1st NCAA Lacrosse Championship - Maryland vs. Cornell @ Hofstra Stadium June 5, 1971

The 1st NCAA Lacrosse Championship was also my first lacrosse game.  Traffic from my home in Queens to Hofstra was heavy.  Cononero II was running in the Belmont Stakes that afternoon for the Triple Crown.  Over 100,000 was expected at Belmont Park in nearby Elmont, NY.

Hofstra had the first "AstroTurf" on a college campus. The AFL's NY Jets had their training camp there.  Only Houston's Astrodome, home of the MLB Astros, had "artificial" turf (i.e. AstroTurf) in pro sports.  Americans were still going to the moon in those days.

Maryland and Cornell's school colors are both Red & White.  Maryland's players were 50/50 - NY/MD and Cornell almost all NYers, but Cornell's star was Canadien Al Rimmer who the Terps could not stop all day.

The Terps were playing catch up all day, but never did catch the "Big Red."  Cornell won 12-6.  Per the scoring I kept, Al Rimmer had 6 goals.  I wanted him deported.

The attendance was reported in the paper at 5,500 or so.  I would have guessed two or three thousand tops.

It was the last time I bought a program for 25 cents.

Maryland 1972 NIT Champions @ Madison Square Garden NYC March 25, 1972

In 1972, the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) meant something.  Only Conference Champions won a spot in the NCAA Tournament (pre-March Madness).  Conference Runner-up teams, Independents (50% of colleges) and local schools came to NYC and gladly accepted an invitation to the NIT.

The 1970-71 Maryland Terps had "experienced" Madison Square Garden (MSG).  The Terps played and beat Seton Hall on Feb 20, 1971. Freshman could not play Varsity sports then.  I met Freshmen Tom McMillen and Len Elmore sitting court side and had them autograph my Maryland press guide. Lefty came over and passed the guide around and had all the players autograph the inside cover.

The Terps invitation to the 1972 NIT was an important accomplishment in Lefty's plan to make Maryland "the UCLA of the East."

The "President" Arrives

"Pep Bands" were not common in MSG.  Eddie Layton played the organ there for 50 years and that was all I knew about music.

The Maryland Pep Band set up early for the first game against St. Joseph's. When Coach Lefty Driesell came out for pre-game warmups, as usual they played "Hail to the Chief."  The uproar that President Nixon was entering took 5 minutes to calm down.

The Terps played well enough to beat St. Joe's that day, then Syracuse and Jacksonville.  Terps drew some boos during the "slow downs" that made North Carolina "four corners" famous - which resulted in the shot clock in college basketball.   Now on to the NIT Championship against Niagara. 

NIT Championship Game - March 25, 1972

The Championship game against the Purple Eagles of Niagara University (Buffalo NY) was on a Saturday afternoon.  The NHL NY Rangers had a home game that night, so the court was placed on top of the ice.  I sat in a floor seat right behind Lefty.  The mats or cloth laid on top of the ice did not keep my feet from being ice cold.

Maryland won its First Championship that day.  Niagara made a good accounting of itself, but the Terps had size and controlled the boards.

After the game I went towards the locker room entrance with my friend Howard (Lefty's business partner).  When a security guard stopped me, Asst Coach George Raveling came over and said to him "that's Lefty's son."  I ran into the locker room. 

The locker room celebration was the realization that Maryland basketball was on the right track.  It took another 30 years for Maryland to complete that journey and Win the NCAA National Championship.  I'm glad I was there for the entire trip.

Maryland Terp Wins Third Annual NYC Marathon - October 1, 1972

On October 1 1972, I was a 16 year old senior at Long Island City HS (Queens NYC).  I wanted to get out for the day and noticed in the NY Times Sports page the NYC Marathon was scheduled in Central Park.  I was active in basketball & gym, so I figured I'll get some exercise.

I put on the prize of my wardrobe, a University of Maryland sweatshirt.  My neighbor, Howard, was Lefty Driesell's business partner in insurance and would occasionally bring athletes down to College Park.  Back then you could only get school apparel at the school, and Howard brought back lots of Maryland stuff.  I was already a devoted Terp.

I took the subway (RR train from Broadway in Astoria) to Central Park.  Registration for the New York City Marathon was in a "Y."  It was $3 to register.  They gave me a locker key, a program, two #265 cards and four small safety pins to put on the numbers (front & back).

I was putting my sweatshirt in the locker when a guy came over, "Do you go to Maryland?"  I said "No...not yet...but I will be...I hope to."  He introduced himself as Shelly, his name was Sheldon Karlin.  He was a U of Maryland student from Silver Spring, MD.

Shelly told me he was on the Maryland Track Team, then his father came over and went into a tirade about Maryland AD Jim Kehoe.  Bottom line, Shelly was caught drinking a beer when the team was at an out of town meet and was suspended from the team.

Shelly & I wished each other luck.

The NYC Marathon was one (1) 2.2 mile lap & four (4) 6 mile laps within Central Park on the outer main path.  The women, there were 10 or so,  start 15 minutes earlier than the men.  When the whistle sounded, all the women sat down.  I was unaware that an "Equality Protest" was planned.  Some news photographers took pictures.  The women wanted to run at the same start as the men.  When the men took off 15 minutes later, the women began their run.  Officially, all the women times include the 15 min they sat down.

Shelly passed me a few times and called over words of encouragement.  I did walk 8 miles that day.  When I got to the finish line (after one lap) and quit, who do you think was coming in for the win?

Sheldon "Shelly" Karlin - a Student from The University of Maryland at College Park MD - hometown Silver Spring MD - Winner of the Third Annual New York City Marathon.

After he hugged his Dad, he came over to me, said "Go Terps!!" as we shook hands.

If you every hear from Shelly, please let him know, I'm Proud to be a Terp too.

**Update Dec 2, 2010 - I received an e-mail from Matthew Karlin that his father, Sheldon, had passed away in July 2000.  My memory of Shelly is watching him crossing the finish line as NYC Marathon Champion & Proud Terp.

Jaguars vs. Titans @ LP Field Nashville TN December 5, 2010 Kickoff Noon

Jacksonville Jaguars travel over the Cumberland River to meet the Tennessee Titans in Music City USA.

Titans games have plenty of tickets available. See below Score the Best Seats - Cheap

Nashville is a fun Road Game Day Trip. If you're coming from Jacksonville, it will require a night in a hotel. 

Nashville is Central Time***Kickoff is Noon

Flights Jacksonville - Nashville - FARE $89 Each Way!

Southwest Airlines goes non-stop to Nashville, however, it will require a night's stay.  That first flight to Nashville doesn't get in until 11:05 am - too late.  But, the 6:25 pm flight back to Jacksonville is PERFECT to get home after the game. 

Several other airlines have various schedules JAX-BNA.  Southwest has the best cancellation policy; should your flight be delayed and you'll miss the game, awful weather or you change your mind.  You can cancel and have Full Credit for one year from purchase for another trip.

Hotels

There are many hotels with Free Airport Transportation for an early Monday departure.

If you're coming in Saturday and flying out after the game, there's a nice variety of downtown hotels.  See below Dinner in Nashville at the Nashville Hilton.  A Perfect Game Day location.

Travel from the Airport (BNA) to Nashville

Nashville MTA has Express Bus Service from the Airport. The #18 Airport/Music City Central departs the airport once an hour, on the :45 hour. 

On the bus, buy an ALL DAY PASS, it costs $4.80.  The fare box on the bus takes credit cards and cash.

Arrival at Music City Central - Bus Terminal

Your Airport Express Bus will arrive in Bay #18 at Music City Central - Bus Terminal

If you don't have time for breakfast, See Getting to LP Field

Breakfast in Music City USA

You'll arrive in Bay #18 at 5 minutes past the hour.  Walk across to Bay #17 - Take Bus #7 Hillsboro - it leaves on the quarter hour.  It's a nice ride through town. 

I heard about a popular restaurant called Pancake Pantry.  When I asked the bus driver about the closest bus stop to it...several riders on the bus said "Go to Fido's"  I went to Fido's, it was excellent, especially their gourmet coffee.  Its a block past Pancake Pantry. This is the Vanderbilt University area.  Lots of students and the typical collegiate atmosphere. Check out both places and pick the best for you.

The bus goes down Broadway and turns on to 21st.  When the bus makes its left turn onto Wedgewood, Your Stop is Wedgewood & 21st Street. Exit the bus.

Walk to the corner, make a left turn onto 21st Street.  Pancake Pantry will be on your left and Fido's one block further down 21st Street on the left.

After Breakfast

Leaving the restaurant, turn right onto 21st Street and walk to the Bus Stop.  Take Bus #7 Hillsboro on 21st back to Music City Central - Bus Terminal.  The bus pulls into Bay #17.

Getting to LP Field- By Bus

At the Bus Terminal:  Which ever one of these buses is ready to leave, get on it, they all go to LP Field:

Bus #4 in Bay #14; Bus #14 in Bay #2; Bus #23 in Bay #12  

In 10 minutes you're through downtown and over the bridge.  The Bus Stop is Woodland & South 1st Street - LP Field.  You'll be right where you need to be.

Season tickets holders have Permit Parking on the north & west sides of stadium. The bus will take you over the Cumberland River, to the north side of LP Field.

Getting to LP Field - Walking

If you are walking around downtown Nashville and decide to walk across the Pedestrian Bridge (at 1st Ave South & Shelby) to LP Field, there are plenty of tickets for sale on the bridge.  Don't bother, unless you want a corner end zone seat.  If you want the best seats, See SCORE THE BEST SEATS - Cheap.

SCORE THE BEST SEATS - Cheap

What you need to know:

At Kickoff (noon), Unused Tickets are Worthless.

Tickets for the Best Seats arrive 30 minutes prior to the Noon Kickoff (11:30 am).

DON'T settle for bad seats.  This is YOUR DAY!  Your team, on the road; your friends will be talking about this game for years to come.

Season Ticket Holders (i.e. Best Seats) have extras or gave them all away to friends, customers and employees. Those great seats are going into the stadium unused...Unless you offer to buy it from the person that have them.  Most people are delighted to get something for it.

A lot of people come to the game with extras and what to decide who is sitting next to them. That is why don't sell them on tickets exchange sites.

Buying extra tickets from a season ticket holder is a Win-Win situation. Thank him/her for selling it to you.

Do NOT buy from Ticket "Scalpers" - The "I need tickets" guys with 10 tickets in their hand.  Some sell fakes & voided tickets.  Season ticket holders don't want anything to do with them.  They would rather "eat" (carrying it unused into the stadium) the ticket...but you're going to help the season ticket holders by buying their tickets.

Season ticket holders don't want to be "embarrassed" by standing outside "hawking" tickets for sale.  But, if they see you're looking to buy a couple of tickets they will ask, "Do you need a ticket?"

The "Face Value" of a ticket means nothing.  The team makes season ticket holders feel good that they paid $75 for something marked $200. It also disappoints them when they sell it for $25.

Never buy "Internet" printed tickets...they've been photo copied 50 times.

What you need to do:

Print up a Seating Chart of LP Field and have it with you. Know what range of sections you want.  Don't bother with end zone seats, between the two 30 yards lines is a good range.

Know what you are willing to pay - $25 a ticket is plenty for this game.  Have CASH READY to buy the tickets.

Dress (your Jags attire is fine) & Act like the guy you would want sitting next to your children at Everbank Field.  Nearly every ticket I bought was next to the people I bought it from.  Nobody wants to sit next to a jerk.

Go to Where The Tickets are - The best seats Come From Permit Parking in Lots G, M on the north side and S, K. M on the west side of LP Field.   You're getting off the bus on Woodland at South 1st Street, Lots G & M are on your right, as you walk towards the stadium. The Gates around the stadium to the right is where to find the best tickets. Put up 1 or 2 fingers (even if you need 4) to let people know you're looking.

The best seats are Fancy, Team Logos, Quality Printed tickets. 

Do NOT bother with "Internet" printed tickets.  If Ticketmaster printed tickets, check the back for printed matter - they should not be blank. Also, the seats won't be good.

Check the tickets for the Section Number, is it in your range?  Ask the seller "Are the seats next to you?  Are they Good?"  If you want the tickets, then offer $25 a ticket.  When the person ask for $100, just tell them that's all the want to pay.  They may take the $25 or look for a better price, but the clock is ticking.  They'll take the $25 and why not?  Its better than nothing.

Enjoy the game and your Great Seats.

After the Game

Bus back to town - The #4, #14 & #23 Bus Stop on Woodland heading towards the bridge, will take you back downtown.  I would get off at Union & 5th Ave N. Walk on 5th Ave towards Broadway - Welcome to Music City.  Plenty of Restaurants & Bars.  If you don't exit the bus at Union & 5th, you'll start at Music City Central - Bus Terminal, an extra 3 blocks walk to Broadway.

Pedestrian Bridge on the south end of LP Field going across the Cumberland River offers beautiful views.  When you get over the bridge; you will be at 1st Ave S & Shelby (Riverfront Park is on your right).  Walk one block to your right and up Broadway.  Enjoy your visit to Music City USA

Dinner in Nashville

You'll probably find a fine restaurant & bar on Broadway.  I'm a sports fan.  It took two trips to Nashville before I found where the "locals" go after the game.  The Best Sports Bar in town.

The Nashville Hilton located off Broadway on 4th Ave South.  Coming up Broadway, turn left at 4th Avenue, go a short block, turn right at McGavrock St.

"Sports Grill" at the Hilton. Has 35 HDTVs, long bar, high tops & tables...food & drink specials.  Many Titans fans go there to catch the afternoon games.  The food was good and the atmosphere 100% Football.  There is a relaxing lobby with country music, smaller lounges inside as well.  Also, your ride to the airport leaves from outside the Hilton.

Return to the Airport

The #18 Bus Airport Express  will stop on 4th Ave S & McGavorock - Flag It Down.  Walk out of the Hilton and make a left to 4th Ave S.  Taxis are waiting at the Hilton a few feet away, if you're running late.

The Bus comes there at approx 20 minutes past the hour.  The 8:20 pm bus, is the last one on Sunday night.  Make sure you "Flag Down" the bus.

The Bus will get you to Nashville Airport in 20 minutes.

Have a safe trip home

Eagles vs Titans @ LP Field, Nashville TN Oct 24, 2010 Kickoff Noon

Philadelphia Eagles travel over the Cumberland River to meet the Tennessee Titans in Music City USA.

Titans games have plenty of tickets available. See below Score the Best Seats - Cheap

Nashville is a fun Road Game Day Trip. If you're coming from Philadelphia, it probably will require a night in a hotel. 

Nashville is Central Time***Kickoff is Noon

Flights Philadelphia - Nashville
Southwest Airlines goes non-stop to Nashville, however, it will require a night's stay.  Several other airlines have various schedules PHL-BNA.  Southwest has the best cancellation policy; should your flight be delayed and you'll miss the game, awful weather or you change your mind.  You can cancel and have Full Credit for one year from purchase for another trip.

Hotels

There are many hotels with Free Airport Transportation for an early Monday departure.

If you're coming in Saturday and flying out after the game, there's a nice variety of downtown hotels.  See below Dinner in Nashville at the Nashville Hilton.  A Perfect Game Day location.

Travel from the Airport (BNA) to Nashville

Nashville MTA has Express Bus Service from the Airport. The #18 Airport/Music City Central departs the airport once an hour, on the :45 hour. 

On the bus, buy an ALL DAY PASS, it costs $4.80.  The fare box on the bus takes credit cards and cash.

Arrival at Music City Central - Bus Terminal

Your Airport Express Bus will arrive in Bay #18 at Music City Central - Bus Terminal

If you don't have time for breakfast, See Getting to LP Field

Breakfast in Music City USA

You'll arrive in Bay #18 at 5 minutes past the hour.  Walk across to Bay #17 - Take Bus #7 Hillsboro - it leaves on the quarter hour.  It's a nice ride through town. 

I heard about a popular restaurant called Pancake Pantry.  When I asked the bus driver about the closest bus stop to it...several riders on the bus said "Go to Fido's"  I went to Fido's, it was excellent, especially their gourmet coffee.  Its a block past Pancake Pantry. This is the Vanderbilt University area.  Lots of students and the typical collegiate atmosphere. Check out both places and pick the best for you.

The bus goes down Broadway and turns on to 21st.  When the bus makes its left turn onto Wedgewood, Your Stop is Wedgewood & 21st Street. Exit the bus.

Walk to the corner, make a left turn onto 21st Street.  Pancake Pantry will be on your left and Fido's one block further down 21st Street on the left.

After Breakfast

Leaving the restaurant, turn right onto 21st Street and walk to the Bus Stop.  Take Bus #7 Hillsboro on 21st back to Music City Central - Bus Terminal.  The bus pulls into Bay #17.

Getting to LP Field- By Bus

At the Bus Terminal:  Which ever one of these buses is ready to leave, get on it, they all go to LP Field:

Bus #4 in Bay #14; Bus #14 in Bay #2; Bus #23 in Bay #12  

In 10 minutes you're through downtown and over the bridge.  The Bus Stop is Woodland & South 1st Street - LP Field.  You'll be right where you need to be.

Season tickets holders have Permit Parking on the north & west sides of stadium. The bus will take you over the Cumberland River, to the north side of LP Field.

Getting to LP Field - Walking

If you are walking around downtown Nashville and decide to walk across the Pedestrian Bridge (at 1st Ave South & Shelby) to LP Field, there are plenty of tickets for sale on the bridge.  Don't bother, unless you want a corner end zone seat.  If you want the best seats, See SCORE THE BEST SEATS - Cheap.

SCORE THE BEST SEATS - Cheap

What you need to know:

At Kickoff (noon), Unused Tickets are Worthless.

Tickets for the Best Seats arrive 30 minutes prior to the Noon Kickoff (11:30 am).

DON'T settle for bad seats.  This is YOUR DAY!  Your team, on the road; your friends will be talking about this game for years to come.

Season Ticket Holders (i.e. Best Seats) have extras or gave them all away to friends, customers and employees. Those great seats are going into the stadium unused...Unless you offer to buy it from the person that have them.  Most people are delighted to get something for it.

A lot of people come to the game with extras and what to decide who is sitting next to them. That is why don't sell them on tickets exchange sites.

Buying extra tickets from a season ticket holder is a Win-Win situation. Thank him/her for selling it to you.

Do NOT buy from Ticket "Scalpers" - The "I need tickets" guys with 10 tickets in their hand.  Some sell fakes & voided tickets.  Season ticket holders don't want anything to do with them.  They would rather "eat" (carrying it unused into the stadium) the ticket...but you're going to help the season ticket holders by buying their tickets.

Season ticket holders don't want to be "embarrassed" by standing outside "hawking" tickets for sale.  But, if they see you're looking to buy a couple of tickets they will ask, "Do you need a ticket?"

The "Face Value" of a ticket means nothing.  The team makes season ticket holders feel good that they paid $75 for something marked $200. It also disappoints them when they sell it for $25.

Never buy "Internet" printed tickets...they've been photo copied 50 times.

What you need to do:

Print up a Seating Chart of LP Field and have it with you. Know what range of sections you want.  Don't bother with end zone seats, between the two 30 yards lines is a good range.

Know what you are willing to pay - $25 a ticket is plenty for this game.  Have CASH READY to buy the tickets.

Dress (your Eagles attire is fine) & Act like the guy you would want sitting next to your children at Lincoln Financial Field.  Nearly every ticket I bought was next to the people I bought it from.  Nobody wants to sit next to a jerk.

Go to Where The Tickets are - The best seats Come From Permit Parking in Lots G, M on the north side and S, K. M on the west side of LP Field.   You're getting off the bus on Woodland at South 1st Street, Lots G & M are on your right, as you walk towards the stadium. The Gates around the stadium to the right is where to find the best tickets. Put up 1 or 2 fingers (even if you need 4) to let people know you're looking.

The best seats are Fancy, Team Logos, Quality Printed tickets. 

Do NOT bother with "Internet" printed tickets.  If Ticketmaster printed tickets, check the back for printed matter - they should not be blank. Also, the seats won't be good.

Check the tickets for the Section Number, is it in your range?  Ask the seller "Are the seats next to you?  Are they Good?"  If you want the tickets, then offer $25 a ticket.  When the person ask for $100, just tell them that's all the want to pay.  They may take the $25 or look for a better price, but the clock is ticking.  They'll take the $25 and why not?  Its better than nothing.

Enjoy the game and your Great Seats.

After the Game

Bus back to town - The #4, #14 & #23 Bus Stop on Woodland heading towards the bridge, will take you back downtown.  I would get off at Union & 5th Ave N. Walk on 5th Ave towards Broadway - Welcome to Music City.  Plenty of Restaurants & Bars.  If you don't exit the bus at Union & 5th, you'll start at Music City Central - Bus Terminal, an extra 3 blocks walk to Broadway.

Pedestrian Bridge on the south end of LP Field going across the Cumberland River offers beautiful views.  When you get over the bridge; you will be at 1st Ave S & Shelby (Riverfront Park is on your right).  Walk one block to your right and up Broadway.  Enjoy your visit to Music City USA

Dinner in Nashville

You'll probably find a fine restaurant & bar on Broadway.  I'm a sports fan.  It took two trips to Nashville before I found where the "locals" go after the game.  The Best Sports Bar in town.

The Nashville Hilton located off Broadway on 4th Ave South.  Coming up Broadway, turn left at 4th Avenue, go a short block, turn right at McGavrock St.

"Sports Grill" at the Hilton. Has 35 HDTVs, long bar, high tops & tables...food & drink specials.  Many Titans fans go there to catch the afternoon games.  The food was good and the atmosphere 100% Football.  There is a relaxing lobby with country music, smaller lounges inside as well.  Also, your ride to the airport leaves from outside the Hilton.

Return to the Airport

The #18 Bus Airport Express  will stop on 4th Ave S & McGavorock - Flag It Down.  Walk out of the Hilton and make a left to 4th Ave S.  Taxis are waiting at the Hilton a few feet away, if you're running late.

The Bus comes there at approx 20 minutes past the hour.  The 8:20 pm bus, is the last one on Sunday night.  Make sure you "Flag Down" the bus.

The Bus will get you to Nashville Airport in 20 minutes.

Have a safe trip home

Buccaneers vs. Ravens @ M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore MD Nov 28, 2010 Kickoff 4:15 pm

***Kickoff Time Changed to 4:15 pm***

**Ravens & Bucs Fans - Maryland MTA advises me - Last Light Rail Train Leaves Hamburg Street (Stadium) Station - One Hour After the Game Ends**

Baltimore's M&T Bank Stadium is simple to travel to by Public Transit.  On the Sunday of Thanksgiving Weekend, public transit is an excellent alternative to the traffic on Baltimore's Beltway & I-95.

Thanksgving Weekend, if you're visiting family and friends in the area, catching your Bucs on the road is a lot fun.  Have a Great Day in Baltimore.

The Ravens usually sell out, but there are thousands of tickets for sale on Ticketmaster & other sports ticket sites.  On game day, all these tickets show up at the stadium.  See below Score The Best Seats - Cheap.

Hotels

On the weekend, there are plenty of affordable hotels around the airport; BWI Business (Hotel) District.  They all have free transportation to/from the Airport & Light Rail.  All the downtown Baltimore hotels are walking distance to M&T Bank Stadium.  Take taxis at night - from dinner back to your hotel.  This will be expensive if you're at an airport hotel.  Lots of "local" restaurants near the airport hotels.  Ask the staff for suggestions - here's mine.

Best Crab Cakes in Baltimore

I'm going to lose a lot of friends in Baltimore, but G & M Lounge & Restaurant...and its near the airport. Get the double crab cake platter BROILED.  Thank me later.

Light Rail - From & To BWI Airport:

BWI Airport (now Officially called Thurgood Marshall-Baltimore Washington Intl) has direct public transit (Light Rail) to M&T Bank Stadium. The Light Rail is located on the Baggage (Ground Transportation) Level at the FAR END of the Terminal, past the International Gates.  If you arrive by Southwest Airlines (Gates A & B) its a 10 minute walk around the horseshoe shaped terminal.  Its a shorter walk from other airlines using Gates, C, D & E.

Take the Northbound Train destination Hunt Valley.  The MTA just started Southbound service to Cromwell Bridge Nov 24th from BWI Airport.

The First Light Rail train leaving BWI on Sunday is 10:40 am. Arrives at M&T Bank Stadium at 11:05 am.  Go Below To Light Rail - Information.

**Maryland MTA has advised me - Last Train will Leave Hamburg St - 1 Hour After the End of the Game**

The Last Light Rail train returning to BWI on Sunday leaves One Hour after the end of the game. There are two trains going Southbound towards the airport; BWI Airport & Cromwell Bridge.  When returning to BWI, use the BWI Airport Train, otherwise you will have to get off in a desolate (and potentially dangerous area) to wait for the BWI Airport Train. 

The game should end at 7:30 pm or so.  If you stay downtown for dinner, take a taxi back to your hotel.  The Light Rail will NOT be running when you finish dinner.

Traveling By Amtrak:

Baltimore's Penn Station (Amtrak) has "transfer" access to M&T Bank Stadium.  When you arrive upstairs in the "Waiting Room" (looks like a 1930s movie set), pass the Information Board and Turn Right.  Down the Stairs is the Light Rail Station.  Go Below to  Light Rail - Information & Penn Station Transfer.

BWI Airport Station requires a Shuttle Bus to BWI Airport.  It can be done (follow From BWI Airport), but I would suggest taking train to Penn Station-Baltimore.

Traveling From Wash DC & VA

MARC (commuter train) does NOT operate on Sundays.

From Wash DC Greenbelt (Green Line) Metro Station, get on the B-30 Bus.  The fare is $6 cash and DC Metro "SmarTrip Card" is accepted.  Take the B-30 Bus to BWI Airports 2nd Stop (next to Light Rail Station).  Follow Light Rail - Information Below.  NOTE:  The First Light Rail Train on Sunday to Baltimore is 10:40 am.  After the Game - Last Light Rail train back to BWI Airport leaves approx 8:05 pm.

Traveling From the North (PA, DE)

**Maryland MTA has advised me - Last Train will Leave Hamburg St - 1 Hour After the End of the Game**

The Light Rail goes as far North as Hunt Valley, MD, I-83 Exit Shawan Road (East).  There is free MTA parking at the train station. Wegmans and other restaurants are right there.  Its a great place to eat before or after the game.  First train leaves Hunt Valley on Sundays at 10:30 am.  Go Below to Light Rail - Information.

Metro Trains Run All Day until Midnight, leaves from as far North as Owings Mills, MD.  Use Owings Mills Blvd Exit of I-795.  Follow signs to Metro. The Metro has plenty of Free Parking.  See below Metro - Information. 

**The Ravens Express Bus from Owings Mills Metro Parking Lot (and everywhere else) was discontinued several years ago. 

Light Rail - Information

You Must Buy Your Fare Card  Before You Board Train.  All Day Pass is $3.50 (this is 20 cents more than a round trip ticket, Good for Light Rail, Metro & Bus, Buy it!)...senior & disabled fare is $1.20.  Maryland MTA doesn't have "Transfers." The machines take cash and credit cards. DC Metro SmarTrip Card & Maryland MTA Charm Card can be used, tap the fare "target" before you board.  If you use a large bill, it will give you change in dollar coins (pain).

M&T Bank Stadium Stop is Hamburg Street. You'll have an extra 15 minute walk to the stadium through all the parking lots, if you get off at Camden Yards (Orioles Park).

Penn Station Transfer:

**After the Game - Last Light Rail from Camden Yards to Penn Station leaves Approx 8:10 pm**

Penn Station to Camden Yards is a "spike" line in the Light Rail System.  First train leaves on Sundays at 10:14 am.  Exit the Penn Station train at the first stop (U of Baltimore) and wait for next southbound train (either BWI or Cromwell Bridge).  This will take you to Hamburg Street (Stadium Stop).  If you take the Penn Station train to its last stop, Camden Yards, you can walk the extra 15 minutes through the parking lots to M&T Bank Stadium.

Metro - Information

You Must Use a Fare Card To Enter the Turnstile.  All Day Pass is $3.50 (this is 20 cents over a round trip ticket, Good for Metro, Light Rail & Buses...Buy It!)...senior & disabled fare is $1.20.  The machines take credit cards.  If you use cash, it will give you change in dollar coins (pain).

Ride Rear Car of Train, Get off at Charles Center. Follow the crowd towards the stadium, it's a 20 - 25 minutes walk to M&T Bank Stadium from Charles Center..  Many fans get off at State Center & take the Light Rail (on Howard Street - 1 block walk) to Hamburg Street (Stadium stop).  This is a good reason to buy an All Day Pass, Maryland MTA does NOT have "transfers."

SCORE THE BEST SEATS - Cheap

What you need to know:

At Kickoff (4:15 pm), Unused Tickets are Worthless.

Thanksgiving Weekend - there will be a lot of extra tickets for this game.  Lots of No Shows.

Tickets for the Best Seats arrive 30-45  minutes prior to the 4:15 pm Kickoff.

DON'T settle for bad seats.  This is YOUR DAY!  Your team, on the road; your friends will be talking about this game for years to come.

Season Ticket Holders (i.e. Best Seats) have extras or gave them all away to friends, customers and employees. Those great seats are going into the stadium unused...Unless you offer to buy it from the person that have them.  Most people are delighted to get something for it.

A lot of people come to the game with extras and what to decide who is sitting next to them.  That's why they don't sell it on exchange sites.

Buying extra tickets from a season ticket holder is a Win-Win situation. Thank them for selling it to you.

Do NOT buy from Ticket "Scalpers" - The "I need tickets" guys with 10 tickets in their hand.  Some sell fakes & voided tickets.  Season ticket holders don't want anything to do with them.  They would rather "eat" (carrying it unused into the stadium) the ticket...but you're going to help the season ticket holders by buying their tickets.

Season ticket holders don't want to be "embarrassed" by standing outside "hawking" tickets for sale.  But, if they see you're looking to buy a couple of tickets they will ask, "Do you need a ticket?"

The "Face Value" of a ticket means nothing.  The team makes season ticket holders feel good that they paid $75 for something marked $150. It also disappoints them when they sell it for $25.

Never buy an "Internet" printed ticket...they've been photo copied 50 times.

What you need to do:

Print up a Seating Chart of M&T Bank Stadium and have it with you. Know what range of sections you want.  Don't bother with end zone seats, between the two 30 yards lines is a good range.

Know what you are willing to pay - $25 a ticket is plenty for this game.  Have CASH READY to buy the tickets.

Dress (your Bucs attire is fine) & Act like the guy you would want sitting next to your children at Raymond James Stadium.  Nearly every ticket I bought was next to the people I bought it from.  Nobody wants to sit next to a jerk.

Go to Where The Tickets are - The best seats Come From Permit Parking on the north side of the Stadium.   You're getting off the Light Rail at Hamburg Street, go to your right, as you walk towards the stadium. The Gates around the stadium to the right is where to find the best tickets. Its a Big Plaza with lots of people.  Put up 1 or 2 fingers (even if you need 4) to let people know you're looking.

If you came to the stadium via the Metro or you're walking through the parking lots, there are plenty of tickets available for the corner end zone.  Go to the Big Plaza, straight ahead, in front of the stadium for the best seats.

The best seats are Purple, Fancy Design, Team Logos, Quality Printed tickets. 

Do NOT buy "Internet" printed tickets.  If Ticketmaster printed tickets, check the back for printed matter - they should not be blank.  Also, they won't be good seats.

Check the tickets for the Section Number, is it in your range?  Ask the seller "Are the seats next to you?  Are they Good?"  If you want the tickets, then offer $25 a ticket.  When the person ask for $100, just tell them that's all the want to pay.  They may take the $25 or look for a better price, but the clock is ticking.  They'll take the $25 and why not?  Its better than nothing.

Enjoy the game and your Great Seats.

After the Game - Federal Hill, Harborplace and beyond

M&T Bank Stadium is a few blocks from historic Federal Hill.  The "Federal" troops lived in the narrow homes during the Civil War.

There are many restaurants and bars on Charles & Light Streets.  No chains, all "local" places. 

Out of the stadium, walk past (under) the Light Rail (east side of stadium) on Hamburg Street to Light Street.  Charles Street is one block further on Hamburg. 

Harborplace, five blocks east of the stadium, has the chains & tourist stops.  Walk towards Orioles Park, through the stadium parking lots on the north side.  Make a right turn on Conway Street. It comes to an end at Harborplace.

Little Italy, Fells Point, Canton neighborhoods will require a taxi ride from the Stadium area.  Not very expensive, but this is a "Going Green" Blog...haha.

You can go back on to the Light Rail for the ride back to the airport, if you leave right after the game ends.  If you stay downtown for dinner, the light rail will not be running and you will need a taxi to get back to your hotel or the airport.

Bills vs. Ravens @ M&T Bank Stadium - Baltimore MD October 24, 2010 Kickoff 1 pm

Baltimore's M&T Bank Stadium is simple to travel to by Public Transit. 

It's a fun Day Trip from Buffalo, perfect for a Bills Road Game. M&T Bank is headquartered in Buffalo, come see where your money went.

The Ravens usually sell out, but there are thousands of tickets for sale on Ticketmaster & other sports ticket sites.  On game day, all these tickets show up at the stadium.  See below Score The Best Seats - Cheap.

Hotels

On the weekend, there are plenty of affordable hotels around the airport; BWI Business (Hotel) District.  They all have free transportation to/from the Airport & Light Rail.  All the downtown Baltimore hotels are walking distance to M&T Bank Stadium.  Take taxis at night - from dinner back to your hotel.  This will be expensive if you're at an airport hotel.  Lots of "local" restaurants near the airport hotels.  Ask the staff for suggestions - here's mine.

Best Crab Cakes in Baltimore

I'm going to lose a lot of friends in Baltimore, but G & M Lounge & Restaurant...and its near the airport. Get the double crab cake platter BROILED.  Thank me later.

Light Rail - From & To BWI Airport:

BWI Airport (now Officially called Thurgood Marshall-Baltimore Washington Intl) has direct public transit (Light Rail) to M&T Bank Stadium. The Light Rail is located on the Baggage (Ground Transportation) Level at the FAR END of the Terminal, past the International Gates.  If you arrive by Southwest Airlines (Gates A & B) its a 10 minute walk around the horseshoe shaped terminal.  Its a shorter walk from other airlines using Gates, C, D & E.

The First Light Rail train leaving BWI on Sunday is 10:40 am. Arrives at M&T Bank Stadium at 11:05 am.  Go Below To Light Rail - Information.

The Last Light Rail train returning to BWI on Sunday leaves downtown stops approx 8:15 pm.  There are two trains going southbound towards the airport; BWI Airport & Cromwell Bridge.  When returning to BWI, use the BWI Airport Train, otherwise you will have to get off in a desolate (and potentially dangerous area) to wait for the BWI Airport Train.

Traveling By Amtrak:

Baltimore's Penn Station (Amtrak) has "transfer" access to M&T Bank Stadium.  When you arrive upstairs in the "Waiting Room" (looks like a 1930s movie set), pass the Information Board and Turn Right.  Down the Stairs is the Light Rail Station.  Go Below to  Light Rail - Information & Penn Station Transfer.

BWI Airport Station requires a Shuttle Bus to BWI Airport.  It can be done (follow From BWI Airport), but I would suggest taking train to Penn Station-Baltimore.

Traveling From Wash DC & VA

MARC (commuter train) does NOT operate on Sundays.

From Wash DC Greenbelt (Green Line) Metro Station, get on the B-30 Bus.  The fare is $6 cash and DC Metro "SmarTrip Card" is accepted.  Take the B-30 Bus to BWI Airports 2nd Stop (next to Light Rail Station).  Follow Light Rail - Information Below.  NOTE:  The First Light Rail Train on Sunday to Baltimore is 10:40 am.

Traveling From the North (PA, DE)

The Light Rail goes as far North as Hunt Valley, MD, I-83 Exit Shawan Road (East).  There is free MTA parking at the train station. Wegmans and other restaurants are right there.  Its a great place to eat before or after the game.  First train leaves Hunt Valley on Sundays at 10:30 am.  Go Below to Light Rail - Information.

Metro Trains Run All Day, leaves from as far North as Owings Mills, MD.  Use Owings Mills Blvd Exit of I-795.  Follow signs to Metro. The Metro has plenty of Free Parking.  See below Metro - Information. 

**The Ravens Express Bus from Owings Mills Metro Parking Lot (and everywhere else) was discontinued several years ago. 

Light Rail - Information

You Must Buy Your Fare Card  Before You Board Train.  All Day Pass is $3.50 (this is 20 cents more than a round trip ticket, Good for Light Rail, Metro & Bus, Buy it!)...senior & disabled fare is $1.20.  Maryland MTA doesn't have "Transfers." The machines take cash and credit cards. DC Metro SmarTrip Card & Maryland MTA Charm Card can be used, tap the fare "target" before you board.  If you use a large bill, it will give you change in dollar coins (pain).

M&T Bank Stadium Stop is Hamburg Street. You'll have an extra 15 minute walk to the stadium through all the parking lots, if you get off at Camden Yards (Orioles Park).

Penn Station Transfer:

Penn Station to Camden Yards is a "spike" line in the Light Rail System.  First train leaves on Sundays at 10:14 am.  Exit the Penn Station train at the first stop (U of Baltimore) and wait for next southbound train (either BWI or Cromwell Bridge).  This will take you to Hamburg Street (Stadium Stop).  If you take the Penn Station train to its last stop, Camden Yards, you can walk the extra 15 minutes through the parking lots to M&T Bank Stadium.

Metro - Information

You Must Use a Fare Card To Enter the Turnstile.  All Day Pass is $3.50 (this is 20 cents over a round trip ticket, Good for Metro, Light Rail & Buses...Buy It!)...senior & disabled fare is $1.20.  The machines take credit cards.  If you use cash, it will give you change in dollar coins (pain).

Ride Rear Car of Train, Get off at Charles Center. Follow the crowd towards the stadium, it's a 20 - 25 minutes walk to M&T Bank Stadium from Charles Center..  Many fans get off at State Center & take the Light Rail (on Howard Street - 1 block walk) to Hamburg Street (Stadium stop).  This is a good reason to buy an All Day Pass, Maryland MTA does NOT have "transfers."

SCORE THE BEST SEATS - Cheap

What you need to know:

At Kickoff (1 pm), Unused Tickets are Worthless.

Tickets for the Best Seats arrive 30-45  minutes prior to the 1 pm Kickoff (12:15 - 12:30 pm).

DON'T settle for bad seats.  This is YOUR DAY!  Your team, on the road; your friends will be talking about this game for years to come.

Season Ticket Holders (i.e. Best Seats) have extras or gave them all away to friends, customers and employees. Those great seats are going into the stadium unused...Unless you offer to buy it from the person that have them.  Most people are delighted to get something for it.

A lot of people come to the game with extras and what to decide who is sitting next to them.  That's why they don't sell it on exchange sites.

Buying extra tickets from a season ticket holder is a Win-Win situation. Thank them for selling it to you.

Do NOT buy from Ticket "Scalpers" - The "I need tickets" guys with 10 tickets in their hand.  Some sell fakes & voided tickets.  Season ticket holders don't want anything to do with them.  They would rather "eat" (carrying it unused into the stadium) the ticket...but you're going to help the season ticket holders by buying their tickets.

Season ticket holders don't want to be "embarrassed" by standing outside "hawking" tickets for sale.  But, if they see you're looking to buy a couple of tickets they will ask, "Do you need a ticket?"

The "Face Value" of a ticket means nothing.  The team makes season ticket holders feel good that they paid $75 for something marked $150. It also disappoints them when they sell it for $25.

Never buy an "Internet" printed ticket...they've been photo copied 50 times.

What you need to do:

Print up a Seating Chart of M&T Bank Stadium and have it with you. Know what range of sections you want.  Don't bother with end zone seats, between the two 30 yards lines is a good range.

Know what you are willing to pay - $25 a ticket is plenty for this game.  Have CASH READY to buy the tickets.

Dress (your Bills attire is fine) & Act like the guy you would want sitting next to your children at Ralph Wilson Stadium.  Nearly every ticket I bought was next to the people I bought it from.  Nobody wants to sit next to a jerk.

Go to Where The Tickets are - The best seats Come From Permit Parking on the north side of the Stadium.   You're getting off the Light Rail at Hamburg Street, go to your right, as you walk towards the stadium. The Gates around the stadium to the right is where to find the best tickets. Its a Big Plaza with lots of people.  Put up 1 or 2 fingers (even if you need 4) to let people know you're looking.

If you came to the stadium via the Metro or you're walking through the parking lots, there are plenty of tickets available for the corner end zone.  Go to the Big Plaza, straight ahead, in front of the stadium for the best seats.

The best seats are Purple, Fancy Design, Team Logos, Quality Printed tickets. 

Do NOT buy "Internet" printed tickets.  If Ticketmaster printed tickets, check the back for printed matter - they should not be blank.  Also, they won't be good seats.

Check the tickets for the Section Number, is it in your range?  Ask the seller "Are the seats next to you?  Are they Good?"  If you want the tickets, then offer $25 a ticket.  When the person ask for $100, just tell them that's all the want to pay.  They may take the $25 or look for a better price, but the clock is ticking.  They'll take the $25 and why not?  Its better than nothing.

Enjoy the game and your Great Seats.

After the Game - Federal Hill, Harborplace and beyond

M&T Bank Stadium is a few blocks from historic Federal Hill.  The "Federal" troops lived in the narrow homes during the Civil War.

There are many restaurants and bars on Charles & Light Streets.  No chains, all "local" places. 

Out of the stadium, walk past (under) the Light Rail (east side of stadium) on Hamburg Street to Light Street.  Charles Street is one block further on Hamburg. 

Harborplace, five blocks east of the stadium, has the chains & tourist stops.  Walk towards Orioles Park, through the stadium parking lots on the north side.  Make a right turn on Conway Street. It comes to an end at Harborplace.

Little Italy, Fells Point, Canton neighborhoods will require a taxi ride from the Stadium area.  Not very expensive, but this is a "Going Green" Blog...haha.

If it's daytime, go back to the Light Rail for the ride back to the airport.  At night, take taxis from wherever you are to your hotel.

Jesse Owens - Madison Square Garden NYC - February 18, 1972

In 1972, the Soviet Union and Eastern European countries were behind "the iron curtain".  My dad, a salesman for a dress manufacturer was friends with 1948 Olympic Gold Medalist and former NY Knick Ray Lump. Ray was Director of Meets for the New York Athletic Club (NYAC). The NYAC sponsored major track & field meets. 

Ray would bring Soviet, Polish, East German and other Eastern European athletes to buy dresses for their wives or girlfriends from my father. Ray invited my dad to the 1972 US Olympic Invitational Meet at The Garden.. 

We went to "Will Call," no tickets were there.  My father asked someone to call Ray.  He came down to apologize and escorted us to a VIP box on the garden's floor and put an "Official" pass on me.

Early in the meet, my father pointed to a man standing in front of the box, "There's Jesse Owens...go meet him."  I went up to him and said "Hi."

Jesse Owens immediately offered his hand and I shook it.  He asked my name and where I went to school.  I asked for his autograph, which he was glad to give.  I talked about my desire to attend Maryland.  Dr. Delano Meriwether,  Herb Washington and Bob Beamon came over and Mr. Owens introduced me as his friend.  He asked them to autograph my program and they did.

Then Mr. Owens had to go, shook my hand again and wished me luck at Maryland.

Dr. Meriwether and Herb Washington finished in a "dead heat" for First Place in the 50-Meter Dash, "The Jesse Owens Sprint."  It was a Great Night.

Dolphins vs Ravens @ M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore MD Nov 7, 2010 Kickoff 1 pm

Baltimore's M&T Bank Stadium is simple to travel to by Public Transit.  Its a Great Day Trip if you're in the area.  If you're coming in for the game, here's what you need to know.

The Ravens usually sell out, but there are thousands of tickets for sale on Ticketmaster & other sports ticket sites.  On game day, all these tickets show up at the stadium.  See below Score The Best Seats - Cheap.

Hotels

On the weekend, there are plenty of affordable hotels around the airport; BWI Business (Hotel) District.  They all have free transportation to/from the Airport & Light Rail.  All the downtown Baltimore hotels are walking distance to M&T Bank Stadium.  Take taxis at night - from dinner back to your hotel.  This will be expensive if you're at an airport hotel.  Lots of "local" restaurants near the airport hotels.  Ask the staff for suggestions - but here's mine.

Best Crab Cakes in Baltimore

I'm going to lose a lot of friends in Baltimore, but G & M Lounge & Restaurant...and its near the airport. Get the double crab cake platter BROILED.  Thank me later.

Light Rail From & To BWI Airport:

BWI Airport (now Officially called Thurgood Marshall-Baltimore Washington Intl) has direct public transit (Light Rail) to M&T Bank Stadium. The Light Rail is located on the Baggage (Ground Transportation) Level at the FAR END of the Terminal, past the International Gates.  If you arrive by Southwest Airlines (Gates A & B) its a 10 minute walk around the horseshoe shaped terminal.  Its a shorter walk from other airlines using Gates, C, D & E.

The First Light Rail train leaving BWI on Sunday is 10:40 am. Arrives at M&T Bank Stadium at 11:05 am.  Go Below To Light Rail - Information.

The Last Light Rail train returning to BWI on Sunday leaves downtown stops approx 8:15 pm.  There are two trains going southbound towards the airport; BWI Airport & Cromwell Bridge.  When returning to BWI, use the BWI Airport Train, otherwise you will have to get off in a desolate (and potentially dangerous area) to wait for the BWI Airport Train.

Traveling By Amtrak:

Baltimore's Penn Station (Amtrak) has "transfer" access to M&T Bank Stadium.  When you arrive upstairs in the "Waiting Room" (looks like a 1930s movie set), pass the Information Board and Turn Right.  Down the Stairs is the Light Rail Station.  Go Below to  Light Rail - Information & Penn Station Transfer.

BWI Airport Station requires a Shuttle Bus to BWI Airport.  It can be done (follow From BWI Airport), but I would suggest taking train to Penn Station-Baltimore.

Traveling From Wash DC & VA

MARC (commuter train) does NOT operate on Sundays.

From Wash DC Greenbelt (Green Line) Metro Station, get on the B-30 Bus.  The fare is $6 cash and DC Metro "SmarTrip Card" is accepted.  Take the B-30 Bus to BWI Airports 2nd Stop (next to Light Rail Station).  Follow Light Rail - Information Below.  NOTE:  The First Light Rail Train on Sunday to Baltimore is 10:40 am.

Traveling From the North (PA, DE)

The Light Rail goes as far North as Hunt Valley, MD, I-83 Exit Shawan Road (East).  There is free MTA parking at the train station. Wegmans and other restaurants are right there.  Its a great place to eat before or after the game.  First train leaves Hunt Valley on Sundays at 10:30 am.  Go Below to Light Rail - Information.

Metro Trains Run All Day, leaves from as far North as Owings Mills, MD.  Use Owings Mills Blvd Exit of I-795.  Follow signs to Metro. The Metro has plenty of Free Parking.  See below Metro - Information. 

**The Ravens Express Bus from Owings Mills Metro Parking Lot (and everywhere else) was discontinued several years ago. 

Light Rail - Information

You Must Buy Your Fare Card  Before You Board Train.  All Day Pass is $3.50 (this is 20 cents more than a round trip ticket, Good for Light Rail, Metro & Bus, Buy it!)...senior & disabled fare is $1.20.  Maryland MTA doesn't have "Transfers." The machines take cash and credit cards. DC Metro SmarTrip Card & Maryland MTA Charm Card can be used, tap the fare "target" before you board.  If you use a large bill, it will give you change in dollar coins (pain).

M&T Bank Stadium Stop is Hamburg Street. You'll have an extra 15 minute walk to the stadium through all the parking lots, if you get off at Camden Yards (Orioles Park).

Penn Station Transfer:

Penn Station to Camden Yards is a "spike" line in the Light Rail System.  First train leaves on Sundays at 10:14 am.  Exit the Penn Station train at the first stop (U of Baltimore) and wait for next southbound train (either BWI or Cromwell Bridge).  This will take you to Hamburg Street (Stadium Stop).  If you take the Penn Station train to its last stop, Camden Yards, you can walk the extra 15 minutes through the parking lots to M&T Bank Stadium.

Metro - Information

You Must Use a Fare Card To Enter the Turnstile.  All Day Pass is $3.50 (this is 20 cents over a round trip ticket, Good for Metro, Light Rail & Buses...Buy It!)...senior & disabled fare is $1.20.  The machines take credit cards.  If you use cash, it will give you change in dollar coins (pain).

Ride Rear Car of Train, Get off at Charles Center. Follow the crowd towards the stadium, it's a 20 - 25 minutes walk to M&T Bank Stadium from Charles Center..  Many fans get off at State Center & take the Light Rail (on Howard Street - 1 block walk) to Hamburg Street (Stadium stop).  This is a good reason to buy an All Day Pass, Maryland MTA does NOT have "transfers."

SCORE THE BEST SEATS - Cheap

What you need to know:

At Kickoff (1 pm), Unused Tickets are Worthless.

Tickets for the Best Seats arrive 30-45  minutes prior to the 1 pm Kickoff (12:15 - 12:30 pm).

DON'T settle for bad seats.  This is YOUR DAY!  Your team, on the road; your friends will be talking about this game for years to come.

Season Ticket Holders (i.e. Best Seats) have extras or gave them all away to friends, customers and employees. Those great seats are going into the stadium unused...Unless you offer to buy it from the person that have them.  Most people are delighted to get something for it.

A lot of people come to the game with extras and what to decide who is sitting next to them.  That's why they don't sell it on exchange sites.

Buying extra tickets from a season ticket holder is a Win-Win situation. Thank them for selling it to you.

Do NOT buy from Ticket "Scalpers" - The "I need tickets" guys with 10 tickets in their hand.  Some sell fakes & voided tickets.  Season ticket holders don't want anything to do with them.  They would rather "eat" (carrying it unused into the stadium) the ticket...but you're going to help the season ticket holders by buying their tickets.

Season ticket holders don't want to be "embarrassed" by standing outside "hawking" tickets for sale.  But, if they see you're looking to buy a couple of tickets they will ask, "Do you need a ticket?"

The "Face Value" of a ticket means nothing.  The team makes season ticket holders feel good that they paid $75 for something marked $150. It also disappoints them when they sell it for $25.

Never buy an "Internet" printed ticket...they've been photo copied 50 times.

What you need to do:

Print up a Seating Chart of M&T Bank Stadium and have it with you. Know what range of sections you want.  Don't bother with end zone seats, between the two 30 yards lines is a good range.

Know what you are willing to pay - $25 a ticket is plenty for this game.  Have CASH READY to buy the tickets.

Dress (your Dolphins attire is fine) & Act like the guy you would want sitting next to your children at Sun Life Stadium.  Nearly every ticket I bought was next to the people I bought it from.  Nobody wants to sit next to a jerk.

Go to Where The Tickets are - The best seats Come From Permit Parking on the north side of the Stadium.   You're getting off the Light Rail at Hamburg Street, go to your right, as you walk towards the stadium. The Gates around the stadium to the right is where to find the best tickets. Its a Big Plaza with lots of people.  Put up 1 or 2 fingers (even if you need 4) to let people know you're looking.

If you came to the stadium via the Metro or you're walking through the parking lots, there are plenty of tickets available for the corner end zone.  Go to the Big Plaza, straight ahead, in front of the stadium for the best seats.

The best seats are Purple, Fancy Design, Team Logos, Quality Printed tickets. 

Do NOT buy "Internet" printed tickets.  If Ticketmaster printed tickets, check the back for printed matter - they should not be blank.  Also, they won't be good seats.

Check the tickets for the Section Number, is it in your range?  Ask the seller "Are the seats next to you?  Are they Good?"  If you want the tickets, then offer $25 a ticket.  When the person ask for $100, just tell them that's all the want to pay.  They may take the $25 or look for a better price, but the clock is ticking.  They'll take the $25 and why not?  Its better than nothing.

Enjoy the game and your Great Seats.

After the Game - Federal Hill, Harborplace and beyond

M&T Bank Stadium is a few blocks from historic Federal Hill.  The "Federal" troops lived in the narrow homes during the Civil War.

There are many restaurants and bars on Charles & Light Streets.  No chains, all "local" places. 

Out of the stadium, walk past (under) the Light Rail (east side of stadium) on Hamburg Street to Light Street.  Charles Street is one block further on Hamburg. 

Harborplace, five blocks east of the stadium, has the chains & tourist stops.  Walk towards Orioles Park, through the stadium parking lots on the north side.  Make a right turn on Conway Street. It comes to an end at Harborplace.

Little Italy, Fells Point, Canton neighborhoods will require a taxi ride from the Stadium area.  Not very expensive, but this is a "Going Green" Blog...haha.

If it's daytime, go back to the Light Rail for the ride back to the airport.  At night, take taxis from wherever you are to your hotel.

Redskins vs. Titans @ LP Field, Nashville TN Nov 21, 2010 Noon Kickoff

Nashville is a fun Road Game Day Trip. Very easy & safe to get around on public transit. My most recent Road Game there was a 2009 NFL Playoff game, Ravens defeated the Titans. I bought a Club Level ticket for $25.  Had dinner, then went to a NHL Predators game at The Summit.

Washington Redskins travel over the Cumberland River to meet the Tennessee Titans in Music City USA.

Nashville is Central Time***Kickoff is Noon

Titans games always have plenty of tickets available.  Season tickets holders have Permit Parking on the north & west sides of stadium. The bus will take you over the Cumberland River, to the north side of LP Field.

If you are walking around downtown Nashville and decide to walk across the Pedestrian Bridge to LP Field, there are plenty of tickets for sale on the bridge.  Don't bother, unless you want a corner end zone seat.  If you want the best seats, See SCORE THE BEST SEATS - Cheap.

Flying into Nashville (BNA)

From BWI Airport - On Nov 21, 2010 Southwest Airlines has Non-Stop flights at 7:10 am & 9:05 am to Nashville.  Southwest has an excellent cancellation policy should you flight be delayed, awful weather in Nashville or you just change your mind; you'll have Full Credit for one year from date of purchase for the next trip.

Your flight home from Nashville (BNA) is 7:05 pm, plenty of time for the game, dinner downtown Music City USA and the ride to the airport.

From Reagan/Dulles - American Airlines has Non-stop flights from Dulles, US Airways Non-stop from National.  The times are not as good as the BWI flights.

Travel from the Airport (BNA) to Nashville

Nashville MTA has Express Bus Service from the Airport. The #18 Airport/Music City Central departs the airport once an hour, on the :45 hour. 

On the bus, buy an ALL DAY PASS, it costs $4.80.  The fare box on the bus takes credit cards and cash.

Arrival at Music City Central - Bus Terminal

Your Airport Express Bus will arrive in Bay #18 at Music City Central - Bus Terminal

If you don't have time for breakfast, See Getting to LP Field

Breakfast in Music City USA

You'll arrive in Bay #18 at 5 minutes past the hour.  Walk across to Bay #17 - Take Bus #7 Hillsboro - it leaves on the quarter hour.  It's a nice ride through town. 

I heard about a popular restaurant called Pancake Pantry.  When I asked the bus driver about the closest bus stop to it...several riders on the bus said "Go to Fido's"  I went to Fido's, it was excellent, especially their gourmet coffee.  Its a block past Pancake Pantry. This is the Vanderbilt University area.  Lots of students and the typical collegiate atmosphere. Check out both places and pick the best for you.

The bus goes down Broadway and turns on to 21st.  When the bus makes its left turn onto Wedgewood, Your Stop is Wedgewood & 21st Street. Exit the bus.

Walk to the corner, make a left turn onto 21st Street.  Pancake Pantry will be on your left and Fido's one block further down 21st Street on the left.

After Breakfast

Leaving the restaurant, turn right onto 21st Street and walk to the Bus Stop.  Take Bus #7 Hillsboro on 21st back to Music City Central - Bus Terminal.  The bus pulls into Bay #17.

Getting to LP Field

At the Bus Terminal:  Which ever one of these buses is ready to leave, get on it, they all go to LP Field:

Bus #4 in Bay #14; Bus #14 in Bay #2; Bus #23 in Bay #12  

In 10 minutes you're through downtown and over the bridge.  The Bus Stop is Woodland & South 1st Street - LP Field.  You'll be right where you need to be.

SCORE THE BEST SEATS - Cheap

What you need to know:

At Kickoff (noon), Unused Tickets are Worthless.

Tickets for the Best Seats arrive 30 minutes prior to the Noon Kickoff (11:30 am).

DON'T settle for bad seats.  This is YOUR DAY!  Your team, on the road; your friends will be talking about this game for years to come.

Season Ticket Holders (i.e. Best Seats) have extras or gave them all away to friends, customers and employees. Those great seats are going into the stadium unused...Unless you offer to buy it from the person that have them.  Most people are delighted to get something for it.

A lot of people come to the game with extras and what to decide who is sitting next to them. That is why they don't sell them on tickets exchange sites.

Buying extra tickets from a season ticket holder is a Win-Win situation. Thank him/her for selling it to you.

Do NOT buy from Ticket "Scalpers" - The "I need tickets" guys with 10 tickets in their hand.  Some sell fakes & voided tickets.  Season ticket holders don't want anything to do with them.  They would rather "eat" (carrying it unused into the stadium) the ticket...but you're going to help the season ticket holders by buying their tickets.

Season ticket holders don't want to be "embarrassed" by standing outside "hawking" tickets for sale.  But, if they see you're looking to buy a couple of tickets they will ask, "Do you need a ticket?"

The "Face Value" of a ticket means nothing.  The team makes season ticket holders feel good that they paid $75 for something marked $200. It also disappoints them when they sell it for $25.

Never buy "Internet" printed tickets...they've been photo copied 50 times.

What you need to do:

Print up a Seating Chart of LP Field and have it with you. Know what range of sections you want.  Don't bother with end zone seats, between the two 30 yards lines is a good range.

Know what you are willing to pay - $25 a ticket is plenty for this game.  Have CASH READY to buy the tickets.

Dress (your Redskins attire is fine) & Act like the guy you would want sitting next to your children at FedEx Field.  Nearly every ticket I bought was next to the people I bought it from.  Nobody wants to sit next to a jerk.

Go to Where The Tickets are - The best seats Come From Permit Parking in Lots G, M on the north side and S, K. M on the west side of LP Field.   You're getting off the bus on Woodland at South 1st Street, Lots G & M are on your right, as you walk towards the stadium. The Gates around the stadium to the right is where to find the best tickets. Put up 1 or 2 fingers (even if you need 4) to let people know you're looking.

The best seats are Fancy, Team Logos, Quality Printed tickets.  Do NOT bother with "Internet" printed tickets.  If Ticketmaster printed tickets, check the back for printed matter - they should not be blank.

Check the tickets for the Section Number, is it in your range?  Ask the seller "Are the seats next to you?  Are they Good?"  If you want the tickets, then offer $25 a ticket.  When the person ask for $100, just tell them that's all the want to pay.  They may take the $25 or look for a better price, but the clock is ticking.  They'll take the $25 and why not?  Its better than nothing.

Enjoy the game and your Great Seats.

After the Game

Bus back to town - The #4, #14 & #23 Bus Stop on Woodland heading towards the bridge, will take you back downtown.  I would get off at Union & 5th Ave N. Walk on 5th Ave towards Broadway - Welcome to Music City.  Plenty of Restaurants & Bars.  If you don't exit the bus at Union & 5th, you'll start at Music City Central - Bus Terminal, an extra 3 blocks walk to Broadway.

Pedestrian Bridge on the south end of LP Field going across the Cumberland River offers beautiful views.  When you get over the bridge; you will be at 1st Ave S & Shelby (Riverfront Park is on your right).  Walk one block to your right and up Broadway.  Enjoy your visit to Music City USA

Dinner in Nashville

You'll probably find a fine restaurant & bar on Broadway.  I'm a sports fan.  It took two trips to Nashville before I found where the "locals" go after the game.  The Best Sports Bar in town.

The Nashville Hilton located off Broadway on 4th Ave South.  Coming up Broadway, turn left at 4th Avenue, go a short block, turn right at McGavrock St.

"Sports Grill" at the Hilton. Has 35 HDTVs, long bar, high tops & tables...food & drink specials.  Many Titans fans go there to catch the afternoon games.  The food was good and the atmosphere 100% Football.  There is a relaxing lobby with country music, smaller lounges inside as well.  Also, your ride to the airport leaves from outside the Hilton.

Return to the Airport

The #18 Bus Airport Express will stop on 4th Ave S & McGavorock - Flag It Down.  Walk out of the Hilton and make a left to 4th Ave S.  Taxis are waiting at the Hilton a few feet away, if you're running late.

The Bus comes there at approx 20 minutes past the hour.  The 8:20 pm bus, is the last one on Sunday night.  Make sure you "Flag Down" the bus.

The Bus will get you to Nashville Airport in 20 minutes.

Have a safe trip home

Baltimore Ravens @ Miami Dolphins Sun Life Stadium, October 6, 2013 1 pm

Welcome to Miami...not  really, you're in Miami Gardens.

This stadium was called Pro Player, Dolphin, Dolphins, Joe Robbie, Landshark and now Sun Life Stadium. Miami (a/k/a The "U") and the NFL Dolphins now call Sun Life their home field.

Facts about Sun Life Stadium 

This is Not South Beach - its Miami Gardens - Exit 2X off the Florida Turnpike (199th Street & University Blvd) bordering with Broward County.  Make sure you have Confirmed Transportation to Get Back to Your Hotel.

This is Not the Orange Bowl - that was The "U" home field in Little Havana, it was demolished in 2009 to make way for MLB Marlins Park. The "BCS Orange Bowl Game" is played here at Sun Life Stadium.

Yes, the 2010 Super Bowl was here.  So why does it look like a dump outside?  The NFL asks that too.

Survival Checklist: If you come Early to Tailgate there is no shade, no vendors and few spot-a-pots outside the stadium.  Be Prepared for 100 degree heat with these items:
___ Hat
___ Sunscreen
___ Bottled Water
___ Hand Sanitizer

**You can bring sealed plastic bottled water into stadium - Do It!

Gas, Food, Drinks, Ice - Walking distance from Sun Life Stadium

Half mile from the stadium is a RaceTrac gas station on University Blvd at 207th Street.  Food, drinks, ice and a bathroom are inside.  The Bus Stop for Broward County & South Beach are on 207th Street.

Calder Race Course is next door to Sun Life Stadium.  Parking & Admission are free.  It's the Tropical Meet @ Calder. Live horse racing (Post Time 12:30 pm) and Simulcast of other tracks.  Poker Room going 24/7 on weekends.  Be Advised - Florida's New No-Limit rules are drawing "sharks" with big bankrolls. The Calder Casino also has slots and is open 24/7 on the weekends.

Lots of Dining choices at Calder.  Excellent prices for comfort foods (buffet, restaurant & counter service).  Join the Players Club for discounts.

**Note:  If you're thinking of Parking at Calder (Free) and walking to Sun Life Stadium - Don't!   I did it for the 2002 Orange Bowl, MD Alumni had "Day at Races" - you still cannot cut through to the stadium (Snake Creek has gators - I don't mean UF mascots).  You'll have to walk via University Blvd (2+ miles).  Park at the Sun Life Stadium for the Ravens Game.

If you arrive by taxi, MAKE ADVANCE plans for a return ride to your hotel.  The Stadium does NOT have a taxi stand and taxis do NOT frequent University Blvd, even in the daytime.  The 2009 Ravens Playoff game ended 4 pm, I directed a dozen Ravens fans on the bus back to Miami.  They arrived in taxis from their hotel and thought the game was in South Beach.

The game will be over during Daylight hours.  At night, the stadium area is NOT safe to walk around and wait for public transportation.  Arrange in advance for a ride to your hotel. 

Public Transit to Sun Life Stadium & Calder Race Course

Tri-Rail from North (Mangonia Park) to South (Miami Airport)

The Tri-Rail (local commuter train) cost $5 on the weekend for an unlimited ticket.  Buy the Ticket at the machine. Take the Train to Golden Glades Station.  There is a FREE SHUTTLE for Tri-Rail Riders ONLY to Sun Life Stadium. This is the BEST way to go to the game, if you're coming from the Palm Beach County.

Bus From Miami (SoBe) Beach

Bus #120 will take you north from Miami Beach (South Beach) to Aventura Mall.  Buy a One-Day Fare Card Miami Metro "Easy Ticket" for $5 on the bus.  At Aventura Mall, Take the #99 Bus to University Blvd & 199th Street - in front of Sun Life Stadium.  See Survival Checklist...there's a Race Trac gas station with a nice store at 207th & University.  That's the "last chance" to buy anything until you are in the stadium.

To return to Miami Beach - take the #99 Bus going Eastbound to Aventura Mall, then back to Bus #120 Southbound to Miami Beach (SoBe).

SCORE THE BEST SEATS - Cheap

What you need to know:

At Kickoff, Unused Tickets are Worthless.

Tickets for the Best Seats arrive 30 minutes prior to Kickoff.

There will be many No-Shows.  The hotter the temperature, the more the No-Shows.  The "U" rarely plays a daytime game and after today, you will know why.

DON'T settle for bad seats.  I bought Orange Bowl (Penn St-Florida St) tickets for $20 and Ravens-Dolphins Wildcard Playoff for $25, both on 35 yard line. The "off the beaten path" location of the stadium makes it a Buyers Market.   If you want to pay $10 for a "comp" employee ticket just to get in the stadium, there are plenty of empty seats in the upper deck.

Season Ticket Holders (i.e. Best Seats) have extras or give them all away to friends, customers and employees. Many tickets are going into the stadium unused...Unless you offer to buy it from the person that have them.  Most people are delighted to get something for it.

A lot of season ticket holders come to the game with extras and want to decide who is sitting next to them. That's why don't sell them on tickets exchange sites.

Buying an extra ticket from a season ticket holder is a Win-Win situation. Most realize there are very few buyers at these games.

Do NOT buy from Ticket "Scalpers" - The "I need tickets" guys with 10 tickets in their hand. Some sell fakes & voided tickets.  Season ticket holders don't want anything to do with them.  They would rather "eat" (carrying it unused into the stadium) the ticket, but you're going to help out the season ticket holders by buying their tickets. 

Season ticket holders don't want to be "embarrassed" by standing outside "hawking" tickets for sale.  But, if they see you're looking to buy a couple of tickets they will ask, "Do you need a ticket?"

The "Face Value" of a ticket means nothing.  The team makes season ticket holders feel good that they paid $75 for something marked $200. It also disappoints them when they sell it for $20.

Never buy "Internet" printed tickets (pages)...they've been photo copied 50 times.

What you need to do:

Print up a Seating Chart of Sun Life Stadium and have it with you. Know what range of sections you want.  Don't bother with end zone seats, between the two 30 yards lines is a good range.

Know what you are willing to pay - $20 a ticket is plenty for this game.  Have CASH READY to buy the tickets.

Dress (your Ravens attire is fine) & Act like the guy you would want sitting next to your children at M&T Stadium.  Nearly every ticket I bought was next to the person I bought it from.  Nobody wants to sit next to a jerk.

Go to Where The Tickets are - The best seats Come From the Maroon & Purple Permit lots next to the stadium  The Parking Lot signs will direct you. Put up 1 or 2 fingers (even if you need 4) to let people know you're looking.

The best seats are Teal & Orange, Fancy, Dolphins Logo, Hologram, Quality Printed tickets. 

If Ticketmaster printed tickets, check the back for printed matter - it should not be blank. Probably, one of the many free tickets given out. Reminder - Don't Buy Internet Tickets (pages).

Check the tickets for the Section Number, is it in your range?  Ask the seller "Are the seats next to you?  Are they Good?"  If you want the tickets, then offer $10 a ticket.  When the person ask for $100, just tell them $20 is all you're willing to pay.  They may take the $20 or look for a better price, but the clock is ticking.  They'll take the $20 and why not?  Its better than nothing.

Enjoy the game and your Great Seats.