Zip's Page
A top Patriot Fan Site since 1996 - Oldest on the Web!
Winner of the 2001 Patriots Fan of the Year Award!

The Patriots had lost their must win game the previous week but fortune had provided a small window of opportunity.  A victory over Miami and a loss by the Jets to Green Bay would ensure the Champs a place in the playoffs.  Could the team dig deep after the embarrassment versus the Jets?  The tailgaters arrived in full force to give a resounding vote of "Yes!"

The season concluded with David Chartier running the show.  His Blue Bruschi joins our seat neighbor Fred to complete the Patriotic Bruschi support.  Charts is the ace guru behind web site challenges and technology updates.  He also has tailgate equipment mastered.

We had our obligatory Jello Shot toasts which somehow Zip continuously dodged making.  Whether Robin, Monty or Karen picked up the slack, the fact is Zip managed to escape the duty yet savor the results.  It didn't keep his yap closed when toast time came either.  MW?

 

As always there was quality time spent relaxing and an equal amount of time ensuring the Oz (Ostend) was relaxing.

Now Monty and Christiana had their own ideas about how to best relax.  Fortunately Monty wasn't sharing himself with any of us!  Let this serve as a warning to all ladies attending the Zip's Home Tailgates - you could end up with Monty.

Speaking of Jello Shots...		whoops, try that again
	Hank! and Deb!		Karen & the Crew!

Now as for the game, it was a dismal performance again with Miami seemingly having their victory and thus playoff position confirmed.  That is until a bit of magic sparked an explosive finale in which New England rallied from 11 points to force overtime.  The Dolphins utilized horrific coaching, decisions, execution and poise to ensure New England could wrap up Adamatic Vinatieri's overtime victory.  "I Still Believe" made some national appearances and believing paid off as the excitement of the afternoon lingered longer than most expected.  Gilette Stadium finally produced a game with some atmosphere and noise which had been woefully short all season.  Ultimately the prize was achieved at the game and there was considerable post game celebration.  Mike Schuster joined us for the post game pics and a few brews later.

Sadly the Euphoria was short lived as Green Bay rolled over and were thrashed by the NY Jets.  New York would go on to thrash the Colts before taking a loss at the Raiders.  The afternoon's close had some sorrowful overtones as the tailgaters learned their team was finished playing early.  The team had earned this fate and hopefully will carry the lessons into the future.  The Tailgate has progressed and shows signs of being a Patriot Landmark for many years to come.  Thanks again to Dave and the many fine folk who make these tailgates work so well!  Go Pats!

This was a Must Win Game.  The Biggest game of the season would be every consecutive game but this one was especially such because it was required to continue to hold control of their playoff destiny but because it was arch-rival New York.  We had Armand of Patsfans, Mike of GoPats, Doug of Murphy's Tailgaters, Patriot's Fan Club of Rochester and a host of the regulars all gathered to celebrate the gala event.  We even had Sooth of JetInsider to ensure the evil empire was represented.  With our outstanding regulars: Monty, Karen of Mrs. B's Patriot World, Al, Larry, Laureen, Robin, Lou, Lisa and a surprise guest of her husband Dana, and several rare visitors such as Jose, Theresa, Chivan, Jeff and his boys and even the mysterious Dave Inkpen in minuteman regalia!.  It was a grande crew and good celebration as befits such an occasion!

Rob Webber is a professional Zip Tailgait Attendee.  He has it down to an art form.  Timely arrival with lunchtime feastings.  Though Tuna is gone from all of us - and possibly to Dallas at that, there is still a good healthy dose of Wassabi needed to kick start a Pats Tailgate.  

The Veteran Web was outfitted in some fine haberdashery even though the performance of both players was a bit too close - and Bruschi was on the sidelines injured!

As always there were games to be played prior to the game and this unique football toss had a Superbowl Champion Coors 'Beer' available for the losers to share in each round.  Soothsayer of the Jets sidled up with his companion to challenge the Web-Zip duo in football toss at a Jet Target.  Web was hot on the game but Zip and Jet fans struggled.  A Pat Hat inspired the Jet duo but too late and Web put them to shame.   Subsequent rounds had the Champs stumble (more foreshadowing?) before a Jose-Zip rally led to Zip plunking the final winner (though he did only manage two hits all day!).

Web had his annual song which the throng always manages to appreciate with far more enthusiasm than most could guess.  This year Web enjoined the Holiday Spirit with a remake of "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" which despite the libatious crowd still sounded better than Bruce Springsteen's rendition!

If you think it sounds bad up there you should hear it done by 40 rabid pats fans in a tailgate.  We are talking (in the words of the late great Harry Chapin: Mormon Tubercular Choir!)  Perhaps a sign of things to come....

No, not this lovely lass as she was a pleasant enough distraction for Web and a few other fans.

So onward we trekked to the game with one of the surprise guests, Jose, making the journey from Dallas via Denver to watch his team vanquish the rivals and step that much closer to their goals.  Jose got a good seat at face and even joined us for a pre-game pose.

While Faulk's TD return wasn't the sole highlight of the game, it was a significant one and earned Web National TV fame.  Unfortunately despite the potency of a great tailgate, the enthusiasm of a mostly very good crowd and despite the Holiday season: New York took the game solidly on the strength of Chad Pennington.  When will Belichick learn to handle those young Quarterbacks???!

Thus...with his team having lost (30-17) yet again to the visiting Jets, Zip's shame was redoubled as he was contractually obligated to don the Abraham Jet jersey and kneel before Sooth.  Last year's Superbowl sweetness held the bild down but no doubt this will be a popular photo at JetInsider!  

Bledsoe Bowl II as it was 'bill'ed but more importantly this game decided which team would advance in contention for the Division Crown and which would falter very likely out of the playoffs.  Bill French would grab the game and we were fortunate to have excellent weather and a great game at the 'Blade.'

Now that mound of beads was a gift from Lisa and Dana for which I was charged with a simple task: Disperse to the deserving lady Pats fans of the world.  My mission as you see is far from accomplished!  This may in part be due to Zip's sluggish tailgate which no doubt impaired his appreciation.  Fortunately the rest of the crew was in fine form and the throng of regulars.  Bledsoe Angie made her first ever appearance and the young lass brought more tribute in food and gifts than was warranted - the Jag was allegedly outstanding though not sampled by Zip who was struggling pre-game.  Phil arrived without Sharon but his luck is running high as the Brady supporter held his own with victory over his QB nemesis.

To the left is the full crew of regulars  while to the right is the infamous Bosco Internet crew.  List folks from around  the country always have a home at our Tailgate.

Meanwhile Monty can be expected to be on hand with the finest in post-game steak tips.  Challenged by Jim the Dawg's success, Monty accounted his culinary talents very well.  His Swordfish was equally well received.  It's a hard pressed guest to match the battle royale of food creation and sharing which occurs with Mrs. Bruschi, Monty, Lisa, Dana, Darren and newcomers Robin and Lou.

Bill's astounding outbreak of every food possible in Buffalo was up for the challenge of course.  It seemed to not end and in fact unintentional contraband Buffalo Jerky even made its way into the game.  There was a sad shortage of photographic moments but Mrs. B's page does atone somewhat over here.

As mentioned there was a newcomer on the food horizon as Robin and Lou made allegedly the spicier variety of hotwings which Zip typically feasts upon with impunity.  Here is the trio partaking of Chili instead however...and Sleuth level Chili at that - but it was post game.  Of course the spoonful of straight Tabasco did augment the cool air somewhat!

Lastly there was a Bruschi-snob who made his way to the Tailgate but the issue was reconciled with his clarification it was more a Ted Johnson loyalty.  Loyalty is a valued commodity and Ted had a solid game so Jacob is off the hook - though Ostend still isn't talking to him!

A great group of folk as always and a quality game as Drew fell victim to a Patriot team which is doing much to impersonate their drive of last season.  Go Pats...  8-5 and climbing~

Jim knew there was a Viking Fan torment in the works and so he astutely chose this game.  He then joined Zip in ensuring it would be well utilized as Nicole's Minnesota loyalties still keeps the Patriots as her second team.  Losing a wager on the final standings from last season, Nicole would be joining the duo in Patriots gear and as Tailgate 'servant' for the crew.  She was a tremendous sport about the bet and deserves a ton of credit despite her 'misguided' loyalties.

During the GameDay-eve there were some fine entertainment in the infamous 'envelope challenges.'  These provided Nicole with a chance to demonstrate her Viking loyalties at risk of some peril - such as the Patriot Hooters shirt she 'earned' for the trip to the best Ribs in Nashua!
This was of course not nearly as dangerous as her failure to demonstrate Patriotic loyalties which allegedly loom large behind the Minnesota connection.  It left her with barely sufficient coverage for the making of the tailgate Jell-O shots.
Though in her 'trivial' failings she was not abandoned.  Jim's Culpepper Poppers wager earned him a B-shot with Nicole and feeling alone Zip joined the crew in a posed shot - shot!

GameDay!

The winds were blustering impressively and as Jim's breakfast fare helped work towards consciousness, the Patriotic trio dressed Nicole (in many layers of Pats Garb) for the trek.  Several morning envelope challenges produced a few additions to Nicole's apparel which included her cheeky rendition of Temporary Tattoos!

	The Flags show the impressive Wind level on the day.  The canopy was a fine shield before the game to keep folks considerably warmer.  During the game, however, the canopy fell victim as a broken cinder block and twisted metal was the remains of the shelter.  Kind and sadly anonymous lot fans helped ensure the situation was nearly resolved by Zip's return from the game!
	Nicole served up the Jell-O shots of infamy for the group toast and joined the more raucous crowd in appreciation of the fine food, friends and fun which are typical of the tailgates.

Jim did an excellent job and it's not surprising his score broke the 90 barrier for the first time this year.  Welcome to your first official season in the Tailgate crew - and thanks for helping make it such a great time!

Karen, Zip & Nicole chillin' - literally!	Before Zip finds anti-freeze

Jim had a Viking Horn as plunder from which he was served the first Bruschi Brew (7) of the Tailgate.  The wry smiles are no doubt due to the contraband issue which will be detailed below!

The envelope challenges didn't all go against her as Nicole proves here.  Fortunately she did make a small Apron blunder which enabled Zip, after a rather entertaining bit of arbitration which involved a cell phone excursion, to escape the shame.  Not before Nicole took full enjoyment from the process!  Damn you Jim! :)

   Several magical moments were missed by the various film crews.  Amongst them was the infamous Viking Helmet kicking contest and Nicole's exceedingly creative mixing of Patriotic face-paint to create a "get Miguel in trouble" Viking Warrior Outfit which she proudly strode into the Blade.  Anyone want to send those pics along?  Oh - one was found:

   There was of course a fine game - in which a 21-0 lead no doubt made it unpleasant for the Viking clad Nicole who attended in part due to Miguel's courtesy - Thanks Miguel!  It certainly made for a pleased Jim "Dawgpound" Pitkiewicz!

One of the Surest signs of Victory       is Tedy Bruschi trotting to his Backers       for the congratulatory handshake!

The post game pictures are a bit dark but Nicole lost another pair of bets.  One for the conqueror pose which is show beside the pots game trio.  The other is a repeat performance at a future away game when the celebrents and a host of folk attend Zip's home based tailgate.

As always Zip's Tailgate would not be nearly as fine without the great kinship of our crew.  Regulars Karen, Al, Monty, Darren, Larry, Laureen, Lisa, Dana, Steve and a host of irregulars (take that as you will) ensure we have a devout band eager to welcome the arrival of newcomers!  Go Pats!

The first official game at the Razor (Gillette Stadium) with a Monday Night battle against the self proclaimed champions of the American Football Conference.  Of course the best line of the night involved the best use for Pittsburgh's legendary 'terrible towel' which is of course to polish our New England Patriot Super Bowl Champion rings!  Speaking of Championships - why don't we start with the unfurling of the banner so well earned last season.

	So the basics of Tailgate form were as usual in fine form.  The usual fare of tables laden with food, a canopy with the Full Tilt Full Time banner, USA flag, people milling about in celebratory anticipation...oh and a Superbowl Championship Flag swaying in the breeze of this 90+ degree day!
	This is of course the Motley crew of folks including guests from Dallas, Alabama, Connecticutte, Rhode Island, New Hampshire and of course the Commonwealth.  All aided in creating tailgate splendor such as the excellent elixir of "Bruschi Brew 7"

Piles of food Feasters... (Oz, Zip & Karen)

and of course 'people' talking about the World Champions! (Robin, Zip, Miguel and Bama)

Al Michaels and John Madden peer out from the new Broadcast Booth as MNF premiered the new team, the new world Champs and of course the new digs as Gillette Stadium (right) shows it's name above a JumboTron with World Champions on their way out!

Colonial Patriots were on hand to fire off volleys in honor of each Patriot Score.  They could be heard to 'complain' as the game drew to a close: "We sure used a lot of ammo tonight!"  Somehow I doubt the jubilant crowd minded this 'problem.'

So it began -with the Patriot's choosing to kickoff thereby showcasing their Defense first while at the same time letting a hero of the Superbowl, Adam Vinatieri, be the official start of their new season as assuredly as he ended the previous one!

Tailgate Duo

Where to sit?

Jose and Zip live!

Buckley picks off Kordell early!	Patriots offense!	The first TD of the "Razor!"	and celebration!

Jose closed out the Superbowl Season by joining me in New Orleans.  Jose had earned his way to the Raider game by winning the lottery and Jose traded in Zip's game draft to ensure he had the Monday Night Opener.  He's shared some fine moments and memories closing out the Fox and opening the Razor - both with splendid victories in which he shows his play by play is as good as it gets... make that 'no ... good.'

This day the 'Underdog' World Champions proved they are still top dog in this league and we were there - at the stadium, on National TV and most importantly... behind our team!  Go Pats!

One last Picture: It wouldn't be a Jose game without at least one of these - and I assure you there were more of them...many more!

As soon as Ostend heard there was cat (albeit Panther) on the menu, the eager Golden was licking his chops... either that or he found his way to some of the bones of 1000 tailgates before this one! When I mentioned it might be bonus points for having a blonde on my lap - this isn't precisely what I intended John...

There was a pre-departure bowling match - prior to a bit of being lost in Chelmsford as we battled the route 3 Nightmare in search of our second Brian.  We did all arrive successfully in order to toast the end

and of course we have the pregame duo as well as the game duo.  Can you figure out who was afraid of the hat?  As if I wasn't going to put it on display either way!!!

Ever wonder how the Golden Child's view of the game looks?  Seek no further:

Even though he does have his name on a seat - albeit shared with the Modester!

There is nothing so fine as the end to preseason home games with a victory and no serious injuries.  Sure Tedy gave us a scare but ultimately he was fine and it just cost us a handshake - a small price.

CMGI Gillette Field opens for it's first Gridiron action.  This motley crew joined us in the usual Tailgate location and featured such notables as Monty, Miguel, Mrs. Cardoza-Bruschi, Netcastles Webmistress Melissa and husband Bill who happens to be the  most prolific Patriot Card Trader out there, Zip's Brother Richard, nephew Chris, the indomitable Chris Sheridan, Bob the bellringer and driver and apparently Zip and Ostend in partial hiding!  It was a stiflingly warm summer day but the opening demanded our attentions.

Rick, Chris and Bob arrived early enough to begin with the ever-popular car painting:

From thence it moved to a fine repast of Philly Cheese Steaks - always feast upon your opponent early and often!  Always give Zip a full belly so you don't have to hear him grumble!

At the lot the festivities were high as we returned to the site we'd last held ground for the Raider Snowbowl.  We greeted old friends and reminisced on a relaxing afternoon.  Preseason excitement is a bit of a farce but the company and fun was high.  Patriot Darts were hurled towards balloon shaped Eagle players and the points were tallied with Monty edging out Zip by 4 points for the lead.  Oddly no injuries were reported!  Was it due to Strongbow Cider?  Strawberry Daiquiri mixes which were simply an excuse to consume crushed ice in the heat?  Perhaps the injury was awaiting the football pinata which never arrived as a hasty pack job led to the early visit to the new home.  The tailgate lacked only more pictures of the festivities.  It was a fine start to the new home and old traditions!

Back to the driving/parking approach:   Assuming that you are getting to the Stadium by Route 1, there are simply two choices:   Route 1 Heading North or Route 1 Heading South.  I recommend heading South (from 95) as I have pictures to make it clear but both are quite possible.

Heading North on Route 1: The last lot on your left before you pass the crest of the hill.   The "Beantown Sports Souvenir" store and sign should be your clue.   Enter the lot and head to the far back right as per below! Heading South on Route 1:  You will pass the first entrance to the stadium and should get into the right lane.  You will proceed up the hill past Rodman Ford and actually pass the crest of the hill with the stadium clearly visible directly to your left.  You may notice the path on your right which is which is referenced above (this path is the route we walk to the game and the best access on foot to my tailgate - when the path forks take the right fork! I'll be almost directly ahead - slightly to the right as the path emerges to this secluded section of the parking lot!

Ok - just after you pass that path and the crest of the hill, you will take your next right - the following two pictures should provide reasonable landmarks for you. 

So after having gotten yourself into that lot from the ever closer pictures above - you now need to turn right at the back of the lot and proceed way up to the top of the hill in the right most corner of the lot.  This is the corner closest to the road and furthest from the entrance (not on the diagonal).  It is right here that the path goes directly to route 1 and provides easy enter and exit.  It's a quiet little corner until we arrive and spruce it up.  You'll notice that my tailgate can be distinguished by the white Canopy, the Patriots Flag and most significantly the "54 Full Tilt Full Time" banner upon the Canopy!.  The Tedy Bruschi jerseys should also be a clue.  Note the picture of the lot properly marked and then a picture of the tailgate set up from the final '01 season games in which we defeated the Dolphins and claimed first place in the AFC-East.  We also named Zip the New England Patriot Fan of the Year and carried onward to win the Superbowl!! Remember - folks are always welcome to join us and a quick yell of "Zip" should get you a response.  Feel free to send me an email telling me you'll be joining us but stop by either way!

We park just to the right of the mark above. Sale of the lot moved us up a bit from last year!

The evolved form of our Tailgate setup! Click to enlarge - Miami Victory when Zip was named Patriots Fan of the Year!