Ice Bowl' should feel similar to Bills games
by CHRISTOPHER GORDON Orchard Park Editor

If you don't count seeing a sea of blue and gold or Thomas Vanek skating near the 50 yard line at Ralph Wilson Stadium, then the Winter Classic - the first regular season National Hockey League outdoor game in the United States - should feel about the same as attending a Buffalo Bills game.

The Buffalo Sabres will battle the Pittsburgh Penguins at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 1 at Ralph Wilson Stadium in what is being called the "Ice Bowl."

According to Orchard Park Police Chief Samuel McCune, the parking lots will open at 8 a.m., and he said fans coming to the game should treat it the same as they would a football game.

"What you can't take into the stadium for Bills games, you can't for this," said McCune.

This includes alcoholic beverages, bags larger than 12 inches in length, depth and height, beach balls, footballs, bottles, cans, thermoses and other beverage containers.

For a complete list of items that are allowed, visit the Web site www.buffalobills.com.

McCune said the gates will open at 11 a.m., with a game start time about 1:20 p.m.

He also cautioned that anyone who violates the "no parking" signs will have their vehicles towed.

McCune suggested that if there is snow on the ground, fans should give themselves extra time because parking could be at a premium.

Most of all, he is asking fans to have fun but be on their best behavior.

"Act responsibly and drink responsibly," said McCune. "It will be an interesting day." e-mail:cgordon@beenews.com