Win or Lose-Rain or Shine-Raider Fans Still Show

By Larry Garcia: Raiderdrive-BASD
11/22/09

(Click photos to view as larger images)

On Sunday, November 22, 2009, at Oakland California it was early Thanksgiving for the Raider Nation in the parking lot were fans gathered to tailgate waiting for the Raiders and Bengals to kick it off in Oakland California.  Raider flags flying high, Raider tents, barbecue grills smoking- with plenty of turkeys and refreshments if you get my drift and fans dressed in their usual Raider custom attire. There was the aroma of turkey-turkey and then some.  The Raiders are having another disappointing season; however, their fans are loyal and committed.

Artie from San Jose Ca. is a booster club member of the Raider Drive Booster Club from San Jose California. Artie is a season ticket holder and comes to every Raider game win or lose. Why does Artie come still show up? “Because I’m a die hard Raider fan since late 1995-win or lose,” said Artie.” Right now lots of people are going through rough times financially and most cannot afford tickets but all the die-hards come every day rain or shine-win or lose.”

Bob who is also a member of the Raider Drive booster club from San Jose California also attends every home game and is a season ticket holder.  Bob comes to the games early as Artie and helps set up their tents, barbecues and throws a mean grill. Bob asked why he also attends every Raider game despite the Raiders record. “I like to come to see all my friends, BBQ and relax. Sometimes if I do not make it in the game, it’s because I get a little drunk,” as he laughs.  Bob being in high spirits, a good mood jokingly says, “It’s when I get too tipsy-fall on the floor and can’t get up.” Bob is a nice individual and loves to joke and socialize with all the Raider fans as he did with me.  Have fun Bob!

Josie from San Jose California was kicking it with the booster club enjoying some good barbecue.  I asked Josie why she attends Raider games.  Josie said, “Camaraderie, the great food, the fans and hopefully the Raiders can rebuild and make it next year.”

Mike from Fremont California was having a great time.  By the time, Al (BASD photographer) and I made our way to Mike and his friends down the isle from the Raider Drive booster club group was already on his second turkey.  Mike was all set up with his turkey deep fryer.  Mike and company had the works, turkey, cranberry, stuffing, wine and more.  Mike and company served us a plate and that turkey was delicious as well the typical Thanksgiving complimentary feast that went with it.  “We come out here and we love doing this, we love to tailgate,” said Mike. Everybody puts on their “A” game and I think we did pretty well today.” I asked Mike why he keeps coming to the games. “You know, I ask myself that every day but yes, I’m a fan and I know these guys (Raiders) can do their job but they keep failing me.”  Mike as most Raider fans keep Faith. “I come to the games in hopes that they will turn things around.  But, even if the game sucks I still come due to the tailgates.”

Hang in there Mike, Artie, Bob and Josie, you are not alone Raider fans.  It was a good Raider Land Thanksgiving BBQ, given the fact that the Raiders were victorious over the Bengals.