While entering the game on the north side of the stadium, we met up with this Gary Baxter wannabe. The truth be known, she was collecting funds for abused children which makes her that much more special in our book. Sporting goods apparel merchants throughout the Land of Pleasant Living, start stocking up on Gary Baxter jerseys.

What an ensemble! This Ravenmaniac likely takes longer than Ray Lewis to suit up. And the results are purely Baltimore. Hey, where’d you get those kicks? I could go for those Old School Converse myself!!!

For those that don’t enter The Vault from the north side where the Johnny U statue stands, it has become a ritual for fans to touch Johnny’s high top spikes. This winning photo speaks volumes about where the heart and soul and future of Baltimore sports lies.

Despite the fact that the Orioles had a scheduled game on TV v. the Indians; despite the threatening weather and despite the many things that families do on Sundays in B’more, nearly 12,000 fans ventured out to The Vault on May 2, 2004 to take part in the Spring Football Festival. Children of all ages enjoyed the games and fans of all sizes welcomed the Draft Class of 2004. This picture captures the spirit of the day and it may even entice Ravens scouts to check out future festivals. This kid has game!!!

BEST TAILGATE ~ LITERALLY

This photo gives new meaning to the phrase, “tailgate party.” If you look closely in the tailgate‘s reflection, you can see Mom & Dad and Uncle Billy Bob lounging in Lot H. You might even notice the photographer just below the “Ford” logo. That would be me……

BEST WARREN SAPP IMPERSONATION AT A RAVENS TAILGATE

Now that is one innovative way to keep the former Buc from flapping his gums!!! Hopefully next year’s Edgars will include a similar device for Terrell Owens. By the way, for justice to be served, the NFL should have scheduled the Ravens v. Eagles at The Vault. We’re sure you agree!

BEST ROAD TRIP PHOTO

WELCOME TO MIAMI! This sight for sore eyes was taken during a Ravens Road Trip to South Florida, more specifically ~ South Beach. These Ravens fans were also spotted in Arizona. During the 2004 Season, your creativity will be challenged to beat this picture since exotic road trip destinations such as Miami, Phoenix, San Francisco Bay Area and San Diego have been replaced by Indianapolis, New York, Boston and DC.

BEST DRINKING APPARATUS AT A TAILGATE PARTY

You went downtown tailgating in your mini van

In your fine Ravens gear and clothes

You had the Dom Perignon on the ice

And the spoon up your nose

I’m sorry folks, one man or boy’s loss is another man’s gain. I admit it, I found humor, pleasure and satisfaction in this photo. The only thing that would make it better would be if the boy was dressed in black and gold and the score in the lower right corner read: RAVENS 52, STEELERS 0.

MOST DEDICATED TAILGATER

The once overflowing cooler was empty as were his pockets. His friends left him behind because he wanted to continue his Ravens’ celebration. He started to look a bit pale in the face yet he kept the party alive and ventured over to Mother’s. His ATM card was lost and so he thought desperate times call for desperate measures.

BEST KIDS PHOTO

The future of the 12th man lies in the spirit of kids like our favorite in 2003, “The Shish Kabob Kid.” We love the attitude written literally and figuratively all over the child’s face. The only down side here is for his parents who can no longer convince the boy to go to McDonald’s. Filet mignon rules….Happy Meals Drool!!!