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As word quickly spread to other local Steeler fans, the club steadily
grew to about 150 members in just one season.
Briedy's Pub was to change owners after the season but the newly
established "Bay Area Black and Gold Club" decided to remain for one more year.
The club then voted to relocate in 1994 to its current home, O’Briens Irish
Pub, and the membership has since grown to about 300.
The Tampa Tribune and the Pittsburgh news have recognized
the Bay Area Black and Gold Club and the mayor of Pittsburgh has even dedicated a
December game to us in recognition of our dedication to the Steelers. We try to
let our “Pittsburgh family” know what we are doing here in the Tampa Bay
area for those of us fans from the homeland of Pittsburgh as well as fans from
outside of the 'Burgh.
The
Heinz tradition as told by it's originator, Bay Area Black and Gold Club
President, Violet Pelc:
"The ketchup bottle came about when I started to bang it on
the table a few years ago and every one else started it, sure is weird that
Heinz is the name of the stadium now..."
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