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If you're not going to New Orleans, let the Super Bowl come here By JILL BRISKEY Mail Tribune As football widows hit the malls and department stores today, legions of fans will watch the St. Louis Rams and New England Patriots battle for control of the pigskin. When the comforts of your own sofa and armchair aren't enough, fans can head to restaurants and bars to watch what usually becomes the biggest television event of the year. Several Rogue Valley businesses will offer discount drinks, meals, prizes and contests for customers who come and watch Super Bowl XXXVI at their establishments. "We're the most happening place in town," joked Tom Dalton, assistant manager at Bleachers. "Being a sports bar and all, it's a pretty huge day." Whether it's the pre-shows, snazzy commercials or the match itself, Dalton said the annual event drew in quite a crowd last year. He expects to see big numbers today. Joe's Sports Bar & Grill also attracted a large number of customers during last year's event, said district manager Pat DeMarr. "It was exceptional for us. We were just full the whole day," he added. However, DeMarr said customers who visit his establishment enjoy a more subdued environment than typical "sports" bars. "We're also a dinner house. It's more of a relaxed atmosphere than most people might think when they hear the term sports bar," he said. Other businesses hosting special event for Super Bowl fans include TimeOut Sports Bar, Chadwicks Pub & Sports Bar and Characters at the Red Lion Hotel, all in Medford. Two Pines Smokehouse in Shady Cove will also feature specials. This year, the Oregon Department of Transportation worked with several sports bars and taverns in the state to ensure responsible service. Although no fatal alcohol-related crashed took place in the state last year, Mothers Against Drunk Driving report that 60 percent of traffic fatalities on Super Bowl Sundays in the United States are liquor-related. Oregon State Police are urging football fans who drink to observe the following tips and avoid potential tragedy. � Eat high protein and carbohydrate foods such as cheese and meat that quickly absorb alcohol in the stomach. � If you must drive, stop drinking alcohol and start drinking coffee about two hours before it's time to go home. � Arrange for a ride home for a friend who's had too much to drink. � If you do plan do drink, make alternate plans to get home such as a designated driver or a taxi. Mail Tribune Home | Ottaway Newspapers, Inc. | Dow Jones & Co., Inc. | Privacy | Contact Us Copyright � 2001 Mail Tribune, Inc.