On Thursday the 16th, city officials voted to demolish it. This has been met with much outcry, as supporters of keeping the arena feel it should be labeled as a historic landmark due to its unique architecture.
One fan however, has a unique idea about how to memorialize the Igloo.
Let the arena be torn down, but etch the image of it faintly into the glass windows of the Consol Energy Center, so that fans will forever be able to remember where "home" was for so many years.
Current technology has helped this idea spread like wildfire.
I first saw the idea on twitter, as I follow the person who came up with it. Next thing I know, it was on a very popular Penguins blog, Pensblog (a site that has been mentioned by players & coaches on the team). They posted the idea, asking those who also thought it was a good idea to help spread the word, to get the idea out.
As I already said, it spread like crazy.
Later that day,Pensblog had to add another post. The idea was being mentioned on local radio stations such as 105.9 The X & 93.7 The Fan. It has gained support of those who could get it well known within the local area.
A Facebook group was created by the originator for the idea (at the time of this posting it had 1,258 members).
All this within a matter of days.
This is not only an example of how current technology has allowed an idea to spread, but also the passion of a fan base wanting to remember a location we have called home for so long.
I am behind this idea as much as it is possible to be. I realize unless a miracle happens, the Igloo is gone. And that is alright with me because the new arena is beautiful and I can't wait to attend games in there for the next 30 plus years.
But the Civic Arena deserves to be remembered. Too many memories and amazing hockey moments have happened there for it to be destroyed without some sort of remembrance.
I'm gonna post a link to this on the FB page :-)
ReplyDeleteThis is a really awesome idea!!!!! I really hope it happens!
ReplyDeleteOook I definately completely agree with the idea of etching the image into the glass of the new arena... The igloo should be remembered, but my only concern is if we do it with the igloo on the Consol Energy Center, shouldnt we so something with Three Rivers on Hiens Field or PNC Ballpark? Or is there already something there?? Hmmm food for thought!
ReplyDeleteThree Rivers was replaced by two separate stadiums. But they did leave the pylon for the one gate, it's more near Heinz Field.
ReplyDeleteForbes Field, the old Pirates stadium, still has the outfield wall up & people go there each year on the anniversary of Mazeroski's world series winning hit.
With the location of those two previous places, something was able to be left standing, and that may not be possible with the Igloo, hence a different way of remembering it.
This is a good idea. Hopefully it will work out and they can find a way to keep some piece of the igloo around. Great way of showing how the new way of communicating in the world today has greatly gotten this idea up and running
ReplyDeleteI think that remembering the arena is a huge part of Penguin history. Its a place where many championships and memories were built, I agree that it is a huge part of not only Pittsburgh Sport's, but also Pittsburgh in general. I remember going to my first concert as a child at Mellon Arena, thus making a big point in my life as well. I think at the least putting the sketch of the arena on the glass is a great idea, if that being the least can be done. Sure keeping the arena up would cost money and would most likely be a waste of money for the city, in times where money is tough. But, some how keeping the "spirit of the arena," would be a great thing for Pittsburgh fans
ReplyDeleteAlthough the idea of keeping the Igloo up is a tanatlizing idea, it won't really serve a purpose. I wish I could find the Penblog post about their differnt ideas for the Mellon Arena! Anyway, the Igloo has served it's purpose and it's sad to see it go, but it's time for the city and Penguins Nation to move forward!!!! Destiny Has a New Home!!!!!
ReplyDeleteI think the Igloo needs to go, but etching an image of the Igloo onto the Consol Engery Center is an awesome i hope it happens.
ReplyDeleteIt would be nice if we could keep the Igloo around because of all the wonderful memories but I think we as Pens fans have to start looking toward the future and build memories in the new arena. However, the idea of the Igloo etched in the glass would look great and would keep its memory alive inside the new arena.
ReplyDelete