In Miami, George Richards notes Hurricane Irma will be the "first real challenge for a renovated Hard Rock Stadium." The "shade-bearing canopy is perhaps the biggest concern," as it is held down by a series of cables, but "certified to withstand a Category 4 storm." Dolphins Senior VP/Operations Todd Boyan said that while the stadium will have "security during the storm, individuals will not shelter there because of the uncertainty of how the canopy will handle potentially extremely high winds." Meanwhile, the NHL Panthers' BB&T Center will have a "skeleton crew camping out at the arena during the storm." Panthers President & CEO Matthew Caldwell said that he will "be on site throughout just in case" (MIAMI HERALD, 9/8).
ZONE READ: In Seattle, Adam Jude notes the Washington athletic department has "created a premium section in the popular tailgating area that will be open during halftime only to those who have purchased VIP tickets." The "ZonePass" is "available to 500 fans in the premium area of The Zone and costs $79 for a full season." The change "goes into effect starting with Saturday’s home opener." The ZonePass will "cost $10 for this weekend’s game." The area will "open to all fans with a game ticket during the three hours before kickoff" (SEATTLE TIMES, 9/8).
COMMUNITY CENTER: In Chicago, Chris Kuc noted the "final touches are being put on the Blackhawks Community Ice Arena located not far from the United Center." The $60M project that "spans 125,000 square feet is scheduled to be opened Nov. 15 -- on budget and ahead of the original completion date." Blackhawks Chair Rocky Wirtz "footed the bill for the arena" (CHICAGO TRIBUNE, 9/7).
