In L.A., Arash Markazi noted the Clippers are "continuing with their plans to move into their new Inglewood arena" in '24 across the street from the new Rams/Chargers stadium. Despite facing "legal obstacles" from MSG Co., which owns the nearby Forum, Clippers Owner Steve Ballmer and Inglewood Mayor James Butts are "confident the arena will be built." Butts said, "In the next 60 days they're going to have a model of the arena for everybody to see" (L.A. TIMES, 4/16).
RETURN TO GLORY: The NHL Panthers have committed to privately financing the restoration and revitalization of the historic War Memorial Auditorium in Ft. Lauderdale. The project will include two indoor ice rinks and a concert venue capable of accommodating approximately 3,000 people. The restored venue will house NHL-level training facilities and will serve the community by offering youth hockey programs, public skating and figure skating opportunities to people of all ages (Panthers).
LOCAL FLAVOR: In Colorado Springs, Rich Laden reports the city's ballpark, home to the Rookie Advanced Pioneer League Rocky Mountain Vibes, "no longer will be called Security Service Field, and credit union signs recently were removed" after the Security Service Federal Credit Union of San Antonio "ended a venue naming rights agreement" that began in '05. Vibes President & GM Chris Phillips said that the club is "finalizing a new naming rights deal with a Colorado company that has a major presence" in Colorado Springs. He "declined to reveal the new sponsor's identity, but an announcement is planned in early May" (Colorado Spring GAZETTE, 4/17).
