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JLA Gets Knocked Down
by Paul on 12/12/06 at 08:47 AM ET
Comments (5)
from the Detroit Free Press,
Talk about a sucker punch. Bet Joe Louis—the arena—didn’t see that one coming.
Maxim magazine posted a list of the 10 worst sports arenas on its Web site, “buildings that are practically begging to be condemned.”
And the Joe was ranked No. 1.
Said Maxim: “We’re on board with anything named after the great Joe Louis ... But his name/legacy, as well as the Red Wings, deserve better than a crumbling facility in a scary ... neighborhood.
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Comments
Have they even been to the Joe? It may not be in the best of shape, but it certainly isn’t i a terrible neighborhood! Detroit is always near the top of their negative lists, though I doubt they have ever sent anyone here except for the Super Bowl party last year.
Posted by Matt from Royal Oak, MI on 12/12/06 at 10:14 AM ET
I know it isn’t the newest of facilities, and it certainly lacks some of the more modern amenities, but JLA is a great place to watch hockey. I have yet to sit in a seat with a bad view. And to me, that’s why I am going...to see the game. I couldn’t care less if I can’t get a double mocha chai latte with sprinkles.
Posted by tim on 12/12/06 at 11:14 AM ET
First, I was unaware that Maxim was a knowledgeable hockey authority.
Second, remember how much Comerica Park was criticized for lacking the ambiance and atmosphere of Tiger Stadium...and how people flock to Wrigley Field, even though it is falling apart? People like new and shiny in computers, cars, and jewelry. In arenas they like to feel the memories and the nearness of the past. New is nice, but very sterile until a little dirt gets ground in and the nicks show from wear and tear.
Posted by Baroque from Michigan on 12/12/06 at 11:48 AM ET
It’s not pretty, it’s not comfortable, it has few, if no, amenities, and it’s an amazing place to watch a hockey game.
I’ll grant Maxim only one point--the riverfront is no longer the place to be, so the Joe feels somewhat isolated from the Foxtown area, but as Detroit goes, it’s very safe.
Cobo’s always stocked with security guards and cops, if the People Mover’s not working, the riverwalk is safe, and the Riverfront Apartments nearby mean there’s a presence there as well for all those who feel jittery when they’re in the 48226 zip code. Or, if you’re like me, it’s just safe, period.
Otherwise, be prepared to walk up those ever-so-steep cement steps and get crammed into a small seat with no legroom so that you can watch a game while feeling like you’re all but on top of the ice.
Posted by George James Malik from South Lyon, MI on 12/12/06 at 06:32 PM ET
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Honestly, the hype Daniels/FSN is giving this is irritating. Just call the game. It IS about the game, isn’t it?
Posted by Ronnie on 12/12/06 at 09:55 AM ET