The XL Center was opened in 1975. Affectionately known as the Hartford Civic Center (it's previous name sake) it has now exceeded it's life expectancy by 5 years. With the arena's contract running through 2013 the CDA, the city of Hartford and the State of Connecticut can do 1 of 3 things when the arena is turned back over to them: 1. They can end up with the likes of a New Haven with no arena at all 2. They can continue to "patch up" the arena and be in the same boat in another 10-15 years with no hope of luring another professional team to the state. Or 3. They can step up and build a new arena which will last 30+ years and put us on the same level as every other city in North America. Although the ultimate goal is the return of our beloved Whalers a new arena can still be a success without a major league team. The MTS Centre located in Winnipeg, Ma. is the 19th busiest arena in North America and turns a hefty profit year after year while the BOK Center in Tulsa, Ok. has been nominated for "arena of the year" for a 3rd consecutive year and is ranked #8 in ticket sales in North America. Also arena's while helping provide more entertainment more pleasurably it could also act as an economic engine. The Verizon Center has spurred once vacant city blights into bustling storefronts and restaurants. The time is right for a true renaissance of Hartford and the entire State. No more playing second fiddle to a New York or Boston, we can be known for more than just being the city between those two after-mentioned cities. It's time for some progression, vision, passion, and creativeness in this State. Let's make this happen. In the words of former Mayor and Whalers fan, Mike Peters, Go Hartford!