WILKES-BARRE TWP. — What does “Arena Yes” mean to you? I’ve heard this question asked a lot over the years and especially now as Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza approaches its 25th anniversary.
I’ve had the opportunity to hear some incredible stories of perseverance and determination from the individuals that helped make the “Arena Yes” dream become a reality.
Upon their reflection, I took a moment recently to reflect back on what that movement meant to me. To be perfectly honest, as a teenager in the 90’s growing up just 10 minutes away from the site the arena is now built, it didn’t mean too much at the time.
Again, I was a teenager, focused on more pressing items rather than the politics behind whether or not to build an arena. What could this building possibly do for me?
I wasn’t much of a concert goer in my younger days — in fact, I think one of the only concerts I ever attended before working at the arena was The Monkees at the Bloomsburg Fair when I was a kid. Spent my Summers at Knoebels and HersheyPark. And of course, I made my annual visit to the F.M. Kirby Center to see Sesame Street Live.
We had the movies, the parks, but no arena. No hockey team. No grand stage.
Growing up, I was more of a sports kid, so the Red Barons coming to Moosic was a game changer. One of my fondest memories came from playing 2nd base at a Teeners’ League baseball game at Lackawanna County Stadium (now PNC Field). I was able to make that short throw to first base to record the final out and win the sectional championship that night.
That memory still lives with me almost 30 years later. I even remember sitting in the last row of the upper deck of the pre-renovated stadium scoring Red Barons games in the program book. I’d have the opportunity to return to that same field several more times throughout my high school career, mostly with the Greater Nanticoke Area marching band for football games and band competitions. Playing at the stadium was a big moment every year, and created memories I still hold dear to this day.
The “Arena Yes” movement first really caught my attention when they announced the Pittsburgh Penguins minor league affiliate was coming to town. As an avid Penguins fan, this would be my opportunity to see the future stars of my beloved team without the travel. The movement now had meaning to me, and although I couldn’t cast my vote, I became a fan of “Arena Yes.”
Once they broke ground, I couldn’t wait to make that trip “up the mall” to see how progress on the construction was coming along. It all started to take shape, watching the news coverage as the finishing touches were put into place. I remember looking back at that horseshoe seating map trying to figure out the best place to see a game from, and I still stand by the fact there’s not a bad seat in the house. Unfortunately, I didn’t get in that first season. In fact, just about any ticket, for any event, was almost impossible to get.
The excitement level of the arena hit my high school outside of the rush of Penguins hockey, as the inaugural High School Roundball Classic involved our Trojans over the Christmas holiday in 1999. Although I didn’t get a chance to attend, I heard from numerous students about that experience, something I am sure my fellow classmates still remember to this day. Similar to the stadium, the arena was a new, grand stage to not only feature professional athletes and rock stars, but showcase the talent we have right here in our own community.
I was finally able to attend some hockey games, wrestling events and concerts in year two. Each time, having the time of my life. But just like that moment I had at the stadium all those years ago, the moment it really clicked for me at the arena was in 2002 when I graduated from Luzerne County Community College.
Having that moment to look out into the crowd as I walked across that stage in the arena, seeing my family and friends, it was truly a moment I’ll remember forever. That moment was life changing, and career path changing.
The arena has been part of my professional career since 2003 where I started as a part-time ticket seller and marketing intern while attending Misericordia. Twenty years and a few different roles later, I now proudly serve as the ASM Global General Manager of Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza. I am proud to work alongside my fellow ASM Global team members along with the Luzerne County Convention Center Authority Board to continue creating these unforgettable experiences for generations to come.
I’m often asked about my favorite events/moments in my tenure at the arena. I could easily mention a number of bucket list artists that I’ve had the opportunity to see perform live or even share a quick chat with, but that’s not it.
It’s seeing opportunities that weren’t there for my generation.
It’s seeing our local high school basketball teams compete for a district championship.
It’s seeing a family reunion at a hockey game.
It’s seeing grandparents share those magical moments with their grandkids at Disney On Ice.
It’s knowing that I’ll be able to share stories with my daughter that her first concert ever was Elton John when she was just 4 months old.
And the best moment of all, is that moment when the lights go out right before any show starts. Still gives me chills every time.
It’s hard to believe, but a whole generation has now grown up with an arena being right here in their own backyard. A whole generation that doesn’t need to travel far to see world class entertainment. Something that shouldn’t be taken for granted — 25 years is a major milestone, but it’s just the beginning.
The next chapter of the arena story is underway. Numerous behind-the-scenes projects have been completed over recent years and several more are underway to keep the arena the shining star it has become. It is our mission to continue to invest in not only the venue’s infrastructure, but also you, the fans. Your experiences are what matters most.
Thank you again to everyone that said and voted “Arena Yes.” The impact this movement has had on this region is beyond words.
NEPA remains my home, and projects like the arena and what it has brought to this area are a main part of the decision to stay. Gone are the days of my teenage self-saying “there’s nothing to do around here.”
NEPA has a lot going on, and I’m proud to be part of the team that helps bring these experiences to our region.
Here’s to the next 25 years!