2009 Hall of Fame Enshrinement to take place at Symphony Hall

Date: 3/9/2009

By Ashlene Ferris

Staff Intern



SPRINGFIELD -- Mayor Domenic Sarno declared 2009 a year of firsts -- the first year the Basketball Hall of Fame will host the Enshrinement at Symphony Hall and the anticipated induction of Michael Jordan.

Sarno and Cindy Anzalotti, President of Springfield Performing Arts Development Corporation (SPADC), joined John Doleva, president and CEO of the Basketball Hall of Fame, as Doleva announced that the enshrinement will take place at Symphony Hall on Sept. 11.

Sarno said the key aspect is historic Springfield. "We'll put Springfield once again on the national stage," he added.

The Enshrinement is a global event that brings national media attention and gives a unique opportunity to showcase Springfield and Symphony Hall -- the historic city building that is managed by the SPADC.

"I am so excited that [the Enshrinement] is happening at a building the city and the community owns," Anzalotti said. "All support is towards putting our best foot forward and putting Springfield back on top."

Symphony Hall was renovated in 2004 and is considered to be an architectural gem, built to host double the capacity available of the Hall of Fame.

A festive pep rally will take place at noon on Sept. 11, welcoming any available members of the class of 2009 to the birthplace of basketball.

This event is free and open to the public.

Tickets for the event cost between $150 and $1,000. There is currently a waiting list of 180 people. Other ticket packages are available consisting of the Honors Package which is $1,300 per guest and the V.I.P package which is $1,000 per guest. To purchase tickets call 231-5550.