Wigwam closing?

"Anderson's school superintendent has proposed closing the central Indiana city's landmark Wigwam high school gym as part of a plan that also includes cutting 65 teachers' jobs.

The Wigwam at Anderson High School is the second-largest high school gymnasium in the world, second only to the Fieldhouse in New Castle.

Closing and selling the 9,000-seat gym was one of the recommendations Superintendent Felix Chow listed at a school board meeting Tuesday, the Herald Bulletin reported.

Chow's plan also includes cutting 65 teacher positions, introducing all-day kindergarten and basing grade promotions on students' competence.

School officials have discussed closing the Wigwam before, but never received board approval. The newspaper said the district paid nearly $350,000 in utility bills for the gym in 2008, while it generated less than $8,000 from events."

-IBJ.com

Sad, sad day. As much as I would hate for them to close this amazing facility, it seems to be what makes sense at this point in time. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to dance at each home game last year as the Indian Maiden. It was an experience I will never forget, and I'm so glad that I was fortunate enough to dance in the Wigwam. I know that no matter what happens, the Indians will be able to make a different gymnasium their home. It will just take time and encouragement from the community. Here's to Anderson's school system, getting back on their feet and improving altogether.