Digest -- U.Va. Top News Daily

Photos by Dan Addison

Chad Cooper, a steel worker for C.P. Buckner Steel Co. of Durham, N.C., affixes his signature to the last piece of structural steel put in place at the John Paul Jones Arena on June 22.

Arena Beam Decorated With Hancocks

Employees of the 18 contractors working on the construction of the John Paul Jones Arena lined up June 22 to sign the last piece of structural steel to be added to the top of the building. The 35-foot I-beam was adorned with a small pine tree, symbolizing good luck and safe passage; an American flag, representing the iron workers’ support for U.S. troops; and a Cavaliers banner, celebrating the teams that will compete in the arena. As the beam was lowered into place, Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the U.S.A.” played on a portable sound system, followed by “The Good Ol’ Song.” About 450 people, including construction workers, sports officials and University administrators, applauded as the final beam was bolted into place. Men’s basketball coach David Leitao signed miniature basketballs that were given out as souvenirs for the occasion. The arena is scheduled for completion by June 2006. (June 24)

As a tradition, the workers sign their names to the last beam bolted into place. The beam is under the east end of the main concourse at the arena. Before the beam was put into place, Athletic Director Craig K. Littlepage praised the workers for their efforts and said they were part of a team that, working together, can do more than each individual member.