Fans attending tonight’s Fleetwood Mac concert at the TD Garden in Boston are asked to come to the venue at least an hour early due to increased security measures in and around the building. According to the venue, no bags will be allowed inside the building. As reported by the Boston Herald on Tuesday, the venue has taken extra precautions to ensure the safety of concert goers, in the wake of Monday’s tragic events.
Here is the news article from Tuesday’s Boston Herald, which describes the increased security measures.
Fans asked to come to the Garden early with tonight’s added security
By Mark Daniels
Boston Herald
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Fans coming to tonight’s Bruins-Buffalo Sabres matchup at the TD Garden can expect a heavy increase of security and officials are asking ticket holders to arrive early.
Tonight’s game, which starts at 7:30, is the first major sporting event in the city since Monday’s Boston Marathon bombings and multiple security measures in and around the building are in effect. Though gates usually open an hour before game-time, doors are opening at 6 p.m. tonight. Fans won’t be allowed to bring in bags to the arena tonight or during tomorrow’s Fleetwood Mac concert.
“We, along with everyone, were devastated by yesterday’s tragic event. Our thoughts and prayers remain with all of those affected,” said Amy Latimer, President of TD Garden. “The TD Garden is working with state and local law enforcement to enhance our already diligent security measures and continue to provide a safe environment at all our events. We are asking our fans, media and staff to allow extra time when arriving due to increased security measures.”
Police officers, police dogs and law enforcement vehicles could be seen outside the Garden. Those parking in the underground garage, below the arena, will have their cars searched – inside and out. Media members and Garden employees were inspected and waved with a metal-detecting wand. One security official told the Herald that people with tickets will go through the same security procedures.
When tonight’s game starts, there will be plenty of support for the victims of Monday’s tragedy. Both the Bruins and Sabres will be wearing ‘Boston Strong decals on their helmets and the Garden will be illuminated with blue and yellow lighting. Prior to the National Anthem, a ‘Boston Strong’ themed video will be played followed by a moment of silence to honor the victims and first responders.
The Bruins organization also recently established One Fund Boston, to raise money to help those families most affected by Monday’s events. Bruins owner Jeremy Jacobs has pledged to donate $100,000 and the TD Garden, NHL and NHLPA will be making donations in the amount of $50,000. The combined total of all parties will be $250,000.
There will also be raffles and places to donate money to One Fund Boston during tonight’s game. Brad Marchand will be raffling off his own TD Garden suite for the team’s first playoff game, with all proceeds going to the Richard family of Dorchester, whose son Martin passed away.
Bruins players and staff have also donated 80 tickets for to first responders.
