WHL #1: Portland Winterhawks "1970s Portlandia"

Probably more well known for their exceptional breweries, organic living, and Trailblazer basketball team, it was actually at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum one random Friday night where our plan was hatched.  A quick Google search for all the WHL (Western Hockey League) arenas and before the end of the second period, we had committed to visiting every single one of them.  Why?  Because I love a good checklist.

Each one of our visits will include the following information:

Fans: Taking in the home team and observing the fans.  How they react to the opposing team, how they support their home team, and how they treat a couple of crazy girls on a hockey mission will all be taken into account.

Arena: The overall feel, technology, refreshments, gift shop, and other amenities will be the focus of this rating.

Beer:  Well, let's face it.  It really is all about the beer, right?

Portland Winterhawks at Veterans Memorial Coliseum

Fans:  We attended a home game during a Living Social promotion at the same exact time that the Chicago Bulls were playing the Portland Trailblazers just a stone's throw away.  So, the fans were more interested in the score of THAT game than the one they were watching.  If they weren't shouting out the basketball score, they were knitting scarves or noshing on all sorts of food offerings.

Arena:  It was like a trip back into the 70s.  Men on scaffolding were operating the lights, random cheerleaders that looked like they were my age (which is WAY too old to be dancing on ice), and lack of technology felt like I was back in yesteryear.  Refreshments ranged from the typical stadium type food to some key Portlandia type offerings, such as an artisan veggie panini with homemade potato chips.  

Beer:  Well, let's be honest, this WAS Beervana.  More people were in line for beer than actual food itself.  Unfortunately, I was doing a cleanse during this game so I didn't partake.  Yes, I know.  Shame on me.