The new Yankee Stadium will be ready for the 2009 season. It replaces the 85-year-old epic arena located at 161st St. and River Ave., which has hosted many memorable events over the years.
      This stadium, built at the cost of $1.6 billion, will offer the visiting public many contrasts. The granite and limestone exterior wall is reminiscent of the original structure built in 1923. Monument Park, which celebrates Yankee heroes of the past, will remain and the original facade from the 1923 structure will be added. The field dimensions will be the same as the current ballpark. Many improvements for the comfort and convenience of the public have been added; including more restrooms, a conference area, restaurants, a huge video screen, and a grand hall offering huge retail space to the public. Opening Day 2009 should be a day to remember for Yankee fans and all sports fans alike. It's the start of a new chapter for the Yankees. Will this ballpark be the site of so many memorable moments as has the old? Will the ghosts of Ruth, Gehrig, DiMaggio, Mantle and so many others aid the Yankees in their attempt to rise to dominance again? Only time will tell if the futility of not winning a world's championship for the past 8 years has finally run its course.
      Regardless of what the future holds for the Yankees and their fans, the new Yankee Stadium will be a constant reminder of their glorious past as well as a window to the future.