BEHIND THE SCENES INTERVIEW WITH ED MINARDI 

Background Questions 

What is your name?

Edmond Minardi

What different jobs did you work before coming to Comcast-Spectacor?

I was a auto shop teacher at Edward Bok Technical High School and I served in the army reserves with the rank of Command Sergent Major.

What are your hobbies?

I model airplanes and collect automobile hood ornaments and car logos.

Spectrum Questions

What year did you start working at the Spectrum? What position?

October of 1975.

What was your first impression of the Spectrum?

It was an awesome place to work. I met so many terrific people while working in that fabulous building.

When you got hired, what was your job?

I was hired as a part-time event staff security guard, and then sometime during the 80’s I became a full-time building services security guard.

What’s your favorite Spectrum moment?

Getting an autograph from Frank Sinatra.

Did you meet any famous people, athletes, or bands in person?

In addition to Frank Sinatra, I got to meet Elvis, Luciano Pavarotti, and Bruce Springsteen just to name a few.

Are there any little known facts about the Spectrum?

During one of the Circus events that we had at the Spectrum a lion escaped from it’s cage. It took the lion tamer thirty minutes to capture the lion. I still have nightmares about that lion.

During the “Great Flood” of the 80’s, the Spectrum was swamped with three feet of water. I had to stand on a desk just to just to get upstairs.  

When you first heard the announcement of the Spectrum’s destruction, how did this make you feel?

When I heard of the announcement I was deeply saddened by the news. It was a end of an era. All the memories and history that I experienced for 35 years would be gone. 

When the Spectrum was being destroyed how did this make you feel?

When the wrecking ball was knocking on the walls of the Spectrum, it felt like it was beating a death toll.  

Do you think that the Spectrum should have been demolished? If not, what should the company do with the arena?

I would leave the Spectrum as a historical monument or change it into a museum.

Philly Live Questions

Are you anticipating the creation of Philly Live?

Yes, this will be a “Big Boom” for people of Philadelphia. It will give people of Philadelphia jobs all year around.  

How should Philly Live show homage to the Spectrum?

I think that Philly Live should create a restaurant or museum that incorporates pictures, artifacts, and memorabilia that reflects on the greatness of the Spectrum.

How should the Spectrum be remembered?

#1 Showplace in America.