Pantagraph.com | News | Coliseum loss for August $251,000

Note: All views and opinions expressed in reader comments are solely those of the individual submitting the comment, and not those of the Pantagraph or its staff.

New to the Area wrote on Oct 26, 2007 8:51 AM:

" I moved here with reservations of there not being the amount of culture that there is in Peoria. Glad to see B/N stepping up and offering different things for the community to do. The Art Center in Downtown Bloomington is a nice addition and so is the Coliseum. The Civic Center in Peoria always offered great shows and with time and the support of the community the Coliseum will be able to do the same. " "

Anonymous wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:20 AM:

" Hey... Whatever happened to stupid argument people were making a few years ago that the coliseum needs to pay its workers even more... i.e. a "living wage"? Maybe the coliseum couldn't afford it? Nahhhhh. Too obvious. "

Okay... wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:26 AM:

" we get the point... the Coliseum keeps losing money, it's in huge debt, it has been since it opened... why don't we not bother with reporting the "earnings" (or lack there-of) unless it actually breaks even or makes money some month (oh wait, that will NEVER happen)... "

Bean Counter wrote on Oct 24, 2007 3:27 PM:

" I cant wait to see the October numbers ! "

To: Get with the program wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:58 PM:

" That would be a good show, but you are wrong about the size of the I-Wireless Center in Moline (Quad Cities-formerly The Mark), which explains why the show is going there. The I-Wireless Center holds 12,000 capacity, the Coliseum holds 7,200. "

Fitter to: Rita K wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:37 PM:

" I have not been in the arena, but I assume that it has a sprinkler system. If it does have sprinklers, then the concern about fire is greatly reduced. Fire deaths in sprinklered buildings are virtually zero. In terms of fire, you are safer in a sprinklered building than in your own home. Much safer. "

get with the program wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:27 PM:

" I don't understand why the Coliseum is not trying to bring bigger names and bands. I have a 4 year old girl who loves Hannah Montana I bought tickets to go to the concert in Moline. The Moline arena and our arena is about the same size. Now why could Bloomington have gotten Hannah to play here. Every seat at the Moline arena was sold out and we all have heard the news regarding how fast her tickets are selling. Come on (to our Coliseum) get with the program. Our town doesn't want to listen to 80's bands anymore. Get some decent people so that beautiful building will not go to waste. "

justwondering wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:23 PM:

" i'm sure i'll get bashed for this but........has anyone considered how great the arena is for our youth,with the youth hockey program???? anything for the kids and i'm all for it....thanks judy and tom!! "

Rita K. wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:06 PM:

" Has anyone ever wondered how people would get out of the Coliseum if there was a fire?? A friend and I attended the Rickles show.. and were seated on the "floor"...there were 24 chairs "locked" together per row and at least 10 rows...from front to back...how would we all have gotten out of there , if a fire had started...there was barely room for legs between the rows of seats...and only one exit that I saw from the floor, it lead to a hallway and exit door...and there were several handicapped people besides myself....Has the "fire-inspector" really approved this kind of seating??? Once was enough for me won't go back!!! "

unknown wrote on Oct 22, 2007 5:04 PM:

" This is what I would like to ask the Coliseum management.with Blommington-Normal haveing such a diverse african American and Hispanic community, why are there not more act and entertainment for them,Because let me tell you,These groups will come and pay well for something they like. and also our huge college community. "

This is what make it worse!!! wrote on Oct 22, 2007 4:04 PM:

" Lack of events?!?! HA!!!!! Real Booking Managers have been walking up to the Coliseum, handing in resumes, credentials, and event histories, asking for the opportunity to help bring events to the coliseum.... and they don't even get a reply!?!?! Can you explain that Coliseum? Why are you not contacting Booking Managers, and promoters who contact you to bring events there!?!?! This is what needs to truly be investigated by the city!!! How do I know? My friend is a booking manager for Keyshia Cole, and Kanye West's GOOD Music Inc, he turned in his credentials, and never heard a word. "

Yeah Right! wrote on Oct 22, 2007 3:57 PM:

" Dylan sucks??? As he goes laughing all the way to the bank! "

To: Milorad wrote on Oct 22, 2007 3:54 PM:

" that's why you here doing God knows what and Dylan is world famous! "

Milorad wrote on Oct 22, 2007 12:51 PM:

" Dylan sucks! He couldn't sing in the 60's and he can't sing now "

Interstate Center wrote on Oct 21, 2007 7:57 PM:

" All arena events could be held at the Interstate Center that makes money but the City of Bloomington did not to connect with this business that has good parking. Why was this location over looked in place of a new arena. We would have no debt today if the Interstate Center was our arena. Was it certain people in City management that put a stop to using the Center. "

all you people do is complain - wrote on Oct 21, 2007 10:40 AM:

" Bob Dylan, a true American icon, Elvis Costello and Amos Lee sang at the Colliseum last night and rocked the place...where were you whiners??? The tickets were reasonable, things were pretty well organized, but there were seats that needed to be filled up. It would be nice if everyone got out once in a while and savored some culture instead of eating out at chain restaurants and watching WWF all the time. "

MCB wrote on Oct 19, 2007 7:26 PM:

" I completely agree that there is a serious lack of promoting the events that we do pull into the USCC. Despite what i have read from some of the one-sided comments below, this was/is/will be a great addition to our community. I do find it funny that the same people complaining that it isn't making any money are staging what could be considered a boycott against something that has potential to benefit them and their loved ones. Also, do you think that it is good publicity for a venue to have members of the community constantly bad-mouthing our newest attraction by writing in to the local paper's website???? I would personally rather live in a community that embraces what we have rather than criticizing it!!! "

To Jeffer wrote on Oct 19, 2007 10:30 AM:

" yes, Hanna Montana. Great Idea "

Lets Rock....AC/DC wrote on Oct 19, 2007 7:41 AM:

" Ive seen Def Leppard, Head East, and next week will see Sammy Hagar all at the colliseum since it opened. Def Leppard had a good turnout. Would love to see AC/DC. They would rock the town. I like the colliseum and the acts they are bringing in. Keep it up. "

To: It Would wrote on Oct 18, 2007 8:31 AM:

" Actually he did insist upon playing to 4000 max. I guess he prefers smaller shows. "

It would wrote on Oct 17, 2007 1:45 PM:

" be a much different story had the folks calling the shots made better judgement calls in lining up talent to the public. In a nutshell, the place is just plain mismanaged. Sammy Hargar sold out in hour (or half an hour depending on who ya talk to) BUT he's only playing to half the capacity. What's wrong with that? I seriously doubt Mr. Hagar said . . . "Oh no! I will only play to half capacity for B/N." Why did they choose a dead hockey league? Why not ECHL or AHL? IHL has absolutely nothing to offer (not to mention a team that came in last among only 4 teams . . .) Add that with location and parking issues - voilla! Instant crap!!!! "

funny wrote on Oct 17, 2007 11:35 AM:

" i think its funny! who was shocked when it was not making money can i see a show of hands?? um not so much, not for many of us! this was a HUGE DUH factor! as in the town is broke politicians are liers, and that coliseum is never going to make our town any money!! LOL like big FAT DUH!!!!!!!!!!! "

To: Ode To Judy wrote on Oct 16, 2007 2:11 PM:

" A haiku to you: Another message board malcontent, retired or unemployed. Too scared to stand up in front of the city council, too much time on your hands. Spreading lies, very unwise. "

Ode to Judy wrote on Oct 16, 2007 12:55 PM:

" Why did they build the Judy Dome? The answer is, Judy's hockey team owner relative needed a home This white elephant is a cryin'g shame, We are entitled to fix some blame Here we sit with it in mega arrears, Only wishing we can still afford some beer Tom and Judy hang your head low You ignored the voters , Judy you're gone,,,now Tom, it's time for you to go! "

to enough wrote on Oct 16, 2007 1:08 AM:

" five city council members is all it takes to vote him out "

Enough wrote on Oct 15, 2007 10:57 PM:

" I am really disappointed , missing that rock icon Ted Nugent. Would have been great listening to his foul mouth, gun loving diatribes and slamming all left side politicians. Bet that made the stalwart right wing republican base here in B-N, McLean county proud. Too bad only 1800 showed up. Come on out of the closet and pay a few bucks to support one of your own. just what does it take to recall tom hamilton?? Angry voters ousted the council who backed the coliseum, quit writing comments on here and get rid of this guy. "

Marketing wrote on Oct 15, 2007 9:57 PM:

" Have to agree with the marketing / Promotion. . . 1/2 of the arena was 1/2 full for LCS. Great comedy . . . did anyone know it was even happening? "

what wrote on Oct 15, 2007 7:16 PM:

" an embarrassment "

To: Whenwillwelearn wrote on Oct 15, 2007 6:44 PM:

" Sounds like thousands of mothers and their toddlers with tickets to the upcoming 'Elmo' shows are braver than you, venturing to dangerous downtown Bloomington for entertainment. "

whenwillwelearn wrote on Oct 15, 2007 5:14 PM:

" Gee, the coliseum is still losing money. Since 2/3 of the bloomington voters said no to the coliseum, should this surprise anyone? Our former mayor really stuck it to us with this one. Who in their right mind would go to an event at the coliseum when it is in a crime infested part of town? The council needs to dump this "money pit" and put the money toward police, fire, ems and schools where it would benefit everyone! "

It isn't the Colliseum wrote on Oct 15, 2007 1:20 PM:

" It's the promotion of events. Totally lacking. Why can't they sell out a rock concert in place that holds less than 10,000 people? Because they DO NOT know how to promote. Come on people. Would you rather go to Peoria, Champaign, Chicago or Bloomington to see a show? "

To packerhater wrote on Oct 15, 2007 1:14 PM:

" Dylan a washed up hasbeen? You can argue all you want about the Colliseum being in deficit, but before you call Dylan a "washed up hasbeen" (whether you like his music or not, notwithstanding), I suggest you go see one of his shows. And, then talk your smack. "Washed up" or "hasbeen" are two adjectives which are non-applicable in this case. Of course, you are entitled to your own opinion, but so what. "

ME wrote on Oct 15, 2007 11:31 AM:

" Why not led the fed's buy it for ewither a National Guard or Reserve Armory? Time to cut our losses with the Judydome. "

c.a.t.s. wrote on Oct 14, 2007 8:06 PM:

" your right The Referemdum was not for approval. It was to gauge how much interest there was and they deemed that there was enough. it wasnt a they vote it was 4-4 with judy casting the go ahead vote. well lets see here. if the Referemdum vote was a no wouldnt you think that meant that there was no interest ?? wouldnt you think that meant that if the people voted no that they wouldnt show up to support it?? its a NO BRAINER.. tom has lied to you all again it will cost us more than the 74 mil. that he states.. it will be more like 125-225 mil..toms not adding in the 1.6 - 3 mil. loss every year to the total. watch and see.. is it really worth that much too see 3rd rate intertainment???i dont think so.. close the doors now and take the 74 mil, loss and payoff the bonds..then sell the dump. the money you save will pay for the gas to go see 1st rate intertainment..else where.. "

Sell wrote on Oct 14, 2007 2:36 PM:

" Why not sell this place to an investor? Seriously! Put the burden on someone else's shoulders. Let them set up a management team that actually knows what they are doing. Which would probably mean more events and money for the businesses around the arena. The tax payers would no longer be on the hook and neither would the city. Why is this such a bad idea? Could someone explain to me why this would not work. I have to believe that there is an investor group out there somewhere in the US that could do a much better job than what Tom and his hand picked cronies are doing. "

To: TO bashers post 1 and 2 wrote on Oct 13, 2007 7:09 PM:

" Well I don't want to pay for the golf courses and swimming pools. My kids are grown so I don't want to pay for schools either. So are you saying because you didn't want this that it shouldn't be? My property taxes pay for a lot of things in this city that I don't use. So what's the big deal. The Referemdum was not for approval. Get a clue. It was to gauge how much interest there was and they deemed that there was enough. It wasn't a 51% wins kind of thing. Gheeze bashers just get over it already. It's built. "

packerhater wrote on Oct 13, 2007 2:12 PM:

" Bob Dylan?, Elvis Costello?, Sammy Hagar? , I'm gonna go out on a limb and say the Coliseum will also lose money in October. I thought all these bums were dead! How old is the person that books these events anyway? Maybe they could also book Tracy Chapman, Boy George, or maybe even the Stray Cats. Or I got it, this would be perfect; how about if the booked The Partridge Family Reunion Special. I mean, if all they book is washed up hasbeens that haven't released anything in ten to twenty years, surely my ideas would be perfect for the Coliseum. "

BJ wrote on Oct 13, 2007 1:06 PM:

" What do you all say that we have a picket around Hamilton's house or city hall? The citizens of Bloomington have heard enough lies out of his mouth "

re;To: Hey Super wrote on Oct 13, 2007 1:01 PM:

" ROFLMAO!!!! It sounds like there is a lot of love for this sad joke. I left Bloominton before this was built. Not one penny comes from me but you suckers just keep going and going and going. ROFLMAO!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "

Comment wrote on Oct 13, 2007 12:33 PM:

" Who cares. The city is not budging on this. "

longtimegone wrote on Oct 13, 2007 9:56 AM:

" Another month ,another deficit. Who cares. The taxpayers will cover it. "

Why Not... wrote on Oct 13, 2007 9:34 AM:

" Why not put the Arena under the management of this Marquis guy and his staff over at the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts? We are already paying the freight for the BCPA staff, and it seems like the BCPA is at least breaking even on their operations. I've heard over and over the "summer is slow" argument, but the BCPA had lots of rental events over the summer. Maybe this is the difference between amatuers and pros running entertainment facilities. "

To Super wrote on Oct 13, 2007 9:14 AM:

" Why are you reading this if you are spending all of your time looking for whiners? Just WHAT is there to enjoy in this dump of a place to live that is ruined more and more everyday. Maybe YOU should try to live somewhere else so you can see just what a horrible place this is! "

To: Hey Super wrote on Oct 13, 2007 8:59 AM:

" Complaining about spelling is the best you have? Why don’t you get some facts about the other 20 things the city spends money on that don’t make a profit. Several of these have already cost this city MILLIONS. Why do we not hear you whining about those things? Short answer: You would look like a fool – Like you bashers do whining about something already built. It’s like listening to my 3-year old. You Coliseum bashers are typical of the liberals in today’s society that just jump a bandwagon and ride regardless of the facts or big picture. The other poster was right when they said that no one cares what you bashers think. It’s built, we love it, get over it. "

william wrote on Oct 13, 2007 8:17 AM:

" Todays article in the pantagraph states that five council members voted in favor of the arena and are no longer in office. Actually the vote was 4 to 4 with judy casting the tie breaker. Remember? "

a basher and proud of it wrote on Oct 13, 2007 7:48 AM:

" Why shouldn't we bash? The Coliseum was forced down our throats with virtual promises it would never become the kind of financial nightmare it has become, and figures to be for YEARS. It was built in a lousy part of town, with little convenient parking. It's too small to consistently attract premium acts that will instead go to the facility in our sister city to the north and west. Worst of all, in my opinion, is the trashy "acts" the Arena must rely on to even break even, namely minor league hockey, arena football, monster truck races, and the like. What a shame for a community that deserves better! "

bloomington resident wrote on Oct 13, 2007 7:01 AM:

" does anyone seem surprised at this? guess they are going to have to raise property taxes to pay for this. anyone ever hear of taxation without representation? lol "

to:to bashers post 2 wrote on Oct 13, 2007 3:38 AM:

" i dont want to. i said that with my vote..you think just like judy and tom you dont care what people think as long as your happy!! who stuck the silver spoon in your mouth? well i care! i care about the roads around here what are you people going to do when the roads on the eastside look like those on the west..oh i know you wont care because you can go see football and hockey.. what are you going to do when the crime rate gets out of hand??? i know blow it off and go to a game .. get real people.. going to a game is nice but please is it really worth 122 mil.???? i dont think so and neither does the voteing public. "

to: to bashers post 1 wrote on Oct 13, 2007 3:37 AM:

" lets see if i get this one right? " Something you Coliseum bashers really need to get through your head: "No one cares that you don't want the Coliseum." ok your right there we voted no and it was built anyway..we can thank judy and tom for that one.. yes its obvious its there! " So if you don't want to go to the events there, don't. Again, no one cares what you think or if you are present." you know what your right again we dont go there and wont. "Those of us going and seeing the Extreme and the Prairie Thunder are having a ball and thank Judy and Tom Hamilton every day" well good for you. how about you pay for it?? "

so tell us tom??? wrote on Oct 13, 2007 12:41 AM:

" where did you go to school we all want to know?? i want to pull my kids out of there..and when are you going to stop with the lies?? lets see if i have this right or not and please correct me if im wrong.. we paid 35.8 mil for this dump right? its going to cost us 74 mil. to payoff the bonds right? and you say its going to lose 1.6 mil. a year untill its paid for right?? thats another 48 mil. right?( i dont beleave its 1.6 i think it will be higher more like 2-3 mil.) but i will give you 1.6 so lets see 74 + 48 = 122 am i right there tom ?? 122 mil wow i think its time to close the doors and take our losses!!! and you need to step down. no more lies and no more tom and no more judy dome we need to get this on the next ballot.. "

Big Brother wrote on Oct 13, 2007 12:33 AM:

" Tom Hamilton has broken the public trust in its government to make decisions for the taxpayers. The citizens of bloomington do not trust the mayor, city council, and especially the city manager to make fiscally sound decisions that are in the best interest of the city. He pushes the city elected officials to raise taxes to cover up for his mistakes. The citizens of Bloomington will not sit still untill Hamilton is fired. "

To Radio Fan wrote on Oct 13, 2007 12:17 AM:

" I also stopped listening to WJBC due to Beth Wisman. Tired of hearing a 20-something from Kentucky acting like she know everything. Plus they cancelled Rush and put on Alan Colmbs - Horrible. I care less whe Colmbs or Wisman thinks and care even less about the Cubs, espically on a Cardinal Network station. 1470 WMBD in Peoria has great programming and I listen to that all day. I miss that little fox Colleen Reynolds and Greg Halblieb and Scott Laughlin, but 1470 does a great job. "

to:Here we go again wrote on Oct 13, 2007 12:16 AM:

" OH NO TOTO ! someone found out about our club. c.a.v.e. we will have to change the name now..lets call it c.a.t.s. (no offence toto) for those of you who support tom i'll fill you in it stands for. Citizens Against Toms Stupidity.. so come on boys and girls jump on this wagon is on a roll!!! "

Hey, "super" wrote on Oct 13, 2007 12:13 AM:

" So.... you're sick of us whiners, but you read and post? OK......while you're at it, learn to spell!! "

To Bashers wrote on Oct 13, 2007 12:10 AM:

" Something you Coliseum bashers really need to get through your head: No one cares that you don't want the Coliseum. This is obvious since it was built and is not going anywhere. So if you don't want to go to the events there, don't. Again, no one cares what you think or if you are present. Those of us going and seeing the Extreme and the Prairie Thunder are having a ball and thank Judy and Tom Hamilton every day. There are many City services that don't make a profit, so why are you not crying about these as well? Does anyone know how much the "new" cultural district has cost us? Get a hobby or find something better to do than cry in here everytime the Pantagraph tries to rouse up emotions by printing articles like this one. "

Here we go again... wrote on Oct 12, 2007 9:23 PM:

" It's so sad that a group called C.A.V.E. thrives in this community. This group, known as Citizens Against Virtually Everything, can see no further then their own nose. Actually, if they didn't have a bandwagon to jump on they would have no audience at all. "

to tom hamilton wrote on Oct 12, 2007 9:07 PM:

" go put an app in at state farm they have plenty of money to throw away.and meaningless jobs like the one you seem to be doing already.. myself i have no money left for you. so get your flippin hands out of my pockets and go find a job you can handel.. "

to tom hamilton wrote on Oct 12, 2007 9:01 PM:

" please quit before you embarass yourself anymore or cost us more money "

Super wrote on Oct 12, 2007 8:48 PM:

" Another article generating a "whine"fest. Get a life people. I used to be amused reading the comments, now I skip ridding the comments. I've read them enough to know this town is full of whiners. If you don't like it LEAVE and let the rest of us enjoy our life here. "

I think wrote on Oct 12, 2007 8:42 PM:

" the saddest part of the info on the Coliseum is that no one involved with it ever comments. Why is it that the people running it have nothing to say? It is really horrible when a building of that size is bringing in only 1874 people to a show- time for huge changes from someone. The place is here and I am sure here to stay but geez time to think of new things to go on in there- what is happening is just not working. "

To Radio Fan wrote on Oct 12, 2007 8:31 PM:

" WJBC is a big joke! Have you listened to the radio hosts? Not professional at all and about 50% of the programing is not local new or interviews. I stop listening to it because I was tired of hearing the one chick talk about her husband this and her husband that. Yes, we know you just got married as you reminded us of it almost every day. A bunch of folks that think they know it all. I will stick to reading the Panti and making these awesome comments. Plus, I could care less CR or RC or whatever is so depressed about the cubs. No one cares. "

Don Rickles?? wrote on Oct 12, 2007 8:23 PM:

" Why did they not mention Don Rickels act? They said only 2 acts, but Don Rickels also played at The Big Judy. What were his numbers? Did anyone even attend? "

now lets go statewide wrote on Oct 12, 2007 8:04 PM:

" with a state funded insurance program - at least something will dwarf this fiasco. "

Steve W. is absolutely correct! wrote on Oct 12, 2007 8:01 PM:

" The Coliseum managers must think we're all fools. Apparently they would like to ignore the sad truth that the Colisem cost a lot of money to build. If the arena can't generate enough income to pay the cost of the bond it is a losing proposition. "

Oh, Yeah! wrote on Oct 12, 2007 7:49 PM:

" Sammy is comming, I'll be sure to wave from the front row, as well as when Chicago gets here!!! "

I agree with~ wrote on Oct 12, 2007 7:45 PM:

" Citizen. Every word,,,,sad, but true. Response, Judy???? "

uncle guido wrote on Oct 12, 2007 7:21 PM:

" sure am glad the city didnt want the NHRA dragstrip that may have brought in millions of dollars. Judy sure had her priorities straight! "

To "Information" wrote on Oct 12, 2007 6:39 PM:

" Most of us DO know that there aren't any civic centers, et cet that make any money when including capital costs. That's the whole point of this: The public stated over and over again, at every public forum that was held, that this venture could not make money. We were assured that it would. That is the issue here. The behind-the-scenes boys took over. Everyone from Mike Sprague running interence for Mayor Judy, to Mike Matejla pushing it as his "union duty". And then throw in the "management team" running in their shills/consultants... Any one with any ounce of sense knew it couldn't go, based on the very reason you listed: none of the others make it either. The Cultural Center was presented as a "nice to have" addition to our city, with no expectation of making money. Since the administration was honest about that, there has been very little criticism. "

PackerHater wrote on Oct 12, 2007 6:14 PM:

" Maybe if they scheduled events that people actually wanted to see, the might turn a profit. Ted Nugent, Don Rickles, I could go on and on listing garbage events. Wake Up!! "

BJ wrote on Oct 12, 2007 5:58 PM:

" I have been saying for months that we need to get rid of Tom Hamilton. He's worthless! "

citizen wrote on Oct 12, 2007 5:45 PM:

" THANKS JUDY!!! Thanks for giving Bloomington this mess that was voted DOWN in referendum. Thanks for listening to what your citizens wanted. Thanks for investing in this losing fiasco instead of keeping the Bloomington Gold Corvette show and the Prarie Air show here, both of which brought DOLLARS to local business. I bet the Interstate Center racetrack that you shot down would have been making some money and bringing money to local business as well. But at least you got your "high class" projects in before you left. Your the greatest!! "

Candy wrote on Oct 12, 2007 5:03 PM:

" Sell all of Judy's stuff that will help pay for some of the bill. Then tax ever union worker 1,000 bucks and ever State Farm worker 5,000 bucks and the rest of us 2 cents each, as 2 cents is all I think its worth anyway. "

BILLY BOB wrote on Oct 12, 2007 5:03 PM:

" Before the bonds are paid off the Colleseum will cost the tax payers and the city of Bloomington over 200 million dollars. The only people that will profit are the owners of the football, hockey, and other entertainers that use the arena. So the city is paying 200 million dollars over the next 20 years to have the privelidge of seeing hockey and football down the street. Thanks again Mr. Hamilton for all you've done for this city. "

Information wrote on Oct 12, 2007 4:40 PM:

" Do all of you realize that there is not a civic center or arena in this area that makes any money when you include the cost of the building? Not a one. Peoria barely makes an operating profit without any cost of their building and renovation. Expecting our Coliseum to make money and recover all building costs is unrealistic and impossible. "

Hey Judy wrote on Oct 12, 2007 4:19 PM:

" Count the cost first. It's in the Bible "

To: To Business 101 wrote on Oct 12, 2007 4:15 PM:

" It has yet to show a profit, or even the inclination that it is able to make a profit. It is continually in the red, and the amounts are not decreasing by any significant amount to show that it will be profitable in the next 10 years, or at all. So it will either continue to hemorrhage money until some unknown date in the distant future. So you tell me, how long and how deep do the people have to let this thing tank before pulling the plug? Remember, all the debt being incurred has to either come from loans with interest payments, or other project which will now be short on budget to support something that few want. "

Biased reporting as usual wrote on Oct 12, 2007 4:04 PM:

" How much did the golf courses make last month? How about the pools? The Zoo? Why isn't anyone checking on the cultural district’s profit? Last I read there were under 100 people at its last event. How much has that cost us? MILLIONS!! Why don't all you "concerned citizens" complain about these things? My guess is they have cost us many times what the Coliseum has cost us with no chance of making money. Quit being sheep and bandwagon jumping and get informed. "

Duh! wrote on Oct 12, 2007 3:54 PM:

" Hamilton is under contract.Fire him and he will get all the money owed to him. "

Normal Resident wrote on Oct 12, 2007 3:40 PM:

" I get all the benefits of the arena and none of the headaches. Everone should move to Normal that'll teach em'! You listening RC? "

Summer Slowdown? wrote on Oct 12, 2007 3:34 PM:

" was there ever a speedup? "

re:To:??? wrote on Oct 12, 2007 3:27 PM:

" I'm conservative also; that doesn't mean i like hillbilly music; or war. There is no correlation between being a hippy and liberal. "

Great Idea wrote on Oct 12, 2007 3:24 PM:

" Give the mess to Gov. Rod. and then cut ninty percent of our police. Then he could get his raise, and new billboards for his wife. "

I Agree with Yawn wrote on Oct 12, 2007 3:22 PM:

" Hamilton and the Coliseum management are more entertaining than anything at the Judy Dome. Just look at all the posts! "

To Yawn... wrote on Oct 12, 2007 3:20 PM:

" I agree in every way! "

Dr. Orangutan Chief Cardiologist Miller Park Zoo wrote on Oct 12, 2007 3:17 PM:

" You're travelling through another dimension. A dimension, not only of sight and sound, but of mind. A journey into a wondrous land whose boundaries are that of imagination. Next stop, Bloomington/normal. "

let try this wrote on Oct 12, 2007 3:16 PM:

" All i am asking is that you take a moment of your time to write or call the City Council to let them know you want to see this man (tom hamilton) out of office so I am including phone numbers with this post since some Council Members don`t respond to emails. Alan Gibson (828-9450), David Sage (828-3698), Kevin Huette (661-1226), Judy Stearns (828-5443), Jim Finnegan (662-1178), Karen Schmidt (829-6318), Steven Purcell ( 828-2220), John Hanson (662-5484), Jim Fruin (662-1197). They need to be shown that there are more than just a handful of people supporting this idea. after all this is public information it can also be found on the cities website..with there e-mail addys "

to my fellow blogers wrote on Oct 12, 2007 3:07 PM:

" i have posted this many times. it only takes five alderman to get tom hamilton out of office. thats right five. call yours today you can find there phone numbers on the cities website..explain to them that you want this brought up at the next meeting. let them know that if they want your vote then they should listen and get the job done.and for the mayor you may already gone look what we did to judy for such a sorry job she did.. so buckel up and and do your job.. "

Once again~~ wrote on Oct 12, 2007 3:05 PM:

" the citizens of Bloomington write in and show us their mentality. If this continues for a year, which very may happen, they will be over 3 million in debt for the year. What I don't understand is why does Peoria and other area's have some very good talent come to fill their coliseum? They seem to make money and yet here they get some really funky things and no one goes. I said it before and I'll say it again. Get in contact with these others and find out how it's done then do it!!! Who in the hell wants to go see Don Rickles???? Not I!!! "

Yawn wrote on Oct 12, 2007 2:50 PM:

" ....all of these new posts that I haven't heard a million times before are making me sleepy. I say the city keeps Hamilton and the Coliseum management. "

Radio Fan wrote on Oct 12, 2007 2:50 PM:

" I love the coliseum (never been there but love it all the same). I'm only posting on this article in hopes that RC McBride reads it and puts me on his inane 'oh the inanity' segment on JBC. Is there a prize if he reads your post on-air? "

To: Business 101 wrote on Oct 12, 2007 2:48 PM:

" If you truly understoond Business 101, you would understand that the slowest months are in the summer, and just like retail, it is largely made up for in the Fall and Winter. When you say it will get worse from here, you are conveniently ommitting the dozens of home hockey games coming up, more concerts and specialty sporting events, graduations, and private events. There was a large wedding and reception in it two weekends ago. Saying that after less than 2 years in existence that 'it's best years are behind it' is ridiculous. The Coliseum is making slow but sure progress in the right direction. "

Start a new site wrote on Oct 12, 2007 2:34 PM:

" firehamiltonandnelson.com. When are citiznes going to say enough is enough. "

I will wrote on Oct 12, 2007 2:33 PM:

" bet Nelson is playing golf today, he does not even care about the loses, as long as he gets paid. "

JudyDomer wrote on Oct 12, 2007 2:24 PM:

" You know I truly despised that this was built initially. Until I attended the Three Days Grace and Breaking Benjamin concert. The place I had been boycotting was not as bad as I thought. In fact I was pleasantly surprised. I am definitely gonna try to attend more things here now. I still do not agree it should have been built against the majority of the community's will, but now I will try and attend more there and take friends with me. "

Business 101 wrote on Oct 12, 2007 2:18 PM:

" Hamilton and Nelson are both worthless. Not many businesses get to operate and not worry about debt service. As Steve W. wrote "this is a package deal". I also believe the Judydome has seen its best years financially. It will only be getting worse. I enjoy many events and I like having the facility. We all should have been told that it would cost lots of tax payer dollors and not lied to. Judy should be ashamed of herself for all the lies. "

To:??? wrote on Oct 12, 2007 2:07 PM:

" Apparently you didn't get the memo last year that Bob Dylan, by his own admission, is and always has been a conservative. You stupid ass, hippy-dippy, peace children got pwned! LMAO-PIYF! "

To: To: AHAHAHAHAH wrote on Oct 12, 2007 1:58 PM:

" Hey don't pick on Barney Fife, he has feelings too. "

No wonder we are losing money.... wrote on Oct 12, 2007 1:56 PM:

" What can we expect when all they have scheduled is Ted Nuget and a single football game. Why aren't they out selling this place every weekend for major events? Monstor truck shows, Rodeos, job fairs, concerts, plays, revivals, yard sales, Indoor soccer, product demonstrations(outdoor wildlife shows) whatever it takes....to turn a profit for crying out loud. But then again, what do you expect...the majority of us voted against this to begin with... "

I have an idea wrote on Oct 12, 2007 1:52 PM:

" Get the guy who owned the Coachman to run the Coliseum. He should know how to cut down on expenses. "

Sam wrote on Oct 12, 2007 1:51 PM:

" I'm beginning to wonder if elected officials even consider what the average resident thinks! Or maybe this is only important in an election year! The city manager needs to go and if he were an elected official he would be out of here! Wake up mayor and city council!! "

Jeffer wrote on Oct 12, 2007 1:40 PM:

" Bring on Hannah Montana ! "

Kent Dorfman wrote on Oct 12, 2007 1:27 PM:

" I've been a supporter of this - I like the times I've been there and it beats driving all over. However... a $29 mil bond issue will cost $74 mil when it's done and paid for? Oh, I don't think this was thought out at all. "

funny-no police wrote on Oct 12, 2007 1:25 PM:

" with all this debt. looks like every department in the city faces cuts. The worst will be when the police gets no new officers! "

To: Dead Eye Dick wrote on Oct 12, 2007 1:14 PM:

" lol "

To City Council wrote on Oct 12, 2007 1:04 PM:

" I am a Bloomington Resident.(stockholder) Your are the Board of Directors. The City Manager is the CEO. He is making excuses. What would a business do? FIRE HIM!!! "

so sad wrote on Oct 12, 2007 1:03 PM:

" It is so sad this town just cant seem to get the city manager fired. Its like he has something on each of the council members or something. This city NEEDS to return to an elected Mayor-Council form of govt as soon as possible. "

jimmy wrote on Oct 12, 2007 1:00 PM:

" HOORAY for "culture and entertainment"!!! it's obvious from the reports that keep coming out, that this city was in DESPERATE need of both the judydome and the "cultural" center. "

Not surprised wrote on Oct 12, 2007 12:36 PM:

" I call them bands Ive never heard of. Why couldnt the Coliseum book Smashing pumpkins? Im sure they could have sold the place out "

schmoo wrote on Oct 12, 2007 12:14 PM:

" Fire the pres, cut his salary, they do absolutely nothing, except get free tickets to the events, and sell them to there friends, then you would at least break even. "

Huh????? wrote on Oct 12, 2007 12:08 PM:

" "6 to 7 month business"!!?? How could they have possibly thought this boondoggle could pay for itself by only doing business "6 to 7 months" of the year??? As Hamilton is quoted, "profitability is based on number of events." Wow. How did he figure that out? An outside consultant? Well guess what? If you can only do business 7 months of the year, you better have a lot of events during those months. And this place is EMPTY most of the time. He needs to go. What a joke. "

To Sham wrote on Oct 12, 2007 12:06 PM:

" Who wants land on the West side? "

To: Not surprised wrote on Oct 12, 2007 12:06 PM:

" Washed up 80's bands? What do you call Three Day's Grace and Breaking Benjamin? "

To: AHAHAHAHAH! wrote on Oct 12, 2007 12:04 PM:

" We have a police force? "

Local man wrote on Oct 12, 2007 12:03 PM:

" Only 1,874 for Nugent? Holy Cow! Who would have thought so few people would pay to see an artist with a huge hit ("Cat Scratch Fever") just 25 years ago? Maybe management should rethink trying to fulfilling those teenage dreams of their favorite rockstars of the 70s and get down to work on filling that Great White Empty Elephant known as the Judy Dome. "

Well... wrote on Oct 12, 2007 12:01 PM:

" Heck, the Gov. wants to lay off all the state cops. Why doesn't Bloomington lay off their cops too so they can pay for this thing. Illinois, you put me in a happy place... "

Bean counter wrote on Oct 12, 2007 12:00 PM:

" They keep this up for another 10 or and 15 years and we're talking some serious money. Thanks goodness it's only taxpayers money! "

Yet.... wrote on Oct 12, 2007 11:59 AM:

" another loss.... "

country boy wrote on Oct 12, 2007 11:51 AM:

" they just need to save this article and update the loss figures on a monthly basis, might save a little time... "

Not surprised wrote on Oct 12, 2007 11:50 AM:

" Maybe if they would quit having washed up 80's bands play concerts they would actually make some money "

sham wrote on Oct 12, 2007 11:43 AM:

" tear it down and sell the land "

??? wrote on Oct 12, 2007 11:38 AM:

" Ted Nuggethead only could get 1874 hillbillies to show up? You know you are in trouble when you live in such a warmongering conservative town; and you can only get that many warmongers to the redneck games. Oh well, maybe bob dylan will bring in a few real customers. "

Dead Eye Dick wrote on Oct 12, 2007 11:33 AM:

" Thoughts and Prayers. "

TC wrote on Oct 12, 2007 11:28 AM:

" What...no bashers yet? "

Chuckie wrote on Oct 12, 2007 11:26 AM:

" Increase tobacco taxes locally to offset the difference. "

Steve W. wrote on Oct 12, 2007 11:20 AM:

" While keeping the capital cost separate from the operational cost is necessary for bookkeeping purposes, the combination of the two is the ONLY figure that is important to the taxpayer. I'm getting sick of the management group constantly trying to show how well they're doing if they just didn't have to include that nasty old capital cost. Guess what, folks, IT'S A PACKAGE DEAL!! That's how it was sold, and that's how it must be measured! I have maintained all along that this would be a fiasco and have seen nothing yet to prove otherwise. I think we've already seen the best year; the following years will be worse ! And, yes, I am a Bloomington taxpayer and I have attended numerous events at the Coliseum. "

Here we go wrote on Oct 12, 2007 11:13 AM:

" Start the complaining!!! "

Scheduling wrote on Oct 12, 2007 11:13 AM:

" Why were there only 2 major events? The city manger is making excuses! "

AHAHAHAH! wrote on Oct 12, 2007 11:07 AM:

" Great! Why don't we just lay off the police force (Like blago) to help pay this. "

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