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Bar is lowered to 'break even' on eve of Coliseum's 3rd year
Hockey team's future uncertain, and more than $1M is at stake
By M.K. Guetersloh
mkguetersloh@pantagraph.com
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BLOOMINGTON -- Before it opened in April 2006, arena consultants predicted the U.S. Cellular Coliseum would turn a nifty profit of $2 million annually — enough to cover the cost of the building’s construction. That’s not going to happen. | VIDEO: Officials, management on the future | VIDEO: Backstage at the Coliseum | INTERACTIVE GRAPHIC: Attendance, revenue from Years 1 and 2 | PHOTO GALLERY: Concert night | Old foes warm up to Coliseum | How much do venue's managers make?

Instead, its first year of operation cost city taxpayers about $350,000, which does not include the roughly $2 million a year the city paid toward the downtown building’s mortgage. While financial reports are not in for March and April, city and Coliseum officials say those two months likely will cover the current year’s $64,000 shortfall and push operations into the black.

But looking toward the coming year, with the PrairieThunder hockey team’s future uncertain, more than $1 million — or 30 percent of the building’s income — is at stake.

“This is something that has kept me up probably the last six months because we haven’t had strong local ownership” of the team, Coliseum General Manager Mike Nelson said.

After two years of operating the building, Central Illinois Arena Management has settled in and has a better understanding of Coliseum operations, said Nelson, who owns the management group with business partner John Butler.

Their third fiscal year of operations begins May 1. The city’s budget, approved last week by the City Council, projects a $125,000 operational profit for the third year. Generally, city officials say they have accepted the fact the building will never reach the financial projections promised when the planning started nine years ago.

Keeping the building out of the red is the focus of their attention now, after the council recently decided to foot the bill for the $29.5 million in bonds used to build the Coliseum through a quarter-percent increase in the city’s sale tax that takes effect July 1. If arena managers generate an operational profit, that money will go toward paying down the bonds.

How the Coliseum makes its money — through club seats and suite sales, sponsorships, concessions and ticket sales — is an area where improvement is key to succeeding in tough economic times. That means the Coliseum must put more people in those 7,500 blue seats when attendance at hockey games and club seat sales are down.

With two months left to account for in its second year, 237,053 people have entered the building, attracted by 197 events, including 38 hockey games. At the end of February 2007, the Coliseum had attracted 227,580 people, so the remaining months could be a race to beat the inaugural year’s attendance number of 291,281 for 202 events.

Because of changes in how the finances were reported to the city, Nelson said he did not have specific numbers to compare concession and sponsorship revenues between the first two years. But in its budget for the second year, CIAM predicted revenues from all events would generate a $700,000 profit, helping to cut into the roughly $2.3 million in bonds and building replacement.

In early April, Mayor Steve Stockton called the $700,000 goal “overly aggressive.”

Third-period comeback

Clearly, a key to a successful third year is the Thunder, one of two anchor tenants — the other being the Extreme football team, which continues to draw well. Hockey needs to turn a big corner, Nelson said. The team has finished in last place both years; this season ended last weekend with a losing record of 31-38-7.

“If you have a team that is drawing 3,000 compared to a team that is drawing 5,000, your food and beverage numbers go up, facility and ancillary revenues go up,” said Nelson, acknowledging that putting a winning hockey team on the ice is critical to club seat and suite sales.

City officials and managers are hopeful they’ve found the answer in a Twin City investment group, led by Bloomington attorney Tim Leighton, that intends to buy the team.

Leighton said the intense level of play by the team at the end of the season is a positive direction he hopes to build on. In an April 5 game at Flint, the Thunder gained the national sports spotlight for scoring a record-breaking four goals in 35 seconds.

“We are already into our strategic planning for the third season,” Leighton said, adding he is confident the team will be able to reverse a loss in attendance.

So far, sales of club seats are down nearly 10 percent over the past year. Fixing the hockey team will help that situation, Nelson said.

In the first year, CIAM sold about 800 club seats, which cost $750 each. This year, sales were 725. As of last week, 658 club seats had been sold for the third year.

Nelson said full-time sales staff has been assigned to bring those numbers back up. Having a strong hockey team would only help in the effort.

Income from the Coliseum’s 24 suites, at $25,000 each, has remained steady because owners are in the second of a three-year contract, Nelson said. However, general ticket sales for hockey have dropped, though Nelson did not have specific figures.

Using rough numbers based on average game attendance, he said the hockey team drew about 600 fewer paying customers per game. “That’s about 22,000 fewer tickets sold for the season so we are probably close to a six-figure hit,” he added.

In the team’s first year, announced attendance averaged 3,775 per game, Nelson said. In the second year the average attendance per game dropped to 3,184.

“Winning helps a lot,” Nelson said. “Being in last place — that’s hurt us a lot.”

More effort on sales, concerts

Besides fielding a strong hockey team, Nelson said, the facility needs to attract four or five concerts that draw 4,000 to 6,500 people — like the recent Sammy Hagar and Kid Rock concerts. The February 2007 John Mayer concert, with attendance of 8,134, has been the only concert to sell out the entire building.

Nelson wouldn’t comment on what concert acts may be coming in the third year, but said a new round of announcements will start in the coming days. He added staff has been working to line up more events, including filling more dates in the slower warm-weather months of May, June and July.

At the same time, they also have to offer a variety of events that appeal to a wide audience, such as motorcycle ice racing and family shows.

Meanwhile, to Stockton, the progress CIAM has made in reducing the Coliseum’s overall operational loss between the first and second years is promising.

Ward 7 Alderman Steven Purcell agreed, adding if the Coliseum only breaks even in the second year, the city will be far ahead of other communities with similar buildings.

“A profit would be nice to help us pay down the bond debt,” said Purcell, a frequent Coliseum critic. “But if we look at other buildings as an indication of what is possible here, that probably won’t happen.”

New managers?

Going forward, Stockton thinks CIAM’s performance will be judged on three things: bringing in as much revenue as possible; entertaining as many people as possible; and doing as much community service as possible.

Aldermen John Hanson, Ward 8; Jim Finnegan, Ward 5; and Karen Schmidt, Ward 6, said the management group’s overall performance also should be judged on what Coliseum events do to generate customers for local businesses, including hotels and downtown restaurants and taverns.

If the building’s performance does not continue to improve and it racks up a loss after its third year, it is unclear if city officials will go shopping for new managers. The 10-year contract with CIAM provides several opportunities for the two sides to negotiate problems before either the city or the management group can terminate the contract.

Stockton declined to comment whether a specific figure could trigger such a discussion, saying that is “different in everyone’s mind.”

However, the mayor said there are some ambiguities in the current contract that he’d like the city to review with an independent attorney to help both sides understand them. He emphasized such a review is not a step toward getting new managers.

Although operation of the building may start paying for itself, Ward 4 Alderman Judy Stearns is not willing to say the Coliseum is breaking even. She thinks the building will only reach that point after the bond debt is paid for the year.

“I’m pleased (that) operationally we are near the break-even point, but let’s be honest: When the council told the taxpayers this would make money, no one was separating out the bond debt,” Stearns said.

But Hanson, Finnegan and Allen Gibson, Ward 1, maintain the council will be content if the Coliseum breaks even on operations.

“As long as it’s performing so that the city is not having to chip in any extra money, the council will be satisfied,” Hanson said. “I see them working as hard as they can to get the operations strong, and the fact that the performance does not meet what was projected is the past council’s issue.”
Take a look
Young fans congratulate the PrairieThunder hockey players between periods during an April 6 game at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum. (The Pantagraph/LORI ANN COOK)
Fans go crazy as Soulja Boy enters the stage during a March 19 concert at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum in downtown Bloomington. (The Pantagraph/B Mosher)
Mannheim Steamroller's Ron Cooley plays the bass guitar during the April 3 performance at U.S. Cellular Coliseum in downtown Bloomington. (The Pantagraph/B Mosher)
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Reader comments on this story - 99 total

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.

The Cats wrote on May 5, 2008 10:42 AM:

" To lbomb...thanks for the comments. We just disagree on this one. I am clearly against using public money to enrich team owners and I will not contribute to their income. As to the arena I am still not convinced tearing it down is not the best solution. Quantify the loss, pay it off, and be done with it. As it stands now we could be on the hook for millions more over the life of the bonds. I must also say, in looking at the food and beverage tax numbers declining, I am not at all sure the bar owners downtown are doing that well. I thin k it is just money moved from one venue to another. I also do not see how supporting a "fighting team" which is what minor, minor league hockey is and going to bars is a family friendly activity. "

The Cats wrote on May 5, 2008 10:36 AM:

" To Voice...sorry but ever since you8 stated that using a video game was a good way to design and manage a city I have thought of you as 15. You must admit your comment was childish. As to accusations...I am not sure what you are talking about. I only stated that you did not understand basic economics and your posts reveal that. If that offends you so be it. BTW please look at your posts...it seems you are the one hurling insults. "

The Cats wrote on May 5, 2008 10:33 AM:

" To Geez...if you don't like it don't read it. This is an open forum and I do not believe you set the rules. "

lbomb wrote on May 4, 2008 3:56 PM:

" Cats, I agree with alot of your posts on other topics, but this time you are off the mark. The Coliseum has definitely improved the quality of life to many, many people. I have had season tickets since opening day (yes I do put my money where my mouth is) and every game, win or lose, I see thousands of people having a good time. And they are also spending their money here rather then driving to Peoria, Chicago or St. Louis for entertainment. The Coliseum has improved the ecomonic well-being of down town and provided a wonderful source of family entertainment. You should check it out!!!


"

Geez! wrote on May 3, 2008 7:53 PM:

" Voice and Cats - can you two please take your childish arguments off-line? You two seem to hijack every thread in the Pantagraph's web site, and all you do is accuse each other of being more childish and dishonest than the other. Either keep on-topic and stop the personal attacks or go elsewhere! "

voice of reason2 wrote on May 3, 2008 3:51 PM:

" To The Cats- Still nothing but baseless acqusations. Who's 15?
To C.A.T.S. - I doubt it would be. You seem to be a lot of talk. Just talk. "

Geez! wrote on May 3, 2008 1:29 PM:

" Supporting a bad idea is... a bad idea.

Judy got her way - again. The only good thing is that she didn't have the same kindergarten idea of renaming Bloomington to "Uptown" as they did in Normal. "

notes wrote on May 3, 2008 8:47 AM:

" We've got it -- now let's support it. "

Geez! wrote on Apr 28, 2008 12:37 PM:

" Great logic! If you aren't good enough to reach the goal, lower the goal. Maybe schools should include those students who get Cs on the A-B Honor Roll as well. After all, it's close enough. "

jmkandjjmk wrote on Apr 28, 2008 12:12 PM:

" maybe if they had some descent events there.things that people actually want to see then maybe they would make more money.oh and if the seats werent so stinking uncomfortable. "

Sephiroth wrote on Apr 28, 2008 7:36 AM:

" Who's cookin the books over at The Big Judy? "

The Peanut Gallery wrote on Apr 28, 2008 7:09 AM:

" To Only in America -

Not too many people care??? Your powers of persuasion are as impressive as your ability to observe. WHAT IS THIS DISCUSSION THREAD ALL ABOUT, if not too many people care? "

The Cats wrote on Apr 25, 2008 12:19 PM:

" To Voice...BTW in a rant attacking me for my writing style I might point out that "are atrocious" should be "is atrocious". Before you castigate someone for their writing ability perhaps you should look at yours first. Go back to your video games and let the adults handle this. You will soon be out from under mommy's thumb and hopefully then you will have a better understanding of basic economics. "

The Cats wrote on Apr 25, 2008 12:15 PM:

" To Voice...again I say you cannot look to me to help you research things on the internet. As to your "degrees'...since most of us believe you are about 15 you have none. As to whether you like or approve of the way I write...who cares. As to your not admitting that you misquoted me...another childlike reaction...you prove my point with every word you write. As to whether this will ever make a profit maybe you should read the article again and do some research. The city says it will not and historical data from other cities supports that conclusion. Go back to your video games and let the adults write on here. "

The Cats wrote on Apr 25, 2008 12:11 PM:

" To Voice...you are the most arrogant poster on this web site and that is really a hard "honor" to achieve. Your anger comes out in every post you write. "Spitting on people"? Tell us that you are really 15. That is how think, write, and act. Go back to your video game...you know the one you think we should use to solve all urban problems. If you are really an adult you are a shining example of what is wrong with our education system. "

Political Heretic wrote on Apr 24, 2008 9:48 PM:

" To voice of reason2. Your concept of proof must be different than the norm, as it is logically impossible to prove a negative. Unless you can post a complete list of every incident at the Coliseum related to maintainence, and the incident I pointed to is not on it, you haven't proven me a liar. Nor have you proven my friend a liar. I'm done with this debate as you are proving to be the proverbial brick wall. Be the mean-spirited individual you are. Disbelieve me if you will. That's fine. You Coliseum will still fail, and I will be here to toast it's demise. Goodbye. Feel free to throw mud at my back. "

c.a.t.s. wrote on Apr 24, 2008 3:55 PM:

" to voice of reason2: see you still dont get it. when it fails my taxes wont go up because theres already a JUDY TAX just to pay for the dump.. now say it with me out loud... theres already a JUDY TAX just to pay for the dump. now for the farmer comment its a bloomington thing way over your head i guess.. and if you still want to spit on me feel free but i guarantee it will be last thing to leave your lips. sorry have to run now recess is over ...dang! "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 24, 2008 2:33 PM:

" To c.a.t.s: Actually my parents and their parents were farmers but I am not. Are you saying that farmers are classless? If you are I'd like to spit on you too. I appreciate your service and sacrifice to this country, and I hope you appreciate my taxes supporting you now. Do you realize that this new HUGE tax is costing you 50 CENTS on every $100? I can appreciate your financial position, I’m not Donald Trump either, but 50 CENTS is worth all this hard feeling? Do you realize that if the Coliseum fails that 50 CENTS you have to pay now will become 50 DOLLARS? Do you understand why I keep saying that the past does not matter – IT”S BUILT - and that it’s in everyone’s, especially people on fixed income, best interest that this succeed? I’m not sure why equating me commenting on your lack of ability to write above a 3rd grade level with being a child molester works, but I guess it makes sense to you. However in your doing so makes me understand why people would want to spit on you. "

c.a.t.s. wrote on Apr 24, 2008 1:48 PM:

" to voice of reason2 : i see you can do simple math im sure you paid well for that education. you must be a farmer with all that class your showing! and your right about my income im a disabled veteran with a fixed income so yes it does outrage me. i would put you in the same class that stood in the airports and spat on us when we returned home.and as far as my spelling well i can only say
people who critique spelling and grammar on message boards are the same people who hang out by playgrounds with big bags of candy. "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 24, 2008 11:52 AM:

" To The Cats: If you are going to continue to discuss this, please at least bring an 'A' game. Political Heretic, although misguided and uninformed, at least uses proper grammar and spelling. He does make up 'facts' now and then, but at least has a 'B' game going. You seem to cite statistics from Associations that don't exist, and quote things that were never said. Did you get your 'grad' degree from K-Mart or some correspondence school? I'd ask for a refund. "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 24, 2008 11:00 AM:

" To Political Heretic: lol. I have zero ‘anger’ on this issue. It can’t affect me one way or the other so I actually could care less. It’s just annoying to read uninformed, shortsighted people in here making up ‘facts’ just to look intelligent. It’s like listening to Hillary Clinton. So you are fine with cutting off your nose to spite your face? That speaks volumes. Do something with your life so you have more to be proud of than just “I told you so” about the Coliseum. You actually did lie about the pipe issue and I cited sources that proved that. The material in the Coliseum is the same quality as every building built in the last 50 years. It has to be because of building codes. Show me one building that spent more than they had to on things like plumbing and electrical just ‘because’. Just one. LOL. My ‘goat’? Your lack of facts and wisdom here is somewhat annoying, but it would take a great deal more than one shortsighted person to get my ‘goat’. You and Cats do keep me well entertained though. It’s kind of like arguing with my 8-year old niece. "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 24, 2008 10:40 AM:

" TO The Cats: You actually post as “The Cats”, so your proofreading, along with your writing, are atrocious. Look up the word for its definition. Wherever you got your "grad" degree from should be embarrassed. I would love to compare Graduate Degrees with you any day. Your highly simplistic approach to accounting assumes that it will never make a profit, this is yet to be seen in the long term. Please site the source of this 81% figure. Would love to see how this is arrived at. I actually never said I played the game so that’s really an irrelevant, childish attempt at a put down. Please cite where I said it runs cities better than humans. Do you just make up all your facts to try and look intelligent? Nice try though. "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 24, 2008 9:54 AM:

" To Cats: What's the matter? Facts got your tongue? "

The Cats wrote on Apr 24, 2008 9:43 AM:

" To voice of reason...I post as The Cat, I did not mention rape (and certainly I write better than you) so what are you babbling about (on any subject for that matter. As to your education, it is obvious from your arrogant posts (and moniker) that you must still be in high school so when you finish let me know and we can compare grad degrees. You obviously do not understand basic accounting so I will try to "dumb it down" for you. We owe about $28 million on the bond. We have to pay that REGARDLESS of whether the arena makes money or not. The arena will, at best, (by the city's own admission and it has been completely wrong so far) break even. So, if it does not operate at all we only owe the bond, if it operates and losses money (as about 81% of city owned facilities do) we will owe more. Bottom line is it's cheaper to close it down. Simple enough for you now? Go back to your video game (you know, the one you say runs cities better than humans). "

Political Heretic wrote on Apr 24, 2008 9:33 AM:

" To voice of reason2. If it's no skin off your back, then why the anger? I fully understand the consequences of a boycott and still embrace it. If that's childish, then it's only in response to the childish acts that created the Plutocratic White Whale in the first place. Kind of a nice symmetry to it, actually. Feel free to disbelieve me on the pipe issue, I've talked directly to the man whose evening was messed up by this incident and know it is the truth. I may be many things, but I'm not a liar who fabricates data to support a weak argument. Once again, I don't have to. The truth will suffice perfectly. I'm really getting your goat, aren't I? Afraid others will agree with me and put out the same effort? You should be. "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 24, 2008 8:08 AM:

" To Political Heretic: BTW – I will and do enjoy the shows, looking forward to seeing Reba and might go see Boston. I also enjoy the Hockey and Football as I have 4 club seats for both. If it fails I will return to going to Peoria for Hockey and Football and shows wherever they are and my taxes will stay as they are now. The residents of Bloomington however will see their taxes triple and city services disappear. So support it or don’t, it’s really no skin off my back. "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 24, 2008 8:03 AM:

" To Political Heretic: You claim you don't have to make up anything to slam the Coliseum yet you do. The pipe and material issue was just a fabrication by you to support your agenda. The Coliseum was built with material that meets code as EVERY building built on this planet has been for the last 100 years. The City Council issue is just business as usual with government on anything. You would know this if you had any experience with how they work other than this issue. I’m not saying it’s right, it’s just how government works and has for decades. The bottom line is that this ship has sailed, it’s not turning around. It’s childish and detrimental to boycott something that, if it fails, would bankrupt this city. Who was right and who was wrong is irrelevant if that happens. Get it? You naysayers need to grow up and quit holding your breath like a 4-year old that didn’t get their way. Go there or don’t, no one cares. But if it fails, that .5% tax increase is going to look like peanuts compared to what will happen. Get it? "

r we there yet wrote on Apr 24, 2008 7:51 AM:

" okay, yes we were lied to when they said that we werent going to pay any taxes. We do live in america where lying is now the way of life, and money makes the world go around, but I look at it this way this town is in need of entertainment other than going to bars. Im willing to pay the extra tax for the coliseum, and I have enjoyed all the shows or games that I went to. Im sorry that all people care for is money, money is the root of all evil. I just think if YOU are so unhappy with the local government and you dont want to put a little money into YOUR town then maybe its time for a move. "

Political Heretic wrote on Apr 24, 2008 4:26 AM:

" To voice of reason2. I don't have to make up anything to slam the Coliseum. The very fact that the City Council refused to publish their minutes for two years in order to hide that it's an economic black hole, and the accounting method they've had to turn to in order to make it LOOK like it's doing better now, slams it harder than anything I could fabricate. So too does the public outrage that tells me this building will be an empty husk within 10 years. And yes, the incident DID happen, and those involved with the Coliseum know it. Ask them. When they lie to you, a custom they've become quite used to, make sure to note their body language, the direction of their gaze, and whether they blink frequently as they deny it. Enjoy your shows...while they're still here. "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 23, 2008 10:41 PM:

" TO Cats - Cute. Resort to poorly worded, spelled and punctuated insults all you care to, but the fact remains that you don’t know the future. Since I probably have twice the education you do, I’ll calculate this out for you. This .5% tax "rape", as you so eloquently put it, is 50 CENTS on $100. Wow. I may have to get a part time job to pay that one!! If I were you, I would truly be outraged at that amount too. It is probably a lot on your minimum wage, but for most we won’t even notice it. "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 23, 2008 10:32 PM:

" To Political Heretic - Can you site your sources for this switch of material? No you can't because it didn't happen. PVC, properly installed, is 10 times better than copper. It just wasn't properly installed. Your "Mea Culpa" was that you wanted to make up a 'fact' to slam the Coliseum. Sorry, but your facts don't hold water. Just like your 'hard working' friends poorly installed pipe. "

c.a.t.s. wrote on Apr 23, 2008 7:37 PM:

" to voice of reason2 i know this must be very difficult for you to understand ! hell at least 3 people here have tried to tell you but you just dont seem to get it. so ill go slow im sure ill lose you some where so go back and read it again.(sound like your third grade teacher ??) the city of bloomington has already raped the tax payer. it raised the sales tax from 7.25 to 7.75 % that .50% is to be set aside just to pay for the dump. so like i said before it could close its doors now and it wouldnt bother me one bit or cost me any more than it is. the point is we were LIED to and now were being forced to pay for it. TICK TOCK TOMMY TICK TOCK.
"

Political Heretic wrote on Apr 23, 2008 3:38 PM:

" To voice of reason2. Very good! You did your research and nailed me! Not typical at all of a conservative like yourself. I must have got the PVC vs. copper switched. What can I say? I’m not a plumber. Mea Culpa. The fact remains that the wrong material was put in and it ruptured like a sick appendix. As for your dig on my hard working union friends, you can stick that one. It wasn’t their fault that the architects insisted on using the wrong material and they even told they guys. They wouldn’t listen due to cost concerns. Thus, my central assertion remains solid. By the way, I don’t live in Bloomington either, but I share the outrage of its citizens. Be angry all you want. Hate the working man all you want. This will still fail and none too soon. "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 23, 2008 3:23 PM:

" To Cats. Yea, that would be a great idea, very constructive suggestion. What are you, 10? I hope they close it and triple your property taxes to prove a point to you. "

c.a.t.s. wrote on Apr 23, 2008 2:50 PM:

" to voice of reason2 : the coliseum could close its doors right now and it wouldnt cost us any more than it is already. hell it might even save us some..

i was listening to an old council meeting (mar.) the other day on jbc and after the meeting in the back ground you can here tom talking about the debt payment on the coliseum it sounds like he said that it is going up after 5 yrs. to 3.5 mil anyone else here this or know anything about it? sounds like another lie or cover up to me! "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 23, 2008 2:33 PM:

" TO The Cats: We will get your approval for our posts from now on, our mistake. I guess this is the first year that the streets have been 'a mess'. Before the Coliseum they were never in disrepair and Lord knows taxes have never gone up. Towanda and Vernon was pristine until the Coliseum. You are right though, all this is due to the Coliseum. Society had none of these problems until two years ago. I blame the gang problem on the Coliseum as well. Gas prices? Yep, the Coliseums fault. You are obviously a liberal democrat that can't quite remember things too accurately. You want to see your taxes REALLY go up and city services take a dive? Let the Coliseum fail and see what happens. The team owners have no stake in the arena, but the arena depends on the teams success to survive so I guess I'm missing your point. Please clarify. "

The Cats wrote on Apr 23, 2008 1:56 PM:

" To Lovingit...we do support it...our taxes are up, our fees are up, our streets are a mess, and we will pay for this for 28 more years. Why would I spend my hard earned money to support to bad teams playing what can only be classified as minor/minor league sports? Buying tickets give the owners of those teams income. They have no stake in the arena so I chose not to support them. If you want to, fine, just do not tell me what I should do. To the last few posters...why are talking about pipe? Try sticking to the point...you comments are so irrelevant as to be nonsensical. "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 23, 2008 1:09 PM:

" To Political Heretic: Google “PVC vs Copper pressure” and take any of the first ten results. They will tell you that PVC will tolerate higher pressure than copper, is cheaper, more durable, and EASIER to install than copper. Easier I guess except for your high quality union guys. They are called ‘facts’, might want to start using them. LOL "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 23, 2008 12:46 PM:

" To Political Heretic: According to www.affordableconcretecutting.com/home_improvement/copper-vs-pvc.html PVC can withstand higher pressure than copper, is lighter, cheaper and more durable than copper as well. Is also easier to install than copper although the Union guys couldn’t seem to get it right. Again, your facts seem to fail you. "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 23, 2008 12:39 PM:

" To Political Heretic: Wow this high quality union labor can’t make PVC hold water? If it was incapable of doing so the plumbing code would not allow it. It failed because it was improperly installed by over paid, under skilled people who have their job because they belong to a club. Funny the PVC in my house that I put in has never had a problem. Wow, I don’t even belong to a union and I can glue plastic pipes together so they don’t leak. What you fail to see is that you’ll be voting with your dollars all right. Your vote will result in huge tax increases for you if you win. I don’t shop or pay taxes in Bloomington normally so I could care less if you cut off your nose to spite your face. LOL You are a hoot. "

Political Heretic wrote on Apr 23, 2008 8:50 AM:

" To voice of reason2. Then let me entertain you more! First of all PVC isn’t as good as copper as it cannot handle the pressure copper can. That’s why the Coliseum had a big wet mess to clean up right before a big show. When I said kid, I guess I should have said teenager, my point being that I’ve known people involved in the construction of both facilities and the Coliseum was made on the mega-cheap. Both, by the way, were made with good union labor. Disbelieve me if you will, but when the Plutocratic White Whale starts needing major repairs far before it should, I’ll be here to tell you I told you so. The Peoria Civic Center, by the way, also was a failure until a private company took it over and Bradley basketball was introduced. I’m afraid no such thing is going to happen with the PWW anytime soon. Once again, feel free to vote with your dollars as I will feel free to do the same. "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 23, 2008 7:55 AM:

" To Political Heretic: Where have you been? You say the politicians would learn from their "mistakes". LOLOLOL Oh....Your comments are beyond hilarious. Your knowledge as a kid about something is betraying you. I wasn't talking about the construction, although PVC works as well as copper, I was refering to the overall design and management of the building.
To c.a.t.s: You should play the lottery since you have such a keen knowledge of the future. Sadly, you only FEEL and desire it to fail. The future is not yet written. Way too many people here, including you, mistake feelings and desire for knowledge. They said the exact same things about the Peoria Civic Center and The Mark in the QC, they both struggled their first few years and are now doing well. I'm glad the Management gave the unions the boot, they are destroying this country.
The entertainment continues. Thank you! "

Political Heretic wrote on Apr 22, 2008 4:10 PM:

" To voice of reason2. It would be a Pyrrhic victory, I'll admit that, but a victory that would permanently burn itself into the minds of any and all future alderpersons and mayors of Bloomington. Never again would they defy the will of the people and lie to them so blatantly. The taxes are coming anyways, so why not? Besides, something else useful could be made of the building afterwards that might actually contribute to the culture of Bloomington AND pay for itself. The author of that book I mentioned has several suggestions, any of which would be superior to the Plutocratic White Whale. By the way, I was on the construction site of Skatorium as a child, and I know people who worked on the Coliseum. The Skatorium's quality of construction exceeded the corner-cutting Coliseum by a hundred miles. PVC piping where copper should be, anyone? BOOM! SPLASH! It's already happened. "

c.a.t.s. wrote on Apr 22, 2008 3:12 PM:

" to voice of reason2 we all know this will fail sooner or later the sooner the better as far as costing us more in the long run.. well its too late! we were LIED to and now we have a NEW JUDY TAX ! ! and you know what your paying for it too every time you shop in bloomington. we the tax payers are footing the bill for this dump.. the boycott is and will work. and if the unions pushed the living wage issue at thier meetings more would boycott it for that reason alone. as soon as this so called hockey team fails so will the Coliseum and from what i have read thats not far off.. so have a nice day and
THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING IN BLOOMINGTON.. "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 22, 2008 2:06 PM:

" Political Heretic: You “win” by the Coliseum failing and being forced to bail out millions of dollars by higher taxes? LOL That’s some victory. I don’t live in Bloomington so I “win” either way. Predicting its long term viability now is just not accurate. If it does fail you pay BIG. Suit yourself. If it’s worth the higher taxes to say “I was right”, then you need more to satisfy you in your life. It’s not doing as well as it should now, but what will happen next year and the years after we still do not know. Brag that you know it all then get out your checkbook because you and your childish boycott won. My taxes will be unaffected.
BTW – If you ever were at the Skatium in Normal years ago you would know why it failed. For one, the city was half the size it is now, and two it was a bad facility. The Coliseum and Pepsi Ice Center are 100 times the facility the Skatium was. Really there is no comparison and doing so shows how uninformed you are.
Please keep up the entertainment though, it makes my day.
"

Political Heretic wrote on Apr 22, 2008 12:31 PM:

" To voice of reason2. You said, "they have to play Monday Morning Quaterback". This implies that people are criticizing the Coliseum now only because it is failing, when the case with myself, and many other local folk, was that we predicted the Coliseum would fail BEFORE it was built and BEFORE the advisory referendum. If you look up the book I quoted earlier, you'll notice it was published in 2002. In other words, there were already multiple examples of sports stadiums being built throughout the country that were not panning out. That, to no small degree, is why many voted against the Plutocratic White Whale. Another factor is that many remember Normal's failed attempt at an ice skating rink, and were aware that hockey and ice skating are not favored pastimes of Bloomington, except, of course, for the wealthy few with delusions that their little girls were going to be the next Dorothy Hamill and who were tired of driving to Peoria. As for a boycott not being effective, I think it will be. If you want to support the Coliseum, feel free to vote with your dollars. I too, will vote with mine. We’ll see who wins. "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 22, 2008 8:17 AM:

" To Political Heretic: Neither side is right or wrong. This is an opinion issue. The city was within their rights to do what they did since the referendum was NON-BINDING, and the naysayers are right to object. I object to a lot of things the city spends money on. But it's a moot issue anymore. It's built and it's not going away. To continue to sit in these forums and whine like a 2-year old is just immature. To boycott the Coliseum is also just nuts because you are costing yourself money in the long run if it fails. A lot of money. But people don’t see it that way. They see it as if it fails they can puff out their chest and say “see I’m smart”. I guess it’s just some people have nothing in their life to be proud of or other accomplishments they have to play Monday Morning Quaterback to boost their ego. To those of us who don’t need this ego boost and support the Coliseum, it’s annoying childish whining by uninformed nit wits. Entertaining though. "

normalguy wrote on Apr 22, 2008 7:16 AM:

" so does this mean we will be able to afford more police now? im not saying we need them , no gang violence,murders, or stabbings going on, but just curious. "

LOL Liberal (:-D) wrote on Apr 21, 2008 10:06 PM:

" I think I'll get into the consulting business - seems you don't need to be any more accurate than the weatherman. "

BJ wrote on Apr 21, 2008 5:58 PM:

" You are right c.a.t.s. - Tommy Boy is probably out playing golf with his RIMCO buddies - too busy to open mouth and insert foot which he loves to do so much. I am waiting to hear what wonderful acts they announce that are coming soon to the Judy Dome. Hopefully we will hear something soon "

Political Heretic wrote on Apr 21, 2008 4:59 PM:

" To voice of reason2. I'm glad you're doing well and it's great that you enjoy the coliseum, but what I don't see in your post is this: why we are wrong. "

LovinIt wrote on Apr 21, 2008 3:31 PM:

" I am SOOO tired of everyone saying they won't step foot in the USCC!! Now that it is here we need to step up to the plate and support it. We all complain about there is nothing to do in this town. So we bring something in that gives us entertainment and we complain. We need to think of the real reason we are not going...just mad because it is here is not a good reason. Quit complaining and enjoy what we have. This is a great town to live in we should be behind it all the way. Keep up the hard work USCC!!! "

Crybaby wrote on Apr 21, 2008 12:01 PM:

" With warm weather fast approaching, Arena management is probably thinking that more folks will want to go to indoor events. To watch Winter sports. Like Hockey. Or Ice Carving. Or Dog Sledding. Or watch an ice worm eat a bale of hay. Events which CIAM, no doubt, is counting on to generate a $700,000 profit. To be fair, our mayor deems that target as "overly aggressive". Which means, I think, at the risk of putting words in his mouth, that 'it ain't gonna' happen'. Let us therefore steel ourselves to accept the inevitable. Let's get our minds right. So that we'll be better prepared to reject then welcome the next grand project foisted upon us by the next crop of local visionaries. Who happen to be 'educated'. And have good paying jobs. And whose kids like to play Hockey. And who always know best. Finally, let us not forget: as the good book says: (Anticipating our quandary) " It would be easier for a Hockey player to pass through the eye of a needle than it would be for a needle to pass through a full Arena." Or, something along those lines. "

26620 wrote on Apr 21, 2008 11:34 AM:

" To The Cats - I'm tired of your anti-arena posts. So there. "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 21, 2008 11:12 AM:

" To Super J - I don't like Golf, or swinmming or the cultural center either but I pay for them too don't I? Get over it. "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 21, 2008 11:11 AM:

" To Super J - Thank you for proving my point. Oh you guys just keep me laughing. "

pounder wrote on Apr 21, 2008 11:08 AM:

" I buy 4 season tickets for the THUNDER My six year old is in the youth league, I buy Gas We eat, We shop We spend thousands of dollars on hockey alone and WE live in another county 30 miles away. THANKS BLOOMINGTON!! THANKS US CELLULAR COLISEUM!!!!!! THANKS PEPSI ICE CENTER!!!!!!!!!!!GOOOO THUNDER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 21, 2008 10:55 AM:

" To The Cats: And we're tired of your winey con-arena posts as well. It's built, grow up and and move on with your life.
NCAA Hockey is boring. If you knew anything of the sport you would understand. Your "organized fighting" comment is just ignorance on display. Please learn about what you are commenting about as to not make yourself look so foolish.
No one cared what you thought before it was built, why do yo think we care now?
Many people enjoy the Coliseum and Ice Center and are glad it's here, deal with it. "

Super J wrote on Apr 21, 2008 10:19 AM:

" I agree with Voice of Reason 2 - Pantagraph, please keep printing stories about the Coliseum. The citizenry of Bloomington (and, in particular, its City Council) needs to be continually reminded about this boondoggle. We don't need to be doomed to repeat this history every time some City Council member wants to pad the pockets of one of their politically connected friends in the construction industry.

I guess the whole idea of decrying "taxation without representation" is null and void if your kids like hockey. "

The Cats wrote on Apr 21, 2008 9:55 AM:

" To Roseann..if you don't like the comments don't read them. Few opposed the original idea of an ice rink in spite of the fact that 3 private ones had been in town earlier and had gone out of business. The cost was going to be about 2mil. Instead we get this debacle. I am tired of your pro-arena posts. "

The Cats wrote on Apr 21, 2008 9:53 AM:

" To bpwampler...you want your kids to role play as thugs? Nice post. NCAA hockey is real hockey what passes for hockey here is really organized fighting. "

voice of reason2 wrote on Apr 21, 2008 9:14 AM:

" ROFL - Please Pantagraph keep printing stories about the Coliseum. I just find the posts in here from all these naysayers too amusing for words. It's like walking the halls of a junior high school after the announcement that there will be no more gum chewing allowed. It’s a bunch of whining uninformed babies spouting nonsense. I love the Coliseum and go there often. But then again I took the old fashioned approach to life so I can afford the tickets. I didn’t have kids until I could afford them, worked through college and got an education, and then a job in a field that pays well. Please Pantagraph we need a story like this every week, it’s great humor.
Please Rolling Eyes, oldlady, pseudo-intellectual and Political Heretic keep up the good work of sounding like you have half a clue. It make’s the day for those of us who do.
"

The Peanut Gallery wrote on Apr 21, 2008 8:56 AM:

" Counting a profit without taking into account the cost of purchase is intellectually dishonest. Is a family which can pay its food and utilities but not the rent [or mortgage] in good financial shape? The proponents of the Coliseum [JUdy Markowitz first mamongt them] lied to the public in order to gain political support for this White Elephant. To those who say 'Get Over It', I respond, "We have a right to air our grievances about the local government [it's called the 'First Amendment] and I, for one, will offer my thoughts as I see fit.

TPG "

New Nana wrote on Apr 21, 2008 8:43 AM:

" the "CITY Council" voted to take on the $29.5 million, so why is it the "TAX PAYERS" are having to pay that, WITHOUT even asking if they wanted to pay for the coliseum's bad management????? Once again, there are so many other things Bloomington should have looked into before we got a coliseum we couldn't support....There are just too many other places close by to go to, places where people can make weekends out of their visit and with LOTS more to offer. "

sass.adam wrote on Apr 21, 2008 8:20 AM:

" Freedom fanatic said the prices are too expensive? Have they tried to get Peoria Chiefs tickets or tried to get into a concert in St. Louis or Chicago? You are crazy if you think it is more expensive to watch a concert or sporting event in bloomington than elsewhere. "

Truth and Justice wrote on Apr 21, 2008 8:20 AM:

" I am so glad that Butler and Nelson were able to learn on the taxpayer's dime. They have now 'settled in and have a better understanding of Coliseum operations.' Who hired these people? And again no 'specific numbers' when it comes to important money matters. The taxpayers again are forced to keep paying and paying. The Coliseum is here so let's at least run it proficiently. "

bpwampler wrote on Apr 21, 2008 6:30 AM:

" As I read these posts I see resentment, jealously, bias, spin, politics, etc. The coliseum with the sports and events have been a tremendous addition to our community and have enhanced my family's lives. We have three grandchildren in youth hockey. We attend all the games and many of the events. Youth hockey has almost doubled since last year. At the annual banquet there was barely enough room for everyone. Our gkids role play as Thunder players, have team jerseys, and have a ton of autographs and very special memories. Just a few short years ago none of this was possible. The Coliseum is now a part of our community. Its no longer about how it got here, who had the say, etc. Its about making it work and making it a valuable part of our community and most of all its for our kids and future generations. I am particularly disappointed to hear people opting out based on past history. I guess if we were to lose the teams, lose the facilities, and lose all the future value, they would be vindicated. Wouldn't that be a sad victory. "

CBD1 wrote on Apr 20, 2008 7:59 PM:

" Those of us who voted No on the Colesium referendum, are not buying into these numbers "

LOL Liberal (:-D) wrote on Apr 20, 2008 6:40 PM:

" I would love to see the pictures that Tom Hamilton must have. "

c.a.t.s. wrote on Apr 20, 2008 5:44 PM:

" hey BJ tom must be on a golf outing with his RIMCO buddies on our dime..
TICK TOCK TOMMY TICK TOCK "

Political Heretic wrote on Apr 20, 2008 2:31 PM:

" And did anyone else besides me notice that the Bloomington City Council refused to publish their minutes for those two years and that the Pantagraph never covered it? "

Ummmm wrote on Apr 20, 2008 2:16 PM:

" To Simple Simon, you truly are simple. If the extreme has 1000 more customers than the Thunder do, it's because they play a shorter season than the thunder. Your math is a little skewed. You play more games but get less customers. Extreme plays 8 games and gets a thousand or more a game. Are you getting the picture yet? "

Rozanne wrote on Apr 20, 2008 11:34 AM:

" RE: I agree with you ONLY IN AMERICA KEEP WHINING PEOPLE IT'S GETTING OLD !!! Everyone should notice that both ice rink in the arena are being used, I was told that the 2nd ice rink is filling so fast, that it is hard for the kids to ice skate. Have you paid attention that the younger kids are in doing something good.
Thier not out in the streets getting to trouble, we have 2 sports events, concerts or young & older people. You just have to give it on sometime. If anyone has come to the Hockey games, you can see younger kids playing hockey that is the furture generation. "

BNHuman wrote on Apr 20, 2008 11:26 AM:

" What does Tom Hamilton have over the city council that he continues to be employed? "

The Cats wrote on Apr 20, 2008 11:09 AM:

" Close it and sell it for whatever someone will pay for it. We would then quantify our losses going forward and not have the uncertainty of how much more it will lose each year. We have to pay for the bonds anyway and, at least from reading this, it seems the arena will never come close to covering those. "

The Cats wrote on Apr 20, 2008 11:06 AM:

" To Dirk...during the discussion in the run up to building this they were offered land at the Interstate Center for free. They would not have had to buy the houses and destroy them and they would have had minimal infastructure needs. Judy didn't want that. "

The Cats wrote on Apr 20, 2008 11:04 AM:

" To Only...another foolish post. Just read...a lot of people care. It is in the news everyday on TV, radio, and here. What is not needed is your attempt to limit what people who disagree with you (legions to be sure from reading the posts here) say. Go on and support the arena...baahhh. "

Freedom fanatic wrote on Apr 20, 2008 9:57 AM:

" I'm surprised there are that many people in the community who actually enjoy hockey and arena football enough to get the attendance they are getting. Both are very boring to me, I would not go even if they gave me free seats. The few events that did interest me, were too expensive to attend. I could attend similar event in other cities, with better seats at lower cost. The Coliseum is just money pit. Since it's built, I wish them good luck and hope they make a profit. I won't contribute until there are events I like and at a price I can afford. "

LOL Liberal (:-D) wrote on Apr 20, 2008 9:53 AM:

" I wonder if those consultants that predicted a "nifty" $2 Million annual profit are still doing consulting work. And if they are, I wonder if they acknowledge this blunder when they talk to other clients/suckers. I wonder how many other blunders they are responsible for, and how many were prior to this one. Finally, I wonder if they have EVER recommended AGAINST building a venue they were commissioned to consult on. I wonder if our city officials looked into their past track record before hiring them and before buying into their predictions. I wonder if our city officials were just seeking out a favorable opinion to justify their for-gone decision and provide them with political cover in case it didn't work out. Finally, I wonder if consultants should be required to disclose their track record with regards to previous work they have done, and whether this might just put most of them out of business. "

Political Heretic wrote on Apr 20, 2008 9:18 AM:

" This venture is dying before my very eyes. Good. Now, if everyone will go to Normal businesses and boycott Bloomington businesses starting on July 1 in protest of the sales tax increase passed to fund the Plutocratic White Whale, it's death can be swift and merciful. Won't happen, but one can hope.
Ultimately, I know what Bloomington is looking to do with the coliseum. They want to attract more educated young professionals. What author Richard Florida calls the creative class. In his book "Rise of the Creative Class", Florida talks of the failed policies of his home town of Pittsburgh and their efforts to attract this type of citizen. They too ignored an advisory referendum that voted overwhelmingly against TWO sports stadiums, both of which are failing miserably.
Why? Because EVERY city has sports stadiums with eye-popping multimedia displays that distract you from the game you've paid to see. And guess what? Young professionals are increasingly less and less interested in spectator sports and more interested in sports that can actually play. Nor are they interested in rodeos, monster truck pulls, or aging classic rot bands.
Anyone else remember the Skatorium in Normal? History repeats, my friends. "

who cares wrote on Apr 20, 2008 9:08 AM:

" well it only took two years for some to finally say the kings not wearing any pants.what was going on the first two years.was everyone in charge saying all is well,remain calm,this was a great idea.no wait a minute this sux,we're screwed beyond the limits of good taste. there's no way this will show a profit unless we get the accountents from ENRON.
"

ONLY IN AMERICA wrote on Apr 20, 2008 7:18 AM:

" WHO CARES- QUIT BEATING THIS DEAD HORSE- NOT TOO MANY PEOPLE CARE.
It was built now deal with it. I as well as others enjoy hockey and other events that come to Bloomington. KEEP WHINING PEOPLE IT'S GETTING OLD !!! "

pseudo-intellectual wrote on Apr 20, 2008 7:11 AM:

" Some brilliant analysis by GM Nelson: a difference of 2,000 attendance per event, in a building that only seats 7,500, makes a big difference in food and beverage: I would imagine revenue from ticket sales is also affected. And his comment that "winning helps..." I guess we couldn't figure that out for ourselves. Where do they find these brilliant executives? I'm delighted that after TWO YEARS Management has a "better" understanding of operations, but what is this little tidbit about no figures being available to compare concession and sponsor revenues- why are we still struggling with things like this? "

Jarhead71 wrote on Apr 20, 2008 6:32 AM:

" SO, did Former Mayor Judy buy a box or suite ticket each and every year? How about ALL of the former City Council members that voted in this venture? Have any or ALL of the "yes" voters bought their season boxes or suites? How about the current Council? Have all of them come out in full support of the coliseum buy purchasing their suites in the dome? It seems only right that the members responsible for saddling the tax payers do their fair share in supporting this endeavor. "

dirkdavebigalow wrote on Apr 20, 2008 12:37 AM:

" They should have built it across the street from the airport. Building it in the most run down part of town that is crowded, has a crime problem and has no parking was stupid. If it was across from the airport it would be more desirable to big name acts and would have been great for the new and very nice hotels and restaurants on the East Side. The only reason they lose money is because of the bad location they chose.
"

oldlady wrote on Apr 19, 2008 9:04 PM:

" Rolling Eyes. WE DID....Isn't that funny, we could see it but they couldn't..or WOULDN'T...even Judy moved. Smart move..now for the rest of them..Please, gas is expensive enough. What has happened to this wonderful town? Shame isn't it? Us old timer's remember the good ole day.s Oh, I must go lock my doors now... "

oldlady wrote on Apr 19, 2008 9:02 PM:

" Can we ever say NO to what they SAID they wouldn't do. Make it a JAIL..that will be the next expense in this town. "

tim50 wrote on Apr 19, 2008 7:44 PM:

" These folks should go into national politics. They seem to be able to spin any negative into a positive. "

The Cats wrote on Apr 19, 2008 7:42 PM:

" To BloomingtonPT...hockey plays 35 games at home to 8 (?) or so fro the Extreme. What a foolish post...of course they put more total people in the seats. Both teams would be a lot more motivated if their owners had been forced to pay for the building. They certainly have little stake in it's success or failure. "

The Cats wrote on Apr 19, 2008 7:39 PM:

" Nice to see they are finally admitting the reality of the situation. The teams are drawing less every year and we depend on the whims (and talents) of the teams owners (who only pay rent and have no stake in the building) and the managers (great job so far???) to put a quality product on the field. Field of dreams is exactly what the financial future of this arena is. "

Waffle of Justice wrote on Apr 19, 2008 7:03 PM:

" Rolling Eyes wrote on Apr 19, 2008 6:34 PM:
" If only voters could have foreseen this mess... " Sadly the only vote that needed to pass was cast before the people had a say. "

Rolling Eyes wrote on Apr 19, 2008 6:34 PM:

" If only voters could have foreseen this mess... "

c.a.t.s. wrote on Apr 19, 2008 6:08 PM:

" so whats the point here? all that were opposed to this dump should go out and buy club seats just because the city council did? i dont think so ! the city has already made us pay for it with the new JUDY TAX and higher fees. theres no way in hell i will willingly hand over more money to bail that dump out. "

757702 wrote on Apr 19, 2008 5:27 PM:

" when will the city say how much tax revenue has increased from the bars and restaurants near the coliseum? Sometimes you have spend money to make money. The Coliseum is good for Bloomington! "

Rozanne wrote on Apr 19, 2008 5:26 PM:

" I agree that we need to keep the PrairieThunder hockey team’s, in the next season I think the Thunder fans seat are going start filling more. After second season, the guys have improve alot more then we thought it would. The football Extreme Team bring around 4,000 in the 3rd season already. Just with the 2 sports teams are going to get better. With the concerts & many other thing going in the center is only going to improve year after year. "

BJ wrote on Apr 19, 2008 4:57 PM:

" Seems someones name is missing from this article. Is Mayor Stockton now replacing Mr. Hamilton's usual comments. I don't see Tom Hamilton's name in this article once. Did they finally tell Hamilton to keep his mouth shut ane quit making a fool of himself??? "

BloomingtonPT wrote on Apr 19, 2008 4:13 PM:

" PrairieThunder are at fault for this too?? WOW, you there at the paragraph always jump to blame the thunder everytime there is a article like this. The Thunder brought in 121,012 people this year. The Extreme havn't done that in all 3 years. By the way, the Extreme are only aver. about 4,100 this year, not 5,000. Probably do some research next time. OOOPPPSS forgot who I was talking to. Research is a last resort! "

Simple Simon wrote on Apr 19, 2008 3:40 PM:

" We need that hockey team, if this place wants any shot at making money we need a proffesional hockey team in there. I am also tire dof hearing how great the attendance is for the Extreme, O'Brien must be dumpin money to the Pantagraph or something they play like 6 games a year and average less than 1000 more than the hockey team which playes 38 home games, I gurantee if the hockey team only played 6 home games they would sell out. Bring back Hockey in Bloomington and Mr Leighton give us a winning a team! "

Ted Kennedy's Swim Instructor wrote on Apr 19, 2008 3:29 PM:

" No surprises with this headline. If you set your expectations low enough, you'll never be disappointed . . . "
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