The Calgary Sun wonders what sort of implications Edmonton's failing Oilers arena situation will have on Calgary's bid for new digs.
"It has no effect on us," assured Flames president Ken King.
He can say that because his organization has done a good job keeping its plans and timelines under wraps while watching to see how much money the federal, provincial and municipal governments might kick in.
However, given the feds and the province have made it clear they have no desire to prop up NHL buildings, the Flames have to find it somewhat troubling to hear Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi suggest his appetite to chip in for such a project is also lacking.
"For me, it is extremely difficult to justify spending very scarce public money on a professional sports arena," Nenshi said, when asked how closely he's been following Edmonton's sordid arena negotiations.
"Edmonton has a very, very different context, as they need a revitalization in their downtown, which we don't need as much. Before I was elected I told the Flames, 'if you want to have that conversation, I'm willing to have that conversation.' So far, they haven't brought me anything. I'm still waiting for some analysis and an idea of what it is they want. And I have to say even when they've talked to me informally, they've never asked for public money."
Many might be surprised to learn that, behind the scenes, King and his staff have been working closely with the Oilers on their respective arena projects.
One thing the Flames have going for them over the Oilers is the goodwill of its ownership.
"I think the ownership of the Flames are very decent, honourable people," said Nenshi, echoing the sentiment of Calgarians who recognize the work the ownership group has done for the community and local charities.
"They're not out to screw the public."
Entertainment Plaza - TV, Movies, Sports, Music
http://members.shaw.ca/almosthuman99
Babe Of The Month
http://members.shaw.ca/almosthuman99/babeofthemonth.html
Hunk Of The Month
http://members.shaw.ca/almosthuman99/babeofthemonthman.html
No comments:
Post a Comment