The Freep’s Nick Martin asks the obvious question about the U of W situation: what about the next threat? I see the U is continuing with bag checks and increased security today, but doesn’t appear to have a firm plan for going forward.
I nearly choked in hearing the Axeman on the radio yesterday, talking about how his Foreign Affairs experience with terrorists taught him that you can’t give in to these people, or you’ve completely lost control. Memo to Lloyd: you did lose control. You let some nasty graffiti on a bathroom wall turn your campus into Alcatraz, and gave the students a free pass to sleep in. Yeah, you sure showed that vandal who’s boss.
I appear to have a mind meld with CJOB’s Vic Grant on this issue (which is frightening in itself), as he completely scorches Axworthy in his “Excuse Me” segment from this morning.
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In another column bashing the Asper Stadium plan, the Sun’s Tom Brodbeck finds that Canad Inns Stadium is about average age and condition compared to other CFL fields. Further, Tom asks what’s wrong with the idea of simply refurbishing the existing stadium for a fraction of the cost of a new building.
I was wondering the same when attending the Banjo Bowl a few weeks back. To be certain, it’s not the most luxurious venue around — the seats are way cramped — but it does the job. Maybe it’s just me, but the football experience seems different than baseball or hockey. I feel like I’m actually there for the game, not for the promotions, entertainment and creature comforts. In contrast, the only reason I ever attend a Goldeyes games is because of the stadium, as I couldn’t care less whether we win as long as I get a smokie, a beer and some mini-donuts.
The Bombers produced a report a few years back that outlined a variety of upgrade scenarios, ranging from $11 million to $30 million. The most expensive option included structural upgrades, improved food service and washroom facilities, elevators, enhanced weather protection, 18 luxury boxes and a new pressbox. All this at a price that’s still $90 MILLION below the cost of a new stadium.
If there’s concern an upgraded stadium still wouldn’t produce enough revenue for the team, then Asper and the governments could set aside $10 million in a fiscal stabilization endowment fund for the team [returning $500K to $1 million per year], and they’d still save 2/3 the cost of a new building.
When you consider that Slick Vic Toews isn’t budging on the issue of federal funding for this project ["no means no"], it becomes obvious that Asper and the Bombers have got to start calling some new plays. As it stands, they’re at third and ten, and Milt and Charlie just limped off the field.
Filed under: Winnipeg Free Press, Winnipeg Sun
