Wednesday was an eventful day in Calgary.
The Flames now play in the oldest building in the National Hockey League. The Saddledome opened in 1983.
Calgary Flames president of hockey operations, Brian Burke, said cities such as Edmonton and Winnipeg have figured out public money for new arenas is useful for rejuvenating a downtown.
He sarcastically added, “But we are smarter here.”
Burke’s boss, Ken King – who is the president and CEO of Calgary Sports and Entertainment – then issued a statement saying Burke is not the company’s spokesperson regarding a new events centre.
King said he’s optimistic there will be a positive conclusion in a dialogue with the city.
Good on King for being the voice of reason in a contentious issue. Good on Burke for properly stating a new arena would be an investment the city of Calgary would benefit from.
Other cities have proven it to be true.