Lewiston gave another life-saving transfusion to keep the Colisee going despite poor performance by the management firm hired by the city, Global Spectrum.

Statements like “these places operate at a loss” and “events go to Portland and Augusta so we don’t get them” displays non-progressive management. That no major events are booked for the 2008 season, which starts in July, shows me the company doesn’t intend to change their operation and the city will have to bail it out again.

Are there reasons we don’t have home and garden shows, recreational vehicle shows, boat and sportsmen’s shows, monthly flea markets with music from local startup groups, or food tasting events with the Twin Cities’ eateries promoting their special items?

Auburn reaps the ancillary cash flow with the majority of the hotel rooms and variety of eating establishments. Lewiston being the landlord keeps paying the bailout cash. The Colisee will probably never be discussed as a joint venture during the combined cities’ functions.

When something is scheduled, advertising in the areas is nil. Has anyone seen a Colisee event advertised on TV? Not scheduling events saves advertising money.

Keeping the Colisee going with the $500,000 per-year donation is going down the same dead-end street ending up at the same place and same results.

Can, or will, the council take action to keep hockey in town, without adding $500,000 to the taxpayer’s budget?

Hubert Clements, Lewiston

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