To answer the poll question, absolutely the Flames should move if the City doesn't chip in. Should the City pay for the whole thing? No. But the team puts the City on the map to a degree, and whether you like it or not, are the biggest face the City has. How many times has the Calgary Flames opened up doors to people that have googled the team, followed a couple links, and resulted in a stopover or vacation to the City and province when they realize the proximity to the Rockies, the Stampede, and all the other things we have to offer. I would almost bet, the second or third most googled terms after the word Calgary is the word Flames.
The team creates jobs, revenue for businesses, sponsorships, community support, charitable opportunities, plus the need for a building that can double as a venue for many other events that benefit the community, and most importantly civic pride and importance. It makes us feel good we have a big league team. It makes us happy when the team does good. The Flaming C is more the flag of the city, than that horrible thing that's the official flag.
Maybe if they agree to change their name to the "Calgary High Density High Rise lets all ride Bicycles and buses because that's the bests" the mayor will get this thing done toot-sweet. But we need the Flames, more than the Flames need us. There are many markets that would be more than happy to take them off our hands.
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