They just don't get it

Why would you NOT want hockey in Greensboro?

I keep reading the N&R articles about the future of the Generals (1,2) and keep asking myself why they City wouldn't want a hockey team as it's major tenant?  They proved last year that the city and Coliseum Director Matt Brown could run the team at a break even.  Even the N&R admits this...

Although the team's operations are expected to break even this season, Brown has said not having the team could hurt the coliseum. Revenue from concessions, parking and luxury boxes could drop if the coliseum was empty for the team's 36-game home schedule.

The coliseum predicts it will lose $1.8 million this year and again next year. Any losses it incurs are made up by general tax revenue.

So what.  Look at the bigger picture folks.  Brown said it himself in a 1999 article in the Triad Business Journal (free registration required)...

...And it is why Brown was proud of his complex's performance, despite its continuing need for hefty taxpayer support. The coliseum often puts on events it knows won't put it in the black, but that overall will benefit the community. One study put the Greensboro complex's economic impact value at $40 million a year.

Hmmm...a $1.8 million loss vs over $40 million (to which I'm sure the Generals and their fans contribute at least a few million) in economic impact for the local community.  All I can say is...DUH!!!

Add to that a more favorable weekend schedule for the upcoming season and the potential benefits the Generals could reap from an NHL lockout for the upcoming season and again I say...DUH!!!

Why would you NOT want hockey in Greensboro?