So Long Seattle Supersonics: The Blame Game Goes into Overdrive

For wiping out any real fiscal benefit of this franchise by asking those same taxpayers to foot the bill for a new palace for another greedy sports owner. Those same citizens for approving almost $121 million dollars in new taxes to build that palace in economically tight times where those same dollars could be used for things more desperately needed.

The drug problem in Oklahoma City and the entire State is out of control and in desperate need of more money to combat those turning kids and every-day citizens into meth-addled zombies. There is an excellent chance the Drug Task Force in OKC will soon have to be disbanded for lack of federal and local funds. 

A recent study show that three areas in the world have experienced a notable decline in the health of their residents. The former Soviet Union. Sub-Saharan Africa. And Oklahoma City USA. Child obesity, child abuse and neglect, inadequate prenatal care among just a few issues on a growing and alarming list of health issues.  

The Oklahoma dam control system is in dire need of repair, and the State sits on it's collective hands not taking quick action to save the livelihoods of farmers and protecting homes from being washed away in a flood. 

Home developers in several sections within city limits have left residents with sewage systems that are backing up into the living rooms, and the investigation into how those same developers were allowed to leave such shoddy work behind is, of course, lagging. 

The City claims they were unaware of an area where many elderly people reside that has poor lighting and an invitation to crime against those on fixed incomes who have paid their dues over the years, deserving of more attention.

And the residents of Oklahoma City are turning $121 million dollars over for a new arena and the proud right to say "We're a pro sports town now!!!"

Pathetic. Inexcusable. Criminal. 

What might stop this vicious and damaging circle? Simple. Cities need to stop allowing themselves to be used, abused, and tossed into the historical trash bin by team owners and Leagues who have the power to raise their own cash. Who have the sponsorship contacts to defray stadium and arena building costs?

Who are flush with US and international cash, still digging deep into those areas of the planet yearning to hand over their money? Owners with deep pockets who know they will never have to look for loose change in those pockets.

Owners who are allowed by respective Leagues to purchase teams even when a cursory examination reveals some suspicion about their long term financial health.

Who have no need to look into any alternative financing plans because they know that somewhere out there, another sucker is being born.

And that sucker is always willing to dig into someone else's pockets. And more often than not, those pockets belong to another gaggle of suckers.

In the end, the people of Seattle and Oklahoma City were robbed in broad daylight. The difference is one group never had a chance. The other group is taking their chances.

And both sides are losers.

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