Opinions Vary On Whether Show Can Continue

The Credit Union Centre, a sports complex owned by the city of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, has fired its manager, Brian Swidrovich, over questions about the use of city funds to woo business development. But Swidrovich has also been the point man for what today is known as the Cameco Canada Remembers Air Show. Not everyone is confident the show can continue without his leadership.

The issue in the firing was a trip to Phoenix made by Swidrovich; William Antonishyn, another senior manager; and three clients to pursue sponsorship opportunities, and the possibility of getting a CFL team for the city. City officials charge the $7,000 spent on flights, golf and meals are unrelated to any business of the city or Credit Union Centre. Swidrovich and Antonishyn have filed suit over their firing, claiming the trip was consistent with established practice.

Regarding the airshow, Jim McKinny, a Korean War vet whose been involved with the show since it started in the mid-1990s, tells the StarPhoenix, "It will be the end of the air show, I'm sure of that. I know what's involved and don't know anybody else that would put that time and dedication into it."

John Cudahy of the International Council of Air Shows, says the show could go on, but it won't be easy. "It is especially difficult to do in short order and with people who have not been involved in the process before. It will be more difficult without Brian than it would have been with Brian. I hope the people in Saskatoon rally behind the show and keep it the excellent entertainment event that it has always been."

Saskatoon Mayor Don Atchison is also a member of the centre's board, and seems to feel others can simply pick up the notes from past events and go forward. He tells StarPhoenix, "The information that is there from before could be used. It's a question of believing whether it's a viable program for the future for us."

The CUC board is expected to decide on the 2012 event by April. The show is normally held in August.

FMI: www.canadaremembersairshow.com