Unsolicited advice is easy to give, harder to take

Date: 1/6/2021

Few people enjoy receiving unsolicited advice. I’ve had people tell me what I need to do with these newspapers. “Want some easy content? Just allow elected officials to write columns. They’re do it for free.” Or I’ve received this suggestion: “Want some easy content? Ask high school students to write a column. They’re do it for free.”

Neither really works.

I had people tell me how to lose weight. I’ve had people tell me I shouldn’t be smoking cigars and brown liquor.

I get it. I have flaws on display and people are interested in seeing me improve or making me feel bad because they are perfect and I’m not.

Despite that, I’m offering some unsolicited advice. So, forgive me.

2020 has been one of the worst years in American history and 2021 will probably much more of the same until enough of us have the vaccine that will allow life and commerce to become “normal” once again.

I think it’s fair to say that many companies will have to examine their way of doing business in order to get through the challenges that 2021 will undoubtedly face in the first half of the year.

Here are a few suggestions for one of our most prominent businesses. I’m making these points in the spirit of wanting it to succeed. I want it to make money and employ people and be the economic engine it could be.

So, MGM Resorts CEO Bill Hornbuckle and MGM Springfield President Chris Kelly don’t hate me. I doubt these suggestions will be well received or paid any attention, but I’m sincere about them.

Many people in the region who enjoy going to MGM Springfield are worried about the future of the casino complex. The casino was not living up to its own expectations before the pandemic and this year has been a wash for it.

Since there is still downtime, I’d like to suggest the following: take a serious look at what you offer and make changes now.

I think the complex is beautifully designed and has the potential to be much more than it is. I understand additional investments at this time may be onerous but they are necessary.

Give the Armory building an actual purpose. I can’t count the number of times I’ve seen people march up the stairs and peer into the place wondering what it was. It’s been a great spot for photos but it needs to be much more.

The demographics for the casino’s amenities run a little older so why not offer a dance club? Yes, yes, I know one of the bars has a deejay but that is not enough. And no, having an upscale dance club will not hurt the downtown bar scene. And yes, there would have to be a security presence.

A dance club would attract younger people, which many businesses want.

Here’s another idea: Don’t want a dance club? Make the Armory building into a craft beer center. People travel for miles to experience a cool taproom with craft beer. This area is rich with excellent breweries. Why not capitalize on that? Yes, I know you have many beers at Tap, your sports bar, but that would be strengthened with additional craft beers.

Focus Springfield will be moving out its area at the corner of State and Main streets later in 2021. Once again there is tremendous potential there. If you put in retail, it has to be local and it has to be affordable. This is isn’t Las Vegas. We don’t have a bunch of “whales” swimming up the Connecticut River anxious to spend their big gaming dollars in Springfield.

Take a look around at local-made products and establish a “Made in Western Massachusetts” store. That would be a great shop for casino visitors and well as those who simply want to shop locally.

Part of the philosophy of the casino was buying locally to make a positive impact on local businesses. I know MGM Springfield does do this, but more could be done.

Finally, the marketing for the casino needs to be improved. I’m sorry, but having a few billboards on Interstate 91 is not enough. While I understand the need to draw people from Hartford and Worcester, Western Massachusetts is your base. Advertising locally will pay off.

Okay, take these suggestions for what they are: well-meaning efforts to boost your business.