Yeah, the economy is wreaking havoc on area nightspots and this is yet another sign its going to get worse before it gets better.  It was reported this morning The Coliseum entertainment complex is filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. As I observed in my first visit to this place, the people behind it spend a lot of money making this place what it is.  I knew they would have to bring in a lot of business to pay for all of it. Two problems I observed from the beginning: 1) Image.  The Coliseum is a great place for adults and kids alike.  I have heard from many dads how they enjoy being able to take the kids on a early evening or Saturday afternoon, enjoy a beer or two, and watch the football game.  It’s definitely a relaxed family environment. However, this family environment hurts them come late night.  Adults who want to enjoy drinks after 9pm must do so alongside young teenagers.  Add to the fact they have some silly rules about drinks in the gaming area.  (not to mention none of the games have cup holders like they do at similar places like Dave and Busters) Because of the mixed age crowd, adults have to wear a plastic bracelet to drink where there are underage persons.  Also, they don’t allow glass outside of the bar area.  People over 25 do not like to drink out of plastic cups!  One night, I was with a group of people and the staff made my friend pour her $10 martini into a plastic cup when she walked out onto the gaming floor!  This is one sure-fire way to turn away business from the people who have money to spend on entertainment.  Is this a kid friendly place or an adult playground? 2) Food.  It all comes back to the food.  From the beginning, The Coliseum tried to be “upscale” with their menu offerings.  They boasted “World-class food” and fine wine while dining at their main restaurant.  Guess what?  The food never surpassed that of local chain restaurants.  “Upscale” doesn’t mix with a casual dining atmosphere, sports bars, and video games.  “Upscale” only means you want to charge more for less.  The Coliseum won’t get people to stay all night if their food and menu does not improve.  People need value right now for a meal out. I really do hope this place survives because it truly is a one of a kind place on the West Shore.  There was always no doubt this was a very ambitious project from the start and they need to sell a lot game cards and $2 drafts to pay for all the overhead and staff that comes with it.  I hope this Chapter 11 process forces The Coliseum to look outside the economic issues and makes them look deep inside at some of the problems they face internally.  Let’s hope the changes don’t come too late.