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September 1, 2010     

 

Association News 


Time Is Right To Start Your Young Professional Membership

Do you know a Young Professional that could benefit from being a member? In addition to becoming part of a global network of venue leaders, advantages are: networking, venue-specific training, participation at world renown schools such as the Public Assembly Facility Management School at Oglebay and the Academy for Venue Safety & Security, the Mentoring Program, receive electronic access to Facility Manager and Venue Safety & Security magazines and the online membership directory.

Qualifications for membership are:

     • Open to any individual who is under 30 years of age
     • Birth date must be provided to meet membership
       qualifications
     • Actively involved in the management of a qualified
       public assembly venue at a level below the top two
       levels of management at the venue (e.g. Executive,
       General Assistant General Manager or Department Head)

Dues are $250 annually. A payment plan is available which makes membership very affordable!

Note: The Board of Directors recently approved extending Young Professional Membership to the Allied Membership ranks also. This is a perfect chance to help launch the career of an up and coming individual, a graduate, new manager, etc. Contact Membership Services at 800.935.4226 ext.1016 or 1008 with questions. Sign up online by clicking here.  


We Have A Winner!

Terry W. Dederich, Associate Executive Director, US Cellular Center and Paramount Theatre in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, won the $250 promotion to update his membership profile onsite at VENUECONNECT in Houston.

Terry came by the membership booth to check the status of the drawing at exactly 11:30 am on Monday morning. Kim Bedier, CFE, General Manager, Comcast Arena, was working the “Path to Leadership” booth and did the honors. Terry was ecstatic that his name was pulled! Please congratulate him… send kudos via VenueNet.


Chapter Buzz: Region IV

The Pacific Northwest Chapter of Region IV will be hosting their second Chapter Meeting of the year on Thursday, September 16, 2010. All venue personnel are invited to attend (IAAM Membership not required).

The evening will start off in the Tacoma Dome Exhibition Hall with outstanding networking opportunities, a presentation on topical venue issues, a tour of the Dome’s new overlook suite area, and, of course, great food provided by event sponsor Centerplate. After the reception, guests are encouraged to join us for a performance of one of the hottest touring shows on the road… Cirque Du Soleil – Alegria.

This outstanding event is free with a suggested $5 donation to the IAAM Foundation. To RSVP for both the reception and the show contact Adam Cook (acook@comcastarenaeverett.com) by September 9.

We’ll see you in Tacoma.


AMC: Can You Feel The Energy?

The final day to register online for the Arena Management Conference is Friday, September 3! AMC offers exceptional speakers and panelists, unique educational sessions and multiple networking opportunities; join us in the thriving city of Tulsa, OK, September 11-14.

Exceptional Presenters:
     • Keynote speaker Richard Hight
     • Social Network & Technology expert Corbin Ball
     • Agency leaders: John Huie from Creative Artists Agency,
       Mark Roeder from William Morris Endeavor, and Kevin Neal
       from Buddy Lee Attractions.

Enlightening Education Topics:
     • The future of ticketing
     • Rigging and fall protection
     • Natural disaster recovery
     • Bridging the generational gap
     • And more!

Enjoyable Networking Opportunities:
     • Ed Burch Memorial Golf Tournament: Hit the links at the
       Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa on the Cherokee Hills
       Golf Course. Sponsored by Centerplate and Robbins Sport
       Flooring; cigars provided by Staff Pro.

     • Harvest Stomp: Head out to the Stone Bluff Cellars for an
       afternoon of sampling and good, old-fashioned stomping. Wine tasting, winery and vineyard
       tour, and gourmet lunch basket are included. Amateur or connoisseur, you're guaranteed
       to have a great time.

Contact Brenda Pennington for more information. Both events have an additional charge.
 


ICCC: Grow From The Past, Prepare For The Future

Geared toward venues of all sizes, the International Convention Center Conference, held September 23-25, offers relevant and diverse education opportunities through expert led sessions as well as multiple networking opportunities. This is a conference you don't want to miss, so register today!

     • Keynote speaker Rear Admiral William Douglas French graduated from
       Vanderbilt University and holds advanced degrees from the Naval Postgraduate School and the
       Naval War College. He has received numerous awards and medals and will share his insights on
       “The Importance of Leadership in Trying Times.”

     • Make Sustainability Work for You: Learn how you can benefit from EPA’s “WasteWise" and
       Energy Star's Green Venues programs. This session includes information and anecdotes about
       how to improve environmental performance through waste reduction, energy savings, water
       conservation, reduced use of toxics and sustainable food and beverage services. There will
      also be an update on CIC’s APEX (Accepted Practices Exchange) Green Standards.

     • Golf Tournament: Enjoy the beautiful San Diego weather while catching up with colleagues and
       making new connections at the Riverwalk Golf Club. Contact Brenda Pennington at
       Brenda.Pennington@IAAM.org or call 972.538.1013 for more information.

Experience, relax, indulge and create lasting memories at the Opening Reception hosted by The San Diego Convention Center, sponsored by Centerplate and SDCC. Online registration ends September 16, so now is the time to sign up! 


ICMC 2010 Highlights Guest Services With Special Disney Training

Professional guest services management must keep venue guests not only safe and secure but also feeling valued and well-treated. In 2010, the annual International Crowd Management Conference (ICMC), November 7-10, will expand its focus on crowd management to also address the importance of comprehensive guest services management.

As a special feature this year, ICMC has just added an exceptional opportunity to this year’s conference in Kansas City: A one-day training session in guest services management led by Disney Institute, recognized around the globe for teaching the premier Disney brand of business excellence, including quality guest experiences.

Included in the ICMC registration fee, the training class will not only teach Disney philosophy and strategies, but also how they can be applied and adapted to all types of venue operations. This year’s training session also kicks off a new three-year program being launched by the ICMC Committee that will enable participants to earn professional designation in guest services management (GSM).

Disney Institute remains the only professional development company that offers participants a “living laboratory” at Disney Theme Parks and Resorts. Disney’s brand of business excellence is also being taught at locations across the United States and, to date, in more than 45 countries around the world.

The training session with Disney Institute will take place on Tuesday, November 9, 2010.

Join guest services managers, security managers, industry leaders and venue professionals in Kansas City, Missouri, November 7-10, 2010:

     • Attend top-notch educational sessions about the latest and most relevant guest services
       protocols and crowd management techniques. Topics include fan interactions/behavior
       monitoring; incident management; code and regulations update; using the train crowd manager
       and developing a venue-specific training program; and pyrotechnic regulations and safety
      procedures.

     • Hear keynote speaker Bob DuPuy, Chief Operating Officer, Major League Baseball.

     • See the latest services and products in the Technology Showcase.

     • Learn the fundamentals of crowd management and security during opening day Boot Camp, as
       well as guest services management techniques; OSHA and employee safety; and participate in
       an open discussion about venues’ pressing concerns.
     • Take advantage of networking opportunities with industry professionals.
     • Participate in tours of Sprint Center, and Kauffman and Arrowhead Stadiums.
     • Take away practical applications and lessons learned.

What’s ICMC? The International Crowd Management Conference (ICMC) was launched in 1982 in response to the 1979 tragedy in Cincinnati, Ohio, at a concert for the rock group The Who. At that concert, 11 fans were crushed to death and scores were injured because of poor crowd management. IAAM has been committed ever since to helping venue managers adopt effective crowd management strategies while ensuring premier guest services through the annual ICMC.

Learn more: Check for program and registration details on the ICMC website. For more about ICMC, contact Harold Hansen, IAAM Director of Life Safety & Security, at 773.973.2049; e-mail harold-hansen@sbcglobal.net.


  IAAM VenueNet Tips: Don’t Recreate The Wheel!

Taking the time to craft a position description, a policy or something of the sort can feel like a tedious chore when you know that one already exists. Instead of starting from scratch to recreate the wheel, do a search on VenueNet and see if something exists to help you along. If you already have all of your documents and descriptions in order, take a few minutes to upload your documents to the Resource Libraries.

Take part in the September challenge to see who can post the most documents to the Resource Libraries. It’s easy! The second menu option under Resources is “Add Document.” Click there and follow the directions.

Collaborate, communicate and stay up-to-date with IAAM VenueNet.


Research Needs Survey Underway

The IAAM Research and Knowledge Advancement Council and Benchmarking Advisory Committee are listening to you. Click here to share your venue research benchmarking priorities and ideal outcomes. Needs and rankings submitted will be used to create a long term strategy and a rolling plan for ongoing data collection.

Your five (5) minute contribution of time will help assess the overarching data and benchmarking needs of the venue industry which will help create relevant survey tools that will not only be easy to input data but will also be easy to create your own customized reports, saving you valuable time and resources.

Respond by Friday September 3. Please direct your questions to dana.glazier@iaam.org


Brad Mayne To Chair Silent Auction Committee

Brad Mayne, CFE, president and CEO of Center Operating Company/American Airlines Center, accepted to chair the Silent Auction Committee for the coming year leading into VenueConnect in Phoenix in 2011. The announcement was made by Dean Dennis, chair of the IAAM Foundation Board of Trustees.

“We thank Brad for his continuing commitment to IAAM and our Foundation,” said Dennis.


Webinar: Sustainability 101 Scheduled For Tuesday, September 7

In the world of public assembly, sustainability is important for the environment, community and venue itself. While some venues are achieving LEED Platinum certification, others are still asking “Where do we start?” In response, IAAM and the Sustainability Committee offer you "Sustainability 101," a webinar scheduled for Tuesday, September 7 at 3 p.m. (CDT) and specifically designed for venue professionals who have not yet or just begun the journey toward a more environmentally friendly and cost-savings building. This webinar is a must for any public assembly venue’s “Green Team” or anyone needing basic training in implementing sustainable programs.

Hear from industry professionals who have firsthand experience implementing, enforcing and upholding sustainable programs. Presenters: Sara Zetts, Facilities Manager, San Diego Convention Center Corp., San Diego, CA; Nancy Strauss, Resource Conservation Coordinator, Del Mar Fairgrounds, Del Mar, CA; and Ron Barham, FMP, BOCII, Building Superintendent, San Diego Convention Center Corp., San Diego, CA.

What you will learn:

     • The basics of how to start a recycling program, what is considered recyclable and the best
       methods for effective and efficient recycling
     • Reduce energy consumption, reducing your venue’s carbon footprint and water conservation
     • Zero or minimal cost practices including government grants

Cost: $49 members/alliance, $69 non-members. All attendees can receive 2 CFE points.
Register Now!
   


Senior Executive Symposium Offers Excellence In Learning

Join your colleagues at the Senior Executive Symposium (SES) at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York on May 16–19, 2010. This intensive three-day program is entering its 15th year. Make this your year to attend the program for the first time or return and complete your third year. Attending the SES provides executives from the venue management industry with an opportunity to share, compare and combine academic knowledge amongst peers and a select group of industry executives.

This year’s program is designed to focus on Leadership Culture for the Future!

Among the courses will be Ethical Dilemma & Diversity led by Dr. Kate Walsh, Loyalty & Brand Management led by Dr. Rob Kwortnik and Applied HR Strategies led by Mr. Robert B. Perry.

Dr. Kate Walsh is an Associate Professor of Management and holds a Fred G. Peelen Professorship of Hospitality Global Strategy at the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration.

     Ethical Dilemma: Participants will obtain key insights into ways to frame and resolve critical
     ethical dilemmas at work.


Dr. Rob Kwortnik is an Associate Professor of Services Marketing in Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration.

     Loyalty & Brand Management: The components of loyalty discussed include value creation,
     communication, and the process of how value is created.


Mr. Robert Perry is the President of Robert B. Perry Associates, a consulting firm specializing in Human Resources Management.

     Applied HR Strategies: This course will allow participants to leave behind any preconceived
     notions they might have concerning management and instead look to new solutions.


Budget Now! Total cost of Tuition and Lodging: $2449. Save the Date! Register Now!
 
For more information, contact: Rodney Williams, MBA at 972-538-1019 or rodney.williams@iaam.org.
 
The IVY LEAGUE education for venue management professionals!


The 2011 PAFMS At Oglebay Now Accepting Applications

The Public Assembly Facility Management School (PAFMS @ Oglebay) is the best professional education program available for public assembly facility managers. Both seasoned managers and people new to the industry find the school to be exceptionally valuable. The 2011 school scheduled for June 4-9 at the Oglebay Resort & Conference Center in Wheeling, West Virginia is now accepting applications.

The program consists of one week of intensive instruction in each of two consecutive years. The content, format and structure of the instructional program were developed by the Board of Regents in cooperation with IAAM's Board of Education. The curriculum is designed to enhance the professional education of managers of public facilities such as amphitheaters, arenas, auditoriums, convention centers/exhibit halls, performing arts venues, racetracks, stadiums and university complexes.

The PAFMS School allows participants to earn credits toward IAAM's Certified Facilities Executive (CFE) program. Attendees who successfully complete the two-year school can earn 40 points toward the 300 total points required for application to the CFE program.

Budget Now! Package rates for the school are $2,160.43 (single occupancy) or $1,723.63 (double occupancy) includes all taxes.

Below are tentative topics included for the June 4-9, 2011 school year:

     • Financial Management I & II
     • Marketing, Advertising & Public Relations
     • Sustainability & Green Initiatives
     • Producing & Promoting In-House Events
     • Media Relations
     • Risk Management & Insurance
     • Food Service Management
     • Professional Ethics
     • Event Production

Submit Your Application Today

Visit the website or contact Rodney Williams, MBA at rodney.williams@iaam.org or 972-538-1019 for more information.

Earn CFE Points for attending.


The Graduate Institute Is “The Next Level”

Make plans to come back to Oglebay June 4-9 to attend the Graduate Institute to further develop your management and leadership skills with your peers in the public assembly facility management industry. The IAAM Public Assembly Facility Management School - Graduate Institute is an advanced educational program presented by IAAM to develop current managers and to expand their universe of management, leadership skills and understanding through the experience of the PAFMS Graduate Institute.

Courses include:

     • Strategic Planning
     • Leadership/Management
     • Problem Solving/Decision Making
     • Humans as Resources, and
     • Communication.

Much like an MBA program, the Graduate Institute can be most effective after a few years of work experience, although not a requirement. Let us know when you are ready, but make your plans now! Expand your public assembly facility industry network while having the “third year” experience.

Find out why Graduate Institute attendees said, “Longer classes allow for more in-depth knowledge, smaller classes allow better interaction.” “The Wheeling Feeling is still here.” “Very focused on leadership skills needed to go to the next level in my organization.” “Aids in CFE certification.” “It is priceless!”

Budget Now! Package rates for the 2011 school are $2,261.43 (single occupancy) and $1,824.63 (double occupancy) all taxes included.

The Graduate Institute is “The Next Level.” Submit Your Application Today.

Visit the website or contact Rodney Williams, MBA at rodney.williams@iaam.org or 972-538-1019 for more information.

Earn CFE Points for attending.  


VC2.0 Is Here On October 1

Did not get a chance to attend VenueConnect in Houston? If you still need to know what’s happening in the Venue Management industry, then register for our virtual edition of VenueConnect – VC2.0!

VC2.0 is your connection to important sessions from the annual meeting VenueConnect. The virtual showcase provides selected educational sessions relevant to the challenges and opportunities of today’s venue manager. View the following educational sessions at your leisure.

CONTENT: Get access to more than five hours of professional development. These virtual sessions include:

     • How Does Your Venue Taste? - Learn how to create, evaluate, and improve the sensory brand
       of your facility for your fans’ enhanced experience.
     • Identify & Impact Your Audience...Is Your Marketing Hitting Your Target? - Hear from
       seasoned professionals about their most successful campaigns along with new ideas to test in
       your own facility.
     • Live Leaner with Today’s Tight Budgets – Discover how you can provide outstanding customer
       service and tighten your belt at the same time.
     • Ticketing Systems: In–House or Contracted – Look more closely at the pros and cons of in–
        house and contracted ticketing systems.
     • Sustainability Benchmarking for IAAM Facilities – Find out more about the IAAM’s latest efforts
       to create an association-wide benchmarking process for sustainability.

Assemble your staff and make a day out of it:

COST PER SITE: $199 members/$299 non-members


Visit the website or contact Rodney Williams, MBA at rodney.williams@iaam.org or 972-538-1019 for more information.

Participants receive 2 CFE Points!*  


AVSS 2011: Apply Now To Advance Your Training In Safety & Security

The Academy for Venue Safety & Security, February 20-25, 2011, is the only source for customized safety and security training, designed specifically for the public assembly industry.

AVSS offers venue professionals two five-day training programs focused on security planning and life safety management. Students start with Core Training in year one and return for Advanced Training in year two. AVSS students also complete various Specialized Courses.

The February 2011 AVSS will be held at the American Airlines Training & Conference Center (AATC), Fort Worth, Texas. Apply online today to guarantee your seat in these popular programs.

For an all-inclusive cost of $2,480 per program for Core Training and Advanced Training, which covers all lodging, meals and instructional materials, AVSS students:

     • Receive in-depth training to prepare, prevent, respond to and recover from many types of
       emergencies at public assembly facilities.
     • Learn the latest and most relevant safety and security training available to venue managers.
     • Refine their venue emergency plans and communication strategies.
     • Engage in classroom and tabletop exercises, and take away practical strategies and solutions.
     • Interact with top faculty who are industry leaders and recognized experts in safety and
       security.

Four Specialized Courses are scheduled for AVSS 2011. In response to industry requests, AVSS schedules Specialized Courses to enable students to complete more than one course during the weeklong AVSS.

     • Certified Aggression Control Manager Training, February 19–20, 2011: $1,400
     • Safety and Security for Persons with Disabilities, February 19–20, 2011: $1,120
     • Facility Management Law School, February 21–22, 2011: $1,250
     • Severe Weather Preparedness, February 23–24, 2011: $1,250

All-inclusive tuition—and special discounts: Specialized Course tuition includes costs for all instructional materials and all lodging and meals at the AATC. Take two Specialized Courses and receive a 5 percent tuition discount on the cost of both courses. Take three courses and get a 10 percent tuition discount on the cost of all three courses. Plus, 10 scholarships for Certified Aggression Control Manager Training, each worth $280 to reduce all-inclusive tuition to $1,120, are available to the first 10 students who apply.

To graduate from AVSS with recognition as an emergency preparedness professional, a student must successfully:

     • Complete 160 hours of Core and Advanced Training and Specialized Courses
     • Develop an emergency preparedness plan for your venue
     • Pass the final exam

Apply online today. For more information, contact Harold Hansen, IAAM Director of Life Safety & Security, at harold-hansen@sbcglobal.net, or call 773.973.2049; or Frank Poe, AVSS Dean, at joefpoe@att.net, call 469.261.1095.  


AVSS Webinar Preps Venues For Safer Workplaces, Tougher OSHA Scrutiny

Save the date of October 26 at 10:30 a.m. (CDT) for a webinar to make your workplace safer. In light of various tragedies such as the death of a SeaWorld killer-whale trainer and stagehand fatalities, American theme parks and entertainment venues are getting tougher scrutiny about workplace safety from the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. OSHA, the nation’s watchdog over workplaces, is hoping to impose tougher requirements and more costly penalties for non-compliance. This means venue management must be even more ready to put safety strategies to work—and know the answers to such questions as:

     • How do you maintain a safe workplace?
     • What are your venue’s responsibilities under OSHA safety regulations (29 CFR 1910 and 1926)?
     • What are the legal (civil and criminal) implications of non-compliance?
     • How can you educate employees to avoid obvious hazardous conditions?

The next AVSS webinar at 10:30 a.m. CDT on October 26 will cover these and other critical issues in a 90-minute session, led by expert AVSS faculty members: Steven A. Adelman, Esq., Adelman Law Group, Phoenix, Ariz., and Chris Rogers, Director of Risk Control, Aon Risk Services, Thousand Oaks, Calif.

Participants also will learn about OSHA’s priorities, how to handle a meeting with OSHA and prepare for an inspection, and gain insight on what’s coming from this agency in the future.

Plan now to participate in this valuable 90-minute webinar. For one registration ($49 for IAAM members, $69 for non-members), any number of employees can be involved in this webinar. Registration will be open later this month.

For more information, contact Harold Hansen, IAAM Director of Life Safety & Security, at 773.973.2049; or e-mail harold-hansen@sbcglobal.net  


Registered Yet For RSAT? Get Free Help To Rate Your Risks

The Risk Self-Assessment Tool (RSAT) is a free online program that makes assessing risks and vulnerabilities at large public assembly venues both faster and easier. The stadium and arena version of RSAT is available now. RSAT can help stadium and arena managers assess gaps in security, see how current security measures compare with other venues, and identify and prioritize areas where protective measures, training and procedures are most needed.

The online RSAT for performing arts center (PAC) venues is currently being programmed, and DHS hopes to release this version by September. PAC managers should be on the alert for announcements via AVSS e-blasts and in future issues of AVSS E-Update.

How to get RSAT: To start using RSAT, you’ll need to register at: https://rsat.iac.anl.gov/register.

     ● The registration form will ask: Where did you learn about RSAT? Select “IAAM.” This will guide
       the DHS vetting process to approve your access to the RSAT.
     ● Once approved, you will receive two e-mails from DHS that provide (1) username and
       instructions, and (2) a password.
     ● An RSAT user guide is available for download after logging in.

RSAT is the result of a cooperative project between the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and IAAM’s Life Safety Council.

For questions or help with registering: Contact Harold Hansen, IAAM Director of Life Safety & Security, at 773.973.2049; e-mail harold-hansen@sbcglobal.net.  



INDUSTRY NEWS


In Memoriam: Jane Podgurski

Jane Podgurski, longtime general manager of the Warner Theatre in downtown Washington, D.C., passed away in Rhode Island following complications from long-term illnesses.

Podgurski was general manager at the time of the Warner’s 1992 reopening after a three-year renovation and was responsible for management of all facets of the operation including booking, budgeting, and staff supervision. As regional general manager for the Houston-based Theatre Management Group and subsequently vice president for theatrical operations, Clear Channel Entertainment-Theatrical, she oversaw management of the Mechanic Theatre in Baltimore, MD and was instrumental in development of the renovation of the Hippodrome Theatre in Baltimore. A promotion brought her to the New England office of Clear Channel Entertainment-Theatrical in 2004.

Prior to arriving in Washington, D.C., she was general manager of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Fort Lauderdale, FL for five years, at the War Memorial Auditorium also in Fort Lauderdale, and at Omni Auditorium at Broward (FL) Community College. She was graduated from McGill University in Montreal.

Podgurski was a member of IAAM, a secretary of District V, and an instructor in the early days of the Public Assembly Facility Management School at Oglebay.

Her passions included sailing and traveling. A big fan of tennis, Wimbledon and the U.S. Open were high points on her calendar.

Washington, D.C. area friends and former colleagues are gathering to celebrate her smile, leadership, friendship, and legacy on Monday September 20, 2010 at the Warner Theatre, 13th Street N.W. between E & F Streets. A guestbook for remembrances is at http://rememberingjane2010.blogspot.com and honoringjane@ymail.com  


TEAM Coalition Welcomes Newest Board Member In Ovations Food Services

Ovations Food Services, one of the nation’s largest providers of food and beverage services to public assembly facilities throughout North America, has joined Techniques for Effective Alcohol Management (TEAM Coalition), which is committed to promoting responsible drinking and positive fan behavior at sports and entertainment facilities.

“Ovations is, and has always been, committed to responsible alcohol service management,” said Ovations Food Services Chief Operating Officer Todd Wickner. “It is an issue that is of paramount importance to each of our employees, from the top down. Becoming a member organization for the TEAM Coalition is another way for us to ensure we promote responsible alcohol consumption in every facility in which we operate.”

TEAM Coalition is an alliance of 18-member organizations, including professional and collegiate sports, entertainment facilities, concessionaires, stadium service providers, the beer industry, broadcasters, governmental traffic safety experts and others.    


Forum Chooses VenuWorks For Management

A Memo of Understanding has been signed between Forum Enterprises Inc. and VenuWorks, Inc. for the management of The Forum in Inglewood, CA. Gene Felling will assume duties as general manager immediately, and will also serve as VenuWorks’ western regional vice president. The five-year contract for management is expected to be signed by September 1. Financial terms are undisclosed.

“The Forum is thrilled to announce the return of its former general manager, Gene Felling. We have very fond memories of Gene’s leadership at The Forum,” said Marc T. Little, chief operating officer and general counsel, Forum Enterprises, Inc. “Gene has a history in The Forum over many years and he shares our passion for maintaining the building as the icon that it is in Los Angeles.

“The Forum is also welcoming VenuWorks into the building as the facility manager and into the Los Angeles market. VenuWorks is a results-driven leader that brings the kind of partnership The Forum will benefit from.”

Felling began his career in facility management at The Great Western Forum and from 2005-07 served in the role that he reprises today. Throughout his career, he has worked for Universal Concerts, Kroenke Sports, Clear Channel Entertainment, SMG and Broomfield Sports and Entertainment.

“I am excited to be returning to The Forum and working with Steve Peters and the VenuWorks team,” said Felling. “I am looking forward to hosting many great events from all of my friends at AEG Live, Live Nation, Nederlander Concerts, Feld Entertainment and many others. The Forum is a great arena with many more years of great entertainment.”

Besides booking the arena, VenuWorks will be responsible for selling sponsorships and advertising. VenuWorks will continue to work with local service providers currently doing business at The Forum including The Planning Company under the direction of Denise Williams, Ticketmaster, Aramark, L.A. Stagecall and CSC.

“We are delighted to be working with FEI in a coordinated effort to revive programming at this venerable, iconic arena,” said Peters, CFE, VenuWorks president. “The history of modern music, of popular entertainment, of sports in America, was written at The Forum. We hope to continue to add to that history for many years to come.”   


San Diego Convention Center Corporation Vice President Named CFO Of The Year

Mark Emch, CFE, vice president of finance at the San Diego Convention Center Corporation, was recently recognized for his professional achievements by being named CFO of the Year in the non-profit category by the San Diego Business Journal.

The award was presented on August 12, 2010 at San Diego’s 4th Annual CFO of the Year Awards at the Doubletree Hotel San Diego. The event recognizes San Diego’s most outstanding chief financial officers or heads of finance as nominated by their own employees or clients. Emch was nominated by Maria Chan, vice president/senior relationship manager for San Diego Commercial Banking Services at City National Bank. This is the second time Emch has been nominated for the award. He was recognized as a finalist for the same award in 2009.

“Mark is one of those innovative individuals that is always looking for ways to improve – both himself and the industry in which he is involved,” said Carol Wallace, corporation president and CEO. “One of Mark’s financial team’s latest innovations is a complete statistical report that quantifies important information for our clients. Everything from economic impact and hotel room pick-ups to media coverage is provided to meeting planners at the end of their event. Our clients love it and we are the only convention center that provides this service.”

An independent panel of judges reviewed the nominations and selected Emch based upon his exceptional work in the industry as well as his community involvement. Emch currently serves on the board of directors for ACCION San Diego, a private, non-profit organization with the mission of giving people the financial tools they need to work their way out of poverty by providing micro-loans, business training and other financial services.

Emch joined the Corporation in 1994. He provides overall administrative, planning, supervision
and direction for all finance, accounting, audit and most risk management activities of the corporation.  


Akron Civic Theatre Joins Forces With SMG

The Board of Trustees of the Community Hall Foundation (dba Akron Civic Theatre) has approved an agreement with SMG that will increase the number and quality of events at the theater, maximize revenue opportunities, and expand upon its already significant economic and cultural impact on the community.

“The Civic is an amazing place and a cultural icon in our community, but programming is what brings people downtown and drives business for the local hospitality industry,” said Ralph Palmisano, the Board’s immediate past president. “We’re already hosting more than 100 events a year and the agreement with SMG will help us to increase both the number and quality of attractions.”

SMG is involved in the management and operation of more than 220 public assembly facilities worldwide, including some 45 theaters, actively working to assist arts oriented and non-profit community groups in presenting their events in these facilities. The Akron Civic Theatre is the first theater in Ohio to join SMG.

“The Akron Civic Theatre’s seating capacity is perfect for many of today’s touring attractions and it is ideally situated in terms of artist routing,” said Wes Westley, President and CEO of SMG. “We are looking forward to helping the theater reach the next level and to play a role in the ongoing re-vitalization of downtown Akron.”’

The theater’s work with community-based arts and non-arts organizations, its partnership with the City of Akron’s Lock 3 Park, and its own programming, will remain at the foundation of the annual schedule of events. Current staff, including Executive Director Howard Parr, will remain in place. Parr will work with SMG’s extensive network to expand the theater’s schedule and enhance operations.

“The Civic is proud of its impact on our community and of the high level of programming and efficiency of operations currently provided,” said Mark Watkins, the board’s new president. “I know I speak for the theater’s loyal and dedicated staff and all of the board members when I say that we are thrilled with this affiliation and the potential it brings.”  


Tickets.com, Florida Marlins Execute Long-Term Ticketing Agreement

Tickets.com has added National League Major League Baseball team the Florida Marlins® to its client line-up with a long-term ticketing agreement anchored on ProVenue®, the industry's most advanced ticketing platform. Among other technologies, the portfolio of features and services to be delivered to the Marlins includes ProVenueMobile, Tickets@Phone and Uptix stored value ticketing.

"When reviewing our options in choosing a ticketing partner, we saw that Tickets.com was by far the best technological fit," said David Samson, Florida Marlins team president. "I know that our fans, as well as our organization, will benefit from the breakthrough technologies that Tickets.com is offering and continuing to develop."

The Florida Marlins' adoption of the web-based ProVenue platform coincides with the kick-off of the team's 2012 season in their new stadium. The 2012 season ticket-holder deposits are already being processed through the ProVenue system. The platform's flexible open architecture allows for additional features, applications, and data management programs offered by Tickets.com or other third parties to be seamlessly integrated at any time.

"We're confident that the ProVenue ticketing platform will meet all the consumer-facing and internal needs of the Florida Marlins organization," said John Walker, president and CEO, Tickets.com. "The club shares our enthusiasm for technological innovation, so it is exciting to be their technology partner as they take up residence at the Marlins Ballpark."  


Jacksonville Jaguars Select Radiant Systems As Technology Provider For EverBank Field

Radiant Systems, Inc. announced a new agreement with the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars to implement the Quest Venue Management software and hardware in the concession stands and restaurants of EverBank Field in addition to deploying the CounterPoint retail point-of-sale (POS) system for its retail operations.

“Customer satisfaction, speed of service and connecting with our ticketholders were top of mind when looking for a new technology provider,” said Bruce Swindell, executive director of information technology for the Jacksonville Jaguars. “Radiant’s innovative stadium and retail solutions enable us to provide the ultimate fan experience from the moment ticketholders first step into our stadium.”

Prior to the 2010-2011 season, the Jaguars will outfit EverBank Field with Radiant’s Quest POS software and hardware, including the wireless POS solution, within its standard and premium concessions and its three restaurants. In addition to implementing the Quest Venue Management solution, the Jaguars will also outfit Radiant P1515 and P1560 wireless terminals running CounterPoint retail POS software within its retail and souvenir operations. Using Radiant’s technology, the Jaguars will deliver faster and more convenient service and innovative payment methods, such as loaded ticket functionality. This feature gives fans the ability to pre-load dollar amounts onto their admission tickets to use for food and beverage purchases during games.

Radiant’s retail product suite will also help maximize customer satisfaction and loyalty by serving customers quickly and ensuring that popular items are always in stock through its inventory tracking capabilities. By selecting a single technology provider for all of its retail and concession operations, the team can rely on one vendor to ensure that its technology is running smoothly and efficiently at all times.

“We are proud to be able to provide the Jaguars with innovative POS technology that will help them achieve their goal of better serving customers and driving fan loyalty,” said David Griffin, vice president of the retail, sports and entertainment division at Radiant Systems. “Radiant is excited to work with the Jaguars, their partners and their fans to deliver one of the best fan experiences in sports.”  


Anheuser-Busch Partners With Orlando Magic, Amway Center

The Orlando Magic announced a renewed, multi-year relationship with Budweiser for the new Amway Center. As part of the partnership, Budweiser, a 21-year partner of the Magic, will collaborate with the team to institute the Good Sport program, receive arena signage and naming rights to the Budweiser Baseline Bar – a highly visible and entertaining space accessible to all Amway Center ticket buyers 21 years of age and older.

The Good Sport Program, a comprehensive action plan that promotes a positive atmosphere at the arena by encouraging adult fans to drink responsibly and use a designated driver, represents collaboration between Anheuser-Busch and its wholesalers, the Magic and concessionaires. The Good Sport Program will be promoted at the Amway Center through the use of stadium signage, PSAs and an in-arena designated driver sign-up booth.

Budweiser will have permanent signage throughout both the inner bowl of the inner concourse and at the Budweiser Baseline Bar – one of several premium amenities accessible to every level of ticket buyer at the Amway Center. Located on the south end of the Terrace Level and overlooking the inner bowl, the Budweiser Baseline Bar will have the look of a high-end club, including a terrazzo floor, granite bar tops and flat-screen TVs.

All ticket buyers at the Amway Center will also have access to the Club Restaurant, Nutrilite Magic Fan Experience and Orlando on Demand areas, and multiple indoor-outdoor spaces which celebrate Florida's climate.

“We are delighted to have Budweiser continue its 21-year partnership with the Orlando Magic in the new Amway Center,” Orlando Magic President Alex Martins said. “In addition to implementing the Good Sport program with Budweiser, we are eager to activate the sponsorship in exciting new ways – including the introduction of the Budweiser Baseline Bar – that will enhance the game-day experience for adults who enter the Amway Center.”

Budweiser will also have an ad position on the Magic’s official website, OrlandoMagic.com, and participate in in-arena promotions throughout the season.

“Partnering with the Orlando Magic has proven to be a great fit for Budweiser and we’re excited to extend our relationship as they enter their new home, the Amway Center,” said Mark Wright, vice president of media, sports & entertainment marketing, Anheuser-Busch. “The sponsorship provides Budweiser a unique way to interact with adult fans and enhance their experience when attending Magic games.”  


Contemporary Services Corporation Signs 3-Year Contract With Baylor University

Contemporary Services Corporation (CSC) announced its three-year contract to provide event staffing services for Baylor University. Located in Waco, Texas, the Baylor Bears are a member of the Big 12 Conference and play at the historic Floyd Casey Stadium, which has a seating capacity of 50,000 and has been the home of Baylor football since the mid 1900’s. CSC’s Dallas/Fort Worth branch office has been affiliated with Baylor University since 2009 and provides services for Baylor football under the direction of Drew Pittman, director of facilities, Diane Jee, assistant events manager and Bryce Sandvall, assistant facilities director.  


University Of Tulsa Continues 19-Year Partnership With Paciolan

Paciolan announced The University of Tulsa (TU) will continue its 19-year partnership with Paciolan by converting to Paciolan’s fully hosted ticketing system. Completely automated, the hosted system will increase TU’s ticket processing speed and streamline sales for the university’s Golden Hurricane fans – all while satisfying Payment Card Industry (PCI) system requirements. Additionally, TU will be implementing Paciolan’s Access Management and digital ticketing solutions. TU has been working with Paciolan since 1991.

“Paciolan has consistently provided us with the best technology solutions and customer service to meet our needs and those of our Golden Hurricane fans,” said Lawrence (Bubba) Cunningham, athletic director of The University of Tulsa. “Their industry-leading products, services, and dedication to college athletics make Paciolan the perfect partner for Tulsa Athletics.”

In addition to satisfying PCI system requirements, Paciolan’s hosted system will help TU protect its data with automatic backups and built-in security. The hosted environment also allows the ticket office to reduce hardware and infrastructure costs.

“Paciolan’s Access Management and digital ticketing system allows us to conform to industry standards and provide better customer service for our Hurricane fans,” said Shawn Pfannenstiel, director of athletic business and ticket operations for The University of Tulsa. “We are excited about offering our fans several innovative digital ticketing services.”  


Montana Fair Rallies With Community Support

In spite of a Father’s Day tornado that decimated the MetraPark Arena, MontanaFair opened with a flourish on Friday, August 13. Traditionally a Sneak-A-Peek night, the carnival promotion and Jason Aldean in concert with The McClymonts was a rousing success.

Aldean in concert, along with The Scorpions on August 14 and Hinder with Finger Eleven on August 15, were originally intended to play the arena but following the tornado were re-scheduled in the Grandstand which seats 6,200. Supercross and three PRCA Rodeo performances were already slated to perform outdoors.

With just 23 days following the tornado, Youth Art and 4H non-livestock exhibits were also relocated elsewhere on the grounds. Youth Art was housed on the food midway directly adjacent to Fine Art and Hobby Hall in a large white tent. Poultry and Rabbits were relocated from the Expo Center to the older Heritage Building in order to accommodate 4H non-livestock exhibits. Following the three day Poultry and Rabbit Show, winners were on exhibit in the Expo Center with large livestock in air-conditioned comfort.

Fair attendance was 232,657 guests; well on par with last year’s attendance of 233,015 visitors. The Thomas carnival set several new records for sales per day and for the week, the fair’s share of carnival sales was up by about $7,000. Neither gate admission nor carnival prices have been raised since 2008.

MontanaFair and its contractors employ over 520 full and part time workers for the nine days of the event. An equal or greater number of volunteers donate countless hours. About 30% of fair attendees are visiting from outside of Yellowstone County. Combined with spending by visiting vendors, exhibitors, and carnival staff, it is estimated that economic impact of $20,691,350.00 based on a 2.45 day stay*.  


Celayix To Host Event Security Webinar

Attend the free Webinar, “Going Behind the Scenes - Scheduling, Tracking and Collaborating with Your Event Workforce,”, to gain a better understanding on how event security and services organizations are optimizing coverage to reduce labor costs and improve their overall level of customer service. Celayix Software, a member of multiple event and security related associations such as IAAM, ASIS and CALSAGA, will be interviewing the CEO of one of their longest-standing event security customers: 5 Star Event Services. They will discuss various relevant issues based on their thorough understanding of this industry.

“Going Behind the Scenes - Scheduling, Tracking and Collaborating with Your Event Workforce” will be held on Wednesday, September 8 at 11 a.m. PST, 1 p.m. CST, and 2 p.m. EST. Among other things, this presentation will serve as a teaser for all those attending the upcoming International Crowd Management Conference which is set to take place November 7-10 in Kansas City, Missouri. The presentation will also preface Celayix’s significant involvement in the upcoming International ASIS conference in Dallas, Texas from October 12-15.

For more webinar information and to register visit: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/759497354  


SMG To Manage Rockford, IL MetroCentre, Davis Park And The AHL’s Rockford IceHogs

The board of the Rockford Area Venues and Entertainment Authority (RAVE) finalized and approved a five-year management agreement with SMG. SMG will provide full management services for the Rockford MetroCentre, an 8,000 seat arena that recently underwent a $23 million renovation, the Rockford IceHogs, the American Hockey League affiliate of the Stanley Cup Champion Chicago Blackhawks, and Davis Park, a downtown park, amphitheatre and festival grounds.

SMG will also provide consulting services to the beautifully renovated, 2,309-seat Coronado Performing Arts Center, one of the nation’s few remaining atmospheric theatres. Additionally, SMG will immediately begin discussions with Rockford’s On the Waterfront organization to determine the best strategy for cooperation and collaboration for future festivals.

“We are delighted to be a partner of the forward thinking leadership of the Rockford area. This provides a unique opportunity for SMG to manage not just an arena, but its major tenant as well. As we have done in many other cities, we expect to be a major part of the renaissance of downtown Rockford and the entire metropolitan area,” said Wes Westley, President and CEO of SMG.

During the Board meeting, RAVE also voted to approve Gordon Kaye as executive director/general manager to oversee the MetroCentre, the IceHogs and Davis Park. Kaye is in his sixth year as general manager of the Reading (PA) Royals Professional Hockey Club and also serves as the team’s governor. He was recommended by SMG to manage the activities in Rockford including bookings, food and beverage operations, marketing, and advertising and sponsorship sales. Kaye, who has been with SMG for seven years, will begin his new role immediately.

“There is so much positive momentum going on in downtown Rockford, and I look forward to helping capitalize and build that energy in the community,” said Kaye. “That momentum combined with the exceptional people at the MetroCentre and great people in Rockford will lead to bigger and better things ahead.”

“We are thrilled to have a company like SMG and a leader like Gordon Kaye with experience and enthusiasm coming to our market,” said Mike Dunn, RAVE Board Chairman. “We look forward to his creative ideas and strong leadership to lead the organization into the future.”  


Sport Court’s New SportBase™ Replaces Concrete, Improves Safety And The Environment

Sport Court® announced it will begin introducing an innovative new product called SportBase™, a direct replacement for concrete for its popular Sport Court outdoor game courts. The new product dramatically improves shock absorption and safety while being environmentally responsible.

“With this product we are taking indoor gym performance to outdoor courts while at the same time providing a patent pending design that will freely channel water through the system for absorption back into the ground,” said Ron Cerny, president and CEO of Connor Sport Court International, parent company of Sport Court.

“SportBase may well prove to be a revolutionary product in a world of growing environmental consciousness,” Cerny said

The new SportBase product, which has been under engineering development by Sport Court for years, provides double or triple the shock absorption of any other outdoor court on the market when paired with Sport Court surfaces, said Cerny.

“It provides more safety than ever before, since its cushion-effect reduces the likelihood of injuries from falls, It also provides a consistent ball-bounce and meets international performance standards,” he added.  


Paciolan, University Of Hawai’i Continue Agreement

Paciolan announced that The University of Hawai‘i will continue to leverage the company’s ticketing, marketing and fundraising software through the extension of a multi-year partnership. With this agreement, Hawai‘i will continue to sell tickets to all Hawai‘i Athletics events and local venues, including the Sheraton Hawai‘i Bowl, through their website www.etickethawaii.com.

“We are pleased to continue our long-standing relationship with Paciolan,” said Jim Donovan, director of athletics, the University of Hawai‘i. “I started working with Jane Kleinberger (Paciolan founder) more than 23 years ago and I respect her leadership and the fact she truly listens to her customers. We’ve enjoyed this partnership and appreciate the product and outstanding customer service they provide our fans. Their innovative digital tools are extremely popular with our customers and have raised their level of satisfaction while allowing us to better serve them.”

The University of Hawai‘i has been an industry leader in the age of digital ticketing since its inception and has installed Access Management at all major venues on campus. Hawai‘i Athletics offers season ticket holders a wide variety of digital ticketing services, including the ability to resell or transfer tickets online if the ticket holder is unable to attend a game. Fans are also able to select the convenience of print-at-home delivery for tickets purchased by phone or online. These value-added digital services provide Hawai‘i fans with unprecedented flexibility to buy, receive, sell or transfer their tickets electronically.

"The athletics department at The University of Hawai‘i continues to demonstrate excellence in the areas of digital ticketing and online ticket sales,” said Dave Butler, chief executive officer of Paciolan. “We are tremendously proud to continue our strong partnership with Jim Donovan and his talented team."  

 

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