Behind the Scenes is a bi-annual newsletter published by FFMA. Some of the topics discussed in Behind the Scenes include: FFMA event news and recaps, news around the state, facility news, legislative updates, employees "on-the-move", job postings, and sponsor spotlights.

Archived newsletters:
Jan 2004, Dec 2004, Feb 2005, May 2005, Nov 2005, Mar 2006, June 2006, Oct 2006
Mar 2007, June 2007, Dec 2007.

PRESIDENT’S CORNER

I have rewritten my President’s Corner several times – on all occasions, different hurricanes are bearing down on our state. I marvel at the resilience of our residents and am so proud of our venues that have served as hurricane shelters, command posts, providers of meals for weary aid workers and the like. Many of us have organized fundraising concerts, even while we are worrying about our buildings and personal homes.

I feel we can help with the recovery by putting on our concerts, Broadway Shows and sporting events which will hope to raise people’s spirits and help return us to a more normal existence.

On a personal level, I want to thank so many of you for worrying about the Mann Hall and myself after Hurricane Charley. I really feel being a member of FFMA is like having an extended family, and I am so grateful to all of you who called and e-mailed me.

On one other topic, I wish Bill Becker all the best in his retirement and congratulate Allen Johnson who will be taking over Bill’s position in Orlando. Knowing Allen as I do, I am sure he will do a brilliant job.

I look forward to seeing you all soon, and please let Cherie or myself know if FFMA can help in any way.

A special thanks to you all for a fabulous annual conference! HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

FFMA OPERATIONS
SEMINAR
DECEMBER 7, 2004
USF SUNDOME
FFMA OPERATIONS SEMINAR

Due to hurricane recovery and rescheduled events, it was determined that the FFMA Operational Seminar would be postponed until December 7th. FFMA and the Operations Seminar host venue, USF SunDome, invite everyone to plan on attending this annual seminar.

Tentative Conference Schedule :

2004 FFMA ANNUAL CONFERENCE RECAP

JUNE 13 – 15, FOUR SEASONS HOTEL, WEST PALM BEACH , FL

The 2004 Conference was a record-breaking meeting for the FFMA. The program attracted the highest attendance in the association’s history. Attendance reached 109 including members, sponsors, spouses, and non-members.

The opening reception was hosted by Lee Bell and the Raymond F. Kravis Center. All were impressed with the renovations of this beautiful facility. Educational seminars included Ticketmaster "Selling More Tickets Better,” Tom Marchetto from Brandywine Hospitality Group moderated Food and Beverage Industry Trends panel consisting of Cindy VanRensburg of Aramark, David Urso from Centerplate, Sal Ferrulo with Boston Concessions and Eva Calhoun from the Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall. Eric Staufer, creator of FFMA web site, presented the new web site, which includes all members and their facilities, a map and job search engine.

The Agents/Promoters Panel was very well attended and lively. Moderator was Bobby Rossi of the Florida Presenters. Panelists included Simma Levine with On The Road, Stephen Lindsay of The Road Company, Mollie Mills with The Booking Group, Mario Tirado of Creative Artists Agency, Gary Lashinsky with White Stallion Productions, Randy McElrath with Clear Channel, Dave Pitman with Feld Entertainment and Jon Stoll with Fantasma.

The Industry Trends panel was moderated by Donna Dowless and included Mich Sauers with Global Spectrum, Linda Deckard with Venues Today and Steve Pelham with Milliken Carpet. Generating Income and Cost Savings Initiatives was moderated by Rick Hamilton of the Ocean Center and great ideas were shared by everyone.

During the FFMA Business meeting conducted by President Mary Bensel, the board recommended an audit to be completed and a year-end report will be sent to members. The bylaws will be updated and voted on next year.

Scholarship Committee: Chair Lionel Dubay, Jon Dorman and Rick Hamilton. Rick Hamilton introduced the FFMA Annual Scholarship winner, Lori Graham from UCF. She received a $500 check. The $500 scholarship winner for IAAM/UVMC is Michael Hurt, a graduate student at St Thomas University. The $500 College Scholarship recipient was Jennifer ZiBerna from the University of Florida.

FFMA would like to thank both attendees and sponsors for their part in making the 2004 FFMA Conference a success!

FFMA SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

ANNUAL CONFERENCE SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT, LORI GRAHAM, OUTLINES BENEFITS

Being selected to receive the scholarship to attend the 2004 Florida Facility Managers Annual Meeting in Palm Beach was a wonderful opportunity for me to meet and network with members of the association and to gain insight into the hospitality industry. I was able to learn first hand from Hospitality leaders and receive useful information and knowledge. I feel it is important for students to attend conferences and seminars, not only for educational opportunities, but to also keep informed of the latest developments in the hospitality industry. By awarding these scholarships, you are encouraging young people to discover the rewarding careers available in Hospitality Management, while helping students get educational tools and guidance to the industry. I feel attending this meeting was a valuable asset in my career development. - Lori Graham

OPERATIONS SEMINAR SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED

The FFMA Scholarship Committee extended scholarships to two students for the upcoming FFMA Operations Seminar in Tampa. Michael Hurt, from Thomas College in Miami, and Lori Graham, Hospitality Management major at University of Central Florida, applied and was selected by the scholarship committee and will be awarded a scholarship to cover the registration fee for the annual seminar.

This scholarship program was created to provide students who are interested in the public assembly facility management profession an opportunity to learn more about the career and the industry, as well as a chance to network with practitioners in the field to learn of internships and entry-level positions. This program is also designed to nurture and grow future leaders in our industry.

Scholarship applications are available at www.floridafacilities.com and may also be obtained from anyone on the Scholarship Committee and/or by contacting Executive Director Cherie Worley.

ON THE MOVE…

LETTER FROM BILL BECKER TO HIS FRIENDS AT FFMA AS HE LEAVES THE ORLANDO CENTROPLEX

The time has come. My farewell tour that started last May, when I retired, will come to end this Friday. It will mark 27 years 11 months here at the City and my last day as Director of Centroplex. Monday our colleague Allen Johnson will assume the reins here in Orlando . Due not need to wish Allen luck because of his abilities and the very capable and professional staff, that has made me look good for years, he will do just fine. So Madam President I hereby resign my position on the EC and look forward to staying involved in FFMA and at such time you all establish a retired status and appropriate dues structure I am in. Looking back over the years with FFMA includes many fond memories from little Jeff Spencer cleaning my clock in a card game in which matches were used as chips, Lionel's Hot Tub in the Sky, the croquet match, the putting contests the poker games with real chips that Ava will always cherish. It has been great and I want to again thank you all for the new golf clubs.

"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." Mark Twain

With that in mind Ava and I are sailing off on a new adventure with optimism, excitement and a bit of apprehension. But with cherished memories of everyone with FFMA. We will see you all at our next port of call. Ava and Bill

As director, Bill was responsible for the administration and operational management of the public assembly facilities owned by the City of Orlando -- Florida Citrus Bowl, Tinker Field, Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre, Expo Centre, and TD Waterhouse Centre (Orlando Arena).

ALLEN JOHNSON NAMED GENERAL MANAGER FOR THE ORLANDO CENTROPLEX

ORLANDO , FL – Mayor Buddy Dyer Monday announced that he has named Allen Johnson the new City of Orlando Centroplex director. Johnson, who has been the executive director of The Lakeland Center in Lakeland , FL , since 1988, began on September 27, 2004 . “After an extensive, nationwide search, I believe Allen is the best choice to take over management of the Centroplex,” said Mayor Dyer. “He provides facilities management, events management and marketing experience, as well as a professional demeanor – all qualities we are looking for in this position.”

In his sixteen and a half years at The Lakeland Center and more than twenty years in the industry, Johnson has lead many successful projects, including the expansion and renovation of The Lakeland Center, which was completed in 1996. Johnson is proud to be joining the City of Orlando and the Centroplex team. “I look forward to the opportunity to continue to build upon the past success of the venues and take the Centroplex to the next level,” he said.

THE FLORIDA THEATRE PRESENTS JENNIFER LEE MORGAN

Welcome to the newest member of our Florida Theatre family. Jennifer began in September as House Manager. She graduated from the University of North Florida with a B.S. in Communications and has over six years of restaurant and hospitality experience. Look for Jennifer at our next event. She is eager to coordinate awesome events and make your Florida Theatre experience even more exciting.

GLOBAL SPECTRUM NAMES PATRICK McGREW GENERAL MANAGER OF UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI CONVOCATION CENTER

CORAL GABLES, FL, May 6, 2004 – Global Spectrum, the fastest growing firm in the public assembly management field and operators of the University of Miami Convocation Center , today named Patrick L. McGrew as the facility’s new general manager. McGrew, who formerly was the facility’s assistant general manager and director of operations, will now oversee all of the day-to-day operations of the 7,000-seat sports and entertainment venue on the University of Miami campus, including booking and scheduling of events, marketing and promoting the facility and its events.

“Patrick’s expertise in facility management made him a solid assistant general manager since joining Global Spectrum at the UM Convocation Center . His promotion is well earned and well deserved,” said Global Spectrum President Michel Sauers. “I know he will help maintain the high level of service that our company provides to the University of Miami and to visitors attending events at the Convocation Center .”

“During the two years that Patrick McGrew has been the Director of Facilities at the University of Miami Convocation Center, he has demonstrated superior skills in all aspects of the facility management industry. The University of Miami is pleased and confident that he will not only excel as General Manager but further contribute to the success of the Convocation Center ,” said Mel Tenen, Director of Auxiliary Services for the University of Miami .

McGrew joined Global Spectrum in 2002 after serving as assistant general manager and director of operations of the Miami Arena. He also spent one season as the event manager for the American Airlines Arena in Miami , FL (1999-2000). McGrew’s first position in facility management after graduating from Florida Atlantic University was as assistant director of stadium operations and public relations for the New York Yankees (from 1989 through 1994).

GLOBAL SPECTRUM NAMES TODD ELLZEY DIRECTOR OF FACILITIES OF UM CONVOCATION CENTER

Coral Gables, FL – Global Spectrum, operators of the University of Miami Convocation Center , named Todd Ellzey as the Director of Facilities. Ellzey will be responsible for maintaining an effective and cost-efficient venue by controlling the operating budget and coordinating all elements of facility operations, including staff management, overseeing vendor contracts and maintenance of the facility. "We are excited to bring Todd to the Convocation Center," said Global Spectrum's Patrick L. McGrew, General manager for the Convocation Center . "With his experience and knowledge he will help Global Spectrum make the Convocation Center one of the finest facilities of its size in the country." Ellzey previously held the position Director of Event Operations and Security for Pro Player Stadium. Prior to working with Pro Player, Ellzey was Manager for Stadium Operations of the Florida Marlins baseball club and Assistant General Manager for the El Paso Diabios baseball club in EL Paso , Texas .

GLOBAL SPECTRUM NAMES TIM STOYLE BOX OFFICE MANAGER OF UM CONVOCATION CENTER

Coral Gables, FL – Global Spectrum named Tim Stoyle as the University of Miami Convocation Center Box Office Manager. Stoyle will be responsible for managing the day-to-day box office operations including customer service and coordinating all box office staff. "Tim will be a valuable asset to the Convocation Center staff," said Global Spectrum's Patrick L. McGrew, general manager for the Convocation Center. "His extensive ticketing background will aid Global Spectrum in assuring visitors to the Convocation Center are provided with the highest level of customer service upon arrival to the venue." Stoyle previously worked as the Ticket Manager for the Florida Marlins and the St. Louis Cardinals at Jupiter Stadium in Jupiter, FL. He has also worked as a NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament Media Relations Intern and a Ticket Assistant for the Colorado Rookies, in Denver, Co.

Tampa, FL – The Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center announces the promotion of Judy Joseph to the position of Vice President of Programming. In September 2002, Joseph began overseeing the programming for the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center’s four theaters. Before her promotion to Vice President of Programming, Joseph acted as the Director of Programming and has worked to add more depth to programming initiatives at The Center. The Center’s concert and Latin programming has grown significantly as a result of having Joseph on staff. "Over the last two years, it's been exciting to expand our Latin programming, including preliminary work on the upcoming Arte 2005 Festival in April,” Joseph said. “I'm looking forward to bringing even more diverse programming to our already-strong lineup. Before coming to the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, Joseph acted as the Director of Programming and Production at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Under her leadership, the Broward Center ’s number and variety of programs grew substantially and net revenue increased by 200 percent.

PENSACOLA, FL - Michael Mullins has joined the SMG staff at the Pensacola Civic Center as the new Finance Director. Mullins who is originally from San Diego has lived in Northwest Florida since the mid-1970’s. He graduated from the University of West Florida in 1995 with a B.A. in Accounting. Mullins comes to the Pensacola Civic Center from the City of Milton where he was the Chief Accountant/Comptroller. In his position as Finance Director, Mullins will be responsible for all financial activity of the operation including financial management and control, accounting and financial statement preparation, internal auditing, purchasing, payroll, budgeting and other general financial duties.

Kathy Holmes who joined SMG Corporation at the Pensacola Civic Center as Sales Manager in 2003 has changed positions. She is now the Event Services Manager. In this capacity, Holmes will be responsible for a variety of functions in support of the General Manager. These functions include booking management, contract compliance, event coordination and part time staff coordination for sales operations for the Pensacola Civic Center . Prior to joining SMG Corporation, Holmes worked for Buffalo Rock Pepsi as Vending Sales Manager. Holmes has also worked as Executive Director of SpringFest, Inc. She is a native of Pensacola .

THE LATEST FROM THE FFMA LOBBYIST –
WAYNE R. MALANEY, P.A.

Because it is an election year little has transpired during the interim. No legislative proposals are in the works. The priority for FFMA during this election cycle should be to continue to work on developing, maintaining and improving the relationships you have with your current House and Senate members. In those districts where there are contested races I urge you to work on or donate to campaigns. Let the candidate you support know who you are. Obviously it may be best to support incumbents, especially those that have been friends to the FFMA. Regardless though, it is important that you work on the relationships at home.

Continue these efforts after the election. This can be especially helpful in the districts where a new legislator is elected. Set a meeting with the new member to “educate” him or her about the industry and what specifically your operation does for and means to the local economy and community.

To this end, Ron Spencer and I have discussed ways to explore the development of a report to show the economic impact the facility industry has on Florida . It is important to point out to our legislators that events like the recent VMA’s in Miami or the upcoming Super Bowl in Tampa , would not be possible if we did not have the magnificent facilities and their personnel available to host these major events, which enerate millions in tax dollars.

Finally, regardless of whether you are operating a public or private facility, meet with your local city and county council and commission members. Let them know that there are issues being worked on that benefit the facilities. More importantly, you need their voice to be heard by the legislative delegation. It is important that the delegation hear from the local elected officials about what these facilities mean to the city or county in terms of both revenue and service to the community.

NEWS AROUND THE STATE

ORLANDO EXPO CENTRE BIDS A FOND FAREWELL

After nearly 70 years as Downtown Orlando’s premier location for conventions and meeting space, the Orlando Expo Centre is bidding a fond farewell. The City of Orlando and the University of Central Florida have teamed together to revitalize the Expo Centre and transform it into the new home of UCF’s new video game program, known as the Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy. This program is to be the foundation of the growth in Electronic Arts, which will train students for jobs in the video game industry and other interactive entertainment. A venture of this magnitude would be a win-win for the City and UCF. UCF could become a very enticing draw to high-tech firms to downtown, bringing many faculty, staff and students to its business district, resulting in considerable impact to the Orlando community. As for UCF, this move would allow them to alleviate overcrowding issues on the main campus and add to their existing downtown facilities. The video game academy anticipates a move in date of its administrative offices this fall and start classes in 2005.

DR. PALLAVI PATEL PERFORMING ARTS CONSERVATORY IN TAMPA SET TO OPEN IN THE FALL

The Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center is on track for the opening of its new Dr. Pallavi Patel Performing Arts Conservatory. Scheduled to open this fall, The Conservatory will focus on the training and exploration of the performing arts for prospective arts professionals, as well as community members seeking a better understanding and appreciation of the arts. The four-story, 45,000-square-foot conservatory is being built on the north side of the current Center site. Programs already in place such as the Community Arts Ensemble, the Tampa Bay Youth Orchestra and Classical Ballet Training Program will be expanded, and the faculty will be able to establish a year-round arts curriculum for all ages and all levels, from beginner through advanced-level students. 

Saenger Theatre Redevelopment Committee unveils plans for renovation and expansion of historic Pensacola landmark

PENSACOLA , Fla.- Citing the future needs of local and national arts organizations the Saenger Theatre Redevelopment Committee Tuesday unveiled plans for the renovation and expansion of the historic Pensacola theatre. The committee cited audience experience, artist experience, operations and ease of use as their goals for the expansion. Plans call for upgrades to the seating area bringing the seat size up to current standards, replacing antiquated heating and air conditioning equipment, increasing the lobby, restrooms, and public support areas, expanding the backstage support areas, building new dressing rooms to accommodate large cast sizes and building covered loading dock areas. The cost of the renovation is estimated at $8 million with funding possibly coming from Florida Cultural Grants, local option sales tax money and/or private and corporate contributions.

Bill Greenhut, Chairman of the Saenger Theatre Redevelopment Committee said, “this is something that has been needed for a long time. A major renovation would bring the Saenger Theatre up to the standards of other performing arts facilities around the country.” The redevelopment committee is comprised of representatives of Pensacola ’s arts organizations who use the Saenger Theatre more than four times a year. Those organizations include the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra, the Pensacola Opera, the Pensacola Children’s Chorus and Kaleidoscope and Ballet Pensacola and the Friends of the Saenger.

RICK HAMILTON UNDERGOES BYPASS SURGERY

Rick Hamilton, General Manager of the Daytona Beach Convention Center , underwent quadruple bypass surgery on October 13 th, 2004 . The surgery was successful and Rick is well on his way to recovering. He plans to return to work after the 1 st of the year.

HURRICANE UPDATES

The hurricane season has been particularly devastating this year. Here are stories regarding the impact of the storms on our venues and our events.

IN THE CENTRE OF IT ALL

Despite being in the “centre” of many hurricanes, “The Show Must Go On,” isn’t always the case in entertainment and it wasn’t at all at the Orlando Centroplex. An unprecedented three hurricanes hit Central Florida, Charlie, Frances and Jeanne, which resulted in enormous destruction and affected many events where the outcome were cancellations such as, the Labor Day Classic football game, Orlando Magic Select-A-Seat, Promise Keepers and Central Florida Extreme X-Games.

The TD Waterhouse Centre suffered severe damage to the roof, skybox level, 40+ trees, electrical equipment, ceiling tiles and carpet. The Florida Citrus Bowl sustained damage very similar to TD Waterhouse Centre. TD Waterhouse Centre and Citrus Bowl Operations staff made monumental strides towards lessening the damage to their respective buildings averting costly damage. Our Business Office staff is working diligently overseeing hurricane related expenses, payroll and all other costs associated with the hurricanes. In addition, staff is working with FEMA to ensure that hurricane reimbursable expenses are properly filed.

Although the hurricanes made significant damage to many structures, it did not damper the spirits of Centroplex staff. On personal time, staff led the way by assisting in the recovery effort and aided in restoring The City Beautiful, by responding to Mayor Buddy Dyer’s request to assist the Orlando community with tree and debris removal. Additionally, the TD Waterhouse Centre donated its parking lots for relief workers and several disaster relief blood drives for a several months. Also, the Florida Department of Children and Families utilized Florida Citrus Bowl parking lots as a pre-registration site for hurricane victims for their Disaster Food Stamps program aiding over 6,000 families. The parking lots were also used as debris drop off and collection areas and continue to assist in this effort.

MIAMI’S PRO PLAYER STADIUM CHANGES SCHEDULES TO ACCOMMODATE MULTIPLE HURRICANES

In large thanks to the hard work of the employees at the Stadium and our loyal vendors who helped with tree trimming and sign removals, we were well prepared at the Stadium for both of the "evil sisters", Frances and Jeanne, and the unknown threat of their brother "Ivan". The Stadium was used as a storm shelter for full time employees who needed a "safe place" to ride out the storms. Fortunately for the Stadium, local residents, and the City of Miami , the damaging winds and rains of the storms were located far enough to the North so that we experienced no physical damages. The Stadium along with the Dolphins and in conjunction with several sponsors including Publix and DHL, provided relief efforts in the form of ice, collected food items and clothes that were shipped to the Port Charlotte/Tampa area that was ravaged by "Charley".

The Stadium, in concern for the guests’ safety, took action prior to the hurricanes by coordinating with the Marlins to play two of its home games in Chicago 's Cellular Field, home of the White Sox. As it turns out the Marlins enjoyed their "home away from home," and won those two games from the Expos to continue on their playoff wildcard chase. Several other Marlin games were cancelled at the Stadium and were made up as part of doubleheader dates later on at Pro Player Stadium. Fortunately, the Dolphins were able to coordinate with the NFL and Titans, and move their regular scheduled season opener game from Sunday at 1:00 , to Saturday at 1:00 in order to get the game in before " Frances " came in to town. The second Dolphins game against the Steelers was up against "Jeanne," and also had a Sunday scheduled time of 1:00p.m. The game was put into a holding pattern until the league, Dolphins, and Stadium Management felt that it was safe enough for guests, players and employees to "kickoff" the game. That game was also moved from a start time of 1:00 on Sunday until 8:30 p.m. on Sunday. Although the game was played, the conditions were still far from ideal, with torrential wind and rains from a fading "Jeanne" making an appearance for much of the first half. We here at Pro Payer Stadium are extremely grateful for having been fortunate enough to survive three major hurricanes without any injuries or physical damage to the building.

TURNER CENTER ATTEMPTS TO PROVIDE A SAFE SHELTER TO DESOTO COUNTY RESIDENTS

Eric Balmer, Facility Director for the Turner Center, would like to thank all of the FFMA members who have e-mailed and called after hearing that Hurricane Charley impacted the center. “The concern that members have shown and the help that has been offered is greatly appreciated and speaks volumes about what a family FFMA really is,” says Eric. The Turner Center was the main Desoto County Hurricane shelter and had about 1,400 people that were inside at the time of the hurricane. We started experiencing heavy winds from Hurricane Charley at around 5:30 p.m. By 6:00 , the winds had gotten so heavy that two pieces of our main roof were peeling off. At this point venue staff started evacuating everyone from the upper level and moved them down to the main arena floor. Within the next fifteen minutes, about ½ of the building’s 22,000 sq. ft. roof and the 125 ft. wide by 52 ft. high east wall had collapsed down to the floor. All 1,400 people moved into four restrooms, two concession stands, and one dressing room. The guests stayed in these areas for the next forty-five minutes (although it seemed like 45 days) until the winds died down and then the management team was able to move them across the street to the local high school. Despite conflicting reports, there were no fatalities and no serious injuries suffered. Eric says, “my staff and I did what we could but the true heroes were law enforcement and fire and rescue personnel. These men and women are often overlooked and greatly underappreciated under many circumstances. I can definitely tell you that there are about 1,400 people who no longer have this philosophy.”

At this point, the status of the Center remains highly in question. Building constructors indicate that the entire thing must be torn down and rebuilt. This is obviously not good news but things could have been a lot worse. As a county owned building, the Turner Center is now focusing all of its efforts on relief and mass care. The town got hit pretty hard but has not been broken. The relief efforts have been going around the clock and this county is in the process of recovery.

The Barbara Mann Hall was doing renovations when the hurricanes hit our state with a vengeance. We were in the process of installing new lighting and sound systems , increased seating, new carpet and paint etc. The hurricanes definitely put this project behind schedule due to the closing of the Edison College Campus several times. The management staff chose to delay the announcement of our Variety season and our onsale of single tickets by a month as they did not feel it was sensitive to the community's needs as many thousands of people were without power or water or rooftops. Patrons are eager to get back to "normal Life" and the venue is hopeful that its shows will entertain people badly in need of some joy in their lives. The area is rallying from the damage done during the storms. The Mann Hall itself only sustained some minor damage, which was repaired quickly. Last summer the Barbara Mann Hall received a new "skin" on the outside of the building and without this improvement the building would have sustained significantly more damage. The Barbara Mann Hall is very grateful for their timing. Several local theaters in Ft. Myers that were presenting shows during this period saw a significant drop in their box office over other years.

The Tampa Bay Convention Center has been so lucky to date. The last hurricane (Jeanne) removed some fairly large sections of roofing materials. The center is in the process of doing some temporary patches until more permanent repairs can be made. Exhibits have been relocated as needed to keep things dry and functional. The venue is open for business with a pretty heavy schedule. Most of the events that have been impacted by the hurricanes have been rescheduled on future dates and times. Unfortunately two of four days of the Home Show were lost during Frances . Robert Rose feels fortunate to report that, “overall, we did very well with minimal damage to the facility and property.”

The USF SunDome opens (each time they are needed) as a special needs shelter. The dome hosts folks from the community who require special attention. This includes oxygen, dialysis, etc. During Hurricane Ivan the SunDome had almost 500 guests staying for three days. The venue’s departments provide round-the-clock staffing for the building. “Special Needs Shelter” is a role they take on willingly; but this is likely the only ituation in which the venue is happy to see the crowd exit.

Logan, UT – July 27, 2004 – Barco is pleased to announce that it has been chosen to install a new indoor LED large display system in the American Airlines Arena, home of the Miami Heat. Totaling over $2 million, this project will be completed by mid October 2004. This selection by one of the nation’s premier sporting and entertainment facilities further confirms Barco’s expanding presence in the professional sports market.

The AmericanAirlines Arena first opened to the Miami Heat in January 2000. The start of the 2004-2005 season will bring many changes to the facility including the expansion nd upgrade of LED displays to enhance the fans’ experience. With the addition of almost 2,400 square feet of LEDs, the Arena will provide more excitement and more advertising opportunities for sponsors. The new Barco full-color LED display solution will bring three significant additions to the current displays: two rings on the center-hung video/scoring display, four corner boards, and a 360 ° fascia ring.

The production group at AmericanAirlines Arena plans to integrate all elements of the new and existing LED displays into creative, spectacular messages to capture the ttention of the fans and increase their level of participation in the event. Whether it is a Heat home game, concert, or private meeting, participants will be treated to an exhilarating visual display. “We are very excited about the installation of our new Barco LED System and the relationship this project establishes between our organizations”, stated Alexander M. Diaz, Vice President, Facilities and General Manager. “The Heat Group prides itself in being industry leaders in creativity and sports related technology use. The features and specifications of the Barco LED system give us the best opportunity to stay ahead of our peers and continue pushing ourselves into the future. Barco was clearly the best choice.”

MILESTONES

KRAVIS CENTER RAISES CURTAIN ON NEW AND EXPANDED COHEN PAVILION

One of the most recognizable landmarks in West Palm Beach , the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, assumed an even stronger presence in the downtown landscape with a stately new building that addresses the changing needs of a growing community. On October 29, 2003 , the Kravis Center unveiled the new Cohen Pavilion with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony. The new building is part of an overall $31 million expansion project at the Kravis Center . Other improvements included a new lobby for the Marshall E. Rinker, Sr. Playhouse and additional underground parking.

Designed by the Kravis Center’s original architectural firm, Zeidler Partnership of West Palm Beach, and constructed by The Weitz Co., the grand, 156,000-square-foot, four-story Cohen Pavilion opens new doors for the artistic community and the general public by providing much-needed rehearsal space, practice rooms, classrooms, lecture halls, a dance studio and recording studio, among other amenities.

The 5,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art Helen K. Persson Rehearsal Hall is just one of the many well-equipped rooms in The Picower Foundation Arts Education Center, which takes up the entire second floor of the Cohen Pavilion. In addition to advancing the Kravis Center’s own extensive educational and outreach programs, including ArtShops for adults and the S*T*A*R (Students and Teachers Arts Resource) Series and Kravis-on-the-Road for school children, The Picower Center will provides opportunities for other groups to meet, practice and rehearse for upcoming productions.

“This building, with its facilities, is wonderful,” said James P. Mitchell, Senior Director of Building and Production Services at the Kravis Center, who oversaw the design and construction of the Cohen Pavilion. “It’s really generating a lot of positive community feeling.” With its marble, granite and glass facade, the first floor of the copper-topped Cohen Pavilion houses the elegant Roberta and Stephen R. Weiner Banquet Center (available for business meetings, charity fund-raisers, seminars, wedding receptions and other social events). In addition to a magnificent lobby, which was dedicated by a gift from the J. Ira and Nicki Harris Foundation and provides ample room for pre-function activities, the Weiner Center also contains the multifunctional Herbert and Elaine Gimelstob Ballroom. Adorned with burgundy and black maple wainscot, the magnificent Ballroom provides dinner seating for more than 700 guests, a dance floor and specially installed audio and lighting accoutrements to accommodate entertainment or business needs.

“Very simply it makes the Kravis Center a true community Center,” said George J. Michel, Jr., Vice- Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chairman of the Building and Grounds Committee. “Obviously with the educational facilities, the rehearsal hall, the audio studios, plus the dining and special events that can be handled there, the Cohen Pavilion makes the Kravis Center more than just a theatre.”

“This is a totally unique facility in terms of being a complementary amenity to a erforming arts center,” Nelson said. “It’s much more than a banquet facility. It’s really technically equipped to handle performances and everything from banquets to lecture resentations to fashion shows. I also don’t know of any other performing arts center that has such an extensive educational component.”

Funding for the new and expanded Cohen Pavilion has come from the Kravis Center ’s Encore Campaign. Generous Kravis Center donors have committed nearly $25 million to the project to date and the pledging continues. “With this expansion, the Kravis Center has positioned itself to best serve the growing population in Palm Beach County for many years to come,” said Chief Executive Officer Judith A. Mitchell. “It’s a major milestone in our 13 years of being a world-class performing arts center.”

KRAVIS CENTER UNVEILS NEW FOUNDERS’ ROOM

The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts unveiled its beautiful new Carl and uth Shapiro Founders’ Room during a dessert reception February 11. Kravis Center Founder Members who attended that evening’s performance by Don Rickles and Tony Danza got their first glimpse of the elegant new Founders’ Room, exquisitely designed by Tui Pranich & Associates. The opening of the Founders’ Room was chaired by Ellen Jaffe.

The new Carl and Ruth Shapiro Founders’ Room, the final phase of recent renovations and construction at the Kravis Center, was privately funded by Mr. and Mrs. Carl J. Shapiro as a gift to the Kravis Center. The Shapiros held a private dinner party in the new room prior to a performance by Tony Danza and Don Rickles and were on hand to reet guests during the Grand Opening dessert reception at intermission attended by Founder Members and their guests. The reception was generously sponsored by PMorgan Private Bank. The Shapiros co-sponsored the evening’s performance with Mr. and Mrs. Robert M. Jaffe.

The Kravis Center ’s Carl and Ruth Shapiro Founders’ Room is exclusively for the use of Founder Members. Beginning March 1, Founder membership will increase from $75,000 to $100,000 and can be fulfilled with a multiyear commitment. The Kravis Center currently has more than 450 Founder Members.

SMG MANAGED FACILITIES IN PENSACOLA GET TOP HONORS FROM TWO NATIONAL PUBLICATIONS

PENSACOLA , Fla. - The Pensacola Civic Center and Saenger Theatre are performing at the top of the entertainment charts. The Saenger Theatre has been hosen as a 2004 Prime Site Award winner by Facilities Magazine, an entertainment industry magazine for booking agents, promoters and talent buyers. Prime Site Awards are based on opinions of those in the industry. The theatre will be featured in a special section of the September/October issue. “We’re overwhelmed by this honor,” said Doug Lee, General Manager of the Saenger Theatre. “Being chosen for this award means we have the attention of those looking to book shows.”

The mid-year charts from Billboard Magazine are in and the Pensacola Civic Center is ranked #9 in the list of Top Ten Venues worldwide with capacities of 5,001 to 10,000. The placement is based on numbers sent into Billboard Boxscore from November 19, 2003 to May 18, 2004 . During that period, the Civic Center grossed almost $3 million ollars in ticket sales. The Top Ten list includes Auditorio Nacional in Mexico City , Universal Amphitheatre in Universal City , California and The Theatre at Madison Square Garden in New York . “I’m very proud of our ranking in the Top Ten charts,” said Cyndee Pennington, General Manager of the Civic Center . “We work very hard to bring quality shows to this area; shows that people want to see. We pledge to continue that hard work.”

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT

Florida Facility Managers Association would like to take this opportunity to recognize StageRight Corporation for their outstanding support and involvement. Since their incorporation in 1984, StageRight has become synonymous with innovation and customer satisfaction. From major event staging to seating risers, ADA equipment, and accessories their products are designed with two goals in mind: to make your performers and events look and sound better: and to help you save labor costs on changeovers and setups.

History:

StageRight Corporation, a division of the Rogers Group of Companies, got its start in the early 1980’s. By recognizing a need for high quality staging products and then applying an expertise in metal design and fabrication gained through years of manufacturing and marketing high quality practice equipment to the sports marketplace, we created a market niche for out products.

Philosophy:

StageRight Corporation specializes in the design, manufacture, and marketing of high quality multi-level riser and multipurpose staging. Our products are used in a wide variety of performance and assembly environments including auditoriums, field houses, concert halls, convention centers, hotels, and churches. We believe in engineering and building products that are high quality, easy to use and built to withstand years of heavy use in the toughest professional performance environments.

Summary:

A relatively small company like ours needs an “edge” to survive and prosper. Our edge has been and always will be our ability to understand the needs of the people who use our products, and then design innovative products for them that work better and last longer. Combining our advanced products with our modern, efficient production facilities assure you that our products deliver excellent value for your investment. After reviewing our offering we trust you will concur. We look forward to adding your name to our growing list of satisfied clients.

For the past twenty years StageRight Corp has been providing high-quality cost-effective equipment to Stadiums, Arenas, Auditoriums, and Convention Centers around the world. Over that time, our record of successes in the indoor public facility world has been nearly perfect. In fact, twenty-seven out of twenty-nine current NBA Arenas, and twenty-seven out of thirty current NHL Arenas have StageRight equipment in their facilities.

StageRight’s commitment to FFMA and the public assembly facility management industry is unwavering and we are continuing to refine and expand on our capabilities in order to serve you better. Our purpose is to provide every facility we are privileged to work with the opportunity to reduce turn around times, labor time, and their on going maintenance and equipment costs.

In that line of thinking, StageRight has refined or improved upon many of our successful products in the past year. We have introduced a new design of fold and roll riser, the lpha-Roll, that has become popular for it’s ability to reduce the overall number of staging required to complete different set ups. As well, we have released a new design of our popular seating riser that will allow for quicker set ups and more stable, consistent operation for years. This riser will have the opportunity to attach seats to it, making it even more attractive to those facilities struggling with their older, labor laden seating risers.

In addition to the two products listed above, StageRight also offers the following products which might be of benefit to outdoor stadiums: ADA Lifts and Ramps, Performance Staging, Event Level Access Stairs, End Court or Sideline Seating Risers, Camera Platforms, Meeting Room Risers, Crowd Control Barricades, and Bike Rack arricades.

Another successful FFMA Conference has passed and we were all blessed with great meetings, host facilities, weather (no rain for golf), and or course, the hotel. We hope everyone enjoyed their time in West Palm Beach as much as we did. Cherie has taken great care of us as always and we can look forward to next year with much anticipation.

StageRight is proud to be involved with the FFMA and its members. To that end, we would like to thank those of you who have worked with us this year and in the past and extend an invitation to call us if there are any products we can provide to make your facility more efficient or allow you to sell more seats.We delivered our first ADA lift to the University of Miami Convocation Center the day after the conference wrapped up and we are happy to say that it was very well received. We believe it has the best features and capabilities of any portable access lift on the market and would welcome the opportunity to provide information to you regarding our PAL. (Portable Access Lift)

StageRight is still available for staging, ramps, crowd control barricades, meeting room risers and seating risers should you have a need to expand your facilities capabilities and the addition of the PAL gives us another opportunity to work with the FFMA members that have allowed to be their equipment providers.

“We have been very pleased with StageRight’s Portable Access Lift. It does all that we need it to do; it’s very multifunctional and can be used for a variety of different events.”

-Patrick McGrew
Director of Facilities
University of Miami

Since our incorporation in 1984, StageRight has become synonymous with innovation and customer satisfaction; that’s why it is not surprising that StageRight unveiled yet another new product this past spring. The latest addition to the StageRight line-up is the Portable Access Lift (PAL), an electronic lift that takes disabled persons on and off stages from 8” to 50” in height. To ensure compliance with the American Disabilities Act (ADA), the lift can be operated in two different modes: one mode in which the cabin can only be operated by either of the two modular control units (one on the stage and one on the floor), and the other mode in which the cabin can be additionally operated from the control unit within. Three distinct features separate StageRight’s Portable Access Lift from the competition:

• The PAL’s sleek design allows it to be rolled through a 36” doorway without disassembly/reassembly required.
• Three-sided entry into the cabin allows for a variety of setup configurations to maintain versatility. The lift can be placed so that the occupant can enter either parallel or perpendicular to the stage.
• No tools are needed—period. The PAL comes completely assembled, so all you have to do is take it out of the box, roll it to where you want it, plug it in, and you’re all set. The sturdy casters make it so that only one person is needed to move the lift, resulting in a truly portable, access lift.

If you are interested in learning more about the Portable Access Lift by StageRight, please feel free to contact: Tom Doyen, Regional Sales Manager

Phone: (770) 932-5840
Toll free: (800) 438-4499 ext. 820
Cell: (404) 307-4549
Email: tdoyen@stageright.com

Florida Facility Managers Association salutes StageRight for their continued support and involvement.

FFMA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE UPDATES

FFMA GETS A NEW ADDRESS

Effectively immediately, the new address for FFMA is:

4431 SW 101st Drive
Gainesville, Florida 32608.

The phone, fax and email will remain the same. Members are reminded to notify their finance departments, billings, etc., of this new address.

FFMA WEBSITE UPDATE

Please remember that the FFMA website (http://www.floridafacilities.com) has an online bulletin board system for job postings, people seeking employment, and for facilities wanting and selling equipment. The bulletin board can be found under the "Classifieds" link on the left side of the FFMA website. User registration for the bulletin board is suggested, but it is NOT required. For information on how to register, please view the "Welcome" message located in any of the discussion forums. This bulletin board system has the potential for being one of the most valuable tools of the website, and it is currently being under-utilized.

FFMA WELCOMES THE FOLLOWING NEW MEMBERS…

Timothy Schmand, Executive Director
Bayfront Park Management Trust
301 N. Biscayne Blvd
Miami , Fl 33132
305-358-7550, fax 305-358-1211
tschmand@ci.miami.fl.us

Jeff Hartzog, Director of Operations
Ruth Eckerd Hall
1111 McMillian Booth Road
Clearwater , Fl 33759
727-712-2710, fax 727-712-5976
tdhartzog@rutheckerdhall.net

Richard Walker, CFO
Ruth Eckerd Hall
1111 McMilliam Booth Road
Clearwater , Fl 33759
727-712-2762, fax 727-724-5976
rwalker@rutheckerdhall.net

FFMA’S EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

President: Mary Bensel, General Manager, Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall
VP: Lionel Dubay (also a Past President), Director, Stephen C. O'Connell Center
Secretary/Treasurer: Terry Genovese, Director, UCF Arena (Orlando)
Member At Large: Rick Hamilton, Director, Ocean Center (Daytona Beach)
Past Presidents: Mike LaPan, President, Sun Dome, Inc. (Tampa)
Roger Englert, Deputy Director, Tallahassee-Leon County Civic Center
Bill Becker
Allen Johnson, Director, Orlando Centroplex
Ron Spencer, Director, Tallahassee-Leon County Civic Center