Behind the Scenes is a bi-annual newsletter published by FFMA. Some of the topics discussed in Behind the Scenes include: News from Florida facilities, legislative updates, FFMA committee 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

It is with great pleasure that we are holding our fourth consecutive conference at the fabulous Four Seasons Hotel in Palm Beach . This has been a very busy and challenging year for the FFMA executive committee and its members. No President could have asked for a more supportive team than I have with every member committing so much of their time and expertise to the FFMA.

The conference this year will be highlighted by a number of informative and interactive sessions, including panels on New Marketing Trends, Developing Your Facility and It’s Surrounding Area, and two very topical sessions on Hurricane Preparedness and our experiences last year with a record four hurricanes hitting our state.

We have a marvelous Agents & Promoters panel which will be moderated by Bob Rossi, President of the Florida Presenters; that will include Mario Tirado and Risha Rogers of CAA, John Valentino of Fantasma, Maria Mantais of Monterey Artists, Randy McElrath of Clear Channel, Roland Skahill of William Morris and Scott Morris of ICM among others.

Our opening reception this year will be held at the beautiful Palm Beach Convention Center . A special treat again this year for members who don’t golf is hotel credit for use in the spa etc! This year we will feature one golf tournament and a meeting of the Florida Presenters on Monday.

We have faced a number of economic, legislative, and force-of-nature challenges, but by working together, we have shown our ability to overcome any problem. I look forward to seeing you all in June!

Mary Bensel
President, FFMA

FFMA SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

The FFMA Scholarship Committee announces the availability of four 2005 scholarships. We hope you'll share this information with your student  interns and employees; and encourage them to go to the FFMA Web site at www.floridafacilities.com to find out more information about the scholarships and for the application forms. The Committee will be awarding one scholarship each for the following:

$500 – FFMA Annual Meeting plus waived registration fee - The FFMA Scholarship Committee was pleased to announce that there was an excellent student response from across the state for the FFMA Annual Meeting. Although all applicants were qualified, the committee selected David Lucier from the University of Florida as the scholarship recipient. David is currently in a dual master’s degree program (Sport Management and Business Management). The committee would like to thank the members of FFMA for sharing the scholarship information with their student interns and employees. Application deadline April 15 th. The FFMA Annual Meeting will be held in West Palm Beach , FL , June 19-21, 2005 .

$500 – College Scholarship - Application deadline June 1 st

$500 – IAAM/UVMC Annual Conference and Trade Show - Application deadline June 1 st. The conference will be held in Washington , DC , July 15-19, 2005 . IAAM offers a student volunteer program to help offset student registration fees to their conference. Students may contact Brenda Pennington at the IAAM WHQ (brenda.pennington@iaam.org) for more information about this program. It is a great opportunity for student employees and/or interns who are interested in the public assembly facility management industry.

$75 – FFMA Operations Seminar plus waived registration fee - Application deadline twenty (20) days prior to the Seminar. (DTB)

All scholarship applications should be submitted to:

Cherie Worley, Executive Director
Florida Facility Managers Association
4431 SW 101st Drive
Gainesville, Florida 32608
cworley@atlantic.net

For additional information feel free to contact any member of the Scholarship Committee:

Lionel Dubay, Chair @ ldubay@ufl.edu
Rick Hamilton @ rhamilton@oceancenter.com
Jon Dorman @ jdorman@ci.orlando.fl.us

SPECIAL FEATURE

Kevin McGuire of Kevin McGuire Associates offered a presentation at the FFMA Operations Seminar in December. Since legal liability is becoming a significant issue for the evacuation of people with disabilities, Kevin has offered the following information about a landmark case that was settled this week in Washington , DC . It is expected that this case may have a significant impact on our industry. A recap of this decision and Kevin’s solution for facilities follow.  

Recap:

Attorneys from Hogan & Hartson L.L.P. and the Washington Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights & Urban Affairs announced today the settlement of a high-profile, ground-breaking lawsuit against Marshalls that will require the major discount retailer to provide accessible evacuation routes for shoppers with disabilities in all of its stores nationwide. This landmark settlement ensures that Marshalls will adopt emergency evacuation procedures that take into consideration the needs of shoppers with disabilities in each of its more than 700 stores in 42 states and Puerto Rico . As a result, Marshalls becomes the first national retailer in the country to agree to address the critical emergency evacuation needs of persons with disabilities.

The settlement agreement resolves a lawsuit filed by Katie Savage, a Washington , D.C. resident who has a mobility impairment and who uses a wheelchair, and the Disability Rights Council of Greater Washington (DRC). On September 3, 2002 , Ms. Savage became trapped during an emergency evacuation of a Marshalls store and the mall in which it was located. After Marshalls required her to exit into an area of the mall that is below ground level, Ms. Savage was trapped and unable to evacuate because the elevators were shut down and all the exits had stairs. Ms. Savage, who did not receive any assistance or guidance from the store or mall personnel, resolved to use this incident as a vehicle to make certain that fellow citizens with disabilities would not be similarly victimized in emergency evacuation situations. Ms. Savage joined the DRC in filing a lawsuit against Marshalls that alleged violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Maryland law in Marshalls ’ corporate-wide evacuation policies.

The settlement was preceded by a significant decision issued in this case on December 28, 2004 by Judge John W. Debelius III of the Circuit Court for Montgomery County , Maryland . In this decision, Judge Debelius found that the ADA requires places of public accommodation to consider the needs of people with disabilities in developing emergency evacuation plans. As a result, shopping malls, stores, restaurants, movie theaters, museums, and other entities subject to the ADA throughout the country, whether landlords or tenants, should now seek to accommodate people with disabilities in the development and modification of emergency evacuation procedures.

"The settlement with Marshalls is a significant step in ensuring the safety of consumers with disabilities, and should serve as a model for other retailers," said Elaine Gardner, Director of the Disability Rights Project at the Washington Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs. "The ADA always has been understood to help get people with disabilities into places of public accommodation. Now, for the first time, it also works to ensure that public places try to get those same people out in the event of a fire, terrorist attack, or other emergency." "I am extremely proud of the Marshalls settlement and hope that it will serve as an example to other retailers when they are designing their emergency evacuation procedures," said Ms. Savage. "This is an agreement which recognizes that people with disabilities are not second-class citizens, and that our safety is just as important as others in the event of an emergency." One of Ms. Savage’s attorneys, Steve Hollman, agreed. "This is a landmark agreement that will establish access to emergency services for thousands of people with disabilities across the country," said Mr. Hollman, a partner with Hogan & Hartson L.L.P. in Washington, D.C. "And because governments can seek guidance from the way the law is interpreted for public accommodations under the ADA, this case should have significance not just to commercial landowners, but also to state, local, and federal agencies who are designing their evacuation plans."

The parties agreed to a confidential financial settlement. Among other things, Marshalls also agreed to:

• Certify that each of its stores located within the United States and Puerto Rico provides an accessible emergency exit or area of rescue assistance for people with disabilities;

• Develop written, corporate-wide policies and procedures for the evacuation of people with disabilities;

• Train all current and future employees on its new evacuation policies;

• Retain an ADA Consultant to help plan and implement the terms of the settlement;

• Designate an employee within Marshalls to oversee and coordinate implementation of the terms of the settlement; and

• Verify compliance with the terms of the settlement by submitting compliance reports as the new evacuation policies are implemented.

Solution:

Kevin McGuire’s firm has produced the McGuire Associates Evacuation Program. It consists of an administrative planning video/DVD, a staff training video/DVD (both produced at NFL Films), and a variety of model memos and suggested forms. He have sold it to many venues who have found it invaluable for planning and training for the evacuation of employees, guests, and visitors with disabilities. The product addresses evacuations when time is of the essence. Buildings may plan to send people with disabilities to areas of rescue to wait to be evacuated. But if the emergency is severe enough, there may be no time to wait. This product addresses such situations. In addition, the training video/DVD instructs viewers how to assist people with various types of disabilities:

• Carrying people with or without their wheelchairs;

• Employing the sighted guide techniques for people with service animals or white canes;

• Using important evacuation terms in American Sign Language.

McGuire Associates is happy to extend a special purchase price of $950 (plus $45 for shipping/handling) for FFMA members. Orders can be placed via the firm's website (link below) or by calling 800.940.4348. If you wish to view my product's promotional video, also produced by NFL Films, you may go to my website, www.mcguireassociatesinc.com, then click on "Click Here for McGuire Associates Evacuation Program Info", then click on "View a 3-Minute Presentation". Finally, an article from the NFPA Journal addressing this issue will be attached to this newsletter.

ON THE MOVE…

BOB PAPKE NAMED GENERAL MANAGER OF THE TIMES-UNION CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

Following the departure of Adina Alford at the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts, SMG named Bob Papke at the new General Manager of the facilities. Bob previously worked at the Jackie Gleason Theatre in Miami . He is scheduled to start in late April. Adina left the center to become the Assistant General Manager at the fabulous Fox Theatre in Atlanta . We wish both Bob and Adina the best in their new positions.

ORANGE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER NEW HIRES & PROMOTIONS

ORLANDO , FL – February 11, 2005 - Maureen Negron has been promoted to Assistant Supervisor of Exhibitor Services. Maureen began as a Customer Service Representative and has been with the convention center for the past 8 years. In 2004 she was promoted to Senior Exhibitor Service Representative where she was assigned to exhibitors to assist with services for some of the largest trade shows host at the Convention Center. “Maureen’s dedication is exactly what has propelled her to advance at the Convention Center. We have seasoned sales professionals and these individuals will certainly enhance our sales team to drive more convention business for Orlando and the Orange County Convention Center ” states Yulita Osuba, OCCC’s Marketing Manager.

Gwen Wilson has recently joined the Orange County Convention Center as Corporate Account Executive. Gwen’s primary responsibility is to focus on corporate business for the Center. Prior to joining the OCCC marketing team Gwen worked for LMG, Inc. as Sales and Marketing Manager.

Lisa Williams has been promoted to Senior Account Executive focusing on national trade association accounts in Washington DC . Williams started with the Orange County Convention Center in 1996 as an Account Executive responsible for the consumer and local meetings markets.

RUTH ECKERD HALL ADDS TO STAFF

Ruth Eckerd Hall continues to grow and welcomes the following additions to the staff:

Christine Dever, CFO
Nancy Honderich, Member Events Associate
Crystelle Miranda, Marketing Coordinator
Sarah Martin, IT Support Specialist
Sandy Pomering, Accounting/HR Assistant

The Ruth Eckerd Hall management team wishes each of the new staffers well in their new positions.

SARASOTA SPORTS FACILITIES WELCOMES MANAGER OF RECREATION AND SPORTS

Sarasota Sports Facilities is happy to announce that their family has grown. Sue Martin arrived in January from snowy Sandusky , Ohio to fill the reincarnated position of Manager of Recreation and Sports. This position has been vacant for several years, but with the adoption of an awesome Skate Park and S/J Children’s Fountain, Sports Facilities Manager, Pat Calhoon, definitely needed an assistant. Sue oversees operations of the Skate Park and Children’s Fountain and assists at Ed Smith Stadium, the Baseball Spring Training home of the Cincinnati Reds.

STEVE PELHAM MOVES TO REVEAL IMAGING TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

Industry veteran Steve Pelham has joined Reveal Imaging Technologies, Inc., developers of Automated baggage inspection systems, as director, U.S. sales. Pelham spent the last 18 years with Milliken Carpet and led their Aviation & Assembly Division the last seven. He will continue to live in LaGrange , GA , and has opened the first southeast office for Reveal. "The energy around this team made it easier for me to join them," he said. "They want to win and have fun doing it. The idea of a 'start-up' was a thrilling proposition for me." The company's newest product is the CT-80, an explosives detection system that has been fully certified by the Transportation Safety Administration for checked baggage inspection in U.S. airports. The FFMA would like to wish Steve all the best in his new position.

TOM DOYEN LEAVES STAGERIGHT

CHUCK ROGERS JOINS ADVANCED BUSINESS INTEGRATORS, INC.

Sacramento, CA-based information technology systems company Advanced Business Integrators, Inc. (ABI) announced that industry veteran Chuck Rogers has been named vice president of sales. Rogers has built a professional reputation over the last 20 years throughout the industry representing high quality products and services. "I am very excited about my new association with ABI and this opportunity to represent the premier provider of technology to our industry," said Rogers . "With his great reputation and standing in the industry, Chuck's addition to the ABI team will accelerate the expansion of our superb product into even more venues," added David Schwartz, ABI president. The FFMA wishes Chuck all the best in his new position.

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

The Legislative session may be over by the time you read this. But for now, with three and a half weeks left, the issues facing the FFMA are in a variety of postures.

As everyone should be aware, the major focus of the legislative effort this year is to remove the July 2006 sunset on the tax exemptions put in place in 2000. Rep. Carroll, from Jacksonville, and Sen. Crist, from Tampa, filed HB 1063 and SB 2520, respectively.

The House bill is moving along smoothly and should go to the floor of the House for a vote within the next two weeks and be sent to the Senate. The Senate companion bill has not fared as well. Eric Hart and the Board of the Florida Theater jumped into action to contact Sen. King, (R-Jacksonville) to urge him to agenda the bill. As you may have read in the newspapers, Senate President Lee is opposed to any passing any tax exemptions this year. The task ahead is to get the bill moving in the Senate and convince President Lee that the exemption is already in place; so, he is not passing a “new” exemption.

The language involving the use of pyrotechnic devices and materials continues to move as a part of a much larger bill involving a variety of issues of concern to firefighters. I continue to monitor this legislation for passage. The FFMA is fine operating under current law. As in past years the concern is that if language regulating the use of pyrotechnic devices is adopted that it be the language we have drafted and proposed.

The use of tobacco on stage during live theatrical performances came to my attention during my attendance at the Florida Presenters meeting in Tampa in February. The legislation I have proposed and gotten included in a Senate bill creates an exception to the Clean Indoor Air Workplace legislation for such tobacco use. I have just today enlisted the assistance of the Presenters and other FFMA members to wage an outright phone campaign to convince Sen. Geller to keep the language in his bill and to have Rep. Sorenson put the language in his legislation.

NEWS AROUND THE STATE

WEST PALM BEACH CONVENTION CENTER HOTEL IS A DONE DEAL!

WEST PALM BEACH , FL - Mayor Lois Frankel, representatives of CityPlace and Ocean Properties together with Palm Beach County finalized the agreement to build a hotel on the Palm Beach County Convention Center site. The new hotel will be a crucial addition to the Convention Center property, allowing West Palm Beach to compete with other cities for world-class events. The events will also generate new revenue for downtown businesses as participants will now be able to remain in the area for extended stays while attending Convention Center activities.

Terms of the deal include a guaranteed $32 million dollar tax base for the City that will generate tax revenues to be reinvested in West Palm Beach ’s downtown by the Community Redevelopment Agency. The agreement also includes a $10,750,000 payment to CityPlace for the land that will be divided between the County, which will pay $10 million dollars, and Ocean Properties that will pay the remaining $750,000. The deal also includes a $1.4 million dollar payment to the City of West Palm Beach to be divided between CityPlace and Ocean Properties. The deal settles all lawsuits that had been filed, and paves the way for a world-class hotel to be build along side the Convention Center.

DR. PALLAVI PATEL PERFORMING ARTS CONSERVATORY RECOGNIZED WITH PRESTIGIOUS PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT AWARD

TAMPA , FL - The Dr. Pallavi Patel Performing Arts Conservatory at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, designed by Jonathan R. Toppe AIA, Toppe Consultants, Inc. in association with Harvard Jolly, received the 2004 Charles A. McIntosh, Jr. Award of Distinction at the 13 th Annual Future of the Region Awards on March 14. The awards program provides honor and recognition for notable achievement in resource planning and management in the Tampa Bay area. With these awards, the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council hopes to encourage future vision and cooperation throughout the community.

The Patel Conservatory was particularly recognized for good planning and being a compact addition to the existing Center that required minimal land area, minimizing its impact on the environment. John Toppe performed the master planning and designed The Conservatory as Principal in Charge with Harvard Jolly Clees Toppe Architects, and he remained as principal architect following his retirement from the firm in 2004. Toppe is now providing planning and design for performing arts and library projects throughout Florida . Founded in 1938, Harvard Jolly has enjoyed steady growth over the last six decades and is now a major regional firm, serving clients throughout the Southeast. They are committed to lasting relationships and have a repeat client rate of more than 80 percent.

The Center’s Patel Conservatory focuses 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 on the north side of the current Center site. Spring classes in dance, theater, music and digital arts start March 28 and summer classes start June 6. 

THE PENSACOLA CIVIC CENTER TAKES NUMBER ONE IN NATIONAL PUBLICATION

PENSACOLA , FL - Hurricane Ivan may have packed a punch and pummeled Pensacola but he didn’t knock out the Pensacola Civic Center managed by SMG . In fact, this event season has been one of the busiest for the 20 year old building. The April issue of Venues Today magazine lists the Pensacola Civic Center as number one in 5001-10,000 seat arenas in their Florida Venues chart. The time period covers events from January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2004 . Since Hurricane Ivan struck the area on September 16 th, over 256,000 patrons have visited the facility. That number doesn’t begin to include the six weeks of hosting the Escambia County Judicial System. The diversity of the shows has been phenomenal ranging from family shows such as the Harlem Globetrotters to heavy metal mavens Metallica.

The Pensacola Civic Center ’s events have been successful and the return business and community support continues to promise a bright future. What’s the reason for the Civic Center ’s success? Cyndee Pennington, General Manager for SMG at the Pensacola Civic Center attributes that success to “national resources, local management and awesome community support.”  

CONSTRUCTION BEGINS ON CHALLENER- MORROW PRODUCTION STUDIOS

The original education building across from Ruth Eckerd Hall will get a new look this year and upon completion will receive a new name --- the Challener-Morrow Production Studios, in honor of the long-time support and dedication of members Robert Challener and Nelson Morrow. The actual remodeling will begin in early Spring and is scheduled to be finished by early Summer. Upon completion, the studios will become the permanent home for the Eckerd Theater Company. The remodeling of this studio will allow the Pinellas Youth Symphony to conduct their future rehearsals in the Murray Studio Theater. The renovations are made possible by a financial donation from Ray and Nancy Murray.  

SARASOTA SPORTS FACILITIES HOSTS REDS INAUGURAL SEASON AND SEEKS RENOVATIONS

SARASOTA , FL - On April 7, the Sarasota Reds, Cincinnati ’s Florida State League A-team, will open their inaugural season at Ed Smith Stadium. “The Reds” are replacing Boston ’s Sarasota Red Socks as the minor league team playing in Sarasota . Good luck Sarasota Reds!

Endless effort is being put forth to encourage Florida legislature to appropriate grant funds necessary to renovate aging Florida Major League Baseball Spring Training facilities that are owned/operated by local governments. Although a well-maintained facility, Ed Smith Stadium is showing signs of its 17 years and needs extensive renovations. Passing of this legislation coupled with f inancial support from Sarasota County, the City of Sarasota and the Cincinnati Reds, a $30 million renovation project is possible Rep. Nancy Detert recently presented funding legislation, House Bill 1287, for certified spring training facilities, attached to the Marlin's Bill (legislation to financially support private/public partnership for new stadiums) in committee meetings of Tourism and then in Commerce. Both Committees passed the legislation and the bill will proceed to the House Appropriations Committee before moving to the general membership. Please support us in these efforts.

ED SMITH STADIUM HOSTS TRAVELING VIETNAM WALL MEMORIAL

SARASOTA , FL - It is an honor and privilege to be hosting the Traveling Vietnam Wall Memorial at Ed Smith Stadium this year. From noon April 28 until 8 a.m. May 2, the exhibit will be open free to the public around the clock. To pay respect to the many that lost their lives, Remembrance Ceremonies will be observed each day. A special Ceremony will be observed on April 30, marking the 30 th anniversary of the unofficial end of the Vietnam War, signaled by the evacuation of Saigon . Everyone is cordially invited to join in observing this solemn patriotic occasion at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota.  

DOLPHINS ANNOUNCE MAJOR ORGANIZATIONAL AND STADIUM CHANGES; POSITION FRANCHISE FOR RENEWED EXCELLENCE

MIAMI, FL - The Miami Dolphins today announced three major initiatives that will position the team to reclaim its tradition of excellence, augment their leadership role in professional sports and entertainment, reinforce the team’s commitment to its fans and to the South Florida community and enhance the fans’ experience at their home games. Those initiatives will be privately funded and will include major renovations and additions to the stadium, a new stadium name and a redesigned and expanded organizational structure designed to position the Dolphins at the absolute cutting edge of sports franchises.

“The Dolphins have always been in the forefront of the sports and entertainment field, and we have developed a series of plans designed to reinforce that position of leadership,” said Dolphins Owner H. Wayne Huizenga. “We are committed to providing our fans and the community with a championship product on the field, state-of-the-art facilities and the most enjoyable experience possible at our events.

Renaming the Stadium

“The first step was naming Nick Saban as head of our football operations, and we’ve already seen the enthusiasm he’s brought to our franchise. Now we’re introducing three initiatives that will ensure our competitive position in the NFL and serve our fans and the South Florida community as never before. They will elevate the Dolphins brand even more by making our organization and our stadium industry leaders in every respect. “The first of these initiatives is to immediately rename the stadium Dolphins Stadium. It’s the home of a widely respected sports franchise, and the Dolphins tradition of excellence should be underlined by having the team name carried on one of the nation’s premier facilities. Further, the name Dolphins Stadium will not only reinforce the Dolphins brand locally, but will extend it nationally and internationally through the world-class events that are hosted there.

Renovations

“Then it’s our vision to transform the stadium into a year-round destination and a venue that is ready-made for the Super Bowl, Orange Bowl and other major national and international events. These changes will not only enhance the fans’ enjoyment at our games, but also will attract major events to South Florida more frequently and boost the area’s economy while these events use the stadium and its surrounding facilities.” The renovation will be rolled out in three phases because the stadium’s existing commitment to the Florida Marlins prevents a more immediate implementation plan. Projects currently under consideration for Phase I will include a remodeled Club Level and luxury suites, new state-of-the-art scoreboards, covered exhibition space that would be event-ready and would serve as an additional parking structure adjacent to the stadium, better traffic flow in and out of the stadium, improved pedestrian access and relocation of the Dolphins business offices to the stadium. These privately funded enhancements are estimated to cost between $100 and $125 million. Phase II, which could not commence until the relocation of the Marlins, would potentially include expansion of the stadium concourses, a permanent or retractable roof, additional seating capacity, greatly expanded exhibition space and parking structures to augment those built in Phase I, upgraded press capabilities for major events, video studios, and fiber optic and satellite communications. This phase also could include retail shops, restaurants, and entertainment areas in a Main Street format. These improvements would cost approximately $200 to $300 million in private funds.

Additional Development

Phase III projects under consideration will serve other elements of the South Florida community on a daily basis and provide economic stimulation and an increased tax base. These proposals include a mixed use development of an office complex, a hotel that would enhance the stadium’s ability to attract world-class sports and entertainment events and potentially a residential component. Also under consideration are additional destination retail shops, restaurants, and entertainment areas, also in a Main Street format, and a Hall of Fame. To manage these operations, Huizenga is creating an innovative sports and entertainment company, Dolphins Enterprises, LLC. This company will serve as an umbrella for all of the Huizenga sports and entertainment operating entities, including sports operations, business operations, stadium operations, stadium development and construction, stadium events and exhibitions, sales and marketing, and retail and merchandising. Dolphins Enterprises will be headed by a new Chief Executive Officer who will report directly to Huizenga. Dolphins Head Coach Nick Saban also will report directly to Huizenga and will work with the new CEO on a day-to-day basis. The new CEO is expected to be named shortly, Huizenga said. Dolphins Enterprises has hired the Hammes Company to develop the master concept for the renovations and additions to Dolphins Stadium. Hammes was involved in the renovation of Lambeau Field in Green Bay and the development of Ford Field in Detroit , and serves as a consultant to the NFL on numerous projects, including Los Angeles stadium initiatives. Hammes will be complemented by a world-class team of architects, planners, engineers and design professionals that will be selected shortly. Initial conceptual plans will be ready in the coming weeks, the Dolphins said. “We have an energetic and aggressive plan for a new era for the Miami Dolphins, which started by bringing Coach Saban on board,” Huizenga said. “The steps announced today continue that overall vision to serve our fans and the South Florida community in the best way possible, provide them the best entertainment experience and create the infrastructure to position us for dynamic growth that will take our franchise to the next level.”

DOLPHINS STADIUM

TOTAL ACREAGE = 268.5 ACRES

SUPERBOWL OF MOTORSPORTS – FASTEST STADIUM SELLOUT

TAMPA , FL - Raymond James Stadium (RJS) has consistently been an “advance sell out” for the Monster Jam Superbowl of Motorsports. For this year’s event, RJS ranked as the all time fastest stadium sell out in history for the Monster Jam event.  

TD WATERHOUSE CENTRE LATEST AND GREATEST

ORLANDO , FL - The TD Waterhouse Centre was featured in the March issue of Venues Today as the #1 TOP Stops in the nation among venues with 15,000+ seats. The TD Waterhouse Centre topped other venues such as, New York’s Madison Square Gardens, Las Vegas’ MGM Grand Garden Arena, Tampa’s St Pete Times Forum and Ft Lauderdale’s Office Depot Center, just to name a few. The Orlando Centroplex was also highlighted in the publication under the HOT Tickets section with three shows in the top 30-ticketed performances, from January through February. Those events included Hairspray at the Carr Performing Arts Centre, US Hot Rod Superbowl of Motorsports at the Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium and Josh Groban at the TD Waterhouse Centre.

The Orlando Centroplex hosted two SOLD OUT shows with Tori Amos’ Original Sinsuality Tour with special guest Matt Nathanson at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre on Sunday, April 3 and Grammy Award Winning Green Day performs at the TD Waterhouse Centre on Saturday, April 13.

In March, the Orlando Fire Department hosted CPR / AED (Automated External Defibrillation) training sessions for Orlando Centroplex staff and its partners. Over a million patrons visit the Orlando Centroplex annually and the certification process for CPR / AED (Centroplex is equipped with two AEDs) is a benefit to the well being of our guests and staff.  

ORLANDO , FL – Segway Orlando is now the first authorized Segway dealer in the nation within a convention center. The Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) will be able to once again extend convenient services to its clients by having this new and innovative mode of transportation available on site. “It’s exciting to be working with the Orange County Convention Center team,” confirms Tally Helman, president of Segway Orlando. “Offering the Segway â Human Transporter (HT) to meeting planners and conventioneers alike as a mode of transportation around one of the country’s largest convention centers is an innovative idea. This is in keeping with OCCC’s many ‘firsts’ in the business.”

Based within the Center, Helman is able to make his Segways available to show managers, exhibitors, convention attendees and service providers on a special rental rate per day or as a purchased item should the user desire to own the HT. Since safety is a key to this visionary program, certified Segway training is included before each user is sent solo within the Center. Each guest not only views a 15-minute safety video on the equipment, but also receives a 60-minute hands-on competency training by authorized staff.

Compact, the Segway HT is a smart choice in high traffic areas. It allows the rider to be seen and to see over other pedestrians. The versatility of the Segway is another added bonus. Riders can glide into elevators, use the vehicle on multi terrains and even turn on a zero radius. The Segway HT has been recognized as a smart choice for high traffic areas, like convention centers. “Already the ‘buzz’ in the industry several show managers are looking into the use of the Segways to ease their time back and forth on the floor of the convention center,” Helman adds. “This enables them to cover the areas of their show and be more versatile in overseeing the events.” The most recent convention to utilize Segways was the National Association of Home Builders, which just completed their annual convention at the OCCC on January 16th.

Segway Orlando is located at the Orange County Convention Center, 9800 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819; 407-685-1600.

UNIVERSAL ORLANDO PARTNERS WITH ORANGE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER TO PROVIDE ULTIMATE SERVICE TO MEETING PLANNERS

ORLANDO , FL - Universal Orlando resort has entered into an unprecedented partnership with Florida's Orange County Convention Center to offer "one-stop entertainment shopping" for meeting planners, show managers and exhibitors.  In February, 2005,  Universal Orlando opened an on site office at the Orange County Convention Center from which it provides prospective clients full-service entertainment associated with this world-famous resort, whether it is selling park tickets for one or 10,000; or private events at their theme parks, the on-site hotels or at the CityWalk entertainment and dining complex. 

"This first-of-its-kind partnership makes it extremely easy for clients to accomplish all of their meeting and conference goals, from business objectives to great entertainment" said Paul Rothenberg, Universal's vice president of event sales, group sales and CityWalk marketing. "Meeting planners get a better sense of the strength of this community when they call the OCCC and can immediately be dialed into all the great opportunities offered by Universal Orlando." The Universal Orlando resort is the first theme park destination to have precedence on site at the Orange County Convention Center .  "We continue to explore new and innovative ways to provide added value and new services to our clients.  Through this unique partnership, the OCCC can offer clients the opportunity to enjoy the benefits and convenience of Universal Orlando," states Yulita Osuba, Marketing Manager.

MILESTONES

RUTH ECKERD HALL CELEBRATES THE
10TH ANNIVERSARY OF BACCHUS IN BLACK TIE

Ten years ago, Bacchus in Black Tie was created as a means to support the educational programs of Ruth Eckerd Hall at the Richard B. Baumgardner Center for the Performing Arts. Our educational programs include Bank of America SchoolTime and SchoolTime on the Road Series, St. Petersburg Times Family Series, Arts in Medicine, Eckerd Theater Company, community arts programs, scholarships, classes & private sessions in drama, instrumental, vocal music and musical theater. Over 1 million young people have participated in these programs since there inception. Now, with the completed construction of the new Marcia P. Hoffman Performing Arts Institute, we have expanded arts education opportunities in our community for students of all ages. Bacchus in Black Tie has raised in excess of $500,000.00 to support the educational programs of Ruth Eckerd Hall.

POLLSTAR RANKS BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS THIRD

Broward Center for the Performing Arts ranked third on POLLSTAR’S “world top 50 venue –Theatres” for tickets sold in the first quarter of 2005. Between Jan 1 and March 21, 2005 , the Broward Center for the Performing Arts grossed $126,641 in ticket sales for shows. 

RAYMOND JAMES STADIUM WINS TOP TURF AWARD

In February, Raymond James Stadium (RJS) was again recognized as the number one playing surface in the NFL. RJS has been voted the top field turf each year of the awards since opening the stadium in 1998. This distinction is awarded biennially to the NFL stadium with the playing surface most preferred by the NFL players. The NFL Players Association League-wide player survey concerning NFL Clubs’ playing surfaces is a written survey conducted by NFLPA Safety and Welfare Committee staff members at their meetings during the 2004 NFL season. The survey indicated the players’ overwhelming preference for a top quality natural grass playing surface.

As early as 1980, Tampa Stadium had been referred to as the League’s top turf. In the early 80s, NFLPA began awarding the top playing surface awards and Tampa Stadium was voted tops by the players annually. The RJS staff works very hard to provide a quality/safe surface for all community events held at the stadium.

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT

Florida Facility Managers Association would like to take this opportunity to recognize CLARIN for their outstanding support and involvement. Since 1997, CLARIN, and in particular Steve Luttazi has supported the FFMA and many of its member venues.

CLARIN…World Class Comfort and Quality

Celebrating our 80th Anniversary, Clarin has set the standard for excellence in portable seating since 1925. The legacy began with our revolutionary frame design that created a folding chair of unmatched strength and exceptional style. This tradition of world class craftsmanship continues today as Clarin offers innovative portable seating solutions for a full range of venues-from convention centers, places of worship, educational facilities and sports and entertainment arenas. Clarin seating products add style to every gathering.

Engineered for durability and comfort, Clarin seating products feature the finest quality construction while ensuring long lasting value-all at competitive prices. Clarin quality does not stop there…we also offer space saving chair storage trucks and transportation products and we provide superior design support to optimize seating configurations and organize event functions.

Friend to FFMA

Clarin has been a long time supporter of FFMA for many years. Steve Luttazi, Senior Vice-President of Sales has been attending FFMA meetings for the past seven years. Clarins relationship with FFMA and its members is stronger than ever. Clarins current “Sports & Entertainment” clients include many facilities throughout the state of Florida . Clarin’s customers in Florida include:

University of Miami Convocation Center…Office Depot Center…America Airlines Arena…Sound Advice Amphitheater…University of Central Florida Arena…Orlando Magic…Ford Amphitheater…Jacksonville Arena…USF Sundome…Osceola Heritage Park-Silver Spurs Arena…Raymond James Stadium…Tampa Bay Devil Rays…Tallahassee-Leon County Civic Center…City of Palms Park-Ft. Myers…Jacksonville Jaguars… Bayfront Center…Sarasota County Agricultural Fair…Kissimmee Civic Center…The Lakeland Center…Florida Marlins…Pro Player Stadium Miami Dolphins…Miami Arena…Miami Beach Convention Center…Hard Rock Hotel and Casino-Hollywood.

New Products

Clarin is proud to offer an extraordinary line of comfortable, durable and attractive stacking chairs. Created by the leading chair designers, our stacking chair line once again sets the standard in the industry. Clarin stacking chairs are designed to suit your seating needs, from meeting rooms to banquet halls and everything in between. Our stacking chairs are ideal for convention centers, public assemblies, places of worship, educational facilities and sports & entertainment arenas.

Other new products include the “VIP” Chair. This new item was designed for the premium seating market. Utilizing the original “X” frame double tube and channel design, the VIP portable chair delivers durability along with the sophisticated look and feel your clients deserve. The VIP’s contoured seat and lumbar back support provide each guest optimal space and comfort, while allowing the facility maximum seating capacity.

The demand for a wider folding chair directed Clarin to design our new “Presidential” seat offering nearly 20 inches in width for greater comfort.

Clarin continues to lead the way when it comes to NBA facilities. Many teams at the professional level as well as the college level have requested that we design a chair for taller individuals. We have designed a folding chair, model 3422, with a 22” seat height, four inches greater than our standard 18” seat height.

For more information contact:

Steven J. Luttazi
Senior Vice President-Sales
508-528-9708
508-541-5668 Fax
sluttazi@clarinseating.com

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

NEWS OF FFMA FRIENDS

A MESSAGE FROM DAVE TOUHEY, SENIOR DIRECTOR FOR ENTERTAINMENT, MCI CENTER

Although I miss the sunny skies and warm weather of a Florida winter, it has been nice to get back to a change of seasons.  Things are going great here in DC, I’m really enjoying the area and having a lot of fun with the new job.  I will miss the FFMA meeting and being involved with such a tight knit group of industry professionals.  Look forward to seeing you all in DC for the IAAM Conference in July.

FFMA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE UPDATES

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

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, Assoc. Director, UCF Recreation & Wellness Ctr
Member At Large: Rick Hamilton, Director, Ocean Center (Daytona Beach)
Past Presidents: Mike LaPan, Director, The Lakeland Center (Lakeland)
Roger Englert, Deputy Director, Tallahassee-Leon County Civic Center
Bill Becker, Retiree
Allen Johnson, Director, Orlando Centroplex
Ron Spencer, Director, Tallahassee-Leon County Civic Center