Is your organization announcing news related to venues? Send it to rknapp@oakviewgroup for consideration for Release Roundup.


Harry Styles Set to Open New UBS Arena at Belmont Park With First-Ever Concert

Grammy winner Harry Styles will be the first music artist for the grand opening of UBS Arena at Belmont Park, New York, on Nov. 28 as the finale of his 2021 “Love On Tour.” Tickets will go on sale at noon Nov. 5 at Ticketmaster.com.

Harry Styles Set to Open New UBS Arena at Belmont Park With First-Ever Concert (Oct. 29, 2021)


Lexington Center Corp. and OVG Facilities Promote Brian Sipe to General Manager of Central Bank Center

The Lexington Center Corp. and Oak View Group Facilities on Monday named Brian Sipe general manager of Central Bank Center in Lexington, Kentucky, which comprises 20,000-seat Rupp Arena, the new 200,000-square-foot Convention Center, and the 900-seat Opera House.

Sipe has served as OVG director of booking at Rupp Arena since April 2019. He is replacing longtime Lexington Center Corp. executive Bill Owen, who will retire June 30.

Lexington Center Corp. and OVG Facilities Promote Brian Sipe to General Manager of Central Bank Center (Oct. 4, 2021)


ASM Global Names Jay Cooper General Manager of T-Mobile Center 

ASM Global announced Jay Cooper has been named general manager of T-Mobile Center in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. Cooper has been with the company for 25 years and most recently was senior vice president of global solutions.
He succeeds Brenda Tinnen, who announced in May that she was stepping down from the GM role at T-Mobile Center.

ASM Global Names Jay Cooper as General Manager of T-Mobile Center (Sept. 28, 2021)


VenuWorks Names Vicksburg Convention Center Executive Director

Venue operator VenuWorks has promoted Erin Southard to executive director of the Vicksburg Convention Center in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Southard was sales and events manager for the convention center and has been with VenuWorks since 2003.

VenuWorks Names Vicksburg Convention Center Executive Director (Sept. 27, 2021)


Pacers and Fever Home Renamed Gainbridge Fieldhouse Through Pacers Sports & Entertainment and Gainbridge Partnership

Pacers Sports & Entertainment on Monday announced that Indianapolis-based Gainbridge is the new naming partner for the home of the Indiana Pacers, Indiana Fever, and hundreds of events throughout the year.

Pacers and Fever Home Renamed Gainbridge Fieldhouse Through Pacers Sports & Entertainment and Gainbridge Partnership (Sept. 27, 2021)


LA Clippers to Announce Partnership During Groundbreaking for Intuit Dome

The NBA’s Los Angeles Clippers and financial software company Intuit, which makes TurboTax, QuickBooks, Credit Karma and Mint, announced Friday that they have entered a 23-year partnership. The deal includes naming rights to the future home of the Clippers, scheduled to open in Inglewood, California, for the 2024-25 season, which will be called the Intuit Dome.

The Clippers, Intuit and community leaders will break ground this morning.

LA Clippers to Announce Partnership During Groundbreaking for Intuit Dome (Sept. 17, 2021)


KultureCity Names Little Caesars Arena 2021 Sensory Inclusive Venue of the Year

KultureCity named Little Caesars Arena in Detroit the 2021 Sensory Inclusive Venue of the Year. The award was presented at the KultureBall in Birmingham, Alabama, on Saturday night. The arena is home to the NHL’s Red Wings and the NBA’s Pistons.

All events hosted at the arena are sensory inclusive, designed to promote a positive experience for guests and fans with sensory needs. Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, post-traumatic stress disorder and other similar conditions.

KultureCity Names Little Caesars Arena 2021 Sensory Inclusive Venue of the Year (Aug. 25, 2021)


Kevin Kastrup Joins Wasserman Music as VP, Casinos

Kevin Kastrup has joined Wasserman Music as vice president of casinos, overseeing North American casino bookings for the agency’s client roster. Kastrup is based in Wasserman’s New York office. He was an agent at Paradigm Talent Agency for nine years, where he specialized in symphonies and performing arts centers, as well as representing artists including A.R. Rahman, Lyle Lovett, Ry Cooder, and Wayne Shorter. (Photo Michelle Findlay / Courtesy Wasserman Music)

Kevin Kastrup Joins Wasserman Music as VP, Casinos (Aug. 23, 2021)


Kentucky Venues Enlists Spectra Partnerships to Secure Naming Rights for Two Major Venues and Sponsorship Opportunities at Six Signature Produced Events

Kentucky Venues, which operates the Kentucky Exposition Center and the Kentucky International Convention Center (above), on Wednesday announced that Spectra Partnerships will serve as its sales consulting agency. The team will be responsible for identifying and cultivating naming rights and corporate sponsorships for the exposition center and the convention center, both in Louisville, to generate new revenue sources.

Kentucky Venues Enlists Spectra Partnerships to Secure Naming Rights for Two Major Venues and Sponsorship Opportunities at Six Signature Produced Events (Aug. 4, 2021)


Andrew Saunders Named Vice President of Entertainment for Seminole Gaming

Andrew Saunders has been named vice president of entertainment for Seminole Gaming, with responsibility for live entertainment programming at Seminole Gaming venues throughout Florida. Saunders most recently held booking positions for AEG at Staples Center and Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles as a senior talent buyer working in tandem with the Presents division and was a VenuesNow Generation Next honoree in 2019.

Seminole Gaming entertainment venues include the 7,500-seat Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, the 1,500-seat Hard Rock Event Center at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa, the 836-seat Seminole Center at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee, plus venues at Seminole Casino Coconut Creek, Seminole Brighton Casino and Seminole Classic Casino in Hollywood, Fla.

Andrew Saunders Named Vice President of Entertainment for Seminole Gaming (July 29, 2021)


Thunder, Paycom Announce 15-Year Arena Naming Rights Agreement

The NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder and Paycom on Tuesday announced a 15-year naming rights partnership that will transform the downtown home of the Thunder into Paycom Center. The name change takes effect immediately, with exterior signage to be completed in time for the start of the 2021-22 Thunder season. Financial details of the deal were not announced. The arena had been known as Chesapeake Energy Arena since 2011.

Thunder, Paycom Announce 15-Year Arena Naming Rights Agreement (July 27, 2021)


LA Clippers Organization Adds Two Executive-Level Positions

The LA Clippers organization has added two executive-level positions. George Hanna (right), chief technology and digital officer, will work across the NBA Clippers, the G League Agua Caliente Clippers, the Forum and the Inglewood Basketball and Entertainment Center, the Clippers’ planned new arena scheduled to open in 2024, and oversee technology and digital. Alex Winsberg begins as the new chief legal officer for the new arena and general counsel of the Forum.

Nicole Duckett, Clippers general counsel and vice president, remains in her executive role leading legal for the teams, and she, Hanna and Winsberg all report to Gillian Zucker, president of business operations. The changes were effective June 28.

LA Clippers Organization Adds Two Executive-Level Positions (July 13, 2021)


Spectra Offers Venues Universal Mobile Application Powered by Venuetize

Venue management and hospitality provider Spectra has partnered with mobile first and advanced payment technology company Venuetize to offer a universal mobile application across Spectra’s more than 330 properties that provides guests a contactless experience while attending live events.

Spectra Offers Venues Universal Mobile Application Powered by Venuetize (June 30, 2021)


The Public Theater Adopts Contactless Mobile Ticketing from True Tickets

True Tickets has launched its secure, contactless mobile ticketing service for The Public Theater to bring digital ticketing to Free Shakespeare in the Park in New York City as well as other events to ensure a safe return to performances this summer.

The Public Theater Adopts Contactless Mobile Ticketing from True Tickets (June 29, 2021)


Madison Square Garden Entertainment Promotes Randy Fibiger to SVP, Bookings, and Expands Role of Josephine Vaccarello to SVP, MSG Live & Business Operations

Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. announced Monday that Randy Fibiger has been promoted to senior vice president of bookings and that Josephine Vaccarello has been named senior vice president of MSG Live and business operations. In the newly created roles, Fibiger and Vaccarello will continue to report to Darren Pfeffer, executive vice president of MSG Live for MSG Entertainment.

Fibiger and Vaccarello with Foo Fighters at the band’s MSG show Sunday. (Gus Brandt / Courtesy Madison Square Garden Entertainment)

Madison Square Garden Entertainment Promotes Randy Fibiger to SVP, Bookings, and Expands Role of Josephine Vaccarello to SVP, MSG Live & Business Operations (June 21, 20212)


Las Vegas to Host SummerSlam at Allegiant Stadium

WWE announced that its SummerSlam event will take place at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Aug. 21, marking the first time the annual event has been held at an NFL stadium. Allegiant Stadium opened last year as the home of the Las Vegas Raiders but without fans because of COVID-19, so SummerSlam will be one of the first events held at full capacity there. (Photo courtesy HNTB)

Las Vegas to Host SummerSlam at Allegiant Stadium (June 5, 2021)


Los Angeles Lakers Extend Their Staples Center Partnership Through 2041 Season

The Los Angeles Lakers and AEG, the owners of Staples Center, have signed a long-term lease extension agreement ensuring that the defending NBA champions will remain in their downtown Los Angeles home arena through the 2041 season.

Los Angeles Lakers Extend Their Staples Center Partnership Through 2041 Season (May 27, 2021)


City Football Group Joins Oak View Group as a Joint Venture Partner in Co-op Live

City Football Group, whose football and other sports-related businesses are led by Premier League champions Manchester City, has become Oak View Group’s equal joint venture partner and investor in planned Manchester arena Co-op Live, alongside Harry Styles, who has taken a minority stake.

The arena is planned for the Etihad Campus, also the site of Manchester City’s home field, Etihad Stadium.

City Football Group joins Oak View Group as a Joint Venture Partner in Co-op Live (May 24, 2021)


Wings of New York Opens First Store-Front Location in Yankee Stadium

Wings of New York, the virtual restaurant concept created by Nathan’s Famous, is opening its first physical restaurant on Friday inside Yankee Stadium. The Wings of New York location will offer a limited version of the restaurant’s menu, including Harlem-style chicken and waffles as well as Nathan’s Famous extra long hot dog.

Wings of New York Opens First Store-Front Location in Yankee Stadium (May 21, 2021)


Dylan Wanagiel Named Vice President of Sports Properties and Special Events at Prudential Center

Prudential Center appointed sports and entertainment industry veteran Dylan Wanagiel to the new role of vice president of sports properties and special events, the Newark, New Jersey, arena announced Wednesday. Wanagiel will be responsible for pursuing, booking, retaining, and the original creation of sports programming and nonticketed special events across all Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment properties.

Wanagiel spent 14 years at Madison Square Garden Entertainment, where he was most recently senior director of sports events.

Dylan Wanagiel Named Vice President of Sports Properties and Special Events at Prudential Center (May 19, 2021)


Tim McNeff Hired as Forum’s VP of Arena Operations

Tim McNeff has been hired as vice president of arena operations at the Forum in Inglewood, California. McNeff comes to the Forum from Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles Football Club and Banc of California Stadium, where he was the assistant general manager and senior director of facilities. McNeff has more than 25 years of operations experience and has also worked at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas; Staples Center in Los Angeles; and Disneyland Resort in Anaheim.

Tim McNeff Hired as Forum’s VP of Arena Operations (May 17, 2021)


Sabertooth Sports & Entertainment LLC, F&M Bank Enter Partnership

Sabertooth Sports & Entertainment LLC announced Tuesday that it had executed a multiyear naming rights agreement on behalf of the Montgomery County Event Center in Clarksville, Tennessee, with Clarksville-based F&M Bank. Sabertooth Sports & Entertainment is owned and operated by Predators Holdings LLC, which owns and operates the NHL’s Nashville Predators and owns Powers Management, which operates Bridgestone Arena.

The Predators last week announced the formation of Sabertooth, an operations and sales service venture that will manage the 250,000-square-foot facility. A name and logo for the venue will be announced later.

Sabertooth Sports & Entertainment LLC, F&M Bank Enter Partnership (May 4, 2021)


Nate Harris Promoted to General Manager of VSU Multi-Purpose Center

In counsel with Virginia State University, Spectra has promoted Nate Harris to general manager of the VSU Multi-Purpose Center in Petersburg. Harris’ responsibilities will include overall management, promotion, and operation of the facility, including construction, purchasing, policy administration, booking, marketing, finance, food and beverage, box office, advertising, security, production and maintenance.

Nate Harris Promoted to General Manager of VSU Multi-Purpose Center (May 3, 2021)


Populous Completes Georgia Tech Mac Nease Baseball Park

Design firm Populous, in association with Collins Cooper Carusi, completed the $10 million Phase II of renovations at Georgia Tech’s recently renamed Mac Nease Baseball Park at Russ Chandler Stadium. 

Among the improvements: a new entry plaza that will provide a space to socialize on game days and Champions Hall, a two-story multipurpose gathering space created on the expanded concourse, which celebrates the history of Georgia Tech baseball. 

Populous Completes Georgia Tech Mac Nease Baseball Park (April 26, 2021)


UMBC Announces Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena

The arena at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, is now Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena, it was announced Monday. The arena opened in February 2018, six weeks before UMBC men’s basketball achieved fame by becoming the first No. 16-seed to ever win a game in the NCAA Tournament, beating 1-seed Virginia.

Both the men’s and women’s basketball teams and the Retriever volleyball team compete in the facility. Oak View Group Facilities manages and operates the arena.

(Photo: Mike Raspa)

UMBC Announces Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena (April 19, 20201)


Centerplate and Graystone Quarry Strike a Melody at Tennessee’s FirstBank Amphitheater

Centerplate has been awarded the long-term contract to provide hospitality and food service at the newly named FirstBank Amphitheater and will be responsible for the management of food and beverage, VIP box and suite in-seat service and alcohol service.

Located at Graystone Quarry in Thompson’s Station at the southern border of Franklin, Tennessee, FirstBank Amphitheater has seats for 7,500 fans and is nestled in a reclaimed limestone quarry.

Centerplate and Graystone Quarry Strike a Melody at Tennessee’s FirstBank Amphitheater (April 15, 2021)


Lyte Partners With Life Is Beautiful Festival for Single-Day Ticket Reservations

Reservations technology platform Lyte has partnered with Life Is Beautiful to host reservations for single-day tickets to the three-day festival in Las Vegas, slated for Sept. 17-19. Life Is Beautiful’s three-day ticket launch March 12 led to intense demand and the potential of high ticket prices on the secondary market. The reservations system for single day tickets is open now.

Lyte Partners With Life Is Beautiful Festival for Single-Day Ticket Reservations (April 12, 2021)


Florida State Board of Trustees Approves Exploration of New Stadium Experiences

The Florida State University athletic department and Seminole Boosters have received approval from the university’s board of trustees to begin conversations with the school’s fan base regarding new conceptual experiences at Doak Campbell Stadium. The permission given by the board was the first of many steps to address the preferences expressed by ticket holders and infrastructure needs and repairs within the stadium.

The most recent round of renovations to the 70-year-old stadium, which has a capacity of 79,560, cost about $80 million and was completed in 2016. Improvements included updates to the suites, new club seats and structural work.

Florida State Board of Trustees Approves Exploration of New Stadium Experiences (April 1, 2021)


Delaware North Announces New SVP of Operations

Delaware North promoted Timothy Townsell to senior vice president of business operations at TD Garden in Boston. Townsell will report to Amy Latimer, president of TD Garden. He most recently served as Sportservice general manager at the arena. 

Townsell’s duties will include developing strategies to support and drive business results for operational excellence, including facility management, capital projects and guest service. He will also serve as a key contact for both Delaware North Sportservice at TD Garden and The Hub on Causeway. 

Delaware North Announces New SVP of Operations (March 31, 2021)


Delaware North Opens Boston’s First Checkout-Free Store Experience Using Amazon’s Just Walk Out Technology 

Hospitality and food service company Delaware North announced the opening of two checkout-free convenience stores at TD Garden using Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology, a first of its kind in the city of Boston. MRKT, on levels 4 and 7 of TD Garden, is stocked with snack and drink options and will leverage Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology to allow fans to shop and pay without stopping to check out. 

Delaware North Opens Boston’s First Checkout-Free Store Experience Using Amazon’s Just Walk Out Technology (March 29, 2021)


Fenway Park Opens 2021 Season With New Disinfection Plan

The Boston Red Sox and Reckitt, the makers of Lysol, have teamed up to create enhanced disinfection and cleaning measures at Fenway Park. The organization will use heightened sanitation procedures in advance of welcoming fans back to Fenway Park for the regular season. The partnership with the Red Sox follows the commitment by Reckitt with Major League Baseball, announced in October 2020.

Fenway Park Opens 2021 Season With New Disinfection Plan (March 29, 2021)


Miami-Dade County Announces New Naming Rights Agreement With FTX

Miami-Dade County and cryptocurrency exchange FTX have reached an agreement for a 19-year partnership to name FTX Arena, home of the NBA’s Miami Heat. The agreement now goes to the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners for approval at a special meeting scheduled for Friday.

The total value of the deal was reported as $135 million by the Miami Herald. Miami-Dade County owns the naming rights for the arena, which has been called AmericanAirlines Arena since it opened in 1999. The deal with the airline expired at the end of 2019.

Miami-Dade County Announces New Naming Rights Agreement with FTX (March 23, 2021)


Easier Entry Options for Knicks and Rangers Games as of April 1

Starting April 1, fans attending Knicks and Rangers games at Madison Square Garden in New York City will have two new options to demonstrate they are eligible to attend an event – proof from a health care provider of a negative antigen COVID-19 test or full vaccination – in addition to a negative PCR COVID-19 test.

New York state has also launched the NY Forward Rapid Test Program, which has multiple testing center locations, including several near the arena, that provide antigen COVID-19 testing, with results available in 30 minutes and for no more than $30.

Easier Entry Options for Knicks and Rangers Games as of April 1 (March 22, 2021)


Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Complex Names New Assistant General Manager

The Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Complex announced the promotion of department veteran Michelle Bradley to assistant general manager. She will oversee the overall and day-to-day operations of the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Raleigh, North Carolina.

Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Complex Names New Assistant General Manager (March 16, 2021)


ASM Global Selected to Provide Management Services at the Dayton Convention Center 

The Montgomery County (Ohio) Convention Facilities Authority selected ASM Global to provide management services for the Dayton Convention Center. In addition to running the day-to-day operations and management of the center, ASM Global will collaborate with the Dayton Convention & Visitors Bureau and area hospitality stakeholders for marketing and promoting the center and providing culinary services. The facility manager will also work with the authority on planning renovations to the center.

ASM Global Selected to Provide Management Services at the Dayton Convention Center (March 11, 2021)


The Commons Project Foundation and Clear Partner to Support Safe, Secure Return to Work, School, Travel, Sports and Entertainment

A partnership announced Friday will allow users of Clear’s Health Pass solution to leverage The Commons Project’s CommonPass platform to collect and manage lab results and vaccination records from trusted health data sources, making it easier for individuals to share their health status so they can safely return to travel, work and school while protecting their health data privacy.

Clear is a secure identity platform that provides frictionless experiences and is being used by over 5 million members across the U.S. and Canada. More than 45 organizations are using Clear’s Health Pass, including the NHL, MGM Resorts, and as a vaccination verification pilot for the healthcare workers who attended Super Bowl LV. The CommonPass platform lets individuals collect their lab results and vaccination records from health data sources in the CommonTrust Network and demonstrate in a privacy-preserving manner that those records satisfy the health screening requirements of their destinations.

The Commons Project Foundation and Clear Partner to Support Safe, Secure Return to Work, School, Travel, Sports and Entertainment (March 5, 2021)


Amanda Moore Promoted to Lead Residency Business for Live Nation Las Vegas

Live Nation Concerts promoted Amanda Moore to lead the residency business for Live Nation Las Vegas. In her expanded role, Moore will be overseeing booking, marketing and business operations for the company’s multimillion-dollar residency business in the Vegas market.

Moore helped open the Live Nation Las Vegas office in 2015, and she has launched residencies for artists including Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez, Backstreet Boys, Aerosmith, Usher and Britney Spears.

Amanda Moore Promoted to Lead Residency Business for Live Nation Las Vegas (March 4, 2021)


NCAA to Allow Limited Fan Attendance at Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament

The NCAA will allow a limited number of fans at the 2021 Division I Men’s Basketball Championship, including all rounds and the Final Four, the organization announced Friday. The decision to allow up to 25% capacity with physical distancing was made in conjunction with state and local health authorities due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The event capacity will include all participants, essential staff and family members of each participating team’s student-athletes and coaches and a reduced number of fans.

NCAA to Allow Limited Fan Attendance at Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament (Feb. 19, 2021)


GBAC Star Service Accreditation Now Available for Cleaning Service Providers

The Global Biorisk Advisory Council, a division of ISSA, has launched the GBAC Star Service Accreditation Program for building service contractors and other outsourced cleaning service providers. The accreditation provides third-party validation of a cleaning service provider’s cleaning, disinfection, and infection prevention protocols and procedures.

GBAC Star Service Accreditation Now Available for Cleaning Service Providers (Feb. 18, 2021)


Showlight Announces Virtual Event

Following the cancellation of Showlight 2021, the lighting conference announced that a one-day Virtual Showlight will be held in its place. The live online event will take place May 25.

In a nod to the difficulty of scheduling a global virtual event, organizers noted in the release, “The time has been chosen to best accommodate USA and European delegates, the night owls further east, and (with apologies!) the sleepless in Australia and New Zealand!”

Showlight Announces Virtual Event (Feb. 8, 2021)


VenuWorks Selected to Operate ‘The Yard’; Keck Hired as General Manager

The city of Johnston, Iowa, has hired Iowa-based VenuWorks to manage The Yard in the Johnston Town Center. The central green space, scheduled to open this summer, will feature regular event programming including concerts, a splash pad, and a seasonal ice-skating rink. VenuWorks has hired Quincy Keck (above) as the general manager in Johnston.

VenuWorks Selected to Operate ‘The Yard’; Keck Hired as General Manager (Feb. 5, 2021)


New Jersey Devils Buy Black Program Now Accepting Applications From Local Black-Owned Businesses Through Feb. 2 

The New Jersey Devils announced on Monday, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, that the team will begin accepting applications for the Devils Buy Black Program as part of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment’s $20 million commitment to racial equity. All interested applicants may apply at NewJerseyDevils.com/buyblack.

Each business selected through the application process will become an official partner of the Devils for the 2020-21 season and receive marketing assets across Devils platforms. Select businesses will work alongside the Devils’ partnership activation team and have access to the brand and creative team, content team and the Devils’ digital, research and analytics teams 

New Jersey Devils Buy Black Program Now Accepting Applications From Local Black-Owned Businesses Through Feb. 2 (Jan. 18, 2021)


Legends Announces Majority Investment From Sixth Street to Accelerate Long-Term Growth

Legends on Tuesday announced that it signed an agreement to receive a majority investment from investment firm Sixth Street. Sixth Street will lead the Legends partnership group alongside co-founders YGE Holdings LLC, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, and Jones Concessions LP, an affiliate of the Dallas Cowboys.

Founded in 2008, Legends is a premium experiences company with six divisions operating worldwide: Global Planning, Global Sales, Hospitality, Global Partnerships, Global Merchandise, and Global Technology Solutions. Partners include the Yankees, the Cowboys, Real Madrid CF, SoFi Stadium, the University of Notre Dame, Ohio State University, Manchester City FC, the Los Angeles Clippers, One World Observatory and Live Nation.

Legends Announces Majority Investment From Sixth Street to Accelerate Long-Term Growth (Jan. 12, 2021)


Knitting Factory Inks Pact as Exclusive Talent Buyer for Tacoma’s Fawcett Hall

Knitting Factory Entertainment and Tacoma arts complex Alma Mater announced that the two have signed a deal for KFE’s live music unit to assume exclusive talent buying duties at the venue group’s live music venue Fawcett Hall, situated between the Central Tacoma and Hilltop neighborhoods in downtown Tacoma, Washington. The venue has a capacity of 300 seated and 500 standing.

The venue averaged 463 tickets sold and a gross of $9,686 for shows dating back 36 months, according to totals reported to Pollstar.

Knitting Factory Inks Pact as Exclusive Talent Buyer for Tacoma’s Fawcett Hall (Jan. 6, 2021)


NCAA Announces Further Details for 2021 Division I Men’s Basketball Championship

The NCAA will stage the entire 2021 men’s basketball championship in Indiana in six venues: Lucas Oil Stadium, Bankers Life Fieldhouse, Hinkle Fieldhouse and Indiana Farmers Coliseum, all in Indianapolis; Mackey Arena in West Lafayette; and Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall in Bloomington.

NCAA Announces Further Details for 2021 Division I Men’s Basketball Championship (Jan. 4, 2021)


 Lyte Raises $33 Million in Series B Funding 

Technology platform Lyte has announced $33 million in a Series B round, a combination of equity and debt, bringing its fundraising total to $48 million. Joining as first-time Lyte investors are Chamath Palihapitiya’s Social Capital, music icon Quincy Jones and Rocketship VC. In addition, Jackson Square Ventures, Accomplice, and Correlation Ventures return to fund and support the company as do Philip Deutch, Zander Lurie and digital media entrepreneur and Lyte board member Rob Goldberg. 

Lyte Raises $33 Million in Series B Funding, Validating Game-Changing Approach to Live Event Ticketing (Dec. 17, 2020)


Florida Panthers’ BB&T Center Becomes First NHL Arena to Achieve the Well Health-Safety Rating

BB&T Center, home of the Florida Panthers, has become the first NHL arena to achieve the International Well Building Institute Well Health-Safety Rating for Facility Operations and Management. The certification, which has been confirmed by a third-party verifier, Green Business Certification Inc., recognizes BB&T Center’s adherence to the IWBI’s guidelines and protocols for combatting COVID-19 and preparedness to safely accommodate fans upon reopening.

Florida Panthers’ BB&T Center Becomes First NHL Arena to Achieve the Well Health-Safety Rating (Dec. 7, 2020)


KFC Yum! Center Renews Stock Yards Bank & Trust Partnership

The Louisville Arena Authority and Stock Yards Bank & Trust Co. are extending the venue’s cornerstone partnership agreement at KFC Yum! Center through May 1, 2030, the arena announced Thursday. Stock Yards Bank has been the official banking partner of the arena, home to University of Louisville men’s and women’s basketball and women’s volleyball, since it opened in 2010. ASM Global operates the arena, which ranked No. 1 in VenuesNow’s 2020 Top Stops for Kentucky, based on ticket sales reported to Pollstar in the previous 12 months.

KFC Yum! Center Renews Stock Yards Bank & Trust Partnership (Dec. 3, 2020)


Karan Kathuria Joins Renkus-Heinz With Focus on Asia, Oceania and SAARC Regions

California-based loudspeaker manufacturer Renkus-Heinz appointed Karan Kathuria to director, operating across Asia, Oceania and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation. Kathuria will introduce Renkus-Heinz technologies to the professional AV community, including consultants, integrators and end users. Kathuria’s professional background includes engineering, sales, operations and marketing roles with organizations including Bose and Harman. His most recent position was senior sirector at Music Tribe, a position he’d held since 2015.

Karan Kathuria Joins Renkus-Heinz With Focus on Asia, Oceania and SAARC Regions (Dec. 1, 2020)


LA Clippers Announce Business Operations Promotions and New Hire

The Los Angeles Clippers have hired Alex Diaz as chief operating officer, a position from which he will oversee the operations planning of the Inglewood Basketball and Entertainment Center, the team’s future home. His previous roles include senior vice president and general manager at Madison Square Garden and similar roles with the Brooklyn Nets/Barclays Center and the Miami Heat/AmericanAirlines Arena.

LA Clippers Announce Business Operations Promotions and New Hire (Nov. 11, 2020)


13th Annual Arvest Winterfest Presented With CommunityCare Returns to Downtown Tulsa for the Holiday Season

The 13th annual Arvest Winterfest presented with CommunityCare will kick off in Tulsa, Okla., on Nov. 21, but the event will have a new twist for 2020: Rather than skating on a rink outside the BOK Center, attendees will glide around a larger rink inside the building, part of a focus that event organizers say places a heavy focus on the health and safety of guests during the novel coronavirus pandemic.

13th Annual Arvest Winterfest Presented With CommunityCare Returns to Downtown Tulsa for the Holiday Season (Nov. 9, 2020)


Pendulum’s Montreal Excitation Concept Wins RTF 2020 International Design Award

Pendulum Studio’s Montreal Excitation concept — a ballpark, practice facility and concert venue — has been awarded a Rethinking the Future Architecture, Construction and Design Awards 2020 First Award for Sports & Recreation (Concept). Pendulum’s concept is sited on the historic 1967 World’s Fair Island in Montreal.

Pendulum’s Montreal Excitation Concept Wins RTF 2020 International Design Award (Nov. 4, 2020)


New GBAC Star Facility Directory Helps Locate Facilities Accredited for Cleaning Excellence

The Global Biorisk Advisory Council, a division of ISSA, on Friday launched its GBAC Star Facility Directory. The web-based tool allows users to identify facilities that have earned or committed to achieve GBAC Star accreditation, the designation reserved for facilities that have demonstrated a thorough approach to cleaning, disinfection, and infection prevention.

The directory is a searchable listing of facilities around the world, including stadiums and arenas, convention centers, hotels, restaurants, airports and commercial facilities. Users can search by facility name, type, location or keyword.

New GBAC Star Facility Directory Helps Locate Facilities Accredited for Cleaning Excellence (Oct. 9, 2020)


Northwell Scores Community-Driven Sponsorship Deal With the New York Islanders and State-of-the-Art-Venue UBS Arena at Belmont Park

Northwell Health, New York’s largest health care provider and private employer, on Tuesday announced a 10-year founding sponsorship deal with the New York Islanders and UBS Arena, the future home of the Islanders.

The deal with UBS Arena, scheduled to open for the 2021-22 NHL season at Belmont Park, is the latest extension of a decades-long relationship between the Islanders and Northwell as the official health care sponsor for the team and title sponsor for the team’s East Meadow practice facility.

Northwell Scores Community-Driven Sponsorship Deal With the New York Islanders and State-of-the-Art-Venue UBS Arena at Belmont Park (Oct. 6, 2020)


The Mobile Locker Co. Announces Engagement With Two Top NFL Stadiums

The Mobile Locker Co. on Monday announced agreements to provide onsite storage services for two marquee NFL venues, Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Mass., and AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The venues will use The Mobile Locker Co. to help provide the safest possible environment for spectators to store belongings as fans return to live sporting events this fall. This is the first year that Mobile Locker Co. has supplied services for Gillette Stadium; it began working with AT&T Stadium last year.

The Mobile Locker Co., National Leader in Event Storage Solutions, Announces Engagement with Two Top NFL Stadiums (Oct. 5, 2020)


Penguins, Aramark Making Changes at PPG Paints Arena

The NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins and concessionaire Aramark will introduce self-checkout scanners, self-ordering kiosks and mobile ordering at PPG Paints Arena, the team announced Wednesday. The plans are intended to speed up service at concession stands as well as provide extra safety measures as the arena prepares for life after the COVID-19 shutdown. A new sports bar on the main concourse is also part of the improvements.

Penguins, Aramark Announce Renovations for PPG Paints Arena (Sept. 30, 2020)


Charleston Gaillard Center Announces CEO Succession Plan

Charles Way Jr., chairman of the Gaillard Management Corp., the nonprofit that manages the Charleston (S.C.) Gaillard Center, announced on Tuesday a nine-month succession plan for the GMC’s president and CEO, Stephen Bedard, who will retire in June.  The search for Bedard’s successor will be led by GMC board member Ted Legasey.

Charleston Gaillard Center Announces CEO Succession Plan (Sept. 29, 2020)


Charlotte’s Spectrum Center and Mobilitie Supercharge the Fan Experience with 5G Upgrade

Mobilitie, the largest privately held wireless infrastructure firm in the nation, is bringing 5G and next-generation wireless technology to the fans and visitors of Spectrum Center in Charlotte, N.C., home to the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets. With seating for more than 20,000, Spectrum Center has hosted a number of major sporting and entertainment events since opening in 2005, including NCAA basketball tournaments, the NBA All-Star Game and the 2012 Democratic National Convention.

Charlotte’s Spectrum Center and Mobilitie Supercharge the Fan Experience with 5G Upgrade (Sept. 24, 2020)


Oak View Group Expands Team at Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena

Oak View Group, the global venue development, advisory, and investment company for the sports and live entertainment industries, and the NHL’s Seattle Kraken on Tuesday announced the appointment of five executives to the team at Climate Pledge Arena, future home of the Kraken, located at Seattle Center. Joining OVG is David Curry (left) as vice president of technology, Nick Vaerewyck (second from left) as vice president of programming, Randy Foster (center) as director of event production, Damon Murray as director of engineering and Christine Spiller as senior director of event services. All will assume their new roles immediately.

Oak View Group Expands Team at Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena (Sept. 22, 2020)


Live Nation Activates Concert Venues as Polling Places and Promotes Voting Engagement Among Fans and Employees

Live Nation on Wednesday announced several initiatives to encourage civic engagement and support access to voting in the 2020 elections. These initiatives include using Live Nation-owned concert venues as polling places, providing employees with paid time off to vote, incentivizing employees to serve as poll workers, and partnering with organizations on voter access and educational efforts.

Live Nation is working with local officials to examine the feasibility of using more than 100 Live Nation venues across the country as polling places. To date, The Wiltern and Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles, Emo’s in Austin and the Buckhead Theatre in Atlanta are confirmed to serve as polling sites in their respective jurisdictions.

Live Nation Activates Concert Venues as Polling Places and Promotes Voting Engagement Among Fans and Employees (Sept. 16, 2020)


Ryman Auditorium Announces Multiyear Sponsorship With PNC Bank

Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium announced it has entered into a multiyear sponsorship agreement with PNC Bank, making PNC the official banking sponsor of the Ryman.

The sponsorship will create PNC Plaza at Ryman Auditorium, which includes a permanent outdoor stage that will offer another location for visitors to enjoy live music and other outdoor events as part of their Ryman Auditorium experience. The new stage is expected to be completed by the end of the year and will be positioned on the Fourth Avenue North side of the property.

Ryman Auditorium Announces Multiyear Sponsorship With PNC Bank (Sept. 15, 2020)


City of Charleston Enters Into New Partnership With Oak View Group Facilities to Manage Charleston Coliseum, Convention Center, and Municipal Auditorium 

In a unanimous vote, the city of Charleston, W.Va., on Tuesday approved a new partnership with Oak View Group Facilities, a global firm and specialist in providing premium services, content and streamlining venue operations for its clients, to manage, operate and schedule events for the 13,500-seat Charleston Coliseum, the 250,000-square-foot Convention Center, and the 3,400-seat Municipal Auditorium. 

Oak View Group will immediately begin overseeing and managing the day-to-day operations for all three facilities with an emphasis on generating new business opportunities for the Convention Center. (OVG also owns VenuesNow.)

City of Charleston Enters Into New Partnership With Oak View Group Facilities to Manage Charleston Coliseum, Convention Center, and Municipal Auditorium (Sept. 9, 2020)


OCVibe Engages Premier Partnerships to Identify the District’s Founding Partners

OCVibe has signed sponsorship sales and consultancy agency Premier Partnerships to assist in the evaluation and go-to-market commercial strategy for the recently announced OCVibe, a 115-acre, mixed-use, sports and live entertainment district centered on Honda Center in the heart of Orange County, Calif.

OCVibe Engages Premier Partnerships to Identify the District’s Founding Partners (Sept. 9, 2020)


International Ticketing Association Announces Digital INTIX 2021 Conference

The International Ticketing Association, known as INTIX, today announced that it will transition its annual in-person conference and exhibition to a digital-only format in January because of continuing health and safety concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic. In keeping with the industry tradition that ‘the show must go on,’ the organization will host a weeklong “INTIX Live!” digital conference Jan. 25-29, 2021. An announcement of keynote speakers and the opening of conference registrations are coming soon.

International Ticketing Association Announces Digital INTIX 2021 Conference (Sept. 2, 2020)


Massive 320-Acre Family Sports and Entertainment Complex Coming to Mesa, Arizona

Legacy Sports Park, a privately owned 320-acre multi-use family sports and entertainment complex, will be built in Mesa, Ariz., opening to the public in January 2022. The outdoor facilities will include a soccer complex that includes 21 fields, including an 8,000-seat stadium; 20 sand volleyball courts, including a 1,500-seat stadium; eight baseball/softball fields; and a 50-acre special events area for concerts and events.

A multisports building will include 60 volleyball courts and 16 basketball courts with a 6,500-seat arena; an esports arena; a gymnastics, cheer and dance center; and a sports performance center headed by Dan O’Brien, U.S. Olympic gold medalist in the decathlon.

Oak View Group will be responsible for securing a naming rights partner and founding partners for the property; attracting events to the indoor arena, an outdoor amphitheater and the festival grounds; and managing and operating Legacy Sports Park when it opens. (VenuesNow is part of OVG Media & Conferences.)

Massive 320 Acre Family Sports and Entertainment Complex Coming to Mesa, Arizona (Aug. 31, 2020)


New York Area Sports and Concert Attendees Likely to Return to Venues in Much Shorter Time Than Expected, New Riptide Partners Survey Unveils

New York-based sports and venue consulting business Riptide Partners announced its recent survey of New York-area event attendees, which revealed faster return to event timeline for consumers than has been widely discussed. “We think this survey tells a slightly different story than what was originally thought,” said Riptide co-founder Rob Comstock in a statement. “The variable of when people can return to venues in larger groups will be decided by health and government officials, but when that date is set, we believe that people will feel safer, and come back sooner, than anticipated based on the survey responses we have received.”

Riptide Partners received over 4,000 completed surveys from consumers who regularly attended sporting and entertainment events in the New York tri-state area. Of those 4,000, an overwhelming 89% said they would return to events depending on the actions taken by venue operators to ensure safety; 75% most frequently attended concerts / live events and 25% most frequently attended sporting events.

New York Area Sports and Concert Attendees Likely to Return to Venues in Much Shorter Time Than Expected, New Riptide Partners Survey Unveils (Aug. 27, 2020)


A Campus Vision: Introducing ‘Liberty Park,’ the Next Chapter in Housing for Historic Fairgrounds Property

The Mid-South Fairgrounds property in Memphis, Tenn., which includes Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium and the Children’s Museum of Memphis, has been rebranded as Liberty Park and will add a hotel, a youth sports facility and more as part of a $200 million project, the city and its tourism bureau announced.

A Campus Vision: Introducing ‘Liberty Park,’ the Next Chapter in Housing for Historic Fairgrounds Property (Aug. 13, 2020)


Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse to Serve as Polling Location for 2020 General Election on Tuesday, November 3rd

The city of Cleveland, Cuyahoga County and the board of elections in partnership with the Cleveland Cavaliers have announced that Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse will serve as a polling location for the 2020 general election Nov. 3.

Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse will also host the nonpartisan National Voter Registration Day on Sept. 22. Voters residing anywhere in Cuyahoga County will be able to register to vote at the FieldHouse that day, even if their actual voting precinct locations on Election Day are at different locations in the county.

Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse to Serve as Polling Location for 2020 General Election on Tuesday, November 3rd (Aug. 11, 2020)


Danny Wimmer Presents Names Joe Litvag President of Live Events

Independent live entertainment producer and promoter Danny Wimmer Presents announced the addition of executive Joe Litvag as its president of live events. Litvag, an industry veteran, brings over 25 years of knowledge and experience in all aspects of the live events industry. In this newly created position, Litvag will oversee the operation of DWP festivals and concerts and will lead DWP’s growth into venue management, booking, national touring, event services and more.

Litvag started his career at Contemporary Productions in St. Louis and grew into executive positions at SFX Entertainment and Clear Channel Entertainment. He next spent over 15 years as a senior executive at AEG Presents and most recently concluded a short stint as president of live entertainment at Blackbird Presents.

Danny Wimmer Presents Names Joe Litvag President Of Live Events (Aug. 10, 2020)


Grammy Museum Experience Prudential Center Announces Annual Summer Session Music Industry Program to Run Virtually Aug. 17- 21 

 Grammy Museum Experience Prudential Center has announced today the return of its annual Summer Session music industry program, which will run from Monday, Aug. 17, to Friday, Aug. 21, hosted online by Zoom. The 2020 Summer Session is a five-day virtual summer music industry program for New Jersey-area students ages 13 through 18 interested in exploring a career in music and the entertainment industry. The museum is part of Prudential Center in Newark, N.J. 

Grammy Museum Experience Prudential Center Announces Annual Summer Session Music Industry Program to Run Virtually Aug. 17- 21 (July 29, 2020)


Live-In / Drive-In Concert Series Presented by Budweiser Zero Coming to Philadelphia’s Citizens Bank Park 

Live Nation Philadelphia, in partnership with the Philadelphia Phillies, today announced plans for a four-week local drive-in concert series coming to the parking lot of Citizens Bank Park, home of the Phillies. The Live-In / Drive-In Concert Series presented by Budweiser Zero, a new alcohol-free brew from Budweiser, kicks off Aug. 16 with comedian Bert Kreischer and will continue with a variety of musical genres through Labor Day Weekend.

Other acts in the series include AJR, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, The Struts, The Front Bottoms, Mt. Joy, Subtronics, Smith & Meyers, Lotus and Dark Star Orchestra.

Live-In / Drive-In Concert Series Presented by Budweiser Zero Coming to Philadelphia’s Citizens Bank Park (July 21, 2020)


Resorts World Las Vegas Partners With AEG Presents to Created Unrivaled Theatre Experience at Las Vegas’ Newest Resort

A 5,000-capacity concert and entertainment venue, The Theatre at Resorts World Las Vegas, will open as part of Resorts World Las Vegas in summer 2021. The theater will be built to accommodate, concerts, conventions, corporate gatherings and sporting events.

The venue, a joint development between Resorts World Las Vegas and AEG Presents, will be exclusively programmed and operated by Concerts West, a division of AEG Presents.

Resorts World Las Vegas Partners With AEG Presents to Created Unrivaled Theatre Experience at Las Vegas’ Newest Resort (July 16, 2020)


Temple University’s School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management and Spectra Partner to Develop Future Industry Leaders

Temple University’s School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management announced a new agreement with international sports and live entertainment company Spectra that will provide comprehensive student fellowship and internship opportunities, create a pipeline of full-time positions with the company and offer scholarship opportunities to Spectra employees for the Executive Master of Science in Sport Business program.

Temple University’s School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management and Spectra Partner to Develop Future Industry Leaders (July 9, 2020)


Centerplate Renews Hospitality Partnership at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center

Centerplate announced today a long-term renewal for its hospitality partnership with the town of Ocean City at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, Md. The newly forged agreement comes ahead of a 30,000-square-foot expansion project at the venue that will enhance Ocean City’s ability to attract more large-scale meetings and conventions.

Centerplate Renews Hospitality Partnership at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center (July 14, 2020)


AudienceView unveils strategic innovation plan in response to disruption across the live events industry

Live events solutions provider AudienceView today unveiled a strategic innovation plan designed to efficiently introduce new solutions to the industry in response to evolving client needs and requirements.

Earlier in 2020, AudienceView announced a brand transformationthat kicked off the strategic innovation plan in earnest. Since then, the industry experienced an unprecedented shutdown that has significantly impacted the entire live events landscape, from venues to producers and artists to suppliers like AudienceView. As a result, AudienceView has accelerated elements of its strategic innovation plan to better support the industry when the lights come back on.

AudienceView unveils strategic innovation plan in response to disruption across the live events industry (July 14, 2020)


It’s Official: T‑Mobile Center to Welcome Kansas City Locals for Years to Come

T-Mobile today unveiled details for T-Mobile Center, formerly Sprint Center, reinforcing its commitment to the community of Kansas City. The deal will last through at least 2032, joining those for T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and T-Mobile Park in Seattle.

T-Mobile officially completed a merger with Sprint on April 1. The deal between the two cellular carriers was announced in April 2018.

It’s Official: T‑Mobile Center to Welcome Kansas City Locals for Years to Come (July 9, 2020)


Chybik + Kristof Architects Win Competition for Jihlava Multipurpose Arena Construction

Czech architecture and urban design practice Chybik + Kristof Architects won a competition for the construction of the Jihlava Multipurpose Arena in Jihlava, a 5,600-capacity hockey complex in the Czech Republic. The main building is an oval arena with an interior that can host hockey, exhibitions and events, and concerts.

Chybik + Kristof Architects Win Competition for Jihlava Multipurpose Arena Construction (July 8, 2020)


PLASA Show postponed to 2021 with new dates announced

The PLASA Show, focusing on entertainment technology, will not take place as planned Sept. 6-8 at Olympia London because of COVID-19 and uncertainty regarding social distancing and lockdown policies, organizers announced Friday. The show is scheduled to return to Olympia London Sept. 5-7, 2021.

PLASA Show postponed to 2021 with new dates announced (July 3, 2020)


Jonathan O’Neil Cole Acquires 100% Ownership of Pendulum Studio, LLC

As founding principal, Jonathan O’Neil Cole has served as managing member and 51% owner of Pendulum, a Kansas City-based architecture firm, since its launch in 2007.  As of July 1, 2020, Cole has acquired the remaining 49% balance of company shares and shall continue serving in his role as practice leader and CEO.

Jonathan O’Neil Cole Acquires 100% Ownership of Pendulum Studio, LLC (July 2, 2020)


Centerplate Selected as Exclusive Foodservice Partner for Virginia Beach Sports Center

Concessionaire Centerplate signed a new multiyear agreement with the new Virginia Beach Sports Center, situated across the street from the Virginia Beach Convention Center. The facility, owned by the city of Virginia Beach and managed by Eastern Sports Management, will host sporting events and tournaments when it opens in November.

Centerplate Selected as Exclusive Foodservice Partner for Virginia Beach Sports Center (June 30, 2020)


The IAVM Foundation Announces Wilhemina “Mina” Boyd, CVE, as the 2020 Legacy Award Recipient

Wilhemina “Mina” Boyd is the 2020 Legacy Award recipient, the IAVM Foundation announced Friday.

During a career of more than 30 years as a venue executive, Boyd held executive director positions at venues in Roanoke, Va.; Dallas; and Tampa, Fla., and executive positions in Kansas City, Mo., and San Antonio.

The IAVM Foundation Legacy Award is awarded to an individual or organization that has made a significant financial and/or nonfinancial contribution to benefit the mission and objectives of the IAVM Foundation, leaving a legacy for the advancement of the public assembly venue industry.

The IAVM Foundation Announces Wilhemina “Mina” Boyd, CVE, as the 2020 Legacy Award Recipient (June 26, 2020)


 IAVM Announces 2020 McElravy and Anzivino Award Recipients

Richard Haycock, former general manager of Lansdowne Park in Ottawa, Ontario, is the 2020 recipient of the Charles A. McElravy Award, the International Association of Venue Managers announced Friday. The award honors extraordinary contributions to the association and the profession of public assembly venue management over a number of years.

Bill Powell, former vice president of event marketing and sales, Southern Region, for Feld Entertainment and Motor Sports, is the recipient of the Joseph J. Anzivino Distinguished Allied Award, recognizing Allied members who have made extraordinary contributions to the sports, entertainment, convention and exhibition industry.

 IAVM Announces 2020 McElravy and Anzivino Award Recipients (June 26, 2020)


Premier Mixed-Use Community and Live Entertainment District — OCVibe — Coming to Anaheim

A $3 billion, 115-acre mixed-use community and live entertainment district named OCVibe has been announced for land surrounding Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif. The project is being led by the Samueli family, owners of the NHL’s Anaheim Ducks, the arena’s primary tenant.

The district, which is to include a new 6,000-capacity concert venue, restaurants and two hotels in addition to office and residential space, is scheduled to open in 2024 and be completed by the 2028 Olympics, when Honda Center hosts indoor volleyball.

Premier Mixed-Use Community and Live Entertainment District — ocV!BE — Coming to Anaheim (June 24, 2020)


The Orange County Convention Center Welcomes the Together Again Expo

Alliance Nationwide Exposition, in collaboration with the Orange County Convention Center, will host the Together Again Expo on July 24 in Orlando. The event is designed to provide a forum on how live events can safely move forward and get back to business as Florida enters Phase 2 of the COVID-19 recovery.

The expo will offer attendees and suppliers the opportunity to learn about new industry best practices and will provide strategies and tools on how safely and responsibly to reopen live events, conventions, and trade shows. A live stream to include an educational component will also be offered.

The Orange County Convention Center Welcomes the Together Again Expo (June 15, 2020)


Ontario Convention Center and Toyota Arena to Receive GBAC Star Accreditation

The Ontario (Calif.) Convention Center and Toyota Arena have announced their commitment to becoming safe environments to welcome guests back to the venues.  They will pursue accreditation through he Global Biorisk Advisory Council Star accreditation on outbreak prevention, response and recovery, which provides third-party validation to ensure the implementation of rigorous protocols in response to biorisk situations.

Ontario Convention Center and Toyota Arena to Receive GBAC Star Accreditation (June 9, 2020)


Patriot One Joins Los Angeles Football Club and Banc of California Stadium to Form “The Stadium & Event Safety Strategic Alliance”

Patriot One Technologies Inc., Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles Football Club and Banc of California Stadium today announced an innovative expansion of their partnership to enhance security and arena safety at Banc of California Stadium.

They will form The Stadium & Event Safety Strategic Alliance to turn Banc of California Stadium into a showcase venue for advanced safety and security technology. Christian Lau, Chief Technology Officer for LAFC and Banc of California Stadium. “Our venue in the heart of Los Angeles will become the center for new and innovative physical and health threat identification and detection technologies,” said Christian Lau, chief technology officer for LAFC and the stadium.

Patriot One Joins Los Angeles Football Club and Banc of California Stadium to Form “The Stadium & Event Safety Strategic Alliance” (June 9, 2020)


Nashville Superspeedway to host the NASCAR Cup Series in 2021

NASCAR and Dover Motorsports, Inc. have agreed to host a NASCAR Cup Series race at Nashville Superspeedway in 2021.

The 1.33-mile concrete track was built in 2001 by Dover Motorsports and hosted NASCAR- and IRL-sanctioned events from 2001 to 2011. It sits on about 1,000 acres just outside of Nashville and has 25,000 permanent grandstand seats plus lights for night racing.

Nashville Superspeedway to host the NASCAR Cup Series in 2021 (June 3, 2020)


AudienceView launches AudienceView Campus Flow to create a safer student experience in a COVID-19 impacted world

Ticketing technology company AudienceView launched AudienceView Campus Flow, a new packaged offering designed to help higher education institutions manage capacity in spaces where students congregate, enhancing safety and supporting physical distancing measures.

AudienceView launches AudienceView Campus Flow to create a safer student experience in a COVID-19 impacted world (June 2, 2020)


The 2020 Minnesota State Fair Is Canceled

“Right now is the time of year when things need to really take off if we’re going to have a fair, but we can see that we’re out of runway and can’t get off the ground. There will be no State Fair this year.” — Minnesota State Fair General Manager Jerry Hammer

The 2020 Minnesota State Fair Is Canceled (May 22, 2020)


Engine Off, Party On! As America’s Wildest Drive-In Experience, The Parking Lot Social, Announces Summer 2020 Tour

XL Event Labs, which built The Big Bounce America around what it called the world’s biggest bounce house, will send The Parking Lot Social out for multinight stands in 11 cities tour starting June 23 with a free event for local front-line medical staff in Houston. Entertainment at the invent will include “Car-A-Oke,” silent disco, live bands, interactive trivia, stand-up comedians, and food and drinks.

Audio will be transmitted from the stage to wireless headphones that will be supplied to guests. Tickets will start at $30.

Engine Off, Party On! As America’s Wildest Drive-In Experience, The Parking Lot Social, Announces Summer 2020 Tour (May 22, 2020)


VenuesNow Conference Update: New Dates

The dates for the VenuesNow Conference are shifting a few days later on the calendar, to Sept. 21-23. The event will be at The Venetian Resort in Las Vegas.

VenuesNow Conference Update: New Dates (May 21, 2020)


IAVM’s VenueConnect 2020 Is Going Virtual

The International Association of Venue Managers announced Thursday morning that it will present its annual conference, VenueConnect, in a virtual format because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

VenueConnect 2020 had been scheduled for July 26-29 in Long Beach, Calif.

VenueConnect 2020 Is Going Virtual (May 21, 2020)


North Carolina’s Major Venues Team Up to Plan for Return of Concerts, Broadway and Comedy Events

A new coalition, NC Live, will provide guidance and best practices to ensure safe reopening of North Carolina arts and entertainment venues. The group’s executive committee has representatives from Blumenthal Performing Arts in Charlotte, Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts in Raleigh, Durham Performing Arts Center, Greensboro Coliseum Complex, Live Nation Carolinas, Spectrum Center in Charlotte and Red Hat Amphitheater in Raleigh.

North Carolina’s Major Venues Team Up to Plan for Return of Concerts, Broadway and Comedy Events (May 19, 2020)


Quail Hollow Club to Host PGA Championship in 2025

Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, N.C., will host the 2025 PGA Championship, the PGA of America announced.

The course, which opened in 1961, will be playing host to its second PGA Championship. In August 2017, a 24-year-old Justin Thomas finished two shots clear of Francesco Molinari, Louis Oosthuizen and Patrick Reed to claim the initial major championship victory of his career.

Quail Hollow Club to Host PGA Championship in 2025 (May 14, 2020)


Madison Square Garden Sports Corp. Reports Fiscal 2020 Third Quarter Results

The company, formerly The Madison Square Garden Co., included the financial results of both the sports and entertainment businesses because it completed the spin-off of its entertainment businesses into a new company called Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. in April. The company reported adjusted operating income of $11.6 million, down 86% from the prior year quarter, in a reporting period dominated by the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Quail Hollow Club to Host PGA Championship in 2025 (May 14, 2020)