Tuesday, February 5, 2013

SMG Latin America Closes Deal for New Multipurpose Arena and Performing Arts Center in Puerto Rico

SMG Latin America has closed a management deal with the City of Humacao in Puerto Rico to operate its new Multipurpose Arena and Performing Arts Center. The deal was finalized by Humacao Mayor Marcelo Trujillo Panisse and SMG Latin America on Thursday, January 24, 2013.

“Puerto Rico is a growing destination for the entertainment industry with the perfect combination of excellent facilities, beautiful beaches, and Caribbean flavors,” said Wes Westley, President and CEO of SMG. “These facilities will give a new boost to the east region of the Island. We are honored to continue our facility management relationship with Puerto Rico.”

“The opportunity to continue managing new entertainment facilities in Puerto Rico demonstrates that our reputation precedes us,” said Jochi Dávila, Regional Vice President for SMG Latin America. “SMG's operational plan will contribute to the City of Humacao and the economic activity of the region with the creation of more than 30 permanent full time and part time jobs and approximately 150 indirect part time positions per event on a yearly basis,” he added.

Beginning in February 2013, SMG will start managing both facilities, providing services such as sponsorship and VIP sales, food and beverage, box office and facility maintenance operations, among others. SMG will also manage the booking event calendar for the facilities.

“These facilities will add new horizons and opportunities for the people in the Humacao area,” said Eduardo Cajina, General Manager of both facilities for SMG. “We are proud to be given the opportunity to convert these venues into world-class facilities,” he added.

SMG is expecting approximately 90 events per year between both facilities. Those events will include concerts, graduations, family events, meetings, sports events, plays, and corporate events. The variety of events that will be held at these facilities will bring a new style of entertainment to the east region of Puerto Rico.

“We will be creating unforgettable experiences for all patrons who visit us,” concluded Cajina.

The Performing Arts Center can accommodate up to 1,000 persons and the Multipurpose Arena up to 8,000.

Monday, February 4, 2013

Times Union Center Going Red For The Month of February, American Heart Month!

Friday, Feb. 1 is National Wear Red Day, the day the American Heart Association has designated as a day for everyone to wear red to remind people that heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women in America.

On Thursday, January 31st, Times Union Center Announced that they would be lighting the building red for the entire month of February to show their support of the American Heart Association and the fight against heart disease.

“We lose too many people to heart disease each year, and many people don't realize that heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women in America,” McCoy said. “In addition to lighting the building red, we will have heart-healthy messages in the arena during events. I hope everyone uses February as an opportunity to see their doctor about their heart health.”

“The Go Red movement is about educating women about their risk factors for heart disease,” said Maria Decker, member of the Capital Region Advisory Board of the American Heart Association and chair of the 2013 Captial Region Go Red for Women Luncheon. “Women put off everything to take care of everyone else, but all these buildings that are red are a good reminder to put their heart health first. We are grateful to have so much support for our mission here in the Capital Region.”

"Heart Disease is the # 1 killer of women in America, and I couldn't be more proud to participate in this movement," Said SMG Regional General Manager Bob Belber. "Times Union Center will be shining red for the entire month of February and we hope that other companies turn their buildings red in support of the cause."