EVANSVILLE, IN (CelebrityAccess MediaWire) — VenuWorks's Scott Schoenike will be leaving Cedar Rapids to become the Executive Director at the under-construction New Evansville Arena in Evansville, IN. His appointment was announced earlier this morning at the Evansville Redevelopment Commission meeting.
"We are bringing the right person in Scott Schoenike to assume the responsibilities of opening this fabulous new venue in Evansville," VenuWorks president Steve Peters said in a statement. "Scott's experience in working within all facets of facility management, along with his experience in multi-purpose venues, were important factors in selecting him for the position."
Schoenike brings more than 21 years of experience in the entertainment and hospitality industry. He comes to Evansville after four years as Executive Director of the U.S. Cellular Center, Paramount Theatre and Cedar Rapids Ice Arena.
The New Evansville Arena will be major new venue in southern Indiana, designed to host basketball, hockey, concerts, exhibitions and shows for audiences as large as 11,000. Slated to open this November 2011, the $127 million project expects to host over 140 events annually and will be home court to the University of Evansville men's and women's basketball programs as well as home ice of the Evansville IceMen of the CHL.
Gene Felling will assume the duties of Executive Director of the U.S. Cellular Center/Paramount Theatre/Cedar Rapids Ice Arena while continuing in his role as VenuWorks Western Regional Vice President. Tammy Koolbeck, VenuWorks Regional Vice President will serve as the corporate liaison.
"The U.S. Cellular Center Complex including the Paramount Theatre will be undergoing construction and renovation over the next 12-18 months," said Steve Peters, VenuWorks President. "Gene will work closely with the Five Seasons Center Commission, Frew Nations and City staff during this transition period." – CelebrityAccess Staff Writers
