ROCKFORD, IL (CelebrityAccess MediaWire) — Rockford Area Venues and Entertainment Authority (RAVE) has approved a five year management contract with SMG for the Rockford MetroCentre, the Rockford IceHogs, the American Hockey League affiliate of the Stanley Cup Champion Chicago Blackhawks, and Davis Park, a downtown park, amphitheatre and festival grounds..
The 8,000 MetroCentre Arena first opened in 1981 and underwent a $23 million rehab.
SMG will also provide consulting services to the recently renovated, 2,309-seat Coronado Performing Arts Center, one of the nation's few remaining atmospheric theatres. Additionally, SMG will immediately begin discussions with Rockford's On the Waterfront organization to determine the best strategy for cooperation and collaboration for future festivals.
During the Board meeting, RAVE also voted to approve Gordon Kaye as Executive Director/General Manager to oversee the MetroCentre, the IceHogs and Davis Park. Kaye is in his sixth year as general manager of the Reading (PA) Royals Professional Hockey Club and also serves as the team's governor. He was suggested by SMG to manage the activities in Rockford including bookings, food and beverage operations, marketing, and advertising and sponsorship sales. Kaye, who has been with SMG for seven years, will begin his new role immediately. – CelebrityAccess Staff Writers
