The 2015 Arena Management Conference features a full schedule of great sessions and amazing networking—with some amazing people working backstage to make it all happen. In addition to their full-time jobs, our rock star committee members volunteer their time to collaborate with staff on session topics, speakers, and networking events that help build a one-of-a-kind experience for every attendee.
So, while you’re enjoying the amazing view from the 360 rooftop bar at the AMC host hotel, here are a few people to connect with that helped bring it all together:
Lynda Reinhart
Chair, 2015-2016 AMC Committee
Director, Stephen C. O’Connell Center
Lynda, you took the lead as Chair of the AMC 2015 programming committee—why did you do it?
I have been active in IAVM and various conference programming for many years, and take pride in creating meaningful educational opportunities to further the growth of professionals in this industry.
What stands out this year at AMC?
There are so many great things in the program that it’s hard to pick just one. The opening and closing keynotes should be fantastic and we’ve got some really great networking events scheduled.
If you were giving the keynote presentation, what would be your walk-up song?
What’s the topic of the presentation? (I know, I’m difficult!) While the topic would ultimately determine my choice, I’ll go with “All Star” by Smashmouth.
Andrew Prince
Executive Vice President, Venue Coalition
Andrew, what’s your AMC elevator pitch?
A great event to meet like-minded arena managers and an opportunity to get up to speed on the latest and greatest in the arena business.
Anything you’re specifically looking forward to?
Since I wake up everyday motivated to book events in arenas, my top-two panels would be the music and non-music agent/promoter panels.
Why did you serve on the committee this year?
IAVM is a great organization that supports an industry I love; the least I can do is pay it forward.
If you were giving the keynote presentation, what would be your walk-up song?
“Simple Man” — Lynyrd Skynyrd.
Glenn Walinski, CFE
Facility Manager, Tyson Events Center/Gateway Arena
Glenn, what do you look forward to at AMC?
Seeing old friends and making new ones.
How do you describe the conference?
AMC is the best conference for talking directly to managers of arenas of all sizes from around the country/world. You can interact with managers of all levels, and everyone shares information.
Why did you help plan AMC 2015?
I want to give back a little to an industry that has given me so much over the past 25 years, and I want the new managers in the industry to get as much education and information as possible to tack back home to their facilities.
If you were giving the keynote presentation, what would be your walk-up song?
The theme to Star Wars.
Matt Gibson, CFE
General Manager, Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena
What are you most looking forward to at AMC 2015?
I was promised that I could throw out the first pitch at the Cards game. That’s still happening, right?
Um, well, in case that falls through… anything else?
“The Show MUST Go On!” session of course! How can you turn away from a panel full of stories of chaos and carnage?!?
What is AMC all about for you?
It is THE annual event where a venue manager can network, talk shop, secure progressive ideas and let loose with friends and colleagues. DON’T. MISS. IT.
If you were giving the keynote presentation, what would be your intro song?
“Enter Sandman” – Metallica.
Josh Small
Director, USC Aiken Convocation Center/Global Spectrum
What’s at the top of your AMC itinerary?
The opening reception at Anheuser-Busch! The promoter/agent panel is also always entertaining and informative.
Why did you help on the AMC committee this year?
I wanted to find a way to give back to an organization that has provided several opportunities to myself and others.
Your keynote walkup song?
“Rollercoaster” —Bleachers.
Jeff Davis, CMP
General Manager, College Park Center – UT Arlington
What is AMC?
It is THE “can’t miss” conference for anyone in the arena industry, with a great balance of education, industry hot topics and networking.
Any specific can’t miss moments for you?
All of it??? Ok, if I had to narrow to one session… I’m most looking forward to the Food & Beverage session discussing new EMV chip technology for POS terminals. It’s something we’re looking at right now in our operations, both F&B and Box Office, so very timely.
What song would play before your big presentation?
Easy…. Jimmy Buffett’s “Margaritaville.”
Maybe that says too much about the industry… or barely scratches the surface, depending on the time of day. But it fits my laid back personality. And when it comes to work, one thing I know is that I enjoy creating experiences and memories for fans that walk through the doors. It’s rare I get the opportunity to be the “fan”… to fully enjoy the experience for myself… except when Jimmy comes to town.
Todd Hunt, CFE
Director, BancorpSouth Arena
Given your skills on a kit, let’s start with the walk-up music you would play if you were giving the keynote?
“Unchained” —Van Halen.
Why AMC?
AMC is the premier conference for arena personnel. Not only can you pick up tips on how to better manage your venue, you can also come home with content via the agent/promoter sessions.
Anything specific that you’re looking forward to this year?
Reconnecting with old friends and checking out the ballpark!
You’ve helped build AMC, and you now serve on the IAVM Board of Directors as the Arenas Director. Why?
My good friend Terry Butler convinced me that I needed to give back to the association by getting involved. As usual, his advice was spot on!
To the entire AMC 2015 crew: Thank you for your passion and creativity, and we can’t wait to experience the conference you helped build. To everyone else, check out the AMC schedule, register, book your hotel, and see you at the rooftop bar.
