Global Spectrum appointed to manage
URI Convocation Center

KINGSTON, R.I. -- March 28, 2000 -- Global Spectrum, a worldwide facility and events management firm based in Philadelphia, has been named the facility manager for the University of Rhode Island Convocation Center and its separate ice facility. Global Spectrum is one of the largest facility management companies in the nation and the only one to specialize in mid-sized facilities.

As the facility manager, Global Spectrum will oversee the entire operation of the URI Convocation Center and the Ice Facility. The firm will hire and train staff, book events, and handle ticketing for basketball.

Global Spectrum's parent company is Comcast-Spectacor, the organization well known as the owner and operator of the Philadelphia Flyers (National Hockey League) and the Philadelphia 76ers (National Basketball Association), among others.

"The expertise that has helped the First Union Center and First Union Spectrum complex in Philadelphia become among the most successful in the country is the kind of rich experience that Global Spectrum brings with it to the University's Convocation Center," said Robert M. Beagle, vice president of URI's Division of University Advancement, the division leading the fundraising drive that includes naming rights and other marketing opportunities.

"The University will benefit from Global Spectrum's proven experience in managing this type of facility and their solid network of resources, including leads for naming opportunities, promoters, and performers, " added Beagle.

The firm already has assembled a team of specialists, including Front Row Marketing, which will manage the corporate sponsorships and naming rights for the Convocation Center; Fun League Group, operators of ice skating facilities, to advise on the planning and operation of the ice facility; and Landes Lombardi Associates, Inc., which will be engaged in advertising activities.

Currently Global Spectrum manages the following facilities: Comcast-Spectacor's First Union Center and First Union Spectrum, Philadelphia, Penn.; Whittemore Center Arena at the University of New Hampshire, Durham, N.H.; the Pueblo Convention Center, Pueblo, Colo.; Colorado Springs World Arena, Colorado Springs, Colo.; the Sovereign Bank Arena, Trenton, N.J.; the Harborview Convention Center in Clearwater, Fla; and the James L. Knight International Center, Miami, Fla.

The $54 million Convocation Center project is the largest building endeavor ever at URI. The Convocation Center will host major University events, such as convocation ceremonies, basketball games and other athletic contests, alumni events, concerts and major cultural events. The overall project includes a separate $12 million ice skating facility.

Actual construction for the Convocation Center is expected to commence in fall 2000 to accommodate the URI athletics event schedule for this summer. Utility relocation will begin after June 5, following the Rhode Island Special Olympics, which URI hosts each year at Meade Stadium and accompanying athletics facilities. Demolition of the football stands will take place after July 3, following the Snickers Soccer Tournament. Interior demolition and prep work may start prior to July 3, since it can be completed without disrupting scheduled activities.

Groundbreaking ceremonies for the Convocation Center are expected to be held in the fall 2000. The Convocation Center will open its doors for its first event in fall 2002.

For More Information: Linda Acciardo or Jhodi Redlich, 401-874-2116