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VenuWorks Revives Forum

VenuWorks, Inc. has added the first California arena to its portfolio, The Forum in Inglewood, which is a suburb of Los Angeles. A Memo of Understanding has been signed between Forum Enterprises Inc. and the Cedar Rapids, Iowa-based venue management and a five-year management contract is expected to be signed.

“We are delighted to be working with FEI ( Forum Enterprises Inc.) in a coordinated effort to revive programming at this venerable, iconic arena,” said Steven Peters, President, VenuWorks. “The history of modern music, of popular entertainment, of sports in America, was written at The Forum. We hope to continue to add to that history for many years to come.”

The Forum opened in 1968, served as the original home for the NBA Lakers and NHL Kings and for a period of about 15 years was known as the Great Western Forum. The venue has long been a popular concert stage, a favorite of Southern California audiences. The Forum can seat up to 17,800 and will accommodate half-house, theatre style, end stage as well as many other seating configurations. The arena is adjacent to Hollywood Park, which is currently undergoing a multi-million dollar development that will include retail stores, movie theatres, parks, and residential neighborhoods.

The news of The Forum/VenuWorks agreement was accompanied by an additional announcement that Gene Felling will assume duties as General Manager. He will also serve as VenuWorks Western Regional Vice President. Felling began his career in facility management at The Great Western Forum—the original name of this California facility—and he served as General Manager from 2005-07. He has also held positions with Universal Concerts, Kroenke Sports, Clear Channel Entertainment, SMG and Broomfield Sports and Entertainment.

“Gene has a history in The Forum over many years and he shares our passion for maintaining the building as the icon that it is in Los Angeles,” said Marc T. Little, Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel, Forum Enterprises, Inc. “We have very fond memories of Gene’s leadership at The Forum. The Forum is thrilled to announce the return of its former General Manager.”

“I am excited to be returning to The Forum and working with Steve Peters and the VenuWorks team,” said Felling. “I am looking forward to hosting many great events from all of my friends at AEG Live, Live Nation, Nederlander Concerts, Feld Entertainment and many others. The Forum is a great arena with many more years of great entertainment.”

Besides booking the arena, VenuWorks will be responsible for selling sponsorships and advertising. VenuWorks will continue to work with local service providers currently doing business at The Forum including Ticketmaster, Aramark, L.A. Stagecall and Contemporary Services Corporation.

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