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City Approves Joint Operating Agreement for McMorran Arena

August 25, 2009 - International Hockey League 2 (IHL 2)
Port Huron Icehawks News Release


PORT HURON, MI - Kinney Management Group is proud to announce that they have entered into a joint-operating agreement with McMorran Civic Center Authority for McMorran Place Arena. The deal was approved unanimously on Monday by the Port Huron City Council.

The three-year deal is designed to eliminate the city of Port Huron's contribution to the civic center by the third year. It also designates that Larry Kinney, who runs KMG and also owns the Port Huron Icehawks hockey team, will make all operational decisions together with McMorran General Manager Randy Fernandez.

"We are excited for the opportunity to further expand the partnership with the board, the city and the community as we collectively strive to reduce McMorran Place's reliance upon the city's allocation and find creative ways to increase the use of the facility," said Frank Kinney, Chief Financial Officer of KMG and the Icehawks. "While this will have a positive impact on the hockey team, it is much bigger than hockey. We remain committed to enhancing the already storied legacy of McMorran Place."

The agreement calls for the creation of a pro shop and ice-sharpening service in the arena. KMG and McMorran will also create a walkway between the arena and the McMorran Lounge to connect the two facilities. Other improvements include the addition of flat screen televisions in the McMorran Lounge to enhance the fan experience during Icehawks hockey games and other events.

"We have developed a partnership that gives both entities a chance to increase revenue and decrease costs. The goal for all of us is to make McMorran Arena the jewel that it once was," McMorran General Manager Randy Fernandez said. "We have been working on this for the last few months and have developed a trust factor with Kinney Management Group."

The public is invited to an open house at McMorran Arena on Tuesday, October 6 from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. Entitled "A Taste of Good Things to Come," the event will include free food and beverages, a meet and greet with staff from KMG, McMorran and the Icehawks, and a brief program about the expansion of services at McMorran.

"We are very pleased to be partnering with McMorran, the authority, Randy Fernandez and his staff," Icehawks Vice President/Business Manager Dave Goetze said. "We can expand the entertainment offerings at McMorran and maintain the integrity and gift given by the McMorran family."

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