DECC’s new arena to be named AMSOIL Arena
Article Reprinted From PDF File From http://arena.decc.org/
Thanks to the generosity of a locally-based national corporation, the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center’s addition won’t simply be called “the new arena” when it opens this December. It will be called AMSOIL Arena.
On May 11, 2010 the DECC Board approved awarding naming rights for the new facility to AMSOIL INC., a world leading manufacturer of synthetic lubricants and a major Twin Ports employer.
“Throughout the planning and construction process, the DECC Board has always sought ways to make this great new arena even greater for residents of the entire region,” said Mark Emmel, the DECC’s board chair. “One important way of doing that is through a naming rights agreement, and we wanted to team up with a company that’s local, has a reach far beyond this area, and has a reputation for excellence. AMSOIL not only met but greatly exceeded all of those criteria, and we’re looking forward to an exciting, long term relationship with them.”
Albert J. Amatuzio, AMSOIL’s founder, president and CEO, said a partnership with the DECC is a perfect fit.
“Although AMSOIL produces products that are used throughout the world, the vast majority of our employees live and work right here in the Twin Ports. This is our home,” said Amatuzio. “We’re honored to be associated with a facility that is so critical to the community’s economy and image.
AMSOIL Executive Vice Presidents Alan Amatuzio and Dean Alexander echoed that sentiment. “We have worked closely with the DECC for many years and have established a great relationship,” said Alan Amatuzio. “I think both sides of this partnership realized from the start that this was a good opportunity for everyone, and that includes the entire region.”
“We’re proud to be involved,” said Alexander. “We’ve had many opportunities throughout the years to relocate the company but have chosen to stay here. We’re committed to the area, and our decision to step up and do this deal reflects that commitment.”
The agreement calls for the DECC to receive $6 million over a 20 year term. One way AMSOIL’s investment will enhance AMSOIL Arena is that it will provide funding that allows the arena to achieve the LEED Gold Standard, making AMSOIL Arena only the second in the nation with this important designation for environmental responsibility. AMSOIL’s funding will also allow the DECC to update AMSOIL Arena as upgrades are needed in coming years.
“Often when facilities such as this open, everything is perfect at the beginning but funds are not available when updates are needed,” said Emmel. “AMSOIL’s investment will ensure that the DECC will be able to make upgrades as things age and wear out, without needing to put that financial burden on Duluth taxpayers.”
The mayors of Duluth and Superior joined in embracing the naming rights agreement with AMSOIL. “AMSOIL joins an impressive list of corporate citizens whose financial commitment has enhanced public facilities in Minnesota, including TCF for the University of Minnesota’s new football stadium and Target for the Twins’ new ballpark,” said Duluth Mayor Don Ness. “Duluth taxpayers just received a $6 million gift from AMSOIL, and we want them to know how much the community appreciates their generosity.”
Superior Mayor Dave Ross, whose city has been home to AMSOIL’s facilities since 1972, said: “Al Amatuzio has been one of Superior’s greatest ambassadors for decades, bringing worldwide attention to this community through his innovation and commitment. In the coming years, when there’s news coverage of everyone from major entertainers to U.S. presidents visiting AMSOIL Arena, the world will once again be reminded that one of the country’s finest manufacturers is located here.”
AMSOIL INC. was founded in 1972 by Al Amatuzio, with his introduction of the world’s first
synthetic motor oil for automotive engines. AMSOIL also introduced the first synthetic racing oil, diesel oil, marine oil and two-cycle oil. Today, AMSOIL is an industry leader. It manufactures an extensive line of synthetic lubricants for virtually all automotive, commercial, power sports and industrial applications. The company operates 14 distribution centers throughout North America and Puerto Rico, and AMSOIL products are sold worldwide.
AMSOIL Arena will officially open on December 30, 2010, with a men’s hockey game between UMD and North Dakota. The arena will seat 6,600 for hockey games and more than 8,500 for concerts.
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