LEC turns into Laredo Energy Arena (original) (raw)

(This article originally ran in the Thursday, March 18, 2010 Edition of Laredo Morning Times.)

Laredo Energy finalized its three-year, $1.24 million naming rights deal with City of Laredo officials Wednesday, formally changing Laredo Entertainment Center’s name to Laredo Energy Arena.

Laredo Energy CEO Glenn Hart, City Manager Carlos Villarreal and Bucks President Terry Ruskowski signed official contracts in front of fans, city officials and local business leaders inside the arena at the signing event.

“I can tell you this is probably as exciting for me as the day this place opened,” said Hart, who also owns the Bucks.

Article continues below this ad

“I have a deep love for this building and for the Laredo Bucks and for Laredo as a city and the surrounding areas.

“There is literally not a day that I don’t come to Laredo that I’m not wearing dual hats as CEO of Laredo Energy and owner of the Laredo Bucks,” he said.

Villarreal said the city is on the verge of entering another era as a new baseball park will be built near Laredo Energy Arena.

“When you talk about good corporate partners, you can talk about Glenn Hart because he has his heart in the right place,” he said.

Article continues below this ad

“He’s an individual you can count on.”

Laredo Mayor Raul Salinas said the city “has been waiting for the right corporate partner to come together with this city.

Today, that’s happened with Laredo Energy.

They’ve demonstrated local, strong support for Laredo.”

Article continues below this ad

Ruskowski, who also serves as general manager and head coach of the Bucks, said Hart’s actions show “it’s about stabilization, knowing that we’re going to be here not for a short time but for a long time.”

“With Glenn Hart and his company stepping up to the plate and putting the naming rights on the facility, it shows we’re here for a long time and we’re going to be a part of the community for a long time.”

Ruskowski, who has been the Bucks’ head coach since the team’s inception, said he’s going to be discussing additional community outreach efforts with Bucks organization leaders this summer.

In his remarks, Hart thanked Laredo Energy’s board of directors for their approval.

Article continues below this ad

“I am not sole owner of Laredo Energy,” he said.

“I have 22 shareholders and my board of directors had to approve this deal.

I feel like we’re corporate citizens here in Laredo.

My intent is for the Bucks to stay here as long as I am around.”

Article continues below this ad

(Joe Rutland may be reached at 728-2529 or jrutland@lmtonline.com)

March 21, 2010

JOE RUTLANDLAREDO MORNING TIMES