January 22, 2004

Don Dethlefs, President of Sink Combs Dethlefs was a featured speaker at the International Economic Development Council's 2004 "If You Build It, Will They Come?" conference held in St. Petersburg, Florida. Mr. Dethlefs presented the latest trends in sports facility design, information on how designs have changed in recent years, and strategies for sports facility revitalization projects. The session also featured what works and what has missed the mark in recent sports venue designs.

Don Dethlefs is recognized internationally as a leader in arena and sport facility design. His experience in this project type has spanned more than 25 years and has included such high profile projects as the MTS Centre in Winnipeg, the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, the Save Mart Center at Fresno State, the Schottenstein Center at the Ohio State University, and the Fargodome in North Dakota. Innovation, creativity, flexibility and cost effectiveness characterize the designs of Don Dethlefs.

IEDC is the largest membership organization serving economic developers and the economic development profession. The "If You Build It, Will They Come?" conference focuses on the development of sports facilities, as well as explores the development of performing arts centers, entertainment centers and conference and convention centers.