Baker & Daniels' Suite at Lucas Oil Stadium Draws High Marks

The Indianapolis Colts occupy Lucas Oil Stadium about 10 days a year, but it's what happens those other 355 days that could determine the success of the stadium, according to the Indianapolis Star in its story, "Lucas Oil Stadium Has Shown Success in Bookings."

So far, expects say, the signs are good, despite some growing pains and a tough economy, according to the story. Already busier than the RCA Dome was in its final full year of activities, Lucas Oil Stadium was booked with monster truck jams, big and small conventions, and the occasional office party for 155 of its first 320 days in operation, the Indianapolis Star reported.

In its first year, Lucas Oil has seen events ranging from a meeting of 12 young lawyers in November to the NCAA men's basketball regional in March, which drew more than 67,000 fans, according to the story. In between, the Indianapolis Star reported, were a blood drive, staff retreats for a local hospital, the Park Tudor family fun fest, corporate dinner parties, a bourbon tasting event by Jim Beam and at least one Sweet 16 birthday party.

"We had our company holiday party in the Baker & Daniels suite, and it was great," Kristin Scharnowske told the Indianapolis Star. She is marketing director for real estate company Colliers Turley Martin Tucker, which entertained about 300 employees and spouses Dec. 12.

The largest holiday party was the Colts Kids Club Halloween event which attracted 4,019 people on Oct. 28, the story reported. The top nonsports event was the Bands of America from Nov. 12-15 with a crowd of 59,382.