Since opening in 1970, the Bloomington Ice Garden has had four managers who helped guide the facility through more than five decades of change. The first was Denny May, who started work one month before the arena opened. Known for his steady presence and passion for hockey, he led the facility for more than 30 years and built lasting relationships with skaters, staff and visitors.
After May retired in 2006, Andy Baltgalvis stepped into the role. He began working at the Ice Garden in 1971 and spent more than four decades supporting tournaments, events and daily operations. His long service made him one of the City of Bloomington’s most tenured employees.
After years of working in several roles at the arena, Bob Carr followed as manager in 2016 when Baltgalvis retired. Carr guided the facility through upgrades and major events until his retirement in 2021.
The current manager, Lenny Schmitz started at BIG in 2021, bringing a background in parks and recreation and a commitment to continuing the Ice Garden’s long tradition of community service.
