Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre
April 30, 2025

Press Release - 4/22/2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE



Ramona Bowl Appoints Charles Ford Champion II as Interim CEO, Partners with Paladin 360 LLC for Strategic Growth




HEMET, CA – April 22, 2025 – The Ramona Bowl Association today announced the appointment of Charles Ford Champion II, Managing Partner of Paladin 360, as its Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Mr. Champion brings extensive experience in turnaround situations and strategic scaling, demonstrated in prior C-Level roles at ProElite Inc. and Youbet.Com Inc., where he significantly increased enterprise value. His background also includes leadership positions at major media companies like the Chicago Sun-Times Co.


Joining him is the Paladin 360 team, including Operating Partner Gary Sproule, a C-Level executive with a strong record in financial and operational improvements. His experience includes growing cash flow at Mobile Messenger and Youbet.Com Inc., along with leadership roles at Disney Interactive Studios, WhatsHotNow.com, 76 Products, and UNOCAL, where he scaled businesses and enhanced market values.


Mr. Sproule is leading the development of a five-year strategic plan with the Ramona Bowl Board of Directors, encompassing a multi-year capital program, incorporating a comprehensive audience development campaign, and diversifying the event programming.   


"We are incredibly excited to welcome the team from Paladin 360 to help chart the next chapter for the Ramona Bowl," said Joe Grindstaff, Board President. "Chuck's financial leadership and Gary's strategic vision are invaluable as we pursue our goals for the future."


This partnership with Paladin 360 underscores the Ramona Bowl’s commitment to long-term sustainability and growth. Their combined expertise will be crucial in realizing a more dynamic Ramona Bowl experience.


About the Ramona Bowl: The Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre in Hemet, CA, is a historic outdoor venue famous for the annual Ramona Pageant. For over a century, it has been a significant cultural landmark representing the longest running outdoor drama in the nation and California’s official outdoor play.


About Paladin 360: Paladin 360 is a strategic management and consulting firm focused on creating sustainable value through strategic growth, financial improvement, and operational excellence across diverse sectors.


Contact:

Nancy Bradshaw, Chief Marketing Officer

nbradshaw@paladin360.com

(951) 665-8405


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By Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre October 20, 2025
We are absolutely thrilled to announce the successful completion of a major improvement project: the resurfacing and repair of the lower section of the Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre parking lot , adjacent to the Little Theatre. This is more than just new asphalt; it's a huge step forward in improving accessibility and safety for everyone who visits our historic venue. We know how much this was needed, and seeing it finished is a massive win for the entire community. A True Team Victory Seeing this project finalized is a testament to the dedication of the Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre Board of Directors and our incredible community partners. This was a challenging task, and the credit for seeing it through belongs squarely to them. We owe our deepest thanks to several key individuals and organizations who made this possible: Lori VanArsdale , whose guidance and persistent efforts were essential. The Gosch Family , for their unmeasurable and unwavering support of the Ramona Bowl and the Hemet community. Al Cordova , for his crucial contributions to getting the work done. Board President Joe Grindstaff and Ramona Bowl acting CEO Chuck Champion also provided the crucial momentum needed to bring this long-standing priority to completion. As President Grindstaff noted, “This project has been a priority for the Board for many years, and seeing it completed is a major milestone for the future of the Bowl. The new lower lot surface drastically improves the experience for our visitors.” We are simply thrilled to have this area ready for use! Whether you're joining us for our upcoming spooky fun or preparing for the next season of Ramona, you can count on a smoother, safer arrival. Thank you to everyone who supports the Ramona Bowl. Your continued enthusiasm allows us to preserve this landmark and keep improving the visitor experience!
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