The Sandia Casino in Albuquerque, NM, recently received a new roof system from Quickbeam Systems, manufactured by Tomcat USA. The 60'x52' roof structure with a tan canvas top was installed to permanent columns in the amphitheatre next to the casino to host concerts and festivals in the community. The main grid is constructed of 54"x31" custom truss, 54"x26" internal custom truss members, and 24" fixed triangle truss. The grid integrates with four steel towers designed by Dekker, Perich, Sabatini Architects. Tomcat also fabricated head blocks and a custom guide system for each tower using six 2-ton chain motors running in tandem.

"The Sandia Casino did not want the grid to block the view of the mountains and the casino that sits behind it, therefore it was imperative that the grid design could be easily lowered when not in use," explained Kurt Jaeckel, president of Quickbeam Systems. The system itself weighs only 18,000lb; however, after the grid is flown into position a custom rigging package is used, making it possible for the grid to be dead-hung, holding up to 38,000lb. "The system seems to be working out great and we have been really happy with its results," stated Jaeckel.

The casino held its first show April 21 with the Little River Band. Other acts scheduled for this year include ZZ Top, James Brown, Kenny Rogers, Bill Cosby, Jeff Foxworthy, the Temptations, Lorrie Morgan, Native Roots, and many more.