FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, April 21, 2008
BETHANY, USD 400 WILL BEGIN WORK ON ANDERSON FIELD
LINDSBORG, Kan.—Bethany College and USD 400 have decided to move forward with planned improvements for Anderson Field and Stadium, although approximately $150,000 still needs to be raised.
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| Anderson Field and Stadium |
The renovation plans, with an overall budget in the range of $1.2 million, were announced in March. Field improvements will include a multi-purpose turf field and a new, widened track to accommodate a 120 yard by 70 yard soccer field. Planned stadium renovations include work on the visitors’ bleachers, stadium restrooms, press box and scoreboard.
Work on the project is anticipated to begin May 19.
“I remain optimistic that as word spreads of what we are trying to accomplish, more donors will step up to assist. Over 150 donors have invested to date, and for that we are most grateful; but we are still in need of several major gifts to be able to complete phase one of this project in summer 2008,"said Bethany College President Edward F. Leonard III.
Two estate gifts of $350,000 each have been pledged to the project. USD 400 has committed $200,000.Bethany College’s athletic association so far has raised more than $264,000, and additional fundraising efforts will continue.
“We still have some fundraising efforts that must take place within the next six weeks, but I believe more supporters of the project will step up to the plate and make this thing happen,” said Smoky Valley Superintendent of Schools Glenn Suppes. “This project will have an enormous impact on our community; every citizen of Lindsborg and the Smoky Valley will be positively influenced. The complex renovation means growth: growth for the college, community, school district and local businesses.”
Renovations at Philip Anderson Field are scheduled to be completed in time for the fall sports season, during which the field hosts up to four football games a week. With the new field, Bethany College soccer teams also will be able to compete in the stadium. Student-athletes from Bethany College, Smoky Valley High School and Lindsborg Middle School, as well as local community members, use the track and field year-round.
To learn more about how to contribute, please contact TedKessinger at tkessinger@cox.net or 785-227-2107. Or, call the Bethany College Athletic Department at 785-227-3380, ext. 8184.
Bethany College, established by Swedish Lutheran immigrants in 1881, is a college of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America. The mission of Bethany College is to nurture and challenge individuals in their search for truth and meaning as they lead lives of faith, learning and service. Bethany College is on the Web at www.bethanylb.edu.
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