It was an opportunity for the community to see the many bells and whistles of the new Martha Parsons Family Athletics Complex Thursday, Sept. 28, as part of the homecoming festivities.
The $7 million facility was finished just in time to host homecoming festivities for the Mustangs, and featured recognition of the Martha Parsons family and Armstrong families for their major contributions to the project.
One of the features that activities director Matt Thede was excited to show off – the ability to turn the lights off and on at the facility from his phone.
The facility noted donor walls for all significant donors, as well as businesses that supported the construction just off the entrance.
A concession stand and Mustang Boosters store are located just off the front lobby. To the north resides the Tristan Wirfs Throwing Arena.
There are other donor recognized areas throughout the complex as well, denoting the businesses and individuals who supported this project in the area.
Superintendent Dr. Greg Batenhorst also acknowledged the impacted neighbors, who now have this facility in their back yard where an empty field had once resided. As well, Cornell College, whose property for some of their sports abuts to the complex currently.
The Howard Hahn American Legion post helped to raise the flag at Armstrong Field, one which had previously flown at First Street Community Field. The flag now flies at an area in recognition of the late Dean Borg, a longtime school board president and veteran who made Mount Vernon his home.
The evening concluded with the coronation of Mount Vernon’s Homecoming King and Queen before the powderpuff game began. Luke Stephens was named king and Audrey Tucker queen.
Ron and Bev Armstrong (with hands raised) and granddaughter Taylor Delaney are recognized on the field Thursday, Sept. 28, as the Armstrong field was dedicated.