Big Things Happening at Gable Field - May 22

TAHLEQUAH Field of Dreams. Nearly three years in the making, renovations to Northeastern State Universitys Gable Field at Doc Wadley Stadium will kick off Saturday, May 22, with an official groundbreaking ceremony led by leaders from Northeastern, Tahlequah public schools, and the Tahlequah community.

The stadium groundbreaking is another chapter in the outstanding and unique partnership between Tahlequah Public Schools, the University, and the city of Tahlequah, said NSU President Dr. Larry Williams. We are extremely proud and appreciative of the overwhelming vote of confidence and financial investment the citizens of Tahlequah have made in the future of these educational institutions and the economic future of our city.

The celebration will feature highlights about upcoming renovations including the official announcement of the stadium architects, artist renditions of the new field design,and details about plans for the future. Tahlequah Band Boosters will host a breakfast fundraiser at the stadium beginning at 9 a.m. Community members are invited to bring a shovel and join the celebration as the University breaks ground for renovations at 10 a.m. on Gable Field. Individuals who wish to participate will be invited on to the field where they can join the actual groundbreaking (shovels not provided).

Two-Phase Plan. Renovations to the stadium will be completed in two phases, the first to include replacement of the field and walking track surfaces as well as the scoreboard. Phase two of the process begins after football season ends in 2004 and will address renovations to the home and visitors areas of the stadium. A five-person oversight committee consisting of the mayor, school superintendent, university president, and two local citizens will guarantee that the money collected will be spent wisely, properly, and for only the purposes intended.

Taxing Questions. Initially approved by voters in 2001, the half-cent city sales tax went into effect in January 2002 and continued for 22 months until the full amount was collected. The election was later ruled invalid by the state Court of Civil Appeals. Tahlequah city voters overwhelmingly approved a special sales tax question on the March 9, 2004 ballot, thus releasing the $2 million originally collected for improvements and renovations at Northeasterns Gable Field at Doc Wadley Stadium.

According to Williams, the voters initial commitment in 2001 has generated enormous interest from private investors wanting to be involved in the improvements to the facility.