From the sidelines
Before I even saw the completion of the new Marion-Florence USD 408 performing arts center, I knew I would write about it in this space.
Living just about 200 feet from the building, I've seen it go from a pile of dirt, to a nearly completed piece of work.
And what a piece of work it is.
As I walked in Monday I could have told you it was new with my eyes closed.
The smell of the carpet jumped out at me like the sound of the band-rehearsing high school students.
I might not have a good ear for music, but it was obvious the sound system in the building wasn't, let's just say, 50 years old.
The stadium-style seating of the plush, blue seats give more of a grand theatre feel than a high school auditorium.
Marion High School band director Adam Johnson could be heard clear as day from the top seat, even with his back to the audience.
It made me hope he doesn't have a slip of the tongue during a performance, even if it's a whisper.
USD 408 students, community members, and board of education members shared in marveling at the building that will be home to plays, musicals, concerts, and more, hopefully for a long time coming.
I'm sure it feels like an early Christmas for those involved in any way with the building. It wasn't an easy process from start to finish, but now it's here and ready for the community to share.
While not everyone voted for the project that also includes an indoor pool and gymnasium, it would be hard for anyone to argue this building is not only nice, but will benefit the students and community ten-fold.
MHS choir director Kevin Moler will move his office into the building, something I'm sure he is doing half-heartily.
Wink, wink.
The band now can practice by itself in the band room, and Mr. Moler and his choir students will have a room of their own.
Musical and play cast members will have dressing rooms, and a stage fit for the talent produced by them.
The city auditorium provided countless memories, but now it's time for the new performing arts center to make some new ones.
USD 408: Congrats!
Now it's time to shift the focus to the pool and gymnasium.
