A Lifelong Maple Stands for Music Education

Dane Nelson has played an important role in two Maples Stadium concession stands.

“My father was the Adrian Athletic Director and designed the stadium,” Dane told us. “He was also a carpenter in the summer and often built bleachers and accessory buildings for the Adrian athletic fields. He needed some help when he was building the concession stand and I was it.”

It took only a couple weeks to build, Dane recalled, but he and his dad must have done a pretty good job on that stand; it lasted about 50 years. It was taken down after the 2016 football season.

Now, in its place – at the south end of the field – is a brand new facility. And Dane had a lot to do with its construction as well. He chaired a focus group to determine the best location and develop the design of the concession area, restrooms and ticketing booths. He attended several meetings and worked out details with the design engineer. He also helped to raise private funds for the plans and supported the millage effort by speaking at service clubs and other groups.

“I'm just really happy that the Music Boosters are satisfied. I appreciate your early funding help that got the planning phase off the ground.”

Thank you, Dane, for all you did on both concession stands and for contributing to the cause of music education.

(Photo credit: Lad Strayer)