WMU declines Wings Stadium offer
July 12, 2000
KALAMAZOO -- Western Michigan University officials announced today that the University would not be accepting the transfer of the Wings Stadium complex to WMU.
On April 21, the University and the owners of the stadium, Ted and Martha Parfet of Kalamazoo, announced that they were in negotiations to transfer the stadium complex to the University. Since then, WMU officials have been conducting "due diligence" with regard to the operating expenses, contracts and other matters pertaining to the management of the facility. As a result of this exhaustive analysis, the University has determined that it cannot assume ownership of the facility.
"While we are disappointed with Western's decision not to integrate the stadium complex into its programs of education and community service, we know the University did a thorough review before arriving at its decision," Ted Parfet said in response to the news.
The Wings Stadium owner went on to express his assurances to the community that, now that this decision has been reached, the stadium complex will continue to operate under the Parfets' ownership, serving the recreational and entertainment needs of greater Kalamazoo.
"I want to thank Ted and Martha Parfet for their generosity in offering Wings Stadium to the University," said WMU President Elson S. Floyd. "While we share the Parfets' vision of having this facility remain a community asset, we regret we cannot dedicate the necessary resources from the University to operate this facility in the best interests of both our students and the community."
Media contact: Matt Kurz, 616 387-8400, matt.kurz@wmich.edu