The last few I’s are being dotted and t’s are being crossed as engineers, architects and head executives of Machado and Patano come to East Church Street to punch list the new Charger Stadium. If everything checks off, Head Coach Dillon Mitchell and the administration of the Choctaw County School District will receive the keys to the stadium. David Calvert said the construction company is now going over the last few things on their checklist before final inspection which took place during press time on Tuesday, July 16. Calvert said the band bleachers will be added, pressure washing the bleachers where construction workers have tracked red mud and staining the concrete countertop in the concession stand. He said they just finished up fencing around the stadium. “We’ll all share a punch list and the team will come up from Biloxi,” he said. Calvert said it will be him, engineers, architects and head executives. “They’re going to go over everything with a fine tooth comb,” Trustee Clint Huffman said. “Yeah, they’re going to check things off one by one,” Calvert said. If anything needs to be addressed, he’ll bring it back to the board. If everything is clear, they’ll hand over the keys and the district will pay its last payment. Board President Mike Thomas asked about grand opening plans. “Will there be something planned before the September 6 game?” Thomas said. Superintendent Glen Beard said there will be a meeting at the Chamber of Commerce office with members of the administration, board, Booster Club, and Chamber officials to plan out a grand opening. “We can invite members of both the Indians and Lions football teams,” Thomas said. “And invite all the dignitaries.” He said he had a conversation with Choctaw County Economic Development Director Randy Loper and Loper was on board for the idea. Beard said plans are underway and the goal is to have something before Meet the Chargers. Grand opening plans will be announced when they have been finalized.
