The restrooms and concessions under the stands are below average. And I'm not a fan of the wings. But otherwise, I think it looks good and it's a good place to watch a game. It's fairly attractive at night.

A grass cutting and weed killer wouldn’t hurt either

Frankly, I don't think it should be the responsibility of alumni to fund basic maintenance. If you can't care for it, don't build it.

Why should I donate money for the university to cut the grass. I’ve watched the University gut the grounds and maintenance staff to hire more middle management.

Our thinking isn't entirely in synch. But there is some overlap. As to "new features such as walkways, trees, signage, lighting, etc.," some of my Campus Beautification donations fall into what you regard as worthy of supporting with donations. Example: After Howard Hall was razed and development of its replacement park was announced, I donated to that initiative. Result: Not only did I receive the obligatory Thank You letter, but also received blueprint of how the finish project would appear. Example: Once Lynne and I noticed that, at the campus main gate, pedestrians were passing through and immediately cutting right or left instead of using the brick walkways. We donated and said we wanted the money used to plant bushes and/or install benches that would "guide" pedestrians to the brick walkways. Then, yes, I have directed Campus Beautification donations to work that you deem inappropriate. Example: On a Homecoming Saturday, daughter Andrea and I were walking on College Green. We noticed that the Cutler tower needed attention as did the front doors on Wilson and McGuffey plus one of their roofs. We donated and said we wanted the money used to effect fixes. It was. I do see those "basic maintenance items" as investments in Alma Mater's long-term draw for students and alumni involvement. BTW, I agree with your concern with admin staff bloat. I once said to Rod McDavis that an experienced business exec could quickly cut staff by 20% and add to admin effectiveness. How many colleges does OU have? 8 or 9? How many have their own advancement staffs? Judicious consolidation would be welcomed.

Exactly. Mike, the discussion is about power washing, weed killing, grass cutting, etc. These are basic maintenance items that every organization faces and should be part of their very robust operating budget.

I bet that print of the finished product had visions of lush green lawns! Sadly, there are no more flowers or mulch around trees, they rarely ever paint trim or railings and if the grass gets cut once every two weeks, that’s surprising. Bottom line is that staff is 50% of what it was 20 years ago.

I like your recommendation for stronger treatment of donation ideas. Preceding Campus Beautification the category was called Buildings & Grounds. Today you can use either term when donating. And as I've said, you can get very explicit with how you want your donation used.

Thanks for the kind words, Billy. I don't take offense when folks disagree with me. One lesson I learned early in life: Disagreements can open minds - for both parties. Re your use of the word loyalty. I have a strong sense of loyalty to my high school and three college alma maters - OU, law school, grad business school. Chief reason for the loyalty: They led to many lasting friendships and contributed to a strong foundation for life and living. It's easy for me to be grateful and want to help them.