The Linn-Mar baseball team played at Cascade last Wednesday. I almost didn't go to the game as it had rained off and on all day and I thought the game would be cancelled. I'm glad I went as I got to see a great "come from behind" victory in the second game, with Jon getting a key hit.
Visiting Cascade's baseball field was worth the trip alone. It's quaint features and home-town charm brought back memories from my days growing up in a small town in Iowa. Wayne's Feed Service, Cascade Telephone Company, McDermott Oil and other local merchants proudly support the team with advertising on the outfield fence. The thirty foot sun screen in center field adds a unique touch. And we were even graced with the aroma of a near by cattle lot!
But best of all are the locals who show up to watch the game. They aren't there to watch their sons or to cheer on a "can't miss" prospect. They're there because it's Wednesday and the team is playing baseball tonight. They show up to cheer on the team. They have been showing up like this for years and have watched many of the boys parents play on the same field.
It's good to go to places like Cascade on an Iowa summer evening. It reminds me that life is really all about community. That the power of baseball is that it appeals to all generations. And that it takes a team to win.
I haven't thought much about growing old. But after my trip to Cascade, I hope that in my golden years that I can still get to a game, sit in the front row with my friends and cheer on the local team. This is baseball at its best!
