When I played Little League Baseball, we all felt like we were big leaguers.

That is because Northwest Little League president Jim Scown made us feel that way. He announced all of our games, which were played in full uniform, like we were all superstars.

Mr. Scown would announce the players when they came to bat. He would then narrate their trips around the bases. Even though we were literally playing on mine tailings, it felt like we were playing in Fenway Park or Yankee Stadium.

In 1988, two years after I finished my career, the tailings were removed (or covered), and the field now has a grass outfield and infield. It was dedicated for the league president who put in countless hours of volunteer time so we could play ball.

Today, Mr. Scown’s grandson, Brandon Scown, is the president of Northwest Little League, and he is striving to return that big-time atmosphere to games played at the stadium that is now named Jim Scown Field.

It is the best Little League field in the city, and it was once regarded as one of the best in the Northwest. Brandon wants to bring that back.

That is why the old bleachers at Scown Field were tore down this week. They will be replaced with temporary bleachers for at least this season before new bleachers are constructed.

It will take some time, patience and money. Some of that will be grant money. Other funds will come from local businesses and local donors.

If you would like to donate to the cause, contact Brandon at buttelittleleague@gmail.com. 

Earlier today, I met with Brandon, a longtime friend and former rival Little League coach, at the Coaches Corner at the Metals Sports Bar & Grill for a fun conversation.

Listen in as Brandon talks about playing and coaching in the league his grandfather ran for so long. Listen in to hear about the plans he has for Scown Field and the Northwest Little League.

Listen in to hear that he is doing all this for the right reason. Also listen in to hear us veer of topic a few times, as old friends tend to do when they catch up.

Today’s podcast is presented by Casagranda’s Steakhouse. Eat where the locals eat.