It’s an age-old problem: volunteers, financial resources and the lack thereof. Chris Williams, President of the Johnny Cake Baseball Association in Mansfield, noted that their situation is no different, and help is needed.
”We are using two mowers that are 20+ years old and we are trying to raise the funds to buy one. Hopefully we can get a grant to buy a second mower for next season. We also extended the bathrooms so there will be more than one toilet for each gender now. I have it framed and roofed. It will need siding, three toilets, two urinals, two sinks, and two handicap doors. The existing bathrooms, someone kicked the doors in and busted the frames, so two new doors and frames will also have to be purchased.” Williams went on to add that the siding is coming apart on the concession stand, the driveway and field are both washed out and in need of gravel/dirt.
“If we can get the bathrooms repaired and purchase a mower this year, then we can hopefully get a grant and finish the rest before next season. We would also like to put some playground equipment out there so the kids, who are not playing ball, have something to do.”
The Mansfield City Council voted to allow public works employees to brush hog the outside perimeter of the fields so that the association is only responsible for maintaining the rest during the 2024 season.
Williams and the ball association are asking for the assistance from the community to help make needed repairs and perform upkeep. Those who might be interested in either contributing labor, or making donations, can contact Williams at 479-561-5151.
