The Lake Orion Lions Club was asked to help sell hot dogs at the grand opening of the Miracle League Field of North Oakland on Aug. 9. The Miracle Field is a new baseball field at Friendship Park geared for children with disabilities.

We had no idea what we were getting into, except to sell hot dogs. Phillip and Donnie Steele chaired our event.

Miracle Field is the newest of four such parks in the state of Michigan. The field does not have grass or dirt. It’s made from a rubber base material similar to running tracks. This allows the kids to use their walkers and wheelchairs and removes any trip hazards. Easterseals is a huge supporter and partner in making this field happen.

There were several other food vendors to help kick off the grand opening. Culvers gave all the kids a free ice cream, and the Lions gave all the kids a free hot dog and drink.

Fox 2 news with Deena Centofanti also came out and did a story. (Thank you, Deena, for putting good news on the broadcast.)

A helicopter did several flyovers for the kids. VFW Post 334 did the honors of raising the flag, and Hailey Melchert sang the National Anthem. The Orion Twp. Fire Dept. brought out the big ladder truck to display another American flag.

My hats off to all the groups that helped put on a Grand Opening, but the best part was the kids.

Watching the kids hit the ball, run the bases, field the ball, their laughter and huge smiles was priceless. The kids throwing their arms in the air reminded me of the movie Rocky. Every single kid got a chance to play ball, bat, run the bases, field, cheer and enjoy the crowd cheering them on.

The evening ended with a spectacular fireworks display.

Jim Lykins

Lake Orion Lions Club