YEAR IN REVIEW: This article was originally published on August 28.
It’s an annual tradition that’s been going for 18 years.
Every summer, a group of neighbours in Thorold South meet up for a friendly game of baseball at the diamond in McAdam Park.
“We pick one day in the year and all get together and play baseball and barbecue,” explains local resident Brad Stemplowski, in an interview with ThoroldToday.
This year’s game took place last Saturday afternoon, but the turnout was a little less than usual.
“We had a lot of people cancel because they don't want their young kids playing on the field because it is in bad shape,” says Stemplowski.
Still, he is adamant that the field is in better shape than it usually is.
“When they come and cut the grass, they go around the field,” Stemplowski says. “But this time, first time, like end of August, instead of going around, they cut the whole infield which is beautiful.”
As to his motivation for keeping the game going all these years, Stemplowski points to the camaraderie among his neighbours.
“You know what? I've known these people for 60 years. I like them all,” he laughs.
Stemplowski grew up in Thorold South, and after marrying the girl next door, he built a house a mere stone’s throw away from his parents’ house.
“This is where I was born,” says Stemplowski. “I've never been able to leave. My friends are all here, my grandchildren live here. We’re all neighbours.”
But during his time living in Thorold South, Stemplowski says he has also seen the public facilities deteriorate.
“I don't want to make it look we're blaming Thorold but it could be better,” he says. “For six years, I've been calling the city about this park. I don't know why they're doing this. There's got to be a reason.”
When reached for comment Thorold City Hall released the following statement:
“Based on available resources and budget, City staff perform regular maintenance based on the level of service prescribed for each type of facility. McAdam Park is currently listed as a Table C Park,” they write.
As a Table C park the grass is cut weekly but the field is not maintained. Other Table C parks in the city are Hutt Park, Martin Street Park and Beaverdams Village Park.
“Council has recently approved its 2024-2027 Strategic Plan which has identified the need to upgrade its baseball and soccer facilities,” writes City Hall. “McAdam Park is one of many Community parks that will be considered for upgrades in future budget deliberations.”
At the end of the day, in spite of the less than ideal playing conditions, the residents in Thorold South still had a relaxing Saturday afternoon of baseball.
“Rarely do I see everyone at the same time,” Stemplowski says. “I know everyone but we’re rarely together so this is a beautiful day.”
