Jimmy Chesire announced in July of this year that he would be retiring from his position as volunteer head coach — and chronicler — of Perry League T-ball after 35 years.

“And that’s our rain-soaked, muddy July 16 Perry League, Yellow Springs’ T-ball program for all kids 2–9 years of age, regardless of their race, color, creed, sexual orientation, ethnicity, spiritual inclination or practice, ability or disability.”

“And that’s our rain-soaked, muddy July 16 Perry League, Yellow Springs’ T-ball program for all kids 2–9 years of age, regardless of their race, color, creed, sexual orientation, ethnicity, spiritual inclination or practice, ability or disability.”

“You might have a nice little laugh and maybe a bit of fun, a few moments of joy, should you join us at Gaunt Park. These kids and their families are terrific people full of love and energy, goodness and grace — so why don’t you treat yourself? Come on out. We’d love to have you.”

The 49th season of the Perry League came to a close in a loving and glorious way. More than 60 children came out for a final night of play, a potluck wiener roast picnic and the grand finale of the awarding of Perry League trophies.

T-ball is a wonderful thing happening to me every Friday night. But Mayor Pam Conine graced our diamond.

It was around 90 degrees at 6:30 p.m., and when I got to the field there was not a soul in sight — just me and an empty, oven-hot diamond.

When Henry Campbell, 6, comes to the plate, he looks serious, like a man sent in to do a job only a professional like him can do. 

We don’t hear thunder. There were dark clouds to the east of us, and more to the west. But people keep showing up, keep coming to the diamond. We decide to play.

Fiona Garcia, 5, came to bat without her Perry League cap. “She doesn’t want to wear it,” Laura Byrnes said. “It musses her hair too much.” “I feel the same way,” I said, and noticed, as if for the first time, Fiona’s fabulous head of hair.