1st Bank of Berne Field opens

The first pitch was thrown out, appropriately, by First Bank of Berne’s Kent Liechty (above) as First Bank of Berne Field was officially opened Saturday in Jubilee Park. Eric McCracken, one of the prime forces behind the new youth baseball field, thanked others involved in the project, which was funded by private donations. Construction of the field was begun last year and was completed early this spring. Below, the first batter in the first game played on the field looks at his first pitch. (photos by Dave Mosier/Van Wert independent)