On a Grafton farm, a real field of dreams

For many parents, there’s nothing like watching their children partake in America’s national pastime.

But most don’t do it from their own front yard.

Lester Bartel of the Town of Grafton is the exception.

Bartel built a regulation high school fast-pitch softball field on his 45-acre property in 2002. He calls it Lebon Park, named for him and his wife Bonnie.

Hundreds of children have hit, fielded, caught, thrown and pitched on the field.

“Our farm has been a home for wayward children for years,” Bartel said.