Someone took thousands of dollars in equipment and food, forcing league officials to scrambling to re-open its revenue-generating food stand.
"This is a rough start," said Jaime Jalomo, president, Blue Island Little League.
Jaime knew he would have a lot on his plate when he took over as president of the Blue Island Little League this year but he's already faced two big problems a few days into the season. First, the field on the east side was left muddy from standing water, so all games had to move to Roush Field. Then over the weekend, the concession stand at Roush Field was broken into and he estimates $3,000 worth of food and equipment was stolen.
"Boxes of candy, hot dogs, hotdog buns, the pizza ovens, the P.A. system, our stereo," said Jalomo.
Jalomo says the break-in happened sometime between the Friday night and Saturday morning games and that someone gained access by kicking open the rolled down metal window.
"We replaced the locks, put a new alarm system in and new locks everywhere so, hopefully, we're better protected," said Jalomo.
Blue Island Little League serves boys and girls ages five to 12. Some are on a team representing Zack's Hi-Tech Collision Center which has sponsored a team all 52 years it's been in business.
"They're stepping over the line. Here they're not able to serve the little kiddies the pops and candies. That's what it's all about," said Bob Zakhar, Zak's Hi-Tech Collision Center.
Zakhar says it will be hard to cover the losses. The league barely makes a profit selling concessions. He hopes whoever is responsible will return the stolen goods, no questions asked.
"I would hope they took out of necessity and not just out of spite," said Zakhar.
Blue Island police say they are investigating a series of break-ins in the area.
Those who would like to donate to the league can send donations to:
Blue Island Little LeaguePO Box 386
Blue island, il 60406
