Community Classic: Chia Leah and Central Station meet on the diamond to celebrate each other and Wilmette

’Twas the battle of local commerce.

Fog swept across Howard Park as “Sirius” (the Chicago Bulls iconic intro music) delivered energy to those in the bleachers. Though only pregame, this crosstown showdown already heated to an intensity that rivaled the August sun.

Friends, collaborators and local business owners, Katie Degen and Leah Bostrom had their connection put to the test when Bostrom’s Chia Leah staff challenged Degen’s Central Station Coffee and Tea crew to a softball game. 

Well … not really.

It was all in good fun Sunday, Aug. 12, at Howard Park in Wilmette during the very friendly competition to mark the end of a successful summer for both businesses.

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“It’s all about community,” Bostrom said. “Our two small businesses are built around the community so it’s the best way to end the summer, especially for all our amazing teens who are going back to school.”

Amid a casual atmosphere, the teams pulled out all the stops pregame. A fog machine, hype music and public-address announcer Charles Curren welcomed the players onto the field. 

Wilmette pride was also on display. A star-studded guest list included Village President Senta Plunkett, who threw out the first pitch, and renowned musician Chris Karabas, who performed the national anthem.

From the first inning, the well-practiced Central Station found their groove. James Karabas, a former New Trier baseball player turned barista, helped give his team a strong lead.

“I think we played fantastic, and I think everyone had fun,” he said.

During the first inning, Central Station consistently rounded the bases. Another component of the team’s early success was their pitcher, The Record’s very own Joe Coughlin. After a tough first two innings, though, Chia Leah got it going in the third.

Coach Karabas noted Degen as his Most Valuable Player, saying they “couldn’t have done it without her.” An unsung hero for Central Station was Degen’s son, Bobby, 6, who doubled as an instinctive batboy and dangerous hitter. But don’t forget Bea Degen, who racked up multiple hits on the afternoon.

Chia Leah team found their harmony as Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” provided a jolt across the field. After that, the team made an improbable comeback with the support of coach Maria “Problem” Konosky.

As for her coaching strategy, Konosky said, “Just one hit at a time and believe, like Ted Lasso,” pointing to a Ted Lasso-style yellow piece of paper taped to the backstop with the word “believe” written on it. 

By the end of the game, the Chia Leah team had made up for earlier lost innings. While no one was keeping score, the game proved to be a nailbiter. Degen called the event a win not only for the two businesses but also for the community.

After the game, Degan and Bostrom hugged, leaving everything on the field. The two teams gathered together for a much-needed postgame meal from fellow local business Pizza By Sal.

“I’ve never been involved in something like this,” James Karabas said. “The fact that Wilmette is able to come together like this as a community is pretty crazy. I’m thankful to be here and be a part of this community.” 

Plans for a Round 2 are already in the works.

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