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CHASKA, Minn. (KMSP) - In Chaska, the show truly starts as one arrives to the ballpark. For two decades, fans have encountered Vince Meuwissen the ticket taker before getting into the park to enjoy a Cubs game.
“Vinny is the history of the Athletic Park,” said Dale Welter, Cubs Hall of Fame manager. “At the booth, he’s real friendly because when the ladies come up, he says, ‘Hey how are you doing there young lass,’ so the ladies like coming in and he enjoys being there.”
Twenty years in the ticket booth isn’t where it began. Meuwissen played for the Cubs in the ‘40s and won a state championship. He has become such a legend that his booth actually bears his name – an honor he realizes that few have.
“I don’t know about [any other one],” said Meuwissen. “I’m just lucky, ya know? One of those lucky guys. Lucky in everything – lucky to be alive, I suppose.”
The prices to attend a Cubs game won’t break the bank - $3 for adults, kids free and spectators over 63 get in just for $2. For years seniors were only charged a dollar, but Meuwissen wanted that changed to boost season ticket sales.
“Told them to raise the price to $2 – for seniors it was always $1 – I said maybe some of them will buy a season pass,” said Meuwissen. “Have them pay a little more and say you know we got a good deal on season passes. Each pass is worth five beers or five pop and five popcorns – not a bad deal for $40.”
“Vince is always a man of suggestions for the ball park,” said Bob Roepke, Cubs general manager. “He says, ‘How about this area back here, can’t we clean it up a little more so we can park some cars back here?’ or ‘Why don’t you do this or how about this price for this?’ – he’s got a lot of suggestions. Some of those we listen to and some maybe don’t stick to the walls. So he’s a great guy, we love to have him. He’s part of Chaska Cubs baseball.”