Blues skies for Little League start

Warm weather, crowds greet opening day of Little League

 

 

The kickoff to the 2011 Little League featured endings and beginnings under bright sunshine on what might have been the nicest day of the year thus far Sunday.

Retiring Little League President Ernie Bassett received a rousing round of applause as he was recognized for his many years of service during the opening ceremonies.

Emcee Mary King announced during the ceremony the main field will be named in Bassett’s honor when it is completed; a plaque will later be hung at the field.   

The 58th year of Granville Little League featured the annual parade down Main Street and continued through the little league complex to the field adjacent the warming hut where opening ceremonies were held for the first time.

New Little League President Tim Thomas spoke briefly assuring parents and children the ongoing renovation work will not interfere with game play due to creative rescheduling. As Bassett once again threw out the first pitch to softball player Hayley Shaw and baseball player Jarret Ettori – it was officials little league had begun.

The crowds dispersed to the various fields for exhibition play under bright blue skies.