A Beautiful Day for a Parade

Wilmington's looked like a massive (yet miniature) version of the MLB's All-Star Game on Saturday as dozens of children in uniform arrived to take part in the third annual Little League Parade and opening day ceremonies.

The group paraded in style from Town Common to  before speeches were made, followed by the Orioles versus the Tigers in the first game of the season.

Everyone in attendance could not have asked for a nicer day, as there wasn't one cloud to be seen in the sky.

"I just want to know who is the weather coordinator on the [Board of Directors]?" joked Louis Cimaglia, Chairman of the Board of Selectmen. "He did another nice job here today."

Rick Hill, President of Wilmington Little League, welcomed the crowd as players circled around the baseball diamond. Hill wanted to thank all the people who make Wilmington Little League possible - including over 200 coaches donate their enthusiasm and time - as well as say a few words about the greatness of the sport itself.

"Baseball and softball embody the discipline of teamwork," he said. "They challenge players to correct their skills and bring into play the excitement of tactics and strategy."

Town Manager Michael Caira was in attendance to get a glimpse of Opening Day, and he had some encouraging words for the kids.

"Enjoy yourselves," he said. "The reason that you play this game is to have fun. And that’s what you should do everyday that you come on this Little League field, or any other field across this wonderful town that we all call our home."

Before the clash of the Orioles and the Tigers got underway, Caira also wanted to leave the players with a few final words of advice:

"If you have two strikes on you, move up in the plate, move up a little bit in the box, choke up a little bit and hit to the opposite field. Good luck!”

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