This is always a "feel-good" event. It's a short parade, going once around the block. Hundreds of people from the community come out to show their support for the youth baseball program. When the parade reaches Tennent Park, there is a brief opening ceremony.

Normally Kelley's Heroes and the high school band play The Star-Spangled Banner together for the ceremony. Unfortunately, the high school band wasn't able to participate because of a scheduling conflict. However, there were five students who still wanted to participate, so they marched with us. They were Sarah E. on flute, Sarah B. and Matt Z. on alto sax, and Trevor K. and Jake R. on trumpet. They did a great job, and we hope they'll join us in their junior and senior years.

Jon and Steve co-coach one of the teams, so they split their choices. Jon marched with the team and Steve marched with the band.

The banner was carried by Angelina, Maddy, Claire and Meghan.

Margaret had the whistle for the first time, and she did a wonderful job. She also played piccolo, and Tara played flute. Marcia and Kelly played clarinet; Steve and Jack played saxophone.

Matt came all the way from Buffalo to play trumpet along with Caledonia natives, Scott W. and Arnie. Scott M. played trombone; Harold played sousaphone.

Don S. played snare drum; Andy played bass drum and Emily, eight months pregnant, played cymbals.

Our next event is the Lilac Parade on Saturday, May 13.