APRIL 28 - The Brookline Little League kicked off their 62nd season with the annual Opening Day Parade. The forecast called for intermittent showers and the temperature hovered in the upper-30s. The dreary outlook didn't stop Brookline's boys and girls from showing off their new uniforms and team banners for everyone to see. This was the day they had been waiting for since signups in February. Despite the gloomy weather, it was time once again for the the baseball/softball season to begin, and these kids were ready.

The parade began at the Brookline firehouse and proceeded down the Brookline Boulevard to the Community Center. Once the procession arrived at Brookline Park's Sam Bryen Fields, the teams lined up along the fences for the team banner judging. While the players enjoyed refreshments, the Washington Wild Thing worked it's way around the crowd, acting zany and taking photographs with the kids.

Soon the banner winners were announced. It was a difficult decision. There were so many original and interesting choices. For the girls, Brookline Pub took the top prize. For the boys, Vinnie's Pretzels was judged the best. Both teams won a pizza party.

Once the parade festivities were over, it was time for the games to begin. Although the forecasted rain held off, the temperature dipped and snowflakes fluttered through the air. That didn't matter. The Little League season is here again and it's time to play ball. Good luck to all of the boys and girls. May your bats be strong and your gloves be quick.

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* Photos provided by Clint Burton *