Parade and Dedication of CM Youth Baseball Season

Take me out to the ballgame

   Spectators lined Main and North Streets for the kick off parade of the 2007 Cal-Mum Youth Baseball and Softball seasons. Teams of players from t-ball to the majors proudly carried on the traditional opening day march to the Little League diamond at Tennent Park where they were met by several special guests including Caledonia Mayor Joe Caluorie, Supervisor Dan Pangrazio, Wheatland TB member Tammy Spear, School Superintendent David Dinolfo and Elementary Principal James Wolinsky. League President Tim Anderson and Youth Baseball Historian Steve Pullyblank administered the Little League Pledge to all the players.

   Each year, the season is dedicated to two people who have had a positive influence on community baseball and softball. The league dedicated the 2007 season to Doug Preston and Pete Pegoni.

   Preston coached at all youth levels and served as president of the league for two years in the 1980’s. He was instrumental at coordinating the annual All Star Tournament, including field preparation and organizing the food preparation. Preston is a reservist in the United States Army and is always ready to serve his country if called upon.

   Pegoni has been an umpire in the area for many years and also served as the coordinator for softball umpire training. He often volunteered to umpire the All Star Tournament. He continues to umpire today and is currently the Genesee Valley Umpires Association membership chairman.

   "Today we designate May 5, 2007 as "love your umpires day," Pullyblank joked. "Just remember, Pete, come Monday afternoon the "boo birds" will return!"

   With the formalities complete, each of the special guests and the honorees tossed a ceremonial first pitch, officially marking the start up of the local season of America’s pastime. "Let’s play ball!"