We were invited to attend the opening ceremonies of the Cal Ripken park on Friday evening. They renamed the ball park in honor of my Grandpa and all the wonderful things he did for the youth of our community. It was so nice to hear so many speak so highly of my Grandpa. Of course we know how great he was, but it's always nice to hear others' stories. Aaron enjoyed showing Addison where he played ball when he was little. It's always fun to go to these types of functions because we run into so many people we haven't seen in so long. It's nice to catch up and visit with people we've spent fun times with.
Enjoy the pictures from below. Another very proud evening for the Lucas family. It was a gorgeous day in Sarasota... I know my Grandpa's smile was shining down from Heaven.
Nora Patterson (County Commissioner, Mayor) knew my Grandpa very well through the Sports Committee.
We sat on the field as the 33 teams were announced. Addison loved seeing all the boys in their uniforms. She told us which teams she liked. Notice her lollipop? Such a special treat to have a lollipop!
At a few points, we thought she was going to run out onto the pitchers mound! She was so excited!
Taking in all the sights!
County Commisioners Nora Patterson and Carolyn Mason speaking about Grandpa.
Dad introducing the family and thanking everyone for honoring Grandpa in this special way.
View from our seats on the field.
Addison has her eye on the "Seminoles" team!
Presenting the $60,000 check to the Cal Ripken league.
Addison LOVED this bird- she kept calling it a duck when it was far away. 
Throwing out the first pitch, Jason Berken from the Orioles.
Waiting her turn to say hello to the Oriole.
He was whistling to her! She thought it was so funny that the bird was wearing shoes!
In front of the sign- getting ready to light it!
They invited us for BBQ after the ceremony. Addison kept saying- I so happy we're having "lunch" here. We kept reminding her it was dinner time. She loved the picnic!
Going to watch the baseball game!
Telling me all about the game!
Addison was so excited to go for ice cream afterwards!
ICE CREAM!
She ate hers, then finished mine :-) Here's her ice cream face.
And now cheese-ing.
1 comment:
Aww what a special night for your family! It must feel great to know he was so loved and respected by SO MANY people! Love you all and congrats on such a wonderful acknowledgement:)
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