In grade school, many of my friends and I were big baseball fans, especially Joe Hoffman. We used to spend hours playing double or nothing on the diamond at George School.

The home opener for the Portland Beavers occurred on a bright, sunny, warm spring day in 1958. To honor and enjoy the day, several of us “skipped” school and went to the game. I don’t remember if I told my mom what I was going to do or not, but I suspect the school principal knew where we all had gone.

I don’t remember how we got to the game, probably on the bus, or whether it was played at the Vaughn Street Park or in the downtown stadium. I do know we had a good time. After the game we were so happy, and maybe broke, we walked the two or three miles home.

I don’t remember what, if any, punishment was the result but it couldn’t have been much to dampen our enjoyment of that day. I’m sure Joe will remember this better than me so I welcome his comments.

Ken Kaiyala
3-15-2024