ERMA — The sun finally broke through the clouds mid-morning April 12 for the Lower Cape May Regional Little League 2008 season opener at the Ralph Bakley Field Complex behind the Carl Mitnick School here on Seashore Road.

Parents, spectators and players enjoyed a day of baseball and softball starting at 9:30 a.m. when members of the Sandman School choir sang the National Anthem during the opening day ceremony and Richard “Mickey” McPherson threw out the first pitch for girls’ softball and boys’ baseball.

This was the first year McPherson was behind the fence after 29 years of coaching.

"I just love the game," he said.

Parents sold raffle tickets to win four Phillies Diamond Club tickets, and spectators enjoyed hot dogs and pretzels along with sandwiches from Spanky’s BBQ.

Proceeds from a clothing drive will help raise funds for the league.

For more information on upcoming games or how to join the League, contact President Jim Volpe at 884-3268.