Let the learning begin

GIVE IT A LICK- Young Simi Valley resident Sydney Hamann, 5, takes a swing at the ball during the "BataThon" fundraiser held as a part of the festivities for the Simi Valley Girls Softball Opening Day on Sunday, March 2 at Big Sky Park. Festivities were originally set for Feb. 23 but had to be rescheduled because of inclement weather. The day's happenings included the annual team parade and ceremonies honoring last season's victorious AllStars, including two national contenders, Simi 12-U and 14-U Gold. WENDY PIERRO Acorn Newspapers