The Babe Ruth District 1 girls softball tournament began at Ledgerwood Field this afternoon with a presentation to a man who knows the park well.

Mayor Emery Doughtie honored Jesse Spence with a plaque for his more than 40 years of umpiring.

Doughtie, who played ball himself under Spence’s tutelage, said, “I’ve been gone (from playing) some 40 years. It’s been good to see how the programs have grown.”

Spence, the mayor said, “Wanted us to get to more out of this than playing ball.”

(Details on the games may be found on our sports page)

Even now, Doughtie said, “I hear about the good things he’s done and how he’s given back to the community. We owe you a debt of gratitude and I’m pleased to give you this plaque for over 40 years of service to the residents of Roanoke Rapids and Eastern North Carolina.”

Spence accepted the plaque, saying, “It’s been a long time since Emery played shortstop. I thank God. I’ve had a wonderful life.”

Billy Smith, vice president of Roanoke Valley Girls Softball, said the plaque was a gift from the softball and umpires association. “He’s really been a part of everything the district is about.”

Roanoke Rapids Parks and Recreation Director John Simeon said Spence is a big part of the sports community in the city. “This was for his long years of dedication. It’s an excellent way to see him recognized in this fashion with people from Northeastern North Carolina getting to see him recognized.”

Cooke sings the national anthem.

Ashlyn Cooke opened the tournament by singing the national anthem.

Simeon said he is proud to have the tournament in the city. “It’s a great day for Roanoke Rapids to host this Eastern North Carolina regional tournament.”

The tournament has brought in 27 teams with about 15 players each, along with their family and friends, he said. “Tourism played a vital role in helping with logistics and communication.”

Smith said 1,200 people each day are expected to attend the tournament. “Last year we had a gross of $18,000.”

The Hilton Garden Inn has 60 rooms booked for the tournament, he said.

The softball association would like to see the program grow. “The city has gone above board to maintain the facility well,” Smith said. “We need some more corporate involvement.”