This Day in Walter O’Malley History:
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Walter O’Malley writes a letter of appreciation to Merrill P. Barber, former Mayor of Vero Beach and President of the Indian River County Citrus Bank, for his efforts leading to the grand opening of Holman Stadium. Barber chaired the local committee for the March 11 event and served as the day’s on-field emcee. “I want you to know Merrill, how much I appreciate all that you did in making the dedication of Holman Stadium such a success. With good friends like you we hope that the Stadium will continue this success.”
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Larry Maher Jr., nephew of Bud Holman (for whom Holman Stadium is named), writes a letter about the dedication ceremonies to Walter O’Malley stating, “It was truly a great moment for me at the dedication when they unveiled the placque (sp.) in his (Holman’s) honor. He is most deserving of the honor bestowed on him. A truly greater friend you will never know, as I have known...The stadium was certainly in all its glory for the dedication and I heard many comments on how the palms completed the setting.”
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Donning a sombrero and serape, Walter O’Malley enjoys the festivities at Mexico City’s Social Security Stadium as the World Champion Dodgers defeat the Mexico City Tigers, 8-3, to open a three-game series of exhibition games. The hat and cape were gifts to O’Malley from the Mexican Tourist Department presented by Rodolfo Martinez Sierra. Los Angeles Mayor Sam Yorty tosses the ceremonial first pitch. Don Drysdale, Sandy Koufax, Bob Miller and Joe Moeller all pitch for the Dodgers. All three games were televised in Los Angeles from Mexico City on KMEX TV Channel 34 (UHF).
