Small Town Big Dreams

Mike Thurston and I before the big game in Portland. Thurston has always called me “Yogi” since I was his catcher his junior and senior years. He now makes his home in New Hampshire. (Shelley Massey photo)

Hometime Proud

I fully recognize that basketball may have very little to do with motorsports, however, when the school I graduated from in 1970 and taught at for 38 years wins their first State Boys Basketball championship in 50 years, I just need to proclaim it. Congratulations also to the Southern Aroostook Warrior girls who defeated Greenville and to the Houlton Shiretown boys who made to the state finals before losing to Winthrop.

I was a member of the Caribou High School Band in 1969 when the shot sent up from mid-court by Mike Thurston with 2 seconds to go went in securing CHS boys their first gold ball.

I remember the dead silence a fraction of a second after the ball  dropped cleanly through the hoop. The call was that the basket was good and within moments I, along with most of the band members and hoards of fans were on the court congratulating our classmates for the great win. The “Cardiac Kids”, as they were called, had done it!

This article originally appeared on www.bangordailynews.com.