Sports Editor Eric Johnson discusses topics on in-season sports and issues in sports all across America. Reading this column will not only make you chuckle, but it will also change your life in the most positive way known to man.The snow is gone, the sun is shining, and the windows are down. Get ready boys and girls, it’s time for Opening Day.

For you uneducated swine, Opening Day is an MLB tradition, and has been for 146 years. It marks the first home game of each baseball team and is the best way to kick-off spring.

As things warm up outside, students prepare themselves for after school activities outside. Activities such as the highly anticipated cookouts and bonfires during spring break, weekends, and this upcoming summer.

Spring is mainly exciting because of the ability to do outside activities, like going to athletic events instead of having to watch sports on TV.

I can’t disagree, watching a baseball game on TV isn’t always the most exciting time. Nothing compares to the atmosphere provided by physically being at a baseball game.

Going to see the Baltimore Ravens play is usually a fun time, but it pales in comparison to baseball. You can actually see the baseball game at the stadiums without squinting, unlike football games.

We, as Maryland citizens, have the privilege of experiencing the marvelous, historically enriched Camden Yards stadium.

Even though it’s no Fenway Park or Wrigley Field, some of the greatest baseball players of all time have played on the beautiful field that the current Baltimore Orioles play on. Camden Yards is among some of the oldest but best maintained baseball parks in the world.

In addition to spending nights outside of your home, going to baseball games brings out your American pride along with providing a great date night for anybody. Not to mention, they have the “Kiss Cam” at every game, so you shyer fellows/ladies have an excuse to finally man/woman up and kiss the guy/girl you have a crush on.

It’s also a great “Guys/Gals Night.” Nothing beats going down to the Yard and having some overpriced dogs with the boys. Or eat at Gino’s if you prefer, which I do, simply because it’s better.

I know that I’m planning a BBQ tailgate before a game and then going to a baseball game at Camden Yards. After, I am having a party, and it’ll probably be the highlight of my summer. It’s enjoying a great day in the best country on the planet, and living the American Dream.

So find a pair of cargo shorts, borrow your dad’s bucket hat, and get on out there boys and girls.

Eric Johnson is a Sports Editor for The Patriot and jcpatriot.com.