With gas prices soaring through the roof, it's hard to justify the typical summer splurges. I decided in May that this summer was going to be a total bust.

But just when I thought I had nothing to look forward to but three months of muggy weather, I went to a Doubledays home game.

I know that “Dollar Thursday” has always met with mixed reviews. But in a struggling economy, I think it's wonderful that the Doubledays have hung on to this tradition.

I mean, where else can you watch a highly competitive minor league team, eat a hot dog and enjoy a cold beverage for $3?

Even if you don't go on dollar night, $4.50 general admission is still a pretty reasonable bargain. Besides which; the fans are loyal, the staff is friendly, and the parking is free (always a plus).

But more importantly, there is a nice sense of community at Falcon Park. Consider, when the Boston Red Sox lose a game there is rioting in the streets.

Heck, when the Red Sox win a game there is rioting in the streets. It's ridiculous. But I've never seen anyone break into a fight at a Doubledays game.

Even when the Doubledays lose, people still hang around for fireworks and everyone seems to leave smiling.

Even the traffic heading into or out of the game is pretty calm and leisurely. I don't think I've ever heard anyone honk or shout obscenities out their car window.

The atmosphere is relaxed and people are patient. It's refreshing.

In fact, I know a lot of people who go to the games just to socialize. It's the perfect place for teens to hang out because it keeps them off the streets and for the most part, out of trouble.

I don't work for the organization. I'm sure at this point this column seems nothing more than a shameless pitch to get people to the ballpark.

But the truth is; I just love the team and I love that I can still afford to support the team!

As Yogi Berra once said, “A nickel ain't worth a dime anymore.” With everyone feeling the financial pressure of the economy, I think it's great that there is still something inexpensive and fun for the whole family to enjoy.

Estabrook's column appears Mondays and she can be reached at estabrookcarole@yahoo.com