Swifts Beach Fundraiser for Pickleball Court: The ship-shaped playground at Swifts Beach, renowned for sparking the seafaring imagination of children, took on a new level of excitement on Sunday, July 21. The reason? None other than the infamous Captain Jack Sparrow, who brought a touch of pirate magic to the local fundraiser.
Captain Jack Sets Sail for Adventure
Captain Jack Sparrow, the swashbuckling hero from the “Pirates of the Caribbean” series, made a grand appearance at Swifts Beach, captivating children and adults alike. With his signature hat and sword, he engaged in a lively treasure hunt, defended the playground ship from imaginary foes, and posed for photos with eager fans.
Five-year-old Makayla Patalano, despite never having seen the Pirates of the Caribbean movies, was thrilled by the pirate’s visit. “I like when he gave me an entire bag” of treasure, she said, reflecting the joy of many young attendees who reveled in the pirate-themed festivities.
Behind the Mask: The Man and His Mission
The actor behind Captain Jack is not just playing a part; he and his wife are dedicated to bringing joy to communities across the state. Based in Salem, the couple has made it a tradition to support charitable causes through their pirate-themed events. This year marks their sixth annual August Pirate Month, during which a portion of their earnings are donated to various charities.
The actor humorously noted, “Born on a pirate ship,” explaining the character’s unorthodox career choices, including the absence of regular showers. This playful banter was part of what made the event a memorable experience for all.
A Community Effort: From Pirate Fun to New Pickleball Court Addition
The pirate-themed extravaganza wasn’t just about fun and games; it also served a crucial purpose. The event was organized as part of a fundraiser for Phase II of the Swifts Beach playground construction. Kathleen Norris, president of the Swifts Beach Improvement Association, explained that while the playground’s upgrades—including the refurbishing of the basketball court and adding a new pickleball court—were planned for completion by the event, the construction isn’t quite finished yet.
As a result, the event became a fundraiser to support the ongoing playground projects. The introduction of the pickleball court, in particular, is a highly anticipated addition that will offer new recreational opportunities for residents of all ages.
Swifts Beach’s playground continues to evolve, thanks to community efforts and events like this one. The planned improvements, including the pickleball court, are set to enhance the playground’s appeal and utility, making it a hub for family fun and physical activity.
As Captain Jack Sparrow’s visit demonstrated, combining imaginative events with practical goals can foster a strong sense of community spirit and support for local initiatives. With ongoing dedication and enthusiasm, Swifts Beach is set to become an even more vibrant and engaging space for everyone to enjoy.
News in Brief: Swifts Beach Fundraiser for Pickleball Court
On July 21, Swifts Beach’s ship-shaped playground saw a thrilling boost of excitement with a visit from Captain Jack Sparrow, the famed pirate from “Pirates of the Caribbean.” The charismatic actor delighted children and adults with a treasure hunt, playful sword fights, and photo opportunities. The event, part of a fundraiser for Phase II of the playground’s construction, aimed to support the ongoing upgrades, including a new pickleball court. Organized by the Swifts Beach Improvement Association, the fundraiser highlights the community’s commitment to enhancing recreational spaces. With the new pickleball court and other planned improvements, Swifts Beach is set to become an even more vibrant and enjoyable venue for families.
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