Penn Township Pickleball Club Hosts Fundraiser: On a Friday evening charged with local spirit and a touch of controversy, the Penn Township Pickleball Club rallied to support a cause beyond the court. The fundraiser, aimed at benefiting Helping Hands of Cass County, also sought to shift the narrative surrounding a controversial local cannabis ordinance.
A Game with a Purpose
The Penn Township Pickleball Club’s tournament was not just a show of athletic skills but a community-driven event with a clear mission. For a modest donation of $10, participants were entered into doubles matches, contributing to a collective effort to support those in need through Helping Hands of Cass County. This organization plays a crucial role in providing essential resources to residents facing hardships, and the event’s proceeds were directed toward this cause.
Bridging the Divide
The event took on an added layer of significance given the backdrop of the ongoing debate over Penn Township’s cannabis ordinance. The ordinance, which permits outdoor marijuana cultivation, has sparked polarized opinions among residents. Despite this, the Pickleball Club used the event as a platform to highlight the positive impacts of cannabis businesses on the community.
Lisa Fitzsimons, the Penn Township Hall Park Director, offered insights into the broader benefits associated with the cannabis industry. “So, Penn Township has a cannabis ordinance that allows outdoor growth, and it has been very controversial. But we want to show that there’s more than one side of the story, and they do a lot of good things for our community.” she explained.
Fitzsimons detailed how licensing fees from cannabis businesses have significantly contributed to local infrastructure and services, including the construction of a new park and a $1.5 million fund for the fire department, all achieved without raising taxes.
“The licensing fees for the township have allowed us to build this. They let us build this park, we have $1.5 million set aside for a fire department. And this is without raising taxes, so we have done roadwork. It’s significant funds.” – (Lisa Fitzsimons)
Impact Beyond the Court
The event showed not only the financial support raised but also the community’s shifting perspective on cannabis. A notable $7,000 donation from local cannabis growing farms to Helping Hands of Cass County was a testament to the tangible benefits that these businesses bring to the area.
In addition to the tournament, the event served as a reminder of the upcoming local elections, with residents encouraged to participate and make their voices heard. The evening was a celebration of community spirit, showing how diverse elements of local life, including cannabis businesses, can contribute positively to society.
News in Brief: Penn Township Pickleball Club Hosts Fundraiser
The Penn Township Pickleball Club hosted a fundraiser for Helping Hands of Cass County, raising $7,000 through a community pickleball tournament. The event also aimed to address a local controversy over a cannabis ordinance by showing the positive impacts of cannabis businesses, including significant contributions to local infrastructure and services. The tournament not only supported a worthy cause but also fostered a more distinct discussion about the benefits of cannabis in the community.
Also Read: The Rise of Chris Haworth: A New Force in Pickleball
