Kiwanis Club Picks Pickleball Fundraiser: For over 75 years, the Kiwanis Club of Baytown has relied on its annual apple sale to raise funds for student scholarships. This time-honored tradition, however, is making way for a fresh approach. In a move reflecting changing times, the club has announced a transition to hosting a pickleball tournament.
Event Details
The inaugural pickleball tournament is scheduled for 8 a.m. on November 9 at the Lee College tennis courts. Unlike the longstanding apple sale, this event will be a one-day effort aimed at generating scholarship funds for local youth.
The Decision to Change
In an official statement, members of the Baytown Kiwanis Club expressed their emotions regarding this transition.
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the Kiwanis Club of Baytown will no longer be holding our annual Apple Sale after 76 wonderful years.” – (statement)
The decision, they noted, was driven by rising costs and shifts within the community, prompting a need for a new direction.
“This decision was not made lightly, but due to rising costs and changes within our community, we felt it was time for a new direction.” – (statement)
The club also emphasized its gratitude toward the Baytown community, stating,
“We deeply appreciate the Baytown community’s steadfast support over the years and hope they will continue to stand by us in this new fundraising effort.” – (Baytown Kiwanis Club)
Their commitment to service remains unchanged, as they reaffirmed,
“Our motto remains the same: Serving the Children of the World, with all proceeds going toward benefiting the youth of Baytown and surrounding communities. Together, we can continue to make a positive impact.” – (Baytown Kiwanis Club)
Seeking Support and Participation
As the pickleball tournament approaches, club members are actively seeking players and sponsors to ensure the event’s success. Various sponsorship levels are available, offering businesses the chance to support the cause.
A platinum sponsorship costs $1,500 and includes logo placement on all signage and advertising. Other sponsorship tiers include gold at $1,000, silver at $500, and bronze and member sponsorships priced at $250 and $100, respectively.
Understanding Pickleball
Pickleball, while relatively new compared to sports like tennis and basketball, has been gaining traction since its inception in the mid-1960s. The game involves two or four players using smooth-faced paddles to hit a perforated, hollow plastic ball over a 34-inch net, continuing play until one side fails to return the ball or commits a foul. With rules and court dimensions distinct from tennis and table tennis, pickleball is rapidly becoming a favorite for many.
News in Brief: Kiwanis Club Picks Pickleball Fundraiser
The Kiwanis Club of Baytown is transitioning from its 76-year tradition of an apple sale to a pickleball tournament fundraiser. Scheduled for November 9 at Lee College, the event aims to support student scholarships.
The club expressed gratitude for community support while highlighting various sponsorship opportunities. Pickleball, a sport gaining popularity since the 1960s, will replace the long-standing apple sale, with all proceeds benefiting local youth.
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