To the Editor:

Last Saturday, September 28, over 150 pickleball enthusiasts showed up for a Pickleball Fun Day to raise money toward constructing proper pickleball courts in Newtown. The event was held at the Fairfield Hills campus at the current temporary courts/ back parking lot site. The committee would truly like to thank Newtown Parks and Rec, including Amy Mangold and Connor Negri for their unending efforts to make this event happen, and to all the individuals who attended the event and supported the fund-raising efforts through sponsorships, gift baskets and raffle tickets.

Candlewood Center for Women’s Health of Danbury was the lead sponsor followed by Newtown Savings Bank. Other significant sponsors were Rings End, Newtown Smile Dentistry, Around Town Real Estate, Chiropractic Center of Newtown, Caraluzzi’s Market, and Sandy Hook Wine and Liquor. We also want to thank everyone who donated gift certificates and baskets for the raffle including NewSylum Brewery, Market Place Kitchen & Bar, Your Healthy Pet, Newtown Hardware, Nails & Beyond, Newtown Youth Academy, Toy Tree, Newtown Stop & Shop, Newtown Big Y, Cover Two, Flow to Fit Yoga, Gypsy’s & Rebels Salon, Sandy Hook Café, Barnwood Grill, Yankee Liquor, Cork & Barrel, Newtown Subway, Danbury Peachwave, and Gina’s Nails.

The event was run by a dedicated group of pickleballers and included beginner lessons and an intermediate and advanced level tournament. Participants ranged in age from 14 to 82. We also want to thank the tremendous support we received from our Vendors at Joanne’s Fitness Studio, Lake House Soaps, Shan Trew Davies Designs, and Picklewearcustom.com. The JJ Stacks Food Truck was on-site serving delicious food and drinks covering breakfast and lunch. Events like this exemplify the growing sport of pickleball and the diverse community it serves. Building pickleball courts in Newtown will further this welcoming community and create opportunities for all residents to learn, play and be a part of the health and wellness of our community. If you are interested in playing pickleball contact Newtown Parks and Rec for lessons and open play times.

Thank you.

Kim Didomizio and Barbara Jagoe

Newtown