Please note that drop-in pickleball play will not be available at Wulf Monday, Dec. 4, from 9:30 to 10:10 a.m., or Tuesday, Dec. 12, from 10:15 to 11:45 a.m. This will affect Intermediate play on Dec. 4 and Advanced play on Dec. 12. The EHS physical education class will be using the gym at those times.

Three board members were unanimously elected Thursday in an uncontested election during EPC’s general meeting at Wulf Recreation Center. John Dunlop will return for a full term as secretary and Monte Poague will continue serving as facilities and maintenance manager. Travis Ervick, racquets pro at Mount Vernon Canyon Club, was elected at large.

Bob Kerr, current VP, will step in as president for the term-limited Bob Taber. Bob T received a sometimes emotional tribute from other board members for his six years of dedication to making the club the professional, organized and successful operation it is.

Comments at the meeting left no doubt that the number one desire and goal of the club is more courts, both indoor and outdoor.

Incoming President Bob K has been scouring the mountain area for more than a year looking for land as well as buildings for indoor courts. Bob T assured members that no stone has been left unturned in the pursuit of court options, but the work is ongoing. Improvements to the courts at Marshdale seem to be on track for this coming summer. Stay tuned.

Bob T gave a comprehensive review of the club’s 2023 accomplishments, noting that he was especially proud of the club’s support of the Evergreen High School pickleball program run by PE teacher Beau Brake.

Bob announced that the number of tournaments in 2024 with be reduced to five with the removal of Men’s Doubles, which was the least attended and experienced the highest number of last-minute cancellations. The number of social events also will be reduced, due to generally declining attendance.

Club membership seems to be leveling off, with 267 at the end of last year and about the same number this year. However, newsletter subscriptions have reached 700, a 38% increase from last year’s 545. Sixty issues have been published so far this year.

Bob Taber addresses the 2023 EPC General Meeting. From left, Secretary Jeri Herskovitz, tournaments director Mick Pearce, re-elected Secretary John Dunlop, re-elected facilities manager Monte Poague and new President Bob Kerr.

Bob T began and ended his presentation with this photo of the first generation of Evergreen pickleballers. The initial local games were played in 2011 at Wulf.

Cash Pours In at Party

Jeri Herskovitz, EChO Director of Development Monica Carruth and Cherie Peterson

The generosity was out of control Wednesday when 65 EPC members and guests racked up $2,000 in donations to Evergreen Christian Outreach while talking pickleball, family, travel and who knows what else at the Holiday Gala and Benefit. That total far surpassed last year’s $1,270.

“They were just stuffing money in the jars,” EPC Treasurer/Consigliere Jeri Herskovitz said. “Had a few one hundred-dollar bills and a couple checks for $200. They spent a lot on raffle tickets.”

About 25 prizes were raffled off at The Wild Game, with Paddletek club paddles going to Neil Fischer and Nancy Hughes. Branded shirts, hats and a packable puffer vest were also on the prize list.

Jerry Beth Owen was the high bidder for a cool pickleball-themed painting donated by member Tamra Hall.

“Your gift comes at a critical time as we have seen an overwhelming number of people turning to EChO for assistance,” said a letter from EChO. “Your generous support plays a huge role in the success of our program and in the success of those we serve. Your compassion and kindness are appreciated beyond measure.”

Bob Fudge selects a raffle prize with Tamra' Hall’s donated painting in the foreground. John Dunlop emceed.

Limited Spots Left for Polar Pickleball Palooza

There are very limited spots remaining to play in the Polar Pickleball Palooza at EHS Saturday, Dec. 9, at 3 p.m. EPC’s Mick Pearce will serve as tournament director for the event, which will benefit the EHS lacrosse team.

“Several of your club's players have registered along with teachers, parents, lacrosse kids and coaches,” said parent co-organizer Tania Jo Gilbert. “It should be a really diverse group, which will be lots of fun.”

All ages are welcome to register for one of two levels, beginner and intermediate/advanced. Price is $65 per person. The price if registered as a team is $120. Registration will be closed when the remaining spots are filled.

Spectators are more than welcome, Tania Jo said. “There is no cost to attend, but any sort of donation at door or concessions would be much appreciated—none required.” There will be a small silent auction, concessions, music, door prizes and a Santa appearance.

“We have quite an ambitious fundraising goal to support our lacrosse program,” Tania Jo said. “The funds go toward transportation, gear, uniforms, scholarships and coaching.”

Hats Are Hot for Giving Season

’Tis the season to give EPC merch to yourself, your family and your friends. The branded goods are popular across the country, judging by orders, and they provide a possible way to get back that shirt you left hanging on a fence in Phoenix.

If a buyer is local, orders can be delivered in a day or two to your home or Wulf by board member Jim Mosby, who manages gear sales. He said hats are a popular choice, with more than 10 different colors available at $18 apiece.

Three Board Members Elected