The YMCA is All in on Pickleball
The game of pickleball has become extremely popular in physical education classes in Montgomery County Public Schools. The rising popularity of the sport has led to several pickleball courts popping up across the county. Now, the YMCA is getting in on it, starting with both MoCo locations (Bethesda and Silver Spring).
Alex Tsironis, the physical education content specialist at North Bethesda Middle School (also the founder of The MoCoShow) told us that he was first introduced to the sport 4 years ago when he started teaching it. It quickly became one of the most popular activities in all P.E. classes at the school.
The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington will launch what will become one of the region’s largest Pickleball programs. The Y’s Pickleball program will open with more than 20 courts throughout the region this year and twice that number by the end of 2022. Pickleball will be offered at most Y locations beginning with YMCA Bethesda-Chevy Chase, YMCA Silver Spring and YMCA Arlington Tennis and Squash Center. Participants can look forward to free open houses, demonstrations, tournaments, clinics and opportunities for volunteers to serve as league ambassadors. An open house will take place on Thursday, May 20th at YMCA Silver Spring from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.
Pickleball was created in 1965 by Congressman Joel Pritchard, Barney McCallum and Bill Bell during a summer vacation. It was an attempt to entertain bored children using whatever equipment came to hand. Now, decades later the sport has grown across the nation. Pickleball combines elements of badminton, tennis, and ping-pong. It can be played using relatively inexpensive paddles and plastic balls, on existing tennis courts (although the courts are outlined for Pickleball, which are badminton-sized.)
“The response to Pickleball has been overwhelming by our membership. Pickleball is an inclusive and social sport that allows players to get outdoors, have fun and work out. We are proud that the Y will have a dedicated spaces that allows for individuals to meet other people and families to connect more. Pickleball is the perfect pandemic sport since people can still socially distance and get great exercise both outdoors and indoors at an extremely affordable price” said Pamela Curran, Executive Vice President and COO for the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington.
According to USA Pickleball, the sport is now played by over 3.3 million people. The Y’s Pickleball monthly calendar of events will be released in a few weeks and more information will be available atwww.ymcadc.org.
Featured photo courtesy of the City of Rockville.
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17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival
Now in its 17th year, the Kensington Day of the Book Festival is a family-friendly street festival featuring 150+ renowned authors, poets, and literary organizations. Enjoy live music on five stages, special guest speakers, military veteran writers and comedians, poetry readings, cookbook demos, children's program, and much more.
Admission is free, and attendees will also be able to explore a marketplace of books and food offerings from local vendors.
Not your average book festival! This festival offers something for everyone!
17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival
Sunday, April 21, 2024, 11am-4pm (held rain or shine!)
Howard Avenue, Kensington, MD 20895
www.dayofthebook.com
Instagram: @kensingtonbookfestival
Contact: Elisenda Sola-Sole, Festival Director
301-949-9416 (text preferred)
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
