Pickle Ball Fundraiser coming to Brooklyn, March 14

By J.O. Parker

​      What do Pork Burgers, Pork n Beans, Pickle Ball, Pickled Beets, Punch Bowl and Pumpkin Bars have in common?
      They are the menu for a fundraiser the Brooklyn Ruritan Club is hosting on March 14 to raise funds to bring two Pickle Ball courts to Brooklyn.
     The event will be held from 5-7 p.m. at the Brooklyn Ruritan building for a free will donation. Carry out will be available.
       Pickle ball is a rapidly growing, easy-to-learn paddle sport combining tennis, badminton, and ping-pong elements, played on a large court with a net. Key rules include mandatory underhand serves, the "two-bounce rule" (ball must bounce once per side), and a 7-foot non-volley "kitchen" zone. It is highly beneficial for cardiovascular health, bone density, and social interaction.
       The idea to build the courts came about at a recent Ruritan club meeting. Club members were asked to write down ideas for a project that would benefit the Brooklyn community. A pickle ball court was the top vote getter.
        Jim Foels, a member of the Brooklyn Ruritan Club, said an exact location of the new courts is not known at this time. The Ruritans are considering possible locations, but no decision has been made.
        Cost of the project is estimated to be around $20,000.
      If you are unable to attend the fundraiser, but would like to donate, send checks to the Brooklyn Ruritan Club, P.O. Box 271, Brooklyn, Iowa 52211.