Pickleball

The game of Pickleball was born in Seattle in the 70’s. The name came from the originator’s family dog named, “Pickles”. Pickles used to chase the rolling balls as the family played on their driveway.Now, the seniors of Spokane Valley are chasing pickle balls and having a fabulous time doing it!

A group of seniors worked together to create the newest program in Spokane Valley. The Pickleballers were able to obtain two donated sets of equipment which allowed them to create and implement their fun, healthy way of exercising.

Twenty-one seniors are now registered for pickleball. You will find a spirited group of 6 to 8 engaged in laughter, striking a waffle-like ball back and forth across a 34 inch high net. The paddles are about twice the size of a table tennis paddle. The folks achieve their goal of exercise and fun. They play Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-3pm for a dollar per person.



Ladies with Style

Our "Ladies with Style" (red hatters), meets once a month after our pancake breakfast and plan an activity during the month. They are booked thru Dec. with activities.  Two "ladies" are hostess each month for an activity of their choosing, whether it’s out to lunch or a fun program at the center. They even do the "red hat strut".



Hawaiian Luau

Our Luau came about as August is usually the month to go to a park and do the "brown bag bit".  Due to the fact that Washington weather is unpredictable we decided to use my home.  My house is on 6 lovely acres allowing room to explore, animals to watch and a roof if necessary! 

Sue Lindsey went hog wild with Hawaiian decorations.  She provided leis, extra sweets, and games with prizes.  Seven or our ladies made Christmas fabric balls, of course red & purple prints.  Linda Charneski, designer of a $10,000 Festival of Trees tree, was our instructor we were elated to have her expertise.  The highlight of the day was celebrating Gladys Aldrich's 90th  birthday; she even brought her own cake! 

Senior Focus Fashion Show

The City of University Place’s community festival, UPFest, takes place every summer.  As planning for the 2007 event began, it was identified that the senior population was not a focus.  As the Senior Center Supervisor I was asked to add a senior component to the UPFest.

The Senior Focus Fashion Show became possible through the collaboration of many.  The show became the entertainment for the Optimist Clubs annual fundraising breakfast, The Village Retirement Community provided models, an MC, much of the organization and a celebration lunch following the show. Rottel Clothing and Shoes provided attire for the senior models, and discounts to all involved.  The University Place Senior Center provided models, sound equipment, and behind the scenes support.

The joint efforts of all entities provided an event that was highly successful.  Those involved had a fabulous time while ensuring the senior population in University Place received recognition at our community’s festival.