The Weiser Elks Lodge #1683 has taken a proactive step to enhance recreational opportunities for the community, leveraging a successful grant application to fund improvements to local tennis courts for the popular sport of pickleball. The Lodge’s efforts were recently met with success, as they secured a $2,500 grant that will enable the City of Weiser Recreation Department to introduce pickleball lines and conduct necessary repairs on two tennis courts.
The driving force behind this initiative, Matt Smith, worked diligently to secure the grant. His commitment to community betterment led to a successful application, allowing the Weiser Elks Lodge to further support the area’s recreational opportunities. Smith’s tireless efforts exemplify the Lodge’s dedication to fostering a vibrant and active community.
Upon receiving the grant, Elks ER Dick Sullender presented it to Ken Anderson, the Director of the City of Weiser Recreation Department. This funding will facilitate the installation of dedicated pickleball lines on the tennis courts, effectively creating dual-use spaces that cater to both tennis enthusiasts and the growing pickleball community. To ensure harmony between the two sports, the pickleball court lines will be thoughtfully differentiated, likely in a light gray shade.
A noteworthy aspect of this project is the collaboration that ensued. While the tennis courts are city property, the idea received strong backing from the local tennis team, families, and coaches. This collective support extended beyond mere enthusiasm, as these stakeholders actively contributed to fundraising efforts and court resurfacing. Recognizing the shared use of the facility, Ken Andersen, overseeing the project, reached out to these groups to ensure that the enhancements wouldn’t disrupt their tennis matches.
Also present at the grant presentation ceremony was Darrel Krause, a longstanding member of the Elks. Having the three Elks present, underscored the Lodge’s enduring commitment to community development and engagement.
Pickleball, a sport that has been steadily gaining popularity across the nation, is finding its place in Weiser as well. The positive response from local residents who express interest in having dedicated pickleball courts highlights the demand for diverse recreational options. The Weiser Elks Lodge invites the broader community to join them in their efforts and become members, thereby contributing to the continued growth and enhancement of our community.
For those interested in connecting with the Weiser Elks Lodge #1683, inquiries can be directed to (208) 549-9922. As this project demonstrates, collaboration between community members, local organizations, and governing bodies can create lasting positive impacts, ensuring that residents have access to enjoyable and enriching recreational spaces for years to come.
