Pickleball with the Police, Aug. 24

The Tehachapi Police Department is excited to announce the first "Pickleball with the Police" family fun evening on Thursday, Aug. 24, 6 to 8 p.m. We are inviting the community to come meet your police officers and new chief while trying out the fastest growing sport in America.

"I wanted to do something a little different from coffee with a cop and try having some fun with our community and play pickleball. The entire family can join us and enjoy an evening at TPD, we'll even supply all the gear," said Chief Richard Standridge.

This will be a great opportunity for kids and adults to play with and against your police officers and staff. If you haven't played pickleball, we will teach you, it's quick and an easy game to learn.

USA Pickleball certified instructor Carlin Gibbs will be on hand to show everyone how to play and get started. We will have three pickleball courts set up in the parking lot of the Tehachapi Police Department. We will also have some recent Police & Fire Olympic Pickleball Medalist on hand to help get you started as well.

Special thanks to Franklin Sports and USA Pickleball who are providing youth pickleball gear to the Tehachapi Police Department as part of their "Youth Kickstarter" grant program.

Pickleball is enjoyed by all ages, starting as young as 6 or 7 years old and played into your 80s. Pickleball is a low impact sport that promotes exercise in a social setting.

Marias Kitchen Mobile Restaurant will be parked nearby with great Mexican food for dinner. The Tehachapi Police Department is located at 220 W. C St.