Image Up Advertising & Design

52 | SUN LAKES LIFESTYLES | APRIL 2020 | Honing Your Skills With Banter & Raucous Remarks As we all know, there must be proper etiquette on the courts and some of us do try to be discreet about it. Some like their expletive in a foreign language, which allows one to be vociferously strong in tone without offending anyone. So, the German word, "Scheisse" would be acceptable. Our wee lassie might be outspoken in Gaelic, or say under her breath, "Shite," which, when pronounced like the Irish, has a long "i." Hungarian Claire could fool us all with any expletive, as the language is incomprehensibly difficult! We certainly know our American opponent with expressions like "God bless America" (Joy) and "Cupcake" and "Fudgsicle" (Marlene) as they harken back to the good ole' days of innocence. Vasu has several remarks, such as "Do over! Do you want to give up? We're going to win this one!" and the rare times he misses, he softly says, "Oh no." Miller is commonly known to say, "Booga Booga" and "Ooohhh," as well as "Feed the monkey." Now is that latter expression referring to himself or others? With Santa Baby Karl, we shall never know. By the way, at a Christmas party, he played the part of Santa Baby when Suzanne Strauss, dressed in t-shirted lingerie and a furry cape, danced around him singing Santa Baby with flashes of eye rolling on his part. At any rate, we certainly got to know those two actors better! Then there is banter. The group that tends to banter the most is truly the most fun! While others on the court want "Silence!" (I kill you… couldn't help but borrow from Achmed, Jeff Dunham's puppet). Frankly, the plays may be less accurate, but the conversing is more hearty and a lot more challenging. Try hitting a ball in the middle of a joke! So, for those who want silence, think of it as training, and let the good times roll! And remember… you are honing your skills with banter and can only get better as you become the on-court comedian. Ta Tah! Demo paddles are available. Come out and see what it's all about, or call Pat or Michelle Carter at (909) 747-5851. Come out on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays (free for Pop and Pickleball), and Sundays from 8 am to 10 am to intermingle with some real characters and all those pop tennis wisecrackers! Table Tennis/Ping Pong We play Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 4 to 6 pm, and Sat., 10 am to 12 noon in the Main Clubhouse Ballroom (normally). Because the Ballroom is such a popular venue for so many varied events, our time slot sometimes gets canceled. Therefore if you are not a regular attendee please refer to the Sun Lakes website at sunlakescc.com and click on "Recreation" then click on "Classes," and finally click on "Table Tennis Group" for the current months up to date schedule. You can also check the Main Clubhouse events board across from the recreation desk or call the reception desk at (951) 845-2191 for that days calendar. We have all skill levels currently participating and welcome all new comers. We have several newer quality tables, and all the equipment is provided free by the Sun Lakes Recreation Department. A fun way to exercise! Please come give us a try. There are no fees. Laced tennis shoes required - no exceptions! For info contact Bruno at (951) 797-0357. Do you enjoy playing the billiard game of 8 Ball? If you do, come join us. All Sun Lakes residents are welcome to practice with us Mondays through Saturdays. We normally draw for partners at noon, then play to around 2 pm. There is no cost to join our group. However, if you elect to join a team, there is a $15 competition fee per three-month season. Eight teams compete every Thursday; four at 9 am and the other four at 1 pm in our Main Clubhouse Billiards Room. For a fun afternoon of friendly competition, come watch us play. For further information, please contact Barry Sorensen at (951) 402-4020 or email jobear15@sbcglobal.net.

• Cover