| SUN LAKES LIFESTYLES | AUGUST 2023 | 61
Table Tennis/Ping Pong
Our fun-loving group came together and partied hardy in July at
the South Clubhouse. Music was provided by DJ John
Williams, and we were treated to a beautiful performance
by the Makua Hula Dancers, Sussy Arzubiaga, Donna
Kissing, Marlene Rosario, and Perla Williams. Custom
grilling was provided by director Gary Lile. We feasted
on hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad, Beyond Meat brats
and patties, and delicious potluck side dishes.
This month, our spotlight player is Billy Thompson
(photo inset). He is originally from Albuquerque, New
Mexico, and came to Sun Lakes in 2022. Here is his ping pong mini-
biography :
"I've been playing ping pong for so many years, I can't count them.
I started as a young kid playing in community centers and boys club
tournaments around the city. I got away from the sport for many
years, and then I got involved with the Golden Age Games, which
is like a mini-olympics for veterans, and now I have silver and gold
metals to show for it.
"I served a tour of duty with the U.S. Army in Vietnam,
1968-1969. I saw combat and had to stay in the hospital
for seven months. In my time, I have done multiple jobs,
everything from film processing tech, to crew chief and
operator for a steel company.
"I am a widower, married for over 30 years to a
wonderful lady from the Philippines, and I go back every
year to visit her side of the family."
We usually play Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, but
it is best to check the SLCC website or watch for notifications from the
Group Me app for updated schedule changes due to accommodating
other community activities. If there are any questions or concerns,
please contact Gary Lile at (805) 722-7427, 4lile@yahoo.com, or John
Williams at (951) 489-9737, jgwms.williams@gmail.com.
