Rev. Jennifer Lambert, Senior Pastor, Sun Lakes United Methodist Church February often invites mixed emotions. For some, it carries reminders of love and connection. For others, it highlights absence—people we miss, routines that have changed, or seasons of life that feel quieter than we expected. Add to that the constant stream of news and commentary…
Category: February 2026
Religion, February 2026
Black History Month, Jesus, and the Faith That Sustained a People
Rev. Dr. Derrick Elliott, Pastor, Sun Lakes United Church of Christ When I was growing up, I rarely learned about the history of Black Americans. What I did learn often came in fragments, limited to a few familiar names or moments, separated from the deeper story of struggle, faith, and survival that shaped generations. Black…
February 2026, Sports
4th Annual Pickle Barrel Classic
The Sun Lakes Pickleball Club-IronOaks is the proud host of the Fourth Annual Pickle Barrel Classic, a premier tournament held at the IronOaks Racquet Center, one of Central Arizona’s finest facilities. This exciting tournament, which began in 2023, has quickly grown into a must-attend event for the local pickleball community. The tournament typically features Men’s,…
February 2026, Sports
Relishing Pickleball: Mastering the Spin Game
David Zapatka Spin is one of the most underrated game-changing skills. While beginners often focus on simply getting the ball over the net, intermediate and advanced players know that adding spin can create awkward bounces, force errors, and open up the court. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your offensive tools or add finesse to your…
February 2026, Sports
Sun Lakes Bocce Ball Club at Sisk Park
Kathy Hoff, Publicist The first half of the Sisk Park Bocce Club’s season was completed on Jan. 4, and divisional winners were honored at our awards potluck held at Sisk Park on Jan. 11. Below are the divisional winners of the first session of play: Division A: Tony and Maria Racano Division B: Charlan Gerrior…
February 2026, Sports
One of the Largest Clubs in Sun Lakes Continues Its Passion and Growth!
Rod Badgley In the southwest corner of Cottonwood Country Club sits one of the most picturesque pickleball settings in Arizona. Framed by shimmering lakes and historic trees, the courts are rarely quiet. Laughter, competition, encouragement, and the steady pop of pickleball paddles fill the air from morning through evening. What makes this scene remarkable is…
February 2026, Sports
Pocketing Fun and Friendship: The IronOaks Lady Breakers Rule the Billiards Room
Kim L. Hutchinson For residents of the active adult community of IronOaks at Sun Lakes, the week kicks off with a satisfying clack of the billiard balls. The IronOaks Lady Breakers gather every Monday and Tuesday morning, turning the community’s Billiards Room into a hub of friendly competition, skill-building, and camaraderie. A staple in the…
February 2026, Sports
Courtesy Counts: Why Small Gestures Make a Big Difference on the Tennis Court
Kwong Young, USPTA Tennis Professional, IronOaks Tennis Club Courtesy and basic politeness are cornerstones of good sportsmanship—on the tennis court and beyond. Simple gestures like holding a door open or letting a driver merge into traffic reflect respect and good character. Tennis is no different. One common yet often overlooked courtesy in tennis happens during…
February 2026, Sports
Tennis Is the Healthiest Sport in the World
Barb Jorgensen Tennis provides a unique combination of cardiovascular, strength, and cognitive benefits, making it a strong contender for the title of the world’s healthiest sport, according to research and organizations like the USTA. Increased Longevity: Tennis players can live significantly longer, with some studies showing nearly 10 years more than sedentary individuals, outperforming other…
February 2026, Sports
Cottonwood Tennis Club Women’s Monday League
Susie Dunn, Coordinator The Cottonwood Tennis Club (CTC) Women’s Monday League celebrated the conclusion of the Women’s 3.0/3.5 fall season on Dec. 15, marking 10 weeks of competitive play. The festive atmosphere was enhanced by warm weather, reaching 75 degrees, making it fun to see spring appear. The event features 20 regular players, including newcomer…