Community Events

Pickleball Camp Coming to the Y

The Grand River Area Family YMCA is hosting a Pickleball Camp on Jan. 3, 2025, to help kids beat the winter blues and stay active during their holiday break. This camp is perfect for players of all skill levels, offering a fun way to learn the basics or improve existing skills in the fast-growing sport of pickleball. Designed for children ages 5 and up, the camp features two sessions: 10 a.m. to noon for ages 5–8 and 1-3 p.m. for ages 10 and up. It will take place in the YMCA North Gym and costs $10 for members and $15 for program participants.

Pickleball, a blend of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, is easy to learn and provides a great combination of exercise and fun. Camp participants will engage in drills, games, and challenges designed to sharpen their skills and encourage friendly competition. The YMCA staff promises a “dill-lightful” experience for all attendees, whether they are new to the game or seasoned players looking to enhance their abilities. Families are encouraged to register early to secure their spot. For more information or to sign up, contact the Grand River Area Family YMCA in Chillicothe.

Ring in 2025 with the Peppy Promenaders at Annual New Year’s Eve Square Dance

The Peppy Promenaders Square Dance Club invites the community to celebrate the end of the year at their annual New Year’s Eve Square Dance. The event, a beloved tradition spanning over 30 years, will take place at the Grand River Multi-Purpose Senior Center, located at 607 W. Business 36 in Chillicothe.

The festivities will kick off on Dec. 31, 2024, at 9 p.m. and continue into the early hours of the new year, ending at 12:30 a.m. Guests can look forward to an evening of Mainstream, Plus, and Line Dancing, led by a special trio of favorite callers: Don Boyer, Leroy Conrad, and Kenny Bailey.

Attendees will also enjoy light refreshments, a sparkling cider toast at midnight, and a delightful serving of biscuits and gravy at 12:05 a.m. The evening promises fun, games, and a welcoming atmosphere for both seasoned dancers and newcomers.

Admission is $7 per individual, $14 per couple, and $3.50 for youth. All are welcome to join in the celebration and dance their way into the new year with friends old and new.

Start 2025 on the right foot—literally!

Fast Lane Bowling Center Kicks Off 2025 with New Year’s Day Tournament

The Fast Lane Family Entertainment Center in Chillicothe invites bowling enthusiasts to start the new year with a bang at the 2025 New Year’s Day Bowling Tournament, presented by Father and Son Construction, LLC. This highly anticipated event promises thrilling competition, great prizes, and a festive community atmosphere.

The tournament will take place Jan. 1, 2025, starting at 2 p.m. Participants will compete in a singles 10-pin format, with five games played on a non-traditional house pattern. The entry fee is $40, which includes $15 for lineage and $25 for the prize fund. The top five bowlers will receive payouts, with handicap scores calculated at 80% of 190 (with a maximum of 30 pins).

To add to the excitement, a step ladder format will be used with a 1:4 ratio, and door prizes will be given out throughout the event. With sponsorship by Josh McElwee of Father and Son Construction, the prize fund is especially generous this year, offering participants even more incentive to bring their A-game.

For additional details or to register, call 660-707-1700.

Diamond Tours Trip Meeting

Diamond Tours is hosting a meeting beginning at 2 p.m., on Jan. 4 at the Walsworth Community Center in Marceline to discuss upcoming trips to San Antonio, Texas; Charleston, South Carolina and other future trips.

Peppy Promenaders Square Dance Club Hosts Dance Lessons

Peppy Promenaders are offering square dance lessons every Thursday from 7-9 p.m., at the Grand River Multi-Purpose Senior Center. The first class is free, then classes cost $3 for adults and $1.50 for youth. For more information, call Don at 660-973-2338.

Chillicothe PTO Offers Golden Parking Pass Raffle to Benefit CES

The Chillicothe Elementary School (CES) PTO has kicked off an exciting opportunity for parents and guardians: a chance to win the coveted Golden Parking Pass for the 2025 Spring Semester. This pass will allow the winner to skip the pick-up and drop-off line chaos from Jan. 7-May 16, 2025.

Here’s How It Works

Eligibility: All parents/guardians of CES K–5 students (including PTO members) can participate.

Raffle Details

• $5 for 1 ticket

• $20 for 5 tickets

• $50 for 20 tickets

Tickets can be purchased online through the PTO’s Givebutter link. The deadline to enter is Jan. 6, 2025 and the winner will be announced Jan. 6 via phone.

Proceeds from the raffle will go directly to support PTO initiatives that benefit Chillicothe Elementary School. It’s a win-win: one lucky family gets a prime parking spot for months, and the community comes together to support local education.

Don’t miss a chance to claim the Golden Parking Pass. To purchase tickets, visit: https://givebutter.com/ct/TYBF.

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