Summerfield – Dozens of balloons rose into a sunny blue sky and floated above the rooftops Monday at Del Webb’s Spruce Creek Golf and
Country Club. Taking in the sight, Diane Lazdowski said, “I feel warm, inspired and happy to see so many people come out on such a beautiful day.” Lazdowski was commenting not only on the weather, but also on an exercise in community spirit as a huge crowd gathered at the active adult community to celebrate their lifestyle and help others. The balloons were released from the infield of the Veteran’s Park Ball Field to mark the beginning of the 2009 Del Webb Spruce Creek Senior Games for Charity. More than 500 people attended the opening ceremony, with many participating in an Olympic-style parade. More than 700 people are signed up to compete in 41 events, with the competition ending March 7, but the theme of these games is community involvement. “It’s about community, participation and getting more and more people involved for somebody else. It’s a give back,” said Karen Kelley, an event captain who marched with the Soduko Players. Kelley also is head of the committee that planned the closing ceremony, which will take place March 7. Checks will be presented to the Marion Therapeutic Riding Association and the Humane Society of Marion County. A committee visited several area charities and reported back to event planners before the charities were selected. “We wanted to donate to someone who did not receive funds from any government, state or city agency. We chose MTRA for the wonderful rehab work they do with children, young adults and seniors, and we were impressed with Marion County Humane Society because they are a no-kill shelter that is so responsible and creative with their funds,” said Lorraine Parker, head of the charity committee.
The games began Saturday with preliminary co-ed softball. During the events, participants compete for bronze, silver and gold medals. Events range from 3-on-3 basketball and beach volleyball, to chess and mah-jongg, and everything in between, such as bowling, putting, bocce, table tennis, swimming and weight lifting.