CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - With a reading from Genesis, Father Eduino from Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Church recently blessed Carmichael Park’s new bocce courts. The occasion marked the official opening of a facility built by community partnerships during the pandemic.

A $5000 bequest from the estate of Italian-American bocce booster Shirley Pennington Simi got the ball rolling in 2020. Spearheaded by her children and friends, community fundraising aided the project. A Carmichael Parks Foundation contribution was icing on the tiramisu.

Although the ADA-compliant amenity boasts synthetic surfaces that allow all-weather play, the sun shone on opening day play. Free lessons and brunch were offered to more than 200 visitors. Adjacent to the courts, the Italian Cultural Center threw open doors to share food, music and folkloric dancing.

Carmichael Park is located at 5750 Grant Avenue. The courts are situated near the North Avenue park entrance. Learn more about CRPD amenities at www.carmichaelpark.com.