CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Because Carmichael Park’s bocce ball courts opened during the pandemic, no dedication ceremony lauded their completion. Fans of the game now plan a celebration to make up for lost time.

Lessons, brunch and a tournament will “reopen” the park facility on Saturday, October 15. Anyone may attend festivities. Adjacent to the courts, the Italian Cultural Center will throw doors open to share food, music and folkloric dancing. At the courts, free Continental breakfast begins at 10 am; lessons and a friendly tournament kicks off at 11; free play continues all afternoon.

The event also honors facility benefactor, Shirley Pennington Simi. The Carmichael woman’s dying wish was to see bocce courts in the park. Her 2018 estate bequest of $5000 got the ball rolling – Carmichael Park District, Carmichael Parks Foundation and community fundraising met the balance of costs.

A daughter of Tuscan immigrants, Shirley loved all things Italian. She died at the age of 75, having long lobbied for her favorite sport to be among community activities. Shirley’s daughter Teri O’ Sullivan, and her son, Todd Pennington, spearheaded fundraising to augment their mother’s gift. “Mom was so proud of her cultural heritage and bocce was part of that,” explains her daughter.

Court construction began in 2020. The ADA-compliant amenity boasts synthetic surfaced lanes that allow all-weather play. “I wish mom could be here for the celebrations,” says Teri O’Sullivan. “I know she’d be clapping her hands and saying ‘bravo, mia famiglia!’”

The event will be preceded with an October 14 on-court blessing by Our lady Of Assumption Priest Father Eduino Silveira.

Carmichael Park is located at 5750 Grant Avenue. The courts are located near the North Avenue park entrance. The Italian Cultural Center is located at 6821 Fair Oaks Boulevard. Learn more about CRPD amenities at www.carmichaelpark.com