Steve Kuhn Partners with Bay Pickle to Transform Hong Kong Pickleball
- Pioneering Partnership with MLP Founder Steve Kuhn to Launch Hong Kong’s First Indoor Pickleball Social Club in Hong Kong
- Launch 12 Courts in Multiple Locations Across Hong Kong by End of 2024, On Track to Becoming the Largest Pickleball Organisation in Hong Kong
- Unveils New Pickleball Courts, Bar, and Academy to Bring Pickleball to the Heart of Hong Kong’s Sports Community
HONG KONG, Sept. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Bay Pickle, a pioneer in lifestyle sports and community-driven experiences, is proud to announce the grand opening of Bay Pickle, Hong Kong’s first-ever indoor pickleball social club, located in Causeway Bay. This launch is just the beginning of a bold, multi-phase expansion plan that aims to position Bay Pickle the premier destination for pickleball enthusiasts across Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area in China.
With plans to roll out eleven additional professional courts by the end of 2024 and beyond, Bay Pickle is set to lead a transformative movement in sport in the region. Combining top-tier facilities, inclusive programming, and social interaction, Bay Pickle is poised to become the largest pickleball organisation in Hong Kong.
A Groundbreaking Partnership: Steve Kuhn and Bay Pickle
Leading this revolutionary venture is Steve Kuhn, the visionary founder of Major League Pickleball (MLP), a collective synonymous with pickleball excellence in the United States. Much like the NBA’s transformative influence on basketball, MLP has played a pivotal role in propelling pickleball into the mainstream, making it one of the fastest-growing sports in America. Under Steve’s leadership, MLP has catapulted pickleball into the national spotlight, establishing a professional league akin to the NBA in basketball. In the U.S., MLP has not only elevated pickleball into a premier competitive sport but has also cultivated a vibrant ecosystem of fans, athletes, and communities, fostering a dynamic sports culture that is now recognized on a global scale. Steve’s investment in Bay Pickle marks the first step in bringing that same level of innovation and growth to Hong Kong and the broader GBA market in China.
The powerful collaboration between Steve Kuhn, Albert Fung and Ken Deng, Co-Founder of Bay Pickle, and the Founding Members Alex Chan and Jenny Wan, sets the stage for a transformative experience in Hong Kong’s sports scene. Together, they are creating a world of innovation, community, and excellence. Bay Pickle’s inaugural facility, boasting over 12,000 square feet of professional courts, represents a pioneering leap in pickleball engagement, promising an unparalleled pickleball and social experience.
Major League Pickleball (MLP) Founder and pickleball visionary Mr. Steve Kuhn, shared his excitement for the future of pickleball in Asia during the launch event, “My goal is to raise awareness of pickleball across Asia, starting right here in Hong Kong. With the potential inclusion of pickleball as an Olympic sport, we have a unique opportunity to elevate its profile and engage a new generation of players. I envision Bay Pickle as a cornerstone for this movement. Together, we can inspire countless individuals to pick up a paddle and join in the fun of this wonderful sport. The energy and inclusivity that pickleball brings is unmatched, and I believe Bay Pickle will be instrumental in fostering that spirit throughout Asia.”
Bold Expansion Strategy: Transforming Hong Kong into GBA’s Pickleball Hub
With its first-of-its-kind indoor facility in Hong Kong, Bay Pickle is not only redefining the boundaries of sport but also the social experience that comes with it. Pickleball’s inclusive nature, with easy access for players of all ages—from 6 to 86—brings people together, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie that transcends traditional athletic pursuits. More than just a sport, pickleball at Bay Pickle is about cultivating lasting connections, both on and off the court.
Riding high on the success of the Causeway Bay launch, exciting plans are underway to open a second indoor pickleball court in Kowloon by the end of 2024! And that is just the beginning—new locations are being explored in Ma On Shan, adding to an ever-growing lineup of 12 courts across Hong Kong, including new courts in a school in Tseung Kwan O. This expansion is all about making pickleball more accessible, bringing the sport to communities across Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area—so get ready for more places to play, compete, and connect.
Albert Fung, Co-founder of Bay Pickle, expressed his excitement for the launch, “The opening is just a beginning. The aim is to elevate pickleball to new heights in Hong Kong and beyond. The academy, facilities, and future expansions are all part of a larger vision to create a thriving pickleball ecosystem that fosters not just athletic skill, but a sense of community and belonging. As Bay Pickle prepares to launch additional courts in Q4 2024, it is poised to solidify its position as the premier destination for pickleball enthusiasts in the region. Embrace the spirit of innovation, connectivity, and athletic prowess as Bay Pickle paves the way for a new era in sports and social engagement in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area.”
Ken Deng, Co-founder of Bay Pickle, shared his vision for the academy, “As someone who has coached at six universities in the Bay Area, I’m passionate about developing young talent across Asia. The academy is designed to be a pipeline for aspiring athletes, and it’s exciting to see students excel in regional and international tournaments.”
Alex Chan, Founding member of Bay Pickle, shared his vision for how Bay Pickle is redefining the boundaries of sport and social experience, “Our goal is to not only provide top-tier facilities but also to cultivate a community where people can interact, share, and experience the joy of pickleball together. Whether you’re here to compete or just have fun, with over seven years of experience in F&B, I am excited to leverage my expertise to enhance the social dimension of pickleball at Bay pickle. By fostering connections through play, we will create an environment where meaningful relationships flourish enriching the experience for every member of our community.”
Jenny Wan, Founding Member of Bay Pickle, shared her vision for the strategic partnership with Steve Kuhn, “We are deeply honored that Steve has chosen the Bay Pickle team as his first partner in in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area, and we are committed to upholding this trust as we work together to grow the sport in the region. Together, we are not just building courts, but creating a vibrant, inclusive community where everyone—from beginners to seasoned players—can come together and experience the joy of pickleball.”
Bay Pickle Indoor Court: A First in Hong Kong
This September, the newly unveiled Bay Pickle Indoor Court is shaking up the scene in Hong Kong’s vibrant Causeway Bay district, bringing the rapidly growing sport of pickleball right to the city’s doorstep. This cutting-edge facility promises an unmatched pickleball experience, perfect for both casual players looking for fun and competitive athletes hungry for serious action.
Key Highlights of the Bay Pickle Indoor Court:
- Size and Location: Spanning 2,000 square feet, the indoor court is conveniently located in the bustling district of Causeway Bay, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. This prime location positions Bay Pickle as the go-to destination for pickleball in the region.
- Professional-Grade Facilities: The court features premium flooring designed for optimal play, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels. The court dimensions adhere to international standards, offering the perfect environment for both casual games and competitive training.
- Multi-functional Space: Beyond pickleball, the venue is designed to host a variety of events, including corporate team-building sessions, kids’ birthday parties and family gatherings, workshops and exclusive social gatherings.
- With a flexible layout, the space can be customized for different types of events, ensuring a unique and memorable experience for all attendees.
- Bar and Lounge Area: The venue also includes a stylish bar and lounge area, where players and guests can relax and enjoy a handpicked selection of drinks and snacks. Whether cooling off after an intense game or simply socializing with fellow pickleball enthusiasts, the bar offers a perfect complement to the sporting experience.
- Professional Coaching Team: Bay Pickle is home to a team of experienced and certified coaches, all of whom are passionate about growing the sport in Hong Kong. Personalized training sessions are available for players of all levels, from beginners to advanced athletes. Corporate team-building exercises, group lessons, and private coaching are also available.
- Community-Focused Environment: The indoor court is more than just a place to play pickleball; it’s a hub for the pickleball community. Regular events, meetups, and exclusive competitions foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie among players. From monthly social events to drop-in classes for beginners, the court is designed to be a welcoming space for everyone.
Bay Pickle Academy: Developing Future Champions
Bay Pickle Academy is dedicated to helping players take their game to the next level. The professional training regimen is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to become true champions. From perfecting drives and dinking to mastering drops and more, the dynamic curriculum covers all essential techniques. As players immerse themselves in the program, they will not only sharpen their technical skills but also enhance their overall athleticism and build confidence. The academy provides a supportive, growth-focused environment where athletes are encouraged to continually push their limits and achieve new milestones.
To cater to different interests and skill levels, two distinct programs are available. The Recreational Program is tailored for kids who want to have fun while learning the game in a relaxed, engaging setting. For those seeking a more competitive edge, the Elite Program is designed for U16 players with aspirations of professional play. Elite participants may even have the opportunity to represent the Pickleball Association of Hong Kong and compete for the championship at the 2024 WPC Hong Kong, scheduled to take place in Discovery Bay in November 2024. This prestigious event will bring together top players from across the region, paving the way for future success on the competitive stage.
Bay Pickle Club: Bay Pickle Membership Program
Pickleball enthusiasts could immerse themselves in the sport through the Bay Pickle Club, a unique, members-only experience. Membership benefits include monthly social events and pickleball meetups, drop-in pickleball classes for beginners and collaborations with local NGOs to promote wellness through the sport etc. They will enjoy exclusive access to an expanding network of pickleball venues and a robust community of players.
Development Roadmap: A Vision for Growth
Bay Sports is committed to expanding its brand footprint and community engagement through several strategic initiatives:
1. Digital Transformation and Innovation
A Web 3.0 and NFT strategy is being developed to create immersive digital experiences, enhancing fan and player engagement. This includes the development of digital collectibles and other interactive elements to connect with the community in new ways.
2. Sustainability and Corporate Partnerships
Bay Sports remains committed to aligning with ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals. Corporate partnerships are being explored to promote sustainability initiatives, ensuring that business growth benefits both the community and the environment.
The future is bright for Bay Pickle and the pickleball community in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area. With expansion plans, digital innovations, and a commitment to inclusivity, Bay Pickle is poised to become the largest Pickleball Social Club in the region. Public are invited to join in celebrating this exciting new chapter for Bay Pickle and the launch of Hong Kong’s premier indoor pickleball facility.
Bay Pickle
Address: Shop 1-2, G/F, The Consonance, 23 Jupiter Street, Tin Hau, Hong Kong
Opening Hours: From Monday to Sunday, 7am to 11pm
Enquiry: +852- 4608-3998
https://www.instagram.com/baypickle
#BayPickleCausewayBay #BayPickle #Pickleball #PickleballForAll #Sportstainment @baypickle
SOURCE Bay Pickle
Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/
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Metro Board to Consider Locally Preferred Alternative for Sepulveda Transit Corridor Project
Metro Board will consider Modified Alternative 5 as the Locally Preferred Alternative for the Sepulveda Transit Corridor Project on January 22, 2026, a major step toward improving transit between the San Fernando Valley and LA’s Westside.
On Thursday, January 22, 2026, at 10:00 AM, the Metro Board will consider selecting a Locally Preferred Alternative (LPA) for the Sepulveda Transit Corridor Project. This milestone could significantly improve mobility options between the San Fernando Valley and the of Los Angeles.
Proposed Alternative
After a technical evaluation and reviewing more than 8,000 public comments from the Draft Environmental Impact Report (Draft EIR) period, Metro staff has proposed Modified Alternative 5 as the LPA. This underground heavy rail line would run between the Van Nuys Metrolink Station and the E Line Expo/Sepulveda Station with a key connection to the G Line at Van Nuys Boulevard.
Modified Alternative 5 combines the benefits of Alternative 5—high ridership, frequent service, and shorter station construction sites—while avoiding geographic challenges in the Santa Monica Mountains. It also incorporates connectivity advantages from Alternative 6 along Van Nuys Boulevard, reducing the overall project length and anticipated costs, and increasing direct connections to Metro’s growing transit network.
Next Steps
If approved, Metro would advance project development for the LPA, including:
- Evaluating phasing and the Public/Private Partnership (P3) delivery model
- Identifying value engineering opportunities
- Refining designs to allow G Line connection at Van Nuys Boulevard
- Continuing environmental review and community outreach
Public Participation
Residents, businesses, and institutions are encouraged to provide feedback:
- Attend in person: Sign up on the tablets in the Metro Headquarters lobby before 9:45 AM.
- Email comments: BoardClerk@metro.net (comments received before 5 PM on January 21, 2026, will be sent to the full Board)
- Watch live: boardagendas.metro.net
Why This Matters
The Sepulveda Transit Corridor Project will connect the San Fernando Valley to the Westside, addressing the natural barrier of the Santa Monica Mountains and relieving congestion on the I-405. It will provide a fast, safe, and reliable alternative to the freeway and strengthen LA’s regional transit network.
Disclaimer: Station locations and construction timelines are subject to change. Project availability may vary. Public input is encouraged before final decisions are made.
Continuing Coverage: STM Daily News will continue to follow developments surrounding the Sepulveda Transit Corridor Project, including Metro Board decisions, environmental review updates, community input opportunities, and the project’s long-term impact on transportation across Los Angeles.
For the latest updates, in-depth reporting, and transportation-focused coverage, visit STM Daily News.
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Major Popeyes Franchisee Sailormen Files for Chapter 11 — What It Means for Restaurants and the Economy
Sailormen Inc., a major Popeyes franchisee operating 130+ locations in Florida and Georgia, filed for Chapter 11 on Jan. 15, 2026 amid rising costs and heavy debt. Many restaurants are expected to remain open as restructuring continues.
A major Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen franchise operator is heading to bankruptcy court — but the headline does notmean Popeyes corporate is filing, or that every restaurant involved is about to close.
Sailormen Inc., a Miami-based Popeyes franchisee that has operated in the system since 1987, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Jan. 15, 2026. The company operates more than 130 Popeyes locations across Florida and Georgia (some industry coverage puts the count at 136), making it one of the chain’s largest franchise groups in the region.
Franchisee filing, not a Popeyes corporate bankruptcy
This case involves Sailormen (the operator) — not Popeyes corporate and not parent company Restaurant Brands International.
In a message referenced in industry reporting, Popeyes leadership said Sailormen’s filing does not reflect the overall health of the Popeyes brand, and that a large majority of Sailormen’s restaurants are expected to remain open while the company restructures.
What pushed Sailormen into Chapter 11
Court-related summaries and industry coverage point to a familiar mix of pressures hitting restaurant operators:
- Inflation and higher operating costs (food, labor, and day-to-day expenses)
- Higher borrowing costs as interest rates climbed
- Liquidity strain, including reports of falling behind on rent and facing pressure from landlords and vendors
- Legal disputes, including vendor-related claims tied to unpaid balances
The failed store sale that worsened the situation
One key detail: Sailormen reportedly tried to sell 16 Georgia restaurants to stabilize finances. That deal fell through, and the company remained responsible for lease guarantees tied to those locations — a liability that can linger even if other stores are performing.
The debt and the lender pressure
Industry reporting describes Sailormen as carrying a heavy debt load — cited at about $130 million overall.
More detailed figures cited in coverage include:
- Over $112 million in unpaid principal loan balance
- Over $17 million in accrued interest and fees
Reporting also points to pressure from BMO (BMO Bank), described as Sailormen’s largest lender. In December 2025, BMO reportedly sought to appoint a receiver, a move that can displace management and take control of a company’s assets. Sailormen’s Chapter 11 filing allows the company to continue operating as a debtor-in-possession while it attempts to reorganize.
Why this matters for “Food” and “Our Economy”
This isn’t just a Popeyes story — it’s a snapshot of what happens when restaurant operators face higher costs, value-conscious consumers, and more expensive debt at the same time.
Chapter 11 is designed to reorganize a business, not automatically liquidate it. For customers, the near-term impact may be limited if most locations stay open.
STM Daily News will follow this story as it develops, including any updates on store operations, restructuring plans, and potential sales of locations.
Sources
- Restaurant Business: “A big Popeyes franchisee files for bankruptcy” https://restaurantbusinessonline.com/financing/big-popeyes-franchisee-files-bankruptcy
- Restaurant Dive: “Large Popeyes franchisee files for Chapter 11” https://www.restaurantdive.com/news/popeyes-frachisee-sailormen-files-chapter-11-bankruptcy-protections/809854/
For more food business headlines and how they connect to the real economy, follow STM Daily News.
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Food and Beverage
Diva Fam Inc. Announces Voluntary Recall of True Sea Moss “Sea Moss Gel Superfood” Products Due to Possible Health Risk
Diva Fam Inc. is recalling all True Sea Moss Sea Moss Gel Superfood flavors nationwide due to missing pH/temperature records and potential botulism risk.
Diva Fam Inc.. announced a voluntary recall of all lots and flavors of its True Sea Moss brand Sea Moss Gel Superfood due to a lack of required regulatory authorization and temperature monitoring records for pH-controlled food products, according to a company statement released January 9, 2026.
The company said the recall applies to products manufactured prior to January 9, 2026. The manufacture date (MFD) is indicated on the can lid in MM/YYYY format.
Why the products are being recalled
Diva Fam said the recall is related to missing required regulatory authorization and temperature monitoring records for certain pH-controlled food products. The company noted that pH-controlled foods that are not manufactured in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements may present a potential risk of microbial growth, including organisms that can produce toxins associated with botulism.
Botulism is a rare but serious illness that can affect the nervous system. Symptoms may include general weakness, dizziness, double vision, difficulty speaking or swallowing, and, in severe cases, difficulty breathing or muscle weakness.
Diva Fam said no illnesses or adverse health events have been reported in connection with the products subject to this recall to date.
Where the products were sold
The affected products were distributed nationwide through select retail locations, online via https://truеsеamоss.cоm/, and other distribution channels, according to the company.
Recalled products (all flavors, all lots)
The recall includes all flavors and sizes and batch numbers of True Sea Moss brand Sea Moss Gel Superfood packaged in 16 FL OZ (473 mL) glass jars, manufactured prior to January 9, 2026.
Recalled flavors and UPCs
| Flavor | UPC |
|---|---|
| Mango | 5065006235875 |
| Pineapple | 5065006235288 |
| Wildcrafted | 5065006235073 |
| Apple and Cinnamon | 5065006235776 |
| Elderberry | 5065006235189 |
| Passion Fruit | 5061033691882 |
| Blue Spirulina and Raspberry | 5065006235813 |
| Strawberry | 5065006235271 |
| Cherry | 5061033691264 |
| Mango and Pineapple | 5065006235301 |
| 5 Blends in 1 | 5061033690052 |
| Soursop | 5061033691875 |
| Lemon Pie | 5061033691271 |
| Orange | 5061033692926 |
How the issue was identified
The company said the matter was identified during a California Department of Public Health inspection that raised questions regarding regulatory authorization and related production records for certain distributed products. Diva Fam said it is cooperating fully with regulatory authorities and initiated the voluntary recall to ensure regulatory alignment.
The company said the recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
What consumers should do
- Discontinue use of the affected product.
- Follow the instructions provided by the place of purchase regarding product return or disposal.
- Contact the company for additional information (details below).
Consumer and media contact
Consumers seeking additional information may contact:
- Email: support@divafam.com
- Phone: (818) 751-3882
- Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time
Source: Diva Fam Inc. (PRNewswire, Jan. 9, 2026)
https://stmdailynews.com/culvers-thank-you-farmers-project-hits-8-million-donation-milestone/
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Ace Pickleball Club Launches National Player Development Series
Ace Pickleball Club launches a national Player Development Series with four training levels, plus free Intro to Pickleball clinics. Learn what’s included and how to sign up.
