Connect with us

Senior Pickleball Report

Discover an Elevated Spring Break Vacation at Four Seasons Resort Orlando

Published

on

Splash into family fun at the five-acre water park, savor Michelin-starred dining and enjoy Disney connectivity

ORLANDO, Fla. /PRNewswire/ — Spring break is just around the corner, and the warm spring sunshine and heated five-acre waterpark beckons families to enjoy an unforgettable getaway at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort. Recognized as the No. 1 Best Hotel and No. 1 Best Resort in Walt Disney World according to U.S. News & World Report, marking the ninth consecutive year of being awarded a top ranking, the Resort offers incredible activities for kids of all ages and rejuvenating relaxation for parents. Nestled within 26 sprawling acres of lush Florida woodlands and tranquil lakeside scenery, in addition to the waterpark with lazy river, splash zone, and water slides, Four Seasons Orlando features an all-day complimentary kids club, the only adult pool within Walt Disney World Resort, Michelin-starred rooftop Capa Steakhouse and much more.

Discover an Elevated Spring Break Vacation at Four Seasons Resort Orlando 

Experience a spring break getaway with incredible activities for the whole family to enjoy at Four Seasons Resort Orlando, named the No. 1 Best Hotel and No. 1 Best Resort in Walt Disney World according to U.S. News & World Report.

Fun In The Sun
Guests of all ages will enjoy discovering “Explorer Island,” the Resort’s expansive water park featuring a winding lazy river with cascading waterfalls, a gradually sloping zero entry family pool, an interactive splash zone, two exhilarating water slides and more. Teens will stay entertained at “The Hideout” featuring the latest gaming systems such as virtual reality, multi-player PAC-MAN, interactive video table games and more. A multi-purpose turf court and basketball court provide even more options for active recreation, as well as table tennis, billiards, and foosball found at the “Ruinous Mansion” – serving as homebase for Kids For All Seasons, the Resort’s complimentary kids camp available daily for children ages 4 to 12. 

Children will have a blast at Kids For All Seasons, with a packed day of twice daily supervised swimming and indoor and outdoor activities designed by Sarah Peltier, Director of Recreation. Peltier brings an always-sunny and imaginative disposition to craft fun and creative activities. “It’s always a rewarding experience to create special memories for our little guests,” says Peltier. In addition to traditional poolside entertainment such as air brush tattoos, hair wraps, and balloon artistry, Kids For All Seasons offers daily activations including family game nights, dive-in movies at the family pool and much more. Teens will enjoy special evening activities such as nighttime scavenger hunts throughout Explorer Island, karaoke at The Hideout, and pickleball tournaments.

Peltier, being the oldest of 13 siblings from a blended household, stresses the importance of balancing family time when on vacation. She says, “Quality time spent together is precious, and giving each family member the freedom to recharge with their own resort experiences makes the rest of the vacation journey that much more enjoyable.”

Other fee-based activities are also offered, such as Explorer Island Takeover from 5-8pm and Teen Island Takeover from 8-11pm on Saturday nights, where parents can drop off kids for a few hours, to enjoy a romantic dinner. 

Relax and Restore
While kids are entertained at Kids For All Seasons, parents can retreat to the 18-treatment room spa, offering a wide array of innovative treatments including Ayurvedic Healing, Vibrational Sound Therapy, IV and IM Vitamin Vitality treatments, and private meditation sessions in the Somadome, a cocoon of healing lights and sounds utilizing binaural beats, color therapy and energy medicine with magnets and crystal therapy. The Spa offers expansive indoor and outdoor relaxation lounges including a co-ed tranquility terrace, solarium with zero-gravity wave loungers, steam rooms and al fresco whirlpools where guests can unwind pre or post treatment, or at any time during their resort stay. “The purpose of vacation is to leave feeling rested and rejuvenated, and we give guests the opportunity to do just that within the sanctuary of our Spa,” says Derek Hofmann, Senior Director of Spa.

More relaxation awaits at the aptly named Oasis pool, exclusive for guests ages 21 and up. The chic, infinity-edge pool is lined with swaying palms, private cabanas and chaise lounges, complete with poolside cocktail service.

For those who wish to stay active during their spring getaway, the resort offers three Har-Tru tennis courts and a variety of clinics, as well as a 24-hour fitness center featuring Peloton® bikes, on-demand digital classes, and daily complimentary live fitness classes ranging from yoga to boot camp. Private instruction is also available, including personal Pilates reformer sessions guided by the Resort’s talented fitness instructors.

Golfers will love the 18-hole championship golf course at Four Seasons Golf and Sports Club Orlando. Whether seeking challenging play fit for professionals or family fun on the Par 3 six-hole short course and 18-hole putting course, guests are sure to enjoy an incomparable golf experience within the picturesque setting of the Tom Fazio-designed course, a certified Audubon Sanctuary featuring varying elevations, abundant wildlife and protected wetlands.

Advertisement
Get More From A Face Cleanser And Spa-like Massage

In addition to enjoying the immaculate spring weather outdoors, guests can retreat to the resort and enjoy shopping signature trunk shows with designer appearances at Wardrobe, the resort’s luxury boutique featuring designer apparel and fine jewelry.

Culinary Experiences
After a day spent poolside or exploring the nearby Walt Disney World Theme Parks, there’s no better way to refuel than with a Michelin-starred dinner at the rooftop Capa Steakhouse. Helmed by Capa Chef Malyna Si, the only female chef overseeing a Michelin-starred restaurant in Central Florida, the 17th floor restaurant features Spanish-influenced cuisine with a delectable array of tapas, locally-sourced seafood and wood-fired prime cuts including the pluma Iberico pork loin Si sourced from Extremadura, a prime 12-ounce bone-in filet, and a 16-ounce bone-in New York strip, both from Creekstone Farms in Kansas. There’s also a 12-ounce delmonico and a 16-ounce short rib, both PlatinumX wagyu level certified, a level above prime, from Jackman Ranch in Texas. Si takes pride in offering an elevated menu with unique and rare dishes, saying, “The practicality of my role is that everybody has to eat; the beauty of being a chef lies in the boundless possibilities to create.”

In addition to these mouthwatering options, there are several signature dishes that are not to be missed, including the pan con tomate small plate, the bacon-wrapped and Marcona-almond stuffed datiles, and the cinammon sugar-dusted Churros de Madrid. The incredible cuisine is matched only by Capa’s stunning ambiance, featuring two outdoor terraces with views of the Walt Disney World Resort fireworks spectaculars.

At Ravello, the resort’s modern Italian-restaurant which was also included in the Michelin Guide Miami, Orlando and Tampa, guests will delight in authentic Italian cuisine crafted by Executive Chef Fabrizio Schenardi, a native of Torino, Italy. Delicious pastas and pizza doughs are prepared with flour imported straight from Italy, and Fabrizio’s homemade limoncello is the perfect way to end any Italian feast. Plus, Ravello welcomes special guests every Thursday and Saturday morning, as well as select Tuesdays, for Good Morning Breakfast with Goofy & His Pals.

With six different on-site dining establishments featuring global flavors from a diverse culinary team, guests are sure to find something to satisfy every palate.

The Most Magical Place on Earth
There is no better time for guests to experience the magic of the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World® Resort, coming to an end March 31, 2023. However, guests can enjoy the excitement of the Disney Theme Parks all spring long with many on-site conveniences, including access to the Resort’s lobby level Disney Planning Center. Staffed by a Disney Cast Member, the Disney Planning Center team offers complimentary assistance with all Disney needs, including assisting guests with purchasing Park tickets conveniently on site, making Disney Park Pass and Disney dining reservations, and much more. Guests can venture to the nearby Disney Theme Parks with complimentary transportation in a luxury motor coach, and enjoy even more time to experience the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration with 30 minutes Early Park Entry to any Theme Park of choice daily.

Visit www.fourseasons.com/orlando/offers for more information.

SOURCE Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort

Author


Discover more from Daily News

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Continue Reading
Advertisement Sports Research

Sports

Ace Pickleball Club Launches National Player Development Series to Elevate Skills for Every Level of Play

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.

Published

on

AdobeStock 746887743

Ace Pickleball Club Launches National Player Development Series to Elevate Skills for Every Level of Play

Pickleball keeps pulling in new players for one simple reason: it’s easy to start and hard to stop. But once the “first game” excitement wears off, a lot of people hit the same wall—How do I actually get better without guessing what to practice next? Ace Pickleball Club (APC) just rolled out a clear answer. On December 17, 2025, Ace Pickleball Club announced the nationwide launch of its new Player Development Series—a four-stage training pathway built to help players learn fundamentals, build consistency, and progress toward competitive play over time.

A four-stage pathway built for real progression

APC’s Player Development Series is structured as a multi-tier program with four progressive levels of instruction, designed to meet players where they are and give them an obvious “next step.” Here’s how the series breaks down:
  • Starter Series (available now nationwide): An eight-session program focused on core fundamentals, guided drills, and confidence-building play.
  • Essentials Series (select locations now; nationwide in early 2026): Built to help players develop consistency and prepare for intermediate-level games.
  • Performance Series (rolling out first half of 2026): Focused on strategy, court awareness, and competitive growth.
  • Precision Series (rolling out first half of 2026): The final stage, centered on fine-tuning technique and advanced shot-making.
The big win here is clarity. Instead of bouncing between random clinics or “YouTube tips of the week,” players get a structured development ladder—beginner to advanced—with a consistent framework.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Beginner-friendly entry point still available (and free)

Alongside the new series, APC will continue offering its Intro to Pickleball clinic at all locations at no cost. This is a smart move because it removes the most common barrier for new players: feeling unprepared. According to APC, the Intro clinic provides everything needed to step onto the court, including:
  • Paddles
  • Balls
  • A welcoming, skilled instructor
  • A beginner-friendly introduction to rules, movement, and the spirit of the game
For anyone curious about pickleball but hesitant to jump into open play, that “no-cost, no-pressure” on-ramp matters.

Why APC is betting on development right now

Pickleball’s growth is bringing in players with wildly different goals—some want a fun weekly workout, others want to climb into competitive brackets. Joe Sexton, President of Ace Pickleball Club, said the new series is designed to serve that full range: “Our Player Development Series gives every member a clear next step, whether they’re touching a paddle for the first time or working toward advanced competitive play.” He also emphasized that APC is aiming to strengthen the community-first culture that keeps people coming back.

Included as part of the member experience

APC says the Player Development Series is included as part of the Ace Pickleball Club Member experience, reinforcing its mission to keep the sport accessible, fun, and growth-oriented across ages and skill levels.

About Ace Pickleball Club

Ace Pickleball Club is a national pickleball franchise built around a member-focused model and all-inclusive pricing. APC promotes an “open play on demand” approach—meaning players don’t need to coordinate groups, plan far in advance, or reserve a spot just to get on the court. APC currently has 22 locations open nationwide, with more planned for 2026. Clubs feature professional-grade cushioned courts and a climate-controlled playing environment.

How to learn more or sign up

To learn more or register for a Player Development Series session, visit:

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/

Authors

  • Rod Washington

    Rod: A creative force, blending words, images, and flavors. Blogger, writer, filmmaker, and photographer. Cooking enthusiast with a sci-fi vision. Passionate about his upcoming series and dedicated to TNC Network. Partnered with Rebecca Washington for a shared journey of love and art.

    View all posts
  • Michael J Sliwa

    Over the past few years, Mike has become an insane pickleballer (pickler), fortunately for the senior 50+ crowd he started his show, Sleeve's Senior Pickleball Report. He spends the rest of his time speaking on social justice and spending time with his beautiful wife, Karen, and enjoying simple living in his ger/yurt.

    View all posts

Discover more from Daily News

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Continue Reading

Sports

Paddletek Group Launches: What the New Multi-Brand Merger Means for Performance Pickleball

Paddletek forms the Paddletek Group with ProXR, Padeltek, and Yobow—plus a new performance paddle line coming next month.

Published

on

Paddletek announces the Paddletek Group merger uniting Paddletek, ProXR, Padeltek, and Yobow to advance performance pickleball paddles

Pickelball multi-ethnic female team with concentrated expression about to play in an outdoor court

Paddletek Group Launches: What the New Multi-Brand Merger Means for Performance Pickleball

Pickleball’s growth has been loud, fast, and impossible to ignore. Now the equipment side of the sport is starting to consolidate in a way that could shape what players swing next season. On Dec. 19, 2025, Paddletek announced the creation of the Paddletek Group, a new umbrella organization that brings together Paddletek, ProXR, Padeltek, and Yobow under one platform. The goal: accelerate innovation in high-performance pickleball paddles (and padel rackets), expand athlete support, and build a bigger engine for growth as both sports continue to surge.

What is the Paddletek Group?

At its core, the Paddletek Group is a multi-brand merger designed to unify product development, athlete partnerships, and go-to-market momentum across several recognized names. The announcement positions the new entity as a “unified platform” for:
  • Innovation in performance equipment for pickleball and padel
  • Support for sponsored athletes
  • Scaling growth as participation expands
In practical terms, it’s a move toward building a larger, more coordinated equipment company that can compete at the top end of the market.

Why this merger matters to players

Most players don’t wake up thinking about corporate structure. They wake up thinking about feel, control, pop, spin, and whether their paddle is helping or hurting them in tight points. This merger matters because it combines two distinct strengths:
  • Paddletek’s legacy in performance design and manufacturing
  • ProXR’s performance-driven approach
According to the release, the combined platform is built to help “every player elevate their game,” which is a big promise—but also a clear signal that the group is aiming at serious players, not just casual entry-level demand.

A milestone moment for the brand (and the sport)

Curtis Smith, Founder of Paddletek, framed the move as bigger than a business headline. He said the formation of the Paddletek Group “marks an important milestone” for the brand and for pickleball and padel, adding that bringing the brands together “amplifies our ability to innovate to support both recreational and elite players.” That “recreational and elite” line is worth paying attention to. It suggests the group wants to build a product pipeline that spans:
  • approachable paddles for the everyday player
  • high-performance models for advanced and tournament-level athletes
Dreambreaker: A Pickleball Story — A Closer Look at the Documentary and Its Uncredited Voice

The numbers: one million paddles, made in the USA

Paddletek also highlighted a major manufacturing and brand milestone: more than one million paddles sold, with products “proudly made in the USA.” In a category where manufacturing origin is part of the brand story (and sometimes part of the buying decision), that’s not a throwaway detail—it’s a positioning statement. The release also notes that, with the merger, the Paddletek Group becomes the No. 2 paddle brand among advanced players, citing the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA).

What’s coming next: a new performance paddle line

The most immediate product news is this: the Paddletek Group says it will introduce a new performance paddle line next month, combining “the strength and expertise from both great brands.” While the release doesn’t share specs, pricing, or model names, it does set expectations that this won’t be a minor refresh. It’s being framed as a true “combined” line—likely the first public proof point of what the merger unlocks.

Padel expansion is clearly on the roadmap

Pickleball may be the headline, but padel is not an afterthought here. The group says plans are underway to expand innovation into padel, which is seeing rapid growth globally. For equipment companies, padel represents a bigger international footprint and a different performance profile—meaning more R&D opportunity and, potentially, a broader athlete ecosystem.

The leadership angle: Thirty-5 Capital steps into the spotlight

The release also spotlights Thirty-5 Capital’s role. Ron Saslow, Founder and Managing Partner at Thirty-5 Capital, is named CEO of the Paddletek Group. Saslow described the moment as “exhilarating” given the global growth of pickleball and padel, and said the group brings together “respected brands with complementary strengths, and tremendous technologies to create an even bigger, bolder, better company.” Private equity involvement doesn’t automatically mean “good” or “bad” for players—but it often means the company is gearing up to scale: more product launches, more marketing, more athlete signings, and more distribution.

What to watch as this rolls out

If you’re a player, coach, or gear-head, here are the practical questions this announcement raises:
  • Will the new paddle line create a true performance leap, or mostly consolidate existing tech?
  • How will athlete rosters evolve across Paddletek and ProXR sponsorships?
  • Will “made in the USA” remain central as the group scales?
  • How aggressively will the group push into padel, and will that influence pickleball R&D priorities?
Either way, the formation of the Paddletek Group is a clear signal: the performance equipment race is accelerating, and the brands with the deepest innovation pipelines are positioning themselves now for what pickleball becomes next.

Learn more


Disclosure: This article is based on a press release distributed via PRNewswire on Dec. 19, 2025. Sources: PRNewswire press release page: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/introducing-paddletek-group-advancing-the-future-of-performance-pickleball-302646989.html

The Sports section of STM Daily News is your ultimate destination for all things sports, catering to everyday fans and dedicated enthusiasts alike. We cover a wide range of topics, from the thrill of amateur competitions to the excitement of semi-professional and professional leagues. Our content delves into physical and mental fitness, providing insights and tips that help individuals elevate their performance, whether on the field or in their personal wellness journeys. Stay informed and inspired as we explore the dynamic world of sports, celebrating both the passion of the players and the joy of the fans.

https://stmdailynews.com/sports/


Discover more from Daily News

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Continue Reading

Food and Beverage

White Castle’s House of Crave: The Ultimate White Elephant Gift Guide for 2025

White Castle’s House of Crave has the ultimate White Elephant gifts for 2025—from viral Crocs to nostalgic plush dragons. Find steal-worthy, laugh-inducing gifts that’ll win your holiday exchange. Free shipping Dec 10!

Published

on

Last Updated on December 5, 2025 by Daily News Staff

White Castle branded Crocs clogs in classic style with White Castle logo, one of the top White Elephant gift ideas from House of Crave online store for holiday 2025

White Castle crocs are just one of many items available at White Castle’s House of Crave online store. They make ideal white elephant gifts!

 

White Castle’s House of Crave: The Ultimate White Elephant Gift Guide for 2025

If you’ve ever been stuck staring at a gift table wondering which White Elephant present to steal, you know the struggle. The best gifts? They’re the ones that make people laugh, spark conversation, and get snatched up twice before the game even ends. This year, White Castle is stepping into the White Elephant arena with a lineup that’s equal parts hilarious and surprisingly practical. Their House of Crave online store is now stocked with holiday gifts that’ll have your friends and family fighting over who gets to take home the White Castle Crocs. Yes, you read that right. White Castle Crocs.

What Makes a Great White Elephant Gift?

Before we dive into White Castle’s offerings, let’s talk strategy. The best White Elephant gifts hit three key notes:
  • Unexpected: Nobody sees it coming, and that’s what makes it memorable
  • Conversation-starter: It gets people talking, laughing, or scratching their heads
  • Steal-worthy: It’s so good (or so ridiculous) that people actually want it
White Castle’s House of Crave nails all three. Whether you’re shopping for your office party, family gathering, or friend group exchange, these gifts deliver the perfect mix of quirky and functional.

Top White Elephant Picks from White Castle’s House of Crave

White Castle Crocs

Let’s start with the obvious winner. These aren’t just any Crocs—they’re White Castle Crocs. Cozy, comfortable, and guaranteed to turn heads at the grocery store or your next backyard BBQ. Perfect for the Craver in your life who takes their fast-food loyalty seriously. Why they’ll get stolen: They’re practical footwear with a sense of humor. Plus, Crocs are having a major moment right now.

Willis the Dragon Plush

If you grew up in the ’80s, you might remember Willis the Dragon from White Castle’s kids’ meals. This plush green dragon is pure nostalgia wrapped in soft, huggable fabric. It’s the kind of gift that makes millennials and Gen Xers feel all the feels. Why they’ll get stolen: Nostalgia is a powerful thing. Plus, who doesn’t love a cuddly dragon?

White Castle Craver Casserole Dish

Here’s where things get unexpectedly practical. This casserole dish is perfect for White Castle’s famous Slider-based stuffing (yes, that’s a thing), but it also works for any holiday meal. It’s functional, it’s branded, and it’s the kind of gift that’ll actually get used. Why they’ll get stolen: It’s useful and funny. The best White Elephant gifts walk that line perfectly.

Annual Holiday Mug

Classic, festive, and perfect for sipping cocoa while you munch on Sliders. This mug is a no-brainer for anyone who loves seasonal drinkware or just needs another vessel for their morning coffee. Why they’ll get stolen: Everyone needs mugs. Bonus points if it becomes a yearly tradition.

More White Elephant Gold from House of Crave

White Castle didn’t stop there. Their online store is packed with dozens of other gift-worthy items that fit perfectly into the White Elephant vibe:
  • Pickleball paddle set: For the competitive friend who’s always looking for their next match
  • Classic tin lunchbox: Retro, practical, and perfect for packing Sliders (or, you know, regular lunch)
  • Beanies, bucket hats, and T-shirts: Wearable Craver pride for the fashion-forward fast-food fan
  • Beach towels and bathing suits: Because White Castle goes to the beach, apparently
  • Pint glasses and tumblers: Perfect for toasting holiday cheer or your next Slider feast
  • Tote bags: Practical, portable, and proudly Crave-forward
  • Friendship bracelets: A sweet way to commemorate your fellow Cravers

Why White Castle’s White Elephant Strategy Works

Jamie Richardson, vice president at White Castle, put it perfectly: “White Elephant exchanges are where personality really shines. The House of Crave has dozens of items designed to bring a smile, spark a laugh or make someone feel like the Craver they truly are.” And that’s the secret sauce. White Castle isn’t just selling merchandise—they’re selling personality. These gifts work because they’re fun, affordable, and totally unexpected. Nobody walks into a White Elephant exchange expecting to leave with White Castle Crocs, but once they’re on the table? Game on.

How to Shop White Castle’s House of Crave

Ready to snag your White Elephant gift? Head over to White Castle’s House of Crave online store and browse the full collection. With dozens of items to choose from, you’ll find something that fits your budget and your sense of humor. Pro tip: White Castle is offering free shipping on all House of Crave merchandise on December 10. Mark your calendar and save on shipping while you stock up on gifts.

The Bottom Line: White Elephant Gifts That Actually Deliver

White Elephant exchanges are supposed to be fun, and White Castle’s House of Crave delivers exactly that. Whether you’re going for laughs, nostalgia, or something genuinely useful, this lineup has you covered. So skip the generic candles and boring gift cards. This year, bring the Crocs. Bring Willis the Dragon. Bring the casserole dish. Bring something that’ll make people smile, laugh, and fight over who gets to take it home. Ready to win your White Elephant exchange? Visit White Castle’s House of Crave and find your perfect gift today. Don’t forget—free shipping on December 10!
About White Castle White Castle is America’s first fast-food hamburger chain, serving hot and tasty Sliders since 1921. Based in Columbus, Ohio, the family-owned business operates about 340 restaurants and has earned accolades including “Most Influential Burger of All Time” by Time magazine. Known for passionate fans (Cravers) and legendary team engagement, White Castle has been Great Place to Work® Certified for five consecutive

Source: White Castle Press Release – PRNewswire

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/


Discover more from Daily News

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Continue Reading

Trending