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Major League Pickleball Expands to Australia with PPL Partnership

Major League Pickleball expands into Australia with Pacific Pickleball League partnership, bringing professional pickleball to new heights.

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In an exciting development for pickleball enthusiasts, Major League Pickleball (MLP) has announced its first international expansion through a strategic partnership with Pacific Pickleball League (PPL) in Australia. This collaboration aims to elevate the sport’s popularity and provide a platform for elite players to showcase their skills on a global stage.

New Teams and Rebranding:
Pacific Pickleball League, which launched Australia’s first professional pickleball league, will now see its teams rebranded as Major League Pickleball Australia. The four teams—Sydney Smash, Melbourne Mavericks, Brisbane Breakers, and Gold Coast Glory—will continue to compete in the MLP format, known for its electrifying team events.

Growing Popularity:
Pickleball, the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., has experienced a surge in popularity in Australia. With an estimated 25,000 players already participating and membership doubling in the last 12 months, the sport is capturing the attention of sports enthusiasts across the country.

Record Prize Money:
The partnership between MLP and PPL will raise the stakes for pickleball in Australia. Major League Pickleball Australia plans to distribute close to a million dollars in cash prizes over the next year, attracting top talent and fostering the growth of the sport in the region.

MLP Format and Events:
MLP events feature men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and two rounds of mixed doubles, with each match worth one point. The first team to earn three points emerges victorious. Games are played in a fan-friendly “rally scoring format” where points are won regardless of the server. In case of a tie, a unique “Dreambreaker” tiebreaker determines the winner.

Future Prospects:
The inaugural Major League Pickleball Australia event is scheduled to take place in Brisbane from September 8-10. Subsequent events in Melbourne and Sydney are planned for later in the year, promising high-level competition and the largest prize money in the southern hemisphere.

Impact and Recognition:
The explosive growth of pickleball in Australia has created a demand for professional events. Pacific Pickleball was officially recognized as the professional pickleball league of Australia in partnership with the Pickleball Australia Association. This partnership aims to capitalize on the sport’s momentum and foster its continued growth.

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The expansion of Major League Pickleball into Australia marks a significant milestone for the sport. By partnering with the Pacific Pickleball League, MLP aims to standardize and enhance the professional pickleball league experience not only in the United States but on a global scale. The rebranded Major League Pickleball Australia and its upcoming events will provide a thrilling platform for elite players and further popularize the sport across the country. With a record-breaking prize pool and a rapidly growing player base, pickleball in Australia is poised for an exciting future.

For more information on Major League Pickleball, visit the official website and follow MLP on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok , and YouTube.

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  • 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

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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.

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The Controversy Surrounding the Jackie Robinson Biography at the U.S. Naval Academy

The Trump administration’s push to ban Jackie Robinson’s biography from the U.S. Naval Academy Library highlights tensions over diversity narratives in education, sparking controversy and raising concerns about historical representation amid ongoing political divisiveness.

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Jackie Robinson, first baseman with the Brooklyn Dodgers, circa 1949.

In an alarming move reflecting ongoing tensions over diverse narratives in education and public discourse, the Trump administration is reportedly pushing to ban a biography of Jackie Robinson from the Nimitz Library at the U.S. Naval Academy. This follows a week of controversy sparked by the temporary removal and subsequent restoration of an article on Robinson’s Army service from the Pentagon’s website.

According to a report from The New York Times, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has directed the Naval Academy to review its library collection for works that embody themes of diversity, equity, and inclusion. The biography of Robinson, alongside around 900 other titles—including Martin Luther King Jr.’s autobiography and “Einstein on Race and Racism”—has been flagged for removal under this directive.

Cmdr. Tim Hawkins, a spokesman for the Naval Academy, stated, “The U.S. Naval Academy is fully committed to executing and implementing all directives outlined in executive orders issued by the president and is currently reviewing the Nimitz Library collection to ensure compliance. The Navy is carrying out these actions with utmost professionalism, efficiency, and in alignment with national security objectives.”

With Hegseth scheduled to visit the Academy soon, it remains uncertain whether these controversial titles will be removed from the library before his arrival. The issue has sparked substantial outcry, particularly in light of the administration’s recent criticism over removing articles that celebrate influential figures in U.S. history, like Robinson and the Navajo code talkers.

In a discussion prompted by ESPN’s Jeff Passan, Pentagon press secretary John Ullyot reiterated the administration’s stance against diversity initiatives, indicating that some content may have been removed inadvertently. His comments drew significant backlash, leading to a follow-up statement emphasizing “patriotism and dedication to the warfighting mission” rather than racial or ethnic identities.

Robinson, a second lieutenant in the Army from 1942 to 1944, served with the 761st Tank Battalion, the first Black tank unit to see combat in World War II. His court-martial for refusing to adhere to a racist bus policy only underscores his enduring struggle against racial injustice, paving the way for his groundbreaking success in Major League Baseball as he broke the color barrier.

The Los Angeles Dodgers, Robinson’s team for a decade, are scheduled to visit President Trump at the White House to celebrate their 2024 World Series title this April, coinciding with Jackie Robinson Day. This timing juxtaposes their celebration of his legacy against the backdrop of an administration taking steps to diminish recognition of such key figures in American history.

As this situation unfolds, it raises critical questions about the role of educational institutions, historical representation, and the importance of equitable narratives in our national dialogue. In today’s divided political landscape, the removal of influential and diverse voices from public access can serve not just as a reflection of current priorities but also as a forewarning about the future of discourse surrounding diversity and inclusion in America.

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Related article: https://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/article/trump-administration-reportedly-moves-to-ban-jackie-robinson-biography-from-naval-academy-library-235013259.html

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.
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Celebrating National Nutrition Month: A Heartfelt Tribute to Nourishing Seniors

On March 19, 2025, Tanner Terrace residents celebrated National Nutrition Month with a community event led by Diana Gregory Outreach Services, focusing on healthy eating and nutrition education for seniors.

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National Nutrition Month,Seniors
Diana Gregory (center) with Pam Giannonatti (L), Angela Banks (R), and nutritionist Debbie Polisky at the Tanner Terrace event. Image Credit: Larry Jones

March 19, 2025, marked a significant day for the residents of Tanner Terrace in Glendale, Arizona, as they came together to celebrate National Nutrition Month. The event, held from 2 PM to 3:30 PM, aimed to emphasize the importance of healthy eating among seniors and featured a special focus on enhancing their nutritional knowledge.

The gathering was organized by Diana Gregory Outreach Services, a non-profit dedicated to enriching lives through healthy eating. Over the years, this organization has worked tirelessly to provide access to fresh produce and nutritional education for low-income seniors, veterans, and vulnerable individuals in the community.

A Flavorful Presentation

The afternoon began with a lively presentation titled Food, Fun, and Fitness, led by certified nutritionist Debbie Polisky. The interactive session engaged residents in discussions about the benefits of balanced nutrition and simple ways to incorporate healthy foods into their diets. Attendees were eager to learn and ask questions, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with enthusiasm for healthier living.

As a delightful conclusion to the presentation, each of the 100 seniors in attendance received a pre-packed bag of fresh produce from Fry’s Food Stores, complete with recipes and nutritional information. Watching the smiles on the seniors’ faces as they received these gifts was a heartwarming reminder of the impact of community support.

Generous Support from Fry’s Food Stores

At the outset of the event, Diana Gregory was presented with a generous check from Fry’s Food Stores. This contribution is vital for supporting Diana Gregory Outreach Services and its initiatives. Gregory proudly stated, “We have been serving the town for 16 years, and last year alone, we served over 30,000 seniors and veterans. This kind of support is critical to continue our mission.”

Pam Giannonatti, the Corporate Affairs Manager for Fry’s, emphasized their commitment to fighting food insecurity. With initiatives like “Zero Hunger, Zero Waste,” Fry’s aims to provide fresh food not only in their stores but also to those in need within the community. “Last year alone, we were able to provide over 16 million meals to hungry Arizonans,” Girardi remarked, highlighting the company’s dedication to wholesome nutrition and community welfare.

The Mission of Diana Gregory Outreach Services

Diana Gregory Outreach Services has a clear and impactful mission: to enrich lives through healthy eating. By addressing health disparities and championing holistic nutrition and fitness, the organization ensures that vulnerable populations have access to the resources they need to thrive. Their commitment is straightforward but profound: “We have a responsibility to ensure no veteran, senior, and their families in our community go to bed hungry.”

The culmination of the event was not just about handing out fresh produce; it symbolized a community rallying together to support its most vulnerable members. Flyers were distributed to the residents of Tanner Terrace, spreading awareness about future initiatives and encouraging participation in further programs designed to enhance healthy living.

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A Community Commitment

As I observed this event, it became clear that initiatives like these serve a dual purpose: they enrich the lives of seniors by providing them with crucial resources and foster a sense of community among participants. For many seniors, events like these also offer an opportunity to socialize and engage with their neighbors, enhancing their overall well-being.

As National Nutrition Month concludes, the event at Tanner Terrace stands as a shining example of how community partnerships—between organizations, businesses, and residents—can work in harmony to create a healthier future for all. By continuing to support initiatives that prioritize nutrition, we can make a lasting impact on our community’s health and wellness.

In the spirit of National Nutrition Month, let us carry forward the lessons learned and the connections made, ensuring that every member of our community has access to the nourishment they need to lead fulfilling lives.

Related link:

https://dianagregory.com

The Bridge is a section of the STM Daily News Blog meant for diversity, offering real news stories about bona fide community efforts to perpetuate a greater good. The purpose of The Bridge is to connect the divides that separate us, fostering understanding and empathy among different groups. By highlighting positive initiatives and inspirational actions, The Bridge aims to create a sense of unity and shared purpose. This section brings to light stories of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to promote inclusivity, equality, and mutual respect. Through these narratives, readers are encouraged to appreciate the richness of diverse perspectives and to participate actively in building stronger, more cohesive communities.

https://stmdailynews.com/the-bridge

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  • 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

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George Foreman: A Champion Boxer and Ubiquitous Entrepreneur Passes at 76

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George Foreman
George Foreman speaking at the 2016 FreedomFest at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas, Nevada. Image Credit: Gage Skidmore

Bigger than life in more ways than one, George Foreman captivated the hearts and minds of sports fans across the globe and found an enduring place on the kitchen counters of countless American homes. A two-time heavyweight champion, entrepreneur, author, and minister, Foreman passed away on March 21, 2025, at the age of 76, as confirmed by his family and publicist.

George Foreman Legacy

With heavy hearts, Foreman’s family shared the news on Instagram: “Our hearts are broken. With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr., who peacefully departed surrounded by loved ones. A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great-grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose.”

Affectionately known as “Big George,” Foreman was best recognized as a championship boxer. He brought home the heavyweight gold medal from the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, launching his professional career, which reached a pinnacle in 1973 when he defeated Joe Frazier in Jamaica to claim his first heavyweight championship. This fight, dominated by Foreman, is famously remembered for sportscaster Howard Cosell’s legendary call: “Down goes Frazier!”

In 1974, Foreman fought Muhammad Ali in what would become one of boxing’s most iconic matches, dubbed “The Rumble in the Jungle.” Although Foreman entered the ring as the heavy favorite, he suffered the first loss of his career, yielding his title to Ali via an eighth-round knockout. This legendary bout became one of the most-watched televised events in history, solidifying Ali’s moniker as “The Greatest.”

Following a victorious rematch against Frazier in 1976, Foreman faced challenges, retiring after another defeat to Jimmy Young. However, his story didn’t end there. After a decade away from the ring, Foreman made a surprising return in 1987 at the age of 38, stringing together 12 consecutive wins before falling to Evander Holyfield in 1991.

In a remarkable comeback, Foreman made history in 1994 when he, at 45 years old, defeated 26-year-old Michael Moorer to capture the WBA and IBF heavyweight titles, becoming the oldest person ever to win a world heavyweight championship. He relinquished the titles at 46 years and 169 days old, ultimately retiring for a second time in 1997 with an impressive career record of 76 wins and only 5 losses, 68 of which were knockouts. In 2003, Foreman was rightfully inducted into both the World Boxing Hall of Fame and the International Boxing Hall of Fame, earning his place among the 25 best boxers of all time.

Beyond the boxing ring, Foreman made a tremendous impact as an entrepreneur, particularly as the face of the George Foreman Grill. Launched in 1994, this innovative kitchen appliance became a global sensation, with over 100 million units sold within its first 25 years.

Foreman is survived by his wife, Mary Joan Martelly, and his 12 children—five sons and seven daughters—sharing that “Big George” famously named all his sons George Edward Foreman so “they would always have something in common.”

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George Foreman leaves behind a lasting legacy that transcended sports, embodying resilience, faith, and entrepreneurial spirit. He will be fondly remembered, not just as a boxing champion but as a beloved figure in the hearts of many.

Related links:

https://www.tmz.com/2025/03/21/george-foreman-dead/

STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.

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