The holiday season has arrived, bringing with it a chance to pause, reflect, and count our blessings. For members of the Rolling Hills Courts Club, it’s also a time to celebrate friendship, community, and the people who make life here so special.

This year has brought plenty of good times on the courts — and a few unexpected challenges. In September, the City of Rolling Hills launched an ADA improvement project that required the temporary closure of all tennis and pickleball courts. While the upgrades will make the facilities more accessible to everyone, the closure left local players without a home base for several months.

Fortunately, in true Rolling Hills fashion, generosity and neighborly spirit came to the rescue.

When the Courts Club Board began reaching out to the community for possible alternatives, longtime resident Richard Colyear stepped forward with an extraordinary offer. Upon learning about the situation, he graciously converted his personal tennis court into two brand-new pickleball courts — a gesture that instantly lifted the spirits of players across the neighborhood.

And Richard didn’t stop there. He also provided chilled water, a stocked refrigerator with cold drinks, and even a deluxe restroom facility for players. One club member described the setup perfectly:

Without his generosity, Rolling Hills pickleball players would likely have scattered to find courts elsewhere — and in doing so, lost much of the camaraderie and connection that make our club such a special part of community life.

The new courts at 35 Crest Road West have quickly become a hub for laughter, competition, and connection. The recent Halloween Potluck Event showcased exactly that spirit, with more than 25 residents and guests coming together for a morning of spirited pickleball, delicious dishes, and cheerful conversation.

Highlights included Shari Cimmarusti’s colorful fruit platters, Benita Schwarz’s deviled eggs, Doris Liu’s savory pancakes, Lisa Mills’ box of Randy’s Donuts, and festive mimosas from Dustin and Melissa McNabb — proof that good food and good company make every game even better.

What may seem like a simple act — sharing a court — has had a lasting impact on countless neighbors and friends. As the holiday season unfolds, the Courts Club extends heartfelt thanks to Richard Colyear and to everyone who continues to embody the generous, community-minded spirit that defines Rolling Hills.