Players are batting around a new sport at the Polk County Recreation Department. Last week, in Stearn’s Gym, Anne Howe introduced several area residents to Pickleball. This sport, similar to tennis, is played on a badminton court with the net lowered to 34 inches at the center. It is played with a perforated plastic baseball (similar to a whiffle ball) and wood or composite paddles, according to the USA Pickleball Association. Above, Dawn Blanton takes her turn at the game. (photos by Virginia Walker)