Courting Charity

“Four years ago, Kenny said to me, ‘I want to have a pickleball tournament.’ I was like, ‘Oh my! What is that?’”

That was Unity Shoppe Executive Director Angela Miller Bevan’s introduction to pickleball, courtesy of longtime supporter Kenny Loggins, who promptly taught her how to play. Now in its second year, “Pickleball in the Danger Zone” returned Saturday afternoon to the municipal courts below Montecito Country Club, with Lisa Loggins also courtside supporting the cause.

“It’s a labor of love for Santa Barbara,” said Angela, who grew up locally and knows firsthand what it means to need community support. “I was able to go to college and become who I am because of this community and nonprofits.”

“It’s like building a city,” Angela laughed of producing the tournament – and Montecito helped furnish this particular one. Renaud’s Bakery provided an elegant spread for the VIP area, The Well supplied outdoor furnishings, while locally owned Solavida Sunscreen, Pickleball Pets, and The Neighborhood Grille contributed gifts for the players. “It’s a lot of teamwork,” Angela added, “a lot of people coming together.”

Platinum Sponsors Leo and Melinda Bunnin of Bunnin Chevrolet made it a family affair, joined by Brian and Cathy Bunnin and sons Max and Bennett Bunnin, alongside Angela courtside.

Celebrity paddles included Stephen Baldwin, Jason Hervey, Shane McAnally, Craig Shoemaker, and NFL Network’s Omar Ruiz, while professional players and coaches brought plenty of firepower to the five-team round robin.

Kenny Loggins himself paired with pro Matt Manasse, proving the man behind “Danger Zone” was willing to enter one on court, too.

For Angela, though, the winning point was simpler: community helping community.

“It’s a labor of love.”