‘Pool Savers’

When the State Licensing board stated that it would not issue an operating license for the Minneota Swimming Pool unless repairs were made by 2020, Stephanie Vlaminck and Amber Rodas dove right in and offered their services.

The baby pool and the regular pool both require resurfacing at an estimated cost of $235,000. “The City of Minneota is funding repairs to the baby pool this year at a total cost of $35,000,” said Rodas.

“So we still need to raise $200,000 by 2020.” After pondering a way to raise money for the swimming pool repairs while also making it something fun for adults, Vlaminck came up with the idea of hosting an Adult Prom.

“When I heard about the need for repairs to the pool, I didn’t know what we were going to do,” Vlaminck said.

“And I was just sitting around one night thinking of what would make people excited enough to open their wallets.” The Minneota Adult Prom is for those individuals 18-and-over and is set for March 30.

And like a high school prom, attendees can enjoy a meal together before heading off for the formal (or informal) dance. A pork loin meal will be served by the Pool Pals and Youth of Hope at the Bethel Fellowship Hall from 6:30-7:30 p.m., followed by a dance at the American Legion from 7:30 p.m. to midnight.

Rob Anderson, a DJ from Marshall, will provide the evening’s musical entertainment. Brian Jeremiason Photography has offered his services to take photos of the prom-goers.

“There will be a backdrop for the pictures, just like at a regular (high school) prom,” Vlaminck noted. “We just want to keep it kind of simple this first year to see how it goes.”

There will also be alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages served at the Legion. Vlaminck said this is a good opportunity for her to wear one of her many bridesmaid dresses.

“I’ve been a bridesmaid several times and I have these dresses that I’ve only worn once,” she said. “I might have to change into a different one every hour.”

“But people don’t have to dress up if they don’t want to. We just want you to come, relax and have fun.” Rodas and Vlaminck have each heard good responses about the upcoming event.

“We had over 2,300 views (as of last week) on our video describing our need,” said Rodas. “I am excited to see what support we can generate. Everyone I have talked to is very excited for the event.”

“We’ve had a good response from the people I’ve heard from,” Vlaminck echoed.

“I’m excited to see this come to fruition. And I’m ‘jazzed’ to attend.” The Minneota Swimming Pool was built in 1966.

The City of Minneota paid $60,000 to build the pool, which would amount to an approximate cost of $475,000 in today’s market. There are also other fundraising projects for the pool repairs being planned by Pool Pals and other volunteers.

“Currently, we have things in the works for Boxelder Bug Days,” said Rodas.

“And we are planning a Mini Prom with a Grand March and dance for our elementary students the Sunday after the Junior-Senior Prom.”

Fundraising always takes a tireless effort by volunteers. But it also takes a community effort. “I hope we can bond together and raise the money,” said Rodas.

“Sink or swim, it’s time to save our pool.”

Tickets are $25 for the meal and dance, or $10 for the dance only.

Tickets, which can be purchased at Prairie Winds Wellness or Gislason’s Hardware, will be entered into a drawing for a family pool pass.