LIFE IS COOL IN THE POOL

After a few years trying to raise money to resurface the swimming pool, kids are once again smiling and splashing.
When Southwest Health and Human Services inspected the pool a few years ago, they deemed it necessary to resurface the baby pool and the adult pool in order to continue to be issued an operating license.
The cost seemed somewhat unattainable at $265,000. Amber Rodas and Steph Vlaminck were determined to somehow raise the needed funds. Collaborating with the Pool Pals group, they held fundraisers, requested support from businesses and the community, wrote grants, and more to somehow reach the goal and keep the pool operating that had opened in 1966. In a small town where activities are at a premium, it was vital to keep the pool from closing.
"It's been great to see it up and running," said Rodas. "It looks amazing and the few times we've been up (to the pool) everyone seems happy to have it back. I'm glad it all worked out."
With the help of the City of Minneota and with a lower bid for the project coming in, the necessary resurfacing was recently completed. The pool opened for the season on Wednesday, June 23.
"It's rewarding to see everything come to fruition," Vlaminick said. "I'm so grateful to everyone who donated financially and donated time and their talents. Minneota needs the pool, and thankfully it can continue to be enjoyed."
Anna Gruenes was named the manager of the pool this summer. This is her fifth year being employed at the pool, including as a lifeguard and assistant pool manager.
"There were times when I thought the pool might not open," said Gruenes, a 2020 Minneota graduate who now attends the University of Minnesota, Mankato. "But I am so excited that we were able to get the resurfacing done and open."
Madison Scholten is the assistant pool manager this summer, along with 11 lifeguards.
The pool looks much brighter and more modern following the resurfacing project.
"I have heard many compliments about the pool since it was resurfaced," said Gruenes. "Everyone who comes to the pool says it looks fantastic. I have heard from multiple people that they like the smooth surface because it doesn't cut up their feet."
Despite the uncertainty of getting the pool resurfaced and opening for the season later than normal, just as many season passes were sold as previous years.
"I just want to say thank you to everyone who comes to the pool," said Gruenes. "The support from the community is what keeps our doors open and we truly appreciate it."
The pool has three sessions of swimming lessons this summer. The first session has been completed.
The second session runs July 5-16, Monday thru Thursday, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and from 5-6:30 p.m.
The third session runs July 19-30, Monday thru Thursday, from 9 am. to 1 p.m.
Pool hours are: Monday-Wednesday-Friday-Saturday-Sunday, 1 p.m. to 7:50 p.m.; Tuesday-Thursday, 1 p.m. to 6:50 p.m.