I have to say, the best part about living in a small town is the way people care about the amenities the town has to offer. I could give many examples, but I think you know what I mean. I am happy to say that our pool in Wanamingo is still a viable part of our community, even after 50 years or so have gone by. A few years back, the Wanamingo pool turned 50. John Tiller and I sat at his computer and went over many pictures of the men who worked to make it happen. At that time it was just a dream coming true. The men did the physical labor, but in my article I also named many of the events and fundraisers that went into making that dream come true. A community working together to make the dream a reality. Small town stuff!
Another thing about small towns is, people appreciate the things the town has to offer, like the pool. When you see what a $110.00 a year membership offers you, I think you will be pleasantly surprised. One thing I didn't know that is offered is the Water Aerobics classes held Monday through Friday at 8:30 am, and Monday through Thursday at 7pm. What a great way to start or end your day! In fact, our pool opened on June 2nd, a week before others in the area, and continued on even after the other pools closed, until August 30th. The lifeguards, Olivia, Hadley and Naomi are the instructors in the aerobics class, so you know you are in good hands. In fact, the picture you see of the pool is actually 23 members of the water aerobics class (nicknamed The Water Lillies) the last week they were open. A well used benefit of our town!
I think I speak for many pool go-ers when I say thanks to Jake Wieme, pool manager, and his staff for doing a great job of running the pool this year. The bath houses are always clean and stocked, and the maintenance crew keeps things running smoothly. Also thanks to the City Administration for their part in caring for the pool and its members. It really does take a village working together to make good things happen! The pool is open to all, so consider checking it out for next year. And in conclusion, Thanks to all who have supported this dream for the past 50 plus years!
One of the ways this service continues is the use of funds acquired through the organization started a few years ago called SMIF. Southern Minnesota Initiative Association. You can find out more about them on their website, or under Wanamingo Foundation at https://wanamingofoundation.org/donate/. Also, Give To The Max Days happens every November, this year from the 12th to the 19th, and you can make a donation to the pool fund anytime within that time frame that is matched by SMIF. There are many ways to make your money work not only for you, but for your community.................... but that's for another article! AND, you can also purchase a pool membership for next season, and make some new friends!
