Swimming pool open for summer

The Julia Butler Hansen Swimming Pool opened June 16 with little fanfare.

The pool was painted in preparation for this year’s opening, Manager Duncan Cruickshank reported in an email.

Lessons have already begun and all the lifeguards are certified and ready to go. According Cruickshank, they were already involved in a successful pool rescue of a pair of swimmers.

“Parents can feel reassured that their kids are in good hands while they are at the pool,” Cruickshank said.

Prices remain the same as last year, at $2.50 for children and seniors (55+) and $3 for adults. Swimming is free for the first 50 patrons on Saturday. The pool has season passes available as well.

Lap swim and water aerobics are offered twice a day Monday through Friday, as are lessons. Open swim is from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 7:30-9:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Anyone who would like to make donations for swim lessons, equipment and free swims for local kids should contact the Town of Cathlamet. Their office is in the Scarborough building and their phone number is 360-795-3203.

According to Cruickshank, the pool could use more goggles, masks, and robust pool toys.

“Anyone with ideas for special swimming events should feel free to tell the guards,” Cruickshank said, “especially the lead guard Lainie Ferguson, Jem Dyer or Shane Souvenir. I hope they can make some fun things happen this summer.”

For more information about pool rental or lessons and to check the schedule and fees, go to http://www.townofcathlamet.com/SwimmingPoolInfo.shtml or call 360-795-6515.