There's even a video. And a flyer.
Now... to get some disclosures out of the way... I help train CA lifeguards. I am not connected to the Master Plan meeting, or the Master Plan, and this blog post (actually, my entire blog) contains my own opinions and thoughts and not that of CA/CA Aquatics or any past or present employers.
There, I think I covered all the bases. Whew.
Anyway, my opinion is this: you should go to a meeting. And if you can't get to either meeting, check with the website and look for a recap of the discussion. Send your input to Aquatics. Let your voice be heard.
It's my opinion that access to pools is one of the many things that makes Columbia special. This isn't necessarily a 'luxury.' Access to a pool allows kids to get involved more easily in what's a life-saving skill. Swimming is a rewarding and healthy sport. It builds confidence and friendships, and activity - something that's really needed these days, what with global obesity rates.
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| 2008 Obesity Rates in USA From Epidemiology of Obesity. Picture from WikiMedia Commons. Used under Creative Commons and GFDL. |
As a kid, I spent huge chunks of my summers at the pools. There was a community there - I had pool friends, did summer swim team things, etc. My best friend today is someone I met through CA Aquatics years ago.
So is my nemesis. Hmm. Take note. ;)
Anyway, the Master Plan meeting is an opportunity to help the Aquatics department make sure that this fantastic resource is serving the community. Even if you've rarely used the pools in the past, consider going - tell them what you want to see, that would make you want to use the pool more frequently. And consider changing that pattern anyway. It's never too late, just take it one lap at a time!