Dear editor,
I read with interest the article “Everyone Wants a Pool,... “ (Feb. 19, 2020) For many years, Watonga has needed a year-round pool. The pool built by the CCC at Roman Nose is unique, but we need a year-round pool in Watonga for three reasons: recreation; exercise; and rehabilitation. It is fun to dive in to cool off, play pool volleyball, basketball or water polo! Few exercises give the cardiovascular, strength and flexibility workout of swimming. As I get older, my knees and back thank me every time I go weightless in the pool.
Pool exercises can be therapeutic. Water exercises for pregnant women, older adults with arthritis, and athletes are a great way to improve health. A year-round pool, covered and heated, could be used by physical therapists to help rehabilitate patients with injured knees, ankles, hips, and shoulders in a near weightless environment. Further, a year-round pool could be used by school coaches and trainers to rehabilitate injured athletes. In addition to low impact, resistive exercises, aerobic capabilities can be maintained while an athlete recovers. Swim competitions might be added to school and community-based sports.
A pool would be a great addition to the recreation and parks department. Some years ago, I was delighted to read in the Republican of a bequest left to the city of Watonga toward a pool. I understand those funds were rerouted for new windows in the Scout Hut for Pack and Troop 183, of which I was once a member. But still no pool to get swimming and life-saving merit badges!
A pool is a great place for a party. A Watonga elementary class went to Kingfisher to use the Vernie Snow Aquatics Center for a class party, an attraction to many schools and groups, according to the Center’s FB page.
Such an important addition to Watonga and Blaine County deserves funding. The Republican article mentions Hennessey’s pool and sales tax funding. Not mentioned is the multi-use pool at Kingfisher, or new pool at Waynoka, a much smaller town than Watonga. Let’s use the half-cent sales tax designated for parks/recreation and oil revenues for a great indoor/outdoor facility that will draw people to Watonga, provide jobs for our youth and benefit our citizens. And when you order your new bathing suit from your favorite on-line retailer, make sure sales tax is collected/forwarded to Watonga toward an attractive facility that benefits all.
Joe Bryan, Watonga