With the conclusion of Vicksburg City Pool’s summer 2014 American Red Cross “Learn to Swim” Program, it is imperative that I take this opportunity to thank all of the people responsible for, once again, making our instructional program second to none in performance standards.
This summer, just under 500 students 3- to 75-years old, were enrolled for swim lessons at our Lee Street facility. These students not only learned how to enjoy the water with exercise and fun; they gained the freedom of being safer around water environments.
“Learn to Swim” at Vicksburg City Pool would not be the same without the dedication and commitment of our local volunteers. Susan Athow, Bob Athow, Janis Beach, and Daniel Slayton are all well seasoned, veteran instructors while Aubrey Arendale and Blake Channell are new assistants with our swim program. We are eternally grateful to them for sharing their talents with our students.
Much appreciation is given to the staff at City Pool. Their determination and drive are what powers our program. These kids honestly put their hearts into the swim lessons…and it shows.
Big thanks to the City of Vicksburg for keeping our prices so reasonable. Learning to swim should be a right, not a privilege. By keeping the cost of our classes low, we ensure that the program is accessible to all.
Finally, thank you to the students and parents who, each spring, eagerly await registration, spread the word, and participate in this amazing program. Without you, “Learn to Swim” would not exist.
Again, thanks is given to all who make our American Red Cross “Learn to Swim” Program so successful year after year. Together, we make our community a safer place and Vicksburg a better place.
Sylvia Gurtowski
Learn to Swim Coordinator