Just in time for the unofficial start of summer, the Nation Pool will again be welcoming guests to cool off in its waters.

“Holidays are the busiest times, and our workers will be ready,” Brian Conners, Recreation Supervisor for the Nation, said. “It’s just like working at the casino. Our guards will spend the holiday at the pool.”

Brian said the pool will open for swimmers from noon to 8 p.m. this Saturday, May 29. For the first few weeks in June the pool will open from 3 to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from noon to 8 p.m. on weekends. Summer hours, which begin June 25, are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays, and noon to 8 p.m. on weekends. The pool is closed from 10 to 11 a.m. during swim classes for students enrolled in the Early Learning Center and from 3 to 4 p.m. for Summer Jam participants.

Supervising the pool is Ray Martinez Walker, who has been with the Nation for a few years. He began his career as a life guard before moving up the ranks. Rachel Donaldson serves as the assistant pool supervisor. Overall there are eight lifeguards on staff for the pool and four on duty while the pool is open.

Located on Territory Road the pool is open to Nation Members and Health Center clients. Nation Members are allowed to bring two guests. There are bath and locker facilities on site. The pool also has lounge and deck chairs, and tables with umbrellas, for those who want to watch the fun.

The pavilion, playground, and basketball courts near the pool are also available for use. The Pavilion is for Nation Members and Health Center clients for picnics and other occasions. To reserve space contact the Recreation Department. A user agreement must be submitted two weeks prior to any special event.

Other summer happenings:

SUMMER JAM
This six-week program begins July 6. Summer Jam is for students entering grades 3 to 7 in September.

ADULT SOFTBALL LEAGUE
The adult softball league began this week and runs until Aug. 11. Two games are scheduled back to back on Wednesday nights. This league is open to employees.

“The adult league is fun,” Brian said. “Our main goal through all our activities is to give everyone, Nation Members, Health Center clients, and employees, some exercise. It’s nice having these facilities here. This means they (Nation Members) can stay locally to play in a league. And for employees, this gives them a chance to have fun. It’s a nice way to put a name to a face. This is just another perk the Nation has for employees.”

RECREATION CENTER
The center is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the summer however the gym is closed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for Summer Jam. The exercise room is available for use.

Making the summer schedule possible are members of the Recreation staff including Barbara George (Wolf Clan), administrative assistant; Susie Farmer, youth development coordinator; Ben Kimball, youth development assistant; Dakota Bluewolf (Wolf Clan), gym attendant; and weekend attendants Travis Goff and Cole Perkins.