$$Pierce pool sparkles with pride

A ‘Swim to Support Pierce Pool’ fundraiser Oct. 21 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. will be hosted by the Friends of Pierce Pool at the college pool.The funds will specifically be used for the maintenance of the pool, which according to Friends of Pierce Pool’s mission statement is a valuable asset to the college and surrounding community. The event occurs every year and generates funds for land lines, kick boards, filter systems and machines to keep the pool at a lower temperature during extreme heat. “Things you don’t think of, like supplies, can cost thousands,” said John Vowels, swimming pool supervisor.Sponsors for the 15th annual event are the Pierce College Extension, the Athletic Department and the Foundation for Pierce College.Funds will be raised in the form of pledges for all laps completed by swimmers. All proceeds will go into a tax-deductible account. The Pierce pool is considered one of the finest and largest pools in the West Valley. The pool’s usage is less than 68,000 people annually. It is home to the South West Aquatic Masters team, Pierce’s swim team, day camps and four local high schools: Crespi, Louisville, El Camino and Taft. It also offers the only group swimming lessons program in the West Valley for kids ages 3 through 7. Fred Shaw, head coach of the Pierce swim team, hopes to raise more than $15,000. He also hopes to have a higher turnout by placing ads and relying on contributors who donated last year. “Without the swimming pool, water polo and swimming teams will not be able to exist,” said Shaw. Christina Courtney, a distance freestyle swimmer for the Pierce team, will swim laps to raise money for the pool. “I have competed at the pool since I was 6 years old,” she said, and she considers the pool “a home away from home.”This year, the event is also in memory of former swimmer and president of the Friends of Pierce Pool, Steve Schofield, who died early this year. He is being honored for his contributions within the community and his passion to keep the Pierce pool open.”It is a good cause,” said Courtney. She hopes this event will be the best ever in remembrance of Schofield.Everyone is welcome to the event, which will include free admission, food, entertainment, exhibitions and prizes. For more information or to make a donation, contact Friends of Pierce Pool at (818) 347-8075.

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