Life is precious. Lightning strikes when least expected. So do car accidents, illnesses, falls, sprains, and broken bones as well as rheumatic and heart diseases. Although you may not be a pool user, you never know when it will be just what the doctor prescribed for you or for a member of your family.

As dramatic as it sounds, a vote for the pool may save lives. We live on an island where sailing and fishing are popular sports. It seems appropriate that everyone should know how to swim, and that children especially should have the opportunity to take swim lessons.

Other than in church congregations, the John Vanderzicht Memorial Pool is the only place in Oak Harbor where people of all ages get together regularly. Swimming and exercising together develops community bonding.

Studies show that communities that have public swimming pools, parks and playgrounds have lower crime rates — less juvenile delinquency, domestic violence, and truancy — than those that do not provide healthful, recreational facilities.

To sum up, your vote for the pool levy could be the wisest investment you have ever made.

Trudy Sundberg
Oak Harbor