By Matt Sorensen
It must be summer in Vernon! While it feels like something new and somehow more horrifying happens every day we finally have some good news. The pool and other rec services are beginning to open up which is starting to make this bizarre and crazy time feel normal again. While it will be under some different circumstances, this is something all Vernon residents can rejoice.
Starting Friday, June 19th, the pool will open to Vernon residents. The hours will be 1 pm-3 pm and 3:30 pm-5:30 pm Monday-Saturday with capacity restrictions of 20 people. Any patron hoping to attend must call ahead at 802-254-9251 and reserve space. Each member of your group will cost $1 regardless of whether or not they’re planning on swimming and everyone admitted will count toward the maximum capacity. Each person entering the pool area will be subject to a brief health screening as required by the state. Bathrooms will be open to swimmers but showers and changing rooms will not be so guests are asked to come dressed in their swimming attire. Patrons are encouraged to bring their own games, and chairs as they will not be available to the public as usual.
Day Camp is also open to Vernon residents! With twenty-one spots available to Vernon residents you can sign up here. All counselors will be wearing masks and it is recommended that campers do as well but it is not required. The campers will have daily scheduled swim time as well as other fun cooking, archery, and playground activities to look forward to. While cleaning and disinfecting will occur regularly as recommended by CDC guidelines the rec is excited to offer campers this social time. While campers are permitted to use the playground the public is not for safety reasons. Guidelines regarding the rec are subject to change with the governor’s orders.
We are all excited about the opening of the rec but it is important to remember that we are still fighting a global pandemic. Rec Department staff are making themselves available to provide recreational services to our residents and we must acknowledge that. Please, do not show up unannounced, adhere to the guidelines, and don’t put anyone in any unnecessary danger. We are all looking forward to having the rec open in a fun but safe way.