August…
”Breathe the sweetness that hovers in August.”
―Denise Levertov
Dear Ocean Shores Community Club Members,
Our wonderful Ocean Shores summer is quickly coming to a close. August is one of the hottest summer months and the time when most take in their final vacation. Families gather one more time, creating memories and for next year’s ‘do you remember’ moments.
This year, Ocean Shores Community Club has experienced some challenges. With the downed pumps at Cabana Pool, we opened our Ken Peterson Park Pool in a safe and timely manner. Ken Peterson Park Pool is a wonderful pool, yet can only serve half the occupancy as our Cabana Park Pool. We understand this put a few wrenches in our families plans, particularly on the July 4th holiday weekend when our clubhouse pool had a computer malfunction. My staff and I did our best to address the issue and frustration felt by our members. Many of you, while disappointed in the temporary situation, expressed your understanding and patience as we worked to address the issue.
It was a week later when we were able to open the Cabana Park Pool. Thanks go to Austin, our maintenance team and Robbins Air for the timely replacement and installation of the heat pumps. Cabana Park Pool opened on July 18th. We saw our Water Aerobics community group return and celebrate opening with great joy! The families enjoyed the greater occupancy number so swim time was more available for them. Our team is excited to see our members experience fun with family and friends!
Our Bayshore Pool is open again and the equipment issue has been addressed and a backup plan is in place to minimize any need for an extended closure in the future. Ken Peterson Park Pool has been closed for the season.
Swimming, biking, hiking, running and all other outdoor activities are in full swing in the City of Ocean Shores. Our parks and pools are being enjoyed by many and it is wonderful to see. Mindfully, we need to help our members and community to follow the posted rules and regulations for the safety and enjoyment of all. At Cabana Park, we ask those wanting to explore Perkins Pond and the beautiful .68-mile trail to enjoy the calmness and beauty of the natural surroundings, to keep their experience to foot traffic only. Bikes, skateboards, hoverboards and any wheeled and/or motorized vehicle should not be used on our path to ensure the safety for all to experience the lovely trail.
Calling all Members
Our annual picnic will be held on Saturday, August 27th from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. At this time, we have over 100 members signed up to feast on the picnic fair and enjoy the newly added live music from our Slow Jam group! Be sure to stop in, email or call the office with your reservations.
Save the Date!
Also, the Holiday Bazaar is planned for November 12th from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM! Sally and our team are working on contacting our seasoned vendors and will have space available for several new ones to join this festive occasion and holiday shopping spree. Interested vendors are recommended to contact Sally as soon as possible. Spaces are filling.
A Step Back in Time
The old editions of The Ocean Observer gives a fun, entertaining and informative look into our past. For instance, August 1964 was the beginning of a monthly column called ‘Hey Gracie!’ Gracie offered answers to domestic problems, fishing and international affairs. Check out the advice Gracie offers to a local 16-year-old who asks Gracie’s advice regarding boys and cars or Albert’s question about salmon’s ability to smell. In the August 1965 edition, an article helps us appreciate how the wildlife we enjoy has a history of making their presence known. Check out the article on Robber Raccoons Raiding Roots!
These editions are copied and available for all members to enjoy in the Loft at the Bayshore Clubhouse.
This summer has been wonderful. We are seeing more members meeting and sharing. It is because of these experiences with each other and our families that we have either a part-time or a permanent home in the City of Ocean Shores. So, in reference to this month’s name, I am closing with the following quote:
“All you need in the world is love and laughter. That’s all anybody needs. To have love in one hand and laughter in the other.”
― August Wilson
May this summer’s end bring great memories to warm us all through the onset of winter.
With gratitude to all our members and staff,
Kathleen
General Manager