There were plenty of opportunities this weekend to put on a bathing suit and enjoy the unofficial start of summer.

Great Bend’s Wetlands Waterpark opened as usual on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend, as did municipal pools throughout the area.

The exception was the Ellinwood City Pool, where the opening was delayed until 1 p.m. on Tuesday, May 28. “We are eager to open the doors,” staff posted on Facebook. “Being the first day, it will be free of charge. It’s going to be an amazing summer.”

** As of Monday, May 27, this information has been updated. Due to continued maintenance being done to the Ellinwood pool, the city now hopes to have it open by Thursday, May 30. The latest post adds, "We are so sorry for the inconvenience." ** 

Ellinwood city workers filled the pool recently expecting it would open on Saturday but then found a leak and had to drain the pool. City Water Superintendent Spencer Proffitt explained that they had to cut concrete within the pool to reach the pipe that needed to be replaced or repaired. The new concrete needed time to cure before the pool could be refilled.

Municipal pools hire dozens of teenagers each summer to work as lifeguards or other staff. Great Bend lifeguards honed their skills at the annual “boot camp” on May 24. The Stafford City Pool offered lifeguard training and certification last week for pools in Stafford, Macksville, St. John, Cunningham and Turon.

In Great Bend, a forecasted high temperature of 75 degrees or more is needed for the Wetlands Waterpark to open on any given day. Decisions about closing will not be made before 11 a.m. because weather conditions may improve. Any threatening storms or inclement weather can force the pool to close for part or all of the day. There will be no refunds if that occurs. Check the status of the pool by visiting its website, greatbendwaterpark.com, following on Facebook (facebook.com/greatbendwaterpark) or calling 620-792-1516.