GALT, CA (MPG) - The Gora Aquatic Center will reopen for public swim beginning Saturday, May 24, according to a City of Galt news release, offering residents weekend access to the pool from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays through June 8, with additional hours on Memorial Day, Monday, May 26. The early summer schedule provides ample space for families and individuals to enjoy open swim sessions, lap lanes and shaded relaxation areas.

In addition to public swim, the center’s spring lineup includes water aerobics strength and conditioning classes, swim lessons for all ages and abilities, dedicated lap swim periods and youth competitive opportunities through the Galt Gators Swim Team. 

Residents may register for all programs online at cityofgalt.org/parksandrecreation or in person at the Parks and Recreation office, Monday through Thursday. Program fees vary by activity, and financial assistance options are available for qualifying families.

Full summer hours and special event schedules, including evening swims, themed family nights and swim team showcase meets, will be announced on the city’s website and social media channels in the coming weeks. 

For more information, contact the Galt Parks and Recreation Department at (209) 366 7180 or via email at [email protected].

Registrations are now open for the 2025 CAMP SOAR (School’s Out Academic and Recreation Program), an eight week day camp running from June 9 through Aug. 1. 

The program requires in person registration on a first come, first served basis and features a different theme each week, along with arts and crafts, outdoor play, group games and supervised pool time at the Gora Aquatic Center.

Camp SOAR themes are scheduled as follows: Nature Explorers (June 9–13); Science (June 16–20, no camp on June 19); STEM (June 23–27); Ocean Adventures (June 30–July 3, no camp on July 4); Teamwork (July 7–11); Superhero Week (July 14–18); The Wild West (July 21–25); and Marketland (July 28–Aug. 1).

Program fees range from $45 to $165 per week, depending on selected options. A completed registration form and payment must be submitted before attendance. 

Parents and guardians may register in person at the Parks and Recreation office, 610 Chabolla Ave., Monday through Thursday between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.; the office is closed Fridays and major holidays.

Space is limited and anticipated to fill quickly. For more information, contact the Galt Parks and Recreation Department at (209) 366 7180 or email [email protected].

The Galt Library’s annual Summer Reading Challenge begins May 15, inviting readers of all ages to log their summer reading via the Beanstack platform to earn virtual badges and real world prizes.

Participants may register themselves or multiple household members on Beanstack.com or by downloading the Beanstack app on any mobile device. Those who prefer offline tracking can pick up a paper log at any library location. 

Beginning June 1, each book read and each completed activity earns 100 points; readers log titles and tasks to accumulate points toward rewards.

Youth readers who reach 500 points or log five books will receive one free book of their choice, valid for the first five titles or 500 points. 

Adult participants who meet the same thresholds will earn a coupon redeemable for one free book at the Book Den, plus an enamel pin or tote bag. 

All participants who log 2,500 points or 25 books will be awarded a Summer Reading medal.

The challenge runs through the end of summer, with badges unlocking as readers complete themed activities and log their progress. 

Library staff encourage early sign-up, noting that prizes are available on a first come, first served basis. 

For assistance registering, patrons may visit Galt-Marian O. Lawrence Library, 1000 Caroline Ave., during regular hours, or call the library at (209) 366 7110. More information and links to the Beanstack platform can be found at cityofgalt.org/parksandrecreation.