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Proposed Belmont Pool Complex

Aquatic Capital of America Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, was formed in 2008 by long-time resident and sailing enthusiast Tom Shadden and several influential friends as a destination for visitors interested in the many aquatic activities offered in the City of Long Beach, California. Their research confirmed a long-held belief by many residents that Long Beach has more produced more athletes, coaches and officials who have become Olympians, World and National Champions, and World and National Record breakers, than any other city in the U.S.A.

The founders seek to promote the myriad of aquatic activities offered in Long Beach, and to recognize, honor and support the huge legacy of its aquatic athletes, coaches, officials and organizations.

As the organization has grown, it is also working to promote water safety and education. The Foundation also supports community and regional efforts to cleanse local waterways as well as to increase the number of local aquatic facilities.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

The Belmont pool rebuild project finally got its hearing at the California Coastal Commission on Thursday, February 11. After lengthy discussion, the Commission voted 10-1 in favor of the project. The City of Long Beach must return to the Commission to provide information about plans to include patrons from the entire city. Meanwhile the City can work to develop full, detailed construction specifications and post the request for proposals, a process that is expected to take approximately 12 months. Actual construction is expected to add another 18 months to the timeline.

Our “Waterproof Our Youth” program kicked off on Monday, February 1. Aquatic Capital is paying for 8 youngsters from low income and minority areas in north Long Beach in each of the 3-week swim lesson sessions at the Fairfield YMCA for a total of 24 through April. With additional funding we hope to continue the program after April, providing more lessons to more kids. Please consider a donation to this program. Earmark it for "Waterproof Our Youth."

Local Alamitos Bay swimmers are loving our underwater thermometer! It’s fixed to the Gondola Getaway dock, at a depth of 18”. The thermometer automatically updates to our Home Page every 2 hours using radio signals to communicate. Many thanks to Scott Parker, Parker Advisors for making this happen!

Thank you to the City of Long Beach for sharing $5,000 of the CARES Act grant money with Aquatic Capital. This grant reimburses us for a portion of our ongoing 2020 expenses incurred while our revenue was so negatively impacted by COVID-19. During 2020 and into 2021, we were forced to cancel our three biggest fundraising events – the Naples Island Swims & SUP in August, our September Hall of Fame Dinner and Ceremony, and what would have been our Annual Awards Banquet that normally takes place this month.