Summer is the season of swimming and now is the perfect time to purchase your season pass for the Kingsport Aquatic Center.

If you’re only planning to visit the Kingsport Aquatic Center during the summer, then have we got a plan for you. Our season pass entitles you to use the indoor pools and outdoor water park during the summer season.

The outdoor water park will open the weekend of May 18-19 and then be open daily from May 25 through August 2. Then, from August 3 through September 1, the outdoor water park will only be open on the weekends with the last day of operation being September 2.

Season pass holders and Kingsport Aquatic Center members also have early access to the Outdoor Water Park 30 minutes before the regular opening time (except Sundays). Season pass prices are as follows:

• Lil’ Splasher (Under 48″) $100
• Bigger Splasher (48″ & Taller) $125
• Master Splasher (Age 55+) $100
• Splash Pack $250
  -4 person household; $15 extra person within same household

2024 Outdoor Water Park Hours

• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• Wednesday and Saturday: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Sunday: noon – 6 p.m.

Season passes and memberships can be purchased at www.kingsporttn.gov and click on the “CivicRec” link, then select “Aquatic Center” from the list. You can also purchase season passes and memberships in person at the KAC front desk.

To learn more about season pass and membership benefits, call 423-343-9758 or visit swimkingsport.com.

More than 2,300 people receive the highlights newsletter each month

The Board of Mayor and Aldermen is the elected governing body of the City of Kingsport and is responsible for approving such things as the annual budget, city ordinances, major projects and the hiring of the city manager.

The seven-member board includes Mayor Pat Shull, Vice Mayor Colette George and Aldermen Betsy Cooper, Darrell Duncan, Paul Montgomery, Tommy Olterman and James Phillips.

Kingsport’s Public Information and Communication Department wants to remind residents that the best way to learn more about what the BMA votes on each month is by signing up for the BMA Highlights newsletter.

Simply go to www.kingsporttn.gov and enter your email address at the bottom of the page. Then after each BMA meeting, you’ll receive an email newsletter with a wealth of information, including:

• The agenda with vote tallies
• Photographs of major projects currently underway
• Updates on active projects within the city
• Copies of presentations given to the BMA
• The latest sales tax report
• Special awards, recognitions and proclamations
• Announcements on upcoming special events and activities.

“The BMA Highlights newsletter is a free resource that makes keeping up with your local government easy,” said Public Information and Communications Director Adrienne Batara. “You receive valuable and accurate city information delivered right to your inbox for reading at your convenience.”

Libraries give us a green light to experience something truly special – a place to connect with others, to learn new skills, and to pursue our passions through book clubs, storytimes, movie nights, crafting classes, lectures and other special events.

And as such, the Kingsport Public Library is encouraging everyone to visit the library next week in recognition of National Public Library Week. First sponsored in 1958, National Public Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association and libraries of all types across the country.

The theme for this year’s observance is “Ready, Set, Library!” and now is an excellent time to “check out” all the resources found within the Kingsport Public Library, including thousands of fiction and non-fiction books, audiobooks, DVDs, video games, 3-D printers and so much more.

“Next week is the perfect time to think about the essential role libraries, librarians and other workers play in transforming lives and strengthening communities,” said Interim Library Director Casey Applebaum. “And we’ve got plenty of events and activities taking place next week for you and families to check out.”

Events taking place at the Kingsport Public Library next week during National Public Library Week include:

• April 8 – Solar Eclipse Watch Party from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in Glen Bruce Park. Solar telescopes, eclipse glasses, science demonstrations and crafts will be offered.
• April 9 – Hundred Acre Wood event from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy Winnie the Pooh themed crafts and games. Suitable for young children.
• April 10 – Music Play Day from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Families of all ages can come out and sing, play and dance with a variety of small musical instruments.
• April 11 – Judge that Book from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. where participants play a fast-paced game of book speed dating where we want to hear your most honest opinion about a book. Suitable for teenagers.
• April 13 – Chill Fiber Crafts from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Bring your current crochet, knit or cross-stitch project and work with like-minded folks.

No matter where you find yourself on the roadmap through life’s journey—preparing for a new career, launching a business, raising a family, or settling into retirement—the Kingsport Public Library offers the resources and support you need to help make your goals a reality.

So, get ready to explore, become inspired, and connect with others during National Public Library Week.

To learn more about the $1.5 million Library of the Future fundraising campaign, how to contribute, and the exciting changes planned for the Kingsport Public Library, please visit www.kptfol.org. For information on sponsorship opportunities, please contact Joe Ewing at josephewing@gmail.com.

For information on other events, activities and programs at the Kingsport Public Library, please visit www.kingsportlibrary.org.