LAURENS, IA (Northwestiowanow) – The Laurens Aquatic Center held its official grand opening Friday evening, alongside a ceremony honoring the 2025 Grand Marshals.

During the Summer Splash Bash celebration at 7:15 p.m. on Friday, July 11, many members of the community—including Laurens Mayor Rod Johnson, the City Council, past swim team coaches, former pool managers, and major donors—gathered to celebrate the milestone event.

Glenda Mulder, Kelly Tate, and Lyle Wallin were honored as the 2025 Grand Marshals. As the only three remaining original members of the Laurens Pool Project Committee, they have led the effort since its inception in October of 2012. Over 13 years, they spearheaded fundraising efforts, pursued grants, and rallied community support to bring the Aquatic Center to life.

City Administrator and Chamber President Hillary Reed welcomed the crowd and praised the honorees for their behind-the-scenes work and commitment.

 

 

Grand Marshal Glenda Mulder, who helped organize fundraisers and solicit donations throughout the project’s lifespan, said being named a Grand Marshal alongside her fellow committee members was an honor.

 

All three Grand Marshals were presented with keys to the city, and the event concluded with a ribbon cutting, officially marking the opening of the Laurens Aquatic Center. The ceremony not only celebrated the completion of a major project, but also recognized the years of planning, fundraising, and community support that made it all possible.