The Grand Opening is scheduled for the first of June, but a lot of work remains. Nevertheless, New Westminster's new facility opened partially last week. The state-of-the-art Aquatic and Community Center replaces the former 'Canada Games Pool' facility which opened on the same site in 1973. Today, we witnessed people in the brand new pools. Lots of other curious residents were checking things out as well.
The name is of First Nations' origin. That is how Canadians refer to the original peoples of the land we're on. In a language of this area, the name translates as Sea Otter House. That is pretty cool for an 'aquatic center' and much better than the name of some stuffy mayor or colonial historic figure.
At first, I thought the pronunciation should be written beside the letters. However, I learned that this lack was a deliberate choice. There are plenty of ways to learn how it is said and, of course, you can ask! I do have a fuller appreciation for the word now that I've learned how the name sounds and is symbolically represented. A few, simple minutes were required but now understanding it means more to me.