This Thanksgiving I came to Ames to visit my sister and her family. Throughout my visit I heard much discussion about the proposed Recreation and Aquatic Center for the Ames community. I couldn’t believe a community the size of Ames doesn’t already have a center like the Recreation and Aquatic Center.

I realize that the Quad Cities (where I’m from) is a larger community than Ames, but I couldn’t believe the many stories I heard about children not having a place to practice and the fact there was nowhere for me to go during my visits. We have a very nice YMCA in Moline that I have been a member of for 20 years. I consider the availability of a recreation facility such as the one you’ll be voting on in Ames a quality of life issue. I wouldn’t consider moving to a community without such a facility.

I visit Ames about six times a year, and I would visit the Recreation and Aquatic Center each time. The people of Ames owe this to themselves to build a facility that can be used by all community members and visitors. Do yourselves a favor — vote yes for this great facility.

Rick Evans

East Moline, Ill.