RENO –– Northern Nevada needs a new community pool and Sierra Nevada Community Aquatics (SNCA) is leading the way to make it a reality. Since the closure of the Moana Pool complex in 2007, area residents have been left with few choices for family swimming, water therapy and safety classes, club swimming and school/team aquatics programs.

SNCA’s community fundraiser, Aquafest, will be held at the Idlewild Pool on Saturday. This family-friendly event is open to the public, so bring your swim suits, towels and beach blankets. This community fundraiser will feature autograph signings by Olympic medalists Rowdy Gaines, Lacey Nymeyer and Aaron Peirsol, as well as a barbecue dinner buffet, beverages and auction items.

Aquafest is sponsored by The Raymond C. Rude Foundation, NV Energy, The City of Reno, American Assay, The Reno Area triathletes – 2011 Pyramid Lake Triathlon, Men Wielding Fire restaurant and The Grape and the Grain.

“Last year’s event was a great success and we plan on making this year’s event even better,” said Mike Ginsburg, SNCA board president. “This event features Olympic swimming stars, great food, and a great venue – it will definitely be the party to attend this summer. Guests can take photos with the stars, get an autograph, and enjoy a great time with their family and friends.”

A relay swim meet will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and the barbecue and pool party will be from 3 to 7 p.m. Tickets cost $20 for adults, $10 for children 12 and younger. Tickets can be purchased on the SNCA website www.sncaquatics.org or at the event.