Marines

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Children swim during the Summer Pool Party hosted by Marine Corps Community Services’ Tarawa Terrace Community Center aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune’s residential area June 16.

Photo by Lance Cpl. Nik S. Phongsisattanak

Families splash into summer with pool party

15 Jun 2012 | Lance Cpl. Nik S. Phongsisattanak Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune

Climbing summer temperatures offer the ideal conditions to satisfying cool-downs with dives into a pool, and many people recently seized the opportunity.

Service members and families gathered for a splash of fun at the Summer Pool Party hosted by Marine Corps Community Services’ Tarawa Terrace Community Center aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune’s residential area June 16.

“It was a great way to kick off the season,” said Lorraine Fuller, a recreational specialist with MCCS. “It was (like) a private party, so we were able to keep the pool open longer. Our event brought extra flare to the pool with food, games, dancing and music.”

Hotdogs, bearing signature grill marks, offered a taste of outdoor cooking to hungry guests while cold beverages sweating in the sun were quickly consumed by thirsty individuals.

Those who had their fill of food early in the event, and waited the advised 30-minute period before swimming to avoid muscle cramps, didn’t have to be bored. They could do their digesting while dancing.

“The kids seemed to really enjoy (the party), and the parents even got up to dance,” said Fuller.

As an incentive to join in on the fun, children also earned prizes by grooving to the music during group dances or playing games.

“I love that MCCS (hosts) events for the families,” said Mona Hope, a military spouse who attended the event. “I need things like this to entertain my kids. I love being involved with the community in anything fun and family oriented. It’s great to be with all of the other families. The best part is my kids get the chance to socialize and interact with other children.”

With her husband currently deployed, MCCS events keep her entertained and help the time go by until his return, she added. “It gets the kids out of the house and offers a break from the mundane everyday life,” said Hope.

Parents mingled and laughed while they watch their youngsters play and follow each other in and out of the water like ducklings.

“This event was a great way to team up with other MCCS entities, such as the TT Pool, and join forces to provide our community with a very dynamic program,” said Fuller.

Upcoming pool parties are scheduled for July 13 and Aug. 10.

For more information, call 450-1687 or visit www.mccslejeune.com/ttcc.