Last Day of Pool Play

No matter how you say it - "Aqua Play," "Splash and Play" or "Spray and Play" - the new kiddie pool play area was a big hit with all ages at the Garden City Pool this season.

As the 2012 season of "fun in the sun" officially came to a close Monday, Kevin Ocker, chairman of the Board of Commissioners of Cultural and Recreational Affairs, said the newly renovated complex was utilized by more children and adults than ever before.

The pool welcomed 1,574 families this year - 60 more than last, he said, and revenues exceeded his projections.

Membership categories that increased from last year were Families (up 56 families), Couples/Family of Two (up 80 couples) and Senior Couples (up 16).

Revenues derived from membership fees was up $48,282.50, totaling $1,003,030, Ocker said, adding that other revenues like ice cream sales, merchandise sales and guest fees are being tallied right now.

"The new play pool has been a huge attraction for children. They have learned how to interact on the apparatus and play with friends. At the same time our toddlers were able to get their first experiences in the water as well. The addition of shade structures by the adult pool, playground and play pool area have been a huge success and appreciated by those members seeking the shade," Ocker said.

Tara Quinn, who was at the pool Monday with her son, Riley, 4, said, "The Aqua Play gives the little guys more to do and it's maintained well."

Triplets Jenna, Madison and Paige agreed with friends Kate and Kimberly that the Aqua Play is the best while Wendy Corrigan and her son enjoyed the baby pool with its graduated slope.

Brian and Fiona Budin enjoyed taking their children to the pool 55 times this summer (Fiona counted) and Brian said he's happy that the playground has a sun cover.

Lillian La Plac added, "The place is beautifully cared for."

At the adult pool Arlene Palmer was playing Dominoes with friends. "We feel we're at a country club or on vacation here," she said. Palmer's friend, Barbara Nothel, suggested adding another shade structure to the adult pool area for next year.

As with any new major project, Ocker said, there are always some issues.

"Our contractor will be re-painting the play pool surface and the slide in the main pool. In general, our feedback from members has been overwhelmingly positive toward the improvements that were accomplished," he said.

"We wish to thank the members of the pool sub-committee who gave their time and valuable input into ... the project and of course the trustees' demonstration of sound stewardship of our recreational facilities by approving the project. Finally, this project remained under budget and on time."