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Pool opens to large crowd

A mixture of rain, some clouds, and balmy temperatures weren't enough to derail attendance at the Palmerton Memorial Pool.

Between 400 to 450 pool-goers jammed the entrance way on Saturday for the 65th annual opening of the pool, which saw temperatures reach the 90-degrees mark.But, severe thunderstorms hit soon thereafter to put a damper on the first day of the area pool season, according to Larry Arner, general manager of the Palmerton Memorial Park Association."It is with a smile that I opened the gates to eager kids and adults alike," Arner said. "Some spectators and sun seekers were not brave enough to enter the water, but those who did described it as refreshing."Many were able to squeeze in some fun just before the weather turned ugly on Saturday.Alison Jochen of Saylorsburg said she was delighted to bring her three children, Kiera, Zachary, and Ben, to the pool."This is our second year joining, and we look forward to it," Jochen said. "The kids have a blast, and it's a wonderful thing to do in the summer."Giovanni Marini, of Kunkletown, said he was thrilled to return to the pool after he took a turn down the always popular sliding board."I haven't been here in so long," said Giovanni, 10. "I definitely like the sliding board."Just down the pool, Josh Yochum, of Lehighton, attempted to perfect his form as he took lift off the diving board."I like the diving board," said Yochum, 20. "It's guaranteed fun."Others, such as Nathan Miller of Palmerton, said they merely enjoyed the atmosphere that the pool offers."I live the diving boards, and the food," said Nathan, 11. "I like coming to the pool on a hot day."Arner said that on Sunday, the clouds kept some people away, along with their picnics and gatherings. Regardless, about 250 people came out that day, he said.Monday saw one of the best attended Memorial Days in the history of the pool, as a crowd of about 900 came on another day that saw temperatures hit the 90-degrees mark."I am pleased to say thank you to all the patrons for your support of the facilities," Arner said. "We all need to remember this facility was built in honor of veterans, so lets all take time to stop and say thank you for their service in so many ways."Today through Thursday, the pool will be open from 3-8 p.m. On Friday, regular operating hours begin, when the pool will be open from noon to 8 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays, and 1-8 p.m. Sundays.Those who have already paid for their season passes may pick them up the first time they come to the pool. Passes can be purchased any time the pool is open for those who have not gotten theirs yet.The daily admission price is $7 for adults, and $5 for students. The price scale, with regard to season passes, is available at

www.palmertonpool.com.

TERRY AHNER/TIMES NEWS Kiera Jochen, 5, of Saylorsburg, cools off in the Kiddie Pool during the 65th annual opening of the Palmerton Memorial Pool on Saturday.