MARINE CORPS AIR STATION YUMA, Ariz. -- Semper Fit hosted the "Mom and Me Swim and Show" July 13 at the station Oasis pool and station theater.
Station children and their parents were invited to attend a costume pool party and a screening of the movie "Madagascar."
Jude Crouch, Semper Fit director, said the Swim and Show was created as an effort to include more family activities in Semper Fit. Most Semper Fit activities are held for Marines, Crouch said. More events are now planned for families.
More than 200 people attended the event, which was a first, not only with its total child and parent emphasis, but in another way also.
"This was the first time we have combined different aspects of (Marine Corps Community Services) facilities," said Crouch. "In the past, we would just host a pool party or a movie madness night, but now we want to incorporate more facilities in one event. That way, we can showcase more things that we have to offer. This is a great way to keep the new events fresh and different, and a great way to beat the summer heat."
Crouch said MCCS decided to hold this event now because the children are out of school for the summer.
Marty Carter, entertainment complex manager, said they recognized the need for activities for children and their families since the children are on their summer vacation.
Parents and their children had the station Oasis pool all to themselves from 10 a.m. until the "Madagascar" screening at noon to maintain a family environment.
"We really didn't expect this much of a turnout, but this is great," said Carter.
Lucinda Garcia, military spouse, took her two daughters Sayla, 11 months, and Celeste, 4, to the event to spend time with them and treat them to the movie for a second time.
"I think this was a great idea, and we are having a good time here," said Garcia. "I had to take them to see ("Madagascar"), because the first time they saw it, they loved it."
Crouch said the next event is the "Fintastic" Pool Party Friday, for Marines and families to enjoy swimming, food and games, among other things.
Carter said, he is very thankful for each family that attended the event and, in the future, they plan to host more events for families, using other MCCS facilities.