Fort Scott residents prove ready for Summer Excitement

* Though the

official start to summer, June 20, is still a couple

of weeks away,

rising thermostats and activity at the local pool would suggest the season has arrived early this year.

Tribune Staff Report

Dozens of area children gathered at the American Red Cross pool in Fort Scott Tuesday to beat the heat and enjoy activities only fitting to the summer season.

Between the intense splashes from those shooting out of the water slides to games of aquatic basketball, everyone ended their day soaked and smiling.

The American Red Cross swimming program is entering its 13th year, with seven different skill levels that outline the program. Children should be enrolled in the most appropriate level according to their current ability.

Adult swim lessons are also available and cover everything from basic survival to advanced strokes. There must be at least six adults enrolled in order to hold the classes. Registration will be taken at Buck Run Community Center. The class will meet from June 16 to June 27, from 6 to 6:45 p.m., There will be a $10 fee.

Infant aquatics classes will run from June 16 to 27. They are designed to help infants become familiar and comfortable with the water. An orientation for parents is required and scheduled at 6 p.m., June 9, at BRCC. The Red Cross program will have a $10 per child. Children from 6 to 23 months will meet from 6 to 6:30 p.m. and those aged 2 to 3 years, from 6:30 to 7 p.m.

Summertime activities aren't just confined to the pool.

Photos By Michael Glover/The Tribune Fort Scott residents along with those from surrounding communities enjoy a day at the pool Tuesday, as thermostats reached the 90 degree mark.

Baseball and softball activities are also scheduled. The Cal Ripken State Tournament is scheduled from July 18 to 22, at Don Hewett Field. It's hosted by the Fort Scott Recreation Commission. There is a Cal Ripken minor and major division. The minor is for boys ages 9 and 10. Boys will begin to live pitch to batters. All players will bat and play defense. All-star teams in each age division will be selected by mid-June to compete in post season tournament play within the first two weeks of July.