DFMWR kicks off summer with Family fun at Lake Fest May 29

By Janice Sullivan, DFMWR Marketing DirectorMay 13, 2010

DFMWR kicks off summer with Family fun at Lake Fest May 29
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- Summer is almost upon us and it's time for Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation staff to host its annual Lake Fest celebration May 29.

This kick-off to summer provides a fun-filled outdoor experience for Army Families with free swimming, boating opportunities, food vendors, a car show and much more.

The festivities start at noon and last until 6 p.m. on West Beach at Lake Tholocco. Families should bring their lawn chairs and blankets to sit back and enjoy a classic rock performance by the band, Generation.

Patrons can take advantage of the many free opportunities ranging from swimming, free use of the paddle boats and canoes, and children's inflatables. Several contests are planned for participants of all ages, such as sand castle building, volleyball tournament, sack race, water balloon and frozen T-shirt contests.

Karen Key, recreational assistant with ODR, commented on the beauty of Lake Tholocco.

"The lake is looking beautiful. The maintenance team has been working hard cleaning up and preparing the park for the upcoming season. I would personally like to encourage all families to come out and enjoy the facilities here at Lake Tholocco. The Family fun atmosphere is worth taking advantage of, and it's local and affordable."

Lake Tholocco offers plenty for patrons of all ages to do and enjoy, from fishing, water sports, camping, picnicking or just coming out and enjoying the scenery. Soldiers and their Families can have fun without breaking the bank or leaving the installation.

"Lake Tholocco has a lot to offer our Army Families and we want everyone to come out and experience what is available" said Evy Bludsworth, deputy director of DFMWR.

A new aspect to this year's event is DFMWR teaming up with Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers to bring a car show to Lake Fest. From professional judges to event patrons casting their votes at the event for Best in Show, the competition for the coolest ride should be a fun and interesting venue.

The car show showcases motorcycles, trucks and cars. Trophies are awarded to the top three winners in each category. Cost to participate in the car show is $10 by May 21 or $20 after that day. For more information on entering the BOSS Car Show, call 255-2677.

"DFMWR and Army Family Covenant are proud to offer events like Lake Fest to the Families and community where they can have fun and a safe experience while not spending a lot of money," said Emily Klein, DFMWR special events coordinator. "It is important to spend time together as a Family, and Lake Fest is one of those opportunities you just shouldn't pass up."

In addition to all the fun activities planned for this year's Lake Fest, patrons can take advantage of being green through recycling programs now being offered at major events hosted by DFMWR. Recycling bins are available to properly dispose of your aluminum and plastic items. So be on the look-out for recycling bins to help keep the installation green and be proactive in recycling to reduce, reuse and recycle.

The Fort Rucker community is encouraged to take advantage of the special events planned by DFMWR throughout the year as they work hard to bring entertainment for the entire Family.

"We work with Army Entertainment to bring in special events like the Soldier Show, USA Express and Comics on Tour. In addition, we are planning to have the 'Sesame Street' characters visit in June and a Luau in August," Bludsworth said.

For more information on Lake Fest or any of the upcoming special events, call DFMWR at 255-1794 or visit <a href="http://www.ftruckermwr.com" target="_blank">www.ftruckermwr.com</a>.