Poplar Bluff families make a splash at Dunks with Dads event

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. (KBSI) — Families gathered at the Poplar Bluff City Pool on Thursday for “Dunks with Dads,” an event designed to bring fathers and children together ahead of Father’s Day, with a second event planned for Father’s Day itself.

Hosted by the Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation Department, the event featured swimming, games and discounted admission. Fathers were admitted free, while general admission was $2.

Aquatics Manager and Splash Program Manager Kyler Sowell said the goal was to give families an affordable opportunity to spend quality time together.

“We really want kids to learn how to spend quality time with their fathers,” Sowell said. “It’s one of those things where we don’t set aside enough time all the time. So we want to give men that opportunity to just set aside time with their kids.”

Sowell said the event also encourages families to get outdoors and stay active during the summer months.

“It’s just important to spend quality time and especially get outdoors,” he said. “We’re the Parks and Recreation Department. We love to see people outdoors. We love to see people in the community coming out and joining us.”

The event included pool activities and games, with organizers hoping families would create lasting memories together.

Those who missed Thursday’s event will have another opportunity to participate. Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation plans to host another Dunks with Dads event on Father’s Day.

The department is also planning a “Sip and Swim” event for mothers on July 2. The ladies-only pool event will feature tea and lemonade while children participate in supervised activities nearby.

For more information or to find future events, visit: PBparks.org/pool