May 31, 2002--New for summer at the University of Delaware Outdoor Pool is a Funbrella, a giant umbrella which stands in a corner of the baby pool area.

The Pacific blue Funbrella, which has a diameter of 20 feet, was installed May 23 and already has proved to be quite popular, according to pool manager Jim Kaden.

Kaden said the Funbrella provides much-needed shade at the baby pool, something that had been lacking in past years.

The UD Outdoor Pool is now open for the season, and memberships are still available.

The membership price is $205 for a community family and $110 for a community individual.

For UD employees, there is a $180 membership fee for a family, and a $100 fee for an individual. The daily rate for UD employees is $5.

Membership is free for all UD undergraduate students enrolled in summer session. Undergraduates not enrolled for summer session and all graduate students are charged $3 per day.

Member guest fees are $5 per day for an adult and $3 per day for a child under the age of 13.

Swimming lessons are offered for members only and are on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration must be completed in person at the Fred Rust Ice Arena information window during normal business hours. There is a fee of $50 per child for a two-week session.

For more information, call 831-2868 or visit the UD outdoor pool web site.

In addition to the new Funbrella, the UD Outdoor Pool has recently renovated the locker room facilities, including the addition of a baby changing station in the women’s room. Other enhancements include new chaise lounge furniture on the pool deck and landscaping.

The pool, located behind the Gold Arena, is the largest in the state. The 50-meter facility is equipped with two pool slides. The temperature is kept at a constant 80 degrees.

Members have access to shower and changing facilities, and a snack shop is located on the pool deck. Sessions are designated each day for lap swimming.