After somewhat of a slow start, attendance rebounded in a big way during opening weekend at the Palmerton Memorial Pool.

Within the first hour, a little over a dozen visitors turned out for the start of the 68th annual opening of the pool, as overcast skies put a damper on much of the early afternoon attendance.However, when all was said and done, 153 people came out on Saturday, according to Larry Arner, general manager of the pool.That number rose to 235 visitors on Sunday, and swelled to 457 on Monday, Memorial Day, though not all went swimming, but rather sat around and soaked up the sun, Arner said.Despite the pool temperature at a chilly 64 degrees on Saturday, Matthew Andrews of Palmerton slowly tiptoed into the cooler-than-usual pool."I'm excited that it's finally here," said Matthew, 12. "I'm going to be here pretty much every day this summer."Zachary Shetrompf, of Palmerton, accompanied Matthew to the pool."I came out to let him have some fun. I also love going to the pool," said Shetrompf, who added this was his first time at the Palmerton Memorial Pool in the past two years. "It's one of the nicest pools around; just the (water) slide, a couple of diving boards, and just how big it is and how clean they keep it."By Sunday afternoon, Arner said the pool temperature reached 69 degrees."The kids had no problem with the cool water," Arner said. "The warm weather this Memorial Day weekend helped bring people out to enjoy the holiday."Arner noted that visitors at the pool on Memorial Day took time out at 3 p.m., as requested, to give a minute of their time to observe a moment of silence for all who have served the country.He added, "it was a solemn moment to see all the people at the pool stop what they were doing and take that time to honor our veterans."The pool is open from noon to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, weather permitting, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, and 1-8 p.m. Sunday.Arner urged visitors to call the pool first at 610-826-5357 until school is out due to the pool being reserved on occasion for school functions.Swim lessons start June 23. Sign-ups will be held beginning June 9.The first special event is June 22, the first Sunday of summer.Check the pool website,

www.palmertonpool.com for the summer schedule.