Students make a splash at beach party social

WEBUTUCK — Fourth- and fifth-grade students at Eugene Brooks Intermediate School grabbed their surf boards and sunglasses for a beach-inspired party on Friday evening, Feb. 3. The idea was the brainchild of teacher Mari-Ann Hoke, who organized the fete as a fundraiser for the Class of 2017, along with teacher Sue Pomeisl.“We’re trying to bring some activity to the school, and thought something kooky in the doldrums of winter would be fun,” Hoke said. “We’re trying to bring in more activities. It gives the kids fun at school and outside of school, and it looks like it’s working.”It certainly appeared to be working on Friday evening, as dozens of fourth- and fifth-graders buzzed around the middle school gymnasium. There were plenty of activities to keep them busy: a cake walk, a bean-toss tic-tac-toe, dancing, raffles and, of course, tasty treats.Fifth-grader Seleen Hosier was decked out in beach attire — something she said she would love to do more often, with or without the weather’s cooperation.“I like dressing up,” Seleen said. “I love wearing shorts and flip-flops!”She also said she enjoyed the music and getting out onto the dance floor with her friends.ELA teacher Denise Conway said the party was a good way to get students to socialize with one another outside of the classroom, and credited her colleagues with pulling off such a successful theme party.“It’s good so far. I think everyone is have a great time,” she said. “There’s a deejay with music, and I think this is the first time we’ve had a dance with a beach theme.”Fifth-grader Mallory Storms said what pushed the party over the edge, in her estimation, was the disco atmosphere.“I like the dark lights on the dance floor the best,” she said.Fourth-grader Jack Sheeley, meanwhile, had other things on his mind.“My favorite part of tonight is the cake walk,” he said, admitting the desserts looked tempting after an evening of festivities.The children continued to play and party until 8:15 p.m.; their laughter paying homage to all who helped organize and volunteer for what was clearly one of the most successful events of the season.