Issue link: https://imageup.uberflip.com/i/1542720
Chris Bessey has been the heart and soul of the OHCC clubhouse for the past 22 years. Recently this writer had the chance to sit down with Chris and hear about the history of the pool - along with a few choice stories. Chris came to OHCC in 2004. For many years, she was the pool manager in addition to being the Recreation Director. Originally the pool had a diving board in what is now known as "the deep end." There was also a high lifeguard chair. She remembers hiring college students to be Pool Monitors in the summer months during the hours of 11 am - 2 pm. That was not successful however, as residents did not want to listen to a teenager telling them what to do! Chris was a stickler about having the pool cover put on every evening. She felt that it saved quite a bit in energy costs. A major event in the pool history happened a few years after Chris came to OHCC. The entire pool deck, plus the Palm Court had to be replaced. It was discovered that the concrete had been poured without using any rebar, so everything was starting to cave in. All of the plumbing and electrical had to be replaced before the new concrete was poured. Chris remembers that the pool area was completely closed for over six months during that construction. Not a great time for swimmers! Chris confirmed that the rumor is true about a resident who died in the pool. This very elderly man apparently had a heart attack while swimming. It was in the evening and he was alone. Chris still encourages swimmers to swim with a partner because of this. She also remembers a few instances where local teens sneaked in at night and had a fun time in the pool. That was when Chris insisted that the gates be locked at night. Chris can't confirm this, but she heard many stories related to the pool when OHCC first opened. There were some folks who liked to gather a group of friends in the evening and skinny dip! Chris is a firm believer that HOA staff should always solicit input from residents about policies that affect them. She says "ask the people on the ground" because they are the ones who know best about day-to-day activities. Chris has been a staunch supporter of the Swim & Wellness Club and has been a true ally with us in shaping pool policy, always consulting the club's Board about any new implementations. We don't have any authority, but Chris always listens and she often takes our suggestions. Chris, you will be missed! Thank you for your support of the S & W club and for always listening. Written by Sara Stewart Swim & Wellness Club 42 | OHCC LIVING | FEBRUARY 2026 | Look closely and you can see the diving board and lifeguard chair Lifeguard chair and the original brick decking (plus two non-residents!)