Surprise Lake Camp

No Surprises Here . . . Surprise Lake Camp’s 110th Anniversary Gala a Smashing Success

New York, NY, March 31, 2012 --(PR.com)-- Surprise Lake Camp celebrated its 110th Anniversary with a gala at the Marriott Marquis on Saturday, March 10, 2012. Over 400 alumni, supporters, and friends gathered together to honor 110 years of camping and congratulate three special people who have given years of service to the camp.

One of the honorees, Joy Henshel of Scarsdale, NY, a member of the Board of Directors for 50 years said, “Twas a night to remember! It has been an honor and a pleasure to see Surprise Lake grow and change over the past 50 years. I am thrilled to have made a difference in the lives of young people for these many years.” Another honoree, Joel “Whammy” Kaufman of Bayside, NY, who has been a memorable staff member at the camp for almost 40 years, said
“making friends at summer camp creates a lifetime of experiences and memories that you can’t get anywhere else. Surprise Lake has helped shape my life.” The final honoree, Milton Herson (1927-2011) of Boca Raton, Florida was an incredible advocate for SLC. Although Milton passed away in September, his family attended the gala and accepted the honor on his behalf. His wife Arlene Herson said “Milton would have been so proud to be here and to share his stories about his years at camp.” Each honoree was presented with a crystal sailboat to commemorate this milestone.

During the event Executive Director, Jordan Dale, went public with a capital campaign that the leadership of the camp has been developing. Almost $1.8 million has already been raised from the Board of Directors and targeted alumni. “The campaign’s next phase begins now, with a total goal of $3 million,” said Mr. Dale. “This addition to our endowment will help ensure our ability to provide scholarships for the next 110 years.”

Founded in 1902, Surprise Lake is the oldest Jewish resident camp in the country that still serves its original population at its original site. In its 110 years, the camp has grown from six tents for 25 children and five counselors to over 200 structures for 475 campers and a staff of 250. Located on 450 wooded acres near Cold Spring, New York, the camp features a sliding fee scale based on income and family size. In 2011 alone, SLC awarded almost $900,000 in scholarships. At the same time, the camp’s site, program, and staff make it one of the finest Jewish camps in the country, and one of the most reputable.

SLC will continue to celebrate its 110th Anniversary throughout the summer of 2012 at the camp’s site in Cold Spring, NY. People seeking information about Surprise Lake Camp can call 212-924-3131 or visit www.surpriselake.org.
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Surprise Lake Camp
Sheryl Kirschenbaum
212-924-3131
www.surpriselake.org
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