Write a commentA fun-filled, one-day retreat geared especially for residents, aged 50 and older is scheduled for Tuesday, June 10 at Camp Hollis in Oswego County.
Senior Camp has been taking place the second Tuesday in June and September for 33 years. Registration begins at 8:00 am and activities get underway at 9:15 am and last through the evening meal. With this year’s theme, “Explore Your Horizons,” speakers and activities will focus on exploring new opportunities that enhance our physical and mental wellbeing.
Situated along the shores of Lake Ontario, Camp Hollis is located three miles west of Oswego at 40 Health Camp Road. Sign-ups are encouraged by May 30 as space is limited. There is a fee to attend the retreat. To register, email Sue Brown at susiebrownie71@gmail.com or call 315-436-2447.
The morning gets underway with a choice of several exercise programs, including Tai Chi, led by Caroline Behr and Drums Alive lead by Margie Minor. Tai Chi is a gentle stretching exercise regimen taking place outside with beautiful Lake Ontario as a backdrop. Drums Alive, led by Margie Minor, uses drumsticks on exercise balls and movement set to various music styles. Both regimens are credited with overall well-being including better balance and can be practiced anywhere by anyone of any age. Behr and Minor lead weekly classes at the Ohio Street Studio in Oswego.
Following Tai Chi and Drums Alive will be a presentation by John Pupparo on “Wood Carving - Tools and Techniques" with samples of John’s carvings on display. In the afternoon, Campers will have an opportunity to try their hand at sculpting their own creations.
Recreational activities throughout the day include archery, a ropes course, guided walk in the woods lead by Camp Director Zach Grulich and chair exercises by Cathy Bonoffski. There is also plenty of free time to socialize and explore some of Camp Hollis’ 40 acres and trails.
Musical entertainment follows the hot noon meal, featuring “Frank & Julie” (Frank Stepanek & Julie Clement) from Oswego. They focus primarily on the 60's & 70’s, Rock & Reggae; Blues & Originals. Frank performed professionally for 30 years on lead guitar and Julie 15 years on keys and bass. Both are lead and support vocalists.
Always a highlight of the Senior Camp experience are afternoon crafts. Two choices will be offered: Wood Carving and Acrylic Pouring Techniques (Reverse Napkin Flower Dip and the Chain Pull), led by Deborah Harlander, a member of the Salmon River Fine Arts Center.
Other Camp experiences include an auction, bingo, and door prize giveaways along with snacks and drinks made available throughout the day. Attendees can also relax outside on a spacious deck to enjoy the views of Lake Ontario.
Prior to the evening meal, Sara Sunday, Aging Services Administrator from Oswego County Office for the Aging, will discuss new and exciting opportunities for seniors to explore including the Senior Center Grand Opening, cooking lessons and computer classes.
The day winds down with a box supper, make-your-own ice cream sundaes, singing and camp stories (in the Lodge or around the Camp Fire).
Senior Camp relies on the generosity of program presenters, donors, and area businesses including Burger King, Byrne Dairy, Dunkin’, Ontario Orchards, Price Chopper, Walmart, Stewart’s Shops, Tops Friendly Markets. Oswego Big M, Bosco’s Meats, Domino’s Pizza, Oswego Elks Lodge #271, GJP Italian Eatery, Hudson Dairy, Pepsi Corporation, Coca-Cola Corporation, Huhtamaki, and OCO Nutritional Services.
“We hope that you can join us at Camp Hollis. You can reconnect with campers and meet new friends as well. We are sure that you will experience an exciting and fun day,” said Therese Watchus, Senior Camp Coordinator. For questions or more information on the event, call Therese at 315-591-8537.
Senior Camp takes place twice a year while students are still in school. It is affiliated with Friends of Camp Hollis and the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). Camp Hollis events are managed by Zach Grulich, Director of Recreation & Youth Development, as a program of the Oswego County Youth Bureau.
