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Family Newsletter May 2024

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A Note From the Directors

Dear Camp Families,

As we eagerly anticipate the start of another extraordinary summer at our beloved RLGC, I am filled with excitement and anticipation for the adventures that lie ahead. With less than 50 days until our gates open for our 108th season, the energy is palpable, and we are all eagerly preparing for the cherished traditions, heartwarming moments, and endless memories that await.

From the sparkle of the dancing diamonds to the lively atmosphere of our dining room, from the enchantment of our weekly shows to the boundless joy of our lake and activities, each day promises to be filled with laughter, friendship, and growth.

As we count down the days until we reunite, I am reminded of the special bond that unites us as a camp community—a bond that transcends time and generations. Together, we will create another summer filled with moments that will last a lifetime.

I cannot wait to welcome each and every one of you back to our home away from home. Here’s to a summer filled with endless possibilities and cherished memories

-xoxo Kim

Director, Girls Camp

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Hello Boys Camp Campers and Parents,

Back when my son was a camper at Raquette Lake Boys Camp, it was all I could do in May to keep him focused on school, while he could only think about catching up with old friends and meeting new ones in just a few more short weeks. Every milestone between Memorial Day and meeting the camp bus was a cause for celebration. Packing the trunks was always a big one.

Checking in one last time with his new pen pal was another. And when he got his “camp haircut” he knew, it was go time. Now I see the same starry-eyed anticipation in our staff, a wonderful assemblage of young men from across America and around the world. Every day I take emails and messages from them asking what else they can do to prepare, how they can help, and who can’t wait to meet your boys with the same enthusiasm your boys will have for them when they arrive.

So finally, Opening Day is right around the corner. The kick-off to a year filled with Olympic celebrations and new friendship connections; Final Fours and Color Wars, and a summer vacation worth all the anticipation.

Can’t wait, see you soon.

David Rafferty

Director, Boys Camp

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Program Updates

We’re excited to expand our events between the Boys and Girls camps this summer! This summer, our co-ed program will include both an Olympics celebration and a Western Night event!

In addition to more activities between our camps, we will have plenty of the traditional events and program elements that our campers love! These will include:

  • Team Week (Girls Camp) & Color War (Boys Camp)
  • Intercollegiates (both camps)
  • Final Four (Boys Camp)
  • Luau (Girls Camp) and the Beach Bash (Boys Camp)
  • Counselor Hunt (both camps)
  • Counselor Talent Show (both camps)
  • Dutch Auction (Girls Camp)
  • Camp Sisters (Girls Camp) & Camp Brothers (Boys Camp)
  • Trip Days (both camps)
  • so much more!

Capital Improvements

At Raquette Lake, we believe that continuous improvement to camp facilities and amenities is critical to providing our campers with the best summer possible. In this portion of our monthly parent newsletter, we will fill you in on some of the capital improvements we’ve recently made at RLC!

The Boys Camp Canteen got a makeover last summer, upgrading the facility with both structural and design updates. Additionally, both the Girls Camp and Boys Camp hard courts were updated to include pickleball lines - an improvement the campers absolutely loved! This summer, the Girls Camp will be getting new Aqua Glide trampoline, climbing, and slide structures on the waterfront to enjoy during Free Swim.

Additional highlights:

  • Upgraded kitchen equipment and facilities on both camps
  • Additions to the waterfront at Pioneering
  • Resurfaced basketball courts at both camps
  • New additional softball field at Boys Camp

Guess Who’s Returning for Another Summer at Raquette!

Here’s another look at some of the Head Staff we’re excited to have returning to camp this summer - who are you looking forward to seeing back at Raquette?!

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Gene Stamm

Girls Camp Waterfront Director

20th Summer on Staff

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Stephanie Steren

Camper Relations - Boys Camp

13th Summer on Staff

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“Downtown” Steve Brown

Boys Camp Head of Sail

27th Summer on Staff

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Carrie White

Senior Group Leader

13th Summer at RLGC (4th on Staff, 9 as a camper)

Supy 1998

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Robbie Birnbaum

Senior Group Leader

34th Summer at RLBC (26th on Staff, 8 as a camper)

Aides 1986

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Phoebe Block

Group Leader

13th Summer at RLGC (6th on Staff, 7 as a camper)

Supy 2016

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