Last Friday was bittersweet at Camp Rising Sun. The first group of campers hugged, cried and left for home. Within just hours, Camp was filled with generations of Rising Suns to celebrate for our annual reunion. The LAJF team could not be happier to welcome home so many alumni, and in fact, we were fully sold out. Next year, we plan to offer more tickets and rent a large tent for the lawn.

Guests stayed at Camp on tent hill, some with their children and partners or their reunion group. Others filled up the local hotels and joined us for activities. Highlights included a lovely cocktail reception filled with hugs between old friends and interesting new connections. We were fortunate enough to welcome David Ives, ’90-’00, for a screening of his Emmy-award winning film Albert Schweitzer: My Life is My Argument.

Saturday was Mandy and Libby day, where we took part in instructions, and recognized some of our outstanding volunteers. Pete Comas ’89, was awarded LAJF 2017 Volunteer of the Year. Additionally, Ritam Mehta, Jonathan Robertson (who also cooked a delicious smoked BBQ on Saturday), Karen Schatzel, and Cord Campbell were recognized for their exceptional contributions to their committees.

Furthermore, we celebrated Cameron Rylance’s 10th Anniversary with LAJF. Cameron said that he loves working at LAJF, and interacting with the camper. “When you love what you do, it’s not considered work,” he said. We hope to have him for another 10+ years.

We appreciate everyone who serves the Foundation in any capacity. Thank you to all.

Also this weekend, several members of the Buildings and Grounds Committee lead a group tour of the Red Hook campus. Those who went on the tour explored the campus grounds and went inside some of the buildings. It was a stroll down memory lane for some of the alumni, and for others, it was their first time visiting the Red Hook campus.

The weekend was filled with joy, and many of the attendees expressed that they had a good time. For those who were unable to make it, your presence was missed, and we look forward to seeing you at next year’s Alumni Weekend.

Finally, let’s give a big How How to the volunteers and staff who helped organize the weekend. If you are interested in serving on the Reunion Committee for 2018, email us at alumini@lajf.org.