Back to Camp 72 Years Later

For Debbie Paschal, Shirley Woodward and Betty Harper it's like an annual reunion, coming back to Lake Aurora Christian Camp where they spent time in the summer of 1947, the camp's inaugural year. The three ladies from Miami, Port Charlotte and Orlando gathered March 7 with about 200 other seniors from about 25 churches for the annual "Young at Heart Day."

"They are from supporting churches so they come back every year – they are just longtime camp friends," said Phyllis Bornemann, who is part of the camp's executive team along with her husband, Steve.

The day began with time for donuts, bagels and coffee. A Senior Expo featured various interest groups, including an antique car show, cornhole toss, silent auction and exploration of the campus via the camp's new shuttle or pontoon boat.

Tony Cason led a worship celebration, and keynote speaker Jim Book from Kissimmee Christian Church spoke about "Slidin' In or Finishing Strong."

Former longtime camp director Bill Redmon gave an update on the Stirring Waters project, a proposed waterpark at Lake Aurora designed to be fully inclusive for those with and without physical limitations.

Attendees received a camp ministry update and door prizes, after which they could enjoy the campus or head for home.

"The purpose of the day is to get people on campus, see what we're doing, talk about summer camp last year and what's coming up," said Steve Bornemann.

Lake Aurora Christian Camp is located at 237 Goldenbough Road, east of Lake Wales. Lake Aurora Christian Assembly is a camp and retreat center dedicated to helping youth and families to develop core values based on Christian principles. Their goal to give each participant a wholesome life experience in an outdoor setting.

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