Camp Good Days

Project T.I.P.S.

Fri, 31 Dec 9999 23:59:59 EST

Gary Mervis, Chairman of the Project Exile Advisory Board, along with Rochester Police Chief, David Moore, and Reverend Marlowe Washington of the You Bet I Told Campaign, as well as numerous other community and law enforcement representatives, announced a new community initiative, Project T.I.P.S.

The groups will visit residents within the neighborhoods to create conversations about quality of life issues, as well as to hopefully obtain information about the crime and violence that has plagued the neighborhood, in an anonymous format for residents, and to provide residents with information and contacts they can use regarding services that range from health care issues (cancer, diabetes, heart disease) to reporting information for things such as crime, vandalism, and fire.

Project T.I.P.S. stands for Trust, Information, Programs & Services, and includes community agencies and law enforcement personnel working in selected neighborhoods to rebuild trust amongst residents and share information. Project T.I.P.S. kicked off on Wednesday, August 13, 2008 in the Dewey Avenue and Driving Park neighborhoods of Rochester, NY.

Project T.I.P.S. culminated with a community cookout and get together, at Dewey Avenue and Driving Park, where residents could obtain more information from service providers and law enforcement agencies, as well as have some hot dogs and hamburgers, and have the opportunity to visit with their neighbors that they know and meet some neighbors they may not know.

"There are many law-abiding citizens in our community who are tired of the crime and violence, yet may not know how to voice those concerns or are fearful of repercussions from reporting incidents," says Mervis."Project T.I.P.S. will provide residents and community members the opportunity to share issues they are facing, in a safe and anonymous format, while also giving them tools and information they can use in the future."

"The hope is that the initial Project T.I.P.S. effort and event will be the beginning of an on-going initiative in various neighborhoods throughout Greater Rochester during the year," says Mervis.

Project T.I.P.S. came about as a result of the efforts of Project Exile; a joint law enforcement and community initiative which works to remove illegal guns from the streets of our community.Since its inception, 10 years ago, Project Exile has been instrumental in assisting in the removal of more than 4000 crime guns from our streets; and the You Bet I Told Campaign, led by Reverend Washington. Project T.I.P.S. has quickly evolved into a community-wide effort with support and participation from the Rochester Police Department, Rochester Fire Department, New York State Police, New York State Parole, Pathways to Peace, Monroe County Probation, Monroe County Sheriff's Department, Monroe County Department of Human Services, and the Humane Society at Lollypop Farm, in addition to Project Exile and You Bet I Told.

For more information about Project Exile or Project T.I.P.S. please contact James R. McCauley, Jr. at the Partners Against Violence Everywhere (PAVE) Initiative, a program of Camp Good Days and Special Times, at 585-624-5555 or via email, jmccauley@campgooddays.org.

For more information about Project T.I.P.S. or the You Bet I Told Campaign., please contact Reverend Washington at Baber AME Church, 585-461-1395 or via email at rev.baberamechurch@frontiernet.net.

Camp Good Days Relocates Southern Tier Office to Ithaca

Fri, 31 Dec 9999 23:59:59 EST

Camp Good Days and Special Times' Chairman & Founder, Gary Mervis, has announced that the Southern Tier Office has been relocated to Ithaca, New York. The office is located at 179 Graham Road, Suite B, Ithaca, NY 14850. The Ithaca Office will be open Monday – Friday, from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. The office phone number is 607-266-9180, fax number is 607-266-9181, and email, mkreydt@campgooddays.org.

Camp Good Days and Special Times is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization, dedicated to improving the quality of life for children, adults, and families whose lives have been touched by cancer and other life challenges. Camp Good Days was founded 30 years ago, by Mervis, following the diagnosis of his youngest daughter, Teddi, with a malignant brain tumor. What was started to provide a residential camping experience for Teddi and 62 other children dealing with cancer, has grown to become one of the largest organizations of its kind in the country and many of the programs and services started by Camp Good Days have been used as models by other cancer treatment centers and organizations all over the world. Since its inception, Camp Good Days has had many campers, volunteers and supporters from the Ithaca and surrounding areas and over the past 30 years, Camp Good Days has served more than 41,000 campers from 22 states and 25 foreign countries.

So as not to place any additional financial burden on those families served, all of the programs and services provided by Camp Good Days are offered free of charge for the participants. This is only possible because of the generosity of so many individuals, organizations, and businesses, and the success of special fundraising events.

Camp Good Days maintains their Headquarters & Volunteer Training Center in Mendon, New York, and the Recreational Facility, where all of the residential camping programs take place, is located on the shores of Keuka Lake, in Branchport, New York. Camp Good Days also has office locations in Buffalo and Syracuse, New York.

While this is the first time that Camp Good Days has had an office in Ithaca, children and families from the Greater Ithaca area and throughout the entire Southern Tier Region have been a part of Camp Good Days' programs and services for the past 30 years.

The idea for opening a Camp Good Days' Office in the Ithaca area came about through discussions between Mervis and longtime volunteer and former staff member, Frank Towner. Towner, who is the Associate Executive Director for the YMCA of Ithaca and Tompkins County, has been a part of the Camp Good Days' family since its inception 30 years ago. Towner and his wife, Melanie, a Social Worker, met at Camp Good Days and now have three children and reside in Groton.

Most recently, as part of Camp Good Days' 30^th Anniversary Celebration, which is taking place throughout 2009, Mervis asked Towner to update the existing Camp Good Days' logo, as Towner does some commercial artwork. When Camp Good Days first began, the logo was a stick figure and following that first summer, Mervis asked a graphic designer, Sean McCormack, to create a new logo for the organization. McCormack, going through photos from that first camping session noticed that there was a clown in many of the photos and asked Mervis if he could build the logo around that clown. That clown, Crossroads, was Frank Towner, who at the time was a student at Monroe Community College and had volunteered to assist with that first program. Towner arrived at Camp Good Days, held then at Camp Eagle Cove on Fourth Lake in Inlet, New York, as Crossroads the Clown and quickly became a fixture at Camp Good Days and a favorite with the campers. McCormack created the Camp Good Days' logo, with three main elements: Crossroads the Clown; a brick wall; and balloons. Each element symbolizes an integral part of Camp Good Days. The balloons represent the ever-present hope that exists at Camp Good Days. The clown represents the campers, who never let go of that hope, and the brick wall represents the cancer each camper faces daily. At Camp Good Days, clinging to that hope and faith, campers surmount their "walls" and are able to celebrate life with others who have learned to appreciate it the most.

Towner graciously accepted Mervis' request and designed the updated logo, which features Crossroads, the brick wall and the balloons, but demonstrates that the campers have now kicked through that brick wall of cancer and are now becoming long-term survivors of their battle.

In addition, Mark & Marcie Kreydt have been instrumental in driving these efforts to open a Camp Good Days' Office in Ithaca. Kryedt, Vice President at Tompkins Insurance Agencies, Inc. is the former Head Football Coach at the University of Rochester and was one of the key people involved with the development of the Courage Bowl, the annual football game between St. John Fisher College and the University of Rochester, dedicated to the children of Camp Good Days. This coming fall, Courage Bowl V will be played on Saturday, September 19, 2009 at Growney Stadium on the campus of St. John Fisher College. Kreydt has also taken a week of his vacation time during the summer to volunteer at Camp Good Days' Recreational Facility for one of the residential camping programs for children with cancer. Kreydt, along with his wife, Marcie, and their three children relocated to the Ithaca area last year and have continued their support of and volunteer work with Camp Good Days.

"The thousands of volunteers who help us do all that we do, for so many children, adults and families dealing with cancer have been and continue to be the lifeline of Camp Good Days," says Mervis. "With both Cornell and Ithaca College, the students, faculty and staff at these educational institutions, as well as the vibrant community in Ithaca and Tompkins County made this decision an easy one." "We are all very excited to have the Ithaca Office of Camp Good Days open and hope to increase the support of many more volunteers to help us continue providing our programs and services for all those who need them in Ithaca and the Southern Tier Region."

Camp Good Days will host an Open House at the Ithaca Office on Sunday, March 1, 2009 from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. The Open House will be informal, refreshments will be served, and attendees will have the opportunity to meet some of the staff members and volunteers, as well as to obtain more information about the many programs and services provided by Camp Good Days and learn about the different volunteer opportunities available. Those interested in attending the Camp Good Days' Open House should RSVP to Marcie Kreydt at 607-266-9180 or mkreydt@campgooddays.org.

For more information about any of the programs or services, to learn about volunteer opportunities or to make a tax-deductible donation, please call 585-624-5555 or 800-785-2135 or visit www.campgooddays.org. # # #

Gamma Phi Beta Sorority Takes Campers to Feats of Clay

Fri, 31 Dec 9999 23:59:59 EST

Sisters from the Gamma Phi Beta Sorority will join 10 campers from Camp Good Days and Special Times, for a very special afternoon at Feats of Clay, 129 East Seneca Street, Manlius, on Friday, February 20, 2009 from 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM.

The campers, all girls between the ages of 6-10, who are part of Camp Good Days' programs and services for children touched by cancer will partner with the Gamma Phi Beta sisters and choose a piece of pottery to paint and decorate. They will also have snacks and beverages while completing their projects. Gamma Phi Beta is generously sponsoring this very special afternoon for Camp Good Days.

Camp Good Days and Special Times was founded 30 years ago, by Gary Mervis, following the diagnosis of his youngest daughter, Teddi, with a malignant brain tumor. What was started to provide a residential camping experience for Teddi and 62 other children from Upstate New York (21 from Rochester, 21 from Syracuse, 21 from Buffalo), dealing with cancer, has grown to become one of the largest organizations of its kind in the country and many of the programs and services started by Camp Good Days have been used as models by other cancer treatment centers and organizations all over the world. Since its inception, Camp Good Days has served more than 41,000 campers from 22 states and 25 foreign countries.

Camp Good Days and Special Times is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization, dedicated to improving the quality of life for children, adults, and families whose lives have been touched by cancer and other life challenges. For more information about any of the programs or services, to learn about volunteer opportunities or to make a tax-deductible donation, please call 315-434-9477 or 800-785-2135 or visit our website at www.campgooddays.org. # # #

Project T.I.P.S.

Fri, 31 Dec 9999 23:59:59 EST

PROJECT T.I.P.S. – Dayton Street

Trust, Information, Programs & Services

Rochester, NY ~ Project T.I.P.S., which stands for Trust, Information, Programs & Services, and includes community agencies and law enforcement personnel working in selected neighborhoods to rebuild trust amongst residents and share information, was held this past Friday, February 20, 2009, in the Dayton Street neighborhood.

During Project T.I.P.S. groups visited residents within the neighborhood to create conversations about quality of life issues, as well as to obtain information about the crime and violence that has plagued the neighborhood, in an anonymous format for residents, and to provide residents with information and contacts they can use regarding services that range from health care issues (cancer, diabetes, heart disease) to reporting information for things such as crime, vandalism, and fire. Project T.I.P.S. also included a community cookout, on Dayton Street, where residents came to obtain more information from service provider and law enforcement agencies, as well as have some hot dogs and hamburgers, and have the opportunity to visit with their neighbors that they know and meet some neighbors they may not know. Project T.I.P.S. concluded with a special Prayer Service, led by Reverend Marlowe Washington, of Baber AME Church and the You Bet I Told campaign, in honor of Rochester Police Department Officer DiPonzio and members of law enforcement.

"There are many law-abiding citizens in our community who are tired of the crime and violence, yet may not know how to voice those concerns or are fearful of repercussions from reporting incidents," says Gary Mervis, Chairman of the Project Exile Advisory Board. "Project T.I.P.S. provides residents and community members the opportunity to share issues they are facing, in a safe and anonymous format, while also giving them tools and information they can use in the future."

Project T.I.P.S. came about as a result of the efforts of Project Exile; a joint law enforcement and community initiative, which works to remove illegal guns from the streets of our community, and the You Bet I Told Campaign. Project T.I.P.S. has quickly evolved into a community-wide effort with support and participation from the Rochester Police Department, Rochester Fire Department, New York State Police, New York State Parole, Pathways to Peace, Monroe County Probation, Monroe County Sheriff's Department, Monroe County Department of Human Services, and the Humane Society at Lollypop Farm, in addition to Project Exile and You Bet I Told.

The next Project T.I.P.S. event is scheduled for Thursday, April 16, 2009 in the Jefferson Avenue neighborhood.

For more information about Project T.I.P.S. or the You Bet I Told Campaign., please contact Reverend Washington at Baber AME Church, 585-461-1395 or via email at rev.baberamechurch@frontiernet.net.

PHOTO:

Left to Right: James R. McCauley, Jr., PAVE Coordinator at Camp Good Days; Tony Perez of the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services; Dr. John Klofas, Professor of Criminal Justice at RIT; Gary Mervis, Chairman & Founder of Camp Good Days and Chairman of the Project Exile Advisory Board; a Dayton Street resident and her daughter; Hanif Abdul-Wahid of Monroe County Department of Planning; Rochester Police Department Deputy Chief, Glenn Hoff; and Rochester Police Department Commander, Jeff Clark; pose in front of the new Project Exile billboards. The portable billboard was made available during Project T.I.P.S. on Dayton Street on Friday, February 20^th, by Lamar Outdoor Advertising. Fifteen of these new billboards are currently being posted throughout the City of Rochester.

Couarge Rowing Program

Fri, 31 Dec 9999 23:59:59 EST

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The Camp Good Days' COURAGE Rowing Program is open to all women who are dealing with cancer and limited space is still available. The goal of the COURAGE Rowing Program is to provide the women with the opportunity to learn and improve rowing techniques, improve flexibility and improve core strength. Learning to row provides a great, low-impact, yet total body workout. The Camp Good Days' COURAGE Rowing Program is very team-oriented, providing fun as well as stress relief. Rowing can help women dealing with or recovering from cancer, develop a healthy and strong body, mind, and spirit. Rowing can help them assert control over their body, rediscovering the joy of movement, aiding in personal recovery and growth.

Camp Good Days' COURAGE Rowing Program was established in 2006 after Gary Mervis, Chairman & Founder of Camp Good Days, read a story in MAMM Magazine regarding a group of breast cancer survivors who raced in the prestigious Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston. Mervis thought this would be a great opportunity for the women who participated in the Women's Oncology Programs at Camp Good Days and another way in which they could come together, in a recreational and support environment, with other women who truly understand what they are going through…other women dealing with cancer.

The Camp Good Days' COURAGE Rowing Program has grown significantly since 2006 and some of the women finished in First Place in their division at the Head of the Genesee Regatta this past fall and achieved one of their goals as they competed in the prestigious Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston, Massachusetts this past October. Based on the initial group's enjoyment and success with the program, Camp Good Days decided to offer additional sessions of the COURAGE Rowing Program during 2009.

Camp Good Days has been holding sessions of the COURAGE Rowing Program throughout this winter. Following these sessions, Camp Good Days will offer the Women's Oncology Adventure / Rowing Program, August 21-23, 2009, a special weekend camping program at their own Recreational Facility, located on the shores of Kueka Lake, for the COURAGE Rowing Program participants and other women dealing with cancer.

As with all of the programs and services provided by Camp Good Days, the COURAGE Rowing Program, is offered free of charge for the participants. Those interested in learning more and participating may contact Tamara Federico, Women's Oncology Program Coordinator at Camp Good Days, 585-624-5555 or tfederico@campgooddays.org.

The Women's Oncology Rowing Program is part of the year-round support and recreational activities that the Women's Oncology Program at Camp Good Days offers. The program gives women the opportunity to meet other women who have undergone similar experiences dealing with cancer. The Women's Oncology Program provides women with cancer the opportunity to share life experiences. Designed by women, for women, these programs address the risks, fears and barriers of everyday life that most women face during and after treatment. All of the programs aim to help women strengthen and rebuild their physical and emotional well-being. The Women's Oncology Program has gained national recognition as part of a five part series on breast cancer on Good Morning America, on the Lifetime Channel and has been featured in Ladies Home Journal and MAMM Magazine as well as in numerous television and newspaper features.

Winter sessions of the rowing program will be announced in October 2009.

Camp Good Days and Special Times was founded 30 years ago, in Rochester, New York, by Gary Mervis, following the diagnosis of his youngest daughter, Teddi, with a malignant brain tumor. What was started to provide a residential camping experience for Teddi and 62 other children dealing with cancer, has grown to become one of the largest organizations of its kind in the country and many of the programs and services started by Camp Good Days have been used as models by other cancer treatment centers and organizations all over the world. Since its inception, Camp Good Days has served more than 41,000 campers from 22 states and 25 foreign countries.

Camp Good Days and Special Times is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization, dedicated to improving the quality of life for children, adults, and families whose lives have been touched by cancer and other life challenges. For more information about any of the programs or services, to learn about volunteer opportunities or to make a tax-deductible donation, please call 585-624-5555 or 800-785-2135 or visit our website at www.campgooddays.org.

CAMP GOOD DAYS’ 30th ANNIVERSARY REUNION WEEKEND

Fri, 31 Dec 9999 23:59:59 EST

Camp Good Days will hold a very special 30th Anniversary Reunion Weekend, for those former campers and volunteers who were a part of the first 10 years of Camp Good Days, from Friday, October 2, 2009 through Sunday, October 4, 2009 at their own, beautiful Recreational Facility, located on the shores of Keuka Lake in Branchport, New York. The weekend will include the chance for participants to tour the facility and take advantage of the various activity areas, as well as spend time re-connecting with other former campers and volunteers. For more information about the Camp Good Days' 30th Anniversary Reunion Weekend, please call Camp Good Days at 585-624-5555 or 800-785-2135

KICK IT Kicking Academy 2009

Wed, 27 May 2009 00:00:00 EST

KICK IT Kicking Academy with
Steve Christie & Gary Mervis!

Saturday, July 11, 2009 – St. John Fisher College

Mendon, NY ~ Camp Good Days and Special Times' Chairman & Founder, Gary Mervis, has announced that he and former NFL Place Kicker, Steve Christie, will hold their annual KICK IT Kicking Academy on Saturday, July 11, 2009 at Growney Stadium on the campus of St. John Fisher College, 3690 East Avenue, Rochester, from 9:00 AM – 12:00 Noon.

KICK IT is open to any aspiring kicker including those playing youth, modified, junior varsity, varsity or college football and provides the opportunity for participants to improve upon their skills and techniques. KICK IT will also include drills, and participants will have the chance to get their questions answered about off-season and pre-season practice, conditioning and strength training and overall preparation for the upcoming season.

The cost to attend the KICK IT Kicking Academy is a $100.00 donation, per participant, to Camp Good Days and Special Times, which includes a commemorative KICK IT T-Shirt and KICK IT Instructional DVD. Registration Forms are available by contacting Camp Good Days at 585-624-5555 or 800-785-2135 or can be found online. (PDF 830kb)

Steve Christie attended the College of William & Mary where he honed his kicking skills, and went on to a 15 year career in the NFL, kicking for the Buffalo Bills, San Diego Chargers and the New York Giants. Throughout his career, Steve supported Camp Good Days by making a donation for every successful field goal. His contributions helped to provide an Arts & Crafts activity area at the Camp Good Days' Recreational Facility, as Steve is also an artist himself. Steve continues to support the many programs and services of Camp Good Days by donating a percentage of the sales of his paintings, as well as donating original works of art for Camp Good Days' special fundraising events, most recently for the Ninth Annual Finger Lakes International Wine Competition & Auction Dinner.

In addition to his work as Chairman & Founder of Camp Good Days, Gary Mervis will enter his 20^th season as a Special Teams and Kicking Coach for the St. John Fisher College Cardinals this fall. Many of the players coached by Mervis during his tenure at St. John Fisher College, both as place kickers and punters, have been All-Conference; All-American and have gone on to play professionally in both the Arena Football League and Indoor Football League. In recognition of his service and dedication, Mervis was inducted into the St. John Fisher College's Athletics Hall of Fame in 2007.

All of the proceeds from KICK IT Kicking Academy benefit the many programs and services at Camp Good Days, which was founded 30 years ago, in Rochester, New York, by Mervis, following the diagnosis of his youngest daughter, Teddi, with a malignant brain tumor. What was started to provide a residential camping experience for Teddi and 62 other children dealing with cancer, has grown to become one of the largest organizations of its kind in the country and many of the programs and services started by Camp Good Days have been used as models by other cancer treatment centers and organizations all over the world. Since its inception, Camp Good Days has served more than 41,000 campers from 22 states and 25 foreign countries.

Photos:
- Participants at the KICK IT Kicking Academy in 2008, held at St. John Fisher College.
- Steve Christie explains kicking and punting techniques at the KICK IT Kicking Academy.

Third Annual Ryan J. McPhee Memorial Golf Tournament

Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 EST

Third Annual Ryan J. McPhee Memorial Golf
Tournament to Benefit Camp Good Days!

Mendon, NY ~ The Third Annual Ryan J. McPhee Memorial Golf Tournament will be held on Sunday, July 19, 2009 at Eagle Vale Golf Club, 4344 Nine Mile Point Road, Fairport. All proceeds from the Third Annual Ryan J. McPhee Memorial Golf Tournament will benefit the many programs and services provided by Camp Good Days and Special Times, for children, adults and families whose lives have been touched by cancer and other life threatening challenges.

The Third Annual Ryan J. McPhee Memorial Golf Tournament includes 18 holes of golf with a cart, lunch on the turn, hors de oeuvres and dinner. Registration for the Third Annual Ryan J. McPhee Memorial Golf Tournament begins at 11:00 AM, followed by a Shotgun Start at 12:30 PM. The tournament follows a scramble format and concludes with dinner, raffle and awards at 6:00 PM.

Awards will be presented to the top three teams, as well as for Closest to the Pin and Longest Drive, for both men and women. Mulligans, 50/50 Raffle Tickets and Silent Auction Items will also be available.

Golfers may register for $100.00 per person and those interested in attending dinner only may do so for $35.00 per person. Participants may register via www.tournevents.com/Ryan. More information is also available by contacting Amy Richardson at Amy_Q_Richardson@rochester.rr.com or Jill Fox at jill@foxmethods.com.

This event is organized by the friends and family of Ryan J. McPhee, who passed away on June 29, 2006, at the age of 11 after a six and a half year battle with Leukemia. It is their way of keeping Ryan's spirit alive, honoring a little boy who made a big impact on the lives of so many, and at the same time raising money for Camp Good Days.

Country Music Legend Ronnie Milsap Will Perform For Camp Good Days 30th!

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:00 EST

Camp Good Days Celebrates 30^th Anniversary!
I Wouldn't Have Missed It For The World!
Featuring Music Legend, Ronnie Milsap!

Saturday, June 27, 2009 8:00 PM
Pre-Show VIP Reception 6:30 PM

Theater On The Ridge - Rochester, NY

WALK-UP TICKETS WILL BE SOLD UNTIL SHOWTIME!

Tickets
VIP Tickets
$150.00 Per Person	Entry into the VIP Reception with Food & Beverages Reserved Seating For The Show Post-Show Desserts and Coffee VIP Tickets	Order Tickets Online
Reserved / General Tickets
$75.00 Reserved Seating $50.00 Reserved Seating $30.00 Reserved Seating		Order Tickets Online
Sponsorship Packages are also available by contacting Camp Good Days at 585-624-5555 or 800-785-2135.

Hosted by Honorary Chairs: Skip & Rosemary DeBiase, Steve & Lynn Natapow, Richard & Marcia Kaplan, Bob & Diane Bleier, and Chris McVicker & Bernadette Guzzardo, Camp Good Days will celebrate and commemorate their 30th Anniversary Year on Saturday, June 27, 2009 with an up-close and personal concert featuring music legend, Ronnie Milsap, when he brings his new show, I Wouldn't Have Missed It For The World, to Kodak's Theater on the Ridge.

Ronnie Milsap ranks as the pre-eminent country soul singer of his generation. He also represents much more than any two-word definition can convey: a humble, overtly friendly fellow with a talent as vast and multi-dimensional as the American South. Milsap provided country music with one of its most important voices as the genre was moving beyond rits rural roots into the mainstream of modern entertainment.

Steeped in the mountain music of the North Carolina hills and schooled in classical piano, Milsap early in life found inspiration in a wide variety of music. Even as he mastered Beethoven and Mozart, his heart belonged to hardcore country and rhythm-and-blues…music he heard beamed from powerful radio stations located in Nashville. Those earthy sounds about life and love provided a young, impoverished blind boy with a connection to a world beyond the harsh reality of his daily existence. Eventually, an adult Milsap forged his myriad of influences into a cosmopolitan style of country music that helped revolutionize Nashville. His track record speaks loud and clear: 40 #1 hits, over 25 million records sold, seven Grammy Awards, four Academy of Country Music Awards, and eight Country Music Association Awards. Together, they underscore Milsap's position as one of the best-loved and most enduring artists in country music history.

In addition to being the celebratory event for Camp Good Days' 30th Anniversary, this event holds very special personal meaning for Mervis. Thirty years ago, the night before Teddi was going in for her craniotomy, Mervis was at the hospital, as he didn't want to leave his daughter's room. The nurse in charge ended up telling him that he had to leave, as Teddi needed her rest before her surgery. He left around 11:30 PM that Thursday evening and it was a beautiful May night, so he put the top down and pulled onto Elmwood Avenue, in Rochester, where there was no traffic. He turned on the radio and a song came on that he had never heard before. He didn't know who was singing it, but every last word resonated with how he was feeling about what Teddi and his family was going through. The next day, after Teddi was out of surgery, he went to the store and after trying to explain the song he had heard to the clerk, it turns out that it was I Wouldn't Have Missed It For The World, by Ronnie Milsap. He bought the tape and over Teddi's 2 year and 9 month battle, if he played that song once, he played it a thousand times, including at her funeral.

I Wouldn't Have Missed It For The World is being sponsored by Time Warner, 92.5 WBEE, The County of Monroe, TOPS, Messenger Post Media, Lamar Outdoor Advertising, Bonadio Financial Services, Constellation Brands, Inc., Canandaigua National Bank & Trust, and Dominion Resources.

A few Sponsorship Packages still remain, including Celebration Sponsors ($5000.00) and Courage Sponsors ($2500.00). VIP Tickets, which are $150.00 per person include a pre-show reception at 6:30 PM, followed by the show at 8:00 PM. Reserved seating tickets are available for $75.00 per person; $50.00 per person, and $30.00 per person.

Sponsorship Packages are available by contacting Camp Good Days at 585-624-5555 or 800-785-2135. Tickets may be purchased online via www.campgooddays.org or at www.ticketmaster.com or any Ticketmaster Retail Outlet.

CAMP GOOD DAYS’ NIGHT AT THE RED WINGS

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 00:00:00 EST

Camp Good Days will be the special guests of the Rochester Red Wings on Friday, August 28, 2009, when they take on the Buffalo Bisons at Frontier Field at 7:05 PM. The Red Wings' players will be wearing special Camp Good Days' jerseys, which will be based on the winning design of a camper, selected through a contest, and the jerseys will be available for auction following the game, with proceeds benefiting Camp Good Days

CAMP GOOD DAYS NEEDS YOUR HELP!

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:00:00 EST

Through the United Way / Red Cross Campaign you can help
to provide some GOOD DAYS & SPECIAL TIMES for some
very special children and families in our community!

CHOOSE CAMP GOOD DAYS!

Choice # 3 Agency ID # 137

Designate all or part of your United Way/ Red Cross Campaign

contribution to Camp Good Days and Special Times!

- Ask your United Way Solicitor for a Donor Option Form

- Complete the form by selecting CHOICE #3, AGENCY ID # 137

- Camp Good Days will receive your generous donation ONLY if you complete the Donor Option Form

Questions…Call Camp Good Days at 585-624-5555 or 800-785-2135

Camp Good Days Kicks Off 30th Anniversary Year!

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST

Longtime Volunteer Creates
Updated Logo & Poster!

Frank Towner signs a print of the Camp Good Days' 30^th Anniversary Logo
for Dorothy Giardino, who volunteers with Camp Good Days

Gary Mervis (right) and Frank Towner, at Camp Good Days' Annual Open House, with the updated Camp Good Days' Logo for the 30^th Anniversary Celebration

Mendon, NY ~ Two-thousand and nine represents a significant milestone for Camp Good Days and Special Times, as they celebrate their 30^th Anniversary Year. Camp Good Days is dedicated to improving the quality of life for children, adults, and families whose lives have been touched by cancer.

Camp Good Days was founded 30 years ago, in Rochester, New York, by Gary Mervis, following the diagnosis of his youngest daughter, Teddi, with a malignant brain tumor. What was started to provide Teddi and 62 other children with cancer (21 from Rochester, 21 from Buffalo, 21 from Syracuse) with a residential camping experience not available to them at the time, has grown to become one of the largest organizations of its kind. Many of the programs and services started by Camp Good Days have been used as models for other cancer treatment centers and organizations around the world and since its inception, Camp Good Days has served more than 41,000 campers from 22 states and 25 foreign countries!

When Camp Good Days first began, the logo was a stick figure and following that first summer, Mervis asked a graphic designer, Sean McCormack, to create a new logo for the organization. McCormack, going through photos from that first camping session noticed that there was a clown in many of the photos and asked Mervis if he could build the logo around that clown. That clown, Crossroads, was Frank Towner, who at the time was a student at Monroe Community College and had volunteered to assist with that first program. Towner arrived at Camp Good Days, held then at Camp Eagle Cove on Fourth Lake in Inlet, New York, as Crossroads the Clown and quickly became a fixture at Camp Good Days and a favorite with the campers. McCormack created the Camp Good Days' logo, with three main elements: Crossroads the Clown; a brick wall; and balloons. Each element symbolizes an integral part of Camp Good Days. The balloons represent the ever-present hope that exists at Camp Good Days. The clown represents the campers, who never let go of that hope, and the brick wall represents the cancer each camper faces daily. At Camp Good Days, clinging to that hope and faith, campers surmount their "walls" and are able to celebrate life with others who have learned to appreciate it the most

As part of Camp Good Days' 30^th Anniversary Celebration, Mervis asked Towner to update the existing logo, as Towner does some commercial artwork, in addition to his position as the Associate Executive Director of the YMCA of Ithaca & Tompkins County. Towner resides in Groton, New York, with his wife Melanie, whom he met when they were both volunteers at Camp Good Days, and their children. Towner graciously accepted Mervis' request and designed the updated logo, which features Crossroads, the brick wall and the balloons, but demonstrates that the campers have now kicked through that brick wall of cancer and are now becoming long-term survivors of their battle.

Camp Good Days' new logo was officially unveiled at the Annual Open House, held on Thursday, January 8, 2009 at the Camp Good Days' Headquarters & Volunteer Training Center in Mendon, New York. Towner and his family were on hand for the unveiling, and he signed prints of the new logo for those in attendance.

"I was so pleased that Gary asked me to create this updated logo, in celebration of Camp Good Days' 30^th Anniversary," says Towner. "Camp Good Days has been and continues to be a very special part of my family's and my life and will become even more so as they open their new office in Ithaca this month."

"Camp Good Days has been built on the shoulders of so many volunteers and supporters," stated Mervis. "I asked Frank to update our logo, as he and Melanie have been such an integral part of our past and present."

When starting Camp Good Days, Mervis made two promises to the many children and families that would be served, and to himself. The first promise was that Camp Good Days would never become a bureaucracy, but would be an organization that made things happen and truly made a difference in the lives of those dealing with cancer and other life threatening challenges. The second was that all of the programs and services would be provided free of charge for the participants. Mervis has been able to keep both of these promises for the past 30 years because of the support and dedication of so many volunteers, like the Towners, and the success of special fundraising events, a number of which will commemorate the 30^th Anniversary Year throughout 2009.

Camp Good Days is hoping to reach as many campers, families, volunteers, and supporters who have been a part of their family over the past 30 years and anyone wishing to obtain more information about the 30^th Anniversary Year or become involved with the 30^th Anniversary planning committee should contact Laura Osborn at Camp Good Days, 585-624-5555 or 800-785-2135 or losborn@campgooddays.org.

ESSEX HOMES’ 3RD DREAMHOUSE FOR CAMP GOOD DAYS NOW FOR SALE!!

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST

View More Images Of the Completed Home!!

Essex Homes, with donations from their sub-contractors and suppliers, once again managed the construction of the DREAMHOUSE to benefit Camp Good Days & Special Times! Over 65 businesses and sub-contractors agreed to donate their featured product, material and labor towards the construction of the home, which is available to purchase and is listed on the open real estate market through RealtyUSA.Com. Sale proceeds from the house will benefit Camp Good Days. Construction of the home began in March.

The two previous DREAMHOUSE projects of 2003 and 2005 raised over $270,000 for Camp Good Days and helped build more dreams at Camp by supporting a new dining hall, heated a dormitory facility that enabled Camp Good Days to provide its programs all year round and allowed completion of much needed renovations including an addition to the Camp's Infirmary. Over 80 businesses donated and participated in these capital projects.

The net proceeds of the 2008 project will support a new playground and pool renovations at the Camp Good Days' 13½-acre recreational facility on the shores of Keuka Lake in the village of Branchport, NY. The Camp will be upgrading from the current wood and metal unit to a new, state-of-the-art plastic/fiberglass playground.

This year's DREAMHOUSE is Essex Homes' "Arlington" design, located 4704 Mosey Lane in the Villas at Brompton in Hamburg. The Villas at Brompton is a new condominium project that offers a convenient lifestyle with little-to-no maintenance for the homeowner.

"As part of their commitment to Camp Good Days and the Dreamhouse project, many of our suppliers upgraded their materials and products used in the home," commented Philip J. Nanula, president of the locally owned and operated building company.

The Arlington has 1900 square feet with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, including a first floor master suite. The kitchen has Corian countertops with a granite island, ceramic tile flooring and Whirlpool appliances. The great room has a vaulted ceiling with a cozy Heatilator gas fireplace," add Nanula. "Expect to be impressed with the richness of hardwood flooring in the formal dining room along with decorative crown molding and an fabulous master bedroom suite with a walk-in closet and whirlpool glamour bath," Nanula continued. Included with the Villas at Brompton is a homeowners association to provide the exterior maintenance of the yard including grass cutting, fertilizing and snow removal. Enjoy comfort and independence with the hassle-free maintenance of a condominium. The Villas at Brompton is located off of McKinley Parkway, south of the McKinley Park Mall. Take McKinley Pkwy to Brompton to Mosey Lane.

Some of the brand name products provided in the home, include a Delta MS Waterproofing system, 30 year Elk Prestique architectural style roof and Lennox 92% high efficiency furnace as well as central air conditioning and Corian countertops, all of which add to the value and beauty of this spectacular villa.

Visit our model located at 4691 Mosey Lane (Located off McKinley Parkway, south of the mall. Take McKinley to Brompton to Mosey Lane) open daily 1-5pm closed Fridays or contact Tom Gorczya at 648-5303 to arrange viewing. You may also find more info here: http://essexhomes.ws/wny_homes_for_sale.php#home87

Marian Ciaramella, from Realty USA is marketing this DREAMHOUSE project for the third straight year. Marian is once again donating her fees and commissions to Camp Good Days & Special Times. She can be reached at 743-7119 or mciaramella@realtyusa.com

The Good News

Fri, 31 Dec 9999 23:59:59 EST

Camp Good Days' Chairman & Founder, Gary Mervis, receives a donation of $5000 from Dennis Sugumele of Dominion Foundation, to support the Teddi's Team residential camping program. Teddi's Team is open to children, ages 8-12, who are dealing with cancer or sickle cell anemia. These children will spend the week of Monday, July 16th – Friday, July 20th at the Camp Good Days' Recreational Facility, on the shores of Keuka Lake.

Rochester Raging Rhinos Visit Camp Good Days!

Fri, 31 Dec 9999 23:59:59 EST

View More Images In Our Photo Gallery...

The Rochester Raging Rhinos Soccer Team visited the Camp Good Days' Recreational Facility, in Branchport NY, on Tuesday, July 29, 2008 to host a Soccer Clinic for the campers who are all children with cancer participating in Camp Good Days' Doing A World Of Good Program. The campers were from the United States as well as from countries around the world including, Bahamas, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Germany, Spain, and Turkey.

The Rhinos hosted Practice and a Soccer Clinic for all of the campers and then had lunch with the campers and volunteers.

Most recently, the campers and chaperones from the visiting countries attended the Rochester Raging Rhinos Soccer Game at PAETEC Park on Friday, July 25, 2008, as part of a fun-filled weekend of travel and special events in both Rochester and Syracuse.

The Doing A World of Good Program was developed to provide campers, volunteers and staff with an international exchange of ideas and experiences from various social, economic and cultural backgrounds while allowing them to explore their differences and share their commonalties. Since its inception in 1989, the Doing A World of Good Program has included children with cancer from 25 different countries.

Professionals and volunteers can spread the vision of Camp Good Days to the caring people who can make a difference in their native countries.The children who participate in this program set an example for the rest of the world as they make many new friendships and rekindle old ones despite the barriers of language, culture and social values and they learn what is truly important in life. As a result of their participation in the program, programs similar to Camp Good Days have since been started in Canada, Ireland, Poland, Austria, Germany, Israel, and Venezuela.

Campers Head to Watkins Glen!

Fri, 31 Dec 9999 23:59:59 EST

View More Images From This Event...

Camp Good Days and Special Times' campers and chaperones from the United States and countries around the world, went to Watkins Glen International on Wednesday, July 30, 2008 for the Annual Trackmasters, Inc. Kids' Day at the Glen.

The campers and chaperones were all participants in the Camp Good Days' Doing A World Of Good Program, which is for children with cancer from around the world. In addition to children from the United States, children with cancer from Mexico, Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Germany, Spain, and Turkey attended the Doing A World Of Good Program and were at the Trackmasters' Kids' Day at the Glen.

Camp Good Days arrived at Watkins Glen International and had the opportunity to take rides around the track with the many Trackmasters' drivers.Everyone had lunch together following the track rides and the group headed back to Camp Good Days where they were treated to a special concert by The Skycoasters, followed by a Fireworks Show at dark.

Junior Good Days!

Fri, 31 Dec 9999 23:59:59 EST

Camp Good Days and Special Times held their Rochester Regional Area Junior Good Days Program, for children ages 4-7, Monday, August 11, 2008 through Thursday, August 14, 2008. Junior Good Days is a day-camp program for those children who would qualify for any of Camp Good Days' residential camping programs, but are still too young to attend overnight camp.

More than 25 children were registered to participate in Junior Good Days.The campers arrived at either the Camp Good Days' Headquarters in Mendon, NY, or the Crime Victim's Resource Center, in downtown Rochester, NY, each morning at 9:00 AM. Each day they headed out for fun activities and returned to their location at 5:00 PM.

On Monday, August 11^th, the campers spent the morning at the Strong National Museum of Play and then had lunch at the China Buffet in Henrietta. And in the afternoon, the campers went to see a movie. On Tuesday, August 12^th, the campers had a tour of Pizzeria Uno in Victor, visited Lollypop Farm and concluded the day at Carmen's Putt Putt in Farmington. On Wednesday, August 13^th, the campers spent the morning at Seneca Park Zoo and the afternoon at Charlotte Beach. On Thursday, August 14^th, the campers concluded their fun-filled program by spending the day at Seabreeze Park.

So as not to place any additional financial burden on those families served, all of the programs and services provided by Camp Good Days are offered free of charge for the participants.This is only possible because of the generosity of so many individuals, organizations, and businesses, and the success of special fundraising events.

Peddle Up and Support Camp Good Days with Scotty's Ride

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 00:00:00 EST

Download Scotty's Ride Registration Form (PDF format)

What: Scotty's Ride is a bike ride to remember a special friend and camper, Scotty Toombs. If you have ever come in contact with Scotty, his infectious smile and energetic personality have surely left a mark on your heart. Please join us for the fun and memorable event.

When: Saturday, September 26th

8:30 Registration
9am Start
11:30am Lunch

Where: Keuka Lake; 2 Routes available

Family Friendly Route: from Camp Good Days Facility to Keuka Park and back (5 miles)

Avid Cyclist Route: from Camp Good Days Facility to Hammondsport Park and Back ( 27 miles)

Camp Good Days Honors Teddi Awards & Ring of Honor Recipients at Annual Holiday Party!

Sun, 07 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Those being inducted into the Camp Good Days' Ring of Honor, pictured (left to right): Annie Williams of Fairport; Gary Mervis, Chairman & Founder of Camp Good Days; Melinda Andrus of Pittsford; Eileen Hammond of Rochester; Linda and Mike Spino of South Wales, NY; Laura and Jeff Wormuth of Franklin, MA; and Joe Paglia of Rochester; at the Camp Good Days' Annual Holiday Party, held on Sunday, December 7, 2008.

Recipients of the 2008 Teddi Awards, who were able to attend the Camp Good Days' Annual Holiday Party on Sunday, December 7, 2008 are pictured with Gary Mervis (far left), Chairman & Founder of Camp Good Days.

View More Images From The 2008 Holiday Party

Mendon, NY ~ Camp Good Days and Special Times' Chairman & Founder, Gary Mervis, presented the recipients of the 2008 Teddi Awards as well as those who are being inducted into the Camp Good Days' Ring of Honor at their 29^th Annual Holiday Party, on Sunday, December 7, 2008. The Camp Good Days' Holiday Party is for all those campers and volunteers who participated in the various residential camping programs this past summer and are able to attend the party.

The Teddi Award is an honor that Camp Good Days bestows upon individuals from the community who, through their continued efforts, have gone above and beyond over the past year to help improve the quality of life for children and families whose lives have been touched by cancer and other life threatening challenges.

The following were recipients of the 2008 Teddi Awards:

Nick & Kathy Cretekos, Victor
Stacey & Chris Ruisi, West Henrietta
Bob August, Pittsford
John & Karen Sullivan, Honeoye Falls
Steve Mancini, Victor
St. Luke's Church, Branchport
Larry & Joyce Trippodo, Rochester
Eric Foster, Rochester
Jean Bartholomew, Rochester
Marc & Tricia Rosenthal, Williamsville
St. Philip's Church, Cheektowaga
Kenmore Volunteer Firemen, Kenmore
Strate Welding, Buffalo
Tiffany Sayers, Williamsville
Becca Hester, Rochester
Liz Wilson, Rochester

The Ring of Honor was established as part of Camp Good Days' 25^th Anniversary Celebration in 2004 and includes those who are selected for their outstanding dedication, commitment and support of the thousands of children and families Camp Good Days has served over the years. In addition to their award, inductee's names will be included in the permanent Ring of Honor Area, which is located at the Camp Good Days' Recreational Facility, in Branchport, NY, for all to see.

The following were selected for the Ring of Honor:

Bronx-Manhattan North Association of Realtors, Bronx
Eileen Hammond, Rochester
Judy Immoesote, Farmington
Mike & Linda Spino, South Wales, NY
Annie Williams, Fairport
Melinda Andrus, Pittsford
Joe Paglia, Rochester
Jeff & Laura Wormuth, Franklin, MA
Margaret "Muggs" Register Ellise (posthumously)

The Camp Good Days' Annual Holiday Party provides an opportunity for the campers and volunteers to come together and see old friends as well as new friends they made this past summer and rekindle those relationships. Often times, many of the children who attend Camp Good Days' programs may be the only child touched by cancer or another challenge in their school, neighborhood, church or synagogue and this is one of the only times throughout the year that they are able to be with the only other people in the world who truly understand – other children facing the same situations.

Buffalo Sabre Paul Gaustad - Plays For Kids!

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

See Paul Gaustad in a Street Hockey Game with the Campers!

When Camp Good Days approached Paul Gaustad to preside as the Honorary Chair at a Camp Good Days a fundraiser, he replied with a grin, "Let's see…when I played street hockey with the Camp kids, they beat me up pretty good, then when I baked cookies with them, they covered me in flour…I hope I can get through this event in one piece!!"

That enthusiasm and humor is what makes Paul Gaustad a perfect match for Camp Good Days!

Gaustad's interaction with the Camp Good Days organization has increased steadily since he first joined up with the group in 2007. His first introduction to the Camp children was during our Annual Street Hockey Game in August of 2007. And, while yes, the kids sort of beat him up…he had a great time playing with the kids and was sold on Camp's mission immediately. "It's inspiring and moving to see first hand how much Camp Good Days improves the quality of life for these kids," he said. " In the midst of their illness they are always laughing and having a great time!"

Since then, Paul has taken time out of his busy schedule to visit campers in the hospital, or if he were on the road, he would call some of our Camp Good Days kids who were having a rough time just to chat. During the 2007 holiday season he got us into trouble by starting a flour-fight while baking cookies (the kids got him good though!) in the Spring of 2007, he convinced the Sabres organization to honor a camper's memory during a Sabres Game, and in 2008 the Camp kids beat him again at Street Hockey!

It is because of all these reasons and so many more that we are proud to call Paul Gaustad a member of the Camp Good Days family. His compassion towards our campers is immeasurable. We are grateful to Paul for all his support and for helping to provide so many "good days and special times" to kids dealing with cancer in WNY.

Buffalo Sabres Coach Lindy Ruff Signed Photo To Benefit Camp Good Days

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

This photo depicts Buffalo Sabres Coach Lindy Ruff behind the bench during the AMP energy Winter Classic on Jan 1st 2008. This rare signed photograph is a limited edition of only 50 prints.

Lindy Ruff is arguably the greatest coach in Buffalo Sabres history leading his team to one Stanley Cup finals appearance as well as two Eastern Conference finals.

This item was signed in person on October 6th 2008 during a private signing at our store. Your item will come with a Certifcate of Authenticity from Dave and Adam's Card World, so buy with confidence!

All proceeds will go Camp Good Days and Special Times which provides programs and services to improve the quality of life for children and families whose lives have been touched by cancer and other life challenges.

Follow this link to order your's today for only $37.95!

Dave and Adam's Card World

COURAGE BOWL IV – More Than Just A Game!

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST

St. John Fisher College & University of Rochester

See The Complete Photo Gallery From Courage Bowl IV

Courage Bowl IV, the annual football game between the St. John Fisher College Cardinals and the University of Rochester Yellowjackets, dedicated to the children of Camp Good Days and Special Times, was played on Saturday, September 20, 2008 at 7:00 PM at Fauver Stadium on the University of Rochester River Campus. Once again this year, the Courage Bowl was broadcast LIVE on WROC TV-8, as well as on WYSL News1040AM and Sports Radio 1280AM WHTK.

As part of the Courage Bowl, Camp Good Days selected six campers, three per team, who have all been battling cancer, to serve as this year's Honorary Coaches. The Honorary Coaches were invited to a practice with the team during the week leading up to the game, where they met their fellow coaches and players. On game day, the three Honorary Coaches for the University of Rochester met their team at their campus and attended the pre-game meal. The three Honorary Coaches for St. John Fisher College met their team on campus, attended the pre-game meal and travel with the team to Fauver Stadium. All six of the Honorary Coaches were in the locker room with their teams; lead their teams on to the field at Fauver Stadium; and were at mid field for the coin toss. They spent the game on the sidelines with their fellow coaches.

In addition, Camp Good Days also selected four girls who have also been battling cancer to serve as Honorary Cheerleaders, two with each school's Cheerleading Squad. The Honorary Cheerleaders attended a practice during the week leading up to the game; met their squads prior to the game to prepare and cheered from the sidelines during the game.

Once again this year, the Courage Bowl Tailgate Party was held the night of the game, sponsored by Tompkins Insurance Agencies, Inc., The Bank of Castile, and AM&M Financial Services, for all of the campers from Camp Good Days who are not selected as Honorary Coaches or Cheerleaders this year. The Courage Bowl Tailgate Party included fun activities for the campers, dinner, and special seating for the game.

In the tradition of The Masters, it was determined that the previous game's winning school would host a luncheon the following year. The Second Annual Courage Bowl Luncheon, hosted by President, Donald Bain and St. John Fisher College was held on Thursday, September 18, 2008 at the Cleary Family Auditorium at St. John Fisher College at 11:30 AM.

"Over the past three years, the Courage Bowl has truly become more than just a game for everyone involved and has become so special to all of us at Camp Good Days, particularly the Honorary Coaches and Honorary Cheerleaders," says Mervis. "Children with cancer are generally not able to participate in competitive sports, due to their illness and as a result of their treatments, so for them to have the opportunity to be a real part of a college football team or cheerleading squad is so extraordinary for them and truly an once-in-a-lifetime experience that they will remember for all of their life." "In addition to providing this unique opportunity for the Honorary Coaches, the Courage Bowl also allows us to create more awareness about our programs and services as well as raise some of the necessary dollars to make those programs and services possible."

At the conclusion of the Courage Bowl, the Teddi Trophy, named in memory of Teddi Mervis, Gary Mervis' daughter and the inspiration behind Camp Good Days, was presented to St. John Fisher College, which will later be inscribed with the date of the game, final score of the game, names of the six Honorary Coaches and the names of one player from each team who displays exceptional leadership and sportsmanship.

For more information about the Courage Bowl, please contact Laura Osborn at Camp Good Days at 585-624-5555 or 800-785-2135, via email at losborn@campgooddays.orgor check out the Courage Bowl Video, produced by Rick Hager of Hager Productions, at www.campgooddays.org.

Campers Visit Buffalo Bills Training Camp

Mon, 04 Aug 2008 00:00:00 EST

Campers from Camp Good Days and Special Times were treated to a visit to the Buffalo Bills Training Camp which is held at St. John Fisher College in Rochester, NY.

Over thirty-five campers visited the event on August 4, 2008, and were escorted to a VIP viewing area where they spent time watching Bill's veterans and rookies vie for starting positions and practice for the 08 - 09 NFL season.

The Bills also had an interactive area where campers had the opportunity to pass and kick the football, and run through obstacle courses.

The culmination of the day was when players came over and signed autographs for the campers! Everyone left with an anticipation of an exciting football season.

Camp Good Days would like to thank the Buffalo Bills organization for making this day possible for our campers.

Young Adult Program - Special Times For All!

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST

See More Images In The Photo Gallery

In the summer of 2007, Camp Good Days held the first Young Adult Retreat, for those 18-29 dealing with cancer. Camp Good Days saw that there was a need for reaching this population as oftentimes they fall between the cracks. They are too young to be grouped with adult oncology participants and too old to be placed within the childhood cancer segment. With this in mind, Camp Good Days decided to offer a program specifically geared towards those young adults dealing with cancer, with activities and programs that would benefit them in terms of the issues and challenges they were facing. The goal of the Young Adult Program was to provide the participants an opportunity to be in a beautiful and safe environment, with the only people in the world who truly understand what they are going through…other young adults with cancer.

The Young Adult Retreat was an overnight camping experience that was held at Camp Good Days' Recreational Facility, located on the shores of Keuka Lake in Branchport, New York. A group of young adults from as far away as Minnesota, spent their time at Camp Good Days getting to know one another and participating in activities and discussions centered around issues pertinent to their age bracket, such as entering the workforce; health insurance; relationships and other social factors; college transitions; and the rights of advocates for cancer patients. They also had the opportunity to take part in a stress reduction workshop, as well as a camp fire and coffee house.

The inaugural Young Adult Retreat was an overwhelming success. "It's nice just to talk with people who have been through what you've been through," says one participant. Another participant says, "I'm 21 and I have cancer…this is definitely a great opportunity. It's just a way to get away and be normal for the weekend."

This past January, Camp Good Days invited some of these young adults to join younger campers on the Annual Florida Trip, during which Camp Good Days takes a group of campers to Central Florida to visit the many theme parks and attractions. During this trip, the group visited Daytona International Speedway; the ocean; Universal Studios; and Walt Disney World's Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom.

Over the weekend of June 13-15, 2008, Camp Good Days again offered the Young Adult Program, this year as a full weekend program. As with all of Camp Good Days' programs and services, there is no charge for the participants to attend the program. Camp Good Days does not charge participants to attend any of the programs or services, so as not to place any additional financial burden on those served. Funding for the many programs and services is provided through the generosity of so many individuals, businesses, and organizations, as well as successful special fundraising events held throughout the year.

This year's Young Adult Program included activities such as Arts & Crafts; Adventure Ropes Course and Indoor Climbing Wall; Coffee House; Boating & Aquatics; and Seminars and Workshops regarding topics of interest to the participants.

Previous Young Adult Program participants were asked to complete an online survey regarding their thoughts and suggestions for program frequency, themes, workshops, and guest speakers. 81.8% of survey respondents indicated they would like to have two residential camping retreats at Camp Good Days during the year. 100% of respondents were most interested in Adventure themed programs and Rest & Relaxation themed programs. Top selections for year-round activities and events included: Sporting Events; Concerts; Dinner Groups; and Practical Workshops.

"We are all so thrilled that the Young Adult Program was such a great success last year," says Mervis. "Our program staff worked hard to make this year's residential camping experience even better and incorporated many of the suggestions from our survey, to make this program as useful and beneficial as possible for the participants."

Anyone interested in obtaining more information about the Young Adult Program at Camp Good Days, or any of the various programs or services; learning about Volunteer Opportunities; or making a tax deductible donation, should contact the Camp Good Days' Headquarters at 585-624-5555 or 800-785-2135 or email

Camp Good Days’ Florida Fun Fest 2008!

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 00:00:00 EST

Gary & Wendy Mervis of Camp Good Days, presented John MonGoven of Orlando, with the Teddi Award, during the Camp Good Days' Florida Fun Fest trip. The Teddi Award is one of the highest honors bestowed by Camp Good Days to those who have gone above and beyond to help Camp Good Days fulfill their mission. John MonGoven has been a longtime friend and supporter of the children and families of Camp Good Days, and hosted the group on the Florida Fun Fest trip at the Hunters Creek Community for dinner and movie!

See More Images From Florida Fun Fest 2008!!

Mendon, NY ~ Twenty-five children, who have all attended programs at Camp Good Days and Special Times and ten young adults with cancer, returned on Tuesday, January 22, 2008 from Orlando, Florida, where they were for a very special trip with Camp Good Days.

The group has been in Orlando since Thursday, January 17^th and during their time in Orlando, the group was the special guests at the Hunters Creek Community, where they had dinner and watched a movie. On Friday, January 18, 2008, the group spent the day in Daytona Beach and at the Daytona International Speedway. The group spent Saturday, January 19, 2008 at Walt Disney World's Animal Kingdom; Sunday, January 20, 2008 at Universal Studios; and Monday, January 21, 2008 at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom.

This year's Florida Fun Fest is extra special, as this is the first time that a group of young adults with cancer, ages 18-27, will be joining the younger campers. The young adults will be helping to chaperone the younger campers, but will also be given the unique opportunity to spend some time with others who truly understand what they are going through and can relate to the issues and concerns of dealing with cancer as a young adult. Not only will they have the chance to spend time with others with whom they share a special bond, but they will be able to do so in a warm, sunny, and fun location.

The Young Adult Program was started at Camp Good Days during the summer of 2007 with a Young Adult Retreat which included a variety of activities focused on creating positive outlets for this special population and team-building activities. During the Young Adult Retreat, the participants were able to take part in social activities, such as a Coffee House, as well as hear from professionals regarding some of the issues they are facing, such as medical insurance; relationships; careers and workplace situations.

"Oftentimes, this population of young adults dealing with cancer can be overlooked by the variety of services provided in the community, as many of the services are geared towards young children or adults," said Gary Mervis, Chairman & Founder of Camp Good Days. "We saw that there was a need for services for this population and we began to serve these young adults through the overnight program this past summer and are working to expand it to include a variety of activities and experiences throughout the year with activities such as our Annual Florida Trip."

The Camp Good Days' Florida Trip has taken place for more than fifteen years and was originated when Rochester businessman, Wayne Meisenzahl, who was completing his own treatment for cancer, wanted to give children touched by cancer the opportunity to experience firsthand, the magic of Central Florida. The Annual Florida Trip has continued because of the generosity of Ms. Germaine K. Hess, one of Meisenzahl's clients, who left a bequest to Camp Good Days, through an estate, specifically to ensure that Camp Good Days will be able to continue providing the Annual Florida Trip.

In addition, the trip is made possible through the Teddi Project at Camp Good Days. The Teddi Project is supported through the annual Dance for Love, a 24-hour dance marathon at St. John Fisher College. The 26^th Annual Dance for Love is scheduled for February 8-9, 2008. The Sugarman Smiles Fund is also making a portion of this trip possible, particularly for the young adults with cancer. The Sugarman Smiles Fund was established at Camp Good Days by local businessman, Gary Sugarman, and is a wish-fulfillment program for those dealing with cancer, over age 18.

Camp Good Days and Special Times is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for children and families whose lives have been touched by cancer and other life threatening challenges. All of the programs and services provided by Camp Good Days, including the Annual Florida Trip, are offered free of charge for the participants. This is only possible through the generosity of so many individuals, businesses, and organizations, and the success of special fundraising events.

Please Also Visit These Sites

Mon, 03 Dec 2007 00:00:00 EST

New York State Senator Jim Alesi has been a long time supporter of the programs and the families that are served by Camp Good Days. www.SenatorAlesi.com

KOA Campgrounds have long since been sponsors of camps for children and adults with cancer and Camp Good Days and Special Times. www.koa.com

Each year the New York Academy Of Dance in Rochester, NY puts on a dance recital with their students that benefits Camp Good Days. www.nyadance.com