Many parents are already looking past the snow and even past the spring towards those long lazy, hazy days of summer. Several have already signed up their children for the ALASA Summer Day Camps this coming July and August. This year is promising to be the biggest and best ever for ALASA Academy, whose programs are now held at Beechwood State Park (aka Camp Beechwood).

    The grant ALASA received from Senator Nozzolio's office in 2009 was amended, allowing not only the purchase of much needed program equipment, but also expenditures for critical safety renovations to several buildings at Camp Beechwood. All funds have now been allocated, with $15,000 spent specifically to renovate four buildings and one pavilion at Camp Beechwood. A special advantage for Wayne County is that all improvements can be enjoyed by the entire community and visitors to Camp Beechwood this coming summer. Currently all renovations are under the direction of the Town of Sodus, the new managers of Camp Beechwood through a 10 year lease with the State. Progress can be seen throughout the 300+ acres of amazing eco-systems located at Camp Beechwood. ALASA continues to have non-exclusive use of the entire property for its programs: Children's Summer Day Camps in July and August, Customized Workshops from May to October, and a Fall Camping Weekend Fundraiser in September.

    Funding concerns and staffing continue to be the major opportunity areas for ALASA Academy, Inc., as it is with many small, not-for-profit organizations in this economy. One of ALASA's goals is to be available to all children and this is mainly supported by Sponsorships. Anyone can sponsor a child and make a difference in his or her life. More information is on the website www.ALASA-Academy.org The ALASA staff focuses on the excitement children bring and experience during their week-long adventures at Camp Beechwood. From kayaking, fishing, trailblazing, shore exploration, crafts and animals in nature to learning camping skills, making their own campfire dinner and just "being" in nature, everyone finds a favorite "thing" to enjoy at ALASA Summer Day Camps.

    And, it does not stop there. Adding an ALASA Geo-cache to the 3 already at Beechwood, adding a one night campout to each of the 3 weeks of Day Camps, working with specialists on raptor identification, building non-permanent blinds with natural materials, and continuing the never ending work with Trailworks on trail stewardship and community service projects to enhance Beechwood, are only a few of the possibilities being examined. Additional sponsors, volunteers, presenters, funding, perseverance, smiles, energy, staff, and individualized support are the components necessary for the presentation of another successful year for the children and families that come to ALASA for this unique, unforgettable experience. Come visit us this summer for a truly unique ALASA Academy Day Camp at Camp Beechwood!