Community Picnic Sept 21 to Honor Philipstown’s Emergency Services
Chamber event welcomes all at Surprise Lake Camp, service workers and families enter free

All are welcome to a picnic honoring Philipstown emergency service workers Sunday September 21 from noon to 5 pm at Surprise Lake Camp in Cold Spring. Sponsored by the Cold Spring/Garrison Chamber of Commerce, the event will take place rain or shine at the camp, which is located on Lake Surprise Road, off of Fishkill road, in the North Highlands section of Cold Spring.

For a suggested donation of $5 (emergency service members and their families free), participants can enjoy a BBQ lunch and activities including swimming, boating, climbing, sports, games, and storytelling. Plus —Local emergency service crews from all area local, state and park police; and fire departments and rescue services will stage safety and rescue demonstrations, including a "smoky building" and jaws-of-life rescue, car-safety programs, trained-dog, and rollover demos, and free fingerprinting of children. In case of bad weather, events and activities will take place inside or under cover. The Surprise Lake Camp is hosting this Chamber of Commerce event, and all proceeds will benefit the Philipstown fund for a hook and ladder truck.

"It’s past time that we express our appreciation to these important neighbors," says Chamber President Jonathan Kruk, "and we’re glad that local officials will join us as we express our thanks to our emergency crews." Among the officials attending and participating in a brief ceremony at noon honoring the emergency workers: Rep. Sue Kelly, County Executive Bob Bondi, Town Supervisor William Mazzuca, and Town Board members Alfred Hosmer and Anthony Merante, as well as legislator Vinny Tamagna, a member of the Chamber of Commerce board. "But it’s not just about honor," says Kruk, "We welcome all those emergency service workers and their families – and we plan for the whole community to have a lot of fun, too." Given the busy schedules of area organizations and residents, the event will take place September 21 12- 5, rain or shine. "We have plenty of space at the camp for activities to move inside," according to camp director Jordan Dale, who is also on the Chamber board, "And we welcome all to come and enjoy this special community event."

No reservations are required for this Emergency Services Appreciation community picnic, but for details phone: 845-265-3200.