News and Events
Monday, Aug 28, 2017
Sixth Annual Blue Water Bash Draws Large Turnout
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The 6th annual Blue Water Bash was a huge success with more than 250 local residents and supporters from surrounding states raising over $100,000 for the camp. Guests were treated to homemade root beer floats from sponsor 1919 Root Beer along with tours from 12 Boys Town Youth Ambassadors.
Those in attendance participated in live and silent auctions as well as a heads or tails game. Local Okoboji and Omaha businesses donated the 88 silent auction items ranging from autographed sports memorabilia, lake life staples, wine baskets, jewelry, a Templeton Rye barrel and even a large floating magic carpet perfect for summers on the lake. The live auction featured 11 sought after experiences which included; Thomas Rhett and Faith Hill & Tim McGraw concert tickets, a week stay on Nye Beach in Oregon, a private wine dinner for 10 at Paragon Dundee, a week in Mexico at the Grand Mayan Resort, Phoenix Open tickets with a stay at the luxurious Phoenician Resort, a family slumber party at the Henry Doorly Zoo, and the fan favorite catered brunch for 30 of your best friends at the Okoboji Classic Cars museum.
"The generous community of Okoboji has stepped up year after year to support the Blue Water Bash which has enabled Boys Town to renovate and preserve our camp for future generations of Boys Town youth and Family-Teachers to enjoy," Melissa Steffes Development Officer said. "We are so grateful to our sponsors and guests for their support of Boys Town and our Okoboji Camp."
The camp has received many necessary updates to its buildings and landscape in recent years thanks to the help of many generous donations from this event. Two years ago, Phase I renovations were completed to include the addition of two structures to house a camp director and a cook. Last year a handicap accessible restroom and quarters to house Family-Teachers and priests were completed. The final phase of construction was completed this year prior to the start of the summer season for campers to enjoy. The exterior of the building was bricked and shingled with a Cape Cod design, skylights and all new windows were added, a new open air game room was constructed complete with cool glass garage doors, and a coveted new basketball court with hoops were also installed.
Save the Date for the 7th annual Blue Water Bash on Saturday, July 28th, 2018!