New teen center opens for campers
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BIG BAY -- Thanks to one couple's generosity, the kids at Bay Cliff Health Camp have a new teen center to enjoy.
Tony and Cathy Ross were the guests of honor at the camp Tuesday afternoon for the dedication of the center, which was originally one of the barns on the property. The campers showed their hospitality by treating the Rosses and several other guests to lunch and even held their very own "Bay Cliff 500" to recognize Tony Ross, who has managed race car teams, including Nascar. The kids raced in souped-up wheelchairs around the cafeteria to much cheering by their peers.
The Rosses raised over one million dollars in funds for Bay Cliff, through racing circuits and golf tournaments.
"There was no question where we would go with any money that we could raise," said Tony Ross.
The teen center features comfortable furniture, game tables, and a wheelchair-accessible soda fountain for the kids to enjoy.
After the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new program center, the campers put on a musical tribute for the couple. The center itself is named Mike's Place, in honor of Michael Ross, the couple's son who is deceased. Though Michael did not attend the camp, he had disabilities of his own.
"I can tell you that all of our children, all of our campers here, they identify with Michael, and they understand," said Tim Bennett, the camp director.
The children went on to further show their appreciation for the efforts of the Rosses by hanging a sign and a plaque bearing the building's new name.
"Obviously, it's a very emotional day," Ross said. "It brings back memories of Mike and just seeing the looks on the kids' faces and knowing that they're going to have one more building to enjoy." He said that he and his wife intend on helping with more renovations around the camp.
Due to the couple's generosity, the center will now be available for events at Bay Cliff...and Michael's legacy will live on.
