Married in a Jam

If you just got married, you're in a traffic jam, and you haven't had your first dance yet, what do you do?  If you're Jeff and Rebecca Payne of Centerville, Ohio, you get out of the car and dance on the highway.

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Now that's what you call 'Getting Hitched'! (I can't take credit for that.)

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/ohio-newlyweds-dance-traffic-jam-wedding-reception-article-1.2889732

Giving Tuesday

The Tuesday after Thanksgiving is known as Giving Tuesday because it's a day when people offer donations.  It's fueled by social media and collaboration and I can't think of a better organization to give to than...

I am slightly biased but I can assure you it's for a great cause!  If you feel compelled to donate, here is the link: http://www.jamesoncamp.org/donate-online/

THANK YOU!!

Cyber Monday AmazonSmile

If you take a trip to Amazon.com, be sure to support Jameson Camp with AmazonSmile.

https://smile.amazon.com/ch/35-1156756

0.5% of the price of your order will go to Jameson.  The camp would definitely appreciate it if you saved your big purchases for Amazon.  Go ahead and get that new computer.  And buy a 70" TV while you're at it.  Don't forget the movies also.  And you'll need a stereo system to make it sound great. Who am I kidding?  People don't need any extra incentive to shop.

Happy Cyber Monday!

Thankful for Brent

A beloved Jameson Camp family member is leaving the Hoosier State for the Land of 10,000 Lakes.  Outdoor Education (OE) Director Brent Cummins is moving to Minnesota with his wife, 2 children, and their dog, Rasta.  Brent leaves behind 5 years of experience at Jameson and many wonderful memories of staff and campers.

Jameson Camp has grown a lot since Brent started working in September 2011.  It’s gotten busier each year, so much so that this year, from mid-April until August, there was a group of kids or campers at Jameson every single day.  This reflects one of Brent’s proudest accomplishments as OE Director: growing the Outdoor Education program from serving less than 1,000 people a few years ago to over 8,000 people this year.  Executive Director Dan Shepley had nothing but praise for Brent. “He did such a great job for the camp,” Dan said.  “We were able to offer day camp because of his help in the summer.  And new partnerships were formed by him that enabled us to meet the growing demand for the program while keeping our costs manageable.”  There is no doubt that Brent did his part to ensure both youth and adults were able to achieve the Jameson Camp tagline: Get Outside, Grow Inside.

Of his many great qualities, perhaps the most recognizable is Brent’s calm demeanor.  Talking with him for even just a few minutes, you feel like you’re on a La-Z-Boy at a San Diego beach. Development Director Yvonne Matlock agrees.  “He’s always laid-back and easy-going,” she said. “I’ve never seen his feathers ruffled.”  It’s the type of personality that helped him excel as the OE Director and more importantly, as a father.  One of Yvonne’s first memories of Brent and his boys was when they were 2 and 4 years old.  “I’d been working here only a few weeks when they sketched a giant ‘I love you, Dad’ in the snow outside the Retreat Center,” she said.  “It’s refreshing to see what a great family he has and how he puts his family first always.”

His paternal instincts have played a vital role not only with his own family but with the Jameson Camp family as well.  After Yvonne was diagnosed with a pretty serious heart condition, she thought she was going to need a pacemaker.  One night after a fundraiser at camp, Brent showed up unexpectedly to help break down everything, giving her orders not to be doing certain things.  “It was nice that he cared,” Yvonne said.  “He’s someone I’d hope my son would be like in that regard.” Dan also appreciated Brent’s character, saying, “He always brought a great attitude, sense of humor and willingness to pitch in and help where it was needed.   We will all miss him.”

But perhaps the most disappointed member of camp isn’t actually a person.  Brad Higgins and his dog Chance have been Jameson Camp mainstays for years.  Now Chance must say goodbye to his canine crush, Rasta.  Often the 2 could be seen wagging their tails and gazing into each other’s eyes.  Then one day Chance noticed his girlfriend carrying bags and a plane ticket, so he put two and two together.  The overwhelming grief led him to Yvonne’s office and her endless supply of treats.  However, his Facebook relationship status says ‘It’s Complicated’ so he clearly is still feeling some mixed emotions about Rasta.

The feeling of staff admiration is mutual with Brent.  “It’s been great working with such honest, professional, and passionate people,” he said.  “I have learned more than one thing from each person and will truly miss their smiles and determination to serve the youth of Indiana.”

On December 5th, Brent will officially start his new job with Camp Fire Minnesota.  He will be in charge of all aspects of Camp Tanadoona and Camp Bluewater.  He’ll also start an Outdoor Education program from scratch.  He is excited for the future, but he will never forget his past with Jameson.  “I will miss the kids, staff, and the property.  This has been my family’s home for about 5 years and it will always have a special place in our hearts.”

If you would like to stay connected with the Cummins family and follow them on their journey, check out http://zanderandmccai.blogspot.com/

Happy Thanksgiving!

Kevin Johnson

kevin@jamesoncamp.org

Baby Barker is Beckoning

Recent developments in the Baby Barker case suggest that Olivia could be arriving soon.  In keeping with camp's child-friendly policy, let's just say there have been changes in the mother's lady-land area.  Stefy Boo has even suspected that the baby could be born this Thursday, which means she will come out looking like this...

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A Thanksgiving Baby!

We want you to be a "leg" up on the competition so we will keep you "abreast" of the situation...

The Start of a Wonderful Week

Thanksgiving Week is a special time of the year.  It has a little bit of everything: food, family, football, and Black Friday. Whatever you enjoy most, there's no denying one of the most popular items on the Turkey Day menu: stuffing.  Today is National Stuffing Day and it makes me wonder: why don't we eat it more often?  It's delicious!  

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So on this Monday before Thanksgiving, go STUFF IT!

(Work) Twin Sister

What are the odds that there would be another AmeriCorps VISTA Storyteller in Indianapolis?

Last week, Abby Rolland visited Jameson Camp.  She works for Second Helpings, a food rescue organization.  She writes for their blog: https://www.secondhelpings.org/news/blog/

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Thanks for stopping by, Abby...I'm sure your company is busy these last few days before Turkey Time!

Happy Friday, everyone!

Keeping up with Carlin

Because they knew I was in a deep pit of sadness, Yvonne and Erin did something yesterday to lift me up. Actually they did 3 somethings: they took me out to lunch, gave me a card, and gave me a Bumbling Puppy. He makes a noise every time you touch his hoo-hoo.

The best part of the puppy is his name.

Oh so close to CAITLIN!


I've actually learned a few things just since the beginning of this blog post.

1. 'Carlin' is french for Pug.
2. This dog is crazy:

Because of this, I decided to harness him and put him on a leash. I also gave him my glasses in the hopes that a sophisticated look will calm him down.  Carlin is my responsibility now and I must take care of him.  

Thank you, ladies, for this wonderful gift.  They always say the way to a man's heart is through a stuffed animal.  I feel alive again!

(Camp) Family Matters

Steve Urkel taught us that family matters.  Through the good times and bad, family will always be there.  For many children, their camp family also matters.  These are the friends and adults who make camp an enjoyable experience.  15-year-old Tyrek has been a member of the Jameson Camp family for 7 years.  While his life at camp has been a blessing, his life outside of it has seen many curses.  Tyrek’s story is an emotional roller-coaster filled with despair, uncertainty, but through it all, hope.

Tyrek as a toddler

The story begins with Tyrek’s mother, Niesha, who was diagnosed with diabetes at age 13.  It’s a disease she has dealt with her entire adult life and one that was a harbinger of health problems to come.  Fortunately it did not prevent Niesha from having 2 wonderful boys, Tyrek and his older brother, A’Dante. However, the family faced a crisis early on that tested its strength and resiliency.

In 2001 when Niesha was a single mom with 2 toddlers at home, the boys’ father broke into the house, stabbed her multiple times, and left her for dead. Fortunately she survived the traumatic incident.  Only 21 and an emotional wreck, Niesha had many paths to choose from.  She could have let it get the best of her, but giving up is simply not in Niesha’s nature.  She continued to provide for her children all the while trying to instill positive values in them. She wanted to make sure that despite the difficulties, her kids could still experience the joys of childhood.

A'Dante (left) & Tyrek

Enter Jameson Camp.  When Tyrek and A’Dante were 8 and 9, Niesha enrolled the boys in a 5-day session at camp.  “The reason I went with Jameson Camp was the affordability,” she said.  “It gave the kids at that time and at that age the chance to have a real camp experience.”  Because of the support of donors and the money received from facility rentals, Jameson is able to offer camp programs at a reduced rate to help low-income families.  In this instance, Niesha was able to give her boys an opportunity she never received.  “I wanted to be able to give them something that I didn’t have growing up as a child.”

While at camp, Tyrek met a camp counselor named Malcolm.  Together with Malcolm and the rest of the program staff, Tyrek gained valuable 21st Century skills such as interpersonal communication, teamwork, time management, and more.  “They really helped me concentrate more and be more respectful and responsible,” Tyrek shared.

Unfortunately, the following year, Niesha wasn’t able to sign the boys up to attend camp.  It wasn’t until about 3 or 4 years ago that Jameson Camp came into her focus…again.  “I was in search for another camp experience for them and stumbled upon Jameson again,” she said.  “That was awesome because their first day there, they met Malcolm and he remembered Tyrek from years ago.”  Though camp ‘siblings’ may leave for a while, they’ll always be a part of the family; big brother Malcolm proved just that.

After settling in to summer camp, Tyrek began to develop more skills like responsibility and respect. He enjoyed attending Jameson, but there were times when his home family couldn’t get him there. That’s when his camp family stepped in.  If Tyrek needed a ride, a Jameson program staff member would pick him up.  Every child deserves the opportunity to attend camp, and Jameson made sure Tyrek got the full experience.

With a few summer camps under his belt, Tyrek was ready for the next level at Jameson Camp: the Youth Leadership (YL) program.  The year-round program provides teens with a number of ways to learn about, practice, and reflect on what it means to be a leader.  They participate in monthly weekend leadership retreats, alternative spring breaks, college visits, community service projects and much more. Three levels are offered: ACE I (Advanced Camping Experience), ACE II, and CIT (Counselor-in-Training).  Tyrek applied for and was accepted in the ACE I program. Here, he served on teams, strengthened his decision-making skills, and began to learn the basics of being a leader.  All was going well for him and A’Dante until tragedy struck the family again.

Last year, Niesha was diagnosed with kidney failure.  At one point, the boys were faced with the real chance of losing their mother.  But like she always does, Niesha fought the good fight…and won. “Looking up and having the possibility of not being around for your kids, it makes you appreciate life so much more,” she said.  But they weren’t out of the woods yet.  With Niesha and her husband out of work and the medical bills adding up, the boys again risked missing out on camp.  This time an unknown Jameson ally stepped in.  “They had a donor who came through who was looking to pick up 4 kids,” she said. “And it was Heaven-sent because again we’re facing another trial, another tribulation, and we were still able to overcome that and move forward.  With each situation that has happened over these few years, Jameson has found a way to be involved in it.”

The issues at home began to take their toll on Tyrek, and it wasn’t long before they carried over into the classroom.  He began to act out in school, not violently, but verbally.  “It was all talk talk talk,” said Niesha.  “They had problems with his behavior.”  Tyrek had to go to court, pending expulsion. Once again, Malcolm stepped up as a big brother.  He stayed in contact with Tyrek, gave him positive advice, and even said he’d be checking in on him if he was allowed to return to school.  Along with Program Staff members Tim and Andrea, Malcolm helped Tyrek with his issues, and a change in attitude led Tyrek to being allowed back in school.  

A new year has brought about a new kid. “Since I learned my lesson, I’ve been the top student,” he said.  “Teachers noticed changes and they have me helping other students.  I’m getting attention for good stuff instead of bad things.”  He’s also begun to focus on a career path once he finishes school; nursing.  “I have a heart for people,” he said.  “I want to be a nurse.  I want to help everyone.”

Looking sharp!

Recently, Tyrek graduated from the ACE II program at camp.  Soon, he will join the CIT program and he anxiously awaits the new recruits he will work with at the October Follow-up.  “If you really think about it, we already have each other’s backs. If you really love Jameson Camp, we’re like one big family.”  Through all the turmoil and uncertainties with their family, Niesha knew all along where her sons’ second home would be: “I knew Jameson was where he needed to be.  At the end of the day, I made the decision and I know I made the right decision for him.”  Tyrek smiled. “You did, mom.”



If you would like to donate to Jameson to help campers just like Tyrek, please click here. If you've donated in the past, thank you for your support.

This is how I feel right now:

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Because Caitlin is gone, I feel like a little puppy in a basket.  Sad and lonely, yet still undeniably cute.

This will be my view for the next 9 months:

I'm sure the sadness will eventually pass but in the meantime I'll be stuffing my face with ice cream and watching chick flicks every night.

Barker Baby Bump UPDATE #3 - 11/14/2016 - Catcher with the Tie

Stefy BOO is getting BIG!

Everyone at Jameson has to be prepared if she goes into labor at camp. Kudos to Stephany for thinking of this brilliant idea: 

Next year at this time, sporting goods stores will be selling the first 'Baby-Catcher's-Mitt'.

Kentucky Caitlin

Today is Caitlin's last day at Jameson Camp.  She will be moving back to the green pastures of Kentucky. The grass is always greener in the bluegrass state.

Caitlin, best of luck to you and thank you for the laughs and useless facts. (She knows what I mean!)

In honor of the Kentucky kid, here is a terrific story about the tiny town of Rabbit Hash.

http://people.com/pets/kentucky-town-elects-pit-bull-mayor/

The biggest question I have is, "Will the dog attend city council meetings?"  If so, will the dog wear a suit and tie? (A pantsuit and tie in her case).  I assume that she will respond to issues by barking. "All in favor of Issue 1, bark once. Those not in favor, bark twice."  This is the city's fourth canine mayor, so they know how to run the show.

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WOOF! MORE PARKS! WOOF!

WOOF! GOODBYE, CAITLIN! WOOF!

Veterans Day

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Thank you to our Military Veterans who have served and protected us.  They have risked their lives for our freedom.  They are true heroes and we will always be grateful for their service to our great country.  

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THANK YOU!

If the hug wasn't enough...

Here are a few songs that might help you move on and accept reality...


"Changing of the Seasons" - Two Door Cinema Club

"Can't Hold Us Down" - Christina Aguilera

"All I Wanna Do" - Sheryl Crow

(This is how I feel right about now)..."Independent Woman, Pt. 1" - Destiny's Child

"Mama Knows Best" - Jessie J


And it all comes back to Frozen...

"LET IT GO...LET IT GOOOOOOOOOOOO!"

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In case you need a hug today...

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We're all in this together...

Unless you're trying to flee to Canada (The immigration website crashed last night so you might have to wait a while).

Electile Dysfunction

I think we can all agree that this election season has been nothing short of a nightmare.  But the pain and suffering will end today.  One of these faces will soon be running our country...

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Color the World Orange

Today is National Color the World Orange Day.  Without looking, can you guess what it represents?

It's to spread awareness of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.  If you knew that, you should go on Jeopardy.

Here are a few of my favorite orange things:

PUMPKINS

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ORANGES

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CARROTS

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ANDY DALTON'S HAIR

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BASKETBALLS

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FALL

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Fall is beautiful...have a great Orange Day!

Goodbye Daylight Savings

Daylight Savings Time will end at 2am on Sunday.  I've always wondered, if you're still awake and you watch the time at 1:59, will it change back to 1:00?  Or does 2:00 come and stay the same time for an hour?

Enjoy the extra hour of sleep but I know some people are not looking forward to the dark nights.  I thought it was a terrific film.  Heath Ledger was very good as The Joker.

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Cubs (It is what you think)

The Chicago Cubs have broken the curse!  Last night they won their first World Series since 1908.

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Congratulations to the Cubs and to a man who predicted all of this back in 1993.

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Well done, Mr. Lee.  Here is the story: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/michael-lee-yearbook-cubs-prediction_us_580f9b23e4b0a03911ef1c23

Cubs (It's not what you think)

The Chicago Cubs will play the Cleveland Indians in Game 7 of the World Series tonight but this post is about Grizzly Cubs.

What league are the Grizzly Cubs in?  The Montana Wildlife League.

Recently Montana Wildlife officials spotted 13 grizzly bears together on a private ranch near Dupuyer.  The community's population is 86 so the grizzly-bear:human ratio is not very good.

http://www.air1.com/news/2016/11/02/all-in-the-family-thirteen-grizzly-bears-gather-in-foothills.aspx

According to the experts, it seemed the group consisted of young and old females who knew each other.  They could have been daughters, mothers, and grandmothers.  Where were the male Grizzly bears?  Probably at home, watching the game.

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Hopefully the family reunion went well.  I'm sure it involved lots of chit-chatting and salmon.  Maybe one day the men will join.  But not tonight.  They have another game to watch.

She Gone (Soon)

Yesterday, Caitlin put in her 2-weeks notice.  She will be leaving for personal reasons and personally, I am very sad!  Caitlin and I met in August in Chicago for Americorps orientation.  We have shared the same office at Jameson Camp since then and we have shared many laughs.

Upon hearing the news, I went to the bathroom and bawled like a baby.  I was a complete wreck for the rest of the day.  This is how my face looked:

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Her last day is Monday the 14th.  Until then, I will enjoy our time together.  I will also probably stop wearing mascara to work!