ALPINE TOWER

Standing 50-feet tall, this vertical climbing structure is set on poles that crisscross toward the sky! Participants, both beginner and advanced, will be challenged by the pole climbs, dangling logs, seesaw log, high woozy, and much more. It is a creative and safe way to be challenged both physically and mentally.

ARCHERY

Pick up a bow, launch an arrow, and the spirit of an archer may possess you. Attend the archery session to learn about this ancient art used for hunting, warring, and peaceful relaxation. We’ll talk about proper stance and form, eye dominance, aim, how to grip the bow, draw the string and how to use a consistent anchor point. We’ll also discuss how to select archery equipment to fit you and your needs.

ART AS AN INVESTMENT

Are you curious about the art world? Have you ever seen flashy headlines about auction records and asked yourself how paintings regularly sell for these large sums? Join us as we discuss the basics of the art market, the qualities of art as an investment, how art responds to certain market conditions and more. Learn about how art can simultaneously be a beautiful piece of history while its unique characteristic often makes it an ideal asset class. Catie Patton with Heather James Fine Art has been advising clients for 20 years. She has shared her expertise across a variety of art market landscapes and provided clients with an inside perspective and regular analysis both of the art market and financial markets at large and how those realms intersect and react to one another.

With galleries and consultancies across the globe, Heather James Fine Art is a leading international gallery. Offering works from artists like Monet, Warhol, O’Keeffe, Basquiat, Kahlo, as well as emerging artists. Heather James presents blue chip art from a cross-section of periods, movements, and genres including Post-War, Contemporary, Impressionist, Modern, American, Latin American, and Old Masters.

BEE KEEPING

Ever wondered what it takes to get started in keeping a colony of bees? Come and learn how a bee colony works. Join Seib’s Hoosier Honey as they detail their history with beekeeping. Hear why they got started with this unique hobby and leave with an understanding of how important bees are to our daily lives. Come ready to experience live bees. Seib’s Hoosier Honey is a small beekeeping operation that has bees at seven different apiaries around several different counties including Hamilton, Hendricks, Morgan, and Johnson.

BEYOND WEALTH: CRAFTING YOUR FINANCIAL LEGACY

In this thought-provoking session, Pete the Planner will explore the profound impact of financial legacy beyond mere wealth accumulation. Delving into the essence of legacy, we’ll examine how successful individuals can transcend material riches to leave a lasting imprint on future generations and society as a whole.

From the intricacies of estate planning to the transformative power of philanthropy, we will navigate the avenues through which your financial resources can shape the world long after you’re gone. But beyond the tangible assets lies a deeper inquiry: What values, principles, and ideals will define your legacy? How can you ensure that your wealth reflects not just financial success, but a legacy of integrity, compassion, and purpose?

Through engaging anecdotes, compelling case studies, and practical insights, we’ll uncover the secrets to crafting a meaningful financial legacy that extends far beyond bank accounts and property deeds. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur, a savvy investor, or a visionary leader, this keynote will inspire you to rethink your approach to wealth and leave a legacy that resonates for generations to come. Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the true essence of financial legacy and its profound impact on the world we leave behind.

BOURBON TASTING: WHAT TO KNOW AND WHY

The Bourbon Boom in now officially upon us! The world of whiskey, in particular bourbon, has seen a tremendous boost in popularity over the past several years. Whether you’re an avid whiskey drinker, new to the scene or interested in buying your first bottle, it can be very intimidating to figure out what you should and shouldn’t be trying! Take a journey with us as we sample through unique, hard to find options as well as bourbon you can find every day on the shelf, all on a quest to find the perfect bourbon for your palate. The Indiana Liquor Group will lay out the basics to bourbon, key terms to know, and how to properly taste and smell whiskey.

BOTOX

Ever wanted to try Botox? Melanie Kingsley, MD, is a fellowship-trained, board-certified dermatologist who focuses her practice on both medical and cosmetic dermatology, and she is coming to camp!

Dr. Kingsley places a strong emphasis on patient education and mapping a comprehensive treatment plan suitable for each individual patient. Dr. Kingsley specializes in injectables, such as botulinum toxins and fillers, and is an expert in laser procedures for wrinkles, skin tightening, scars, redness, blood vessels, brown spots, laser resurfacing and more.

BOXING

Ready to strap on a pair of boxing gloves and experience the “impact” of hitting the focus mitts while learning how the “Sweet Science” of boxing helps people with Parkinson’s? Join the team from Rock Steady Boxing in this interactive, empowering session. The mission of Rock Steady Boxing is to equip their affiliates and empower the coaches to improve the quality of life of people with Parkinson’s disease through a non-contact, boxing-based fitness curriculum. 

CANOEING

Explore a 110-acre lake in a canoe. Bradford Woods instructors will teach proper canoeing techniques, several paddling strokes and canoe safety. Once participants learn the basics, they will be able to practice them on Bradford Woods’ calm and relaxing lake.

CHARCUTERIE BOARDS

Join Molly Wilson, chef, and owner of Indianapolis-Hoosier based Sprig & Plate, for a fun and interactive charcuterie workshop! Learn pro tips and tricks to create your own beautiful charcuterie boards at home. Sip on a glass of wine while you get “hands on” and make your own unique charcuterie box to snack on or take home with you. We will raffle a custom-made charcuterie board for one lucky participant to take home.

CHEF BEN: MADELEINES

Ever wanted to know how to make the perfect madeleine cookies? This shell shaped cookie with a buttery cake like texture will be the topic is this session. This year Chef Ben is joined by Chef Youssef who will lead campers through creating these iconic French delicacies. 

Chef Benjamin Hardy graduated Summa Cum Laude from Le Cordon Bleu, International Culinary Academy with a degree in Pastry Arts. With over 20 years as a classically trained French pastry chef, Ben has shared his experiences throughout many facets of the hospitality industry in specialty chocolate shops, luxury hotels, high production facilities for local grocery stores, country clubs, and is also an instructor to future pastry chefs. 

Chef Youssef is a traveled French Pastry Chef with tenure in Paris, Casablanca, New York and now Indianapolis. He has perfected his art with Lauderée and Pierre Hermé and is now sharing his creativity in Indianapolis with J’adore, a concept that invites fellowship through hospitality with elevated food and contemporary pastry. 

CHEF BEX: FOOD SCIENCE – SPHERES & FOAM

Explore the wonders of food science and learn to make Bloody Mary spheres, margarita spheres, and truffle foam. 

Raised in Calabasas, Rebecca is a Private and Corporate Chef specializing in molecular gastronomy. Rebecca received her Bachelor of Science Degree, in Business Administration & Management, at the University of San Francisco. She went on to pursue her Post-Baccalaureate, in Science and Biochemistry, at UC Berkeley. She excelled at Organic Chemistry and Physics. Rebecca was Sous Chef to Chef Tiffany Jablonski and is currently the Head Chef and Co-Founder of the catering companies, My Private Chef Events and My Jewish Chef. Rebecca now lives in Indianapolis with her 6-year-old son, Remington.

CHEESE & WINE

Taste some of the world’s best cheeses with Max McCalman. Not only will you taste some of his favorite cheeses you will learn which wines pair best with them and why. Renowned as one of the cheese world’s living legends for his expertise, insight, and passion, Max McCalman is dedicated to helping others understand and enjoy the unique pleasures of artisanal cheeses.

Max McCalman became America’s first restaurant based Fromager at New York City’s Picholine Restaurant in 1995. The success of the program led to the creation of the Artisanal Bistro in 2001, then to the establishment of the online retailer in 2003 where Max served as its Maître Fromager, Director of Affinage and Dean of Curriculum.

McCalman is the author of four books on cheese, including: Mastering Cheese—winner of Gourmand Cookbook Awards’ Best Book on Cheese; Cheese, a Connoisseur’s Guide to the World’s Best—winner of a James Beard Award; The Cheese Plate and Max McCalman’s Swatchbook of Wine & Cheese Pairings. 

Max is Maître Fromager for The Wine Room in Delray Beach and Winter Park in Florida.

COFFEE TASTING: A LOOK INSIDE THE CUP

Coffee tasting with a twist! Our long-time coffee sponsor Peter Beering will offer a look into the cup at what it takes to be in the coffee business. This unique behind the scenes view will include a discussion about agricultural issues, supply chain challenges, menu, and recipe development. Campers will enjoy a unique caffeinated experience!

CRAPS 101

Craps is the most exciting game in any casino. The dice in the air, a cheering crowd with lots of colorful characters, and the best odds in the casino equal an unforgettable experience. Many people are intimidated or confused by this incredible game. It will be taught by local craps experts, campers Bob Laikin and Matt Burnett, who have years of experience and lots of stories! Learn how to approach a craps table with confidence and build a strategy to come home a winner. A practice craps table will be available to learn and practice this outstanding game. 

CUSTOM LIPSTICKS MADE FOR YOU

Treat your lips to a custom blended lipstick experience, designed by our color expert Mary Miller, from David and Mary. Let Mary design a unique shade of lipstick to compliment your skin tone and lifestyle. Whether it’s the perfect red, pink or nude, Mary will create a shade just for you. Finally, a lipstick you’ll love!

DUTCH OVEN COOKING

Dutch oven cooking is a fun way to socialize with people and make new friends. There’s just something special about good food that has a way of drawing people together. And it’s not just useful during camping trips. Aside from being a fun activity, Dutch oven cooking is a life skill that everyone can learn and benefit from. Our lives have become so fast-paced, we’ve forgotten or neglected to learn many skills that, 100 years ago, would have been second nature to us. How would many of us know how to cook for our families without electricity or propane? With Dutch oven cooking skills, you’ll have the confidence to cook a good hot meal for your family at any time regardless of the circumstances. We’ll be making a variety of delicious foods—even dessert—to share with anyone that wants to sample from our ovens. Join us! 

FACIAL

David Miller, Co-Owner/Esthetic Director of “David and Mary”—The Salon Experience in Fishers, Indiana, returns with his talented team of Estheticians, providing facials 

to soothe your skin and your senses. Leave your facial session with smooth, healthy-looking skin. You will feel the difference and friends will notice the added “glow!”

FACIAL / DERMAPLANING

David Miller, Co-Owner/Esthetic Director of “David and Mary”—The Salon Experience in Fishers, Indiana, returns with his talented team of Estheticians, providing facials 

to soothe your skin and your senses. Leave your facial session with smooth, healthy-looking skin. You will feel the difference and friends will notice the added “glow!”

For a more advanced exfoliating facial, consider a Dermaplaning Facial. Experience brighter, less blotchy skin…. all with no discomfort or downtime!

FINDING BALANCE: FINDING BALANCE TO CREATE AN INTEGRATED WHOLE LIFE

Do you struggle to find balance in your life? Are you constantly putting everyone and everything ahead of yourself? Do you feel like there isn’t enough time for those people and activities that are most important to you? If this resonates with you, join us for this interactive session to learn more about how your brain works, what a life inventory map can reveal, and how you can find ways to live a more energized and integrated whole life.

For us all to maximize growth and to find balance, we all need a basic understanding of how our brain works. What fuels it, what drains it, and how can we nourish it to reach our maximum potential as leaders, and as whole people who are focused intentionally on their well-being and the well-being of those around them – teammates, family members, and the community.  

This session will be led by Sheri L. Fella, Founder & CEO of Bloombase – a boutique executive leadership firm based in Bloomington. Sheri has been working with high-performing leaders for over 25 years. Her unique experience as a Kelley Business School faculty member, corporate executive, business owner, and a country girl from the southern hills of Santa Claus has informed her team’s work in high impact, transformational change in leaders’ lives as whole people. We all play multiple roles inside and outside of work, and all those spaces we are in, represent a profound opportunity for growth.

FLORAL ARRANGING

When hosting a celebration, creating the best tablescape for your entrance or dining table is key. Not only will you learn design ideas for unique table looks, but you will also learn tips on how to enhance floral décor for celebrations, as well as day-to-day pieces. Come learn décor tips from Gene Huddleson, owner of LGH Design Group, now known as Detail + Design.

Huddleson has created fascinating theme parties and lavish social events. He was chosen as a Vice Presidential Residence Holiday Designer in 1995 and 1996. Huddleson’s work has earned many local and international awards and has appeared in Martha Stewart Weddings magazine, the New York Times, and many local publications.

FLY FISHING

Through hands-on fly fishing instruction provided by local expert Jon Widboom, participants will be schooled in the magic of fly fishing. Widboom has been fly fishing around the world for more than 30 years, including Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America.

FORGING STEEL

Experience the ancient art of blacksmithing by harnessing the power of fire and force to bend steel to your will. This class will introduce you to the basics of forging and working with steel. Come away with anything from a railroad spike letter opener to a steak turner that all your friends at the cookout will envy. You will learn how to use the different parts of the hammer and anvil, general smithing vocabulary, rudimentary metallurgy. Have fun playing with fire and come away with a new skill and an item that will last for generations.

Jeremy Pugh has been smithing and working with metal for 30 years from apprentice to teacher, welder, artist, studio technician and more. He has been teaching for and maintaining the Indianapolis Art Center for the last 8 years. His classes range from Blacksmith Blade making and Metal Sculpture to Wood Working. 

GOLF

Erika Wicoff will work with you on your fundamentals and possibly provide a new perspective on your golf game. Bring your 7 iron and sand wedge or use one of ours. Simple adjustments to your address position and target perception can make a huge impact in your overall game.

Wicoff has been teaching for over 18 years after a successful playing career that includes winning three Big Ten Individual Championships, two US Women’s Amateur Medals and competing in five US Women’s Opens while playing on the LPGA tour for six years. An IU Athletic Hall of Fame and Indiana PGA Hall of Fame Inductee, her experience competing, and teaching will help you play better golf.

HEAVY MACHINERY

Have you always wanted to operate construction equipment? Test your skills on the Mickey’s Camp obstacle course! Each camper will operate a Caterpillar Excavator, Caterpillar Compact Track Loader, Kubota Loader, and a JLG Manlift. Representatives from MacAllister Machinery and Bowen Engineering, along with MacAllister Machinery Operator Trainers, Ridge Inman and Josh Farley, will be on-site to train each individual on the machines before operating. Don’t miss out on this once in a lifetime opportunity!

HISTORY OF FILM: INDIANA DOCUMENTARIES

Films From Flyover Country

Hey, we know we’re not Hollywood or New York. But a surprising number of great documentary films came from right here in Central Indiana. Documentaries are hot worldwide. Indianapolis hosts at least FIVE film festivals each year, but you may not realize how many films are homegrown. And it’s not a new phenomenon. One Indiana TV station won a Peabody Award for a documentary on race relations in 1969. Another won a national Emmy Award in 1981 for exposing a resurgence of the Ku Klux Klan. More recently, Ted Green has brought us compelling stories on a Holocaust survivor and a Pacers ABA legend. Karen Grau has opened up the nation’s juvenile justice system, bringing cameras where they were never allowed before. And the man many consider one of the greatest documentary directors of all time came to Indiana to make a landmark film. 

Kevin Finch, himself, a documentary director, will be your guide. His new documentary on Indiana jazz legend Wes Montgomery is airing on public TV stations across the country and on pbs.org. Kevin made the transition from newsroom to classroom, teaching journalism and documentary filmmaking at Washington and Lee University in Virginia. He has covered some of the biggest stories of our lifetime, managed TV newsrooms in Indianapolis, and has written documentaries for Discovery and TLC and directed films for American Public Television and others.  He produced coverage in Washington, DC on 9/11 and covered the first anniversary of the attacks in New York. Kevin also covered the Senate vote following President Clinton’s impeachment, a presidential inauguration, several political conventions and the bombing of Centennial Olympic Park during the Atlanta Olympics.

INTERIOR DESIGN

Get a jumpstart on your home wish list in a 1:1 session with a local professional designer.  

Lauren Ramsby, founder of FOUR STORIES Design Studio in downtown Indy will be on hand offering 30 MINUTE private home design consultations. Starting from scratch? She will help you define your design concept, floor plan, style, and mood. Have a vision for updating a room? She’ll deliver a second opinion with feedback, advice, and specific suggestions. Have an awkward room you can’t figure out? She’ll talk through the options and help you get going with the transformation. 

There’s a lot of invaluable insights you can gain in a half hour — especially when you share the topics you want to cover and some photos of the space(s) ahead of time. To maximize the 30 minutes, Lauren will reach out for photos and initial discussion topics two weeks prior to camp.

iPHONEOGRAPHY

There’s a saying that the best camera is the one you have with you. For many of us today, that camera is the iPhone. Award-winning photographer Rad Drew will show you how to make great photos using your iPhone. He will introduce you to techniques for making portraits, shooting beautiful panoramas, and capturing action shots. After you have the shot, then what?

Drew will demonstrate, using a few simple apps, how you can make your images sing! Although a photographer for many years, he did not acquire his first iPhone until 2010. Since then, his creative iPhone images have received numerous awards and have made their way into juried international competitions. Drew teaches mobile photography to individuals, corporations, and professional organizations and leads destination tours, which are great ways to learn while photographing beautiful areas of the world.

KRAV MAGA

No one wants to think about what would happen if they were caught in a life-threatening situation, but it’s important to be prepared. Are you ready to defend yourself and your loved ones? 

Come join Krav Maga Worldwide Indy in this introductory session on a technique that will help you be more aware, develop total-body fitness, and learn real-world self-defense skills. Unlike some other martial arts, there is no “sports” component to Krav Maga—it’s about keeping yourself safe in a real dangerous situation, not just in the gym. 

As a martial art, Krav Maga focuses on quick, efficient, and effective movements that anyone can learn. It’s simple and instinctive. With decades of cumulative experience and a long track record of success, their expert coaches will help you learn to live fearlessly knowing you can defend yourself and your family.

LASHES / BROWS

You will be able to pick between either a lashes or brows session. You will receive an email from Kari prior to camp asking which session you would prefer.

Lashes

Lash & Brow Design Co. is back for their 12th year. They will show you why so many women have chosen to make Lash Extensions part of their lifestyle. When you book your session with Lash & Brow Design Co., you will enjoy an hour and a half luxurious Eyelash Application with one of their Certified Lash Artists. They will customize a look to accentuate your natural beauty. Please come with a fresh, clean face (no makeup!), for best results we recommend not using waterproof mascara 24 hours before and after your application, avoid getting water directly on the eyelashes, and apply no makeup for 24 hours after your session.

Brows

The 80s are back, don’t expect Marty McFly to join you but do expect a 2024 version of a beautiful brow! Have you heard of brow lamination? It’s like a perm but way better! Brow lamination involves straightening and lifting the hairs using a chemical solution, which allows the hairs to have more flexibility to move them into your desired shape, therefore covering any gaps or stray areas. After your natural brow hairs are straightened, a fixing solution is applied to keep the hairs straight, as well as a tint if desired. The result is fuller-looking brows that stay in place for around six weeks when brushed into shape.

LUNAR GOLD RUSH: THE EMERGENCE OF A NEW FRONTIER

Astronaut Harrison Schmitt, the only professional geologist to walk on the Moon, returned from Apollo 17 in 1972 with his spacesuit covered in corrosive lunar dust, a hazard for astronauts. Yet, over time, Schmitt realized that hidden in this dust could be one of the greatest discoveries of modern times – a rare isotope called Helium-3 with the potential to revolutionize fusion energy due to its non-radioactive properties.

It’s now been calculated there are over a million metric tons of Helium-3 on the Moon, enough to power planet Earth for 1,000 years. And valued at $4 billion per ton, it’s the most valuable thing we have ever discovered in space.

There is a new Gold Rush coming: our Moon could become the Persian Gulf of the 21st century.

Join us as we uncover recent developments that could change the world.

MAH JONGG

Ever wondered how to play Mah Jongg? Need to know the basics or want some tips from seasoned players? This tile-based game was developed in the 19th century in China and has spread through the world in the 20th century.

Our session will be led by members of the Fishers Mah Jongg Center. The center was formed in 2015 by local players looking for a comfortable and flexible location to enjoy playing Mah Jongg. Some of the members have been playing for decades, but most are relatively new to the game. Players come from many different communities in central Indiana. The Center observes the National Mah Jongg League Rules.

MASSAGE

Whether you like sports, deep tissue or just a relaxation massage, our certified massage therapy staff will be on hand to soothe the sore muscles you may get during all

of the fun activities available at Mickey’s Camp. Never had a massage? This is the perfect opportunity to try one! All members of our professional staff are equipped to handle the first-time client or the massage veteran. Treat yourself!

NATURE HIKE — BIRD WATCHING

What makes a bird a bird? Enjoy an introduction to bird adaptations and bird identification as you investigate a variety of bird habitats at Bradford Woods. Common local birds will be identified by using field observation techniques and proper use of binoculars and field guides.

NATURE HIKE — TREE IDENTIFICATION

Are you “stumped” when it comes to identifying trees? Branch out and learn something new as we explore what makes ‘The Woods,’ the woods. Participants will “leaf” this session with the knowledge on how to properly identify various types of trees in South-Central Indiana.

NEGOTIATIONS

You want to win, right? But you also need win-win answers to problems where everybody around the table comes out ahead, right? It’s often not easy to get all parties on board to find the right balance – strengthening business relationships without sacrificing the bottom line, right? Not so! You can be more effective in finding viable solutions by using powerful “win-win” negotiation strategies and tactics. The ability to successfully negotiate “win-win” outcomes is one of the most highly prized skills in any business situation. Learn from Charlotte Westerhaus-Renfrow, Clinical Associate Professor of Management from the Kelley School of Business, Indiana University-Indianapolis how you can effectively negotiate “win-win” outcomes that create mutual benefits and strengthen relations for all parties involved.

NIL PRESENTATION

The Purdue Boilermakers had a historic 2024 with the men’s basketball team making their first national championship game appearance in 55 years. The landscape of collegiate athletics has changed drastically in the last couple of years. Notably, the two most significant changes have been NIL (Name, Image & Likeness) and the transfer portal. There are many misconceptions around NIL along with confusion as to what it is. Let’s talk about how it has impacted college athletics so far, how it functions across the country, and how the landscape could change in the years to come.

Dave Neff is the CEO of Boilermaker Alliance, Purdue University’s exclusive NIL collective empowering student-athletes to become champions in their sport and in their communities. Dave’s career spans the nonprofit and private sectors having held leadership roles at Pacers Sports & Entertainment, ExactTarget (Salesforce), EDGE Mentoring (Co-Founder & CEO) and Prolific.

PARACORD BRACELET MAKING

(AFTER DINNER ACTIVITY)

Learn to tie a piece of parachute cord into a “survival” bracelet. We’ll have lots of colors and a couple of knotting styles to teach you. Like Mad Max, it’s always handy to have a length of strong cording to tie something down, tie something up, or even treat injuries (slings, sutures, tourniquet). It can even repel insects when treated with our recipe for natural repellent. And besides, it makes a cool piece of jewelry! No need to sign up for this one—just join us after dinner in the Dining Hall.

PICKLEBALL

Jeremy Rosenstein and Sandy Schwarz will be at camp to teach the fastest growing sport in America, Pickleball! With a little fun and some great exercise, you will awaken your competitive spirit and bring out your athleticism. This sport creates great rallies and social fun!

Rosenstein, who is also a sports videographer, has been coaching a variety of sports including tennis and pickleball since 2009. Rosenstein has won a combined 30 medals in tournament play. Schwarz is an avid player, has conducted several tournaments and has won over 18 medals in tournament play.

POKER

Sharpen your poker skills with two new poker professionals this year at camp.  Leon and Amanda Wheeler are joining us at camp this year.

Leon Wheeler has journeyed from humble beginnings to become the Director of Poker Operations at Resorts World Las Vegas. His career in gaming began in 1991 at the Gold Coast, where he started as a dealer. Through dedication and skill, Leon quickly rose through the ranks, earning a reputation as an accomplished dealer by handling major final tables around the world.

Leon’s journey in the hospitality and gaming industry began even earlier, in 1986, when he started bussing tables at Westward Ho. His career has come full circle, as he now holds a leadership position on the very land that once housed the Westward Ho and Stardust.

Beyond his professional achievements, Leon is passionate about poker and golf. He is also a devoted father and husband, proud of his four successful adult children.

With nearly three decades of experience in the casino industry, Amanda Wheeler has built a distinguished career that began in 1995 dealing blackjack at the Gold Coast Casino in Las Vegas. By 1999, Amanda discovered a passion for poker, mastering the intricacies of the game and going on to deal many prestigious final tables for the World Poker Tour and European Poker Tour.

Throughout Amanda’s career, she has held various leadership roles, including pit boss, casino shift manager, and poker shift manager. Currently, Amada serves as Training and Tournament Manager at Resorts World Las Vegas®. 

Both Leon and Amanda will be on hand to teach our Poker Sessions and run our poker touranments.

POLITICS

Come talk politics with Lesley Weidenbener and fellow campers. She covered the Indiana Statehouse for more than 20 years before coming to the IBJ in 2015 where she is now the editor.

There will be two different sessions to pick from this year:

Politics: The Presidential Race

Presidential race and undecided voters. Almost every year, pundits say key races will come down to “undecided voters.” Who are these undecided voters? How many are there in the presidential race? And what determines how they’ll break when they go to the voting booth – if they go at all.

Politics in Indiana: 

Indiana has long been reliably Republican when it comes to presidential politics. But for many decades, Democrats had some success at the Statehouse. That’s no longer the case. What has changed? How big a role does redistricting play? And what does it mean that Democrats are now largely confined to the state’s urban areas?

RESTORATIVE TOUCH

Restorative Touch is a rejuvenating mind-body connection practice led by a Licensed Massage Therapist. You’ll remain clothed and experience gentle restorative yoga poses and targeted therapeutic massage while focusing on breathing and mindfulness. This self-care journey is your ticket to escape the everyday and find tranquility, leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalized.

RIFLE / PISTOL

The Shelby County Sports Shooting Club will help you explore the long and short of shooting sports. Beginning with the long guns, you’ll learn the parts and operation of rifles, the different calibers, and their uses, and have some fun knocking down steel targets. You’ll also explore and shoot some handguns (pistols), including revolvers and semi-automatic weapons.

SCULPTING

Learn the basics of sculpture methods and techniques in clay and create a small sculpture. Take the camp challenge to make a woodland creature. You may choose from a mouse, rabbit, squirrel, or turtle. You will have an opportunity at a minimal price to turn the clay into a bronze piece for your home.

Casey Eskridge is a graduate of Herron School of Art (undergraduate), and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (masters). Early in his career he worked with The Franklin Mint and McFarlane Toys creating collectible miniatures and action figures. He has created monumental public sculptures such as the Birth of Apollo sculpture for the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville, Tennessee.

SHATTERING THE GLASS

Author Jessica Gendron will be joining us at camp to talk about her book What it Takes to Shatter Glass – Embracing Your Power and Create the Future You Want in Your Career, Life and Relationships.

With the changing landscape of the workforce and the increasing number of women achieving leadership positions, it is essential to shift the conversation from past barriers to future possibilities. In this comprehensive guide, individuals are taken on a transformative journey that combines inspirational storytelling and actionable tools to equip women professionals with the necessary skills to advocate for themselves and those around them.

Jess Gendron is a leadership expert and culture strategist. As President & CEO of The Center for Leadership Excellence she has spent the last several years studying successful female leaders and workplace culture. As a female CEO, she encountered many barriers throughout her career, and she felt alone in her experiences. She now helps women strengthen their leadership skills so they can shatter glass ceilings and actively advises businesses on how to create inclusive and equitable workplaces. Jess is the host of a podcast highlighting the journeys of female leaders called Ladies Leading and has authored two books on building relationships.

SHOTGUN

The Shelby County Sports Shooting Club will teach you how to shoot a shotgun. You will learn that a shotgun throws a “charge” of pellets at a moving target, rather than a single bullet at a still target. Using a 20-gauge shotgun, you will learn the parts of the firearm and the ammo, as well as how to point and shoot, pattern, and how to hit that elusive flying clay target. Depending on how good your shot is, you may progress to official trap shooting for a little friendly competition.

SNEAKER ART BAR

Kicasso Sneaker Art Bar is a one-of-a-kind painting experience where campers can create a unique wearable masterpiece while socializing with other campers. The canvas for this session will be sneakers. Yeah, that’s right, canvas sneakers. You don’t have to be an artist to enjoy this session. They provide the shoes and all supplies needed. All you’ll need to bring is your creative side.

SOAP MAKING

Come join the Soapy Soap Company where campers will be able to mix/create their own soaps with the essential oils of their choice, as well as their choice of exfoliants. Campers will then sculp their soap into whatever shape or design they desire. Everyone will take home all their soap creations.

Soapy Soap Company was started by three guys who wanted to create a more natural, functional bar of soap, and couldn’t stop there! Now they produce a full line of body care products at their facility in Bloomington, IN, using only the highest-quality, meticulously researched plant-based ingredients. Before they even begin creating a soap, they demand quality from their raw materials, which include coconut oil, almond oil, palm oil, etc. They only use 100% high quality essential oils, which are purchased right here in Indiana.

STAND UP PADDLEBOARD

SUPINDY will provide the surf experience that is the fastest growing watersport in the world. SUP, short for Stand Up Paddleboard, is a way to enjoy the water, nature, and fitness all while having a surf experience. SUPINDY provides rentals, sales, and repairs throughout the state of Indiana.

SUSHI & SAKE

Join Chanse Kinnaman, Executive Sushi Chef from Monterey Coastal Cuisine for a sushi & sake workshop! Learn pro tips and techniques to rolling gorgeous sushi rolls at home while enjoying a flight of sake. Each participant will have the opportunity to roll their own sushi to snack on or take home. Additionally, you’ll learn about the fermentation and refining process and compare different varietals of sake with Zenon Oprysk, Monterey’s Sommelier. They will be raffling a $50 gift certificate for one lucky participant to visit Monterey!

TEQUILA TASTING

Take a journey into the heart of Mexico and learn the basics about how tequila is made from 100% blue weber agave. You will learn what makes tequila one of the most unique spirits in the world. From growing the plant, to the cooking of the agave, to distillation, and finally the aging process. You will have the opportunity to taste this wonderful spirit and ask any questions you may have. This activity will be informative and fun at the same time. Brought to you by Hiatus Tequila, go #onhiatus.

TERRARIUM MAKING

Abby’s Garden Parties began when owner, Abby Perry, stumbled into a floral shop while on vacation with her daughter. They found the experience of picking out a plant and a few accessories to be relaxing and wanted to find a fun and easy way to replicate their experience. Thus, the idea of the DIY Terrarium Bar event was born.

During the session, you will have the opportunity to build your own terrarium, allowing you to connect with nature while creating a beautiful piece of art to take home. You will be able to choose from a variety of plants and decorations, and Abby—a Master Gardener—will be on hand to guide you through the process of creating your own terrarium.

TOMAHAWK

Vikings, Celts, Algonquians, Rocky Mountain men and women—they all used this tool for war and peace—and fun! Tomahawks were often carried instead of swords because they were more useful and versatile. When it was time for a little friendly competition, a target was tacked to a nearby tree and the throwing axes would fly. Join us for some modern competition throwing tomahawks and even a few knives. You’ll be surprised how addictive this simple activity becomes.

TRAVEL AGENT TOP FIVE

Love to travel but always have questions about where to go and how to plan it? Abby Kastin, a specialist in luxury travel, crafting exceptional experiences for her clients, will be on hand to help campers with her Five Lists of Five. The lists will include topics such as the top 5 mistakes people make when planning a vacation, top 5 must pack items for a trip, top 5 trends in travel, top 5 girls trip ideas, top 5 destinations and then top it off with how a travel agent can help make the experience enjoyable and not stressful.

Kastin is based in New Jersey, and is affiliated with Smartflyer, a top agency in New York City. Her expertise spans various types of trips including beach vacations, cruises, European vacations, African Safaris, trips to Asia and everything in between. 

As part of Smartflyer, Kastin taps into top hotel preferred partner programs to secure exclusive amenities and VIP treatment for her clients. She has been recognized as a member of Smartflyer’s exclusive group of high-revenue advisors belonging to Club 2A in both 2022 and 2023, highlighting her dedication to delivering exceptional service.

US FOREIGN-POLICY SOCRATIC DISCUSSION

Do you enjoy discussing and debating geo-politics and policy? Dr. G. Patrick Lynch, a Senior Fellow at the Liberty Fund, a Carmel based educational foundation will lead a Socratic discussion based on several primary documents looking at the historical evolution of US foreign policy from the Founding to the end of the Cold War. Since its founding in 1960, Liberty Fund has hosted thousands of small conferences designed around a format of readings that serve as the basis for in-depth discussions of topics related to freedom and personal responsibility. As the war in Ukraine rages on, come join us for a substantive exploration of what exactly the role of the US has been in international affairs historically and how that has changed. Is this good for the US and the world? Is this what the Founders intended? Has the role of the US changed to necessitate a different approach? Participants will be asked to read approximately 25 pages of material in preparation for their participation.

WELDING

In this session, campers will weld metal together to create a functional product. An explanation of metalworking tools, techniques and safety will be followed by cutting metal with plasma, machining, preparing, and welding a special camp project. Camper Peter Beering has pulled together a team of professionals to help guide campers through this exciting session. Wine racks, tablet holders and dinosaurs are among the projects campers have made (and taken home).

WINE TASTING: MY FAVORITES

Everyone has a reason they purchase their favorite product; maybe it is a label, maybe it is a memory from an experience, maybe it is a trusted recommendation, maybe it is familiar.

People often ask Susan Sage to name her favorite wine.  She always responds, as she cannot name her favorite child, she cannot name one favorite wine.  There are so many for her!

This session will walk you through some of “my favorites”.  More often than not, it is about the people & history behind the wine verses the actual wine. She is a strong believer in “life is too short to drink mediocre wine”, so campers will taste some great wines from great people and have fun!  She hopes some of her favorites will become your favorites!  

Susan has been with RNDC Indiana, formerly National Wine & Spirits for over 30 years. Starting in the Fine Wine Division and the last 25 years, managing the over 50 portfolios, she represents some of the most prestigious wines from all over the world.

YOGA

There will be two sessions for you to pick from:

Yoga for Peace

Yoga for Peace is designed to help calm the nervous system. Class will focus on breathwork, relaxation and finding peace within. Standing and seated asanas will be practiced with a deep awareness on softening the body, breathing, and finding the middle in our practice and in life.

NOTE: This class is trauma sensitive but appropriate for anyone. 

Vinyasa Flow

Vinyasa means to flow with the breath. This class will build strength and stamina as you flow seamlessly through sun salutations fused with traditional asanas as you prepare the mind and body for a peak pose. Class will challenge your balance, core strength and of course your flexibility. All levels welcome!

ZIPLINE

At nearly 400 feet long, Bradford Woods’ zip line is specifically designed to provide universal access. All participants access the zip line via a ramp, and participants of all abilities can take flight. At 65 feet tall, this activity is a great way to experience Bradford Woods from new heights!