2006 Conservation Officer's
"Karl E. Kelley Memorial
Youth Camp"
On Thursday, June 22nd, seven volunteers from the Indiana Bass Federation, and a couple of family members, showed up at Raccoon Reservoir to take 130 kids out for a few hours of fishing.
The kids were divided up into four different groups with approximately 32 kids in a group. While one group of kids were out fishing with the I.B.F. volunteers, the other groups were learning about jet skis and air boats, canoes and canoeing, and scuba diving. Then after a short while the groups would rotate so that everyone had a chance to be involved in each activity. With only seven I.B.F. volunteers averaging four kids per boat, you can imagine how exciting some of the fishing was with the all kids wanting to make their own cast, at the same time, to the same honey hole!
Around noon, everyone got a break in the activities and was treated to a nice lunch of burgers, hotdogs, chips, cookies, and some much needed cold drinks. The CO's, the camp counselors and CO family members all pitched in to do this for us.
I want to give a special thanks to the I.B.F. volunteers. Even though we were short handed, those folks that were there did an outstanding job. When you see any of them, tell them thanks for representing us all and showing that we do more than just run around the lake making noise.
I.B.F. Volunteers and family members (L to R): Mike Gibbs, Ed O'Conner, Steve Cox, Chris Schultz & son Chad, Russ Zoller, and Brad Williams, (Behind camera, Ken Gibbs)
I also want to thank the folks at Morton Country Store. They donated all the bait and ice that was used for the kids to catch fish and help keep them cool during the day by having some cold water available. Folks like this deserve every opportunity we can give when going out fishing for the day and need to stop somewhere for some supplies. They carry all types of fishing gear and bait, as well as hunting supplies and groceries. Stop and see them when going by and tell them thanks. They are located on SR 36 just east of Raccoon reservoir in Morton, IN.
Morton Country Store
SR 36
Morton, IN 46135
Linda & Steve Dalbey (765) 739-6566
Open 7 Days a Week
Although it got pretty hot during the day, it seemed everyone enjoyed their part in making this an exciting event and giving the kids something to remember.
Sincerely,
Ken Gibbs
I.B.F. Youth Director
