'Man Up' to be held Father's Day weekend

Thursday, June 7, 2012
Baker's Camp Bridge

BAINBRIDGE -- Father's Day will be stretched to a full weekend in Putnam County this year.

Man Up, a camping, fishing, father/son, man-to-man bonding event and fundraiser, will be held at the Baker's Camp Covered Bridge beginning Friday, June 15 after 3 p.m.

Ray Neier is hosting the free event as a fundraiser for Drew Christy, a 2006 South Putnam graduate who was involved in a horrific motor vehicle accident in 2008.

Christy is still recovering from the traumatic brain injury he suffered, and Neier is accepting a free-will donation to help the family.

"They're not lifelong friends," Neier said. "I just followed the situation and thought that maybe it's now my time to help them out."

Man Up will feature camping, canoeing, games, fellowship and a speech by John Crane, director of the Sagamore Leadership Initative.

Neier owns the property on both sides of the bridge, which is located on County Road 300 East, about 2 miles southeast of Bainbridge.

He is opening up the land for tents and campers, though reservations are required for the latter.

The bridge crosses Big Walnut Creek.

Guests are encouraged to bring a tent, lawn chairs, firewood, food for Friday night, drinks, a canoe or kayak and a fishing pole.

Christy and his father, Mark, are expected to fully participate.

On Saturday Man Up will provide a 9 a.m. breakfast and a 6 p.m. dinner, followed by an inspirational and challenging message from Crane.

All the donations will go to assist the Christy family with ongoing medical expenses.

RSVP by June 8 to Ray Neier.

He can be reached at 366-3066 or rayneier@gmail.com.

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