North Star Camp for Boys







Thursday, April 30, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Nathan Margrett


My name is Nathan Margrett and I hail from Milwaukee, WI. I currently study child psychology and archaeology at the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse and am excited to be graduating this upcoming December. Between class, work and tutoring I spend a lot of my time running around, naps are definitely a live saver! One of my jobs this spring involves managing a park & rec soccer program in a neighboring town and I’ve had a blast working with all the players, coaches and parents.

In my down time I like to go on runs and hike the bluffs around campus, enjoying the awesome scenery that western Wisconsin offers. This will be my second summer at North Star and I am very excited to be returning! I look forward to teaching some awesome outdoor-related skills, including fire building, canoeing, and camp cooking.

More About Nathan

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you’d bring?
- A spool of fishing line, a comfortable pair of sandals, and a satellite phone to check up on my fantasy football team.

What is your favorite spot at camp?
 - Either the end of the fishing piers early in the morning or the top of the climbing tower on a sunny afternoon.



If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- In no particular order, I would love to have lunch with Stephen King to talk about all the brilliant books that he’s written and Dez Bryant to talk about the catch that he didn’t make.



What sports teams do you root for?
- I’m a born and raised Wisconsinite, cheering on the Packers and Badgers. Even the Brewers and Bucks get some hometown love…the Chicago-Milwaukee playoff series has been a fun one to watch this year!


What is your favorite special program at camp?
- Cruiser Days are always a blast. I have yet to find another time when it’s socially acceptable for me to run around dressed up as a golden snitch.


If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- I’d love to spend a year living in Asia and working with a school or orphanage. I think it would be really impactful and a great adventure!

​What’s your go-to pie at the Norske Nook?
- You can never go wrong with whatever fruit-related pie is fresh that day.

Best holiday gift that you’ve ever gotten?
- My younger sister was born on December 25th so I’m required to pick her; she says it’s a rule.

How has camp impacted you?
- It’s deepened my passion for working with youth and strangely enough it’s turned me into a consumer of massive amount of early morning coffee. Seems like a win win to me! 

2015 New Camper Pizza Party


New Camper Open House Pizza Party
Sunday, May 24, 2015
12:00pm - 1:30pm
Barnaby's Pizza
960 Skokie Boulevard, Northbrook, IL

Join us on Sunday, May 24 at Barnaby's Pizza in Northbrook for an opportunity to meet some of our junior staff, ask your burning questions and introduce your son to some of the other first time campers. Dan, Vickie and Andy will be at Barnaby's with some fine North Star staff members who will look to get your son psyched for his first summer at North Star

Our goal is to help each of our first-time campers to feel comfortable and get even more excited for camp. It is our hope that this allows each of our first-time campers to meet some staff and other first-time campers so that they can see some familiar faces when they arrive at the bus.

Please RSVP to Andy@NorthStarCamp.com or at 847-943-9559, and feel free to contact me if you have any other questions as well. We hope you'll stop in and have some pizza!

Monday, April 27, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Michael Becker


My name is Michael Becker. I'm 16 years old and I live outside of Nashville, Tennessee. I am a rising Senior at University School of Nashville. Recently I have been playing soccer at school, even though this is my first time playing in a while. 

I also went to the Science Olympiad State contest recently, and right now in school I'm preparing for some AP exams. I have also been keeping up with the NBA playoffs and have been watching a lot of Bulls basketball. This will be summer #7 for me at camp and I'll be teaching disc golf and athletics!

More about Michael

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- If I was stranded on an island, I would bring a basketball, a basketball hoop, and chocolate milk. 

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- My favorite spot at camp is on the terrace chairs in the shade while the wind blows off the lake towards the lodge. 

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- I would eat lunch with Bill Bradley and Abe Lincoln. 

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- I'm a big Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bears, and Illinois Fighting Illini fan. I also follow some Vanderbilt Sports as well. 

What is your favorite special program at camp?
- My favorite special program at camp is UN Day.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there? 
- If I could go anywhere in the world, I would go to Alaska and watch the Northern lights.

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook?
- My favorite is probably the Mint Chip pie.

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- My favorite holiday gift was this big Nerf basketball hoop that I have messed around on for years. 

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp has given me an opportunity to make great friends, to have fun, to become a more responsible and individual person, and to learn to enjoy camping and the outdoors much more than I did before camp.

Sunday, April 26, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Ned Shashoua


I'm Ned Shashoua and I'm from Boca Raton, FL. I'm a freshman at Northwestern University studying pre-med, so lots of biology and chemistry, but I've also been taking psychology and spanish classes. I joined the fraternity of Zeta Beta Tau, of which Andy was a former president and Jacob Sherman is a current brother.

Lately I've been playing lots of pickup basketball and eager to fill up the stat sheet in intramural softball. More than anything I am excited for an awesome summer, should be one for the books. This will be my tenth summer at camp and I'll be teaching tennis and waterskiing

More about Ned

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- I would bring a jacuzzi, a jet ski, and a waffle maker (batter included)

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- Council Ring, no doubt.

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- Jimmi Hendrix and Meryl Streep

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- Cubs and Bears cause Dad's got Chicago roots. Jumped on the Heat bandwagon when Lebron came but I'm ready to jump off after this season.

What is your favorite special program at camp?
- Dodgeball Extravaganza

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- Maldives, go scuba diving

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook?
- Peach

 Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- A guitar

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp's had a massive impact on my life. I'm goin' on 10 summers and have built relationships with some really great people, with a lot of unforgettable experiences along the way. Even as a staff member, I think I learn something new about myself every summer, and I definitely think that camp has instilled positive values in me that I would lack without it. I could never give back to camp as much as it has given to me, but I'm very grateful and extremely excited that I have the opportunity to spend at least one more summer in the Northwoods. Lookin' forward to another awesome summer!

Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Max Sinton


Hi everyone my name is Max Sinton this will be my 9th year back at camp, I am from Deerfield, Illinois and I am currently a Senior at Deerfield High School. I play lacrosse for my school which I love to do it is my favorite sport, I am also a part of the schools DECA club which is a business marketing club.

In the fall I'll be a freshman at the University of Kansas. I love to play sports of all kinds and have fun whenever it is possible. At camp I will be instructing Disc Golf and Land Sports.

More about Max

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring
-I would bring a fishing pole, a lacrosse stick, and a funbug for whenever I get too bored and decide to go home.

Favorite spot at camp
-The council ring.

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be
-Mike Bibby and Scott Podsednik

 Favorite Sports Teams:
- The Chicago Bulls, Bears, and Blackhawks. The University of Kansas Jayhawks, and the Swansea City football club!

Favorite special program at camp
- It's a tie, glens game or NSZ.

If you could travel in the world, where would you go and what would you do there
- I would go hit up some Penguins in Antarctica

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook
- I would butter finger although it's a tad rich.

Best holiday gift that you've gotten
- The gift of life was a good one!

How has camp impacted you
- Camp has impacted me in many different ways. Camp taught me to take on new responsibilities and roles that I never thought I would have to do. Camp got me to try new things that have turned into some of my favorite activities to do today. But one of the best things camp has done was create all of the friendships and memories that I have that will last forever. 

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Zack Shapiro


Hey all! My name is Zack Shapiro and I will be a junior counselor for the second session of camp! I am currently a junior at Francis W. Parker. Right now I am spending most of my time studying so that I can start applying for college next year. I am also preparing to take the ACTs again in Early June.

Outside of school, I am at school of rock. I will be playing guitar in a show through them in May, which will consist of all 70s and 80s soft rock (Hall and Oates, Steely Dan, Eagles, etc.). I hope this helps! This will be my 8th summer here at North Star and I am so excited to be working here. I generally teach riflery, rock climbing, guitar, and sometimes fishing.

More about Zach

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- My Fishing Pole, My acoustic guitar, and a comfy chair

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- My favorite spot is definitely the council ring!

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- John Frusciante of the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Quentin Tarantino.

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- The Chicago Black Hawks!

What is your favorite special program at camp?
- Espionage!

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- I would love to go fishing in Australia!

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook?
- Always the Reeses Peanut Butter Cup pie!

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- My Taylor acoustic guitar for Chanukah.

How has camp impacted you?
- I feel as though camp has made me a much more patient person. I have also become a much more empathetic human being as I am able to understand what people are feeling. Finally, camp has given me the ability to sleep comfortably on any surface!

Staff Spotlight - Joe Christian


My name is Joe, I'm from Verona, Wisconsin.  I go to school at UW - La Crosse where I am a Bio major.  My frequent activities on campus are climbing, intramural floor hockey, hanging out with friends, sleeping and Army ROTC. 

My favorite hobby is reading comics. I played lots of sports growing up and ended playing lots of lacrosse in high school. This is my second year at North Star.  I enjoy teaching riflery, mountain biking and waterskiing.

More about Joe

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- A hammock, a good book and sunglasses

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- Swim point

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
Neil Patrick Harris and Ethan Levy

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- Green Bay Packers

What is your favorite special program at camp?
- The olympic archery shoot and teaching slalom skiing

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- Nepal to go backpacking

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook?
- Reese Peanut Buttercup

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- My first rifle

How has camp impacted you?
- It has made me more patient and understanding with others, has broadened my perspective and has made me more chirper in the morning.


Sunday, April 19, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Ethan Rane


I am Ethan Rane, I live in Buffalo Grove Illinois. I am currently a junior at Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire. Between schoolwork, intramurals including Ultimate Frisbee  and Volleyball as well as some clubs I have had a busy year and am excited to start looking at colleges.

I can't wait to come back to camp for my seventh year and second as a counselor. I look forward to teaching archery waterskiing and athletics.

More about Ethan
 
If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- I would bring a fishing pole, a radio and a lighter.

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- My favorite spot is the archery range.

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- I would eat with Robert Downey Jr and James K. Polk

What are the sports team(s) that you root for?
- I root for the Sox Bulls Hawks and Bears.

What is your favorite special program at camp?
- My favorite special program is camper counselor day.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- I would go to the base camp of Everest.

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook?
- Strawberry Sour Cream

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- A trampoline

How has camp impacted you?
- I've become a much more responsible person due to camp. Camp has taught me how to take care of myself and help those around me. It has also made me appreciate nature. 
 

Staff Spotlight - Max Goldberg


Max Goldberg returns to North Star as a CIT.  He is a sophomore at Westside High School in Omaha, Nebraska where he is involved in choir, show choir, the student government and an engineering club. He is also active in Boy Scouts. He spends a lot of time going on camp outs as he progresses towards Eagle Scout.

Max is also very involved at his temple. He's a madrich, or assistant teacher, helping teach elementary Hebrew to kids. This is his eighth summer at camp and Max will be instructing many water sports and climbing. Max is excited to come back to camp this summer!

More about Max

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- Refrigerator, power for the refrigerator, chocolate almond milk.

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- The fun bug swing used to be my favorite spot. However, the top of the climbing wall is still there.

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- Steve Jobs, Walt Disney

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- Creighton Bluejays Basketball and Husker football! GO BIG RED!!

What is your favorite special program at camp?
- Predator vs. Prey

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- I would love to go to Italy because of all of the rich history that is there.

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook?
- Banana Cream

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- A nice new pair of SmartWool socks.

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp has had a huge influence on my life. The environment at camp just lets me be myself. North Star has provided me with many friends, and amazing memories. Camp has given me skills, not just in sports and activities, but in communication and leadership. Every year I can't wait to go back because I love the experience.

Saturday, April 18, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Mike Storms


North Star is lucky to have Mike Storms back at camp once again this summer. This will be his 22nd summer as our resident tennis pro. Each year his private lessons are in high demand, and this year, when we opened up sign-ups, we had a waiting list after six minutes due to the loyal following that Mike has built up. His private tennis lessons are much more than a skill development session, they're life lessons and you'll never walk by one of his lessons and not see a guy having a great day.

Of course Mike is much more than our tennis pro. He keeps camp happy with his regular batches of popcorn (this year he branched off and made kettle corn along with his traditional popcorn). Non-camp residents of Spider Lake are serenaded on a regular basis as Mike plays his flugelhorn on Leb and Sue's dock. During the rest of the year, Mike and his wife Kathy make their home in the Twin Cities where he teaches private music lessons

More about Mike

 If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
 -  I have been on an island all by myself, and am returning this year. I'll bring
my wife, my flugelhorn and a golf club.

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- Favorite spots at camp are many; choosing one is tough..I'll go with the council ring as it
is where we gather as a community, but once I go through the totem poles it's all good!

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
-  Well, I've read a lot of both of these guys, and I'd enjoy learning as much as possible
from these two guys:  Albert Einstein and Deepak Chopra.

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- I don't really follow pro or college sports, so I can honestly say all the teams/countries/tribes at camp!

What is your favorite special program at camp? 
-  I'll go with our Friday Friendship service; it's at the core of everything.
 
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
-  I've been around the world a little.  I'd go somewhere near mountains and oceans and invite friends forhiking picnics to all the best views.

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook?
- This one is easy:  the chocolate peanut butter combo is my fav!

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- Well, I don't do gifts in the material way--haven't for years. So this clearly leads to the gift of loving
friendship.
 
How has camp impacted you? 
- Camp gives me a place on Earth to get as close as possible to the way things should be: Happy, safe, outdoors, friends all around and stars at night.  So, camp's impact, over 20 years, has been having this happy place to look forward to, year after year!
Mike and his wife, Kathy


Staff Spotlight - Keith Helling


Keith Helling joins us for his first summer at camp. A native of Montrose, IA, he went to the University of Iowa for his undergraduate degree in Health and Human Physiology. Keith is currently at Western Illinois University getting his masters degree in Kinesiology.

Keith has done quite a bit of coaching, both at the middle school and high school level. At WIU he's taught weight training, stress management and fitness courses. He's also done quite a bit of camping and travel across the US with family members and he's hoping to make it to Australia one of these days. We're excited to have Keith at camp as a climbing and fitness training instructor.

More about Keith

How did you learn about North Star and why did you apply?
- I learned about North Star when I went to the WIU summer camp fair. After talking to a number of different camp representatives I really liked the opportunities North Star offered. I thought it would be my best fit.

What is your dream job?
- I have two dream jobs. One of my dream jobs is to coach at the USA Olympic Weightlifting Center. My other dream job is to be a science teacher and coach football as well as track and field.

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- Stan Lee and Bruce Wayne. The cool thing about Bruce Wayne is that he’d probably pay for lunch.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- I would go to Lake Sebu Seven Falls in South Cotabato of the Philippines and ride the zipline.

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- Hammock to relax, a solar powered chain saw to cut down trees, and a satellite phone to order pizza.
What sports team(s) that you root for?
- The Iowa Hawkeyes of course ;), and the Green Bay Packers. GO PACK GO!

What noteworthy/random/menial jobs have you held?
- Working on my great uncle’s farm when I was 11 years old because it was my first job. 

What did you do last summer?
- I stayed in Macomb, Illinois to go to school.

What, if any previous camp/outdoor experiences have you had?
- My whole life I’ve tent camped countless of times with my family and friends. I’ve gone on two three day camping canoe trips. In the summer of 2016 my best friend Justin and I will be bicycle riding/camping  across the US. 


Thursday, April 16, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Ari Weil


Its the Big Ten for counselor Ari Weil! Affectionately known as Adubs, Ari is a native of Denver, Colorado. He's now a first-year student at Pomona College studying international relations. At Pomona, he's a mechanic at the Pomona Green Bike Shop, where he helps service students' bikes for free and raffles off free loaner bikes for the semester.

Ari is also playing ultimate frisbee on the Claremont B Team. After school ends, Ari will be traveling to Israel with two of best friends from high school, and then visiting some family there. At camp, Ari teaches biking, ultimate frisbee, and riflery.

More about Ari

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
-A good book, some snacks, and a comfortable chair

What is your favorite spot at camp?
-I love biking all the way down to the end of the ridge, at the channel to Clear Lake

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
-Karl Von Clausewitz and George C Marshall

What sports team(s) that you root for?
-The Colorado Rockies, Denver Broncos, and the Pomona-Pitzer Sagehens

What is your favorite special program at camp?
-I like seeing the whole camp come together and have fun on UN Day!

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
-I'm really excited for my trip to Israel next month. My great uncle is 95, and I haven't seen him in a few years so I'm really looking forward to that!

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook?
-I'm always torn between Butterfinger and Chocolate Peanut Butter

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
-A lego set of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp has impacted me in more ways than I can say. Camp taught me the importance of being yourself and of creating a safe and fun environment where any kid can be themselves. 


Wednesday, April 15, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Ike Nierman


My Name is Isaac Nierman but everyone calls me Ike. I hail from Wilmette, Illinois and am apart of the track team at New Trier. My events are High jump, Pole vault, and sometimes Discus. In my free time I like to hang out with friends and play basketball.

This will be my second year on staff at camp and my 9th in total. I'm super excited to continue instructing Biking and land sports at camp, and I'm even more excited to see all the people I get to spend my time with over the summer, while meeting some new ones!

More about Ike

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- A snorkel, as much watermelon as a man can carry, and some tunes to pass the time.

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- My favorite spot at camp is definitely the lakefront! So many things to do, and a great view!

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
-  Justin Timberlake & John Lennon

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- I'm a die hard Bulls fan, but I root for all the hometown teams.

What is your favorite special program at camp?
- Espionage Espionage Ooh Ah!

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- I would definitely go to Africa, there's so much there that you can't see anywhere else!

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook?
- Butterfinger all the way

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- That's a tough one! Probably a GoPro

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp has really impacted me as a person. It taught me that you should always go at life with a smile on your face, and that when times are down, you can look to those around you for help. And of course it taught me that I always have the most fun!



Monday, April 13, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Fue Yang


Fue Yang comes to North Star for his first summer. From Holman, Wisconsin, Fue was born in Massachusetts and as a child his family moved to Holman, which is just north of La Crosse, WI. Fue is one of six siblings. Growing up, wrestling became a big part of his life. He wrestled throughout high school and after graduation he continued to help out with the team.

Fue is a student at the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, where he's studying communication studies and advocacy.  He's very active on campus. He's the president of the Sigma Tau fraternity. He also worked at Chileda, a school for children with developmental disabilities and challenging behaviors. He's a big outdoors guy, so camp will be a great fit for Fue. We're excited to have him at North Star, instructing climbing and tennis.

More about Fue

How did you learn about North Star and why did you apply?
- I learned about North Star Camp when I was forwarded an email from the previous president of my Fraternity. The reason why I joined was because, I have been looking for a summer camp job without any religious affiliations in the past couple of years. I really enjoy being given the opportunity to help kids grow and inspire them towards the right directions. Right after reading the email, I felt that this was the opportunity i was looking for.

What is your dream job
- I don't really know if I have a set dream job, but I do know that I am working towards the Peace Corps right out of college. I look forward to working for a Non-profit someday.

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- Gandhi and John Krasinski

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
-  I would travel to Mount Roraima in South America and climb it.

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
-  A knife, a pot, and a blanket

What sports team(s) that you root for?
-Green Bay Packers

What noteworthy/random/menial jobs have you held?
- I was a Program Director's Assistant as Chileda institute. A school for students with disabilities and and severe behavioral issues.

What did you do last summer?
- Last summer, I work one full time job (Chileda), part-time at Fedex, and two other jobs from home. I also did a lot of rock climbing and canoeing.

What, if any previous camp/outdoor experiences have you had?
- I love camping and being in the outdoors. Especially for rock climbing and canoeing. I enjoy casual hikes and bonfires when I get the chance to.




Sunday, April 12, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Ethan Handler


Hi everyone! My name is Ethan Handler and I am from Northbrook, Illinois. I am currently a senior at Glenbrook North High School. I am on the varsity tennis team, math team, and student government. I am also an avid baker and love dogs (my goldendoodle’s name is Dash).

Next fall I will be attending the University of Virginia, where I will be studying biomedical engineering. I am so excited to be back at North Star for my 8th summer! At camp I instruct climbing and tennis.

More about Ethan

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you’d bring?
- A compass, a flashlight, and Dash (my dog)

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- The top of the climbing wall. Up there you can see all of North Star laid out in front of you. In the late afternoon or early evening, you can see the sun setting on the lake.

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- Thomas Jefferson and Tina Fey

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- The St. Louis Cardinals!

What is your favorite special program at camp?
- Wacky One-Days

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- I would travel to Barcelona, Spain. I would relax on the beach, play tennis on clay courts, and eat tons of delicious Spanish food.

What’s your go-to-pie at the Norske Nook?
- Pecan Fudge, hands down

Best holiday gift that you’ve ever gotten?
- A really big, comfy, red robe that I wear every morning

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp has helped me develop friendships that will last a lifetime, pursue passions I didn’t know I had, and create amazing memories. Most importantly, though, camp has taught me how to become a better person and how to be myself.



Thursday, April 9, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Chad Prater


Chad Prater returns to North Star for his third summer. He graduated last May from Winona State University, where we first met Chad there on one of our staff recruitment trips. He was actually going to meet with another camp that wanted to hire him to be a tennis instructor, and when Dan overheard that Chad was also a certified swim instructor (WSI), he made sure to pull Chad over for a quick conversation. We were lucky that Chad choose to join the North Star staff!

Originally from Edgerton, WI, Chad graduated with a degree in Education. He's just about to finish his first year teaching math at the Twin Cities German Immersion School in St. Paul Minnesota. At camp you can find Chad teaching swimming and instructing tennis.

More about Chad

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- A German shepherd, a knife, and a pillow

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- Swim Point

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- Any Wisconsin team and any team that Kevin Durant is on.

What is your favorite special program at camp?
- Glenn's game.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- I would travel to Europe and visit all the War memorials and sites.

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook?
- Anything with peanut butter in it.

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- Probably one of my tennis racquets.

How has camp impacted you?​
- Camp has impacted me in so many ways it is hard to put it into words. I have met so many great people that have changed me in so many positive ways. I have had so many great experiences that I will never forget. North Star has given me a home away from home with a family that supports me.

Chad at the 4th of July Social w/ a Grauer photobomb

Wednesday, April 8, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Brody Poss


Brody Poss is another of our first year staff members from Wisconsin. Originally from Appleton, WI, Brody is currently a freshman at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. At UW he's studying engineering. As a kid, Brody went to Camp Nanabosho and always wanted to go back as a counselor. We're glad that he'll have that opportunity at North Star!

Brody is from an outdoors family. As a kid, they went on lots of camping trips. He played football growing up, but also was involved with theater and DECA in high school. Brody has lots of skills and at camp he'll be instructing riflery, football, fishing...and we'll probably find a few other things for him as well!

More about Brody

How did you learn about North Star and why did you apply?
-I learned about Camp North Star via the fishing and hunting club at UW-Madison. I decided that I would apply because when I was younger I attended summer camps and absolutely loved them. I also told myself that I wanted to become a counselor someday and I saw this as my opportunity to live up to a dream I have had since I was 10 years.

What is your dream job
-If I could do anything in the world, my job would be a hunting or fishing guide all over the world.

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
-If I could have lunch with any two people they would be; Mark Wahlberg and JJ Watt. Mark Wahlberg because he is my favorite actor due to the fact that he can play almost any kind of role and then JJ Watt because I admire his work ethic, compassion and the fact that he is a fellow badger.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
-If I could travel anywhere in the world I would go to Australia. Once there I would go on a safari and then just go hang out on the beach the rest of the time, while listening to people's awesome Australian accents.

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
-If I were stranded on a deserted island I would bring my fishing pole, my iphone to call for help, and a knife in case there are predators on the island.

What sports team(s) that you root for?
-Well since I attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison, I'm a huge badger fan. I also am a big Packer, and Brewer fan. Any team Wisconsin related I guess.

What noteworthy/random/menial jobs have you held?
-I worked at an inflatable bounce house place for about a year, it was awesome. I raced kids through inflatables and played in the arcade a bunch.

What did you do last summer?
-Last summer was my last one home with all my friends so I spent a lot of time with them. We spent a lot of time up north where we did a lot of fishing, swimming, and skiing. I also spent a week in Las Vegas with my family which was a blast.

What, if any previous camp/outdoor experiences have you had?
-My family has always been a very outdoor friendly family. My dad had me hunting by the age of 9 and I've been fishing since before I can remember. As a family we have gone on many camping trips both living in tents for weeks to living in a cabin for a week. Since I was young I always had a passion for the outdoors, which is a big reason why my mom signed me up for a YMCA summer camp when I was 9. I loved it so much I went 3 more years. I am now an avid outdoors man myself and love to go fishing, hunting, or camping whenever I get the chance.


Tuesday, April 7, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Ben Savoy


My name is Benjamin Savoy and I am outgoing guy. I love watching sports and hanging out with friends. I'm from Encino, CA and am a sophomore at Notre Dame High School. I have a passion for tennis, which is why I am on my school’s Varsity tennis team.

Outside of school I umpire little league baseball and teach math to young kids. I love going to the beach and swimming in the ocean. I enjoy helping others and I am a very open guy. I'll be instructing tennis and other athletics at camp this summer.
More about Ben

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- A book, Sun tan lotion, and a Rubix Cube. 

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- The lodge because it is where everyone meets as a community. 

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
1. Jackie Robinson and ask him what was his motivation for perusing his dream to become a baseball player. 2. My grandma who is 95 years old and I haven’t seen her in 10 years. 

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- San Francisco Giants, New Orleans Pelicans, and the New York Giants. 

What is your favorite special program at camp?
- I really enjoy Glens Game. 

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- I would go to New York City because I love seeing the beautiful city during the night. 

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook?
- Classic apple pie

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- My grandfather came from Florida and surprised me. 

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp has been the gateway to many special and unique friendship bonds that I still retain today from my first years at camp.  



Monday, April 6, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Sam Bricker


Sam Bricker returns to North Star for summer #9. A senior at Deerfield High School, Sam is the President of the student council. He's also the captain of the DHS tennis team and he recently finished second at the State DECA competition. Sam has also been heavily involved in School Chest, a fundraiser at the HS where they've raised tens of thousands of dollars for charity.

Growing up, one of Sam's baby sitters was Andy Shlensky. The editor notes, however, that Sam can grow better facial hair than Andy at this point! At Camp Sam instructs tennis and disc golf.

More about Sam

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- A knife, a frisbee, and a friend

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- The council ring is unbeatable, but the health center porch rocking chairs are a close second.

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- My grandfather and Theo Epstein

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bulls, Pittsburgh Steelers

What is your favorite special program at camp?
- Friday night service

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- Probably Paris. I'd go sightseeing, try new foods, and brush up on my french.

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook?
- Fresh Strawberry

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- My watch

How has camp impacted you?
- First and foremost camp has fostered the strongest of my friendships. It's been a place that provided familiarity and comfort, but so too has it pushed me to new heights. North Star provides an environment where counselors and campers alike can grow in ways they never could have imagined.

Sam getting ready for the innertube relay!

Sunday, April 5, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Noah Broutman


From Highland Park, Illinois, Noah Winkelman Broutman returns to North Star for his 7th summer.  Noah is a junior at Deerfield High School where he is on the Varsity Bowling Team and participates in his schools environmental, diversity and peer helping club.  He is also a photographer for the yearbook and a member of the Honor Society.  This past winter Noah was on the basketball courts assisting in the Deerfield Warrior Buddies basketball game. There, Noah helped special needs kids play a fun game of basketball against other schools.

At camp, you can find Noah teaching riflery, tennis and other activities. Noah is stoked for the summer to begin and can't wait to return for summer number seven.

More about Noah

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- A frisbee, a funbug and some buddies.

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- Drew Brees and Kevin Love

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- The New Orleans Saints and Chicago Bulls

What is your favorite special program at camp?
- Friday Night Services

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- New Orleans to watch a Saints game and eat the food

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook?
- Chocolate Mousse

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- I got a pet guinea pig years back.

How has camp impacted you?
- Where do I begin?  Camp has taught be so many life lessons and skills such as responsibility, teamwork, sportsmanship and leadership.  I have learned to put others before myself.  I have learned this values while getting to have an unbelievable experience filled with fun and memories.  Camp is something I will never forget and I could not imagine my life without it.



Saturday, April 4, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Zach Weber


Zach Weber returns to North Star for his ninth summer. A native of Chicago, he's been doing quite a bit of traveling lately. He's went to Park City, UT for a skiing trip with friends. In January he was in Costa Rica on a two week community service trip. While there he helped a mother with her new house, painting it. He also helped build her a pizza oven so she could start her own pizza business.  In December he went to Hong Kong and Thailand for two week for winter break. His favorite part of the trip was the food in Thailand--very spicy, very good!

Zach is currently a junior in high school. Besides racking up frequent flyer miles he's known for his climbing and fishing skills. At camp he'll instruct those projects as well as disc golf and riflery. We're excited to have Zach back at camp this summer!

More about Zach

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
A fully-charged satellite phone, 100 gallons of pure drinking water and a fly fishing rod

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- I personally like the lost campsites along the ridge.

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- Leonardo Da Vinci and  Warren Buffet

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- Chicago Cubs, Bears, Hawks, (pretty much every Chicago team other than the White Sox.)

What is your favorite special program at camp?
- Organized free, although I do like Espionage. 

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
Iceland to fly fish its rivers and see glaciers. 

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook?
Strawberry Rhubarb--hands down.

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- My mom once took me to New York with one of my best friends for a few days as a belated Hanukkah present. That was pretty fun!

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp has impacted me in several ways--too many to count so I'll just list a few of them: It has given me the ability to know how to interact in a mature setting with other people my age, camp has taught me life-long skills such; skills such as a new sport, how to overcome obstacles, and how to execute a leadership role. In addition, North Star has given me life-long friendships with campers and counselors all across the world--which I think is pretty awesome. Camp has made me excel in sports such as rock climbing, disc golf, and even sailing and has given me access to a diverse variety of countless others. North Star for me is a resource; a resource in which I use to choose how my summer will be spent, and ultimately, what experience I can take away from it.
Zach on the Canadian