North Star Camp for Boys







Sunday, May 31, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Asher Borstein


After six years as a camper, Asher Borstein joins the North Star staff as a counselor in training. A native of Chicago, IL, Asher is finishing up his sophomore year at Walter Payton College Prep. At school he's on the varsity tennis, chess a dn 16" softball teams. Academically his favorite subjects are math and science.

As a camper he could often be found at waterskiing (mastering the swan), tennis, disc golf and softball. We're looking forward to having in instructing many of those activities this summer. 

More about Asher

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- My family, good food (includes Oreos and mac and cheese), and something to write with.

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- Senior village campfire overlooking the lake

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

What sports team(s) that you root for?
-  Indians, Browns, Cavaliers, Bears, Bulls

What is your favorite special program at camp?
-  Glen's Game

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- France, to see the Eiffel tower and to eat delicious food.


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

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- Derrick Rose signed basketball

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp teaches independence and how to form quality friendships

Saturday, May 30, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Jacob Byck


Jacob Byck returns to North Star for his seventh summer and his third on staff. A native of Deerfield, IL, Jacob just graduated from Deerfield High School. Jacob will be trading his DHS Warrior red for Spartan green as next year he'll head to Michigan State University where he'll be a freshman in the fall.

Jacob is a big sports fan. He's played baseball and was also an assistant coach. We're excited to have him back as a cabin counselor instructing softball and other athletics. 

More about Jacob

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
 - I would bring a sleeping bag, a football, and a hammock.

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- The Council Ring.

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, it would be Jonah Hill and Pete Rose.

What sports team(s) that you root for?
-The Chicago White Sox, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Bears, and Michigan State.

What is your favorite special program at camp?
-  Glen’s Game.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- I would go to Italy and eat as much pizza and pasta there as possible.

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook?
-  Chocolate Peanut Butter.

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- An iPad.

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp has impacted me into becoming a responsible person. I never would have imagined being the counselor I am today without going to camp. On top of that, being an overnight camp counselor has taught me how to connect with kids, or any group of people. I am a totally different person as a result of camp. 

Staff Spotlight - Max Dokell


My name is Maxwell Dokell, but typically go by Max. I currently a Junior at the Emery/Weiner School in Houston, Texas. I play for the 1st year, varsity lacrosse team at my school. I recently traveled to New Orleans to visit family and go to the French Quarter Music Festival. Also, I went on a class trip to New York where I took part in activity revolved around my class's theme of empathy.  

I will be returning to camp for my 7th summer!

More about Max

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

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- The Council Ring

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- Winston Churchill and Andre Johnson

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- Houston Texans & Rockets

What is your favorite special program at camp?
- All Camp Capture the Flag

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- I would travel to Qamea Island, Fiji, where I would go spearfishing while living in a village.

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

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- Family Trip to London

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp has allowed me to be myself in a safe, friendly environment. It has taught me how to be able to be independent while still being there for the community.


Max (r) doing boil-water-boil

Wednesday, May 27, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Alec Kaplan


My name is Alec Kaplan and I'm excite do join the NSC Staff. I am finishing my sophomore year at the Lab School in Chicago, where I am taking all advanced classes. I am competitive in both tennis and archery. As of this week, I am a certified archery instructor. 

My biggest project this year has been the creation of the Lab School Finance Club, which focuses on investing education and portfolio management with money that the club has been raising. I am also a board member of the Junior Economic Club of Chicago, a  nonprofit run by high school students from around the city. Other extracurriculars include competitive Model UN and volunteer work at the University of Chicago Department of Surgery.

More about Alec

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

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- Archery Range

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- Napoleon Bonaparte and Iggy Pop

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- Tottenham Hotspur (English soccer team)

What is your favorite special program at camp?
- All-camp capture-the-flag

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- I would travel to London to see Tottenham play.

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

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- A new bow and a dozen new arrows

How has camp impacted you?
- It has allowed me to experience the outdoors in incredible ways and has connected me with so many bright people from all around the world

Monday, May 25, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Derrick Morrin


Derrick Morrin joins the North Star staff for his first summer. He won't have to travel too far this summer as he lives in Duluth, MN, which is about an hour and a half from camp. He went to Duluth Central High School and then spent a few years studying law enforcement.

He's now studying media production and photography at Lake Superior College in Duluth. He's gotten quite a bit of media experience, working on several different camera crews including for the University of Minnesota-Duluth hockey games. In addition to being a cabin counselor, Derrick will be working as a videographer at camp this summer.

More about Derrick

How did you learn about North Star and why did you apply?
- I heard about North Star camp by searching around for different summer camps in the region, and after learning all about it I was excited for my opportunity. At first I was interested in being just a camp counselor, but then the opportunity came along for me to being the photographer/ videographer.


What is your dream job
- My dream job is to either have my own photography business, managed all by myself or to gain popularity with my work and to be recognized at a higher level.

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- I wish to have lunch with Annie Leibovitz the famous photographer. I would also love to have lunch with any of my favorite hockey players from the Minnesota Wild.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- I would travel as much of Europe as possible, and I would love to just explore such a historic area of our past.

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- I would bring my camera, an renewable source of energy to keep that charged and a dog to keep me company.

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- I root for the Minnesota Wild, Vikings, and I'm also a supporter of the Packers as well.
The Minnesota Twins have been on a downward slope the past couple of years but I still enjoy Baseball.

What noteworthy/random/menial jobs have you held?
- In Duluth I have worked at a local gas station company, at several different locations. I have also worked for the local news station KBJR and filmed the UMD hockey games. I've worked for a friends dad's construction and masonry company. I have worked at Spirit Mountain, the decc as security and also security for a private company. I've also worked my fair share of retail and food service as well. Including , Casino Pizza in Cloquet, selling suits at Men's Wearhouse and I've also worked as a Valet at Fitger's Inn. I am very familiar with Duluth as I've always grown up here, and have worked in diverse fields for employment.

What did you do last summer?
- Last summer I worked at Fitger's Inn valeting cars all summer , and also working on my portfolio for my photography.

What, if any previous camp/outdoor experiences have you had?
- Growing up camping and canoeing was something I really  enjoyed, in my high school years I didn't have too many opportunities but I did go to the Boundary Waters two falls ago.

I am looking forward and highly excited for this summer,  and meeting all of the campers and fellow staff!

Friday, May 22, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Chai Yang


The North Star staff is going to be taken over by Eagles this year... UW La Crosse Eagles. We've got seven current students from UWL on our 2015 staff and one of them is new counselor Chai Yang. Chai is from Holman, WI, which is just outside of La Crosse. There he's majoring in political science with a minor in criminal justice. He is also an elected member of the UWL student government. He's also involved in several intramural sports.

Chai played tennis in high school and now he returns to his hometown all season long. For the last two years he's served as a volunteer coach for the Holman High School tennis team. He comes from a large family, having 12 siblings. So we'd say he's perfectly suited for cabin life. At camp Chai will instruct tennis.

More about Chai

How did you learn about North Star and why did you apply?
- I learned about North Star Camp when I received an email from Eagle Opportunities which is the employment website at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. The reason why I applied was because I have been looking for a summer camp job, and I enjoy being given the opportunity to help kids grow and to inspire them.

What is your dream job?
- My dream job is a pilot because I would be able to travel the world. I have always wondered what the view would look like from the airplane! Unfortunately, I haven’t have to opportunity to experience it, but one day I will!

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, I would choose my friend Quacheenu Vang and Martin Luther King, Jr. My friend Quacheenu passed away in early October last year; he was a good friend of mine. I have great respect for Martin Luther King, Jr. because he was known as a good leader and a good role model for others.

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 Brazil. The reason why I would like to go there is because of the Amazon forest. I have always wanted to see the waterfalls and wild creatures.

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- Water, chicken wings, and a knife.

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- Wisconsin Badgers and Green Bay Packers.

What noteworthy/random/menial jobs have you held?
- I am an Assistant Tennis Coach for the Holmen Boys Tennis. I also was a La Crosse Promise Program Advisor.

What did you do last summer?
- I took two summer classes: Statistics and Introduction to Political Science. I worked at McDonald’s and was also an advisor for the La Crosse Promise Program.

What, if any previous camp/outdoor experiences have you had?
- My summer of my 8th grade year, I did a program called the Mississippi River Summer Adventure. It was a program through the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. We went camping up north next to Lake Superior for three days and did a ten mile hike. I would go on bluff hikes with my friends during free time when there was nothing to do.

Thursday, May 21, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Drew Leshman


Drew Leshman returns to North Star for his fifth summer and first on the NSC staff. His hometown is the Detrot of  Huntington Woods. He is finishing up his sophmore year at Berkley High School in Berkley, Michigan. He recently got his drivers license a few weeks ago and is loving it.

A few weeks ago Drew was accepted into Generation Of Promise, which is a group of students from all over Michigan that get together and learn about each others background. The program is all about diversity, different groups of people coming together. At camp you'll find Drew instructing basketball, tennis, disc golf and even some wakeboarding.

More about Drew

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- A set of matches, as much water as possible, as much food as possible

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- Council Ring

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- Michael Jordan and Barack Obama

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- Michigan State Spartans, Detroit Lions, Detroit Pistons, Detroit Red Wings and the Detroit Tigers

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 travel to a private island, somewhere warm and sunny all the time. There I would swim, relax, and clear my mind of almost everything.

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook?
- Reeses Peanut butter cup

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- A trip to Israel with my family

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp has allowed me to become a happier person. I find myself most happy when I am camp. It has also taught me to love and accept all that nature offers. Also, it taught me that everyone deserves a chance. There are a tons of different people out there in the world, and that go to camp, and it is important that we all spend time with each other and learn about each other.

Drew, his co-captains and adviser on Pow Wow Day 2014

Staff Spotlight - Kathy Luy


Kathy Luy hails from Brookfield Wisconsin but has spent the last four years studying secondary education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She just graduated from the UW this May and is currently seeking a job as a social studies teacher. In addition to studying at the UW, she also played on the club soccer team this past fall and also ran her first marathon.

At camp, Kathy is one of the friendly voices that you'll get when when you call camp. She's one of two Kathys that works in the office. She also spends quite a bit of time on the waterfront  as part of the water ski staff.

More about Kathy

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- I would bring a soccer ball (to keep me entertained), a hammock (to hang between some palm trees and enjoy the stars) and an endless smores kit.

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- The end of the pier at swim point because it undoubtedly has the best view at camp.

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- Aaron Rodgers, but instead of lunch we would play catch. I would also want to have lunch with George Washington.


What sports team(s) that you root for?
- Wisconsin's pride and joy, the Packers; Chelsea Football Club, Bayern Munich and the U.S. Men's and Women's National Team. Also the Brewers, even though that is currently painful.

What is your favorite special program at camp?
- Glen's Game

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- I would go to Austria and go snowboarding in the mountains and catch a soccer game.

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook?
- Hands down, Raspberry Peach Melba

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- A giant Winnie the Pooh bear when I was four.

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp has been a home away from home for me. I've met some of my best friends these past few summers and I just can't seem to get enough of the North Woods.

Wednesday, May 20, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Adam Yaker


I’m Adam Yaker and I will be returning to North Star for my fifth summer as a CIT. I live in Huntington Woods, Michigan, a tiny suburb outside of Detroit and attend Berkley High School where I am wrapping up my sophomore year.

My home life outside of camp mainly consists in my participation and love for sports. This past year I played varsity tennis, junior varsity basketball and ran track for my school but I enjoy playing all types of sports with my friends. I write for my school newspaper and will be the new opinion section editor next year. Camp is just around the corner and I can’t wait to spend another summer at North Star.

More about Adam

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- My bed, a fan, and a phone to eventually get out.

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- The council ring of course.

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- Kobe Bryant and Kanye West

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- Detroit Red Wings, Tigers, Lions, and I attempt to root for the Pistons but it’s very hard, and all University of Michigan Sports. Go Blue!

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?
- Probably Spain so I could hang on the beach, eat good food and go to a soccer game.

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

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- My first phone in sixth grade because I was told I wasn’t getting one until after seventh grade.

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp is a place where I have made relationships with others from all across the country and despite not living near many of my closest camp friends, I know the friendships will last forever. Camp is special to me because it is a place where you don’t have to worry about what others think, you just can be yourself. Camp has allowed me to experience things I would never have been capable of experiencing otherwise.

Adam (R) and Ben Savoy

Staff Spotlight - Evan Mol


If it seems like we've got a bunch of staff members from University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, that's because we do... seven in total, including two returners. Evan Mol is another one of our new staff members from UWL. A native of Oconomowoc, WI, Evan is majoring in accounting with the goal of going into international auditing. He's also a resident assistant in the dorms at school.

Evan is an Eagle Scout. He has a love of the outdoors and some of his favorite badges that he earned were in swimming/life saving as well as archery. He also played quite a bit of soccer and tennis up through high school. In addition to being a cabin counselor, Evan will instruct archery and swimming this summer.

More about Evan

How did you learn about North Star and why did you apply?
- I heard about North Star through my campuses job notifications board. I was tentative to apply at first because I’ve never done a summer camp before as a counselor but I asked myself “Would I rather have a summer filled with fun and new experiences? Or would I rather do some manual labor job over and over this summer?” Well you can see the decision I made!

What is your dream job
- As odd as it is for a camp counselor I hope to one day be an international auditor. I’m going to school for Accounting/International Business and I have enjoyed the few times that I have traveled abroad. I love the idea of new adventures and look forward to what my future career could bring.

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- I think it would be interesting to have lunch with George Washington to see get understand what kind of vision he had for the United States when it was just forming and see how similar/different it was from the founding fathers ideals. My second lunch guest would be Nelson Mandela. He was a revolutionary man and his conviction for what he stood for is admirable so it would be an honor to be able to sit and listen to his life story.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- I think that I would want to travel to the Seychelles Islands which are located east of African continent. I would then sail (after extensive practice/training) around the islands and the Indian Ocean. I like the idea of open waters and the beauty of the area.

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- If I were stranded on a deserted island with no hope of rescue I think that a tarp would be one of the items that I would bring with me. Not only would it provide me with protection from the sun but when I constructed a raft it might be a good tool for keeping items protected from the salt water. My second item would either be a small ax. This would be useful for self-defense from any potential
predators, stripping bark, and acquiring wood for fire. Finally, I would make sure to have some sort of fire creating tool. My preference would be for flint and steel because it is effective. Fire is necessary for water purification, warmth, and a way of cooking any meat I would be able to scrounge.
What sports team(s) that you root for?
- I am big into sports and being from Wisconsin I always root for the Green and Gold! However, soccer has always been my biggest passion in life so whenever I get the chance to view a U.S. National teams game I will root for the U.S. Admittedly, during the world cup once the U.S. was eliminated I did root for my second favorite national team which is Germany.

What noteworthy/random/menial jobs have you held?
- I’d say the “worst” job that I held was that I did a summer paint crew one year. Every day it was the same thing and it got just to the point of being exhausting. Scrape, prime, and paint… over and over and over. It gets pretty boring after some time.

What did you do last summer?
- Last summer I worked as a business office intern at an assisted living facility in Milwaukee. The main function of my job was to conduct an internal audit of the company’s vendors. As boring as it sounds I actually found it quite fun because it was like being a detective. I got to look back through records and then investigate if items were actually purchased.

What, if any previous camp/outdoor experiences have you had?
- I had extensive scouting experience in my younger years with camp and other outdoor excursions. My favorite part about being in the scouts was the many camping trips that we were able to go on along with the multitude of merit badges that were available to be earned. I went to summer camp twice as a scout where both times I had phenomenal times completing merit badges and being able to camp out with fellow scouts.

Tuesday, May 19, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Max Pastan


Hi everyone! My name is Max Pastan but some people call me Boston at camp. I am from Marblehead Massachusetts which is a suburb near Boston. I am a Junior at Proctor Academy which is a boarding school in Andover New Hampshire. 

I participate in the FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) chapter I started this year at my school. I also play soccer, cross country ski, and row crew. This will be my 8th summer at camp and my 2nd year on staff. I am so excited to see all the returning campers and meet all the new ones!

More about Max

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- My cell phone so I could stay in touch with my family and friends, a sail boat & life supply of Caesar salad

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- The Council Ring

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

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- The New England Patriots, Boston Celtics, Boston Red Sox, Boston Bruins, and Chelsea F.C.

What is your favorite special program at camp?
- Pow Wow Day

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- I would go to the British Virgin Islands and I would sail around.

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

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- Lego Eiffel Tower

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp has impacted me greatly by teaching me how to be a leader as well as how to live with other people. It also taught me how to be independent which helped me when I first came to boarding school.

Staff Spotlight - Kieran Levett


Kieran Levett comes to North Star all the way from Nelson in New Zealand. As a youngster he moved to Australia for a few years before returning to New Zealand. Kieran is a big swimmer. He completed in swimming when he was younger and got his first job as a swim instructor when he was sixteen years old.

Kieran taught swim lessons all through high school and when he graduated, he began working full time. He teaches swim lessons and he has moved up the ranks and is a senior swim instructor at the ASB Aquatics Centre. In addition to teaching, he has administrative responsibilities, supervises other swim instructors and helps plan holiday programming. Kieran joins the North Star staff for his first summer and he'll be a cabin counselor teaching swimming.

More about Kieran

How did you learn about North Star and why did you apply?
- I found out about North Star through an agency in New Zealand! I did some research and it didn't take much convincing that the atmosphere and programs were awesome and that it seemed like an ideal place for my first experience in America.

What is your dream job
- Still can't quite answer this question myself yet! But I love teaching swimming and I'm really into the idea of starting up my own swim school one day.

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- Robin Williams and Bruce Wayne

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- America is a pretty awesome start! Apart from that Europe has always held an incredible amount of allure for me. I really want to do a trip through and visit Places like Spain, Italy and France and learn more about their culture, history and FOOD!

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- An lifetime supply of Chocolate (for energy of course), A fridge to put it in and a satellite phone.

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- The All Blacks!

What noteworthy/random/menial jobs have you held?
- For the last three and a half years I have worked as a Swim Instructor, part time when I was at High School and then full time once I graduated. apart from that not a lot!

What did you do last summer?
- My summer only just ended, WOOP double summer! but mainly a lot of time spent at the river or beach. Swimming, Biking and Spending time with my siblings and mates.

What, if any previous camp/outdoor experiences have you had?
- I haven't worked at a Camp before but I have attended a holiday camp close to where I live a few times. I was also a scout for about three years when I was younger and we did loads of camps and hikes!

Staff Spotlight - Alex Lara


Alex and Laney during the summer of 2013
Alex Lara returns to North Star for his third summer. He is a native of Varacruz in Mexico. There he is studying at Universidad Veracruzana. He is in his last semester and he will earn his bachelors degree in languages translation, interpretation and teaching. He is very involved in the university prom as well.

Alex recently got a part time job working at a day care. We are lucky to have Alex back working in our kitchen. One of our great traditions is Martha's Cinammon Bread, which is a staple of our Saturday night chicken BBQ and Alex keeps everyone happy making the bread perfectly.

More about Alex

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- I have seen the show of Bear Grills and since I wont eat a raw fish, I choose: water, food and a cellphone

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- The council Ring, that place its so quiet and its good to be thankful for the things that you have

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- Mss. Obama because she is such a strong and independent person and I think she has interesting stories to tell.

What sports team that you root for?
- I like  basketball  but I don't have a favorite team.

What is your favorite special program at camp?
- United Nations day because that day all camp participate in the activities with the kids, and the dinner is awesome.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- -Definitely China, the culture its incredible, and its full of landmarks and awesome places to see.

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook?
- Snickers, O M G that pie is the best, one reason to go to Hayward if you ask.

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- A trip to X-caret a place where you can do scuba diving, that day I say the biggest fish I ever seen, a barracuda.

How has camp impacted you?
- I think camp is one place where you can be yourself without judgment, and everyone encourage each others to try new things and where you can make true friends.
Everyone there is friendly, kind and polite, and be around of these type of people make me a better person.


Monday, May 18, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Micah Jona


I’m Micah Jona, I’m from Wilmette, IL, and this will be my 8th summer back at camp. I’m currently a sophomore at New Trier Township High School, where I am on the tennis team. When I am not playing tennis, or cramming for a test, I’m usually hanging out with my friends.

This summer I will be instructing disc golf, tennis, and land sports! I have loved all my 7 years as a camper and can’t wait to continue my NSC journey as a CIT! I’m excited to meet all the new campers and staff members!

More about Micah

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- My laptop (wifi included), a comfy chair, and a boat for when I’m ready to leave.

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- The council ring, without a doubt!

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- Walter Payton and Michael Jordan.

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- Any Chicago based team except for the White Sox, the Northwestern Wildcats, and the Wisconsin Badgers.

What is your favorite special program at camp?
- All camp capture the flag.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- Cape Town South Africa, ever since I’ve been a little kid I have dreamed about going shark cage diving with great white sharks. And Cape Town is the best place for that!

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

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- My two year old yellow lab, Stanley. Got him when he was only 6 weeks old.

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp has impacted me in more ways than I can count! None more important than the relationships I have created, even in my first year when I was only eight years old. Every year  I have created new friendships that have lasted ever since. Camp has also taught me responsibility, more than I ever thought it would when I first came to North Star. I learned how to compromise, how to take on a leadership role, and not to be afraid to get outside of my comfort zone and try something new. 

Micah (L) on the Canadian in 2014


Staff Spotlight - Jasmin Garey


Jasmin Garey will spend her first summer at North Star. She was at camp in early June of 2014, visiting Chris Rodriguez, so she figured that she had to spend an entire summer this year. She just graduated from Stephen F. Austin University in Nacogdoches, TX.

Working with children is very important to her, especially those in need. She has been interning with CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates). She homes to make this work a part of her career. Jasmin will be working in our office this summer and will also instruct climbing. We're excited to have her on the North Star staff!

More about Jasmin

How did you learn about North Star and why did you apply?
- I learned about North Star through Chris. He has always talked so highly of everyone and has always told me about how much he loves it. When I visited last summer everyone was so friendly and inviting, not to mention how beautiful it is. I applied because I thought it would be an awesome experience because of my love for kids and being out doors and active!

What is your dream job?
- My dream job would have to be a child life specialist.

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- I would have lunch with Justin Timberlake and Mother Teresa.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- I would travel to the Polynesian Islands and I would simply relax.

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- I would bring a device that played music, my dogs, and lots of food.

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- Razorbacks & lumberjacks!

What noteworthy/random/menial jobs have you held?
- Waitress, bartender, pizza delivery girl, and teacher assistant

What did you do last summer?
- Last summer I spent every day with my coworkers as we all worked and took classes!

What, if any previous camp/outdoor experiences have you had?
- I used to always attend Super Summer camp and I love rock climbing, swimming, and running.


Sunday, May 17, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Caleb Brown


Caleb Brown returns to North Star for his second summer. After a one year absence, Caleb will join the NSC trip staff as one of our trip leaders. A resident of Rock Hill, SC, Caleb is currently a graduate student at Winthrop University. There he is getting his Masters of Art in teaching. He is also a graduate assistant there.

Caleb has always been an avid camper. He's gone on extensive hikes and canoes, and after the summer of 2013, he and NSC trip leader Stratton Shook headed out west for a road trip that involved some great hiking out in Wyoming. Caleb has worked at a few other camps, including special needs camps and camps for kids with cancer. We're excited to have him return to the NSC staff

More about Caleb
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 knife, my kindle, and a solar charger. First off a knife is just necessary in any survival situation. If I stand any chance of building a raft like Tom Hanks in Castaway, I’m going to need that knife. A kindle on the other hand serves no practical use in the woods. That’s ok though because I really like to read. An unlimited supply of books would be useful on the deserted island as I would have a lot of time to read them. Lastly, we have the solar charger. The solar charger is to power the kindle, as well as serve other purposes. I imagine if I were to take apart the solar charger I could figure out how to use the energy to establish my own resort on said island.

What is your favorite spot at camp? 
- My favorite spot at camp without a doubt is the lodge. The lodge is my favorite place on campus because it is the central iconic camp wide meeting place. I like the lodge because it brings all of camp together. The building itself also represents tradition and commitment to a great summer and great lifelong friend ships. 

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- I would have lunch with both Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and Theodore Roosevelt. Being a history major I thoroughly enjoy studying the American Presidents. I would love to sit down with FDR and Teddy Roosevelt for lunch just to see how they treated each other. I like them both for different reasons, but I would also like to see them duke it out in a debate. 

What sports team(s) that you root for? 
- First and foremost I LOVE the University of South Carolina Gamecocks. This is my hometown team and will forever be my favorite. When it comes to professional football I like the Carolina Panthers. Basketball the Charlotte Hornets, and soccer Everton Football Club

What is your favorite special program at camp? 
- My favorite special program at camp is the Key Log ceremony. The Key Log ceremony is simply what camp is about. Campers and counselors alike come together to celebrate the spirit of camp. There is nothing more livelily. 

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
Caleb showing off his balance at Lumberjack Bowl
- If I could travel anywhere in the World I would travel across India in order to see the Taj Mahal and eventually cross into the Himalayas and Tibet. Both the scenery and culture fascinate me. I firmly believe that travel is the best way to learn.  

What's your go-to pie at the Norske Nook? 
- I usually keep it old-fashioned and stick with some sort of berry pie. Blueberry if they have it. Matter of fact my stomach is rumbling just thinking about it now. 

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten? 
- This has to be my Drum-set. My parents bought me my acoustic drum-set when I was 12 years old. Since then I have added new pieces, but the sound remains the same. My parents really encouraged my music and gave me the resources necessary to learn. It sincerely is the gift that keeps on giving.  

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp has impacted me by allowing me to learn how to freely adapt. It is hard to bring a wide variety of people together to one place when they all have different backgrounds. This is what makes camp so special. It brings so many people together. This has reaffirmed the lesson of teamwork. I want to be the best I can be by working with my peers.  

Staff Spotlight - Drew Lorimer



Drew Lorimer joins the North Star staff for his first summer. Coming all the way from Glasgow, Scotland, Drew just completed his first year at Glasgow Caledonian University. In school he's studying computing and he wants to go into 3D animation in the future. During his final year in high school he achieves the academic excellence award for his creative abilities in Art and Design.

Drew has quite a bit of experience with kids. At a gym he worked with 10-15 year olds. He volunteered with the Guide Association, facilitating songs, games and other activities. At camp Drew will instruct windsurfing.

More about Drew

How did you learn about North Star and why did you apply?
- Initially I applied through Camp Leaders and then when North Star got in contacted I knew this would be the perfect camp for me as not only would it allow me to do the activities I love, and share knowledge I have about these activities, but also learn different skills off the new people i'll meet.

What is your dream job?
- My dream job would be to work for an animation company, like Disney and Pixar, as an Art & Design Animator.

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

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- Australia so I could go scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef.

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
1. Lots of water so I could survive long enough to be rescued.
2. A football so I have something to keep me entertained.
3. Something comfortable to sleep on at night.

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- I support Fulham FC, a football team from London.

What noteworthy/random/menial jobs have you held?
- I have been a delivery boy for Pizza Hut.

What did you do last summer?
- Last summer I went to a music festival with my friends then after coming home went away again with them on a holiday together. I also celebrated my 18th birthday before preparing for my first year at University.

What, if any previous camp/outdoor experiences have you had?
- I've been on multiple weekend trips for various sporting activities, for example windsurfing and skiing weekends. I also went camping in Europe in summer while on holiday with my cousin. 

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Nikko Van Crey


Nikko Van Crey returns to North Star for his second year on staff. A former camper and CIT, Nikko took the last two summers off. He grew up just outside of Austin, TX. There he was very interested in robotics and engineering. He just finished up his freshman year at the University of Michigan, where he's studying mechanical engineering.

Nikko has a pretty wide variety of interests. During high school he spent a few years on the power lifting team. Archery was one of his favorite activities as a camper and he continued to shoot outside of camp. This summer Nikko will be instructing archery and fitness training.

More about Nikko

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- 1.My bow 2.Extra underwear 3. Pizza

What is your favorite spot at camp?
- The dining hall

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- Nikola Tesla and Anthony Van Crey

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- Barcelona

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?
- Japan. Explore Tokyo and watch anime on the TV

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

Best holiday gift that you've ever gotten?
- Custom-made calendar from my grandma

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp has taught me how to share space with others, assume responsibility for others, and better resolve conflicts.





Tuesday, May 12, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Garrett Sprutta


Tinley Park, IL native Garrett Sprutta joins the North Star trip staff for his first summer at camp. Garrett started camping as a youngster. His parents took him and his twin brother on their first camping trip when they were six months old. He took several trips to the Boundary Waters (Minnesota) throughout high school, and during the summer after his senior year, he and his brother took his mom and aunt on a Boundary Waters trip.

Currently a junior at Bradley University, Garrett is a resident assistant. He also helped start the backpacking club, which he is the vice president of. He helps oversee many different logistical facets of the program and also has led trips for other students at Bradley. We're excited to have him as a trip leader this summer!

More about Garrett

How did you learn about North Star and why did you apply?
- My twin brother was the one who told me about North Star and encouraged me to apply for camp. Aside from my brother's motivation, I applied for North Star because I've always wanted to work at a camp and be able to share my passions for the outdoors with others.

What is your dream job
- My dream job is to be an entrepreneur. I would like to start a nonprofit that would bring different forms of alternative energies to third world countries.

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- I would want to meet and have lunch with Tom Hanks and John Muir.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- I would travel to Germany to see the history and architecture. 

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- I would have to bring my hammock, iPod, and my favorite book, The Green Mile.

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- I love the Chicago Cubs and this past season, I started to follow the Green Bay Packers.

What noteworthy/random/menial jobs have you held?
- I grew up doing lawn care with my brother for  people in my neighborhood. We started the company 'Sprutta Bros' when we were ten years old!

What did you do last summer?
- Last summer I traveled to California for the first time, and I work odd jobs at my school.

What, if any previous camp/outdoor experiences have you had?
- I'm been camping since I was six months old, and I've been to many amazing places including Big Bend N.P., Zion N.P., and Denali N.P.


Monday, May 11, 2015

Staff Spotlight - Joey Kujala


Trip leader Joey Kujala joins the North Star staff for his first summer. Hailing from Shell Lake, WI, Joey grew up less than an hour from camp. He's spent quite a bit of time on many of the rivers and trails that he'll lead trips on this summer. He volunteered for the forest service, working on the Superior Hiking Trail. He's also spent upwards of ten months on the Namekagon and St. Croix rivers.

Joey is currently a student at the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point, finishing his degree in Environmental Education/Interpretation. While there he's spent time working at the Central Wisconsin Environmental Station teaching 3rd - 9th graders. In addition to his love of the outdoors, Joey is a big fan of disc golf and is looking forward to playing a few rounds at camp this summer.

More about Joey

How did you learn about North Star and why did you apply?
- I received a Job Announcement from NOLS and decided to apply after looking over the trip locations. I grew up in the Midwest and spent my youth exploring the Porcupine Mountains, the Superior Hiking Trail, and the Namakagon and St. Croix rivers. It seemed like a good fit.


What is your dream job
- To work for the NPS as a Backcountry Ranger full-time along with being a representative for a disc golfing company such as Discraft or Innova.

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?
- Lead singer Anthony Keidis from the Chili Peppers and John Muir. I’d have to have separate lunches though.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do there?
- I’d go to New Zealand. Most likely go skiing, hiking, swimming, and hike the treacherous trail to Mordor.

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- An axe, some rope, and prescription sunglasses.

What sports team(s) that you root for?
- I enjoy watching sports, but don’t get too crazy about any team in particular. If I had to choose however: The Packers, The Badgers, and The Wild.

What noteworthy/random/menial jobs have you held?
- I’ve held many jobs over the past several years. My favorite has been working for the NPS and my least favorite was working in a grocery store. Some of the more random jobs I’ve held that have been a lot of fun include a Lift Operator at Giants Ridge in MN and working at Central Waters Brewing Company in WI.


What did you do last summer?
- Last summer I attended an intensive 5 week long summer research session for school, and then after that worked with the NPS in the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.

What, if any previous camp/outdoor experiences have you had?
- I’ve been involved in the outdoors from a very young age via family outings and Boy Scouts. Some of the adventures I’ve had include Backpacking in New Mexico, sailing in the Florida Keys, Dogsledding in Canada, and many canoe trips in the Midwest.