Staff News Update

After our summer ended, our staff headed off in all directions. Some went back to school, other began world travels. Here's an update, so check out what our 2014 staff are up to!

- JOE CHRISTIAN is a sophomore at UW-Lacrosse where he is majoring in biology and joining ROTC program in the Fall. Joe will be playing on his club lacrosse team as well.
- SCOTT PLONSKER returned for his sophomore year at University of Illinois, where he is in the AEPi fraternity with Jonah Baim and Sam Friedland. Scott is studying business and is also in PGN, a business fraternity.
- NED SHASHOUA is a freshman at Northwestern University where he is studying chemistry. Before school started he traveled  with his dad to the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas.
- MARK HEMMERMAN headed off to travel all around the US. He met his sister on the West Coast to travel LA, Grand Canyon, and San Francisco. Than he’s headed to Orlando to meet Alex Holmes and traveled the East Coast with him. He returned to England, going back to school at the University of Hull for his Arts and Humanities degree, and he will started back up with lifeguarding and running his karate club.
- SAM BRICKER is a senior at Deerfield High School where he is the President of the Student Council. Sam will be playing tennis and going on a few college visits.
- ELI FRIED started as a freshman at the University of Central Florida where he will be studying Industrial Engineering.
- JACOB GUGGENHEIM started his PhD in Biorobotics at MIT.  He headed to DC for a week before moving to Boston. Jacob is planning on getting onto an IM Ultimate Frisbee and volleyball teams.
- ARI WEIL is at Pomona College where he is a freshman most likely studying International Relations. He hopes to keep biking and play some ultimate frisbee as well.
- MIKE SLAKIS returned to the University of Illinois for his sophomore year where he is studying civil engineering. He is in the Sigma Nu fraternity and is the Kitchen Manager there. Mike is also in Illini on Target, the shooting club at school. He plans to work at the rock climbing wall.
- MICHAEL BERGER is a sophomore at American University in Washington D.C, where he is studying political science and journalist. He continued his involvement in Students Helping Honduras as the director of recruitment, and will do a second trip there in the winter.
- IAN MICHELSON is a senior at New Trier. He’ll continue to play tennis to gear for up for the school season. He’s planning on going to the US Open in New York.
- ADAM CLOCH is starting as a freshman at Miami of Ohio where he is in the business school. Cloch is looking forward to keeping his hockey skills fresh on the IM teams.
- HOLDEN GREENBERG began as freshman at Carleton College in Northfield, MN. Holden wants to continue his interests in Ultimate Frisbee and Shakespeare. Before heading off to school, he had a trip planned to Maine.
- JACK WALKER is in his sophomore year at the University of Southern California where he will study English. Before he left for school, he and his band the White Siberian Tigers played a few shows scheduled around Chicago and Champaign.
- NOAH BROUTMAN is inhis junior year at Deerfield High School where he is on the bowling team, Earthworks, and the stage crew.
- FOREST LEMON returned to the University of Arkansas for his Junior year, where he is studying mechanical engineering. Forest left from camp to go with his family on a week-long trip through the Boundary Waters. At school, he’s working as a lifeguard at the rec center on campus while also rock climbing and doing IM football and softball.
- ISAAC LASKO is moving to Boston to start as a freshman at Tufts University, after completing a gap year program in South America last year. Isaac is planning to follow a pre-med track. Isaac left camp a few days early and headed to Budapest and Berlin with his immediate family and a reunion with his extended family.
- ETHAN LEVY is in Madison where he will is a freshman at the University of Wisconsin. Ethan is planning to do intramural sports.
- BRAD MILLER is back at University of Wisconsin-Whitewater where he is a sophomore studying elementary education. Brad is on the Lacrosse team, which travels around the Midwest for tournaments.
- SPENCER REED is a senior at Loyola High School in Los Angeles, where he is going the Features Editor for the newspaper. Spencer is on the student council and the Crew team.
- PHILIP RASANSKY began his freshman year at Dartmouth. Before he headed to school, he helped his twin brother Parker move in at the University of Texas in Austin.
- JACOB ZIONTS is entering his senior year at Highland Park High School where he is involved in DECA and the debate team.
- DANNY VERB returned to Tulane University for his sophomore year where he is studying business and computer science. He is part of the Hillel Leadership program and involved in his fraternity Zeta Psi.
- CHIP KASS is a freshman at Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT. Chip is studying economics and political science, and also hopes to keep up with theater and music. Chip headed to San Francisco with his grandpa before he left for school.
- JACOB BYCK is a senior year at Deerfield High School. Jacob is involved in DECA and devoting himself to his fantasy football team.
- NATHAN MARGRETT returned to school at University of Wisconsin - Lacrosse where he is a junior studying archeology and psychology.
- MAX SINTON is a senior at Deerfield High School where he will be participating in DECA and travel lacrosse. Fantasy football will also take precedent over most matters throughout the Fall.
- JONAH BAIM is back for his sophomore year at the University of Illinois where his a computer engineering major. He is also the athletics head of the AEPi fraternity and on the Illini volleyball team.
- ETHAN HANDLER is enjoying his senior year at at Glenbrook North High School. Ethan will be playing a lot of tennis and is on the math team at GBN. He is on the Student Advisory Board, and is also a Peer Group Leader under the tutelage of Linda Rosenblum (the daughter of Lou and Renee Rosenblum, who founded North Star).
- ZACH WEBER is a junior at Roycemore Academy. Zach continued teaching climbing in Evanston and Chicago. His family is planning a trip to Asia.
- DAVID GLASS is a senior at Highland Park High School. David is on the school sailing team and continues to play the piano as well.
- DYLAN DJ JACOBS is back at Bradley University for his final college semester. In December, DJ will graduate with a degree in Interactive Media with a minor in computer science, and is looking to design the next great Disney movie.
- ZACH SHAPIRO is in his junior year and Francis W. Parker School. Zach is playing shows through School of Rock and is participating in Model UN.
- CHARLIE STERRETT returned to the University of Illinois for his junior year. Charlie is studying political science. He is also the president of his fraternity Delta Chi and is a data analysis intern at the U of I Alumni Association. Charlie is also the co-chair of iHelp, the service wing of the Alumni Association.  Charlie is looking forward to competing in the Big Ten Classic Bass Fishing Tournament in October.
- MAX PASTAN is a junior at Proctor Academy. Max is going to be involved in their chapter of Future Business Leaders of America. After camp he headed to Arkansas to do some community service work with Kipp Academy. Max also played soccer in the Fall.
- ZACH WOODY WOODBURY returned to Western Illinois University where is a junior studying information systems and economics. He will continue on the bass fishing team and is now the web coordinator of the team.
- DANIEL LEVINE is a senior at Parker, and is working the Illinois gubernatorial campaign. Daniel is the copy editor of the school newspaper as well as a writer. This fall Daniel kept  playing tennis as well, preparing for the school season in the spring.
- ETHAN RANE is a junior at Stevenson, where he is part of the ultimate frisbee club and intramurals as well.
- ELLIOTT GOLDBERG is a junior at New Trier High School, where he is involved in the Track and Cross Country teams.
- BIRCAN MUSTAFA traveled to Indianapolis and Chicago after camp. He was hoping to check out Los Angeles as well. Upon returning home, Bircan began  working towards becoming a quadrant supervisor at Wembley Stadium. He also was able to take in the Falcons-Lions NFL game in London.
- SAM FRIEDLAND returned for his sophomore year at the University of Illinois, where he is living in the AEPi fraternity with Scott Plonsker and Jonah Baim. Sam is the philanthropy chair of AEPi while training for a half-marathon. Sam is writing for the satire newspaper on campus.
- AMANDA CHIN heading back home to Columbus, OH to spend a few weeks with her family. She is now working as a nurse in Indianapolis.
- CHAD PRATER moved to Minneapolis where he is teaching at the Twin Cities German Immersion School. Chad is teaching middle school math.
- CAITLIN PALGEN is in her senior year at the University of Illinois where she is studying nursing. At school, Caitlin spends her free time at the rock wall and is also hoping to work in a hospital at the same time.
- ROBYN KIRK is in Cincinnati where she is a teacher at Ohio Valley Voices. Before heading back,  she stopped in Minneapolis to reunite with some old friends.
- IKE NIERMAN is a junior at New Trier where he is a pole vaulter on the track team. In his free time he likes to spend time with his friends, play music and play basketball.
- MICHAEL PALGEN is a junior at the University of Illinois where he is studying actuarial science. Michael is the brotherhood chair for Sigma Nu and is working as a desk clerk in one of the residence halls on campus.
- JACOB LEHR is back at USC where he is a junior studying economics and international relations. Lehr Bear is leading trips for the Outdoor Adventures club at school. Jacob will continue to tutor and mentor through Troy Camp.
- NICK HILL is back at Indiana University, finishing his degree in Business and Outdoor Recreation. Nick will be finishing in December and is hoping to lead trips through the spring.
- JEFF PADESKY is in his senior year at Western Illinois University where he is studying Environmental Science, Geography and GIS. Jeff will also be running track, a member of the bass fishing team, and the ultimate frisbee team. Jeff is also beginning the WIU Hydroponics club.
- RICHELLE POISSON is back at American University for her sophomore year where she is studying education as well as Spanish and international relations. Richelle will also be continuing to work on behalf of Students Helping Honduras as executive board member. In her free time she works as a nanny as well.
- OLIVER ROCKMAN returned to Emory University in Atlanta for his junior year where he is in the School of Business. Oliver is also a writer for the Emory Wheel student newspaper and a member of the outdoor club.
- NICK KASLE headed back to High Point, NC for his junior year at High Point University where he is studying Physics. Nick is also on the club swim team at school.
- LUCAS KASLE is a freshman at Muhlenberg College in Allentown, PA, where he is following in his big brother’s footsteps and is studying physics. Lucas also intends to be on the swim club at school.
- STUART WRIGLESWORTH began his post-camp adventures by heading to Houston where he met up with a friend from University. After that, he headed up to Chicago, DC and New York. Stuart is in his final year at Manchester Metropolitan University of Cheshire. He’ll is the chairman of the rugby club and also of the surf and snow society.
- ALEX HOLMES  headed to Chicago where he stayed with his co-counselors Ike Nierman and Ian Michelson. From Chicago he headed to Champaign to visit the University of lllinois, and then he flew south to Orlando. After Orlando, Alex traveled to New York, Niagara Falls, and Washington DC. In September, Alex left the US for Hong Kong where he will is working for several months teaching personal development and outdoor education for kids.
- WILL HUNT - will be going to meet his parents in San Francisco and will be heading up to Yosemite as well. Then he will return home and volunteer at three different schools. Following that, he hopes to head to Africa where will lead a volunteer effort to teach youth sports.
- CHRIS McGARRY headed to New Orleans for a week to see his dad and show Beata the French Quarter. He then returned home to Davie, FL.
- CIARAN POLLOCK returned to Ireland where he traied for a charity boxing match. He started school back up again where he is studying Sports Management and Coaching.
- STRATTON SHOOK took a road trip to Seattle to visit his parents and see the Nationals play the Mariners. Then he attended a bachelor party for his high school friend. He is now traveling the world with Chris Rodriguez, first heading to China and then Vietnam.
- CHRIS RODRIGUEZ – stayed on at camp for a few weeks to help close up and do some improvements, before he headed back to Fort Worth to spend some time with his family and his new baby nephew. He’s in the midst of travels with tripper Stratton in Asia.
- BEATA TAKACOVA - is returned to Slovakia where she recently graduated from her university with a degree in English and French. She is hoping to work as a translator working to translate poetry with one of her professors.
- DANI VARGAS MONTERO returned to Pachuca in Hidalgo, Mexico where she is finishing up her schooling in Culinary Arts. Dani will be travelling to Playa del Carmen to work during her vacation.

Celebrating our 70th Summer with our Alumni

The idea of holding a 70th summer alumni reunion was pretty much a no brainer. Its been about 15 years since we last held an alumni reunion on-site at camp and we knew that there were lots of former campers and staff who were really wanting to get back to North Star and reunite with their camp friends. We really began pushing the event in March and with a lot of support from a handful of active alums, we were excited to welcome about 70 NSC alums to North Star this past weekend.

As is always the case, we follow up our summer with a week of post-camp, where about 25-30 families spend time here at camp transitions to more of a resort. This year we ended post camp a bit early so we could hold the reunion. Even before post-camp was over we had a handful of alumni trickle into camp, joining us for our post-camp bowling extravaganza and then coming into camp on Friday morning. Not coincidentally, they started arriving right around 11am, which is when we begin waterskiing for the day. 

Over the course of the day on Friday, we went from a handful of alums to almost our entire crowd. It was truly special seeing the different reactions when people got to camp. For some, it was being at camp after decades of absence that seemed to really strike them. For others, it was seeing friends who they hadn't seen since their camp days that was truly emotional.

Our Friday evening saw that emotion continue as everyone went to the Council Ring for a Friendship Fire. We had some songs along with a few alums who spoke, including Jim Silberman, who did a tremendous job bringing the spirit of Lou and Renee to the reunion. As the sun was setting, Andy lit the fire for a keylog ceremony. At first, only a few people went down and we figured that it may be an abbreviated keylog ceremony. Almost an hour and a half later, the final keylog was thrown onto the fire. The outpouring of feelings, memories and gratitude at the keylog ceremony was truly special and really bridged the different generations that were at the Council Ring. After Forest Green and Taps, everyone headed to the Lodge for more stories and even a few Tombstone pizzas.

Saturday was a day of action as we had two periods in the morning with open programming. Reunion "campers" got a chance to shoot riflery and archery, go waterskiing and participate in their favorite camp activities. The big attraction was at Lou's Diamond as half the crowd played in a softball game. As the day went on, our "campers" continued to do their best to recapture their youth as they tried to get up on slalom skis and play speedball. 

We took time in the afternoon to have a marathon. Everyone was put onto either the green or white team and everyone was given a role in the 17-event marathon. The marathon got off to an auspicious start for the white team. Only a few events into the marathon the canoeing tandem of Jon Sherman and Joel Richman were barely off shore when they tipped their canoe. In fairness, the canoe didn't end up tipping, however both Sherm and Joel ended up in Brewer's Bay. The white team would catch up and the boil-water-boil would be the deciding event. Ultimately it was youth over beauty as Jimmy Sarnoff and Rob Kallick were able to get their water to boil ahead of Rieber Paulson, Richard Rusnack and Guy Wolff. 

After dinner, everyone headed up to Mike Hall for a talent show/request program. Everyone was treated to Manfred Frank's "Apples and Bananas", Tim Schroer's "Church Lady" and lots of other great songs and skits from years past. Everyone then rose for the "we were here" song, and it was amazing to see that every year from 2014 through 1946 had at least one person standing. After everyone participated in "Carry On" and "North Star Blues", we again finished the evening (and for many, started the morning) in the lodge, looking at pictures and telling more stories.

There were certainly more than a few sore campers on Sunday morning, and unfortunately, our reunion had to come to a close. Many left after breakfast and by lunch, we had a few final campers standing that needed to stretch their stay at camp as long as possible. 

We'd like to throw in a keylog to everyone who was able to make it to the 70th reunion. The event also served as a fundraiser and allowed us to "remember the scholarship fund" as all money taken in by the event was donated to the Camp for All Kids Foundation. We know that many more wanted to be here and were made a bit jealous as they heard continuous updates from the weekend via text message and email. Its our hope that we are able to make this a regular event and we are looking forward to celebrating with you all in August of 2019 as we recognize North Star's 75th summer. 

Honoring our Big Ten Guys

Earlier this week we had the opportunity to honor nine guys who have dedicated the last ten summers to North Star. There are few if any milestones at North Star that are looked at the same way that The Big Ten is. These are often years spent as both camper and counselor and to be able to spend that many years at camp is something pretty special.

Planning for the Big Ten began in earnest in early June. We find a small group of staff who will help us oversee the event. It has to be a small group as the Big Ten is supposed to be a secret and while occasionally someone will find out, we want to surprise as many of the Big Ten folks as possible. Our honorees will do their best detective work to figure out the date of the event, looking for days on the calendar that are likely to end with the Big Ten. 

Once the date is set, we invite a large group of guests, from parents to camp friends. This year we were lucky to have over 30 guests make their way to camp for the Big Ten, with visitors coming from as far away as New York. Over the course of the summer, we will do our best to fake out the Big Ten guys. We'll call them up in front of the camp, send in  guys with banners and costumes, only to unveil a banner declaring it to be a fake. This year the Big Ten coincided perfectly with the Lumberjack World Championships in Hayward. We took the entire camp to the first night of LWC at the Lumberjack Bowl and as the event was ending, we were lucky enough to have some of the competitors come out to answer our questions. 

We did some pre-planning, however, and our friends and competitors Abby Hoeschler and Lizzie Horvitz. Both are log rollers and they helped get Big Ten rolling. Towards the end of the Q&A, our Big Ten guys were called down to the front of the main stage at Lumberjack Bowl and Abby announced that it might be, it could be, it was, the Big Ten. After some fanfare, We quickly loaded campers and staff into the buses, headed back to camp, where the guests were waiting to fete the guys. 

Stories were told as the Big Ten guys were presented with a framed pic of North Star, as well as a poster of pics of them over the years. Everyone gets a kick out of seeing these young men from their younger days! 

We thank Jonah Baim, Eli Fried, Holden Greenberg, Chip Kass, Jacob Lehr, Ethan Levy, Lake McCormack, Philip Rasansky, and Danny Verb for ten great years at camp and look forward to ten more!

Staff Spotlight - Simon Dinkin

Hey everyone, I'm Simon Dinkin and I'm returning to North Star for my seventh summer. I'm from from San Diego, CA, I'm finishing up my sophomore year at Torey Pines High School.  I recently went to La Paz, Mexico for Spring Break! We went to the beaches,snorkeled, and went fishing.  It was a blast!! I also started coaching a 2nd and 3rd grade Rec Basketball team.  This is my first year coaching and its been really exciting and fun teaching them new skills and working with the kids. 

As always I've been playing lots of soccer as well as focusing on school. I am counting down the days until camp and can not wait too be a CIT! Around camp you'll find me instructing althetics and dsic golf.

More about Simon

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?: 

- A friend, Water ,and a pillow

Favorite special program at camp

- UN Day

Your favorite TV or movie character

- Josh Peck, from Drake and Josh 

Your best memory of camp

- Cheering at camp after completing our 10 day trip to Canada.

Favorite Sports Teams

- Redskins,Wizards,Baltimore Orioles,Capitals

What would you choose for your last meal?

- Steak and Fries

If you could be any animal, what would you be?

- Bald Eagle

 
Your two favorite books

- Lightning Thief,The Giver

A secret hobby or skill that you have?

- I play in Scrabble Tournaments.

How has camp impacted you? 

- Camp has had an extremely positive impact on me.I have made friends and experiences that will last a lifetime, and i look forward to making many more.

Staff Spotlight - Lucas Kasle

The youngest of three siblings, Lucas Kasle will join his middle brother (his favorite brother, mentor and role model) on staff. A graduating senior, Lucas is currently at Nicolet H.S. in Glendale, WI. There he showed off his considerable athletic prowess as a member of the swimming and tennis teams. He's also a big reading aficionado, preferring historical autobiographies 18th and 19th century political leaders. Lucas will head out east in the fall, attending Muhlenberg College in Pennsylvania. He's excited to be a  Muhlenberg Mule!

This will be his 9th summer at North Star. At camp you'll find him instructing climbing, and swimming!

More about Lucas

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?

-My brother Nick, a stuffed toy panda, and a toothbrush (I'm a big believer in good oral hygiene)

Favorite special program at camp

- The eco hunt

The Kasle Brothers

Your favorite TV or movie character

- The princess from Frozen

Your best memory of camp.

- Anything involving my brother, Nick

What would you choose for your last meal?

-  A buffet of ice cream

If you could be any animal, what would you be?

- A seal

Your favorite book

- Campingly Yours by Thomas C. Adler

A secret hobby or skill that you have?

- I've recently taken up Mahjong

Staff Spotlight - Ben Rubin

Hi, my name is Ben Rubin and I am currently a Junior at Highland Park High School. With ACTs, college visits, and other standardized tests, this has been a pretty busy year for me. At school, I am involved in Congressional Debate, DECA, and my school's robotics team. [Side note addition: I placed first Internationally in DECA and first in Illinois in robotics. I don't know if that should be thrown in there or not.]

This will be my seventh summer at camp and my first one on staff.  As a camper, I spent the majority of my time windsurfing and sailing, which I hope to teach at camp. Additionally, I will be working on the camper musical. I am very excited to be a CIT this summer!


More about Ben

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- I'd like to think that I would be practical and bring a boat, water, and a machete so I could survive, but in reality I would probably bring trivial items like a phone, a sleeping bag, and a change of clothes.

Favorite special program at camp
- Espionage

Your favorite TV or movie character
- Batman (Christian Bale, not any of the ones from the 80s or Ben Affleck)

Your best memory of camp.
- College Days last year. Go Slippery Rocks!

What would you choose for your last meal?
- Once again, I would like to think that I would choose something classy like steak, but it would

probably be pizza or bacon.

If you could be any animal, what would you be?
- The Mantis Shrimp. Hands down the coolest animal. Ever.

Your two favorite books
- Looking for Alaska by John Green and Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk

A secret hobby or skill that you have?
- I am very good at Indian Leg Wrestling.

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp made me a much more independent and responsible person. I feel that I have learned how to handle difficult and challenging situations and I have made several lifelong friends.

Staff Spotlight - Ronald Smith

Hey, I am Ronald Smith, from St Louis, MO. I'm finishing my sophomore year at John Burroughs High School. I love sports and the outdoors more  than anything. My favorite sport is football and at school I'm on the football and basketball team.

 I am a CIT this year and was a camper for three years before this. At camp you'll find me instructing athletics and archery.

More about Ronald

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?

-  I would take a book, sleeping bag, and a basketball court w/ basketball.

Favorite special program at camp

- The Green-White marathon.

Your favorite TV or movie character

-  Steve Urkel from Family Matters.

Favorite Sports Teams

- My favorite sports team is the Miami Heat.

If you could be any animal, what would you be?

- My spirit animal is a lion.

Your two favorite books

- My favorite books were To Kill A Mockingbird and Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry

How has camp impacted you?

- Camp has opened my eyes to many opportunities to explore nature.

Staff Spotlight - Philip Rasansky

Howdy! My name is Philip Rasansky, and I’m from Dallas, TX. This will be my 10th summer at camp (IT’S THE BIG TEN!!), and I am really excited to get back to the Northwoods! just graduated from Greenhill School a couple days ago, and I’ll be heading up to Dartmouth College next fall. I spend most of my time spending time with friends/family, doing school work, and playing sports (I’m on the varsity basketball and baseball teams). I am (or was, now that I’m an alum) also active in my school’s business club and peer mentoring program.

At camp I'll be instructing basketball, waterskiing and other athletics. 

More about Philip

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- Umbrella, Lawn chair, and a full Harry Potter book set

Favorite special program at camp
- United Nations Day, Friday Night Services

Your favorite TV or movie character
- Tickle from the Discovery show “Moonshiners"

Your best memory of camp.
- Most memorable: Getting lost on the Canadian trip because the tripper let a friend of mine lead us with the map. Best memory: Beating my twin brother in the Green-White marathon when we were both captains

Favorite Sports Teams
- Texas Rangers, Dallas Mavericks, Dallas Cowboys, and anything UT Longhorns

What would you choose for your last meal?
- Tie between steak and pizza

If you could be any animal, what would you be?

- A white bengal tiger

Your two favorite books
- A Long Way Gone by Ishmael Beah & Any of the Harry Potter books

A secret hobby or skill that you have?
- I can write in cursive backwards.

How has camp impacted you?
- This is a tough questions because I don’t think I can fit it all into a couple sentences. Overall, I think I am a more relaxed, confident person with a stronger sense of my values and morals because of all my years at North Star

Staff Spotlight - Jacob Byck

Jacob Byck returns to the North Star Staff. Hailing from Deerfield, IL, he's a junior at Deerfield High School. A big baseball fan and player, he's played travel baseball as well as on the DHS team. He's also active coaching and he started this year as an assistant baseball coach.

Jacob returns for his sixth summer at camp. He can be found on the athletic fields instructing our sporting activities.

 More about Jacob

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?

- North Star’s Cinnamon Rolls, North Star’s Bug Juice, and a sleeping bag.

Favorite special program at camp

- Espionage

Your favorite TV or movie character

- Two and a Half Men, Charlie Sheen

Your best memory of camp.

- Making great friends.

Favorite Sports Teams

- White Sox, Bulls, Bears, Michigan Wolverines

What would you choose for your last meal?

- Chicken Kiev

If you could be any animal, what would you be?

- A Jaguar

Your two favorite books

- Honus & Me, Boy in the Striped Pajamas

A secret hobby or skill that you have?

- I can burp excessively.

How has camp impacted you?

I learned how to be responsible for myself, and made friends I’ll never forget.

Staff Spotlight - Ike Nierman

Camp is a family thing Ike Nierman. One of is brothers is on the NSC staff and another is a camper. He's also a 2nd generation NSC camper and staff. His dad Peter was also a camper and staff. Ike comes to camp from Wilmette, IL where he's finishing up his sophomore year at New Trier H.S.

At New Trier Ike does pole vault for the track team and in his free time he plays the bass guitar and hang out with friends. At camp he'll be instructing athletics and pathfinders.

More about Ike

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?

-  My iPod for music, a journal and a camera

Favorite special program at camp

-  College Days

Your favorite TV or movie character

- Jake Peralta from Brooklyn Nine-Nine

Your best memory of camp.

- Too many to count, but on of the best was winning boil-water-boil during the Green-White marathon

Favorite Sports Teams

- Chicago Bulls, LA Clippers, Chicago White-Sox, And DAAA Bears

What would you choose for your last meal?

- Anything as long as it was followed by a Norske Nook Pie

If you could be any animal, what would you be?

- A Dolphin, they’re super smart, but really different from humans, plus everyone loves dolphins

Your two favorite books

- Things Fall Apart, The Catcher In The Rye

A secret hobby or skill that you have?

- I can throw a Frisbee with extreme accuracy

How has camp impacted you?

- It made me learn how to treat others with a lot of respect and never to judge anyone without getting to know them first. Also made me learn that life can be tough but it will always get better, especially with 

Staff Spotlight - Nick Rubnitz

After three years as a camper at North Star, we're excited to have Nicholas (aka Nick) Rubnitz join the North Star staff. Hailing from Chicago, IL, Nick is finishing up his sophomore year at Francis W. Parker High School. There he is on the varsity baseball team, playing center field.

He joins a great group of Counselors in Training. At camp you'll find Nick instructing softball and other athletics.

More about Nick

Favorite special program at camp

- All Camp Capture the Flag

Your best memory of camp

- Coming back from Canada

Favorite Sports Teams:

 - All Chicago Sports teams besides the White Sox

What would you choose for your last meal:

- Tacos

If you could be any animal, what would you be

- a Lion

Your two favorite books

- Harry Potter 7 + Heat

A secret hobby or skill that you have

- a Monster at Wii Tennis

How has camp impacted you

- It has taught me maturity and responsibility.

Staff Spotlight - Jacob Zionts

Jacob Zionts returns for his ninth summer at North Star. A native of Highland Park, IL, Jacob is completing his junior year at Highland Park High School.  There he's a pretty active guy. He's involved in DECA as well as congressional debate. He's been in several competitions for both this past year. Jacob is also an avid reader.

At camp, you can usually find Jacob on mountain biking, disc golf and wakeboarding.

More about Jacob

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?

- Assuming the deserted island is Teepee Island, I would bring a Fun-Yak (paddle included), a life-preserver (safety first!), which I would hang back up in the boat shed later, and hearty supply of Hudson-Bay bread to keep me full during my journey back to the mainland.

Favorite special program at camp

- Friday night services & Predator vs. Prey.

Your favorite TV or movie character

- TV: Ron Swanson of Parks and Recreation. Movies: Maximus Decimus Meridius—commander of the Armies of the North, General of the Felix Legions, loyal servant to the true emperor, Marcus Aurelius. Father to a murdered son, husband to a murdered wife. And he will have his vengeance, in this life or the next. Harry Callahan, Jules Winfield, Neo, and Darth Vader are all close behind.

Your best memory of camp.

- Can I say all of it?

Favorite Sports Teams

- Da Bears...Da Bulls!

What would you choose for your last meal?

- A 12 ounce medium-rare Filet Mignon.

If you could be any animal, what would you be?

- SelectSmart.com tells me that I am sort of claim, lark, peacock mix; however, I've always thought I am more of a grizzly bear type, but that might just be wishful thinking.

Your three favorite books

- Watership Down, by Richard Adams, Because of Winn Dixie, by Kate DiCamillo &; Beloved, by Toni Morrison.

A secret hobby or skill that you have?

- I'm not sure if this qualifies as hobby or skill, but I have a rather extensive sticker collection. Also, I like to consider myself in the elite class LEGO builders.

How has camp impacted you?

- Camp has taught me how to be open-minded, adventurous, and sympathetic. It has helped me forge a deep bond and appreciation for nature, and, most importantly, camp has taught me to love myself for who I am.

Staff Spotlight - Nick Kasle

Nick Kasle joins us for summer number nine.  A native of River Hills, Wisconsin, Nick just completed his sophomore year at High Point University in North Carolina. There he's majoring in physics. In his spare time he likes to go swimming and watch soccer. He's a big fan of FIFA and while he used to take on Oliver Rockman, he was tired of losing. Nick and Oliver are now a team and regularly defeat random people. He takes every opportunity to head to Evanston, IL to visit Andy Rodheim.

Nick just got back from a birthright trip to Israel. He headed there with Oliver and Zach Blumenfeld. At camp Nick can be found on Waterskiing and in the Arts and Crafts.

More about Nick

 If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- A soccer ball (to occupy my time), an Encyclopedia (to become a genius), and swim goggles (to swim in the ocean with)

Favorite special program at camp
- Predator vs. Prey

Your favorite TV or movie character
-0Vincent Chase from Entourage

Your best memory of camp.
- Having a pizza party/sleeping in the Tee-Pee my Pine-Manor year

Favorite Sports Teams
- Tottenham Hotspurs, River Plate, Green Bay Packers

What would you choose for your last meal?
- Pizza

If you could be any animal, what would you be?
- A camel

Your two favorite books
- Oh, The Places You'll Go! and The Lorax

A secret hobby or skill that you have?
- A hobby is swimming, I joined my school swim team. A skill is beating Oliver in FIFA.

How has camp impacted you?
- My best friends are all from camp and it has given me the best summers for the past 7 years. Im hoping for another 7 great summers ahead.

Staff Spotlight - Ned Shashoua

Ned Shashoua returns to North Star for summer number nine. A native of Boca Raton, FL, he's graduating from Pine Crest High School. There he's on the tennis team and in his spare time he likes playing  guitar and hanging out at the beach. He'll give up the warm Florida temps in the fall when he heads off to Northwestern University in Evanston, IL.

At camp you're likely to find Ned instructing tennis, disc golf and waterskiing. We're excited to have Ned back! 

More about Ned

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?

- A bottle of tabasco, a TV, and a jacuzzi

Favorite special program at camp

- My favorite special program is Glenn's Game

Your favorite TV or movie character

- Brick from Anchorman

Your best memory of camp.

- Being a UN Day captain back in 2008. I was the Junior captain for Team Morocco
and although we didn't win I had an absolute blast getting all painted up and supporting my teammates.

Favorite Sports Teams

- The Bears, Cubs, and Heat (Dad's from Chicago but couldn't help jumping on the Heat bandwagon
when Lebron came down)

What would you choose for your last meal?

- A surf n' turf steak and lobster tail dish as a main course and then a slice of raspberry cream cheese
Norske Nook pie for desert.

If you could be any animal, what would you be?

- I would be grizzly bear.

Your two favorite books

- Moneyball and The Things they Carried

A secret hobby or skill that you have?

-  I am a pretty good ping pong player

How has camp impacted you? 

- Camp has impacted my life in a tremendous way. It has definitely helped me mature as a person and has also allowed me to make friendships that will last a lifetime.

Staff Spotlight - Nick Hill

Nick Hill was born in South Bend, Indiana and is a senior at Indiana University. With Interests in Business, and fine arts, nick is a general studies major with a knack for outdoor education. Through his many trips to Colorado as a young child, he has developed a love for the outdoors in which he spends most of his time. His interests include backpacking, Mountain biking, paddling, and underwater basket weaving.

He has hiked extensively through north carolina, Kentucky, Tennessee, Colorado, Utah, and most recently Oregon. He previously worked as a diesel mechanic in South Bend where he learned to fix anything from pink tricycles to heavy machinery.

More about Nick

What is your dream job

- My dream job is to someday race rally cars. that has been a dream of mine and my codrivers since early high school.

A secret hobby or skill that you have?

- A secret hobby of mine is that i enjoy creating unique ceramic pieces either on the wheel, or hand built. This is something that i have been able to expand on in my studies at IU.

Your favorite TV character

- Given that I don't watch a lot of TV, but do get to watch some movies, i would have to say my favorite Movie character would be Ace Ventura, because humor plays a major roll in my life.

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?

- If i were stranded on an island, the first thing i would bring would be the essentials to stay alive such as thermal layers to protect from weather, materials to make an emergency shelter plus fire starter. Then i would bring with me the means to play music (music box) and one album. This album would either be Red hot chilli peppers, alt-j, pink floyd dark side of the moon.. not sure. To many to choose from.

How did you learn about North Star and why did you apply?

- I learned of camp North Star through first applying to camp Timberline. Things didn't work out there, so they sent my application into Camp North Star, and so the process began. After i had interviewed with Dan, i knew that this would be the kind of environment that i wanted to be in.

 I applied to work as a tripper this summer to use the skill set that i have learned through my last semester in CORE.

Favorite Sports Teams

- I don't have a favorite sports team, but was part of a competitive paintball league in my younger years. The professional team that i looked up to the most was team dynasty. 

What noteworthy/random/menial jobs have you held?

- As far as jobs go, I have worked as a mechanic nearly all my professional life. This has taught me patients that no matter what happens, things can always get worse, and to appreciate and celebrate when things are going smoothly.

What did you do last summer?

- Last summer i was hired as a part time extended hand to demo around 6 acres of trees. Alot of hard work was put in, but had a blast running heavy machinery, and chainsaws.

And lastly, this will not only be the first summer, but the first time ever working in a camp environment. I am stoked to see what North Star is all about and build a community of friends!

Staff Spotlight - Forest Lemon

Forest Lemon returns to North Star for his second summer. He's from a small town in East Texas called  Nacogdoches. He and his family grew up off the grid, without electricity, television and other amenities. He actually built his house at the age of nine (with the help of his dad).

He's just finished his sophomore year at the University of Arkansas where he's majoring in mechanical engineering. In his spare time he likes to rock climbing and is an avid fisherman. The outdoors is a passion of his and he's done quite a bit of trip leading, working in Atikokan, Ontario leading trips two summers ago for Northern Tier in Quetico. We're lucky to have Forest back as a wilderness trip leader.

More about Forest

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- Fishing gear,  H2O and Matches

Favorite special program at camp
- As a trip leader I love the trips!

Your favorite TV or movie character
- Jerry from Tom and Jerry

Your best memory of camp.
- My Canadian experience was all that I could have asked for

Favorite Sports Teams
- Dallas Mavericks and Arkansas Razorbacks

What would you choose for your last meal?
- Steak and fresh vegetables

If you could be any animal, what would you be?
- A Hawk

Your two favorite books
- My Fathers Dragon and Hatchet

A secret hobby or skill that you have?
- I play the fiddle

How has camp impacted you?
- North Star has given my something to look forward too

Staff Spotlight - Daniel Levine

My name is Daniel, and I'm currently a junior in high school at Francis W. Parker School in Chicago.  This summer will be my 8th summer at North Star and 2nd on staff.  At school, I'm the sports editor of my school's newspaper and the captain of the tennis team. I've been playing doubles and hoping to make it to State this year! 

At camp, I'll probably be at the tennis courts or over by waterskiing, which were my two favorite activities when I was a camper.  Looking forward to this summer!

More about Daniel

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?

- I'd bring a good bed (with pillows included), an endlessly charged iPod and a lot of food.

Favorite special program at camp

- Glenn's Game. 

Your favorite TV or movie character

- Tom Haverford from Parks and Recreation

Your best memory of camp.

- My best memory was during my Canadian when we took a layover day after 6 days of paddling, and lied out by the rocks, rested and recovered, and ate a lot food. 

Favorite Sports Teams

- Cubs, Bears, Bulls, Blackhawks, Northwestern Football (Go Cats!) and University of Wisconsin Football and Basketball

What would you choose for your last meal?

- A lot of steak and fries. 

If you could be any animal, what would you be?

- I would be a dog. 

Your two favorite books

- A Long Way Gone by Ishmael Beah and The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

A secret hobby or skill that you have?

- I am double-jointed in just my left thumb, pinky and pinky toe. 

How has camp impacted you?

- Camp has allowed me to participate in new experiences, meet so many new friends, and make a lot of great memories. 

Staff Spotlight - Kathy Luy

We're excited to have Kathy Luy back at camp this summer. A native of Brookfield, WI, she just finished up her junior year at the University of Wisconsin - Madison where she's in the secondary education program. When she's not studying, she's keeping busy playing soccer for a club team, leading a bible study and training for running races.

This will be Kathy's second summer at North Star. She's one of two Kathy's who helps out running the office and also spends time on the waterfront instructing waterskiing. 

More about Kathy

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- I would bring a ukulele (and then learn to play it), an ax (to chop trees for fire and log
rolling), and an American Flag (to claim to the territory).
 
Favorite special program at camp
 - My favorite special program is UN Day
 
Your favorite TV or movie character
 - My favorite movie character is Katniss Everdeen.

Your best memory of camp.
- Getting up early to participate in the polar bear club and singing the polar bear song super loud!

Favorite Sports Teams
- Green Bay Packers (duh), The Wisconsin Badgers, Chelsea FC and
then obviously The United States for any international competitions.

What would you choose for your last meal?
- New York strip steak with grilled mushrooms and onions, a side of mashed potatoes and peas and then my mom’s homemade apple pie for dessert.

If you could be any animal, what would you be?

- I would be an eagle, so I could fly and see all the beauty in nature.

Your two favorite books
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows and Green Eggs and Ham

A secret hobby or skill that you have?
- I enjoy doing pushups, decorating cakes, and longboarding.
 
How has camp impacted you?
 - Camp has helped me appreciate the little things, like loon calls and the billions of stars you can see on clear nights. It has also shown me the beauty of friendship. To see 100 strangers become best friends in the span of 4 weeks is a true gift.

Staff Spotlight - David Glass

David Glass returns to camp for his eighth summer. A native of Highland Park, IL, David is finishing up his junior year at Highland Park High School. He’s very involved in volunteering and he spent time this year working with students at Indian Trail Elementary school who have learning disabilities and language barriers.

We’re excited to have David back. Around camp you’re likely to find him instructing sailing and climbing. He’ll also be helping out on biking, windsurfing and theater games.

More about David

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- I would bring a tent, clean water, and a fishing rod so I could utilize my survival skills.

Favorite special program at camp
- Glen’s game. It is a game of speed where campers try to achieve locations around camp without being stopped by the counselors.

Your favorite TV or movie character
- Sponge Bob Square Pants. He is just such a goofy guy but takes on responsibility for himself and a pet. We should all strive to be like him.

Your best memory of camp.
- the first time I climbed to the top of the climbing wall. I hope everyone else who signs up can get to the top also.

Favorite Sports Teams
- My favorite sports teams are all from Chicago. I like the Black Hawks, the Bears, the Bulls, and as far as baseball goes, I am a Cubs fan.

What would you choose for your last meal?
- King crab legs served chilled with melted butter.

If you could be any animal, what would you be?
- I would be a dog. I always get jealous of my dogs when I leave for school in the morning and they get to lie in bed.


Your two favorite books
- My favorite book series is the Percy Jackson series. My favorite individual book is Sam Walton’s Bibliography.

A secret hobby or skill that you have?
- Very strong mental math skills.

How has camp impacted you?
- Camp has completely impacted my life on so many levels.  The greatest thing I have taken away is how to have fun. There is a story that Andy Shlensky likes to tell. He was showing the camp to a family and they didn’t believe that we could have an environment where kids could be competitive during games and still maintain good sportsmanship. Andy took them to the Athletic field where every boy was dripping with sweat and running as hard as they could. Andy proceeded to ask what the score was and not a single boy was able to answer. They were so consumed in the game they didn’t even know who was winning. This is the way that I play sports all of the time and I think it is the right way to play. Everyone truly is a winner at North Star. I hope to see many new and old faces this summer at camp. It will be the greatest summer yet!

Staff Spotlight - Christopher Rodriguez

Christopher Rodriguez joins us for his second summer. A trip leader in 2013, he'll serve as the director of our trip program this summer. Christopher is originally from Fort Worth, Texas but has lived in Nacogdoches for 7 of the last nine years. He just graduated From Stephen F Austin University and he wants everyone to know that their mascot is the Lumberjack. At SFAU he was a trips logistics manager of the Outdoor Pursuits program. In that role he oversaw trip leaders, was in charge of logistics for the program and also led trips. 

He's a big sports fan but unfortunately he didn't get to see SFAU's big March Madness win over VCU because he was visiting his niece who wanted to watch Frozen. He's also a big baseball fan, cheering on the Texas Rangers and is always up for checking out a new ballpark. 

More about Christopher

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are three things you'd bring?
- A really good book, guitar, and lighter.

Favorite special program at camp
- Tripping Program!

Your favorite TV or movie character
- Benjamin Button

Your best memory of camp.
- Meeting so many great people, co-workers and campers!

Favorite Sports Teams
- Texas Rangers, San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Mavericks and the Dallas Stars

What would you choose for your last meal?
- My mom's homemade chicken enchiladas

If you could be any animal, what would you be?
- Easy, a Panda Bear

Your two favorite books
- Better Off by Eric Brende and Dances With Wolves by Michael Blake

A secret hobby or skill that you have?
- No secrets from this guy.

How has camp impacted you?
- In just one summer, North Star helped me build upon my professional and personal experience. I love meeting new people and that's exactly what I got to do all summer long. I'm looking forward to learning a lot more about the people I will be working with this summer!