docthe birch log - Camp Olson YMCA
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the birch log - Camp Olson YMCA
S O N Y MC A L O P M A C THE BIRCH LOG Volume LIII A Newsletter for the Camp Olson Family Fall 2015 Welcome Lindsey Abrahams – New Camp Director Greetings Camp Olson YMCA Family My name is Lindsey Abrahams and I have just taken over as the Camp Director of Camp Olson YMCA. I am honored to have been chosen for this role. My love for camping began my first summer as a Camp Olson camper in 1998. Since then I have returned to camping every summer in a variety of capacities. My first summer on staff was in 2002 when I completed the Junior Counselor program and stayed on to work Family Camp. Over the years I wanted to take on more responsibility and was able to do so as the Craft Shop Director, Corral Director, CIT Leader and Program Director. While spending my summers working at camp I attended Northern Arizona University and received my degree in Education. After graduating I worked in school systems from 2008-2012. This provided me with invaluable experience and the ability to return to camp in the summers. Working in education has given me a unique perspective on camping and has provided me with many tools to effectively work with campers as well as their families. I worked at Camp Olson for a total of 11 summers before pursuing my goal of a year round career in camping by leaving to work for the YMCA of the Greater Twin Cities (YGTC). Through the YGTC I was able to obtain the Camp Director position at YMCA Camp Icaghowan. From 2012 to 2015 I worked hard to learn everything I could and to ensure that Camp Icaghowan was all that it could be. It is sad to be leaving Camp Icaghowan but I truly feel as if I am returning home. With 14 years of camping experience I am thrilled to be returning with new knowledge and experience to work with you and the Camp Olson Family. Please know that I am available with any questions or concerns you may have. I look forward to working with you! Dear Alumni and Friends, Over the next few months the Camp Olson YMCA Board of Directors and leadership staff will be calling upon you for your support in the largest capital campaign in our history. Thank you in advance for listening to our appeals and donating generously as we prepare camp for future generations. Russell Link Executive Director Camp Olson YMCA welcomes Lindsey and her husband Mark back to Camp Olson. Mark has also worked at camp, spending two summers on our maintenance staff. Mark is a civil engineer with a Twin Cities based engineering firm. The Birch Log Page 2 The Birch Log Page 3 President’s Message ~ Lucy Bahn Bursts of fall color have reached their peak at Camp Olson and mark the close of a tremendous summer. The vital experiences of so many campers, friends, and families, will remain as enduring memories. Successfully serving a record 1238 Camper Weeks does not happen spontaneously. The incredible work of our dedicated staff and volunteers make it all possible. A special thank you goes to departing Camp Director Colton Altobell, who served at Camp Olson as a talented and capable leader for 10 years. We will miss his positive presence and recognize his terrific contributions to program and staff development. The board wishes Colton and his family continued excellence. We welcome Lindsey Abrahams as the new Camp Director. Together with a longstanding commitment to Camp Olson, Lindsey brings fresh energy, staff continuity, creative direction, and proven leadership to Camp as we prepare for future seasons. (3)60 Campaign Co-Chairs Margret Swanson and Todd Schwartz. (3)60 Campaign: It’s Time to Step Up We are in full swing for the (3)60 Campaign. Pledges and gifts have reached $1,140,000 to date, nearly attaining our groundbreaking goal of $1.5 million. And we are only just beginning to reach out to all of our friends and partners. Camp Olson will focus on growing quality and specialty programming. Please remember your own camp experience and share that with future campers in a tangible way. The capital campaign to support the renovation of the Dining Hall, a new Kitchen and the replacement for our beloved/time-worn Palace is making great progress. We need $560,000 in gifts and pledges right now so we can confidently break ground on these projects by fall 2016. We need more than that to meet our goal to build the endowment to more than $1 million, creating a base for Camp’s future. As winter settles over the Northwoods, Camp Olson won’t be dormant. We are busily preparing for next spring and, with the (3)60 Campaign, we are working hard to maintain marvelous facilities, undiminished natural beauty, and unique experiences for all. Camp Olson has received more than $1,140,000 in gifts and pledges toward its $2.5 million goal. We’ve made great progress and now we turn to the entire Camp community to step up with a gift that will carry Camp Olson into its next 60 years. With Best Wishes, We need everyone to participate. Whether you give $50, $500, $5,000, $50,000, more or less, this is when we need you to make a gift or pledge. We will be in touch shortly and we hope you will join us in giving until it feels good. No matter how Camp Olson has touched you — as a camper, staff member, parent, family member, or friend — now is how you can pay it forward. You are investing in how Camp Olson can change the life of a child in the most positive way. Forever. Lucy Bahn President Camp Olson YMCA Board of Directors The Camp Olson YMCA Board of Directors with gratitude extend their heartfelt thanks for your past, present and future support for youth, leadership and our camping programs. Camp Olson YMCA Board Members volunteer their time and talents to support the achievement of our mission. Camp Olson YMCA 2015 Board of Directors Lucy Bahn – President – Rochester, MN 3rd year Thomas Shepard – Vice President – Mpls, MN 3rd year Betsy Furman – Secretary - St. Paul, MN 5th year Julianne Davis – Duluth, MN 2nd year Andy Edin – Winona, MN 5th year Megan Frank – Rochester, MN 1st year Michael Holmes – Rochester, MN 2nd year Nancy Huizenga – St. Paul, MN 2nd year Lori Jonason – Minneapolis, MN 1st year Erik Julsrud – Duluth, MN 2nd year Sean Kempke – Duluth, MN 1st year Lee Rieth – Overland Park, KS 3rd year Dave Rogers – Chillicothe, MO 1st year Kent Sall – St. Paul, MN 3rd year Rick Smith – Rochester, MN 5th year Michael Titus – Elizabeth, CO, 1st year Andy Wood – Rochester, MN 2nd year The designs for the Dining Hall Kitchen renovation and new Place are worth seeing and hearing about. We are eager to share these details with you and talk to you about what your investment will do for Camp Olson. Please join us in contributing to the (3)60 Campaign. Margret Swanson and Todd Schwartz (3)60 Campaign Co-Chairs A representative from Camp Olson YMCA may be calling you this year to arrange a visit to discuss your participation in the (3)60 campaign. We hope all are willing to listen and invest in camp’s future. New Kitchen with Dining Hall Improvements New Bathhouse Endowment $1,100,000 $ 400,000 $1,000,000 For more information about the (3)60 campaign please visit our website campolson.org or contact Russ Link, Executive Director at 218-363-2207 or [email protected] The Birch Log Page 4 The Camp Olson YMCA fiscal year is from October 1- September 30. This list represents annual and scholarship gifts and pledges received from October 1, 2014 – September 30, 2015. With gratitude, we extend our thanks to those who have contributed financially to benefit our camping programs. Spanier, Maureen – St. Cloud, MN Stettler, Todd & Sue – Eyota, MN Streit, Peter & Karen – Rochester, MN Tharp, Michael & Julia – Little Rock, AR Wm. Miller Scrap Iron & Metal – Winona, MN Woodworth, Pete & Joyce – Winona, MN YMCA of Austin – Austin, MN Wong, Jeff & Pam Olson – Middleton, WI Woodworth, Jacob & Nora – Longville, MN Woodworth, Lindsey – Maple Plain, MN The Birch Log Wood, Andrew – Rochester, MN Woodworth, Nathan & Becky Winona, MN We sincerely apologize if we omitted your name. Please call the camp office so we may make the necessary corrections. Pioneer Level ~ $2,500 + 2015 Summer Staff Members Card, Randy & Kristi Elliott Ironton, MN Kempke, Sean & Ivy Wood – Duluth, MN Longville Area Community Foundation – Longville, MN Longville Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce-- Longville, MN Mayo Clinic Foundation – Rochester, MN Rieth, Jim & Theresa – Spicer, MN Sanger, Steve & Karen – Wayzata, MN Shepard, Peter & Megan Perkins -- Santa Fe, NM Wallin, Brooks – Paris, France Wallin Foundaton – Minneapolis, MN YMCA of the USA Strategic Initiatives Fund Trailblazer Level ~ $1,000- $2,499 Anchorage Inn – Longville, MN Backlund, Jim & Theresa – Rochester, MN Brown, Mary – Minneapolis, MN Bahn, Mark & Lucy – Rochester, MN Crow Wing Power Community Trust – Brainerd, MN Estry, Dick & Kathy – Rochester, MN Hanna, Patrick – Salt Lake City, UT Hansen, William – Longville, MN Hughes, Holly – Maplewood, MO Lake Country Power – Mountain Iron, MN Miller, Jes & Wil – Winona, MN Palmer, Susan – Rochester, MN Perkins Foundation – Wayzata, MN Recknor, Lee & Betty Jean Rochester, MN Schwartz, Todd & Nancy, Urbandale, IA Sorenson, Eric & Kristen – Rochester, MN Explorer Level ~ $100-$249 Discoverer Level ~ $250-$499 Voyager Level ~ $500-$999 Biesanz, Scott & Jane – Winona, MN Brown, Frank & Alice – St. Cloud, MN Brown, Bill & Lynn – Edina, MN Bornstein, Susan & Peter – North Oaks, MN Chamberlain, Phil & Eunice Hill – Cornville, AZ Cuthbert, Neal & Louise Robinson Minneapolis, MN Cutlip, George – Madison, WI Davis, Nick & Julianne – Duluth, MN DeWispelaere, Laurie & Jay Johnson Glenallen, AK Edin, Andrew & Becky – Winona, MN Elliott, Bill & Jan – Longville, MN Evans, Wayne & Ellen – Tucson, AZ Feeser, Hollis – Rochester, MN Fellenz, Terry & LorRae – Fall Creek, WI FineLine Finish Trim, Inc – Eyota, MN Fleming, Kevin & Mari – Rochester, MN Frank, Aaron & Megan – Rochester, MN Furman, Betsy – St. Paul, MN Greer, Joyce – Zumbro Falls, MN Gross, Shelly & Chad – Freeport, MN Hankel, Lindy & Tim Moynihan – Rochester, MN Haus, Michael & Cindy – Prior Lake, MN Hill, Steven & Betsy – Kirkwood, MO Holmes, Mike & Leah -- Rochester, MN Huizenga, Charles – Berkeley, CA Lenoir, Martin & Susan – Santa Ana, CA Link, Russell & Jolene – Longville, MN Longville Lions Club – Longville, MN Nartovich, Natalia & Alexsandr – Rochester, MN Palmer, Shaun – Rochester, MN Russell, Stephen & Janey – Rochester, MN Shepard, Chuck & Judy – Winona, MN Sorenson, Eric & Kristin – Rochester, MN Stafford, Scott & Jacki – Rochester Stettler, Todd & Sue – Eyota, MN Steward, Patrick – Rochester, MN Swanson, Margret – Mahtomedi, MN Thomson, Curt & Dana – Peyton, CO Tjaden, Jacob – St. Paul, MN Uhlenhopp, John – Santa Fe, NM Anderson, Gail – Rochester, MN Arenberg, Daniel & Deborah – Lemont, IL Augustine, John & Bobbi – Guttenberg, NJ Butler, Jordan – Plymouth, MN Card, Norm and Kathy – Federal Dam, MN Carey, Richard & Jean – Nisswa, MN Covington Schwartz, Hope – St. Paul, MN Dillard, Tyler – Killeen, TX Esser, Andrew & Kim – LaCrescent, MN Fritz, Randall & Dorothea – Rochester, MN Greer, Marlen & Joyce – Zumbro Falls, MN Hansen, Bill & Laura – Longville, MN Hartson, George – Minneapolis, MN Hersch, Janene – Edina, MN Hoban, Tom & Susan – Fridley, MN Huizenga, Nancy – St. Paul, MN Matenaer, Kristine & David – St. Paul, MN Melton, LJ & Jane – Rochester, MN Merchants Bank – Rochester, MN Miclau, Ted & Kirsten – San Francisco, CA Miner, Jerome – Duluth, MN Mitchell, Marvin – Rochester, MN Munden, Don & Melody – Albert Lea, MN Naugle, Meg & Pete – Walker, MN Qualey, Marsha & Dave – Eau Claire, WI Rieth, David & Susan – Tampa, FL Rieth, Doug & Julie – Spartanburg, SC Rieth, Lee & Alissa – Overland Park, KS Ryan, Catherine & Mike VonMuchow – LaCrosse, WI Schwartz, Charles & Hope -St. Paul, MN Sholtz, Peter & Jane – Hopkins, MN Smith, Rick -- Rochester, MN Stifel Nicolaus – Rochester, MN Street, Julie – Rochester, MN Teneyck, Dave & Lisa Wigand -Pillager, MN Thompson, Brandi – Elmwood, WI Van Nelson, Robert & Carolyn – Minn., MN Wilson, Linda – Rochester, MN Windebank, Anthony – Zumbro Falls, MN Adkins, Mark & Shirlyn – Rochester,MN Altobell, Steve – Fountain City, WI Arvig Communications – Perham, MN Barsness, Lawrence & Sharon —Rochester, MN Beard, Adam & Norma – Austin, MN Bendsen, Ched – Oak Park, IL Biesanz, Nick – Winona, MN Blegen, Dave & Peggy – Rochester, MN Brown, Ken & Lucy – St. Anthony, MN Bures, Frank & Ruth – Winona, MN Butler, Lynnette – Plymouth, MN Carpenter, Jerry & Jan – Longville, MN Carpenter, Scott & Karen – Longville, MN Cartney, Joe & Sharleen – Byron, MN Chapman, Craig & Tara – Winfield, IL Charpentier, Don & Carol – Longville, MN Chisolm, Jane – Atlanta, GA Clowers, David – Sturgeon Bay, WI Condon, John & Stephanie Golden Valley, MN Cramer, Carl & Angela – Rochester, MN Dale, Charlie & Katie – Fox Island, WA Donaldson, Jim & Leigh – Morgan Hills, CA Edstrom, Frances – Winona, MN Eilers, Angie & Mark – St. Louis Park, MN Eilers, Curt & Jodie – Marion, IA First Nat’l Bank of Walker – Walker, MN Forslund, Robert – Inver Grove, MN Franklin, Joan & Daryl – Austin, MN Fritz, Carolyn – Grand Marais, MN Geerdes, Gregg & Pam – Rochester, MN Geist, David – Northfield, MN Gilkinson, James & Julianna – Rochester, MN Goellner, John & Annette – Rochester MN Hagan, Mickaela – Madison, WI Hanna, Matt & Melissa – Chanhassen, MN Hansen, Jay & Nicole – Rochester, MN Hauser, Katherine – Minneapolis, MN Hayden, Becky & David – Breezy Point, MN Harris, Wayne – Rochester, MN Hazama, Charles – Rochester, MN Hazelton, Beth & Vance – Ashland, WI Huizenga, Hugh & Vicotria Fish - Norwich, VT Page 5 Johnston, Stuart & Carol – Decorah, IA Julsrud, Erik & Jennifer – Duluth, MN Kerr, Don & Phyllis – Blaine, MN Khan, Michael & Ann Long – St. Paul Kierlin, Robert – Winona, MN Kramer, Christopher – Minneapolis, MN Kramer, Kay & Dan – St. Anthony, MN Lantz, Chuck & Vickie – Rochester, MN Larson, Tim & Sarah – Rochester, MN Letsche, Tom & Amy – Cherokee, IA Lichty, Betsy – Lakewood, CO Litzow, Mark & Kris – Rochester, MN Litin, Scott – Rochester, MN Long, Ann – St. Paul, MN Longville Area Women of Today - Longville, MN Lutz, Janice – Fremont, NE Mahon, Jay & Dawn – Duluth, MN Mahon, Tom & Carol – Rochester, MN Malinchoc, Michael – Rochester, MN Munden, Donald & Melody – Albert Lea, MN Nielsen, Skott & Josey – Barnum, MN Noerenberg, Jean – Plymouth, MN Nordquist, Alan & Sandy – Apple Valley, MN Raasch, Don & Elisabeth Maple Grove, MN Rasmussen, Dave & Mary – Fargo, ND Recknor, Glen – Rochester, MN Richardson, Allen & Colleen – St Paul Rogers, Chris – Goodview, MN Rogers, Dave & Marty – Chillicothe, MO Rohrbaugh, Leon & Britt – Duluth, MN Schrom, Cheryl & Rob - Grand Rapids, MN Sheridan, Linda & Paul -Deer Harbor, WA Shriver, Brian & Christine - Maplewood, MN Silber, Michael & Sandra – Rochester Smithson, Tony & Judy – Rochester Spanier, Matt – Portland, MA Spiten, Sue – Winona, MN Stettler, Todd & Sue – Eyota, MN Sullivan, Tim & Amy – Orono, MN Tauxe, Rob & Cyn – Atlanta,GA Thompson, Brandi – Elmwood, WI Trippel, Sally – Rochester, MN Tufvesson, Peter & Mary – Winona, MN Vanlaningham, Glenn & Ella Utz, Mark & Julia – Rochester, MN Van Straaten, Mike & Meegan - Rochester, MN Waide, Susan – Winona, MN Washburn, Fran & Katherine - Rochester, MN Waugh, John & Gracy Marine on St. Croix, MN Wayne-Bruton, Shelley – Abilene, TX Westendorf, Rebecca – Rochester, MN Windebank, Sharon – Rochester, MN Young Walser, Robert & Julie -Minneapolis, MN Ytterberg, Ellen – Washington, DC Pathfinder Level ~ $1-$99 Altobell, Colton & Caitlin – Longville, MN Anderson, Terri – Plymouth, MN Anonymous Arnquist, Kit & Tim – Boy River, MN Bakken, Amanda – Evanston, IL Benscoter, Walter & Kathryn – Rochester, MN Bergen, Judi & Dick – Austin, MN Brown, Laura – Shoreview, MN Butler, Christopher – Rochester, MN Burton, Randy & Barb – Rochester, MN Cachiaras, John & Dorothy – Rochester, MN Calderone, Rebecca – Plymouth, MN Capezzuto, Risa – Minneapolis, MN Davis, Katie – Duluth, MN Dockerty, John & Diane – Rochester, MN Espeset, Paul & Pat – Rochester, MN Ewoldt, Russ & Bette – Plymouth, MN Felton, Carolyn – Winona, MN Flohaug, Greg & Kelsi – Coon Rapids, MN Fujimori, Maureen & Taro – Shrewsbury, MA Hahn, Anne – Bedford, IN Haider, Michael & Patricia – Pine Island, MN Harberts, Dale & Jane – Rochester, MN Haugen, David – St. Paul, MN Hayden, Elizabeth – Breezy Point, MN Hazelton, Beth & Vance – Washburn, WI Hepper, Norm & Charmaine – Rochester, MN Heyne, George & Carolyn – Rochester, MN Huizenga, Carolyn – Oak Lawn, IL Hunter, Melissa – Oakdale, MN Johnson, Bernt – Bethesda, MD Johnson, Gunnar – Duluth, MN Johnson, Lowell & Barbara – Northfield, MN Jonason, Kristin – Minneapolis, MN Joyce, Robert & Diane – Rochester, MN Kapler, Demarie – Sandy, UT Kennedy, Kathleen – St. Paul, MN Krage, Susan & Pat – Grand Marais, MN Leingang, Lyndsay – Duluth, MN Link, Connor – Longville, MN Link, Micah – Longville, MN Matenaer, Anna – St. Paul, MN Mayer, Stan & Amy – Rochester, MN McGowan, Jim & Maren – St. Paul, MN Munger, Janet – Rochester, MN Nartovich, Katia – Duluth, MN Native American Rainbow Network Noerenberg, Jean – Golden Valley, MN Pearson, Kristin – Brunswick, ME Petters, Jon & Colleen – Avon, MN Ries, Adam – Duluth, MN Rogers, Stephanie – Minneapolis, MN Schwartz, Hope – St. Paul, MN The Birch Log Page 6 Sedgwick, Linda – Minnetonka, MN Shriver, Brian – Maplewood, MN Simpson, Bill & Beverly – Sioux Falls, SD Smith, Tom & Karen – Littleton, CO Sumption, John & Lissa – Longville, MN Swanson, Peter – San Francisco, CA Sweeney, Kathy – Longville, MN Taylor, Paul Wm. – Whitefish, MT Timmons, Catherine – Farmington Hills, MI Tretsven, Dave & Deb – Falcon Heights, MN Two Point Gun Club – Grand Rapids, MN Unterholzner, Laura – Rochester, MN Wheeler, Jessica – Redwing, MN Wick, Al & Patricia – Rochester, MN Wish List Gifts $2,500-$4,999 Spanier, Maureen – St. Cloud, MN $1,000-$2,499 Card, Randy & Kristi Elliott – Ironton, MN Furman, Elizabeth – St. Paul, MN Rich, Janet – Rochester, MN $500-$999 Palmer, Shaun – Rochester, MN Tharp, Susan – Arlington Heights, IL Wood, Andy – Rochester, MN $250-$499 Edin, Andrew & Becky – Winona, MN Stettler, Sue – Eyota, MN $100-$249 Memorial & Honor Gifts Ackman, Terry & Karen Wolfe -- Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Angelo, Bob & Sharon – Sedona, AZ In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Anonymous In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Antonson, Stan & Janet – Stewartville, MN In Honor of Jay, Jacob & Owen Mahon Armstrong, Frank & Linda – Oronoco, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Aylsworth, Steve & Carol – Chatfield, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Aylsworth, Wes & Jessie – Lorreto, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Baartman, Randy & Betsy – Pine Island, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Ballinger, Pat – Racine, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Barnhart, Tom & Linda – Port Charlotte, FL In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Bauman, Ken & Elaine – Byron, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Bazey, John & Diane – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Betcher, Madelyn – Stewartville, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Bradley, Suzanna – Mesa, AZ In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Brown, Phyllis – Fort, IN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Buck, David & Katherine – Dennison, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Card, Norm & Kathy – Federal Dam, MN In Honor of Kristi Elliott & Randy Card Case, Elaine & Bill Wiktor – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Caucutt, Greg – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Clowers, David – Sturgeon Bay, WI In Memory of Max Clowers Coon, James & Joanna – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Cooper, Don & Dawn – Spring Valley, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Cooper, Dorothy – Rochester, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Davis, Kathy – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Dening, Michael & Maria Pellew-Harvey -- Richmond, VA In Honor of Jim Rieth’s Birthday Dodge, Brian, Kami & Eric – Waunakee, WI In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Dodge, Larry & Joanne – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Eikelburg, Stu & Diana – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Eikenhorst, Family – Minong, WI In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Eikenhorst, Orval & Esther – Le Mars, IA In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Elliott, Bill & Jan – Longville, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Estry, Dick & Kathy – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Fellenz, Terry & LorRae – Fall Creek, WI In Memory of Sue Robinson In Memory of Harriet Kirkham In Memory of Betty Finder In Memory of Len Madsen In Memory of Roger DeMars In Memory of Veronica Garrison In Memory of Kathleen Mueller In Memory of Robert Fontana In Memory of Bayliss Swanson Fenlon, Margaret – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Fisher, Keith – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Foote, Molly – Bellingham, WA In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Friedrich, Brian & Kristine – Austin, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Garbisch, Mark & Brenda – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Glover, Marlys & Sharon Justin- St. Charles, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Haugen, David – St. Paul, MN In Honor of Mark & Lucy Bahn Heiser, Joann and Richard – New Brighton, MN In memory of Phil Chamberlain Herron, Tom and Jaclynn – New Brighton, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Hoversten, David & Nancy – Austin, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Hoversten, Kermit & Ruth – Austin, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Huselid, Dennis & Marion – Rochester, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Jaaskelainen, Norma and Wm. – Sarasota, FL In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Jawer, Bruce – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Johnson, Eunice & Hartley – Edina, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Johnson, Joyce – Racine, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Johnston, Stu & Carol – Decorah, IA In Memory of Einari Roald Carlson In Memory of Grace Torresdal Jonason, Lori – Minneapolis, MN In Honor of Chelsey & Kristin Judd, Jeff & Sonja – Oronoco, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Judd, Jim – Austin, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Kennedy, Dorothy – Lake City, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Kolpek, Lanny – Minong, WI In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Kopperud, Lyn – Edina, MN The Birch Log In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Kramer, Sue & Mark – Lincoln, NE In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Kryka, Jim & Nancy – Sarasota, FL In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Kuchlak, Susan & Jeff – Mesa, AZ In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Larsen, Kristi – Atlanta, GA In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Larson, Alan & Kathy – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Lehnen, Judy & Doug – St. Paul, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Lenz, Warren & Family – Rochester, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Levy, Maimon & Anna – Lakewood Ranch, FL In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Lichty, Betsy – Lakewood, CO In Memory of Ann & Bob Lichty Link, Russell & Jolene – Longville, MN In Memory of Bruce Swanson In Memory of Phil Chamberlain In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst In Honor of Terry Fellenz’s Birthday In Memory of Katherine Washburn In Memory of Bayliss Swanson Loken, Barb – Zumbrota, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Lucas, Carol – Lakewood Ranch, FL In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Lynne, Ken & Marlene – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Manthey, Jeff & Karen – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst McDermott, Rodney & Jean – Austin, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain McGuire, John & Ann – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Melville, Hilary & Sandy – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Milbrandt, Phyllis & Ernie— Northfield, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Mohlis, Will & Evelyn – Spring Valley, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Page 7 Moon, Frank & Betty – Hayfield, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Negen, Gabe & Trisha – Spicer, MN In Honor of Jim Rieth Nelson, Cheryl & Bob – New Brighton, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Newell, Maureen & Jim – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Nichols, Doug & Bobbi – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Nielsen, John – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Nyberg, Charles & Mary – Phoenix, AZ In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Olson, Nancy – Mounds View, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Olson, Terry and Jackelyn – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Orbeck, John & Karen – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Palmer, Susan – Rochester, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain In Honor of Colton Altobell (Scholarships) Parker, Nancy & Jeff – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Patterson, Robert & Claudia – Durango, CO In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Peterson, Bob & Carol – Racine, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Plank, Judy & Larry – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Renner, Ethel – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Resch, Sam & Sandi – Las Cruces, NM In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Rieth, Doug & Julie – Spartanburg, SC In Honor of Jim Rieth Rieth, Jim & Theresa – Spicer, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Saltness, Rick – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Sandstrom, H. Lee – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Senjem, Mike & Sue – Hatfield, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Smith, Mike & Cindy – Oronoco, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Snow, Lance – Byron, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Swanson, J. Wm. – Storm Lake, IA In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Tharp, Susan – Arlington Heights, IL In Memory of Jan Munz VanStraaten, Jack & Linda – Tucson, AZ In Memory of Bruce Swanson Veeder, Carolyn & Larry – Red Wing, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Veiseth, Dennis & Mary – Zumbrota, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Vicuna, Jorge & Connie – Huron, SD In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Waide, Susan – Winona, MN In Memory of Vada Waide Karasch Will, Brad – Marriottsville, MD In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Will, Kathleen – Lincoln, NE In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Williams, Aileen – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Williamson, Tom & Karen – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Wolfe, Marty & Lou Ellen – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst YMCA of Austin – Austin, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain Zimmerman Bernard, Leo & Eleanor --Spring Valley, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain In Kind Gifts Collins, Michael & Christina – Winnetka, IL Furman, Betsy – St. Paul, MN Jackson, Andy & Barbie Stimpson Madison, WI Jocko’s Saw Sharpening – Longville, MN Johnson, Pierce – Chicago, IL MOM Brands – Lakeville, MN Mylan Specialty LP – Canonsburg, PA Norton, John – St. Paul, MN Rich, Janet – Rochester, MN Thompson, Brandi – Elmwood,WI Wong, Jeff – Middleton, WI (3)60 Capital Campaign Gifts & Pledges as of 10/1/2015 (Kitchen, Dining Hall, White Palace) $25,000 + Bahn, Mark - Rochester, MN Card, Randy & Kristi Elliott – Ironton, MN Chamberlain, Phil & Eunice Hill – Cornville, AZ Furman, Betsy & Beth Janke – St. Paul, MN Estate of Ruth Kuechenmeister – Austin, MN The Birch Log Page 8 Perkins Foundation – Wayzata, MN Rieth, Jim & Theresa – Spicer, MN Shepard, Chuck & Judy – Winona, MN Shepard, Peter & Megan Perkins – Santa Fe, NM Titus, Michael – Elizabeth, CO Woodworth – Pete & Joyce – Winona, MN $10,000-$24,999 Bahn, Lucy – Rochester, MN Chamberlain, Phil & Eunice Hill – Cornville, AZ Collins, Michael & Christina – Winnetka, IL Edin, Andrew & Becky – Winona, MN Eidn, Matthew & Heather – Cary, NC Jonason, Lori, Chelsey, Kristin – Mpls, MN Julsrud, Paul & Patricia – Rochester, MN Rieth, Lee & Alissa – Overland Park, KS Spanier, Maureen – St. Cloud, MN Van Straaten, Jack & Linda – Tucson, AZ WKM Properties – Winona, MN Woodworth, Jacob & Nora – Longville, MN $5,000-$9,999 Bornstein, Susan & Peter – North Oaks, MN Cramer, Carl & Angela – Rochester, MN Cuthbert, Neal & Louise Robinson –Minneapolis, MN Dale, Katie & Charles – Fox Island, WA Davis, Nick & Julianne – Duluth, MN Esse, Ann –Chicago, IL Frank, Megan & Aaron – Rochester, MN Holmes, Mike & Leah – Rochester, MN Huizenga, Nancy – St. Paul, MN Julsrud, Erik & Jennifer – Duluth, MN Kempke, Sean & Ivy Wood – Duluth, MN Link, Russell & Jolene – Longville, MN Palmer, Shaun – Rochester, MN Palmer, Susan – Rochester, MN Recknor, Lee & Betty Jean, Rochester, MN Rich, Janet – Rochester, MN Rogers, David & Marty – Chillicothe, MO Sall, Kent & Jackie – St. Paul, MN Sall, Rodney – Roseville, MN Sorenson – Eric & Kristin – Rochester, MN Schwartz, Todd & Nancy – Urbandale, IA Street, Julie – Rochester, MN Swanson, Margret & Mark Muellerleile -Mahtomedi, MN Van Straaten, Jeff & Aimee – Duluth, MN Van Straaten, Michael & Meegan– Rochester, MN $2,500-$4,999 Calhoun, Michael – Minneapolis, MN Hames, Colin & Claire – Minnetrista, MN Rasmussen, Dave & Mary – Fargo, ND Smith, Rick & Kathy – Rochester, MN Steward, Patrick - Rochester, MN Vyhlidal, Amy & Chad – Lincoln, NE $1,000-$2,499 Fagerholm, Peder – Kennesaw, GA Fellenz, Terry & LorRae – Fall Creek, WI Hill, Steve & Betsy – Kirkwood, MO Kramer, Dan & Kay – St. Anthony, MN Lichty, Betsy – Lakewood, CO Melby, Ken & Ruth – Decorah, IA Rasmussen, Mark & Kristin – Kaneohe, HI Shepard, Tom & Marit – Minneapolis, MN Wood, Andrew & Krista – Rochester, MN $250-$499 Bohan, Pual, Missoula, MT Bures, Frank Jr – Minneapolis, MN DeWispelaere, Laurie & Jay Johnson -Glenallen, AK Heinrich, Steven & Lisa Wolfe Minneapolis, MN Jirele-Borleski, Jaime – Winona, MN Stettler, Sue – Eyota, MN The Birch Log Page 9 CAMP OLSON YMCA (3)60 Campaign Kitchen/Dining Hall, Bathhouse, Endowment I/We pledge a total of $_____________ to Camp Olson YMCA to be paid over_______years commencing_______________________. 20_____ (Maximum 5 year pledge) ________Enclosed is a check in the amount of $_____________ $500-$999 Clowers, David – Sturgeon Bay, WI Evan, Wayne & Ellen – Tuscon, AZ Letsche, Amy & Tom – Cherokee, IA Melby, Ken & Ruth – Decorah, IA Squarcia, Umberto & Lissette New York, NY Wabedo Township – Longville, MN ________Please bill me/us in equal installments _________annually ________semi-annually _________quarterly________monthly ________Please charge my credit card circled below the total amount of $___________ As follows: _________ single charge for total amount $____________ CAMP OLSON YMCA STAFF Russell Link - Executive Director [email protected] In equal installments Over____years_____annually_____semi-annually______quarterly______monthly VISA Lindsey Abrahams – Camp Director [email protected] MASTERCARD DISCOVER AMERICAN EXPRESS Card #__________________________________Exp___/___ CVV code________ Signature(s):_________________________________________ Date: _________________ (If using credit card, card holder on this line) Jacob Woodworth – Facilities Manager [email protected] Amy Johnson – Office Manager [email protected] The Vanguard 470 sailboat in the above photo was a donated to us by John Norton of St. Paul. A perfect boat for our sailors advancing in their skills. Each year, generous supporters like you celebrate Give to the Max Day by making your online donation on GiveMN.org. Your generosity on this day makes a difference far beyond the 24-hour giving event. Please join us on November 12, 2015, for Give to the Max Day and help us continue to change lives and provide scholarships for our campers. Your donation on Give to the Max Day also may help us receive an additional donation of $1,000. How? On November 12, every gift made on GiveMN.org will be entered into an hourly drawing for a $1,000 GiveMN Golden Ticket to be awarded to a nonprofit organization. That adds up to 24 opportunities for you to help us receive an extra $1,000! Here’s the really exciting part: One donation made on GiveMN.org will be randomly selected at noon and at the end of Give to the Max Day to receive a $10,000 Super-Sized GiveMN Golden Ticket! The more gifts we generate on GiveMN.org on November 12, the more our chances increase to receive that additional $10,000 donation. Imagine what we could do with $10,000! Be sure to mark your calendar and make your gift on November 12 by visiting GiveMN.org and searching for Camp Olson YMCA. Please Print Name(s) ________________________________________________ Preferred Mailing Address: ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ Home Phone: ______________________ Cell Phone: ______________________ Email: ________________________________________________ Camp Olson YMCA will recognize all donors as part of this campaign. Donor contributing $1,000 or more will have names displayed on the new dining hall addition at a place to be determined. All donors will be recognized in Camp Olson YMCA print and electronic reports. My/our name(s) should appear on the recognition and in any reports as: ___________________________________________________________________ I/we would like my/our gift to remain anonymous. ***Many employers have matching gift plans. Check to see if your workplace has such a program and how you can use it to leverage an even larger gift for Camp Olson YMCA. Please note, Camp Olson YMCA is a 501c3 non-profit organization, your gift is fully tax deductible as allowed by law. Please make check payable and return to: CAMP OLSON YMCA 4160 Little Boy Rd NE LONGVILLE, MN 56655 218-363-2207 [email protected] The Birch Log Page 10 Colton’s Corner Farewell Camp Olson! My heart is full. With gratitude for all of the members of this Camp Olson family, who have inspired, supported, and worked with me to create 10 summers of summer camp in these hallowed grounds. With sadness at saying farewell to my home, of 10 years in this house overlooking Little Boy Lake. With excitement in giving the reins of the program over to a dear friend Lindsey Abrahams. With eager anticipation of entering the next step in my connection to Camp where as a parent, I am able to watch my son “find joy and inspiration in the years to come.” The opportunity to serve as Camp Director has been an absolute honor and a privilege. It has consistently been challenging, continually rewarding, and filled to the brim with beautiful moments now etched in my memory. Camp Olson has left me rich with friendships, mentors, and mentees of all ages that I do not leave behind. I look forward to catching a sunrise on the Shurds and many a song around the campfire in the years to come. I want to give special thanks to Russ, who gave me a chance, believed in me, and both pushed and supported me year after year. A great leader listens, collaborates, inspires, and instills the highest values in others. Camp Olson is blessed with the strongest of leaders. I am forever in his debt. New roofs on camp buildings -protecting our assets. 12 buildings at camp (lower loop cabins, timber frame cabin loop and the target sports buildings) will have new renewable and sustainable steel roofing installed this fall. This roofing project has been outlined as part of our master plan for site & program development and as part of our overall preventive maintenance plan. With gratitude Camp Olson YMCA thanks our donors who matched a $20,000 grant from the Strategic Initiatives Fund of YMCA of the USA. Office Manager Amy flies under the radar, but she is in so many ways the glue that has allowed us to grow and to function smoothly all these years. Her kindness and dedication help so many parents and families to feel that they are a part of the family from that first phone call or email. Though she’s likely not comfortable with the praise, she deserves it in the highest. I will perhaps miss most my long-time friend and co-worker Jake Woodworth. He’s been a part of every single summer I’ve known at Camp Olson. His love for and responsibility to Camp has long served as a compass for me, more than he could know. Working with Jake is nothing but fun so much so that it’s seems unfair to call it ‘work’. Camp Olson will always be a home away from home. A piece of me stays here joining E.O. and Bella’s spirit that this institution carries on. This land is sacred and holds in it the power to change the world for the better. My hope and dream is to join the Camp Olson family in ensuring that the land and spirit is preserved and protected for the generations yet to come. Camp Olson YMCA wishes all the best to Colton, Caitlin and Declan Altobell. The Birch Log Page 11 A Farewell to Colton By Liz Hayden Outside, rain fell in heavy drops and the lake churned with whitecaps. We cleaned ourselves up and dressed in our best for a night of celebration and goodbyes. The annual staff banquet is always hard. If you’ve ever worked at camp, you know the feeling. After months living with your closest friends and enjoying the north woods with energy-filled youth, the thought of leaving is very hard. And how would we say goodbye to Colton Altobell – the man who was always there to guide us through our triumphs and our toughest days? How would we say goodbye to a legend? That night in our final staff circle we shared funny stories, favorite memories, and plans for the year ahead. Staff members expressed thanks to Colton along with well wishes for the future, tears filling their eyes and voices cracking as they spoke. You could calculate Colton’s success in numbers (we’ve seen enormous growth in camper enrollment and program development), but some of his greatest successes cannot be as easily measured, such as his positive influence on campers and staff. While I hadn’t thought to record what our staff shared with him that night, I had the opportunity to speak with several coworkers who have formed a special relationship with Colton throughout their time at camp. Colton as a Supervisor “As a boss, he was very open-minded about everything,” said our most recent program director, James Scudamore, “He’s so accepting of everyone, and where they’re coming from.” Sam Litin has spent the past eight summers at camp, and shared similar feelings as Scudamore. “Being able to unite under his leadership has been really easy. I’m incredibly proud of being a staff member here because of his guidance. Whether it’s to do with my personal job, or the place as a whole, whenever he’s made a judgment call, I trusted it.” Working at camp is tough. Long days, hours in the sun, camper issues and a lack of sleep for weeks on end can drag you down or make you sick. Colton proved over and over that he would support us. By helping us solve problems, giving us time off if necessary, or just having a conversation, he always found a way to boost our spirits. Lessons for a Lifetime In addition to guiding his staff as they worked to preserve the Spirit of the Northwoods, Colton also had a positive influence on his employees’ lives outside of camp. “I think he’s one of the reasons I am doing what I’m doing in college,” said Scudamore, a senior studying Environmental Science and Outdoor Education at the University of Minnesota Duluth. “He has been such an important role model for me during my time at camp.” “He’s taught me so much that I probably don’t even know that he’s taught me.” Ben Hayden, a long-time camper and third year staff member explained, “Just random things he’s taught me how to do, whether it’s a simple counseling tip, how to fix something, or lead a trip. He taught me what its like to be a leader when I was an LIT (Leader in Training) and how to be a counselor when I was a CIT (Counselor in Training).” Making and Molding Legends Through Example Throughout the summer, Colton frequently led discussions about what it means to be legendary and become a legend in the eyes of our campers. But he’s always taken his lessons a step further by showing us how it’s done. Here are a few stories to showcase what has made Colton a legend in the eyes of our staff: “I remember the first year he was here he knew my name,” said Hayden. “I always thought that was the coolest thing, that the camp director knew my name. He remembers everybody. I think Colton is a legend because he spent time with people teaching them things, and learned things from them. When I was 13 or 14 I was down at the boathouse trying to learn how to windsurf and I was struggling. Colton was there doing some work and he stopped what he was doing, stood at the end of the dock, and gave me some tips. And I got up. It was cool of him to take time out of his busy schedule for me, to just stop and help some kid learn how to windsurf better.” Litin reminisced about the sauna fire and a favorite tall-tale about Colton. “I remember getting the news. I called Colton, then Russ, then Jake, and went down there and we all started gathering water. Within 24 hours, this story had come about that it was not a fire truck that had put out the raging fire but that Colton had lifted an entire canoe full of water above his head and dumped it on the sauna and that put it out. And every single camper believed it - every single one and at least half of staff.” Scudamore recounts: “At this year’s AC staff training, we were talking about being legendary. Colton was leading the conversation and somebody said something about him lifting a canoe full of water and dumping it on the sauna fire, and Colton looked at everyone, paused, and was like, ‘Yeah. I didn’t do that. That’s physically impossible.’ And everyone just looked around like ‘No. You put out the sauna fire with a canoe full of water.’ Some of the staff truly thought he had lifted a canoe full of water and poured it on the sauna. I think he is so honest & modest about who he is at camp, his role, and what he has done. Some staff members feel Colton’s legendary status comes from his willingness to share his past failures and wisdom gained from tough experiences. “He’s a really good role model, and I think his sharing past experiences as a counselor helps us reflect on what we want to be,” said Kenzie Alexander, a fourth year staff member. Many of you may be familiar with the paddles our campers receive upon completing the LIT and CIT programs, but did you know that for the past several years Colton has hand whittled each and every paddle? Years ago our paddles were ordered from a seller, but the maker quit producing. Since then, Colton sat in his office late at night whittling dozens of paddles as he listened to his favorite tunes. Many times I found him in his desk chair focused on creating the special pendants, covered and surrounded with a thick layer of wood shavings. Colton’s dedication to campers, staff, and the whole of camp is nothing short of admirable. He is a great example of the spirit of the Northwoods, and the Camp Olson family will always cherish him. “To care so deeply on that level for a place and have the capacity to give yourself, your heart, your spirit to it every single day is incredible.” This is Goodnight and Not Goodbye “The biggest thing I want him to know is that he’s always been a leader in the eyes of everyone. I want him to know how proud we all are of him. He’s done some incredible things and cared so much for other people, and he’s always kept this place in its best interest. He’s going to be missed more than anyone can ever explain.” – Sam Litin “He’s been such a fixture of camp for such a long time, I have a hard time imagining it without him. He just IS camp. But camp can’t be a part of someone’s life forever, but camp will always be there for him.”– James Scudamore “He’s always been a legend to me. He always will be. I hope wherever he goes he’s happy.” – Ben Hayden Thank you Colton, for your endless dedication to Camp Olson, campers, and your staff. It’s been an honor to work beside you at the greatest place on earth. The Birch Log Page 12 The Birch Log Page 13 Word of Mouth Help us spread the Camp Olson Spirit! Camp Olson served a record number of campers in the summer of 2015, operating at about 92% capacity, overall. Still, we remain focused on our commitment to maintaining an experience for every single camper that is both positive and meaningful. Those experiences are what connect young people to the camp family for a lifetime. And, while we are committed to maintaining a capacity that allows us to continue to offer these experiences, there are still spaces to be filled! Each empty space is a lost opportunity for a young person to enjoy all the great things Camp has to offer! Most families learn about Camp Olson from other connected families—you! Only you, the families already connected, can truly share the positive benefits of a Camp Olson experience. Everyone knows of a young person or family that could experience those benefits, too. They are your extended family members, friends, co-workers, and neighbors. You attend church, youth sports, or social organizations with them. GIVE THE GIFT OF CAMP THIS CHRISTMAS Imagine the smile on a loved one’s face this Christmas when they unwrap an envelope and inside is a certificate for a one or two week stay at Camp Olson next summer. Simply call Camp Olson to order your certificate. Camp Olson will mail you the gift certificate for you to wrap however you choose. All Camp Olson Christmas Certificates by be ordered by December 15, 2015. Sharing Camp with others is a great gift! You can do it by talking up your own experiences, passing along a brochure, and sharing Camp Olson information on your social networks. Besides your own experiences, there are some powerful facts that are unique to Camp Olson: • 1:4 staff to camper ratio • Full time Health-Care staff • Great food! We accommodate nearly all food allergies and dietary restrictions • Great programs in the outdoors: sailing, horseback riding, archery, arts & crafts, swimming, canoeing, mountain biking, fishing, overnight campouts, and more! • Comfortable yet rustic cabins • Our amazing, dedicated, and caring staff • 1250 acres of property—5 lakes • Balance of scheduled activities and free-choice • Options for younger and first time campers that provide continuous supervision 24/7 • Pathfinder camp sessions (6-nights) • Voyageur short week camp (3-nights) • Coach bus transportation from Rochester, Austin, Twin Cities, St. Cloud, and Brainerd weekly • Camper scholarship program to those who demonstrate need. $84,000 in scholarships and discounts were awarded in 2015! Camp Olson Family Camp... ...Quality Time for the Entire Family! Family camp offers families an unforgettable experience with opportunities for fun, fellowship, and activities for the whole family. Much like youth camp, the focus is on building relationships, trying new activities, and experiencing the beauty of the outdoors at Camp Olson. It’s the ultimate all-inclusive vacation with great food, lodging, and a variety of fun activities provided right here onsite. Families live in our resident cabins and are assigned a “counselor” for the week who offers assistance and who you will get to know personally as a family. Campers under the age of 13 have daily Kids’ Club offered from 9:00am-12:00pm where they can meet new friends, get to know our awesome staff, and try all of our great activities. Parents, in turn, have morning time open to participate in activities, spend time together, or simply relax. Win-win! Afternoon and evening activities are geared for the whole family to participate together including: regattas, bog walks, horseback rides, bike rides, and so much more. Most cabins can accommodate up to 10 guests, so families are free to combine with extended families or friends for the week. It is an intimate option, but a great way to divide the cost! Become a Camp Olson Ambassador! 2016 Family Camp Sessions: • Family Camp Session A—August 7-13 • Family Camp Session B—August 14-20 Contact our Camp Director, Lindsey Abrahams lindsey@campolson. org. Camp Olson Ambassadors receive a packet of brochures, discount certificates for new families, and a special gift! Lindsey is also available to assist in hosting a Camp Olson informational meeting at your home. You provide the space, and he will come to present, provide information, offer discounts, and answer questions. Cabins are likely to fill for both sessions, so plan ahead! Please contact us to learn more about Family Camp if you are interested. Up-to-date availability for 2016 Family Camp can be found on our website: www.campolson.org/family-camp Camp Olson YMCA Wish List updated October 2015 Items Cost Archery Equipment $1,000 Window Replacement (residence) $4,000 30 Lifejackets $800 25 HP Outboard Motor $5,000 Commercial Microwave Oven $400 (3) Kayaks $2,000 Color Laser Printer (high capacity) $800 Used compact 4x4 pickup truck $6,000 Digital Projector $800 Projector Screen $200 Frontload Washer & Dryer $2,500 WaterMat for the Beach $1,300 If you would like to donate to the Camp Olson Wish List or would like additional information about items on the Wish List please contact Russ Link, Executive Director at [email protected] or call 218-363-2207 The Birch Log Page 14 Counselors in Training 2016 The grand finale of camper-hood at Camp Olson is the Counselor in Training program. The Camp Olson Counselor in Training program is the transitioning step for those who aspire to work at camp in the future and for those who are looking for a challenging and life-changing opportunity. Camp Olson CIT’s undergo an experience like no other. Over the course of four weeks, they will gain leadership skills, trek for a week along the Superior Hiking Trail, and forge lifelong bonds with their fellow participants. The program provides great life experience and is a great primer to future employment at Camp Olson as well as tools for life. Through hands-on experience and thoughtful discussion and feedback from their leaders, all participants are able to turn inward and discover the great power they hold within themselves. It is a life-changing journey! We currently have 35 CITs from around the world registered for the CIT program next summer. Very limited space is available for the 2015 program. Check the website for availability and register soon. Registered CIT Campers as of October 5, 2015 Alejandro Anariva-Ploetz - Savage, MN Blake Brown - Edina, MN Madilyn Carlson - Minnetonka, MN Andrew Cramer - Rochester, MN Alexander Doppler - Rochester, MN Katherine Dougherty - Rochester, MN Payton Drefcinski - Mason, OH Joshua Evans - Wilmette, IL Shayna Gnewuch - Arlington, MA Maya Gonzalez - Fergus Falls, MN Aidan Healy - Minneapolis, MN SophieJohnson - Bethesda, MD Rachael Kuhlman - Hackensack, MN Nathan Larson - Pine Island, MN Abigail Lindenfeld - Rochester, MN Owen MahonWalker, MN Emerald Mayer - Rochester, MN Charles Milbrandt - Rochester, MN Harper O’Neill - Rushford, MN Aliya Orenstein - Paradise Valley, AZ Claire Pishko - Phoenix, AZ CarolePlane - Fontenay, France Matteo Riou - Vaucresson, France Richard Roden - Rochester, MN Jack Rogers - Avon, MN Miles Rohrbaugh - Duluth , MN Owen Sall - St. Paul, MN Erin Todd - Rochester, MN Peter Tweed - Naperville, IL Caroline Utz - Rochester, MN Campers (6) YMCA of Spain ANNUAL MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT When: 7:30 pm Monday, January 25, 2016 Where: To Be Announced on our website Can I attend and vote? • Yes, if you contributed more than $25.00 to Camp Olson YMCA • Yes, if you volunteered more than 5 hours of labor or time. • Yes, if you paid for a camp program. What goes on at an annual meeting? • Interested prospective board members are elected to the board. • Audited year-end financials are reviewed and approved. • Meet and spend time talking with board members and staff. *All eligible voters must be over the age of 18 at the time of the meeting. Officers of the board are not elected at the Annual Meeting, but you can nominate individuals to be voted on by the board. To do so, nominations must be submitted prior to December 20, 2015. Camp Olson YMCA 4160 Little Boy Rd NE Longville, MN 56655 The Birch Log Page 15 LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS LEADERS-IN-TRAINING Last summer our Leaders in Training program expanded to include both LIT I and LIT II program options for our teen campers and aspiring young leaders. Camp Olson’s Leaders in Training is a two-week session for campers ages 13-16. The program offers young leaders the chance to begin to get a little bit more out of their camping experience. Mornings are spent with fellow LITs participating in teambuilding and leadership lessons in cooperation, teamwork, wilderness camping, and personal growth. The twoweek sessions also include a trip to the climbing wall and a group canoe trip. LIT I campers will complete a 4-day canoe trip to Voyageurs National Park and live in our Leadership cabins, Ripley & Ramsey while at Camp. LIT II campers undertake a more advanced 8-day canoe trip to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness or a 7-day backpacking trip and live in group tents at camp before and after their trip. As your camper looks ahead in their camping career, it is recommended (but NOT required) that campers begin with LIT I and proceed to LIT II the following summer. 2016 Leaders-in-Training Sessions: LIT I (4-day canoe trip) • LIT12—June 12-25 • LIT56—July 10-23 LIT II (8-day canoe trip) • LIT34—June 26-July 9 • LIT78—July 24-August 6 LIT II ( 7-day backpacking trip) • LIT56BP—July 10-23 Now hiring for 2016 the Job of a lifetime! We are now accepting applications for all positions on the 2016 Camp Olson staff. We are looking for people who are caring, dedicated, hard-working, motivated, and who are comfortable working with youth in an outdoors environment. Working on staff is a chance to be a mentor, gain skills, and grow as an individual. In short, it could be the most challenging and rewarding experience of your life! Plus, you’ll meet lifelong friends and have a ton of fun, creating the Camp Olson experience for our youth campers. Camp-staff experience builds many employable skills and looks great on your resume. Interviews and hiring begin as early as midNovember for management, program director, and LDP leader positions. Apply online at www. campolson.org/staff First year staff must be able to attend at least one of our 2016 staff training events: May 6-8 or June 5-11 Contact [email protected] with any questions. Healthcare Staff Needed for the 2016 Summer Camp Season Sharing the Spirit of the North woods with youth, families and their leaders through YMCA Christian principled programs that build healthy mind, body and spirit for all since 1954 Each summer 16 professional healthcare personnel (RNs, LPNs, and M.D.s) volunteer their time in exchange for children attending camp. If you are interested in providing routine health care and desire to learn more about becoming a camp healthcare professional please contact Executive Director Russ Link [email protected] P.O. Box 118 Longville, MN 56655 A Newsletter for the Camp Olson Family... www.campolson.org [email protected] Camp Olson YMCA 4160 Little Boy Road NE Longville, MN 56655 218-363-2207 218-363-2490 fax www.campolson.org [email protected] JOIN US THIS SUMMER and BRING A FRIEND REGISTER TODAY FOR 2016 SUMMER PROGRAMS Sharing the Spirit of the North woods with youth, families and their leaders through YMCA Christian principled programs that build healthy mind, body and spirit for all. ~ since 1954
