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Volume LIII Fall 2015A Newsletter for the Camp Olson Family
CAMP OLSON YMCA
THE BIRCH LOG
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 fi rst summer as a Camp
Olson camper in 1998. Since then I have returned to camping every
summer in a variety of capacities. My fi rst sum-mer 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 North-ern 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
pursu-ing 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
return-ing 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 call-ing 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 LinkExecutive 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 fi rm.
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The Birch LogPage 2 The Birch Log Page 3
President’s Message ~ Lucy BahnBursts 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
terrifi c 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.
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.
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, undimin-ished natural beauty, and unique experiences
for all.
With Best Wishes,
Lucy Bahn President Camp Olson YMCA Board of Directors Camp
Olson YMCA
2015 Board of DirectorsLucy Bahn – President – Rochester, MN 3rd
yearThomas Shepard – Vice President – Mpls, MN 3rd yearBetsy Furman
– Secretary - St. Paul, MN 5th yearJulianne Davis – Duluth, MN 2nd
yearAndy Edin – Winona, MN 5th yearMegan Frank – Rochester, MN 1st
yearMichael Holmes – Rochester, MN 2nd yearNancy Huizenga – St.
Paul, MN 2nd yearLori Jonason – Minneapolis, MN 1st yearErik
Julsrud – Duluth, MN 2nd yearSean Kempke – Duluth, MN 1st yearLee
Rieth – Overland Park, KS 3rd yearDave Rogers – Chillicothe, MO 1st
yearKent Sall – St. Paul, MN 3rd yearRick Smith – Rochester, MN 5th
yearMichael Titus – Elizabeth, CO, 1st yearAndy Wood – Rochester,
MN 2nd year
The Camp Olson YMCA Board of Direc-tors 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 volun-teer their time and talents
to support the achievement of our mission.
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 $1,100,000New
Bathhouse $ 400,000Endowment $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]
(3)60 Campaign: It’s Time to Step Up
The capital campaign to support the renovation of the Dining
Hall, a new Kitchen and the replace-ment for our beloved/time-worn
Palace is making great progress. We need $560,000 in gifts and
pledges right now so we can confi dently 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.
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.
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 mem-ber, 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.
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
(3)60 Campaign Co-Chairs Margret Swanson and Todd Schwartz.
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The Birch LogPage 4 The Birch Log Page 5The Camp Olson YMCA
fiscal year is from October 1- September 30. This list represents
annual and scholar-ship gifts and pledges received from October 1,
2014 – September 30, 2015. With gratitude, we extend our thanks to
those who have contribut-ed financially to benefit our camping
programs.
We sincerely apologize if we omit-ted your name. Please call the
camp office so we may make the neces-sary corrections.
Pioneer Level ~ $2,500 +
2015 Summer Staff MembersCard, Randy & Kristi Elliott -
Ironton, MNKempke, Sean & Ivy Wood – Duluth, MNLongville Area
Community Foundation– Longville, MNLongville Lakes Area Chamber of
Com-merce-- Longville, MNMayo Clinic Foundation – Rochester,
MNRieth, Jim & Theresa – Spicer, MNSanger, Steve & Karen –
Wayzata, MNShepard, Peter & Megan Perkins -- Santa Fe,
NMWallin, Brooks – Paris, FranceWallin Foundaton – Minneapolis,
MNYMCA of the USA Strategic Initiatives Fund
Trailblazer Level ~ $1,000- $2,499
Anchorage Inn – Longville, MNBacklund, Jim & Theresa –
Rochester, MNBrown, Mary – Minneapolis, MNBahn, Mark & Lucy –
Rochester, MNCrow Wing Power Community Trust – Brainerd, MNEstry,
Dick & Kathy – Rochester, MNHanna, Patrick – Salt Lake City,
UTHansen, William – Longville, MN Hughes, Holly – Maplewood, MOLake
Country Power – Mountain Iron, MNMiller, Jes & Wil – Winona,
MNPalmer, Susan – Rochester, MNPerkins Foundation – Wayzata,
MNRecknor, Lee & Betty Jean - Rochester, MNSchwartz, Todd &
Nancy, Urbandale, IASorenson, Eric & Kristen – Rochester,
MN
Spanier, Maureen – St. Cloud, MNStettler, Todd & Sue –
Eyota, MNStreit, Peter & Karen – Rochester, MNTharp, Michael
& Julia – Little Rock, ARWm. Miller Scrap Iron & Metal –
Winona, MNWoodworth, Pete & Joyce – Winona, MNYMCA of Austin –
Austin, MN
Voyager Level ~ $500-$999
Biesanz, Scott & Jane – Winona, MNBrown, Frank & Alice –
St. Cloud, MNBrown, Bill & Lynn – Edina, MNBornstein, Susan
& Peter – North Oaks, MNChamberlain, Phil & Eunice Hill –
Cornville, AZCuthbert, Neal & Louise Robinson - Minneapolis,
MNCutlip, George – Madison, WIDavis, Nick & Julianne – Duluth,
MNDeWispelaere, Laurie & Jay Johnson - Glenallen, AKEdin,
Andrew & Becky – Winona, MNElliott, Bill & Jan – Longville,
MNEvans, Wayne & Ellen – Tucson, AZFeeser, Hollis – Rochester,
MNFellenz, Terry & LorRae – Fall Creek, WIFineLine Finish Trim,
Inc – Eyota, MNFleming, Kevin & Mari – Rochester, MNFrank,
Aaron & Megan – Rochester, MNFurman, Betsy – St. Paul, MNGreer,
Joyce – Zumbro Falls, MNGross, Shelly & Chad – Freeport,
MNHankel, Lindy & Tim Moynihan – Rochester, MNHaus, Michael
& Cindy – Prior Lake, MNHill, Steven & Betsy – Kirkwood,
MOHolmes, Mike & Leah -- Rochester, MNHuizenga, Charles –
Berkeley, CALenoir, Martin & Susan – Santa Ana, CALink, Russell
& Jolene – Longville, MNLongville Lions Club – Longville,
MNNartovich, Natalia & Alexsandr – Rochester, MNPalmer, Shaun –
Rochester, MNRussell, Stephen & Janey – Rochester, MNShepard,
Chuck & Judy – Winona, MNSorenson, Eric & Kristin –
Rochester, MNStafford, Scott & Jacki – RochesterStettler, Todd
& Sue – Eyota, MNSteward, Patrick – Rochester, MNSwanson,
Margret – Mahtomedi, MNThomson, Curt & Dana – Peyton, COTjaden,
Jacob – St. Paul, MNUhlenhopp, John – Santa Fe, NM
Wong, Jeff & Pam Olson – Middleton, WIWoodworth, Jacob &
Nora – Longville, MNWoodworth, Lindsey – Maple Plain, MN
Discoverer Level ~ $250-$499
Anderson, Gail – Rochester, MNArenberg, Daniel & Deborah –
Lemont, ILAugustine, John & Bobbi – Guttenberg, NJButler,
Jordan – Plymouth, MNCard, Norm and Kathy – Federal Dam, MN Carey,
Richard & Jean – Nisswa, MNCovington Schwartz, Hope – St. Paul,
MNDillard, Tyler – Killeen, TXEsser, Andrew & Kim – LaCrescent,
MNFritz, Randall & Dorothea – Rochester, MNGreer, Marlen &
Joyce – Zumbro Falls, MNHansen, Bill & Laura – Longville,
MNHartson, George – Minneapolis, MNHersch, Janene – Edina, MNHoban,
Tom & Susan – Fridley, MNHuizenga, Nancy – St. Paul,
MNMatenaer, Kristine & David – St. Paul, MNMelton, LJ &
Jane – Rochester, MNMerchants Bank – Rochester, MNMiclau, Ted &
Kirsten – San Francisco, CAMiner, Jerome – Duluth, MNMitchell,
Marvin – Rochester, MNMunden, Don & Melody – Albert Lea,
MNNaugle, Meg & Pete – Walker, MNQualey, Marsha & Dave –
Eau Claire, WIRieth, David & Susan – Tampa, FLRieth, Doug &
Julie – Spartanburg, SCRieth, Lee & Alissa – Overland Park,
KSRyan, Catherine & Mike VonMuchow – LaCrosse, WISchwartz,
Charles & Hope -St. Paul, MNSholtz, Peter & Jane – Hopkins,
MNSmith, Rick -- Rochester, MNStifel Nicolaus – Rochester,
MNStreet, Julie – Rochester, MNTeneyck, Dave & Lisa Wigand
-Pillager, MNThompson, Brandi – Elmwood, WIVan Nelson, Robert &
Carolyn – Minn., MNWilson, Linda – Rochester, MNWindebank, Anthony
– Zumbro Falls, MN
Wood, Andrew – Rochester, MNWoodworth, Nathan & Becky -
Winona, MN
Explorer Level ~ $100-$249
Adkins, Mark & Shirlyn – Rochester,MN Altobell, Steve –
Fountain City, WIArvig Communications – Perham, MNBarsness,
Lawrence & Sharon —Rochester, MNBeard, Adam & Norma –
Austin, MNBendsen, Ched – Oak Park, ILBiesanz, Nick – Winona,
MNBlegen, Dave & Peggy – Rochester, MNBrown, Ken & Lucy –
St. Anthony, MNBures, Frank & Ruth – Winona, MNButler, Lynnette
– Plymouth, MNCarpenter, Jerry & Jan – Longville, MNCarpenter,
Scott & Karen – Longville, MN Cartney, Joe & Sharleen –
Byron, MNChapman, Craig & Tara – Winfield, ILCharpentier, Don
& Carol – Longville, MNChisolm, Jane – Atlanta, GAClowers,
David – Sturgeon Bay, WICondon, John & Stephanie -Golden
Valley, MNCramer, Carl & Angela – Rochester, MNDale, Charlie
& Katie – Fox Island, WADonaldson, Jim & Leigh – Morgan
Hills, CAEdstrom, Frances – Winona, MNEilers, Angie & Mark –
St. Louis Park, MNEilers, Curt & Jodie – Marion, IAFirst Nat’l
Bank of Walker – Walker, MNForslund, Robert – Inver Grove,
MNFranklin, Joan & Daryl – Austin, MNFritz, Carolyn – Grand
Marais, MNGeerdes, Gregg & Pam – Rochester, MNGeist, David –
Northfield, MN Gilkinson, James & Julianna – Rochester,
MNGoellner, John & Annette – Rochester MNHagan, Mickaela –
Madison, WIHanna, Matt & Melissa – Chanhassen, MNHansen, Jay
& Nicole – Rochester, MNHauser, Katherine – Minneapolis,
MNHayden, Becky & David – Breezy Point, MNHarris, Wayne –
Rochester, MNHazama, Charles – Rochester, MNHazelton, Beth &
Vance – Ashland, WIHuizenga, Hugh & Vicotria Fish - Norwich,
VT
Johnston, Stuart & Carol – Decorah, IAJulsrud, Erik &
Jennifer – Duluth, MNKerr, Don & Phyllis – Blaine, MNKhan,
Michael & Ann Long – St. Paul Kierlin, Robert – Winona,
MNKramer, Christopher – Minneapolis, MNKramer, Kay & Dan – St.
Anthony, MN Lantz, Chuck & Vickie – Rochester, MNLarson, Tim
& Sarah – Rochester, MNLetsche, Tom & Amy – Cherokee, IA
Lichty, Betsy – Lakewood, COLitzow, Mark & Kris – Rochester,
MNLitin, Scott – Rochester, MNLong, Ann – St. Paul, MNLongville
Area Women of Today - Longville, MN Lutz, Janice – Fremont,
NEMahon, Jay & Dawn – Duluth, MNMahon, Tom & Carol –
Rochester, MNMalinchoc, Michael – Rochester, MNMunden, Donald &
Melody – Albert Lea, MNNielsen, Skott & Josey – Barnum,
MNNoerenberg, Jean – Plymouth, MNNordquist, Alan & Sandy –
Apple Valley, MNRaasch, Don & Elisabeth - Maple Grove,
MNRasmussen, Dave & Mary – Fargo, NDRecknor, Glen – Rochester,
MNRichardson, Allen & Colleen – St PaulRogers, Chris –
Goodview, MNRogers, Dave & Marty – Chillicothe, MORohrbaugh,
Leon & Britt – Duluth, MNSchrom, Cheryl & Rob - Grand
Rapids, MNSheridan, Linda & Paul -Deer Harbor, WAShriver, Brian
& Christine - Maplewood, MNSilber, Michael & Sandra –
RochesterSmithson, Tony & Judy – RochesterSpanier, Matt –
Portland, MASpiten, Sue – Winona, MNStettler, Todd & Sue –
Eyota, MNSullivan, Tim & Amy – Orono, MNTauxe, Rob & Cyn –
Atlanta,GAThompson, Brandi – Elmwood, WITrippel, Sally – Rochester,
MNTufvesson, Peter & Mary – Winona, MNVanlaningham, Glenn &
EllaUtz, Mark & Julia – Rochester, MNVan Straaten, Mike &
Meegan - Rochester, MN Waide, Susan – Winona, MNWashburn, Fran
& Katherine - Rochester, MNWaugh, John & Gracy - Marine on
St. Croix, MNWayne-Bruton, Shelley – Abilene, TXWestendorf, Rebecca
– Rochester, MNWindebank, Sharon – Rochester, MNYoung Walser,
Robert & Julie -Minneapolis, MNYtterberg, Ellen – Washington,
DC
Pathfinder Level ~ $1-$99
Altobell, Colton & Caitlin – Longville, MNAnderson, Terri –
Plymouth, MNAnonymous
Arnquist, Kit & Tim – Boy River, MNBakken, Amanda –
Evanston, ILBenscoter, Walter & Kathryn – Rochester, MNBergen,
Judi & Dick – Austin, MN Brown, Laura – Shoreview, MNButler,
Christopher – Rochester, MNBurton, Randy & Barb – Rochester,
MNCachiaras, John & Dorothy – Rochester, MNCalderone, Rebecca –
Plymouth, MNCapezzuto, Risa – Minneapolis, MNDavis, Katie – Duluth,
MNDockerty, John & Diane – Rochester, MNEspeset, Paul & Pat
– Rochester, MNEwoldt, Russ & Bette – Plymouth, MNFelton,
Carolyn – Winona, MNFlohaug, Greg & Kelsi – Coon Rapids,
MNFujimori, Maureen & Taro – Shrewsbury, MAHahn, Anne –
Bedford, INHaider, Michael & Patricia – Pine Island,
MNHarberts, Dale & Jane – Rochester, MNHaugen, David – St.
Paul, MNHayden, Elizabeth – Breezy Point, MNHazelton, Beth &
Vance – Washburn, WIHepper, Norm & Charmaine – Rochester,
MNHeyne, George & Carolyn – Rochester, MNHuizenga, Carolyn –
Oak Lawn, IL Hunter, Melissa – Oakdale, MN
Johnson, Bernt – Bethesda, MDJohnson, Gunnar – Duluth,
MNJohnson, Lowell & Barbara – Northfield, MNJonason, Kristin –
Minneapolis, MNJoyce, Robert & Diane – Rochester, MNKapler,
Demarie – Sandy, UTKennedy, Kathleen – St. Paul, MNKrage, Susan
& Pat – Grand Marais, MNLeingang, Lyndsay – Duluth, MNLink,
Connor – Longville, MNLink, Micah – Longville, MNMatenaer, Anna –
St. Paul, MNMayer, Stan & Amy – Rochester, MNMcGowan, Jim &
Maren – St. Paul, MNMunger, Janet – Rochester, MNNartovich, Katia –
Duluth, MNNative American Rainbow Network Noerenberg, Jean – Golden
Valley, MNPearson, Kristin – Brunswick, MEPetters, Jon &
Colleen – Avon, MNRies, Adam – Duluth, MNRogers, Stephanie –
Minneapolis, MNSchwartz, Hope – St. Paul, MN
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The Birch LogPage 6 The Birch Log Page 7Sedgwick, Linda –
Minnetonka, MNShriver, Brian – Maplewood, MNSimpson, Bill &
Beverly – Sioux Falls, SDSmith, Tom & Karen – Littleton,
COSumption, John & Lissa – Longville, MNSwanson, Peter – San
Francisco, CASweeney, Kathy – Longville, MNTaylor, Paul Wm. –
Whitefish, MTTimmons, Catherine – Farmington Hills, MITretsven,
Dave & Deb – Falcon Heights, MNTwo Point Gun Club – Grand
Rapids, MNUnterholzner, Laura – Rochester, MNWheeler, Jessica –
Redwing, MNWick, 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-$999Palmer, Shaun – Rochester, MNTharp, Susan – Arlington
Heights, ILWood, Andy – Rochester, MN
$250-$499Edin, Andrew & Becky – Winona, MNStettler, Sue –
Eyota, MN
$100-$249
Memorial & Honor Gifts
Ackman, Terry & Karen Wolfe -- Rochester, MN In Memory of
Karen EikenhorstAngelo, Bob & Sharon – Sedona, AZ In Memory of
Phil ChamberlainAnonymous In Memory of Karen EikenhorstAntonson,
Stan & Janet – Stewartville, MN In Honor of Jay, Jacob &
Owen Ma-honArmstrong, Frank & Linda – Oronoco, MN In Memory of
Karen EikenhorstAylsworth, Steve & Carol – Chatfield, MN In
Memory of Karen EikenhorstAylsworth, Wes & Jessie – Lorreto, MN
In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Baartman, Randy & Betsy – Pine
Island, MN In Memory of Karen EikenhorstBallinger, Pat – Racine, MN
In Memory of Phil ChamberlainBarnhart, Tom & Linda – Port
Charlotte, FL In Memory of Karen Eikenhorst Bauman, Ken &
Elaine – Byron, MN In Memory of Karen EikenhorstBazey, John &
Diane – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen EikenhorstBetcher, Madelyn
– Stewartville, MN In Memory of Phil ChamberlainBradley, Suzanna –
Mesa, AZ In Memory of Phil ChamberlainBrown, Phyllis – Fort, IN In
Memory of Phil ChamberlainBuck, David & Katherine – Dennison,
MN In Memory of Karen EikenhorstCard, Norm & Kathy – Federal
Dam, MN In Honor of Kristi Elliott & Randy CardCase, Elaine
& Bill Wiktor – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen
EikenhorstCaucutt, Greg – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen
EikenhorstClowers, David – Sturgeon Bay, WI In Memory of Max
ClowersCoon, James & Joanna – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen
EikenhorstCooper, Don & Dawn – Spring Valley, MN In Memory of
Phil ChamberlainCooper, Dorothy – Rochester, MN In Memory of Phil
ChamberlainDavis, Kathy – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen
EikenhorstDening, Michael & Maria Pellew-Harvey -- Richmond, VA
In Honor of Jim Rieth’s BirthdayDodge, Brian, Kami & Eric –
Waunakee, WI In Memory of Karen EikenhorstDodge, Larry & Joanne
– Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen EikenhorstEikelburg, Stu &
Diana – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen EikenhorstEikenhorst,
Family – Minong, WI
In Memory of Karen EikenhorstEikenhorst, Orval & Esther – Le
Mars, IA In Memory of Karen EikenhorstElliott, Bill & Jan –
Longville, MN In Memory of Phil ChamberlainEstry, Dick & Kathy
– Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen EikenhorstFellenz, 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 SwansonFenlon, Margaret – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen
EikenhorstFisher, Keith – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen
EikenhorstFoote, Molly – Bellingham, WA In Memory of Phil
ChamberlainFriedrich, Brian & Kristine – Austin, MN In Memory
of Phil ChamberlainGarbisch, Mark & Brenda – Rochester, MN In
Memory of Karen EikenhorstGlover, Marlys & Sharon Justin-- St.
Charles, MN In Memory of Phil ChamberlainHaugen, David – St. Paul,
MN In Honor of Mark & Lucy BahnHeiser, Joann and Richard – New
Brighton, MN In memory of Phil ChamberlainHerron, Tom and Jaclynn –
New Brighton, MN In Memory of Phil ChamberlainHoversten, David
& Nancy – Austin, MN In Memory of Phil ChamberlainHoversten,
Kermit & Ruth – Austin, MN In Memory of Phil
ChamberlainHuselid, Dennis & Marion – Rochester, MN In Memory
of Phil ChamberlainJaaskelainen, Norma and Wm. – Sarasota, FL In
Memory of Karen EikenhorstJawer, Bruce – Rochester, MN In Memory of
Karen EikenhorstJohnson, Eunice & Hartley – Edina, MN In Memory
of Karen EikenhorstJohnson, Joyce – Racine, MN In Memory of Phil
ChamberlainJohnston, Stu & Carol – Decorah, IA In Memory of
Einari Roald Carlson In Memory of Grace TorresdalJonason, Lori –
Minneapolis, MN In Honor of Chelsey & KristinJudd, Jeff &
Sonja – Oronoco, MN In Memory of Karen EikenhorstJudd, Jim –
Austin, MN In Memory of Phil ChamberlainKennedy, Dorothy – Lake
City, MN In Memory of Phil ChamberlainKolpek, Lanny – Minong, WI In
Memory of Karen EikenhorstKopperud, Lyn – Edina, MN
In Memory of Phil ChamberlainKramer, Sue & Mark – Lincoln,
NE In Memory of Karen EikenhorstKryka, Jim & Nancy – Sarasota,
FL In Memory of Karen EikenhorstKuchlak, Susan & Jeff – Mesa,
AZ In Memory of Phil ChamberlainLarsen, Kristi – Atlanta, GA In
Memory of Karen EikenhorstLarson, Alan & Kathy – Rochester, MN
In Memory of Karen EikenhorstLehnen, Judy & Doug – St. Paul, MN
In Memory of Karen EikenhorstLenz, Warren & Family – Rochester,
MN In Memory of Phil ChamberlainLevy, Maimon & Anna – Lakewood
Ranch, FL In Memory of Karen EikenhorstLichty, 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 SwansonLoken, Barb – Zumbrota, MN In
Memory of Karen EikenhorstLucas, Carol – Lakewood Ranch, FL In
Memory of Karen EikenhorstLynne, Ken & Marlene – Rochester, MN
In Memory of Karen EikenhorstManthey, Jeff & Karen – Rochester,
MN In Memory of Karen EikenhorstMcDermott, Rodney & Jean –
Austin, MN In Memory of Phil ChamberlainMcGuire, John & Ann –
Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen EikenhorstMelville, Hilary &
Sandy – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen EikenhorstMilbrandt,
Phyllis & Ernie— Northfield, MN In Memory of Phil
ChamberlainMohlis, Will & Evelyn – Spring Valley, MN In Memory
of Karen Eikenhorst
Moon, Frank & Betty – Hayfield, MN In Memory of Phil
ChamberlainNegen, Gabe & Trisha – Spicer, MN In Honor of Jim
RiethNelson, Cheryl & Bob – New Brighton, MN In Memory of Phil
ChamberlainNewell, Maureen & Jim – Rochester, MN In Memory of
Karen EikenhorstNichols, Doug & Bobbi – Rochester, MN In Memory
of Karen EikenhorstNielsen, John – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen
EikenhorstNyberg, Charles & Mary – Phoenix, AZ In Memory of
Phil ChamberlainOlson, Nancy – Mounds View, MN In Memory of Phil
ChamberlainOlson, Terry and Jackelyn – Rochester, MN In Memory of
Karen EikenhorstOrbeck, John & Karen – Rochester, MN In Memory
of Karen EikenhorstPalmer, Susan – Rochester, MN In Memory of Phil
Chamberlain In Honor of Colton Altobell (Scholar-ships)Parker,
Nancy & Jeff – Rochester, MN In Memory of Karen
EikenhorstPatterson, Robert & Claudia – Durango, CO In Memory
of Phil ChamberlainPeterson, Bob & Carol – Racine, MN In Memory
of Phil ChamberlainPlank, Judy & Larry – Rochester, MN In
Memory of Karen EikenhorstRenner, Ethel – Rochester, MN In Memory
of Karen EikenhorstResch, Sam & Sandi – Las Cruces, NM In
Memory of Karen EikenhorstRieth, Doug & Julie – Spartanburg, SC
In Honor of Jim RiethRieth, Jim & Theresa – Spicer, MN In
Memory of Phil ChamberlainSaltness, Rick – Rochester, MN In Memory
of Karen EikenhorstSandstrom, H. Lee – Rochester, MN In Memory of
Karen EikenhorstSenjem, Mike & Sue – Hatfield, MN In Memory of
Phil ChamberlainSmith, Mike & Cindy – Oronoco, MN In Memory of
Karen EikenhorstSnow, Lance – Byron, MN In Memory of Karen
EikenhorstSwanson, J. Wm. – Storm Lake, IA In Memory of Karen
EikenhorstTharp, Susan – Arlington Heights, IL In Memory of Jan
MunzVanStraaten, Jack & Linda – Tucson, AZ In Memory of Bruce
SwansonVeeder, Carolyn & Larry – Red Wing, MN In Memory of Phil
ChamberlainVeiseth, Dennis & Mary – Zumbrota, MN In Memory of
Karen EikenhorstVicuna, Jorge & Connie – Huron, SD In Memory of
Karen EikenhorstWaide, Susan – Winona, MN In Memory of Vada Waide
KaraschWill, 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
EikenhorstWilliamson, Tom & Karen – Rochester, MN In Memory of
Karen EikenhorstWolfe, Marty & Lou Ellen – Rochester, MN In
Memory of Karen EikenhorstYMCA of Austin – Austin, MN In Memory of
Phil ChamberlainZimmerman Bernard, Leo & Eleanor --Spring
Valley, MN In Memory of Phil Chamberlain
In Kind Gifts
Collins, Michael & Christina – Winnetka, ILFurman, Betsy –
St. Paul, MNJackson, Andy & Barbie Stimpson - Madison,
WIJocko’s Saw Sharpening – Longville, MNJohnson, Pierce – Chicago,
ILMOM Brands – Lakeville, MNMylan Specialty LP – Canonsburg,
PANorton, John – St. Paul, MNRich, Janet – Rochester, MNThompson,
Brandi – Elmwood,WIWong, Jeff – Middleton, WI
(3)60 Capital Campaign Gifts & Pledges as of
10/1/2015(Kitchen, Dining Hall, White Palace)
$25,000 +Bahn, Mark - Rochester, MNCard, Randy & Kristi
Elliott – Ironton, MNChamberlain, Phil & Eunice Hill –
Cornville, AZFurman, Betsy & Beth Janke – St. Paul, MNEstate of
Ruth Kuechenmeister – Austin, MN
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The Birch LogPage 8 The Birch Log Page 9Perkins Foundation –
Wayzata, MNRieth, Jim & Theresa – Spicer, MNShepard, Chuck
& Judy – Winona, MNShepard, Peter & Megan Perkins – Santa
Fe, NMTitus, Michael – Elizabeth, COWoodworth – Pete & Joyce –
Winona, MN
$10,000-$24,999Bahn, Lucy – Rochester, MNChamberlain, Phil &
Eunice Hill – Cornville, AZCollins, Michael & Christina –
Winnetka, ILEdin, Andrew & Becky – Winona, MNEidn, Matthew
& Heather – Cary, NCJonason, Lori, Chelsey, Kristin – Mpls,
MNJulsrud, Paul & Patricia – Rochester, MNRieth, Lee &
Alissa – Overland Park, KSSpanier, Maureen – St. Cloud, MNVan
Straaten, Jack & Linda – Tucson, AZWKM Properties – Winona,
MNWoodworth, Jacob & Nora – Longville, MN
$5,000-$9,999Bornstein, Susan & Peter – North Oaks,
MNCramer, Carl & Angela – Rochester, MNCuthbert, Neal &
Louise Robinson –Minneapolis, MNDale, Katie & Charles – Fox
Island, WADavis, Nick & Julianne – Duluth, MNEsse, Ann
–Chicago, ILFrank, Megan & Aaron – Rochester, MNHolmes, Mike
& Leah – Rochester, MNHuizenga, Nancy – St. Paul, MNJulsrud,
Erik & Jennifer – Duluth, MNKempke, Sean & Ivy Wood –
Duluth, MNLink, Russell & Jolene – Longville, MNPalmer, Shaun –
Rochester, MNPalmer, Susan – Rochester, MNRecknor, Lee & Betty
Jean, Rochester, MNRich, Janet – Rochester, MNRogers, David &
Marty – Chillicothe, MOSall, Kent & Jackie – St. Paul, MNSall,
Rodney – Roseville, MNSorenson – Eric & Kristin – Rochester,
MNSchwartz, Todd & Nancy – Urbandale, IAStreet, Julie –
Rochester, MNSwanson, Margret & Mark Muellerleile -Mahtomedi,
MNVan Straaten, Jeff & Aimee – Duluth, MNVan Straaten, Michael
& Meegan– Rochester, MN
$2,500-$4,999Calhoun, Michael – Minneapolis, MNHames, Colin
& Claire – Minnetrista, MNRasmussen, Dave & Mary – Fargo,
NDSmith, Rick & Kathy – Rochester, MNSteward, Patrick -
Rochester, MNVyhlidal, Amy & Chad – Lincoln, NE
$1,000-$2,499Fagerholm, Peder – Kennesaw, GAFellenz, Terry &
LorRae – Fall Creek, WIHill, Steve & Betsy – Kirkwood,
MOKramer, Dan & Kay – St. Anthony, MNLichty, Betsy – Lakewood,
COMelby, Ken & Ruth – Decorah, IARasmussen, Mark & Kristin
– Kaneohe, HIShepard, Tom & Marit – Minneapolis, MNWood, Andrew
& Krista – Rochester, MN
$500-$999Clowers, David – Sturgeon Bay, WIEvan, Wayne &
Ellen – Tuscon, AZLetsche, Amy & Tom – Cherokee, IAMelby, Ken
& Ruth – Decorah, IASquarcia, Umberto & Lissette New York,
NY Wabedo Township – Longville, MN
$250-$499Bohan, Pual, Missoula, MTBures, Frank Jr – Minneapolis,
MNDeWispelaere, Laurie & Jay Johnson-Glenallen, AKHeinrich,
Steven & Lisa Wolfe Minneapolis, MN Jirele-Borleski, Jaime –
Winona, MNStettler, Sue – Eyota, MN
CAMP OLSON YMCA STAFFRussell Link - Executive
[email protected]
Lindsey Abrahams – Camp [email protected]
Jacob Woodworth – Facilities [email protected]
Amy Johnson – Offi ce 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 nonprofi t organi-zation. 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 do-nation. 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.
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 $_____________ ________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 $____________ In equal
installments
Over____years_____annually_____semi-annually______quarterly______monthly
VISA MASTERCARD DISCOVER AMERICAN EXPRESS
Card #__________________________________Exp___/___ CVV
code________ Signature(s):_________________________________________
Date: _________________ (If using credit card, card holder on this
line) 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]
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The Birch LogPage 10 The Birch Log Page 11
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
roof-ing installed this fall. This roofi ng project has been
outlined as part of our master plan for site & program
devel-opment 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.
Colton’s CornerFarewell Camp Olson!
My heart is full. With gratitude for all of the members of this
Camp Olson family, who have inspired, sup-ported, 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 ex-citement in giving the
reins of the program over to a dear friend Lindsey Abrahams. With
eager anticipa-tion of entering the next step in my connection
to
Camp where as a parent, I am able to watch my son “fi nd joy and
inspira-tion 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 reward-ing, and fi lled to the brim with beautiful
moments now etched in my mem-ory. 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 campfi re 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 lis-tens, collaborates, inspires, and instills the
highest values in others. Camp Olson is blessed with the strongest
of leaders. I am forever in his debt.
Offi ce Manager Amy fl ies 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 fi rst 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
Wood-worth. He’s been a part of every single summer I’ve known at
Camp Ol-son. 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.
A Farewell to ColtonBy 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-fi lled 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 fi nal 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 fi lling 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 pro-gram development), but some of his greatest
successes cannot be as easily measured, such as his positive infl
uence 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 lead-ership 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 LifetimeIn addition to guiding his
staff as they worked to preserve the Spirit of the Northwoods,
Colton also had a positive infl uence on his em-ployees’ 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 fi x 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 ExampleThroughout 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 fi rst 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 try-ing 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 fi re 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 fi re truck that had put out the raging fi re 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 fi re, 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 fi re 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 refl ect 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 offi ce 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 incred-ible.” 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 fi xture 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.
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The Birch LogPage 12 The Birch Log Page 13
Word of MouthHelp 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
expe-riences 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
fami-lies—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 organiza-tions with them.
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 ex-periences, 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!
Become a Camp Olson Ambassador!
Contact our Camp Director, Lindsey Abrahams
[email protected]. Camp Olson Ambassadors receive a packet of
brochures, dis-count 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.
GIVE THE GIFT OF CAMP THISCHRISTMAS
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
Christ-mas Certificates by be ordered by December 15, 2015.
Camp Olson Family Camp......Quality Time for the
Entire Family!
Family camp offers families an unforgettable experience with
opportunities for fun, fellow-ship, 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 on-site.
Families live in our resident cabins and are as-signed a
“counselor” for the week who offers as-sistance 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 activi-ties. 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 par-ticipate 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!
2016 Family Camp Sessions: • Family Camp Session A—August 7-13 •
Family Camp Session B—August 14-20
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 YMCAWish List updated October 2015
Items Cost Archery Equipment $1,000 Window Replacement
(residence) $4,00030 Lifejackets $80025 HP Outboard Motor
$5,000Commercial Microwave Oven $400(3) Kayaks $2,000Color Laser
Printer (high capacity) $800Used compact 4x4 pickup truck
$6,000Digital Projector $800Projector Screen $200Frontload Washer
& Dryer $2,500WaterMat 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
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The Birch LogPage 14 The Birch Log Page 15
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
transition-ing step for those who aspire to work at camp in the
future and for those who are looking for a challenging and
life-changing opportu-nity. 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 partici-pants 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, 2015Alejandro
Anariva-Ploetz - Savage, MNBlake Brown - Edina, MNMadilyn Carlson -
Minnetonka, MNAndrew Cramer - Rochester, MNAlexander Doppler -
Rochester, MNKatherine Dougherty - Rochester, MNPayton Drefcinski -
Mason, OHJoshua Evans - Wilmette, ILShayna Gnewuch - Arlington,
MAMaya Gonzalez - Fergus Falls, MNAidan Healy - Minneapolis,
MNSophie Johnson - Bethesda, MDRachael Kuhlman - Hackensack,
MNNathan Larson - Pine Island, MNAbigail Lindenfeld - Rochester,
MNOwen Mahon Walker, MNEmerald Mayer - Rochester, MNCharles
Milbrandt - Rochester, MNHarper O’Neill - Rushford, MNAliya
Orenstein - Paradise Valley, AZClaire Pishko - Phoenix, AZCarole
Plane - Fontenay, FranceMatteo Riou - Vaucresson, FranceRichard
Roden - Rochester, MNJack Rogers - Avon, MNMiles Rohrbaugh - Duluth
, MNOwen Sall - St. Paul, MNErin Todd - Rochester, MNPeter Tweed -
Naperville, ILCaroline Utz - Rochester, MNCampers (6) YMCA of
Spain
ANNUAL MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT
When: 7:30 pm Monday, Janu-ary 25, 2016Where: To Be Announced on
our websiteCan 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 vot-ed on by the
board. To do so, nominations must be submitted prior to December
20, 2015.Camp Olson YMCA4160 Little Boy Rd NELongville, MN
56655
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS
LEADERS-IN-TRAINING
Last summer our Leaders in Training program ex-panded to include
both LIT I and LIT II program op-tions for our teen campers and
aspiring young lead-ers. 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
two-week 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
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
Healthcare Staff Needed for the
2016 Summer Camp Season
Each summer 16 professional healthcare per-sonnel (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 be-coming a camp healthcare professional
please contact Executive Director Russ Link [email protected]
Now hiring for 2016the Job of a lifetime!
We are now accepting applications for all posi-tions on the 2016
Camp Olson staff. We are looking for people who are caring,
dedicated, hard-working, motivated, and who are com-fortable
working with youth in an outdoors environment. Working on staff is
a chance to be a mentor, gain skills, and grow as an indi-vidual.
In short, it could be the most challeng-ing 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 mid-November 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.
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Camp Olson YMCA4160 Little Boy Road NELongville, MN
56655218-363-2207218-363-2490
[email protected]
Sharing the Spirit of the North woods with youth, fami-
lies and their lead-ers through YMCA
Christian principled programs that build healthy mind, body
and spirit for all.~ since 1954
JOIN US THIS SUMMER and BRING A FRIEND REGISTER TODAY FOR
2016
SUMMER PROGRAMS
A Newsletter for the Camp Olson Family...
www.campolson.org [email protected]
P.O. Box 118 Longville, MN 56655