Volume LI Fall 2014A Newsletter for the Camp Olson Family

CAMP OLSON YMCATHE BIRCH LOG

At our 60th anniversary celebration this past Labor Day weekend the Camp Olson leadership unveiled and announced plans regarding our very exciting (3)60 Capital Campaign. Three projects to celebrate 60 years and invest in the long-term future of Camp Olson YMCA. The campaign totals $2.5 million and will include: • A New Kitchen with Dining Hall Improvements - $1,100,000 • New “Palace” Bathhouse - $400,000 • Endowment Growth – $1,000,000 To Preserve, Protect & Enhance our Programs & Facilities The Board of Directors has worked diligently over the past 24 months to develop this master plan and strategy for camp’s future. Out of this process has come the (3)60 campaign. We will send you information about this campaign soon. We must secure $2.5 million in gifts and pledges in order to break ground by September 2016. This campaign, more than any in Camp’s history, will have a gen-erational impact — carrying Camp Olson forward at least 60 years. With broad and generous support from the entire Camp community, this campaign assures a lasting future for Camp Olson.

We look forward to sharing more details in early 2015.Sincerely,Russell Link, Executive Director

Camp Olson YMCA (3) 60 Campaign

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President’s MessagePresident’s Message

It was wonderful to see the tremendous turnout at the Camp Olson YMCA 60th anniversary celebra-tion over Labor Day weekend. I had the opportunity to meet many of those in attendance. I enjoyed hearing stories of camp memories, connections, and the meaning of Camp Olson to each person. Camp Olson unites people with a feeling of connectedness and many expressed camp is a second family. You may have heard that the Board of Directors has endorsed its most ambitious and impactful project to date which will update the hub of camp. We authorized replacing the white palace bath house and kitchen, modify the dining hall, and raising a million dollars towards a camp endowment. The endowment is essential to the project so camp has the fi nancial stability to maintain the updated

buildings and provide fi nances during uncertain times. The kitchen, dining hall and white palace have suitably supported camp activities for decades, however these structures cannot continue to support the increased number in campers since they were created without major renovations. In the past two years the board had numerous, thoughtful discussions on reusing the current structures or building new. Camp is committed to protecting the environment and we are investigating green energy options that can be incorporated into these building projects. While my time on the board will end in January, I will still be involved in the project until the groundbreaking in the fall of 2016. In the next two years a large portion of the board’s time will be devoted to project planning; commitment to the project is shown by the large amount of capital budgeted since discussions started. I commend the Board of Directors on their foresight and courage to embark on this exciting project to improve camp’s infrastructure, which will ensure the buildings can effi ciently provide basic needs to campers and maintain these structures for decades more. Camp Olson YMCA has been successful for the past 60 years due to your generous support. This includes volunteering for work weekends, spreading the word about Camp, and fi nancially. Our annual campaign kicks off soon and your fi nancial support helps keeps the cost of camp lower for all, provide operational and scholarship funds. Please continue to support Camp Olson in every way that you can.

Sincerely,

Julie Street

The Camp Olson YMCA Board ofDirectors 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 2013-2014 Board of Directors

Julie Street – President – Rochester, MN 6th yearPat Steward – Vice President – Rochester, MN 6th yearLucy Bahn – Secretary – Rochester, MN 2nd yearSusan Bornstein – North Oaks, MN 6th yearJulianne Davis – Duluth, MN 1st yearAndy Edin – Winona, MN 4th yearBetsy Furman – St. Paul, MN 4th yearMichael Holmes – Rochester, MN 1st yearNancy Huizenga – St. Paul, MN 1st yearErik Julsrud – Duluth, MN 1st yearLee Rieth – Plymouth, MN 2nd yearKent Sall – St. Paul, MN 2nd yearThomas Shepard – Minneapolis, MN 2nd yearRick Smith – Rochester, MN 4th yearAndy Wood – Rochester, MN 1st year

CAMP OLSON YMCA STAFFRussell Link - Executive Director russ@campolson.orgColton Altobell – Camp Director colton@campolson.orgJacob Woodworth – Facilities Manager jake@campolson.orgAmy Johnson – Offi ce Manager info@campolson.org

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Counselors in Training 2015The grand finale of camper-hood at Camp Olson

The Camp Olson Counselor in Training program is the transitioning step and a rite of passage 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 experi-ence 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 employ-ment at Camp Olson. 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 31 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 current availability and register soon!Registered CIT CampersThea Bailly – Chateauroux, FranceJonathan Bauer – Iola, WIKristopher Beccafico – Les Granges, FranceMatthew Bogel – Lakeland, MNKristina Brown – Edina, MNJake Condon – Golden Valley, MNCate DeRemee – Ely, MNJacob Dyck – Rochester, MNTeresa Ferandez – Madrid, SpainSage Gibbons – Arcadia, WICasey Goodman – Chesterfield, MOCaroline Groves – Rochester, MNTheo Janke-Furman – St. Paul, MNConnor Link – Longville, MNMicah Link – Longville, MNJacob Mahon – Walker, MNRafel McDevitt-Kraljic – Elk River, MNLise Munsburg – Roskilde, DenmarkAndrew Michel – Minneapolis, MNWill Midthun – Oronoco, MNEmile Mongiat – St. Paul, MNVictor Nartovich – Rochester, MNSam Pacchetti – Rochester, MNAlbane St. Martin Tillet – Orsay, FranceThibault St. Martin Tillet – Orsay, FranceBrock Schrom – Grand Rapids, MNWill Scofield – Minneapolis, MNIan Scott – Minneapolis, MNLisa Scholtz – Hopkins, MNAnthony Sinicrope – Rochester, MNAlexander Van Nelson – Minneapolis, MN

ANNUAL MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT

When: 7:30 pm Monday January 26, 2015Where: 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 voted on by the board. To do so, nominations must be submitted prior to De-cember 20, 2014.

Camp Olson YMCA4160 Little Boy Rd NELongville, MN 56655

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The 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, 2013 – September 30, 2014. With gratitude, we extend our thanks to those who have contributed financially to benefit our camping pro-grams.

We sincerely apologize if we omitted your name. Please call the camp office so we may make the necessary corrections.

Pioneer Level ~ $2,500 +Card, Randy & Kristi Elliott – Ironton, MN City of Rochester – Rochester, MNCollins, Michael & Christine – Skokie, ILLongville Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce -- Longville, MNMayo Clinic Foundation – Rochester, MNSanger, Steve & Karen – Wayzata, MNSchwartz, Kern – Worthington, MNWallin, Brooks – Paris, FranceWallin Foundation – Minneapolis, MN

Trailblazer Level ~ $1,000- $2,499

Backlund, Jim & Theresa – Rochester, MNBornstein, Peter & Susan -North Oaks, MNBrown, Mary – St. Paul, MN Campbell, Jim & Carmen — Edina, MNC.O. Brown – Rochester, MNCrow Wing Power Community Trust --Brainerd, MNEstry, Richard & Kathleen – Rochester, MNFougerousse, Jerry & Kathy -West Dundee, ILFurman, Betsy – St. Paul, MNHansen, William Sr. – Longville, MN

Hughes, Honore – Maplewood, MOKempke, Sean & Ivy Wood – Duluth, MNKramer, Dan & Kay – St. Anthony, MNLake Country Power Electric Trust -- Mountain Iron, MNLuker, Sandra – Eden Prairie, MNMahon, KerriAnn – Willmar, MNMiller, Wil & Jes – Winona, MNOswald, Katy – Minneapolis, MNPerkins Foundation – Wayzata, MNRecknor, Lee & Betty Jean--Rochester, MNRich, Janet – Rochester, MNRieth, Jim & Theresa – Spicer, MNSalem Lutheran Church --Longville, MNSall, Rod – Roseville, MNShepard, Peter & Megan Perkins – Santa Fe, NMStifel Nicolaus – Rochester, MNStreit, Peter & Karen – Rochester, MN Steward, Patrick – Rochester, MNTharp, Michael & Julia – Little Rock, AR Wallin,Lance – Wayzata, MNWoodworth, Pete & Joyce – Winona, MN

Voyager Level ~ $500-$999

Altobell, Colton & Caitlin – Longville, MNBahn, Mark & Lucy – Rochester, MNBiesanz, Nicholas – Winona, MNBiesanz, Scott & Jane – Winona, MNBrown, Frank & Alice – St. Cloud, MNCuthbert, Neal & Louise Robinson-- Minneapolis, MNCutlip, George – Madison, WIEdin, Andrew & Becky – Winona, MNEvans, Wayne & Ellen – Tucson, AZFeeser, Hollis & Pat – Rochester, MNFellenz, Terry & LorRae – Fall Creek, WIFleming, Kevin & Mari – Rochester, MNGilkes, Mary Louise – Green Valley, AZGross, Chad & Shelly – Freeport, MNHames, Colin & Claire – Minnetrista, MNHaus, Mike & Cindy – Prior Lake, MNHill, Steve and Elizabeth – Kirkwood, MOHolmes, Mike & Leah – Rochester, MN Huizenga, Nancy – St. Paul, MNJulsrud, Paul & Patricia – Rochester, MNLenoir, Martin & Susan – Highlands Ranch, COLink, Russ & Jolene – Longville, MNLongville Area Community Foundation

-- Longville, MNMontag, Susan – St. Cloud, MNMoynihan, Tim & Lindy Hankel – Rochester, MNNoerenberg, Scott & Jean – Plymouth, MNSchwartz, Todd & Nancy – Urbandale, IAShepard, Chuck & Judy – Winona, MNShepard, Tom & Marit – Minneapolis, MNSorenson, Eric & Kristin – Rochester, MNSpanier, Maureen – St. Cloud, MNSquarcia, Umberto & Lissette – New York, NYStettler, Todd & Sue – Eyota, MNStreet, Julie – Rochester, MNSwanson, Margret –Mahtomedi, MNThomson, Curt & Dana – Peyton, COUhlenhopp, John – Santa Fe, NMVan Straaten, Jack & Linda – Tucson, AZWood, E. Andrew – Rochester, MNWoodworth, Jacob & Nora – Longville, MNWoodworth, Lindsey – Plymouth, MNWoodworth, Nathan & Becky – Winona, MN

Discoverer Level ~ $250-$499

Anderson, Gail – Rochester, MNArenberg, Dan & Deborah – Lemont, ILArenberg, John & Cathy – Cary, ILArvig Communications -- Perham, MNBenike, Jim & Lorraine – Rochester, MNCard, Norm & Kathy – Federal Dam, MNCarey, Richard & Jean – Nisswa, MNCharpentier, Con & Carol – Longville, MNCrowley, Tom and Deb – Rochester, MN Davis, Nick & Julianne – Duluth, MNEsser, Andrew & Kim – LaCrescent, MNFritz, Dorothea & Randall – Rochester, MNFujimori, Taro and Maureen – Shrewsbury, MAGreer, Joyce – Zumbro Falls, MN

Hartson, George – Minneapolis, MNHeins, Laura – Rochester, MN Hoban, Tom & Susan – Fridley, MNHuizenga, Nancy – St. Paul, MN

Jonason, Lori – Minneapolis, MNMelby, Kenneth & Ruth – Decorah, IAMelton, L.C. & Jane – Rochester, MNMerchants Bank – Rochester, MNMiclau, Theodore & Kirsten – San Francisco, CAMiller, Linda – Rochester, MNMiner, Jerome – Duluth, MNMosher, Kristine – Ely, MNNartovich, Aleksandr & Natalia – Rochester, MNNaugle, Pete & Margaret – Walker, MNPalmer, Shaun – Rochester, MNQualey, Dave & Marsha – Eau Claire, WIRasmussen, David & Mary – Fargo, NDRohrbaugh, Leon & Britt – Duluth, MNSall, Kent & Jacqueline – St. Paul, MNSchwartz Family Fund- St. Paul, MNSmith, Rick & Kathy – Rochester, MNStafford, Scott & Jacqueline – Rochester, MNStettler, Todd & Sue – Eyota, MNStifel Nicolaus – St. Louis, MOTeneyck, Dave & Lisa Wigand – Brainerd, MNTjaden, Jacob – St. Paul, MNTrewick, Sam & Chad – Minneapolis, MNWindebank, Anthony – Zumbro Falls, MNWilke, Skip – St. Paul, MNWong, Jeffrey & Pam Olson – Middleton, WI

This issue and past issues of the Birch Log are available

in full color on our website at campolson.org

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Explorer Level ~ $100-$249

Altobell, Steve – Fountain City, WIAltobell, Troy – Portland, ORAnderson, Ben & Therese – St. Paul, MNArneson, Cary & Pat – Woodbury, MNAugustine, Janene – West New York, NJBeard, Norma & Adam – Austin, MNBarsness, Larry & Sharon – Rochester,MN Beck, David – Missoula, MTBlegen, David & Peggy – Rochester, MNBrown, Ken & Lucy – Minneapolis, MNBures, Frank & Ruth – Winona, MNButler, Jordan – Plymouth, MNCarpenter, Jerry or Janet – Longville, MNCarpenter, Scott & Karen – Longville, MNCarter, Ched – Oak Park, IL Cartney, Joe & Sharleen – Byron, MNCook, G. Bradford – Bethesda, MDCrowley, Tom & Debra – Rochester, MNDale, Katie – Fox Island, WADeWispelaere, Angie & Hans Schernthane -- Big Sky, MTDonaldson, Jim & Leigh – Morgan Hill, CA Dougherty, Margaret – Rochester, MNElliot, Sondra – St. Paul, MNFerguson, Dana – St. Paul, MNFirst Nat’l Bank of Walker – Walker, MNFortin, Anne – St. Charles, ILFranklin, Daryl & Joan – Austin, MNFritz, Carolyn – Grand Marais, MNGeerdes, Pamela – Rochester, MNGilkinson, Jim & Julie – Rochester, MNGoellner, John & Annette – Rochester, MN Hagen, Mikaela – Madison, WIHahn, Anne – Bedford, INHanson, Nicole – Rochester, MNHauser, Stephen & Eleanor -- Rochester, MN Harris, Wayne – Rochester, MNHazama, Charles – Rochester, MN Heinrich, Stephen & Lisa – Mpls, MNHeins, Marvin & Barbara – Rochester, MNHeuton, D. & Carol – Rochester, MNHodge, Dan – Rochester, MNHuizenga, Hugh – Norwich, VTKatter, John & Sally – Palo Alto, CA Kennedy, Diane – Winona, MNKerr, Don & Phyllis – Woodland, MNKickertz, Fred & Betty – Plymouth, MNKierlin, Bob – Winona, MNKramer, Dan & Kay – St. Anthony, MNKramer Jr., Daniel – Minneapolis, MNLantz, Charles & Vickie – Rochester, MNLarson, Tim & Sarah – Rochester, MNLee, David & Elizabeth – St. Paul, MNLetsche, Tom & Amy – Cherokee, IA

Lichty, Betsy – Lakewood, COLitin, Scott – Rochester, MNLitzow, Mark & Kris – Rochester, MNLong, Ann – St. Paul, MNLutz, Janice – Fremont, NEMatenaer, Kristine – St. Paul, MNMcAlpine, Korla – Missoula, MTMidthun, David & Vivien – Oronoco, MNMontag, Susan – St. Cloud, MNMunden, Don and Melody – Albert Lea, MNNordquist, Alan & Sandy – Apple Valley, MNNorthern Star Coop – Deer River, MNOverhaug, Larry & Chris – Winona, MNPerkins, Sara – Brooklyn, NYPertzborn, Leslie & James – Chapel Hill, NCRasmussen, Mark – Kaneohe, HIRichardson, Colleen – St. Paul, MNRieth, Lee & Alissa – Plymouth, MNRogers, David & Marty – Chillicothe, MOSalem Lutheran Church, Longville, MNSall, Jennifer – St. Paul, MNShepard, Tom & Marit – Minneapolis, MNSholtz, Peter & Jane – Hopkins, MNShriver, Brian & Christine – Maplewood, MNSilber, Michael & Sandra – Rochester, MNSklar, Michael & Lisa – Boulder, COStaats, Bruce & Brenda – Rochester, MN

Tarara, William & Kathleen – Rochester, MNTauxe, Robert & Cynthia – Atlanta, GAThompson, Brandi – Elmwood, WI Vanlaningham, Glenn & Ella – Rochester, MNWashburn, Fran & Kathy – Rochester, MNWhite-Corey, Shelley – College Station, TXWindebank, Sharon – Rochester, MNWinona Post – Winona, MNWomer, David & Dana – Crystal, MNWood, Andrew & Krista – Rochester, MNYoung Walser, Bob & Julie – Mpls, MN

Pathfinder Level ~ $1-$99

Anchorage Inn -- Longville, MNAnderson, Terri – Plymouth, MNArnquist, Tim & Kit – Boy River, MNBakken, Amanda – Evanston, ILBenscoter, Walter & Kathryn – Rochester, MNBergen, Judi & Dick -- Austin, MNBurton, Randy & Barbara – Rochester, MNButler, Christopher – Rochester, MNCachiaras, John & Dorothy – Rochester, MNCalhoun, Michael – Hopkins, MNCanan, Tom – Rochester, MNChisholm, Jane – Atlanta, GACrowley, Tom & Debra – Rochester, MN Espeset, Pat & Paul – Rochester, MNEwoldt, Russell & Bette – Plymouth, MNFelton, Carolyn – Winona, MNGaworecki, Katie – Engadine, AustraliaGray, Theresa & Kasey – Falcon Hgts, MNHaider, Michael & Patricia – Pine Island, MNHanna, Matthew & Melissa – Chanhassen, MNHarberts, Dale & Jane – Rochester, MN Hatfield, Tim & Susan – Winona, MNHauser, Katherine – Rochester, MNHazelton, Beth – Grand Marais, MNHepper, Norm & Charmaine – Rochester, MNHeyne, George & Carolyn – Rochester, MNHolland, Joe & Lois – Rochester, MNHuizenga, Carolyn – Oak Lawn, IL

Hunter, Melissa – Oakdale, MNIhrig, Robert & Gail – Mankato, MNJohnston, Molly –Ely, MNJohnston, Stuart & Carol – Decorah, IAJonason, Chelsey – Minneapolis, MNJonason, Kristen – Minneapolis, MNKennedy, Kathleen – St. Paul, MNKirk, M. J. – Fridley, MNKlaus, Katherine – Rochester, MNKrage, Sue – Lewistown, MTKust, Jennifer – St. Paul, MNLeingang, Lyndsay – Cohasset, MNLink, Connor – Longville, MNLink, Micah – Longville, MNLink, Tom & Georgia – Rosholt, WILinnes, Joanne – Rochester, MNLukenda, Mara – Rochester, MNMahon, Jay – Walker, MN Malinchoc, Michael – Rochester, MNMayer, Stan & Amy – Rochester, MNMcConahey, Laura – St. Louis Park, MNMesarchik, Robert & Marie – Rochester, MN Moore, Gary & Julie – Wayzata, MNMunger, Tom & Janet – Rochester, MN Munz, Thomas & Janet – Mount Prospect, ILOgard, Rachel – Eagan, MNOhnesorge, Richard & Janice – Longville, MN

The Birch LogPage 6Petters, Jon & Colleen – Avon, MNPleasants, Debra – St. Paul, MN Pursell, Kristi – Minneapolis, MNRasmussen, Dave & Mary –Fargo, NDRogers, Stephanie – Minneapolis, MNSchumacher, Daniel – Davenport, IASimpson, Bill & Beverly – Sioux Falls, SDSmithson, Tony & Judy – Rochester, MNSoderlund, Dawn – Duluth, MNSpanier, Matthew – Minneapolis, MNSt. George, Rebecca – Duluth, MNSumption, Lissa – Longville, MNSweeney, Kathy – Longville, MNToepke, David & Sharon – New Salem, NDUnterholzner, Laura – Rochester, MNVeldhuizen, Mark – Rochester, MNWheeler, Jessica – Red Wing, MNWick, Al & Patricia – Rochester, MN

Wish List Gifts$5,000 - $10,000 Card, Randy & Kristi Elliott – Ironton, MN $1,000-$2,499Longville Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce --Longville, MNPalmer, Shaun – Rochester, MNRich, Janet – Rochester, MN

$500-$999Woodworth, Lindsey – Plymouth, MN

$250-$499Crowley, Tom and Deb – Rochester, MNMelby, Ken & Ruth – Decorah, IATrewick, Sam & Chad – Mpls, MN

$100-$249Bahn, Mark & Lucy – Rochester, MNElliott, Bill & Jan – Longville, MNRich, Janet – Rochester, MN

Memorial & Honor Gifts Bakke, John – Rochester, MN In Memory of Marie MesarchikBlohm, Irene – Rochester, MN In Memory of Marie MesarchikCard, Norm & Kathy – Federal Dam, MN In Honor of Randy Card & Kristi ElliottDouty, Mark & Bonnie – Dexter, MN In Memory of Allie FellenzElliott, Sondra -- St. Paul, MN In Honor of Kristi Elliott & Randy Card In Honor of Linda & Bill Thompson’s December BirthdaysFellenz, Terry & LorRae – Fall Creek, WI In Memory of Dan Geske In Memory of Dale Schindler In Memory of Rae Ormsby In Honor of Dave Rogers’ Retirement In Honor of Allie Fellenz In Honor of Alice Maeder In Memory of Ron EngstFougerousse, Jerry & Kathy – West Dundee, IL In Memory & Spirit of Dan & Arlene ArenbergFrame, Bill & Sandy – Pine Island, MN In Memory of Marie MesarchikFranklin, Daryl & Joan – Austin, MN In Honor of Lee Recknor’s 70th BirthdayFurman, Betsy – St. Paul, MN In Memory of Frank BrownGangestad, LaVonne – Rochester, MN In Memory of Marie MesarchikGiese, Gerald & Virginia – Mantorville, MN In Memory of Marie MesarchikGilkinson, Jim & Julie – Rochester, MN

In Honor of Bill & Linda Thompson’s B-daysHeuton, D. & C. – Rochester, MN In Honor of Lee Recknor’s 70th BirthdayJonason, Chelsey – Minneapolis, MN In Honor of Alex ‘Malindactyl’ and his Commitment to outlandish regatta skitsKirk, M. J. – Fridley, MN In Honor Lee Recknor’s 70th BirthdayKlauda, Frank – Rochester, MN In Memory of Marie MesarchikKlobuchar, Richard – Rochester, MN In Memory of Marie MesarchikKramer, Dan & Kay – St. Anthony, MN In Honor of Lee Recknor’s 70th BirthdayLichty, Betsy – Lakewood, CO In Memory of Ann and Bob LichtyLink, Russ & Jolene – Longville, MN In Memory of Bill McBride In Honor of Lee Recknor 70th BirthdayLundberg, R. E. & K. R. In Memory of Marie MesarchikNordquist, Alan & Sandy – Apple Valley, MN In Memory of Allie Fellenz

In Memory of Alice MaederPalmer, Shaun – Rochester, MN In Memory of Jule Block In Memory of Ella Mae SallPersuitti, Kevin & Kathleen –Andover, MN In Memory of Marie Mesarchik

Rasmussen, Mark – Kaneohe, HI In Honor of Dave & Mary RasmussenReetz, Dale & Diane – Fall Creek, WI

In Memory of Allie FellenzRieth, Lee & Alyssa – Plymouth, MN In Honor of James RiethRosencrants, E. W. & Gloria – Rochester, MN In Memory of Marie MesarchikSchoonover, Carol – Rochester, MN In Memory of Marie MesarchikSchwartz Family Fund – St. Paul, MN On Behalf of Lily and MiaSwenson, Charles & Sandra – Minot, ND In Honor of Pat and Paul JulsrudTumm, Hazel – Fall Creek, WI In Memory of Allie Fellenz

In Kind Gifts Benike, James – Rochester, MNCard/Elliott, Randy & Kristi – Ironton, MNCarpenter, Scott & Karen – Longville, MNDavis, Nick & Julianne – Duluth, MNElliott, Bill & Jan – Longville, MNJohnson, Pierce – River Forest, ILKreibrink, Glen – East Troy, WILetsche, Tom & Amy – Cherokee, IALindmeier, David & Lynne - St. Cloud, MNMalt-O-Meal Corp. – Northfield, MNMorrison, Steve & Ann – Minneapolis, MNMosher, Kristine – Ely, MNSchwartz, Kern – Worthington, MNShepard, Peter – Santa Fe, NMSwanson, Stewart – Rochester, MNWagner, Sean – Whitebear Lake, MNWashburn, Fran & Kathy – Rochester, MNWoodworth, Lindsey – Plymouth, MNYoumans, Jay – Rochester, MNYoung At Heart Club – Longville, MN

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Give to the Max Day – Thursday November 13Give to the Max Day in Minnesota is Thursday November 13. The on-line giving day begins at 12:01 AM on Thursday and end at 11:59:59 PM. If you prefer to make you annual donation to camp online this is a great day to make it happen.

This is the day where awesomeness happens. GiveMN links generous people like you with Camp Olson YMCA by making giving simple, re-warding and fun.

Schedule Your Giving

Starting on November 1, 2014, you’ll be able to schedule your donations on GiveMN.org. It’s simple. Go to GiveMN.org, search for Camp Olson YMCA, visit the organization’s page and select the scheduled giving option on the donation form. It’s a great way to participate even if you’re out of town or just like to plan ahead. Scheduled giving will be available between November 1 and November 13.

GiveMN Golden Ticket Prize Incentives

The GiveMN Golden Ticket prize incentives are a repeat for 2014! Golden Tickets are awarded through an hourly random drawing that adds $1,000 to an individual donation.

Two Golden Tickets will be awarded each hour during Give to the Max Day 2014 – one will be drawn from an individual donation made to a nonprofi t, and another will be drawn from an individual donation made to a school.

At the end of the day, two Super-Sized Golden Tickets worth $10,000 each will be awarded to two organizations through a random drawing – one will go to a nonprofi t, and one will go to a school.

(3)60 Capital Campaign Gifts & Pledges

$25,000 +

Bahn, Mark & Lucy – Rochester, MNKuechenmeister EstateRieth, Jim & Theresa – Spicer, MNTitus, Michael – Denver, CO

$10,000-$24,999

Collins, Michael & Christina—Winnetka, ILEdin, Andrew & Becky – Winona, MNFurman, Betsy & Beth Janke – St. Paul, MNPalmer, Shaun & Sue & Family, Rochester, MNSpanier, Maureen – St. Cloud, MN

$5,000-$9,999

Davis, Nick & Julianne – Duluth, MNEdin, Matthew & Heather —Cary, NCGlaxoSmithKline – Philadelphia, PAHolmes, Mike & Leah – Rochester, MNHuizenga, Nancy – St. Paul, MNJulsrud, Erik & Jennifer – Duluth, MNLink, Russell & Jolene – Longville, MNSall, Kent & Jackie – St. Paul, MNStreet, Julie – Rochester, MNWoodworth, Jacob & Nora – Longville, MN

$2,500-$4,999

Bornstein, Peter & Susan – North Oaks, MNCalhoun Mike – Minneapolis, MNRieth, Lee & Alissa – Overland Park, KSSchwartz, Kern & Jean – Worthington, MNSmith, Rick & Kathy – Rochester, MNSteward, Patrick & Patricia – Rochester, MNYMCA of Austin, MN

$1,000-$2,499

Fagerholm, Peder – Kennesaw, GAHames, Colin & Claire – Minnetrista, MN Kramer, Dan & Kay –St. Anthony, MNRecknor, Lee & Betty Jean -- Rochester, MNSall, Rod – Roseville, MNShepard, Tom & Marit – Minneapolis, MNVanStraaten, Jeff & Aimee – Duluth, Wood, Andrew & Krista – Rochester, MN

$500-$999

Evans, Wayne and Ellen – Tucson, AZSquarcia, Umbi & Lissette – New York, NY

$250-$499

Bohan, Paul – Missoula, MTBures, Frank & Bridgit Jordan – Minneapolis, MNHeinrich, Steve & Lisa Wolfe – Minneapolis, MNMelby, Ken & Ruth – Decorah, IA

$1-$249

Recknor, Glen – Rochester, MNWhite-Corey, Shelley – College Station, TX

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Three Receive Camp Olson’s Highest Honor

Quilt benefits Camp Olson YMCA The Loving Hands Community Quilt Club donated a quilt to the silent auction held during our 60th Anniver-sary Celebration. The auction offered an array of hand-made items inspired by Camp Olson. Proceeds raised will support the camper scholarship fund. The quilt received heavy bidding over the weekend which was at-tended by over 280 alumni and friends. The winning bid for the quilt came in at $1,150!

The Loving Hands Community Quilt Club meets one day a week January–March. Most of the quilts made benefit local food shelf clients, homeless shelters, and people in great need. The group is comprised of about 30 talented women that live here in the North Country. Through the support of the local community and dona-tions continue to serve those in need. In only their third season they have already made 301 tied quilts! Melaine Mix, an organizer of the club said, “I can guarantee each and every one is made with love! The women that make up this awesome group have hearts bigger than you can ever imagine.”

A special thank you is expressed to quilter Rhende Hagemeister who took the lead on creating the custom quilt for Camp Olson YMCA. Rhende has her own quilt-ing machine and studio. She has a passion for helping others, and loves to quilt and sew. Through that passion, she organized members of the Little Loving Hands Quilt Club to create this spectacular quilt for the Camp Olson YMCA 60th anniversary.

Camp Olson YMCA provided over $94,000 in scholar-ship assistance to youth during the 2014 summer.

Nine past board Presidents were in attendance at the 60th anniversary celebration. Bottom row: Eric Soren-son, Shaun Palmer, Hollis Feeser, current President Julie Street. Top row: Dick Perkins, Phil Chamberlain, Bill Elliott, Todd Schwartz and Margret Swanson. Jim Rieth escaped before the photo was taken.

Award recipients Terry Fellenz, Pierce Johnson & Lee Recknor.

18 recipients have now received the award. Past recipients include: Max Clowers, Les Blacklock, Clem Peterson, Holly Hughes, Col-leen Hughes, Ray Mork, Hollis Feeser, Gaylord Thomson, Dave Rogers, Dick Perkins, Shaun Palmer, Bill Elliott, Ken Huizenga, and Janet Rich.

The Keeper of the Dream award was presented at the 60th Anni-versary Celebration to three deserving individuals. The award was established in 1977. It honors those who are dedicated to Camp Olson YMCA and their altruistic commitment and impact is recog-nized as outstanding.

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Colton’s CornerThe Spirit of Music at Camp Olson

“Music is the universal language of mankind” — Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

An important element of the Spirit of the Northwoods has always been music. As long as campers and counselors have walked this land, broken bread in the dining hall, and

gathered around the campfire music of all sorts has filled the air. For someone who lives at camp, it is noticeably absent in the autumn once summer ends.

As a young man, my determination to pick up the guitar can be traced to a specific moment around the fire as a homesteader. Andy Healy joined us and picked and sang the Bob Dylan song, “Don’t think twice, it’s alright”. I started practicing the day I got home. My first time leading a song as CIT, I recall shaking and sweating with stage fright. The patient crowd suffered through a false start and few missed chords, but they clapped and cheered all the same. Each time got a little bit easier. Each summer, so many young people are similarly inspired and learn to let go of their fears like I did. It’s the magic of music at Camp.

As we closed out Camp’s 60th summer with a reunion, the significance of music was a common thread through many of the stories and activities that were shared. Those who worked or attended Camp Olson during the split-gender summers recall the beautiful, harmonious tunes of girls’ camp and the booming, chant-filled songs of boys’ camp. Songs were shared around the many evening campfires and performed at the Big O Variety Show.

Many songs and graces are still in the Camp rotation today though they may have evolved in verse and melody. Alumni, Michael Collins, provided us with a 60th Anniversary edition of the Camp Olson songbook, updating and adding to the anthology compiled by Kristin Sorenson for the 50th Anniversary celebra-tion.

This common thread of music made for one of the most memo-rable moments of the weekend. Saturday evening of the celebra-tion, we all gathered at the Thomson Trips Center for a cookout and some fun. After the meal, alumni generations traded control of the song-leading. Then, for a delightful hour or two, the groups melded, singing and playing together the songs we all knew. Fiddlers, guitars, ukuleles, mandolins, drums, and bass all joined in accompaniment. And in that moment, we were in so many ways one big Camp Olson family. Here’s too many more years of musical tradition in the Spirit of the Northwoods!

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Camp Olson YMCAWish List updated Oct. 1, 2014

Items Cost Archery Equipment $1,000 30 Lifejackets $70040 HP Outboard Motor $5,000Commercial Microwave Oven $400(6) Internal Frame Backpacks $1,0003 Kayaks $2,0003 Canoes $3,6003 Stand Up Paddle Boards $1,2006 Paddle Board Paddles $45020 Canoe Paddles $600Color Laser Printer (high capacity) $800Used compact 4x4 pickup truck $5,0003 Laptop Computers $1,00020 Rod & Reel Combs $600 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 russ@campolson.org or call 218-363-2207

A taste of Camp at home Is there anything tastier than a golden piece of fried bannock hot off the pan? Of course, some like it a little doughy in the middle, or scrambled in the pan. And even a little burned it’s eminently edible. If you’ve ever been on a Camp Olson overnight or trip, then you know exactly what we are talking about. With so many requests, we want to share the secret so you can create a little bit of Camp at home!Ingredients: • 4 cups flour • 2 Tablespoons baking powder • ¼ cup dry milk • 1/3 tablespoon salt • ½ cup shortening • 1 cup warm water

Mix flour, baking powder, dry milk, and salt. Gradually add in the shortening and water. Add only enough water to make dough into a thick pancake consistency. Cover them with a towel for 10 minutes then you are ready to fry.

Fry in hot cooking oil in cast iron skillet until brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels and serve with jam, cinnamon & sugar, or garlic powder—whatever flavor you like! NOTE: Best results are achieved by cooking over a real wood fire!

In-Kind Donations a Great Benefitto Camp

Do You Have Something for Us?

Below is a list of items that were donated to Camp Olson YMCA this past year. Might you have some-thing to donate to camp?

• Cereal for the entire summer • Mini Van • Used but Good laptop computer • (2) C-Scow Sailboat • J-Scow Sailboat • Windsurfing Equipment • Kayaks • Washer & Dryer • Lawn Mower • Nature Center Books • Camping Equipment • Fishing Equipment • Canoe Paddles

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We all know someone who could benefit from a Camp Olson experience

Help us spread the Camp Olson Spirit!

Camp Olson served a record number of campers in the summer of 2014, op-erating at about 92% capacity, overall. Still, we remain focused on our com-mitment 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 maintain-ing 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 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 benefit from those expeiences, too. They are your extended fam-ily members, friends, co-workers, and neighbors. You attend church, youth sports, or social organizations 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 infor-mation 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 • Awesome 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, over night 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 time • Options for younger and first time campers that provide continuous supervision 24/7 o Pathfinder camp sessions (6-nights) o 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. $96,000 in scholarships and discounts were awarded in 2014!

Become a Camp Olson Ambassador!Contact our Camp Director, Colton Altobell colton@campolson.org. Camp Olson Ambassadors receive a packet of brochures, discount certificates for new families, and a special gift! Colton 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 an-swer 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 Christmas Certificates by be ordered by December 15, 2014.

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Camp Olson Family Camp—quality time for the whole 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 on-site.

Families live in our resident cabins and are assigned a “counselor” for the week who offers assistance and who you will get to know person-ally 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: regat-tas, 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 inti-mate option, but a great way to divide the cost!

2015 Family Camp Sessions:• Family Camp Session A—August 9-15th

• Family Camp Session B—August 16-22nd

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 2015 Family Camp can be found on our website: www.campolson.org/family-camp

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60th Anniversary Photo Highlights

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Memorial Day Work Weekend 2015 Calling All Alumni and Friends!

Your help is most needed and appreciated!Camp Olson would not be ready for summer each year if it were not for the valuable effort of volunteers willing to assist us in preparing. This is your invitiation tocome spend the weekend in the Northwoods for some fun, fellow-ship and most rewarding work. We’ll provide the food, lodging and campfires; you provide the hands and energy. All family members are welcome! Below is a tentative schedule, please complete the attached reservation form and mail to Camp Olson prior to May 10th. You are welcome for all or part of the weekend. Donations to offset food expenses are appreciated.

Friday May 22 – 6:00-10:00 Arrival/Cabin Assignments

Saturday May 23 – 8:00 Breakfast/Introduction/Safety Review 9-12:00 Work Projects, 12:00 Lunch, 1:00-4:00 Work Projects,5:00 Dinner, 7:00 Campfire.

Sunday May 24 - 8:00 Breakfast/Introduction/Safety Review 9-12:00 Work Projects, 12:00 Lunch, 1:00-4:00 Work Projects,5:00 Dinner, 7:00 Campfire.

Monday May 25 – 9:00 Continental Breakfast, Enjoy Camp Thank you for all your efforts, travel home safely.

For more information contact the camp office: info@campolson.org

CampInTouch – Our online portal for parents, alumni and staffFor so many, camp is a place to unplug, to return to a simpler time without the distractions and trappings of our modern society. It should always be that way.

Yet, as we strive to maintain that experience, we have found certain technologies that can make us safer, more efficient, and less wasteful. It’s a delicate balance! When we embrace a modern tool, it is always with tentative steps and an eye toward our roots. Camp Olson strives to remain an organization that is small enough to have a personal touch and the feeling of family.

The CampInTouch system was launched last February and has provided some powerful benefits within Camp’s operations and for parents’ ability to register, submit forms, and stay connected while their camper is at Camp Olson. The system works with our staff, too, for applications, references, and important forms.

Alumni can sign in and use the system to see what’s happening at camp, update contact information, chat on the Alumni Mes-sage Board, and connect with fellow alumni.

Many of the advantages are long-term, too! All family profiles carry over year after year. Individual camper profiles can fol-low them through as they become staff members, alumni, and camper parents in their own right! The process is streamlined for returning campers as individual information carries over within registration and camper forms. Here in the Camp Olson Office, we are able to collect and organize important information for both our counselors and Health Care Staff. We save a ton of time and paper/postage when it comes ensuring that we are ready to provide for each individual camper.

During the summer, parents can use the same account to view daily photos and send camper emails. Viewing the daily photos is absolutely free, while high quality prints are available for purchase. Camper emails cost about $1 each. Think of these as instant mail, faster and cheaper than any next-day letter service, and it is quite a bargain. Camp only receives a nominal percentage of the revenue from these purchases.

As always, our Office Manager, Amy, is on-hand to assist you over the phone from 9:00am-4:00pm Monday-Friday for the entirety of the off-season if you need that personal touch!

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OLSON’S 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 pro-gram 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 climb-ing 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 and live in group tents at camp before and after their trip.

As your camper looks ahead in their camping career, it is recom-mended (but NOT required) that campers begin with LIT I and proceed to LIT II the following summer.

2015 Leaders-in-Training Sessions:LIT I (4-day canoe trip)

• LIT23—June 14-27th• LIT67—July 12-25th

LIT II (8-day canoe trip)• LIT45—June 28-July 11th

• LIT89—July 26-August 8th

Now hiring for 2015—the Job of a lifetime!We are now accepting applications for all positions on the 2015 Camp Olson staff. We are looking for people who are caring, dedicated, hard-working, motivated, and who are comfortable working 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 chal-lenging 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 2015 staff training events: May 1-3rd or May 31-June 6th. Contact colton@campolson.org with any questions.

Healthcare Staff Needed for the 2015 Summer Camp Season

Each summer 18 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 becom-ing a camp healthcare professional please contact Executive Director Russ Link russ@campolson.org

Camp Olson YMCA4160 Little Boy Road NELongville, MN 56655218-363-2207218-363-2490 faxwww.campolson.orginfo@campolson.org

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

JOIN US THIS SUMMER and BRING A FRIEND REGISTER TODAY FOR 2015

SUMMER PROGRAMS

A Newsletter for the Camp Olson Family...

www.campolson.org info@camposlon.org

P.O. Box 118 Longville, MN 56655