Check out what Gianna has to say about her Orkila experience!
Showing posts with label Staff Spotlights. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Staff Spotlights. Show all posts
April 26, 2014
January 14, 2014
Staff Sound-Off: Julie
It rarely rains here at Camp Orkila, but can you still have fun if it does? Counselor Julie answers that and more in this Staff Sound-Off!
Staff Sound Off | Julie from Camp Orkila on Vimeo.
November 26, 2012
OSI Spotlight: Sam!
Have you ever wanted to gain a deeper understanding of camp, from behind-the-scenes to creating camp magic for a camper? Each summer 40 passionate 17-year-olds are accepted into the Orkila Summer Internship Program and they get to do just that!
Here is what Sam, an OSI from last summer, has to say about being an OSI and Camp Orkila!
Hey Sam! Tell us about all your good times at Orkila!
I have been going to camp for nine years and I have continued to come back to camp not only for the kids who return year after year (I love to watch them grow up!), but I also come back for myself. I consistently return home after camp a more centered and better person every year. It is a place where I can be me and enjoy every moment of it.
That is wonderful to hear. Is there any highlight you have from last summer as an OSI?
There is no one moment that was the "highlight" of my OSI experience, but every so often I would get this feeling that Orkila was exactly where I was supposed to be in a that moment. That was a really great feeling and I hope I will be able to feel that sense of rightness wherever I go now. Camp set the bar pretty high!
We love that feeling too. Is there something that you learned from being an OSI that you would like to share with us?
Ok, this is going to sound cheesy, but it's actually true. I learned through the OSI program that every person comes from a different background and has different perspectives in various situations. What may be no problem for one camper is a huge stretch for another.
So true. To finish things off, what is your all-time favorite camp song!?
My favorite camp song is the Moose and Juice song. I love teaching it to the girls in my cabin!
Thanks Sam!
Here is what Sam, an OSI from last summer, has to say about being an OSI and Camp Orkila!
I have been going to camp for nine years and I have continued to come back to camp not only for the kids who return year after year (I love to watch them grow up!), but I also come back for myself. I consistently return home after camp a more centered and better person every year. It is a place where I can be me and enjoy every moment of it.
That is wonderful to hear. Is there any highlight you have from last summer as an OSI?
There is no one moment that was the "highlight" of my OSI experience, but every so often I would get this feeling that Orkila was exactly where I was supposed to be in a that moment. That was a really great feeling and I hope I will be able to feel that sense of rightness wherever I go now. Camp set the bar pretty high!
We love that feeling too. Is there something that you learned from being an OSI that you would like to share with us?
Ok, this is going to sound cheesy, but it's actually true. I learned through the OSI program that every person comes from a different background and has different perspectives in various situations. What may be no problem for one camper is a huge stretch for another.
So true. To finish things off, what is your all-time favorite camp song!?
My favorite camp song is the Moose and Juice song. I love teaching it to the girls in my cabin!
Thanks Sam!
June 26, 2012
Staff Spotlight: Giles Ray
The time for camp is drawing closer and closer! In preparation for this summer we sat down with Giles Ray to see what he has been up to in the past year as well as what he will be doing here at camp!
Giles Ray
Orkila, Orkila: What is your history with camp? What units were you in as a camper, and what have you done as a staff member? What will you be doing this year?
GR: I've been involved with camp since I was only 4 or 5 years old. I was in Y-Guides with my dad until I was finally old enough to go to summer camp and I signed up for that as soon as I could. As a camper I was a Goodie, LizardHead, Mount Baker, GreyWolf, Archery Camp, Farm Camp, LDI, and CIT. As a staff member I have worked with LizardHeads, GreyWolves, A-Team, and Teen Expeditions. This year I am super excited to be working on the A-Team again!
Orkila, Orkila: What have you been up to this year? Where are you right now!?
GR: This year has been a lot of focus on finishing up high school, but in any spare time I have been spending as much time as I can outside climbing, hiking, and skiing. I also have been involved with the YRCLP program with camp as well as volunteering on the PWY campaign in the winter. Right now I'm actually interning with the camp directors at the Seattle offices for my Senior Project!
Orkila, Orkila: What's your favorite part of camp and what keeps you coming back?
GR: For me the greatest thing about camp, and also the thing that keeps me coming back every year is the amazing relationships that you make with all sorts of people at camp, both campers and counselors. Some of my best friends and the most amazing people I know I have met through camp and it is a great feeling. I also love the connection you can make with a camper in just one week and how much of an impact the campers can make on you, not just the impact you can make on them.
Orkila, Orkila: Why can't you ride "my little red wagon?"
GR: I heard the front wheel is broken and the axel may be dragging. But I bet if you ask Steve and Jason really nicely (and maybe bring them some pie) they would be able to fix it right up!
May 24, 2012
Staff Spotlight: Elena Good
The YMCA Camp Orkila Staff Spotlight Series was out on an adventure for a while, details to come in the next post. But now we're back! And what better way to return to the blog than with an introduction of Elena Good? As you'll read, EG has been racking up campitude points for quite some time, and we are super lucky to have her join the staff this year!
But first, POP QUIZ! which person in the photo is Elena? Read the "wood cookies" or "wookies" (name tags) if you need assistance. Too small to read? Come to camp to find out!
Elena Good
Orkila, Orkila: What is your history with camp? What units were you in as a camper, and what have you done as a staff member? What will you be doing this year?
EG: This will be my 11th summer at Orkila. I was a Goode, Hoodoo, Sahale, Turtleback twice, Mt O, LDI, CIT, and LDI 2.0. Last summer I was an OSI and this summer I am super stoked to be coming back as a counselor!
Orkila, Orkila: What have you been up to this year? Where are you right now!?
EG: This year I started my first year at California Polytechnic State University, studying architectural engineering, which means lots of crazy projects (I am currently working on a 9-foot hamster wheel that my group will roll into a canyon and sleep in next weekend). I have also been travelling around California a lot with my ultimate Frisbee team, but I am currently sitting at my desk in beautiful San Luis Obispo, California.
Orkila, Orkila: What's your favorite part of camp and what keeps you coming back?
EG: My favorite part about camp is the campers. I love hearing their hilarious stories at meals and rocking out to their favorite jams. I love getting them super excited for activities and I especially love seeing them challenge themselves and grow throughout the week.
I keep coming back to Orkila because I want to give kids the amazing experiences that I had as a camper. Growing up at Orkila has instilled values in me that have really shaped me and I want to share those with others. Also, camp is just super fun!
Orkila, Orkila: Why can't you ride "my little red wagon?"
EG: Upon inspection, I think you may have some structural flaws in the design, and I don’t think the color really goes with my friend Pat’s rickabamboo (it’s red and gold and purple too, you know). But mostly, it’s because your front wheel is broken and the axle is dragging.
May 7, 2012
Staff Spotlight: Devin Helmgren
We travelled far south to the distant land of Port...land...to shine this week's summer staff spotlight on Devin. Originally we were going to attend the 12th Annual Northwestern Snail Convention, but all the exhibitors were running way behind schedule. You know the old saying, "If all the snails are late, go interview someone for a Staff Spotlight." So, here we are...
Orkila: What's your history with camp? What units were you in as a camper, and what have you done as a staff member? What will you be doing this year?
DH: I've been going to Orkila for a looooooong time. Like, literally since before I was born (true story). My first summer camp experience was was as a Goodie Glacier, followed by being a Hoodoo. Then something went terribly right in my life and I did Horsemasters for like, four years (I never learned how to spell Illabots, but I knew that they took NO Jive). That kept me coming back long enough to join LDI Tahomas (Tahomies) which rocked my socks like a laundry machine. The year after that I did CITs and was a CIT for the Lizardheads, after that OSI's (Lizardheads and Hoodoos). I took a year break, and last year I did my first year as paid staff where I worked with the Loowits all summer. This year I am coming back as a Counselor for another year, for which I am beyond stoked.
DH: I've been going to Orkila for a looooooong time. Like, literally since before I was born (true story). My first summer camp experience was was as a Goodie Glacier, followed by being a Hoodoo. Then something went terribly right in my life and I did Horsemasters for like, four years (I never learned how to spell Illabots, but I knew that they took NO Jive). That kept me coming back long enough to join LDI Tahomas (Tahomies) which rocked my socks like a laundry machine. The year after that I did CITs and was a CIT for the Lizardheads, after that OSI's (Lizardheads and Hoodoos). I took a year break, and last year I did my first year as paid staff where I worked with the Loowits all summer. This year I am coming back as a Counselor for another year, for which I am beyond stoked.
Orkila: What have you been up to this year? Where are you right now!?
DH: This year I've been living/studying/working at the University of Portland aiming to get a computer science degree, which means that this summer will be the first time I've seen the sun in ages. I spend a lot of time working for the radio station at my school (KDUP) and also working as a health educator. And at time of writing... I am in my room... writing (yep, couldn't hold myself back on that joke...). On the larger scale I am getting myself psyched for a trip to Europe during May and June, and before that writing and recording music with my musical project "Secret Headquarters" (a folk-punk trio).
Orkila: What’s your favorite part of camp? And what keeps you coming back?
DH: Erm, my favorite part of camp is the people. You get to meet some really amazing folks when you come to camp, and I'm not even just talking about staff. The kids are whacky, zany, intelligent, energetic, inspiring- I could go on. And on. And on. People are really themselves at camp in a way that they aren't allowed in the real world. Which, when you think about it, walks the line right between sad and wonderful. HOWEVER! WE GET TO BE THE PEOPLE WHO SEE THAT OTHER SIDE! WHICH IS SPLENDIFOROUS! People aside, camp is the birthing ground for all of my favorite inside jokes. For people who were at camp last year, sometimes just a word is enough to bring a smile to their face.
DH: Erm, my favorite part of camp is the people. You get to meet some really amazing folks when you come to camp, and I'm not even just talking about staff. The kids are whacky, zany, intelligent, energetic, inspiring- I could go on. And on. And on. People are really themselves at camp in a way that they aren't allowed in the real world. Which, when you think about it, walks the line right between sad and wonderful. HOWEVER! WE GET TO BE THE PEOPLE WHO SEE THAT OTHER SIDE! WHICH IS SPLENDIFOROUS! People aside, camp is the birthing ground for all of my favorite inside jokes. For people who were at camp last year, sometimes just a word is enough to bring a smile to their face.
Orkila: Why can’t you ride “my little red wagon”?
DH: Look, I know what you're gonna say. "But narwhals can't shoot their teeth from their mouths like a spray of hornets!" I don't care. Nobody has ever seen a real Narwhal, so all we have to go on is convoluted mythos, and, quite frankly, until you get your Radio Flyer Big Red Classic ATW (look it up!) properly prepared for a narwhal attack, I CATEGORICALLY REFUSE to be a passenger therein. Also, John Bourgeois told me that it was in desperate need of maintenance.
DH: Look, I know what you're gonna say. "But narwhals can't shoot their teeth from their mouths like a spray of hornets!" I don't care. Nobody has ever seen a real Narwhal, so all we have to go on is convoluted mythos, and, quite frankly, until you get your Radio Flyer Big Red Classic ATW (look it up!) properly prepared for a narwhal attack, I CATEGORICALLY REFUSE to be a passenger therein. Also, John Bourgeois told me that it was in desperate need of maintenance.
April 30, 2012
Staff Spotlight: Julia Dorn
Camp Orkila was wrapping up it's tour of Bellingham last week, having just had a wonderful chat with Julie T., when that old saying came suddenly to mind: why not catch two fish with one worm? or... mail two letters with one stamp? or... sing two songs with one voice? Umm... Annnywayyy, we realized that Julia Dorn also lives in Bellingham.
Orkila: Julia! What's your personal camp history? What will you be doing at camp this year?
JD: I am returning for my second year on the staff, but when I was new last year, I decided to be a counselor because of my experiences as a camper (in Loowits, LDI, and CIT's). I wanted to share all of my experiences and be able to give kids the same, or even better, summer that I had. It is the most magical place on earth and I would love for kids to be given a great camp experience:)
Orkila: What have you been up to since last summer?
JD: This year I have been going to school at Western Washington University. I am currently taking French, Psychology, and English and I love it! Between classes and studying, I have been hanging out with all of my new friends up here and having a lot of fun:)
JD: I am returning for my second year on the staff, but when I was new last year, I decided to be a counselor because of my experiences as a camper (in Loowits, LDI, and CIT's). I wanted to share all of my experiences and be able to give kids the same, or even better, summer that I had. It is the most magical place on earth and I would love for kids to be given a great camp experience:)
Orkila: What have you been up to since last summer?
JD: This year I have been going to school at Western Washington University. I am currently taking French, Psychology, and English and I love it! Between classes and studying, I have been hanging out with all of my new friends up here and having a lot of fun:)
Orkila: What’s your favorite part of camp? And what keeps you coming back?
JD: My favorite part of camp is most definitely the DORK DANCE:) It is the best because we can all dress up and be goofy and dance! Other than that, I love value sessions.
Orkila: Why can’t you ride “my little red wagon”?
JD: You can't ride my little red wagon because "THE FRONT WHEEL'S BROKEN AND THE AXEL'S DRAGGING" That's my favorite cheer:)
JD: My favorite part of camp is most definitely the DORK DANCE:) It is the best because we can all dress up and be goofy and dance! Other than that, I love value sessions.
Orkila: Why can’t you ride “my little red wagon”?
JD: You can't ride my little red wagon because "THE FRONT WHEEL'S BROKEN AND THE AXEL'S DRAGGING" That's my favorite cheer:)
April 23, 2012
Staff Spotlight: Julie Thompson
Staff Spotlight Series was recently on an hisotrical tour of Bellingham, WA, learning about the Fraser Canyon Gold Rush of 1858. One could argue that a lot has happened since then. The real news on everyone's mind, however, is one of the town's newest and most prodigious members of the collegiate community, Julie Thompson. She graciously stepped away from her studies to answer a few questions for us.
Orkila: So Julie, you have been coming to camp for quite a few years, yes? Tell us about your progression over the years, won't you? What will you be doing this year?
JT: This summer will be my 8th summer coming to Orkila. As a camper I was a Turtleback for 3 years, then I was a LDI in 2008, a CIT in 2009, a OSI in 2010, and a Turtleback counselor last summer (2011). This summer I will be returning as a cabin counselor, unsure of my unit but I will be happy anywhere.
Orkila: Now, what have you been up to lately? Where are you right now!?
JT: This year I am a college freshman at Western Washington University in Bellingham, and I am loving it. I have been adjusting to life away from Seattle and taking many classes to figure out what possible majors I am interested in. I have been taking Spanish classes and I even traveled to Mexico in March, hoping to soon become fluent.
Orkila: Excelente. What’s your favorite part of camp? And what keeps you coming back?
JT: In reality I love everything about camp (the people, the place, the games, the songs, the atmosphere, the sunsets...) but if I had to choose one thing as a favorite part it would be the ability to make a positive difference in a camper's life. Being a role model for younger kids is such a rewarding aspect of being a counselor, it makes the summer completely worthwhile. I love working with kids and seeing them grow during their time at camp, and I am looking forward to seeing that again this summer.
Orkila: Why can’t you ride “my little red wagon”?
JT: The front wheel's broken and the axel's draggin'! (obvi)
Orkila: Thank you! How quickly one forgets. Te vemos en el verano. (We'll see you this summer.)
April 16, 2012
Staff Spotlight: Ben Poor
Not long ago, the Staff Spotlight Series went out for a walk to enjoy the wonderful flowers that are blooming this time of year--such as yellow daffodils, red and white camellias, and others--when we bumped into returning staff member Ben Poor! Ben's a great person that we thought you all would like to meet, and many of you probably already know, so here he is!
BP: This year, I started school at Occidental College in LA. This liberal arts schools feels a lot like Camp, especially with all the Orkila alumni I see around campus. I just got back from a beach camping trip to Santa Barbara, where I put many of my camp skills to the test, from games like Ninja to s'mores making, and story-telling around the campfire.
Orkila: What’s your favorite part of camp? And what keeps you coming back?
BP: Value Sessions, by far. I love hearing the personal stories campers tell during value sessions, and also feeling comfortable enough to share my own stories. I really love the feeling that Camp is a safe place where people can share things they wouldn't in other environments. I also love that the feeling of safeness allows people to act outside their comfort zone, from Giant Swings to Get Wet Get Dirty.
Orkila: You know what my last question is going to be, don't you? Well, here it is. Why can't you ride "my little red wagon?"
Orkila: Ben! Is that you Ben? Since you're here,
I thought I'd ask you a few questions. What's your camp history? What units were you in as a camper, and what have you done as a staff member?
BP: Great questions Camp Orkila! I came to Camp for many years as a Camper, spending at least one summer as a Hoodoo, a Lizardhead, a Greywolf, a Loowit, an LDI kayak trip (Louballas + .5), and a CIT. Two years ago I worked in the Hoodoos and Mt. O as an Orkila Summer Intern, and last summer I fulfilled my heart's desire of being a Greywolf for the whole summer.
Orkila: Other than walking around enjoying the flowers, what have you been up to this year? Where are you right now!?
BP: Great questions Camp Orkila! I came to Camp for many years as a Camper, spending at least one summer as a Hoodoo, a Lizardhead, a Greywolf, a Loowit, an LDI kayak trip (Louballas + .5), and a CIT. Two years ago I worked in the Hoodoos and Mt. O as an Orkila Summer Intern, and last summer I fulfilled my heart's desire of being a Greywolf for the whole summer.
Orkila: Other than walking around enjoying the flowers, what have you been up to this year? Where are you right now!?
BP: This year, I started school at Occidental College in LA. This liberal arts schools feels a lot like Camp, especially with all the Orkila alumni I see around campus. I just got back from a beach camping trip to Santa Barbara, where I put many of my camp skills to the test, from games like Ninja to s'mores making, and story-telling around the campfire.
Orkila: What’s your favorite part of camp? And what keeps you coming back?
BP: Value Sessions, by far. I love hearing the personal stories campers tell during value sessions, and also feeling comfortable enough to share my own stories. I really love the feeling that Camp is a safe place where people can share things they wouldn't in other environments. I also love that the feeling of safeness allows people to act outside their comfort zone, from Giant Swings to Get Wet Get Dirty.
Orkila: You know what my last question is going to be, don't you? Well, here it is. Why can't you ride "my little red wagon?"
BP: Oh I sure saw this coming, Orkila. To answer this last question adequately, I prepared a top ten list:
Top Ten Reasons You Can't Ride My Little Red Wagon:
10. It was destroyed by a Pacific Sea Bear 9. You have been touching your face and not washing your hands 8. You only sent in 4 boxtops, 3 coupons, 2 proof of purchases, and one small nickel 7. Gaga Knuckles 6. We left it on Sucia 5. It's on 24 hour quarantine 4. It's the Snazzler 3. It got burned by the spark in a pile of sticks 2. ???1. Profit
Top Ten Reasons You Can't Ride My Little Red Wagon:
10. It was destroyed by a Pacific Sea Bear 9. You have been touching your face and not washing your hands 8. You only sent in 4 boxtops, 3 coupons, 2 proof of purchases, and one small nickel 7. Gaga Knuckles 6. We left it on Sucia 5. It's on 24 hour quarantine 4. It's the Snazzler 3. It got burned by the spark in a pile of sticks 2. ???1. Profit
Orkila: So true, Ben, there are a lot of different reasons why we can't ride little red wagons. Thanks for the conversation, it was great seeing you. Be sure to smell the flowering cherry trees as you go, their blossoms smell like sweet perfume. We'll see you at camp!
April 9, 2012
Staff Spotlight: Kira McGieson
The Staff Spotlight Series has recently been on expedition and crossed paths with a truly unique species of staff member! For those who are interested, the scientific name for this person is something like Kirus McGiesonus. She is pictured below in her native habitat. Please read on to learn more!
Orkila: Wow! It's so great to see you! What a nice coincidence. It seems like only yesterday when I saw you last. So, remind me, how long have you been at camp, as a camper and then a member of the staff team?
KM: It's probably safe to say I've got a history at camp. This will be my 12th summer. I've been in lots of the classic units, but I gotta give a shout out to my DeCosmo days and my participation on the one and only Orkila Surf Camp expedition. I spent two years as a cabin counselor, the past two years on teen staff as an LDI Instructor and Shaggy Mice leader, and I'll be doing some of the same this summer.
Orkila: Nice. And what are you doing while camp is not in session? What's up with you these days?
KM: Right now, I'm in my room in Portland, OR where I'm about to graduate from Lewis and Clark College. Eeeep. I'm also lucky enough to work at a kayak shop here in Portland called Next Adventure, which I love.
Orkila: Congrautlaions and we hope you have an awesome graduation! But first, what is your favorite thing about camp?
KM: My favorite part about camp is being able to share my love for things like paddling, the san juan islands, etc. with the youth I'm lucky enough to work with. This also happens to be what keeps me coming back.
Orkila: What a nice chat we've had Kira! I just have one more question. Why can't you ride "my little red wagon?" ... Kira? Hello? What... Where did she go? Maybe she CAN ride my little red wagon. Well, it's clear that our staff lead busy lives in the off-season. We'll all see Kira this summer and we can't wait. Woo!
Orkila: Wow! It's so great to see you! What a nice coincidence. It seems like only yesterday when I saw you last. So, remind me, how long have you been at camp, as a camper and then a member of the staff team?
KM: It's probably safe to say I've got a history at camp. This will be my 12th summer. I've been in lots of the classic units, but I gotta give a shout out to my DeCosmo days and my participation on the one and only Orkila Surf Camp expedition. I spent two years as a cabin counselor, the past two years on teen staff as an LDI Instructor and Shaggy Mice leader, and I'll be doing some of the same this summer.
Orkila: Nice. And what are you doing while camp is not in session? What's up with you these days?
KM: Right now, I'm in my room in Portland, OR where I'm about to graduate from Lewis and Clark College. Eeeep. I'm also lucky enough to work at a kayak shop here in Portland called Next Adventure, which I love.
Orkila: Congrautlaions and we hope you have an awesome graduation! But first, what is your favorite thing about camp?
KM: My favorite part about camp is being able to share my love for things like paddling, the san juan islands, etc. with the youth I'm lucky enough to work with. This also happens to be what keeps me coming back.
Orkila: What a nice chat we've had Kira! I just have one more question. Why can't you ride "my little red wagon?" ... Kira? Hello? What... Where did she go? Maybe she CAN ride my little red wagon. Well, it's clear that our staff lead busy lives in the off-season. We'll all see Kira this summer and we can't wait. Woo!
April 3, 2012
Staff Spotlight: John Bourgeois
The Staff Spotlight Series is delighted to bring you:
John Bourgeois!
John is seen here as he and some campers get gussied up for the Dork Dance. Looking good everyone!
Orkila: Hi John, thanks again for taking some time to do this. Shall we just jump into it? So what units were you in as a camper, what have you done as a staff member? What will you be doing this year at camp, too?
JB: Of course I am happy to speak with you anytime, Ork. By going to camp this next summer, it will be my 7th year at Camp Orkila. I am excited to be the 'Earth and the Heavens,' in regard to the poem that is recited at the closing campfire. As a camper, I only had the extreme pleasure of doing skate camp, where I mingled, some, with the Grey Wolves. I never actually got to do full blown traditional camp. I then was a LDI, a CIT, and also an OSI. Now I have been on the staff as a counselor for 2 years. And this summer I was informed that I would be a counselor again. I don't know if I'm quite ready to give up counseling quite yet.
Orkila: What have you been up to this year? Where are you right now!?
JB: This past year, I have been spending my time at Oregon State University, for my sophomore terms in Electrical and Computer Engineering. Playing a lot of pick basketball as well as working at a Burrito restaurant on campus.
At this very moment, I am sitting on the couch at my friend's house, in my home town of Portland, OR. I am house-sitting for him, as well as pet-sitting. I'm currently on Spring Break, so I have been trying to get as much sleep as possible.
Orkila: What’s your favorite part of camp? And what keeps you coming back?
JB: My favorite part about camp is the inside jokes you make with the campers as well as your fellow staff. The campers, in my opinion, love these connections that you make with them. They will experience something that maybe 9 other kids get to experience, and that makes them feel really special. Something that they can talk the ears off of their parents on the ride home. Maybe a wacky story that a camper tells me or spur-of-the-moment song or dance that breaks out!
What definitely brings me back is campers recognizing me. When I was younger, I loved seeing the counselors return, a face I knew. So when I'm walking around on changeover day and I hear, "JOHHNN!!!!" and see a camper from 2 years ago that I had in my cabin beaming with joy to see me, it's really something else. It shows that I did have an impact, and I am a reason for them coming back. So, they are a reason I come back.
Orkila: I really do wish that we could talk forever John, but to close, in your own words, why can’t you ride "my little red wagon?"
JB: Well there have always been a variety of reasons why I am never really able to ride your little red wagon, ranging from a smashed differential to an improperly operating radiator. But it always seems to boil down to having the front wheel's broken and the axle dragging.
John Bourgeois!
John is seen here as he and some campers get gussied up for the Dork Dance. Looking good everyone!
Orkila: Hi John, thanks again for taking some time to do this. Shall we just jump into it? So what units were you in as a camper, what have you done as a staff member? What will you be doing this year at camp, too?
JB: Of course I am happy to speak with you anytime, Ork. By going to camp this next summer, it will be my 7th year at Camp Orkila. I am excited to be the 'Earth and the Heavens,' in regard to the poem that is recited at the closing campfire. As a camper, I only had the extreme pleasure of doing skate camp, where I mingled, some, with the Grey Wolves. I never actually got to do full blown traditional camp. I then was a LDI, a CIT, and also an OSI. Now I have been on the staff as a counselor for 2 years. And this summer I was informed that I would be a counselor again. I don't know if I'm quite ready to give up counseling quite yet.
Orkila: What have you been up to this year? Where are you right now!?
JB: This past year, I have been spending my time at Oregon State University, for my sophomore terms in Electrical and Computer Engineering. Playing a lot of pick basketball as well as working at a Burrito restaurant on campus.
At this very moment, I am sitting on the couch at my friend's house, in my home town of Portland, OR. I am house-sitting for him, as well as pet-sitting. I'm currently on Spring Break, so I have been trying to get as much sleep as possible.
Orkila: What’s your favorite part of camp? And what keeps you coming back?
JB: My favorite part about camp is the inside jokes you make with the campers as well as your fellow staff. The campers, in my opinion, love these connections that you make with them. They will experience something that maybe 9 other kids get to experience, and that makes them feel really special. Something that they can talk the ears off of their parents on the ride home. Maybe a wacky story that a camper tells me or spur-of-the-moment song or dance that breaks out!
What definitely brings me back is campers recognizing me. When I was younger, I loved seeing the counselors return, a face I knew. So when I'm walking around on changeover day and I hear, "JOHHNN!!!!" and see a camper from 2 years ago that I had in my cabin beaming with joy to see me, it's really something else. It shows that I did have an impact, and I am a reason for them coming back. So, they are a reason I come back.
Orkila: I really do wish that we could talk forever John, but to close, in your own words, why can’t you ride "my little red wagon?"
JB: Well there have always been a variety of reasons why I am never really able to ride your little red wagon, ranging from a smashed differential to an improperly operating radiator. But it always seems to boil down to having the front wheel's broken and the axle dragging.
March 26, 2012
Staff Spotlight: Tessa Nesbit
Welcome to the continuation of our 2012 Staff Spotlight Series! Periodically we will introduce you to 1 of the amazing people who will be at camp on the 2012 Summer Staff. If you see someone you know here--and especially if you see someone you don't know--be sure to clap your hands and twinkle your fingers as we keep getting ready for an awesome season.
This week, we are proud to announce the return of the one, the only... Tessa Nesbit!
Orkila: So Tessa, we're all dying to know, what's your history with camp? What will you be doing this year?
Tessa: This will be my 9th summer at Camp Orkila! I can't get enough of this magical place. My grandpa was even a counselor here! My first summers at camp were spent being an Olympian in Mt. O, and then moving on to the teen programs, Leadership Development Instituted (LDI) and Counselor In Training (CIT). As a staff member, I've been girly and burly with the Sahales, having way too much fun with the Goodes, lived on the beach with Mt. O and then in the forest with the Loowits. This summer, I am beyond excited to be a Director of the CIT program!
Orkila: And what have you been up to lately? Where are you right now!?
Tessa: After many, many years as a student, I am finally a college graduate! As of March 15 I am a graduate of the University of Washington, and life could not be better! I'm about to embark on an adventure around the West Coast visiting friends, many of who are from camp! If things go well, I'll hopefully start some dork dances, campfires, and face painting along the way. I also hope to bike through the Redwoods, surf in the Pacific, and eat as many avocados as possible. After that, the adventure will continue at Orkila!
Orkila: What’s your favorite part of camp? What keeps you coming back?
Tessa: The people are my favorite part of camp! I've become friends with the most inspirational and amazing people at Orkila, and I have become a better person because of them. From campers to staff, Orkila has such an incredible community! But I have to admit, being able to sing about anything and everything at any time of day also keeps me coming back. Where else can I sing about black socks, made-up words, and princesses!?
Orkila: Thanks Tessa, and in closing, why can’t you ride “my little red wagon”?
Tessa: It's stuck in the swamp after Get Wet Get Dirty!
Mud! Mud! Mud mud mud!!!
Orkila: Mud mud mud!!
This week, we are proud to announce the return of the one, the only... Tessa Nesbit!
Orkila: So Tessa, we're all dying to know, what's your history with camp? What will you be doing this year?
Tessa: This will be my 9th summer at Camp Orkila! I can't get enough of this magical place. My grandpa was even a counselor here! My first summers at camp were spent being an Olympian in Mt. O, and then moving on to the teen programs, Leadership Development Instituted (LDI) and Counselor In Training (CIT). As a staff member, I've been girly and burly with the Sahales, having way too much fun with the Goodes, lived on the beach with Mt. O and then in the forest with the Loowits. This summer, I am beyond excited to be a Director of the CIT program!
Orkila: And what have you been up to lately? Where are you right now!?
Tessa: After many, many years as a student, I am finally a college graduate! As of March 15 I am a graduate of the University of Washington, and life could not be better! I'm about to embark on an adventure around the West Coast visiting friends, many of who are from camp! If things go well, I'll hopefully start some dork dances, campfires, and face painting along the way. I also hope to bike through the Redwoods, surf in the Pacific, and eat as many avocados as possible. After that, the adventure will continue at Orkila!
Orkila: What’s your favorite part of camp? What keeps you coming back?
Tessa: The people are my favorite part of camp! I've become friends with the most inspirational and amazing people at Orkila, and I have become a better person because of them. From campers to staff, Orkila has such an incredible community! But I have to admit, being able to sing about anything and everything at any time of day also keeps me coming back. Where else can I sing about black socks, made-up words, and princesses!?
Orkila: Thanks Tessa, and in closing, why can’t you ride “my little red wagon”?
Tessa: It's stuck in the swamp after Get Wet Get Dirty!
Mud! Mud! Mud mud mud!!!
Orkila: Mud mud mud!!
January 20, 2012
Staff Spotlight: Marty Emmes
Hi! My name is Marty Emmes. I grew up in Eugene Oregon and have attended my local Y beginning as a kindergartener. I came to Orkila in the summer of 2009 as the Assistant Director of Teen Expeditions. My passion for Sailing, Kayaking, and Cycling; allowed me to feel quite at home with my role that first year. These last few years, I have been happy to be involved in an organization that was so fundamental in shaping me as a person. The chance to help facilitate similar opportunities for others is why I'm here. Having the chance to send out, support, and receive back participants from trips is an extremely rewarding part of my job. I strongly believe that Orkila has the opportunity to offer something that is both rare and important. I’m excited to be working with Orkila going forward and developing strong and pivotal experiences for youth.I would love to hear about your ideas and reasons why you love Orkila. Please give me a call at 206.382.5009 or reach me by email at memmes@seattleymca.org
January 13, 2012
Staff Spotlight: Dominic Vellucci
Hello everyone, my name is Dom Vellucci and I'm really excited to be coming back to this community. I worked with Camp Orkila in 2010 as an environmental educator and Leadership Development Institute (LDI) instructor, and have filled similar roles in other camps in Michigan and Pennsylvania. I come from upstate New York, where I studied agriculture, managed a couple farms, and taught garden-based learning to elementary schools in New York City. I also volunteered for a therapeutic horse-riding program in NY, but I don't know how to ride horses yet. Perhaps someone here will teach me. It's great to be back in Washington and I look forward to seeing lots of new faces as well as some familiar ones, too. No, I didn't just come back for gaga ball, but it was a factor. I am honored to help Orkila continue making great traditions, and am sure that you will all help me do the same. And I apologize in advance if you are hit with one of my juggling clubs, just practicing!
December 11, 2011
Staff Spotlight: Kelly Heusinkveld
June 21, 2011
Staff Spotlight: Paul!
Staff Spotlight: Paul!
Hometown: Seattle -but went to high school in Michigan
School: University of Michigan
Camp History: has been coming to camp FOR 11 YEARS!!! (This will be his second year as staff at Orkila!)
Spirit animal: Katie Swanson
Favorite camp game: sardines
Favorite camp song: bazooka bubble gum
Favorite camp meal: burritos
Loves: his BFF Langston, dressing up like an Oompa Loompa, "The Cupid Shuffle", to play with his food, Dork Dances, The Lorax, dance parties outside Wally Fisher
June 17, 2011
Staff Spotlight: Marty!
Staff Spotlight: Marty!
Hometown(s): Eugene, Estes Park, Eastsound, Portland, Lander, Seattle... The Pacific NW? (:
School: University of Oregon
Camp History: Life-long YMCA camper & IS GOING INTO HIS THIRD SUMMER AS AN ASSISTANT DIRECTOR!
Spirit Animal: Circus Bear
Favorite camp game: Sailboat Tag
Favorite camp Meal: Orkila Lattes, "just shake and serve"
Loves: dogs, skiing, coffee, his visor, biking, the outdoors, trees, Skagit, cooking, Chaco's
Claims to fame: his sailboat drawing in dirty car windows, his 'Wookie' noise, drinking coffee like water, his 9 o'clock radio checks, "YUP"
Fun & Quirky: His name rhymes with party, so that's fun!
Something Awesome: Once swam with a leopard seal in Antarctica.
Did you know? That Marty once visited campers on 8 islands in 24 hours! He’s also finishing up a Wilderness EMT course, to be more prepared to serve campers in the field!
Quote to live by:
"There is NOTHING--absolute nothing--half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats!
In or out of 'em, it doesn't matter. Nothing seems really to matter, that's the charm of it. Whether you get away, or whether you don't; whether you arrive at your destination or whether you reach somewhere else, or whether you never get anywhere at all, you're always busy, and you never do anything in particular; and when you've done it there's always something else to do, and you can do it if you like, but you'd much better not. Look here! If you've really nothing else on hand this morning, supposing we drop down the river together, and have a long day of it?"
-Rat, Wind in the Willows
June 14, 2011
Staff Spotlight: Liza
Staff Spotlight: Liza!
Hometown: Redmond, WA
School: Santa Clara University
Camp history: 3 summers as a camper (a Horsemaster), 2 summers as a Goode counselor, one summer as Goode Unit Director, couple weeks as a Goode counselor last year, AND NOW AN ASSISTANT DIRECTOR!!!
Spirit animal: a Goode Glacier
Favorite camp song: "Have you ever seen a penguin come to tea"
Favorite camp game: holy grail tag
Favorite camp meal: could eat the cookies all day, and also gets very excited when there are beets in the salad bar!
Claims to fame: she can speak Hebrew and Russian, working at the Outdoor Environmental Education program at Camp Seymour, her contagious laugh, getting wet and dirty, being SUPER SWEET, The Invisible Bench Skit, singing "Hey There Delilah"
Loves: eating , travelling, SKIING, farms and gardens, Orcas Island sunsets, Goode Glaciers, going for long runs, Chris Farley, taking naps, festivals, campfires, rescuing bags in the middle of the night from trees after raccoons have gotten a hold of them (:
Did you know? she circumnavigated a Mexican Island by kayak, worked at a forest preschool in Denmark, and knows everything you could possible want to learn about barnacles and reptiles!
Hometown: Redmond, WASchool: Santa Clara University
Camp history: 3 summers as a camper (a Horsemaster), 2 summers as a Goode counselor, one summer as Goode Unit Director, couple weeks as a Goode counselor last year, AND NOW AN ASSISTANT DIRECTOR!!!
Spirit animal: a Goode Glacier
Favorite camp song: "Have you ever seen a penguin come to tea"
Favorite camp game: holy grail tag
Favorite camp meal: could eat the cookies all day, and also gets very excited when there are beets in the salad bar!
Claims to fame: she can speak Hebrew and Russian, working at the Outdoor Environmental Education program at Camp Seymour, her contagious laugh, getting wet and dirty, being SUPER SWEET, The Invisible Bench Skit, singing "Hey There Delilah"
Loves: eating , travelling, SKIING, farms and gardens, Orcas Island sunsets, Goode Glaciers, going for long runs, Chris Farley, taking naps, festivals, campfires, rescuing bags in the middle of the night from trees after raccoons have gotten a hold of them (:
Did you know? she circumnavigated a Mexican Island by kayak, worked at a forest preschool in Denmark, and knows everything you could possible want to learn about barnacles and reptiles!
June 10, 2011
Staff Spotlight: Jordan!
Staff Spotlight: JORDAN!
Hometown: Lake Forest Park
School: Western WA University
Current Residence: Osprey Deederer
Favorite Color(s): Earth Tones, specifically dark blues, browns and greens
Favorite Breakfast Cereal: Honey Nut Cheerios -but when his potatoes aren't done properly, he really enjoys a bowl of Rice Crispies at camp
Spirit mode of transportation: Bicycle or Myrtle (the Camp Bus)
Earliest Memory: Watching Darth Vader descend the steps in the carbon freezing chamber in Cloud City on the planet Bespin (from The Empire Strikes Back)
Camp History: this will be his 12 summer! AND taught in Orkila's Outdoor Environmental Education program in the fall and this spring!
Areas of Expertise: Dragons, state collapse and reconstruction, story telling, photography
LOVES: beards, Settlers of Catan, bicycles, coffee, Lady Gaga, Chacos, cycling, Dr. Bronner's, ninjas, glitter, "bicycle" by Queen, camping, camp, Orkila, Orcas Island, biking hats (you know, the ones with the little bills), snapping his fingers, expressing himself, Patagonia down jackets (but not for their water resistance), kayaking
Did you know? That when Jordan was a CIT, he protested to take the jiggle out of Jell-o
Hometown: Lake Forest ParkSchool: Western WA University
Current Residence: Osprey Deederer
Favorite Color(s): Earth Tones, specifically dark blues, browns and greens
Favorite Breakfast Cereal: Honey Nut Cheerios -but when his potatoes aren't done properly, he really enjoys a bowl of Rice Crispies at camp
Spirit mode of transportation: Bicycle or Myrtle (the Camp Bus)
Earliest Memory: Watching Darth Vader descend the steps in the carbon freezing chamber in Cloud City on the planet Bespin (from The Empire Strikes Back)
Camp History: this will be his 12 summer! AND taught in Orkila's Outdoor Environmental Education program in the fall and this spring!
Areas of Expertise: Dragons, state collapse and reconstruction, story telling, photography
LOVES: beards, Settlers of Catan, bicycles, coffee, Lady Gaga, Chacos, cycling, Dr. Bronner's, ninjas, glitter, "bicycle" by Queen, camping, camp, Orkila, Orcas Island, biking hats (you know, the ones with the little bills), snapping his fingers, expressing himself, Patagonia down jackets (but not for their water resistance), kayaking
Did you know? That when Jordan was a CIT, he protested to take the jiggle out of Jell-o
June 7, 2011
Staff Spotlight: LD!
SPOTLIGHT: LOREDANA!
Camp Experience: 4 summers at camp
Favorite Camp Meal: Chicken Patties
Favorite Camp Activity: Giant Swing
LOVES: everything 90s (clothes, music & tv), singing, 800m race, entertaining, making people laugh, mimicking accents, CAMP, sunsets, alumni campfire, travelling (has visited 10 out of 50 states -It's her life-long ambition to put her foot in each state!), playing Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and aeroplanes! (and it’s a good thing –or else we couldn’t continuously be graced by her presence every summer!)
Claims to fame: singing & her BEAUTIFUL voice, ALWAYS requesting MJ at Dork Dances, being a regular at Orkila open-mic night, Performing skits, her sweet English accent, Dork Dances (ESPECIALLY when MJ and/or 90's-era pop comes on!), leading "Boom Chicka Boom" at line-ups "valley girl style" and introducing the "British style" ("I said a sip a cup of tea")
Why we’re star struck: 1. She’s incredible 2. She once sang with Leona Lewis at a singing competition 3. Sang "Part of your World" from the Little Mermaid for the Mayor of London and his guests 4. Auditioned for X Factor UK and will be on TV in September singing a Gretchen Wilson song
Did you know? She is a Disney Fanatic: All her pets are named after Disney characters - Disney, Bambi, Pongo & Meeko; the Lion King is her favorite film ever, & she can word-for-word lip-sync the whole movie
Hometown: Brockley, London. (No, not the vegetable!)
Fascinating fact: Mother is from Sicily, father is from Jamaica.
Fascinating fact: Mother is from Sicily, father is from Jamaica.
Spirit Animal: Michael Jackson
Camp Experience: 4 summers at camp
Favorite Camp Meal: Chicken Patties
Favorite Camp Activity: Giant Swing
LOVES: everything 90s (clothes, music & tv), singing, 800m race, entertaining, making people laugh, mimicking accents, CAMP, sunsets, alumni campfire, travelling (has visited 10 out of 50 states -It's her life-long ambition to put her foot in each state!), playing Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and aeroplanes! (and it’s a good thing –or else we couldn’t continuously be graced by her presence every summer!)
Claims to fame: singing & her BEAUTIFUL voice, ALWAYS requesting MJ at Dork Dances, being a regular at Orkila open-mic night, Performing skits, her sweet English accent, Dork Dances (ESPECIALLY when MJ and/or 90's-era pop comes on!), leading "Boom Chicka Boom" at line-ups "valley girl style" and introducing the "British style" ("I said a sip a cup of tea")
Why we’re star struck: 1. She’s incredible 2. She once sang with Leona Lewis at a singing competition 3. Sang "Part of your World" from the Little Mermaid for the Mayor of London and his guests 4. Auditioned for X Factor UK and will be on TV in September singing a Gretchen Wilson song
Did you know? She is a Disney Fanatic: All her pets are named after Disney characters - Disney, Bambi, Pongo & Meeko; the Lion King is her favorite film ever, & she can word-for-word lip-sync the whole movie
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