Welcome Back: Henry Dunning

We are thrilled to start introducing our 2024 staff! We have many familiar faces returning for another summer at Camp Spring Creek as well as new faces sure to bring lots of energy to camp. Join us in welcoming back Henry who is returning for his second summer as a counselor.

What were some of the highlights from your first summer at Camp Spring Creek?
My highlights from last summer were biking the Virginia Creeper Trail for the last weekend, any of the pool days, and the days where we went to Lake James.

Tell us a little about where you are from, describing it for those who are likely never to have been there before. If you have out-of-town visitors, where do you take them?
I’m from a place called Carlisle in the very north of England and on the edge of the Lake District. It is a fantastic place to go hiking around and have some incredible views. It can be a bit wet but in summer it's loads of fun to go swimming in all the lakes!

Tell us a little about your family.
I'm the eldest of four children; I have three younger sisters. I've grown up with two dogs and lived in around eight different houses. My family is very close and we enjoy sitting down over a big family meal.

What is your proudest accomplishment?
My proudest accomplishment would have to be coming to camp for the first time last summer! It was only my second time leaving home and I was away for three months. It completely changed me and has been the best decision I've ever made.

How would your closest friends describe you?
My closest friends would describe me as a kind person who always has time to have a chat and listen.

Ask me about the time I... went on a swamp tour around New Orleans!

If you were to invite three people (dead or alive, real or characters) to a dinner party, who would you invite?
I would invite my best friend Tyler, Percy Jackson (character from The Olympian books) and Chris Bumstead (a professional athlete).

What advice would you give to campers coming to camp for their first summer?
Have fun and be open to new experiences. Camp is a great place where you meet people from all over the world. They've got some pretty good stories to tell so ask them questions and always be kind.

What do you most look forward to for your second summer?
I'm most looking forward to seeing all the returning faces (campers and staff) and also meeting new people! I wanted to come back because it's 6 weeks of creating amazing memories on the other side of world

Meet the Counselors: Anton Liljelund

Last up in our Meet the Counselors series is Anton Liljelund. He is joining us from Finland, making him the first Finn at Camp Spring Creek. With a love for meaningful conversation and his calm and dedicated demeanor, Anton is sure to be a valued asset at camp this summer.

Tell us a little about where you are from. If you have out-of-town visitors, where do you take them?
I am from a quite small Nordic country called Finland. I think some of the things worth doing here are to enjoy nature and the outdoors.

When it’s your turn to control the tunes in the camp van, what kind of music will we be listening to?
I tend to enjoy music written with a message in mind and that can be found in many different genres I don’t have a firm favorite.

What’s one thing campers would be surprised to learn about you? 
We have male conscription in Finland so I have served in the army for a year.

What can campers do to win your heart?
I enjoy lengthy discussions about a variety of subjects.

What should campers avoid doing around you?
Be respectful of others and I don’t think there is much you could do.

Ask me about the time I... went to Australia

If you were to invite three people to a dinner party, who would you invite?
Sokrates, Wittgenstein, Rousseau

What is your favorite book you've ever read?
The Wheel of Time series as a whole

Which Hogwarts House would the Sorting Hat place you in?
Ravenclaw 🦅

Meet the Counselors: Christine Ocran

To finish out our introduction of the girl’s counselors, we have Christine! Christine will be joining us from the UK and bringing a bright and bubbly personality to camp.

Tell us a little about where you are from! If you have out-of-town visitors, where do you take them?
I'm from London, UK. We use buses and trains to commute anywhere in the city. We are home to Buckingham Palace, where you will find the King’s Guards, dressed in red jackets and huge furry hats! I would take a visitor on a tour all over Central London! There is so much to see and soo many fun things to do, I couldn't just pick one.

When it’s your turn to control the tunes in the camp van, what kind of music will we be listening to?
Old Skool RnB or Afrobeats

What’s one thing campers would be surprised to learn about you? 
I play violin! (a little lol)

What can campers do to win your heart?
Being vocal and honest about any concerns they have.

What should campers avoid doing around you?
No bullying or disrespect is tolerated, please.

What’s something you’d like to teach the campers?
Anything that teaches them to be their most confident, unapologetic selves!

What is your proudest accomplishment?
I am able to do things on my own, without having to rely on others. If I'm hungry and no one is available to go out, I will definitely take myself out to that restaurant.

Ask me about the time I... went swimming in the sea on a school trip, got too overconfident, swam toward the deeper end and almost drowned.

Meet the Counselors: Clarrie Killkenny-Jones

Next up in our Meet the Counselors series is Clarrie from Australia. Clarrie’s connection to Camp Spring Creek started at Camp Dunnabeck where his mom worked as a counselor with our co-founder Steve. Having Clarrie at camp serves as proof that camp families stick together and we’re so excited to have the next generation at Camp Spring Creek.

Tell us a little about where you are from! If you have out-of-town visitors, where do you take them?
I’m from Melbourne Australia. During the week I’m in inner Melbourne and on weekends I’m in Mount Martha which is a small beach town with amazing beaches. If it was your first time at Mount Martha we would definitely have to go down to the beach and have a swim then jump off the nearby cliffs into the sea. Also if it’s your first time in Melbourne I would take visitors to the MCG Sports Stadium to watch a game of AFL (Australian rules football).

When it’s your turn to control the tunes in the camp van, what kind of music will we be listening to? OR: It's karaoke night, what song are you singing?
I’m in America!! I’d put on some Bruce Springsteen!

What’s one thing campers would be surprised to learn about you? 
I’m dyslexic!!

What can campers do to win your heart?
Always try your hardest - even if you don’t succeed (and if that doesn’t work bring me chocolate 😜).

What should campers avoid doing around you?
Putting other people down. Being negative.

What’s something you’d like to teach the campers?
Make the most of every day and be happy.

What is your proudest accomplishment?
My friendships and closeness with my family

Ask me about the time I... knocked myself out on a flying fox.

Which Hogwarts House would the Sorting Hat place you in?
Slytherin 🐍

Meet the Counselors: Rangi Harding

We have a great tradition of counselors from New Zealand here at Camp Spring Creek and they are always very popular! It’s been a few years since we’ve had a ‘kiwi’ at camp, so we’re excited that Rangi will be representing her country and sharing the Maori culture this summer!

Tell us a little about where you are from, describing it for those who are likely never to have been there before. If you have out-of-town visitors, where do you take them?
I am from New Zealand or Aotearoa. It is my homeland and has been all I know for 18 years! I love showing people all the natural beauty of Aotearoa. This includes natural hot springs and beautiful lakes and rivers. Pretty much Pandora.

When it’s your turn to control the tunes in the camp van, what kind of music will we be listening to? OR: It's karaoke night, what song are you singing?
I listen to every genre of music, to be honest. Pop music, R&B, as well as DNB, are a few genres I would play in the camp van so that no one falls asleep lol.

What’s one thing campers would be surprised to learn about you? 
I absolutely HATE pickles. I don't even like the smell.

What can campers do to win your heart?
Probably if they give me candy; instantly my favorite lol

What should campers avoid doing around you?
Probably don't eat pickles around me, not sure what else... just don't be naughty!!!

What’s something you’d like to teach the campers?
I would definitely love to teach the campers about my home and culture. These are two huge things that make me the person I am, and I can’t wait to share that.

What is your proudest accomplishment?
When I finally finished school, I am so proud of myself for not giving up!

Ask me about the time I... had to fly a plane for my 17th birthday.

If you were to invite three people (dead or alive, real or characters) to a dinner party, who would you invite?
Ruby Tui, Beyonce, and my Nana.

Which Hogwarts House did the Sorting Hat place you in?
Slytherin 🐍

Meet the Counselors: Rebecca Toohey

We’re delighted to introduce you all to Rebecca Toohey. Rebecca brings the luck of the Irish with her along with a fighting spirit. A self-proclaimed “Jack of all trades”, Rebecca will certainly fit in at camp and will share her many interests and skills with all of our campers.

Tell us a little about where you are from, describing it for those who are likely never to have been there before. If you have out-of-town visitors, where do you take them?
I’m from a place called Lucan, which is a suburb in Dublin. It’s a very residential area with lots of schools and parks. If I had out of town visitors I would take them to Dublin City centre or go on a walk up the mountains or on the beach.

When it’s your turn to control the tunes in the camp van, what kind of music will we be listening to? OR: It's karaoke night, what song are you singing?
I like listening to all types of music from pop, country and musicals. My guilty pleasure is ABBA and whatever songs are popular on TikTok seem to be always stuck in my head.

What’s one thing campers would be surprised to learn about you? 
Campers would be surprised to know I have an identical twin sister, we’ve never spent anymore than a few days apart. So this will be a very new experience for me.

Dog or cat person?
I’m 100% a dog person. I have 5 dogs their names are Jake, Hollie, Olaf, Trudy and Charlie. As a family we have also fostered well over 50 dogs and given them new homes.

What can campers do to win your heart?
To win my heart campers just have to be themselves, have fun and not take themselves too seriously.

What is your proudest accomplishment
My proudest accomplishment is that I have represented Ireland in boxing. I did boxing for around 10 years where I got to travel to Sweden a couple times and got to represent both Dublin and Ireland.

Meet the Counselors: Peter Czene

We’re so excited that Peter Czene will be joining us this summer as a counselor! Adding to our list of firsts, Peter hails from Hungary, a country we have yet to have represented at Camp Spring Creek. Please join us in welcoming Peter!

Tell us a little about where you are from, describing it for those who are likely never to have been there before. If you have out-of-town visitors, where do you take them?

I’m from Hungary from a village but I live in Budapest. So in Budapest, we have a lot of things to see that are unmissable. Budapest is really famous for its thermal baths that are very unique in Europe and I think all over the world as well. The city is also amazing because the Danube divides it into two parts Buda and Pest and both sizes have many stunning sights. In Buda, if you go up to the hill you can see the whole Pest with all of the sights (Buda one too). You can find many cool museums like serious or looser which are interactive interesting entertaining and so on (for example museum of illusions and so on) but also a bunch of nice outdoor places like squares parks and castles’ park).

When it’s your turn to control the tunes in the camp van, what kind of music will we be listening to? OR: It's karaoke night, what song are you singing?
Most of the time I prefer pop songs where the singers are singing so you can do it as well but you are also able to dance and do more things to these kinds of music.

What’s one thing campers would be surprised to learn about you? 
Probably my nationality cause it’s just a small country and the flag is also similar to the Italian one so most of the time people think I’m from Italy.

What can campers do to win your heart?
Trust, listen, and be kind.

What should campers avoid doing around you?
Fighting, being disrespectful, and being impatient.

Which Hogwarts House did the Sorting Hat place you in?
Slytherin 🐍

Ask me about the time I... moved to Gran Canaria to live there for half a year without knowing anybody.

Meet the Counselors: Karen Garcia

Please give a warm camp welcome to Karen Garcia! Karen is joining us from Columbia, making her both our first Columbian counselor and our first South American counselor! Her bubbly personality and childlike energy will be contagious at camp this summer.

Tell us a little about where you are from. If you have out-of-town visitors, where do you take them?
I am from Bogotá, Colombia. It is a magnificent country in South America, it is very rich in fauna, and flora and we have lots of festivals. We love to dance, we are very expressive and we speak Spanish. If you come to my city, I would love to take you to Monserrate, a mountain with a temple, a beautiful view of the city, and delicious aguapanela and almohabana for the cold. Then I would take you downtown to learn about the history and try ajiaco, a traditional soup.

When it’s your turn to control the tunes in the camp van, what kind of music will we be listening to?
Hmmm, I have so many songs that I love in English. But I'm going to say Adele, Bruno Mars, Milky Chance, The Lumieers, Imagine Dragons and maybe Carito by Carlos Vives which is a tropical song made by a Colombian but it has some parts in English and it's amazing.

Dog or cat person?
I’m definitely a dog person; cats’ personalities confuse me haha. Actually, I have two dogs: Polly and Ramón.

What can campers do to win your heart?
To win my heart they would: 1) help me when I make some mistake in English 2) tell me stories about their life.

What should campers avoid doing around you?
They should avoid lying and talking badly about others.

What’s something you’d like to teach the campers?
I'd love to share my Colombian culture, my knowledge of other languages, and some games we play here.

Ask me about the time I... got drenched at a concert

Meet the Counselors: Henry Dunning

Next up in our Meet the Counselors: Henry Dunning! Henry is joining us from Northern England. When he’s not on the hockey pitch, he might be found hiking local trails or exploring the world on solo adventures. He loves working with kids of all ages and we know our campers are going to love getting to know him this summer!

Tell us a little about where you are from. If you have out-of-town visitors, where do you take them?

Carlisle is a small city in the North of England, there's not a lot of culture but once a month there is a big market which sells lots of different foods to try. Usually I would take out of town visitors to the Cathedral or Bitts Park.

It's karaoke night, what song are you singing?

It has to be Mr. Brightside by The Killers

What can campers do to win your heart?

Be willing to try all sorts of new foods.

If you were to invite three people to a dinner party, who would you invite?

Conor McGregor, Israel Adesanya and Kvothe

What is your proudest accomplishment?

That would definitely have to be going to Italy by myself for my first holiday.

Which Hogwarts House did the Sorting Hat place you in?

Ravenclaw!

Meet the Counselors: Naomi Fitzpatrick

We’re so excited to finally introduce you to our 2023 staff. We think we’ve put together a stellar team who are going to create the most magical summer at Camp Spring Creek. First up in our Meet the Counselors series: Naomi. This hard-working and down-to-earth lass is coming to us from Ireland. She’s ready to take on the summer after earning her Masters in Education and if we’re lucky, she may teach us a few Irish words!

Tell us a little about where you are from. If you have out-of-town visitors, where do you take them?

I live between a small village of Fore and Collinstown in Co. Westmeath Ireland. Both out in the middle of the countryside with plenty of things to do and see. Starting off with Fore, there are thousands of visitors every year visiting Fore Abbey which used to be a monastery for monks. Fore is known for “the seven wonders of fore”. These include “the water that flows uphills, the well without a source.” These 7 wonders are all linked to the history of the area and the monks that lived there. Collinstown then, it’s not as creative, however we have our lake, Lough Lene, which is a 5 minute walk of me.

What’s one thing campers would be surprised to learn about you?

I can Irish dance.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

Walking 50 miles for charity 7 years running. This will be my first year to miss it since it started. I’m also proud to have graduated from college after 2 years of covid.

Which Hogwarts House did the Sorting Hat place you in?

Griffindor!

What can campers do to win your heart?

Be mannerly, say please and thank you, and respect others.

What should campers avoid doing around you?

Act rude towards their peers.

Ask me about the time I...

Drove for the first time.

Meet the Counselors: Leah Shifrel

Next up in the Meet the Counselors series is Leah Shifrel. We always say that once you’ve joined our camp family you’re with us forever, and nothing makes that feel more true than when we get a call from a past camper wanting to join our summer staff. Leah came to camp for multiple summers over ten years ago! We’re excited to have her bubbly personality at camp this summer. Find some pictures from Leah’s time at camp at the bottom of this post.

Tell us a little bit about where you live and where you grew up. If you have out-of-town visitors, where do you take them?
I currently live in Philadelphia! I love the city especially because it’s so lively and young. You can also walk from one part of the city to the next which I love! If I could take a visitor to one place it would be to walk around old city (where the founding fathers were) and get the famous Franklin Fountain Ice Cream (I love sweet things).
I am originally from Brooklyn NYC! If I could take a visitor to one place in New York I would bring them to Soho because I LOVE shopping with friends!

What are you studying at university?
I am studying Acting with a focus on film and TV at Temple University!

When it’s your turn to control the tunes in the camp van, what kind of music will we be listening to? : ) 
We will certainly be turning on Taylor Swift (big Swiftie) I also have recently been getting into country music! Besides my girl Taylor, my favorite artists are The Lumineers, Vance Joy, Kacey Musgraves, and vampire weekend!

What are you most looking forward to this summer?
I am looking forward to being in nature (I am usually always in a city) and doing some outdoor activities! I can’t wait to be back where I went to camp! I am also so excited for being a mentor to so many kids who are very similar to who I was at camp!

What’s one thing campers would be surprised to learn about you? 
One thing that would surprise you is I’m in a sorority (Alpha Xi Delta) and I’m also the Vice President for sisterhood and service for all sororities on my campus! Yes, I love leadership :)

Morning person or night person? 
I am a night person; I am very energetic at night (but I can’t wait to wake up bright and early with everyone and start the day) 

You came to camp as a camper over 10 years ago! How do you think you'll be the same (or different) from your counselors?
I think some ways that I’ll be like my counselors when I was at camp are being very caring and creating a safe space! I also want to help push my campers to love to learn while having so much fun!

What's one memory from camp that sticks out the most in your mind? 
Not a specific memory but more a feeling. I really struggled with my dyslexia before attending camp. Both socially and emotionally! I felt like I was the only one going through this. Until I arrived at Camp Spring Creek, everything changed. I made some amazing friends and had the support I needed. I remember Susie’s pep talks very well! It’s the community that changed how I look at my disability!

What should campers do to ‘get on your good side’? 
Be kind to each other! The best way to get on my good side is to be nice! Your fellow campers are possibly some lifelong friends and it’s worth treating everyone how you would want to be treated 

What should they avoid doing around you?
My campers should avoid complaining! I am totally here for you if you have a hard time with the work, don’t like an activity, or even get homesick, but just come to me and try not to complain and create a negative environment!

What advice would you give campers for being successful at camp?
Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Try new things, this could be trying a new stroke in the pool, trying a new kind of arts and crafts, or something a bit more challenging like reading a book you never thought you could!

Meet the Counselors: Zuzanna Glica

If Zuzanna’s name sounds familiar, it probably is! We introduced you all to Zuzanna back in 2020 and we are so excited that she will be joining us after two years of pandemic postponing. She is bringing some Polish positivity and a fun-loving attitude. Read more about Zuzanna below.

Tell us a little bit about where you live and where you grew up.
I live in Milanowek, I grew up here too :) It's a small and very green town, known for fudges and strawberies.

Whatt do you do during the school year?
During the school year I work as a price specialist in a rail transport company. During my free time I usually read books, and spend time with family playing board games or watching films.

When it’s your turn to control the tunes in the camp van, what kind of music will we be listening to?
I can't choose only one kind of music 😃 It'll be a mix of everything from '70 till now.

If you were able to cook one meal for the campers this summer, what would it be?
I prefer making desserts, so it'd be cheesecake :)

What’s one thing campers would be surprised to learn about you?
I donate blood as often as I can :D So far I have donated 4.5 liters.

Morning person or night person? 
100% early bird 😃

How do your friends describe you?
Funny, hard-working optimist.

What can campers do to make you smile? 
Laugh :) it's contagious 

What advice would you give campers for being successful at camp?
Be yourself and have fun 😄

Meet the Counselors: Winston Toutain

We’ll have another familiar face at camp this summer: Winston Toutain. For those of you who weren’t around in 2013, 2014, or 2015, meet Winston. He’s a camp expert after spending 3 summers with us, and has many stories to share from his time as a camper. After living all over the world, he’s found his way back to North Carolina where he’s using his dyslexic thinking to study Computer Science at NC State. Find some pictures from when Winston was a camper down below.

Tell us a little bit about where you live and where you grew up. Where would you take an out-of-town visitor?
I’d say I’m from West Hartford Connecticut but, I have moved quite a lot throughout my childhood. I was originally born in Hamburg, Germany though I didn’t live there very long, and then moved to Chicago, Illinois. From there we moved to West Hartford, then to Randolph, New Jersey, then back to West Hartford, then to Lausanne, Switzerland, then back to West Hartford. It is the location I have spent the largest amount of my childhood and something about the town always pulled us back. West Hartford is a medium-sized town with a total population of around sixty-four thousand residents. Some of the things the town is known for is how it was the home of Noah Webster, a man who helped to pioneer the American education system and wrote books to teach children how to spell and read. West Hartford is also the home of the American School for the Deaf which is the oldest permanent school for the deaf in all of America but also the first school for children with disabilities anywhere in the western hemisphere. Some of my favorite locations in West Hartford that I frequent would be Blue Back Square along with the rest of the town center, the West-farms Mall area, and Bishops Corner.

What do you do during the school year?
During the school year I am a student at NC State. I am just finishing up my sophomore year and am majoring in Computer Science with a minor in Film Studies.

You came to Camp Spring Creek for three summers! What’s your best camp memory? 
Some of my best camp memories would be how in my third year the older campers were able to go on a camping trip for a few days. We had to hike up a mountain and even fetch our own water. At the time I wasn’t very fit, and the hike really challenged me, but I can remember how good it felt once it was all done. I also remember I believe it was my second year the theme was some sort of survival show and we had an event one night where you had to eat a bunch of gross food quickly, and man was it gross!

How do you think you'll be the same (or different) from your counselors when you were a camper?
After being there for three years I was able to notice how some of the more iconic trips and events are repeated each session and having already experienced them I’ll be in better shoes than the new counselors. Granted some of the counselors I had returned for more than one summer, so I’d say I’m in a similar boat as them already having experience with the different trips. I also know what it was like to be a camper and how things at the camp operate giving me a lot of know-how even before the camp starts.

What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I enjoy playing sports of any kind with friends though tennis is my go-to, going to the gym, and sailing our boat or working on repairs for it. I also like to play video games, binge Netflix, screen write, and recently read Manga.

Dog or cat person?
That’s a hard question so I’m just going to say both as I got both a dog and a cat.

What’s one thing campers would be surprised to learn about you?
How I used to be a camper, how I’m a certified scuba diver and sailor, and how I’m fluent in French. 

What’s something you’d like to teach the campers?
I’m definitely open to really anything, but if I had to only pick one it would be woodworking or outdoor sports.

What can campers do to make you smile? 
Just be themselves and feel comfortable and ready to turn what they have always seen as a disability into a strength they can be proud of.

What advice would you give campers for being successful at camp?
Try our best to take what the tutors are teaching you to heart and to have fun!

Meet the Counselors: Bethany Draycott

Next up in our Meet the Counselors series: Bethany Draycott! Bethany hails from Blackpool on the northwest coast of England. Her energetic spirit will bring a whole lot of fun to camp. She’s up for a summer of fun, trying lots of new things, and making memories to last a lifetime. Please welcome us in joining Bethany!

Tell us a little bit about where you live and where you grew up.
So I have always lived in Blackpool which is in the United Kingdom which is famous for the Blackpool Tower and Blackpool pleasure beach. I live with my mum and my two siblings and 3 cats. 

When it’s your turn to control the tunes in the camp van, what kind of music will we be listening to? : ) 
Sooo everyone that I’m friends with hates my music taste as it’s loaded with artists that aren’t as new such as Avril Lavigne, Kelly Clarkson, and pink. I also love Disney channel music, give me a bit of Hannah Montana and I will be sorted. I also do know newer Disney music as well such as the music from the Descendants films. 

What do you do during the school year?
At the moment, I am working at Blackpool Pleasure Beach as a ride operator in the Nickelodeon land section. I enjoy this as it keeps me busy. 

What’s one thing campers would be surprised to learn about you? 
I am also dyslexic myself and I didn’t know until I was 19. I am now 22 and have a couple of years to learn about my dyslexia and find out what works for me. Another thing that I’m a bit scared to mention is that I know how to braid hair, so I will be expecting to be braiding hair a lot this summer which I’m happy to do. 

Dog or cat person?
So I like both but I’ve never had a dog so I can’t really speak much about them, I 100% want one though when I’m older. I have 3 cats and they’re called Maddie, Minnie, and Luna and I’m going to miss them so much this summer. 

How do your friends describe you?
I’ve got them to answer this and they said  “ Energetic, bubbly, small in height but a big personality” 
This is true, I’m always being told that I talk a mile a minute.

What can campers do to win your heart?
Just to be themselves and enjoy themselves this summer, and for them to know that if they need anything then I am here for them. 

What advice would you give campers for being successful at camp?
Just to try their best, that’s all I can ask for, and to give things a chance, as you will never know that you won’t like something if you don’t give it a try. 

What are your hopes for this summer? / What are you most looking forward to this summer?
I’m hoping that this will be the best summer that I’ve ever had and I’m looking forward to it so much, I am also looking forward to the weather in America as in the UK, it is nearly always cold and wet so it will make a nice change.

Meet the Counselors: Kyle Henry

We’re excited to introduce you to Kyle Henry from Australia! We’re thrilled to bring some more international counselors to Camp Spring Creek this summer. Kyle is sure to keep us all laughing this summer and his flair for the dramatics should make skit night a blast. Please join us in welcoming Kyle!

Tell us a little about where you are from, describing it for those who are likely never to have been there before. If you have out-of-town visitors, where do you take them?
Born and raised in Melbourne, Australia. Top 3 things to visit in the city are the beaches, the Eureka tower, and the Queen Victoria market. Melbourne is super multicultural so there are so many great restaurants with cuisines from all around the world. We're known for our laneways throughout the city that are filled with awesome street art and hidden coffee shops, I don't drink coffee but apparently we have the best in the world.

What do you do during the school year?
I work in a primary school at the moment doing before and after school care. So I will make breakfast in the mornings and afternoon tea for the children I have in for the afternoon, set out art activities, play board games and go outside to run around and play games. It's great fun for the kids while they either wait for school to start or wait to get picked up. 

When it’s your turn to control the tunes in the camp van, what kind of music will we be listening to? 
Little bit of Aussie indie rock I reckon. 

If you were able to cook one meal for the campers this summer, what would it be?
Probably a lasagne, only ever got compliments for the meal, or tacos just because they're my favourite food. 

What’s one thing campers would be surprised to learn about you? 
I'm colourblind, so sometimes blues and purples mix together and yellows and green look the same. 

What are you most looking forward to this summer?
Most looking forward to meeting everyone! Hoping I can make lifelong friends and learn a bunch of new things.

How do your friends describe you?
Funny and Creative. 

What can campers do to make you smile? 
Honestly just being themselves! Anytime someone is really feeling themselves and in a super good mood I can't not smile, love when anyone, especially kids, tell me all about something they are passionate about.

What should they avoid doing around you?
Making noise while you eat is the only thing I truly don't like. 

What advice would you give campers for being successful at camp?
Give your all in anything you try! Always put your best foot forward, try new things, and never give up.

Meet the Counselors: Olivia Roach

Summer is approaching quickly and we’re all excited to have some life back at camp. We’ve got some amazing staff joining us this summer and we can’t wait for you to meet them. First up is Olivia Roach. This hard-working, fun-loving, outdoor enthusiast has a long history with Camp Spring Creek. We first knew her as a 10 year old camper who was full of energy and spunk. We’re so glad to have her back as a counselor this summer. Get to know more about Olivia below.

Tell us a little bit about where you live and where you grew up. Where would you take an out of town visitor?

I'm from Statesville NC, a small town north of Charlotte. I currently go to school in Kentucky. If anyone stops by Statesville we have to go to the Yellow Deli; it's a really cool sandwich shop with great food. Of course, I would take them for a hike around Lake Norman State Park. 

It’s your turn to control the tunes in the camp van, what kind of music will we listen to? 

I'm a die-hard Taylor Swift fan, so listening to her is necessary. Harry Styles is dropping a new album which will probably make the cut. I also listen to folk and acoustic. 

What’s your best camp memory?

I have so many great memories at camp, but I think my favorite was during swim classes. I love swimming, and when I would do diving games, I always had the best time. 

How do you think you'll be the same (or different) from your counselors?

I have the perspective of both a camper and a counselor. I honestly can relate to what the campers are going through during camp, which might make me a little different. 

What’s one thing campers would be surprised to learn about you?

When I get nervous, I talk with a slight British accent. 

Morning person or night person?

I'm more of a morning person. 

What do you like to do in your free time?

I enjoy running, reading, and course watching Netflix. 

How do your friends describe you?

My friends say I'm fun-loving, goofy, and sarcastic. 

What should campers do to ‘get on your good side’?

I love jokes; the more, the merrier. 

What should they avoid doing around you? 

I don't particularly appreciate complaining, so just try to avoid doing it in general. 

What advice would you give campers for being successful at camp?

Camp is a great way to make friends. Make sure to make the best of it and try new things. Tutoring and study hall, try your best. 

Olivia making tie-die at camp

Olivia on an overnight hiking trip in 2015

A Day at Camp Spring Creek

Two-time camper Eleonore S. wrote this last summer to share what an average day is like for future and prospective campers.

A DAY AT CAMP SPRING CREEK

This is what a day at Camp Spring Creek looks like: 

In the morning, we wake up at 7:15 am to get dressed for the day. We have to clean our cabin to hopefully win room inspection.

Afterward, we go downstairs to the dining hall where we have assigned seats. We then have a reading hour, followed by according to my schedule, typing class where we learn how to type without looking.

Second period, I have woodshop. Then, according to me, this class is one of the best: swimming.

After a short break for lunch, I go directly to art where Heidi, our art teacher, teaches us how to make all kinds of intricate and creative things. 

Tutoring is next; it's great!

For the last period, we get assigned to groups, in which we do different activities such as gaga ball, yoga, or even water polo. Next, we go to study hall to work on homework. After dinner we all have an evening activity that varies every day.

Finally, after a long nice day, we go to bed and wake up the next morning and repeat the previous day. 

Despite the busy schedule, all campers take on the mantle and accept the challenge.

Thank you to Eleonor for this report!

Meet the Counselors: May Hatmi

We’re excited to welcome May Hatmi as a girls’ counselor! May is coming to us from Israel, where has recently completed her military service. May brings lots of experience with children and an amazing positive attitude! She tells us more about herself below.

Tell us a little about where you are from, describing it for those who are likely never to have been there before.

I grew up and live in a city which is called Rehovot, Israel. It isn't such a big city and it's located not far away from Tel Aviv, which most people probably know. Rehovot is an amazing city and for those who are interested in science because we have the Weizmann Institute of Science where many impressive discoveries were made.

Tell us a little about your family. 

I am almost 21 years old, the middle sister or a "sandwich girl" between one older sister who is 23 years old and one younger brother who is 15 years old. I live with my parents and with my younger brother in Israel and my older sister studies medicine in Europe. I had a dog for almost ten years (she died last year). Her name was Maple (like the syrup) and she was so cute and has been there with me and my family in so many points in our lives.

What do you do during the school year? 

In Israel, after you graduate from high school, you need to serve two or three years in the Israeli Army, so a few months after I graduated, I joined the army and served as a dentist assistant for two years (girls serve two years and boys almost three). These two years were the most enriching and maturing experiences I've ever had. I met friends for life and I was exposed to exciting stories that got into my heart. 

 Have you worked with kids before? 

During summer vacation when I was in high school, I worked as a counselor in a kindergarten summer camp. I did many amazing activities with the children. Also, I am a dancer and I was part of a dance ensemble. Part of the dance ensemble was to put on a dance performance at the end of each year.  As a senior, me and the other seniors accompanied the first-grade children in a collaborative dance which was very fun and exciting.

Did you go to camp when you were a kid? What’s your best camp memory? 

Yes, as a kid I went to many types of camps. My best memory of them (which probably will be a memory of every Israeli that went to camp as a kid) is getting chocolate milk and an empty bun for breakfast. It's kind of an Israeli tradition. 

What do you like to do in your free time?

As I mentioned before, I am a dancer. During school, I was part of a dance ensemble and when I served in the army, I danced in every chance that I had whenever I had time. Also, I really love spending time with my friends wherever we go or whatever we because I always enjoy being with them. On Saturdays, I love travel to with my family. Israel is a beautiful country and has amazing views. I’ve travel with my family since I was very young. My favorite area is the north of Israel. 

When it’s your turn to control the tunes in the camp van, what kind of music will we be listening to? : ) 

I love pop songs from all times, especially from the 2000's. My favorite ones are the quiet songs, but I listen almost everything. Also, I love soft rock such as Radiohead, Green Day and Queen. 

What’s something you’d like to teach the campers? 

I would be happy to teach them some of my dance moves. I perform modern dance, but I think I can find something that the campers will be connected to : ).

If you were able to cook one meal for the campers this summer, what would it be?
I would make them Shakshuka which is a traditional Israeli breakfast. It is eggs cooked in tomato sauce. I also love to add Bulgarian cheese on top.   

What’s one thing campers would be surprised to learn about you? 

As a high school student, I volunteered in MDA, which is the first aid organization of Israel. I was a first aid assistant and I was exposed to exciting cases and amazing life stories. I even got the chance to save life once. It felt so good to take part in a lifesaving organization.

What are your hopes for this summer? 
I hope that my dream of being a part of an American summer camp will come true this summer and that I will take experiences and people with me for the rest of my life and meet new friends from all over the world. Also that I will show the best of my skills and will learn from the campers and the other counselors.

Meet the Counselors: Ngawai MacLeod

We have a great tradition of counselors from New Zealand here at Camp Spring Creek and they are always very popular! It’s been a few years since we’ve had a ‘kiwi’ at camp, so we’re excited that Ngawai MacLeod will be representing his country this summer! The first thing people generally want to know about Ngawai is how to pronounce his name. It sounds like nah why. It’s a Maori word meaning “many waters.” Ngawai answers more questions below!

Tell us a little about where you’re from. If you have out-of-town visitors, where do you take them?

I’m from a small town on the coast of the North Island of New Zealand. We’re close to rivers and swimming holes and about a three-hour drive from the snow. When we’ve got visitors, we could go for a hike, a swim  or a surf, or to a good restuarant in town. Another great tourist spot which is worth a definite visit is Rotorua, about a one-hour drive away. It’s a great place to experience our native Maori culture. 

What do you do during the school year?

I work full-time in construction, building houses and commercial buildings.

What are your favorite outdoor activities/sport? 

I like jumping into freshwater rivers with waterfalls. That is amazing! .... especially with a group of friends. 

Morning person or night person? 

I would have to say a morning person just with having to get up early for work.

Dog or cat person?

I do like dogs, just because you can do stuff with them, like take them for walks and play fetch. 

What do you like to do in your free time? 

Hang out with my friends and family, either going out to waterholes and exploring the hills or playing board games.

What’s your secret to keeping kids happy and engaged?

Challenging them with activities that extend them just a little bit outside their comfort level....then challenging them again to build on that. 

 What can campers do to win your heart? : ) 

Accept challenges with enthusiasm and celebrate their successes with that same level of enthusiasm . Also, I do like most lollies/candy.  

What will campers be surprised to learn about you? 

I have dyslexia, too. 

What are you most looking forward to this summer?

Honestly, it'll be cool to see the other side of the world. And also it will be great to get to know all kids and other staff.

Meet the Counselors: Zuzanna Glica

Summer is just around the corner! We are excited that our counseling staff is now complete and we can’t wait for you to meet them! First up is Zuzanna Glica. This hard-working, outdoor-loving counselor-to-be is coming to us from Poland. She brings her positive attitude and if we’re lucky, she’ll bring some of the sweet treats her hometown is famous for! : ) Zuzanna tells us a little more about herself below.

Tell us a little about where you’re from. 

I live in Milanówek with my family. It’s small town about 30km from Warsaw–the capital city of Poland. Along with two other cities, Milanówek belongs to “Warsaw’s suburban Garden Tri-city.” Milanówek is famous for antique villas, trees, and something for those with a sweet tooth–delicious fudge!

What do you do during the school year? 

Currently, I’m studying transport at Warsaw University of Technology and working in PKP Intercity as office worker. 

Did you attend camp when you were a child?

I went to a few camps as a child. It was great time. Sometimes we went swimming, bike riding, or played games. Other times we went skiing and hiking. I tried a lot of new things and made friends.

How do your friends describe you?

As a nice, honest, hardworking and smiling person, for sure. They’ll certainly describe me as a workaholic, but in a good way because they know perfectly, that I just like working! And they know I’m always looking for a good side in every situation. 

What are your favourite outdoor games and activities? 

I like kayaking, walking with my dog, and hiking, but my favourite activities are bike riding and swimming. 

What are you looking forward to teaching the campers this summer?

I’d like to teach them how to work in a group and how to find fun in everyday situations.

What should campers do to ‘get on your good side’? 

I appreciate cooperation and a real smile–those are the most important things for me.

What’s your favourite food?

I don’t think that I can choose one dish. I like dumplings, spaghetti, pancakes, beetroot soup, and many, many, many others. 

What are your hopes for this summer? 

I really want to meet new people, contribute to our campers’ personal growth, and learn as much as I can.

What advice would you give campers for being successful at camp?

First of all, just be yourself. Smile a lot and have fun! Work hard and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Don’t worry to ask questions or share problems. Remember, we’ll be there for you!

Are you a Harry Potter fan? If so, which house would you be in? 

Oh yes! That was the first book series I read in English. The Sorting Hat would choose Hufflepuff for me, because of my diligence, tolerance, and justice.