Charles L. Sommers Alumni Association Blog

WANTED: One or more persons willing to serve as Editor of Reflections.

Mon, 20 May 2013 04:18:28 GMT

WANTED: One or more persons willing to serve as Editor of Reflections. The Board of Directors is still searching for one or more candidates qualified to serve as Editor. Click her to learn more.

That’s right. We’re still looking for one or more persons who can serve as Editor or Co-Editors for Reflections. There are no defined criteria, but clearly writing skills are paramount. Knowledge of how publishing works helps, but isn’t necessary. Being able to work with the Board of Directors and to solicit articles and photos from the Board and the general membership is important. Think of it like trying to herd a group of Charlie Guides. Herding cats would be akin to this.

Please submit a letter explaining why you’d be a good choice to saa@holry.org and include a resume if you have one handy.

Join us for seminar day at seasonal staff training

Mon, 20 May 2013 04:15:00 GMT

Do you have some expertise or knowledge that you’d be willing to share and teach a new generation of Charlie Guides? Whether you are an expert in fire-building, voyageur history or something as seemingly simple as paddling technique, June 9^th is your opportunity to share your experience during the seminar day at the seasonal staff training. Click here to learn more how you can participate!

For 90 years, the difference between the Northern Tier and others that outfit or take Scouts into the BWCAW and Quetico Provincial Park is one person; the interpreter. But, no two interpreters are the same. One may be an expert fisherman, while another may be an expert in Ojibwe culture. Another may meet her crew in a voyageur’s outfit and regale her crew with fur trade songs, while another may tell his crew about the folklore and science of the northern lights.

The annual seminar day during seasonal staff training is a chance for interpreters to pick and choose, ath their option, topics they’d like to learn more about. SAA members provide the knowledge and expertise to present a variety of topics relative to dealing with youth and adult leaders in Canoe Country. Whether you are an expert in photography, team-building, baking, portaging, flora and fauna, or meteorology, you are invited to come up and be a part of the seminar day. Most sessions range from 50 minutes to 2 hours. Some are hands’ on while other presentations may be in class-room setting. If you are a presenter, it is up to you to decide.

We’d like you to join fellow SAA members and share your knowledge with a new generation of Charlie Guides. Please call Mike Holdgrafer at 918-630-9437 or email him at mike.holdgrafer@dtag.com. Housing on-base is available.

How young at heart are you? Find out this June!

Mon, 20 May 2013 04:01:19 GMT

SAA members are invited to be non-paid, volunteer interpreters for Northern Tier crews arriving during the period June 23 to July 1, 2013. Click here to find out more about this exciting opportunity!

Due to an unusual early season peak of crews attending the Northern Tier High Adventure Program in late June 2013, Leslie Thibodeaux, Director of Program, has extended an invitation to members of the SAA to be non-paid, volunteer interpreters for crews arriving during the period June 23 to July 1, 2013.

Potential interpreters must be registered members of the Boy Scouts of America. If you are not currently registered, you can register with BSA through the Northern Tier. All individuals must be trained and certified in Youth Protection, Safety Afloat, Safe Swim Defense, and Weather Hazards, all of which are offered on-line by the BSA. Potential interpreters must also provide a BSA Annual Health and Medical Record that includes a certification by an examining health care provider that you may participate in Northern Tier canoe treks.

Proficiency with and an understanding of current policies and practices applicable to both paid staff and participants at the Northern Tier by volunteer interpreters is essential. Volunteer interpreters should plan to arrive one day in advance of your assigned crew for training and familiarization of policies, practices, equipment and facilities, including a BSA swim test.

If you are interested in being a volunteer interpreter, please contact Leslie at 218-365-4811 for more details.

2013 Alumni Work Week: Please join us for a North woods break from your usual routine!

Mon, 20 May 2013 03:53:34 GMT

Please join us for a North woods break from your usual routine!

This is your chance for sweat equity and camaraderie with fellow alumni as well as both Ely and Canadian staff, and to make your mark on this priceless Northern Tier asset.

Work week is June 3 – June 11 and will involve continued restoration of the Lodge. We’ll be starting a new phase of work on the museum and interpretive center function of that building, while preserving its program capabilities.

Meals and bunkhouse accommodations at the base will be provided at no cost. You’ll have the added bonus of participation in training week activities as your interest and time permit, and also a chance to meet and interact with current seasonal staff as well as fellow alumni. Bring your skills and/or enthusiasm; on the job training will be provided.

We can use help for a day or a week, so come as early and stay as late as you can! If you’re planning to come, or need more information, contact Dick Shank at richard.shank@comcast.net, Home (651) 698-5375, or Cell (612) 859-7268. Consider contacting also some of your contemporaries and make your own reunion part of the fun. We’re planning an Alumni volunteer dinner on the evening of June 8.

You can also combine some time at the base with some fishing and/or canoeing! As in prior years, some of our participants have worked a few days and then headed out on the trail. We hope to hear from you!

Coral Reef Sailing: What to Wear?

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 03:10:57 GMT

Information and Registration

Just as the BSA’s High Adventure Bases offer different cuisines, each base has a different fashion focus.

At Northern Tier the fashion emphasis is on boots, but not just any boots, but jungle boots. Jungle boots are boots that allow the water that flows into the boots to flow out of the boots.

At Philmont likewise the fashion emphasis is on boots. Philmont staffers seem mildly obsessed with boots.

On your Coral Reef Sailing Adventure, February 17 – 23, 2012, you won’t be wearing boots! Instead, you will need to consider what swimming attire fits your form and physique. The Sea Base helps you focus on your swimwear selection with the following advice:

“All swimming attire must be modest. For men, Speedo-type swimsuits are not appropriate; swim suits should have liners in them. For women, bikinis are not appropriate; one-piece swimsuits and modest tankini suits are considered appropriate.”

For those with buff bods and enough bravado to sport Speedos, thongs, un-lined board shorts, bikinis, etc., there are beaches in Key West where you will be warmly welcomed following the Coral Reef Sailing Adventure.

Questions? Contact saa@holry.org

Registration, cost, and contact information here.

2012 SAA Seasonal Staff Scholarship Program recipients

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 02:55:45 GMT

The SAA announces this year's recipients of the Seasonal Staff Scholarship Program. The program provides qualified individuals with post-secondary assistance of a total up to $3,000. Recipients must exhibit both academic competence and exemplary ongoing service to youth.

The 2012 SAA Seasonal Staff Scholarship Program recipients are:

Ellen Amundson
Benjamin Anklan (David Hyink Scholarship)
Jordan Cecil
Collin Cooper (Butch Diesslin Scholarship)
Mark Dierauer
Robert Hinrichs
Adel Huemiller
Matthew Marshall
Heath McCasland
Joseph Mingrone
Bradley Parker
Benjamin Rutherford (Clifford J. Hanson Memorial Scholarship)
Trevor Santy
Michael Shaughnessy (Terry J. Wall Charles Sommers Scholarship)
Michael Small
Brittany Turnis (Christopher D. Breen Memorial Scholarship)
Sally Waldman (Erickson Memorial Scholarship)
Jacob White

Congratulations to this year's recipients! Learn more about the scholarship program at: http://www.holry.org/scholarships.php

Reflections Newsletter - Summer 2012

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 04:00:16 GMT

Read the Summer 2012 edition of the Reflections Newsletter online.

Read the Reflections Newsletter - Summer 2012 (PDF) edition
Also: Online Viewer

Bid Now! SAA Reunion Premier Auction Item - Campbell's Cabins

Tue, 14 Aug 2012 07:04:14 GMT

Join us at the Charles L. Sommers Alumni Association's 2012 reunion banquet on Saturday, September 1st to bid on some fantastic auction items! Auction proceeds will support the association's Seasonal Staff Scholarship Program.

Bid Now! Support the Seasonal Staff Scholarship Program.

Mail your bid to SAA Auction, PO Box 428, Ely, MN 55731

Mail will be collected at 3:00 p.m. Friday, August 31, 2012. Late bids will not be accepted.

This year's premier auction item is a "Shirt and Skirt Package" (Husband and Wife Package) generously donated by Campbell's Cabins. The package features 3 full days and 4 nights. Accommodations, meals, 18’ boat, motor, gas, guide, return airfare from Crane Lake, MN. Must be used in 2013 season. The value of this package is Valued at $2910.00 CAD. Download the information flyer.

Cannot attend the auction? You can still bid!

If you cannot attend the 2012 Rendezvous, you may mail your bid to SAA Auction, PO Box 428, Ely, MN 55731. Do not include payment. Include your contact information so you may be notified if you have the winning bid. Mail will be collected at 3:00 p.m. Friday, August 31, 2012. Late bids will not be accepted.

The Florida Sea Base: Coral Reef Sailing Adventure

Sun, 17 Jun 2012 01:33:04 GMT

Sailing, snorkeling, fishing and new friends await you in the Florida Keys. The Florida Sea Base and Friends Association (SBAFA) is proud to host the Philmont Staff Association (PSA) and the Charles L. Sommers Alumni Association (SAA) for the 2013 Coral Reef Sailing Adventure. This is the second time this Adventure has been hosted by the SBAFA in the Exchange Program of the SBAFA, PSA and SAA.

During your Adventure, you will sail the Florida Keys in a 40-45 foot sailing vessel and have the opportunity to snorkel and fish some of the most beautiful reefs in the Keys. You’ll also learn navigation, fish identification and coral reef ecology, and hang out with friends, old and new. Except for the last night, you will sleep on your vessel and fall asleep to the rocking of the waves.

Sailing Adventure Basics

The Sailing Adventure is February 17 to February 23, 2011. The cost is $6,100 per vessel. There is a minimum of 6 sailors per vessel, maximum 7 sailors per vessel. On a per sailor basis, this means that a six sailor crew would pay $1016.66 per sailor, and a seven sailor crew would pay $871.43 per sailor. Your actual charge will be determined by taking the total cost for the number of vessels required and divided by the total number of sailors. For example, 20 sailors would require 3 vessels and the resulting charge to each sailor would be $915.

Your fee includes a berth on the vessel, all fishing licenses and gear, on-water food, (fresh -- not trail food!) snorkel gear, on base-lodging and meals, a Coral Reef Sailing Mate on base and a fully qualified captain for your vessel. You are responsible for the limited personal gear required and your transportation to and from the Sea Base in Islamorada, Florida.

Eligibility requirements

Be a current member of the SBAFA, PSA or SAA or eligible family member.
Be a registered member of the BSA.
Presented a completed medical form.
Pass the basic BSA swim check upon check in – persons not passing the swim check will be required to wear a personal flotation device at all times.
Be 13 years old and have completed 8^th grade, or 14 years old, by arrival day – youth participants will be required to present a valid ID showing proof of age.

Eligible family members are your spouse, child or step-child, sibling, parent, grandparent, grandchild, niece, nephew or in-law who meets the eligibility requirements above.

Becoming a member of the BSA is straightforward: register at your local Scout office by explaining that BSA membership is a requirement for participation in an event at the Sea Base, pay nominal fees and pass a background check.

BSA swimming requirements are simple: jump feet first into water over your head, swim 75 yards in a strong manner using a forward stroke, turn over, swim 25 yards using a resting back stroke and then float motionless on your back for one minute.

The schedule

Sunday, February 17 -- Arrive at Sea Base by 10:00 a.m., meet your Coral Reef Sailing Mate and fellow/sister sailors, have lunch in the Sea Base galley, go through swimming re-check, snorkel instruction, food pick-up and crew photos. Set sail from Sea Base before dinner and eat Sunday dinner on your vessel.
Monday, February 18 -- Sail the Keys.
Tuesday, February 19 – Sail the Keys.
Wednesday, February 20 -- rendezvous at Big Munson Island, site of the Sea Base’s Out Island Program, and complete a fun service project and tour the island. The opportunity to visit Big Munson Island is not offered to regular Coral Reef Sailing Adventure participants – just you! Then visit the Brinton Environmental Center for hot showers. Wednesday evening return to your vessel and set sail again.
Thursday, February 21 -- Sail the Keys.
Friday, February 22 -- Return to Sea Base, participate in a luau, and receive your Sea Base participant’s award. Those persons having earned participation awards at all three BSA High Adventure Bases will receive their Triple Crown Award. Spend the final night in a Sea Base bunkhouse.
Saturday, February 23 – depart Sea Base.

Deviations from the above schedule are not possible. Persons arriving a day early can sleep at the Sea Base at no charge.

How to register

To reserve your slot, you must pay a $100 deposit by November 30, 2012. After November 30th? Currently there is still space for you to sign-up! Register and pay your deposit online here. Call the Philmont Staff Association to confirm space at (575) 376-1138.

Except as set forth below, this deposit is non-refundable, but it is transferable. Immediately after November 30, the number of vessels required will be determined and the final price per sailor calculated. You will be immediately notified of the final price and the balance of the final price must be paid in full by December 10, 2012. Once paid the balance is not refundable and the purchase of trip interruption/cancellation insurance to protect you against unforeseen cancellation is advised.

In the event the number of registrants is such that all cannot be accommodated on vessels, sailors will be awarded their slot based on the order in which their registration was received, priority beginning with the first registrant. Sailors who cannot be accommodated will receive a refund of their deposit.

All registrations will be handled by Randy Saunders, Executive Director of the Philmont Staff Association. To register and get top priority for a slot mail the form below, together with your check in the amount of $100 per sailor payable to the PSA, to Randy at Executive Director, Philmont Staff Association, 17 Deer Run Road, Cimarron, NM 87714.

Don’t miss out on this – the first Coral Reef Sailing Adventure in 2011 proved to be very popular.

View the information and registration form here. (PDF)
Register and pay your deposit online

Questions? Contact Alex Nepple at saa@holry.org

Alumni Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Sun, 17 Jun 2012 01:13:23 GMT

Hol-Ry!

Butch Diesslin, Lucy Diesslin, Dave Hyink, and Steff Hyink are organizing a 10-day Eastern Caribbean Cruise, February 5-15, 2013. They are recruiting more people to join them on their voyage!

If enough sign-up the group will qualify for the associated cruise line “Group Discount”. Any group discount from the cruise line will be donated to the SAA Seasonal Staff Scholarship Program, with each member of the group receiving a pro-rated charitable donation receipt.

Group members must register through same travel agent so the group designation shows up for the customer on their cruise line’s reservation.

View the registration details here. (PDF)

Questions? Contact Butch Diesslin at butchnlucy@frontiernet.net

Interested in the 2012 Canoe Voyage, or already signed up and want to learn more?

Tue, 15 May 2012 18:15:30 GMT

Join us for a Webinar Rendezvous on Wednesday, May 30th at 7:30 p.m. CDT when we will present the basics of the 2012 Canoe Voyage and explore the route from Atikokan, Ontario to Ely, MN.

The Webinar undefined a real time presentation using your phone and computer undefined will provide you with more information about the Voyage and allow you to ask questions. The presentation will provide a brief overview of the trip including schedule, equipment needed, and will take participants on a virtual trip with photos of the trip route. The presentation will be made by Alex Nepple, former Northern Tier Interpreter, and veteran of the Atikokan to Ely route.

RSVP in advance at http://voyage.holry.org for the Webinar by Monday, May 28th. Participants will need a phone to call into the conference call and a computer with Internet connection. Further Webinar information will be provided to participants after registration.

More information about the voyage is available here.

Hol-Ry! Join us for a North Woods break from your usual routine!

Tue, 22 May 2012 03:22:14 GMT

Alumni Work Week: May 28-June 9

This is your chance for some sweat equity and camaraderie with your fellow alumni members and current staff, and to make your mark on this priceless asset, Northern Tier. This year promises to be the largest ever, with 240 seasonal staff hired, and the Sandy Bridges Program Center in operation.

“Work Week” is May 28 to June 9. We can use help for a day or a week, so come as early and stay as late as you can! Bring your skills and enthusiasm; we will provide on-the-job training. The work will involve continued restoration of the Lodge building. This large project is intended to preserve and enhance the Lodge as a museum and interpretive center for the base. The completion of this project is in sight!

Meals and accommodations on the base will be provided at no cost. You will have the added bonus of participation in training week activities as your interest and time permit. On June 9, we are planning a volunteer alumni dinner. Consider contacting your fellow alumni to participate with you and make your own reunion part of the fun.

Arrange your Work Week participation in advance with Dick Shank.
Be a member in good standing of the SAA. Join online at www.holry.org

We hope to hear from you! For more information and to arrange to participate contact Dick Shank at richard.shank@comcast.net, Home 651-698-5375, or Cell 612-859-7268.

Remembering Larry Whitmore

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 14:41:35 GMT

Friends of Larry Whitmore,

Larry Whitmore passed away on January 1, 2012. He had been battling cancer for several years. My remembrances of Larry will not be about his health issues, but rather the unique person who was my good friend and colleague.

On Thursday, January 5, 2012, there will be a visitation with family at 5 pm and a "celebration of life" remembrance service at 7pm held at the Heritage Funeral Home in Sioux Falls, SD.

Many of Larry's friends are geographically spread out, so we expect many will want to "stand up and say something" from a distance. Please leave your thoughts and memories about Larry by adding your comments on the bottom of the page or on the Obituary page (Adobe Flash required).

As near as I can figure, we met over 45 years ago, when we were both Boy Scouts in the Sioux Council Order of the Arrow ceremonial team. The Order of the Arrow is a brotherhood of honor campers in Scouting, and as the ceremonial team, we took our duties seriously. We wore special buckskin Indian garb, carefully memorized our lines, including lots of Indian words that we probably butchered in their pronunciation. We conducted a nighttime ceremony where we "tapped out" new honor campers after paddling into camp at the shore of a lake, skillfully lighting a campfire with a flaming arrow. All of this had been carefully rehearsed to maximize the impact of the solemn ceremony. Larry and I shared a respect and reverence for Indian ways, and I suspect our feelings go back to our time in the OA.

Also as Scouts, Larry and I spent time together on a wilderness canoe trip through the Charles L. Sommers Wilderness Canoe Base near Ely, MN. It was a great experience. We both ended up getting jobs there the next year, first getting trained and then working as wilderness guides. Each subsequent summer, we took 5 or 6 Scout crews into the woods for ten days at a time, paddling hundreds of miles, portaging between lakes, and "delivering the Wilderness Experience". In between trips to the woods, Larry would play his guitar, usually drawing a crowd around his locker in the guide's quarters. Some of his songs were folk songs, some were songs of the day - some of my favorites were written by Bob Dylan - and some of Larry's songs he had written himself.

Larry guided canoe trips at the Sommers Canoe Base for seven years, much longer than most guides who might last a year or two - maybe three or four at the most. Larry generally got excellent reviews from his crews - his trips were always an adventure, and that's what they came up to the Base for. Remarkably, he also got excellent reviews from his adult advisors - who weren't always there for an adventure in the woods - many were just there following up on their commitment to the boys - and Larry somehow got them into the spirit of the wilderness treks - thus earning their respect and admiration.

Larry had lots of friends in the days he was guiding - and why not? He was an adventurous voyageur among fellow voyageurs. ...someone to look up to ...to hang out with ...to aspire to be like... and he could sing and play guitar and tell stories all night long.

After our days guiding, I sort of lost track of Larry for a few years, even though were were both within a few miles of Sioux Falls. We were busy working our jobs and raising our families. We did hunt together once in awhile. My God, could that man shoot a shotgun. I understand he was a champion trap shooter. One of my favorite stories is how he got to be a "hired gun" for some of the ranchers who hosted goose hunts out on the Missouri River. Everybody paid the rancher for the experience of hunting in the "pits" based on how many geese they brought home. Larry's job would be to take the end pit, patiently waiting for everyone else take their shots, and then make sure that none of the honkers got past him. For his trouble, Larry's fee's were generally waived. I think they had his phone number on speed dial for the times when they expected a hunting party with questionable shooting skills.

Years later, Larry began to develop a series of health problems that seemed to consume his energy and change his spirit of optimism and adventure. For those of us who knew him in the good old days, he always seemed to have time for us - to laugh and sing and recall tall tales and great memories. I think it became harder and harder to change gears and be the Larry that we grew up with. The crowning blow may have been when his fingers became so numb that he couldn't play guitar.

I believe Larry is playing his guitar again now, singing, and sharing stories with his friends. In my mind, I can picture his spirit enjoying some of the many places he visited, bringing in some pheasants or catching some fish for supper. He was my great friend, and I will always remember the times we spent together.

Dave Greenlee

2011 Northern Tier Seasonal Staff Scholarship Recipients

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:41:48 GMT

The SAA announces this year's recipients of the Northern Tier Seasonal Staff Scholarship Program. The program provides qualified individuals with post-secondary assistance of a total up to $3,000. Recipients must exhibit both academic competence and exemplary ongoing service to youth.

The 2011 Northern Tier Seasonal Staff Scholarship Program recipients are:

Erin Beaton
Tim Botranger
Collin Cooper (Christopher D. Breen Memorial Scholarship)
Mark Dierauer
Paul Docimo
Jacob Dowling (Terry J. Wall Charles Sommers Scholarship)
Gail Ferguson
Matthew Hall
Robert Hinrichs
Adel Huemiller
Erik Huemiller (Cliff Hanson Scholarship)
Erik Keeler
Seth Marple (Dave Hyink Scholarship)
Corynne McCathie
Matthew McGonegle
Adam Neuman
Scott Page
Bryan Patterson (Erickson Memorial Scholarship)
Trevor Santy
Ryan Sievert (Butch Diesslin Scholarship)

Congratulations to this year's recipients! Learn more about the scholarship program at: http://www.holry.org/scholarships.php

Reflections Newsletter - Summer/Fall 2011

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:46:37 GMT

Read the Reflections Newsletter - Summer/Fall 2011 (PDF) edition (Also: Online Viewer)

Read Summer/Fall 2011 edition of the Reflections Newsletter online to learn all about what is occurring.

Program Center to be dedicated in memory of Clyde S. "Sandy" Bridges

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 00:56:32 GMT

On Saturday, August 27, 2011, the new Program Center will be formally dedicated in memory of Clyde S. "Sandy" Bridges, visionary General Manager and Base Director.

You are invited, as a member, friend, and supporter of the Charles L. Sommers Alumni Association, Inc. and Northern Tier High Adventure Program, BSA, to gather at Charles L. Sommers Wilderness Canoe Base on the shores of Moose Lake, and join Cherie Sawinski and members of Sandy's family, together with dignitaries and guests from the Boy Scouts of America and the Ely community to dedicate the Sandy Bridges Program Center.

The dedication will commence at 10:00 a.m. There will be a brief reception, program and dedication ceremony, followed by tours that will wrap up the festivities at 2:00 p.m. Lunch will be served, so please R.S.V.P. by Friday, August 19th. To R.S.V.P., please contact Karen Berg at karen.berg@scouting.org (preferred) or call her at 218-365-4811 x103.

2012 Alumni Voyage: Atikokan to Ely

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 05:06:55 GMT

Exchange Program Goes International

The Exchange Program of the Charles L. Sommers Alumni Association, Philmont Staff Association, and the Sea Base Friends and Alumni Association is pleased to announce the first-ever Exchange Program event to take place outside the United States.

The 2012 Alumni Wilderness Voyage – August 22 to September 1 -- is an exciting 9 day, 8 nights-on-the water paddling adventure where you will be able to experience the extremely remote interior of the Quetico Provincial Park in Ontario, Canada. This is a place where few others travel.

Voyageurs will begin their voyage near Atikokan, Ontario where the Northern Tier’s Donald Rogert Canoe Base is located, and will paddle in Canadian waters until the end of the trip when they cross the international boundary and finish the trip at the Charles L. Sommers Canoe Base near Ely, Minnesota. The voyage offers various routes ranging from easy to strenuous with lengths between 80 to 95 miles. Voyageurs that complete the trip will be awarded a participant’s patch from both the Charles L. Sommers Canoe Base and the Donald Rogert Canoe Base – what could be a better deal?

Explore the route from Atikokan, Ontario to Ely, Minnesota!

Voyageurs will arrive Wednesday evening, August 22 (5 p.m.) at the Northern Tier’s Charles L. Sommers Wilderness Canoe Base for dinner. After dinner voyageurs will begin outfitting and route planning and will spend the night at the base. The next day at 6:30 a.m. voyageurs will depart by shuttle to the Donald Rogert Canoe Base in Atikokan. Participants will enjoy a brief tour and lunch at the base.

The voyageurs will then proceed to Nym Lake to begin their voyage. The voyageurs will spend the next 9 days and 8 nights (Thursday to the following Friday) exploring the wilderness and solitude of the Quetico – a place where wolves, bears, moose and bald eagles abound. (The fishing is rumored to be good, too.) On Friday, August 31 the voyageurs will arrive back at the Charles L. Sommers Canoe Base. Upon arrival, the voyageurs will be greeted by the beginning festivities of the Charles L. Sommers Alumni Association’s “Rendezvous” reunion. After breakfast on Saturday voyageurs have the option to stay for the Rendezvous weekend or head home.

Voyageurs will be responsible for:

Participation fee. Includes Northern Tier program and Quetico Provincial Park camping fees.
Passport Book or Card. It is very important you apply well in advance.
Personal gear. After you register a packing list will be provided. Northern Tier provides most items including tents and stoves.
Crew gear. Individuals will be asked to contribute a few items the crew must provide (first aid kit, etc).
Transportation to and from Charles L. Sommers Canoe Base (Ely, Minnesota). As it takes about 5-6 hours to drive from the Minneapolis airport to the Charles L. Sommers Canoe Base, voyageurs should plan flights which land no later than 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 22. It is even suggested that voyageurs travel to Minneapolis on Tuesday night. On-time arrival by 5 p.m. Wednesday at the Charles L. Sommers Base is very important. Car pooling will be organized to assist voyageurs in getting from Minneapolis to the base. Hotels are available near the airport and downtown, which is easily accessible by light rail.

Timeline:

Wednesday, August 22 – Arrive at Charles L. Sommers Canoe Base (Ely, Minnesota) by 5 p.m. Dinner, outfitting, sauna and a good night’s sleep.
Thursday, August 23 – Depart by shuttle at 6:30 a.m. to Atikokan, Ontario. Tour Donald Rogert Canoe Base, eat lunch, check-in, and begin voyage on Nym Lake.
Thursday to following Friday – Paddle the Quetico Provincial Park.
Friday, August 31 – Arrive back at Charles L. Sommers Canoe Base on Moose Lake. Another sauna.
Saturday, September 1 – Breakfast. Stay for the weekend reunion or head home.

Costs:

As this voyage is longer than previous voyages – and in the Quetico – the cost is higher than past voyages. The adult participant fee includes $139 in Canadian fees; the youth fee includes $75 in Canadian fees.

The total fees are $750 per person for adults, $686 for youth under 18 for the full duration of the trip. The deposit fee to reserve your spot is $250 with the full amount due by the registration deadline of July 1, 2012. We'll accept registrations after July 1st if there is space available.

The fee includes the shuttle to Atikokan, trail food, canoes, paddles, most crew gear and a Northern Tier Interpreter.

Eligibility:

Primary participant must be a member in good standing of the Charles L. Sommers Alumni Association at the time of registration and participation.
All participants must be current registered members of the Boy Scouts of America. Contact the association if you have questions regarding this.
All participants upon arrival must provide a completed Northern Tier medical form that has been approved and signed by their medical provider. Participants must be in good physical shame and meet Northern Tier weight requirements.
All participants must be at least 13 years old by December 31st, 2012.
Have a valid Passport Book or Card and permitted to enter the country of Canada.
Before arriving pass a “BSA Swim Test” as a “Swimmer” and provide a Northern Tier swimming certification form signed by a Lifeguard or other qualified individual. Non-swimmers are not allowed.

The swimming requirements are simple: jump feet first into water over your head, swim 75 yards in a strong manner using a forward stroke, turn over, swim 25 yards using a resting back stroke and then float motionless on your back for one minute.

Prior canoeing experience is not required, but it is helpful. If you do not have canoeing experience, pick up and carefully read (several times) the Canoeing Merit Badge book.

Voyage-eligible family members are your spouse, child or step child, sibling, parent, grandparent, grandchild, niece, nephew or in-law who meets the eligibility requirements above.

Registration:

Registration cut-off is July 1, 2012. We'll accept registrations after July 1st if there is space available. It is very important that you apply for your passport well before the refund deadline so you know if there are any issues. There are no refunds after the deadline even if you are not able to attain a Passport or are denied entry into Canada.

Questions about the Voyage?

Contact the Charles L. Sommers Alumni Association at saa@holry.org

Triple Crown of High Adventure Award:

Upon completion of your voyage, you will be one step closer towards the Triple Crown Award, the award given to those who have earned participant’s awards at all three of the BSA High Adventure Bases: Northern Tier, Philmont, and Sea Base.

Cancellation:

Cancellations prior to the registration deadline of July 1, 2012 will receive a full refund.
Cancellation after the registration deadlines will not receive a refund. Monies paid can be used for another SAA or Exchange Program event (prior to the end of 2013) or can be contributed to the General Fund.
In exceptional cases – which do not include lack of a passport or denied entry into Canada – Executive Committee can authorize full refunds for cancellation after the registration deadline.

Hol-Ry! Join us for a North Woods break from your usual routine!

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 23:52:33 GMT

Alumni Work Week: May 29-June 10

This is your chance for some sweat equity and camaraderie with your fellow alumni members and current staff, and to make your mark on this priceless asset, Northern Tier. This year promises to be the largest ever, with 240 seasonal staff hired, and the new Sandy Bridges Program Center in operation!

“Work Week” is May 29 to June 10. We can use help for a day or a week, so come as early and stay as late as you can! Bring your skills and enthusiasm; we will provide on-the-job training. The work will involve continued restoration of the Lodge building. This large project is intended to preserve and enhance the Lodge as a museum and interpretive center for the base. The completion of this project is in sight!

Meals and accommodations on the base will be provided at no cost. You will have the added bonus of participation in training week activities as your interest and time permit. On June 10, we are planning a volunteer alumni dinner. Consider contacting your fellow alumni to participate with you and make your own reunion part of the fun.

Arrange your Work Week participation in advance with Dick Shank.
Early sign-up is strongly encouraged to help Northern Tier with planning (the base will be very busy with 240 staff!).
Be a member in good standing of the SAA. Join online at www.holry.org

As in prior years, some of our alumni have worked a few days and then headed out on the trail. The base will be glad to help outfit you if needed (advance arrangements with Northern Tier are required).

We hope to hear from you! For more information and to arrange to participate contact Dick Shank at richard.shank@comcast.net, Home 651-698-5375, or Cell 612-859-7268.

Crossing Portages - Desktop Wallpaper

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 23:07:29 GMT

To recognize the launch of the Charles L. Sommers Alumni Association's (SAA) Crossing Portages - "Continuing the Journey" pledge campaign a special edition desktop wallpaper has been released. Download your free desktop wallpaper below!

If you have not done already, check out the Crossing Portages Web page. Pledges from the campaign help the SAA continue programs that support the mission of Northern Tier. A pledge at any level is greatly appreciated.

Standard Desktop Wallpaper (1024 x 768):

Download (Right-click and select "Save Picture As..." or "Save Image As...")

Wide Screen Desktop Wallpaper (1440 x 900):

Download (Right-click and select "Save Picture As..." or "Save Image As...")

Note, while we are glad to provide these desktop wallpapers we cannot provide technical assistance to download the wallpapers or change your desktop.

SAA - PSA Madison Reunion (Canoecopia is here!)

Sun, 27 Feb 2011 18:25:40 GMT

Where
Great Dane Pub
2980 Cahill Main
Fitchburg, WI

When
Saturday, March 12 @ 6:30pm.
People will gather for dinner and fellowship.

Come join members from the Charles L. Sommers Alumni Association and Philmont Staff Association for an evening of sharing stories and making new friends who love High Adventure. Bring photos and other mementos. We all will initially gather at the bar, then be seated as a group. There is no advance reservation, but one of us will arrive early to arrange seating.

RSVP to online to let us know you are coming.

We are looking forward to seeing you and your family, and sharing our love of Northern Tier and Philmont.

This same weekend Canoecopia, a large paddler expo hosted by Rutabaga, will be held in Madison, WI on the weekend of March 11-13, 2011. This event is held at Alliant Energy Center. Industry experts, educators, suppliers, and Northern Tier High Adventure will be at Canoecopia. There will be over 20,000 attendees over the weekend. The hours of events for the weekend are: Friday – 4pm to 9:00pm, Saturday – 9:00am to 6:00pm, and Sunday – 10:00am to 5:00pm. Cost for attendance is $15.00 for the weekend. More information is available at www.canoecopia.com.

Charles L. Sommers Alumni Association Blog

WANTED: One or more persons willing to serve as Editor of Reflections.

Join us for seminar day at seasonal staff training

How young at heart are you? Find out this June!

2013 Alumni Work Week: Please join us for a North woods break from your usual routine!

Coral Reef Sailing: What to Wear?

2012 SAA Seasonal Staff Scholarship Program recipients

Ellen Amundson

Benjamin Anklan (David Hyink Scholarship)

Jordan Cecil

Collin Cooper (Butch Diesslin Scholarship)

Mark Dierauer

Robert Hinrichs

Adel Huemiller

Matthew Marshall

Heath McCasland

Joseph Mingrone

Bradley Parker

Benjamin Rutherford (Clifford J. Hanson Memorial Scholarship)

Trevor Santy

Michael Shaughnessy (Terry J. Wall Charles Sommers Scholarship)

Michael Small

Brittany Turnis (Christopher D. Breen Memorial Scholarship)

Sally Waldman (Erickson Memorial Scholarship)

Jacob White

Reflections Newsletter - Summer 2012

Bid Now! SAA Reunion Premier Auction Item - Campbell's Cabins

The Florida Sea Base: Coral Reef Sailing Adventure

Alumni Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Interested in the 2012 Canoe Voyage, or already signed up and want to learn more?

Hol-Ry! Join us for a North Woods break from your usual routine!

Remembering Larry Whitmore

2011 Northern Tier Seasonal Staff Scholarship Recipients

Reflections Newsletter - Summer/Fall 2011

Program Center to be dedicated in memory of Clyde S. "Sandy" Bridges

2012 Alumni Voyage: Atikokan to Ely

Exchange Program Goes International

Voyageurs will be responsible for:

Timeline:

Costs:

Eligibility:

Registration:

Questions about the Voyage?

Triple Crown of High Adventure Award:

Cancellation:

Hol-Ry! Join us for a North Woods break from your usual routine!

Crossing Portages - Desktop Wallpaper

SAA - PSA Madison Reunion (Canoecopia is here!)