Interview with Brian Croft- New Program Director
Brian Croft- Camp Ondessonk Program Director
What were the first three things you did when you arrived at Camp Ondessonk?
Took my wife on a hike around the grounds, it was really pretty outside and I really was putting off unpacking.
Went and saw Clyde the Donkey. Clyde was a big reason I took this job, and I wanted to spend some time with him.
Got lost… Tried to find Pakentuck, I found it, but then had a little issue finding my way back.
If you were a Superhero, which one would you be and why?
I was always a big fan of the hulk. You know everyone in the camp world is trying to “go green”, I just figure he takes that to the next level.
What are you most excited about for this summer?
I have been training my whole life for the professional gaga circuit. I think that camp will help me reach my goal! Some people have called me the Chuck Norris of Gaga!
What was the most interesting trip you have ever taken? Why?
When I was 14, my grandfather had just passed away. We flew down to Corpus Christi, Texas, where he lived, and visited with my step-grandmother. When we left, we drove his truck and camper back to Illinois. There were four of us, and it was a single bed cab. 22 hours…. Awful!
What was your first unexpected moment after arriving at Camp?
Ozark General Store Bacon Cheddar Ranch Fries… So good and so close! The program staff took me there my first day, I’m addicted.
Favorite meal?
Anything Rachelle cooks. My goal for the summer is to not end up looking like Jabba the hut, but with Rachelle in the kitchen, it’s not looking good. Her Biscuits and Gravy for breakfast can make anyone a morning person.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Being a part of this amazing family. The Ondessonk family spans more than half a century and to be a part of it all it truly amazing. I can honestly say that I have landed my dream job.
Favorite movie?
The godfather… I know it’s cliché, but I can’t help it.
What is your favorite tradition from childhood, that you would love to pass on?
Every summer for the past 60 years, my family has been going to Black River Lodge in Lesterville, Missouri. We go the same week every year. It’s where I proposed to my wife, and I hope one day to bring our kids there, (after they go to summer camp of course)
If you were a tree (or animal) what kind of tree (animal) would you be? Why?
Clyde the donkey…. Smart, sophisticated, handsome, he’s got it all!
If you were a Star Wars® character, which one would it be? Why?
I would say Chewbaca, but Jeremy is the hairy one, so I am going to probably be an Ewok. Cute but dangerous…
What is your favorite drink? Why?
Coffee… People always ask how I stay so hyper during camp, it’s no secret, I am never far removed from my coffee. Yes I probably have a whole in my stomach the size of Rhode Island, but hey, that’s what I am willing to sacrifice to camp!
What would I find in your refrigerator right now?
Leftovers, I decided it was time to do the annual defrost the freezer and eat everything in it in a short amount of time!
What is the last book you read? Give a plot summary.
I would like to say that it was some thought provoking book about nature by John Muir, but it was the hunger games. Plot summary… don’t want to ruin the movie!
If you could trade places with any other person for a week, famous or not famous, living or dead, real or fictional. with whom would it be?
I would love to trade places with my dogs, riley and charity. I don’t know what it is about them, but they always seem so happy. I wonder what their thinking about?
What was the last movie you went to see?
The last movie I went to see…. Hmmm, I guess it would have been the Hunger games. I went with program staff, it was amazing.
What is your favorite movie (song)?
Favorite song – Rise and Shine, I haven’t lived it yet, but I’ve watched youtube videos of campers belting it! I am excited to witness it first hand.
Aliens land in front of you, and request that you return with them to their planet in exchange for anything you desire, and the ability to hold any position in their society. Which desire and position would you choose?
My desire would be an unlimited supply of bacon. And the position…. Professional Gaga player!
If you could be any character in fiction, whom would you be?
No question, either Harry Potter or Han Solo. They are so much alike that it’s hard to choose.
If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see cast as you in the lead role?
Mike Jennings, I know he’s not a Hollywood celebrity, but I think he would be an amazing actor.
What is something that not a lot of people know about you, but you WISH more people COULD know?
Hard question, I’m kind of an open book. Let’s see… I would have to say my gaga skills. I know that a lot of people think that after the age of 23, your gaga skills go down. I disagree, I think I am in my gaga prime and am ready to dominate the octagon!