Proctor Journal

This week’s First National Bank of Proctor Academic All-Star is Mark Ostrander.

Art with instructor Ms. Barb Steen is his favorite class this school year.

“It’s a fun class where I can relax and be creative. Ms. Steen allows me to express myself,” comments Mark.

Art instructor Ms. Barb Steen remarks, “Mark is such a wonderful bright spot in my day. He has such an eye for art and works extremely hard. His killer sense of humor and way with people will allow him to go far. I am so proud of him.”

Mark is interested in attending the College of St. Scholastica or UMD. His major area of study will be Physical Therapy with a minor in Sports Medicine. He would like to obtain a job locally.

He participated in soccer, cross country running, Nordic skiing and track. He also played AYSA soccer every summer.

As a member of Pike Lake Community Church, Mark is involved in their Youth Group and was in charge of Vacation Bible School for the summer of 2007. He also volunteered at St. Luke’s Hospital during that summer. He is a member of the “Good Question” Youth Band at Grace Lutheran Church.

“I love music,” Mark says. “I sing, play guitar, and also enjoy going to rock shows.”

He recalls, “As a freshman, I had one of the lead roles in the musical ‘Footloose’. I was really nervous in front of the whole school.” Mark wants to keep acting while at college and in the community.

Mark’s parents are Frank and Penny Ostrander of Duluth. His dad remarks, “Mark has a lot of potential. I’m sure when he decides what he wants to do, he will succeed. I am most proud of his personality. Mark has a lot of love. He just likes people. I love to watch him go through a crowd giving hugs, hand shakes, high fives, and ‘nucks’. This tired, crabby world needs Mark.”