Stellar Start to Second

With the two-weekers preparing for their final full day at camp tomorrow, I thought an update on all things Chippewa was in order. By now, hot dog letters should have arrived home, as well as the staff notes from our counselors, sharing news of Capture the Flag, archery ranks passed, a camper-counselor doubles tennis tournament and canoe trips down the Mississippi or the Crow Wing.

The first few days were hot ones and most of us bid a hasty retreat to Cass or Buck Lake as often as the schedule allowed. In fact, this first morning of camp found what must have been a near record number of dippers. Before too long, however, the heat headed East and we were left with clear blue skies, cool evenings and warm days. Perfect camp weather.

Early in the season, Bearpaw tennis courts welcomed the girls from nearby Camp Birchwood for an afternoon of tennis. All ages and tennis skill levels had a chance to hit the ball and we had a blast. The Chippewa tam included Ben C., Tommy K., Hunter H., Jake E., Steven L., Robert T., Grant A. and Miles A.

The trip house swung into action by the end of the first week. By the end of the session, four Hook Island fish trips, three Crow Wing river trips, three Star Island explorations, Kopka River and Quetico Canadian canoe trips and several other day and overnight paddling trips will pack out and return to camp. As I type, the guys from Manitou are preparing to leave for a six-day Canadian prep trip to Voyageurs National Park. Even with all of the activities in camp, much of the adventure for our campers can still be found on the trail. Case and point was Cody O.'s 32" northern pike caught at Hook Island, as well as Mick M.'s monster from the deep...the one that got away. I'm excited to hear more stories as the trips return.

Today's activity updates after dinner reported ranks passed and progress in everything from fencing to trap shooting. Some examples? Ben M. got up on skis for the first time, while Stephen S. was cutting rooster tails in slalom. Down at the Potato Patch, Sam Ch. and Charlie M. took a few shots at the clay pigeons, while Robert H. passed his ProMarksman on the riflery range and Phillip P. earned his Able Seaman in sailing. It was indeed a busy day around camp.

Yes, it's been a wonderful couple of weeks at camp. And yes, many of our time-honored traditions will be replayed in the final two weeks of summer 76. Whether it be the Counselor Hunt or a secret tam ceremony somewhere in the remote wilderness of Canada, something exciting is just around the corner. It will be fun to watch the adventure unfold.

More to come.....

Update submitted by MKT