The Shrinking World

A quick letter to a camp family in China, a phone call from a Chippewa counselor in England, an IM chat with camp alumni in Paris and San Diego and an email to a prospective family in Owasso, Oklahoma...these were my morning tasks. Isn't it remarkable how the world continues to shrink?

One of the more amazing aspects of camp has always been the ability to truly shrink the world. Whether it was introducing five boys from Tulsa to the northwoods of Minnesota in 1935, or the hiring of international staff begun in the 1970s, or even the arrival of our first Mexican camper in 1981, the ability of camp to put faces and personalities to names or even email addresses is a unique benefit to camp.

Natalie and I attended the beautiful wedding of alumnus Curtis Cox in Houston over the weekend. (Congrats Curtis and Lauren!!) Among those standing as groomsmen was Pato Cano, a native of Mexico City and one of Curtis' camp friends. It's wonderful to know that camp was responsible for their friendship that spans between two countries and cultures. I also reflect on the number of close friends that Natalie and I share from other countries (and states) due largely to our relationship with camp. It's a remarkable testament to the power of camping.

Sailing Fleet Grows

Two new additions are coming this summer for the Chippewa sailors. On order are two Hobie Waves, made possible through gifts from alumni with a love for sailing. These 13' catamarans are a blast. The large sail on these nimble boats make them a fast, fun and wet addition to the Chippewa fleet. Best of all, they are quick to rig. A quick pull on the main halyard, push off of the Cass Lake beach and you'll be underway.

Maybe Jolson will finally have his day of sailing.

(sorry guys, the girls aren't included.)

The New 'Chippewa Story' Video

We have recently released the new Chipppewa Introductory DVD. Take a quick look at the opening segment, part one of four short 'stories' that introduce Camp Chippewa. I think you'll enjoy it.

Quetico Turns 100

This is the Centennial Year for the Quetico Provincial Park, the prime paddling destination for our first year Canadian canoe trippers. Congratulations Quetico!

The Quetico has set up a stewardship program in honor of this landmark year. Check out their website for more info. The Quetico is a remarkable resource for us and for all paddlers.

Snow Tubing Video

We had a great time at the Minneapolis Rendezvous.

Chippewa 2008 Photo Book

If you liked the Photo Book that made its way around to all of the Rendezvous events and would like to order one for yourself, check out this link to Picaboo. They are offering a free 2nd copy until the end of March!

More Curling Photos from Milwaukee

Curling Is Even Cooler Than You Think

The Winds of March

The first chapter of Sigurd Olson's book, The Singing Wilderness, is entitled: The Winds of March. Today is the first of March and there is something in the wind. Plans are being made now for 2010. It will be a big celebration at Camp Chippewa, and invitations are already a hot item. Need a clue? Look up element number 29 on the periodic table of the elements. More to come!