Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Happy Holidays from Camp!

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Friday, December 16, 2011

Holiday Shopping Guide - Lower Camp

We're back with more ideas for the holidays.  This time, it's down to Lower Camp we go.  Many of these campers are in their first or second summer at Chippewa, so here are some fun things to get ready for summer 2012!

Nite Ize Bug Light - Not a whole lot to say here, except that this is a fun little light to have hanging around your area in the cabin.  Since we don't have bugs in our cabins, this seems like a reasonable replacement.  About $13 for cool factor.

Why Not Games - Knots aren't just for sailors or fishermen, they're for aspiring canoe trippers as well.  This is a great kit to get a head start on knots.  Great illustrated cards to help keep everyone busy for a while as they hone their skills.  Just $5!

Plastic Fencing Training Set - Hey campers, you can thank me later for this! Yes, I may be the fencing master at camp and yes, I may be sympathetic to all things fencing, but these are pretty slick.  What swashbuckling camper wouldn't want this!  While it is very cool looking, it is also very practical if you have an aspiring fencer.  In reading the reviews, you will see that this set helps develop proper skills in the sport of fencing, unlike a random nerf set of foam swords!  I'm a fan.  And if you are real enthusiastic, opt for the wireless scoring option that will make it even cooler and more accurate for true fencers.  Mask and foil set (two color choices) starts at $68 and is on sale!

Don't forget to read last year's suggestions for more great ideas, like the Eyeclops!



Monday, December 12, 2011

Photo album and Smugmug updated with lost photos.

While putting together this years photo album I happened across some photos that did not make into smugmug. Needless to say I added them immediately. I also couldn't help but notice just how many great photos we have from 2011! It was a special summer and we have a lot of pictures that capture that fact beautifully. If you haven't seen them yet you need to go check them out.

I will be finished with the 2011 photo album in a few days and will post a link both here and on our Facebook page that will you allow you to view it or get yourself one. It sure has been fun reliving last summer.

Thursday, December 08, 2011

Holiday Shopping Guide - Upper Camp

Let's move right up the line to Upper Camp.  These guys will be spending less and less time in camp as their trips get longer in Canada.  So, I'll again be focusing on what the guys might like if they're on Canadians.

Cabela's Digital Fish Scale - I like this small scale.  There are some giants lurking in the depths of the Canadian lakes and rivers and if you want proper bragging rights, then this little gadget should do the trick.  Nice price at just $13.

GoPro HD Hero2 - I can almost hear the phone ringing after I post this suggestion.  By far the most expensive item I have ever recommended and no doubt I may be pandering a bit to the campers on this one.  But the reality is that this is an awesome video camera that has a million uses in and out of camp, especially for the active ones in the family.  There were two of these cameras in camp during 2011 and the videos were great.  We have some wonderful footage of shooting rapids and portaging that could only be captured with a device like this.  And yes, a camper brought one of them to camp.  It's lightweight and easy to operate. Though ti costs more than most things I'd recommend, it's less than other great video cameras, so it makes the final cut.  This one is listed at $299, but shop around for the best price.

Fred Senior Cardboard Moosehead - Hanging above the door of Knutson Hall is a moose rack brought back to camp in the 1970s from the Bloodvein River. The name of that moose rack is the tam-a-rack. As you know, tams are a big deal at Chippewa.  They are earned only on Canadian trips and it is with great pride that, upon entering Knutson Hall, a Chippewa camper or counselor reaches up and hangs his tam on the moose rack.  The tam-a-rack is reserved only for tams.  I realize that some moms may not want a dead carcass on their walls at home, so this is a great substitute.  Grab the cardboard moose rack, hang it on the wall and each tam can hang happily in his room.  It's about $50 and they get to put it together!


Don't forget, you can also find last year's ideas for Upper Camp by clicking the "shopping guide" label below.

Wednesday, December 07, 2011

Chippewa Gets A Mention On Intentional Parent

Great thoughts from the panel about being creative with your children.  Look for the Chippewa mention at around 35:20.  Also a few gift ideas in here!

Thanks for the shout, Tina!

Friday, December 02, 2011

Holiday Shopping Guide - Middle Camp

Ah, Middle Camp!  Seemingly always in the middle of the heap when it comes to lining up for camp store (e.g. "Lower Camp, you're first and head right up the line" or "Let's start with Upper Camp and come down").  Well, let's break the routine and begin this year's shopping guide with the guys from Chalet.

Last year's guide had some great ideas for this age group, especially since they are really beginning to build their skills in so many activities.  I thought we could take a slightly different tack with this year's ideas.  So, for all of you Mom's and Dad's, here it goes, Chippewa's guide to what dudes want for the holidays:


"Don't Die Out There" Playing Cards - As campers enter Middle Camp, their canoe trips get longer and generally they spend more time out of camp at Hook Island or on the Apostle Sail Trip.  A favorite past time is playing cards in your tent in the evening, so why not add a little survival silliness to the whole thing.  Very fun!

JOBY GorillaTorch Switchback Lamp -  I like JOBY products, like the Gorillapod that I recommended last year.  This is a slick light set that is a combination lamp and head light.  Great in camp and on the trail since it packs small.  I have the WestMarine listing for about $39, but it's also on Amazon for all of you Prime-timers out there.

Portable Ping Pong Set - As any Chippewa camper knows, we play table tennis, not ping pong, at Chippewa.  With that said, I can't imagine why this isn't the greatest thing ever.  Ever hear the words "I'm bored!"  Not an issue with this set...instant ping pong, er table tennis, anytime, anywhere.  Not as high quality as the Chippewa tables, but not bad in a pinch.  (It's worth adding that I've assumed that your nice china or Waterford crystal is well stashed and has been for many years.)

That's it for Middle Camp.  Next up?  Just like unwrapping gifts, it's a surprise!

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Sailors' Secret Revealed

If you've been on the Apostle Island Sail trip, you know one of camp's best kept secrets.  Yes, the Canadians are exceptional trips, but every once and while, a diversion might be good.  In this case, it's aboard a 30 foot sloop or 40 foot cat.

Now, Yahoo Travel has posted one of the secrets. It's one of their top 10 "secret" islands to explore.

Take a look, then make sure to sneak away to the Apostles in the next year or two!


Wednesday, November 23, 2011

A Thanksgiving Recipe

I'm going to assume everyone has the turkey and stuffing handled.  However, if you're looking for an outstanding "comfort food" kind of dessert, check out the Apple Crisp from Mary and Ada's Cookbook (and yes we have a few remaining copies if you'd like to buy one.  Just email me!)

Apple Crisp
12 apples sliced and placed in 12"x14" pan
Sprinkle apples with 3/4 cup of sugar

Crumbs to put on top of apples
2 cups flour
2 cups oatmeal
2 cups brown sugar
1/2 cup melted margarine or butter
1 tsp cinnamon

Bake at 350 degrees for 50 minutes or until done.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Chippewa Wanderings

It struck me on the flight back from NYC how remarkable it is that the Chippewa family, begun more than 76 years ago with just five boys from Tulsa, now represents countless US cities and more than 15 countries.  Certainly it hit me like a brick wall when I landed in Beijing earlier this month (thanks to Calvin W. and his family!) that the world is truly shrinking.  Just this week, I mailed three brochure to St. Petersburg, Russia.  Our one camper from Moscow a few years ago may have been just a hint of what's to come.

For three decades now, Mexican families have been trekking north to Chippewa.  JP visited Mexico City not too many years ago.  Now, even the small island state of Martinique is home to a Chippewa camper.  Simply Amazing!  Most remarkable is how relevant the Chippewa experience is across cultures.  Bring boys to Cass Lake, remove technology and immerse them in an adventurous and rewarding wilderness experience, and what remains are boys who grow together.

To of our many international campers, staff and alumni, thanks for making the journey and for widening the reach of our unique camping philosophy. In honor, I attach a photo from 1981 of Ricky G., our first Mexican camper with his very first fish caught in Lake Windigo.  (Turns out, his first summer was my first summer.  And yes, we were cabinmates in Bunkhouse Cabin.  Howdy Ricky!)


Wednesday, November 09, 2011

The Chippewa Train arrives in London - briefly.

Last month a brief, but fun, unofficial Chippewa rendezvous hit the shores of our Island Nation.

Long-time Chippewa Alum, Charles B (1990's) stopped off on his way from doing business somewhere in Europe for a couple of nights of fun in London - meeting up with Roger C (1990's), Jim F (2000's) and me (2000's).

As with all good Chippewans, the theme of the weekend had to be sport and competition - Friday night saw us in Central London for a spot of cricket - always a fun sight to see England winning, even more fun when trying to explain the rules of cricket to a foreign guest - apparently several 'ground rule doubles' were scored? We even managed an appearance on live TV.

Saturday brought more sports - following a morning of rugby (another England win), we headed to north London for a football match (ok, ok, soccer match) courtesy of Roger C.

So wherever you are in the world, have a look, you might find a Chippewa Alum or two

Submitted by SJT

Monday, October 31, 2011

Raffle Winners Announced!



Congrats to the Winners!

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Camp Counselor or Internship?

An interesting post on USA Today over the summer argues that working at camp is more valuable than becoming an intern, especially if you are looking for professional skills.  I have to say that many of his points are right on the money, in particular his summary :


"Working at {camp} has taught me perhaps the most important skill for any job: grit."


Is grit a key component as a counselor?  Read his thoughts. Then come work at camp!







Friday, October 21, 2011

Chippewa Surfs in LA

We had a blast surfing last weekend in Manhattan Beach with the LA campers.  Thanks to the Brysons for hosting and to Teddy M. for joining us!






Saturday, October 15, 2011

Raffle Deadline is Today

Don't forget to enroll by midnight tonight for your chance to win big!  You'll be entered into our Halloween raffle for a free session of camp.  See my other post for all of the details, including five other pirzes.

Enroll now and your name will be entered!

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Research and the NFL

A couple of years ago, I wrote a short reaction to NFL Play 60 campaign.  Now, some researchers are actually studying the impact camps can have on a sedentary lifestyle for children.  A summary of the research paper suggests that camp is (as we already know intuitively as camp families) 'an antidote to the summer sedentary behaviors of young people'.

Now that my Detroit Lions may actually have a team, I see more and more of the Play 60 campaign ads.  Now get out there and play....then come to camp for some 24/7 sloth-busting!

Thursday, October 06, 2011

Chippewa Hits the Road

Dates for our 2011-2012 Rendezvous events are already being set, including surfing in Los Angeles next weekend.  Sam and I are excited to see as many camper families as we can, so if you'd like to host a fun event in your town, let us know!  We'll bring along one or two of your favorite counselors to join the fun as well!

In the meantime, take a look at our current plans and check back as the fall and winter months unfold.

PS- We'll have tons of cool Chippewa stuff to give away to everyone who joins us.  Plus check out the new t-shirts for anyone who brings a friend to the event.  Just introduce a new friend to Chippewa and you can snag your choice of one of these sweet shirts.



Does Sasquatch wander the woods at camp?

Friday, September 30, 2011

First Deadline for Raffle is Today!

The first deadline for our October 31st raffle is today.  Remember, by enrolling by September 30th, your name will be entered twice for the raffle.  A free session of camp is up for grabs, along with five other prizes and a special limited edition early enrollment t-shirt!

The final deadline to enter the raffle is October 15th, so you still have time.  But why not double your chances!  Enroll today!

More details about the raffle are on our earlier post.....

Thursday, September 29, 2011

"The Meaning of Summer Camp"

Just in case you missed this Time magazine article a while back, I thought I would post it for you.  It provides a wonderful perspective for parents who are considering sending their son (or daughter) to camp.  A few excerpts to tempt you:

"So I wasn't looking for some fancy culinary camp or robotics camp or whatever is fashionable now, just for someplace that teaches the appropriate interactions of sticks, weenies and flame."

"This defies what I suspect is now the whole point of sleepaway camp: if 19th century campers were meant to retrieve lost survival skills--trapping, fishing, gunnery--21st century campers need to work on their social skills......For kids who are allowed to text during dinner, who have their parents on speed dial for whenever they get in trouble or need a ride, who communicate using more acronyms than a four-star general, a little autonomy is probably long overdue"

And maybe my favorite:

"Maybe it wouldn't be bad to practice distance, not just physical but psychological; let our kids take a walk alone in the woods, maybe do the same ourselves, and relish the fresh conversations we'll get to have when we are together again come summer's end."

Take a look!

Monday, September 26, 2011

Even More Photos from 2011

I posted just about 1000 more photos from summer 2011.  Among them are some great pics from the North Knife and Gammon Rivers.  Some unbelievable photos from both those trips make me eager to get back out on the trail.

Check them out on the Camp Chippewa SmugMug site.


Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Win Big by Enrolling Now!

Our big drawing for a free four-week session is underway.  To be entered, just enroll by October 15th and your name will be included in our annual Halloween drawing.  Don't forget, you can double your chances if you enter by the end of September...two entries for each enrollment!  Plus, even more prizes are possible, including a camp store credit or tuition credit.  Michael has all of the details if you haven't received the special email or mailing.

And....everyone who enrolls by October 15th will receive this sweet special edition Chippewa t-shirt, only available for those who join camp by the October 15th deadline.  Don't wait!  Enroll now!!!


Friday, September 16, 2011

Summer 2011 Photos Posted

It was a spectacular summer and some spectacular photos share the story.  We have just posted more than 2000 photos from the summer with more on the way in just a few days.  What a year!

Check them out on the Camp Chippewa SmugMug site. You can order copies, have pics printed on coffee mugs or t-shirts or just download your favorites. Have some fun by clicking through the galleries.


Special thanks for Craig Slutz, Sam Devine and a few campers who helped capture the summer with their lenses.

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Dates for Summer 2012 Set

It's time to think summer 2012!  I'm already excited for next year, so make plans now to join us.  It's a summer of true adventure!

Check out the dates now!


Monday, September 12, 2011

New Brochure Released


Over the summer, the new Chippewa brochure arrived at camp.  Now it's headed your way.  We are excited to announce that the new Chippewa brochure is on its way, so check your mailbox soon.  It's awesome!

Friday, August 19, 2011

Chippewa Bees Grab First Place


For the second year in a row, CJ's Chippewa honey took first place at the Beltrami County Fair. Congrats to CJ and his many busy bees who make their home just down Cap Endres Road. Will it be a three-peat in 2012?

Friday, August 12, 2011

Every Ending......

....is a new beginning. But for now, we say goodbye to summer 76! Wow, what a year!

Safe travels home, campers and staff, and we'll look for you in 2012 when it begins again!

Tuesday, August 09, 2011

Friday, August 05, 2011

Camp Chippewa Is The Place To Be

This is camper Tommy R. writing from the camp office. This year at Camp Chippewa has been great. I haven't done every activity here at camp but I really look forward to them. My favorite activity here at camp has got to be sailing. The sailing instructors are really nice and they're really experienced and its so fun learning about parts of the boat and knots and learning how to sail the boat. A close second would have to be Riflery. Learning how to shoot the rifle, hold it, and safely operate it. For those who not know the cook, Mary, sorry Moms but you have to move out of the way. Mary mastered the culinary arts just as Cap Endres mastered the perfect camp. There's the best cookies in the world made here and best food. And to the kids that are coming you're gonna love this place. I was a bit touchy about coming here for four weeks for my second year but I am glad I did. Last year I stayed for two weeks and trust me, I made a bad decision for not staying here two more. There's all sorts of activities to do from fencing to water skiing, from riflery to archery and way more. And you're gonna love the staff, Mike Thompson, the Director of camp, is awesome. Anyways, I'm already excited for next year. Don't choose language camp, or archery camp, or anything else because Camp Chippewa is the place to be.

submitted by Tommy R., camper in Olson Cabin


Thursday, August 04, 2011

Tuesday, August 02, 2011

Another Session Update...

The weather is fine, and the wind is blowing. Yet another perfect day on the shores of Cass Lake. Over the last few days we couldn't have asked for better camp weather. The sailors were happy with their breeze, the canoeists were delighted with a few waves to negotiate, and the swimmers were glad of a slightly warmer Buck Lake.

The last few days have seen the departure of several trips to destinations throughout the North Woods - just this morning we waved off Olson Cabin who were heading to the Crow Wing River, and Eagle's Nest - destination Canada and the Quetico.

With all these trips heading out, camp is much smaller (but not necessarily quieter), though a smaller camp is an opportunity not to be missed. A bright, warm Super Sunday was the perfect excuse for the whole camp to relocate to Cedar Island for the afternoon, spending several hours swimming on the sandbar and exploring the dropoff.

Today there is a new challenge ahead. The boys will be competing in Camp Chippewa's own version of the 'Amazing Race', and I am sure there will be some intense competition to be the first team to solve the puzzles and unlock the prize.

That's the news for now.


Chippewa update submitted by Simon T.

Scenes from Second Session







The crew from "Battle of Cass Lake"
Posted by Picasa

Fishing Second Session







Posted by Picasa