Camp Chippewa is special for more reasons than one can describe in a few paragraphs. In the shortest form, camp’s mission is focused around adventure, tradition, and character. They sum up camp beautifully. But I often feel a vital aspect is missing from that phrase.

Adventure is found in every paddle stroke, every campfire, every morning dip, every arrow that finds its mark.

Tradition flows from morning table grace songs to coveted tams earned, to Taps played each evening before lights out. Character is built with each word of encouragement, each challenge met, and each example of leadership from Chippewa counselors.

It is my belief that another word belongs in the pantheon of adventure, tradition, and character. That word is family.

I have been fortunate enough to spend 28 summers on the north shore of Cass Lake. In that time, I have watched returning campers grow into men, return as counselors, and have become friends with many of them. Each one has their own story and serves as a touchstone for future Badgers.

Every single one of us in the Chippewa family is a touchstone to another branch in the family tree. We are each at the center of our own six degrees of Camp Chippewa. All connected to one another through the years.

For those who knew Jerry Graham, we all fondly recall adventures on Hook Island and his famous Fish-a-la-Shoshone and bluecherry pie. And while future generations of campers will never meet Jerry, those generational connections are sustained in the stories we pass on to them.

Dorian is a current camper in his fourth summer at camp. During his first year in Badger Cabin, with me being the oldest of three “Marios” on staff, Dorian walked up to me as boys were filing out of Knutson Hall after lunch one day. He stared at me amidst the chaos, eyes level with mine as I remained seated, gave me a quintessential Dorian cock of his head, leaned in, gave me a hug, and said, “I love you, great-grandpa Mario.” The simultaneous hilarity and endearment were palpable. I was torn between gut-wrenching laughter and tears! I simply hugged him back and said, “I love you too, buddy.”

I fully embraced the moniker Dorian gave me because it carried with it the responsibility to fulfill that role for him.

To be his family here at camp.

To be part of his Chippewa family for the rest of his life.

Dorian will not remember Jerry, but he will hear the tales of Hook Island adventures. He will know the stories of Fish-a-la-Shoshone and bluecherry pie feasts. And one day, Dorian will tell his own story to a young Badger, serving as his own touchstone in the Camp Chippewa family tree.

The bonds that form on the shores of Cass Lake bless us with a family few can imagine.

When I give my summer highlight, I always tell the boys to appreciate every moment at Camp Chippewa. It is a special place that teaches them to face obstacles and triumph. And if they fail, it teaches them to get up, dust themselves off, and try again. It teaches them new skills that help them grow and develop into men of character. Few things could be more important in today’s world. But camp also offers all of us the opportunity to forge lifelong friendships that nourish and extend the Chippewa family tree through the generations.

Chip Chip,

Mario Sgro