Alumni Spotlight- October 2014

Each month, we will do an Alumni Spotlight to highlight one of our incredible Chippy alum. We are very excited about this and hope that this monthly Chip Chat article reconnects old friends, reminds you of a good camp memory and demonstrates that the magic of Chippewa is timeless.

Tracey Michaels is our featured alum in October and below are her responses. We thank Tracey for taking the time to share with us her memories and also, these amazing photos!

What years were you at CRC?
I started in 1981 and my last summer officially was 1993. There were also a couple of bonus summers of about 2-3 week stays! Colt Village to Assistant Director :).

Which summer was your favorite and why?
My favorite summer at camp was 1984. I was in Trailriders and we had so much fun. It was the first summer that our entire age group merged into one cabin. We all got along great and had a ton of fun together.

What is your favorite camp memory?
I have so many favorite camp memories that it’s hard to write just one! I always loved the Chippewa Sailing Regatta (participating in and then running it as a counselor), getting my Instructor’s Aid (it was so cool to get your sweatshirt at final banquet), and my many Mackinac trips (as a camper and counselor of Trailriders). Trailriders ‘89 Mackinac Island trip even made it in Thomas C. Adler’s book.

What was your favorite activity at camp?
My favorite two activities were sailing and horseback riding.

Were you a Tan or White?
I was a WHITE! We’ve got the might!!!

How do you keep in touch with your camp friends?
I keep in touch with my camp friends by phone, email, Facebook, dinners, vacation visits, and Family Camp! Many of my closest friends are my camp friends still to this day. I have remained close with many of my counselors, my cabin mates, and my campers.

Where do you live now and what do you do?
I live in Chicago and sell promotional products.

What do you miss most about camp?
I miss the overall feeling of Chippewa. It is truly the greatest place on earth. It is where I am most relaxed, comfortable, and totally myself. I feel so lucky to have had so many wonderful experiences there and am SO grateful that I have been able to experience it at Family Camp for a full week these past few years!

Is there anything else you want to share with your Chippy family?
I have the best time connecting with my friends’ kids and their Chippy friends. There’s always a bond no matter the generation! The words of the Chippewa Creed always stay with me and remain true.