The Sari Diaries- Thursday 7/23/26

Dearest Chippies,

Greetings from County O! It’s been another magnificent day here at Chippewa—the sun was shining bright, Realm excitement is officially in the air, and campers and counselors alike are making the most of being at their summer home. There’s lots to update on today, so I’m going to get right to it… buckle up!

The day started with a very exciting morning announcement that began with the world-famous Realm soundtrack and finished with a birthday wakeup for FOUR very special Chippies: Maya F (Rafter), Josie K (Silverspurs), Maddie J (Bowed Legs) and Delia R (Bowed Legs). After a delicious breakfast of egg sandwiches and a cabin clean-up that led to both Horseshoe AND C-C receiving 100s, the whole camp gathered around the Center Fire Circle for the announcement of Kahuna Day captains. What is Kahuna Day? I’m so glad you asked! Kahuna Day is one of the most spirited days of the summer. The entire camp is split into four teams that compete against one another in a day-long series of competitions. Each team is led by a Colt Village and Wrangler Village captain who are nominated by their counselors due to their love of Chippewa, enthusiastic participation in camp programming, initiative and leadership potential. This year’s Colt Village captains are Ava F (Copper Stripes), Joyelle H (Boots), Sienna K (Cactus) and Shay S (Boots), and the Wrangler Village captains are Zoe C, Maya G, Brooke R and Sadie S (all of Lakeview). Thanks to the leadership from these eight incredible Chippies, Kahuna Day 2026 is sure to be a fantastic day!

After the Captain announcements, we had a full regular day of B DAY ACTIVITIES! During first period, Jenna W, Sammi S and Sadie S (all from Lakeview) were hard at work perfecting their Guitar skills as they practiced Night Changes with focus, determination and true talent. At Skiing, we had several achievements, including Sloane K (Wagon Ridge), Inez B (Cactus) got up on two skis and around the lake, and Julia F (Trailriders) and Sydney S (Horseshoe) dropped a ski. Chocolate crinkle cookies were baked at Cooking, Realm School began during Swimming, and LOTS of fish were caught at fishing. It was an exciting day all across CRC and kids were having a blast!

The cherry on top of this incredible day was one of the biggest Tan and White games of the summer: Songfest. Songfest is one of Chippewa’s longest standing Tan and White traditions, and tonight, after a great deal of planning, creativity, teamwork and dedication, Tan School Musical and Olympic Whites ascended Sophie’s Center Stage to give the performances of a lifetime. For the past several weeks, Alexa R and Emma S of the White Team and Laney K and Summer S of the Tan Team (with the help of the rest of the CITs and Lakeview) poured countless hours into readying skits, songs, murals and medallions. Preparing for Songfest requires a significant commitment of time, effort and cooperation. Tonight’s performances by both teams were incredible—but what was more impressive was the leadership and morale displayed by Alexa, Emma, Laney and Summer. The White team won the game of Songfest tonight, but I hope that both teams are holding their heads high after outstanding performances. Thank you to all Tans and Whites, but specifically Alexa, Emma, Laney and Summer, for your leadership and commitment to the tradition of Tan and White. Tonight’s performances were a reflection of your hard work, and your leadership will continue to shape young campers’ commitment to the Tan & White program for many summers to come.

And now, camp is quiet as campers are sleeping deep after a fun-filled day. Tomorrow is sure to be just as amazing… stay tuned to hear what we are up to then!

Talk to you next week!

Sincerely,
Soph Aloaf