In the sun-kissed, golden state of California, where surfing sea lions high-five sea-bathing starfish, a group of unordinary kids engage in a special kind of activity - Fencing! Yes, not the type that surrounds your backyard, but the one with masks, jackets, and swords! These are the brave youngsters of ‘En Garde California!’ In this fantastical land where tacos grow on trees and palm trees sway to the rhythm of the Pacific breeze, these kids are learning the ancient art of dueling, just like musketeers from old storybooks. Among them is our hero, Sir Broccoli Bruce, a 12-year-old with curly hair as wild as a lion's mane and a spirit brighter than the Hollywood sign at night. Bruce is not named after the green vegetable he adores but because of his unique ability to turn his opponents green with envy with his fencing skills. Every day, armed with his sword of silver lightning, Bruce and his band of merry fencers prance, lunge, and parry. They look like a bunch of crayons come alive, dancing a ballet in their various colored protective gear. Their giggles echo across the state, from the sunbathing seals in San Diego to the chatty seagulls in San Francisco. California might be known for its cool surfers, glamorous movie stars, and tech-savvy wizards. Still, nothing beats the excitement of watching Sir Broccoli Bruce and his fencing chums charging about, their swords gleaming in the Californian sun. They are the shining knights of the West Coast, and they're here to show that the state is more than just sunshine and Hollywood; it's a place where imagination and courage create extraordinary adventurers.
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Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.
Encinitas Fencing Academy is proud to offer a dynamic approach to the sport of fencing. We have a dedicated facility for people of all ages from 9 to 70 and beyond to come together to learn the art of fencing. Our coaches have decades of experience fencing and teaching, and have helped many of our younger students go on to fence for college teams such as UC San Diego and Columbia University. At Encinitas Fencing Academy, we strive to create a community of individuals who learn and grow through the sport of fencing. Our coaches, David "Lucky" Polakoski, Aaron Kandlik, and Bill Ostrie, are passionate about helping new students discover the joy of fencing. With a focus on Epee, our students have also competed in local, regional, national and international tournaments. At Encinitas Fencing Academy, we are passionate about providing a unique approach to fencing, with a focus on individual growth, learning, and making great friends. We have been in operation since 2007, and are thrilled to extend our program to new students. If you're looking to join a vibrant fencing community, Encinitas Fencing Academy is the place to be!