Welcome to the dazzling, dramatic, and downright delightful world of California! Picture a state where the sun has a perpetual playdate with the Pacific, the trees stand tall as if strutting on stilts, and the bear on the flag gets up to all sorts of shenanigans when no one is looking. This is the land where magic leaps off the pages of scripts and lands on stages, and where kids are the stars of the show. Meet the California Drama Kids - an ebullient bunch of pint-sized performers whose infectious enthusiasm could outshine any Hollywood Walk of Fame star. Whether they're in Los Angeles, San Francisco, or somewhere in between, they all share one thing in common - a love for theater that's as deep as the Pacific Ocean itself. Now, let me introduce you to their whimsical mentor, Sir Applause-a-Lot. He sports a majestic mustache that could challenge any broomstick, a top hat with a personality of its own, and a pair of twinkling spectacles that seem to have an entire galaxy trapped inside them. He has a hearty laugh that sounds like a trumpet and a tiptoe that would put a cat burglar to shame. Sir Applause-a-Lot guides our brave actors through their lines, their moves, and their nerves, transforming them into whatever their hearts desire: gallant knights, crafty wizards, or even chattering squirrels. No matter how far-fetched or absurd, there's no limit to what they can become. Their performances are filled with giggles, gaffes, and grandeur that would make even the grumpiest of grizzly bears grin. So, if you ever spot a bunch of kids in California, gesticulating wildly and talking in funny accents, don't be surprised! They're just practicing to steal the spotlight on the stage, under the watchful, twinkling eyes of Sir Applause-a-Lot.
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Dear Families, (currently our website is under construction) 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.
Today, P.S. ARTS continues to work to make sure that all California public schools have access to equitable and sustainable arts education. Led by Dr. Paul Cummins and Herb Alpert in 1991, they recognized the need to address the issue of drastic funding cuts to public schools that had left children in poverty and from communities affected by systemic racism without access to arts programs. With the goal of making sure all children have access to arts education, P.S. ARTS is still working to make a difference.