In the sun-dappled southern state of Georgia, where peaches are sweeter than candy and rivers flow with a honey-like laziness, there's a bustling community of kids who have found a passion for woodworking. These aren't your ordinary, everyday children, mind you. Let me introduce you to the fabulous, the amazing, the hilariously clumsy, Sir Chips-a-Lot. Though his name may inspire images of potato chips, Sir Chips-a-Lot is all about the wood chips! This whimsical character, with his oversized hard hat permanently skewed to one side, and a belt full of tools that jingle like Christmas bells, is the imaginary mentor of these lively Georgia kids. Each day, after their schoolwork and chores, and having said "goodnight" to their pet alligators (a common Georgia household pet, of course), they huddle around their workbenches, hammer in hand, Sir Chips-a-Lot guiding them in spirit. Make no mistake, these aren't your run-of-the-mill birdhouse builders. Oh no, these kids are crafting exceptional masterpieces, from majestic dollhouses that could comfortably house a family of squirrels, to whimsical treehouse designs that would make even the most adventurous of elves envious. Every now and again, Sir Chips-a-Lot would purportedly stumble over a nonexistent log, sending a cascade of wood chips raining down in every direction. The kids would laugh, their faces aglow with delight and sawdust, finding joy not just in the process of creating, but also in the shared camaraderie of this unique craft. So, in the heart of Georgia, with the fragrance of pine and a hint of peach in the air, this extraordinary troupe of young woodworkers, under the delightful (and slightly bumbling) guidance of Sir Chips-a-Lot, continue to create, explore, and inspire.
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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.
Since 2006, the Smyrna/Vinings arts community has been blessed with a wonderful resource: our Art Camp program. Our program offers a safe, nurturing environment for children to explore their artistic talents, all at an affordable price! Every instructor is college-educated and has the experience and credentials to ensure your child is learning the fundamentals of art in an effective way. The Art Camp program is tailored to the age of the child, with specific groups for ages 6-8, 8-10, and 10-14. By separating the ages, our instructors can better focus on the needs of each individual student and help them develop their artistic expression. In addition, the students will be taught different art styles to help broaden their knowledge and experience.