In the splendid, corn-covered state of Illinois, where skyscrapers mix with towering oaks and rivers flow with a lazy elegance, a league of extraordinary kids has made its mark. The Karate Kids of Illinois, they're known as! This isn't just any group of cotton-candy munching, video-game-playing youngsters. No siree! These are the Karate Kids - a force to be reckoned with! Now, picture this: a round, squishy, tomato-like character named Master Ketchup. He's an eccentric, exuberant, and somewhat clumsy martial arts master who's obsessed with his beloved tomato garden. He's constantly battling the mischievous squirrels attempting to feast on his red, juicy treasures. This quirky master has a knack for creating the most hilarious, flying, spinning karate moves you've ever seen. He serves as their coach, instructor, and most importantly, comic relief. The Karate Kids aren't just about high kicks, punches, and spins. They’re also great at the art of giggling – whether it's at Master Ketchup's silly tomato-themed moves, like the ‘Ripe Tomato Roundhouse’ or his uproarious attempts to protect his garden. Together they learn about discipline, respect, and bravery in an atmosphere filled with laughter, ketchup splatters and an occasional squirrel chase. Just imagine, each day, these karate-kicking kids pour in from all over the state - from the bustling, pizza-scented streets of Chicago to the quaint, tranquil towns along the Mississippi River. They're the prairie ninjas, the land of Lincoln's defenders, and above all, the admirers of the wacky, tomato-loving Master Ketchup. So, prepare yourself, Illinois, for the dawn of the Karate Kids era!
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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.
At Kensho, we offer Chicago Style Mixed Martial Arts, which includes training in Boxing, Kickboxing, Muay Thai, Savate, MMA, Kali Weapons, and JKD. We are located at the northwest corner of North Ave. and Kingsbury in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood. Our amazing team of highly experienced instructors offer a variety of classes to suit all skill levels. Our classes are designed to help you reach your highest potential and become the best version of yourself. Our experienced instructors will help you to develop physical and mental skills as well as self-discipline. We will also teach you the importance of respect, humility, and positivity. Through these teachings, you will gain a new sense of confidence and self-awareness. At Kensho, we believe that martial arts is more than just physical training, it is also a journey of self-discovery. We strive to create a safe and supportive environment for our students to explore the many benefits of martial arts, including increased physical fitness, improved mental clarity, and greater self-confidence. We are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and become a better version of yourself.
At TAC Karate & Fitness Inc., we offer Shorin-Ryu karate classes for children and adults of all ages and skill levels. Our classes focus on building self-defense, fitness, technique, strength and more! Our experienced instructors provide excellent guidance and support to ensure that each student gains the most out of each lesson. Our founder, owner, and Chief Instructor is Dr. Larry C. Tankson. Born in Chicago, Illinois in 1995, Dr. Tankson began his training at the Dravidian School of Self-Defence and Karate under the instruction of the late Mfunddishi Russ Meek. He received his first-degree black belt from Hanshi Shorty Mills in 1974, and has been teaching karate ever since. At TAC Karate & Fitness Inc., we provide a safe and supportive atmosphere for students to learn and grow. Our experienced instructors have decades of knowledge to help our students achieve their goals and hone their skills. We strive to help each student reach their full potential and become the best martial artist they can be.