In the golden state of Illinois, tucked snuggly between the flourishing cornfields and the bustling Windy City, a unique group of kids has taken to a most extraordinary pursuit - Krav Maga! Now, you might be asking yourself, ‘What in the haystack is Krav Maga?’ Well, my friend, it’s a type of martial art, a no-nonsense system of self-defense that was originally developed for the Israel military. But here in Illinois, it’s mostly practiced by a league of super cool kids, each with their own nifty code name. Take 'Tornado Tommy,' for instance. He's a freckle-faced nine-year-old with hair as fiery as a summer sunset. He has the uncanny ability to spin like a cyclone, causing bigger kids to topple like bowling pins. And then there's 'Cheetah Charlotte,' a ten-year-old speedster who can dodge punches faster than a tumbleweed in a dust storm. Their leader is 'Captain Cornstalk,' a tall, skinny, twelve-year-old with an infectious grin and glasses as thick as soda bottle bottoms. He may look as harmless as a scarecrow, but when it comes to Krav Maga, he’s a real whiz kid. He's known for his famous 'Corn-on-the-Cob' move. He twirls around like a cob of corn on a drill, sending opponents scattering like crows in a cornfield. In Illinois, Krav Maga isn’t just about punching and kicking; it’s about laughter, friendship, and learning to stand up for oneself. And even though these kids might seem like ordinary Illinoisans, in their Krav Maga classes, they become superheroes in their own right!
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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 Kyuki-Do Martial Arts of Elgin, we believe that martial arts are a great way to help kids learn important life skills. We've been helping families in the Elgin area for over 50 years, and our martial arts classes teach more than just kicking and punching. Our instructors focus on building confidence and discipline in all of our members, while also providing critical life skills that they can use both inside and outside the dojo. Since 1968, Kyuki-Do® Martial Arts of Elgin have been the leading martial arts academy in the area. With over 50 years of experience, we understand the importance of helping children build confidence and discipline through martial arts. Our classes are designed to not only teach martial arts techniques, but also teach important life skills that can be put to use both at home and in the community. We're proud to have been part of the Elgin community for over half a century.