The Great Lakes State, Michigan, twinkled like a gigantic blue and green jigsaw puzzle, kissed by the sun on the American map. It was a place where kids had porridge-like cereal for breakfast, friendly snowmen for friends during winters, and the most magical music activities all year round! Picture it like this, you know how in cartoons, there's always that one cool character who bursts into a song now and then? Well, imagine a state full of those characters. Meet Jazzy Jaxon, Michigan's very own maestro. Jaxon was a whiz-kid with a head full of glossy dark hair that bounced when he bopped to the beat. His glasses sat low on his nose as he poured over sheet music, always dusted with powdered doughnut sugar. He was just about as tall as a bassoon, not much more than a pack of licorice and was the grand conductor of the Michigan Miniature Orchestra, a group of the coolest, quirkiest little musicians you could ever meet. Every Saturday, the kids gathered in the cozy, jumbled music room at the back of Mrs. Applebee's Candy Store. With violins, trumpets, flutes, drums, and even a tuba, they produced harmonies so delightful it made the gummy bears in the store dance. Oliver, the toothless trombone player, would slide into a beautiful solo that sounded like a hippopotamus singing opera! Whether it was the middle of a snowy January or a sun-splashed July, the kids in Michigan were always ready to fill their magical state with music that could make even a grumpy garden gnome tap his foot. The state of Michigan was not just filled with beautiful lakes and delicious cherries, it was filled with the sweetest melodies.
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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.
At the Caledonia Dance & Music Center, parents can give their child the opportunity to explore the wonderful world of dance and music. Our classes for students as young as 12 months introduce your little one to the art of dance and the opportunity to learn from passionate teachers and musicians. We offer a wide range of classes for all ages and abilities, from tap, ballet, jazz, lyrical, hip hop, musical theater, pointe, and more. Our music lessons provide another way to introduce your child to the world of music. We offer private and group music lessons in voice, piano, guitar, and string instruments taught by university-trained teachers. Our teachers are dedicated to helping children learn valuable life skills as well as techniques and history. With our comprehensive classes and lessons, your child can enjoy music and dance for a lifetime.