In the magical mitten-shaped state of Michigan, a group of daring kids undertake one of the most whimsical adventures of all - glasswork! This isn't ordinary glasswork though, oh no, it’s a mystical world where the ordinary becomes extraordinary. Our main hero, a green-haired, four-eyed alien named Gogobob, leads the troops. He's from the planet Pizzazz, where everything is made of shimmering, swirling glass. When Gogobob first arrived in Michigan, he felt downright homesick. That's when he discovered the glass-blazing kids of Michigan, and boy, did his antenna wiggle with excitement! These kids, fortified with endless imagination and a dash of bravery, transform bland blobs of glass into magnificent masterpieces. It's a thrilling spectacle! They huddle in glass workshops, goggles secured and gloves on, looking like mini superheroes ready to save the day. The furnaces roar like fiery dragons, but these kids are no ordinary kids; they are dragon tamers! With Gogobob’s guidance, they mold and blow the molten mass into swirling galaxies of color and shape. Their laughter echoes through the workshops, bouncing off rainbow-hued glass sculptures that twinkle in the Michigan sunlight. Sometimes, the glass blobs pop and sizzle in protest, but the kids just giggle, their bravery unwavering. "Silence, you sizzling blob!" They'd say, "We're turning you into a unicorn!" Yes, in Michigan, a state famous for its serene lakes and cherries, a band of kids led by an alien named Gogobob are creating magic with glass. They are the fearless, funny, glass-blowing superheroes of the Midwest, adding color to the world one sizzling blob at a time.
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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.
REACH Studio Art Center is a vibrant non-profit community art center that provides a creative outlet for people of all ages and abilities. At their seven studios located in the REO Town district of Lansing, Michigan, they offer a variety of classes and workshops taught by local teaching artists. These classes and workshops are available at free and sliding-scale fees. The REACH Art Truck program brings the creative outlet to people around town. Through this program, they are able to bring the same classes and workshops that are available at the studios to people who may not be able to physically get to the studios. REACH Studio Art Center provides a safe and welcoming environment for people to explore the arts. Their mission is to provide a creative outlet to people of all ages and abilities. With the help of the local teaching artists, they are able to bring the creative outlet to those around town.