Deep in the heart of the good ol' state of North Carolina, where the sweet tea flows like water, the barbecue is a religion, and the majestic Appalachian Mountains give a charming high-five to the azure sky, a group of sprightly young lads and lasses are stirring up a storm. This storm, my dear friends, isn't your everyday North Carolina hurricane. No, siree! It's a mighty whirlwind of power serves, smashing returns, and superhuman leaps. Meet the volleyball vanguard of North Carolina's youth. They may range from the size of a pint-sized pickle to a towering totem pole, but don't be fooled. These kids could give professional volleyball players a run for their money. They spike the ball with the ferocity of a hungry lion pouncing on a steak, and their agile moves could make a cheetah sob with jealousy. Among these volleyball virtuosos is an extraordinary character, known far and wide as "Tumbleweed Ted". Now, Ted isn't your regular kid. With a shock of fiery red hair that resembles a tumbleweed in the summer, freckles that could give the night sky a complex, and an infectious grin that could outshine the sun, Ted is a sight to behold. But what truly sets him apart is his uncanny knack of somersaulting across the court to save the ball, earning him his quirky name. Tumbleweed Ted and his volleyball crew are the superheroes of North Carolina, turning the volleyball courts into their personal playground. With a volley here and a spike there, these kids prove that North Carolina isn't just about serene beaches and mouth-watering hush puppies. It's also about spirited kids who serve up some serious volleyball action.
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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.
Durham Parks and Recreation (DPR) provides opportunities for the Durham community to get active and connect with each other. DPR’s mission is to support the City’s Strategic Plan by helping residents get outside and explore the outdoors, stay healthy, and learn new skills for a lifetime. With creative and challenging recreational activities, DPR is dedicated to helping residents stay physically, mentally, and socially healthy. From outdoor activities to sports to fitness classes, Durham Parks and Recreation (DPR) has something for everyone. DPR works to promote wellness, the outdoors, and lifelong learning for the Durham community. With a variety of recreational activities to choose from, DPR strives to give residents the opportunity to stay physically fit, mentally alert, and socially engaged. By connecting our whole community to wellness, the outdoors, and learning, DPR strives to make a positive impact on our city.