The state of New Jersey, affectionately known as the 'Garden State,' might be small, but don't let its size fool you! It's packed with more character than a superhero's utility belt. Stretching from Sandy Hook to Cape May, it's a place where you can catch a whiff of salty sea air and a whiff of fresh, countryside breeze - all in the same day! Now, let's delve into the mysterious world of fencing in this fantastic state. There's a unique group of kids who've traded their video game swords for actual epees, foils, and sabres, and they've become quite the swordplay prodigies. They are 'The Jersey Fencing Squad,' a band of fearless, fun-loving kids who swish and flick their swords with so much skill, you'd think they were born with them in their hands. At the helm of this adventurous group is their leader, Captain Zorro. No, not the Spanish outlaw but a twelve-year-old kid with wild curly hair, freckles, and a wicked sense of humor. He’s got a laugh that can shake the rafters and a heart as big as his foil. With a twinkle in his eye and his trusty fencing mask perched atop his head like a shiny steel crown, he leads his team to countless victories – and even more pizza parties! Each day, as they perfect their parries, ripostes, and lunges, they fill the fencing halls with a symphony of clashing swords and peals of laughter. So, every time you hear the words, "En garde! Prêt? Allez!" echoing across the vast New Jersey lands, know that the 'Jersey Fencing Squad' is having yet another epic practice session, led by their spirited Captain Zorro!
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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 Integrity Fencing Studio, our goal is to achieve success while maintaining our integrity. The spirit of our studio is driven not only by the medals our fencers win in competitions, but also by continuing the traditional values of fencing: courtesy, dignity, honor, and courage. We believe our members will deepen their inner character and achieve winning results through these values.