Hidden between the bustling cities of New York and Philadelphia, the jigsaw puzzle-shaped state of New Jersey is home to an extraordinary crew of children, known as the "Book Buccaneers." Lead by their enchanting captain, a cool imaginary character named Jovial Jersey, the Book Buccaneers are famous for their love for reading. Jersey, with his flamboyantly tall hat and eyeglasses as large as pizza pies, is no ordinary captain. With a hearty laugh that sounds like a mix between a hiccup and a sneeze, he guides the kids through uncharted territories of imagination and knowledge, sailing on a ship made entirely of books! These swashbuckling, book-loving kids hail from the sandy beaches of Cape May to the towering cliffs of the Palisades. Their adventures take them through the Pine Barrens, where they read about mythical creatures under the whispering pines, and to the streets of Princeton, where they browse through stories in the university's ancient libraries. A diverse crew they are, with each Buccaneer passionate about a different genre. Some are cupcake-faced detectives who solve mysteries just by flipping pages, while others are pony-tailed princesses who dive into enchanting fairy tales. Yet, they all share the same thrilling love for words, pages, and the magic that springs from them. The Book Buccaneers can turn even the grumpiest of grown-ups into giggling bookworms with their infectious enthusiasm for reading. They live by Jovial Jersey's motto, "The more you read, the more you know. The more you know, the further we can sail!" So, if you ever visit the Garden State, keep an eye out for these book-loving pirates, they might just whisk you away on an unbelievable reading adventure!
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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.
The Emerson Public Library was founded by a small group of dedicated residents in 1957 as a private Library, charging one dollar per year dues. The size of the collection on opening day, November 1, 1958, was only 5,000 books. Initially, the Library was open ten hours a week and contributed to the quality of life for residents by hosting an annual art show, author talks and a yearly dinner dance. In 1962, the Library joined the Mid Bergen Federation of Public Libraries. This allowed residents to borrow books as well as framed paintings, sculpture replicas, and record players from nearby towns. Within the Federation, Emerson became known for its American Art books.