In the thrilling realm of New Jersey, where fire-breathing dragons camouflage themselves as smoke-spewing factories and mystical mermaids disguise themselves as surfers riding the Atlantic waves, an extraordinary group of children morph into mighty samurai warriors. They are not ordinary kids, oh no, they are Aikido kids! These mini martial artists, who may look just like your everyday Jack and Jill when they're busy with math equations and science projects, are secretly superheroes in training. At the Aikido dojo, they swap their school bags for kimonos and their pencils for wooden swords. And, you'll never believe who teaches them - Grand Master Snortimer, a giant, green, wobbly blob of a creature, with a belly that jiggles like a bowl of jello every time he laughs, which is almost always. Snortimer, a 5th degree black belt from the planet "Judo-nobo", has eyes that twinkle with mischief and a voice that thunders like a summer storm. With his three wavy arms, he can demonstrate Aikido moves that will make your eyes spin like a dizzy pigeon. He insists that Aikido is not about fighting, but about harmonizing with energy. It's about using an opponent's force against them, a bit like that time when you convinced your little brother to do your chores for a week. Balancing on one toe, rolling around like tumbleweeds, these New Jersey Aikido kids learn to be quick, kind, and brave. Be it dodging a mythical beast's fiery breath or standing up to a class bully, they're always ready, always fearless. So next time you see a kid from New Jersey, remember, they may just be a superhero in disguise!
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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.
Aikido Center of Manasquan is a traditional Aikido Dojo located at Manasqaun Recreation, St. Denis School (eastern end), 90 Union Ave. (rear), Manasquan, NJ 08736. At Aikido Center of Manasquan we teach traditional Aikido as handed down by the Founder of Aikido, affectionately known as O Sensei (Great Teacher). We hold to his inspired vision-emphasizing Aikido's philosophy and ethics while at the same time teaching Aikido's full range of capabilities from gentle persuasion to full street effectiveness. Stop in to visit us, watch a class or actually participate to learn the beauty and power of this unique martial art.