In the quirky, square-ish state of New Jersey, where the corn grows tall and the tomatoes blush a vibrant red, you'd find a bustling group of kids with sawdust in their hair and creativity in their hearts. These are the New Jersey Nibblers, the most celebrated gang of young woodworkers this side of the Mississippi. Now, you might be wondering, "Why are they called the Nibblers?" Well, it all started with their charismatic leader, a 12-year-old whiz kid named Chuck, who had an unusually large pair of chompers. One day, in a fit of impatience, Chuck literally nibbled a piece of wood into a perfect rectangle through sheer desperation when his saw broke. And just like that, the New Jersey Nibblers were born! These Nibblers are no ordinary kids. They carve, chisel, and nibble their way through planks, creating masterpieces that would make any carpenter green with envy. From birdhouses that could house flamingos to rocking horses that could rock themselves, no project is too big or too small for these New Jersey Nibblers. If you happen to be in New Jersey and see a cloud of sawdust or hear the rhythmic sounds of hammers and saws, you're probably near the Nibblers' secret workshop. So grab your safety goggles, roll up your sleeves, and dive headfirst into the world of whimsical woodwork. But remember, if your saw ever breaks, you could always try a little nibbling!
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Dear Families, (currently our website is under construction) 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.
In the 70’s, in Southern California, while Bruce Hogan was in High School, he worked with his father building a boat in the family’s back yard. Bruce’s father also had a full woodshop in the family garage and while his father’s interest was as a hobbyist, Bruce fell in love with working wood. After High School, he attended a trade college in Los Angeles where he earned an associate degree in Cabinetmaking and Millwork. The program provided the foundation for his teaching career and advanced woodworking skills in both traditional and contemporary furniture design. Upon graduating, Bruce apprenticed with a local boat builder. Here he would further develop his knowledge and woodworking skills. He built wooden boats including trimarans, cold molded steam launches, strip- planked boats and even lapstrake boats. Simultaneously, Bruce integrated these specialized skills into his cabinetmaking and furniture design.