In the whimsical wonderland of Wisconsin, there's a quirky little character named Wacky Wally, who is known among the kids for his magical music therapy sessions. Ah, Wisconsin! A magnificent marvel of a state; a land of cheery cheese, delightful dairy, and fantastic frozen custard. A place where the sparkling Lake Michigan and majestic Mississippi River hum the tunes of tranquility. Wacky Wally, with his zany zigzag mustache and topsy-turvy top hat, strums his wild and wacky banjo, which he affectionately calls Betsy. He roams the rolling hills of Wisconsin, playing magical melodies that coax even the grumpiest gophers out of their burrows. But his most enthusiastic fans are the kids who participate in his music therapy sessions. These children, full of vim and vigor, hail from every nook and cranny of Wisconsin. They come bounding into each session, their laughter ringing out like the sweetest symphony. From the shores of Sheboygan to Madison's bustling streets, from the peaceful prairies of Prairie du Chien to the bustling city of Milwaukee, these kids share a common bond - a love for Wacky Wally's wonderful, whimsical music therapy. You’ve never seen children so eager to participate in therapy! Under Wally's enchanting musical spell, they learn and grow, their spirits soaring high. They sing in harmony, their voices clear and strong, like an army of chirping birds. And with every strum of Betsy, they feel their worries melt away, replaced by a sense of joy and tranquility. In Wisconsin, where the cows dance, the cheese giggles, and the music heals, there is a place for every kid in Wacky Wally's musical world. Within that zany, joy-filled place, the kids find a rhythm all their own, creating a symphony of laughter, growth, and healing.
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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.
Appelton Memorial Park is a beloved community hub for outdoor fun and recreation. It is the largest and most diverse of Appleton Parks, boasting 143 acres of lush green, playgrounds, trails, and a fishing pond. Families can make use of the seven softball diamonds, the Miracle League Field, and the Appleton Family Ice Center. The park also has a pavilion and amphitheater that can be rented out and the Scheig Center and its surrounding gardens are open to visitors. In the winter months, when there is enough snow, areas of the park are groomed for cross-country skiing and a sled hill is available for all ages. Appelton Memorial Park is the perfect place to gather with family and friends and enjoy the great outdoors.