North Carolina, also known as NC, is a magical place bursting with blue skies, lofty mountains, and sandy beaches; a place where the sun shines brighter, and the moon winks at you from afar. This enchanting place is home to some extraordinary kids, especially those with a fondness for drawing and sketching. These kids are no ordinary doodlers. They are the brave knights and proud princesses of the Paper Kingdom, wielding their pencils and crayons like magic wands, conjuring up worlds beyond imagination. Among them is Skoochy, an eccentric and high-spirited squirrel with a knack for art. Skoochy, despite being a squirrel, is the Picasso of the Paper Kingdom. He doesn't draw with his hands, oh no! That would be way too normal. Instead, Skoochy holds his magical crayons with his tail, twirling it around like a maestro conducting an orchestra! He sketches during the day, under the shade of the towering lighthouse at Cape Hatteras, and by night, under the twinkling constellation of Ursa Major. His sketches are as lively as the bustling city of Charlotte and as serene as the calm waters of Lake Norman. He brings to life the enchanting Appalachian Mountains and paints the vibrant hues of the Great Smoky Mountains during sunset. The kids of NC are just as brilliant and bold as Skoochy. They breathe life into the mundane, creating masterpieces out of thin air. They draw pictures that could tickle your funny bone or bring a tear to your eye. With a dash of NC charm and a sprinkle of their imagination, they create art so mesmerizing, even Skoochy would give a tip of his acorn hat to them!
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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.
Parents of elementary school-aged children can now take advantage of a unique track out experience with The Art of STEM. This program, which is developed and run by educators, helps foster socialization and creative thinking in children through stimulating activities that introduce basic concepts of S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). The Art of STEM utilizes visual and performing arts activities to bring S.T.E.M. concepts to life in a fun and engaging way. Each week, children can practice and perform a short skit as part of reader's theater or a dance, all while building their reading fluency and confidence. Simple costumes and character building further enhance the experience. The Art of STEM is an exceptional way for children to gain a better understanding of S.T.E.M. concepts while also developing key skills in a fun and creative setting. Parents can be assured that children will come away with a better understanding of S.T.E.M. and improved socialization, creative thinking, reading fluency and confidence.
At Board & Brush Creative Studio, our mission is to help you become a creative do-it-yourselfer. We'll show you how to work with natural materials - wood, knots, colors and the small imperfections that make every project unique. We'll help you understand the art of distressing, sanding and staining techniques to give your wood sign a vintage heirloom look. We understand that understanding and appreciating the beauty of raw materials is a key part of creating custom wood signs and other projects. Our team of professional instructors will guide you through each step, teaching you the basics of turning your vision into a beautiful, lasting piece. At Board & Brush Creative Studio, we’re dedicated to helping you unlock your inner DIY master. We will show you how to work with wood, knots, and colors to create a one-of-a-kind project that looks like a treasured heirloom. Our instructors will provide expert guidance, teaching you the techniques of distressing, sanding, and staining to make your project stand out. With our help, you can create something truly unique that will last for years.
At Wine & Design, we believe that everyone has an inner artist just waiting to come out and play! Take a night off from the hustle and bustle of everyday life to relax and enjoy creating something beautiful. Our paint-and-sip classes are led by local artists who will guide you step-by-step through the process of creating a unique masterpiece. Bring your favorite bottle of wine and snacks and get ready to paint the night away! Whether you’re looking for a fun girl’s night out, a private party, or a corporate event, Wine & Design has something for everyone. Our classes are perfect for birthday celebrations, wedding/engagement showers, kids’ events, and any other special occasion. We provide all the materials you’ll need and our experienced local artists will show you how to bring your vision to life. With us, you can enjoy a night of creativity and fun while celebrating your inner Picasso! At Wine & Design, we strive to create an environment where everyone is comfortable, relaxed, and can express their creativity. Our classes are designed to be enjoyable for all levels of painters, from novices to experienced artists. You’ll get to leave with a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that you can proudly hang in your home or office. So, grab your favorite bottle of wine and snacks, and give yourself permission to relax and have fun!