In the bustling, bright city of New York, amid towering skyscrapers, honking taxis, and hot dog vendors, a unique group of kids gather every day to engage in a battle of wits and strategy. They are the Chess Cheetahs of NY, a rambunctious but brilliant group of kids who have turned the city’s parks and playgrounds into their strategic battlegrounds. The leader of this pack is none other than Charlie Cheetah, a glasses-wearing, freckle-faced, twelve-year-old, who is as swift as a cheetah when it comes to his chess moves. While he might not be able to outrun a bus, give him a chessboard and he'll become the Usain Bolt of bishops and the Flash of pawns! Charlie's gang includes Sally ‘the Squirrel’, known for her ability to stash away pieces like acorns and Ricky ‘Rhino’, who charges the board with the strength of a rook. Then there's Mia ‘Monkey’, who loves to swing her queen across the board with agile, unpredictable moves. Much like their animal namesakes, these young chess enthusiasts embrace the chessboard with a ferocious energy and curiosity. This isn't your average club, oh no! This group of kids brings the game of chess to life with laughter, creative strategies, and an endless supply of bagels and pretzels. With each checkmate, they prove that in the great city of New York, even the pigeons might be plotting their next chess move. So, if you happen to walk through a park in NY and see a bunch of kids huddled over a chessboard, don't be fooled by their size. These are the Chess Cheetahs, ready to conquer the concrete jungle, one chess move at a time.
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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.
Camp Hilltop has been a part of the Hancock, New York community since 1924. This beautiful camp is situated on 600 acres of woodlands and fields, with a private lake, in the picturesque Catskill Mountains, just two and a half hours from New York City. This summer camp offers a variety of activities, including water skiing, wakeboarding, trapeze, hiking, horses, climbing tower, high ropes, and many sports, performing arts and arts and crafts. We strive to provide a safe, nurturing and non-competitive environment, with a four to one camper to counselor ratio, overseen by a mature, skilled and caring staff. Camp Hilltop is more than just a summer camp; it’s a place where children and young adults can find a friendly and fun community and explore the wondrous possibilities in their lives. Whether it be for two weeks or eight, we provide a safe and supportive environment that encourages campers to develop their skills, build relationships, and grow in confidence.