Florida, the sunshine state, is a magical land where the sun always seems to be playing peek-a-oo with the cotton candy clouds. Imagine it as a gigantic sandcastle, where the ocean waves gently nip at its edges, while palm trees sway like enthusiastic cheerleaders. The air smells of salt, sunshine, and the sweetest citrus you can imagine. It's a place where kids can swap their sneakers for flip-flops and trade their snow coats for sunblock. Now, meet our main character - Captain Flapjack, a jolly, sunburnt pelican with a hat that's three times too big for his head. He's Florida's unofficial guide for all the kids who love to explore and have a taste for nature. He organizes expeditions for the bravest little adventurers, leading them through the lush Everglades, spotting the elusive Florida panther or observing the alligators, who often look like they're grinning. Captain Flapjack also arranges snorkeling tours so kids can meet the colorful residents of the coral reefs. He always has a funny story to share, like the time he accidentally used a starfish as a frisbee or when he mistook a manatee for a floating couch! But the best adventure, according to Captain Flapjack, is when the sun goes down, and the bioluminescent water glows under the star-filled sky. It's a sight that can tickle your imagination and make you laugh out loud with sheer delight. So, if you're a kid in Florida ready for a wild, weird, and wonderfully wet adventure, strap on your explorer's hat and join Captain Flapjack for a nature-filled escapade you'll never forget!
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The US Engineering League is a prominent nationwide establishment that passionately supports STEM-focused education. We believe in the power of experiential learning and thus emphasize hands-on learning through competitive challenges. Since our inception in 2018, we have been the proud USA National Office for the acclaimed World Robot Olympiad, a global robotics competition that has over 35,000 participants from more than 80 countries. In addition to robotics, our educational offerings span across various STEM sectors such as coding, eSports, engineering, science and more. We're delighted to be connected with several of the most prominent STEM competition organizations. Our primary learning center is nestled in the heart of Naperville, IL. However, we understand the importance of accessibility and have therefore expanded our reach. We offer our well-rounded programs at a range of locations including schools, community centers, park districts, libraries, and even religious institutions. We are committed to making our educational opportunities available to as many children as possible, regardless of their location. At the US Engineering League, we're not just about teaching; we're about inspiring. We take immense pride in our ability to inspire the younger generation to master the skills that are vital for long-term success in STEM-based careers. We strongly believe that nurturing these skills from a young age can set the foundation for a successful and rewarding career in the rapidly evolving STEM fields.
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a great place for families to spend an afternoon exploring the many wonders of the Everglades. The boardwalk trail is an easy, wheelchair accessible journey through the sanctuary, providing a safe and educational experience for children of all ages. Visitors can take advantage of the many interpretive signs and displays along the way, and the onsite Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary Visitor Center offers a wide range of educational materials and activities. The Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a unique natural area that's worth a visit for anyone interested in experiencing the beauty and diversity of Florida's ecosystems. With its unique boardwalk trail, a wonderful array of wildlife, and plenty of educational opportunities, the Sanctuary is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
The Friends of Rookery Bay is a nonprofit organization that fundraises and works to build up the community surrounding the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Through their efforts, the Friends of Rookery Bay helps to preserve this vital piece of Southwest Florida’s coastal environment for generations to come. The Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is a unique partnership between the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, and Florida International University. Located in Collier County, this 110,000 acre reserve is responsible for managing the wildlife and habitat in the area, encompassing 40 percent of the county’s coastline. The Reserve focuses on research, education, and conservation, while the Friends of Rookery Bay works to build the local community and raise funds to support the Reserve’s efforts. Together, the two organizations are committed to ensuring the protection of Southwest Florida’s precious coastal environment for years to come.