Once upon a time, in the dazzling state of Illinois, a group of wild and wacky kids found the most splashing fun in waterskiing. Illinois, you know, is a magical place where the rivers gently careen through lush forests, the city skyscrapers reach for the stars, and the cornfields sway like ocean waves in the heartland. A glorious state, where summer sunsets paint the sky with colors too beautiful for a crayon box. Now, these kids were not your average bunch. They were the Illinois Water Dragons, a gang of waterskiing whizzes! They were notorious for their epic splashes and dazzling trickery, with every flip and spin sparking a round of applause from the shimmering lake itself! Leading the gang was their fearless leader, a ten-year-old dynamo named "Ducky." Don't let the name fool you! Ducky was as fierce as a shark when it came to waterskiing. He was known for his signature move, the "Quack Flip," where he spun in the air like a duck doing cartwheels, and came down with a splash that sent fish flying for cover! Then there was "Flipper", the girl who could do a backflip while eating a sandwich, and "Barnacles," a kid so quick on his skis that he was often mistaken for a speedboat. Last but not least, was "Splash," the youngest of the gang, who, despite his small size, could create splashes that would soak anyone daring enough to watch from the shore. These kids and their waterskiing adventures were as integral to Illinois as deep-dish pizza or the Chicago Bears. They embodied the spirit of their state – wild, fun, and always ready for a good splash!
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Building Character with Martial Arts. The Black Belt Leadership Academy has a rich history that spans more than ten years, during which it has been pivotal in aiding students to sharpen their concentration, bolster their power, and enhance their self-assurance through exceptional martial arts instruction. Our branch in Wauwatosa is a welcoming space that respects and includes students of every kind, regardless of whether they're novices or seasoned martial artists. Each class that we provide is meticulously planned to challenge students at a personal level, while also creating a positive and rewarding ambiance. This individualized approach guarantees that all our students feel recognized and motivated, which leads to a more successful learning journey. At our academy, we're committed to fostering an environment that brings out the best in each student. Our classes aim to not merely impart martial arts techniques but also to instill qualities such as discipline, respect, and resilience. We are firm believers that the values learned at our academy extend beyond the training hall and will benefit our students in all their future pursuits.
Every summer, campers and staff from all around the globe, and from a variety of backgrounds, return to their own special home away from home. At our camp in Central Wisconsin, situated on an 80-acre lakefront compound, there’s never a shortage of activities and experiences for everyone to enjoy. From biking around Stratton Lake to water skiing, drama, rock climbing, and arts & crafts, our campers can stay busy for hours on end. At our camp, campers can explore, take on new challenges, and make lifelong friendships. Our campers and staff come from all walks of life, and every year they return to our camp to enjoy new experiences, make memories, and have the time of their lives. The beautiful lakefront facility in Central Wisconsin provides the perfect place for campers to explore, challenge themselves, and make lasting friendships.
In 2010, Dan and Andy bought and invested $1 million in construction and renovation of Camp Manitowa Rend Lake. Since then, the 40-acre property has been hosting sleep-away summer camps, retreats, and festivals. It is the newest, freshest camp in the Benton area of Southern Illinois, and is located only 90 minutes from St. Louis, MO and Paducah, KY. At Camp Manitowa, campers entering grades 2nd through 8th can benefit from a tailored 1 or 2 week residential camp program. This program is designed with younger campers’ needs in mind, and encourages the development of independence, self-esteem, cooperation, and problem-solving skills. Campers also have the opportunity to make lifelong friends in a small, nurturing community. The camp also offers structured free play and choice time, allowing campers to feel a sense of belonging and empowerment to learn. In 2013, Camp Manitowa is offering week long specialty camps that focus on water skiing, magic, rock school, science, and the popular sport of Gaga. With its unique program and offerings, Camp Manitowa Rend Lake is a great place for campers to experience all the fun and adventure of a summer camp.