In the great state of Illinois, where the winds whistle through the sprawling cornfields and Lake Michigan sparkles under the golden sun, there exists a group of extraordinary kids engaged in a fantastically unique pursuit. They are the Wood Warriors of Illinois, the state's coolest woodworking artisans. This talented band of youngsters have an astonishing ability to transform ordinary pieces of lumber into extraordinary works of art. Their leader is a whimsical chap named Whittlin' Willie. Willie, with his curly mustache, checkered flannel, and an old worn-out hat, has a secret tool belt full of magical woodworking tools. He is the type of guy whose laughter sounds like a woodpecker at work. In the hands of these young enthusiasts, guided by Whittlin' Willie, a simple block of wood could be magically transformed into a race car, a dollhouse, or even a tiny replica of the Willis Tower! Whittlin' Willie and the Wood Warriors of Illinois meet every weekend in the woodshop, where the air smells of fresh pine and sawdust. There, amidst the sounds of laughter, the buzzing of saws, and the whirring of drills, they craft pieces that amaze everyone. Their work is a testament to their creativity, patience, and the beautiful simplicity of woodworking. The Wood Warriors have been known to be so engrossed in their work that they forget about their lunches, and sometimes even their homework! But fear not, for their trusty leader, Whittlin' Willie, with his knack for hilarious wood puns and a charmingly goofy grin, ensures they always have a ‘bark-tastic’ time while enriching their craftsmanship skills. So, if you ever visit Illinois and hear the faint hum of woodworking tools, know that Whittlin' Willie and his Wood Warriors could be crafting their next masterpiece nearby.
Read morebest woodworking programs in Elizabeth, IL


The New England Academy of Gymnastics (NEAG) is the perfect place for your little gymnast to level up their skills and make new friends this summer! With a 14,000 square foot facility that boasts both men’s and women’s Olympic equipment and plenty of training systems for each event, NEAG has everything your child needs to reach their goals. No matter what level of experience your child has, from beginner to advanced, NEAG has something to offer them.


The Amstutz family has been working hard to create an experience that combines our love of nature and the outdoors with a desire to share our knowledge of sustainable farming and animal care. We have a large variety of animals – horses, chickens, pigs, cows, turkeys, sheep, and goats – and we take great pride in caring for them. We also have acres of vegetable gardens, an outdoor kitchen, a playground, and a nature trail. The Amstutz family has put their imagination and hard work into creating The Country Experience – a 34 acre farm located in the heart of rural Ohio. The Country Experience is a summer sleepaway camp, but it is also a place for school groups and teachers to experience hands-on learning, a destination for families to get away and relax, and a home to delicious wood-fired pizza. The Amstutz family is passionate about providing a unique experience that combines their love of nature and the outdoors with sustainable farming and animal care. Visitors to The Country Experience can meet and interact with horses, chickens, pigs, cows, turkeys, sheep, and goats, explore acres of vegetable gardens, and take a stroll along the nature trail. Plus, there is an outdoor kitchen and playground for even more fun and fresh air.