In the land of Illinois, sandwiched between Lake Michigan and the mighty Mississippi, a group of adventurous kids known as the Trekking Tadpoles embarked on hiking escapades. Illinois was their playground. From the bustling streets of Chicago, across the fertile prairies, to the lush Shawnee Forest, they hiked with glee, leaving no stone unturned. Leading the pack was an imaginary character, Captain Cornstalk. He was as tall as a skyscraper and as thin as a beanpole, with kernels for teeth and a husk for hair. Born from a popcorn kernel, he had popped into existence, fueled by the children's love for adventure and their affinity for IL's famed cornfields. "Listen up, Tadpoles!" Captain Cornstalk would declare, his voice rustling like corn leaves in the wind. His corn-silk hair fluttering, he'd point his cob finger in the direction of their chosen path. The kids, brimming with excitement and armed with their hiking boots and water bottles, followed their corny leader, chuckling at his corny jokes, whistling Illinois' state song, and relishing the exercise and fresh air. These pint-sized adventurers hiked through the year, in sunshine or snow, admiring the spring blossoms and the autumn hues. They discovered and named sites like ‘Popcorn Peak’ and ‘Kernel Creek,’ laughing at their shared corn-inspired humor. Each hike was a celebration of the state's scenery, a silly symphony of kids, and kernel-filled puns. In the grand land of Illinois, the Trekking Tadpoles and Captain Cornstalk filled each day with adventure, laughter, and memories, proving that with a bit of imagination and a love for the outdoors, every hike can be a corn-ucopia of fun!
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Mad Science of NE Phoenix is a leading provider of entertaining scientific enrichment activities for children. We are committed to making learning an enjoyable and engaging experience through our unique and interactive science activities. Our comprehensive educational programs include after-school classes, birthday celebrations, and specialized workshops. Furthermore, we also organize special events and summer camps to keep the passion for science burning throughout the year. At Mad Science of NE Phoenix, we firmly advocate for experiential learning. Our programs are meticulously designed to ignite children's innate curiosity and foster a lifelong interest in science. However, the fun doesn't stop there! Our programs seamlessly blend education and entertainment to make learning an exciting adventure for kids. At Mad Science of NE Phoenix, children get to explore the wonders of learning in the most thrilling way imaginable. Mad Science was established in 1985 in Montreal, Canada, by two brothers, Ariel and Ron Shlien. What started as a hobby of performing astonishing science experiments that captivated their neighborhood children, turned into a prospering business. Mad Science is now a global enrichment firm that brings the fascination of science in a hands-on manner to millions of children every year! Locally owned and managed by Adam Mendoza, Mad Science of N.E. Phoenix is proud to have spent over 20 years providing exhilarating STEM experiences to children across Arizona.


The Glenview Park District works tirelessly to create a safe and vibrant community. As an independent organization, separate from the Village of Glenview, the Park District has been able to provide recreational and open space needs for the area for over a century. With the help of other local government organizations and community groups, the Glenview Park District has been able to make sure the area is filled with happiness and health, and that everyone is able to appreciate the environment around them. The Glenview Park District has been a pillar of the community for nearly a hundred years. Their goal is to ensure that everyone in the area has access to recreational activities, open spaces, and a supportive environment. They work in cooperation with other government bodies and community organizations to provide these services and to make sure that everyone is able to lead a happy, healthy life. At the Glenview Park District, they recognize the importance of the environment and strive to foster a deep appreciation for it. Through their efforts, the Park District has been able to create a safe and inviting community for everyone to enjoy. They are dedicated to making sure that the area remains this way, and will continue to meet the needs of the community for many years to come.


At Kent Fuller Air Station Prairie, visitors can explore the 32-acre tall-grass prairie and learn about the cutting edge sustainable technologies it has to offer. The Evelyn Pease Tyner Interpretive Center, known as the first LEED Platinum building in this area, demonstrates how to easily integrate “green” habits into everyday life. Whether you’re just visiting for the day or looking to take part in a volunteer program, Kent Fuller Air Station Prairie is the perfect place to explore the wonders of our Earth’s ecosystem.