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.
At Glacial Park, McHenry County Conservation District’s most treasured open space, outdoor adventure awaits. Over 3,400 acres of rolling prairie, delta kames, oak savanna and tranquil presence of the meandering Nippersink Creek make this destination a nature lover’s paradise. From fishing and birding, to biking and paddling, Glacial Park is the perfect spot for a day of exploration. The park is home to over 40 state endangered and threatened plant and animal species, and is listed as one of the top five areas to view migratory wetland birds in the region. Over 64,000 guests visit the park each year to hike or horseback along eight miles of trails, bike a five-mile portion of the 26-mile Prairie Trail, or fish the shoreline of Nippersink Creek. At the Lost Valley Visitor Center, visitors can enjoy changing exhibits, pick up trail maps and guide books, and check out upcoming featured programs, outdoor concerts or workshops. Self-guided exploration is also encouraged, with options such as the Glacial Park hiking app, the two-mile interpretive trail loop, or outdoor treetop decks equipped with binoculars, guide books, and viewing scopes. No matter your interest, a day at Glacial Park promises a unique and unforgettable experience.