In the land of Illinois, sandwiched between the dazzling city of Chicago and the mighty Mississippi River, live some of the most talented, toe-tapping, trumpet-tooting kids you've ever seen! This isn't your ordinary state, oh no! This is a state where music doesn't just happen, it leaps into life with a swing and a smile! Our story begins with a cool character named Jazzy Joe. Jazzy Joe isn't your typical Illinoisan. He's a walking, talking saxophone with the sleekest silver body, a pair of hip sunglasses, and the biggest, brassiest laugh you've ever heard. He's the state's unofficial music mascot, moving from town to town, inspiring kids to take up musical activities. He loves nothing more than the sound of kids making music! The kids in Illinois are spectacular! They're not just blowing hot air into their instruments; they're breathing life into them! They can make a violin sing the sweetest melodies, a drum beat the happiest rhythm, and a piano dance to the most cheery tunes. Every day, from Rockford to Carbondale, the kids gather in school bands, garage rock groups, and even atop the tallest of haystacks, to make the most magical, musical sounds! They strum, they beat, they pick, they blow – creating a symphony of joy that echos across the state. And Jazzy Joe? He's there, too, striding through the cornfields, shimmying through the cities, with the proud, booming laugh for every brave child who picks up an instrument and plays their heart out. So, if you ever find yourself in Illinois, listen out for the enchanting music filling the air, and you just might spot Jazzy Joe, the state’s coolest, jazziest music mentor!
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At Valhallan Naperville, your child’s love for gaming becomes something bigger than just play — it becomes a path for growth and connection. We turn that passion into purpose, helping kids build confidence, teamwork, and real-world skills while doing what they love most. Our experienced coaches lead in-person sessions that blend skill-building with life lessons. Through guided practice, strategy discussions, and collaboration, players learn how to communicate, lead, and grow — both in and out of the game. More than anything, Valhallan Naperville is a community. A place where young gamers belong, make friends, and challenge themselves to reach new levels — not just as players, but as people. Here, every child has a chance to shine and become a true legend in their own way.
At Camp Carew, we provide a setting where children and young adults can experience the Christian faith in fellowship with others. We strive to help people deepen their understanding of God, each other, and the natural world. Our goal is to help build campers’ sense of personal worth and their relationship to Jesus Christ and their peers. Camp Carew is proud to be a member of the American Camp Association and has achieved accreditation status. Our activities and programs are designed to promote Christian community and help campers build relationships with each other. Campers and leaders work, plan, play, study, sing, and worship together in the small group living units. We offer Christian summer camps for children and young adults, and host retreats for people of all ages throughout the year. Camp Carew has been serving the community since 1952. The camp is nestled on sixty acres in the beautiful woods of Little Grassy Lake, located inside the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge near Carbondale, Illinois. With this unique setting, Camp Carew provides the perfect atmosphere for strengthening faith and creating lifelong memories.