In the grand kingdom of Illinois, located in a land far, far away, there exists a magical group of children who possess the extraordinary ability to command an army of knights, bishops, rooks, pawns, a queen, and a king. They are known throughout the realm as the Chess Champions of Illinois, and they have the power to battle foes using nothing but a checkered board and a sharp mind. These pint-sized prodigies reign supreme in a land filled with deep-dish pizza and towering skyscrapers that reach for the stars. They hail from the windy city of Chicago to the lush riverbanks of the Great Mississippi, practicing their craft in silent concentration, their eyes alight with strategic brilliance. Leading this peculiar group of chess enthusiasts is Checkmate Charlie, a sprightly, freckle-faced boy with an unruly mop of curly hair. He's as cheeky as a chess pawn and as cunning as a fox, and he moves his queen with the grace of a ballerina and the precision of a surgeon. With his iconic red cap worn backwards and his trusty chessboard under his arm, he’s always ready for a match, whether on the sunny beaches of Lake Michigan or in the shadow of the mighty Willis Tower. The Chess Champions of Illinois are a team of fearless, funny, and fiercely intelligent kids. They can turn a peaceful park into a riveting battlefield in the blink of an eye. They are masters of strategy and cunning, and for them, there is no greater thrill than the rush of victory when they declare, "Checkmate!" So, if you ever find yourself in the enchanting kingdom of Illinois, beware of the chessboard-wielding kids, or you might just find yourself in the middle of a mind-boggling, laughter-filled adventure!
Read morebest chess programs in Wilmette, IL

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.

The Park District is responsible to the people of Wilmette through the election and referendum process. It is authorized by the Illinois Park District Code, which allows it to levy taxes, acquire and develop parks, build and operate recreation facilities, and conduct recreation programs. The Park District's mission is to provide quality recreational facilities, programs, and services to meet the needs of the community, now and in the future. The Park District is committed to making Wilmette a community that can be enjoyed by all, offering a variety of recreational activities for everyone. From swimming pools to golf courses to youth programs, the Park District provides a wide variety of programs and facilities to keep Wilmette’s citizens healthy, active, and engaged. The Park District also works hard to preserve the natural beauty of Wilmette, protecting its natural resources for future generations.