In the wee, tiny state of Connecticut, known to its friends as CT, where the apple pies are as sweet as the local honeybees, amazing things are happening every single day! This place might be small, but it's packed with bold, brave kids who are flipping, tumbling, and cartwheeling their way to glory in the super-awesome world of gymnastics. These kids, they’re not your average run-of-the-mill youngsters. Oh no! They are the members of the "Connecticut Cartwheeling Crew," and they train under the watchful eyes of the legendary coach, Sir Bumblebee Billy, who was part bee, part human, and all heart. Sir Billy, who once buzzed his way around the world, doing backflips on every continent, had returned to his hive of CT to train the sweetest gymnasts known to mankind! Every day, as the sun peeks over the treetops, these kids jump out of bed, gobble down a breakfast of cereal and the state's famous maple syrup, then scurry off to the gym, their laughter echoing through the maple-lined streets of Connecticut. They train hard, pushing their bodies to do extraordinary things, like tiptoeing on balance beams as thin as a piece of lasagna and launching themselves into the air with all the grace of a flying squirrel on a windy day. Their routines are sprinkled with giggles, high-fives, and the occasional snort of laughter when someone makes a funny face while performing a tricky move. Despite the occasional bee sting, they know that under the guidance of Sir Bumblebee Billy, they are not just becoming gymnasts, they are becoming fearless, fun-loving, CT superstars!
Read moremore gymnastics programs near New Canaan, CT
Looking for an after-school care solution you can count on? Look no further than the Enrichment Center. We offer a comprehensive, trustworthy, and budget-friendly program designed to cater to your child's needs and your peace of mind. Our committed staff ensures that every child gets the attention and care they deserve. Serving the wonderful community of Hallandale Beach and its local schools, we take pride in the exceptional care and services we provide. We're not just a daycare, we're a nurturing environment where your child can learn, grow, and thrive. Our dedicated team is passionate about offering the best possible care, creating a safe and engaging space for your child. Why wait? Get in touch with us today to learn more about our top-notch services. At the Enrichment Center, we believe in providing the best for your child. Choose us, and rest assured that your child's after-school care is in the best hands. Trust us to provide an enriching experience that your child will love and benefit from.
At our weekly Olympic Themed Clinics, kids have the chance to experience a variety of fun-filled activities to help develop their physical skills, as well as explore their creativity! We have a variety of activities such as water slides, slip n slides, water balloons, tie-dye and arts and crafts. Kids need to remember to bring a snack, bathing suit and a change of clothes to ensure they have the most enjoyable experience. Spots are limited, so be sure to sign up ahead. We offer Saturday and Sunday times with 1.5 hours of obstacle courses, relay races, tumble track, parachute games, rope climb, supervised play, foam pit, indoor playscape, moon bounce, rock climbing and much more. These are competitive yet fun activities that will help your child practice their coordination and physicality in a safe and supervised environment. Don't miss out on the opportunity to have your child explore and learn while having fun and join us for our weekly Olympic Themed Clinics.
The Evjen Academy opened in January 2006 in a small studio on Mountain Road and since then, our dancers and faculty have worked hard to make the studio a thriving and successful one. Our dancers are taught to reach for their goals with determination, perseverance and sweat. We offer technique classes, rehearsals for performances and strive to help each dancer reach their personal best. We look forward to welcoming you and your family into our dance family. Our goals are to continue to build confidence, poise and strength in each of our students and to foster a sense of community and giving back. Our warm and inviting atmosphere will be sure to make you feel right at home!
At Empire All Star Cheerleading & Gymnastics, we offer an array of classes and activities to help children of all ages and skill levels get the most out of their athletic pursuits. Our weekly tumbling classes provide a fun way to learn the basics of tumbling, while our private tumbling lessons provide an opportunity for more focused instruction. We offer recreational girls and boys gymnastics classes for those just starting out, as well as a competitive boys and girls gymnastics team for those looking to take their skills to the next level. For those interested in competitive cheerleading, we have a variety of all star cheerleading teams for both boys and girls. At Empire, we strive to provide an environment that promotes physical fitness and mental growth. We believe that by participating in competitive sports, children learn invaluable life lessons and gain the character-building skills that will help them succeed both on and off the field. Our goal is to provide a positive and safe learning environment for all our athletes, where they can learn, grow, and excel in the sports they love.
Our 15,500 square foot facility is state-of-the-art with the latest equipment for gymnastics fun and learning. We provide birthday party packages for kids to celebrate in style, and we also offer competitive teams for those looking to take their gymnastics to the next level. At Next Dimension Gymnastics, we understand the importance of family. That's why we welcome you to come to our facility for a free evaluation. See for yourself why we are the premier destination for gymnastics in Trumbull, CT and the surrounding communities.
At Just Dance Studios, we are passionate about introducing the world of dance to children of all ages. Our Spot program is designed to provide an encouraging and inspiring environment in which young dancers can learn and grow. Our classes cover a variety of styles, from jazz and contemporary to hip-hop and ballet, and range from beginner to pre-professional level. We also offer preschool programs that go beyond just teaching dance steps, and focus on proper alignment, terminology, technique, and musicality. Our Spot program is dedicated to helping each dancer reach their fullest potential not only as a dancer, but as a well-rounded individual. Our warm and creative atmosphere provides a safe space for children of all abilities to express themselves through movement. We believe in empowering our students to reach their goals and strive to provide the highest quality of dance education.
At Farmington Valley Gymnastics & More, LLC, we are passionate about giving kids the tools they need for a bright future. Established in 2004, our goal is to provide programs that challenge the body and mind while also having fun. Our 25,000+ square foot facility has three gyms filled with junior and Olympic regulation equipment, giving children the opportunity to improve their physical fitness, strength, and agility in a clean, safe, and inviting environment. Our staff is First Aid, CPR and USA Gymnastics Safety Certified, ensuring children have the best possible experience. Parents can watch their children in action, safe in the knowledge that their children are in safe and caring hands. We are committed to helping children become responsible, healthy, and happy, setting them up for success in the present and the future.
Our Xcel Program runs for 4 weeks at a time, with one class per week for $80. There is an annual registration fee of $25 per school year, which is non-refundable. You can drop out at any time, but please notify us if you plan to take a break. To view our class schedule and times, simply click the link to "register for classes". If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us via email at Kristi@waterfordgymnasticscenter.com. Xcel is a USA Gymnastics competitive program that offers flexibility to coaches and gymnasts. It provides gymnasts of varying abilities and commitment levels with the chance to have an enjoyable and rewarding experience. The program consists of 5 levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum and Diamond. With our Xcel Program, you can be assured of getting the best gymnastics training with the most experienced instructors. We look forward to helping you reach your goals!
Silk City Gymnastics and Dance is continuing the great tradition of Wininger’s Gymnastics and Dance, established in 1974. The new owners, Lazar and Iliana Gakev, have kept the same philosophy and coaching staff as the original gym, while also creating an enjoyable environment for gymnastics and dance classes. Lazar and Iliana Gakev bring a wealth of experience to the gym. They have both achieved numerous medals for their gymnastics performances in international competitions, Lazar being an alternate for the 1988 Olympic Games and Iliana competing at the 1994 World Championships. Furthermore, they have both earned Bachelor of Science degrees in Gymnastics Coaching. Silk City Gymnastics and Dance are committed to providing the highest quality gymnastics and dance instruction in the area. With Lazar and Iliana at the helm, they will continue to create an enjoyable atmosphere while imparting their knowledge and expertise to their students.
Founded in 2013, Flips Gymnastics has been offering a safe and exciting experience in gymnastics for kids of all ages and abilities. Our youth and preschool programs are designed to help children grow physically and socially every month through fun, non-competitive activities. Kids can earn stickers, stamps, ribbons, and certificates for participating in the program, without ever competing. As an added bonus, Flips Gymnastics also offers a variety of special events throughout the year! Parents Night Out and open gym are just some of the activities that parents and kids can enjoy! So come on down and check out our facility - we look forward to seeing you in the gym! At Flips Gymnastics, we are committed to helping your child reach their full potential in a safe and encouraging environment. Our program provides a fun, non-competitive atmosphere that rewards students for working hard and achieving new skills. Stop in anytime and see for yourself what Flips Gymnastics has to offer!
At Tumble Jungle, your little one can explore, run, and jump to their heart's content! Our in-ground trampolines, 45-foot zip-line, and inflatable zone offer a safe and exciting environment for kids ages crawling to 12 years old. Not only will your children have a blast, but our after school program will help them build self-confidence, hone their social skills, and strengthen their cognitive skills. Are you looking for a fun and educational activity for your little one? Look no further than Tumble Jungle! Our range of activities from trampolines to zip-lines to inflatables is a great way to get your child active and have a blast. Our program caters to children from the time they start crawling up to 12 years old - providing an environment that is both safe and stimulating. Plus, our afterschool course helps your child develop important life skills, including confidence, social abilities, and cognitive skills. Tumble Jungle is the perfect spot for children between the ages of crawling and 12 to explore, run, and jump! We provide an in-ground trampoline, a 45-foot zip-line, and an inflatable zone that will give your little one hours of fun and excitement. As an added bonus, our after school program will help your child grow socially, emotionally, and mentally, as they develop self-confidence, social skills, and cognitive skills. So come join us and let your child experience the joys of Tumble Jungle!
For 40 years, Bristol Future Champions Gymnastics (FCG) has been providing quality gymnastics classes for children in the Bristol community. The organization is a division of the Boys & Girls Club of Bristol and offers classes for toddlers as young as 15 months old. Additionally, FCG offers AAU Competitive Teams. The 6,000 square foot facility is conveniently located on West Street in Bristol, CT and is easily accessible from routes 6, 72, 69, 229 and I-84. It has been at its current location since 2013 and was previously known as Bristol Family Center Gymnastics. FCG has been a staple in the community for the past four decades and is proud to continue to offer children a safe and fun place to learn and grow.
At All Stars Gymnastics Academy, our 12,000 square foot facility is equipped with all the necessary equipment to provide gymnastics classes for each level. Our state-of-the-art facility includes a 40 ft tumble track, Foam Pitt, full spring floor, trampoline, and soft play. Our dedicated staff of enthusiastic educators and athletes will make sure your child is in a safe and fun environment. With specially sized preschool equipment and a non-competitive atmosphere, children of all ages will be able to develop their coordination, speed, balance, agility, flexibility, strength, and power.
Helping to strengthen our community is at the core of our mission at the Y. Our commitment to inclusivity and collaboration means that we partner with members, volunteers, and other organizations to ensure that everyone can gain the skills and resources needed to reach their full potential. We strive to make our community a place where everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
At East Celebrity Elite, we believe that cheerleading is more than just a sport, it’s a way of life. Our programs offer more than just physical activity. We strive to foster a sense of camaraderie and team spirit among athletes in order to create a positive and encouraging atmosphere. Our athletes learn the value of hard work, dedication and good sportsmanship. We are proud to have been a part of so many of our athletes’ lives, and we look forward to continuing to provide a solid foundation for many more athletes to come.
At Dynamite Academy of Gymnastics, we understand the importance of every aspect of a child's life to their development. That's why we started our family-owned business in January 2001 in Waterbury, CT. We strive to create a fun, positive, and challenging gymnastics program for kids of all ages. Our mission is to help every child reach their full potential and discover their inner champion. At D.A.G., we recognize that every child is special and unique. We work closely with the family to nurture the growth and development of each child. We are committed to providing an enriching, supportive environment so that every child can reach their full potential. At Dynamite Academy of Gymnastics, we believe in the power of every individual. We strive to help each child realize their full potential through our fun, positive, and challenging gymnastics program. Our goal is to create a safe and nurturing environment where children can grow and discover their inner champion.
Are you looking for ways to get your child involved in a fun and active sport? Look no further than recreational and competitive gymnastics programs! Gymnastics offers a range of activities that are designed to help children develop strength, balance, flexibility, coordination, and confidence. Recreational gymnastics provides a safe environment for kids to explore and have fun. Programs are tailored to the individual's age and skill level, and can include tumbling, vaulting, beam, bars, and floor exercises. Competitive gymnastics programs focus on perfecting the skills necessary to compete in the sport of gymnastics. Professional coaches emphasize technique and safety, while teaching children the importance of hard work and dedication. Not only does competitive gymnastics help children stay physically active, but it also helps them develop social skills and emotional resilience. For parents looking to get their children involved in a sport that's both fun and beneficial, recreational and competitive gymnastics programs are a great way to get started. With the right program, your child can develop strength, balance, coordination, and confidence while having a blast.
At the YMCA of Greater Hartford, we believe in the power of community. We understand that when people come together, amazing things can happen. We are committed to helping individuals of all ages reach their fullest potential in spirit, mind and body. We also recognize the importance of giving back to our community. We strive to be a leader in the Greater Hartford area in terms of providing assistance to those in need. With the generous support of donors, we are able to offer financial assistance to thousands of members of our community each year. We are proud to be a charitable association open to all, and we are passionate about making a positive impact in our community.
At the YMCA of Greater Hartford, we believe in creating a safe and supportive environment where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together to learn, grow and thrive. Our dedicated staff is committed to providing quality programs and services to promote healthy living, personal growth and social responsibility. At the YMCA of Greater Hartford, we believe in a holistic approach to development – one that nurtures the spirit, mind and body. Our programs provide a variety of opportunities for people to learn, grow and develop, from physical fitness classes to educational and leadership development workshops. We also strive to foster an environment of openness, respect and responsibility, where each person feels valued and supported regardless of their background. The YMCA of Greater Hartford is committed to creating a community that values and respects all individuals. We strive to provide a safe space where everyone is welcome, and where people of all ages and backgrounds can feel empowered to reach their fullest potential. Our programs and services are designed to support the development of spirit, mind and body, while our commitment to universal values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility help create a culture of kindness and inclusion.
At the YMCA of Greater Hartford, we are dedicated to helping people develop their fullest potential in spirit, mind, and body. We strive to live out universal values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, which are reinforced by our commitment to Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility. We provide more than 100 programs and services through our 10 branches and two resident camps, which serve Hartford, Litchfield, Tolland, and Windham counties. We are a charitable association open to all, and we are excited to continue building lifelong success for everyone we serve.
Are you looking for a great place to learn performing arts in Connecticut? Then you should consider enrolling in the New Haven Academy of Performing Arts! Our school offers a wide range of lessons for all ages, including voice, piano, guitar, bass, ukulele, drums, violin, viola, horns, acting, and dance. Here at the Academy, we understand the importance of providing high quality education in the performing arts and are dedicated to helping you or your child achieve their goals. At the New Haven Academy of Performing Arts, we strive to create an atmosphere that is both encouraging and welcoming. Our experienced instructors are dedicated to helping each student reach their fullest potential. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced student, our knowledgeable staff will be there to provide the guidance and support you need. We also offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate busy schedules. As the number one choice for performing arts education in Connecticut, the New Haven Academy of Performing Arts is committed to providing the highest quality of instruction. With our wide range of classes and flexible scheduling, you’ll be sure to find the perfect program to fit your needs. So come join us and experience the Academy difference today!
Studio BE is conveniently located in the heart of North Haven, in the newly renovated Washington Commons plaza. We are celebrating our 11th year of performing arts education this year! The studio offers a variety of classes, such as ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary and hip-hop. Whether your child is just starting out or has been dancing for many years, Studio BE has something to offer. At Studio BE, we believe that performing arts can have a positive impact on each individual’s life. We strive to help our students develop the self-confidence and appreciation of the performing arts. Our goal is to help each student reach their full potential, and we are always excited to share our passion for the performing arts with the North Haven community.
At The Studio, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to explore the performing arts and develop their creative potential. Our instructors provide a fun, encouraging, and challenging environment, allowing students of all ages to uncover their talent and reach their full artistic potential. Our staff is made up of experienced professionals from New York City, who are passionate about the performing arts and have a wealth of knowledge to share with their students. At The Studio, we understand that the performing arts can provide an invaluable outlet to express oneself. Our instructors are passionate about helping students of all ages to tap into their creative potential and reach their goals in the performing arts. We provide innovative, high-quality instruction, and our instructors are up-to-date on the latest trends being used in the industry today. They have the unique ability to empower students with skills and confidence that can enrich all aspects of their lives. At The Studio, we are committed to providing a fun, encouraging, and challenging environment that will help students to develop their artistic skills. Our staff consists of active professional artists from New York City, who are successfully pursuing a life in performance. With their help and guidance, our students gain the tools and confidence they need to succeed in the performing arts and achieve their goals.
As parents we know how important it is to keep our kids busy and active. That is why Busy Bees offers a secure and entertaining environment to get their energy out! Our playground is designed to stimulate their imagination and creativity, while ensuring their safety. We understand that playtime is a crucial part of a child's development, and Busy Bees is dedicated to helping your child explore, learn, and grow in a clean, safe and fun setting. We strive to provide an environment that encourages the power of play and friendship!
At Caffery’s, we strive to ensure your child’s experience with us is extraordinary. Our instructors are highly invested in your child’s growth and development, and make it our mission to enrich and empower their creative, intellectual, social, and physical well-being through the arts. Our staff is dedicated to pushing each child to their highest potential, while finding the best way to motivate and challenge them. Our classes are tailored to each child’s individual needs and abilities, and if we feel that your child needs to be challenged further, we will provide them with additional help. We are confident that your child will develop and grow with us.
For nearly four decades, Bristol Future Champions Gymnastics has been providing children in the Bristol community with a variety of gymnastics classes. From classes for toddlers as young as 15 months, to AAU competitive teams, FCG offers a variety of opportunities for youth in the area. Located at 390 West Street, the 6,000 square foot facility is conveniently located near Routes 6, 72, 69, 229 and I-84. The organization moved to its current location in 2013 and changed its name from Bristol Family Center Gymnastics to Bristol Future Champions Gymnastics in 2018.
At the Joan Lynn Dance Center and Company, we’re thrilled to be celebrating our 35th Anniversary Season! Established in 1986 by Executive Artistic Director Joan Christensen, our center has provided quality dance education to families in Hamden and the Greater New Haven area for over three decades. We’re committed to giving our youngest dancers the very best start in the world of dance. Our programs are designed to be fun and engaging, introducing them to the technique and music of dance in a supportive environment. We’re proud to have passed down our love of dance to generations of dancers, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds. Join us this season as we celebrate 35 years of the Joan Lynn Dance Center and Company!
At East Lyme Regional Theater, families can come together to be enriched and inspired by the arts. Through the hard work and dedication of the theater’s team, a summer camp and classes in theater arts have been added, reviving a tradition of family theater that was established many years ago. Now, families can experience positive entertainment and involvement while watching their children grow in terms of self-confidence, artistic expression and teamwork. East Lyme Regional Theater is dedicated to building community and enriching lives through the arts. With the addition of a summer camp and classes in theater arts, the theater is now able to resume the former East Lyme Arts Council and East Lyme Children’s Theater’s tradition of family theater. This program will provide an amazing opportunity to families, allowing them to watch their children develop and flourish with the help of self-confidence, artistic expression and teamwork, all while providing positive family entertainment and involvement. At East Lyme Regional Theater, the vision is to create an environment where families can come together to be enriched and inspired by the arts. With the expansion project now underway, families can now be a part of this wonderful program, giving their children the opportunity to explore and develop their talents and skills in the arts. From the theater’s team’s hard work and dedication, this program will provide a positive experience for all families involved.
At Kinetic Kids Gymnastics, we believe in the power of gymnastics to make a positive impact on our students’ health and well-being. Our unique program offers so much more than just learning flips and tumbles. We believe that gymnastics creates the perfect environment for kids to learn life lessons that will stay with them forever. Through gymnastics, our students develop self-confidence, hone their physical abilities, and learn the discipline needed to achieve their personal goals. At Kinetic Kids Gymnastics, we take great pride in the positive difference we are making in the health and well-being of our students. Our program offers an invaluable opportunity to learn essential skills that will last a lifetime. With our emphasis on developing self-confidence, physical abilities, and the determination to attain personal objectives, Kinetic Kids Gymnastics is leading the way in providing our students with the necessary tools to live a healthy and productive life.
Pascale and Antico’s World Cup All Stars have grown and flourished over the years, and their mother-daughter team has become a beloved part of the competitive cheerleading world. Their impressive resume includes 25 National titles, three Grand National Championships, and five bids to the Cheerleading Worlds competition. They are two of the most successful and influential female coaches in the sport and have inspired many young female athletes to pursue their dreams of becoming a successful competitive cheerleader. Elaine Pascale and Joelle Antico are a remarkable mother-daughter team who have made an incredible impact on the competitive cheerleading world. After coaching Pop Warner teams since Pascale's daughter joined, the two decided to form the World Cup All Stars and have since won 25 National titles, three Grand National Championships, and five bids to the Cheerleading Worlds competition. Their success has inspired many young female athletes to pursue their dreams of becoming competitive cheerleaders. It is a great example of the power of female ambition and dedication.
At My Gym, we’re passionate about helping children reach their full potential. We strive to create a supportive and safe environment where kids feel free to explore and take risks in a place that’s tailored to their individual needs. Our programs help children build physical skills, develop a sense of accomplishment, and gain an appreciation for healthy habits. We are inspired and motivated by the success of each and every child who participates in our programs. At My Gym, we’re dedicated to providing children with a fun and engaging experience that encourages physical development, boosts self-esteem, and helps kids reach their full potential. Our unique approach combines physical activity, positive reinforcement, and plenty of laughter to create an environment where children can learn and grow. After more than 35 years in the business, we’re thrilled to see the joy and excitement that our programs bring to children and their families.
Raising children can be an arduous task, but our program provides a safe, nurturing, and structured environment that helps them grow. Through our dedicated program, children can experience the joy of success and build their confidence. We teach them the importance of hard work, dedication, and teamwork, all of which are essential components of achieving success. With our program, children learn that when they put in the effort, they can reach their goals.
Parents who are looking for a unique sport for their child may want to consider rhythmic gymnastics. This sport combines the elements and techniques of ballet and dancing with the strength of artistic gymnastics. Rhythmic gymnasts do not perform tumbling like artistic gymnasts, but rather do handstands, rolls, cartwheels, and other movements. At competitions, rhythmic gymnasts are judged on the execution of their routine which involves jumps, turns, balances and flexibility postures. The minute long routines are performed to music and are captivating to watch. Rhythmic gymnastics has a slightly theatrical vibe and requires facial and physical expression to be successful. Rhythmic gymnastics can be a great way for a child to develop their talent through consistent training and proper coaching. This sport also offers many benefits that will last throughout life. Girls who partake in rhythmic gymnastics will gain increased range of motion, which can reduce the chance of injuries later on in life. Not only will the child gain physical benefits, but will also gain the confidence of performing in front of an audience and the discipline of mastering a routine. Rhythmic gymnastics is a unique and beautiful sport that can provide many physical and mental benefits for the child. With proper coaching and consistent training, a child can develop their talent and perform in front of an audience. The physical benefits of increased range of motion can reduce the chance of injury later in life. Parents should consider rhythmic gymnastics for their child, as it can offer them an opportunity to develop their talent and gain confidence.
At American Gymnastics, we understand that exercise and fun don't have to be separate. We offer a variety of gymnastics classes designed to help kids of all ages and fitness levels stay active and have fun. Our experienced coaches and staff members have years of experience and are dedicated to helping each and every child reach their goals. We believe that gymnastics is an excellent way for children to maintain a healthy lifestyle and have a great time. We offer a wide range of classes for different levels of skill and fitness. Our experienced coaches and staff members are passionate about helping each and every child reach their full potential. At American Gymnastics, we are committed to helping kids stay active and have fun at the same time. Our team of experienced coaches and staff members are here to support children of all ages and fitness levels. We are passionate about fostering a positive environment where children can learn and have fun while staying healthy and active.
At GTC, we are invested in the success of your child. Our experienced and certified instructors are here to ensure your child has an engaging and fun experience while developing skills that will last a lifetime. We are proud of our 43 year history here at GTC and we are excited to meet you! Welcome to GTC – a gymnastics program that has been providing children of all ages with a fun and engaging environment since 1976! We are proud to be part of the Amateur Athletic Union and USA Gymnastics, two organizations dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles and physical fitness. Our non-competitive classes are tailored to each individual’s needs and encourage them to develop their skills at their own pace. We also offer competitive gymnastics for boys and girls who are looking to take their passion to the next level. Our experienced and certified instructors will ensure your child gets the most out of their experience, while learning the skills that will stay with them for life. At GTC, we are here to help your child reach their goals, whatever they may be. We invite you to come and meet us – you’ll be glad you did!