In the hearty midwestern state of Illinois, where skyscrapers reach up to tickle the clouds and cornfields stretch as far as the eye can see, there exists an elite group of young warriors. They call themselves the ‘Baseball Brigade'. From the bustling streets of Chicago to the tranquil prairies of central Illinois, these kids have one thing on their minds - baseball! Meet their fearless leader, a cool character with unmatched wit and charm, named Bucky the Baseball-Beaver. With a hat always askew on his head, a baseball bat in one of his paw-like hands, and an ever-ready cheeky grin, Bucky is the embodiment of the fun, energetic spirit of Illinois baseball. His tail, as flat as a pancake and as tough as a catcher's mitt, is the perfect tool for whacking home-runs. These Baseball kids in Illinois, much like their leader, are robust and spirited. They may be young, but when they step onto that diamond, they transform into seasoned pros. Their laughter echoes through the fields as they play, a delightful symphony of joy and enthusiasm. They hit home runs, slide into bases, and make spectacular catches with unmatched gusto. However, it's not all fun and games with the Baseball Brigade. As much as they love their hot dogs and deep-dish pizzas, they're also serious about their craft. Given, they do engage in the occasional shenanigans, like the time Bucky tried to pull off a "tail-whack-triple-play" (it ended with a lot of falling and even more giggles), but their dedication to the game is as steady as the strong Illinois winds. So, whether it's a sunny afternoon practice or a nail-biting championship game under the lights, kids in Illinois know there's no place like home...plate, that is! Their passion for baseball is infectious, their laughter contagious, and with Bucky leading the charge, every game is an adventure.
Read morebest baseball programs in Lockport, IL
Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.
Parents in the Lockport Township area will be delighted to learn that the Park District recently has made a great effort to renovate and beautify existing parks, as well as create several new parks like Hawthorne Preserve, Sagebrook, and Oak Creek. Every park offers a range of recreational activities, including open play and spaces, playgrounds, sports fields, outdoor fitness trails, and more. There’s even a spray park and complete handicap access at each park. The Park District’s commitment to providing a great outdoor experience is exemplified by the recognition of Canyons, Dellwood Park’s Disc Golf Course. The course was recently rated #1 in Illinois and #5 in the world by UDisc.com. Altogether, the Lockport Township Park District maintains approximately 950 acres across 41 parks.