Welcome to the magical state of Maine, where the air smells like the ocean, pine trees and pancakes! It's also home to a bunch of crazy, fun-loving kids who are Gaga for Gaga Ball! You see, Gaga Ball isn't just a game in Maine, it's a way of life! Imagine a super cool, imaginary character named Larry the Lobster. He's a GIANT, red lobster with a heart as big as his claws. Larry loves two things: buttered corn and Gaga Ball. And since he's a lobster, you can bet your last clam he's pretty good at it! Every day, Larry and his friends gather at the Gaga Ball pit in their local park. Larry's claws are his secret superpower. Whack! Pow! Swoosh! Each time he hits the ball, it zooms across the pit like a comet. The other children are in awe, but they're not intimidated, oh no! They love the thrill of the game and the laughter it brings. These kids are fearless, energetic and full of life. They tumble, dive, dodge and leap. It's all in a day's fun in the Gaga Ball pit. They play until their faces are as red as Larry's shell, and their laughter can be heard echoing across the whole of Maine. After a good round of the game, they all huddle together for a story from Larry, usually about his legendary Gaga Ball matches. Larry and his friends are Maine's Gaga Ball warriors. Their stories are the stuff of legend, their laughter the soundtrack of their childhood. The state of Maine is more than just its beautiful landscapes; it's also about these kids, their camaraderie and their wild and wonderful Gaga Ball games!
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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.
Abraham and Gertrude Krasker, a professor and teacher from Essex College, had a dream to own a summer camp of their own. They found the perfect spot, a farm nestled in Fryeburg, ME and opened the doors of Indian Acres Camp for Boys in 1924. Two years later, Forest Acres Camp for Girls opened two miles down the road. When Abraham passed in 1962, their son Dick took over ownership and management of both camps. With his wife Sandy, Dick ran camp until 1998 when it was purchased by Lisa and Geoff Newman. The Newmans were determined to keep the Krasker's legacy alive and with the help of Neal and Julie Waldman, their dream became a reality. Today, Indian and Forest Acres is a thriving summer camp thanks to the hard work of the Newman family. Almost 100 years after its founding, the camp continues to honor the traditions and vision of its founders, Abe and Gertrude Krasker.