In the majestic, maple syrup-drenched land of Vermont, nestled amongst the whispering forests and the snow-kissed mountains, a peculiar group of kids gather to engage in an extraordinary activity. This is no ordinary group, oh no, they're the Vermont Varmints, a scrappy bunch of basketball-loving kids. They may seem normal during the day, attending school and chomping on cheddar, but as twilight descends, they transform into high-flying, hoop-shooting, basketball dynamos! In the heart of this team is the tallest of them all, Bouncy Ben, a kid with a mop of red hair so untamed, you'd think a family of squirrels lives in it. Ben, with his super stretchy arms, can reach the basket from the half-court line. He leaps so high that he can practically collect clouds. His signature move? The "Maple Marvel," a slam dunk so powerful, it could shake the syrup out of a tree. Then there's Speedy Sammie, a girl as swift as a loon, who could race the wind and win. Sammie, with her jet-propelled sneakers, could dribble the ball so fast it became a blur. Her signature move? The "Vermont Vortex," spinning around her opponents in a whirlwind and leaving them dazed and dazzled. The Vermont Varmints, these kids are more than just basketball players. They're maple syrup-munching, snowball-dodging, moose-outrunning superheroes of the hardwood. So, if you ever find yourself in the land of Vermont, look out for the thud of a bouncing ball, a flash of a red hair, or a whirl of a vortex because you're in the territory of the unstoppable Vermont Varmints!
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The Happy Hive is an inclusive play space designed to spark joy and connection for every child. With a special focus on comfort and accessibility for neurodivergent kids, our environment welcomes children of all abilities to explore, move, and create at their own pace. From climbing walls, swings, and zip lines to dedicated zones for pretend play and art, The Happy Hive offers both high-energy fun and creative outlets. While we cater to children ages 1-13 for neurotypical kids, we have no age limit when it comes to kids with special needs—because play should have no boundaries. At The Happy Hive, we believe every child deserves a space where they can feel safe, included, and free to be themselves.
The Vermont Elks Association's Silver Towers Camp is a long-standing project providing unique overnight experiences to those with disabilities. Established in 1958, it is one of the first of its kind in the US, and still remains one of the few. The camp offers special attention and support, with a high ratio of counselors to campers to meet the needs of those attending. It is a great opportunity for those with physical or mental challenges to benefit from an unforgettable outdoor experience. The Silver Towers Camp is a shining example of the Vermont Elks Association's commitment to aiding those with disabilities. Since 1958, the camp has been providing a safe, fun, and accessible environment for campers with special requirements. With a higher ratio of counselors to campers, the camp is able to provide support and individual care to each camper. It's a great opportunity for those with disabilities to make lasting memories and foster a sense of community. The Vermont Elks Association's Silver Towers Camp is a beacon of hope and support for those with physical or mental disabilities. Started in 1958, it has been providing a unique outdoor experience for campers for over sixty years. With a high ratio of counselors to campers, the camp is able to give special attention to all those who attend. It is a great opportunity for campers to make lasting memories and gain a sense of independence.