It’s a bird. It’s a plane. It’s a super dad! And in Chicago we have lots of them. Meet 10 local dads that are special in more ways than one. Whether baking cookies, advocating for families, inspiring scientific minds or making strides in medicine, these fathers are huggable heroes that balance their careers, their families and maybe even a superpower or two. Flip through our album to meet them.

The Play Space Co-Owner: Abdón Valenciana, Jr.

Even though he lives in Pilsen, you’ve definitely seen Abdón at one of your favorite South Loop hangouts. As the co-owner and manager of day-to-day operations at Sod Room, he fuels this eco-friendly playroom with positivity. In fact, he’s probably checked you in and helped you with your stroller. It’s Abdón's goal to make all guests feel like family. Outside of the playroom, his two boys, Abdon III (8) and Paulo (6), keep him pretty busy. You can catch them munching on Lou Mitchell's homemade donuts, chillin’ in “Spider Park" (aka: Mary Bartelme Park) or relaxing at Garfield Park Conservatory. Since Abdón has already completed the Chicago Marathon, he’s hoping to rise to the challenge of the Chicago Triathlon this year.

Do you know a dad that should have made our list? Let us know in the Comments!

— Natasha Davis

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