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208 Storage is helping you find friendly locations in areas we do not serve.
The following facilities are NOT associated with 208 Storage!
4043 E 14th St
Des Moines, IA 50313
3221 Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy
Des Moines, IA 50310
2500 SE 14th St
Des Moines, IA 50320
139 SW 63rd St
Des Moines, IA 50312
1800 E Army Post Rd
Des Moines, IA 50320
6525 Center St
Windsor Heights, IA 50324
6600 Hickman Rd
Windsor Heights, IA 50324
5267 Merle Hay Rd
Johnston, IA 50131
125 S 13th St
West Des Moines, IA 50265
1901 S Ankeny Blvd
Ankeny, IA 50023
- 5' x 5' Unit24 Hour Cameras, Climate Control
- 10' x 10' Unit24 Hour Cameras, Climate Control
- 10' x 20' Unit24 Hour Cameras, Climate Control
9821 Douglas Ave
Urbandale, IA 50322
205 SW Irvinedale Dr
Ankeny, IA 50023
205 SE Delaware Ave
Ankeny, IA 50021
1850 SE Miehe Dr
Grimes, IA 50111
60 NE Venture Dr
Waukee, IA 50263
Storage Units in Des Moines
Des Moines, IA: Top Things to Know About Storage
The Basics
There are 65 storage facilities in Des Moines, almost all of which are in our network. If you haven't been in Des Moines long, or you're in the process of moving there, it's easy to underrate the midwestern city. But we kind of think you shouldn't. Forget Brooklyn, Portland and Austin. The prairie paradise
The Basics
There are 65 storage facilities in Des Moines, almost all of which are in our network. If you haven't been in Des Moines long, or you're in the process of moving there, it's easy to underrate the midwestern city. But we kind of think you shouldn't. Forget Brooklyn, Portland and Austin. The prairie paradise of Des Moines is a hipster wonderland that's growing in population, and let's face it; people need space for all their stuff. That's where we come in. Des Moines has a metro area of 611,549 people, but the population is up by 7.4% since 2010 and it's still on the rise. So is there enough space for everyone? With just an estimated 35,750 individual units in the city, competition for storage can be tight. Des Moines has a relatively low cost of living (expect to pay around $800 a month for a one bedroom apartment) and a good job market, which means that there are more people in town who can actually afford extra space. It stands to reason that these same people who can afford to rent a storage unit can also afford a slightly bigger apartment, so expect to find a wider availability in storage units if you're looking for a larger size. StorageMart has a ton of facilities across Des Moines and they offer desirable features like climate control and online bill pay. They're also one of many storage facilities that offers new customer specials like one month of free storage, so if you're new in town and you've never rented a storage unit before, you can save money by taking advantage of this.
You Can Bike to Your Storage Unit
Obviously we don't suggest trying this if you're carrying a couch or something, but we do want to point out that unlike in larger cities (Los Angeles, Atlanta, Houston, Washington DC...we could go on and on), it's very easy to get around Des Moines which means it's very easy to access your storage unit. The city has a 19.2 minute average commute time, and most residents boast that they can make it from their suburban homes to their downtown offices in 15 minutes flat. That's thanks in large part to the recent widening of I-235 and also a user-friendly bus system. Des Moines is ranked 28th in the nation for bike friendliness, so getting to your storage unit on two wheels is possible if you want to do it, plus it's eco-friendly. Another thing to think about when taking into account the commuter-friendly nature of Des Moines is whether or not you need 24 hour access to your unit. This isn't an easy feature to find in Des Moines, but if you need it, you can rent a storage unit at M&W Mini Storage. Fortunately, unless your schedule is totally crazy or you're some kind of midwestern vampire who can't go out in the sun, you can probably live without 24 hour access.
Does Des Moines Make You Think About Insurance?
We don't know about you, but all of these big insurance companies in Des Moines (ING, Nationwide, Principal Financial Group, Allied Insurance and Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield) have got us thinking about the super fun topic of insurance. It's easy to assume that your storage facility lease includes some kind of automatic built in insurance. Unfortunately, this is pretty much never, ever the case. Even if your facility does offer coverage, it'll probably be pretty basic and won't necessarily cover what you want it to. If you're storing something like a car, RV or boat that's already insured, you should be all set. But what about a 10x10 storage unit full of furniture? What about your book collection which contains a few valuable first editions? You can always take the additional step of renting a climate-controlled storage unit to protect against weather damage, but if you're storing something that's important, expensive or totally irreplaceable, it's worth considering insurance on the storage unit. Make sure to read your policy carefully. In Des Moines, you're going to want insurance that covers natural disasters, which brings us to our next point:
When it Rains, It Pours
Des Moines gets 36 inches of rain a year. In fact, The Great Flood of 1993 left citizens without running water and forced Anheuser-Busch to start passing out cans of water in a relief effort (though we're pretty sure passing out cans of Bud-Lite would have been pretty much the same thing). You can imagine the effect that a flood can have on your home, but not everyone thinks about the effect that it can have on your storage unit. Besides considering insurance, you should also ask your facility manager about how floods (and all other types of weather related scenarios) have affected the property in the past. Your storage facility manager will contact you if something like this occurs and damages your storage unit, but isn't it great to be a few steps ahead and do everything you can to protect the items in your unit as much as you can before the worst case scenario happens? We recommend indoor storage to prevent water from seeping under the door of your unit. We also recommend avoiding the use of cardboard boxes, which can absorb moisture. Don't place items like books, artwork, photographs or cushioned furniture directly on the bottom of your storage unit either, even if you are storing inside. Yes, these extra steps might require you to purchase a few extra items (like plastic totes and pallets) and they may require a little more of your time, but they're totally worth it.
Storage FAQ's
What storage space sizes are available?
In Des Moines, there are 23 storage facilities, with a total of 30 storage units. Storage unit sizes generally range from 5' X 5' to 10' X 30'. Call one of your local facilities to have a representative find what size unit is best for you.
Do you have pest control?
Most facilities in Des Moines schedule professional pest control services every month, and twice a month during summer months.
Will the company have access to my space?
No, no one in the storage facilities has access to your space unless you specifically ask them or give them the right to do so. For example, you may want them to have access to your unit for things you may want delivered directly to your unit.
What are the prices of the storage spaces? Are prices based on the square footage of the storage space?
Generally the prices of storage units in Des Moines vary based on the size of the storage unit and the location of the unit in the facility. Prices range between N/A and N/A, but representatives can better assist you once they have the details of your storage needs.
Do you have advice on how to pack my storage space?
Yes, storage managers can provide you with tips and techniques on how to most efficiently utilize your storage space. Their hope is that you can have easy access to your items and that your storage space is worth every penny of your money.
Do you have different policies and prices for students or active military members?
Students and active military members are clients that have unique needs because of the nature of their schedules. Most storage facilities in Des Moines offer discounts to students, and discounts and different policies for active military members. Please call your local facility or see our students and active military members pages to get detailed and updated information.
Do you accept deliveries for customers?
Most storage facilities in Des Moines accept deliveries for their customers so that they don't have to go through the process of moving every time they need something to be placed in their storage units. They will keep your items in the office and will inform you when they arrive so that you can place them in your storage unit at your convenience.
What security measures are taken to protect the storage units?
Security is every storage operator's priority. Speak with the storage manager of a facility of your liking in Des Moines to find out what security measures they take to protect your belongings.
Is there anything unique to keep in mind when choosing a storage facility in Des Moines?
Some factors to keep in mind when choosing a storage facility in Des Moines are: weather, peak rush hour times, items that you will be storing, and location within Des Moines.
How do I know what size storage I need?
Storage managers would be happy to help you determine which size unit is best for you so that you're not paying for a 10' X 30' unit when you really need a 5' X 5' unit. Please reference our size guide for more information.
Do I need insurance for my storage unit?
We recommend that you get insurance for your belongings because the contents of the units are not insured through storage facilities.
What access will I have to my belongings?
You have 23 facilities to choose from in Des Moines. Access hours range from 8 to 24 hours a day. Please contact your local facility for more specific information about your unit.
Do you sell boxes and moving supplies?
Yes, most storage facilities sell boxes of various sizes, tape, bubble wrap, labels, and other items for your packing and moving needs.
How long is the lease and what are its terms?
Storage companies in Des Moines offer a month-to-month lease. If for some reason you would like to cancel your lease during a particular month, please contact one of the facility managers to assist you.
What if I need more or less space after I move in?
Once you move in and feel that you need to move into a smaller or bigger space, storage facilities are happy to accommodate your move. Before renting a space, it is recommended that you speak to a storage facility representative to help you find the best sized unit for your needs. If things change through the course of your lease, they will help make the transition to your next unit as efficient and simple as possible. We also have a size guide that may answer some preliminary questions you may have.
Will I receive a monthly invoice?
Most storage companies in Des Moines only provide invoices upon request.
Should I rent a drive-up or interior storage unit?
Drive-up storage units are typically more expensive and not as clean as interior units. Drive-up units are more exposed to the elements (water, dust, etc.) and are therefore not as clean as interior units. Interior units, on the other hand, have a much better climate. Essentially, the desire to rent a drive-up unit comes from clients thinking that they will be visiting their unit very frequently, which is surprisingly not the case. Most people don't come to their units as often as they think they will, so given the cost and cleanliness issues, it's better to rent an interior storage unit.
Can I rent climate-controlled spaces in Des Moines?
Yes, climate-controlled spaces are available in Des Moines due to the varying weather. Temperatures range from 41.0 to 51.8, which can dramatically affect things in your storage unit. For storing items such as wine, wooden items, electronics, metals, artwork, etc. storage facilities recommend that you rent a climate-controlled unit. For questions and more details, please contact a local facility.
Do you provide your customers with movers?
No, storage facilities do not provide movers. However, managers and team members would be happy to provide you with a list of reliable and reasonably priced movers in Des Moines. See our resource guide for movers in Des Moines.
If I lose my key, can you provide another one?
No, storage facility employees do not have copies of the keys used for the units. If you lose your key, check with the facility for lock cutting fees. They may also be able to sell another lock and key to you.
What options do I have for payments? What forms of payment do you accept?
Most storage facilities accept cash, credit cards, or checks. Always ask about autopay, it's faster and much more convenient.
Des Moines, IA Military StorageViewHide
Des Moines, IA Military Storage
If you're in the military, you're used to having a lot asked of you at times when it comes to serving your country. Sometimes the thing that's asked of you is a relocation to another part of the country. If you've recently moved from somewhere else to Des Moines, get ready to enjoy a rapidly growing city that still feels like a small town. There's a lot of things to figure out when you're somewhere new. We think that storage should be one of the easier ones. Here's what you need to know about storage if you're in the military and you're in Des Moines:
Storage and the Des Moines Air National Guard BaseDes Moines Air National Guard Base is a small base located at the Des Moines International Airport (so basically you have no excuse for being late for your next flight). As you might expect, if you're moving to work at this base, you're not going to be offered any kind of barracks or privatized housing. This would be unnecessary since the base is centrally located and housing in Des Moines is very affordable. It's so affordable, in fact, that you might be able to afford a bigger place than you're used to having if you're from a pricier city. You may be able to factor in an extra bedroom or an apartment with bigger closets when calculating storage space. A high percentage of storage users report moving as one of the main reasons for using storage. Because housing is reasonably priced and widely available in Des Moines, you may consider taking your time and shopping around for your new apartment or home rather than renting online sight unseen. Thanks to flexible leases at storage facilities which allow for month-to-month rentals, you can keep your furniture and other belongings in storage for as little or as long a time as it takes to find your new home. For nearby storage, check out StorageMart's facility on Army Post Road, just three miles away.
Storage and Camp DodgeCamp Dodge is actually located about 20 minutes outside of Des Moines in the nearby town of Johnston, but due to its proximity to the big city, it's easy to understand why so many troops there call Des Moines home. Like Des Moines Air International Guard Base, there's no housing here either. Housing and storage options will be very similar. If you're looking for storage close to the base, search for storage in Johnston rather than Des Moines. You'll have your choice of many different facilities.
Military ConsiderationsBesides looking for discounts at places like Adventureland (great for families), you should also be sure to ask your storage facility manager about military discounts. Another thing you'll want to ask your storage facility manager about if you've got some personal weapons is whether or not they allow the storage of guns. Some facilities do allow this, but none allow for the storage of ammunition. If you can't find a facility that allows this, contact a local gun club or store and see about options for storage there. And of course, speak to superiors on the base about this, as they can either provide weapons storage or help you find it.
Des Moines, IA RV and Boat StorageViewHide
Des Moines, IA RV and Boat Storage
One great thing about Des Moines in addition to its cultural offerings is its proximity to rolling hills and fishing holes. It's a great excuse to work the word "bucolic" into your vocabulary, plus it's a great excuse to take your RV or boat out for a spin every now and then. Because the weather isn't perfect year round (the area experiences 36 inches of snow a year), it's unlikely that you'll be able to take advantage of these toys for 12 months straight. During the off-season, you're going to need a place to keep your RV or boat. If your driveway isn't an option, or you just like the idea of keeping it somewhere that's more secure, RV and boat storage can provide you with a great solution. Here's what you need to know:
Space is LimitedDes Moines is growing fast. What was once a small town is turning into a world-class city. It's our hope that the number of storage facilities will keep up with the pace, but as it stands right now, options are somewhat limited. When you're looking for any kind of specialized storage, these options naturally become even more limited. Case in point: One of the only places out there that offers RV and boat storage is M&W Mini Storage. Their RV and boat storage options range from 10x27 to 10x45, so you'll want to make sure your rig can fit before you consider this option. Because this is pretty much the only game in town, it's to your advantage to lock down a space long term if you can get one. Many RV owners do this in cities with limited storage. It may seem annoying to have to pay for a storage spot that you're only parking in for a few months, but it's less annoying than not having storage at all.
Think About the SeasonsDes Moines experiences some pretty drastic temperature variations throughout the year. In storage facility language, this is worst case scenario for tenants who don't take the extra time to properly prepare RVs, boats and cars for storage. Read up on preparing your RV for winter storage so that snow and cold temperatures don't adversely affect your vehicle. Besides snow, storage is also affected by the 35 inches of rain that Des Moines experiences a year. There have been some pretty nasty floods in the area, so you'll want to take a moment and review your RV or boat's insurance policy before you park it in storage and forget about it. Some insurance policies protect against natural disasters, while others don't. Go for the former. And be sure to ask your facility manager about how rain and snow have affected the property in the past.
The Iowa State Fair and StorageYou've probably heard about the epic Iowa State Fair which brings together the national pastimes of eating deep fried Oreos and looking at goats. But did you know you can park your RV there? This is a great event for RV owners to take advantage of, so that you can truly immerse yourself in all 11 days of fun. The Iowa State Fairground has 2,300 sites and is open for most of the year. It's super close to downtown and offers 24 hour security and dumping stations. Getting a spot here in the off-season is easy, so if you can't find storage right away, this can make for a relatively inexpensive option if you're okay with living in your RV for a few months. If you've got your RV in storage, the proximity to the fairgrounds should give you a head start on waiting in the long, long line that's required of folks looking to get in without reservations. Believe it or not, all 2,300 sites do fill up. If you're looking for a permanent one, be warned that there's a 10 year waiting list. We think the deep fried Oreos are worth it.
Des Moines, IA University StorageViewHide
Des Moines, IA University Storage
In 2015, Des Moines was ranked third on a list by SmartAsset of best cities for grads to get started in, and in 2014 it took the top spot on a Forbes list of best cities for young professionals. Thanks to a massive influx of careers in insurance and publishing plus a low cost of living, Des Moines is an ideal community-and job market-to dive into. If you're relocating to Des Moines for college, small dorms and student apartments are sure to create space issues for you after living with your parents. We understand that storage might be a bit of a foreign concept to you, but we're here to help you figure out how it can work for you in Des Moines.
How it WorksBefore you start searching for a storage unit in Des Moines, you're going to need to figure out how much space you'll be needing. Found out how big your dorm room or apartment is along with features like closet space, whether or not dressers are provided and whether or not campus housing allows bed lofting (this will let you store a lot more stuff underneath your bed and is a solid reason to opt against taking the top bunk in a bunk bed situation). If you're only planning on bringing basic items like seasonal clothing, sports equipment and a few other odds and ends, you'll probably want a 5x5 unit. If you're bringing a lot of furniture or a celebrity closet sized clothing collection, you'll want to size up, but probably not by much. Because Des Moines is easy to get around and offers great public transportation, you don't need to look for storage within walking distance of your school, but if this is important to you, be sure to speak with a facility manager about what you need to do to lock down a spot early, as units will fill up before summer and winter break. Once you've picked the right size and the right facility, you'll sign a lease. These are typically quite flexible and run month-to-month. Most facilities also allow you to share a space with a friend which will cut down costs big time. Last but not least, look for student specials. Many facilities post flyers about deals in the spring that allow you to pay a low rate up front for the whole summer, that way you don't have to worry about paying a bill every month while you're on vacation.
Summer StorageAh, yes, that brings us to summer storage. This is the most popular season for student renters. We've already covered how demand for storage affects availability, but let's talk about something that you might not think of if you're new to storage. That's climate control. Des Moines experiences some of the worst weather conditions for storage users. Summers are hot and winters are cold. In addition to this, the city sees 35 inches of snow and 36 inches of rain annually. In the summer, you should protect vulnerable items in storage like electronics (that big TV you're storing) and antique furniture (that one of a kind armchair you found thrifting) against heat and humidity by opting for climate controlled storage. There are 11 StorageMart facilities that offer climate control in Des Moines, so if the first one you call doesn't have availability, see if the facility manager can refer you to a property that does have the unit you're looking for.
Students and SecurityMaybe it's the midwestern charm, but Des Moines has a very low crime rate. However, this doesn't mean that you should throw caution to the wind when it comes to thinking about security. Try to choose a facility in an area that you feel comfortable going to, as security at a storage facility should be about your safety in addition to the safety of your belongings. A property at which staff walks the grounds on a regular basis will add to this feeling of safety. You should also look for a storage facility that's fenced in, well-lit and only accessible to tenants and staff. Other great features include security cameras, actual security officers and individual alarms on units.
Helpful Storage Resources
Charity Storage
Charity Storage utilizes existing storage facility operations, namely storage units and auctions, to raise money to benefit the community. Charity Storage is a promotional outreach program that depends on the support of the self storage industry, the Self Storage Association, and millions of North American self storage tenants and neighboring communities.
FreeStore helps women in crisis move out of abusive homes and accepts gently used kitchenware, furniture and anything else that might help someone move into an unfurnished apartment.
Animal Rescue League of Iowa
Animal Rescue League of Iowa is an animal shelter that accepts pet supplies and office supplies.
Animal Lifeline
Animal Lifeline is an animal shelter that accepts clothing, electronics, and small household items.
Dress for Success Des Moines
Dress for Success Des Moines provides underserved women with interview ready clothing and accepts your used blouses, skirts, suits and other business attire.
Planned Parenthood Book Sale
Twice a year, this book sale accepts used books to benefit Planned Parenthood.
Moving Company
All Mighty Movers
All Mighty Movers will give you three movers and a truck for $105 an hour, plus they offer spring cleaning specials.
The Affordable Movers
The Affordable Movers specializes in storage unit moves as well as residential and commercial moves.
Lint Van Lines
Midwest Electronic Recovery
Midwest Electronic Recovery recycles computers and other electronics and offers data destruction.
Des Moines Junk
Des Moines Junk offers junk removal for items like mattresses, appliances, carpet, scrap metals and more.


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Latest CAFC Ruling Suggests A Whole Lot Of Software Patents Are Likely Invalid
from the target-practice dept
Now in the first post-Alice ruling on a software patent at CAFC (the appeals court that handles all patent cases, and which is infamous for massively expanding the patentability of software over the years), the court has smacked down a patent held by one of the many (many, many) shell companies of patent trolling giant Acacia. The shell, Digitech Image Technologies, got control of US Patent 6,128,415, which had originally held by Polaroid. The patent supposedly describes a setup for making sure images are consistent on a variety of different devices. Acacia/Digitech did what patent trolls do and basically sued a ton of companies, including NewEgg, Overstock, Xerox, Toshiba, Fujifilm and more.
A lower court kicked out the patent, and now CAFC has upheld that ruling, making use of the Alice ruling to make it doubly clear this isn't patentable. The court doesn't waste too much time, as the ruling is quite short. The key bits:
There is no dispute that the asserted method claims describe a process. Claims that fall within one of the four subject matter categories may nevertheless be ineligible if they encompass laws of nature, physical phenomena, or abstract ideas..... The Supreme Court recently reaffirmed that fundamental concepts, by themselves, are ineligible abstract ideas. Alice Corp. v. CLS Bank... In determining whether a process claim recites an abstract idea, we must examine the claim as a whole, keeping in mind that an invention is not ineligible just because it relies upon a law of nature or mathematical algorithm. As noted by the Supreme Court, "an application of a law of nature or mathematical formula to a known structure or process may well be deserving of patent protection." ... A claim may be eligible if it includes additional inventive features such that the claim scope does not solely capture the abstract idea.... But a claim reciting an abstract idea does not become eligible "merely by adding the words 'apply it.'"As Tim Lee notes, this ruling is great for folks opposed to software patents, and should send chills down the spines of those who support them. Because that basic reasoning can invalidate a hell of a lot of software patents.
The method in the '415 patent claims an abstract idea because it describes a process of organizing information through mathematical correlations and is not tied to a specific structure or machine.
[... Discussion of specific claim in the patent ...]
The above claim recites a process of taking two data sets and combining them into a single data set, the device profile. The two data sets are generated by taking existing information—i.e., measured chromatic stimuli, spatial stimuli, and device response characteristic functions—and organizing this information into a new form. The above claim thus recites an ineligible abstract process of gathering and combining data that does not require input from a physical device. As discussed above, the two data sets and the resulting device profile are ineligible subject matter. Without additional limitations, a process that employs mathematical algorithms to manipulate existing information to generate additional information is not patent eligible. "If a claim is directed essentially to a method of calculating, using a mathematical formula, even if the solution is for a specific purpose, the claimed method is nonstatutory."
Consider Google's famous PageRank patent, which covers the algorithm at the heart of Google's search engine. In the language of the Federal Circuit, it claims the use of "mathematical algorithms" (involving eigenvectors) to "manipulate existing information" (a list of links between web pages) to "generate additional information" (a ranking of the pages).The number of software patents out there that use algorithms to manipulate existing information to generate additional information is... rather large. And they may all be invalid.

subset: commoncrawl


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Cambridge, Mass. – In a tightly contested affair, the MIT Engineers men's tennis team outlasted Bates College for its fourth win in a row. MIT beat the Bobcats 5-4 on Saturday afternoon at JB Carr Tennis Bubble.
The Engineers grabbed two points in the doubles round, although Bates was able to win 8-4 at first singles through Robert Crampton and Matt Bettles. The pair got the best of Larry Pang and Curtis Wu. MIT battled back and Matthew Skalak and Ken Van Tilburg beat Tim Berg and Samuel Woods 8-4 to even up the match. Tech grabbed the advantage after a third doubles win by Andrew Cooper and Edwing Zhang (8-3).
Bates was strong at the top again in singles, as Bettles and Crampton each were victorious. Bettles got the better of Van Tilburg (6-1, 6-3) and Crampton was too much for Pang, beating him 6-1, 6-4.
It was the lower half of the MIT singles roster that took the victory, thanks to wins by Zhang, Skalak, and Brian Oldfield. Skalak beat Kyle DeSisto 6-4, 6-1 at sixth singles while Zhang beat Tim Berg by a 7-5, 6-1 count.
The Engineers improve to 4-1 on the year and will host Amherst College on March 26th. Bates evens their record to 3-3 and will travel March 18th to play at Mary Washington.
MIT 5, Bates College 4
Mar 12, 2011 at Cambridge, Mass. (JB Carr Tennis Bubble)
Singles competition
1. Matt Bettles (BATES) def. Ken Van Tilburg (MIT) 6-1, 6-3
2. Robert Crampton (BATES) def. Larry Pang (MIT) 6-1, 6-4
3. Edwin Zhang (MIT) def. Tim Berg (BATES) 7-5, 6-1
4. Brian Oldfield (MIT) def. Jeffrey Beaton (BATES) 6-4, 6-3
5. Peter yanofsky (BATES) def. Curtis Wu (MIT) 6-4, 2-6, 10-8
6. Matthew Skalak (MIT) def. Kyle DeSisto (BATES) 6-4, 6-1
Doubles competition
1. Robert Crampton/Matt Bettles (BATES) def. Larry Pang/Curtis Wu (MIT) 8-4
2. Matthew Skalak/Ken Van Tilburg (MIT) def. Tim Berg/Samuel Woods (BATES) 8-4
3. Andrew Cooper/Edwin Zhang (MIT) def. Jeffrey Beaton/Kyle DeSisto (BATES) 8-3


text: Hundreds of Millions expected to die in USA and Canada from Japans reactor melt downs and more will see the same in other countries. And Hundreds of Millions of animals as well. This is a supplemental to RadiationAlerts.org. We are a brother site to the research for solutions to these issues at gdr.org Global Deactivation of Radiation. (pending updating) Note, the videos below are from the blog system, and are subject to old news at times.


text:
Tested: HTC Vive Review
Published on Apr 5, 2016
The consumer release of the HTC Vive is finally here! We've been testing the Vive Pre for a while and the final headset for about a week, playing VR games with tracked controllers in a roomscale setup. Jeremy and Norm discuss the setup process, ergonomics, comfort features, and launch content for Steam VR. Plus, we play through Valve's first-party VR game, The Lab!


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One of my opinions about economy is that before we even begin to establish its structure we must agree upon the ontological nature of reality. As we have based our current economic system on the implicit premisse of free will without considering that this might not be a true representation of reality.
Our society has made a giant leap forward by moving from the aristocracy of birth to the meritocracy we live in today, which sadly so many people by nature of their short-sightedness perceive as the final improvement. Although this is a major amelioration it is still inherently immoral.
We got a verb in my native language that suits well here: Each bird sings as its beak is mouthed.
We are determined in every way, we are what we are because of our genes ( internal factors) and our surroundings ( external factors). It is the 'I' that makes the decision, but do we decide what we decide?
So if we as a society agree upon the determined nature of ourselves, our entire economic system should be revised from the bottom up as it is based on the deeply immoral idea that a person should be rewarded based on his ability to make money , which is not the merit of this person, but simply made possible by chance or fate. Hence our economy is simply the application of the right of the strongest. Which is the fundamental rule that applies to life insofar that it is an unconscious unguided process. The difference is that man IS conscious and CAN guide the course of things (to an extent), this gives us a great responsibility to act and an ethical imperative to control and limit it. The problem is that the people who have the power will very rarely, if at all, have the moral courage and strength to undermine their own power for the good of the collective.
On a side-note, our economic structure is formed in such a way that we don't even have to make a tangible contribution to society to earn legal money (financial investors and such).
Also, communism or even socialism has such a dogmatic negative connotation in the states, instilled by the government in the minds of her people. It is true that communism as it has been executed in the past and present is almost as far from an ideal society as it can be, but the cause of this lies in a fault in its executors, and not in the ideology itself. Fascism should not per definition accompany communism.
Our economic system, and society as a whole, is inherently immoral on such a myriad of ways that it is hard to conceive that there aren't countless of people like Sam who criticise it.
It are the people on wall street who are the real thieves, as they have by way of complex financial constructions tumbled the world in an downward spiral. By allowing more and more high-risk loans to be given and insuring themselves against it so that they make even more money when the creditor can't pay it back. Rating-bureaus who give AAA ratings to even the highest risk loans, raising questions about their integrity. The people whom devised those mechanisms and countless others in the financial system make millions and millions while at the same time dozens of millions of people are left without a job just because of the domino effect that their actions created. Yet they aren't reprimanded in any way, on the contrary, it are the same people who caused the financial depression who sit in the economic advisory board of Obama. Ensuring from the top that the banking system is deregulated, and aggressively putting down anyone who would suggest that it should be regulated.
Man must be controlled by law ( the state). And it is, among other things, thanks to the refusal of the government of the U.S. to regulate the banking system that we're all in this mess. Allowing banks to speculate wildly with the money of Average Joe, putting their clients meager life savings on the line to make hundreds of millions themselves.
So I wonder who those readers whom criticise Sam's economic ideologies would consider the biggest thief if they were fully informed? The financial investor on Wall Street that makes hundreds of millions a year on the back of Average Joe without contributing a thing to society, or the man that tries to limit their almost diabolical ruthless drive to make money and distribute their excess to the most needy.
I think\hope every rational and foremost ethical person would choose the first!


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|2012-03-27, 08:00
|Link #81
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2011
LoP: I'll kindly point out that Zen made a very, very strong statement that the form that you can see with your eyes isn't what's important. He might've only been talking about himself and Mykage, but I'm taking it as a hint -- or a warning? -- that any and all visual/physical similarities to original series characters are potential fake-outs of some kind or other.
Spoiler for Zen/Touma Speculation:
|2012-03-27, 08:07
|Link #82
Om nom nom nom
Join Date: May 2008
Location: In a pinepple, under the sea
Age: 27
But right now, Mikono isn't even returning Kagura's feelings. In fact, she's more terrified than ever.
When Kagura called her Sylvie, she was all like "wtf" face.
If Mikono doesn't return Kagura's feelings, that would be pretty tragic in itself, for Kagura. He would probably be broken/destroyed over it, and go out in an all out rage or something of the sort.
Also, could it be possible that her family has descended from the De Alisia family line? Taking into consideration that back in the OS they were the only family that were made up of elemental users, and now Mikono's family line is pretty much the same?
But, this is probably a far fetched theory of mine.
|2012-03-27, 08:26
|Link #84
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: New York, NY
One thing is sure, love does not make Aquarion go insane, it makes it stronger, since Jin was in love and it only upgraded Gepard.
|2012-03-27, 08:48
|Link #85
Senior Member
Join Date: Aug 2008
Last edited by pingva; 2012-03-27 at 16:41.
|2012-03-27, 09:00
|Link #86
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: New York, NY
|2012-03-27, 10:30
|Link #87
Senior Member
Join Date: Aug 2008
|2012-03-27, 12:18
|Link #88
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2010
Blush (including Shushu) and how her heart hurts. Those incomprehensible chest pains are not a sign of fear.
Her body and subconscious seems to be recognizing him (that or someone else is transmitting it like her cat: her connect power can be a huge troll). Of course she's consciously afraid (Sylvia was freaked out at her own feelings too when she started to awake her memories), since her encounters with Kagura haven't been the most ideal.
I'll withhold my judgment until they meet in less unfavorable circumstances.
|2012-03-27, 12:35
|Link #89
Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: I'm Dancing & Yelling GANBATTE KAGURA! YOU GO GET YOUR WOMAN BACK!!!!! SHIPPING THEM HARD
You didn't know?
Spoiler for The answer if you care:
BUT...I broke my own heart after I wrote that last post, because I remembered that Kawamori is a TROLL and Touma/Mikage is the Aizen just as planned Sousuke and Fudo is Urahara I'm really not that different from Aizen, you know Kisuke of Aquarion They both have the same goal, they just go about it differently but in the end, they know people will be hurt or die and still do it.
Which means that episode 13 has forced me to admit that there is now an equal chance that me and anyone who thinks Kagura is really Apollon is getting trolled. So now I have two scenerious and one will break my heart....I swear to god, this the last time, I let Kawamori play with my emotions and I will just refrain from loving any character or ship, and just watch the damn show, because he will just stab methe chest, rip my heart out and stab it with rusty fork, before setting on fire all while giggling his ass off about how he sank my ship and killed off all the characters I truly loved. Because I was a fool to believe in him, so I deserved it!..anyway, so I deiced it's not worth the pain and mental anguish anymore ... I refuse to let him hurt me anymore.
My new theories...after some considerable thought and minimal shipping bias (I'd be lying if I said I totally left my shipper bias out)
Because .....
BUT..and I am not denying that it could be because of my shipper dreams --that doesn't quite make sense.
"Happily Ever After"...but this is Kawamori's baby so I doubt it.
I dunno know....but I just don't believe that Amata is Apollon...maybe a wing, but I dunno he's too much like Sylvia so I have a hard time believing it. I can only see Mikono and Kagura as my beloved pairing...not even Amata and Zessica or Kagura and Zessica. They don't fit, imo....if they weren't characters that were reincarnations of the ones from OS, then it would be different.
Mykage Killed Jin, I have never ever seen Fudo kill anyone. He's Crea or he's not but Touma is Mykage, not Fudo. He said that Touma was still bound to his form, while he was not. He didn't deny having a real body. He merely said, the vessel is unimportant but he noticed that Touma still had his. They spoke of Apollonious, not Apollon...therefore it was established that Touma is the same yandere stalker of Apollonious no matter what he looks like. He's a girly-man with wings in his hair, rose petals and decidedly gay for a certain guy. It's Touma. Art evolution? Yes. Does Mykage really look much different from Touma? NO. Which also applies to Amata and Kagura because one of them could be a FAKE
Last edited by Lord of Pandemonium; 2012-03-27 at 13:17. Reason: added something else
|2012-03-27, 13:06
|Link #90
Senior Member
Join Date: Feb 2012
some brilliant mind somewhere brought up the fact that Kagura power is reverse and that EVOL is the reverse of LOVE. So great things can be expected of Kagura gattaing.
I don't feel like reading the whole thread. I hope no one came with it yet.
|2012-03-27, 13:13
|Link #91
Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: I'm Dancing & Yelling GANBATTE KAGURA! YOU GO GET YOUR WOMAN BACK!!!!! SHIPPING THEM HARD
Somehow, Kagura's role has been reversed but he's still the same person.
It made perfect sense once 13 aired, even if it's an assumption. A guy I will call "Odin" and I remarked on the play on words when Evol was first announced. Now it all makes sense and the "forbidden gattai" that could destroy the world....it's like and alternate retailing of Celiane and Apollonious' story...at least it is imo
@ Iron Mike....I would like to add, that Kagura being a fake and some nutjob can also be "an illusion" Amata being Apollon can also be an illusion, in this case it doesn't imply that Kagura is the fake... It could be either one. At the same time, most of you hate him and think he's a creepy stalker imposter...look beyond the surface. He's not what he seems to be--at this point I feel like they're telling you it could go either way and don't be so sure that Amata is it...Especially since Kagura is saying hate, when just looking at my avatar says ...SHOUJO MOMENT ..and EVOL is love backwards, and Love turns into hate and his power is to "Reverse" things and he is the most powerful thing in the show..he doesn't have memory of it so as right now he's weak-- and being that his memories are incomplete, he could have done something to screw it up ...actually the OVA ending seems to play a factor from my POV..both Apollo and Sylvia memories were screwed and they wiped out everything and it's said outright that they changed a Parallel universe. I think they put it back ...wrong when they reassembled everything--oh wait. Reika/Scorpius' memories were also screwed and he/she helped too.
I really think they made a boo-boo and well.......welcome to EVOL.
Last edited by Lord of Pandemonium; 2012-03-27 at 13:30. Reason: Read it now, makes more sense
|2012-03-27, 13:47
|Link #92
Senior Member
Join Date: Mar 2012
I'm more inbetween in regards to KaguraXMikono and AmataXMikono. >.>. I've had a hard time chosing between them since episode 1. :P But in my opinion, this episode sorta damaged the KaguraXMikono ship rather than supported it. This episode really put him in a bad light. Although I found Kagura's happy face and dancing rather hilarious, he took a sharp turn in the wrong direction soon after. Starting when he threatened to kill Amata for no reason and with no hesitation right infront of her even though she was begging him to stop. Mikono now sees that Kagura is more dangerous than he first appeared to be. She doesn't see him as the "lonely dog who just needs company" anymore. She sees him as the " bad wolf who's fully capable of killing people". This may change later on when they finally get some much deserved alone time, but as of now there's a huge gap between them.
Looking at the preview it seems that Jin is not the only one who died during Kagura's attack. Was it because of Kagura? If so, wouldn't Mikono feel guilty because she knows that Kagura was after her? I could see her deflecting because she doesn't want anyone else to die because of her, especially Amata, who almost got the blood flow in his body reversed because of her. I think that this encounter with Kagura will affect her alot, and not in a good way. :/ Expect angst. Lots and lots of angst.
On to Shu-Shu, I think Shu-Shu just reflects Mikono's emotions instead of the other way around since this has happened before. Episode 3, Amata apologizes to Mikono by pulling a dogeza in Aquarion. Mikono accepts his apology, as shown by Shu-Shu here:
Spoiler for Big picture, Picture is big:
Although it hasn't happened in a while. Shu-Shu did react violently to Kagura's presence in episode 6(or 5), so it's not just Amata. If Shu-Shu gains any plot importance and isn't just Mikono's cute head pet anymore, I swear he will be up there with Mykage on my hate list.
|2012-03-27, 14:13
|Link #93
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2011
Lord of Pandemonium: the exact nature of the relationship between Mykage and "that form" wasn't clear. I don't know what the subs put for it, but just going *literally* it should've been something pretty close to "Even now you haven't discarded that form" (I went and checked for you)...it doesn't say it *isn't* his old/original form, but it doesn't say it *is*, either...and under ordinary circumstances I'd say the safest bet is Mykage's original form, but with a series this trollish I'm not going to jump to any conclusions so quickly.
Likewise I'm not sure what the subs had for Appollonius, but the way Mykage talks about Apollonius is very open-ended. When he talks about Appollonius what he said was analogous to saying: "Apollonius, *the* lover from 24000 years ago" (note: not "your" or "my"). To me it sounded less like he was talking about himself and more like he was trying to get Zen angry...and that's how I started to find myself in the "Zen is Touma in disguise" faction.
So that's my story and I'm sticking to it until better evidence comes in. I have no clue who Mykage is -- at all! -- but as long as I'm in the "Zen is Touma in disguise camp" I'm going to be thinking Mykage is anyone but Touma. So let's agree to disagree and wait for more information on him, I guess.
In terms of real versus fake and so on: I have an open mind (I'm on team pro-fabulous, anti-emo more than a specific ship...). Clearly we've been warned that some things are not as they seem on the surface -- though did we really need that warning, I wonder, ? -- but on the other hand everything can't be backwards, and some things have to be more or less what they appear to be.
Zen's use of an hourglass when talking about time made a lot of sense. When you flip it over it counts out the same interval of time but things are running "backwards"...so we'll see. But this is why my first reaction to episode 13 was that it was going to force a lot of theory reevaluation; there's now a lot more that's up in the air than we were thinking.
Last edited by miketyson; 2012-03-27 at 14:15. Reason: response to queensSwild
|2012-03-27, 14:15
|Link #94
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2010
Guys: do you think the ending credits foreshadow something?
As far as couple goes (in the first half), it nicely pairs up:
Book of Genesis-Zessica.*
"The story ends before it could even begin" showing our loli Juliet and underage Romeo.
*Those two characters don't have a ED couple-set, but look they are the ones who had actual visions of the past in the duration of this first cour, they are the ones paired with something that links them to the legend.
It also wouldn't make sense for Gen to try to keep the destined lovers apart and express distaste for the 'red string of fate' as he did in this episode. I don't know... It doesn't really sound like Gen to me...
|2012-03-27, 14:34
|Link #95
Senior Member
Join Date: Mar 2012
|2012-03-27, 14:37
|Link #96
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2011
I just had one more little a-ha then I swear I'm done for awhile, .
So Gepart evolves when it has pilots from both worlds in it. I'd guess we'll the other two evolve at some point, which'd need two more pilots from Altair. For EVOL I think it's obviously going to be Kagura (giving us Aquarion LOVE!, woot!), but that leaves Spada up in the air. I'll be pulling for Izumo + Alisia + someone from Vega (Amata? Family Gattai, Go!...but even after Yunoha's gattai I'm not sure that Kawamori's ballsy enough for that one...).
|2012-03-27, 14:45
|Link #97
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2007
|2012-03-27, 14:48
|Link #98
Senior Member
Join Date: Aug 2004
The lines when the book and zessica appear is something along the lines of - "i will never forget some one like you" and "your flare reaches the moon" kinda like zessica's missle shooting in OP.
|2012-03-27, 14:49
|Link #99
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2010
Has anyone linked this before?
@mayumi: maybe or maybe Apollonius would take that Aquarion bookmark and Celiane the Book of Genesis one.
|2012-03-27, 15:44
|Link #100
Carpe Diem
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: ||At the edge of finality.||
Age: 29
That said, the lyrics do really overlap really nicely for Jin and Yunoha, but the others are really a toss up... though all of them are really gloomy.
Amata and Mikono will never be able to return... to where, each other? (See Cayenne's.)
Mikono will gain the strength to face hardship? (In a way this has happened.)
Is Cayenne going to lose his heart? (Mikono?)
Shrade is going to fail to protect his friends? (I guess he already did in a way...)
Mix or Andy is going to disappear into the sky? (Depressing thought...)
Zessica cannot forget someone or can someone not forget Zessica, is she going to die in a blaze of glory? (Oy!)
*skip Jin and Yunoha*
Kagura is going to sing the tune locked away inside until he destroys himself? (Not... to surprising.)
That or we're just looking too far into this because of one coincidental overlap.
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Bully wont stop drinking!
What to do? Bully wont stop drinking, he's been like that since i got him at 7 weeks and now 8 months.
If he finds a puddle/toilet/container/bowl/lake of water he runs to it and drinks drinks drinks! I tell him "NO!" but he just wont listen to me when theres water arround. He drinks so much that he gets all "fat". I give him his normal 3 bowls of water a day wich should be plenty! He drinks FAST!
It gets to the point that when he goes outside, he's to focus on drinking that he forgets to do his thing.
He eats fine (when he wants), plays fine, doesnt look sick at all...
So i have a dog that wont stop drinking and that poops and pees in the house... He was house trained, but now im not sure i could say he is anymore.
Ive done a bit of research on it, and all i can think of is Kidney failure but he's not showing all the signs, and i dont think that at 6-7 weeks he had it... Or maybe im wrong and they can have it that young. I dont know what to do... Any sugestions? I know i will have to bring him to the vet, but i want your opinions first. Thanks
Bully---Dogo Argentino x American Bulldog
Maybe it is too much of a novelty? When you say you give him three bowls a day do you mean you fill it up 3 x ? Or do you mean you put it down 3 x and take it up again each time? If the latter then I would try leaving a full bowl down for constant access in hopes it will become more usual and less interesting. You'll have to watch closely as he may drink even more at first.
Not to discount any possible medical problem and a new worry you didn't mention..... I would worry about him drinking excessively at one time while out exercising in case of bloat.
What ideas does your Vet and breeder have?
It would make alot of sence if he thinks its more of a treat... I never thought of it that way. So now everytime he sees water, he think its more of a treat then a necessity. I will try and leave the bowl down and add water when needed.
I wouldnt want a bloat to happen, i just researched it and its really scary!
Tonight ill sit down with him and a water bowl and ill try and teach him that the bowl does NOT need to be empty. Ill fill up the bowl, let him drink a bit and then play with him to change his mind.
I know it wont be a overnight fix but it could be a long term fix.
I just hope it works!
Bully---Dogo Argentino x American Bulldog
Bloat is very scary and deadly. I have been through it and may I give you a few tips no water before going out to play no water when you come back for 10-20 minutes then room temperature water. Broad chested and giant breeds are more prone to bloat. I'm not sure how tall your dogs will be but I used elevated dishes so when they eat they are not leaning over and taking in more air. Also after eating wait about 20 minutes then take them out. Read up on it I have a couple of good links I will find them and post them. Don't get freaked out about it a few things will help to avoid it and educate yourself and it will be fine. Clark is a water hog too and other than psychotic he is fine but I agree leave the water down all the time.
A dog has so many friends because they wag their tails not their tongues.
R.I.P. Buddy 2002-2008 The best Mastiff ever.
Now owned by Clark the Crazy American Bulldog
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For the second straight season, Gettysburg and Susquehanna engaged in a record-breaking shootout, but it was the Crusaders who came out top this year, rallying for a 56-55 overtime victory at Shirk Field at Musselman Stadium on Saturday.
Gettysburg (2-2, 2-1 CC) led 48-37 with 9:56 left before Susquehanna (3-1, 2-1 CC) rallied with 11 unanswered points to send the game to overtime. The Bullets took a 55-48 lead after junior tailback Ted Delia scored on a 1-yard touchdown run before the Crusaders scored on their first play of overtime, with Rich Palazzi hitting Spenser Ercole with a 25-yard touchdown pass. Susquehanna then elected to go for the two-conversion and the win, and Palazzi connected with tailback Greg Tellish for the game-winning points.
In a game that featured nine lead changes, the two teams tied the Centennial Conference record for combined points scored in a game that they established in last season's 61-50 Gettysburg victory in which the Bullets closed the final 18 minutes on a 34-0 run. This year, the teams combined for 1,123 yards, with the Bullets holding a slim 569-554 advantage.
Delia turned in one of the top rushing performances in school history, piling up 244 yards – fifth-most in school history and the most by any player besides the program's all-time leading rusher Paul Smith '00 – and three touchdowns on 25 carries. He scored one of his touchdowns on an 83-yard run, and he also scored on a punt return touchdown for the second week in a row, this time from 66 yards out. Delia, who has now scored eight touchdowns in his last two games, finished with 310 all-purpose yards and four total touchdowns.
Palazzi threw for 430 yards and two touchdowns on 24-of-37 passing while rushing for two additional TDs. Ercole – who also caught a 32-yard touchdown pass with 2:03 left in regulation to send the game to overtime after a successful two-point conversion – finished with 152 yards and two touchdowns on five receptions while Mike Ritter added six catches for 103 yards. Tellish rushed for 115 yards and three touchdowns.
Junior Kody Smith passed for 183 yards and rushed for a career-high 82 yards and two touchdowns for the Bullets while freshman wing Freddy Caruso caught seven passes for 116 yards. Caruso also tossed a nine-yard halfback option touchdown pass.
It was the Delia and Tellish show early on, as the two combined for five of the first six touchdowns of the game. Delia scored on a 1-yard touchdown run on the game's opening drive, and Smith rambled in from 33 yards out to make it 14-7 midway through the opening quarter. Tellish then scored back-to-back TDs, giving the Crusaders a 20-14 advantage early in the second quarter.
On the first play from scrimmage on the ensuing drive Delia broke off his 83-yard run – the longest by a Bullet since an 85-yarder by Jamel Mutunga '11 against Franklin & Marshall in 2008 – to put Gettysburg up 21-20. Spenser Hotaling kicked a 30-yard field goal before Caruso connected with freshman Alec Pacelli on his TD pass to make it 27-23 in favor of the Bullets after a failed two-point conversion try with 4:54 left in the opening half.
Palazzi scored on a 1-yard run with 2:51 on the clock to give Susquehanna a 30-27 lead that would stand up as the halftime score. The Bullets had an excellent chance to answer before the end of the half, however, but were unable to convert back-to-back short field-goal attempts. Senior Rob Pennella had his 21-yarder blocked with 23 seconds left, but a Susquehanna defender fumbled after he had recovered the loose ball. Senior Tyler Fasanella fell on the second fumble, restoring possession for the Bullets at the Crusader-4.
Gettysburg was unable to take advantage, however, and four plays later Pennella missed a 19-yard field goal.
The Bullets outscored Susquehanna 21-7 to start the second half en route to their 11-point lead. Delia opened the scoring with his punt return, breaking tackles all the way downfield to make it 34-30 with 6:20 left in the third quarter. Palazzi answered with a 1-yard touchdown run before Smith scored again, this time on a 20-yard scramble as Gettysburg reclaimed the lead at 41-37 with 2:28 left in the third quarter.
Senior quarterback Kyle Whitmoyer scored on a 5-yard touchdown run with 9:56 remaining to give the Bullets their 48-37 lead before Hotaling knocked through a 23-yard field goal with 4:53 to go, making it a one-possession game. Susquehanna forced Gettysburg to go three-and-out on the ensuing drive before the Crusaders took over with 3:01 remaining and marched 73 yards on just six plays. Palazzi kept the chains moving on a third-and-10 with a 19-yard completion to Alex Patchin two plays before his 32-yard TD toss to Ercole. He found Patchin again for the game-tying two-point conversion.
After another Gettysburg three-and-out, the Crusaders found themselves at the Gettysburg-38 with less than a minute left after Palazzi hit tight end Matt Knouse for a 32-yard pickup. But junior linebacker Larry DelViscio thwarted the drive with an interception at the Bullet-24. A 12-yard return set the ball at the GC-36 with 49 seconds left, and the Bullets elected to run off the remainder of the clock by twice taking a knee.
Senior safety Joe Delaney paced the Bullet defense with 10 tackles, a forced fumble, an interception, and two pass breakups while DelViscio finished with eight stops. Jalon Scott led all players with 11 tackles for Susquehanna.


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"SUPERNATURAL" � (9:00-10:00 p.m. ET)
"Wishful Thinking" (TV-14, DLV) (HDTV)
A WISHING WELL THAT REALLY WORKS BRINGS CHAOS � Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean (Jensen Ackles) investigate a small town where the wishing well really works. A teddy bear comes to life, someone wins the lottery and the town geek gets a hot girlfriend. The brothers realize that while everyone is happy now, the end result will be disastrous. Robert Singer directed the episode written by Ben Edlund (#3T7508).


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PORTLAND — Video cameras are seemingly everywhere. Soon there'll even be one hanging from around the neck of a Maine black bear as it interacts with its cubs, forages for berries or perhaps makes its way into a backyard bird feeder.
In a study that begins this spring, Unity College students will trap up to five female bears and attach collars with GPS devices that will record their movements via satellite. One of the collars will be equipped with a video camera.
The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife already gathers data from dozens of radio-collared bears, some of which are fitted with GPS that collect information on the animals' travels. But this is the first time a video camera will be used to learn more about Maine's black bear population.
The camera will hang from the bottom of the collar, giving a bear's-eye view of the world, said George Matula, a wildlife biology professor who is leading the initiative in cooperation with the wildlife department.
The project will give dozens of students hands-on experience studying bears as well as provide data for the state, he said.
"We're trying to give students a chance to get involved in real-life experiences while accomplishing something that will be useful to the state," Matula said.
Maine has an estimated 31,000 black bears, the highest tally since their numbers began being methodically estimated in 1989.
The state wildlife department monitors the bear populations in areas in northern, north-central and eastern Maine.
For the Unity project, students will trap up to five bears, sedate them and attach the collars. The camera will be retrieved next winter while the bear is hibernating, then sent to the collar manufacturer, Lotek Wireless Inc., a Canadian company that makes monitoring devices for wildlife, Matula said.
Lotek will download the footage and send it to the school, where students will analyze it, Matula said. Because the camera can hold only about 20 hours of footage, Matula and others will have to program the camera in advance to try to capture the best footage in 10-second intervals.
The bears that are being targeted for the project live in towns in central Maine near Unity, where the college is located. The area hasn't traditionally had a lot of bears because it was mostly open farmland, but the bear population has increased in recent decades as farms have been replaced by forestland, Matula said.
One goal is to use the data collected by the GPS devices and the camera collar to determine whether the bears in the Unity region differ from bears in the other areas where they are monitored. The study will take a look at things such as the range of the bears and reproduction, survival and recruitment rates.
More than 50 students at Unity have signed up to work on different aspects of the project, Matula said.
The video footage will provide another tool to learn more about Maine's bear population, said Randy Cross, a wildlife biologist with the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife who has studied bears for more than 30 years.
Elsewhere, video cameras are in use on caribou, deer, and black, brown and polar bears, according to Lotek. Video footage on the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website from a camera worn by a brown bear in south-central Alaska shows a sow playing with her cub, a bear eating a beaver, a bear eating a moose and a bear in an icy lake.
The site also has a 13-minute video titled "A Bear's Eye View, A Day in the Life of A Bear."
Boston Celtics
Rozier leads the way as Celtics win fifth straight, 125-103 over Cavaliers
Local roundup: Hall-Dale boys basketball cruises to win over Richmond
Clutch plays late lead Winthrop boys basketball past Boothbay
Astronomers capture the moment a rock from a comet hits the moon during an eclipse
Religion and Values
Pope Francis: Fear of migration 'makes us crazy'


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While much of the focus in the offseason and preseason was on the negotiations for a long-term deal between the Ravens and quarterback Joe Flacco, cornerback Cary Williams also took a risk and declined a three-year, $15 million extension.
But Williams said he never viewed his decision as a risk.
"I just left it in God's hands," he said after Friday's practice. "At the end of the day, I knew that God had brought me this far, and all of that hard work and preparation was going to come into play, and I just continued to keep my head down, continued to do what I'm normally doing, and I felt success would be there. I never thought of it as a gamble on myself. I guess I gambled on God and whatever God's will was, I would go with that. I'm a very spiritual guy and for this situation to be the way that it is, it's not me. God is working through me and helping me get to this point. So I'm thankful for that opportunity because I know these opportunities only come so often for certain people and luckily for me, it's come this way. I don't want to squander this opportunity."
Williams may have priced himself out of the Ravens' budget. He tied free safety Ed Reed for the team lead in interceptions with four in the regular season and added two more in the playoffs, and the two players were the only ones on defense to start every game. Williams also posted 75 tackles and broke up 17 passes in the regular season.
Williams said he's not concerned with what the Ravens or any other team will offer in the upcoming offseason.
"All that stuff will play out when it plays out," he said. "Right now, I'm not focused on that. I feel like we're in the Super Bowl and that's the main thing. Right now, I'm a happy Raven and I want to be a happy Raven in the future, but that's one thing I'm really not worried about or dealing with right now. Right now, I'm focused on my team and on my best efforts this week, putting the best preparation in that I can. And then from there, we'll work on that. But I'm not worried about a contract, I'm not thinking about a contract or thinking about how much money I'm going to get. I'm focused on a ring."
Without saying whether he'd be willing to give the Ravens a hometown discount, Williams said he would prefer to remain with the organization that signed him in 2009 after the Tennessee Titans cut him.
"You don't get this type of locker room anywhere else," he said. "I've been on another team besides this, and the locker room wasn't as close-knit, wasn't a family atmosphere. We had a couple guys that were cool and things like that, but it's nothing like this. It's unparalleled, and for us to have great leadership in this locker room and a great coaching staff and a great front office, you don't want to leave a place like this because it's rare that you would find a place like this. And I've talked to several guys in the locker room – Anquan [Boldin] and some of the other guys who just came over, Vonta [Leach] and Jacoby Jones – those guys think this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be a Raven, and it's great for everybody."


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This week's prize is Smashbox's Halo Yellow Color Correcting Hydrating Powder, a yellow powder designed to tone down facial redness. It's also oil-, talc-, and paraben-free.
Here's how it works:
- This giveaway starts today and ends Sunday, June 20, at midnight.
- You can enter once per day. (If you enter more than once per day, only the first entry will be counted.)
- This giveaway is open to readers anywhere in the world.
- A winner will be selected at random from the valid entries.
- To enter, leave a comment on this post, and tell me a character from a book (any book), and what brand of makeup you imagine that character wearing.
- Winners will be contacted by email, so please use an email address you check (addresses will be hidden, and will not be used for any purpose other than contacting the winner).
Good luck!


text: The UFC 118 Penn vs. Edgar DVD 2 is a rematch you don't want to miss. The Aug. 28, 2010, Boston fight pits UFC lightweight champion Frankie ''The Answer'' Edgar against the man he took the belt from, Hawaiian superstar BJ Penn. The star-studded 118 ultimate UFC DVD also features multi-division world boxing champion James ''Lights Out'' Toney, who steps into the Octagon for the first time to face legendary Hall of Famer Randy ''The Natural'' Couture.


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PlayStation 3
James Bond 007: Blood Stone – An international conspiracy has placed the UK's most secretive bio-chemical project into deadly hands, and only Her Majesty's most lethal agent, James Bond, can unravel the mystery. To navigate through layers of corruption, you, as Bond, will embark on a global chase that will have you battling on land, sea and air through Athens, Istanbul, Monaco, and Bangkok. Nothing is what it seems as each adventure reveals a deeper and more sinister conspiracy.
First of the North Star: Ken's Rage – Sworn to protect the weak and innocent from malicious gangs roaming the post-apocalyptic planet, players use Ken's trademark moves to decimate enemies on his quest to find his long-lost love. Tearing through the scorched landscape, manga and action fans will pummel their way through dozens of enemies at once and crush obstacles in their path, using them against their foes.
Megamind: Ultimate Showdown (Also on PSP) – Just as Megamind has become our new Mega Hero, a sudden crime wave hits the city. The Doom Syndicate & their Doom Goons have emerged and are looking to take over! Only Megamind and his arsenal of gadgets can stop them! Now, in three unique game play experiences, players can be the ultimate Mega Hero!
Bakugan Battle Brawlers: Defenders of the Core (Also on PSP) – In Bakugan Battle Brawlers: Defenders of the Core, players will create a new hero and lead the brawlers on an epic adventure to save Earth's cities from Spectra and his Vexos minions.
Blood Drive – In Blood Drive, contestants must use their motorized death steeds of steel in a televised game show where drivers battle each other and hordes of revolting flesh eaters in an all-out fight to the death. Face undead frat boys, cops and strippers, each with their own special brand of death and devastation – and ways to die! While these rotting monsters wander the streets of a desert sin city craving sweet, succulent brains, your enemies have come equipped battle hardened armed vehicles, including heavily weaponized muscle cars, hot rods, and more.
Dragon Ball: Raging Blast 2 — The second game in this high-flying, fast-hitting, and intense versus battles series, Dragon Ball: Raging Blast 2 promises over 90 characters from the massively popular anime franchise. Dragon Ball Z fans can rest assured that the destructible environment, and character trademark attacks and transformations will be true to the series.
Get Fit With Mel-B — In Get Fit With Mel, the former Spice Girl will bring you real-time advice and feedback on several disciplines like dance fit, cardio, step, pump and tone and kickboxing. The game also delivers a personal nutritional program (six meals plans and 140 recipes) totally aligned to your fitness workout.
PlayStation Portable
God of War: Ghost of Sparta – Set in the realm of Greek mythology, God of War: Ghost of Sparta is a single-player game that allows players to take on the powerful role of Spartan warrior Kratos. This new adventure picks up after the first God of War concludes, telling the story of Kratos' ascension to power as the God of War. In his quest to rid himself of the nightmares that haunt him, Kratos must embark on a journey that will reveal the origins of lost worlds, and finally answer long-awaited questions about his dark past.
EyePet: Your Virtual Pet – EyePet on the PlayStation Portable uses the functionality of the camera peripheral to bring the cute little critter into your own world. Point the camera somewhere, slap down the included card and watch it interact with you in all kinds of surroundings. Take your EyePet to the park, train him in various activities on the bus or feed him at the restaurant with your own brand of virtual food.
Ys: The Oath in Felghana — Ys: The Oath in Felghana once again follows the adventures of friends Adol and Dogi who find themselves making an unannounced visit to Dogi's hometown of Redmont in the land of Felghana. Since his departure eight years earlier, Dogi finds himself returning home to find that things have changed dramatically, and not for the better.
Archer Maclean's Mercury & Mercury Meltdown: 2 Games in 1 – This double-pack of games combines both hit puzzlers created by industry veteran Archer MacLean. Included are the original Mercury and Mercury Meltdown.
No Heroes Allowed! – No Heroes Allowed! is the third in the acclaimed Badman franchise, a series of dungeon strategy games where you play the God of Destruction, summoned by the Evil Overlord Badman to dig a dungeon full of monsters to destroy the invading heroes, and help Badman conquer the known world!
PlayStation 2
Toy Story 3: The Video Game – Embracing the adored and inspired fun of the Toy Story franchise, Toy Story 3: The Video Game features a story mode that follows the Toy Story 3 film adventures in which Buzz, Woody and friends grapple with their uncertain future as Andy prepares to depart for college.
Pro Evolution Soccer 2011 – Central to the heart and soul of PES 2011 is the idea of freedom of play. This freedom invigorates the series with the most advanced set of gameplay improvements ever attempted by the Winning Eleven Production team, coupled with the greatest stride in new content.
PlayStation Network
God of War: Collection — These PlayStation 2 games are remastered and pack 60 frames-per-second action, 720p graphics, and PlayStation Network Trophy support. In God of War, players take on the role of Kratos, a Spartan warrior. Plagued by the nightmares of his past, the ash covered warrior would do anything to be free of his debt to the Gods and the memories that haunt him. In God of War II, Kratos sits atop his Olympus throne, as the new God of War – far more ruthless than Ares ever was. To end his continued torment, Kratos must journey to the far reaches of the earth and defeat untold horrors and alter that which no mortal, or god has ever changed his fate.
Hoard – Hoard is a fast-paced action game that promises addictive, thrilling action themed around dragons and their quest for treasure. The game gives players the chance to amass giant piles of gold by raiding medieval commerce, roasting knights with fire-breath, kidnapping princesses, scaring towns, and defeating powerful wizards.
PSone Classic
Virtual Pool 3 – Experience all physical action including friction, speed, collision, and roll to give your game of pool unmatched realism.
PlayStation minis
Breakquest – BreakQuest is a new concept break-out-style game, featuring vibrant graphics, sparkling visual effects, and funky sound. Enjoy 100 unique levels! All of them with their own colorful designs, crystal clear sound and elements behavior. Arkanoid fans must check this out. The game is specially adopted for the PSP (and PS3) wide-screen and AnalogStick for the best console experience.
[Editor's Note: The following dates are subject to change. Game details are gathered from Press Releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.]


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Student Support
Many people today are demonstrating that they have the experience and preparation to manage computers and software programs. So consider joining in this process of proving your skills by taking one of the many certification tests offered at City College, an approved testing site for many certification areas.
Testing Accommodations - Persons with documented disabilities may request accommodation.
At Montana State University Billings, students may earn credit through alternatives including challenge tests. Several options are available.
Certification Testing Services at City College
|ACT Residual (check testing schedule for availability)
|$35 (+$80 to CLEP)
|Compass (first test no charge to MSUB students)
|$35 (+$80 to Dantes)
|Pearson Vue
|School district Paraprofessional WorkKeys testing (a three-test series)
|$45 for series
|$20 each
Challenge exams such as College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) allow students to study for and "test out of" equivalent college-level courses. Learn which tests satisfy General Education requirements.Students interested in these methods of earning credit for specific college courses can pick up a CLEP or DANTES information sheet at the Library/Testing Center at City College.
ACE, NCCRS, Military Credit
Students may have already earned credit through work-site training or government-sponsored workshops or military experience. If students have certificates or other documentation which states that the American Council on Education (ACE) or the National College Credit Recommendation Service (NCCRS) assess that training, credit may be available for coursework for which there are equivalencies in the MSU Billings curriculum. Call Admissions & Records, at 657-1747, for questions about ACE & NCCRS equivalencies.
Military credit is assessed from the military transcript. Call 657-2216 for military credit evaluation.
Authorized Prometric Testing Center
Microsoft, A+, Novell, Cisco, J. D. Edwards and many other tests are delivered at City College at MSU Billings, which is an Authorized Prometric Testing Center. To take one of the tests, candidates may register via the web at www.2test.com. More information about these tests is available at www.prometric.com
Authorized Pearson Vue Testing Center
Provides computer-based testing solutions for information technology, academic, government, and professional testing programs. Candidates may register via the web at www.pearsonvue.com.


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Last night Rev and I took some alts to a guild raid that's trying to get itself established. I went along as a paladin healer and he brought his hunter.
This raid has had ups and downs. It had a more stable roster a month ago and now it's struggling. At this point there's basically 5-6 guildies who raid on their mains, coming on alts; one or two guildies who only run this raid; and then they fill in where they can get it.
Last night, we had a role swap – one of the tanks really wanted to heal instead, and the raid leader, who had been one of the healers, agreed to bring her new tank. So we had two people in roles they don't usually do. But we also had one long term tank, and all three of us healers heal on our mains in other raids.
We were short three dps though so the raid leader went to trade and picked us up two mages (making a total of three) and a shaman. Then we got started.
When Magmaw took a few tries I knew it was going to be a long night. First we had to teach the new tank how to do it. Even when you've done Magmaw dozens of times as a healer or dps, learning how to tank him takes trial and error. Then we had people standing in the wrong place. After one bad try where we got three pillars of flame right by the raid, the pugged shaman started saying we should change our strategy to the everyone stay out at range strategy. Unfortunately, there were a couple problems. First, he was the one who had dropped the pillars in the wrong place by not standing in melee. Second, he wasn't in Vent. He'd insisted he knew the fight and could manage without it, and we'd agreed to let him try. Third, this wasn't his raid and here he was firmly stating that we needed to change our strategy.
And his final straw came when, as the raid leader was inspecting him and realizing he had no gems and enchants, he started calling out the frost mage for not having redeployed his pet after the wipe yet.
We removed him, and just then a guildie showed up, an enhancement shaman who had run with us before. She's a good player and I felt good about her coming.
We finally killed Magmaw then moved over to Omnitron. Same thing. It took some learning. The healer team was not communicating and I feel like our heals were not spread around quite right. We had me on a paladin, a druid, and a holy priest. I was doing way too much raid healing and letting tanks drop. But when I switched to just tank healing it seemed like the raid died.
One attempt we got to under 2% before the last person died. So exasperating! But we healers just had gone out of mana. That attempt took over 11 minutes. The dps was just not there… Reversion was pulling something like 17k and was at least 4.5k higher than anyone else there.
And there were other issues. One of our pugged mages could not seem to switch targets; I had to cleanse her every time Toxitron was up because she didn't switch fast enough. People didn't run away from slimes. People didn't run away when they had Lightning Conductor. Yes, guild members and myself were making mistakes but the puggers were way worse than we were. It felt to me like most of our mistakes – mine and my guildies – were due to knowing the fight but not being on our main. Whereas the puggers just didn't know the fight.
On the other hand, even those who know the fights don't always know every bit. One of my guildies whispered me saying that she wished the green cloud wouldn't get dropped on the mana puddle all the time. I asked if she knew that the green cloud doesn't CAUSE damage, it just increases damage taken. She said no, she always ran away right away because her GTFO addon was yelling at her.
I bit my tongue. That's the number one reason I won't use an addon like GTFO. It tries to substitute for knowing the mechanics of the fight with a simple "get out of this" when there's way more to it than that. There are many times in Omnitron where you can quite safely stand in that green cloud. And many times when you can't. Knowing the difference is really key.
Anyway, we finally killed them, went downstairs, and pulled Maloriak. We executed the fight perfectly, stacked up, spread out, killed adds, interrupted stuff. And we hit the enrage timer with 15% still to go on the boss. Ouch.
One of the dps – one of the pugged mages – wanted to try again even after we explained that this wasn't happening. I'm not sure how he expected to pull that much more dps out. But it was quitting time anyway and most of us could do the math.
Anyway the whole thing confirmed to me that A. I really really like my Fri/Sat raid group. They're a great group of people, fast learners, and actually listen. And B. I would rather bring someone's alt, who knows the fight but maybe isn't great with the class, than someone who doesn't know the fight at all.


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KCRW Brand Sizzle Reel from KCRW on Vimeo.
We are human inspiration.
KCRW creates and curates a unique mix of content centered around music discovery, NPR news, cultural exploration and informed public affairs. KCRW is driven by the spirit of Los Angeles and delivers in innovative ways -- on the radio, digitally and in person -- to diverse, curious communities around the corner and around the world. A community service of Santa Monica College, KCRW can be found on the air in Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Ventura, Mojave, Palm Springs, and via five KCRW-developed smartphone apps and online at KCRW.com.
World-renowned for its music programming, KCRW DJs are given one directive: "play what you love." Many established and emerging artists have made their U.S. live performance debut on flagship music program Morning Becomes Eclectic hosted by music director Jason Bentley, including Beck, Adele, Massive Attack, Gotye, Sigur Ros, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes, Coldplay, among dozens of others.
Over 20 years of audio and video in-studio performance archives are available on KCRW.com and through the KCRW Radio smartphone app. Listeners can also access music shows on-demand, as well as Eclectic24, KCRW's all music digital channel featuring original programming from the station's DJs back-to-back, 24 hours a day. KCRW also offers "Today's Top Tune," a free one-day exclusive downloadable song available daily.
News & Culture
KCRW creates culturally responsive programming that speaks to the nuanced interests and needs of the Southern California community. Over 100 weekly hours of original programming features nationally syndicated news and culture shows To The Point with Warren Olney (co-production with PRI), The Treatment with Elvis Mitchell, Bookworm with Michael Silverblatt, political week in review show Left, Right & Center, and The Business hosted by Kim Masters; in addition to Los Angeles-focused shows such as Good Food with Evan Kleiman, DnA: Design & Architecture with Frances Anderton, Art Talk with Edward Goldman and Hunter Dohojowska-Philp, among others.
As Southern California's flagship NPR affiliate, KCRW airs local editions of NPR's popular morning newsmagazine Morning Edition and afternoon news show All Things Considered. KCRW also broadcasts American Public Media's daily business and economy program Marketplace, and PRI's global news program The World.
Listeners can access past programs on-demand and the News24 digital channel at KCRW.com and through the KCRW Radio smartphone app.
KCRW has a history of bringing unique live experiences to Southern California and around the country -- whether concerts with musical talent, or conversations between our hosts and the world's leading thinkers and creators.
Music events include KCRW's World Festival at the Hollywood Bowl, now in its 16th season; the annual KCRW-produced "Summer Nights," a free, all ages concert series throughout Los Angeles; "KCRW Presents," where the station promotes its favorite bands' live performances in Southern California, San Francisco, New York, and other major cities; and live broadcasts and DJ performances from cultural events such as Sundance Film Festival, SXSW, and Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, among others.
Cultural events include KCRW's UpClose Series, live conversations between KCRW hosts and leading figures in film, art, politics, literature and pop culture; First Take, a screening series hosted by Matt Holzman and showcasing indie and foreign films; the annual Good Food Pie Contest; and ongoing events hosted with leading cultural institutions, such as Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), Annenberg Space for Photography, and others.
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No other milestone provides a snapshot of a child's life like the first day of school. It's a tangible reflection of the child moving away from the parent and into the adult he or she will become.
Unlike graduation, where success is celebrated and emotions are welcomed, starting a new school requires a tougher face. Before the little fish can swim in the big pond, there is work to be done and decisions to be made: what to bring to school, how to get there and who will become a friend.
Evan Fuoss, Amanda Clark and Hannah Wilson can feel the big day inching closer. In mid-August, Evan will start kindergarten in Oak Park, Amanda will start high school in Chicago and Hannah will fly to Ithaca, N.Y., to begin orientation at Cornell University.
Experts say personality is the biggest predictor of whether the first day of school will be met with glee or angst.
Yet there are ways to prepare the child, whether they are anxious, confident or a mixture of the two.
We talked to the three students and their mothers preparing for that first day and then asked experts to weigh in on what to expect and how to make that first day go a little smoother.
The kindergartner
Even at 5-1/2, Evan Fuoss, of Oak Park, knows he starts Mann Elementary School on Aug. 24. The planning and preparation are pretty much in mom's hands, but he's already thinking about what he'll bring: his favorite books (in case he gets bored), a pencil and …
"And maybe if my mom could make a photo of my mom and dad in case I got lonely, then I would need to pack that too," Evan said.
"You can have that, sweetie," said his mother, Ann Alexander. "Just like I have photos of you when I think about you."
It's a little after 7 p.m. and Evan has just gotten home from a full day of play in day care. He has emptied his favorite "not-story books" about space, dinosaurs and wolves onto the coffee table. An adorable jumble of stop-and-go emotions, he is jumping between the arm of the couch and his mother's lap, sometimes kicking and sometimes cuddling.
Alexander expects her son's positive experience in day care to ease the transition into kindergarten. He has been leaving home four days a week since he was 2 years old, and has made great friends in his class.
Experts say: Graduated exposure is a great defense against the fear of the first day, according to Bernadette Lecza, a cognitive behavioral therapist at Yale Parenting Center. She tells parents of anxious children to prepare ahead of time by visiting the bus stop, getting a sense of how long they'll be riding the bus and playing on the school playground.
Of course, not all children need that level of care. Lecza tells parents that they know their children best and they should take note of behavioral changes that may be masking anxiety.
Parents can tell "if they're tearier than usual, acting out, less cooperative or less patient," Lecza said.
Mom says: Evan recently started asking, "What if I don't have any friends in kindergarten?" Alexander knows her son's best friends are going to kindergarten at different schools, so she doesn't call his question silly. Instead she tells him that his fear is real and that the other children are probably feeling the same way.
About a month before the big day, Alexander started noticing her own reaction to Evan starting kindergarten. She and Evan's dad will still be dropping him off and picking him up on the way to and from their jobs in the city. But kindergarten is the start of formal education, which makes it a major milestone no matter what has happened before.
"It's the awareness of the passing of time," Alexander said. "I mean, he was a baby, and I blinked, and he's in kindergarten. I'll blink again, and he'll be in sixth grade. And so it goes."
The high school freshman
Amanda Clark of Lakeview finished eighth grade at Sacred Heart School at the top of the heap. She was a star on the soccer and basketball teams, a straight-A student and a volunteer at a local day camp for the hearing-impaired and deaf.
She had her pick of high schools — her mother narrowed it to three based on their proximity to home — and Amanda chose St. Ignatius College Prep. The school has small class sizes, plenty of faces she'll recognize and, the deciding factor, a greater chance for playing time on the soccer field and basketball court.
But just because Amanda is transitioning from one Catholic school to another doesn't mean high school won't bring unfamiliar experiences. She'll be navigating public transit by herself, learning new subjects like physics and Spanish, and adjusting to a new distraction in the classroom: boys.
"It's going to be a different experience for me because I haven't been in a mixed class since kindergarten," Amanda said. "But there's boys in my (summer school) class, and it's not that bad because they're all smart, I guess. And you don't feel extra smart if you say something smart."
Experts say: Lecza tells parents of teenagers that the greatest obstacles can and should be addressed long before the first day of high school. Those obstacles usually fall into two categories: social and academic.
"If you anticipate problems with academics, this could be the time to start working on organizational skills," Lecza said.
If a child is making bad social decisions, parents should remember to "guide and lead, not restrict and punish."
"Parents have a temptation to get rigid and make rules about who (their children) can hang out with," Lecza said. "They should just help guide and lead new avenues to different friends."
Mom says: Linda Clark said she has never had to worry about Amanda's grades or friends. She can count on Amanda to come straight home after practice and start her homework right away. But that doesn't mean she isn't heavily involved in Amanda's life.
Three weeks before the big day, Amanda is sitting at the dining room table showing her mother her class schedule — which does not repeat until the ninth day. Clark suggests that she keep several copies in every notebook.
It has also been decided that Amanda will communicate with her parents through each step of her journey on the CTA.
"The big thing is public transit," Clark said. "She'll try to find someone to ride home with, but there won't always be someone. She'll text dad to say she's close to his work, then maybe call mom to say that she should meet at Roosevelt."
The college freshman
Hannah Wilson of Wilmette has been zipping from Taste of Chicago to Pitchfork Music Festival to Six Flags Great America amusement park with her closest friends from New Trier High School, soaking up the precious moments of her last summer at home.
Hannah may love the comforts of home, but she is not a homebody. She chose to go to school on the East Coast to follow her passion for the sport of crew. Recruited by four schools, she chose Cornell because "it felt right."
She's confident she'll build new relationships with time, but expects the first few weeks (not just the first day) to be lonely. None of her best friends is going to school near her, but she likes it that way.
"I don't think you would experience college to the fullest," Hannah said. "It's just that you would be so comfortable and part of it is feeling uncomfortable."
Experts say: It's important to recognize how your child's personality type will adapt to leaving home and starting college. Alan Kazdin, director of the Yale Parenting Center, said a child's tendency to be attached to a parent or fearful of change is biological and obvious to the parent from a very young age. Parents of children with what Kazdin called "inhibited temperaments" should be ready to offer concrete solutions to fears rather than feeding them.
"If your child has been more sensitive throughout life, hold back on the kind of preparation that emphasizes worry," Kazdin said. "Say, 'When you get there, why don't you see if you can have lunch with your suite mates?' rather than, 'You're going to be alone at meals.'"
Mom says: Hannah is the middle child in a very close-knit, emotionally open family. Both mom and dad will fly to Ithaca to move Hannah into Cornell.
"Just thinking about it right now, I could start crying," Elissa Morgante said. "There's no chance of not sharing how upset I'll be. But I'm so incredibly happy for her."
Morgante said Hannah has always been very grounded and mature. She's not worried about her meeting new friends or remembering to call home, but she knows their relationship is about to change.
"That's the biggest challenge for parents. If you've had a close relationship and you realize that that relationship is going to change. It won't necessarily be worse or better, but it will be different," Morgante said. "She's no longer under my wing."


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Superlift ProROCK Series FinalePosted in Events on February 1, 2005
The 2004 Superlift ProROCK Series came to a close at the Johnson Valley OHV area in Lucerne Valley, California. The four-event series positioned competitors on demanding rock courses in California, New Mexico, and Utah before culminating in the finale at Couger Buttes, which revealed Mitch Guthrie, Joachim Schwiesow, and Jeff Mello as the 2004 ProROCK class champions.
A Sports in the Rough production, the Superlift ProROCK series attracted scads of spectators to the Couger Buttes area, which always proves to be a crowd favorite. With one impossible obstacle after another, the competitors persevered and displayed multiple feats of gravity to the crowd's delight. Breakage was ample, as were disappointments, as the rockcrawlers fought for the ProROCK crown. Superlift served as the title sponsor, with additional support from Drivetrain Direct, JP Offroad, Alcoa, KC HiLites, Black Diamond, 4 Wheel Parts Wholesalers, Rockcrusher Diffs, CTM, Ramsey Winch, All-Pro Off Road, and Tom Wood's Custom Drive Shafts. For information about the 2005 ProROCK series, contact www.sportsinthe rough.com.
Trophy Class
(1) Campbell
(2) Nelson
(3) Guthrie
(4) Bundrant
(5) McClure
(6) Durham
(7) Papola
(8) Little
Super Stock Class
(1) Schwiesow
(2) Sisson
(3) Bulloch
(4) Brown
(5) Zimmerschmied
JP Offroad Modified Stock
(1) Everding
(2) Waggoner
(3) Mello
(4) Nesselhuf
(5) Crook
(6) Laurie
Trophy Class
(1) Guthrie
(2) Campbell
(3) Bundrant
Super Stock Class
(1) Schwiesow
(2) Bulloch
(3) Sisson
JP Offroad Modified Stock Class
(1) Mello
(2) Waggoner
(3) Everding