#Santa Clara Summer Camp

[silicon-valley11]

A Fun-Filled Adventure for Kids At Santa Clara Summer Camp

Santa Clara summer camps provide a wide range of engaging experiences that allow kids to discover new passions, hone skills, and create enduring memories. These camps provide a variety of activities that suit different age groups and interests, ranging from sports and arts to science and technology, guaranteeing a positive summer experience for every participant.

Variety of Program Options

The variety of programming offered at Santa Clara summer camp is one of its most notable qualities. There are camps for sports fans that focus on well-liked sports including basketball, tennis, swimming, and soccer. These camps emphasize collaboration, discipline, and healthy living in addition to enhancing physical abilities. Professional trainers and coaches make sure kids get the best guidance and support possible.

Santa Clara has a lot of arts camps for youngsters who have artistic tendencies, where they may learn about theater, dance, music, painting, and sketching. These courses are intended to encourage self-expression and creativity, giving young artists a safe space to develop their skills. Through a variety of projects, skilled artists and educators mentor the campers, fostering skill development and self-assurance.

Another well-liked choice is science and technology camps, particularly in the tech-savvy area of Silicon Valley. Through practical exercises and experiments, these courses educate kids to the marvels of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). These programs foster a love of study and creativity in subjects ranging from robotics and coding to environmental science and space exploration. Campers frequently get the opportunity to collaborate with knowledgeable instructors and business executives on engaging projects, such building their own robots or making basic video games.

Developing Friendships and Social Skills

Beyond the particular activities, Santa Clara summer camps are extremely important for assisting kids in gaining critical social skills. Through engaging with their peers in a safe and enjoyable setting, campers acquire valuable life skills including empathy, teamwork, and respect. Children are encouraged to collaborate, share ideas, and support one another throughout camp activities, which can result in lifelong friendships.

A lot of camps also place a strong emphasis on developing character via leadership and self-improvement exercises. Frequently assigned tasks and chances to spearhead team endeavors or events, campers cultivate a feeling of responsibility and self-assurance. With the assurance that they are in a caring and safe setting, this encouraging environment encourages kids to attempt new activities and venture beyond of their comfort zones.

Emphasis on Health and Wellbeing

Santa Clara summer camps place a high priority on its participants' physical health and fitness in addition to their intellectual and social advantages. Sports, physical games, and outdoor activities are all essential components of camp life, keeping kids occupied and active. A variety of well-balanced meals and snacks are frequently offered, with a focus on wholesome selections that sustain campers' energy levels all day.

Many camps include mindfulness and relaxation exercises like yoga or meditation in their daily schedules. These exercises enhance children's ability to focus, regulate stress, and cultivate inner serenity, all of which are beneficial to their general wellbeing.

Selecting the Appropriate Camp

Choosing the best summer camp in Santa Clara may be both enjoyable and difficult given the abundance of possibilities. While selecting a camp, parents want to take into account their child's hobbies, strengths, and potential growth areas. It's also crucial to look at the camp's credentials, which include the staff's credentials, the safety precautions used, and the program's general tenets. In the end, Silicon Valley Summer Camps provide an exciting blend of education, exploration, and personal development. They provide kids a priceless chance to discover new things, form deep connections, and make priceless experiences that they will love forever. There is a camp in Santa Clara that is prepared to fire your child's enthusiasm and provide an incredibly memorable summer, regardless of their aspirations—whether they are future scientists, artists, or athletes

[checkthreetimes]

𝗦𝘁𝗲𝘃𝗲 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗹 — 𝗔 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗯𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝘀𝗵 𝗠𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗼 𝗠𝗮𝗱𝗲 𝗨𝘀 𝗔𝗹𝗹 𝗕𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀

The world of rock music has lost one of its brightest stars. Steve Harwell, the lead singer and co-founder of Smash Mouth, passed away on Monday, September 4, 2023, at his home in Boise, Idaho. He was 56 years old. His manager confirmed that he died of liver failure, a condition that he had been battling for a long time. Harwell was not only a talented singer, but also a pop culture icon. He was famous for his distinctive voice and charismatic personality, as well as his hit songs such as "All Star" and "I'm a Believer". He had an amazing career in the music industry, spanning over three decades and selling over 10 million albums worldwide with his band. He also had a colorful life, marked by his passion for music.

He was born on January 9, 1967, in Santa Clara, California. He grew up in San Jose, where he developed an interest in rap music and joined a group called F.O.S. (Freedom of Speech). He later switched to rock music and formed Smash Mouth with his friend Kevin Coleman, along with Greg Camp and Paul De Lisle. Harwell was influenced by various artists, such as Elvis Presley, The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and The Clash.

Harwell and his bandmates started their career in 1994, playing at local venues and festivals. They caught the attention of a radio station that played their demo songs, which led to a record deal with Interscope Records. Their debut album, Fush Yu Mang , was released in 1997 and featured their first hit single, "Walkin' on the Sun", which reached number one on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart and number two on the Hot 100 chart.

Their second album, Astro Lounge , was released in 1999 and became their most successful album to date. It contained their signature song, "All Star", which topped the charts in several countries and became a pop culture phenomenon. The song was featured in the soundtrack of the animated film Shrek , as well as other movies and TV shows. It also earned them a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group. Another popular song from the album was "I'm a Believer", a cover of The Monkees' classic song, which also appeared in Shrek .

Smash Mouth continued to release more albums in the 2000s and 2010s, such as Get the Picture? , The Gift of Rock , Summer Girl , Magic , and Rise and Shine . They experimented with different genres and styles, such as ska punk, reggae, country, and disco. They also collaborated with other artists, such as Baha Men, Eddie Money, J.D. McPherson, and Caravan Palace. Harwell also pursued a solo career, releasing two songs for the animated film Pororo: The Racing Adventure in 2013.

Harwell received many accolades and achievements for his music career. He won several awards from MTV, Billboard , Teen Choice , ASCAP , BMI , and others. He also performed at various events and venues around the world, such as the Super Bowl XXXVII halftime show, the World Series , the Olympic Games , Disneyland , and Carnegie Hall . He also appeared on several TV shows and movies, such as The Surreal Life , Rat Race , American Idol , Dancing with the Stars , Family Guy , Kim Possible , Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated , and SpongeBob SquarePants .

He died on September 4, 2023, after being in hospice care for final stage chronic liver failure. He is survived by his wife Michelle Laroque Harwell.

Harwell will be remembered as one of the most influential singers of his generation.

[sa7abnews]

49ers’ Shanahan on Brandon Aiyuk trade rumors: ‘Nothing has changed’

New Post has been published on https://sa7ab.info/2024/08/06/49ers-shanahan-on-brandon-aiyuk-trade-rumors-nothing-has-changed/

49ers’ Shanahan on Brandon Aiyuk trade rumors: ‘Nothing has changed’

SANTA CLARA — As trade rumors engulf Brandon Aiyuk’s idling status with the 49ers, coach Kyle Shanahan said Tuesday that “nothing has changed.” Defensive end Nick Bosa, a year removed from his own contract battle with the 49ers, called such negotiations “brutal,” but then expressed confidence “it will get done” between the 49ers and Aiyuk. The Pittsburgh Steelers re-emerged as a potential trade partner after talks stalled Monday night, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported after the 49ers’ 1 1/2-hour practice. Asked if he expects the situation to be resolved soon, Shanahan said: “No. You always want it to be, badly. This stuff takes time. Every day I hope it gets resolved. Hopefully it will get resolved sooner than later.” Aiyuk, as he has done throughout this camp, briefly watched practice from afar. General manager John Lynch observed all of it on the field and walked off afterward with coach Kyle Shanahan, who then headed for his regularly scheduled press conference. “I’m not going to get into specifics with offers or trades,” Shanahan added. “A lot (of news) was out yesterday but the situation we’re in with Brandon, nothing has changed.” The 49ers had agreed to trade proposals by two teams, the Cleveland Browns and the New England Patriots, as reported Monday night by NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco. Aiyuk presumably gets to have a say on whether any deal progresses, conceivably with the lucrative contract extension he has anxiously sought from the 49ers for six months — and counting. The 49ers have granted Aiyuk permission to speak with other teams, and although Shanahan said he spoke with him earlier in camp about his plight, any business talk runs between Lynch and Aiyuk’s agent. Could Aiyuk still secure a long-term deal with the 49ers? “There’s a scenario with everything, so I wouldn’t rule anything out,” Shanahan added. “Brandon is a great player, so it’s real hard when you lose a great player. We have to look into everything and understand the situation we’re in. It takes time.” Shanahan quipped that it would take only 2 1/2 days to bring a new receiver up to speed in the offense if one is acquired in return via trade. Then he noted that experience would play a factor. For example, the Cleveland Browns’ Amari Cooper might integrate quicker as he enters his 10th season. Ricky Pearsall, the 49ers’ first-round draft pick, was pulled out of Tuesday’s practice after aggravating a shoulder injury tracing to the spring, Shanahan added.  Other receivers injured this camp include Jacob Cowing (hamstring; returned Tuesday) and Danny Gray (shoulder). “Even though Brandon is dealing with that (contract) right now, he’s still around. He’s in the meeting rooms and very active,” wide receivers coach Leonard Hankerson said. “… He’s been good. He’s been active and awesome.” Deebo Samuel and Jauan Jennings have been the go-to targets, both of whom are on their second contracts, something Aiyuk is looking to sign either with the 49ers or elsewhere. Related Articles

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49ers’ tackles adapting without Trent Williams — and against Nick Bosa

Bosa’s second contract came a year ago and made him the league’s highest-paid non-quarterback. He said Tuesday he had “a few moments” last summer wondering if he might get dealt amid his training camp holdout. He signed just two days before the season opener. Related Articles

San Francisco 49ers |

Inman: 49ers’ 53-man roster projection before preseason opener

San Francisco 49ers |

Kurtenbach: The 49ers finally have a viable option to resolve the Brandon Aiyuk contract drama

San Francisco 49ers |

49ers making plans at linebacker without Dre Greenlaw

San Francisco 49ers |

49ers camp: Will Brock Purdy work on improv skills in preseason?

San Francisco 49ers |

49ers’ tackles adapting without Trent Williams — and against Nick Bosa

“As it got closer and closer (to the opener), it gets pretty dicey,” Bosa said. “But I definitely didn’t want to be traded. It’s a good place to be. I’m very thankful and grateful to be paid and here, because there are not many organizations as good as this one.” Aiyuk is slated to play this season on the fifth-year option of his rookie contract, with a $14.1 million salary that is at least half the market rate for a No. 1-caliber receiver. The 49ers offense has flourished in recent years and Aiyuk’s back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons illustrate what a reliable target he’s become for third-year quarterback Brock Purdy. When Bosa was asked if he won his contract staredown with the 49ers, he replied: “I’m not going to comment but they are tough.” McCAFFREY DINGED UP? Running back Christian McCaffrey, the NFL’s reigning rushing champion, has a calf strain that will keep him out of the preseason and out of practice the next few weeks. Hamstring strains have sidelined Elijah Mitchell and Isaac Guerendo, so to counter the backfield’s sudden attrition, Matt Breida re-signed and practiced Tuesday. Breida played for the 49ers from 2017-19.

[andrewhunt1155]

The Wildlife and Natural Beauty of Gilroy, California.

Nestled in the southern part of Santa Clara County, Gilroy, California, is a gem often overshadowed by the bustling tech-centric cities of Silicon Valley. Known primarily for its annual Garlic Festival, Gilroy offers far more than its famous aromatic bulb. It is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting a rich tapestry of wildlife and stunning natural landscapes that enchant visitors and locals alike. From sprawling parks and lush hiking trails to diverse ecosystems teeming with wildlife, Gilroy, California is a sanctuary of natural beauty waiting to be explored.

A Tapestry of Diverse Ecosystems

Gilroy's unique geographical position at the southern edge of the Santa Clara Valley, bordered by the Santa Cruz Mountains to the west and the Diablo Range to the east, creates a variety of ecosystems. This diversity supports an array of flora and fauna, making Gilroy an ecological treasure.

One of the most prominent natural attractions is the Henry W. Coe State Park. As the largest state park in northern California, it spans over 87,000 acres of wild, rugged terrain. The park's diverse ecosystems range from oak woodlands and chaparral to riparian habitats along its creeks. Hikers and nature lovers can explore its extensive network of trails, encountering a multitude of wildlife, including black-tailed deer, wild turkeys, bobcats, and even the elusive mountain lion. Bird watchers can delight in spotting golden eagles, red-tailed hawks, and a variety of songbirds.

Coyote Lake-Harvey Bear Ranch County Park

Another jewel in Gilroy's crown is the Coyote Lake-Harvey Bear Ranch County Park. This expansive park offers over 6,695 acres of rolling hills, oak savannas, and a picturesque lake. The park is a favorite destination for camping, fishing, boating, and horseback riding. The lake itself is home to various fish species such as bass, bluegill, and catfish, attracting anglers year-round.

The park's trails are frequented by hikers and mountain bikers who can experience the tranquility of the area while possibly encountering wildlife like wild boars, coyotes, and numerous bird species. The park's diverse habitats support a healthy population of amphibians and reptiles, including the California newt and western fence lizard.

Uvas Canyon County Park

Uvas Canyon County Park, located on the eastern side of the Santa Cruz Mountains, is renowned for its lush, forested environment and stunning waterfalls. The park's cool, shaded trails are particularly inviting during the hot summer months. The cascading waterfalls, such as Upper Falls and Basin Falls, are the highlights of the park, providing serene spots for reflection and photography.

The park's creekside habitats support a variety of wildlife, including raccoons, skunks, and gray foxes. The rich plant life, from ferns and mosses to towering redwoods and sycamores, creates a verdant haven that is a stark contrast to the dry chaparral found in other parts of Gilroy.

The Agricultural Landscape

Beyond its parks and wild spaces, Gilroy's agricultural heritage also contributes to its natural beauty. The fertile soil and Mediterranean climate make it an ideal location for farming. Garlic fields, vineyards, and orchards form a picturesque patchwork across the landscape. The sight of blooming garlic fields in the summer or grapevines heavy with fruit in the fall adds a rustic charm to the region.

Local farms often open their doors to visitors, offering farm tours, wine tastings, and U-pick fruit opportunities. This agricultural interaction not only enhances the appreciation of the land but also underscores the symbiotic relationship between nature and community in Gilroy.

Preservation and Conservation Efforts

The natural beauty of Gilroy is not just a result of its favorable geography; it is also the product of concerted preservation and conservation efforts. Organizations such as the Open Space Authority and local government initiatives have been instrumental in protecting the area's natural habitats from overdevelopment. These efforts ensure that future generations can enjoy the same pristine landscapes and rich biodiversity that current residents and visitors do.

Educational programs and community outreach are also vital components of these conservation efforts. Local schools and community groups often participate in wildlife preservation projects, habitat restoration activities, and environmental education programs. These initiatives foster a sense of stewardship and responsibility towards the environment among the younger generation.

Conclusion

Gilroy, California, is much more than the "Garlic Capital of the World." It is a testament to the natural beauty and ecological diversity that thrive in the heart of the Silicon Valley region. From the expansive trails of Henry W. Coe State Park and the serene waters of Coyote Lake to the cascading waterfalls of Uvas Canyon, Gilroy's landscapes offer endless opportunities for exploration and appreciation of the natural world.

The city's commitment to preserving its natural habitats ensures that Gilroy remains a sanctuary for wildlife and a haven for those seeking respite from the urban hustle. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, a passionate bird watcher, or simply someone who enjoys the tranquility of nature, Gilroy's wildlife and natural beauty provide a rich, immersive experience that celebrates the splendor of the great outdoors.

[beautybanned]

damian. • bodyclaim. • headcanons. • isms. • threads.

BASIC INFO

full name — Damian Sanchez age — thirty-five (july 26) gender — cis male, (he/ him/ his pronouns) orientation — bisexual (tho struggling on the men side) occupation — grifter, thief, con artist, prostitute deity connection — aphrodite  peacock name — danger weapon/ armor — tba clothing style / armor — fitting, tight, show-off-y

PHYSICAL INFO

face claim — Josh Segarra hair — brown / eyes — brown height — five foot & eleven inches build — beefy babe is beefy - check me scars — n/a tattoos — n/a piercings — n/a special characteristics — he's quiet and grumpy when he doesn't get to throw punches for a while.  sexual preference— verse switch

PERSONALITY

alignment — neutral evil positive traits — protective, loyal, strong-willed negative traits — loner, selfish, aggressive (on occasion) hobbies — cars, working out, partying

MEDICAL INFO

mental — n/a physical — beefy beefcake phobias — n/a eyesight — 18/20 although avrae tends to disagree dominant hand — right hand drug use — sometimes alcohol use — ehhh ye diet — healthy, he's gotta stay beefy and fit after all. fck fats and fast food

BACKGROUND

birthplace — santa clara, cuba parents — Anna Maria Sanchez (step-mother) & Tomaso Sanchez (father) & Aphrodite (biological mother) siblings — 3 older sisters (all half siblings though) pets — scrapo (dog, lives with his mom) education — high school graduate notable skills — disciplined, stealthy, quick with his hands & charming when he wants to be

BIO

Born the first son in the Sanchez family, he was a mere week old when his parents married - Anna knew he wasn't hers and yet she accepted him like her own. They left Cuba when Damian was seven and came to the US in the hopes of finding a better life in the country of endless possibilities. Chasing the American Dream, both his parents did their best to adapt as quickly as they were able, which included raising Damian to bi-lingual, at least since their arrival. He struggled with English at first, but made steady progress nonetheless and school probably did its part in that. He showed his powers early.. but they didn't ever really affect him, so he'd spend a few summers in Camp Halfblood, but ... not as religiously as it might've been expected from a Demigod.

Growing up with three older sisters... wasn't always easy. He was teased in school, teased at home, but grew up with a semi-healthy confidence nonetheless - although one could say it took him a while to develop it. Being considered exceptionally pretty for a guy surely helped with that, because he was also a typical jock+sports guy, so football was a must in highschool. And when he dashed past his enemies, all those who spread rumors about him held their breaths.

For a while at least.

Damian married young, because he and his girlfriend accidentally had a child, but he never quite .. felt himself a father. He didn't want to be. He'd had no choice, but to accept his fate - he couldn't just abandon her, could he? His parents would have his head, so Damian stayed and he found a job to care for his family, but he never quite found contentment in his life. Satisfaction. So, he began to drink, because how else could he relax after a long day of work, right?

It wasn't like he secretly enjoyed the attention he got when he stepped into bars. The drinks sent his way, the smiles and the waves - by all genders alike and he didn't even need to use his powers. He ..rarely did anyway. How easy it was to ... get what he desires off them. Almost too easy. It was wrong, so he didn't. At least .. not a lot. Not until he met a man at one of the bars he frequented for free drinks. You could do so much better. Aren't you tired of being nothing?

He was. He was. From drinks to purses, to hearts, to bank accounts - nobody and nothing was safe from him anymore. The new game plan? Go for the weakest links; for the older ones, the desperate ones. Play boytoy for a few weeks and no older woman (or man) will be able to deny you happiness. It worked.

At least until Damian fell for one of them. A man. Straight as an arrow - he thought, Damian lost his heart to his last victim. Pressured by his partner, he went through with it despite his heart telling him no and ruined everything. Unlike the others, this one didn't shy away from involving law enforcement and Damian... had to run.

Months of cat and mouse, of trying to figure out who he even was, of trying to understand his heart, make up for past sins and reconnect with his love, but all tries were rebuked, denied and his heart would bear the heaviest fate for it.

Where better to find safety than in a Camp nobody knew existed?

[101now]

49ers' Kris Kocurek lights up practices, turns around d-line careers

SANTA CLARA — When the 49ers’ offseason program concludes to start summer break, coach Kyle Shanahan urges his players to stay ready during their 40 days away before training camp. Don’t get out of shape. Show up with a clear head, prepared to hit the ground running. As for the coaches, not so much. Shanahan loves to get away and as he puts it, “do the things we don’t want the players to do.” Try…

[santaclaralocalnews]

One of the hidden gems of the summer curriculum in the Santa Clara Unified School District (SCUSD) is the Farm to Table Camp. It’s a week long program on the district’s farm behind Peterson Middle School. The program teaches students anywhere from first through sixth grade about farming. For complete news visit svvoice.com.

[geodethecrow]

SO DCI stands for Drum Corps International, which is an organization made up of Drum and Bugle Corps (pronounced "cores" because English is weird and doesn't like being spelled phonetically). its basically the NFL of marching band except only kids aged 16-21(?) (idk i think the upper age limit might change based on corp) can do it and they have to pay like thousands of dollars just to march a single season, although thats based on the top corps, im not sure how much marching a season in a non-top twelve corp costs.

there's 21 world class corps and they tour the US in the summer going to competitions which culminates in the world championship which is held over three days (Thurs, Fri, Sat) in mid August at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. I'm really lucky that my marching band gets that Saturday off of practice because we're close enough that so many of us go watch finals.

both open class and world class corps compete together in the championship but world class corps are almost always better. typically there are around 40 corps in the prelims, then the top 25 of those move on to the semifinals, and the top twelve there compete in the finals on Saturday evening. there could be more or less than 40 corps in prelims depending on things like if a corp isn't fielding that year because of money troubles, like one of my favorite corps (Santa Clara Vanguard) didn't field last season but they're back this season.

the season starts with audition camps in January-ish and then practice and stuff in the spring and touring kicks off in the beginning of either June or July. I'm less sure of the general season schedule because different corps go to different places and have different timelines throughout the season, and I haven't really looked into it because I don't plan on doing DCI.

dad I'm sick and bored can I spam you with DCI things/infodump about DCI?

idk what dci is so go for it!! tell me everything

[petethompsonphoto]

If there’s one experience that shaped my life as a teenager, without a doubt it was YMCA skate camp in 1988. The number of subsequent events that unfolded as a direct result of that summer cannot be understated. Mike Ternasky played the key role in how it unfolded not just for me, but for countless kids that were lucky enough to be there in that brief, serendipitous window of time. My friendship with @jacobrosenberg began here on the deck of this vert ramp (pictured here with a 14yr old @dannyway ) The few images I have of this time spark a feeling that can’t be put into words, but it’s woven into the fabric of how I see the world today. The second image is from 1998, on the set of “if you must” video that Jake was directing alongside @delhiero I remember how proud I was seeing Jake at the helm, passionately collaborating, doing what he loved. May 17th 1994... I can remember where I was the day I found out Mike T had died, rushing home to make that phonecall to Jake, and the lifeless, confused tone of voice on the other end of the line. As painful as it was, I’d have to guess that moment Mike passed away was the defining moment that created who Jake is today. I hardly knew Mike, but I’m eternally thankful for the man he helped create, and the countless others he impacted ❤️ (at Santa Clara, California) https://www.instagram.com/p/BxkeUaUlwq-/?igshid=1wx78vnjk1rw3

[jocelynscloset]

Moonage Daydream Chapter 1 - Me and Bobby McGee

Part 2

Title Song & Inspiration : Me and Bobby McGee (View story playlist here)

Summary: 70s Adam Driver AU (multiple part fic) part one. The reader picks Adam up on the side of the road and they get to know each other...

Warnings: nothing for this part, but potential sexual content later on...

Word Count: 1,304

Feel free to tell me what you thought/send a request through my ask box

You’re cruising fast down the highway, Joplin filling up the silence in your truck while you bop your head to the steady beat. The sun is warming your skin through the windows, and your sunglasses are sliding down your face with every bump you roll over on the unkempt road. Your hair is blowing in the wind coming through your window, and you’re happy.

You see him in the distance, and you slow cautiously, contemplating offering a ride. He looks harmless, though he’s massive, and you can tell even though you’re at least 200 feet away. He’s far from town, though, and you know you’re probably the only person who’s not a truck driver who’ll be down this road for a while. 

You are driving away from the middle of nowhere, where your folks are settled down next to the Santa Clara river, and you guess that he’s probably looking for a ride the extra 50 miles to LA. You decide to give it a shot. Either way, you have a crowbar under your seat, so if he tries anything, you’re covered.

You roll to a stop and you reach across the center console to roll down the window. “Hey there, stranger.” You greet.

“Hey, I’m Adam. I was hoping to catch a lift to LA, if you’re able.” You nod and gesture for him to get in.

“Hope you’re not a murderer. I have a gun on me, and I’m a good shot.” He laughs at that, and assures you he’s perfectly normal and harmless. “How long have you been out here on the highway?” 

“Just a bit. I started walking about 2 hours ago. There was a party a few miles back in Santa Clarita and my ride forgot me.” You nod and he continues. “I’m a student at USC, but I took a weekend trip to visit some family.”

“Really? I was visiting my parents in Buckhorn, over on the riverside.” 

“You grow up there?” You shrug and reach up to pull down the shade. 

“I suppose, but I spent most of my time in Santa Clarita with friends. I was hardly ever home, especially during the summer. There isn’t much to keep a teenager occupied in Buckhorn. I had to drive to Clarita for school anyway.” He nods as you tell him about Buckhorn and the camping spots and some stories about when you were a teenager and you’d sneak away to Santa Clarita for parties in Oakmont, one of the more wealthy neighborhoods in the town.

“Sounds fun. I spent most of high school in my room studying or in my best friend’s garage.” You smile at that, and you both continue talking about your teenage years.

“We’ll be in LA in about 20 minutes if traffic is good. Where are you looking to be dropped off?” He shrugs, and you let him think.

“Maybe a diner somewhere. I’m pretty hungry and I’m not quite sure I want to go back to my friend’s place yet. They’re usually there all day and leave at night, so I’ll wait until they’re gone.” You nod and continue driving in silence until you hit the LA traffic. You see a long line of cars blocking the flow of the freeway, so you decide to turn into the parking lot of a tiny roadside diner. It looks quaint and not too busy, so you decide to treat your guest to lunch.

“So, what’s your story?” He asks you, as you both sit awkwardly at a corner booth in the diner, which is less busy than you thought it would be around lunch time. You shrug, thanking the nice waitress that brings you both cups and pours coffee in them.

“I was born here, and I grew up in Buckhorn. I’ve been here my entire life, and I’ll probably be here for the rest of it.” He smiles lightly and brings the warm mug to his lips. 

“I meant, like, your real story. The one that hasn’t started yet.” You tlt your head at that question, but you figure you’ll give it a shot. 

“Well, I’m a musician. That’s something, I guess.” He nods and looks at you to continue. “I’m in a band, we play new wave, and I’m the lead singer and guitarist. I live in a tiny two bedroom apartment, and I used to live there with my best friend until she ran off to London with some British guy she married in Vegas.” He sends you a sympathetic look and you shrug once again. You’re starting to feel very comfortable around this man, who is a total stranger, and for some reason you feel like you could tell him your deepest secret without hesitation. 

That feeling scared you.

“Interesting. I didn’t beg you as the singer-type, but the guitarist part suits you.” You smile and cast your eyes to the mug in front of you, which you have yet to touch. You sigh and take it, lifting it to your mouth and taking a big gulp of the steaming liquid.

“How about you? What are you doing in the city of angels? You don’t seem like the struggling artist type, to me.” He chuckles and sets his nearly empty mug down.

“I’m a Junior at USC. History major.” You smile and nod, casting your eyes down to your the mug, watching the dark liquid swish around at the slightest movement. You’ve always loved history, but in Buckhorn there was nobody who wanted to talk about anything other than fishing or the next party in Santa Clarita. You were starting to wonder how you never met this boy in high school. Oh right, he didn’t party all the time, hence college.

“Yeah, you definitely seem like a history major to me.” He smiles again, and for some reason, you feel this sense of.. pride, from getting him to smile. To you, it seems he’s a little closed off, reserved, and you’ve always loved getting into the hearts of people like that.

“Yeah, I’m a typical nerd. I’d like to think I’m a little less geeky than the usual type, though.” You almost respond too quickly at that. You want to tell him he’s too attractive to be considered a nerd, and that being well over 6 feet and built like a tank kind of excludes you from that title. Thankfully, you catch yourself and just nod. Nodding’s harmless, right?

The waitress returns and you both order your food. It arrives not too long after and you spend a good half hour eating together and discussing everything you can think of, from the Vietnam War to each other’s recent musical discoveries. Before long, it’s well past 2 PM and you’ve got to drop Adam off before heading to band practice.

You two split the bill and hop back in your truck. Adam reaches into the center console and pulls out a cassette tape; Fleetwood Mac’s recent album, Rumours. You smile when you hear Go Your Own Way playing through the speaker, and you two drive the last 20 minutes to the train station next to your apartment in South Pasadena, where you had decided to drop him off.

“Here’s my number. I live up the street from here, so feel free to stop by sometime if you have the chance.” He smiles at you and nods, taking the napkin you had scribbled your name and number on in the bathroom of the diner during lunch. 

“Will do. Thanks for the lift, and I enjoyed talking to you.” You both get a little lost in the moment, smiling at each other awkwardly for a good 10 seconds before he pulls the truck door open and steps onto the asphalt. He turns the corner and he’s out of your sight, and you wonder how you could feel so happy and.. satisfied, after one afternoon with a stranger.

Hopefully, he’ll be around again soon.

I really hope you guys enjoyed the first part of this new fic I’m starting with the 70s Adam concept. You all seemed pretty enthusiastic about it, so I created a plot for it and planned it out to make it a full on story. I have a lot of good stuff in store for all of you ;) Please leave any feedback you can, and feel free to leave any comments and reactions for me! If you wanna fangirl about 70s Adam, or any other type of Adam, I’m always willing to fangirl over on my spam blog, @bestbitterbetterspam. 

Also, if you want to be added to the taglist for this story, leave a comment down below letting me know!

Send me concepts to write about or send a request through my ask box!

Spam Blog // Ko-Fi // Masterlist *Any support over on Ko-Fi is very much appreciated. I’m a full time student, and have to stay caffeinated enough to write stories, so any contribution helps!*

[wildwaterclovis90]

How many are Wild Water Adventure Park, Clovis in California water parks ?

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Unlike the other California water parks on this list, Wake Island's best Waterpark in California exists almost entirely off-land. Their “floating playground” consists of a series of inflatable slides, runways, jumping pillows, and bouncers connected together in the water theme park. You can find the  California water park playground floating in the middle of their man-made lake. Make sure you carve out some time to check out the swings, ramps, jumps, ladders, trampoline, slide, wiggle bridges, and Fresno amusement park. Though there aren’t many slides or rides at these California water parks, there is a lot of other favorite attraction in the California water parks.

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[santaclaralocalnews]

“We were scheduled to do ‘The Little Mermaid’ in the summer of 2021, but with COVID, it got postponed,” said Robin Shaddle, Recreation Supervisor at the City of Santa Clara’s Parks & Recreation Department. The creative, technical and production teams at the Roberta Jones Junior Theatre (RJJT), part of the Parks and Recreation Department, are making up for lost time as they put on “The Little Mermaid Jr.” as this summer’s CATS (Creative Artistic Theatrical Showcase) summer camp production. Read more at svvoice.com

[itsgoldendaylightt]

Hey Taylor, this is Caroline!! @baetayswift I first had the privilege of meeting her at the 1989 show in Seattle (she’s on the far left, I’m on the far right), then we ended up at the same summer camp, then again we met while seeing Kelsea Ballerini a couple weeks ago! I look forward to seeing her again when we see you on tour! She is pure sunshine and one of the sweetest members of the fandom. If anyone deserves to meet you, it’s her!! She is the number one Call It What You Want stan and uses the phrase ‘wig’ in every other sentence and most importantly, she is constantly supporting you! You even noticed her on Instagram awhile back and seeing her happiness from it, made me so happy! I know she’d be overjoyed to finally give you the biggest hug! You can find her in Santa Clara (night 1 and 2) and Seattle, and you should definitely take the time to meet her!! I know you’ll adore her just as much as we all do!! See you on tour 💓

[aadics]

★. 73 ( & MORE ! ) QUESTIONS WITH ADELINA MONJE:

BELOW ARE ##150 COMPLETED QUEENS THAT ARE BASED ON THE CHARACTER, ADELINA HERSELF. TOLD FROM A THIRD PERSON PERSPECTIVE, LEARN OF HER DISTINCT DETAILS, INNER WORKINGS & HOW SHE HAS COME TO BE.

1. if they were a candle, what scent would they be ? april showers. 2. what female celebrity do they wish was their sister ? mandy moore or reese witherspoon. 3. what male celebrity do they wish was their brother ? young hugh grant. 4. how old do they think they’ll be when they get married ? very young & she’ll learn. 5. how many countries have they been to ? zero. 6. what would they name their daughter if they had one ? billie or lucy. 7. what would they name their son if they had one ? elton, short being ellie or timothy, short being timmy. 8. what was their favorite tv show as a child ? between the lions. 9. what language, besides their native language, would they like to be fluent in ? french. 10. would they ever change their name ? if so, to what ? no, she actually appreciates her name as it was her father’s mother’s name & it’s the closest thing she has to her. 11. what was the last compliment they got ? you’re very pretty. 12. what is their favorite flavor of tea ? rosebud. 13. how did they find out that santa and the easter bunny weren’t real ? when she saw “santa” from one of the local stores changing out of his costume in an alley & removing his adhesive beard at the age of six. 14. what is their hogwarts house ? (recommended: take pottermore quiz) hufflepuff. 15. what tarot card are they ? (recommended: take this quiz) judgement card. 16. are they more of a marvel or dc fan ? she doesn’t really watch or read either, but marvel ? 17. who is their favorite superhero ? women. 18. everyone has a song that deeply reminds them of their childhood. what is theirs ? como la flor, selena quintallina. 19. what are the meanings of their first, middle, and last name ? adelina means noble & monje means monk. 20. have they ever stolen a street sign before ? definitely not. 21. what is their biggest pet peeve ? unmade beds. 22. if they were a month, what month would they be ? april. 23. what is their least favorite movie ? she can’t really say, as she hasn’t watched a movie she’s disliked. 24. what five movies would they bring with them if they were stuck on a deserted island ? that night, a walk to remember, breakfast at tiffanys, sound of music, & waitress. 25. out of all of the late night talk show hosts, who is their favorite ? she’s not an avid television watcher. 26. what are three things they are afraid of ? being forgotten, never fulfilling her dreams & running over something in the road & thinking it might have a kitten in it. 27. what was the first concert they went to ? never been. 28. is there a nickname that only their family calls them ? adie kind of originated from her father & hasn’t stopped since. 29. what side of the bed do they sleep on ? usually the middle, but it always shifts throughout the night. 30. what is their favorite comfort food ? mantecados. 31. what award shows do they watch ? the tonys. 32. do they have any weird body skills (example: being double jointed) ? she can raise each of her eyebrows one at a time. 33. if they drink coffee, what is their coffee order ? absolutely not. 34. what social media platforms do they have ? instagram & snapchat. 35. are they a cat or dog person ? both. 36. if they were a supernatural creature, what would they be ? an angel. 37. what show are they currently watching on netflix/hulu ? gilmore girls. 38. what is their favorite disney movie ? sleeping beauty. 39. do they wear any perfume or cologne ? perfume at her wrists & neck.  40. what genres of music do they listen to ? forties, fifties & sixties. 41. have they ever seen the bee movie ? yes. 42. what are their favorite memes ? older vines, maybe the guacamole video. 43. what celebrities do they share a birthday with ? her birthday is july eighteenth, so it appears vin diesel, nelson mandela & wendy williams to name a few. 44. what is their moon (zodiac) sign ? virgo. 45. which of the seven cardinal sins do they embody the most ? envy. 46. do they watch sports on television ? if so what ones ? occasionally baseball, the la dodgers were her father’s favorite. 47. what do they put on their typical sandwich ? usually it’s a grilled cheese & just the cheese. 48. what was the name of their first significant other ? michael. 49. do they care if people think badly of them ? immensely. 50. what was the last thing that made them cry ? just about anything, she’s an easy crier. probably just the sunset, or a duck. 51. are they an iphone or samsung user ? iphone 5. 52. what type of computer do they use (example: apple) ? she doesn’t have one. 53. what is one of their nervous habits ? twirling her hair. 54. out of all reality shows, which one would they have a chance winning ? wheel of fortune. 55. would they ever go bungee jumping or skydiving ? not at all. 56. what do they call their grandparents ? she never knew them. 57. what do they do when they can’t sleep ? read a book, or drink tea. 58. what time do they normally go to bed ? depends. 59. if they have instagram, what was the last picture that they posted ? probably a picture of clara. 60. if they have twittter, what was the last thing that they tweeted ? she does not. 61. who is their otp ? frenchy & doody, from grease or allie & noah, from the notebook. 62. do they like sweet, salty, or sour ? sweet. 63. did they play any sports in the past ? she only really went to the bating cages with her father, or bowling. nothing competitive, like teams & such. 64. what is their favorite cheesy pick up line ? do you have a band-aid ? because i just scraped my knee falling for you. 65. what tv show or movie is their guilty pleasure ? grease. 66. if they were a fruit, what fruit would they be ? strawberry 67. do they sing in the shower ? a full performance. 68. what is their favorite type of chips ? more of a pretzels kind of girl. 69. do they drink juice ? if so, what is their favorite kind ? fresh squeezed orange, or grapefruit juice. 70. what is more important to them: power, money, friends, family, love, or fame ? love. 71. what does their handwriting look like ? (x.) 72. do they have reoccurring dreams ? if not, what is their most memorable dream ? often with her father, mostly nightmares come to mind. however, she does daydream often of many, many things. 73. if they were a taste, what would it be ? sweet. 74. what is one random fun fact about them ? she has performed the scene from sound of music, sixteen going on seventeen & is devoted to being both parts equally. 75. what is their lucky number ? 14. 76. do they have any pets ? homeless cats when she can without being caught, warmed milk & tucked underneath her blanket with her. 77. do they believe in the paranormal or the supernatural ? to an extent. 78. have they ever had any paranormal experiences ? a few when her father passed, mostly soothing one’s. 79. can they sing or dance ? although she’s come quite far with both, she can’t carry a tune or dance elegantly. 80. who is the first person they call/text when something exciting happens ? her group chat of lola & amy. 81. what is their social media handle ? just her name. 82. what swear word do they use/like the most ? shit has to be her most vulgar. 83. what is their ideal first date ? a ride in the countryside & a picnic on a hill, stargazing in the evening. 84. if they were a type of weather, what would they be ? not a cloud in the sky, or summer showers. it changes. 85. what is their least favorite holiday ? can’t imagine such a thing. 86. what is the first thing that they do in the morning ? write. 87. who is their ultimate celebrity crush ? paul anka. 88. do they usually pay with cash or card ? cash. 89. what was the last thing that they bought ? a glass soda & pretzels at a side of the road store. 90. are they a good or bad driver ? decent. 91. if they could meet one person (from history or currently alive), who would it be ? selena quintanilla. 92. have they ever gotten into a physical fight ? not a single one, she has broken up many in her time. 93. do they prefer pepsi or coke ? coca cola. 94. do they prefer the city or the suburbs ? she’s only really known small towns, she sure would love a trip to the city though. 95. do they have any special or odd talents ? she can write backwards, as much as she can forwards. 96. when they were little, what did they want to be when they grew up ? a teacher. 97. do they have any favorite smells ? probably a simple vanilla, or lavender. the smell of baking cookies, too. 98. if they could visit any place in the world, where would they go ? the coastline of france. 99. do they wear jewelry ? she has worn a heart locket ever since it was given by her father, with a cross on the same string. it has a picture of her & her father in it, or so she tells. it’s simply the one that came with it, when he bought it from a pawn shop. besides that, scrunchies on her wrists count, right ? 100. who is the last person they talked to on the phone ? no one really, because all her friends are here with her. if it was before camp, jackson. 101. do they prefer ‘would you rather’ or ‘truth or dare’ ? she tries to be missing in action for either, but has fallen to a few rounds of spin the bottle. 102. what has been their favorite halloween costume yet ? she’s only been audrey hepburn, recreating her looks from scenes in her films. so, all of them. except, when she was four she was a nun like julie andrew’s character, maria in sound of music. 103. do they like horror movies ? not particularly, not much can be said from underneath a blanket. 104. what is their typical breakfast like ? waffles & fruit, or oatmeal: peaches & cream. fresh squeezed juice. 105. are they a netflix or hulu person ? netflix. 106. do they like to gossip ? hardly. 107. if they were a song, what one would they be ? he loves & she loves from the film, funny face, audrey hepburn & fred astaire. 108. what was their best subject in school ? english. 109. what was their worst subject in school ? probably gym, because she wasn’t learning anything & she was always last picked in everything for her height. 110. have they ever met anyone famous ? no. 111. who was their childhood hero ? julie andrews. 112. were any tv shows or movies that they weren’t allowed to watch as a child ? anything above pg. 113. what is the strangest thing they have ever eaten ? french fries dipped in a chocolate shake & she liked it. 114. do they prefer friends or family ? friends who are her family & clara, of course. 115. how do they feel about pineapple on pizza ? no way, she’s not a huge pizza fan to begin with. 116. do they put the milk or cereal in the bowl first ? cereal, then milk. 117. how do they think dogs would wear pants ? with the front of the pants on their stomach, not back. 118. do they believe in luck or fate ? fate. 119. do they use emojis when they text ? a little too much. 120. who was their favorite character on friends ? she’s never seen it. 121. what character on friends are they most like ? i’d say . . . rachel or monica. 122. would they rather read the books or watch the movies ? both. 123. what is their favorite time of day ? high noon. 124. did they watch the teletubbies as a child ? if so, who was their favorite ? no. 125. do they check the rating (like a rotten tomatoes rating) of a movie before they go and see one ? no, her town only has a theatre that plays older movies so she’s never really seen a new film in theatres before. 126. do they have any favorite old hollywood movie stars ? audrey hepburn & james dean. 127. if they had to live in any other decade, which would they choose ? the fifties for just a moment, to witness paul anka & for the fashion. maybe the fifties in france, too. 128. if they could only listen to five music albums for the rest of their life, which ones would they choose ? dulce amor by selena y los dinos, velvet mood by billie holiday, grease soundtrack by the grease cast, cheek to cheek: the complete duet recordings by ella fitzgerald & louis armstrong, songs for swingin’ lovers by frank sinatra 129. do they believe in heaven/hell or reincarnation ? she believes in some sort of heaven. 130. do they like chewing gum ? depends if she needs her breath to smell very nice, other than that it’s not a natural habit. 131. do they like to go see musicals or plays ? yes, of course. 132. were they apart of any clubs or teams in high school or college ? newspaper, old hollywood & student government in high school & now, she is focusing on just her classes. 133. what was their high school superlative ? most likely to make it out of this town. 134. are they good at cooking or baking ? baking, it’s a stress reliever she’s found. that & photography. 135. could they beat bobby flay ? well, she has worked in a diner her whole life so she has experience. she’d probably get caught up in complimenting him. 136. do they watch actual television ? if so, what channels do they watch ? very little, if she does it’s lifetime or telemundo, maybe food network. 137. have they ever seen rupaul’s drag race ? yes, very little. she doesn’t watch television very much. 138. do they prefer pink or yellow lemonade ? yellow lemonade. 139. could they lip sync for their life ? without a doubt. 140. is their room messy or clean ? clean, so clean. 141. if they were a body part, which one would they be ? fingers, because she enjoys tracing things throughout the day. 142. if they were an emotion, what would they be ? joy. 143. if they were a planet, which one would they be ? neptune. 144. how would they describe their clothing style ? denim, denim, denim & floral. thrifted articles of clothing. 145. do they shower in the morning or at night ? depends, but mostly morning. 146. do they order regular fries, onion rings, sweet potato fries, or tater tots ? regular fries. 147. do they normally wear socks ? frill socks. 148. do they fear natural disasters ? as much as the next person. 149. can they ice/roller skate ? barely, though she loves a date to a roller rink. 150. are they good at video games ? if wii bowling counts.

[fugandhi]

My Favorite Drum Corps Show

If you have not heard of what Drum & Bugle Corps is - Do yourself a favor and start looking it up now.

It’s NOT the same as the live experience (WAY too much POWER in a drum corps for any device to capture - Take my word for it).

So, I marched drum corps years ago (due to my love for music, then band, then marching band, and then the rest is history) and it was one of the most difficult and yet most gratifying experiences of my life (aside from adulthood LOL!!!) and I encourage anyone who is reading this and is thinking of either becoming a musician or having their child or a friend or anyone they know who is really into music - Tell them about Drum Corps (pronounced “Core” not “Corpse”).

Drum & Bugle Corps basically took what my high school marching band program had already established and it took it a LEAP forward. I mean, we toured the U.S., PAID a ton of money to do it (Thank you, Mom & Dad), and we had to work ALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL THE TIME!

Weird tan-lines galore, there’s a WHOLE subculture out there - almost a friggin’ CULT (I swear man) of really, really AWESOME and CRAZY kids out there (and even more insane instructors and tech’s who are all trying to get their careers as Educators or what-have-you all started up to share the gift of music & the marching arts - YES it’s an art-form, ABSOLUTELY - 100%).

If I were to belong to any cult - It would be Drum Corps (LMFAO!).

Origins of a ton of these corps dates back decades, and I’m talking some of them started from the Military Bugle Corps from wars - and others starts from Churches, Scout Troops (Boys Troops and Girls Troops to maintain the Scout Standard), Police Departments, etc.

I first came across drum corps because I happened to be flippin’ through channels, and I was like a freshman and I had JUST finished my first year in marching band (proudly/we did a rendition of Crossmen’s 1992 show, “Songs For Planet Earth” - AMAZING show and I had the honor to be in that show - still makes me cry every time I hear the closer because that show required SO MUCH HEART) - and there it was - Santa Clara Vanguard’s 1999 show.

I ran to grab a video tape, and I came back just in time to record Blue Devils’ show “Rhythms... At The Edge of Time” which I watched over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over again - I’m talkin’ like I could not believe there were people who were literally doing what I thought was IMPOSSIBLE.

With the most insane irony (or maybe it was fate) - I ended up being taught by Gino Cipriani, Wayne Downey, and like Jeff Sacktig, and like it was a variety staff like a real motley crew ya know? It was a DREAM TEAM staff - and my dreams came true - and I will never forget how much it meant to me to be able to march with friends from my high school (some who had already graduated before I could march with them at high school) and have my band director there the whole time and like - it was just such a dream come true. We ended up breaking the mold of the class divisions (Magic of Orlando Drum and Bugle Corps - Division II World Champions with record breaking score of 99.05 - which the Cavies happened to break 99 AFTER us LOL like we had A DAY where we made history and had the highest score in Drum Corps International HISTORY!) and the funny thing is - I remember at the beginning of the season we literally were trying to get everybody and their brother (and sister lol) to JOIN because we had like NOBODY lol!

Well, we had a good size corps, but there were patches missing in some sections ya know? I mean, there was literally a camp when we had 9 Trumpets and Gino was like “Yeah... We’re gonna have to do something about this” because this guy came from like The Cadets who had been DCI Div 1 champs like a ton, and prior to that he friggin’ was the brass caption for BD - I’m like - Dude, yeah, the staff and Kim & Rod were the necessary Leadership required to make Magic happen in 2002 (after not being on-field for like 2 whole consecutive years).

Either way, when I marched, I was not able to afford any more seasons, so Magic 2002 was and still is one of the biggest blessings in my life (aside from my family of course) and like if it was not for my really crazy summer that year - I wouldn’t have the mindset that the impossible CAN be Possible. Good things can happen to people if they put their hearts and minds to it...

...So...We were truly the “Cinderella Corps” of that year, and yeah I know we dropped from 10th to 11th for Finals but honestly - that accident with the Tenor Drummer who had his drums fall on his face when he fell on his back during finals - that literally NEVER happened all year. We were undefeated all season, no one expected us to make finals - even on our brass bus like we were talking about how some of the staff was even makin’ a pool of whether or not we made finals - whether that was true or not, it was a necessary motivator to push us and you know what? We did it. And the rest, as they say, is history. I left drum corps and the marching activity years ago - I tried a DCA corps and ended up getting burned badly from them - so bad that I just turned my back and walked away from drum corps and decided to never look back.

...Until I saw Carolina Crown’s 2013 show. I was inspired again. I had never heard a BRASSLINE that was SO AMAZING. Literally, BECAUSE OF THIS SHOW - my faith in drum corps had been restored. I only wish I could have seen this corps live - it must have been an absolute DREAM to be in this corps and in this show.

Carolina Crown was always a corp I paid attention to, although I always admired other corps more (BD 96-99 OH and PHANTOM & MADISON 1996!, need I say more?) - anyway, I actually used to live in South Carolina (a piece of my heart is still in South Carolina to this day - very, very fond memories of my childhood there/one of the places I was stationed). So, needless to say, I was always keeping my eye on Crown, and I have friends who marched Crown - but, I knew there was a very powerful change when I saw them in 2008 in Atlanta - the first time I ever saw a corps that pleased me as a drum corps nut more than BD - of course Phantom was AMAZING (”I AM SPARTACUS!”) - but I remember a bud of mine David was marching Tuba in Crown and I always gave props like DUDE Crown’s brassline - HOLY SHIT (LOL!)

I could go ON and ON about that BRASSLINE. They are SO beyond amazing - especially this year, 2013! THEIR BRASS LINE LITERALLY GOT A PERFECT SCORE AND THEY REMAIN THE BEST BRASS SECTION IN DCI HISTORY - uh yeah - THAT’s saying something considering how much detail-oriented work goes into these shows just on an individual level, let alone a massive level of epic proportions with the size of the corps these days.  .....Every Time I hear this brass section, I just start to melt - I’m like.. “I want to go to there” lol!...I am TELLING you.. This show inspires me every time I watch it - I literally have PHYSICAL REACTIONS to this SHOW! ...Like - I swear...that brass line performance.... I’ve had orgasms (LMFAO!!!) ...ANYYYY WAYYYYY  hhahaha I highly recommend watching the entire FINALS show on Youtube (ya got like 10 minutes? lol “LET ‘ER RIP!”) and seriously - even though I’m not too huge on the narration in drum corps these days and the over-saturation of certain effects - I gotta say - this is one of those drum corps...it’s just like... poetry.

...You know how certain things just like, transcend their normality? Does that make sense? Like...  In my humble and personal opinion - Drum Corps exists so that this show could have been made. This is one of many, many, many fine shows, but for me personally - this show is ELECTRIC (and like really profound). Even if you’re a die-hard drum corps dude like me (WHADDUP PEEPS?!), go ahead and like check out the friggin’ announcements and the crowd reaction from when Crown WON Finals Night! It is absolutely breath-taking because for any drum corps kids, we all dream of being Champions. We all strive for Perfection, and we always catch Excellence in the process.

It always makes me get like super emotional when I think about Crown winning, and it’s just so nice to know that the underdog can win, too. And, just knowing that those kids put their whole heart and faith into their work and their teamwork (a truly remarkable group) and they walked away Champions is absolutely wonderful. And the icing on the cake was how the corps was represented in receiving the Trophy, by their Drum Major, Linda Harvey - she was just so classy, and down-to-earth, and had such poise, and exemplified how honorable a Champion can be when it’s their turn to be number 1.

God bless Carolina Crown, God Bless everybody who has ever volunteered, watched a drum corps show, supported by investing in the youth programs for kids like me who believe in music and the power of inspiration and giving an audience something worth enjoying. Without drum corps, I would not have been able to believe in myself as a Musician today.

- ATOMIK 1

P.S. It has always been a dream of mine to one day own my own Drum Corps. I was always like, how would I do it if I ever had the opportunity to have my own corps - and I decided - I would totally have it be like Star of Indiana - you know, I’ll be like an older dude who’s got the bread and then I’ll just make sure it’s a well-oiled machine - and then have the quality of Star, but be designed like Velvet Knights (LOL!!!! YES!!!!) ESPECIALLY because they were the most FUN drum corps on the field and literally went the zany and quirky route instead of the super serious and militant way (and dorks like me rejoiced hahaha). ...chuck taylors and all LOL.

[kickmag]

Jay-Z & Beyoncé To Kick Off On The Run II Tour This Summer

Beyonce’s Instagram account posted a trailer today confirming the On The Run II Tour with Jay-Z. The first show is in the U.K. and they will tour Europe before returning to America where the last date will take place in Canada. Pre-sale tickets will be available March 14th and the regular sale starts March 19th.

                                   On The Run II Tour Dates 

June 06  Cardiff, UK @ Principality Stadium June 09 Glasgow, UK @ Hampden Park June 13  Manchester, UK @ Etihad Stadium June 15   London, UK @ London Stadium June 19   Amsterdam, NL @ Amsterdam Arena June 23   Copenhagen, DK @ Parken Stadium June 25   Stockholm, SW @ Friends Arena June 28  Berlin, DE @ Olympiastadion June 30  Warsaw, PL @ Stadion Narodowy July 03  Cologne, DE @ RheinEnergieStadion July 06  Milan, IT @ San Siro July 08  Rome, IT @ Stadio Olimpico July 11  Barcelona, ES @ Olympic Stadium July 14  Paris, FR @ Stade de France July 17  Nice, FR @ Allianz Riviera July 25  Cleveland, OH @ FirstEnergy Stadium July 28   Washington, DC @ FedEx Field July 30  Philadelphia, PA @ Lincoln Financial Field Aug. 02  E. Rutherford, NJ @ MetLife Stadium Aug. 05  Boston, MA @ Gillette Stadium Aug. 08  Minneapolis, MN @ US Bank Stadium Aug. 10  Chicago, IL @ Soldier Field Aug. 13  Detroit, MI @ Ford Field Aug. 18  Buffalo, NY @ New Era Field Aug. 23 Nashville, TN @ Vanderbilt Stadium Aug. 25  Atlanta, GA @ Mercedes Benz Stadium Aug. 29  Orlando, FL @ Camping World Stadium Aug. 31  Miami, FL @ Hard Rock Stadium Sept. 11  Arlington, TX @ AT&T Stadium Sept. 13  New Orleans, LA @ Mercedes-Benz Superdome Sept. 15  Houston, TX @ NRG Stadium Sept. 19  Phoenix, AZ @ University of Phoenix Stadium Sept. 22  Los Angeles, CA @ Rose Bowl Sept. 27  San Diego, CA @ SDCCU Stadium Sept. 29  Santa Clara, CA @ Levi’s Stadium Oct. 02  Vancouver, BC @ BC Place