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Basketball Hoop For Kids

PHILADELPHIA — The script was very much the same for the University of Rhode Island’s basketball team last night as it was in so many games last season. Except this time the Rams provided a different ending. This time, URI ...

URI repels Penn State for spot in Philly Hoop Classic title game - Providence Journal

There was no need to squint anymore. It was Saturday afternoon inside Chaifetz Arena, and the pep band was blaring, the rowdy Blue Crew spilled out into the aisles behind one basket, and St. Louis University basketball's new home felt like the kind ...

St. Louis University coach Rick Majerus is making change for the ... - St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Unlike years past, the Foxes don't boast that one standout player. But the upside is they have a lot of players who can produce. "I think our strength is the depth that we have, and the balance,'' said Wenzel, who has an overall record of 276-91 ...

Fox Valley Lutheran girls' basketball preview - Post-Crescent

JOLIET -- Thanksgiving weekend. Extra helpings of turkey and all those scrumptious fixings. And football, plenty of very important football games on all levels, not the least of which is high school. Eight state championship games are scheduled today ...

Hoop dreams come to life - Herald News

After a few year’s absence, the Marysville Monarchs hosted the reformation of the Union County boys basketball Holiday Tournament last December. MHS head coach Kenny Chaffin had hoped to make the tournament an annual event when he invited Fairbanks ...

Marysville Monarchs won't host holiday hoop tournament - Marysville Journal-Tribune

GREENSBORO - As flames shot through the front door and window of a home near South Holden Road on Monday, two Greensboro firefighters repelled the blaze just enough to rush inside and pull out a 4-year-old girl trapped in a back bedroom. But the ...

Firefighter, neighbor pull 2 kids from fire - Greensboro News & Record

Like most sharpshooters, Davidson's Stephen Curry hasn't seen a noticeable drop in his three-point percentage this season. The decision of the men's basketball rules committee to move the three-point line back one foot, from 19-9 to 20-9, generated ...

New three-point line hasn't had a big impact, more thoughts - CNN Sports Illustrated

Less than eight minutes turned a close game into a rout, as the women's basketball team from Marist College beat host Tulsa, 73-53, on Friday. Junior forward Rachele Fitz, a preseason All-American candidate, led Marist with 21 points and 10 rebounds ...

Marist women march over Tulsa - Poughkeepsie Journal

King’s West is going to be hard-pressed to match the success of last year’s team, which brought home a fourth-place trophy from the Class 2B state tournament in Spokane. Gone is former coach Bryan Hanley, who resigned in May after leading the ...

KW shooting for return to state - Bothell Reporter

A new coach is bringing in an entirely new attitude to the American Leadership Academy's girls basketball team. Ray Stewart has coached private basketball camps for hundreds of youngsters in the last 12 years, including time at Open Court in Lehi ...

Open Question: funny things toddler's do?

I was giving my 15 month old daughter a bath tonight, and we have the toy with the three rubber basketballs you can throw in the hoop. My daughter wanted to hold the basketballs - all three at the same time!! She was trying so hard and was getting so frustrated cause she couldn't do it. I helped get the third one in kinda under her chin, and she sat there kinda holding all three of them with a look of happiness. Then of course one fell, and again she is trying to pick them all up, and she starts to cry in frustration. I could not help but laugh. It was the funniest thing seeing how determined she was to try and hold all three, and how mad she got when she couldn't. I would love to hear other funny things your kids have done that made you laugh. more

Resolved Question: Am I the only one who watches college and NBA basketball notice this?

I watch college basketball and NBA, My first love is NBA. Now, here's what I notice. I notice that in the NBA they have more of offensive weapons that they use when driving to the hoop and shooting the basketball. I never hardly see college players using the up and under, the drop step, post spin move, and triple threat position hardly. Mostly, pass, pass, pass around the perimeter until someone's open and then shoots in college basketball. It's as if the college basketball player's don't know how to create their own shot like NBA players do. It's either that or the College coaches don't allow them to do so because their focus is on the offensive system that doesn't allow that. When I go to the court to play pick up ball, I can play in the post or at the top because I know all the offensive weapons and after watching the NBA for years as a kid too, I know how to play like that. If I were in college I'd have to learn a whole different system, as if I didn't know how to create my own shot. Are there any college basketball players or teams that allow their players to create their own shot or have the early knowledge right now and looks like a NBA player already? more

Resolved Question: Is it ok to socialize with minors?

What if I am in public like at a pool, have a cousin I am picking up from school, or if I am at a park playing basketball by myself at the playground and shooting hoops and I am an adult who is 25 and if some kids come by to play (just like the good old days when I was a kid myself) maybe like 12 and 13 year old boys and girls, am I allowed to socialize with them and challenge them to a game of basketball? That wouldnt make me a child molestor if I do an activity with them, would it? more

Resolved Question: What do Obama's kids get to do in the white house for fun?

I was wondering.. do they have to be like bored and modern. What do they do for fun? Have a basketball hoop in the lawn? A swimming pool in the backyard? more

Resolved Question: How can I get a spectacular jump?

I've been playing basketball for a while and I really wanted to jump high.. Few days ago I saw a video clip on youtube that showed a 5ft 4inches kid dunk on 10ft hoop. I'm currently 5.5 and I really want to get a high jump... what can I do?? more

Voting Question: My Hood is Bad. Should I Move?

I Live in a neighborhood that used to be nice, but in the time course of 17 years, my hood has slowly declined & is basically turning into the ghetto. People from the city ( Chicago ) are moving out here, turning this hood into the ghetto. And to make matters worse, I live on the corner. It seems as if whenever people want to start $hit, they come to the corner, which is my house. People always abandon their cars on the corner. If a group of thugs were walking, they would stop RIGHT at MY corner. People try to fight on the corner, MY corner. My house is right by an alley, and a group of kids occasionally put up their hoop and play basketball, disturbing the peace and tranquility of my home. It seems like my house, my corner, is just THE spot to conduct negative disrespectful behavior and cause disruption. Halloween is on a Friday, and kids like to trick-or-treat. Since I live right on the corner, we HAVE to give candy, or later on that night, kids (Teens Actually) will f u c k with my house, throw FULL GROWN Pumpkins at my window, u know, just assaulting my property. I will come outside with my pistol, but they all scatter. My family and I have thought about moving lots of times, and Now it seems like I have golden opportunity to move out of this neighborhood. Not to mention that I cant even AFFORD this house. So should I move? Please give me your feedback. more

Resolved Question: In Lompoc, CA why so many yards piled with junk cars,motorhomes in street for 15 yrs never move, don't run.?

Why is it the cops don't enforce laws in Lompoc, CA, hundreds of yards piled with junk cars on front lawns, motorhomes parked in street for fifteen or twenty years, never move, don't run, bikes on sidewalks, kids with no helmets, basketball hoops in the street, people playing basketball in the street blocking traffic, the cops do nothing, they only single out certain people and the rest run wild, even the cops are running stop signs and people are running red lights all the time, more

Resolved Question: Shouldnt they be some of the richest people in the world?

i don't understand how people whine that they need more teachers, soldiers, firefighters and policemen, but they are not willing to pay them well. i know this was brought up millions of times. but why is it that Tiger Woods can 88 billion dollars by just winning a silly golf tournament (waste of land in my opinion). and why is it that basketball players can make a million bucks an hour by simply throwing the ball in a hoop? ( i know i'm exaggerating). we've all been around teachers nearly half our lives and we have clearly seen how rough it can be for them. wouldnt you want to be paid more to teach snot nose kids who like to disrupt the class and talk back? then you have soldiers you risk their lives to protect their country, but then when they are not needed anymore, the government abandons them. does anybody think this should be reversed more

Resolved Question: My neighbors are trespassing nonstop. HELPPP?

Its getting really annoying and scary. These people that live across the street use my basketball hoop after I constantly told them to stop. They simply wont. It was a $2,000 hoop and I called the police and they suggested to put the hoop away, but I bought it for a reason so my sons can play with it. They use it everyday, but if the hoop somehow falls down, the police said we can get sued. So I am thinking of ideas to tell them, but the parents of those kids just curse at me and wow it feels bad. more

Voting Question: What are my chances to these schools with these credentials? Do I have a shot; will I get in?

List: Georgetown, Penn, Johns Hopkins, Temple SAT: taken 2 times already...1st, scored an 1890, 2nd, don't know yet, taking in nov. SAT subject tests: taking later this yr, in dec. World History AP, US History AP, Calculus AB/BC, English III, and IV AP, Economics AP, Honors Research Math, Biology AP, Psychology AP, Anatomy and Physiology, taking some classes at college for dual credit; Rank: 2 out of 990, 4.833 out of 5 North Shore Senior High, Houston, TX (football is priority, not many kids go off to out of state schools; usually go to University of Texas) Gents (2 years, Lupus walk, step shows, initiation, brotherhood meetings to discuss today's issues) -Debate (Facilitator, Parliamentarian, 4 yrs, won several trophies for extemporaneous events, debate, bible reading, group improv) -Academic Decathalon (varied positions, 1 yr) -National Honor Society (3 yrs, community service, trash bash, *in the process of starting my own project called Hoops for Hope, hosting basketball tournaments with the help of sponsors to donate to AIDS research* -National Tech Honor Society (2 yrs, VP or Treasurer) -Volunteer Activities (4+ years, all in the medical field, 400+ hours?) -Church Youth Fellowship(3 yrs, Habitat for Humanity, Food Drives, Mexico Mission (building houses on coastal islands, aid with education, and medical awareness trips), served as deacon, won several state speech competitions, youth basketball team) -Math and Science Club (1 yr) -Newspaper (1 yr) -Class Representative (Ideas for Prom, Homecoming, listening to ideas of students, and incorporating them into class) -Set Director (Encounters movie production, became local hit) more

Resolved Question: Childhood dream that I still vividly remember and recently had this dream a few weeks ago. What does it mean?

Ok so right now I am 22 years old. I had this dream when i was probably about 5 or so. This dream was a repeating dream back then and I recently had the exact same dream, same everything, a couple weeks ago and its buggin the crap outta me. So here is the dream. This is one of the dreams where you are in but you are watching it third person so you can see yourself and everyone and everything else. In the dream I am toddler age (roughly 2 years old). It starts out in the front yard of my house, my parents are outside talking to a group of people and I am out there floating, yes literally floating, about eye level with the adults just watching them when a vehicle that kid of reminded me of my dads old car but isn't it pulled up in front of the house, which i think the adults couldn't see cause they didn't react to it, someone gets out of the car, they are invisible no one can see him not even me watching the dream but somehow i know someone gets out and is invisible, walks up to me, the floating 2 year old, and starts pulling me toward his car. None of the adults seem to notice I am being taken away by this invisible man and or care. Right before he throws me in to his car my dream suddenly changes and I am a basketball court floor and Michael Jordan is playing basketball on me. Bouncing the ball on my face and shooting the ball in the hoop and what not. This is when my dream would end every time. Wierd I know but i have remembered this recurring dream since childhood and then just had the dream again only once. Any help? THANKS! more

Resolved Question: What position would suit me?

I'm just starting to play basketball this year. i'm in 9th grade and going out for the team. I'm 6' 1"(2nd tallest kid in whole class) and can touch the rim on a regular hoop height. My shooting is average and my ball handling isn't that good but is improving. what position do you think i should play? more

Resolved Question: What do you do with neighbors who let their children's bikes all over your property front?

This guy also walks on my lawn (his kids do too) when he goes over to another neighbors house, just to get across the easy way. He has his friends and neighbors park in front of my house all the time, and no one parks in front of his house. He also has a basketball hoop right on the corner of my property front, I guess as if to say that he owns 2 feet of property there (his driveway is next to it, but he can put that hoop in front of the other corner, closer to his house). He is a pain. Am I being unreasonable? Oh, and he pretends not to see me when I pass by with my car, sort of rude. I dont care but he does say hi in front of other neighbors that I am with. What bothers me the most is he disrepsects my property by letting his kids'' bikes on my own property, like right in front of my bushes. more

Resolved Question: How do you get a code violation enforced?

We have an ordinance that you can't play ball in the street. The neighbors put up a free standing basketball hoop that has turned our neighborhood into a slum. Code violation people don't want to handle it so have passed it off to department of transportation. The people with the hoop are hiding the hoop if an inspector comes out, and now property is getting damaged. The inspector doesn't seem to be making a real effort in getting it resolved. Police don't seem to be able to arrive in time to catch the problem, and the kids disappear when they see them coming. What are some more aggressive measures we can take to get this resolved? Is there a higher department we can contact? Speaking to the neighbor is out, they want it there. more

Voting Question: If you have a skill, can you legally charge people who want you to show it?

Let's say you're some random college kid majoring in biology, but you have a ridiculous ability to kick a basketball off a cliff and, a mile away, have it land in a basketball hoop. Just for the sake of argument. Could you charge, say, $1,000 if someone really wanted to see you do this? Or are there laws in the US preventing that? I meant to ask if I had to pay tax or something like that, or if I can just pocket the $1,000 (unrecorded). more

Resolved Question: How can I have mental health with these inconsiderate new neighbors being so disruptive?

Some new people moved in to rent the house next to us, with three teenage boys. They brought a portable basketball hoop, and play it day and night in huge groups. There is screaming and multiple balls pounding as early as 6am, the street covered in graffiti, and unfamilair youth now selling drugs there. My town has an ordinance against hoops in the street, but these renters temporarily take the hoop down when the city comes to enforce it. I have an anxiety disorder. When I come home at night, I need to relax. It's like pulling up to a carnival or a sporting event. I can't stop thinking about how disrespectful these people are, and how what they are doing is ruining my mental health. I don't feel comfortable even sitting out on my porch with all the cussing and crowds. I have a phobia of groups since I was mobbed all through high school so I'm not going to go out and shoot hoops or talk directly to the family (It wouldn't help if I did, because they know that a lot of people don't like the hoop and don't care). I'm a well adjusted adult, but would like to come home to some peace and quiet. I'm working with the city to get it out of here but it's been 6 months and still going on. The kids around here are unsupervised and out of control. Someone recently had their car dented from a ball. Last night some kids on scooters were charging traffic. I'm not against kids or them having fun. We have a teenager. I just don't think they should be in the street causing disruption to the neighborhood. How can I have a decent quality of life with this arrogant and rude behavior going on in my neighborhood? I want to move but am afraid because of the economy! Any thoughts or kind advice is appreciated. No rude responses please. more

Resolved Question: DO you understand this story? Please read it and give me some feedback!! ?

“I was never like this before. If I had only stuck to school and focused on math, maybe I would’ve actually had a chance to survive on the ghetto streets of South Africa. I could’ve been an accountant. I could’ve found a good job and earned the money to move from the streets and into a good neighborhood. I could’ve done many things with my life, but I never. I chose not to.” The bell had rung an hour ago. Sukh was late. Again . Over the past few days his mother would be out all night and would come home when he was getting ready to go to school. She’d collapse on the cheap and ragged sofa; her face would be moist and dripping with sweat. Sometimes she’d have bruises all over her body, other times she would be lucky and come home without a scratch. She’d pull out a ten dollar bill from her skimpy purse, and place it into Sukh’s pocket, as he would sit beside her on the floor wishing there was something he could do to help her. But no matter how hard Sukh had tried to persuade her into getting off the streets, she wouldn’t listen. The only reply he ever got back was a weak and hopeless smile. “ Sukh, you have been late for the third time this week!”, Mr.Chike said. He handed a pink slip to Sukh with a stern look on his face. “You’re a very well student and if you keep up like this, your overall percentage will soar down in no time. Take a seat.” “Yes, sir”, Sukh said avoiding eye contact. He took a seat next to the window and examined the class. It was emptier than usual today. At the most, there would be 15 students present, but today there were only 10. Most of the students either ditched class or couldn’t afford it. Some were even part of violent gangs. And others didn’t think education could get them away from the ghetto so they just decided not to show up. “All right class, so you will each be assigned to –.” Sukh dazed off, wandering about how his mother was holding up without him. Ever since she first told Sukh about how she had caught AIDS all he wanted to do was be by her side. But she would never allow that. Five years have passed since Sukh’s older brother had run away and from that day on Sukh’s mother had gotten very strict about education. “As time flew by at school I didn’t learn a thing. It kept up like that for days, and the days turned into weeks. And then months. My mind was drifting apart into a time when everything was perfect. When my family was actually a real and happy family.Although I knew it would never be the same, it made me feel better to know that there was once a time in my life that wasn’t as horrid as it was then.” As everyone was dismissed from school Sukh would go to a place where nothing could get into his way. The basketball court. He wasn’t the greatest player in his school, in fact he wasn’t even close to that, but he would always fantasize about being in the NBA. Knowing how easily you can get a girl by being famous made Sukh strive to do anything to be a better player. But it wasn’t only because he wanted to be chased by girls all day long,it was because he loved basketball. He lived for it. “He shoots and he scores!” Gamba said as he walked toward Sukh. Gamba was Sukh’s best friend and they’d always meet at the court after school for a game or two. “Yo,What’s up?” Sukh chest passed the ball to Gamba. “Not much man.” Gamba caught the ball and aimed for the hoop. He missed. “You?” “Same shit ,I guess.” Sukh ran towards the hoop to get the rebound shot. “Have you heard bout the new b-ball team? Their looking for players. ” Gamba wiped the sweat off his forehead. The sun was beaming. “For real? Since when?” Sukh bounced the basketball a couple of times, looking directly at Gamba. Gamba chugged what was left in his water bottle. “Since ever man. You should join, but they charge a lot.” “Naw,I’m broke.I ain’t got no change in my pockets.” He quickly looked away, trying to hide the disappointment in his eyes. “Listen Sukh.” Gamba lowered his voice. “I know a couple of guys. They play fair. You do something fo them, they do something fo you. It’s simple. You in?” “At the time, although I was only 14, I knew exactly what Gamba was talking about. And I also knew it wasn’t the right thing to do. But as a little kid my favorite show was sports connection and it was there where I wanted to be. I wanted to be one of those hip looking basketball players who wore expensive jerseys and roamed the courts with their grand skills. I wanted to be on TV; I wanted to be out there! And without some sort of experience I also knew there was no way of reaching that place I had so often dreamed about. So I agreed.” “I’m all in, Gamba.” Sukh aimed for the hoop. The ball rolled on the rim and swooshed in. Its not finished yet! more

Resolved Question: I am going crazy! Help!!!!!!!!?

Ok, Well a couple days ago a girl & her friends thought it was funny to wipe paper in this girls crotch & put it in my face. So when she did we fought. & then lata the girl wanna ask me if I told on her a**.?!?! & then she told me she was playin & didnt do it. ( I WON ) So now her friend don't like me either. & we have gym 1st period & me & the girl's friends brother we just play around. Like we always talk, stuff like which is better kobe or jordan (basketball) or u know we just play around like shoot hoops or race like little kids. So we always give hugs & like flirt. & now i really like him , like him. but yet his sister don't like me. So then the other day, he pulled out his belt & was hitting me & my friends ( butt & legs ). So i went to sit next to him so i could steal the belt & hit him. so then his sister's friend kept saying my name to his sister. so i said wth you sayin my name 4. & She said i she could say my name all she wanted & started to say my name. So i said i know my name is popular & that u like it. So me & her brother started to laugh. So then when i left my BEST FRIEND called me & told me they was talkin bout me. So now im hurt, cause i know he is close to his sister. & I know for sure he likes me too cause i could just look at him & smile & i see him looking at me & smiling back. & It hurts that it's his friend that likes me & his friend is the one that brought me toward him. What should i do?? It is hurting me that his sis don't like me & that it could mess up me & his friendship & soon to be relationship. What should i do?? more

Resolved Question: What do you think about this story for kids?

Girls Can Do That Too Maddie Franklin wasn’t your average ten year old girl. Maddie was very busy with ballet and piano lessons. There was something special about Maddie; she wasn’t afraid to try new things that fascinated her. Maddie lived in Bakerslay Township with her two older brothers; Timmy and John, and her parents. Her brothers were busy with basketball at the local high school while her mom took her to ballet practice and recitals about twice a week. “Daddy, why can’t I do the things Timmy and John do?” “What do you mean Maddie?” “I like going to ballet and piano practice but I don’t think I want to do that forever as a kid. I want to learn how to play football, baseball and basketball too.” “Maddie, I think that is an excellent idea but you should try one sport at a time don’t you think?” “You and mom have always said that if I believe, I can achieve anything. I believe I can be a great ball player someday.” “Well Maddie I’m glad that you want to try these sports but in order to be good at it, you will have to have a great coach.” “O boy, you’re going to coach me daddy? Thank you.” Just then Maddie’s mom came into the kitchen with Maddie’s piano books in her hands. “Maddie, we have to get going or we’ll be late for your piano practice.” Maddie grabbed her juice from the table and followed her mom out the door. The next morning as Maddie went downstairs to watch cartoons she noticed her brothers outside throwing the football back and fourth to one another. “Hey Maddie are you ready to learn a little about football and basketball this morning?” “Yes daddy I am but you forgot to mention baseball.” “Of course, baseball too, I wouldn’t want that dream of yours to not come true just because you never tried any of the sports. Go ahead and get dressed, I’ll be out front with Timmy and John.” Maddie excused herself and got dressed. Rushing back into the kitchen for a quick breakfast, she was sure to give her best at the sports she was about to learn. Joining her dad and brothers outside they knew Maddie was very serious. “Okay Maddie this is the plan, I’m the coach but Timmy and John will be helping me coach you. I have three areas set up just for you. All you have to do is first show me what you know about each sport. But the thing is, you only get one try and then I’ll step in and help.” “Are you sure dad?” “Sure, why not Maddie. Just show me and your brothers what you got.” Maddie was ready to show her dad and brothers what she knew but she was sure she would make them all proud. Maddie first tried baseball. She picked up the bat and had Timmy pitch it to her. “On the count of three I’ll throw the ball to you, just swing Maddie.” Timmy told her before he pitched the ball. “One, two, three…” The ball went clear over into Mrs. Stanley’s yard which was four houses down from where they lived. “Wow Maddie, you’ve got quite an arm on you that was great!” Timmy exclaimed as their dad ran over and lifted Maddie from the ground giving her a hug. “Maddie, I didn’t know you had it in you. You are really good at baseball.” John added as Maddie moved on to try basketball. As Mattie stood on the blacktop pavement of the driveway she noticed that the basketball net was a lot higher than what she was used to but she tried it anyway. As she dribbled the ball a few times she aimed for the basketball hoop and she made it. The ball went right through the hoop. Mattie was feeling pretty good since she knocked the baseball into the yard of the house further up the street. She was even happier that she made the basketball shot with one try. “Daddy, I’m ready to try football now.” Maddie said as she walked over to her dad standing at the end of the driveway. “Sure Maddie, you’re really good.” “Wait Maddie let me help you with this one. I’ll just show you how to hold the football and you go from there. When you throw it give it all you’ve got.” John suggested as Maddie held onto the football. “Are you guys ready? Here it goes.” Maddie had an aim to throw the football at least into the yard of Mrs. Stanley again but she threw the football further than that this time. The football landed into the yard of Mr. Haskins which was five houses down. “Maddie you are great at all three sports. I think you will be great to join the Bakerslay little league team. They have all these sports that you can play.” Maddie’s dad and brothers were really happy for her. Maddie didn’t give up just because she was a girl; she gave a lot more which made her great. more

Voting Question: Wanting to be able to dunk and need an opinion on if i will grow any more?

Well, atm im 14 years of age, and 15 in February my dad is 5,10 and im a few inches off him, so im around 5,7/5,8 i was never the tallest nor smallest in my class, and i have had some growing spurts but i dont think im finished growing ive been playing basketball for around 2 years and im pretty good, can shoot 3 pointers and layup fine.. the thing is, i play up my local court up this park.. and i know that kids that are about 6 foot cant dunk there, so the net has to be around 9-10ft.. now, ive always been quite good at jumping.. long jump and height etc, and up this park if i run up to the net and jump, im about 1 foot off it.. ive got about another good 5 years of growing i think and my leg muscles are still growing.. ah yes, my mum is 5,3 and my dad is 5,10, my sister is about 5,4 and my brother is around 5,11-6ft is it possible that i could outgrow my family and reach 6 foot? (also my grandads and great grandads etc were around 6,2 and 6,4) so yes, i really would like to be able to dunk someday, hoping to get a hoop in my garden soon that can be lowered to around 7-8ft that i can practice dunking on soon.. the question is, will i ever be able to dunk? thanks more

Resolved Question: are there any other movies like hoop dreams?

the documentry where they film two kids goin thro high skool and playin basketball. so rly all i want is the same thing as hoop dreams but wit diff. players more

Resolved Question: How interesting does this sound?

Posted: Tue Aug 19, 2008 7:15 am Post subject: I wrote a first chapter, Could someone critique this? -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bill Matthews sat in the waiting room of the Oak Hill group home with his mind rambling through thoughts. Thoughts about how different Toronto was from Los Angeles , thoughts of how tired he was from hauling his big, plasma screen television in his home on moving day. “Mister Matthews, could you come in please? I’m ready to see you.” Sam, who stuck his head out of the door to the left of the room said. Bill sighed and walked into Sam’s small office that only had enough room for two chairs and a long, tan desk. Bill sat in the plush chair in front of the desk and watched Sam scramble through numerous papers in front of him. Perspiration began to fill his forehead as it felt like a sauna in the room. The small window behind Sam gave Bill no relief from the heat that seemed to saturate the room. “I’m sorry for having you wait here in silence,” Sam said. “I’m just trying to get things ready for you.” Sam pulled out a brown, manila folder underneath the papers on his desk and placed it in front of Bill. “Ok, Mister Matthews, we have decided to hire you for this position.” Bill smiled and wiped his forehead. “Ok great, when do I start?” Sam stood to his feet. “Well, first before we get into that, I want you to tour the facility, meet the children that are here and introduce yourself ok? So come on.” Bill felt a swift breeze of air brush his face as he stepped back into the waiting room with Sam. “We’ll go to the first floor—in the gym, that’s where the kids are now.” Sam said. “Then I’ll take you to where your office will be.” “Does my office have air conditioning?” Bill asked. Sam looked at Bill, patted him on the shoulder and laughed. “Oh I’m sorry about my office. Someone is supposed to be coming tomorrow to fix my air conditioner, but yes your office has one and it should be working fine.” Bill smiled as he walked to the elevator with Sam. Even though social work wasn’t too far fetched from what he did at his old job, he still felt nervous about starting over at a new workplace. Sam lead Bill to a dimly lit hallway and into a large gym that looked to be almost the size of a football field. There were several bleachers on each side of the gym and bright track lights covered the ceiling. There were two basketball hoops at either end of the gym on the court, where several black kids were yelling and shooting ball at. Rap music was playing loudly on a stereo sitting to the left on the floor. As soon as the kids saw Bill, they became quiet and stared at Bill. All that could be heard was the loud music from the stereo. “Listen up kids, this is Mister Bill Matthews.” Sam yelled. “He is going to be our new Social Worker here so I want you to respect him, welcome him and respect him ok?” “Man, you said that twice playa.” One boy shouted out amongst laughter. Sam laughed. “I know, it’s the one you all never remember the first time.” Bill waved and smiled at the kids, as they all looked at him in confusion. He observed some of them with their baggy pants, white shirts and caps that were turned backwards, some of them had tattoos that covered almost all of their arms. Bill noticed some of them grit their teeth and motion for him to go away. Some rolled their eyes at him but when none of them waved back to him, his smiled faded. He looked at Sam and sighed. “That’s a um—nice bunch there.” Sam laughed and watched the kids go back to playing ball. “Yeah, they’ll grow on you eventually. Come on, I’ll show you your office now.” “So, those kids are—troubled youth?” Bill asked as he stepped onto the elevator with Sam. “Well, we like to call them at risk youth.” Sam said. “Some of them are secretly in gangs, some come from broken homes, some come from parents who either prostitute and or do drugs and some of them have actually been sexually and physically abused.” Bill nodded and glanced over at Sam and laughed nervously. “Yeah, well they really welcomed me, some white guy coming to say hello to the. They didn’t look too happy at all.” Sam laughed. “They just have to get to know you. Once they do, you’ll be just like—one of their boys.” Bill laughed. He walked into his office and smiled. The air was filled with the scent of polished wood. There was a medium sized desk in the room with a laptop computer sitting on top, and a plush black chair sitting behind the desk. There was a name tag with Bill’s full name inscribed on it in gold. A tall, gray, two-shelf file cabinet sat against the wall in the left hand corner of the room. An air conditioner was attached in the wall in the upper right hand corner of the room and was blowing out a cold breeze. “This is your office Bill.” Sam said. “Wow, this is nice, cle more

Resolved Question: How can i ignore my neighbor when he yells at me?

September 18- 3:30 pm Playing with cody on the slide. Marcus throws cat food at me. Says he has fleas and its my fault. september 20- Marcus cuts his grass 1st time all summer September 28- 7:00 am Marcus throws our basketball hoop across the yard. October 1- 10:30 am – I pull up after taking Mandy to school. To find 4 trash cans in driveway. Marcus comes out screaming that we are white trash and complaining about our toys. I explain toys are not trash. We play with these 3-4 times everyday. Argue for 10 minutes back and forth. He called me everything but “white trash” I called him everything but a crack head N-word. I told him the reason he has fleas is because he had not cut his grass all summer. October 11- 8:30 pm. Marcus slams door open and screams about dog being in yard. Bob says I am not dealing with you anymore. I am going to get Bill. Marcus chases him to the speed bump and says we can work it out. Now these are not conversations these are full blown arguments. I am thinking of getting a restraining order. Talking to my friend on the phone today….she tells me I should start documenting the incidents then I remember I done it last time and search for Marcus on my computer and there it was! I need a video camera. May 3- Marcus buddies jump Nathan at 10:30 at night……cops were called. We were at Grandma’s all day so we don’t really know what happen. Supposedly, Nathan was walking home from barbs, when Markus and his gang were leaving almost hitting Nate. There was a fight and the cops were called. May 4- 4:30 Playing out with kids…………Barb asks if we heard the commotion last night…….We had no clue about the fight. Nate comes over around 5:00. Not 5 minutes later 2 cops come rolling up with Bill. Gives Nathans wallet back and says he is not allowed in the trailer park anymore. I then remind Bill of all the problems I have had with Marcus. Marcus comes out and is like you talking about me? And we say yes, and then we argue. It gets heated even with Bill there. He yelling I don’t take care of my kids and I yell your nothing but a crack head mow your grass. May 5- 8:30 am- step out to let dog out and Marcus is sitting on his back porch looks like talking on the phone Yelling about the incident yesterday. Heard him say “The bitch next door told the cops and Bill I was a crack dealer because I have lots of friends over everyday. That bitch is ganna get hers. Although he was talking on the phone he was yelling loud enough that he wanted me to hear him. I started to say something and decided I better just come back inside. June 6- Had a campout with 5 girls in the neighborhood and Mandy. Was woken up at 2:00 in the morning to a crash. Rush out of the tent to find Marcus friend had knocked down our light pole and was stuck up on the sewer thingy. The girls were all very frightened. The cops came and a girl was arrested for a DUI. Apparently she thought my yard was a road. Luckily no one was hurt the sewer stopped them from running us over in our sleep. This could have been very bad. Bill says one more incident with Marcus and he is out of the trailer park. August 31- Marcus pulls up and yells about Cody being in his little pool without his diaper on. Cody is starting to potty train and removes his diaper. Geeez he is 2 years old. I had brought out a pair of underwear for him to put on but, he sees him and has to say something and of course it’s not nicely saying something it’s always in a yelling kind of way. I just shrugged at him and let him yell, Proud of myself because OHHHH how I wanted to tell him were to GO. Says I am trifling bitch what ever that means. I’m the one sitting here watching my kids when he always comes out with an attitude of what we are doing. I never even paid him any mind until he yells something at me. what can i do about this guy? civial restraing order? Moving is not an opition for us. We live on 1500 a month and our trailer is paid for. more

Resolved Question: Looking for a toy I played as a kid, its from the 80's,I used to get it at Boston Childrens Hospital Gift Shop

Ok, so I was little so I'm gonna do my best to explain what I am talking about. I used to get them when I stayed at the hospital(Boston Childrens) and they were at the gift shop. One that I had was a basketball one, it was a small plastic box that had an oranga bottom and clear sides. there was a wind up thin on it if I'm remembering right and there were tiny little silver balls. there was also a "tab" on the front that you "flicked" and it would pop the ball up into the basketball hoop and I could be wrong but i think the wind up thing made a little plastic man move back and forth on the inside. I know it is a long shot since i'm not being very clear, but i'm doing my best. I just can't get it out of my mind and really want to know what they're called. I know there were a few different themes. if anyone knows what this might be or can direct me to a site or something that I can maybe find out I would greatly appreciate it.... thanks a lot! :) more

Resolved Question: Can Any responsible parent answer this??

My 12 year old son and three of his friends were throwing stones (The kid has 3 basketballs and he is throwing stones) into a basketball hoop. Well one boy threw a stone, it bounced off a mans trash can and hit his windsheild cracking it. The man calls the cops. All the boys told the truth about what happened. At first I was a little upset that even though boy #4 threw the stone that broke the window...all of the boys will be paying for the windsheild. My son has been on the phone looking for work to pay for his share. now my question is...did I do the right thing in agreeing with this??? Two of the parents are upset with me. They said it was the word of three boys against one and only the one should be paying. My good friend, took my son out for an ice cream and making him feel better and I am home feeling like a wicked witch. Thats why my son, jordan, is calling people to do odd jobs. I didn't throw the stones he did so he can work to pay for his share. Thats my thought on it. more

Resolved Question: i need help raising confiedence and self esteem?

ive read some of the other questions and i asked a similar one but i didnt like the answers. ever since i was in elementary i was a kid with low self esteem but it didnt come until 3rd grade. im a sophomore now and ive gotten a little confident but im not satisfied. i walk with my head down and every once in a while i walk with my head up and chest out.i want to be confident where ever i go no matter what i look. the only thing i dont like about myself is my head is kind of big, my forehead is too, and my face is kind of oily but besides i like myself. i used to hoop and exercise daily but i havent in a while. i quit basketball. when i exercised i used to feel to confident and happy but when i get lazy i just lose it. i want to get out of my lazy self andd be active everyday and i want to look in the mirror and be satisfied. im not an ugly person at all everyone is family get noticed by randomed ppl in public. i do 2 when im confident. can you help get me confident and proud of self im not doing any hypnosis or going to therapies but thanks anyways more

Resolved Question: Would this bother you?

Recently some renters bought the house next to us, and showed up with a portable basketball hoop and three teen boys. I wouldn't mind games before dark in small groups, but games go on for hours and attract big crowds. Seems like there's 4 or 5 balls pounding at a time, and lots of yelling and profanity. Sometimes there's 30 kids out there, between ages 16-19. They usually put it away around 10pm, but around 9pm I'm trying to relax and watch tv, I find it really disturbing. Many of the other adult neighbors seem to love it, and come out onto the curb to cheer and watch. Does this go on in most neighborhoods? Am I someone who should just live in the country or would this bug you? more

Resolved Question: Was my reaction too extreme?

We have some new neighbors who moved in with a portable basketball hoop. We didn't mind their kids and friends playing. But then, it started turning the neighborhood into a public rec center. Loud games started at 7am. Car loads of cursing 20 year olds would show up in the afternoons and use the hoop when the parents were at work. One night the owners came home and a huge group of strangers were playing ball at their hoop. That night they put it away, but after that kept leaving it up. I wanted to discuss it with them, but my husband said that when something gets this out of hand, and you try to discuss it, you're at their mercy if they don't like your complaint. In other words, if you need to report it later, they know exactly who complained and may vandalize your house. We reported it to the city and they were advised to put away when not in use. That lasted about a week. Once back up, 20 or more teens showed up nightly for games, and dealing drugs. They covered the street with graffiti. I couldn't walk out of my house after dark without stepping into a roaring game, with kids and adults in huge numbers, who didn't even live in this neighborhood. I ended up asking the Home Owners Association to send a letter, stating that the hoop was causing problems, and that there is an ordinance against it, and if they didn't take it down they would be fined. They also sent a letter to the renters landlord, letting them know what was happening. Additionally, the letter suggested a civil suit if safety issues or property damage occoured as a result of these gangs. The letter went out today and the hoop was put onto the driveway. I feel bad for being so harsh, but it was really scarey looking out and seeing this every day. These people knew most of it, and chose not to do anything about it, so I felt like reporting it was my only choice. Do you think I over reacted? more

Resolved Question: My six year old son is too impatient with himself. How do I get him to lighten up and keep trying?

My little guy has been a perfectionist from day one. It doesn't matter if he is learning to cut with scissors, write his name, swim or whatever, he tries once and if doesn't have instant success- he just quits. Yesterday he went to his first day of Basketball camp for upcoming first graders. He was real quick to notice that there were kids there who already had most of the skills. (He's very sharp - he reads at the 3rd grade level independently.) When they dribbled around the chairs he lost the ball on the second chair so he went to the wall and stood there alone. When they did ball handling drills he just stood there with his hands to his side, pouting. He didn't even try it. When they shot hoops, he didn't make the basket the first time so he wouldn't use his second and third try. He did however get in line for the next shot. He was very successful with the passing and catching so he participated fully in this part!His dad and I have and still are helping him with basketball. more

Resolved Question: Whats wrong with American Kids??!!?

I went to the park yesterday to play some ball, and there were some kids playing basketball outside..they looked like they were in the fourth great and most of them were kinda big...I was kinda happy to see them playing together and exercising. However, within a few minutes of playing i thought a heard the F word...although i doubted myself, a moment later i one of them say "sh**" and so i started to get a little upset...All throught the time i was practicing on the other hoop, i just kept hearing curses...it really made me mad because, well these are 9 and 10 year olds were talking about!! I shouldve followed what Muhammad (pbuh) said: "if you see something wrong stop it (physically). if you cannot do that than say something to stop it. And if you cant even do that, then at least feel bad about it in your heart.(but this is the weakest form of faith.) Unfortunately, even though im 16 and i probably coulve gotten through to them better than an adu lt could have, i didnt stop them. Dan L Whats this about iraq? It seems as if you think that everyone is opressed over there. So being free to you means allowing our society to become rotten? So because we are free and its not in the contitution, we can stillallow our kids to curse? Do you have ANY sense of morality? Its because of thinking similar to yours that people feel that they can do what ever they want. Without accountability for our actions, we become lesser people, doesnt matter if its spelled out in the contitution/by court or not..If our gut feeling (something called fitra in islam) tells you that something is wrong then you should do your best to follow it! It shouldnt matter if 99.99% of all the people are doing things wrong, you should be part of the .01% of people who are doing it right. Only then will that number increase...I really dont understand your logic. Only family and close friends should tell you what is wrong and what is right? are they the only ones allowed to give u advice? more

Resolved Question: Why is God letting this happen?

Throughout my life, I have been the victim of abuse repeatedly. My father was terribly mean. In kindergarden I was beaten up by a giant group of kids, and other times throught school chased, teased, and bullied. At age 18, I was kidnapped by gunpoint. I survived all these things, and other than severe emotional damage, wasn't terrible hurt physically. As an adult, I've been blessed with a wonderful small business that allows me a lot of freedom. I'm 38, newly married, living in an average neighborhood. I've had mental issues because of my past. Mainly depression and paranoia, feeling people are against me. I finally worked through most of this in counseling, and was looking forward to a good summer. People recently moved in beside us with a free standing basketball hoop. It has invited so much riff raff, it's turning into a public court & drug spot. Huge crowds are showing up and it's caused me extreme anxiety. It's ruined my summer, and my marriage. Why did God bring this just when I was starting to have good mental health? My mental health is horrible now. It's absolutely WILD what's going on next door, and has ruined the neighborhood. There is no peace and quiet here at all. Plus, I see it escalating into crime. There are teenagers yelling, doing drugs, and of coarse the never ending pouding of balls day and night. The street is now covered in graffiti too. We are definately going to move, but it will take months to get the house ready, and who knows how long it will take to sell. I have been praying for a season of peace, and then this breaks out. I just don't understand. I've always had a strong faith and I just feel beside my self. *Please don't anyone respond anything rude or negative about God. Please post those things elsewhere as I'm not interested in hearing it. btw, I don't mean to "blame" God. I'm just trying to understand his protection.. Tabby, your response wasn't helpful at all. I'm wrestling with understanding why I seem to constantly be encountering this. If this is common, just say it sounds common to you. Why do you need to attack my character? From what I'm hearing from others around me, which is a number of friends, family, and clients, this isn't common. They are astonished. So excuse me if I find it all a bit hard to swallow. more

Resolved Question: Basketball Hoop handle snapped in half!!?

My kids were playing on the basketball hoop outside and the handled used to lower and raise the hoop snapped off so now the hoop will only stay in the lowest position and I have a snapped handle left with nothing to do. Is there anywhere that sells these parts individually? Any ideas would be appreciated! Thanks! more

Resolved Question: is this a good story so far and can you help finish half?

CHAPTER ONE It is burning hot outside, it is so hot I can boil some eggs on the sidewalk. When we moved to L.A we didn’t know we were going to be staying in the desert. Hi, my name is Samantha, but my friends call me Sam. Well, actually my friends at home. We just moved here last month and tomorrow school begins. Luckily, I won’t be the only new kid. I haven’t met anyone yet cause I hardly go outside. I’m always inside my room reading a book or on the computer emailing my friends back at home. The closest I get to going outside is checking the mail. My Father says I can’t even walk Olivia (our dog) outside until I get use to the community directions. Well, right now I am actually reading a book called “Little Women” I absolutely love that book it is one of my favorites. I was turning to page 250 when my brother walked in with his baseball shirt and baseball cap Mom sewed which read “Robison Family Team”. I have one to cause me and my brother love to baseball. We both hate the name, but Mom says she won’t buy us another one or sew another one until we outgrow these. I completely hated the bet, but there was nothing I could do. “Hey, you up for a game of ball?” Nick asked me bouncing his baseball in his hand from side-to-side. I smiled and set my bookmark on the page. I ran to my closet and grabbed my baseball cap. I reached inside and pulled out of pack of gum. I unwrapped the piece and dropped it on the floor. “Let’s go,” I called out. We jogged downstairs and burst out to the backyard. We found Dad outside shooting hoops. I sighed. The only reason he played basketball was to get in “shape”. Nick and I searched around for loose pieces of papers, chip bags, and soda cans. I found one and he found two then we set them down as bases. Nick was the pitcher and I was the batter. Nick threw the ball and I missed. Our eyes both followed the ball which rolled behind me. I popped my gum and shrugged. “Get the ball bozo,” I ordered. “It’s right behind you,” Nick exclaimed. I popped my gum again, and it get stuck on my face. I quickly took it off so I could argue with Nick. “Yeah, but if I touch the ball I’ll get out,” I explained. “No, you won’t Nick nodded. I squinted my eyes giving him a look. We stared at each other for about 2 seconds then Nick sighed throwing his baseball cap down. Then he walked towards the ball. I giggled sneaking out another piece of gum. Later, we were playing catch with our softball. I threw the ball just a few inches. Nick squinted his eyes from the raving sun. He pulled his baseball cap down to keep it from out of his eyes. “Sam, you throw like a girl,” Nick complained. I made a face at him. “Hello, I am a girl,” I demonstrated holding up my hand. Nick hesitated glancing down at the grass. Then he picked up the ball and started tossing it up in the air. “Well…you throw like a boy,” Nick taunted. I slowly walked to him and smiled. Then I patted him on the head. “Thank you, normal people actually consider a complete,” I taunted back at him. I snatched the ball and walked into the house. Mother called my name as soon as the door swung open. I sighed glancing at my watch. I knew it was dinner time and she wanted me to help her. She’s always going on and on about how 14-year-olds are always cooking dinner for their families. I tried to explain to my Mother that I’m not those type of girlie-girls. “Want to help cook dinner sweetie,” my Mother asked. I sat down at the counter and did a fake and friendly smile. “No, Mom I think I’ll pass,” I said. Mother mumbled to herself as she stirred the spaghetti. Although, I had to admit it did look fun. I imagined my brother and I cooking dinner and all of a sudden we’re having this big food fight. It would be so great to be covered in spaghetti sauce. I would taste and smell so good. Although, so people would be allergic to me and that would be really bad. Dogs might even try to eat me, on second thought I’d rather just smell like my normal-self. Speaking of smell I smell like grass. Maybe after dinner I should go take a shower. Nah! We don’t want everyone losing their appetite because of my mustiness. Meanwhile, I had taken my shower and we just settling down for dinner. I sat down in my seat and looked at my mashed potatoes. I used to love mashed potatoes, but Mother’s mashed potatoes were worser than our school’s mashed potatoes. I scrunched up my nose. more

Resolved Question: How can you make neighborhood kids play alley basketball respectfully; not damage property and create noise?

The kids in our neighborhood play alley basketball on garage mounted hoops. There has been damage to garages, loud noise disturbances, trespassing, and bringing large numbers of kids into the area who do not live there. We cannot find a compromise with the kids and everyone is mad and tensions are high. The police have been absolutely no help. Any advice ? more

Resolved Question: Outdoor Play Structures Sets or Kits for School-Aged Kids?

Hello, I am opening up a daycare for School Aged Children ages 6-10, and we are trying to decide some outdoor play structures for them. Some ideas we have is a blow-up pool and basketball hoop. However, we are trying to determine what other out-door play structure-type kits and sets are available. We thought about swing-sets but that may be better for "younger" children. Children ages 6-10 may not want to play with a swing set. Can anyone share any ideas for outdoor play structures for children ages 6-10? Thanks alot in advance...... more

Resolved Question: how to talk to this guy?

He is 2 houses near to me. And I never saw him come out but ever since I started walking the dogs he came out today. And so did this other dude. How do I go up to the kid he like stands out in the side walk thorwing his basketball in the hoop. And he gave me a glance. But niether of us talk. How do I talk to hiim? more

Resolved Question: Would you mind this outside of your house?

A portable basketball hoop went up next door a couple months ago in the street. I wasn't crazy about it since we don't have teenagers ourselves, but tried to accept it since living in community is a compromise. Now it's not just a small group of kids, it's up to 30 teenagers. The parents leave at 6am. Kids come along from surrounding neighborhoods as if it's a community park. There are games starting as early at 6:30 am, and going sometimes after midnight. I've seen kids out there smoking joints. One time a kid screamed into my upstairs window trying to intimidate me. Even when the family isn't home there are hords of teens shouting and pounding balls. I feel a little bad being so upset over it, since I would rather see kids playing ball than getting into trouble. But it's really disruptive, like living in a rowdy sporting arena. I'm concerned it could invite crime. Would this bother you? There's an ordinance against playing ball in the street, should I report it? more

Resolved Question: What to do about bad neighbors and their kids?

I live in a pretty stellar suburb, and have for over 20 years. We got these new neighbors a few years ago who not only stole our basketball hoop, but when we called them out on it and forced them to return it, they sent their devil children out and about and spread nasty rumors about us so we're isolated. Not that I care, really, I'm not missing out on associating with mediocre idiots who make 9308403 kids and can't raise a single one right, but see now their kids are little jerks. They leave their play things all over my yard, throw water balloons at our house, and generally act like our house is their playzone. What can we do? Obviously negotiating with idiot neighbors is not going to happen, but I'm sick of their kids possibly doing things that will damage my house. Ah, to respond to the answer about why after 20 years our neighbors believe the new kids -- well because see, the suburb has a lot of movement in and out, so after awhile we sort of stopped taking the time to develop close ties with people we expect to leave after awhile. We're not hostile with anyone, except our neighbor because he's an idiot for stealing our hoop, but we also don't care too much because we're probably 20+ years older than the parents as well. Wait, question then, if stuff is left on my yard, can I keep it then? more

Voting Question: I'm having an 8th grade party today with about 20 kids from my class, boys and girls. What are some fun ideas?

I have water baloons and there are a ton fo family and family friends coming so there will be about 75 people. What are some fun things to do? We have two soccer nets, basketball hoop, big neighborhood. Any ideas? more

Resolved Question: Should I complain directly or indirectly?

Neighbors just moved in next door with three boys and a portable basketball hoop. At first, they'd put it away when not in use which was fine. Now, they leave the hoop up all the time, turning our front yard into a PUBLIC COURT. Kids come in from outside neighborhoods, smoking cigerettes, cursing, and yelling. Somedays it starts at 6:30am and ends at midnight. One night the parents pulled in from work, and about 30 unfamiliar teens were in their front yard with a wild game going. They made their kids put the hoop up for two nights, but now it's freestanding again. If they'd just put it away when not in use, it would be fine. But this is CHAOTIC. Additionally, with this many unsupervised older teens around, it invites more crime. Is there a polite way to make this request to the parents, or do I make myself a target to the kids if I do? Should I just see about getting them fined or something? I hate to do that, but I can't live like this. more

Resolved Question: Straight boy in my neighborhood teasing me?

there were 4 kids playin basketball at my hoop out front of my house when i got home from watching my cousin's softball game, and one of them is so attractive: hot face, chizzled abs, great thighs and calfs, and a not so little noticeable somethin lol. but anyway, i think he was teasin me. (im 17, hes 18) they dont know im gay. but when i got there he was like flashin his abs and saggin his pants a little. omg hes got the best stomach ive ever seen. i was gettin a b----- instantly, but i controlled myself. lol just thought id share. ps hes not gay hes got a gf and i dont want to love him, haha just other stuff. more

Resolved Question: Can loud basketball playing in the neighborhood be reported?

There is a basketball hoop in the neighborhood and it's been there for a pretty long time untouched. The area is predominantly occupied by senior citizens and basically very quiet. Lately there has been a group of kids who do not reside in the area playing basketball loudly and agressively (cursing, loud music etc.) Although they don't cause any trouble to anyone, except annoyance, do you think I have any rights to get them to stop? If so, how? Calling the police? more

Resolved Question: Do your kids have outside toys and do they play with them?

I have a brother who is 6 and has way too many toys, so my mother has passed them down to me, but my daughter is only 6 months old, and i feel like they are taking up space. They are outside toys like:; a little tykes picnic table,a plastic basketball hoop ect ect so what im asking is do your kids play with this stuff? and is it worth it to keep it or no? more

Resolved Question: How can I help my unpopular 10-year-old?

My son, 10, told his sister that kids seemed to act like he was invisible, at school. His best friend moved (left the US) and now my son really doesn't have friends. He's a sweet, bright boy with some unusual interests (loves old TV, writes books, loves to sing) and he wears a knee brace so he's not too athletic. He's got a great sense of humor, and is kind. Sometimes he's a bit inattentive, in his own world, so this might put some kids off. I've been distracted this year by a sibling's crisis, and so I haven't focused on supporting him in playdates, etc., but I wish I had. What can I do now to help him build friendships? Also, what kinds of things at home would be fun things for him to enjoy with other kids? We have a PlayStation, computer. Our driveway's too uneven for a basketball hoop...what's worked for your 10 year old? He's only a year away from middle school, with all its pressures, so I really want him to be able to feel good about having friends. Thanks for your hel Thanks for your help! If you can suggest any resources, that would be great. I live in central NJ. Also, anyone having experience with social skills groups would be great. more

Resolved Question: What is the law regarding basketball hoops in the street in Santa Barbara County, California, kids playing?

In Santa Barbara County, California, what is the law regarding those portable basketball hoops they put in the street and no one can park there and there are lots of kids and adults playing basketball for hours, making a lot of noise, not moving out of the way when vehicles are coming and is there some kind of code or something regarding this? more

Resolved Question: How come the Lompoc cops don't give out tickets for all the vehicles parked in red zones and up on the grass?

Thought you couldn't have cars parked up on your lawns and yet there are so many yards full of vehicles that don't run and never move and are parked all over the grass and gravel in yards, why don't they do something about it? There is a boat parked in the red zone on Lupine near North Ave. and it sits for months at a time and never moves and gets to park in the red zone. On D St. and North there is a red car up on their grass and sits forever and they don't get orders to get rid of theirs like others have been told they have to get rid of their cars in their yards. Why is it only certain people have to obey the laws. And what about all the basketball hoops way out in the streets and all the kids and their parents playing basketball out in the street all the time and they won't get out of the street when a car comes, is it even legal to put those out in the street, or don't you know. We thought cops were so smart why don't they know the laws and enforce them. Bikes on the sidewalks,etc Police state? Some would say we already live in a police state, but why should one person have to get rid of their cars and not anyone else, would you feel it was fair if they made you get rid of yours while a hundred other yards stayed full of cars, or is it cuz you're one of them who gets to keep theirs and not have to obey any laws while others do? Maybe you have a basketball hoop in front of your house or a yard full of cars or maybe you're a cop. Why not attack the people who make and pass these laws and not attack the ones who feel if one has to obey them, everyone should have to. more

Resolved Question: High School players aren't ready physically or mentally for the NBA, however the Nation says they are ready

for war. If a kid is deemed ready enough to go kill and suffer far more mentally, how is it a big deal for them to go shoot some hoops professionally at 18? That's fine if the NBA wants an age limit, whatever floats their boat. But take a note from MLB. They have three classes of minor leagues. Kids are drafted out of high school and paid millions in bonus money to play in basically a developmental league. When teams think they are ready they get called up. The NBA should follow suit with their NBADL. If the kids aren't ready fine, but I think denying them the riches of their trade is not right, people can make excuses all they want. Basketball is a trade. These guys work 10+ years to development their skills in this trade. So please let me know why raising the age limit to 20 is a good idea? I don't enjoy seeing OJ Mayo, Michael Beasley, and Derrick Rose in college when I know their intentions are not because they WANT to be there. more

Resolved Question: Is it legal to play basketball in the street?

I live in Michigan, and my neighbor kids have decided to put their basketball hoop in their front yard facing into the road, even though their driveway is ridiculously long and has ample space for them to play there. I'm not so much annoyed as I am concerned about their safety, as there is a blind corner about 2 houses down where people can't see them until they have turned the corner. Also, the kids don't seem to care... they will continue to play until a car is right there and has to stop or slow down. Is this legal? If not, what should I do? Thanks for the input, for those who actually answered the question... for the two who said there is nothing wrong with it; I would say in a normal situation you are right... we have kids ourselves. However, with the blind corners in our court, even at the 25 mph speed limit the kids could be hurt, and they DON'T watch for cars. Also, our court is mostly elderly people, with the exception of us, the basketball neighbors, and two homes on the East side of the court. This being said, the impaired judgement of some of the older drivers in the court, along with the corner situation and the careless kids lead me to believe that I need to do something. So, again thanks to those who answered, to the other two; I'm glad your kids are well behaved and your neighborhoods are conducive to street play. more

Resolved Question: Will i really get better?

So i used to be the best in my school in basketball and a really good shooter. but now i am not the best and may be in the top 15 and i know if i was the best once i can be the best again the main reason in because i stopped practicing.I am planing on practicing 2-4 hours almost everyday in the summer.Will that get me a lot better over the summer and perhaps make me the best again.Another thing is that on my hoop when i shoot around i do really well but at school i dont do the best because the hoop is different and to me it seems it is shorter but most kids do real good on other hoops so i am not sure but if i practice a lot will i become the best again or will practicing not make a difference more

Resolved Question: why did i draw this picture? (Pic included)?

i found this picture i drew when i was a kid. i remember drawing this, but i dont remember what it means. there are 2 suns in the sky, a tree growing from a cloud and money growing on the tree. one of the sun's is holding a knife with blood on it and is wearing glasses. a boy who resembles me has wings for arms and is playing basketball (the basketball hoop is on the tree), but there is this girl who resembles my sister who is riding a flying bike with spikes on the tires and a couple of those spikes are poking into the boys wing (arm) making him bleed. ive never drawn anything like this, so im wondering why i drew it. here's the link-- http://img260.imageshack.us/img260/4128/wtfzy0.jpg oh and the girl is wearing a blindfold for some reason and has her hands off the bikes handlebars. this is a serious question by the way more