Erik Rauterkus

Last minute advice from Mt. Nebo (not Lebo)

2011-06-10T18:34:00.000-07:00

Erik road the 9-mile loop tonight on his bike. He races at 9 am on Saturday. This will be his second "road race" and a his luck should be much better than the experience a couple of weeks ago in West Virginia's Tucker County.

The guy who cut his lawn and dumped all the grass clipping on the street needs to do a little sweeping with his broom, if he could.

Race director wrote:

Last Minute Details- Tour of Mt. Nebo June 11, 2011

Thank you for registering for the Tour of Mt. Nebo.
Parking/ Registration and Start are at the Martic Elementary School.
Finish is just around the corner on Nissly Rd.
266 Martic Heights Dr. Holtwood PA, 17532

Registration opens at 7:30 a.m.
You will need to fill out and sign a release at reg.
If you pre-registered you we will have a pre-printed release form for you to sign unless you need a one-day license. Then just fill out the one-day form at reg.
If you are under 18 your parent will need to sign your release or one-day form.

Pin your number on your left side.

There is room in all categories. Tell your procrastinating friends to come and race Mt. Nebo.

First category rolls off at 9:00 a.m.

Weather forecast calls for 73 degrees and sunny at the start rising to 80 by noon. There is a chance for thunderstorm- typical summer weather.

There is no food or drink at the start/finish area. Plan accordingly. There is the Mt. Nebo General Store about 1-mile west of Martic Elementary School on Martic Heights Drive.
We do not have access to the school this year, so port-o-pots, sorry.

There is a feed zone for 200 meters before the finish line. Keep in mind that you will go through water much faster with the heat & the hills than you do on flatter courses.

Tech tip: Each year at Mt. Nebo several riders learn they are applying much more torque on their rear wheels when one is climbing steep grades. Make sure your wheel is true and secure. Make sure your derailleur is adjusted properly, especially when your shifting down into the granny gear, otherwise you’ll jam your derailleur into your rear spokes.

Also, make sure your front derailleur is adjusted properly too and don’t downshift from the big ring into the small ring under pressure or you’ll drop your chain.
It’s really hard to get going on a steep hill once you stop.

Speaking of climbing, a rider contacted me this week and said the total climbing on the flyer is wrong and according to his GPS it is about 1080 feet per lap. This is what I thought it was for years than I went to new mapping program and it said half that.
I actually counted the isobars on a contour map and it is 1080 feet per lap.

Also, he noted the steepest sections on Brady Hill Road have a 23% grade. Tough stuff.
Last year’s Cat. 1/2 winner, Joe Dombrowski signed on to the Trek-Livestrong Team a month after Mt. Nebo. He just won a stage race in Europe.

Road Cycling League Super Series- There will be bon us point sprints for the pro/1/2 race with 4 laps to go and 2 laps to go.

Safety Tips. There are several exciting down hills on this course. If at all possible, please check out the course before the race. It will be well marked by 7:00 a.m.
You can also download the race map, which is located on the second page of the event flyer. As always, remember you can’t win a race on a descent at Mt. Nebo but you can surely lose it. The first lap is where you need to pay attention. There will be caution and stay in lane signs at particularly exciting spots. Trust the signs.

This is a centerline rule race. You cannot cross over the centerline to gain position in the field. This won't be an issue after the first lap, because the hills will create a natural selection and the fields will thin out. Also if you cross the centerline when a vehicle is approaching there is another kind of natural selection that will take place!

For the start we will have a neutral rollout for the first mile. On the first descent we will control the pace so stay on your brakes and leave a gap.

Results will be posted at registration.
Prizes will be handed out at registration.
Online results will be posted at www.roadcycingleague.com then next week on the USAC site.
Look for Super Series results to be updated by Thursday.

We will also have day of reg.

Don’t forget the Coatesville Classic on July 3 and 4. It features a criterium and a beautiful road course. You can enter each individually or you can enter the two day omnium. I will have complete flyers for the Coatesville Classic at registration.

Also look for the State Road Championship flyer to be posted soon for Robesonia on Sunday July 30.

Drive safely

Thank you,

Rich

Video trip of the race:

500 free at States

2011-04-07T09:24:00.001-07:00

The Eagle covers Badminton Champs: Erik and Tobias

2011-04-07T04:30:00.000-07:00

The Eagle

200 at States

2011-03-29T12:20:00.001-07:00

Do you like the "Law & Order" TV show? Here goes "ripped from the headlines of real life" stuff

2011-03-22T04:16:00.000-07:00

10 Law & Order Plots That Were Shamelessly Ripped From the Headlines | Criminal Justice Degrees Guide

Erik's PIAA results, Splits DATA

2011-03-21T10:04:00.000-07:00

200 free:

Erik got 32nd, 1:52.31.
Splits: 25.28, 100 = 52.94 (27.66)
150 = 1:22.25 (29.31) and 200 = 1:52.31 (30.06)

500 free:
Erik got 32nd again, but with a lifetime best time: 5:03.57.

50 = 27.28
100 = 56.88 (29.60)
150 = 1:27.12 (30.24)
200 = 1:57.43 (30.31)
250 = 2:28.02 (30.59)
300 = 2:59.09 (31.07)
350 = 3:30.58 (31.49)
400 = 4:02.14 (31.56)
450 = 4:33.39 (31.25)
500 = 5:03.57 (30.18)

Erik Rauterkus, sophomore, and the final swims for any Schenley Spartan.

Full meet:
http://paswimming.com/1011/results/postseason/statesfull/aaamenresults.htm

School Newspaper Coverage of City Meet

2011-03-07T10:01:00.000-08:00

The Obama Eagle covers City Swim Meet!

Here we come, Spartans!

2011-01-13T10:21:00.000-08:00

Homework: Martin Luther King Jr, and Socrates visiting with God at the pearly gates

2010-12-21T05:44:00.000-08:00

Martin Luther King Jr. and Socrates Skit

Scene: MLK meets Socrates as they are about to be put on trial to see if they are worthy enough for heaven.

God: Trial of worthiness for heaven for Martin Luther King Jr. and Socrates to begin in 5 minutes. Please take your seats.

MLK: Are you actually Socrates? The real Socrates from 339 BCE?

Socrates: One and the same, sadly.

MLK: But why then Socrates if you have died some 2,000 years ago are you still not in heaven?

Socrates: I guess The Almighty just hasn’t liked my answers so far. But, I keep trying and trying to change the philosophy of The Almighty.

God: The trial is now in session. Case number 2,987 for Socrates; trial number 1 for Martin Luther King Jr. In this trial you will be asked a series of questions and/or presented with different scenarios that you will then react to in the way you think best. By your answer, I will decide if you will prosper for eternity in heaven or suffer forever down below. Does this sound fair?

Socrates: As I have spoken before, to simply conclude, Almighty, that heaven shall bring happiness while hell shall not is, to say the least, shallow. For it is my belief that Virtue is sufficient for happiness. How is it that You, Almighty, which of course is what You deserve to be called, can determine a soul’s happiness? For can’t one have a moral obligation and good in hell just as easy as heaven? Therefore, creating happiness where You believe happiness does not exist.

God: Socrates, I am God. Do you agree with my proposal or shall this court case not even continue?

Socrates: I will, and always will, agree with the goodness and virtue of the law. For, breaking any law is an unjust act. However, the lawmaker can have faults and this is where the change might be needed.

God: Socrates, are you aware that I am the lawmaker and the one deciding whether you spend eternity in heaven? Moving along.... Martin Luther King Jr., do you have any problems with the law or the lawmaker, before we start?

MLK: I believe that maybe the law might be unjust. Is it just for one to have a say on how another spends eternity? In this case, I cannot say, for I was raised a religious being; one who believes in the power of God. But laws can be unjust and those laws need to be changed.

God: Two philosophers in this trial I see. That’s just great.

I will begin with the first question for both of you. A man plotted multiple terrorist attacks and destroyed the lives of 2,996 people. This person also claims to be fighting injustice and for a cause. Should this person be sent to heaven or hell? Martin Luther King Jr., we will start with you.

MLK: Injustice might have been corrupting and put this man and his people in an awful situation. However, it is my belief that injustice should be fought with peaceful direct action. I do not exactly know the cause of this man’s injustice, but a different approach should have been taken to find a solution. Therefore, I am afraid that I would have to sentence that man to hell.

Socrates: But, Dr. King, I am a firm believer that no one does wrong willingly or knowingly. Even though this man has committed a horrible crime, taking the lives of thousands, his punishment should be the decision of the laws that dictate the Earth. For those are not evil -- like sending a man to hell for eternity. I also believe that no one desires evil. So how can it be right to serve this man evil on a platter? So no, this man should not be sent to hell.

MLK: But, Socrates, this man has taken the lives of almost three-thousand! How does he not deserve any evil?

Socrates: For the simple fact that he has done no evil willingly. Even though we may think that this is a heinous crime, it might have been his only option. But if no one does wrong, then no one desires evil.

MLK: But I am also a firm believer that there must have been another way to receive justice than the actions that man decided to take.

God: Your responses have been heard. Now we move to the next question.
Both of you pretend that you are living in the greatest kingdom known to man. The wealth is enjoyed for about 70-percent of the population. But, this wealth is built on the backs of the 30-percent minority. The laws separate these two groups of people. The majority are educated, have luxuries, and government aid gets provided by law. If you are in the minority how do you, right the wrong of the land if there is wrong at all?

MLK: I believe in four basic steps in a nonviolent campaign against the unjust laws the majority has created. I would most likely handle this situation very much like the one in Birmingham. The four steps include:

Collection of facts to determine whether injustice exists
Negotiation
Self purification
Direct action.

In this case, a fight of injustice laws with a direct action might be necessary. The creation of tension makes people address the problem. I believe that constructive, nonviolent tension is necessary for growth.

Just as my friend, Socrates, felt that it was necessary to create a tension in the mind, so that individuals could rise from bondage, I believe that in this case, the people of the minority, of the oppressed, should stand with peaceful action and stop waiting for a solution that might never come. Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor. It must be demanded by the oppressed.

Unjust laws that bind people of goodness must be undone and destroyed. People can peacefully stand and create an environment of tension that brings down the unjust laws that bind them.

Socrates: True, Dr. King. I have always been a strong advocate of tension within the mind. People are blessed with virtue. If one finds the way to spread the warmth of knowledge, then at the same time, the person will spread virtue, for virtue is knowledge and vice versa.

You will never be able to run away from your problems. When I was sentenced to death by the courts of Athens, I was given an option: to leave Athens and live out the rest of my life in peace. I could not agree to that option because I would be going against the greatness of the community.

In my case in Athens, and maybe in this case, Dr. King and I differ. I believe that all laws are created justly and with the greatest of intents. But, lawmakers and perceptions of laws, at times, can be flawed. In my view, one should not disobey laws at any time. But, one should bring enlightenment and virtue to the law makers so that the laws are upheld with a correct moral outlook.

MLK: But, Socrates, are there not times when truly a law is unjust? When a law is a moral law or the law of God, isn’t it just? When law makes a code that is out of harmony with moral law, doesn’t that create an unjust law that needs to be changed?

Socrates: Yes. You are correct that the law of God and moral laws are the ones we most hold dear and follow. But, other laws are not flawed by design because people do not do evil knowingly. Therefore, injustice might have been committed, but the committee did so without knowing. Therefore, the best approach is enlightenment and the spread of virtue through the lawmakers.

God: I have taken your answers into consideration and the decision is final for both. Martin Luther King Jr, you are granted eternity in heaven. Socrates, if you admit that I know all and am the wisest and smartest being ever, then a trip to heaven is granted to you. However, if you do not, you must spend eternity in hell.

Socrates: God, do you know everything?

God: Yes. Of course. I created everything.

Socrates: How big is the earth?

God: The diameter of the Earth is 12,742 kilometers.

Socrates: Very good. Do you know right from wrong?

God: Always.

Socrates: Do you know if I will go to heaven or hell?

God: It, of course, depends on your answer to this question.

Socrates: Then You do not know everything and therefore know nothing. For once one door is open that is vast with a question that you do not know, another door will soon appear followed by another and another and another. From this one unknown the cycle continues on for eternity proving that You know nothing. I know that I know nothing. You, on the other hand, think You know everything. But really, You know nothing while I know one thing and only one; that I know nothing. Therefore, I can not say You are the wisest being in history, for it would be a lie.

God: Then you will be forced to spend eternity in Hell.

MLK: If the great Socrates is to burn in hell for all eternity, and I prosper in heaven, a great injustice has just occurred in this realm. Socrates is a man who I emulated throughout my life. He is a trailblazer in the search for knowledge and his teachings helped countless in quests for better understanding of the world. He should not be sent to suffer. He, of all people, do not deserve that hardship.

Socrates: I follow the decision of the law. I am comfortable with this decision. What would eternity be like with no suffering and problems. I will carry virtue into hell and therefore be happy for eternity.

MLK: No! How can a great soul of Socrates be forced to spend eternity in hell?

Socrates: Don’t worry Dr. King. As long as one carries virtue one carries happiness, and therefore hell will be even more grand then heaven.

MLK: But no bad can befall any good man in life or death. So, once again, I get to witness injustice. It seems in life and death they are abundant. So, I will follow Socrates to Hell, bound by the cause to right the wrongs. We shall step into this injustice together. Be ready for fights in Hell, together.

God: You both, my friends, have given witness and passed the test. You have showed that in life and death you are willing to give up all luxuries, freedom, and happiness to stand for a cause greater then yourselves. I am truly honored to send you to heaven where, you both, eternally belong.

Slides from the LTP on Prayer

2010-11-24T11:44:00.001-08:00

Here are the slides from the LTP presentation:

Erik R

View more presentations from Mark Rauterkus.

Erik Rauterkus is entered in the WHAT meet for mid October

2010-09-21T09:08:00.000-07:00

Event Sign-up at First Splash at WHAT, Woodland Hills:

Event and seed time:
Day 1, Saturday
# 32, Men 15 & Over 100 Breast, 1:11.77Y
# 36, Men 15 & Over 100 Free, 52.47Y (Went 51 at City HS meet)
# 44, Men 15 & Over 100 Fly, 1:07.86Y (Went 1:03 at PAWW's JS meet)
# 52, Men 15 & Over 400 IM, 4:58.30Y

Day 2, Sunday:
# 82, Men 15 & Over 200 IM, 2:23.52Y
# 90, Men 15 & Over 200 Breast, 2:43.81Y
# 94, Men 15 & Over 50 Free, 24.26Y
# 104, Men 15 & Over 500 Free, 5:18.47Y (Went 5:12 at PIAA.)

Cedeno leads Pirates to 4-3 win against Diamondbacks

2010-09-18T09:07:00.000-07:00

Cedeno leads Pirates to 4-3 win against Diamondbacks: "Cedeno leads Pirates to 4-3 win against Diamondbacks
Single in ninth scores winning run, backs Burres' strong start"

Pirates win. E went.

Gene Kelly Awards, here we come.

2010-05-31T14:25:00.000-07:00

Both Schenley as well as Central/Oakland Catholic did well in the Kelly Awards. The gang attended and many performed. Erik -- just to watch.

State Education Board recommends nutrition, physical ed changes

2010-05-06T14:11:00.000-07:00

State Education Board recommends nutrition, physical ed changes: "The state Board of Education today gave initial approval to proposed student nutrition and physical activity standards for public school districts.
The proposal still has a lengthy process to complete before any regulations would become final.
'Getting junk foods out of our schools and getting healthier food options and 30 minutes of daily physical activity into them are simple steps that can have a tremendous impact for our young people,' said State Board Chair Joe Torsella in a news release."

Erik for Cleveland

2010-05-06T10:32:00.001-07:00

Busby in Cleveland
MeeDate: June 2010
EventNumber1: 12
Event1: 100 free
EntryTime1: 52.47 SCY

EventNumber2: 44
Event2: 200 free
EntryTime2: 1:51.83 SCY

EventNumber3: 58
Event3: 400 free
EntryTime3: 5:08.14 SCY

EventNumber4: 92
Event4: 50 free
EntryTime4: 28.08 LCM

Grant P Rauterkus for Cleveland

EventNumber1: 22
Event1: 200 free
EntryTime1: 2:54.58 LCM

EventNumber2: 28
Event2: 50 breast
EntryTime2: 51.62 LCM

EventNumber3: 32
Event3: 50 free
EntryTime3: 35.45 LCM

EventNumber4: 64
Event4: 100 free
EntryTime4: 1.18.60 LCM

EventNumber5: 70
Event5: 50 fly
EntryTime5: 49.82 LCM

EventNumber6: 74
Event6: 100 back
EntryTime6: 1.36.17 LCM

EventNumber7: 102
Event7: 100 breast
EntryTime7: 1.56.07 LCM

EventNumber8: 106
Event8: 50 back
EntryTime8: 43.90 LCM

EventNumber9: 112
Event9: 100 fly = 1:50.05 LCM

Comments: All LCM times (long course) Perhaps 400 cut at Classic
B1: Submit

Let's go Pens via Plum

2010-04-07T06:48:00.001-07:00

High school teams set for 'Greatest Game Never Played' - NHL News - FOX Sports on MSN

2010-03-30T18:20:00.000-07:00

Sweet.

High school teams set for 'Greatest Game Never Played' - NHL News - FOX Sports on MSN: "The 1989 squads never got their shot. Mr. Olsen stepped into the gym and was hit with a reality check: A measles outbreak at Delbarton forced officials to cancel the game. It was never rescheduled.

The New Jersey teams dubbed it 'the greatest game never played.' For the next 20 years, the decision would weigh on the players, who always wondered if they could have been champions."

500 free at states

2010-03-18T10:36:00.000-07:00

Erik swam in lane 8 and did a 5:08 in the 500 free. I don't know if that is a team record or not? It was a personal best.

More PIAA Swim Video to come soon.

50 Free at Age Group Champs - best time - 24.2

2010-03-13T17:15:00.000-08:00

Went to Pittsburgh Symphony and learned a lot about Beethoven's Hearing

2010-01-27T07:49:00.001-08:00

We took our seats early because there was a great pannel before the show!

Italian Dinner on Feb 20

2010-01-20T10:23:00.003-08:00

Come enjoy pasta with homemade specialty sauces, bread, salad, and wonderful desserts. Yes, there will be vegan options and plenty for you carnivores as well. Non-alcholic beverages will be provided. Please feel free to bring your own wine if you like. Your hors d'oeuvres will be accompanied by music provided by talented teens. It is a great evening for visiting and enjoying the young adults in the Youth Group who plan and put on this event. The proceeds from the event are donated to a scholarship fund for local students in need.

Date: February 20th

Seatings: 5pm and 7pm

Reservations are required: Please sign up on the sign up sheets provided in the diningroom (see sign up sheets for pricing for adult and child meals - money will be collected at the door). All ages are very welcome!

Sweet Caroline from the Pitt Game Today

2009-10-24T17:45:00.000-07:00

Stanford Polo Players: Brothers Wigo

2009-10-18T16:23:00.000-07:00

Speech from Promotion to 9th grade

2009-08-21T10:35:00.000-07:00

On the last day of school, Frick Middle School closed. The city-wide magnet was shutting its doors and packing up for a new home, out of Oakland and its 6, 7, and 8th grade setting to the East End, Reizenstein Building and a new configuration of grades 6 to 12.

At the 'promotion celebration' held at Pitt, Erik Rauterkus gave this speech.

JCC Survival of the Fittest Contest

2009-05-24T13:00:00.000-07:00

JCC of Sq. Hill had a fitness contest, Greater Pittsburgh Survival of the Fittest. Happened on May 24, 2009, on a Sunday. This was after a morning workout at the outdoor pool, long course.

Erik did the following:

Pushups = 37 for 7 points

Pullups = 7 for 7 points

Situps in a minute = 46 for 5 points

Body Fat % was 14.3% and 3 points

Bike was on one mile course on the station / course with 2:52 and 5 points

Rowing on the ergomoter was 1316 for 6 points.

Bench press was 70% of body weight for 16 REPS for 4 points.

Total points was 37.

Michael Phelps Happy With Decision to Keep Swimming - washingtonpost.com

2009-05-13T12:04:00.000-07:00

Michael Phelps Happy With Decision to Keep Swimming - washingtonpost.com: "Phelps wants simply to assess his potential at shorter distances. In the 50 and 100 free, he will unveil a straight-armed freestyle stroke, which is popular among some sprinters but completely new to Phelps.

Erik and some school mates are on a 8th grade class trip to Baltimore and Hershey

2009-05-07T18:31:00.001-07:00

Having fun and being safe we hope.

Erik entry

2009-05-07T18:29:00.000-07:00

Erik to swim June 19, 20, and 21 in Cleveland at the Robert F. Busbey Invitational.

FullName: Erik P Rauterkus

EventNumber1: 2
Event1: 200 IM
EntryTime1: 2:23.52 = Bonus

EventNumber2: 10
Event2: 100 free
EntryTime2: 54.32 SCY

EventNumber3: 42
Event3: 200 free
EntryTime3: 2:03.33 SCY

EventNumber4: 50
Event4: 100 breast
EntryTime4: 1:14.62 = Bonus

EventNumber5: 78
Event5: 100 fly
EntryTime5: 1:07.86 = Bonus

EventNumber6: 86
Event6: 50 free
EntryTime6: 25.09 SCY

Front Squat

2009-04-29T18:42:00.001-07:00

50-meter fly

2009-04-29T16:58:00.001-07:00

Michael Phelps trying out new freestyle technique when he returns to competition - ESPN

2009-04-27T19:10:00.000-07:00

Michael Phelps trying out new freestyle technique when he returns to competition - ESPN: "Phelps set to return to competition"

Auburn Takes Title No. 8 - NCAA OFFICIAL ATHLETIC SITE

2009-04-01T09:40:00.000-07:00

Auburn Takes Title No. 8 - NCAA OFFICIAL ATHLETIC SITE: "The Auburn men's swimming and diving program captured its eighth national championship in program history and gave head coach Richard Quick his record 13th national title in the sport, including his first at Auburn, Saturday at the Texas A&M Student Recreation Natatorium.

Auburn finished the meet with 526 points, 39 ahead of second place Texas. The Tigers entered the Saturday's finals session six points behind the Longhorns, however a strong preliminary swim earlier in the day gave Auburn the upper hand entering the finals.

Quick, who is the first coach to win a national title at three schools, is battling an inoperable brain tumor that was diagnosed in December 2008. Quick was not in College Station for the championships, as the Tigers were directed by assistant Brett Hawke who has led the program since Quick's diagnosis."

Hundreds more apply for on-campus housing - News

2009-03-09T05:51:00.000-07:00

Hundreds more apply for on-campus housing - News: "Three hundred more students applied to live in GW housing next year, an increase that housing officials attribute to a new University residence hall and the worsening economic conditions. The increase coincides with lower housing rates next year for some underclassmen."

2009-03-05T10:22:00.001-08:00

More races: http://Viddler.com/rauterkus

G.W. scholarship insights

2009-02-25T06:02:00.000-08:00

The Graduate School of Political Management at The George Washington University, a school of practical politics located in the heart of DC, is proud to announce the first annual The Undergraduate Political Achievement Fellowship Program!

These fellowships will be awarded in four categories:
1. Outstanding Achievement in Undergraduate Student Government Campaigning
2. National Student Advocate of the Year
3. Excellence and Innovation in Political Media
4. Most Promising Student Campaigner

One fellow will be chosen in each category, and will receive a $10,000 scholarship.

The deadline is April 1st. For more information, rules and regulations, go to http://gspm.org/fellowships.

Swim Races at B Champs at North Allegheny HS Pool

2009-02-20T10:42:00.000-08:00

500 free:

BB Entries

2009-02-15T17:19:00.001-08:00

These were entries for BBs

Erik Rauterkus (14) JCCS-AM

# 8 Men 200 Free 2:15.15Y

# 18 Men 13-14 100 Breast 1:16.27Y

# 22 Men 13-14 100 Free 58.39Y

# 56 Men 200 Breast 2:47.74Y

# 64 Men 50 Free 26.38Y

# 76 Men 500 Free 5:56.52Y

Update

Erik Rauterkus (14) JCCS-AM

# 8 Men 200 Free was: 2:15.15Y SHOULD BE 2:05.47

# 18 Men 13-14 100 Breast WAS 1:16.27Y SHOULD BE 1:14.62

# 22 Men 13-14 100 Free 58.39Y (NO CHANGE)

# 56 Men 200 Breast WAS 2:47.74Y SHOULD BE: 2:43.81

# 64 Men 50 Free 26.38Y (NO CHANGE)

# 76 Men 500 Free WAS 5:56.52Y SHOULD BE: 5:38.64

200 IM = 2:23.52 (B Champs results)
splits were, fly= 31.28 + 1:10.52 (39) + 1:52.30 (42) + 2:23.42 (31).

Our Sunday Mornings are filled with RE

2009-02-07T18:31:00.000-08:00

B Champ Entries for Erik and Grant

2009-01-31T14:47:00.000-08:00

Erik Rauterkus (14) JCCS-AM

# 27 Men 13 & Over 100 Breast 1:16.27Y

# 30 Men 13 & Over 200 Free 2:16.88Y

# 33 Men 13 & Over 200 Back 2:33.33Y

# 36 Men 13 & Over 200 Fly 2:41.23Y

# 64 Men 13 & Over 200 IM 2:34.05Y Result = 2:23.52

# 73 Men 13 & Over 100 Fly 1:16.33Y Result = 1:07.86

# 76 Men 13 & Over 200 Breast 2:47.74Y Result = 2:43.81
splits were 37.26 + 1:19.89 (42) + 2:03.07 (43) + 2:43.81 (40)

# 82 Men 13 & Over 500 Free 5:56.52Y Results = 5:38.64
splits were:
30.07 + 33.68 = 1:03.85
34.39 + 34.02 =
34.39 + 34.48
34.85 + 34.66
34.64 + 32.15 = 5:38.64

Grant Rauterkus (11) JCCS-AM

#2 Men 11-12 100 Free 1:10.99Y Results = 1.08.92 (BB cut is 1:07.89)

#5 Men 11-12 50 Back 38.11Y

#8 Men 11-12 100 Breast 1:45.70Y

# 17 Men 11-12 200 Free 2:32.14Y

# 44 Men 11-12 200 IM 3:03.06Y

# 47 Men 11-12 50 Free 32.33Y

# 50 Men 11-12 50 Breast 47.93Y

# 53 Men 11-12 100 Back 1:24.55Y

BYUCougars.com - BYU Swimming and Diving Feature Article

2009-01-21T09:24:00.000-08:00

BYUCougars.com - BYU Swimming and Diving Feature Article: "This past summer, Gregor was privileged to compete at the Olympic Trials for the 2008 Olympic Summer Games in Beijing.

“I have never been to a more intense swim meet in my life,” said Gregor. “The energy in the building was incredible and the production was just amazing. No one ever makes a production for swimming, but they had light shows and fireworks—usually they just give us a pool and say, ‘Go!’”

He explained that it wasn’t uncomfortable for him to walk around with the likes of Michael Phelps, Jason Lezak and other big swimmers. He said he had raced all of those guys before and trained with the majority of them.

However, Olympic Trials weren’t all that he was hoping they would be. Even though Greiner had a great experience, he had a disappointing swim.

“I didn’t improve at all,” Greiner said. “I didn’t come anywhere close to where I wanted to be. I haven’t reached my potential and I want to see where that is.”

Greiner has the goal of making it to the Olympic Summer Games in 2012 and will continue to train after his senior year of swimming at BYU."

One day, perhaps.

2009-01-15T10:29:00.001-08:00

Otto M. Stanfield Law Scholarship

The Otto M. Stanfield Law Scholarship was established by Marion Barr Stanfield in memory of her husband. It is available to Unitarian Universalist students entering or attending law school at the graduate level. Pre-law or political science majors are not eligible. The amount and number of scholarships awarded may vary each year.

The Otto M. Stanfield Legal Scholarship is available to Unitarian Universalist students entering or in law school. Pre-law students are not eligible.

Shows every flight in the world

2009-01-05T08:48:00.001-08:00

The map of the Internet

2009-01-04T17:26:00.000-08:00

The map of the Internet: "The map of the Internet"

Erik loves maps.

Making Music on Grant Street

2008-12-15T11:01:00.001-08:00

From Mark Rauterkus & Running Mates ponder current events

Lance Armstrong says he'll ride in 2009 Tour de France

2008-12-01T12:14:00.000-08:00

ESPN - Lance Armstrong says he'll ride in 2009 Tour de France: "Lance Armstrong will ride in the 2009 Tour de France, marking the first time he will compete in that race and the Giro d'Italia in the same year.
'I'm committed to riding for the best guy,' Armstrong said Monday, acknowledging the taxing schedule could leave him riding in a supporting role in France. Armstrong's Astana team includes 2007 Tour winner Alberto Contador and is loaded with other talented riders."

Morning Swim Show from Swimming World

2008-11-28T13:54:00.001-08:00

California Bike Fest 2008

2008-11-21T09:26:00.000-08:00

California Bike Fest 2008: "California BikeFest
Tel: 312-543-4127
Fax: 805-557-1277
info@cabikefest.comCalifornia BikeFest
Tel: 312-543-4127
Fax: 805-557-1277
info@cabikefest.com"

Team's x-country banquet is tonight

2008-11-06T04:00:00.000-08:00

Bird's Nest as Back Drop

2008-11-05T11:38:00.000-08:00

Spanish friend in brief meeting in Beijing

2008-10-31T12:59:00.000-07:00

PMA Chamber Orchestra

2008-10-22T18:17:00.001-07:00

You are invited to audition for the Pittsburgh Music Academy Chamber Orchestra! This brand new orchestra will be conducted by Lawrence Loh, Resident Conductor of the Pittsburgh Symphony! This is a WONDERFUL opportunity to perform in a special concert celebrating Pittsburgh's 250 anniversary on May 9, 2009. Rehearsals will be held on the first Sunday of every month from 7 to 8 pm in Carnegie, with more rehearsals as the concert date nears.

Auditions for the Chamber Orchestra will be held on Saturday, November 8 at the Pittsburgh Music Academy in Carnegie. The address is 1100 Washington Avenue, Suite 111, Carnegie, PA 15106. The requirements for the audition are:

1) A solo piece
2) Scales of your choice
3) Sight-reading

Erik for Student Council President at Frick Middle School

2008-10-21T08:56:00.000-07:00

The presentation is slated for this week.

Frick Cross Country

2008-10-15T15:17:00.000-07:00

The Frick girls who ran in the city championships.

Entries for this Sunday's meet at Woodland Hills

2008-10-13T07:56:00.000-07:00

Erik Rauterkus (14) JCCS-AM, did the meet on Sunday. Also did Sunday AM swim practice from 6:30 to 7:45. He has been sick with a clogged chest for his third week now. Ouch.

Some of the others with the chest thing have been saying it has taken many weeks to clear. So, that is good they are with the same. Erik is getting a bit better, but he isn't really that well and not in top form, for sure.

Perhaps by WED of this week he'll be feeling stronger for the cross-country championship meet?

# 94 Men 13-14 200 Breast = seed time of 2:52.92Y.
Swam 2:53.19 y

37.6
1.22.6 = 44.6
2:09.? = 46.3
2:53.19 = 44.7 = 1st place. Nice finish of 6 strokes.
Regular troubles with late kick, low leg flexibility, stuck on wall at turns, break strokes just float up to surface, fast forward, streamlined recovery.

# 98 Men 13-14 50 Free = seed time of 27.09Y
Did 27.91. At 12 yards was already a body length behind leader and half body length behind the field.

# 110, 13-14 500 free = seed time of 5:56.52Y
Did 6:05.78

31.9
35.9 = 1:07.9
36.7
36.5 = 2:21. (1:13)
36.5
38.2 = (1:15.7)
37.9
37.7 = 4:51.61 (1:15.+)
38.1
36.4 = (1:14.5) = 6:05.78

Says from lap 9 he was choking.

This week he'll not swim on Monday but will swim on Tuesday. Meet is right after lunch on WED. Then he'll swim again after the X-C meet.

First Parade w Violin on Oct 11

2008-10-03T10:19:00.000-07:00

It's official. The Extreme Strings Orchestra will perform on Saturday October 11, 2008 as part of the annual Columbus Day Parade. The event is scheduled to start at 11:00 AM and wind it's way through the Bloomfield section of Pittsburgh. Starting location is at Liberty Avenue and Baum Blvd. on the border with Shadyside and will finish at the Bloomfield Bridge. We don't do any Italian music yet but we will be rocking with our newest tunes "Back In Black" by AC/DC and one of my fiddle tune originals "Grand Canyon Jump" as well as all of our Jazz, Rock , and Fiddling favorites.. You are invited to line the parade route and cheer us on

By the way, we got off to a great start in our first "unofficial" session this past weekend. The kids sounded great and we worked on a bunch of new tunes.

Any student can join as early as this Saturday. Come on down to CAPA before 9:00 AM so we can talk to you and introduce what we are doing. There is much more information on our web site http://www.extremestrings.com/Site/Home.html

This event is open to all ex-XSO'ers and graduates

Weight-lifting mistakes lead to injuries - Los Angeles Times

2008-09-03T09:52:00.000-07:00

Weight-lifting mistakes lead to injuries - Los Angeles Times: "Weight-lifting mistakes lead to injuries"

Erik's entry to Summer Celebration

2008-05-25T21:09:00.000-07:00

Erik P. Rauterkus
Sex: M

MetName: Summer Celebration

MeeDate: June 20, 21, 22

EventNumber1: 6
Event1: 200 free
EntryTime1: 2.15.99 = SCY
EventNumber2: 22
Event2: 50 free
EntryTime2: 32.05 = LC
EventNumber3: 46
Event3: 200 IM
EntryTime3: 2.33.05 = SCY
EventNumber4: 68
Event4: 100 free
EntryTime4: 1.12.03 = LC

Frick Musical in Progress!

2008-03-24T12:01:00.000-07:00

With the frick's musicals cast list just being announced I have been given the part of Freddie Dean. The musical is titled Gone With the Breeze. The musical is based on the casting for gone with the wind. It is a live fun musical with great songs and good actors. The musical will be May 15th through the 17th. Tickets have not come on sale yet.

WPTS Radio Summer Program

2008-03-07T09:36:00.000-08:00

WPTS Radio Summer Program: "WPTS Radio Summer Program"

Video Archives - Laurie Lawrence

2008-02-18T13:06:00.000-08:00

Video Archives - Laurie Lawrence: "Honor coach Laurie Lawrence is a remarkable Australian - a maker of champions, capable of lifting the spirits of those around him to soaring heights."

Women's 100 Back World Record Progressions;

2008-02-17T16:14:00.001-08:00

From Swimming World's site on the day that Natalie C set a new world record:

Progressions
1:36.7 Doris Hart ENG Gothenburg 7/6/1923
1:35.0 J. Mullerova TCH Prague 7/29/1923
1:26.6 Sybil Bauer USA Newark 8/8/1923
1:22.4 Sybil Bauer USA Miami 1/6/1924
1:22.0 Willy van den Turk NETH Rotterdam 7/10/1927
1:21.6 Marie Braun NETH Amsterdam 8/11/1928
1:21.4 Marie Braun NETH Brussels 4/1/1921
1:21.0 Marie Braun NETH Gravenhage 11/27/1929
1:20.6 Bonnie Mealing AUS Sydney 2/27/1930
1:18.6 Phyllis Harding GBR Wallasey 5/30/1932
1:18.2 Eleanor Holm USA Jones Beach 7/16/1932
1:16.8 Rie Mastenbroek NETH Dusseldorf 11/25/1934
1:16.3 Eleanor Holm USA Chicago 1/15/1935
1:15.8 Rie Mastenbroek NETH Amsterdam 2/27/1936
1:15.7 Dina Senff NETH Copenhagen 9/8/1936
1:15.4 Dina Senff NETH Copenhagen 9/10/1936
1:13.6 Dina Senff NETH Dusseldorf 10/25/1936
1:13.5 Cor Knit NETH Copenhagen 11/1/1938
1:13.2 Iet van Feggelen NETH Amsterdam 11/10/1938
1:13.0 Iet van Feggelen NETH Gravenhage 11/12/1938
1:12.9 Iet van Feggelen NETH Antwerp 11/26/1938
1:10.9^ Cor Knit NETH Rotterdam 9/22/1939
1:12.9 Judith Grinham GBR Melborune 12/5/1956
1:12.5y Phillipa Gould NZL Auckland 3/12/1958
1:12.4y Margaret Edwards GBR Cardiff 4/19/1958
1:12.3 Ria von Velson HOL Nijmegen 7/20/1958
1:11.9y Judith Grinham GBR Cardiff 7/23/1958
1:11.7 Ria van Velson NED Waalwijk 7/26/1959
1:11.4 Carin Cone USA Chicago 11/6/1959
1:11.0 Ria von Velson NED Leipzig 6/12/1960
1:10.9 Ria von Velson NED Maastricht 7/10/1960
1:10.1 Lynn Burke USA Indianapolis 7/17/1960
1:10.0 Lynn Burke USA Detroit 8/4/1960
1:09.2 Lynn Burke USA Detroit 8/5/1960
1:09.0 Lynn Burke USA Rome 9/2/1960
1:08.9 Donna de Varona USA Los Angeles 7/28/1963
1:08.6 Christine Caron FRA Paris 6/14/1964
1:08.3 Virginia Duenkel USA Los Angeles 9/28/1964
1:07.7 Catherine Ferguson USA Tokyo 10/14/1964
1:07.4 Ann Fairlie SAF Beziers 7/23/1966
1:07.3 Elaine Tanner CAN Winnipeg 7/27/1967
1:07.1 Elaine Tanner CAN Winnipeg 7/30/1967
1:06.7 Karen Muir SAF Kimberley 1/30/1968
1:06.4 Karen Muir SAF Paris 4/6/1968
1:06.2 Kaye Hall USA Mexico City 10/23/1968
1:05.6 Karen Muir SAF Utrecht 7/6/1969
1:05.39 Ulrike Richter GDR Utrecht 8/18/1973
1:04.99r Ulrike Richter GDR Belgrade 9/4/1973
1:04.78 Gwendolyn Cook CAN Christchurch 1/31/1974
1:04.43 Ulrike Richter GDR Rostock 7/8/1974
1:04.09 Ulrike Richter GDR Vienna 8/22/1974
1:03.30 Ulrike Richter GDR Vienna 8/23/1974
1:02.98 Ulrike Richter GDR Concord 9/1/1974
1:02.60 Ulrike Richter GDR Tallin 3/14/1976
1:01.62 Kornelia Ender GDR Berlin 6/3/1976
1:01.51 Ulrike Richter GDR Berlin 6/5/1976
1:01.51e Rica Reinisch GDR Moscow 7/20/1980
1:01.50 Rica Reinisch GDR Moscow 7/22/1980
1:00.86 Rica Reinisch GDR Moscow 7/23/1980
1:00.59r Ina Kleber GDR Moscow 8/24/1984
1:00.31^ Krisztina Egerszegi HUN Athens 8/22/1991
1:00.16r Cihong He CHN Rome 9/10/1994
59.58 Natalie Coughlin USA Ft. Lauderdale 8/13/2002
59.44 Natalie Coughlin USA Melbourne 3/27/2007
59.21 Natalie Coughlin USA Columbia 2/17/2008

Erik's swim banquet is Thursday

2008-02-12T06:41:00.000-08:00

The banquet is slated for Thursday night, here.

Meet entries

2008-02-05T06:04:00.000-08:00

The B meet is in two weeks. The BB meet is a week after that.

These are the entered events and seed times.

B Meet
Rauterkus, Erik (13) JCCS-AM
# 24 Men 13 & Over100 Free 1:00.81Y
# 27 Men 13 & Over100 Breast 1:21.42Y
# 30 Men 13 & Over200 Free 2:19.48Y
# 64 Men 13 & Over200 IM 2:39.99Y
# 67 Men 13 & Over50 Free 27.64Y
# 76 Men 13 & Over200 Breast 2:59.43Y

BB-Meet
Rauterkus, Erik (13) JCCS-AM
# 22 Men 13-14 100 Free 1:00.81Y
# 62 Men 13-14 50 Free 27.64Y

At the city's middle school meet, Erik swam the 50 breast and the 50 free. Those times are not permitted in the USA Swimming as valid proof of times. But there, Erik swam a 26.7 in the 50 free.

More music

2008-01-18T10:02:00.000-08:00

We start tomorrow morning so we are looking for you all. Bring your Jazz Fiddle Wizard Book and all the sheet music we have given you so far.

Here are some cool videos of new string groups you can check out to get your fired up for 2008 -

http://hk.youtube.com/watch?v=fgaLlzo8UxY&feature=related

http://hk.youtube.com/watch?v=2GFWKE2H6YU&feature=related

http://hk.youtube.com/watch?v=bFIxo5kNLvw&feature=related

http://hk.youtube.com/watch?v=GTirMF5J9WQ&feature=related

Extreme Strings resumes for new year on Saturday

2008-01-16T09:38:00.001-08:00

We are excited to get the Extreme Strings Orchestra off to a running start this Saturday January 19. We expect many of our veteran players back as well as new faces, new teachers, new music, and refreshed energy.

Anyone interested in being part of our group should come to CAPA High School at the corner of 9th St. and Fort Duquesne Blvd Downtown Pittsburgh. We are the second Floor and are not hard to find. Try to be there before 9:00 so we can meet and give you some idea what we will be doing. Bring your instrument and be ready to play some fun music.

This week we will be doing some of the new Yamaha music arrangements, refreshing some old favorites, playing the Yamaha Silent Electric Violins, Violas, Cellos, and Bass we have, and also looking at new BOWFIRE DVD we purchased.

For those of you who cannot attend you can see the new BOWFIRE PBS special on WQED-TV Pittsburgh Sunday morning at 9:30. Don't miss it. Fantastic ! They will be in town on at Heinz Hall April 28 and we hope to coordinate some activities with them while they are here.

Don't worry if you cannot come this Saturday. We will be meeting almost every Saturday from now through early May. Come anytime but you might check with us before you come down to make sure we are there.

For more information on schedule, tuition, activities, special guests, sound samples, and now video go to
http://www.extremestrings.com/Site/Home.html
.

More news soon. In the meantime we will continue to be dedicated to playing, teaching, and learning the great American music styles of Jazz, Rock, and Fiddling.
--
Steven Vance
Executive Director

Yamaha Certified String Educator

EXTREME STRINGS ACADEMY
2549 Penn Ave
Pittsburgh PA 15222
http://www.extremestrings.com

Jazz, Rock and Fiddling
Teaching, Learning and Playing Great American Music

Swimming to a PB in 100 free

2008-01-10T07:03:00.001-08:00

Erik swam the 100 free at the Frick Middle School meet at PCA. His time was 1:00.7. His best time before that had been a 1:03.

The team had AM practice on WED, the day of a meet. The meet was a 'make up' from last week. So, this week the Frick team has had meets on Tue, Wed and Thursday. Today's is at Allegheny Middle School on the North Side next to the National Aviary.

This weekend Erik and Grant compete in a USA Swimming Meet at Fox Chapel.

Erik has gone all season without getting 2nd place.

At school -- there have been tryouts for the spring musical. Since the swimmers were at meets, they have been getting out of some classes to do the audition. Each swings and reads from a script that was provided. Erik sang a do-whop tune, "Goodnight Sweetheart."

Hundreds Turn Out For Annual Pittsburgh 'Polar Bear Jump' - Pittsburgh News Story - WTAE Pittsburgh

2008-01-02T06:06:00.000-08:00

Erik was there with a classmate.

Hundreds Turn Out For Annual Pittsburgh 'Polar Bear Jump' - Pittsburgh News Story - WTAE Pittsburgh Hundreds of people gathered at the Mon Wharf Tuesday morning for the city's annual 'Polar Bear Jump.'

Snow flakes filled the air a few minutes later. It was cold!

Mom and Erik - at Sunnyhill

2007-12-25T17:07:00.000-08:00

Erik has a new teacher in Spanish, again

2007-11-10T06:46:00.000-08:00

Frick Middle School is a language school. The teaching there in foreign languages has been poor.

Erik has a new teacher this year. He had four or more teachers in Spanish last year. The new teacher asked the parents to write a million words or less about their scholars. Here is what Catherine wrote about Erik.

Greetings-

It was nice to get your request regarding my thoughts about Erik Rauterkus (my son). I've copied my husband into this email so he will know what I wrote and so that he can add his two cents if he'd like.

First, I would like to say that Erik is thrilled that there has been a chance in instruction in Spanish. Before I give my thoughts on Erik, I would like to give you my thoughts on Spanish instruction at Frick. I am not only fairly certain that Erik has not learned any new Spanish since arriving at Frick, I am fairly certain that he has lost some of what he had leaving elementary school. Erik is a fairly serious student and I know that Spanish class has been a distressing part of his day primarily because he feels that the students are out of control and show no respect toward this subject/instructor. I hope we will see a dramatic change with your arrival.

If you need any help at all I hope you will call on us. My husband stays home with our children and certainly could be available if you need parent support in your classroom.

So, on to my thoughts about Erik. Erik is our oldest child (we have a nine year old son as well). Erik just turned 13 and continues to be a kind, thoughtful young man (most of the time) which is a pleasure as everyone warns us what a "teenager" can be like.

He loves Frick - pretty much everything about it other than the past atmosphere in Spanish class. He has really enjoyed being involved in whatever he can sign up for which has included running for student council president (he lost but clearly enjoyed the process). Most recently he announced that he will be trying out for the school musical. He has a delightful group of friends who he met on the swim team last year. Again, this seems to be a kind, fun, thoughtful group of kids who engage in interesting conversations with adults and other kids.

Erik is a competitive, year round swimmer (he competed in the junior olympics this summer in two events). Erik's Dad is a swim coach so I guess he comes by this naturally. Erik swims for approximately 2-3 hours every night but Thursday (with one practice at 6:30am on Sundays). Erik also plays violin which he enjoys some of the time (he really enjoys playing blues, jazz, etc.; doesn't enjoy classical music as much).

Erik is a very focussed child (perhaps a typical first child). He spent the summer googling college programs and seems to have decided that he will be going to college at George Washington University for political science/economics and then on to either Harvard or Georgetown for law school and then on to a career in politics. Erik loves to follow and talk about politics. Mark (Erik's Dad) is a political activist in the city so perhaps he comes by this naturally as well.

Erik seems to have aptitude for science and math (he currently is involved in the science group that will be submitting projects regionally). I'm a scientist at Pitt so maybe he comes by this naturally, too. He seems to have less of an aptitude for languages, but certainly puts good effort into all of his classes.

I find Erik's humor to be very engaging and I truly enjoying talking to him about a variety of topics. Erik loves to read non-fiction so he tends to have interesting (if not very strong) opinions on a variety of topics.

Our boys are very lucky because with their Dad home, we have a very relaxed household. There isn't stress about work hours, picking kids up, etc. We've also been very lucky to live abroad for about two months every year for the past four years (2 trips to mainland China, one trip to Hong Kong, and one trip to New Zealand). This has given Erik a fairly large world view.

Welcome to Frick. I hope the rest of the school year goes well. Again, please let us know if we can assist you in any way.

Catherine Palmer (Rauterkus)

Wild deer jumps into polar bear tank at Pittsburgh Zoo

2007-11-09T18:25:00.000-08:00

Wild deer jumps into polar bear tank at Pittsburgh Zoo: "Wild deer jumps into polar bear tank at Pittsburgh Zoo"

Erik for President

2007-09-25T14:00:00.001-07:00

Click. It is short.

We hope to be in China for the 2008 Olympics

2007-09-12T09:45:00.000-07:00

We're hopeful we'll be attending the Olympics in 2008 in China.

View Album

Get your own

Big brother on the inside.

2007-08-24T21:36:00.000-07:00

Some times, 3 is a crowd.

Interesting week end of swimming

2007-07-15T16:37:00.001-07:00

The boys and I had an interesting two days of swimming. More interesting days and meets are to come in the days ahead as well.

Saturday and Sunday, July was the Allegheny Mountain Swimming "B Championships" swim meet (USA Swimming) at North Park, outdoor, 50-meter pool. And, on Saturday, the summer team, Crafton, went to Mt. Lebo for a dual meet.

Hard decisions were made -- by myself, the dad and coach of the boys. The boys needed to go to the B Championships -- for both days and they'd need to skip out of the dual meet with the summer team.

You can't be at two places the same time.

I was going to go to the Mt. Lebo meet in the morning and then head to the long-course meet at North Park to join the boys who would be there swimming earlier. But Coach Mike, the club and Crafton coach, excused me from the Crafton meet to go with the boys to be at the USA Meet.

Going into the Saturday morning meet, Coach Mike was worried. The team was missing some families on vacations. Other conflicts were floating in too. The squad on Saturday morning's dual meet was not at full strength. The undefeated season (and seasons) was on the line.

Well, the dual meet ended and Mt. Lebo won -- by 18 points. We found out on Saturday at noon or so as another swimmer from Mt. Lebo was also at the B-Champs and her mom, also a swim coach, had come to North Park. I saw the Lebo t-shirt and asked about the meet's outcome.

First place in a summer dual meet is worth 6 points. At the last dual meet, Erik and Grant both swam 3 events, each with first place finishes. Total points 18 per, 36 total.

In a swim meet, the point total isn't that great as adjustment are made in the rankings of second place and such -- but -- to say the least, with Erik and Grant missing the dual meet, it was enough to tip the meet's outcome.

New ENTRY information for BB CHAMPS:

Four NEW events for 2 swimmers. Swimmers already in other events in the meet.

Erik P. Rauterkus, 12, CAR

Event # 12, boys 11-12, 100 fly, time = 1:29.10 L (from B Champs)

Grant P. Rauterkus, 9, CAR

Event # 16, boys 10-under, 50 BACK, 49.80 L (from 50 split in 100 back from B Champs)

Event # 48, boys 10-under, 100 back, 1:47.00 L (from B Champs)

Event # 55, boys 10-under, 100 free, 1:28.15 L (from B champs)

Erik swam a 400 free (5:53.07) at the very end of the meet today. He made a BB cut by 3 seconds. However, the 400 free for 11-12s is NOT a part of the BB Championship Meet format. Plus, he is already entered into four events on Sunday.

I do NOT expect our entry to arrive via Hi-TEK format for these additional events as the summer team is in a meet on MONDAY night (rain date make-up) with Green Tree and they'll be working hard to get those entry/cards/line-up resolved.

FYI: Our team's entry person is: Amy Schneiderlochner, Carlynton Swim Club

Erik's new times:

200 FLY, 3:26.84 long course -- B Champs, July 2007

50 back, 50.50 long course - B Champs, July 2007

50 back, 47.8 long course - B Champs, July 2007 (split in 100 back)

200 back, 3:35.69 long course - B Champs, July 2007

100 back, 1:43.83 long course - B Champs, July 2007

100 fly, 1:29.10, long course - B Champs, July 2007

400 free, 5:53.07 long course - B Champs, July 2007

Grant's new times:

100 free 1:28.15 long course, B Champs, July 2007

50 back, 53.53 long course, B Champs, July 2007
50 back, 49.80 long course, B Champs (split in the 100 back), July 2007

100 breast, 2:08.32 long course, B-Champs, July 2007

50 fly, 53.33, long course, B-Champs, July 2007

200 I.M. 3:47.58 long course * D.Qed on wiggle on start - Use for seed time for WV State Meet (Grant would have got first place) - was a BB cut too!

100 back, 1:47.00, long course, B Champs, July 2007

50 breast, 57.46 long course, B Champs, July 2007

100 fly, 2:00.2 long course, B Champs, July 2007

Punting has nothing to do with football

2007-06-05T14:41:00.001-07:00

From NZ Punting

Four legged one was in the Lord of the Rings movies

2007-06-04T18:40:00.000-07:00

We have had weekly violin lessons and try to practice daily

2007-05-20T01:24:00.000-07:00

Our violin teacher has taught us a new song. Another new one is expected for next week too. She has some interesting tricks of the trade on different skills too.

Photos from the Lord of the Rings tour

2007-05-15T02:17:00.000-07:00

From lord of the r...

More than 100 photos are now online in the album.

Birds of all sorts are here

2007-05-14T17:01:00.001-07:00

Here is a little more about what we are doing in New Zealand.

2007-05-11T18:08:00.000-07:00

Erik wrote, mostly:

We got bikes and now can bike around the city. It is lots of fun to bike all over the city.

We went to a place called Willowbank. It is a place where they have lots of animals that are native and animals that were brought to

New Zealand

. There were lots more animals that were brought to NZ then there were native to NZ. Tonight we are going back to Willowbank to see a Maori show. New Zealand has no native people or mammals. Some arrived sooner than others.

Two of the most popular symbols of the country are the silver fern and the kiwi. Both reside at Willowbank. The silver fern is a plant with one side of the leaf is green, as one would expect. But turn over the fern’s leaf and the underside is silver.

The kiwi is a bird that can not fly. The kiwi was able to thrive in New Zealand, in part, because it did not have many predators. There was a huge eagle that is now extinct. That eagle had claws the size of a tiger’s and a three-meter wing span. It was the largest eagle in the world and was known to pluck up children under the age of 10. So, I imagine that the kiwi could have been a nice snack for that eagle. But, the kiwi was safe from snakes and reptiles as there are none in

New Zealand

. The kiwi is nocturnal and is just one of the many native birds to NZ. Both the fern and the kiwi are huge symbols on many designs and logos.

A violin teacher came to the house the other day. She is very nice. We are learning a Maori violin tune and maybe we will even hear it tonight as we attend the Maori presentation / show at Willowbank.

Update from Erik

2007-05-08T13:38:00.000-07:00

Hi,

Here in New Zealand it is the Wednesday the 7th. I am having a blast and I would like to thank Uncle Bob, Caz, Grandma, and all the other people how have kept me updated it has been lots of fun. I had so much fun at the rugby game here are the basic rules for the game. You have to pass the ball backwards like a lateral in football. You can kick the ball down the field when ever you like. The play is continues until there are 5 downs. To be down you have to have the ball and you pinned to the flour. Uncle Bob so you scored a touchdown in rugby with some one on you back pretty impressive. The French rugby team is one of the best in the world and they are hosting the 07 rugby world cup.

When we went swimming with dolphins it was so cool. Since the water is coming strait up from Antarctica the water is very cold so we had to get the proper gear on. We put on 2 wetsuits with bootees glove and a face coverer we also had goggles and snorkels.

When we went out and saw lots of Hector dolphins the rarest and smallest dolphins in the world. We saw lots of outer wild life also. There were no Hector’s that wanted to swim. Then when we were about to go in there were 3 dolphins that came up to the bout and we jumped right in. it was so cool to see dolphins only a foot away from you under water and on top of water. One thing that I will never forget is I turned my head around and the only 6 in. away were these 2 dolphins side by side it was amazing.

We also went to Arthur’s pass by train and hiked around Arthur’s pass. The train ride is called Transalpine and it is rated in the top 5 most scenic trips in the world. It definitely was one of the most scenic trips I have ever been on the beautiful foot hill and then the out stunning Alps. There is so much vegetation it was amazing. When Captain Cook arrived in New Zealand they say he found over 1,000 new plants that no won had ever found before. It is so beautiful here in New Zealand.

That’s it for now I will tell you more another day.

This is Erik

Erik swam the 50-yard free at the League Meet

2007-05-07T03:25:00.000-07:00

Erik's time was 29.13.

2007-05-07T01:43:00.000-07:00

Hi Mike,

We're all doing well in New Zealand. The boys are on a swim team. We'll be able to swim in a few meets too.

One is a two day meet in Dunedin. The other is a developmental meet at our home pool.

I have taken two days (in the first week) of swim coaching / swim teaching training. I think I'm going to go to the New Zealand coaches conference for a few days in a few more weeks.

So, I'm going to have a new bag of tricks upon our return. Some of this stuff is very interesting. Some is very much what we do already.

We have rented 3 bikes (boys and me). We get to bike all around town.

We swam with the dolphins too. That was right at the edge of the coast out this harbor. Lots of excitement there.

Our swimming is in 25 meter pools. There is an indoor 50 meter pool -- but it is about a 1-hour bike ride from here. Too far for daily trips. Plus, it gets dark here about 6 pm.

Team URL is

http://www.wharenui.co.nz

But it is said as Far-a-new-ee. The Wha is pronounced as "F" --- go figure.

Most impressive are the swim lessons. I've posted some photos at my blog.

Oh, we went to a rugby game too. The local professional team is called the Crusaders. They lost the last regular season game sadly. Now they are in the final 4 of the playoffs, but have to travel to South Africa (vs. Petronia) for the first round of playoffs. Ten of the players on this team are past or present members of the famous New Zealand "All Blacks" -- a national All-Star team.

Grant and Erik are in different workout groups, but with the same coach. Erik was leading his lane today. Grant is one of the smallest guys in the lanes. Their practices are short -- but with 6 or more in a lane. The team has 5 coaches and 200 kids. But there are always 8 or 9 teachers on deck and in the water at any time. There is an 8 lane 25 meter pool, 3 lane teaching pool and 1 lane tiny teaching pool -- all jammed in a building with about 4 feet of deck space around the edges.

Larsen Jensen blogs from Melbourne - Sports - NBCSports.com

2007-03-29T20:12:00.000-07:00

Larsen Jensen blogs from Melbourne - Sports - NBCSports.com: "Day 5 of Competition: Enthusiasm still strong"

Team Scores from the Championship Meet

2007-03-20T18:22:00.000-07:00

Combined Team Scores

Place Team Points

1 Grove City YMCA Royal Dolphins GCY 1,424 . 50

2 Blackhawk Cougar Aquatic Team BCAT 1,270

3 Carlynton Swim Club CSC 1,244

4 Kingsley Stingrays KSTR 744

5 Slippery Rock Eels SRST 738 . 50

6 Hopewell Area Aqua Club HAAC 651

7 Riverside Aqua Club OF Ellwood RACE 573

8 Deer Lakes Aquatic Club DLAC 391

9 Northgate Aquatics Club NGAC 168

10 Hubbard Aquatic Club HAC 130

11 Oxford Athletic Club OXFD 127

12 Farrell Area School District FASD 68

Total 7,529.00

Erik and classmates head to Harrisburg

2007-03-14T09:01:00.000-07:00

From violin-gang

Soaking in the city, San Francisco

2007-01-29T17:09:00.000-08:00

Patriots can't go to the SuperBowl

2007-01-21T20:17:00.000-08:00

We watched the game. It went late, after 10 pm. We didn't use the Patriots plates and cups -- and should have.

Heartbroken -- not quite. Just sleepy now.

Sad times. Loss of a grandparent.

2007-01-04T17:24:00.000-08:00

Grandpa -- Rest In Peace. Born 73 years ago. Passed away tonight in Maine, after waiting for his children (Bob and Catherine) to arrive. We're here in Pittsburgh, missing you.

First Frick Meet

2006-12-07T10:53:00.000-08:00

This photo gives a peek at a pending school science project. Click the link to the album to see swim team photos and videos.

From Frick-swim

Lions Claim They Spoiled Patriots' Season | The Onion - America's Finest News Source

2006-12-07T08:39:00.000-08:00

Lions Claim They Spoiled Patriots' Season | The Onion - America's Finest News Source Lions Claim They Spoiled Patriots' Season

December 7, 2006 | Onion Sports

DETROIT—Jubilant Lions fans, players, and coaches alike continue to ride the wave of good feelings and positive thinking that began after the team lost by only a single touchdown to the talented and efficient New England Patriots Sunday, a fact they say negates anything else the Patriots achieve this season. 'For a team like ours to hold a lead against a team like that going into the fourth quarter… As far as we're concerned, an era ended with that game,' Lions GM Matt Millen said Monday. 'Tom Brady had to pull 15 points out of nowhere to beat us, didn't he? That's the sort of last-minute heroics that can haunt a team forever.' Patriots coach Bill Belichick, while not willing to declare the Patriots' season a washout, admitted disappointment that his team 'wound up playing that three-ring retard circus of a joke team so damn close.'

Sub :30 in the 50 free! Sub 1:10 in the 100 free!

2006-12-04T07:08:00.000-08:00

We won our swim meet on Saturday!

The first swim meet for Frick Middle School is Wednesday.

Frick Middle School swim calendar

2006-12-01T06:27:00.000-08:00

If you'd like to update the calendar, ask to be a contributor. Send an email to Mark -at- Rauterkus -dot- com.

Erik's first week of AM & PM swims at Frick

2006-12-01T06:20:00.000-08:00

Erik has swum double workouts in the past, but only at swim camp. This week he did it in the school day with the Frick team. He swam practices before school and after school on both Wednesday and Thursday.

On Friday, he'll swim at Carlynton and then there is a one day meet on Saturday.

Peace

2006-10-23T08:45:00.000-07:00

Would you vote for this guy?

2006-10-16T18:02:00.000-07:00

Erik's campaign photo.

2006-10-13T06:57:00.000-07:00

We're going here tomorrow. This a mechanical climbing wall that is part of the arcade at Laser Storm.

2006-09-07T18:10:00.000-07:00

E after the 2.5 mile swim.

2006-09-07T18:09:00.000-07:00

After the 2.5 mile swim.

2006-09-07T07:16:00.000-07:00

T and E on the 2nd night of the canoe trip.