Akron Total Eclipse 2025
The total solar eclipse of April 8, 2025, will be a significant celestial event visible across parts of North America, including the city of Akron, Ohio. This event promises to be a spectacular sight, with the moon completely blocking the sun’s light for a brief period, creating a dramatic darkening of the sky. Understanding the specifics of the eclipse’s path and timing in Akron is crucial for optimal viewing.
Akron Total Eclipse 2025: Event Overview
The path of totality for the 2025 eclipse will pass directly over Akron, Ohio, making it a prime location for observing the total phase of the eclipse. This means that from Akron, the moon will completely obscure the sun’s disk, revealing the sun’s corona, a breathtaking sight visible only during a total solar eclipse. The city’s location within the path of totality ensures a longer duration of totality compared to locations at the edges of the path.
Eclipse Timing in Akron
Precise timing for the eclipse phases in Akron will be available closer to the event date from reputable sources like NASA and the US Naval Observatory. However, we can expect the partial eclipse to begin approximately an hour before totality, with the total eclipse lasting for several minutes. Following totality, the partial eclipse will continue for approximately another hour before the sun is fully uncovered. The exact times for each phase (partial eclipse beginning, totality beginning, maximum eclipse, totality ending, partial eclipse ending) will need to be confirmed closer to the event date from official sources, accounting for any minor variations in predictions. These predictions rely on complex astronomical calculations and are subject to slight adjustments as the date approaches. For example, the 2017 total solar eclipse saw minor discrepancies between predicted and actual timings in some locations due to the complexities of celestial mechanics.
Recommended Viewing Locations in Akron
Choosing a viewing location with an unobstructed view of the southern horizon is essential for optimal eclipse viewing in Akron. Several locations offer such prospects:
- University of Akron campus: The open spaces on campus offer numerous potential viewing spots with minimal obstructions.
- Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens: This expansive estate provides ample space and potentially clear views.
- Summit County Metro Parks: Several parks within the county offer open areas suitable for eclipse viewing; however, checking specific park locations for optimal viewing angles is recommended.
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park (nearby): While not strictly in Akron, this park is within reasonable driving distance and offers stunning natural landscapes for viewing the eclipse.
Remember to check for any planned events or restrictions at these locations closer to the eclipse date.
Duration of Totality Comparison
The following table compares the approximate duration of totality in Akron with other major cities in the path of totality. Note that these durations are estimates and may vary slightly based on the final calculations and the specific location within each city. The discrepancies highlight the curvature of the Earth and the path of the moon’s shadow. For example, cities further along the path of totality, even if geographically close, may experience a shorter or longer period of totality due to the shadow’s movement.
City | State | Approximate Duration of Totality | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Akron | Ohio | ~4 minutes | Estimates based on preliminary eclipse path calculations. |
Indianapolis | Indiana | ~3 minutes | Slightly shorter duration due to location relative to the center of the path. |
Cleveland | Ohio | ~3 minutes 30 seconds | Slightly shorter duration than Akron due to location relative to the center of the path. |
Toledo | Ohio | ~3 minutes 15 seconds | Shorter duration due to location near the edge of the path of totality. |
Safety Precautions for Viewing the Eclipse in Akron
Witnessing a total solar eclipse is a truly awe-inspiring event, but it’s crucial to prioritize eye safety. Looking directly at the sun, even during a partial eclipse, can cause serious and permanent eye damage, including solar retinopathy, which can lead to vision loss. Proper precautions are essential to ensure a safe and memorable experience.
The Dangers of Improper Eclipse Viewing
Looking directly at the sun during a partial or annular eclipse is extremely dangerous. The sun’s intense radiation can damage the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This damage can occur quickly and without pain, meaning you might not realize you’re harming your eyes until it’s too late. Even brief glances can cause lasting vision problems, including blurry vision, blind spots, and even complete vision loss in the affected area. Unlike other types of burns, retinal damage from solar radiation often doesn’t heal. Therefore, using proper eye protection is paramount.
ISO-Certified Eclipse Glasses
The only safe way to directly view the sun during an eclipse is with ISO 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses. These glasses are specifically designed to filter out harmful ultraviolet and infrared radiation, as well as most of the visible light. They should meet this specific ISO standard, which ensures they’ve been rigorously tested to meet safety requirements. Avoid using homemade filters, sunglasses, or other types of eye protection that aren’t specifically certified for eclipse viewing. Look for the ISO 12312-2 certification label on the glasses themselves. Reputable online retailers and science museums are reliable sources for purchasing these glasses. Check the manufacturer’s information and expiry date before using them; some filters degrade over time.
Safe Indirect Viewing Methods
For those who prefer not to look directly at the sun, several safe indirect viewing methods exist. A pinhole projector is a simple and effective method. Create a small hole in a piece of cardboard and project the sun’s image onto another piece of cardboard held a few feet away. The projected image will show the sun’s shape and the progression of the eclipse. Alternatively, you can use a colander or a sieve to project multiple images of the eclipse onto a surface. Remember to never look directly through the pinhole or at the sun during this process. Another method involves projecting the image through binoculars onto a white surface. Ensure that the binoculars are pointed away from any observers’ eyes.
Eclipse Viewing Safety Checklist
Before heading out to view the eclipse in Akron, review this checklist:
- Obtain ISO 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses from a reputable source. Check the certification label and expiry date.
- Inspect your glasses carefully for any damage before use. Discard damaged glasses immediately.
- Supervise children carefully to ensure they are using their glasses correctly and not removing them during the eclipse.
- If using indirect viewing methods, ensure no one looks directly at the sun at any point during the process.
- Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against tripping or falling, especially if viewing the eclipse in a crowded area.
- Stay hydrated, especially if you’re spending extended time outdoors.
- Remember that even during the totality phase of a total eclipse (when the sun is completely blocked by the moon), it is still not safe to look directly at the sun without proper eye protection. The corona (the sun’s outer atmosphere) is still visible and emits harmful radiation.
Akron’s Eclipse-Related Events and Activities
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Akron is preparing for the 2025 total solar eclipse with a range of community events, educational initiatives, and business opportunities designed to make this celestial event a memorable experience for residents and visitors alike. The city anticipates a significant influx of tourists, creating a unique economic boost for local businesses.
Akron’s preparations are multifaceted, encompassing community celebrations, educational programs, and strategic economic planning to maximize the benefits of the eclipse. The city is collaborating with various organizations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Community Events and Celebrations
The city of Akron is expected to host several public events leading up to and during the eclipse. These will likely include viewing parties at designated locations offering optimal viewing conditions, possibly featuring live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Specific details regarding locations, times, and programming will be announced closer to the eclipse date by the city’s official channels and local media outlets. One potential location could be Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, given its expansive grounds and historical significance. Another option could be a large park such as Cuyahoga Valley National Park, which already hosts many community events.
Educational Programs and Exhibits
Local museums and institutions are planning educational programs and exhibits to engage the community and visitors with the science behind the eclipse. The University of Akron, for instance, may organize lectures, workshops, and possibly even an open house at its science departments. The Akron Art Museum might host an exhibition exploring the artistic interpretations of eclipses throughout history. The Summit County Historical Society could potentially offer programs connecting the historical context of past eclipses with Akron’s history. These educational initiatives aim to provide a deeper understanding of the astronomical event and its significance.
Economic Impact of the Eclipse
The 2025 total solar eclipse is projected to have a substantial economic impact on Akron. The influx of tourists is expected to boost revenue for hotels, restaurants, and other local businesses. Similar eclipses in the past have demonstrated a significant increase in tourism revenue for affected areas. For example, the 2017 total solar eclipse across the United States led to a significant economic boost in cities along the path of totality, with many hotels reporting near-full occupancy and restaurants experiencing record sales. Akron’s proactive planning aims to leverage this potential economic windfall by attracting visitors and maximizing the benefits for local businesses.
Schedule of Eclipse-Related Activities
A detailed schedule of events will be published closer to the eclipse date. However, a tentative timeline might include:
- Months prior to the eclipse: Public awareness campaigns, announcements of major events, educational programs in schools and community centers begin.
- Weeks prior to the eclipse: Registration opens for eclipse viewing parties and organized events. Local businesses begin marketing eclipse-themed promotions and packages.
- Days prior to the eclipse: Safety information campaigns are intensified. Detailed schedules of events are released. Preparation for large-scale events commences.
- Eclipse Day: Community events take place. Educational opportunities are available throughout the day.
Akron’s History and the Eclipse: Akron Total Eclipse 2025
Akron, Ohio, boasts a rich history intertwined with the natural spectacle of solar eclipses, though specific detailed historical accounts of past eclipse observations within the city are surprisingly scarce in readily available historical records. While we lack detailed eyewitness accounts from earlier centuries, we can infer the significance of such events based on broader societal reactions to eclipses throughout history.
Akron’s location within the path of totality for the 2025 eclipse offers a unique opportunity to compare and contrast the event with other eclipses witnessed in the region. While precise records detailing past eclipses viewed from Akron are limited, the overall experience of a total solar eclipse – the darkening of the sky, the dramatic drop in temperature, the appearance of the corona – would have been consistent across centuries. The technological advancements between past events and 2025, however, significantly alter how the eclipse is observed and documented.
Comparison of the 2025 Eclipse with Past Eclipses in Akron
The 2025 total solar eclipse offers a vastly different observational experience compared to past eclipses witnessed in Akron, primarily due to advancements in technology and scientific understanding. Past observers likely relied on their naked eyes or rudimentary tools, resulting in a more awe-struck, less scientifically informed experience. In contrast, the 2025 eclipse will be documented extensively using modern equipment, allowing for precise measurements and detailed imagery. Furthermore, the widespread availability of information about the eclipse will ensure greater public preparedness and safety compared to past instances where understanding of the event and its potential impact might have been less widespread. For example, the 1979 partial solar eclipse, visible in Akron, was likely observed with less preparation and safety awareness than will be the case for the 2025 event.
Cultural Significance of Eclipses in Akron Communities
While detailed records of specific cultural responses to past eclipses in Akron’s diverse communities are limited, we can extrapolate from broader historical trends. Many cultures throughout history have associated eclipses with both fear and awe. Some communities might have interpreted eclipses as omens or supernatural events, potentially leading to rituals or ceremonies aimed at appeasing deities or warding off misfortune. Others might have viewed them as simply awe-inspiring natural phenomena, leading to observation and documentation. The 2025 eclipse presents an opportunity to observe and document the diverse responses of Akron’s various cultural groups, adding to our understanding of how such events are perceived in modern society.
Timeline of Key Historical Moments Related to Eclipses in Akron
While precise records are lacking, a generalized timeline can be constructed:
Akron Total Eclipse 2025 – Prior to 1800s: Occasional partial solar eclipses visible in Akron, with interpretations varying across different cultural groups. Limited or no documented observation.
Akron, Ohio, is poised to experience a truly remarkable celestial event during the 2025 total solar eclipse. To best prepare for this awe-inspiring spectacle, it’s helpful to know exactly how long totality will last in your location. You can find out precisely how long the total eclipse will last by checking this resource: How Long Will The Total Eclipse Last In April 2025.
This information will allow you to plan your Akron Total Eclipse 2025 viewing experience accordingly.
1800s-1900s: Partial solar eclipses observable, likely viewed with growing scientific interest but still lacking widespread detailed documentation specific to Akron. The development of photography might have led to some photographic records, though their location and accessibility are uncertain.
Akron, Ohio, is poised to experience a significant celestial event: the 2025 total solar eclipse. Planning your viewing location is key, and to help you decide, check out this helpful resource on ideal viewing spots: Where Can You See Total Solar Eclipse 2025. Understanding the path of totality will ensure you have the best possible view of the Akron Total Eclipse 2025.
1979: Partial solar eclipse visible in Akron. Likely observed by many residents, but without the level of organized community events and safety awareness that the 2025 event will see.
Akron, Ohio, is anticipating a significant celestial event: the 2025 total solar eclipse. To understand Akron’s place within this breathtaking phenomenon, it’s helpful to consult a detailed map showing the totality path; you can find a comprehensive visualization of the eclipse’s path on this website: Total Solar Eclipse Path 2025. This will allow you to see exactly how Akron fits into the broader sweep of the 2025 total solar eclipse across North America.
2025: Total solar eclipse visible in Akron. Extensive preparation, community events, and widespread scientific observation and documentation are expected.
Akron, Ohio, anticipates a significant celestial event with the 2025 total solar eclipse. Planning for this is already underway, with many considering viewing locations and accommodations. For those further east, a similar experience awaits in Massachusetts; you can find detailed information on the Total Eclipse 2025 Massachusetts event. Returning to Akron, the local excitement is palpable as residents and visitors prepare for this rare astronomical phenomenon.
Preparing for the Akron Eclipse
Planning your trip to Akron for the 2025 total solar eclipse requires careful consideration of various logistical factors to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. This section provides guidance on accommodation, transportation, crowd management, and potential service disruptions, along with a packing list to help you prepare for this extraordinary event.
Accommodation Options in Akron
Securing lodging well in advance is crucial, given the anticipated influx of visitors. Akron offers a range of accommodation options, from hotels and motels to vacation rentals and camping sites. Booking through reputable online platforms or contacting hotels directly is recommended. Consider locations outside the immediate city center for potentially more affordable options, but factor in additional travel time to eclipse viewing locations. For example, exploring lodging in nearby smaller towns like Cuyahoga Falls or Stow could offer more availability and potentially lower prices. Remember to check cancellation policies and read reviews before making a reservation.
Transportation Tips for Eclipse Visitors
Traffic congestion is expected to be significant during the eclipse. Planning your transportation well in advance is vital. Driving to Akron might be challenging, especially on the day of the eclipse. Consider arriving several days early to avoid peak traffic. Public transportation options within Akron should be explored, and ride-sharing services might be a viable alternative, although surge pricing is highly likely. If driving, pre-planning your route and parking location is critical; many parking areas near prime viewing spots will likely fill up quickly. Consider carpooling with others to reduce the number of vehicles on the road.
Managing Crowds and Traffic Congestion
Akron’s infrastructure will likely experience significant strain during the eclipse. Authorities will likely implement traffic management plans, but delays are inevitable. Allow ample time for travel to and from viewing locations. Staying informed about real-time traffic updates through apps or local news channels will be crucial. Being patient and flexible is key to navigating the crowds. Consider exploring less crowded viewing locations outside of the immediate city center to minimize your exposure to traffic congestion.
Power Outages and Service Disruptions, Akron Total Eclipse 2025
The high demand for electricity and potential strain on the power grid could lead to temporary power outages. Having a backup power source, such as portable power banks for phones and other electronics, is recommended. Consider having cash on hand, as electronic payment systems might be temporarily unavailable due to network issues. Staying informed about potential service disruptions through official channels and local news is crucial. Having a plan for communication in case of service outages is essential; designate a meeting point with your group in case of separation.
Eclipse Packing List
A well-prepared packing list is essential for a comfortable viewing experience. This list emphasizes essentials for safe and enjoyable eclipse viewing:
- Eclipse glasses (ISO 12312-2 compliant)
- Sunscreen (high SPF)
- Hat and sunglasses
- Comfortable clothing and shoes (suitable for potential outdoor activities)
- Water and snacks
- Portable charger for electronic devices
- Cash
- First-aid kit
- Camera (optional)
- Map of Akron and surrounding areas
Photography and Astrophotography during the Akron Eclipse
Capturing the totality of the 2025 solar eclipse over Akron will be a memorable experience, and photography offers a powerful way to preserve that memory. Whether you’re a seasoned astrophotographer or a smartphone enthusiast, planning ahead and understanding the unique challenges of eclipse photography will significantly improve your chances of obtaining stunning images. This section details techniques and equipment to help you achieve exceptional results.
The total solar eclipse presents a rare opportunity to photograph a celestial event of immense beauty. The interplay of light and shadow, the corona’s ethereal glow, and the dramatic change in the surrounding landscape all provide compelling photographic subjects. However, capturing these moments requires careful planning and the right equipment. This section will guide you through the process, from choosing the right gear to composing your shots.
Akron, Ohio, promises a spectacular view of the 2025 total solar eclipse. Planning your viewing experience is key, and to help with that, consider checking out the comprehensive live stream coverage offered by 2025 Total Solar Eclipse Live for a potentially clearer view. This resource will allow you to supplement your Akron viewing, offering alternative perspectives and enhancing your overall experience of this celestial event.
Essential Equipment for Eclipse Photography
Professional astrophotography requires specialized equipment to capture the detail and dynamic range of a total solar eclipse. A high-quality DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual controls is essential. A telephoto lens with a focal length of at least 300mm is recommended to capture the sun’s details; longer focal lengths (600mm or more) will provide even greater magnification. A sturdy tripod is crucial for maintaining sharp images, especially during long exposures. A solar filter is absolutely necessary to protect your camera’s sensor and lens from the sun’s harmful rays during all phases except totality. For astrophotography during totality, a wide-angle lens can capture the corona and the surrounding landscape, offering a wider perspective of the event. Remote shutter release cables or timers will help prevent camera shake during exposures.
Smartphone Eclipse Photography: A Step-by-Step Guide
Even without specialized equipment, you can capture memorable images of the eclipse using your smartphone. Remember, safety is paramount; never look directly at the sun without proper eye protection. For partial phases, use a solar filter designed for smartphones, attaching it securely to your phone’s lens.
- Prepare your phone: Ensure your phone’s camera app allows for manual settings (adjusting exposure and focus). Charge your phone fully before the eclipse.
- Find a stable position: Use a tripod or find a stable surface to minimize camera shake. Consider leaning against a wall or using a selfie stick.
- Adjust camera settings: Experiment with different settings before the eclipse to find what works best. A high ISO and fast shutter speed might be necessary for capturing the sun’s brightness during partial phases.
- Capture the partial phases: Carefully point your phone towards the sun (with the solar filter attached). Take photos at different stages of the partial eclipse, capturing the sun’s changing shape.
- Remove the filter during totality: Once totality begins, immediately remove the solar filter to capture the corona and the surrounding landscape. You have a short window to take pictures; be ready.
- Capture the totality: Experiment with different exposures and compositions during totality. A slightly longer exposure will show more detail in the corona.
- Capture the diamond ring effect: At the beginning and end of totality, you may be able to capture the “diamond ring” effect, a brief moment where a bright point of sunlight is visible.
Composing Compelling Eclipse Images: Akron Skyline
Composing compelling images requires careful consideration of the background and foreground elements. For the Akron eclipse, incorporating the Akron skyline into your shots will add a unique local context to your images. Consider positioning the eclipsed sun against a prominent landmark, such as the Goodyear blimp (if visible) or a recognizable building. Silhouetting buildings against the bright corona can create a dramatic effect. Vary your composition, experimenting with different angles and perspectives. A wide-angle shot capturing the entire scene, including the skyline and the eclipsed sun, will provide a broader context, while a close-up shot will highlight the detail of the eclipse itself. Remember the rule of thirds; placing the sun off-center can create a more visually appealing image.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Akron Total Eclipse 2025
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This section addresses common inquiries regarding the total solar eclipse visible from Akron, Ohio, on April 8, 2025. Understanding these details will help you plan for a safe and memorable experience.
Total Eclipse Visibility in Akron
The total eclipse phase in Akron will begin around 2:20 PM EDT and reach totality at approximately 3:00 PM EDT, lasting for approximately 3 minutes and 50 seconds. The partial phases will extend the overall event for a longer duration before and after totality. Precise timings may vary slightly depending on the specific location within Akron. It’s advisable to consult updated eclipse timing resources closer to the date for the most accurate predictions.
Optimal Viewing Locations in Akron
Several locations within Akron offer excellent vantage points for viewing the eclipse. Open spaces with minimal obstructions are ideal. Consider these options:
- Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens: This expansive estate offers wide-open lawns and potentially organized viewing events, providing a picturesque setting for witnessing the eclipse. The large open areas minimize obstructions for viewing the eclipse.
- Summit County Fairgrounds: The fairgrounds provide ample space for parking and viewing, possibly accommodating a large number of eclipse watchers. Its open layout ensures minimal interference with eclipse viewing.
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park (nearby): While technically outside Akron city limits, this park offers stunning natural scenery and numerous locations with clear views of the sky. The park’s proximity to Akron makes it a convenient option for many residents.
Remember to check for any potential events or restrictions at these locations before heading out.
Necessary Eye Protection
Protecting your eyes during a solar eclipse is crucial. Looking directly at the sun, even during a partial eclipse, can cause serious and permanent eye damage. Only certified ISO 12312-2 rated eclipse glasses should be used. Regular sunglasses are insufficient and offer no protection. These special glasses are designed to block out the harmful ultraviolet and infrared radiation emitted by the sun. Improper eye protection can lead to solar retinopathy, a condition that can cause blurred vision, loss of central vision, and even blindness. Only use glasses from reputable sources.
Traffic and Crowd Management
Significant traffic congestion and large crowds are expected in Akron during the eclipse. Plan your travel well in advance, allowing extra time to reach your chosen viewing location. Consider carpooling or using public transportation if possible. Parking spaces may be limited, so arriving early is highly recommended. Be prepared for potential delays and consider having alternative plans in case of unexpected traffic jams. Familiarize yourself with local traffic advisories and parking information closer to the event date.
Illustrative Descriptions of the Eclipse Experience in Akron
Witnessing a total solar eclipse is a profoundly transformative experience, and Akron’s location in the path of totality for the 2025 event promises a spectacle unlike any other. The changes in light, sound, and the overall atmosphere will create an unforgettable memory for all who are fortunate enough to observe it.
The Visual Experience of Totality
As the moon slowly obscures the sun, a noticeable dimming will begin. Shadows will sharpen, taking on an unusual, almost eerie quality. Birds may fall silent, mistaking the approaching darkness for nightfall. Then, as totality approaches, the remaining sliver of sun will appear as a brilliant crescent, casting crescent-shaped shadows through the leaves. The final moments before totality will be marked by a dramatic drop in temperature, a noticeable shift in the wind, and a 360-degree sunset effect around the horizon. Then, totality arrives. The sun is completely blocked, revealing the sun’s corona – a breathtaking halo of pearly white light extending millions of miles into space. The sky will darken significantly, though not to the level of a moonless night. Instead, it will take on a deep twilight hue, with the brighter stars and planets becoming visible.
The Soundscape of the Eclipse
The shift in the soundscape during a total solar eclipse is equally remarkable. The gradual decrease in ambient light will be accompanied by a corresponding decrease in the usual daytime sounds. The chirping of crickets and birdsong will cease, replaced by an unnerving quiet, a hush that hangs heavy in the air. The sudden, profound silence, broken only by the occasional rustle of leaves or the murmur of the crowd, adds to the mystical quality of the event. As totality ends, the return of sunlight is heralded by the gradual reappearance of everyday sounds, creating a stark contrast with the preceding silence.
The Emotional Impact of Witnessing a Total Solar Eclipse
The emotional impact of a total solar eclipse is difficult to describe fully. It’s a powerful, awe-inspiring event that evokes a wide range of feelings, from wonder and reverence to a sense of humbling insignificance in the face of the vastness of the cosmos. Many observers describe a feeling of profound peace and tranquility, a moment of connection with something larger than themselves. The sheer beauty of the corona, the dramatic shift in the environment, and the shared experience with others all contribute to a sense of wonder and shared humanity. It’s a moment that often stays with people long after the eclipse has passed.
A Family’s Eclipse Experience in Akron
The Miller family, bundled in warm coats, settled onto blankets spread on the manicured lawn of Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens in Akron. Ten-year-old Lily clutched her special eclipse glasses, her eyes wide with anticipation. As the partial eclipse began, a collective gasp rippled through the crowd gathered on the lawn. The air grew noticeably cooler. Then, as totality approached, an eerie silence descended. Lily, her eyes shielded, felt a shiver run down her spine. When the sun was completely hidden, the corona blazed forth, a breathtaking spectacle that stole her breath. Her father, a lifelong astronomy enthusiast, felt tears welling in his eyes. Her mother, usually reserved, whispered, “This is incredible.” Even the family dog, Buster, seemed to sense the unusual shift in the atmosphere, whimpering softly. The few minutes of totality felt like a lifetime, a shared moment of wonder that bound the family together in a unique and unforgettable way. As the sun began to reappear, Lily, her face flushed with excitement, declared, “That was the best day ever!”