cover letters for 16 year olds

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Example Cover Letter for Teenager

Land a job that can kick-start your successful career with this proficiently-written cover letter sample for teens. You can use this example at no cost or easily modify it in our intuitive cover letter builder.

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Example Cover Letter for Teenager (Full Text Version)

Andrew Berlington

To whom it may concern,

Thank you for the opportunity to submit my application for the Sales Associate job within MERG Corporation, LLC which has been posted and advertised on LinkedIn.com. I am certain that I would be a great contribution to your team and what is more, I believe that my qualifications would help me to meet and exceed all your expectations and goals.

As stated in my attached CV, I worked as a Part-time Sales Assistant at PCV Computers & Electronics, LLC for more than 2 years. There, I was mainly responsible for communicating with browsing customers, providing professional recommendations and advice to them, and collecting and processing payments. Additionally, I maintained and organized a clean work area, assisted in the stock and inventory management, trained new personnel, and executed multiple clerical tasks as required. Throughout the years, I have demonstrated numerous times that I am a dedicated and reliable person with the important ability to function well in fast-paced and deadline-driven team environments.

Next, I am a third-year high school student at Marshfield High School. Besides achieving extraordinary academic results (4.0 GPA) and being engaged in multiple extracurricular activities, I also serve as a Social Media Account Manager. This tremendous experience has allowed me to become a pro-active individual and helped me to acquire excellent time management skills. Finally, I am adept at using all software programs necessary for the role, such as Epos Now, Mastersoft, and MS Office. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions on my career history. I can be reached at 555-555-5555 or via email at [email protected]. Thank you for your time and consideration and I look forward to hearing back from you soon.

Kind regards,

High School Student

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 23.2 percent of high school students participated in the labor force in October 2021. Besides gaining work experience for your further career growth, having a job can certainly teach you valuable skills, such as teamwork, leadership, or cooperation. That said, it is only natural that many high school students are eager job seekers. And there is no better way to land a job than to advertise yourself with a professionally written cover letter.

Milan Šaržík, CPRW

Milan’s work-life has been centered around job search for the past three years. He is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) as well as an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches (PARWCC™). Milan holds a record for creating the most career document samples for our help center – until today, he has written more than 500 resumes and cover letters for positions across various industries. On top of that, Milan has completed studies at multiple well-known institutions, including Harvard University, University of Glasgow, and Frankfurt School of Finance and Management.

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Social Sciences Student Humanities Student Professions And Applied Sciences Student Formal Sciences Student High School Student Natural Sciences Student University Student Student Internship

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Cover Letter Examples for Students

Now that you have completed your resume, you are ready to apply for jobs. You have noticed from the advertisements you have been looking at that you are going to have to include a cover letter for some of the jobs you are applying for. While you are relieved that your resume is done, you are now not sure where to start when writing a cover letter.

Fortunately, there is help available.  This blog post will cover the following:

• How to write a cover letter when you are a student
• Important things to look for when proofreading your cover letter
• Where to find a cover letter examples for students

How to Write a Cover Letter When You are a Student

While writing a cover letter may sound scary at first, you will soon see that it is not that difficult. This blog post will walk you through the process and provide you with examples of cover letters that will help you create one of your own.

To start, choose a job that you are interested in applying for. Review the ad or job posting closely so that you can get a good idea of what the employer is looking for.  For some jobs, this will be easy to figure out as the ad or job posting will offer plenty of detail. It will be a bit more challenging when applying for a job where the ad or posting is very general and you might have to do some additional research.

Aside from having a good understanding of the job you are applying for, you will also want to get some background information on the employer you are looking to be hired by. You will want to do your best to learn what is important to the employer in those that they hire, so that you can consider how you would fit in.

Once you have an idea of the need the employer is looking to fill, think about the experience you have, whether it is formal or informal. Consider how your experience meets the employer’s need. The cover letter provides you the chance to sell yourself to the employer by showing that what you can offer meets the need that they have.

While you may not have had a paid job before it does not mean that you don’t have the skills and experience that would make you a good employee for the job. For example, you may have gained customer service experience from volunteering at the food bank and distributing food to those in need.

Now that you have a good idea of what the employer has a need for along with how you can meet that need, you have the information necessary to write an effective cover letter.

Keep proper format in mind when writing your cover letter. For more information on format, click here .

You should start your cover letter with a header that includes the contact information for yourself and the employer. Then, you can follow with “Dear Hiring Manager (if you don’t know the name of the contact person. If you do know the name of the person to direct the cover letter to, you will want to use their name).

Next, introduce yourself, state what job you are applying for and how you heard about it. For example:

Per you advertisement on Craigslist for a Customer Service Specialist, I am attaching my resume for your review. I take pride in the customer service skills I have developed from volunteer opportunities over the last few years and welcome the opportunity to work directly with people.

Did you hear about the job from someone that the employer may know? You will want to mention that in your cover letter. A personal referral will often get your resume looked at.

The next paragraph or two will be where you will make the case that you can meet the needs of the employer. Think of the skills and experience that you have and how they relate to the job you are applying for.  This is where you will let the employer know why you are the right fit for the job and would make a great employee.

In the cover letter you can offer information that may not be on your resume.  Did you provide customer service while participating in the annual car wash that is held as a fundraiser for your basketball team? You can include that in your cover letter.  For example:

As a member of our school’s basketball team, I have participated in our annual car wash fundraiser over the last three years. My experience includes interacting with car wash customers, collecting their donations, ensuring their satisfaction and resolving any issues that arise. The car wash is typically very busy and requires that I work well in a fast-paced environment, as well as handle customer complaints efficiently and with confidence.

I also have been volunteering with the ABC Food Bank, assisting with distributing food boxes to recipients. While I spend some time making the food boxes, the majority of this experience involves working with recipients and ensuring that they have a positive experience with the food bank.

Your final paragraph is your closing paragraph, where you will briefly restate what you have written and why you should be considered for the open position. You will then sign the cover letter. For example:

My experiences working with the basketball team fundraiser and the ABC Food Bank have helped me to develop my customer service and problem solving skills. Both roles involve working in a fast paced environment, similar to what you describe in your advertisement. I welcome the opportunity to meet with you in person to further discuss my qualifications.

Please contact me with any questions.

Jennifer Job

For additional information regarding what to include in your cover letter, click here .

Important Things to Look for When Proofreading your Cover Letter

It is important that you proofread your cover letter once it is written. The cover letter is the first impression a potential employer will have of you and you want to be sure that the first impression is a good one.

When proofreading your cover letter, here are some things to look out for:

• Spelling or grammar errors
• Confirm that you have followed the proper format
• Ensure that your verb tenses are correct. If you are still doing something at the time you are writing the cover letter, use the present tense. If you are no longer doing the activity, use past tense.
• Confirm that you demonstrate in your cover letter that you understand what the employer is looking for as well as how you and your experience can meet their need.
• Make sure that the cover letter is job-specific.
• Employers are often put off by generic cover letters that are used for every application you submit.

For more on proofreading your cover letter, click here .

Where to Find Cover Letter Examples for Students

Most things are easier to do when you have examples to review to provide guidance. As you work on creating your cover letter, it is okay to refer to cover letter that you find online or from a friend or relative.

Click here for an example of a student cover letter. For another example, click here .

A template may be helpful as well and we have included one below:

Your Address

Your Phone Number

Your email address

Name of Contact Person

Title of Contact Person (if you have)

Business Name

Business Address

Dear Mr. A or Ms. A (if you don’t know the name of the person hiring you can say “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To whom it May Concern,”

Paragraph 1: state the job you are applying for and where you heard about it. Note in this paragraph if anyone in particular referred you for the job. Provide a quick overview of your experience. We can use some of what we wrote above:

Paragraph 2-3:

As a member of our school’s business club, I have volunteered to work at our school store for the last two years. My experience includes serving teachers and students, ensuring their satisfaction and resolving any issues that arise. As the store has limited hours, the environment is fast-paced and I have learned to handle customer complaints efficiently and with confidence.

I also have been volunteering with the Human Society, assisting with pet adoptions. While I spend some time with the animals, the majority of this experience involves working with customers and ensuring that they have a positive experience with the agency.

Closing Paragraph:

My experience working with the school store and the Humane Society have helped me to develop my customer service and problem solving skills. Both roles involved working in a fast paced environment, similar to what you describe in your advertisement. I welcome the opportunity to meet with you in person to further discuss my qualifications.

I look forward to speaking with you. Please contact me with any questions.

You will then sign your cover letter with your full name.

For more examples of cover letters for students with no work experience, click here and here .

For more information on jobs for teenagers, click here .

Make sure that you submit both your cover letter and resume on best day/time to apply for the job.   This will increase your chances of getting the job and standing out from other applicants.  The cover letter is an opportunity to set yourself apart from other applicants. Even without formal work experience, you can put together a cover letter that will help you to stand out.

So, what do you think about cover letter examples for students? Do you agree with what was said above?  Comment below to let us know!

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• How to write a CV for a...

How to write a CV for a 16-year-old (with examples)

6 min read · Updated on October 25, 2022

There's a first time for everything, so make sure your first CV is a real corker!

The potential world of work experience - a scary prospect or something to relish? It needn't be a trial to get your first job CV shipshape, ready for a Saturday job or an exciting apprenticeship opportunity. We have all you need to know about how to write a CV for a 16 year old right here, right now. And with four CV examples for 16 year olds at the end of this article, you'll be well on your way to mastering the skill of putting together a comprehensive and informative teenager CV that highlights your skills and gets you noticed.

Can a 16-year-old even have a CV?

Of course. You've got your own experiences and skills to proclaim… and your pocket money just isn't enough any more for all the things you want to explore. Plus, securing a job at this stage in your life will teach you so many more new skills to add to your CV at a later date.

This is probably the first template for a CV that you've ever had to compile. But first, you want to make sure it's worth doing. A CV, or Curriculum Vitae to give its full name (which translates from the Latin as “course of life”), is a document that details a person's career and qualifications. Still  relevant today , a CV is generally required when applying for jobs.

If you live in England, it's required by law that you remain in some sort of  education or training until the age of 18. In Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, you can enter the world of work from leaving school at 16, depending on when your birthday falls.

Grab their attention

What is it about TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat that appeals? They're engaging, informative, eye-catching, and fun to read. So let your new 16 year old CV be the same! Whoever's reading your CV is looking to be impressed and heartened by your efforts at creating an amazing teenager CV. So don't disappoint!

Choose a  fitting CV template for a 16 year old that is clear and clean with no tables or boxes, taking guidance from the CV examples for 16 year olds below. A one page CV is enough at this stage.

Then crack on with the personal profile, which sits under your contact details at the top of the page. This is often called the “Professional Profile”, but as you're likely to have little or no experience, it's best to title it as “Personal Profile”. Check out the profiles in the CV examples for 16 year olds that are included in this piece for inspiration, using them as a guide to hone your own profile with your key assets and attributes.

Next comes your education and qualifications. Not surprisingly, this is probably going to be your biggest selling point and thus, the most significant feature of your teenager CV. Keep it in list form, detailing grades of recent qualifications, such as GCSEs, the school, and year completed - or state “ongoing” if you're still in the process of taking them.

Shout out about your experience

If you do have some experience, whether that's two weeks work experience in an office or voluntary work at a local charity shop, then shout about it. Info on this should be placed under the education section. List the name of the company you worked for, your job title - even if it was Intern - and the dates. Then offer up bulleted points of your responsibilities , using active verbs and including any achievements, to set you up for  finding a part-time job .

How do I write a CV for a teenager with no experience?

Drafting a CV for a teenager with no experience can be overwhelming. Where do you start? What on earth can you put on a document designed to show off career and work experience when you have none? Don't worry, there are ways and means of creating a great CV for a teenager with no experience by approaching it from a different angle.

You'll have gained lots of skills from school and extracurricular activities without even knowing! You need to identify these, focus on them, and translate them to the page. What are you like in a team? Have you supervised others? Have you organised anything or solved problems? Perhaps you're a people person or have a knack for coming up with great ideas. Whatever key skills you focus on, you need to elaborate on the relevant ones and explain how these would be beneficial to the job in hand.

Think of the interests and hobbies you've done for a while. Have you undertaken something like a Duke of Edinburgh award or similar? These types of activities often involve organisation, team work, effective communication, and problem solving. Were you Prefect or Sports Captain at school? These show leadership capabilities as well as flexibility, time management, and collaboration. What about anything you've achieved under your own initiative that relates to the job you're gunning for? This can include research and reading, visits, and online courses, while proving you're ace at self management and also IT literate.

Check out the CV examples for 16 year olds below, especially the specifically-written CV for teenagers with no experience..

Applying for an apprenticeship?

How are your experiences, key skills, or knowledge going to benefit an apprenticeship? Tell them about things you've done outside your studies to further develop your knowledge. Try to think about things that not everyone else is doing, so that you stand out from the crowd.

CV examples for 16 year olds

Listed below are four CV examples for 16 year olds. These cover a range of options and styles. Note how two of the CV examples for 16 year olds are written in the first person, a more informal approach. The other two good CV examples for a first job are crafted in the more formal third person, a style adopted for most CVs. Depending on your character and personality, pick the teenage CV template that suits you the best.

Recommended reading:

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Letter Templates & Example

Cover Letter Examples for 16 Year Olds – How to Stand Out and Get Hired

Hey there, fellow 16-year-olds! Are you ready to take the next step in your job search? Landing your first job can be intimidating, but having a great cover letter can boost your chances of being hired. Lucky for you, there are plenty of cover letter examples for 16-year-olds out there that you can use as a starting point and edit to fit your needs.

Cover letters are an important part of the job application process, as they allow you to showcase your personality and skills to potential employers. They also give you the chance to explain why you’re the best candidate for the job, even if you don’t have a ton of experience.

Don’t worry if you’ve never written a cover letter before. With the help of some examples and a bit of editing, you’ll be able to create something that will stand out to hiring managers. So take a look at the cover letter examples for 16-year-olds that are available online, make them your own, and start sending out those job applications!

The Best Structure for Cover Letter Examples for 16 Year Olds

As a 16 year old, writing your first cover letter can be intimidating and overwhelming. However, with the right structure and approach, you can showcase your skills and experiences in a way that stands out to employers. Here are the key elements of a successful cover letter:

Opening paragraph:

The first paragraph of your cover letter should grab the employer’s attention and introduce yourself. Start with a brief introduction about who you are and why you are interested in the job. You can also mention any personal connection you have to the company or industry.

Second and third paragraphs:

The next two paragraphs are the most important part of your cover letter. This is where you highlight your skills and experiences that make you a strong candidate. Start by highlighting your relevant skills and experiences, including any volunteer work or extracurricular activities. Be specific and provide examples of how you have demonstrated these skills in the past. You can also mention any coursework or certifications that are relevant to the job.

In the third paragraph, explain why you are interested in this particular job and how it aligns with your goals. This is your chance to show the employer that you have done your research and that you are a good fit for the company culture and values.

Closing paragraph:

In the final paragraph, thank the employer for considering your application and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity. Make sure to include your contact information so that the employer can get in touch with you easily.

Overall, remember to keep your cover letter concise and focused. Use bullet points to highlight your skills and experiences, and avoid repeating information from your resume. By following this structure, you can create a cover letter that showcases your strengths and catches the employer’s attention.

Cover Letter Examples for 16 Year Olds

Applying for a part-time job as a retail assistant.

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the part-time Retail Assistant position at your store. As a 16-year-old with a strong work ethic and customer service skills, I believe I would be an asset to your team.

Through my school’s work placement program, I have gained experience in customer service, sales, and cash handling procedures. I also have strong communication skills and can work well in a team. I am a quick learner who is willing to take on new challenges and responsibilities.

Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further and become a valuable member of your team.

[Your Name]

Applying for an Internship at a Design Studio

I am writing to apply for the internship position at your design studio. As a 16-year-old with a love for graphic design and a passion for creativity, I believe this internship will be the perfect opportunity to further develop my skills and gain valuable experience.

Although I am young, I have been working with Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator for over a year. I have completed several projects for school and personal use, and I am confident in my ability to create designs that are visually appealing and effective in delivering a message. I am also familiar with HTML and CSS, which will come in handy when creating designs for websites and apps.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to learn from professionals in the industry and contribute to your studio’s projects.

Request for a Volunteer Position at a Local Animal Shelter

Dear Shelter Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in volunteering at your animal shelter. As an animal lover with a strong desire to help animals in need, I believe I would be a great asset to your team.

Although I have no professional animal care experience, I have been a pet owner for several years and am knowledgeable about basic animal care. I am willing to learn and follow your shelter’s protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals in your care.

I understand that volunteering at an animal shelter will require hard work and dedication, but I am excited about the opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of animals and the community.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Request for a Letter of Recommendation for a Scholarship

Dear [Teacher’s Name],

I am applying for a scholarship to [University’s Name] and would greatly appreciate your letter of recommendation. As my [subject] teacher, I believe you can speak about my academic strengths and character that make me a suitable candidate for this scholarship.

I know that you are very busy, but I hope you can take a few minutes to write me a letter of recommendation. I have attached my resume and personal statement, which should provide more information about my achievements and goals.

Thank you very much for your time and help. It means a lot to me.

Request for a One-Day Job Shadow Experience at a Law Firm

Dear [Lawyer’s Name],

I am a 16-year-old high school student who is interested in pursuing a career in law. I would like to inquire if your law firm offers any one-day job shadow or internship experiences for high school students like me.

I am particularly interested in learning more about litigation and corporate law. I am a hardworking and motivated student who is always eager to learn. I believe a job shadow experience at your firm would give me a better understanding of the law profession and a chance to ask questions and gain insights from seasoned professionals like you.

Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Request for a Recommendation for a Summer Program

I hope this letter finds you well. I am excited to apply for the summer program at [Organization’s Name], which is focused on [program’s goal]. I believe this program will help me enhance my skills and experiences as a young leader and change-maker.

I am writing to request a recommendation letter from you to support my application. I am grateful for the guidance and mentoring you have provided me both inside and outside the classroom, and I believe your letter will significantly contribute to my application’s strength.

Thank you in advance for your help. I appreciate the time and effort you will dedicate to writing this letter.

Request for a Summer Job at a Volunteer Organization

Dear [Volunteer Coordinator’s Name],

I am thrilled to learn about the work that your organization is doing to support [cause]. As a 16-year-old who cares deeply about making a difference in my community, I would like to submit my application for a summer job opportunity at your organization.

I believe my skills and experiences, specifically in [relevant experience], would assist your team in delivering high-quality services to those in need. I am willing to learn and work hard to contribute to the growth and success of your organization.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to learning more about how I can contribute to your mission.

Cover Letter Tips for 16-Year-Olds

If you’re a 16-year-old looking to enter the workforce, you’ll need to learn how to write an effective cover letter. This document introduces you to potential employers and highlights your relevant skills and experience. Here are some tips to create a compelling cover letter as a 16-year-old:

Keep it short and sweet: A cover letter shouldn’t be too long, ideally, it shouldn’t exceed one page. You want the employer to be able to read it quickly and get an idea of who you are and what you bring to the table.

Highlight your skills: Even if you lack work experience, you still have valuable skills to offer. Think about extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or even school projects that required you to use skills that could relate to the job you’re applying to.

Customize the letter: Avoid using a generic cover letter that you send to all employers. It’s better to tailor each letter to the company you’re applying to, mentioning why you’re interested in the job and how your skills can benefit them.

Show enthusiasm: Let the employer know you’re excited about the opportunity to work for them. Explain what specifically draws you to the job, whether it’s the opportunity to learn new skills or work in a particular field.

Avoid errors: Check your spelling and grammar, and make sure everything is spelled correctly. Use spell-check to avoid mistakes, and have someone else read over your letter to give you an objective viewpoint.

End with a call to action: Make sure to ask for an interview or meeting with the employer. You want to show that you’re serious about the job and want to move forward with the hiring process.

By following these tips, you’ll increase your chances of getting noticed by potential employers. Remember, the cover letter is a chance to showcase your personality and skills, so don’t be afraid to let your unique qualities shine through. Good luck!

Cover Letter Examples for 16 Year Olds FAQs

What should be included in a cover letter for a 16 year old?

A cover letter for a 16 year old should include a brief introduction, your motivation to apply, relevant skills, reasons why you are suitable for the position, and a thank you note. It should also be tailored to the specific job you are applying for.

Should I mention my lack of experience in my cover letter?

Instead of mentioning your lack of experience, focus on the skills and qualities that make you a good fit for the position. Highlight your eagerness to learn and grow, and show that you are motivated and committed.

What are some good examples of skills to include in my cover letter?

Good examples of skills to include in your cover letter are communication skills, teamwork, problem-solving, time management, organization, adaptability, and attention to detail. Don’t forget to provide examples of how you have demonstrated these skills in the past.

How long should my cover letter be?

Your cover letter should be one page long, and no more than four paragraphs. Keep it concise, and make sure to highlight your most important qualities and achievements.

What tone should I use in my cover letter?

Your cover letter should be professional, but also show your personality. Avoid using overly formal language, and try to express your enthusiasm and motivation for the job.

Should I attach my resume to my cover letter?

Yes, always attach your resume to your cover letter. Your resume provides an overview of your education, work experience, skills, and achievements, and helps to support the points you make in your cover letter.

How can I make my cover letter stand out?

You can make your cover letter stand out by tailoring it to the specific job you are applying for, highlighting your most relevant skills and achievements, and expressing your enthusiasm and motivation. Use strong action verbs and avoid clichés, and make sure to proofread your letter carefully for typos and errors.

Thanks for tuning in

We hope that our collection of cover letter examples for 16 year olds have been helpful to you. Remember, the key to writing a winning cover letter is to keep it simple, concise and tailored to the job you’re applying for. If you have any further questions or suggestions, feel free to drop them in the comments section below. Don’t forget to visit us again for more tips and tricks on writing the perfect cover letter. Good luck out there!

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How to watch every memorable moment of the 2024 masters on tv or streaming live.

The most wonderful time of the golf season reaches its conclusion Sunday as the beauty of April surrounds Augusta National Golf Club. The 2024 Masters started as a star-studded affair with a loaded field featuring the best golfers in the world and Scottie Scheffler entering as the favorite. Scheffler held that same position entering Round 4 and has only increased his advantage as the Masters rolls ot a finish.

Scheffler is looking to become the 10th golfer in Masters history to win two green jackets in a three-year span, and given his level of play over the last two years, no one is doubting he can accomplish his goal. Should he do so, he would pick up a $3.6 million winner's check out of a record  2024 Masters prize money allotment -- a $20 million purse .

While five-time Masters champion Tiger Woods set a new record at Augusta National by making the weekend in his 24th consecutive playing of the tournament, he completely ejected on Saturday with his worst score in a major championship round. Tiger rebounded Sunday while playing his 100th round at Augusta National  but nevertheless signed for a 16 over, his worst score to par at a major and the second-worst round overall across his professional career. (At least he wasn't among the major stars who missed the cut .)

Be sure to follow Masters live leaderboard coverage throughout the final round on Sunday for scores, analysis and highlights. It's a perfect second-screen complement to the Masters viewing experience provided to you by CBS.

While attending the Masters is a dream for many, simply being able to watch golf on the grandest stage of them all is an incredible treat each year, and we here at CBS Sports are thrilled to bring you wall-to-wall coverage of the Masters throughout this week.

CBS Sports offers extensive, week-long coverage across all its platforms with its traditional 18-hole broadcast coverage beginning with the third round on Saturday and final-round action on Sunday. Jim Nantz, in his 39th consecutive year covering the Masters, serves as host for the 37th time. 2008 Masters champion Trevor Immelman joins Nantz as the lead analyst at the Masters for the second time. Nantz and Immelman link up with CBS Sports' incredible golf team, including on-course reporter Dottie Pepper and the legendary Verne Lundquist, who will be calling his final Masters.

Enough talking about it. Here's how you can watch as much Masters as possible on Sunday. Be sure to stick with CBS Sports for live coverage throughout and download the CBS Sports app  to watch Masters Live on your mobile device.

All times Eastern

Round 4 -- Sunday, April 14

Round 4 start time:  9:15 a.m. [ Tee times ]

Masters Live stream Desktop and mobile:  Free on  CBSSports.com ,  CBS Sports app Connected devices*:  Available on  Paramount+ ,  CBS Sports app *Paramount+ login required

• Masters on the Range : 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (CBS Sports Network)
• Featured Groups  -- 9:35 a.m. to 7 p.m. 9:35 a.m. -- Tiger Woods, Neal Shipley (A) 11:45 a.m. -- Jon Rahm, Tony Finau 12:45 p.m. -- Joaquín Niemann, Rory McIlroy 2:15 p.m. -- Bryson Dechambeau, Xander Schauffele
• Amen Corner  -- 11:45 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Holes 15 & 16  -- 12:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• Holes 4, 5 & 6 -- 10:55 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Masters.com)

TV coverage:  2-7 p.m. on CBS TV simulcast live stream:  2-7 p.m. on  CBSSports.com ~,  Paramount+ ,  CBS Sports app ~ ~TV provider or Paramount+ with Showtime login required Round 4 encore: 8 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. on CBS Sports Network

Additional Masters coverage

Masters on the Range Monday 12-2 p.m. , Tuesday 9-11 a.m. , Wednesday 9-11 a.m. | CBS Sports Network,  Paramount+

We Need to Talk at the Masters Saturday, 12:30-1:30 p.m. | CBS,  Paramount+ The Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship: An Invitation to the Masters Saturday, 1:30-2 p.m. | CBS,  Paramount+

The 2019 Masters: A Sunday Unlike Any Other Saturday, 2-3 p.m. | CBS,  Paramount+

The Latin America Amateur Championship: An Invitation to the Masters Sunday, 12:30-1 p.m. | CBS,  Paramount+ Jim Nantz Remembers Augusta: The Spanish Inspiration Sunday, 1-2 p.m. | CBS,  Paramount+

Further details from CBS Sports

Live streaming coverage provided by Masters.com

Featured Groups : Shane Bacon, Colt Knost and Billy Kratzert will lead  Featured Groups  morning coverage. In addition, Brian Crowell and Smylie Kaufman will serve as announcers for the afternoon  Featured Groups  coverage.

Amen Corner : Grant Boone and Mark Immelman serve as announcers for live streaming coverage of the 11th, 12th and 13th holes.

15 & 16:  Iona Stephen, Ned Michaels and Smylie Kaufman provide commentary and analysis for live streaming coverage on the 15th and 16th holes.

Masters On the Range:  Presented Monday through Sunday on Masters Live, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+ and CBS Sports Digital,  Masters on the Range  will feature interviews with players, analysis of those in the field and breakdowns from the Tournament Practice Area at Augusta National leading up to and throughout the 2024 Masters. Kelly Tilghman, Michael Breed, Brian Crowell, Amanda Balionis and Iona Stephen will provide commentary throughout the week.

In addition to live golf action, Masters Live will present video highlights and Augusta National aerials, as well as historical footage and Interview Room commentary. Masters Live will be available on Paramount+ as well as CBSSports.com and the CBS Sports app for mobile devices.

CBS Sports HQ , the free 24/7 streaming sports news network, will have nearly 50 hours of comprehensive live coverage beginning Monday, April 8. CBS Sports HQ will feature on-site previews and recaps after each round, live look-ins, leaderboard updates as well as interviews with Trevor Immelman following the third and final rounds.  The First Cut  and co-hosts Kyle Porter and Rick Gehman also will be on-site to break down all the action on CBS Sports HQ, with daily podcasts and additional episodes airing on CBS Sports Network. CBS Sports HQ is available on CBSSports.com and the CBS Sports app for mobile and connected TV devices.

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Watch CBS News

Why did Dexter Reed traffic stop, shootout with Chicago Police escalate so rapidly?

By Chris Tye , Tara Molina

Updated on: April 10, 2024 / 12:02 PM CDT / CBS Chicago

CHICAGO (CBS) -- The Civilian Office of Police Accountability and an independent expert both said Monday that it appears 26-year-old Dexter Reed fired first in a shootout last month that ultimately left him dead  and also left a Chicago Police officer injured.

Bodycam video of the incident was released Tuesday, with more than 30 videos released. Before it was over, one of Reed's shots struck an officer.

Meanwhile, there are other questions — like how and why a team of five tactical officers zeroed in on Reed in the first place.

The shootout occurred on March 21 in the 3800 block of West Ferdinand Street, toward the southern end of the Humboldt Park neighborhood.

The shootout followed a traffic stop when five plainclothes CPD tactical unit officers in an unmarked squad car pulled Reed over. In body camera footage, officers tell Reed to roll down his window and ask him, "What are you doing?"

After rolling down his window, Reed started rolling it up, prompting officers to repeatedly tell him, "Don't roll the window up," and, "Unlock the doors."

Within seconds of the beginning, the conflict escalates frantically and deadly.

COPA doubted Reed was pulled over for not wearing a seatbelt

A COPA news release issued Tuesday indicated that a seatbelt violation was why Reed was pulled over.

However, early Tuesday evening, CBS 2 obtained a letter issued by Kersten to police Supt. Larry Snelling – in which she wrote that "the available evidence calls into question the veracity" of the claim that a seat belt violation was the initial reason for pulling over Reed.

"Specifically, COPA is uncertain how the officers could have seen this seat belt violation given their location relative to [the] vehicle and the dark tints on vehicle windows," Kersten wrote in the letter on April 1. "This evidence raises serious concerns about the validity of the traffic stop that led to the officers' encounter [Reed]."

In line with the bodycam video, the letter does say the officers ordered Reed to lower his windows and unlock his doors, after which he fired toward the passenger side of his vehicle and shot one of the officers.

"During the initial volley of gunfire, [Reed] remained in his vehicle and eventually pulled forward, colliding with a parked car in front of him. Then exited his vehicle on the driver's side, leaving his firearm on the front passenger seat, and began to flee around the rear of the vehicle," Kersten wrote. "All four officers again discharged their firearms at [Reed], striking him multiple times. [Reed] then fell to the ground and the gunfire stopped for a moment. As he lay motionless on the ground, [one of the officers] fired at an additional three times."

Kersten wrote that the evidence showed all four officers kept firing their guns after Reed got out of the car – by which point he was unarmed.

"Additionally, the officers fired approximately 96 shots, raising serious questions about the proportionality of their use of deadly force," Kersten wrote. "[One officer], in particular, fired at least 50 times, including the three final shots, while was lying motionless on the ground."

The letter questioned the officers' assessment of "what is a necessary, reasonable, and proportional use of deadly force."

"Based upon the serious nature of the allegations, including the questionable basis of the traffic stop and proportionality of the shooting, COPA recommends that CPD reevaluate the officers' current assignments and relieve them of police powers pending the resolution of COPA's investigation," Kersten wrote in the letter.

At a minimum, Snelling was advised to suspend one officer who fired at least 50 shots all himself — including the three final shots when Reed was lying motionless on the ground.

The letter added that COPA had another investigation open for a traffic stop involving the same five officers, which occurred less than a month earlier and was also purported to be based on a seat belt violation.

Earlier Tuesday, Kersten spoke at a news conference with Mayor Brandon Johnson, and she later spoke at a City Club of Chicago luncheon. She did not discuss what she wrote in the letter to Snelling.

Kersten did reiterate Tuesday that COPA believes Reed fired first.

She did not point to a specific video, portion of the video, or other element released Tuesday that indicates why investigators believe Reed fired first. She said that it was based only on all of the video footage and ballistic evidence.

"COPA's initial review, making that determination, is based off of the available evidence we have now – which is really video evidence and some audio that is captured on the video, as well as some additional ballistics evidence that's been collected from the scene," Kersten said. "But we will, of course be awaiting the Illinois state police's testing of that evidence for further confirmation of additional aspects of ballistic evidence."

Mayor Brandon Johnson said he met with Reed's family after the shooting and offered his condolences for his death.

"As mayor and as a father raising a family, including two Black boys on the West Side of Chicago, I am personally devastated to see yet another young Black man lose his life during an interaction with the police," Johnson said. "Our heart breaks for the family of Dexter Reed. They are grieving the loss of a son, a brother, and a nephew."

Professor David Harris of the University of Pittsburgh School of Law said if Reed shot first - as COPA says he did - the officers were justified in returning fire. But some big questions remain.

Harris said that among them is whether the officers explained to Reed why they were surrounding his car.

"That is a missing piece. You would expect — the car is pulled over, 'Sir, I stopped you for X,'" Harris said, "and I didn't hear that."

What was heard in the bodycam videos was a barrage of gunfire as the suspect off in the distance appeared to lie lifeless on the ground. Reed's weapon, COPA said, was later found inside the vehicle.

"Once that firing starts and the adrenaline pumps, police will often continue firing until they get a very clear command to stop," Harris said.

In a statement, COPA said it appeared after "Mr. Reed did not comply" with commands, "officers pointed their firearms," COPA also wrote that "Mr. Reed fired first."

"If you fire at police, you should expect return fire," said Harris. "There's just no other way of looking at it."

Former Chicago Police First Deputy Supt. Anthony Riccio also said it is important that accounts say Reed did not comply with verbal directions and then fired at officers.

"They repeatedly gave verbal directions to Mr. Reed to show his hands, get out of the car, roll his windows down - and he opened fire," Riccio said.

Riccio said whether and how police told Reed why they were pulling him over is also a critical question.

"One of the things that are going to have to come out in the investigation," Riccio said. "These incidents occur very quickly. I think the whole span of this may be a couple minutes."

Meanwhile, there is the question of whether police tactical teams routinely conduct traffic stops. COPA said that is a question for the Police Department - but the oversight agency is looking into the issue and what the tactical unit's task was that day exactly.

CBS 2 asked Riccio whether tactical units – which typically respond rapidly to crime hotspots and serious crimes in progress, such as an officer down – usually perform traffic stops like the one involved in this case.

"Obviously, something attracted them to him, and the tactical teams are really the guys who work in the districts, and go out, and really look for the hardcore bad guys; the guys with the guns," Riccio said. "We know Mr. Reed was carrying a gun unlawfully in his vehicle – and, you know, what was his intention?"

COPA added that the officers did not know anything about Reed's history when they pulled him over.

• Police Shooting
• Chicago Police Department
• Humboldt Park
• Dexter Reed

Chris Tye is a reporter and fill-in anchor at CBS2 Chicago.

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Dorothea Snowden turns 100 years old

A local centenarian received a letter from the king of england for her 100th birthday.

Dorothea Snowden celebrated her 100th birthday on March 26, at the Amazing Grace retirement home care. But this year’s birthday brings with it a surprise.

A letter from the King of England himself was received extending his heartfelt congratulations and admiration for her century of life.

Dorothea was born and raised in England and moved to South Africa during the early 1960s. She was married to her late husband for 74 years and a mother of two children, five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Born a century ago, Dorothea has witnessed the profound transformations of the 20th and 21st centuries, from the arrival of modern technology to the evolution of social norms and cultural paradigms.

Wendy Blomkamp (76) described her mother as a very disciplined, tough, and kind woman with a great sense of humour. “My mother is one of the strongest people I know and she worked very hard from when we were young till today. She is very active for her age, but very demanding and a perfectionist in everything she does,” she said.

Throughout her life, Dorothea has been guided by a strong sense of integrity, compassion, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Receiving a letter from the king is a testament to Dorothea’s extraordinary life and the impact she has made on those around her.

“Even in her 90s, she remains actively engaged in various volunteer activities, singing to raise money for local charities and organisations,” said Blomkamp. Dorothea is a living testament to resilience, wisdom, and the enduring spirit of the human journey.

“Despite her age and that she has lost her sight, Dorothea maintains a youthful curiosity and keenness for life, embracing each day with gratitude and enthusiasm. She finds joy in simple pleasures like singing for her loved ones,’’ explains her nurse Bulelwa Motshamayi.

As she celebrates her 100th birthday, Dorothea reflects on a life well-lived, filled with cherished memories, meaningful connections, and a legacy of kindness and generosity. Her journey serves as an inspiration to generations past, present, and future, reminding us all of the profound beauty and resilience of the human spirit.

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Total solar eclipse 2024: Watch video and see photos of the sky spectacle

EAGLE PASS, Texas − In a moment of cosmic alignment that was precisely predicted yet undeniably mysterious , the moon crept across the face of the sun as seen from Earth, casting its shadow onto the United States on Monday.

And then it was over: A total eclipse of the sun has come and gone.  

The partial shadow crossed into the U.S. in Texas just after noon local time, and a bit more than an hour later, the minutes of “totality” began. The total eclipse of the sun then traced a path from southern Texas to northern Maine, where it exited into Canada and the ocean beyond.

The rare event was an astronomical experience like no other. Monday's eclipse was unusually accessible to millions of people. It was widely anticipated not only for its remarkable period of darkness, but for its rare timing: No total solar eclipse would be visible from the contiguous United States again until 2044. While millions of Americans may have seen today’s eclipse, a small group in Texas was among the very first.

Edge of eclipse shadow began in south Texas

Alejandra Martinez, a seventh-grade science teacher from the south Texas border city of Eagle Pass, peered up at the gray, gauzy sky, anxiously awaiting the solar eclipse’s entrance into the USA.

Sitting with a telescope under a camping canopy in a corner of the county airport, Martinez, 42, and two other science enthusiasts had been recruited by NASA to participate in an effort called Citizen CATE 2024, where more than 30 teams perched in the eclipse’s path will record the shadowy trek across the country. 

In this spot, less than five miles from the U.S.-Mexico border, she and her team would be among the first people in the U.S. to witness the phenomenon. Eagle Pass sits near the very beginning of the eclipse’s track from southwest to northeast across the country. It also sits very near dead-center of it, where the period of “totality” will be the longest. That total shadow was still more than an hour away when the edge of the shadow began to darken the sky.

Martinez, dressed in a “This Totality Rocks” T-shirt and eclipse-themed skirt, watched as the penumbra crept across the airfield, about 10 minutes past noon local time. She put on her eclipse glasses and peered up at the sky. The gauzy clouds parted. “There it is! There it is!” she yelled. “First contact. It’s begun!”

Clouds came and went as the shadow grew for the next hour. As totality approached Eagle Pass, the sky shaded a dull gray then a heavy brown and the temperature dropped a few degrees. Only a sliver of the sun remained.

A few seconds before 1:27 p.m. CT, the crowd counted down, “3..2..1…” The sun was gone, completely covered by the moon. Darkness spread over the small airport grounds. “Oh my god,” Martinez said, a hand covering her heart. “This is so cool!”

How to tell if you have eye damage from looking at a partial eclipse?

For those who took a chance and looked at the sun without protective eyewear during the eclipse, concerns may arise if their vision starts to seem impaired. Have they suffered eclipse blindness?

Looking directly at the sun even briefly without the proper safety glasses can result in eye damage, either temporary or permanent. The body's natural squinting reaction in normal circumstances prevents people from staring directly at the sun, but that reflex may not be activated during partial eclipses, even though a partly shielded sun can still burn the retina.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology says pain won't be an indication of damaged eyes because the retina lacks pain nerves. Worrisome signs are instead blurry vision, headaches, light sensitivity, blind spots in the central vision, distorted vision and changes in color perception. Anyone experiencing those symptoms should see an ophthalmologist, the AAO says.

What was the timeline of the 2024 solar eclipse?

The total eclipse began in Mexico at about 11:07 a.m. PDT, Monday before crossing into Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT. It ended in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT. Even those who weren't in the path of totality could see a percentage of the eclipse.

To find out exactly when the eclipse occurred in your area, you can search by  USA TODAY's database by ZIP code  for a viewing guide.

Students in Washington get hands-on learning

Dozens of students spilled out of Ida B. Wells Middle School in Washington, D.C., gripping cardboard solar eclipse glasses and chatting with excitement. “Why is the sun shaped as a moon?” one student asked after looking toward the sun. “Why is it not getting dark?’’ asked another.

Teacher Troy Mangum, who the students called “Mr. Mango,’’ slowly explained the science behind the experience as he cautioned others to put on their glasses. Students at the school in northwest D.C. had had lessons about the eclipse leading up the day’s teaching outside the classroom.

“Anytime we can get hands on or dynamic learning … it’s invaluable,’’ said Mangum, a social emotional learning coach. “We talked about it so much. It’s nice to see them get excited about qeeky Mr. Mango type of stuff.”

Skylar Cruel, 12, had come outside with her science class. “I just really wanted to see it,’’ she said. “You get to see it turn from light to dark.”

Steps away at Whittier Elementary School, which focuses on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), younger students put on their glasses and tilted their heads up toward the sun behind their school.

Michael Haile joined his daughter, Markan Worku, 9, a student at Whittier, and brought along his 5-year-old son, Keab. He called it a memorable experience for his children. Markan, who had been learning about solar eclipses in her third-grade class, simply said, “This is cool!’’ 

− Deborah Berry

In Michigan, a bonding experience for a mother and her three kids

In Michigan, eclipse enthusiasts packed a watch party along the Detroit Riverwalk near Cullen Plaza. They sat on the grass, on benches and berms. For Janelle Ikonen of Waterford, it was a chance to bond with her three children − Hannah, 9; Elim, 12; and Isaac, 14 − whom she took out of school for the day.

“I wanted to experience a unique event with them,” said Ikonen, 47. “It’s one of my big deals to me, to experience things with my kids. … I hope they’ll remember spending time with me.”

In Grand Rapids, where 94% coverage of the sun was expected, viewers gathered on the city's “Blue Bridge,” which offered a view of the eclipse over the Grand River. With no cloud cover over the city, visitors had an unobstructed scene. The Grand Rapids Public Museum set up a series of solar telescopes.

Jill and Wes Johnson, 50 and 14, were among those awaiting max coverage. They’d considered traveling from Grand Rapids to a place with total coverage, but decided 94% coverage was worthwhile enough to stay home.

“I think people are excited to see something unique,” Jill Johnson said.

− Georgea Kovanis and Arpan Lobo, Detroit Free Press

US women's soccer team takes in eclipse ahead of title game

COLUMBUS, Ohio − The U.S. women’s national soccer team took a break from SheBelieves Cup preparation to watch the eclipse. 

Several team members, including World Cup veterans Crystal Dunn, Alyssa Naeher, Naomi Girma and Trinity Rodman, coaches and staff members donned eclipse glasses and went outside their hotel to see the rare event.

As the sky darkened and the moon moved in front of the sun, someone yelled, “Come on, keep going!” Columbus is just outside the path of totality, so all but a sliver of the sun wound up being covered. 

The USWNT is in Columbus for the final of the SheBelieves Cup on Tuesday night against Canada.

− Nancy Armour

Witnessing the first total eclipse from a cruise ship

Passengers aboard Holland America's Koningsdam cruise ship eagerly gathered on the top decks at 10 a.m. local time to watch the spectacle of a solar eclipse.

Positioned off the coast of Mazatlan, Mexico − the first city in North America to witness the total eclipse − the ship provided an ideal vantage point for viewing the celestial event. Accompanied by an astronomer, the captain meticulously adjusted the ship's position to ensure the best possible view.

Dan Fueller, an experienced eclipse observer who had previously seen similar phenomena from ships in 1991 and 1998, emphasized the advantages of viewing the eclipse from a cruise ship. He noted the flexibility of the ship's mobility allowed for optimal positioning along the eclipse's path, ensuring unobstructed views.

"You're on a cruise ship and (the best view) is a little bit farther to the west or a little bit farther to the east − along the path, there's a clear sky − the ship can move. If you're on land and there's not a road there, you better have a tank."

− Joshuan Rivera

Partial eclipse 'like a little Pac-Man taking a bite out of the sun'

In Parthenon, Arkansas, the eclipse began near the Buffalo National River. Five friends traveled from Florida to be on a rock outcropping to witness the celestial event.

“Yes! I see it!” Angie Printiss exclaimed.

“Oh ya! You can see it,” said Kate Estes. “It’s like a little Pac-Man taking a bite out of the sun.”

At 20 minutes before totality, the sky got noticeably darker. The shadow of crescent sun shapes played off the limestone rocks.

“It looks like water − like fish scales,” Estes said. “That is so weird, when the trees move you can really see it.”

− Jennifer Portman

New Englanders travel for better view of the eclipse

Crowds ballooned into the thousands midday Monday in the center of St. Johnsbury, Vermont, as the nearly cloudless sky and warm sun boosted temperatures to an unseasonably 60 degrees.

Jim and Kim Cooper drove over from New Hampton, New Hampshire, their first time doing more than just passing through the town locals call St. Jays. Their son had proposed to his girlfriend in Tennessee during the 2017 eclipse and then had an eclipse-themed wedding, but the Coopers had never seen a total eclipse for themselves, so they decided to come to the closest place where they could be assured of a good view.

Jeffrey Breau had seen that 2017 eclipse for himself and was so impressed that he convinced family members to join him this time. Breau’s girlfriend, Nell Hawley, came up with him from Cambridge, Massachusetts, while his brother Alex and his girlfriend Diana Ventura drove up from New York City. The Breau brothers' father, Walter, joined them in taking in their first eclipse.

“I would have been OK watching it in the yard,” Walter said, though he would only have seen a partial eclipse from there. “That’s what you think now,” Jeffrey said quickly. “Talk to me in two hours.”

− Karen Weintraub

Kids bring homemade eclipse viewers to National Mall

Lucas and Lucy Porto Banco didn’t need to buy fancy eclipse glasses – the 7- and 10-year-old siblings made their own eclipse viewers from two cardboard shoe boxes left over from a couple of their mom’s recent shoe purchases.With the help of a YouTube tutorial video, they made two holes in each box with a whittling knife and taped tin foil over. Then they used dry spaghetti to poke holes in the tin foil for the sun’s light to pass through and project onto the dark inside of the box.The kids put together the viewer in little more than five minutes, Lucy said. “Maybe 15, with covering all the gaps in the shoe box,” she said.Even with his own eclipse-viewing creation, Lucas said he may still take advantage of his eclipse glasses. “I’m going to do both,” he said.

− Cybele Mayes-Osterman

What is an 'umbra?' − and other eclipse words

Astronomers and eclipse enthusiasts used a bunch of specialized words Monday as the nation experienced its first solar eclipse since 2017 and the last one for until 2044. Here are a few of those terms and what they mean, according to the American Astronomical Society .

Baily's Beads – This refers to the beaded appearance of the moon's edge as the eclipse nears totality. Shafts of sunlight shine through deep valleys on the moon's surface, which causes the effect known to observers as Bailey's Beads.

Umbra – The darkest part of the moon’s shadow, within which the entirety of the sun's bright face is blocked. An observer standing in the umbra sees a total solar eclipse.

Penumbra: The lighter part of the moon's shadow, making up its outer portion, where light can reach.

Corona – The sun’s upper atmosphere, visible as a pearly glow around the eclipsed sun during totality.

Totality – The maximum phase of a total solar eclipse, during which the moon’s disk completely covers the sun's bright face. It can last from a fraction of a second to a maximum of 7 minutes, 31 seconds, depending on viewing location and other factors.

− Dale Denwalt, The Oklahoman

A last-minute search for glasses for 'a perfect spot'

Patsy Faoro walked toward a half dozen people gathered at the gate of Turner Farm Park in Great Falls, Virginia. The people were awaiting the opening of an eclipse viewing event complete with telescopes and educational presentations.

Faoro, who lives near the park in this upscale Northern Virginia neighborhood, just wanted glasses to safely view the eclipse.

She visited CVS, Safeway and a 7/11 convenience store, all of which had advertised the availability of glasses to view the eclipse. None of the retailers had any glasses remaining when Faoro checked this morning.

“We have this great big open space that’s a perfect spot,” said Faoro, who viewed her first eclipse in the 1970s. “We just need some glasses.”

− Ken Alltucker

Indianapolis Motor Speedway event draws tens of thousands

Tory Patrick, 41, is hoping to give her four children a once-in-a-lifetime learning opportunity. Patrick and her family traveled 160 miles to Indianapolis Motor Speedway from their home in Granger, Indiana. They were expected to have 97% totality at home, but it’s not the same as total coverage, she said.

“They will be getting the full experience that they can’t read about in textbooks,” Patrick said.

Patrick and her sister Cally Gannon, 39, from Cincinnati, met in Indianapolis to view the eclipse from the speedway. They camped outside IMS over the weekend ahead of the event and on Sunday afternoon saw a double rainbow over the speedway’s iconic pagoda. An estimated 50,000 tickets were sold for the day’s festivities, presented in partnership with NASA and Purdue University.

Elsewhere in the stands, Ryan Harper, 30, knows today is special.

“We’re right in totality,” he said. “This sometimes doesn’t happen in people’s lifetimes.

— Sarah Bowman and Jade Thomas

Family travels from Baltimore to Rochester, N.Y., to view the eclipse

When Maze Pelham of Baltimore was a fifth-grader, he watched news of the 2017 solar eclipse and vowed to witness the next notable solar eclipse. That eclipse, and that day, has come. And this is why he and his parents, Janice and Sonney Pelham, left Maryland around 1 a.m. on Monday and drove nearly seven hours to Rochester, New York.

“I said to myself I would go to the next one,” Maze Pelham said while seated with his parents on lawn chairs at downtown Rochester’s Parcel 5 park, where he and hundreds of others are awaiting a view of the full eclipse. “It’s a promise I made to myself.”

– Democrat and Chronicle, part of the USA TODAY Network

In Brooklyn: Eclipses glasses, check. Lawn chair, check.

Ralph Emerson held a pair of paper sunglasses in his hands while riding the subway to Brooklyn's sprawling Prospect Park on Monday. He exited the train with a folded lawn chair strapped across his shoulder, and said he felt energized and full of anticipation.

"This is special," Emerson, 61, said. "I haven't woken up with this much excitement since the Super Bowl."

Walking to the park's botanic garden, Emerson said appreciating natural phenomena makes it easier to manage the stresses that come with living in a big city. Also like a big sports game, the eclipse will draw lots of people together to experience something much larger than themselves, in community, he said.

"A lot of times it's tragedies that bring us together, but sometimes things like this do," he said.

− Claire Thornton

Texas Eclipse Festival cut short by weather

The Texas Eclipse Festival was canceled Monday in Burnet County, 50 miles northwest of Austin, because of weather concerns. The festival, which included bands and other events, began Sunday and was supposed to wrap up Tuesday.

"We regret to inform you of the severe weather forecast, including risks of high winds, tornadic activity, large hail, and thunderstorms for later today, including during the eclipse, Tuesday, and Wednesday," festival organizers said on their website. "Your safety is our top priority."

Festivalgoers were urged to leave early for safety and to beat traffic. Guests, however, were allowed to stay "provided they pack and are prepared to depart after totality."

Traffic jams, collisions mar eclipse watchers' travel

Traffic crashes and road delays were reported across the nation as Americans flocked to prime locations to gaze up at the rare solar eclipse . Local roads and highways in states including Texas, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Vermont and New Hampshire were overwhelmed with eclipse chasers, many of whom were from out of state. The most intense bottlenecks appeared to be in the path of totality , where spectators will be able to view the full eclipse.

In Oklahoma, a crash around 7:30 a.m. local time narrowed eastbound lanes on I-40, a major transcontinental highway that runs from California to North Carolina. The crash occurred not far from several state parks that were hosting eclipse events, and it's also within driving distance of the full eclipse path, which includes parts of southeastern Oklahoma and Arkansas.

Multiple crashes were reported on an interstate in Waco, Texas, a city in the path of totality, where several festivities and eclipse viewing events were scheduled. The crashes all occurred on I-35, which runs from southern Texas to Minnesota.

"Expect major traffic delays in this area," the Texas Department of Transportation said in a statement .

− Christopher Cann

Airport draws a crowd of jets for eclipse

EAGLE PASS, Texas − Maverick County International Airport in Eagle Pass, Texas, usually sees maybe three private planes a day. By 10 a.m. CT on Monday, more than 10 planes crowded the tarmac, including Cessnas, Pipers and at least one corporate jet − all there to catch an early glimpse of the total solar eclipse. Eagle Pass will be one of the first American cities to witness the phenomenon. Some watchers, like Brandon Beck, 43, flew in Sunday night from San Diego and spent the night in a sleeping bag on the tarmac next to his friend’s Mooney single-prop piston four-seater.“We’re so lucky to be on a planet where the sun is the perfect size and perfect distance to create that effect,” he said. “It’s obligatory. We have to see it.”

First the Cherry Blossoms, then the eclipse

WASHINGTON − The Cherry Blossoms brought Ali and Aurore Youssouf to the city all the way from Paris, but the pair were delighted to learn that their trip would overlap with the eclipse. The day is extra special for Aurore Youssouf, 43, who has never seen an eclipse before. On Monday morning, the couple arrived by chance at the National Mall early enough to snag a few pairs of free eclipse glasses distributed by the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum for the occasion.“We didn’t even know. We just ended up here and found out that they were giving away some glasses,” said Ali Youssouf, 46.

Awaiting eclipse − and hail − in Texas

KERRVILLE, Texas − Forecasts called for considerable cloudiness, rain and possible hail, but retired NASA engineer Jeff Stone stayed positive as he and his wife prepared to host more than a dozen people for a watch party at their hilltop home in Texas Hill Country. Stone, an eclipse enthusiast who had met family in Missouri to watch the solar eclipse of 2017, said he recently reviewed video footage of that event and said current conditions weren’t that much different than they were back then.

“I’m outside and seeing patches of blue among scattered clouds, so we’re remaining hopeful,” he said.

About 150 miles to the northeast in Gatesville, lead pastor Eric Moffett of Coryell Community Church said a similar forecast did little to deter an expected gathering of about 800 visitors for the church’s family-oriented “Eclipse at the Crosses” event. Many, if not most, were from out of town or even out of country − Canada, Wales, France, Italy. Many locals were staying home to avoid the crowd, he said.

“It’s partly cloudy, but the sun is shining on me right now,” he said. “We are praying that it stays that way.”

− Marc Ramirez

What is the difference between a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse?

A  total solar eclipse  occurs when the moon comes in between the Earth and the sun, blocking its light from reaching our planet, leading to a period of darkness lasting several minutes. A total lunar eclipse occurs when the moon and the sun are on exact opposite sides of Earth. The Earth blocks the sunlight that normally reaches the moon. Instead of that sunlight hitting the moon’s surface, Earth's shadow falls on it.

A lunar eclipse can last for a few hours, while a solar eclipse lasts only a few minutes. Solar eclipses also rarely occur, while lunar eclipses are comparatively more frequent. While at least two partial lunar eclipses happen every year, total lunar eclipses are still rare, NASA says. Another major difference: No special glasses or gizmos are needed to view the a lunar eclipse, and people can directly stare at the moon.

− Saman Shafiq

Solar eclipse, lunar eclipse: What is the difference?

Can you drive during the solar eclipse?

The  2024 solar eclipse  will shroud much of the United States in darkness on Monday, leaving many people to wonder: Is it safe to drive during the solar eclipse?

It is safe to drive during an eclipse as long as you don't look up at the sky. AAA is telling drivers to be focused on the road if they are operating a car during the total solar eclipse. But the automobile insurance company is advising Americans who want to safely view the total eclipse to "find a safe place to park (not on the side of a road or highway) away from other traffic and then wear your eclipse glasses," said Aixa Diaz, a spokeswoman from AAA.

"Pack your patience, whether traveling a great distance or locally," Diaz said. "People will be out and about to catch a glimpse of the eclipse."

A similar scenario  played out in 2017 during the nation's last total solar eclipse : Congestion in some areas lasted for up to 13 hours after totality,  according to Transportation Research News , a National Research Council publication. An analysis of traffic patterns from that year suggests the worst of the traffic – on interstates and rural back roads alike – will kick off after the eclipse ends and everyone tries to leave all at once.

− Kayla Jimenez

When will the next solar eclipse happen?

It will be 20 years before there's a chance to  witness a total solar eclipse  in the United States again. According to NASA, after Monday's total solar  eclipse , the next one viewable from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Unfortunately, the 2044 total  solar eclipse  won't have the broad reach across the U.S. as the 2024 eclipse. The path of totality during the 2044 eclipse will only touch three states, according to the Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach and political space advocacy. The eclipse will begin in Greenland, sweep through Canada and end around sunset in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

But another eclipse scheduledfor Saturday, Aug. 12, 2045, will trace a path of totality over California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida and Georgia.

− Mary Walrath-Holdridge, Gabe Hauari and Eric Lagatta

Eclipse and pets: It's not the sky that's the problem

An  eclipse  itself isn't dangerous for domestic animals such as dogs and cats, but experts say it's probably best to not bring pets to  experience the April 2024 total solar eclipse . Experts' biggest concern is not what’s happening in the sky but on the ground as crowds of excited and  eager people gather , said Dr. Rena Carlson, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association. Dogs especially will take their cues from their owners rather than  the celestial event.

“Rather than the effects of the eclipse, I would be more worried about the excitement and all of the people,” Carlson said.

− Elizabeth Weise

A guide to the solar eclipse for kids

Here's an easy-to read, illustrated guide to help kids understand what the  April 8 total solar eclipse  means, where it will be visible and how you can watch it safely. It also shows them how an ordinary kitchen colander can easily be used to view a solar eclipse − the colander's holes can project crescent images of the sun onto the ground. There are even pages that can be downloaded and colored.

Trump's eclipse experience lit up internet in 2017

Seven years ago, when the last  total solar eclipse  crossed over North America, a photo of then-President Donald Trump  seemingly gazing at the sun with his naked eyes set the internet ablaze . During the afternoon of Aug. 21, 2017, Trump, who was president at the time, was joined by then first lady Melania Trump and their son Barron  to watch the rare phenomenon from the Truman Balcony  at the White House. Photos taken by members of the media captured all three donning eclipse glasses while looking at the eclipse.

But at one point during the viewing, the former president was captured in photos and videos without proper eye protection, seemingly gazing directly at the sun. Looking at an eclipse before or after the brief phase of totality without proper eyewear  can lead to eye damage .

− Natalie Neysa Alund

When is the next total solar eclipse? What to know about the next eclipse's path, timing

How to make a solar eclipse viewer

People who didn't manage to get their  hands on glasses  are not completely down and out. There are other safe ways to view the eclipse , say experts, and a lot of them only require a little bit of craftiness and items you can find lying around the house.

Steps to make the cereal box eclipse viewer (And here is a video aid) :

• Get an empty, clean cereal box.
• Cut a white piece of cardboard that will fit snuggly in the bottom of the box, or secure it permanently by gluing it in place.
• Cut the top of the cereal box, removing both ends and leaving the center intact.
• Put a piece of tape across the center of the top to securely hold it closed.
• Tape a piece of heavy-duty foil or double a single layer for additional strength, covering one of the openings at the top of the cereal box. The other opening will remain open for viewing.
• Using a small nail (approximately 3mm in diameter) push a hole in the foil.
• Cover the entire box with construction paper, leaving the single-viewing opening and the foil uncovered.

The finished box should be held with the pin-hole side facing the sun. It may take a little practice pointing the box. With your back facing the sun, look through the viewing opening. A small image of the sun, about ½ cm in diameter, can be seen projected on the white paper inside the box.

− Mary Walrath-Holdrid

What is the path of the solar eclipse called?

Those in the direct line of the eclipse will be treated to an incredible sight as the moon completely blots out the sun's disk, ushering in uncharacteristic darkness and revealing the sun's elusive outermost layer called the corona. That moment is called "totality" and this year the path of totality crosses through 13 U.S. states.

The last total solar eclipse to cut through North America was in August 2017.

How to look at eclipse without glasses

A total solar eclipse offers skygazers the rare opportunity to witness the eclipse with the naked eye. However,  solar eclipse glasses  are still needed until totality is reached. 

Certified solar eclipse  glasses are crucial for spectators to avoid the sun's retina-damaging rays. But when the moon moves completely in front of the sun and blocks its light, you'll know it's  safe to remove the glasses  for a short period of time.

How fast does an eclipse shadow travel?

According to a post from the  National Weather Service  in Indianapolis on X, an eclipse shadow travels at speeds from 1,100 to 5,000 mph. Near the equator, it travels at around 1,100 mph and increases in speed as it approaches the poles.

The eclipse party is over? Time to recycle those glasses!

Astronomers Without Borders , or AWB, a non-profit organization running its second nationwide  eclipse glasses recycling drive . Her business will join over 300 schools, museums, city governments, commercial businesses, community organizations and local libraries that will collect and ship an estimated  millions of glasses  to be repurposed for use by underserved communities around the world in  future solar eclipses .

AWB launched its first run of the program after the last solar eclipse in 2017 when volunteer centers across the country collected millions of the glass. After vetting them for reuse, more than  half a million glasses were distributed to Africa, Asia and South America.

People can visit  AWB's website  to find their nearest participating collection center and learn more about recycling the glasses, said Andrew Fazekas, the organization's communication manager.  

"We figure there's probably going to be tens of millions of glasses out there at the very least," he said. "And most of them are probably very gently used."