Abstract: A method of conducting a racing series for competitors and team owners is disclosed. The racing series has a plurality of races divided into a first and second set of races with competitors racing in both sets of races. The competitors and team owners are awarded points after each race, with those points being adjusted between the two sets of races. The points of only a predetermined number of competitors and/or team owners are adjusted between the sets of races. Awards, including a championship, is awarded based on the points accumulated during the racing series.

Abstract: A locking mechanism is described that releasably locks at least two objects together. The locking mechanism allows one of the objects to be rotatably connected to the other, allowing for a variety of uses. The rotatability and releasability of the locking mechanism allows several locking mechanisms to be used together as an escape hatch system, particularly for use in race vehicles. The locking mechanism has uses beyond the escape hatch system and is applicable to doors, cover, and other objects that are rotatably attached to a second object.

Abstract: A treeless riding pad has a first and second seating portion for two persons, and is particularly for use with handicapped and physically challenged riders. The riding pad allows a therapist or other professional to ride behind the rider and assist with therapy. The riding pad is made of soft materials and is typically an English-style pad. A looped member at the front of the riding pad allows the first rider to bold on to the animal. The riding pad has two sets of stirrups, allowing both riders to be stable while on the animal.

Abstract: A water heater control system is disclosed that can be programmed by a user to go on and off at predetermined times and maintain temperatures below normal usage temperatures. The water heater control system may also program itself based on usage of the hot water by users. The control system may also be remotely controlled, using a computer, wireless communication, or other communication device. The water heater control system may be included with a new water heater or used to replace existing control systems.

Abstract: A connector is provided for use in fiber to the desk applications. The connector according to the present invention includes a main housing with a passageway therethrough, a ferrule assemble mountable to the main housing, and a splice member. The connector also includes a latch on at least one exterior surface of the main housing to engage a corresponding structure in an adapter sleeve.

Abstract: A multifiber ferrule is provided that includes a ferrule body that defines at least one elongate hole opening through the front face of the ferrule body that, in turn, includes a lead-in portion proximate the front face for guiding the respective alignment member into the elongate hole. The ferrule body at least partially defines one or more elongate holes, such as a guide pin hole or an alignment groove, each having a longitudinal axis extending therethrough. Each elongate hole includes the lead-in portion proximate the front face and an adjacent alignment portion. The lead-in portion expands radially outward from the longitudinal axis in a direction extending from the adjacent alignment portion to the front face of the ferrule body. As such, the opening of the lead-in portion through the front face of the ferrule body is larger in lateral cross-section than the opening of the lead-in portion into the adjacent alignment portion.