Abstract: Systems, methods and software merge a Virtual World, Live Event and Entertainment Channel, thus creating “The Perfect Storm” of gaming and entertainment whereby the characters of a social network game (e.g., an online fantasy sports league) are represented by human beings who register to be avatars of characters supported by a “Character Service Center,” while players compete to bring avatars to life in a Real World event (e.g., a Real World sports league), where the human beings behind the avatars compete for prizes while staying in character, as these competitors and players are incentivized by a “Collaboration Incentive Platform.

Abstract: Systems, methods and software merge a Virtual World, Live Event and Entertainment Channel, thus creating “The Perfect Storm” of gaming and entertainment whereby the characters of a social network game (e.g., an online fantasy sports league) are represented by human beings who register to be avatars of characters supported by a “Character Service Center,” while players compete to bring avatars to life in a Real World event (e.g., a Real World sports league), where the human beings behind the avatars compete for prizes while staying in character, as these competitors and players are incentivized by a “Collaboration Incentive Platform.

Abstract: A resilient, impact-resistant, one-piece ballast apparatus is useful to provide external weight and stability for portable barricades and signs. The ballast is a solid, compression molded rubber device having a predetermined weight and design features including thickness, shape, perimeter contour and holes that permit the ballast device to be easily handled, quickly and securely affixed to or removed from barricade and sign structures, and stored for transport or between uses. The flat surface of the ballast permits application of identifying indicia of ownership that prevents loss and promotes reuse with resultant savings of economy and resources.