1.  Despite being locked into the back of the house, they're taking things in stride.

2.  Despite her bold stance, the mounting criticism was taking its toll, touching, perhaps, the filial emotions of a more tradition-bound woman deep inside.

3.  Despite his fame, he didn't take himself or his movie career too seriously.

4.  Despite neighborhood protests, the beach volleyball competition will take place at Bondi Beach, a suburban surf beach.

5.  Despite Buchanan's surging start, the most likely outcome is that Dole, or possibly Alexander, will take the prize.

6.  Despite Carolina's "expansion" status, the Packers are taking nothing for granted.

7.  Despite constant pressure, the Galaxy couldn't take advantage of a couple early chances and one late in the opening half.

8.  Despite strong opposition from business leaders, the new plan would take another $660 million out of the unemployment fund over the next two years.

9.  Despite such precautions, many people are taking no chances on having a reliable power source.

10.  Despite that good news, six years of preparations have taken a heavy toll on Atlanta.