1: Past tense of 'begin'.

3: A large dog originally bred for snow rescue and as a working dog.

7: Flying Brits, initially

9: 'I made this card ______ you Lisa.'

10: Speed competitions held at a specified time on a regular course; 'My grandpa is a big fan of horse ______.'

11: First bk.

13: Opposite of deteriorate

14: Opposite of opaque

17: Another term for 'endothermic'. Scientists debate whether dinosaurs were this.

20: National; especially in reference to the government.

22: 'Still __': 1999 rap hit

23: 'Knowledge itself is power' philosopher

24: Opposite of nice

26: A division of an ocean or a large body of salt water partially enclosed by land.

27: One less than eighteen.

28: 'See that ____ nest? I think it contains eggs.'

1: A thief who enters a building with intent to steal.

2: Bank stamp inits.

3: Is evenhanded

4: Stereotypically rural

5: Highlighter?

6: Outdoor theater

8: 'A ______ broke out in the middle of the hockey game.'

12: Shaq, for one

15: Having come or been brought to a conclusion.

16: Some movies have lots of special ______.

18: A one-piece garment for a woman; has skirt and top.

19: A band that fits around the neck and is usually folded over.

21: Military survey, for short

25: Coming-out participant, for short