Gaming consoles have become an integral part of our entertainment ecosystem. When a beloved console like the Xbox Series X encounters issues, it can be a frustrating experience. We had the opportunity to revive an Xbox Series X that faced video display and noise problems. Join us as we delve into the details of this repair journey and discover how we resolved the issues, ensuring an uninterrupted gaming experience for our customer.
Hearing about Us
Our customer first learned about our repair services through our Instagram. Intrigued by our expertise and reputation, they entrusted us with their Xbox Series X.
The Device and Symptoms
The Xbox Series X is a gaming powerhouse renowned for its cutting-edge features. This particular Xbox was experiencing two issues simultaneously: Firstly, the console was not displaying video, causing frustration for the user. Secondly, it emitted excessive noise during operation, indicating an underlying problem.
Diagnosis and assessment
Our skilled technicians promptly assessed the Xbox Series X to identify the root causes behind the issues. Not surprisingly, we found that a damaged HDMI port was responsible for the video display problem. The port had suffered damage due to a cheap HDMI cable purchased from Amazon. Additionally, the console was heavily clogged with dust, leading to the loud fan noise during use.
The Repair Process
To restore the Xbox Series X to its former glory, our technicians followed a comprehensive repair process. Firstly, they carefully disassembled the console, ensuring all components were accessible for inspection and cleaning. Using specialized tools such as a hot air station and a stereo microscope, they skillfully replaced the damaged HDMI port, guaranteeing a fully working display connection.
Moreover, our team addressed the dust accumulation issue by using compressed air to clean the console’s internals thoroughly. Additionally, the thermal sink was disassembled from the main logic board, allowing for the replacement of the dried-out thermal paste. This crucial step not only improved the console’s cooling efficiency but also prevented potential failure down the line.
Results and Turnaround Time
After completing the repairs and reassembling the console, our team conducted rigorous testing to ensure everything was functioning flawlessly. The repaired Xbox Series X now worked perfectly with the display, and operated quietly, restoring the immersive gaming experience our customer had missed.
We successfully completed the entire process within the quoted turnaround time of 2-3 days.
We understand the importance of uninterrupted gaming experiences. Our skilled technicians are dedicated to reviving your beloved gaming consoles, such as the Xbox Series X. In this instance, we were able to repair the video display issues caused by a damaged HDMI port and excessive noise due to dust accumulation.
By entrusting us with your gaming console repairs, you can rest assured that our experts will go above and beyond to restore your device’s optimal performance. Don’t let technical difficulties hinder your gaming adventures—reach out to us and let us breathe new life into your gaming consoles!


A slot is a narrow opening in a machine or container for inserting something, such as a coin. It may also refer to a position in a schedule or a program where an activity can take place. For example, a person might book a time slot to play tennis at the local club.
Slots are the casino game of choice for many players because they offer a fast and simple way to try their luck at winning some money. While they don’t require the same strategy or instincts that other casino games do, it’s still a good idea to have a basic understanding of how they work. There are a few tips that can help you get the most out of your time spent playing slots.
When playing slots, focus on speed and concentration. This will increase your chances of spinning in the winning combinations, especially if you keep pressing the spin button before the reels stop spinning. You should also minimize distractions and silence your cell phone so you can stay focused on the game.
The odds of hitting a specific sequence in a slot machine are determined by an algorithm known as the Random Number Generator (RNG). When you hit the spin button, the RNG generates a series of numbers that correspond to positions on each reel. These numbers are then mapped to symbols by the slot machine’s internal sequence table. The computer then uses this information to determine which symbol will land on each reel and where it will appear on the screen.
While it may be tempting to increase your bet size after every win, this can backfire and lead to costly mistakes. Instead, try to find a comfortable spot in the game that allows you to enjoy some wins and not be too frustrated by any losses. Some players even set a loss limit for themselves and will cash out once they reach this amount.
Slot machines use random number generators to determine the results of each spin, so it’s impossible to predict which combination will result in a big jackpot. However, you can improve your chances of winning by choosing a slot with a lower variance. This type of slot has a lower chance of paying out, but when it does, the payouts can be much larger. In addition, a slot with a lower volatility is often more fun to play.


Philmont Scout Ranch Information
Philmont Scout Ranch is the Boy Scouts of America’s largest national high-adventure base. It covers 137,000 acres — about 214 square miles — of rugged mountain wilderness in the Sangre de Cristo (Blood of Christ) range of the Rocky Mountains in northern New Mexico.
Thirty-four staffed camps and 55 trail camps are operated by the ranch. Philmont has high mountains dominating rough terrain with elevations ranging from 6,500 to 12,441 feet.
Philmont has a unique history of ancient Native Americans who chipped petroglyphs into canyon walls, Spanish conquistadors who explored the Southwest long before the first colonists arrived on the Atlantic coast, the rugged breed of mountain man like Kit Carson who blazed trails across this land, the great land barons like Lucien Maxwell who built ranchos along the Santa Fe Trail, and miners, loggers, and cowboys. All these people left their mark on Philmont.
Wildlife is abundant at Philmont. Deer, elk, coyote, antelope, mountain lion, buffalo, beaver, wild turkey, bear, and others all live here. Philmont’s hills and canyons teem with birds, and its streams abound with fish. Its cool mountains harbor a wilderness of bounty — trees, shrubs, flowers, and grasses.
Philmont is rich in natural beauty, including the soaring Tooth of Time, sunrise from lofty Mount Waite Phillips, the blue water of Cimarroncito Reservoir, the panoramic sweep of the plains from Urraca Mesa, and sunlight filtering through the aspens along the rippling Rayado.
Program features combine the best of the Old West — horseback riding, burro packing, gold panning, chuckwagon dinners, and interpretive history — with exciting challenges for today, such as rock climbing, burro racing, mountain biking, and .30–06 rifle shooting. It’s an unbeatable recipe for fast-moving fun and the outdoors.
Philmont means camping with your own unit as well as meeting and sharing experiences with other crews from all over America and from other countries. This is an opportunity for fellowship and understanding unequaled anywhere in America.


New Buffalo Township Library Event Calendar
|Time:||1:00 PM - 2:00 PM|
|Title:||Free Yoga Fridays: Chair Yoga|
|Description:||We are welcoming Susie Holzshuh for 8-Friday yoga classes leading us up to May! With two sessions in the afternoon, participants can choose one or both.
Chair Yoga is all levels will focus on core strength and flexibility and relaxation. She will include breathing techniques, chi gong, tapping and iRest (yoga Indra) with yoga postures using a chair and wall. This class is great for more body awareness for people recovering from illness or injury, have a chronic illness or can’t get up and down from the floor easily.
You are welcome to bring a strap and one or two blocks for your feet. A towel, comfortable clothes, and layering clothes are suggested. Journal and pen optional for notes.


An unexpected home
I first found pole dance when I was studying abroad in Seoul, South Korea in 2013. I was originally looking for a hip-hop dance studio, but the one I had found offered pole dance classes and I decided to try it out. Because why not? That was one of the best decisions of my life. Not only did I discover a meaningful way to get fit and express myself, but I also found the most beautiful community where I felt I could truly be myself. With no previous fitness or dance background, I’ve been blessed to have learned from some of the best instructors in the world while also taking time to explore my own style of movement.
Pole dance is about taking care of your health, spirit, and passions with the unwavering support of a loving and thriving community. Pole dance is a home where you’re not only learning to push your body’s limits and creative artistry, but also come to love it for everything that it is capable of and more. Talk to any pole dancer, and they’ll tell you how it changed their perspectives of their bodies and themselves for the better. Of course there’s beauty in every shape, trick, movement, but the ways in which pole dancers makes those intimately, personally, and unapologetically their own is the real journey. It can be sexy. It can be weird. It can be graceful. It can be anything that feels good for the pole dancer. I’m here for all of that and beyond.


In this course, you will:
- follow the path a Black Magnolia tea leaf takes in going from the field to your cup;
- on the way, you will learn how the flavors in Black Magnolia come about;
- appreciate the many different ways you can brew Black Magnolia tea;
- and discover how to use Black Magnolia tea in a delicious recipe—a springboard to developing your own recipes!
Of course you will need some Black Magnolia to try for yourself, so you'll receive an ounce of Black Magnolia for your tasting experience, an infuser, and, just for the fun of it, a small UV flashlight, so you can see the beauty of the tea as it responds to UV light.
Note that some of the materials in this course are included in our US Tea 101 course, so if you have taken that course you will receive a discount for this course.


Life looks different from the back of a horse...
At Kidz Discovery Ranch we offer riding experiences for five-year-olds and above. We take a different approach - it's more than just riding a horse. Our camps and lessons are goal oriented, with each lesson designed to help our participants reach the goal of learning how to successfully interact with the horses and other students for a rewarding experience.
RESPECT for ourselves and others
PATIENCE to achieve goals
SOCIAL SKILLS both human and equine
TRUST in learning life skills
SELF CONFIDENCE in our accomplishments
We start each student off by teaching complete grooming, saddling, and leading the horse. With safety in mind, we then teach how to mount and ride. We have instructors that offer different disciplines in horsemanship, including Western and English style.
Our day camps also include curriculum based activities, crafts and events linked to school standards using STEM’s lessons plans; including American History, Math and Life Science, Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Science.
We WELCOME visitors, so come by and see what we offer! See map and directions at Contact Us.
And we also welcome qualified VOLUNTEERS!!! Kidz Discovery Ranch is a very fun and rewarding place to make a difference. Our diverse programs offer a lot of opportunity to share your skills and knowledge and just plain caring.


I have a conceptual mind, passion for design, fondness for all colors and a vast knowledge of artistic techniques. I graduated from the University of Arizona with a BFA in Visual Communications and studied at Aalto University’s School of Arts, Design and Architecture in Helsinki.
My average day involves binging on podcasts, over thinking what’s for lunch and feeding my constant compulsion to create. I’m obsessed with art, design, architecture and anything in between. I’m dedicated, hard working, and in love with learning.
Most recently, I backpacked Southeast Asia and returned with a deep appreciation of the past, an eagerness to “be the change you want to see” and keychains.


Brunswick School of Dance would like to welcome you and your children to the beginning of another wonderful year of Dance. At Brunswick School of Dance your child will learn responsibility, the value of regular practice, the importance of a healthy body and team work through performances together. They will develop self-confidence and learn the personal joy and reward of doing their best. The greatest thing about dance is that it is fun, but while having good wholesome fun we will also be developing a greater love for music, and a stimulation of the imagination as your child learns to interpret and correlate sounds and movement. Dance encourages individual expression which builds more positive personalities. And above all your child will develop a love for dance and skills in the art that will follow them throughout the rest of their life.
Brunswick School of Dance has been operating for over 34 years and has earned an outstanding reputation of excellence. Brunswick School of Dance has always and will always remain a ‘family friendly’ studio. Our students learn amazing technique and innovative choreography. Dancers learn to trust and honor their own uniqueness.
Over the past thirty-four years our school has grown in students and experience. We have a staff of trained, dedicated professionals. We are your school and we are here to serve you and your children. We hope you and your child will decide to become a part of the growing Brunswick School of Dance family. See you soon!
Valerie R Taylor


Hey, everyone who studies Russian!I invite you to practice your Russian in my [free telegram chat](https://t.me/yaroslavarussian).
The thing I am really proud of is: We have **group calls every Sunday** to discuss recent news in Russian. It is a great opportunity to practice speaking and listening.
Topics that are always welcome in our chat:
* **»What does it mean?»** If you found an unknown word in Russian or have a hard time understanding a sentence in Russian. Co-chatters and I will be glad to help.
* **»How can I become better in Russian»** if you need feedback on your pronunciation, cursive, etc, just ask about it in chat 🙂
* **»About Russia»** traditions, culture, politics… We like to discuss it. And I am trying my best to share interesting facts.
* **»Fun part»** Memes in Russian, interesting videos, talking about our days, etc etc.
* И всё это по-русски!
It is **completely free** for anyone, but I think the chat will be helpful for people starting from the A2+ level.
I will be happy to see you there, and hopefully will talk with you tomorrow!
A bit about me:My name is Yaroslava. I am a Russian language teacher with more than 5 years of experience. Currently, I am also doing YouTube and all these online things. I want to make this chat help people to learn Russian, find motivation for studying, and be a safe and friendly space where they can practice Russian.
The link again: [https://t.me/yaroslavarussian](https://t.me/yaroslavarussian)


Tim Hirzel is currently serving as President of the Dance Discovery Board. Tim started dancing after taking a course in historic dancing given by Dr John Ramsay that his wife Elsa talked him into attending in St Louis around 2006. Tim quickly became an accomplished dancer and joined Dance Discovery in 2007. He also plays the flute with Dance Discovery and other English Dance bands.
Karen Jackson is currently serving as Dance Discovery Vice President.
For many years Karen enjoyed casual ballroom, country western, and freestyle dancing. Then she discovered contra dancing (a "relative" of English Country Dancing) in 1989, and quickly became addicted. She ventured into English Country Dancing a couple of decades later, becoming a caller of both contra and English dances, as well as of private Community dances.
In 2013, she was thrilled to be invited (along with her husband, Dan Klarmann) to join Dance Discovery. She has enjoyed rehearsing and performing with the troupe ever since.
Marty Aubuchon is currently serving as Treasurer. Marty started ballroom dancing while in college. He became interested in English Country Dance and that evolved into his membership in Dance Discovery. Marty also enjoys history and is a member of several reenacting groups. He participates in living history events and this includes historic or period dancing. In addition to historic music and dancing he enjoys World Music and has a Special Interest in American Indian Culture, music, dancing and playing the Indian flute.
Elizabeth Lengyel is currently serving as secretary of the Dance Discovery Board.
"A little over 20 years ago, my dancing opportunities were limited to an occasional waltz or polka at a wedding reception. That all changed when I was introduced to country dancing at a contra dance held by Childgrove Country Dancers in Webster Groves. The merriment of this social dancing was expanded by including English country dancing offered through St. Louis ECD and the aforementioned Childgrove Country Dance.
"I enjoy dancing and being able to help others who are new to country dancing. Five years ago, I was fortunate to join Dance Discovery which is a group comprised of talented dancers, callers, musicians, reenactors, and those interested in preserving historical dance. It's been a good and memorable journey."
Rebecca Taylor is the President of the St. Louis English Country Dancers and has been dancing in the style of Jane Austen for more than twenty-five years. Rebecca holds a Ph.D. in English literature from Washington University in St. Louis. Her dissertation is entitled Robinson Crusoe and the Reproduction of Singleness in England’s Long Eighteenth Century. Rebecca recently retired from Clayton High School after nineteen years of joyfully teaching Clayton’s wonderful teenagers. She delights in dancing with Dance Discovery’s lovely troupe.
Zoë Quinn is a Member at Large. A younger dancer, adding much verve to the group and the board.
Missy Reisenleiter is our Artistic Director and a founding member of Dance Discovery. From the group's beginning in August 2002, Missy has been performing regularly. She served as the group's Treasurer for two years, and served as President for eight years. Missy has danced and performed for many years, including historic dancing in Civil War groups to current memberships in the St. Louis English Country Dancers, Childgrove English Country Dancers and Blackthorn Morris. She has taught English Country dancing to church groups and school groups. Her desire is for Dance Discovery, the “Premier Historic Performance Troupe”, to use its skill and talent to keep these historic dance forms alive for many years to come!


Xpressor has added a photo to the pool:
Carl Zeiss Biogon 4.5/38 CF T*
Xpressor has added a photo to the pool:
Carl Zeiss Biogon 4.5/38 CF T*
Coolest Riads Morocco has added a photo to the pool:
Marrakech Riads-Riad Dar Najat& Riad Bab Essauira members of the coolest riads marrakech collection" by black zitoun
“A cool place to stay”
Riad Dar Najat
This Riad is very well located just near the Jemah-El-Fnaa place. It is very well renewed, nicely arranged and very quiet.
The team is nice, very friendly and available : many good tips, friendly discussions and easy laughs ! The breakfasts are also very good.
The team had organized a party for new year's eve, with belly dancers and a Gnawa music band : very cool !
There is also a jacuzzi : as we were in winter, the water was a bit cold.
blackstation has added a photo to the pool:
Canon 5dII / Canon14MM F2.8 / 3 photos pano
amaury_217 has added a photo to the pool:
If you like it
Have a look on that ...
Thank you and have a nice day
Le Lion 59 has added a photo to the pool:
Cloître qui jouxte la Cathédrâle de Chambéry.
Cloister which is adjacent to the Cathedral of Chambéry.
Kreuzgang, der neben der Kathedrale von Chambéry ist.
Claustro que se encuentra junto a la Catedral de Chambéry.
Chiostro che è adiacente alla Cattedrale di Chambéry.
Peer.Gynt has added a photo to the pool:
The Lavochkin La-5 (Лавочкин Ла-5) was a Soviet fighter aircraft of World War II. It was a development and refinement of the LaGG-3 and was one of the Soviet Air Force's most capable types of warplane.
The La-5's heritage began even before the outbreak of war, with the LaGG-1, a promising yet underpowered aircraft – turning a full circle, for example, took 20 seconds. The LaGG-3 was a modification of that design that attempted to correct this by both lightening the airframe and fitting a more powerful engine. Nevertheless, this was not enough, and the lack of power remained a significant problem.
In early 1942, two of the LaGG-1 and -3's designers, Semyon Lavochkin and Vladimir Gorbunov, attempted to correct this deficiency by experimentally fitting a LaGG-3 with the more powerful Shvetsov ASh-82 radial engine. Since the LaGG-3 was powered by an inline engine, they accomplished this by grafting on the nose section of a Sukhoi Su-2 (which used this engine). By now, the shortcomings of the LaGG-3 had caused Lavochkin to fall out of Joseph Stalin's favour, and factories previously assigned to LaGG-3 construction had been turned over to building the rival Yakovlev Yak-1 and Yak-7. The design work required to adapt the LaGG-3 to the new engine and still maintain the aircraft's balance was undertaken by Lavochkin in a small hut beside an airfield over the winter of 1941-1942, all completely unofficially.
When the prototype took flight in March, the result was extremely pleasing - the fighter finally had a powerplant that allowed it to perform as well in the air as it had been supposed to on paper. After flying, the LaG-5 (the change in name reflecting that one of the original LaGG designers was no longer with the programme), Air Force test pilots declared it superior to the Yak-7, and intensive flight tests began in April. After only a few weeks, the design was modified further, cutting down the rear fuselage to give the pilot better visibility.
By July, Stalin ordered maximum-rate production of the aircraft, now simply known as the La-5 and the conversion of any incomplete LaGG-3 airframes to the new configuration. The prototype was put in mass production almost immediately in factories located in Moscow and in the Yaroslav region. While still inferior to the best German fighters at high altitudes, the La-5 proved to be every bit their match closer to the ground. With most of the air combat over the Eastern Front taking place at altitudes of under 5,000 m (16,404 ft), the La-5 was very much in its element. Its rate of roll was excellent.
Further refinement of the aircraft involved a fuel-injected engine, further lightening of the aircraft, and fixed slats to improve all-round performance. This was designated the La-5FN and would become the definitive version of the aircraft. A full circle turn took 18–19 seconds. Altogether, 9,920 La-5s of all variants were built, including a number of dedicated trainer versions, designated La-5UTI. Several La-5s had three Berezin B-20 cannon installed in the nose capable of a salvo of 3.4 kg/s rounds. Further refinements of the aircraft would lead to the Lavochkin La-7.
A number of La-5s continued in the service of Eastern Bloc nations after the end of the war, including Czechoslovakia.
Flying the La-5
In the summer of 1943, a brand-new La-5 made a forced landing on a German airfield providing the Luftwaffe with an opportunity to test-fly the newest Soviet fighter. Test pilot Hans-Werner Lerche wrote a detailed report of his experience. He particularly noted that the La-5FN excelled at altitudes below 3,000 m (9,843 ft) but suffered from short range and flight time of only 40 minutes at cruise engine power. All of the engine controls (throttle, mixture, propeller pitch, radiator and cowl flaps, and supercharger gearbox) had separate levers which served to distract the pilot during combat to make constant adjustments or risk suboptimal performance. For example, rapid acceleration required moving no less than six levers. In contrast, contemporary German aircraft, especially the BMW 801 radial-engined variants of the Focke-Wulf Fw 190 front line fighter, had largely automatic engine controls with the pilot operating a single lever and electromechanical devices, like the Kommandogerät pioneering engine computer on the radial-engined Fw 190s, making the appropriate adjustments. Due to airflow limitations, the engine boost system (Forsazh) could not be used above 2,000 m (6,562 ft). Stability in all axes was generally good. The authority of the ailerons was deemed exceptional but the rudder was insufficiently powerful at lower speeds. At speeds in excess of 600 km/h (370 mph), the forces on control surfaces became excessive. Horizontal turn time at 1,000 m (3,281 ft) and maximum engine power was 25 seconds.
In comparison with Luftwaffe fighters, the La-5FN was found to have a comparable top speed and acceleration at low altitude. It possessed a higher roll rate and a smaller turn radius than the Bf 109 and a better climb rate than the Fw 190A-8. The Bf 109 utilizing MW 50 had superior performance at all altitudes, and the Fw 190A-8 had better dive performance. Lerche's recommendations were to attempt to draw the La-5FN to higher altitudes, to escape attacks in a dive followed by a high-speed shallow climb, and to avoid prolonged turning engagements.
The La-5 had its defects. Perhaps the most serious being the thermal isolation of the engine, lack of ventilation in the cockpit, and a canopy that was impossible to open at speeds over 350 km/h. To make things worse, exhaust gas often entered in the cockpit due to poor insulation of the engine compartment. Consequently, pilots ignored orders and frequently flew with their canopies open.
In general, Soviet pilots appreciated the La-5 as an effective fighter. "That was an excellent fighter with two cannons and a powerful air-cooled engine", recalled pilot Viktor M. Sinaisky. "The first La-5s from the Tbilisi factory were slightly inferior, while the last ones from the Gorki plant, which came to us from Ivanovo, were perfect. At first we received regular La-5s, but then we got new ones containing the ASh-82FN engine with direct injection of fuel into the cylinders. It was perfect. Everyone was in love with the La-5. it was easy to maintain too." Nevertheless La-5 losses were high, the highest of all fighters in service in USSR, not considering those of the Yak-1. In 1941-45, VVS KA lost 2,591 La-5s, 73 in 1942, 1,460 in 1943, 825 the following year and 233 in 1945.
Crew: one pilot
Length: 8.67 m (28 ft 5.33 in)
Wingspan: 9.80 m (32 ft 1.75 in)
Height: 2.54 m (8 ft 4 in)
Wing area: 17.5 m² (188 ft²)
Empty weight: 2,605 kg (5,743 lb)
Loaded weight: 3,265 kg (7,198 lb)
Max. takeoff weight: 3,402 kg (7,500 lb)
Powerplant: 1 × Shvetsov ASh-82FN radial engine, 1,385 kW (1,850 hp)
Maximum speed: 648 km/h (403 mph)
Range: 765 km (475 miles)
Service ceiling: 11,000 m (36,089 ft)
Rate of climb: 16.7 m/s (3,280 ft/min)
Wing loading: 186 kg/m² (38 lb/ft²)
Power/mass: 0.42 kW/kg (0.26 hp/lb)
2 × 20 mm ShVAK cannons, 200 rpg
2 × bombs up to 100 kg (220 lb) each


Thanks to the optimum thickness and color of the marker, Ozobot will closely follow the lines drawn with this marker. Unleash your imagination and create amazing worlds and playgrounds for your Ozobot.
The colors black, red, green and blue are specifically optimized for Ozobot.
Any kind of white paper can be used to make lines and mazes. Use the markers to draw Ozobot Codes: with the different combinations in black, red, green and blue lines you determine the behavior of Ozobot and let him do cool moves!
What’s in the box
- Black marker
- Red marker
- Blue marker
- Green marker


SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2017
Gates Open at 7:30 a.m.
The first band marches at 9:15 a.m.
Preliminary Competition ends at 5:45 p.m.
Finals Competition is from 8:00 to 10:00 p.m.
Click HERE for complete Competition Schedule
Tickets are $17 for adults and $7 for children 6-12
Tickets may be purchased by clicking here.
Click HERE for a copy of the Director's Handbook
Click HERE for a copy of the TOB area map.
Click HERE to read about the TOB judges.


Studying at Oxford is a potentially stressful experience – with several hundred pages of reading assigned per day and at least one 2,500 word essay due per week. And, if one joins a social or cultural organization outside of class, that is another set of demands…
I haven’t found my time at Oxford in the least stressful, maybe on account of my temperament, the fact I chose not to join any clubs or societies, or simply my selection of tutorials this term.
I bike several miles per day – out of the need to travel several times per day the distance between lecture, class, and St. Catz. Sometimes on weekends, I bike out of the curiosity to see and explore more than I otherwise could on foot. My favorite weekend bike ride is to the nearby medieval village of Wytham and back – about six miles round trip. On the way, I ride by bike over the scenic River Thames and the idyllic barges that dock the riverbank, under the rail trestle of the train to London, and then under the overpass of the M40 highway – finally arriving at the rolling countryside of Oxfordshire and Wytham Woods – the University’s nature preserve.
On other weekends, I take the bus to London, Cambridge, or Canterbury – often spending several hours at a time in the medieval churches of these cities. This weekend, my professor has sent me to the nearby village of Dorchester to examine the medieval church and monastery therein. The ride is 20 miles round-trip by bike – and will hopefully be a scenic journey. For me, being ‘assigned’ to visit a church is not so much an assignment or chore as much as an activity I would do anyway – with or without Oxford.
I’d like to think that frequent exercise lightens the demands of academic work and alleviates stress. With fresh mind and full awareness after a good ride, I can study more effectively and write faster than otherwise possible. Maybe college is all about finding the healthy balance between personal and academic pursuits, work and play. Or, ideally, as I sometimes find: work and play are one and the same at Oxford as the texts I read here are texts I would read anyway, and the writing I do here is writing I would do anyway. I just happen to be at a place that values the kinds of work and activities that I enjoy most.
Life is less stressful when I do what brings me joy – all else be darned.


from Amazing Canopy Zipline Tour at Foxfire Mountain
Our zip line adventure will have you sailing through the forest and over a Lost Mine Falls for 2 hours. Our canopy course has 7 different lines and 2 sky bridges, with several platforms, each with its own unique characteristics. We send you out with 2 of our experienced guides who know your safety is our #1 priority. They will take care of all the braking so there is no need to wear gloves or touch our cables at any point.
After a short tutorial in our barn, you will cross our first sky bridge. From there you will start your zip on our 60-foot line to our vintage treehouse. This line is designed to get you comfortable as you start your journey. The zip lines will increasingly become longer, heightening your sense of security as our guides take you on a scenic tree-top adventure.
Our canopy tour is designed to cultivate your confidence while experiencing the Tennessee Smoky Mountains as you soar through the trees and relish majestic views of the National Park. You will NOT have to hike or climb any towers on this tour. All riders must wear closed-toed shoes, be 8 years old and weigh less than 275 pounds. All safety gear is provided by Foxfire Mountain. Reservations required.


Aloha everyone! I am Adamantios (Adam) Petritsis, a video producer and director. I studied Economics and Econometrics at the University of Nottingham. However it was not for me, therefore i followed a one year filmmaking course at the London Film Academy. That, on the contrary, was perfect for me!
Since then, I’ve been working in the filmmaking industry. Primarily in documentary productions for the Greek National Television and other customers. I took various roles from being a DoP and Editor to Director and Producer. There was a mixture of responsibilities to serve my filmmaker’s true nature. At the same time I’ve also been involved in numerous video and short film productions.
Recently i am engaged in an exciting project about Ancient Greece, which includes short documentaries, interviews and a podcast channel.
Cinema, sports, technology and traveling always catch my attention. Also miniatures modelling is my hobby since i was a kid.
And that’s my brief bio!


KBA Pranburi is very close to the Sam Roi Yot National Park. It’s certainly developing fast, with a new cable park just installed you can still get that board riding practice in.
Other non-kiteboarding activities include sailing, hiking, kayaking, paramotor, golf, trekking, and go-karting.
Pranburi is a little off the beaten track, but it’s well worth taking the time to visit. Escape the crowds and enjoy wide open beaches near to the stunning Sam Roi Yot National Park.
Non kitesurf watersport activities include SUP, sailing, windsurfing, and snorkeling. Kayaks can be hired (at a nearby national park) and diving excursions can be arranged.
You will find a few hidden high-end resorts like the Evason, but there are also plenty of very reasonable guest houses from which you can enjoy the same mountain backdrops, wide open white sandy beaches and beautiful clear water. There’s no better place than Pranburi for hassle-free learning and chilled kiteboarding sessions.
Our courses will take place at Pak Nam Pran beach. This area is perfectly suited to learning to kitesurf due to the topography of the local area, and the consistency and direction of the wind observed along the coastline. This combination of factors allows beginners start easy, shallow learning curve into understanding factors such as where to place the kite in the wind window, but also offers a great opportunity for experienced kiteboarders in honing their skills.
Hi, my name is Manu.
I am a qualified kiteboarding examiner for the IKO and I run the Pranburi KBA training center. I have always been into sports in a big way, and my degree is in physical education.


It’s a fair distance from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to the Scottish Highlands, but the allure of watching some of the best players fighting it out at the Home of Golf proved incentive enough to swap the tropical breeze of Bukit Tunku in KL for the chilly winds of Gleneagles in Scotland during Ryder Cup week in late September 2014.
The Ryder Cup is the third
biggest sporting event in the world (after the FIFA World Cup and the Summer
Olympics) and after watching the passion on the small screen, I took a chance
and submitted my entry for the ballot. Lo and behold, with typical non-golfer’s
luck, I secured the full six-day ticket while my brother, an avid golfer of 20+
years who had always dreamt of attending, wasn’t picked and instead had to
shell out for a package that only covered the final Practice Day and the three
Match Days! The Golfing Gods have a wicked sense of humour indeed…
USA vs Europe: 12 players
from each side compete for a 17-inch trophy made of solid gold.
Multi-millionaire sportsmen, playing their hearts out not for themselves or any
monetary reward, but for team, country, continent and glory. With Team USA
captained by Tom Watson, five-time Open Champion and a living legend of the
game against World No 1 and back-to-back Major winner Rory McIlroy as Team Europe’s
star performer, the stage was set for a memorable contest.
Enough has been written about
the golf on display that week by sports journalists, but being there in person
to witness Martin Kaymer’s chip-in for eagle at the 16th hole to win
his singles match, Rory McIroy’s 45-foot putt on the 17th to save
his foursomes partnership with Sergio Garcia, and possibly “the greatest match
in Ryder Cup history” in which Justin Rose and Henrik Stenson defeated Bubba
Watson and Matt Kuchar in a fourball match that had 21 birdies between them in
16 holes – 12 for the European pair and nine for the Americans, with 10 successive
birdies by the Europeans – made me appreciate that the Ryder Cup really does
bring the best out of the best players in the world. Combined with the
atmosphere, it’s a unique competition that The New York Times described as a
“rare event that usually lives up to the hype.” My brother was simply in awe at
the quality of play – “much better than at a Major,” he quipped.
For me, the real winner was
Scotland. The organisers ensured an experience that showcased food, hospitality
and a well-oiled engine. Some 45,000 spectators each day ate delicious food whose
ingredients were sourced from all over the country – catered by Jamie Oliver’s Fabulous Feasts, no less!
The food was indeed fabulous – far better than the food at the Edinburgh hotel
where I stayed. While waiting to be
served, another spectator asked me where I was from – “Malaysia,” I replied.
“I’m from Greenland!” he said, and then another person chipped in: “Colombia!” None
of our respective countries had players competing, demonstrating the worldwide
appeal of the event. It was televised to an audience of 500 million people in
spectacular. For £10, one could buy an on-course radio with ear phones (that
doubles as a radio off-course, so it is a functional souvenir). With that
device, one could listen to live broadcasts of what was happening in matches
going on around the course. Can’t see over the crowds? Everyone shorter than 5’
8” was given golfing periscopes to see over the throng – and if that wasn’t
enough, 16 big screens (and I mean BIG!) and scoreboards were strategically
placed around the course, Spectator Village (the hub) and Car Park – flip a
switch on your radio and you are immediately tuned into Sky Sports commentary
to accompany the images playing on screen. Just brilliant.
Fancy getting more memorabilia? Once you’ve spent far more than you intended (yes, everyone does – the shop SOLD OUT of Ryder Cup Team shirts that were only released on the DAY the team wears them!), you exit the Official Merchandise Shop to a friendly Fedex representative – “Live Overseas, Ma’am? Let us send that home for you!” If you say yes, they pack everything you bought in a nice box AND submit a pre-prepared VAT form (it’s an extension of the Merchandise Shop Invoice) on your behalf so you can get your goodies TAX-FREE. Shopping and shipping my loot home has never been easier!
To top it all off, even the
weather co-operated – for the whole week! Anyone who has visited Scotland knows
how easily a storm can appear to turn everything very cold, very wet and very grey (perhaps that’s why Scotland
has so many fine whiskeys – there’s not much else to do when you have to stay
indoors and cheer yourself up!) but on a fine day, one understands where the
term “Bonnie Scotland” comes from – the scenery is truly stunning. The Welsh
were grinding their teeth in envy, because when they hosted the Ryder Cup in
2010, the venue was more appropriate for the sport of mud wrestling due to the
Would I attend another
Ryder Cup? Can’t say. But I wanted to experience golf’s ultimate team
competition at the place the sport was born – I was happy I went with keen
golfers who knew their way around a golfing tournament and had played
Gleneagles previously to navigate me to the best vantage points. Would I go
back to Scotland? Absolutely.


I have been involved with youth sport since I was a teenager myself when I used to organise and run table tennis tournaments and coaching clubs in Billingshurst and Southwater. The passion for sport has never faded and as a family we are great believers in the positives that come from being involved with sport.
We therefore do not mind devoting company time and resources to helping out with youth sport locally. Over the years this has taken the form of weekly time off for coaching at local schools, financially supporting local festivals and tournaments and organising events during company and personal time.
Throughout the year we organise;
An introduction to Tag Rugby for School Years 3 and 4 at a local secondary school with GCSE PE students from that school coaching the children and organising matches for them. We generally get 15-20 school teams for this event and around 30-40 young leaders. This is a very popular event as the teachers from the primary schools love that tag rugby is a sport that is equal to both boys and girls at this age group. For the secondary schools it can be hard work because they have to prepare their students a few weeks in advance to ensure that on the day they have the confidence to run drills, lead games and Ref matches. All of this fills the children with confidence and provides them with leadership skills.
A similar number of teams come to our Tag Rugby Tournament for school Years 5 and 6 with the winners going onto represent Guildford in the Surrey County Finals. There is more pressure here
because of the competitive nature of the events so we don’t ask the young leaders to ref, friends from Guildford RFC and Guildfordians RFC do this instead. The Young Leaders act as linesmen, pitch marshals, team mentors, scorers and time keepers which again provides them with an outlet for their leadership skills.
This year we were asked to take over the running of the Surrey County Finals for Active Surrey and we helped to run an excellent event at Surrey Sports Park where 26 schools competed to be crowded county champions for 2016. We completely changed the format to ensure that all teams had equal game time, we introduced a Cup/Plate/Bowl format so that there was more to play for and as with everything we do a Fair Play Award based not only on the children’s actions but the parents and teachers as well.
All of the above this year has been organised and run with support from professional clubs Harlequins and London Welsh (who we sponsor) and Lions Academy who provide professional coaching locally.
These events take a lot of organising and they take up a lot of Meaco time and resource which can be an issue in a small company, but it is something that we are passionate about and we will continue to support.
Outside of work I coach rugby at Guildford RFC and am also Chairman of Wey Valley Swimming Club, more on that later.


Suzuki Violin Lessons
Suzuki Violin Group Classes
Introduction to Music
Introduction to Violin
Parent Education Course
You can register for lessons or group classes by calling 702.806.0991 or CLICK HERE to contact us.
Many performance opportunities are provided such as (but not limited to) the Halloween Awards Recital which is for all students registered in Suzuki Violin Lessons and/or Group, and the Introduction to Violin Course. Another favorite event is the NSA String Festival that is held each spring. Students currently enrolled in Suzuki Violin Lesson are eligible for this adjudicated performance. Please check the calendar of events to see all of the upcoming performances
Private Lessons and group classes are held at my home studio in the Northwest part of Las Vegas near Alexander and Durango. Recitals are typically held at Family Music West on West Sahara and the NSA String Festival is held at their school on 5th Street in downtown Las Vegas.


Front Porch Farm
We love the way flowers lend themselves to creating art. The arch of a foxglove stem, the rambling of a sweet pea vine… each flower offers a natural gesture of grace. Our bouquets are wild and romantic, uncontrived and unrestrained. Each arrangement created on our farm displays our flowers’ natural beauty and haphazard perfection, while they celebrate the ephemeral nature of the moment in which they were created.
Whether you are seeking full event design services or a bucket of bulk blooms, we can provide you with seasonal, fresh, top quality flowers.
LET THE SEASON GUIDE YOU
Growing over 60 varieties, it’s hard to pick favorites, but we do have a few. In the spring: ranunculus, poppies, daffodils and sweet peas, the summer: our fields of dahlias, tuberose and lisianthus and fall: the heirloom chrysanthemums and marigolds before we put the fields to bed for the winter.
Browse by seasonal flowers here.


Day Hunts and Outfitters Texas Hunting Leases
In Texas, there are literally hundreds of opportunities to hunt all over the state for a wealth of game. Whether you are looking for an Axis hunt or some other type of exotic there is a place for you. In this section, you will be able to find day hunts, package hunts, and outfitters. Search for self-guided, semi-guided, and fully guided hunts all over Texas for Exotics, Whitetail deer, hogs, dove, quail, ducks, geese, and more... If you are more interested in a traditional annual or seasonal hunting lease, then check out the "Seasonal and Annual hunting leases" page.


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The Martial Art of Strength Training, Vol 1
Martial artists have long been admired for their speed, power, and body control. Watch your fighting ability skyrocket as a Full Contact Champion reveals, step-by-step, the most important strength training techniques for martial artists. Never before has such a thorough strength training program been available for combat athletes or those interested in some of the best kept training secrets in the world.
Steve Cotter's DVD Full KOntact kettlebells is a tremendous asset to anyone wishing to greatly enhance their performance in their chosen sport, activity or physical conditioning. I highly recommend it.
John Brookfield, Author of Mastery of Hand Strength, Multiple World Record Holder
I received the DVD a few days ago, right in the middle of finals week. I had a lot to study, but after watching the incredible intro to the video, I could not stop watching.
Steve does an incredible job of explaining a martial arts principle, rooting, and then reinforcing it with kettlebell exercises. The techniques in here are very powerful!
Tyler Hass, RKC, Power Athletes Magazine, Pullman, WA
Steve, I'm about 15 minutes into your DVD and just wanted to congratulate you on your great work. The explanations are thorough, logical, and you've done a great job in explaining the martial arts carryover from KB training.
I'll send you a note when I've completed the DVD but so far I'm super impressed!
Charles Staley, Staley Training Systems, Las Vegas, NV
Steve Cotter's DVD is Outstanding!
I finally had a chance to watch Steve's DVD and I am really impressed. The quality is top notch (no camcorder in someone's basement). Steve's DVD begins with a real cool music video that shows Steve displaying some incredible feats of strength and conditioning.
Steve speaks very well on the DVD and is clear and concise at all times(no umms, uhhs, etc). It is apparent that Steve knows a great deal regarding the subject matter that he is covering and that he put a lot of energy and time into the content of the DVD.
Steve makes many of the exercises that he covers look easy. However, when you try some of them, you will be amazed at how difficult some of them are. Fortunately, Steve shows you clearly how to work up to the exercises and what you need to focus on for proper execution.
I really like the rack weaving and shuffles and can definitely see how they will be beneficial to any athlete.
I like the one-legged deadlifts with kicks as well. very cool drill that will carry over to the martial arts.
The real sign that Steve's DVD is great is that when it is over, you cannot wait to see Steve's next DVD.
Finally, every exercise on Steve's DVD has a purpose. No fluff or wasted space. Steve maximizes every minute.
If you are a martial artist, then you have to get this DVD. If you are a serious athlete or simply a kettlebell fan that wants to take his or her game up a notch, then you will love this DVD.
Great job Steve!
Mike Mahler, Strength Coach, Los Angeles, CA
I really liked your DVD. It was light years ahead of everyone in your market. You've set the bar very high for the other RKC trainers.
The presentation was awesome. You did the right thing waiting until you were assured that you would be selling a first rate product. IMO it was better than Steve Maxwell's video and more organized. I'm not putting down Steve's great video, just comparing a similar product.
The content is great. If I had not started Hsing-i training I may have not understood some of your concepts. Great video.
Ellis Jones, San Diego, CA
I received your video on Monday. Very well done. I like that you explained the "why and how it works" and behind the drills, rather than just, "do this b/c it works". The progression from BW drills, to drills with racked KBs to drills with KBs overhead (extreme compromise) was nice, and gives people a way to progress and refine. The setting was nice as well. The plants in the background were a nice touch (was that planned, or were they just there?) and makes the video warmer, rather than just a room with white walls. As someone mentioned on Dragon Door, everything is presented in a relaxed and confident manner. There is no fumbling with words or any uhs and ahs. You present yourself in a way that makes the viewer feel that you know what you're doing. Great job. The quality of the DVD itself is excellent, from the menu to the quality of the picture. The DVD label and the box are also very well done and look very professional.
Things that I personally got out of it: re-enforcement of the usefulness of rack and overhead holds and walks. I need to do more of those.
I think you did a great job, and I'm sure a lot of people will be surprised to hear this is your first video.
By the way, the intro was spectacular. Show off. Can't wait for Volume 2!!!
Thanks, and great job,
Eric Tiarks, Omaha, NE
I just received your DVD and will listen to it in great detail when my boys aren't vying for attention. What I've seen so far was very professional, clearly explained & shot, which is trickier to accomplish than it would seem. Conveying information with clarity is an invisible (or at least under appreciated) skill. It was exciting to see you include some excellent Hsing-I at the intro, and even a taste of Bagua! I would imagine that for many of the DD gang, this will be their first exposure to internal art done with genuine martial intent.
Barry Crain, Chicago, IL
Full KOntact KB is an excellent DVD, showcasing Steve Cotter's ability to apply martial arts thinking to strength training and showing clear progression in KB drills that anyone, regardless of MA style or fitness level will find useful.
I just received my DVD and want to tell you how awesome it is! I really appreciate the way you explain the principles and combine the strength and conditioning of the KB with martial drills. The exercises you demonstrate will make any serious practitioner a powerful martial artist. Your teaching style is very clear and informative. You are a true inspiration!! Thank you for making such a quality product. I'm really looking forward to your next one!
Susan R, Kapaa, HI
Get Steve Cotter's video!
It is a superb exposition on strength training, specifically designed with Xingyi (his art) in mind. It is a great conditioning video, but it has the added advantage of having some great excerpts of Steve in motion — something you have to see to really appreciate. By all means, use this resource. Aloha!
Makena White, Honolulu, HI
I just finished watching Vol. 1 of Full KOntact Kettlebells and I can't recommend it enough. The video is very high quality and full of great drills that any martial artist will find invaluable.
Bill Ripley — Watkinsville, Georgia
Watched Full KOntact last night for the first time. This DVD is awesome. Steve Cotter has created a highly-energized, highly scientific training DVD. I have been using KB's for a little over a year. I also train Police and Fire recruits with KB's and am a beginning martial artist. This DVD goes a long way in providing some very high-level training ideas.
Steve A. MS, H/FD, CSCS
Steve Cotter's Root DVD is awesome!
Steve's DVD is excellent material with fairly high production quality.
For anyone interested in primal movement, the basis of athletic development, and truly working your body as a unit — Steve's DVD is perfect. He goes over many drills and the theory behind the drills as well. I would add this to the must have library: it is applicable to almost any sport, pattern of movement, and overall coordination.
Many of the basic principles of rooting into the ground for increased power are those which are most quickly forgotten. Steve brings them back up as an interest with fresh drills and insight into why they are so important.
Of course, Steve demonstrates everything perfectly and the demo section is enough to make one jealous — particularly the jump-switch splits between the swiss balls. For those who haven't seen it: he has two half swiss balls which he balances on in a suspended front split. He then jumps in the air from that position, switches legs, and lands in another front split. Quite impressive.
Chris Muscarella, Annapolis, MD
It's a great video...
It's a great video, every drill was one that was clearly applicable and easy to integrate into training... that's what has me eager to get the others as soon as you release them... April is too long to wait, though!
I finished watching Steven Cotters DVD, Full KOntact KettleBells Vol. 1, last night for the 3rd time.
I'd have to say Steve's DVD is breath of fresh air when it comes to Martial Arts related fitness videos or DVDs. Absolutely no mysticism, BS, or outlandish claims.
The Full KOntact KB DVD is a reflection of the man who put it together, direct and to the point. No complicated routines or rehashing of old tired ideas. Steve doesn't try to fluff up his presentation with any worthless exercises, he gets down to business with a handful of useful KB exercises. Steve doesn't just show you how to use KBs to build strength and power for MA, but more importantly to use them to build strength and power for those times you're not in an advantageous position.
If you are interested in MA or KBs, I'd recommend you buy Steve's DVD.
The swing as Systema....
on Vlad's tape "strikes" he shows a "chest punch". The hip snap generated by Cotter's 2.5 pood 2 handed swing is basically a hip punch — the martial applications of the movements demonstrated can't be questioned.
It was great to hear your clear and concise explanation on the DVD. It was great to see that your video catered to those of us who enjoy the martial arts.
I enjoyed your DVD very much. I watched it for the second time last night. The concepts make a lot of sense and I enjoyed your explanations. Your body positioning discussions are very good and make sense. Additionally, as a martial artist, I am trying out the shuffling and weaving and will work on the Dragon weaving next. I had an acl reconstruction last year so I am going to work into that slowly. I am looking forward to the next DVDs in your series.
May I be so bold to suggest that you may want to put out your own IMA videos. It is clear that your understanding of body mechanics is superior and your own conditioning is very enviable. Watching the trailer was quite visually appealing. There may be a market for someone with your ability to clearly impart concepts to bring the concepts of the internal Chinese arts to the public. I know I would welcome them in order to understand arts I do not practice. Looking forward to your seminar.
Jim Tirey, Martial Artist, MD
For anyone who has Steve Cotter's Full KOntact Kettlebell DVD —
I got my copy yesterday and was wondering if anyone else who has seen it had to pick their jaw up off the ground when he was doing the jump splits between the half balance balls? Or how about the pistols holding two kettlebells in each hand "waiter press" fashion? I was really impressed with Steve at the last RKC Cert. and after watching his DVD I was just blown away.
This is a must have for any martial artist who's serious about their training. I can hardly wait for volume two.
Great job Steve!
Mike Johnson, RKC
Steve, finally saw it this week, SHUGYO!
Great production quality, even better content. I've been playing with movement drills for awhile, but now I have some new stuff to work on. I just got done designing my program for the next 6 weeks and I had to throw some of your stuff in there. Truly a great DVD, from a great Sifu.
Dylan Thomas, Virginia
The opening sequence of "Full KOntact KBs — The Martial Art of Strength Training"... is one of the most excellent pieces of film I've ever seen!
After only a quick viewing of the instructional portions, they seem extraordinary as well. I've not yet had an opportunity to review those parts with the concentration of a lesson-setting that I do plan to devote ASAP, but I'm really looking forward to absorbing the teaching.
For the past week, each morning, my twin 3.5 year old sons, before requesting any children's programs, have been demanding, "Daddy, we want to watch your friend, Steve Cotter, with the kettlebells". I've played and watched the opening sequence with them about 15 times. (To the point where I anticipate the small puff of dirt Steve kicks up as his foot sweeps along the ground in the slow circular walking portion at the beginning, as the music starts to play and the rays of sunshine beam down — wow, great production.) The kids and I wish that opening sequence was at least 30 minutes long. It's amazing! Side effect of these viewings is that the outstanding (I believe original, yes?) music has been bouncing around the inside of my head all week. Bravo, Steve!
"Root" is excellent. Sign me up for Vols. II & III.
Comrades, the Steve Cotter DVDs should be a mandatory holding of every Party member's viewing library.
Edward Friedman, Long Island, NY
I got your DVD which is great. I was very impressed with the content and the production. It is so rare to find someone that comes up with something new and your concept of training in a "position of vulnerability" is definitely a must for any martial artist. I look forward to volume 2!
George Hynec, Australia
I went to one Mr. Cotter's Classes in San Diego and I was taken aback by the depth of knowledge and practical applications he bestowed. A few of us got together and viewed the DVD that we purchased and were pleasantly surprised by the realistic information and manner in which it was presented. He is exceptionally well versed in the Martial Arts and how to augment your prowess with the addition of Kettle Bell strength training. Thank you!
J. E. F., Phoenix, AZ
Section 1: Basic Mobility Drills
Section 2: Kettlebell Basics: Movement within Stillness
Section 3: Kettlebell Basics: Lateral Weaving and Shuffling
Section 4: Dragon Twisting — Low Basin Power
Section 5: Dynamic Balance
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Walt Disney World® Golf
For guests staying at our resort, Walt Disney World® Golf extends the following:
- Advance tee times (90 days) on all 4 Walt Disney World® Golf Courses
- Rental equipment TaylorMades clubs and 2 sleeves of TaylorMade golf balls for only $50 per person. (Junior rental equipment is free).
- Pre-round range balls included
Disney's Magnolia Golf Course
Named for its majestic magnolia trees, this course features elevated tees, spacious greens and challenging water hazards. Wide fairways invite you to hit the ball and hit it long, but beware—11 of the 18 holes boast water hazards and 97 bunkers dot the landscape.
Disney's Palm Golf Course
This 18-hole championship course features shimmering lakes, tropical sands, palm trees and sloping greens. Disney’s Palm Golf Course is rated 4 stars by Golf Digest and includes 9 holes with water hazards and 59 bunkers—providing plenty of challenges for novices and seasoned pros alike.
Disney's Lake Buena Vista Golf Course
Certified by Audubon International as a Cooperative Wildlife Sanctuary and rated an impressive 4 stars by Golf Digest, the 18-hole course was conceived by Joe Lee and most notably features elevated bunkered greens that put a premium on accurate approach shots. Test your skills and fortitude at the demanding 7th hole with its challenging island green.
Disney's Oak Trail Golf Course
Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course is a beautiful 9-hole course with rolling greens and exciting challenges. Certified by Audubon International as a Cooperative Wildlife Sanctuary, Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course lets you test your skills with holes ranging from 132 to 517 yards from the white tees; holes 5, 6 and 7 are routed around a deep canal and a picturesque pond. Operated by Arnold Palmer Golf Management and featuring junior tees for younger golfers, this walking course is fun for the whole family.
FootGolf at Disney's Oak Trail Golf Course
Have some extra time after hanging in the parks? Try FootGolf, the new phenomenon featuring the two popular sports of Soccer and Golf! The new sport is now available at Disney's Oak Trail Golf Course and is fun for the whole family, try it out during your next stay with us! FootGolf is available 4 days a week after 2:30 PM, subject to availability.
Awards and Accolades
- Outstanding Golf and Meeting Award presented by Successful Meetings
- Named "Top 50 Great Service Facilities" by Golf Digest
- Professional championship courses for PGA TOUR events
- All 4 Championship courses certified by Audubon International as Cooperative Wildlife Sanctuaries
- Gold Medal Resort – Golf Magazine
- America's Top 75 Resorts – Golf Digest
- Every course rated 4 – 4 ½ stars (out of 5) – Golf Digest


Green Eggs & Ham Original Art
Most of Jason's work is done digitally which allows him to work more quickly, but it also means that physical originals are extremely rare. This is your chance to own not one, but TWO of his original paintings!
This whimsical pair is from the Best Friends Forever series, an exhibition that explores relationships and how sometimes, joining forces can make something greater than the sum of its parts.
Acrylic on 4″ x 4″ canvas. When you purchase this set, you get both hand-painted original canvases as well as two adjustable miniature display easels. Perfect for turning any desktop, ledge, bookshelf, or medicine cabinet into a mini art gallery!


Starring: Myles Pollard, Xavier Samuel, Som Worthington
Running Time: 109 minutes
Director: Morgan O'Neil, Ben Nott
In 1970s Margaret River, Andy Kelly and his surf prodigy younger brother, Jimmy, launch their own backyard surf gear business. Encouraged by their new friends, surf filmmaker JB and his beautiful Hawaiian companion, Lani, the brothers start to look for ways to expand, but when they get mixed up with a local drug dealer, it looks like everything they've built up will come crashing down around them.


All my life I have wanted to be outside. Wild places and wildlife fascinate me and bring me joy. Photographing the treasures I have found has given me wonderful stories to tell and memories to cherish. Through my photography, I invite you to share my curiosity and delight in the world outside.
My special interest is learning about and photographing wild, native butterflies. But everywhere I go, I find a variety of other wonderful creatures to add to my collection of treasures. I hope you will enjoy spending some time viewing the images I have saved in these galleries. Please contact me for questions or comments!


The holiday season is synonymous with joy, warmth, and the sweet aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through the air. Whether it’s Christmas, Thanksgiving, or a cozy winter evening, indulging in a holiday baking extravaganza is a delightful way to celebrate. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of festive treats that will leave your kitchen filled with the spirit of the season.
1. Classic Gingerbread Cookies: A Winter Wonderland Favorite
Kickstart your holiday baking with the timeless charm of classic gingerbread cookies. The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses creates a heavenly aroma that instantly transports you to a winter wonderland. Use festive cookie cutters to shape the dough into holiday-themed figures and let the kids join in on the fun of decorating with icing and sprinkles.
2. Peppermint Bark: A Refreshing Twist
Add a refreshing twist to your holiday treats with homemade peppermint bark. Layered with smooth dark and white chocolate and topped with crushed candy canes, this easy-to-make confection is a crowd-pleaser. Break it into irregular pieces for a rustic look, and package it in decorative bags for charming edible gifts.
3. Spiced Eggnog Cupcakes: A Taste of Christmas Cheer
Capture the essence of Christmas in a cupcake with spiced eggnog cupcakes. Infused with nutmeg, cinnamon, and a hint of rum, these cupcakes bring the rich and creamy flavor of eggnog to life. Top them with a swirl of eggnog-flavored frosting and a sprinkle of nutmeg for a festive finish.
4. Cranberry Orange Scones: A Touch of Elegance
For a touch of elegance in your holiday spread, consider baking cranberry orange scones. The tartness of cranberries complements the citrusy burst of orange zest, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Serve them warm with clotted cream or orange marmalade for a delightful addition to your brunch or tea time.
5. Pecan Pie Bars: Thanksgiving in Every Bite
Bring the essence of Thanksgiving to your holiday baking with pecan pie bars. These bars encapsulate the rich, caramelized goodness of pecan pie in a portable and shareable form. The buttery shortbread crust enhances the nutty flavor, making them a delectable treat for festive gatherings.
6. Mocha Peppermint Brownies: A Decadent Delight
Indulge your sweet tooth with the decadent combination of chocolate, coffee, and peppermint in mocha peppermint brownies. The richness of dark chocolate and the kick of espresso blend harmoniously with the coolness of peppermint, creating a truly irresistible holiday treat. Cut them into squares and dust with cocoa for a finishing touch.
7. Festive Sugar Cookies: A Canvas for Creativity
Unleash your creativity with festive sugar cookies that serve as a canvas for edible art. Decorate them with royal icing in vibrant colors and intricate designs, turning each cookie into a miniature work of art. These cookies are perfect for gifting and can be customized to match any holiday theme.
8. Cinnamon Roll Wreath: A Showstopper Centerpiece
Elevate your holiday table with a showstopping cinnamon roll wreath. The soft, pillowy rolls are swirled with cinnamon and brown sugar, baked to perfection, and then arranged in a wreath shape. Drizzle with cream cheese icing for a stunning centerpiece that is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
9. Seasonal Fruit Galette: A Rustic Yet Refined Dessert
Embrace the bounty of the season with a rustic yet refined seasonal fruit galette. Fill a buttery, flaky crust with a medley of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, or berries, and fold the edges for a charmingly imperfect finish. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting and sophisticated dessert.
Embark on a holiday baking extravaganza with these festive treats that cater to every season. Whether you’re drawn to the comforting spices of winter or the fresh flavors of summer, these recipes promise to add a touch of sweetness and joy to your celebrations. Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and let the holiday baking magic begin!


The Conservative Women's Organisation are very pleased to announce:
2020 Race Night will be held on the 1st of February 2020.
The entrance fee will be £10-a-head with a two-course meal of cottage pie and apple crumble included in the price.
Doors will be open at 7pm and a raffle will be available on the night.
Please get in touch with Caroline on 01326 562056 for more information, or to book your place!


Some of you may know Mavericks as an epic, local surf spot off the stunning California coastline. Mavericks is a place of dangerous swells - the most beautiful and daunting waves imaginable. Here you’ll stumble on brave souls, paddling out into unknown territory, ready to tackle the ominous waves breaking on the shore.
So, why Mavericks?
The Hohman family hails from Southern California- a place brimming with energy and lively with Mexican culture. We are no strangers to shredding the waves, burning late-night beach bonfires, chowing down on fresh fish tacos, hopping the border to Mexico for a surf trip, and donning the sunburnt, smiling faces that are a signature Southern California trait.
To us, Mavericks is not just a surf spot. Being a Maverick means being an independent individual. A Maverick is someone who is unique, prepared to take a risk, and ready for adventure. It means being one of the few who are willing to venture into unknown waters for the exhilaration of that one wave.
We are all Mavericks, in a sense. Mavericks is the risk we took to bring our culture, food, and good vibes to you.
Are you ready for the wave of a lifetime? Are you a Maverick?
Come find out with us! Raise your margarita, hang loose and stay salty, my friends!


The Farmers Club provides the services of a private members club to the farming community, offering affordable accommodation along with fine dining facilities, bar and meeting rooms in the heart of London, backed by a vibrant programme to stimulate debate and provide a great social focus.
The Club has always provided a great environment for informal discussion and debate and aims to stimulate such debate more formally. In 1841 the Club’s creator, Mr Shaw of the Strand, envisaged a Club that would debate and discuss the farming issues of the day and disseminate such information to its membership and beyond. That goal is as relevant today as ever. But The Club also jealously guards its apolitical stance, and does not lobby.
Above all the Club makes members welcome, and ensures they feel comfortable, relaxed and safe – a true home-from-home experience.


But tonight, I find myself with a glass of wine and an empty house (save the husband and animals, who are all curled up on the couch in the other room) since my friends have gone home and I figure it's time to share a bit. I've been sharing my experiences with the other gals who make up the current BIG Tribe, so I'm going to share the same experiences with all of you now. This is going to be long and very emotional, fair warning. Some bits have been copied and pasted from my original postings on the BIG forums, so they may read a little oddly.
For background, the first week of BIG was spent scribbling, doodling and generally getting into the groove of letting our intuitions guide our brushes, to let go of over inflated expectations and to get comfortable with the process. We also became familiar with our fear gremlins, those little voices inside of us that tell us something is ugly, or stupid, to give up or not to share this and that - the voice that stifles as it attempts to protect us. Now, what I'm going to share is my painting and process for week 2. Connie, our fearless leader, asked that we work with Memory in our first real, honest and fearless BIG painting. To just pick a memory, the first one that comes to mind or the one that keeps reappearing and popping in to say hello!
I watched the intro and the first video, popped over to the first discussion and read through it. My paper was out and ready to go and I closde my eyes, let my mind go and waited to see what the first memory that comes across my mind is because that, THAT is the one I'm going to paint...
And my mind goes blank. There are memories there in the depths of my mind, oh are there ever. Big bright shiny ones and deep dark terrifying ones but none jump forth and say 'paint me!' So I wait some more. Then I distract myself with some music, who knows? Maybe in setting up this small ritual I've scared them off, over thought them without even realizing it. Hours go by and nothing. I wait to hear something... yet nothing comes.
There are the obvious ones I could go for, like getting married, buying a house - you know, big life things. But when I think about using them for the project I get this feeling in my gut that says, nah. Not this one. Keep waiting.
When I decided to undertake this adventure, it was partially in order to break down my difficulty in not overthinking things, to learn how to trust and to let go of total control and expectations of the finished product. While I'm not consciously aware of doing any of these things while waiting for my memory to come, I wonder if they aren't hindering me somehow just the same. I continued to wait and sat down at the desk in my studio, opened youtube and this song was in my recommended que (not sure why - I suppose the Universe needed me to hear it.)
My guts churned, I cried. I knew what I needed to paint.
I'll admit, I was (and still am) a bit scared to share my memory painting. Opening myself up wide and laying my innards bare and raw for people I've 'just met' to see isn't something I do, ever. (Hell, sharing this level of myself with people I know well is rare.) So, I'm taking a fearless leap here, one of faith and of trust and I'm going to share the process and the memory here - to let it and myself be seen.
I was caught up in choosing a memory, but it was given to be by the universe in a song and a rush of clenched guts and tears. I know that it was said that we didn't need to dive into a deep, dark, heavy memory as we get our toes wet in the water of fearless painting... but that's what my guts, my soul, the gods above brought forth from the depths for me to work with. And I did.
The memory dredged up wasn't a one time event, but rather a period in time. In my late teens, my small world shattered around me. I was in an abusive relationship, my parents were divorcing and kept putting me in the middle of their spats as referee and bargaining chip, my younger siblings clung to me for love and stability. I fell into an incredibly dark and desperate place, barely clinging to any real will to continue to exist... I began to self hurt. Or cut myself, in more blunt terms. Over the course of those few years, I covered myself with hundreds of marks, always hidden by clothing as they bled and subsequently healed. 8 years after the last time, I still have 22 very visible scars just on my forearms and wrists, which people seem to be drawn to ask about. When they do, I become uncomfortable and nervous, worried they'll judge me for something that is long past. Terrified they'll look at me as 'one of those crazy people'. I decided to follow my gut and paint this time period in order to attempt to lay to rest those feelings and make peace with my past.
I put the song back on as I chose my colors; grey, grey-blue, blue, red. I let the tears fall as I sketched the shape on the paper. Hunched, cross armed, trying to maintain a small shape in the large space.
I poured her a glass of wine and we cried together. I held her close and told her it would be OK. To trust me and our gut. She hid behind me as I began to fling blue onto the background. Grabbing red next, I slathered it over the blue. As I painted, I wanted to get physical with the process, so I tossed my brush aside and went at it with my hands and fingers - mushing red into blue, creating bruised purples. (In retrospect, I think my sub-conscious was putting the colors of my hurts onto the paper, as I was always badly bruised around the cuts afterwards.) Barely stopping, I grabbed the gray and began to fill in the body - as I covered the heart, my gremlin sighed in relief. It was safe, hidden - protected. As it should be.
Dipping my fingers in red, I cut at the wrist and the chest, swooped outlines around the figure in vibrant blood tones. Looking at the wrist I felt revulsion and tried to cover it back up with gray, resulting in a pink mess. My gremlin was upset but my gut said to put the red back and taking a deep breath, I listened.
And now, my guts tell me to get up and paint. I've got a lot of work to do. I grab a dark brown and add in hair, straight and stringy, falling forward to obscure some of the face; yet another safety mechanism that I only recognize in retrospect. Taking out the black, I give her big, bold outlines. My gremlin pops up again - 'That's not your style!! That's not how you paint!! She's cartoony, ugly!' I shush her again, after all, this isn't my typical subject matter nor is it a particularly pretty memory. I keep on, this part of me, this woman on the paper - she wants to be seen. She NEEDS to be seen. And big bold lines catapult her into view, where she cannot be ignored or pushed aside.
Stepping back a moment, I don't want to cry - for the first time since starting this. I don't feel lost, miserable, ashamed when I look at her though there is still some melancholy there. A sort of heavy eerie feeling down in my bowels. My gut chimes in, since my goblin has washed her hands of this - I'm not listening to her anyway - informing me to paint white circles in the background. I get to work, filling half the background with them before my gut says 'stop!' Step away and stop. And I do. I clean up my brushes and leave her, knowing somehow that she's not quite done with me yet.
I let her sit on the easel in the studio for a day and a half. Friday, when I was on my lunch break journaling about this painting (she's taken up 10 pages in my composition book so far) I realized I was excited to see her. To get home and ask her what she needed, to work with her. The 4 hours of work were the slowest I can recall in recent history, not work volume wise, but to my rapidly spinning mind and needy heart.
When I bounded into the studio and grabbed my palette, my heart shouted 'Grab the red and the the yellow! And your favorite color blue! Oh, and white too!' And I did. Adding deeper hues of shadow to her, giving her more definition and somehow, despite blue being very melancholy - brightening her up a bit. I scribbled yellows and whites around her side, a sort of aura of hopeful energy - a sign that there was still so much life in her. A will to continue, to live. And then, my gut and heart whispered the most important part conspiratorially to me, quietly, so as not to wake and anger the sleeping gremlin. The finishing touch, the final lesson that she has to hand me:
To live, to let my heart beat fierce and free. That time is over with and not only did I live, I thrived despite all the anguish and pain. I pulled myself out of that darkness and rose like a phoenix into a new life, in which I wanted to let love back in to my heart. And how can you do that, if you lock it away?
This process, this painting, helped me in ways I can't even quite express right now because I am still absorbing it all. I plan to pin her to my wall for a while, to let her lessons sink in further, to have her help in overcoming the last remnants of shame I feel over my past like a great guardian angel birthed from a black seed in myself. My gremlin is pursing her lips at me for sharing all of this, worrying how this will be judged and for right now, I'm ignoring her and feeling so very, very free.
This journey, this adventure, has been bigger for me than I ever expected. I'm not learning new techniques, not fussing over the outcomes. Just letting the the process take me where it will... and it is an exhausting, magical, spiritual, beautiful process.
Comments from my fellow fearless painters, whose support and love I will cherish always.
Comment by Connie Hozvicka on July 16, 2012 at 3:04pm
First, I have to whole heartedly--with every drip of my Soul--acknowledge the incredible courage and bravery and pure genuine FEARLESSness it took to share so openly from your heart. I feel so honored and humbled to experience your process aside you. Thank you for letting me in--letting us all in. I feel healed on some level of my own life as well by traveling through this with you.
She is beautiful. You are beautiful. Your story of rising above so much darkness in your life is beautiful.
Wonder how much a ticket to South Carolina would run me?! I'd love to wrap my arms around ya in a BIG hug!
Sending you so much LOVE!
Comment by Michelle Turbide on July 13, 2012 at 5:53pm
I can't even speak I am so blown away by your courage not only to explore this memory for yourself but to be so open and honest in sharing it with all of us. Thank you so much for letting us know you in this way. I feel blessed to be a part of your process.
Comment by Colleen McCarthy on July 13, 2012 at 3:53pm
Thank you for being so courageous and sharing your story. And especially for ignoring that gremlin - Lovelovelove you!
Comment by Sharon Bode on July 13, 2012 at 1:02pm
...right now, you are very much loved. Thank you...for sharing your pain, your tears and...your heart.


Embarking on a journey into the realm of coding can be both exhilarating and daunting for beginners. Whether you’re drawn to the allure of creating websites, developing apps, or diving into the depths of data science, learning to code opens up a world of possibilities. However, with the vast array of programming languages, frameworks, and resources available, getting started can feel overwhelming.
Fear not! This comprehensive beginner’s guide is your roadmap to navigating the exciting landscape of coding. We’ll walk you through essential steps, provide curated resources, and offer invaluable tips to kick start your coding journey effectively.
First and foremost, let’s debunk a common myth: you don’t need a background in computer science or advanced mathematics to learn how to code. While these skills can be beneficial, all you truly need is a passion for problem-solving and a willingness to learn.
Throughout this guide, we’ll discuss various programming languages, explore foundational concepts, and introduce you to essential tools and resources. By the end, you’ll have the confidence and knowledge to embark on your coding journey with enthusiasm and determination.
Coding for Beginners
Welcome to the ultimate coding guide for beginners! Whether you’re curious about dipping your toes into the vast world of programming or ready to dive in headfirst, this guide is your go-to resource for embarking on your journey.
It’s like learning a new language, but instead of communicating with people, you’re communicating with machines. With coding, you have the power to create websites, mobile apps, games, and much more.
To start your adventure, the first step is to choose a programming language. Python is an excellent choice for beginners because of its simplicity and readability. Once you’ve selected a language, immerse yourself in learning its syntax, basic concepts, and problem-solving techniques.
Next, familiarize yourself with essential tools and resources. Integrated development environments (IDEs) like Visual Studio Code and online platforms like Codecademy provide interactive learning experiences and practice exercises to hone your skills.
Remember, it is not just about writing lines of code; it’s about solving problems and building solutions. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and ask for help from online communities like Stack Overflow and GitHub.
With dedication, patience, and a thirst for knowledge, you’ll soon find yourself confidently navigating the exciting world. Let’s embark on this exhilarating journey together!
For the beginner programmer, navigating the vast array of coding resources can feel like embarking on a treasure hunt. Fear not! We’ve curated a selection of invaluable resources to kick start your coding journey.
Online platforms like Codecademy and Coursera offer interactive courses tailored specifically for beginners, covering a wide range of programming languages and concepts. Additionally, websites like freeCodeCamp provide free coding tutorials, projects, and a supportive community to help you learn and grow.
Don’t forget to leverage online forums like Reddit’s r/learn programming and Discord communities, where you can seek guidance, ask questions, and connect with fellow beginner programmers on your learning journey. With these resources at your disposal, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on your coding adventure with confidence.
In conclusion, embarking on a journey into the world of coding as a beginner programmer is an exciting and rewarding endeavor. While the prospect of learning a new skill may seem daunting at first, with dedication, persistence, and the right resources, you can overcome any challenge that comes your way.
Throughout this guide, we’ve explored essential steps to kick start your coding journey effectively. From selecting a programming language to familiarizing yourself with foundational concepts and utilizing valuable resources, you’ve gained the tools and knowledge necessary to begin your coding adventure confidently.
Remember, coding is not about writing lines of code; it’s about problem-solving and creativity. Embrace mistakes as learning opportunities, seek guidance from online communities, and celebrate your progress along the way.
As you dive deeper into the world of coding, you’ll discover endless possibilities for creating, innovating, and making a positive impact. Whether you aspire to develop websites, mobile apps, games, or into data science, the journey ahead is yours to shape.
So, take that first step, engage yourself in learning, and embrace the challenges and victories that come with being a beginner programmer. With passion, perseverance, and a growth mindset, there’s no limit to what you can achieve in the fascinating realm of coding.
Cheers to your coding journey and the exciting adventures that await!


Iridium GO! Vehicle Antenna Kit
Whether you are an avid RV user or off-road adventurer, you can now stay connected to family and friends on your journey through the Iridium GO! Vehicular Kit.
The Iridium GO! Vehicular Kit allows users to stay connected on the move with a simple and versatile set of accessories, ideal for primary communication and in situations when cellular coverage is weak or unavailable. Pairing the Iridium GO! with the vehicular kit enables reliable connectivity for anyone travelling in and out of areas with little or no terrestrial coverage.
The Iridium GO! Vehicular Kit is an ideal solution for park rangers and lone workers who need to send work status updates to their teams. Now humanitarian workers have the flexibility to stay connected no matter where work takes them. They can make phone calls, send emails, and share location, all while traversing from one site to another without missing a beat. The ease of activating emergency services makes the kit invaluable for on-the move operations. The kit is also convenient for dispersed NGO teams to stay in touch in remote locations and provide mission updates to each other in a quick and efficient manner.
What's in the Box
- Iridium Magnetic Mount Antenna with 5m cable and TNC-M Connector
- RAM Suction Mounting Kit with Threaded Adapter
- Iridium GO! Wall Bracket Kit
- Iridium GO! Cable Adapter
- RAM Round Plate with Ball (2.5” Diameter)
- 1 x RAM-B-202U
- 2 x M4X16 Screws
- 2 x M4 Nut hex nylon
- Cable Ties
- User Installation Guide
- Ideal for primary and complementary communication
- Easy Installation
- 1-Year Limited Warranty
- Certified Passive Iridium Antenna for use with the Iridium GO!