There are very few feelings that can beat the moment when you finally have access to the game that you have been wanting to play for months. The thing about games on any platform is that they are usually announced many months in advance. Similar to movies, they will release trailers and footage for these games to show you what it is all about. Then the hype begins to build, and you are almost counting down to the release date for the game. But what happens if you do not have the money to buy it when it comes out?
There are a few choices that you have here. You can either wait until you do have them money, and you will just have to purchase the game at a later date. There is nothing wrong with this strategy, as it is what many people are going to do. But if you are a super impatient person, we do not think there is anything wrong with going on the Games Download to get the game for free. You are going to have to follow a few steps before you get a license key, but the whole process should not be taking you more than 15 or 20 minutes.
When you get access to the key, you can go and download the game from the site they tell you about. It will not take more than a few hours, depending on the speed of your internet connection, and then you can play the game to your heart’s content. Now I know what you are thinking why are we promoting getting the game for free? The reason is because we know that many people do not have the money immediately when a game comes out, but they still want to play that game their friends are talking about.
What we always suggest is that when you do find yourself having the money, go ahead and buy the game. Sure, you may think that you can just keep playing this free version, but do you not want to support the game developers? Ultimately, they will only keep making those kinds of games if people like you are purchasing them. So yes, get the free version and play it. If you like what you see, get the game the moment you have the disposable income. Now you are getting the game earlier, but you are also doing your part.
The thing about gaming on all platforms is that we need to support the games that we love the most. Sure, you may feel as though it is not too sensible to pay a huge amount of money for a game the moment it comes out. You may want to give it a fair shot before you are going to spend the money. But when you get these free versions of the game, you are getting that chance. And when you have spent a week or two trying out the game, we think it is time for you to make the purchase!


Only club members and persons attending club organized classes who have paid all club fees/dues will be allowed to row in club boats. Members of other rowing clubs or those with rowing experience who have a basic membership with USRA can row as guests on a limited basis. All participants must have a signed waiver on file.
Annual club membership dues: $250.00
LBVRC members also need to obtain Basic Membership with the United States Rowing Association (USRA). Consult USRA for more details or visit the US Rowing Association!
For competitive rowing: Dues do not cover the cost of regatta entry fees, boat transport (gas/trailer fees), boat rental fees, uniforms, travel expenses, and other related expenses.
If you are new to the sport of rowing you are encouraged to go through the Learn to Row program prior to joining the club.
The rowing club is also looking for individuals who would like to join the club as full time coxswains. Coxswains are members of the crew that steer the boats and provide commands, feedback, and direction to the rowers. Approved candidates will receive training, instruction, and hands-on experience; free membership to the club which includes the use of the rowing machines during winter workouts; and the opportunity to participate in and join the rowing community in an active role.


Welcome to Tiny Tots. Your children will have a great time learning and participating in our games and activities each week.
Tiny Tots are aged between 3 and 4 years old. The Tiny Tots program includes games based activities to develop gross motor skills in a non-competitive environment. The activities are designed to build running, throwing and jumping skills whilst also developing listening skills, responding to instruction, and working as individuals in a team.
Tiny Tots programs
Tiny Tots athletes are split into groups and rotate through three to four different activities each week before coming back together for a group activity. These activities focus on fun, fitness and coordination as well as teaching the techniques needed for when the tots graduate to the full track and field program. From time to time, Tots also have the opportunity to run on the “big” track and have a go at developing their long jump skills in the sand pits. The aim of this is to ease the transition from Tots to Under 6s.
Each Saturday we award Tiny Tots encouragement trophies, which children take home for a week. The trophies are awarded to children who have shown good sportsmanship, team work or trying hard to develop a new skill.
Tiny Tot dates
Tiny Tots participate on the same dates as the regular Centre competitions from September through to March (see Season Program), with a slightly different program. Tiny Tots starts at 8:10am each Saturday on the top oval, and the program finishes by 9:30am, before it gets too hot. Tiny Tots also get to participate in our special Christmas event at Sydney Olympic Park.
If there is inclement weather, check the website or facebook to see if the competition has been cancelled for the day. A decision to cancel is not normally made until the day itself, so the website would not be updated until early on the Saturday morning.
We rely on the parents helping with this program, to keep it running each week, and the children love showing family members what they can do. Most importantly don’t forget a drink and a healthy snack for your child, sunscreen and a hat. Tiny Tots wear a special T-shirt, available to purchase online, and any shorts or pants can be worn with appropriate sports shoes.
We do hope your children have a great season, and that you enjoy watching them have fun.
Tiny Tots Team Managers
We need parents to supervise the activities of our tiny tots groups. There is always a need for additional help and the Tiny Tots program is already written, with very easy to follow instructions. So if you can follow instructions, have enthusiasm, and love being a part of your child’s development, then you will be great for the role!


Please join us on Sunday, April 14th at 1:30 at the Wheaton Community Center when Jenny Ross will talk about Family Needlework and Genealogy. Family samplers can provide important genealogical information that can be used to fill in your family tree. Jenny will explain how she and her father identified Cyntha May and determined how they are related. Some background in Southern Samplers and North Carolina Sampler teachers will also be provided.
Jenny will explain how to use information from a sampler to trace family history and highlight some interesting family genealogical studies. She will also share family photographs, dating back to the 1830s, and other pieces of treasured family needlework. If you would like, bring a piece of needlework that has been handed down in your family to share – it does not have to be a sampler.


VEX400 Valve Exerciser
- Metabo drill with protective roll cage to provide added protection on the worksite
- 400 peak ft/lbs torque
- Bi-directional movement
- Torque multiplying gear box
- Rotation counter for tracking turns in either direction
- Breaks down for easy transportation and storage in the provided case
- Multiple extensions included for reaching varying valve depths
- Extra battery for longer work cycles
Power Head, (2) Legs with (2) Foot Platforms and "V" Platform, Deluxe
Drive Shaft, Valve Key/Socket, (3) 20V Batteries and Charger (for all
day use), Hard Storage Case for Drill, Storage Bag for Legs and
Extensions, (1) 12" Extension, (1) 24" Extension, and (1) 36" Extension
*Without included extensions, the Deluxe Valve Exerciser reaches depths from 8" to 36"
*With all included extensions, the Deluxe Valve Exerciser reaches depths from 8" to 108"


Epping Horticultural Society is pleased to announce our programme of events for 2020 – stimulating talks, trips to wonderful gardens. social events and of course our Annual Show. See the summary below, and for more information, view our Events page.
18th March – Talk on Environmentally Friendly Gardening
Victoria Robertson tells us how to be more eco-aware when we garden.
25th April – Trip to RHS Wisley
We’re assured of a great day at this beautiful RHS garden. It has been relaid in several areas and is a delight to behold.
16th May – Plant Swap Afternoon
Come along to Pelly Court and bring your spare plants. Donate these to the swap table and pick what you’d like to take in return.
17th June – Annual General Meeting
Come along to our AGM and support your Society! Please also bring your best single stem rose for the Rose Competition.
15th July – A Walk in the French Alps
Jon Hill gives an inspiring illustrated talk on his walk over the French Alps to raise funds for the charity The Red Rubber Ball Foundation.
29th August – The Society’s Annual Show
Our Annual Horticultural Show will again take place at St John’s Church. The full list of classes and the show theme will be announced in due course.
19th September – trip to Barnsdale Gardens
Barnsdale Gardens was created by Geoff Hamilton and featured for several years on the BBC’s Gardeners’ World. There are 38 individual gardens spread across eight acres, all managed organically, as well as a plant shop and excellent tea rooms. We are assured of a fascinating day out!
21st October – Animal Magic
The Paradise Wildlife Park is an animal conservation centre in Hertfordshire working on preserving endangered species. Maggie Radcliffe will talk about the work of the Park.
21st November – Christmas Social Event
An afternoon quiz with light refreshments and fun.
17th March 2021 – The Wonders of Norway
Joanne Larner offers a chance to visit this beautiful country without leaving the warmth of Pelly Court!
Other events of interest to our members
Gardeners may also be interested in the following taking place around Epping during 2020.
31st May – Epping Open Gardens Once again many brave gardeners are exposing their efforts to public scrutiny! This year there will also be some open allotments at Meadow Road.
6th-7th June – Epping in Bloom Scarecrow Festival Join the Scarecrow Festival this year – just create a scarecrow and put it in your garden for visitors to find on the maps provided.
5th July – Epping Town Show EHS will be running a stall at the annual Epping Town Show. Expect to find plants for sale and other gardening goods. Come and visit us!
8th November – Remembrance Sunday Laying of wreaths at Epping War Memorial to remember those who sacrificed themselves for our country.


Our little elf Owen has joined us again this year. We love his crazy antics. For fun, I made him a foppish little capelet to wear when he has tea. Enjoy the free pattern!
Materials: fabric (no-fray fleece or felt), 12" of holiday ribbon
If you use felt, you'll need no seam allowances. Just cut as shown on the fold. Stitch or hot glue on the ribbon. Fasten with a scrapbooking brad or spot of double-sided tape and you're ready to pen sublime fiction and enjoy a bit of tea and cake.
Tomorrow, I will post a pattern for a superhero cape -- just as easy as this one.
We have been killing Summer this year. Seriously. And soon it will get even better because we're going on vacation. The beaches there are loaded with coral and a few have lots of sea glass. As we're big collectors in this family, I searched for a cool mesh bag for our loot.
As a class A cheapskate, I refused to spend a ton of money on any of the ones I had seen online so I scoured the Dollar Store for inspiration. I spotted a lingerie bag in the washing aisle and knew I had found "the one." And then I bought two.
Z wanted a messenger style and I made myself one with a wrist strap to match. Look for us on "The Island." (We're pretending the whole place belongs to us).
It took about 15 minutes. I just stitched over the two edges 4 or 5 times to make sure the seam would be secure. Less than $2.
More posts to come. You know you've been busy when the photos from your brother's Easter Egg Hunt are still on the camera...
I know it's crazy late to be posting Christmas pictures but I do have a full-time job, people. I had photoshop hidden and forgot to save these.
So this is my bean as a Christmas elf. We have been doing this every year since she was born. Check them out here.
I wanted to start a tradition of buying a hat on Etsy for each year but I bit the bullet and made one myself. I found a quick tutorial online and lined it with fleece. I made the pattern a bit smaller after making a test and I shouldn't have. With the lining, it was too small. It would have been perfect.
For the first time ever, I styled my mantel for the holidays. I've had most of this stuff for years but I usually just toss it all up there. This year, I wanted to do something special. I pulled out all the white and silver.
Z and I made the trees. It took me about 45 minutes to wind and hot glue the yarn around the tall tree. I might add another layer or some color next year. We glittered the other cone with super chunky glitter.
The deer is my favorite. I got it last year at Crate and Barrel I think. I was with my mom in Manhattan and after seeing the Rockettes. We walked all the way up 5th Avenue (?) looking at the lights. On our way back down the next street (Madison?), we shopped for a long time. The jingle bell garland is from there too.
Last year I found the perfect cylinder vase for the jingle bells. The plate with the birch trees and single cardinal is from TJMaxx. They have the best holiday stuff.
This is a bit of the top. My vintage favorites mixed with the Martha Stewart Santa tree topper from back when she was just out of prison and wasn't too good for Kmart. Oh why doesn't she love us poor people anymore? I liked buying Martha stuff at Kmart. There is no Macy's near here.
Oh, and just so you know, I think I'm using the word Mantelscape somewhat ironically. I really don't take myself that seriously. Edit: just realized the typo in the original post. Mantle is actually a correct spelling but not the more common one. Oops.
The studio apartMac is finally finished! I took some photos before we went out of town last week but I had some technical difficulties and only managed to upload a couple of quick shots to Flickr. I am happy with what's here but I'm going to take advantage of the extension to edit a little bit and refine some pieces.
I stuck closely to my inspiration and I think it all came together. Of course, my favorite bits are the little macbook and iPad from lilushop (thanks to Modern Mini Houses for the tip).
The billy balls that my assistant (3 years old!) and I made are perfect in the eBay vase.
I've seen this wood slice wall art around the internet a good bit so I had Mr. Lemon chop up some sticks and I glued them above the fireplace (another cheap eBay find). The little houses are from a vendor at Handmade Arcade and the birch logs are from Gigi N Studio.
I'm most proud of the wood shelf. It was a scrap leftover from the fireplace slices and it fit perfectly above the sink (that's a chair from the Irwin Interior Decorator set).
These are just a few of my favorite vignettes. With the extension, I'll be able to take better photos in different light and get some good views of the whole thing. The iMac is a beautiful piece of design but it's so hard to shoot the scene!
It probably seems like I haven't been working on my studio apartMac but that's not true. It's just that I've been doing all these little things that don't look like much. I spent a very long time on the stone floor. The vinyl sheets were from eBay and I had to cut them to the size of the base which meant stacking one on top of the other. To make it look more realistic, I cut away the top layer in a stone pattern then sealed up the seam. You can't tell in the right lighting that it is not one piece.
I also worked on the kitchen unit. I made a farm sink out of pieces from the Irwin Interior Decorator Set. I think it looks pretty good although I do need to touch it up a bit and attach the bar table.
On the left side of the unit, I'm building a wall behind that fireplace. I have an art piece in mind that I'm very excited about. If I use the Petite Princess chair, I will paint it so that it looks like grey leather. This tiny space can seat more than 10 guests! And there is so much more in store. I'm hoping to finish up this weekend.
While I enjoy holiday crafting and all the sewing I've been doing for the doll I bought my assistant for Christmas, it always feels right to work on the minis.
I'm pretty sure this is the last of our Christmas craft extravaganza. We're going to take it easy from now on. This is just a felt ornament that we got at the dollar store (where everything is $1). We just glued all these sparkly bits to it with tacky glue. It took about 45 minutes. If you have a toddler, you know how precious that 45 minutes can be. That's a lifetime of being occupied.
We hung one in each of our front windows using those Command hangers. I can't get a good picture at all but you get the idea.
I've been hoarding these tins for years and got the idea to make these little scenario ornaments out of them. It was super simple. Just drill a tiny hole in the top of the tin and thread the baker's twine through it to hang. Everything inside is just tacked in with glue. I think they turned out well and I like them in this little cluster in front of the window.
Finally, a word about Pinterest. I am loving Pinterest and having such a blast with it -- so many great ideas. Please, pin away! But I do ask that you pin directly from my post and not the jpeg image so it will link back here. I spend a lot of time writing and coming up with ideas. I'm obviously not in this for the money; I just really enjoy doing it. So give me a little cred, okay? Thanks so much!


Haggin 2nd Saturdays: Printmaking for the Holidays
Event Type: Family
Date: Saturday, December 8, 2012
Time: 1:30pm - 3:00pm
1201 N. Pershing Ave.
Stockton, CA 95203
Make your own holiday cards and gift tags using simple printmaking techniques, while surrounded by the beautiful decorations in the museum galleries.
Activities are included with the price of admission
and all materials are provided. No reservations are required; just come and have fun! For more information, call (209) 940-6315 or e-mail email@example.com.
- Adults (ages 18-64): $8
- Seniors (ages 65+): $7
- Youth (ages 10-17) and Students (with valid school ID): $5
- Museum Members, Children under age 10 accompanied by an adult, First Saturday of the month: Free


A long hot week during the dog days of summer is colloquially punctuated with a backyard BBQ and cold beer, or a patio drink underneath a colourful umbrella. The culture of drinking during the summer can make it seem impossible to enjoy the sunshine without imbibing, making it a particularly difficult time for those in recovery from alcohol addiction. Yet, if taken the right way, the summer sunshine offers a wonderful opportunity to get outside and overcome the struggles that accompany alcohol addiction recovery. Soaking up the vitamin D and releasing some endorphins through moderate exercise are great tools to ensure a successful and sober summer! Below are some of our favourite ways to stay sober through the summer:
Trails snake across every stretch of Nova Scotia, and parks pepper each town, allowing for lots of options when looking for a place to hike. From a leisurely stroll through Point Pleasant Park to a more challenging trip through Cape Chignecto Provincial Park, no matter your fitness level or skill there is a place for you to get out and get some fresh air. Try making a schedule for the summer, with your “must-do” hikes and goals for length and speed to reach over the coming months.
Giving back to your community, and recognizing the enormous impact you can have within your community is a great way to reinforce your commitment to sobriety. Take the opportunity that longer summer days offer by choosing a place to volunteer. Whether it’s walking puppies at the SPCA, helping out at the Halifax Jazz Fest, or doing a community clean up, find something you’re passionate about and get involved!
3. Join a Sports Team
Test out your coordination by joining a new sports team like volleyball or softball. Recreational sports teams are a great way to get involved in your community, making new friends and developing important skills. And better yet, you’ll be able to get some fresh air and exercise while you’re at it. No matter what skill level, there is a team out there for you to try.
4. Try a New Class
During recovery from alcohol addiction, it’s important to find new activities which replace old habits. The longer days of summer offer a wonderful opportunity to learn a new hobby—and if you’re lucky you can soak up some sunshine in the process! Yoga in the Park or Pilates on the Waterfront are a couple of free, weekly classes to try out around Halifax. If you’re more creative, try a painting or piano class. In addition to learning a new skill, you’ll be building up your self-confidence, equipping you for a happy life, all year long.
5. Start a Book Club
There are few things as relaxing as lounging in the sunshine with an enthralling book, except maybe sharing that experience with a group of friends. Beginning a book club gives you the motivation to get through your summer book list, while bolstering your support group. If you need a bit of extra encouragement to stay sober, try reading books about addiction recovery and success stories. Call a couple friends, or reach out to other people in recovery, create a book list for the summer and get started!
6. Attend a Refresher Weekend at Searidge Alcohol Rehab
Searidge Foundation is proud to offer refresher weekends to our alumni, as part of our extensive aftercare program. If you’re having trouble avoiding the temptations of alcohol this summer or would simply like to refresh the skills you learned through alcohol rehab, you are always welcome back. We will be happy to help you through the challenges you are facing, preparing you for many more sober summers.


Sports in India have always been popular and are becoming increasingly important in today’s society. As India grows and its economy develops, its citizens increasingly find themselves in a situation where they have more disposable income to use for leisure activities such as sports. This has created an increased demand for sports and a huge rise in the number of professional sports teams and leagues.
Sports in India are loved by many as it is one of the most popular forms of entertainment in the country. Sporting activities can bring communities together, provide entertainment, and teach people important life skills.
According to recent surveys, more than 95% of people in India engage in one form of sport or another. This shows the immense popularity of sports in the country and the levels of engagement.
One of the reasons why sports are so popular in India is due to the rise in betting. Betting on sports has become a popular pastime in many parts of the country and has even created a multi-billion-dollar industry.
People enjoy the thrill of betting on their favorite team and hoping for victory. Whether they win or lose, many people enjoy the excitement of betting on sports and the chance to make money.
Plus, the advent of online sportsbooks has made it easier for sports fans in India to place their bet. They do not have to visit physical sportsbooks to place their bet and it can even be done from the comfort of their own home.
There are a variety of different betting options available and all of them seem very promising. One of the best examples of this is crypto sports betting.
Crypto Sports Betting Popularity In India
Crypto sports betting in India is a new way to bet on sports using digital cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. It allows users to place bets in a more secure and convenient way than traditional online betting sites. This form of sports betting has become increasingly popular in India and is now being used by millions of sports enthusiasts across the country.
Crypto sports betting differs from regular online sports betting in several ways. Traditional sportsbooks require users to provide personal information when signing up, which could potentially be used for identity theft.
With crypto sports betting, all transactions are anonymous and secure. This means users can place their bets without having to worry about their information being stolen.
Crypto sports betting also offers users more flexibility when it comes to choosing the sports they want to bet on. With reputable sites such as cryptobettingindia.com, users can choose from a wider variety of options, including sports from international leagues such as the NFL and NBA. They can also bet on games from smaller markets such as cricket and rugby.
The popularity of crypto sports betting in India is due to several factors. One of the main reasons is the ease of access it provides users. Crypto sports betting does not require users to have a bank account or credit card, and all transactions are completed quickly and securely.
Additionally, the levels of anonymity it provides means users can wager without worrying about who may be monitoring their activity. Lastly, the ability to use cryptocurrency to place bets gives users more control and flexibility over the betting process.
Tips To Get You Started
Crypto sports betting is a relatively new concept in India and many people may not be familiar with it yet. As with any new form of betting, it is important to do your research and learn as much as you can before taking any risks.
Learning about crypto sports betting can help you make informed decisions and maximize your chances of success. Here are a few tips that can help you get started with crypto sports betting in India:
1. Familiarize yourself with the different crypto betting platforms available in India. Research the different features each platform offers, as well as any fees and additional terms and conditions associated with them. Make sure you understand all of the necessary requirements before registering.
2. Set aside a budget for your crypto sports betting. While the potential profits from crypto sports betting can be high, it is important to remember that losses are also possible. Make sure you only wager amounts that you can comfortably afford to lose, and keep your coins in a secure wallet.
3. Learn the rules and regulations of the sport you are betting on. Every sport has its own set of rules and regulations which must be followed. This will help you make more informed decisions and make sure you are following the law.
4. Research the betting market and stay up to date on current trends and news. Following the news and researching the betting market can give you a better understanding of the different strategies that are effective.
5. Start with smaller bets on the sports you are interested in. This will allow you to learn the ropes and increase your chances of success as you become more confident in your ability to predict outcomes accurately. Crypto sports betting in India is a relatively new concept but its potential is enormous.
By following these tips, you can begin to build up your knowledge and gain from the potential profits available in this exciting form of betting.
To Sum Up
Sports in India is one of the most popular forms of entertainment there and its popularity is steadily increasing. People enjoy betting on their favorite team to add to the excitement, and the advent of online sportsbooks has made it easy for people in India to place their bets.
Recently, crypto sports betting has become increasingly popular in India as people are looking for a more secure and convenient way to bet on sports.
There are a few tips to get you started with crypto sports betting in India, such as familiarizing yourself with the different crypto betting platforms available, setting a budget, and learning the rules and regulations of the sport you are betting on. By following these tips, you can begin to reap the rewards available in this exciting form of betting.


Fun Activities to Do with Grandparents or Senior Loved Ones
Who doesn’t like a good game of cards? Card games like UNO, Old Maid or Go Fish are great for any age!
Solve crosswords, puzzles or riddles.
Puzzles are great because they challenge the mind and involve teamwork from both parties.
Interview each other! Take notes or record it with your smartphone.
Give yourself something to look back on by interviewing your grandparents or elderly friend! Who knows, you may find out something new yourself.
Draw a family tree and discuss its branches.
Most families are a lot bigger than we tend to perceive. Sit with your grandparents or senior and go over a little family history.
Share old photos and talk about the stories behind them.
Each photo is worth a thousand words, but oftentimes we don’t know the real story behind the photos we see.
Go on a walk.
Depending on the location, you may be able to go on a quick walk to do a little sightseeing and get some fresh air.
Have a tea party.
Putting on a big fancy hat and doing a little acting is a great way to escape reality and have a little fun.
Take turns reading a book.
Whether it’s a bedtime story or a chapter of a favorite book reading is a great way to instill the importance of reading.
Draw pictures of one another.
Drawings are a great keepsake for both you and your senior loved one.
Watch a movie together.
Movies are a great way to pass time and relax! Pick a favorite movie to share and enjoy a healthy snack.
Have breakfast or dinner together.
Getting out of the house and going to dinner is a great, easy way to make some new memories.
Sharing the secret cookie recipe is a great way to bond and have a little fun in the kitchen.
Sing karaoke and dance!
Want to see your grandparents or senior dance? Ask them their favorite song growing up and throw it on for a little dance party.
Color or paint picture frames.
Create something that will always have a special place in your heart by decorating a picture frame with your loved one.


|Paulette Leef and her Whānau were honoured to represent Rangitāne o Tamaki Nui a Rua at the Aotearoa Māori Basketball Tournament for the fifth consecutive year.
They started in 2016 with just one team and because of the requirement for an iwi affiliation, Paulette who’s is of Rangitāne o Tamaki Nui a Rua descent, approached the Runanga and they gave their blessing for her team to represent them. At the time 50 percent of the team were of Rangitāne descent including the Coach and Manager.
This year a total of 8 teams enter the tournament – all representing Rangitāne o Tamaki Nui a Rua.
A Mixed Social who placed 11th in the A Grade. Under 19 Tāne who won a gold medal in the B Grade. Under 19 Wāhine who won a gold medal in the A grade and this is their fifth year representing the Iwi. Under 15 tama placed 11th in the B grade. Under 13 tama placed 8th in the A grade. Under 11 tama placed 7th in the A grade. Under 11 kōtiro placed 5th in the A grade and the Under 9 kōtiro placed 8th in the A grade.
Over 60 percent of the players, managers and coaches that participated in this year’s tournament descend from Rangitāne. Those that are involved come from all over Aotearoa, Australia and even the USA to play or awhi the kaupapa.
Competitors and supporters stayed at Kearoa Marae, which was a great way for everyone to bond and connect with each other and formed friendships that will last a lifetime.
This awesome kaupapa involves great intensity, amazing competition and teams working together to get great results. The Māori Basketball Tournament incorporates all of these aspects as well as being strongly Whānau orientated which means everyone has an awesome time.
All players and management are already looking forward to next year’s tournament with many ideas and plans have already been discussed. Organisers are overwhelmed with how many Whānau and friends want to join the kaupapa and welcome all whānau to come join them in Rotorua 2021 to get some more amazing results.
The aim is to eventually have 20 teams representing, and Paulette welcomes all Whānau of Rangitāne to join the group page on Facebook – Rangitane o Tamaki Nui a Rua Māori Basketball.
It is great to see such a great involvement in this tournament and we look forward to seeing many achievements in the years to come.


Tampa youth soccer
|Soccer Gemz is a fun, non-competitive, youth soccer program for boys and girls in the Tampa area ages 18 months to 8 years of all skill levels. Soccer Gemz offers a unique and age-appropriate curriculum designed to make sure your child learns the game of soccer while having fun over a 7 week period. Our team of caring instructors make each class fun by incorporating creative games and fun teaching techniques using a variety of props such as hula hoops, bean bags, and parachutes into our soccer program. Register today for our next session at a location near you! For more information and for pricing, please contact our local office.
||Our soccer program was created to help your child not only enjoy soccer but also:


CROSSING the RAPPAHANNOCK: A PILGRIMAGE to FREEDOM
September 22, 2012
RIVER WALKERS’ REGISTRATION FORM
Age:__________ If age 12 or under, please name the adult who will be walking in the river with you (required):____________________________Relationship______________________
Address: ____________________________City:_________________State:___ Zip:_________
· A group of about 20 will enter and exit the river at the historic Cow’s Ford on the Fauquier side and walk 1st upstream (to simulate the original entry from the Culpeper Co. side) then turn and walk downstream (back to the point of entry) as they recreate the original crossing.· Normal Conditions: 90% of the recreation will be on sand bars; 100% will actually be in the water crossing very mild rapids with an average depth of 6-8 inches. The river bottom is firm and absent of holes and debris.
· Participants are required to wear water shoes, proper boots or tennis shoes.
· Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
· All participants must preregister and sign a Waiver of Liability.
· Participants will be accepted on a first come basis.
· The organizers reserve the right to refuse entry to the river to anyone we feel may be at risk.
· The organizers reserve the right to alter this portion of the program should the condition of the river be hazardous.
I, the undersigned, have read and been apprised of the potential risks and requirements should I choose to participate in the “River Walk” portion of the recreation of the Crossing to Freedom event on Saturday, September 22, 2012.
By my signature below, I assume all personal responsibility for any occurrence as a result of my choice to participate and hold harmless all those listed as sponsors or co-sponsors of this event. If the applicant is under the age of 18, a legal guardian must sign this document.______________________


Achieving precise shading in tattooing is an art form that requires skill, experience, and the right tools. One of the essential tools for shading with precision is the tattoo shader needle. Whether you are a beginner tattoo artist or working in this industry for years, this guide will explain everything you should know about tattoo shader needles.
Understanding tattoo shader needles:
Shader needles, also known as magnum needles, are a type of tattoo needle specifically designed for shading and coloring. Unlike liner needles, which are used for outlining and fine lines, shader needles have a different configuration that allows for smoother and more even ink distribution. Here’s what you need to know about shader needles:
Shader needles come in various configurations, with the most common being:
Round shader (RS): Round shaders are arranged in a circular pattern, often in groups of 3, 5, 7, or more needles. They are versatile and suitable for various shading techniques, from subtle gradients to dense fills.
Flat shader (F): Flat shader needles have a row of needles that are soldered in a flat line, allowing for a broader coverage area. They are ideal for larger shading projects and creating smooth, even gradients.
Magnum shader (M1 and M2): Magnum shaders have multiple rows of needles, providing an even larger coverage area. M1 shaders have a single row of needles, while M2 shaders have two rows. They are excellent for quick and efficient shading, especially in larger tattoo pieces.
Ink saturation and depth:
Shader needles are designed to allow ink to flow smoothly and evenly, creating a consistent tone or gradient. Tattoo artists can control the depth of the needle penetration to achieve different shading effects. Proper ink saturation and needle depth are critical for achieving precise and appealing shading in tattoos.
Techniques for precise shading:
Circular shading: Rotating the tattoo machine in small circular motions creates soft and subtle shading transitions.
Whip shading: Using a slight whipping motion while tattooing can produce a textured and gradient effect.
Parallel shading: Running the shader needles parallel to the skin’s surface creates smooth, even shading.
Layering and stippling: Layering different shades of ink or stippling with the shader needles can add depth and dimension to the tattoo.


Membership prices 2024
***FREE GYM MEMBERSHIP WHEN JOINING AS A FULL GOLF MEMBER ***
- Full – £610
- 5 Day Monday to Friday – £455
- Social Golf (max 20 casual rounds) – £300
- Seniors – £500 (£580 first year)
- 22 – 29 – £310
- 18 – 21 – £210
- Juniors under 16 – FREE / 16-18 – £95
- Gym – £150 or £15 per month
£30 bar levy (except juniors). Family memberships also available , please call for details (01356 625270/622383)
Here’s 14 good reasons to join us
- A fantastic golf course.
- Friendly and welcoming staff.
- Hickory Restaurant open every day.
- PGA Professional on hand to help with all your golfing needs, with a well stocked shop.
- Invite guests to play at a discounted rate of £15.
- Get free golf at Kirriemuir Golf Club.
- 50% off your golf at any other Angus Club.
- A fully fitted Gym on site.
- 5% discount off all bar and catering prices.
- Lots of functions and theme nights.
- Lots of competitions for men, ladies and juniors.
- Free junior coaching for the young beginners.
- A fantastic FOOTGOLF course.
- Various membership categories and prices to suit all.


My love for sewing and fabric is a gift from my Mom and it was my sister, Rose, who introduced me to the world of quilts. Rose discovered the "new" world of quilting in the 1970's, when the quilting craze began to blossom. She was a fantastic teacher. My Mom was a great seamstress and she was very well taught. She patiently and generously began teaching me little things about sewing when I was just 3 years old. During the summer when I was 11, I began learning how to sew in earnest. She also taught me how different fibers felt by touch and what different weave types were named by sight. I loved sewing then and still do, obviously. It's quite lovely for a mother to give her daughter both a source for her livelihood and a source for great creative joy.
I've worn lots of hats over the years, from being a costumer to manufacturing gifts and decorative accessories during the 1980's. It was my great honor to write how-to books for Sterling/Chapelle for over a decade and now I create for Mary Jo Hiney Designs, my favorite work ever. The idea for Silk Adaptation arrived early one morning as Divine Inspiration! My family, my dear friends and our doggie never stop offering support and just plain 'ol good advice and logical ideas. They are the best inspiration for which a girl could ever ask. I have a degree from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, where I received the noteworthy Peacock Award upon graduation! It's a feather in my cap!
Two of my greatest pleasures have been to sew gorgeous wedding dresses for two gorgeous young women, our daughter, Lexi (who wanted a princess gown) and our daughter-in-law Marissa (who wanted a Jean Harlow gown). They were spectacularly beautiful on their wedding days, but they are beautiful every day....as are we all, right? I've included a few of my favorite family photos on this page.
I love the phrase "for such a time as this" and have borrowed it from the book of Esther, with great thanks for her inspiration.
Enjoy your journey through my website!
The Princess Gown! The Jean Harlow Gown! M'riss & Joshie!
Here's my Mom! and my husband, Ev Marissa, MJ, Claire Bear and Lexi
Lexi and Ian, with their bridal party! Lexi, my Mom and Claire Bear


KL Bird Park
Located in the serene and scenic Kuala Lumpur Lake Gardens, it is only 10 minutes’ drive away from the city centre of Kuala Lumpur. It is home to more than 3,000 local and foreign birds of approximately 200 different species.
Sprawling approximately 20.9 acres of verdant valley terrain, the park is divided into 4 zones; Zone 1 and 2 make up the free-flight zone; Zone 3 is the Hornbill Park and Zone 4 is where the birds are placed in separate cages and mini aviaries.
One of KL Bird Park’s most extraordinary feature is that in Zone 1, 2 and 3, birds are let free in the aviary which closely resembles their natural habitat. With this free-flight concept, birds are able to breed naturally in this unique environment.
Visitors will have an exciting experience of watching colourful and melodic birds perching and winging about freely while relaxing in a natural and beautifully landscaped surrounding. KL Bird Park is also wheelchair-friendly and is reputed to be the largest free-flight walk-in aviary in the world.


Hey there! I'm Charis (The "Ch" has a "K" sound and it rhymes with Paris), a Christ-following, silly, intellectual, brown-skinned girl with a head sprouting dreadlocks that loves movies, art and good music. I have created A Saturday Morning as a space for sharing things that bring me joy, issues and topics I've turned over in my mind 1,000 times, and those random little thoughts that distract me from productivity. By creating this space, I hope to make authentic connections by communicating with you all. As you hear from me, I would love to hear from you. Welcome to A Saturday Morning!


It’s been a delicious summer. Perhaps a little too delicious. Sounds like a good reason to revisit The Rules, and what better day to do it than at the start of a month. The #1 on a calendar is a chance for a fresh start, and since I appear to have gained back a few of the pounds that I lost in the first half of the year, I think it’s time to hunker down (or something equivalent to hunkering down) and take QCT to the next level.
OK, that’s extreme, I just want to get it back to the previous level. That level was OK.
Some quick stats for my first round of QCT: In the first six weeks of the year, I dropped between 12-15 lbs. I started the year somewhere between 142-145 lbs, and dropped and held a weight between 130-133 through June. I accomplished this by following a few simple rules that I outlined in the first post in this blog.
Part of my motivation was to drop a bit of weight to improve my race times, and in particular, to fulfil my quest for a Boston Marathon qualifying time. Mission accomplished: In late May I ran a PR for the 5k in 19:50. On June 6th I ran a 3:15:22 marathon and qualified for Boston. On July 4th I ran a sub-26 minute four miler. None of these numbers are going to impress the Olympic committee, but they’re all breakthroughs for me, and validation of the efforts I put in.
Unfortunately, I think I got a little to relaxed after the qualifying marathon, and especialy after the July 4th weekend. I lost a bit of focus on the QCT approach and I started gaining weight back. So before it gets out of hand, I am going to take control back.
My goal for August is to drop lose the weight I have gained back but also start gaining a bit more muscle. My ultimate goal is a sub 3:10 marathon in September, which would break my marathon PR.
My long term goal is to continue the good habits that I have picked up in the first half of the year. I wanted to summarize a few of these habits, which I think were the keys to my health success, in addition to my original Rules:
- Cereal - I have not had a bowl of cereal all year. I miss the crap out of it sometimes, but I think it was one of the most important changes I made.
- Soda - Not an ounce all year. I never really drank regular soda anyway, and I doubt the diet soda had a huge metabolic impact, but it sure feels good not to have that junk in my stomach.
- Subway - I used to LIVE on Subway sandwiches, at least twice a week I’d eat there. How can something that made Jared lose all that weight be unhealthy? What’s wrong with cold cuts? Nothing, on the surface, but its a gateway to unhealthy eating. Portion size is thrown off. Plus, you stop thinking about ingredients when someone hands you a prepared meal.
- Salad - The more leafy greens you’re eating, the less of something else is going in your stomach.
- Herbal Tea - Herbal tea completely curbed my late night cravings in the beginning, and also became a part of a decompression routine that I need to get back into.
- Quinoa - Great subsitute for rice
- Yams- Filling, healthy, colorful, versitile, and packed with nutrients (kinda like healthy, I guess). I can eat a yam with nothing on it.
- Cooking - I am convinced that the ingredients themselves are less important than the commitment to preparing them. Part of the QCT experiment was to take part in preparing the meal, and sharing the results at a table with good company.
- Wine - I am not going to argue with results. Plus, I love a small glass of red when I am cooking. It’s basically a vitamin.
Tomorrow night, I’m kicking off again with a repeat offering of my version of Pho. I’ll probably have a yam or some quinoa for lunch. But for now, I’ll just finish my herbal tea and go to bed…


Repurposing a 1960’s Countertop
What do you do with an old countertop when you’re renovating a bathroom?
Well if you’re like most renovators you’ll throw out the old and bring in the new.
But if you’re me…you’ll make a guitar out of it!
A little while back we were asked to renovate a 1960’s bathroom. When I saw the cabinets and countertop, (which were very dated) I couldn’t help but be drawn to the pattern and colour of the counter top.
I started thinking in my mind that this top might make for an interesting electric guitar. I’ve been building guitars for a few years now as a hobby so I’m always looking for new ideas for body designs.
First step was to remove the laminate from the existing counter top.
This was done by heating the laminate with a heat gun and then sliding a wide putty knife under it to remove it from the plywood backing.
Once I had a suitable piece of laminate I could work with, I laid out a design for the body.
Next I cut a body out of a piece of Basswood to which I could glue the laminate to.
Once the cavities had been routed out for the neck pocket, pick-ups and controls etc. I glued the laminate to the body blank and router trimmed the edges for a smooth finish.
The same procedure was done for the headstock and truss rod cover.
At this point I test fit all the components to make sure they would fit the way I wanted them to.
Because the laminate on the guitar reminded me of a mid-century diner counter top, I thought it only fitting that I wrap a chrome edge around the body to complete that look. The plastic chrome wrap was purchased at Canadian Tire. It’s actually a car body moulding trim.
After trimming the chrome wrap I masked off the body and applied a nice cool blue paint to the back of the body to compliment the colour of the laminate.
I had a “DJW” decal logo made for me that I used on the headstock.
I so enjoyed building this guitar, I named it “The Table Top”.
I think it turned out very nicely.


I have been on fire with Pinterest . . . in terms of finding recipes, that is. As alluded to previously, I’m obsessed with searching for recipe ideas via the online bulletin board. Instead of scanning a printed recipe to determine a meal’s appeal, I can make an almost instantaneous decision by looking at an image.
(I joked with my husband about the number of dishes featuring cheese on one of the boards I follow. And then I realized almost every image pinned to my food idea board featured . . . cheese.)
Some recipes I’ve plucked from Pinterest (and tried) over the last few weeks:
They didn’t all consist of pasta and cheese:
I even made Mountain Dew cupcakes for my stepson’s birthday (homage to his beverage of choice).
I always contend the tastiest recipes are those shared by others. There’s a whole lotta sharing going on in the Pinterest community.
If you’re using Pinterest, you may be aware that some legal experts question whether all that sharing constitutes copyright infringement. Amy Lynn Andrews offers a broad range of perspectives at Blogging with Amy if you’re interested in learning more.
I believe the infringement question pertains more to artists and photographers whose work can easily be repinned without crediting the original source (or those artists may not have given permission for their work to be shared in the first place). Ruth Suehle offers some thoughtful commentary on the topic and the Internet’s culture of sharing with this post via opensource.com.
Any of the recipes I have repinned so far have linked to the original source, which is probably not surprising since most people pinning food ideas want more than the image — they need the original source for the recipe itself.
Going so far as to delete Pinterest accounts seems premature, especially in light of the legal ambiguity. But until the legal questions are resolved, you may find you’re more comfortable pinning from the original source (or at least making sure your repinned images link to the original).


What is Baby Dance Club?
Baby Dance Club is a 30 minute dance class for your little ones with the support of a grown up.
Our classes are an introduction to music, movement, song, and dance for little ones ages 6 months to 3 years old. The focus of our classes is to be engaging, fun, and to encourage learning in a playful, imaginative, and creative way. Our classes require parents/caregivers to be involved in the classes too. This is designed to build community and joy for adult participants whilst connecting with babies through dance. We allocate 30 minutes after your class for you to chat, mingle, and enjoy a coffee with each other.
We have separated Baby Dance Club into 2 age groups; Bubs and Toddler. Our Bubs Class is for little ones aged 6 months – 18 months (prior to walking). Our Toddler Class is for little ones aged 18 months – 3 years (able to walk).
Why Baby Dance Club?
Baby Dance Club has multiple benefits for you and your little one:
Physical fitness and development
Improved mental and emotional health
Socialisation and awareness of others
Improved cognitive development
Learning and coordination
If you would like to find out more about our classes, get in contact today. To enrol your child, click on registration and follow the prompts.


In the bustling city of Mississauga, nestled amidst the urban landscape, a hidden gem offers a taste of the tropics. The aroma of exotic fruits and the promise of relaxation draw cannabis enthusiasts to a discreet location—the premier dispensary that has become synonymous with quality and diversity.
Exploring Banana Cane Haze: A Flavorful Encounter
Banana Cane Haze, a strain that has gained popularity for its distinctive flavors and effects, takes center stage at this haze dispensary Mississauga. Enthusiasts seeking a break from the ordinary find solace in the tropical notes that waft from this unique strain. The blend of banana and haze creates a harmonious symphony that tantalizes the taste buds and transports consumers to a mental oasis.
As customers enter the dispensary, the air is filled with the sweet scent of ripe bananas, creating an inviting ambiance that sets the tone for a memorable experience. The knowledgeable staff, passionate about their craft, guide patrons through the selection process, ensuring each customer finds the perfect match for their preferences.
A Symphony of Flavors Unleashed
Banana Cane Haze, known for its sativa-dominant profile, delivers a cerebral high that invigorates the mind and uplifts the spirit. The strain’s tropical lineage is evident in its luscious green buds, reminiscent of banana leaves swaying in the warm breeze of a Caribbean afternoon.
Customers who have enjoyed indulging in Banana Cane Haze rave about its smooth smoke and the burst of tropical flavors on their palate. The essence of banana subtly intertwines with the earthy undertones of haze, creating a delicious cocktail that beckons users to savor every inhale.
Mississauga’s Oasis: The Haze Dispensary Experience
The dispensary, revered by locals, is not just a place to purchase cannabis; it’s an immersive experience that caters to the senses. The ambiance, carefully curated to complement the tropical theme, invites patrons to escape the ordinary and embark on a journey of relaxation and euphoria.
As patrons explore the diverse offerings, banana cane strain emerges as a standout choice for those seeking a taste of the tropics. The knowledgeable budtenders, passionate about sharing the wonders of cannabis, provide insights into the strain’s origin and effects, elevating the purchasing experience to a level of education and enjoyment.
Community and Connection: Haze Dispensary’s Impact
Beyond providing a haven for cannabis enthusiasts, the dispensary fosters community and connection. Regular events, such as themed nights and educational workshops, unite patrons, creating a space for shared experiences and camaraderie.
Banana Cane Haze is a unifying force, bonding enthusiasts over their love for this tropical delight. Conversations flow freely as patrons share stories of relaxation and creativity sparked by the strain, creating a sense of belonging beyond the dispensary’s walls.
In Conclusion: A Tropical Haven in the Heart of Mississauga
Mississauga’s premier dispensary, with its focus on quality and diversity, has become synonymous with the unique and exotic experience of Banana Cane Haze. As patrons enter this tropical haven, they are greeted by the sweet scent of ripe bananas, a prelude to the flavorful encounter that awaits them.
For those seeking an escape from the ordinary, a visit to this dispensary is more than a transaction; it’s a journey into the heart of the tropics, where the allure of Banana Cane Haze transports patrons to a mental oasis. As the popularity of this strain continues to soar, the dispensary remains a beacon for those searching for a taste of the tropics in the heart of Mississauga.


- This event has passed.
Angel Riders’ February Chapter Meeting and Ride (Borrego Springs)
February 3 @ 10:00 AM - February 19 @ 4:00 PM PST
Local CMA chapter, Angel Riders 1301, are having their monthly chapter meeting on February 19th at Richie’s Diner in Temecula. Encouraged fellowship/breakfast at 8:00am. Meeting from 9:00-10:00am. Chapter ride to Borrego Springs after meeting adjourns. All motorcycle enthusiasts are welcome to attend the meeting (including children).


Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one Revolution Dojo's core martial arts. The program is head by Jeff Messina, Black Belt under Rodrigo Medeiros (5th degree black belt under Carlson Gracie Sr.). Whether you’re looking to do mma, sport jiu-jitsu or just for self defense, Jeff is qualified to teach jiu-jitsu correctly in a professional atmosphere. We train both gi and no gi. Also in jiu-jitsu we train judo and wrestling.
Easily the most competitive ground fighting system, BJJ addresses every situation that takes place on the ground. A Jiu-jitsu player possesses the skills to execute takedowns and reversals, to hold position, to apply submission hold ( a submission hold isolates and applies pressure to an extremity like an arm, leg or the neck, and can result in serious ligament/tendon damage or breaking of the joint), and to escape submission holds. BJJ is a must for those looking to be complete. Brazilian Jiu-jitsu is an intense workout that helps build muscular endurance, flexibility and respiratory conditioning.
In the mid-1800’s in Japan, there were a large number of styles (”ryu”) of jiu-jitsu (sometimes spelled “jujitsu”). Techniques varied between ryu, but generally included all manner of unarmed combat (strikes, throws, locks, chokes, wrestling, etc.) and occasionally some weapons training. One young but skilled master of a number of jiu-jitsu styles, Jigoro Kano, founded his own ryu and created the martial art Judo (aka Kano-ryu jiu-jitsu) in the 1880’s. One of Kano’s primary insights was to include full-power practice against resisting, competent opponents, rather than solely rely on the partner practice that was much more common at the time. One of Kano’s students was Mitsuo Maeda, who was also known as Count Koma (”Count of Combat”). Maeda emigrated to Brazil in 1914.
He was helped a great deal by the Brazilian politician Gastao Gracie, whose father George Gracie had emigrated to Brazil himself from Scotland. In gratitude for the assistance, Maeda taught jiu-jitsu to Gastao’s son Carlos Gracie. Carlos in turn taught his brothers Osvaldo, Gasto Jr., Jorge, and Helio. In 1925, Carlos and his brothers opened their first jiu-jitsu academy, and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu was born in Brazil. At this point, the base of techniques in BJJ was similar to those in Kano’s Judo academy in Japan. As the years progressed, however, the brothers (notably Carlos and Helio) and their students refined their art via brutal no-rules fights, both in public challenges and on the street. Particularly notable was their willingness to fight outside of weight categories, permitting a skilled small fighter to attempt to defeat a much larger opponent. They began to concentrate more and more on submission ground fighting, especially utilizing the guard position. This allowed a weaker man to defend against a stronger one, bide his time, and eventually emerge victorious.
In the 1970’s, the undisputed jiu-jitsu champion in Brazil was Rolls Gracie. He had taken the techniques of jiu-jitsu to a new level. Although he was not a large man, his ability to apply leverage using all of his limbs was unprecedented. At this time the techniques of the open guard and its variants (spider guard, butterfly guard) became a part of BJJ. Rolls also developed the first point system for jiu-jitsu only competition. The competitions required wearing a gi, awarded points (but not total victories) for throws and takedowns, and awarded other points for achieving different ground positions (such as passing an opponent’s guard). After Rolls’ death in a hang-gliding accident, Rickson Gracie became the undisputed (and undefeated!) champion, a legend throughout Brazil and much of the world. He has been the exemplar of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu technique for the last two decades, since the early 1980’s, in both jiu-jitsu competition and no-rules MMA competition.
Jiu-jitsu techniques have continued to evolve as the art is constantly tested in both arenas. For example, in the 1990’s Roberto “Gordo” Correa, a BJJ black belt, injured one of his knees, and to protect his leg he spent a lot of practice time in the half-guard position. When he returned to high-level jiu-jitsu competition, he had the best half-guard technique in the world. A position that had been thought of as a temporary stopping point, or perhaps a defensive-only position, suddenly acquired a new complexity that rapidly spread throughout the art. In the early 1990’s, Rorion Gracie moved from Brazil to Los Angeles. He wished to show the world how well the Gracie art of jiu-jitsu worked.
In Brazil, no-rules Mixed Martial Art (MMA) contests (known as “vale tudo”) had been popular since Carlos Gracie first opened his academy in 1925, but in the world at large most martial arts competition was internal to a single style, using the specialized rules of that style’s practice. Rorion and Art Davie conceived of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. This was a series of pay-per-view television events in the United States that began in 1993. They pitted experts of different martial arts styles against each other in an environment with very few rules, in an attempt to see what techniques “really worked” when put under pressure. Rorion also entered his brother Royce Gracie, an expert in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, as one of the contestants. Royce dominated the first years of the UFC against all comers, amassing eleven victories with no fighting losses. At one event he defeated four different fighters in one night. This, from a fighter that was smaller than most of the others (at 170 lbs, in an event with no weight classes), looked thin and scrawny, and used techniques that most observers, even experienced martial artists, didn’t understand.
In hindsight, much of Royce’s success was due to the fact that he understood very well (and had trained to defend against) the techniques that his opponents would use, whereas they often had no idea what he was doing to them. In addition, the ground fighting strategy and techniques of BJJ are among the most sophisticated in the world. Besides the immediate impact of an explosion of interest in BJJ across the world (particularly in the US and Japan), the lasting impact of Royce’s early UFC dominance is that almost every successful MMA fighter now includes BJJ as a significant portion of their training.
We offer BJJ classes that can fit into your schedule. If you need to train early we offer morning BJJ clasess. Maybe you need to come during your lunch break you can join our noon class. If you like to train after work we offer evening classes. Our Houston and Katy locations both have weights and showers for your convenience. Whatever your routine is you can find a BJJ class to fit. Check out our schedule for more information.


The 2008 Jeep Wrangler X 4X4 is a rugged and versatile off-road vehicle that combines iconic Jeep styling with impressive off-road capabilities. It is a compact off road SUV designed to tackle various terrains and provide a thrilling driving experience. Under the hood, the 2008 Wrangler X 4X4 is equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering 202 horsepower and 237 lb-ft of torque. It comes paired with a manual transmission. The four-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and allows for seamless transitions between different driving modes. The Wrangler X 4X4 is built for off-road enthusiasts, featuring solid front and rear axles, high ground clearance, and heavy-duty suspension. It boasts impressive off-road capabilities, with the ability to tackle steep inclines, crawl over rocks, and ford through water thanks to its water-resistant interior and high air intake position. Overall, the 2008 Jeep Wrangler X 4X4 is a capable and iconic off-road vehicle that provides a thrilling driving experience and the freedom to explore various terrains. Its rugged design, impressive off-road capabilities, and classic Jeep styling make it a popular choice among adventure enthusiasts. This Wrangler is beautiful inside and out! It has an incredibly low odometer at 68k miles and no accidents and three previous owners. It has been in South Carolina and Florida its whole life - no rust.
20 Service Records; 3.8L V6 Engine; 4X4; Manual Transmission; X Edition; 68k Miles; Soft Top; Power Steering; Tilt Wheel; AM/FM CD/MP3; Satellite; Passive sentry key; Dual Front Airbags; Passenger Sensor; Active Belts; Retractable Roof Panel


Q: Do I need to be in shape to join?
A: NO, you do not! Our mission here at Progressive Martial Arts is to get you into top physical shape in a safe and progressive fashion. New students enter through our trial introductory lesson, where instructors assess your physical fitness strengths and needs. They, then recommend a course that would best fit your needs. Our Foundations Program is designed with the beginner student in mind, where the classes are meant to build you up, not break you down. It is never too late to start learning the martial arts. It is perfect for men and women in their 30?s, 40?s, 50?s and up! And it’s never to early to start either! We start kids as young as 3 years old, with a curriculum that is age specific. Our training environment is friendly and motivating so you can learn at your own pace. Whether you are a beginner or a competitive athlete tuning up for your next fight, we have training programs for you.
Q: Is the training safe?
A: With over 20 years in the industry, we have learned to create a safe learning environment while at the same time producing effective results. We teach with the students safety in mind and their protection is our highest priority. The school is equipped with professionally matted floors that absorb shock and impact and our advanced students use the highest quality equipment when sparring.
Q: What does the introductory lesson involve?
A: It is okay to be nervous before doing anything new. But, there is absolutely no need to be when coming in for your free introductory lesson. The introductory lesson is a great opportunity for you to learn exactly how our programs can help you achieve your martial arts and fitness goals in a hands-on environment. There is absolutely no pressure to perform at a certain fitness or technical level. One of our top instructors will guide you through a 30 minute lesson on the basics of Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, and Mixed Martial Arts in an easy-to-understand and fun way. About 99% of our new students have absolutely NO background in martial arts, so all of our introductory lessons are designed to build up your martial arts and fitness levels from the ground up. We will get you to work up a light sweat through exercises at your own pace, so please bring athletic apparel or any other gear you may be comfortable working out in. We will have everything else that you will need for your first lesson at Progressive Martial Arts, so beyond that just bring an open mind and ANY questions about our programs and we’ll supply the rest!
Q: How long will it take to get results?
A: We understand that people want to get quick results. Within the first few classes, you will start to feel more confident. Our no-nonsense approach to training and application of the combative martial arts allows you to attain TOTAL FITNESS and TOTAL SELF-DEFENSE in a smart, safe, yet training in an intensive environment, which enables you to reach your personal goals.
In the first month we guarantee you:
Increased strength and stamina
Better balance and body awareness
Stress reduction and increased levels of relaxation
In the first six months guarantee you:
Improved reflexes and coordination
Increased energy level
Improved appearance and muscle tone
Improved concentration, work and study habits
In the first year we guarantee you:
Increased self-confidence and positive attitude
Greater self-discipline and a “can do” attitude
The knowledge that you are able to protect yourself and your loved ones should a life-threatening situation arise.
Better health and longevity
Q: What should I bring to my free introductory lesson?
A: Just bring comfortable work out clothes like shorts and a t-shirt. Please avoid zippers and buttons if possible. Everything else you will need we will supply for you during the intro class. If you’d like to enroll in one of our programs afterward, you may do so with a check or any major credit card. So, come on in, we’ll be expecting you. Just let the person at the desk know you are there for your free intro lesson.
Q: Why should I train at Progressive Martial Arts as opposed to somewhere else?
A: We understand that there are many martial arts schools out there to choose from. Our programs and reputation speak for themselves. Here are a few reasons why we think we stand above the competition.
We have the experience. We have taught thousands of students since we were established in 1995.
We have the most cutting-edge curriculum with complete programs in Jeet Kune Do, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Mixed Martial Arts, and the Filipino Martial Arts.
We are affiliated with the top martial arts organizations in the world. Our certifications and affiliations are earned through hard work and dedication. We did not buy into a franchise or affiliation membership for rapid recognition.
We have top notch instructors. Our instructors are of the highest level in the arts that they teach. Not only that, they are continually improving and training.
We offer the most classes anywhere in the area and are open 7 days a week.
We have the best equipped and most professional facility in the area.
Our environment is friendly and welcoming.
We have an elite staff that is not only professional, but courteous and friendly.
But don’t take it from us, read our testimonial page for what our students have to say. And try is for yourself by signing up for our FREE trial class. Call us at (718) 461-0700 or click here to request an appointment.


My son Edward, a composer, sent me a cryptic note:
Great article about two of my favorite things…. music and Vin Scully.
The article is about the Dodgers’ legendary announcer. Professors at USC’s music school studied why Scully’s lines were so memorable, why so many people remember them verbatim. I’ll hope you watch the video embedded in the article and see why those lines work so well. But, a spoiler: music.
Not surprising, really. A wordless tune is appealing to us in many ways, one of the most important being cadence. Songs lay words over melody and cadence, and a great prose passage pays attention to cadence.
I’ve always thought that great story tellers lean heavily on cadence … we almost hear the music as they speak. A good reason to read one’s work aloud.
When a luthier is making the top of an acoustic guitar, he or she is faced with a delicate balancing act: the spruce used for good tops is thin, 1/8” or less. And the tone of the instrument depends on putting enormous tension on this fragile sheet. The top needs support, but too much support deadens tone. The solution: scalloped bracing. The luthier adds braces, then finally shaves away as much as possible, leaving just enough to keep the instrument from collapsing.
So, your point, John?
Rewrite is similar, and it helps me to use the model of the luthier. The first draft is the rough top, braces in the right places (plot elements, characterization and so on). The rewrite scallops the braces, usually removing unnecessary wood so the story can ring true.
I guess it’s possible to torture this simile too much, but the thought helps me through the minutiae – those gentle passes of the draw knife over the brace that give the guitar – and the story – its voice.


The Nano-X ND8 HD Green Multi-Coated Waterproof German Optics Schott B270 CPL Filter is a 58mm filter that adds a solid neutral density to the effect of a circular polarizer. When in use, this filter's 8x filter factor provides a 3-stop exposure reduction, darkening the entire image, allowing photographs to be made with a wider aperture or slower shutter speed than normally required. By slowing your exposure time or increasing the aperture, depth of field may be more finely controlled and movement more easily conveyed. Simultaneously, this filter can help reduce reflections and glare by filtering out light that has become polarized due to reflection from a nonmetallic surface. The light from the sun becomes partially polarized by reflecting off electrons in the air, causing light to scatter into what appears as haze. A polarizing filter arranges and filters this directionally polarized light perpendicularly to the reflected light, allowing for the absorption of much of this light. This results in a noticeable reduction in glare and reflections from nonmetallic surfaces and an increase in the saturation of skies and foliage. The combination of these two functions makes this an essential filter for landscape photography.


Olympus is a global leader in precision technology. Olympus digital cameras and optical solutions help capture life’s precious moments.
Passionate about expanding the boundaries of product design and functionality, Olympus empowers consumers and professionals alike with innovative digital cameras, lenses, audio recorders, and binoculars – opening up new possibilities with precision optics and groundbreaking technologies.
support, expand, grow
Despite already being a household name in the world of photography, Olympus had the vision to support, expand, and grow with prospective and existing customers from all across Europe.
They wanted to find a digital solution that would allow them to bring people together to share their love of photography, feel inspired, and get support when needed.
The digital solution couldn’t just be any portal or forum.
It would need to include features that would allow them to build and increase brand loyalty in a controlled and measurable way. It would also need to be built on a robust platform capable of handling thousands of users, integrate seamlessly with existing IT networks and support requirements, and grow with ever evolving consumer and business needs.
After extensive research and due diligence, Olympus selected Verint Community.
Verint is a leader in customer engagement solutions and technology. The extensible platform, along with its superior features and its history of innovation and continuous improvement, made Verint Community the premier choice.
Unlike other vendors, a key perk in selecting Verint Community was that engagement and loyalty features and functionality come out-of-the-box.
This enabled Olympus to launch with a strong arsenal of community tools, and helped them avoid larger costs further down the line.
With a clear vision and strategy, Olympus and Verint set off to create MyOlympus, a community where members can share photos, compete in contests and get tips on the latest photography techniques.
For MyOlympus to effectively make an impact and drive loyalty, the chosen platform needed to include some key features and considerations, including:
Support company and user-generated content
Customising via REST interface available and integrated widget development
Email notification and subscription functionalities
Mobile-first approach, responsive layout available
“Digest,” “points,” and “badges” functionality
Olympus launched MyOlympus, ultimately achieving its vision of bringing together the people who share a common passion for photography and Olympus products.
MyOlympus now helps them to engage with the brand and with other community members in new and personalised ways. The community also empowers members to discover new ideas, get inspired, participate in challenges, register products, and get self-service support when needed.
Olympus understood building a thriving community is an ongoing process.
They understood it requires continual observation, improvements and upgrades to satisfy the community members’ evolving needs. After a successful launch, the company wanted to find a long-term partner to help deliver additional services, provide unique member experiences, and drive its community strategy forward.
To ensure maximum functionality, stability, and optimum user experiences while tackling ongoing advancements, Olympus chose 4 Roads to handle the project due to its extensive experience with Verint Community.
4 Roads began by upgrading MyOlympus to the latest version of Verint Community to introduce improvements to user experience, functionality, and bug resolution. This upgrade then opened the door for MyOlympus to begin utilising more advanced Verint Community features.
This was an extremely complex Verint project. It was essential for us that we worked with a highly experienced delivery partner who could take a holistic view of the project.
We didn’t just need technical expertise, we needed a partner who could also deliver community strategy and advise on content and design. This made 4 Roads the ideal partner for us.
Ana Maria Albert
With the initial upgrade complete, members saw immediate UX improvements, with feedback praising updates like the added transparency on service request status, the ability to download repair reports and more intuitive logging forms.
However, an ambition to provide members with the best customer experiences and increase brand loyalty meant the next evolution of MyOlympus required 4 Roads to develop custom plugins to expand on the core functionality. This is a key benefit of Verint’s Community platform.
With other community platforms on the market, there can be a glass ceiling on what you can achieve. However, this is where Verint Community excels. It’s built for extensibility and allowed Olympus and 4 Roads to create experiences that are as unique as the brand itself. Upgrades included:
How it turned out
Today, MyOlympus is a truly thriving community, and continues to grow thanks to the extensive nature of Verint Community.
With more than 410,000 members across Europe and 230,000 photos shared, the upgraded MyOlympus community allows Olympus to:
Reaffirm their position as market leaders
Inspire & encourage new customers
Create stronger brand loyalty
Enhance their customer experience
Improve customer-to-customer support
Engage customers with competitions
Encourage more brand ambassadors
Members in Europe
monthly page views
monthly contest submissions
Photos shared in the community
In collaboration with Verint and 4 Roads, Olympus made its vision come to life, creating one of the most thriving digital support and engagement communities.
MyOlympus continues to be a catalyst for growth, delivering loyalty-building experiences. It has also become a key component in their long-term customer success strategy, helping Olympus continue in its mission of empowering customers and opening up new possibilities for those who share a love of photography.
“Updated design, functionality, and streamlined processes make a big difference to user experience and member retention. We knew this would be challenging, but we were confident that with close collaboration with the 4 Roads team it would be a success.”


Our Kindergarteners recently visited the art room for a special Square 1 Art project. I look forward to this special project every year because it’s my first time working with our Kindergarten artists. For this project, students used line, shape, pattern and color to create a heart shape masterpiece! It was so much fun using vivid translucent watercolors over our crayon patterns and seeing them resist. I loved our time together exploring materials, talking, and creating art.
Here is a sneak peak at our first art adventure together.
I loved getting to meet and work with Toll Gate’s youngest artists. They brought so much color and creativity to the art room. I’m looking forward to continuing our creative journey together in first grade. Your child’s personalized packet and free stickers should be arriving home next week!
Thank you Ms. Schlette and Ms. Seery for sharing your creative Kindergarteners with me. : )


Golf is a game that requires precision, skill and technique. It is a game that can take years to master and requires a lot of practice. However, not everyone has the time or the resources to spend on regular golf lessons or trips to the golf course. This is where a golf simulator comes in. A golf simulator is a device that allows you to play golf indoors, using a virtual reality simulation. In this article, we will discuss why you need to buy a golf simulator and the benefits that come with owning one.
One of the main reasons to buy a golf simulator is convenience. With a golf simulator, you can play golf anytime you want, regardless of the weather conditions outside. You do not have to worry about booking tee times or traveling to the golf course. All you need is a small space in your home, such as a garage or spare room, to set up the simulator. This means that you can practice your swing and work on your game, even on days when you would not be able to play golf otherwise.
Another reason to buy a golf simulator is cost-effectiveness. Golf is an expensive sport and the cost of playing a round of golf can add up quickly. However, with a golf simulator, you can play as much as you want, without having to pay for green fees or cart rentals. This means that you can save a lot of money in the long run, while still enjoying the game of golf.
Improve Your Game
A golf simulator can also help you improve your game. With a simulator, you can work on your swing, practice your shots and learn how to read the course. You can also track your progress and see how you are improving over time. This means that you can work on your weaknesses and become a better golfer, without having to leave your home.
Play Any Course
With a golf simulator, you can also play any course in the world. Golf Simulators for sale come with a variety of virtual courses, from famous courses like Pebble Beach and Augusta National, to local courses in your area. This means that you can play the courses you have always dreamed of playing, without having to travel to those destinations.
A golf simulator is also a great source of entertainment. You can invite friends and family over to play a round of golf or even host a golf tournament. This can be a fun way to spend time with loved ones, while also enjoying the game of golf. Golf simulators also come with a variety of game modes, such as target practice and mini-games which can be a fun way to mix up your golfing experience.
Golf simulators can also be a great way to stay active and fit. While golf may not seem like a strenuous activity, it does require a lot of physical activity, such as walking and swinging. With a golf simulator, you can get the same physical benefits of playing golf, without having to leave your home. This can be a great way to stay in shape, especially during the colder months when it may be difficult to stay active outdoors.
Finally, golf simulators can be customized to fit your needs and preferences. You can choose the type of simulator that works best for you, whether it is a full simulator with a golf course and swing analyzer or a more basic simulator that focuses on swing analysis. You can also choose the type of equipment you want to use, such as golf clubs and balls and even the type of flooring you want to use.


REGGAE FEVER / Daniel Tuffs talk on Shaolin Sounds, dubplates & vinyls / 01.11.23.
This time we talked to Daniel Tuffs, one of the biggest young reggae enthusiasts active on the scene and the man behind Shaolin Sounds, an independent record label from Norwich, which produces vinyl exclusives in very limited editions for sound system selectors and collectors.
Most of those releases remain in the analog world, so now we will play for the first time just a few dubplates that they recently released (more about the „dubplate“ phenomenon in our episode #105). We will also listen to a few songs from 4 general editions that are more accessible to a wider audience, especially the songs from the new Jojo Gladdy LP album, that we see in the picture.
In addition, Daniel is one of the most active „researchers“ of old reggae music. Many previously undiscovered reggae tapes can be found and unearthed on the channels of this house, which is a real privilege for all reggae connoisseurs.


A program that allows you to convert between an unwrapped 3d LUT that can be used in game engines and a 3d LUT that is compatible with image and video editing software. It also allows you to visualise your LUTs and allows you to decide whether you would like to interpolate from a lower resolution lut. Support for more formats will be added in future versions!
Windows portable exe: LUT Converter v0.1 (LUTConverter.exe, 10.1 MB)
Universal ZIP: LUT Converter v0.1 (LUTConverter.zip, 9.84 MB)


eBay's Musical Instruments category is the home for novice, advanced and professional musicians alike. Whatever your musical taste or your band's sound, eBay's Musical Instruments category is the place to buy and sell music gear. Future rockers can build a band from scratch - from DJ gear and lighting systems to instruments and traveling equipment! Find guitar amps, rack gear, electronic keyboards and piano keyboards, multi-track recorders, banjos, bass, and cases. Looking for a guitar? Whether its an acoustic guitar or an electric guitar, eBay has the top brands at the best prices - Fender, Gibson, Martin, Ibanez, Washburn, Music Man, Paul Reed Smith, Ovation, Takamine or Yamaha. eBay also has top brands in Pro Audio: Alesis, Mackie, American DJ, Shure, JBL, Technis, Yamaha, Peavey, Tascam, NuMark and others. Perhaps you prefer Brass instruments - eBay has tubas, trumpets, French horns and more. Perhaps its percussion: we have bells, cymbals, drums and tambourines
. If its woodwinds - eBay has bagpipes, oboes, clarinets, flutes, saxophones and more. If you prefer to DJ and mix, eBay has DJ gear, turntables, drum machines, and electronic samplers
. Just learning to play? eBay has a huge variety of sheet music, song books, instructional books, instructional CDs / DVDs, and wholesale lots. Whatever your skill level or interest, eBay's Musical Instruments categories is the ideal location to buy and sell music gear - we make it easy to upgrade your equipment and improve your sound!


Ready to relax, rejuvinate and heal?
This Spring Healing Series is a contribution-based Saturday series for the general public to access alternative healing. Our longterm intention is to make Reiki and Meditation available for everyone regardless of their financial situation.
Participants will receive a reiki treatment from our volunteer certified practitioners and sit for group meditation circle.
Reiki is a Japanese healing modality for stress reduction and relaxation that promotes mindfulness and resilience.
Treatments activate the body's self-healing response through the light touch of Reiki practitioners' hands. In addition to improving overall health and well-being, people turn to Reiki when coping with life’s stresses as well as for support during health and emotional challenges and medical treatments. Reiki is not a cure for medical disease or a substitute for medical care.
Meditation is about empowering and healing from within. Practicing meditation cultivates focus, acceptance and wellbeing. Meditation teaches us to relax into the present moment, cope with stress, and release tension. Our mediation workshop facilitators will guide you in meditation through methods for visualization, and awareness of body, breath and emotion.
There is limited space for the Reiki sessions, please register in advance. With your Reiki session registration you are permitted full access to the meditation circle. You may also choose to just join meditation practice. We will also take Meditation registration on a walk in basis, stay for the full two hours, as long or short as you'd like.
Suggested Sliding Scale Contribution:
$10-25 to support the establishment of the Create QuanYin not-for-profit holistic learning center. *No one will be turned away for being low on funds-that is not our way!*
Reiki is For Everyone:
This opportunity may be appropriate for minors of middle school age and up. If you would like to register an adolescent please call or email first. We will need written consent from a parent for any minors wishing to participate in the this Spring Healing Series Reiki Clinic.
By Email: firstname.lastname@example.org
By Phone: (914) 281-1744
Online: Select Date, press search, select a time and book! If the time slot is sold out it will say: "The following items had a problem during checkout"...just pick another time!
WALK INS: Please call day of for availability :) Free parking on site.


This is a Harry Potter discussion list for people who would like to talk primarily about the HP books - film discussion is welcome, but is secondary to the actual novels. HP_Intellectual advocates discussion that avoids shipping wars (feel free to share who you ship for, but please do not make it an issue) and other such topics that often appear in Harry Potter discussions. We like to talk about characters, plot, theories, and the basic story - think of this as a safe-haven from some of the rabidness found in the rest of the fandom.
As it is, we love having new members with fresh voices and new thoughts! Please join if you'd like to participate in our discussions!
What will not be tolerated is newbie-esque behavior such as.. "OMG, I <3 RUPERT GRINT, I'M GONNA MARRY HIM! 4EVA!" or things like that. Please do not start shipping wars - no one wants to read about HARRY/WHOMEVER FOREVER. Also, please watch your "snarkiness" level - try not to snap at other members or starts fights because people have differing opinions. After all, different opinions make for good discussions! And, of course, please.. no flaming.
Please, PLEASE do not join if you "heart" the movies but have not read the books. That is Harry Potter blasphemy. :)
Moderator posts: These are posts all members need to read, as they regard the running of the list, news, etc. If you see a subject line with "Moderator post:" in it, please make sure you read it.
Discussion topics: If you're posting a thread for discussion, just post! No limitations, nothing to worry about. Just post your question or topic and away you go! The only thing to remember about discussions is this: please no flaming. If things start to go downhill or someone complains, then the discussion on that thread will be halted. In the worse case scenario, the post will be deleted.
Art and Fiction: If you really want to cross-post your art or fiction, you can - but remember that this community is not intended for fanfic/art discussions, so don't pop on over and ask everyone for advice on how to best write your story or whatnot. If you're going to cross-post fiction or art, just make sure to post a RATING so that members know what they're looking at.
Also, for all of you out there who haven't introduced yourselves, here's the best way to do it!
When you're introducing yourself to the list, there's a quick survey to fill out, so just copy and paste it into your first post.
Name/Nickname: Favorite Book of the Series and Why: What attracted you to this community?: What do you enjoy most about the Series?: How did you discover the series?: Favorite Book Outside of the Series: Favorite HP Characters and why: Anything else you want to share:
After filling it out, share with us anything else you would like us to know about you! You are not required to post on this list, but it would be great to hear from you. :) Introducing yourself doesn't require you to be incredibly active. However, before you can comment (even once) on discussion threads, you need to introduce yourself so we know who you are.
ATTN New Members! Please remember to add HP_Intellectual to your friends list so that you'll see the posts on this community!


Live Cooking Demonstration with Cook and Registered Dietitian!
Date: Wednesday, March 29, 2023
Time: 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Location: Northern Nevada Sierra Medical Center
625 Innovation Drive, Reno, Nevada, 89511
Join us as we celebrate National Nutrition Month with a free, live cooking demonstration!
Northern Nevada Sierra Medical Center’s cook and our registered dietitian, Olivia, will teach participants how to create a flavorful and healthy recipe. Learn cooking tips, how to blend your favorite seasonings for any protein and enjoy dinner on us.
Dinner is complimentary and an RSVP is required.
RSVP no later than March 22 at 8 a.m. Registration is limited to the first 50 people.
*Complimentary dinner includes salmon, vegetable, starch and refreshments
Northern Nevada Sierra Medical Center is located at 625 Innovation Drive at the corner of Double R Blvd and Longley Lane.
Questions? Contact [email protected]


The Chevrolet Corvette: an American icon of performance and style. Unleash the primal power of the Corvette, a symphony of speed and style that bends the very fabric of reality! Behind the wheel, experience the exhilarating power of its V8 engine and precise handling. With its iconic design, the premium materials, the attention to detail—all converge to create an ambiance that’s out of this world. The Corvette is more than a car; it’s a masterpiece of automotive art.
Book the Corvette to embrace the thrill of speed and be part of a legendary tradition. Buckle up and experience the extraordinary!


If you're debating on buying a piece of ruby jewelry it could be handy to know the difference between a ruby and a garnet. The two gemstones are rich in the color of red and can appear quite similar if you're not aware of the different characteristics each gemstone has. Obviously, there are some notable differences since the value of rubies are substantially higher than garnet, so let's dive into it.
Ruby Vs. Garnet
The typical technique used to identify a ruby from a garnet is to simply analyze the color of it. Now, I know this may seem pretty obvious but it's important to know this because the color difference is noticeably visible for most rubies vs. garnets. The hue, or color, of a ruby is usually a light to medium red (as you can see in the picture on the left) whereas the color of a garnet is typically a darker red with some hints of burgundy and maroon. This isn't the case for all rubies however as they can also have a darker tint of red which could lead to some possible confusion.
Even though rubies can have a darker tint to them, much like a garnet, they will always have
a clearer clarity and stronger light refraction opposed to a garnet. If you were to hold a ruby under a light and examine the the light patterns that reflect off the ruby you will notice a rainbow appear with numerous shades of red and blue whereas a garnet will give off a rainbow with various shades of yellow and green.
To add to that; a ruby is a double refractive stone opposed to a garnet being a singly refractive stone. Now what this basically means is that when holding the ruby under the light and moving it around you'll eventually notice that the rainbow will almost be blurred, this is because the double refractive stone, in this case the ruby, will give off two rainbows that will look like they are right above or below each other. Whereas a garnet will give off a simple, more clear yellow-green rainbow.
Lab Grown Rubies
Lab grown rubies may even be a safer bet when purchasing a ruby. These rubies are known to be of higher quality than those that are mined and hold the same physical, chemical and optical make-up and lowering the risk of being screwed over of some sort.
If you wish to browse some lab grown ruby pieces (up to 90% off) that we offer here at GloLabs, click here.