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1) An introduction containing dating for the beginning of Ezekiel's ministry. 1:1-3.
a) The book begins with a typical introductory formula – "and it came to pass."
i) The formula is typical of narrative, but introduces only the books of Joshua, Judges, Ruth, Samuel, Esther, and Jonah.
ii) It focuses attention on the date and circumstances surrounding Ezekiel's call.
b) The meaning of the 30th year is unclear.
i) It may refer to the time elapsed since the beginning of the exile, but this does not fit in well with the chronology in the remainder of the book.
ii) The rabbinic interpretation was that it referred to the time elapsed since the last observance of the Year of Jubilee, which was observed after seven sabbatical years (Lev. 25:8-17).
iii) It may refer to the 30th year since the discovery of the law by Hilkiah the priest. (622 BC.)
iv) It may refer to Ezekiel's age at the time of his call.
(1) Some reject this because it is not the normal manner of dating prophetic writing; well known historical evens are more common. See, Isa. 1:1; 6:1. But see, Gen. 7:6, 11.
(2) The 30th year would be significant to a man with priestly connections. Numbers 4:3, 23, 30, 39. It is also the year that Christ entered upon his public ministry. Luke 3:23.
(3) The year was also the fifth year of the exile of King Jehoiachin.
(a) This was a crucial time in the history of Judah.
(b) Inhabitants in both Jerusalem and Babylon taught that the captivity was only short-term, and they plotted against Babylon to restore independence to Israel.
(c) Both Ezekiel and Jeremiah warned that the exile would be much longer and that Jerusalem would be destroyed, not restored.
c) Ezekiel was a captive by the River Chebar.
i) No man is a captive unless he chooses to be.
ii) The Cheber was a man-made canal used for irrigation.
(1) It brought water from the Euphrates for irrigation.
(2) Excavations at Babylon have revealed evidence of Jewish settlements along such a canal.
d) There Ezekiel saw the heavens opened and saw visions of God.
i) While this was a special vision, one of the mark's of God's people is that they are able to see the invisible. Heb. 11:27; 2 Cor. 4:18.
ii) Ezekiel was able to lift his eyes above the miseries of exile and see visions of God.
e) It was at this time and in this place that God called Ezekiel.
i) The word of the Lord came (Heb. justifies "indeed came").
(1) The emphatic marks a point of absolute beginning.
(2) Ezekiel the priest became Ezekiel the prophet of God.
(3) Those who declare today that God has spoken to them do not have Ezekiel's credentials.
ii) The hand of the Lord was upon him.
(1) This expression occurs seven times in Ezekiel (3:14, 22; 8:1; 33:22; 37:1; 40:1) and suggests a state of divine possession in which the prophet received his supernatural revelation – he was a man seized by God.
(2) It may also denote the divine compulsion of the call of God upon Ezekiel.
2) A vision of the glory of God providing the necessary context for Ezekiel's call. 1:4-28.
a) Related comments.
i) Israel became a theocracy at Mt. Sinai. Ex. 19:1-8.
ii) It became a theocratic state in the days of Samuel. 1 Sam. 8:4-22.
iii) During its history an exclusive nationalism developed that viewed God as absolutely tied to Israel.
(1) Jonah rejected the idea of preaching to foreigners, and fled Israel to get away from God. Jonah 1:3.
(2) Ezekiel and the exiles had been removed from Israel, leading them to conclude that in some sense they had been removed from the Lord's presence.
iv) So where was God?
(1) If he was in Israel, how could he allow foreign armies to occupy the land?
(2) If the occupation was allowed to stand, it would mean that the gods of Babylon were greater than the God of Israel.
(3) Thus, the exiles could not believe that the exile would be long.
(4) Ezekiel declared Jehovah to be God of the whole world, that he cared for his people, and that he was with them even in exile.
(5) Ezekiel declared Jehovah to be free to use whomever he chose, including pagan kings (cf. Isa. 45:1; Hab. 1:5-11), to accomplish his purposes.
b) Five elements of the vision of the glory of God.
i) The Windstorm. 1:4.
(1) When Ezekiel saw God, the revelation came in a great thunderstorm. (cf. Job 38:1; 40:6; Ps. 29:3-5; 1 Kgs 19:11-13.)
(2) The display of nature captured Ezekiel's attention as the burning bush captured Moses' attention. (Ex. 3:1-5.)
(a) In the wilderness God led the Hebrews by a pillar of fire and a pillar of cloud. (Ex. 13:17-22.)
(b) When God came down on Sinai, he came in lightning, smoke, and fire. (Ex. 19:16-18.)
(c) God is characterized as a consuming fire. (Deut. 4:24; Heb. 12:28-29.)
(d) Fire not only represented the presence of God, but it also was a symbol of the refining and purifying elements of judgment (e.g., Mal. 3:1-6).
(3) The captives had lost their sense of the awe and majesty of Jehovah, so Jehovah presented himself to the prophet in power, majesty, and holiness so that Ezekiel could sense God's character as he communicated his message to the captives.
(a) The storm was immense – not only large, but intense.
(b) It came from the north.
(i) God is the God of the north.
(ii) It was from the north that the invasion and destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonian army would come. (cf. Jer. 1:14.)
ii) The four living creatures. 1:5-14.
(1) The four living creatures emerged from the storm as Ezekiel watched. (They return in 10:5 and 10:20 where they are called "cherubim.")
(a) The cherubim were appointed to guard the holiness of God.
(b) Their mission was to prevent anything unholy from coming into the presence of God.
(c) They were indicators of the presence of God in the storm.
(i) Most familiar with them as guardians of Eden to prevent the reentry of sinful humanity. (Gen. 3:22-24.)
(ii) Their likeness was embroidered on the curtain of the tabernacle to guard the holy of holies against unauthorized entry. (Ex. 26:31.)
(iii) Within the holy of holies, their likeness stood atop the ark of the covenant, and they affirmed God's presence there. (Ex. 25:18-22.)
(2) This passage lists ten characteristics of the cherubim.
(a) They had the form or appearance of a man. (1:5.)
(i) They were not human. (1:6-7.)
(ii) Their human qualities reminded that humans are the crown of God's creative work (Gen. 1:26-28) and the central focus of his creation (Gen. 2:8-25).
(b) They had four faces, one on each side (1:8), that are described in detail (1:10).
(i) Each face represented the highest form of life in a general category – lion, undomesticated animals; ox, domesticated animals; eagle, winged creatures; human, the crown of God' creation that exercised dominion over the rest of God's creation (Gen. 1:28).
(ii) These creatures show God as the Lord of all of his creation.
(c) They had straight legs (1:7) with feet like a calf.
(i) "Straight" apparently means unjointed; the feet were rounded for easy turning (?).
(ii) This characteristic may suggest stability in the performance of God's will.
(d) They had hands like a human under their wings (1:8).
(i) Each of the four wings touched those of the creature next to it.
(ii) The wings of the creatures in the holy of holies also touched (1:11; cf. Kgs. 6:27).
(iii) Each was related closely to his neighbor and united as one in performing assigned tasks.
(e) They went straight when they moved (1:9, 12).
(i) Since there was a face in any direction, they went straight in whichever direction they moved.
(ii) This suggests a sense of purpose, commitment, and availability for assignments.
(f) They had four wings each (1:11; cf. 1:8).
(i) Two were extended up to support the throne and/or in praise to God (these two touched the wings of each neighboring creature (cf. 1:8, 23)).
(ii) The other two were used to cover the body, a sign of humility and modesty.
(iii) Isa. 6:2 and Rev. 4:1-11 describe the creatures with six wings.
1. The additional two wings were used to shield the face of the creatures from the face of God.
2. One commentator suggested that Ezekiel's creatures did not need the additional wings since they were under the platform (1:22) and looked straight ahead (1:9), thus being unable to see the face of God.
(g) They followed the "spirit" in their movement. (1:12, 20.)
(i) This refers to the divine spirit of the one who sat on the throne above them and who directed and enabled their movements.
(ii) The cherubim were divinely appointed and empowered to do the will and work of God.
(h) They appeared like burnished bronze (1:7) and coals of fire or torches (1:13).
(i) This characteristic, mentioned again in 10:7, was associated with a theophany.
(ii) The brightness of their appearance suggests their close relation and proximity to Jehovah.
(iii) The skin of Moses' face was radiant with light after having been in the presence of God. (Ex. 34:29-35.)
(i) They moved as quickly as a flash of lightning (1:14), Suggesting instantaneous action that resulted in immediate implementation of God's will.
(j) Their wings made an awesome sound (1:23-25) like rushing waters.
(i) To Ezekiel this was like the voice of God.
(ii) This further confirms that this was a theophany.
iii) The wheels. 1:15-21.
(1) Associated with each cherubim there were wheels described more in terms of function than of construction.
(2) They were described as the lowest part of the chariot-throne and sat on the ground beneath the cherubim (1:15).
(3) Their appearance was like chrysolite (perhaps topaz or other semi-precious stone).
(4) Each wheel was actually two in one, with one apparently set inside the other at right angles, permitting movement in any direction.
(5) The wheels had outer rims had an outer edge that was inset with eyes (1:18).
(6) The wheels gave mobility to the chariot-throne of God.
(a) When the cherubim moved, the wheels moved, activated by the spirit.
(b) 1:21 is a recap of 1:19-20 and forms a conclusion to the section, emphasizing the unity and coordination between the cherubim, the wheels, the spirit, and the throne-chariot.
(7) The mobility of the wheels represents God's omnipresence; the eyes represent his omniscience; the elevated position represent his omnipotence.
iv) The platform. 1:22-27.
(1) The "expanse" (1:22) is the same word used in Gen. 1:6 to describe the creation of the heavens.
(2) Here it refers to some kind of platform above the cherubim; it's appearance was like ice and it supported God's throne.
(3) Under the platform, the wings of the cherubim produced a sound like that of a rushing river like the voice of God (1:24).
(4) Parallel to that sound, the voice of God came from above the firmament. (See Rev. 1:15.)
(5) Positioned on the platform was a throne that appeared like sapphire.
(a) The vision was similar to that of Moses and the 70 elders. (Ex. 24:10.)
(b) The throne is mentioned again in Ezek. 10:1.
(6) Upon the throne was a figure like that of a man whose appearance was like fire described in other theophanies. (See Ex. 3:2-15; 24:17; Rev. 4:1-5.)
(7) This vision portrays two important concepts about God that his people seemed to have neglected, if not forgotten.
(a) He is a God of splendor and great power.
(b) His is not bound to the land of Israel.
(8) God came to Ezekiel and thus to his people in their exile and reminded them of his holiness and power as the Lord of creation.
(a) They were not overlooked; they were not forgotten.
(b) As terrifying as the vision was, it had a redemptive function – God uses and permits crises to draw people to him.
v) The prophet's response. 1:28.
(1) When people are consumed by insurmountable problems and buffeted by the storms of life, they usually do not need another perspective on their problems, they need a new perspective on God as Lord of life and larger than all difficulties.
(a) Humanity in peril needs a sense of the majesty of God.
(b) There needs to be an awareness that God is greater than adversity, that he is with his people in the midst of their problems.
(c) This was the need of both Ezekiel and his hearers – they needed a new vision of and commitment to the holiness and majesty of God.
(d) This need was met in the first revelation of God in the call of Ezekiel to be a prophet to the exiles.
(2) The cherubim, as protectors of God's holiness, were a reminder that humankind was sinful.
(a) People often want to blame God for the storms of life and forget that human sin brought chaos into the world.
(b) The only hope for humanity is to recognize God in the midst of the storms as the one who can restore the calm. (See Luke 8:22-25.)
(3) Ezekiel fell on his face when he saw the vision of God. (See Isa. 6:1-9.)
(a) Ezekiel may have wondered who could speak for God to such a people in such a place.
(b) The answer came in his call.
(4) The opening vision of Ezekiel affirmed three significant truths about God that are summarized in 1:28.
(a) It reaffirmed the nature of God as holy, powerful, and majestic.
(b) It reaffirmed in the rainbow God's promise-making and promise-keeping character. (Gen. 9:16.)
(c) It reaffirmed that nothing, including geographic location, separated one from God (cf. Rom. 8:38-39.)
(5) Through this vision Ezekiel received a message of hope.
(a) God was still at work among the exiles.
(b) This meant that he knew about them and was concerned about their plight.
(c) People need a vision of hope, but such hope is always dependent on a willing response and a humble, repentant attitude.
3) The call itself, with specific directives. 2:1-3:15.
a) The prophet's mission. 2:1-7.
i) God uses the designation "son of man" 93 times to address Ezekiel, and never calls him by his name.
(1) The expression "son of" could mean "having the characteristics of," as in "son of a night" (Jonah 4:10) and "son of peace" (Luke 10:6).
(2) "Son of man," then, can mean "member of humanity."
(3) But characteristic of humanity, and perhaps the focus in its use in Ezekiel, is frailty and mortality, in contrast to the eternality and awesome majesty of God (cf. 31:14).
(a) While used in Num. 23:19 as an equivalent to "man," the focus is on human unreliability.
(b) In Job 25:6 it is associated with "maggot" and "worm."
(c) It describes man's apparent insignificance in Ps. 8:4.
(4) But in Ps. 80:17 the reference is to the Davidic dynasty as God's appointed agent on the throne of Israel; it would be through him that God would renew his favor toward his people.
(5) In addition to a reminder of his dependence upon God, it may also have reminded him of his responsibility as God's watchman and messenger of redemption.
(6) The same phrase was used of the messianic figure in Dan. 7:13 who appeared before the Ancient of Days and of Daniel himself in Dan. 8:17.
(7) It was often used in the N.T. about Jesus himself (see Matt. 8:20; 9:6; 11:19; Mark 2:28).
(8) Thus, one may conclude that when "son of man" is used of an individual who is spoken of as Jehovah's agent, it points to humankind created royal, restored to a regal position, and called to serve as Jehovah's human representative on behalf of human beings.
ii) Ezekiel's response to the vision was to fall prostrate in an act of worship and reverence (v. 28).
(1) God commanded him to stand to receive his call and commission (compare Dan. 10:11), indicating his acceptance of Ezekiel and his intention to call him to service.
(2) The Spirit entered Ezekiel enabling him to speak God's message with authority, confidence and courage.
iii) Ezekiel was sent to the Israelites, including those captive in Babylon and those in the homeland, and to the rebellious nations (2:3-5).
(1) God also described the character of those to whom Ezekiel was sent.
(a) Rebellious.
(b) Transgressors.
(c) Impudent or obstinate.
(d) Stubborn or stiff hearted.
(2) Ezekiel was encouraged at the beginning of his mission not to fear opposition. 2:6-7.
(a) His hearers were described as briers, thorns, and scorpions.
(b) He was not responsible for their lack of receptivity; success was measured by his faithfulness to his charge.
b) The prophet's motivation. 2:8 – 3:3.
i) How could one be motivated for a ministry that would be rejected, for a mission that was bound to fail?
ii) Ezekiel was instructed to indicate his obedience by eating what God offered to him.
(1) When it was unrolled, Ezekiel saw that it was written on both sides.
(a) May indicate the fullness of coming judgment.
(b) May suggest that there was no room for Ezekiel to add personal opinion; his message was to be God's alone.
(2) Three words were used to describe the contents of the scroll – lament, mourning, and woe.
(a) Lament – funeral song written in specific meter and sung in time of bereavement.
(b) Mourning – words and moans uttered by bereaved family or professional mourners upon death of loved one.
(c) Woe – exclamation of distress over great loss of any kind.
(3) Ezekiel was to assimilate the message and proclaim its contents.
(4) He would proclaim good news as well, but he did not need to be warned about that.
(a) The part of the mission that he might like to avoid was the proclamation of bad news.
(b) Faithfulness demands that God's whole message be delivered. (See Acts 20:27.)
iii) Ezekiel was commanded four times to eat the scroll, and then to go and preach God's message.
(1) The message originated with God; it was not discovered by logic or deduction but through divine revelation.
(2) When eaten, it was sweet to the taste. (3:2-3.)
c) The prophet's divine preparation. 3:4-11.
i) Israel was the primary recipient of Ezekiel's message.
(1) Even the message that Ezekiel was to deliver to the "nations" centered on the relationship of those countries to Israel and especially atrocities committed against Israel.
(2) Ezekiel was sent to the people of Judah who spoke his language but whose decadence had surpassed that of the foreign nations (v. 6; 5:6-12; 16:47-52).
ii) Rejection of Ezekiel's mission and message was not so much a rejection of Ezekiel as a renunciation of God – the people refused to listen to Ezekiel because he spoke God's message. (3:7.)
(1) This was similar to the rejection of Samuel's leadership. (1 Sam. 8:4-7.)
(2) Ezekiel's hearers are here described as being of a "hard forehead" and a "stiff heart."
(a) The hardness of Pharaoh's heart is given many times as the reason for his disobedience. (Ex. chs 7 – 10.)
(b) The use of that term to describe Israel was a serious indictment. (cf. 2 Chron. 36:13; Prov. 28:14.)
iii) Opposition was pictured as coming from people with hardened faces. (3:8-9).
(1) This implied a hardened will set against the word and will of God.
(2) God responded by promising the prophet that he would harden the forehead of Ezekiel so that it was like flint.
(3) Ezekiel was assured of divine protection in his mission.
iv) Ezekiel was instructed to listen with his ears and receive with his heart all that God said. (3:10-11.)
(1) This implies a continuous relationship in which Ezekiel was to keep on listening as God kept on speaking.
(2) Listening was not confined to the call, but was to characterize Ezekiel all through his ministry.
d) The conclusion of the call. 3:12-15.
i) Ezekiel was lifted by the Spirit (v. 12).
ii) As he was lifted he heard the sound of the creatures' wings and the movement of the wheels, suggesting the movement of the chariot throne and the end of the vision. (v. 13.)
iii) The Spirit took Ezekiel to his place among the captives by the River Chebar at Tel Abib. (v. 15.)
(1) The name means city of ears.
(2) Its location is uncertain, but it is modern Tel Aviv.
iv) Ezekiel was in great distress (v. 14), and he sat among the people seven days (v. 15).
4) Ezekiel's appointment as a "watchman," affirming his personal responsibility. 3:16-21.
a) Seven day periods were common in Israel.
i) Mourning for the dead continued seven days. (Gen. 50:10; Num. 19:11.)
ii) Seven days was the time of consecration for a priest. (Lev. 8:1-33.)
b) When seven days had lapsed, God appeared and began giving Ezekiel the message that he was to deliver.
i) Ezekiel had been told that he was to deliver divine words (2:4, 7; 3:4, 11), but he had not been given those words.
ii) Here, "the word of the Lord came" to Ezekiel.
(1) This is the first use of that phrase.
(2) Used in some 41 verses, it was to characterize Ezekiel's ministry.
(3) It is found elsewhere in the OT only in Jeremiah (9 times) and Zechariah (2 times).
c) Ezekiel was told that he was sent as a watchman to Israel (v. 17).
i) Although the concept is mentioned elsewhere (Isa. 21:6; 52:8; 62:6; Jer. 6:17; Hab. 2:1), only here are the duties of a watchman defined.
(1) The safety of the entire population rested with the watchman.
(2) If a watchman failed in his duty, he would be held personally responsible for any loss.
ii) Ezekiel was God's watchman appointed to warn Judah and Jerusalem of impending destruction.
(1) He was to warn the wicked of their sin and of impending judgment (v. 18).
(2) The responsibility of the wicked was then upon them; it would be upon the prophet if he refused or failed to warn (vv. 19-21).
5) The reaction of the prophet. 3:22-27.
a) The hand of the Lord was on the prophet, suggesting receipt of a vision experience (v. 22).
i) This was a logical extension of his commission as a watchman.
ii) He went to the plain to receive further instruction. (Compare with Paul's sojourn in the desert. Gal. 1:16-17.)
iii) When Ezekiel moved to the plain, he once more encountered the glory of the Lord's presence, and, as before, he fell on his face. (v. 23.)
b) Ezekiel was given three restrictions.
i) He was to shut himself in a house. (v. 24.)
ii) He was to be bound with ropes to insure his seclusion. V. 25.)
iii) He was to be unable to speak. (cf. Job 29:10; Ps. 137:6.)
(1) He was to be silent except when the Lord enabled him to speak.
(2) Further instructions in ch. 24:25-27 may indicate that the silence would last until the fall of Jerusalem (about six years).
(3) The silence actually ended when "He that was escaped came" (33:22).
c) The call closed with what was a favorite saying of Jesus, "He that heareth let him hear; and he that forebeareth, let him forebear." (See Matt. 13:10-17.)
d) As the nation faced days of judgment, their needs could not be met by offering a new perspective on their problems; what they needed was a new perspective on God.
i) The call of Ezekiel provided that new perspective by reinforcing the holiness and majesty of God.
ii) Ezekiel was able to share that viewpoint with the certainty of judgment.
You Must Hear the Gospel
Romans 10:17
You must hear the gospel and then understand and recognize that you are lost without Jesus Christ no matter who you are and no matter what your background is. The Bible tells us that "all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23) Before you can be saved, you must understand that you are lost and that the only way to be saved is by obedience to the gospel of Jesus Christ. (2 Thessalonians 1:8) Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." (John 14:6) "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:12) "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." (Romans 10:17)
You Must Believe
Hebrews 11:6
You must believe and have faith in God because "without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." (Hebrews 11:6) But neither belief alone nor faith alone is sufficient to save. (James 2:19; James 2:24; Matthew 7:21)
You Must Repent
Acts 3:19
You must repent of your sins. (Acts 3:19) But repentance alone is not enough. The so-called "Sinner's Prayer" that you hear so much about today from denominational preachers does not appear anywhere in the Bible. Indeed, nowhere in the Bible was anyone ever told to pray the "Sinner's Prayer" to be saved. By contrast, there are numerous examples showing that prayer alone does not save. Saul, for example, prayed following his meeting with Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:11), but Saul was still in his sins when Ananias met him three days later (Acts 22:16). Cornelius prayed to God always, and yet there was something else he needed to do to be saved (Acts 10:2, 6, 33, 48). If prayer alone did not save Saul or Cornelius, prayer alone will not save you. You must obey the gospel. (2 Thess. 1:8)
You Must Confess
Romans 10:9
You must confess that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. (Romans 10:9-10) Note that you do NOT need to make Jesus "Lord of your life." Why? Because Jesus is already Lord of your life whether or not you have obeyed his gospel. Indeed, we obey him, not to make him Lord, but because he already is Lord. (Acts 2:36) Also, no one in the Bible was ever told to just "accept Jesus as your personal savior." We must confess that Jesus is the Son of God, but, as with faith and repentance, confession alone does not save. (Matthew 7:21)
You Must Be Baptized
Acts 2:38
Having believed, repented, and confessed that Jesus is the Son of God, you must be baptized for the remission of your sins. (Acts 2:38) It is at this point (and not before) that your sins are forgiven. (Acts 22:16) It is impossible to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ without teaching the absolute necessity of baptism for salvation. (Acts 8:35-36; Romans 6:3-4; 1 Peter 3:21) Anyone who responds to the question in Acts 2:37 with an answer that contradicts Acts 2:38 is NOT proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ!
You Must Be Faithful Unto Death
Revelation 2:10
Once you are saved, God adds you to his church and writes your name in the Book of Life. (Acts 2:47; Philippians 4:3) To continue in God's grace, you must continue to serve God faithfully until death. Unless they remain faithful, those who are in God's grace will fall from grace, and those whose names are in the Book of Life will have their names blotted out of that book. (Revelation 2:10; Revelation 3:5; Galatians 5:4)


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If you're working with an Sylvan Lake personal trainer, you've already made the commitment to get your workout program on track to best results and are dedicated to taking your body to new heights. As you continue on with your sessions with your Sylvan Lake personal trainer, it's also important to consider what supplements you may be able to use that will help you move your progress just a little bit further.
One supplement that's very popular among many who work with an Sylvan Lake personal trainer is creatine. This supplement promises to help you work harder during your workout session so you can build muscle faster and help reduce the chances that fatigue stands in your way.
Understanding some of the key questions you need to ask yourself about whether creatine is right for you will allow you to make an informed decision regarding the use of this supplement.
Let's have a quick look at the main points to consider.
Are You Involved In Strength Training?
The very first question to ask yourself when trying to determine if creatine is right for you is whether you're involved with a strength training workout program. If your Sylvan Lake personal trainer just has you doing a variety of bodyweight and cardio training activities, you won't be depleting your creatine stores quite as quickly as you would if you were performing intense weight lifting sessions.
For this reason, the demand for creatine supplementation may be lower, therefore you could possibly get away without it.
If, on the other hand you are performing hour long workout sessions in the gym and lifting heavy weights, you will definitely notice some clear benefits from adding creatine to the mix.
You'll fatigue less and be able to push out more total reps per set than you otherwise would.
What Are Your Primary Goals?
The second question to ask yourself is what your goals are. Are you looking to really improve your strength levels and generate as much lean muscle as possible or are you just looking to improve your overall health?
Those who are really committed to trying to achieve good strength gains from their sessions with their Sylvan Lake personal trainer will benefit slightly more from creatine as this is a strength building supplement.
While anyone doing weight lifting activity can use it, if you're not pushing your workouts to the max, you may not be depleting your natural stores as much.
Are You On A Low Carb Diet?
Finally, the last question to ask yourself is whether you're using a low carb diet plan. The drawback to using creatine on low carb diets is that creatine is best absorbed into the muscle cells when paired with carbohydrates, so if you're really cutting out those carbs, it may not be quite as effective.
For this reason you may consider waiting until you are using a more mixed diet approach to start the supplement so you receive the best benefits from it.
This doesn't mean you can't use creatine if you're on a low carb diet, you still definitely can, but just keep in mind the absorption rate won't be quite the same.
So if you are looking to increase the intensity of your workouts and develop some muscle mass while enhancing your strength, definitely give creatine some consideration. Paired with your personal training in Sylvan Lake sessions you will definitely notice some benefits.

subset: commoncrawl


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Queen Letizia's Green Silk Dress Is 30 Percent Off At Bloomingdale's Right Now
When it comes to cold-weather dressing, it's no surprise to see a flurry of black dresses, gray sweaters, and neutral wool coats. But just because it's gloomy outside, doesn't mean your outfit has to be. Queen Letizia's green silk dress is the striking pop of color your winter wardrobe is lacking, as well as the perfect layering piece to make a statement this season.
Queen Letizia was photographed while attending an event at the Hotel Auditórium in Madrid, Spain on Thurs. The Spanish monarch wore a green silk midi dress by Sandro featuring a playful print, a pleated skirt, and a subtly plunging neckline. She accessorized with a simple pair of pointed black pumps by Prada, a matching Nina Ricci clutch, and dangling earrings.
As for hair, Letizia sported a glossy blowout, drawing attention to her rich brown color with golden-toned highlights. Opting for elevated, daytime glam, the Queen donned bronzy skin, smoky brown eyeshadow, and a neutral pink lip.
Although she's royalty, it seems that even the Queen can't resist a good sale. The paisley-print midi dress usually retails for over $500, but Bloomingdale's has dropped the price by 30 percent. If you're looking to embody queen-worthy style without a royally high price tag, you're going to want to shop this piece ASAP.
Queen Letizia knows just how to find pieces that are as reasonably priced as they are sophisticatedly stylish. In fact, she's been known to frequent affordable brands like ASOS, Mango, and Steve Madden, pairing budget-conscious pieces with high-end designer items.
A silky dress in a lively color may not seem like a winter necessity, but when styled accordingly, it can upgrade even your most over-worn staples. Throw on a black wool coat, sheer tights, and patent leather pumps for an exciting take on work attire. If you're looking to make a statement at your next cocktail event, try wearing a silky green midi underneath a cozy faux fur, or even a leather jacket for an edgier look.
Ahead, shop Queen Letizia's exact Sandro piece along with The Zoe Report's selection of silk green dresses.
Shop The Look
Save $154 when you buy this luxurious midi on sale at Bloomingdale's. Style it like Queen Letizia with a simple pair of pumps, a sleek black clutch, and a voluminous blow out.
The animal-print trend is in full force, and for good reason. Take it up a notch with this green tiger-striped dress featuring a ruffled hem, a high neck, and an open back.
You'll love the romantic silhouette on this flowing long-sleeve dress, perfect for strappy stilettos, ankle boots, or even sneakers.
A shorter dress provides the ultimate opportunity to show off a pair of knee-high boots.


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Got a
second third opinion on the bathroom- and it was $1800 cheaper than the original quote…
Now, maybe the third plumber is a hack who will ruin our plumbing, forcing us to bathe in the backyard with a hose. And maybe the first plumber will give us the bathroom of our dreams, AND will come back weekly to clean it. That would probably explain the difference in price. Now, I know you get what you pay for, but I think we're going to take our chances with the garden-hose plumber.
This weekend: Going to look at shower walls & faucets. May (or may not) get the grass mowed. And, if I'm not too tired, get the new kitchen light up. Whee….Good times.


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Prepping the Soil
Activate and defend a Flameward.
The Arch Druid has tasked me with setting up a series of flamewards around the perimeter of the area. Once these are active, we can prevent further attacks from the fire elementals that left this valley in ruins.
These will also protect and nourish the soil for whatever Hamuul has planned.
It's time to begin. Find one of the five flamewards I've marked on your map, activate it, and defend it from counterattack until its magic kicks in. It won't take more than a minute.
You will be able to choose one appropriate item for your class from the following rewards:
|Helm of the Mendicant
|Flameward Cloak
|Kindleprotector Staff
You will also receive:
- 250 reputation with Guardians of Hyjal


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There really isn't just about anything straightforward or uncomplicated concerning moving in Silver Triangle, despite whether you're moving to a brand-new area in Los Angeles or even clear across the country to see exactly what Los Angeles has to offer.
Not only do you have to very delicately pack up all of your prized belongings and organize them intelligently so that you can unpack just as fast, but then you have to handle a lot of heavy lifting to get your boxes into a moving truck and then safely to your new home or office.
It's enough to make anyone go nuts, which is why so many people consider moving to be the most stressful things they do in their lives.
Thankfully though, when you decide to hire the greatest movers Los Angeles has to offer (US!) – legitimate professional movers, really experienced movers that are going to be to assist you without you ever having to lift a single finger on your own if you aren't up for it – you get to eliminate all of that anxiety, all of that headache, and all of that hassle from your life completely.
Still on the fence about moving forward with the top movers Los Angeles has to offer?
Movers possess the mastered skill-sets from several years of moving as well with practical experience to assist you. Considering that these professionals are literally compensated with entirety of the job; these professionals will certainly be there from beginning to end as well as certainly not be leaving prior to the relocation is without a doubt finished. Thus it remains in their best interest so as to see in which the project is definitely not just done well, but marvelously well and is entirely completed. Leaving the moving concerning your professional moving company to Silver Triangle moving services is actually a fantastic solution for decreasing your stress and anxiety when moving. There is no having to check you have indeed found every thing given that these types of expert movers have your very best interest in mind. This enables you to revel in your new home or apartment as well as leave behind the stress and headache of moving to the specialists.
Moving, as you might well know can absolutely be really stress filled. Part of the burden pertaining to moving is literally having to arrange all the many things that you will need and also ways to get all of them done.The items consist of: boxes, furniture dollies, hand carts, packing materials, furniture coverings. In addition to the materials you will must move, the majority of people do not necessarily own box truck in order to help move them meaning that will most likely should be chartered as well. Through working with a experienced company you no longer will need to become a whiz-bang planner. Movers provide all the equipment and items which you will certainly need to have for your move, also including the truck whereby in order to move each of your things to your new house or even apt. All things will definitely be simply carried out for you by having the moving companies, therefore you will certainly not have to manage most of the stress which comes with moving.
Exactly why call a qualified professional? Well, the explanation is in their title, "Skilled Professional". These people are literally men and women that move many people's possessions each day. This being explained they have certainly experienced all sorts of situations moving things coming from one home or apartment to the next. Regardless if it be coming from challenging to move home appliances, custom object of arts, up or down stairs, or maybe even huge possessions; our movers at LA Movers Co. have seen it all. As a result of these professionals do this everyday our staff members can answer pretty much any inquiries or considerations you might have, together with get the job done much faster compared to you on your own. In addition, you will save time and energy which is best used with respect to identifying precisely how best to position and decorate your new house or apartment or condo. An added in advantage is undoubtedly that you are really not worn out from all the moving which you are not going to have to do by hiring a pro moving company.
Hiring a qualified professional moving company is able to save you lots of precious time. Lets face it; moving costs not only money and yet time as well. Anytime moving you will likely invest countless hours thoroughly packing your personal belongings, in addition to organizing boxes so in order to have an idea what boxes hold which possessions for emptying immediately after your arrive at your new place. There certainly are really no two ways about this it is time consuming. Therefore by means of hiring an offical moving company in Silver Triangle, La to either move you across town, out of town as well as across the nation you can save loads of time simply by permitting the moving company which you hire pack your things for you. Given that these experts can totally load and unpack your whole home or apartment or condo.
You may feel that "doing it yourself" might be the most optimal kind of savings when you are moving. On the flip side, most people do probably not consider not only the amount of your time in which it takes to move, but at the same time the amount of funds in which it can take to move. A large number of aspects which men and women do not think about is: you need to rent a box truck to move, gas along with trip costs, boxes, vulnerable objects containers as well as safety measures, an additional team of hands furthermore a good back for moving the cumbrous belongings, paid time off from work so as to move: therefore missed pay in many cases. These are just a couple of the expenditures as soon as considering the DO-IT-YOURSELF moving elements. Along with having movers move your home or even apartment or condo, you are merely looking at paying a single standard rates. The skilled professional movers undertake all the heavy lifting, hauling things down the stairways, putting things inside the truck. When you work with a whole service mover within Silver Triangle these guys will definitely in fact, help you pack, move and after that unpack your items.
Looking at that pro movers are regularly moving items from one apartment to another, or from one home to another; these individuals have a fair bit of practical experience moving your furnishings as well as delicate and breakable items. Considering that such they are without a doubt much less than likely to destroy your items. Furthermore these professionals have much lower rate of injury as they are continually putting their bodies under the strenuous requirement each day and their bodies have become used to the demanding task. Lots of folks anytime attempting to move or carry huge items oftentimes injury themselves: this particularly arises even more during moving considering that you are usually moving several large objects within you house or apartment. Therefore, spare yourself the difficulty and well-being of your body and enlist the services of our professional moving team.
In the event that you have probably ever before moved before then you are going to comprehend that attempting to have all the proper boxes as well as furniture pieces in the appropriate place when a move can possibly be discouraging. With things getting off loaded from a truck in order to making it definitely it is without a doubt not merely labeled right, however, gets to the correct room. Packaging as well as moving might be as compared to attempting to assemble a 5,000 piece puzzle. Packaging, labeling, fitting all types of the boxes grouped all together therefore they keep organized; after that attempting to make sure they reach the appropriate room whenever they get off the truck. This stuff is usually precisely what is actually all entailed whenever moving and coordinating your home or apartment. By choosing a moving company for your move you will get to keep clear of almost all this inconvenience. No need to fret about mismatched boxes, lifting, loading as well as unloading all the boxes. This is without a doubt simply because you got a crew. Our movers will certainly guarantee that pretty much every furniture piece finds its own right place, and also every single box is in its own corresponding room.
It could be that you have already moved before on the other hand you are actually here on our page seeking to employ the services of a moving company for the first time; in any case lot of times when you're looking to move on your own can easily require various trips. These types of trips are normally to and fro from the old apartment or house to the new one. Whether it is literally across the street, across town, state or even country, these trips take a lot of your time as well as tie up your schedule. By simply employing a expert company you save not only your quality time, but atthe same time your sanity. Moves can be a serious stress and anxiety factor even more so when you are actually will have to travel to and fro from one location to the next. Moving companies are without a doubt tasked with making the trips back and forth and not actually you. There purpose is to make your move as easy and hassle free as possible. In this way you can do the things that you do and have the movers do their job.
This is among the main and is certainly not the very least is quite crucial to the moving process. Moving Services come with all the right equipment. Your skilled professional mover is going to utilize hoisting straps, two wheel, four wheel or appliance dollies, ramps and custom built trucks with air ride buffers to transfer your belongings in a safe as well as secure manner. Therefore no matter if it is possibly moving an L-shaped couch outside of your doorway or maybe dismantling your furniture, your hired band of help are going to figure it all out for you.
Moving any kind of furniture can certainly not only be truly very difficult, but additionally dangerous even more so when moving as well as lifting large furniture for example,: love seats, freezer or fridges, wine coolers, washing and drying machines, recliner chairs and also a whole lot more. Assuming that you do not take some protections in order to make sure your safety regarding for yourself whenever moving oftentimes the furniture pieces or even hefty appliances you could turn out injuring yourself. The good news is whenever enlisting the services of a Moving Services within Silver Triangle you will not have to stress over any accident such as any kind of pulled or over used muscles as you can easily give it to the experts to move your items to your next home. Doing this additionally eliminates the possibility of you yourself destroying a wall, risking ripping a love seat or even getting any type of sort of physical stress.
Enlisting the services of a qualified moving company gives awesome market value on a day in which could be normally incredibly stress-filled. Moving can be both emotionally together with physically draining, and also dealing with delicate as well as large possessions with care requires unique moving talents. Our experts really strongly recommend depending on professionals for this, considering that you might concerning much of your households needs which include a plumbing system and electrical power. Among over One Decade of practical experience within local area moving as well as cross country moving, our staffs of incredibly qualified moving companies are able to tackle moves regarding pretty much any overall size as well as complexness. Our experts deal with each and every move with the own personal treatment in which you might probably count on friends and family. Nevertheless, different from loved ones, our company guarantee total satisfaction.
Our experts derive an estimate regarding a local move at a by the hour cost, this includes the driving time for each and every leg pertaining to the move: starting with the moving company to your original home, after that to your desired destination, plus back again to the moving company. Costs when it comes to a cross country relocation is usually based upon a fixed charge, fixed price. After our experts have certainly taken a stock pertaining to your home furnishings along with various other possessions, and established a timeframe for delivery, our staff are happy to provide a binding rate with respect to your move. In the event that you prefer, our company will be able to likewise rate a cross country move by weight.
Moving work represents the large number of the moving financial outlay. Having said that, you need to also budget for packing supplies, for instance moving boxes and also tape, and for extra valuation (moving insurance policy) as needed. Al's really takes particular safety measures together with delicate or even oversized possessions, for instance, flat screen tv sets and even light fixtures. These types of pieces often demand a custom made wooden box, which definitely will acquire an extra fee.
By having well over 50 (combined) years of experience, our sales staff congratulates themselves in offering one of the most detailed moving quotes in the market. Our exclusive sales system guarantees that our people work thoroughly with every individual to completely be aware of his/her moving needs and to provide a moving estimate which matches those needs. Make certain to offer as much relevant information as possible at that time of the estimation - this also includes evaluating the items for accuracy. Forgeting to bring up more items, or troublesome areas of access, at the time of the moving quote often creates unpredicted expenses for you the customer.
As with various other professional service industries, you may well wish to say thank you your movers with respect to a job successfully done by means of providing a gratuity. Even though the movers do not anticipate a set amount, we suggest a tip based upon your total satisfaction with your crew as well as the overall move; with a broad standard of $4-6 for each person, per an hour. In the case that you sense in which your movers went above as well as beyond during their efforts, you may would like to increase the amount as necessary.
Even though #brand: t # will certainly take every necessary safeguard with regards to your move, unanticipated damage can arise but it is vital making sure that your belongings are truly protected. Our experts are able to offer valuation moving insurance plans to our customers at an extremely honest cost due to the quite low number of insurance claims our company submit.
Our staff advise booking your move as far in advance as you are able to. The farther out you can possibly plan your move, the greater the availability you will most likely have in deciding on a date and time in which is really favorable for you. A typical rule of thumb is to consult with us no later than 2 weeks in advance of your wished for move day. Our staff recognize advance preparing is not always feasible, together with do our very best to accommodate last minute customers as well.
Emphasize packing, rather than moving. Smaller sized items and moving boxes can be moved quite promptly by qualified professional movers. Really don't spend time trying to move these things yourself. Rather, pay attention to packing boxes, so when the movers get there, you are definitely 100% ready. To find out more on packing and packing supplies take a look at our blog.
Certainly! #brand: t # offers complete service storing centers as well as our top quality moving services. In case your items do not actually fit inside your new home, however, you are only residing there basically for a limited time period then have plans to transfer to a much larger house or you wish to hang on to the possessions with regards to friend and family, use of our storage space facilities is truly a hassle-free, safe choice. Request your move coordinator with respect to more information about this service.
Consider a practical labeling solution (such as MBR with respect to Master Bedroom) and be sure that all of your boxes are accurately marked. Boxes ought to be labeled on the top along with 3 sides. Your movers are going to work directly along with you over at the location to make assured every thing winds up exactly where you want it.
When the cabinets are normally built from metal or plastic, 2-drawer filing cabinets can be left loaded. The very top pair of drawers for a 4-drawer cabinet have to be normally unloaded. All lateral file cabinets should be entirely emptied. Every one of drawers have to be emptied in wood cabinets.
This is more often than not fine to leave your apparel inside your dresser drawers in the course of the move. See to it to take away everything from the drawers that may possibly roll about or perhaps shift through transport, given that this can surely create damages. In case the dresser is primarily large (a triple dresser or section of a big wardrobe), this is likely best to at minimum somewhat empty this.
You should ensure that your dish washer, microwave oven, fridge, washing machine, as well as dryer are truly empty. Also, movers are really not skilleded electrical contractors or even plumbers - you will need to arrange for the suitable specialist to disconnect your washing machine, lighting/chandeliers, and fridge from any kind of electrical and/or water connectivity. Most important, movers are truly not really certified to disconnect gas, which in turn run many clothing dryers and kitchen ranges.
These sorts of possessions may possibly be carried on nearby moves if adequately packed/prepared, however we may not actually guarantee the safe moving of live plants, that can be traumatized by means of motion or temperature extremes inside the moving truck. Our firm can not transport live plants regarding cross country moves.
#brand: t #, as well as all Licensed Movers, are going to definitely not move dangerous or flammable materials which include propane tanks, firearms, paint, and aerosols, considering that the temp inside the truck could result in these items to burst or even ignite.
When the movers first arrive, these experts are going to undertake a walk through along with you of your current house, verifying which items are going and which are actually not.
In the case that your moving day is quickly approaching plus it ends up being obvious that you will definitely not be entirely packed, it is vital that you notify your move manager as soon as possible. He or she is able to collaborate with you to create the most suitable achievable "plan b" when it comes to packing. This might possibly mean having the movers wrap up your packing or maybe, in the event that you have the flexibility and we have the availability, moving back your moving day in order to allow more time to pack. If you have an only a little quantity of items left to pack, your movers are able to usually accomplish this on moving day; nevertheless, it is very important to be aware of that this will add time to the job and, as a result, increase the complete fee of the move.
Definitely. When our team deliver your items to your new house the movers will definitely work closely alongside you to make sure each of furniture as well as boxes arrive in the right rooms, and also our team are happy to lay out and rearrange the furniture just exactly as you would most likely like it.
With respect to your personal peace of mind, you might want to take into consideration moving jewelry as well as other small treasures yourself in your personal vehicle. As for larger items - for instance, fine art, antiques, musical instruments, specific collections, or even other items of great personal meaning and value - point these items out to your movers at the start of moving day to make sure that these guys can take the needed measures to make certain when it comes to their suitable care.
On moving day, you really should let us the experienced movers take care of the job entirely - these guys are very trained and the absolute best suited to carry the poundage and also work out the loading of the truck. Generally speaking, having non-professionals perform along the side of the movers slows things down and costs you much more in the end. Your friends and family can be most helpful in readying for the move - packing moving boxes alternatively taking care of your household pets or little ones.
Regretfully, there is no secure place inside the moving truck for family pets to travel. They can not be moved within the cab of the moving vehicle for liability reasons and the back of the moving truck is certainly unacceptable as a result of absence of climate control and the risk posed with possible repositioning of substantial objects.
Regrettably, skilled professional moving companies can certainly not transport clients within the moving vehicle for liability factors. You might choose to arrange a ride by using a friend or a taxicab solution on move day.
Yes. Our expert movers and also moving trucks are prepped to move throughout rain, sleet, as well as snow. These people come geared up with supplies to keep your valuables safe from the elements. Nonetheless, in order to keep costs lower, we strongly recommend that you shovel, rake, or otherwise clear away the access ways in preparing for their arrival.
Feel free to contact us using our quote form.
Moving Services Silver Triangle, LA
Moving Services Silver Triangle, LA


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Group Booking Terms and Conditions
Because you are making a Group Booking, there are additional Terms and Conditions that apply. Please read them and click 'I Accept' below to continue with your booking
General Group Booking Terms
By making a group reservation through Hostelworld.com you agree to the following terms and conditions as set by Hostelworld.com and as set by the hostel in question.
- In order to make a group reservation on Hostelworld.com it is necessary to pay a deposit. The balance is due directly to the hostel according to their payment conditions.
- The booking deposit is non-refundable.
- Please note that any cancellations must be notified directly to the hostel at least 24 hours in advance of your scheduled arrival date, unless otherwise stated in the hostel's conditions.
- Hostelworld.com are not responsible for changes or amendments to your reservation once it has been processed. All correspondence with regard to changes to your booking need to be dealt with directly with the hostel.
- Cancellations for reservations must be made directly with the hostel and must conform with the individual hostels cancellation policy (see below)
- It is your responsibility to pay the balance of your accommodation cost to the hostel in accordance with their payment conditions (see below). Failure to do so may result in your reservation being cancelled by the hostel.
- Individual hostels may have special booking conditions relating to group stays, please read the hostel booking conditions carefully before making your reservation.
Hostel Specific Terms & Conditions
The remainder of the amount due will be charged to your credit card 1 week prior to arrival. Should numbers or room selection change, the per person deposit times the number of people who actually travelled will be deducted from the total accommodation charge levvied by the hostel.
Cancellation / No Show & Reduction in Numbers Policy
Group (over 10 pax) cancellation notification within the following time frames will receive the listed refunds.
If we are informed more than 1 week prior to arrival - 90%
1 week -75%
3 - 6 days -50%
Less than 3 days - No Refund
Additional Terms and Conditions
For all groups over 10 pax a security deposit amounting to 10EUR per person will be held until checkout. A room inspection may be required for return of deposit. Any unruly behaviour will not be tolerated and the group may, at our discretion, be evicted should we feel that the behaviour is in any way affecting the comfort of other guests. No refund will be payable should this occur.
The following group types are not accepted by this hostel: Junior / Primary School If you have misrepresented the type of group you are booking for, your booking may be cancelled by the hostel."
Any cancellations resulting from agreement to these terms and conditions under false pretences will result in loss of deposit.
Você deve aceitar os termos e condições para que possamos confirmar sua reserva.
Descrição do estabelecimento
All rooms are ensuite with excellent facilities and amazing views. Each room, whether it be a double, twin, triple has its own seaward balcony which overlooks the pool area, the harbor and the beautiful Aegean.
We are right in the town centre, about 300 meters from the famous Bar Street, 100 meters from the harbor, 5 minutes walk from beautiful Ladies Beach and 2 minutes from Pigeon Island.
Kuadasi is perfectly situated to do some local exploring of ancient and wonderful sites. Ephesus and Holy Marys House is a mere 20 minutes up the road to the north and Priene, Miletus and Didyma to the south. Theres awesome beaches all around and the beautiful Dilek National Park at Gzelamli only 25 minutes away. Why not jump on a ferry and have a look at the famous Greek Island of Samos? It takes an hour and a half to get to and also leads to the rest of the amazing Greek Islands.
Other activities available include daily boat cruises, excellent diving, snorkeling, water skiing, trekking tours, paragliding, jeep safaris, horse safaris, open air markets, outdoor activities and the three leading aqua parks in Turkey, which are the biggest ones in Europe! Verificar Regras da Casa
Verificar disponibilidade
- Acesso gratuito à Internet
- Estacionamento gratuito
- Mapas da cidade gratuítos
- WiFi Gratís
- Ar condicionado
- Caixa de depósito seguro
- Elevador
- Estacionamento
- luz de leitura
- Piscina
- Piscina exterior
- Telefones de cartão
- Terraço ao ar livre
- Troca de livros
- TV a cabo
- Acesso à Internet
- Aluguel de bicicletas
- Câmbio de moeda
- Depósito de bagagens
- Passeios/Informações turísticas
- Recepção 24 horas
- Segurança 24 horas
- Serviço de correios
- Translados do Aeroporto
- Ônibus de traslado
- Bar
- Restaurante
Sessão Expirada
Sessão Expirada
Por favor, digite a senha para a conta <% email %>


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Bathroom Renovations
We specialise in complete bathroom renovations in Lane Cove, Frenchs Forest, Parramatta, Bankstown and other Sydney suburbs. Our commitment is to maintain a personal service of the highest quality for our clients.
Here are some of our projects that we have completed for bathroom renovations and tiling services in the locations mentioned above.


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FX: Pragma unleashes algo traders on NDF market
COPYING AND DISTRIBUTING ARE PROHIBITED WITHOUT PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER: email@example.com
The non-deliverable forward (NDF) market has been among the fastest growing corners of the FX market, as investors looking for yield increasingly turn their attention to emerging market (EM) currencies. Now, with Pragma's algo-trading clients joining the party, liquidity could be set to surge even higher.
Pragma, the multi-asset quantitative trading technology provider, has added NDFs to its algorithmic trading platform, Pragma360.
It allows Pragma's clients to use algos to trade the Brazilian real, Korean won, Indian rupee, Philippine peso, Indonesian rupiah, Malaysian ringgit, Taiwan dollar, Colombian peso and Chilean peso – all frequently traded NDFs.
They can be traded with Pragma's time-weighted average price (TWAP), volume-weighted average price (VWAP), percentage of historical volume (POHV) and strike algorithms.
Among the NDFs included, the real, won and rupee are the most actively traded globally, between them accounting for just under half (49%) of global NDF turnover.
|David Mechner,
Pragma Securities
"This will be increasingly important in light of the upcoming FX global code, which demands greater transparency and best practices in foreign exchange," he says.
The move has been made possible by the increasing migration of trading activity onto electronic channels.
Curtis Pfeiffer, chief business officer at Pragma, says: "NDFs were a natural next step for us. They have the liquidity, and prices are already streamed to clients electronically, so it has been relatively simple incorporating them onto the platform."
NDFs are among the fastest growing parts of the FX markets. According to the Bank for International Settlements' (BIS) 2016 Triennial Central Bank Survey, the NDF market grew by 5.3% between 2013 and 2016, accounting for more than $130 billion of daily currency trading activity.
The numbers are even more notable when it comes to cleared trades.
IHS Markit, an information and analytics provider, says its end-to-end trade processing system, MarkitServ, processed a monthly average of 54,000 cleared NDF agreements year-to-date in 2017, a 920% increase on the same period in 2016. LCH, the clearing house, has cleared an average of approximately $40 billion NDF trades per day in 2017 on ForexClear.
William Black, US head of over-the-counter (OTC) derivatives clearing at Credit Suisse, says: "NDF clearing has seen strong interest as a response to the uncleared margin rules and other market factors." Those rules came into effect in September 2016, encouraging traders to clear more transactions.
Developing market
In April, Credit Suisse cleared its first non-member NDF trade with LCH's ForexClear on behalf of a client, becoming one of the first futures commission merchants to intermediate FX clearing for a non-captive customer.
|Jon Vollemaere, R5FX
Jon Vollemaere, CEO at R5FX, the electronic trading venue for EM FX, says a lot of traders are diversifying into EMs to make up for disappointments elsewhere in their portfolios, explaining the increased interest in NDFs generally.
"Anyone with dropping G10 volume is looking at ways to prop that up a bit," he says. "EM is one way to try to do that."
However, he adds: "[EM FX] is a very different beast and not a simple add on. When we set up R5, we had to build a purpose-built EM platform, with a bespoke central credit and clearing model.
"To really grow EM, we needed something new, so we built a single trading venue that offers all-to-all trading in OTC and prices from different exchanges, and gives clients a choice of whether or not to clear and net."
This might have particular implications for algos, notes Vollemaere.
"In G10 there is an assumption that there is sufficient liquidity to get into and out of a position," he says. "That's not always the case with EM. Also some markets are still mainly voice traded, which limits the use of algos.
"Certain currencies are dominated by a small number of banks and some by exchanges, with liquidity concentrating around certain dates and times. Algos need to take account of all these characteristics."
In addition, EM currencies often suffer particularly aggressive volatility during periods of market stress when investors shun risk and allocate capital to safe-haven currencies, creating a stampede that can ignore underlying market fundamentals.
The dramatic increase of capital to EM FX via NDFs could therefore be storing up a problem if market sentiment shifts suddenly, for example if rising US rates reaches a tipping point and begins sucking capital out of EMs.
Pragma's new functionality is offered primarily to customers who trade FX as an asset class, such as hedge funds. These clients have been using Pragma to trade spot FX – and in theory should be among the most sophisticated market participants, and well prepared for any eventuality should sentiment turn.
It remains to be seen what impact the growing use of algos will have on the NDF market itself, but the evidence from other asset classes is that it could lead to smaller average trade sizes, offset by a higher number of trades overall, and a rise in liquidity overall.
Pragma says NDF trading with its algos could eventually become popular with other types of institutions, such as banks, although that would first require electronic communication networks to offer trading in NDFs.
It is also looking ahead to a time when NDFs could be followed by other FX derivatives products becoming tradable with Pragma's algos.
|Curtis Pfeiffer,
Pragma Securities
Pragma's Pfeiffer says: "The benefits of algorithmic trading will to continue to expand across FX trading. Pragma expects to offer additional FX products, possibly FX options, eventually, but this will take a couple of years."
And Pragma is not the only institution diversifying into NDFs. Hotspot recently indicated it will list NDFs on Hotspot SEF, its swap execution facility (SEF), previously called Javelin, at an unspecified time later this year. This follows its recent filing of a revised rule book with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, setting out new technical details for the Hotspot platform.
Hotspot says it is in the process of on-boarding participants to trade NDFs.
R5's Vollemaere welcomes the market's growing interest in NDFs, exemplified by the developments at Pragma and Hotspot.
"More NDF trading activity is good for the wider market and EM liquidity in general," he says.


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How Much do Braces Cost?
A primary consideration of orthodontic treatment is how much braces cost. There is no explicit answer to this question, as the cost will typically vary for each patient. The cost of braces depends on a few important factors, such as type of braces and duration of treatment. The cost may also vary among different orthodontic practices. Patients who wish to learn more about the cost of braces should schedule an orthodontist consultation for more information.
Cost of Braces
The cost of braces will primarily depend on the type of braces chosen. Traditional metal braces are typically the least expensive form of braces, as they require the least expensive materials. Application and maintenance for traditional braces is standard practice which typically does not require special considerations. Invisible braces such as Invisalign and ceramic braces are more costly than metal braces, primarily due to materials and processes. Lingual braces, which are applied to the back of the teeth instead of the front, are among the most expensive types of braces. This is primarily due to the more complex nature of these braces and the need for special care and maintenance.
The following is a rough guideline of the cost of different types of braces:
- Metal braces: $3,500 – $6,000
- Invisible braces such as Invisalign: $3,500 – $6,000
- Ceramic braces: $4,000 – $6,500
- Lingual braces: $8,000 – $10,000
Orthodontic Insurance
Some dental insurance companies provide coverage for braces. This can help to reduce a patient's out-of-pocket expenses during orthodontic treatment. In some cases, orthodontic insurance coverage provides orthodontic patients with a lifetime maximum amount which remains separate from regular dental insurance. Those whose dental insurance does not cover orthodontic treatment may wish to obtain separate orthodontic insurance to help with the cost of braces.
Financing Braces
Most orthodontists will offer certain options for financing braces. One of the most common ways of financing braces is a monthly payment plan. In many cases, patients will make their first payment at the beginning of treatment, and the remainder of payments for braces are split up to cover the remainder of the cost by the time the treatment is finished.
Orthodontists Fee Plan
Orthodontists Fee Plan (OFP) is a special third party payment plan that can be customized for orthodontic treatments. Through the Orthodontists Fee Plan, patients may be exempt from a down payment. Additionally, monthly payments may be reduced and spread out over a longer period of time than the duration of the braces treatment process. Orthodontists typically share the cost of the loan, which minimizes the finance charges for patients. The Orthodontics Fee Plan is endorsed by the American Association of Orthodontics. Patients should ask their orthodontist whether or not they participate in the Orthodontists Fee Plan.
Dr. Randy Gittess
Randy Gittess graduated from Medical College of Virginia in Richmond to become a Doctor of Dental Sergury and later discovered his passion for orthodontics and went on to specialize in Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia where he received his certificate in orthodontics. Dr. Gittess is also Certified as a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, a special distinction among orthodontists.
Latest posts by Dr. Randy Gittess (see all)
- Health Benefits of Braces – Oviedo, FL - June 22, 2014
- What are Lingual Braces? – Winter Springs Florida - June 22, 2014
- What is Malocclusion of the Teeth? – Winter Springs Florida - June 22, 2014


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|Image Source: http://goo.gl/QfAegK
A few days ago, I sent out an email to my friends, all brilliant CTOs, hoping for their distilled wisdom to a question that I thought amazingly valuable:
What are THE top 5 or 10 questions you would ask a candidate and/or know answer to in a CTO job interview?
My hope was that I could update my CTOWannabe Interview Questions. Here are 10 of my favorites from that list:
- What is it that you monitor or assess to determine your effectiveness in the organization?
- What are your top 3 priorities for what you must do well in the first 100 days of this position to be an effective leader?
- Please describe an issue in the past 12 months that has tested your ethical being?
- Describe yourself in the context of being a reflective leader.
- Describe how you see "technology" in the broader context of the school's core mission of teaching and learning
- What accomplishments are you most proud of and why?
- How do you stay current with technology issues, apps, innovations? How do you stay current with educational research, reforms, etc.?
- How would you direct/handle/deploy a new district wide initiative?
- Discuss how frequently and how comfortable you would be asking, "How can I help? What can I do?"
- How do you balance providing the electronic resources needed for the classroom environment while securing the network and related technology that you are responsible for?
Unfortunately, in response to my query, my friends and colleagues, jokingly gave me more wisdom than I was prepared to handle. Given those questions, I've decided to try to respond to them seriously, even though they may have intended them as a joke. While I did get some serious questions, like the ones below, I decided to take a shot at the zany ones featured in this blog entry. For now, here are the sane questions contributed by Nathan Mielke (@ndmielke):
- Have you built a career pitching a product/platform or have you worked to build systems that support learning? If you pitch a product/platform, why?
- Have you been to Mountain View or Cupertino? If so, how many times and what did you learn/share with others?
- Were you a business ed teacher? If so, are you over "kids need to know how to use Word to work in a business?"
- Can you spell TCP/IP?
What would your responses be to these zany questions–contributors include Doug "Blue Skunk" Johnson (MN) and Mark Gabehart (TX)–below?
1) Are you a masochist?
"Did you know that he installed video cameras in the ceiling above the women's restroom stalls?" gossiped a secretary. I had just arrived in the school district to facilitate a workshop and this was her way of introducing me to the school district. Of course, she was referring to the technology director, for who else had the knowledge to setup video cameras?
The word "masochist" is one I've carefully avoided researching for the simple reason that it appeared to have sexual overtones, and as such, not worth investigating since I am an educator. Since my esteemed colleague suggested this question, I am, with some trepidation, looking up the word:
enjoyment of pain : pleasure that someone gets from being abused or hurt; especially : sexual enjoyment from being hurt or punished
But it is an important bit of wisdom to consider. Obviously, human beings shouldn't–and an educator cannot, and it's against the law!–derive any pleasure from others being abused or hurt, or how "sex" might play out in school setting. Consider the cautionary tale of the CTO who would gently caress the back of a female staff member while meeting with her. Sexual harassment NEVER is acceptable. These situations play out in the news every few months, unfortunately.
Of course, this question would never be asked during a CTO job interview. But there are valuable lessons here that any CTO would be wise to heed.
- Are you willing to endure the pain of leadership to get things done? There can be emotional pain and turmoil resulting from being a leader or being in a management position. I do not believe that leadership is possible without the kind of self-reflection that leads to growth…as one colleague put it, "Remember, you signed up for this!" Still, that can be cold comfort in the midst. That's why it's important to reach out to others, build a PLN of leaders.
- "No pain, no gain" is a reminder I take to heart when exercising. Pain signals that growth is occurring (or that you're doing things wrong). Figuring out which is a reflective process that must involve those pesky 360 degree surveys, or at least, the ability to ask others, "Am I nuts or what?"
Masochism for the CTO is learning to step into painful situations, have tough conversations and confrontations, even when you know it will be painful. It means working hard to NOT be pain-averse because, as anyone in a leadership position knows, our first instinct is to back away from pain.
|Image Source: http://goo.gl/kj15Bc
) Can you turn water into wine and sows' ears into silk purses?
"We just need you to setup the district's network, run our phone system, and show everyone how to use technology in the classroom?" There is no doubt that CTOs are expected to be miracle-workers. But what happens when you can't afford to pay for miracle-workers, and instead have to make do?
"Home-grown" techs often make great additions to a tech team. I still remember the fondness that two fellow technology directors had for high school students that had grown up "techie" and decided to stay in the school district, either with a degree or not.
"Sow's ears" clearly doesn't refer to these folks, but rather, individuals that can be found in any organization who must be helped to work together. I take a particular delight in recent events with the Security Service, the new director being excoriated because he needed to change the culture now…his approach was to build trust and strong relationships with people that now Congress wants to terminate:
"Dude, you don't have to earn their trust. You're their boss. They're supposed to earn your trust," Rep. Chris Stewart, R-Utah, told Director Joseph Clancy.
Stewart was responding to Clancy — trying to explain why the Secret Service has been caught up in a series of controversies and security incidents — saying it will "take time" to change the culture and he, as director, needs to "build trust" with the workforce.
Source: FoxNews 3/17/2015
The phrase, "Turn sows' ears into silk purses" is particularly relevant for CTOs in small districts where they must depend on staff that lack the professional certifications and/or degrees required in larger organizations. This means finding ways to setup learning situations for staff who may not typically rely on "conventional" learning opportunities, such as university studies. It may mean finding self-paced, just-in-time training opportunities…as well as expensive training that is wholly relevant–which is key for these adult learners who provide service–to to their work.
Sow's ears into silk purses goes to the heart of being a transformational leader. And, unlike what we might imagine from watching fairy tale movies, it doesn't happen in an hour or with a thunderclap. Rather, it is a slow, plodding process that empower people to move ahead one deliberate step at a time. That takes time. Unless you're Miracle Max, you have to nurture those around you.
3) Can you provide tech support to your spouse without losing your patience?
"Honey," my wife woke me up at 5:00am, 30 minutes ahead of my alarm clock. "Can you help me print this out? I can't get it to work!" Boy, was I hot about that awakening. I had stayed up a little later past my bedtime, while my wife dropped off to sleep a little earlier. Why couldn't she have asked me for help the night before? I would have pointed this out to her, but it wouldn't necessarily have done any good–we've had the same situation happen throughout our marriage. She's a morning person, while I'm a night owl. If I had lost my temper, what would it have gained at that moment? I resolved to have a crucial conversation at a time that we were both awake and on equal footing.
Crucial conversations are important, but trying to have them when offering just-in-time, much needed support is a waste of time. The person whom you are trying to have a conversation with doesn't want to listen to why now isn't a good time, and you have to ask yourself what you really want–to be perceived as the person who gets the job done in a time of need, or the person who is going to complain about it while doing it and get people mad at you?
Not surprisingly, I had a situation like this come up recently and I had to deal with it. One set of expectations had been communicated and agreed upon, but somehow, the project was now dependent on me getting things done quickly. I could dig in my heels and complain, or just get the work done, then have the crucial confrontation–since I was disappointed that the expectations had changed or not been met by the other party. Fortunately, the confrontation went well.
It's too easy to lose one's patience. Instead, I ask myself, What do I really want? and when it comes to technology work, it is the good of the organization that trumps all.
4) Mac or PC?
Mac or PC, the age-old debate of which device is the one-size-fits-all. Some of the reasons why folks often pick the PC include:
- Easy to maintain, reimage and support
- Easy to update and manage remotely using solutions like SCCM, PDQ Deploy, "FOG," Clonezilla and others.
- Compatibility with Windows world, especially MS Office Suite, Visio, etc.
5) What is your most embarrassing Facebook photo?
"I recommend you block everyone you work with so they can't read or see what you're doing," shared a colleague a few years ago. I found myself disagreeing. In truth, you don't want to put anything out ANYWHERE that couldn't be shown on the evening news.
So, if by embarrassing Facebook photo, we're referring to a picture that shows one in a situation where you're drinking a margarita with a sombrero, you better not be doing so wearing the school district t-shirt featuring the District's logo or mascot.
and, a bonus question,
6) Do eat Thai food?
"Let's go out to lunch," said one boss I worked with. He had a craving for Thai food and I learned that from him. I was a bit reluctant to go out to eat with my boss at the time; he was a workaholic and I knew lunch would be about work. And, I had this new book I wanted to read during lunch.
Believe it or not, I had never had Thai food until that day and I can't imagine what would have happened if I wasn't "open to new experiences." As a CTO, you have to be open to new experiences that will change your perspective…and, perhaps more importantly, you have to find ways to create–or facilitate the joint creation–of experiences for those you work with.
There are many real questions that could be asked when interviewing for a CTO position. I've run into some pretty inventive ones, but I will have to share those at a future date. For now, I'm happy to say that I'm surprised at how insightful my friend's questions were, even though I doubt I would ever encounter them in an interview panel's list!


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Please take a moment to review Hachette Book Group's updated Privacy Policy: read the updated policy here.
The Mammoth Book of Egyptian Whodunnits
Mystery and murder from the Sands of Time; This anthology covers two periods in history – the time of 'Ancient Egypt' which stretches from the First Dynasty in 4000 BC to the time of the Roman Empire, and the time of the Discoveries, which covers the Napoleonic and Victorian periods of excavation. The anthology will be a collection of new stories and rare reprints, including contributions from Lynda Robinson, featuring Lord Meren, Lauren Haney and a Lieutenant Bak mystery, plus stories from Gillian Linscott, Kate Ellis, Marilyn Todd, Paul Doherty, Suzanne Franke, Amy Myers, Michael Pearce, Elizabeth Peters and many more. So from the famed Cleopatra to Howard Carter and the Curse of the Pharaohs, here are 25 stories to enthral and enchant devotees of the genre.Read More


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Land Warfare
Eurosatory 2018: Franco-German industry unveils new Euro tank
French and German industry have unexpectedly unveiled a new Euro Main Battle Tank (EMBT) concept at Eurosatory, their first attempt at combining national technologies to develop a next-generation pan-European tank.
The EMBT has been developed by KNDS – a joint company between German Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) and French company Nexter – and ...
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A walk in our nearby village of Le Bic found this remarkable trio of cans.
On the far left is the trash can, with the frowling image. The middle can is the recycling bin, with the salute image. The smiling image is reserved for the compost bin. Delightful!
We don't use our compost bin much, as we have the handy compost in place site down pat (it's over the fence, easily covered with a bit of soil, as needed. We also have the chicken manure and horse manure site, too, so we have compost covered.
Woody, who's now an old boy at almost 11, is learning how to go up and down a ramp to our cars. His leg that had the draconian knee ligament reconstruction for big dogs has finally gotten problematic (he was lucky it took this long).
Down is easy, sometimes I have to demonstrate going up for him to follow!


text: Dr Kamal Shaban Abdeulaal, "Expert on Financial Development" and Riyali representative discussed financial planning in a panel discussion titled (Money: Saving and Investing). He was present at the Forum which hosted an elite group of experts and specialists to address planning concepts and achieving success. He also shed light over the most prominent skills that contribute to shaping a better future for the youth by raising awareness and equipping them with the right knowledge and skills towards positive planning.


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Time: May 27, 2017 from 7am to 2pm
Location: Brown Middle School,
Street: 5716 Highway 58
City/Town: Harrison, TN
Website or Map: http://www.harrisonlodge114fa…
Phone: 423-344-8014
Event Type: charity, event, car-show
Organized By: Harrison Lodge #114 F & AM
Latest Activity: May 25, 2017
Harrison Lodge #114 Annual Cars For Kids, Car, Truck, Motorcycle, and Tractor Show (in memory of Ronnie Blaylock, Sr.). All proceeds go to Special Education Students in Hamilton County Schools. Onsite registration is $15 and begins at 7 AM. Judging begins at noon. WE ARE STILL SEEKING SPONSORS FOR THIS YEAR'S SHOW. Contact Patrick Duffey @ 423-240-9615 or Jason Haney @ 423-421-3719 for more info.
Join SOUTH EAST USA WHEELS EVENTS-Car and Motorcycle Events Calendar
Hey! Please post your club meetings and other car events on the Events Calendar & we will get the word out big time! It is really easy using the "Copy" command under the "Options" button on your open Events page. Chuck


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Paranormal Horror Feature Armenian Haunting Coming Soon to VOD/DVD
LOS ANGELES, CA. – Distributor Reel Nightmare Films and the Together Magic Film Group have announced the March release of their new paranormal docu-thriller Armenian Haunting. Written and Directed by Art Arutyunyan, the hour-long horror thriller will arrive on VOD and DVD just in time to commemorate the 103rd Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day in April.
The official synopsis reads: "A young Armenian-American journalist investigates the recent deaths in her family, only to find herself caught in the middle of a paranormal mystery."
Reel Nightmare Films has shared exclusively with Horror Society two theatrical one-sheet posters of Armenian Haunting, and new promotional stills.
The film's first trailer will be released in February.
More information about Armenian Haunting and Reel Nightmare Films' current catalog can be found on their Facebook page: http://bit.ly/2uJrYbh.


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It has been awhile since my last post on my blog!
My son got married November 10!
So...I was busy with wedding and rehearsal dinner plans.
Everything turned out beautifully and lots of fun!!!!
I didn't think I would be able to create as a design team member this month at the Card Concept, but when I saw this inspiration board, it sent my creative juices flowing!!!
Isn't it adorable!!!!!
And here is my card:
I stamped my images onto Copic friendly paper with Black Memento ink.
I had so much fun coloring these cute images with my Copic markers! I added some doodles with a white gel pen. And I added some Glossy Accents and Nuvo Crystal drops to the nose and berries. And for extra shine, I used a Wink of Stella Clear glitter pen!
The style of my card would be considered
~Clean lines
~Lots of Layers
~Designer papers, embossing
~Clean & Fresh looking
~Some colored images
~White space
~Clean lines
~Lots of Layers
~Designer papers, embossing
~Clean & Fresh looking
~Some colored images
~White space
AND LOTS of CUTENESS!!!
I hope I have inspired you to join us here at
Create a card or project using any of the styles we have defined or create your own with a combination of styles.
All of the styles are explained HERE.
Thanks for stopping by!
Stuff I used:
Stamps: elves2stamp (Stamps Of Life)
happybday2you (Stamps Of Life)
FaLaLa (Paper Sweeties)
Holly Days (Paper Sweeties)
Dies: elves2stamp, happybday2you (Stamps of Life)
Holly Days Sweet Cuts (Paper Sweeties)
Miscellanous Stuff:Memento Black Ink; Copic Markers; Glossy Accents; Wink of Stella Clear Glitter Pen; Nuvo Crystal Drops-English Mustard; Versamark; SSS Clear Embossing Powder


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« back to Power Tools, Hardware and Accessories forum
|Forum topic by Carloz
|posted 12-10-2017 05:35 PM
|2667 views
|0 times favorited
|7 replies
Is is an acceptable temporary substitution for a table saw ?
7 replies so far
#1 posted 12-10-2017 08:00 PM
I have had one for years and really like it. I have never had an alignment issue (the tracks are self aligning). I have read about others have issues with other track systems but every time I check mine to be sure, everything is straight. I would not call it temporary. They both have their place. I can do extremely precise cuts. Like any system it is how well you set up the cut. There is a forum on their website you can also check out.
Hope that helps. Let us know what you do.
#2 posted 12-11-2017 01:26 AM
I cannot offer a comparison of the EZTrack to the brands you mentioned but can offer some comments.
In my view the tack saw system is not a substitute for the table saw. The table saw can be quickly set to make accurate cuts that are straight and parallel. The EZTrack (or any brand for that matter) will produce straight cuts, but achieving the accuracy and parallel edges requires a great deal more setup time. As a result I use the EZTrack system to breakdown sheet goods to a manageable size. I use the table saw to establish parallel edges and then a panel cutting sled to square up the ends.
I purchased the EZTrack system with an extension track and hold down clamps. I also purchased a Skilsaw that I dedicate to the EZTrack system. I leave the EZTrack circular saw base attached to the Skilsaw. The extension track allows an uninterrupted straight cut along the 8' length of the sheet good. The hold down clamps keeps the track from sliding around. The system came with several zero-clearance strips to minimize tear out. The plastic strip slides into the extruded slot on the edge of the track. There is also a zero clearance plate that snaps into the saw's base to further reduce tear out.
I did find that the aluminum is fairly soft. I over-torqued the set screws that keep the aluminum alignment bars attached to one track and slightly dented the face of the track. I backed off the set screws. This mishap had no effect on the performance of the system. The aluminum align bars interlock the two tracks together for longer cuts.
I have used this system many times and it is easy to use. The zero clearance plastic strip on the track is aligned with a witness mark at each end of the cut, the track clamped in place, and the cut made. There is little to no slop as the saw rides in the track and the extension tracks always aligns perfectly. When I use the extension, I do not bother locking the extension to the aluminum alignment bars since I use clamps to keep the tacks in place.
The only complaint I have with the system is dust collection. Dust collection depends on the ability to capture dust made by the saw. My Skilsaw has no dust collection hook-up, so a lot of dust is thrown into the air. The more expensive systems you mentioned are used with a plunge saw that offers integrated dust collection. Therefore, from a dust collection perspective, the Festool, Dewalt, and Mitka systems with their plunge saws would likely be better.
#3 posted 12-11-2017 04:37 AM
Thank you Carl and JBrow,
#4 posted 12-11-2017 01:09 PM
Eurekazone, the company that makes the EZ Smart products, sells a dust collection port and shield that can be added to most circular saws to improve the dust collection. Because the blade is not completely shrouded the collection will not be 100%, but it is much better.
I'm not sure if you'll be adding the Smart Base to your own circular saw. If you are, then I have two suggestions:
(1) Watch the Eurekazone video that shows you how to do this first. It is really pretty easy to do. Search Youtube using "EurekaZone Smart Saw Base" to find the video. Also see the instructions at eurekazone.com.
(2) If possible, I'd suggest either using a self-centering drill bit to drill the screw holes through the circular saw's base that fasten the base to the saw, or carefully use a set punch to provide a good starting point for the drilling. Instead of using double-sided tape, I used several very small Irwin clamps I happened to have, but the double-stick tape might have been a safer choice. I also had to purchase some longer M4 screws because of the thickness of my saw base. But in all it was pretty easy to do.
Also, note that with the first cut of the white plastic anti-chip edge, you'll want to place the track & saw on scrap wood, set the saw for a very shallow cut, and move the saw backwards rather than forwards. This prevents excessive chipping. Also make sure you're wearing eye protection as the chips will fly.
I've used the EZ Smart tracks and related tools for a number of years and am very happy with them. They are truly industrial quality.
As JBrow mentioned, be gentle when tightening screws. Its not that the rails are soft, its just that they are aluminum, and aluminum can be deformed with force from a steel screw. It really doesn't take much force to hold the connectors and clamps in place.
One last thought … once you have your saw setup on the Smart Base, then you'll likely want to purchase a Universal Edge Guide, which makes ripping plywood very easy and provides repeatable cut widths. Its pretty inexpensive.
#5 posted 12-11-2017 02:36 PM
I should have addressed your first question. A track saw alone may or may not be a substitute for a table saw, since all it does is cut in a straight line with a circular saw. It really depends upon what you need to do.
A table saw fitted with a dado blade set can cut rabbets and dados, but for me the router can be used to do rabbets and dados, so I'm covered there.
I use a compound sliding miter saw to do miter cuts.
With this in mind, and because of I what I personally see as a high risk of table saw injury, I have invested in Eurekazone products so as not to use my older table saw. I've gone a long time – many years – without needing to use a table saw. Use of the Eurekazone products might take a different point of view, and some time to think about how to do what I need to do, but so far so good.
With that said, every so often I continue to feel the "call" of the table saw, but find that about as soon as I get the table saw "fever" I then come upon forum posts about injuries and the fever goes away. I am by no means saying people should not use a table saw!! Its just a decision I've made.
BTW, I have the same feeling about my chainsaw. I dread using it every time I have to use it, but sometimes it is the only solution to what I need to do. So, I try to take every precaution I can to avoid injury.
#6 posted 12-12-2017 02:19 AM
I appreciate you signing on to Lumberjocks to post your replies. I was unaware of the aftermarket dust collection adapter for the circular saw from Eurekazone. I looked at the dust collections products and it appears the company's retrofit may work for my Skilsaw. I will be making a purchase in the coming weeks.
I have found achieving perfect dust collection at the tool (no matter the tool or the dust collector) is almost impossible. But for a few dollars the Eurekazone circular saw dust collection retrofit, if I can successfully attach it to my Skilsaw, will most assuredly collect enough dust to justify the cost. There is a lot of dust ejected from the rear dust shoot on the Skilsaw saw which could be collected.
#7 posted 12-12-2017 05:08 AM
Thank you all. I already placed an order but then called Rockler to cancel it. Luckily they had not orocessed it yet.
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