Tag: KS

Gas Plumbing: Services to Expect

Posted on by Merle Cummings

Gas plumbing is important in our lives. However, it’s essential to recognize that working with gas requires expertise and caution due to the potential safety risks involved. This is where gas plumbers come into the picture. They are trained in all services related to gas plumbing, making sure our gas appliances are running efficiently and we are not harmed by any accidents that might happen with subpar gas plumbing.

Gas line installation

In Brisbane where gas appliances, water heaters, and heating systems are used daily, the services of a gas plumber Brisbane based is frequently needed. One of the primary services they provide is gas line installation for new homes or home renovations. Gas plumbers have the expertise to assess the property’s needs, determine the appropriate pipe size, and install gas lines safely and according to local building codes.

During installation, gas plumbers often use specialized equipment to ensure the gas line is properly connected and there are no harmful leaks that can pose severe safety hazards. A professional gas line installation guarantees the reliability and longevity of your gas supply system.

Gas appliance connection

Gas plumbers also provide gas appliances installation and connection for ovens, stoves, water heaters, furnaces, etc. Proper installation is essential to ensure that these appliances operate efficiently and safely. Gas plumbers have the knowledge and experience to connect gas lines to your appliances correctly, adhering to manufacturer specifications and local regulations.

In addition to the initial installation, gas plumbers can provide ongoing maintenance and repair services for your gas appliances. Regular maintenance is important to make sure your gas appliances are working, and any potential issues are already corrected before they become costlier repairs in the future. Preventive maintenance also ensures your appliances operate efficiently, saving you money on your energy bill.

Gas leak detection and repair

Gas leaks are among the most dangerous issues that homeowners are afraid of. Even a minor gas leak can lead to a dangerous incident if left untreated. Gas plumbers are trained to detect gas leaks and promptly address them using gas detectors and pressure gauges to find the source of the leak.

Once they find the leak, gas plumbers immediately repair it to eliminate any danger by repairing or replacing faulty gas lines, fittings, or valves. Gas plumbers also conduct thorough testing to confirm that the repair was successful and that there are no remaining leaks.

Emergency gas services

Gas emergencies can happen at any time, and when they do, you need a professional who can respond quickly and effectively. Gas plumbers offer emergency services to address urgent issues like gas leaks, malfunctioning appliances, or sudden loss of gas supply. It’s essential to have the contact information of a trusted gas plumber readily available in case of emergencies to minimize risks and disruptions to your daily life.

Conclusion

Gas plumbers’ expertise in gas line installation, appliance connection, leak detection and repair, emergency services, and maintenance ensures that our gas systems operate efficiently and, most importantly, safely. Whether you’re moving to a new home, renovating, or just need routine maintenance, don’t underestimate the value of a skilled gas plumber.

The Snatch Block: Your Off-Roading Lifesaver

Posted on by Merle Cummings

Off-roading is a thrilling adventure, but it often comes with its fair share of challenges, from steep inclines to muddy pits. In such situations, a snatch block can be your ultimate ally. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of snatch blocks, their functions, and why they are an indispensable tool for off-road enthusiasts.

A snatch block is a pulley with a hinged side that allows it to open and accept a cable or rope. It’s designed to change the direction of a winch cable or recovery strap while also multiplying the pulling power. Essentially, it’s a mechanical advantage device that makes recovering a stuck vehicle much easier.The primary function of a snatch block is to provide a mechanical advantage during a recovery operation. When a vehicle is stuck, and you need to winch it out, a snatch block can be placed in the line of the cable or strap. This redirects the force, effectively doubling the winching capacity while reducing the load on the winch itself.One of the snatch block’s significant advantages is its versatility in various recovery scenarios. Whether you’re stuck in deep mud, wedged between rocks, or trying to navigate a steep incline, a snatch block can adapt to the situation, making it an invaluable tool in your off-road recovery kit.

Using a snatch block not only increases your winch’s effectiveness but also reduces the strain on both your winch and your vehicle. Lowering the load on the winch motor and cable minimizes the risk of overheating or damaging your winch during a challenging recovery. Safety is paramount during any off-road recovery operation. A snatch block provides a safer and more controlled winching experience. It helps distribute the load more evenly, reducing the risk of sudden cable snapbacks or winch-related accidents.A snatch block can convert a single-line pull into a double-line pull, effectively doubling the winch’s pulling power. This is particularly useful in situations where you need that extra strength to overcome an obstacle or free a heavily stuck vehicle.

Besides increasing pulling power, a snatch block allows you to change the direction of the winch pull. This versatility is essential when you need to navigate complex recovery scenarios, such as side recoveries or pulling a vehicle out from behind an obstacle.Regularly inspect and maintain your snatch block. Look for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion, and replace any worn or damaged components promptly. Proper maintenance ensures that your snatch block remains safe and functional. While snatch blocks are primarily associated with off-road recoveries, they have utility beyond the trail. They can be used for various tasks, such as hauling heavy loads, tree removal, or even in marine applications.In the world of off-roading, where challenging terrains and obstacles are par for the course, a snatch block is a vital companion. Its ability to increase winching power, reduce strain on equipment, and provide a safer recovery experience cannot be overstated. Whether you’re exploring remote trails, traversing rocky landscapes, or tackling muddy bogs, a snatch block can turn a daunting recovery into a manageable task, ensuring that you continue to conquer the off-road with confidence and efficiency

Why Hiring Compact Rollers Is the Best Option for Your Upcoming Renovation Project

Posted on by Merle Cummings

Are you contemplating home or garden renovations but feeling intimidated by the volume of labour required? Hire a little roller without looking anywhere else! This adaptable tool has the potential to significantly improve your project’s effectiveness and success. You’ll wonder why you didn’t think of it sooner because it’s not only simple to use but also comes with a number of advantages. This blog post will discuss what a compact roller is specifically, its numerous benefits, how to operate one efficiently, and professional advice for choosing the best equipment for your requirements. Prepare to revolutionise your next makeover with the help of a compact roller hire!

A compact roller is what?

A compact roller is a multipurpose construction equipment that may be applied to dirt, asphalt, concrete, and other surfaces. Two steel drums or rollers fixed on an axle with a handlebar for ease of manoeuvrability make up this compact yet effective machine.

Usually, water is put into the drums to make them heavier and add more compaction force. The compact roller may more efficiently level uneven surfaces with this extra weight, and it can compact materials like gravel or soil into a firm basis for paving or pouring concrete.

Compact rollers are available in a range of sizes, from small handheld devices to larger ride-on types appropriate for larger tasks. While the larger machines are better suited for business uses like roadworks, the smaller ones are great for home tasks like driveway repairs or garden makeovers.

Compact roller rental is a cost-effective and effective solution to get results of a professional calibre without breaking the bank!

The advantages of renting small rollers

The appropriate tools may make all the difference while remodelling your house. A little roller is one piece of equipment that is necessary for a successful remodelling operation.

Compact roller rental is an excellent choice for your next restoration project because of its many advantages. First of all, utilising this equipment makes it easier for you to swiftly and effectively create an even and level surface. This is crucial if your restoration project involves working with concrete or paving stones.

Second, compact rollers are simple to handle and very manoeuvrable, which makes them perfect for usage in confined areas like patios or driveways. These devices can speed up work on any construction site due to their compact size and potent capabilities.

Renting a small roller has the added advantage of being more affordable than buying one altogether. By renting, you may get high-quality equipment without having to worry about storage or maintenance expenditures.

Hiring from renowned rental businesses guarantees that you have access to dependable equipment that complies with safety rules and that you will receive good customer care in the event that any problems emerge while your rental is in effect.

Renting a small roller has numerous benefits over buying one outright, including simplicity of use, affordability, effective levelling, and safe use when done so through reputable rental providers.

How to operate a little roller

It’s simple to operate a compact roller, but it’s crucial to take the time to learn how to do it correctly. Prepare the surface you wish to roll on first. Debris should be cleared away, and uneven surfaces should be levelled.

Make careful to apply consistent pressure to the roller’s whole width when using it. Beginning at one end of the surface, go back and forth across it until you reach the opposite side.

For bigger surfaces, divide the space into smaller parts so that you may concentrate on each area separately. This will make sure there are no missing places and the finish is even.

When rolling over harder terrain or thicker coatings like tar/asphalt combinations, you may need to apply more pressure. To do this, add additional water tanks or weights from above to boost weight.

Always put safety first while using machinery; don protective gear and gloves!

Compact roller rental advice

There are a few key considerations to make when renting a small roller for your restoration job. First, make sure the roller you select is the appropriate size for your unique requirements. Take into account the area you will be compacting as well as the kind of soil or material you will be using.

It’s crucial to clean up any dirt and make sure the surface is level before applying the compact roller. This will guarantee the roller’s effective and efficient operation.

When using a compact roller, always use the proper safety gear, such as gloves, eye protection, and closed-toe shoes. Before beginning, it’s also crucial to carefully read all of your rental company’s guidelines.

Start at one end of your work area and proceed systematically and in straight lines across it while using the compact roller. Make careful to slightly overlap each pass to provide uniform compaction all around.

Before returning the machine to its owner after finishing your project, make sure to clear out any extra dirt or debris from both the interior and exterior of the machine. You may achieve the best outcomes throughout your restoration job while keeping safe by according to these straightforward suggestions!

Compact roller rental is unquestionably something to take into consideration if you’re seeking for an effective and affordable option for your upcoming restoration job. It’s understandable why many contractors and DIY enthusiasts choose this choice given the advantages of saving time, effort, and money while creating a professional finish on any surface.

Recall to select the proper size and kind of roller for your purposes, adhere to safety precautions during use and maintenance, and hire from a reputable source with high-quality equipment.

By doing this, you may get the most out of your small roller rental experience and have a smoother transition to the completion of your remodelling project. So why are you still waiting? Try it out right now!

This is why you need to work with an expert marketing agency

Posted on by Merle Cummings

Every business or company in the world needs to take their marketing seriously. If you are going to start your very own business, then you need to consider marketing as a very important operation within the business. Marketing work done in the right way is going to be highly effective and this is why you need to make sure you hire the help of professionals. You can work together with a professional marketing agency and they are going to do the best marketing work for your business. However, you need to first look for a marketing agency that has a leading reputation and skilled professionals. If they are marketers who are highly skilled and have years of experience, then they are going to be the best service to hire for your business marketing campaign. Working with an expert marketing agency is going to be a wise idea for any small business of today. Keep on reading to know why you need to team up with a professional marketing agency.

A marketing agency is going to handle any marketing project!

Once you team up with a digital agency Brisbane, you are going to experience a lot of benefits and perks. One thing you will see with a digital agency or marketing agency is the ability to manage a lot of different marketing projects. Marketing comes in many shapes and sizes, which is why you need to work with the best in the field. Whether you want to do social media marketing, search engine optimization, search engine marketing, video marketing or more, it is all something that professionals can handle in a successful manner. No matter what kind of marketing channel or medium is a good fit for your business, it is something that professionals can pull off. This is why you do not need to have doubts about working with an expert marketing agency.

High quality marketing work is carried out by experts

If you are going to team up with the number one marketing agency or digital agency in town, then you know high quality marketing work is going to be carried out. If you try to create social media marketing campaigns or online marketing projects through your business, then this might end up lacking quality and high standards. But when you choose to go through an expert marketing agency, they are going to do marketing that is going to stand out in a unique manner. High quality is not going to lack in the work they do!

The marketing agency is going to save your time and effort

Planning out the right marketing techniques for your business and then executing it is going to be time consuming. If you are not working with professionals, then you would need to put in more time and effort for this process. But if you team up with professionals for marketing, then they will save your time and energy while doing the hard work themselves.

Choosing Outdoor Furniture Materials

Posted on by Merle Cummings

There are many considerations before choosing outdoor furniture such as your budget, material, style, colour, level of maintenance required etc. In this article, we are looking at how different furniture materials affect the longevity and the appearance of the item.

Outdoor furniture is exposed to the elements and therefore needs some extra protection along with some strong materials. A classic choice for outdoor furniture Gold Coast is wood and this has been used for such a long time because of its versatility. Wooden outdoor furniture is durable and it gives a beautiful and cosy effect to the outdoor space. But compared to other available materials, there is a little more maintenance required when it comes to wooden furniture. And this may be a small price to pay if you love the impression provided by wood. While there are alternative materials to wood that can mimic its properties, it is very difficult to match the same warmth that wooden furniture embodies. Some of the maintenance you will need to carry out will be sealing and staining. This will ensure that the furniture does not warp, fade or rot after being exposed to the elements for a long time.

Another material that has been used for a long time in outdoor furniture is metal. You can find steel, wrought iron and aluminium furniture. Metal furniture is chosen for this purpose regarding its durability, high resistance to the elements and strength. You will also be able to enjoy low maintenance furniture set when you invest in metal furniture. You can clean the furniture occasionally by wiping them with a damp cloth or even washing and thoroughly drying the furniture. However, there is the risk of corrosion when it comes to metalfurniture so you need to make sure that they have the proper coatings to protect them from moisture and air. And if you are looking for lightweight furniture, aluminium is a great choice and you will be able to change the furniture configuration easily as well.

There are also plastic alternatives when it comes to outdoor furniture and they are lightweight, durable, low maintenance and can fit a limited budget. While they may not be as aesthetically pleasing as other options, this is still a good consideration for outdoor spaces. And if you are looking for a more natural material, you can consider wicker furniture that is made of reed, bamboo or rattan. These are also lightweight and you can increase the comfort using cushions. Their durability is not at the same level asmetal or wood however. But if you are looking something less maintenance and more durable, you can consider synthetic wicker. There is also wicker furniture that has an aluminium structure ensuring that the final result is lightweight. You may also have come across resin furniture that mimics the appearance of natural materials. And this is a great option if you are looking for low maintenancematerials. You can find many outdoor furniture that is made of a combination of materials that can offer you the benefits of multiple materials.

Health and Safety in Construction

Posted on by Merle Cummings

Health and safety considerations are of utmost importance in the construction industry, as the nature of construction work involves various risks and hazards that can have serious consequences for workers, contractors, and the general public. This article will discuss the key health and safety considerations in construction, including identifying and managing risks, providing adequate training, and implementing safety protocols.

One of the primary health and safety considerations in construction is identifying and managing risks. This involves conducting risk assessments via procedures such as concrete scanning Brisbane and identifying potential hazards associated with specific construction tasks. Contractors and workers must understand the risks involved and take the necessary precautions to mitigate these risks. For example, construction workers may be exposed to fall hazards, chemical hazards, or electrical hazards, and it is essential to have the appropriate safety equipment and training in place to manage these risks.

Another important health and safety consideration in construction is providing adequate training for workers. Construction work requires specialized skills and knowledge, and workers must receive the necessary training to perform their tasks safely. This includes training on the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safety procedures, and emergency response protocols. Workers should also be made aware of the risks involved in their specific tasks and be trained in how to identify and manage these risks.

Implementing safety protocols is another critical health and safety consideration in construction. Safety protocols are established procedures and guidelines that workers must follow to minimize the risk of injury or harm. This includes procedures for working at heights, handling hazardous materials, and responding to emergencies. Safety protocols must be well-communicated and regularly reviewed and updated to ensure that they remain relevant and effective.

In addition, construction sites must be regularly inspected to identify potential hazards and ensure that safety protocols are being followed. Regular inspections can help to identify potential hazards and address them before they result in an incident. Inspections can also help to ensure that PPE is being used correctly and that workers are following safe work practices.

The provision of first aid facilities and equipment is also an important health and safety consideration in construction. Construction sites must be equipped with adequate first-aid facilities and supplies to respond to emergencies, and workers must be trained in basic first-aid procedures. This can help to ensure that workers receive prompt medical attention in the event of an injury or illness.

The construction industry also has a responsibility to protect the environment and the surrounding communities. This involves controlling and mitigating the potential impact of construction activities on the environment, such as air and water pollution, and noise. Contractors must follow environmental regulations and ensure that workers are aware of the potential impact of their work on the environment.

In conclusion, health and safety considerations are of utmost importance in the construction industry. Contractors and workers must take the necessary precautions to identify and manage risks, provide adequate training, and implement safety protocols. Regular inspections, first aid facilities, and environmental considerations must also be addressed to ensure a safe and healthy work environment for workers and the surrounding communities. By taking these health and safety considerations seriously, the construction industry can reduce the risk of incidents and ensure the well-being of workers, contractors, and the public.

Common Myths About Scanning with GPR

Posted on by Merle Cummings

When coring or carving into concrete, using ground penetrating radar, often known as GPR, is a very efficient scanning approach for ensuring worker safety. Despite this, there remain a number of misunderstandings regarding the capabilities and limitations of GPR. Before you employ a concrete scanning service on your project, you should first familiarise yourself with some of the common misconceptions about GPR with the assistance of this list.

If I get the necessary equipment, I may do the scan myself- The GPR gear is simple to set up and use, but it can be difficult to make sense of the data it collects. The idea that GPR provides a clear depiction of what is contained within the concrete is a widespread but mistaken belief. In reality, the screen displays a monochromatic picture that looks very much like television static. When the antenna makes a connection with a target, a hyperbola will appear on the screen to represent the connection. GPR analyzers go through a significant amount of training to be able to analyse the data and know how to discern between different items that appear on the screen. If you need to dig into some concrete, first make sure that you contact concrete scanning Brisbane

GPR can achieve results regardless of the surface conditions- The effectiveness of concrete scanning is significantly impacted by the amount of moisture present in the concrete. The presence of moisture boosts conductivity, which means that the signal from the equipment bounces directly back, making it impossible to acquire accurate readings of the data. Concrete that is less than three months old has a greater water content than concrete that has been given more time to cure, which is why it is preferable to wait before scanning the surface. Insulation, marble flooring, granite floors, and other surfaces might also fall under the category of problematic surfaces.

GPR can scan at any depth- In applications that involve scanning concrete using GPR technology, the maximum depth that may be scanned is 20 inches. If we have exposure to both surfaces of the slab, the analyst will be able to scan significantly thicker concrete.

The GPR apparatus can discriminate between various things- In a very generalised form, the data are shown on the display of the apparatus, as was indicated earlier. Different things, such as post-tension cable or steel, aren’t shown in a distinguishable manner, nor do they demonstrate a variation in the hyperbola. Because of the analyst’s extensive experience, he or she can differentiate between the many lines and patterns in order to correctly interpret the data.

GPR has a precision of one hundred percent- Even though GPR is often regarded as one of the most successful methods of non-destructive testing, the technique is not without its flaws. Under optimal conditions, the accuracy of GPR may be as high as one-quarter of an inch from the centre of the target and as low as one-half of an inch. Wire mesh, pan decking, and many layers of rebar are examples of concrete components that can each have a potential impact on the accuracy of the measurements.

Reason why you need to hire a surveyor

Posted on by Merle Cummings

If you are buying land or real estate, please contact a surveyor.  Qualified surveyors with years of experience will tell you if it’s actually worth for the price.  From fences to ground measurements, surveyors will help you make the right decision.  Numerous benefits of hiring a licensed land surveyor is mentioned below.Your tasks will also be easier, and you won’t have some surprising issues that force you to deal with irrelevant issues.

If you are an owner of a property you need to have a clear understanding of property and it’s features.  In this article, we’ll tell you the benefits of hiring a surveyor who can help you make clear and accurate decisions. Of course the role of a surveyor is great  and if you hire a surveyor you will get a lot of benefits.  If your property needs a surveyor, consider Land Surveyors in Melbourne. They have professionals who will understand your concerns and act accordingly.

The few most essential needs to hire a qualified surveyor is mentioned below.

Soil Quality

A surveyor will determine the type of soil of the property. This will help to decide the type of foundation that has to be laid on this land.  Before starting construction, ask your friends if the area is flooded.  A topographer is required when buying a property.  For example if you are buying a property a surveyor will visit the site and tell you if it is suitable to buy and if it is worth for the price.

 Construction preparation

When you buy land, start building after a while.  Before starting the construction make sure you consult with a qualified surveyor who will give you the permission to start construction work of your building.  First and foremost you should check the soil and see if the type of foundation is suitable for the soil.  This is very important for the safety of the building as the durability of the building will depend on the strength of the building. So make sure the foundation is strong and durable.

Asset value

Surveyors play a key role in the process of selling or buying a property.  When investing your hard-earned money, you should take into account that a surveyor will help you determine the value of a particular property.

Dividing the property

If you want to divide a compound for commercial or residential use, you need proper boundary readings.  You can’t just guess because your future tenants won’t be happy if they know they’re paying more or that their neighbors have more space than they should.  Even if it is only a matter of a small measurement you should try for the most accurate division possible to save yourself from trouble and keep them away from you.

 This is a simple investment that will give you a lot of information to use for your benefit.  Just look for a local property and surveyor and let them do an accurate reading and survey of all your land.  Once your construction project is complete and the property is shared, you will not regret it and you will not have any problems.

Technology and home designs

Posted on by Merle Cummings

There can be so much modern advancement in technology and in life. These advancements are not just limited to technology, but it can expand in all fields of life. Technology and use of machines has made life so much easier and comfortable. We use machines to perform almost all the activities in life. We also use machines to perform working activities, also we use machines to perform our day-to-day activities. Machine makes the work quicker and effortless. This has been a great benefit for us currently as we have problem managing time with busy lives. It is impossible to imagine a life without machines now. Machines are ruling the world, and they have become a necessity to us now.  Just like the benefits of this technological advancement, there can also be disadvantages which can lead to many other consequences. Specially using of technology inappropriately can be harmful to us and the nature.

Likewise due to technology everything has developed, house designs has developed as well. These new designs mainly focus on providing a peaceful environment inside the house. It’s significant to have such environment these days due to high workload and so much of mental stress. Mental stress can be a risk factor for so many health related disorders. The most common health related disorder is hypertension. This also can cause immune suppression and lead to serious disorders like cancer in the future. It’s significant that we get enough rest and enough sleep. So, mainly the focus is to prevent such disorders by managing the stress. Coming home after working for 8 to 9 hours in an office, this should be a peaceful and relaxing environment to forget about the stress in the office. They can be so many changes done to the house to make it peaceful environment.

When the house is already built, you can consider doing renovations and fixing modern technological equipment or components to change the environment and make life easier. You can check homerenovations.com.au for more ideas. So few methods to improve the internal environment is by making the house spacious. When the house is too congested, it can be so stressful, having a house that is spacious enough to accommodate all the furniture and everyone in the house. And also there can be air conditioners fixed so that the temperature and humidity in the house is maintained at its optimum levels. Air conditioner is also help remove pollutants from the surrounding air and give fresh air, which improves the quality of air and house.

There are also methods in which large glass windows are placed in the house to bring natural lighting into the house. This can make the house look spacious, and also it can help the natural lighting enter the house. This can help strengthen the bond between the nature and the people living in the house. This is so effective to cut down some costs from the electricity bill, and there will be natural lighting during the day.

What Exactly Do Real Estate Agents Do During the Workday?

Posted on by Merle Cummings

Is it possible to describe what real estate brokers perform during a typical day? Real estate agents execute a variety of jobs daily, and identifying these responsibilities is the first step in understanding them. It is necessary to accomplish so by first eliminating the word “typical” from your vocabulary. The world of real estate is one in which there is no such thing as a typical day. There are new challenges, tasks, and people to meet every day, whether you’re showing a property and must quickly duck away to move the cat litter box out of sight or negotiating contracts with international buyers via Skype, or helping first-time buyers learn more about how to improve their FICO scores, there’s something new to learn every day.

Even if there are certain things that are common in nature, there are some things that are unique to a real estate agent’s daily schedule. For example, their typical daily chores have been organized according to the responsibilities that are linked with them to aid you in answering the question, “What do real estate agents do all day?”

As a sole owner, you have entire control over the operations of your company. Box Hill real estate agents, even though they work under the supervision of a broker, are almost always considered to be self-employed individuals who work for themselves. It is true that they own and operate their own tiny business. Making copies, filing paperwork, keeping track of expenditures and receipts for tax purposes, and responding to phone calls and emails are all tasks that real estate agents conduct daily that are also performed by most small-business owners.

A marketer is a person who advertises items or services to potential customers. Real estate agents not only promote themselves and their services daily, but they also market the houses of their clients’ clients. Because of this, marketing activities may consume a large chunk of a person’s day. There may be an open house planned, listing images taken, a listing description produced, the property put on the Multiple Listing Service, flyers and postcards created, as well as outreach to members of the media in the area. Agents, on the other hand, are always promoting themselves and building their own personal brands. Maintenance of social media accounts, blogging, attending a local networking event, and other similar activities are examples of behaviours that fall into this category.

The representative who is well-informed: It is essential for agents to take their responsibilities as “the knowledgeable agent” seriously if they want to keep their licenses and stay on top of the newest innovations and trends in the industry. Participants are expected to participate in real estate continuing education programs, analyse local market trends, inspect available properties to keep up with current inventory availability, attend lunches and meetings at their local board office as professional development courses, among other activities.