Livingston Reporting

Top Renovation Updates for Aging in Place

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

A large majority of older Americans prefer to age in place rather than move to a more accessible home; however, many quickly realize that their existing living spaces aren’t designed to support them as they age. Multi-story layouts, lack of walk-in showers, and narrow hallways are just a few of the everyday challenges seniors face.

Key Areas to Prioritize When Renovating for Aging in Place

Strategic updates can dramatically improve comfort, safety, and independence. High-impact areas include:

  • Bathrooms: zero-entry showers, grab bars, slip-resistant flooring
  • Kitchens: accessible storage, safer appliances, improved lighting
  • Doorways and corridors: widened entries, smoother transitions

Even small upgrades—better lighting, safer flooring materials, or improved hardware—can make daily living significantly easier and safer.

Planning Ahead for Safety and Comfort

Preparing your home for aging in place is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your independence. Falls remain the leading cause of injury among older adults, and homes without single-level living, curb-less showers, or accessible pathways often force injured homeowners into rehab facilities after an incident.

By planning early, you can:

  • Make thoughtful, cost-effective decisions before mobility becomes a concern
  • Avoid rushed renovations during a health crisis
  • Choose solutions tailored to both current and future needs
  • Spread improvements out over time to align with your budget

Advanced planning reduces stress, minimizes disruption, and ensures your home adapts to your changing lifestyle.

Renovation vs. Relocation: Understanding the Value

Choosing whether to renovate or move involves more than finances. Emotional connection to your home, daily living preferences, and long-term maintenance all factor into the decision. Working with a professional design-build remodeler—such as JFC Remodeling—can help you evaluate your options with clarity and confidence.

Once you commit to aging in place, the next steps include:

  1. Home Assessment: Hire a qualified professional to evaluate your home and identify modifications based on your needs.
  2. Prioritize High-Risk Areas: Start with essential updates in bathrooms, stairways, and heavily used spaces.
  3. Plan for the Future: Add modifications gradually as your health, mobility, and budget evolve.

Thoughtful renovation ensures your home remains safe, functional, and comfortable for years to come. Contact JFC Remodeling today for a fair and unbiased consultation you can trust.

________

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call or email us to learn more.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Jason Foldenauer Construction

Building an Indoor Pool: Planning, Design, and Essential Considerations

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Constructing an indoor, in-ground pool—whether for a commercial facility or a private residence—is a major investment that delivers year-round use, long-term value, and a luxury experience. Because indoor pools require more complex engineering than outdoor pools, planning, design, and professional expertise are essential.

What Type of Pool Works Best Inside an Enclosed Structure?

Selecting the right pool type is essential when building an indoor swimming pool. Concrete pools are often preferred due to their durability, design flexibility, and ability to be customized to any shape or size. They integrate well into architectural plans and hold up over time.

Because indoor pools create a high-moisture environment, it’s also important to account for ventilation and humidity control. Materials like wood or drywall can deteriorate quickly indoors if not properly protected. Choosing moisture-resistant building materials and installing an effective dehumidification system will help preserve the structure and prevent long-term issues such as mold or structural damage.

Can I Build My Pool Now and Add an Enclosure Later?

Yes—many homeowners and businesses choose to install the pool first and add the enclosure later. The key is planning the full layout upfront. Ideally, the enclosure footings should be installed at the same time as the pool deck, ensuring a smoother and more cost-effective construction process.

What Accessories Should I Consider for an Indoor Pool?

The right accessories can greatly enhance comfort, efficiency, and long-term performance. An automatic pool reel helps control evaporation, retain heat, reduce energy costs, and limit chemical loss—while allowing the pool to be covered or uncovered in under two minutes.

Radiant in-floor heating is another popular upgrade. It improves comfort, keeps surfaces warm, reduces condensation, and creates a more enjoyable environment around the pool. These additions contribute to a more energy-efficient and user-friendly indoor pool space.

How Do I Get Started Building a Pool and Enclosure Together?

If you plan to build both the pool and enclosure at the same time, early coordination is essential. Let your pool builder know you intend to add an enclosure, and involve your enclosure provider as soon as possible. Aligning both teams during the design and engineering phase ensures proper placement, structural support, and a seamless installation.

First Steps to Designing an Indoor Pool

Research and planning are the foundation of any successful indoor pool project. Establish a clear budget early in the process. It’s essential to work with an indoor pool designer, architect, and possibly an interior designer to create a functional and visually appealing indoor pool environment.

Consider important features such as changing rooms, showers, and reliable humidity control through properly installed air ducts and ventilation. Additional requirements include water drainage, safe storage of pool chemicals, and evaluation of structural elements such as glass ceilings or skylights—particularly in snowy climates.

Pound Pool Plastering, Inc. specializes in plastering, tiling, and coping for inground swimming pools. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

__________

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Pound Pool Plastering

Bus Duct Types: Segregated, Non-Segregated, & Isolated Phase

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Bus duct is essential for safely distributing electrical power in industrial and commercial settings. They come in three main types—segregated, non-segregated, and isolated phase—each designed for specific performance and safety needs.

Segregated Phase Bus Ducts


These systems keep each electrical phase separated by barriers to prevent faults and improve safety. They’re commonly used in power plants and large industrial sites where reliability is critical.

Non-Segregated Phase Bus Ducts


In this type, all phases share a common enclosure without barriers. They are less expensive and easier to install, making them ideal for commercial buildings and smaller industrial applications where fault risk is low and budgets are tighter.

Isolated Phase Bus Ducts


Each phase is completely enclosed in its own grounded housing, offering the highest level of protection and reliability. These are typically used in high-capacity generation facilities and critical infrastructure where downtime is unacceptable.

At J&P Electrical, our team specializes in refurbishing all types of bus duct systems, saving your company significant costs compared to purchasing new. Each refurbished unit is thoroughly inspected, tested, and restored to like-new condition—delivering reliable performance and long service life at a fraction of the cost of new equipment.

Have heavy electrical equipment to sell? J&P Electrical also buys and specializes in asset recovery. Contact us to buy or sell today.

__________

J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance. 

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

J & P Electrical Company

Powering Discovery: U.S. Invests $1B in AMD Supercomputers

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The U.S. Department of Energy and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) have announced a $1 billion partnership to build two next-generation supercomputers, named Lux and Discovery, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee. The systems are designed to accelerate research in nuclear energy, national security, and cancer treatment.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the new systems will “supercharge” innovation in nuclear and fusion energy, drug development, and defense technologies by providing unprecedented computational power. The Lux system, co-developed with AMD, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Oracle Cloud, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory, will launch within six months and deliver roughly three times the AI capacity of current U.S. supercomputers.

Powered by AMD’s new MI355X AI chips, Lux marks the fastest large-scale supercomputer deployment in U.S. history. The second system, Discovery, featuring AMD’s upcoming MI430 chips, is expected to be available in 2029 and will further expand America’s high-performance computing and AI capabilities.

Supercomputers handle calculations millions to billions of times faster than standard laptops by connecting thousands of processors that work simultaneously—a technique called parallel processing. Learn more about how supercomputers operate here. 

Both systems will support joint public-private research, with the DOE hosting the machines and partners sharing access. Officials say this collaboration signals the start of a new era of U.S. investment in supercomputing infrastructure to accelerate scientific discovery and maintain global competitiveness in AI and energy innovation.

The U.S. hosts over 170 supercomputers, including five of the world’s ten most powerful. China and Germany follow in second and third place for total systems (view breakdown).

View original Reuters and Tom’s Hardware articles. 

_________

Founded in 1994, Creative Programs and Systems delivers professional results for all your computer needs. We design, create, and code various custom software programs and websites. Additionally, we offer superior digital marketing services, including enhanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and paid advertising. We also repair and support commercial computer infrastructure, build custom systems and servers, and provide secure data backups. Need assistance or want to learn more? Call (810)224-5252 or email info@cpsmi.com us!

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Creative Programs and Systems

The Best Winter Pool Covers for Inground Pools

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Most of us in Michigan and other northern states have already closed our pools for the season. As cold weather sets in, your pool deserves more than a simple tarp. The right winter pool cover protects your investment, keeps your water clean, and saves you hours of work come spring. Here’s how to choose the best option for your inground pool.

Why a Quality Winter Cover Matters

A good cover does more than keep out leaves—it shields your pool from freezing damage, reduces chemical loss, and keeps pets and people safe. Investing in a durable winter cover helps extend the life of your pool and makes opening season stress-free.

Winter Pool Safety Covers – The Premium Choice

If you want the best protection and a clean look all winter, a safety cover is your go-to option.

  • How it works: Anchored into the surrounding deck, it’s stretched tight across the pool for a sleek finish.
  • Available types:
    • Mesh safety covers: Let rain and snow drain through while blocking debris. Lightweight and easy to handle.
    • Solid safety covers: Keep everything out—including water and sunlight—but require a pump to remove standing water.

Safety covers are ideal for pool owners who want long-term reliability and peace of mind. They’re custom-fitted to your pool and built to last season after season.

Winter Pool Tarps – The Budget-Friendly Alternative

For those looking to protect their pool without breaking the bank, winter pool tarps do the job. They sit directly over the water and are secured with water bags or tubes.
Look for these features when choosing one:

  • High scrim count (8×8 or higher) for tear resistance
  • Thicker, reinforced material for better durability
  • Longer warranty (10–20 years is best)

Green tarps are generally stronger and resist punctures from birds and branches better than thinner blue options.

Automatic Pool Covers – Not for Winter

Automatic covers are great during swim season for keeping out daily debris, but they’re not designed for winter loads. Snow and ice can damage the system. For full winter protection, pair your automatic cover with a separate winter safety cover.

Mesh vs. Solid – Which Wins?

If you want low maintenance and reliability, choose mesh. It drains rainwater and snowmelt naturally, so there’s no sagging or pumping required. Solid covers completely block sunlight and debris but require constant upkeep to remove standing water.

Our pick: Dense mesh safety covers—strong, clean-looking, and built for all climates.

Protect Your Investment This Winter

Your inground pool deserves a cover that works as hard as you do. Whether you choose a top-tier mesh safety cover or a heavy-duty winter tarp, the right protection keeps your pool safe, clean, and ready for next season.

___________________

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Pound Pool Plastering

High-Quality Reconditioned Transformers for Fast Turnaround

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Choosing refurbished transformers from J&P Electrical offers major advantages. Refurbished units cost less than new ones and are available with much shorter lead times—ideal for projects that can’t wait. Opting for a remanufactured transformer also reduces environmental impact by giving existing equipment a second life instead of relying on new manufacturing.

At J&P Electrical, every used transformer is carefully inspected to ensure it’s worth restoring. Our technicians rebuild each unit to like-new condition using high-quality materials and advanced techniques. Every transformer is rigorously tested for performance, safety, and durability before leaving our facility, giving you dependable operation and long service life—at a fraction of the cost of new equipment.

We stock and refurbish transformers from top manufacturers such as Federal Pacific, GE, Siemens, and Westinghouse. Options include single- and three-phase dry-type units ranging from 1 to 2500 kVA. Our extensive industry network allows us to source hard-to-find voltages for specialized or international applications.

All refurbished transformers are backed by a full one-year warranty. Whether you need a quick replacement or a budget-friendly solution that performs like new, J&P Electrical delivers reliable, high-performance transformers ready to meet your power needs.

Contact us today to find the right refurbished transformer for your operation.

__________

J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance. 

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

J & P Electrical Company

Why Partnering with the Right Construction Surety Bond Company Matters

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Surety bonds are essential in the construction industry for managing risk among multiple parties and large financial commitments. They ensure that owners, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers can trust one another to fulfill obligations and receive agreed-upon payments or services.

Surety bonds protect all parties involved in a project, helping ensure that work is completed as promised and financial obligations are met. Below, we highlight why choosing the right surety bond company is key to strengthening your projects, protecting your business, and ensuring long-term success.

Finding the Best Surety Bond Company in and Around Michigan

Partnering with the right construction surety bond company can make all the difference in the success of your projects. Navigating the bond market can be complex, with many providers, bond types, and state-specific regulations. For contractors and businesses, working with a trusted surety bond specialist is the most effective way to secure the right coverage.

An experienced bonding partner not only provides access to reputable, Treasury-listed, and AM Best-rated surety markets but also understands the unique financial and regulatory requirements of the construction industry. The right company will guide you through prequalification, ensure compliance with state laws, and help secure favorable bond terms that protect your business. More importantly, a knowledgeable surety bond specialist can anticipate potential issues before they arise—saving you valuable time, money, and stress.

With trusted professionals like Construction Bonding Specialists in Michigan, contractors gain a strategic partner dedicated to helping them qualify, bid, and build with confidence.

The Importance of Communication in Surety Bonding

Strong communication is the foundation of any successful surety relationship. By maintaining open communication with both your surety agent and bonding company, contractors can build trust, streamline approvals, and create more reliable long-term partnerships.

When everyone is aligned and expectations are clear, friction is minimized—and projects are far more likely to move forward smoothly and successfully.

How Construction Bonding Specialists Can Help

Construction Bonding Specialists provides expert assistance with all types of construction surety bonds. Their team guides clients through every step of the bonding process and helps ensure compliance with state and industry requirements.

As experienced surety professionals, Construction Bonding Specialists handle performance bonds, payment bonds, bid bonds, and more throughout Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas. They maintain strong partnerships with leading surety providers to help contractors compare rates, qualify quickly, and meet underwriting criteria efficiently.

Whether you’re a new contractor applying for your first bond or an established construction firm managing multiple projects, Construction Bonding Specialists offers personalized support to ensure you get bonded quickly and confidently. Contact them today to find the solution that’s right for you.

________

At Construction Bonding Specialists, we work with new and experienced contractors to find the most satisfactory bond solutions. As a dedicated surety-bond-only agency with decades of bonding experience, we strive to discover surety solutions for all types of cases, ranging from routine to challenging. Contact us online or call us at 248-349-6227 to learn more.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Construction Bonding Specialists

Termite Awareness 2025: Detect Early, Protect Smart

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

If you’ve noticed wood damage, mud tubes, or hollow-sounding walls, you could be seeing signs of a termite infestation. Often called “silent destroyers,” termites quietly eat through wood, flooring, and even wallpaper. In 2025, termite-related property damage in the U.S. is estimated to exceed $7 billion annually, making prevention and early detection more critical than ever.

Common Places Termites Hide

Termites thrive in warm, moist environments. Infestations often begin in spring and summer, but colonies also seek the warmth of heated homes in fall and winter. Because they typically hide where homeowners rarely look, yearly professional inspections are strongly recommended.

Common hiding spots:

  • Attics, basements, and crawl spaces
  • Cracks or gaps in walls and foundations
  • Cardboard boxes, storage bags, and old paper
  • Electrical wiring or outlets
  • Soft or hollow-sounding wood
  • Under sinks and around plumbing
  • Inside cupboards and shelving

Growing Financial and Structural Risk

These tiny pests have an enormous impact. Termites compromise structural integrity, drain finances, and cause legal and insurance challenges for property owners, real estate professionals, and investors alike. Each year, more than 600,000 U.S. homes experience termite damage. Beyond the cost of repairs, infestations can lower property value, void warranties, delay home sales, and even result in disclosure disputes.

Because most insurance policies classify termite damage as preventable, homeowners are often left to cover repair and treatment costs themselves. Prevention is the most effective—and affordable—strategy.

Modern, Eco-Conscious Solutions

Traditional termite treatments, such as chemical barriers, soil termiticides, and bait systems, can work but have limitations and are increasingly constrained by environmental regulations. Newer biodegradable, non-toxic soil treatments are changing the game. These solutions form pheromone-mimic trails that guide termites toward bait stations rather than your home, improving detection, accelerating colony elimination, and keeping you, your pets, and beneficial insects safe.

This smarter, sustainable approach offers stronger long-term protection while supporting eco-friendly pest management.

Safeguard Your Home from Termites

  • Keep firewood, mulch, and wood debris away from your home’s foundation.
  • Ensure proper drainage to reduce moisture buildup.
  • Regularly inspect enclosed spaces—attics, crawl spaces, cupboards—for damage or swarmers (winged termites) that appear in early spring.

Why You Need Professional Pest Control

Termite removal is not a DIY project. These pests often nest deep within walls, floors, and foundations—areas homeowners can’t effectively reach or treat. Store-bought sprays may kill visible termites but leave the colony intact, allowing damage to continue unseen.

A professional inspection from Northern Pest ensures accurate detection, targeted treatment, and long-term prevention. Our experts use advanced tools and proven methods to eliminate colonies at the source and protect your home from future infestations. If you suspect termite activity, don’t delay—schedule a ground-to-roof inspection today for a smarter, safer way to secure your property and peace of mind.

_______

Northern Pest: Protecting Michigan families like our own. We are licensed and insured to provide insect and wildlife pest control. Our crew has the expertise to track wildlife entry points and remove pests of all kinds, including our licensed builders, who can make any of the necessary repairs caused by wildlife. Northern Pest is a member of the MDAT and the NWCOA. We are certified by the IICRC to provide professional mold mitigation services resulting from animal damage. From prevention to repair, Northern Pest is your full-service solution.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Northern Pest

Fall Rodent Prevention: Act Before They Move In

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

As autumn arrives and temperatures drop, mice and other rodents begin looking for warm shelter—and your home may be their target. Once inside, they can chew wiring, contaminate food, and damage insulation and structures.

Front Range Pest’s Fall Defense Plan

The best defense is prevention. Our fall rodent prevention service helps protect your home through:

  • Comprehensive Inspection – We examine your property from foundation to roofline to uncover entry points and nesting areas.
  • Sealing & Repairs – Following inspection, we provide repair and sealing options to block future intrusions.
  • Targeted Treatment – We deploy secure, tamper-resistant bait stations, traps, and structural barriers to eliminate activity and prevent re-entry.
  • Environmental Guidance – Our experts offer recommendations to reduce attractants like clutter and vegetation near structures.
  • Ongoing Protection – Enroll in our recurring service program for continuous monitoring and maintenance throughout the year.

Stopping rodents before they settle is simpler, safer, and far less costly than managing an active infestation.

Schedule Before the Season Ends

Colorado’s fall season moves quickly, and pests don’t wait. Secure your home with a full barrier treatment and rodent prevention service before the first cold snap. Front Range Pest serves homeowners across Colorado and Wyoming with comprehensive, seasonally tailored pest control.

Protect your home, family, and peace of mind—contact Front Range Pest today to schedule your fall service and stay pest-free all winter.

________

Front Range Pest is your trusted, family-owned pest and wildlife control company serving central Colorado and southern Wyoming. Our certified technicians have the expertise and credentials to ensure effective pest management for your home or business. As your all-in-one insect and wildlife specialists, we offer peace of mind by identifying wildlife entry points, removing nuisance pests, sealing access areas, performing cleanup, and making essential repairs. Schedule an inspection with us today.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Front Range Pest

Using Stone to Elevate Your Bathroom into Your Dream Oasis

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Step into serenity. Picture a bathroom that feels like a high-end spa—calm, elegant, and indulgent. With thoughtful design and premium materials, JFC Remodeling can transform your bath into a luxurious retreat.

Natural Stone Vanity

Begin your spa-like space with a natural stone vanity. Marble, quartzite, or onyx offers unmatched beauty and durability. Each slab’s distinct patterns and tones create a tranquil focal point that blends sophistication with the serenity of nature. For a modern yet timeless look, consider polished quartz or quartzite surfaces that reflect soft, calming light.

Freestanding Soaking Tub

A freestanding soaking tub is the centerpiece of relaxation. Surrounded by natural stone or porcelain, it becomes a true statement of luxury. The smooth curves of the tub contrast beautifully with the texture of quartz, granite, or large-format porcelain walls—creating a space that soothes the senses and transforms every bath into a peaceful ritual.

Heated Stone or Porcelain Flooring

Elevate comfort with heated flooring. Step onto marble, travertine, or porcelain tiles that not only radiate warmth but also exude elegance. The gentle heat enhances relaxation, making even cold mornings feel like a visit to your favorite spa.

Stone or Porcelain Accent Walls

Bring depth and texture to your bathroom with a stone or porcelain accent wall. Slate, quartz, travertine, or porcelain slabs create a natural focal point that embodies calm and sophistication. Whether behind your soaking tub or shower, these materials offer timeless style and organic beauty.

Walk-In Shower with Stone or Porcelain Bench

A spacious walk-in shower defines spa luxury. Clad in granite, quartzite, or porcelain it combines durability with elegance. Add a matching stone or porcelain bench to complete the experience—a place to unwind beneath a warm rain shower surrounded by serene textures.

Your Personal Spa Awaits

With the right materials and design expertise, every day can begin and end in tranquility. From warm stone floors to elegant vanities, JFC Remodeling brings craftsmanship and care to every detail.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and free estimate. Our team understands the importance of maintaining a time-sensitive plan to minimize downtime during renovation. We make every effort to get the job done properly—without cutting corners.

_________

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call or email us to learn more.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Jason Foldenauer Construction