Livingston Reporting

Understanding Bat Safety and Awareness in Michigan Communities

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Recent incidents across Michigan have renewed attention on the risks associated with bat exposure and the importance of proper wildlife management. In September 2025, the Grand Traverse County Health Department (GTCHD) confirmed that a bat found inside a residence tested positive for rabies.

In a separate incident, the Barry-Eaton District Health Department (BEDHD) reported that a bat found in Barry County tested positive for rabies in December 2025. Health officials confirmed that all individuals identified as potentially exposed are receiving appropriate post-exposure medical care.

Understanding the Risk of Rabies

According to Michigan.gov, rabies is a preventable viral disease that affects mammals and is most commonly transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. In the United States, rabies is primarily found in wildlife such as bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes. The virus attacks the central nervous system and, without prompt medical treatment following exposure, can lead to severe brain infection and death.

Rabies prevention includes keeping pets properly vaccinated, avoiding contact with wildlife and stray animals, and seeking immediate medical attention after a bite—before symptoms appear.

To learn more about rabies, visit the Michigan.gov website.

How to Protect Your Family and Home

Local and state health officials strongly encourage residents to remain vigilant and take preventative measures to reduce the risk of rabies exposure. Recommended precautions include:

  • Avoid direct contact with wild animals, especially bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes.
  • Keep all pets up to date on rabies vaccinations, including dogs, cats, ferrets, horses, cattle, and sheep.
  • Secure your home by sealing gaps, vents, and other openings that could allow bats to enter.
  • Never handle bats or other wildlife with your bare hands.
  • If a bat is found in your home, do not release it. Safely contain it without direct contact, contact your local health department regarding possible exposure, and call a licensed wildlife or pest control professional for assistance.
  • Seek immediate medical attention if you are bitten, scratched, or have direct contact with a bat or other wild animal.

Professional Bat Eviction and Cleanup Services

The specialists at Northern Pest are trained, equipped, and experienced in safely and effectively resolving bat issues. Our bat eviction process uses specialized exclusion devices designed to allow bats to exit the structure naturally while preventing their return.

After conducting a comprehensive inspection to locate all entry points, our technicians install one-way exclusion valves over those openings. Once the bats have fully vacated, the devices are removed and all access points are permanently sealed to prevent re-entry.

Following eviction, our restoration team addresses the cleanup and repair process. This includes removing bat guano and contaminated materials, disinfecting affected areas, replacing damaged insulation, drywall, or flooring, and restoring the space to a clean, safe condition. When we’re finished, your attic or affected area is returned to like-new condition.

A Humane and Responsible Approach

One of the most common questions we receive is whether our bat eviction process harms the bats. Northern Pest is committed to humane wildlife control. Bats are a protected species and play a vital role in the ecosystem, particularly in controlling insect populations.

Our eviction methods are designed to be ethical and non-lethal. We do not exterminate bats. Instead, we encourage them to relocate safely and prevent future access to your home—protecting both your family and the bat colony.

If you suspect bat activity in your home or have concerns about potential exposure, contact Northern Pest for a professional inspection and peace of mind.

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Northern Pest: Protecting Michigan families like our own. We are licensed and insured to provide pest control for insects and wildlife. 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/.

Creative Programs and Systems

IT Support — Simplified for 2026

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Technology should enable your business—not slow it down. As IT environments grow more complex and security threats continue to evolve, businesses need reliable, responsive IT support they can count on. In 2026, simplicity, security, and uptime matter more than ever.

CPS delivers comprehensive IT services designed to reduce downtime, improve system reliability, and protect your business-critical data—so you can stay focused on what matters most.

Reliable IT Support When You Need It Most

CPS provides a full range of IT services that keep systems running smoothly and issues resolved quickly. Our proactive approach helps prevent problems before they disrupt operations.

Our IT Services Include:

  • 24/7 system and network monitoring to identify and resolve issues before they impact productivity
  • Server and workstation installation and maintenance for stable, reliable performance
  • IT system and security audits to strengthen protection and support compliance requirements
  • Managed antivirus and system health monitoring for proactive threat detection
  • Custom-built PCs and servers designed specifically for your business environment
  • Data backup and recovery services to safeguard critical information and minimize risk
  • Employee troubleshooting and end-user support for fast, efficient issue resolution
  • Vendor coordination with a single, trusted point of contact

Hybrid IT Services Built Around Your Business

Not every business needs the same level of IT support—and that’s exactly why CPS offers flexible hybrid IT services. Whether you require occasional break/fix assistance or a fully managed IT environment, we tailor our services to match your needs.

You choose the level of support. Our experts handle the rest—everything from strategic planning and system optimization to data recovery and long-term technology guidance.

We Make IT Easy

At CPS, our goal is simple: make information technology work for you. We design, implement, and support systems that improve efficiency, enhance security, and scale with your business.

Over 30 Years of Trusted IT Experience

For more than 30 years, CPS has helped businesses maximize their technology investments through tailored solutions spanning hardware, infrastructure, and custom software development. Our experienced IT professionals take the time to understand how your business operates, delivering solutions that support growth, security, and long-term success.

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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

Winterizing a Saltwater Pool in Michigan: Don’t Forget the Salt Cell

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Properly winterizing your saltwater pool is essential in Michigan, where freezing temperatures can cause serious damage if equipment isn’t handled correctly. While the overall pool-closing process is similar to any other pool, saltwater systems require one important extra step: protecting the salt cell during winter.

Salt cells stop producing chlorine once water temperatures drop below about 50–60°F. This is normal and helps preserve the life of the system, since colder water reduces chlorine demand and limits algae and bacteria growth. During this time, pool sanitation is typically maintained with traditional chlorine methods.

Because Michigan winters bring prolonged freezing conditions, salt cells should be removed, cleaned, and stored indoors before closing the pool. Leaving a salt cell installed can lead to freeze damage if trapped water expands inside the unit, potentially cracking the housing or damaging the internal plates—often resulting in costly replacement.

Many pool owners choose to install a dummy cell in place of the salt cell for winter. This keeps plumbing properly aligned and protected through seasonal freeze-thaw cycles, making spring start-up easier and safer.

If you reopen your pool in spring and notice low chlorine levels, winter damage to the salt cell may be the cause. The best solution is prevention—removing and storing the salt cell each winter helps protect your investment and ensures your pool is ready for the season ahead.

For professional pool plaster finishes for residential and commercial applications—including ceramic tile repair and replacement, porcelain and glass tile, frost-proof coping replacement, and more—contact Pound Pool in southeast Michigan to schedule a consultation.

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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

Kitchen Layouts in 2026: Beyond the Work Triangle

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

At JFC Remodeling, we’re seeing a clear shift toward kitchen layouts that better reflect how homeowners in Southeast Michigan actually use their kitchens today. For decades, the kitchen work triangle—linking the sink, stove, and refrigerator—served as the gold standard in design, prioritizing efficiency by minimizing steps and streamlining everyday cooking. While this concept still has value, today’s designers agree that modern kitchens are moving beyond a one-size-fits-all approach.

Why the Traditional Kitchen Triangle Has Limits

The kitchen work triangle works well for solo cooks in smaller spaces, but it doesn’t always support today’s busy households. Modern kitchens are no longer just cooking zones—they’re gathering spaces, homework hubs, coffee stations, and entertainment centers.

When islands, multiple cooks, kids grabbing snacks, or guests gathering get in the way, the traditional triangle can create traffic bottlenecks rather than efficiency. That’s why designers now look beyond appliance placement to consider lifestyle factors such as:

  • Household size and routines
  • Cooking and entertaining habits
  • Traffic flow and accessibility
  • Long-term flexibility as needs change

A successful kitchen remodel balances function and comfort—not just efficiency for one cook.

The Rise of Kitchen Zones

Instead of relying solely on the work triangle, today’s kitchens are designed around zones. This approach breaks the kitchen into dedicated areas based on tasks, allowing multiple people to use the space at the same time without disruption.

Common kitchen zones include:

  • Food prep
  • Cooking
  • Cleanup
  • Dry food and pantry storage

Additional lifestyle-driven zones may include:

  • Coffee or beverage stations
  • Baking areas
  • Snack zones for kids
  • Dining or hangout spaces
  • Drop zones for mail and devices

Zoning creates a more intuitive, flexible kitchen layout that supports both daily routines and entertaining.

Designing a Kitchen That Works for Your Life

During a kitchen renovation, designers carefully study how each zone will be used and how they interact. High-traffic zones are kept efficient and close together, while secondary zones are placed along the perimeter to reduce congestion.

For example:

  • Snack and drink zones can be positioned away from the main cooking area
  • Dishwashers are placed for easy access to storage without crossing cooking paths
  • Pantries may include secondary appliances to reduce clutter in the main kitchen

This thoughtful planning helps reduce unnecessary steps while keeping the space open and functional.

A Smarter Approach to Kitchen Remodeling

The kitchen work triangle isn’t disappearing—but it’s no longer the rule. Zone-based kitchen design allows homeowners to create spaces that feel custom, efficient, and adaptable to modern life. If you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel in Southeast Michigan, JFC Remodeling can help you design a space that reflects how you live today—and how you’ll live tomorrow.

Contact JFC Remodeling to start planning a kitchen renovation that combines smart design, craftsmanship, and long-term value.

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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

Michigan’s Rising Energy Demand: What It Means for Industry, Infrastructure, and Electrical Supply

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Michigan’s energy landscape is undergoing significant change. According to the Michigan Public Service Commission’s (MPSC) Winter Energy Appraisal for 2025–2026, demand for both electricity and natural gas is expected to rise, adding pressure to infrastructure, pricing, and long-term planning across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.

Growing Demand, Adequate Supply

The MPSC projects electricity demand to increase 2.9% in 2025, reaching approximately 100.46 terawatt-hours, up from 98.8 TWh in 2024. Residential demand leads the increase at 5.8%, followed by commercial growth of 3.2%, while industrial demand is expected to dip slightly by 0.6%.

Natural gas usage is also forecast to rise 3.3% overall, driven by strong growth in:

  • Commercial demand: +14.4%
  • Residential demand: +13.9%
  • Industrial demand: +12.1%

At the same time, natural gas used for electric generation is expected to decline 10.8%, reflecting continued shifts in generation strategies.

Despite rising demand, the appraisal indicates no anticipated supply shortages. Independent system operators serving Michigan, along with the state’s capacity demonstration process, confirm that sufficient generation and transmission capacity is available to meet projected needs.

Energy Prices Continue to Climb

While supply remains stable, costs are trending upward. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) forecasts average residential electricity prices in the East North Central region to reach 17.57 cents per kWh in 2025, a 6.3% increase year over year. Actual prices in Michigan will continue to vary by utility.

Fuel costs show mixed movement:

  • Residential propane averaged $2.16 per gallon in October 2025, unchanged from 2024.
  • No. 2 heating oil began the season at $3.13 per gallon, up slightly year over year.
  • Midwest gasoline prices are expected to average $2.96 per gallon in 2025 before dropping to $2.65 in 2026, with gasoline demand declining modestly.

Utility Rate Hikes Add Pressure

In March 2025, the MPSC approved a $154 million electric rate increase for Consumers Energy. Although the approved amount was significantly lower than the utility’s original $325 million request, it follows another rate hike approved just a year earlier. These recurring increases underscore the growing cost burden on Michigan ratepayers, even as energy demand continues to rise.

The Impact of AI and Data Centers

A major driver behind increasing electricity demand nationwide is the rapid expansion of AI-driven data centers. Investment in data center infrastructure now exceeds what the U.S. spent to build the entire interstate highway system (inflation-adjusted). These facilities require massive, continuous power loads, placing additional strain on regional grids.

As utilities invest heavily in new generation, transmission, and grid upgrades to support this growth, costs are often passed on to customers—contributing to higher electric bills for residential and commercial users alike.

What This Means for Industrial Operations

For manufacturers, utilities, and large-scale facilities, these trends highlight the importance of:

  • Reliable, scalable electrical infrastructure
  • Efficient power distribution equipment
  • Forward-looking planning to accommodate load growth and rate volatility

At J&P Electrical Company, we support industrial customers navigating this evolving energy environment by supplying large-scale, high-quality electrical equipment designed to meet increasing demand while maintaining reliability and compliance. As Michigan’s energy needs continue to grow, having the right electrical infrastructure in place will be more critical than ever.

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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

Surety Bond Costs and What Drives Your Premium

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Surety bonds are a routine requirement across the construction industry, but securing the right bond doesn’t have to strain your budget. Understanding how bond costs are calculated—and what influences your rate—helps you make informed decisions as you prepare for upcoming projects.

What Surety Bonds Typically Cost

Surety bond premiums are charged as a percentage of the total bond amount. Most contractors fall within the 1%–5% range, though rates can dip to 0.5% for highly qualified applicants or rise to 20% in higher-risk situations.

Your rate reflects the surety’s assessment of your ability to fulfill contract obligations. For example:

  • A contractor with strong credit, solid financials, and a track record of successful work may secure a 1% rate on a $500,000 bond—paying $5,000.
  • A contractor with weak financials or poor performance history might pay 6% or $30,000 for the same bond.

Key Factors That Influence Surety Bond Rates

Sureties consider several factors when determining the risk they are assuming. The most significant include:

Bond Type:Risk varies by bond category.

  • Low-risk bonds, such as notary or probate bonds, often have lower rates.
  • Higher-risk bonds, like performance and payment bonds for complex construction work, typically come with higher premiums.

Bond Amount:Larger bond amounts carry greater exposure for the surety. Even if two contractors have similar qualifications, a $300,000 bond often commands a higher rate than a $30,000 bond because of the higher financial risk.

Credit Profile:Personal and business credit are central to underwriting. Strong credit signals reliability and increases the likelihood of favorable rates. Poor or limited credit usually results in higher premiums.

Financial Strength: Sureties evaluate working capital, liquidity, and overall financial stability. Contractors with strong balance sheets are more likely to secure lower rates because they pose less default risk.

Industry Experience: Experience matters—particularly with contract bonds. Sureties consider your technical capabilities, staffing, financial resources, and history of successfully completing similar projects. Limited experience or inconsistent performance can drive rates higher.

Claims History:A clean claims record demonstrates reliability. Frequent or significant past claims may indicate performance issues, increase perceived risk, and raise your premium.

Reputation and Character: Underwriters also look at less tangible indicators of reliability: communication practices, management stability, subcontractor relationships, and payment history. Contractors known for professionalism and integrity often benefit from more competitive rates.

Making Surety Costs Work for You

Surety bond pricing is shaped by both the scope of the project and the financial strength of the contractor. By improving credit, reinforcing financials, and building a consistent track record of successful projects, contractors can secure better rates and gain a competitive edge in bidding.

Construction Bonding Specialists supports contractors through every stage of the bonding process. Our team provides expert guidance across all construction bond types and ensures clients meet state and industry requirements with confidence. Contact us today to get started.

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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

Bed Bugs in Lodging Facilities: What Hotels, B&Bs, and Timeshares Need to Know

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Bed bugs are parasitic insects that feed exclusively on human blood, making hotels, B&Bs, and timeshares especially vulnerable. Measuring just 1 to 7 millimeters, they can survive for months without feeding and spread easily from room to room through luggage, linens, housekeeping carts, and shared walls.

Their flat bodies allow them to hide in areas commonly found in guest accommodations, including mattress seams, box springs, upholstered furniture, headboards, nightstands, baseboards, and even electrical outlets. Because they are nocturnal and excellent at concealing themselves, infestations often go unnoticed until guests report bites or visible signs—by which point the issue may have already spread.

For lodging properties, bed bugs are more than a pest problem. They pose a serious reputational risk, can lead to negative reviews, room closures, lost revenue, and potential liability. Professional detection and treatment are critical to protecting both guests and your business.

How Bed Bugs Are Introduced Into Homes and Buildings

Bed bugs are expert hitchhikers. They commonly enter homes through travel-related exposure, including hotels, airports, and rideshare vehicles. They can also be brought in on used furniture or spread between units in apartments, condos, and other multi-unit buildings.

Because they are so small, most people do not realize they have picked up bed bugs until the infestation is already established. Even clean, well-maintained homes are at risk, as bed bugs are not attracted to dirt or clutter—they are attracted to people.

Signs You May Have Bed Bugs

One of the most common indicators of bed bugs is waking up with bite marks, often appearing in lines or clusters on exposed skin. However, not everyone reacts to bed bug bites, which can delay detection.

Other warning signs include:

  • Rust-colored stains on sheets or mattresses
  • Small black dots (bed bug droppings) on bedding
  • Shed skins near mattress seams or furniture
  • A musty or slightly sweet odor in sleeping areas
  • Live bugs in severe infestations

Carefully inspecting mattress seams, box springs, bed frames, and nearby furniture can help confirm a problem.

What to Do If You Discover Bed Bugs in a Commercial Property

If bed bugs are suspected in a hotel, B&B, timeshare, or other commercial lodging property, quick and controlled action is critical. Avoid moving furniture, linens, or equipment between rooms, as this can spread bed bugs to unaffected areas. Immediately remove the affected room from service and seal it off until a professional inspection can be completed.

Bag all bedding and washable items in sealed plastic bags before transporting them to laundry facilities, and wash and dry on high heat. Limit access to the room and notify housekeeping and management so proper containment procedures can be followed. Vacuuming mattresses, furniture, and flooring may help reduce activity but should only be done as a short-term measure, with vacuums emptied and disposed of properly to prevent spread.

Bed bugs are highly resistant to DIY treatments, and missed eggs or hidden insects can quickly restart an infestation. For commercial properties, professional treatment is essential to ensure full elimination and to protect neighboring rooms and units.

Heat treatment is one of the most effective solutions for commercial settings, as it kills bed bugs at all life stages, including eggs. This method requires specialized equipment and trained technicians to safely and thoroughly treat the space without damaging property. Partnering with a licensed pest control professional ensures proper containment, effective treatment, and minimal disruption to your operations.

Professional Bed Bug Control for Residential and Commercial Properties in Michigan

Bed bugs are extremely difficult to eliminate without professional treatment due to their ability to hide, resist common methods, and survive for long periods without feeding. This makes expert intervention essential for both homes and commercial properties.

Northern Pest provides reliable bed bug control services throughout Michigan, using proven, effective treatments to eliminate infestations and help prevent spread. Early detection and professional response can reduce downtime, limit disruption, and protect occupants and guests. Contact Northern Pest to schedule an inspection and take the first step toward resolving a bed bug issue with confidence.

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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

New Lyme Disease Discovery Reinforces the Need for Year-Round Tick Prevention

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Recent scientific research has identified an unexpected weakness in Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterium that causes Lyme disease. The study revealed that the organism relies on the mineral manganese to defend itself against the body’s immune response. However, this dependence is also a liability: when manganese levels are either too low or too high, the bacterium’s protective mechanisms break down, making it easier to destroy.

This finding opens the door to potential new treatment strategies that disrupt how B. burgdorferi regulates manganese. With Lyme disease cases continuing to increase and existing treatments often proving complex, identifying this vulnerability represents a promising step toward more effective therapies.

Ticks Remain Active in Colorado—Even in Colder Months

Unlike many pests that disappear as temperatures drop, ticks remain active throughout fall, winter, and spring in Colorado. They continue to pose health risks because they transmit serious diseases and feed on a variety of hosts, including dogs, cats, deer, chipmunks, squirrels, and mice. Ticks do not fly or jump; instead, they wait on vegetation and attach to passing animals or people using sensory cues.

The most common tick species found in Colorado include:

  • Winter ticks: Winter ticks mainly infest large mammals such as elk, moose, and deer, and occasionally horses. They spend most of their life cycle on a single host, which can lead to heavy infestations causing hair loss, skin irritation, anemia, and weakened animals. While they rarely transmit disease to humans, they can bite people incidentally. Winter ticks are most active from late fall through early spring and are commonly found in Colorado’s foothills and mountain areas where wildlife is abundant.
  • Rocky Mountain wood ticks: Rocky Mountain wood ticks are among the most medically significant ticks in Colorado and are commonly found in shrublands, grasslands, and wooded areas at higher elevations. They can transmit serious diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Colorado tick fever, and tularemia. Adults are most active in spring and early summer and readily attach to humans, dogs, and livestock, making prevention and prompt removal especially important.
  • American dog tick: American dog ticks are widespread in Colorado and commonly found in grassy areas, along trails, and near homes. They frequently bite dogs and humans and can transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia. Most active from late spring through summer, they do not spread Lyme disease but still pose significant health risks, especially to pets without proper tick prevention.

Ways to Reduce Tick Exposure

Routine inspections by a licensed pest control professional can help identify tick-prone areas on your property and allow for targeted treatments to reduce activity. For best results, tick and mosquito control should begin early in the summer and continue as needed throughout the season.

Additional prevention measures include:

  • Avoid contact with tall grass and dense vegetation, particularly in wooded areas
  • Wear light-colored clothing and tuck pants into socks to make ticks easier to spot
  • Conduct thorough tick checks on people and pets after outdoor activity
  • Use veterinarian-recommended tick prevention products year-round and ask about canine vaccinations
  • Reduce rodent populations around the home, as rodents often carry ticks
  • Consider natural predators such as guinea fowl, which feed on ticks

For safe tick removal, use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick close to the skin and pull upward steadily until it releases.

Because every property is different, Front Range Pest can help identify the most effective tick management approach for your home. Contact us today to learn how to better protect your family and pets year-round.

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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

Buying Over Building: Why Developers Are Shifting to Acquisitions

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The multifamily landscape is undergoing a fundamental shift. Developers known for large-scale, ground-up construction are putting their shovels aside and redirecting capital toward acquiring existing apartment communities. What began as a response to rising development challenges is rapidly becoming a long-term investment strategy—and it’s reshaping how multifamily growth will look over the next decade.

Why Developers Are Moving from Building to Buying

Across the mid-Atlantic and nationwide, developers are finding that acquiring an existing property is—plain and simple—more economical than starting from scratch.

Ground-up multifamily construction now comes with cap rates hovering around 6.5%, while acquisition opportunities often sit between 5.75% and 6.25%. The spread may seem small, but in a high-cost, high-rate environment, that difference can dramatically shift returns.

This financial reality is pushing even development-focused firms to redirect resources into acquisition pipelines. The reasoning is straightforward: buying existing assets often delivers stronger returns than building new ones in today’s market.

Rising Development Barriers Are Fueling the Shift

Several forces have converged to make new development increasingly difficult:

  • Tariffs and material inflation
  • Labor shortages and rising construction wages
  • Higher insurance costs
  • Elevated interest rates
  • Longer approval and permitting timelines

Developers describe the environment as “death by a thousand cuts”—a series of small but compounding pressures that erode project feasibility. As a result, many firms are moving into acquisition mode to maintain deal flow and investor returns.

Developers at the Forefront

Several major developers have already restructured their pipelines. Bozzuto Group, for example, partnered with Invesco on a $330M fund targeting up to $1B in acquisitions, focusing on post-2000 apartment communities. Others, like Shoreham Capital, Jefferson Apartment Group, and Menkiti Group are dramatically expanding their acquisition volume—often with a value-add strategy to enhance returns.

A Looming Supply Shortage Is Driving the Trend

According to Avison Young, multifamily starts are down 47.4% year-over-year. After record production in 2022, developers are now facing dramatically fewer viable ground-up opportunities.

Fewer new projects today will likely lead to a shortage of apartments in the future. Experts say investors who buy properties in 2025–2026 will be in a strong position when demand rises and supply tightens.

Why Buying Existing Properties Makes Strategic Sense

1. Faster Scaling: Acquisitions allow developers to grow portfolios immediately, without the multi-year timeline of ground-up builds.

2. Lower Risk: Existing properties offer clearer performance data, stabilized rents, and fewer unknowns—reducing development and financial risk.

3. Value-Add Opportunities:Light renovations, operational improvements, and amenity upgrades can significantly increase NOI and property value.

4. Better Positioning for Tight Market Cycles:With new supply dwindling, owners of well-located existing assets will benefit from increased renter demand and pricing power.

The New Blueprint for Multifamily Growth

While development isn’t disappearing, acquisitions are becoming the dominant strategy for many firms. Even companies rooted in building expertise acknowledge the benefits of diversification, stability, and speed that acquisitions provide.

Despite the required adjustments, most experts agree that buying multifamily properties now positions investors and developers for strong returns in the years ahead.

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EB Mortgage is a locally owned mortgage company with experts in new-home purchases, refinancing, and commercial loans. Our wholesale rates can’t be beaten. We offer more products, more options, and more solutions. Our “3C” Process is simple: complete our pre-approval request, consider options based on your requirements, and choose the offer that suits your needs best. Call us or e-mail us today! 

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

Creative Programs and Systems

Improving Cognitive Training Apps for Older Adults: What’s Working & What Must Come Next

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Cognitive training apps continue to gain traction among older adults seeking to maintain or improve cognitive function. While many available tools show promise, recent evaluations highlight an important reality: current apps designed for older adults with mild cognitive impairment offer moderate overall quality and significant variability in effectiveness, usability, and evidence-based support. Understanding where these apps succeed, and where they need to evolve is essential for shaping the next generation of digital cognitive health tools.

Current State of Cognitive Training Apps

Most apps today offer structured exercises that target memory, attention, processing speed, and problem-solving. Though users appreciate the accessibility and convenience of daily digital training, comprehensive reviews reveal notable inconsistencies:

  • Moderate app quality across the market
  • Wide variability in usability, design, and scientific accuracy
  • Stronger performance in basic exercise delivery
  • Weak performance in engagement, education, and evidence-based content

These findings suggest that while the foundation is in place, much more can be done to make cognitive training tools more effective, user-friendly, and clinically meaningful.

Key Areas That Need Improvement

1. Stronger Engagement Features

Older adults, especially those with cognitive impairment, need interaction, motivation, and a sense of connection to stay engaged. Effective cognitive training depends on consistent use, yet many apps fall short because they lack:

  • Personalization of difficulty levels
  • Adaptive pacing
  • Interactive prompts, feedback, and rewards
  • Social or community-based engagement options

2. Personalized Cognitive Support

Most apps still use one-size-fits-all training. Personalization increases relevance and boosts long-term use. Older adults benefit from training tailored to their individual abilities and limitations. To better support cognitive health:

  • Exercises should adapt to the user’s performance trends
  • Recommendations should reflect the user’s goals, limitations, and strengths
  • The interface should accommodate sensory and motor needs common in older adults

3. Better Integration of Health Care Expertise

Few apps are guided by clinicians, neuroscientists, or geriatric specialists. Aligning development with evidence-based standards is essential to ensure training is safe, appropriate, and scientifically sound. To meet these guidelines, future apps should:

  • Incorporate validated cognitive assessment tools
  • Provide clear, research-based information
  • Enable optional collaboration with caregivers or clinicians
  • Offer data outputs that support care planning and monitoring

Future Development for Next-Generation Cognitive Training Apps

By moving beyond simple “brain games,” developers should build tools that better support cognitive health in aging adults. To progress ahead of today’s moderate-quality apps, future solutions should consider including:

  • Holistic wellness recommendations, incorporating coaching tips and community features
  • AI-driven personalization with real-time difficulty adjustments
  • Integration with wearable devices to track sleep, activity, and wellness for a more complete view of cognitive health
  • Cognitive wellness plans that blend digital exercises with lifestyle guidance such as nutrition, movement, and social engagement
  • Voice-assisted navigation to improve accessibility
  • Family or caregiver dashboards for shared monitoring
  • Regular clinical advisory board involvement to keep content current and evidence-based

Moving Toward a More Supportive Digital Future

Creative Programs and Systems monitors emerging technology to understand how digital tools can better support the population. Cognitive training apps show real potential for adults experiencing memory challenges, but progress is needed to strengthen engagement, deepen personalization, and align development with evidence-based guidance. With thoughtful innovation, these tools can evolve from basic exercises into comprehensive systems that help older adults maintain cognitive health throughout life. CPS remains committed to promoting more effective, accessible, and clinically grounded digital solutions for the well-being of all.

For more information, refer to JMIR Publications.

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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