Author: Creative Programs and Systems - page 37

Falling Computer Chip Prices

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Recently, there was a massive price drop in computer chips. A common question is how these large drops will affect businesses in the surrounding industry. It’s been a bad decade for computer chip makers. That’s not to say there have been no gains – Intel’s profits have steadily climbed during the decade, and AMD has made some money in recent years. But the industry, as a whole, is facing lower prices–leading to a big earnings miss for industry leaders, and slower growth.

What Does It Mean When the Price Falls?

The falling price of computer chips is a sign of the cycle in capital-intensive businesses, as they look to make up for losses by cutting costs and laying off employees. The price of computer chips fell more than 70% over the past decade, and this is happening for a reason.

Continued price drops of computer chips indicate that we are entering a cycle where capital-intensive businesses are becoming increasingly difficult to maintain. This is because technology is changing so quickly, and new players are constantly coming up with new ways to do things better and cheaper.

It is not just computer chips that are showing this trend; it is also happening in other industries, like cars and airplanes, which are seeing similar price drops as they become more automated.

The falling price of the computer chip means that companies in which “capital intensive” processes are important will see their profits decline. That’s bad news for investors.

Why Is the Price Falling and What It Means?

  • The cost of producing chips has dropped steadily, so manufacturers are able to lower their prices without taking a hit on their profits. This means that consumers have more money in their pockets, which they can put toward other purchases. It also means that companies who need to buy new computers are facing lower prices than they would have otherwise.
  • There is more competition in the industry, which means manufacturers are more competitive with each other. In addition, there is more innovation happening in design and production techniques.
  • Lastly, the advancement of technology.

Founded in 1994, Creative Programs and Systems provides professional results for all computer needs. We design, create, and code an array of custom software programs and websites; offer top-notch digital marketing services including enhanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and paid advertising; repair and provide support for computers of both residential and professional nature; build custom systems and servers, and offer secure data backups. Need assistance or want to learn more? Call us at 810-224-5252 or e-mail info@cpsmi.com.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Creative Programs and Systems

Ten Common Fall Home Remodeling/Maintenance Projects

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The fall season is approaching; the time known as “not too hot nor too cold” for outdoor work. Familiarize yourself with ten common home projects best done in the fall.

Gutters

One of the most critical maintenance chores that usually fails to get done in a timely manner is cleaning your gutters from leaves and debris. Nothing is more annoying than finding your channels clogged during a rainstorm and water pouring overboard. Or worse, ice dams that can quickly damage your gutters and more. Ensure your gutter system is fastened securely to the house and pitched correctly. Short on time, hire a cleaning company or helper. The money spent can save you thousands down the road to repair damages.  

Roof

At least once a year, you should climb up to your roof for inspection. Check the state of your roof, vents, and chimney, and fix any minor repairs, like missing shingles or small leaks. Determine if it needs to be replaced. Roofing companies will give free estimates and can be hired to inspect and list essential and minor repairs.

Insulation

Adding more insulation to the attic will lower your energy costs. Over time, you will re-coop what you spent for insulation. Proper insulation within your attic will help keep the warmth in during the winter and the cool air in the summer. If you are hiring a roofing specialist, they can usually assist with replacing or adding more insulation. Be sure to ask when getting roofing estimates.

Fertilize the Lawn

Fertilizing can be done in the spring, summer, and fall, but if you have pets or young children, this task may better be left for the fall, when most outdoor activities have been completed. This job can be completed in an afternoon by yourself or by hiring a fertilizing company. Be sure to ask about safer organic applications for pets and children.

Refinish the Deck or Patio

The best time to refinish your deck or patio is in the fall, so you’re ready to sit and enjoy in the spring. If the area is small enough, power washing, cleaning, and re-staining the deck can be done within a day or two. If you hire the job out, ask to be placed on their yearly schedule if pleased with their work. This way, the company contacts you, and it’s one less thing on your to-do list.

Re-Stain, Paint, or Refinish Siding

If you are especially handy and want to take on this enormous task, fall is the best season to complete this project. Temperatures over 80 degrees or cooler than 50 degrees greatly affect the application drying. When your paint has faded, become discolored, or chipped, the fall season is the best time of the year to recoat your exterior.  

Interior Painting

Painting can make a room look new again. Even if you can’t redo the entire home, starting with one room at a time will eventually bring new life to your house. If you can’t paint a room or it doesn’t require a drastic change, consider painting the trim or the front door. Just changing up the color can impact the entire vibe of a space. For larger jobs, hire a professional painter if able, or take a weekend and roll up your shirt sleeves for single room or smaller projects.

Septic Tank Pumped

Most septic tanks require being pumped every 3 to 5 years. So, if you have a septic tank and your approaching the deadline, schedule to have it pumped before winter. Give yourself peace of mind knowing that you won’t have the extra burden of dealing with the winter elements. The number of bathrooms the home has and the number of occupants will help determine how often you need to empty the tank. Always call a professional to verify needs.

Replacing Windows

Is your furnace or central air working overtime? If it feels like they are constantly running, it may be time to replace the windows. Energy-efficient windows save you a ton on heating and cooling costs, plus your home actually stays warm in the winter and cool in summer. Planning a move? New windows increase the value of your home and help promote resale.

Winterization

Winterizing is a must for Michigan homeowners. Prevent costly repairs of busted pipes and such by proactively overseeing your underground sprinklers, exterior water spickets, hoses, and pool/filters/heaters. Also, inspect and caulk any exterior doors and windows that need it, and replace weather stripping.

For bigger jobs, call JFC Remodeling for professional, safe, and worry-free renovation.  

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 an 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

Credit Scores Explained

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Let’s face it, most of us don’t have a couple hundred thousand dollars under our pillow to buy a home or even a new vehicle. We need banks to loan us large amounts of money for big-ticket items. How do banks determine who qualifies for a loan by calculating our credit score?

Your credit score is 100% up to you. How does it work?

First, we explain how the banks obtain your scores. Loan institutions use three credit bureau agencies: TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian, to get your score. They submit your social security number, and each company gives a score from 300-850. The higher the score, the better.

The three credit bureau agencies use FICO and Vantage Score to determine your score. Below are the five items FICO uses to determine your score:

  1. 35% Payment History – Pay down/off loans that are currently outstanding
  2. 30% Amounts Owed – Do not spend more than you make
  3. Keep your loan-to-debt ratio below 30% (not including your mortgage debt) but all other debt owed like vehicle loans, credit cards, student loans, etc.
  4. Experts say to stay below 10% if you want to maintain a credit score in the high 700s
  5. 15% Length of Credit History – Keep the line of credit/loan open, even if the balance is zero
  6. Do not apply for a dozen credit cards just because you can. The credit limit, even though it’s zero, the balance goes against your credit score under income to debt (#2 above.)
  7. Furthermore, do not close a bunch of credit cards either because the score is also measured by history by 15%.
  8. 10% Mix – Keep a mix of credit (a car loan, a credit card, and a mortgage.) Lenders like to see a borrower who can handle a combination of loans.
  9. 10% New Credit – Restrict yourself from applying for credit of any kind unless you have planned this through
  10. Every time a creditor submits your application for a loan, it reduces the current score. They say 5 points or more for every pull.

Keeping a healthy, high credit score takes discipline and constant work. If you have questions or need help obtaining a loan, contact the experts at EB Mortgage today!

EB Mortgage is a locally owned mortgage company with experts in new home purchase, 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/

EB Mortgage

Common Hand and Wrist Injuries Due to Sports

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Playing sports has significant health benefits to a person’s well-being. However, with any physical activity is the possibility of injury. Approximately 25% of all sports injuries are associated with the athlete’s hand and wrist. These damages can create barriers to completing daily tasks- on and off the field. It’s important to understand the symptoms of common hand and wrist injuries and know how to take proper care to limit downtime. Below we discuss the most popular sports-related injuries:  

Skier’s Thumb

Also known as ulnar collateral ligament tear, it is an acute injury of the ligament at the base of a person’s thumb. This injury occurs when the thumb is bent backward, causing the ligament that helps the thumb grasp to tear. Although this injury is most found amongst skiers while grasping a ski pole and falling, it can happen in any sport. Symptoms include pain and swelling at the base of the thumb with low mobility and weakness when attempting to grasp. Tears are best treated with rest and splinting for 4-6 weeks, but a complete tear or multiple injuries may require surgery to reattach tendons.

Finger Jam

This type of injury is also called the “basketball finger,” but it can occur in a range of sports like rugby, volleyball, or football that involves contact with a ball striking the end of an extended finger. The severity of the injury can range. A sprain or dislocation may be corrected by simply pulling on the finger. Symptoms to expect would be joint pain and swelling with the increased difficulty in bending the affected finger. Treatment consists of rest, ice, splints or buddy taping to an adjacent finger.

Scaphoid (Wrist) Fracture

A wrist fracture is an acute injury resulting from the break in one of the many small bones in the wrist. These injuries are not always easy to observe and diagnosed by untrained eyes. The most common cause of a wrist fracture occurs among snowboarders, rollerbladers, and football players, those who extend their arms when falling. Fractures happen when their hand and wrist get hyperextended, and the athlete’s weight is forced onto the palm. Injuries include pain and swelling in the area below the base of the thumb up through the forearm. The pain may increase with the movement of the thumb and wrist. Treatments will vary depending on the severity of the fracture, where most require splinting or casting, but others may result in surgery needed.

Wrist Ligament Tear

Wrist ligaments and cartilage can experience tearing for many different reasons. The two most common are acute trauma caused by a hard fall on an outstretched arm, causing the wrist to twist abnormally. Secondly, repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) can gradually pull on tendons and tear during exercise or other recreational activities.

Total prevention of sports injuries may not be possible, but taking the proper precautions, will likely lower your risk. Always wear well-fitting sports equipment and protective gear like wrist guards and gloves. Sports tape can help make a big difference in keeping your muscles in check. Remember to warm up, stretch, and take breaks to allow proper body functionality.

Have an injury to your hands or wrist? Contact the experts at Michigan Hand & Wrist for a free consultation!  

Michigan Hand & Wrist was founded in 2001 with the mission to provide the highest-quality care for patients seeking surgical or non-surgical hand or upper extremity relief. Our goal is to exhaust all non-operative measures before discussing or moving on to surgical interventions. We offer on-site physical therapy from therapists committed to improving your quality of life. Our individualized treatments are modern, progressive, and exceptional. Call us at 248-596-0412 for further questions.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

EB Mortgage

Flint Water Still Tainted with Toxic Lead

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Just as we thought it was over, the Flint lead water crisis continues. During testing over the first half of this year, the level of lead in the city’s tap water has increased. State environmental officials attribute the spike to additional testing of businesses known to have lead in their service lines. 

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) recently shared the results of Flint’s Lead and Copper Rule testing, saying samples taken from 61 homes and businesses showed 90 percent registered lead readings of lead at or below 10 parts per billion (ppb).

The federal action level is currently set at 15 ppb, so the Flint results are lower than the 90th percentile. The most recent testing is the second consecutive water sampling period that showed an increase in samples higher than 15 ppb. The first half of 2022 registered at 10 ppb, while during the first six months of 2021, it was 3 ppb; the last half of 2021, 7 ppb. 

In Michigan, the threshold for lead will increase from 12 ppb to 15 ppb starting in 2025. Currently, all public water systems are required to test tap water for lead and copper. If levels are found above 15 ppb in the system’s 90th percentile, actions must be taken to remediate the metals.

As for Flint, city officials have acknowledged that the water testing system was deeply flawed before the crisis of 2016. Federal regulations required the water to be tested in homes with lead service lines, but Flint failed to focus on these situations. 

EGLE attributes the latest heightened test results to Flint’s increasing Tier 2 non-residential sites. Fewer homes have lead service lines, thanks to the city’s program to replace lead and galvanized steel water service lines in response to the crisis. More than 95 percent of Flint homes no longer have lead and/or copper in their service lines. 

However, this has now triggered the addition of non-residential testing sites. Kris Donaldson, EGLE’s clean drinking water public advocate, said, “As Flint nears completion of its lead service line replacement program, we are seeing clear evidence that the focus will need to shift to interior plumbing and continued education on how to reduce lead exposures in the home as outlined on the state’s MI Lead Safe website.” 

After the Flint water crisis, Michigan adopted the country’s toughest lead rules for drinking water in 2018. Now, all public water systems are required to replace an average of five percent of lead service lines every year for the next 20 years. 

Test and Remove Lead from your home or business’s drinking water with Reynold’s Water Conditioning equipment!  

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Reynolds Water

Novel Cancer Treatment Headed to McLaren Flint

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

An innovative new technology headed to Flint will be used to treat cancer with proton therapy. The McLaren Proton Therapy Center is the first to receive the new machine that treats patients upright, enabling cancer treatment with more precision. 

Leo Cancer Care developed the proton therapy called “Marie,” which will take up less space yet provide more accurate treatments since there will be less organ movement. 

The Proton Therapy Center in Flint will receive the first two upright units and be used within the next two years, pending FDA approval. The largest proton center in Michigan, the new machine will allow more patients to be treated. 

According to a news release from McLaren, proton therapy is a type of radiation therapy that uses protons to accurately target tumor cells and leave healthy surrounding cells undamaged.

Stephen Towe, CEO of Leo Cancer Care, said, “The goal of Leo Cancer Care and McLaren Proton Therapy Center’s collaboration is to bring proton therapy to more patients, and we know there are clear advantages with proton therapy. The McLaren Proton Therapy Center is well-positioned to become the first to potentially treat patients with the revolutionary Leo Cancer Care technology.”

Construction to add the “Marie” units to the Proton Therapy Center in Flint will start in the spring of 2023 and be fully operational by the fall of 2024.  

Acceletronics is an industry leader in delivering the best equipment performance and service reliability from CT Scanners and Linear Accelerators across all major brands and models. Call 610-524-3300 to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Acceletronics

EV Charging in the U.S Will Soon Become More Prevalent

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The current administration is backing a plan to support the development of 500,000 EV chargers throughout the US. The goal is to ease range anxiety and speed up charge time. Here’s a quick summary:

  • The federal government has allocated 5 billion in spending to go to states to build and install EV chargers, primarily throughout interstate highways.
  • The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program (NEVI) is the gateway for individual states to access this money. States submit their plan of action for review, approval, and disbursement of funding.
  • Each charging station must be for public use, allow open-access payment methods, include at least four DCFC plug-in units, work autonomously with all EV brands, and be within 50 miles of another charging station.
  • These DCFC chargers (direct circuit, fast charge) are commercial Level 3 EV chargers that must deliver 150kW of power and charge an EV within 15-45 minutes.

Currently, the US has about 46,000 EV chargers and around 150,000 gas stations. The conditions of this plan could pose a challenge for utilities, requiring the enhancement of electrical infrastructure that possibly includes battery storage. Whatever shortfalls, this program is an excellent jumpstart to incentivize private investors.

To learn more, reference the U.S. Dept. of Energy.

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State Electric Company is a leader in the electrification of the nation. Our highly educated and experienced team of professionals uses industry-leading software technology and has partnered with manufacturers to deliver affordable solutions for all your electrical needs. State Electric Co. is also an exclusive distributor for Enel X JuiceBox EV chargers for residential and commercial use. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded to install charging stations for homes, offices, hotels, and more. With our extensive knowledge in renewable energy, our team provides customers – large or small – with efficient electrical solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can safely and affordably meet your energy needs.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

State Electric Co.

Particle Accelerators Create Potential Cancer Treatment in Lansing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

A Lansing company called Niowave has begun producing actinium-225, a silvery metal isotope that barely exists on Earth, with a superconducting linear accelerator. The reason? This isotope is a promising cancer treatment; however, researchers don’t know its full potential due to the absence of clinical trials. 

Niowave has secured a $5 million deal with Fusion Pharmaceuticals to start production in 2024.  Between Russia, the United States, Germany, and Canada, there are only two curies (unit of measurement for radioactive materials) of actinium-225. Niowave plans on making one curie per week. 

In 2019, the federal government gave Niowave $15 million, and another $13 million last year, to produce molybdenum 99, which is used for medical imaging. Since other countries subsidize its production, making a profit from molybdenum 99 is tricky. 

After working with uranium for years, the federal government determined Niowave could function safely with another highly radioactive element, radium, to create actinium-225. 

Cancer therapy isotopes emit beta particles, which can destroy cancer cells but also kill healthy cells around them. Actinium-225 delivers more targeted alpha particles, which can emit more energy at a shorter distance.

Justin Wilson, an associate professor of chemistry and chemical biology at Cornell University said, “If you can get those alpha particles to the cancer cells, they have the capability of doing more damage but in a more confined region. Which, in theory, could prevent hitting healthy cells that maybe aren’t part of the small metastatic lesion.” 

Eric Burak, chief technical officer at Fusion Pharmaceuticals, states that they are working on formulating three separate drugs that use actinium-225. He said the isotope is “One of the rarest elements in the entire planet, and, with more companies interested in its therapeutic potential, everyone is scrambling for actinium supply.” 

Fusion Pharmaceuticals are investing $5 million to help Niowave create actinium-225 in exchange for a guaranteed share of the end result. 

Niowave’s superconducting linear accelerator has been moved to a concrete room as radium is extremely radioactive. 

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RadParts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerator and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost parts and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

RadParts

Killer Business Cards

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

You might think business cards have lost their marketing advantage. But no, they are in high demand, especially with small businesses. A business card is an invitation to your front door and represents your company. So, don’t skimp on quality. First impressions are the make or break in obtaining new customers. Follow these simple tips to design a killer business card that’s sure to impress.

Keep your print quality professional – Maintain a minimum typography size and keep at least 5 mm from the trim. Stay with at least 300 dpi for the best quality image of your print.

Quality matters – Spend a bit extra on nice card stock paper. Everyone knows a cheap business card when they see one. The better the quality, the more apt someone will be willing to slip it into their wallet or purse instead of the garbage.

Don’t use clip art. Instead, use a photograph or better yet, seek the service of a graphic designer who can create something awesome. If you want to stand out from the competition, you can’t reuse someone else’s design. Put creative thought into your industry, determine what will resonate with potential customers, and strive to meet that.  

Design with purpose – A business card does not have much room for print. So, deciding the card’s purpose and focusing on it is vital. For example, are you trying to get your brand noticed? Then get your point across by laying it out. Or perhaps, you want to increase traffic and get contact calls to come in. Then, you’ll want the content to showcase your open availability, etc. A print designer is the most qualified person to design and lay out the fundamentals without getting lost in the presentation.

What a business card is used for – The bottom line is to increase revenue. Wherever you go, if someone indicates an interest in your business, you have an easy mode of reference. Remember, sometimes less is more. You don’t have to overcomplicate things; just show confidence. Think about Amazon or McDonald’s; their symbols are amazingly simple, an arrow shaped like a smile and a large M. The ideas are endless!

If you need assistance designing and printing custom business cards, call the pros at Econo Print!

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At Econo Print, we strive to deliver the highest-quality printed products possible. We produce top-rated goods in a timely fashion at a competitive price. Listening to our clients and helping them achieve their business goals is our top priority. We are proud of the strong roots we’ve built in the community and pride ourselves on using cutting-edge technology. Our products, commitment to service, and level of expertise exceed our clients’ expectations. Contact us today to learn how we can help launch your business to the next level.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Econoprint

Camping During the Fall Season: 7 Basic Tips

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

With the shifting weather patterns, camping during the fall season can be tricky. How you prepare for your outing can make the difference between a great trip and a disastrous one. Read on to learn some important tips for a spectacular excursion in the great outdoors.

Morning Joe

Morning coffee is not essential by any means, but it sure makes your trip more pleasant. A warm cup of joe is a must-have for most adults, especially while enjoying the cold fall brisk woods. To make coffee in the old days, cowboys poured some grounds into a pot with hot water. Better yet, dump some grounds into a filter, slowly pour hot water over it, and stir. Don’t forget to pack some cream and sugar!

Clothing

Fall is unpredictable, so preparing for hot or chilly weather is critical. Be sure to dress in layers so you can peel off a coat, etc., if it’s warm or stay bundled up if it’s cold. Attempt to wear clothing that wicks moisture away; it’s important to remain dry (even from sweat) to stay warm. Have a change of clothing in case something gets wet. This way, you have an alternative outfit while you wait for items to dry.

Water

Water is a must-have on a camping trip. It’s a vital resource for hydration, cooking, and cleaning. A human can survive two weeks without food but only two days without water. Always carry an emergency water filter to remove contaminates from natural waterways such as rivers and lakes. If you don’t have a proper water filter, at the very minimum, boil drinking water to help prevent getting extremely sick.

Tent Location & Safety

Finding the perfect campsite is key to staying safe and dry. Ensure your tent is in a high and dry location and far enough from the campfire so it does not pose a risk. Find a spot using foliage or some other natural barrier to help protect you from mother nature’s wind or rainstorms.

Tarp

Having a tarp is just good sense when camping. For starters, it can be used as a backup shelter in case your tent is destroyed. But with a tent, place a tarp underneath it to prevent the tent’s floor from getting wet. Do not sleep directly on the tent’s floor either; use a cot or a pad. Or find fresh pine boughs to layer for cushion and warmth.

Emergency Plan

Always have a backup plan and another in case the first falls astray. Cell phones and batteries are a must but count on a lack of signal and dying batteries. For example, to start a fire, have a lighter, matches, and a flint starter to get one going. Using smoke is the most effective signal to call for help other than a cell phone. Adding pine boughs helps to create smoke billows after you’ve started the fire.

Fire

Keep heat for a fire on the ready by stacking a small pile of wood and gathering kindling like birch bark, pine cones, dry leaves, and small twigs. To get a fire started, carve out a small area of the ground to contain it. Place some kindling in the center, select small to medium-sized pieces of wood, and balance them against each other at an angle. Slowly add more wood until the fire is burning nicely and hot.  

Need supplies? Wolf Survival Gear has long-term food, outerwear, camping gear, and essential survival tools for the great outdoors. 

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Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for your prepping and survival needs. We are your trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you’ll need it later.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Wolf Survival Gear