Author: Creative Programs and Systems - page 40

The How and Why of Electrical DIY

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Homeowners across the country are accomplishing DIY projects to either save money or learn how to do something new. When it comes to electrical work, is it better to DIY or hire professionals? If there are any doubts, absolutely contact a licensed electrician. If you’re fairly confident in your learning or electrical abilities, keep the following in mind: 

The safest way to start any electrical DIY project is to turn the power off at both sources: the wall switch, and the electrical panel breaker. Always double – no, triple-check that the circuit is off before doing any electrical work. If not, you will risk the chance of being shocked or shorting other appliances by improper wiring.

Start with some basic tools such as a circuit tester, lineman pliers, wire strippers, and wire nuts. If you are swapping out a light fixture or outlet, take photos and look carefully at how the old one was put together. When it’s time to put everything back together, an effortless trick is to look at the photos to ensure it’s all correct. 

DIY projects should not include any of the following: 

  • Main electrical panel
  • Sparking outlets or appliances
  • Main service feed
  • Spliced, damaged, or burned wires
  • Ungrounded systems
  • Wire stripper

Electrical DIY can save you time if you know what you’re doing. If not, however, it could turn into a long, drawn-out process. The good news about learning how to DIY electrical jobs is that you will eventually be confident enough to do it again. 

Sound engineering, such as proper grounding, solid wire connections, and safe circuits is imperative for a successful DIY electrical project. Electrical permits and inspections are always required before selling a house, and if your wiring is off, it could impact the sale of your home. Start small, and work on the simpler electrical projects before working your way up to bigger, more complex projects. 

Did your DIY project turn hire-it-out? State Electric Company is licensed, bonded, and insured to provide electrical contract work for residential, commercial, and industrial properties.  

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.

Surviving Climate Change Projections, Repercussions

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Survivalist schools are scattered throughout the country and used to be focused on learning how to drink water out of a vine or set rabbit traps. Now, these schools are focused on more serious scenarios brought on by climate change, such as urban-disaster preparedness, drought and storm readiness, etc.

Shane Hobel, the founder of the Mountain Scout Survival School, now charges per family, whereas before, he would charge per person or couple. He said, “It [family attendance] was never like that before.” 

Hobel suggested that the uptick in interested families is a result of “50 percent climate change and 50 percent the ‘political stuff.’” Despite different overall concerns, the answer is the same: learn how to adapt to change and survive by foraging, hunting, reading maps, building shelter, and more. 

These survival skills are crucial to learn and can benefit multiple circumstances. Without modern technology, society rests on a fragile foundation. 

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change anticipates a rise in temperature between 2.5- and 10 degrees Fahrenheit in the next hundred years. However, some scientists say that is a low expectation. Either way, the repercussions of rising temperatures are already in our midst. 

Last year, an astounding 4.3 million acres burned in California, a record for the state. 

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the global mean sea level is anticipated to rise at least one foot above 2000 levels by 2100. Roughly 40 percent of Americans live along the coasts and could lose their housing indefinitely. 

Fire and floods aren’t the only threat; hurricanes and cyclones are increasing by size and frequency. In the 1980s, six hurricanes totaled roughly $38.2 billion (2020’s dollars)  in damage, while seven hurricane disasters from 2010 through 2018 brought a whopping $335 billion in damages, according to the Associated Press. In Central America, 30 cyclones ripped through 2021, causing a climate migration crisis.

Jason Smerdon, a professor at the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory at Columbia University, said, “What we’re seeing through these impacts is what climate change is going to do: the drought out West, the forest fires out West, the heat wave that we’re experiencing, the hurricanes that are getting stronger and moving differently, the hurricane seasons that are extending in length. All of these things have strong climate change fingerprints. And this is very much the kind of things we can expect more of moving forward.” 

Are you prepared for a natural disaster? Grab the gear and supplies you need now – before you’ll need them later. Check out our online store today.

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

Improving Eye Health with Nutrients

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Healthy, strong eyesight is vital to our everyday lives, though many of us take extra precautions against eye damage. To help improve eye function, shield against harmful Ultraviolet (UV) rays, and minimize the chances of developing degenerative diseases, check out the following nutrients. 

Vitamin A
One of the most common causes of blindness throughout the globe is Vitamin A deficiency. Essential for sustaining photoreceptors, a deficiency of Vitamin A can result in night blindness, dry eyes, or worse, blindness. Vitamin A is found in liver, egg yolks, dairy products, kale, spinach, and carrots.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin
Yellow carotenoid antioxidants, these macular pigments are concentrated in your retina and act as a natural sunblock. They protect your eyes from harmful blue light. Ingesting these nutrients can lower the chances of macular degeneration by as much as 43 percent. Lutein and zeaxanthin can be found in spinach, Swiss chard, kale, parsley, pistachios, green peas, egg yolks, sweet corn, and red grapes. 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA are essential for optimal eye health. DHA helps to optimize eye function and is crucial for eye development in infants, so a deficiency can impair vision in children. The combination of EPA and DHA can increase tears, thereby reducing dry eyes. They also prevent other eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy. These nutrients can be found in oily fish.

Vitamin C
This antioxidant is indispensable for eye health, as the levels of Vitamin C have been found to be higher in the eye than any other bodily fluid. People with cataracts generally have decreased antioxidants; those taking vitamin C supplements are less likely to develop cataracts. Fruits and vegetables, including bell peppers, citrus fruits, grapes, kale, and broccoli are high in vitamin C.  

Zinc
This nutrient is an essential enzyme and is suspected to be involved in the formation of visual pigments in your eye. Those who are night blind might suffer from zinc deficiency. Macular degeneration can be slowed by supplementing zinc, and visual sharpness can also be improved. Zinc can be found in oysters, meat, pumpkin seeds, and peanuts. 

Rohr Eye & Laser Center offers the most advanced technology available to provide personalized and extraordinary care to our patients. Whether your goal is to maintain or improve your natural vision, we are here to help you. Call us at 877-579-0202 to learn more.

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

Michigan Lasik

Tips for Hiring a Landscaper

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Landscape contractors have many responsibilities, some of which include installing and maintaining outdoor elements. Depending on the client’s budget, timeline, and size of the project, landscape professionals should have the correct licensing, insurance, and qualifications. 

Landscape architects clear and level land, construct hardscape elements (water features, pavers, decks, retaining walls, etc.), manage irrigation systems, install lighting, and apply pest treatments as necessary. 

Check out our tips below to hire the right landscaper for your project. 

Plan Ahead
Do you need full-service landscape assistance or simply maintenance? Full-service landscape companies typically employ designers, account managers, and a full crew to plan, design, construct, install, and maintain your lawn. Maintenance landscape businesses provide basic lawn services such as mowing, weed control, edging, leaf cleanup, pruning, etc., and are typically owned and operated by a smaller team.

Research
It’s important to do your homework before choosing a landscape contractor. Thoroughly examine online reviews and look for long-term experience in the field. Ensure the business is licensed and insured. Referrals are also a surefire way to find an experienced landscape contractor. Check with close family, friends, or local online community boards for solid leads. 

Choose Wisely
Vet and interview your top prospects by contacting them directly. Ask them how long they have been in business, whether they use subcontractors, what their warranty policy is, payment expectations, etc. Compare your results and pick the landscape professional that suits your needs. 

Set it in Stone
Once you are ready to hire, collect estimates from your top three contractor options. Ensure they send you an estimate in writing, with everything included, such as company contact information, total cost, maintenance schedule, terms and conditions, warranty details, and more. 

Total cost, company experience, budget goals, testimonials, and much more are huge factors in determining which landscape company is best for you. 

Need help for your commercial property? Call T&T Property Maintenance to schedule a consultation!

T&T Property Maintenance has been visualizing, creating, and maintaining commercial properties since 1997. We offer a vast number of services for our clients, including lawn and landscape maintenance, irrigation set up and repair, fertilization, weed and pest control, snow plowing and salting, and tree trimming and stump grinding. We are licensed with the Michigan Department of Agriculture, so you can rest assured we will do the job right – every time. We work with commercial businesses of any size and offer our services in seasonal or yearly packages, and a la carte. For over 20 years, we believe a satisfied customer is the only kind of customer. Call or e-mail us to learn more.

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

T&T Property Maintenance

Adding Sustainability Into Your Home

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Want to reduce your environmental impact, reap financial benefits, improve the comfort in your home, and more? Make your home more sustainable with some ideas to make a big difference in your house’s energy use and longevity. Keep reading to learn how. 

Plants
Native plants can easily be incorporated into your landscape, where you can reap the environmental benefits. Plants naturally contribute to the larger ecosystem as a whole by providing food and shelter for wildlife and drawing in beneficial insects such as pollinators.

Lighting
When at all possible, opt for energy-efficient LED lights to lower electric bills and reduce your home’s overall energy consumption. These bulbs use between 25 percent and 80 percent less energy than incandescent. Additionally, adding switch dimmers can reduce energy usage. 

Off-gassing
Plant-based materials and low Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are fantastic ways to improve indoor air quality. Off-gassing is the airborne release of a vapor chemical, especially from new products. These toxic vapors are detrimental to human health, causing many diseases. Instead, opt for products that are low in VOCs and do not off-gas for years to come. 

Local
Support local businesses and reduce your carbon footprint by purchasing materials sourced nearby. 

Recycle
Renewable resources are an easy way to add sustainability to your home. Aluminum roofing, for example, can be recycled entirely. Choose materials that are recyclable to maintain sustainability. 

Insulation
Ensure your windows and wall insulation are air-tight and not leaking air in or out of your home. By reducing leaks, you will naturally increase energy performance throughout the house. 

There are many ways to reduce your carbon footprint throughout your home while simultaneously reducing toxins throughout the premises, protecting you and your family from potential harm. 

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

Alternative Loans Explained

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Conventional loans are not the only way borrowers can get approved – alternative loans include non-conforming loans, stated income loans, Alt-A loans, portfolio loans, and others. Where conventional loans cannot provide purchasing power, alternative loans can work for the right buyer. 

Alternative loans are meant to assist unconventional borrowers to secure financing. Atypical buyers can include those who are self-employed, receive income from unconventional sources, don’t have established credit, have high debt-to-income ratios, credit struggles, or exhibit other unique life experiences that complicate securing a traditional loan.

For certain property types, it can be challenging to secure a traditional or government-backed loan; alternative loans are also useful in these cases. 

The requirements for alternative loans differ from those for conventional loans. Usually, they are more relaxed and do not make the same requisites. For example, buyers might not have to show all of their income sources or might be able to receive a loan even if their employment history is inconsistent or challenging to verify.

Some alternative loans include: 

  • Low Down Payment: Borrowers can apply for a low- to nonexistent down payment. Since there is no official governmental oversight, the requirements vary between lenders, but overall, the rules are more flexible. 
  • Credit: Buyers with credit issues (no credit established, short credit history, credit problems, etc.) can benefit from alternative loans. Usually, this happens when the borrower is very young or has no credit cards or other debt in their name.
  • Debt-to-Income: A high debt ratio to income can immediately disqualify a borrower for standard loans. Stated income loans are an alternative that does not subject the buyer’s income to verification. 
  • Employment: People who are self-employed, newly employed, promoted, career change, etc., might struggle to secure a traditional loan. In these cases, an alternative loan is best to get them into a house they truly love. 

The right lender can help you apply for an alternative loan. Work with an experienced mortgage advisor to ensure you fully understand the fine print and can be led in the right direction. 

Unconventional loans often include a higher interest rate; even with a good rate and adequate terms, it is important that borrowers applying for alternative loans are honest and truthful about what they can afford. 

Are you looking to secure an alternative 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

Requiring Private Construction Bonds

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

While public (federal, state, or local agencies) projects are required to provide performance and payment bonds, private construction generally does not require bonds. For privately-owned construction jobs, it is up to the owner to secure a bond. 

While most contractors will work with a surety to provide the bond, some contractors will make it mandatory for the owner to pay for the bond. Depending on the contractor, size, type, and duration of the project, bonds can range in price between one-half to three percent of the contract.

Some of the reasons why private owners elect to secure bonds include: 

  • Lenders: Owners may be required to provide bonds if a lender is financing the job. 
  • Contractors: Sureties will thoroughly screen contractors for proficient operations, management, experience, and financial stability. 
  • Guarantees: Bonded projects are more likely to be completed.
  • Support: If trouble emerges, the surety will intervene and offer support to avoid default. 

Private owners choose to forgo bonds because: 

  • Price: Bonds are expensive, and it can be challenging to justify higher expenses. 
  • Vetting: Financial and other records are generally difficult to obtain, but some contractors provide access to sureties.
  • Contracts: Countless provisions require clear communication between the surety and contractor.

Practically speaking, securing bonds for privately-owned construction jobs depends on the experience of the contractor, size, and nature of the project. Bonding might be justified if the project is big but the contractor is smaller. If the contractor is unfamiliar with the structure or components, a bond might be a good idea. Lastly, if a private construction job does require a bond, it is imperative for the owner to review the form with an attorney to ensure everyone will comply with the stipulations. 

At Construction Bonding Specialists, we work with new and experienced contractors to find the most satisfactory bond solutions. As a distinct surety-bond-only agency with decades of bonding experience, we work to discover surety solutions for all types of cases ranging from ordinary to challenging. 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

Video Radiology Helps Patients Better Understand Test Results

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Video radiology reports are made for specific patients using simplified language and clearly annotated images to help them better understand test results, according to a novel study published by the American Journal of Roentgenology. 

Radiologists at NYU Grossman School of Medicine lead the study in collaboration with Visage Imaging GmbH and Siemens Healthineers. The study outlines how radiologists can create these patient-focused videos in under four minutes, delivering the results directly to patients and referring partners through an integrated patient portal. 

Lead author of the study, Michael P. Recht, MD, the Louis Marx Professor of Radiology and chair of the Department of Radiology at NYU Langone Health, said, “For decades radiologists have provided traditional radiology reports that are full of medical jargon and extremely difficult for patients to understand and decipher. Our findings demonstrate that when radiologists take a more active role in patient-centered care and provide helpful information about a particular diagnosis in an easy-to-comprehend manner, both the patient and clinician benefit.”

More than 100 radiologists at NYU Langone Health generated more than 3,500 video radiology reports during a four-month span between September 2021 and January 2022. All imaging modalities were used in the reports, such as MRIs, mammograms, X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds, etc. 

The average length of each video report was 55 seconds. In a survey, 91 percent of patients reported they preferred both a written and video radiology report, suggesting it was helpful at showcasing the most imperative aspects of the overall report.

Researchers created the video radiology reports with Visage Imaging GmbH to integrate and build a tool inside the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS), which radiologists use to read imaging studies. 

After a series of images were identified, they were brought into the diagnostic viewer screen and recorded with audio while a mouse was used to identify notable anatomical anomalies. 

The NYU Langone Health MyChart housed the video radiology reports on the patient portal, with personalized clinical notes and a complete written report. 

Dr. Recht said, “Our study disrupts the old adage that radiologists ‘sit in a dark reading room all day’ and are invisible to patients. Through projects and research like this, our radiologists take a more active approach to patient-centered care that allows our department to provide exceptional, world-class care.”

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

Reconditioning Industrial Circuit Breakers

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Electrical systems should have an industrial circuit breaker to protect your crew and equipment from danger. These can range from several hundred to tens of thousands of dollars. If industrial circuit breakers become damaged, they must be serviced or replaced immediately.

One option for fixing industrial circuit breakers is recognized by the ANSI/IEEE, which is the process of reconditioning. It is defined as “The process of maintaining existing power switchgear equipment in operating condition as recommended by the manufacturer’s instructions, using only the original manufacturer’s recommended replacement parts, without altering the design.” 

Below are the five steps taken to ensure a quality reconditioning process:

  1. Inspection: A visual analysis is performed to pinpoint mechanical damage, missing parts, discoloration, etc. The breaker’s trip settings are recorded, along with the breaker’s overall electrical condition. 
  2. Disassembly: Defective components can more easily be identified after the breaker is deconstructed into its component parts. Components labeled by serial number are not commingled with others. All parts are thoroughly inspected, cleaned, lubricated, repainted, and replated as necessary. 
  3. Reassembly: Components are put back together with precision, ensuring all bearings, pins, retainers, nuts, bolts, and hardware that show wear are replaced with OEM pieces. All contact pivot surfaces (stationary and moveable), operating mechanisms, linkages, and bearings are lubricated based on the manufacturer’s recommendations. Afterward, they are adjusted and aligned for mechanical integrity and tension. 
  4. Testing: After the circuit breaker is reassembled, it must be tested to make sure it works properly. The trip mechanism and indicator is tested to ensure proper operation. A record of the amount of electricity required to trip the breaker is also documented. Once they are in working order, low-voltage breakers must be tested as well. Electrical operation including the spring change motor, closing operation, shunt trip, and more are all tested to ensure proper functionality.

Reconditioned breakers are thoroughly verified to be safe. The fundamental role circuit breakers play in the safety of electricians, and electrical equipment is paramount. 

Are you looking for genuine reconditioned electrical parts? You’ve come to the right place! Check out our expertly assembled refurbished products 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

Direct Mail Tips

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Direct mail has one focus: to be opened. An assortment of tools and tactics can help your direct mail be opened in the hands of potential customers. Once they are drawn to the mail for whatever reason, whether copy, images, ink, paper weight, etc., they are more likely to open it.

When judging mail by its cover, the envelope is the first thing potential customers see. Plain envelopes are “blah” and don’t attract attention to the target. Instead, opt for an inviting, exciting, and unique envelope. With more differences to set your mail apart from other envelopes, the chances of it being opened are much higher.

Ultimately, direct mail envelopes should reflect the contents, but consider how people will be intrigued or how their attention will be drawn to it. Below are some suggestions for achieving stellar direct mail envelopes.

Color
With solid-color envelopes or full-bleed 4-color images, your message will really pop. Look up some color charts to discover which types of emotions you are trying to provoke. 

Copy
Personalize the envelope or add an intriguing sentence to get your envelope opened. 

Size
Consider using unconventional sizes or custom shape cuts to achieve a different look.

Paper
The United States Postal Service has requirements for thickness, but you can still take advantage of various paper stocks, embellishments, finishes, and embossed text. 

Eco-Friendly
Consumers love making a difference; depending on your target audience, several materials (kraft, recycled, etc.) can help get your mail opened…that are good for the planet, too. 

Gifts
Special gifts or freebies can be wonderful incentives for people to open your envelope. 

Urgent
Create a sense of urgency by saying things like, “Hurry – offer ends in 10 days – immediate attention needed!” to hook your potential customers. It’s a tried-and-true method sure to help you get results. 

If you are looking for direct mailing services, you’ve come to the right place. Contact Econo Print today.

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 or visit www.econoprintusa.com 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