Livingston Reporting - page 141

Troubleshooting Your Homes Water Supply

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

No matter where your homes water comes from, a well, a spring, or the city, problems can exist.  Individual water quality issues are fixed with distinct water treatment solutions. It is our job to help determine what solution will work best in treating and eliminating your homes water issue.  From hardness to foul smells, we have a solution to bring you high quality water throughout your home.  There are several issues that are commonly found in water throughout Michigan homes.

Common issues with your waters quality:

  • Hardness
  • Foul Odors and Taste
  • Mineral Buildup
  • Acidic
  • Arsenic

Hard Water:

Most often homeowners don’t know that they have hard water.  What they do know is that there are spots on their glassware, laundry appears dingy, increased usage of soap, change in the texture of hair and skin, increased energy costs, and scale build up on faucets and such.  Homes affected by a hard water supply have plumbing that tends to age quicker than those who seek to soften the water.  The most common way to treat hard water in your homes water supply is with the installation of a high-quality water softener.

Foul Odors and Taste:

Foul odors and strange tasting water is something extremely noticeable to homeowners.  Water can taste unpleasant metallic, chlorine, or can smell awful like rotten eggs, when this occurs one of the most common treatment options that is suggested is using an activated carbon filtration system.  Backwashing carbon filtration systems are a combination of a large filter filled with activated carbon media.  This removes foul tastes and odors from your whole house water supply leaving you with high quality water throughout the home.

Mineral Buildup:

Homeowners may not notice that they have an accumulation of minerals taking place within their water supply. The most common symptoms of a build up of iron and magnesium include unpleasant metal taste, staining, reddish tinted water, odors, and rust particles in the water. The treatment for a mineral buildup is the installation and usage of an iron filter system.

Acidic:

When the porcelain surfaces start to turn from white and ivory to green and blue green there is an issue with acidic water, low ph within the water.  What this means is that your water supply has acid in it which is causing a corrosion of your pipes and plumbing fixtures.  The fix for the issue of acidic water is with an acid neutralizer using Calcite.

Arsenic:

Arsenic is an element found naturally within ground water.  Arsenic within your homes water supply can cause adverse health effects even in low concentrations as it is a carcinogen at high concentrations.  In order to remove arsenic from your water supply homeowners should install an arsenic reduction system.

All water supplies need to be treated on an individual basis as symptoms can also be masked by other occurrences within the water supply.  Free water analysis is done to diagnosis the issues that are found within your homes water to ensure that the treatment options is specific for your water needs.

At Reynolds Water Conditioning Company, we are here to help make sure our clients don’t buy water treatment systems that they don’t need.  We are here to make sure you find a water softening system that gives you the results you are looking for, whether it is to remove iron or odor from you water; we have a solution that will help!  For more information contact our experts at 800.572.9575 or at our website https://reynoldswater.com.

Reynolds Water

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Unique Finishes for Gunite Swimming Pools

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Gunite is the concrete substance that is used to take the reinforced steel rebar structure that sort of looks like a pool and turns it into a swimming pool.  Gunite needs to be applied before pool plaster can offer a finish to the pools structure.  This material is great to use in creating a swimming pool structure as it offers reduces shrinkage and low permeability.

Pool plaster is a porous material.  The application of the plaster coating on top of the concrete base keeps the structure protected from the long-term effects of water.  Although plaster offers solid protection to the swimming pool there are times when a pools plaster must be reapplied most often for aesthetic and structural reasons.

The pools plaster surface is susceptible to staining from copper and iron, both of which can be unsightly. Once staining occurs there is only so much you can do with traditional methods including acid washing.  There are several different and unique swimming pool plaster finishes that improve a pools permeability including tile, pebble, and quartz.

Tile

The most notable characteristic of tile is its versatility and its ability to give your swimming pool and surrounding area a custom, one-of-a-kind look. Tile is also a long-lasting material that holds up well to natural elements and years of use. Glazed tiles, as well as glass mosaic tiles, offer a beautiful underwater shimmer, and reflective characteristics will make even the smallest pool seem larger and deeper than it is. Tile also comes in a wide range of rich colors and unique designs that will give any pool a unique facelift.

Pebble

A swimming pool plaster finish using pebbles can upgrade your pools aesthetic significantly. Pebbles are a popular aggregate Gunite pool plastering finish because they last longer than standard plaster and provides a beautiful, decorative, and compact, easy to maintain, finish that improves the appearance of any concrete swimming pool.

Quartz

Quartz aggregate is also one of the most popular finishes for pools for a good reason. Not only is Quartz a durable material that will stand up well to many years of use, but it comes in a variety of different hues such as light blue to a deep midnight blue that enhances a pools aesthetics and durability. Comfort is a major factor of consideration for pool owners and not only is a Quartz finish swimmer friendly, but It also has smooth edges without being slippery.

Learn more about Pound Pool Plastering and their numerous pool plastering options including: pool resurfacing, plaster surfacing, commercial pool plaster, residential pool plaster, plastering swimming pools, tiling swimming pools, coping swimming pools, and more at www.pound-pool-plastering.com.  To contact our pool plastering specialists call 248.476.4544 today.

Pound Pool Plastering

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Smart Exterior Home Improvements

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

All homeowners should be aware of the importance of curb appeal, especially when looking to sell their home.  The interior looks of the home will never come into play unless you get buyers inside the door, thus the importance of the homes exterior appeal.  Let’s face it, if the house looks like a hot mess on the outside what are people to assume the inside looks like. Exterior home improvements often allow you to get the biggest return on your investment, increasing the sale price of your home.  In order to maximize your efforts where it counts we have established a list of exterior aspects to focus on during the renovation process.

Front Door

Replacing your homes front door is a solid place to start when looking into exterior upgrades.  Replacing the contractor grade front doors that are installed on most newer homes with a high quality, decorative front door can have a major impact.  Take the addition of a new front door to the next level with the addition features to dress up the door such as a pediment and molding which offers a more substantial feel.

Front Porch

Along with a new front door, the porch area in itself is a large attention grabber.  Some porch renovations include new lighting, fresh decking, the addition of a natural element such as manufactured stone, greenery, and seating can take a space from barely noticeable to a visual masterpiece.  When thinking about a front porch most people contour up images of porch swings, rocking chairs, and wicker.  It is an image of simplicity, relaxation, and family.

New Roof

When it comes to exterior elements, your homes roof is one of the most important.  Not only does your homes roof play an incredibly important role in protecting your home and family from natures harshest elements it adds to the energy efficiency of the home.  If you have an older roof with leaks and general overall disrepair it is time to consider a new roof. Installing a new roof with the help of a professional roofing contractor can help to ensure that new roofing technology is utilized, and energy efficiency is maximized.

Increased Lighting

Not only is lighting important to the interior of your home, it can also have a huge impact on the exterior.  Exterior lighting be included by each entrance of the home as well as used strategically to enhance architectural features of the home and landscape.  Increased lighting not only improves the overall look of the home, it increases the perception of safety.  Exterior elements that will be in use throughout the year should have access to lighting. From backyard fireplaces to snowy driveways it is important to be able to have a visual of the area.

Learn more about Kearns Brothers, a full-service home improvement contractor servicing all of Southeast Michigan’s construction needs by visiting their website at www.kearnsbrothers.com or contact a remodeling expert at 888.355.6700.

 

Kearns Brothers

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Increasing Pool Safety Through Pool Fence and Gate Installation

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Safety is of the utmost importance when homeowners have swimming pools installed at their homes.  Installing aluminum fencing with a self-closing, self-latching gate around the perimeter of the pool area.  This helps to create an environment that prevents access to the area without adult supervision.  Pool safety is of utmost importance.

Not only do fences keep pool areas safe their installation is required by the B.O.C.A. Many local communities also have regulations regarding swimming pool fencing.  All swimming pools, above and below ground, are required to have a protective barrier installed.  The barrier must be at least forty-eight inches tall and be clear of elements around it that would allow someone to get over the fence.

Preventing Possible Accidents From Occuring

Installing an aluminum fence around your pool area also helps prevent people from accessing the pool area unsupervised.  Both children, pets, and outsiders will be kept from accessing the swimming pool without an adult and help prevent potential accidents from happening in your yard.

Of course, as we have previously discussed, the fencing will help keep your family and friends safe.  The fence will ensure that children aren’t able to access the water unsupervised.  It offers homeowners an extra feeling of reassurance.  Not only does it protect your children from getting into the pool area it also keeps animals from accessing the space.  Choose an aluminum fence that is over forty-eight inches tall and aluminum gates that have self-closing and self-latching hardware.

Adding Beauty To Your Pool

Aluminum fencing is also an aesthetically pleasing addition to the swimming pool area.  A lot of homeowners worry that installing a fence around the swimming pool will distract from the beauty of the pool area.  However, installing an aluminum fence can add to the attractiveness of the area.  There are many colors, styles, and options of aluminum fencing to choose from.  It doesn’t hurt that aluminum fences are easy to maintain and extremely durable.

Limiting Liability

Installing a metal pool fence helps to limit the liability that homeowners take on with pool ownership.  Swimming pool owners assume extra liability for injuries taking place in your pool.  An aluminum fence around the perimeter of your pool area is a terrific first step in creating a safe pool environment.

iFenceUSA is an online manufacturer and distributor of wholesale aluminum fencing. With over 18 styles of aluminum fence panels and gates to choose from, we have aluminum fences that will meet your wants and need.  Choose from custom aluminum fencing options including: Commercial Grade Aluminum Fencing, Residential Grade Aluminum Fencing, Pool Grade Aluminum Fencing, and Industrial Aluminum Fencing all at https://ifenceusa.com/.  For more information contact one of our aluminum fence experts toll free 800.762.2907 or via email at info@ifenceusa.com.

iFenceUSA

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Common Shingle Roof Maintenance Increases Your Roofs Health

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

In construction on of the single most expensive elements is the roof.  When a roofing contractor is hired they are aware that it is their duty to protect the homeowner’s investment with proper installation as well as educating them on the basics of regular maintenance.  One of the biggest misconceptions is that once a new roof is installed you can be hands off as a homeowner.  Hiring a professional roofing contractor to do a thorough roof inspection and maintenance upkeep on the roof is vital for the longevity of your roof, at least once a year.

Asphalt is the most commonly used material in residential roofing.  In fact, not only is it the most common material for Michigan roofs, studies suggest that one in five homeowners throughout the United States.  Not only do asphalt shingles look nice when installed, they are easy to install on a number of different house styles and are durable throughout many different weather elements.

Even though asphalt roofs are known to take quite a bit of abuse damage can still occur.

Common damage to the roof includes:

  • Weather elements: sun, wind, hail, rain, and snow
  • Biological elements: algae, mold, leaves, twigs
  • Improper installation or faulty repairs

Even though your roof may look like it is in tip top shape there may be damage that that is unseen to the untrained eye.  Upkeep on the homes roof ensures that it is in proper condition to protect your home and family.  Inexpensive maintenance investments may keep expensive repairs down the road.  Once a year, twice preferred, it is important to have the shingle roof inspected and repaired as needed by a professional roofer.

Maintenance Of Your Roof

The first step in regular maintenance that needs to be done is general housekeeping, just as we would with the interior of our home.  Housekeeping on a roof includes cleaning the debris, leaves, and algae from the shingles.  As this process is done roofing contractors will pay special attention to the roofs skylights, vents, chimney flashing, ventilation, and more.  During this process it will be important to ensure that the debris is deposited appropriately and not left to enter the homes gutters.  Gutters must stay clear and free of debris to allow proper water flow away from the homes foundation.

After the roof has been cleared of debris it is time for the roofer to perform a detailed inspection of the roof.  They will be looking for issues that could spell trouble down the road.  Finding a roofer that will work with you year after year is important because they are familiar with your roof and will be able to catch differences faster than if switching contractors often.

Minor Repairs To Roof To Extend Life

After the roof has been cleaned and inspected it is time to repair any and all issues that have been found.  Common repairs include: replacing or repairing shingles, flashing, gutters, and downspouts.  The repairs done to keep up on your roof will help the longevity of your roof.  The money spent on roofing repairs is well spent.  Roof repairs are inexpensive in comparison to the installation of a new roof.

Last but not least is record keeping.  Homeowners and roofing professionals need to keep an updated log on maintenance and repairs on the roof.  These logs should include updated images of the roof in case there are questions during previous inspections.  It will be simpler to determine the amount of actual wear.

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Home Pro Roofing MI

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Getting Your Financial Future in Order with Bankruptcy

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Although we don’t intentionally do it, sometimes we make ill-advised financial moves that lead to bankruptcy. While filing for bankruptcy can provide a reprieve for those who are unable to repay their debts, there are consequences which may affect your future, for instance:

  • Bankruptcy may place some restrictions on your employment or running a business
  • It doesn’t necessarily release from all debts, and your trustee may sell all your assets
  • Your name may permanently appear on the National Personal Insolvency Index (NPII)
  • You must inform a credit provider of your bankruptcy when trying to obtain future credit
  • While bankruptcy lasts for three years and a day, your trustee can lodge an objection to extend the bankruptcy for up to eight years

Do not be discouraged because there is life after bankruptcy. First, a good bankruptcy attorney can help you in initializing a debt management plan and ensure that you attend credit counseling sessions where you can receive free advice on important steps to take in the future to help you abate the damaging impact of insolvency.

There is no denying that bankruptcy can be a daunting and very emotional decision, however, having a bankruptcy lawyer by your side, he or she can help you find various debt relief options that may be available to you and most importantly, he or she can stop creditors from harassing you. It is also your bankruptcy attorney’s duty to help you negotiate, review and sign any reaffirmation agreements on secured property that you want to keep. Your bankruptcy attorney may appear in further court required appearances on your behalf to satisfy the bankruptcy court’s administrative requirements. While that is happening, consider the following ways of getting your financial future in order after filing for bankruptcy:

  • Stick to a budget

If living beyond your means is what may have got you in a bankruptcy pickle, creating and sticking to a realistic budget will help you become extra vigilant about your finances and prevent you from incurring unnecessary debts.

  • Set up automatic bill payments

One of the single, most important things you can do to restore your finances and your credit is making it a priority to pay all your current bills on time and offset any existing bills that you may have accrued in the past.

  • Get a secured credit card

By obtaining a secured credit card, you start depositing a prearranged amount of money into a bank account, which becomes your credit limit. Charging small amounts each month and repaying your debts as agreed is yet another strategy to rebuild your credit rating after bankruptcy.

  • Save

Now that you’re free from most of the debt, it’s up to you to manage your money. Start by building an emergency fund. Also look for financial coaching offered by various financial advisers to help you in managing and keeping your finances in check.

Bohikian Law Group specializes in chapter 7 and chapter 13 bankruptcies in Michigan. Contact us today to find a bankruptcy attorney that will help you in debt relief at http://www.bohikianlaw.com/ today.

Bohikian Law

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3 Common Computer Glitches: Is it Software or Hardware Related?

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The world we live in is run on advances in technology.  From the timing of the stop lights to the programs we work with daily, our everyday lives are made simpler with technology.  What happens though when the technology that is so intertwined within our daily lives fails?  With personal computers these problems are inevitable; from user error to complex hardware issues, pc troubleshooting basics are a must for everyday users.

Slow Computer Speed

Many common complaints regarding user’s PC’s surround the speed of the systems.  One day our computers are running without issue and the next they are crawling along at a snail’s pace.  A slow computer could occur for a number of software or hardware related issue.  When a computer is slow from software related issues it could be from a virus or malware infection, too many open windows, or even from an accumulation of temporary files being uploaded.  Slow computer issues can also come from the systems hardware.  If you have ruled out software issues have the systems hard drive checked out for failure, not enough RAM, or an older CPU that needs to be replaced.

Constant Restarting of Your PC

Sometimes it seems as if your PC might be possessed; computers that keep restarting on their own can cause a great deal of headaches for users.  When your computer keeps restarting without the users request it can signal issues with either the computers software or hardware systems.  When a system begins to reset on its own first check the software for any automatic OS update errors.  Another issue could come from a virus or malware infection.  This is easily remedied by taking your computer in for service at a local computer repair company for virus removal scans.  If software isn’t to blame, then it’s time to look into the computers hardware.  Check the computers graphics card, motherboard and network card drivers, all which could be to blame for the computer restarting on its own.

External Computer Component Failure

Another common computer issues have to do with the keyboard, mouse, or printer not functioning as they should. Again, this can have something to do with either software or hardware.  Check the computers drivers, update them and verify if this was the issue or if it still remains.  If the keyboard, mouse, or printer are still not working as they should check the systems hardware.  Look to make sure the computers ports or peripheral components are working properly.  If not, this could be the issue at hand.

Using Your Local Computer Repair Source

These are just three common issues that affect everyday computer users.  The best solution anytime your computer is not functioning as it should be take it in for troubleshooting and diagnosis at your local computer repair source.  Most computer issues can easily be diagnosis and fixed relatively quickly as computer consultants understand just how important computer technology is to your everyday life.

Learn more about Creative Programs and Systems, CPS, and the IT solutions they provide including IT consulting, computer consulting, network consulting, networking, server installation, IT disaster recovery, computer repair, virus removal, malware removal, computer tune ups, data backup systems, computer troubleshooting, structured cabling, low voltage wiring, website design, graphic design, logo design, website hosting, search engine placement, iphone app programming, android app programming, and custom programming at www.cpsmi.com.  To contact one of our IT experts, call 810.224.5252 today or via email at info@cpsmi.com.

Creative Programs and Systems

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Pre-Planning Goes a Long Way In Product Labeling

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Designing a label for your products is a big endeavor for your company.  It requires companies to consider many different aspects of the product and the end user.  Information is gathered and then given to graphic artists who use the collected data to create an end design.  This complex process is not something that business’s can ignore.  A label designed without consideration of the product and users will ultimately fail. In this installment on label and packaging design we will discuss what goes into the pre-planning process.

Pre-Planning for Custom Label Design

There is a lot to consider even before taking pen to paper or mouse to screen when label design is involved.  Companies need to take time to research their competitors, their target market and demographics, the products packaging material, the shape of the package, and label material options.  Once this is accomplished, the information is passed on to the graphic designer and from there they will be able to more effectively create a label for your product’s needs.

Designing a product label for your ideal customer means that you have established who your ideal customer is.  Consumers respond differently to visual cues like text font, images, and colors.  It is important to find out how hold your target market it, gender, values, education level, and familiarity of the brand.  Once this has been established you can take this one step further and create a visual aide of the person or people you want the designer to consider when designing the new product label.

Knowing Your Competitors

Examine your competitors and analyze what they are doing.  This will allow you to differentiate your self from them.  Everything about their product label should be carefully identified.  Take note of the colors used within the label, the font style, images, and ratio of label to package.  Similar products often are targeted towards the same demographics.  These people are your direct competition.  It is important to know everything about their label attributes and do it better.

Flexible Packaging And Shrink Sleeve Options

There are a number of options available to choose from when it comes to packaging and labeling.  One popular option is a package and label all in one in the form of flexible packaging.  Another is shrink sleeves where the label is shrunk using heat on to packages of any size and shape.  One of the benefits of both of these options is that they offer label designers the ability to design a three-hundred-and-sixty-degree space.

Your products label has the opportunity to make or break your product line.  Up to 75% of shoppers make buying decisions while in the store.  This is what makes the task of designing a products label so crucial.  The label must be well-designed, demand attention, and influence consumers into making a buying decision.

Learn more about Anchor Printing and their vast line of custom product label & packaging options including: Shrink Sleeve Labels, Flexible Packaging, Roll-Fed Labeling, Pressure Sensitive and Cut & Stack Labels at http://www.anchorprinting.com.  To contact one of our label specialists, call toll free at 800.748.0209 or via email at info@anchorprinting.com.

Anchor Printing

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Importance of Quality Service, Repair, and Maintenance on Medical Equipment

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Equipment used in medical facilities is critical for healthcare professionals and patients alike.  Medical equipment such as linear accelerators and CT scanners are needed to allow care givers to precisely monitor and treat patients.  If medical devices fail, patient care declines and outcomes can be affected.  Patient care is of the utmost importance thus why quality service, repair, and maintenance on medical equipment is an absolute necessity; it is in fact vital to the overall health of the people you are treating.  Quality patient treatment is crucial for patient outcome as well as the growth of your practice.

Properly Cared for Medical Equipment Is Safer

Medical equipment that is services, repaired, and maintained on a regular basis is safer for both patients and hospital personnel.  With regular inspection and maintenance issues that could potentially arise can be caught and taken care of immediately rather than waiting until patient care is affected and devices malfunction or stop working all together.

Working Smarter Not Harder

Performing maintenance on a routine basis is a more efficient way to operate.  Taking a proactive approach allows facilities to plan when medical equipment will be taken out of rotation.  It allows facilities to schedule maintenance around patient care thus never compromising either.

Prevention Saves Money

What medical facility isn’t looking to save money?  Using a preventative maintenance schedule saves facilities money for a number of reasons.   One of the main reasons for this is that complete replacement of medical equipment like linear accelerators and CT scanners is costly.  Emergency repairs are also very expensive.  Ensuring the equipment is maintained and always working at its peak performance levels medical facilities can assure that they are operating at optimal level thus lasting longer.  When you are able to maintain equipment for a longer period of time you will have a greater return on your initial investment which decreases expenses and is ideal for growing medical practices.

It’s Not Too Late To Call

Don’t fret if you have not been keeping up on your routine medical equipment maintenance.  It is never to late to get started making sure you are on the right track.  Call local service, repair, and maintenance medical equipment repair company, such as Acceletronics, today to get your equipment on a regular schedule to get the benefits of regular safeguarding.

Acceletronics is an independent service company dedicated to delivering the best equipment performance and service reliability from Linear Accelerators and CT Scanners across all major brands and models. Learn more about Acceletronics and their selection of new and refurbished linear accelerators and CT scanners today at http://www.acceletronics.com.  To contact one of our LINAC experts call 610.524.3300.

Acceletronics

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What Happens If You Pass Away Without A Plan in Place?

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No one likes to consider their mortality which often leads to the issue of individuals passing away without putting into place an estate plan, will, trust, or other legal documentation to distribute their assets.  Many times, people assume that they are too young to need an estate plan in place, that their assets are not worth the creation of a plan, or that getting this documentation in place is expensive.  These assumptions are in fact not true.  Obviously, the best time to document a plan to follow upon your death is far before the need to use it arises.  These plans encompass far more than just distributing your assets and tax avoidance.

Estate plans are put in place not only to be your voice upon your passing but also so that if you become incapacitated and are no longer able to make decisions for yourself that you can appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf.  If you have not appointed an individual to make choices on your behalf, then the state will step in.  If this occurs, your desires are left unknown and the state will step in to take over the process which is known as intestacy.

Intestacy rules vary from state to state.  In general, however, the distribution of assets by intestacy requires a probate proceeding.  Most families hope to avoid probate when a family member passes as it is costly, time consuming, and open to the public.  It is also frowned upon as there is no way for the state to know what your desires would have been so your assets are distributed as they see fit.

If you do not have proper documentation in place and become incapacitated a judge will decide for you who will be in charge of you and your assets.  This process is known as guardianship and conservatorship.  It can be quite an expensive for your family even if there isn’t a disagreement on your care or asset distribution.  It can often cost more than what would have been paid to have in place a proper estate plan.

In order to avoid this situation, it is crucial to take the appropriate steps which can include an all-inclusive estate plan with a living trust and power of attorney in place.  This ensures that if you become disabled or pass away the division of your assets along with your desired wished-for care are known by your family and easily executed without burdening your family.

Learn more about attorney Sean J. Nichols and the legal services he provides for clients including: estate planning, elder law issues, Medicaid planning, elder care, probate law, guardianships, and power of attorney (POA) at www.seanjnichols.com.  To contact the offices of Sean J Nichols, call 734.386.0224 today.

Sean J. Nichols

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