Livingston Reporting - page 16

Comprehensive Eye Exams: Visual Acuity

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Getting routine eye exams is vital to being proactive with your health management. During a comprehensive eye examination, your eye specialist will screen for prevalent eye conditions, evaluate the coordination of your eyes, and much more. Diseases such as diabetes and hypertension are often detected during eye exams.At Zen Eye Institute, Our Comprehensive Eye Exam Includes Measuring Your Visual Acuity – But What Exactly Does This Entail?  Visual acuity refers to the clarity or sharpness of vision. It measures how well an individual can discern the details and shapes of objects at a distance. Several tests measure visual acuity, but the Snellen chart test is the most common. The Snellen chart displays letters of progressively smaller sizes, and the individual being tested is asked to read these letters from a specific distance, usually 20 feet. The results are often expressed as a fraction, such as 20/20. The top number refers to the distance from the chart, and the bottom number indicates the distance at which a person with normal eyesight could read the same line you correctly read.For instance, if you have 20/40 vision, you need to be 20 feet away to read a letter that a person with normal eyesight could read from 40 feet away.There are also visual acuity tests to measure near vision. These often involve reading from a card held about 14 inches away from the eyes. It’s essential to regularly test visual acuity because it can identify vision changes that might require corrective lenses or other treatments.Other Components of a Comprehensive Eye ExamMeasuring your visual acuity is just one component of a comprehensive eye exam. We test to ensure that your eyes are properly working together, can track moving objects, access a full spectrum of colors, detect blind spots, and determine your perception of depth. We also measure the pressure in your eyes with a harmless puff of air to test for Glaucoma.Other screening may include ophthalmoscopy, which examines the interior structures of the eye, such as your blood vessels, retina, and optic nerve, to diagnose and monitor a multitude of ocular and systemic conditions. Retinal imaging and screening slit lamp examinations are other tools ophthalmologists can use to help diagnose various eye conditions and diseases if symptoms suggest.What Is a Phoropter?A phoropter, or a refractor, is the large instrument placed in front of a patient’s face during an eye examination. The phoropter allows the eye care specialist to determine the patient’s eyeglass prescription, often referred to as “refraction.” This tool has various lenses of different strengths that can be rotated into the patient’s view, allowing the optometrist or ophthalmologist to determine the best lens power for each eye to provide the sharpest vision.How Often Should I Get a Comprehensive Eye Exam?Your eye doctor will typically advise you to undergo a comprehensive eye exam annually. However, if pre-existing conditions elevate your risk, you may be advised to have exams more regularly.When did you last undergo a thorough eye check-up? Delay no further — contact Zen Eye Institute to book your eye evaluation.________Zen Eye Institute, formally Rohr Eye & Laser Center, has served the greater Grand Blanc area for over twenty years. Now operating under Dr. Charles Zenzen, we offer comprehensive medical and surgical eye care treating various conditions and diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, dry eyes, and more. For exceptional eye care at our state-of-the-art practice, call (810) 579-0202 to make an appointment today! Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com

Rohr Eye and Laser Center

Assessing the Effectiveness: Calculating ROI for Print Marketing Initiatives

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Image of a person sitting on a stack of coins to signify getting a return on your investment for your print marketing campaign.

Despite being one of the oldest forms of advertising, print marketing remains a powerful tool in today’s digital age. For businesses investing in brochures, flyers, posters, or direct mail campaigns, measuring the return on investment (ROI) is crucial. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you determine the effectiveness of your print marketing efforts.

Define Clear Objectives

Before launching a campaign, determine what you hope to achieve. Whether it’s increasing brand awareness, driving traffic to a website, or generating sales, having clear objectives will enable you to measure success more accurately.

Use Trackable Tools

  • Unique URLs or QR Codes: Direct your print audience to specific landing pages using unique URLs or QR codes. This allows you to monitor how many visitors access your site directly from your print materials.
  • Custom Phone Numbers: If your print campaign includes a call to action that involves phoning your business, consider using a unique phone number exclusively for that campaign.

Include Special Offers

Offer exclusive deals or discounts available only through your print campaign. Track redemption rates to gauge the campaign’s influence on sales.

Survey and Ask

When a new customer interacts with your business, ask how they heard about you. This can provide direct insights into which marketing methods are most effective.

Calculate Costs and Revenues

To measure ROI, you need to understand both the cost of the campaign and the revenue it generated:

  • Costs: This includes design, printing, distribution, and any other associated costs.
  • Revenue: Track the sales generated specifically from the print campaign using the tools and techniques mentioned above.

Use the ROI Formula

ROI = (Net Profit of Campaign – Total Cost of Campaign Investment) * 100 = ROI

Multiply the result by 100 to get a percentage. A positive ROI indicates that the campaign was profitable, whereas a negative one suggests a loss.

Consider Intangible Benefits

ROI isn’t just about direct sales. Print campaigns can also enhance brand awareness, reputation, and customer loyalty. While these benefits might not translate immediately into sales, they can lead to long-term growth and should be considered.

Continually Adjust and Refine

The business world is dynamic, and your marketing efforts should be, too. Regularly measure your ROI and adjust your campaigns accordingly. This recurring process ensures your strategies remain effective and yield the desired results.

While digital marketing often gets the spotlight, print marketing remains an impactful tool for many businesses. However, its success hinges on effective tracking and measurement. By leveraging these strategies, companies can get the most bang for their buck, aligning their print campaigns with broader business objectives and continuously driving growth.

Not sure where to start with your print marketing campaign? Contact Econo Print for a consultation!

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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

Available Diagnostic Imaging for Smaller Communities & Young Athletes

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Image of a child hurt by playing soccer and the need for resonance imaging.

The Need for Imaging in Less-Populated Areas

Numerous Americans encounter the inconvenience and discomfort of traveling long distances to reach the nearest MRI facility. Due to declining populations and the substantial operational expenses associated with imaging facilities, many small-town clinics have had to close their doors. This leaves patients to fend for themselves, compelled to undergo testing in unfamiliar towns far away, with healthcare professionals they’ve never met and may never encounter again.

When experts in the field address this issue, their attention often gravitates toward older cancer patients—a valid concern, considering the aging demographics in rural regions and the unique challenges this demographic faces regarding extensive travel for imaging services. However, this predicament impacts all residents of these communities, including those at lower risk for cancer. Young individuals are also at risk. Over 30 million children participate in organized sports annually, and approximately 3.5 million will sustain injuries. Swift and precise diagnosis of these injuries is crucial for proper treatment and recovery, and diagnostic imaging has played a pivotal role in modernizing the approach to treating sports-related injuries.

Diagnostic Imaging Technology

When children lack access to accurate injury diagnosis, they may encounter lifelong repercussions. While X-rays are relatively accessible, more advanced equipment like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and CT scanners are seldom found in rural and smaller communities. These advanced machines are essential for accurately diagnosing soft-tissue injuries that X-rays cannot detect. However, with prices exceeding $1 million, they remain financially out of reach for many small clinics.

In response to this challenge, smaller community clinics are turning to pre-owned medical equipment. Machines that are no longer required at larger facilities but still have many years of useful life left in them are perfectly suitable for these scenarios. By adopting this approach, clinics can remain operational, and healthcare providers can offer more precise diagnoses and treatments for sports-related injuries than relying solely on physical examinations. Many medical practices have discovered that pre-owned equipment provides a practical solution to their financial constraints, enabling them to serve their communities better.

Looking for low-cost equipment and parts? RadParts is your source for linear accelerators, radiation equipment, and more!

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RadParts, a TTG Imaging Solutions Company, is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost components 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

Water Filters Cartridges and Softeners

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Water Filters Cartridges and Softeners

If your home or business depends on well water, you will likely face some diverse water quality issues.

Luckily, various water filters cater to these needs, ranging from cartridges to whole-house water filters. Among these are different types and sizes specifically designed to target and remove certain contaminants from the water. Choosing the appropriate technology and size for your home’s water usage is imperative. Proper installation by professionals and consistent system maintenance are essential to extending the lifespan and ensuring the optimal performance of your water filtration equipment.

What Are Sediment Water Filter Cartridges?

Sediment filters use a physical barrier, such as a mesh or pleated material, to remove larger particles like sand, silt, and rust from water. Their efficiency depends on the micron rating, which determines the size of fragments they can filter out. A too-small micron rating can reduce water pressure, while a too-large one might not effectively remove sediment. Finding the right balance requires experience that usually only a water treatment specialist will know. At Reynolds Water Conditioning, our professionals can assist you in determining the best fit for your unique scenario.

Sediment filters are important because residue and minerals can wear out water-using appliances and hinder the performance of other water treatment systems. While they improve the quality of your drinking water, additional purification steps may be required.

What Are Carbon Water Filter Cartridges?

Carbon water filter cartridges utilize activated carbon to eliminate chemicals like chlorine and certain

odors from water. These filters are also found in reverse osmosis systems to pre-treat water by removing chlorine, which can damage the system’s membrane. The process of trapping particles in the porous carbon is called adsorption. Over time, the filter’s adsorption capacity maxes out, requiring a change. Matching the filter’s micron rating and size to the intended use is crucial.

Other specialized filter cartridges address unique water issues like pH balance and pipe protection. A water treatment expert can recommend these based on specific needs.

What Are Whole-house, Point-of-Entry Water Softeners and Filters?

Water softeners, a type of whole-house filtration, treat hard water by removing minerals like magnesium, calcium, iron, and manganese. An “up-flow” softener is advised to prevent mineral accumulation for high iron or manganese levels. Opt for high-efficiency softeners for better water and salt usage.

These comprehensive systems treat water at the point-of-entry into a building, ensuring that all the water used in the house is filtered. Point-of-entry systems offer solutions for high water usage scenarios where cartridge filters aren’t practical. These systems are self-cleaning, which helps to extend their lifespan. A point-of-entry carbon filter provides prolonged chlorine removal through extended contact time for town water rich in chlorine.

Removing Radon and Arsenic from Well Water

In Michigan, well water may contain Radon and Arsenic. Water softeners won’t address these. Radon is managed using aeration systems that release the gas from water, safely venting it outdoors. For arsenic, tanks with specific resin can capture it before entering a home’s water. For drinking water, reverse osmosis systems can effectively tackle arsenic. Consult with a professional for the best solution.

Treating Well Water for Bad Tastes and Odors

Various systems can address taste, odor, sediment, and other contaminants. A water test is the starting point to determine the suitable approach.

To test the quality of your well water and determine viable solutions, contact Reynolds Water Conditioning today!

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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

Closing Your Inground Pool for the Season

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Leaves being scooped out of the pool

All good things, including weekends and vacations, come to an end. Even seemingly endless summers conclude. Unless you can swim year-round (lucky you!), closing your pool for the colder months is essential. This article guides you through on why, when, and how to do this properly. Doing so will set you up for an easier start next season, saving time and money.

Why We Need to Close and Winterize Inground Pools

Closing your pool correctly for winter prevents unsightly debris, algae, and potential damage to your skimmer. Proper closure means a more manageable and cheaper reopening in spring. Moreover, by closing your pool, you save current effort and expenses on cleaning, chemicals, and running the pump, even with cost-effective equipment.

When Should We Close Our Pools

Take notice when temperatures consistently hover around 65 degrees, and close your pool when temps drop below this threshold. This allows you to maintain your pool use for as long as possible until winter sets in while helping to prevent algae formation during the colder months.

Preparing to Close an Inground Pool

Be sure to have all the supplies needed to close your pool.

  • Winterized pool/pump covers
  • Pool brush/vacuum
  • Plugs for return jets and skimmer plug
  • Shop-Vac, ladder, etc.
  • WinterPill
  • Water test strips
  • Pool chemicals: chlorine, shock, algaecide, metal sequestrant, enzymes, and pool antifreeze
  • pH increaser/pH decreaser
  • Alkalinity increaser/ calcium hardness increaser

Ten Steps to Close Your Pool

Mastering this ten-step process will become easier over time and will make your opening season much more relaxed. Remember, pool maintenance is a long-term commitment, but your efforts now will pay off in the spring.

Step 1: Thoroughly Clean Your Pool

Brush the pool’s bottom and sides, focusing on areas prone to algae. This removes potential algae spores and preps the pool for shock treatment. After brushing, vacuum the floor to collect any remaining sediment, ensuring it doesn’t reattach during winter.

Step 2: Balance Your Pool Water

Maintaining balanced water is crucial, even while you’re closing the pool for the season. With the pool covered and the pump inactive, your efforts now will keep the water in better condition through winter. Ensuring the correct balance of sanitizer and chemicals protects against corrosion, excessive cloudiness, and potentially expensive repairs. Balanced water sets the stage for the upcoming steps.

Step 3: Add Winterizing Chemicals

While balancing chemicals prevent swampy waters, winterizing goes beyond regular maintenance. For pools prone to algae, apply one or two doses of algaecide. If there’s a risk of metal stains due to high metal levels or excessive algaecide, introduce a dose of metal sequestrant. Enhance algaecide efficiency with pool enzymes, which combat organic contaminants. Consider using the WinterPill, a chlorine and clarifier combo that releases over months. If freezing is a concern, add pool-grade antifreeze — avoid automotive antifreeze as it’s toxic.

Step 4: Give Your Pool a Shock Treatment

For outdoor pools, it’s crucial to shock the pool, but do this at dusk or nighttime to prevent the sun from negating the effect. After shocking at sunset, run the pump for eight hours, and prepare for the subsequent steps the next day. If you’ve recently removed algae, adjust the shock amount based on its intensity. Always ensure you use the correct shock amount for your pool’s size.

Step 5: Adjust Your Pool’s Water Level

For those in colder climates, you will need to lower the pool’s water level to prevent damage from freezing. When draining, ensure the chemically treated water is disposed of appropriately per local guidelines.

Regarding how much water to lower:

  • For vinyl liners, reduce by an inch.
  • For plaster or non-vinyl liners:
  • Decrease by six inches for solid covers.
  • Eighteen to twenty-four inches for mesh covers.
  • For automatic covers, drain to the bottom of the skimmer.

Always consult with your liner’s manufacturer for specific recommendations.

Step 6: Refresh Your Filter Pump

Ensure your filter is clean so it doesn’t contaminate your pool next season with lingering debris.

  • For cartridge filters: Remove the cartridge, soak it in a pool filter cleaner, rinse, dry, and replace.
  • For sand and DE filters: Backwash is needed. After backwashing, switch the valve back to “filter” and drain all water from the pump, filter, and heater (if you have one).

Step 7: Empty Your System to Prevent Freezing

For those in freezing climates, removing all water from your plumbing is essential to avoid pipe damage. While antifreeze helps, it’s not a complete solution. Use an air compressor or a ShopVac to blow out and ensure the lines are completely dry.

Step 8: Remove and Store Pool Accessories

Remove pool ladders, rails, and other accessories to protect your pool and prevent corrosion. Clean, dry, and store them safely. Store all electronics indoors. In warmer climates, even if lines aren’t blown out, remove return fittings from jets and the line for automatic cleaners. Clean and remove skimmer baskets. For saltwater pools, remove, drain, and store the chlorine generator and turn off all power and gas.

Step 9: Secure Your Pool with a Winter Cover

A winterized cover protects the pool from debris and ensure chemicals stay balanced. The cover will prevent contaminants and rain, snow, etc. from affecting the pool. Ensure there are no gaps. While covers typically rest on the pool’s water and may accumulate rainwater, regularly check and avoid letting it sink. You can prevent this by using a reliable cover pump to remove accumulated water and keep the cover in place.

Step 10: Anticipate the Next Season!

As summer wraps up and our swimsuits retreat and floaties deflate, remember there’s excitement ahead. By responsibly closing your pool, next season’s start will be hassle-free. Meanwhile, savor the fall and winter seasons and minimal pool upkeep.

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

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

Pound Pool Plastering

Preserving Your Fall Harvest

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Image of fall plants around a plate

Since the beginning of time, humans have been tasked with prolonging the life of their food. Our ancestors found ways to preserve food throughout the cold months to survive. In northern regions, they preserved meat by freezing it; in southern regions, they preserved meat by drying it. Over time, we’ve perfected our ways of maintaining all sorts of foods. In this article, we have gathered the most popular methods people use to preserve their fall harvest.

Fermenting Your Food

Fermentation is a process that induces chemical changes in organic substances through the action of microorganisms and their enzymes. This method not only transforms the food’s taste and texture but also creates conditions that help preserve it.

  • Use kosher salt or salt without anti-caking ingredients, as anti-caking agents will ruin the fermentation process.
  • Only use filtered water because contaminates may deter proper fermentation.
  • Ensure it’s fully submerged in the brine to prevent spoilage. 
  • Start the fermentation at room temperature; however, once the process is underway, move to a refrigerated space to slow the progression and allow it to maintain a crunchy texture when consumed.

Pickling Your Food

Pickling is a method of preserving or extending the shelf life of food by immersing it in an acidic solution, often vinegar or a naturally fermented brine.

  • Prepare your vegetables by processing them in the manner best suited for what you’re pickling, whether that involves slicing, cutting, peeling, or trimming.
  • Make the brine, which is just water, some pickling or kosher salt, and vinegar. You can use various kinds of vinegar. Bring this to a boil, ensuring the salt fully dissolves, and let it cool.
  • Add optional spices or sweeteners such as dill, red pepper, ginger, thyme, garlic, peppercorns, salt, and sugar into your clean, prepared jars.
  • Pack the vegetables into these jars without smooshing them, leaving about half an inch of space at the top.   
  • Pour the cool brine into the containers, just covering the vegetables.
  • Tap out the air bubbles and seal the lid.

Canning Your Food

Canning is among the latest and most popular methods to preserve food. Foods that are alkaline-based require pressure canning, which is a delicate process that raises the temperature of the food higher than the boiling point to kill any pathogens that may spoil the food.

  • Fill the jars with the food item you are preserving up to the bottom of the lid line, allowing some space for expansion.
  • Tap out any air bubbles before closing the jar.
  • Secure the lid tightly so air cannot enter or escape the container.
  • Boil the filled jars for the required time based on the recipe.

Drying or Dehydrating Your Food

Removing moisture from food products helps to increase its longevity and prevents bacterial and fungal growth. From fish to beef, tomatoes, peppers, various fruits, and herbs – all have been dried since the beginning of time. Dehydration requires little to no technology; the direct hot sun will suffice, or a low-temperature oven can quickly do the job.

  • Dehydrating fruits is a great way to preserve them for an extended period, intensify their flavors, and create tasty, nutrient-dense snacks. First, wash and clean, peel and core, slice, dip into ¼ cup of lemon juice and 1 quart of water for 10 minutes to prevent browning, and oven dry (140 degrees for 6-12 hours), place in a food dehydrator (135 degrees for 4-12 hours), or air dry (string on thread/wire, out of direct sunlight for several days/weeks), then pack into airtight containers.
  • Clean and gut fish, fillet, salt, soak in a brine solution, lay flat on a wire rack in the sun for 3-4 days, or dry in an oven (145 degrees for 10-12 hours) or in a dehydrator. Store in a cool, airtight container.
  • Select choice/lean beef (with no fat), cut into thin strips, marinate for several hours or overnight, and place on a rack in the oven (on lowest heat for 4-8 hours) or in a dehydrator. Store in a cool, airtight container.
  • Hang woody herbs, like rosemary and oregano, upside down in a well-ventilated area. Soft-stemmed herbs, such as basil and parsley may lose flavor when dried, as their essential oils are fickle.

Freezing Your Food

Placing your food in a freezer helps to ensure that your perishables stay fresh for an extended period. Be alerted to carefully seal your packaging to prevent freezer burn, and be mindful that over time, the quality of your food items will deteriorate when defrosted.

  • Blanching is a cooking process in which vegetables or fruits are briefly immersed in boiling (lightly salted) water, then quickly cooling (aka “shocking”) in iced water. This process helps to remove microorganisms from the surface while slightly softening the texture for pliability. It also aids in maintaining vibrant colors and flavors. Once your fruits and vegetables are blanched, which reduces the water content, it’s safe for freezing.  
  • Layer your fruits and vegetables to avoid clumps of watery produce.

Looking for more survival tips and how-tos? Check out our other blogs at Wolf Survival Gear for your needed information.

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. Please make us your one-stop shop and prepare before you need it later. 

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

Wolf Survival Gear

August is National Water Quality Month

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Imagine life without water. It’s a terrible concept if you really think about it. A life without water or a lack of reliable, clean drinking water is not a welcome thought. Those who live in certain parts of the world are all too familiar with the barriers to obtaining clean water, while others don’t fully recognize the scarcity of this natural resource. National Water Quality Month was created to prompt people to be mindful and preserve our sacred availability of fresh water.

Earth’s Freshwater

Despite water covering 70% of Earth’s surface, only 3% is freshwater, with just 1% being easily accessible to sustain the needs of over 7 billion people. That’s a hard fact to swallow, especially when you look at a globe or satellite imagery and see Earth primarily blue. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, more than 68% of Earth’s freshwater is found in icecaps and glaciers, and just over 30% is in the ground. This leaves only .03% of our freshwater to fill lakes, rivers, and swamps.

It’s remarkable to think that the water sustaining both land and marine life on Earth is so scarce. This understanding highlights the necessity to use this resource wisely. A crucial beginning or first step is to educate ourselves and future generations on the sensible use and protection of water.

The Start of National Water Quality Month

National Water Quality Month can be traced to two U.S. congressional acts from the early 1970s to safeguard our water resources. The 1972 Clean Water Act initiated federal efforts to combat water pollution by prohibiting the excessive discharge of toxins into waterways and established standards for surface water used by humans. The Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974 further ensured the quality of groundwater and public water systems.

In 2005, National Water Quality Month was established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with support from the United Nations. This initiative aimed to encourage discussions about preserving our natural water resources, focusing on steps households and communities can take to guarantee future generations have access to safe and clean drinking water.

The Importance of Freshwater & How It Affects You

Consider the importance that water has on everything, not just humans, but also wildlife and plants – a whole ecosystem that cycles through generations. Think about the little things that you do on a daily basis that may or may not have a negative effect on water. By being aware of your specific impact, you’ll hopefully be more cognizant in making a positive change. 

Lifesaving Freshwater:

  • All living beings require water, specifically freshwater for drinking. Saltwater, due to its salinity, isn’t suitable for direct consumption.
  • Freshwater is crucial for irrigating crops. Saltwater is detrimental to most plants because it can dehydrate them and affect soil quality.
  • We rely on freshwater for sanitation, such as washing, cleaning, and other hygiene-related activities.
  • Freshwater habitats like rivers, lakes, and wetlands support distinct biodiversity. Many species are adapted only to freshwater environments and can’t survive in saltwater conditions.
  • Industries prefer freshwater for many processes since saltwater can be corrosive and requires desalination for many applications, which is energy intensive.
  • Many regions base their economy on freshwater sources. For instance, cities by freshwater lakes or rivers often have bustling economies centered on trade, tourism, and fishing.
  • Access to clean freshwater is directly linked to health. Contaminated freshwater sources can lead to diseases like cholera, dysentery, and other water-borne illnesses.

Given its scarcity and the vital role it plays in various facets of life and society, freshwater’s importance is especially pronounced. Protecting and managing freshwater resources is crucial for sustainable development and the well-being of all life on Earth.

Charities & Resources for Clean Water

Many organizations worldwide are dedicated to providing people with clean, reliable drinking water or mobilizing efforts to free our waterways from pollution. Below, we list a few trustworthy sources to review and consider their cause. If you’re able to make a monetary donation, great. But really, the primary purpose of this article is to share some knowledge about water as a precious resource and hopefully help people make a conscious effort to sustain our water for generations.

Learn more and consider donating to:

Clean Water Action – Michigan: https://cleanwater.org/make-special-gift-protect-clean-water-michigan

The Ocean Clean Up: https://theoceancleanup.com/donate/

World Water Reserve: https://worldwaterreserve.com/clean-water-charity-organizations/

For even more information, visit: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), The Clean Water Act (CWA), The World Health Organization (WHO), and your local water utility to stay abreast of the latest happenings in your community and beyond.

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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

Printing Strategies to Market Your Business

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There is virtue in finding balance; the same can be said with a good marketing strategy. Promoting your business is most successful when using a combination of digital and print mediums because you’ll reach a larger audience to view your product or service. While both advertising channels are important, this article focuses on using print to market your business, a tried-and-true marketing approach.

Printed materials can provide a personal experience that digital media can’t replicate, making them effective tools for establishing a brand and driving sales. Print is in the moment and captures one’s full attention, even for just a few moments. Print can be luxury in a package with glossy ads or high-end publications. It sets a tone of trust and quality that one can’t get online, and with more spam and less junk mail, direct mail marketing is making a comeback. 

Initial Marketing Strategizing

When strategizing to market your business, first define your goals. What do you want to achieve? Do you want to increase brand awareness, promote a specific product or service, or invite customers to a special event?

want to increase brand awareness, promote a specific product or service, or invite customers to a special event?

After pinpointing your audience, it’s important to determine and research your competition. Understand what’s already out there and try to set yourself apart. Establish a budget and gauge results before adjusting. Create and design engaging high-quality graphics and content and ensure that it aligns with your brand’s identity (color, fonts, messaging.) Keep material clean, professional, and easy to understand.

Traditional Print Marketing Materials

Below are some of the most common forms of print marketing proven to grow your business:

Business Cards: Networking is about making personal connections, so should sharing your contact information. Always have business cards on hand. Ensure they have essential contact information, your logo, and a tagline or brief descriptor about your business. This way, your brand remains beyond your first interaction and boosts your professional image.

Brochures & Flyers: These are handy, compact documents that can hold a lot of valuable material. Include only essential highlights about your business, products/services, and contact information. Depending on your audience, these are ideal to distribute at trade shows, local events, bulletin boards, or even door-to-door.

Yard Signs & Banners: Large signs or banners are great ways to promote special events, sales, or new product launches. Place them in high-traffic areas to generate unplanned impulse stops and help direct people to your door.

Direct Mail Campaigns: Readers are often excited to open and hold mail received from their mailbox, especially if it’s a product they are already interested in. By sending postcards, catalogs, or newsletters directly to your target audience, chances are high of getting a return on the investment. Be sure to use compelling call-to-action content and enticing incentives for better engagement.

Promotional Items: Like a business card, promotional products such asbranded pens, notebooks, calendars, or tote bags can serve as constant reminders of your company. Research suggests that this medium is even more impressionable than business cards. Consider using them as a lead magnet, giving a promotional item in exchange for more information about them.

Alternative Ideas for Print Marketing

Besides traditional ads in newspapers and magazines, there are a lot of other exciting ideas you can use to promote your business using print marketing. We list our favorites below:  

Branded Packaging: is becoming a popular yet pricy phenomenon. Alternatively, slip in a customized letter sharing your appreciation with the valued customer before sealing the package.   

Loyalty Cards: encourage repeat business by offering stamp or punch cards that provide rewards after a set number of purchases.

Testimonial/Review Reminders: handheld cards inviting satisfied customers to share their positive feedback online helps build trust among your consumers.

Printed QR Codes: QR codes are an easy way to lead people toyour website, promotional video, online menu, digital vouchers, and more. Include QR codes on your business cards, flyers, and direct mail to make it easy for customers to find what you want them to see.

Remember, the key to any successful marketing strategy is consistency and quality. Ensure that your printed materials reflect your brand and the quality of your products or services. Also, make sure that your printed materials are up to date with current offers, prices, etc. Even as digital marketing continues to grow, the tangible nature of printed materials still offers a unique touchpoint to engage customers. With the right strategy, combining print and digital messages can complement each other, creating a cohesive multi-channel harmony.

Econo Print is your one-stop shop for marketing materials. We’ve got you covered, from business cards to banners and everything else in between! Contact us to learn how we can help you.

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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

Best ROI Home Renovations

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Home renovations are great, but when it comes to Return on Investment (ROI), some will increase your home’s value while others won’t. Typically, most home renovations will turn out an average of 70 percent ROI. By improving the quality of life in your house, home renovations can also increase the house’s overall value in the future. 

The best ROI home improvements add functional space and square footage. Some examples include basement finishing, addition projects, major landscaping, and kitchen or bathroom remodeling. Luxury upgrades for aesthetically pleasing purposes are generally not ideal for adding value to a home. 

Home improvement ROI measures a project’s financial return or profitability based on the value or gain generated from a specific investment. Moreover, most home improvements will give a partial ROI.

How to Calculate Your Home Improvement ROI

The official way to calculate home value is through an appraisal. The next best option is to calculate it with a simple formula: 

Home improvement ROI = (Net Gain from Home Improvement ÷ Cost of Home Improvement) x 100 

Divide the difference between the cost and gain, then multiply that result by 100 to get the percentage. This formula gives an estimate only; actual results vary based on several factors, including real estate market, location, project type, and timing. 

Examples of Home Renovation Projects with a Great ROI 

  • HVAC Conversion/Electrification potential ROI: 103 percent
  • Garage Door Replacement potential ROI: 103 percent
  • House Siding with Stone Veneer replacement potential ROI: 102 percent
  • Entry (steel) Door replacement ROI: 101 percent
  • Vinyl Siding potential ROI: 95 percent 
  • Fiber-Cement Siding replacement potential ROI: 89 percent
  • Mid-range Basic Kitchen Remodel potential ROI: 86 percent
  • Vinyl Window replacement potential ROI: 69 percent 
  • Mid-range Bathroom Remodel potential ROI: 67 percent 
  • Wood Window replacement potential ROI: 61 percent 

Another thing to consider when determining home improvement projects based on ROI: short- and long-term value. Adding a functional space with extra square footage or upgrading appliances are valuable enhancements that can stand the test of time. On the other hand, surface-level updates will add only short-term value because they will likely be out of style in 20 years (think shag carpeting, white laminate cabinets, etc.) Consider if you’re likely to move soon, and remember how trends change before you make any major renovations.    

Ready to add value to your home? Call the pros at JFC Remodeling!

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JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires 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

New MR, PET Images Analyze Alzheimer’s Biomarkers

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

An anti-amyloid antibody drug that reduces amyloid beta proteins in the brain has provided a novel treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. This innovative brain imaging solution for Alzheimer’s disease management can analyze Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormalities (ARIA), a known side-effect in patients using the anti-amyloid drug. Previously, careful monitoring and management of ARIA was crucial due to the drug’s side effects. 

An Artificial Intelligence (AI) company, Neurophet, specializes in brain diseases. Neurophet has created a new technology that examines ARIA-E (edema), generally detected by T2-FLAIR, and MRI sequence, along with ARIA-H (hemorrhages), mostly recognized by GRE or SWI. To properly observe cortical amyloid beta deposition, an amyloid-PET scan is essential. The AI technology developed by Neurophet predicts amyloid positivity through Magnetic Resonance (MR) images before conducting amyloid-PET scans. Since amyloid-PET scans are expensive and their use and recompense are severely restricted, the use of MR images for predicting amyloid positivity could offer a cost-effective solution in regards to clinical trials and prognosis of Alzheimer’s. Neurophet set the stage at the 2023 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) with its cutting-edge brain imaging analysis technology, which can be used in both clinical trials and Alzheimer’s disease drug prescriptions. AQUA software, a brain MRI analysis tool, examines brain atrophy observed in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s by measuring cortical amyloid beta deposition, a known causative agent of the disease. Neurophet hopes to bring the products to market side-by-side with new Alzheimer’s disease treatments. The company has invested in research and development focused on ARIA side effects. Jake Junkil Been, CEO of Neurophet, said, “Neurophet’s major products and technologies are expected to be very useful in the process of clinical trials, diagnosis, side effect monitoring, and prognosis observation of Alzheimer’s disease treatment. We are going all out to develop solutions related to Alzheimer’s disease treatment to preemptively target the high-growth Alzheimer’s disease treatment market.” ______________RadParts, a TTG Imaging Solutions Company, is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost components 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