Livingston Reporting - page 18

Links Between Eye Health and Obesity

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Despite the risks of obesity, it is a nationwide epidemic. Causing chronic diseases such as hypertension, stroke, diabetes, and more, obesity can also affect vision and overall eye health.

Researchers at the Goldschleger Eye Institute at the Sheba Medical Center discovered a link between clinically obese individuals and serious eye diseases such as Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), Cataracts, stroke-related vision loss, Glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, floppy eyelid syndrome, retinal vein occlusions, and thyroid-related eye diseases.

Despite the evidence, many members of the public are unaware of the connection between eye health and obesity. 

Eye diseases in obesity are generally caused by peripheral artery disease, which happens when the blood vessels carrying oxygen to the feet, kidneys, and eyes become jeopardized. The tiny blood vessels in the eyes are easily compromised since they are extremely thin, about half the width of a human hair.

Obesity, poor nutrition, gout, diabetes, and high blood sugar levels are also related to forming cataracts. Cataracts is an eye disease evident by an inability to focus, with cloudy vision, and typically requires surgery.

Morbidly obese individuals are at risk for increased inner eye pressure, which might increase the chances of glaucoma and glaucomatous optic neuropathy, the leading cause of vision loss and blindness.

To mitigate eye damage, it is important to maintain an active lifestyle and eat a healthy diet. Vitamins A, C, E, zeaxanthin, omega-3, zinc, and lutein help delay or prevent eye diseases.

In addition to lowering one’s weight through a balanced diet and exercise, it is imperative to have regular eye exams to preserve eyesight. 

If you have been diagnosed with an eye disease, contact the experts at Zen Eye Institute to schedule a comprehensive eye exam today. We can help provide guidance, answer questions, and treat eye issues. 

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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/ 

Michigan Lasik

Whole House Water Filtration – Rochester, MI

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Whole home water purification systems are available to tackle the different types of water quality challenges present in Michigan cities. It’s crucial to select the right technology and size the system appropriately to handle your household’s water consumption. A system installed by professionals is vital, along with consistent maintenance over time to ensure its longevity and effective operation.

While signs of water quality concerns like unpleasant odors and tastes, staining of clothes and bathroom fixtures, etc., signal existing issues, the recommended initial step is to conduct a water test. This test will identify the contaminants or minerals present in the water and their respective quantities. This information is key to making an informed system recommendation and establishing a pathway toward excellent water quality in your home.

A water softener serves as a form of whole home water filtration system, engineered to eliminate hard water minerals such as magnesium and calcium, along with dissolved iron and manganese from the water. For water carrying high concentrations of iron or manganese, often known as “the stainers,” an “up-flow” water softener is suggested to avert mineral accumulation at the base of the water softener. Additionally, high-efficiency water softeners, which are more effective in terms of water and salt utilization, are more desirable.

Systems exist that can eliminate unpleasant tastes and odors, sediment, and a host of unwanted minerals and contaminants in the water. Initiating a water test sets the stage for the appropriate solution. View our available water softeners and water conditions, or contact Reynolds Water to schedule service.

Whole House Water Filtration – Arsenic and Radon

Other contaminants found in Michigan well water include Radon and Arsenic. Radon present in water can be securely extracted using an aeration system. This system stirs the incoming well water inside a sealed chamber, allowing the radon gas to separate from the water. The gas is then safely expelled to the exterior environment.

Arsenic in water can be addressed by setting up tanks at the home’s entry point filled with a special resin designed to trap arsenic before it enters your home’s water system. Drinking water systems can also leverage reverse osmosis technology to eliminate arsenic effectively. Consult with a tech at Reynolds Water to determine the system that best suits your needs.

Reynolds Water Conditioning is a full-service water filtration and testing facility, serving Michigan residents since 1931. Contact us for further questions and assistance with your water needs.

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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

Comprehensive Guide to Home Battery Backup Systems

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The importance of going green is heavily talked about these days, and if you haven’t heard, clean energy is a great way to contribute to an eco-friendly lifestyle. Additionally, having independent energy sources can provide power during electrical outages. The batteries for these energy backup systems can be either dry or wet. Dry lithium-ion batteries do not work well in high temperatures, while wet batteries utilize liquid electrolytes (lead acid) to form electricity. 

For an easy and renewable form of power, these whole-home battery systems can connect to solar panels to recharge when needed. If a full set of solar panels is not possible due to a lack of sunlight or budgetary reasons, a portable battery with a solar power charger is another option. 

Home batteries store energy generated by solar panels or the power grid during off-peak hours, allowing occupants to use the stored electricity during power outages or whenever they choose. 

When selecting the battery backup system for your home, keep various factors in mind, such as peak, start, running voltage, and amperage. All electrical appliances should have the capability to run simultaneously, so it is imperative to ensure the battery backup system can handle it. If the battery system is incapable of powering everything concurrently, electrical wiring issues might arise. Price and installation costs are also important aspects to keep in mind when choosing a home battery backup system.

While solar panels produce electricity during the day, they do not generate power at night or during cloudy weather, which can obstruct sunlight. This is where battery backup systems come into play: they can be used anytime, allowing the homeowner to be more electrically independent. The utility grid can also charge battery backup systems if solar panels are unavailable or not installed with the home.

Surge requirements of specific devices are important to keep in mind, especially when starting strong motors like sump pumps. Pool filters, air conditioning units, and other appliances with heavy electrical loads might not be feasible with a battery backup system. 

If a continuous stream of backup battery power is not necessary for your home, consider smaller units that are generally used in emergencies. 

There are many brands and types of battery backup systems. Ensure the one you choose meets all your needs, including budget, power capacity, and more. 

Need help deciding which home battery backup system is best for you? Or do you need to schedule an installation? Call the pros at State Electric Company today!

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 of 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.

Debt Service Coverage Ratio Mortgages

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Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) mortgages are intended to help real estate investors and property owners finance their properties with flexibility and control. Traditional mortgages focus mainly on the borrower’s credit score and income, while DSCR mortgages consider the property’s cash flow to determine the borrower’s repayment ability.

Based on the property’s actual income and expenses, borrowers can obtain financing for the property. This enables those with lower credit scores or irregular revenue to qualify for a loan if the property generates enough cash flow to make the payments. 

The DSCR is the ratio between an investment’s net operating income and total debt service. It is calculated in real estate to determine whether a property has adequate cash flow to cover the mortgage payments. The higher the DSCR, the better the ratio. Anything over 1.25 is considered a good DSCR. 

DSCR loans do not have the same requirements as conventional mortgages, but there are still guidelines investors must meet to qualify for a loan. Though government entities do not back these mortgages and there is no standard, most mortgage companies require the following:

  • DSCR should be between 1 and 1.5 to qualify. 
  • Credit score should be at least 620.
  • Down payment is usually 20%.
  • Cash reserves need to cover at least six months of payments.
  • Maximum DSCR loans are typically $5 million.
  • Prepayment penalties often apply. 
  • Property eligibility varies between companies but is typically one to five units.

Some advantages of DSCR loans include the following: 

  • Eligibility requirements are different.
  • No loan limit.
  • Reduced down payments.
  • Loan amounts up to $5 million.
  • Unlimited cash-out.
  • Swift closing.
  • No employment verification. 

DSCR loans allow borrowers to qualify for home loans without using their tax returns. Real estate investors, or borrowers, can avoid high rates, elevated private loans, long approval processes, and strict lending standards with DSCR loans. 

Stop searching for a DSCR loan. Contact the experts at EB Mortgage today to learn how we can help.

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

U.S. Factory Production Soars

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Throughout the United States, construction spending by manufacturers more than doubled through 2022, according to the Census Bureau. Billions of dollars in subsidies handed out by the government have spiked the EV (electric vehicle), semiconductor, and solar panel industries. 

Not only did production numbers increase, but factories themselves swelled. Compared to $90 billion in June 2022, the annual rate soared to almost $190 billion by April 2023. Roughly 13 percent of non-governmental construction consisted of manufacturing. 

According to the World Bank, China accounts for approximately 30 percent of global manufacturing value, almost double the United States. Approximately 800,000 jobs have been added to the United States manufacturing industry to compete with overseas countries such as China. Amid rising costs and political tensions, a few Chinese companies have pushed their manufacturing to India, Thailand, and Vietnam in response to the 2018 trade war with China. 

Since 2021, the United States has employed about 13 million workers and added around 800,000 manufacturing jobs. The manufacturing skills gap highlights the market’s struggle to find qualified workers and could result in 2.1 million unfilled jobs by 2030.

In the past year, 96 percent of American companies are evaluating reshoring operations or outright shifting production to the United States. This percentage was a spike from 2021, when a mere 78 percent of businesses were looking to reshore or bring operations home. 

The Inflation Reduction Act was instated in August 2022 with the hopes of creating new jobs in manufacturing, construction, and renewable energy fields. It is estimated that up to 1.5 million jobs will be created by 2030. 

Another factor of the manufacturing boom is the CHIPS and Science Act, which provided $280 billion in funding to increase semiconductor manufacturing starting in July 2022. 

While factory manufacturing increased, office, healthcare, and educational construction plummeted. Residential construction has also waned after a housing market cooldown. 

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J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance.  

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

J & P Electrical Company

Inspirational Kitchen Remodel Designs

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Remodeling your kitchen may seem overwhelming, and the options for you to choose from may add to this daunting sense. Before you get started, keep in mind the primary functions of your kitchen: to cook, to eat and drink, to store food and supplies, and fellowship. Determine what you must have (storage, a double sink, etc.) and what you want (a work desk, a super-sized island for making noodles.) A great remodel job incorporates functionality with an appealing design that feeds the aesthetic taste of most individuals.

Pay attention to how things will blend together, from the lighting to the flooring, and showcase certain select details that will unearth your style. Read on to learn some tips for making your kitchen remodel a success:

Function
How will your kitchen function? Will it be more of a culinary area with a few bar stools, or will there be more of a seating area? If a dining room is also a part of your floor plan, ensure your layout between both spaces is complementary rather than incongruent. 

Storage
Added storage is a must in kitchen design. Extra plates and small appliances can be hidden under drawers and cabinets, and pantry items can be stored behind doors. Large drawers can be placed at a lower level to help with access, and pull-out drawers are great for heavy or bulkier items. 

Cabinets
From transparent glass-front to opaque solid wood, cabinets are a crucial part of kitchen design. If you have some fine china to display or, rather, grubby little handprints you want to be less-noticeable, consider all the pros and cons when choosing.  

Lighting
The latest lighting trend includes a mix of styles such as pendants, chandeliers, or recessed lights. All of these options – and more – provide different settings based on mood and functionality. Consider under-cabinet lighting for more accessibility. 

Hardware
Brass, silver, chrome, brushed stainless, etc., are all common finishes in a kitchen design. Matte black can be striking and bold, while warm-toned metals such as gold can be inviting. Ensure your hardware matches the faucets so everything is consistent. 

Countertops
While white marble is difficult to maintain, stainless steel can bow or scratch. Quartz is durable, and granite can withstand high heat. Natural stone can contrast with quartz, as well. The options are endless, but with so many selections come different advantages and disadvantages. Be aware of what each countertop can withstand before making a final decision. 

Flooring
The latest trend is to use the same flooring as the surrounding living area to create a more open feel. Carpeting, however, is not sought after in kitchens, so be mindful of how your new floor will connect with the surrounding area. 

Thinking of remodeling your kitchen? Look no farther; JFC Remodeling specializes in home renovations of all types!

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

IT Health Directly Linked to Long-Term Business Success

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Technological challenges can be hefty in terms of cost and business impact. Information Technology (IT) concerns can affect security, continuity, and overall productivity despite the overall company size. Businesses must consider IT an essential aspect of their overall health.

Especially in today’s age, where the United States government is warning businesses to prepare themselves against hackers amid spyware, ransomware, viruses, etc., it is crucial to ensure companies have strong IT resources for use. IT challenges can impact business success and should be considered an indispensable part of their sustainability. 

Downtime
Network downtime costs American businesses roughly $26.5 billion in lost revenue, with small- to medium-sized companies losing an average of $42,000 per hour. Some studies estimate that lost revenue was closer to $5,600 per minute. The average business downtime is roughly 87 hours a year in total. 

Equipment
Aging equipment and unpatched devices are especially susceptible to crashes, cyberattacks, and much more. Hackers focus on finding value (financial information) rather than targeting specific corporations.  

Education
Teaching employees about cybersecurity and their role in establishing a safe, secure IT environment is crucial for success. If employees are serious about private information and securely use technology, the chances of breaches are drastically minimized. 

Proactivity
Ideally, rather than being proactive, businesses should focus on continuity planning, which ensures critical business functions are prepared to recover from potential down time. Roughly 40- to 60 percent of businesses that were unprepared for disasters never reopen. 

Solutions
To form a solid IT plan, focus on resources available. If your team is unable to handle the load in-house, outsource the networking, anti-virus, troubleshooting, password management, server setup, backups, etc., with a reliable vendor such as Creative Programs and Systems!

Creative Programs and Systems (CPS) provides IT services for small and large businesses in all industries. We specialize in boosting productivity, streamlining business practices, and much more. Contact us today to set up a consultation with our IT specialists. 

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

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

Creative Programs and Systems

Preventing Forest Fires

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Across America, roughly nine out of 10 wildfires are caused by humans, wreaking havoc on properties and natural resources, and threatening lives. These preventable disasters are unplanned, accidental fires that start in forests or vegetative areas. Also known as wildfires, bushfires, forest fires, grass fires, and wetland fires, they all refer to the occurrence of uncontrolled fire that spreads and destroys everything in its path. 

Officials in many areas throughout North America now consider forest fires to be regular incidents. However, they don’t have to be. Since most forest fires are preventable, it is crucial for outdoor folks to understand their responsibilities, roles, and how to prevent fires. 

Fires start with a combination of three things: fuel, heat, and oxygen. Without all three of these components, a fire cannot ignite. Most forest fires start almost effortlessly since forests consist of dried, decaying wood, leaves, and other natural oxygenic combustibles. Humans unintentionally ignite forest fires through campfires, cigarettes, and other fuel sources. Combustibles like wood or leaves heat up from the sun or other heat sources. 

Fires started from lightning account for about 2.1 million acres burned, according to a 10-year average of United States forest fires. In contrast, human-started fires were responsible for burning 1.9 million acres. According to researchers, there are roughly ten times more human-caused forest fires than lightning-caused ones. The numbers of the 10-year average show 88 percent of United States forest fires are human-caused (accidental), and the remaining 12 percent are attributed to lightning strikes. 

To prevent forest fires, keep the following in mind: 

  • Never leave a fire unattended
  • Check weather and drought conditions 
  • Be cautious with heat and fire
  • Consider wind patterns
  • Carry/pack a fire extinguisher
  • Watch a fire extinguish before leaving by dousing it with water until it’s cold
  • Choose battery options over a fire
  • Consider safer alternatives to fireworks
  • Be a responsible smoker or, better yet, quit
  • Clean the burn area
  • Build your campfire in an open location, far from flammables
  • Call 911 if the fire has gotten even slightly out of hand

Since humans are the leading cause of fires, they can also pave the way for prevention. It is imperative that we all respect Mother Nature and be respectful of our actions. 

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 need it later. 

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

Wolf Survival Gear

Implementing Promotional Products for Business

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Glance around and notice how many promotional products are within eyesight. Chances are, there are probably a few. Quite common in today’s society, promotional products offer a way for businesses to gain valuable impressions at a small cost. 

Thanks to Jasper Meeks, promotional products first came to the United States in the late 1800s. A newspaperman who wanted to keep his presses running in lulls, he began printing burlap bags with messages. Soon after, a local shoe store handed out printed bags to promote its company. As the industry grew, sales were $124 million by 1947. 

As businesses discovered how to implement promotional items, they realized that this marketing method gave them a great return on investment. Today, the promotional products industry has multiplied exponentially, with a whopping $23 billion in annual sales recorded, according to Promotional Products Association International (PPAI).

Generally, promotional products consist of branded, customized items used by customers and other parties. Apparel, office products, kitchen tools, gadgets, water bottles, etc., are typical promotional items companies use to promote their business. Products range in varying sizes, shapes, and weights. For example, t-shirts from live events, swag bags, notebooks, hats, phone chargers, pens, etc., can all be used as promotional material.  

These seemingly unremarkable items create lasting impressions since they allow potential customers to familiarize themselves with the company’s brand. Moreover, promotional products are almost always an essential object that most people would use anyway. 

Promotional products come from suppliers and distributors. Suppliers manufacture and customize promotional products centered on the customer base. Distributors advertise and promote the products focused on customer needs. 

Once a company decides to purchase promotional products, they find a distributor and examine the options. After choosing what they are looking for, companies place an order with the distributor, which sends the order to the supplier. The supplier then creates the product(s), and the distributor sends the finished product to the customer. 

Promotional products can increase your brand awareness, create buying incentives and sales, generate new referrals, raise customer appreciation, heighten corporate culture and help employee retention, improve investor relations, and more. As a highly effective marketing tool, promotional products can help a company achieve numerous goals.

Looking to create Promotional Products specific to your company? Check out our items here!

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

Prostate Cancer Treatment Vastly Improved

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Cutting-edge technology and nuclear medicine are massively improving prostate cancer treatments, especially over the past two decades. Before 2000, prostate cancer was detected through manual palpation, a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test, and an ultrasound. Notably, prostate cancer is not visible in ultrasounds, so urologists would have to sample random prostate areas to discover the cancer. 

In the early 2000s, prostate MRI emerged and progressed through the 2010s. This technology allowed radiologists to discover whether prostate tumors were present. 

Brett Mollard, MD, a diagnostic radiologist in Michigan, said, “They could now see and target the tumors rather than randomly sampling the prostate and hoping to biopsy the tumor. We’re actively witnessing a second revolution thanks to new imaging agents, known as radiotracers or radiopharmaceuticals, for PET.”

In 2012, Positron Emission Technology (PET) radiotracers received approval, with better ones emerging in 2016. In 2021, Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen (PSMA) was introduced, which helped to diagnose with lightning speed compared to previous methods. 

Andres Correa, MD, assistant professor at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia, said, “While MRI has significantly reduced the rate of negative biopsies and the diagnosis of low-risk prostate cancer, the imaging modality remains limited. Up to 50 percent of patients with prostate imaging-reporting and data system (PI-RADS) 4 and 25 percent of patients with PI-RADS 5 will have benign findings on targeted biopsy. I believe that the incorporation of PSMA agents into MRI screening will allow us to better define patients who need a prostate biopsy and further reduce the number of unnecessary prostate biopsies.” 

Avenda Health’s new AI-backed prostate cancer technology, cleared by the FDA, is emerging in Los Angeles with promising results. Using machine learning, the Unfold AI platform gives physicians the most accurate picture of prostate cancer to date. 

Wayne Brisbane, MD, assistant professor of urology at UCLA Health, said, “With a wide breadth of ablative options available, Unfold AI represents the first technology to improve tumor localization and patient selection. I am hopeful that Unfold AI will be intraprostatic staging what prostate-specific membrane antigen PET/CT has been for extraprostatic staging. Additionally, there are potential applications for surgery, radiation therapy, and patient decision-making.”

Mollard said, “Prostate cancer treatment is already at a great place, especially for local and regional disease, where five-year survival rates are already over 98 percent. Over the next 10 years, I think the focus will remain on earlier and more accurate diagnosis/detection and discovering new drugs to treat metastatic prostate cancer.”  

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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