Livingston Reporting - page 224

Planning For Your Future Through Estate Planning Installment 1

There are so many excuses that people can come up with to avoid planning for their future.  None of us ever feel that we are going to die anytime soon so we put off planning for it. We pretend we are too busy to avoid thinking about a future that doesn’t include us in it.  However, the truth of our death is inevitable.  We will all eventually pass away. The last thing that any of us want to do is leave a mess for our families in the wake of our untimely passing.  This holiday season the number one gift you can give to your family is to create an estate plan to ensure that all of the business matters surrounding your death are taken care of and your family can focus on what really matters, mourning your death.

Know you aren’t alone in your procrastination.  As many as two thirds of Americans don’t have any type of will in place and fewer than one half of us with a will have an estate planning documents in place.  Planning for your final days is not something anyone wants to do let alone put in writing long before we hope that time is upon us however it will allow the transition to be that much easier on your family.

First and most importantly, meet with an attorney that specializes in estate planning.  This is an important piece of the puzzle.  They will help you begin the process of getting your affairs in order by helping to create a will.  Having a will in place allows you to decide how you split up your estate, who will raise your children and so forth.  Without a will in place the state is left in charge of deciding upon these very important and personal affairs.

Most often estate attorneys will recommend getting some type of life insurance coverage to assist in providing financial support for your family when you are no longer able to.  To be safe it is important that the coverage you purchase should be enough to pay off outstanding debts and fund future foreseeable goals.

The next item on your plate is to delegate control.  Three main documents are needed to do this: a durable power of attorney, a release of information and an advance directive.  In our next installment detailing estate planning we will go into depth regarding each of these documents and the headaches having them in place will save your family from.

The Law Office of Sean J. Nichols is dedicated to assisting clients throughout legal issues that come with aging including: elder law, estate planning, probate law and more.  Check out the Law Office of Sean J. Nichols at http://www.seanjnichols.com to contact an estate attorney today.

The Numerous Advantages Of Aluminum Fencing

Aluminum fencing can give homeowners the same look as wrought iron and steel at a fraction of the cost and less maintenance.  If you want to keep your space from feeling enclosed while increasing the homes security installing an aluminum fence and gate is a perfect option.  Here are a few tips for homeowners looking for an affordable, maintenance free, easy to install fence for the perimeter of their home or pool.

If you are looking for an ideal option to enclose your backyard to keep pets inside a safe barrier, look no further than aluminum fencing.  With aluminum fencing you not only have choices about the decorative features that will make up your fence but also options within the fence itself.  Puppy pickets for example are when smaller pickets are added in between the regular pickets to prevent smaller animals from fitting between or underneath the fence.  The narrow design for the bottom half of the fence is perfect for keeping animals safe while keeping the traditional look of aluminum fencing at the top.

When choosing the pickets for your aluminum fencing there are two basic options that give you two very different looks to your fencing: covered and exposed.  First, it is important to understand that the pickets are what create your metal fence. Exposed finials on fencing leave a sharp point sticking out of the top of your fence panel.  Whereas covered finials have a straight horizontal bar covering them.  Aluminum fence designs with pointed finials are a more dangerous option and may be good for homeowners looking to add a bit of security against intruders looking to enter the home by climbing the fence.  Be extra careful if choosing an open finials design for your aluminum fence if small children or pets are apt to climb the fence.  Opt for covered finials if you think that the open pickets will pose a hazard within your yard.

Consider adding accessories to your aluminum fence to increase the aesthetic value it offers to your landscape. Some homeowners choose more ornamental fencing such as designs that include butterfly or circular scrolls to enhance the appeal of their fence while others choose to add a gate or decorative arched entryway.  Aluminum gates come in numerous styles to match or compliment any style of aluminum fencing that homeowners choose. Even the smallest of details can transform the aluminum fence that you choose.  With aluminum fencing not only are you getting the most attractive option in fencing you are choosing a fence with minimal maintenance requirements that is durable and built to withstand a variety of climate conditions.

iFenceUSA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

Pros and Cons of Different Fencing Materials

There are a variety of materials available when choosing a fence.  Each type of fence comes with its own set of pros and cons associated with it.  In this article we will look at a few of the most popular options in residential fencing, aluminum and wood, along with the benefits and drawbacks each offers to homeowners.

Aluminum Fencing

Aluminum fencing is one of the most reasonably priced, adaptable and long lasting materials available. It offers all of these benefits while being one of the most easily maintained materials available in fencing.  This material is also easy to install on your own but can also affordably be installed by a team of professional fence installers.  Aluminum is a highly adaptable material in which the panels are easily designed for a variety of landscapes including ones with a high degree of sloping.  Aluminum fencing comes in a variety of ornamental styles and numerous colors to choose from.  The options in aluminum fencing consist of a variety of additions such as scrolls, butterflies, decorative finials and puppy pickets.

The only real downfall of aluminum fencing is that it costs more upfront than most other materials do. In the long run however it will end up costing homeowners less because aluminum fencing does not require near the amount of maintenance as seen in other fencing materials.  Aluminum is highly durable and has been compared to steel fencing for many years.  It will not work as privacy fencing so if this is your goal another material is going to be better for you.

Wood Fencing

Wooden fence has been a popular choice amongst homeowners for many years.  Not only is it an attractive option in fencing it is also fairly inexpensive and versatile.  There are many options in designs and style choices.  Wood fences are a great option for homeowners looking for privacy and can be painted and stained to compliment any home’s exterior.

The major drawback to wood fencing comes with the degree of maintenance it takes to keep it looking new.  Not only is it labor intensive it is expensive as well.  Harsh weather changes have a way of wearing wooden fencing away.  Harsh climates give way for rot and warping.  Extra moisture in the wood can lead to a high degree of damage.  Another disadvantage of wood fencing is how much it is enjoyed by small pests such as ants and termites.  One infestation can lead to mass amounts of destruction for your homes wooden fence.

iFenceUSA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

Choosing Between Chain Link and Aluminum Fencing

There are many options in fencing.  Two of the most popular options homeowners choose between are aluminum fencing and chain link fencing.  Let’s face the facts here though; one option is clearly more aesthetic then the other.  Chain link fencing is clearly not the more attractive of the two options although it is the most cost effective however both options are practically maintenance free.  Between the two there are a few other differences between chain link fencing and aluminum fencing to consider.

One consideration between the two, chain link and aluminum fencing, is the value that they bring to the property.  Any type of fencing is an investment in your home.   Choosing a style of fencing that best meets your needs along with the style of your home can work to increase the value of your home and therefore offer an increase in equity upon the sale of the home.  This is something homeowners must consider when choosing between fencing materials.

Chain link fencing offers the most cost effective solution for the short term but offers a low aesthetic appeal.  While aluminum fencing is attractive and offers a high visual appeal but tends to be a bit more costly then chain link.  In the long term chain link fencing may end up costing homeowners more with the low visual appeal, maintenance and ability to rust. All of which can end up lowering your overall property value.  Also, many homeowner associations and neighborhoods have restrictions against chain link fences.  Aluminum on the other hand offers numerous decorative styles and colors to choose from.  It is also incredibly sturdy and resistant to changes in climate. Aluminum fencing is an investment in your home that is meant for long haul.

One more reason aluminum fencing outweighs chain link for the best option in fencing is the limitless options in ornamental design and color.  There are also a lot of extra options to help homeowners customize aluminum fences where as chain link options are limited.  If you are looking for an option in fencing that stands out, aluminum is where it is at.  Choose from decorative finials, ornamental scrolls, or add accessorial caps to nearly all aluminum fences none of which is available in chain link fencing.

Fence maintenance is another consideration when considering between aluminum fencing and chain link.  Chain link can and will rust over time unless it is coated in a vinyl protective coat.  Aluminum fencing on the other hand is basically virtually maintenance free and durable.  It comes with a powder-coated finish that makes the fence panels do not require repainting or extra protection against changing climates.

Learn more about aluminum fencing online from numerous online wholesalers of aluminum fencing panels.

iFenceUSA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

The Importance of Labeling In The Consumer Decision Making Process

Product labeling can be the difference in a consumer’s decision making process.  This is what makes it so important that the manufacturer choose the right style and material for your products label along with a spot on design to represent it.  The ideas below will give you some insight into a successful label design.

Spend Money To Make Money

It is crucial that manufacturers invest in their brands.  A quality label designer is worth their weight in gold.  The product label is the first thing consumers see.  It is what differentiates your product from the competition when sitting side by side on the shelf.    An investment in a solid label design has long lasting affects to your marketing plan.  A brands image begins with its label.

Plan In Conjunction With the Designer

Designers that specialize in creating custom labels often work on an hourly basis therefore manufacturers can save time and money by being prepared.  Create a spreadsheet with categories laid out on what is necessary for the label to contain, what would be nice but isn’t totally necessary and the items that are not important at all.  Make sure to include the following:

  • Brand and product name
  • The weight
  • The ABV (alcohol by volume)
  • Government warnings
  • Logo
  • Nutrition information
  • UPC code

Consider The Overall Label Idea

Think about what you want out of your label.  What style should your label be?  Should you use intense, bright colors in your label?  Should the design be contemporary or traditional?  Will the graphics be minimal or elaborate and full of detail?  Keep the lines of communication open with your label designer; speak with them regarding the overall concept you desire out of your label.  Create an idea board to present to the designer of your product label.  Make sure it includes colors, graphics, font styles and more that relate to the vision that is in mind for your product label.

Choose A Label Style and Material

Think about the options that you have in labeling.   Shrink sleeves to flexible packaging the option you choose will represent your product.  What does the label need to accomplish.  If you are looking for a combination of packaging and labeling in one a flexible pouch is your best options.  If you are looking for a label option that also provides tamper resistance go for shrink sleeve labeling.  If your product is simple and you want your label to reflect that try a cut and stack label.

Take time to review all rough drafts given to you be the designer.  Use these to critic and offer direction to the designer until the desired result is achieved.  Once this is accomplished take the sample design and have it printed on the material you have chosen.  Apply this to the product packaging and physically see what the end result will be.  If you are fully satisfied give the go ahead to the label printing company.  If changes are desired it is crucial to make adjustments now before giving the go-ahead.  This will ensure you are completely satisfied with the results of your dedication to the design of your product label.

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your product label design, printing and packaging needs.

Labeling Plays an Important Role in Marketing

Your products label and package design plays a number of rolls in product marketing.  Together the elements create a product story and will get consumers to take notice.  The industry has taken the idea of labeling and packaging and combined the two elements thus creating flexible packaging.   Customized flexible packaging helps increase company growth by increasing brand exposure and product sales.

Flexible packaging consists of a pouch or packet style container that is made from a variety of materials to create and all inclusive, resilient package and label in one.  Depending on the manufacturers goals flexible packets can be beneficial to both sales and marketing tactics.  Flexible pouches are frequently used to replace bottles, create a single use variation or even in sample distribution.

Flexible packets are one of the newest additions available to the packaging and labeling community.  They are one of the most technical products that packaging and labeling companies offer to manufacturers.  The label graphics and text are printed directly onto the pouch material.  Flexible packaging materials vary from paper to thick film.  Flexible paper packaging is ideal for solids and powders whereas film packets are better for liquids, gels, and lotions.  Both paper and film will create a reliable seal that protects the packaging contents, reduces spoilage and protects against product tampering.

Flexible packaging is popular within several different product markets including health and beauty, beverages, condiments and more.  One of the main reasons why manufacturers choose flexible packets over other options in packaging and labeling is ease of use and consumer convenience.  Not only can flexible packets are used to package large quantities they are ideal for packaging single-servings for on the go consumers.

Flexible pouches can be used for a number of products in a wide range of industries.  The benefits of this style of packaging and labeling go well beyond the design and function.  They are ideal for the sales and marketing of the products they hold.  Some of the valuable ways in which flexible packaging can be used to benefit brand and product awareness include:

  • Flexible packets can be fastened directly onto other products within the companies brand for sampling. This type of marketing is often used in magazine advertisements, brochures and direct mailings.
  • Flexible packaging is also a perfect way for marketers to distribute samples within store locations, promotional events and trade shows.
  • They are a great option for the distribution of travel sized products.
  • Another genius way marketers use flexible product packaging is to acquire consumer information. Consumers that request a free sample often fill out a consumer card that gives their information to manufactures.

No matter how you incorporate flexible packages in your lineup there are a number of ways it can be done to benefit your business.

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your product label design, printing and packaging needs.

Differentiate Your Product With Shrink Sleeve Labels

As manufacturers seek to differentiate their products from their competitors they often look into custom labeling options.  A popular option that allows products to distinguish themselves is by using shrink sleeve labels.  Shrink sleeves are a relatively new option within the labeling industry.  Their popularity stems from several different reasons including durability, security, and its full body design.

Shrink sleeves tend to be a bit more costly than other labeling options however the increase in market share often offsets the additional expense.  Many times the packaging expense decreases when using shrink sleeve wraps because a more generic container can be used.  The shrink sleeve encases the entire container.  Using a basic, less expensive container can help to offset the increase in expenses incurred with shrink sleeves.

There are many reasons that manufactures should choose to label with shrink sleeves over other options in labeling.  Studies done about consumer demand have shown an increase in sales of up to twenty percent when using shrink sleeve labels.  Some of the reasons why include:

  • Shrink sleeves can be applied to a variety of packaging containers such as plastic, glass and metal.
  • The material that shrink sleeves are made from is highly resistant to penetration and damage.
  • Even the most uniquely shaped packaging from bottles to containers is flawlessly emphasized.
  • Product safety is achieved through the tamper evident protection seal that shrink sleeve labeling incorporates in its design.
  • Shrink sleeves offer a larger visual area, three hundred and sixty degrees, that allows designers to display more information, art and consumer information.
  • The printing is done on the inside of the shrink sleeve. The design does not easily smear, blur or distort.
  • They offer the ability to use numerous marketing and promotional methods including multi-packs, promotional band labeling, on-pack sample promotions, and cross-merchandising.

It is interesting to see the number of industries that can benefit from using shrink sleeve labels.  From the food and beverage industry to pharmaceuticals and household cleansers, shrink sleeves offer benefits that other labeling options cannot.

  • Food and Beverage: The tamper proof nature of shrink sleeves seals the product and prevents the product from being accidentally opened.
  • Pharmaceutical: Product safety is of the utmost important in the pharmaceutical industry. The packages structural design along with the added security that is provided by shrink sleeve labeling the chance of the product being opened unintentionally is extremely limited.
  • Household Cleaners: Shrink sleeves are one labeling material that can withstand moisture, friction and varying degrees of temperature.

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your product label design, printing and packaging needs.

Refurbished Medical Equipment Is A Solid Choice For Your Budget

Medical facilities seeking to purchase top brand name equipment should look to suppliers selling and servicing refurbished medical supplies.  Choosing new or refurbished medical equipment for your facility is n undertaking that should be overseen by an expert task force.  Finding a company to supply and service your medical equipment is quite a task.  Refurbished equipment can be as reliable as brand new medical equipment at a fraction of the cost of the original, name brand piece.

When looking into buying new or refurbished equipment there are a few questions that medical facilities should ask medical equipment suppliers when considering a purchase.  The first thing to discuss is the price difference between new and refurbished medical equipment.  It is also crucial to discuss exactly what the facility needs to avoid purchasing equipment that has a number of features that are not needed.   Speak to referrals to make sure that you are purchasing from a reputable company.  Discuss with the supplier the special needs of purchasing refurbished equipment.

There are sometimes when purchasing refurbished equipment is not necessarily that much of a cost savings to your facility.  Items that are stainless steel, step stools and such just don’t save that much over new.  Purchasing these items new will allow for the same or better life span without forgoing cosmetic or operational pitfalls.  Larger items like linear accelerators, tables to perform operations, monitors and such can offer a significant savings when comparing between the cost of new and refurbished medical equipment and supplies.  Some refurbished medical suppliers can save facilities upwards of fifty percent of buying new.

When buying medical equipment that is new facilities often end up paying for features that are not needed.  Some that is completely useless. What is more important when purchasing medical equipment is that it comes equipped with the features you will need and use.  A reputable supplier of refurbished medical equipment and supplies should have distinct knowledge of what your company is in need of and what fits your medical centers needs.

A reputable company that sells refurbished medical equipment will never try to oversell you.  Well established refurbished medical suppliers are around for reasons other than ripping off medical facilities.  Companies that you will want to work with don’t try to oversell you because they have abundance of a certain unit or because of an increased profit margin. They will sell you equipment based on your facilities needs and desires.

Acceletronics delivers the best equipment performance and service reliability from Linear Accelerators and CT Scanners across all major brands and models.  Our qualified oncology equipment specialists provide a quality customer experience across the USA with timely field maintenance.  We sell, repair, refurbish, move and finance oncology medical systems check out more at http://www.acceletronics.com.

Choosing A Reliable Company To Purchase New and Refurbished Medical Equipment From

Medical facilities that are looking to buy new or refurbished medical equipment are presented with a task that seems quite overwhelming.  To find quality equipment and supplies for your medical practice or hospital it is important to find a reliable company to work with.  A company that will supply new and refurbished equipment while linking with a superior maintenance and repair support center is something all medical facilities look for.

Consider the following questions prior to selecting a company to work with in purchasing new and refurbished medical equipment and supplies.

  • When purchasing equipment and supplies from your company what is the price difference between buying new and refurbished medical equipment?
  • Are there features on the equipment that are not needed that we are paying additional for?
  • How long has your company been doing business with medical facilities? Do you have recent referrals that we can speak with that have bought new and refurbished medical equipment?  What do you offer to your clients that make you a more reputable supplier than other companies in the industry?
  • What is the process that is followed to refurbish medical equipment?

At times it will be a more realistic to buy new medical equipment over refurbished.  Sometimes the price difference will not be enough of a difference to merit purchasing refurbished equipment over new.  Some products like step stools, bed pans and stainless steel supplies don’t save enough in the long run for it to be necessary to consider buying refurbished.  Purchasing these items new will guarantee the cosmetic and operational functions without affecting longevity.

Other times, when purchasing larger pieces of equipment such as operating tables, stretchers, patient monitors and such the savings may be quite significant in purchasing refurbished over new.  The savings have been known to be upwards of fifty percent.  When looking at the overall expense of larger medical equipment like linear accelerators and ct scanners the savings can be quite substantial.

Be wary of purchasing refurbished equipment is paying for features that your facility does not need.  If your facility has a policy against treating patients with a body weight over five hundred pounds then a surgical table rated for a thousand pounds would be useless.  A quality supplier will understand what you need and will not try to sell you a product that does not fit that need.  Suppliers of medical equipment, new and refurbished, are in the business to build relationships not to rip clients off by selling them equipment with features that are unneeded.

Acceletronics delivers the best equipment performance and service reliability from Linear Accelerators and CT Scanners across all major brands and models.  Our qualified oncology equipment specialists provide a quality customer experience across the USA with timely field maintenance.  We sell, repair, refurbish, move and finance oncology medical systems check out more at http://www.acceletronics.com.

You Don’t Have To Compromise When Choosing Medical Equipment

In order to run a competent medical facility such as a hospital, diagnostic health center or pharmacy you must not only have a solid team of professionals but also top notch medical equipment.  Without the right equipment and staff in position to operate them it is likely that your facility will be bypassed by patients looking for top quality care.

When medical facilities are looking to choose equipment they should never compromise.   A professional team should be established to check into the right parameters and purchase the top equipment and devices that can be purchased within their budget.  Often times a way that this can be done without breaking the facilities budget is with the purchase of refurbished medical equipment.  The choices available within the market should be examined thoroughly.

The difference between life and death can come down to the equipment that a facility chooses to purchase.  Purchasing a quality piece of equipment is something that facilities should never ignore.  The best product is one that often is backed by a top brand name.  Often times the price tag which comes with these top brand name products will break the facilities budget for medical equipment.  What is important is that facilities seek to get the best quality equipment at the best price even if it means purchasing refurbished medical equipment.

It is important to know the supplier in which you are purchasing medical equipment from.  Without a doubt, you should know that you are getting the best equipment at the best price.  Ask the supplier for referrals of clients that are currently using them to supply their equipment.  If you are interested in doing business with the supplier it is important to ensure that they take care of their existing customer base while building upon their business.  The more positive referrals you are given the more likely you are to be convinced that you are making the right decision when it comes to who will supply your medical equipment now and in the future.

The cost of medical equipment will always be a factor in the decision making process.  Suppliers should offer competitive pricing for the quality of equipment being purchased.  The value if your dollar should be equivalent to the value of the equipment you are receiving.  Never compromise on the quality of the medical equipment you purchase, it is crucial in the treatment of your patients and the quality of their care.

Another important factor to consider is the care you will receive after the sale.  The after sales support and service received is of the utmost importance when choosing the right supplier to purchase your medical equipment from.  Complex medical equipment must be serviced properly to increase its longevity.  It is crucial that when choosing a supplier to purchase medical equipment that your medical facility take the above into consideration to ensure the best possible results for your facility.

Acceletronics delivers the best equipment performance and service reliability from Linear Accelerators and CT Scanners across all major brands and models.  Our qualified oncology equipment specialists provide a quality customer experience across the USA with timely field maintenance.  We sell, repair, refurbish, move and finance oncology medical systems check out more at http://www.acceletronics.com.