Livingston Reporting - page 26

Water Softener Basics

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A water softener is an appliance specifically made for ridding calcium and magnesium from water. All water is not the same, and it’s dubbed as “hard” when it has high amounts of magnesium and calcium.  Conversely, “soft” water does not have these minerals, or they are barely detectable.

Lakes and streams naturally have soft water. Underground water is usually hard in regions with high amounts of chalk, gypsum, and limestone. Water softeners remove these mineral components absorbed from the earth, making your water soft. 

Some water softeners work through either an ion exchange or salt-free devices. An ion exchange is the most common type of water softener, using sodium to replace calcium and magnesium metal ions. A large tank is filled with salt pellets, and as the water fills the tank, the sodium ions react with the calcium and magnesium, making it soft.

Salt-free devices use a mechanical filter to eliminate calcium but do not work with magnesium. These devices let water pass through a semipermeable membrane which rids it of roughly 98% of contaminants.  

Some benefits of water softeners include:

– Removing orange or yellow stains on sinks, shower walls, toilets, etc.

– Improving the mineral balance of the water

– Purifying toxins

– Reducing appliance repairs and unnecessary replacements

– Making general cleaning easier  

– Transforming unpotable water into potable water

– Eliminating scale build-up

– Minimizing eczema

Overall, water softeners can be a beneficial addition to your home. By purifying your water, you can effortlessly remove minerals that can negatively impact your home, body, and overall health.

Are you looking for a water purifier or need assistance choosing the best option? Contact the water conditioning experts at Reynolds Water today.

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

Novel Non-Surgical Carpal Tunnel Treatment

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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a painful condition that occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed in the wrist’s carpal tunnel, becoming inflamed. Pain, tingling, numbness in the hand, and/or first two fingers can occur as a result of CTS, which is the most common entrapment neuropathy affecting up to five percent of people in the United States.

CTS is generally more common in women than men, affecting them ten times more, and symptoms typically develop between the ages of 40 and 60.

The causes of CTS are unclear, but it can be triggered through:

–                     Strain or damage to the wrist (sprain or fracture) resulting in swelling
–                     Overactive pituitary gland
–                     Underactive thyroid gland
–                     Rheumatoid arthritis
–                     Issues with the wrist joint
–                     Constant use of pulsating hand tools
–                     Pregnancy or menopause (fluid retention)
–                     Cysts or tumors

Mild CTS symptoms can be relieved by using splints, rest, Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), or corticosteroid injections. In some cases, surgery might be necessary to reduce pressure on the median nerve.  

A novel study conducted by scientists from the University College of Medical Sciences and Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital in Delhi, India, found that hydrodissection can provide long-term relief from CTS. Hydrodissection is a technique that separates a nerve from the surrounding tissue by injecting saline or another sterile solution.

Participants with a mean age of 44 years (ranging from 25 to 62 years) were divided into three random groups. Two groups had ultrasound-guided hydrodissection, while the third received a corticosteroid injection. Neither group knew which treatment they received. After four weeks, all three groups showed a reduction in pain symptoms, but the group that received the corticosteroid experienced emerging symptoms after 12 to 24 weeks.

This straightforward and effective treatment is promising for CTS patients as it is simple, inexpensive, and does not require high-end treatment. The study participants reported no adverse effects, unlike corticosteroid injections, which are known to have some adverse side effects.

Do you suffer from CTS and are in need of relief? Contact the experts at MI Hand & Wrist today.

Michigan Hand & Wrist was founded in 2001 with the mission to provide the highest-quality care for patients seeking surgical or non-surgical hand or upper extremity relief. Our goal is to exhaust all non-operative measures before discussing or moving on to surgical interventions. We offer on-site physical therapy from therapists committed to improving your quality of life. Our individualized treatments are modern, progressive, and exceptional. Call us at 248-596-0412 for further questions. 

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

MI Hand & Wrist

Big Home Renovation Trends to Watch in 2023

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With homeownership comes the ability to make it your own. Adding your own personality and following design trends throughout your home can make a huge impact. Remodeling your kitchen, updating your bathroom, installing a fence, updating plumbing or HVAC, etc., can boost your home’s comfort for years to come.

Renovations in the new year are expected to be more mechanical versus cosmetic due to the rising cost of materials and high inflation. When choosing between fixing a broken fence or repairing a burst pipe, homeowners are expected to select the more critical option. 

Here are some forecasted trends on the horizon for 2023:

Home Offices
Following the pandemic, many people continue to work from home. Renovating home offices is expected to continue on trend throughout 2023. For professionals who own businesses, the convenience of being at home outweighs purchasing or renting a commercial space.

Energy Efficiency
As an increasing number of people reduce their carbon footprint, the eco-friendly aspects of a home are expected to rise. The Inflation Reduction Act incentivizes homeowners to craft energy-efficient home updates in 2023 with the Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit. Experts project a monumental shift toward solar energy this year by installing subsidized solar panels. Increasing utility bills have caused many homeowners to seek smart HVAC systems to monitor and track their usage and spending. Adding insulation and installing energy-efficient appliances, low-flush toilets, etc., are expected to be trendy in 2023. 

Outdoor Living
Piggybacking on our first trend of more homeowners spending time at home, many people are seeking to maximize livable space. Decks, patios, gardens, outdoor kitchens, pools, and other outdoor amenities are expected to rise in 2023 as homeowners look for comfortable and functional options to complement their at-home lifestyle.

Multi-Dwelling Residences
Rising interest rates and real estate costs are being shared between new homeowners who want to split their home into multiple residences. Multi-generational living is expected to be a huge trend in 2023, as the economy has shifted and an increasing number of children are going back to live with their parents, or aging parents are opting to move in with their grown offspring. 

Are you thinking of updating your home to include a dedicated home office, improve efficiency, update your kitchen, or more? Contact the home renovation experts at JFC Remodeling today. 

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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

2023 Housing Market Predictions

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The housing market is being eyed with heavy suspicion and uncertainty as rising interest rates combined with an unstable housing market and an increase in median sales prices. With the new year comes new questions pertaining to costs, sales, and more.

Home values in Michigan have risen by roughly 32 percent in the past two years, with the average-priced home valued at $235,649 on Zillow, up 8.1 percent compared to 2022. Local real estate experts predict that Detroit home values will increase another two percent through July 2023 before evening out. 

Agents in the Michigan Association of Realtors say the current environment could be challenging for many buyers as housing availability and inventory are both on the lower side. Typically, there is a six-month supply of homes, but lately, Michigan is seeing about one month’s supply of homes available. 

The market is affecting the mortgage rates, which makes buyers leery, driving down the list price on homes and making multiple offers – more competition – growing obsolete. 

Home values throughout Detroit, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, Flint, Lansing, and Muskegon are expected to rise in 2023 by anywhere from .05 percent to 5.7 percent, with no signs of slowing down.  

The good news is that easing inflation and lowering rate hikes by the Federal Reserve will likely cause mortgage rates to drop below six percent in the spring and summer of 2023. 

The falling rates will improve home affordability for many homebuyers. As the home price growth levels off, inventory constraints will cause the market to see more competition. With homeowners sticking to lower interest rates, determined buyers will try to grab whatever homes are available. 

If you are in the market for a mortgage, contact the professionals at EB Mortgage today.

EB Mortgage is a locally owned mortgage company with experts in new home purchase, refinancing, and commercial loans. Our wholesale rates can’t be beaten. We offer more products, more options, and more solutions. Our “3C” Process is simple: complete our pre-approval request, consider options based on your requirements, and choose the offer that suits your needs best. Call us or e-mail us today!  

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

EB Mortgage

Landmark Lawsuit Could Force Google to Divest Ads

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A lawsuit filed by the United States Justice Department targets Alphabet’s Google and its monopoly in the advertising space. If the case succeeds, rivals of Google Ads, such as Apple, Meta, Microsoft, and Amazon could find an advantage. However, advertisers would have an uncertain future in this scenario.

The Justice Department demanded in the complaint that Google divest its Ad Manager, a suite of tools that allows websites to distribute ads and find customers based on their interests, gender, location, and more.

Apple has been swiftly increasing its emerging advertising sector, endorsing its privacy features, and could be a budding contender if Google Ads loses its stronghold. Since Apple’s data is compiled through phone ownership, its Safari web browser, and the dispersal of applications through its app store, it will have the ability to swiftly diversify its focus into the ad realm.

If the lawsuit filed by the Justice Department succeeds, advertisers and publishers will both experience more leverage with multiple options and an entirely new roster of players. With that comes more competition, as the space will open up to many others.

Google’s advertising competitors are constantly developing new products for publishers (news websites) and advertisers buying those ads. If Google is forced to divest, competitors such as Microsoft’s Xandr will have an edge, as they will continue to work with both sides.

The gains will also come financially for publishers, as they will have more options, inevitably driving down the overall cost in the sector. As more competition emerges, Google Ads will predictably become less effective.

This is not the first time the government has filed lawsuits against dominant companies in an effort to break up monopolies. In 1974, a lawsuit broke up AT&T, which resulted in many advancements and innovations in the telephone industry. In 1998, the Justice Department filed a suit against Microsoft aimed at reining in the company by prohibiting them from extending its dominant operating system to the internet browser. Ironically, the Justice Department and Microsoft settlement paved the way for other internet innovators such as Google.

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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

Vehicle Dealer Bonds Increased

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Since January 23, 2023, the Michigan Uniform Vehicle Dealer Surety Bonds (also known as Michigan auto dealer bonds or Michigan motor vehicle dealer bonds) has increased from $10,000 to $25,000. 

Mandated by Michigan Compiled Laws 257.248, the surety bond requirement has yet to be distributed to all motor vehicle dealers. Any individuals or business entities who sell or deal in five or more motor vehicles within a 12-month period are subject to the code. This ensures the public will receive compensation for any damages if the auto dealer is not in compliance with the dealer licensing law.

Regulated by the Michigan Secretary of State, the Michigan legislature enacted the license to guarantee dealers engage in ethical business practices such as remitting payment for taxes and fees. Specific licenses are required for auto dealers by the State of Michigan, depending on the nature of the business. Dealers will need to acquire a license for each type of business they are active in. 

The different types of Michigan Dealer Licenses are:

  • Class A: New Vehicle Dealer
  • Class B: Used Vehicle Dealer
  • Class C: Used Vehicle Parts Dealer*
  • Class D: Broker
  • Class E: Distressed Vehicle Transporter*
  • Class F: Vehicle Scrap Metal Processor*
  • Class G: Vehicle Salvage Pool*
  • Class H: Foreign Salvage Vehicle Dealer
  • Class R: Automotive Recycler*
  • Class W: Wholesaler*

*It is important to note that classes C, E, F, G, R, and W are exempt from the surety bond requirement. 

The Michigan Department of State requires that existing bonds be increased with a rider amendment document provided at the next renewal. The deadline for filing paperwork to increase the Michigan auto dealer amount is December 31, 2023. Any dealers who do not file the required documents before the deadline will potentially have their licenses canceled.

All existing bonds are subject to the increase at the next renewal term, so dealers who have active bonds already on file with the state of Michigan can expect the bond amount to increase by inflated premiums on their next renewal term. Any newly paid renewal invoices should be filed with the state of Michigan.

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At Construction Bonding Specialists, we work with new and experienced contractors to find the most satisfactory bond solutions. As a distinct surety-bond-only agency with decades of bonding experience, we work to discover surety solutions for all types of cases ranging from ordinary to challenging. Call us at 248-349-6227 to learn more.

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

Construction Bonding Specialists

Achieving Your Backyard Vision

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The pool industry is forever evolving, so why isn’t your dated pool? Many homeowners are adding or removing pools, but a large number of pool owners simply want a pool “facelift.” Often, homeowners who remove pools do not wish to remove them completely; rather, they need to do a remodel for one reason or another.

A growing number of pools are removed for a remodel and added again with a new tile design, layout, shape, etc. Along with the pool renovation usually comes a backyard redesign. If a pool is shining from a fresh, new look, the rest of the backyard shouldn’t be dull and dreary. 

If you are thinking about adding a gas fire pit next to your pool, a state-of-the-art BBQ station, TV, etc., the ideal time to do that is while your pool is being redesigned. 

Creating an inviting and modern space is possible with the right vision. Pools are timeless, and while most tile can stand up to the test of time, it isn’t always aesthetically pleasing when it comes to modern changes and updates throughout the backyard/home. 

Many swimming pools built in the 1960s and ‘70s were based on templates. In the 1980s, custom pool design became more popular. What was once constricted by templates was now open to possibilities, and freedom of expression really blossomed during this time. 

Now, many older pools that are cracking or leaking need repair, and the more recent pools might be fine physically but are not aesthetically pleasing as they once used to be. 

Re-plastering, tiling, coping, or caulking pools can create an astounding result, but why stop there? Examine your backyard and hire a landscape designer to help make your vision real. Find like-minded professionals with the aptitude for building precisely what you are looking for.

If you are looking for a pool redesign, look no further than Pound Pool Plastering. We have the professional wherewithal to transform your dreary pool into a sparkling vessel. 

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 e-mail us for a free estimate. 

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

Pound Pool Plastering

Dry Weather, Dry Eyes

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Diagnosing Dry Eyes

Dry eyes can plague nearly every person at some point in their lives. Dry, dehydrated eyes can be even more apparent in the winter months when there is less humidity. Dry eyes can cause discomfort, a sensation of having something in your eyes, blurred vision, eye fatigue, sensitivity to light, trouble in wearing contact lenses, difficulty with nighttime driving, and conversely, can make your eyes watery.

There are various tests used to determine the cause of dry eyes, including:

  • Comprehensive eye exam – overall health and history can help diagnose the cause.
  • Disease markers – to look for specific eye diseases such as decreased lactoferrin.
  • Schirmer tear or phenol red thread test – measures tear production.
  • Quality of tears test – dyed eye drops help determine the surface condition of your eyes.
  • Tear osmolarity test – measures the composition of particles and water in your eyes.

Treatment for Dry Eyes

Treatment for dry eyes can include implementing eye drops, sometimes called artificial tears. Treatments can reverse or manage dry eyes by improving tear makeup or function depending on the overall test results.

Sometimes, an underlying health condition can remediate the signs and symptoms of dry eyes, such as using a specific medication that causes dry eyes as a side effect.

Various treatments for dry eyes include: 

  • Medicine to increase oil gland production.
  • Eye drops to control cornea inflammation. 
  • Artificial eye inserts that slowly dissolve and mimic tears
  • Prescriptions (pills, gels, eye drops) to increase tear production. 
  • Autologous blood serum drops.
  • Nasal spray used explicitly for dry eyes.

If the above treatments do not help with dry eyes, a few medical interventions can help: 

  • Plugging the tear ducts with tiny silicone (punctal) plugs to prevent tear loss. 
  • Using special scleral contact lenses that protect the eye surface and trap moisture.
  • Unblocking oil glands by using warm compresses. 
  • Using hypochlorous acid spray to help keep eye pH normal and remove bacteria causing dry eye.

Do you suffer from dry eyes and need a solution ASAP? You’ve come to the right place; we can help determine the best treatment based on your symptoms. Contact us today!

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

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

Michigan Lasik

Is Love All You Need?

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Love and a sense of belonging are part of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. Simply put, love is a basic human necessity. As social creatures, love binds human beings and helps give life purpose. 

The aspects of love can transcend our understanding, but many report that love gives them physical and emotional feelings. Humans possess an innate ability to nurture themselves and others, whether it’s another human, a pet, or an inanimate object such as a garden. 

Generally, humans yearn for a sense of belonging within a community and seek lifetime partners. But love can go beyond romantic relationships. Unconditional love for family members and friends can be viewed as an act of kindness or a way of validating those in susceptible situations.

In the ancient Greek language, there existed five forms of love: familial love, friendly or platonic love, romantic love, guest love, and divine love. There is love as long as there is kindness, compassion, and affection.

Overall, love can bring positivity and a sense of comfort, but love has dark sides that cause more harm than good. Unrequited love, empty love, infatuated love, compassionate love, self-love, and courtly love are all terms identified by modern authors to describe dark love. 

These forms of love can cause isolation, mistrust and sometimes lead to homicide or suicide. Many serial killers have a family history full of dysfunction and an inability to receive love due to how they were raised. Narcissists are classically known to be too deep in self-love. 

In total, love is profound. It’s no joke. It can save or destroy someone. However, despite the positives and negatives, love is a basic human need. Can we live without it? Perhaps we could, but it’s likely that we wouldn’t have much success without it.

Feelings of love can release feel-good neurotransmitters in the brain that boost our mood. It can raise our heart rate and increase oxytocin production and norepinephrine. Some say these feelings are necessary for survival, but at the end of the day, it’s all relative. 

Love is as essential as a well-balanced diet. It’s the opposite of loneliness and helps fight depression and other diseases throughout the body. Having a balanced sense of love in one aspect or another can keep us motivated and determined to continue through life. 

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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

Electric Vehicle Tax Credits

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Sales of electric (and hybrid) vehicles are skyrocketing, leaving many new and prospective customers questioning which EVs qualify for the federal tax credit. The tax credit amount varies by household due to several factors, including whether the vehicle was manufactured in the United States, your income tax, and more. 

The IRS states, “You may qualify for a credit up to $7,500 under Internal Revenue Code Section 30D if you buy a new, qualified, plug-in EV or fuel cell electric vehicle (FCV).” The inflation Reduction Act of 2022 changed the rules for this credit for vehicles purchased between 2023 and 2032.

The federal tax credit is enticing, but it’s important to understand that you may not qualify for the full amount. For example, if you purchased a qualifying vehicle but owe $3,500 in income tax for the year, you will receive this as your federal tax credit. However, if you owe $10,000 in federal income tax for the year, you will qualify for $7,500. Unused portions are not available for refunds or applicable for next year’s taxes.

To qualify for the new federal tax credits in the Inflation Reduction Act, electric vehicles must be assembled in North America, must have at least 40 percent of its critical battery minerals and 50 percent of its battery components originating from the United States or countries with a free trade agreement with the United States. EVs must also have a battery size of at least seven kWh and a gross vehicle weight of less than 14,000 pounds.

For vehicles priced below $25,000, a new federal tax credit of $4,000 has been implemented. For EVs with an MSRP below $55,000, the revised credit applies and also includes zero-emission vans, SUVs, and trucks with MSRPs up to $80,000. Individuals reporting adjusted gross incomes of $150,000 or less, $225,000 for heads of households, or $300,000 joint filers will qualify for the EV tax credit. The tax credit also applies to plug-in hybrid EVs (PHEVs) as long as they meet the requirements above.

Here is a list of vehicles that qualify for the full tax credit in 2022 – 2023:

EVs

–    Cadillac Lyriq

–    Chevrolet Bolt EUV and EV

–    Ford F-150 Lightning, Mustang Mach-E, and E-Transit

–    Nissan Leaf SV, S Plus, SL Plus, S, and SV Plus

–    Rivian R1T and R1S

–    Tesla Model 3 RWD/Long Range and Model Y AWD/Long Range/Performance

–    Volkswagen ID.4, ID.4 S, ID.4 Pro, and ID.4 Pro S

PHEVs

–    Audi Q5 TFSI e Quattro

–    BMW 330 e and X5 xDrive45e

–    Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid

–    Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid

–    Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe and Wrangler 4xe

–    Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring and Corsair Grand Touring

–    Volvo S60 Recharge/Extended Range and S60 T8 Recharge Extended Range

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.