Livingston Reporting - page 260

A Deeper Look Into How Computer Viruses Affect Us

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Through the course of working with technology and using the internet most of us have had an encounter with a computer virus.  Most systems use anti-virus software, a program that can help to eliminate common computer viruses from invading your computer system as well as prevent common symptoms that occur when a virus is attacking your computer.   Often times when a computer is infected it is because a new virus has been created to override the anti-virus prevention allowing the virus to infiltrate your computer system and network.

Computer viruses can attack your system in several different ways.  One way to get a virus is to download it from an email.  A virus can disguise itself in a funny image attachment, a greeting card or an audio video file.  Don’t open any type of email that looks suspicious even if the email is from somewhere or someone you are familiar with.  If you are unsure just don’t open it as it may just be a computer virus sent from an infected network that their computer is connected to.  This is true of instant messaging programs as well.  When opening outside materials use caution.

Another way a virus can attack your computer is through downloads off of the internet.  Coupon bars, illicit software or files and programs that you have downloaded can all potentially contain a virus.  When downloading anything off of the internet know the source from which the download is coming from.  If you need to download software or a program to run something on the system go directly to the site to start the download.  Many pop ups with downloads for the software will pop up all over your computer.  It will be impossible for you to tell whether one is infected or not before it is too late and your system has become infected.  The best way to avoid this is to go straight to the site to access the download.

Removable media may also become infected if the media is used on a computer that is infected.  Use precautions when using the same media disk between public computers and your private system.

In order to minimize the risk of infecting your computer it is important that you take precautions when opening emails, downloading software and using removable media.  It is also crucial that you update the anti-virus protection on your computer system regularly to keep newer viruses from being able to creep in and infect your system.  If at any time you find your computer is acting differently turn the machine off and take it in to a local computer repair shop for a virus removal and tune up.  Turning the machine off immediately helps to prevent the virus from spreading throughout your machine.

Computers Plus Service, in Brighton Michigan, provides a wide range of valuable services for residential computer repair as well as a variety of commercial computer services to the entire Livingston County area including Howell, Brighton and the surrounding areas.  You can find out more about the services offered by CPS at http://www.cpsmi.com.

 

Creative Programs and Systems

, , , , , , , , ,

Advantages of Aluminum Over Other Fencing Materials

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There are a variety of benefits for installing a fence with a gate around your yard or pool.  The advantageous of choosing aluminum are endless as well.  This article will show you how aluminum fencing can not only protect your family but add value to your home.

The Usefulness of Aluminum Fencing

  • Using a fence helps to prevent the drowning of children and pets in backyard and community pools.  The addition of a pool gate allows access to be gained only when unlocked.  Locks can be put at a height that is out of the reach of children therefore not allowing them in the area without an adult to unlock the gate.
  • Fences also allow backyards to be enclosed keeping pets and children contained within a safe space.  Not only does a fence prevent them from escaping into busy roadways it prevents unwanted guests within your space as well.
  • Another benefit that comes from fencing is that it keeps unwanted people from entering the property.  This is a large deterrent for thieves as is the addition of a driveway gate.
  • Gates and fences enhance the appearance of your home, landscape and pool area.  This adds aesthetic value as well.
  • One last way fencing is useful is by adding to the value of your home.  A fence adds equity to your space whether it is a home or business.

The Main Advantageous of Using Aluminum in Fencing

  • Aluminum fences are powder coated and come with a lifetime warranty against cracks, peeling paint and chips as well as manufacture defects from craftsmanship.
  • There are a number of options in style choices, grades, colors and optional features when it comes to aluminum gates and fences. 
  • Over the long term when you take into consideration the expense involved in maintain other types of fence materials the extra aluminum costs to begin with is greatly outweighed.  Initial expense aside aluminum is cheaper overall in the fence arena.   
  • Maintenance on aluminum is almost nonexistent.  With its power coating it is rust resistant.  The fasteners and gate hardware are created from stainless steel and nylon therefore creating a rust free fencing material.
  • There is ease in installation when it comes to installing an aluminum fence.  The material is lightweight and easy to maneuver.  The panels are also preassembled making the process to put the fence all together simpler.
  • Aluminum is the chosen material when it comes to pool fencing as it meets B.O.C.A. safety standards in both residential and commercial applications.

The list goes on and on when it comes to the wide range of benefits that come with aluminum fencing.

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!

iFenceUSA

, , , , , , , , ,

Catch The Attention Of Your Target Market Using Shrink Sleeves

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

One of the most crucial points in introducing a new product or brand is catching the attention of the consumer that you are targeting.  Without customers purchasing your products they will eventually fail.  Bringing attention to your product is of utmost importance.  One way this can be accomplished is through product labeling.  Manufacturers must develop a scheme that allows them to achieve their ultimate goal; selling products to their targeted market.

It is important to understand that consumers are offers a great deal of choices when looking for most any product on the market.  Competition is heightened throughout every market especially with the popularity of online companies.  It is crucial that every tool is utilized to ensure success.  This is true with every detail of the product.  This is why many industries are turning to shrink sleeve labeling.

Using shrink sleeves allows many benefits to both manufacturers and consumers.  They help to simplify marketing tasks as well as offering specific consumer benefits.  In order to attract the most consumers as possible for your business it is best to consider shrink sleeve labeling.  Below are several advantages shrink sleeves offer over other labeling options available today.

  • Contemporary Designs:  Shrink sleeves offer unlimited possibilities when it comes to their designs.  You can not only use a variety of colors elements but can add on additional designs and catchy phrases to win the attention of consumers.  The sky is the limit when looking to print onto the material which shrink sleeves are comprised of.
  • Three Hundred and Sixty Degrees of Information: With the ability to print on all three hundred and sixty degrees of film shrink sleeves make it possible for consumers to bring home all of the product information within the products packaging.  All the data and requirements set out by the FDA can be displayed in a functional way with the additional space that is offered with shrink sleeve labels.
  • Brand Familiarity:  If you are looking to create a brand name it is good to understand how shrink sleeve labeling helps to create familiarity and in turn product and brand loyalty.  Shrink sleeve labeling can help create trust between the brand and the consumer making the choice simple when choosing your product time and time again.
  • Product Safety: One of the most prominent features of shrink sleeves is the tamper proof wrapping.  There is absolutely no worry of product tampering when manufactures choose shrink sleeve wrapping helping to ease the minds of consumers.

Give your product the winning edge that comes along with using shrink sleeve labeling. It will benefit any product marketing strategy and compliments your marketing mix.

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.

Anchor Printing

, , , , , , ,

Functional Labeling Found Using Shrink Sleeves

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The world of labeling and packaging is a mystery to most of us.  When we go to the store we don’t really focus on what type of label or package the product is in.  However the label and package make a huge impact on what we purchase but it is all subconscious to us as consumers.  One of the most popular options in labeling is shrink sleeves.  It is highly regarded within the manufacturing community as one of the best product branding tools.

Next time you make a purchase look to see what type of label used.  From sodas and cooking ingredients to toys and outdoor chemicals shrink sleeves are used to brand products.  Shrink sleeves, when designed properly, really allow your product to pop and stand out from the competition.  Below is a list of advantages that shrink sleeve labeling offer for both manufacturers and consumers.

  • Maximum Protection: With shrink sleeve manufacturing you not only get three hundred and sixty degrees of advertising but also maximum product protection.  Shrink sleeves give a tamper proof seal on your product that is sure to be as eye catching as it is protective.
  • Functional Packaging: Another benefit with shrink sleeve labeling is the functionality it allows for product shape and design.  Even the oddest shaped packages can be labeled using shrink sleeves.  Not only does it allow for maximum flexibility but also can guarantee that the advertising on the product is what is needed as well.
  • Economical:  When you can advertise your product without additional expense or burden you are saving money.  This is what is accomplished when choosing shrink sleeve labeling.  The thin plastic film helps to ensure an economical manufacturing process.  It also allows for inexpensive experimentation with your products label to help brand your products.
  • Client Trust: As a manufacturer you want to gain your clients trust.  This can be accomplished easily with tamper proof shrink sleeve labels.  When you encase your product with a shrink sleeve wrap you are guaranteeing that your product has not been tampered with.  This is a huge benefit to consumers especially when product tampering can affect your entire family including pets.
  • Preserved Look: If you are looking for a label that helps to provide damage free shipping process that leaves the product looking as good as when it left for distribution look no further.  The extra layer of “skin” that shrink sleeves provide ensure an extra layer of defense against product damage.

Shrink sleeve labeling has become one of the most common methods of labeling today.  Your label is an important part in marketing your brand and product.  Choose wisely and look for a label that is as beneficial to your marketing and advertising campaigns as it is protective to your product.

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.

 

 

Anchor Printing

, , , , , , ,

Aluminum A Popular Option In Fencing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

As you start to plan to install a fence at your home you will discover there are a multitude of options to choose from.  One of the most popular options in residential fencing materials is aluminum.  This option in fencing offers a great deal of benefits over other materials.  As you will see below the advantageous are numerous when you choose aluminum fencing for your project.

Ease of Maintenance and Simple to Clean

One of the biggest advantageous when it comes to installing an aluminum fence around your home or pool is the simplicity of maintaining it.  There will never be a need to paint or stain your fence when choosing aluminum.  To keep your fence in top shape and looking as new as the day it was installed all the maintaining it will require is a good spray down with a hose.  If you are looking for a fence that basically maintains itself look no further.

Wide Selection of Styles

Aluminum fencing comes in a variety of decorative and ornamental styles.  There are a number of color options, finials, top and bottom railing options when it comes to aluminum.   There is guaranteed to be a style that will match every landscape, every style of home, every pool and every homeowner’s desires.

Resistant to Corrosion

Another major benefit is how corrosion resistant aluminum is.  It is meant not to rust.  In order to protect the fence surface is finished with a powder-coat.  This helps to increase the appearance of the fence and makes the fences surface smooth.

Easy Installation and Lightweight

Aluminum fencing comes in easy to install fence panels.  You can save a lot of money by installing the fence on your own. If your landscape is on a slope you can purchase panels with a rackable feature that allows them to conform to a slope.  It is simple to install the posts and place the panels and most often can be done on a weekend.  Aluminum is also an incredibly lightweight material making panels easy to manipulate during installation. Aluminum panels can be easily carried by one person because they are so light.

Trouble-Free Repairs

If your aluminum fence ever becomes damaged it is easy to repair.  If the damage is major the fence panel needs to be replaced a new one can be ordered and installed with ease.

Durability

One of the most important factors of fencing is its durability.  The more durable the material the less often the fence needs attention.  This is one of the main reasons that aluminum is such a popular option in fencing throughout the world.  Most often aluminum fencing comes with a lifetime warranty as well.  If the surface of your fence starts to crack or peel or the fence has any manufacturing defects the panel will be replace under the warranty.

Comparative Cost

In comparing costs between fencing materials you should note that although the upfront cost is a bit more for aluminum the expense is outweighed when it comes to factoring in the extra expense that comes from maintaining other fence materials.  Also with the lifetime warranty you never have to worry about the cost to replace your 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!

iFenceUSA

, , , , , , , , ,

Reducing Electronic Waste

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The environment is something that is important to each and every one of us.  In commercial settings, electronic waste is abundant.  Reducing this waste is something that has become an important priority in these settings.  Professional companies handle e-waste disposal and will come in and recycle or refurbish your used electrical components and equipment.

There are several simple ways to reduce the electronic waste that is put out by our companies and create a positive impact on the environment we live in.

Maintain and Preserve Instead of Change

Newer isn’t always better.  Many times we change equipment when it is unnecessary just because a new model has been introduced not when it is actually beneficial to the needs of the company.  Yes, technology is progressing and we like to keep it up to date so that we don’t fall behind within our industries; another way to do just that is with software upgrades.  When components fail you can replace them in order to maintain older equipment.

A simple example of this can be found by looking at home appliances.  When the refrigerator stops chilling food we don’t automatically look to purchase a new one.  Most of us hire an appliance repair company to evaluate the issue and quote us the cost to replace and repair the issue.  This happens to be less expensive nine times out of ten and reduces the environmental footprint we leave behind.

Choose to Recycle

Electronic waste is more toxic than other types and harder to break down.  When you throw away electrical components, lap tops, mobile phones, computers or computer parts you are negatively affecting the environment. Think about the amount of electronic waste that you alone create and multiple that over and over again.  Proper e-waste disposal needs to become a priority.  Many companies will properly dispose of and recycle electronic waste.  Most offer services where they will pick up the old hardware so that you don’t even have to be bothered at all.

Purchase Refurbished, Reconditioned or Repurposed Equipment

When a product is refurbished it means it has been taken back by the manufacturer and the defect has been repaired and rigorously tested.  Then they are sold at a discounted price because they are no longer in their original, factory package.  This doesn’t make them lower quality products.

Similarly, reconditioned products are components that have been used and repaired back to “new” to be sold again.  Reconditioned electrical components are popular within manufacturing and industry settings for their cost savings and ability to perform the same way a new product does at a steep discount.  Reconditioned components are taken apart, repaired, put back together and tested to ensure their reliability.

Repurposed equipment is taking something that once used for one project and using it for something new.  For instance, if a desk top has been used in the front office but is no longer keeping up with the demands of that department it is repurposed in an area that requires less out of it, perhaps as a machine that’s sole purpose is to create labels.  Repurposing instead of replacing is a great way to save money as well.

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

J & P Electrical Company

, , , , , , , ,

Financial Matters and Your Divorce

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

As a man it is important to protect yourself in divorce, especially in financial matters.  Below are a variety of items to have in order for discussions with your divorce attorney regarding your financial status.

Documents

Gather your financial documents.  You should take time to pull of your financial documentation together and move it to a safe location.  Make copies for your attorney to review as well.  Understand that your wife will be trying to gather the same documentation and will be going through every document she can to help gather information on your finances as well.

Bank Accounts

Collect the information together regarding bank accounts that are not only in your name but in your spouse’s name and children as well.  Don’t do anything rash with the money in your accounts before you speak with your divorce attorney.  If you have several joint accounts it is important that you discuss dividing the accounts between the two of you before your divorce is finalized.  No matter what you do don’t deplete the finances that support your family.  This will not look favorable when a judge is reviewing your case.

Credit Cards

Any joint credit cards should be closed to ensure that your spouse doesn’t go on a spending spree that leaves you responsible for half.  Close joint credit cards and notify the credit card companies that you are no longer responsible for credit cards held in your spouse’s name.

If you need credit cards it is crucial that you open new accounts with only your name on them.  These new accounts should not be linked to your old accounts or spouse in any way.

Insurance

If you are the spouse with insurance it is not appropriate to drop your spouse or your children until you have met with your divorce attorney and a judgment has been put into place by a judge.  You are the responsible party for all medical bills until your divorce is finalized and even after sometimes you may decide to keep your children and ex covered.  If you are still going to be held liable for medical expenses in your child support and alimony agreements you may decide to continue coverage.

Inventory

Take inventory of the valuables within your household.  If something within the house is of great sentimental value and you are moving out before the divorce is finalized speak with your divorce attorney about removing it.  You will want to ensure that anything of value or sentimental value is documented in the eyes of the court before selling, splitting or removing them from the house.

Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Men/Dad’s in divorce.  For experienced representation throughout the divorce process in Trenton, Michigan and the surrounding area you can find more information at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerfordad.com.

Longton Law

, , , , , ,

Women To Women Advice On Your Divorce

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Wouldn’t life be wonderful if we could give ourselves advice on experiences before we experienced them?  Divorce is a hindsight 20/20 situation.  Divorce is one of those situations where we need advice before we go through it but often don’t know where to turn.  Other women who have gone though divorce come in to play to help us.  Below are the top ten pieces of advice women give each other when moving through the divorce process.

It can take some time to recover

Just because the divorce process has started or finalized does not mean that there is an automatic switch that will allow you to recover.  Recovering from a divorce is difficult.  You won’t necessarily be able to bounce back and go about your life as it was.  Take time to recover.  You need time to process and heal.  You may feel like you can barely function and that too is okay.  Be ready however because there will come a time when you will be ready to move on and to let yourself heal.

Choose an attorney specializing in divorce

When looking for council don’t settle on an attorney; it is important that you find an attorney that specializes in family law and divorce.  A lawyer that specializes in something other than divorce and family law will not get you the results you want out of your divorce.  A divorce attorney understands all the ins and outs of local law and state nuances.

Analyze your finances

Get as much information as you can about the family finances.  You not only have to have a handle on your own finances but also a grip on all of the accounts within the household.  You should know what payments are coming out automatically, where funds are invested, what bills need to be paid and more.  If possible gather online usernames and passwords so that you are able to look up information as needed.

Consider the future of your living expenses

If you are going to be living on your own it is important that consider the money that you have coming in to decide what you can afford to have outgoing every month.  If you don’t know exactly what you will need you won’t know what to ask for and then may end up sacrificing your own financial needs.

Stop thinking of divorce as failure

Don’t beat yourself up.  Divorce is not about failing or being rejected all it means is that your relationship did not work out.  The sooner you understand that you are not at fault the sooner you will be able to get on with moving on with your life.

Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Women/Mom’s in divorce throughout Trenton and the surrounding Michigan areas. Find us at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerforwomen.com.

Longton Law

, , , , , , , ,

Choose Plaster For Your In-Ground Pool Surface

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When installing an in-ground pool you have a variety of different surfaces to consider including fiberglass, vinyl, plaster and pebble tec.  The most common type of surface material used when installing an in-ground pool is plaster.  Plaster is available in a variety of colors and textures; additives such as quartz can be added for extra durability. The chemical additions to the plaster help to hide stains and imperfections to the surface of the pool.  Below you will find tips to help ensure your freshly plastered pool surface is perfect.

Plaster During the Spring and Fall

Plastering a pool is best done in the spring and fall months because of the cooler temperatures.  Having plaster laid in the hot months can cause the plaster to dry out prematurely before the water is added to the pool.  It is less worrisome to plaster in the cooler months as a calcium additive can be added to the plaster to naturally speed up the curing of the plaster.

The prime time to have your pool plastered is when the temperature is consistently between fifty and seventy-five degrees with decent humidity.  Contact your local pool plasterer to schedule an appointment to have your pool plastered when the weather is perfect for your area. You can schedule an appointment for the fall even now.  If you know that after this season the pool will need to be re-plastered schedule a time to have it done during the cooler fall months.

Fill the Pool with Water Without Stopping

Having your in-ground pool filled with water all at once is the best situation for a freshly plastered pool.  The best way to accomplish this is to bring water from a hydrant or brought water in via a truck.  The new plaster cures better underwater and is best to be filled quickly.  Do not stop filling the pool with water at any point a dirt line or demarcation line will occur and is not the perfect addition to a newly plastered pool

Keep the Pool Clean

It is so important that your pool stay clean especially during the first few weeks after having it freshly plastered.  Dirt and leaves can stain new plaster so it is important that they are not allowed to find a home in your pool.  Instead of using a manual or automatic pool cleaner get out the pool brush.  Use the pool brush a few times a day, if possible, to keep the sides clean while also using a skimming net to filter out floating debris.

Balance the Chemicals in the Pool Water

Fresh plaster requires balanced pool chemicals.  The plaster will naturally have a high pH condition so it will be important add a pH reducer as necessary.  During the first year keep an eye on and adjust the total alkalinity regularly.  The calcium hardness needs to be maintained as well as if any of these things is off balance your plaster can etch or pit.  Not exactly the look you want for a newly plastered swimming pool.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Pound Pool Plastering

, , , , , , , , , ,

Tips for Choosing the Right Material For Your Fence and Gate

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Home owners have many choices when it comes to choose a material for the fence and gates for their yards and driveways.  The material you choose will be determined upon what your needs are.  Is the goal of installing a new fence or driveway gate to keep your kids and pets contained?  Are you looking for more privacy?  Is the reason you are installing a new fence simply to boost your property value and give the yard a nice look?  You also need to take into account the cost of the fence, the maintenance level, neighborhood restrictions and of course finding a contractor to install it.

Choose the Best Fence For Your Yard

When it comes to choosing a fence for your yard it is important to prioritize your needs over your wants or desires.  You may think you want a privacy fence but a picket fence may be better.  When you go to sell your home a privacy fence may look like you are trying to hide something when in reality all you need is a fence that looks nice and helps to contain critters and kids.

Consider Fence Maintenance

Certain fencing materials are more high maintenance than others.  Aluminum is practically maintenance free where as wood needs to be maintained with painting and staining yearly.  Another material that is fairly free from maintenance is vinyl.  White vinyl fencing shows stains and visible wear unlike aluminum.

The one drawback of aluminum or vinyl fencing is if it is to get damaged it may be difficult to find a replacement several years later.  Whereas wood fence is fairly common place and can be easily replicated to replace worn or damaged pieces.

Check With Your Local Home Owners Association

Living in a subdivision requires that you follow the rules of your home owners association.  HOA rules may govern the material, height and style of fencing you can choose.  If you install the incorrect material you risk legal fines and the expense of having to purchase another fence later on down the road.

Choose A Contractor To Install Your Fence and Driveway Gate

The final step in the process is to order and install your new fence and gate.  Make sure you hire a fence contractor that secures all of the building permits needed to install your fence.  The contractor you hire is responsible for planning for the installation including checking property lines.  It is crucial that the fence is installed within your property boundaries.  If the fence is located on even a corner of your neighbor’s lawn they are legally able to remove it.  This can be expensive as well as cause unnecessary turmoil with your neighbors.

SAC Fence Michigan offers a variety of electronic entry gates, access control entry systems and fence options for homeowners to choose from.  You will find a variety of fencing options online at http://www.sacfencemi.com/.

SAC Fence

, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,