Livingston Reporting - page 262

Keeping Your Roof In Shape Before, During and After the Storm

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The one thing we are familiar with in the northeast is the fact that storms are going to be a part of our lives and our homes.  After a storm has passed you may think you are in the clear.  This however is not the case.  We know another storm will come and because of that we need to ensure that we maintain and prepare ourselves and our homes for the next one.  To ensure our homes are protected from passing storms we need to do a thorough check to make sure our homes roof and windows are ready.

Before the Storm

The first thing that you should do is to hire a professional roof contractor to establish a norm for your homes roof.  It is better to begin the storm season with a roof that is in top shape.  A roofing contractor can access your homes roof and repair areas of weakness before the storm.  Repairing areas that are weak will help prevent damage from occurring; if damage occurs during a storm it will less likely be severe because of the preventative maintenance that took place.

After the Storm

Preventing major damage is key when maintaining your homes roof.  This is true even after a storm has passed.  It is important that you continue to protect and safeguard the roof after each storm has come and gone.  The first thing that needs to be done after you are sure that the risk of danger is gone is assess any current damage.  See how much damage was done during the storm, if any.  If any shingles have been damaged or torn off it is important that roof repairs are performed by a professional roofing contractor.  Repairs need to occur before the next storm; it is vital to prevent major damage during the next storm.

If the storm was substantial it is important to look for hidden damage.  If you are unable to assess the top of the roof it is crucial to have a roofing contractor out to review the roof for cracks and hidden faults.  Immediate action is needed to ensure that the damage doesn’t cause further issues especially for the interior of your home.

Before the Next Storm

Depending on the condition of your roof, the number of patches and repairs that have been done over the years, you may start to consider a full replacement.  Shingle roofs last anywhere from fifteen to twenty five years, you can continue to repair a shingle roof but it is crucial to weigh your options.  How long will the repairs last verse the expense of a whole new roof?   Often times the choice is clear; a new roof is the better option than continuing to spend time and money repairing an old one.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Home Pro Roofing MI

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Persuade Consumers Using Shrink Sleeve Labeling

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

In order for your product to succeed in the market today it is crucial to have a product label that ensures it stands out amongst the competition.  The label on your product, when designed properly, will influence consumers buying decision.  Labeling is a crucial part of any marketing mix.  It is necessary that the right material is chosen for your label in order to maximize the success of your venture.

There are a variety of materials to choose from in labeling; one of the best being shrink sleeves.  What is important, when selecting a material to use in your products labeling is that you focus on the option that comes with the most benefits.  When you are able to see the benefits in the material you have chosen for your products label you can easily guarantee your satisfaction.

To understand the multitude of benefits offered with shrink sleeves we will discuss some of the stand outs below.

Affordable Material: In business we are always looking to save a few dollars where we can.  We try to do this in ways that will not sacrifice the customer experience.  Labeling with shrink sleeves is one way in which manufacturers can accomplish this.  Shrink sleeves are made from affordable materials without forgoing quality.  Not only is the material used in shrink sleeve labeling affordable it is also the best option for product recognition.

Visual Impact: Shrink sleeves offer a great deal when it comes to design options.  With the three hundred and sixty degree space you can ensure that your product is displaying the image you wish to portray from all sides.  Shrink sleeve technology allows products of various shapes and sizes to achieve the most visual appeal possible in labeling.   Shrink sleeves offer unlimited options in color, texture and design making it preferred label method amongst product manufacturers.  Consumers as well visually enjoy the look and feel as well as the security offered with the use of shrink sleeve labeling.

Environmental Footprint: Another benefit that make shrink sleeve labels a good choice is that they can be used without causing harm to the environment.  The material that shrink sleeves are created from is biodegradable and will leave the smallest footprint on our environment.  You can achieve maximum results with your marketing mix without affecting the natural order of the environment.

Although labeling is one of the most basic components of your product it is important and should be designed effectively using a material that mutually benefits the manufacturer and the consumer.  Shrink sleeve labeling provides a number of benefits while being a material that is reliable, affordable, visually appealing and less harmful to our environment than other options in product labeling.

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

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Aluminum Is A Superior Choice In Fencing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Aluminum is a premiere type of fencing to encompass the perimeter of your pool or landscape.  Not only is aluminum fencing aesthetically pleasing it is also durable and long lasting.  When it comes to variety, no other fencing material offers the benefits that aluminum does. Whether you are looking to enclose your pool or backyard an aluminum fence will give you the protection and satisfaction you are looking for.  Although aluminum is attractive it is the many other benefits and advantages it offers that makes it the top choice for residential and commercial buyers alike.

What makes aluminum a better material for fencing?

  • Maintenance Free:  The last thing homeowners are looking for is one more thing in the yard to take care of.  That is just one reason that aluminum is the perfect option in fencing for your pool or landscape.  Due to the powder coating on aluminum fencing it does not rust; the layer of coating helps to protect the alloy while enhancing the product.  Unlike other materials in fencing, aluminum does not require updated painting, staining or power washing to ensure that it looks as good as the day you installed it even ten years later.
  • Safety Standards: Aluminum offers so much more than beauty to both residential and commercial users.  If you are looking for a fence that meets the latest standards and regulations set forth by the B.O.C.A. look no further than resort style aluminum fencing; designed specifically for pool safety in mind. 

Keeping in line with pool safety, aluminum fence panels can be ordered in a variety of heights.  To meet safety regulations the fence needs to be at least forty eight inches tall.  There must also me a minimum space between the lower top rail and bottom top rail of at least forty five inches as well as a space of less than four inches between the pickets. The panels are made in consideration that the ground is less than four inches away from the bottom rail of the fence.  An aluminum gate must be self closing and latching as well as that it opens away from the pool area.  The last requirement in pool fencing is that the latch on the gate is more than fifty four inches off the ground. All of these requirements are in place to keep small pets and children from entering the area without direct parental supervision.  

  • Economical: Aluminum is not the cheapest material in fencing upfront however given the time and money that you won’t waste on maintenance aluminum is the most economical way to go.  You will never have to spend a weekend painting the fence to make it look amazing or waste money hiring someone.  Aluminum fencing looks as good as the day it was installed with a quick wash every once in a great while. 
  • Style: No other material in fencing comes in as many varieties to choose from as does aluminum.  Decorative aluminum fencing comes in so many variations and colors that one is sure to match the look you desire for your home or pool.  You can choose from classic black to ornate green; whatever you can imagine there is surely an aluminum fence style to suit. Rest assured there is a color and style of aluminum fencing meant for your home.

iFence USA offers a 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 value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying aluminum fences shipped factory-direct from http://www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

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The Necessity Of Computers In Our Everyday Life

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Like it or not computers have become more of a necessity than not. Computers are no longer a nonessential piece of equipment in your life. Everywhere you turn computers are present from the office to the gas station life is made easier because of them. They help add to the attractiveness of your office and school presentations as well as increase the accuracy of your banking and tax calculations. In our normal every day routines, computers have done a variety of things for us some that we may even take for granted day to day.

Computer variations are abundant. No matter what form the computer you use comes in one thing is true of all of them; computers are smart, fragile, require care and regular maintenance. We should never take technology for granted; we should never treat the computers we use recklessly. The hardware inside our computer systems can be damaged with improper use. This will affect the performance of your computer. In order to keep your computers running at their best you need to take proper care of them inside and out. Proper maintenance will keep computers, big and small, running at optimal efficiency.

One thing that computer owners can do to ensure their computers are kept running up to par is by covering them. Dust is an enemy of computer systems and can enter through even the tiniest crevices. Once dust settles on computer hardware it can start to cause harm. Dust on the central processing unit causes a weird humming noise that stems from the fan. The computer may not perform well or may end up crashing if too much dust and debris is allowed to build up. Keep your computer covered when you are not using it to prevent dust from building up. Regular maintenance in the form of a computer tune up yearly can help as well.

Prevention is the best way to keep your computer running optimally. This is one of the many reasons that it is best not to eat or drink while using your computer. Laptops and desktops alike are prone to serious damage when exposed to liquids of any kind. Small particles entering the keyboard can also cause damage that will affect the computer negatively. The best practice when it comes to a computer is to avoid drinking and eating while on using your system.

When you regularly maintain your computer it will run smoother. Regularly scan your computer for malware and virus’s. Keeping your anti-virus up to date and run regular scans to prevent malware and viruses from taking hold of the software within your computer. Keeping your computer files protected will help ensure that your computer will not need major computer repairs later on down the road.

These are just a few tips to help you keep your computer running correctly no matter what you use it for in your day to day life.

Computers Plus Service, in Brighton Michigan, provides a wide range of valuable services for residential computer repairas 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

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Choosing Aluminum Over Other Types Of Fencing Materials

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Are you interested in installing an aluminum fence in your yard or around your in-ground swimming pool? Before you design, order or install your new fence it is important to understand the benefits and advantages to the material you are selecting. The goal when installing a new fence is to choose a material and style of fencing that works well with the look of your home. It is also important that the fence meets your expectation in regards to ease of installation and maintenance as well. When looking into different materials for your fence you will see that aluminum fencing is the only way to go.

The benefits derived from aluminum fencing over other materials are abundant. Below you will find the top five reasons consumers give when selecting aluminum fencing for their swimming pools or the perimeter of their landscape.

Visual Appeal: Aluminum is the most aesthetically pleasing material that can be chosen for fencing. It is that may have available in a number of styles and color combinations; one is sure to accentuate your home and landscape perfectly. The appeal of aluminum extends to an increase in property value for your home as well.

Maintenance Level: One of the most beloved characteristics of aluminum fence is the care level at which it takes to maintain the fence. Aluminum is basically maintenance free. It does not require painting, staining or yearly power washing. In order to allow aluminum to look as beautiful as the day it was installed spray it yearly with a garden hose and be sure to remove any algae or moss. An aluminum fence is the most sturdy and durable type of fencing available. It will stand the test of time wearing better than any other fencing material on the market today.

Safe and Secure: Aluminum fence panels can be purchased in a variety of heights. This will ensure that your homes perimeter will not only keep your kids and pets safe within; it also ensures that others stay out. This is true for aluminum pool fencing that is installed around an in-ground swimming pool. The fence height can be ordered to meet B.O.C.A. regulations. This will help to keep little ones out of the area while not in the presence of an adult.

Colors, Style and Sizes: Variety is something that aluminum fencing is never short on. There are several styles, colors and ornamental decorations to choose from when looking into a fence for your yard. Aluminum fence panels are truly customizable to your particular need. No other fence material has as many variations as aluminum does.

Ease of Installation: Aluminum fence is one material that can be installed on your own and look as if it was done by professional fence installers. The process of installing an aluminum fence is fairly simple. Following the step by step instructions and using online support, installing your new perimeter fence can be simply done within a weekend.

When you look into other fence materials you will see how aluminum outweighs the competition in every way. Aluminum fence offers a large variety of choices is visually beautiful, maintenance free, secure and can be installed easily; what more could you ask for?

iFence USA 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 http://www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

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Use Shrink Sleeve Labeling To Attract Customers

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Shrink sleeve labeling is a marketing tactic that many product manufactures have already turned to.  When walking into any grocery store you will see how prominent shrink sleeve labeling is with a number of different products. Take note the next time you go into a store; check out the variety of products that use shrink sleeve labeling.

The trend of shrink sleeves has become such a popular option in marketing because of the many benefits it provides to both marketers and consumers.

One of the most obvious benefits that come with shrink sleeve labeling is the ability for it to take on the same shape as any product.  Irregularly shaped products are easily labeled with shrink sleeve.  They take away the headaches that are encountered with packaging, shipping and of course labeling.  Greater efficiency comes along with the use of shrink sleeves.

Another major benefit of shrink sleeves is that they are tamper proof.  Shrink sleeves cover the entire product.  The sleeve conforms to the shape or the product and is designed to cover the entire product.  This is so important when it comes to the beverage and pharmaceutical industries but of course applies across the board.

Shrink sleeve labeling offers one hundred percent visibility.  This is unheard of in standard labeling in which only the front of the label is used for marketing.  The sides and back portion often are left for ingredient lists, UPC labels and other product information that is not necessarily important in the marketing of your product.  With shrink sleeve labeling important details and marketing information can be seen from all angels because of the three hundred and sixty degree radius shrink sleeve marketing offers products.

A great deal of variety is available when it comes to the versatility the shrink sleeves offer in labeling.   Shrink sleeves can be designed with a variety of affects including metallic, pearlescent and thematic to create a variety of effects on the labels that are printed for you.  Your ideas will not be difficult to manufacture when you use shrink sleeve labeling.

Another benefit that comes with shrink sleeves is how affordable they are in comparison to the benefits derived from labeling.  Shrink sleeves offer increased visibility using only a thin sheet of plastic film.

Labeling that uses the option of shrink sleeves will guarantee you a numerous number of advantages over other types of labeling.  Increased marketing, along with numerous other benefits make the advantages of shrink sleeve labeling a clear choice.

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

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Tips On Finding A Divorce Attorney

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

If you are sure your marriage is at the end of the line, beyond repair is better to have a consult with a family law, divorce attorney.  In order to make it through one of the most difficult processes of your life you must make sure you have as much information as possible.  You need an attorney that fits comfortably with your end goals; this will require trust and good communication between the two of you.  Over the next few months the two of you will work closely together; leaving you divulging important personal and financial information to someone who months ago was a perfect stranger.

Here are some tips to consider when shopping around for a divorce attorney:

Don’t Tell Your Spouse

Until you are fully aware of all of your rights and responsibilities it is best to keep your hunt for a divorce attorney on the down low from your significant other.  If your spouse finds out that you are looking for an attorney they may stop contributing to the household, remove joint funds out of the bank and stop paying bills.  It is best to find out where you stand legally before you notify your spouse that you have found an attorney specializing in divorce and family law.

Your Family Matters

Choose an attorney that specializes in family law.  As a mother you know the sole focus throughout the divorce needs to be your children and their needs.  A family law attorney should be able to put you in contact with experts in counseling children as well as experts in your personal wellbeing.

Ask Around For Referrals

If you have friends that are recently divorced ask about any attorney recommendations.  Your lawyer’s strengths should match your needs.  Don’t solely go based off of a favorable settlement achieved by the lawyer.  None of that will mean that they will be supportive as you proceed through the divorce process.  Even with a stellar recommendation from a friend or family you need to make sure the referral meets your needs.

Consider the Fees & Charges

Most divorce attorneys charge between three to five hundred dollars an hour.  Determine what the attorney’s retainer fee is and see what you realistically can afford.  Going into debt hiring a divorce attorney is not going to help your end game.  Find an attorney that you can afford that also fits the criteria you have in place with your wants and needs in the end.

Have a Thorough Consultation

During your consultation it is crucial that your attorney gets as much information as possible from you.  Often divorce attorneys offer a free; during this consultation the attorney will want to find out about your children, your income and your assets.  With your objectives and the information you provide the attorney will talk with you about what is realistic, what you should expect going further and what you can do to better your chances to achieve your goals.  This is a good time to get a feel for how your attorney will listen to you and communicate with you in the future.

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

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Choosing The Right Divorce Lawyer

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

It is hard to know where to turn when you start going through a divorce. This is partially because few of us have had experience with the legal ins and outs.  Don’t waste time trying to find a lawyer to handle your divorce.  Follow the steps below when looking for a divorce attorney specializing in family law.

Be Realistic

Going through a divorce is an emotional journey.  This will be hard but you must be realistic when proceeding with your divorce.  The sole reason you are going through the legal process of divorce is to dissolve the assets you have built up together and to determine the best path for normalcy in your children’s lives. The job of your divorce attorney is not to sit and sympathize with you; they are there to listen but their most important role is to provide you will the best possible outcome for after your divorce.

Stay Focused

This will be harder than it sounds.  The ultimate goal is to stay focused on the end result.  Don’t get caught up in your hatred for ex.  Don’t get too sentimental over the little things when negotiating marital assets; those are just things and can be replaced.  Keep focused on your divorce, getting through the process quickly, ending up with as little financial damage and having your family unit together as much as possible.

Understand The Goal

Know what you want out of your divorce.  Are you looking for a battle where you get each and everything possible from the other person?  Do you want to get through the process with as little ill effect on yourself and your children?  Mediation, with or without the help of a divorce lawyer can often be less expensive than a full blown battle in front of a judge.  Depending on your end goal will determine what type of divorce you will have.

Interview & Research Divorce Attorney’s

Don’t necessarily hire the first attorney you meet.  It is best to meet and interview with at least three different divorce attorneys specializing in family law.  Consider each attorneys retainer fee as well as their hourly rate.  Most attorneys will not negotiate their fees.  Ask for referrals and during your consult be sure to find an attorney that is listening to you and offering you an outcome that you can agree with.

Make A Choice

Now is time to make a decision on an attorney to hire.  Take into consideration the tips above; be realistic, stay focused, know your end goal and find an attorney to represent you that remains in line with your own personal criteria.

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

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Finding A Global Logistic Partner

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Whether you are evaluating a new freight broker or shopping for a first it can be hard to assess what you should be looking for.  Every freight broker is different; no one freight company is like the other.  An integral part of your business is the dependability of your freight broker.  In order for success in business your freight broker’s plan of success should be in combination with one another.  Here are some questions to consider when interviewing a freight broker that is new to your business.

Are they licensed and insured?

Recently new laws have been put into place regarding the licenses and insurance that freight brokers carry.  Federal law requires that anyone arranging transportation for compensation has a federal broker license that is issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.  Without at least $75,000 bond as well as the proper authority a freight broker should not be providing arrangements for the transportation of goods.

Have they been in business long?

Avoid working with a freight broker who has been in business less than two years.  Up until this point they are in basic survival mode themselves.  They have not had time to build relationships with carriers and have yet to provide proof of consistent success.  With time freight brokers build history, experience, great communication and personal relationships with their carriers.

Are they multi-modal?

It is important that the broker you work with offer a variety of modes of transportation options to get your good from one place to another.  Using multi-modal transportation brokers can offer business, large or small, the fastest shipping at the best price.  Depending on your needs consider if you need to work with a broker that offers more than nationwide shipping, not everyone needs international shipping but if you do it will be important that your broker works with international freight carriers.

Can you get estimates and shipping rates in writing?

Cheaper is not always better.  All quotes should be in writing.  This allows you to see all the details including accessorial charges on your shipment.  Communicate with your freight broker if charges are not clear.  Don’t be blindsides with duties and taxes, these should be included on the original estimate.  Your written quote should include every charge included in your shipment.

In our next installment on choosing a freight broker we will take a deeper look into how brokers choose carriers, how they bill and all about reviewing their references.

Jefferson Diversified Group, LLC is a Global Logistics expert offering LTL shipping and more. Check out available rates today at http://www.detroitltl.com.

Detroit LTL

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Spring Cleaning For Your Gunite Swimming Pool

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

It is finally the time of year that we can start discussing swimming pool spring cleaning.  It may seem early but it isn’t!  The sooner you start the better the outcome when you are ready to open the pool for the summer.  Spring cleaning your pool will help prevent algae from taking hold.  As soon as the temperature hits sixty degrees algae blooms and we all know it is not a friendly beast.  Test the water and add shock to avoid algae from sprouting at the very least.

Now let’s get started on where you should begin.  The first thing to do as a pool owner is to prep the area around the pool for what is to come.  Trim all of the shrubs, trees, grass and flowers that surround the pool area.  This step should never be overlooked as spring blooms can cause major issues when it comes time to open the pool.  If the bushes harbor old leaves it is time to pull them out.  Remove all of the extra debris left over from the fall and winter, paying especially good attention around the pump, filter and other pool equipment.

Once the area around the pool is clean it is time to move on to the cover of the pool.  If there is water on the cover it is best to use a pump to remove it.  Be careful to avoid taking water from beneath the cover out of the pool.  Once the water is removed off the cover the debris will be easily removed by gently sweeping the surface.  Clean the cover well and allow it to dry well; only a clean, dry cover should be stored.

Next check the pool water.  In this step it is also time to look at the pools plaster.  If the pools plaster is in need of repair now is the time to empty the pool and schedule the pool to be resurfaced.  Pool plastering should be done only by professionals as it is the one of the key structural elements to your pools integrity. If the plaster is fine it is time to get the pool water in to shape.  Get the pool equipment running, filters and skimming baskets in place and start adding water to the pool.  Fill the pool on the higher side because you will waste water as you go.  Vacuum out the pool waste and get the equipment running.  The filter is the pools best friend when it comes to spring cleaning.

Use a pool opening kit.  Follow all of the directions on the chemicals when using a pool opening kit.  Before testing the water allow the chemicals to circulate for at least a day before testing.  This ensures that you are not wasting money adding chemicals that are unnecessary.  Spring clean all pool toys while you’re at it and get ready to enjoy.  Using a pool heater you may even begin to use your pool during the spring season this year!

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

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