Livingston Reporting - page 285

The Importance Of Swimming Pool Coping

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How many in ground pool owners know the importance of their swimming pool coping?  A pools coping is nothing more edging for your pool however it serves a greater purpose than being a decoration.  Swimming pools coping helps prevent the water from seeping out on to the deck as well as hiding the rough edges around the pool.  These rough edges if not covered by pool coping would cause many cuts and bruises.  There are a variety of coping materials to choose from when it comes to coping for your pool.  Depending on your budget you can find a variety of quality coping materials for your pool.

One option in coping for your in ground swimming pool is poured concrete.  Known for its durability, long life span and affordability concrete is a popular option in pool coping and can be dyed to a variety of colors to match your pool area.  With pool coping the concrete must be poured in.  This helps to limit stress on the pools edge and keep the surface even and uniform in strength.  Regular maintenance and repairs on your pools coping will prevent cracks from expanding with the temperature changes.

Another option in pool coping that is not as popular as poured concrete is brick.  Using brick in pool coping adds a unique look to the pools edging.  The biggest disadvantage when it comes to brick is the rough surface as well as the fact that it tends to retain heat.

Stone is another charming alternative to swimming pool coping.  It is a material sought out for pools coping as it is tough, attractive and stays cool even in the hottest of temperatures.  The main disadvantage with natural stone pool coping is the cost associated with purchasing and installing it.

When it comes to commercial pool coping, safety grip is a popular option.  Safety grip coping is created using a concrete base that minimizes slipping with increased grip.  Many public swimming areas will use safety grip coping to help create a slip resistant surface for their swimmers.

Pool coping materials should be chosen based up your climate, the pools use as well as maintenance time and costs.  The style of the coping is something that needs to be considered as well.  There are four main types of coping styles including bull-nose, cantilevered, rolled edge and rough cut.  Bull-nose coping offers a flat surface with a rolled edge, cantilevered coping offers a straight angle drop to the water, rolled edge offers an upward curve, and rough cut which is often flat.

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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Updating A Newly Purchased Home

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Purchasing a home is the most incredible investment anyone can make.  When you own a home you are in charge of creating a space that is all your own.  The problem for new homeowners is that this can be an expensive endeavor.  Here are a few low cost improvements that can be done with the help of a general home contractor or by doing it yourself.

The biggest change one can make within a home without spending a ton of money is through the use of paint.  It is inexpensive and easy for most homeowners to do on their own.  General handyman service companies can be hired fairly inexpensively as well to achieve the same results if talent and time are an issue for homeowners.  A coat of fresh paint transforms any house on the interior or exterior.  Update any part of your home with the use of paint.

Flooring is another way homeowners bring new life to their homes without breaking the bank.  New carpet is relatively inexpensive as is refinishing hardwood flooring.  Ceramic flooring is a relatively inexpensive option to bring to life old linoleum floors.   The great thing about flooring is that it can be updated in stages.  Consider doing one room each quarter until you have updated the entire home.  Start with the areas in the home that are most visible and move on from there.   Flooring contractors can often get a better deal on flooring than everyday homeowners so if looking to redo your entire homes flooring consult a flooring expert.  This is especially true with hardwood flooring contractors as well as contractors that lay ceramic tile.

Landscaping is another area in which homeowners can update their homes relatively inexpensively.  Your homes curb appeal is something that should never be ignored.  Landscaping that has become outdated should be updated. When you can tell the year a home was built by the way the home is landscaped then it is overdue for a landscape makeover.  Your landscape should continue to evolve with your home throughout the time you live there.  Maintain the landscape, upgrade accessories and be conscience of changes in style.  Never make drastic changes; simple changes are more effective then large changes especially when it comes to landscaping.

Another major improvement for homes that can save you a ton of money without costing you a ton is with the addition of insulation.  Many homes are poorly insulated leading to loss of heat and air conditioning.  This increases homeowner’s monthly bills.  Adding insulation lowers monthly heating and cooling expenses without too much expense.

Update your kitchen.  This does not mean do a complete kitchen renovation however it does mean taking a look at the space and update the outdated areas within your space.  This can be done with a fresh coat of paint, some new faucets and updated hardware.  Even small kitchen updates can completely transform an outdated space into one that is modern and more accommodating.

Owning a home is a large expense in itself; updating your home doesn’t have to be.

The Home Doctor, based in Livingston County including Brighton and Howell Michigan, offers a variety of home renovations to clients ranging from bathroom remodeling to age in place home modifications.  Contact http://glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/ today all of your home renovating needs.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

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The Road To Purchasing Quality Kitchen Cutlery

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The road to finding the perfect kitchen cutlery is not one that has to be complicated or expensive.  Buying quality kitchen knives isn’t about purchasing an expensive set of knives; it is all about the basics.  The most important tip is to purchase knives that fit and feel right in your hand.  It will not matter what the latest chef is endorsing or what celebrity name accompanies the knife block set, what matters most is how it feels when you are using it.

The basics are important when buying cutlery.  When it comes to the assembly of a kitchen knife there are four basic components to every knife; the front of the knife, the tang, the bolster and the handle.  Each component offers a unique benefit to the user.

The front of the knife contains the knife blade, spine, tip and heel.  The part that cuts is the knife blade.  This is the sharpest part of the knife and is incredibly important to the knife’s use.  The spine of the knife is the area opposite of the blade.  The spine is used to add stability and weight to the blade and is the area in which you can add pressure when cutting without the worry of slicing your hand. The knife tip is the area that comes to a point on the end of the blade.  The tip is perfect for smaller cuts and for help in opening packages that are difficult to open.

The knife tang is the metal piece that extends from the knife blade that the handle attaches to.  The tang, along with the spine are the pieces of the knife that offer balance and weight.  Without the tang the knife would be too front heavy for proper use.

The knife bolster is the area on the knife that looks like a collar that separates the handle from the blade.  The collar is an important part of the knife as it acts as a guard for your fingers against possible slipping when cutting with the knife.  In knives the bolster can run all the way from the spine to the edge or on a partial way.  Quality knives for the kitchen will have a bolster.  Knives without bolsters are not a good choice for use in the kitchen.

Kitchen knives can be purchase with handles made out of several different materials.  The importance when choosing a knife handle material is how it feels in your hand as you are cutting with it.  Note that just because you choose a paring knife with a plastic handle this does not mean that all of your cutlery will feel best with plastic handles.  In cutlery it is okay to mix and match to meet your preferences.  Look at all the options in materials for your knife handles including wood, composite, stainless steel and plastic.

When seriously looking to purchase kitchen knives it is a good option to go to several department stores to test out the different options and to see what fits your needs.  When purchasing kitchen cutlery look online. Many online knife specialty stores offer the same knives as department stores at a discounted price.  Online shopping for knives is a great way to get the cutlery you are looking for without breaking the bank.

KnifeMule.com is an online retailer specializing in a variety of specialty knives including kitchen cutlery and top brands such as Zero Tolerance, Boker Tree Knives, W.R. Case Knives and more.  For more information or to purchase a variety of knives online find us at https://www.knifemule.com.

Knife Mule

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More Options in Pocket Knives

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Our series on pocket knives is coming to an end as we discuss blade steel, handle materials and opening mechanisms.  In our series we have looked at the different size pocket knives that are available, blade numbers, blade types, blade sizes and prices.   If you are considering the purchase of a pocket knife you will want to review the different options that have been discussed to find the perfect pocket knife for you.

When it comes to the blade steel options of pocket knives there are two main options to consider, stainless steel and carbon steel.  There are advantages and disadvantages with each type of metal options.  Stainless steel is easy to sharpen, resistant to rust, is great when being used in the rain and an ideal choice for survival knives.  If you are going to use the pocket knife in survival situations stainless steel is a perfect choice.  The disadvantages of stainless steel are that it quickly dulls, is more susceptible to stains and does not get as sharp as carbon steel.

Carbon steel is also a great material for pocket knives as well.  With carbon the edge is held longer, the material is harder than stainless steel, is super durable when used roughly and is a great blade for use in hunting.  The disadvantage is that is it more difficult to sharpen, is susceptible to rust and can stain.  Choose the material for your pocket knife based on what options and advantages are the best options for your circumstances.

Pocket knives come in a variety of handle materials to choose from.  Consider the look and feel that you desire when you choose a knife.  Aluminum is a light weight pocket knife material choice.  Celluloid is a material that can be turned into any color and fabricated to resemble natural materials. Bone, wood, steel, stag, titanium and more make up modern day pocket knife handles.

There are three types of opening mechanisms available for the blade when you purchase a pocket knife.  Manual-opening is the most common.  With manual pocket knives there is often a groove on the knife that makes it simple to open using the tip of your nail.  An automatic/switchblade is another option in pocket knife opening mechanisms.  This type of blade automatically opens with the push of a button.  A newer option in pocket knife opening mechanisms is the assisted-opening option.  An internal device engages the blade when pressure is employed upon the knife blade.

Locking mechanisms are also important on pocket knives.  Liner lock, lock back, mid lock, frame lock, ring lock and lever lock are all options available the only real difference is the location of the lock and the manner in which it is released.  Once the knife is locked in place no matter what type the blade is as stable as with any other lock.

Shopping for the perfect knife, whether it is a pocket knife or fixed blade knife is never simple.  There are many variables and options to consider.  Be prepared to test a few knives and top knife brands out before settling on a favorite.  Top knife brands can be purchase through online retailers at deeply discounted prices over those of retailers.  Consider this when looking to purchase survival gear and specialty knives.

KnifeMule.com is an online retailer specializing in a variety of specialty knives including pocket knives and top brands such as Zero Tolerance, Boker Tree Knives, W.R. Case Knives and more.  For more information or to purchase a variety of knives online find us at https://www.knifemule.com.

Knife Mule

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Choosing The Perfect Hunting Knife

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Hunters and fisherman alike all know that having a solid knife in their arsenal of tools is essential. Having a good knife is essential however when it comes to finding one that meets all of your needs the choices can become quite overwhelming.  Below are some tips to help you find a solid hunting knife for your outdoor adventures.

The first thing that you will want to consider and decide upon when it comes to choosing a knife to carry with you on hunting adventures is between a fixed knife and a folding knife.  For the heavy duty tasks involved in hunting a fixed knife offers the best stability.  A fixed blade knife is rugged, reliable, sturdy and simple to clean.  The main drawback is that fixed knives are bulky and take up more space than a folding knife.  To transport a fixed blade knife can be made simpler when using a sheath attaching the knife to a belt or boot.

If you do choose to use a folding knife instead because of the easy to carry feature a lock-back folding knife is a solid choice for a hunting knife.  A lock-back knife allows the blade to be locked in place using a locking mechanism creating a solid knife to assist in all of your hunting needs.  With the technology present in knives that are currently produced there is little risk involved in the locking mechanism to fail.  With any hunting accessory be aware of the risks and rewards.

The length of the blade is also important when seeking out a knife to use in hunting.  Choose a hunting knife that is between three and four inches long for the best results.  This is the perfect size knife blade for control and maneuverability. Consider the size of the animal that is being hunted as well.  Smaller animals can easily be skinned and gutted with a three inch blade as a four inch blade makes for an easier job on larger game.

The blade point is equally important on hunting knives.  There are three popular options in hunting knives today including a clip point, drop point and modified clip, drop, spear point.  A clip point blade offers a concave back with a fine point.  This blade is perfect for making small punctures like ones needed for removing deer rectums. A drop point blade offers a convex back.  This type of blade offers more maneuverability for skinning game and tends to reduce the risk of puncturing the animals hide. A modified blade can be found on lock-back style hunting knives and offers the advantages of both blades.

The handle on your hunting blade is as important to your hunting knife as the blade length as well as type.  Both wood and bone handles are popular options when choosing a knife to carry with you while hunting.  They tend to be warmer to the touch then a metal handle on those cool autumn and winter mornings.  The problem with wood and bone is that they are often adorned with metal inlays which can feel quite cold.  Knife handles made from polymer and nylon are the best options as they offer a combination of a solid grip, warmth and tend to lessen the overall expense of a hunting knife. Find a handle that fits your hand, is easy to grip and contours to your thumb and fingers.

A solid hunting knife is like a best friend that accompanies you on all of your outdoor adventures; be sure to find one (or two) that are perfect for your next hunt.

KnifeMule.com is an online retailer specializing in a variety of specialty knives including hunting knives and top brands such as Zero Tolerance, Boker Tree Knives, W.R. Case Knives and more.  For more information or to purchase a variety of knives online find us at https://www.knifemule.com.

Knife Mule

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Understanding LTL Shipping Rates

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When looking into global logistics it should be noted that less than truckload shipping is growing in popularity.  Shipping smaller orders around the world is less expensive and quicker than using other modes of shipping freight.  When thinking about less than truckload shipping it is best to look at it as a way to transport like items in small quantities from a variety of different locations at a cost savings to business owners.  Bringing together small shipments of like kinds of goods saves time and money.

When calculating the rates in less than truckload shipping consider the total miles that will be covered as well as a fuel charge.  LTL shipping rates use a rate/mile basis and fuel charge to determine the rate in which shipments are sent.  Understanding this along with some of the other factors that can influence LTL shipping rates is useful in helping to save money on logistics here and abroad.

Base rates are taken into consideration when it comes to LTL shipping.  This rate is most often determined based on every one hundred pound shipped.  This rate will vary from one LTL provider to another. The CWT, or Centum Weight is calculated by looking at considerations such as the type of freight, the distance traveled and the total weight that is being shipped.  Carriers will modify and shift base rates annually.

The National Motor Freight Classification, commonly referred to as the NMFC classifies freight based on type and weight.  The NMFC has based at least eighteen classes of freight based on liability, product density and the type of special handling needed to ship the specified freight.

The type of freight being shipped also helps to create the cost associated with shipping LTL.  The carrier and customer will enter into an agreement based upon the type of freight to be shipped.  The agreement is made to help clients that send multiple consignments or items which in the end reduces the expense by a considerable extent.  The more a customer ships with a certain carrier the more reasonable the rate will be overall.

The distance shipments have to travel are also factors in less than truckload shipping.  The more miles that need to be covered the more expenses carriers acquire and therefore affecting the cost to ship.

When it comes to shipping and global logistics take into consideration the different factors that come into play in the rates that are charged for goods to be shipped.  Knowing and understand these key factors will help you to negotiate the best rates possible in LTL for your company.

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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Understanding Gate Operators

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Gate operators create convenience in home security.  A gate operator is a mechanical device that is powered by solar energy, electricity or a combination of both to open and shut the homes electronic driveway gate.  Gate operators can be easily installed on both sliding and swing gates to allow remote entry into the homes driveway.

Gate operators are controlled in many different manners including the two most common remote control and card reader entry.  With the use of a gate operator in both residential and commercial applications you achieve a higher degree of security, convenient access and egress control.  They can be configured in a number of ways depending on what is most suitable for your gate type, the size of the gate and how often the gate will be cycled.  For commercial gate operators it is important to purchase an industrial grade operator to support the number of times it will be opening and closing each and every day.

Four main gate operators are sold today and are each specific to different applications.  The lift gate operator is a simple device that moves the obstruction out of the way.  Lift gate operators are most often used in access and egress points within parking slots.  Slide gate operators are most often used in large residential complexes and residential driveways.  A slide operator simply moves the game in one direction to allow for entry.  Swing gate operators are used in gates that have two side by side pieces.  A swing gate operator uses two separate motors top open the gates, one for each side. A trolley gate operator is often seen in parking garages and works on the premise that the gate is pulled up allowing access.  All gate operators are installed using sensitive sensors that offer safety while using the gate.  The sensors set limitations for the gate when opening and closing.

When it comes to protecting your home or business commercial and residential electronic entry gates offer a superior choice in protection.  Gates have become less expensive and more readily available throughout the consumer market making electronic entry gates more commonly seen in residential areas such as driveways and entry into exclusive communities.  Electronic entry gates are popular in parking garages to create a safe and secure place to park your vehicle.  This is an option that is often seen in large cities and helps to secure vehicles as well as creating safety for the people using the parking garage. Gate operators with the assistance of electronic gates keep people out that don’t belong which helps to protect those that do.

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

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The Biggest Bang For Your Buck In Kitchen Renovations

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When it comes to renovating your home, especially in your kitchen there are certain updates and upgrades that give you a large return on your investment.  There are also a great deal of ways to waste your money when it comes to kitchen renovations.  Consider the following when looking into remodeling your kitchen.

The first and best use of resources is to hire a contractor that specializes in kitchen renovations.  A kitchen contractor can save you a ton of time and money.  Even with the added expense of a contractor it will amaze you how much less you will spend on your remodel over what it would cost you to do it on your own.  Kitchen contractors have experience that will save time and in turn money as well as connections when it comes to materials needed to create a space that is desired.

When it comes to kitchen renovations the biggest bang for your buck is the kitchen counter tops.  Granite, Corian and Silestone are all popular options in materials for counters.  A decent counter top can cost upwards of four thousand dollars all of which is easily recouped in the increased home value that occur with your updated kitchen.

To avoid the cost of new cabinets consider cabinet door re-facing.  This gives you all the benefits of new cabinets without the considerable expense that goes along with them.  New cabinet doors can change the entire look of your kitchen.  Along with cabinet re-facing consider updating the hardware on the cabinetry throughout the kitchen.  This is a fairly inexpensive update that offers a great deal of change in the look and function of the kitchen.

Another renovation within the kitchen that offers a big bang for your buck is kitchen flooring.  Vinyl kitchen flooring dates not only a kitchen but the entire home.  Upgrade kitchen flooring to ceramic, hardwood or bamboo.  Flooring is expensive.  Finding discontinued flooring for your kitchen is one way to offset the expense.  If you are not set on a certain look, color, feel or material this may be the way to go.  Look at different home improvement stores.  When you find something that interested you, even if discontinued ask if there is any way to have shipments from other stores sent to your local store.  If this is not a possibility it may be worth a short drive to collect the materials needed to complete a new kitchen floor for your home.

Jason Foldenauer Construction, out of Howell and Brighton Michigan, offers a variety of home renovations to clients ranging from kitchen and bathroom remodeling to home additions and storage sheds.  Contact http://www.jfcremodeling.com today for your entire home renovating needs.

Jason Foldenauer Construction

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Good Clean Fun With The Installation Of A Gunite Swimming Pool

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When summer approaches homeowners look towards ways to keep their children safe, active and at home.  Often times this can include installing an in ground cement and plaster finished pool.  Having a gunite pool installed at your home is a lot simpler and more affordable than ever before.

When it comes to in ground or above ground pools they are incredibly similar in normal operations.  Both pools require filtration to be keep the pool free of debris, chemicals to maintain the ph balance, maintenance to keep it clean as well as basic surface cleaning.  One basic difference is that in –ground gunite swimming pools require maintenance on the pools plaster coating where as above ground pools will need thorough inspections of the vinyl lining.   The rest of the pools regular maintenance stays about the same.

1)      Debris will float on the surface of the water no matter what type of pool you have.  The first task is to remove the debris with a pool skimmer.  Pool owners should keep up on skimming their pools.  It should be done once or twice a day.  This also keeps the job from becoming overwhelming.

2)      Both vinyl and plaster pools alike need to their walls to be cleaned.  By scrubbing the pool sides with a plastic-bristle pool brush you prevent algae and debris from sticking to the sides and staining the pool.  Move the brush in a circular motion around the entire lining of the pool. This will clean the sides without causing damage to the lining or plaster of a pools surface.

3)      After you scrub the sides of the pool with the plastic pool brush wait ten to fifteen minutes for the dirt and particles to settle on the pools bottom.  Vacuum the pools bottom slowly taking in all of the debris that has been rustled up.  By moving the vacuum slowly you will avoid stirring the dirt up and it is more efficient at getting all of the debris. Brush and vacuum the pool every week to keep the pool clean and as fresh as possible.

4)      Add the correct chemicals to balance the chlorine and remove the algae.  Follow all of the instructions while using pool chemicals.  Make sure to spread the pools chlorine around.  Dilute the chlorine as you add it to the pool avoiding staying in one place.

5)      Test the pools water ph and alkalinity levels once every two weeks.  Chlorine levels should be maintained around three parts per million and ph levels should read between seven point two and seven point six.

6)      The filtration systems should be cleaned thoroughly each week.  The main filter on the pool should be checked and emptied daily.  This is where large debris will end up.  Many people find critters that have drown in the pool in the filtration system.  So be aware that this may happen to you

7)      Keep the pools filtration systems running at least eight hours a day to keep the pool circulation and filtering regular and the water as fresh as possible for your swimming adventures.

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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The Truth About Men Going Through A Divorce

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When it comes to the image of men in divorce the perceptions is far from reality.  What we envision is that all men going through divorce dump wife number one for a hotter, younger version in wife number two.  We see this in every Hollywood story but the fact is that movies and Hollywood are far from real life. The truth is that most marriages end not because the man has decided the marriage is over but in fact the woman.  Two-thirds of all divorces in the United States are initiated by women.

The truth is that divorce often hits men far worse than women. They are emotionally unprepared and the support for men going through a divorce is far from what is available to women.  Yes, the truth is that most men fare better financially in the process however when it comes to the emotional toll men are hit harder than the portrayed images we have comes to see.

Men often take the marital failure personally and believe that they should have been able to fix it before it became unglued.  Fixers by nature, men have a difficult time admitting defeat.  Divorce is often seen as defeat.  Many men also don’t seek the emotional support that is needed with everything that divorce throws at them.  They are under the illusion that support makes them seem vulnerable and week and therefore tend to take internalize the pain. This leads many into self abuse such as drinking and drugs to cope.

Men don’t handle being alone.  The statistics show that after divorce men are more than eight times more likely to take their lives than their female counter parts. After divorce men that are alone often suffer from depression and typically end up in a new relationship; often times a relationship that is doomed from the beginning because it is only based on them not wanting to be alone.

When it comes to men going through divorce there is a stigma that comes with it; a code of masculinity.  This stigma comes with divorce, being fired from a job and any situation that is seen as failure to a man.  Thankfully many men do hit a point that they understand that the only way to move forward it to seek out support and counseling.

I have talked with many men after getting emotional help to allow them to move forward in their lives after divorce.  A majority of men start to understand what their marriages were missing and gain the knowledge to correct the problem.  Men often feel that if they would have had this emotional support in place before the divorce that more likely than not they would have been more apt to work with their spouse to save their marriages.

We often don’t realize it isn’t what we are giving it is what we are withholding that keeps us on the same page with our spouse.  Men see this through the emotional grieving process.  It is not the income they provide, the big house, the nice car but instead the attention their family craved that would have saved their marriages.

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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