Livingston Reporting - page 43

Europeans Stock Up on Survival Gear

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Due to concerns over the crisis in Ukraine, Europeans are flocking to stores in droves to stock up on survival gear such as sleeping bags, camping cookers, canned, dehydrated, and freeze-dried food. Some of the purchases will be donated to Ukrainian refugees, while others are hoarded due to widespread fear of supply shortages or future conflict.

According to a spokesperson, in a Swedish hardware store, products such as plastic cans, camping gear, batteries, flashlights, solar chargers, etc., skyrocketed sixfold in the past two weeks.

The representative stated, “It’s clear that people want to be prepared for crises. The biggest increase is for products recommended to have at home during a crisis are radios.”

Grocery store sales noted an increase in purchases of milk powder, pasta, grains, and canned foods by more than 20 percent, according to Ica Gruppen, a Swedish grocer.

Various Ukrainian organizations are swooping up the products to send overseas, while some consumers are shopping for themselves.

Jimmy Bakker, an employee at Dumpstore Amsterdam, an outdoor supplier said, “When the war broke out, people were buying emergency blankets, emergency food rations, radios, and stoves. Last week, people rented vehicles, and they were going to drive to Ukraine to hand out there.”

Poland has taken in more than half of the three million Ukrainian refugees, and its convenience stores reflect the influx. The chain Zabka reported higher sales of canned goods, rice, groats, bottled water, etc., in certain regions.

Rossmann, a popular Polish drug store, has also been selling out of wet wipes, gels, soaps, toothpaste, deodorant, and the like.

175,000 Ukrainian refugees have been registered in Germany thus far, sparking sales of sleeping bags and mats from a popular sports chain called Decathlon.

Dimitar Margaritov, Chairman of Bulgaria’s Consumer Protection Commission, said, “We live in difficult times, but at the moment there is no room for panic.”

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Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for your prepping and survival needs. We are your trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you’ll need it later. Visit our website for more information.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Wolf Survival Gear

Dormant or Dead? Spring Grass Explained

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It’s that time of the year again, when Michigan grass awakens from a long winter dormancy. At quick glance, brown grass can be incredibly confusing, since it can signify both dead and dormant grass.

Before you can address the brown grass, you’ll need to know whether it’s still alive and assess the cause. While dead grass will not return to life in the spring, dormant grass will turn lush and green in no time.

If you’re wondering how to tell the difference between the two, read on to learn more.

  • The Tug Test: find a section of brown grass and pull on a small section with your hand. If the grass comes out of the ground easily, it’s dead. If there is some resistance, your grass is dormant. If dead, consider contacting a professional lawn company to reseed your grass and help with landscaping.
  • Scan for Patterns: If your entire lawn is brown, it is more-than-likely dormant. If you spot small patches or areas of brown grass, it is probably dead. Before you start reseeding your lawn, contact a lawncare specialist who can test for pests and diseases that can cause similar issues.
  • Varying Temperatures: weather conditions have a major impact on your lawn. Certain types of grasses will go dormant during seasonal periods, such as prolonged cold or heat. To ensure your grass stays luscious year-round, plant a mix of cool- and warm-season types.
  • Water Regularly: Maintaining a consistent water schedule ensures your grass has the chance to grow green again if it can. If the grass is dead, it will maintain its brown appearance. 

Though dead and dormant grass have similar qualities, they don’t necessarily have the same outcome. The best way to determine the state of your grass is to hire a lawn care company to assist in figuring out the issue that plagues your lawn.

After your lawn has a proper diagnosis, the lawncare specialists can help suggest the best ways to treat your lawn, making it as luscious as ever.

Is your commercial lawn brown? Let the professionals at T&T Property Maintenance correctly assess the situation and bring your lawn back to vitality.

T&T Property Maintenance has been visualizing, creating, and maintaining commercial properties since 1997. We offer a vast number of services for our clients, including lawn and landscape maintenance, irrigation set up and repair, fertilization, weed and pest control, snow plowing and salting, and tree trimming and stump grinding. We are licensed with the Michigan Department of Agriculture, so you can rest assured we will do the job right – every time. We work with commercial businesses of any size and offer our services in seasonal or yearly packages, and a la carte. For over 20 years, we believe a satisfied customer is the only kind of customer. Check out our website, call, or e-mail us today to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

T&T Property Maintenance

Electrification Viable Solution to Climate Change

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Extreme temperatures such as unordinary polar vortexes and heat domes have plagued the United States – a classic example of climate change. As the situation worsens around the globe, we are afflicted with more frequent extreme weather caused by greenhouse gas emissions.

To help remedy the situation, Congress is considering a new bill that presents a historic opportunity to significantly lower emissions, improve home efficiency, slash bills, and create hundreds of thousands of new jobs.

Replacing appliances run by fossil fuels with electrical appliances will improve efficiency and create clean energy, one of the most viable solutions to lower emissions and remove toxic indoor air pollutants. Some examples of these technologies include fully electrical heat pumps, dryers, and induction stoves.

To help the electrification effort, incentives are sprouting up country-wide. Scientists agree we must reach net-zero emissions to ensure Earth stays livable by 2050.

Unfortunately, this goal might be more difficult than anticipated, as over one hundred million buildings burn fossil fuels daily, contributing to 13 percent of the total amount of emissions. Almost 1.4 million new homes that were constructed in 2021 were made with fossil-fuel-driven gas heating or appliances.

The average home appliance lasts 10 to 15 years – buildings total roughly 50 years – so each new build that includes fossil fuels will result in higher costs for decades to come. To reach the goal of net-zero by 2050, all new buildings should have electrical appliances by 2025 or replace old equipment by 2030.

Fully electric homes can reduce homeowner costs in addition to toxic emissions. Research conducted by Rewiring America showed that 85 percent of all United States households would save money on monthly energy bills by converting to electrical appliances.

Electrification is much more than just appliances – electric vehicles are also a monumental factor when trying to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Contact the professionals at State Electric Company today to learn how we can help you reduce your carbon footprint and help fight climate change.

State Electric Company is a leader in the electrification of the nation. Our highly educated and experienced team of professionals uses industry-leading software technology and has partnered with manufacturers to deliver affordable solutions for all your electrical needs. State Electric Co. is also an exclusive distributor for Enel X JuiceBox EV chargers for residential and commercial use. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded to install charging stations for homes, offices, hotels, and more. With our extensive knowledge in renewable energy, our team provides customers – large or small – with efficient electrical solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can safely and affordably meet your energy needs.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

State Electric Co.

Sleep Apnea Affects More Than Your Mood

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According to the National Sleep Foundation, more than 18 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea. Sleep apnea causes many people to stop breathing while sleeping, often multiple times per night. Those who suffer from this condition generally have ocular irritation, risk of floppy eyelids, dry tear ducts, and an increased risk of developing glaucoma.

There are different types of sleep apnea, the most common being Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), which causes the airways to be partially blocked because of relaxed muscles in the nose and throat. Apnea (the absence of breathing) or hypopnea (slow, shallow breathing) is twice as common in men. It also generally affects people with obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and/or heart disease.

When the muscles in the back of your throat relax too much to allow regular breathing, sleep apnea occurs, causing lower-quality sleep. The body’s oxygen supply is also greatly affected, which can typically lead to serious health conditions. Contrary to the popular misconception, not all those who snore suffer from sleep apnea.

Interrupted sleep can cause a variety of issues such as fatigue, daytime tiredness, irritability, depression, headaches, difficulty concentrating, distractedness, or sore throats.

When it comes to the eyes, sleep apnea can cause several major issues:

  • Glaucoma: increased pressure within the eye can damage the optic nerve, leading to vision loss or blindness.
  • Floppy Eyelid Syndrome (FES): marked by an unusually large and floppy upper eyelid, FES can cause eye redness, irritation, discharge, and blurry vision.
  • Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION): symptoms occur when there is significant vision loss in one or both eyes without any pain, caused by a loss of blood flow to the optic nerve.
  • Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO): also called an eye stroke, it is categorized by a blockage within the small veins that carry blood away from the retina.

Other eye conditions correlated to sleep apnea include papilledema, keratoconus, and central serous chorioretinopathy.

Getting regular eye exams can prevent vision issues; contact Dr. Rohr’s office to schedule an appointment.

Rohr Eye & Laser Center offers the most advanced technology available to provide personalized and extraordinary care to our patients. Whether your goal is to maintain or improve your natural vision, we are here to help you. Call us at 877-579-0202 or visit https://www.michiganlasik.com/ to schedule an appointment today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Michigan Lasik

Viable Alternative for Diagnosing Coronary Artery Disease on the Horizon

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According to a new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, Cardiac Computed Tomography (CT) can potentially provide a safer alternative to coronary angiography for assessing patients who suffer from stable chest pain or have undiagnosed Coronary Artery Disease (CAD).

Researchers used a randomized trial to conclude that more than 3,500 patients with stable chest pain in a randomized trial had a lower risk of major procedure-related complications with the use of CT. In contrast, initial cardiac CT and coronary angiography had similar cardiovascular risks.

Marc Dewey, MD, head of the Department of Radiology on Campus Charite Mitte, said, “The trial confirmed that the CT-based examination is safe in patients with stable chest pain and suspected coronary artery disease. Among the patients referred for cardiac catheterization and included in this trial, the risk of major cardiovascular events was found to be similar in both the CT and catheterization groups, occurring in 2.1% and 3.0% of patients, respectively. The incidence of major, procedure-related complications was found to be lower in patients managed with an initial CT strategy.”

The study was conducted between October 3, 2015, to April 12, 2019, by 26 European medical centers and involved 3,667 patients who were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to undergo CT or invasive coronary angiography.

Patients eligible for the study were required to be over 30 years old and referred due to stable chest pain with a high probability of obstructive CAD.

The study’s primary outcome focus was on major adverse cardiovascular events, some of which include cardiovascular death, nonfatal MI, or nonfatal stroke. Secondary procedure-related complications that took place either during or within the first 48 hours after CT invasive coronary angiography were also of interest.

A total of 90 major adverse cardiovascular events occurred among the study participants during the follow-up period.

Henryk Dreger, Deputy Head of Charite’s Department of Cardiology and Angiology said, “Now that it has been standardized and quality tested as part of the trial, this method could be made more widely available as part of the routine clinical care of people with intermediate CAD risk.”

RadParts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerator and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost parts and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 or visit us on the web: https://www.radparts.com.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

RadParts

A Helpful Guide to Pool Opening

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You can’t see us, but we’re jumping for joy! Pool season is almost here, and after a dreary winter, you might be just as excited as we are…but not so fast. It takes more than skimming the water or removing the pool cover to “open” your pool for the season. Read on for suggestions.

Timer Settings
Ensure your pool timer is set to the correct season to run the most efficiently. You can waste money and energy by letting it run too long or too little.

Clean Debris
Skimmer baskets and the pump should be emptied of debris. Even though this might sound like a no-brainer, letting debris (like leaves) sit too long can clog the plumbing/filtration systems, damaging the pool pump. If the basket is cracked, make sure you replace it as soon as possible to avoid future issues. Also make sure you dislodge debris from the walls and floor by brushing around the pool.

Pressure Gauge
While the pump is off, the pressure gauge should be at zero. If it’s running above zero, it’s time for a replacement. This gadget is critical for understanding whether the rest of your pool equipment is functioning properly.

Sanitization
If your pool uses a chlorine float, fill it and replace it if cracked. The steady supply of chlorine (or sanitizer of your choice) will help your water handle heavy usage, animals, leaves, etc.

Check for Leaks
Look around the pump, filter, valves, and other equipment to ensure there are no leaks. Small leaks might not seem drastic, but they can eventually cause a disaster. Try to isolate any issues and contact a pool technician if you see any leaks.

Balance Water
Last but not least, get ready to hop in your pool by using chlorine, shock, or other pool chemicals to neutralize the pH. Use your water test results as a guide to determine what is needed.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Pound Pool Plastering

Common Household Items Used for Survival

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Having a complete survival kit in your home can bring you peace of mind, but did you know your house already holds lots of life-saving tools? You’d be surprised just how valuable your everyday items can be in a pinch from the kitchen to the bathroom. So, if you want to be prepared for whatever comes next, let’s look at some common household items you can use for survival.

  • Duct tape: As one of the most versatile tools, duct tape has countless uses. A person can repair clothing, structures, tools, and more. Another great use is to waterproof your shoes. Alternatively, you could use the tape as a rope or assist in building a shelter.
  • Nail polish: Nail polish is a flammable product that can help you start fires quickly. A great alternative use can be to seal holes in tents and tarps or as paint to color-code your tools.
  • Coconut oil: Self-care will still be necessary at the end of the world, and this is where coconut oil comes in. It can be used as a moisturizer for your skin or as an energy booster when you drink it. You can use it for cooking and healing small knicks and cuts.
  • Dental floss: Dental floss is pretty strong and can be used in nearly any situation you would need string in a crisis. Use dental floss to create a fishing pole or tripwire. You can use it to tie items together or stitch up a wound.
  • Pantyhose: A durable, stretchy, and lightweight material, pantyhose makes for a great food bag or fishing net.
  • Salt: Use salt to preserve your food, melt snow, or help remove rust from pots and pans.

Unexpected emergencies can happen at any time and any place. Even the most well-prepared individual can find themselves without proper survival equipment. Adapting to the supplies you already have in your home with some basic survival knowledge can give you an advantage over others and could someday even save your life. 

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for your prepping and survival needs. We are your trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you’ll need it later. Visit our website for more information.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Wolf Survival Gear

The Best Whole House Generators

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Seasonal storms, downed trees, and computer malfunctions can all cut off your connection to the energy grid, sometimes for days. Investing in a backup energy source for your home can make a big difference when the power goes out.

Depending on where you live, losing power could leave you without heat or air conditioning and threaten the food you have stored in your freezer and make it difficult, if not impossible, to work from home. The answer is a backup whole house generator that will supply your home’s energy needs until you get back online.

A whole house generator differs from portable generators in that this type of system kicks on automatically when your power goes out, even if you’re not home. In addition, it doesn’t need cans of gasoline to keep it running.

An article in Forbes advises that the best time to get a whole house generator is before you need it. We agree! Stay ahead of the never-ending fluctuating prices of gasoline and supply demand – when a storm or other crisis is looming, you can’t risk the variables.

Read on to learn who Forbes gives top five honors to as the 2022 best whole house generator:  

1. Generac Guardian WIFI-enabled Standby Generator

This system is powered by either liquid propane or natural gas, has an automatic switch to turn on the minute you lose electrical power, and allows you to monitor the system’s status from any WiFi-enable device. We like it because it’s quiet, affordably priced compared with similar units, and has an automatic high-temperature shutdown function.

2. Briggs & Stratton 12,000-Watt, Automatic Air-cooled Standby Generator

This unit packs a big punch in a small package. It has an automatic voltage regulator, smartphone app control via WiFi, and an efficient alternator. We like that it requires little room in your home and has a durable engine from one of America’s premium engine makers.

3. Champion 14kW aXis Home Standby Generator with 200-amp Whole House Switch

This generator is the most expensive option on our list, but it’s also the most powerful at 14,000 kW. It has an automatic switch and performs automated self-diagnostic tests to keep it running smoothly, even in extreme temperatures. In addition to its power, we like this one because it’s the quietest on our list.

4. Generac PowerPact 7,500-watt Standby Generator

The PowerPact generator is a good choice for a cabin or small home. It can power up to eight circuits in your home and have an automatic turn-on switch. This unit has the smallest footprint of the generators on our list, so virtually every home has room for it. We like it because of its lightweight, compact size and relatively affordable price.

5. Generac Guardian 3-phase 20kW, Automatic Standby Generator WIFI-enabled

This unit is one of the most advanced 3-phase, air-cooled generators available. It generates enough power for a large home or a small business. We like its capacity, and it’s reasonably quiet for the amount of power.

For professional and safe installation of automatic backup generators, call State Electric Company today!

State Electric Company is a leader in the electrification of the nation. Our highly educated and experienced team of professionals uses industry-leading software technology and has partnered with manufacturers to deliver affordable solutions for all your electrical needs. State Electric Co. is also an exclusive distributor for Enel X JuiceBox EV chargers for residential and commercial use. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded to install charging stations for homes, offices, hotels, and more. With our extensive knowledge in renewable energy, our team provides customers – large or small – with efficient electrical solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can safely and affordably meet your energy needs.Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

State Electric Co.

Can Cataract Surgery Protect Against Dementia?

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This article might make your decision more straightforward if you question getting cataract surgery. Not only can the correction of cataracts improve your quality of life, but new studies suggest cataract surgery may help protect you against dementia.

A study published in Jama Internal Medicine found that developing dementia was 29% lower for individuals who’ve had cataract surgery versus people with similar traits who didn’t have the surgery. While this information sounds remarkable, it’s important to note that more research is required to say definitively whether or not cataract surgery helps with dementia.

Other studies have taken a look at why cataract surgery may help with dementia. One study explores the idea that impaired vision caused by cataracts can lead to reduced sensory input to the brain. Reduced input means reduced simulation, leading to a loss of brain function. Additionally, a vision loss due to cataracts could lead you into a depressive state. Depression could increase the chance of developing dementia.

We do not know enough about the link between cataract surgery and dementia, and future studies will continue. However, there are some other exciting factors and benefits to consider in the meantime. For example, did you know that cataract surgery has also been thought to help with depression, encourage a longer life span, and reduce the risk of falling?

If you’re struggling with vision, don’t wait until it worsens. Talk to a doctor or medical professional about the benefits of cataract surgery today.

Rohr Eye & Laser Center offers the most advanced technology available to provide personalized and extraordinary care to our patients. Whether your goal is to maintain or improve your natural vision, we are here to help you. Call us at 877-579-0202 or visit https://www.michiganlasik.com/ to schedule an appointment today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Michigan Lasik

Dealing with Michigan Water Quality Issues

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One of the most attractive aspects of Michigan is the five Great Lakes and its abundant interior waterways. While freshwater is plentiful in our area, environmental issues constantly threaten its health. Read on to learn of some recent examples. 

The Flint Water Crisis

The water crisis that began in Flint, Michigan, in 2014 reminds us of what happens when pollution gets out of control, and no one intervenes to stop it. Water for drinking and household use from the Flint River contained lead, bacteria, and chemicals that caused illness, developmental delays in children, and death. Yet, even after the lessons learned from Flint, there are still threats to Michigan’s water supply.

Microplastics

We hear so much about plastic pollution in the ocean, but plastic also pollutes the Great Lakes and Michigan’s inner lakes, rivers, and streams. Microplastics are plastic pieces less than 5 mm long and form when larger plastics break down over time. Microplastic’s tiny size makes them a danger to fish and other aquatic life that may swallow them.

Humans take in microplastics when they eat fish contaminated with the substance. Microplastics can slip through water filtration systems, posing an additional danger to humans and animals. In addition, clothing can shed plastic during laundering, adding microplastics to the water supply.

Lake Erie Algae Bloom

Runoff from manure and fertilizers creates Lake Erie algae bloom. The algae can pollute water, making it toxic to fish. It also pollutes drinking water and prevents people from enjoying water recreation.

PFAs

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs), known as forever chemicals, have threatened Michigan’s water supply for decades. PFAs are found in food packaging, household products, the workplace, fish, and humans due to constant exposure. PFA’s pose several health risks, including liver damage, thyroid disease, and hypertension during pregnancy.

Septic Systems

In rural and suburban areas, failing septic systems can pollute groundwater with bacteria such as E. coli. Illegal septic systems that discharge wastewater into streams and creeks also contribute to a contaminated water supply.

No one wants contaminated water for drinking, cooking, or bathing. Water treatment products and systems can remove undesirable substances from your water, making it safer for drinking and household use. Take control by learning what you can do to prevent exposure to polluted water.

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at www.reynoldswater.com or call 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Reynolds Water