Livingston Reporting - page 46

Most Important Factors Currently Driving the EV Market

Electric vehicle (EV) awareness and sales have been steadily growing over the past decade. According to the latest forecast published by AutoPacific, a respected future-oriented automotive marketing research and product-consulting firm for vehicles in the U.S. market, fully electric light vehicle sales are currently estimated at their highest yet. With sales of 700,000 units forecasted for 2022, the report suggests a continuing upward trend for the next six years. But what are the factors currently driving this demand?

U.S. drivers, like others globally, certainly want the most value for their buck. Traditional economic aspects such as gas prices play a significant role; however, the recent pandemic caused consumers to change their driving habits radically. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the transportation industry in the U.S. is responsible for 55% of nitrogen-oxide emissions. Reducing greenhouse gases emitted from cars and trucks improves air quality. EV’s main components, a motor, reducer, battery, on-board charger, and electric power control unit, distinguish them from internal combustion engines, thereby eliminating the need for the engine and transmission, which exhausts fossil fuel to generate power.

Advancements in charging technology are a significant contributing factor to the increasing popularity of electric vehicles. EV solutions companies such as Enel X are committed to preserving the environment while continuously adapting to the changing needs of consumers in a digitalized world. EV chargers are breaking ground and opening energy to new uses, focusing on decarbonization, digitalization, and renewable energy.

AutoPacific’s forecast predicts total EV sales to rise to more than 900,000 in 2023, after that accelerating over the following four years, hitting 2.5 million in 2027. There is no denying that the advantages of driving and maintaining an EV vehicle, such as better driving experience and renewable electricity tariffs, will, in the long run, have a positive effect on U.S. consumers. “Green vehicles” are the natural choice for the future of driving. The stakes are growing, and EVs are pushing into the mainstream, providing consumers with faster, more connected, and user-friendly products designed to satisfy commercial fleets and at-home charging.

Looking to buy an EV charger for your home or business? State Electric Company has EV charging stations in stock and ready to ship for immediate use. Call and speak to a rep today (866) 976-8890 for more information.

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: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Don’t Be Indifferent About Your Vehicle’s Differential

Most vehicle owners understand the importance of regular oil changes and tire rotations. However, other maintenance gets put on the back burner because of cost or time constraints. Oftentimes, people ignore service recommendations until they require repair. The saying “If it’s not broken, don’t fix it” does not apply to vehicle maintenance. Without regular vehicle upkeep, parts or whole systems such as the differential can stop working without warning or become costly to fix.

 What Is Your Vehicle’s Differential?

The differential is part of the drivetrain and helps to evenly distribute vehicle power to each wheel. When a car turns, the pair of wheels rotate at different speeds. The outer wheel travels faster than the inner wheel, so as you round a corner, the differential ensures that both wheels have equal torque (the twisting force that causes wheels to rotate around an axle.) Having even torque in both wheels provides better traction while turning, keeping your car in control.  

 What Is Differential Fluid?

Differential fluid or gear fluid lubricates the gear housing compartment, which holds the bearings, clutch pads, and gears. The differential fluid prevents overheating of the friction from metal-on-metal contact. Old, grimy fluid or low differential fluid can cause rattling noises and lead to the rear wheels locking up, which can cause an accident. It can also damage the differential and associated parts, resulting in costly repairs.

Now that you better understand how hard differentials work to keep your vehicle operating safely, don’t be indifferent about it. Mechanics recommend changing your differential fluid every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. Doing so can save you from excessive repair and replacement costs. Check your vehicle’s mileage and service records to determine if it’s time for differential fluid service. If your vehicle is a four-wheel drive, your mechanic may need to service both differentials.

Drive into Team CAMC today for a differential fluid change or any other vehicle maintenance needs.

Team CAMC is your Complete Auto Maintenance Center. For over 30 years, we have followed a single guiding principle: we never push or sell services a vehicle doesn’t need. Our team of trained technicians welcomes you like family and discusses all types of oil and fluid changes offered. Critical points are reviewed through a 13-point inspection to ensure your vehicle is ready for the next adventure on the road ahead. Contact us today to schedule the professional service you deserve from a team you trust.

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

How Safe is LASIK Eye Surgery?

Over ten million Americans have had LASIK eye surgery since its FDA approval in 1999. With 96% of patients achieving their ideal vision through LASIK, it’s no surprise that the procedure has started gaining even more traction. Unfortunately, our increased screen time puts extra strain on the muscles that allow our eyes to focus, a side effect of the digital age.

There’s always a slight risk of complications, including LASIK, as with all surgeries. However, the incident rate is less than 1%. The FDA’s maximum complication rate for approval is 5% which positions LASIK as one of the safest elective surgeries available.

Working with a board-certified surgeon for LASIK procedures is the key to a successful surgery. They’ll be able to answer questions you may have about the procedure, possible side effects, and if any pre-existing conditions could interfere.

Once the surgery is complete, you’ll be given a custom aftercare routine to follow to achieve maximum benefits and promote a quick recovery. LASIK’s common temporary side effects include dry eyes, double vision, glares, and halos from solid light.

These side effects will resolve in 3 to 12 months, with the severity lessening along the way. Their impact is similar to the glare on regular glasses when driving under street lights.

LASIK’s long-term complications make up less than 1% of patients who weren’t satisfied with the outcome. In these cases, patients typically reported an over or under correction of their vision, requiring an additional visit to correct. More corneal tissue will be removed for under corrections, or enhancements can be used to fix overcorrections.

To learn more about LASIK Eye Surgery, call Rohr Eye & Laser Center today. Board-certified Dr. Jeffrey Rohr has over twenty years experience in laser vision correction and cataract surgery.

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.

Safely Using Linear Accelerators in Cancer Treatment

Linear accelerators are now widely used in treating a variety of cancers. A linear accelerator delivers directed X-rays or electrons to a tumor, destroying cancer cells while ensuring that surrounding tissue is protected. However, this type of radiation still poses risks, so how do manufacturers and operators ensure the safety of patients and operators?

All companies that manufacture linear accelerators have a strict quality control process. Systems are built to confirm that the machine will not deliver a higher dose than that prescribed by the radiation oncologist. Additionally, safety measures are designed into the linear accelerator that ensures it is impossible to turn the machine on without all the treatment conditions being met.

When a linear accelerator is installed, strict requirements must be met for the area it is situated in. For the operational staff’s safety, it is installed in a room lined with lead and concrete, and the controls for turning it on/off are situated outside of this room. Since the machine only emits radiation when turned on, this almost entirely eliminates the risk of accidental exposure.

At the start of each day and before any patient is treated, the radiation therapist makes sure that the linear accelerator is working correctly and performs checks for uniformity of the radiation intensity across the beam. In addition, a medical physicist conducts more detailed monthly and annual checks.

Another essential part of maintaining safety is keeping good records of patient exposure to the linear accelerator. All medical facilities using linear accelerators to treat cancer will ensure their staff are adequately trained and kept updated on the latest guidance on their use and safe limits for patient exposure. Reference: https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/linac#bf774c98e5ab4192886da7fd06714070

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.

Update Your Pool’s Surface

Over time, pool surfaces become dirty, stained, rough, and worn. Unbalanced pool chemicals, body oils, and faulty construction can be reasons for pool surface deterioration. Improper gunite application during construction is usually the cause of bond failure. When the bond between the gunite or concrete and the plaster fails, that can cause delamination. Blisters form on the pool’s surface, and water can get between the layers, causing further damage.

Problems with Damaged Pool Surfaces

A damaged pool surface is not just an eyesore. Problems with the surface can worsen over time, leading to algae growth, and can make being in the pool uncomfortable. Abrasive areas can cut or irritate the skin when swimmers brush against or touch the surface. Rough spots can also snag or tear swimwear. In addition, damaged surfaces in commercial pools could injure swimmers, leading to liability issues.

Reasons to Update Your Pool’s Surface

If your pool is beginning to look a little rough, it may be time for a surface update. You might live in a house where the pool is several years old, or maybe you just purchased a place where the pool was a little neglected. Whether you plan to stay in your house long-term or are looking at putting it on the market, giving your pool a facelift can change it from dull and drab to sparkling and enticing. If you own a private or public commercial pool, resurfacing can make your pool more attractive and safer for guests.

Resurfacing Options

Replastering a pool’s surface can make it look fresh and inviting. If your pool surface shows signs of deterioration, a reputable pool company specializing in replastering can make it look good again. Depending upon your budget, you can choose plaster, tile, or aggregate surfacing. Plaster is more economical and comes in attractive colors. Aggregate surfacing contains mixtures of materials, including glass beads, quartz, pebbles, and cement. Leaving the pebbles in an aggregate surface unpolished creates a bumpy texture, while polishing them yields a smooth surface. For a custom, upscale look, a tile surface is an option and lasts longer than plaster or aggregate.

Looking to refresh your pools surface before summer? Contact Pound Pool Plastering today for an estimate.

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.

Use Common Scents with These Pests

Memorable and rightly feared for that particular, pungent odor (which humans can detect 3.5 miles downwind!), skunks are recognizable by their black and white fur. Some boast, instead, a brown or gray or cream-colored coat, but all are similar enough to curl the end of your hair if you meet one unexpectedly on an evening stroll.

Their omnivorous diet of insects and some lesser pests may make them valuable to your area. Unfortunately, the skunk is one of four wild animals known to be a primary carrier of the rabies virus (others being: bats, raccoons, and foxes), so a sizeable distance is desired.

While that infamous scent can stick to a person, clothing, a dog, or a car, the silver lining is that a skunk utilizes it only when they —or their kits, as the babies are called— are threatened. This means that as soon as you spot one of these striped rascals, the safest exit is a slow and quiet one.

Not one to blindside their victim before causing discomfort, skunks will often warn before they spray. They stamp their feet, hiss, make short forward charges, and the spotted skunk goes up into a handstand. Despite very poor eyesight, capping out at about 3 meters, their aim with their spraying-glands is precise, also with a 3-meter range.

A skunk in the neighborhood is likely to be smelled before being seen. Skunks do leave signs, of course, such as dug up shallow holes to forage grubs, turned over garbage cans, mysteriously missing pet food, and damage to the lower leaves of garden crops as they grab any low-hanging fruit.

To deter these rascals, properly seal garbage cans (metal cans with lids that snap into place are best), clean up any picnic scraps, and fill or seal holes in the yard, especially under elevated sheds, slabs under porches, and crawl spaces. If the discouraging tactics don’t work, it is time to call in a professional pest removal company for assistance.

Removing Skunk Odor:

Skunk odor is an oil-based pheromone mixed with sulfur-based chemicals produced from the musk glands on either side of the skunk’s anus. Once this oil-based liquid gets on a surface, it is very difficult to remove; some attempts may actually spread the oils around if done improperly. Below is our dependable solution, comprised of common household products, that we recommend in treating sprayed pets.

  • 1 liter (or quart) of white vinegar or 3% hydrogen peroxide (peroxide may cause bleaching)
  • 1/4 cup of baking soda
  • 1 tsp. dish detergent (this is a degreaser and will help break down the oils)

This solution can be used on fabrics or animals. Use straight bleach to remove smells on outdoor structures, such as foundations, decks, or ground.

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Creature Control is a family and veteran-owned, locally operated pest and animal management company servicing several counties throughout lower Michigan. Our technicians are licensed, certified, and experienced in providing effective pest control, preventative maintenance, cleanup, and repairs. We offer you peace of mind as your all-inclusive wildlife and insect remediation specialists. Call us at 800-441-1519 or send us a message today.

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

Why Does DIY Pest Control Fail?

Most people know that there are some pests that they just can’t control by themselves, such as mosquitos or bedbugs. Mosquitoes don’t necessarily breed on your property, and the only good way to control them is with a fog treatment. On the opposite end of control, bedbugs are off-putting and resistant enough to over-the-counter remedies that most people end up calling a professional right away (which is the right decision).  But what about insects that many people try and treat without a second thought, such as wasps, ants, or stinkbugs?  Every grocery store carries a line of insecticides, or even traps, all claiming to “kill on contact,” or “kills *given pest* instantly,” but when used by the average consumer, they often do little to nothing to stem the tide of insects. What is the difference between generally available products and those that our technicians use to control pest issues?

The main difference is in the products’ degree of strength and application. Because of the wide availability, over-the-counter products must have a weaker concentration of an active ingredient, rendering the mixture that much less potent. This is due to safety concerns; after all, your average consumer isn’t going to be certified by the state to apply pesticides, and thus isn’t going to be thinking about personal protection while using the product, nor about the storage of the product, or even how the product works against the target pest. This last factor is often why DIY pest control can fail.

Over-the-counter pesticides are nearly always contact-based products. They work by disrupting nervous systems and clogging their breathing spiracles (the tiny holes in the thorax and abdomen through which insects “breathe.”) This is great for killing the individual insect that the product touches but does not work nearly as well, spreading the product from insect to insect, which is often where most of the control happens.  A nest of yellow jackets in your siding, for example, can be sprayed with a can of wasp-killer, but this will only kill the insects that are present at the time of treatment, and even then, only the ones that are directly touched by the project, as it dissipates faster than it can spread from insect to insect. To effectively treat a nest of yellow jackets with a product like that, you will need to treat it several times a day for several days, and even then, it may not work long-term. Ant products work the same way, often to less effect, as ant colonies have many times the numbers of a yellow jacket nest.

Pesticides used by companies like ours are often a combination of contact, instant-acting aerosols, and long-lasting dusts. The aerosols are used against larger pests (such as bald-faced hornets) or large colonies of aggressive insects (like nests of yellow jackets) that need to be killed instantly or run the risk of harming a technician. After the initial application, nearly every area is treated with a special dust that coats the entire region. This dust takes care of insects that return to the site after treatment, as it lasts much longer than the dripping liquid left behind from sprays. Aerosol and dust pesticides for specialized equipment are not always available for consumer use. Used in combination, these two types of products effectively take care of insects instantly and over time, leading to long-lasting control and protection that an over-the-counter spray cannot emulate. Liquid pesticides are also used in distinct concentrations, which are helpful for prevention rather than immediately killing an existing colony, as these bind to the material on and around your home and affect insects looking to establish a colony. Cans of products you can buy at a grocery store simply don’t have the longevity and control options that are more specialized.

Of course, under some circumstances, over-the-counter remedies can work just fine; but if you’re having trouble with a stubborn nest or colony of ants, don’t hesitate to give Creature Control a call. We have the products, tools, and experience required to control your pest problem. Contact us today to schedule an inspection.

Transmissible Diseases Carried by Rodents

Beyond sneaking into our residences and breaking into our food supply, rodents are also a significant concern because they can transmit several diseases to humans through waste and other forms of contamination. Mice and rats can carry more than 35 different diseases, so getting rid of them at the earliest sign of an invasion is imperative. Read on to learn about some of the diseases they carry.

Salmonellosis
Caused by the bacterium salmonella, this disease can be spread through contaminated food. The bacteria causes food poisoning; symptoms of which include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain.

Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS)
This potentially life-threatening disease spreads through deer mouse waste by means of direct contact with urine or feces, consumption of contaminated foods, or bite. This virus can take one- to five weeks to completely develop symptoms, which typically manifest through fever, muscle aches, fatigue, headaches, dizziness, chills, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, or other abdominal issues. The virus can also become fatal if not properly treated.

Rat-Bite Fever
This disease is caused by Streptobacillus moniliformis and Spirillum minus bacterium. It spreads to humans through contact with an infected rodent or eating contaminated food. Symptoms generally manifest three- to ten days after exposure and can include fever, headaches, rash, vomiting, and muscle pain. Antibiotics can cure this ailment.

Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis (LCM)
A viral infection caused by contact with rodents, this can be transmitted via a mouse’s urine or feces, touching its nesting materials, or a bite. Symptoms come in two phases which include fever, muscle aches, lack of appetite, headache, nausea, and vomiting to start. Then, those infected can experience stiff neck, drowsiness, confusion, sensory disturbances, motor abnormalities, paralysis, and brain inflammation. It’s not usually fatal but can cause hospitalization or permanent neurological damage.

Bubonic Plague
The most famous rodent-caused sickness due to its deadly effect on humans during the Middle Ages, the bubonic plague (also known as Black Death), is transmitted through rats. Fleas with the bacterium Yersinia pestis infect the rats and can also infect humans through handling a contaminated animal, fluid, or tissue. Symptoms include fever, headache, chills, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes. Antibiotics can treat this disease quickly, but it can be fatal if left untreated.

Tularemia
Caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis, this disease can spread through rabbits, flea and tick bites, airborne dust particles, and contaminated water. The most common symptom of tularemia includes skin ulcers or swollen lymph nodes. It is usually curable through antibiotics but can be life-threatening.

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Do you have a rodent issue? Contact Northern Pest and let our pros handle the problem today.

Northern Pest is a local, family-owned and operated insect and wild animal control company spanning six counties in Michigan’s central upper peninsula. We’ll help you find the least-invasive and most cost-effective plan to handle any irritating pest problem affecting your home or business. We are licensed and insured to provide pest control services, building maintenance, and repair work caused by wildlife damage. As a comprehensive animal and insect control company, Northern Pest is honored to give our customers peace of mind by providing solutions for troublesome wildlife. Contact us today at www.northernpest.com or call 906-553-4841 to learn more.

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

Emergency Flares and Water: Do They Mix?

Most flat tire or vehicle survival kits contain chemical roadside emergency flares. These invaluable additions are bold, bright, and noticeable in most emergencies, but what about rain?

The question of whether these flares are waterproof is a valid one. Thankfully, most roadside chemical flares are water-resistant. This means they will work if exposed to a drizzle of rain or a slight amount of water. However, if they are immersed in water, chemical flares will likely become destroyed or unusable.

Chemical flares are designed to function reliably, even when exposed to moisture. Since they are typically used all day or night, emergency flares are coated with a heavy wax silicone to prevent water from entering the casing and reaching the chemicals inside. Moisture exposure will deteriorate the flares’ ability to stay lit but shouldn’t put the fire out completely.

On the other hand, maritime flares are designed for wet or rough weather conditions, carried onboard boats or other ocean vessels. These flares can be dunked, soaked, or splashed (as long as it’s not for an extended period) and still be expected to function. As a bonus, they can be thrown onto the water’s surface while staying lit.

If fire is out-of-the-question, an increasingly popular flare alternative is battery-powered strobe lights. Though the batteries can deplete, most are designed with a rugged environment in mind. They are generally built to be water-resistant but can short-circuit if submerged in water.

 Glow sticks are another fireless option, which are nearly impenetrable by water. They are not as bright as fire flares or strobe lights, but they are still handy and come in various colors. Glow sticks are non-toxic, generate no heat, and are entirely safe for emergency use.

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for all your prepping and survival needs. We are a 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 or e-mail us today for more information.

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

Drawing Solar Panel Energy at Night

Solar panels work with help from the sun, which provides light converted to power. Photovoltaic cells absorb the sun’s energy, converting it to DC electricity, and a solar inverter converts DC into AC electricity to use throughout the building.

Optimism is growing around how solar panels can continue to generate a substantial amount of energy during nighttime. With widespread implications for solar panels of all kinds, this hybrid solar panel model could utilize daytime and nighttime power.

Dubbed NSP (Night Solar Panels), these novel panels were created by Tristan Deppe and Jeremy Munday from the University of California Davis. In their paper, “Nighttime Photovoltaic Cells: Electrical Power Generation by Optically Coupling with Deep Space,” the team points out the current drawback with solar energy only harnessing energy during daylight hours.

Their research shows that NSPs could emit radiation via infrared that would then create electron-hole pairs. Operating differently than conventional solar panels, NSPs still share some core elements.

Professor Munday said, “A regular solar cell generates power by absorbing sunlight, which causes a voltage to appear across the device and for current to flow. In these new devices, light is instead emitted, and the current and voltage go in the opposite direction, but you still generate power. You have to use different materials, but the physics is the same.”

For now, NSPs are not as powerful as conventional solar panels, but their 24/7 duration offsets that disadvantage. Munday and his fellow researchers are in the prototype stage. Soon they will convert their theory into a functional, live setting.

In developing nations where a high amount of sunshine shines bright, the opportunity for solar panels to provide a solution to communities is high. Solar power is low-cost, easy to install, and is long-term. There are plenty of third-world nations that do not have a lot of sunshine; NSPs would be a monumental addition to these areas. 

Though NSPs won’t be popping up today or tomorrow, the transformative effect they could have in the future gives a bright outlook to the possibilities.

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.