Livingston Reporting - page 55

Government Buildings to Become More ‘Green’

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A plan was recently released by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to help the General Services Administration (GSA) shift to a more energy-efficient real estate. The GSA is a government organization in charge of acquiring and overseeing office space for federal buildings. An annual budget of roughly $21 billion means the GSA manages the greatest portfolio of commercial office space throughout the country. Particularly, the GSA owns and leases more than 375 million square feet in roughly 10,000 buildings throughout 2,200 communities in America.

The plan outlines how GSA can transform some of these buildings into Grid-Interactive Efficient Buildings (GEBs). By establishing energy savings performance contracts along with utility service contracts, municipal customers will have the opportunity to monetarily back projects that are unqualified by national, state, and local tax incentives. Private sector customers are typically not eligible for these energy-efficient and renewable energy tax incentives otherwise.

The energy service contracts will enable the power upgrades in GSA buildings to be paid for by contractors or utilities. Then, the costs would be recuperated through the energy savings that take place throughout the life of the development.

GEBs can use smart technologies to interact with the electric grid with the goal of reducing, shedding, shifting, modulating, or generating electricity as necessary. To provide for demand flexibility, grid services, occupant needs or preferences, cost reductions, and increased resilience, GEBs can optimize their energy use in an integrated manner.

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.

Blind Woman Sees Shapes Thanks to Scientists

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A team of researchers from the University Miguel Hernandez (Spain), the Netherlands Institute of Neuroscience (Netherlands), and the John A. Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah (USA) recently published details about how they were able to successfully restore vision in a woman using a brain implant.

The scientists oversaw a series of tests with the blind volunteer to eventually recreate her vision. First, a neurosurgeon implanted a microelectrode array into her visual cortex, which was composed of 100 microneedles intended to stimulate neurons near the electrodes. The woman wore eyeglasses outfitted with a mini video camera which translated the data collected and sent to the brains electrodes. Finally, the brain simulated the image by surrounding neurons to produce white areas of light known as “phosphenes.”

A former science teacher, the woman had been blind for 16 years. No complications were seen post-op, and scientists concluded the implant did not affect brain function. 

Lines, shapes, and letters were visible to the blind woman. The researchers developed a game to help her strengthen and recognize the different phosphene shapes. Because of her extensive involvement and unique insight, the woman became a co-author of the study.

Professor Eduardo Fernandez said, “These results are very exciting because they demonstrate both safety and efficacy and could help to achieve a long-held dream of many scientists, which is the transfer information from the outside world directly to the visual cortex of blind individuals, thereby restoring a rudimentary form of sight. Although these preliminary results are very encouraging, we should be aware that there are still a number of important unanswered questions and that many problems have to be solved before a cortical visual prosthesis can be considered a viable clinical therapy.”

Professor R. A. Normann, a study co-author, said, “It could allow them to identify a person, doorways, or cars. It could increase independence and safety. That’s what we’re working toward.”

Professor P. Roelfsema, a co-author in the study, said, “This new study provides proof-of-principle and demonstrates that our previous findings in monkey experiments can be translated to humans. This work is likely to become a milestone for the development of new technologies that could transform the treatment of blindness.”

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

Distrust of Tap Water Results

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Throughout the United States, an increasing number of Americans show signs of distrust in tap water. About 60 million did not drink their tap water in 2018, according to a study published by Pennsylvania State University researchers. This marked a 40 percent increase when compared to 2014.

The drinking water crisis that emerged in Flint prompted the rise in consumers questioning tap water purity. Despite assurances that the water was safe, scientists proved them wrong by conducting independent tests showing astonishingly high lead levels.

Though the water crisis in Flint was broadly publicized, other cities have struggled with lead in their water systems as well. Washington, DC, Chicago, Newark, Toledo, Ohio, and Charleston, West Virginia, have all been publicly grappling with drinking water emergencies.

Erik Olson, senior director of the National Resources Defense Council, said, “The fundamental problem with drinking water is that we continue to live off the investments of our great-grandparents. Most of the drinking water to this day is still delivered through pipes that are many decades old and treated with WWI-era technology. PFAS, found in everything from fast food wrappers to fire-fighting foams, are called ‘permanent chemicals’ because they don’t break down easily and can build up in people and animals.”

Concrete and cast-iron pipes can be over 125 years old; there are more than 250,000 water pipe breaks in the United States annually. When these pipes fracture, pathogens can contaminate water headed right into homes.  

The toxic algae bloom in Lake Erie affected Toledo, and a coal processing plant leaked chemicals from a storage tank in Charleston. Despite efforts by city authorities, advanced filtration systems still (or other pricy solutions) cause residents to be wary of drinking tap water.

“Dark Waters” is a 2019 film analyzing attorney Robert Bilott’s 20-year legal fight against DuPont. The manufacturing giant was knowingly discharging PFAS chemicals in Parkersburg, West Virginia, which caused cancer and immune system problems in humans and animals, including livestock. These “forever chemicals” are at the top of many peoples’ lists regarding tap water contamination. PFAS are present in the blood of 99 percent of humans. Environmental Working Group released an interactive map that shows the levels of PFAS contamination throughout the United States. 

Are you concerned about the number or type of chemicals in your drinking water? Let Reynolds Water Conditioning purify your water today.

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

Wayne State University Wins Electrical Challenge

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The 2021 ELECTRI International/NECA Electrical Contracting Challenge (ECIC) was won by Wayne State University, Detroit. Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, came in second place, and the University of Toronto ranked third out of 17 teams. Nine teams ended up submitting final projects. The three finalists presented their projects to a panel of NECA judges in Nashville. After answering questions, the judges determined the winner.

The ECIC (formerly known as the Green Energy Challenge) encourages students to think innovatively and apply problem-solving skills to certain situations. This year, all teams were directed to assemble a new residence hall while attending 15 classes regarding Building Information Modeling (BIM) and estimating.

Wayne State University’s proposal focused on innovative solutions for abiding by social distance guidelines in a residence hall in Detroit’s Midtown area. Their plan included reasonably priced on-campus housing, monetary organization, and environmental support.

Iowa State proposed that a residence hall focused on security, sustainability, and an improved user experience. A ground-based photovoltaic system was an aspect of their net-zero option.

The University of Toronto suggested a residence hall aimed at providing superior lighting and security systems, along with accessibility access. A solar photovoltaic system would be implemented along with a net-zero recommendation of solar panels.

A set of construction documents and building information models were given to each team, which became the groundwork for the design and virtual production. Real-world considerations were accounted for, including cost and workforce. 

First place, Wayne State, received a $4,000 prize, while Iowa State and the University of Toronto received $3,000 and $2,000, respectively.

J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical equipment company. At J&P, we supply contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of electrical equipment such as bus plugs, ducts, panel switches, substations, and transformers. Call us at 877-844-5514 or visit us at https://www.jpelectricalcompany.com.

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

J & P Electrical Company

Bathroom Design Blunders to Avoid

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Remodeling your bathroom is a creative, exciting process that could bring out some stress and pressure. To ensure that your new bathroom will stay up-to-date through time, it’s ideal to find the best design for your lifestyle and budget.

Do you know the best placement for a toilet? Is it best to include windows? Is bigger better? All of these questions are valid – but do you know the answer for yourself? Read on to learn more.

Windows
Dark, damp bathrooms with little- to no circulation are so last season. Bathrooms are best suited for windows or a skylight, where fresh air and natural light can infiltrate the room. By making your space feel more open and lighter, the bright area will feel more comfortable.

Tucked Away
If your bathroom happens to be located in a space near a public area such as a dining room, living room, or kitchen, it might be helpful to create some separation between the rooms. If there is a straight-shot line of sight between the toilet and the kitchen table, for example, consider moving the toilet. By positioning the toilet deeper within the bathroom, rather than the first thing someone sees when they walk in, creates a feeling of a larger space.

Skip the Curb
Showers typically come with a six-inch (or so) curb, which keeps the water in the designated area. However, these curbs cause many trip-and-fall accidents in bathrooms, especially those that are wet and slippery. Curbless showers make bathrooms feel larger and cleaner. An additional bonus is that they reduce the number of tripping accidents.

Function Over Style
Great bathroom design is based on how it works rather than how it looks. First, ensure you have a more efficient, well-designed bathroom. Style can come second. Larger isn’t necessarily the best route when it comes to bathrooms. Functionality should be at the top of your list.

Do you want to remodel or build a new bathroom? Contact the bathroom contractor experts at JFC Remodeling today.

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires an improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call: 810-923-1123, e-mail: jfcllc@comcast.net, or visit us at: www.jfcremodeling.com today.

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

Jason Foldenauer Construction

Qualifying for a Mortgage While Self-Employed

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Self-employed applicants looking to purchase a home will have to fill out the same paperwork as those not self-employed, and lenders look at the same aspects such as credit score, debt, assets, income, etc. So what’s the difference between a self-employed applicant and everyone else? When working for a company or business, lenders will verify the amount – and history – of that income to determine how likely you will continue to earn it.

Lenders are typically looking for the following:

  • Income stability
  • Location and business
  • Financial strength
  • Potential future revenue

To apply for a mortgage while self-employed, you will need to provide a few documents showing a history of uninterrupted income for at least two years. Employment verification will also be examined, which can include:

  • Client lists
  • CPA verification
  • Proof of licensing or other organization
  • Insurance confirmation
  • Doing Business As (DBA) documentation

Income documentation will also need to be ready to go. It’s crucial to show steady, reliable income for the past two years. Mortgage lenders generally look for:

  • Personal tax returns (W2s)
  • Profit and loss forms (Schedule C, K-1, Form 1120S, etc.)

If you have been self-employed for less than two years, to qualify for a mortgage, you’ll need to show that your business has been active for a minimum of 12 consecutive months. Additionally, your non-self-employment history will also be verified. Your training and education might go under the microscope to ensure stability will be gained by your success.

Check your Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI), ensure your credit score is high, and separate your business expenses as well.

Self-employed and want to apply for a mortgage? Contact the experts at EB Mortgage today!

EB Mortgage is a locally-owned mortgage company with experts in new home purchase, refinancing, and commercial loans. Our wholesale rates can’t be beaten. We offer more products, more options, and more solutions. Our “3C” Process is simple: complete our pre-approval request, consider options based on your requirements, and choose the offer that suits your needs best. Call us at 866-246-0516 or e-mail contact@ebwmtg.com today.

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

EB Mortgage

What is the Metaverse?

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Facebook made headlines last week when it announced it would be hiring 10,000 people in the European Union to develop the “Metaverse.” But what is the Metaverse, exactly?

Google the term, and you’ll find various definitions. According to Wikipedia, the Metaverse is “made up of the prefix “meta” (meaning beyond) and the stem “verse” (a back-formation from “universe”); the term is typically used to describe the concept of a future iteration of the Internet, made up of persistent, shared, 3D virtual spaces linked into a perceived virtual universe. The Metaverse in a broader sense may not only refer to virtual worlds, but the Internet as a whole, including the entire spectrum of augmented reality.”

The Internet is relatively two-dimensional, but novel connectivity allows different devices and technologies to augment the world into a different reality. When you’re unable to discern the difference between reality and virtual reality, robots demonstrate three-dimensional awareness, or virtual assistants build a relationship with a human; welcome to the Metaverse.

Digital avatars (Second Life) represent the Metaverse today, where the virtual world grows and evolves based on the avatars’ actions and society within it. Other games such as Fortnite, Minecraft, and Animal Crossing exhibit user-generated content in addition to large user bases in comprehensive worlds.

Due to the virtual shift to online, based on the global Covid-19 pandemic, it’s now common to hold family reunions on Zoom, weddings on Animal Crossing, graduations on Minecraft, and virtual dressing rooms. These seemingly small yet magnificent transitions represent a changing world…one that will be here before we know it.

Business-to-robot-to-consumer relationships will soon be the new norm, with virtual assistants and robots connecting with consumers on a more personal level. People might act or behave differently in the Metaverse than in real life.

In terms of lifestyles – shopping, culture, entertainment, and so much more – the Metaverse will be a novel, changing phenomenon, much like the advent of the Internet. Get ready; it’s coming soon!

Founded in 1994, Creative Programs and Systems provides professional results for all computer needs. We design, create, and code an array of custom software programs and websites; offer top-notch digital marketing services including enhanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and paid advertising; repair and provide support for computers of both residential and professional nature; build custom systems and servers, and offer secure data backups. Need assistance or want to learn more? Call us at 810-224-5252 or e-mail info@cpsmi.com.

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

Creative Programs and Systems

Samsung Introduces Novel V8: High-End Ultrasound System

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Samsung, specifically NeuroLogica Corp., its United States healthcare subsidiary, recently introduced the V8: a high-end ultrasound system with Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology. The machine boasts improved image quality, usability, and enhanced accessibility for ultrasound technicians. 

The United States Food and Drug Administration recently cleared the V8 for commercial use. Two new AI functions include “NerveTrack,” which identifies the specific location of nerves during live scanning, and “UterineAssist,” which locates tissue changes and helps the user measure the uterus.

David Legg, NeuroLogica Vice President of Ultrasound and Digital Radiography, said, “We are pleased to launch the V8. We designed it with the user in mind, from its premium imaging engine to its ergonomic design. The ‘V’ in ‘V8’ stands for ‘versatile’ because a wide range of departments from obstetrics to radiology and orthopedics to cardiology can make use of its complex functions. We anticipate the V8 to become a flagship product within the high-end ultrasound category.”

Crystal Architecture is the foundation that runs the V8’s image clarity system. It is built with a combination of novel beamforming (CrystalBeam), advanced image handling (CrystalLive), and advanced S-Vue Single Crystal Transducers. Each one of these aspects blends to generate precise, consistent, high-resolution figures.

The V8 is stocked with exceptional technologies such as ShadowHDR, which suppresses shadows and enhances the clarity of grayscale images; S-Shearwave Imaging, which uses ultrasonic transverse elasticity to give information related to tissue stiffness when related to disease; S-Fusion technology, which grants total alignment of medical images with one or more cross-sectional studies (MRI, for example) which are instantly reconstructed; and MV-Flow, which enhances the visualization of low-flow blood flow conditions.

Various 3D, 4D, and 5D technologies are also supported by the V8, allowing the operator to see a structure with remarkable detail. The V8 can deliver a higher level of usefulness and value to many diagnostic medical ultrasound departments. 

For more information about the V8 system, visit the NeuroLogica website.

Acceletronics is an industry leader in delivering the best equipment performance and service reliability from CT Scanners and Linear Accelerators across all major brands and models. Call 610-524-3300 or visit our website: https://www.acceletronics.com.

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

Acceletronics

How to Start Homesteading

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A homestead is an isolated house on secluded acreage, which typically has other outbuildings on the property. For many preppers and survival enthusiasts alike, homesteads provide a feeling of peace and self-sufficiency. Decipher if homesteading is right for you by weighing the pros and cons. Continue reading further to learn more.

If you have a family, it’s important to think about how a homestead will affect them. Initially, it might be helpful to sit down and converse with your loved ones to discuss the future. Before committing, make sure you do adequate research and figure out what you’ll need. Read books, magazines, or watch videos to get an in-depth idea of what to expect. Homesteads require hard work and plenty of sacrifices. Crops and livestock are incredibly time-consuming and a huge responsibility. Ensure your family is willing to leap before you jump.

After you’ve decided that homesteading is for you, it is good to write down some goals or answer questions about what you should expect or how to prepare. Some questions might include whether you want to grow your own food, live off the grid, live “green,” raise a family, homeschool, etc.

Once you’ve analyzed your goals, it’s time to determine where you’d like to live. Climate, cost, land quality, state laws, water accessibility, community outreach, school engagement, and more are all critical factors. Your budget should also be a high factor for this step, as your career might shift during the transition. Keep in mind renovation costs, utilities, taxes, etc., and verify whether you can afford it.

Part of homesteading might be giving up some of those urban lifestyle choices you might have incurred through the years. Luxuries like a gym membership, wardrobe, takeout meals, or a vehicle can all easily take a back seat once homesteading is in full force. Your spending habits might be altered while more important rural necessities take priority over urban amenities.

Lastly, start small. Homesteading can be intimidating, especially when it comes to raising livestock, teaching children, or growing and harvesting crops. One step at a time is all it takes to achieve success. If you raise a few chickens, for example, those might be easier to manage than an entire flock all at once. Learning how to properly care for them by providing shelter from predators, tending to their eggs, de-worming, and feeding them a balanced diet can be overwhelming if you have too many animals. Minor experiences and lifestyle changes will make a massive difference in the end.

To stock up on food and other items for your homestead, visit Wolf Survival Gear today.

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.

Wolf Survival Gear

The Importance of Tire Rotation

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One of the most crucial yet overlooked aspects of vehicle health is the tires. Tire rotation helps diminish tread wear (grinding and rubbing that occurs while driving) by rotating each tire to a different position on the axles. Most vehicle manufacturers suggest getting the tires rotated every 7,500 miles or six months. Check your owners’ manual for specific recommendations based on your car.

Tire rotation ensures the tread wear is level, creating a steady ride by improving handling, decreasing noise and vibration, increasing tire life, and safeguarding the warranty. Tire life can be significantly extended by rotation.

Without frequent rotations, treads on tires can wear down unevenly, creating a rough and unlevel driving experience. A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) report showed deficient tread depth to be responsible for over 25 percent of all tire-related car accidents.

Some dangerous situations that can result from inadequate tire tread depth include:

Heat Buildup
While in motion, the friction created between a vehicle’s tires and the road produces heat. Treads provide space for cooling airflow to permeate and allow the tires to withstand the heat. When tire treads are reduced and can no longer allow airflow, temperatures can rise to unsafe levels. Blowouts and tread separation can cause major tire failure.

Hydroplaning
Tire treads also help control water in wet conditions to ensure the vehicle maintains a solid grip on the surface. Without enough tread depth, tires can slip across water on roads, causing a dangerous situation and rendering the driver unable to steer, control, or handle the vehicle.

Poor Traction
Snow tires are essential for colder weather conditions, as they have deep, wide, and more irregular treads than standard tires. Traction is greatly improved with the ability to grip into packed snow. The risk of spinning out or sliding on ice is vastly higher if poor traction is the culprit.

Punctures
Tires can encounter disproportionate pressure in certain areas. If left unrotated, those spots can eventually wear thin. Generally tough and able to withstand rough objects, weakened areas in tires quickly become susceptible to glass, nails, or sharp rocks. Tire rotation ensures these points are evenly spread out and do not create sensitivity points.

Do you need your tires rotated? The benefits of tire rotation far outweigh the risks of driving on vulnerable tires!

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.

Team CAMC