Livingston Reporting - page 97

Is It A Good Idea to Purchase A Pre-Owned Linear Accelerator?

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems


Not every facility needs to purchase a new linear accelerator.  There are many times where a slightly used LINAC will serve the purpose of the facility at a fraction of the cost of a new one.  Some facilities however, benefit from the purchase of new equipment.  It really just depends on a number of variables to determine if a used, new, or refurbished linear accelerator is the solution for your facility.

When a facility needs the newest technology on the market, it is obvious a used or refurbished LINAC will not benefit them.  This is also the case if you are not looking to replace the machine anytime soon.  A brand new or almost new linear accelerator is a better option for facilities that don’t want to replace their machine in the next ten to fifteen years and are looking for the latest and greatest technology. 

The struggle between buying new, refurbished, and used radiation oncology equipment is a struggle many facilities face.  It is probably important to note however, that the minute you use a new linear accelerator it becomes used.  So not every used machine is “used” to the same extent.  Used and refurbished linear accelerators can be suitable for facilities under certain circumstances including:

  • When your facility is treating less than 8 to 10 patients a day, the revenue you are producing will not sustain the expense of a new machine.
  • Areas where reimbursement is low, and your clinic needs to be profitable to continue providing treatment may be better suited to purchase a used or refurbished unit.
  • The machine will be used in a limited capacity and doesn’t necessarily benefit from the latest technologies.  These circumstances may include using the machine for research, treating animals, or non-medical, industrial purposes.
  • Your facility will be able to afford the latest and greatest in the next couple of years but just can’t without first building a profitable practice.
  • You are opening a new medical center and don’t have the resources to secure financing on a new machine. 
  • You are moving to a new location, can’t afford downtime, and need to be able to treat patients during the process and currently only have one machine.
  • If your facility needs a back up to prevent downtime in patient care during maintenance and repairs on your main LINAC.
  • A new facility is being built but you need a temporary way to treat patients.
  • When the hardware aspect of treatment is not as important as the software.  Used and refurbished equipment can have updated software installed when your budget doesn’t allow for both upgraded software and hardware.

Obviously, brand new, state of the art equipment when purchasing linear accelerators and CT scanners is something all facilities desire, it is not always the most practical situation.  Purchasing used equipment doesn’t mean that your facility is operating with technology that is necessarily out of date.  Often newer style equipment can be acquired with little use.  It is important to remember just because it is used it doesn’t mean it is used up.  Used simply means that at one time or another it has been in use for patient care.  It could be the latest Varian model used for treatment in a facility briefly.  Used equipment can often save facilities a great deal of money in machine costs and financing.

Radparts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts for Linear Accelerators and Radiation Oncology equipment.  Radparts provides high quality, user friendly, low cost parts support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. More information can be found at https://www.radparts.com/.



RadParts

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Kitchen Organization When Remodeling Is Not An Option Provides Optimum Flow

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

As we are cleaning our homes this spring many of us will be looking for ways to increase functionality in our spaces, especially in our kitchens.  If a kitchen remodel isn’t in your future, organizing the existing space to optimize the flow is your next best bet for enhancing the purpose of the space.  Optimal flow comes from creating usable space.  It can be a little overwhelming at first, but the results will create a kitchen that is flows at peak capacity.

Don’t think you need to empty out your entire kitchen and start from scratch.  All that will do is make the process seem impossible.  Small changes overtime will create a kitchen space that is optimal for day to day life and family gatherings.

Tips to Improve the Flow of Your Kitchen 

  • Incorporate Baskets and Wire Holders

Any type of basket or holder that keeps things in one space make a space more organized.  Labeled baskets for fruits and vegetables that don’t have to live in the refrigerator are practical and stylish.  Kitchens are often the central gathering location for kids and homework.  Having a basket labeled for each of your children stored under a kitchen island are not only aesthetically pleasing they are practical for keeping homework centrally located.  Baskets are fun and functional.

  • Charging Stations

Creating a single spot where electronics can be charged prevents counter clutter.  Charging stations can be installed inside a drawer with the installation of a smart drawer.  Ports are now sold specifically for this purpose however a simple power strip with USB ports can be used as well.  Using a drill, you will want to put a hole in the back of the drawer.  Thread the electrical end of the power strip out the back and plug it into your electrical outlet.  Using Velcro attach the back of the power strip to the back of the drawer.  It’s really that simple to remove the clutter of charging electronics from your counter. 

  • Spice Rack

It is no longer optimal to use valuable counter space to house a bulky spice rack.  Organizing spices can be done in a number of ways.  If you have unlimited kitchen drawers, creating a spice drawer using tightly sealed spice containers creates easy access to spices.  Another popular option is to install a hanging wire racks attached to an upper cabinet door to neatly store spices.  Adding magnets to the back of spice containers allows for simple storage of spices on the side of a refrigerator.  There are a number of ways that homeowners can replace those bulky spice racks for smaller space savers. 

  • Baking Cabinet

For bakers having a space dedicated to baking supplies is super helpful to increasing the function of your space.  These items are used frequently and thus should be organized and accessible. Turning a cabinet into a space that houses everything you needs is made easy with the installation of key hooks.  These hooks store measuring cups and spoons without taking up valuable “floor” space in the cabinet.  Mixing accessories can also be hung on hooks to keep them up off the base of the counter.  Stack mixing bowls so that smaller bowls nestle into larger ones.  Standing mixers can be accommodated by moving the shelf upward.  This space will be a favorite for the bakers in your house.

  • Pantry

Pantry shelves are often cluttered and there is not a lot of organization going on, but it doesn’t have to be.  With the addition of a few lazy susans, labeled wicker baskets, wire baskets, and clear containers, your pantry can be transformed.  Salad toppings, snacks, and more can all be grouped together and placed in a labeled wicker basket.  If you are preparing a salad you can simply remove the basket with salad toppings.  If the kids are looking for a snack instead of rummaging through granola boxes the snacks are all in one spot.  Wire baskets allow for easy can storage and allow you to see what is in each basket.  Lazy susans allow you to make use of the corner space in a pantry where you can organize oils, syrup, peanut butter, and items that need to stand. 

Small appliances can also easily be stored in the pantry now because you have space now that the clutter is eliminated.  Don’t forget the floor also has purpose.  Using plastic show mats is a great way to protect your floor.  By putting small felt pads on the bottom mats can easily be moved about as well. 

  • Under the Sink Organization

Small plastic baskets, hooks, and a tension rod can transform the space under your sink.  If you are like so many of us, finding the spray you need is like wading through a trench.  The spray you need is always in the back and is only able to be accessed by removing everything else.  Installing a tension rod allows you to hang sprays for easy access.  Kitchen brushes can be hung by installing small hooks and baskets can be used to separate and organize extra sponges, plastic gloves, and additional cleaning supplies.  Baskets are easy to remove so there is never a need to remove everything to get the one chemical you need.

Even without remodeling your kitchen you can create a flow that is practical and improves the functionality of the space.  Simple changes to the way we use the space can completely transform any kitchen.

JFC Remodeling is a full-service licensed contractor out of Howell, Michigan.  Specializing in kitchen and bathroom renovations, flooring upgrades, and home remodeling services.  More information can be found online at https://jfcremodeling.com/.

Jason Foldenauer Construction

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Preventive Maintenance Keeps Equipment Running Longer

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems


Heavy machinery used in manufacturing requires continual maintenance in order to keep it running at peak efficiency.  Poorly maintained machinery will run poorly and breakdowns cost money not only for repairs but also in downtime.  When machinery is not maintained, safety is compromised. 

Professional Tips for Maintaining Machinery and Electrical in Manufacturing

  • Keep Up to Date with Operator Training

Most large scaled machinery will have multiple operators.  Manufacturing facilities running three shifts will have operators on each shift as well as others to fill in when necessary.  When using any tracking software for machine maintenance it is important that operator training for equipment is part of the checklist. Correct machine operation is critical in maintain machinery. 

Operators should be trained in visual inspection as well.  When a piece of equipment is first introduced into a manufacturing facility it should be thoroughly inspected by the operators who will be using the machine. This is also a good time to provide critical operator training and to put in place a training schedule.  When machinery is updated all operators need to be included in additional training. Not only is there employee turnover to account for, but overtime operators will become relaxed which will lead to breakdowns in proper techniques. On going training helps to eliminate this. 

Equipment manuals should be kept up to date and revised as needed.  These manuals should be kept within the vicinity of the equipment so that operators have access to them when needed.  A shorter manual can be used for ease of reference on common everyday operations. 

  • Apply Lubricants Liberally and Frequently

Manufacturing components move all the time.  Lubricants can reduce the friction that is caused from all of these moving parts.  A regular maintenance schedule involving lubrication not only extends the machines lifespan and the longevity of the electrical components and parts working within the machine.

Lubrication is one of the most importance aspects in machine maintenance and should be checked on a regular basis.  It is critical that signs of excess oil and grease build-up are tracked as well as cracks in oil seals and leaks.

Using the correct lubricant for the machine and the components within is important.  Be sure to use the oil and grease that is recommended by manufacturers when lubing up electrical components. Checking lubricants helps in the diagnosis of problems in large machinery.  Experts can analyze the particles in used oil.  The makeup of the contaminants can indicate the part of the machine that is suffering from excess wear and breakdown.

  • Examine Machinery for Signs of Wear

Machinery in manufacturing facilities often operates at high temperatures, with vibration, shock, and friction that contribute to the overall breakdown and wear of heavy machinery and electrical components and parts within.

  • Machine vibrations come from belts and gears that are not in alignment.
  • Shock comes from accidents and poor operation techniques.
  • Increased temperatures come from extensive use, friction, improper lubrication, and worn our parts.
  • The age of key machine components can cause deterioration. Belts can warp, seals can crack and dry out, bolts loosen and stretch.  The age of large scaled machinery needs to be tracked and monitored to avoid a compromise to the safety of your machine.   

When you notice that moving parts in your heavy machinery is beginning to wear and tear it is important to perform necessary maintenance as soon as possible.  The replacement of worn parts is essential to the health of your equipment.

  • Keep the Facility Clean and Maintain Clean Equipment

Heavy machinery and the facility that contains it should be kept free of contaminants and as clean as possible.  Seals and filters should be examined to ensure they are in good order.  It is crucial that manufacturing equipment and the components within are kept tidy.

  • Maintain a Record of Maintenance and Repairs

Record keeping of repairs and maintenance on equipment is beneficial for so many reasons.  Over time patterns will emerge and you will be able to anticipate when components will fail.  Detailed records of preventive maintenance such as checking fluids, electrical systems, and components within.  Moving parts are especially important in maintenance. 

  • Moving components create friction.  These items need to be inspected for wear and replaced on a regular basis. 
  • Gears need to be lubricated often. 

Following these steps will extend the lifespan of manufacturing equipment and heavy machinery.  With the exuberant costs associated with large scaled equipment and machines, increasing your ROI with regular maintenance and replacement of electrical components you can extend the usable time of these pieces. 

J & P Electrical Company is a full-service electrical company that supplies contractors, end users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We purchase a wide range of electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bud ducts, panel switches, substations, and transformers.  More information can be found at https://www.jpelectricalcompany.com



J & P Electrical Company

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How Do I Make My Home Less Desirable for Raccoons?

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Are you wondering why your home seems to be a regular hangout for raccoons?  You may be attracting them without even realizing it.  Just like they are portrayed in cartoons, raccoons are smart, sneaky, and peculiar.  Their sweet little masks and ringed tails make this particular nuisance wildlife pest hard to be mad at for getting in your trash.  Let’s face it, raccoons and baby raccoons are downright adorable.  If you start noticing an influx of raccoons around your home, you will want to call in the experts at Creature Control to start putting in place active prevention measurements.  We can help you make your home less desirable for these adorable but less than desirable critters.

Raccoons Basic Survival Needs

Raccoons are driven by their basic survival needs: shelter, food, and water.  Obviously, our homes create the perfect environment for them to thrive.  They are insane climbers that can easily scale the side of the house, venture over a fence, and shrink themselves to slink into your crawl space.  They will find water wherever it is from decorative fountains and ponds to leaking pipes and water dishes for outdoor pets.  As much as they seek out water, it is really food that they are after. 

Opportunists Within the Animal Kingdom

Forging for food is typical for raccoons.  They actively seek out living areas that are near water where they can have easy access to unlimited fish, frogs, snails, clams, and all the goodies the water brings with it.  They are also happy snacking on bird eggs, insects, gardens, and sometimes other dead carcasses.  They aren’t picky eaters, they are opportunists.  If they find an available food source, they will happily make it their own.    From fruits and veggies in your garden to the dog food that you leave available for your pup, they will eat it all.  Raccoons also love a solid trash can meal.  If your garbage can doesn’t have a secure lid, raccoons are sure to have enjoy the leftover buffet your trash contains. 

Humane Raccoon Trapping and Relocation

Once you have called in a pest control specialist to have raccoons trapped and relocated it is important to follow the advice to prevent another one from relocating.  As homeowners it is our job to prevent raccoons from making our homes their comfortable retreat.  With the help of nuisance wildlife removal companies, you can create a space that doesn’t offer raccoons a comfortable space to live in.  

To keep raccoons away it is important that you:

  • Keep your yard clean.  If you have fruit or nut trees present, make sure to remove them on a regular basis.
  • Install motion activated sprinklers within vegetable gardens.
  • Secure the trash can lid with extra bungee cords if the lid is not tightly secured.
  • Try not to leave your pets water and food outside when you are not home.
  • If you store birdseed or pet food in the garage or a shed, make sure the lids are tightly sealed. Prevent raccoons from gaining access by sealing up even the smallest access point.
  • Inspect the perimeter of your homes crawl space and roof line to seal up locations where raccoons could enter.  They can shrink to fit into even the smallest of spaces; it is best to use foam insulation to fill in even the smallest of holes.
  • Wood piles are perfect dens for raccoons.  If at all possible, seal wood in a shed or far from your home to prevent them from creating a comfortable home.

Raccoons are cute and can be quite charismatic but the last thing you want is for them to make your home their own.  If you start noticing your home is becoming a hotel for raccoons it is time to call in the professionals at Creature Control.  Our wildlife control professionals are trained in humane trapping and relocation services.  We offer free inspections!  Once we resolve the root of your pest problem, we will go about providing solutions to prevent their return. 

Creature Control is an all-inclusive pest and wildlife control company servicing over twenty counties in southern Michigan. As a one-stop-shop for all your nuisance wildlife needs we provide pest removal and control for all animals and all insects as well as a wide range of restoration services relating to animal damage.  More information can be found at https://www.creaturecontrol.net.

Creature Control

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Keep Your Pool Safe and Secure By Installing An Aluminum Fence From iFenceUSA

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Owning a swimming pool can be a lot of fun however, it also can be a huge responsibility.  In ground swimming pools are a backyard luxury that creates a vibe like no other.  It is a great attraction when entertaining, for relaxation, and is beneficial for those of us seeking a fun way to exercise.  Although we all think of the enjoyment a pool will bring, it is important that we also recognize the associated dangers and work to prevent them.

Accidental drowning is the leading cause of death in young children.   The installation of a swimming pool fence and self-closing, self-latching gate are critical in preventing access to the area without adult supervision.  Having a fence installed around the perimeter of your pool helps to keep your family and pets from getting into the water when you are not around.  Having these layers of protection in place can decrease the risks involved with owning a swimming pool.

There are two main types of fencing that people talk about when discussing pool fencing, permanent and removable.  For most homeowners permanent fencing is a better choice. Removable fencing is an option many seniors without children or grandchildren choose as it is easily put in place when visitors stop by but doesn’t need to be present at all times. Removable fencing is often seen around swimming pools that are enclosed by a screened in porch.  Permanent fencing is a must for homes where children and pets are present.  This ensures that the fence is always in place and doesn’t leave room for error.  We are all guilty of turning our backs when we think our children are safely occupied.  It takes one second for a tragedy that is completely avoidable to occur. 

When it comes to permanent fencing for your pool area, metal fencing is often chosen.  Although wrought iron and steel were once popular options, aluminum pool fencing has taken over in popularity.  Not only is aluminum swimming pool fence highly durable, it is affordable, easy to install, lightweight, and practically maintenance free.  It not only comes in several colors for pool owners to choose from but also a variety of styles as well as having customizable features that are easily integrated.  Aluminum pool fence is a great choice for homeowners looking for fencing that meets B.O.C.A. pool safety standards.  Specifically, aluminum pool fencing comes with matching aluminum pool gates that have integrated self-closing, self-latching hardware which is required in order to meet safety regulations.   

When purchasing an aluminum fence for the perimeter of your pool it is important to research the specific safety regulations in place by your local government as well as your HOA if you are part of one.  Most laws specify that perimeter pool fencing must be at least four feet in height.  There are also regulations in regard to the placement of pickets so that the fence that is in place is unable to be scaled.  Kids can be quite creative when they are going after something they want.  The goal of the fence is to prevent that.  If you know you have a curious kid, it may be in your best interest to purchase aluminum fence panels that are taller than the recommended 4 feet. 

As previously mentioned, having an aluminum gate is not enough when it comes to pool safety.  Gates must include hardware that automatically locks upon closing with hardware in place that allows the fence to close without manual intervention.  Again, you know your children the best. If you think they have figured out how to use the mechanisms on the fence it is time to add additional safety measures.  Safety is all about the layers of protection we add. 

To ensure your backyard swimming pool is both entertaining and safe install an aluminum swimming pool fence while you are having the pool is bring installed.  There are so many affordable styles, colors, and options that will ensure your backyard oasis is aesthetically pleasing secure!

iFenceUSA

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Removing a Linear Accelerator

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Many times, when a facility gets a new or refurbished linear accelerator, they are replacing an older piece of equipment that needs to be removed.  If you have ever worked with a LINAC you can only imagine how difficult the removal process can be.  Not only is it a large piece of machinery you are dealing with the removal of a highly sophisticated machine that is quite expensive.  On top of all of that it is important to remember you are working with in a medical facility that is busy treating patients. Removing a linear accelerator, CT scanner, or any other large scaled machinery is not a simple task by any means. 

Through careful planning, companies like Acceletronics can minimize the hassle when removing and installing linear accelerators.  Our team of experts specialize in the removal of linear accelerators.   Our staff with guide you throughout the process to ensure your facility continues to run as expected and that the disruption to patient care is minimal.  

First things first, safety is the top priority!  Not only do we want to keep our employees safe, we are continually improving safety techniques to ensure safety for all.  Here are some of the ways that we work to establish a safe environment when removing large scaled medical equipment like linear accelerators.

  • Areas that will be accessed in removal of the linear accelerator are all blocked off.  This includes areas of the medical facility, parking areas, and side streets when necessary. 
  • Accurate measurements are taken to prevent any emergency vault door removal.  Removing the vault doors poses a risk to personnel and patients within the facility.  Measuring, planning, and careful execution prevents this risk.
  • Water, lock and tag power is all shut off to the treatment room where your linear accelerator is location.  This prevents injury to the rigging team.  These tasks are completed by facility personnel who are familiar with the utility systems and helps to prevent dangerous mistakes that can happen when individuals unfamiliar to the location are tasked to complete utility shut down.
  • A plan is always in place for the handling of any materials deemed hazardous. 

Many times, relocation of linear accelerators can occur on weekends or after hours which will help to eliminate any disruptions that may occur.  It is important to work with companies that adhere to health protocols of your facility when working with you.  The goal is to minimize risk to patients while ensuring quality patient care. 

Budgeting is another area that the professionals at Acceletronics work with clients. Purchase and removal of LINAC systems is not inexpensive by any means.  In order to help mitigate the costs and ensure you are not spending more than you need to when removing a linear accelerator, we offer you tips.

  • Planning and transparency is needed from the beginning to the end of the equipment removal process.  In order to prevent confusion, errors in communication, or logistic issues that can increase costs it is crucial to have everyone working on the project in the know.  Every detail, every change, and every hurdle needs to be thoroughly addressed with each and every person involved in the process.  This will save you money.  Preventing errors with detailed planning and complete transparency will keep expenditures within the quoted allotment. 
  • When planning the time when the equipment will be removed choose a period that will cause the least amount of disruption to the operations of your facility.  Although it may cost a bit more to have the removal take place on the weekends or a holiday it is less costly then a disruption to patient care.
  • Often companies can get credit for machines that are still in operational condition.  Credit for working parts can decrease the cost of removal.  The savings that is passed on to you will be determined by the year of the LINAC, the make, model, and condition. 

Finally, the execution of removing the systems comes into play.  After some major pre-planning and all of the pieces of the puzzle working to complete a whole picture the removal process can occur.

As previously mentioned, accurate measurements are a key element is removal.  Costly errors occur when measuring is not precise. Before we arrive on site, facilities will give us a complete rig info sheet.  This will ensure that there are zero surprises when moving the LINAC through doorways.

It is also important that a pathway clear of obstruction is obtained when removing a linear accelerator.  Facilities should plan for the removal of furniture and unnecessary items in order to create a barrier free exit. 

After the machine is removed it needs to be transported.  It is important that a loading area is prepared to allow for this to easily occur.  Most often a semi is needed.  To ensure the semi has access to the loading area it is crucial that the area is sectioned off and that the exit is kept clear.  The smoother this process goes the less it will cost your facility. 

If you have any accessories or additional equipment that needs to be removed it is important to plan ahead.  It is less expensive to remove the main piece of equipment and accessories all at one time instead of completing the removal in multiple steps.  The more steps involved in the process the more costly it tends to be.  Accommodating removal of everything in one day is the least expensive way in which to execute medical equipment removal.

Once the room is clear of the LINAC and depending on your plan, the next steps can start to unfold.  There are many factors involved in coordinating the removal of a linear accelerator.  It is important to hire the right team to achieve your vision, and we think the professionals at Acceletronics can help! We have years of experience in the removal and installation of new and refurbished linear accelerators.  Our team specializes in CT scanners and linear accelerators and would be delighted to partner with you in purchasing, removal, installation, servicing, and more. 

As an independent LINAC service company, Acceletronics is dedicated to delivering the best equipment performance and services for linear accelerators and CT scanners across all major brands and models, as well as new and refurbished LINAC systems for sale.  More information can be found online at https://www.acceletronics.com/.



Acceletronics

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A Little Preparation Goes A Long Way In Maintaining Linear Accelerators

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Linear accelerators, LINAC, are large scaled medical devices that deliver external radiation in the form of a beam to cancerous tumors in order to shrink them.  As with most medical equipment, LINAC systems are expensive which is a barrier that many facilities face when purchasing a new or refurbished unit. 

With the expense of these large scaled systems it is important to make sure they are properly maintained and that you have access to linear accelerator parts for repair as needed.  Medical facilities can contract with companies that specialize in maintenance and repair services of LINAC systems such as Acceletronics or have on staff a team of professionals whose job it is to provide these services for their equipment.  There are advantages and disadvantage to both options, facilities choose based on their budget and facility needs.

Linear accelerators have evolved over the years. LINAC machines no longer only provide external radiation beams for treatment.  Major advancement in this technology include onboard imaging systems and portal dosimetry. Such complex systems require biomedical and clinical engineers to not only understand what these machines do but also how they are operated.  Even with advanced training, until the engineer has hands on experience it is difficult to truly understand how the machine functions. 

Not only is the linear accelerator expensive but the expertise to use and understand the machine is costly as well.  This again is an issue that faces many medical facilities.  These two factors alone make up the most significant aspect of expense faced by facilities when deciding on the purchase of equipment. 

All linear accelerators are not created equally and therefore when replacing an existing system there will be a significant cost to not only bring new equipment in but also the training on the individual piece of equipment.  One way to combat this is to replace existing LINAC with identical refurbished linear accelerators. 

We have discussed a lot about the expense of these units however there is also significant revenue to be gained by having external radiation treatment available to patients seeking treatment for cancerous tumors.  It is important for facilities to make sure these machines are functioning at peak capabilities at all times.  Downtime not only impacts revenue but also patient care.  In order for patients to have effective treatment for their tumors it is important they are able to strictly follow the treatment schedule laid out by their radiation team.  If equipment is down this is not possible.

To ensure that patient care and revenue is not affected by machine downtime it is crucial to maintain equipment.  Machine maintenance includes repairs in anticipation of failure.  If a parts failure is eminent based on previous experience it behooves the facility to purchase the LINAC replacement part ahead of time so that service can be provided around patient’s treatment schedules.  This allows facilities to schedule downtime to prevent unplanned downtime. 

Radparts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts for Linear Accelerators and Radiation Oncology equipment.  Radparts provides high quality, user friendly, low cost parts support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. More information can be found at https://www.radparts.com/.

RadParts

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Getting Married

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Let’s face it, there isn’t a perfect time of year to get married.  Each of the four seasons offers a laundry list of positives and negatives.  Today our wedding consultants dive into considerations that couples getting married in the spring face. 

Spring Weather

The weather throughout the spring is highly unpredictable.  Many parts of the country have beautiful seventy-degree days throughout the season while others have large temperature variations from one day to the next.  One thing that can be said for springtime weddings is that you usually don’t have to take precautions against a heatwave.  If you are having a spring wedding you may experience gray skies or a little rain, possibly even a little snow but you for sure don’t need to worry about your guests dehydrating in the heat and humidity found during a summer wedding. 

Holidays

When planning a spring wedding it is important to consider the different holidays that fall throughout these three months.  Many families take vacations surrounding their child’s spring break.  This could be good or bad for you.  If you are planning on having a lot of family come in from out of town a spring break wedding may be perfect timing.  Memorial Day, Easter, Passover, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day all fall within this three-month period of time. 

Pros and Cons of Spring Weddings

One of the biggest benefits of a spring wedding comes from the natural décor that is in bloom.  Spring gives birth to fresh buds and colorful blooms.  From cherry blossoms to daffodils the colors are amazing.  Wedding planners love to help brides coordinate their spring weddings, they provide the ultimate backdrop and don’t require a lot of décor to be beautiful.

Another major advantage of a spring wedding is that most family and friends won’t have other obligations to attend to like they may during the summer.  During the summer people don’t like to have a full schedule because it doesn’t allow them to be as carefree as they desire during their free time.

It is also a great time for an indoor/outdoor wedding.   When planning an outdoor spring wedding, plan for the enjoyment that the spring weather brings but back up that plan with a beautiful tent.  The beauty is that if it is a nice day the tent walls can be rolled up and the tent can be used as more of a canopy.  If the weather is less than perfect or it gets a bit chilly as the evening commences the walls can be rolled down and the towering heaters can be turned on.

Now we all know that a pro doesn’t occur without a con. There are a few cons that follow spring time weddings besides the unpredictable weather.  Most venues and vendors have different pricing depending on the season.  Towards the end of the spring season couples will start to see prices rise as it moves into peak-wedding season.  If you like the idea of a spring wedding but can’t afford the peak-wedding expense, consider holding your wedding earlier in the season.  These price increases occur for destination weddings and honeymoon costs.  

Another con that brides and grooms run into is that venues and vendors are booked well in advanced.  A spring wedding is not something that can often fall into place with just a few months of planning.  If you are set on a wedding that falls during the spring it is important to plan far in advance.

Event Planning DC provides full event planning, partial event planning, month-of (day-of) event coordination, event styling/design and decorating services throughout DC, Maryland, and Virginia, with access to local and national vendors who may provide additional services suitable for your event and budget.  We pride ourselves on providing only the highest quality event coordination, giving you and your guests the perfect day, no matter what the occasion including exclusive corporate and non-profit events, weddings, Bar & Bat Mitzvahs, community events and milestone celebrations.  More information can be found online at https://www.eventplanningdc.com.

Event Planning DC

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Spring Cleaning Allows Homeowners to Declutter Making It Easier to Age in Place

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Spring is my favorite time of year.  It is a time for new beginnings, a time for us to declutter, and a time for us to start thinking about the future.  Although there are many renovations that can be done to a home to make it safer to stay in as we age it is important to start the process somewhere.  Spring cleaning is the perfect time to begin the process and thinking about making your home safer to grow old in.  The warmer weather makes it the perfect time to organize, arrange, and renovate the space for your future.

Accidental falls are the number one injury faced by aging homeowners.   Falls that occur because of environmental factors are easily avoided when proper precautions are taken.  The chores that we can accomplish on our own around our homes safely decreases significantly as our physical and cognitive abilities lessen.  These changes happen naturally as we age.  Even the most independent adults will slowly start to need assistance around the home in order to safely age in place.  Activities such as washing dishes, doing laundry, and self-care are things that older individuals are able to do while living on their own however, more advanced chores will require outside support.

Certain issues plague us as we age.  Not only do we become weaker and have less energy, our vision and memory start to fail.  As these more advanced impairments occur our needs to continue living in our homes will change.  While you are spring cleaning it is crucial to begin to think about the factors that will change and limit you down the road.  This is a perfect time to donate excess furniture and knick-knack items that have been collected.  Increasing open space by removing the excess allows for better mobility and decreases the number of tripping hazards. 

Eliminating items from your home can be difficult.  It is important to keep in mind throughout the process that not everything needs to be gotten rid of immediately.  It is a process that will occur over the course of time while you wish to remain in your home and living independently.  For now, start the process by donating, selling, gifting, or discarding those items you are sure of.  If you no longer have a twin sized bed you no longer have a need for twin sized sheets.  Start simple this spring. 

The time to start thinking about your future starts today.  Most of us wish to stay in our homes as long as we can safely do so.  With that in mind future renovations should be completed in a manner that considers aging.  Age in place contractors specialize in creating spaces that are safe for older homeowners discreetly.  Renovations that consider aging in place are most often hardly recognizable.  Some of which include:

  • Custom closets that add storage and organization without the need to reach above your head
  • Shelving for the kitchen & bath that easily slide in and out
  • Increased lighting fixtures throughout the home – lamps are discouraged as they present a tripping hazard
  • Hardwood flooring, low piled carpet, and slip-resistant flooring – throw rugs should be removed from the home
  • Levered handles for doors, faucets, and cabinetry

It is important to start somewhere when you know that your desire is to live within your own home as you age.  Taking it one step at a time makes the process as a whole easier to handle both emotionally and physically.

Glen Miller the Home Doctor is a licensed general contractor servicing Livingston County and the surrounding areas.  Glen offers a wide range of services including home maintenance plans, age in place remodeling, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, finished basements, and hardwood floor refinishing.  More information can be found online at https://www.glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/.



Glen Miller The Home Doctor

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The Right Time To Open Your Swimming Pool In Michigan

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Boy was this winter long and cold!  The deep freeze we endured makes the amazing weather we are having a real treat.  It also encourages us to get outside and start prepping for summer.  Let’s be honest, the other day when it reached 75 and we had to slather ourselves in sunscreen what we really wanted was to jump into our backyard pools.  This leaves many of us wondering exactly when the best time is to open our pools for the summer.  Is April too soon?

In Michigan, when you open your pool is less about the month of the year and more about the consistency of the temperatures.  When temperatures start to consistently stay warm and the threat of snow has passed it is the perfect time to open your pool. 

It’s important not to wait too long into the change of the season as algae and pollen issues can occur.  When the water in your pool is left stagnate and not allowed to circulate algae and pollen can build up.  Although there isn’t a certain month in which you should open your pool, it is important to open your swimming pool as soon as the temperature stabilizes.

Opening your swimming pool doesn’t need to be a stressful process.  With a bit of pre-planning most homeowners can easily open their pool on their own.   Of course, if you aren’t interested in going through the work there are local swimming pool contractors that offer these services. 

The process to open a swimming pool whether it is an in-ground Gunite plaster pool or above ground vinyl lined pool is basically the same.  One difference however is the inspection of the pool construction. Plaster pools may require resurfacing before they are opened if cracks are evident or rough plaster is present. Resurfacing a plaster pool is quite complicated and is best left up to professional pool plasterers like the experts here at Pound Pool Plastering.

Pool opening procedures however basically remain the same.  This process includes:

  • Remove debris and water from the pool cover
  • Take the pool cover off
  • Hook up the pools pump, filter, and heater
  • Add water if it is not at the proper level
  • Test the water
  • Add chemicals based on the pool waters analysis
  • Put ladders and railings back up
  • Inspect pool fencing and gate locks

Companies that service swimming pools or provide pool plastering or re-plastering services become quite busy during the warmest months of the year.  If you suspect that you will need professional pool services, it is important to schedule them early in the season especially if you suspect your pool needs a fresh coat of plaster. 

Pound Pool Plastering offers several options when it comes to servicing your pool including plaster, caulk, tiling, cement decks, plumbing, and coping in both commercial and residential settings.  More information can be found at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Pound Pool Plastering

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