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Obtaining Cash Through Home Equity Loans, HELOCs

As a homeowner, you are automatically building equity through time, which can be used to secure low-cost funds by obtaining a second mortgage. Through one-time home equity loans or a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC), these options are available for you to access cash for renovations, large purchases, or alternative debt repayment. 

Home equity loans and HELOCs are secured against the value of your property, which allows lenders to offer lower rates than other types of loans. 

A HELOC is a specific amount of money that can be used at your discretion. Similar to a credit card, these loans are repaid over time. However, they accrue lower interest rates on outstanding balances, and these loans are accompanied by variable interest rates and serve as a revolving source of funds that you can access whenever you choose through online transfers, checks, or credit cards connected to that account. There are few, if any, closing costs associated with HELOCs, and untapped funds do not charge interest.

Home equity loans are often given as large lump sums of cash, often accompanied with a fixed interest rate. These are good for individuals who need money for a one-time expense such as a wedding or home renovation. These loans generally exceed $35,000 or more. Closing costs associated with the first mortgage also need to be paid, such as loan-processing fees, origination fees, appraisal fees, and recording fees. Prepaid interest might also be required at closing. 

These loans use your house equity as collateral by calculating the difference between the value of the home and the mortgage balance. The downside to these types of loans is that lenders typically place a second lien on the home, giving them rights to it – along with the first mortgage lien – if there is a default. The more the borrower obtains, the more they are at risk.  

Mortgage brokers generally have the best deals on home equity loans due to their ongoing relationships with lenders and investment pools. If you need extra cash, a second mortgage can be a realistic option. Lenders might be willing to offer lower rates because they are secured against the your home’s equity. Remember to calculate the extra loan payment and factor it into your monthly budget, and don’t go into default, or your home could be at risk of foreclosure. 

If you’re looking for fast cash, you’ve come to the right place! Contact the experts at EB Mortgage to get started 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 or e-mail us today! Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

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AI On the Horizon for Radiologists

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been poised to improve the radiological process for some time, yet despite hundreds of conferences, hype, and promises, AI hasn’t made a huge impact yet. 

Part of the issue with AI’s slow integration for radiologists lies within the application. Algorithms can be applied to specific situations and places, but radiologists need to look beyond these narrow views. True workflow integration is the key to fully utilizing AI. 

Though other areas of our lives already rely on AI, radiology has not caught up with the trend. Today’s viewing software cannot suggest relevant prior imaging exams based on the current image being studied. Two strategies already exist which can help facilitate the AI process. 

Activity Pattern Identification
By recording a radiologist’s habits, AI can look for clusters of repeated actions to automate. Specifically, viewing particular images and reading aloud numbers on a corresponding screen could be achieved by AI. Or AI could monitor click patterns from radiologists to offer the most appropriate measurement tool. Personal patterns for handling protocols can also be improved by AI, which can shave valuable time and improve radiologists’ mental load. 

Information Integration
A large number of radiology algorithms accept images and output a diagnosis or prediction; however, after receiving images, the AI could include extra information with the output which would be of use to the radiologist. With this information at their fingertips, radiologists could make better clinical decisions. For example, if a radiologist is examining a specific body part where surgery had been performed, AI could display the most recent pre-operative images to allow the radiologist to compare the two more easily.  

Considered some of the most technologically-forward physicians, radiologists should harness the power of AI and tap into the potential capabilities. By using pattern detection and information integration, AI can simplify tasks, clarify figures, and help to boost maximum productivity.  

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 to learn more.Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

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What’s the Big Deal Regarding ‘Zero-Day’?

“Zero-day” is becoming a more popular term to describe recently discovered security vulnerabilities exposed by hackers and used to infiltrate computer systems. The phrase literally means the developer has zero days to fix the issue caused by hackers. 

Zero-day threats are unprecedented virus attacks that exploit either a new variant of malware or previously unknown software (zero-day vulnerability). Since these malware viruses are unique, they are impossible to detect by typical signature-matching tactics. Zero-day is sometimes written as 0-day, and the term is often associated with the words: vulnerability, exploit, and attack. Keep reading to learn the difference between the three. 

Zero-Day Vulnerability
Hackers unearth these software vulnerabilities before vendors can be made aware of them; therefore, no patch or fix exists, making them more likely to infiltrate systems.

Zero-Day Exploits
This term refers to the hacking method used to attack systems with a previously unknown vulnerability. 

Zero-Day Attack
The actual term describes the execution of a zero-day exploit to cause damage or steal data from an unprotected system. 

Hackers can exploit security vulnerabilities found in software, called exploit code, and ultimately wreak havoc before developers can remedy the situation. When anti-virus companies release “patch” updates, they are essentially covering a hole that was previously discovered by hackers. Unfortunately, this process can take months, as these security vulnerabilities are not immediately distinguished. 

Signature matching is a specific strategy used to identify malware by analyzing samples of destructed data to create a signature file and then distributing an update for anti-virus software to identify the specific signature. Zero-day threats can sneak past these signature matching tactics, ultimately affecting many victims. 

Zero-day attacks are immensely dangerous and typically aimed at operating systems, web browsers, office applications, open-source components, hardwired firmware, Internet of Things (IoT), and more. Potential victims include those who use a browser or operating system, intellectual data property owners, run hardware, firmware, and the IoT through large businesses, organizations, government agencies, etc. 

Cyber threats are continually infecting thousands of computers with zero-day threats. To protect your network, applications, and data, contact the experts at CPS. Our engineers can engage an advanced threat prevention system that can test untrusted files, links, and e-mails before they get to you.

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 team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

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Performing Simultaneous Cataract Surgery

Age-related cataracts can affect both eyes, requiring the endogenic lens to be replaced with an artificial Intraocular Lens (IOL) surgically. Generally, there is a lapse in time between surgeries for each eye, but the surgery can be performed on both eyes on the same day.

A study by Cochrane suggests that there are unlikely to be any large, clinically significant differences between both approaches, though the overall quality was assessed as moderate to very low.

Several advantages to performing the surgery in both eyes simultaneously include fewer hospital visits, faster bilateral vision recovery, and lower procedure costs. 

Risks of simultaneously performing cataract surgery in both eyes consist of developing a postoperative complication in both eyes, and not being able to use the visual acuity from the first operation during the second procedure, since there would only be one. 

The Cochrane review authors noted that the complications generally occurred up to three months post-op, and there were little- to no differences noted between the two methods. Most of the study results were limited by an overall small number of endophthalmitis, postoperative complications, and a lack of specific data, among other variables. 

Thomas Kohnen, MD, PhD, chair of the German Commission for Refractive Surgery (KRC), set up by the German Society of Ophthalmology (DOG), and the Professional Association of German Ophthalmologists (BVA) at the University Clinic Frankfurt, said, “In Germany, there is only very little data on ISBCS because it is barely a topic here. “We have very good medical infrastructure with widespread and prompt ophthalmological care, such that even people living in the countryside do not have to travel great distances or experience long waiting times for a first or second cataract surgery, which is different from many places abroad. The procedure with bilateral operations on the same day is not recommended in the guidelines from our professional societies, [because] any complications that occur postoperatively could potentially entail lengthy legal liability procedures for the surgeons.”

In Germany, sequential bilateral cataract surgery is typically performed with two outpatient operations spaced several days (or weeks) apart. Medical, social, or personal reasons can create exceptions to the rule, requiring both eyes to be operated on with a shorter amount of time between each procedure, under general anesthesia in one sitting, or with an overnight gap. 

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 to learn more.Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

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Electric Vehicle Deployment Plan Approved by White House

The Electric Vehicle (EV) Infrastructure Deployment Plan has been approved for all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program, which was created and backed by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. 

Totaling over $1.5 billion to help build EV chargers, all states have access to FY22 and FY23 NEVI formula funding, covering roughly 75,000 miles of freeway countrywide. 

The NEVI formula will help construct a convenient, reliable, and affordable EV charging network across the United States, making $5 billion available in the upcoming five years. 

United States Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said, “America led the original automotive revolution in the last century, and today, thanks to the historic resources in the President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re poised to lead in the 21st century with Electric Vehicles.” 

President Biden aims to ensure that by 2030, half of all new vehicles sold will be zero-emission. Through a powerful network of public chargers, achieving the goal of minimizing our carbon emissions by 50 to 52 percent from 2005 levels by 2030 will be more plausible. 

Prior to their approval, State Departments of Transportation (DOTs) had the ability to leverage specialized assistance available through the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation. This enabled them to start employing people and training them in specific activities related to the development of their plans. Now, those DOTs can be reimbursed for their costs and have a wide array of options to use their NEVI formula funding for EV charging projects.

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 team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

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Seven Direct Mail Ideas to Get Your Business Going

Thought direct mail was an endangered form of marketing? Think again! Direct mail is thriving as a way for business owners to gain marketing momentum. If you are thinking about adding direct mail to your marketing budget, keep reading to discover some ways it can boost clientele. 

B2B
Direct mail delivers messages to audiences with special promotions and other offers that draw customers through the door. Business-to-Business (B2B) is a way to achieve tangible connections through direct mail services. 

Short & Sweet
Just a few years ago, copy on direct mail pieces was almost double what it is today. Direct mail works to snatch the recipient’s attention by offering bold copy, lively colors, short sentences, and a clear call to action by invoking an emotional reaction. Generate curiosity by piquing customers’ interests.

Size Matters
Looking to stand out from the crowd? Make your direct mail a unique size so it is immediately legible – and noticeable – to your audience. Postcards are a great way to engage with customers, as people are spending less time reading and more time glancing. Postcards are also more economical than traditional direct mail options. 

Who, Me? No, You!
Personalization is all the rage these days, thanks to help from highly complex, data-driven technology. Customized strategies and a multitude of data points ensure your message is headed to the right mailbox. Mailing lists have progressed to allow for a higher Return on Investment (ROI) in marketing.

Freebies
Free samples are a plus when trying to familiarize an audience with your brand. To jumpstart sales, offer something free as a highly effective way to connect with your customers. If they are impressed, they are more likely to purchase products from you in the future or recommend your services to a friend or family member. 

QR Codes
QR codes have been around for some time, but in recent years they have gained momentum for online business integration. Printing a QR code on your direct mail piece is an efficient way to interact with potential customers by showcasing your online presence. 

Deals & Discounts
Direct mail is an excellent – and tried-and-true – way of promoting coupons to customers. Ensure your dollar amount or percentage off is bold, clear, and concise to intrigue your audience. 

Direct mail won’t be going extinct any time soon. With innovative technologies, fresh marketing strategies, and adaptive takes on traditional formats, businesses can utilize direct mail to reach clientele. 

Looking for direct mail design and print services? At Econo Print, we know direct mail. Work with us today!

At Econo Print, we strive to deliver the highest-quality printed products possible. We produce top-rated goods in a timely fashion at a competitive price. Listening to our clients and helping them achieve their business goals is our top priority. We are proud of the strong roots we’ve built in the community and pride ourselves on using cutting-edge technology. Our products, commitment to service, and level of expertise exceed our clients’ expectations. Contact us today or visit www.econoprintusa.com to learn how we can help launch your business to the next level. Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

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Disconnects 101

A safety switch (or disconnect) monitors the electric current in various applications. They are used with major industrial machines such as conveyor belts, line equipment, heavy appliances, and whole-system electrical protection. You may need to disconnect your equipment from the electrical supply for repairs, maintenance, or emergencies. Safety switches monitor the current and detect faults in the electrical infrastructure so that in the event of an electrical leak, a short-circuit, an overload, or equipment failure, the safety switch will nearly instantaneously (within milliseconds) shut off power to the system.

Safety switches are an NEC requirement (National Electrical Code) in all industrial settings and were established by the National Fire Protection Association. The NEC requires that a safety switch be “in sight” or visible and no more than 50 feet from the equipment it controls.

There are many types of safety switches, and the model you need depends on the conditions inside your working environment. Not sure what type you require? Call J&P Electrical, our experienced and motivated team of staff can help, and if we don’t have the product you are looking for, we’ll find it! 

Types of Disconnects:

  • Light duty safety switch (residential, disconnect workshops, hobby rooms, furnaces, and garages)
  • General duty safety switch (residential & light commercial disconnects)
  • Heavy- duty safety switch
  • Double throw safety switch
  • Indoor
  • Outdoor

Disconnect Fuse Types:

  • Fused
  • Non-Fused
  • Cartridge
  • Class T
  • Plug

Disconnect Maximum Voltage:

  • 120VAC
  • 240VAC
  • 600VAC

Disconnect Amperes:

  • General/light duty – 30A, 60A, 100A, 200A, 400A, 800A
  • Heavy duty – 30A, 60A, 100A, 200A, 225A, 400A, 600A, 800A, 1200A
  • Double throw – 30A, 60A, 100A, 200A, 600A

Looking for disconnects or other industrial equipment? J&P Electrical is sure to have or be able to find what you’re looking for; give us a call!

J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance.  Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

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Big Game Hunter Survival Tips

Unexpected situations can creep up anywhere – especially while hunting in the fall season. Every year, countless hunters get lost or disoriented, resulting in dangerous conditions such as hypothermia or other health hazards. Most hunters make it out alive, but deep woods hazards should not be taken lightly. Prepare for the unexpected by reviewing our checklist below. 

Know The Area
It’s imperative to be extremely familiar with the landscape you are hunting in. Pay attention to your surroundings including rivers, creeks, and significant trees. If you are on a trail, leave temporary markers at intersections so you can easily find your way back. When reversed, the area can look different, especially in the dark. 

Extreme Weather
If it’s raining, foggy, snowing, or showing signs of poor visibility, the landscape will change in mere minutes. You can easily get lost or turned around in cold, wet weather, so make sure you have the proper gear and clothing to account for extreme weather changes. 

Map + Compass VS GPS + Cell Phones
There are obviously pros and cons to each of these, but the lesson here is not to rely solely on one or the other. While electronic devices can fail due to dead batteries or malfunction, maps and compasses can become wet and ruined or rendered illegible. Not to mention, you need to be trained on how to use them. 

Build a Fire
Carry matches, a lighter, or another fire-starting device that is weatherproof and capable of working in any condition. Never leave a fire unattended, but utilize the warmth if necessary. 

Communicate
Ensure your loved ones know where you are at all times, and set a deadline to alert the authorities if you haven’t returned. If you have a hunting partner, do the same for them.

Light the Path
Flashlights or headlamps are invaluable for hunters and can be handy for a variety of purposes.  

Food, Shelter, and Warmth
While a human can survive days without food, staying warm and hydrated is more critical. If you are out longer than anticipated, commercial survival kits can provide nourishment when you need it.

If you need gear to prepare for the hunt, check out our wide selection at Wolf Survival Gear today.

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for your prepping and survival needs. We are your trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you’ll need it later. Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

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Radiotherapy Equipment to Last a Lifetime

Medical equipment professionals often debate whether machines are useful past their “expiration” date. Newer radiation therapy equipment is touted to last seven or eight years, noting that it took roughly seven years to design and program before its release, doubling its age instantaneously. Therefore, the technology, software, and knowledge associated with a 14-year-old device is severely outdated. 

However, this thinking is not necessarily true, as there are machines over 20 years old that are operating safely and reliably. In Latin America, a Varian 6X linear accelerator has been treating patients for more than 40 years.

Since 1953, a GE MaximaR 100 X-Ray Device (also known as a Superficial Unit) has been working at a hospital in the United States. For almost 70 years, this unit has helped treat skin cancer patients by producing mild doses of radiation to destroy cancer cells while preserving the surrounding healthy tissue. This machine is still being manufactured for use in dermatology and radiation oncology clinics.

In the Caribbean, a physician at a radiation oncology center said, “Our 2003 Varian 21EX linear accelerator treats over 50 patients per day. It has all the features we want including RapidArc. The 21EX has successfully treated thousands of patients.”

These machines are well-built and are fully capable of lasting longer than seven or eight years. Certain companies purposefully underestimate the life of their linear accelerators to drive sales and increase new model usage. Also, many refurbished linear accelerators use the exact same technology as the current market models. 

Are you looking to purchase a refurbished linear accelerator or have yours repaired? Contact RadParts today.

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 to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

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Correctly Draining Pool Water

Swimming pools are typically enjoyed by families across the country during the summer season. Pool owners are fully aware of the maintenance required to upkeep these tiny bodies of water, such as adding chemicals, more water, or draining the pool. 

Most municipal cities do not allow pool water to be drained into the city’s stormwater system. This includes streets, curbs, catch basins, ditches, gutters, channels, and storm drains. The purpose of the storm drains is to protect against flooding by swiftly clearing torrential rainwater from the street. 

Pool water, on the other hand, is nothing like rainwater. It contains elevated levels of chemicals such as chlorine, salt, chloramines, and other pollutants that can potentially ruin the local water quality. If pool water gets into the stormwater system, it can pose an environmental and public safety threat.

When it is time to drain your pool, you have several options: 

  • Backyard: If you choose to drain your pool in your yard, be mindful of your neighbors’ property and proximity to storm drains. Do some research and learn which plants can’t survive pool water being released in their environment. To avoid flooding, drain your pool in small intervals.
  • Sewer: you can drain your pool water into your home’s main sanitary sewer.
  • Contractor: pool water that has notable contaminants such as algae or other issues should be pumped by a licensed contractor rather than released into the environment.

To find your sewer line cleanout, look for a small circular cap on a pipe with a raised square or mushroom-shaped cone. This line should be either sticking out of your house or from the ground, covering the cleanout. You can also scan the premises for a concrete or metal cover marked “SEWER,” “C.O.,” or “S.” The cleanouts are usually located under these covers.

If you live in a city or municipality, it is usually a good idea to contact them and see what their policy is on pool drainage. Some will require specific rules about when, how, and where to drain your pool. Sometimes, cities require pool water to be chlorine neutral before draining.

Once you properly dispose of your pool water, you can rest assured you have helped preserve the wildlife and water quality in the area.  

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or e-mail us for a free estimate. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/