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Cleaning and Caring for Marble Surfaces

Nothing is quite like marble; the appearance of movement created by veining is distinctive to this popular, porous surface, which is notoriously susceptible to scratching and staining. Particularly where hard objects or high acidity is present – think kitchen knives or lemons – marble can easily succumb to etches and pits. Thankfully, caring for marble helps preserve its appearance and prevent surface damage.

Lemon juice, alcohol, or tomato juice all have a high acidic content. When these are dripped, splashed, or spilled on a marble surface and lingers for an extended time, the acid deteriorates the calcium carbonate in the stone, creating permanent damage. The dull, slightly dark rings or spots that result from this chemical reaction are called etchings. In some light, etching is more noticeable, and vice-versa.

Milk, juice, fruit, and alcohol can occasionally cause both etching and staining. To keep your marble looking like new, consider the following:

Avoid acidic solutions: Not only are the aforementioned foods acidic, but certain cleaning products can also deteriorate marble. According to the National Stone Institute, vinegar, lemon juice, and other surfactants should be avoided on marble. Mild soap and water are best, along with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth.

Seal properly: Spray a sealant at least once a month so penetration cannot occur as easily. While certain liquids (red wine) will still stain if left to sit overnight, the sealant will protect the marble if the liquid or juice is wiped up immediately.

Solutions for common stains:

  • Oil-based (grease, cooking oil, cosmetics): Cleanse the surface lightly with a soft liquid cleanser, household detergent, ammonia, or mineral spirits.
  • Organic (coffee, tea, fruit, food): Mix 12 percent hydrogen peroxide with a few drops of ammonia to wipe clean.
  • Rust stains (metals): These might be permanent and are extremely difficult to remove, and will need to be treated with a poultice, a paste-like cleaning agent sold commercially.
  • Paint stains: Lacquer thinner or razor blades can be used to remove small amounts carefully.
  • Smoke stains: Commercial products are available and used to remove these stains.
  • Water spots or rings: Use #0000 dry steel wool to buff these spots out.

Are you interested in getting marble countertops or marble tiles in your bathroom? Contact the renovation 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.

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Rental History Will Soon Factor into Mortgages

Fannie Mae plans to launch a new underwriting innovation beginning September 18, 2021 that will automatically incorporate rental history into their credit evaluation system. Using bank statement data, mortgage lenders will be able to “deliver a more inclusive credit assessment” with the borrower’s permission, according to the press release.

Hugh R. Frater, Fannie Mae CEO, said, “Many renters believe they will never be able to buy their own home because of insufficient credit. We can responsibly expand mortgage eligibility by including positive rent payment history in underwriting risk assessments. We believe this will be the first time any large-scale automated mortgage underwiring system will leverage electronic bank statement data to consider positive rent payment history. It is but one important step in correcting the housing inequalities of the past, creating a more inclusive mortgage credit evaluation process going forward, and encouraging the housing system to develop new ways of safely assessing and determining mortgage eligibility in order to fairly serve all potential homeowners. We look forward to working with our industry partners to do what we can together to address this and other barriers of homeownership.”

This novel system will even the playing field for homeowners. It should lead to more mortgage approvals for those who might not have otherwise qualified for a home loan because of insufficient credit history.

If the borrower has a limited traditional credit history or was denied previously, the new change could be beneficial for them. Positive rental payments will be automatically notated from tendered bank statements and incorporated into the underwriting program.

To learn more about this new program and apply for a mortgage, contact the professionals 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.

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Interactive Tools on Websites Influenced by Gender, Personality

A recent study published by Penn State examined how much personality comes into play when interacting online. Factors such as being extroverted, introverted, gender, and more, help determine your online browsing behavior.  

According to the study, for extroverted women, Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC) tools helped drive certain websites to be more interactive. Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), on the other hand, was more prevalent among male extroverts who preferred to directly interact with the computer.

S. Shyam Sundar, James P. Jimirro Professor of Media Effects Research in the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications and co-director of the Media Effects Research Laboratory, said, “When you go to a website – for example, the Google search engine – you’re essentially engaging in HCI, which is different from CMC, which is when you’re communicating with other humans through computer technology. When we talk about HCI here, it’s really about the degree to which the system or the machine allows us to interact with it, and it includes everything from how we swipe and tap on our mobile devices, to how we try to access different information through links on a website. When we talk about CMC, it is about the tools to chat with somebody else, like a customer service agent through an online portal, or when we’re having a video chat via Zoom, for example.”

An imperative aspect of creating positive user experiences is knowing who your web visitors are, along with what engages them. Sundar said, “These are actually quite important business decisions, because they cost a lot of money and have a lot of backend consequences.”

People who are extroverted in real life are also somewhat outgoing when it comes to virtual interactions, according to the paper.

Yan Huang, assistant professor of integrated strategic communication in the Jack J. Valenti School of Communication, University of Houston, and first author of the report, said, “Our findings largely supported the hypothesis that as people’s level of extroversion goes up, they’re more likely to recognize the interactive potential of the site, no matter if it’s communicating with the machine, or using the computer to talk to other people, but gender also makes a difference here. What we saw was that extroversion has slightly different effects for men compared to women, in terms of the types of interactivity that they appreciate more.”

Does your website need a boost? Contact the experts at Creative Programs and Systems today. Our experienced programmers, designers, and content creators can make your vision a reality.

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.

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Ultrasound Gel Recalled by FDA

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has recalled eight lots of Eco-Med Pharmaceuticals ultrasound gel, with contamination being the culprit. Confirmed bacterial infections affected 15 patients who were in contact with the Eco-Gel 200 ultrasound gel. Unconfirmed cases are also suspected.

Eco-Gel instructed customers to immediately halt the use of the gel and return it to the manufacturer if possible.

FDA officials said, “Eco-Med has initiated this recall and quarantine due to bacterial contamination in the affected loss of ultrasound gel with Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bxx). The source(s) of the bacterial contamination is currently unknown. Eco-med is conducting a comprehensive investigation to determine the root cause of this contamination and take all necessary corrective action.”

Patients who encountered the gel can be asymptomatic or develop severe toxicity, such as bloodstream infection, which can result in sepsis or death.

Eco-Med lot numbers included in the recall:

  • Lot number B029 – distribution: March 26, 2021
  • Lot number B030 – distribution: March 30, 2021
  • Lot number B031 – distribution: April 5, 2021
  • Lot number B032 – distribution: April 7, 2021
  • Lot number B040 – distribution: April 26, 2021
  • Lot number B041 – distribution April 26, 2021
  • Lot number B048 – distribution: May 7, 2021
  • Lot number B055 – distribution: May 26, 2021

These brand names were also tainted and are recalled:

  • Chattanooga Conductor USA – DJO Global
  • DJO Conductor – DJO Global
  • Liquasonic – Athena Medical Products
  • MediChoice Ultrasound Gel – Owens & Minor
  • MediChoice Ultrasound Gel – Mac Medical Supply Co.
  • Medline – Medline Industries
  • NDC Eco-Gel 200 Ultrasound Gel – NDC
  • Omni – Accelerated Care Plus Leasing

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.

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Paint Shortage Affecting the Electrical Industry

You might have heard about the worldwide shortages that have been sparked by a combination of the global pandemic, weather (freeze) catastrophes in Texas, fires in China, a lack of workers, and more. The supply chain has suffered from these setbacks, causing shortages in various industries such as technology, automobile, furniture, transportation, appliances, and electrical equipment.

Shortages began during the global pandemic, as industries were affected by transportation and staffing issues. However, during the past three months, resin paints have been extremely difficult to acquire. Polyester and vinyl ester are most challenging to obtain, followed by epoxy.

Thanks to a boom in new construction and countless homeowners upgrading due to confinement, demand for paint has been skyrocketing as well. Jim Baird, chief investment officer at Plante Moran Financial Advisors in Kalamazoo, said, “Strong demand is a good problem to have, but that demand is increasingly straining manufacturers’ ability to keep pace.”

Greg McLaughlin, composites manager at Sea Force Center Consoles, said, “Resin distributors are rationing resin deliveries, with large-volume builders first in line. We’re hearing the industry could face a four- to six-week delay in resin products due to the Texas freeze from damages related to processing plants’ piping and fittings.”

 At J&P, we know the supply chain can be unpredictable, which is why we make sure to overstock when possible and plan for times like these. With paint orders being backordered for five months (and counting), things can get a little stressful but rest assured, the quality of our product will not be compromised!

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.

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Outdoor Toilet Solutions

What do people do in the absence of a toilet? During emergencies or while outdoors for camping, survival, or more, without a flushing toilet, it’s important to dispose of excrements appropriately. Diseases such as cholera, dysentery, giardia, typhoid fever, and hepatitis can be transferred through human feces.

So, what are your options? Here are a few emergency toilet solutions:

  • Five-gallon bucket: line the bucket with heavy-duty trash bags (there are also liners made specifically for this.) Add kitty litter, sawdust, peat, or dirt to the bottom, attaching a snap-on toilet seat to the top. Sprinkle a cup or two of bleach, diluted with water in a 1:10 solution, to kill bacteria.
  • ChemiSan: a product specifically designed to turn human waste into compost. This revolutionary powder is easy to apply, effective, and safe. 
  • ‘Go Anywhere’ toilet kits: this biodegradable solution safely disposes of liquid and human waste. The gel solution breaks down human waste effortlessly.
  • Waterless Freestanding Emergency Toilet: this option is safe, sanitary, and does not use chemicals, water, gas, or electricity. Due to its size, this option will require prior planning or be added to an emergency preparedness kit or bag.
  • Dirt: use a heavy-duty shovel to dig a small hole (deep enough to completely cover the excrements) and then bury appropriately.

In addition to the solutions above, make sure you check your list for all the little essentials like toilet paper, hand sanitizer, wipes, etc.

Do you need other emergency supplies? Shop Wolf Survival Gear’s wide selection 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.

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The Importance of Engine Coolant Flushes

Engine coolant is also known as antifreeze. This fluid removes excess heat from an engine using heat transfer chemicals such as ethylene or propylene glycol and water. Cars produce a great deal of energy and heat while moving. In the engine, the exhaust and cooling systems are designed to ensure the vehicle remains cool. Coolant safeguards the engine in the sweltering summer months by absorbing heat, thereby stopping water from boiling and ensuring metal parts don’t corrode.

Without coolant, an engine is susceptible to many issues. Since coolant loses potency through time, it’s imperative to get coolant flushes to ensure your engine is protected. Here are some benefits of changing your coolant fluids:

  1. Eliminates rust and scale deposits, which can cause overheating and cooling system damage.
  2. Additives lubricate the water pump, extending its life.
  3. Rust is prevented from forming.
  4. Replaces old coolant/antifreeze that can become acidic and ruin pumps, hoses, and engine components.

Coolant flushes ensure your vehicle maintains optimal performance. To keep your engine running smoothly from your transmission to your power steering, ensure your coolant is changed according to schedule.

Check your owner’s manual to see when it’s time to get your vehicle serviced for a coolant flush. If it’s been over a year since your previous coolant change, visit your local Team CAMC today.

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.

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EV Charging is Expanding Across America

Within the decade, expect to see a more significant number of electric vehicles (EV) on the road. Thanks to the intensified global focus on sustainability along with incentives and policymaker encouragement, EVs could be substantially more popular.

We are all aware of the number of gas stations throughout the country, but EV chargers aren’t exactly on the same level. The demand for more charging stations will surely increase, as these will affect the viability of EVs. Without reliable chargers, EVs will not be a sustainable option to drive long distances and produce zero emissions.

“The United States is in the midst of a fundamental transformation of our transportation sector, with consumers, businesses, fleets, and automakers embracing the transition to EVs,” said Pasquale Romano, President and CEO of ChargePoint.

Research conducted by Coherent Market Insights showed the growth of EV sales would simultaneously increase the production of chargers across the automotive industry. The upward cadence of EV production (Tesla produced half a million units in 2020) shows that manufacturers are concentrated on trying to earn the attention of worldwide customers.

With the upward swing of EV production, charging stations are sure to follow. Public charging stations are evident in national parks, some big-box-store (Meijer) parking lots, rest areas, and more. In the future, more charging stations will surely be prominent near commercial office buildings, retailers, and such. During work or shopping, an owner’s car could be charging.

Dr. Charles Zhu, Vice President of sales and product development and head of automotive business for Delta Electronics, and principal investigator in the Department of Energy program, said, “We are excited to utilize the battery emulator to test all 400kW charging conditions with 200V – 1,000V charging voltage ranges that encompass all EVs currently in the market.”

To learn more about EVs chargers or schedule an installation, contact the experts at State Electric Company today.

State Electric Company is a leader in the electrification of the nation. Our highly educated and experienced team of professionals uses industry-leading software technology and has partnered with manufacturers to deliver affordable solutions for all your electrical needs. With our combined, extensive knowledge in renewable energy sources through solar and battery storage, the team at State Electric works together to provide customers, large and small, with efficient electrical solutions. We specialize in smart electrical panels, EV chargers, battery storage, microgrids, and emergency generators with automatic transfer switches to ensure that all your energy needs are affordable and safely met. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

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

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Glaucoma Patients See Clearer with Quantum-Dot LEDs

A study published in BMC Ophthalmology showed certain lights are better than others for people with glaucoma. Researchers in South Korea monitored visual acuity, black-and-white contrast sensitivity, and color vision tests on 36 glaucoma patients. The study subjects were situated under three different lights, all displaying various color wavelengths: a three-band fluorescent lamp, a white LED, and a quantum-dot LED. The luminescence was set to the same brightness on all lights.

Visual acuity or black-and-white contrast sensitivity did not change among the three lights; however, patients under quantum-dot LEDs were able to distinguish color better than under the other lights.

According to the researchers, “This finding is very important for glaucoma patients because it is strongly associated with vision-related quality of life in glaucoma patients. Thus, a more high-quality light system could increase the ability of color distinction and may increase quality of life in glaucoma patients because the relationship between ability of color distinction and quality of life has been closed.”

Previous studies showed that glaucoma patients have a lower quality of life because of visual impairment.

Glaucoma patients who take multiple antiglaucoma pharmaceuticals could also benefit from quantum-dot LEDs, as the most commonly-used method for distinguishing the different drugs is bottle cap color.

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.

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Lasting Drought Forces Reservoirs into Record Lows

According to the United States Geological Survey, some of America’s largest reservoirs – Lake Powell, Lake Mead, and Utah’s Great Salt Lake – have reached record lows, with more decline expected in the coming months.

Lake Powell’s water level has plummeted to the lowest level since the United States Government began filling the reservoir in the 1960s. The Western drought is responsible for creating severe conditions. Lake Powell stretches from Utah to Arizona and is currently experiencing a “megadrought.”  

A 24-month study was recently released by the Federal Bureau of Reclamation, which showed that the amount of water flowing into Lake Powell had plummeted considerably in the previous six months. With water restrictions already in place, they could become more strict as the Bureau of Reclamation outlined a 79 percent chance that the lake will fall below 3,525 feet next year.

Wayne Pullan, the Upper Colorado Basin regional director for the Bureau of Reclamation, said, “This is a serious situation.”

Lake Mead is also suffering from historically low levels of water. Both Lake Mead and Lake Powell are connected through a river system that delivers water to over 40 million people. The two reservoirs are among the largest in the United States.

A dam on Lake Mead provides hydropower for many Western states; electric production from the Hoover Dam has plunged by roughly 25 percent as a direct result of the drought.

Utah’s Great Salt Lake has reached a new low due to higher temperatures and a lack of rainfall.

Ineffective water management combined with the effects of climate change has led to the droughts, which could potentially worsen soon. 

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.