Month: December 2013

Things to Consider When Hiring An Exterminator

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

When you think of the top ten worst jobs exterminator has to be somewhere in the list.  Who doesn’t scream like a baby when they see a spider or two and forget it one mouse and I am out forever.  Never to return to the room that once was infested, because yes in my mind one would be an infestation, with mice.  Exterminators have a tough, dirty job that sometimes is not without failure.  It is true that some infestations take continual treatment and a one-time procedure is not going to fix the homes issue.

There are a few things you should be aware of before you hire an exterminator and yep one of them is that sometimes for your infestation to stay at bay they will have to visit more than once.

First things first, the cleanest homes and kitchens are still not immune to some insects and rodents.  As unsettling as this is it is true.  Pests are attracted to clean homes.  They like food, whether it is in a sink, a trash can or a closed cupboard.  They can find it anywhere.  Pests also love moisture.  They foster in moisture which also sustains them as a viable life form within your home.  To avoid issues from food and moisture around the home make sure that you take your trash out regularly.  Don’t allow food to stay on plates whether they are sitting in the dishwasher or the sink.  Dry the dishes with the heat of the dishwasher which prevents unwanted moisture from dishes put away moist.  On the outside make sure that water is never left to puddle up and become a habitat for critters.

If bugs are attracted to your home they will find a way to make it theirs.  Certain bugs, such as bedbugs don’t care about your homes environment all they care about is you.  You are their source of food, well your blood is.  They are incredibly difficult to get rid of and can hitch a ride home with you on basically any surface.  Leave your luggage outside after traveling.  Wash everything and don’t assume that because you can’t see them they aren’t there.  This is not the case at all.  They are tiny and hiding is there main goal during the daytime.

Don’t assume because I was able to get rid of your pest problem it won’t ever come back again. If you bring a roach home, you will get roach’s again.  If you don’t keep the lid on your trash the raccoon I got rid of will have a brother that comes to visit.  Your exterminator can only do so much.  They can get rid of an issue and to treatment to prevent another infestation but you need to be vigilant and follow their advice as well to help yourself.

Head lice are not something an exterminator can help you get rid of. With any bug that hosts on hair or skin you are looking at needing to be vigilant in medically removing it yourself as well as within your home.  An exterminator is not who needs to be called in to handle a case of body or head lice.

Be sure to hire a pest removal company that uses an Integrated Pest Management process.  This ensures that you are getting the safest pest removal using the least amount of product that achieves the most effective results.

Best Pest Removal LLC

Choosing A Quality Brand Name Knife

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

A quality knife is a must for almost everyone.  Whether you are a crafter, hunter, fisherman, camper, hiker, outdoorsman or just plain old handy all around a knife is a tool that you will not be able to function without. A knife is such a valuable tool that any new young man or women in our family acquires one at the same time that they receive their drivers license.  Whether for cutting a box, opening a can, cutting your way out of a tangle or as a security blanket walking to your car in a dark parking lot a knife is an essential tool.

The old adage that you get what you pay for is true when it comes to the purchase of a knife.  Don’t waste money on a cheap gas station pocket knife.  You will literally be throwing money away.  Invest in a decent knife as a gift for someone or for yourself, it will pay you back tenfold in years served.  A quality knife will last long enough to be a family heirloom so look at the purchase as such.  A terrific knife to start with is a folding knife with a locking blade.  There are many companies supplying knives that fit this description narrowing the selection down is the hard part.  Below I will share a few personal favorites.

One brand that stands the test of time is W.R. Case & Son Cutlery.  Started in 1889, each knife and blade that is made is different form the next.  Case blades are stamped from steel and hardened using their special heat method.  After this is completed the handles are carved from a multitude of materials.  Case handles come from hardwoods, mother-of-pearl, exotic animal bone as well as unique stones.  All the parts used in making a Case knife are superior metals such as silver, nickel and brass.  If you purchase a Case knife you are not only buying a quality tool you are also purchasing a collectable heirloom that will be passed on from one member of your family to another for years.

Another quality knife company that is known for their quality, heirloom pieces is Fallkniven knives.  A Swedish, family business that began around 1980 has grown into one of the most popular brands for fishing and hunting enthusiasts all over the world.  With a knife designed and manufactured by Fallkniven you are guaranteed a knife that is second to none.  The knives have it all; good looks unbeatable craftsmanship and unrivaled performance.  You can choose from many styles of knives including folding, fixed blade, military, collectors and chef knives.

These are just two of the many knife brands I would suggest to purchase as a knife that will ultimately become a family heirloom.  It is priceless to see how a child lights up when they are given great grandpa’s pocket knife from when he was a young man.  With either of the brands listed above and plenty of other you are purchasing an essential tool that will carry a multitude of stories with it throughout the years.

Knife Mule

The Blade Is Important When Choosing A Quality Knife

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

In hunting you will find there are two distinct types of knives to choose from, the fixed blade knife and the folding or lock blade knife.  As with most products there are distinct benefits and drawbacks when deciding between the two.  When choosing between the two you will want to consider your unique and specific hunting approach as well as your preference for carrying your knife.  If you prefer to carry a knife in your pocket you will want to go with a folding or locking blade knife but if you want to wear the knife on your belt or in a boot sheath you will be looking at a fixed blade knife.

Folding or locking blade knives often come with a unique feature that allows them to be opened using only one hand.  Often times the knife is equipped with a small lever that you place your thumb in that assists in opening the blade.  Another nice feature about folding blades is the locking mechanism that prevents accidental blade closings.  If a blade closes accidentally it is likely to cause injury.  To close a knife with a locking component you must press the lever down and apply pressure to fold the knife back into the handle.  A lock blade knife is convenient to be carried within a pocket or worn easily on a belt.  They are usually smaller in size then fixed blade knives which make them a terrific option for an everyday knife or for a knife used in fishing, hunting or outdoor adventures.

If you are into big game hunting or are adventurous in survival outings a fixed blade knife might be a better option for you.  A fixed blade knife is often larger and sturdier and is better suited to the stress that will be put on it in survival and big game hunting expeditions.   They are considered a stronger knife as they do not rely on a hinge to fold the knife.  The blade is made from one solid piece of metal and is part of the actual handle using a full tang.  In my opinion this is the highest quality fixed blade knife you can purchase.  The knife will be carried in a sheath that is worn around a belt, within a boot or around your leg.  The sheath that you will choose to carry your knife in with depends on the game you are hunting, the clothing you are wearing and personal comfort.  When venturing into deep woods camping or large game hunting looks into a good quality full tang fixed blade knife.

Several different types of blades are available on folding blades and fixed blade options.  The clip point and drop point blades are the most popular for hunters.  A clip point blade is best for smaller areas where as the drop point blade is best for skinning and larger animals.

Another blade option that is popular is the gut hook blade.  This style blade has a hooked end that is used to open the animals mid section without clipping into the entrails.  If choosing a gut hook blade look for one that has a wide opening to accept the thickness of the animals hide.  It is important to remember that the animals will have their winter coats, hair and hide so you will need a hook blade that is substantial to get through the animal.

In choosing a knife there are many brands to consider.  Some of the top brands are Boker Tree, Browning, Case and Zero Tolerance.  Take your time, do some research and get a feel for the knife you want.  Look around at stores but when it comes to the big purchase, check online as the deals are often far greater than what you can find in store.

Knife Mule

The More You Know The Better Off You Are In Logistics

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

When it comes to the shipping component to any business it is always a little bit confusing.  This is especially true when you ship items that are bigger than a standard parcel post but too small to require an entire truckload.  This is where less than truckload carriers come into the picture.  LTL carriers are discount freight shippers that ship parcels starting at around one hundred and fifty pounds per single pallet up to six thousand pounds or six pallets.  When shipping any more or less than specified it is less expensive to pay for parcel post or truckload shipping.

Frequently, less than truckload freight carriers combine shipments from several different business’s which together are equivalent to a truck load.  This allows them to offer discounts for freight while maintaining a profit.  Most Less than truckload freight is transported via a system know as a hub-and-spoke system which allows shipments to be transferred between trucks and freight mid-points until the shipment arrives at its final destination.

Below is a guide that helps to introduce you to less than truckload carrier’s rate classes.

Base rates are determined by each individual LTL freight carrier.  The base rate is the rate is the cost at which shipping starts.  The rate will go up from there dependent upon the weight, the miles travelled and where the package is shipped from and to.  Base LTL rates are often quoted based on one hundred pounds.  Base rates are determined by each individual LTL freight carrier.

The base rate is the rate is the cost at which shipping starts.  The rate will go up from there dependent upon the weight, the miles travelled and where the package is shipped from and to.  Base LTL rates are often quoted based on one hundred pounds.  This rate is then modified/discounted dependant on the volume of shipments shipped, how many lanes are needed to pace the shipment between trucks and freight as well as things such as fuel and special deliveries.

Your freight will also be classified based upon what you are shipping.  Is the freight dense and storable or is it high-risk freight that needs special care and handling. This will factor into the overall cost to ship your products. Think about the difference in shipping stones verses cotton padding.

Distance and weight are also two large considerations that help to define the amount you will be charged for your LTL shipment.  If the distance the package needs to travel to is within your normal range than you will not pay an increase to ship however if your shipment needs to go outside of the normal delivery range you will pay more for the special handling.  Weight is always a factor in how much your shipment will cost.  The heavier a shipment the more fuel that is needed to ship the goods.  With LTL, the benefit is that you are only paying for what you need to ship and not the entire weight of the truckload.

LTL helps save companies on their logistic budgets.  There are many companies that ship LTL.  To find a company that best suits your business check online.  Compare companies, reviews and quotes.  Just because you save money doesn’t necessarily mean you’re getting a good deal on shipping, the quality of the shipper must play a role as well.

Detroit LTL

Tips on Purchasing a House on a Golf Course

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Living on a golf course is a goal for many retirees that are looking for the relaxation and sport in the later years of life.  The attraction home buyers find when looking into purchasing a home on a golf course is undeniable.  Who would not want to stroll around on the well manicured landscape that comes with golf courses, the views and the attraction of walking out your front door and into a game of golf?  The truth is though that often times the allure fades fast when you are out walking the dog in the early morning hours in your own back yard only to find a stranger rummaging through your bushes to find his golf ball that disappeared.

Where ever you choose to live there are advantages and disadvantages that come along with the dream.  The thought of sitting on the deck, eating breakfast with your spouse watching the latest group of golfers pass by laughing and enjoying their round of golf is a delightful vision.  However the rowdy bachelor party golfing behind them, who are loud, crude and cursing not so much a delight.

Here you will find some things you will want to take into consideration before putting the down the payment on a new home situated on a golf course, the good and bad.

The hole in which your home is situated by plays a large part in helping to decide if the location on the golf course fits with what you are looking for.

If you are looking at a home by the tee you have the advantage of seeing a critical power shot.  The major disadvantage is that this is when people are most upset if their shot goes amiss.  Consider that a new group of golfers will tee off at any given spot every twenty minutes or so.

If you are considering a home that is in the middle of the hole to the right or to the left of it there are things to consider as well.  The view at this position is most often beautiful in landscape and it is a stunning view, most of the time, of the entire hole.  The major downside is that most golfers aren’t very good and their aim tends to spew balls in several crazy directions, one of which could be your home.  Those beautiful windows that open your home to the views and beauty of the course could be in harm’s way.

Homes set on the green are often ideal.  The shots that are taken here are usually shorter therefore less wild and less likely to be found in your window pane.  It is also usually very quiet as the putting green tends to be a place of great concentration for most golfers.  The disadvantage is that the greens tend to be mowed every day on many courses thus possibly interfering with your sleep.

Golf courses attract many home buyers to them each year so the advantages must outweigh the disadvantages.  The beauty of the landscape and well manicured lawns bring a peace only a beautiful natural environment can.  The best piece of advice any realtor specializing in golf course living will tell you is to talk, chat with the neighbors.  They will not be shy in telling you what annoys them about their community but more importantly will want to share everything that makes the environment one that you will want to purchase a home in.

Lake and Land Real Estate

Living the Dream With a Lake Front Home Purchase

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Many buyers come in looking to purchase a home on the water.  Lake living is a dream come true for many home buyers.  Living on the water comes with a serene reality of lazy days spent in the sun, enjoying some outdoor adventure.  This is what most buyers looking for water front property are looking for.  When considering a home on a lake there are a few things to think about before signing on the dotted line.

When you are considering a waterfront home you need to ask about the amount of waterfront property that your home is attached to.  In some lakes the land is cut up in an unnatural manner so you will want to ask specifically how much waterfront footage goes along with the house. This is especially important if you are looking to launch a boat.  In order to install a dock or pier you should aim to purchase a home with at least one hundred feet of waterfront acreage.  This is the number on piece of leverage you have when buying or selling a water front home.  This number increases or decreases the homes overall value.

Curb appeal is a hard thing for some to grasp when purchasing a home that is situated on the water.  The side of your home that is visible to the street is the area in which homeowners consider needing curb appeal.  This is however untrue in lake front living. When you purchase a home on a lake the front of the house is facing the water.  The front door of your home is the lake side, your front yard.  Many homes on the water will have the kitchen, dining room or bedroom facing the water so that the owner can enjoy the view.

When purchasing a home on a lake you will want to consider the type of lot you are purchasing with your home.  Are you hoping to use the lake for boating or is it just going to be for visual stimulation.  Flat lots of land on a lake often equate to shallow water where as steep lots often mean that the lake water has some depth to it.  Be sure to get information concerning the lake that you are looking to purchase a home on.  If you are looking to cruise around in a speed boat all day but find yourself in a shallow lake better suited for a pontoons’ snail pace you will be disappointed.

Another consideration is the purchase of flood insurance which will ultimately up the monthly out-put needed for lake living.  Some lake homes can get away with no flood insurance do to their location on the property.  For instance, if your home is on a steep hill that is an acre away from the water a land surveyor may be able to help you remove the restriction your mortgage company may place on your loan.  This is something to consider before closing on a home.  Flood insurance starts at around twelve hundred dollars a year on a home valued at around one hundred and fifty thousand dollars.

When really considering lake living, contact a real estate agent that specializes in lake homes. They will be the best equipped realtor to know the ins and outs of a great lake home.  They will know what to look for and what to stay away from.  They are also better versed in the surrounding bodies of water knowing which ones are all-sports lakes verse independent no-wake lakes.  Once you buy your dream home on a lake you will be ready to sit back and take in a big breath of fresh lake air.

Lake and Land Real Estate

Care For Your Pool Throughout The Winter

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Another swimming pool season has ended here in the North.  Most of us have closed are pool and will not think about them again until the Spring when we start to think about opening them again.  One thing that tends to wreak more havoc on swimming pools than little kids and their floaters is the drastic temperature changes that occur throughout the Winter months. Here you will find some things to consider during the Winter to help you stay ahead of the game to create a trouble-free opening and swimming season when we see the sun again.

Your pool motor is the first place we will begin.  During the winter the pool motor does not have to run all day at full power.  The motor cycle can be turned down to anywhere between three to five hours a day throughout the Winter.  The best time to do run the motor is during the early morning hours when temperatures are at their coldest to keep water moving through the pipes. This will help to prevent any standing water left in the pipe from freezing and will also keep pump seals from going bad.  A good time to run the motor is between two and eight in the morning.

If your pool has a salt chlorination generator it is best to remove the cell and replace it will a blank cell.  The cold water will not allow it to produce chlorine.  Once this is done take the cell that was in the generator and thoroughly clean it making sure it is in prime condition to re-install during the next swimming season.  To keep the pool at the correct chlorination throughout the Winter season you can add chlorine via a pool floater.  This will help expand the longevity of the generator as well as it is not trying to produce chlorine throughout the long, cold season.

When you are closing your pool for the Winter season it is the perfect time to change and replace the water in the pool.  The water may still appear clean and clear but still has all of the ingredients to mix together a good batch of residue, algae and bacteria.  It is easier to drain and refill the pool than dumping in lots of expensive chemicals trying to improve the pool water quality.

Cleaning the calcium off pool plaster and pool tile is best done as you are closing the pool for the season as well.  When the pool is drained or partially drained it is easy to access the interior of the pool.  The pool plastering should be cleaned for sure if you are completely draining the pool anyway.  You will be killing two birds with one stone.

Hiring a professional to maintain your pool and the pools plaster is just as important in the winter as in the summer especially if you know you will not make time to do it yourself.  The little bit extra you will pay for professional services will save you a ton of money and headaches come Spring when you start to think about opening the pool again.

 

Pound Pool Plastering

Don’t Forget About Business Insurance before Your Grand Opening

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Starting your own business comes with a lot of anticipation, responsibility and preparation.  When venturing into a new business there is a lot to look forward to and a lot to consider before opening the doors.  One thing that is often overlooked when starting up a business is insurance.  Business owners become so involved and wrapped up in aspects such as capital, funding, licenses, inventory, employees and everything else that often business insurance takes a back seat.  Insurance is essential to the success of your business, no matter what size your business is.

The risks involved in starting your own business are plentiful.  Without insurance business owners set themselves up for a huge fall should a disaster strike.  Unexpected circumstances surround us every day and therefore your business as well.  With basic general business insurance you at least have the ability to protect yourself and your family should anything happen when you are not prepared.

When looking for small business insurance coverage that meets you specific business needs it is wise to understand exactly what is available and what you need to be adequately covered. There are three basic types of business insurance; general liability insurance, property insurance and workers’ compensation insurance.

General liability insurance for business owners is available to cover people who come into harm’s way in or near your business during working/business hours.  If anything happens to any individual that is in your business general liability insurance helps to cover the expenses that will be incurred and will assist in settlement costs that can range from ongoing medical care, surgery, rehabilitation, home modifications and beyond. When you are speaking about physical or emotional care for someone you are considering a large sum of money.  General liability insurance is there to make sure that this is taken care.

The next type of insurance that is important for business owners to consider is property insurance.  Property insurance is available to protect the business in case of a catastrophic event in regards to the physical location and equipment used for the business.  Insurance that covers the property ensures that there are funds to cover renovations.  Many threats surround the physical location of a business including vandalism, theft, accidents and fires. It is so important that in business owners take time to insure their future stake in the business. Rebuilding a physical location along with equipment and inventory is a large cost that many businesses without insurance cannot recover.

Workers’ compensation is the last type of business insurance we will cover.  As the name stats workers compensation, often called workmens’comp, covers and compensates employees that are hurt, injured or disabled in a work related incident.  This insurance is incredibly valuable as it protects business owners from lawsuits if in fact an employee ever sues an employer claiming an illness or job related injury.

Commercial insurance policies should be tailor-made to your business while being affordable and effective.  A quality local insurance agent will understand the needs of businesses from your area along with specific special industry needs you may have.  Whatever you do, when starting a business, don’t forget to look into and purchase business insurance.  It may save your entire livelihood one day.

Cobb Hall

Business Insurance Protects Owners From Disasters Big and Small

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

No matter how successful your business is disaster could strike at any minute and in minutes ruin everything it has taken you years to create.  This is why business insurance, no matter how big or small the company, is so important. Businesses must carry insurance to alleviate the risk involved in unforeseen events.   When cutting costs and shrinking corners in your business expenses make sure you don’t lessen or stop your business insurance.  Sometimes it only takes one event, no matter the size, to completely disable everything you have worked for within your business. Below you will find things to consider when looking into insurance coverage for your small business.

The first thing to consider is insurance that covers acts of God and general business liability.  Acts of God are events that is out of human control such as floods, tornados, hurricanes and storms.  No one can control the outcome of a natural disaster thus why it is so important to have insurance to protect your business from one.  It is incredibly hard to predict a natural disaster in enough time to protect what you have built up from what is about to happen.  Insurance makes it so that you can rebuild and continue running your business once the dust settles.  General liability insurance covers a business owner for accidents.  For instance, if you own a computer repair company and while a client’s computer is in your shop a theft occurs.  Insurance protects you from liability to the client for the missing computer.

Another consideration is the laws regarding business in your state.  Legal requirements for businesses are done at the state level and often have strict rules out the type of insurance that needs to be purchased and how much coverage needs to be obtained.  Check to see about workers compensation, disability insurance and other state requirements.  Using a local in-state insurance agent for your business insurance needs will help to ensure that you are receiving knowledgeable information regarding your states business requirements.

Workers Compensation, property insurance and general liability are all incredibly beneficial types of business insurance coverage however do not help fill in the gap for reimburse lost profits.  The only type of insurance that covers you for reimbursement of lost profits is business interruption insurance.  This insurance keeps you up and running even after a disaster.  Disability insurance can be purchased to keep a steady income coming in shall you be disabled or too ill to run your company.  Likewise, insurance can be purchased for overhead expenses such as supplies and inventory as well if you should become disabled and cannot continue running your business.

Business insurance is purchased to protect your hard work.  When seeking out business insurance it is best to find one agent to purchase insurance from.  This ensures that they have a record of what you have at all times and can evaluate any missing pieces as your business grows and your insurance needs change. Business insurance agents will regularly assess your businesses risks by doing a risk assessment which helps to ensure that as your needs change so does your insurance.

 

Cobb Hall

Purchasing The Perfect Christmas Gift

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Christmas is right around the corner.  With holidays comes the stress of what to purchase for your significant other.  This stress is felt by so many couples.  Men tend not to think too deeply and therefore purchase something that is insulting or impractical as a gift.  While women tend to think of items that they would want, this is not exactly what a man wants as a gift.  A gift is supposed to be something impractical that one would not purchase for themselves.  You want to get an item that they will adore, something that shows them how much you think of them and what they mean to you.

Here is a guide that will help you shop without purchasing an insulting or impractical gift for your lady.

Appliances

No matter what she says she needs for the kitchen or house in general appliances are a terrible gift idea. Blenders, knives, toasters and mixers are all items that should be bought as a gift to the house not to your significant other.  Items that will be used by both of you are not usually a good bet as a gift to another person, especially when the purchase involves them preparing a meal for you for you or cleaning your joint home.

Cleaning Supplies

This falls in line with the above.  A vacuum, carpet cleaner or window washer is all items that tell your spouse you are unhappy with how clean the house is.  Again, don’t ever bring one of these homes on Christmas, an anniversary or even a hallmark holiday like sweetest day.  They are not meant to be given as a gift to a spouse but rather a gift to your home for both of you to use.  Never tell a woman I bought you something and walk in with a vacuum.  Instead say I bought something that we can both use around the house to make cleaning easier.  Guarantee the results you will see with the second phrase are far better than the first.

Candles, Lotions and Bath Stuff

Let’s face it, purchasing a candle, lotion or items for the bath basically screams I put zero thought into this gift.  These are everyday items that she will purchase for herself and your home.  This is a cop-out gift.  It tells her you could think of nothing else and were in a last minute bind so you copped out.

Cheap Perfume

Never is it okay to go into a convenience store to purchase your significant other perfume.  If you are not purchasing perfume from a boutique or department store then it most likely does not need to be purchased.  Women love to smell good which cheap fragrances do not.  A reputable perfume will start at around fifty dollars for a few ounces.  A great way to figure out a scent that you both enjoy is to take her to the mall one day and pass by the perfume counter and test out a few fragrances.  She will never suspect a thing but may get a few ideas of what you like as well.

Fake Diamonds and Cheap Jewelry

Diamonds and jewelry given as a gift should always be the real thing.  Women can spot a fake a mile away.  Anything fake is best not given as a gift. This is a huge hint men.  Don’t pass off handbags, jewelry or gemstones as the real thing it will come back to bite you.  Holidays are the perfect time to give a gift that you have invested time and money into when it comes to jewelry.  Charm bracelets, watches and necklaces are always a favorite for women. Consider her taste in metal and stones and purchase something from a reputable jeweler that she won’t be able to put down on Christmas morning.  Jewelry that has special meaning to the two of you will be a sure favorite for years to come.

Consider yourself armed with knowledge now and head on out to find the perfect gift for your spouse this holiday season!  A little thought, a lot of romance and sensitivity equals one well played gift and one lucky gift receiver (and giver).

DaRoche Jewelers