Livingston Reporting - page 23

WSU Veterinary Hospital Installs a New Linear Accelerator to Fight Cancer

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Washington State University’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital has significantly advanced its cancer treatment capabilities by installing a new linear accelerator (LINAC). This state-of-the-art technology is set to revolutionize the way cancer is treated in pets, offering advanced radiation therapy that can not only prolong lives but potentially cure various cancers.

Dr. Janean Fidel, a veterinary oncologist at WSU, emphasized the transformative potential of this machine in treating a wide range of cancers, including mast cell tumors, soft tissue sarcomas, and cancers affecting the oral, nasal, and brain regions. The new LINAC stands out for its precision in targeting cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues, a critical aspect of effective cancer treatment.

The installation of this LINAC, which involved fundraising efforts since 2018 amounting to over $1 million, replaces an older model acquired in 2010. Despite serving over 3,500 animals, the previous machine was plagued with frequent malfunctions. The new LINAC is a technological leap forward, offering enhanced accuracy, speed, and safety. It boasts submillimeter targeting accuracy and high dose rate delivery, greatly improving treatment outcomes by reducing unnecessary radiation exposure to healthy tissue and shortening treatment duration.

A notable feature of the new LINAC is its onboard imaging system, allowing operators to precisely locate tumors just before treatment, ensuring accurate alignment with the radiation beam. This system is a significant upgrade over older models that relied on film for imaging, which was less efficient and offered lower image quality.

The WSU oncology team has undergone extensive training to utilize this advanced machine. Dr. Raelynn Farnsworth, the chief medical officer of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, expressed gratitude to the donors who acquired this technology. This new equipment is expected to provide exceptional cancer treatment for pets, a rare service in the region.

Reference the original article at WSU.edu/news here.

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RadParts, a TTG Imaging Solutions Company, is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost components 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: www.cpsmi.com

RadParts

Unlocking the Benefits: How a Water Softener Can Help

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If you’ve ever dealt with hard water issues in your home, you may have heard about the magic solution known as a water softener. But what exactly does a water softener do, and why is it essential for households dealing with hard water? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of water softeners, exploring their function, benefits, and the difference they can make in your daily life.

Understanding Hard Water and the Effects of Iron and Manganese

Hard water contains high concentrations of minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium ions. These minerals are naturally present in groundwater and can create household problems when they accumulate in your plumbing and appliances.

Hard water-related issues encompass the corrosion and scaling within pipes, pervasive staining in showers, bathtubs, and sinks, and your water heater’s premature wear and tear. Scale build-up inside water heaters can insulate the temperature sensor within the tank, causing them to work harder to reach the desired temperature. Iron and manganese in water can also lead to unsightly rusty or black/brown staining and corrosion within the home.

What Does a Water Softener Do?

A water softener is a household appliance designed to combat the adverse effects of hard water. It operates using an ion exchange process, which involves removing calcium and magnesium ions from the water and replacing them with sodium or potassium ions.

A water softener proves highly efficient in eliminating the presence of hard water minerals, dissolved iron, and manganese in private wells that supply homes throughout Michigan. While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has not established specific limits for water hardness, these minerals, namely magnesium and calcium, can significantly compromise the quality of your home’s water. The EPA has set maximum allowable levels for iron and manganese as secondary contaminants at 0.3 and 0.05 parts per million, respectively. Although these concentrations seem minute, their impact can be quite substantial.

When addressing elevated levels of hard water minerals, iron, or manganese in your well water, the recommended solution is water softening.

What Does a Water Softener Remove?

A water softener effectively eliminates dissolved forms of iron, manganese, and hard water minerals. A cartridge filter with an appropriate micron rating becomes necessary to address particulate iron or manganese. Depending on the specific water conditions, this may involve using a series of filters with varying micron ratings to tackle higher levels of these contaminants in the water. A water treatment professional can best determine the suitable micron rating and filter style based on water test results and other relevant indicators.

How Does a Water Softener Work?

  • Ion Exchange: Water enters the water softener tank, flowing through a resin bed made of tiny resin beads. These beads are negatively charged, attracting positively charged calcium and magnesium ions.
  • Removal of Hardness Minerals: As the water passes through the resin bed, the calcium and magnesium ions bind to the resin beads, effectively removing them from the water.
  • Regeneration: Over time, the resin beads become saturated with hard minerals. The water softener flushes a brine solution (a saltwater mixture) through the resin tank to regenerate the resin and continue the softening process. This brine solution displaces the calcium and magnesium ions and recharges the resin beads with sodium or potassium ions.
  • Softened Water: The treated water, now free of calcium and magnesium ions, exits the softener and flows into your home’s plumbing system. This softened water is less likely to cause scale buildup, soap scum, or other hard water-related problems.

The Benefits of Using a Water Softener

There are many benefits to using a water softener, the primary being scale prevention. A softener prevents the accumulation of scale deposits in your pipes, appliances, and fixtures, which can extend the life of your plumbing system and appliances. With reduced scale buildup, your water heater and other devices will use less energy, potentially saving costs. Softened water is also gentler on your skin and hair, leaving you feeling cleaner and reducing dryness and irritation. It allows soap to lather more efficiently, reducing the amount of soap and detergent needed for cleaning and laundry.

A water softener is a valuable addition to any home or office facing challenging water issues. It’s a simple yet effective solution that can make a noticeable difference in the quality of your water. Consider installing a water softener or conditioning system to enjoy the many benefits of clean, softened water.

Contact Reynolds Water Conditioning today to discuss water solutions for your home or office!

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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 800-572-9575.

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

Reynolds Water

Gifting Support to End Cancer

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Here at J&P, we are all too familiar with the heartache that comes from losing a loved one far too soon. Cancer is the second-leading cause of death worldwide. Ten million people die from cancer every year.

A donation to the American Cancer Society is more than a financial gift. It is a lifeline for the entire cancer community and one more step toward a future without cancer.

Because of generous, passionate donors, The American Cancer Society can improve the lives of people with cancer and their families through:

•           Providing essential patient support

•           Advocating for important issues like health equity and more affordable care for all

•           Funding breakthrough research that saves lives

If you, our loyal customers, are seeking a way to help an incredibly important cause, please join us in making a tax-deductible donation to the American Cancer Society and help us get one step closer to a future without cancer.

Donate to the American Cancer Society Here

The J&P Electrical team sincerely appreciates your support for this cause. We wish everyone a blessed and delightful holiday season filled with love and joy.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

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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: www.cpsmi.com

J & P Electrical Company

Economic Factors Influencing Commercial Property Loans

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In the dynamic world of commercial real estate financing, understanding the myriad economic factors influencing commercial property loans can be complicated, to say the least. Commercial lending is not just figures on a balance sheet; they are deeply affected by various macro- and microeconomic elements. Numerous factors play pivotal roles, from the overarching health of the economy to the specific conditions in the real estate market. In this article, we briefly review the key economic influences, such as interest rates, economic growth, inflation, and more, that shape the world of commercial property lending.

Economic Growth: The overall health of the economy impacts commercial property loans. In a growing economy, businesses expand, increasing the demand for commercial properties and, consequently, for loans. Conversely, in a downturn, loan demand may decrease.

Real Estate Market Conditions: The supply and demand dynamics in the real estate market influence commercial property values and the perceived risk of lending for such projects.

Fluctuating Interest Rates: Are among the mostsignificant factors affecting commercial property loans. Higher interest rates can lead to increased borrowing costs, influencing both the demand for loans and the feasibility of commercial real estate projects.

  • Impact on Real Estate: High-interest rates can significantly affect commercial real estate, especially for owners with near-term debt maturities or investors looking to develop or acquire properties​​.
  • Lending and Investment Strategies: Rising interest rates can lead to a reevaluation of deal economics, with lenders becoming cautious about the impact on debt service coverage ratios​.

Stabilizing Inflation: High inflation can lead to higher interest rates, which can increase the cost of borrowing. It can also affect the value of properties and rental incomes, impacting the feasibility of commercial real estate investments.

  • Construction and Operating Costs: Inflation directly impacts property construction and operating costs. Costs driven by supply chain disruptions and increased wages due to worker shortages are significant factors​​.
  • Utilities and Insurance: Costs for utilities and property insurance are also likely to remain high, partly due to climate change and geopolitical factors​​.

Consumer Confidence and Recession: The fear of a recession can impact consumer spending and investment decisions. Additionally, the level of consumer confidence significantly influences the retail and hospitality sectors, affecting both the demand for and value of these properties.

Global Economic Trends: In today’s interconnected world, global economic trends can have a significant impact on local economies and, by extension, on commercial property loans.

Government Policies: Regulatory policies, including zoning laws, tax policies, and real estate regulations, can impact commercial property investment and lending. For instance, favorable tax treatment for certain types of properties can stimulate demand for loans.

Employment Rates: Employment levels in an area can affect the demand for commercial real estate. Higher employment usually leads to increased demand for office and retail spaces, influencing the number of commercial property loans.

Lender Confidence and Credit Availability: Economic factors can affect lenders’ confidence and their willingness to finance commercial real estate projects. Financial stability tends to make lenders more willing to issue loans, while instability can make them more cautious. The broader availability of credit in the financial system can impact how easily borrowers can secure commercial property loans.

How the market responds is based on sector-specific impacts. Various commercial property sectors respond differently to these economic factors. For example, hospitality and retail might be cushioned against a downturn due to low unemployment rates and high job openings​​. Understanding these factors is crucial for investors, developers, and lenders in making informed decisions about commercial property investments and loans.

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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: www.cpsmi.com

EB Mortgage

How Gunite Pools Are Constructed?

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This month, we continue with our blog discussion of what a gunite pool is and how its constructed.The construction of a gunite pool starts with excavation using heavy machinery to create a hole matching the desired depth, width, shape, and size of the pool. After the area is prepared, the next step involves setting up the pool’s plumbing and reinforcing the walls and floor with steel rebar, forming a robust framework for the application of gunite. Unlike other concrete forms like shotcrete, which may not bond effectively when applied in stages, leading to structural issues or aesthetic flaws, gunite concrete is unique. Its high-pressure application and late-stage water mixing allow skilled nozzle operators to apply gunite over several days without compromising the pool’s structural integrity or appearance.How Long Does Gunite Pools Need to Cure?  After the gunite process is complete, the concrete must undergo a curing period before the pool can be filled with water. This curing process typically lasts about one month, which allows the particles and molecules in the concrete mixture to fully bond, achieving maximum strength and durability. While it’s feasible to apply additional layers of gunite during this curing phase, doing so can prolong the overall curing duration. Therefore, most gunite pool builders aim to finish the gunite application swiftly to avoid extended curing times. Additionally, adverse weather conditions can disrupt the curing process.The Finishing Touches of a Gunite Pool The exterior of a fully cured gunite swimming pool is usually covered with materials like plaster, tile, or other finishing options to ensure a uniform surface texture and color. This step often occurs at least a month after the final gunite application. During this curing period, the pool builder typically installs coping around the pool’s edge and constructs the patio area. Additionally, while waiting for the gunite to cure, the builder might also work on installing various add-ons and accessories included in the pool project. These can include fencing, retaining walls, landscaping, and external water features that don’t need to be integrated within the pool itself.How Long Does It Take to Build a Gunite Pool? The entire process of constructing a gunite pool typically spans three to six months. However, recent shortages of supplies and labor may extend the construction schedule. Because gunite pools can be customized to any size, shape, and depth, with just about any feature imaginable, estimating a timeline  without knowing the details is challenging. Additionally, costs vary from state to state and are based on the size, complexity, and materials used.Maintaining Your Gunite PoolAll pools require maintenance. On average, gunite pools maintain their original finish for 10-15 years, depending on maintenance quality, whether indoors, and exposure to extreme temperature changes, among other factors. Generally, the most significant costs for maintaining a pool are related to chemicals and electricity for heating more than any other expenses. However, the initial expense for acid washing or replastering services can also be substantial.If you are considering a new inground pool or renovating or repairing your current pool, now is the time to research and find a qualified gunite expert, such as Pound Pool Plastering. Contact us today to schedule a consultation for your upcoming project!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 email us for a free estimate.  Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Pound Pool Plastering

The Benefits of Managed IT Services

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Managed IT services allow businesses to delegate their IT responsibilities to an external provider through contractual or subscription-based arrangements. These services help reduce the burden on internal IT teams, supplement their efforts if they are overwhelmed, or even serve as a complete replacement. Managed service providers (MSPs) usually offer 24/7 IT support and bring specialized skills and expertise that might not be available in-house.

There are numerous benefits to Managed IT services; we list the most significant advantages below:24/7 Monitoring: With continuous monitoring of networks and systems, MSPs can detect and prevent issues before they escalate, ensuring uptime and reliability. Providers ensure that security measures are up to date, reducing the risk of cyber threats with regular audits, patch management, and updated security protocols to safeguard business data. Also, by outsourcing IT tasks, businesses can focus on their core skills and strategic objectives rather than getting bogged down by computer issues.Cost-Efficiency: Outsourcing IT operations can reduce the need to hire in-house staff, leading to lower labor costs and overhead, yet are just as reliable. As businesses grow, their IT needs change. Managed IT services can quickly scale to meet these growing demands without the challenges of hiring and training additional personnel. Additionally, a fixed monthly fee covers most services, allowing businesses to avoid unexpected expenses. With proactive system monitoring and maintenance, MSPs help you remain compliant while reducing downtime and outages and making your business efficient.Expertise and Experience: Managed IT service providers typically have a wide range of knowledge that may be hard to replicate with an in-house team. This ensures that businesses have access to specialists when needed. Also, MSPs often have established relationships with technology vendors, which can lead to faster resolution times and potential discounts. Managed IT services often include backup solutions and disaster recovery plans, ensuring business continuity in the face of unforeseen incidents. With expert advice and guidance, you can gain peace of mind knowing that your MSP has your data backups and security handled.By leveraging managed IT services, businesses can enjoy these benefits and more, often leading to enhanced productivity and reduced risks while saving significant costs. You don’t have to be tech-savvy or know all the ins/outs of the IT world; MRPs do it for you! CPS has almost 30 years of experience in the industry, so you know we’ve got your back! We get to know your business like our own so we can run your IT properly. Contact us for a free consultation and see how we can help you. ____________Founded in 1994, Creative Programs and Systems delivers professional results for all your computer needs. We design, create, and code various custom software programs and websites. Additionally, we offer superior digital marketing services, including enhanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and paid advertising. We also repair and support commercial computer infrastructure, build custom systems and servers, and provide secure data backups. Need assistance or want to learn more? Call (810)224-5252 or email info@cpsmi.com us!Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Creative Programs and Systems

Banks vs. Private Lenders in Commercial Property Financing

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When comparing commercial property financing options between banks and private lenders, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of each. It’s also imperative to take into effect how economic factors like interest rates, market trends, and economic cycles can influence the availability and terms of these loans. Read on to discover more.

Basics of Bank Lending

  • Lower Interest Rates: Banks are generally able to offer lower interest rates than private lenders​ because they serve larger populations​.
  • Regulation and Standards: Banks are subject to state and federal regulations, making them more stringent in their lending criteria. This means they often have higher lending standards, making it difficult for borrowers with less-than-ideal financial histories to qualify​​.
  • Credit and Financial History: Banks tend to focus on the borrower’s credit and documented income sources, making it challenging for self-employed borrowers to qualify​​.

Basics of Private Lending

  • Flexible and Fast Lending: Private lenders are known for their flexibility and quick processing. They are a go-to option in urgent financing situations​​.
  • Higher Interest Rates and Costs: Private lenders sometimes charge higher interest rates and have other costs like legal fees, which are eventually passed over to the borrower​​.
  • Customizable and Less Rigid: Private lenders offer more customizability in loan terms and are less rigid in their qualifying standards, such as credit scores and debt-to-income levels​​.
  • Creative and Investigative Lending Standards: Private lenders are often more creative in their loan processing standards and may overlook certain background flaws if the borrower can provide a reasonable explanation​​.

Choosing the Right Finance Lender

If you have a solid, strong financial history, good credit, and proof of income, and you’re not in a hurry to obtain financing, then a bank may be a better choice due to its lower rates. However, if you have a more challenging financial history and your need for funds is more urgent, a private lender might be a more suitable option. The right financing choice ultimately depends on your unique circumstances and financial goals.

Take Economic Factors into Consideration

The choice between banks and private lenders for commercial property financing depends on various factors, such as the borrower’s financial history, the type of property, and the urgency of financing needs. Additionally, economic factors like interest rates, inflation, and the risk of recession can significantly influence the terms and availability of commercial property loans, with each sector responding differently to these macroeconomic variables. Choosing the right financing requires carefully evaluating your financial circumstances and considering the broader economic conditions.

We make obtaining commercial loans easy. Contact EB Mortgage today to learn more!

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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: www.cpsmi.com

EB Mortgage

Successful Tips for November Deer Hunting

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For hunters, November is an exciting and favored month. It’s a pivotal time for deer hunters, marked by the peak rutting (breading) season and the unique behavioral patterns of deer. It’s also the period for open deer hunting on public and private lands for archery and firearms in most local areas. We provide insights and strategies for successful deer hunting, gathered from various experienced hunters and experts.

Week-by-Week Breakdown of November Deer Hunting

November 1-6:

Pre-Rut Behavior: Bucks are in the pre-rut stage, actively rubbing and scraping, and beginning to search for does, though the does are not yet receptive.

Hunting Strategies: Focus on areas near scrapes and use calling tactics. Ideal locations include staging areas, near buck or doe bedding areas, saddles, pinch-points, and funnels. Treestand hunting is highly effective during this period​​.

November 7-13:

Lock-Down Phase: Some does enter estrus, leading to a lock-down phase where bucks stay close to a doe. This can make hunting challenging as bucks tend to be less mobile.

Hunting Approach: Continue using tactics from the end of the first week. Position yourself near a thick brush or other dense cover where bucks might pursue does​​.

November 14-20:

Post Lock-Down Phase: The lock-down phase generally ends, and deer movement increases again.

Tactics: Adopt the same strategies as in the first week, with added caution due to increased hunting pressure. Consider hunting near leeward ridges, trail intersections, and pockets of cover​​.

November 21-30:

Late Rut Activity: Bucks revert to seeking and chasing behaviors, and big bucks are more active. Younger bucks might show decreased activity due to fatigue.

Strategy: Hunt as in the first two weeks but consider moving deeper into cover to adapt to hunting pressure and changing deer patterns. Be ready to switch to late-season tactics if rut activity decreases​​.

Additional Hunting Strategies and Tips

  1. Hunting Thicker Cover: During the lock-down phase, focus on heavier cover areas, often referred to as “heat cover,” where does in heat might isolate themselves. This can attract bucks checking on prospective mates​​.
  • Choosing Hunting Days: Utilize tools like Drury’s DeerCast to select the best days for hunting based on game camera activity and rut predictions. Consider hunting throughout the day, especially midday, as this period can be surprisingly active​​.
  • Rub Lines: Locate rub lines to find areas where mature bucks are active. Trail cameras can be strategically placed along these lines to monitor deer movement and identify potential targets​​.
  • Run-and-Gun Method: This tactic involves moving hunting locations frequently, especially on public land where deer are wary of human presence. It’s effective for adapting to deer movement patterns and avoiding over-pressuring a specific area​​.
  • Mock Scrapes: Creating mock scrapes can be an effective tactic to attract bucks, particularly when enhanced with the right scents and placed strategically near your stand​​.
  • Scent Control: Rigorous scent control is crucial for hunting mature whitetails. This includes using scent elimination products, managing what you eat before the hunt, and understanding wind direction to stay downwind of your target​​.

Successful November deer hunting requires an understanding of deer behavior during the rut, strategic placement of stands and blinds, the use of trail cameras and rub lines for scouting, adaptability in hunting tactics, and meticulous scent control. With patience, observation, and the right approach, November can be an extremely rewarding time for deer hunters.

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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 need it later.

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

Wolf Survival Gear

Unwanted Guests: Bed Bug Inspection & Discreet Extermination

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When it comes to pests invading your space, few are as unsettling and persistent as bed bugs. These tiny, bloodsucking insects can infest homes and commercial properties, causing discomfort, stress, health concerns, and even loss of income. If you suspect a bed bug infestation in your Colorado property, it is crucial to address it promptly. This article explains how we at Front Range Pest assess and eradicate these insects discretely and effectively.

Identifying the Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation

Bed bugs are notoriously skilled at hiding, but they do leave behind some telltale signs. Here’s what to look for when inspecting your property:

  • Bite Marks: Itchy, red, and often clustered bite marks on your skin, particularly in a linear pattern, can be a strong indicator of bed bug presence.
  • Tiny Rust-Colored Stains: Bed bugs often leave behind small bloodstains on sheets and mattresses, a result of their feeding habits.
  • Exoskeletons and Eggs: Check the seams and crevices of your mattress, furniture, and walls for discarded exoskeletons and tiny, pearly-white eggs.
  • Musty Odor: Bed bugs emit a distinctive, sweet, and musty odor. If you detect this scent, it’s a sign of a substantial infestation.

Why Choose Front Range Pest for Bed Bug Problems

Front Range Pest is your trusted partner in discreetly exterminating bed bugs. Here’s why you should consider their services:

  • Expertise: Our technicians are highly trained in bed bug identification and removal, ensuring thorough and effective extermination.
  • Discretion: We understand the sensitive nature of bed bug issues, and we prioritize prudence,   attempting to avoid drawing attention to your property.
  • Safe and Effective Treatments: We employ safe, environmentally friendly treatments to eliminate bed bugs without harming your family, pets, or the environment.
  • Follow-Up Inspections: After treatment, our techs will conduct follow-up inspections to ensure all bed bugs are eradicated, giving you peace of mind.

Our Bed Bug Extermination Process

Front Range Pest follows a comprehensive approach to exterminating bed bugs:

  • Assessment: We assess the extent of the infestation to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
  • Treatment: We employ a combination of heat treatments, chemical treatments, and specialized equipment to eliminate bed bugs at all stages of their life cycle.
  • Prevention: We provide recommendations to prevent future infestations, including tips for maintaining a bed bug-free environment.

Bed bugs can quickly turn your home or commercial property into an uncomfortable and stressful space. When dealing with a bed bug infestation, acting quickly to remove them is essential. The experts at Front Range Pest can help you identify and eliminate bed bugs, ensuring your peace of mind and the safety of your loved ones or customers.

Don’t let bed bugs take over – contact Front Range Pest to regain control of your space today!

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Front Range Pest is your trusted, family-owned pest and wildlife control company serving central Colorado and southern Wyoming. Our certified technicians have the expertise and credentials to ensure effective pest management for your home or business. As your all-in-one insect and wildlife specialists, we offer peace of mind by identifying wildlife entry points, removing nuisance pests, sealing access areas, performing cleanup, and making essential repairs. Schedule an inspection with us today.

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

Front Range Pest

Construction Industry Tops Ransomware Risk, Says Encryption Software Study

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Nordlocker, an encryption software firm, conducted research in 2021 and found that the construction industry faced the highest risk of ransomware attacks among 35 analyzed industries. This risk has increased since then, with Nordlocker reporting in 2023 that the construction sector experienced the most ransomware attacks from January 2022 to January 2023.

The construction industry’s growing reliance on digital technology, particularly computer-aided design (CAD), building information modeling (BIM), and cloud-based collaboration tools, has made it a vulnerable target for cyberattacks. Many organizations in this sector lack adequate cybersecurity plans and have poorly trained employees in identifying and responding to cyber threats.

Ransomware, a malicious attack where data is encrypted and a ransom is demanded for access restoration, poses a significant threat. Paying the ransom doesn’t guarantee data recovery, and the average cost of a ransomware breach is around $4.44 million, damaging a company’s reputation.

Fraudulent wire transfers, phishing scams using social engineering, and compromised emails are prevalent in the construction industry. Cybercriminals impersonate authoritative figures to manipulate financial transactions.

The construction sector is also at risk of intellectual property and data theft, which can lead to significant reputational damage. Protecting sensitive information, such as SSNs, credit card data, and proprietary designs and patents, is crucial to mitigating these cyber threats.

Six Essential Steps to Strengthen Your Construction Service’s Cybersecurity

Privileged Access Management:

Continuously monitor and assess access rights to safeguard your information.

Data Governance and Security:

Categorize data by sensitivity and prioritize the protection of critical data assets.

Regular Secure Backups:

Mitigate potential data and system loss in the event of cyberattacks.

Team Member Education:

Ensure your team is well-informed about industry-specific cyber risks and can recognize and report social engineering attempts.

Enforce Cybersecurity Standards in Contracts:

Reduce third-party risks by requiring external partners to adhere to robust cybersecurity practices.

Implement an Incident Response Plan:

Define immediate actions and strategies to minimize potential losses in the event of a cyberattack.

Boost your cybersecurity defenses today; we’re here to help address your inquiries.  

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At Construction Bonding Specialists, we work with new and experienced contractors to find the most satisfactory bond solutions. As a dedicated surety-bond-only agency with decades of bonding experience, we strive to discover surety solutions for all types of cases, ranging from routine to challenging. Contact us online or call us at 248-349-6227 to learn more.

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

Construction Bonding Specialists