Livingston Reporting - page 287

Camping While Exploring The Great Outdoors

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Great adventures find us throughout life.  One of the most thrilling experiences that a person can have is to become one with nature.  This experience is different for each individual person.  Some find their adventure in the water, some on a trail hiking, others backpacking alone in the hills of foreign lands while some prefer to take in wilderness sitting in a flower garden in their yard.  No matter how you choose to connect to the world around you it goes uncontested that connecting with nature is a personal experience unique to each of us.

One way many people choose to connect with nature while including time with family is through camping.  The camping experience is once again something that varies from person to person, family to family and situation to situation.  For some camping means really roughing it; slinging a backpack on their back and heading into the great outdoors with nothing more than a few essential survival tools to assist in the adventure.  Some prefer modern camping in a luxury recreational vehicle where everything is at your finger tips as far as convenience.  Some prefer something in between the two.

When it comes to middle of the row camping which is what most of us are familiar with there are a few basic things that are essential to creating a perfect outing for you and your family to explore the good ole outdoors.  No matter what climate, terrain or environment you are exploring one necessity of camping is shelter.  The most common form of camping shelter is in the form of a tent.  A waterproof, sturdy tent will supply you a safe place away from the natural elements to allow your body to rest.

Along with a tent you will want to bring along some basic comforts such as sleeping bags and cooking supplies.  Also consider some camping basics such as a pocket knife, boots to hike in, fishing and hunting supplies, flashlights, food, water purification, waterproof matches and a basic first aid kit.  You really don’t need to go overboard in bringing supplies along because believe it or not the wilderness will provide you everything you need. Travel as light as possible so that instead of worrying about camping gear you can take the time you have to really soak in and enjoy what the natural world around us has to offer.

Whatever your next great wilderness adventure keep the focus on what is truly important.  It isn’t the fancy camping gear but the thrill of exploration and enjoying your time with Mother Nature that is significant.

KnifeMule.com is an online retailer specializing in a variety of specialty knives, outdoor survival gear and tactical gear including top brands such as Zero Tolerance, Boker Tree Knives, W.R. Case Knives and more.  For more information or to purchase outdoor gear and knives online find us at https://www.knifemule.com.

Knife Mule

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Essentials In Outdoor Survival Gear

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

With summer upon us the camping supplies come out!  With the camping supplies come the adventures the warm sun and summer breeze brings out.  With every camping trip and backpacking adventure the need to be prepared is always amongst us.  When it comes to packing for your outdoor adventures one can never be too careful.  Wilderness survival gear should be packed using great care; every adventurer should realize that there are extreme risks involved when it comes to the unknown that the outdoors brings with it.

When it comes to packing for an adventure the most important thing is that you are prepared for the unexpected.  Make the right choices when it comes to survival equipment as it may be the difference between life and death on your next camping excursion.  With the wide variety of survival gear available how does an inexperienced camper know what to bring on their first great adventure?  What is important verse what becomes a waste of space within your backpack?

The first thing any outdoor adventurer should do is to create a list of what is needed on where they are going, what they are doing and how they are getting there.  Different climates, as well as different terrains will call for a mix of different outdoor wilderness needs. This should be obvious; the desert needs different preparations than would a rain forest.

Some things that are needed no matter what the terrain or climate and should be in every pack include the basics such as fuel for a fire, a compass or other navigational tool, a way to purify water and a knife to assist in building a shelter.

Fire is needed for many reasons no matter what climate you are backpacking in.  Not only is fire a good source of heat but it is also important for lighting, cooking and possible water purification.  Consider purchasing slow burning fire sticks, magnesium fire starters, flint or waterproof matches. These are all great sources that will allow fire to be created and sustained in a variety of climates.

A compass or other navigational tools such as GPS or paper maps are important when exploring territory that is unknown or new to you.  When looking to purchase a compass be sure it is easy to use.  GPS systems are great tools that can be used to not only track the environment you are in but also used to track and identify where you are.  This feature often requires a subscription.  When it comes to a low tech gadget that will direction a compass is the best bet for backpacking adventures.

A system to purify water is also essential in outdoor adventures.  The human body can only be without water for between three days and one week.  Water is needed for the body to survive.  When you are lost in the wilderness the last thing you need is to become sick and dehydrated from drinking contaminated water.  Purchase water purification tablets and purification straws are without a doubt one of the most important items that should be contained within your survival pack.

For food and building shelter a knife is also an item that should be carried on any outdoor adventure no matter how long or short the adventure is scheduled to be.  Even the shortest of trips have been known to take a wrong turn into unexpected territory.  Be prepared for anything every time you camp or back pack into territory that is unique to you.

KnifeMule.com is an online retailer specializing in a variety of specialty knives, outdoor survival gear and tactical gear including top brands such as Zero Tolerance, Boker Tree Knives, W.R. Case Knives and more.  For more information or to purchase outdoor gear and knives online find us at https://www.knifemule.com.

Knife Mule

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Every Divorce Is Unique

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Everyone knows at least one couple who has been through or is going through a divorce. When a couple is separating there are two types of friends; those that share too many details about their divorce and those who share nothing. What you need is a friend who has been through the process that is willing to lend an ear and offer advice as needed based upon their experiences. Each divorce experience is different, learn lessons and take advice from others but understand your divorce is unique.

The first thing you need to do when your considering a divorce or you find yourself served with divorce papers is to consult a reputable divorce attorney. I know, I know, that is obvious however even if you don’t thing a divorce attorney is affordable you still need to talk to one. Many offer free consultations and low cost alternatives to those who can’t afford a divorce attorney throughout their entire divorce process. Going through a divorce without any legal representation will end up costing more than just financially in the end. Even in an uncontested divorce hiring a divorce attorney is needed. Hire legal representation before signing anything that has to do with your divorce.

This too may seem obvious but many couples forget; put your children and their needs before anything else when you are going through a divorce. Children are not to be used as pawns during your divorce. They are innocent victims. Your divorce is as difficult if not more difficult on them than it is either of you. Throughout the process be conscious of your divorce and the effects it is having on your children. Their best interest is in fact the only thing the two of you must agree upon during the entire process. Children thrive in an environment that both parents are included in. Consider this before dragging them into your mess and before denying them from seeing their other parent.

Consider who you trust with information pertaining your divorce. Some advice is nice but too much can lead to issues. Don’t bring a new mate into your divorce, don’t rely on only family when going through a divorce; find one or two people to trust with the most sensitive details of your divorce and turn to them during your crisis. Involving too many people brings in to play a lot of opinions and advice that may not apply. Too many opinions cloud your judgment and can lead to rash decisions.

Consider mediation as trials are not something that is needed for every divorce or something that everyone is prepared for. When you go to trial your divorce becomes something that is then put into total stranger’s hands and is removed from yours. Divorces settled through trial can take time, a lot of money as well as expensive attorneys. Consider going through mediation with your spouse, roll up your sleeves and come up with a compromise that both of you can live with that is appropriate for the needs of your entire family.

In the end, after your divorce is finalized it is important that you remember what is important to you. The microwave and sofa might seem like trivial things when all is said and done. Think about the emotional toll that your divorce is having on you and your family when considering what is worth fighting for. From the start consider what you are hoping for by the end and don’t stress over the little things. Everything is replaceable except time with your children so consider that when mediating over each and every other minor detail of your divorce.

Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Men/Dad’s in divorce. For experienced representation throughout the divorce process in Trenton, Michigan and the surrounding area you can find more information at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerfordad.com.

Longton Law

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Divorce Done Amicably

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When you enter into marriage the assumption is that you will stay married until death do you part.  No one goes in thinking about the day there marriage will end in divorce however it happens more often than not now a day.  If a divorce is eminent in your relationship and you are wondering how you can stay on good terms with your ex read on.  Amicable divorces are important especially when children are involved and also when it comes to mutual friends and with the division of assets and liabilities.

The first thing to remember when trying to achieve an amicable divorce is that your children should never be put in the middle of anything.  They are the most important thing that you and your spouse have in common.  They will always be something that you created and share together.  Your children will be affected by your divorce enough as is don’t add to it by making them a part of any decisions that need to be made.  Sit down and discuss a custody arrangement that works to meet both of your needs as parents remembering that your children will thrive in a situation where both parents stay equally involved in their lives.  Consistency is the key when it comes to arranging a working situation and plentiful relationship with your children.  A situation that is feasible for both partners will benefit your children.

When going through a divorce consider dividing the assets rationally and as peacefully as possible.  When you actually sit to discuss what each of you wants and don’t want you may be surprised to find that this is an easier process than you ever thought.  Your spouse may have agreed to a dog to make you and the kids happy but has no interest in keeping the pet you love so dearly.  The same can be said for tangible household items and cars.  Your spouse may have bought certain items to make you happy and therefore there is not any attachment to the object therefore making it easy to surrender.  Of course there will be items you both hold dear; think about the division of these assets in consideration with the larger picture.  This process will be a lot of give and take.  The same process can be achieved with liabilities as well.

Even if you know that the divorce is going to happen counseling can still help especially when it comes to splitting on good terms.  A counselor offers a safe environment to speak from the heart and talk about your shared experiences from your prospective.  This process can help you understand where your spouse is coming from and vise versa.

If you are planning on staying friendly with one another it is important that you hold your tongue; this is especially important in front of family and friends.  Nothing good ever comes from speaking ill of your spouse so it is best to just keep those thoughts to yourself.  When you are choosing to stay in contact and on peaceful terms with your spouse speaking negatively will not help nurture the relationship you are hoping for.  When it comes to your children really keep your negative feelings and thoughts to yourself.  When you and your ex disagree on situations regarding the children it is best to talk about those issues in private.  Your children, family and friends should not be privy to this information; issues should be kept private and dealt with in a civil manner between you and your ex only.  This will keep your divorce and relationship more peaceful overtime.

Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Women/Mom’s in divorce throughout Trenton and the surrounding Michigan areas. Find us at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerforwomen.com.

Longton Law

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Product Labels Influence Purchasing Decisions

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

We all make choices when shopping.  What makes a consumer choose one product over another?  Many times it comes down to brand name loyalty but what about newly introduced products?  What draws your attention to new products?  The most common answer to that question is the packaging and label.  Your products label is the last marketing chance you have; below you will find a variety of tips on getting your product purchased.

Labels are created when introducing new products as well as when companies are looking to reintroduce a product.  Reintroduction of a product comes when companies see a drop in consumer purchases and wants to draw attention to their product again.  When creating a label, color is an important element.  Before any words are read colors are seen and attention is drawn.  This happens within a half a second.  Create a label with colors that speak to consumers and grab their attention.

Consistency should be maintained throughout your brand.  The colors that are used within your packaging and label design should be carried through to other areas of consumer communication including coupons, flyers, promotions and your website.  Customers will come to identify your product without reading a word.

Another common use of color is identifying between different flavors within a product line.  If you are offering a scent or taste that is often related to a certain color incorporate that within the label as well.  This helps consumers choose from a large variety of flavors without sifting through your entire product line.

Labels should also use images to convey their brand. An image, as is with colors conveys the brand without using any words at all.  Images are quick identifiers that communicate quickly.  They are catchy to the eye and are more interesting than a pile of text.

When it comes to the text be choosey with what font you select.  Choose a font that fits your product and contributes to the aesthetics of your labels colors and images.  Everything should work together to enhance the brand and product image.

Consider the size of your products package and match the size of the label to it.  A label that is too small or too large can either go unnoticed or noticed for the wrong reasons.  A large label can be wrinkly and over take the product whereas a label that is too small can fly under the radar and go without notice.

Don’t forget to add all the necessary information that is required on the label as well.  Mandatory information concerning the nutritional value of the product as well as company contact information should be easily found without taking away from the aesthetics of the label itself.

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your label design, printing and packaging needs.

Anchor Printing

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The Benefits of Shrink Sleeve Labeling

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When it comes to manufactures looking for packaging there are an abundance of options to choose from.  Many are turning to the convenience of shrink sleeve packaging and labeling because of the wide range of advantages it offers over other forms of packaging and labeling.  When you walk through the aisles at the grocery store you will find that shrink sleeve marketing is incredibly prominent throughout different products lines including beverages, nutritional supplements, and chemical packages.

One of the advantages of using shrink sleeves is that they help to differentiate your products shape and offer a three hundred and sixty degree graphic.  They truly stand out and grab your customer’s attention when on display for sale.  Shrink sleeves can be designed to accentuate your products unique shape.  This is a significant advantage to product marketing especially when the design of your products package is unique.  Shrink sleeves will accentuate the shapes difference amongst competitors.

Another major benefit of shrink sleeve packaging is the tamper proof seals that it offers.  The shrink sleeve wrapper is often made to fit over the entire product, especially in beverage packaging.  Tampering with this type of product packaging is almost impossible to get away without noticing the issue.

The shrink sleeve label allows for complete three hundred and sixty design graphics and one hundred percent visibility.   In other types of packaging the label is concentrated on the front of the package.  This overlooks the sides and back of the product which is valuable product advertising space.  With shrink sleeve packaging the entire label can be used to advertise and bring attention to your product.

Another benefit of shrink sleeve labeling is the versatility it offers with different packaging materials.  It works with metallic, pearlescent and thematic materials to create different effects on your product label. If you can dream it, shrink sleeve labels can create it without the difficulty that exists in other types of packaging and labeling.

The expense of packaging and labeling products is often considerable however with shrink sleeves this is not the case.  It is an affordable option that offers a higher degree of visibility for your product over a variety of different package and labeling options.

When it comes to product marketing your packaging and label design are of the utmost important aspects.  With the numerous advantages that shrink sleeves offer it is hard to imagine why you would choose any other type of product labeling and packaging option.

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your label design, printing and packaging needs.

Anchor Printing

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The Benefits of Flexible Packaging

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When it comes to packaging your products flexible packaging has become a widely used method for a variety of products from food products and beverages to chemicals and detergents.  With a variety of designs and packaging patterns flexible packaging is revolutionizing the way manufactures offer their products for sale.  The benefits of flexible packaging are plentiful.

One of the most favorable benefits found with flexible packaging is that it is able to be customized according to the demands of the product.  Flexible packaging materials offer a variety of shapes and sizes to allow for customization to the needs of the product.  The packaging is able to be dyed and cut into any shape and sizes making the product appealing to consumers.

Creativity allows your product to stand out from competitors.  With flexible packaging the product and brand can be set apart from the competition.  Flexible product pouches offer unlimited creative options when it comes to packaging.

The durability of flexible packaging is a benefit that helps to extend the shelf life of most products.  Packaging that is made out of aluminum, high grade plastic or a combination of both offers a higher degree of protection from outside elements.  The added protection adds to the durability of the packaging allowing for a longer product life.

Features that exist on flexible packaging including zippers, seals and such allow for a second life for the products package.  The zip seal also makes flexible packages convenient and easy to use especially when the product is not thoroughly used upon being opened.  This is common in chemicals and food products that use flexible packaging.

A variety of logos, colors and designs can be printed on flexible packaging making it an engaging and attractive option in product packaging today. It is also easy to adjust the size of the package when using flexible packaging.  With flexible packaging you can adjust the size of the package needed from individual sized packages to family sized packaging easily.

Flexible packaging opens to a variety of dimensions.  It is a great material for various different products because it allows for the products to shift and adjust.  The packages can go from lying flat in storage to housing products taking up minimal storage space.  Utilizing shelf space while maintaining the quantity of product being offered is one of the greatest benefits that flexible packaging offer to both consumers and manufacturers.

Anchor Printing produces a variety of quality printed and converted products since 1947.  We take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options.  Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your label design, printing and packaging needs.

Anchor Printing

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Computer Virus Removal Done Right The First Time

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When you own and operate a computer that is connected to the internet you are almost guaranteed at some point to download a virus.  Computer malware and viruses can be incredibly harmful when they infect your PC.  Not only do they slow your computer down but they also pose a risk to your computers secure data and personal information that is stored on the hard drive.  Computer viruses and malware can often be incredibly tricky to completely remove especially if the virus is one of the more aggressive, nasty ones.  New viruses are introduced into the viral world every day; ransomware being the latest in computer viruses to hit the internet.

Ransomware is an incredibly nasty virus taking the online community by storm.  This virus spreads quickly and is incredibly difficult to remove and the malware often locks you out of using your computer until you pay the ransom. Even professional computer virus removal companies are having to learn new ways to exterminate ransomware from personal computers.  Often times the ransom is as expensive as purchasing a new computer.  The moral being that it is important to know exactly what you are downloading and to be sure of the source you are downloading it from.

There are a few different ways in which computer viruses that have infected your personal computer can be removed.  PC repair specialists have tools to remove viruses, to ensure all the computer viruses are gone and to install anti-virus protection to avoid future virus infections.  The two main methods of removing viruses are running scans and manual removal of computer viruses.  Some companies offer online tools for removing viruses.  Before giving personal information to any company selling online virus tools it is important to do your homework.

To be safe when it comes to computer virus removal it is best to take your computer in to a certified technician that has knowledge of the different viruses that are infection computers.  They also have all the tools right at their fingertips to properly remove any and all computer infections.  Most computer repair stores can remove the viruses infecting your computer in a manner of a few days.  To do a complete job they will run a number of scans until the computer comes back clean a number of times.  They will also look into the files in your computer to find and files that look suspicious.  Once this is complete they will often complete the virus removal with a proper computer tune up and installation of anti-virus protection.

You can keep your computer clean and virus free using discretion when downloading software and online programs. If something looks suspicious or sounds too good to be true don’t click on the link.  The minute the link is clicked you have given the virus free rein to your personal information and computers hard drive.

Computers Plus Service, in Brighton Michigan, provides a wide range of valuable services for residential computer repair as well as a variety of commercial computer services to the entire Livingston County area including Howell, Brighton and the surrounding areas.  You can find out more about the services offered by CPS at http://www.cpsmi.com.

Creative Programs and Systems

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Finished Basement Flooring Options

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When it comes to finishing your basement one of the biggest concerns is the flooring. Basement floors are often just a concrete slab.  Before choosing flooring for your basement it is imperative to determine if a moisture barrier had been laid down previously or if you will be dealing with moisture seeping through the concrete slab.  Most often when it comes to basement slabs a concrete moisture barrier is not present.  This leads to issues that are common when homeowners wish to finish their basements.

If you are unsure if a moisture barrier is present underneath the concrete slab in your basement the easiest method to figure it out involves some time and plastic garbage bags.  Lay a few plastic bags out over the concrete basement slab and tape them into place.  After a few days check to see if the plastic bags feel wet or feel like they contain any moisture on the underside of the bag.  If moisture is present than your basement slab does not have a moisture barrier present and this will limit your flooring choices.

If you want to keep your options open when it comes to flooring in your basement consider a waterproofing the basement floor. This will allow you to choose more openly what you desire for the flooring within your basement.  Carpet is a common want in cold, damp basements.  The floor should be waterproofed as well as cellulose underlayment before padding and carpet is laid.  This will help to create a moisture proof floor in your basement with carpet flooring.

Free floating engineered flooring is a great option in basement flooring.  A foam underlayment allows the flooring to float the basement floor.  This underlayment creates a space that balances any unevenness in the flooring as well as providing a moisture barrier.

Laminate flooring is yet another option in basement flooring that is popular.  When using laminate flooring, the look and feel can be warmed up using throw rugs throughout the basement space.  Laminate is only a good choice in basements that have relatively low moisture levels because the backing is susceptible to bubbling in spaces with higher moisture.

Ceramic tile can be installed in basement flooring as well.  This is a great option however one that does tend to add to the coldness already associated with basements.  If you are installing ceramic tile note that low moisture basement ceramic tile will last longer than if placed in high moisture basements.

If all and all you decide the flooring options in the basement are too risky and to dependent on moisture look into painting your basement floor.  Even with high moisture levels concrete paint will adhere to the floor and will last a fair amount of time in between maintenance.  Add warmth with throw rugs that can easily be picked up, washed and dried.

Jason Foldenauer Construction, out of Howell and Brighton Michigan, offers a variety of home renovations to clients ranging from kitchen and bathroom remodeling to home additions and storage sheds.  Contact http://www.jfcremodeling.com today for your entire home renovating needs.

Jason Foldenauer Construction

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Summer Landscaping Tips

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Landscaping care is important in every season especially summer. As our seasons change so must the manner in which you care for your lawn and landscape. Summer landscaping should be centered on creating and maintaining an environment that can be thoroughly enjoyed without spending too much of your spare time. The following are summer tips to help create a landscape that time can be spent and memories made.

1) The first thing to keep in mind is how the space within your yard is used. If you have children you will want space to allow them to run around that is free of obstructions but that also maintains an outer boundary. If you prefer to use the space for entertainment and know that many weekends will be spent around a campfire you may consider turning your landscape into more of a patio area centering on a bon-fire pit. If you prefer a more adult landscape to enjoy afternoon tea consider special seating with a focus on beautiful flowers that bring butterflies in and mosquitos out.

2) Your landscape and lawn care should incorporate getting water to your landscape plants and lawn. In the summer to avoid grass and flowers from drying make sure that they are receiving at least an inch of water each week. It is best to water in the early morning or late evening to avoid as much water evaporation. Even though plants and grass need a certain amount of water to survive make sure that you are not saturating the area. Too much water can be just as bad as not enough.

3) Weeding is an essential element in every lawn and landscape. In flower beds use weed barrier to prevent an overabundance of weeds. When it comes to your grass consider using weed control treatments. Fertilization and aeration are all essential for your grass as well. Weeds take away valuable nutrients that are needed to maintain a healthy lush lawn.

4) When looking into fertilizers for your lawn consider only those that offer a slow release and low nitrogen content. Slow release fertilizers continue to give the lawn nutrients throughout the lawn and plants growing season.

5) Mow your lawn frequently using a sharp mower blade. Your grass should be about two and a half to three inches when mowing is necessary. Cutting more than one third of the grass at one time can cause damage to the blade and root system which in turn creates bare spots and brown patches.

Seasonal lawn care changes are needed to create a lush space to entertain no matter what season. Use the summer to boost the fullness in your lawn as well as the color throughout your flower beds.

CBA Outdoor Services is a local landscape design firm offering services throughout Livingston and Wayne Counties. For more information on the services they offer to both commercial and residential clients look online at http://cbaoutdoors.com/.

CBA Outdoor Services

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