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Custom Servers and Workstations are Better For The Growth Of Your Company

Computers are an essential element to both our personal and work lives. Our reliance on computer technology makes it so that hardware and software maintenance must be done on a regular basis. Building a server, workstation, or personal PC is becoming a popular option verse purchasing a pre-built PC simply because end users can fully customize their new machines without an exceedingly wild budget.

Having a computer built allows you to select and purchase the components of a PC separately. For servers and workstations being able to customize components is critical. Custom built computers are often less expensive and better performing than pre-built, higher priced computers.

Although price is usually the first thing that consumers care about when it comes to building the technology for your company it should not be the most important factor. It is crucial to work directly with IT consultants that are familiar with how your company runs, the software that is needed, and hardware requirements when purchasing and building the technology that will be used to help run your company.

Specific software systems only run using operating systems that meet their precise needs. The last thing you want to do is to customize a computer that will not run the most basic of software programs used daily in your operations. An IT professional can help to make sure the computers that are built use the appropriate motherboard, graphic card, and RAM for your needs while ensuring room to grow as technology is updated in the future.

Not only is price a huge benefit of custom-built servers and workstations so is the flexibility in regard to the unit’s specifications. With the ability to purchase components according to the user, each computer can be built to meet the specific needs of the users. The function of the computer is different depending on the user. Certain workstations need to function with specific software systems crucial for day to day business operations and therefore will need to ensure the computer is built to meet this need. Some considerations that need to be considered are word-processing functions, audio-visual features, and gaming abilities. Let’s face it, there is no need to spend extra on a fancy gaming video card to be installed on a workstation where graphics and gaming are not a priority. Instead a less expensive, entry-level, card can be installed.

Although many times a pre-built computer will work just find for most situations however, when you can save yourself money and purchase a pc that is customized to your needs, why wouldn’t you? Working with professionals you can work together to ensure that your network is set up for the most optimal results for your company and industry. This also helps to ensure that your technology can keep up with your company’s future technology needs. PC’s don’t need to be replaced on a yearly basis to enjoy the latest in technology. A few basic upgrades in hardware and software as needed, on a regular basis, can save company’s thousands of dollars each year without sacrificing on technology.

Creative Programs and Systems, CPS, is an all-inclusive IT solutions company offering a variety of services including: managed IT services, IT consulting, residential computer services, custom programming, website design, iphone & android app development, and more. More information can be found at https://cpsmi.com.

Do Aluminum Driveway Gates Need To Attach To a Fence?

Homeowners should understand that although many times a driveway gate is attached to perimeter fencing it doesn’t have to be in order to be effective. There are a number of ways in which an aluminum driveway gate can be installed. Matching a fence to the entrance of the driveway can be preferable however is not necessary. There are a number of options in driveway gate installation to ensure it is not only aesthetically pleasing but also sturdy and purposeful.

The main purpose for installing an aluminum entry gate is to eliminate access to your home via the driveway. Just as the main purpose for aluminum fencing is to add a barrier of protection. It works both ways, fence and gates not only keep unwanted individuals out of your space, they work to keep the ones you want in.

No two driveways are the same. Driveways come in a variety of shapes, lengths, widths, and even terrain. The placement of your home’s entry gate is up to you. Some homeowners choose to put the gate at the end of the driveway, near the street, while others choose to place the gate up towards the house. The placement of your driveway gate will depend on your preference and landscape.

Not only is a driveway gate aesthetically pleasing adding to the curb appeal of your home, it is helpful in creating a barrier between your home and the outside world. Curb appeal is an important element in real estate. The outside of your home gives buyers a glimpse on what they can expect on the inside. Driveway gates bring a space all together and help to present an entrance that is welcoming while securing the property.

Aluminum driveway gates and fencing are just one way that homeowners use to separate their private space from the surrounding public space. This helps to create a secure boundary that also deters thieves. Seriously, breaking into a home is a lot easier when a thief doesn’t have to penetrate through an aluminum fence or driveway gate.

If you don’t have an aluminum fence to attach a driveway gate to, don’t fret. There are a number of ways in which an entry gate can be attached other than to a matching fence. Driveway gates offer additional security to homes even when a fence is not in place. A large entry gate can appear quite intimidating.

If your landscape is not set up so that your entrance gate can be attached directly to aluminum fence panels another option to consider is the installation of stone or brick columns on either side of the driveway. This is another aesthetically pleasing option when installing a driveway gate. Stone or brick columns add another dimension to the landscape.

When installing a sliding or swing gate choose a style that compliments the existing space while adding a little flare to make an overall statement. The end goal is to find a gate that presents a cohesive look and feel to your home and property.

iFenceUSA is an online distributor of wholesale aluminum fences and gates for residential, resort, commercial, and industrial installation. As an industry leader in maintenance-free aluminum fencing products we have all your aluminum fence and gate needs covered. More information can be found online at https://ifenceusa.com/.

How Can Custom Software Programming Help You?

A new year often is a signal of new beginnings, fresh goals, and the enthusiasm to achieve success. This concept is not only true in many of our personal lives but also in business. As the new year starts it is a prime time to target top technology needs for your company needs in order to continue to be profitable and flourish amongst top competitors.

For many companies it is easy to recognize the areas within the organization that need improvement however, implementation process fall short. It is easy to document and execute when updates to hardware and software are needed within company networks and workstations. There is often an ease in spotting disconnects between current technology and software that affect the workflow process as well. Companies, however, often back burner improvements to workflow through custom software development because it can seem daunting. Sound familiar?

Yes, at first the idea of change especially when it comes to changing the way things have always been done seems overwhelming. It is important, however, to recognize the old way of doing things is a great way to keep your business stagnant. The only way to advance is to keep up with advancements in workflow process that keep you competing with emerging and existing competitors.

Custom app development specifically programmed to the needs and methods of your business not only reduce expenses it can vastly improve efficiency while providing long-term gains to productivity. There are a number of benefits to having software programmed for your specific needs verse buying commercial or off the shelf software models and adjusting your process to match. Custom software programming allows you to continually adapt the software as you grow, processes change, or future business needs come up.

Another benefit to having software that is programmed specifically for your company and workflow process is that it allows you to closely examine your current methods. This gives team members who may not be directly involved in the day to day workflow a chance to see how things are done without being too close to the situation to offer suggestions for improvement.

Another benefit of custom programmed software is the ability to integrate work processes and procedures currently being used. Just because you are creating a custom program doesn’t mean you have to start all over again. Existing software, Excel spreadsheets, and more can all be built into, modified to fit, or integrated as they are into custom CRM software solutions, barcode reader software, QR code systems, or enterprise resource planning services.

Using software programmed for your company verse off the shelf software programs also allows companies to save on the expenses associated with the costs of yearly maintenance and software renewal that is often associated with commercial software.

Our professional software developers specialize in creating custom workflow solutions for companies in a variety of industries from parks and rec to over the road trucking, Creative Programs and Systems will develop software that integrates your existing systems into one.

What Should I Expect at My LASIK Consultation?

When you seek a consultation from a surgeon specializing in LASIK it is to determine if you are a candidate for laser vision corrections surgery. If it is determined that you are a candidate, the surgeon will begin discussing the most appropriate surgical option to correct your unique vision issue. During the consultation you will be educated on the benefits and risks of LASIK surgery. It is important to remember that a consultation with a LASIK surgeon does not obligate you to have the procedure nor does it mean that you are no longer able to ask questions and gather more information. A consultation is the starting point into the process of determining if surgery is the vision correction route best suited for you.

Candidates must meet a certain set of criteria before they are considered for LASIK which includes:

Age:

LASIK candidates must be eighteen years or older.

Health:

In order to be a candidate for LASIK, patients must be generally healthy. They should be free of health problems such as diabetes, vascular disease, autoimmune disease, or on medication that interferes with the immune response.

Eye Health/Problems:

Candidates should also be free of eye disease including: glaucoma, cataracts, corneal diseases, retinal and optic nerve disease, or keratoconus. They should also not have eye conditions such as herpes zoster and simplex. Surgeons will do an eye exam before surgery however, it is important that candidates inform them of issues such as lazy eye, eye muscle imbalance, and other eye conditions that can affect healing. Candidates should also inform eye surgeons of other health issues such as mental health or issues with health. Obviously, the eye should also be free of any injury or infection. Dry eye should also not affect candidates.

Pregnancy/Nursing:

If you are pregnant or nursing you will not be eligible for LASIK. In fact, LASIK candidates must have had at least three menstrual cycles after they are done nursing and not expecting in order to be eligible for laser surgery. Pregnancy hormones may affect the effectiveness of your prescription which also makes them ineligible for LASIK.

Stable Vision:

LASIK vision candidates need to have had stable vision for at least one year before they are considered for laser vision surgery procedures.

Contacts:

In order for patients to have LASIK they must stop wearing their contacts for at least two weeks prior to the surgery. This helps to stabilize the cornea and will give surgeons an accurate valuation of your prescription prior to the procedure.

LASIK is a viable option in the treatment of nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatisms. The goal of LASIK is to reduce the dependency of glasses and contacts with the end goal of 20/20 vision, although this is not guaranteed.

Rohr Eye & Laser Center offers the most advanced technology available to suit your lifestyle and visual needs. As a leader in laser vision correction and cataract surgery, our goal is to help you achieve the best vision possible without glasses or contact lenses. More information can be found online at https://michiganlasik.com.

What You Need to Know Before You Purchase Any Water Treatment System for Your Home

First things first, have the water in your home tested by professional water treatment specialist. Take labeled water samples from each faucet in your home in for treatment. Believe it or not water from the kitchen sink may not test for the same contaminants as the water in the bathroom or laundry room. This could happen for a number of reasons but is important to ensure proper treatment of the water in your home. Processing different points of access will also allow you to recognize issues that can be corrected with whole house water treatment systems such as water softeners or point of use water treatment solutions such as reverse osmosis and water filtration systems.

If the water in your home tests positive for contaminants, then the installation of a treatment system could be the next necessary step in remedying the issue. When you have to install a water treatment solution it is important that you understand these systems will require routine maintenance and care. It is crucial that homeowners understand that containment free water requires effort on the part of the homeowner no matter water treatment solution is installed. Water filtration systems will need new filters installed, water softeners will require the input of salt or potassium chloride, and reverse osmosis systems will require cleaning of existing filters and new filters.

It is important for consumers to be smart when having their water tested. Some man-made chemicals that have been found in the water supply of homes have been associated with serious health problems. These contaminates are not always found in without special analysis. If you suspect the results of your water tests are inaccurate then it is important to have the water tested more thoroughly by a state certified laboratory. Most general water treatment companies can see basic water quality components such as water hardness, pH, arsenic, iron, and sulfur.

After you are sure the results of your homes water are accurate and have been analyzed to your satisfaction the levels that have been detected will tell you what type and level of water treatment is needed.

Once this process has been satisfactorily completed the next step is to choose a system to treat your homes water. Depending on your water analysis you can determine if you need whole house treatment, point of use treatment, or both. Choose products that come from companies that can offer an established reputation and can offer referrals. Often times companies that sell water treatment systems such as reverse osmosis, iron filtration, water softeners and conditioners will also offer service plans, maintenance options, and salt and potassium chloride delivery.

The experts at Reynolds Water Conditioning have a solution to your homes unique water quality needs including: arsenic, bacteria, chlorine, rotten egg smell, fluoride, hard water, iron, lead, acid, tannins, radon, and more. More information on our water treatment solutions including water softeners and conditioners, water filtration and purification, reverse osmosis drinking water, and iron & odor removal can be found online at https://reynoldswater.com.

Does It Cost Money to Have an Old Linear Accelerator System Removed?

This is a frequently asked questions when healthcare centers are starting the process to budget for the purchase of a new or refurbished Linear Accelerator. It is important to not be surprised when it comes to financial obligations within a medical organization. The answer is Yes, there is a cost to have old LINAC systems removed from your facility. There is a cost to have new equipment installed as well but that is often combined with the price you pay for the equipment itself.

Although linear accelerators are a machine that offers a priceless treatment in the fight against cancer with lifesaving radiation beams treating thousands of patients for countless number of years, they do become worthless. Like most machines, over time the labor and linear accelerator parts cost more to repair the LINAC machine than it is worth. When this occurs, the machine is worth nothing and needs not only to be removed but also properly disposed of.

Another element to add to the mix is the introduction of new technology. This is a reoccurring issue that is seen in medical equipment. Older machines cannot be updated to run properly with the latest and greatest treatments and therefore simple become worthless. Yep, even some LINAC machines with life left in them become obsolete to healthcare providers promoting the latest and greatest treatments. Although these machines are worthless to these facilities they can often be moved and utilized by other facilities such as veterinarians, possible dermatologists, and of course in poverty-stricken locations that would otherwise go without.

When a linear accelerator has been deemed to have little to know value, meaning no one is willing to pay you for it, your facility will face the cost of removal. This cost includes professional and safe dismantling, removal, and disposal of the LINAC. This process often requires the system to be loaded onto a crane as they weigh several thousand pounds. This should be done by professionals to prevent catastrophe. After the machine has been removed from the facility it will be tested for radioactivity and disposed of once they are cleared.

At the end of the day, when all is said and done the cost to have a large scaled piece of medical equipment such as a linear accelerator removed, dismantled, and disposed of ranges between $5,000 and $25,000.

Radparts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts for Linear Accelerators and Radiation Oncology equipment. Radparts provides high quality, user friendly, low cost parts support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. More information can be found at https://www.radparts.com/.

Properly Opening a Freshly Plastered Pool

The first 30 days after a swimming pool has been plastered are the most important. It is critical that the plaster is properly cured. This is done by maintaining a proper balance in the pool waters chemistry and maintaining it throughout the life of the pool. When starting up the pool the main objective will be to clean and get rid of the dust left over from the plaster while stabilizing and balancing the water that is in the pool. This article will give you a few things to consider if you are contemplating having the plaster on your swimming pool re-done or a new plaster pool installed.

The Quality of the Water You Are Adding to the Pool

Before you begin to add water to a freshly plastered pool it is important to know the quality of the water. Believe it or not all water is not the same. The quality of the water in your home may not be the same as the quality of the water in the water spout outside of the home. The local source that you have for filling the pool may not be suitable. It is important to take a sample of the pools water to a pool retailer to have it analyzed. Write down the water’s chemistry for reference at a later date.

Determine How Much Water Is Needed for The Pool

If you determine that your water source is appropriate for filling your swimming pool the next step is to take a meter reading to make sure the source is adequate to fill the pool without issues. To measure the amount of water needed to fill a swimming pool use the following measurements:

Oval – Length x Width x Average Depth x 5.9

Round – Diameter x Diameter x Average Depth x 5.9

Square/Rectangle – Length x Width x Average Depth x 5.9

Irregular Shapes – Divide the pool into geometric shapes and add the gallon amounts together

Starting the Pool Filling Process

After the pool has been plastered, the water has been tested, and the amount of water needed to fill it is determined it is time to fill the swimming pool. When filling the pool use a clean hose with a soft cloth tied to the end to diffuse the water so that it does not whip about and mar the freshly plastered surface. It will also catch debris coming out of the hose.

If you are bringing water in via a truck note that a cushion of two feet is needed in the bottom of the pool. Water should be added quickly but in a manner that does not harm the plaster. If a pool fills too slowly cracks may appear. In order to avoid this the plaster should be added in as quickly as possible.

Tips:

Do not let the hose flip and flail around the pool
Put the fill hose in at the deep end of the pool
Do not allow the hose to rest on the fresh plaster
Do not add anything to the pool until it has finished filling including clarifiers
Do not stop the water until the pool is completely filled
Do not walk on the freshly plastered pool

Test the Water After It Has Finished Filling

The water may test substantially different once the pool has been filled. It is important to test the water and write the current water chemistry down. The pools water must have the correct chemistry to prevent staining or pitting. Calcium is especially important to the pools water chemistry. If the calcium is not maintained, it will pull calcium from the plaster which could cause issues to the plaster surface.

In our next installment on pool plaster we will continue to discuss the steps involved in properly opening a newly plastered pool including: starting the equipment, adding in chemicals, and maintenance.

Pound Pool Plastering offers several options when it comes to servicing your pool including plaster, caulk, tiling, cement decks, plumbing, and coping in both commercial and residential settings. More information can be found at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

I Just Got Engaged, Should I Hire A Wedding Planner?

The simple answer to this question, YES! If you want to keep your sanity when planning your wedding the first person you will want to hire is a professional wedding planner.

Preparing for a wedding can turn into a full-time job. If you are a working bride, like many are, this is a huge time commitment that many people can’t take on without serious assistance. Every element of planning a wedding from interviewing and hiring vendors, choosing décor, and managing family is important and often overwhelming. A professional wedding planner can help weed through your options and help make the whole process far more enjoyable than struggling to do it all on your own.

Advantages of Hiring A Wedding Planner

Wedding Planners Shoulder the Responsibility

Tasks related to planning a wedding take up a great deal of time. When you are working full-time and want to still have a social life, you may find that you just don’t have the time it takes to keep up. When you hire a wedding planner you are handing off the more time-consuming tasks of scheduling appointments, working with vendors, and the nitty-gritty details of the day itself.

Budgeting and Scheduling

Most couples try to stick to a strict wedding budget when planning a wedding. Often times brides that are going it alone stop considering the budget as they become overwhelmed and opt for easy over budgeting. Wedding planners are here to make sure that doesn’t happen. There is no need to go into extreme debt to have the day you have always envisioned without stress while making it happen. Because of the relationships that exist between wedding consultants and vendors they are often able to reach deals that brides alone cannot. On top of scoring big with industry connections they can also help to make sure that vendors scheduling works into your already tight schedule so that you aren’t missing work or social events in order to plan.

Inside Knowledge and Connections

Wedding planners are in constant contact with a wide range of florists, DJs, bands, stationary experts, bridal salons, hair salons, photographers, and videographers. After listening to what you want for your day, they can match you with vendors they know jive with your vibe. This means that you, as a bride, don’t have to spend hours searching Google, scheduling appointments, and sifting through it all. Another benefit, the connection that wedding planners have with vendors. This will help with negotiations, paperwork, and contracts. Fundamentals of wedding planning that need to occur but that don’t need you stressing over them.

New Ideas

Many new brides have file folders of Pinterest pictures of their ideal wedding. Sometimes they get stuck in a rut thinking about only these visions of the perfect event and forget to stop and consider new, original ideas that can’t be found on Pinterest. From unique centerpieces, memorable desserts, custom vows, wedding planners are perfect at bouncing ideas back and forth with their brides. Brainstorming with a professional is priceless.

Priceless Advice and Day of Assistance

A wedding planner is a best friend without the overly close connection. This is a priceless investment. Believe is or not, your best friend will not want to hear about your wedding non-stop from the minute you get engaged until your big day. A wedding planner however, it is their job to be as obsessed about your wedding day as you are. They can help with meddling mothers-in-law, dramatic divorced parents, bridal shower disagreements, appropriate dates, and everything in between. When the big day comes a wedding planner literally makes sure you are stress free and that the day you have planned comes to light without a hitch. She will be there for issues, if they happen to occur, so that you have nothing to worry about expect meeting your best friend at the end of the aisle and committing your lives to one another.

Event Planning DC provides full event planning, partial event planning, month-of (day-of) event coordination, event styling/design and decorating services throughout DC, Maryland, and Virginia, with access to local and national vendors who may provide additional services suitable for your event and budget. We pride ourselves on providing only the highest quality event coordination, giving you and your guests the perfect day, no matter what the occasion including exclusive corporate and non-profit events, weddings, Bar & Bat Mitzvahs, community events and milestone celebrations. More information can be found online at https://www.eventplanningdc.com.

How to Recover After Declaring Bankruptcy?

Some of the most responsible people find themselves in financial trouble. At times these issues becomes so bad that there is simply no way they can get out from under them. One solution for individuals that find themselves in such a situation is to file bankruptcy.

Filing for bankruptcy is known to take a toll on individuals both emotionally and financially. It takes years after filing for bankruptcy for you to rebuild your credit profile. It is estimated that in 2017 there were upwards of 750,000 bankruptcy filings, not including businesses. Bankruptcy is a legal action that individuals or businesses can take in order to dismiss a portion or all of an accumulated debt. It is important to note that this is not done without meeting certain criteria and without consequence. There are advantages and disadvantages to the bankruptcy process. It is important to understand bankruptcy, how it can impact your financial future, and just how you can survive and thrive after.

Bankruptcy is a legal process that is used to eliminate or lessen the debts that individuals and businesses are responsible for paying. Due to the complexity of the process it is important that a bankruptcy attorney is hired. Each bankruptcy is unique and will be evaluated as such. Courts need to determine what the financial burden is and the ability the individual or business has to pay it. Hiring a bankruptcy lawyer is crucial because of the ramifications it has on your credit, getting new loans, and new credit.

Bankruptcy is not always a good idea however, for many it can be the only way to achieve financial stability. Bankruptcy can relieve you from a portion of or all of your debt. If only a partial portion of your debt is relieved the bankruptcy court will assign a repayment budget for the remaining debt. Once you have started the bankruptcy proceedings foreclosure on your home, repossession of your car, wage garnishments, utility shut offs, and so forth will cease. Creditors and collection agencies will no longer be allowed to call you without a fine.

Each bankruptcy case is unique and requires a one on one evaluation. Some debts are commonly reduced or dismissed such as credit cards, medical bills, past utility bills, and even sometimes rent. Others, however, are rarely dismissed through bankruptcy including child support, alimony, taxes, and student loans. If you are no longer required to pay on your car there is a high probability that it will be repossessed.

Once the bankruptcy process has been concluded it is time to get back on the saddle. Let’s face it, we all need credit at one point or another. Using credit and credit history is how many people buy homes, cars, and larger purchases. Bankruptcy will impact your credit and have a negative effect on your credit report. You will not be able to get a loan or credit for a while after bankruptcy. When you do start to accumulate credit again you should expect to pay higher interest rates, increased security deposits, and larger down payments. When accumulating new credit after bankruptcy it is important to stay within your budget, pay your bills on times, and avoid accumulating debt.

Filing for bankruptcy is not a decision that should be made without a lot of thought. If you think you have no way out of your debt it is best to meet with a bankruptcy attorney for a free consultation to determine the pros and cons of this action in regards to your unique situation.

Bohikian Law Group specializes in bankruptcy services including chapter 7 and 13 bankruptcy. More information can be found at https://bohikianlaw.com.

What Should I Know About Universal Design and Remodeling My Bathroom?

The first thing you should know is that when accessible bathroom design is done well, it will be a perfect blend between function, form, and aesthetics. Thanks to all of the advancements in universal bathroom design, contractors are able to transform and everyday space into and accessible sanctuary that is safe for everyone to use. Contractors combine products designed for patient safety with interior design ideas in order to create a bathroom that is functional regardless of age or ability.

Take a look at how the licensed and insured Universal Design contractors at Glen Miller the Home Doctor can create a bathroom space that keeps you safe as you age in place without compromising on aesthetics.

Cupboards Hung On the Wall

Wall hung cabinets are best as they can be hung at any height needed while minimizing obstruction of objects on the floor. Cabinets made from natural and easy to maintain materials are perfect for use in age in place bathroom remodeling. Wall hung cabinets give a contemporary feel with a minimalist approach that is perfect for use in Universal Design.

Walk-In Tubs and Showers

Two very unique concepts but both providing function, safety, and beauty: walk-in tubs and threshold free showers are popular options in bathroom remodeling. Age in place showers have come a long way since the days of installing grab bars around an old ceramic tub. Accessible showers are now created using slip-resistant tiles, built in seating, built in grab bars, and removable shower heads. Thus, creating a luxury spa like shower that can be enjoyed without the worry of falls while getting clean. Accessible tubs make bathing possible without the dangers associated with limited mobility.

Toilet Accessibility

Another important element in Universal Bathroom design is the accessibility to the toilet without the need for assistance. To accommodate aging bodies or ones with disabilities it is crucial to have a toilet that is easy to access. This means the height of the toilet is adjusted to be higher and grab bar support to help ease the up and down are in place. This also means installing toilet paper roles at a height and location that is accessible without any real reaching. Don’t skimp and install a raised toilet chair if you are redesigning a bathroom for Universal Design. Spend the little bit extra to install a secure, higher height toilet. It is usable for individuals of all abilities with very little noticeable difference to standard toilets.

The whole concept of Universal Design is to create a space that blends functionality with home design; creating a space that is safe to use for individuals of all ages and abilities.

Glen Miller the Home Doctor is a licensed general contractor servicing Livingston County and the surrounding areas. Glen offers a wide range of services including home maintenance plans, age in place remodeling, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, finished basements, and hardwood floor refinishing. More information can be found online at https://www.glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/.