Tips To Select Reliable Immigration Attorneys

Benefits of Hiring an Immigration Lawyer to Represent You

As anyone that’s gone through the process will tell you, navigating any area of immigration law is not an endeavor you’d want to go through alone. There is an extensive paperwork process that goes along with immigration that even natural-born U.S. citizens would struggle with, let alone immigrants from other countries for whom English is not their first language.

The truth about U.S. immigration is that many potential immigrants are not clear about everything required of them during the process, and this lack of information becomes a barrier from get into the country and staying there legally. Don’t let poor or insufficient legal representation be the reason you or your loved ones have to be uprooted from their homes. Here are a ways you can benefit from hiring an immigration lawyer to represent you throughout this complicated arm of the legal system:

A Good Immigration Lawyer Avoids Mistakes

Filing the correct paperwork is an important part of the processes of acquiring a visa, getting a loved on residence in the United States, and finalizing your marriage to an immigrant, among other procedures. This paperwork is usually extensive and complicated, and without the help of an expert, there are lots of opportunities to make mistakes that sink your entire application permanently.

An experienced immigration attorney can walk you through the correct steps to apply for work permits, marriage licenses and citizenship, without allowing mistakes that derail your chance to get these crucial documents authorized by the proper parties.

When Can An Immigration Lawyer Help?

An individual will certainly want an immigration lawyer if they are in removal proceedings in front of an immigration judge. However, in many cases an immigration attorney is also necessary when an individual is not in removal proceedings at all.  Our firm gets a lot of cases in which people thought they were submitting an application that was straightforward and didn’t anticipate problems, but after doing the initial filing on their own they received a denial or a request for evidence from USCIS.  Attorneys can step in at that point, once things become more complicated.

Sometimes an individual will already be aware that they have a complicated immigration path, and they want to ensure that moving forward they are taking all possible steps to do avoid problems. Also, in many cases you may have people who have been living undocumented in the United States for many years, and want to evaluate whether or not there is some sort of legal option that they may have overlooked.

A PROFESSIONAL IMMIGRATION LAWYER PREVENTS MISTAKES

Such a lawyer can assist with filling in the paperwork correctly, obtaining a Visa, assist with helping a loved one getting residence in the US as well as finalizing a marriage to an immigrant, and more. The paperwork is generally comprehensive and complicated. Without the knowledge of a professional, there are plenty of opportunities for mistakes to be made that can result in an application being denied. An experienced lawyer can help with applying for work permits, getting marriage licenses as well as citizenship.

Your Immigration Attorney Can Help You as a Permanent Resident

You immigration law issues may continue after you have successfully obtained your status as a lawful permanent resident. There are specific laws that apply to permanent residents, and breaking these laws may result in deportation orders or deportation. Your lawyer can help you understand these laws and defend yourself if necessary.

Your Immigration Lawyer Can Help You Find Legal Work

Finding a job is stressful enough, but it can be even more difficult as an immigrant. Finding a job with a competitive salary is important, and your lawyer can help you apply for jobs, interact with human relations personnel, and find employment opportunities. Your attorney will be familiar with all the tools available to help you find work.

Professionalism

Like all lawyers, immigration lawyers must meet minimum levels of professionalism, and must attend continuing legal education (CLE) classes. Specialist immigration lawyers may also undertake specialist accreditation,through specialist accreditation programmes, which have been established by the Law Society of NSW and the Law Institute of Victoria. These programmes have been running for some years and have proved very successful in raising the level of professionalism.

This is in addition to meeting the requirements set forth by the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA) for continuing professional development (CPD), although there have been moves recently to allow immigration lawyers cross credit CPD and CLE courses.

Immigration lawyers must adhere to the ethical and professional standards, under the State regulated Legal Profession Acts,which regulate legal practice in Australia, in addition to the provisions set out in MARA’s code of conduct

This dual regulatory structure ,although onerous at times, ensures that the standard of professionalism among immigration lawyers is very high, allowing them to deliver high quality services to clients in an often-confusing area of the legal system.

It is hoped that the establishment of the ILAA will add to the opportunities that immigration lawyers have for professional development within their field, whilst also encouraging a new area of practice for young lawyers.

The Country Kitchen Sink

Secrets of People Who Always Have a Clean Kitchen

You know the type—their floors are always gleaming and they’re never embarrassed to show you the inside of their microwave. The good news is, you can have a clean kitchen, too!

They Clean as They Cook

Let’s face it, cooking a meal makes a mess in the kitchen—but that doesn’t mean people with clean kitchens never eat! The difference is, they clean as they cook. Set out a large empty bowl to throw in egg shells, vegetable peels and wrappers so that all the garbage is contained to one spot. Place a dish bin next to the sink full of hot soapy water, and you can throw in dirty dishes as needed.

They Have a Place for Everything

If you have a specific spot for each item in your kitchen, cleaning up—and keeping it clean—is a lot easier. The key is only keeping things you use, and to stay organized. Use drawer and cabinet organizers, fridge bins and pantry baskets, so that every item has a home

They Load the Dishwasher Every Night

Starting the day with an empty dishwasher sets you up for success. People with clean kitchens make a habit of loading and running the dishwasher before they go to bed, then emptying it first thing in the morning.

They Keep Counters Clear

If your kitchen counter is crowded with small appliances and decorative items, it’s easy for the area to collect dust, food messes and additional clutter. Instead, clear the counter of almost everything. Move mail and kids’ homework other zones in the house, and (if you have the cabinet space) put away appliances that aren’t used every day.

HOW TO ORGANIZE UNDER THE KITCHEN SINK

Want a quick project that will help get your kitchen organized in a hurry? Organize under the kitchen sink. Every once in a while I do a full clean out of this space and every time I do, I streamline it a little more, realize we need less, and maximize this area in the kitchen.

I don’t know about you but I open this cupboard daily and seeing it neat and tidy brings an odd sense of satisfaction. When it’s messy and cluttered it brings the opposite feeling – frustration. Want to tackle the space under your kitchen sink?

HERE’S THE SIMPLE STEP-BY-STEP:

Empty the cupboard.

Put the items in 4 categories: Keep, toss/recycle, donate, relocate.

Wipe down the cupboard – consider adding adhesive paper (like Con-tact paper) to the bottom shelf to protect it and make it a little more decorative.

Put what’s left into categories and set up containers to keep things in. I use a handled bucket, an upcycled vase for cleaning brushes, a small dish for veggie brushes, and a turntable for kitchen cleaning supplies and cleaners. Use what you have!

Once I use them for a day, I wring them out and rinse and place over the sink to air dry overnight. Then I put that cloth on a little hook on the inside of the door under the sink to finish drying.

Once the Bar Mop Towel is dry, I toss it in the handled bucket under the sink with the other dirty towels. Once I have a load of them, I wash them with our other kitchen towels.

The Best Tips on How to Organize Under the Kitchen Sink

This year one of my goals is to get our home more organized. I don’t have a thought out plan on how to make it happen. It’s more like this: I’m going to tackle a space when I decide I’ve had enough of the mess. So today that mess is the cabinet area under my kitchen sink. If you have avoided that cabinet like me, I can help. I’m sharing my whole step-by-step process on how to organize under the kitchen sink. Plus I’ll talk about the one item many of you store under your sink that won’t be under mine!

There is a reason why the cabinet under the sink has doors. Let’s state the obvious, there’s holes in the wall for plumbing with ugly plastic pipes. Who wants to look at that?! You’ll also find under the sink those big garage disposals and cords. Plus it’s just like the darkest place in the whole kitchen. I much prefer this view!

REMOVE EVERYTHING

Before I show you the good — aka the finished look — I have to show you the bad and ugly. Yes, my under sink cabinet had become a crazy mess. It’s so embarrassing to admit but I’m giving you full transparency here. We’re all friends right?

SORT AND PRIORITIZE

Once you have all the items out you can start to sort and prioritize what should be in this space.  If you find items that don’t belong, remove them and store elsewhere. Then think about what annoyed you most in the past with items under the sink. What needs to be closest to the front? What do you reach for daily?

One of my biggest frustration I was having in this space was not being able to easily reach the dishwasher cleaning pods. I would have to pull our like two items just to get to the container. Since we run the dishwasher daily, this was annoying.

things to consider before buying a sink

When designing a kitchen it’s easy to forget about the sink. You’re already choosing cabinets, countertops, tile, appliances and more. Here’s how to avoid the most common mistakes and make sure you get everything you want and the kitchen sink

Design

A great kitchen sink can either enhance or detract from the overall design of your kitchen.

Farmhouse Sink

Apron Front (or farmhouse) sinks like this fireclay sink by Elkay, can give you a more traditional style. Just remember if you choose and Apron Front sink that will need to be installed before the countertop fabricator can field measure

Quality

When it comes to quality there are a few guidelines that can help you pick the right sink for your kitchen, In the global economy we live in now, there are plenty of knock off brands, and low quality offerings out there. A quick amazon search will give you hundred of kitchen sinks for less than $300 each. Before you click the buy button make sure it’s made made by a reputable manufacturer. We love Elkay & Kohler. Both Elkay & Kohler have most of their manufacturing done in the U.S. and provide really good warrantees through their dealer networks. Many other brands that you’ll find online are manufactured oversees, may use sub-standard raw materials, and don’t all have the same quality control standards that we’ve come to rely on from Elkay & Kohler.

Warranty

Warranty Is just as important as quality when choosing a sink. Most sinks will have a stamp on the box that says there is some sort of warranty. It’s hard to decipher what this really means, so we recommend asking the dealer what kind of warranty they supply, What really happens where there is an issue with that sink? After your kitchen is completely finished, and you notice a chip or crack in the sink, how do you get it fixed? Many suppliers will offer to send a new sink, but you’ll have to cover the cost of install, plumbing, lifting the countertops, etc., that come with replacing a sink. Most often those costs amount to much more than the cost of the sink.

Kitchen Sink Buying Guide

Every kitchen revolves around the sink, whether it’s used for washing hands and rinsing food or cleaning a huge load of dishes. We’ll show you how to find the right one for your space, from format and material to installation.

The Most Important Part of Your Kitchen

Few things in the home are as important or frequently used as the kitchen sink. It’s one of the most important decisions you can make, and we’ve got the right one waiting for you. Whether it’s a simple one-bowl configuration or three-bowl farmhouse sink, the perfect one is just a click away.

Choose the Sink Format

Bowl Configuration: One, two, or three — explore what works for you.

Depth: Choose bowl depth(s) based on your needs. Deeper bowls are more versatile and allow for easier cleaning of large pots. Shallow bowls are convenient for general tasks and more accessible for children. Multiple bowl sinks can vary in depth from one side to the other.

Shape: The rectangular shape is the most functional, but review other options for a different look.

Select the Material

Enameled Cast Iron: These are solid cast iron sink covered in porcelain enamel for long-lasting durability. They’re available in a variety of colours and resist staining, chipping, and scratching.

Composite Materials: Quartz or granite, combined with acrylic or polyester resins, form a rock-hard composite sink that resists staining, chipping, and scratching.

Acrylic: Made with acrylic materials and reinforced with composite backing, these sinks are available in a variety of colours and resist staining and impact.

Stainless Steel: Finishes and steel thickness affect the sink’s durability and ability to disguise scratching, but they’re very good at resisting burning or cracking. They come in a variety of decorative finishes, with some insulated to reduce noise.

Consider the Installation

Undermount: They attach below the countertop for a more integrated look and easier clean up, with faucet holes drilled into the countertop. They work best with stone or solid-surface countertops.

Drop-In: Self-rimming and easy to install, faucet holes are pre-drilled into the sink ledge, making them ideal for replacement projects.

Integral: They’re made of the same material as solid surface countertops for a seamless appearance and easy clean up. These sinks are moulded into the countertop with faucet holes drilled in.

Engineered Hardwood Flooring

TIPS FOR PROTECTING YOUR HARDWOOD FLOORS DURING A MOVE

Are you moving into a new home, rearranging your furniture or looking to add some new furniture over the holidays or new year?

During a move of any kind, many people are so focused on their furniture that they neglect an equally important part of their home — their hardwood floors. Your hardwood floors are an important investment that adds value to your property, comfort to your lifestyle and brings you more overall satisfaction with your space

Cover Your Floors

Before moving furniture into or out of your home, cover your hardwood floors to prevent dents, scrapes, and scratches. There are many different types of products that can be used for this purpose. One is Homasote 440, a shock absorbing protective mat that you can cut to any shape, and keep it for future use.

Don’t Drag Furniture

No matter what you use to protect your floor during a move, never drag heavy furniture across the floor. No matter what type of wood floor or prefinished wood floor you have, this can damage the surface of the finish and cause dents in the wood. Carry lightweight items and stack boxes onto dollies with rubber tires. When moving large furniture, such as a couch, use furniture sliders if you can’t carry it.

For heavy or bulky furniture such as tables and chairs, cover the feet and edges with a soft fabric or wrap them in padding. This helps protect your hardwood flooring in case you accidentally drop the item on the floor.

Be Cautious in Bad Weather

When it’s rainy or snowing, take extra precaution not to track any salt, mud, or water onto your floors. Keep a large, heavy-duty mat at the front door for people to wipe their shoes on before walking in and out of your home.

Is Waterproof Hardwood Flooring Really A Thing?

Ah! Handsome hardwood flooring, the homeowners’ delight. Just one problem – moisture is hardwood’s kryptonite. If only someone would invent a waterproof hardwood flooring

The Threat to Non-Waterproofed Wood Floors

While untreated solid hardwood floors can withstand a few drops of water, when doused with larger quantities they start to resemble a sponge. If you’re too busy to wipe up spills, pet accidents, or tracked-in snow immediately

Eventually, all these liquids will cause unprotected wood flooring to swell, bloat, and warp. A badly water-damaged hardwood floor cannot be repaired; instead, it is likely to rot and/or mold and will need to be completely replaced. That means unwelcome hassle and expense for you.

What Is Waterproof Hardwood Flooring?

Waterproof hardwood flooring is natural hardwood, pine, or bamboo that has been enhanced by technology to make it impervious to liquid. The tech varies according to the manufacturer. For example, Shaw makes a product comprising a layer of real wood on top of a core of stone polymer composite (SPC).

Waterproof Hardwood Flooring: Pros

Beauty. This new flooring has all the rich luster of genuine hardwood, the flooring most prized by homeowners AND home buyers.

Versatility. Enjoy hardwood floors anywhere in the house, including rooms formerly “off limits” to real wood floors, like the kitchen, mudroom, laundry, kid’s room, or even an elegant master bath.

Authenticity. Unlike ceramic tile or laminate, you will never see a pattern repeat in waterproof wood flooring.

Choice. Choose your personal favorite from a variety of wood species, attractive finishes (such as hand-scraped), and plank widths.

Peace of mind. When your lifestyle includes kids, pets, and tons of activity, spills and splashes are impossible to avoid. With waterproof flooring, you can relax … no harm done!

Engineered Flooring: Easier Hardwood?

None can deny the appeal of a hardwood floor. It has a long tradition of luxury, and a timeless beauty. Installing a hardwood floor is also expensive and difficult. Those looking for that classic look and feel might do well to consider engineered hardwood flooring. When determining whether or not to invest in engineered wood flooring, here are the essentials to keep in mind.

Engineered Hardwood

Unlike conventional hardwood, which comes straight out of a tree and into your home, engineered hardwood is a more complex product that consists of several layers. The outermost is a hardwood veneer, a thin slice of wood (less than 1/8″) of whatever species you desire. The inner layers are made of plywood, high density fiberboard, or hardwood. The core layers make the product more stable than regular hardwood, while the outer veneer surface adds beauty and authenticity.

Pros:

Engineered hardwood flooring is designed to reduce the moisture problems associated with conventional hardwood.

Its layers block moisture and provide added stability to your floor.

Engineered flooring will not swell or warp, making it very low maintenance

Environmental Advantages of Engineered Hardwood

Choosing engineered flooring is considered more environmentally-friendly than traditional hardwood for a few reasons.

Veneer is sliced rather than cut with a saw. This process produces no sawdust, which means that all of the tree’s wood can be used. The sawdust produced making hardwood boards is wasted wood (and adds up to a significant amount).

Hardwood trees grow much more slowly than the trees used to make engineered flooring cores. Because more surface area is produced making veneer, installing traditional hardwood uses many times the amount of slow growing tree. This makes the replenishing time much longer.

Alternatives to Hardwood Flooring

Wooden floors are a timeless and classic choice for any home. However, sometimes wood floors might not be a practical option for your home, due to either cost or function. Fortunately, there are other flooring materials that imitate wood so you can have a cozy atmosphere that costs less or is more durable than traditional wood flooring.

So how do you go about deciding if real wood is the best flooring option for you or if you should go with an alternative? Here are a few things to consider when it comes to your flooring options

Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood is a durable and attractive type of flooring. It goes well with pretty much any style of home. It also has a long life, since you can refinish it multiple times. Hardwood floors keep their value over time, as is evident by their resale value: Fifty-four percent of homebuyers are willing to pay extra for hardwood floors. If you think you might sell your house in the future, it could be worth it to invest in hardwood floors now.

One point to keep in mind is that hardwood floors do require regular maintenance. You will also need to make sure wood floors don’t get too wet, as this could cause warping. Additionally, hardwood typically costs around 6 to 22 dollars per square foot for materials and installation, making it one of the more expensive flooring options.

Other Options for Wood Floors

Maybe hardwood isn’t the right choice for your home. What other types of floorings are there for you to choose from? Some popular alternatives to hardwood floors are laminate, vinyl, and ceramic tile. All of these can imitate the look of wood. (yes, even tile!) They each have their own positives and negatives, and they vary in price points.

Ultimate Guide to Hardwood Flooring

Are you planning to upgrade the flooring in your home or business, or do you already have wood floors and want to learn more about maintenance and increasing its lifespan? Well, you’ve come to the right place! With this Ultimate Guide to Hardwood Flooring, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an expert on hardwood floors

While hardwood flooring may seem like a simple concept, there’s actually a lot more to it than many people realize. For example, you can get solid or engineered hardwood, prefinished or site-finished hardwood, and there are a large variety of wood species to choose from. Furthermore, luxury vinyl designed to look like wood (pretty convincingly so, too!) is becoming an increasingly popular alternative. It’s important to understand the similarities and differences, as well as the pros and cons of each if you want your floors to last a lifetime while looking their best.

In this Ultimate Guide to Hardwood Flooring we’ll educate you on the basics of hardwood flooring and cover the various types available in the market, as well as manufacturers we trust, installation know-how, cleaning and maintenance tips, and much more.

Before the Floor: Tree Anatomy and Characteristics

You know what they say about the beginning – it’s a very good place to start. Wood flooring is manufactured on a massive scale, and the materials are sourced from all around the globe. There are many different options when it comes to installing it in your home or business, so it’s a good call to do some preliminary research before you make your purchase.

Tree Translations

Let’s start with the very source of hardwood flooring: the tree itself. Once you know the anatomy of wood flooring, you’ll understand a bit more about why certain species of trees, growing characteristics, and the age of the tree itself all contribute to the final look of your floors. Every tree on earth can be segmented into five different parts: the pith, heartwood, sapwood, cambrium, and the bark. Of these five parts, the pith, heartwood, and sapwood all have an impact on the appearance of the wood used for flooring. For example, throughout these parts of the tree, pores and tunnels that carried sap and nutrients will in turn produce medullary rays, which are natural streaks of color that are a very desirable design characteristic in hardwood flooring

Residential Cleaning House Check List

BENEFITS OF HIRING RESIDENTIAL CLEANING SERVICES

Keeping your home clean takes time and energy. No matter how diligently you do all the usual daily tasks, eventually, your home will need a deeper, more thorough cleaning. Rather than pulling out the buckets, brushes, mops, and special cleaning products. Deep cleaning is what they do – and they do it every time. There are plenty of reasons to hire a professional residential cleaning service. Look them over and then give us a call! We are here to make your life easier.

1. Healthy Indoor Air

It is obviously better to breathe healthy, clean air. Unfortunately, the presence of dirt, dust, allergens, pet dander and other unhealthy contaminants will build up over time, constantly circulated by your HVAC system — and then are inhaled. Older homes pose the risk of exposure to asbestos fibers and lead dust, along with other pathogens. A thorough, professional cleaning is an important factor in keeping your indoor air fresh, clean, and healthy.

Residential carpet cleaning, area rugs, air duct cleaning, drapes, blinds, and upholstered furniture all attract dust and dirt. These must be regularly cleaned to avoid buildup, by removing ingrained dirt and dust, as well as deep stains in the fibers. Beyond making your home and furniture appear dingy, motions and impacts release contaminants into the air, adding to the problem.

2. Relax and Enjoy

You can spend many hours working on keeping your home clean, but is that truly the best use of your time? Call upon the professional team, and use the time you save for your creative endeavors, education, family time, or just relaxing. When our team takes care of your home cleaning needs, you can use the time you saved for whatever activity you enjoy – even just lounging, reading, or binge-watching your favorite shows in a spotless home – and enjoying the fact that it all happened without you lifting a finger.

3. Long Term Savings

Your furniture, carpets, drapes, and blinds are valuable. Without a regular deep clean, performed with professional equipment and procedures, they begin to deteriorate. Carpet, upholstery, and drape fabric fibers break down, and blinds lose their smooth surface. You can help preserve the longevity of these valuable items with a regularly scheduled cleaning. For carpets and blinds, many of our residential clients wisely choose to have this added service every six months. Ward off the natural deterioration of fibers and surfaces by calling our team to professionally extract all contaminants and restore your items. Our truck-mounted carpet cleaning equipment produces truly superior results.

4. Saves You Time

It is all about the quality of life. Most of us spend the majority of our waking hours at work. Should you use up your precious free time cleaning? Sparkling surfaces, floors looking beautiful, and even those hidden nooks and crannies completely free of dirt and dust. We think your time is worth a lot – why not turn over the cleaning process to us? We have all the added services you will need over time, including tile and grout restoration, stone cleaning, carpet cleaning, drape and blind cleaning, and air duct cleaning. We offer great deals on combinations of services, and we realize the bottom line is always important – we work with you to make it all affordable.

Helps you reduce fatigue and stress

Cleaning is rarely anybody’s favorite thing to do, except you are a professional cleaner. Without the right tools and equipment, cleaning can be a very challenging task that can be energy-consuming. Spending hours cleaning when you are tired can have far-reaching consequences on your health, so it is in your best interest to leave the cleaning to the experts.

A professional cleaner knows valuable tricks and tips that not only saves time but require less energy to get the job done. These tricks enable them to be able to clean your home in less time than if you were to do it yourself. So while your cleaner is at work, you can spend your weekend getting that much-needed rest.

Makes your living space healthy and Allergy-free

Regular professional cleaning of your home and offices keeps it healthy and safe. Dust is a common allergen that affects both young and adults. It irritates the eyes, nose, and throat, but these effects can be effectively tackled through regular cleaning. It can be almost impossible to dedicate time to keep the dust away when you have a hectic working schedule. A cleaner who comes in weekly or bi-weekly can help you keep your homes clean and healthy at all times. You should spend the money keeping your home cleaner than in the hospitals treating an allergic reaction.

Impress your guests

Hiring a professional cleaning service to prepare for special occasions can help you turn on the style and impress guests. Also, having a regular cleaning program with a professional cleaning service enables you to avoid any embarrassment when you have surprise visits from family or friends.

Now you have seen all the benefits you can enjoy from hiring a professional to clean your home. You must have an idea of how much it will cost you to do regular cleaning of your home.

How do I choose a professional house cleaning service company?

Services being offered – The cleaning agency needs to be able to customize the service as per your requirement. The agency should be able to cater to changes at home or come in at different timings to suit your requirements.

Staff with the Right Skills – Availability of the workforce with adequate skill set is essential. The agency needs to have a proper support mechanism to recruit staff, conduct regular training & upskilling. It’s important to understand what instructions are being imparted to the team, how often is training being done and who trains them.

Market Presence – The agency needs to have a presence in the locations where you have a home. If you have multiple homes, It will be essential to learn how they operate from these locations & how do they ensure standardization across locations.

Feedback from clients – The best judge of a service is to take input from clients. It will help to understand the strengths & weaknesses of the cleaning agency. It will also help you plan the way you intend to structure the contract & service.

Adherence to quality standards & compliance – A check on the vendor’s compliance with regulations & cleaning standards is vital. The vendor also needs to use the appropriate chemicals that are approved and are less harmful. Using the right chemicals, in the right way & ensuring the proper process gets followed can be decisive to avoid accidents.

Why will commercial cleaning franchises always be in demand?

  • They’re a cost-effective way of keeping the workspace clean. If bosses ask their employees to make sure their desks or work areas are always spotless, they’ll have to take time out of their day to do extra cleaning duties.
  • They help create a professional feel for visiting clients. All businesses want to impress customers, whether they’re a retailer attracting shoppers, a legal firm welcoming clients or an online company hoping for new visitors – to name a few examples. By enlisting the help of a commercial cleaning franchise, bosses can make sure their workspace is ship-shape every single time a potential customer stumbles upon it. That means there’s never a mad panic at the last moment.
  • A clean workspace helps maintain workers’ mental and physical health. Businesses can protect their employees’ wellbeing by making sure their premises are always clean and tidy. Letting dust and grime accumulate can lead to unhygienic working conditions and even be dangerous at times when viruses are spreading or allergies are flaring up. But as well as negatively impacting workers’ physical health, business owners who put up with dirty workspaces may be putting their employees’ mental wellbeing at risk too.
  • They help maintain the building. If business owners make sure their premises are looked after on a day-to-day basis, they can reduce the likelihood of needing to carry out more significant work later on. In theory, paying for regular cleaning should be more cost-effective than forking out for major maintenance work. Either way, it’ll definitely save time.
  • Professional commercial cleaners will do a great job. As you can imagine, an established cleaning business will probably clean a workspace to a much higher standard than its occupants would. People who clean for a living will have specialised products to get real results and know all the tips and tricks for making a space look as good as new.

Advantages of residential team cleaning

Some cleaners may prefer to work alone, but is that in the best interest of your cleaning company? It’s about providing quality work while maintaining a fair profit. The team cleaning concept does just that!

Residential Team Cleaning has its advantages

Residential Team Cleaning has its advantages

One person can generally clean two to three houses a day on average, depending on the size, tasks, and driving distance. Cleaning teams, which can consist of two to four people, can clean up to seven houses a day. And regardless if paying mileage or providing a company car, it just costs more to have single cleaner traveling rather than using the team cleaning concept. Teams can pair up in a single vehicle, cutting down on the cost of mileage to and from each job.

Also, in situations where an employee is sick for the day, instead of having to reschedule or place someone in the home that is unfamiliar with the layout and required tasks, there are already team members who know the home and can cover the tasks of someone who is out.

Some companies have “floaters”, or employees who work where they’re needed – most times filling in for absent employees. Floaters work great for filling in because the other team members can give them direction on what they need to do and fill them in on anything out of the ordinary they need to pay attention to. This is more difficult when replacing a solo cleaner because the floater may not know the home and risk missing important tasks or special touches the client will be looking for.

How To Find Dentists In Your Area

Drills, needles, and pain, oh my! Coping with dental anxiety

For many people, going to the dentist is an unpleasant but manageable experience. For others, just the thought of going to the dentist causes severe anxiety, leading them to delay or avoid dental treatment. Unfortunately, this behavior can spiral into a vicious cycle of dental pain, health problems, worse anxiety, and more complex and costly dental procedures.

Dental anxiety and phobia

It’s very common for people to fear going to the dentist. When dental fear is severe and leads people to delay or cancel treatment, these individuals may meet criteria for dental phobia or odontophobia, which is included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition as a type of phobia. There are many different reasons for and triggers of dental anxiety. For some, they have had a previous traumatic experience; for others, they are extremely afraid of needles. Because the origin of fear can vary from patient to patient, it is critical that you identify your fears and share this with your dentist or another health care professional.

If you experience dental anxiety or phobia, here are some tips to ensure you maintain your oral health and receive comfortable dental care.

Prevention and the mouth-body connection

The best way to avoid complex dental procedures and pain is to regularly visit your dentist. Not only will your dentist diagnose problems and help you prevent future issues, but he or she will also help manage your oral health as part of your general health. Your mouth is the gateway to your body. For example, people with type 2 diabetes are more likely to have periodontitis, a type of bone and gum disease, which could lead to tooth loss. In fact, studies have shown that controlling diabetes can help control gum and bone health, and vice versa.

Reasons You Shouldn’t Dread Going To The Dentist

I used to be so afraid of going to the dentist that I put off going for a couple years. It wasn’t until my gums were inflamed and causing me pain that I actually went to go see the dentist. I am not alone. In fact, an estimated 75% of Americans experience fear or anxiety when going to the dentist. 10% of those people have dental phobia. Those with dental phobia don’t seek dental treatment unless an emergency arises. Yet, regular dentist visits are essential for maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile. Here’s why you shouldn’t avoid going to the dentist:

IT’S THEIR JOB TO HELP

Dentists don’t get any special joy out of causing you pain. It’s their job is to keep your mouth healthy, and they will do what they can to make sure you are comfortable during any treatment or procedure (hint: they want you to actually come back). Many dentists offices offer forms of sedation to make treatments are more comfortable.

THE LONGER YOU WAIT THE WORSE IT WILL GET

If you don’t floss regularly, plaque can harden to a point where it’s impossible for you to remove it by simply brushing or flossing. You need a professional to remove the tartar before it builds up and causes cavities. The more you visit the dentist – the easier time you will have each visit, especially if you are taking care of your teeth in between.

IT COULD COST YOU MORE MONEY

Patients who avoid the dentists because of fear or anxiety often end up needing more restorative work done. The extra work being done will cost you more time and money. If left untreated, small problems will grow into bigger ones and cause infections and tooth decay. With regular check ups, you can avoid these problems from the start.

ONE BAD DENTIST SHOULDN’T RUIN THEM ALL

Many people find themselves dreading the dentist after a bad experience with one office. Not all dentists are the same. There are dentists that do a great job of making their patients feel comfortable. Finding the right match for your mouth could make all the difference in your experience.

Tips to Overcome the Fear of Dentists:

Because avoiding the dentist is not the solution, we bring you some tips that can help alleviate your phobia of the dentists. Make sure to use these the next time your dentist appointment is round the corner!

* Introspect and try to reason with yourself as to what it is that makes you scared of the dentist. Pinpointing the reason will help you rationalize your worries.

* Ask a family member or friend to accompany you to the dentist. Having a loved one by side can boost your emotional strength.

* Try to distract yourself during the procedures. Listening to music, hanging on to a stress ball, counting numbers to yourself in mind are some good distraction techniques.

* Inform your dentist about your fears. Request them to keep the procedure as communicative as possible, meaning throughout the procedure they should keep you in the loop about what exactly they are doing and how that will feel.

* Don’t feel shy asking for breaks in between the procedure if you need some time to recompose yourself. 

The best dentists use simple methods to enhance that feeling of control

  • They gently explain what the patient will soon feel, and for about how long.
  • They frequently ask the patient for permission to continue.
  • They give the patient the opportunity to stop the procedure at any time the patient feels uncomfortable
  • They make time for breaks as requested.

Do You Have a Dental Phobia?

The first step to getting over any phobia or anxiety is to acknowledge that it exists in the first place. If you are avoiding the dentist there’s a good chance you have some level of dental anxiety.

Here are some of the most common reasons for dental phobias:

  • Childhood dental experience: the most formative dental memories are created during childhood years.
  • Painful dental experience: The mouth is one of the most heavily nervous areas in the body.
  • Dental related poor self-esteem: Some people fear going to the dentist because they feel embarrassed due to their mouth. This may be due to aesthetic problems and embarrassment with teeth, bad breath, gag reflexes, or chronic pain.

All of these conditions can cause a general fear of people looking at or being close to your mouth, which of course, is the very nature of dental treatment it self.

Commercial Electrical Maintenance Required By A Commercial Building

Electrical Installations & Maintenance

Before carrying out a commercial electrical installation, Mr. Electric takes the time to understand what a client is looking for. Depending on a company’s needs, this could range from a full electrical installation for a new commercial property to a partial rewiring of your current premises – if you are planning to extend or renovate, for example.

Once we have this information, we’ll put a design brief and quote together, so you can get a better understanding of the work involved and how much it will cost. While some parts of the installation will be essential, others won’t be. This means we can tailor your electrical installation to the unique needs of your business. Every aspect of the installation will have a fixed cost, saving you from any nasty surprises once the work is completed.

As a NICEIC Approved Contractor, you can rely on Mr. Electric to provide a first-class electrical service. All our electricians are trained to the very highest standard and always ensure that any electrical work complies with the latest safety regulations, including Part ‘P’ of the Building Regulations, the Electricity Supply Regulations and the Electricity at Work Regulations.

Electrical Installation Certificate

Upon completion of an electrical installation, addition or alteration, Mr. Electric will provide you with a certificate declaring that it meets the appropriate safety standards. This will either be an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) or a Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate (MEIWC).

Ongoing Electrical Maintenance

As an employer, it’s your responsibility to protect the health and safety of your employees. For that reason, you’ll need to ensure that your electrical installations are kept in good working order.

Commercial Electrical Maintenance Plans

Just like your HVAC system or plumbing, your electrical system needs periodic attention to maintain safety and reliability. Most everyone expects to flip the switch and see the lights come on. It is also a common expectation for the electrical systems in the house to last forever. Realistically, over time certain electrical components in a home can suffer just as much wear as plumbing or HVAC equipment. The contacts in light switches and receptacles can wear causing less than true connections. This can cause inconvenient flickering or blinking of lights or worse, overheating or arching which could be a potential fire hazard. Also, wiring heats up and cools down constantly as electrical components are turned on and off. This can lead to terminals on circuit breakers loosening due to expansion and contraction of the wire. This increases resistance and can cause wires to overheat. Since 1969, Peaden has been the trusted service contractor of choice for thousands of Northwest Florida Consumers. Over the past few years, our reputation and popularity as full service electrical contractor has grown in a similar fashion.

WHY INVEST IN AN ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE PLAN

The U.S. Fire Administration has advised that over $800 million in property damage are related to electrical fires. They go on to say that 33 percent of these are due to bad wiring that has aged or was substandard to start with. A Peaden EMP can help avoid these kinds of inconveniences and dangers by providing you a fixed price electrical system inspection and tune-up. We will inspect the main service entrance equipment, inspect all of the sub-panels, load test the existing circuits check for proper over-current protection of connected load, tighten all terminals and insure proper operation of ground fault devices.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM ITEMS INSPECTED

Examination of main service entrance equipment

Check of main service entrance connections

Inspection of sub panels

Load test of existing circuits

Check for proper current protection

Ensure proper operation of all GFIC and AFCI devices

Test function of smoke detectors

Test function of carbon monoxide detectors

Visually inspect receptacles and switches

Inspect cold water ground and ground rod

Visually inspect disconnect and check terminations

BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP

Peaden aspires to build a lasting partnership with you and your facility. Peaden’s commitment is unlike any of our competitors. In becoming your partner, we will help you establish financial, energy, and environmental goals. Our experienced electricians will examine your electrical system to evaluate and understand how well your system will perform in the future. Our electricians are trained to look for unusual and odd circumstances that might be telling signs of a problem on the horizon. We are determined to become a fiduciary asset to you and your business

COMMERCIAL MAINTENANCE PLAN ADVANTAGES

Evaluation of the Electrical System

Equipment Longevity

Maintain Manufacturer’s Warranty

Priority Service Call Response

Reduce System Breakdowns

3 Year Inflation Protection

15% Discount on Flat Rate Repairs

No Overtime Charges Ever

Are you searching for a reliable electrician?

We’re not like other electricians

Electricians Today has over 40 years electrical experience in every electrical service from household fit outs, safety audits and repairs to commercial contracts for Melbourne’s largest builders. Every project, big or small, gets the same attention to detail and high quality service. In fact, our professionals are handpicked for their expertise, reliability and problem-solving skills, and we carefully match the right electrician to your project. You can rest assured knowing that you’ll get a range of options to consider and each option will be great value for money. No empty promises. No inflated quotes. We want your building to be safer and your electricity usage cost effective.Take a look at some of our recent projects and see our services in action. Submit an online enquiry or give us a call on 1800 981 993 to discover how we can help you.

guarantee it

Enjoy the peace of mind of knowing you’ve hired a skilled professional who will provide great service and great value. All our technicians are certified, licensed and insured for both expert electrical work and safety. We only work with high quality parts and all our work is covered by a 2 year warranty.

Don’t need an electrician right now?

If you’re not ready to choose an electrician or electrical services provider just yet, contact us to get a copy of our brochure sent to you. It covers the electrical services we offer around Melbourne and why Electricians Today is the right choice for your project.

Winter Home Maintenance Tips

If you want to avoid costly repairs, make sure that your home is ready for the winter. But isn’t always easy to know what you can do now to help prepare and protect your property from the cold weather.

Check Your Gutters and Drainage

With winter comes increased rainfall, so you want to be ready. While cleaning out the gutter isn’t a fun job, it can save you money in the long run. Well maintained gutters can reduce the need to replace them, and the chance of roof damage.

Test Your Sump Pump

Sump pumps act as the last line of defense against condensation buildup, floods, and water from drains. Test the pump before winter hits. You want to make sure it works; otherwise, you could end up with a flooded basement and foundation damage.

Check Your Window Wells

Window wells are a great way to let natural light into your basement and provide ventilation. They also help keep soil away from the window fixtures. But if they are not maintained well, they can put your basement at risk.

Clean Your Dryer Vents

As the colder months set in, your dryer is likely to get more use. Dyers can be a fire hazard, causing over 15,000 fires each year, so it is important to reduce this risk.

Electric: Wired To Work

The Hidden Dangers of Putting Off Electrical Work at Your Property

As we are considering the health of our residents first, ignoring lingering electrical issues can create great dangers. In fact, hiring essential workers like plumbers and electricians, are very low risk of spreading germs.

Why It’s a Smart Idea To Have A Smart Doorbell Installed By An Electrician

In lieu of installing security cameras, more and more Maryland residents are opting for smart doorbells. Two of the most popular variety are Nest and Ring doorbells

Replacing Smoke Detectors – Outdated smoke detectors, or not having smoke detectors with carbon monoxide detectors is not only unsafe, it is illegal. Make sure your property is up to date with 10 year, hardwired dual protection units. Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors save lives. Period.

Pool and Hot Tub Wiring – Preparation is key for fun in the sun, and no one wants to call for an emergency electrician on a Saturday evening! Make sure your property is wired to work well this summer, and perform electrical inspections by a licensed electrician.

Panel Inspections and Upgrades – With more people with home offices set up, more resident chefs with restaurants closed, electrical consumption is increased. If your residents are experiencing circuits tripping, or lights flickering, you might need to have the panels inspected, STAT.

Checklist For Electrical Home Inspections

THE AUTHORITY OF THE ELECTRICAL INSPECTOR

All electrical inspectors have authority. The question is, How do they use it? Is it about their ego or about the work and safety for the customer?

Authority is needed in society to establish order; otherwise, there is chaos. Inspectors have authority for a purpose: to protect people and property. Some inspectors have misused their authority. That’s not what inspecting is about. Every electrical wireman or installer can recall from personal experience an inspector that in his view was unreasonable, unapproachable, or seemed to abuse his or her authority. Hopefully, they can also recall an electrical inspector who was professional and who possessed great experience and education, as well as good people skills, that they enjoyed working with; maybe, they even learned something from that inspector! Being this kind of professional should be the goal of every inspector.

All authority has its limits; everyone answers to someone. In order to have authority, one must be under authority. If a person gets out from under the authority, he may soon wind up with no authority and in trouble. Inspectors must follow the instructions of inspection supervisors, and work with them and the customers toward the goal of electrical safety. It would be nice if inspections always fit neatly in a box, but often they do not. How does the inspector deal with the situations when they do not? Existing installations can be an example of that.

Attitude

In inspecting, as in life, attitude is everything. Inspectors must be able to maintain a good attitude, even under stress and with difficult customers. Are the people whose jobs they inspect or whose questions they answer viewed as customers or inconveniences? What is the attitude of the inspector when he is speaking with customers on the telephone or in person? Is the inspector generally happy and positive, or is he negative and sulky? Would the inspector want to be treated in the same manner if the “shoe were on the other foot”? Most inspectors work for public agencies, and nearly all work with the public. If they are having trouble keeping a good attitude, they must seek help.

Influence

Electrical inspectors are seen as authorities on the Code. If they handle themselves in a professional manner, people will respect and look up to them. That brings with it the power of influence, which can be wasted or used for good to help and serve others. Whether inspectors realize it or not, they have a huge influence in the lives of others. One way is through praising workers for doing a good job. Since most electrical inspectors worked “with the tools” before becoming inspectors, they remember important things such as pride in workmanship or fine craftsmanship, and the fulfillment of producing work that a person can be proud of. Inspectors can influence those whose work they inspect by giving sincere praise for a job well done. It will be appreciated by the workers, and it will encourage them all the more to do fine work. Everyone likes to receive a sincere compliment on a quality installation, but most people receive little or no encouragement. However, if the inspector is truly sincere, it will be seen, and the compliment will be received.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY INSPECTIONS

Electricity is a wonderful thing; it allows us to heat and cool our homes, store our food, wash our clothes, and enjoy television and entertainment within our houses. We rely on electricity to be readily available to us whenever we need it, and it rarely crosses our minds that we may need to inspect or maintain electrical wiring for safety concerns

Signs You Need An Electrical Inspection

Did you know that electrical fires are responsible for over 13% of home fires? To put things into perspective, that accounts for over 51,000 fires every year occurring due to electrical distribution alone. Unfortunately, homeowners may oftentimes not be aware of the potential electrical dangers that they are surrounded by in their very own homes. For this reason, electrical inspections are critical for the safety of homeowners and their families. Below are a few signs that you should look out for. If you run into any of these sings, make sure to not ignore them and schedule an electrical inspection for your home as soon as possible, to prevent potential dangers and damages.

FLICKERING LIGHTS

Flickering lights are one of the most major signs to look out for when it comes to electrical safety. If you notice that your light bulbs are flickering, it usually means that there is an issue that has to do with other appliances attached to the same circuit. Certain appliances will need a certain amount of power to function. Such appliances are thus using more energy to work, and multiple heavy-duty appliances attached to the same circuit could be problematic and potentially dangerous. An electrical expert will be able to spot such issues and resolve them by attaching appliances to different circuits, to ensure the safety of you and your family.

SPARKS

Sparks from your home’s electrical system are never a good sign. This is a serious fire hazard – if you notice sparks from your home outlets or fuse boxes you should call an electrical expert straight away.

BURNING SMELL

If you notice a burning smell coming from any of your home’s electrical outlets of fuse boxes, it is a sign that you need an electrical inspection to ensure your safety. In such scenarios, we strongly advise you to stop using the power and call an electrical expert to take a inspect the situation.

Hiring a Home Inspector

It is often said that one of the most expensive and important purchases you will ever make will be your home. However, unlike the guarantee a buyer receives with most purchases, there’s no money-back guarantee or return policy if you’re not satisfied with your recently purchased home. Once you buy a home, you’re on your own to maintain it, repair it, anticipate problems and pay the bills. This is why it’s best to know as much as you can about potential problems before you buy.

What Home Inspectors Do

One of the best ways to see if a home is in good condition, livable and safe is to hire a professional home inspector. A properly trained home inspector will review your house as a system, looking at how one component of the house might affect how another component works or how long it will last. Home inspectors will go through the house and perform a complete visual inspection to assess its condition and all of its systems. They will determine the components that are not performing properly as well as items that are beyond their useful life or are unsafe. They will also identify areas where repairs may be needed or where there may have been problems in the past. Inspections are intended to help homebuyers better understand the condition of the house, as observed at the time of the inspection.

A pre-purchase inspection for a 165 to 205 m² (1,800 to 2,200 sq. ft.) home typically takes about three hours and costs around $500 (price may vary by province). Following the inspection, the buyer is presented with a written report, including all the details of the inspection. The home inspector should be willing to answer any questions a buyer might have and to clarify the limitations of the inspection to avoid misunderstandings.

Scope of the Inspection

A home inspection is intended to provide information about the condition of the home’s systems and components at the time of the inspection. An inspection will help you make an informed purchase decision. The home inspector will do a visual inspection by looking at the home’s various systems, including interior and exterior components. The inspector will check exterior components including roofing, flashing, chimneys, gutters, downspouts, wall surfaces, windows, doors, the foundation and the grading around it.

Note that, if the inspection takes place in the winter, the roof and the foundation may not be fully visible for inspection if they are covered with snow and ice. For safety and insurance reasons, the home inspector would not typically climb up on a roof covered with snow or ice. However, the home inspector will inspect the roof from the ground or other vantage point. This also applies to the chimney and downspouts

Electrical Permits – Residential

Work Limitations

Due to hazards involved, homeowners who are not certified master electricians cannot do work on the following :

Installing or relocating the main electrical service panel or service equipment

Installing swimming pool grounding and connecting the electrical equipment for a permanently installed swimming pool

A solar photo-voltaic (PV) system

If the home will be used for rental purposes

Inspection Information

A Homeowners Permit with an installation value (material only) of $1500 or less entitles the owner to one rough-in inspection. An installation value (material only) of more than $1500 will entitle the owner to two inspections, a rough-in and a final

Rough-in Wiring Inspection

All electrical outlet boxes are to be mounted and secured in place

All wiring has been installed, secured and brought into outlet boxes

All ground conductors have been terminated to the outlet box and necessary splices completed

All recessed lighting fixtures are installed and secured (except retrofit type fixtures) and wiring terminated in fixture junction box

You may install wiring in the main or sub panel (Caution: turn off main breaker before taking off panel cover and while installing wiring); do not connect wiring to branch circuit breakers at this time

Ensure all new wiring is isolated from all points that may become energized and re-install panel cover prior to turning on main breaker

Do not install any devices (receptacles, light fixtures) except those that may be needed for construction purposes

Electrical Inspections

Keep your Home Safe and Efficient with an Electrical Inspection!

Up To Code for Expansions & Renovations

A professional electrical inspection is a vital part of obtaining a code certification for any new construction, renovation, or expansion to your home. Our experienced electricians will conduct their inspection and are qualified by the state, as part of their certification process, to sign off on building code compliance for your electrical wiring

Quick and Efficient Service

While there is no way to guarantee the amount of time it will take to inspect your home, our electricians are experts in wiring, and can efficiently and comprehensively assess your home

Excellent Service Record

The choice for electrical inspection services, due in large part to our excellent service record and competitive pricing. We have a policy of no job being too large or too small, and provide comprehensive yet easy to understand reports for you at the end of our electrical inspection services.

Make sure your Home is running Efficiently

we electricians would be happy to inspect your current wiring, including performing connectivity and resistance checks between outlets, testing your circuit breaker panel for functionality, and generally giving your home an electrical checkup. If any issues are found, our experts will explain to you exactly what they found during the inspection and the best course of action to either repair, replace, or rectify any such issues

Tips To Become An Expert Camera Operator

WHAT ARE COMMON RATES FOR CAMERA OPERATORS

Motion picture production work can be a great way to pave your way toward loftier dreams or just get your hours on set to join one of the many technical unions. To make either of these dreams come true, you need to know what you’re worth. But that’s a tricky question.

First thing’s first, we need to know what kind of job you’re working. There are two different rates for every job:

  • Union
  • Non-Union

Once you know what kind of job you’re working, you can determine the day rate.Let’s start going through who does what and charges what.

Camera Operator

A camera operator is a person that records images, using a camera, for entertainment, news, sports, and more. Their job is to run the camera and capture images that enthrall an audience. But what does a camera operator charge?

NON-UNION CAMERA OPERATOR

A non-union camera operator’s daily rate is dependent upon the type of production they are working on and that production’s budget. If you’re working with friends, maybe you give them a break, but you should set your quote and stick with it, so when people refer you to jobs they’ll know ahead of time.  On an independent film shoot (short or full length), they will typically take in somewhere between $400/$500 per day,

What about on something independent but a little bigger, like a non-union commercial? On a commercial production (Corporate/Brand) a camera operator will make somewhere between $550/$650 a day.  So don’t let anyone bully you into taking less.

UNION CAMERA OPERATOR

Union job usually means a bigger production for a camera operator. These gigs might be for commercials, features, film, television, or news programs.Work for can be lucrative when you’re part of a union, because they help set your rates. That means there’s a floor to what you can legally be paid. So it’s much harder for an outfit to push you lower. It might be harder to negotiate because they usually have set budgets, but the pay can be high no matter what. Everything relies on the production’s budget. Union Camera Operators typically make more money an hour and between $750/$1000 a day. These rates are based upon the industry standard 10 hour day for any commercial production. Any overtime beyond 10 hours tends to be paid at 1.5 times the hourly rate, unless negotiations are worked out for a different rate. Standard Independent productions revolve around 12 hour days plus time and half OT.

Director of Photography Job Description

We are looking for visually creative candidates with expertise in camera work and lighting equipment. The Director of Photography is responsible for ordering and testing camera and lighting equipment, supervising a camera and lighting crew and editing a film’s visual elements in post production, among other duties.

Photography Directors need to work alongside a Film Director and help determine narrative elements through visual style.

Director of Photography Responsibilities:

  • Developing a film’s visual style.
  • Determining lighting requirements on set.
  • Deciding on the best camera angles and frames for scenes.
  • Ordering and testing lighting and camera equipment.
  • Supervising a camera crew and directing camera movement.
  • Selecting the appropriate film stock.
  • Determining camera aperture settings.
  • Controlling natural or artificial lighting conditions.
  • Liaising with electricians to ensure adequate electrical supply.
  • Determining elements such as filters, shutter angles, focus, depth of field and camera distance.
  • Editing visual elements in post production.

Pros and Cons of Being a Sports Cameraman

Sports cameramen, or camera operators, capture live sporting events and broadcast them for at-home viewers. Read on to see some of the pros and cons of a career as a sports cameraman.

Pros of Being a Sports Cameraman

  • Decent earnings potential (highest ten percent made more than $95,000 in May 2014)*
  • Can be your own boss (22% of camera operators were self-employed in 2012)*
  • Creative and technical career (use creativity to frame and put together images and technical knowledge to operate equipment)*
  • Exciting and fast paced (work around the sports and events you love)*

Cons of Being a Sports Cameraman

  • Highly competitive field (Slow growth expected from 2012 to 2022)*
  • Work long hours, nights and weekends (some jobs require on-call availability)*
  • Conditions can be less than ideal (work in all kinds of weather lifting and transporting heavy camera equipment)*
  • Work can be seasonal and require travel (self-employed must find work between seasons and may travel widely to jobs and events)*

Cinematography Certificate

Through these accelerated learning programs, students work in labs and learn filmmaking technique necessities. Common learning areas include:

  • Understanding film stocks
  • Cinematography techniques
  • Role of cinematographers
  • Cameras, lens and lighting
  • Using exposure meters

Associate of Arts in Motion Pictures

These 2-year degree programs offer students the opportunity to learn the basics of film and television, often while gaining knowledge from working industry professionals. These programs can aid graduates in landing entry-level employment while they learn how to launch careers as cinematographers. Common course options include:

  • Cinematography
  • Directing
  • Sound design
  • Editing
  • Screenwriting

Bachelor of Science in Digital Cinematography

As part of these programs, students learn about film production and shot framing in hands-on learning environments. As part of these programs, students produce a project that showcases the skills and methods they have learned throughout their coursework. Common courses include:

  • Lighting techniques and types
  • Production preparation, line production and post-production
  • Film crew
  • Shooting and editing effects
  • Animation

Clapper loader

A clapper loader or second assistant camera (2nd AC) is part of a film crew whose main functions are that of loading the raw film stock into camera magazines, operating the clapperboard (slate) at the beginning of each take, marking the actors as necessary, and maintaining all records and paperwork for the camera department. The name “clapper loader” tends to be used in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth, while “second assistant camera” tends to be favored in the United States, but the job is essentially the same whichever title is used. The specific responsibilities and division of labor within the department will almost always vary depending on the circumstances of the shoot.

Functions

Clapper loaders have a very important role as practically the only people on set who directly and physically oversee the state of the undeveloped negative. The loader – the only person who actually handles the negative between the manufacturer and the laboratory – thus can easily render an entire day’s work useless if the film is handled improperly. Additionally, the loader usually controls all records with regard to the film stock – from when it is received until when it is sent out to the lab; if this information is miscommunicated or missing, this too can destroy an expensive shoot. Furthermore, the loader usually has much more to do in addition to these tasks

Is It Possible To Get Rid Of Bed Bugs Without An Exterminator

Pest Control & Exterminators

SOONER OR LATER, we’re all pestered by pests. Whether it’s ants in the kitchen or weeds in the vegetable garden, pests can

be annoying and bothersome. At the same time, many of us are concerned that the pesticides we use to control pests can cause problems too. How can pests be controlled safely? When and how should pesticides be used? This is intended to help answer these questions. The questions have no single right answer, but our Guide to Pest Control and Pesticide Safety gives the information you need to make informed decisions. You should be able to control pests without risking your family’s health and without harming the environment. The major goals of this site is to help you understand.

What steps to take to control pests in and around your home. What alternatives to chemical pesticides are available, including pest prevention and non-chemical pest controls. How to choose pesticides and how to use, store, and dispose of them safely. How to reduce your exposure when others use pesticides. How to choose a pest control company. What to do if someone is poisoned by a pesticide.

PLANTS, insects, mold, mildew, rodents, bacteria, and other organisms are a natural part of the environment. They can benefit

people in many ways. But they can also be pests. Apartments and houses are often hosts to common pests such as cockroaches, fleas, termites, ants, mice, rats, mold, or mildew. Weeds, hornworms, aphids, and grubs can be a nuisance outdoors when they get into your lawn, flowers, yard, vegetable garden, or fruit and shade trees. Pests can also be a health hazard to you, your family, and your pets. It’s easy to understand why you may need and want to control them. Nowadays, you can choose from many different methods as you plan your strategy for controlling pests. Sometimes a non-chemical method of control is as effective and convenient as a chemical alternative. For many pests, total elimination is almost impossible,

but it is possible to control them. Knowing your options is the key to pest control. Methods available to you include pest prevention, non-chemical pest controls, and chemical pesticides. Each of these methods will be described in more detail in the sections

Pest Management

The most effective strategy for controlling pests may be to combine methods in an approach known as integrated pest management (IPM) that emphasizes preventing pest damage. In IPM, information about pests and available pest control methods is used to manage pest damage by the most economical means and with the least possible hazard to people, property, and the environment. An example of using the IPM approach for lawn care is presented in the next section of this

Identify the pest problem. This is the first and most important step in pest control—figuring out exactly what you’re up  against. Some pests (or signs of them) are unmistakable—most people recognize a cockroach or a mouse. Other signs that  m1ake you think “pest” can be misleading. For example, what may look like a plant “disease” may be, in fact, a sign of poor soil

How to Find & Hire a Professional Pest Control Company

What Do Exterminators vs. Pest Control Companies Do?

Exterminator and pest control company are interchangeable these days. These services treat existing pest or rodent infestations and help prevent future invasions. Reputable pros practice integrated pest management (IPM).

How Does Pest Control Work?

Unlike one-time extermination, pest control is a long-term process that relies on regular inspections, preventive measures, chemical and non-chemical treatments. Integrated services may save homeowners time and money by preventing expensive structural damage or infestation caused by pests like termites and bed bugs.

IPM practices attempt to control and/or eliminate insects and rodents through these five steps:

Inspection – A pro will check areas in and around your home where insects or rodents are common.

Prevention – After an inspection, pros will recommend measures like reducing food or water sources or performing structural maintenance.

Identification – Accurate identification helps a pro select the most effective treatment with the least impact to people, pets and the environment.

Treatment – This may be chemical, non-chemical or a combination of the two.

Monitoring – Pros will follow up to ensure treatment is effective. He/she will also suggest a schedule of regular inspections.

What Do Pest Control Companies Use?

Professionals often start with non-chemical pest control. If those methods don’t work, they might use a chemical treatment containing one or more active ingredients proven to kill or repel the insect.

In most cases, manufacturers register active, pest-control ingredients with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This registration indicates the product has been tested to determine potential environmental or human side effects. You can find this information on the product label and in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).

How To Choose The Most Qualified Pest Exterminator

When Should I Use Professional Pest Control?

When you have a pest control problem, it’s best to contact an exterminator. Realizing you need a professional is easy. However, because there are so many to choose from, knowing which company to hire can be overwhelming. Not all pest control companies are equal. Do your research – you don’t want to hire just any random company

How Do I Choose A Pest Control Company?

When considering a pest control company, find out if they are licensed. Are they bonded? Most importantly, are they properly trained? These are things you need to know before letting pest control technicians into your home.

Being licensed, bonded, and trained better qualifies a pest control company to treat your residence or business. You can confirm that a company is licensed by contacting the local agency that issues pest control operators’ licenses. A pest control company must be bonded to ensure they will pay for any damage that might occur when your home or business is being serviced. Often the state pesticide agency will offer certifications and training to local pest control companies. Don’t be afraid to ask a pest control technician questions about the specifics of his/her training

Pest Control Do it Yourself or Hire a Professional?

Most of the animal and plant species that share our world do not make a nuisance of themselves. Many are beneficial, such as ants and termites, when they do not interfere with human property and activities. In fact, less than 1 percent of all species are pests that negatively affect our lives by invading our space, damaging our property and threatening our health.

Rodents (rats and mice) annually consume and contaminate about 20 percent of the world’s food supply. Without pest control, half of our food might be destroyed by crop and stored product pests. Rodents also do untold damage to property – their gnawing is a suspected cause of fires attributed to unknown causes. As for insects, termites alone cost Americans about $1.5 billion each year in damage repair and control – more than the combined cost of all natural disasters.

Pest tolerance in crop land is usually based on the cost of control. Sometimes pests can be numerous and do considerable damage to a crop before the cost of that damage outweighs the cost of control. However, we are less tolerant of pests in the urban environment. Most of us are very concerned upon finding insects living with us, so much that the presence of a single cockroach or flea will prompt pest control in the home.

Structural pest control decisions are sometimes based more on emotion than economy. After all, fear of arthropods (insects, spiders and their kin) is our third most common fear (behind public speaking and heights), and spiders are the second most feared animal (behind snakes)

While fear, often unfounded, can sometimes be the stimulus for initiating pest control services, some pests do pose a very real threat to humans. Health concerns associated with structural pests include venomous stings and bites in addition to the transmission of diseases including food poisoning, allergies and Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. Pests also can have a psychological impact on us, for example, from the unsettling feeling of knowing (or suspecting) you are living with insects, spiders, rats or mice.

Tips for Choosing a Pest Professional

In order to get the quality service you need, however, you will want to use the following steps to ensure you get the best:

Find out if the exterminator in Baltimore has experience with your type of pest problem. Sometimes, pest control companies specialize, but you will want one with expertise with your specific pest problem.

Best practice – get references. There really is no substitute for this, so go with one that comes with referrals from your friends or relatives that have used the company.

Find out if the Baltimore exterminator is trained and licensed.

Look to see if there are any guarantees. If they are dealing with termites, you also want to know if they have liability insurance – just in case they never actually get rid of them.

Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there are complaints against the company. Your state will also have a similar list.

Get at least 2 or 3 estimates before you buy, then compare services offered and price before you choose one.

Find out how long the service is good for. There will be a contract, and it will state how many months the Maryland exterminator will service your home or business.

Learn what chemicals they use and how they are distributed in your home or business. In most cases, you want to go for limited amounts and limited distribution. Note that warmer climates may require a wider usage.

Understand how often treatments are repeated and how many treatments are covered in the contract.

For termite contracts, find out if the damaged wood will be replaced, and when reinspections will be performed. Also learn about where treatment stations will be placed and the types of chemicals used – get the labels.

Find out what the company will do in the way of prevention, how long it will take, and how often they need to return for inspections, cleanup, etc.

Depending on the particular pest, your service professional should always perform the services as covered in the Agreement. Do not expect anything to be done for you if it is not in print. Make sure that you understand all aspects of the Agreement, too, before you sign anything.

Understanding What A Chiropractor Does

How To Choose A Good Chiropractor

I heart you but come on man! What’s up with the scathing rant about chiropractor on your podcast? And SciBabe tearing the profession down in the most unintelligent, can barely make a sentence way, it just break my heart. But you did it! You got people talking, slinging claims on both sides of the fence.

What it comes down to is this: There is a layer of skepticism that cloaks chiropractic in the medical community. And that trickles down to the community in general. But, while it’s always been there, I don’t think it always will be. The truth is, there’s a major shift happening. Chiropractic is gaining credibility more and more, and even medical doctors are beginning to refer their patients for spinal manipulation, physical rehabilitation, and looking at the body head to toe to find the root cause. Yes, you read that correctly. Medical doctors are now referring their patients to chiropractors. And it’s about time!

Two in three people will likely experience significant low back pain at some point in their lives. And because most back pain resolves over time, therapies aimed at symptom relief and allowing the body to heal naturally are ideal. Less traditional approaches, like the nonpharmacological practices of physical therapy and chiropractic have proven quite effective and, in many cases, safer than medication.

Physicians are now beginning to understand what chiropractic patients have known for years. Spinal manipulation works. In a large survey of patients from 2002 through 2008 found that more than 30% of them sought chiropractic care. That’s a lot of people lining up time and again for something that “doesn’t work” according to Rogan

For decades, there was little research done on chiropractic, and what little research was available was shoddy at best, making the results pretty grim. Recently though, we’ve been seeing an upswing in higher-quality studies, which means a pretty good accumulation of data.

things you should look for when choosing a chiropractor.

Private Adjusting Rooms

In recent years, chiropractic clinics are turning to open room treatments. While this is perfectly legal, it’s not always the best option. You want an office to have a completely private treatment setting to feel the most comfortable and to discuss any concerns at any time with your practitioner. Privacy and patient outcomes should always be the top priority of any clinic.

Detailed Examinations

An in-depth examination is key to find not only where the problem is located, but what is causing the problem in the first place. In some chiropractic offices you are rushed through an examination at first, with a quick adjustment and out the door you go. This should not be the case. In order for any doctor to treat you effectively they need to conduct a thorough exam to uncover the root cause of the issue. Before you start care at any chiropractic clinic, make sure they have not only the procedures, but also the technology and equipment to conduct a thorough exam. Digital X-rays, thermography, and orthopedic tools are just a few things a potential patient should be looking for.

Pre and Post Measurements

Again, a detailed examination is key. A huge part of that examination are X-ray findings. X-rays are a great indicator on how and to what degree the spine has shifted. This needs to be done to take a look at what is actually going on with your spinal system. These also need to be interpreted accurately, and in a way for the patient to understand. The doctor should always sit down with the patient and patient’s family to go over the X-rays with them. It is a huge part of patient care that is often overlooked. Find a clinic that focuses on analytical findings, and pre & post measurements so you can actually see the progress you’re making.

Local Involvement

Do the doctors that work in this office take initiative with community involvement? Are they in service organizations and participate in projects around town? Do they live in the community in which they practice in? If they do, more than likely they will have a vested interest in community health. Choose a chiropractor that lives in the town they practice in and puts service above themselves.

Chiropractic the Main Thing

When you look on their website or Facebook page is it flooded with weight loss program deals? Do they push supplements, vitamins, or protein powders more than chiropractic care? Some chiropractic clinics say they offer so much, you can’t tell if they are a chiropractic office, weight loss clinic, or a physical therapist. Many chiropractic clinics focus their attention and marketing on servces/products that aren’t affiliated with chiropractic simply to increase their bottom line. By not focusing the majority of their time and attention on quality examinations and treatments, patient care may be falling by the wayside. Make sure to choose a chiropractic clinic that unmistakably keeps chiropractic care the main thing.

How to Choose a Good Chiropractor

Making the decision to visit a chiropractor to help with your back pain is a positive move. But choosing the right chiropractor is just as important as choosing to see one in the first place. So to help you make sure your chiropractor is right for you, we’ve compiled the check list below.

If you’re chiropractor ticks these boxes, then you’re more than likely on to a good thing:

1: A good chiropractor will make referrals to other professionals if you problem can’t be treated with chiropractic care.

2: Your chiropractor should make nutritional, exercise and lifestyle recommendations where necessary.

3: A chiropractor who has your best interests at heart will be happy when you feel good. In other words, your chiropractor shouldn’t offer additional appointments if you don’t need them.

4: Your chiropractor should work with you throughout your treatment plan and listen and act upon any concerns you may have.

How to choose a good chiropractor

At the London Wellness Centre we will always treat patients individually. Your treatment will be decided following a thorough assessment which uses muscle testing, postural analysis, detailed examination and a full medical history.

A Chiropractor should never treat you without this type of assessment. They should never hurt, aside from a feeling of pressure or mild discomfort. When looking for a reputable chiropractor, make sure they are registered with the GCC and that they provide this type of thorough service

Chiropractors are known for treating necks and backs as they have such a high success rate in treating these areas. However, chiropractors train for five years before qualifying and entering private practice. In order to use the title Chiropractor (which is protected) they have to be registered with the General Chiropractic Council.

Can sacroiliac joint pain be cured?

Yes. But the extent to which we can ease any type of pain, or reduce the chance of a condition recurring will depend on the individual and the type of treatment we are able to carry out. Why not come and see us at the London Wellness Centre and let us assess your health and wellbeing and arrange a personalised treatment plan?

Chiropractor vs physiotherapist

Chiropractors and physiotherapists both treat joint pain and musculoskeletal problems but they do it in very different ways. Chiropractors are also neurologically trained so they focus on the messages sent around the body by the central nervous system. They usually use manipulation as a technique – realigning joints and releasing muscles and nerves – whereas physiotherapists use mobilisation through exercise instruction and occasional soft-tissue work.

The Ultimate Guide To Seeing A Chiropractor

“Chiropractor” is one of the most searched phrases on Google. It comes as no surprise as chiropractic treatments work wonders not only for lower back pain, neck and shoulder aches pains, but also for conditions such as “wear and tear” knee pain

Is chiropractor a doctor?

A chiropractor, or doctor of chiropractic, is a health care provider who is trained to diagnose and treat joint and muscles disorders. Contrary to popular belief, chiropractors do not work with bones.

Traditional vs. modern chiropractors

Not all chiropractors are the same. Traditional chiropractors – known also as “straight” chiropractors – believe they can correct “subluxations” or misalignment in the spine with chiropractic adjustments. According to them, spinal misalignment disrupts the nervous system and correction of the “subluxations” will give better health.

However, there is no evidence to support a subluxation-based approach to pain and injury. Modern chiropractors apply the latest research in their treatments. We move follow an evidence-based framework and utilise the research-proven treatments to help you achieve faster recovery.