Tag Archive for: Business

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What Arbitration Is And Why It Matters For Business Owners

Running a business means you will eventually face disputes. These conflicts could be with employees over contract terms or workplace issues, customers over product quality or service delivery, suppliers over payment or delivery terms, or business partners over profit sharing or decision-making. When disagreements arise, the traditional route of resolving them in court can be time-consuming, expensive, and stressful – not to mention completely public. Anyone can look up a court case and read about the allegations, who’s involved, and what happened. And since the court process is deliberately adversarial, the facts presented by each side are usually, let’s say, less-than-flattering of the other side. Those public allegations against you or your business could even be false. Luckily, there’s an alternative: arbitration. Arbitration is a method of resolving disputes outside the courtroom, offering a quicker, more cost-effective, and private way to settle issues. 

In this article, we will delve into what arbitration is, its benefits for business owners, situations where arbitration is particularly advantageous, and how to prepare for it. Understanding arbitration can equip you with the knowledge to save time, money, and stress, helping you keep your business running smoothly even in the face of conflicts. 

We’ll start with the basics and explain what arbitration is and what it is not.

What is Arbitration?

Arbitration is a method of resolving disputes outside of the courtroom. You may have heard the term “alternative dispute resolution” or “ADR,” which refers to specific processes that help parties resolve their disputes without court intervention. Arbitration in one form of ADR. Another form of ADR is mediation, which is a much different process, but many people confuse the two. Check back here next week for a thorough discussion about mediation so you can have absolute clarity about the difference between these forms of ADR and know when to employ each for the success of your business. 

What Arbitration Is: Arbitration is like a private court in that a neutral third party, known as an arbitrator, listens to both sides and decides who wins and who loses. The arbitrator is typically an expert in the field related to the dispute, ensuring a fair and informed decision. It looks a lot like the court process. Both sides present their cases to the arbitrator and call witnesses. The lawyers for each side get to cross-examine witnesses and admit documents into evidence. At the end of the proceeding, the arbitrator issues a formal decision in writing, and that decision is binding, meaning you and the other party must follow it. To give further weight to the arbitrator’s decision, it is often submitted to a court for the judge to sign. Notably, only the decision is presented to the court – no facts of the case, arguments, or evidence will be made public. 

It’s vital to note that the decision usually involves exchanging money. Arbitration is not available in cases where someone’s liberty is at stake. 

What Arbitration Is Not: Arbitration is not the default resolution process. Both parties must agree that if any dispute arises between them in the future, they agree to settle the matter through arbitration. This agreement must be outlined in a written contract, and most states have specific rules on how the arbitration clause in a contract must be phrased and executed. One deviation could make the clause unenforceable, meaning you end up in court anyway. 

Arbitration rules are less stringent than court rules, offering a more flexible and faster process. While it’s ideal for the arbitrator to be genuinely neutral and an expert in the type of dispute, that’s not always the case. Since no formal court rules are in place to ensure impartiality and the arbitrator’s expertise, the parties may or may not be able to petition for another arbitrator to hear the case. Furthermore, unlike a jury trial with a judge, there aren’t the same checks and balances. The arbitrator possesses all the power over the process and the final decision, giving you more control over the resolution process.

Now that you understand the basics, we’ll discuss how arbitration benefits you as a business owner. 

Benefits of Arbitration for Business Owners

Since you’re busy running a business, arbitration offers many benefits. Here are a few.

Arbitration Saves Time. Going to court can be a long, drawn-out process. It can take months, if not years, to resolve. Court cases are often delayed, and you might be stuck in legal limbo. Arbitration, on the other hand, is designed to be fast and efficient. Arbitrators typically start the process quickly and keep it moving until the conclusion. This means you spend less time away from running your business.

Arbitration Saves Money. Legal fees can also add up quickly in court cases, significantly the longer it takes to resolve. Attorneys charge for their time, and the longer it goes on, the more expensive it becomes. Arbitration is generally less pricey because it avoids many of the formalities of a court case. If your lawyer charges by the hour, fewer billable hours means lower costs for you. 

Arbitration Keeps Your Affairs Confidential. This may be the most enticing reason for choosing arbitration as a dispute resolution method. Court cases are public, which means anyone can look up the details of your dispute. This can be embarrassing and might harm your business reputation. Arbitration, however, is a private process. The hearings are not open to the public, and the details are only disclosed if both parties agree. This confidentiality can protect your business’s image and sensitive information.

When to Choose Arbitration

While arbitration has many benefits, it’s not always the best choice for every dispute. However, here are some situations where arbitration can be particularly advantageous.

Contract Disputes. Contract disputes are highly technical and can boil down to the interpretation of one or two words that may seem ordinary to laypeople (juries, for instance) but have specific meanings under the law. However, many arbitrators are current or former lawyers, and they’ll often be able to parse out the technical details and specific legal terms without explanation or ambiguity.

Employment Issues. Employment disputes, such as disagreements over wages, working conditions, or wrongful termination, can be sensitive and complex. Using arbitration for these issues can help maintain a better relationship with your employees. The confidentiality of arbitration also means that the details of these disputes won’t become public, which can protect both your business and your employees’ privacy.

Business-to-Business Disputes. When you have a conflict with another business, arbitration can help maintain a professional relationship. Since the process is less adversarial than a court case, you’re more likely to reach a resolution that allows both parties to continue working together. This can be especially important if the other business is a key supplier, customer, or partner.

The Importance of Expert Guidance

Before we close, I want to emphasize an important point: with arbitration, you can override the default dispute resolution process—court—by simply agreeing to it. However, with great opportunity comes great responsibility. The court process has formalities built in to protect the parties, and since arbitration is less formal, you want to be very careful about choosing arbitration to resolve business disputes. After all, a decision against you or your business could mean a big payout to the other party. 

I aim to ensure your business thrives. I can advise and counsel you to help you make the best decisions about resolving business disputes with as little impact on your business as possible. I also create and review contracts, including those with arbitration clauses. Finally, I help you put your foundational legal, insurance, financial, and tax systems in place so your business is protected from risk and prepared to resolve disputes before they arrive at the point where arbitration is needed. All this saves you time and money, so you can direct your energy and attention to what you do best: running your business. 

The Advisor You Need, No Matter What Happens

As your trusted advisor, I understand the negative impact of conflict on you and your business. That’s why I offer a comprehensive Business Breakthrough Session where we’ll analyze your current business foundations – including protecting your business from the risk of conflict – and develop a plan to address gaps. Together, we’ll ensure that your business is well-equipped to handle anything that happens. With my support, you can confidently engage with third parties, safeguard your brand’s reputation, and focus on what you do best—growing your business.

Contact us today!

This article is a service of Res Nova Law, a Personal Family Lawyer® Firm. We don’t just draft documents; we ensure you make informed and empowered decisions about life and death, for yourself and the people you love. That’s why we offer a Life & Legacy Planning™ Session, during which you will get more financially organized than you’ve ever been before and make all the best choices for the people you love. You can begin by calling our office today to schedule a Life & Legacy Planning™ Session.

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The Surprising Secret to Business Success: Replacing Yourself!

You embarked on your entrepreneurial journey with a seedling of an idea, nurturing it through the challenging early years with grit and personal sacrifice. Over time, that seedling grew into a thriving enterprise, a testament to your passion, dedication, and hands-on leadership. 

Your business has become an extension of yourself. After all, you are the boss, the visionary, the indispensable driving force behind it all. At least, that’s how it may feel. But even for a skilled leader, there is one uncomfortable truth to accept – at some point, you must replace yourself if you want your company to outlive you, whether through a sale, retirement, death, or incapacity. Paradoxical as it sounds, making yourself replaceable is the ultimate key to ensuring your business’s longevity.

The Paradox of Replacing Yourself

As an entrepreneur, you’ve worked incredibly hard to build your company from the ground up. Your business is your baby – the product of your passion, sacrifice, and commitment. Probably one of the last things you’re thinking about is either closing it down or handing it off to someone else. 

Here’s a reality check: no matter how indispensable you might feel, your business cannot rely solely on you to thrive in the long run. Whether due to retirement, illness, or the inevitable passage of time, there will come a day when you won’t be around to call the shots. If you haven’t prepared for that day, your life’s work could be at risk. Your loved ones could end up in court or conflict, and your business partner(s) or team members could be left in limbo. But all these outcomes are avoidable, if you plan ahead.

So, what does it mean to plan? It means you must make it your mission to replace yourself as the boss systematically. It seems paradoxical. You’ve worked hard to get your business off the ground, so why would you willingly give that up? The answer is sustainability – if you want your company to thrive for generations, you must let go of the reins, at least at some point. 

Think of it not as stepping down, but as the ultimate act of leadership and love. By planning for your succession, you ensure your business continues serving, providing jobs, and supporting your loved ones. You’re leaving a lasting legacy, a testament to your vision and hard work. What a gift you’re giving to your customers and your loved ones! 

Think briefly about what could have happened to Apple after Steve Jobs died. Had he not made a plan to replace himself, your iPhone may be just a relic today, maybe even stashed away in a box in your attic. Apple could have been broken up and sold off, or Steve Jobs’ loved ones could have been tied up in court and conflict with the other Apple shareholders. 

Thankfully, none of this happened. iPhones are still made and improved yearly, and new products have been introduced since Jobs’ death. Apple is still one of the world’s most profitable and influential companies. 

You don’t have to be as well-known as Steve Jobs and Apple to apply the same lessons. Replace yourself, and your business continues to serve people and enrich their lives. Don’t replace yourself, and your business likely ends when you do. 

It’s that simple.

Identify Your Successors

So, how do you go about replacing yourself? Start by identifying whether you have any internal team members to develop as potential successors, or if you’ll need to consider an outside sale of your Company, or possibly hiring for future succession. Don’t worry about finding a carbon copy of yourself, but molding people who share your vision and can build upon what you’ve created.

Groom these people over the years by delegating more significant responsibilities to them. Slowly but surely, remove yourself from the day-to-day decisions and operations and see how they progress. Provide candid feedback, guidance, and advice, playing more of a coaching and mentoring role.

As you release the reins to others, you’ll necessarily need to shift away from working “in” the business to working “on” or even “above” the business. This is the perfect time to analyze your systems and ensure your business has the right foundations for succession. If you aren’t sure you have the suitable foundational systems in place (specifically, your legal, insurance, financial, and tax systems), engage with a trusted advisor who can help you, like us, or even a team of advisors, such as our dream team we’ve assembled. 

Before I move on to the next section, I want to point out something important. Did you notice above I said “people” instead of “person” when identifying business successors? That was intentional. For the health of your organization, you need a full bench of empowered leaders, not just one person waiting in the wings. Cross-train multiple employees or family members, document processes, and get everyone aligned with your company’s mission, values, and strategic direction. This is not only smart but ensures continuity across the organization.

The Hardest Part: Let Go of Control

One of the toughest challenges as an entrepreneur is letting go of control and relinquishing the power and final say you’ve grown accustomed to. You have to fight against instincts of micromanagement and trust that your successors can rise to the occasion when you’re not calling every shot. The hardship and wisdom will stay if you relinquish that control in stages. 

This can be a tough mindset shift for entrepreneurs who have hung their entire sense of purpose and identity on their business. But it’s crucial for the long-term viability of their life’s work. After all, what good is all that success if it gets erased the day they’re gone?

Does it mean you have to check out entirely someday? Not at all! You’ll begin by establishing clear key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure so you can ensure your team is hitting their metrics and that you can monitor results even without being involved in the day-to-day. In the long term, you may want to stay involved as an advisor board member or just have your name on the wall. The point is to separate your identity and personal involvement from the company’s ability to operate successfully.

Make Sure to Formalize Your Plan

So now you know the importance of replacing yourself, you’ve identified successors, and you’re letting go of control. Formalizing your plan is essential so it will be honored and enforceable. How do you do that? Work with a professional. As a Business Advisor, I can guide you to document your wishes correctly and encourage you to think about death and succession and something you may have overlooked – your incapacity. You need a plan not only for what happens if you’re no longer around but also for what happens if you’re around but unable to participate in your business, whether it’s from a terrible accident or a severe illness. You’ll want someone who can walk you through these challenging scenarios so you’re empowered to make the best decisions for you and your business.

The Business Advisor Who Has Your Back

As your Business Advisor, I am committed to guiding you through the crucial process of replacing yourself as the leader of your business. This will allow your business to carry on without you and make a difference in other people’s lives. Together, we’ll create and refine your foundational systems and build a solid plan so your life’s work thrives for generations. That’s the secret to business success and the gift you give to your customers, team members, and loved ones.

Book a call to learn more. Contact Res Nova Law Firm today!

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Why Entrepreneurs Are Choosing Modern Construction Solutions

Prefabricate metal buildings with steel frames are quickly become a top choice for business owners wanting a modern construction. Their durability, flexibility, and custom options make them an ideal choice for just about any business. Let’s find out why entrepreneurs are choosing prefab metal buildings instead of traditional wood and brick structures.

The Benefits of Operating a Business Out of a Pre-engineered Metal Building

There are many perks of running a business pre-fab building. These steel-framed structures have greater structural strength than most other materials. Cost-effective and weather-resistant, these buildings can be constructed quickly, require little maintenance, and are highly resilient to extreme weather conditions.

Typically, parts to construct the building are delivered at one time, and they can be put together by a team rather quickly. These pre-engineered kits can be erected by a small crew so labor costs are minimal and operations can start sooner. This means less worry and stress for owners and management.

Due to the solid, rust-free, and corrosion resistance of metal and steel, prefabricated buildings are easy to maintain. These structures do not have to face the same type of wear and tear that a wood structure does, which is something that small business owners in particular can appreciate.

Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings Offer Multiple Custom Design Options

The developments in steel and metal structures as of late have made an array of things that can be done concerning pre-engineereed metal building choices in design, size, and customization. Not only can these buildings serve as storage facilities, garage repair facilities, places of worship, and smaller fabrication plants, but they can be designed to have entry doors and windows to welcome customers. One building can be designed to serve a variety of purposes and functions.

Cutting Cost and Boosting Green Building

When you choose a prefabricated building kit, putting it together is easier and reduces labor costs and the need for equipment. This allows for a more eco-friendly construction process and saves money. The prefab concept makes putting together metal buildings rather eco-conscious and lets you lessen your carbon footprint beyond construction.

The return on investment doesn’t end there. These prefab metal buildings offer owners increased energy efficiency. Energy expenses are a major component of overhead that many owners battle each month. However, prefabs can be crafted as air-tight structures that can include insulation, making them effective energy expense minimizers.

Additional cost savings come in the form of low-profile roofs and colors that can lower energy use. Furthermore, those who opt for customization can choose a cool roof system that helps dissipate the sun’s heat. Furthermore, these buildings are strong and not susceptible to many external elements. Along with the minimal maintenance these structures combined, consider a prefab for current or new business.

Looking to Make a Change or Start Up a Business?

If you are ready for an affordable, resilient, and environmentally friendly construction solution, there are ways to go about it. Pre-fabricated metal buildings offer endless possibilities for entrepreneurs and managers alike.

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Five Things to Know Before Getting a Storage Unit

Storage units are ideal for freeing up space in your home, storage for items you use in your home business, or keeping your belongings while moving or being deployed in the military. They are convenient to give you additional space and declutter your home. Here are five things to consider when renting your first storage unit:

1. Types of Units Available

There are indoor storage facilities and outdoor ones that you can pull your vehicle up to load and unload. The indoor storage units are typically climate-controlled, which is ideal for anything affected by extreme cold or humidity. Outdoor units are not climate-controlled, but they are less expensive. The self-storage units come in various sizes, ranging from 5’x5’ to 10’x20’ or larger. If you plan to access the storage unit before permanently removing your items, be sure to get a large enough unit to easily access your belongings with an aisle down the middle so you can reach items in the back.

2. What Will I Store?

Most self-storage facilities have safety restrictions prohibiting you from storing certain items. These can include firearms, hazardous materials, and anything illegal. Most people use them for household goods, furniture, and holiday decorations that they don’t want to sell or donate.

3. What Do I Need to Do to Rent a Self-Storage Unit?

Find one in a convenient location that is reasonably priced. Read the contract carefully. There can be a minimum amount of time you have to rent the unit, although most are month to month. It’s rare to find anywhere that will let you rent for less than a month, minimum. Focus on what happens if you are late making your payment or forget to pay. You could lose all your possessions if the facility auctions off the contents. They will make you pay to have the lock cut off and an auction fee as well if you default on your payments. Consider letting the facility have automatic payments from your bank account if this is offered. You also have to show a valid government ID to rent a self-service storage unit. Tell a family member about your unit and leave them the information in case anything ever happens to you and you are in the hospital, so you don’t lose your stuff.

4. Access

Find out what times you can access your storage unit. It may be 24 hours, but many facilities only allow access during normal business hours. If you only have a vehicle you can use to move stuff out, this will be important.

5. Security

Indoor and outdoor self-storage facilities should be well-lit with security cameras. A guard on the premises is even better. You’ll be supplying your lock to guard your items safely. The facility may have insurance you can buy, or your homeowner’s insurance may cover the contents. Photograph and list your most valuable items in case you ever need to put in a claim. If your unit is broken into, it is usually your responsibility unless the storage unit was negligent, like forgetting to lock the gate. Never store anything irreplaceable, like valuable jewelry, in a self-storage unit. Get a safety deposit at your bank instead for those items.

By: Katherine Robinson, a writer for SMARTBOX

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Tips: What You Should Look For in a Quality Belt Grinder

Purpose and Functionality

One of the first things you should consider before choosing a belt grinder is which kind of projects you’ll need it for. For example, some belt grinders can be used with attachments and accessories that give them a wider range of functions. Occasionally, manufacturers will even include bonus attachments with certain models.

Belt Size and Length

While more compact belt grinders are typically less expensive than other models, you may end up paying more for replacement belts. Longer belts are better able to handle the heat from grinding since the wear is dispersed over more material. 

You may also be tempted to get a belt grinder with a wide belt, but these are not ideal for all kinds of projects. Knife making, for example, requires a two-inch belt. Anything thinner or wider will make it harder to perform the right functions.

Speed Settings

Not every belt grinder comes with a variable speed belt, but getting one that does can be a huge help. Some projects require very high speeds, while others don’t. Having the ability to choose the speed you’re using increases the number of materials you can work with.

Belt

Motor Size

Another important thing to look for in a quality belt grinder is a reliable and high-power motor, especially if you’re looking at a model without variable speed. A grinder with a weak motor just won’t perform as well, even if the price is more affordable.

The Right Belt Grinder

Follow these tips to make sure you choose the belt grinder that’s right for your projects. Once you have the machine you want, you’ll need to properly maintain your belt grinder to ensure it lasts as long as possible. With the right care, a quality belt grinder should last you quite a while.

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Business: The 5 Best Type of Caterpillar Engines

When you think about construction equipment, the sizeable yellow machinery associated with Caterpillar is probably the first to come to mind. There are many advantages of Caterpillar engines when it comes to quality; however, if you’re wondering which are the best types of Caterpillar engines, consider the following.

Cat C7

The C7 was in production throughout the 2000s and was a memorable piece of equipment for being one of the earlier engines to adapt to new regulations imposed by the EPA. Trucking companies favored the C7 during that time for its reliability. However, Cat decided to take things in another direction and stopped production of the C7 in 2010.

Cat 3306

The 3306 is one of Cat’s older and more reliable engines, having made its debut in the 1970s. The main draw of the 3306 is that this engine ran efficiently but had a simple design that was easy to maintain and repair. Cat ceased production on the 3306 in the early 2000s when emission regulations led to the C7 and C9 models, which adhere to government regulations.

Caterpillar
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Cat 3116

While we often associate Caterpillar engines with construction equipment or heavy trucks, the 3116 made a big splash thanks to its frequent use in marine equipment. At 2400 rpm, the 3116 had around 205 horsepower, though the engine had some issues with a weaker top end compared to other models.

Cat C15

The C15 remains one of the best Caterpillar engines for industrial usage. The engine boasts a single turbocharger and parts that can be easily swapped out with the similar 3406E engine. Relief slots in the C15 are beneficial in protecting the gaskets from heavy weight.

Cat 3408

Cat’s 3408 engine remains one of their most popular engines on the market. The 3408 contains a lot of power and is stable, reliable, and easy to modify. The eight-cylinder engine produces around 500 horsepower and remains a popular model for construction, mining, and other heavy equipment uses.

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Tips for Being More Sustainable With Your Construction Projects

When you run a construction company or work as a contractor, you’ve probably had your fair share of construction projects where the client wants to use greener practices. Sustainability is at the forefront of everyone’s minds, and there are steps you can take to make your construction projects environmentally friendly. Read on to learn how you can be more sustainable with your construction.

Change Equipment

One way many businesses are transitioning to sustainability is through equipment. People and businesses are transitioning to electric-powered items instead of gas-powered and LED lights instead of conventional lighting. Small changes make significant differences, and those changes can also happen on your construction site. Using electric heaters instead of gas can significantly lower emissions, as can electric-powered tools. In addition to lowering emissions, electrical equipment is easily rechargeable and lasts much longer than its gas-powered counterparts. 

Think of Your Materials

One of the most significant ways you can be more sustainable in your construction is through your material selection. 

Construction sites are like many other businesses in today’s world, and there is a lot of waste. However, if you are thoughtful with your material selection and choose renewable products or ones from local vendors, your project will have few negative impacts on the environment.

Consider using stainless steel for your larger projects, as it supports sustainability and the circular economy. Steel is clean, durable, and one of the most recyclable materials you can use because it stays clean without the need for hazardous cleaning products.

Prefabricate Materials

Many construction businesses are transitioning from doing all their projects onsite to prefabricating pieces to bring in later. This practice reduces onsite waste and avoids potentially disruptive environmental factors. For example, if you’re working with sheet metal, the cold and hot weather can change the metal’s shape, making it look much different than the final product. 

Prefabrication increases construction efficiency because you’ll experience fewer roadblocks and spend much less time creating waste at the job site.

Be more sustainable with your construction by following these tips and incorporating these techniques into your future construction projects. It will help your construction business leave a smaller footprint, and you’ll rest easy knowing you built environmentally friendly projects well.

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Three Questions You Should Ask Your Immigration Attorney

Remember these questions you should ask your immigration attorney during your first meeting if you want clarity and confidence when proceeding with your case.

Immigration attorneys assist in cases dealing with issues such as naturalization and fiancé(e) visas. These cases deal with sensitive issues and require careful planning and knowledge. But how do you differentiate a suitable lawyer from the rest? These are the top three questions you should ask your immigration attorneyduring your first meeting. 

How Much Experience Do You Have? 

This is a standard question you should ask when partnering with any professional, and an immigration attorney is no exception. Specifically, relevant experience comes down to how many years the professional has worked with these types of cases as well as how many cases they have under their belt. That way, you can find an experienced expert who knows the titular topic front to back.

Another clear sign of expert experience in immigration law is being a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA); this membership showcases a dedication to professionalism and ethical practices. When you’re browsing online for an immigration law firm, you’ll find many details on its website, and one of them should be its AILA membership. 

How Long Will the Process Take? 

When you’re discussing the steps of any immigration case, they can understandably seem daunting to some newcomers. An experienced immigration law firm is helpful for various reasons, and one of the reasons is the clarity it can provide. Knowing how long your case will take is an easy way to set your expectations accurately. 

For instance, when you’re researching how long obtaining a K1 visa takes, you may find a large swathe of time frames. The reason for this is that details such as correctly filing the necessary forms will affect how long the case takes. So after your attorney looks over your case details, ask how long they think the process will take so that you can plan accordingly. 

Will You Help Me Win My Case? 

Another effective way to set proper expectations is knowing how your case objectively looks to a professional. Therefore, one of the top questions you should ask your immigration attorney is: What are my chances of success in this case? Of course, lawyers are not fortune-tellers. But a reliable immigration lawyer should know your chances of success after you provide them with the proper information regarding your case.

Beyond providing clarity on the topic, asking this question also offers you a way to test your lawyer’s knowledge and integrity. Whether they see success or failure in your case, the attorney should provide you with a reason why.

Thanks to these questions, you can gain a clearer picture of how your case will proceed and whether you’re talking to the right professional. 

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Flash Wash Recommends Regular Car Cleaning During Harsh Winter Months

Vancouver, WA — Our current weather is quite nice, but we all know the rain and harsher weather is coming. The Pacific Northwest can have some brutal winters, so keeping your vehicle clean in winter makes your car last longer. Washing your car in winter helps prevent rust, keeps ice off your windshield, and protects you vehicle’s paint.

Never underestimate the importance keeping your car clean by regularly washing it throughout winter. Don’t just view the three-month season as hiatus from car washing. While it might be easy to dismiss the new extra icy coat the winter adds to your vehicle as just frozen water; it pays to get it off your car as soon as soon as it accumulates. 

Here are four main reasons you should regularly wash your car throughout winter:

  1. Rust. Winter’s elements can cause rust on a car, and once rust starts it’s hard to stop. Rust can show up anywhere – under the paint, under the car where there is bare metal, and in areas of your car you didn’t know existed. Rust is just one of several preventable issues.
  2. Paint Protection. Keeping your car clean and waxed during the winter adds an extra layer of protection to the body paint. Ceramics are key to that protection.
  3. Minimizes need for part replacement. Some barely noticeable car parts like the windshield and back window wipers as well as the mud guard plates may be easy to forget but still play a crucial role in your vehicle’s overall efficiency. During car winterization, most professional mechanics, on the assumption you won’t be cleaning your car often, advise you to buy several pairs of wipers.
  4. Protect your investment. Regular car wash over winter helps protect your investment. It not only assists maintain its originality but also helps improve its resale value.

Car wash memberships help protect your car, especially during those harsh winter months. How many times have you finished washing your car only to find out that it is about to rain? Seriously! It is amazing how the sky can be clear and sunny one minute and sloppy the next. It almost seems like getting your car washed is a sure way to jinx the weather. But after spending money to get your car cleaned, the last thing you want to do is drive right back to the car wash to do it all over again.

That is where a car wash membership pays off. A car wash membership is a subscription service where you pay a set fee each month for a certain number of washes. Like a newspaper or Netflix subscription, you do not need to pay every time you use the service. That way, you can get your car cleaned whenever you need to. Whenever it is dirty. As often as you want.

Flash Wash, located in Vancouver at 164th and Cascade Park Drive, offers such a service. They offer three washes, which can be purchased as monthly memberships with unlimited visits and washes:

  1. Flash Wash ($29.99/month) is a premium wash with ceramics that add an extra coating on your vehicle along with a longer lasting shine and protection. The ceramics help bead off the rain.
  2. Bolt Wash ($23.99/month) comes with wax and clear coat protectant, which adds an extra protectant on your vehicle.
  3. Spark Wash ($14.99/month) is a basic service that cleans your vehicle without wax and wheel cleaning.

Flash Wash offers a special $5 memberships for the first month, which then goes into a recurring charge.

“It’s a really good deal,” said McCallum, operator of Flash Wash. “And we want the public to know that a part of our tunnel recycles some of our car wash water. Most of our tunnel runs off fresh water but some of it is recycled water. And we feel like we offer the best car wash in the area.”

McCallum also emphasizes the importance of the ceramics at Flash Wash. Citing concerns about chemical staining from naturally acidic contaminants in the environment, she said the ceramics help reduce those contaminants from bonding to a vehicle’s paint. And, she thinks this is even more important in winter.

“Ceramics are more durable, and they will produce a deeper gloss and shine than traditional wax,” McCallum added. “I also want people to know that Flash Wash is a great place to work, that we have a great team, and that Flash Wash wants to give back to the community. You can contact us via our website: https://flashwashcarwash.com/contact-us/ “

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BIA of Clark County: Local Builder Wins National Competition

Vancouver, WA – The Building Industry Association of Clark County (BIA) is excited to announce member Chuck Neibert of Affinity Homes LLC has won national recognition from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) as a top recruiter for the home building industry.

As part of a NAHB’s national membership recruitment effort, builders compete against other builders from associations across the country for an experience of a lifetime. Because the BIA has more than 500 members, we are recognized as a large association. As such, Chuck has won the grand prize in the large association category for recruiting the most members in the country.

As a thank you for Chuck’s hard work in building the power of the association through member recruitment, he will receive an all-inclusive trip to the Signature Kitchen Suite Experience and Design Center (an exclusive, 23,000-square-foot facility showcasing the intersection between technology and culinary passion) in Napa Valley, California, courtesy of the official NAHB membership sponsor, Signature Kitchen Suite.

2021 BIA Board President, Dave Myllymaki said, “Chuck has been instrumental in assisting our Membership Director in growing the membership of the BIA by attracting new members from Clark, Skamania, and Wahkiakum counties. We cannot thank him enough for the dozens of members he’s recruited to ensure that the construction community is aware of the many benefits offered by the BIA: cost-saving programs, business development tools, and advocacy at the local, state, and national levels of government.”

BIA
www.clarkcountyrelocations.com

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