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Healthier Living | Child Safety | Eco Friendly Tips

Ultra Low Resistance Allergen Filters for Cold Air Return Filter Grilles in Walls or Ceilings

by Barbara 22. August 2010 06:01

Question about the SafeHome Duo and the Safe Home System Cold Air Return Purifier, 16X20X1

Q: "What is the difference between the two units as far as air flow and filtration is concerned? I manage a clinic where we have several very large cold air filter grills. Some physicians use aerosol products during medical treatments. We are also concerns about keeping the level of dust, spores, etc. to a minimum as the forced air HVAC system recirculates air. The filter grilles are hinged. Currently we are using 1 inch fiberglass disposable filters. Thank you for your input. Steve."

Answer: Both types of air filters will fit your 16 x 20 x 1 inch air return filter grille.

The Safe Home Duo, is a two layered polyester filter with the second, inner layer being impregnated with carbon and potassium permanganate.The Duo offers the same allergen, odor and chemical removal as the System, but in a single 1" filter. Duos utilize an inner steel frame that creates a filter with self sealing edges for great filtration and whisper quiet operation. SafeHome Duos are available as individual 3 month filters. You may need to replace more often depending upon your facility. To install, you fold the excess material around the filter's internal frame to slide it into the grille and then tuck the remainder in so you can close the cover over the filter slot. This excess material helps seal the edges where the filter fits into the equipment and keeps air from going around the filter through gaps. Air should enter the white side, which traps allergens, and exit through the dark side, which traps gases and odors.

The SafeHome System Annual filter package consists of four pre-filters for dust, pollen, spores, etc. and one pollution filter. The pollution filter absorbs gases and odors and fits into the air duct behind the return grille with filter slot. The System has 125 grams per square foot of activated carbon and FormadaSorb to remove the most common, hazardous pollutants. The replacement filters for the filter slot are electrostatic air purifier filters. These pre-filters should be changed at least every three months.

More frequent changes may be necessary due to a wide variety of circumstances that increase chemical, odors and particles like allergens or dust. Examples of chemical and particulate sources include the following:

  • Painting or renovations
  • High levels of outdoor pollution
  • Burning candles or using air deodorizers
  • Cleaning agents
  • Shedding Pets
  • High activity levels

Rated at MERV 7, these filters are pleated with thin metal wire in diamond shapes covering the pleats. MERV 7 is an industry standard rating that means the filter removes 50% to 70% of particles down to 3 microns in size. With use, removal increases to more than 98% effectiveness.

The manufacturer recommends that the Safe Home System be used in the largest air return grill for each air system. So, one choice is to use the Duo filters in all but the largest air return grill. When you calculate the difference in price, however, you may elect to keep all the grille filters the same especially if they are the same size in each exam or waiting room.

Both the SafeHome Duo and the SafeHome System come in many sizes.

Thank you for your question. Please contact us if you need more information.

Sincerely, Barbara

 

 

 

Boing Brand, the Best Safety Pad Edge Cushion, Pole or Wall Pads for Outdoors

by Barbara 10. August 2010 08:38

Question about the Wide Profile Black Edge Cushion by Cardinal Gates and the Boing Wide Profile Edge Padding.

Q: "Which of these edge paddings would work the best to protect an outdoor children's play area? There is a rough edged "paver" type wall that is porous. We want to coer it with a black padding to keep children from injuries. Also what is the best way to attach the padding? Thanks, Matt."

Answer: For indoor use, either brand of edge cushion padding will work. The Cardinal Gates padding sticks are the same as used for hearth guard. They come 9 to a box, each pad measuring 48 inches long and 2 3/8 inch x 2 3/8 inch on the lip.The Boing padding is 39.5" long x 2.25" x 2.25" x 1/2" thick.

For outdoor usage, we recommend using the Boing padding. It is made from what is called "skin urethane." That material is a special one-piece foam material which has both a shock absorbing "inner" foam and a  thick outer “skin” to protect from abrasion, UV rays, moisture and bacteria. It is designed for heavy duty use any where that there are sharp or dangerous edges, corners or surfaces. These uses include all types of recreational play areas, manufacturing and commercial, lLogistics and transportation facilities and equipment, military facilities, vehicles and equipment,medical and educational facilities, residential areas, etc.

Skin urethane Characteristics:

  • Safety. It has passed or surpassed a variety of safety requirements including Compression, Toxicity etc. Safety testing documentation available upon request. It has anti-bacterial properties and passes ASTM G21 testing for a variety of bacteria. Our Boing skin urethane products contains no PVC, lead or phthalates.
  • Not Fireproof. Does not currently contain fire and smoke retardants to meet Class A fire codes.
  • Durability: Durable relative to the amount and type of use. It will last many, many years if used in the manner it was designed. Longevity will be reduced by excessive or aggressive use.
  • Size tolerance: Can be up to a 5% variation in the size and density of the finished product. Skin urethane is produced in a mold - one piece at a time. The "baking" forcess that lasts 30-40 minutes can be affected by temperature and humidity which will vary by season and weather variations.
  • UV resistance:  Indoor or outdoor use.  All plastic products, even those that are UV treated, will eventually fade in the sun. The stronger the sun, the faster it fades. The darker the initial color, the stronger it fades. In addition the impact absorbing characteristics are reduced in very cold (below 32F) and very hot (over 100 F) weather. These factors will vary from region to region.
  • Impact absorption: impact absorbing characteristics are reduced in very cold (below 32F) and very hot (over 100 F) weather
  • Best UV resistance:4 primary colors (Red, Blue, Green, Yellow. Best not to expose to direct sunlight for extended periods.
  • Standard Adhesive Installing: For most installations, use “GE-Silicone I or II". The "II" version is supposed to be the improved version.
  • High Adhesion Installation: For those locations with a need for very high adhesions, use 3M VHB (Very High Bond tape)
  • Aluminum reinforced strips can be attached with screws (strips are pre-drilled & we provide the screws)
  • How much silicone do you need? The amount will vary with the type of surface to be protected and the degree of adhesion. As a rough estimate, you can generally attach the following numbers with a single 300ml tube:
    Wall Pad - 2 to 3; or
    Corner Strip - 6 to 8; or,
    Jumbo Corner Guard - 12 to 14; or,
    Post Pad - 1 to 2 sets
  • Silicone removal: scraping with a blade or craft knife ior use DAP's Silicone-Be-Gone. Oil-based solvents do require proper ventilation and gloves.Silicone can be removed by scraping with a blade or craft knife, but that can be laborious and isn't always practical.  Instead, try using a solvent that's made to remove silicone.There are a number of solvents on the market, but one of the best is Silicone-Be-Gone, a product made by DAP and developed specifically for removing silicone.  It can be used both for dissolving cured silicone and for cleaning up the area around freshly applied silicone.  The product takes several hours to work completely. It's also an oil-based solvent that has a noticeable odor, so use with proper ventilation.  It's also a good idea to wear gloves to minimize contact with your skin.  Krud Kutter, mineral spirits or rubbing alcohol also work and are safer but take more time and scraping.


Other questions about Boing Safety Pad Products:

  • Can you paint Skin Urethane products? We do not offer "painting" products or services.There are some "water-based" urethane paints to which you add color pigment. You can try, for example SC115 aliphatic polyurethane coating. May require SC-80 water based primer. There is also a solvent based SC89 flexible urethane coating but it requires excellent ventilation and proper protective mask. Due to the complexity of the product,variable sizes etc, we do not get involved in the sale of such products.See www.burmanfoam.com
  • How do you clean and maintain the safety padding?Under normal circumstances, little maintenance is required. Cleaning should be undertaken with normal household cleaning materials that are "non-abrasive". Limit your use of "solvent based" cleaners to the toughest cleaning jobs - follow manufacturers instructions. Unfortunately certain kinds of permanent markers like ballpoint pens and felt pens cannot be completely removed as the ink seeps into the surface layer.
  • Can Skin Urethane padding be used on the floor or under playground equipment?The current shapes we offer are not designed for flooring use. The Wall Guards can be placed on the floor - but are not rated for ASTM 1292 - Safety Surfacing for Flooring.

I hope this helps with your decision. Thanks for your question

Sincerely, Barbara

Protect with A & D Ointment or Moisturize Skin or Use with Tattooing

by Barbara 4. August 2010 07:51

Question about Case of 12 15 oz jars of A & D Ointment and Case of 144 5 gram foil packets of A & D Ointment

Q: "I recently got a tattoo and was surprised that the artist used A & D Ointment both to hold the ink on his "palette" and to stop minor bleeding during the process. I've never used A & D Ointment myself. What other uses does it have? Thanks. Roger"

Answer: A & D Ointment is a petroleum and lanolin-based ointment that contains both vitamin A and vitamin D.  Mothers use this for diaper rash, both as prevention and to soothe sore skin. It is a great moisturizer for hands and feet or any dry spots on your body.

For example, the bottoms of my feet get very dry in the winter. I used the thick white greasy moisturizer and also plain petroleum jelly. The results were not fast or very good.Then my mom told me how A & D ointment healed some dry, itchy spots she had. So now I cover my feet, primarily the soles and heels with A & D ointment after I get into bed. Then I put on "short" athletic socks and go to sleep. I try to remember to do this after my morning shower and then put on athletic shoes. (Lucky me, I don't have to dress up for work!).  Even if I forget a day or two, my feet are in much better condition than left untreated. You can do the same for dry, cracked hands: put on cotton gloves afterwards or a pair of socks after applying and go to sleep.

A & D has few ingredients besides the vitamins, the lanolin and the petroleum. It is highly unlikely to cause a skin irritation even among the most sensitive persons. Commonly, A & D is used for  treatment and prevention of diaper rash, to temporarily protect minor cuts, scrapes, and burns, to temporarily protect and help relieve chapped, chafed, or cracked skin and lips and to help protect from the drying effects of wind and cold weather. (Yes, you can save on those roll-on sticks for chapped lips with a tube of A & D ointment.

I was surprised with our first sales to tattoo artists. For tattoo artists, nursing homes, hospitals, etc, consider the Larger box of 864 individual foil packets of A & D Ointment.

Thanks for your question.

Sincerely, Barbara

 

Explain How an ID Guard Stamp Works to Protect My Identity on Junk Mail

by Barbara 2. August 2010 12:48

Question about the Kespon ID Guard Stamp PLUS

Q: "I believe in recycling. Shredding credit card offers, utility bills, etc.takes time and makes a mess. I saw the Kespon ID Guard on QVC and wonder how it works. Would it really protect me from identity theft. Please give me more information. How does it differ from, say, a return address stamp. Thanks, Susan."

Answer: As Seen on QVC, the ID Guard product uses a specially designed pattern along with a compounded pignment and oil based ink to mask letters and numbers effectively. You can stamp out personal information quietly and cleanly just like you would use a deposit stamp or a return address stamp. The difference is that you are covering an area 1 inch by 2.75 inches or 24 mm by 70 mm with a single push of the top of the stamp.

There are certain papers where this identity guard stamp is not as effective. For example the ink takes a long time to dry on photo paper that is glossy and will leave ink blots on paper that has a rough texture. The ink won't dry on plastic sheets or coated papers. This is a sturdy stamp as the body is made of ABS plastic and POM and both the inkpad and the tray are ABS.

Currently available are the Bright Pink ID Guard Stamp PLUS and the Fluorescent Green ID Guard Stamp Plus. We chose these colors as they are less likely to be confused with the more traditional stamps used to endorse checks and to stamp return addresses.

Users are happy not to deal with shredding and the shreds that seem to multiply like flies.

Thanks for your question. Sincerely, Barbara

Advantages of New V-120 XP3 Hornet Deer Repeller for Cars and Motorcycles Over Older Models

by Barbara 2. August 2010 08:44

Question about the New XP3 Hornet, Model V-120

Q: "I have an older model of the Hornet electronic deer repeller. I just got a new car. I'd like to know how this model differs so I know if I should buy a new unit or re-install the old one. Thanks. Jack."

Answer: Protection against car deer accidents is easier with the new model. The new Hornet V Models utilize the latest and most reliable electronic technology: you do not have to ground the new unit to the vehicle chassis. The V series Hornets come with a 4' pigtail and a 3.5mm plug that connects via a new weather tight connector to a new wiring harness. The easy mount bracket lets you mount the unit to the license plate bracket. The new automotive wiring harness is 10 feet long and comes complete with an inline fuse. You do not have to drill a hole in the firewall for the control switch as you did with the older version. The combined total length of the new 10' automotive wiring harness and the 4' pigtail wire connected to the V series is 14 feet which makes installation easier.  The most unique feature of the automotive V series Hornets is that the wiring harness does not carry power. The automotive V series switches the ground so a short circuit can never occur. This means you can wrap the wiring harness around and through the door jam without the possiblity of a short circuit. The V series motorcycle harness also has the new weather tight 3.5mm plug and a redesigned switch housing for easy installation.

XP3 Hornet V-120 Black or Chrome Deer Accident Avoidance Features:

  • Sound Pressure Level: 120dB (A.S.)
  • Operating Base Frequency: 4.8 ± 0.5 kHz
  • WV Ultrasonic Wave: 18,000 to 21,000 Hz
  • Wave Carrying Length: 1,600 Ft. ±
  • Effective Range: 700 Ft.
  • Operating Voltage Range: 8-16 VDC
  • Current Consumption: 10mA (max.) at 12 VDC
  • The chrome model is very popular with motorcycle owners and those with more expensive sporty cars.

    The Hornet has a 90 day limited warranty and a lifetime service policy by the manufacturer.

    Thank you for your question.

    Sincerely, Barbara

    Disposable Furnace Filters for Allergens, Formaldehyde and Other Chemicals.

    by Barbara 28. July 2010 07:00

    Question about the Safe Home Duo Air Purify Furnace Filter 16 x 20 x 1 In.

    Q:"My furnace in our second home has a one inch filter slot. We run the furnace only in the winter. We have older carpeting and pressed wood cabinets in the kitchen that we think are out-gassing formaldehyde. We've considered an Amaircare whole house system but the cost is high for the frequency of use of our second home. How would your furnace filter help with the formaldehyde problem? We have a 16 x 20 c 1 inch filter slot. Thanks. John."

    Answer: I recommend the Safe Home air purification furnace filter because it is so effective. This is a dual filter with a MERV rating of 8. MERV ratil layered polyester filter. There is a white pre-filter attached to a second polyester filter with embedded activated carbon and potassium permanganate. This air purifier filter has an internal steel frame. The polyester extends slightly beyond the metal frame so the filter seals very tightly in the slot. That way allergens, gasses, etc. cannot go around the filter edges.

    The white polyester outer layer first receives the air flow: it removes pollen, mold spores, and other common allergens. The second layer features FormaldaSorb™ (potassium permanganate) and activated carbon that traps odors and hazardous gasses, such as formaldehyde, ammonia, and others. These are emitted by cleaning chemicals, paint, particle board, and other household items. No other one inch furnace filters are as effective at removing dust mites, mold spores, pollen, odors, cleaning chemicals, ozone, paint fumes, and common gasses like formaldehyde which triggers asthma and allergies.

    The SafeHome Duo utilizes polyester layers as a prefilter and uses carbon and FormaldaSorb injected fibers for further filtration. This filter design uses mechanical filtration which offers the advantage of increased filtration efficiency over time because the particles themselves become part of the filter and there is no reliance on electrostatic charges which degrade over time. Mechanical filtration is particularly advantageous in humid areas or near kitchens because humidity and vapors significantly degrade pleated air filters’ electrostatic charge. By containing multiple densities of material, Duo filters are able to capture more particles while maintaining proper air resistance.

    Safe Home Duo Filter Features:

    • Dimensions: 16" x 20" x 1"
    • Captures up to 95% of common household allergens
    • Eliminates odors from pets, paint, cooking, and more
    • Uses high density carbon and advanced compounds
    • FormaldaSorb™ traps hazardous gasses
    • Highly effective and affordable

    Change the Duo at least every 3 months. Some conditions may require more frequent changes due to increased pollutants. Examples: furry pets, construction work, painting and smoking.

    There are other filter sizes from which to choose as well. These include 12 x 12 x 1, 12 x 24 x 1, 14 x 14 x 1, 14 x 24 x 1, 12 x 25 x 1, 14 x 30 x 1, 20 x 20 x 1, 20 x 25 x 1, 20 x 30 x 1, and 24 x 24 x 1. If you need a custom size, contact us. There is a minimum of 12 units required for custom sizes. We'll get a quote to you in response to your email.

    Thanks for your question.

    Sincerely,

    Barbara

    Fi-Shock Pet Deterrent Electric Fence or Koolatron CD-01 or CD-02 Cat and Dog Repeller?

    by Barbara 20. July 2010 05:58

    Question about the Koolatron Cat and Dog Repeller, Battery Powered and the Koolatron Cat and Dog Repeller with AC Adapter

    Q: "I have a home in an Atlantic Ocean coastal town near the beach. There is a constant stream of beach traffic including people with dogs. The dog owners pick up the droppings but of course not the urine which is killing my grass in several spots near the sidewalk. I tried the CD-01 without success. Do I have a bad unit?" The batteries last only about 12 days. Thanks Barry

    Answer: I discussed this with my Koolatron rep at length. Heavy traffic and salt spray combine, he feels, to make this unit ineffective. He suggested a fence to discourage dogs from squatting. He reminded me that dogs tend to urinate where other dogs do. Also pet owners may be quite unhappy if their dogs cannot walk on the other side of the street.

    My own recommendation, if you can do this, would be to install a low voltage above ground electric fence such as the Fi-Shock Economy Pet Deterrent Electric Fence Kit. Perhaps this could be discretely mounted in front of or just above behind a border type fence, preferably a UV stabilized PVC plastic fence.  The Koolatron Cat and Dog Repeller is better suited for backyard or side yard use or for a very deep front yard where it can be mounted to shoot the ultrasound, if activated, across the yard from the side.

    These are the reasons not to use the Koolatron unit in your front yard or back yard near the ocean:

    • The Koolatron CD-01 or CD-02 will activate every time that a person, animal or vehicle passes. That means the battery life will be short. Battery Life is determined by how many times the motion sensor picks up motion and triggers the ultrasound. Two batteries should last up to 2000 ultrasonic bursts, Of course, we humans won't hear the sound.
    • A salt spray environment will cause corrosion of screws and perhaps the inside as well over time.
    • The effective distance of the unit pointed toward the street is up to 85 ft in a 70 degree arc so folks across the street may also trip the alarm. Plus dogs across the street will be effected to their owners' chagrin.

    If you don't want to put a "flower bed" type PVC fence in place then use the above ground low voltage electric fence alone. This is a single wire strung between PVS fence poles. The Fi-Shock™ economy pet deterrent kit trains pets and or keeps unwanted critters away. This product can be used to break your pets' bad habits and keep them fenced in. The electric fence delivers a mild shock, deterring animals from the area. It plugs into a standard 110 volt outlet and delivers continuous output.

    The Fi-Shock electric fence kit includes the charger, 10-23” PVC fence poles, 1-22” ground rod, 100’ of aluminum wire, 50 cotter pins for fastening wire and 1 ground clamp. It is easy to install and has a 1 year limited warranty. Unless the dog/dogs jump over the fence, your yard will be protected from urine damage.

    Thank you for your question.

    Sincerely,

    Barbara

    Using a HeartSine AED Automated External Defibrillator for Cardiac Arrest

    by Barbara 18. July 2010 04:59

    Question about the HeartSine AED units

    Q: "I belong to a local private golf club. There's been a lot of talk about buying an AED but no action. Many of our members are senior citizens who are more prone to heart issues due to age, weight, health, etc. How complicated are these units to use? Thanks. Phil."

    Answer: The Heartsine units are entirely automatic. The Samaritan PAD (Public Access Defibrillator) system senses when the electrode pads are applied to the patient. The it automatically analyzes heart rhythm, advises whether or not therapy should be applied, and delivers carefully defined electrical shock designed to return the heart to a normal rhythm.

    The standard Samaritan PAD pack comes with 1 Adult Pad Pak for use on those 8 years of age or older.

    Samaritan PAD Features:

    • Visual prompts: Attach Pads, Stand Clear, Perform CPR, Shock Now, Self tests Pass -
    • Ready State Indicators: Low battery voice prompt, (at least 10 discharges remaining), audible prompt (alerts user of electrode disconnect), service icon stops flashing if self-tests fail, no battery, or when service required
    • Voice/icon prompts: Extensive voice and icon prompts guide the user through the operation sequence
    • Waveform: SCOPE (self-compensating output pulse envelope) Biphasic waveform. Optimized biphasic waveform compensates energy, slope and envelope for patient impedance
    • PAD Paks have 3.5 year shelf life
    • Warranty: 7 years by manufacturer

    Along with the unit, you do need a simple AED wall holder or a cabinet holder with alarm module if you are concerned about theft. Definitely, you need AED signs.

    It is recommended that there be at least one AED unit per floor of a building. For larger buildings, you need more. Usually there is one in every restaurant area, bar, golf shop, etc. These are not inexpensive. However, insurance liability is less with these on premises and the question is how much is a life worth?

    The Samaritan Training Pad System is recommended for AHA/ERC Guidelines for 2005 and 2000. It is pre-programmed in English, French, German, Spanish, and Italian. Security guards, managers of restaurants or golf clubs, etc. should be trained so there is familiarity with the units before action is required.

    Packages of 10 Electrodes or Single Pairs of Electrodes are available. Remember it to mark the unit to replace electrodes every two years. Childrens electrodes can be used only with the HeartSine Samaritan PAD 300P. Childrens electrodes are for children 1-8 years old and weighing under 55 lbs. (25 kg). Can only be used on units designate with Adult/Child label, Model 300P.

    A prescription is needed for each unit. We can arrange for the prescription through HeartSine physician consultants if needed.

    Thank you for your question.

    Sincerely, Barbara

    Quantum Eye II, 3 Color Biomimetric Sensor Passive Spot Carbon Monoxide Monitor

    by Barbara 17. July 2010 14:07

    Question about the Quantum Eye II passive carbon monoxide disposal spot monitor.

    Q: "Why would you recommend this carbon monoxide monitor over the single color spot monitors that are much less expensive? I can buy them almost anywhere. Thanks. John, the Private Pilot.

    Answer: The less expensive spot monitors show only safe (yellow) and dangerous (dark) carbon monoxide conditions. As a former private pilot, I had one of the single yellow spot monitors stuck to the instrument panel. I did not know there was any other kind. When the spot turned dark, you'd best have an airfield in sight. Carbon monoxide effects one's ability to think straight. I heard a story from an FBO (Fixed Base Operator) in Minnesota about an experienced pilot whose muffler was leaking CO into the cockpit and needed help from the FBO to find the field and land the plane. He was lucky he didn't pass out first!

    The Quantum Eye II has three colors, yellow for safe, green for caution or ventilate and dark blue for evacuate. Once out of the carbon monoxide, the sensor will regenerate. Sensor life is about 18 months. Obviously, this is not for the color blind pilot.

    We also sell these to forklift drivers in warehouses, truck drivers and home owners who want an extra safety device say on their refrigerator.

    A better choice are the 9Volt RV or Marine units. Unfortunately, at this time, Costar/Quantum is manufacturing only 12V units. The standard home 9Volt battery units are not made for high temperatures or high humidity. There are 12V RV units available. However, for aviation use, you need to get an FAA approval to mount permanently any non-aviation approved device in an airplane.

    Thanks for your question. Fly safely.

    Sincerely, Barbara

    Prevention Onocology Mouthwash Helps Control Thrush, Sore Gums and Mouth Ulcers

    by Barbara 17. July 2010 07:33

    Question about Prevention Onocology Mouthwash

    Q: "What are the benefits from using this onocology mouthwash? My sister is to start chemotherapy and radiation treatments for cancer and I'd like it to be as problem free as possible. Thanks. Mary.

    Answer: Prevention oncology mouth wash was formulated to treat sore, inflamed or ulcerated tissue during chemotherapy or radiation treatment. This is an alcohol free mouthwash with a glycerine/menthol formula, no dyes, and is made especially for onocology patients, sore gums, oral mouth ulcers, thrush and more. Made in the USA by Prevention Laboratories, the mouthwash contains 4 safe active ingredients.

    Prevention Oncology Mouth Rinse Ingredients:

    • zinc chloride – a powerful antimicrobial agent
    • sodium lauryl sulfate – a surfactant/detergent designed to help break up bacterial plaque.
    • sodium citrate – an astringent
    • anti-inflammatory hydrogen peroxide – an oxygenating agent helpful to the use of aerobic bacteria.

    On-line reviews are quite positive. Our sales reflect these positive reviews. We recommend that your sister check with her physician. If her physician agrees, then definitely buy some for her. Chemo and radiation for cancer extend over weeks so we recommend you purchase a case of twelve 16 oz. bottles. Perhaps you can split it with other patients being treated if you do not need all of it.

    Thanks you for your question and we wish your sister the best.

    Sincerely, Barbara