State Appointed

Curtis K. Richardson Appointed By Governor Bentley to the Alabama Small Business Commission

 

BIRMINGHAM – Curtis K. Richardson, President and CEO of C&J Electrical Services, LLC has been appointed by Governor Robert Bentley to the Alabama Small Business Commission.  The Commission held its first meeting in Montgomery on Tuesday, October 21^st with Governor Bentley calling the meeting to order. 

 

The Alabama Small Business Commission, created by executive order in September, serves as an advisory body in formulating policies, encouraging innovation, and discussing issues critical to the economic growth of small businesses.  The Commission promotes policies to assist new business start-ups and the expansion of existing businesses. Members of the Commission will be made up entirely of small business owners from across the state.

 

“Small businesses are the engines of job growth and an integral part of the framework that makes up the American economic system,” Governor Robert Bentley said. “We have assembled an impressive group of thirty Alabama small business owners from every corner of Alabama to discuss issues critical to the growth of small business and promote policies to assist new business start-ups and expansion of existing businesses. Each member brings a wealth of real world experience on what it takes to be a successful small business owner. The knowledge members will share with the rest of the commission is integral to helping support the growth of both new and existing small businesses.”

The Commission members will serve a two year term with the option of a two year reappointment.  For the purposes of this Commission, the definition of a small business will be 50 or fewer employees. During the meeting Tuesday, Governor Bentley announced the launch of Atlas Alabama, a new website for entrepreneurs and small business owners that will provide a consolidated access point for basic information on doing business in Alabama including details on licenses, taxes, loans, funding sources and insurance. In addition, the site features a comprehensive list of national and state resource partners that exist to assist small business owners.  The link to Atlas Alabama is http://www.atlasalabama.gov/

 

Atlas Alabama also represents the Alabama Small Business Commission and Advisory Committee, detailing its mission and listing its members. The website will provide a collaborative forum for the public to submit recommendations to the Commission.

 

Rosemary Elebash, State Director for the National Federation of Independent Business chairs the Commission and Advisory Committee. The Commission will present an annual report to the Governor at the end of each calendar year beginning December of 2015.

 

 

 

TESTIMONIALS

Metro D Construction
Lonny Moore, PM


'' Your company performed your portion of the work professionally and in a timely manner, We hope to have the opportunity to work with you again in the near future.''


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Southern Company
Will Taylor


'' He is a personal friend that have done personal work for me and did a great job.''


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t. howard + associates architects, inc.
Todd C. Howard, AIA NCARB LEED AP


'' Thank you for your commitment and hard work to make today a successful inspection. This was greatly appreciated. The State Inspector was pleased with the work that had been performed.....''


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Planned Parenthood
Staci Fox, CEO


'' From our Board, staff and most importantly the clients we serve, we are truly grateful. It was just a few weeks ago when we thought this project was beyond its reach. Thank you for your extended time and skills that will allow us to stay open.''


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Battle-Miller Construction
Jason, Superintendent


'' You guys are extremely prompt turning in needed Davis Beacon reports.''


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COMPETITIVE BIDDING

'' I've got N..... at 250k and you were next at 252k out of 7- ECs ''




'' Your bid was competitive, within a couple of 100s, but unfortunately was 4th....''




'' You were low on part of the work but if they accept all the good lternates, you were not low.''




'' You were low with us on the electrical by 6/7k...''


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'' If you looking for a great electrician, contact C&J Electrical.''
Roy Williams

'' C&J Electrical is the only electrical company I use.''
Terrence Robinson

'' I just like to say how impressed I was with C&J Electrical today. The professionalism at this company is priceless......''
Latonya Richardson 

"Thanks for the exceptional service! "

"Mike did an excellent job today. He was courteous and professional. It is much brighter and looks 100% better. Thanks for prompt service!"

Thomas Parchman 

"We were impressed by the professionalism, efficiency, and knowledge of C&J Electrical Services in helping us address major electrical problems in our first house.  We highly recommend them."

Sarah and Chris Lee

Electrical Contractor

Why is my power bill too much!!!

A question like that can't be answered, first, without 1) having a previous bill to go from and 2) know what kind of habits you have in regards to power usage. Sometimes as new homeowners, we don't know what's normal for the new home, especially if we just left something either smaller, gas utilities for some of the appliances, or from home with the parents. Your first winter power bill may knock you clean out your seat. Trust me, I seen it happen(laughing). 

Now, for us more seasoned homeowners, if you've noticed a significant increase in your power bill, then, we can get down to business and checkout some causes here.

At any rate, first, lets take out the power bill. If you notice there were more kwh usage than previous month, you now may be on to something. For instance, the season has changed or between the months of November to February are prime months. The usage of your heater has created a demand. Not only are you using more energy, but now, the cost of using the energy has increased. However, make sure to view the section on your power bill "Year Ago", and this would give you a ballpark of where you should be. If this column is blank, contact power company to retain data.

Another thing is to check the accuracy of your bill. Again, look at your bill. If you only used 100kwh the previous month and now it's 2000kwh the current month. Let us look at the actual reading: start of the month 15000kwh and the end of the month 15100. Clearly you see, there have been only a 100kwh used hear. Therefore, you need to bring this to the attention of your power company. You will be reimbursed.

Okay, time for the heavy duty check, the meter may be running continuously. Shut off all breakers, then go to meter to see if its still spinning or electronic indicators still changing. If this the case,
1) for duplex and apartments, your neighbor may be using your circuit  
2) for the single home unit, the meter may be damage, it's very unlikely, but possible. 

At any rate, get a license electrician over to confirm this and write up a statement to that effect. Then inform power company of damaged meter. While license electrician are on site, he can check for power leakage test, energy cost usage and audit as well.

Why do my Light Bulbs Keep Blowing

Light Engineering 

Light bulbs burning out too often and too soon is a common headache for homeowners. You just purchase some bulbs and you're feeling good about yourself, because finally, you're able to lighten those dark areas in your home and you gotten something accomplished. Then about a couple months later or sooner, you're now replacing them again. Now, your feeling ripped off and a little helpless because you don't know where to go from here. Rest assure, you've come to the right place for you information.

The most common thing to check is maximum wattage of fixture or lamp. 

We tend to want more light in dark areas by any means, therefore we install the notorious 100W bulb in the fixture. Not realizing, not only is this a fire hazard, but also shortening the life of the bulb. All fixtures has max ratings. You may find it either on the socket or globes. If undetermined, treat it as a 60W max rating. When the maximum rating is compromised due to the heat, you then have a breakdown of the insulation, the socket, and also the bulb itself. 

The next thing to check is the quality of the bulb. 

You don't have to be an expert in this area, you just need to know your lighting brands here. Not all bulbs are the same. There are the good, the bad, and the ugly. Buying quality actually matters in buying bulbs, believe it or not. Once you made sure you complied with the max rating and you are still blowing bulbs, you must check quality. I won't endorse here, but you may contact me for the big three brands or your local home improvement store. 

Vibration around the fixture. 

Something as simple as slamming a door can jeopardize a light bulb in a wall sconce near it. Kids playing in an upper room can also trigger the problem. Another thing some of us don't think about, is our ceiling fans. They are common as well. Some bulbs just aren't naturally subject to excessive vibration. The good thing is, there are bulbs design for such application. Just look a little closer next time at the store. There are rough service bulbs, sometimes called ceiling fan bulbs, garage door opener bulbs, and appliance bulbs. They have additional support for the filament in them.

Improper installation 

Sometime screwing the bulb in too tight can cause a problem. The brass tab on the base can be damage over a period of time. When screwed tightly the tab will spring back and forth when depressed slightly. 

A loose bulb or a buld that's cross- thread can pose a problem too. The lack of connection can cause overheating when equals to short life. 

Surges

There may be spikes from the power company at times. But a whole house surge protector can solve the bulb problem and a 130V rated bulb, as well. 

There may be other causes as well. Also, good practice is to install bulb with switch off. But remember, some things are just an "Act of God. " 

Questions to Ask an Electrician

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Certified 

If you need to consult a professional electrician or electrical contractor, ask the following questions to learn whether the individuals you're considering

are fully qualified and likely to do reliable work at a reasonable price.

Are you licensed in this municipality?

Not all states, counties or towns regulate or require licenses for electricians, but it's prudent to check first with your local building department.

Also ask if electrical work in your municipality must adhere to standards established by the National Electrical Code.

Will my electrical panel need replacement?

The current National Electrical Code recommends a minimum 100-amp incoming electrical service. If your service panel provides less,

it should be upgraded to this level or better to meet today's home requirements. Most new homes are wired with 200-amp service.

Will I have to apply for a permit?

If a permit is required, the electrician often will make the application for the homeowner.

 Some municipalities allow homeowners to do minor electrical repairs and installations if they first secure a permit and have the work inspected when complete.

Is my home's electrical system adequately grounded?

Ground-wiring protects a home and its occupants in case of an electrical fault, such as a short-circuit.

 But grounding also protects expensive electronic equipment like computers and many appliances. An electrician can quickly check and add grounding capacity if needed.

Are there any hidden costs for the work?

The electrician should do a thorough preliminary inspection and provide you with a firm,

accurate estimate of the work involved, along with the cost of fixtures or wiring that will be installed. If additional work is necessary,

it can be negotiated and billed separately.

Will you use all-copper wiring for any new installation?

Solid copper wiring is the material of choice for new homes or renovations. Although 14-gage wire is allowed for many circuits,

 it's smart to install heavier 12-gage wiring, which costs a little more but can handle more electrical current, making it safer and more energy-efficient.

If my service needs upgrading, will the entire house have to be rewired?

Unless you live in a very old home with antiquated wiring, you probably won't have to replace your existing electrical lines.

 However, if you require more electrical capacity in certain rooms, new wiring runs and additional outlets are likely to be needed.

Can you provide references from other homeowners?

Every tradesperson or electrician is only as good as their reputation. If you have never contracted with the electrician who answered your call,

 it's fair to ask for the names of other homeowners who have and to give them a call to check the contractor's work.

Life Safety- Carbon Monoxide

What is Carbon Monoxide (CO)?

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, extremely poisonous and explosive gas that causes 1,500 accidental deaths and more than 10,000 injuries each year. CO is slightly lighter than air and mixes throughout the atmosphere. It is a by-product of incomplete combustion, produced when fuels such as natural gas, propane, heating oil, kerosene, coal, charcoal, gasoline or wood are burned with insufficient air.
Effects of CO Poisoning

When a person breathes in carbon monoxide, it is absorbed by hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in the blood. "Carboxy hemoglobin" is then formed, replacing oxygen, preventing its release in the body and eventually causing suffocation.

• Mild Exposure: Flu-like symptoms including slight headache, nausea, vomiting and fatigue.
• Medium Exposure: Severe headache, drowsiness, confusion and a fast heart rate. Prolonged exposure to medium levels of CO can result in death.
• Extreme Exposure: Loss of consciousness, convulsions, heart and lung failure, possible brain damage and death.

While everyone is at risk for CO poisoning, unborn babies, infants and young children, senior citizens and people with heart and lung problems are at a higher risk due to their greater oxygen needs.
Possible Sources of CO

• Gas stoves
• Hot water heaters
• Fireplaces
• Lawnmowers
• Pilot lights
• Gas or oil furnaces
• Car exhaust fumes
• Wood-burning stoves
• Charcoal
• Gas space heaters
• Tobacco smoke

How to Prevent CO Poisoning

• Inspect flues and chimneys for cracks, corrosion, holes, debris or blockages.
• Buy fuel-powered heaters with automatic shut-off features.
• Fuel heaters in well-ventilated areas.
• Service heaters before the first use of winter season
• Open windows periodically to air out your house. Homes with energy-efficient insulation can trap CO-polluted air inside.
• Use a gas stove for cooking purposes only.
• Operate gas-burning appliances in a well-ventilated room.
• Never leave a car running in a garage.
• Use charcoal grills outdoors, never indoors.
• Install and maintain carbon monoxide detectors.