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FUNERAL PLAN

It may be a gift to those you love

It was Ben Franklin who said nothing is certain but death and taxes. This article does not deal with taxes, but rather the other certainty in life.

Everyone dies, so a discussion of funeral planning is never irrelevant. When someone we love dies, there are varying stages of anger, confusion and numbness. The funeral is one of the most significant means we have of dealing with grief.

The funeral ritual helps us focus our emotions and brings a sense of meaning to death. It confirms the reality of death and provides a catalyst for mourners to talk about the deceased. Experts tell us being able to talk about the life of a deceased loved one is one of the first steps toward accepting death.

Prearranging your funeral Prearranging your funeral is not much different than any other planning you have carried out during your lifetime. You buy insurance in case of fire, flood, theft or death. These coverages are purchased as an act of love and responsibility for those you love in case an unfortunate incident occurs.

A pre-planned funeral accomplishes the same goals. A preplanned funeral can prevent your family members from having to make a number of significant decisions at a time when they are confused and upset. They will have enough on their minds dealing with grief without having to make several important decisions in a very short period of time.

Experts tell us that there are an average of 50 decisions to be made when arranging a funeral.

Adding to the need for preplanning is the fact that our lifestyle is more complex in today’s world. Family members often live in different states, complicating rapid decision making. Further complications stem from frustrations that occur when dealing with government agencies in different states. A solid preplanning session can help prevent these complica-

tions which can loom very large during a time of pain and sorrow.

How to plan A call to a funeral director or a pre-arrangement specialist probably would be a good beginning in making sure you have covered all your bases in your planning. He or she can lead you through a process to ensure you don’t forget vital information in your plan. Some funeral directors and prearrangement specialists offer free booklets that provide a “punch list” of topics to think through and record your wishes.

Topics in these guides include funeral details ranging from visitation to the memorial service and alternatives from burial, cremation or entombment. These are obvious decisions, but other important topics include categories that will provide a helping hand to your family.

Additional topics include organizations to be notified with phone numbers, persons to be notified, medical history, estate information, banking information, real estate holdings and insurance policies. Many include obituary information outlines, personal property inventories and special instruction and information pages. There may also be information regarding the importance of your will and how to go about ensuring it is accurate and updated.

Prefunding your funeral Prefunding your funeral also is an important consideration. Your funeral director or prearrangement specialist can show you options which will waive your family from possible financial burden later. You may take out a life insurance policy which would cover funeral expenses, or invest in a funeral trust account or final expense insurance policy. In most cases, funds invested today would be enough to cover the total cost of the funeral since interest earned by the funds will offset the effect of inflation.

Government regulations safeguard your investment so funds will always be available for use. Another important part in your plan is to make sure your loved ones know where your recorded wishes can be found. Millions of dollars in government and insurance death benefits go unclaimed because family members do not know where to find information they need at the time of death. Some considerations that also need to remain in the forefront of the preplanning agenda: • Social Security: When a loved one dies, dependents and survivors may be eligible for certain benefits such as death payments, survivor’s benefits and Medicare. Qualifications depend on several factors such as age, marital status, number of dependent and whether employment was under Social Security. Your Social Security account should be verified periodically to ensure contributions are posted. All benefits must be applied for since payments are not automatic.

• Veterans Benefits: Honorably discharged veterans are entitled to benefits that may affect decisions about funeral arrangements. For example, veterans may qualify for a cemetery plot and burial allowances, a headstone and burial flag, as well as pension for survivors.

• Medicaid: Having a properly structured prepaid funeral is a very important reason why preplanning a funeral is imperative. If an individual has placed their funds into a prepaid funeral plans, after they have itemized a funeral pre-arrangement, the money would most likely be protected 100% from paying for any nursing home costs. In most cases they can also pay for burial space items for their immediate family members. Each persons situations is unique and laws change, however, most funeral directors and pre-arrangement specialists work closely with Elder Law Attorneys who keep them updated on current Medical Assistance laws.

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CABINETS

The biggest myth about custom-built cabinets and cabinetry is, well, who can afford them?

Though pricing can go from affordable to astronomical, anyone looking for custom- built cabinets can get what they want without busting the bank. Kitchen cabinets, living room bookcases, a bath vanity: whatever the use, cabinets should give a lifetime of enjoyment.

Store cabinets, which usually come unassembled and not installed, may not always be the best value.

They may not fit right or operate properly.

Custom-built cabinets can match the right cabinets to your lifestyle and budget. Custom-built cabinets let you add your personal touch. The custom cabinetry you select is sure to be a highlight in your home.

Unfortunately, they may be highlighted even more if constructed poorly. Finding the right builder and installer is very important when ordering custom kitchen cabinets.

The key to cabinets that will provide years of proper operation is careful design. Professional design is critical in the installation and use of cabinets, whether it's a customdesigned bar or a set of kitchen cabinets. Both demand a trained designer. Work with your cabinet specialist to make sure that you are creating the proper storage space for your

family’s needs.

You also want to make sure that your new cabinetry compliments the look and feel that is already in your home. There are many organizational features such as spice drawers, rollout shelves, wine racks, matching appliance panels, countertop appliance garage, that will increase the efficiency and the aesthetics of your room. A variety of wood species and laminates are generally used with custom cabinetry offering a selection of finishes.

Cabinet-specialists, when building a new kitchen or doing a complete remodel, offer a unique niche by having the ability to “customize” an existing kitchen.

Installation is one of the most crucial stages. Each piece should be carefully installed. If you've ever visited a kitchen where a drawer won't open because it was placed too close to an appliance handle, you can appreciate the importance of careful installation.

Ask the cabinet specialist for referrals from happy customers.

Don’t be afraid to ask if you can come see the room in their house that the cabinet specialist remodeled. For most people, custom cabinetry is a large expense and you want to make sure you have chosen the professional that is going to best suit your needs and wants.

• Custom-built cabinets let you add your personal touch.

• Cabinets should be about 4050% of your kitchen remodel budg-

et.

• Cabinet installation can take anywhere from two days to two weeks.

• Installation is one of the most crucial stages.

Try to think about these ideas • Do you have a preferred style or color?

• Are you preferential to wood,

steel, or another type of cabinet?

• If choosing kitchen cabinets, how much time will you spend in the kitchen? This will often dictate the amount of space you'll want to allocate to your custom kitchen cabinets.

• Determine what features you want.

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APPLIANCES Often the basic appliance unit is the same for several brands, but the price increases as the added features increase.

This is true on major appliances… to save money, don’t buy more features than you really need. Before you make a purchase, ask yourself if you really need the appliance. Some features on appliances save time and energy, and some add convenience but use more energy. Some are

bought because of the novelty they provide.

Sometimes an appliance doesn’t really save time or energy because the set up and clean up are time consuming.

Where the appliance will be stored and used Often storage creates a problem that outweighs benefits. Be sure where you’ll use it wired adequately and that there’s an outlet available. Don’t use extension cords unless it’s absolutely necessary. Cords reduce efficiency and may be dangerous.

Once you’ve decided you really need the appliance and that you have room for it… consider the original price tag plus any installation, operating and maintenance costs. High operating costs may make energy-efficient models worth the initial higher price.

For example: some new models of refrigerators and freezers are 50 percent more energy efficient than models 10 years old.

Check the yellow and black Energy Guide Levels on major appliances for energy information.

Check the cost of credit If you can anticipate buying an appliance, try to save a little each month so you can pay cash and avoid the cost of installment buying. You may even get a lower price if you can pay cash. Anticipating your purchase will also give you time to get the information you need to buy wisely.

If you know you’ll be buying a major appliance, start reading advertisements, consumer magazines and buying guides available at your local library. Ask friends

and relatives about the models they have and which features they use or don’t use.

For large appliances, in particular, service may be important.

Warranty or guarantee Take time to read the written guarantee… don’t just take the word of the salesperson. When you buy, remember to fill out and mail the warranty cards. Look for safety seals and seals of approval. The UL seal (Underwriters’ Laboratory) is probably the best known safety seal. Another seal, a blue star emblem, may be found on gas appliances. It means that the design and construction meet safety and performance standards of the American Gas Association Laboratories. Some magazines and other groups have seals of approval, too, but they vary in their worth to the consumer. Don’t assume that a seal assures quality.

For the most part, appliances on the market do what they are designed to do.

Your choice of brand and price will depend on personal preference and individual need rather than actual differences in function and quality. For more information on choosing appliances for your home, contact your local county extension office.

Points to remember • Determine what features you want • Determine storage and wiring considerations • Investigate operating costs • Read the written guarantee

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Start With Trust – Start with the BBB! For nearly a century, our mission at the Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota has been to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust. We are proud to support nearly 6,800 locally Accredited Businesses in our area who work with us to promote and foster business ethics through voluntary self-regulation, consumer and business education, and service excellence.

BBB RESOURCES ARE FREE FOR CONSUMERS • Advertising Review - We promote truthful advertising and selling practices by monitoring advertising and seeking appropriate corrections. • Business Reviews - Learn about a company’s performance in the marketplace before you do business with them. • Consumer News and Fraud Alerts - We provide timely news and tips, and issue alerts on the latest scams targeting consumers and businesses in our area. • Dispute Resolution - We’ll assist you in resolving a complaint against a company. • Estimates – Visit our website and use Request a Quote to receive estimates from multiple BBB Accredited Businesses in one simple step. !00!.ĆŤ 1/%*!//ĆŤ 1.! 1ĆŤ+"ĆŤ %**!/+0 ĆŤ * ĆŤ +.0$ĆŤ '+0 ĆŤÄ‘ĆŤ $+*!Ä?ĆŤÄ‡Ä†Ä ÄĄÄ‡ÄŠÄŠÄĄÄ Ä Ä Ä ĆŤĆŤÄ‘ĆŤ Ä‹+.#

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WISE PURCHASING DECISIONS The Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota is a non-profit organization which was founded right here in the Twin Cities back in 1912.

Our mission is to maintain a marketplace where buyers and sellers can trust each other.

In 2010, our BBB handled nearly 2.2 million inquiries from people; visiting our website, checking out company reports and contacting us with general questions. Oh yes, we also received more than 25,000 complaints. With nearly a century of experience helping businesses and customers resolve disputes, the Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota has unique insight into marketplace trends, consumer behavior, and common mistakes people make when looking for a service provider or shopping online.

Here are some helpful tips you can take to make a wise purchase and avoid potential problems and marketplace fraud: • Check with the BBB at bbb.org or 800-646-6222 before dealing with any company or charity you’re not familiar with.

• If you need to hire a contractor or repairman, check with BBB for a list of Accredited Businesses in your area. Always make sure the contractor is properly licensed by visiting www.doli.state.mn.us.

• Don’t yield to high-pressure or emotional sales tactics. Read all contracts thoroughly and seek outside advice if you don’t understand it.

• Be sure to comparison shop and get multiple estimates. You can use BBB’s “Request a Quote” to get free estimates from local Accredited Businesses with one email.

• If you’re hiring a service provider, ask for professional references.

• Don’t do business with someone who just shows up at your door. Many cities require door-to-door sales solicitators to have permits. Check with your city/town.

• Pay with a credit card. Under federal law, you can dispute the charge if you don’t receive your item

or service – a protection you don’t have when paying with a debit card or by check.

• Never pay the entire cost of a repair job upfront.

Try not to pay more than one third of the total estimate.

• When shopping online, shoppers should always look in the address box for the “s” in https:// and in the lower-right corner for the “lock” symbol before paying. Look for the BBB seal and other widely-recognized “trust marks” on retailer websites. Always remember to click on the seals to confirm that they are valid.

• Beware of websites or advertisements offering prices that seem too good to be true.

• Never give personal or financial information to an unknown caller or unsolicited email. When on the phone, you can always ask for their name and number to call them back. Delete and do not respond

to unsolicited emails.

• Keep documentation of your order. After completing an online order process, there may be a final confirmation page or you might receive confirmation by e-mail. The BBB recommends saving a copy of that as well as any e-mails for future reference and as a record of the purchase.

• Trust your instincts; if something doesn’t feel right, don’t make a purchase.

By following these simple steps, you’ll be a wiser consumer and limit your exposure to fraud and potential headaches.

Visit our website to sign up for our monthly consumer newsletter, or for more information, such as our business reviews, as well as consumer news, fraud alerts and helpful educational tips – all available free at bbb.org!

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ADHD TREATMENTS ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is one of the most common chronic behavioral disorders that appear in childhood. In those with ADHD, the prefrontal cortex of the brain has less blood flow and more difficulty using energy than in people without ADHD. This area of the brain inhibits impulses, initiates behavior, and controls working memory.

ADHD becomes apparent in some children during preschool and early school years. Essentially, it is difficult for these children to control their behavior or pay attention in class. They can have trouble sitting still, act without thinking and fail to finish tasks.

If untreated, the disorder can have long-term effects on a child’s ability to make friends or do well at school or work. Between 4% and 12% of children are thought to have ADHD—that equals approximately 2 million children in the U.S. In a classroom of 25 to 30 children, there will likely be at least one child with ADHD. Effective treatment depends on appropriate diagnosis of ADHD. A doctor must conduct a comprehensive medical evaluation of the child to establish a correct diagnosis of ADHD and to rule out other potential causes of the symptoms.

Research has shown that certain medications, along with therapies such as cognitive skills training, behavior modifications and classroom accommodations are the most beneficial treatments. There are also alternative therapies for ADHD such as biofeedback, acupuncture, and dietary changes. As a parent, how do you evaluate the treatments to determine which ones are right for your child?

First of all, ask your child’s doctor what he or she recommends. Your doctor can provide helpful insight into the medical options, cognitive and behavioral therapies that are working, and alternative treatments.

When researching non-medical treatments, talk to the treatment provider. Ask if clinical trials have been conducted on the approach and if so, can you see the research. Also, ask for references. A reputable treatment provider should be able to put you in touch with other families who have seen success with the program.

If your child is school aged, talk to your child’s

teacher or school psychologist. They work with many children who have ADHD and can offer valuable insight and suggestions for treatment. They can sometimes arrange for classroom accommodations such as seating at the front of the class or a quiet space for taking tests.

It’s also important that you do your own research on different treatments. Check out information on the Internet, talk to other parents, and read what doctors, teachers and parents are saying about treatment methods.

ADHD experts warn consumers about unproven and controversial treatments. Typically they advise consumers to be wary of any company boasting about miracle cures that work for everyone with ADHD, claims based on the results of just one study or studies that lack a control group, claims that the

product is harmless, “natural” remedy with few or no adverse effects and product ads that attack established, mainstream medical treatments.

Also, ADHD experts often list the following treatments as either unproven or disproved as effective in treating ADHD: sensory integration training, anti-motion sickness medication, optometric visual training and treatment for lead toxicity.

Through thorough research and discussions with medical and education experts, you can help your child develop an effective treatment plan that will help both you and your child deal with his or her ADHD.

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Train The Brain.

Love to Learn.

Leighton learned to succeed in school even with ADHD. It’s heartbreaking for any parent to watch their child struggle in school. For Leighton’s mom, Anne, it was downright scary. As a high school counselor, she knows all too well where it can lead. “From my experience, after years of frustration, many kids just disengage.

They don’t care. And so many turn to self-destructive behaviors,” she worried. “I don’t want that to happen to my son.”

Leighton was getting average grades in school with the help and understanding of his teachers, but still having a hard time focusing.

“He’d literally pull his hair out in frustration as he sat at the kitchen table feeling helpless and saying, ‘I hate school!’” Anne recalls.

When a colleague recommended LearningRx from personal experience, Anne was immediately intrigued. “She explained the scientific foundation, and it made so much sense. I could tutor him all day long, but unless he had the skills to learn, it wasn’t going to work.”

After six months of brain training at LearningRx, Leighton’s focus and confidence have soared. Plus, as schoolwork became easier for him his behavior issues faded. “Homework is no longer a battle either,” Anne reports. “He’ll sometimes even get started on bus ride home!”

What’s holding your child back?

Get to the root cause of your child’s struggles—their ability to focus, think and learn. Unlike tutoring that only re-teaches subject matter, our proven program strengthens the key parts of the brain that students need to learn and read better. The results are amazing.

“I’m just so happy now!”

-Leighton, age 9, Maple Grove, MN

Find out what’s holding your child back. Answers are just a phone call away!

Chanhassen (952) 949-6900 | Eagan (651) 686-1066 | Maple Grove (763) 746-5850 | Savage (952) 226-1115 www.LearningRx.com

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Expert Concrete Installation and Foundation Repair.

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