How To Guide Feb-March 2020

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How do I find a good appliance store?

How do I choose a home repair professional?

How do I find a fitness center?


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How To Guide

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Spring


2020

How To Guide

3

AN EXPERT, BRANDON HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, GIVES YOU TIPS ON PROTECTING YOUR HOME (AND MORE) FROM WINTER’S FREEZE SERVICE HVAC SYSTEMS

It’s important to ensure that heating systems are working properly prior to the cold-weather season. It may only take hours for the interior of a home to reach dangerously low temperatures without adequate heat. Homeowners should schedule annual checkups of furnaces and hot water heaters. Inspect the heat exchanger for cracks, install a clean air filter and make sure all thermostats are working properly. HAVE FUEL READY

Homeowners who heat their homes with oil, wood or coal should make sure they have plenty of fuel on hand in advance of winter. Shortages can occur, and it may take some time for new fuel to arrive in the midst of a cold snap. As a precaution, homeowners can rely on portable space heaters to fill in the heating gaps during freezing temperatures. Exercise extreme caution with these devices, turning them off when leaving Freezing temperatures may be good for ice skating or building the room and remembering to avoid overloading outlets. snowmen, but sub-freezing temperatures can be dangerous for the average person and his or her home. PROTECT OUTSIDE Cold weather often leaves people scurrying to do whatever is nec- Drain birdbaths, clean out downspouts and remove water from essary to safeguard themselves from the big chill. But it’s important other items where water can freeze and cause damage. Inspect homeowners also protect their homes in cold weather. roofing prior to the snowy season, but stay off roofs during freezing weather. Remove snow shovels and other winter gear from storage and Plumbing and pipes may be vulnerable to cold weather. Frozen make sure the items are easily accessible during snowstorms. pipes may burst and cause substantial damage to a home, poten- Winter’s bite can be severe. Homeowners can protect themselves tially causing flooding and structural damage. and their properties when the freeze sets in. Homeowners should disconnect and drain garden hoses before winter arrives. Water to outdoor hose bibs should be turned off, though the valves on these outdoor faucets should be left open to drain. Also, outdoor faucets can be covered with insulating foam covers. The Red Cross says pipes that freeze most frequently include pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces. Close vents to the outside in areas like attics and basements to limit the amount of cold air that gets indoors. Think about insulating unheated areas, as well as using pipe sleeves, heat tape or wraps on exposed pipes. By opening kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors, homeowners can allow warm air from a home to reach pipes under the sink. During extreme freezes, keep cold water dripping from a sink to prevent pipes from freezing. PLUMBING


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Active days for your loved one. Peace of mind for you. Coleman can help:

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Coleman Adult Day offers adult day care service to seniors with Alzheimer’s and Dementia as well as older, developmentally disabled adults who are young at heart. Led by an experienced staff that includes licensed nurses, we provide engaging activities customized for your loved one. We get to know all of our clients and incorporate their personal needs into the daily activities that include music, art, recreation and even supervised local day trips in the community.

• Specialized care plans for every client • On-site therapies and medical specialists • Therapeutic diets • Fall risk assessments • Dementia support group Coleman Adult Day makes it possible for seniors to stay at home for as long as possible, while giving you the break you need.

oѴ;l-m 7 Ѵ| - ĺou] Coleman Adult Day Services | 6695 N. Chestnut St. | Ravenna, OH 44266 | 330-296-3214 | 7 Ѵ| - Š oѴ;l-m";u b1;vĺou]

Spring


2020

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AN EXPERT, COLEMAN PROFESSIONAL SERVICES, GIVES YOU TIPS ON FINDING OUT IF A LOVED ONE HAS DEMENTIA clutter, and streamline the process of getting to the bathroom, bedroom, and family room. WHAT IS ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE? Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills. Caused by dementia, it’s unlike dementia because there is no battery of tests to ensure someone has Alzheimer’s. ALZHEIMER’S TREATMENT OPTIONS For mild to moderate Alzheimer’s, cholinesterase inhibitors reduce symptoms and help control some behaviors. For moderate to severe cases, an N-methyl D-aspartate antagonist prescription allows the patient to continue to do daily tasks (i.e., going to bed, brushing teeth) without assistance. LIFESTYLE AND HOME REMEDIES FOR THOSE WITH THE DISEASE If you’ve recently been diagnosed with dementia or you want to try and keep it at bay, here are eleven tips that help with brain health: • Learn a new language • Play a musical instrument • Play board games • Work on crossword or Sudoku puzzles Have you ever been concerned that a loved one may have dementia or Al- • Adjust your diet zheimer’s? What signs should you look for and what should you do? • Exercise • Purchase a pet DETERMINING A DEMENTIA DIAGNOSIS • Get a massage Diagnosing dementia can be difficult, and there is no one test to do it. • Dance, paint, garden, cook However, if you notice your loved one is increasingly forgetful, misplacing • Encourage visitors to come by items, confused in familiar settings, or having drastic mood swings, these are • Keep keys, wallet, smartphone and other valuables in the same location usually signs, something neurological is going on with them. • Establish a calming nighttime routine Several physical, cognitive, neurological, and psychiatric evaluations must take place. Also, your physician may order the following tests: HOW CAN CAREGIVERS SUPPORT THEIR LOVED ONES • CT Usually, a caregiver spends the most time with the person with dementia or • MRI Alzheimer’s. Below are four tips to keep their stress levels in check: • PET Learn as much as you can about the disease • B-12 & thyroid labs Join local support groups Upon completion of this battery of tests, physicians can determine with a rela- Spend time with family and friends tively high degree of confidence whether or not the patient has dementia. Invest in respite care, such as what Coleman Adult Day Services offers Upon receiving a diagnosis, caregivers and their loved ones are faced with a million questions. How long until the disease progresses? Can I afford long-term HELP IS AVAILABLE care for my loved one? How can I anticipate their needs? Coleman Adult Day Services is the only medical model of daytime care in PorThese questions are why it’s important to find a trusted resource like Coleman tage County for adults with dementia and Alzheimer’s. It offers a free trial visit Adult Day. A weekday adult day care that specializes in caring for those with for those who think it is the type of services their loved one needs. Coleman’s Dementia & Alzheimer’s, Coleman Adult Day helps support both patients and medical model of care ensures that there is collaboration between your loved their loved ones. one’s doctor and Coleman’s staff. Visit Coleman Adult Day online at www. From advising you on home safety hazards to recommending activities to keep colemanadultday.org or call 330-296-3214 for more information or to arrange your loved one’s mind sharp, it’s critical to find an experienced care provider a visit. that can support you and your loved one through every step of the journey. DEMENTIA TREATMENT Cholinesterase inhibitors treat vascular, Parkinson’s disease, and Lewy body dementia cases. Prescription Memantine works for the regulation of glutamate activity. Occupational therapists work with patients to make their homes safer, reduce


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Spring


2020

How To Guide

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AN EXPERT, GARDENS OF WESTERN RESERVE, GIVES YOU TIPS ON HOW TO CHOOSE HOSPICE CARE It is always best to consult with a doctor regarding this decision. The hospice staff will meet with the patient’s physician to talk about the current symptoms, medical history and life expectancy. Then they will let you know which options are available to you. COMMUNICATION Pick a hospice service that helps you feel at ease. You are going to have to ask and answer some extremely difficult questions. Death is a tough subject to discuss. Clear, caring communication is absolutely essential. A quality hospice program will give you all the time and personal attention you need to ease your mind. Part of picking hospice involves having the right feeling. If the hospice staff is personable and makes you feel comfortable, that’s a good sign. End-of-life care is a delicate subject that none of us wants to face. But it is a fact of life, and making that time as comfortable as possible for a dying loved one is among the most compassionate decisions you’ll ever make. According to the Hospice Foundation of America, a third of all Americans choose hospice care when they are dying. But hospice isn’t only for the dying. Loved ones also benefit from hospice care, as workers will support them through some of the most difficult moments in life. You will find hospice workers in assisted living centers, nursing homes, hospitals and residential facilities. Patients may even receive care in their own homes or the homes of friends and family, While all hospice centers are regulated by the government, each facility has meaningful differences in personnel, policies and facilities. Here are some things to consider when selecting hospice care: LOCATION Hospice specializes in making the patient feel as comfortable as possible. Care can take place anywhere. Patients can even receive treatment in their own homes, where they are most comfortable. Some diseases may require more specialized care than others. The patient can also choose to stay in a facility that can give them easy, 24-hour access to nurses, medication, and medical equipment needed for their comfort.

REFERRALS Every patient who receives hospice treatment must be qualified by a physician. Usually, this means there is a life expectancy of six months or less. Since some physicians may hesitate to broach the subject of hospice care, you may need to bring it up yourself. Ask whether hospice care would be appropriate and which services might be most helpful to ease the end-of-life process. You can also approach a hospice facility directly to ask about their services. They will help you determine which care is most appropriate. Hospice care has been growing since the 1990s. Many people are realizing that it is possible to die with peace and dignity. Hospice can help the end-of-life experience a little easier for the patient and loved ones.


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AN EXPERT, ITALY PLUS TOURS, LLC, GIVES YOU TIPS ON CHOOSING A TOUR OPERATOR •You will enjoy the comforts of top quality hotel accommodations included on each tour •We provide English-speaking tour guides throughout the tour •All breakfast and several lunch/dinners are included during the tour •Wine tastings, cooking classes and other specialties can be provided •Tips & taxes are included YOU are NOT left guessing what to expect on your tour. We at Italy Plus Tours, pride ourselves on communication to our traveler so they know every step of the way what to expect. A lot of travel booking these days is done by travelers hunting around online, comparing prices and amenities and availability. That sort of research can be exhausting and confusing and lead to mistakes or bad deals. That’s why working with experienced tour operators can still ensure your travel plans are nailed down and you’ve gotten the best deal. Tour operators are professionals who help to ensure your trip will run smooth and worry free. They will plan every aspect of your trip, leaving it up to you only to relax. THE BENEFITS OF BOOKING WITH ITALY PLUS TOURS • We provide one of a kind tours to Italy and surrounding countries provided on our website at www.italyplustours.com • We offer optional tours, or custom tours to satisfy specific requirements of the traveler to create their own personal tour • You will be greeted at the airport, and travel on our Deluxe Coach Bus 55+ Passenger (ac + wifi) included throughout the tour

In addition, our Italy tour operator CDG Viaggi of Digiacomo Biagio S.A.S, and Italy Plus Tours go the extra mile to have some special “surprises” along the way to enhance your tour and make amazing memories. We feel this truly sets us apart from other tour operators. We stand behind our Mission Statement to offer “an affordable price for a luxury tour.” We challenge you to find an equally matched tour offering ALL that we offer at our price. Whether you are planning a relaxing vacation or adventurous escape, your time away can be an amazing experience. Italy Plus Tours will provide needed guidance and support every step of the way. They are sure to take care of the details so you can kick back and enjoy an experienced journey of a lifetime.


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Spring

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2020

How To Guide

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AN EXPERT, NATURALAWN OF AMERICA, GIVES YOU TIPS ON HOW TO CHOOSE A LAWN CARE SERVICE People who live near you will also be acquainted with the services provided by various professionals in your area. They can recommend a service based on what you need. METHOD OF PAYMENT There are a variety of ways to compensate your lawn care provider. Some companies will utilize a verbal agreement that can be canceled by either party at any time while others will require a yearly contract. Some will offer pre-payment in full or pay as they go. Understanding what will happen if there is an early cancellation or change in terms halfway through your contract is important. Many companies will invoice at the time of service. ANNUAL FEES OR PAY PER TREATMENT? Most lawn care providers will offer two methods of payment. The cost-effective option will vary depending on the size and needs of your lawn. For the majority of providers, an annual contract will save you money in the long run. But compare the prices between one-time treatments and long-term agreements to know for sure. Your lawn makes a statement about you and your home. But upkeep is challenging in today’s busy world. By the time the weekend comes around, taking on the hard work of lawn maintenance can lose its appeal quickly. But if you’re willing to trade a little money for summer leisure time, you could get expert help keeping your lawn in top condition. Here are a few things to keep in mind when enlisting the help of a professional lawn service: DECIDE WHAT YOU WANT What is it that you need? Fertilization and weed control. Simple grass cutting? Planting and flower bed care? Pest or insect control? Understanding the different duties that each company offers is key fertilize the grass. Sometimes a lawn care professional will offer quotes for mowing but will not have the option to maintain any shrubs or small trees. Make sure you know what you need and what you’ll be getting.

CREDENTIALS The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is here for consumer benefit. Luckily, you have the opportunity to check the record of any local business with your local BBB in order to assure yourself that your lawn will be treated with care. The best lawn care companies will have a clean record with the BBB. Are the companies licensed and do they have local affiliations with reputable launcher groups?

ARE THEY FLEXIBLE? Last on our list is flexibility. If an organization cannot make adjustments to their routine based on your needs, do they deserve your business? If you want to exterminate the bulk of your weeds, will the company skip the preemergent crabgrass herbicide and utilize post-emergent removal treatment? The journey to finding a reliable lawn care provider should not be hard. Thankfully, there are many extraordinary businesses right around the corner PHILOSOPHY AND METHODS Some programs are Eco-friendly and others are not, so if environmental is- if you shop carefully. sues are a central concern, find a company to keep your yard green with “green” practices and safer products. A good way of choosing a company is to see their methods of preparation. If they test your soil before recommending a fertilization plan, they’re serious and methodical about their work. Another deciding factor could be consultation fees. Requesting a free estimate of service costs will benefit you in the long run. Beware of organizations that offer annual pricing without measuring the size of your yard. RECOMMENDATIONS The people you interact with every day can help you make the best use of your money by recommending proficient lawn care services.


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How To Guide

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Spring

2020

How To Guide

s l o o h c s h g i h 13 orts

sp d e n nty o i u t o c c n e 20 sa s portag s acro d

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SPORT SUPPORTER SPONSORSHIPS

Your suppor t allows us to create a night like no other that supports all schools and all sports in the region. A table sponsorship also allows us to provide admission to honorees at no cost to them.

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Align your business with a positive event that has year-long marketing benefits, while bringing the community an event that lifts up students and area families.

CONTACT YOUR REPRESENTATIVE TODAY!

330-541-9400

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How To Guide

t u u r F e n Sp o o i t ns n e or t s

t A

Spring

2020

How To Guide

s l o o h c s h g i h 13 orts

sp d e n nty o i u t o c c n e 20 sa s portag s acro d

an s t n ude nored t s + 125 s ho e h c coa

SPORT SUPPORTER SPONSORSHIPS

Your suppor t allows us to create a night like no other that supports all schools and all sports in the region. A table sponsorship also allows us to provide admission to honorees at no cost to them.

b le

ta n co

ct

yo ur

r u o y re e v p to r day to rese

ta

Align your business with a positive event that has year-long marketing benefits, while bringing the community an event that lifts up students and area families.

CONTACT YOUR REPRESENTATIVE TODAY!

330-541-9400

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How To Guide

Spring

What’s your struggle?

You’re not alone. Coleman can help.

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A brighter future begins with help from Coleman Professional Services. Our caring, skilled professionals provide behavioral health, employment and supportive services – regardless of your ability to pay.

• 24/7 Support – 1-877-796-3555

• Case Management

• Crisis Intervention

• Psychiatry

• Addiction Treatment

• Employment Services

• Peer Support

• Residential Services

• Counseling

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Fostering recovery, building independence and changing destinies.

oѴ;l-m";u b1;vĺou] Coleman Professional Services | 5982 Rhodes Rd. | Kent, OH 44240 & ƒƖƑƑ o ;uv mĺ | Ravenna, OH 44266


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AN EXPERT, COLEMAN PROFESSIONAL SERVICES, GIVES YOU TIPS ON WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT A MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS HAVE YOU TAKEN ANY STEPS TO SECURE THE THINGS YOU WOULD NEED? While some fear that asking about it may plant the idea, the fact is that if a person is contemplating ending their life, it is already on their mind. You will not put it there. If you get positive answers to any of the above questions, DO NOT LEAVE HIM/HER ALONE. Be sure they have a safety contact at all times. Do not use guilt or threats to prevent suicide. (from Mental Health First Aid) HOW CAN YOU PREPARE FOR A CRISIS? According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the leading way to avoid a crisis is to prepare in advance for one and share your plan with your loved one. A plan should have the following components. FIRST, COMPILE THE FOLLOWING: The names and numbers of family and friends that can help The names and numbers of the person’s healthcare providers and A listing of their medications Have it handy – in your purse, on the fridge, or in your phone. Second, remove any weapons and unprescribed medications from their home. WHAT SHOULD YOU DO WHEN A CRISIS STARTS? Try to de-escalate the situation by slowly moving toward the person, listening to them, talking calmly, and avoiding judgment. A few months ago, a relative of mine died by suicide. It was a shock to the entire family, who didn’t realize she was going through a crisis. They missed the signs. Had her family and Next, don’t try to handle the situation alone. Call Coleman Professional Services 2/47 crisis number at 330-296-3555 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or friends known, they could have urged her to get help. close family members and friends from the list above. Unfortunately, there are many cases similar to this. In the United States alone, suicide is the second leading cause of death for persons aged 15 – 34 and one of the top 10 causes of Know where you’re going for help. Coleman’s 24/7 location at 3922 Lovers Lane, Ravenna is always open. At Coleman, the person will be evaluated to determine what the next step is death for all age groups from age 10 and up. to address their situation. The goal is to interrupt the downward spiral of negative thinking This article will identify the what and how of a crisis and what to do when you or a loved and increase the stabilization of the individual. one experiences one. However, sometimes, there is no time to execute your strategy. If the person is in immediate What is a Mental Health Crisis? A crisis is any situation where a person’s actions and behaviors may lead them to hurt them- danger, call 9-1-1. Let the 911 operator know that you are with someone who is suicidal and selves or others. It can also be a situation where they are not caring for themselves or are ask for a CIT (Crisis Intervention Trained) responder, if available. Reach out their therapist, exhibiting unhealthy behavior. Individuals with a diagnosed mental illness are at higher risk doctor, or psychiatrist, if they have one, immediately after. Do not leave the individual alone compared to those without one. Please remember that a crisis is temporary – but if it isn’t after you place your calls. handled correctly, it can lead to life-altering events. CLOSING Remember the key to handling a mental health crisis is to have a plan well in advance to deal TRIGGERS THAT MIGHT LEAD TO THIS TYPE OF CRISIS INCLUDE: with one. For additional information on mental illness or crisis communications, please go to Conflicts with loved ones one or more of these websites: Exposure to trauma or violence or www.colemanservices.org Increased home, work, or school stressors www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org www.nami.org WHAT ARE THE SIGNS? An individual may exhibit a mental health crisis in one or more of the following ways: Let’s work toward crisis intervention plans, so fewer individuals have to go through what my Cannot complete their daily tasks extended family experienced. Talk or write about killing themselves or others Withdraw from social situations with friends and family Show impulsive or reckless behavior Exhibit a dramatic shift in mood An increase in substance abuse Unrealistic or excessive anxiety or guilt Giving away prized possessions If you are concerned that someone is suicidal, ask the following questions: Are you thinking of killing yourself? Do you have a plan?


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Spring

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EXPERTS, PORTAGE MARBLE & GRANITE AND NORTH HILL MARBLE & GRANITE, GIVES YOU TIPS FOR HOW TO CHOOSE A MONUMENT materials, carvings and decorations will factor into the longevity of the monument. Inquire about the durability of natural stones and the depth of the lettering. If the carvings are not deep enough, the letters will wear away quickly, making the headstone undecipherable. SERVICE Choose a company that has been in business for many years. They should have stellar customer service and an impeccable track record. Do not tolerate high-pressure sales tactics. After all, you are purchasing a headstone honoring the life of a loved one. Every customer should be treated with patience and respect. CUSTOMIZATION Many people are happy with a traditional headstone, but you have the option of including symbols, quotes and other elements. Look for a company offering designs and layouts that will reflect an individual’s personality and interests. You can honor religious beliefs, clubs, achievements or careers. It is a nice way to detail a person’s life achievements. If you’ve ever driven by an older cemetery you might be struck by the or- If you have something truly unique in mind, simply ask the salesperson. nate design, beauty and quality of the monuments that celebrate the lives Most companies will cater to your request or refer you to someone who can of the deceased. Quality monuments are designed to last and signal the help you. deceased’s unique contributions to their own life and that of others. Today, options for unique monuments to honor any personality are near OTHER SERVICES endless. To find the perfect monument for your loved one, you first need to Monument companies also offer a variety of other services, such as decoratpick an excellent monument maker. ing landscapes or memorials for various sites. They might also help you repair a headstone. SELECTION The best monument companies have a wide selection of stones and styles. Most of them display headstones onsite so you can view the products firsthand. It is much easier to see them in person than trying to make a choice through a catalog. With today’s technology, they will also have virtual design capabilities so families can view their creation on a screen. Most headstones consist of granite because of its beauty and durability. This stone comes in different colors and textures. Each piece of granite is unique. Monument companies should educate you on the quality of various granites, so you know what quality you are selecting. Be sure the monument company you select has a written, perpetual warranty on high quality granites that extend beyond the retirement of the current owner. You also have a choice of finishes. There are different polishing, sandblasting and carving styles. Some companies will show you computer simulations while others will have examples on display. Even when your budget is tight, look at headstones in a variety of price points. It will help you understand what your money will buy. It will also help you compare the differences. KNOWLEDGE High-quality monument companies employ people with extensive knowledge about products and techniques. It is essential you choose a headstone that will withstand the elements. The


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2020

How To Guide

19

AN EXPERT, REDMON FUNERAL HOME, GIVES YOU TIPS FOR WRITING AN OBITUARY mation, so readers likely won’t expect it. Those who are comfortable including such information in the obituary may find it helps them avoid having to answer numerous inquiries about the loved one’s demise at the ensuing visitation and funeral services. INCLUDE SOME BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION Obituaries are typically more than simple announcements of death. Some simple biological information can shed light on who the deceased was and his or her personal and professional accomplishments. Avoid getting too detailed, as newspapers may not accept obituaries that are very lengthy. But biographical information like full name, place of birth, family (i.e., spouse, children, grandchildren, etc.), military service, place of employment, charity work, and hobbies can give readers an accurate idea of the life your loved one lived. Coping with the death of a loved one is never easy. Even those comforted by the acknowledgment that a recently deceased friend or family member lived a full life may still struggle with the sense of loss that comes with the passing of a loved one. Upon the passing of a loved one, an individual is often tasked with writing an obituary. Some people may find writing an obituary is cathartic, providing an opportunity to tell a loved one’s life story and indicate how unique the deceased was. Because writing an obituary is not something people are asked to do every day, it’s understandable if many men and women don’t know where to begin. Obituaries do not necessarily have to follow a formula, but the following tips can help people compose an obituary that conveys who their deceased loved one was and how much this person meant to friends and family. CONTACT YOUR FUNERAL HOME Some newspapers may have obituary guidelines that govern things like writing style and obituary length. Before writing an obituary, contact your funeral director to determine if they have any such rules in place. DO NOT FEEL OBLIGED TO INCLUDE CAUSE OF DEATH While acquaintances who first learn of a person’s death via an obituary may be curious about cause of death, loved ones of the deceased do not have to include such information if they are uncomfortable doing so. Many obituaries never include such infor-

INCLUDE DONATION INFORMATION Well-wishers who read the obituary may want to send flowers or make donations to express their condolences. Include the family preference regarding flowers or donations in the obituary. When requesting donations be made to the deceased’s favorite charity, include the charity’s full name and contact information or a website in the obituary. INCLUDE VISITATION AND FUNERAL INFORMATION Be sure to include the day, location and visitation hours for viewings. If the funeral will be public, include the day and time of the funeral as well. Have the obituary ready one to two days before the services are scheduled. Publishing the obituary a couple of days in advance of visitation hours gives loved ones of the deceased time to arrange to visit and pay their respects.


20

How To Guide

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2020

How To Guide

21

AN EXPERT, WCCV FLOORING DESIGN CENTER, GIVES YOU TIPS ON HOW TO CHOOSE A FLOORING DEALER When looking for a flooring dealer, look on the internet or your local phone book. On the internet, you can find review sites to see how local flooring dealers compare. You can also check advertisements in your local newspaper to find specials and deals. Keep in mind, though, the internet can be misleading when it comes to finding a qualified floor dealer. Just because it is one of the top search engine results doesn’t mean that the company is reliable. Instead, look on consumer review sites. Then check with the Better Business Bureau to see if the company has had any complaints lodged against it. If so, look to see how they were resolved. You might also check with the Chamber of Commerce. After making a list of potential dealers you are considering, give Choosing new or replacement flooring will immediate change the each of them a call. Inquire about the background of the company look, feel and value of your home. and how long they’ve been in business. You may ask for referrals It’s an important decision and there are plenty of great options, from previous customers for references. including carpet, hardwood, bamboo, laminate, stone and tile. You will need guidance on which brands and types are durable as well as what material best fits your needs and lifestyle. This is where a good dealer can help you determine which flooring is best for you.

Find out about the installation services they use and the dealer’s reliability. Do they use in-company groups or outside contractors? Also, find out about prices and warranty coverage. If you visit their offices, they might even show you a scrapbook of prior work.

Here are some things to consider as you shop for flooring. When picking the best flooring and respective dealer, try not to be overly frugal. You must think about longevity. Your budget may be tight and you might be concerned about pricing, but you must get the best value possible.

Experience should play a role in which company you ultimately select. Quality of materials, comparable or lower prices and good references will all make a big difference in finding the right flooring dealer.

What if something happens in 10 years and you have no warranty to repair or replace the damage? Or if the installers make a mistake and leave your flooring permanently damaged? So be sure to look at additional support and services. Find a dealer who has a great reputation and long track record of excellent customer service. Spending extra money is worth purchasing a product from a flooring dealer you can trust. You aren’t just buying flooring. You are also creating a relationship.


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How To Guide

Spring


2020

How To Guide

23

AN EXPERT, YARDMAN’S HOME SERVICES INC., GIVES YOU TIPS ON HOW TO CHOOSE DECKING MATERIALS NATURALLY RESISTANT Some types of lumber, including cedar and redwood, are naturally resistant to rot. While considerably more expensive than pine, they also offer a different character and can last longer because of the weather and insect resistance they inherited from Mother Nature. The biggest advantage to hardwoods and long-lasting lumber materials is the look and lifespan. A rustic cabin with cedar-plank or redwood decking can seem like the perfect match for the natural beauty that surrounds it. In some areas, pine simply looks out of place. Sometimes the material choices can be influenced by the species of trees that grow indigenously or by local styles and trends.

Few home-improvement projects can add more opportunities for both solitary peacefulness and family interaction than adding a deck to your home. It’s a multi-functional outdoor space than can at once provide a lifetime of memories and add value to your home. So choosing the right quality materials to construct your deck becomes of paramount importance. Here are some things to consider when choosing decking materials. PRESSURE-TREATED PINE Pressure-treated pine is the most popular decking choice for a simple reason: it’s typically the least expensive. Pine trees are very common and grow quickly, so pressure-treated pine lumber for the outdoors can make a great choice for many cost-conscious homeowners. Its commonality is a strength as well as a downside. Because it’s such a popular choice, there are lots of options easily available at most lumber yards and home improvement stores, including a variety of lengths and thicknesses for the decking and coordinating rails, posts and trim pieces. It’s a material that’s easy to find and readily available. That popularity, though, makes pressure-treated decks blend in with the crowd. Homeowners who want something more eye-catching, unusual or perhaps upscale looking may want to consider other options on the market. Pressure-treated lumber is designed to offer some resistance to weather and insects, but it must be sanded, stained and sealed to get the longest lifespan. With proper care, it can last for decades, but soft pine can be susceptible to rot when not carefully maintained through the years.

NEW MATERIALS Increasingly, homeowners have more modern options to build their deck with man-made materials that offer longevity and durability at an affordable cost. One of these options, composite decking, includes a range of products that are designed to offer less maintenance than wood, which can make a big difference to their cost over time. They’re often made from recycled wood particles and some type of plastic material that binds the wood together. Natural wood, especially pressure-treated pine, must be maintained regularly to prevent decay. It needs to be sanded, stained and sealed regularly to keep it from rotting. In contrast, composite decking is designed to eliminate, or at least minimize, this kind of upkeep. With UV protection and usually no need for sanding and staining, the best products will hold their color and shape fairly consistently over time. Synthetic lumber is another option. Made from vinyl, polystyrene or PVC, this material is made entirely of synthetic chemicals designed to minimize maintenance. While the cost of synthetic materials can be more expensive than pine up front, the numbers make more sense the longer you own it. The lifetime cost of maintaining the deck should be part of your decision on materials.

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How To Guide

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Spring


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