Salisbury Post/Davie Enterprise/Stanly News & Press
How To Choose | JULY 2020 • 1
HOW TO CHOOSE July 2020 Special Section of Salisbury Post Stanly News & Press Davie-County Enterprise
2 • How To Choose | JULY 2020
Salisbury Post/Davie Enterprise/Stanly News & Press
Making a good choice depends on experience and education. Having the information you need to make a decision could make all the difference! TABLE OF CONTENTS: What to look for in an ASSISTED LIVING CENTER.......... 3 How to choose a FUNERAL HOME....................................... 4
Over 60 years in the business, we understand kitchens & baths. We also understand that our customers want competitive price, quality products and friendly, professional customer service.
Walk-ins welcome. Mon.-Fri., 8:30-4:30
704-857-BATH
How to choose a HEARING AID............................................ 6
CORNER OF 29 NORTH & OLD BEATTY FORD RD., CHINA GROVE
How to choose a GARDEN CENTER..................................... 7
WWW.LANDISPLUMBING.COM
How to choose MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES................... 8 How to choose a PRINTER.....................................................10 How to choose an EYE DOCTOR.......................................... 12 How to choose a MEDICAL CLINIC.................................... 13 How to choose a FURNITURE STORE................................14 How to choose a JEWELER................................................... 16
We feel honored to continue the traditions of our family business in a community where Law Enforcement, Veterans, and its Citizens all take the time to assist, and honor funeral traditions as well. Your acts of kindness are never forgotten. With Reverence and Heartfelt Sympathy We Serve You
Coburn, Louisa, Jeff, Jane and Miller Hartsell
• Our Pricing Will Give You The Most Value • Financing with Interest Free Options Available • Excellence in Customer Service • Cremation with Confidence® Guarantee • On Site Crematory • Se Habla Espanol
522 N. 2nd St., Albemarle, NC 28001 • 704-983-1188 • www.hartsellfh.com Concord 704-786-1161 • Harrisburg 704-247-1722 • Midland 704-888-5571
THIS YEAR GIVE A GIFT THAT KEEPS DELIVERING Rowan’s A Subscription to e Favorite Magazin or Newspaper
Call 704-797-4213 www.salisburypost.com/subscriptions
How To Choose | JULY 2020 • 3
Salisbury Post/Davie Enterprise/Stanly News & Press
What to Look for in an
Assisted Living Center With Americans living longer than ever, the need for assisted living centers has also grown and the industry has responded. But because the type of care seniors require varies, finding the proper facility means locating a balance between appropriate levels of care, comfort and access. In the past, long-term care could only be handled by a nursing home. Living in a hospital setting for an extended time was not a pleasant environment. Times have changed dramatically. In addition to on-site medical care, many assisted living centers can appear more like upscale apartments, offering dining, travel, activities and personal freedoms. But not all assisted living centers are alike. The decision to place a relative into such an environment warrants close scrutiny and research.
your loved one’s belongings might fit into the area and where decorations will be placed. Does the atmosphere bring about a feeling of peace and tranquility? How are the rooms decorated? Is the facility within your budget? RECREATION AND ACTIVITIES Game and meeting areas can help the resident make new friends and keep them from feeling alone and lonely. Leaving the confines of their units is an important part of improving quality of life. Make sure the center offers activities and space to occupy your loved one’s time.
TAYLOR HOUSE FAMILY
Taylor House, the longest running assisted living facility in Stanly County, offers a home-like setting for residents. Nestled in a quiet neighborhood and surrounded by towering oaks and magnolia trees, we offer peace of mind to families by putting resident care first.
Quality facilities will have activities that match his or her hobbies. If your family member enjoys crafts, then look for a center with a designated craft area or classes for your loved one to enjoy. “We feel extremely honored
PERSONAL CARE Ask your loved one’s personal physician how much care is required to function safely. The doctor may even be able to guide you toward an appropriate facility. Be sure to seek advice on what qualifications and certifications you need to look for in the center’s staff. The center’s employees should be well-qualified to handle medical needs. If you monitor medical care, you can avoid paying for extensive services that your loved one may not need. Understanding the care the person requires will help you find a center that is a good fit. AMENITIES Accommodations at these centers can range from luxurious, detached cottages to cozy condominiums or smaller apartment-style rooms. As you visit the facilities, try to personalize each space. Imagine how
GARDENS AND LANDSCAPING The landscaping of an assisted living center can give you a good indication about the quality of the facility. A well-maintained lawn and garden is a positive sign. If the prospective resident enjoys spending time in nature, look for a facility that has park-like areas. Some centers have community-style gardens and walkways for residents.
that Stanly News and Press readers consider us the Best Retirement Community. We have always known what a special place we have at Taylor House. The residents, Betty Lambert & Sharon Little, CNA/Med Tech Resident Betty Lambert says the staff is “patient and caring”. Betty’s family love visiting her at Taylor House.
Lashica Johnson, Activity Director for 12 years & Ginger Harris, Administrator for 14 years
staff, and even our dog, Ginger, delight in calling Taylor House home.” –Ginger Harris, Administrator
Just being able to experience nature as it grows and changes with the seasons can be uplifting and soothing. An assisted living center with a manicured lawn and garden can make a huge difference in the quality of life for a loved one. Choosing an assisted living facility is about finding the right combination of medical services and amenities. With research and thought, you will find the perfect place to bring comfort and care to your loved one.
TAYLOR HOUSE Assisted Living Facility
319 PALMER STREET • ALBEMARLE, NC 704-982-4217 For more information, please visit us at: www.brh.org/facilities/taylor-house
4 • How To Choose | JULY 2020
How to Choose a
Salisbury Post/Davie Enterprise/Stanly News & Press
Funeral Home ways of handling a service. No matter what type of requirements you have, it is best to choose a funeral home that will cater to your specific needs in order to make this difficult situation a little less daunting.
CARING STAFF When visiting a potential funeral home, the funeral director can be a major deciding factor when you choose whether or not to use this particular company to handle the funeral of your loved one. A caring and professional funeral director and staff will take the time to explain all your options in an empathetic way so you can make a better choice when choosing a funeral home. If the director seems short or uninterested in your needs or makes you feel like you and your deceased loved one aren’t important, you won’t want to choose this facility to handle the funeral of your loved one. The circumstances are never easy and may be emotionally crippling. Facing the death of a loved one requires planning that may be difficult. But there are ways to make this difficult decision a little bit easier on you and your family.
home may have gone up. That’s why it is wise to shop around and compare the prices of the various funeral homes in your community.
While dealing with the death of a loved one is hard, choosing the right funeral home can help relieve you of some stress.
People often select a funeral home because it’s nearby or has been recommended by someone they trust. But by limiting the search to just one funeral home, you may risk paying more than necessary for the funeral and any additional goods or services offered.
ASK FOR RECOMMENDATIONS
If you want your loved one to receive the proper funeral he or she deserves, following the above listed tips should help you make the right choice.
Here are some tips to help make choosing the right funeral home less stressful.
Even if you have never had to choose a funeral home in the past, you may have a friend or two who has. Ask these friends if they would recommend the services provided at the funeral homes they have used. They may be able to share valuable information about the staff, facility and prices of a specific funeral home.
COMPARE PRICES If you have had to make funeral arrangements in the past, you may be tempted to just go with the funeral home you have experience with. While this may be a smart option for some people, it’s not always the right option. Depending on how long it’s been since you needed to make funeral arrangements for a loved one, the price of that particular funeral
ASK ABOUT PACKAGES Whether your deceased loved one had a specific list for their final wishes or you have to make these decisions for yourself, it is important that you ask a potential funeral home what types of packages they offer. You will find that not all funeral homes are created equal, and each offers their own different
How To Choose | JULY 2020 • 5
Salisbury Post/Davie Enterprise/Stanly News & Press
On what will be one of the worst days of their life, have you taken steps to help your loved ones?
913 West Main Street • P.O. Box 248 • Rockwell, NC 28138
(704) 279-7241
PowlesFuneralHome.com
ARE YOU CURIOUS ABOUT CREMATION? Owning our own crematory means you never have to worry about who’s handling your loved one. They’ll never leave our care. Call us, we’re experts in cremation.
650 Industrial Ave • Salisbury
8517 Davis Lake Pkwy D3 • Charlotte
(704) 636-1515
(980) 237-1731
CarolinaCremation.com
©adfinity®
©adfinity®
Don’t leave funeral arrangements for an emotional, difficult time. Call today.
6 • How To Choose | JULY 2020
How to Choose a
Hearing Aid
Accordi ng to the World Hea lth Organization, 466 million people worldwide suffer from hearing loss. It can be difficult to know who to trust when it comes to your hearing healthcare. The best place to start is by consulting with the expert- a reputable audiologist.
These “best practices” are the gold standard in hearing aid fitting, and although they may not mean much to the average consumer, it’s very important to work with an audiologist who abides by them. If your provider isn’t doing these things, they’re cutting corners and sacrificing your quality of care. Your EXPERT CARE AND MAINTENANCE hearing is important, and you deserve The most important factor in successful to be appropriately fit to your hearing hearing aid outcomes is choosing the prescription. right professional. A hearing aid, no matter how advanced, is only as good How do you structure your pricing? as how well it is programmed and fit. Some practices use “bundled” pricing, An audiologist is a clinical doctor and meaning that when you purchase is the expert in diagnosing and treating hearing aids you also purchase years hearing loss. Audiologists spend four of services with that practice that you years after undergraduate school may or may not end up using. Bundled studying everything hearing related- pricing is a major factor in the high from pediatrics and cochlear implants prices of hearing aids. If budget is a to aural rehabilitation and the vestibular factor, consider opting for a practice that (balance) system. offers “unbundled”, or itemized pricing. Itemized pricing keeps cost down by Similar to your relationship with your allowing you to pick and choose what regular optometrist or dentist, your services and “extras” you need while not relationship with your audiologist will paying for things that you don’t need, be a long term one. Hearing devices such as service plans, accessories, or need regular maintenance and your batteries. hearing requires regular monitoring to ensure great outcomes. It’s important to TECHNOLOGY LEVELS, choose an audiologist who makes you RECHARGEABLITILITY, feel comfortable and who you trust for BLUETOOTH… your long-term care. Choosi ng a hea ri ng a id c a n be overwhelming because of the many To ensure you’re seeing a reputable options available to consumers. audiologist, ask them the following Many hearing aids now come with questions: rechargeable options, which means no Do you offer all major hearing aid longer having to deal with changing manufacturers? small batteries. Through Bluetooth Some practices are funded or owned connection to phones, TVs, and tablets, by a hearing aid manufacturer, which you can stream music, shows, and severely limits your access to a wide podcasts directly into your ears. Today’s range of technology and means you hearing aids come in a wide range of may not be getting the device that’s best technology levels at different price suited for you. points. The higher levels of technology Do you “lock” your devices? do a better job performing in background Some practices lock the computer chips noise and have more “channels” for your inside the aids so that only that practice provider to adjust. They are also more can program and adjust the aids. That “automatic”, constantly scanning your means that if you aren’t happy with their environment for sounds and adjusting services or they close down business, accordingly. you’re stuck with aids that cannot be adjusted. Don’t get bogged down by the details! Do you perform audiological “best Your audiologist should work with you to p ra c t i c e s ” i n c l u d i n g re a l e a r select the best manufacturer and level measurements, speech in noise testing, of technology for your lifestyle and your and electro-acoustic analysis? budget.
Salisbury Post/Davie Enterprise/Stanly News & Press
THE TEAM AT UWHARRIE HEARING IS READY TO WORK WITH YOU!
Now accepting patients by appointment only.
(704) 282-6062
info@uwharriehearingdoctors.com www.uwharriehearingdoctors.com
Summer Switch-Up!
For the month of August, call us and mention this ad to receive up to $400 credit towards new technology when you trade in your current hearing aids (no matter how old)
Let this be your time to
start hearing better!
110 W. North St. Albemarle NC 28001
Salisbury Post/Davie Enterprise/Stanly News & Press
How to Choose a
How To Choose | JULY 2020 • 7
Garden Center
Once upon a time, gardeners used to order their seeds from mail-order catalogs. The internet replaced catalogs, but not the expert advice and exposure to new flowers, soils, techniques and classes. Fortunately, there are thousands of garden centers located across the country. Garden centers and nurseries are special places for those with a green thumb or those who wish to develop gardening skills. These outlets are run by gardening professionals with a deep level of expertise who can help experienced and novice gardeners alike in choosing the right flowers and plants for their gardens. Because you’ll likely want to develop a relationship with a garden center, choosing the right outlet will help you get the most out of your garden. Here’s what you should look for when selecting a new garden supply store. DO THE RESEARCH Research will help you determine which garden center is best for you. Look at the center’s catalog or website. Not only should it be filled with quality products, it should also have information to help you become more successful. Staff advice should be easy to understand and apply. Remember, they are not only retailers but also experts in their field.
Your friends and neighbors may have referrals. Does someone in your social network love gardening? If so, then ask who they use. While some garden centers stock a wide variety of brands and products, most have a few products they specialize in. VISIT GARDEN CENTERS Talk to a sales person. Think of a problem you experienced in the past and ask them for a solution. The sales people should be knowledgeable about remedies. Note his or her demeanor and attitude. Find out how long they have been in business and more about the owner. Good centers are usually in the same place, operated by the same people for a very long time. Take a look at the plants. Do they look healthy? Are they well-maintained? Is there a decent variety?
Full Landscaping Service
LANDSCAPING SUPPLIES AND DELIVERY
Typically, plants grown in green houses are better quality. After all, they are produced to be grown in your area. Plants grown locally usually have fewer diseases. A plant may not appear diseased until you take it home. Once you’ve done your research and know what you want, head on over to your local garden center and get started improving your garden.
GARDEN AND YARD DECOR
704-638-0082 WE OFFER PROFESSIONAL & COURTEOUS SERVICE TO
MAKE YOUR LAWN AND GARDEN GROW.
8 • How To Choose | JULY 2020
How to Choose
Salisbury Post/Davie Enterprise/Stanly News & Press
Mental Health Services
FACT: Mental health disorders are real, common and often
treatable. An estimated 1 in 5 American adults1 (nearly 44 million people) and 13-20% of children living in the United States will experience a diagnosable mental health disorder in a given year, according to Mental Health America, an advocacy organization.
Where to find help will depend on age (adult or child) and the type of disorder or symptoms experienced. But qualified professional assistance is more available than ever. Here are some things to keep in mind when looking for mental health support.. FLEXIBILITY Everyone is different. Needs vary from person to person, depending on the diagnosis. One of your first considerations is to look for a center that does not offer a one-size-fits-all approach to healing people. The best facilities will have a wide array of treatment options. Then they will tailor their services to fit specific situations. These centers will have a range of choices. At one end of the spectrum, there might be shortterm outpatient care that can be performed in any setting, much like one-on-one counseling. At the other end, there is full-time, long-term inpatient care in a hospital setting. But most cases will be somewhere in the middle of these two choices. An ideal care center will be able to offer custom treatments for individuals. Whether you are seeking short or long-term care, the staff will be able to match you with the best care for your needs. TEAM APPROACH When people think of psychiatry, they often imagine one-on-one sessions with the patient laying on a couch. In reality, mental health care may involve a multidisciplinary approach.
Psychiatrists and psychologists are just one type of support. Other behavioral health and wellness professionals can also assist in treatment. A mental health care team may include medical professionals like nurses and licensed therapists, along with social workers, case managers, teachers and therapists. It all depends on the diagnosis and desired outcome. A good treatment center will be able to utilize a team of professionals who can work on a patient’s health from multiple angles for the most successful results. FAMILY INVOLVEMENT When family gets involved in the treatment process, treatment has a better success rate. Mental health professionals appreciate the support that a family can give the patient. In addition, some issues — especially addiction — often leads to emotional and stressful family struggles. It is essential that the whole family learns how to deal with these dynamics. Education is key. The best treatment centers also encourage honest, open dialogue among family members. The family must establish healthy, clear communication about the issues they’ve been experiencing. Emotional, mental and substance abuse issues do not affect just an individual. Everyone feels the impact in major ways, and all of those people can become involved in supporting the right health solution for the patient. And themselves.
ONGOING SERVICES Reputable treatment centers will have a strong aftercare program. They will recommend a course of ongoing, continuing care to keep the patient on track with their recovery. This last stage can make a big difference in the long run. It will help the patient ease into daily life while still continuing care. A mental health center should be able to arrange for ongoing services, such as outpatient care, support groups or recovery residences to ensure as smooth a transition as possible once the initial, intense stages of treatment are completed.
How To Choose | JULY 2020 • 9
Salisbury Post/Davie Enterprise/Stanly News & Press
HOPE IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER. MonarchNC.org/CCBHC
N 5th St N 4th St
Monarch’s Certified Community Behavioral Health
N 3rd St
Call (866) 272-7826 to schedule a visit
E North St
Clinic (CCBHC) focuses on mental health and substance
ve eA
e eD
use disorder needs in Stanly County. A caring and qualified team of professionals works with primary care physicians
Pe
350 Pee Dee Ave
E Main St
and community partners to provide comprehensive person-
and developmental disabilities, mental illness and substance use disorders. The organization is nationally accredited by The Joint Commission. Monarch’s two-year CCBHC Expansion Project is 100 percent funded by Federal grant support totaling $3,122,602.
SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN, TEENS AND ADULTS St
Established in 1958, Monarch provides support statewide to thousands of people with intellectual
ath
and adults with complex needs.
He
centered and trauma-informed outpatient care for children
350 Pee Dee Avenue, Albemarle, NC 28001 (866) 272-7826 · MonarchNC.org/CCBHC
10 • How To Choose | JULY 2020
How to Choose a
Salisbury Post/Davie Enterprise/Stanly News & Press
Printer At Standard Office we look out for you and how we can help provide what your business needs to be successful. You should always be treated with professionalism in every area, whether it be supplies, furniture, printing or promotional products, we will recommend what’s best for you and your business. We provide exceptional customer service while we find solutions to help you save money while ensuring you get what you need. Don’t wait days to receive your supplies. Choose an office supply store that has next day delivery like Standard Office does! Competitive pricing is important when choosing an office supply store. However, it’s a good policy to keep in mind that the most expensive doesn’t mean the best and the least expensive is not always the best value. Our goal is to form a long-lasting relationship with you that is built on trust. We’ll take the time to get to know you and your business and make sure you are getting all the help and guidance we can possibly provide!
The right printing company can make all the difference. When choosing the perfect printing company, make sure they have a team that is the best in the business and strives to meet and exceed expectations. Walter Printing is a local family owned business in Albemarle, NC. Delivering remarkable service and quality products has been our top priority for over 60 years. Supporting local businesses is important in today’s economy. Shopping local provides a personalized service with a high priority for customer satisfaction. Choose a printing company that listens and communicates with their clients. Make sure they have the facilities to meet the needs of a wide assortment of businesses. This includes but is not limited to wholesale, manufacturing, retail, commercial, advertising/marketing, financial, educational, health care and food industries. Comparing costs between companies is a vital aspect of selecting the right printing company, as it saves you on expenses and improves your bottom-line. Just because a printing company is cheaper doesn’t mean it will always provide the highest quality. If you’re paying less yet the quality isn’t there, it defeats the purpose of
finding the cheapest provider. The cost of shipping or delivery is one of the hidden fees of printing companies. Walter Printing does not charge an additional fee for local freight and even hand deliver to local businesses! Knowing the customer service you’ll receive from your printing company is important since not all printers have the same consistency level so you need to find someone you trust. Having complete and total confidence in our services along with product consistency, let Walter Printing become the printing partner you can trust. HOW TO CHOOSE AN OFFICE SUPPLY COMPANY Make sure you choose an office supply store that goes above and beyond to help you and your business. The company should have customer service and products that exceed your expectations. Shopping local provides a more personal experience. A positive attitude towards each customer is extremely important. We are dependable at Standard Office and strive to live by these core values.
Advertorial provided by Walter Printing
How To Choose | JULY 2020 • 11
Salisbury Post/Davie Enterprise/Stanly News & Press
Family Owned & Operated Since 1957
130 Anderson Road • Albemarle, NC 28001 • 704-982-7228 info@walterprinting.net • www.walterprinting.net
Supplying Stanly County Since 1947
704-982-0153
SAME DAY COPY SERVICE
Copies, office supplies, ink & toner, furniture and break room supplies
FREE NEXT DAY DELIVERY
Shop Online! www.shopstandardoffice.com Albemarle, NC
Order today and we will deliver to local businesses tomorrow.
12 • How To Choose | JULY 2020
How to Choose an
Eye Doctor
If your vision is not as sharp as it once was or if things look just a bit fuzzy sometimes, that’s a signal that it’s time to see an eye doctor. Many tend to ignore eye care until it’s absolutely necessary. So even if you don’t have noticeable trouble with your eyesight, it is still important to have a routine examination. Getting your eyes checked often makes it possible to discover vision issues early. It can also help you identify vision problems you may not have even known you had. And catching and treating eye problems early will likely lead to better outcomes. Choosing a right optometrist or ophthalmologist can be a challenge. Consider these aspects when doing your research. INSURANCE If you have health or vision insurance, check the list of doctors who are covered by your plan. Insurance companies make agreements with doctors or eye care specialists to deliver services at a prearranged price. Picking an “in-network” doctor will save you money. TYPES OF DOCTORS While optometrists do not have medical degrees, they do have specialized training in diagnosing and treating vision and eye health-related problems. These professionals receive bachelor’s degrees before their four-year training programs. Optometrists can identify and diagnose a variety of eye disorders, including cataracts, glaucoma and retinal disease. They also have the ability to write prescriptions to treat these conditions. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who treat eye diseases. They have medical degrees along with their specialized training for eye treatment. Their extensive background typically includes four years of pre-med school, four years of medical school, at least one year of an internship and three years of residency before receiving their ophthalmology license. Along with treating vision problems, they provide medical and surgical care, and even plastic surgery. TRAINING Eye doctors often specialize in certain diseases or treatments. If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma, for instance, you can find a doctor who has experience specifically treating that disease. Be sure to ask eye doctors about their experiences treating specific diseases and conditions. SELECTION Many people are particular about their eyeglass frames, lenses or contacts. If you already know what you need — such as glasses from a particular designer — look for an eye doctor who has access to that brand. You can also see their stock of eyeglass frames to make sure they carry the style you desire. When purchasing glasses, you will want to have a wide range of products to view. Lenses and frames can vary in terms of comfort, appearance, price and quality. The better the selection, the more likely you will find that perfect pair of glasses. Don’t let yourself miss out on all of the beauty and fun in the world. See your local eye doctor know and start enjoying life again.
Salisbury Post/Davie Enterprise/Stanly News & Press
Salisbury Post/Davie Enterprise/Stanly News & Press
How to Choose a
Medical Clinic
Everyone wants the best medical care they can afford. But sometimes you don’t always have the resources to choose. That’s why it’s essential to find a clinic that can treat your routine health issues before an emergency strikes. Picking the right medical clinic can yield far-reaching benefits for your mind and body, so shop carefully to find one that can deliver the health services you need in a professional and friendly way. Here are some things to consider when choosing a health clinic. CREDENTIALS Like with any services in the health care field, you want to make sure the doctors and nurses at the clinic hold the right credentials to practice in your state. Check with your state’s medical board to make sure your doctor’s records are listed there. Most medical boards have a way of searching online to see which degrees and board certifications medical professionals hold, making it easy for patients to verify their background and specialties. The medical staff’s experience and reputation in your community matter, too. The best doctors have a long track record of happy patients and good medical outcomes, so ask your friends, family and coworkers about which doctors or clinics they recommend. LISTENING Aside from their medical training and experience, one of the most important things that sets a great medical clinic apart is the staff’s ability to listen to your needs. The doctors and nurses at the clinic should make you feel comfortable asking questions and sharing your concerns with them. Listening
carefully to your needs doesn’t just help them understand your potential medical problems, but it’s also a matter of good, old-fashioned customer service.
How To Choose | JULY 2020 • 13
Dr. Christopher Goodman is coming home!
The best clinics will also be able to help you take care of financial issues. Your clinic should be able to help you understand their payment policies and clearly answer questions about your bills. STANDARDS While most medical clinics can provide the same basic services, the best ones have high expectations for how they run their operation and care for patients. In most cases, after your first visit you’ll be able to tell how much pride the clinic takes in its services. Is the office, including the waiting area, kept clean and organized? Do the employees and medical staff have a professional appearance and demeanor? Do they respect your time by keeping appointments on schedule and communicating clearly when there’s a delay? Do the employees seem to enjoy their work? Well-run clinics value the personal lives of the people who work there, something that can lead to a better overall experience for patients. When you see a clinic that sets high standards for taking care of their staff, they’ll be likely to have high standards for how they treat you, too. When you find a clinic filled with caring, highly competent and c o m mu n i t y- m i n d e d m e d i c a l professionals, you’ll know you’ve picked the right one.
ROWAN DIAGNOSTIC CLINIC, PA IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE
Christopher Goodman, MD is returning to Salisbury and joining the RDC Primary Care Team. Christopher is the son of local Internal Medicine doctor Myron Goodman. Dr. Christopher Goodman and his family are active members of the community and very involved in their local church.
October 5, 2020 Dr. Goodman will begin seeing new patients At our 611 Mocksville Avenue office. NOW BOOKING APPOINTMENTS!
Three ways to request an appointment: Call 704-633-7220 ext. 600 Visit our website: www.rowandiagnostic.com Text: 704-270-3619
14 • How To Choose | JULY 2020
How to Choose a
Salisbury Post/Davie Enterprise/Stanly News & Press
Furniture Store cheaply and changed often, big furniture investments — sofas, dining tables, and the like — need to be purchased for the long term.
comes with an expensive delivery fee. It may be worth it to pay a little more for the couch if free or reduced cost delivery is available.
That means putting solid construction before a pretty style.
The bottom line is that there are only two things that matter: the quality of the furniture you are purchasing, and the level of service you receive. Once you discover them both, furniture shopping can be a fun experience that that will beautify your home for many years. And you can be happy and comfortable with the furniture for generations to come.
Solid construction isn’t always apparent at first glance. It should feel solid, not flimsy, of course. Beyond that, find out as much information as possible about the frame, materials and what kind of warranty it comes with. A well-trained staff can inform you about their furniture, how they’re built and why the construction matters. The best stores have employees who act as guides and teachers, not pushy salespeople. VALUE, NOT JUST PRICE It is best to pay more for a quality piece than to try to save money on something that will not last in the long term. The bigger the investment, the more important the design and quality become. Concentrate on finding the best value. An inexpensive sofa will not be a good value if it is built with cheap and weak materials. Likewise, the most expensive love seat will have a wise investment if the frame is not built solidly. It’s best to look for brands with a long track record and good reputation. Choosing the right furniture for your home means choosing a furniture store. You may be able to get some ideas of what you’re looking for online, but you’ll always want to see, try out and imagine what those pieces will look like in your home. Because you won’t always find furniture that suits your tastes or style, or works for your budget, the process can be challenging. But it can also be fun. Here are some things to look for in a quality furniture store. QUALITY THAT LASTS Look for a store that sells quality, long-lasting furniture. While inexpensive accessories can be bought
SERVICE AND DELIVERY Every store has a different customer service policy. Choose a store that is well known for being loyal to its customers. Inquire about return policies. Some furniture stores will allow you to exchange an item within a certain time limit if it doesn’t meet your expectations. Learn what fees are involved if you have to return an item — if that is allowed at all. Also, be certain to ask about the store’s delivery policy, including how much it costs, how far they’ll deliver and how quickly your furniture will arrive. If you are comparison shopping, factor in the delivery cost when considering different stores. A low-priced couch will not save you money if it
How to Recognize Quality Furniture Here’s what to look for: • Materials: High-quality furniture is made of wood whose grain and color matches. Frames should be made of the same wood as the rest of the piece or quality hardwood like poplar. Maple, cherry and oak are some of the best wood for furniture. Pieces made of pine or plywood will be weaker and prone to breakage. • Construction: Dovetail joints have been in use for hundreds of years in furniture construction. Glue is the only material used to secure these joints. Tenon joints and mortise are as widely used as dovetail joints and are just as strong. Doweling consists of metal or pins and wood blocks which are used to secure joints between two separate wood pieces. While not as strong as a dovetailing or tenon joint, doweling does provide adequate stability. • Characteristics: Feel the pieces with your fingertips. Quality furniture is sanded and smooth, inside and out. All joints fit together perfectly. Hutches and dressers should have dust panels. Drawers open smoothly, with no sticking or squeaking. When closed, the drawers should sit flat against the surface of the dresser or cabinet.
Salisbury Post/Davie Enterprise/Stanly News & Press
FURNITURE & DÉCOR FOR EVERY LIFESTYLE & BUDGET Smith’s Home Furnishings has a spectacular selection of furniture to enhance every room of your home. Turn to us to add all the room, bedroom or outdoor living space!
FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED, OFFERING YOU UNBEATABLE PRICES
1454 US HWY. 52 N., ALBEMARLE, NC
704.985.0110
How To Choose | JULY 2020 • 15
16 • How To Choose | JULY 2020
How to Choose a
Jeweler
Find a store where the owner is the jeweler, someone actively involved in the store’s operation who knows his clientele and the business. Your chosen store should be able to design and create fine jewelry. The staff should be happy to spend time with customers to educate them about jewelry and what’s currently available on the market. The store’s staff should be able to help you design and create your custom jewelry piece. Work should be done on premises. After all, you’ve chosen your jeweler because of his or her expertise. Your jeweler should also be able to help you learn to see with your own eyes why some diamonds of similar size differ greatly in value, or from a practical perspective – how you might reasonable select from a variety of different sizes, all priced similarly to fit your budget. All of us like to feel that we receive a good value and good customer service when we make a major purchase.
Casting a ring at Debbie Barnhardt Jewelers. Submitted Photo.
EXPERT ADVICE TO PROTECT YOUR JEWELRY • Try to protect any jewelry from scratches sharp blows, harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures and sunlight. • Store jewelry separately so it does not scratch other jewelry. • When doing household chores such as cleaning and gardening, be sure to remove rings. • Put your jewelry on AFTER washing or bathing and applying makeup and hairspray. • Never wear jewelry while swimming in a swimming pool. The chlorine can cause damage to various gemstones and gold. • Gemstones may become loose in their settings (and possible fall out). Be certain that stones mounted in rings are not loose and do not rattle. The prongs of a ring can and do wear down. If the prongs wear down too much, or break, you can lose the stone. Prongs are easily “retipped” by most jewelers to keep stones secure. • Most jewelers will restring necklaces/bracelets or reset stones (for a fee).
Salisbury Post/Davie Enterprise/Stanly News & Press
