2017 How To Guide

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How to ride a bike How to tie a tie How to draw

How to do just about anything How to write a check How to be a friend How to train your dragon

Sunday, June 18, 2017

2 | SUNDAY, JUNE 18, 2017

Contents

How to choose a veterinarian............................3 How to choose a auctioneer..............................4 How to choose a skilled nursing facility..........5 How to choose an HVAC company....................6 How to choose the right dentist........................7 How to choose a private school........................8 How to talk about Dad’s driving........................9 How to choose a generator................................10 How to Use your newspaper..............................11

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How to choose a veterinarian Most people think of their pets as members of their family. In fact, some people even refer to them as fur children.

That’s why finding a veterinarian or veterinary clinic is so important. You need to find qualified care to ensure the long-term health of your pet.

But in a difficult economy, pet care might get overlooked.

Routine care might even seem unnecessary. After all, do humans skip medical and dental check-ups if they seem like they’re in good shape?

Unfortunately, pets age faster than human beings. Their bodies and internal systems can change rapidly, sometimes in a matter of a few months. When you take

your pet to his doctor regularly, you can catch an illness in its beginning stages.

As you know, catching a disease early can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Routine veterinary care will ensure your pet lives a long and happy life.

Choosing a good veterinarian that suits you and your pet can seem like a difficult task. If you follow these guidelines, you should be able to find a professional that will give your pet the best care possible.

Ask for referrals

Your family and friends may know a good veterinarian. Listen

to their experiences with a critical ear. You need to find someone who is professional, compassionate and timely. Ask specific questions, such as whether the clinic staff likes animals. Do they respond to concerns in a timely manner?

Research veterinary clinics on the Internet. Make a list of prospective candidates, then check with the Better Business Bureau in your state to see if there have been any complaints against these professionals. How were the complaints resolved?

Some people need extra services, such as daycare, boarding facilities and pet training. You may also need to have your pet groomed. Find out if the pro-

spective veterinary clinic provides these services.

Make a visit

After making a list of choices, visit the veterinary office or clinic. Call ahead and request a tour of facilities. The staff should have the time to answer your questions.

You should see a clean and well-maintained office. Observe how the staff interacts with clients and pets. Are they warm toward the animals and owners?

The employees should have an affinity for animals.

Sit in the waiting area and introduce yourself to other clients. Find out if they are happy

with the services and staff. Also, inquire about prices to verify it is within your budget.

If you feel uncomfortable during your visit, consider taking your business elsewhere.

Finding the best vet for you and your pet will take time and research. You should put the same effort into finding a doctor for your animal as you would in finding one for yourself.

The bottom line is that your pet’s health is a cooperative undertaking between you and your veterinarian. Finding the perfect vet for you and your furry, scaly or feathered friend will ensure your pet is with you for years to come.

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How to choose an auctioneer If you are liquidating a business, selling off an estate or raising money for a good cause, then consider using an auctioneer.

Auctions are fun for the participants and host. It is a fantastic way to make a profit.

When searching for an auctioneer, there are a few things to consider.

Auctioneers specialize in auction types, so look for the right one to fit your needs.

Many auctions are personality-driven events, so be sure you select an auctioneer who is gregarious and personable. This person must have the gift of speech, a touch of humor and the ability to develop a rapport with the audience.

The success of your auction will depend on how much the auctioneer can establish a rela-

tionship with the audience. After all, he will entice bidders to participate. A great auctioneer can make a sale or entice people to bid on unattractive items.

Look for an auctioneer at an auction house. The best auctioneers are independent contractors with skills and a long track record of experience.

You can also utilize the Internet or your local newspaper to find a qualified auctioneer. Most newspapers have an auction section in their advertising section. If you use the Internet, be sure to visit the website of a certified institution. Not every site lists credentialed auctioneers.

If you’ve exhausted these sources, contact the National Auctioneers Association or visit their website, www.auctioneers. org. Many auctioneers belong to

professional organizations such as the Certified Auctioneers Institute, or CAI. By hiring an auctioneer with this certification, you can know he or she has had extensive train-

ing. Auctioneers with this certification are also held to a higher standard of integrity.

While it is important to use a professional, especially for large events, sometimes it can be difficult to find a person in your area.

If you can’t find a professional, look for someone in your community with charisma.

Sometimes a well-known person can also draw people to your event. Your potential auctioneer should undergo some training in the overall auction process.

There are often

AUCTIONS EVERY TUESDAY!

logistics that must be explained beforehand.

When speaking to candidates, be sure to ask for references and work history. Verify licensing and check that they are actively working auction events.

Once you have a list of finalists, attend an auction and watch them perform. Pay attention to how they handle attendees and the pacing of the event. Take notes on each auctioneer. Once you have narrowed your list to one or two candidates, perform a background check and obtain reliable references.

After you have completed this process, you can relax and have fun alongside the participants of your event. The right auctioneer will not only be entertaining, he or she will get the job done with ease.

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SUNDAY, JUNE 18, 2017 | 5

How to choose a skilled nursing facility More and more Americans are faced with questions about how to care for family members — or for themselves — as they grow older. Assisted living facilities provide an ideal solution for people who can’t quite manage on their own, but do not need extensive medical care; skilled nursing facilities are best for people who require regular medical attention.

Depending upon where you live, there may be anywhere from two or three to more than 100 nearby facilities to choose from. Having choices is a good thing, but as you explore your options, keep in mind that all assisted living and skilled nursing facilities are not created equally. This fact is especially crucial if your loved one requires significant medical attention.

The Consumer Consortium on

Assisted Living offers the following 10 tips for choosing the appropriate assisted living facility.

4Make an accurate and honest assessment of your physical, financial, mental and lifestyle needs.

4Visit as many facilities as you can to get a sense of the choices in your area.

4Narrow down your selection to the top two or three choices, and then return to those facilities and ask lots of questions.

4Ask to review a copy of the Resident Agreement (facility contract).

4Ask to review the licensing or certification inspection report.

4Call the long term care ombudsman program and ask if there are complaints about the facilities you are interested in.

Contact the ElderCare Locator

at 1-800-677-1116 or www. eldercare.gov to find your local ombudsman, who advocates for assisted living and nursing home residents.

4Make an unannounced visit to the facilities you are interested in. Talk with the residents and their family members about the facility.

4Ask what conditions or circumstances may result in the need to relocate or move to another facility.

4Ask what the baseline fee is and what services are included in that fee. Ask about additional charges for services and products.

4Choose the facility that comes closest to your needs.

Specialty care needs Among the elderly, the need for respiratory care, such as

long-term oxygen therapy or ventilator-assisted breathing, is extremely common. These health issues call for specialized attention from experts like respiratory therapists.

If proper respiratory care is one of your concerns, be sure

to consider what respiratory therapists say about selecting a quality skilled nursing facility.

Skilled nursing and assisted living facilities can be excellent solutions to long-term care concerns — just be sure you choose the right one!

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How to choose an HVAC company When your heating or air conditioning system fails, it can be a nightmare. Whether it is a cold winter day or sweltering hot outside, the HVAC system in your home is vital to your comfort and safety.

Most people cannot tolerate extreme temperatures. The elderly and people with chronic health problems need to have the temperature stabilized in their homes.

Prolong the life of your HVAC system and prevent equipment failure by hiring a qualified professional to service and maintain it.

The best HVAC contractors are helpful and reliable, but a poor contractor can cost you extra money and heartache.

Ask people in your social net-

work whom they might recommend. Good word of mouth will go a long way toward helping you find the best professionals in your area.

After creating a list of candidates, call the Better Business Bureau, your state’s board of contractors or builders’ association to check on their reputations.

Your town’s building inspection office may also have information for you. Avoid companies that have many complaints on their record.

Upon narrowing the list, call the remaining ones and ask about pricing, guarantees and warranties. Also inquire about how long it would take to complete a job and the manufacturers’ brands they use.

If you are purchasing new

equipment, find out if you need a separate service contractor or if routine maintenance and repairs are included in the price of installation. Does the company provide around-the-clock emergency service?

High quality HVAC companies are fully licensed, bonded and insured. If a worker is injured or causes damage to your property, that insurance should cover it.

Otherwise, you could be liable for the damages. Your insurance premiums would likely increase as a result.

Reputable HVAC companies will usually belong to recognized professional and trade organizations. Some wellknown organizations include the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Air-Conditioning

and Refrigeration Institute and the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and AirConditioning Engineers.

Membership in one of these organizations is not automatic.

Applicants are required to have certain certifications, meet professional standards and meet or exceed other requirements before they are admitted.

Before any work begins, verify that all the required building permits are in place. Most companies will file permits on your behalf at the local building codes office. But don’t assume that it has happened. Check with the permitting office first. Work done without proper permits could result in a fine and time delay.

Have a load calculation done

before installing a new system in any building. The best companies perform a thorough calculation rather than estimate.

Buildings change over time due to foundations cracking or settling. It will affect the efficiency of any equipment.

The HVAC company shouldn’t use the old unit to determine the proper size of a new one. If your old unit was inadequate, you will want to install a unit that is a different size. Speak with your HVAC installer to determine the right size and model for you.

Ask your HVAC contractor to perform annual checkups to verify that the unit is running at peak efficiency.

With these tips, you can choose a reliable HVAC business that will help you for years to come.

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How to choose the right dentist Choosing the right dentist will go a long way toward helping you maintain your health and appearance.

Whether you need a routine cleaning or a complex dental procedure, finding the right dentist will save you time and money. No one wants to have a root canal redone because of shoddy work.

It is vital that you find a dentist who makes you feel comfortable, someone who will help you improve your dental health in a hygienic environment.

Finding a dentist near your home or workplace will help you make your appointments on time. As well, their office hours should accommodate your schedule.

So how should you start your

search? First off, ask your social network for recommendations.

Friends, family and colleagues can be a great resource.

Searching on the Internet for dental offices in your area will also help. Professionals often have their own websites, which include the backgrounds of those working there. The website may also tell you about how they handle procedures and appointments, as well as specialized services they offer.

Once you have gathered a list, begin calling each prospective dentist. You can talk to a receptionist or other staff person if the dentist is unavailable.

Check that he or she has earned the necessary

degree from a reputable school and is current on all licensing and continuing educational requirements. Ideally, he will be familiar with the latest dental technologies and trends.

Ask if the dental office provides emergency services. If you break a tooth or need to have a root canal done right away, it is vital to find an available dentist.

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have any concerns, communicate with the staff and dentist.

Many professionals are willing to go above and beyond to help you work through these issues.

A basic oral health history should be taken by the dentist or staff. They should tell you about future treatment and prevention options. A quality dentist will help you feel comfortable during your visit. If you experience anything less, cross that person off your list.

The best dentists offer friendly, happy dental experiences.

Teeth are extremely important to your overall health. They can also help or hinder your appearance. Finding a good dentist is like finding a friend who consistently brings out your best smile.

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WE APPRECIATE THE OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE YOU! Dr. J. Ryland Gwaltney

Lead time for appointments is another consideration. Some offices might be able to see you right away, while others may have a three-week wait time.

Your prospective dentist should accept your dental insurance. If not, you may need to cross that person off your list.

If you have no dental insurance, inquire about payment plans.

The office should give you an estimate before performing any work.

When someone meets all of your requirements, visit the office. The staff should be professional and friendly. Every dentist should be willing to answer all of your questions.

Some people are afraid of dentists or pain. If you

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How to choose a private school Parents send their children to private schools for many reasons. Ultimately, it is because they want what is best for their children. They believe a private school will help their children succeed.

Choosing the right private school seems like a daunting decision. After all, an educational institution can help or hinder your child.

The task becomes less daunting when you take the appropriate measures, do research and ask the right questions.

The following tips will help you determine the right school for your child.

Your first step is evaluating your child’s educational goals and needs. Does he have natural gifts you are seeking to nurture?

Are there physical or learning disabilities or behavioral issues that should be addressed? Has your child voiced an interest in science, math, sports or music?

Ask for referrals from your child’s current school, teachers, guidance counselors, family and friends. This should give you a solid beginning.

Now, consider what an ideal school would offer. Make a list of these features. Will your child attend a local day school or boarding school? Are there travel or budgetary restrictions? Are extracurricular activities, such as sports, band, art or debate club, important?

Conduct some research on the Internet for schools that have these features. Most sites will have plenty of information, as

well as policy summaries. Look at photo galleries and videos.

Some sites may even give virtual tours of the facilities.

Think about your child’s daily commute to school. Are there suitable transportation options?

After looking at these considerations, you can now make a “short list” of schools. It will consist of institutions that fit your criteria. Ask your child for his or her opinion about these schools. Talk it over to decide which ones are best.

When the list is complete, it is time to narrow it down even further. Determine entrance requirements and ensure your child meets them before contacting a particular school.

Make a list of general questions, along with a subset of spe-

cific questions for each school.

Then start contacting the institutions. If their answers are satisfactory, make an appointment to visit them. While there, inquire about the enrollment paperwork and any testing your child will have to complete.

Check out the atmosphere of the school. Is it relaxed or competitive? Is there structure and discipline, or is it more freeflowing? Most importantly, will your child feel comfortable there?

Be aware of how you are treated by the staff members. They will be dealing with your child throughout the day. Are they friendly, helpful and respectful?

Try to meet as many of the staff and teachers as you can.

Imagine your family engaging in school activities. Is it easy to

picture your child spending them there? If your child accompanies you to these appointments, ask him or her about the school.

Children often have special insights and reactions to environments.

After all tours are complete, review your findings. You should be able to start eliminating schools.

Now that you have seen the school, asked questions and met the staff, you can also develop a better understanding of the financial cost of each school.

Ask about financial aid, if needed.

With diligence and forethought, you should be able to apply to the school of your choice and have your child happily accepted.

Congratulations to the Class of 2017

Our new state-of-the-art Early Learning Center houses our preschool program and two kindergarten classes.

Our renovated original gymnasium will continue to be a valuable part of our campus, serving as a gymnasium for our lower school PE classes and auxiliary gym for athletic practices.

Integration of new Smart board technology and tablets in the classrooms allows teachers to utilize an array of activities to further engage student learning.

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SUNDAY, JUNE 18, 2017 | 9

How to talk about Dad’s driving

BY SHIRLEY MCGEE “Dad, give me the keys….”

No one wants to start a conversation with their father about giving up driving with this phrase.

Yet, too often, they do, and the situation becomes confrontational. So how do you deal with this difficult situation to make sure it is less painful for both you and your dad?

First, start early and start by observation, instead of assumption. Neither age nor health should be the determining factor in whether a person has the ability to drive.

Look for ways to be a frequent passenger in your father’s car and observe his skills while driving. When you notice something that concerns you, make a mental note of it so that you can discuss

it later. Never ever discuss your observations with your father while he is driving.

Second, have conversations about driving. Casual conversations about driving become a foundation should serious conversations be necessary. Casual conversations give you an opportunity to assess how your father feels about driving.

Make talking about cars and driving part of your routine. They can be about the weather, road conditions, auto maintenance or other drivers.

Your casual conversations should also help you understand how your father feels about driving. What does it mean to him?

Is driving functionary to get from one place another? Does it give him joy? Is it a status symbol?

A way to help friends or family get around? Understanding what driving means to your father can help you plan for other ways to fill that need.

Observation helps you gather facts to work. Casual conversation gives perspective into what concerns your father and why driving is important to him. Both of these will make a serious conversation easier.

That discussion may simply be getting your parent to give up driving at night or restricting driving to lesscongested driving times. But if

it gets serious enough where it is time for your Dad to give up his keys, you will have built a solid foundation upon which to have that discussion.

It could even wind

up being a discussion that your father might initiate with you.

10 | SUNDAY, JUNE 18, 2017

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How to choose a generator Many people these days are talking about the weather.

Extreme weather conditions are becoming the new normal.

Whether you’ve lost electricity due to the weather, a downed power line or some other occurrence, a generator will help you get back to business quickly.

Power outages deprive us of all the things we take for granted, such as light, heating and air conditioning. The devices we use most frequently, such as phones, computer and televisions, all rely on electric power.

A generator provides you with clean, useful electricity from a local source.

If you live in an area prone to storms, hurricanes and tornadoes, then investing in a generator will

bring comfort and protection to you and your family.

Automatic standby generators

Automatic standby generators are on continuous standby, meaning that the generator can power itself on and off, regardless of whether you are home. Once a break in the flow of electricity is detected, these machines respond instantly. They turn themselves on and begin supplying power.

Installed outside of your home, these generators are similar to a central heating and air unit. They are powered by liquid propane or natural gas. The generator supplies electricity directly to your home’s circuit breaker.

Because they operate quietly and smoothly, they are not an annoyance or distraction to you or your neighbors.

Portable generators

Portable generators are built to remain outside of your home.

These mobile units are fueled by gasoline and manually operated. Extension cords will make it easier to plug objects directly into the generator. These kinds of generators are usually cheaper than automatic standby generators.

Standby vs. portable

Despite the price difference, there are plenty of advantages to buying an automatic standby generator.

Since automatic standby generators use natural gas and liquid propane, the cost of running these machines will be cheaper.

The Red Cross endorses automatic standby generators, because they are a cleaner method of powering your home.

Portable generators produce harmful byproducts that can damage the environment.

As well, these units keep your house neat and clear of clutter. Portable generators require numerous wires and extension cords running through your home. It is much easier to have power connected directly into your home’s infrastructure.

Once power is restored, automatic standby units turn themselves off. There is no need to

worry about shutting it off yourself.

Getting the most from your generator

It is important to pick a generator that can supply power to all the items you need in your house.

Understand running and surge wattage. These two values inform you how much power your appliances need and the maximum amount of electricity they can handle.

Prior to purchasing a generator, check the safety tags on your appliances for the correct wattage.

The running and surge wattage on the generator needs to be high enough to satisfy the ratings of your most demanding appliances.

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How to Use your newspaper Advertise your business: Email advertising@suffolknewsherald.com or call 539-3437 Place a classified ad: Email classifieds@suffolknewsherald.com or call 539-3437 Submit a news tip: Email news@suffolknewsherald. com or call 539-3437

Submit an event for the calendar: Email news@suffolknewsherald.com, fax 539-1123, or mail P.O. Box 1220, Suffolk, VA 23439

or email us at obits@suffolknewsherald.com

Submit a letter to the editor: Email news@suffolknewsherald.com, fax 539-1123, or mail P.O. Box 1220, Submit an obituary: Basic death notices are published Suffolk, VA 23439. Letters must be signed by the free of charge and include author and must include a basic funeral information.

Custom obituaries are telephone number for verification purposes. Letters available for a nominal fee should be approximately based on the length of the obituary. Call 757-539-3437 300 words in length.

Suffolk's only dedicated news organization.

Proudly serving Suffolk for 144 years. www.suffolknewsherald.com

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Weekly newspaper featuring news and events in Windsor.

Bringing thogether the best of The Branch and the people who make it special six times a year. www.westernbranchmagazine.com

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Contact us: 130 S. Saratoga St., Suffolk, VA 23434 Telephone: 757-934-9605 Fax: 757-539-1123

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