How To Guide by Merced Sun-Star

HOW

A Useful Resource Guide To “How To” Topics... March 2, 2013

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DAYNAMER

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

How to Important Points... • Ask Around. Recommendations are key. Talk to friends and family about their experiences at local medical centers. ask your health care provider about the professional reputation of cancer treatment hospitals, particularly those treating your type of cancer. • Additional Support: There are hundreds of support outlets both in person and online. Your cancer treatment hospital should offer support groups for people going through treatment and their loved ones. • Insurance: Be meticulous about learning exactly what your insurance covers and does not cover. Get the most out of your plan and avoid any unexpected bills. • Take Notes. Writing down questions before medical appointments and recording pertinent details from your conversations can help you keep track of doctors and treatment options.

choose a caNceR TReaTMeNT ceNTeR

Why choice matters No one is prepared for a cancer diagnosis. After the shock subsides, there are hundreds of questions to ask and multiple options when it comes to therapies and treatment centers. Treatment options alone span from surgery, chemotherapy and radiation to experimental trials and alternative medicine. The cancer treatment center you choose will be imperative, not only in the treatment process, but in the healing process. That’s why it’s important to choose a center where you feel comfortable, where you agree with the treatment practices and philosophies and where they have the capacity to give you the attention and focus you need. Hospitals vary in size, technologies, clinical expertise and quality of care, so do your research early on. You deserve the best treatment available for the type of cancer you have. Choose your doctor wisely It may seem like you have to jump in and tackle your disease right away, but it’s just as crucial that you take your time to choose the right doctor. It’s a general rule that if you find a great oncologist, he or she will come with a stellar hospital.

What does Board Certiﬁed mean? While medical licensure sets the minimum competency requirements to diagnose and treat patients, it is not specialty specific. Board certification demonstrates a physician’s ongoing commitment and expertise in consistently achieving superior clinical outcomes in a responsive, patient-focused setting. Patients, physicians, healthcare providers, insurers and quality organizations look for Board Certification as the best measure of a physician’s knowledge, experience and skills to provide quality healthcare within a given specialty. Use the physician that found your cancer as your first resource. Compile a list of questions to ask and take notes! If your doctor isn’t sure of the diagnosis, ask him or her where you should turn next. Don’t leave without at least four names of highly recommended doctors to turn to next. There are many different cancer specialists and you could need one or more throughout your course of treatment. It never hurts to do your own research.

You deserve the best quality care for the type of cancer you have. Terms and definitions can be confusing and overwhelming after a while, so here’s a head start to getting to know doctors’ training and credentials: • Most physicians are medical doctors (M.D.s) or osteopathic doctors (D.O.s) • Physicians must pass an exam to become legally licensed to practice medicine, and each state has different licensing standards and procedures • Specialists are doctors who have completed their training in a specific area, such as radiology or internal medicine • Medical oncology is a subspecialty of internal medicine. These doctors treat cancer and manage patients’ courses of treatment, but may refer the patient to other specialists. • Hematology is also a subspecialty of internal medicine, focusing on blood diseases and related tissue, including bone marrow, spleen, and lymph nodes. • Radiation oncology is a subspecialty of radiology, which is the use of X-rays and other kinds of radiation to diagnose and treat disease. • Surgery is a specialty that treats disease by surgical operation. There are general surgeons and surgeons that specialize in certain types of surgery, such as a brain surgeon. Once you find some doctors that meet your criteria, get ready to perform some interviews. The most important question to ask as you’re looking for your primary oncologist is how much experience they have in treating your specific type of cancer. Ask them their success rate and what they define as “success.” If you’re interested in alternative medicine options, make sure they’re comfortable with incorporating this into your treatment plan. Be sure to ask them about their experience and credentials. You should feel comfortable enough with them to ask these important questions and more: 1. Does the doctor use the hospital I would like to work with?

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2. Is the doctor available? When are his or her office hours and how long does it take to get an appointment? 3. Does the doctor listen to me, explain things clearly and encourage me to ask questions? 4. Who covers for the doctor when he or she is unavailable? Will that person have access to my medical records? Research your cancer center It may seem obvious, but the best place to start when researching your treatment center is location. Some of the most renowned cancer facilities may be located in different cities or states and, for some, travel is a feasible option. However, this is not a possibility for everyone and convenience is important. For one-time surgeries that don’t require long-term care, traveling to a specialized surgeon may be an option. However, if chemotherapy or radiation becomes part of your treatment, you may need a friend or family member to drive you to and from appointments, so be sure to think out every detail. When it comes to size and scope, there are a couple of different options. Some treatment centers specialize in a certain type of cancer, such as breast or lung cancers. These facilities have their advantages, but a multi-specialty clinic has a number of specialists under one roof who are used to working with each other. Other perks of a larger clinic include centralized medical record systems and a central location. If a large center isn’t available in your area, don’t worry. You should be able to get the same quality of care at many hospitals nearby. By and large, cancer care is standardized, so it’s more important that you’re comfortable with geography and personnel. As you research your care facility, ask about clinical trials. Many hospitals throughout the country take part in FDAregulated clinical trials that test new drugs or procedures. Taking part in a trial could be a great supplement to your treatment plan, but they come with many disclaimers. Mostly because doctors have no way of knowing if or how these new treatments will work. Learn all you can about the trials to make sure they’re right for your type of cancer.

DAYNAMER

Merced Sun-Star, Merced, Calif.

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

Saturday, March 2, 2013 3

When she was diagnosed, I said, “Only the best care. The latest technology. And we’d go wherever we had to, no matter how far.”

A short drive is all it took...

Your priority is to get the best possible treatment for the best possible outcome. That is why Mercy Cancer Center has expanded our treatment capacity and introduced cutting-edge radiation therapy technology, bringing comfort, hope and convenience to those fighting cancer here in Merced. Plus, Mercy’s affiliation with the UC Davis Cancer Care Network connects our board-certified physicians and chemo-certified nurses to university-based specialists and researchers who collaborate in real time on diagnosis and treatment.

Why go any further? Get your rest. And get world-class cancer treatment in your part of the world.

For more information call 209-564-3600

Mercy UC Davis Cancer Center

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DAYNAMER

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

How to Important Points... • Funeral Rule. Look up the Federal Trade Commission’s Funeral Rule, which requires all funeral directors to give consumers accurate, itemized price information, plus other mandatory disclosures about goods and services. • Get a Review. Believe it or not, most funeral homes have reviews! Just like your local mechanic, you can get real recommendations from families who have experienced these facilities ﬁrsthand. • Do your Research. From cremating to burying to donating your body to science, there are a number of options when it comes to preparing for your funeral. Do your research beforehand to make sure your comfortable and make sure your wishes are outlined clearly in legal documents. • Create a Will. It’s important to have a will, even if you don’t think you have much to give away. Consult a professional or ask a friend to help list your assets and be clear about their distribution.

PREPLAN YOUR FUNERAL

Why preplanning funerals is important Funerals not only provide solace for the living, but honor deep ritual or religious traditions for families to enjoy and pass on to the next generation. Unfortunately, a shaky economy and limited resources are making it more difficult than ever for families to afford funerals, let alone plan the funerals their loved one would have wanted. This could be why preplanning funerals has become increasingly popular over the past several years. Many have strong ideas about how they want their lives celebrated, even if they’re not going to be there. If you can make the call on your retirement and retain predetermined medical rights when you’re unconscious, then why not dictate how you’ll be remembered? Most funerals are planned in about a week by grieving family members. Preplanning can save money and stress by cutting out hasty decision-making. Getting funeral plans in order beforehand doesn’t necessarily include prepaying and there are many payment options. Research the possibilities thoroughly, which could include paying the costs upfront or saving the bulk sum in a special account. Open up a dialogue Planning your funeral arrangements now can open up a much-needed dialogue with your loved ones and save them a lot of anxiety during a time when they should be grieving. There’s no need to feel macabre or shy, and many people report feeling relieved once they’ve have this conversation with their family. Conversely, there’s no need to even mention preplanning to family members. There’s a lot you can do on your own to make preparations. Take your time with decisions and cover costs over time instead of one all at once. Many funeral homes even offer discounts for those who participate in preplanning services. Choose the right funeral home The facility that takes care of your end of life arrangements and services is also

“Nothing is certain except death and taxes” — Benjamin Franklin

the place your family will be spending a lot of time and money. The dynamic between your loved ones and the funeral directors is important. Make sure you’re contracting with a facility that will treat your family and your last wishes with respect. It’s best to plan your funeral in a central location where the most people can attend. However, you don’t have to hold services in the same place you want to be buried. You have location options, but keep in mind, the costs for transporting a body can be astronomical and insurance may not cover this. On that note, make sure you choose a funeral home that knows how to deal with unique situations, like transporting your body from a faraway city or country, and set aside some extra money for unexpected occasions. Here are some additional questions to ask as you compare funeral homes: • Will your service be the only one at the facility that day? • Can they accommodate the number of people you estimate to be in attendance? • Are there audio and video accommodations? Are these included? • Is there a separate play area for children or an infant cry room? • Are outside food and beverages allowed? • Is there alcohol allowed on the premises? • Where is the nearest cemetery in relation to the facility? Choosing a green funeral One great reason to preplan your funeral is to get everything you want, ahead of time. If living a green lifestyle is important to you now, there are many decisions you can make for your funeral that impact the health and well-being of

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the environment. While it’s still up in the air just how green cremation is, the general consensus is that it’s better for the environment than standard ground internment. Cremation takes up considerably fewer resources, but it also has its environmental drawbacks. For instance, the cremation process requires using fossil fuels, but newer facilities are less likely to release as many pollutants as the older, less efficient facilities. On the other hand, traditional burials require toxic embalming fluids that are harmful toward funeral directors, wildlife and the environment. Cemeteries take up hundreds of thousands of acres of land, requiring the annihilation of trees and vegetation and tons of chemicals for weed control and fertilization. When you choose cremation, you’ll take up less room, or better yet, you can choose to have your ashes scattered somewhere beautiful. While most green burial practices are still under development, biodegradable urns are available today. These will biodegrade slowly and safely under natural conditions and can even be used for water burials. Check with your cemetery of choice to see if outer containers are required. Make sure your affairs are in order Your family and loves ones will be under an inordinate amount of stress after your passing, so it’s best to make sure your estate is in tip top shape. This means having everything arranged and as clearly labeled as possible, including paper and electronic files and media. This is a great activity to update every year around tax time. Keep a detailed list of your phone and bank account information, along with updated usernames and passwords. Share this information with a few close loved ones. Let them know where you’ve stored sensitive documents and provide them with a list of things you’ve done to prepare for your funeral. Make sure your end of life plans are spelled out in detail. Some folks even go so far as to purchase their cremation urn ahead of time.

DAYNAMER

Merced Sun-Star, Merced, Calif.

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

Like any journey

This one requires planning

Saturday, March 2, 2013 5

Making your ﬁnal arrangements in advance isn’t hard. So, let us help you and ﬁnd out more about • How to plan your final arrangements 4 simple steps • Creative Cremation and Traditional Burial Planning Options • Veteran’s Benefits – learn the 10 important facts that every Veteran needs to know

Making advance arrangements for your own funeral may not be something you want to think about. But by pre-arranging your services, you save your family undue stress in a hard time, you ensure the service and arrangements will be to your liking, and you realize the cost-savings of planning ahead.

Call us today and request your FREE Personal Planning Guide

Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home

1490 B Street, Merced, CA 95340 | 209-722-4191 | FD-538

www.stratfordevansfunerals.com

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DAYNAMER

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

How to

CHOOSE A SKILLED NURSING FACILITY

 Skilled care helps a person get better, function more independently and learn to take care of personal health needs.

Important Points... • Ask for Surveys. The facility may have the results of a recent survey done by federal or state surveyors. You should be able to look at it. • Stagger Your Visit. Stafﬁng can be different during different days and times. Revisit the facility to experience new staff. • Attend a Meeting. Ask a staff member if you can attend a family or resident council meeting. • Check with Your Insurance. It may go without saying, but you should deﬁnitely know how your insurance intends to work with you on covering skilled nursing facility stays.

The healing and rehabilitation of a loved one, or even yourself, can be a long and tedious process. That’s why there are facilities that specialize in taking patients from an injured or impaired state to living normal, healthy lives. Skilled care is health care that’s provided when you or a loved one need a professional nursing or rehabilitation staff to treat, manage, observe and evaluate care. This is referred to as a skilled nursing facility, as opposed to a facility where care can be administered by non-trained or nonprofessional staff. Skilled care requires a specially trained nursing or rehabilitative staff because patients are usually undergoing intensive rehabilitative or end of life treatment. Staff could include registered nurses, licensed practical and vocational nurses, physical and occupational therapists, speech language pathologists, and audiologists. The facility will probable be part of a nursing home or hospital, offer short-term and long-term care and be fully or partially covered by insurance. Most of these facilities focus on improving the quality of life for those they serve through various health services, such as orthopedic, neurological, cardiac, pulmonary and wound care. There are also options for other medically complex diagnoses. You or a loved one may want to consider a skilled nursing facility because the doctor recommends it, to help improve an existing condition, or to maintain a current condition and prevent it from getting worse. If your doctor recommends long- or short-term care, ask him or her for a list of facilities in the area that may be a good fit. If you’ve been in an accident or are researching for a friend or family member, you can start your search online and begin scheduling tours. Most facilities offer free consultations and walkthroughs for new patients. Skilled care helps patients get better, function more independently and even incorporate family members in setting and maintaining health goals. Types of therapies A skilled nursing facility should support your doctor’s clinical care with a full

Improving physical ﬁtness can lead to dramatic improvements in quality of life. spectrum of specialized services. Interdisciplinary teams are trained to work together to provide patients with comprehensive care to restore and maintain quality of life through times of injury and illness. Most facilities will serve a large number of patients with multiple kinds and levels of diagnoses – both clinical and acute. Whatever the condition, the type of treatment will probably fall under one of these: Occupational therapy: Occupational therapists generally work under orders set by a physician to help restore or maintain the patient’s ability to manage activities of daily life. This could include things as simple as eating, bathing, dressing and cleaning. Patients receive an individualized course of therapy based on close, personal observations of the patient’s strength, coordination and range of motion. Physical therapy: Physical therapists are licensed professionals who may or may not work in conjunction with doctors and nurses to help patients restore lost strength, mobility, coordination and balance. Exercise is an important part of getting better and physical therapists will develop a plan that incorporates a variety of rehabilitative approaches and equipment. The goal may be to build muscle mass, improve bone density or increase stamina to encourage overall health. Improving physical fitness can lead to dramatic improvements in quality of life. You will be able to do more without getting tired, plus exercise has been linked to decreased instances of depression and mood swings in people of all ages. Whether you or a family member have experienced a stroke or an accident, physical therapy can help get patients back on track to an active life.

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Speech therapy: Many patients in skilled nursing facilities have suffered from neurological damage because of a stroke, an accident or even surgery from cancer in the jaw or neck. The goal is to work with other health care professionals to restore the lost ability to speak or eat. Patients may have to relearn how to swallow or retrain the mouth, lips and tongue to cooperate for clear speech. Outpatient rehabilitation: Some facilities will offer outpatient rehabilitation to continue their work after they’ve returned home. This allows patients to experience continuity of care so there are fewer relapses. They can work with the same therapists and doctors for continued success. It may also be that the patient never needed to stay onsite to begin with. Transitional rooms: Transitional rooms are an extension of a therapy program meant to help patients transition back to living at home and taking care of themselves. The rooms are set up as small apartments with dining rooms, kitchens and bedrooms to help patients practice everyday activities in a real life environment. If this model interests you, ask the nursing facilities on your list about these or similar programs. Feeling comfortable For short- or long-term care, or even outpatient services, you and your family should feel comfortable in the skilled nursing facility. As you conduct your research and start scheduling interviews, look for programs and amenities you care about, such as: • Rehabilitation (physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy) • Restorative exercise programs • Alternative therapies, if desired • Clinical care, ranging from Alzheimer’s and dementia to orthopedic care to pain management • Amenities ranging from beauty salons to fine dining to movie theaters During your visit, don’t be afraid to ask questions and take a good look around you. Do people seem happy? Is the facility clean and organized? Are the personnel able to answer your questions? It may take a while to find the right fit, but it will be worth it.

DAYNAMER

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

Merced Sun-Star, Merced, Calif.

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  

Rehabilitation Services Right Here in Merced

Hy-Lond Health Care Center - Merced 3170 M Street | 209-723-1056 Franciscan Convalescent Hospital 3169 M Street | 209-722-6231 Short-term Care ! Long-term Care ! Physical Therapy ! Occupational Therapy ! Speech Therapy ! 24 Hour Nursing Care !

National Award Winner

Quality American Health Care Association

Call or visit us today! We embrace a reverence for life, and a heart for healing.

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DAYNAMER

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

How to

choose an Insurance agent

 If you care enough to research for best insurance agent, your professional representative will care about you, too.

Important Points... • Get Personalized Service. You may think that shopping online can get you the best prices, but you may be sacriﬁcing customer service down the road. • Protect Yourself. Don’t give any personal information, such as your social security number, to anyone over the phone until you’ve veriﬁed the legitimacy of the company you’re working with. • Keep Good Records. ask for copies of all the paperwork you sign and keep a copy of the payment receipt or check for your initial payment. • Ask the Right Questions. ask the agent if the company offers a full range of products and what kind of discounts they have for bundling insurance plans.

Why your carrier is important There are plenty of reasons to review your insurance carrier – buying a new car, a new home, losing or changing jobs, or starting a new business are just a few. There types of insurance that are required by law or loan stipulations, such as car and home insurance, respectively. Then there are types of insurance that you need to think more about, like life or disaster insurance. Purchasing these and other plans may seem superfluous, but they’re important to protecting yourself and your family from the financial costs associated with unforeseen events. A good insurance agent can help you through financial situations spanning from auto accidents, to medical problems, to natural disasters. As you begin your search, keep in mind you have a couple of options. There are independent agents or captive agents, sometimes called “direct agents.” Independent agents may represent many different legitimate companies and can sometimes offer a better deal than the agent limited by one company. A captive agent writes exclusively with one company, but both independent and captive agents represent a company or companies and receive commission from them. For more complicated transactions, such as finding coverage for a small business, you may want to look into an insurance broker. Ideally, a broker represents your company to find the maximum coverage for the best possible price. They generally charge a fee for their service. Characteristics to look for You’ll want to choose an insurance agent you can trust implicitly, not just with your money, but with the lives of you and your family. Do your research before you give out any information, especially your Social Security number or banking information. If an agent approaches you with an offer that seems too good to be true, it probably is. While most independent agents are legitimate, you may be better of finding an insurance company with a solid, longstanding reputation. Be especially wary if the agent cannot show credentials or doesn’t

Do your research before you give out any information, especially your Social Security number or banking information. have an office. Referrals from friends and family are a great way to find an agent. One study from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) suggests that 79 percent of consumers ask for advice from family and close friends when in the market for an insurance agent. Another 65 percent said they asked colleagues and acquaintances. Get to know their personality and how they work by asking questions about customer service, market trends and rate fluctuation. Many simply review insurance agents and agencies online. You’ll find a lot of larger companies this way, but many companies also post profiles of their independent agents. For small business needs, you may want to speak with a trade association of other business owners. There is an option to forego an agent altogether and simply purchase coverage directly from the company online. However, for more complicated situations or if you simply want personal service, it’s best to stick with an agent. When evaluating your list of potential agents, there are many things you should keep in mind. Have conversations with prospective agents, preferably in person, but over the phone is OK too. Explain your situation and ask for a quote. While this number is not completely accurate, you also don’t have to work with them just for getting a quote. Get a feel for how the agent works and communicates. This will be a good indication if you’ll be able to work with him or her. One of the easiest characteristics to judge is attitude. If the agent is responsive to calls and emails, it shows that they’re apprecia-

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tive and respectful of your business. Make sure he or she is actively looking for new insurance solutions to solve your unique concerns and that the agents insurance philosophies match your own. Experience is relative, so make sure your agent has experience in the areas you care about. Look for letters behind the agent’s name. These represent designations and credentials they’ve earned from groups and associations. Ask them what these credentials mean and what they had to do to earn them. Make sure the agent you’re working with is licensed in the state you’re being insured in. While you’re at it, check with an organization like the Better Business Bureau to see if the agent or their company has had any complaints filed against them. The financial strength of the company is also important. There are five major financial rating services, each using different combinations of qualitative and quantitative data to assess the company. Generally, a rating from A to F is assigned to the company, but be sure you understand the rating system before you automatically rule someone out. Putting yourself ﬁrst Don’t be afraid to ask your prospective agent for references. Sometimes this is the best way to get an accurate idea of their integrity and how they work. Ask questions and, when in doubt, move on. There are plenty of agents and companies out there. Even with a stellar insurance agent, it’s important to develop your own personal knowledge of the business. Understanding the terms and coverage available will help you make informed decisions about the coverage you and your family or business require. When you have a list of potential agents, make appointments with each of them and prepare your list of questions. Questions about quotes or coverage should be asked now, and if he or she doesn’t know the answer, they should know how to find it. If you’re using an independent agent, you should have plenty of different options. Evaluate these options with your agent to make sure you’re picking the most appropriate policy for your unique situation.

DAYNAMER

Merced Sun-Star, Merced, Calif.

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

Saturday, March 2, 2013 9

Life changes. Your insurance agent can help you stay in step.

Let me help you get the protection you need. Whether you’ve had a baby and bought a new car, or now have a teenager on the road, your insurance should keep up with your life. Call today for a free review to help you decide what protection is right for you. Eason Insurance Agency, Inc. (209) 723-0771 3321 G Street, Ste. A MERCED CA Lic: 0C97581, 0610707

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DAYNAMER

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

How to

choose a MaTTRess

 Most people spend at least a third of their lives in bed, so skimping on your mattress can actually be detrimental to your health

Important Points... • Don’t be Shy. ask the salesperson for a test pillow so you can accurately assess each mattress in a position you would actually sleep. •Make Believe. even if you can’t afford it, take a trip to a high-end mattress store to test their products. chances are, if you can find a really expensive mattress you like, you can find a similar model elsewhere that’s more affordable. • Get Tricky. It’s possible to make a firm mattress softer, but impossible to make a soft mattress firmer. spend a little less on your mattress by foregoing the expensive memory foam or pillow top, then head to your local department store for a more affordable bed topper. • Don’t Break the Bank. expensive mattresses might feel better, but they won’t necessarily cure all your back pain and sleep woes. experts suggest getting a mattress you love, without breaking the bank. • Use Your Warranty. If you’ve slept on your bed for a couple of months and you notice sporadic sleeping patterns or new aches and pains, do not hesitate to call in a warranty claim. That’s what they’re there for!

Why a new mattress is imporant If you’ve purchased a mattress before, you know the drill. You walk into a sea of foam and fabric, bedframes and dust proof covers. Firm or plush? Traditional or space age? The sheer number of choices can be overwhelming; then you see the price tags. Rest assured, you can get the mattress of your dreams and take advantage of services like financing, in-home trials and warranties. Most chiropractors and orthopedists suggest replacing your mattress every seven years, at which point it probably won’t be providing the support it once did. Some experts recommend changing it out every five years if you’re over 40. Ultimately, you are the best judge. If your mattress looks old, has coils sticking out, or rips and tears, it may be time to go shopping. Be aware of dips and sags, as well as creaking and shifting when you move around. Sometimes a lifestyle change, like an injury, new sleeping patterns or moving in with a spouse can warrant a new mattress. Give yourself time As with any major purchase, it’s important to begin by researching your options. Start with online reviews of different mattresses and start making a list of the best ones in your prices range. Doing your research at home will give you a good idea of pricing before you even set foot in the store. From there, it’s easy to take the model names and numbers you like into the stores to begin the testing process. If you’re able to try the mattress in person, it’s suggested you lay down for a full 15 minutes in your typical sleeping position. If the salesperson is trying to rush you around the store, ask them kindly to give you some time, or simply leave the store. You won’t be able to tell if the mattress is right for you after a mere 30 seconds. Don’t get overwhelmed by all the different brand names and types of mattresses out there. Most of this confusion is pure branding. Here’s the lowdown on most of

The best part and a little known fact about mattress shopping – you can haggle! the basic types out there: • “Firm” and “plush” are exactly what they suggest – the hardness or softness of the mattress. Within this category, you have several choices, from “extra firm” to “ultra plush.” Some manufacturers add thick pillow tops to standard mattresses for even more plushness. For the best of both worlds, try something like “cushion firm” or a firm mattress with a soft pillow top for the support you need and the softness you love to cuddle up in. • Sleep number beds feature inflatable air chambers inside the mattress that can be adjusted according to the level of firmness you desire. Use the remote to make your bed as firm or as soft as you want and, depending on the model, you have even more options. Some tilt into various reclining positions and some have separate chambers on either side of the bed so you and your spouse can choose different settings simultaneously. • Probable the most well known mattress out there is the memory foam mattress. Known widely as the Tempur-Pedi, this is actually a brand name and there are several other types of foam mattresses out there that mold to the shape of your body while you sleep. This is not only comfortable for most people, the mattress is actually applying equal pressure to all points of your body at once, offering a lot of support. Stick to your budget In your research phase, you should have gotten a good idea of what most mattresses cost and how much you’re willing to spend. As you venture into the stores, stick to your guns and don’t let the salespeople distract you with more

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expensive models or superfluous accessories. If you are interested in add-ons, such as mattress covers, extended warranties, or a bedframe, keep them on your list and include these at the end during the bargaining period. For even more stringent budgets, check out local circulars or sign up for mattress store mailing lists so you can keep your eye on sales and clear-outs. Holiday weekends are a great time to look for sales, such as Memorial Day or Veteran’s Day. The best part and a little known fact about mattress shopping – you can haggle! Of course, some stores won’t budge on price; in fact, they’ll try to get even more money out of you for accessories and warranties, but prices are flexible at most major chains. To get the best deal, try asking for a price, then proposing something different, or tell him or her that you love that particular model, but you’re only willing to spend X amount of money on it. Before you sign on the dotted line Most stores will offer a number of perks when you purchase a new mattress, so make sure you’re getting everything you want before you hand over your credit card. You may be able to negotiate free delivery and assembly of your new bed, plus disposal of your old mattress. Warranties are important, but be realistic and do the math. If you’re supposed to replace your mattress every five to 10 years, it may not make sense to extend your warranty. Review the fine print to make sure your warranty covers everything you need it to. Most reputable stores will offer 30 to 60 days to try your mattress at home. Pay close attention to how you’re feeling during this time, both at night and during the day, and if you’re not happy, return or exchange it. After several days of sleeping on your new mattress, you should feel well rested and alert during the day. While a new mattress won’t solve all your problems, your mood and general well-being should be improved.

DAYNAMER

Merced Sun-Star, Merced, Calif.

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

Saturday, March 2, 2013 11 Family Owned & Operated in California, Washington, Nevada and Idaho.

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DAYNAMER

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

How to

buy a home

 It’s easy to let emotions get in the way of reality when looking for a home, so make lists and stick to your guns!

Important Points... • Be Upfront. buyers generally have the upper hand, so request the extras that are important to you, such as including light fixtures or a new coat of paint with purchase. • Be Flexible, if Possible. If you don’t need to relocate by a specific date, you can use the closing date as a negotiating point to get concessions from the seller. • Ask for a Home Warranty. a good warranty only runs $300 to $400, but would be a nice gesture from the seller. This can cover the cost of repairing or replacing appliances and major systems, like plumbing, for up to one year after closing. • Don’t Buy Cheap. you can fix up a house in a good neighborhood, but you can’t fix up a bad neighborhood. • Don’t Jump the Gun. Rather than buying the first place within your budget that looks pretty, assess the level of repairs and amenities for each home. Then, make a calculated decision.

The real estate climate has changed quite a bit over the last five years or so. Whether you’ve purchased in the past or are a firsttime buyer, it may be time to brush up on your home buying tricks and tactics. The first rule is to always use your head, not your heart. The climate out there is sticky, with unsteady home values and tough home loan requirements, so be realistic about your goals. If you need a home loan, there are very strict requirements to qualify, one of them being impeccable credit. Check your credit reports and research what kind of loans you may qualify for. Talk to your bank or a financial specialist for help; they can help you figure out how much money you’ll need for a down payment. Most loans require amounts ranging from 3 to 20 percent, depending on your credit scores and the loan. Before you even start looking for a home, compare mortgage rates at local banks and credit unions. You’re more likely to get personalized service at local establishments, so avoid getting the runaround on the phone. Getting pre-approved for a loan is important because it gives you a fair idea of what you can afford. There’s no use looking at houses outside of your price range. Plus, while you’ll still have to get formally approved for the loan, the pre-approval lets the seller know that you’re serious. Most lenders will let you borrow up to 28 percent of your household income, and your total debt can be up to about 36 percent, but you should aim to keep your borrowing to no more than 25 percent of your family income. When deciding on the price you’re willing to pay, calculate what kind of rent you might get for the property. Would this cover the house payment and property taxes? If not, you may not be getting a good value. Getting prepared Every mortgage requires different paperwork, but most loans will require financial statements showing your assets and debts, two to three years of tax returns, three months of bank and brokerage statements, recent paycheck stubs and possibly letters of recommendation from present and past

Walk the neighborhoods you’re interested in, check out the schools and get to know the businesses nearby. employers. Get organized early and have your paperwork ready by the time you start looking at properties. You’ll probably want a real estate agent, but before you hire anybody, do a bit of your own research. You’ll want to set a realistic budget (based on your pre-approval), the right neighborhood and the right amount of space. You may not get everything you want, so keep an open mind. Some people go into the home buying process looking for a house with a yard and end up with a condo downtown. However, make a list of items you won’t budge on, such as expensive HOA fees or the neighborhood’s proximity to the best schools. Walk the neighborhoods you’re interested in, check out the schools and get to know the businesses nearby. Even nice looking neighborhoods can be dangerous, so check crime statistics online and talk to the neighbors and local business owners for tips and advice. When you finally begin looking at properties, learn as much as you can about the house and the sellers, including how long the house has been on the market, the original asking price and what the owners paid. You may even want to consider doing a little more background work on the sellers. Knowing that a seller faces past due bills or legal problems could save you money down the line. All this said, when you find a great house at a good price, it sometimes pays to act quickly. Never rush into a home, but realize that there might be others ready to make a bid. Starting the hunt Find a trusted professional with years of experience, preferably in your neighborhoods of choice. The search process alone

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can take months. Real estate agents will research and organize showings with your unique preferences and busy schedule in mind. Your real estate agent should be more knowledgeable than the Internet and up to date on the latest market trends. You will be spending a lot of time with this person, so make sure he or she meets all the qualifications of a new friend. Learn his or her experience, training and methods. Make sure you feel comfortable telling him or her exactly what you want out of your new home, down to the smallest details. Your agent is your ambassador and should be able to find multiple listings that meet your criteria. In the meantime, feel free to stop in to open houses on your own. You can even sign up for a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) alert to search for properties in your area and price range. It is thought of as poor form to contact the listing agent yourself if you’re using a Realtor, but it doesn’t hurt to look! Buying your home Once you’ve found the house of your dreams, you’re ready to make an offer. Your real estate agent will be able to help you with logistics, but your offer will vary depending on the condition of the home, how long it’s been on the market and how competitive the market is in that particular area. When you are officially in escrow, you are committed to buying, unless you don’t get final mortgage approval. Escrow can last anywhere from 30 to 90 days, while your lender finalizes your mortgage. Make sure final acceptance is predicated on a home inspection to include surveys and reports on things like pests, dry rot, earthquake faults and more. Closing escrow usually involves signing a stack of documents related to the property and your mortgage agreements. At this time, you’ll be receiving the deed, the title and money can be set aside in escrow to resolve any outstanding issues. This is an incentive for the seller to quickly resolve any outstanding issues.

DAYNAMER

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

Merced Sun-Star, Merced, Calif.

Saturday, March 2, 2013 13

Need a new closet to go with your spring cleaning? It comes with a new home! • 38 years of experience! • 2 conveniently located offices • 80 agents to serve you and your needs Residential Sales

701 W. Olive Ave., Merced • 209-383-2171 2581 First St., Atwater • 209-358-6429

Commercial Sales

3170 Collins Ave., Ste. A, Merced 209-725-7253

Property Management & Rentals 701 W. Olive Ave., Merced 209-383-6277

Merced County’s Full Service Real Estate Company

www.gonellarealty.com

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00137308

COLDWELL BANKER GONELLA REALTY

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

How to

buy a used car

 If you’ve decided to buy a used car, you’ve already made a smart decision.

Important Points... • Check it Out. It may be impossible to get a warranty for an older or high mileage used car. In these cases, it’s even more important to have a mechanic check it out. • No Lemon Aid. Most people think there are used car lemon laws, but these apply mostly to new cars sold from dealerships. • Blue Book It. When you’ve decided on the kind of car you want, start researching its value with tools online. you should have an idea of what the car is worth when you start negotiating. • Check it Yourself. before you pay a mechanic to check it out, look for rust underneath and outside the car, check the tires for tread and under the hood for rounded or stripped bolt heads. This could indicate shoddy repair work.

Just mention used cars and jokes about sleazy men in leisure suits and “lemons” from the 1970s come to mind. But times have changed. Nowadays, it can be a great idea to buy a used car, if you do the work. In fact, when it comes to value for your money, it’s difficult to argue new verses used. Everyone knows that a new car depreciates the second you drive it off the lot. In the first year, it’s said a new car can lose up to 30 percent of its original value. That means you’re going to lose quite a bit of money if you’re planning on selling the first five years. Buying used avoids this loss, as there isn’t much of a difference between a brand new car and a 3-year-old car, except a new car is sometimes 30 percent more than you should be paying. And because used cars are so much cheaper, you’re automatically widening the selection of cars you can afford. New cars, especially when financing, can be very expensive to insure. The older the car and the smaller the loan, the less you pay for insurance. Plus, if your car is worth less than 10 times the premium on your insurance, it’s probably not worth getting comprehensive coverage. Talk to your insurance agent before your buy to get a quote. Private owner verses dealership There are two possible ways to acquire a used car, from a private owner or a dealership. With private owners, you often find some really great deals. Look on Internet search engines, in the classifieds and at estate sales. You’ll get a more streamlined sales experience through a dealership and keep in mind that owners can become attached to their cars and can be difficult to work with. In addition, buying from an owner means taking the car “as is,” meaning you’re responsible for anything that may be wrong with it the minute you sign on the dotted line. Private sales aren’t generally covered by implied warranty laws, which

There are two possible ways to acquire a used car, from a private owner or a dealership. Like everything, each has its advantages and disadvantages. are unspoken, unwritten warranties that hold sellers responsible if the car doesn’t fall within reasonable quality standards. Dealerships, on the other hand, put used cars through rigorous mechanical and cosmetic inspection before they’re put on the market. These cars are usually covered by warranties beyond the original factory warranty to include things like roadside assistance. Working with a dealership will honor consumer protections laws so you can purchase with a little more confidence. Most dealerships take trade-ins, which allow you to upgrade to a new ride at a lower price. There’s also the added benefit of not having to sell your old car, which can be painful and time consuming. It’s possible that this could result in a better negotiation experience than one done with a private seller because you can count on it being a strict business transaction. Get the most out of your dealership experience by asking what kinds of extras they can offer free of charge. Some can throw in extra services like detailing, oil changes or complimentary service visits. One huge perk of a dealership is the option to finance. Even the most affordable used vehicles can cost more than you have on hand, and cash advances from the bank come with huge fees and high interest rates. Most banks have excellent deals on loans and interest rates for older, used vehicles. Dealerships have relationships with

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banks that will finance cars much older than 5 years and at rates no different than loans for a new vehicle and they’re more than happy to help you find a financing option that’s right for you. List prices at dealerships may seem higher than private sellers, and is many cases they are. However, there are reputable dealerships out there that have gotten in tune with today’s buyer and the new online marketplace. These dealerships use sophisticated software that helps them aggregate the current worth of every vehicle available online. Then, these dealerships price their inventory competitively in line with what is available out in the market. This is sometimes referred to as value pricing the car. This means they don’t start high and work customers for money like some people might think. Instead they price the vehicles according to their worth to actually avoid negotiations and offer customers a fair price up front. If you enjoy grinding out a deal with several hours of back and forth negotiations, there are still plenty of dealerships out there that still employ these types of tactics. However, you can save a lot of time and money by working with a dealership that has gone to the new value pricing model. Extra steps to take No matter where you find the used car of your dreams, you should run a history report and have a mechanic inspect the car on a lift. This could mean an extra out of pocket cost for you, but it’s worth it. You’ll avoid getting scammed or ending up with a lemon. When dealing with a private owner, never pay cash for a deposit. If the deal falls through, you’ll be out of luck, but checks can be stopped and credit transactions can be disputed. There are many pros to purchasing a used car as opposed to a new one. You’ll get more value for your dollar and still may be eligible for some of the perks of new car buying, such as financing and service plans. Happy shopping!

DAYNAMER

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

Merced Sun-Star, Merced, Calif.

Saturday, March 2, 2013 15

1234 Auto Center Drive | Merced, CA 95340 Phone: (888) 658-5862

The Razzari Auto Centers puts every “Quality Assured Pre-Owned” vehicle through a comprehensive 125+ Point Inspection.

The Razzari Auto Centers will buy your trade whether you purchase from us or not.

Every “Quality Assured Pre-Owned” vehicle at The Razzari Auto Centers comes with our limited 30 days Warranty.

$5,998

2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser Vin 6T263324

$13,998

2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid Vin 73015127

$18,788

2007 Inﬁnity M35 Sport Vin 7M307922

$9,488

2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Vin 59112487

$14,553

2011 Hyundai Elantra Vin BH013997

$23,788

2010 Mercedes C300 Vin AR113550

Every Vehicle at The Razzari Auto Centers comes with a 100-Point Annual Mechanical Inspection FREE

The Razzari Auto Centers offers FREE shuttle service to all our service customers within the Merced Area.

The Razzari Auto Centers will give you a FREE CarFax Report on the vehicle you are looking at because every “Quality Assured PreOwned” vehicle has a clean history.

Every vehicle at The Razzari Auto Centers comes with our 72 Hour “Pease of Mind” Policy - Return it within 72 hours and exchange it for another vehicle of equal or greater value.

Every “Quality Assured Pre-Owned” vehicles at the The Razzari Auto Centers inventory is Value Priced.

You can bring your vehicle purchased Anytime your vehicle needs service from The Razzari Auto Centers in work performed at The Razzari Auto for COMPLEMENTORY Car Washes Centers that is estimated at $300 or more comes with a FREE Loaner for as long as you own the vehical. car.

$11,998

Vin 5S111593

Vin 4PR11445

2005 Dodge Ram 1500

$14,788

2010 Nissan Altima Hybrid Vin AC112253

$23,788

2010 Ford Expedition EL Vin AE847388

2004 BMW 325XI

$15,788

2005 Jeep Wrangler Vin 5P323750

$23,998

2007 GMC Yukon SLT

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00137197

www.razzari.com

Vin 7J321162

$12,334

2010 Dodge Caliber SXT Vin AD612356

$15,799

2005 GMC Yukon Denali Vin 5J102257

$29,655

2011 Dodge Charger Vin BH551249

DAYNAMER

$12,557

2005 Nissan Titan LE Vin 5N57347

$17,998

2006 Inﬁnity G35 Coupe Vin 6M720847

$49,998

2011 Ford F-150 Raptor Vin BFD14786

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

How to

choose AN AUTo BoDY RePAIR shoP

 It’s important to trust your intuition about the shop you’re considering.

Important Points... • Not So Fast. If you’ve been in an accident, you do not have to use the repair shop your insurance company suggests. Do your own research! • Trust Your Gut. If you don’t feel comfortable with the shop or its workers, keep looking. You’ll be happiest with a manager who is honest and straightforward. • The Final Inspection. Ask if the shop has a designated quality control person to inspect the ﬁnished product. • Start Now. It’s never too early to start researching an auto body shop. Find one before you need it to save yourself a huge headache later.

There is never a good time for auto body Repairs whether you have been involved in an Accident or just need to have your older car spruced Up. So many innocent people end up getting scammed out of money for repairs that may not have been necessary or pay for something that didn’t get done at all. You may be in the middle of a hectic week when the kids have soccer, ballet and piano in the same evening, or you just need to get to work the next morning. It is never easy to choose an auto body repair shop but whatever your time constraints, there’s no more important service to look into thoroughly than auto body repair. Like any important service, it’s important to get recommendations from friends, family or acquaintances you trust. The shop’s actual service is as important as its customer service, so they should have rave reviews. Some shops are smaller and family owned, so you may not even hear about them on the radio or in online advertisements. Some of the best establishments are found only through word of mouth. The most important point is that they make you feel comfortable and confident! Just as good referrals are important, it’s also vital that the shop you choose has experience working on your particular type of car. The shop should be up to date with the newest technologies and be able to work on all makes and models of vehicles. What to look for It’s not uncommon for different body

Some of the best establishments are found only through word of mouth. The most important point is that they make you feel comfortable and conﬁdent, not that they have the newest, shiniest tools. shops to hand out varied estimates and this could be because of the size and scope of the establishment. Every shop varies in what they charge for manhours, and that’s where the bills can differentiate. Whether it is in the price of the estimate or the way the car will be repaired no two shops will be the same. Your actual estimate likely comes from a reference guide that estimates the number of hours required to perform common repairs. When it comes to estimates walk in to a shop and look around for a business license and ask to see it if it’s not there. Ask how long the shop has been in business at that location. Auto body shops that are young or move from place to place may suggest bad business. You’ll want to know if the parts and

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materials the shop intends to use on your car are new, used or aftermarket. Aftermarket parts can save you a lot of money and can be just as good as new; however, they may be more difficult to match down the line (for example, headlights that may need to be replaced). What to look for Ask for an estimate and about the shop’s warranty for its work. You should be able to secure a written warranty for at least one year on the parts and the work, plus three years on paint jobs. Ask any and all questions you may have regarding the repair process. A wellequipped shop should be able to make you feel at ease with the entire process. After you’ve received several quotes from different shops, you can start to narrow down your search. If you like one place in particular, but they’re more expensive, show them your other, cheaper quotes and see if they’ll match them. It’s important to protect yourself from being overcharged, but be wary of the cheapest bids as well. Chances are if one quote is significantly cheaper, the shop is cutting corners. It’s always a good idea to trust your intuition when visiting a shop. Pay attention to the number of people working in the garage – if it’s empty, it could mean people are avoiding it because of shoddy repairs. If the garage is dirty, cluttered or disorganized, this might be an indication of the work they’ll do on your car. Repair work demands meticulous detail, so a shop that is filthy and disorganized may not be as thorough as you like.

DAYNAMER

Merced Sun-Star, Merced, Calif.

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

Saturday, March 2, 2013 17

Rich’s Auto Body is the premier auto body shop in the Central Valley. We have been providing quality service in our area for 49 years. Our newly expanded facility utilizes the most up-to-date technology to guarantee your vehicle’s repairs are done right the ﬁrst time.

Rich’s offers many types of services for your auto.

Some of the many services that we offer are listed below. Auto Detailing

If you are involved in an accident Rich’s will tow your vehicle to our shop free of charge within 50 miles of Merced, with repairs. We are approved by the State and City for rotation towing. All vehicles towed to Rich’s are stored in a fenced security alarmed area or we also have inside storage available.

Vehicle Restoration

Rich’s restores Classic and Collector automobiles including Mustangs, Corvettes, and Muscle Cars. Mr. Rich started in the auto repair business in 1955, and along with his technicians, they can offer you the best in restoration services.

Frame Shop

Rich’s Auto Body Inc. Utilizes the latest frame and alignment equipment and technology to assure you that your car is put back to factory speciﬁcations.

Custom Auto Body Work and Fabrication Done to your speciﬁcation.

The staff at Rich’s Auto Body is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality of service and repair. We welcome you to tour our shop.

923 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Merced • 209-723-1022 •

www.richs-autobody.com

Since 1964 – Serving Merced for over 49 years

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00137364

24 Hr. Towing and Car Carrier Service

Who better to detail your vehicle than Rich’s, who has been repairing and detailing customer’s cars for over 49 years.

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

How to

choose a heaRING aID sPecIaLIsT

 Learning how to choose a hearing aid is just as important as buying a hearing aid.

Important Points... • Don’t Leave Without a Test. after your get your hearing aid, don’t leave the ofﬁce without checking whether it ﬁts and works properly. • Check the Price tag. hearing aids can cost anywhere between $1,200 and $2,500 and may not be covered by some insurance plans. • Follow-Up. Most manufacturers allow a 30 days trial period, so follow-ups are a must. You’ll want assurance that your device is working perfectly within that period. • Get Educated. ask your clinician about aural education and rehabilitation, some of which can be done at home or through group sessions. This may make your transition to using a hearing device even more seamless.

Hearing loss is often a slow and gradual process, so by the time you’re ready to look into a hearing aid, you may already have a specialist in mind. If not, now’s a great time to start and it could be as simple as getting a referral from your primary care physician. If you are more inclined to research and ask around for recommendations, there are several things to keep in mind. Choosing the right specialist is important to properly addressing your specific needs. Take your time and choose a professional that will get you in a comfortable device that works for you. A reputable clinician should work with you every step of the way to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible with the device you choose. Hearing aid devices are completely different today than the ones your grandparents relied on, and the technology is advancing all the time. You will have options, so make sure to do your research before you make an appointment. Only you know what you can live with every day and this way, you’ll know what questions to ask. Your hearing aid clinician should have extensive experience in all different kinds of hearing aid devices and should be able to explain the difference between each. Varying shapes, sizes and brands apply to different situations and your specialist should not have a loyalty to any one manufacturer. A good clinician will listen to your needs and answer all of your questions. He or she should be able to offer information about your hearing aid and additional resources if necessary. Always feel comfortable contacting your specialist if you are uncomfortable or if you feel the

of hearing loss you have and how much it’s progressed. Your hearing aid will be programmed specifically for you, which is why several follow-up appointments for adjustments and tests are performed.

The number one thing to remember is that your hearing device will only be as good as your hearing health professional.

Not everyone will find the perfect fit for their degree of hearing loss, and for these cases, there are custom options. You may want to consider this fact if you’re looking for cheaper options online or at a big box retail store. Take the time and money to get fit properly by a professional.

device isn’t working properly. You deserve the best care possible. Making the right decisions The number one thing to remember is that your hearing device will only be as good as your hearing health professional. Once you’ve scheduled your appointment, ask a friend or relative to come along with you. Two people hear and remember more, so you may want a back up set of ears. Most people suffer from some degree of hearing loss for an average of five to seven years before they go in for a hearing aid. Because the process is so slow, most don’t realize there’s a problem until their hearing has degenerated quite a bit. Unfortunately, the worse the hearing loss, the more difficult it is for your brain to adjust to hearing aids. Try to act quickly if you think you may be having a problem hearing. During your visit, you should be given a hearing test in a soundproof booth. This lets the specialist know what kind

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That being said, with a hearing specialist, you should be able to try before you buy. Ask for demonstrations of the hearing aids he or she recommends for you. Sometimes, a simulated sound field can demonstrate how the hearing aid works in particular situations. For instance, it will work differently in noisy and quiet situations and should be adjustable. You don’t want add-ons you don’t need, but it won’t hurt to ask what else technology has to offer. Directional microphones that help you hear in noisy places, telecoils that help with phone conversations, and feedback cancellation that prevent the hearing aid from squealing all may help. Many of these devises have rave reviews. Wireless technology makes it easier to use cellphones and televisions and earwax protection products can prevent malfunctions. Consider your lifestyle and share your specific concerns with your hearing specialist. He or she may be able to suggest items like these and others to help you in your journey.

DAYNAMER

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

Merced Sun-Star, Merced, Calif.

Saturday, March 2, 2013 19

TAKE HEARING FOR GRANTED AGAIN… See what people are saying about our hearing aids

FREE

For almost 4 years I couldn’t hear much, it was really embarrassing. Since I got my new hearing aids From Garrett Hearing Center a whole new world opened up for me, I can hear everything again. My hearing aids are so easy to use and care for Renee has a wonderful staff, always very attentive.

Receive these FREE services:

Complimentary Hearing Test Find out what you’re hearing and what you are not. Video Ear Inspection Take a look inside your ear. It might just be wax! Product Demonstrations Come see our most advanced hearing aid technology, and what it can offer to you.

DESIGNED TO FIT YOUR LIFE Every hearing aid in the LOOK family has been designed to perform in the most challenging listening situations. Whether you’re active and on the go or living life at a more leisurely pace, there’s a LOOK hearing aid that fits with the way you live.

$1000 off

a set of LOOK Hearing Instruments. Exp. 3/15/13

We Are Experts in Hearing Healthcare

FREE

Ann Garcia, Merced I have been doing business with Garrett Hearing Center for many years & have always been very satisfied with my hearing aids, with Renee & her staff. I am so pleased with my new hearing aids I am not missing any conversation, nobody even knows I am wearing hearing aids unless I tell them.

Pack of premium hearing aid batteries.

Ruth Natera, Winton

Limit 1, 4 pack batteries Exp. 3/15/13

Appointments will be limited! Call Today!

1-800-564-5502 or 209-722-3325

Renee A. Garrett, BC-HIS

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780 W. Olive Ave. Suite 100 Merced, CA

DAYNAMER

00137199

We’ve been helping your friends and neighbors with their hearing needs for over 30 years. We understand how hearing loss can make life more difficult than it has to be, affecting the people around you and how you live your life. Our goal is to help our patients understand how much they could benefit from better hearing, and give the gift of hearing back to those who have lost it. Call us today for a free consultation & hearing evaluation.

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

How to

choose a new car

 A new car is second only to a home as the most expensive purchase a majority of consumers make.

Important Points... • Do the work. Find detailed pricing, technical speciﬁcations and driving impressions on car sites and forums. Knowing exactly what each car has to offer and what deals are out there is key to getting a good deal. • Get Your Money’s Worth. research to see which vehicles retain the most and least value and look into current rebate and ﬁnancing offers. • Trade-in Savvy. Find out what your current car is worth before you negotiate the possibility of a trade-in. and only mention a trade-in after you’ve gotten the best possible quote for your new car. • Contracts, Contracts, Contracts. a warranty is included in the price of the car, but a service contract is separate and usually costs extra. Before you purchase a service contract, read it carefully.

Searching for a car can be a fun, yet sometimes complicated experience. While it can be exciting to have your choice of dozens of brand new, shiny cars in perfect working condition, most new cars have an assured depreciation, except in very rare circumstances. But there’s a reason people flock to new car lots every day. Car loans and leases make people’s lives a lot easier and service plans ensure that you never have to think about the cost or hassle of keeping track of car maintenance. So while the process of buying a new car can be daunting, the secret is shopping for a great deal and making sure you’re getting everything you need out of the transaction. Try to keep in mind that the seller is there to make sure you drive away with the right car. In most cases of the time, he or she is not there to make you pay more than you should – it’s in their best interest to keep you happy even after you drive away. Think of the process as a business negotiation. It’s not personal and the sooner consumers recognize this, the happier they’ll be with their purchase. As with any large purchase, getting the best deal takes patience and a lot of research. If you’re not up for investing time in research or haggling, expect to pay at least the suggested retail price, if not more for financing, tax and add-ons. Getting started Getting in a new car, smelling the new plastic and upholstery, checking out all the newest electronic features on the dash – these are the fun parts of car shopping. But before you step foot onto a lot, decide what kind of car you’re looking for and how much you intend to pay for it. You’ll feel more confident in the showroom and less pressured to make uninformed decisions after you do some research. You’ll also be more likely to get a good deal. Check publications and popular Web sites that explain new car features and pricing in detail. Each car has different model types and options, so be specific about what you’re looking for and how

Check publications and popular Web sites that explain new car features and pricing in detail. much you’re willing to spend. Compare models at different dealerships online or contact a car-buying service to make comparisons. Negotiations can have a vocabulary of their own, so learn the lingo before you head into a dealership: • The “invoice price” is the manufacturer’s charge to the dealer. Generally, this price should include shipping charges, also known as freight charges, so if you’re buying a car based on the invoice price, check to see that freight isn’t added twice. • “Base price” is the cost of the car without any options, or add-ons, but should include standard features and the factory warranty. • The “Monroney sticker price” or MSRP includes the base prices, the manufacturer’s installed options, the manufacturer’s suggested retail price, freight charge, and fuel economy. This rundown should be on the car’s window as this label is required by federal law and may only be removed by the person who bought it. • The “dealer sticker price” is usually the Monroney sticker price plus the suggested retail price including dealer-installed options, such as additional dealer markup (ADM) or additional dealer profit (ADP), dealer preparation, and undercoating. Get a great deal Most good deals on new cars are purely situational. All dealerships have an inventory they have to push out, so if you’re looking at a car that’s been sitting in the lot for a while, chances are you can get it at a substantially reduced rate. Most man-

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agers would rather turn a car’s spot three times a month than watch one car sit just because he or she doesn’t want to concede to a reduced price. Larger dealerships that move more inventory can afford to sell a few cars under invoice, but discounts are a couple of hundred dollars and rarely much more than that. Rare, but also possible, is that the manufacturer is offering a bonus tied to sales and you are the sale that will push the salesperson into victory, which would make he or she more likely to negotiate. Believe it or not, car salespeople could care less about all cash offers. Instead, use your haggling skills to get free addons, a great deal on financing or a chunk knocked off the sticker price. If you’re not into hardcore negotiations, just be honest. Tell the salesperson exactly what you want, what you can afford and what kind of monthly payment is realistic for your budget. Most dealerships will work with you to find the right fit at the right price. Be open to ordering your car for delivery if you don’t see exactly what you want on the lot. It may involve a delay – sometimes more than a week – but the cars on the lot may have expensive options you don’t care about that are jacking up the price. However, dealers are often more concerned with pushing what they have on hand, so you may be able to negotiate a good deal if the car in stock meets your needs. Keep an open mind when it comes to less popular colors as they tend to stick around longer and therefore might go at a reduced rate. You may be better off actually purchasing the car toward the end of the month. This is the time of every month where the salesperson may be closer to hitting a sales threshold and he or she may be more inclined to give you a good deal. Commission is based on the percentage of the car sale, but commission increases more when you sell more cars. There are also end of the year sales at most dealerships, as old models need to be quickly sold before the new models arrive.

DAYNAMER

Merced Sun-Star, Merced, Calif.

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

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DAYNAMER

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

How to

choose YoUR soLAR soLUTIoNs

 Put the sun’s power to work in your home

Important Points... • An Evolving Science. solar energy solutions and mechanics are improving every year, so if you looked into this a while ago, it might pay to check out what’s new in the business. • Beat the Night. If you think you’ll be stuck without electricity at night, you’re wrong! There are several ways to store solar energy for later use. • No Water Needed. creating energy is historically a water intensive process, with electricity production in the U.s. accounting for more than 40 percent of all daily freshwater withdrawals. solar systems do not require any water to generate electricity. • Multiple Options. If the shape or direction of your home makes traditional solar panel mounting impossible, you can install a solar array on the ground or a pole.

In an increasingly environmentally conscious world, finding new ways to go solar are getting easier and more accessible by the day. From your home to your small business to the high-rise downtown, there are solar solutions for every occasion. Solar energy is a good option for many families and businesses because it is a renewable and nonpolluting source of energy and heat. With solar power, there are no greenhouse gases and little harmful effect on the ecosystem. If becoming an environmentalist wasn’t one of your new year’s resolutions, don’t stop reading now; solar energy offers a wide array of benefits to the planet and to your pocket book. The energy from the sun is free and unregulated, requires little maintenance and can last a lifetime, making it a lot cheaper than traditional energy sources. As demands for energy and resources increase, solar energy solutions are getting more and more affordable upfront, too. What was once a luxury is now commonplace. Plus, when you calculate your cost savings over time, using solar power is a no brainer. But before you hop in your car and rush to your nearby solar solutions headquarters, there are a couple of things you should know about your home’s energy system and the basics of efficiency. Unfortunately, most homes, whether old or new, are not built with efficiency in mind. That means more energy expended and larger bills for you. Paying for and installing a solar electric system in a home that isn’t energy efficient would be a large, impractical expense if it had to meet such high energy demands. Some simple ways to ensure your home is up to standards is to add insulation and seal the outer walls and windows. Replace all the light bulbs in your home with the most energy efficient ones on the market (they last longer too!) and always remember to turn off lights when they’re not being used. You can even install motion sensor switches that automatically turn off lights when there’s no one in the room. If you can afford it, upgrade to Energy Star

There are a couple of different types of solar systems and it’s important to choose the one that’s right for your home or business. rated appliances, hot water heaters, electronics and heating and cooling systems. Ways solar power is used There are different ways to harness the sun’s rays and make them work for you. Passive solar design takes advantage of a building’s site, climate and materials to minimize energy use without mechanical systems. This means doing things like installing glazed windows, building overhangs and orienting your home to the sun. If you’re remodeling or building a new home, consult with a home energy specialist to find the most cost effective ways to design an energy efficient space. Solar thermal is the use of the sun’s radiation to heat water and dramatically reduce your water heating bills. These heating systems use relatively simple technology – usually a storage tank and a water collector. Active systems have forced circulating pumps and controls, while passive systems do not. You may require a back up water heating system for cloudy days and increased demand. Solar electric, sometimes called photovoltaic, involve utilizing the photons in sunlight to generate electricity through solar panels. Solar panels are generally located on the roof of a home, but can be installed other places on a property with a high concentration of sunlight. There are a couple of different types of solar systems and it’s important to choose the one that’s right for your home or business. The grid-tied system is the

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most common and most affordable of residential solar systems. This system allows you to use your own solar generated electricity, but at times when your system isn’t producing electricity, such as at night, electricity is generated from the utility company’s network of power stations. Not only will you benefit from the network, but the excess energy produced by your solar system can also be fed back into the grid through a process called net metering. This feature is available in most areas and measures what you take and what you give back. Another kind of solar system is a stand-alone photovoltaic power system, or an off-grid system. These operate independently of the utility grid and are generally meant to supply all the energy in the home. This is a much more expensive option to install, but are perfect for homes in remote areas without utility service. Where to start In the beginning, you’ll want a respected solar company in your area to conduct a site visit to your home. Most companies will provide free assessments and cost estimates so you can compare different companies and your different solar options. Look for a team with at least one renewable energy professional who is certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. A good solar professional can help you figure out exactly what you need, if and how your home is compatible with their solar electric systems and whether these systems will meet all your energy needs. The team should be able to walk you through the process of sizing, determining the amount of electricity your system will generate and help you determine whether you want a grid-tied or off-grid system. Remember, these systems can seem pricey at first, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial costs. Check out the U.S. Department of Energy’s database of state incentives for renewables and efficiency Web site for incentives in your area.

DAYNAMER

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

Merced Sun-Star, Merced, Calif.

Saturday, March 2, 2013 23

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HOW TO GUIDE 2013

How

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION HELPS OUR ENVIRONMENT

 A bus is twice as efﬁcient as an automobile for every passenger mile traveled

Important Points... • Walk or Bike. No bus or train station near your house? Walk or bike to the nearest public transportation hub to help the environment and burn some calories. • Contribute. Public transportation contributes to your city or town’s green technology and job growth. • Keep it Local. If Americans used public transportation for a mere 10 percent of their trips, the U.S. could reduce its foreign oil dependency by up to 40 percent. • Save Some Cash. According to the American Public Transportation Association, those who use public transport can save an average of $764 per month or about $9,167 annually (based on the national gas average and monthly reserved parking spots).

When thinking of the various ways you can clean up your environmental act, there’s one easy alteration you can make. Switching from driving your car to taking public transportation can play a significant role in cutting greenhouse gasses and improving quality of life over time. It offers an immediate alternative for those seeking to reduce their energy use, far exceeding the combined benefits of switching to energy-efficient light bulbs, weatherizing your home and replacing old appliances. Using public transportation not only effects the environment directly, it does so immediately. Air quality and traffic congestion improve dramatically with fewer cars on the road. The more popular public transit gets, the more long-term investments will be made into its improvement and expansion. Riding the bus may not be your idea of “improving quality of life,” but read on and you may just change your mind! Public transportation in the United States may not be quite as advanced as some other countries, but increased investment is already on the table in many major cities. Realistically, no one wants to give up the freedom and convenience of driving their car. You may even think, “what’s one more car on the road?” However, individual transportation contributes to about 28 percent of total carbon emissions in the U.S! Public transportation, on the other hand, saves up to 37 million metric tons of carbon dioxide annually. That’s the equivalent of the emissions from electricity generated for 4.9 million households. That equals every household in Washington D.C., New York City, Atlanta, Denver, and Los Angeles combined. That’s an overwhelming number, but that’s why it’s important to look at the numbers. For instance, when just one person takes public transportation for a 20-mile round-trip commute, his or her carbon emissions will decrease by 4,800 pounds per year. That’s equal to a 10 percent reduction in a two-car household’s carbon footprint. If that’s not reason enough to make the switch, letting someone else drive your commute everyday could seriously improve your mood.

Thousands of gallons of oil spill each year, resulting in widespread effects throughout the ecosystem that are impossible to remedy. Pollution from oil drilling has also been linked to instances of cancer and land demolition, affecting many people’s lives and homes.

Using public transportation not only effects the environment directly, it does so immediately. Read a book or get extra work done instead of fuming in traffic twice a day. Reasons to switch How bad is carbon? Carbon is one of the greenhouse gasses that helps regulate radiation in the atmosphere, but many scientists think too much carbon may lead to elevated temperatures and less oxygen in the oceans. Trees naturally control the amount of carbon in the air by absorbing and using it, but an overproduction of carbon, plus massive deforestation in many countries interferes with this function. Even public transportation agencies are constantly looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. Some are investing in environmentally friendly vehicles such as diesel electric hybrids, which are 40 percent more fuel efficient than conventional diesel buses. Other innovative investments include installing solar technology and constructing facilities that meet the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environment and Environmental Design (LEED) standards. There are other reasons to give up your car. Gas prices are as high as ever and every penny you’re spending on gas, you’re not spending in your local economy. Public transportation saves the U.S. the equivalent of 4.2 billion gallons of gasoline annually and saves the equivalent of 900,000 automobile fill-ups every day. Oil extraction and use alone can be devastating for the environment. Noise pollution from seismic waves sent into the ground to seek out oil reserves can cause whales and dolphins to strand themselves ashore.

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Daily impact Most people are aware of the detrimental consequences of emissions and oil drilling, but what about the daily impact that driving has on our lives? Our land and infrastructure resources and design are directly related to how we move people and goods. Public transit allows more people to live in denser neighborhoods, thus preserving land and decreasing traffic congestion. Public transit also decreases the need for parking lots, roadways and driveways. Even on a smaller scale in suburban areas, public transit can help spur redevelopment around town centers or central shopping districts to conserve resources and promote local spending. Transit-oriented development generally is planned to use smart land strategies to create dense, walkable neighborhoods that require less driving. Air quality is definitely an issue that impacts us on a daily basis. When a car engine runs, there are several different types of particles emitted that can have detrimental effects. Hydrocarbons, some of which are known carcinogens, consist of nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides and tiny particles of solids, such as metal and soot. Emissions also create smog including ozone and other aforementioned goodies. This stuff hangs out in the atmosphere and causes many long-term effects on human health and happiness. Particulates can aggravate symptoms of asthma or trigger attacks. Smog is also harmful to elderly who suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart disease, emphysema, bronchitis or hardened arteries. Nitrogen oxide can reduce resistance to infections and can induce heart and lung problems. Ozone and peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN) causes coughing, eye irritation and respiratory problems.

DAYNAMER

Merced Sun-Star, Merced, Calif.

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

Saturday, March 2, 2013 25

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HOW TO GUIDE 2013

How to

cURE VaRIcOSE VEINS

 Research each of your treatment options thoroughly to choose the one that’s right for you.

Important Points... • See a Specialist. If your problem is far enough along, you may need to see a vascular or dermatologic surgeon. He or she will examine your legs and may order an ultrasound to get a more complete picture. • Don’t Ignore the Problem. If you’re feeling any pain or discomfort, make an appointment today. The circulation in your legs could be compromised. • Take Care of Your Legs. Most varicose veins appear in the legs because of pressure from increased body weight, the force of gravity and the task of carrying blood from the bottom of the body up to the heart. • Wear Sunscreen. as if you needed another reason to protect yourself from the sun! Ultraviolet rays weaken and inﬂame the epidermis, exacerbating varicose veins. • Make Lifestyle Changes. Even after treatment, varicose veins can come back if you aren’t careful. Take care of yourself and follow the doctor’s orders.

As we age, there are all sorts of fun things to look forward too. Buying a home, raising a family, becoming more stable and confident are a few. Varicose veins, also more likely as we age, are not fun, but there are some things you can do to treat them or rid yourself of them altogether. If you’re not sure what varicose veins are, chances are you don’t suffer from them. They are large, swollen blood vessels, usually in the legs, that become raised and twist and turn. They are red or purple in color and can be intensely painful. Varicose veins are not to be confused with spider veins, red, purple and blue vessels that are easily visible, but do not pop out. These are most common on the legs and face. There are a number of factors that can cause varicose veins, including: • Heredity • Obesity • Standing frequently with no break • Hormonal influences, such as puberty, pregnancy and menopause • Birth control pills • A history of blood clots • Trauma or injury to the skin • Previous vein surgery • Exposure to ultraviolet rays These veins are more common for women than men and increase in frequency with age. An estimated 30 to 60 percent of adults suffer from varicose or spider veins. Symptoms and treatment options Most of the time, these veins remain painless, albeit unsightly. However, some patients describe aching or cramping in the legs. Other common symptoms include fatigue, restlessness, burning, throbbing, tingling or heaviness in the legs. In women, symptoms may be exacerbated during certain parts of the menstrual cycle or during pregnancy. Major swelling, deep sores or increased pigmentation may also develop on the skin, especially on or around the ankles. Occasionally, varicose veins can form a painful blood clot within the vein called thrombophlebitis. Small lifestyle changes like good skin hygiene, weight loss and regular exercise

Small lifestyle changes like good skin hygiene, weight loss and regular exercise can help treat varicose veins, especially after pregnancy-induced veins pop up. can help treat varicose veins, especially after pregnancy-induced veins pop up. Exercising at least 30 minutes daily helps increase circulation and keeps your weight down to a manageable level. When you’re relaxing at home, elevate your feet and legs as much as possible. If you find yourself sitting a lot for work or leisure, try not to cross your legs or ankles. For those who stand for long periods without taking a break, find time to sit and stretch throughout the day, even if only for a minute or two. If you’re overweight, talk to your health care provider about a safe weight-loss strategy. Low-impact exercises such as swimming or water aerobics are a good choice. Support stockings are an easy, affordable approach to treating varicose veins, especially when they are causing pain or discomfort. Graduated compression stockings are twice as thick as normal pantyhose and are available at medical supply stores and your local pharmacy. Make sure they’re tight at the ankle and get slightly looser as they go up the leg, making it easier for the blood to flow back up toward your heart. This will help prevent swelling and may keep your varicose veins from getting worse. Put on your stockings right after you get out of bed in the morning and keep them on all day. They may be uncomfortable, especially in hot weather, but varicose veins are worse! Sclerotherapy is a time-tested procedure that’s been available since the 1930s.

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A highly concentrated saline solution or special detergent is injected directly into the vein, irritating the lining of the vessel, causing the blood to clot. Over the span of three to six weeks, the vessel turns to scar tissue and gradually fades. The procedure can be performed in an outpatient setting and is relatively inexpensive, making it a viable option for many. Endovenous laser treatment uses a small laser fiber to penetrate the vein. Pulses of laser light are delivered inside the vein, causing the vein to collapse. This procedure is done as an outpatient under local anesthesia. Surface laser and intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments use heat energy to selectively damage or destroy abnormal veins. There are no needle or sclerosing solutions required, but there may be some discomfort. Side effects may include skin discoloration or staining and blister formation. With radiofrequency occlusion, a small catheter is inserted into the vein. Through this mechanism, radiofrequency energy is delivered to the vein wall, causing it to collapse and seal shut. This procedure can be done in an in-office or outpatient setting and may be done under local anesthesia. Surgery techniques include ligation (tying off of a vein) and stripping (removal of a long segment of vein). Another surgical technique is ambulatory phlebectomy, an outpatient procedure that removes superficial veins through small, slit-like incisions that don’t require stitches. This may be performed using local, spinal, or general anesthesia. Do what’s right for you Not all patients need treatment for their varicose veins or spider veins. For those not experiencing pain or other symptoms, no treatment is necessary. Most people want varicose veins removed strictly for aesthetic reasons, which is great, but most insurers won’t cover removal procedures unless your doctor deems the veins potentially hazardous to your health. Check with your insurance company before you make any appointments, as treatments can be expensive.

DAYNAMER

Merced Sun-Star, Merced, Calif.

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

Saturday, March 2, 2013 27

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HOW TO GUIDE 2013

How to

shoP local

 Where we shop, where we eat, where we have fun – it all makes our community home.

Important Points... • Everything Counts. Even if you’re on a budget, try to support at least one local business a week. This could be something as small as buying a cookie from the bakery down the street. • Keep Workers Happy. locally owned business are known for hiring people with speciﬁc product knowledge for a better customer service experience. People who are more invested in their jobs tend to be happier overall. • Get Valued. local businesses have a much higher stake in treating you right. They depend on referrals and customer loyalty, so it’s in their best interest to keep you happy. • Invest in Your Community. When you buy local, the chances that those dollars are recycled back in to the community are huge. That means more money given back to charities, schools, parks and libraries. • Encourage Growth. Rather than contracting out to other large companies, locally run businesses often support other local establishments. That’s called spreading the wealth – literally!

The years following the advent of the Internet have come with endless ways to make life easier. In the time it takes to laboriously write a correspondence and send it, we can shoot off 10 emails and brew a cup of coffee. Today, you can buy a pair of shoes and 20 pounds of dog food all from one Web site, in less time than it takes to tie your sneakers. But more stuff in less time is not necessarily better. A lot has been lost in this shift in consumerism. A community’s local flavor and diversity is embodied in its nearby businesses and locally sourced wares. The businesses in your community, from the real estate agent down the street to the coffee shop on the corner, build strong neighborhoods by sustaining community, linking neighbors and contributing more to central causes. These businesses are a reflection of the people who live there and play a huge factor in overall lifestyle satisfaction and property values. The home in close proximity to quaint shopping and food options is the home everyone wants to live in. Now replace those locally owned boutiques with a chain store or worse, a parking lot, and think of the inherent loss. Shops with a local stake are also more likely to cater to the specific needs of a community, spending more time to get to know the people who live there and taking special interest in their needs. When you take this homegrown flavor away, quality of life changes in ways that are slow and difficult to measure, and therefore are mostly ignored completely. So step away from your laptop and learn a couple of easy ways to keep strengthening your community, one latte at a time. Keep your cash local According to the350project.net, for every $100 spent in independently owned stores, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll and other expenditures. If you spend that in a national chain, only $43 stay in the community. Spend it online, and there’s absolutely no return on investment. Except for that cute pair of oxfords that was just delivered.

It goes without saying that buying a book at a local bookshop is better than clicking “buy now” on your computer screen. More money is kept in the community when you shop locally owned rather than nationally owned because locally owned shops tend to purchase from other local businesses. Big box retailers are definitely getting their merchandise shipped in from all over, namely from China and Mexico. The more you keep business condensed to one place, the more the community flourishes financially. The bottom line is, to keep those unique businesses you love open, you have to support them with your dollars. It’s often thought that opening big box stores offer towns and cities economic growth and tax revenues, but further investigation suggests otherwise. Big retailers actually offer fewer jobs and increased infrastructure demands. Some studies show that instead of creating new revenue, big box stores simply shift dollars away from locally owned businesses, sometimes as much as 84 percent of sales. Shopping locally also lets you get to know where your money is going. Get to know the people or the families that run the shops in your area. You’ll feel better about buying when you know whose pockets you’re filling – big business or your neighbors? It goes without saying that buying a book at a local bookshop is better than clicking “buy now” on your computer screen. Shopping locally creates jobs and support entrepreneurs. The more you support them, the more they can broaden their range of products and services to hire even more people.

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Environmental impact Choosing local may mean choosing greener. Many products sold at locally owned establishments are also sourced locally. Less shipping miles means less carbon, pollution and traffic congestion on the highways. Smaller specialty shops are generally located in clusters, providing a centralized area where people are encouraged to walk and peruse, rather than drive several miles out of the way to malls and big box stores. This can mean less sprawl, congestion, habitat loss and pollution. Frequent the café in walking distance to your house, rather than taking a trip to the chain store drivethrough. It’s not realistic to say you’ll never go to the mall again, but studies show that even a 15 percent shift in buying habits can make a huge different. Maybe choose one day a week to run all your errands at once to cut down on time and gas money. Better yet, ride your bike to the local farmers market to get a workout and support the local food economy. Your pocket book and your body will thank you for it. Get local, get happy An ever-growing body of economic research shows that in increasingly homogenized communities, entrepreneurs and skilled workers are more likely to invest and settle where their unique businesses and character will be preserved. Independent, local businesses tend to employ a wide range of supporting services, hiring resident contractors, artists, designers, accountants and more, as opposed to outsourcing or hiring from within. That means more jobs for community members and local producers. Shopping this way may seem more expensive at first, but a marketplace of small businesses is the best way to promote innovation and low prices over time. Many businesses that select products based on their own interests and the needs of the local consumer guarantee a broader range of product choices so you have a greater variety to choose from.

DAYNAMER

Merced Sun-Star, Merced, Calif.

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

Saturday, March 2, 2013 29

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DAYNAMER

00137642

Men, Women and Kids

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

How to

fInd a job

 If you’re not getting rejected, you’re not putting yourself out there enough.

Important Points... • Dress for Success. Even if you know the company’s dress code consists of jeans and cowboy hats, dress appropriately for your interview. That means business attire, not your nicest pair of jeans. • Change Your Mindset. Initially, you may not land the job of your dreams, but stay open to new and different opportunities. You never know where they might lead. • Clean up Your Image. It’s common these days for employers to check out the social media sights of their prospective hires. Make sure your facebook proﬁle picture is appropriate and privatize your settings accordingly. • Get Energized. Looking for a job can be frustrating, but make a game of it. People are drawn to those with a ton of positive energy, so put your best face forward! • Volunteer. believe it or not, volunteered or unpaid positions can lead to employment. While you’re job hunting, take a part-time gig with a company or organization you love.

The job hunt is a personal journey, to be sure. Maybe you’re in the midst of a career change, re-entering the market after a long absence, or simply looking for a lateral move to a new company. Whatever the reason, everyone can use a hint or two along the way. Before you even think about hitting the virtual job boards, there are a couple of important details to take care of. As you begin your hunt, take a moment to be honest with yourself. The first lesson of branding is identifying a niche. That means playing up your strong suits to tell the most compelling story. Make sure you’ve identified approximately the job you want and do a little research about common qualifications and the pay range for your level of experience in that particular field. Tell a compelling story The story you tell should highlight the attributes that coincide with the job you’re aiming for. For instance, if you’re trying to land a position in finance, emphasize the fact that you took care of the books at your last job – even if it was at a bakery. Of course, lying or even stretching the truth is never a good idea on a resume or during the interview process. It will come back to haunt you later. However, strategically placing your strongest features where they can be seen is crucial. Remember, employers or human resources personnel are likely scanning dozens, if not hundreds, of resumes, so think about how to make their job easier. Your resume is a reflection of your experience, your work ethic and style, and what you can offer. As you update your resume, there are a couple of simple things you can do to make sure you’re making a good impression: • Make sentences active and succinct • Keep formatting as simple and clean as possible; avoid colors or frills • Make sure your name and contact information are prominently displayed • Proofread. Then proofread again. Then give it to your neighbor to proofread.

You may not be able to change your skills and experience, but you can work harder than anyone else at learning speciﬁc details about the company. Most importantly, be yourself! Let your personality and strengths shine through. The most important part about finding a job is finding the right fit, so don’t try to be someone you’re not. Commense the search There’s more than one way to look for a job. The most convenient way is to hunker down with a big cup of coffee and a computer. Modern day hunts are mostly done online via job search engines and digital help wanted ads. More than that, the Internet offers a sea of information about potential employers. Pick some companies that interest you and search their employment listings for positions you may qualify for. Some people are better in person than they are on paper. If you want to show off your conversational skills or just feel more like your best self in social situations, networking could be for you. There are several meet-ups for professionals of all kinds, plus events like job fairs. Networking could be as simple as attending happy hours in the financial district or talking up your local barista. Or, make a list of friends and family who might be able to recommend an opening. You never know what’s out there until you ask. For those who wish to leverage the expertise of professional, headhunters, search firms and employment agencies are more than happy to help. Most headhunters get

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paid with each match they make, so it’s in their best interest to find you a job you’ll do well in. Most agencies also offer search advice and resume writing and editing help. As you’re zipping your resume off to dozens of companies and headhunting firms, be sure to stay organized. Keep a list or a spreadsheet cataloging each job you’ve applied for, when, what you sent them, and any follow-up details. Searching for the right position can be tedious. You will write enough cover letters to fill a truck bed. However, treat your search like a full-time job. Give it the same attention and care you would if you were already getting paid and your efforts will speak for themselves! Get ready for the interview In terms of research, you can never be too prepared for an interview. You may not be able to change your skills and experience, but you can work harder than anyone else at learning specific details about the company. Become familiar with the history of the company, specifically within the context of the position you’re applying for. If it’s a marketing position you’re after, study their print and online collateral. If it’s a retail company you long to work for, visit their store and observe their customers. Speak with existing employees about their experience, the expectations for the position and the company as a whole. Be blunt – ask them how long the position has been open and what your chances are at landing it. When you’re finally in the hot seat, don’t let your nerves get the better of you. Rather than completely winging it, come up with a personal statement or elevator pitch. This will most likely be your response to the question, “tell me a little bit about your background.” In two minutes or less, you should be able to vocalize your professional background, accomplishments and goals. Use your pitch during interviews and for networking, where an even shorter version can come in handy.

DAYNAMER

Merced Sun-Star, Merced, Calif.

HOW TO GUIDE 2013

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32 Saturday, March 2, 2013

HOW TO 2013

Merced Sun-Star, Merced, Calif.

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