How To by The Times

HOW TO Sunday, June 21, 2015

IN THIS ISSUE: Choose a Credit Union Purchase a Hearing Aid Choose a Veterinarian Choose a Employment Service Diagnose Restless Leg Syndrome Promote your Local Business

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HOW TO

The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, June 21, 2015

TABLE OF CONTENTS Choose a Credit Union ....................................... pg 3 How to Buy a Hearing Aid .................................. pg 4 Choose a Veterinarian ........................................ pg 6 Choose a Employment Service ............................. pg 8 Choose a Insurance Agent ................................ pg 10 Diagnose Restless Leg Syndrome ........................ pg 12 Promote your Local Business .............................. pg 14

The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, June 21, 2015

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CHOOSE A CREDIT UNION WHAT IS A CREDIT UNION? credit union is a cooperative financial institution, owned and controlled by its members – the people who use its services. Credit unions serve groups that share something in common, such as where they work, live, or go to church. They are not-for-profit, and exist to provide a safe, convenient place for members to save money and obtain loans at reasonable rates.

on their investments. Because a credit union is a not-forprofit entity that is owned and controlled by its members, proponents convey that earnings are returned to those who belong in the form of higher savings rates, lower loan rates, fewer fees, and expanded services.

Credit unions also give members a voice. Members vote for a board of directors from the general memberCredit unions, like other financial ship. Directors serve on a voluntary institutions, are closely regulated. An basis and hire a chief executive ofagency of the federal government ficer, who in turn hires staff to mancalled the National Credit Union age the credit union. All members reAdministration (NCUA) insures ceive information on the state of the credit union deposit accounts up to credit union, generally in the form $250,000. U.S. credit unions have a of newsletters and other periodicals, flexible, highly organized coopera- such as the credit union’s annual retive network – the Credit Union Sys- port. tem. The system works at the local, state, and national level. There are FOUR WAYS TO FIND A over 7,500 credit unions throughout CREDIT UNION the country serving over 80 million Credit unions are open to everyone, members. Here in Georgia, over 130 but the law places some limits on financial cooperatives serve more the people they may serve. A credit than 1,000,000 members. Founded union’s charter defines its “field of on a philosophy of service, credit membership,” which could be an unions adhere to the pledge of “Peo- employer, church, school, or comple Helping People.” munity. Anyone who lives or works in a community, for example, is eliCREDIT UNIONS VS. BANKS gible to join a community-chartered What makes a credit union different credit union. from a bank or savings & loan? Like credit unions, these financial institu- If you don’t currently belong to a tions accept deposits and make loans credit union, here are some easy ways – but unlike credit unions, they are to find one to join: in business to make a profit. Banks and savings & loans are owned by 1. Visit ASmarterChoice.org or use groups of stockholders whose inter- the Research a Credit Union Tool ests include earning a healthy return at NCUA.org to search for credit

unions in your area. 2. Ask your family. One in three Americans belong to a credit union. Chances are you have a family member who uses credit union services. And most credit unions allow members’ families to join. 3. Quiz your friends and neighbors. Many credit unions have a “community” field of membership, serving a region defined by geography rather than by employment or some other association. Ask friends in the community if they know of a credit union you may join. 4. Contact Georgia Credit Union Affiliates. Dial (800)768-4282 or visit www.gcua.org to check their online database of credit unions in Georgia.

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The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, June 21, 2015

BUY A HEARING AID

hile hearing loss can make a person feel closed off from the rest of the world, a hearing aid can help open that world back up again. Because there is more to learning to hear again than just buying hearing aids, the process should never be reduced to that of a retail purchase. Your audiologist can help you understand your hearing loss characteristics and explain models that would best to meet your needs. Hearing aids enhance an individual’s existing ability to hear. They work using a microphone, amplifier and speaker. As the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) advises, hearing aids will not assist a person who has no ability to hear. Hearing aids cannot restore your hearing to normal. For most people, new technology helps improve the ability to hear and understand speech. Sorting through the options There are many different types of hearing aids. According to the American Hearing Aid Associates (AHAA), older technology analog circuitry has limited capability of sound processing. Typically they are limited to basic volume control adjustments. Newer digital technology offers many advantages over analog. Most of these models offer multi-channel, multi-band adjustment, noise level adjustments, just to mention a few of the advantages. These controls allow high quality, fidelity sound that can be programmed to each person’s hearing loss. Digital hearing aids are separated into two separate types. Entry-level digital aids utilizing digital circuitry are programmable and allow for basic adjustments. Some include programs for different environments requiring you to push a button to change from one program to another. The advanced digital aids allow for specific fine-tuning, have noise reduction features, automatic adjustments as you go from quiet to noise, memory, and user preference learning. Digital hearing aids offer compact disc player sound quality. According to Dr. Terese Huber, Audi-

ologist, the size, style, and technology of hearing aids is based on your hearing loss and listening needs, not on cosmetics. With the newer technology hearing instruments are nearly invisible, much smaller than those available 5 to 10 years ago. Talk to an expert The first step in buying hearing aids is an evaluation by a hearing healthcare professional. Georgia law requires an ongoing relationship between the licensed hearing professional and the person with hearing loss. Audiologists have either a Doctorate or Master’s degree. They are professionally licensed hearing healthcare providers. Licensure in Georgia is by the State Board of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. Audiologist work in hospitals, with physicians, and in private practice. Audiologists evaluate hearing, sell hearing aids, and are qualified to provide additional services to make your journey to better hearing an ongoing success. Hearing Aid Dispensers are also licensed to sell hearing aids. They work for licensed hearing aid dealers, or audiologists. Dispensers are limited to hearing testing for the fitting of hearing aids. Dealers and Dispensers are licensed by the Georgia State Board of Hearing Aid Dealers and Dispensers. Licensure for both of these professionals requires continuing education which is important in a field such as this where technology is constantly changing. For a quality, premium hearing aid, based on the latest survey, cost is typically around $2,500.00 to $3,000.00 each. Basic level digital technology hearing aids begin at approximately $1,100.00 abd advanced digital technology aids begin around $1,900.00 each. Economy level is also available. By being an educated shopper you can save thousands of dollars and get a high quality hearing aid. Some dispensers also charge for the hearing examination. Most states, including Georgia, have adopted a thirty day trial period which means after

30 days you can return the hearing aids for a refund if you are not satisfied. Most dispensers charge from between $300$500 if a refund is requested; this covers the evaluation time, programming time, counseling, and expertise. Also ask if the hearing aids come with a warranty and if so, what does that warranty cover. Can additional warranties be purchased and if so, how much? Cost of repairing the hearing aids is also an issue. Average cost of repairing an out-ofwarranty hearing aid and adding another year warranty can range between $300$500, and also the inconvenience of being without your hearing aid for up to a couple of weeks. Typically the hearing aid would be sent back to the manufacturer that is out of state, taking time and increasing the cost of repair. The FTC recommends that you have a clear understanding of a purchase agreement and all that it entails. You should know if the warranty is honored by the dispenser or the manufacturer, what services are provided free of charge and how long they will be provided. The FTC monitors the business practices of hearing aid vendors and sellers. It can take action against stores that mislead and deceive consumers. If you feel that you have been deceived by a store, contact the FTC to register a complaint. The FTC also recommends checking with consumer protection agencies. Hearing aids can bring back the world to people who have lost their hearing. Don’t be left out of the joy of hearing. By being an educated consumer you can get a hearing aid that brings you the joy of hearing that also fits your budget!! The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) enforces regulations that deal specifically with the manufacture and sale of hearing aids. FDA has specific guidelines requiring an instruction book and the information it contains which includes a statement that the use of a hearing aid may be only part of a rehabilitative program.

The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, June 21, 2015

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The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, June 21, 2015

CHOOSE A VETERINARIAN

n today’s society, pets are generally considered to be members of the family. As such, they should be provided with the excellent health care that any member of your family deserves. Many people neglect to bring their pets to a local veterinarian due to cost concerns. These people tend to believe that it is simply not financially wise or necessary to provide their animals with regular health care. However, by ensuring that your pet has regular check-ups from an experienced animal professional, you can add years to your pet’s life and improve upon its happiness. You should never wait until your pet is sick to provide it with the health care that it needs. Many animal diseases can be prevented with regular check-ups, saving you time and money in the long run. Visits to the veterinarian will boost your pet’s health, allowing it to lead a happier, more vigorous life. The process of searching for a veterinarian can seem intimidating. However, so long as you adhere to the following guidelines, you can easily locate an animal health care professional that will provide your pet with the services that it needs in order to lead a long, healthy life. When searching for a veterinarian, you should first ask for references from your friends and family. The best way to receive an accurate impression of a vet’s quality of work is by speaking with his or her past clients. A veterinarian’s references should assert that he or she is professional, timely, honest and compassionate. The Internet is also an excellent source of information regarding the

quality of a specific animal health care professional. Search for reviews from past clients, and check the business’s reputation with the Better Business Bureau. After you have narrowed down your choices, feel free to visit the veterinarian’s office in order to receive a personal impression of the professional’s values. The office should be scrupulously clean, and all employees should be friendly and welcoming. You should observe the interactions

between the office’s staff and the animals that are present. If a large number of pets seem excessively stressed or anxious about their visit, this could be a warning sign that the vet is not as gentle or careful as he or she should be. You can even chat with the other clients that are present. Ask them about their past experiences with this particular veterinarian. Most clients would be happy to share their stories or recommendations with you.

The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, June 21, 2015

Veterinarians Serving Northeast Georgia Since 1967

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YOUR TRUSTED HOMETOWN VETERINARY CLINIC Animal Medical Care (AMC) has one of the newest and largest facilities in Northeast Georgia. Since opening in 1967 our clinic has continued to grow to meet the demands of our community. Dr. Denise Funk joined the practice in 1996, and Dr. Potter in 2001. In 2003 we completed construction and moved into our current facility. We have made it our priority to invest in modern equipment that provides us with information we need to make informed decisions about the health and medical needs of our clients’ pets. We are committed to continual advancement in clinical and surgical techniques to provide the most advanced and cutting-edge technology toward the care of your pet.

SERVICE WITH A SMILE

GENTLE, CARING, & COMPASSIONATE

We are truly thankful for our clients. We are proud of the relationships that we have developed over the years and look forward to building new relationships with new clients. Being a part of Gainesville for over 40 years has rewarded us with many wonderful friendships and memories. Our mission is to provide the very best medical care for your pet, using the most advanced techniques and equipment with a personal and caring touch. We are dedicated to providing excellent medicine and first-rate service.

Our sincerest thanks to Dr.Sundstrom for his years of service to the town’s pets. We are looking forward to carrying on his vision at AMC following his retirement!

KNOWLEDGE YOU CAN TRUST, EXPERIENCE YOU CAN DEPEND ON

Adding years to life...and life to years

770-532-1217 •vetamc.com

M, W & F: 8am - 6pm T & Th : 8am - 7pm • Sat : 8am - 1pm 984 Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville, GA

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The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, June 21, 2015

CHOOSE AN EMPLOYMENT SERVICE

ecause the economy is in the process of recovering, there are numerous individuals who are attempting to find employment. Some individuals are finding the process difficult as they do not have the required education or experience. Employment services can bridge the gap and help in finding jobs. As payment, the clients pay the service a certain dollar amount in order to find employment that they are qualified for. It is difficult to obtain a job but just as challenging to find a service through which you can find employment. The first feature to examine when choosing a service is how successful different agencies have previously been in finding jobs for previous clients. It is also essential to obtain information regarding each individual agent’s experience as well the age of the agency. You also want to check to see whether the agency provides training that would aid in the finding of a job. Some agencies will offer clients vocational training that is free of charge so as to provide clients with a greater likelihood of finding employment. These additional skills will provide the client with resources that will help in obtaining a job and can also be helpful in the practice of a particular job or career as well as qualification for future promotions. Although some services provide training without additional cost, other agencies

will require that you pay a fee in or- Some agencies do not focus on a der to cover the costs of the training. particular skill set, but it is importan to make sure that they have had sucMany employment agencies have cess with your interests in the past. one or two vocations as a specialty, and you want to make sure that Be aware of what the employment your particular interests fall within service is expecting of you as their this realm so that the service will be client. Some have terms of service able to provide you the most benefit. that are not overly beneficial to the Agencies exist that aid clients in find- client, so you want to dismiss any ing jobs in fields such as finance, ad- agency that does not have your best ministrative assisting and health care interests in mind. as well as other professions. You want to find a service that is These specializations are important there with you until you find a stable to consider because if you are look- job — or hire a stable employee — ing to become a health care profes- and not one that only stays with you sional, you do not want to employ an for six months because that is how agency to specialize in finance. In the long the contract is for. same vein, if your specialty is as an executive of a large firm, you don’t Finding a legitimate employment want to be stuck with a service that service should not be overly difficult, can only get you a job in the medical but you should still take your time field. when trying to find the right one for you.

The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, June 21, 2015

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The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, June 21, 2015

CHOOSE AN INSURANCE AGENT

Insurance agents and brokers can streamline your insurance purchases and become your ally if you run into insurance problems down the road. The terms “agent’’ and “broker’’ are often used interchangeably, but is there a difference? Technically, an agent sells insurance from one insurance company, while brokers represent many carriers. An “independent agent’’ is unaffiliated with any particular insurer and represents a range of companies. Getting Started Do your homework before you set foot inside an insurance agency. First, identify what you want in auto, health, home, life, business and other insurance products. Write it down. This list of features becomes the summary plan that you will give to agents and brokers in exchange for price quotes. When you are in the shoppingaround stage, you can go online to get price quotes and ballpark figures for useful comparative rates. It helps to know what costs you are facing. The Right Agency Look for strong service reputations and seek out testimonials from other satisfied customers. Use any contact you have in the insurance business to find out what agents are considered the most helpful. Ask how long the agency has been in business and what insurers it works with. Longstanding agencies have clout with insurers and they can be your advocate if you face a claims problem. Don’t be shy about asking for references – and following up on them. Work with insurers that are finan-

cially stable. Rating services such as Standard & Poors and A.M. Best rank insurance companies based on financial stability and performance, and good brokers will discuss with you the financial status of the insurers they work with. Often, one agency can handle all of your insurance business. According to the Better Business Bureau, one way to save money is to insure all your automobiles with the same company or agent and to buy your homeowner’s policy or other insurance policies from the same source. Multi-policy discounts are common. Ask about long-term holder discounts. also, ask what other services the broker offers and at what costs. Alternately, you can shop around based purely on price comparisons. if you treat insurance just as a commodity, brokers might not appreciate it, but you have the right to shop until you are satisfied. However, watch out for low-ball quotes. Here are some words to know while shopping for insurance: • Conditions: Explanations in the policy of you and your agent’s responsibilities. For example, how claims are to be filed and what proofs you must submit with your claim. • Coverage: Description in the policy of specific circumstances in which you can receive benefits. • Deductible: The amount of a loss or claim you must pay before you can collect. • Premium: The cost of the insurance policy.

ratings, especially in car insurance. The rating is the process by which the price of your insurance coverage is determined. States are divided into rating territories. Your insurance agent, in the case of car insurance, bases part of the price of your policy on the claims history of all the drivers it insures in your territory. Often, there are discounts related to age and household or marital status.

One way to save money is to insure all your automobiles with the same company or agent and to buy your homeowner’s policy or other insurance policies from the same source. Multi-policy discounts are common.

Get Smart According to a recent survey commissioned by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, 67 percent of Americans feel they have about the right amount of insurance coverage, although only 28 percent say they understand the details of the coverage “very well.’’ Your state’s department of insurance can provide rate guides for both auto and homeowner’s insurance, which can help consumers shop wisely for the insurRatings Are Important It’s also important to understand the ance they need.

The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, June 21, 2015

· Auto · Condo · Renter’s · Flood

· Umbrella · Business · Life · Homeowners - Liability · RV · Motorcycle - Workers Comp · ATV · Watercraft

4209 Oakwood Road, Ste 11, Oakwood, GA 30566

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The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, June 21, 2015

DIAGNOSE RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME

o you find yourself unable to Some common changes that help sit still to watch your favorite are: evening program, or unable to stay 1.) Avoid caffeine seated during your vacation flight, or 2.) Cut back on alcohol and tobacco not able to fall asleep due to leg dis- 3.) Try moderate exercise comfort or jerking? If so, you may 4.) Try relaxation techniques like be among the 10 million adults in the meditation or yoga United States with Restless Leg Syn- 5.) Have good sleep hygiene drome (RLS). In the past, RLS, was 6.) Do activities that increase mental alertness in the evening called Ekbom’s Syndrome. 7.) Begin and end your day with a What are some of the symptoms massage or muscle stretching that might strongly suggests that this is your problem? The first and fore- If, despite all the above practices, most symptom is experiencing an your symptoms are increasing and unpleasant, creepy crawling, jittery disrupting your life and sleep patsensation in your legs that results in a terns, then referral to a physician who is knowledgeable in the diagnosis and very strong urge to move them. treatment of more advanced RLS is This unpleasant sensation starts at indicated. The physician should be rest and is characteristically relieved able to screen for related neurologic by walking, pacing or at times by sim- problems that could be making your RLS worse and guide you in the more ply stretching or jiggling the legs. advanced treatments that are someThese symptoms, at first, are hard- times necessary to control RLS. ly noted during the day and are felt primarily at night. Often along with these sensations you may find that you have been told that you have “jerks” in your arms or legs while you sleep. The severity of these symptoms may range from annoying and infrequent to distressing and daily. You may also want to question others in your family as RLS runs in families in up to half of sufferers, and researchers have found sites on chromosomes for RLS. What can you do to get relief ? If your symptoms are mild and infrequent, first try some lifestyle changes.

The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, June 21, 2015

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GAINESVILLE NEUROLOGY GROUP, LLC

Over 30 Years of Service to Northeast Georgia Leading Board Certiﬁed Neurologists in Northeast Georgia Since 1979

Michael S. Baugh, M.D., Clinton E. Branch, Jr., M.D., FAAN, Daniel L. Cobb, M.D.

If you need a neurologic evaluation, ask your physician for a referral to Gainesville Neurology Group or call our office at 770-534-7885 for information and appointments.

GAINESVILLE NEUROLOGY GROUP, LLC

• ALL physicians board certiﬁed in Neurology • ALL physicians hold academic appointments at Medical College of Georgia • ALL physicians dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive neurological care • ALL physicians dedicated to the teaching and training of future physicians Since 1979 Gainesville Neurology Group has helped patients in Northeast Georgia with neurologic problems: • Seizures • Parkinson’s Disease • Migraine • Neuropathy

• Dementia • Vertigo • Multiple Sclerosis • Myasthenia Gravis

1240 Jesse Jewell Parkway Suite 400 Gainesville, GA 30501 770-534-1117 │ 770-503-7285 (fax) www.gainesvilleneurology.com

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The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, June 21, 2015

PROMOTE YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS

igital advertising is currently one of the fastest growing advertising solutions on the market. It encompasses a myriad of benefits, features and unique customization facilitating a more precise and targeted strategic advertising plan, allowing businesses to extend their audience reach in conjunction with print advertising opportunities like the upcoming Discover North Georgia, a comprehensive guide to living and playing in North Georgia. Benefits of Digital Advertising: Most digital advertising options prove to be user-friendly and costeffective for both large and small businesses. Another valuable feature is the ability for a business to manage its own ad content by offering a content management component. This means the business has creative autonomy and can control its own content, images and other information on its promo page. A local digital business directory, such as GoNorthGeorgia.com, is an excellent digital advertising option for new or veteran advertisers as it facilitates a one-stop location covering a “blanket” of multiple advertising avenues. Most digital advertising solutions offer an integrated approach to advertising by connecting with a business’s website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social media outlets. What is GoNorthGeorgia.com? GoNorthGeorgia.com is North Georgia’s premier digital local business directory. Businesses that partner with GoNorthGeorgia.com are provided with an individual promotional page or micro-site inside the

data powered by Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and Google Analytics. For example, unique keywords that are descriptive of the business are entered on the content management page that feeds to search engines facilitating higher rankings for the specific promo page based on what potential consumers are typing in to various search engines. When a keyword entered by the business matches keywords typed in a search engine by a prospective consumer, the likelihood that the business will yield higher in the list of webpage results the search engine produces is substantially greater. In a society where businesses seek advertising solutions that provide extended reach to targeted audiences that integrates digital, electronic and social media to capture consumers, businesses proportionately desire solutions that are budget conscious, provide ease of Benefits of GoNorthGeorgia.com: use, allow autonomy of creative conOne of the key benefits of GoNorth- tent, and support real-time analytical Georgia.com is the data tracking and data. Digital advertising almost efanalysis module, which provides fortlessly incorporates each of these businesses with real-time analytic elements and so much more! directory itself. The promotional page offers a diverse selection of options and features similar to an actual website. Some of the key features most packages include are: Promotion of company logo on individual promotional page as well as rotating logo banners throughout the directory, and company contact information featuring location specifics, phone, fax and email information. There is a dedicated area on the business’s promotional page for coupons and promotions, a specific tab to promote company events, a job board and a feedback log where customers can leave testimonials and endorsements. There are a variety of visual options including static photos, slide shows, videos and virtual tours. There is also a product and menu section for businesses to showcase and promote products and/or services.

The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, June 21, 2015

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The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, June 21, 2015