It's Our Business - 2017

A Guide to Choosing Key Products & Services

Sunday, June 25, 2017

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IT'S OUR BUSINESS

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The Courier is seeking nominations for

20

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7 1

15th

anniversary

under FORTY

Help us select 20 Cedar Valley Business Leaders who are under 40 years old!

!

SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017

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NOMINATE SOMEONE YOU FEEL MEETS THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA: • • • •

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SUBMIT YOUR ENTRY BY MAIL, FAX OR ONLINE:

Dedication and success in their vocation A role model in their career Demonstrates leadership in their business/community Active community and volunteer participation

MAIL: 20 Under 40, P.O. Box 540, Waterloo, IA 50704 FAX: Attn: 20 Under 40 Nomination, (319) 234-3297 ONLINE: www.WCFCourier.com/20under40

NOMINATIONS DUE: THURSDAY, July 13, 2017

If you prefer to mail or fax your entry form, please type or print your responses directly on the form. Your essay must be included on a separate sheet. Please be sure to include your address and phone number in the event further information is

TWENTYUNDERFORTY NOMINATION FORM One nominee per form. Please attach a short description of why your nomination meets the criteria of dedication and success in their vocation, is a role model in their career, demonstrates leadership in their business/community and is active with community and volunteer participation.

Nominee: ____________________________ Title: _______________________________ Age: _______ Company: ___________________________________________________________________________ Phone: ______________________________ Fax: _________________________________________ Business Address: ___________________________________________ City: ______________________ State: ____________________ Zip: _____________ Email: ____________________________________ Submitted By: ________________________ Phone: _____________________________ City: _______________________________

Company: _____________________________________ Address: ______________________________________ State: _______________________ Zip: _____________

Winners will be selected by a committee and featured in the November issue of Cedar Valley Business Monthly. A special reception will be held honoring the 20 selected business leaders.

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Choosing the Right Landscaping Company

W

hen you enhance your outdoor living space, you add value to your home. A well-designed and functional outdoor living space will allow you to enjoy your home, both inside and out. When considering hiring a landscape professional, consider the following.

The Company Choose a landscaping company with experience and a history in your area.

There are many selfproclaimed “landscapers” that have limited education

and experience and may be here today and gone tomorrow. We’ve all traveled our neighborhoods and noticed those leaning retaining walls and sinking patios. Anyone can venture into the landscaping industry, but a quality landscaping company employs professionals with education and experience in the field. A quality landscape comes from a quality design so it’s important to make sure you work with a qualified, educated and experienced designer.

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The Landscape Designer Consider the landscape designer’s personality and how well you’ll work with him or her. You will work closely with this designer and it will be an enjoyable process if you can easily work together.

Your designer should be creative and be an effective communicator. He or she needs to both show you your design and be able to explain and answer questions about it in a way that makes sense to you. Ask to see some photos of projects that he or she has designed and had installed. Don’t be afraid to ask for referrals. A good designer employed by a good company will likely have a client or two that are willing to take time to talk to you about their experience with the designer.

sometimes pay for reviews or post reviews from people they’ve never worked with.

SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017

Bonded and Insured Ask the contractor to provide you with copies of a certificate of insurance The Total Picture for liability and for workers’ Make the process easy on compensation before the yourself. When deciding work begins. Verify the on a landscaping company, license and hire statechoose one that can meet all licensed landscaping of your needs so the project contractors. can be coordinated through one company. Look for a Proper Care and landscaping designer and Maintenance company who provides a Ensure the company site analysis, a preliminary will supply you with the design, revisions based on pertinent information your feedback, and a final regarding the proper care detailed master plan and of your new plants, trees, drawing of your project. and hardscape. Better yet, When possible, choose a ask if maintenance services company that installs and are offered so that you can services irrigation systems enjoy your beautiful new and installs outdoor lighting yard without having to lift a so your outdoor living finger! space is complete and your installation goes smoothly. Written Contract No matter which Your Budget company you choose, a Cost is always a concern The Right Choice written contract for your when hiring a home Your friends and review should be made improvement specialist. neighbors are sometimes available before any work Set a realistic budget and the best way to find a good commences. The contract stick to it. A good designer should detail the duration landscaping company. If you love their outdoor living can create a plan that can and timeframe for the be installed in stages. space, ask for the name of project with a specific the landscape designer and This allows you to see a start date and end date. It company they worked with. completed design but gives should include making you the opportunity to have arrangements for checking First-hand knowledge and experiences from someone it installed in stages over underground utilities, the course of a few years. who’s worked with the provisions for clean-up, This keeps it affordable but and a final walk thru of the company is likely a reliable source of information. You provides a cohesive design project once it’s complete. that won’t look like it was may also look online for Make sure to read each line thrown together a little at a attentively before signing landscaping companies in time. your area. While you can away!

Understand the most read reviews from prior important functions of your customers, keep in mind Article contributed by outdoor living space. Do that all bad reviews are not Wapsie Pines Lawn Care & you want to have space to necessarily accurate and Landscaping grill, sit around a fire, or there are usually two sides to every story. Good reviews entertain friends? Deciding on function will help you also need to be reviewed prioritize and decide what with some measure of you can afford. skepticism. Companies

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PAGE 5

Let the experts enhance Your outdoor Living space!

Stop by our Nursery & Greenhouse at our NEW location: 5708 W. Cedar-Wapsie Rd.

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Call our office to set and appointment with one of our Landscape Designers.

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Choosing a Credit Union A

credit union is a fantastic way to avoid the hassles often experienced from conventional banks.

In these economic times, many people are finding out that credit unions have a lot to offer. It is a great place to find a financial solution while helping your community.

Credit unions are typically nonprofit operations owned by their members. They are not owned by individuals or conglomerates. Typically, credit unions charge less in fees than for-profit banks. Any dividends go to the members instead of shareholders.

That makes credit unions a good deal.

They usually offer better interest rates on savings accounts and competitive rates on various loans. You might get a fantastic rate on a student loan, mortgage, auto loan or credit card.

Also, the federal government stands behind credit unions. Most deposits are insured up to $250,000.

Selecting a credit union is not difficult. The first step is to research those in your community and their membership requirements. Some credit unions are available to employees of specific companies, groups of public service or school employees. But others extend eligibility to anyone willing to follow their membership requirements. You may be asked to join a food co-op or other organization in order to qualify for membership.

A simple Internet search is an excellent starting point. Develop a list of credit unions in your area.

Then narrow your possibilities by researching eligibility, services offered and fees charged by each credit union.

Verify the current interest rates on their accounts.

If you can't find the rates online, call and ask them for their rates.

Find out if there are any fees associated with the accounts you want to open. As with traditional savings and loan banks, you might be required to pay a fee if you fall below a minimum balance.

Check on other requirements. You might need to use your debit card a certain number of times each

month.

If you are in the market for a specific loan, research to see if the loan is issued by the credit union and compare interest rates.

Of course, convenience is something to keep in mind. Check for availability of online and mobile services, weekday and weekend hours, where branches and ATMs are located.

You should also understand any fees associated with ATM or debit card usage. If you use ATMs frequently, those charges can add up fast.

Some credit unions belong to a nation network of credit unions for shared services. It might mean more access to ATMs without additional surcharge fees or transactions charges from your credit union.

It could also mean you have access to face-to-face service at thousands of participating credit unions across the nation! This provides convenient access to

your money and other services if you move or go on vacation, or if you have children attending college in other cities.

Once you have completed your research, make a list of the advantages and disadvantages of each credit union. You can easily compare them.

Upon choosing your credit union, visit the branch so you can understand all of the services. Learn more about your benefits of membership.

Article contributed by Dupaco Community Credit Union

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Credit Union What’s the or Bank: difference?

Credit unions were created to fulfill a public purpose: The cultivation of thrift, encouragement to save regularly, granting of loans for provident purposes at reasonable interest rates, and budget and consumer counseling.

Dupaco Community Credit Union continues to pursue and fulfill this social mission to serve and enrich the lives of our more than 99,000 members. This ideal is as true today as it was in 1948, when 10 Dubuque Packing Company employees founded the credit union on the philosophy of cooperation and mutual self-help.

Credit Union Organization Not-for-profit cooperative Primary objective Meet member/owner needs Ownership All members who are, by

definition, users of services

Directors Volunteers Decision-making Member controlled; one vote per member (each member/owner has the same power)

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Youu Arree

Bank For-profit corporation Maximize profit Stockholders who may or may not be customers or users Paid directors Only stockholders vote; one vote per share of stock (more stock means more voting power)

Distribution of Dividends issued to members Dividends issued to net income and used for capital development, stockholders only additional locations, equipment, etc. for members

Community links Owners/leaders reside or have an interest in the community

Rates/products Offer better overall rates and lower fees due to the nature of the organization and its dividend distribution

Generation of capital Generated only through income stream

Who benefits Members/owners Taxes Yes. Property, sales, employerrelated, monies and credits tax on reserves in Iowa

Deposit insurance NCUA

Owners/leaders may live anywhere in the world; headquarters could be anywhere in the U.S. Rates and fees may not be favorable because of forprofit status of banks Generated through income stream and/or issuance of stock Stockholders Yes. Property, sales, employerrelated and income FDIC

Dupaco Community Credit Union is more than local. As a financial cooperative owned by its members, Dupaco uses sustainable money methods to keep members’ money working here, locally. The more our members do with Dupaco, the more we’re able to give back through better rates, fewer fees, low-cost insurance, and free money management tools like Credit History Lessons, Money Makeovers, and on-demand educational tools. Empowering members to achieve financial success enriches the whole community.

Ready to join something better?

Join Dupaco.

Everyone who works or lives in the area is eligible for membership.

Dupaco.com/join | 800-373-7600

Federally Insured by NCUA

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What to Look for in an Assisted Living Program O

ne of the most important decisions a person makes in their lifetime is where they will go to get the assistance and care they need, as not all programs are the same. We spend our lives fighting the natural process of aging with worry in the back of our minds of what daily life will look like. But what if moving to a new setting meant your quality of life could only increase?

As people age, they often need extra assistance and care. Others may be facing a debilitating illness. Often times, the care required can be far more than friends and family can give.

Assisted living programs help people continue to live active lifestyles. They can live in comfortable, cost-effective settings that have many conveniences, including being a full-time medical facility. This makes them a popular option for people who need medical attention.

In the past, long-term care could only be handled by a nursing facility. Living in a hospital-like setting for an extended time was not a pleasant environment.

Assisted living programs provide patients with a comfortable, home-like residence, a community of support and worry-free assistance with a variety of services.

When looking for an assisted care program, consider some of these factors.

Garden & landscaping It’s a known fact that the landscaping of an assisted living center will give you a good indication about the quality of the facility. Proper maintenance of the lawn and gardens is a good sign.

If the prospective tenant enjoys spending time in nature, look for a facility that has park-like areas.

Some centers have community-style gardens and walkways for residents.

Just being able to see nature as it grows and changes with the seasons can be uplifting and soothing.

An assisted living center with manicured lawn and gardens can make a huge difference in the quality of life for a loved one.

Home amenities Accommodations at these settings can range from luxurious, detached cottages to cozy condominiums.

It all depends on what you are looking for, what you can afford, and what is available.

As you visit the facilities, try to personalize each space. Imagine how your loved one’s belongings might fit into the area and where decorations will be placed. Does the atmosphere bring about a feeling of peace and tranquility? How are the rooms decorated?

Are they tasteful and soothing, or do they remind you of a hospital setting?

Look at the home amenities and consider how you would feel living there, or your loved one living there, and how they meet your budget.

Recreation facilities Game and meeting areas can help the resident make new friends and keep them from feeling alone and lonely. Leaving the confines of their units is an important part of recovery. Make sure the program offers activities and space to occupy your loved one’s time.

Many assisted living centers make accommodations to allow their tenants’ use of this space. The Main Street Lifestyle Center at NewAldaya Lifescapes offers just what you or your

loved one is looking for to get active in the community and stay close to the services they need. NewAldaya’s Main Street offers a library, dining room, hair salon, city park, café, pub, and wellness center all open to the public. This gives the tenants a chance to take a break from their everyday living corridors and visit with friends and family in an open and welcome place. The Lifestyle Center also offers regular music entertainment and is host to many events brought in from outside community members.

Personal care Ask your loved one’s personal physician how much care is required to function safely. The doctor may even be able to guide you toward an appropriate facility. Be sure to seek advice on what qualifications you need to look for in the center’s staff. The center’s employees should be well qualified to handle medical needs.

If you monitor the medical care, you can avoid paying for extensive services that your loved one may not need. Understanding the care the person requires will help you find a center that is a good fit.

Choosing an assisted living facility is about finding the right combination of medical services and amenities. With research and thought, you will find the perfect place to bring comfort and care to your loved one.

Article contributed by New Aldaya Lifescapes

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PAGE 9

Bryhl Assisted Living - Leave the worries to us!

Enjoy life to its fullest in an environment that exudes Comfort, Community and best of all, Christian Caring.

“Under One Roof” Amenities!

3 different floor plans to choose from!

7511 University Ave. Cedar Falls, IA 50613 www.NewAldaya.org 319-268-0401

Daily Dining Options Room Service Transportation

Household Management Accommodations Various F loor Plans

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Art Van’s Pure Sleep" Mattress Store...

The correct choice!

M

attress shopping is often compared to shopping for tires or shingles or other "needs" that don't really give you the warm feel you enjoy when you purchase a "want".

Tires preform for thousands and thousands of miles and many years.

Roofing keeps you dry and warm or cool.

However you rarely tell your friends, "Wow, Jenn, Look at these beautiful black tires...don't you love how round they are and all the little grooves here?"

Sometimes people do talk over their mattress...as in, "I have not slept well for months", or "We love this new bed.... it takes away my shoulder discomfort and Judy's back issues." So, when you are ready to replace your old sleep set it is important to rely on getting the most for your dollar. Honest, long time mattress and furniture dealers still sell more mattresses than the "Big Box " or "Club " stores, or even new on-line sellers.

One big reason for that is all the local dealers will do for you before, during and after the sale. From expert knowledge in guiding you to the right choice, to delivery and set-up and/or haul away of your old set concluding with service after the sale if you have troubles. Many "non-traditional" sellers leave it up to you if you have issues after the sale. You may have to call the manufacturer, haul out an old set or "live with what you purchased" because your complaint is

not a "covered complaint". Most times your conversations will be on a 1-800 line talking to someone in an office miles and miles away.

At Art Van Furniture, home of the revolutionary "Pure Sleep" mattress store, you will find selection from the very lowest prices for rarely used mattresses up to the best of the best mattresses that give you all you seek in sleeping comfort and support. Why "Pure Sleep" over others?

"Pure Sleep" selection lets you walk through and REST TEST over 50 mattress styles and choices.

In Cedar Falls and Coralville, the ART VAN folks introduced into Eastern Iowa the FIRST "Pure Sleep" gallery of mattresses. With seven brands which include: Sealy and Posturpedic, Simmons and Beautyrest, Kingsdown, King Koil, Stearns & Foster,Serta and Perfect Sleeper-I Comfort and Tempurpedic you have the best brands in the world at your disposal. These seven companies are all in the TOP TEN in mattress sales in the U.S. as well as over 70% of all of America sleep on one of these brands.

To team up with this fantastic selection Pure Sleep adds Iowa's only "Diagnostic Sleep Center" that actually let's you lie down and in sixty seconds or so your body will be scanned and tested for pressure points and weight distribution. After you have completed this short study our Pure Sleep associates will present you with

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a print out that suggests three mattress support levels for you to try. The system does not have favorites, you will be able to test any brand and any price point.

Your new information will direct you to support levels you need to get a great night of sleep.

All Pure Sleep experts are trained by Art Van corp. and continue monthly training while on duty. It is so important you work with a knowledgeable sales-sleep professional.

Much like a sofa or chair.....you can see the pretty cover on the mattress and see how "thick" it is, but you will not know what is inside. What is inside is what counts!

Almost all traditional mattresses have STEEL coils covered over with different types of foam, cotton and/or "next generation foams". Some foams are higher density than less expensive mattresses use. The lower density foam mattresses will break down sooner and leave body impressions that might cause you sleepin discomfort.

The true support and durability of your new mattress in the traditional construction are the steel coils. There are many "types" of mattress coils and the name of which type of coil it is will not matter a lot for support or comfort. The strength and design of coils do matter.

Many people get hung up on COIL COUNTS, and some sales staffers will boast high number of coils so if you shop elsewhere you may think 750 coils must be better than 522?? But, what if the 522 coils are a much stronger steel and the shape allows more sleeping space on top of the coils where as the 750 coils may be the size of a pencil and in a gauge of steel found in the famous SLINKY child's toy?

Pure Sleep experts truly believe and can stand behind the mantra that there is much more to a mattress than the "specs". We do not buy a car by its weight. A Cadillac is a car and so was a YUGO. But that is where the comparisons stop. At Pure Sleep mattress stores you will quickly find out that your sales pro will not get too involved with coil count or how many years of warranty the mattress has because that is not what you really need. You need support first and foremost ,and with quality makers you will automatically enjoy years of durability and wear. Never buy a new set based on the longest warranty. Warranties vary greatly. Remember that the warranty only pertains to manufacturer faults. Such as a coil breaking and sticking through the ticking. Normal wear and tear are not covered, being "uncomfortable" does not matter and any stains at all on the mattress will void the warranty.

Art Van and Pure Sleep give you your best chance for a better night of sleep.

Through science and the training of

SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017 our staff you will be directed to enough choices to feel comfortable with your purchase, just like the comfort you will feel when you sleep in your new bed. It should be noted that your new mattress may and most likely will feel a lot different than the one you replaced. It should after all because that's why you dumped the old set. Give your new mattress a couple of weeks to acclimate to you and you to it.

New shoes feel much tighter and firmer than the old ones you've been kicking around the yard in for the last many years.

Finally, it would not be complete information to you future mattress buyers if we left out the fastest growing mattress style in the industry. It has been around for years, but not until the TEMPURPEDIC company started to advertise heavily that they make the mattress with the same foam as used by our astronauts.

Lead by Tempurpedic's success many others also got into the arena. Now all of the top makers of mattresses make mattresses with memory foam. Some will use the memory on the top and underneath are still the steel coils. Others may make ALL FOAM only mattresses.

You should be be aware that a memory foam mattress has a much higher return rate than traditional mattresses. Be sure you understand just what is in the bed? In an all foam bed, what does the memory foam lay on top of to guarantee you support and durability. We now have "gel infused" memory foam which helps control the temperature. Some people complained of "sleeping hot" in their new memory foam sets. Thus the introduction of Serta's "I-Comfort" mattress and gel cooling foam. Again, the competition all jumped in and you can find gel foam mattress from a few hundred dollars to$1000s. Be weary of the cheap memory foams. They tend not to hold up as well and break down in areas where you need the most support.

We at ART VAN Pure Sleep wish you a future of great sleeping after your choice of a new sleep set. Most folks keep their mattress 12-15 years. The Better Sleep Council suggests eight years is about the time to start switching mattresses.

Starting around that time your mattress WILL soften up and have less support the rest of its life. You may have heard that we spend about one third of our life in bed. More than anything else in our daily lives we stay in the same place for 7-9 hours per day. We think you will agree, a better mattress will make your whole day better....the other 16 hours you are not asleep. Enjoy your search and sleep better in a few days!

Article contributed by Art Van Furniture

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STARTS

NO CREDIt CHECK FINANCING....HERE!!

NOW

At Art Van you can qualify for NO CREDIT monthly payments that ARE LESS THAN ANY "Rent To Own" retailers....ask our staff for more details!

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399

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Queen Mattress Set compare at $1039 Art Van Price $519

SAVE 50% OFF

PLUS UP TO AN EXTRA

SAVE 61% Sealy Posturepedic

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PLUS 0% INTEREST FOR UP 72 MONTHS* TO

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ALL teMPUr-PeDIC

PLUS 0% IntereSt for 72 MonthS*

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197

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TO 30% SAVE UP 30%OFF** SElECT PIllOWS, SHEETS & BlaNKETS

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ADVERTISED ITEMS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE AT EVERY ART VAN LOCATION *Excludes Clearance Center, Super Value Items, Floor Samples and Warranties. No interest will be charged on promo purchase and equal monthly payments are required equal to initial promo purchase amount divided equally by the number of months in promo period until promo is paid in full. The equal monthly payment will be rounded to the next highest whole dollar and may be higher than the minimum payment that would be required if the purchase was a non-promotional purchase. Regular account terms apply to non-promotional purchases. For new accounts: Purchase APR is 29.99%; Minimum Interest Charge is $2. Existing cardholders should see their credit card agreement for their applicable terms. Subject to credit approval. 72 months financing applies to Tempur-Pedic purchases of $2999 or more. **Some restrictions apply. See store for details. Delivery charge applies. Percent savings are off the lowest individual sale price on merchandise purchases only. No minimum purchase required. Serta iComfort, Tempur-Pedic, Warranties, ‘NOW’ and SUPER VALUE Sale items excluded from additional discounts. Does not apply to previous purchases. Cannot be combined with any other current public or private discount or finance offer. ***Free TV promotion cannot be combined with any other offers. ‡Savings based on ‘Compare At’ pricing. Excludes Serta iComfort and Tempur-Pedic. See store for details. Sale prices valid 6/30-7/5.

2300 Main St. Cedar Falls 319-266-3535 2017 ART VAN FURNITURE

33 PER MONTH*

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Hours; Mon - Sat 10am-8pm Sun 11am-5pm

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How to Choose Farm Insurance

farmers don't have a lot of knowledge about the insurance industry. Yet if they experience an accident or mishap on their farm, a solid insurance policy can put their business back on a solid footing.

When you are in the market for farm insurance, here are some things you need to keep in mind.

N

With the farming industry changing at a rapid pace, you may have more exposure to the prospects of lawsuits and damages.

Contact with the general public, for instance, brings risk. Roadside produce stands, agri-tourism events and even "pick it yourself" fields bring a potential for liability if someone is injured or harmed on your property.

You might also be held liable

ot all insurances are the same and not all policies will cover what you need. When it comes to farm insurance, you will want to make sure you are getting the coverage you need for the most protection for your farm and equipment.

Picking the right insurance policy for your farm is vital to the success of your business.

Unlike farm equipment or a planting schedule, most

Increased liability

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if someone gets sick from eating your crops.

Every farm is different, with various sizes and types of operations. You might need different coverage from other farms. Have a meeting with your insurance agent to talk about your changing needs when it comes to liability coverage. The agent should develop a customized solution specifically for your needs.

insurance policy cover?

— Does the policy include all the barns and buildings on the farm?

— How are my livestock covered?

Policies are different. Some may cover livestock, buildings and equipment, while others will provide coverage from disasters, floods and other harm.

Find an insurance agent who is specially trained to look for risks that exist on farms. You should identify these things and insure against them before they happen. It is better to be prepared rather than feel regret.

Know your policy

Farm policies are very different from other insurance products. It is important to understand your coverage.

When you meet with your insurance agent, ask the following questions: Firm strength — If my house is on the farm, Make sure you are dealing does farm insurance cover it for with an insurance company damage? that has a strong balance sheet — What types of damage to and good reputation. my farm equipment does the Insurance companies receive

SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017

ratings based on their finances.

A good agent will discuss these ratings with you.

It is equally important to understand the company's reputation for dealing with claims. Good insurance companies handle farm claims quickly, fairly and professionally. It is always a smart idea to ask other farmers in your area about insurance companies. They may even have some recommendations for you.

Knowing how to protect your farm, equipment and livestock, and getting the right coverage will protect you as well as giving you peace of mind.

Article contributed by Grinnell Mutual Insurance

SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017

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PROTECT YOUR LEGACY Your land is your lifestyle, livelihood, and legacy. You plant seeds or raise livestock to benefit another generation. That’s why we are proud to protect many local farmers with quality farm insurance — today and into the future.

Trust in Tomorrow.™ Find a Grinnell Mutual Member in your area today. www.grinnellmutual.com.

AUTO | HOME | FARM | BUSINESS

“Trust in Tomorrow.” and “Grinnell Mutual” are property of Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company. © Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company, 2017.

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Cedar Valley Hospice – a trusted source of care W

e plan for many things in our lives — the birth of a child, a graduation, a wedding day. However, the one event that is often overlooked is how we want to be cared for when a serious illness arises and who we would like to provide that care.

Although most people have heard about hospice care or know someone who has benefited from it, it’s not a hot topic of discussion, nor do people really understand the true benefit hospice services can provide. Yes, most hospices offer the same basic services to those nearing the end of life, but there are several reasons why thousands of families choose Cedar Valley Hospice as its trusted source of care.

As a mission-driven, not-for-profit organization; Cedar Valley Hospice puts our patients and families at the forefront of every decision we make.

Our experienced and professional staff provides the highest quality, compassionate care while focusing on Making Each Moment Matter for the patient and family.

A common misconception is that hospice is only for the last few days or weeks of a patient’s life. This is not true - hospice services are open to anyone with an estimated prognosis of 6 months.

The longer a patient is on our program, the more support they and their family receive.

“When I brought up Cedar Valley Hospice, my husband said, ‘No, I’m not ready to die.’” said Marie Easter. “But when we opened our doors to them, he soon realized that he spent less time in the hospital and more time enjoying life at

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home with me.”

When Marie noticed Jerry was struggling even more to breath with his COPD, she researched how she could help her husband, Jerry, not only stay at home, but receive services that were “hands on.” She wanted someone who “was entrenched in the community” and had a “solid reputation.”

With over 38 years of experience, Cedar Valley Hospice has strong relationships with area medical professionals. This allows for easier communication between our team and other physicians and ultimately ensures the best care.

“The day I called them, they were there within hours,” said Marie. “They got him a medication and delivered it. It relieved so much anxiety knowing that whenever I called, they would be right there.”

A couple times, Jerry’s breathing had gotten worse and instead of having to make a trip to the hospital, Cedar Valley Hospice welcomed him into their Hospice Home. As the only place of its kind in the area, Marie enjoyed the comforting environment plus having access to a lot of the amenities she and Jerry would have at home - a patio area, room to relax and even a kitchen where she kept a bottle of wine in the fridge.

“After a while, their staff became our close friends,” added Marie. “They educated us and made it so the process wasn’t overwhelming. I always felt like it wasn’t a job for them - it was a personal relationship.”

In the end, Jerry died peacefully.

“I wanted the best for my family, and they offered it,” added Marie. “I am so thankful for Cedar Valley Hospice.”

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SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017

Hospice Myth vs. Fact Myth: Enrolling in hospice means you are giving up.

Fact: Enrolling in hospice is choosing to focus on quality of life and focused care. People enrolled in hospice actually live, on average, 29 days longer than those not enrolled.

Myth: If I enroll in hospice, I will have to give up my primary doctor.

Fact: When enrolled in hospice, a patient’s primary care doctor becomes more involved with care because the hospice team communicates with them on a regular basis about needs.

Myth: To get hospice care, I will have to leave my home for an inpatient facility.

Myth: Hospice care is expensive and my family won’t be able to afford it.

Myth: Hospice care is just for people with a cancer diagnosis.

Myth: All hospice providers are pretty much the same.

Myth: If it’s time for hospice, my doctor will talk to me about it.

Fact: Hospice is not a place, it is a concept of care. At Cedar Valley Hospice, 96% of hospice patients receive hospice services wherever they call home.

$

Fact: Hospice is a covered by Medicare, Medicaid and many private insurances. At Cedar Valley Hospice, no one is denied service for inability to pay. Hospice actually alleviates a financial burden because all medical needs are paid for through the hospice benefit.

Fact: Hospice serves people of any age dealing with serious illnesses with a prognosis of six months or less. This can include: heart, lung, kidney and neuro muscular diseases as well as a dementia diagnosis.

Fact: Hospice providers are independent entities and can be for profit or not-for-profit (like Cedar Valley Hospice), providing a wide range of different services.

Fact: Many doctors wait for a patient to bring up hospice, leading to a late enrollment.

Families and patients often tell Cedar Valley Hospice that they wish they had known about hospice sooner. Anyone can make a referral.

Article contributed by Cedar Valley Hospice

Jerry Easter and wife, Marie, were so grateful to have a place like the Cedar Valley Hospice Home to go to when Jerry needed extra care. It is the only Hospice Home of its kind in the area. For them, being comfortable made all the difference. On that particular day, Rod Blum visited and he and Jerry discussed politics- a highlight of both of their days.

SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017

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Making Each Moment Matter

- Marie Easter, wife

Let us help you start living better today!

319.272.2002 :: cvhospice.org :: 800.617.1972 waterloo . independence . grundy center . waverly . hospice home

PAGE 16

Tips for Extending Your Home into Your Patio I

n warmer weather, patios transform into the ultimate gathering space for backyard barbecues, reading, relaxing or even exercising. These outdoor rooms become an extension of the house, seamlessly merging the outdoors inside and vice versa.

This year, many homeowners in Cedar Rapids will tackle revamping the home to expand the transformation between indoors and outdoors, developing a patio space that

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can be used all season long.

Think about outdoor and indoor living spaces collectively, and choose a design that integrates them into one seamless space, advised Robert Riley from the Cedar Rapids Showroom. Incorporate elements from the patio into the home and elements from inside into your backyard patio design.

Start with a patio door that will set the stage for your transformation.

“The privacy of a backyard allows you to be flexible when choosing a patio door. With many design options available, it’s easy to find the style that suits your home’s needs,” said Robert.

Patio door tips Choose a sleek sliding patio door to compliment or create a clean look, or if you’re short on floor space. An elegant French or hinged patio door is a good option for homes with ample open floor space. Durable,

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easy-to-care-for doors like Pella 350 Series® premium vinyl sliding patio doors with the new Rolscreen® retractable insect screen option are great for families with children and high traffic.

Also, select a patio door

www.wcfcourier.com with accents to create the look you want, like stylish grilles, or convenient between-theglass blinds or shades for added privacy, plus a variety of hardware, exterior and interior finishes. Many Pella patio doors offer a retractable Rolscreen that helps keep insects out while letting in fresh air, and rolls out of sight when not in use.

Windows are very important to keep the seamless transformation between the room and patio. But more glass means more exposure to the elements. Low-E options, like Pella’s InsulShield® Advanced Low-E triple-pane glass with argon, can help protect your furniture from fading in direct sunlight, while enhancing your home’s energy efficiency.

If energy efficiency is your top priority, look for a patio door that is ENERGY STAR®qualified to help maximize potential energy savings and year-round comfort.

Continue your transformation with landscaping both inside and out to combine the areas.

SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017 If your patio connects to the kitchen, potted herb plants indoors blend beautifully with potted flowers on the patio. In settings where a patio connects to a living room, potted small trees inside connect well with planted trees framing your patio.

Complete your indoor/ outdoor gathering space by using similar materials between the two spaces. If you have decorative woodwork inside, bring it out on the deck with furniture, wooden boxes for your potted plants, in the railings (if needed) or even the trim on the house. Or if you have a lot of fabric inside, carry that over to your patio with weathertolerant fabrics on your patio furniture.

With these transformations, your beautiful patio space will quickly become the top destination in your home – the gathering spot for all family members when they come home from work or their daily activities.

Article contributed by Pella Windows and Doors

SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017

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The Pella Showroom

Windows & Doors

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Have you been in the market to replace carpet, switch to wood or check out the new luxury vinyl tiles that are now available? Or, maybe building a new home and need all flooring products?

W

hen shopping for floor coverings there are more choices and options than ever before. Just 30 years ago 80% of replacement or "new build" flooring was done using carpets and sheet vinyl. Almost all carpets were being treated with the latest and greatest improvement ever in carpeted floors. "Stainmaster" nylon yarns had a new Dupont chemical added to the nylon fiber during the process of extruding the nylon into yarns for the carpet. Stainmaster was introduced with a little boy tooling around in his "baby walker" during an evening dinner party his parents we throwing for friends. He is buzzing around so fast he causes a guest to spill everything on their plate to the floor. BUT, not to worry, his parents had just re-carpeted there home with NEW STAINMASTER carpet. Just like that the carpet was cleaned with a little water and soap and voila, no more stains.

As soon as Stainmaster hit the retailers floors that is all people were asking for and because of this the carpet industry had a huge boom in business for the next many years. What was best about this?

Stainmaster (and many copy cat products after) really does work. Dupont found an answer to a question folks we not really asking.

How can we keep our carpet clean and free of ugly stains? Back then in the 1980s before Stainmaster, Americans just expected stains on their carpet and pretty much lived with it.

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Why all the history? When you shop for floors now not only are the carpets made much better and clean much easier, hard surface flooring has made huge improvements as well.Hard surface floors have many more options then tile or vinyl and in some cases wood. It is almost hard to name all the new choices we have today in hard surface flooring which is why the carpet industry has seen huge loses in percentage of carpet sold for housing now versus the days of Stainmaster introductions. Less than half of all new homes built since 2012 have more carpet in them than hard surface.

If you are one of the many needing flooring be sure you get a brief education in the different products before you buy. Carpet for an example is made in many yarn fibers but the main three are nylon, olefin and polyester fiber. Nylon is best for long term wear and comes in many qualities from the Big Box introduction low price points up to $10-$15 per sq foot. Olefin is a made man fiber and is great for ease of care. You can clean most olefin carpet with bleach!

But, be sure to "test" an area first so that you don't make your carpet worse than before you started.

Polyester is also easy to clean and naturally resists most daily staining. For bright, deep and vivid color, polyester yarn is the way to go.

Under your carpet you need quality padding so that your carpet does not go flat soon or show wear patterns as quickly. The best pads are dense and made up of re-bond foam and foam by-products or visco memory foams. Some padding is still being sold that are 100% foam which typically does not retain its firmness near as long thus causing the carpet to wear down faster. The density of your pad is very important too. Density is measured in pounds by the square inch. The higher the rating the better quality rebonded materials are used. Starting at about a six or seven pound pad will get you out of the lower end and help your carpet retain its luster and beauty longer. At SIMPSON FLOOR COVERING (Located in the NEW -ART VAN FURNITURE showrrom) customers most often purchase the 8# pad or for a softer feel the newer style visco infused padding.

With the new visco you will get a softer walk and it has a natural moisture barrier which helps insulate your home keeping you warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. If your carpet sits below grade areas of the home try to shoot for the visco quality as the moisture barrier makes a big difference in your comfort plus mold or mildew issues are reduced with this pad.

In hard surface flooring there are 100's of options.

While sheet vinyl was the most popular years ago, especially for kitchens and baths, now it has fallen behind wood, laminate wood,ceramic, porcelain or glass tile and newer luxury vinyl tiles. All of these floors are great options and each have their selling points.

In general when you are using wood flooring find out if your selection is solid wood such as cherry or oak or an engineered product which has a thinner piece of the cherry overlaid onto a "sub-structure" base. Both are quality and the biggest difference is

SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017

an engineered floor can only be re-finished one time.

Solid floors can be re-finished many times. Even with this difference, how many times do you think you will truly re-finish your wood floor? Most homeowners never re-finish because they move or sell their home or they have lighter use in their homes thus less wear on the engineered styles. The top finish is also very important. You want a floor to have multiple layers or steps in the finishing processing. This will help your floor look better much longer. It is also important that while some people will use wood in areas than have a chance for getting wet, be careful if you do and get the water cleaned up as soon as you notice it. After all...wood and water never have been a great team.

In the world of vinyl we suggest you check out luxury vinyl tiles. These are easier to install, have a terrific wear layer and look so much like the "real tile" you may not notice the difference. Plus, these products are extremely easy to clean and in some cases easier to clean than ceramic tile floors. Plus in many styles of LVT you can do away with grout lines and the trouble of keeping those grouted areas clean.

Sheet vinyl is still a great choice and in some cases easy to install. Be sure you ask if you will need a new sub-floor before you buy. do not want to come home expecting a beautiful new floor, yet see the sub floor beneath "telegraph" anything from under the new vinyl.

Time tested ceramic tiles and their sister products still sell well. You can get some terrific looks with tile and so many options you won't be able to think of half of them. Tile has come down in price across the country so it is much more affordable than 20 years ago. Most tile will wear about the same so wearability is not as much of a worry. Instead quality installation is your number one concern. Be sure your sub-floor is correct. You must have at least a 3/4" sub-floor for tile to be installed. The grout lines are also important. The smaller grout line the easier to maintain and clean. Installers without as much experience often will have grout line up to twice the size of what you would like.

Like any larger purchase be sure to work with a reputable company who stands behind their products AND their installers. Many installers are now subcontractors to different stores. Your store should also stand behind their work. It is hard to accept a poor quality installation job because the seller tells you that you have to work with an installer to get your troubles handled.

Simpson Flooring has been around for 70 years.

Now a part of the new ART VAN company in Cedar Falls and Coralville they will measure and give you an estimate for free!

Plus, their staff have been in the industry for many years. Their hours are Mon-Sat 10-5 or by appointment. Happy floor shopping!

Article contributed by Art Van Furniture

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SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017

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SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017

Choosing In-Home Care Many people as they age prefer to stay in the place they call home, whether that is where they raised children, a condo where they downsized or even a retirement community they moved into several years ago.

As health needs change, though, care may be needed to make that preference a reality. In-home care providers offer assistance that makes it possible for older adults to keep living at home.

WHY IN-HOME CARE Bringing someone into your home to provide care and companionship for a few hours at a time is typically less expensive than moving to assisted living.

Choosing the right organization requires some research.

How long have they been in business? Some companies on the market today are forprofit franchises. Others are non-profit mission driven organizations. Ask about the company’s experience and hiring practices. See if they will provide references from current clients or client family members.

Talk to your loved one's primary care physician to help you understand your choices. The doctor can help you select a provider and help you determine the

level of care required. This professional may even have referrals to give you.

After speaking to several in-home care providers, you can compare the range of services they offer. Typically, they will fall into three categories: NURSING CARE Providers vary greatly in terms of whether they provide any certified nursing care. Some have registered or licensed nurses who can help with chronic condition management.

Others provide care with certified nursing assistants who can provide more simple tasks such as medication reminders and blood sugar monitoring.

Always inquire about the medical qualifications of any in-home care providers you are considering. All workers should have the proper training, degrees and certifications.

If you are unclear about the exact level of medical care you or a loved one will require, ask your physician for advice.

COMPANION CARE Caregivers can help with daily grooming, mobility and any special diet requirements. They can help prepare meals or run simple errands. You might have them help clean out closets,

fold laundry, put away dishes, sort mail and other household tasks.

An in-home caregiver also provides a friendly face and good conversation as well as general care. The caregiver might sing along as you play the piano, or vice versa.

She or he could read aloud, discuss daily news or play a board game.

Quality in-home care providers understand that patients also need mental stimulation and human contact in order to stay well.

Your provider agency should work to make a good match for you; someone you would find enjoyable to have around your home.

PERSONAL TECHNOLOGIES A few in-home care providers now offer simple technologies that help keep

you safe at home, even when a caregiver can’t be there. New versions of personal emergency response pendants offer additional support, such as fall detectors, that can automatically call for help when a problem is sensed.

Additionally, medication dispensers help patients take their medications as scheduled to keep them healthy.

THINGS TO REMEMBER Before entering a contract, understand the services that will be provided. You want to make sure you are getting what you need without paying for services that are not required.

You and any family caregivers should be comfortable with the people who work for the company.

In-home caregivers will

quickly become part of your life, especially as they enter and exit the house.

Get referrals from people who have been in a similar situation.

The best in-home care provider is about finding the right combination of services to fit your unique needs and budget. Once you have the right company, the patient will receive companionship, comfort and cost savings that make in-home care a fantastic choice.

Article contributed by atHome with Western Home

SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017

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When a little help is all you need to live at home.

Maybe it’s help getting dressed, making meals, running errands, keeping you company.

It could be managing medications, monitoring blood pressures or tracking a chronic condition.

Or it may simply be peace of mind, knowing emergency help is a phone call away if something happens.

Only one local provider offers companion care, in-home nursing and simple technologies.

Make one phone call today and learn how atHome with Western Home can meet your needs and budget...helping you live at home.

Call Krista at (319) 277-7779 for a free consultation. www.WesternHomeCommunities.org/athome

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SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017 7. Get all estimates in writing. Read over the estimates to ensure that everything is covered, including a description of the job to be performed, total cost, time for completion, insurance coverage and cleanup. Ask questions and get answers in writing before you sign a contract or agreement.

Ask about guarantees and warranties.

8. Don't make a decision based solely on price. The electrical system in your home is far too important for you to choose simply by price.

9. If you are undecided, you can try a potential electrician by hiring him for a small project first.

How to Choose an Electrician

that doesn't work is a warning sign. At the first opportunity you suspect a problem, ask your family and friends to recommend an experienced electrician. You can also look online for qualified professionals.

A

2. Contact three or four electricians and request information about their licenses, availability, experience and rates.

unless they are trained to do so. Trained professionals can skillfully and safely rewire a home or connect a lighting system.

Do-it-yourselfers need to understand that electricity can cause grave injury or even death if handled improperly. djusting the thermostat, There is also the real possibility flipping the light switch of electrical fire if the repair is and turning on the heat done improperly. It is wise to would be futile without an hire a licensed electrician to uninterrupted supply of power. make any electrical repairs.

It's tough to imagine life without electricity. If you Consider these tips couldn’t charge your phone or when you are searching computer, where would you for a qualified, licensed be? electrician for your project Problems with the electrical or repair: system and wiring in a home 1. Don't postpone a repair. are not problems for the Flickering lights or an outlet average person to solve;

3. Any electrician who cannot provide references and a current license should not be considered. A reliable and experienced electrician will maintain a current license.

4. Ask for references from recently completed projects.

A reputable electrician will understand and gladly comply.

If he or she cannot provide references, they may do substandard work or not have recent experience.

5. Check with the local better Business Bureau for complaints. Even the best electrician will have a disgruntled customer or two, but if there are any complaints, find out how those complaints were resolved.

6. Get estimates from two or three electricians. They should come to your home and speak to you about the job.

These estimates will allow you to compare rates and make an assessment of their appearance and work habits.

Don’t end up with damages that could have been avoided by being repaired by a professional. Find the right, qualified electrician in your area to make sure you and your home are safe.

Article contributed by Dalton Plumbing & Heating

SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017

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SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017

Tips for Selecting a Quality Hearing Aid I

f you’re suffering from a hearing loss or impairment, a hearing aid may be just the thing for you.

Hearing loss affects more than 40 million Americans. People of all ages and backgrounds experience hearing impairment or loss.

Many people seek out hearing aids to help relieve the serious consequences of this condition. As a result, they lead richer, fuller lives.

These devices are highly technical, customized to meet each individual's needs. Types of hearing loss vary widely, and are sometimes quite different from person to person.

Innovations in hearing aids include using digital processors to isolate and amplify the frequencies a patient needs most. Many of the latest hearing aids are so small they are practically invisible.

Styles The good news is that you no longer need to purchase bulky, obvious hearing aids of yesteryear.

The most popular hearing

aids on the market fit completely within the ear canal. While they are attractive and barely noticeable, their small size means they are typically more expensive.

Other styles include halfshell, full-shell, behindthe-ear and open-fit hearing aids.

Because these hearing aids come in a range of sizes and prices, consult with a specialist to help you choose the right style to fit your needs.

Internal Electronics The design of a hearing aid will make a large difference in cost and performance. Two devices may look similar but produce dramatically different results.

The difference is in the internal electronics.

Nearly all hearing aids available today are digital. They will filter out background noise, enabling the wearer to hear a conversation clearly. This technology is particularly effective in crowded settings.

This technology can be tailored to help with your particular kind of

hearing loss. If you have an outdated hearing aid, consider upgrading to a more modern device. It will help your hearing be as close to natural as possible.

Options When you are searching for a hearing aid, look for special features that will enhance your hearing and your life. Some examples include: Bluetooth Connections You could connect wirelessly to Bluetooth electronic devices, such as smart phones. It allows you to hear phone conversations directly through your hearing aid.

Telephone Adapters This feature senses when you are talking on

the phone and adjusts the setting to make it more clear during your conversation.

Directional Microphone: You can adjust your device to pick up sound that is directly in front of you. For example, when you are having oneon-one conversations with a person, it is useful to turn the microphone to improve your hearing. You may also change the setting to a more general setting that would be useful at public performances or concerts.

Remote Control Some devices allow you to adjust the settings without touching it. A remote control can change the directional microphone or amplification.

There are a lot of beautiful sounds in the world. Don’t let your hearing loss cause you to miss any more of them. A hearing aid can help you.

Article contributed by Potters Hearing Aid Service

SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017

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PAGE 25

“Hearing loss affects over 48 million Americans… treating hearing loss more aggressively could help stave off cognitive decline and dementia.”

–Katherine Griffin, AARP “Hearing Loss Linked to Dementia”

Expect the Best Quality | Service | Price

Ron PotteR

Accepting approved John Deere employees and retirees

1416 West 4th St. Waterloo Lee MAttox AssociAte

319-232-7113

www.PottersHearingAid.com

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pet therapy or even have a pet in the building, being cared for by residents and staff.

homes that are certified for dementia care are called CCDI (chronic confusion or dementing illness) communities. Nursing homes must provide security, specialized staff training, higher staff to resident ratios and specialized leisure services to achieve the CCDI license.

SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017

Choosing the Right Alzheimer's Care Hearing the diagnosis of any fatal disease is difficult, perhaps even more so with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia that cause cognitive impairment along with physical decline.

quiet areas for reading?

Do outdoor activities inspire activity? People with dementia need to feel comfortable and safe. The best options offer cozy atmospheres where your loved one can feel at ease.

Many family members try to care for people with dementia at home.

Sometimes behaviors caused by dementia, such as wandering or being awake at odd hours, mean that’s no longer possible.

Finding the appropriate place for your loved one may be the best solution for both of you.

Professionals who care for people with dementia know the support of family and friends can have a huge impact. You should have ample opportunities for family visits, activities and outings that include family and friends.

Do residents get to enjoy regular group activities, special outings and other services? Quality providers offer supervised picnics, fitness and craft classes, religious events and even field trips to enhance the care of the residents. Active people stay healthier longer.

What to look for Make sure to visit any community that you consider and talk with current family members about their experiences.

Be sure to inquire if the community you are visiting provides dementia care in a specialized setting, or with the general population of older adults.

You want to inspect the living environment.

Are the rooms clean and comfortable? Are there

The community should not feel like a locked hospital ward or a boot camp, but should have security and protective measures in place. Your loved one should be treated with dignity and respect.

Some places provide

Assisted living or nursing home?

People with early to mid-stage dementia can often receive appropriate care in assisted living, particularly in a dementia-specific assisted living community. As the disease progresses, a nursing home may be required to meet the person’s care needs.

In Iowa, nursing

New models of care Find out if the organization employs one of the latest proven models of care, such as the neighborhood model or the household model of care. The idea

is to replace institution with home, so that residents enjoy life to the fullest in a place they like to be.

When you find the right care for your loved one, you can be assured of their safety, health and happiness. And you can enjoy peace of mind knowing they are safe and having moments of joy, in spite of their disease.

Article contributed by Western Home Communities

SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017

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PAGE 27

Join these friends and soon-to-be-neighbors at Prairie Wind!

Bonnie and Darlys became friends at church and look forward to being neighbors. They can’t wait for their new homes - one above the other – to be ready at Prairie Wind in June.

Bonnie looks forward to spending time with people, socializing, eating meals, playing cards and going on outings.

She can take Western Home Communities transportation if she doesn’t feel like moving her vehicle out of the heated underground garage.

Darlys relishes the thought of no more maintenance, since Western Home Communities takes care of it. With others cooking and cleaning, too, that affords more time for shopping and other enjoyable pursuits.

Many of those will be right next door in the Jorgensen Plaza for Well-Being, where residents like Darlys and Bonnie can eat at the restaurant, walk the track, take a swim, try yoga or tai-chi classes, ask computer questions, pick up a gallon of milk, relax with a massage, try a new hairstyle, worship, appreciate musical performances and learn from educational programs.

Both women look forward to meeting new friends in this unique community. Why not join them?

Call Maria for your personal tour before all apartments are reserved!

(319) 242-5742.

www.WesternHomeCommunities.org/PrairieWind

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SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017

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