THE HIGH POINT ENTERPRISE
How to Tools, Tips & Techniques on everything you need to know about all kinds of things
HOW TO GUIDE | MAY 2, 2014 1
…IS YOUR CAR READY? POTHOLE SPECIAL Alignment Service
$10
Off
Expires 2014 Expires May 31, 2014. Must present coupon.
RADIATOR Special
$3995 Inspect all hoses and belts, replace antifreeze, check heating system. Expires May 31, 2014. Must present coupon. Expires 2014
Timing Belt Replacement
10
% Off
Expires 2014 Expires May 31, 2014. Must present coupon.
Transmission Service
$10 Off Expires 2014 Expires May 31, 2014. Must present coupon.
Oil Change Lube & Filter
$10 Off
*Most cars, Additional cost for some oil filter types. Up to 6 quarts of stock oil included. Add for any oil over 6 qts. Expires 2014charge. *Expires May 31, 2014 Synthetic oil additional No oil disposal fee. Must present coupon.
Special Discounts Offered To Employees Of These Companies: • High Point Regional Healthcare • High Point Bank & Trust • YMCA/YWCA • High Point University
www.beamertire.com
FREE
code read for check engine light
THE HIGH POINT ENTERPRISE
HOW TO GUIDE | MAY 2, 2014 3
How to Check your TPMS
Was Your TPMS Light on this Morning?
S
tatistics show the tire pressure indicator light is not understood by many drivers. Low tire pressure can be very dangerous and cause perfectly good tires to separate and blow out especially at highway speeds. Ambient air temperature and punctures are the most common reasons the tires loose pressure. This light located on the dash among many other warning lights indicates that the tire pressure system senses a problem. This system was introduced in Europe in 1986 and the first vehicle to use a tire pressure monitoring system, (TPMS), in the U. S. was the Chevrolet Corvette in 1997. The United States government under Bill Clinton pushed through legislation in the late 90’s to mandate a tire pressure monitor system in all light vehicles by 2007. Starting in 2005 a percentage of vehicles had to have a tire pressure monitor system then gradually introducing to all vehicles. This was in response to Firestone’s recall tire problems during that time and also the underlying fact that correct tire pressures greatly increase fuel mileage. The Tread Act, as it was called, introduced the system to vehicles under 10,000 lbs. and started alerting drivers to severe under inflation events. The first monitors were mainly indirect using different methods to indicate possible inflation issues. They monitored mostly by sensing a change in ride height. Also using the ABS system which monitors tire rotation speeds. Rotation speeds will fluctuate if the tire has too little or too much air. The direct sensors that are inside the tire and wheel assembly monitor the air pressure inside the tire. Then the sensor sends a signal by radio wave to the receiver when the pressure is outside a predetermined range it illuminates the light on the dash. Some of the sensors inside the wheel are clamped or attached with adhesive to the wheel assembly. Others are connected to the valve stem. The valve stems can be aluminum or rubber that connect to theses tire pressure sensors.
After the TPMS alerts the driver to a pressure issue all tires should be checked and adjusted to the pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Most cars currently relearn the correct pressure and the light should go off by itself. On some older model vehicles the system may have to be reset by different methods. Please see a tire store for help with the reset. In addition, if the light stays on even with the correct pressure in the tires this could indicate problems with the system that require diagnosis of the sensors and receiver. The sensors do fail at times and loose power. Some of the problems with a computer may require the dealer to diagnose and correct. Tire Pressure Monitor Systems also can have trouble with local radio frequencies interfering, excessive snow/ice on the vehicle wheels and incorrect tires or wheels being used on the vehicle. Leaking can occur on stems with a rubber grommet which should be changed every 5 years or so. Tire pressure monitors are here to stay. They are very valuable in keeping the car safe to drive and to increase and maintain the gas mileage as the vehicle was designed.
Doug Beamer, Beamer Tire & Auto Repair
THE HIGH POINT ENTERPRISE
4 HOW TO GUIDE | 05.02.2014
How to Reduce Risks of a Heart Attack
I
From High Point Regional
t’s true: Heart disease is the No. 1 killer in women. Yet, only 1 in 5 American women believe that heart disease is her greatest health threat. Take Amy Heinl, for example, an avid marathon runner and fitness devotee. Heart disease was the furthest thing from her mind – until she collapsed during an early-morning workout. A diagnosis of heart disease followed, and it took her completely by surprise. “I really couldn’t believe this happened to me,” Amy says. “I thought of myself as a healthy person, and I was exercising when it happened. I truly believed I had pulled a muscle.” Which is why her friend called 9-1-1, not Amy. The truth is, women are less likely to call 9-1-1 when experiencing symptoms of a heart attack themselves. It simply doesn’t occur to them to do so. And why would it? The bulk of media attention on the disease is focused on men.
What causes heart disease? Heart disease affects the blood vessels and cardiovascular system. Numerous problems can result from this, many of which are related to a process called blankatherosclerosis, a condition that develops when plaque builds up in the walls of the arteries. This buildup narrows the arteries, making it harder for blood to flow through. If a blood clot forms, it can stop the blood flow. This can cause a heart attack or stroke. For more information about heart disease in women, visit NovantHealth.org or to sign up for a heart risk assessment with the Women’s Heart and Vascular Center for a comprehensive heart disease risk assessment by mailing womensheartcenter@ novanthealth.org or calling 336-476-2539. But it doesn’t end there. Heart disease can take many other forms as well:
Heart disease causes 1 in 3 women’s deaths each year, killing approximately one woman every minute.
Heart failure or congestive heart failure, which means that the heart is still working, but it isn’t pumping blood as well as it should, or getting enough oxygen.
Since 1984, more women than men have died each year from heart disease and the gap between men and women’s survival continues to widen. The symptoms of heart disease can be different in women vs. men, and are often misunderstood. While 1 in 31 American women dies from breast cancer each year, 1 in 3 dies of heart disease. It’s time to focus on finding, and becoming the solution. Here’s what you need to know about the causes of heart disease and ways you can prevent it.
Studies show that healthy choices have resulted in 330 fewer women dying from heart disease per day. Here are a few lifestyle changes you should make: • Don’t smoke • Manage your blood sugar
Here are more unsettling facts:
90 percent of women have one or more risk factors for developing heart disease.
that you can’t. But the key takeaway is that with the right information, education and care, heart disease in women can be treated, prevented and even ended.
Arrhythmia or an abnormal rhythm of the heart, which means the heart is either beating too fast, too slow or irregularly. This can affect how well the heart is functioning and whether or not the heart is able to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. Heart valve problems can lead to the heart not opening enough to allow proper blood flow. Sometimes the heart valves don’t close and blood leaks through, or the valve leaflets bulge or prolapse into the upper chamber, causing blood to flow backward through them. How can I prevent it? Many things can put you at risk for these problems – one’s you can control, and others
• Get your blood pressure under control • Find out your risk/family history • Stay active • Lose weight • Eat healthy Know the Heart Attack Signs in Women Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of your chest. It lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back. Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach. Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort. Other signs such as breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness. As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back or jaw pain. If you have any of these signs, don’t wait more than five minutes before calling for help. Call 9-1-1 and get to a hospital right away.
Give yourself the gift of better heart health You deserve the best health possible, and that includes a healthy heart. We’re committed to your wellness, which is why we offer a comprehensive $25 heart risk assessment to screen for and protect against heart disease, the number one killer of women. In a private, one-hour session, our experts at Novant Health Women’s Heart & Vascular Center will perform several, simple cardiovascular screenings, including blood pressure and cholesterol, weight/BMI and a test to measure blood flow in the legs. You’ll receive a personalized wellness plan based on your individual risk factors to ensure your heart health for years to come.
To purchase a $25 gift certificate, please call 336-476-2539 or email womensheartcenter@NovantHealth.org
207 Old Lexington Road, Thomasville • NovantHealth.org/heart
ARE YOU PREPARED FOR THE ‘’GOLDEN YEARS?’’
Baby Boomers are more likely to have higher cholesterol and higher blood pressure than previous generations
As a Baby Boomer, retirement is peeking over your shoulder. Wouldn’t it be a shame if you are not able to do what you have planned and saved for all these years because your health is not up to par? The Fitness Center at High Point Regional can help make those dreams become a reality. Make your health a priority today and join The Fitness Center at High Point Regional for a world class fitness experience right in your own back yard. Amazing staff, great variety of exercise activities, group exercise classes and much more all for just $46 a month and a one-time enrollment fee of $75!
MAY THE REST OF YOUR LIFE, BE THE BEST OF YOUR LIFE! Baby Boomers are more obese than their parents
The Fitness Center at High Point Regional
Schedule a free initial visit today. Call (336) 878-6221 for more information or visit FitnessCenterHP.com
Baby Boomers have a higher incidence of diabetes than their parents
601 N Elm Street - PO Box HP-5 - High Point, NC 27261 - (336) 878-6000 - HighPointRegional.com
THE HIGH POINT ENTERPRISE
How to
HOW TO GUIDE | MAY 2, 2014 7
GROW OLD GRACEFULLY The Fitness Centers of High Point Regional
F
ather time, it seems, has a way of making the years go by fairly quickly. With each passing year the wear and tear on the body becomes more noticeable, influenced by how you live your life. Having worked in the wellness field for over 30 years, there are some things I have learned that make growing older more tolerable. Granted, there are no guarantees, but these lifestyle traits appear to be consistent with those individuals that contend a better quality of life.
In addition to physical activity, drinking adequate amounts of water, getting plenty of rest, and making good food choices are all common traits indicated by those who feel they have grown old gracefully. Topping this list of traits is physical activity. The body was meant to move and when it does not, bad things seem to happen. I recently read a report that indicated that children of the electronics age are experiencing more bone fractures and they are doing so at earlier ages. Lack of activity during the bone
development years is being blamed as play has been replaced by hand-held games and devices. Less activity results in lower bone densities due to a lack of pull on the bones from inactive muscles. This concern about osteoporosis continues throughout life and is a vital reason why physical activity needs to be sustained among all age groups. Physical activity impacts our health a great deal and should be done on a daily basis. The movement of blood around the body with exertion helps promote oxygen supply to the cells of the body, especially the brain which loves to be bathed in oxygen. This, we are finding, is vital for cognitive thinking, memory, and combating fatigue and stress. In addition, movement helps us burn calories, which as we all know is essential for preventing excessive fat to collect on our bodies. This helps ward off a litany of chronic conditions such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes and orthopedic issues. Lack of activity, sitting for example, also quickly shuts down an enzyme in our bodies that is responsible for vacuuming fat out of our bloodstreams. More fat in the blood can lead up to plaque build-up, which increases the potential for stroke, hypertension and heart attack.
Inactivity also causes muscle to atrophy, leaving us weaker and more susceptible to injury. Muscle drives our metabolism, for the most part, so by reducing muscle we decrease the number of calories we burn during the day. If you are not getting enough physical activity working around the house or in the yard, take up a leisurely sport. Getting out onto the tennis court or walking a round of golf, for example, will get you out into the fresh air, interacting with people, and it will provide you with an outlet for getting your muscles moving and oxygen flowing.
If sports are not your thing, join a fitness center and settled into an exercise routine. These may include cardiovascular and strength conditioning, a selection of group exercise classes, swimming pools, and perhaps a recreational component. Having a variety of activities tends to enhance the exercise experience and aids in motivation and consistency. In addition to physical activity, drinking adequate amounts of water, getting plenty of rest, and making good food choices are all common traits indicated by those who feel they have grown old gracefully. These are good recommendations to heed as we all would like to feel better with each waking day.
THE HIGH POINT ENTERPRISE
8 MAY 2, 2014 | HOW TO GUIDE
How to
Choose a Physician From Thomasville Medical Center
C
hoosing a physician is just that - a choice! It may be one of the most important things you will do. You need to be able to trust this person for his her expertise, advice and to administer treatment that may save your life. This is a decision to make before you get sick. There are many types of physicians out there with many different practices and styles of practice. All of them offer a variety of choices for your health care. How do you find a health care partner who’s right for you? Use this convenient checklist to help you through the process: Understand what’s important to you: Make a list of the top 3 – 5 things that are most important to you or your family in a healthcare provider. These can range anywhere from personality and philosophy of care, to insurances accepted and communication style, to location, office hours, and board certifications of the provider. Do your homework: A good first step is ask friends, family and colleagues about the physician(s) they see and whether they would recommend them. Many health care systems and hospitals offer online provider directories where you can narrow your selection of doctors based on several criteria such as specialty, location, gender, languages spoken, etc. Log on to one of our websites: www. thomasvillemedicalcenter.org/site/ our_doctors or www.kernersvillemc. org/OurDoctors/PhysicianFinder.aspx to view each physician’s profile and office information for a physician close to you. Also check out the hospitals where they serve as well on www.
nchospitalquality.org to determine the quality of the medical facility you may be referred for health related services.
information specific to your needs. Ask: Do you like to teach your patients?
If you don’t have access to a computer, contact our 24 hour 7 day a week physician referral lines 476-2793 at Thomasville Medical Center or 7187010 at Kernersville Medical Center to speak with a trained professional to help you locate a physician to meet your needs. This service is free of charge.
After Hours or same day appointments: If you prefer to – or have to- see your physician outside the hours of 8 am – 5 pm, does he/she see patients at other times? What about same day appointments?
Review on line profiles and contact the physician’s office directly to find out enough information to determine whether the provider is likely to meet the top 3 – 5 things on your “most important list”. You can always use your initial office visits to ask more questions and determine whether the physician is ultimately a good fit for your and/or your family. When seeking a potential physician, consider the qualities that you feel make a good medical provider: Compassion: your health care partner should care about your comfort and listen to you. Ask: How much time do you spend with your patients? What is your approach to patient care? Comfortable and Trustworthy: You have to talk candidly with your health care partner so your concerns are understood and options for treatment are fully explored. Feel comfortable to ask questions to partner in the diagnosis and treatment plan. Expertise: Examine the doctor’s credentials. Ask: Are they board certified or board eligible? Have they completed advanced fellowships? How many years have they been in practice? Education Role: Your physician should be able to provide health
Hospital admissions: If you prefer a particular hospital such as Thomasville Medical Center or Kernersville Medical Center, or your insurance limits you to a certain hospital for treatment, make sure you know where the physician admits his or her patients for both inpatient and outpatient care. When an illness or injury occurs, it’s comforting to know you have access to a nurse on call, 24 hours a day by calling Care Connections at 718-7070. One free call will connect you to a highly qualified nurse, who will carefully evaluate your needs. The nurse will quick advise the best course of treatment, and can call ahead and or schedule your visit if needed. Review Your Notes: How did the physician information match up to the criteria above? How well did they match up with your “most important list”? Remember, understanding health information can affect everyone regardless of background or educational level. According to The Partnership for Clear Health Communication, limited literacy skills is a stronger predictor of an individual’s health status than age, income, employment status, education level, and racial or ethnic group. That’s why physicians across the Novant Health system implemented Ask Me 3™, which was created by the Partnership for Clear Health
Communication in order to empower you to become a more active partner in your care and increase your understanding of your health. What is my main problem? What do I need to do? Why is this important for me? When using Ask Me 3™, you are encouraged to ask 3 simple (yet, essential) questions whenever you have a conversation with your healthcare provider: By asking and understanding the answers to these three questions, you can take action to manage your health and make informed decisions. We encourage you to use Ask Me 3™ with all of your healthcare providers (including your pharmacist). If you don’t understand something, we want you to ask for more information. We also encourage you to invite a family member or trusted friend to go with you to your appointments to listen and take notes. For the past few years, Novant Health has worked to offer our patients the most remarkable experience in every dimension, every time. That’s not just a catch phrase, it’s our Vision, and we actively incorporate it into everything that we do. Throughout our journey to the remarkable patient experience, we’ve adopted some nationally recognized health initiatives, as well as developed our own unique strategies that will improve patient safety, increase your understanding of your condition and may enhance the overall satisfaction with your health care experience. Looking for a physician? We would welcome an opportunity to partner with you on your health.
Need a doctor to care for you and your family? We’re here for you
Whether you need a primary care physician or a specialist, Novant Health Thomasville Medical Center is here for you. With doctors’ offices across Davidson County, we’re conveniently located close to where you live and work. With experts who are dedicated to providing quality, compassionate care to you and your family, you can trust us with your healthcare needs.
To learn more about our specialties and find the doctor who’s best for you, call HealthLink at 336-476-2793 or visit NovantHealth.org/doctor.
Making healthcare remarkable
How to know where to go for medical care that cannot wait? Do you know where to go when the unexpected happens and you or a loved one need immediate medical care outside of your primary care physicians’ normal business hours? Where should you go? The Emergency Room at the nearest hospital—or a local Urgent Care clinic? When you are in need of medical attention, quick access to exceptional medical care is important. Studies show greater than 40 percent of patients will go to the Emergency Room for non-emergent medical assistance—that could be treated elsewhere. Knowing the difference between urgent care and emergency care and where to seek treatment could make a significant difference in how your needs are met. Emergency departments specialize in initial treatment of acute illnesses and injuries, some of which may be life threatening or require immediate medical attention. A good rule to follow is if you feel like your life or limb is in danger, you should immediately go to the nearest emergency room. Emergency Departments experience high wait times because patients are treated based on the severity of their illness or injury, not who came in first. Another distinguishing comparison is cost. On average, an Emergency Department visit is approximately 30-50 percent more costly than a doctor’s office or Urgent Care visit. However, cost should never be considered in the case of true medical emergency. An alternative is going to an Urgent Care clinic. Urgent Care clinics are walk-in medical facilities that provide medical care on a no-appointment basis and are generally open for extended hours, including nights and weekends. Urgent Care clinics are a cost-effective alternative for the treatment of non-life-threatening medical conditions. Some clinics provide basic laboratory and X-ray services and can perform some diagnostic tests. At an Urgent Care, wait times are generally lower in comparison to the Emergency Department and the cost of care at Urgent Care Clinics can be significantly lower. HOW TO CHOOSE AN URGENT CARE? Choose an Urgent Care associated with a hospital or large health care network and one staffed with board certified physicians. Choose an Urgent Care that is also a Family Medicine clinic as they most often have significantly lower co-pays for those with private insurance and often offer generous discounts and prompt payment alternatives for patients who are uninsured. Choose an Urgent Care that offers on-site x-ray, casting, laboratory and advanced testing technology. Become familiar with the Urgent Cares in your area that meet these qualifications—and when the unexpected does happen—you will be prepared and know where to go. When in doubt about the seriousness of an emergency, call 911 and/or get to an Emergency Department as quickly as possible. If you are not experiencing a true emergency, it is strongly recommended you utilize your primary doctor’s office and/or Urgent Care clinic. Expecting the unexpected and understanding your options before you need them can save you time, money and in some cases, your life. All Regional Physicians Urgent Care/Family Medicine clinics have board certified physicians on site and offer lower co-pays with their Family Medicine designation—with three locations conveniently located on Westchester in High Point, Eastchester in North High Point and in Jamestown. Our state-of-the-art facilities offer caring, board certified physicians and providers, on-site x-ray, casting, laboratory and advanced testing technology. All of our Urgent Care locations are open seven days a week to serve you and your family.
For more information on these locations or other Regional Physicians offices, please call (336) 878-MD4U (6348) or visit RegionalPhysicians.com.
Regional Physicians Urgent Care
Regional Physicians Urgent Care Emergency Room
Urgent Care
Illness, injury or trauma that threatens your life or health
Non-life-threatening illness or injury that can not wait for a doctors appointment
Chest pain or pressure*
Sudden loss of vision
Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Migraines or headaches
Seizures or convulsions
Difficulty breathing
Broken bones and sprains
Ear or eye infections
Poisioning or drug overdose
Loss of consciousness
Minor burns or injuries
Accidents for falls
Excessive or uncontrolled bleeding
Fever, colds, flu-like and sinus symptoms
*If you are experiencing chest pain, Call 9-1-1 immediately
When you are hurt or in need of medical attention, quick access to exceptional medical care is important. Regional Physicians Urgent Care/Family Medicine offers access to evening and weekend walk-in medical care, providing acute care for all non-life threatening illnesses and injuries. Our state-of-the-art facilities offer caring board certified physicians and providers, on-site x-ray, casting, laboratory and advanced testing technology.
Visit us at these Regional Physicians Urgent Care Locations URGENT CARE / FAMILY MEDICINE NORTH
URGENT CARE / FAMILY MEDICINE WEST
URGENT CARE / FAMILY MEDICINE JAMESTOWN
2401 Hickswood Road Suite 106 | High Point
1720 Westchester Drive High Point
700 W. Main Street Jamestown
885-9675
883-4296
454-1166
To learn more about our services and locations, visit or call:
RegionalPhysicians.com | (336) 878-MD4U 6 3 4 8
YO U R R E G I O N. YO U R P H YS I C I A N S.
How to Buy Hearing Aids From the Hearing Clinic
“What’s the best hearing aid?” As an audiologist, I can tell you that it depends on a variety of factors, including your degree of hearing loss, listening needs, lifestyle, ear canal shape and size, dexterity, vision, expectations, and your brain’s ability to adapt to sound. What’s right for one individual may not be right for another. Even though millions suffer from
latest “life-changing” hearing technology,
hearing difficulties, too many people
you may also recognize the “bait and
are confused and still unaware of how
Learn from More Experienced Hearing Aid Wearers
switch”: when a company advertises
First-time hearing aid users are looking
to take control of their hearing health.
extremely cheap products with little or
for invisibility and price. For the
Consider these guidelines.
no intention of actually selling them
second purchase, service is a priority.
(i.e., the $495 to $895 hearing aid).
Professional services before, during, and
These techniques generate sales by
after the initial fitting are vital to your
preying on those with hearing loss and
success. Unfortunately, many suppliers
creating an atmosphere of distrust and
do not provide these services, treating
a lack of confidence in all providers.
the hearing aids as any other retail
Focus on the Professional The skill and expertise of the audiologist
will largely determine your success with a new hearing system. Rather than focusing on the technology itself, find a practitioner who will explore all the questions and concerns you have, and allow them to apply their seasoned technological expertise.
Beware of Deceptive Advertising/Marketing In addition to all kinds of ads for the
product. Regularly maintained hearing
The skill and expertise of the audiologist will largely determine your success with a new hearing system.
aids can last between four and five years. Better hearing can reconnect you to your world, and hearing aids can make a significant improvement in your quality of life. With the right hearing aids for your lifestyle, you’re going to love what you hear!
Stay connected. Introducing AGXsp. The Made for iPhone Hearing Aid.
Control your hearing experiences ences with AGX sp, the breakthrough Made for ® iPhone Hearing Aid, and our ur personalized TruL TruLink™ Hearing Control ® app. AGX sp hearing aids are engineered i ed to work with your iPhone, iPad ® ® and iPod touch. That means FaceTime and phone calls, music, videos and more stream directly into your hearing aids with pristine sound quality—no background buzzing and whistling. Try the new Made for iPhone Hearing Aid FREE for 75 days.* Call today.
FREE
AGX sp is designed to: • Stream calls from your iPhone directly to your hearing aids using Bluetooth® 4.0 wireless technology • Deliver pristine sound and exceptional listening clarity • Help you hear comfortably in noise
• 75-day trial* • Hearing screening & consultation • Clean & check of your current hearing aids • Preview the latest technology
• Eliminate buzzing and whistling • Stream FaceTime, music and more directly to your hearing aids
Call Today to Schedule an Appointment! High Point • 801 Lindsay St
336.313.0881
Greensboro • 532 N Elam Ave • 336.245.4864 Asheboro • 328-B N Fayetteville St • 336.308.4758
www.TheHearingClinic.com
HEARING
© 2014 AGX Hearing. All Rights Reserved. *Professional fees may apply. AGXsp and TruLink are compatible with iPhone 5s, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5, iPhone 4s, iPad Air, iPad (4th generation), iPad mini with Retina display, iPad mini, and iPod touch (5th generation). “Made for iPod,” “Made for iPhone,” and “Made for iPad” mean that an electronic accessory has been designed to connect specifically to iPod, iPhone, or iPad, respectively, and has been certified by the developer to meet Apple performance standards. Apple is not responsible for the operation of this device or its compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Please note that the use of this accessory with iPod, iPhone, or iPad may affect wireless performance. Apple, the Apple logo, iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and FaceTime are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.
14 HOW TO GUIDE | 05.02.2014
THE HIGH POINT ENTERPRISE
How to Make a Difference in our Community‌ Volunteer at High Point Regional!
H
igh Point Regional volunteers are working adults, senior citizens, students, homemakers and those from different walks of life who wish to contribute their time, gifts and skills to make a difference in the hospital experience of our patients and visitors. There are numerous volunteer opportunities within our organization; our diversity of services and projects allows you the opportunity to select work that best suits your interests and schedule.
How to become a High Point Regional Volunteer: 1. Visit HighPointRegional.com to complete an online application. 2. Once the application is processed, you will be scheduled for an interview with a member of the Volunteer Services staff. At this time, we will discuss your interests, skills and availability. 3. Attend Volunteer Orientation. This session will cover basic hospital policies and safety procedures, customer service standards and a review of the volunteer handbook. 4. Complete a health screening and schedule specific training for your assigned area. Volunteering not only helps others – it helps you! Our volunteers will be the first to tell you they receive much more than they give. You will make new friends and learn new things along the way. You will receive recognition in many forms. Most importantly, you will become one of the 500 plus volunteers who provide thousands of hours supporting the mission, vision and values of High Point Regional. Volunteers make an impact on our mission to provide exceptional health services. For more information call (336) 878-6888 or visit www.HighPointRegional.com.
We have more than
500 reasons to be
thankful!
Thank you to the hundreds of volunteers who dedicate their time to serving our hospital.
(336) 878-6888 HighPointRegional.com
THE HIGH POINT ENTERPRISE
16 MAY 2, 2014 | HOW TO GUIDE
How to Celebrate your birthday in a unique way From The High Point Enterprise
E
ach year that passes is another opportunity to celebrate a birthday. Traditions like lighting candles on a cake and singing to good fortune are popular, but there are many other ways to celebrate birthdays to set them apart from past celebrations and make them a bit more special. • Plant a tree. Plant a tree on your birthday so you can see how the sapling turns into something impressive year after year. This will mirror your wisdom and growth as each year passes, as well. • Research the day and year you were born. It’s much easier now to tap into history than it was before the Internet came along. With the click of a mouse you can investigate what songs were popular, who was in charge of the country, books that were released and even popular movies of the era. While you are at it, find out which favorite celebrities or other persons of interest were born on the same day as you. • Try something outside of your comfort zone. You may want to try something daring on your birthday, like going bungee jumping or skydiving, or you may prefer something less risky, such as a fashion makeover or riding that new roller coaster at the amusement park. Use your birthday as an excuse to try something that is out of your element. • Book a trip. Be it a one-day jaunt in the car or a week-long vacation, a change of scenery could be the perfect way to celebrate a birthday. If you’re confident and want to travel solo, that is one way to spend undivided “you”
time. However, it may be even more fun to bring a few celebrants along with you. • Create a time capsule. Remember when you wrote notes and sealed up mementos from childhood for a time capsule project at school? You can do the same type of thing on your birthday and then plan to open the capsule in the future. It will be interesting to look back at the styles worn, read your own words, listen to music of the time, and, if you include a newspaper, peruse the paper to study the events that were making headlines all those years ago. • Dine at an exclusive restaurant. It seems celebrities always have a reason to get dressed up and head to the trendiest restaurants. Use your birthday as an excuse to splurge and do the same. Purchase a new outfit and book a reservation at one of the hottest restaurants in your area. Enjoy the evening knowing you are treating yourself to something out of the ordinary. • Send your parents a gift. If it wasn’t for Mom and Dad you wouldn’t be here. While they may periodically and jokingly remind you of the sacrifices they made through the years, keep in mind what they’re saying is probably true. So send your mother a bouquet of flowers and treat your father to a round of golf. • Take the day off from work. Save some personal time to ensure you don’t have to head into work on your birthday. Even if your birthday falls on a Tuesday and you aren’t making a long weekend out of the day off, it’s still fun to take your birthday off from work.
In addition to the cake and candles, there are many other ways you can celebrate your birthday with a bang this year.
• Celebrate by helping others. Birthdays are happy times, and you can share your enthusiasm with others who may not have as much to smile about. Find out if you can volunteer time at a soup kitchen or at a hospital for the day and show others how worthy they are to have the opportunity to spend a birthday with you.
THE HIGH POINT ENTERPRISE
HOW TO GUIDE | MAY 2, 2014 17
How to Recognize cyberbullying From The High Point Enterprise
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efore social media became so prevalent, instances of bullying were somewhat easy to recognize. However, with a good majority of children now engaged in digital networking and social media, bullying may not end with the ringing of the school bell, and evidence of bullying may not be so readily apparent. According to Cyberbullying statistics from the i-SAFE foundation, more than half of adolescents and teens have been bullied online, and about the same number have engaged in cyberbullying. More than 80 percent of teens use a mobile phone regularly, making it the most popular form of technology and a common medium for repeated cyberbullying. Cyberbullying takes place through electronic technology and differs from traditional forms of bullying. Cyberbullying can occur via text messaging, blogging, updates to social media sites and/or phone conversations. What makes cyberbullying more difficult to detect and remedy than traditional bullying is that sometimes this type of bullying is veiled in secrecy. Those who engage in cyberbullying can create aliases and accounts under false names, allowing them to covertly engage in bullying behavior. As a result, tracking down bullies can be challenging. Although cyberbullying is on the rise, there are some things that parents and children can do to help put a stop to such unfortunate instances.
• Parents who feel their child is not emotionally ready for the responsibility of a digital device can hold back on purchasing a smartphone or choose one with very limited features. Some schools set strict limits on phone usage at school, and children who go only from school to home and vice versa may not have the need for an “emergency phone” that can open up a window for trouble. • Adolescents and teens should feel comfortable talking with their parents without the fear of reprimand. Otherwise, they may hide instances of cyberbullying or not know how to broach sensitive topics like bullying. Parents can engage in conversation with their children often and stress that the doors of communication are always open. • Teens should be made aware that cyberbullying is a very real occurrence and is not just other kids “having fun” or “joking.” If behavior is repetitive and hurtful, it should be made public and addressed. • Parents can monitor and limit their children’s personal accounts. Some smartphone and tablet applications can be mirrored on the main account, enabling parents to see incoming text or video messages. • A laptop or desktop computer should be placed in a shared space so that usage can be monitored. Parents can restrict tablet or smartphone usage to public areas. • When online, children should be advised not to share personal information. Social media sites may be used by bullies to gather sensitive information about a person that
Adults should remain diligent in monitoring what kids are doing online. Bullying can take place through digital devices, such as mobile phones.
can be used against them at a later time. Children should be urged to keep passwords secret and to never give information such as birthdays, phone numbers and addresses to people who aren’t close friends. Friend lists should be restricted to only those people students interact with frequently to minimize the chance for bullying or other inappropriate behavior. • Teens who have been bullied can keep evidence of the bullying and may benefit from talking with a counselor. Cyberbullying is a growing concern for educators and parents and has far-reaching implications. Getting smart about this phenomenon can help staunch new cases of
online bullying.
18 MAY 2, 2014 | HOW TO GUIDE
THE HIGH POINT ENTERPRISE
How to
Create an Effective Marketing Strategy From The High Point Enterprise
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n today’s competitive world, you must stand out. When you consider the variety of advertising you see daily-print, television, outdoor, digital and everything else-don’t let it overwhelm you. It all begins with your marketing plan. Developing a strategic plan is crucial. Advertising infrequently, inconsistently or haphazardly typically yields poor results. Conversely, a great plan, well crafted and thorough can prove successful. 1. Big Picture Road Map: Draft a big picture road map incorporating the following: • Annual-events, promotions, holidays, key seasons and branding opportunities • Quarterly-detail the annual plan considering frequency programs • Monthly-implement your tactics, execution and tracking results allow for adjustments and future planning 2. Trends, Cycles, History: Your advertising plan should mirror your sales cycles. In busy months, consider direct respons intitiatives (sales, incentives) for increased sales and market share. Slower months need consistency to breed top of mind awareness for when customers are ready to buy. 3. Inventory: Evaluate inventory, noting top-selling items during key months. Consider marketing those items that will draw in our key customer segment. 4. Repeat the above steps: For different products, product lines or departments. That way, you can develop targeted plans that overlay one another, uncover synergies in advertising and maximize your investment. Integrated plans can become complex but are highly successful.
10 Steps For Creating Effective Print Ads: 1. Make your ads easily recognizable. Consider your graphic elements that will make your ads distinctively different from your competitors and keep a consistent look. 2. Use simple layout. The layout should carry the readers’ eyes from headline to illlustration to explanatory copy to price to store’s name. Avoid using too many different type styles, borders and reverses that are distractive. 3. Use dominant elements. Large photographs and headlines share equal attention-getting value. 4. Use a prominent benefit headline. “What is in it” for the shopper? 5. Let white space work. Give the ad room to breathe with white space as it focuses reader attention on the ad. Too busy of an ad can negate the desired impact, blending it into the page. 6. Make copy complete. Use simple complete sentences with bold face lead ins. 7. State price or range of products. Readers often overestimate omitted prices. If the price is high, explain why it is a good value. If the price is low, support it with factual statesments such as closeout, special purchase or clearance. 8. Specify branded merchandise. If the product in a know brand, it can enhance your store’s reputation. Furthermore, you may qualify for coop from the manufacturer (free money). Include related items. Make two sales instead of one. Include related type products and services.
To develop your marketing strategy today, give the sales team at the High Point Enterprise, Thomasville Times and Archdale-Trinity News a call at 888-3545.
9. Compel readers to buy NOW. Tell them to get out of their chairs and do something! 10. Tell the reader what would make the targeted customer want to buy the product?
THE HIGH POINT ENTERPRISE
HOW TO GUIDE | MAY 2, 2014 19
How to Earn a bigger tax refund next year From The High Point Enterprise
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hile many people owe taxes every April 15, many more individuals eagerly anticipate tax season because they know a refund is coming their way.
Naturally, you may be interested in learning how to tip the odds in your favor for a larger tax refund check. Deductions can reduce your tax bill, and there are many ways for men and women can earn more deductions. The following are a few tips that might help you earn a bigger refund next year. And if you find yourself struggling with your taxes, be sure to consult with an accountant or financial advisor. • Establish a home office. People who work entirely or partially from home may be entitled to certain tax breaks. You may be able to deduct portions of your home utility bills and maintenance costs. You may also be allowed to deduct business expenses, such as office supplies, equipment, furniture, and phone bills.
programs vary from year to year, and it could be in your best interest to learn which programs are being offered to get a greater tax refund. • Look for a job. Unemployment benefits are taxed when they exceed a certain value. If you’re not employed and still collecting, you may have a large tax bill awaiting you if you haven’t been paying taxes on your benefits. Getting a job may reduce your tax debt, and many job-hunting expenses are eligible to be deducted. • Go to school. Various credits and deductions available to students pursuing their education. • Give to charitable organizations. Donations made to charities as well as any items paid for out of pocket to go toward charitable actions can usually be deducted from your tax liability. The more you give, the more you may receive.
• Itemize your deductions. Itemize your deductions instead of taking a standard deduction. While this may be more timeconsuming and require more paperwork and proof of receipts, itemizing often saves taxpayers a substantial amount of money. Charitable donations, student loan interest, childcare payments, and money paid for points on a mortgage all can be itemized and save money on your tax bill. Talk with a tax professional to figure out the best course of action when it comes to deductions.
• File electronically. If you have not yet made the switch to e-filing, next year may be the time to do so. Filing your taxes manually can be tedious and you may be more likely to make mistakes when filing manually. E-filing relies on computer software to guide you through the filing process. Also, electronically filed taxes may result in faster processing and turnaround on your refund.
• Buy a home. Home buyers generally have more living-related deductions than renters. There are many tax benefits to owning a home. In some instances, a homebuyer tax credit may be available for first-time homebuyers. Homeowners also may be eligible for certain tax breaks on home improvements. These
• Use an accountant. Some people think doing their own taxes saves money. However, an accountant is up-to-date on the latest tax rules and regulations and can help clients reduce their tax liability. Accountants may know about lesser-known deductions and many times the cost of the accountant’s services is offset by the higher refund the accountant gets you.
Hope. Help. Healing. The Hayworth Cancer Center provides patients and their families with the best care available during what may be anyone’s most difficult health challenge. Patients who choose the Hayworth Cancer Center can rest assured that they will receive the most comprehensive, personalized care available anywhere. Call us at 336.878.6888 or visit us at HighPointRegional.com
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