How-To Guide June 2012

JUNE 2012

MAINTENANCE >> HOW TO CHOOSE WINDOW TREATMENTS

EMPLOYMENT >> HOW TO CHOOSE A STAFFING AGENCY

HEALTH >> HOW TO KNOW IF DENTAL IMPLANTS ARE RIGHT FOR YOU

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Know If Dental Implants Are Right For You Dental implants are not new technology, Before you are determined to be a good although advancements have made the implants candidate for the procedure, it is essential that more authentic in appearance and given them your dental health be assessed. the ability to fit within the structure of any human jaw.

Numerous individuals suffer from missing teeth within their mouth. This can occur for a number of reasons such as dental procedures and sports accidents. These situations may result with missing teeth or dentures which are less attractive than dental implants.

If you have been forced into being withdrawn and shy because you do not believe you have an attractive smile due to missing or misshapen teeth, dental implants are an excellent procedure that can help to drastically increase your self confidence.

Dental procedures are completed daily in which people are having their teeth removed for various reasons. It can be difficult to be missing one or more teeth within your mouth. It is also be more difficult as chewing is inevitably more of a challenge.

Losing permanent teeth can be devastating, particularly if you are not aware of the options that are available to correct the problem. Dental implants are a wonderful way to get back your life and eat all of the foods that you want instead of worrying whether they are too tough for you to chew.

PAGE 2 ­— HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012

Losing permanent teeth can be devastating. Dental implants are a wonderful way to get back your life and eat all of the foods that you want instead of worrying whether they are too tough for you to chew.

The patient must have healthy gums and bone tissue so that the dental implants will be secured properly. Because numerous implant surgeries rely on healthy tissue and gums in order to support the teeth instead of other roots, gum tissue needs to be properly situated prior to the procedure.

If there is a shortage of gum tissue in the mouth, the procedure is not impossible, but dental bone crafts will need to be placed within the mouth in order to strengthen the area in which the dental implant will be placed. However, it is preferred that the natural tissue be healthy before the beginning of the dental implant procedure.

Smokers or individuals who use other tobacco products will most likely be required to change this part of their lifestyle before they decide to undertake the procedure. Several dental implants can be quite expensive for the majority of people, and smokers are often required to receive multiple implants because their bone and gum tissue is not as strong.

Halting the use of tobacco and quitting smoking has been known to be effective in strengthening the tissue of the mouth within previous smokers.

Quitting smoking is beneficial for both the vitality of the person as well as the health of the teeth so that diseases can be avoided.

Dental implants can be a source of pride and joy for many people, as they are able to begin to feel like themselves again after they are done getting the implants installed.

It is important to note, however, that many of these types of procedures do cost more than a regular visit to the dentist’s office, so you might want to confer with your insurance agent to see if they have some kind of co-pay agreement as it relates to dental implants.

You should also plan on taking a couple of days off of work or school so that you can recover as well as become acclimated with the dental implants.

Get Your Smile Back!

Implants can be attached to a single tooth or to multiple teeth.

Implants can also be attached to a denture or partial.

The implants will help with stabilizing the denture or partial.

Having a full set of teeth again will have a positive impact on your relationships, your career, and your health.

Making a choice to do something with your teeth today will have a big effect on tomorrow.

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1078 Lumpkin Campground Rd., Suite 300 • Dawsonville • www.dawsonvilledentures.com HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012 — PAGE 3

Choose a Hospital When suffering injury or sickness, It is quickly become a large expense. When important to choose the right hospital. choosing a hospital, your insurance coverage may be the top consideration.

With many hospitals, standards of care are very much alike, but for different reasons It is worth considering what other options some hospitals offer better care than others. a hospital offers if location and insurance will When trying to choose the best hospital for you, those reasons need to be investigated.

When identifying which hospital is best, where the hospital is located is an important consideration. In a time of an unforeseen emergency the reason for that is clear, as the only answer is the nearby hospital. For many people only one hospital is close by, so visiting one farther away would be a problem.

For reasons of family and travel time, most people want to be treated in a hospital near their home. Depending on the seriousness of the situation, a hospital which is farther away but offers more specialized care may be a better choice.

Quite often people will choose a hospital where their primary doctor has an affiliation.

Many doctors have referred patients to the same hospital for years, as they are known there and can often see and perform surgery on patients quickly.

Hospitals are categorized as preferred providers by medical insurance companies.

Patients choosing a hospital that is not listed in their medical insurance plan will often pay higher fees than those which are recommended by their insurance company.

Many medical procedures that are needed, such as surgery and convalescent care, can PAGE 4 ­— HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012

Quite o en people will choose a hospital where their primary doctor has an affilia on. Many doctors have referred pa ents to the same hospital for years,

certification in areas such as quality and consistency are well worth considering.

Another way of distinguishing excellence is the Magnet Program, which covers outstanding nursing work and other forms of patient care. It is awarded to select hospitals across the nation, so some are not certified.

If you are able to enter a hospital that has achieved Magnet status, you can expect excellent patient care.

Although it depends on what procedures must be done, selecting a hospital specializing in a particular surgical procedure may be essential.

All kinds of patients needing medical attention arrive at hospitals every day, but many hospitals will specialize in several can o en see and perform areas. Two hospitals within a city may offer similar services, for example, but one might surgery on pa ents quickly. specialize in gastroenterology while another supports an advanced cardiac unit. You not affect your decision. Many hospitals may should know which is which. offer different medical accreditations than others, such as the Joint Commission, or have To ensure quality care, hospitals may achieved high status in treating specialized transfer patients to a more suitable facility. medical procedures.

Depending on the seriousness of an injury or illness, a hospital with more specialized care If a hospital is accredited by the Joint will receive the patient.

Commission, certain areas of quality will To be sure of the best outcome when caring be followed in areas that cover storage management and nursing care practice. for an injury or illness, choosing the right When hospitals receive accreditation by hospital is important. That’s why you should the Joint Commission, they are subjected to know about the strengths of your local frequent evaluation of their standards and hospitals before the need for emergency care keep these standards continuously updated. arises.

as they are known there and

Hospitals which have been awarded

Georgia’s most trusted hands behind every surgery The latest diagnostic services and treatments are only as good as the team performing them. At Northside, our skilled doctors and nurses perform more surgeries than any other hospital in Georgia. We provide a level of experience, knowledge and compassionate care you won’t find anywhere else. Visit us online at www.northside.com.

HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012 — PAGE 5

Choose a Propane Company Many customers have no idea they need to use the services of a propane company until they actually run out of energy in a propane tank or grill. It can be chaotic to try to find a propane company at the last minute that offers reasonable prices and is reliable.

When choosing a propane company, here are some tips to consider: RELIABILITY Reliability is a critical factor to consider when choosing a propane company. You want to choose a company that will work great, even if you are in an emergency situation.

If you rely on propane to heat your entire house, then you will want to form a good relationship with a propane company. If the tank just happens to empty without any warning, then you will have to immediately call a propane company to have them come and fix the problem.

It is a wise choice to find a propane salesperson who treats you with respect and is cooperative. It is also important to consider the reliability of the store owner who sold you a particular propane tank, as well as the reliability of the brand of the propane tank you purchased.

PAGE 6 ­— HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012

PRICE It is a good idea to consider the prices of various tanks and the price required to refill old tanks.

You want to get the best rates possible, but also purchase a propane tank that is high quality and will last for years.

family or other loved ones at risk. You also do not want to waste your money on a service that turned out not to be worthwhile.

It is important to ask a propane salesperson for paperwork that shows they have gone through the training required by the government. Be sure It is a good idea to stick to a budget when to ask if they have the appropriate license and purchasing a propane tank. It is important to certifications they need to sell propane in your trust the person that sold you a tank in the event state. that you need to return or exchange it.

BACKGROUND It is also smart to check with a state agency to make sure no complaints have been filed against the propane company. Because propane If you rely on propane to heat your entire can be dangerous if not properly handled and transported, any signs of carelessness could put house, then you will want to form a good your safety and property at risk. relationship with a propane company.

Every state has an agency which will regulate the propane industry. These agencies have the sole purpose of watching over propane companies to make sure they act within government regulations.

PROPER STANDARDS It is a good idea to check and make sure that There certainly is due diligence required in a propane company has all of the necessary picking the right propane company. But if you paperwork to meet government requirements take your time and pick the right one, you’re and standards. more likely to be satisfied with their service to provide you with good, safe heating for many You want to be sure the actual propane you are years to come. using is safe. You want to make sure a company knows what it is doing, so you do not put your

HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012 — PAGE 7

How to Choose a Window Treatment Store Renovating your windows is possible in a wide variety of ways.

If you are looking for curtains and blinds for your home, you are sure to find something that suits your taste given the vast supply of styles available on the market.

You need to consider a number of factors when deciding on the window treatments to purchase, but it can be difficult to decide exactly which factors are relevant to your situation.

The tips that follow will provide you with a guideline to follow and will make the job a lot easier.

management of sunlight in the home is handled Given the wide variety of window treatment with the use of blinds or drapes, and the regular, fabrics and items available to upgrade your frequent handling of these can take its toll. windows, the ideal treatment store should reflect that variety in its stock so that you can Ensure that the blinds you buy are durable select materials to suit your style. Blinds should and are adequate to perform the job they are designed for. Find out the details of the warranty available for the products you buy.

The supply of materials available at a good store should include both lower priced vinyl as well as the more expensive wooden blind choices.

How much do the treatments cost? Regardless of the product you are buying, this question is one of the most critical one that must be answered.

You should expect to find different prices for the different grades of materials in a quality window treatment store. The supply of materials available at a good store should include both lower priced vinyl as well as the more expensive wooden blind choices.

Another feature to look for is free installation of blinds. Often stores will advertise free professional installation of blinds, so this is a feature you can take advantage of to make your job easier, but keep in mind that the cost of installation will be priced into the materials.

Looking at the total cost of all materials for your window treatment is a critical part of the whole process. Decide if the store provides a variety of material options for you to select from.

PAGE 8 ­— HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012

first be selected to match the window size and decor style of the room being decorated.

The products should have a good warranty as errors may occur during installation and even after installation, the product may be found defective. Details of the warranty and return policy should be properly understood before the items are purchased.

If the purchased window treatments do not blend with the home’s decor it should be possible to switch out items or return everything to the store. Ask about restocking fees, and be sure you know the store’s return policy up front.

When redesigning and renovating your home, you may find the search for window treatments Both shades or blinds are critical elements to be quite enjoyable. Thinking about all the for the shopper to purchase. Take a look at the possibilities can be fun, even if the options can available curtains and draperies so that you can be overwhelming. gauge what is available and so you will be able to make any necessary adjustments in order to It is tricky to assemble the proper combination create a coordinated decor. of curtains, drapes, blinds and accessories, but a great deal of satisfaction is received when the To design the home to remain looking great for overall style comes together as planned. a long time to come, particular attention must be paid to both the quality of the design elements Once you know exactly what you are looking and the quality of the installation. for in window treatments, it is only a matter of time before you locate a good window treatment The materials should last for a long time store that will meet your needs and not start to fall apart after just a few years when they will have to replaced again. The daily

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www.creativewindowsbycarol.com HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012 — PAGE 9

How to Choose a Handgun Choosing a handgun, whether for home enough caliber to put a stop to any threat you for a beginner, but there are good automatics for defense or concealed carry, is a decision which might face. Smaller calibers will work better for novices as well. takes a lot of consideration, a lot of shopping, novice shooters and those who need a smaller and if you’re new to the market, probably a lot weapon outright.

It is more important to have a gun with pointof talking to merchants and other gun owners. and-shoot accuracy instead of sighted accuracy when it comes to self-defense. If you are being Being properly informed is your first step on assaulted, you are probably not going to have Being properly informed is the road to responsible gun ownership. the need to draw a bead on your attacker, nor will you have the time. When you’re shooting your first step on the road to SIZE AND CALIBER for self-defense, you’re usually firing fast and responsible gun ownership.

Whatever your level of ability, there is usually instinctively, so it’s good to have a gun that a handgun on the market that will fit your needs, reflects your firing style. both technically and physically. It’s a good idea to always make sure you physically shop for a WARNINGS handgun at some point, regardless of how you OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER As with any weapon, be familiar with the intend to buy it.

There are a few other important decisions to use and care of your gun before you attempt make when it comes to choosing your handgun to deploy it in a self-defense maneuver. Spend Pistols comes in many shapes, sizes and calibers, to make sure you’re buying the correct weapon. plenty of time with your weapon at the firing and the choice might seem a bit overwhelming. First off, you should be able to operate the range and become familiar with the limitations The first thing you should consider is size. If you weapon easily and without complication. Take of your weapon. aren’t going to be carrying the pistol on your time to learn about the gun you choose, and person, a larger framed pistol will serve you just make sure you know about loading, firing and Responsible gun ownership starts with gun fine. You’ll be able to hold more ammunition in switching the safety on and off before you safety. Always make sure you are handling your the magazine, and your recoil and sighting will be attempt to use the weapon. weapon in a manner that is safe for you and much more manageable. those around you, and never leave your pistol When it comes to handguns, there are two where children can get their hands on it. Always If you’re trying to find a handgun to carry variations: the automatic and the revolver. The treat the weapon like it’s loaded, and never point concealed, a smaller pistol will serve you better. automatics are the typical clip-fed modern at anyone you don’t intend to shoot.

While you won’t have the weight to help absorb handgun and usually come in smaller calibers, recoil, or the longer sight plane, you won’t have also known as “auto calibers.” Automatics are If you have further questions, your local gun to worry about it nearly as much. Most concealed complicated machines and can be trickier to shop will be the place to get answers. Most of the carry guns are designed to be used at close clean and operate than a revolver, but they make time the staff is very passionate about their trade ranges, as well as remain hidden when not in use. up for it by being fast to fire and easy to reload. and will be more than happy to help you select a weapon within your price range and abilities.

Caliber is an important consideration as well.

Revolvers are much simpler machines and Larger caliber weapons will deal more damage have been around a lot longer than automatics.

Remember to ask plenty of questions, and if with every hit, but at the cost of recoil and size of They have a wider range of calibers available, are you don’t quite like the answers, feel free to ask the weapon. While your objective shouldn’t be easier to clean, but firing speed and reload time is other gun shops or gun owners. to kill an attacker, you’ll want to choose a large significantly reduced. A revolver is a good option PAGE 10 ­— HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012

HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012 — PAGE 11

Choose a Dance Studio Culture cannot only be classified as an era in time, a historical landmark and site of the Mona Lisa. Culture is also obtained through expression in theatre and drama, as well as movement of the body with song and dance.

Dance in itself has as many forms as the rainbow has colors, from our beloved classical ballet to our historical Irish Step Dance. When making a decision to enhance one’s dance training and/or theatre education, there are a few things to consider when choosing a performing arts studio.

Just as the reputation of any college or university rests primarily on the caliber of professors who instruct there, so too does a top-notch performing arts studio.

A quality studio will employ well-rounded and experienced instructors who have been performing and teaching movement for years.

Teachers with experience will enjoy the opportunity to pass on their knowledge and love of dance and theatre through the students they teach. The best instructors have been performers themselves, and while perfectly capable of teaching recreational steps and body movement, are equally suited to preparing students for the rigors and pressures of auditions and major productions.

Professional instructors know what’s required under the glare of the klieg lights because they’ve been there themselves.

Of equal importance as tenure and performance experience, is the openmindedness of the instructors. The performing arts, in all its various forms, is not calculus or grammar; there is more than one way of doing things. The arts of dance, theatre and song are by definition the free physical expression of that art form, and any studio employing a “My way or the highway” mentality, with PAGE 12 ­— HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012

instructors who are rigid and unyielding in terms of embracing new ideas, is probably not the best available choice.

Moving beyond the essential characteristics of instructor quality, is the importance of remembering that “variety is the spice of life.”

Clean, spacious and well-lit dance spaces are essential, along with the appropriate changing and dressing facilities. Finer studios will offer state-of-the-art equipment and a wood sprung floor, in essence, a “floating” floor that minimizes impact and helps to reduce the wear, tear and injuries which are all too common in the dancing world.

Ideally, a quality studio will offer a variety of classes, i.e. tap, ballet, jazz, modern, hip-hop, lyrical dance and theatrical dance. At the risk of being spread too thin, some studios will offer adjunct classes beyond the discipline of dance itself. These are all forms of self-expression and culture that could potentially be offered at the proper venue. Any studio offering such a wide range of study taught by quality instructors is most definitely worth a serious look.

Does the studio offer the opportunity to work with outside guest artists and master teachers? An experience instructor is well aware of the advantages a student will gain by studying with other mast teachers. The finer studio will not only encourage their students to study with other qualified instructors, but will provide the venue of study intensive workshops to broaden the education process

of students interested in furthering their artistic career.

Beyond the caliber of instruction and variety of classes offered by a performing arts establishment, is the physical space and location of a studio. It is said that a child will flourish in an environment he or she is comfortable in. Clean, spacious and well-lit dance spaces are essential, along with the appropriate changing and dressing facilities. Finer studios will offer state-ofthe-art equipment and a wood sprung floor, in essence, a “floating” floor that minimizes impact and helps to reduce the wear, tear and injuries which are all too common in the dancing world.

And lastly, it’s important to take into consideration the ultimate achievement level of former students and the instructors. While most budding artists take classes to foster healthy bodies and friendships with others who enjoy the same forms of expression, there is always a certain percentage who aspire to greater heights. Consideration would be given to the performance opportunities available to those who desire to pursue a career in the arts.

The performance experience should exclude any envy or rivalry amongst the corps of performers. On the contrary, during competition performances, the sense of being the best you can be while striving to perform in unison with team members, builds a strong and lasting camaraderie and discipline of teamwork relationships. So too does performance, which incorporates other art forms, including musicians, actors and visual artists such as lighting technicians, build an understanding of confidence, self-esteem and the desire to strive for the best one can be in all aspects of life.

SAWNEE SCHOOL OF BALLET, INC. Joan Kall Stewart, Director PRE-SCHOOL THROUGH PROFESSIONAL

BALLET | POINTE |TAP | JAZZ HIP HOP | CONTEMPORARY/MODERN

REGISTER NOW FOR SUMMER CAMPS & FALL CLASSES!

Home of the Sawnee Ballet Theatre, Inc. www.sawneeballettheatre.org www.sawneeschoolofballet.com

770-887-0756

433 Canton Highway • Suite 312, Cumming, Georgia 30040 HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012 — PAGE 13

Choose a University Choosing an institution of higher education and For example, colleges and universities with a a field of study is probably one of the important specialization in liberal arts regularly demand decisions an individual can make. their students to pursue a broad curriculum, so For a high school senior or graduate, the elective classes are common. experience of choosing a university is a daunting task. Great care and planning must be taken in order for the process and the experience to be as smooth as possible.

As a graduate of high school education, one of the first priorities is find a university that caters towards the needs and expectations of the individual. For example, do you prefer a small intimate environment or a place teeming with people? Your answer to this question determines whether you prefer a big state school or a university with a smaller population, like a liberal arts school.

As a graduate of high school education, one of the first priorities is find a university that caters towards the needs and expectations of the individual.

courses. Online courses provide the advantages of working at a faster pace than the traditional university class.

By choosing the online route, there can be significant savings in tuition, room and board and transportation costs. However, with online classes, it is even more important to choose an institution in good standing because of the lack of personal interaction with the teacher and student.

Another factor that many students consider when choosing a university is the type of social activities. Some universities are known for their greek life. If you are interested in joining a sorority or fraternity, selecting a school with a strong greek system should be a priority.

Also many students find that taking a full courseload of just classes of their specialization to Another criterion to consider is the academic be a stressful endeavor. Therefore elective classes However, many students opt out of greek strengths of each individual school. What is the are useful in rounding out one’s courseload. life so a school with strong extracurriculars is school known for academically? Are they known something to look for as well. Although the main for the areas of your interest? Is it possible to Another thing to consider that many new aspect of a university is to learn, there is still some pursue more than one field of interest? high school graduates headed towards free time to take up a extra activity like a club or a university don’t necessarily consider are alumni intramural sport.

Each school has a strength in some field, be connections. Alumni are very useful in making it the sciences or the humanities. If the school contacts not only for internships, but also for If you like sports, a strong sports program is strong in your field of interest, then the employment after university. or a school that has a lot of pride in their sport opportunities for conferences, internships and activities such as football or basketball is possible employment in your field is higher.

Alumni can also provide insight into your field something to look for as well. of study and how your degree can be useful after In addition to a strong program in your field of graduation in the employment market and not Overall, choosing the right university can be study, there should be plenty of options to pursue just academia. difficult, but the experience of a lifetime is worth other interests as well. At some universities, the work. the option of adding a minor or an additional However, students with commitments outside major is a common option because of the broad of school or those who don’t have a desire to be curriculum. on a campus for a class should consider online

PAGE 14 ­— HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012

HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012 — PAGE 15

Choose The Most Effective Staffing Agency

C

hoosing a staffing agency is a lot like choosing a professional such as a doctor or lawyer. You want an experienced professional, with the capabilities to handle your needs and the capacity to provide an effective solution to your problems quickly and as frequently as necessary.

Look for an agency with a substantial history of service to the community.

This is a good indicator of experience and knowledge, as well as stability and longevity. Another indicator to look for is certification and membership in accredited professional organizations.

You should expect a qualified staff who have expertise in specific employment fields and are familiar with the types of positions and skills that are typically required for individuals who fill those positions.

A significant capability to look for is how the agency determines your needs, develops a solution and provides service.

A clear and comprehensive process for discovering and defining needs and issue is an indication of the thoroughness and quality of the services that will be provided. This process will help reduce costs and provide a deadfit solution that exactly matches your needs. The agency should be able to test applicants and candidates with standardized tests for personality, behavior, aptitude and vocation to determine their skills and skill levels and provide an assessment of how successful these prospective employees might be in a position and how well they would fit into your company. They should also be able to do preemployment assessments which can include background checks on employment history, personal references, criminal record and drug screening.

Additionally, the ability to provide training for candidates to prepare

PAGE 16 ­— HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012

them for a job, as well as training and development for companies to improve their productivity, can have a positive impact on the efficiency and profitability of the client company. Safety training provided to your temporary employee workforce will make them more alert and proactive and can aid in reducing workplace injury and lost productivity as well as contributing positive statistics to your company’s

You should expect a qualified staff who have expertise in specific employment fields. safety record when it is reviewed in inspections and audits. Experience in handling worker’s compensation liability and unemployment insurance are essential as these are recurring issues in any company. Agency staff should be familiar with the governing laws and the state government agencies that oversee these issues, and the agency must have sufficient liability coverages for their temporary and contract employees otherwise the burden will fall back on the hiring company.

“An agency should be able to work with you as if it were your partner. It should have the capability not only to meet your current need, but also have the resources and services available to fulfill your future needs.’’

It is important that a staffing agency

have the capacity to handle the volume of demand for their services - not only from your company, but also from the rest of the agency’s clientele. A local office will have knowledge about the conditions in the local market for hiring companies and temporary workforce. A capability that is an indicator of capacity is the variety of experience and service that an agency can provide. The ability to provide a range and level of services from a single event to multiple projects and locations demonstrate the agency’s flexibility in designing solutions and providing service. The variety of experience with projects and companies can improve the efficiency of determining needs an delivering solutions, which can also reduce both time and costs in designing and implementing a solution. A large menu of services covering a wide range of personnel and human resource functions can be another indicator that an agency has the necessary capacity to handle current volume and future demand.

What are the benefits to your company in using a staffing agency?

• Flexibility - you can upsize or downsize a temporary work-force to match your production requirement and defer all the costs of hiring regular full time employees until you are ready.

• Capacity - you can grow your business faster by taking advantage of this flexibility gained from using an outsourced temporary workforce.

• Savings - you can keep the deferred costs savings for the future or use it to support other business functions.

• Focus - you dedicate your time and resources to your area of expertise running your business; The staffing agency dedicates its time and resources to their area of expertise recruiting and staffing employees to work for your business.

Committed. Trusted. Experienced.

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EOE HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012 — PAGE 17

Choose a Birthing Center If you’re in the market for a birthing center, then you already know the importance of a personalized birthing experience.

Birthing centers, unlike traditional hospital delivery wards, offer comfortable, home-like environments that welcome friends and families.

The staff don’t automatically hook mothers up to IVs, perform unneeded C-sections, or otherwise provide an impersonal medical experience.

Still, not all birthing centers are created equally.

Use the tips below to help choose among the many options.

1. Only choose a licensed birthing center.

There’s one advantage of working with an established maternity hospital: you can be certain that the staff members are well-trained and that all supplies are on hand.

However, it’s easy to find licensed birthing centers: just try a simple Google search for “licensed birthing centers” in your area. You can also call local hospitals for recommendations.

Licenses are issued by state authorities; there is no federal commissioner in the U.S. 2. Ensure that the center is accredited by the Commission for the Accreditation of Birth Centers (CABC). CABC is an independent accreditor of birth centers in the United States.

Staff members grant accreditation to centers that meet standards in the following areas: • Planning • Organization • Administration • Staffing and Personnel • Quality of Services • Facility, Equipment and Supplies • The Health Record • Evaluation of Quality Care • Research PAGE 18 ­— HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012

By choosing a CABC-accredited birthing center, you can be ensured that licensed midwives and nurses will be on hand with top-quality services.

CABC staff checklists have items ranging from

Birthing centers, unlike traditional hospital delivery wards, offer comfortable, home-like environments that welcome friends and families.

the temperature used for linens to paperwork accuracy and emergency exit plans.

Additionally, accredited centers always have doctors on call and arrangements with hospitals for backup duty.

3. Learn about precautions that are taken in case complications arise. Birthing centers outside of hospitals are only to be used for lowrisk births. They are equipped with IVs, infant resuscitation equipment, and other devices to be used in emergencies. However, all mothers and infants might need hospitalization, particularly if a C-section is needed.

Find out the center’s established protocol for handling complications. For example, most birth centers only perform vaginal deliveries and transfer all C-section patients to hospitals. You might prefer one back-up hospital over another.

Also, some centers have emergency doctors in the building at all times, but others only have doctors on call.

Also find out the center’s transfer rate. A transfer rate of 7-12 percentis typical; anything higher could raise questions.

4. Find out the total charges for care and whether insurance will cover the services.

Delivering a baby in a freestanding birth center is usually much more affordable than delivering in a hospital.

That’s because mothers tend to use fewer unneeded services, experience fewer complications, and have shorter stays. Most major insurance providers such as Aetna, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and Humana will pay for birthing center services.

5. Ask how many visitors can be present.

Some birth centers only allow the father or one other visitor to accompany the mother. Others allow additional friends and family to be present during the birth.

6. Check out the amenities. You’ll be interested in two types of extras: those for birthing, and those for general living, recuperating, and bonding with your little one. Many birth centers feature bathtubs, Jacuzzis, or showers for water births. It’s also common to see birthing balls, stools, and other items that make natural childbirth easier.

Of course, you’ll also find that the demeanor of the staff, the décor, and the general layout of each center produce a different feel. Take the time to research a variety of birthing centers.

After all, this is not only the place where you’ll labor, it’s the first world that your newborn baby will experience.

HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012 — PAGE 19

Choose a Community Bank Selecting a bank seems like an easy assignment. Many times the bank we select is chosen because it’s closer to where we live or work. Convenience of location has always been the number one reason customers select a bank. Convenience is important and should be considered when making a banking decision on where to bank. Some banks today offer seven-day a week banking with expanded hours and are open most holidays.

This gives you flexibility to do your banking when it is convenient to you. But, you should expect more from a bank than a good location and hours.

Banks today are technologically superior and offer products that are key elements in selecting a financial institution. What do you need from your bank and what do you expect your bank to provide should be questions asked when making decisions to select a bank.

Suddenly the “free” checking account with no services or options is not as important as being able to access an account and whether you feel comfortable and welcome when you enter or telephone your bank. Are you greeted with a familiar, smiling face? Do they call you by name, do you genuinely feel that the staff cares about you?

Checking products and how they are marketed to customers is another important difference to compare when selecting a bank.

Most banks offer checking products that range from “free” checking to club accounts.

These two types of accounts are the extreme examples of relatively no service or features from a bank with a “free” account and an account with many features that are paid for on a monthly basis.

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Overdraft fees and protection vary from bank to bank as well. No customer wants to be overdrawn, but it happens from time to time and a bank may charge from $15 to $30 dollars per item for an overdraft fee. Know what you’re getting into before you open the account. You may also want to know how to visit with a customer service or bookkeeping person to answer a question or solve a problem. Most community banks have local people handling your problems such as a lost or missing check or even help balance your checking account. If the customer service is available only through a 1-800 number, you might think twice before selecting this bank.

Lending is another product that customers expect and need from banks. Most people need a loan for a car, business or home and rely on their bank to provide this service.

All banks make loans, but their process of approving an application may differ. How they handle a customer may differ, if they keep the loan or sell it to another financial institution. These questions may not seem important when you open an account at a bank but when you need a loan it will matter.

Most local banks make decisions locally and have continuity in their lending staff as officers move up through the ranks in the same bank. This allows you to keep the same loan officer as you grow with the bank.

In a regional bank the decisions many times are made in the lending centers where applications are sent. They use formulas and credit scores to approve loans. The loan officer for a regional bank may work in the community for a few years and move to another community for a few years and move

to another community as they are promoted within the bank’s system.

Comparing interest rates and fees are also important in deciding on a bank as banks may differ. This would include document preparation fees, late fees, extension fees, and other fees that might relate to the type of loan you are requesting. Rates and fees are disclosed and can be compared before designing a loan application. It’s good policy to always ask what the fees and rates on a loan are before applying. Bankers do like customers who are concerned about lower rates and fees as they feel the customer will pay the loan back.

The location(s) of your bank is important.

But also be sure to consider the technology the bank has installed and the products you might use such as banking with your personal computer, checking services, researching a problem, or just working with a loan officer to get a fair loan at a competitive interest rate with reasonable fees. These factors will help you to know your money is secure, and have access to it when it counts.

Last, but not least, is community involvement. In today’s hectic and sometimes seemingly uncaring world, it is refreshing to see and know that a bank and its staff are involved in your community and care. Also it is good to know that your money is being invested in your community. Community reinvestment and support are crucial to most areas. Is the bank involved in your community; are they not only giving financial support, but seen actively working for and in the community?

Member FDIC *BauerFinancial, located in Coral Gables, Florida, is the nation’s leading independent bank and credit union rating and research firm and has been reporting on and analyzing the performance of U.S. banks and credit unions since 1983. No institution pays Bauer Financial to rate it, nor can any choose to be excluded.

HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012 — PAGE 21

Get Started in Knitting Knitting involves creating a series of loops with securely on the needle. You should have two transferring each to the right. When the last two needles. For many people it is a hobby that stitches remaining on the left needle (the slip stitch has been transferred, you will have is very relaxing. Before you embark on your first knot counts as a stitch). completed one row of knitting. project it’s a good idea to practice on a simple 5. Insert the point of the right needle from front 3. Your next step is to measure your project. If it is block. to back into the stitch just completed and too wide, you can adjust by starting over and Visit a sewing store and buy a skein of thick under the left needle. Repeat the steps until casting on fewer stitches, or if it’s too short, worsted yarn and a pair of straight knitting you can start over and cast on more stitches. needles, size 10 or larger. Wind the yarn into 4. When you have knitted the desired width, you a loose ball to keep it from becoming tangled. can start another row. Turn the right needle Visit a sewing store and buy a skein Before you begin, make sure you have a pair of and hold it in your left hand. With the other scissors, a yarn needle with a large eye, and a needle in your right hand, repeat the steps of thick worsted yarn and a pair of tape measure nearby. of knitting the first row with each stitch. You straight knitting needles. Before you will once again take the needle with stitches Casting On in your left hand and work another row of knit begin, make sure you have a pair of Casting on is the technique of placing stitches stitches straight across. Repeat by making scissors, a yarn needle with a large of yarn onto a needle so that you can begin rows of knit stitches until you have reached knitting. (It is best not to make the stitches too your desired length. eye, and a tape measure nearby. tight.)

1. Make a slip knot on the shaft of one needle for Binding OFF your first stitch. Put the needle with the stitch To complete your block of knitting, you will in your left hand and hold the other needle in need to bind off all the stitches. Begin by knitting your right hand to position the yarn. Insert the you have 25 stitches (or the number needed the first two stitches. Insert the left needle into end of the right needle from front to back into for your desired width) on the left needle. the stitch you knitted first and pull it over the the slipknot and under the left needle.

This completes your cast-on row, which is the second stitch and completely off the needle. One 2. Holding the left needle in your left hand, foundation for all knitting projects. stitch is now bound off. move your left fingers over to secure the right Knit another stitch and insert the left needle needle. Using your right index finger, pick up First Knit rOw into the first stitch on the right needle and pull a strand of yarn from the ball. Release your 1. Hold the needle with stitches in your left hand it over the new stitch and completely off the right hand grip on the needle and use your and insert the point of the right needle in the needle. This binds off another stitch. Repeat the index finger to bring the yarn under and over first stitch from front to back just as you did in steps until one stitch remains. the point of the right needle. casting on. With your right index finger pull Cut the yarn from the ball leaving a six-inch end.

3. Using your right fingers on the right needle, yarn from the ball under and over the point Pull the end up with the needle and through the pull the yarn through the stitch with the point of the right needle. Draw the yarn through the last stitch to secure it. Thread the yarn end into a of the right needle. stitch with the right needle point. yarn needle and weave it into several stitches to 4. Push the point of the left needle into the back 2. Slip the loop on the left needle off so that the make it secure. of the new stitch and remove the right needle. new stitch is on the right needle. Repeat the Slowly pull the yarn ball to make the stitch fit steps with each stitch still on the left needle, Copyright © 2005 Publishers-Edge

PAGE 22 ­— HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012

Cumming’s Only Specialty Yarn Shop

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• Novelty Yarn’s Galore • Accessories & Everything to do with Yarn!

HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012 — PAGE 23

Dedicated to All Better

and

Proudly Sponsor

The Annual Thomas-Mashburn

4th of July

Steam Engine Parade Wednesday, July 4th at lO:OOam.

For information, please contact one of the following: Cindy Hansard (770) 887-0516 Amy Webb (770) 889-6103 PAGE 24 ­— HOW TO GUIDE — JUNE 2012