September 19, 2010
ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT
HOW-TO GUIDE
Table of Contents Page 3 - How To Choose a Storage Facility Page 4 - How To Choose an Assisted Living Facility Page 6 - How To Choose an Orthodontist Page 8 - How To Get Rid of Varicose Veins Page 11 - How To Choose a Doctor Page 13 - How To Choose a Dentist Page 14 - How To Choose a Pharmacist Page 16 - How To Choose a Hospital Page 18 - How To Choose a Mortgage Lender Page 20 - How To Choose a HVAC Company Page 22 - How To Look 10 Years Younger Page 25 - How To Start a Business Page 27 - How To Choose a Carpet Store Page 28 - How To Choose a Jeweler Page 30 - How To Choose a Boat Dealer
Page 32 - How To Choose a Home Improvement Center Page 34 - How To Avoid Knee Surgery Page 37 - How To Choose a Community College Page 38 - How To Choose a Physical Therapist Page 40 - How To Choose a RV Dealer Page 42 - How To Choose a Caterer Page 44 - How To Choose a Financial Institution Page 46 - How To Protect Your Legal Needs as You Age Page 48 - How To Choose Window Treatments Page 50 - How To Choose a Chiropractor Page 52 - How To Choose a Fitness Center Page 55 - How To Choose a Health Mobility Company
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HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose a Storage Building siding to log siding and vinyl siding, you’ll find there are no limits to customizing a building that is just right for you. The biggest surprise for many buyers is all the choices for the exterior style. From shutters and windows to trim and roof color, you'll find lots of different options that can make your storage building look like a cute cottage, a rugged cabin, portable garage or a classic American barn.
Picking a storage building may seem straightforward, but the sheer number of choices available can make it tough to make a smart decision. In fact, if you haven't, you may be surprised at all the options available. From the materials and construction to appearance and size, there is a wide range of choices that can suit any budget — but you want to make sure it's a building that can meet your needs for the long term.
CONSTRUCTION The first thing you'll want to consider is how the building is constructed. Unlike regular houses — which are usually covered by standardized building codes to ensure consistent quality — storage buildings can vary widely in how they're put together. The very best storage buildings are built just as strong, if not stronger, than the home you live in. You'll want to look closely at the roof to know what kind of shingles, decking and trusses are used because any corners that are cut here could lead to water damage over time. Also watch for the pitch of the roof. The steeper pitches not only shed water and snow better but also gives you more value with more usable storage space inside. You should also look at the doors and walls to see how they're constructed and how sturdy they feel, including what type of hardware come with the doors. Does it have a good interior latches as well as a secure key-lockable outside
latch? For the flooring, make sure your storage building has thick decking and a joist system designed to eliminate sagging. Most people put heavy equipment like lawnmowers in their storage sheds, or pull their vehicles, ATV toys, and compact tractors into a portable garage. So it's critical to use a well-built floor if your building is going to last. DESIGN Next, you'll want to look at how the building is designed, both from an appearance and usability standpoint. How much you enjoy your storage building will largely be dictated by how well it's laid out. If you plan to use it as a
garden shed, you'll probably want windows to let in sunlight, for example, or take advantage of ridgelite which is available in many roof designs. If you plan to use it to store a car, then a garage door option is a must. The door location, floorplan and overall space can differ greatly from building to building, so you should also think about your site plan when picking the design. It is also important to design a proper space for your building to sit on. A long, narrow shed will look and feel very different from a short, wide one, so think about what you plan to store in the building and which layout would work best for your needs. Finally, from the standard
THE RETAILER Finally, where you purchase your storage building can make a big difference in the overall experience. Do they offer options that you need? Would they come back and move your building if you need it? Do they stand behind their product? Do they have experience? Some dealers offer a rent-toown program, which can be a great way to pay for your
building over time. Instead of paying a monthly fee for offsite storage, you can spend a comparable amount of money to rent a storage building on your own premises. A portion of each monthly payment is applied toward the purchase price if you decide to buy. You will also want to find out about delivery and assembly. Some companies prefer to assemble the building on your property, but you'll get more consistent quality from a company that builds its structures in a qualitycontrolled environment offsite. Otherwise, the quality of your building could depend on which crew happens to be working and available that day. If you get all these things right — the quality, design and sales process — you're sure to get a building that will meet your needs for many years to come.
The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 3
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose an Assisted Living Community resident receives an additional charge for services. In general, this is less expensive than either nursing home care or care in an individual’s home.
Approximately one million Americans of various ages and income levels live in an assisted living community. Most people living in assisted living communities need help with activities of daily living or are coping with a memory disorder. Common activities of daily living that require assistance include; bathing, dressing, eating, transferring, and medication reminders. Generally, assisted living is considered to be an appropriate alternative for those who are unable to live on their own but are not in need of nursing home care.
VARIETY IS TYPICAL Although these communities are residential, a classic model does not exist because the needs and preferences of those who live in them vary widely. They include high-rise apartments, newly constructed buildings, renovated schools and converted Victorian homes. They can also be freestanding or combined with nursing-care or independent living communities. The type of apartment may vary but most communities offer studio apartments, one-bedroom apartments, and two bedroom apartments. Many communities include a kitchenette in each apartment. An assisted living community
may have anywhere from 12 to 100 units and include areas for group dining, socializing, and recreational activities. Both non-profit and forprofit organizations own and operate assisted living facilities,
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and the cost may range from $380 to more than $4,000 per month, based in part on where the community is located within the United States. In some cases, the fees are all-inclusive, and in others, the
CHOOSING THE RIGHT FACILITY If you or a loved one needs assisted living, you can begin by contacting your Area Agency on Aging for a list of local facilities. Try to find out if complaints have been filed against any of them through your local ombudsman, and determine the price range that fits your budget. Then, visit the community in person or if you have access to a computer, visit their Web sites for more information. Note that many Web sites will provide an online tour or display the floor plan of the community. While you are online, you may be able to view the facility’s activity calendar to see how it fits in with the things that are important to you, such as transportation to nearby houses of worship and cultural events, guest speakers, and various hobbies. A geriatric care manager can be consulted but will charge anywhere from $60 to $150 per hour. Ideally, this individual will be familiar with the cost, staff, and amenities of all assisted living communities in your area. You will discuss what
you and your loved one hope to find, along with what fits your budget. You will also be given communities that you can visit in person. Remember that choosing a community “sight unseen” is really not an option, but you may be able to narrow down your list by researching ahead of time. If time does not allow researching communities, choose a community based on how you feel when you walk in the building; do you feel safe, secure and comfortable? Do you have a personal connection with someone working or living in the community? Does the reputation meet your standards? Does it feel like home to you? A personal visit is really the only way in which you can assess the facility’s daily routine, the atmosphere, the staff’s personalities, and the morale of those who live there. Choosing an assisted living community for you or your loved one is a very important decision; a decision which is often happening at a difficult time in one’s life. It is important to use all the resources that are available and ask as many questions as possible.
The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 5
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose an Orthodontist
One of the best ways to make a positive first impression to other people is with a great smile. Your smile is not only an important part of who you are, but it is also an extremely effective witness to the quality of orthodontic care you have received. Choosing the right orthodontist is vitally important if you want to make sure your smile will dazzle people you meet for years to come. “It is very important to choose an orthodontist who communicates well with the patient and parent”, said Dr. Kyle Childers, of Childers Orthodontics. “In my office, parents are always welcome in our clinic area. Our team enjoys getting to know our patient families. We want our patients to experience some memorable and fun times throughout their treatment process”. One of the most effective sources of information about orthodontists is to seek out and talk to people who are currently under orthodontic care or have had braces recently. People who
have had exceptional care will be able to direct you to a local source that can hopefully provide you the same service. Conversely, if they have had bad experiences, they can tell you things to watch out for. You should be able to get advice on things beyond just the braces themselves, but also on how the doctor and staff treat their patients and the level of comfort they can provide in the process. Think of questions you would want to know about any medical professional before you were to visit them for the first time and see what information they can provide. Questions about staff courtesy, cost, availability and the doctor’s ongoing education can go a long way to helping you make an informed choice. “Keeping up with the newest trends in technology does take some time. I usually spend at least four weeks a year in continuing education courses”, Childers said. Once you have gathered some potential names, there is a
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wealth of information you can investigate to narrow down your selection of orthodontists. Make sure the doctors you are considering are not merely dentists, but that they are a specialist in orthodontics. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) includes only doctors who are specialists in orthodontics. Their Web site can be found at www.braces.org and can provide more information. Checking to see if they are certified will give you further peace of mind that the doctor has gone through the process of maintaining proficiency in their specialized field. “Be sure to seek an orthodontist who is current with the newest technology”, Childers said. “ Many new advances have been made to reduce the number of visits and the amount of time missing school and/or work. Computer aided treatment, such as Suresmile, consistently reduces the number of visits and treatment time by 30% or more, while improving the overall quality of the results”. Talking to your regular dentist, even if he or she is not an orthodontic specialist, can also be valuable. Most dentists can make referrals to specialists that they approve of, many of whom they have worked with personally. “One of the biggest misconceptions is that a dentist referral is needed to see an orthodontist”, Childers said. “That is absolutely not true, however, it’s best to be up-todate with your dental cleanings and check-ups”. If you have established a good relationship with your dentist,
you can hopefully be confident that they will direct you to an orthodontist who not only will take great care of your teeth, but also provide the level of customer service that your dentist provides on a regular basis. A dentist knows that any referrals they make will be passed along through word-ofmouth, so they will take care to give you local options that you can trust. For those with dental insurance, once a list of potential care providers has been formulated, you will want to check and see which ones are
on a list of preferred providers for your insurance. Orthodontists on this list have agreed to provide care at a reasonable and customary price level. There is no guarantee about the quality of care, however, so this information should be combined with other research and recommendations you have acquired. With the right orthodontist, you'll hopefully be smiling through the whole process.
Creating Brilliant Smiles throughout Southern Illinois
Dr. Kyle Childers Member of the American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association. Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics
Orthodontics enhances a person’s health as well as adds to self esteem & confidence. Knowing each individual case is unique, we will take the time to discuss your needs and expectations.
Why SureSmile will have you smiling even before your braces come off!
• Clear, virtually invisable aligners • Removable • Used successfully by over 500,000 patients • Now Offering Invisalign /teen Call for details!
• Shorter treatment times • Fewer office visits • Less overall discomfort
Visit us at www.childersbraces.com and on Facebook Herrin, IL
Benton, IL
Harrisburg, IL
618-997-1800
618-438-2815
618-252-0770
The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 7
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Get Rid of Tired, Ugly Legs Tom Critchlow M.D., founder of The Vein & Esthetic Centre has been treating vein problems for over 35 years and has seen and participated in the many changes in the treatment of venous disorders. “The four great innovations that I have seen that have revolutionized the treatment of venous problems are the duplex scan, endovenous ablation of the great saphenous vein instead of stripping it, the use of microphlebectomies and sclerotherapy.”
One of the myths surrounding varicose veins is that they are mostly asymptomatic and not a medical problem. Certainly not all leg problems are caused by varicose veins, but many are. Some people who have varicose veins do not have symptoms, but most do. Some people have symptoms caused by varicose veins, but have few if any veins visible. The symptoms caused by varicose veins can be a dull aching pain, swelling, itching, burning or stinging, a tired fatigued feeling, skin discolorization, changes in skin texture or even an ulcer or sore in the skin. Restless leg syndrome is often associated with varicose or spider veins. These symptoms are worse at the end of the day, particularly after prolonged standing or sitting. They are worse for women around their menstrual cycle or in warmer weather. They are often relieved by elevating your legs or wearing compressive stockings. The problem is so common and the symptoms begin so gradually over a period of time, that many patients as well as their physicians feel that having these symptoms is natural and “just the way my legs feel.
DUPLEX SCAN: A duplex scan allows your physician to use ultrasound to look at your veins and understand which ones are causing your problems without using needles or dye. ENDOVENOUS ABLATION: This procedure has replaced the old stripping operation. Now the procedure is done in a physician’s office under local anesthesia with minimal, if any downtime, minimal discomfort, no incisions and a very low recurrence rate. The procedure is performed with either a laser or a radio frequency device and simply closes the malfunctioning vein, allowing it to be absorbed by the body instead of ripping it out as was done with the stripping procedure.
This doesn’t have to be. Another myth about varicose veins is that the cure is worse than the disease. This may have had some truth to it in the past. The old “stripping operation”
for varicose veins required a general anesthetic, several weeks of bed rest in a hospital, was painful, not cosmetically
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pleasing and had a significant recurrence rate. This is not the case today.
MICROPHLEBECTOMIES: Previously the veins remaining after a stripping procedure were removed thru large, several inch long incisions. There could be as many as 10-20 incisions on a
leg. This was not only quite painful, but extremely disfiguring. Today these remaining veins are removed using micro incisions, a few millimeters long that are nearly painless and usually impossible to find after a few months. SCLEROTHERAPY: Although sclerotherapy has been used to close veins since the Ancient Greeks, there has been a resurgence of its use with modern medicine. Dr. Critchlow, who has been injecting veins for over 25 years, has seen an increasing use for sclerotherapy in his practice. “Initially sclerotherapy was used as a technique to cosmetically eradicate spider veins, but today with the newer foaming techniques combined with duplex visualization, deeper medically significant veins can often be treated with sclerotherapy that would otherwise require an operation. There are a lot of new options for patients”. So if you are one of those people that suffer from leg problems caused by varicose veins, there are new techniques available to correct those problems that are performed in a physician’s office, are minimally invasive, with minimal downtime, cosmetically pleasing with excellent results. You don’t have to suffer like your momma did!
The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 9
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HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose a Doctor Everyone needs a doctor from time to time, but choosing the right doctor for your needs can be difficult. There are a few things to consider before making your choice that will help in the decision-making process. The first place to start in choosing the right doctor is to check with your insurance company or employer. Insurance companies often require participants to choose a primary care physician (PCP) within their network. If you are covered by insurance, you will find that many insurance companies provide certain doctors within their network who have agreed to certain requirements. If you choose a doctor outside your insurance company's network, you may not be covered or your payment responsibilities may vary significantly. Your insurance may require that a PCP in their network is responsible for your medical care and must make any referrals that are needed for you to see a specialist. If there are no limitations on which doctor you are able to see, you can easily look through the local newspaper or phone book yellow pages. There are also on-line directories available. You will want to choose a family physician or an internist who provides general care for common ailments and who can help you manage multiple conditions. Mid-level practitioners such as physician assistants or nurse practitioners work under the supervision of a physician and are also good choices for primary care. You may also need to choose a doctor who specializes in a certain area of medicine. A woman may want to choose
your doctor to see if x-rays and laboratory tests are performed at the doctor's office. Some doctor's offices do not provide these services and you will have to visit a separate facility to receive these services. Most doctors' offices stay very busy and have few openings. You should check to see how long it will take to schedule an appointment and if you should have an urgent need whether you could be seen that same day. One last consideration to make is that most doctors' offices do process insurance claims for you as a convenience. However, there are some who require an upfront payment for services at the time services are rendered, and it is up to you to file the claim with the insurance company. If you do not want the hassle of filing your own insurance claims, make sure the doctor you choose will process insurance claims.
an obstetrician/gynecologist to care for her specific conditions. Parents may want to choose a family physician or pediatrician for their children. Adults may want to choose an internal medicine physician. All of these physicians are considered primary care physicians. Another helpful tip in choosing a doctor is to get referrals from friends and family. Almost everyone has a
doctor and will be more than willing to share their experiences. Once you've chosen some possible doctors you feel will meet your needs, you should call them to see if they are accepting new patients and if they will accept your insurance. They may be able to send you information about their practice. There are other factors to
consider when choosing a doctor. You should make sure the doctor's office is conveniently located and easily accessible. You should also make sure the doctor is associated with the hospital that you are comfortable with should the need arise. It can be an uncomfortable feeling to need hospital care in a place in which you are not familiar. You may want to check with
SHAWNEE HEALTH SERVICE Nancy Muzzarelli, Director of Community Outreach for Shawnee Health Service, reports that the Shawnee Community Health Centers in Carbondale, Murphysboro, Marion and Carterville provide high quality, affordable medical, dental and behavioral health services that meet or exceed the expectations outlined in this article. Services are available to everyone both with and without insurance. You are welcome to call 618985-8221 for more information or visit Shawnee’s web site at www.shsdc.org.
The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 11
Creating Beautiful
Smiles Daily Most dental services are performed in our office. We also provide: Dental Implants Laser Dentistry Cosmetic Dentistry Invisalign Oral Surgery
Dentures I.V. Conscious Sedation Botox & Dermal Fillers Gum Disease Treatment Affordable Payment Plans!
Here are a couple comments we received recently from our patients: “My wife and I moved down to southern Illinois after we retired. When we moved here we felt we would be leaving the brightest young dentist behind in Chicago. To our surpise and relief we actually found the best young dentist in the state. We have had numerous procedures done from teeth implants to root canals and all this done flawless and painless. We always feel that we are in good hands and receiving the best professional care possible.” - Ray & Mary K
“After bad dental experiences as a child, I had avoided regular dental visits. My wife saw and advertisement for Hughes Dental Arts Centre that offered IV sedation. She knew I wanted dental work done, but was very apprehensive. She called and explained my fears and reservations, asking if they could treat a patient like me. Next thing I know, I had an appointment set up! My initial visit couldn’t have been better. I was treated with complete understanding and respect by Dr. Hughes and his staff. There was even a little humor at times! Dr. Hughes developed a plan for my treatment and I am actually excited about the next step. Thank you Dr. Hughes and staff for everything.”
-Ross W.
Dr. Christopher Hughes is a credentialed member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. He is the ONLY general dentist in Southern Illinois providing IV conscious sedation and also the ONLY Southern Illinois dentist to surgically place and restore dental implants. This makes implant dentistry more convenient and consistent for you!
www.hughesdentalarts.com Page 12 Sunday, September 19, 2010 The Southern Illinoisan
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose a Dentist It hasn't always been that people have had a choice as to who cleans, x-rays, and rebuilds their teeth. The world of dentistry has improved by leaps and bounds in the past few decades, and now your dentist is a friend and ally for you and your gorgeous smile. Choosing a dentist who is right for you should be based on more than just a quick glance in the phone book. A good place to start on your hunt for a quality dentist is location. Accessibility is very important when searching for a person you will be seeing (hopefully!) on a semi-annual basis. It is a good idea to look for a dentist who is located in close proximity to your home or office and that you feel comfortable commuting to their office. In addition to location, their hours of operation must fit in with your schedule. Many offices now offer early morning or late afternoon/evening appointments. Nowadays, you can judge a lot about a company by their Web site, so scour the Internet for a dentist that has a well put together and informative Web page for their practice. A well put together Web site shows that the dentist is committed to their patients. It can also give you valuable insight to what their practice offers and if it will potentially be a good fit for you. Important things to note while reading a dentist's Web page include the office hours, and any specialized training or credentials the doctor has received. The specifics for finding the right dentist to suit your special dental health needs will vary from patient to patient and should be addressed individually with your dentist prior to your first appointment. Professionalism is a top priority to a quality dentist. Don't be afraid to ask about their policies and procedures concerning patients with phobias or other dental difficulties.
Many will offer a free consultation prior to your first appointment. Whatever the situation with your teeth, make sure your potential dentist graduated with a dental degree from a reputable school, carries up to date dental insurance, and keeps up with the latest trends and technologies in dental care. A superior dentist continues their education the entire time they are practicing to be sure that they are providing their patients with the cutting edge in dental care. Once you have narrowed down your search to a few top candidates, get ready to ask questions about payment and financial policies. If you have dental insurance, your first priority should be to check to see if your potential dentist accepts your plan. If you do not have dental insurance, look into what kind of payment plans are offered by the business. In a similar manner, different dental offices handle dental insurance issues in various ways. The first appointment with a new dentist should be a trial run. Personality is a huge contender in who you end up saying "aaah" for, so if you don't feel comfortable after the first appointment, start looking for someone else. Part of a dentist’s job is to put the patient at ease and calm any fear they may have about the upcoming procedure. This includes the staff at the office as well, from the dental hygienists to the administrative assistances. Your dentist's office should be a place where you feel safe and well taken care of, so don't underestimate the importance of friendly and helpful service across the board. Don't sell your pearly whites short. Choose a dentist who makes you smile today.
The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 13
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose a Pharmacist for everything, the pharmacist will know each and every drug that you are using, and whether or not combining certain drugs will have adverse effects. “This can prevent duplications which could lend to overmedication or detect interactions that could occur”, Mattingly said. You should feel comfortable enough with your pharmacist to be willing to ask questions about your medications and prescriptions. Some pharmacies allow one-on-one consultations with the pharmacists, while others may not offer such private options. If privacy is a factor for you, you will want to keep that in consideration. ”The goal is to know what your medication is for, how to take it and possible side effects that may occur. Knowledge is power from the patient’s perspective”, Mattingly said.
It's not uncommon for a person to spend a lot of time researching and looking for the right doctor or medical professional. Choosing the right pharmacist is equally important for a number of reasons. Although a pharmacist cannot diagnose a medical condition, they can explain how certain medications will affect an individual. It is a good idea to take the time to find the perfect pharmacy that best fits your individual needs. When deciding upon a pharmacist, here are some specific things to look for that may help make your decision easier: LOCATION, HOURS One of the first things to factor in when choosing a pharmacist is the location and hours of the pharmacy. You don't want it to be inconvenient or seem like a chore when needing to use a pharmacy. By picking a pharmacy that is located in close proximity to either your home or place of work it will be easy to find time to stop buy and pick up any medication you may need. Be sure that the hours of operation fit into your schedule or you may have a hard time finding a chance to get your prescriptions. Does the pharmacy offer prescription delivery, a necessity for shut-ins, or a drive up window for convenience to the customer with small children? “When we remodeled our store a couple years ago, we added a drivethru to allow doing business
with us to be more convenient”, said David Mattingly, owner of Herrin Drug. If you have a number of available pharmacies in close proximity, then you may want to ask friends or family members if they have any recommendations. You may even want to consider asking
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your doctor if he or she has a pharmacist that they would recommend. Good recommendations can go a long way when looking for the right pharmacist for your medicine needs. “Between myself and our 3 pharmacy technicians, we have a combined 65 years of experience to offer our
customers”, Mattingly said. DRUG EFFECTS Trusting a pharmacist with all of your prescriptions is very important as well. Some people have a number of different pharmacies in which they use, which is not really the best idea. By using the same pharmacy
VACCINATIONS Other factors to consider that may or may not be beneficial to you personally are whether or not the pharmacy you choose offers seasonal vaccinations like the flu shot. “We offer flu vaccinations as a service to our customers in an effort to alleviate multiple trips for them” Mattingly added. Finding a pharmacist you can trust with all of your prescription needs is just as important as finding a good doctor. By using these tips you should be well on your way to finding the perfect pharmacist for all of your pharmacy needs.
The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 15
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose a Hospital
When you become sick or injured, choosing the right hospital is an important decision. The standard of care at many hospitals is relatively similar, but there are some hospitals that are better than others for various reasons. These reasons need to be examined when deciding which hospital is the right one for you. The location of the hospital is one of the most important factors to consider when identifying which hospital is right. The reason for this is clear: in times of emergency, the closest hospital is the only answer. Some people live in cities that only have one hospital that is located nearby, and to visit another means traveling to get there. Many people wish to be treated at a location that is close to where they live for the
purposes of family and travel. If there is time to choose, a hospital that is not close to home but that offers specialty services may be the better choice. This is the reason you must be informed of the services the hospitals in your area offer. Many people choose a hospital based on where their doctor has privileges. Some doctors will refer patients to a particular hospital because they are well known at that location and they are able to perform surgery or see patients there. “Most physicians in southern Illinois have privileges at most, if not all, of Southern Illinois Healthcare’s hospitals”, said Cheryl Benn, Director of Corporate Communications for Southern Illinois Healthcare. Most insurance plans cover the cost of preferred providers, and hospitals fall into this category. You may pay more to
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receive care at a hospital that is not listed with your insurance company than to go to one that is preferred. It is very important that you know which hospitals accept the insurances you are covered by. If your choice of hospital is not based on location or insurance, consider other options that a hospital may have to offer. Many hospitals offer accreditation with the Joint Commission, which is an organization that implements standards of care within certain facilities. If the Joint Commission accredits a hospital, they will be following certain levels of quality in areas that range from nursing care practice to storage organization. Hospitals that are accredited by the Joint Commission are subject to frequent evaluations of their standards, and continuously keep these standards updated.
Consider hospitals that have won awards or have received certification in areas of quality and consistency. Depending on what procedure needs to be done, choosing a hospital that specializes in particular areas of surgery or medical care may be necessary. “With 3 hospitals servicing southern Illinois, patients not only have options on where to go, but have most of the specialty care available to them right here at home”, Benn said. Many hospitals care for all kinds of patients that come through their doors, but have several areas of specialty care. For example, two hospitals in the same city may offer services, but one specializes in gastroenterology, while another has an advanced cardiac unit. The hospitals may even transfer patients between
locations to ensure the best care. Depending on the level of care and particular illness or injury, the choice of hospital may go to the one with the specialty unit. Choosing a hospital is an important process to ensure the best outcome for care of illness or injury. Hospitals offer different services and levels of assistance, and there are several factors to be considered when making a choice. You must make sure the hospital you choose is going to be able to offer you the level of care you require. Determining what opportunities are available and what is most important is crucial in making a decision of where to go for care.
The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 17
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose a Mortgage Lender Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you will ever make. It requires a team approach among the buyer, seller, real estate agent and the lender. Here are some key points to consider when choosing a mortgage lender.
qualifies. Benefits include no mortgage insurance, no reserves, no limit on contributions or a gift and much more, but not all lenders have access to this valuable loan opportunity. Be sure to ask!
COMPETITIVE RATES PRE-QUALIFICATION Before you start house hunting it is wise to determine your price range. This can be done through the simple process of pre-qualification. To become pre-qualified, a mortgage lending specialist should use the financial information you provide to estimate the maximum mortgage you should be able to obtain. The process doesn’t guarantee that your mortgage application will be accepted, but it does help you narrow your search to homes you can afford. It can also strengthen your bargaining position with sellers when you begin negotiations on the home of your choice. Rely on a lender that offers pre-qualification quickly and for free.
EXPERTISE You will want to speak with a mortgage lending specialist, not just bank staff. Mortgage lending can be a confusing process without an experienced lending professional to help guide you every step of the way. They should ask questions and take the time to listen to your answers concerning your
Lenders can continuously monitor interest rates and alert you when opportunities arise to improve your situation, but not all will. Rely on a lender that offers a sound source of financial information and can act as a trusted advisor today, tomorrow and through the years as your financial needs change.
PROVEN TRACK RECORD
overall financial picture. Seek a lender with the desire to make the process as simple and easy for you as possible.
CONVENIENCE It’s important to be able to sit down and speak with your lending professional face to face if you prefer. Choose a lender with a variety of branches that are convenient to you.
DECISION MAKING You’re a neighbor, not a
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number. The decision-making power of many mortgage lenders lies in corporate offices many miles or even states away. Seek a lender that understands the importance of a local commitment to the community they serve and the ability to make decisions locally.
your individual circumstances. There are many loan types available from VA, FHA, Rural Development, conventional, construction and lot loans. Seek a lender who offers them all to ensure you get the loan that fits your unique needs best.
RURAL DEVELOPMENT LOAN OPTIONS Most lenders offer different home financing options. However, a good lender will offer a dedicated, professional staff to find what best suits
If you’re seeking a home in southern Illinois, ask if your lender offers 100% financing with a government-guaranteed Rural Development loan. Nearly every home in southern Illinois
New is great, but not when you’re seeking the long-term commitment of a home loan. Ask how many years a lender has been serving the community. It is possible to find a local lender with 50 or more years of reliable history in serving your community. Choose that lender. Everyone deserves to own a home. Finding the right mortgage lender to help you accomplish that goal is important. If a lender meets the key points discussed here, you can feel comfortable that they are a sound choice – one that will exceed your expectations from start to finish.
The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 19
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose an HVAC Company In the summer, there is nothing more important than good air conditioning. In the winter, nothing is more important than efficient heating. At least, that's how it feels. The key to getting great heating and air conditioning service is finding the right HVAC company. An HVAC company is like a spouse. A good one is helpful, reliable, and there for you in your times of need. A bad one will cost you a lot of money, cause you many headaches, and put you in uncomfortable situations. The place to start when looking for that great HVAC company is with word of mouth. Ask your family and friends who they've had good experience using. If you hear a name more than once, that's a good sign. Be sure to let the company know that they were recommended by people close to you. This will let them know that they better do a good job or their other customers will hear about it and maybe consider taking their business to another company. Jim Weihl, owner of RSP Heating and Cooling, says his company relies strongly on referrals. “Over 80% of the clients we serve called us because they were referred by a friend or family member. When you provide great customer service people share that experience with others. Our clients are actually rewarded for
referrals. If they recommend RSP to someone who purchases a new heating and cooling system, we send them $100 as our way of saying thank you.” As with researching any sort of company, you'll want to check with the Better Business Bureau. While you're at it, be sure to check with your state's board of contractors. You can also check the local mechanical inspection office to be really thorough. You want to make sure any company you use is reputable, as some unfortunately aren't. Ask the tough questions. What are their prices? What are their usual turnaround times? What manufacturers do they use? Jim adds that shoppers should be cautious when a contractor’s bid is very low in comparison to other bids. “This usually indicates that the quote is based on low-end, low-efficiency equipment. An installation of cheap, inefficient equipment will only end up costing a home owner more in the long run due to utility costs and breakdowns. Clients who invest in a quality brand with a high efficiency rating are usually able to save enough in utility costs to off-set the monthly payment on their new HVAC system.” Also be sure to ask if the company offers a maintenance program after the new equipment is installed. According to Weihl, “annual
Page 20 Sunday, September 19, 2010 The Southern Illinoisan
maintenance for your furnace and air conditioner is much like an oil change for your car. You would never let your car go over 3000 miles without an oil change. Maintenance for your heating and cooling system keeps your system operating safely and efficiently and helps prevent unexpected breakdowns.” You'll also want to ask if the company has insurance and is bonded for accidents that are sure to occur from time to time. This will save you from having to file a claim on your homeowners insurance, should any mishaps occur and cause damage to your valuable property during the installation. If an HVAC company is a quality business, they will probably have membership in a reputable professional organization. Some prevalent organizations are the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the AirConditioning and Refrigeration Institute, and the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and AirConditioning Engineers. If the company you're considering belongs to an organization like one of these, it shows that they really know their business. Lisa Gentz, Comfort Consultant for RSP, recommends always choosing a company with N.A.T.E. certified technicians. “N.A.T.E. (North American Technician
Excellence) provides testing for specialized areas of the HVAC industry. Technicians like ours, who have successfully passed the NATE certification process are proven to have a commitment to on-going training and the knowledge to get the job done right the first time.” It's also very important to ask if the company has an afterhours on-call service. Most companies offer something like this, but it's definitely something you should be sure to check out. A summer weekend with a broken airconditioner can last a very long time. Be sure to check whether they get the proper permits. This can save you a lot of headaches. Something else that can save you from those excruciating aches of the noggin is a load calculation. It's a good idea for the company you're considering to perform a load calculation before installing any new systems in your building. There are HVAC companies that simply use a rule of thumb to size the necessary equipment and even companies that just install the same size of equipment as the last equipment you had installed. These methods can cause unnecessary problems for you. You don't know if a load calculation was ever done when the first system was installed, and the building has probably
changed since then, anyway. According to Lisa, “equipment that is not sized properly is the cause of most of the comfort and air quality issues that people experience in their homes. We perform a load calculation to go along with all of our proposals. We want to perform a room-by-room analysis so we can deliver comfort to the entire home. By providing our clients with a load calculation we are also able to save them $120 on their new system through the Ameren ActOnEnergy program.” A system that's too big will cause big problems and be inefficient, and a system that's too small won't ever be able to satisfy the larger load. When you have the system that perfectly fits your needs, you will save money and be much happier. Jim Weihl adds that “because we perform a load calculation for our installations, RSP is able to provide our clients with a 100% money-back guarantee that their system will heat and cool their homes properly”. Follow this advice and you'll find a HVAC company that will save you some money and leave you satisfied with their work.
The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 21
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Look 10 Years Younger To look younger, the most obvious thing to do would be to quit doing those things that make you look older. Aging is a very complicated natural process that is often accelerated by our own poor choices. Of these, tobacco abuse and sun damage are the most serious.
regular timely schedule. Fillers are substances that are injected into the skin to provide bulk. Some lines just need to be
There are numerous kinds of fillers available that have different thickness for different areas and which last for different amounts of time
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a technique used to cleanse the skin of abnormal pigment, decrease pore size and help
Even without these bad habits, our skin will age. It’s just what happens. So, what to do about it? According to Dr. Tom Critchlow of The Vein & Esthetic Centre, the key is to individualize treatments. “There are so many new techniques and procedures and promises today, the difficulty is picking the ones that actually work and are right for your skin and budget.” Some of the least invasive options are: Botox®: When we smile, the muscles around the eye contract and wrinkle the skin. Over time, the wrinkles on the outside of the eyes can become fixed, just like the wrinkles between your eyes or forehead when you frown or squint. Botox® is a substance, which when injected into the muscles of expression causes a temporary paralysis of these muscles and allows the skin to flatten out. The effect of the injection of Botox® lasts about 3-4 months, but can often be lengthened when injected on a
filled in or smoothed out. They are often used to smooth out nasal labial lines (those lines from the outside of the nose to the outside of the mouth). They can be used to inject smaller lines or used to bulk up the lips.
Page 22 Sunday, September 19, 2010 The Southern Illinoisan
(usually around 1 year) and have different shelf lives, which is the time a filler lasts once it has been opened and maybe only partially used. To best optimize your results with fillers, consult your physician about which ones might be right for you.
with fine wrinkles. It is currently the treatment of choice for rosacea and can also be used as well as a laser to treat spider veins on the face. Fraxel™ Laser Resurfacing has been called the most
revolutionary procedure since Botox. It is primarily used for skin resurfacing. Prior to this technology, all skin resurfacing used various modalities(severe chemicals, severe microdermabrasion or ablative lasers) to remove the out layer of skin and to allow new skin to grow back. The more outer skin that is removed, the more new skin that will grow back, but the higher the risk of complications such as pigment problems, infection and a longer downtime. Its sort of like scraping all of the grass from your lawn and waiting till new grass grows back from the roots. Fraxel™ technology relies on lasering millions of micro cores of tissue with normal skin in between. This normal skin between the cores allows the skin to heal within a day, almost eliminating complications and downtime. Its kind of like plugging your lawn. Fraxel™ is used for mild to moderate wrinkles, pigment changes, pore size, sun damage, stretch marks and acne scarring. Liposuction is a technique used for body contouring. It can take inches from your waist, hips, thighs, arms and take years off your looks. There are many new noninvasive options for turning back the clock. Talk to your physician about what might work for you.
• Botox® • Fillers • Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) • Fraxel laser Resurfacing • Liposuction • Fotofacials • Tattoo Removal • Latisse • Chemical Peels • Permanent Hair Removal
Providing outpatient esthetic procedures since 1984
Tom Critchlow, M.D. 10419 Fleming Rd. • Carterville, IL www.veincntr.com TOLL FREE: 1-888-835-VEIN The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 23
Page 24 Sunday, September 19, 2010 The Southern Illinoisan
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Start Your Own Business If you want to start a business but don't know where to start, don't worry--you are not alone. In fact, given the new economic reality of our time, more people than ever before have found the "job" they thought was waiting for them doesn't exist. Others have come to the conclusion that they would rather create work they love, constructed to fit with their own life goals. No matter what the motivation is to be your own boss, you can start today.
6. Build a Support Network. You've made the internal commitment to your business. Now you need to cultivate a network of supporters, advisors, partners, allies and vendors. If you believe in your business, others will, too. Network locally, nationally & via social networks. Join networks like linkedin.com, your local chamber of commerce, or other relevant business groups or trade associations.
Here are 7 Tips to Get You Started: 1. Take a Stand for Yourself. If you are dissatisfied with your current circumstances, take action. It doesn't do any good to blame the economy, your boss, your spouse or your family. Change can only occur when you make a conscious decision to make it happen. 2. Identify the Right Business for You. Give yourself permission to explore. Be willing to look at different facets of yourself and listen to your intuition. We tend to ignore intuition even though deep down we often know the truth. Ask yourself "What gives me energy even when I'm tired?" How do you know what business is "right" for you? There are three common approaches to entrepreneurship, all entailing some self reflection. You may decide to do something you know how to do well after working for others. Perhaps
you think you could do the job better if you were your own boss. Another approach is to try a new venture that interests you and immerse yourself in that area. Lastly, you may see a business void in your area that you feel is needed. 3.Business Planning Improves Your Chances for Success. A business plan will help you gain clarity, focus and confidence. According to Emily Carter, Director of Entrepreneurship at SIUC, “To launch a new business it is imperative that you put together a solid business plan. Not doing so would be like building a house without a blueprint.” As you write down your goals, strategies and action steps, your business becomes real. Ask yourself what I am I trying to achieve with my business and how much of the marketplace can use what I
offer. You must also have clear action steps and timetable benchmarks to measure the success of your business. 4. Know Your Target Audience Before You Spend a Penny. Before you spend money, find out if people will actually buy your products or services. This may be the most important thing you do. You can do this by validating your market. In other words, who, exactly, will buy your products or services? (And don't say. "Everyone in America will want my product." Trust me--they won't.) What is the size of your target market? Who are your customers? Is your product or service relevant to their everyday life? Why do they need it? 5. Understand Your Personal Finances and Choose the Right Kind of Money You Need for Your Business.
As an entrepreneur, your personal life and business life are interconnected. You are likely to be your first--and possibly only--investor. Therefore, having a detailed understanding of your personal finances, and the ability to track them, is an essential first step before seeking outside funding for your business. As you are creating your business plan, you will need to consider what type of business you are building--a lifestyle business, a franchise, or a hightech business. Depending on where you fall on the continuum, you will need a different amount of capital to launch and grow your business. Carter also advises, “In approaching bankers or investors, make sure you can clearly articulate how much capital you need and exactly what you plan to purchase with loan or investment dollars.”
7. Get the Word Out. Be willing to say who you are and what you do with conviction and without apology. Embrace and use the most effective online tools (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube) available to broadcast your news. Even though social networks are essential today, don't underestimate the power of other methods to get the word out, like word-of-mouth marketing, website and online marketing, local newspaper, radio or television. If you take these steps, you'll be well on your way to becoming your own boss. It's important to remember that you are not alone. If you want to "be your own boss" but you still feel stuck, reach out and connect with other entrepreneurs in a variety of ways. Also take advantage of the free resources available to you right here in the region. You may be surprised by the invaluable contacts that are right at your fingertips.
The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 25
Page 26 Sunday, September 19, 2010 The Southern Illinoisan
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose a Carpet Store Other types of stores that sell carpet are the larger home and garden stores. Because of the size of the store and the fact that it may be part of a chain, may be good, but their service isn't always the best.
Replacing carpet can dramatically change the look and feel of a room. It is a big decision -- carpet covers large areas and is noticeable. Buying carpet can also cost a significant amount of money, so finding the right place to buy is essential.
These stores may offer financing for good credit. They typically have many types of carpet available on site, or it can be ordered from a nearby supplier.
How do you choose a carpet store? There are several guidelines to follow when it is time to make a purchase. There are a variety of stores that sell carpet. Some are the warehouse type, with every color and fiber available in the region. Other stores are small businesses that may not have everything in stock, but they concentrate on service. Still other home improvement stores have added carpet as a department in their large selection of home necessities. Choosing between any of these stores is the decision of the consumer, as each type of store will offer different services. WAREHOUSE STORES The large, warehouse carpet stores are known to have large quantities of carpet available. A salesperson can offer carpet swatches from the warehouse to choose from their selection. These stores are more for the do it yourself type, who prefer picking up and installing their own carpet. Some of the disadvantages of these stores are the volume of work that is done: the
salesperson may have an indepth knowledge of carpet fibers and stain resistance, but once you make the purchase, they may not remember you from the next customer. Since buying carpet can be expensive, it is important to remember your salesperson and to be remembered. SMALL BUSINESSES Some carpet stores are smaller businesses that focus on providing quality service. Many of these stores have been in business for generations, or are a family-run business. These stores can offer excellent service, and they take the time to sit down with customers to answer their every question. They may offer service discounts in order to keep customers coming back for more business. These smaller stores do not always have the largest selection of carpet
available onsite. Carpet samples may be accessible during the sales process, but the actual carpet desired may need to be ordered. This can take time, but that's OK because you want to make sure you find the perfect match for your home. We have a wonderful team of personnel on staff to help you chose the right color ant type of product for your needs.
The potential disadvantages of buying from these stores are the service and installation. Some employees working at these stores work in several departments, and they may not be able to give you consistent information or quality service. IN CONCLUSION Buying carpet is an important venture, as it can change the look and feel of a house. Shoppers should look for sales and determine what is
important to them while buying. Deciding what really matters while purchasing carpet is the key to finding the right carpet store. Stokes said “We pride ourselves on providing good, quality products at affordable prices with great personal service.” Being partners with Mohawk Flooring, provides us with greater buying power, higher quality products and excellent warranties. This allows us to offer affordable prices and a peace of mind to our customers, knowing their product is backed by a warranty. Along with personal service, we are the only flooring store to back our installation of your flooring for the life of the product. Some stores may claim to have the highest quality installers, but only Distinctive Flooring backs up our claim by offering a Lifetime Labor Warranty.
A smaller locally owned retailer will make sure the process goes smoothly. “We take pride in our commitment and involvement with each customer. We will be with you through every decision. Follow that up with a lifetime labor warranty and you can’t go wrong” said Keith Stokes of Distinctive Flooring in Murphysboro. HOME AND GARDEN STORES
The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 27
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose a Jewelry Store Jewelry made with precious gemstones and metals can be very valuable and become family heirlooms. Shopping for jewelry can be a very difficult task. You need to choose a jewelry store based on numerous factors. The following are some tips to assist you in making your decision. First: Choose a professional jeweler. This store should have a knowledgeable, educated, and trained staff to help you make an informed purchase or repair. Look for credentials or certificates that indicate experience. Second: Professional jewelry stores should be members of Jewelry Associations, the Chamber of Commerce, and be rated well by the Better Business Bureau. They should be located in a safe, convenient location. The jewelry store should also be insured for loss or theft of both their inventory and their customer’s jewelry while the jewelry is in their possession. Third: Find out how long they have been in business. Are they a locally owned independent store or are they part of a chain of stores? In most cases a store that has been around for numerous years and has a good reputation would be a good choice. Fourth: Who has a good reputation in your area? Ask friends or relatives for recommendations. Choose your jeweler like you would choose your friends or your doctor. A good jeweler will have your best
interest at heart, not just to make a sale, but to service all your jewelry needs both today and tomorrow. Fifth: Service to the customer is another important factor in choosing a jewelry store. You should be treated courteously and with a smile when you walk in the door. Are there any jewelers on staff that can advise you on repairs or remounts? Are repairs done in their store or is your jewelry sent out somewhere else? The staff should be well trained and educated to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. Sixth: They should have a good selection of quality made jewelry with various precious metals and gemstones. Jewelry stores should have a guarantee on both merchandise and service. Don’t forget to ask about the trade-in, return and exchange policies. Seventh: Don’t be “dazzled” by discounts. Stay away form stores that advertise great savings and discounts. Savvy shoppers will usually find that these “drastic discounts” are actually the normal selling prices elsewhere. All they have done is raise the price so they can then mark the price down. Eighth and final: You must feel comfortable and confident with the jewelry store and employees you are doing business with. You should receive quality jewelry, at a fair price, with honest, dependable service you can count on.
Page 28 Sunday, September 19, 2010 The Southern Illinoisan
Your Jeweler
Serving Southern Illinois for over 20 years
• Diamonds/Gemstones • Gold/Silver/Platinum • Estate Consignment • Custom Jewelry and Remounts • Gifts and Engraveables • Clocks & Watches
All jewelry merchandise, gifts and repairs are guaranteed!
Ask a friend who they trust!
Rob, Kelli, Laura, Tiffany, Mike, Nathan Over 65 Years of Combined Experience
We do have exchange and return policies
We Bu y Gold!
“More Than Just A Jewelry Store” Rt. 13, Carterville • 985-8331 Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9-6 • Sat. 9-4
* Quality * Trust * Service 2 Full Time Jewelers on Duty Everyday Members of: • Illinois Jewelers Assoc. • Jewelers of America • Retail Jewelers Assoc. • Jewelers Security Alliance • Jewelers Mutual Insurance • Carterville Chamber of Commerce
We Bu y Gold!
The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 29
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose a Boat Dealer Whether you are a veteran boater or a first-timer, buying a boat is a major decision that is similar to buying a car in many ways. This means that you will want to begin by locating a reputable dealer and deciding which boat is right for you. If you are in the market for a boat that is brand new, you need to be sure you pick the right accessories. Buying a used boat has its own pitfalls, too, and taking this step definitely calls for a certain amount of caution. The following steps should help ensure that you will succeed in working with a good boat dealer: -- Do some research before you go to any dealer. Visit some manufacturers’ Web sites and owners’ forums, where you can find out what owning the type of boat that interests you entails. You may even gather some information about someone’s experience when working with a certain dealer. -- Think about where you plan to go boating, and look for a dealership in that area who will offer you outstanding service and has customer satisfaction as a top priority. -- Decide on the kind of boat you want before you visit a dealer so that the decision will be yours alone, and be certain that you have some way to transport or berth the craft once you have made your selection. Since safety will be a major concern, you should also be aware that an NMMAcertified boat is built to the
standards established by the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) and also meets the U.S. Coast Guard regulations that apply. -- When you visit the dealership, make sure you have all of your questions answered, especially if you are buying a used boat. --Look at the dealership at how clean the store and how the clean the boats are kept, this is a sign that they care about there business --ask about the service department are the technician's certified with the brand of motors sold and are their
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certifications kept up to date, are there enough technicians to take care of all service needs. -Can the dealership offer you a large option of accessories at good pricing and do they offer installation? --make sure the dealer goes over the boat operations and motor operations with you, ask questions till YOU feel comfortable about it. If you are a beginner when it comes to boating, take an experienced friend along with a list of the inspection points that you want to check out.
Find the Boat that Meets Your Lifestyle! Whether you’re a sport fisher or want a leisure boat, we have a variety to suit your needs!
2 0 11 ’s N ow Arriving!
Now scheduling winterizing appointments • Shrinkwrap and indoor/outdoor storage available
15993 Cambria Rd. Hurst, IL
618-987-2661 or 618-987-2030
bosswing@msn.com • www.harrisonssportshop.com The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 31
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose a Home Improvement Center store that you can trust. When you ask the staff for help, you want to feel like they really listen to your problem and offer you the best solution that they can think of. This is something you can only determine after visiting a store a few times for yourself.
In any marketplace, there are many hardware stores to choose from. Which one you choose will largely depend upon your own individual needs. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making this decision. SELECTION An important factor to consider when choosing your hardware store is their selection of goods. Sometimes a hardware store will specialize in a certain area of home repair, such as tools, while another may specialize in paints. Still another might have a wide selection, but won't have the depth of choices that a specialized store might have in a particular department. “Our association with Do It Best gives us access to over 40,000 products, some of which we carry in our store, but all of which we can order and have to you in a matter of days”, said Ken Smith, owner of South Side Lumber.
EXPERTISE OF THE STAFF Often times, we aren't quite sure which tool would be the best for the job we are planning. In these cases, it can be wonderful to get a recommendation from time to time from the owner of the store. This is often an advantage of frequenting a smaller store rather than a nationwide chain. “We have
employees that have worked for us for as many as 25 years and are very knowledgeable in all aspects of what we offer”, Smith said. Although the nationwide chain may have a huge store with a wide selection, they are often staffed by young people. The owner of a small hardware shop, on the other hand, is
Page 32 Sunday, September 19, 2010 The Southern Illinoisan
likely in this business because he loves it and knows the market climate very well. CUSTOMER SERVICE For many people, this is the most important factor in choosing any business, and a hardware store is no different. How does the staff treat you when you come to the store?
Are they happy to see you, or do they act as if they are doing you a favor by helping you? “We pride ourselves on providing a high level of customer service to all customers and make sure they go home 100% satisfied with their purchase”, Smith said. It is important to develop a relationship with a hardware
PRICES Price is also an important consideration. You may not think that paying $1.50 for a few screws instead of $1 is a big deal, but if you do a lot of projects around the home, this can really add up. Another way to make sure you're saving money is to look out for ads or coupons to see if any of the local stores are having a sale. This can be a great excuse to try a new store. “Our products are competitive with any found in southern Illinois and we stand by our brands as the best you can find in the industry”, Smith stated. Choosing a hardware store to frequent may not seem like an important decision. However, if you take the time to carefully consider your options, you'll find that you can greatly improve your hardware shopping experience.
Welcome to South Side Lumber. We are Cecily and Elliott Smith and we’d like to share with you all that our family’s store has to offer. Started in 1946 by our great-grandfather, boy has our business grown the past 63 years! Let’s tour the store and we’ll show you what we’ve got. Cabinets Starting At
69
$
Per L.Ft.
3-D Computer Design Design Staffing Free Measuring Countertops Starting At
14
$ Kitchen When your kitchen needs an update, stop by and see the kitchen experts Tracy and Eric. With so many styles and designs, the only limitation is your imagination.
Per L.Ft.
• A Full Line of Kitchen Products • Full Custom Capability • Field Measuring • 20/20 Computer Design
Flooring If you need to update your flooring, our flooring expert Candie can help you. From carpet to hardwood to vinyl in all price ranges, you’ll find the perfect look.
Ceramic Tile In Stock Many collections to choose from! Match the perfect patterns and color to your home decor.
Walk In Tubs, Steam Showers, and new Shower Displays give you many options.
Walk In Tubs
Custom Bath
Pre-Plumbed Units with your Choice of Whirlpool or Airbath Options.
Transform your bathroom into a place of luxury with a custom designed bath or shower.
Starting at
3,43000
$
Kent Smith, owner Contractor
Contractors have trusted us for years to provide them the materials they need to complete their jobs. With thousands of Do It Best products, plus convenient payment options, it just makes good sense to shop with us.
Architectural Design
Our goal is to be the best supplier of home building products and services to builders and homeowners throughout Southern Illinois.
13 Colors in Stock
6990
$
sq.
For all the comforts of your home visit South Side Lumber.
Cash & Carry. In stock only.
1300 S. Park • Herrin 942-3111 Visit us at: sslumbr.com
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 7 am-5 pm • Sat. 7 am- 12 pm
The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 33
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Avoid Knee Surgery professional. INJECTIONS : Your doctor or specialist may also recommend injections that could help ease pain in your knee.
Knee pain can be an excruciating experience when it recurs over and over again. While pain in the knees is often a harbinger of knee surgery, some techniques and therapeutic procedures can relieve the pain without the need for surgery.
Corticosteroids can reduce inflammation and relieve pain in some patients. Injected corticosteroids are associated with fewer side effects compared to oral administration.
Knee surgery was once the end-all method for many knee problems, but doctors have come to learn that it can often be prevented, saving a patient from the cost, long recovery periods, and the possibility of further complications.
Hyaluronic acid is sometimes prescribed to be injected in patients with knee problems. This is a natural lubricant produced by the body that may need to be supplemented.
REDUCING AND ELIMINATING PAIN The first step in avoiding knee surgery is reducing or eliminating pain. This is usually done through forms of exercise and physical therapy.
The first thing to do once knee pain sets in is the stop any rigorous exercise or athletic training. Give it a full rest for a day or two and gradually try to get back into the swing. Physical therapists often use the 10-percent rule. The first week you begin working the knee at 10 percent of what you usually do, and increase it by 10 percent each week until you are at 100 percent by the 10th week.
Strengthening exercises can also help to reduce knee pain, thus eliminating the need for knee surgery, by correcting imbalances in the musculature that may have led to the pain. These exercises will restore weak muscles and create stronger muscle support for the knee overall. Strength training of the core will also improve bodily stability that can prevent further damage from taking place. Flexibility exercises are sometimes
Botox injections have been found to relieve pain long enough for healing to take place without the need for surgery in some cases. beneficial for painful knees, as what is causing the pain could be a tightening of the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Hamstrings and quadriceps stretches are the most beneficial for the knees. Specific training in skills that require the use of the knees in everyday life, work and leisure activities can help to eliminate pain. Specific routines can be personalized based on lifestyle and work that will condition the body and the knees to move properly and in conjunction with each other. When repeated often enough, the movements become second-nature. Good habits from the skills training eventually replace the bad habits of old. Some knee pain is caused by wearing uncomfortable or improper footwear. Shoes should always match the activity. Also, shoes should specifically fit at the toe, on the top and around the ankle. Proper ankle support can be crucial to
Page 34 Sunday, September 19, 2010 The Southern Illinoisan
maintaining healthy knees. Alternatives to Knee Surgery When knee problems seem so bad that surgery appears to be the only solution, be sure you have tried all the alternatives before going under the knife. Here are some methods to try that may help you avoid knee surgery: EXERCISE: Don’t let a bum knee keep you from moving around. Inactivity is the worst enemy of healthy knees. Movement keeps the joint lubricated, the blood flowing, and muscles strong. LOSE WEIGHT: Problem knees are frequent for overweight individuals. Losing even 10 or 15 pounds is often enough to avoid knee surgery. WEAR BRACES: Knee braces prescribed by a licensed doctor can help keep the knee in alignment while it heals. Always get bracing done by a
No matter what, talk to a doctor who specializes in knee problems to find the right solution for you.
For your FREE consultation or for more information, contact SIMPLE
618-529-1943
www.simplemedicalcenter.com Medicare, HealthLink, BCBS and most insurance accepted The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 35
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HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose a Community College Choosing a community college is an intensely personal decision with lifelong consequences. Picking the right community college opens doors into bachelor and master degree programs in institutions of higher learning and equips students to advance in their chosen careers. Attending a local community college may be the only option of earning a degree for students with jobs and family responsibilities. There are several factors that will determine the right choice of a community college. Prospective students should investigate each facet of the decision making process and then use what they find to make the best decision for them. The important considerations for choosing the right community college include cost, location, majors and scheduling. A community college education traditionally costs a lot less than its four-year counterpart. Two years spent studying in a community college may cost thousands of dollars less than what a fouryear university charges for the same education. The value of the community college makes it affordable for those who might otherwise never be able to go to school and it costs them only a fraction of the price. The availability of financial assistance is an important
factor in choosing the right community college. Local communities often provide scholarships that encourage attendance at local colleges. Additional federal and state grants and loans are usually available to help curtail the cost of an education for students from every economic background.
or who wish to make a career change. Colleges have responded to the needs of this group by providing flexible scheduling. A two-year associate's degree may take a couple of extra years to complete while students sign up for only a few credits at a time. Evening classes for those with daytime jobs or family responsibilities are a popular feature and allow students to attend who otherwise would not have the time to pursue studies. Community colleges differ from one another in scheduling flexibility and students can find one that matches their needs.
The location of a community college weighs in heavily when students are choosing a school. Community colleges focus on their respective geographic locations. Large cities may have several community colleges to choose from while smaller cities may be limited to just one. Students can live at home and continue to work while pursuing a degree within a few miles of home.
Accelerated degree programs are another creative scheduling option. Students spend time studying at their convenience instead of spending precious hours in a classroom. The same material is covered but a lot more self-directed studying takes place.
The degree majors offered also dictate which community college is the right one. Majors can range from health care to technical robotics. Most community colleges offer a wide range of majors to help facilitate every student’s career objectives. Many colleges are extremely competitive and provide quality academic expertise and internship opportunities. Nursing curriculums, for example, allow registered nurses to obtain an associate's degree in about half the time as that of students enrolled in a bachelor's program. When confronted with competing
colleges offering the same major, look at the employment statistics for graduating students. Class scheduling is an
important consideration when choosing a community college. Community colleges traditionally draw older students who are already employed in the field of study
Studies that lead to a certificate in a specialized field such as health care or in business management are attractive to those who want to advance their careers. Sometimes a degree isn’t needed. Many certificate programs last for a year or less and completely satisfy the student’s needs.
The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 37
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose a Physical Therapist Physical therapy can help you function at your personal best. Whether your pain is in your neck, shoulders, back, feet, or anywhere in between physical therapy has the ability to alleviate it. Physical therapists are health care professionals who exam and provide treatment to individuals who have medical problems or health related conditions that limit mobility including the ability to perform functional and recreational activities in their daily lives. During a physical therapy examination, an individualized treatment plan is developed to promote movement, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability. Physical therapists help people to understand their body in order to achieve long-term health benefits. In many instances, physical therapists can help individuals avoid painful, invasive and expensive surgery. For example, it is known that physical therapy along with comprehensive medical management can be just as effective as surgery with relieving symptoms of moderate to severe osteoarthritis of the knee. When surgery is necessary physical therapy is also a major component in the recovery process in order to regain movement and function. Whether surgery is required or
not, physical therapists use a “hands on” approach in order to meet an individual’s personal needs. A variety of treatments are offered including: therapeutic exercises, aquatic
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therapy, functional training, electrotherapy, ultrasound, traction, light/low level laser therapy, iontophoresis, taping and personalized education just to name a few.
Some of the common conditions treated by physical therapists in an outpatient setting are: arthritis, back pain, neck pain, joint problems (knee, shoulder, hip, spine, elbow, wrist, ankle and joint replacements), fractures, sprains, strains, balance disorders, carpal tunnel syndrome, TMJ, fractures, hand injuries, headaches, osteoporosis, weakness, work related injuries and sports injuries. Physical therapy can also be provided in a variety of settings for other medical conditions and injuries. In addition to providing treatment, physical therapists can provide other services such as Pre/Post offer employment testing, Fit for duty testing, Job site analysis, Ergonomic Consultations, Nerve Conduction Studies, Fitness programs, Sport screening, Balance screening and Scoliosis screening. Physical therapists are highly trained health care providers that apply research and proven techniques to help restore function and alleviate pain. Physical therapists graduating today are required to have a graduate degree (either master’s degree or clinical doctorate) from an accredited physical therapist program. All practicing physical therapists have passed the national and state licensure examination
prior to practicing physical therapy. In Illinois, physical therapists and physical therapists assistants are required to attend continuing education prior to renewal of their state license every two years. The state board may be contacted to confirm licensing status of your physical therapist. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) is a national professional association with the goals of promoting physical therapy practice, research, and education. The APTA is also a tool that consumers can use to learn about physical therapy, conditions, view health related articles and find physical therapist in their area that are APTA members. Individuals can find information at the APTA website at www.apta.org or by phone at 800/999-APTA (2782). Choosing the right physical therapist is vital to successfully reaching your goals. It is important to find a physical therapist that has experience in treating your personal condition in order to help restore function, improve mobility, relieve pain and prevent further injury. Physical therapy care is a personal experience, so you will want to choose a therapist that you can trust and are comfortable with.
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“QUALITY MAKES THE DIFFERENCE Phone: 618-993-4024 • Fax: 618-993-1570 Email: hrtherapy@verizon.net • www.hrphysicaltherapysi.com The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 39
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose an RV Dealer experiences when purchasing.
Recreational vehicles can be a great way to spend time with your family while exploring the great outdoors — all in comfort and style.
Use the Internet to read RV blogs. They offer great advice and you will be able to read complaints about RV dealers. Some won't be legitimate, but if you see the same complaint numerous times about a dealer, then you'll know to stay away. Also look at Web sites for national RV clubs and find their recommendations.
It's important to find both the right kind of vehicle and the right dealer, though, to make sure you're happy with the purchase for a long time after the sale. To choose an RV dealer, you should first know what type of RV you are shopping for. Do you want to drive the RV or tow it behind a vehicle? “We often see shoppers come in with the intent to purchase a camper, but then quickly realize they don’t have a sufficient vehicle to pull the unit”, said Marvin Oetjen, owner of Kamper’s Supply in Carterville. Safety of transporting the camper should be paramount to all buyers.
Next, start looking for RV dealers and what they have to offer. Read the reviews of the dealerships. Narrow down a few and visit the lots. By this time, you will
normally the least expensive and can also be used for a family vehicle when not traveling.
RVs. They are easy to tow and they don't take up much space when storing.
Now let’s take a look first at how RVs are categorized:
Class C Motor Homes - These can be called a mini motor home, about halfway between Class A and Class B motor homes.
MOTORIZED RVs A motorized RV has its own engine, living quarters, and doesn't require towing. There are three categories of motorized RVs: Class A motor home, Class B motor home, and Class C motor home.
TOWABLE RVs A towable RV is designed to be pulled by a car, van, SUV, or truck. They are small enough that they don't require any special highway permits. Prices are quite reasonable with choices available to fit nearly any budget.
Fifth-wheel Trailers These have an extension at the front of trailer that hitches in the bed of the towing truck. This is likely the most expensive of the towable RVs but it can be equipped with many of the fine amenities of a Class A motor home.
Class A Motor Homes - This is the top of the line. It can have every luxury of home and on many models you can also expand the living quarters with the touch of a button.
Travel Trailers - These come in a variety of sizes and can include just a bedroom on wheels to all the luxuries of Class A Motor Home without the motor.
Next consider do you want all the luxuries of home or do you want to rough it a little bit? Will you use it just for weekends or traveling fulltime?
Class B Motor Homes - These are also known as conversion vans. These are
Folding Camping Trailers - Also called pop-up campers, these are the least expensive and the lightest of towable
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be armed with enough information to make an offer.
Truck Campers - These are small camper shells that you can slide in or out of the truck bed with ease. Space inside is limited but it would be great for one or two people. When the camper is not in use, the truck can be used for daily living.
Oetjen gives this advice to anyone looking to purchase any type of RV. “Spend an adequate amount of time in the unit you are considering and make sure it will meet your needs. See that it is well-crafted, easy to move around in and has room for what you’ll be taking on your trips.”
Now that you have an idea what type of RV are you looking for, it's time to do your homework. Start by getting advice from other RVers about their
With the right information in hand, you're ready to start traveling in your home on wheels.
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The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 41
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose a Caterer the right direction.
Choosing a caterer for your special event is easier said than done. The client needs to have a clear-cut budget in mind and plenty of flexibility to meet his or her catering needs. And a quality caterer that fits the bill will have to be in synch with the client's wants, needs and time constraints to ensure the event is pulled off without a hitch.
The best time to hire a caterer is when you have the party venue booked or a clear idea of the indoor or outdoor spacing that will be available to you. And don't forget to get the head count. With these factors in place, the caterer will take it from there and offer you a bevy of buffet options from self-service tables to sit-down dinners by candlelight. Bon appetit!
For the best possible results, never leave the catering hire to the last minute. You will need to speak with a few companies to find the right caterer to meet and exceed your expectations and provide you with quality time to plan your event. The first concern for a catering client is to locate a catering business with a top rating from the health department. This governmental grading system ensures the food is being handled properly and that all the food temperature and safety regulations have been met. The catering company with a good rating will ensure that your food products are cooked, delivered and served to meet with the strictest of safety standards that every consumer demands. So, eat, drink and be merry from the caterer with a good grade on his door. Next, ask your caterer what his or her work schedule is and be sure that you are not the final straw that breaks the camel's back. Your event must be given the proper attention
for meal planning, food tasting and spectacular presentation that you expect. A caterer with a cumbersome schedule may not be your best choice for your special event that will cost you a mint. Language like, "I can squeeze you in" should not be in your caterer's vocabulary and is a clear cut signal that there may not be sufficient time he or she can devote to the critical planning stage. If the catering company seems overbooked, consider walking away. You can always keep them in mind for your next big event and hope for better timing.
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Finding a caterer brimming with insight and ideas is like finding the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Food service issues can be an unfamiliar topic with the general public, and you want a caterer to come up with many suggestions and pricing plans for you to peruse. Perhaps you have a central theme in mind for your next big event, and a skilled caterer may have just the ticket to compliment your Hawaiian garden party or spooky Halloween haunt. The type of food served, along with its presentation, can make or break your party theme, so be sure to
hire a caterer that's on the same page as you. Finally, you will want to select a caterer that has a good amount of references and testimonials from past clients. Check with the catering Web sites for comments and reviews to guide you to your perfect match. In addition, you will find pricing guidelines and menu options to get your thoughts moving in
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www.martinscatering.net Over 30 Years of Catering Experience Breakfast, Lunch, Hors D’Oeuvres and Dinner •On-Site Fish Fry •Linen Table Clothes and Napkins Available The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 43
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose a Financial Institution institution might serve your interests even better. Choose one that is convenient to your home or place of employment. Most working people stop by the financial institution on the way home from the job. Every financial institution customer faces the occasional race against the clock. When you need to deposit a check before your financial institution closes, every second counts. Convenient locations will make your life much easier.
Few consumers put as much effort into their choice of financial institutions as they do most other shopping decisions. However, banking services can influence a wide range of financial matters. Many significant metrics can be used to select a financial institution that services the unique needs of the individual. Keep in mind your local credit union may provide the best rates, service and convenience over traditional banks. Consider some of these details when choosing.
OVERDRAFT PROTECTION Each financial institution has specific policies regarding overdrafts. While you may try your best to keep your account current, the occasional overdraft happens to nearly everyone.
INTEREST RATES AND FEES Interest rates determine the true value of a financial institution account. While most financial institutions will adjust them based on the federal funds rate, each facility will have a slightly different rate for savings accounts. This directly affects the interest payments that will be credited to your account. When considering large deposits, small differences in interest rates can result in significant changes.
Banking services often involve fees and penalties for various transactions. For example, your checking account might restrict the number of checks that you can write per month before facing a fee. You may be required to maintain a minimum balance. Overdraft penalties can vary significantly between different financial institutions. Each financial institution has a specific set of policies.
Overdraft protection can provide a degree of insurance against the confusing complications that occur when checks bounce. Your financial institution may offer a high interest line of credit that kicks in when you bounce a check. This allows your check to clear. If you quickly pay off the balance, the interest payment will be minimal. Compare these fees and penalties when choosing a financial institution. Often times, your local credit union, which is member-owned, will have the lowest fees amongst all financial institutions. CONVENIENCE You will want to choose a
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financial institution that has convenient branch locations. If you travel frequently, select one that serves areas that you visit. Taking care of financial matters on the road can be challenging when using a local or regional financial institution. However, a local financial
Other financial institutions may charge a specific penalty for each overdraft. There are also financial institutions that do not cover bounced checks at all. Consider the financial institution's overdraft policy when making your choice.
FINANCIAL INSTITUTION STABILITY This is an often overlooked element of commercial financial banking. When putting money in a financial institution, it is important to consider the solvency of the institution's balance sheet. Under a fractional reserve financial banking system, funds held on deposit are typically invested by the financial institution. Past financial meltdowns inform us that a stable financial institution with a clean balance sheet can best weather the turbulence of market corrections. However, most financial institutions will be insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or the National Credit Union Administration for up to $250,000 per depositor. This value can change depending on the type and number of accounts held by the customer. Your money will be safe in nearly any financial institution. However, bank failures can be inconvenient. A solid financial institution should have limited exposure to toxic assets that risk its balance sheet. SERVICES YOU NEED Different financial institutions offer a wide range of services. Whether you need a loan or a checking account, choose a trustworthy financial institution that satisfies your unique concerns with the lowest cost and highest rate of return.
The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 45
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Protect Your Legal Needs as You Age Surgery, hospitalization, long-term care and staggering prescription costs are among the leading worries of individuals approaching retirement age. Effective estate management also looms as an even larger concern as years advance.
Attendance” and “Housebound” benefits programs may be of particular interest. It is important to realize that a veteran need not be wounded during war but just needing the aid and attendance of another person at this stage in their life. Also, this program is for widows of Veterans. There are certain requirements that must be met both physically and financially before a Veteran will qualify for this benefit. Consult an Elder Law attorney if you are having trouble meeting their guidelines.
Professionals experienced in the multiple facets of elder law help clients secure their rightful benefits and, as a consequence, enjoy better health during their retirement years. They also can protect the individual and family estate for future generations. MEDICARE The Medicare program, provides health insurance for people 65 and older and to some disabled individuals under age 65. Benefits range from hospital care and home health services to doctors' fees and prescription medications. Medicare does not pay for Long –Term care. In fact, Medicare will only pay for a short stay in a Nursing Home and small amounts of at-home care. Medicare was never meant to be a Long-term option for the elderly. It is important that you contact an Elder Law attorney that will help you decide how you are going to pay for Longterm care once your short term Medicare benefit runs out. MEDICAID Medicaid provides government-paid medical assistance for long term care,
but you have to qualify for this program unlike Medicare. Coverage includes hospitalization, outpatient care, nursing home care, limited at-home care, supportive living care, doctors’ services, reduced prescription costs and some types of lab work. An elder law specialist can smooth the Medicaid application process. A common misconception is that an individual must dispense with all or most personal assets several years before applying for Medicaid. In fact, many assets can be protected. A legal counselor can formulate effective Medicaid planning for structuring and
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preserving assets, compliant with state and federal laws. The lawyer can explain how to avoid Medicaid liens, such as the lien on a patient’s home in order to pay for nursing home care. The attorney also can guide the client through appeals for relief in Medicaid matters. ASSISTED LIVING AND HOME CARE Many people have long-term care insurance to pay the bulk of nursing home, assisted living or home care costs. While this preserves personal assets, insurance coverage may be exhausted before the policy holder dies. However, one needs to see an elder law
attorney to protect assets once the insurance benefits are exhausted. VETERAN ASSISTANCE An attorney can explain the various benefits offered by the Veterans Administration. Besides hospitalization and other medical care, a veteran or veteran’s spouse may be eligible for VA-funded support in related areas. These can range from assistance in toileting and bathing to eating and exercise. Apart from the veteran’s basic pension and medical support, VA benefits include help with disability costs. The administration’s “Aid and
WEALTH PROTECTION A personal estate plan is recommended for all adults but becomes essential after retirement. Without it, survivors of the deceased stand to lose a large percentage of existing assets. An estate planner primarily drafts legal instruments that stipulate the disposition of assets when the client dies. These documents include wills and trust agreements. The lawyer can show how to protect the estate from death taxes. Additionally, the attorney can point out resources that will pay some of the costs of long-term care, thus helping preserve the value of the estate.
The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 47
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose a Window Treatment floor to ceiling will add the height the room needs and that you desire.
If you’re like many of my clients, choosing the right window treatment is a confusing process. Trying to decide between the type of window treatment that would work best for you, your home, and your windows, plus finding just the right fabric, is sometimes enough to make you feel like having the entire window just walled off!
It can be a daunting task to choose the right window treatment. However, here are a few guidelines to help you get started. First and foremost, you must decide what you want your window to do. Once you’ve conquered that decision, half the battle is over! Ask yourself a few questions. Does your window provide a lovely view that you wish to enhance? Does your room thirst for the natural light the window provides? Does the window allow too much sunlight that will damage floors and furniture? Would you prefer to disguise a not-so-lovely view? Do your windows seem too small for the size of your room? Are the windows in your room mismatched in width and length, and placement on the wall? Do you have an arch or shaped window? Because there are so many design options available to creatively solve any window challenge, it’s important you consider function first.
Take, for example this window scenario…your window opens to a lovely view and you
For windows with too much sun or a not-so-lovely view, you might consider sheers. Sheers have come a long way from the basic voile and batiste. Today’s sheers offer a wide variety of colors, prints, and textures. Even blinds have entered the sheer business with shades like the Hunter Douglas Silhouette® or Luminette®. These sheer shades combined with fabric top and/or side treatments can create some of the most dynamic window treatments on the market today. For windows with an arch, transom, or eyebrow shape, there are solutions. These as well as bays, bows, and 2-story windows should be left to a design professional. Projections, heights, and angles can really be a nuisance and can be the cause of costly errors if not treated properly.
have absolutely no privacy constraints. The rule in this case is to frame the view or draw the eye to the window as the focal point to enhance the view. One design idea for your custom window treatment might be topping the window with a beautifully colored and designed top treatment, and then framing the window with
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stationary side panels. This classic and elegant design can be transformed from very formal to simply casual by fabric selection and design details. Here’s another creative design “rule” for a different window challenge. Let’s say you are dealing with extremely
narrow windows and your desire is to give them more prominence in your room. By hanging window treatments beyond the actual frame of the window, these same “thin” windows will take on a “larger” presence in your room. Conversely, if you’re dealing with shorter windows, a window treatment hung from
All in all, there are a myriad of design choices available to solve even the toughest of window design challenges. By doing your homework, and working with a professional decorator, your solutions will be exciting to explore.
Call Today for a FREE Complimentary Consultation
Decorated by Angela Rowe
Book now to ensure delivery before the Holidays Since 1995, I’ve offered complete interior decorating services to residential and commercial clients all over Southern Illinois. My work reflects my client’s lifestyle and taste, so your project looks like you. It is the perfect time to add a decorator’s touch to any room. You’ll be amazed at the difference just a few carefully chosen items can make in creating an inviting, pulled-together place you never want to leave. So, let me design a window, room, or whole house of your dreams. • Made to measure blinds, shutters and draperies • Custom bedding and area rugs • Furniture • Lighting • Accessories • Wallpaper
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The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 49
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose a Chiropractor Pain is no fun. If you sprain your wrist, you're forced to use your other hand to ring doorbells and dial telephones. If you twist your ankle, you walk with a limp.
these therapies can be very effective. Every patient is unique as the treating chiropractor. Every chiropractor may not offer all types of treatments.
While neither of these pains is welcome, the inconveniences they carry with them are nothing compared to back injury. When you hurt your back, everything else hurts right along with it. You rise from bed each morning in slow motion, drag your body into a hot shower, and prepare yourself for a very unpleasant day. It may hurt to walk, stand or even sit which can make it difficult to get through a long day.
Visit your family doctor and inform them of your back problems. They may recommend a chiropractor to you right then and there (although this is rare), but even if they don't you always want to keep your family doctor in the loop. If you end up atop a chiropractor's table, an ideal situation would be to have both doctors conversing with one another about your treatments. There should be an open line of communication between your family doctor and your chiropractor.
Time is often the best medicine for a pulled back muscle, although the minutes and hours tend to pass rather slowly when your life is an agonizing blur of pain. After several weeks, the muscle will heal. However, more serious back and neck problems may require the professional attention of a highly skilled chiropractor. It's important to understand that chiropractic is a natural form of healthcare and may take some time to see results. The longer a patient has had a problem, the longer it may take to see a change in your condition. Be sure to choose a chiropractor that you are comfortable with. Don’t be afraid to questions. It is better to understand your condition
If you have to choose a chiropractor on your own, you'll need to do your homework, which means you're going to want to ask a few questions when calling clinics over the phone. That may sound like a hassle, but your spine is worth it.
and the treatments involved. There are many aspects of chiropractic such as physiotherapy, interferential
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therapy, ultrasound therapy, massage therapy and nonsurgical decompression to name a few. One or a combination of
Occasionally patients are a little apprehensive about neck adjustments. Most chiropractors offer free consultations and this will give you an opportunity to ask any questions you have about the treatment or what it entails. If you are not comfortable with neck adjustments, ask if they offer instrument adjusting, which is a very gentle way of achieving the same result. If,
for some reason, you decide that you want treatment but are uncomfortable with having your “neck popped,” tell your doctor. Don’t let this hold you back from getting the relief you need and deserve without the use of drugs or surgery. Many chiropractors will recommend maintenance care once you have completed treatment. Patients who receive maintenance care once a month or every few months are much less likely to have a recurrence of the original condition. At home exercises are just as important as the treatment you receive in office. When consulting with a chiropractor, ask if you will be given at home care plan to facilitate your overall treatment. If nutritional supplements are of interest to you, many chiropractors carry high quality products that will give you the most benefit. If there is a particular concern you may have, you may want to schedule a nutritional consultation on what are best ones for you to add to your daily regimen. Most chiropractors are gifted professionals who help people every day, and if you have a back problem that won't go away you might want to consult one. If you do, there's an easy way to tell if your chiropractor is doing a good job - you'll feel better.
Don’t Neglect the Only Body You Have Why do we regularly check our other elements, yet often neglect our spine and joints that keep us mobile? If your body is holding you back from the pleasures in life, Dr. Kelly ChullenHoppers will show how her patient-centered care can help take the ache away.
Adjustments/Manipulations DTS Compresion Therapy Chiropractic Massage
Acupuncture Electrical Muscle Stimulation Cold Laser Therapy
Therapeutic Exercise Custom Foot Orthotics Interferential Stimulation
Prior to coming to Dr. Kelly, I couldn’t turn my head in either direction due to severe neck pain brought on my arthritis. Now, I can turn my head in both directions and feel much better. Bobby L. Odum
I first came to see Dr. Kelly in November of 2009. I was in terrible pain as well as depressed. I use to work on the river and injured my lower back in 2003 and again in 2004. Also my hands, shoulders, upper back and neck began to hurt. My pain was becoming severe and I was without hope.
I have suffered pain for many years in my neck and right arm, from burns to my arm to falls as a teenager. A rear-end accident 4 years ago only enhanced the suffering I was already feeling.
I suffered from severe lower back and hip pain brought on my arthritis. After receiving treatment elsewhere with no success, I came to Dr. Kelly after meeting her at the Senior Health Fair. Within a few treatments, I was feeling better and my occasional limp was gone. I also enjoy the interaction with Dr. Kelly’s staff, who really make you feel like family. Carolyn Odum
I have been to all types of doctors but wasn’t aware of chiropractic care. Surgery made me worse and physical therapy didn’t help. I’ve tried medication after medication which has only numbed me and I couldn’t think clearly. After only a few weeks of chiropractic care, I feel amazing! I no longer have a drug dependency and now I have hope and a better me! I only wish someone had told me about Chiropractic Care sooner. Chris McRoy
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After years of taking pain medication and numerous visits to my family doctor, physical therapists and other chiropractors, I found Dr. Hoppers through a newspaper ad and hours of prayer. While I had experienced a fair amount of relief during my other visits, nothing compared to what I felt after coming to Dr. Hoppers. It was incredible! Her combination of therapy, adjustment and massage has provided outstanding results. She and her staff are so skilled and compassionate that I count the days until my next session. Marsha Russell
1 Hour Massage 1/2 Hour Massage Expires October 31, 2010
The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 51
HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Choose a Gym Choosing a fitness center should not be a hasty decision. You must feel the facility meets your needs, but also gives you a level of comfort that has you looking forward to going regular. Because while you are going to “workout”, exercise shouldn’t feel like “work” all the time.
When choosing a gym to fit your fitness goals, be sure to look for one that motivates and inspires its clients. The most popular gym facility is not always the best choice for your individual needs, so you will want to break down their services and be sure that you are in the fitness program that suits your goals and entry level abilities. “Big does not always mean better”, said Michelle Cottonaro, general manager of World of Fitness. “We offer a family environment and want our members to be comfortable during their workout time”. Whether you are a seasoned pro in the gym or have never seen the inside of a locker room, be sure you get what you pay for and enroll in a gym that caters to your individual needs. The serious gym user will seek out the services of a professional and personal trainer to devise a program with realistic goals, while encouraging and even hammering the diligent member. Though some personal trainers may seem heartless, he or she has put your best interest at hand and is there to lead you to victory with a workout you never dreamed possible. They are trained professionals to assess your fitness level and put you on a program that pushes your body to the limits at a safe and healthy pace. And for the rookie in the gym, trainers are invaluable. “All new members get 3 free sessions with our certified personal trainers to formulize a
plan best for their fitness goals”, Cottonaro said. If pumping iron is not your inspiration at the gym, you may opt for a softer approach to get into shape. Pilates is an industry in itself, and you may wish to seek out a gym with a bevy of certified Pilates instructors. The Pilates method to fitness uses smooth, gliding action to tone and firm a physique into long, lean muscles more akin to a professional dancer, rather than a jock. Yoga is also a very popular class at many fitness centers. Yogo is for all ages and fitness levels, and has become one of the most sought after workouts for pro athletes and celebrities.
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If your goal is to take classes with group involvement, then aerobics is the way to go for a fitness routine set to music and a lively atmosphere. However, be sure to enquire about the level of fitness required for each class you sign up for. Gym patrons with limited experience may best be served with a low-impact class to guard against undue pressure placed on the knees and feet. And with a little aerobics experience and some weight loss, the new student will soon graduate to a more challenging class. “We have a variety of aerobic classes available so members will be comfortable at whatever level of fitness they are at”, Cottonaro said.
1207 Weaver Rd Herrin 618-988-8878 Learn more about us at www.worldoffitnessherrin.com The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 53
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How To Choose a Health Mobility Company control on the machine.
Whether it is a recently developed need or a long-term problem, choosing mobility equipment can be an overwhelming task.
For instance, if a person has little use of their forearms and fingers, scooters would not be a good choice as they require two-handed controls. However, power chairs can offer different options for steering.
Financial limits, medical needs and accessibility requirements can all complicate the process. The numerous options can also be seen as a blessing as well as a curse.
It is also important to consider how much weight the device needs to carry. If a mobility device is used over the listed capacity it will void the manufacturer’s warranty, and thus create an expensive repair bill or the need for replacement.
Overall, more choices mean a better chance of completely meeting the needs of the person affected by the disability and their family. There are some simple ways to break down the search for a health mobility company and ensure a pleasant experience for all involved.
The storage and transport of the scooter or power chair should also be taken into consideration. If the device will be transported frequently, a lighter, foldable scooter is the best option. If the chair will be used mainly in one location then comfort features can be considered the priority.
First, establish what kind of equipment is needed now and what may be needed in the future. For instance, elderly patients often gradually increase in their need for mobility assistance. If a long-term relationship is something you would like to establish with the company for future needs, be sure to check into all the company offers. It is impossible to predict all future needs, but a physician and many mobility specialists can assist you in considering the possibilities. Current needs are usually easier to assess. To narrow down the search consider the current mobility level of the patient. Do they
need walking assistance or do they need something to carry their body weight? If it is established that a cane or walker is sufficient, finding appropriate equipment should be fairly easy. These types of devices are widely available in
most areas. If a full transportation device is needed, there are several considerations to think about. The physical capability of the operator should meet the minimum requirements of
Once the needs have been quantified, the next step is deciding how you want to make purchases. An Internet-based company offers access from any computer connected to the Web, but the downside is a lack of personal contact. These companies will likely have call centers as well, meaning calls for assistance could be transferred away from your location. The same is true for TV advertising scooter companies.
Local companies that run physical stores give customers the benefit of face-to-face contact. It is also easy to get in touch with them by simply returning to the store. Perhaps the most crucial benefit is the ability of the patient to come in and try different devices or simply view all the options. Some companies will send a delivery person along with the order when it is shipped, but you aren’t able to see the product until it is delivered. Many companies can “sell” you a wheelchair or scooter, but it is critically important that you work with someone that understands medical conditions, diagnosis, prognosis and the performance capabilities of various wheelchairs and scooters. Each insurance company, especially Medicare, has specific coverage criteria that you must meet in order for them to fund mobility equipment for you. It is important to choose a company with knowledgeable support staff that is able to explain the individual funding process that each payer source requires. The choices can seem overwhelming, but the best thing to remember is to choose a local experienced provider.
The Southern Illinoisan Sunday, September 19, 2010 Page 55
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