2 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 CONSUMER HOW-TO RECYCLE CANS & BOTTLES FOR CASH Earn extra money by not throwing away bottles and cans. Recycling instead of tossing these items can earn you extra cash and also help the environment. Recycling has become popular as the go green movement continues expanding. Recycling aluminum requires only five percent of the energy it takes to manufacturer it new. And with enough plastic bottles thrown away annually in the United States to circle the Earth four times, according to Benefits of Recycling; it makes a lot more sense to add cash to your wallet by bringing your water bottles back to Don’s Car Wash and Can Redemption Center located in Lakewood. The Can Redemption Center offers fast, friendly and convenient service allowing you to save time because they count and sort your water & soda bottles, cans & glass for you and pay you 5 cents per item. Instructions: 1. Save gas by combining your recycling trip with your shopping trip. Don’s Car Wash is your one-stop convenience store offering a bakery, car wash, propane filling station, can redemption center and so much more. The Can Redemption Center is open Monday through Saturday from 8a.m. - 6 p.m. 2. Take your bottles and cans to The Can Redemption Center collect your money and start the process over again! More recycling means more money and more feeling good about earning smart while helping to keep the Earth clean. Come and see for yourself why Don’s Car Wash was voted the Favorite Lakewood Destination in the 2010 Post-Journal Readers Choice Awards. 3 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 EVERYDAY E VERYDAY LOW PRICES! LAKEWOOD CONVENIENCE STORE BRING BACK YOUR CANS &WATER BOTTLES! SAVE TIME! THE CAN REDEMPTION CENTER WE COUNT YOUR CANS & BOTTLES FOR YOU & PAY YOU 5¢ PER CAN! THE LOWEST EVERYDAY BEER PRICES IN THE TRI-STATE AREA! 89 15 89 $ $ 15 $ 49 *while supplies last $ $ 49 49 99 15 99 $ $ 24 pk. 18 $ $ 49 49 19 19 $ $ 89 15 89 $ $ 49 19 49 $ $ 49 49 15 $$ 49 49 18 $ $ 49 49 SAVE BIG ON OUR 30 PACK EVERYDAY LOW PRICES DON’S CAR WASH Find What You Need in our One-Stop Convenience Store 184 E. Fairmount Ave., Lakewood, NY • 716-763-0486 4 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 HOW-TO CHOOSE A MATTRESS Sweet, Peaceful Rest QUALITY SLEEP IS CRITICAL TO OVERALL WELL-BEING Unfortunately, many people take sleep for granted. One of the most critical parts of our sleep habits — our mattress — can start to sag and lose its support over time, leading to pain or sleepiness that could be alleviated with a modest investment in a new sleep system. A COMPLETE SET One of the common misconceptions about mattresses is that you can replace the top mattress without replacing the box springs, or support structure underneath it. That’s not a good idea. While it might feel the same at first, after just a few months or years the mattress will be likely to show premature sagging and wear. That’s because today’s box springs are engineered to support very specific mattress models. Your old box spring system would not only be worn out, but it also would not be engineered to support the mattress in the proper places to make it last longer and provide a better sleep experience. To get the most out of your mattress, always buy it with the correct box spring set. SOFT, FIRM OR BOTH? Everyone has their own preferences about mattress hardness. Many people prefer firm mattresses to support their spine, while others find that soft, supple mattresses are more comforting. Whatever you prefer, you should remember that your initial impressions may be very different from your experience after a full night’s sleep — or even a full week. It takes time to decide the right firmness and mattress type for your needs, so ideally you should find a mattress retailer that will take it back if you’re not happy after trying it out in your own home. Likewise, air mattresses that can be adjusted to different levels of firmness are becoming a more popular option. Just make sure that you’re a smart shopper and fully understand the warranties to get a mattress that will be a good choice for the long term. Few things affect daily life as much as getting a good night’s sleep. From how well we perform at work or school to our overall mood, every day feels better when we wake up feeling completely rested. HOW-TO CHOOSE SHAW CARPET STYLES The right type of carpet for most situations is available through Shaw Flooring. Founded in 1946, the company was originally known as the Star Dye Company and specialized in dying and refurbishing throw rugs. Today, the company has grown to include its own brand of carpeting known as Queen. As of 2010, Shaw offers four styles of carpet to fit the needs of its customers. Textured One style offered by Shaw Flooring is textured. This style of carpet is for casual use and works well for living and family rooms without excessively high traffic. The short twisted threads that make up the carpet are durable and soft to the touch. It’s available in a variety of solid, patterned and varied colors, and a decorator is typically able to match the existing scheme to the new flooring. The quality, stain resistance and durability of this style depends highly on the chosen brand. Loop Loop style carpet available from Shaw Flooring comes in varied and even threads. The even loop carpets offer a higher durability while the variable loops offer a more textured appearance and softer feel. This style of carpet can stand up to more traffic than its cut thread counterparts. Loop carpet works for hallways, family rooms and bedrooms where foot traffic wears out the flooring. The various manufacturers showcased at Shaw’s Flooring offer loop style carpet in various singular colors as well as color combinations and blends. Pattern For a change in flooring look, a pattern style carpet might be in order. The combination of short loops and longer cut threads gives a more dramatic look than loop or cut alone. Typically not as durable as loop, pattern style carpeting is more decorative than durable. Good for living or formal dining areas, the style is typically one color, but is available in blends. The wear and tear durability is related to the manufacturer of the carpet. Twist For a room with high traffic and lots of visitors, twist style carpet may be the answer. The long twisted loops offer durability with a soft feel. Sometimes known as “pile” or “frieze,” the casual look fits for a family room, hallway or bedroom setting. Shaw offers a variety of this style of carpeting from different manufacturers. Mainly in singular colors, blends and patterns are available. 5 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 WE WILL INSTALL IT FREE measuring & installation with Hunter Douglas window fashions. Hunter Douglas window fashions offer a variety of choices in privacy and light control, along with endless decorating possibilities in fabric, texture, color, style and specialty hardware systems. We pride ourselves on the exceptional quality of our window fashions as well as their durability, incredibly easy maintenance and superior energy efficiency. PURCHASE ANY SPECIAL ORDER CARPET AND PADDING FOR ONE ROOM OR YOUR WHOLE HOUSE AND WE WILL INSTALL IT FREE! CERAMIC & PORCELAIN TILE *$ *$ 1399 LAMINATE FLOORING *$ *$ 799 COMPLETE COMPLETE INCLUDES TILE, SUBFLOOR, GROUTING & SETTING MATERIALS * SEE STORE FOR DETAILS INCLUDES LAMINATE FLOORING, UNDER LAYMENT, INSTALLATION * SEE STORE FOR DETAILS HARDWOOD FLOORING /4” SOLID OAK, 2 1/4” OR 3 1/4” WIDTH 3 *$ *$ 1399 COMPLETE INCLUDES HARDWOOD, INSTALLATION * SEE STORE FOR FULL DETAILS ALL ALL ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGE INCLUSIVE PACKAGE INCLUSIVE PACKAGE *12 Months No Interest On Qualifying Purchases. Covers Basic Installation, Stairs, Removal Of Old Carpet, Furniture Extra. Please See Store For Details. Cannot Be Combined With Any Other Offers. Minimum Purchase 20 Sq. Yds. “So Much More Than Just Floors” 2206 Foote Ave., Jamestown, NY • Route 60 South • 716-665-4545 • www.moransfloorstore.com Find us on your GPS @ 2186 Rt. 60 Jamestown HOURS: Mon & Fri 9-7, Tue, Wed & Thurs 9-6, Sat 9-5, Sun Closed www.moransfloorstore.hdspd.com 6 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 CONSUMER HOW-TO Choose A Waterproofing Company DETECTING A WET BASEMENT: Clued-in house hunters will take along a list of potential house problems to check as they scout for a new abode. And a wet basement is usually at the top of that list. Here’s how to detect a basement with chronic water problems, even if you haven’t had rain for a spell. CLUES TO A WATER HISTORY 1. Excessive rust around the base of the washer, dryer, furnace, oil heater, or water heater. 2. Platforms to keep the washer, dryer, hot water heater, and furnace high and dry. 3. Water marks, discoloration, or signs of rotting on wooden stairs and basement furniture. 4. A powdery white coating or efflorescence along the bottom of paneling left by evaporating water. 5. Suspicious streaks or water lines on basement walls. 6. Warped paneling or doors. 7. Rust stains on the floor where no metals objects now sit. 8. Freshly painted floors and walls that might indicate a recent water damage cover-up. 9. The presence of a sump pump isn’t a surefire sign of a waterlogged basement, but it should lead you to check for other signs. In many areas, local zoning codes routinely require the installation of sump pumps in new residential construction. If you discover that your dream house has a leaky lower level, don’t despair. Many wet basements can be permanently repaired with the right waterproofing system. Find out the cost of having the water problem solved. Then negotiate to deduct that amount from the home’s sale price. Here are some questions to ask: 1) HOW LONG HAS THE COMPANY BEEN IN BUSINESS? Why risk your money with people who may be here today and gone tomorrow? 2) WHAT IS THE COMPANY’S PERFORMANCE RECORD? 3) WHAT IS THEIR TECHNICAL PROCEDURE? 4) WHAT IS THEIR LEVEL OF PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE? 5) ARE THEY WATERPROOFING SPECIALISTS? Every Spring and Fall scores of new “waterproofing contractors” appear on the scene, - general contractors whose other business is slow, opportunists looking for a “fast dollar” during the peak periods, part timers looking for extra income. Waterproofing is a complex and difficult business, and should not be entrusted to parttime amateurs. 6) WHO IS DOING THE ACTUAL WORK? ARE THEY TRAINED? 7) WHAT IS THEIR WARRANTY? IS IT IN WRITING? IS IT A FULL WARRANTY OR MERELY A SERVICE POLICY? The Word “warranty” can cover a multitude of exceptions and conditions. Warranties should be examined carefully for “fine print” exclusion and conditions that can avoid the contractor’s future obligations--and which can leave the homeowners unprotected. Unfortunately, many homeowners have been shocked to discover to their sorrow, that the “warranty” they thought they had contained exclusion and conditions that made their “warranty” meaningless. 8) WHAT ABOUT PRICE? All Waterproofing Companies are not alike. At certain times of the year there are lots of people clamoring to “sell you basement water proofing”. THE MAIN PROBLEM IS HOW TO COMPARE THE DIFFERENT COMPANIES COMPETING FOR YOUR BUSINESS. If you are looking for a cheap price with a “hope” that THE WORK PERFORMED WILL DO THE JOB, we can’t help you. There are any number of people around with limited experience who will give you a “cheap” price. Differences in materials used, in workmanship, in the warranty,-and most important, in the experience to solve problems which come to light only after the job is started,--these differences are great. THE CORRECTION OF WATER LEAKAGE PROBLEMS SHOULD BE ENTRUSTED TO PEOPLE IN WHOM YOU CAN HAVE FULL CONFIDENCE. 7 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 B-DRY SYSTEM OF ERIE, INC. A Honey of a Company Since 1958 Celebrating 53 Years!! Facts to assist you in making an objective comparison of the B-DRY® System and other waterproofing companies *NATIONAL COMPANY B-Dry® System has locations from coast to coast and has waterproofed over 170,000 basements nationally. *IN BUSINESS OVER 50 YEARS B-Dry® System has been in business since 1958. This represents over 50 years of research, development and technical advancement in waterproofing. *F.H.A. - H.U.D. EVALUATED The B-Dry® Free-Flo System has been evaluated by F.H.A. - H.U.D. (Materials Release #1199d) *BOCA-ES EVALUATED *WALLS SEALED B-Dry® System seals the walls with our exclusive, Rigid Sealer®. This is a non permeable waterproofing material which is anti-toxic, antismoke and anti-flame. *CLOSED COVE B-Dry® System leaves no open gap between the floor and the walls, which would allow water, bugs, vermin and odors to enter your home. *FIVE CAUSES OF WATER LEAKAGE B-Dry® System addresses all five ways water enters your basement. The B-Dry® System has been evaluated by BOCA-ES for your protection. (Research Report #97-66) *NO INJECTION OF EXTERIOR WATERPROOFING SUBSTANCES The B-Dry® Thermo-Flo System is protected by U.S. Patent No. 4,590,722. *TRAINING *U.S. PATENTED SYSTEM *NON-CLOGGING PIPE Only B-Dry System has the exclusive, patented Thermo-Flo® System, specially manufactured and engineered for B-Dry® System. Others use slitted corrugated plastic pipe or ten-foot sections of perforated PVC pipe covered with gravel, which tends to calcify and restrict the flow of water. ® *BLEEDING OF BLOCKS B-Dry® System drills weepholes in every core of the bottom course of blocks. When weepholes are missed, water remains in the wall. A Honey of a Company Since 1958 B-Dry® System does not use this method. HUD does not permit loans for this type of waterproofing. All B-Dry® System consultants, installers and technical staff go through intensive training on all aspects of waterproofing technology. They also receive updated field training throughout the year. *QUALITY CONTROL B-Dry System’s local office is subject to random quality control checks by the parent company. This assures you that we adhere to B-Dry®’s proven and tried methods of waterproofing. We are required to use the highest quality materials in our patented waterproofing system. ® *COMPANY PRICE SCHEDULE B-Dry® System quotes all prices from a printed price book, and not what the traffic will bear. DO YOU HAVE A WET BASEMENT? FOR A FREE - NO OBLIGATION ESTIMATE - SIMPLY FILL IN THE INFORMATION BELOW AND MAIL TODAY TO: 2637 West 30th Street, Erie, PA 16506 Name Street City Zip State Phone OR CALL 1-800-424-BDRY (2379) *NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED You pay only when the work is completed and you are completely satisfied. All that is required is nominal fee for scheduling. *LIFE OF THE STRUCTURE WARRANTY B-Dry® System gives you a FULL Life of the Structure Warranty. The Federal Trade Commission has stated that the B-Dry® System Warranty is a FULL WARRANTY according to the guidelines of the Magnuson-Moss Act. Some companies offer a Limited Warranty, - others even contain an annual renewal charge. *WARRANTY LEFT WITH THE CUSTOMER B-Dry® System does not only tell you about its Full Warranty, we show you the actual Warranty and leave you a copy. B-Dry® System warranties are registered locally and also with our National Headquarters to insure you uninterrupted coverage. For your convenience, our National Office Number is 1-800321-0985. MAKE SURE YOU THOROUGHLY CHECK THE REFERENCES AND CREDENTIALS OF WHICHEVER COMPANY YOU ARE CONSIDERING TO WATERPROOF YOUR HOME. WE ARE CONFIDENT THAT B-DRY® WILL DESERVE YOUR CONSIDERATION SAVE $100.00 NOW WITH THIS COUPON FROM B-DRY SYSTEM OF ERIE, INC. Known For Quality Workmanship & Reliability ONE COUPON PER JOB. OFFER EXPIRES JULY 1, 2012 This exclusive patented B-DRY pressure relief waterproofing method permanently eliminated all water leakage problems and OUR WARRANTY assures you of a completely dry basement. • Prompt analysis and estimate. No obligation. Nothing says it better than our incomparable record of Lice performance. Ask our customers. Serving homes & w a t wa rr a n s e e f industry nationally, with pride since 1958. Sys erproo nts th ully e t leak em to fed wit areas • We are waterproofing specialists on any and all types of ag e h b e the TH E fr f residential & commercial basements with a completely S TR o r T H E ee fr o B D r y UCT FU L m wa o U w ter L RE trained professional staff. ner NO reg LIFE sh A OUR WRITTEN FULL WARRANTY IS YOUR PROTECTION FOR THE LIFE OF THE STRUCTURE. www.bdry.com This offer not good with any other offer. One coupon per job. ar O DDIT ip an TH E d w dless F ION labo CUS of r an TOM AL C ill at OST ER dm p TO Sho ateria rovid req uld se ls as r e such u e r inst ired, n vice b quired e otif allin . y gL icen the s ee . 8 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 CONSUMER HOW-TO Here Are Some Steps To Consider When Choosing a Hospital Taken from www.myhealthfinder.gov Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) U.S. Department of Health and Human Resources How can you choose the best quality hospital for the care you need? It is important to consider quality, because research shows that some hospitals simply do a better job than others do. For example, hospitals that do a greater number of the same surgeries have better outcomes for their patients. CHOOSE A HOSPITAL Quick Check for Quality Look for a hospital that: • Is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations • Is rated highly by State or consumer or other groups • Is one where your doctor has privileges, if that is important to you. • Is covered by your health plan. • Has experience with your condition. • Has had success with your condition. • Checks and works to improve its own quality of care. If not, do you have another way to pay for your care? If going to a certain hospital is important to you, keep that in mind when choosing a doctor and/or health plan. In general, you will go to the hospital where your doctor has “privileges.” Choosing a Hospital Worksheet Does the hospital meet national quality standards? (_) Yes (_) No Has the hospital had success with my condition? (_) Yes (_) No Research shows that hospitals that do many of the same types of procedures tend to have better success with them. How often the procedure is done there. How often the doctor does the procedure. The patient outcomes (how well the patients do). Hospitals can choose to be surveyed by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) to make sure they meet certain quality standards. The standards address the quality of staff and equipment, and-most recently-the hospital’s success in treating and curing patients. If a hospital meets those standards, it becomes accredited (gets a “seal of approval”). Reviews are done at least every 3 years. Most hospitals participate in this program. Does the hospital have experience with my condition? (_) Yes (_) No You also may want to find out if the hospital has a special team of health professionals that works with people with your condition or treatment. How well does the hospital check and improve on its own quality of care? More and more hospitals are trying to improve the quality of their care. One way is to keep track of patient outcomes for certain procedures. Another way is to keep track of patient injuries and How does the hospital compare with others in infections that occur in the hospital. By finding out what works and what doesn’t, the hospital can my area? Does my doctor have privileges (is permitted improve the way it treats patients. Ask the hospital quality management (or assurance) to admit patients) at the hospital? department how it monitors and improves the (_) Yes (_) No hospital’s quality of care. Also, ask for If not, you would need to be under the care of any patient satisfaction surveys the hospital has another doctor while at the hospital. done. These will tell you how other patients have Does my health plan cover care at the rated the quality of their care. hospital? (_) Yes (_) No THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 WCA Hospital is consistently ranked and nationally recognized by some of the country’s premier healthcare authorities. WCA Hospital and Board leadership, physicians, employees, and volunteers were once again recognized in 2011 for their outstanding performance through improving patient outcomes. WCA Hospital is accredited by THE JOINT COMMISSION This gold standard of accreditation means WCA Hospital provides the highest quality healthcare services. WCA Hospital Receives Gold Seal of Approval with Commendations by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC) Achieving this Gold Seal of Approval recognizes the highest-quality of comprehensive, multi-disciplinary cancer care services―delivered to our patients, close to home. WCA accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR) for Computed Tomography, MRI, MRI Breast, Nuclear Medicine, PET/CT, Ultrasound, Breast Ultrasound, PET/CT, Mammography Awarded 3-year term of accreditations represents the clinical and quality diagnostic excellence achievements of our dedicated physicians and trusted professionals at WCA. WCA Earns CEO Cancer Gold Standard™ Accreditation WCA joins an exclusive group of organizations that received CEO Cancer Gold Standard ™ Employer for 2011 accreditation for a second consecutive year, recognizing their commitment to taking concrete actions to reduce the cancer risk of employees and their families through screenings, early detection, and healthy changes in lifestyles. WCA . . . Voted #1 Favorite Hospital in Chautauqua County By regional consumers for a fifth consecutive year! WCA Board of Directors Awarded Advocacy Award Awarded 2011 HTNYS Political Action Committee (PAC) Award in recognition of their outstanding leadership and advocacy efforts on behalf of WCA Hospital and their communities in shaping health care reform at the local, state, and national levels. 2 WCA Physicians Named WNY “100 Top Docs” For a fourth consecutive year, two area physicians on the medical staff at WCA Hospital were named to the “100 Top Docs” in Western New York by the Buffalo Spree Magazine. Frank Arnal, MD, internal medicine with sub-specialties in pulmonology, sleep medicine and critical care; and Virginia Campion, M.D., pediatrician. 9 10 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 CONSUMER HOW-TO Choose A Credit Union W HY choose a credit union? Because credit unions are all about People Helping People. Are you tired of the creative fees banks use to make money off you? Tired of being treated like a number by an impersonal, out-of-town corporation? Check out the credit union difference. Like other financial institutions, credit unions offer a complete range of financial products and services. Unlike the others, credit unions are not-for-profit and cooperative--owned by their “members” (customers). So when you join a credit union, you own a piece of it. You get a vote and a say in how it’s run. A small minimum deposit is all it takes to open the door. Because credit unions don’t exist to make a profit, their number one concern is not money. It’s people--the people who own them. Practically, that translates into great rates, low fees...and exceptional service. Credit union eligibility is determined through an established “common bond.” Each credit union’s common bond is different. T here are credit unions that you could be eligible to join just because you live, work, worship, or go to school in the Jamestown area. Credit Unions are the only democratically controlled financial institutions in the United States. You and other members elect a volunteer board of directors to oversee the credit union. The manager or president/chief executive officer reports to that board. Bank directors, however, are paid and legally bound to make decisions that benefit stockholders, not customers C redit Unions Have Better Rates (And Fewer Fees) Credit Unions price loans, pay interest on funds you’ve deposited, and charge fees to provide you with high-quality, low cost services. Banks price products and services to make a profit. Credit Union loan rates are also better. Credit auto loans average one percent point less than banks’ auto loan rates. Credit Unions make consumer loans. Banks offer consumer loans, but really emphasize business loans. Y ou don’t just belong to a credit union. It belongs to you. Here’s how to find the credit union where you belong: 1.Search for a credit union at w ww.findacreditunion.com 2. Contact your employer to see if your company provides this benefit. 3.Contact family members to see if you can join t hrough their affiliation with a credit union. 4. Contact occupational, fraternal, religious and alumni organizations you are affiliated with to see if they are associated with a credit union. C redit Unions Educate Members About Money Matters Credit Unions routinely inform and counsel members about financial matters. They provide publications such as newsletters to keep you advised of rates, loan sales, and financial trends that affect you. Credit Unions stress education by providing materials for car and home buying to help you make informed buying decisions. Many banks simply advertise their rates and sell their services. S afe And Strong Similar to FDIC insurance on bank accounts, the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF) insures a person’s savings up to at least $250,000 - with even higher coverage available if you have a combination of individual, joint, payable-on-death, and other types of accounts. AN IMPRESSIVE TRACK RECORD...AND STILL GROWING. Credit unions started in Europe in the 1800s. The first U.S. credit union was formed in Manchester, New Hampshire in 1909. Today, more than 7,300 U.S. credit unions serve over 92 million memberowners, with savings deposits exceeding $830 billion and loans over $577 billion. For 10 consecutive years, credit unions have been rated number one in customer satisfaction by the American Banker Newspaper’s annual customer satisfaction survey. 12 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 HOW-TO A Parentʼs Guide There is no question that making the college choice can be a stressful and confusing process, but when viewed as a learning experience for the entire family, the experience can be quite positive. All the decisions and tasks associated with entering college can have the result of added self-sufficiency and even enhanced self-esteem when they are completed successfully. As a parent, you will have the satisfaction of watching the transition of your offspring into a young adult. When approached thoughtfully, making a college choice can be an excellent opportunity for parent and child to come closer together in preparation for evolving into a new kind of family – one which includes another competent adult. HTA010 CHOOSE A COLLEGE While it can be both an art and a science, selecting a college includes a third dimension – an emotional realm that involves the dynamics of a family. The decision is, and should be momentous, for it represents an important turning point in an individualʼs life – a choice which will have an impact on the rest of his or her life. It may represent the first truly significant decision your son or daughter needs to make. That is not to say that you shouldnʼt help, but as college represents the passage to adulthood, adult responsibilities should come along with it, including being in charge of the choices made. This can be a difficult transition for both children and parents, for each may be accustomed to a different way of viewing the role of the other. Yet the college selection process represents an excellent opportunity for parents to help their sons and daughters evolve from dependence to independence. How can a parent be most helpful in this decision making process? Some suggestions: 1. B e supportive. Your son or daughter needs to know you will be there to help sort through the possibilities and understand the conflicting feelings associated with this important choice. 2. H elp your son or daughter establish and complete a sound decision-making process. Good decision-making involves identifying several possible options, collecting information on each of them, weighing the alternatives, and, finally, making the best choice. 3. H elp your son or daughter make use of the range of resources available to help explore colleges. The high school guidance office, public library, and your local community college have resources ranging from a wide array of college catalogs and career information to computer-assisted guidance systems which will help with the process. The internet makes a wealth of college exploration tools available at the click of a mouse. Above all, talk to people. National research indicates that parents turn to other parents for reliable information about colleges. Donʼt overlook the resources available through guidance counselors, teachers, and college admissions representatives. 4. H elp your son or daughter review several important factors before deciding: • Size of the college. The college experience at a large university will be very different from that at a smaller community college. The campus climate thatʼs right for your son or daughter will depend on his or her particular needs. Some students flourish on a large bustling campus while others do better in a smaller, more intimate environment. • Commuting vs. moving away. At eighteen, some students are ready to begin living on their own, while others will find more success in college if they have the continuing support of the home environment. Parents can help the student review the possibilities – from dormitory, to off-campus apartment, to living at home – to determine which choice is best. As parents, you may be able to give your child valuable feedback about his/her readiness for independent living. • Choosing a major. It isnʼt essential that your son or daughter be certain about career goals at the beginning of college. In fact, large numbers of “decided” students change their minds as they progress through college. During the first year of college, students are usually expected to acquire a strong foundation in basic skills, liberal arts, and sciences upon which they can build courses in their majors. You can help your son or daughter understand that, while having a definite career goal may be helpful, it isnʼt essential to apply to and begin college. Undecided students are wise to explore colleges that offer flexibility within their academic programs. • Financial aid. The college decision is a good time to help your son or daughter begin to assume financial responsibility. While you may be planning to assist with college expenses, the college will view the student as the responsible party, so he or she should learn the costs associated with college options, investigate the financial aid available, and take responsibility for acquiring and submitting the necessary documents. This process will undoubtedly include making personal contact with financial aid offices and can provide your son or daughter with good practice in assertiveness and problem-solving. Creating a budget and planning how to live within it are also good learning experiences for the prospective college student. • Outcomes. What happens after your son or daughter graduates from college? Explore the job placement services each college offers and learn about the collegeʼs alumni. Understand the services the college provides as graduates prepare to transfer to the next level of higher education. 13 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 go beyond at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford beyond 9 to 5 Take part in more than 40 student clubs and organizations and competitive varsity and intramural athletic programs. beyond place Gain real-world experience through research, internships and study-abroad opportunities. beyond expectations Earn a world-renowned degree in a personalized environment. Ready to go beyond? Visit us at www.upb.pitt.edu. beyond books Choose from 41 majors and more than 50 minors and pre-professional programs. you can go Bradford beyond 14 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 CONSUMER HOW-TO What Do The Numbers Mean? 215/60R16 Section Width - “215” CHOOSE TIRES FOR YOUR VEHICLE How to choose the right tire? The tires on your vehicle can affect your safety and driving handling. Choose the correct tires that match both your vehicle manufacturer recommendations and your type of driving that you may do everyday. How many tires do I need? “215” indicates the tire is 215 All four tires should be identical. If your tires don’t millimeters across (tread) from match, you could have handling problems. For instance, the widest point of outer one end of your vehicle may not respond as quickly or sidewall. Aspect Ratio - “60” “60” indicates the tire sidewall height is 60% of the section width (215) from rim to tread. Radial - “R” “R” this will identify the tire construction to be a radial. (98% of all tires sold are radials) Rim Size- “16” “16” indicates the tire/wheel diameter in inches. Tires are an INVESTMENT Protect it. . . completely as the other end, making the vehicle more difficult to control. If you just need to replace one tire that has been damaged, replace it with a tire of the same brand type, size and speed rating. A tire that doesn’t match the other three tires on your vehicle could affect your driving safety. If you need to replace two tires and the remaining two have a lot of tread depth left, replace them with tires that match your existing set as closely as possible. Identical new tires are best but others of the same size and type can also provide good results. Should I buy a different type of tire? If you are replacing all four tires, you can explore another category of tires. If you want longer lasting tires, better traction or a smoother ride, there are tires that will help you accomplish this. What size tire do I need? Tires must be able to carry the weight of your vehicle. If a tire is overworked just carrying the load, it will 6,000 miles. have little reserve capacity for your vehicle to respond • Proper Air Pressure set by quickly and safely. Do not buy undersized tires. Check your owner’s manual, vehicle door jam or vehicle manufacturer specs glovebox, to find the size of tire recommended for your • Alignment -vehicle. The other size consideration is overall tire Misaligned vehicles will not only diameter. For cars and vans, stay within a +/-3 percent prematurely wear tires out but can be diameter change. Pick-ups and sport utility vehicles are usually engineered to handle up to a 15 percent oversize dangerous. Proper alignment will tire. • Tire Rotation every 5,000- extend tire life and also will improve fuel economy, improve handling and safety and reduce stress on other parts (tie rods, control arm bushings, etc.). What weather and driving conditions will the tires face? Select a tire that suits the driving conditions you face most often: • Snow or ice: snow tires • Heavy traffic: more responsive tires • Winding roads or in the mountains: A tire that handles well • Extensive highway driving: tires with a smooth, quiet ride If you face very different driving conditions (heavy snow in the winter and lots of highway driving in the summer), consider selecting two sets of tires. You’ll get better driving performances and longer total wear from your tires. What kind of “look” do I want? Think about whether you’re happy with standard tires or you want the added flair of custom wheels or plus sizing. How can I find the best value? Simple fact: In the long run, cheap tires won’t save you money. They don’t last as long as higher quality tires and may result in a rougher ride and inferior handling. Your goal in tire shopping should be to find the highest quality tire that meets your specific needs and your budget. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Tire pressure monitor systems (TPMS) is a federally mandated safety device placed on vehicles for almost 7 years now. The system is designed to monitor air pressure in the tire and alert the driver on the instrument cluster with a “low tire” or symbol. The alert light is stating that you may have a pressure issue with one or more tires. Although it is a good safety device, it is not flawless. The system may come with some headaches, not to mention the expense. The more common issue seen in the local area is corrosion. This is mainly caused by the chemicals used for ice melt on our roadways. The chemicals react with the aluminum valve stems, which in turn corrode. Things to look for: 1). A white powder substance on the aluminum valve stem. 2). The valve cap if metal will not turn (DO NOT FORCE IT) 3). The tire is not able to take air. The systems in some cases are up to 7 years old and battery life is coming to a close. Unfortunately, battery replacement only is not yet an option. The entire sensor will need to be replaced with an average cost of $80.00. 15 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 JIM BOLAND’S TIRES & COMPLETE AUTO REPAIRS MULTI MANUFACTURERS SELECTION! 333 E. Fairmount Ave., Lakewood (Across from the Mall) 763-1844 STORE HOURS: Mon-Fri 8AM-5PM • Sat. 8AM-3PM 90 Days Same As Cash! See Store For Details Passenger & Light Truck A M EM RA I D CE A N Come Meet The New Store Manager, GREG BRINK BRAKE SERVICE E SAV 25 $ ANY SERVICE OVER $250 DISCOUNT OFF REGULAR PRICE OIL, LUBE & FILTER NY STATE EMISSIONS INSPECTION TO 5 QTS $ 95 UPMOST CARS 23 Add Tire Rotation For Only $ With Coupon • Expires 3/31/12 With Coupon • Expires 3/31/12 STRUT/SHOCK SAVINGS Greg Has Extensive Experience In The Tire & Auto Service Industry! 40 E$ SAV with purchase of 4 shocks or struts With Coupon • Expires 3/31/12 500 1/2 OFF With Coupon • Expires 3/31/12 SNOW TIRE CHANGEOVER COMPUTERIZED 4-WHEEL ALIGNMENT 19 $ 95 per axle With Coupon • Expires 3/31/12 $ 49 are guaranteed for Months or 6,000 Miles. 95 6Ourswhichever works to the Customers Advantage! With Coupon • Expires 3/31/12 16 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 HOW-TO HOW-TO 1. Be sure the company you choose can answer any questions that you When it comes to getting the most for your gold it is wise to educate yourself first. You should first understand how gold buyers evaluate your items and have a good idea of what you have. Most all gold has a marking on it indicating what karat your item is. If you are unable to find the marking use a low powered magnifying glass and look for any markings. 24k gold is solid gold and anything less than that has alloys in it to make it harder. CHOOSE AN ESTATE SALE COMPANY CHOOSE A GOLD BUYER may have. 2. They should have the following answers readily available: They do all of the advertising & marketing (provide clear signage). They have experience in the geographic area sale the will take place. To be successful in liquidation, the company must have a loyal following of buyers. Ask how many people do they expect to attend the sale. If it is basically a whole house full of furniture and general household (without even having much antiques or collectibles), their answer needs to be between 300 and 500 people. Success depends on that company’s ability to get a large number of the general public that are actual buyers through that door. Ask if they do previews. To you, this means that the company is doing something that I personally and professionally find offensive to the heirs of the estate. I do not believe it is in any way in the estate’s best interest. This “preview” time, with the company says they will or will not be selling items at this time, from my experience, has been to benefit the buyers and the company selling the estate for you. This is where they allow some or all in to look at what will be sold prior to the actual sale (and they will likely “set aside items” for their regular buyers or may even sell to them in advance!). In my opinion, this practice of previews for an estate sale is a direct conflict of interest for the beneficiaries of the estate and should cause you to disqualify or at the very least take a very hard look at doing business with a company with a practice of allowing previews. 3. Do they accept cash and checks? They should certainly be able to accept both. This does not mean that they cannot refuse to accept a check from an individual, or (we won’t take temporary checks, if there is something suspicious, etc.). But, in all actuality, the checks are usually from local residents and the company will generally limit the amount of the check to something they are comfortable with covering. A bad check should NEVER affect the estate. If the estate sale company takes in a check that is not good, the estate sale company should be the one that has to worry about collecting the funds, not you. 4. Hallenbeck Antiques is here to assist families with liquidation of estates with strong ethical business practices, experience and reliability. If your gold is marked 14k it is 14/24 parts gold (58.333% gold). You can check on the Internet or the newspaper or call Hallenbeck Gold and Silver Exchange for the prevailing market price of gold. When you bring your gold or silver into Hallenbeck Gold and Silver Exchange they will weigh your gold or silver in front of you and let you know how much they are paying per ounce. Don’t trust a gold buyer who won’t tell you what they are paying per gram. When selling your gold it is important to look for a local company and to consider that company’s reputation. When selling your gold and silver to a local company like Hallenbeck Gold and Silver Exchange they are more concerned with gaining repeat business and obtaining overall customer satisfaction than they are with just making a quick sale. Hallenbeck Gold and Silver Exchange always pays you CASH for your gold, silver, and coins! 17 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 The Largest Buyer of Gold & Silver in Western New York HALLENBECK ANTIQUES & ESTATE SALES SILVER ILVER EXCHANGE GOLD & S WE WILL BEAT ANY COMPETITORS OFFER* (*see store for details) SELL YOUR: GOLD SILVER PLATINUM STERLING COINS • Full Service Onsite Estate Liquidation Sales, Very Competitive Rates. • Full Clean Out By End of Sale/Onsite Dumpster Service & Rubbish Removal • Knowledgeable Expert Pricing • If Circumstances Don’t Allow For A Sale We Have A Buyout Service STOP IN TO SEE US FOR ALL OF YOUR ESTATE LIQUIDATION NEEDS OR JUST TO SHOP OUR EVER CHANGING INVENTORY OF JEWELRY, COINS, ANTIQUES & MORE www.hallenbeckantiques.com 716-569-3449 or 716-640-4528 Office Located at: 30 W. Main St., Frewsburg, NY Hours: Mon-Sat 11am-6pm 18 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 CONSUMER HOW-TO CHOOSE A HEARING AID sure they are comfortable and that whistling is Most of the hearing aids in the United States not present. It is also during this visit that your are dispensed and fitted by Hearing Aid Hearing Aid Specialist will take additional Specialists/ Audiologist using the most measures to verify that the hearing aids are advanced, computerized procedures and state-ofproviding optimum amplification. To the-art equipment to individualize their fittings. accomplish this, many Hearing Aid Specialists Hearing aid options are fully discussed with use real-ear measures to verify the performance patients based on the results of a complete of hearing aids. This procedure allows him/her hearing aid evaluation that includes selection to assure you that the hearing aids are optimized and validation of circuits based on circuitry for your hearing loss. Finally, they will counsel chips, patient activities and lifestyle. Follow-up you extensively on the use and care of the care and hearing aid accessories are readily hearing aids and review the warranty. You’ll available from Board Certified(BC-HIS)Hearing want to ask your Specialists dispensing Specialist about assisted hearing aids. devices, seating Hearing Aid Specialists/ Why should someone with strategies in groups and Audiologist have special counseling for added training and may be found hearing loss constantly seek the benefits received from in medical centers, private best hearing aid technology for your hearing practice and have passed instruments. Finally, demanding competency their activities & needs. you will be scheduled to examinations. These return to your professionals belong to professional to fine tune several national your instruments to your activities and organizations guided by a Code of Ethics environment. requiring that Hearing Aid Specialists/ Audiologist services must be provided in an ethical progressive and professional manner How to Choose Technology Level Todays hearing aid can be divided into four major categories. All digital technology can be Hearing Aid Selection broken down into 4 levels of performance: 1) ENTRY LEVEL digital produces clear and Fitting natural sound with little control of background The hearing aid selection process begins with a noise. comprehensive hearing test. If you are a 2) MODERATE MULTI-LEVEL aids can be candidate for hearing aids your Hearing Aid changed to accommodate some group noises. Specialist will discuss this with you at the 3) ADVANCED MULTI-MEMORY will conclusion of the hearing test. They may suggest accommodate 3 or 4 different noise seeing a physician to obtain medical clearance environments semi automatically or with before purchasing hearing aids, due to possible optional buttons. medical/surgical intervention. If you agree to try 4) PREMIUM MULTI-MEMORY separates hearing aids, the Hearing Aid Specialist will noise from speech, locates noise from the side or continue or schedule a Hearing Aid evaluation. behind user and cuts noise more than voices and At this visit, the Hearing Aid Specialist will does it automatically or with remote control/ discuss the available styles and technologies that override. Your Specialist will review your are most appropriate for you. Also at this visit activities and help you choose the correct level he/she will take impressions of your ear canal, you need to succeed with your experience. Some explain the policies and 45 day trial* and how premium aids can switch automatically so that the instruments are dispensed. He will inform both ears cut down all noise and both ears pick you of the cost of the instrument or the nominal up the telephone using Blue Toothe Streamer trial fees. technology. Using Blue Tooth, instruments can Usually, it requires one week for the hearing even focus on platform or pulpit for added aids to arrive. At the Hearing Aid Fitting, you clarity regardless of distance. will wear the hearing aids for the first time to be *N.Y. State Law 5 Points for Hearing... 1. Know your rights about a trial period as you adjust to an aid. 2. Be aware that it may take a while for the brain to adjust to better hearing, so you can’t always determine right away if you will like your new help. 3. Bring appropriate expectations: hearing aids may help you cope more effectively in communication, but they will not restore normal hearing. 4. Be aware that hearing aids do not work equally well in all situations. 5. There will be provider return policies but there may be state laws to protect you as well. 19 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 th v r a s r e i n n A y The HEARING AID FITTING, Then Complete HEARING SERVICES 38 FREE Hearing Aid Evaluations Telephone Amplifiers DIGITAL Hearing Systems Senior/MEDICARE Discounts MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED Loaners Trade-Ins House Calls FREE (UFCW, HMO’s, Locals, BC-BS) Peoples, Empire, Univera DOORSIDE PARKING THANK FOR VO YOU TING US #1! Call For An Appointment COUPON VIDEO EAR SCAN 716-484-7777 Peter D. Lumia BC-HIS … this safe procedure allows an image of your ear canal to be photographed. You will observe the EarScan on the Color TV Monitor. The EarScan is extremely helpful in the early detection of some developing conditions and an accurate visual tool to determine … I Visible Ear Fluid I CONDITIONS of the Eardrum I GROWTHS in the Ear Canal I Causes of FEEDBACK in HEARING AIDS I OBSTRUCTIONS in the Ear Canal I EAR WAX ACCUMULATION 3* L A I C SPE R FREE YEA ERIES T BAT I *With This Coupon & New Order COUPON Jamie Diane Peter D. Lumia 641 Foote Ave., (716)484-7777 JAMESTOWN 116 E. Main St., (716) 326-3277 WESTFIELD *Not a medical test, for hearing aid candidacy only 20 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 CONSUMER HOW-TO Simply and Beautifully Remodel Your Bathroom T he Bathroom Remodeling Process... BATH FITTER Style C an mold grow behind the new wall and under the new tub? Removing a bathtub is a difficult and messy job. The process can damage flooring, walls and plumbing, and put your bathroom out of service for days. When you choose BATH FITTER, we will install a beautiful new acrylic bathtub liner right over your old one in a matter of hours. No, mold only grows in the presence of moisture. Our system seals and waterproofs the underlying area. Therefore, mold will not grow. We ensure this by thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the existing surfaces prior to installing the new tub and wall. W hy shouldn’t I just use bathtub resurfacing or bathtub refinishing? H ow long will a BATH FITTER acrylic bathtub liner or shower surround last? Repainting can make a bathtub look very good. Unfortunately, such painted-on finishes are fragile and require special care. Most jobs we have encountered have to be redone within two to five years. There is also a strong odor associated with repainting, and the coating requires three or four days to dry. You may want to ask someone who has used bathtub refinishing to see what they thought of the process and the results. Additionally, bathtub resurfacing does not provide a long-term solution that’s seamless and easy to clean. Installing a BATH FITTER acrylic tub liner or acrylic shower provides a long-lasting, efficient solution to revive your bathroom. I s the one-piece BATH FITTER wall installed right over my old tile? Yes. Our unique, one-piece seamless wall system is installed right over existing tiling. If necessary, we repair any bad spots in your wall first to ensure a solid, secure base for your new tub surround or shower surround. H ow will it look when it’s done? A BATH FITTER shower surround, bathtub liner or shower conversion installation will transform your bathroom beautifully and look like you installed a brand new bathroom. Our products are durable and virtually maintenance free. Acrylic baths and showers have been used extensively in bathtubs and spas throughout North America for 25 or 30 years and much longer in Europe. Acrylic, unlike porcelain, fiberglass or enamel surfaces, can be maintained and kept looking brand new even after years of use with the application of a simple buffing compound. Also, because the material is colored all the way through, minor scratches won’t show and deeper ones can be buffed out. W hen you choose BATH FITTER, we will handle all aspects of your bathroom remodel from start to finish. Here is how we do it: 1. We take precise measurements of your existing\ bathtubs, showers, shower enclosures and tub surrounds. 2. Your new units will be custom manufactured in one of our state-of-the-art facilities. We produce our bathtub liners and shower surrounds tailored to each customer’s specific needs and measurements. 3. Our finished acrylic baths and showers are shipped on our fleet of specially equipped tractortrailers, ensuring safe and on-time deliveries. O ur factory-trained, certified technicians will install your new products quickly and cleanly in just one day. THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 21 22 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 CONSUMER HOW-TO Vital Statistic Information For Legal Documents and Obituaries Name: First, middle or initial, nick name (if applicable), maiden and last name Address: Permanent legal address including street, city, county and zip code. Previous Residence: Included when a former address was home for a long time Birth Place and Birth Date: City and State of Birth and Full date of birth Social Security Number: Confirm correct number for legal documents. Social Security Number and Date of Birth of Spouse: For legal documents. Spouse: Full name. If wife, maiden name as well. If spouse is deceased, full date of death Father’s Name: First, middle or initial, and last name. Mother’s Name: First, middle or initial, maiden and last name. Occupation: Main places of employment, positions held, length of employment and retirement dates Memberships: Church, clubs and organizations as well as the positions and offices held. Continued on next page CHOOSE A FUNERAL HOME Funeral directors are privileged to serve families and the public in times of exceptional need. Obtaining information regarding available services assists families in making knowledgeable decisions and provides a measure of peace about final arrangements. A funeral offers the occasion to celebrate a life, and is a time to reflect and to share in the deepest sense. As there is no single proper funeral service, the choices you and your family make determine its meaning and the opportunity for healing. The funeral director guides family members as they begin to move through the grief process, nurturing a climate which encourages individuals to give and to receive emotional support. When death occurs, contact your funeral director immediately. Regardless of the day or the hour, they are prepared to respond to your needs quickly and to usher you through the array of choices and decisions that need to be made. Your funeral director can help with every aspect of the funeral process, regardless of your funeral preferences, including: • Transporting the deceased to the funeral home • Making an appointment for an arrangements conference to discuss service and merchandise options (casket, burial vault, urn, etc.) • Securing information for necessary legal forms and for the obituary • Preparing the body as desired • Coordinating and supervising the service, burial and/or cremation details Closure and grief are terms often used in dealing with the loss of a loved one. Closure is unique to each person as is grief itself. Death, in its finality, is often more easily ignored than met. Arranging a funeral allows the family to honor the wishes of the deceased while providing closure for those who remain. O ptions to consider Just as we are unique individuals, so too are funeral and memorial services. A common misconception is that at the time of death only two choices exist: immediate cremation of the body or a complete funeral with visitation, followed by burial. In fact, a range of options is available. Cremation and burial are each methods of final disposition and as such, are just one part of a service. Funerals (a service with the body present), memorial services (without the body present), visiting hours, the place of the service, and the final disposition may be selected in a variety of combinations. Maestro Leonard Bernstein once said, “Funerals are for the living...to rejoice in the one who has caused this coming together.” P re-arranging a funeral service Prearranging is a helpful tool in being prepared for final arrangements. It is often done with the desire to ease the burden for surviving family members, and to alleviate questions and confusion at the time death occurs. The first step is to meet with the funeral director in order to have your questions answered, as well as provide vital statistic and obituary information and service wishes. You may include your family, or consult with them to make them aware of your prearrangements, giving them time to think and to reflect on the decisions made. Prearrangements may be updated at any time and are kept on file at the funeral home. Funding the pre-arranged service is possible and may help to alleviate financial burden on family members. It allows you to provide for the specific kind of service you desire and to set aside funds in an FDIC insured trust account according to New York State guidelines. In New York State there is never a charge for this prearrangement. The charges, which are considered here, are included when the services are performed. Many rely on life insurance to be in place at the time of the service. Each situation is different and should be discussed for security and peace of mind. It is important to know that those who are eligible for Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are entitled to “prefund” their funeral expenses by establishing an Irrevocable Trust Account. These designated funds are for the sole purpose of paying for funeral and burial expenses and are not considered part of an individual’s financial resources by Medicaid. L ind Funeral Home, Inc. In acceptance of our responsibilities, and as a condition of membership in Selected Independent Funeral Homes*, Lind Funeral Home, Inc. affirms the following standards of Good Funeral Practice and hereby pledges: • To provide the public with information about funerals, including prices, and about the functions, services and responsibilities of funeral directors. • To afford a continuing opportunity to all persons to discuss or arrange funerals in advance. • To make funerals available in as wide a range of price categories as necessary to meet the needs of all segments of our community and to affirmatively extend to everyone the right of inspecting and freely considering them all. • To quote conspicuously in writing the charge for every funeral offered and identify clearly the services, facilities, equipment and merchandise included in such quotations. • To furnish each family at the time of funeral arrangements are made a written memorandum of charges and to make no additional charge without the approval of the purchaser. • To make no representation, written or oral, which may be false or misleading and to apply a standard of honesty in all dealings. • To respect all faiths, creeds and customs and to give full effect to the role of the clergy. • To maintain qualified and competent staff, complete facilities and suitable equipment required for comprehensive funeral service. • To assure those we serve the right of personal choice and decision in making funeral arrangements. • To be responsive to the needs of the poor, serving them within their means. • To comply fully with the requirements of the FTC Trade Regulation Rule on funeral practices. *Selected Independent Funeral Homes, founded in 1917, is the world’s oldest and largest association of independent funeral homes whose membership is by invitation only. THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 Continued from previous page Education: Number of years of high school and college, as well as place of education (high school and college), years of graduation, and degree received Marriage: Marriage date Funeral Place: Physical location of the service (i.e., funeral home, church, cemetery, etc.) Clergy: Name of clergy and church they serve Cemetery: Cemetery, grave location and lot owner’s name Visiting Hours: Options often include 2-4 & 7-9 p.m., 2-4 p.m., 7-9 p.m., one or two hours prior to the service Memorials: A favorite charity or church may be designated for memorial donations Survivors: Names and cities of residence of spouse, children, grandchildren, parents, brothers & sisters and companions. Number of great grandchildren. Preceded in death by: Name and date of death of family members: parents, spouse, children, grandchildren, brothers and sisters Personal information: Interests, hobbies and activities for which the deceased was known Telephone Number and Email: of next of kin and close family members. 23 24 HOW-TO THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 PLAY AIRSOFT HOW-TO USE A METAL DETECTOR Airsoft is a fun, fast paced, exhilarating game that can be played by young and old. Well, as a beginner, your first question might be to ask what airsoft is. Airsoft is a game very much alike to paintball, in which you shoot at opposing players with airsoft guns. The ammunition used in this game is a 6 millimeter plastic BB. These BB’s are fired from the airsoft guns at the average speed of 300 fps (feet per second). Depending on the type of gun you use, the fps can increase or decrease. When these BB’s hit your skin, they sting and occasionally leave a red mark, but this wears off. After all, you can deliver the same damage to your opponent as well. If you are one of the many metal-detecting enthusiasts in the world then you probably already know how to work a metal detector efficiently. However, many beginners in the field often wonder what it’s like to use a metal detector and usually try to find a metal detector brand that is good for starters. The Quick Silver Bounty Hunter Metal Detector is actually one of the better metal detectors to start out with, so here is how to begin working with this type of metal detector. THE THINGS YOU WILL NEED TO PLAY ARE: 1. An airsoft gun 2. Airsoft BB’s 3. A group to play with 4. A “field” 1. Familiarize yourself with the metal detector by taking a look at the metal detector body and LCD screen and using sweeping motions with the detector just to get a “feel” of what it will be like in a real outdoor situation. 2. Go to an outdoor location where you plan to use the metal detector. Some locations that will give you optimum use of this metal detector include sandy beaches, damp grass, and even shallow water situations. 3. Place the headphones from the metal detector package over your ears. 4. Turn on the metal detector by pressing the “On” touch pad. 5. Increase or decrease the depth sensitivity of the metal detector by pressing the “Depth Select” button once, twice, or three times after the detector is turned on. The illumination of three full segments means that the metal detector is the most sensitive to objects in the ground. 6. Begin your metal detecting outdoor activity by beginning to walk over the ground with the metal detector, being sure to keep the metal detector at most a half-inch off the ground to allow for the best use of the detector. 7. Sweep the metal detector over the ground while walking. The correct swinging motion of the metal detector is in a flat, even-with-the-ground sweeping motion (sweeping the metal detector like a pendulum is the wrong way). 8. Pay attention to either the illuminated lights over the row on your LCD screen labeled “Detect” or the sounds you hear in the headphones to determine what type of metal you have found in the ground. Iron objects (tiny metal objects and very small gold pieces) will elicit a bass tone; “Al Zn” objects, such as post-1982 pennies, zinc coins, gold rings and foil pieces will elicit a high medium tone; aluminum objects and coins, such as silver coins, dimes, quarters, and larger gold rings will elicit a high tone. 9. To eliminate objects from being detected that you may not care to find, such as nails, pull-tabs from soda pop cans, and bottle caps, press the “Reject” button. The “Reject” button will eliminate those unwanted objects and, thus, not detect them. 10. Once you have heard a desired tone response from the metal detector, take this opportunity to sweep the metal detector over the desired spot multiple times to make sure something is buried. 11. Pinpoint where the object lies by visually taking note of the spot where the metal detector beeps over the ground, and stop your metal detector directly over that spot. (Note: the metal detector will not beep if it is held motionless over a buried metal object.) 12. Practice with the metal detector daily to hone your “detecting” skills by using the metal detector in different locations at different times throughout the day. A good gun will cost anywhere from 30 dollars to 50 dollars. BB’s are relatively cheap and can be bought in different sized packs. Buying these in bulk is a good idea because you will spend them fast. Now, you need a group of friends to play with you. Choose an even number of people, as this will make teams fair. The “field” as it is called, is where you actually play. Woods are the easiest, as cover is already naturally there. An open field is alright though, it will just need a bit of work. Making a fort is suggested, and plywood leaning on a sawhorse is easy to assemble as cover. Trash cans and other useless junk can make the field interesting and fun. Old barns and other buildings make the game take on a new shape. An abandoned office is a great place to play for an intensely fast game. Playing woods can make for a very tactical game. Out in a field you get games full of drastic changes and gutsy movements. This also makes for a lot of running. TO ADD A SPICE TO YOUR GAMES, YOU CAN PLAY DIFFERENT GAME TYPES INSTEAD OF THE SAME OLD TEAM DEATHMATCH. SOME COMMON AND POPULAR GAME TYPES ARE: 1. Capture the Flag Self explanatory 2. Hostage Rescue There is a hostage that must be rescued by one team, while the terrorist team tries to keep the hostage and fight off the rescue team. If the hostage escapes, then the goal of the terrorist team is to kill the hostage. 3. King of the Hill Both teams battle for control of a certain position. This game works best if the position is elevated in some way. 4. Assassination One man is the President, one team tries to kill him, the other team is the Secret Service and tries to escort him to the “Safe Zone.” 5. Black Hawk Down One man is the chopper pilot and is lightly armed and must stay in one location until the rescue team arrives. The other team, the terrorists, try to kill the pilot. The rescue team attempts to take the pilot back to the LZ, where they wait for a short time (say 30 seconds) for the helicopter to arrive and take them away. Remember to wear eye protection while playing, as a BB to the eye could render the recipient of the BB blind. I hope this guide has been instructive and helpful. I encourage you to explore the world of airsoft, and invite your friends to join you. Be safe and have fun! INSTRUCTIONS TIPS & WARNINGS • Be aware of Electromagnetic Interference, such as electric power lines, computers, and other electronic devices that will cause the metal detector to beep erratically. Either stay a great distance away from these interferences (approximately thirty feet) or reduce the sensitivity to your metal detector as discussed in Step 5. THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 AIRSOFT REMOTE CONTROL HELICOPTORS 3 Channel & 4 Channel 25 26 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 CONSUMER HOW-TO CHOOSE AN AUTOBODY REPAIR SHOP GOOD HOMEWORK WHEN YOU CHOOSE A BODY FIRST STEP IN SHOP FOR REPAIRS, GOOD COLLISION REMEMBER THAT: REPAIR WORK OVERLAND PARK, KS - You would never go to a doctor before checking their credentials and references, so why wouldn’t you do the same when taking your car in for collision repair? CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts offers the following tips for getting to know a collision shop before turning over your car to them. “It’s all about doing your research, making sure they are welltrained, certified and financially solid, and confirming all of the details of the repair process in writing.” “Just doing some homework in advance can save a lot of headaches and money in the long run.” • Do your homework and check out the shop, their reputation, the business or trade associations they belong to and if their technicians are I-CAR Trained. • All reputable repair facilities will offer a warranty of some sort for the work that they complete...make sure it is in writing and well explained to you. • If the repair work is being done in a shop that the insurance company recommended, they will have leverage to assist you should there be an issue in the process or after the repair is complete. • Only trust your vehicle to an established body shop business. Beware of fly-by-night operators trying to make a quick buck off of weather events like hail storms or tornadoes. If they are set up in a tent or temporary location, don’t trust them with your vehicle. • Visit the body shop and survey the location. If the lobby, customer areas and repair bays are clean and well-organized, it’s more likely the business is run well. • Talk with the body shop staff to determine if they will treat you with respect and honesty. Once your car arrives at the body shop for repairs, there are some things you should keep in mind to ensure you receive a quality repair: • Review the estimate in detail, but remember that it is for the visible damage and what it will take to repair the vehicle to pre-accident condition. If the estimate does not cover the full extent of damage, a Supplement will be created, submitted to your or the other person’s insurance company for approval. • Get a detailed description of the parts to be replaced and whether they are OEM, new or refurbished, and in what condition the car will be returned to you. Most insurance policies specify pre-accident condition, so your sevenyear old minivan might not come back looking brand new. • Get an exact timeline of when the work will be done and when the job will be completed. 1) Review the estimate in detail, but remember that it is for the visible damage and what it will take to repair the vehicle to pre-accident condition. If the estimate does not cover the full extent of damage, a Supplement will be created, submitted to your or the other person’s insurance company for approval. 2) Get a detailed description of the parts to be replaced and whether they are OEM, new or refurbished, and in what condition the car will be returned to you. Most insurance policies specify pre-accident condition, so your seven-year old minivan might not come back looking brand new. 3) Get an exact timeline of when the work will be done and when the job will be completed. 4) Detail the payment terms and methods, including downpayment, final payment and costs for any follow-up work. 5) Ask the store manager for regular updates on the job, and require approval for any work done outside the original estimate. 6) Don’t be pressured to accept the completed repair if you don’t think it’s right. Contact your insurance agent for guidance. While your car is in the body shop, it’s a good time to have other dents and dings repaired. It should be more costeffective and your car will ultimately benefit. “Taking your car to a body shop doesn’t have to be an intimidating or frightening process. A good collision center is your partner in repairing your car and returning you to the road safely. You want to make sure you do your research to find a partner that truly fits your repair needs.” CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts offers high-quality, reliable repair service in 30 states and 10 Canadian provinces. Just call 1-800-CARSTAR when you need a vehicle repair and they will send the tow truck, contact your insurance company, arrange for a rental car and repair your car. For information and store locations visit www.CARSTAR.com. A bout CARSTAR CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts is the largest group of branded collision repair facilities in North America with over 380 locally owned and operated locations in 30 states and 10 Canadian provinces. CARSTAR is committed to providing consistent quality services to our customers and insurance partners and has repaired more than 2.5 million vehicles since it was founded in 1989. Our technicians and front office staff receive ongoing training to ensure they are qualified to work on any vehicle. Customer satisfaction is our number one priority as we consistently lead the industry in customer satisfaction ratings. 27 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 Ask About Our Year Nationwide Warranty 5 For Every Vehicle Repaired At Our Shops, We Make A Donation To The Make-A-Wish Foundation. Ask About Our Year Nationwide Warranty Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed 5 •Over 30 Years Experience • State of the Art Repair & Refinishing Equipment • Certified Technicians • Prompt, Courteous Service INDEPENDENTLY OWNED • Rental Car Assistance NATIONALLY SUPPORTED • Pickup & Delivery Service • Insurance Claims Assistance • Environmentally Sensitive •24 Hour Towing •Free Estimates GARY’S CARSTAR 839 Foote Ave., Jamestown • 488-6120 www.carstar.com CUSIMANO’S CARSTAR 2597 S. Work St., Falconer • 665-5102 28 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 CONSUMER HOW-TO Immediate And Long-Term Benefits Replacing your old windows and doors requires less time and money than you might expect and can improve the re-sale value of your home, improve appearance and reduce maintenance. Lowering your heating and air conditioning bills (while improving your comfort) is probably the most immediate and quantifiable benefit that comes from replacing your old windows and doors. CHOOSE WINDOWS & DOORS T YPES OF WINDOWS & DOORS T YPES O F G LASS There are three basic types of windows and doors, as defined by the material from which the frames are made. The type of glass you choose for your replacement windows and doors can be one of the most important choices you make. Many of the glass options discussed below can be combined to provide multiple benefits. V INYL More and more windows and doors are being made of vinyl or similar materials such as fiberglass. Windows with vinyl frames have excellent insulating properties. Vinyl does not conduct heat or cold easily, and the multi-chambered design of vinyl frames adds insulating value. Although vinyl frames usually can’t be painted, they also do not peel or deteriorate in the same way as wood. The quality and cost of vinyl windows and doors varies considerably. When evaluating quality, you should pay particular attention to the finish of the frames and whether or not the joints are welded. A LUMINUM In warmer climates, aluminum windows and doors remain a popular choice. Although aluminum conducts heat and cold more easily than wood or vinyl, more energy-efficient aluminum frames incorporate thermal breaks that prevent heat or cold from being conducted through the frame. Aluminum frames also offer the greatest benefits of strength, low maintenance and relatively low cost. While old aluminum products were usually unpainted, today’s aluminum windows and doors are finished with a durable electrostatic paint process in a variety of colors for low maintenance and a traditional appearance. W OOD Originally, most windows and doors in all parts of the country were made of wood. However, fewer than half of the windows being installed today are wood. Wood has good insulating properties and can be painted or stained in a virtually unlimited number of ways. Of course, wood that’s exposed to the elements may rot or warp, and eventually has to be repainted. Many wood windows are now sheathed or clad with aluminum or vinyl on the exterior to reduce maintenance. Good quality wood windows and doors tend to be more expensive than other types of framing material. C USTOM VS. STOCK SIZES Whatever type of windows or doors you’re selecting, you can choose products that are made specifically to fit the openings when you replace the old windows in your home. This can provide a significant advantage over the stock frame sizes offered by some window companies or available for purchase “off the shelf” at lumberyards and home centers. With custom-made windows, you can be sure of getting the exact size window you need, which is important for proper installation. W INDOWS A N D D O O R S T Y L E S Windows and doors come in a number of styles. Just because you have one style in your home now doesn’t mean you can’t replace it with a different style. C a s e m e n t w i n d o w s open and close using a crank lever. The casement style opens up the entire window area to the breeze, and seals very tightly against drafts and moisture. Casement windows also provide easy egress in case of emergency. S i n g l e h u n g w i n d o w s open and close by moving the lower panel or sash of the window. Thus, only half of the window area can be opened for ventilation. This is the most traditional-looking style of window. D o u b l e h u n g w i n d o w s are virtually the same as single hung windows except that both the upper and lower sashes can be moved. The advantage is that you can adjust the sashes so that warmer air escapes at the top of the window opening while cooler air enters from the bottom. I n s u l a t i n g g l a s s can help save on both heating and air conditioning bills. It consists of two panes of glass separated by an insulating air space. The insulating value is increased if the air space is filled with an inert gas such as argon. Insulating glass also helps to reduce outside noise, and reduces condensation on the interior pane. L o w - e c o a t i n g s can enhance the energy efficiency of windows and doors, reduce condensation, and help screen out the harmful ultra-violet (UV) rays that fade your furniture, carpeting and paintings. These nearly invisible coatings can be applied to windows in different ways to reduce wintertime heat loss in cold climates or to reduce summertime heat gain in warm climates. Softcoat (or sputtercoat) low-e must face the interior side of the insulating glass, because it is subject to damage from weather or window washing. Hardcoat low-e is durable enough to be used with single-pane glass, but is typically considered somewhat less effective than soft coating. To get the maximum benefit from a low-e coating, it’s critical to choose the coating that’s most appropriate for your specific climate and for the orientation of the windows and doors to which it’s being applied. Tinted glass can be effective in reducing solar heat gain and glare inside a home and in filtering out damaging UV rays. In warmer climates where solar heat is the major cause of high energy bills, tinted glass has proven to be an economical way of lowering these costs, as well as improving interior comfort. Care must be taken in choosing the tint that’s right for you. Some tints will lower solar heat gain while still letting through bright light. Other, darker tints can provide privacy without the use of draperies or blinds. S afety or tempered glass shatters into small pieces without sharp edges when broken. Building codes require tempered glass for all glazed doors and typically for any glazed area that’s less than 18 inches from the finished floor. Tempered glass is also a suitable option for any window where additional strength is required. I mpact-resistant glass is an excellent option for meeting building codes that require windows and doors to be protected against penetration by windborne debris. Impactresistant glass consists of two panes of glass laminated together with a polymer interlayer. In addition to providing hurricane protection, windows and doors with impact-resistant glass also offer protection against intruders, outside noise and fading UV light. Impactresistant glass meets the same requirements for safety glazing as tempered glass. O bscure glass admits light but can’t be seen through. It may be an ideal choice for a bathroom window. FACTORS T O E VA L U AT E C l i m a t e If you live in an area with cold winters and hot summers, you’ll save on both heating and air conditioning bills if you choose windows with energy-efficient frames, insulating glass and low-e coatings. If you live in an area with mild winters, lower-cost aluminum frames may be your most economical choice, but you still may want to consider insulating glass, low-e glass or tinted glass to reduce fading, glare and air conditioning bills during the summer. H o r i z o n t a l r o l l e r w i n d o w s are like a single and double hung window turned on it’s side. One or both of the sashes move sideways on rollers to open the window. Horizontal roller windows can be an economical choice for larger openings. Wi n d o w L o c a t i o n You may choose to add options such as insulating glass, low-e coatings or tints to windows and doors only in certain locations where you’ll receive maximum value for your investment. For instance, if you live in a warmer climate, you might choose glass with a low Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) to minimize glare and solar heat gain on south- or west-facing windows. If you live in a colder climate, you may want to invest in glass with a low U-factor to reduce heat loss from windows and doors that are particularly exposed to winter winds or greater temperature drops. Aw n i n g w i n d o w s can be compared to a casement window turned on its side. One or more sashes open from the bottom by means of a crank. Like casements, awning windows provide 100% ventilation when open. Like anything else, there’s more to windows than meets the eye. In choosing replacement windows and doors, you’ll have the following choices, all of which can have a bearing on energy efficiency... F i x e d l i t e w i n d o w s do not open at all, but are designed to provide light and architectural interest where ventilation is not needed. They range from the familiar picture window style to squares, circles, octagons and a variety of other shapes, in virtually any size. F rames The frames of a window or door comprise 30% of the unit. Appearance, maintenance, cost and energy efficiency are each important factors in choosing the right type of frame. For more information, see “Types of Windows & Doors.” S l i d i n g g l a s s d o o r s come in two-, three- or four-panel versions. They provide a contemporary look and are popular for providing access to pools, patios and decks. Pay particular attention to the rollers and how easily the doors slide. S tyle Some styles of windows and doors may be more energy-efficient than others. For instance, casement windows usually offer the tightest seal against drafts and moisture but typically cost more than other window styles. For more information, see “Window & Door Styles.” F r e n c h d o o r s offer a more traditional, elegant look. Fixed panels can be used in combination with operable doors. G lass Since glass comprises 70% or more of the window or door unit, your choice of glass can play a significant role in the energy savings you can expect. For more information on different glass options, see “Types of Glass.” 29 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 Seaway CCustom-Built ustom-Built Replacement Windows & Doors The Perfect Combination It’s Your Home … The Choice Is Yours. Installed by our EXPERIENCED STAFF D & S GLASS SERVICE FREE of Erie, PA 333 Fluvanna Ave., Jamestown (Across from Arbyʼs) • 6 64-9321 In-Home Estimates! 30 THE POST-JOURNAL, Consumer Connections - How-To Guide, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 The Post-Journal is committed to protecting the environment and is one of the leading recyclers in our region. • During 2008, The PostJournal, with the help of its employees, was able to recycle 1,235,520 pounds of newsprint, which helped to save over 10,500 trees1. • In the past year, The PostJournal recycled more than 19,800 pounds of aluminum, which saved enough energy to run your television for 2,232 hours2. • 6,144 pounds of cardboard is recycled each year by the The Post-Journal. 1 2 According to Earth-911 Energy and conservation facts. 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