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In the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.MinnLocal.com – Thursday, February 24, 2011 – How To 3

It may be a gift to those you loveIt was Ben Franklin who said nothing is cer-

tain but death and taxes. This article does notdeal with taxes, but rather the other certaintyin life.

Everyone dies, so a discussion of funeral plan-ning is never irrelevant. When someone we lovedies, there are varying stages of anger, confusionand numbness. The funeral is one of the mostsignificant means we have of dealing with grief.The funeral ritual helps us focus our emotionsand brings a sense of meaning to death. It con-firms the reality of death and provides a catalystfor mourners to talk about the deceased. Expertstell us being able to talk about the life of adeceased loved one is one of the first stepstoward accepting death.

Prearranging your funeralPrearranging your funeral is not much differ-

ent than any other planning you have carriedout during your lifetime. You buy insurance incase of fire, flood, theft or death. These cover-ages are purchased as an act of love and respon-sibility for those you love in case an unfortunateincident occurs.

A pre-planned funeral accomplishes the samegoals. A preplanned funeral can prevent your fami-ly members from having to make a number of sig-nificant decisions at a time when they are confusedand upset. They will have enough on their mindsdealing with grief without having to make severalimportant decisions in a very short period of time.Experts tell us that there are an average of 50 deci-sions to be made when arranging a funeral.

Adding to the need for preplanning is thefact that our lifestyle is more complex intoday’s world. Family members often live in dif-ferent states, complicating rapid decision mak-ing. Further complications stem from frustra-tions that occur when dealing with governmentagencies in different states. A solid preplan-ning session can help prevent these complica-

tions which can loom very large during a timeof pain and sorrow.

How to planA call to a funeral director or a pre-arrange-

ment specialist probably would be a good begin-ning in making sure you have covered all yourbases in your planning. He or she can lead youthrough a process to ensure you don’t forgetvital information in your plan. Some funeraldirectors and prearrangement specialists offerfree booklets that provide a “punch list” of top-ics to think through and record your wishes.

Topics in these guides include funeral detailsranging from visitation to the memorial serviceand alternatives from burial, cremation orentombment. These are obvious decisions, butother important topics include categories thatwill provide a helping hand to your family.

Additional topics include organizations tobe notified with phone numbers, persons to benotified, medical history, estate information,banking information, real estate holdings andinsurance policies. Many include obituaryinformation outlines, personal property inven-tories and special instruction and informationpages. There may also be information regard-ing the importance of your will and how to goabout ensuring it is accurate and updated.

Prefunding your funeral Prefunding your funeral also is an important

consideration. Your funeral director or pre-arrangement specialist can show you optionswhich will waive your family from possiblefinancial burden later. You may take out a lifeinsurance policy which would cover funeralexpenses, or invest in a funeral trust account orfinal expense insurance policy. In most cases,funds invested today would be enough to coverthe total cost of the funeral since interestearned by the funds will offset the effect ofinflation.

Government regulations safeguard yourinvestment so funds will always be available foruse. Another important part in your plan is tomake sure your loved ones know where yourrecorded wishes can be found. Millions of dol-lars in government and insurance death bene-fits go unclaimed because family members donot know where to find information they needat the time of death. Some considerations thatalso need to remain in the forefront of the pre-planning agenda:

• Social Security: When a loved one dies,dependents and survivors may be eligible forcertain benefits such as death payments, sur-vivor’s benefits and Medicare. Qualificationsdepend on several factors such as age, maritalstatus, number of dependent and whetheremployment was under Social Security. YourSocial Security account should be verified peri-odically to ensure contributions are posted. Allbenefits must be applied for since payments arenot automatic.

• Veterans Benefits: Honorably discharged vet-erans are entitled to benefits that may affect deci-sions about funeral arrangements. For example,veterans may qualify for a cemetery plot and bur-ial allowances, a headstone and burial flag, aswell as pension for survivors.

• Medicaid: Having a properly structuredprepaid funeral is a very important reason whypreplanning a funeral is imperative. If an indi-vidual has placed their funds into a prepaidfuneral plans, after they have itemized a funer-al pre-arrangement, the money would mostlikely be protected 100% from paying for anynursing home costs. In most cases they can alsopay for burial space items for their immediatefamily members. Each persons situations isunique and laws change, however, most funeraldirectors and pre-arrangement specialistswork closely with Elder Law Attorneys whokeep them updated on current MedicalAssistance laws.

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How to...


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The biggest myth about custom-built cabinets and cabinetry is, well,who can afford them?

Though pricing can go fromaffordable to astronomical, anyonelooking for custom- built cabinetscan get what they want without bust-ing the bank. Kitchen cabinets, liv-ing room bookcases, a bath vanity:whatever the use, cabinets shouldgive a lifetime of enjoyment.

Store cabinets, which usuallycome unassembled and not installed,may not always be the best value.They may not fit right or operateproperly.

Custom-built cabinets can matchthe right cabinets to your lifestyleand budget. Custom-built cabinetslet you add your personal touch. Thecustom cabinetry you select is sureto be a highlight in your home.Unfortunately, they may be high-lighted even more if constructedpoorly. Finding the right builder andinstaller is very important whenordering custom kitchen cabinets.

The key to cabinets that will pro-vide years of proper operation iscareful design. Professional design iscritical in the installation and use ofcabinets, whether it's a custom-designed bar or a set of kitchen cabi-nets. Both demand a trained design-er. Work with your cabinet specialistto make sure that you are creatingthe proper storage space for your

family’s needs.You also want to make sure that

your new cabinetry compliments thelook and feel that is already in yourhome. There are many organization-al features such as spice drawers,rollout shelves, wine racks, match-ing appliance panels, countertopappliance garage, that will increasethe efficiency and the aesthetics ofyour room. A variety of woodspecies and laminates are generallyused with custom cabinetry offeringa selection of finishes.

Cabinet-specialists, when build-ing a new kitchen or doing a com-plete remodel, offer a unique nicheby having the ability to “customize”an existing kitchen.

Installation is one of the mostcrucial stages. Each piece should becarefully installed. If you've evervisited a kitchen where a drawerwon't open because it was placedtoo close to an appliance handle,you can appreciate the importanceof careful installation.

Ask the cabinet specialist forreferrals from happy customers.Don’t be afraid to ask if you cancome see the room in their housethat the cabinet specialist remod-eled. For most people, custom cabi-netry is a large expense and youwant to make sure you have chosenthe professional that is going to bestsuit your needs and wants.

• Custom-built cabinets let youadd your personal touch.

• Cabinets should be about 40-50% of your kitchen remodel budg-

et.• Cabinet installation can take

anywhere from two days to twoweeks.

• Installation is one of the most crucial stages.

Try to think about these ideas• Do you have a preferred style or

color?• Are you preferential to wood,

steel, or another type of cabi-net?

• If choosing kitchen cabinets,how much time will you spend in thekitchen? This will often dictate theamount of space you'll want to allo-cate to your custom kitchen cabinets.

• Determine what features youwant.

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How to...


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Often the basic appliance unit is thesame for several brands, but the priceincreases as the added features increase.

This is true on major appliances… tosave money, don’t buy more features thanyou really need. Before you make a pur-chase, ask yourself if you really need theappliance. Some features on appliancessave time and energy, and some add con-venience but use more energy. Some are

bought because of the novelty they pro-vide.

Sometimes an appliance doesn’t reallysave time or energy because the set up andclean up are time consuming.

Where the appli-ance will be storedand used

Often storage creates a problem that out-weighs benefits. Be sure where you’ll useit wired adequately and that there’s an out-let available. Don’t use extension cordsunless it’s absolutely necessary. Cordsreduce efficiency and may be dangerous.

Once you’ve decided you really need theappliance and that you have room for it…consider the original price tag plus anyinstallation, operating and maintenancecosts. High operating costs may makeenergy-efficient models worth the initialhigher price.

For example: some new models of refrig-erators and freezers are 50 percent moreenergy efficient than models 10 years old.Check the yellow and black Energy GuideLevels on major appliances for energyinformation.

Check the cost ofcredit

If you can anticipate buying an appli-ance, try to save a little each month so youcan pay cash and avoid the cost of install-ment buying. You may even get a lowerprice if you can pay cash. Anticipatingyour purchase will also give you time to getthe information you need to buy wisely.

If you know you’ll be buying a majorappliance, start reading advertisements,consumer magazines and buying guidesavailable at your local library. Ask friends

and relatives about the models they haveand which features they use or don’t use.For large appliances, in particular, servicemay be important.

Warranty or guarantee

Take time to read the written guaran-tee… don’t just take the word of the sales-person. When you buy, remember to fillout and mail the warranty cards. Look forsafety seals and seals of approval. The ULseal (Underwriters’ Laboratory) is proba-bly the best known safety seal. Anotherseal, a blue star emblem, may be found ongas appliances. It means that the designand construction meet safety and perform-ance standards of the American GasAssociation Laboratories. Some maga-zines and other groups have seals ofapproval, too, but they vary in their worthto the consumer. Don’t assume that a sealassures quality.

For the most part, appliances on themarket do what they are designed to do.Your choice of brand and price willdepend on personal preference and indi-vidual need rather than actual differencesin function and quality. For more informa-tion on choosing appliances for yourhome, contact your local county extensionoffice.

Points to remember• Determine what features you want• Determine storage and wiring consider-ations• Investigate operating costs• Read the written guarantee

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How to...


For nearly a century, our mission at the Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota has been to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust. We are proud to support nearly 6,800 locally Accredited Businesses in our area who work with us to promote and foster business ethics through voluntary self-regulation, consumer and business education, and service excellence.

BBB RESOURCES ARE FREE FOR CONSUMERS

• Advertising Review - We promote truthful advertising and selling practices by monitoring advertising and seeking appropriate corrections.

• Business Reviews - Learn about a company’s performance in the marketplace before you do business with them.

• Consumer News and Fraud Alerts - We provide timely news and tips, and issue alerts on the latest scams targeting consumers and businesses in our area.

• Dispute Resolution - We’ll assist you in resolving a complaint against a company.

• Estimates – Visit our website and use Request a Quote to receive estimates from multiple BBB Accredited Businesses in one simple step.

Start With Trust – Start with the BBB!


make

The Better Business Bureau of Minnesota andNorth Dakota is a non-profit organization which wasfounded right here in the Twin Cities back in 1912.Our mission is to maintain a marketplace wherebuyers and sellers can trust each other.

In 2010, our BBB handled nearly 2.2 millioninquiries from people; visiting our website, check-ing out company reports and contacting us with gen-eral questions. Oh yes, we also received more than25,000 complaints. With nearly a century of experi-ence helping businesses and customers resolve dis-putes, the Better Business Bureau of Minnesota andNorth Dakota has unique insight into marketplacetrends, consumer behavior, and common mistakespeople make when looking for a service provider orshopping online.

Here are some helpful tips you can take to make awise purchase and avoid potential problems andmarketplace fraud:

• Check with the BBB at bbb.org or 800-646-6222before dealing with any company or charity you’renot familiar with.

• If you need to hire a contractor or repairman,check with BBB for a list of Accredited Businessesin your area. Always make sure the contractor isproperly licensed by visiting www.doli.state.mn.us.

• Don’t yield to high-pressure or emotional salestactics. Read all contracts thoroughly and seek out-side advice if you don’t understand it.

• Be sure to comparison shop and get multipleestimates. You can use BBB’s “Request a Quote” toget free estimates from local Accredited Businesseswith one email.

• If you’re hiring a service provider, ask for pro-fessional references.

• Don’t do business with someone who just showsup at your door. Many cities require door-to-doorsales solicitators to have permits. Check with yourcity/town.

• Pay with a credit card. Under federal law, youcan dispute the charge if you don’t receive your item

or service – a protection you don’t have when payingwith a debit card or by check.

• Never pay the entire cost of a repair job upfront.Try not to pay more than one third of the total esti-mate.

• When shopping online, shoppers should alwayslook in the address box for the “s” in https:// and inthe lower-right corner for the “lock” symbol beforepaying. Look for the BBB seal and other widely-rec-ognized “trust marks” on retailer websites. Alwaysremember to click on the seals to confirm that theyare valid.

• Beware of websites or advertisements offeringprices that seem too good to be true.

• Never give personal or financial information toan unknown caller or unsolicited email. When onthe phone, you can always ask for their name andnumber to call them back. Delete and do not respond

to unsolicited emails.• Keep documentation of your order. After com-

pleting an online order process, there may be a finalconfirmation page or you might receive confirma-tion by e-mail. The BBB recommends saving a copyof that as well as any e-mails for future referenceand as a record of the purchase.

• Trust your instincts; if something doesn’t feelright, don’t make a purchase.

By following these simple steps, you’ll be a wiserconsumer and limit your exposure to fraud andpotential headaches.

Visit our website to sign up for our monthly con-sumer newsletter, or for more information, such asour business reviews, as well as consumer news,fraud alerts and helpful educational tips – all avail-able free at bbb.org!

WISE PURCHASINGDECISIONS

How to...


evaluateADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity

Disorder, is one of the most common chronic behav-ioral disorders that appear in childhood. In thosewith ADHD, the prefrontal cortex of the brain hasless blood flow and more difficulty using energythan in people without ADHD. This area of the braininhibits impulses, initiates behavior, and controlsworking memory.

ADHD becomes apparent in some children duringpreschool and early school years. Essentially, it isdifficult for these children to control their behavioror pay attention in class. They can have trouble sit-ting still, act without thinking and fail to finishtasks.

If untreated, the disorder can have long-termeffects on a child’s ability to make friends or do wellat school or work. Between 4% and 12% of childrenare thought to have ADHD—that equals approxi-mately 2 million children in the U.S. In a classroomof 25 to 30 children, there will likely be at least onechild with ADHD.

Effective treatment depends on appropriate diag-nosis of ADHD. A doctor must conduct a comprehen-sive medical evaluation of the child to establish acorrect diagnosis of ADHD and to rule out otherpotential causes of the symptoms.

Research has shown that certain medications,along with therapies such as cognitive skills train-ing, behavior modifications and classroom accom-modations are the most beneficial treatments. Thereare also alternative therapies for ADHD such asbiofeedback, acupuncture, and dietary changes. As aparent, how do you evaluate the treatments to deter-mine which ones are right for your child?

First of all, ask your child’s doctor what he or sherecommends. Your doctor can provide helpfulinsight into the medical options, cognitive andbehavioral therapies that are working, and alterna-tive treatments.

When researching non-medical treatments, talkto the treatment provider. Ask if clinical trials havebeen conducted on the approach and if so, can yousee the research. Also, ask for references. A rep-utable treatment provider should be able to put youin touch with other families who have seen successwith the program.

If your child is school aged, talk to your child’s

teacher or school psychologist. They work withmany children who have ADHD and can offer valu-able insight and suggestions for treatment. Theycan sometimes arrange for classroom accommoda-tions such as seating at the front of the class or aquiet space for taking tests.

It’s also important that you do your own researchon different treatments. Check out information onthe Internet, talk to other parents, and read whatdoctors, teachers and parents are saying about treat-ment methods.

ADHD experts warn consumers about unprovenand controversial treatments. Typically they adviseconsumers to be wary of any company boastingabout miracle cures that work for everyone withADHD, claims based on the results of just one studyor studies that lack a control group, claims that the

product is harmless, “natural” remedy with few orno adverse effects and product ads that attack estab-lished, mainstream medical treatments.

Also, ADHD experts often list the following treat-ments as either unproven or disproved as effectivein treating ADHD: sensory integration training,anti-motion sickness medication, optometric visualtraining and treatment for lead toxicity.

Through thorough research and discussions withmedical and education experts, you can help yourchild develop an effective treatment plan that willhelp both you and your child deal with his or herADHD.

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How to...


Find out what’s holding your child back. Answers are just a phone call away!

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Leighton learned to succeed in school even with ADHD. It’s heartbreaking for any parent to watch their child struggle in school. For Leighton’s mom, Anne, it was downright scary. As a high school counselor, she knows all too well where it can lead. “From my experience, after years of frustration, many kids just disengage. They don’t care. And so many turn to self-destructive behaviors,” she worried. “I don’t want that to happen to my son.”

Leighton was getting average grades in school with the help and understanding of his teachers, but still having a hard time focusing. “He’d literally pull his hair out in frustration as he sat at the kitchen table feeling helpless and saying, ‘I hate school!’” Anne recalls.

When a colleague recommended LearningRx from personal experience, Anne was immediately intrigued. “She explained the scientific foundation, and it made so much sense. I could tutor him all day long, but unless he had the skills to learn, it wasn’t going to work.”

After six months of brain training at LearningRx, Leighton’s focus and confidence have soared. Plus, as schoolwork became easier for him his behavior issues faded. “Homework is no longer a battle either,” Anne reports. “He’ll sometimes even get started on bus ride home!”

What’s holding your child back?Get to the root cause of your child’s struggles—their ability to focus, think and learn. Unlike tutoring that only re-teaches subject matter, our proven program strengthens the key parts of the brain that students need to learn and read better. The results are amazing.

Train The Brain. Love to Learn.

“I’m just so happy now!”-Leighton, age 9, Maple Grove, MN

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Expert Concrete Installationand Foundation Repair.

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