inside PG. 2 ................. How To Choose A Home Heath Care Provider PG. 4 ....................................... How To Choose Vinyl Windows PG. 6 ....................................... How To Choose A Hearing Aide PG. 8 ............. How To Choose An Air Duct Cleaning Company PG. 10 ....................................... How To Choose A Veterinarian PG. 12 ............................................. How To Choose A Hospital PG. 14 ...... How To Choose A Funeral Home And Crematorium PG. 16 ............................................. How To Choose A Mattress PG. 18 ....................................... How To Choose A Memorialist PG. 20 ..................................... How To Choose A Credit Union PG. 22 ..................................... How To Choose A Stone Surface PG. 24 ............................... How To Choose A Financial Planner PG. 26 .............................. How To Choose A Fireplace or Insert PG. 28 ............................... How To Choose Summer Lawn Care July 2015 AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO how to how to how to guide guide guide lmtribune.com
Transcript
insidePG. 2 ................. How To Choose A Home Heath Care ProviderPG. 4 ....................................... How To Choose Vinyl WindowsPG. 6 ....................................... How To Choose A Hearing AidePG. 8 .............How To Choose An Air Duct Cleaning CompanyPG. 10 ....................................... How To Choose A VeterinarianPG. 12 ............................................. How To Choose A HospitalPG. 14 ......How To Choose A Funeral Home And CrematoriumPG. 16 .............................................How To Choose A MattressPG. 18 ....................................... How To Choose A MemorialistPG. 20 ..................................... How To Choose A Credit UnionPG. 22 ..................................... How To Choose A Stone SurfacePG. 24 ............................... How To Choose A Financial PlannerPG. 26 .............................. How To Choose A Fireplace or InsertPG. 28 ...............................How To Choose Summer Lawn Care
July 2015
AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO how tohow to how to how tohow to how tohow to how tohow to how tohow tohow to how tohow tohow to how tohow tohow to how tohow tohow to how tohow tohow to how tohow tohow to how tohow tohow to how tohow tohow to how tohow tohow to how tohow tohow to how tohow tohow to how tohow tohow to how tohow tohow to how tohow tohow to how tohow tohow to how tohow tohow to how tohow tohow to how tohow to how tohow to how tohow to guideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguideguide
H O W T O G U I D E S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 52
How to... Choose a Home Health Care Provider
Most seniors and their families will one day have to face an inevitable and diffi cult question as time goes by and health conditions become more of a problem: Is it possible to remain living independently, or will a move into some form of senior facility be necessary?
Moving into a nursing home is an op-tion that might most appeal to seniors with mobility problems. A senior who has diffi culty in the completion of ev-eryday tasks is not restricted to a nurs-ing home, however.
While the staff of such residences see to all of their residents’ needs, the at-tention can be clinical and impersonal, making the transition from the freedom of home even more diffi cult. The conve-nience of having everything done for the senior has the downside of becom-ing just another face in a crowd of pa-tients. Another disadvantage is the lack of personal time and privacy.
Assisted living facilities off er another option for those who fi nd the perfor-mance of everyday activities, including bathing and meal preparation, diffi cult because of mobility restrictions or other health issues.
This growing trend in senior living provides extended help in such tasks while still allowing a measure of inde-
pendence and personal space. Despite these ad-vantages, however, an on-site assisted living residence still lacks the
comforts and familiarity of home.
A better option now exists to help seniors whose diffi culties with daily household chores would otherwise make a move necessary. Use of an adult care service can give a senior the best of both worlds.
Adult care services provide people who come to a senior’s home and carry out such tasks as basic chores and laun-dry, as well as giving medical reminders and running errands like grocery shop-ping. The variety of services they pro-vide let elderly people remain in their own homes, enjoying the dignity and freedom of staying at home while re-ceiving the help they need in the basic necessities of life.
From meal preparation to assistance in dressing, adult care services fi nd no task too large or insignifi cant. The main reason for the popularity of in-home adult care, however, is that it allows a senior to wake up in a familiar bed and go through life in the place that has been home.
The clinical impersonality of nursing homes and other on-site living facilities is a diffi cult adjustment for many peo-ple to face. Aging has enough diffi cul-ties, with its host of health worries and physical diffi culties, without undergo-
An Option for Seniorsto Remain At Home
ing such a radical change in lifestyle.
The simple fact of being in familiar rooms surrounded by personal belong-ings can help ward off depression and off er a soothing sense of comfort for a senior trying to come to terms with health issues.
Anyone with a parent or other elderly loved one who could benefi t from such care should consider looking into local adult care services. Odds are that such a search will fi nd a thriving business whose success relies on providing full service that caters to the patron’s spe-cifi c needs.
Another benefi t, apart from the as-sistance in daily tasks, is that adult care services off er a feeling of friendship and companionship that might otherwise be unavailable. A senior with a person coming into the home to do chores has the comfort of knowing there will be regular contact with someone who can be relied on.
The fi rst step for the family members of a senior, of course, is to consult with the senior who would be living in what-ever conditions are decided upon.
The answer to the question of stay-ing in a home versus living in a facility is a diffi cult one. However, the options available should make it easier for any senior to enjoy the comforts of home as long as possible.
S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 5 H O W T O G U I D E 3
H O W T O G U I D E S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 54
How to...choose vinyl windows & renovate correctly
HOW-TO TIPSLook for a company that custom manufactures,
installs and guarantees their product. This way you get the best � tting window and you only have one number to call for any needs with the product.
Look for 3rd party certi� cations/endorsements on windows such as ENERGY STAR®, NARI®, AAMA, Good Housekeeping, etc. Their support means the window means the window has net or exceeded their high standards.
A quality company with a quality product will offer a lifetime guarantee on their window. Don’t settle for anything less.
A quality vinyl window will be made from non-recycled vinyl, have welded corners for strength
The glass used in the window should be coated, double-pane, insulated glass enhanced with an inert gas for additional insulated and noise reduction.
RENOVATE RIGHT: (NEW EPA guidelines for lead base paint on homes built before 1978) Federal law requires that individuals receive certain information before renovating six square feet or more of painted surfaces in a room for interior projects or more than twenty square feet of painted surfaces for exterior projects in hous-ing, child care facilities and schools built before 1978. Homeowners and tenants: renovators must give you the, Renovate Right Pamphlet, before starting work.
Child care facilities, including preschools & kindergarten classrooms, and the families of children under the age of six that attend those facilities: renovators must provide a copy of the Renovate Right Pamphlet to child-care facilities and general renovation information to families whose children attend those facilities.
Also, since April 2010, federal law has re-quired contractors that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities and schools, built before 1978 to be certified and follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination. Therefore be sure to ask to see your contractor’s certification.
WHY VINYL IS THE KING OF WINDOW MATERIALS
Vinyl has replaced wood as the number one material used in the windows of new homes and is already the leader in replacement of old or outdated windows.
All major window manufactures now offer a vi-nyl window because of its many advantages. It is warm to the touch; vinyl windows can be made in almost any shape. Unlike wood, however, vinyl windows require no painting or re-glazing. Most importantly, today’s vinyl windows are four times more energy-efficient than the state-of-the-art windows installed in new homes just a few years ago.
HOW CAN I COMPAREENERGY PERFORMANCE?
There are many grades of vinyl windows, but it is easy to separate the good from the average. Companies producing the highest-quality win-dows are part of the ENERGY STAR® program, operated by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency. These windows are commonly 40 percent more
energy=-efficient than building codes require and their performance is certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). Reading the NFRC label allows you to compare the per-formance between brands of windows because it rates the efficiency of the entire window unit.
ARE ALL VINYL WINDOWS THE SAME?
Advancements in vinyl extrusions allow the best manufacturers to offer structural rigidity without the need for any additional reinforce-ments. Windows made of lower quality vinyl are reinforced with steel or wood in a attempt to pro-vide strength. The wood is often too thin to pro-vide real rigidity or is exposed to the elements, absorbing moisture and rotting over time. While steel offers strength, it can reduce the energy efficiency of the window by conducting heat and cold. If you have any question about the architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) label on the product. A gold label means that the product passed strict tests for load strength and air or water infiltration.
THE GLASSThe energy-efficiency rating of the window is
referred to by its U-factor and 80 percent of the U-factor rating comes from the performance of the glass. The lower the Ufactor, the more energy-efficient the glass and the more comfort-able you will be in your home. Dual-pane glass filled with argon gas and coated with multiple microscopic layers of metals and non-metals (a Low-E coating) perform the best. Some brands of Low-E glass reflect infrared heat waves back to their source. This means that in winter, heat from your home reflects back inside, and during the summer, outside heat is reflected away from your home. Even basic Low-E glass lowers your
heating and cooling costs by 30 percent com-pared to plain dual-pane glass. The home featur-ing Milgard vinyl windows and SunCoat Low-E glass showed a 27% savings in summer cooling costs compared to the home with ordinary clear glass. The average summer afternoon demand for air conditioning in the SunCoat house was 30% lower due to reduced solar heat gain. SunCoat also produced significant savings on winter heat-ing bills.
WARRANTY REFLECTS THE CONFIDENCE OF THE SELLER
Warranties are only as good as the product covered and the company that stands behind them. Window warranties should not be prorated and should cover seal failure, parts, labor and installation for as long as you own your home. Replacement windows are a job you should only have to do once.
KNOW THE COMPANY YOU KEEPOver 20 percent of window companies in this
year’s Yellow Pages will be gone or will change their name in the next year’s book. The most important decision you will make might not be the windows you buy but the company from whom you buy them. The company should be able to provide you with proof of licensing, EPA lead cer-tification, proof liability insurance and be in busi-ness for over 10 years. (Companies in business more than 10 years are usually the ones that last.)
S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 5 H O W T O G U I D E 5
Replacement of single or double pane to U-Factor of .30 or lower per Avista qualifications. See Windows Doors & More for details and restrictions.
Still Available!ACT NOW!
NAT-39845-1
Milgard windows are designed to meet ENERGY STAR® qualifi cations—and then some. You can take energy performance a step further, by asking for our 3D® and 3D MAX® Energy Packages. These two energy packages address energy effi ciency through the three dimensions of a window: frame, product design and glazing unit. Be sure to ask us about the best package for your home and climate.
$400per sq.ft.
Save Energy. Save Money. Milgard Windows Can Help.
H O W T O G U I D E S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 56
How to... Choose the Right Hearing Aid
Five tips to guide you.
1. Don’t go it alone. Bring along a friend or relative. “One of the most impor-tant steps you can take is to bring a spouse, family member or friend to the examination,” says Juliette Sterkens, an audiologist in Oshkosh, Wis. “Two people hear and remember more.”2. Interview a provider.“The number one thing
to remember is that the value you get out of your hear-ing aid is based on the skills and abilities of the hearing health professional,” says Sergei Kochkin of the Better Hearing Institute. Audiologists and hearing instrument specialists are both licensed to sell hearing aids, but audiologists hold a master’s or doctoral degree in audi-ology. Get referrals from health care professionals. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and the American Academy of Audiology offer information on how to find a hearing professional.
3. Know before you go. “Most people have had trouble with their hearing for years,” says Barry Freeman, an au-diologist and chairman of the board of the National Coun-cil for Better Hearing. Yet they wait an average of five to seven years before buying a hearing aid. The worse the hearing loss, the harder it is for your brain to adjust, so it’s important to act as soon as you think you may have hear
ing loss. When new patients come to him, Freeman quiz-zes them: “What do you want the hearing aid to do for you? Do you just want to be able to hear the television? Or do you hope to hear the sermon in church?” Knowing your priorities will help the professional determine what style and technology are best for you.
4. Have your hearing tested. During your visit, you should be given a hearing test in a soundproof booth. It will tell the audiologist or hearing specialist what type of hearing loss you have so a hearing aid can be pro-grammed specifically for you. Not all devices will fit every person or every degree of hearing loss. And “these are custom-made devices,” says Linda Remensnyder, an au-diologist near Chicago. “It’s not prudent to buy online or from a big-box retail store.”
5. Try before you buy. Ask for a demonstration of the hearing aids recommended for you. An audiologist may be able to put a disposable plug on the tip of a behind-the-ear hearing aid and program the device to your hear-ing loss so you can experience how it works. “This is way too important and costly a decision to make in a hurry.”
OUT with the OLD... IN with the NEW!FREE SERVICES:• 30 Day Trial Period• Hearing Test• Cleaning & Adjustment of All
Hearing Aids• FREE Batteries for Life with
purchase• 0% Interest Financing
Available• We Bill Insurance
(where hearing aid bene ts are available)
• Local Labor and Industries Provider
• Federal Bene ts Provider• Bluetooth Capabilities
Modern Hearing Aids are true Miracles of TechnologyModern hearing aids offer a wide range of functions and variety. Your hearing care
professional will help you make the choice that is perfect for you.There are two basic types of hearing aids:
• Custom models (ITE or ITC and CIC models)• Behind-the-ear models (RIC and BTE models)
Area’s ONLY Board Certi ed
Hearing Instrument Specialist
Phonak Bolero Q
GuaranteedBest Service
and Lowest Prices
In The Quad-Cities
421033G1-14
Hearing Aid Serviceccccccccceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeedddddd SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSeeeeeeeeeeeeeerrrrrrrrrrvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvviiiiiiiiicccccccccHHHHHHHHHHHHeeeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaarrrrrriiiiiinnnnnnnnngggggggggggggggggggggggggg AAAAAAAAAAAAAiiiiiiiiddddddddddddddddddddd1850 Idaho St., Lewiston
H O W T O G U I D E S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 58
How to... choose a Air Duct Cleaning Company
EXPERIENCE-HOW MANY years has the company been in business? You don’t want a fly by night business touching your expensive HVAC equipment. Ask for their proof of licensing and bonding and liability insurance. Do they have contractor/public works licensing? Do they have local references? Ask neighbors, or co-workers about them.
QUALIFICATIONS-Is the company certified by the National Air Duct Cleaning Association (NADCA) which has strict standards relating to training, equipment, cleaning procedures and ethical behavior. Do they have experienced techni-cians that have earned the prestigious ASCS (Air Systems Cleaning Specialist)designation, as well as CVI (Certified Ventilation Inspector) VSMR (Ventilation System Mold Remediator) duct cleaning certification? Are they a member of the Better Business Bureau? If so what is their rating? What is their DunBradstreet rating?
PRICING-Has this company provided you a competitive price? Beware of the $99 whole house special sales gimmick. Check with other neighbors, or co-workers.
IS THIS A SIDE LINE service for them?Beware of low duct cleaning pricing if their real business is selling equipment & furnace parts? Make sure you have a bid from another heating dealer before letting your-self fall into this sales gimmick. Have a complete list of all major components of your HVAC system you want cleaned before the cleaning begins.
SAFETY-Job Safety should be a top pri-ority this means they employ the ‘best practices’ for safety at all job sites. Ask the company for their safety ratings? Do they use environmentally friendly, non-toxic, air purification products?
QUALITY CONTROL -Ask what are their QC policies? Customer survey’s on every residential jobsites? Visually inspection larger projects? To assure quality control, larger projects need completed reports for the facility or project manager.
In today’s
well-sealed homes,
when particles,
pollution, chemicals
and mold spores
get in, they have
trouble getting out.
Be sure to keep
your heating, and
ventilations
system clean and
well maintained so
your indoor air
isn’t worse than
the air outside.
Do your researchGet your money’s worth,
check references, how longhas the company been in business?
Ask for proof oflicensing/insurance!!
S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 5 H O W T O G U I D E 9
www.bfpowervac.com
A+
Local Family Owned and Operated Since “1971”
Toll Free 1.800.743.9564 208.746.1461 Lewiston
208.882.7575 Moscow
H O W T O G U I D E S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 510
How to... choose a Veterinarian
In today’s society, pets are generally considered to be
members of the family. As such, they should be provided with the excellent health care that any member of your family deserves.
Many people neglect to bring their pets to a local veterinarian due to cost concerns. These people tend to believe that it is sim-ply not financially wise or necessary to pro-vide their animals with regular health care. However, by ensur-ing that your pet has regular check-ups from an experienced animal professional, you can add years to your pet’s life and improve upon its happiness.
You should never wait until your pet is sick to provide it with the health care that it needs. Many animal diseases can be prevent-ed with regular check-ups, saving you time and money in the long run. Visits to the veterinarian will boost your pet’s health, allowing it to lead a happier, more vigorous life.
The process of searching for a veterinarian can seem intimidat-ing. However, so long as you
adhere to the following guide-lines, you can easily locate an animal health care professional that will provide your pet with the services that it needs in order to lead a long, healthy life.
When searching for a veterinar-ian, you should first ask for ref-erences from your friends and
family. The best way to receive an accurate impression of a vet’s quality of work is by speaking with his or her past clients.
A veterinarian’s references should assert that he or she is professional, timely, honest and compassionate. The Internet is also an excellent source of infor-mation regarding the quality of a specific animal health care pro-
fessional. Search for reviews from past clients, and check the business’s reputation with the Better Business Bureau.
After you have narrowed down your choices, feel free to visit the veterinarian’s office in order to receive a personal impression of the professional’s values. The
office should be scru-pulously clean, and all employees should be friendly and welcoming.
You should observe the interactions between the office’s staff and the animals that are pres-ent. If a large number of pets seem excessively stressed or anxious about their visit, this could be a warning sign that the vet is not as gentle or careful as he or she should be.
You can even chat with the other clients that
are present. Ask them about their past experiences with this par-ticular veterinarian. Most clients would be happy to share their stories or recommendations with you.
RVS
S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 5 H O W T O G U I D E 11
“Old fashioned service in a state of the art facility.”
RUSTEBAKKEVeterinary Service
David A. Rustebakke, DVMJessica R. Bell, DVM • Caleb Schmerge, DVM
Joshua Harper, DVM, CVSMT
A 6,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility offering a full service horse and small animal hospital
with boarding as well as a haul-in cattle facility.
� LIVESTOCK� EQUINE� SMALL ANIMAL
RVS
705 15th St. Clarkston • (509) 758-0955 • 24 HOUR EMERGENCY CARE
RUSTEBAKKE VETERINARY SERVICE OFFERS:• EQUINE medicine, surgery, reproductive services &
dentistry, and help with behavior and training problems.• SMALL ANIMAL medicine, surgery, dentistry,
reproductive services and full-service boarding.• BOVINE and SMALL RUMINANT medicine, surgery
and herd health.• LIVESTOCK supplies and vaccines.• DIGITAL X-RAY SERVICES• DIGITAL ULTRASOUND• IN-HOUSE CLINICAL LABORATORY• ONLINE – Many features including an animal pharmacy.• OUTDOOR equine horse facility
H O W T O G U I D E S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 512
How to... choose a hospitalSome of life’s most significant events oc-
cur during a stay at the hospital. Whether it is a trip to the emergency department, the birth of a child or grandchild, or a surgical procedure that helps you enjoy life without pain; when it comes to your health, it’s important that you make the right decision when choosing the best hospital to care for you. Safe quality patient care, highly skilled physicians and healthcare providers, state-of-the-art medical equipment and technol-ogy, a comprehensive range of medical specialty services, and an excellent patient experience are essential qualities to con-sider when choosing a hospital. It’s good to know that the right choice is right here in our region – St. Joseph Regional Medical Center.
Providing excellent and compassionate healthcare as a full-service hospital is a long-standing tradition at St. Joseph Re-gional Medical Center. We are the Regional Medical Center people rely on to provide safe, professional and compassionate healthcare. Through compassion, knowl-edge, technology, and a love for what we do, we live our Mission and provide an ex-cellent patient experience for all we serve.
Patient safety and quality care are priori-ties for the Medical Center. Recognition as a Distinguished Hospital for Patient Safety and earning numerous honors over the years demonstrates St. Joseph’s commit-ment and dedication to service excellence. St. Joseph is routinely recognized by national organizations, patients, and col-leagues for providing safe, quality patient care. We are accredited by The Joint Com-mission. This Gold Seal of accreditation and certification is nationally recognized as a symbol of quality in healthcare and can only be achieved by meeting or exceeding strict performance standards.
St. Joseph Regional Medical Center is the region’s only designated Blue Distinction Center for Hip and Knee Replacement and Spine Surgery. This nationally recognized honor is earned by hospitals achieving
quality standards and demonstrating bet-ter patient outcomes while also providing affordable care. Additionally, St. Joseph’s Cancer Services received accreditation with commendation by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer. This distinction came as a result of a successful demonstration validating that patients have access to the full scope of services required for diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and support.
The St. Joseph Breast Imaging Center of Excellence is a premier multi-diagnostic imaging center, offering: Advanced Imaging Technology, Digital Screening and Diagnos-tic Mammography, Dedicated Breast Ultra-sound, Stereotactic and Ultrasound Guided Biopsies. It is the region’s only Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the Ameri-can College of Radiology (ACR). Our staff is focused on breast imaging. Our radiologic technologists, who have their advanced certification in mammography, perform all exams and achieve excellence in each of the ACR’s breast imaging programs. The center is a mastery of diagnostic imaging techniques, expert clinical staff, and the use of advanced technologies.
St. Joseph is committed to providing ex-cellent care to our region through the highly skilled and certified providers on our health-care team, and a quality facility with the lat-est in medical technology and treatments. St. Joseph has over 120 board-certified physicians active in both primary care and specialty practice. The St. Joseph Medical Group is a multi-specialty group of physi-cians providing primary and specialty care services. Providers at the Medical Group are employed by St. Joseph Regional Medi-cal Center and work collaboratively for the benefit of their patients. We strive to have all members of our healthcare team be leaders in their field with formal training, advanced degrees, and certifications. The majority of our registered nurses have earned bach-elor degrees in nursing and are certified in many specialty areas.
St. Joseph Regional Medical Center pro-vides the region with the most comprehen-sive range of services, including 3D mam-mography, surgery, diagnostic imaging, cancer treatment, Breast Imaging Center of Excellence, inpatient and outpatient mental health, rehabilitation, Heart & Vascular Cen-ter, women’s health services, Family Begin-nings Birthing Center, pediatrics, family care, sleep study center, adult and pediatric neurology, pulmonology, urology, hospice and palliative care, gastroenterology and endoscopy services, neuro interventional radiology, surgery and emergency services. This complete service line sets St. Joseph apart in our region. The care you need is right here at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center.
Our patients are our number one prior-ity. Our goal is to provide our patients with excellent patient care in a compassionate and healing environment. At St. Joseph, you can access your medical informa-tion online with FollowMyHealth. By using this patient portal you will get 24/7 secure online access from any computer, smart-phone or tablet to the following: view test and lab results, view your patient summary and upcoming appointments, receive ap-pointment reminders, and more. We make the following promise to all patients: “We promise that you are the center of our work. Our healing ministry will be provided with honesty, compassion and respect. Our dedicated team will be with you throughout your St. Joseph experience.”
At St. Joseph Regional Medical Center quality patient care is our greatest respon-sibility, skilled physicians and staff our greatest asset, providing excellent patient experiences our greatest accomplishment, and the health of our community and region our greatest goal. St. Joseph continues its commitment to the people of our region and our community.
St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. Together In Health.
S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 5 H O W T O G U I D E 13
H O W T O G U I D E S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 514
How to... choose a Funeral Home & Crematory
In the past, most people chose a fu-neral home for the following reasons:
they had a relationship with the funeral home before, the perceived religious affiliation of a funeral home, the location of the funeral home or upon the recom-mendation of a friend.
Most local, independent funeral homes rely upon their reputation for success. They have been operated by the same family from generation to generation and have been successful because they have built a business based on trust. With vari-ous mergers and acquisitions occurring in our industry, it is important that you choose a family owned funeral home where the family cares about your needs.
Every funeral home should be capable of addressing each family’s religious needs and provide a service that is meaningful to each family. Some funeral homes are better than others in going the extra mile to provide a personalized tribute to a life that was lived.
Some people choose a funeral home based on their location, however the most convenient location may not be the best suited for your needs or a good value. You should make your decision based on whether their facilities are up to date, whether they offer a variety of options based upon your budget and whether they are willing to offer a per-sonalized tribute to the life of the person. There should be plenty of parking and the building should be handicapped accessible. You can often get a feel for a particular funeral home by accessing their website. The website should pro-vide a description of the funeral home as well information about the variety of ser-vices they offer. Many of your questions will be answered directly on the website
or you can contact the funeral home by email for more specific requests.
You should not choose a funeral home based on price alone. All funeral homes are mandated by law to give you a General Price List before you begin to talk about any type of arrangements you will make. Therefore you can select the services that are right for your family and your budget. A good funeral home will take into consideration your family and circumstances and offer recommenda-tions. Choosing a funeral home on price alone may shortchange you on the personalized care and service you need to receive.
The Funeral StaffWhile a funeral home can be truly beauti-ful, it is the willingness of the funeral staff to insure that the funeral of your loved one be meaningful to you. The funeral staff should be attentive and provide compassion and support since you will be with them for a few intense days. You should always get the feeling that they will take care of your loved one just as you took care of them in life.
You should also be able to relate to the funeral director who will handle the ar-rangements and be able to speak frankly about what you want. No request by you should go unfulfilled. You should also ask whether the funeral home offers concierge services, i.e. assisting with ordering flowers, arranging accommoda-tions for out of state relatives, reserving a restaurant or catering facility for a family reception, or helping with any other need that may arise.
Support ServicesWhile most funeral homes can provide any type of funeral service, the good funeral homes are concerned about what
happens after the funeral is over when the family member finds himself/herself all alone. The funeral home should be able to provide support information so that a grieving family member can begin the grieving process. In addition, the funeral home should be able to recom-mend specific support organizations where people can go to learn about coping with their loss whether it is with a private therapist who specializes in grief issues or with a support group.
PreplanningWhen someone dies there are over 97 decisions that need to be made about planning a funeral. Oftentimes, you need to address these important issues in a very short period of time. You can avoid many of these hasty decisions by pre-planning the funeral services.
Preplanning allows you to complete the vital statistic portion of a funeral; you can talk about the type of services; the people you might like to have involved; begin to write an obituary; and organize your legal and financial documents. So many things can be done ahead of time to make it easier for families at the time of need.
In conclusion, after you have met with a funeral director to ascertain what you think might be important to you, then you can determine whether that funeral home would be able to deliver on your requests.
A funeral home should be a center where you receive help and support to make sure that the funeral experience is soft, soothing and a tribute to the person that you just lost from the time of their death to your road to recovery. There is a difference in funeral homes. Make sure that you compare.
S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 5 H O W T O G U I D E 15
We off er a wide variety of Services and Facilities: 3 Chapels Mausoleum & Columbarium Reception Room Crematory Cemetery Traditional Funerals Graveside Services Cremation Graveside Services Traditional Funeral followed by Cremation Memorial Services Simple Burial Simple Cremation*
*Usually less than Spokane Cremation Societies
Mountain View Funeral Home & CrematoryLewis Clark Memorial Gardens
Merchant Funeral HomeRichardson-Brown Funeral Home
We are experienced with services for every belief and faith, and are proud to off er dignifi ed care to everyone in our community.Your trust means everything to us, and we thank you for that trust for over 100 years.
No one wants to plan a funeral.However, when you lose a loved one, you can trust us to provide professional care, and to respect the concerns and the budget of your family.
merchantmemorialgroup.com
45
38
27
GZ
_1
5
H O W T O G U I D E S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 516
How to... choose a mattress
How do you know if the bed you’re sleeping on is the right one?
If you wake up in the morning and have some low back pain and can stretch and get rid of it in 15 or 30 minutes, this typically means you’re on an inappropriate or non-supportive mattress. The right mattress, on the other hand, is one on which you feel no pressure, almost like you’re floating in air.If you’re looking for a new mattress, experts suggest testing it in the store and laying down on each mattress in the position in which you normally sleep, spending at least 10 to 15 minutes on the bed. The more you can replicate the way you’ll be sleeping on the mattress the better your chances of picking the right one.
Innerspring: Innerspring mattresses are still by far the most widely used. They support you with coil springs, and in most built today, each coil is individually enclosed. This helps the bed weather years of use and prevents the coils from popping out of the mattress. On top of the coils are a wide variety of materials added for comfort, from pillow to latex to memory foam. It’s all a matter of prefer-ence.
Pros: There are plenty of innerspring mattresses on the market from which to choose. They range in firmness, the materi-als used in the pillow top, and in price to fit nearly every preference and pocket book.Cons: There’s no direct relationship in most cases between price and comfort, but steering clear of the cheapest innerspring mattress is recommended as there aren’t enough springs and cushion to offer you proper support.
Memory Foam: Memory foam mat-tresses are growing in popularity. They are made of layers of different densi-ties of foam that respond to weight and temperature, and are known for comfort
because they contour to the specific shape of your body.
Pros: By molding to the shape of your body as your weight shifts through the night, memory foam reduces pressure points, and relieves pain. Memory foam also absorbs movement, so if you sleep with a partner, you’re not likely to be disturbed by their tossing and turning.Cons: One of the biggest complaints with memory foam mattresses is that because these mattresses are temperature sensi-tive, softening and molding with your body heat, they can make you feel extremely hot during the night. Memory foam mattresses have been known to emit a slight unpleas-ant chemical smell.Conditions: If you have a hard time getting comfortable, if you have chronic fatigue, or some type of muscle pain, then a memory foam mattress would work well for you.
Latex Mattresses: Latex mat-tresses are made from either natural or synthetic rubber, and are known for pro-viding a very firm, bouncy support that is uniform throughout the bed.
Pros: Latex is one of the best materials for bedding. It is firm and supportive, but also for providing comfort similar to memory foam. Unlike the memory foam mattresses, latex pushes back, ultimately providing more support.Cons: If you don’t like the feel of a firm mat-tress, latex is probably not the right choice for you.Conditions: Either a latex mattress or latex mattress topper is great for relieving back pain because they offer the best combina-tion of comfort and support.
Adjustable Beds: These beds are able to bend and elevate at varying angles. As a result, the mattress has to be flexible. Different types of mattresses can be used on an adjustable bed –
memory foam, latex, or air, for example. Spring mattresses are more difficult to use, however, because the springs don’t handle the bending well.
Pros: For people who have difficulty get-ting in and out of bed or who like to watch television in bed, adjustables can make life easier by moving you closer to where you need to be.Cons: Adjustable bed bases can be ex-pensive based on features included. How-ever, as they become more popular, prices continue to become more affordable. Conditions: If you suffer from sleep apnea, sleeping flat can make the condition worse by cutting off airways. People who experi-ence acid reflux can also benefit by sleep-ing in a bed that elevates their upper body. Adjustable beds also work well for people with hip or back pain who have a hard time moving from a lying position to sitting up or standing.
When to Part With Your Old MattressToday’s mattresses are made with different designs and materials that were not avail-able 10 years ago. If you are sleeping on a mattress that is older than 10 years, it’s probably time for a change. Over time our bodies change, so the mattress that was once a joy to sleep on may no longer feel comfortable.In addition, mattresses collect dust mites, fungus, and other germs that can exac-erbate allergies and impact your sleep patterns. Ultimately, the experts say that the best bed for you is the one that feels most comfort-able. And remember, there’s no mattress that’s going to save your body when you get only five hours of sleep. In order to feel your best, you need to get enough rest… no matter what type of mattress you’re sleeping on.
IS IT TIME FOR A NEW MATTRESS?
S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 5 H O W T O G U I D E 17
(208) 983-1040113 East Main Street, Grangeville, IDDD
WE MAKE THE WORLD’SBEST MATTRESS.™
H O W T O G U I D E S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 518
How to... choose a memorialistMany consumers have never pur-
chased a cemetery headstone or marker. It is in your best interest to first shop around to compare quality, craftsmanship and prices before mak-ing a final decision. Selecting a cem-etery headstone will be the most per-manent thing you will ever purchase in your lifetime, so there’s certainly no need to make a quick and hasty deci-sion.
When buying a cemetery head-stone, memorial or monument for a loved one, make sure you choose the right company. Be sure you feel comfortable with the person you’re dealing with. Purchasing a memorial is a major invest-ment, but more importantly, it is the final gift you will give to someone.
Customer service is a criti-cal part of the purchase pro-cess. Most people are in the midst of the grieving process during the time of purchase.
We want to help you through this very difficult time with as much ease and com-passion as possible. Dealing with the loss of a loved one is a very difficult process. Our goal is to help make this transition a time of remembrance.
Working with you to create the mon-ument you and your family deserve is what we strive for. Our mission is to listen to your vision and ideas, then make it a reality. It is what we love about our job.
We are your full service memorial company. We create either sandblast or lasered stones out of both marble or granite. We will design, create, de-liver and set your stone for you.
Granite HeadstonesGranite is the most popular material
for a memorial monument. Granite is beautiful and extremely durable, mak-ing it a perfect choice for a monument. Granite comes in a large variety of col-or and finishes.Bronze Grave Markers
A bronze cemetery marker can be created in any size to conform to your cemetery or memorial park regula-tions. Bronze plaques are usually mounted to a granite base. They are manufactured using a casting meth-od. Liquid, molten bronze is poured into a mold to create the final product.
PricingPrice, of course, is an important
factor in determining whether or not you will make a purchase. Don’t be afraid to shop around and compare quality and prices. Elements that af-fect pricing include – material used, the design, design elements (angels, emblems, etc.), granite color and ac-cessories such as photos, vases, etc.Newest Technology
QR Coding is the newest technol-ogy available for memorial stones. For $85 you can purchase a QR Code that is approx. 1.5” x 1.5” and can ap-
ply to any smooth flat surface. This QR Code links anyone who scans it with an iphone, ipad or camera ready smartphone to a webpage that will provide information such as an obitu-ary, family history, photo gallery, com-ments from friends and family or a video. You are provided the webpage template. You fill it in with any of the family history you would like to remain accessible for future generations. As amazing as it is to be able to scan this code right there in the cemetery, this is not the only way to share the his-tory of your loved one. You can supply the webpage address to anyone in the
world so they too can enjoy the won-derful memories you have created for your friends and family. The QR Code itself is 100% guaranteed; if any-thing happens to it, we will replace it for free. Once pur-chased, you own the website for life.
The website is very user friendly and has a way to
link to other QR Codes you may have purchased to create your own virtual family tree.
All of our products and services are local and we are happy to travel to our many surrounding areas.
Nothing is created until you approve the artwork and you say
it is JUST RIGHT!
Like us on Facebook.
S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 5 H O W T O G U I D E 19
In addition to the sandblast and laser memorial stones, we also create awards, address stones, pet memorials and more. Visit us with your
creative ideas and let us assist you in creating your timeless memory!
Sandblasted Newbury
Grey
Laser on Black Granite
SandblastedSalisbury Pink
Sandblasted Dakota Mahogany
H O W T O G U I D E S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 520
How to... choose a credit union
Not-for-profit. Credit unions are not-for-profit financial cooperatives. We exist to serve our members, not to make a profit. Unlike most other financial institutions, credit unions do not issue stock or pay dividends to outside stockholders. Instead, earnings are returned to our members in the form of lower loan rates, higher interest on deposits, and lower fees.
Taxation. Credit unions do pay taxes - payroll taxes, sales taxes, and property taxes. Congress exempts credit unions from federal income taxes. The exemption was established in 1937, affirmed by statute in 1951, and re-affirmed in 1998 in H.R. 1151, the Credit Union Membership Access Act, which states:
Credit unions, unlike many other participants in the financial services market, are exempt from Federal and most State taxes because credit unions are member-owned, democratically operated, not-for- profit organizations generally managed by volunteer boards of directors and because they have the specified mission of meeting the credit and savings needs of
consumers, especially persons of modest means.”
Ownership. Credit unions are economic democracy. Each credit union member has equal ownership and one vote -- regardless of how much money a member has on deposit. At a credit union, every customer is both a member and an owner.
Volunteer Boards. Each credit union is governed by a board of directors, elected by and from the credit union’s membership. Board members serve voluntarily.
Membership Eligibility. By current federal statute, credit unions cannot serve the general public. People qualify for a credit union membership through their employer, organizational affiliations like churches or social groups, or a community-chartered credit union.
Financial Education for Members. Credit unions assist members to become better- educated consumers of financial services. Additionally, CUNA is partnering with the National Endowment for Financial Education, a not-for-profit foundation, to expand financial education among high school
students. A national study shows that just ten hours of personal finance education can positively affect students’ spending and savings habits for a lifetime.
Social Purpose: People Helping People. Credit unions exist to help people, not make a profit. Our goal is to serve all of our members well, including those of modest means - every member counts. Our members are fiercely loyal for this reason. They know their credit union will be there for them in bad times, as well as good. The same people-first philosophy causes credit unions and our employees to get involved in community charitable activities and worthwhile causes - just ask us.
Find out more by visiting us at p1fcu.org.
Source: cuna.org
WHAT IS THE CREDIT UNION DIFFERENCE?
S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 5 H O W T O G U I D E 21
77 years later...(because we don’t have stockholders)
Still owned by our MEMBERS
14 Branches1 Mortgage & Business
Services Center
75,000 Members13 Counties
From humble beginnings in our first office to . . .
p1fcu.org
H O W T O G U I D E S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 522
Building or remodeling comes with many tough decisions, like what kind of layout, what building features, and of course all the details like colors and designs. By the time you get to choosing finishes, it’s under-standable to be overwhelmed, but don’t give up yet! You’re almost at the finish and this is where it gets fun, as you really see your vi-sion come to life.
When planning your finished look, the first thing you must decide is what do you want the focus to be. Do you want guests to notice your spectacular light fixtures? Detailed cabinetry? Fancy countertop or el-egant sink? Maybe it’s the flooring or back-splash you want to have the wow-factor. Whatever it is, start there. Bring a sample of your attention-grabbing piece with you to every other decision you make. If you have a cabinet and tile color chosen when you choose a countertop, it is very helpful to hold your samples up next to the slabs you like to see what colors are highlighted with the other finishes you have chosen. Your coun-tertop can be as subtle or as eye-catching as you want as there are many materials to choose from. Marble, soap- stone, and trav-ertine are all beautiful under- stated natural
options, although they may be a little high maintenance for some applications. Quartz countertops have the range to be delicate or showy and are the least maintenance out of any countertop option. Granite is generally a bit more of a statement piece due to more contrast and movement, although there are some neutral granite options, and durabil-ity is usually higher than any other mate-rial. There are other products as well, such as laminates and solid surface, that won’t offer the same durability as stone but may be good options if budget is getting tight to-wards the end of the project. Another big consideration is how much natural light your kitchen gets. A large amount of natural light means you should go with a darker surface and less natural light means go with a lighter surface.
Manmade materials such as laminate, quartz and solid surface are very consistent in composition, making it easy to choose from a sample and trusting the finished product will look like the sample you saw. Natural stone is made up of many different minerals and composites that give each color its character. Feldspar, quartz, mica, calcium, iron, labradorite, and garnet can all be found in different granite colors and all
give each stone its unique characteristics. Make sure you see your stone in person! A sample can be deceiving with natural stone because each batch is different in shading and pattern. Discuss any concerns with a professional fabricator. Will there be any seams? Are there any fissures or features that are unavoidable to cut around? These questions are appropriate and appreciated by fabricators who take pride in their work, and they will certainly help you in making your final decision.
This year we are pleased to let you know two new improvements we’ve made to help you enhance your stone surface experi-ence. First is our new Fusion cutting ma-chine. It uses a CNC saw for straight cuts then switches to a waterjet for tight angles or radii. This new piece of equipment is three times faster in cutting your project’s pattern from the slab than our former method, allow-ing us to complete more jobs, faster for our customers at the highest degree of precision
The second new improvement is our Path-finder slab inventory system. The Pathfinder has precise, fully calibrated, high resolution images of our entire slab inventory and al-lows customers to select slabs they’d like to consider then allows us to show them their countertops in 3D before any stone process-ing has been done.You can watch the Fusion cutting machine in action and soon, view our entire inventory in the Pathfinder slab inventory viewing system on our all new website at:
www.graniteconceptsnw.com
How to... choose a stone surface
4020 Hatwai Rd., Lewiston, ID 83501Phone: (208) 746-8196
H O W T O G U I D E S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 524
How to... choose a financial advisorFinding the right financial advisor
for your situation is essential for your financial health. Think of it this way: Choosing a financial advisor who’s right for your specific financial situ-ation is similar to choosing the right nutrition program for your specific body type.
THINGS TO KEEP IN MINDSince not every diet program is suited
for your specific health and wellness needs, not every financial advisor is suited for your financial wellness needs. You want to be able to rely on your finan-cial advisor’s advice when it comes to trimming your expenditures and what to do to save for retirement the same way you rely on your doctor for keeping your body trim and fit.
Be sure to do your homework before starting a relationship with a financial advisor.
Before making a choice, perform a background check on the financial advi-sors on your list and review their creden-tials. Your financial advisor must have the necessary training from an accred-ited institution and the prescribed certifi-cation for your state in order to be a true financial advisor.
Ask yourself the following questions:•How many years of experience does
the financial advisor have?•Have any complaints been filed
against the financial advisor?•What awards, if any, has the financial
advisor received?•Can the financial advisor provide
concrete proof of a satisfied clien-tele?
Answers to these questions are key when searching for a financial advisor who will meet your specific needs.
AREAS OF EXPERTISEThere’s a complete buffet of financial
products that can contribute to your financial well-being. Everything from bonds to mutual funds and commodities to stocks are common investing tools. However, depending upon your appetite for risk, some investment vehicles are better for your portfolio than others. You want to find a financial advisor who’s an expert in customizing a financial plan for your benefit, not for your detriment.
Consider the specific segment of the market in which you want to invest your money. Look for a financial advi-sor specializing in that particular invest-ment type. For example, you might want to invest in the commodities market. If your potential financial advisor has little experience in the commodities market, consider a different choice on your can-didate list.
RATE OF SUCCESSTake a look at the rate of success
each potential candidate has. Has the rate of return of his recommendations outpaced the average market rate of re-turn over the last year, five years, or ten years? One indicator of a solid rate of re-turn is how well a financial advisor con-ducts research to strengthen his clients’ portfolios.
Here’s where experience plays an im-portant role. This is especially important in tough economic times. How well has your financial advisor-candidate weath-ered past economic recessions for his clients? Do his clients continue to thrive in a bleak financial environment? On the other hand, have his clients experienced multiple hits to their portfolios?
That’s why an advisor’s success is well worth your consideration.
FEES OR COMMISSIONS?Ask your financial advisor about her
compensation. Is she fee-based or com-mission-based? That will make a differ-ence in your final selection. After all it’s your money you’re investing, not your financial advisor’s money.
A commission-based advisor is more apt to suggest financial products that favor her compensation. Such a situ-ation could needlessly increase your exposure to market risk. Only go with a commission-based advisor if she has a proven track record of success and has your best interest in mind.
If you feel the need to guarantee that your best interest will be served, go with a fee-based advisor. A fee-based advi-sor is compensated only for the time spent on servicing your portfolio.
INTERVIEWFinally, make arrangements to meet
the top candidates on your financial ad-visor list. Get a feel for how the financial advisor will treat you as his or her client. Will he act condescending toward you and your ideas? Will she have the heart of a teacher when addressing your con-cerns? A good way to do that is to ask direct questions regarding experience, services and financial products offered, and the fee schedule. How your financial advisor-candidate answers your ques-tions will give you a solid idea of which one is right for you.
S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 5 H O W T O G U I D E 25
Experiencehas a local address.Be confident that your finances are going in the right direction. You don’t have to go far. Because right here in the Lewis-Clark Valley, you’ll find a Morgan Stanley office staffed with capable, experienced Financial Advisors.
Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors can help you sort through the complexity of wealth management and investing. Call us today to set up an appointment. And find the experience you need. Right where you need it.
518 Diagonal Street Clarkston, WA 99403(509) 295-5175
www.morganstanleyfa.com/clearwatergroup
Complex address: 500 108th Ave NE, Suite 1900, Bellevue, WA 98004 (800) 328-2802
45
38
25
GZ
_1
5
H O W T O G U I D E S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 526
How to... choose a fireplace or insertFire. We sit around fires and have been doing so...forever.If you have a room with a fireplace, then that fireplace is probably the focal point of the room. If it isn’t, it should be. Take a look at your fireplace. Does it “fit” the room? Have you updated or remodeled the room or decor but did not know what to do about the fireplace? Does it look old and outdated? Ugly? Dark and moody? Would a future home buyer like it? Do YOU like it?Home buyers will focus on your fireplace. Your fireplace could affect whether they make an offer on your home. Or not make an offer. Or of-fer less money. You might want to update your fireplace.A great fireplace ...• adds beauty, drama and el-
egance to any home.
• brightens a room and adds value to your home.
• actually heats, instead of simply being a little flickering flame
• is an instant focal point and brings life to your space
• helps define a home’s style• a great-looking fireplace can
“make” a great-looking room.Contemporary-styled gas fireplaces and fireplace inserts don’t use the traditional log look, and instead offer a bed of rocks or glass and re-flective surrounds for a thoroughly updated look.Adding a home fireplace is easier than you think, and now is a great time to update or install a fireplace in your home in time for the winter monthsAdding a fireplace is not a do-it-yourself prospect, so come visit Welenco Stove Store and talk to
us about your fireplace needs. We have a genuine enthusiasm for our products and our work, and can offer ideas that you may not have considered. Come find out why our fireplaces are better than the “basic builder box”!
S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 5 H O W T O G U I D E 27
Warm up with Welenco ~ Your hometown Hearth & Grill Store
533 Thain Road, Lewiston, ID208-743-5525
4 5 3 3 9 8 G Z - 1 5
For the fi nest fi replace products look to RegencyWhy work with Welenco Stove Store?•Welenco Stove Store has been carefully selected and
certifi ed after being thoroughly trained on all aspects of the full line of Regency products. We can advise you on appropriate product selection, performance details and local building code requirements
•A Regency fi replace will cut your home heating costs by zone heating your living areas effi ciently
•Welenco can install a fi replace almost anywhere - even if you do not have an existing chimney
•With over 50 years combined experience in the hearth business, we have the knowledge and skills to ensure the best job possible for you
•Already have a drafty fi replace? Upgrade with a Regency fi replace insert - Welenco Stove Store will show you how
YOUR COMPLETE HEATING SOLUTION! www.welencostovestore.com
H O W T O G U I D E S U N D A Y, J U L Y 2 6 , 2 0 1 528
(208) 743-2152131 Snake River AvenueLewiston Idaho 83501
The Premier management team serving the quad cities and surrounding areas since 1947. Specializing in ornamental insect control, lawn care, irrigation systems, weed control, bat and rodent control, structural inspections plus any other pest control or lawn care problems you might need. Serving both residential and commercial accounts.
• Ants • Spiders • Red spider Mites • Lawn Care • Tree Injection• Earwigs • Aphids • Driveway Weed Control • Aeration & Power Rake • We Do it ALL!
453714GZ-15
How to... care for your summer lawnSummer is a maintenance season for lawns.If spring lawn care is about getting your lawn healthy and green, summer lawn care is about KEEPING it healthy while temperatures soar and rainfall becomes a fleeting memory. It’s also about maintaining a[ lawn that can withstand all the barbecues, games, parties, and running feet that summer has to offer. Here are some tips for keeping your lawn in shape over those long, hot days of summer.
About Summer LawnsAfter the spring growing season, summer brings quite a bit of stress to lawn grasses. Not only are the heat and drought damaging, but we aren’t as forgiving in the summer as we are in the winter. We want our lawns lush and green for outdoor activities, and we try to fight nature by continuing to fertilize, water, and coax new growth out of our lawns no matter what the weather. However, by understanding and respecting the seasonal changes of turf grasses, you can take steps to care gently for your lawn as the mercury rises.
• Cool-season grasses (such as fescue, bluegrass, and rye) grow best when temperatures are in the 60s F.
• Warm-season grasses (including Zoysia, St. Augus-tine, Centipede, and Bermuda) like temperatures in the 70s.
Once temperatures get into the 80s and above, lawns will begin to struggle a little, with cool-season grasses having the hardest time. Growth will slow, color may fade, and lawns will show signs of wear and tear as they are less able to recover from stress and traffic. Some cool-season lawns will even go dormant in the summer, looking brown and brittle until early fall.If you are unable to water regularly, allow your lawn to go dormant.
Water Wisely• Lawns need at least one inch of water per week,
and more when the heat is severe. Use a rain gauge or straight-sided can to keep track of the amount of water received from rainfall and irrigation.
• Water deeply and less frequently to encourage drought-tolerant roots.
• Water early in the day to reduce evaporation and fungal growth.
• Either water your lawn regularly and deeply, or don’t
water at all. Don’t let your lawn go brown and dor-mant, then try to “water it back to life.” If your lawn goes dormant in summer, it should stay that way until fall- don’t worry, it should recover once the weather changes.
Small tuna cans make a good temporary water gauge.
Mowing Tips• Raise your mower blade in the summer. Taller grass
is more drought-tolerant, grows deeper roots, and helps shade the earth to prevent weed seeds from germinating. Cool-season grasses should be mowed at 3”- 4” during the summer, or as high as your blade will go, while warm-season grasses should be mowed at 2”- 3”.
• Mow regularly, to prevent cutting more than 1/3 of the grass blade at a time. This keeps your grass healthier and prevents the clippings from smothering the grass.
• Keep mower blades sharp. Make sure your mower is cutting your grass, not tearing it, to minimize stress during hot temperatures.
