how to choose bradford

2 • HOW TO CHOOSE - The Bradford Era | September 25, 2015

Preliminaries: *Having an existing relationship with an auto body repair shop will save time and hassle when your car needs immediate repair. * Start shopping for an auto body repair shop before you need one so that you can make a better decision when you are not in a panic and rushed. * Less than 40% of new auto body repair customers are walk-ins. most people are referred by friends, relatives, or co-workers. Even in the tech-savvy era, old-fashioned, word of the mouth recommendations are still very valuable.

At The Shop: *Always visit the auto body repair shop before deciding who will repair your vehicle. Ask how long the shop has been in business.

*After you’ve chosen an auto body repair shop, try to establish a good working relationship with them. *Ask if the shop has handled your vehicle make and model perviously. *Look for a neat, well-organized facility with modern equipment. *

*Professionally run establishments will have a courteous, helpful staff willing to answer all of your questions. *All policies, guarantees, and methods of payment should be posted or explained to your satisfaction.

How To Choose The Right Auto Body Repair Shop

As a vehicle owner, your chances of needing the services of a collision auto body repair and refinishing facility are greater than �you think. Whether it’s from storm damage, rust and corrosion, acid rain and harsh sunlight, or an automobile accident outright, the risks are real. No one likes to think about needing an auto repair shop, but selecting a good one is like having health insurance: you hope you never need it, but you have it “just in case”.

Many people are misinformed �that if they are in an accident, that their insurance company will take care of the damage for them, or make a referral to an auto body repair shop. However, this is not true. It is the consumers responsibility to choose who will do the repair work to their own vehicle, which, shouldn’t be taken lightly. ��It’s wise to know how to select a auto body repair shop.�

September 25, 2015 | The Bradford Era - HOW TO CHOOSE • 3

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Buying your first car, moving to a new state, losing or changing your job or starting a small business – just a few of the life changes that should trigger a

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Looking for a reliable furniture store with high-quality pieces can be time consuming, but it’s worth it when you can fi nd a store with excellent service and the kind of furniture that will look great in your home for many years.

So how do you fi nd the best furniture store in your area?The fi rst thing you need to do is have a plan of action. Know

exactly what kind of furniture you need. Are you in need of a formal dining table? Are you looking to

upgrade your child’s bedroom furniture? Perhaps you are look-ing for a simple hutch to add to your living room.

Look around the house and get a feel for your sense of style. Look at the pieces you already have and decide what would go well with them. If you have a certain style in mind, it will be easier to fi nd a store that you like.

When you know what you are looking for, begin to search for a store that sells that type of furniture. Many stores cater to a certain price point and others carry specifi c styles furni-ture.

For example, if you are looking for a complete cherry wood dining room set — table, chairs, buffet and hutch — you will want to fi nd a store that sells sets in the type of fi nish you desire. You do not want to go to a store that only sells pieces separately.

Conversely, if you are looking for a night-stand, you want to be sure that the store you choose sells pieces rather than only sets.

Style is very important in selecting the

furniture store you will do business with. If your tastes lean more towards the traditional, you will not want to visit a store that sells ultra-modern, sleek furniture.

If you are looking for something a bit more contemporary, you do not want to shop at a story concentrating in country-style furniture.

When thinking of décor and style, you should obtain new items that suit the overall theme of your home. Look at colors, materials and texture when deciding on new pieces. Furniture that fi ts into one general theme will give a sense of cohesive-ness to your entire home.

Look for a furniture store that has the colors, textures and materials that you currently have in your home.

When you enter a furniture store, take in the big picture. Do you see many of the same colors that you have throughout your home? Do you see accessories in materials and textures that will provide beautiful accent to the pieces you already own?

By making a quick assessment of the store, you will know if it is a good match before you even walk through the showroom.

If you make it beyond the front doors, look at the prices of different pieces. If you have a budget in mind, look to see that the furniture offered by the store fi ts into your price point. If not, visit the next store on your list.

If you are looking for quality pieces, make sure the prices are suited towards how well the furniture is made. Furniture that is made by hand, for example, will be more costly than pieces mass produced in a factory.

Knowing what you are looking for in furniture store will go a long way into selecting the one that is right for your wants and needs.

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Pharmacies have changed a lot over the years. In the past, pharmacies were usually small neighborhood stores where the employees knew your name. The selection might not have been the best, but the customer service they provided was always excellent.

These days, pharmacies have grown. In many cases, they have turned into large, corporate stores. With their expansion in size has also come an expansion in the type of products they carry. No longer selling only medicine or medical related supplies, these pharmacies have turned into small retailers.

Along with pharmaceutical goods, many of these stores also carry a variety of groceries, in the hope of creating for its customers a one-stop place to shop.

Unfortunately, not every pharmacy has kept its focus on its customers. As pharmacies have changed, it has become more important than ever to sift out the good pharmacies from the bad. When deciding on which pharmacy you want servicing your prescription needs, there are several important factors to consider.

HOW TO CHOOSE A

One of the factors to consider is the pharmacy’s hours of operation. Stores that are only open during regular business hours will not be very helpful if you or your loved one gets sick after hours.

Try finding a pharmacy with business hours that are convenient for you. If you look hard enough, you are sure to find a pharmacy in your city that is open 24 hours.

Unfortunately, it is the larger corporate chain stores that are likely to be the ones open late. Smaller, locally owned pharmacies may have more limited hours, but tend to provide more personalized service than the larger stores.

Regardless of the pharmacy you choose, it is always a good idea to know where a 24-hour pharmacy is located in case of a late-night emergency.

AVAILABILITY

One last thing to consider when picking a pharmacy is the customer service they offer. As previously mentioned, smaller neighborhood pharmacies are quickly becoming replaced by larger corporate owned pharmacies, so it is important to find a store where you feel at home.

Do the pharmacists and staff remember your name? Does the pharmacist take the time to answer any questions you might have about your medication? Finding a pharmacy staff that is knowledgeable, helpful and friendly can go a long way.

While it may not be easy to find a pharmacy that meets each of these criteria, with a little research you should be able to find one that fits your needs.

LOCATION

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a pharmacy is whether they accept your prescription drug plan, since not every pharmacy accepts every kind of insurance.

If you have insurance that covers prescription drug costs, it is a good idea to call ahead to make sure they take the type of insurance you carry. Even if the pharmacy has convenient hours and is conveniently located, these advantages mean nothing if you are going to have to pay out of pocket.

For people whose insurance offers little to no prescription coverage, it is smart to contact the stores in your area and ask about their policies regarding prescription discounts.

Many pharmacies are now offering lower prices on various generic versions of medications, some of which may be medications that you take. By using a pharmacy that offers prescription drug discounts, you can save a good deal of money.

Older patients who are on Medicare should be also careful when deciding on a pharmacy. Check with potential pharmacies in your area to see if they accept your specific Medicare Part D plan.

As there are many options available on Medicare Part D plans, it is vital to make sure the pharmacy you select is willing to work with your Medicare plan in order to cover the medications you need.

DRUG COVERAGE

A pharmacy’s location is just as important as its hours of operation. Using a pharmacy that is close to your house is not only convenient, but makes purchasing your pharmaceutical needs much easier.

You may even be able to find a store that is on your way home from work or school, allowing you to quickly and easily stop and pick up your medication on your way home.

It is also useful to have a pharmacy that is only a few minutes away, in case someone in your family becomes sick in the middle of the night.

SERVICE


In the United States, over 38 million people have some form of hearing loss.

For those people, getting help can be a confusing tangle of opinions, options and disappointments before arriving at a way to improve their hearing.

It is no wonder that the average person with a hearing loss waits seven years to seek help after first noticing a problem. The path really should be a simple one.

The first step should be a visit with your primary care doctor for a discussion about your hearing. Amazingly, only about 16 percent of physicians routinely check for a hearing loss when doing a physical.

To take full advantage of the primary care doctor’s limited time, the patient should have a goal in mind when seeing the doctor. The doctor will determine if there is a physical reason for the hearing loss such as an infection.

The primary care physician will also determine what the correct course of action for the patient is. The doctor will typically either recommend the patient see an ear, nose and throat doctor or an audiologist.

While the primary care physician will usually recommend an audiologist or several audiologists, the decision of who to see is ultimately up to the patient. When making this decision it is important to consider the insurance that the audiologist accepts.

Secondly, it is important to consider the specialization of the audiologist. Some audiologists deal specifically with older people, others deal with young people, and some specialize in a special skill such as cochlear implants.

Finding the right audiologist can be greatly aided by consulting friends and family who have also seen an audiologist.

The next step is to narrow the list down to two of three choices. Then call their offices and conduct a preliminary interview. They should be able to tell you

if they are accepting new patients, how long you will have to wait until you can see the audiologists, and about specializations of that audiologist.

Then the last consideration is the convenience of the location to you. It is also important that you consider whether they have the proper license. They should be willing to provide you with references to patients whom they have treated successfully.

Making sure that you pick one with the right specialization will greatly add to the success of your visit. It is never too early to have a child’s ears checked by an audiologist. Children who have a hard time hearing have a hard time in school.

Likewise, you are never too old to have your ears checked. Almost one out of three people over the age of 65 have a hearing loss. Most can be helped with the use of hearing aids.

At the appointment, make sure that you know what your goal is.

The goals basically fall into three categories:

The first is a complete hearing evaluation. The second goal is a fitting for a hearing aid or to have a hearing aid repaired. The third goal is to discuss with the audiologist how to prevent hearing loss.

It usually is impossible to resolve a hearing loss issue with one appointment. There will be appointments for tests, consultation and hearing aid fittings if they are necessary, as well as follow ups.

Just like your relationship with your primary care physician, your relationship with your audiologist should be ongoing. Therefore, make sure that you are comfortable with the person. If not, keep looking for it is important that you can form a bond with this provider.

By following these steps, you should be able to locate an audiologist that you will be pleased with. Make sure and visit your primary care physician first. Then make sure and follow through with checking the audiologist references.

Last, make sure it is a relationship that can continue to bloom. Hearing problems do not go away.

How to Choose theBest Audiologist


Fruits and vegetables not only taste good and add variety to meals but are also the foundation of a healthy diet.

You might think all produce departments are very much alike. However, the best ones are adept at purchasing, storing and presenting produce in ways designed to extend produceʼs shelf life while preserving its nutrient content.

You donʼt have to be an executive chef in a fine dining restaurant to select the best produce. There are a few rules of thumb that will help you put the best food on your familyʼs dinner table.

FRESHNESSFreshness is the most important quality when you’re

shopping for produce. Our normal supply of fruits and vegetables is grown across the nation and in neighboring countries. While it’s possible to buy nearly any fruit or vegetable at any time of year, this availability comes at a cost.

Produce grown in distant locations is often refrigerated for extended periods of time. When a piece of fruit finally reaches your grocer’s produce department, it seldom retains its optimum flavor and texture.

Buy fruits and vegetables when they’re normally in season in your area if you want the highest quality. For example, this means buying the finest apples in the fall and the most succulent tomatoes in the summer. They’ve likely been harvested just before they are fully ripe and arrive at the grocer’s in the shortest amount of time.

By comparison, buying apples in the spring means eating fruit grown far away, held in storage for almost a year and equipped with all the juiciness of a cupful of sawdust. Unless you’re willing to pay an exorbitant amount of cash for greenhouse-grown tomatoes in the winter, you’ll have to settle for those pinkish hard plastic balls in the produce aisle.

It’s not always easy choosing fruits and vegetables that are at peak ripeness. This is why you need to frequent produce departments staffed with people who can give you expert advice. The produce manager will be happy to give you recommendations on the types of apples, greens, tomatoes, pineapples and so forth that will work best in your recipes.

VARIETYSeek out the produce department with the widest selection

you can find. The many different varieties of fruits and vegetables present an opportunity to experiment when cooking.

Not all apples make great pies. Some pumpkins are excellent for pies while others are best carved into jack-o-lanterns. One red pepper variety is wonderful in a sautéed dish while another is best sliced and eaten raw.

Many fruits look much alike but there are significant

differences in flavor and juiciness. These differences arise from differences in grown regions and variety. Have fun and broaden your horizons at the same time by choosing a couple of different varieties and conducting a taste test at home.

You’ll soon find which are your favorites and which ones are non-starters. Make a point of visiting a well-stocked produce aisle and trying the new varieties you find as often as possible.

LOCALLY GROWN FOODSThe very freshest produce is grown close to where you

live. Many shoppers opt for locally grown fruits and vegetables not only for their superior quality but also because buying local is better for the environment.

Locally grown produce can be picked at the peak of ripeness without worrying about prolonged periods of refrigeration. At the same time, shipping it from the orchard or field doesn’t require as much fuel for transportation. The result is you get better produce and at the same time help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

ORGANICOrganic produce is popular with many consumers these

days. Grown without chemical pesticides and fertilizers harmful to humans and other organisms, organic foods are regarded as being a good choice for consumers seeking to eat healthier and more natural foods.

Organically grown fruits and vegetables sometimes taste better than their chemically assisted counterparts because they’re grown in smaller quantities, receiving more intense attention from the grower.

Organic produce’s increasing popularity has helped bring its price down. Today, there usually isn’t a significant price difference between organic and organic products. Healthier eating fits most budgets.

Choosing A Produce Department


A pellet stove works on the same principle as a traditional wood stove. However, these stoves can burn other fuels besides wood, such as sawdust, waste paper, wood chips, bark and other organic materials compacted into a pellet. Some can also burn corn and walnut shells.

Pellet stoves have been proven by the EPA to be the cleanest solid-fuel burning appliances. They are often suitable for apartments and condominiums when wood stoves are not. They are also exempt from EPA emissions standards.

Pellet burning stoves come in two types: freestanding and fireplace inserts. They all have a feeder attachment and a hopper to feed the pellets into the stove. Newer pellet stoves have thermostats and sensors to regulate the speed the pellets are being fed into the stove, controlling the heat output and regulating the temperature.

Pellet stove manufacturers provide very specific schedules for product maintenance which helps the stove deliver more efficient home heating. Due to the increasing popularity of pellet stoves as an alternative source of heat, both stoves and the pellets are easy to find. Manufacturers recommend using high-quality pellets to keep your stove burning cleaner and needing fewer repairs.

Like the wood stove, a pellet stove should be chosen based on the size of the home or room it is expected to heat, its efficiency and its appearance. Whether you choose a more traditional wood stove or select a pellet stove, either will prove to be a more efficient and cost-effective heat source than electricity, natural gas, propane or heating oil.

Wood and pellet stoves involved a major outlay of cash. Both should be installed by a professional. This will also cost money. However, you’ll soon recover these costs from the money you save on utility bills, and you’ll keep on saving in the years to come.

Wood and pellet stoves are effective and efficient alternatives to gas, oil or electricity for heat during cold weather. Each type of stove has benefits to offer as an alternative heat source, but selecting the right one for your home requires some careful consideration.

Wood stoves are fabricated from either cast iron or welded steel. Both are made to burn wood and then distribute the heat through your home using a system of pipes.

The choice of metal has no influence on the stove’s operation or performance. People choose either a steel stove or a cast iron one based on price, where the stove will be located and how it fits into a home’s décor.

Wood stoves work due to basic combustion. The wood burns and produces heat, ashes and smoke. Heat is good and ashes we clear away periodically and discard. Smoke is a product of incomplete combustion.

A stove outfitted with a catalytic converter makes use of the leftover combustibles, reducing emissions and boosting the efficiency of the stove. A properly designed stove without a catalytic converter can still be efficient enough to burn wood completely, leaving little ash and smoke behind. There are pros and cons to both types that affect the operation of the stove.

The most efficient wood stoves have a proficiency rating between 60 and 80 percent. Unfortunately, these ratings are not standardized and not often understood by the average person. There’s a lot of room for doubt. Buy your stove from a reputable dealer who will give you straight answers to your questions and who will make sure you understand what you’re purchasing.

You can do some preliminary work by calculating the cubic footage of the area you’re going to be heating with the stove. This determines the right size of stove to buy. Big rooms need bigger stoves, little rooms need smaller ones. That was easy.

You’ll also want to know the size of the logs you’re going to be burning. Logs 16 inches in length are recommended because they’re easy to stack and handle. The log capacity of your stove should be about three inches longer, or 19 inches.

Cheap wood stoves aren’t really a bargain in the long run. Their internal parts may wear out quickly and aren’t replaceable. Better stoves will be made of better materials and are covered by a warranty. Understand the terms of your stove’s warranty before you complete your purchase.

WOOD STOVES PELLET STOVES


When you choose a family physician you trust they have the proper credentials, training and experience to give quality medical advice. There is a regimented process one must follow to become a physician.

In the financial services industry there are no such requirements for education, experience or training, that determine whether you may call

yourself a financial advisor. Obtaining a securities license simply makes it legal for a financial advisor to receive commissions on the sale of investment or insurance products: it does not mean they have the knowledge to provide quality advice.

Knowing this, how do you go about choosing a qualified financial advisor?

You should first consider what credentials and experience they have, scope of planning they offer, and type of experience to look for when you seek a financial advisor.

Things To Consider When Choosing A Financial Advisor.

DesignationsWhen choosing a qualified financial advisor for your family, look for a financial advisor that has earned the CFP® (Certified Financial PlannerTM) designation. In order to use this designation, professionals must meet the CFP® Board’s education and experience requirements, and agree to their code of ethics. CFP® certification is recognized as the highest standard in personal financial planning and demonstrates a deep knowledge of and commitment to the profession. More and more consumers seeking financial planning help are looking for planners of an exceptional quality who adhere to the highest standard. Nearly 9 in 10 consumers say they would feel more confident working with an advisor who holds a financial planning designation. The CFP® certification provides the public with confidence in an advisor’s ability to meet these expectations.

EducationA Master of Business Administration degree (abbreviated

M.B.A., or MBA) is also highly regarded in the field of Financial Planning. The core courses in an MBA program cover various areas of business such as accounting, finance, investments, economics and operations in a manner most relevant to management analysis and strategy.

ExperienceThere’s something about the passage of time that tends to shake out the incompetents. As an industry undergoes its normal ebbs and flows, those participants who cannot acclimate are separated out, either voluntarily or otherwise. And those are exactly the persons you do not want advising you. It is recommended that an advisor have a minimum of 5 years practical and verifiable experience. Find out how long the planner has been in practice and with what types of clients they have been associated. Ask for a brief description of work experience and how it relates to the planners current practice. Financial Advisors should have several years of experience related to delivering financial planning advice. This hands-on experience suggests that Financial Planners have practical financial knowledge, so you can count on them to help you create a realistic financial plan that fits your individual needs.

ProcessFinancial planning should cover all your financial needs and should result in the achievement of each of your goals as required. The scope of planning would usually include the following:

• Establish and define the relationship.• Identify and prioritize objectives.• Gather information.• Analyze information.• Propose recommendations.• Implement recommendations.• Track ongoing progress.

Throughout your search, remember you are hiring someone who should function as the “chief financial officer” for your family. You want that person to be competent and trustworthy. They should explain things to you in language and terms that you can understand. Just as the right physician can add years to your life, the right financial advisor can add thousands of dollars to your net worth. Take the time to find the right person for the job.


Cancer Screenings • Family Dentistry • Routine Cleanings • Implants Teeth Whitening • Bonding • Clear Aligners Orthodontics

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Choose a Dentist Choose a Dentist It is generally acknowledged that more than 46 percent of consumers do not have a general dentist. Many consumers turn to the phone book to search for a new family dentist. However, this tool may not be the most reliable source of information. To help, the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) provides resources to help you look for a new dentist.

1. Begin the Search Call the AGD’s consumer referral line, 1.877.2X.A.YEAR, to connect with three AGD member dentists. Or, ask for recommendations. Family, friends, neighbors or coworkers can be excellent sources and can refer you to a dentist they feel comfortable visiting. Ask your family physician or local pharmacist. If you are moving, your current dentist may be able to make a recommendation. Or, call your local or state dental society. Find out what they like about the office as well as what they like about the dentist.

2. Start With a Consultation Call or visit more than one dentist before making a decision. During a consultation, talk to the dentist about service available to you and your family. Ask Questions * Is the dentist a member of organized dentistry (AGD, American Dental Association, etc.)? * What is the dentist’s commitment to continuing dental education? * What dental procedures are completed in-office? What procedures will be referred out? * How does the dental team stay up-to- date with the latest procedures? * How are dental emergencies handled? * Is the office clean and professional in appearance?

3. The Appointment After you have selected the dentist and dental office that meets your expectations and your needs, set up an appointment for a general exam, which consists of a cleaning, x-rays and

Procedures Here are some procedures you may want to keep in mind while selecting your dentist to ensure he/she meets all the criteria discussed. • Dental Implants: Implants are titanium or titanium alloy artificial roots that are replaced in the jaw onto which a crown is placed. In the situation where a tooth has to be extracted many times an implant can be placed at the same appointment. This treatment avoids cutting down perfectly good tooth structure for a bridge. Another indication for implants would be to support or stabilize a partial denture or a complete denture, so they don’t move for you causing embarrassment. • Tooth Colored Fillings/Onlays: White fillings may be something you want to consider when needed. Not only does it add to the appearance of the filling but it also strengthens the tooth structure. • Bonding: Many times individuals have spaces between their teeth which is called diastemas. The process of bonding closes the gaps between the teeth allowing a more mature look to your smile. • Porcelain Veneers: Veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted of tooth- colored materials designed to cover the front side of teeth . They are used to treat gaps between your teeth or enhance the appearance of teeth that are stained, badly shaped or crooked.

Technology Many technological advances have been made in dentistry through the years. The Dental practice you choose should be modern in appearance. Signs of this would be: • Informational monitors though out the office explaining the latest practices and up to date techniques. • Digital Imaging for x-rays in place of traditional film. • An up-to-date website explaining briefly the various procedures done within the office. • The ability to create tooth colored crowns and large restorations in one appointment through CAD CAM. • Hard Tissue Laser - This pain free laser works by emitting a specialized light that targets, destroys & removes tooth decay. • Soft Tissue Laser - This replaces traditional surgery for many gum & soft tissue dental applications. A gentler approach to surgical procedures. • Air Abrasion - A drill-less technique that works like a mini sandblaster used to remove tooth decay. • Diagnodent - Laser Cavity Detector This laser instrument scans your teeth with harmless laser light searching for hidden decay that is detectable underneath the enamel before visibly noticed by the naked eye. It is completely safe and pain free. • VELscope - A quick & painless machine used for oral cancer screening.

VELscope Oral Cancer Screening

The VELscope screening system is the newest method of detection for oral cancer. Simply stated, it is a light source of a specific wavelength which induces autoflourescence in the mouth. The unhealthy or suspicious tissue appears darker in color when it is exposed to the light. *This device is simply used to detect unhealthy tissue which may warrant further evaluation. It does not diagnose oral cancer.

medical history. This visit is your opportunity to decide if the dentist and team are personable, patient and caring. Make sure they are considerate of your time and comfort and demonstrate the professionalism you expect.

How To Choose A Dentist Technology

Many technological advances have been made in dentistry through the years. The Dental practice you choose should be modern in appearance. Signs of this would be: •� Informational monitors throughout the office explaining the latest practices and up to date techniques • Digital imaging for x-rays in place of traditional film • An up-to-date website explaining briefly the various procedures done within the office • The ability to create tooth colored crowns and large restorations in one appointment through CAD CAM • Soft tissue laser - this replaces traditional surgery for many gum and soft tissue dental applications. A gentler approach to surgical procedures • Diagnodent - Laser Cavity Detector This laser instrument scans your teeth with harmless laser light searching for hidden decay that is detectable underneath the enamel before visibly noticed by the naked eye. It is completely safe and pain free. • OralID - A quick and painless machine used for oral cancer screening. • Clear Aligner Orthodontics. Clear orthodontic aligners can straighten a dental patient’s teeth without the wires and brackets of traditional braces. The aligners consist of a sequence of clear, removable trays that fit over the teeth to straighten them.

Cancer Screening The OralID screening system is the newest method of detection for oral cancer. Simply stated, it is a light source of a specific wavelength which induces autoflourescence in the mouth. The unhealthy or suspicious tissue appears darker in color when it is exposed to the light. * This device is simply used to detect unhealthy tissue which may warrant further evaluation. It does not diagnose oral cancer.


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Some things to keep in mind when searching for an auto repair shop:

• Less than 40 percent of new auto shop customers are walk-ins. Most people are referred by friends, relatives, or co-workers. If you haven’t received any recommendations, make sure you ask your prospective auto shop for references.

• The Better Business Bureau can help you determine whether the repair shop’s performance and reliability measure up to the industry standards for expertise and professionalism.

• If you travel often, look for an auto repair shop that offers a national warranty. For instance, a warranty of 12,000 miles or 12 months is handy for repetitive issues.

• Check the shop’s range of services and whether the shop has the latest technologies to properly diagnose problems with newer cars. For example, can your prospective shop handle brake systems, electrical components, and warranty repairs? Do they provide a loaner, rental car, or shuttle service while your car is being repaired?

• Look for a good customer satisfaction policy, good condition equipment and lighting, and cleanliness and organization. These factors all contribute to the level of professionalism, gaining customers’ trust, and to optimal service.

• Look for brand-names and proper certification. Does the auto repair shop uses brand-name parts? These parts are engineered to meet the manufacturer’s specifications and will likely come with a warranty.

Are the auto technicians certified by a specific car manufacturer, the National Institute for Automotive Services, or Automotive Science Excellence? Is the shop approved by the American Automobile Association? If so, this indicates a customer approval rating of 90% or better and the ability to adequately perform the services they advertise.

• Whether you are considering a big name franchise or an independently owned shop, compare the usual services and fees of each shop to familiarize yourself with average price ranges.

Don’t select a shop based purely on lower prices; shoddy service or poor quality parts can mean more repairs and higher costs in the long run.

After you’ve chosen a facility, try to establish a good working relationship with the mechanic. Since your car needs preventive maintenance anyway, take it to your new mechanic for a trial run such as an oil change or air conditioning check.

Some services may be offered free of charge; these can provide you with a good idea of the service you will receive.

No one likes to think about needing an auto repair shop, but selecting a good one is like having health insurance: you hope you never need it, but you have it “just in case.”

When it comes to cars, all vehicles will require repairs or service eventually. You could even say that three things in life are certain: death, taxes and car repairs.

Having an existing relationship with an auto repair shop will save time and hassle when your car needs an immediate repair. If you’re not sure how to build a good working relationship with a shop, try taking your car in for regular tune-ups and maintenance; a well-cared-for car will run longer and more smoothly, as well as incur lower operating and service costs.

HOW TO CHOOSE AN AUTO REPAIR SHOP


Imagine a “one-stop shop” for all of your healthcare needs where your primary care provider (PCP)-- your doctor, physician assistant or nurse practitioner is your trusted long-term partner that coordinates care between the hospital, health agencies, specialists and other medical professionals in the future? Co le Memorial’s health network and its over 60 healthcare providers at ten community health centers in Po tter, McKean, Cameron and Tioga counties is paving the way to becoming a “Medical Home” to over 60,000 residents in the communities that Cole Memorial serves.

PCPs at the Cole Memorial network include:

• Family practitioners who see patients of all ages • Pediatricians that focus on care for newborns, infants, children and adolescents. • Internists located at the CCMH Integrated Internal Medicine office and specialize in care for adults

for various diseases and medical disorders • Obstetricians/gynecologists (OB/Gyn) who serve women of all ages.

The team of primary care providers at Cole is committed to building ongoing relationships with patie nts to provide personalized health and wellness programs. In addition, the new electronic health records sy stem at Cole Memorial allows the Medical Home model to evolve, allowing a patientís personal care physici an to communicate and manage the process of electronic scheduling, patient registries for chronic disease management, increase patient education and empower the patient to be engaged in improving his or her health.

Ed Pitchford, president and CEO of Cole Memorial said, “When you receive a regular checkup, attend a n appointment with your Cole primary care provider or come to our Express Care office, a team will proactively handle that visit. In the future, a Care Coordinator may follow-up between and after off ice visits to remind you of any testing or screenings, provide health education, review healthcare goals, answe r your questions and offer steps to improve your health outcomes.”

That’s why it’s important to consider the following when choosing a PCP:

• Is the office staff friendly and helpful? Is the office good about returning calls? • Are the office hours convenient to your schedule? • Do you prefer a provider whose communication style is friendly and warm, or more formal? • Would you prefer a provider that also focuses on wellness and prevention? • Does the provider invite you to be involved in your care? Does the provider view your patient-doctor

relationship as a true partnership?

How to Choose A Primary Care Provider

For more information or to locate a Cole Memorial provider visit www.colememorial.org or call 814-274-9300.


CHOOSING THE RIGHT HEARING AID Hearing aid choice is a challenging and important decision. Choosing a hearing aid can be a complex process. Because your hearing is so important - and because hearing aids are expensive - you want to make sur e you get the right one.

What hearing aid is best for you depends a lot on the type and severity of hearing loss that you have. Before going shopping for a hearing aid, there are some factors that you should consider.

SEE AN AUDIOLOGIST An audiologist is a professional who can help you choose the right hearing aid and be sure that everything fits and is well adjusted. Ask your doctor for a referral to an audiologist. A good audiologist should not sell only one brand of hearing aid or be doing any other sales tricks - he or she should be focused on finding the best hearing aid for your situation.

LOOKS For some people, looks are very important. There are types of hearing aids that are nearly invisible and others that match your skin color. These options may cost more, but if looks are important, there are many alternatives for you.

OPERATION Hearing aids can be tiny. People with vision difficulties or difficulty handling small objects may not want the smallest hearing aid available. Changing batteries may be impossible for them.

Hearing aids are available in more styles and sizes than ever before; thanks to miniaturization of e lectronics and a new focus in the hearing industry on style and design. Now, more and more people can wear tiny, near ly invisible models or sleek styles that are much less conspicuous than the latest Bluetooth® headsets.

• Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) - The smallest custom style, CIC instruments fit deeply and entirely within the ear canal. They fit mild to moderate hearing losses and offer high cosmetic appeal as they’re nearly invisible when worn.

• In-the-Canal (ITC) - ITC instruments sit in the lower portion of the outer ear bowl, making them comfortable and easy to use. Because they’re slightly larger than CIC models; they have a longer battery life and can host additional features, such as directional microphones for better understanding in noisy environments and controls, such as volume control. They fit mild and moderate hearing losses.

• Half Shell (HS) - Half shell models fill half the bowl of the outer ear. Like ITC models, their size enables the addition of features such as directional microphones, volume controls and push buttons to activate special settings for different listening environments. Because of their size, they may be easier than smaller models to handle for some people and yet are still often disguised by hairstyles or sideburns. This hearing aid style looks similar to the ITC hearing aid when worn on the ear, but is slightly larger.

• Full Shell or In-the-Ear (ITE) - Full shell models sit flush within the outer ear bowl. Their size allows the maximum number of additional controls and features such as directional microphones, which require space on the outer portion of the instrument. They use a larger battery size than the smaller styles and can fit a larger receiver with enough power for even some severe hearing losses. Because of their flexibility, they’re widely recommended for mild to severe hearing loss.

Hearing aids worn in the ear are usually custom-fit, based on a cast or impression of the ear. They’re available in different skin tones to camouflage with the outer ear. There are several styles, each of which is listed below, ranging from smallest to largest.

• Mini BTE with slim tube and tip - Mini BTEs are designed to hide behind the outer ear and have ultra-thin tubing to discreetly route sound into the ear. The tubing connects to a soft tip that sits in the ear canal, but doesn’t occlude it. The result is a natural, open feeling as airflow and sound enter the ear naturally around the tip, while amplified sound enters through the tip. This is known as “open fitting” and is recommended for mild to moderate high frequency losses.

• Receiver-in-the-Ear (RITE) - RITE models, also known as RIC (receiver-in-canal) models, are mini BTEs that have the speaker of the instrument incorporated in the ear tip, instead of in the main body of the instrument. RITE instruments fit mild to severe hearing losses. This hearing aid style looks similar to the Mini BTE when worn on the ear.

• BTE with earmold - BTEs with earmolds fit mild through profound hearing losses. They’re longer shape, following the contour behind the outer ear, generally can house more features, controls, and power than custom models. The earmold color and style, as well as the wearer’s hairstyle, determine exactly how they’ll look on each person.

Behind-the-Ear (BTE) models sit behind or on top of the outer ear, with tubing that routes sounds down into the ear that connects to an ear tip or earmold to secure them in the ear canal. BTEs come in colors to blend with hair or skin tones and even chrome colors, leopard print and other funky designs to suit personal styles. Different BTE sizes accommodate different features, controls, battery types and degrees of power (larger instruments generally have more power than smaller ones). While many people choose discreet BTEs that are unnoticeable when worn, others are tempted to show off the cool designs.

W hat to consider TRIAL PERIOD Some companies offer a “test drive” for a hearing aid. This is a good idea. You need some time to know if the hearing aid is going to meet all your needs. Be sure to check if the company charges for the “test drive.”

COST What will your health insurance company pay? Will they cover all types of hearing aids? Hearing aids can cost several thousand dollars, so it is worth your time to make a few phone calls.

COMPATIBILITY Some hearing aids are compatible with assistive hearing devices. Be sure to check about compatibility if you use a telephone amplifier or other device.

SERVICE Be sure you understand the warranty being offered with a hearing aid - for both the hearing aid and the battery. Where can you get new batteries? Who pays for repairs? Where can you get the hearing aid repaired? What if you have a question? How long does the warranty last? Will they send you a temporary hearing aid while yours is being repaired?

In-the-Ear S tyles B ehind-the-Ear S tyles


900 Beaver Drive DuBois, PA 15801 814-371-1085

216 N. 2nd, Suite 6 Clearfield, PA 16830 814-765-8284

1095 Million Dollar Hwy, #2 St. Marys, PA 15857 814-834-7721

3 convenient locations

Visit our website: www.drfoust.com

Richard W. Foust, Au.D.

Call to make your appointment today! There is no cost and no obligation.

Richard W. Foust, Au.D. and staff


If you follow the following guidelines, you will never go wrong choosing your hotel:

1. Conduct a Search The first thing you want to do before choosing a hotel is conduct an online search for all establish ments that are in close proximity to where you will be. For example, if you have a business meeting in city xyz, you will wa nt your hotel to be in city xyz as close to the meeting as possible. There will be several results online. Choose the top five closest hotels. This will ensure that you do not have to drive far to reach your destination when the time comes.

2. Compare the Benefits Your main job is to find the most accommodating hotel you can locate. Visit the web pages of the fiv e hotels you have chosen and research the features and benefits. Every hotel has things that they give their customers . Some establishments offer free access to a fitness center. Other locations may offer a continental breakf ast in the morning. Other things that are good to look for are free services such as Wi-Fi access, cable television, mic rowaves, refrigerators and gaming consoles.

3. Compare Prices Price can play a huge part in where you spend your time. Research a few of the locations to see whic h ones offer their services for the least amount of money. Check to see if you can find any more discounts on rooms at these locations. Certain hotels and resorts offer discounts to people who have AAA memberships. Your employer may als o have a deal with certain hotels. Check to see if working for your currently employer can benefit you in any way. Use this information in the decision making process.

4. Read Between the Lines Customer reviews are one of the most important tools you will use to help you decide on a specific l ocation. No matter what establishments you are considering doing service with, let the reviews help you to decide if yo u will spend your money to stay at a certain place. The customer reviews will let you know how each hotel ranks with users. Reviews will also be able to answer any questions you my have about the friendliness of the staff. They will also notify you of what conditi on the hotel is in. Customers are not afraid so say when they have had a negative experience with a business. Take each customer comment very seriously because each one could be a prediction of how the hotel staff will treat you. If you see a significant amount of negative comment, you might want to remove such an establishment from your lis t, but you should also take all Internet reviews with a grain of salt.

5. Pick and Choose The final step in the section process is picking out the top two hotels. You will decide which one i s the best out of those two. Visit them if you like, so that you can get a feel for the new environment. Ask questions of th e concierge and hotel staff.

When you have taken all of the necessary steps, it will be time for you to pick your hotel. Hopefull y from there will be able to enjoy your stay. After all, choosing the right hotel is very important in your happiness whi le you are away from home.

How To Choose A Hotel There are many reasons why you might need to choose a hotel. One reason you may need a hotel is for a family vacation. Another reason for seeking out hotel accommodations is

a business trip. Perhaps you are in between homes and you need a temporary place to stay. No matter what the reason is that you need to choose a hotel, you must be very

careful in your decision making process. You want to choose a hotel that has a perfect mix of cleanliness, benefits and superior customer service.


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