how to guide 2010

Sunday, January 24, 2010 — The Times-Herald — 1DA D V E R T I S I N G S U P P L E M E N T

Your How To GuideHow To Choose A Restaurant

valuable advice for making informed decisions before you buy

One college student back-packing through Eu-rope ordered spaghetti

and meatballs at every stop, from London to Paris to Rome. He never got bored because they were always just different enough, yet familiar enough at the same time.For folks with a broader range of tastes, nothing is more fun than exploring a new menu. One approach is to have each guest in your party pick a differ-ent one of the nightly specialties and then ask for extra salad plates so everybody can share. Another plan is to ask the maitre d’ about the chef ’s signature entree so you can find out for yourself how the reputation was built.A third technique is to order a personal favorite to compare the preparation to your family recipe or with another restaurant. Just as there must be hundreds of versions of stew, there are an infinite number of ways to sea-son, sauté and cook most dishes. After all, there are several cable channels dedicated to the topic.And don’t be shy about asking your waiter or waitress to fix your order your way. Hamburger chains didn’t invent special or-ders, they borrowed the idea from traditional made-to-order establishments. Hold the salt or monosodium

glutamate. Add extra croutons. Slice the roast beef from the outside where the spices are or from the inside where it’s the most rare. Your dining experience is more enjoyable when you participate. No one would plop down in a barber’s chair and ask for a hair-cut without explanation. So be just as specific in your restau-rant.If you’re on a diet, you no longer have to eat every meal at home. Restaurateurs today typically highlight on their menus dishes that are low in carbs for Atkins Diet followers, dishes that have reduced calories or those that fit diabetic needs. Plus, most are happy to prepare a special order without dairy products, or nuts or salt or whatever you may be allergic to. According to a survey by the Na-tional Restaurant Association, seven out of 10 adults agree that there are more nutritious foods available to them in restaurants now than there were five years ago. That means you don’t have to get a “salesman’s paunch” any more just because you eat out a lot.Your social conscience can also feel good since you’ll be patron-izing the industry that employs the highest percentage of wom-en and minorities in manage-

ment positions, according to the association.When picking a restaurant, think about what sort of experi-ence you envision. A romantic dinner calls for someplace on the quiet side where children aren’t going to remind you of the consequences of, well, romance. If you’re din-ing with kids, you want some-place where they’ll be welcome and won’t be bored.Ads and restaurant listings give you hints about atmosphere, but a call or visit is best. That’s because many restaurants have different environments -- can-dle-lit tables inside for couples, grill rooms for relaxed parties, and scenic gardens perfect for families.It also helps to have a budget in mind. Most guides list aver-age entree prices. But an aver-age that seems higher than your budget shouldn’t always discour-age you.Perhaps you could be happy skipping the appetizers and des-sert. Have a cocktail before leav-ing home or your hotel room to save money.Restaurant portions are usually large enough for a doggie bag that makes terrific leftovers for lunch the next day -- effectively halving the entree price since you get two meals.

Eating out can be an adventure, but finding a restaurant shouldn’t be a chore. First, be open to something new. Even picky eaters should experience varied atmospheres and scenery. A well-run restaurant will have some selections for any palate or age, regardless of its main theme. Old reliables, like a juicy steak or chicken breast, can be found in just about any restaurant. And often, they are prepared with considerable care since they’re not the routine order.

Restaurant:Open Tuesday thruSaturday, 4:30-CloseSunday Brunch, 12:00- 2:30

The Tapas/Martini Bar:Open Friday and Saturday, 5:00-Close, Live Entertainment

Private room available for Weddings, Rehearsals,Christmas andCorporate Parties

Gift Certificates Available

“WHERE EATING IS DINING”

10 EAST WASHINGTON STREET • DOWNTOWN NEWNAN • 770.502.9100

WWW.TENEASTWASHINGTON.COM

2D — The Times-Herald —Sunday, January 24, 2010A D V E R T I S I N G S U P P L E M E N T

Your How To GuideHow To Care For Your Feet


Think of your feet like the wheels on your car; when the wheels on your car

are not properly aligned or bal-anced, the entire ride and wear and tear on your car are affected. In the same way, improper bal-ance and alignment in your feet can negatively affect your body in a number of ways. In many cases, when your car’s wheels are out of alignment, there is no noticeable differ-ence until there is some age on the tires. Only then can you see how the daily wear and tear has unevenly affected your tires. The human body is exactly like that. Poor alignment of the foot bones is not noticeable at first, but as age increases the years of im-proper bone alignment and the resulting improper balance take their toll in several ways.It is a medical fact that the fat pad on the bottom of our feet disappears with age and is not replaceable. In years past, people walked barefoot on soft ground and on uneven ground. This sup-ported their arches and gently kept the tendons and ligaments flexible and stretched for opti-mal functioning. That seems to be how our feet were intended to walk. Now, nearly all of us walk on hard surfaces exclusively, even if on carpeting. The cushioning and support in our shoes cannot match how gravity and hard sur-faces interact. Because of gravity, our feet absorb many times what our body weight is in every step

we take. On average, our feet ab-sorb about 1,000 tons of weight in a single day. This is why 87 percent of us have feet that hurt, and even young people are expe-riencing chronic foot pain.To remedy this situation, doc-tors have provided several sug-gestions to improve painful feet:- Proper shoes: Wearing good shoes that fit properly is part of the solution. This gives our feet the proper home. Our toes need room to move freely while walk-ing. Buying shoes that are the correct shoe width is very im-portant also. Most people wear shoes that are actually too tight for their feet, causing their toes to cramp together in an unnatu-ral way.- Arch supports: It is important to have arch supports in our shoes. These provide the sup-port for tendons and ligaments in the entire foot. The area be-tween the heel and ball of the foot is where the musculature needs to be supported. No shoe on the market provides the kind of arch support that seems to be necessary.Arch supports need to be made of materials that are hard yet flexible. The supports also need to fit the foot. Mail order or other one size fits all products are not specifically fitted to each foot and most likely won’t fit most feet as an individually-sized arch support will.- Cushions: Since the fat pad on the bottom of the feet disappears

with age and is not replaceable, we need to either have proper cushioning in our shoes or put cushions in our shoes. If an arch support is placed into a shoe, a cushion should be placed over it. Remember that cushioning is not sufficient by itself. Without the right size shoes and adequate support in the arch, one will still have foot pain.How arch supports are proac-tive, natural health devices:- Balance: Having support un-der the arch is a magical thing. It actually changes our center of gravity. Simple biomechanical balancing proves this to be true.- Posture: The kind of change that occurs with support in the arch area and the resulting change in one’s center of gravity produces postural change. This can be shown by measuring one’s height with arch supports and without them. Even more amaz-ing is that posture is changed for the better even while sitting.- Knee, hip and spine alignment: Some knee, hip and spine-relat-ed pain comes from deficiencies in posture. When arches are sup-ported, many find the pain they had in these areas is reduced and even disappear. This only makes sense considering how important posture is to our musculature.Once proper balance and posture are achieved, the entire align-ment of the body produces posi-tive results from the foot bones, knees, hips, and spine. Many of the ailments we experience from

foot and pain, knee strain, back pain and headaches can disap-pear.Where do you go to get help? Many people try mail order or over-the-counter solutions. As mentioned before, the one size fits all concept is why shoes are inadequate by themselves. No shoe can offer proper support due to the varying sizes and shapes of our feet. Over-the-

counter products suffer from the same shortfall. A visit to an arch support store where the foot is carefully measured and special-ly-made arch supports and pads are provided for each foot can be the beginning of the end of a number of problems that rob us of our energy and proper health. In fact, many people discover that their feet are actually differ-ent and require slightly different

supports and pads. The end re-sult is better balance, improved posture and natural improve-ment in overall health.A word about the cost; the amount of money spent on proper foot alignment is sub-stantially less than the medical bills that are incurred to treat the symptoms of improper foot alignment.

You can proactively and naturally affect your entire body by taking good care of your feet. Even if you have never thought of proper foot care as a priority for better health, it is not too late to begin to address this all-important part of your body.

Crossroads Podiatry

Medical and Surgical Treatments:• Diabetes • Gout• Arthritis • Heel Pain

• Bunions • Hammertoes• Corns • Ingrown Nails

Two Locations in CowetaThomas Crossroads - Sharpsburg

Hospital Road - Newnan

770 -251-8940www.accesspodiatry.com

New Outpatient Surgery Center!License # 038-343

Dr. Everett J. Mason IIIBoard Certified Foot Surgeon

Sunday, January 24, 2010 — The Times-Herald — 3D

10reasons why nothing

compares to senior living at Towne Club Peachtree City!

A Superb Location. Cited by the U.S. News & World Report as one of the “Top 10 Places to Retire,” Peachtree City has everything you want and need…all a 5-minute walk away.

Feels Like a Cruise Ship. Superior cuisine, stimulating activities, gorgeous surroundings, good friends, first-class service—life at Towne Club feels like a vacation!

Fabulous Apartment Homes. Distinctive, spacious one- and two-bedroom apartments feature impressive upgrades from granite countertops to tile floors to high-end cabinetry.

Country Club Dining. Towne Club offers impeccable dining with first-rate service and an inviting venue. Full-service cocktail lounge, room service and private catering also are yours to enjoy.

Gorgeous Setting. Natural beauty abounds with plush landscaping, soothing water features, scenic gardens, and pleasant trails. And Towne Club is smoke-free.

More Opportunities to Stay Active. With choices like a resort-style saltwater pool, putting green and in-house theater, it’s not only easy to stay active, it’s more fun!

Luxurious, Yet Affordable. There is no buy-in fee at Towne Club. Instead, for a monthly fee, you enjoy all the benefits of luxurious senior living. It’s a great value.

Pets Are Very Welcome. Towne Club is your home, and we welcome your furry friends!

Supportive Services. Should you require occasional nursing support in your apartment, you may make arrangements for personal care through Towne Club.

Longevity. Research indicates that seniors who are happy and live positive, active lifestyles can extend their lives seven years or more. Living at Towne Club will feel great!

Change your address, not yourlifestyle!

Discover independent senior living that feels like a vacation. To learn more, call us at 770-632-5823.

www.towneclubpeachtreecity.com

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Independent Senior Living201 Crosstown Drive

Peachtree City, GA 30269

A D V E R T I S I N G S U P P L E M E N T

Your How To GuideHow To Select A Retirement Community


It is a good idea to ride around to the various retirement communities to get your

first impression of the appear-ance, architecture and location. Once you know which retire-ment communities are to be considered, check the telephone yellow pages and contact the lo-cal Chamber of Commerce to inquire about which retirement communities are members. The more established ones will be listed in the yellow pages and the Chamber of Commerce di-rectory. It is also good to check the internet web site of each area retirement community. The web site will provide key information about the services that are of-fered and the accommodations. Other pertinent information may be obtained from the Depart-ment of Human Resources Li-censing and Survey reports. This information may be obtained via the Internet, at the local Depart-ment of Human Resources or at any retirement community that has a licensed nursing wing or assisted living unit. The Dunn and Bradstreet Financial rating, the State Nursing Home As-sociation, The Better Business Bureau and Long-term-Care Ombudsman are four additional agencies where retirement com-munity stability and historical information may be obtained. Interview with Key Staff:

Call for an appointment and meet the staff; each retirement community is run by an execu-tive director and managers of multiple departments. These include nursing, marketing, di-etary, housekeeping, laundry, so-cial services, recreational activi-ties, maintenance of the physical plant and the grounds, security, business and transportation. Make an appointment with the director of marketing or the admissions coordinator. The marketing director/admissions coordinator will explain about the history and ownership of the property, the age, permits and li-censes and will provide you with brochures and price lists. The marketing director will show you around the property and introduce you to the staff and management who will an-swer any questions you may have. It is important to assess the length of employment of the executive director and key managers, their educational cre-dentials, experience and licenses. A strong retirement community staff is knowledgeable in the areas of geriatrics, the aging process, Medicare, rehabilitation, and all long term care issues. Tour Property and Accommo-dations: A tour of the retirement com-munity is imperative to assess the types and sizes of cottages,

apartments and rooms associat-ed with each level of care. Safety features, emergency response equipment and handicap access ability are important features of the tour. The tour allows a po-tential resident to evaluate the size or space needed for their furnishings, the closets and stor-age space. The cleanliness and mainte-nance or upkeep of the property may also be assessed on the tour. Staff-resident interaction, social activities and residents’ appear-ances may also be observed. Become Informed About Ser-vices, Amenities and Continu-um of Care: During the initial and follow-up interviews and tour, it is vital to be informed about the ameni-ties, services and levels of care that are provided and included in the admission contract. It is imperative that a potential resi-dent be advised about whether the retirement community is a buy-in or lease arrangement, the price, refund policy, pet policy, etc. All amenities such as meals, housekeeping and laundry/linen service, telephone, cable televi-sion, transportation and social activities should be explained. A full service, multi-level con-tinuum of care retirement com-munity offers levels of care that range from independent living in cottages and apartments, to assisted living or personal care to skilled nursing care. It is pref-erable to move into a retirement community where a resident may “age in place” and not have to relocate to another property or facility if they should have changes in their condition or require personal assistance or nursing care.

The social or recreational activ-ity program should be assessed when making the decision about your future lifestyle. An activi-ties or social calendar should be available for you to study. A var-ied program of activities offering mental or sensory stimulating activities, physical activities and cultural entertainment should be included so that a resident has multiple daily options and may be as active as they choose to be. Examples of popular activities include bridge and other card games, movies, bingo, aerobic exercise classes, exercise equip-ment for individual or group use, birthday parties, special theme parties and seasonal or holiday celebrations. Also, outings with provided transportation that in-clude tours of the area, lunches at local restaurants and trips to cultural events should be in-

cluded in the social calendar. Arts and crafts classes should be available for those who enjoy creative pursuits. A transportation program should be provided to assure transportation to doctor’s ap-pointments and other essential pickups, deliveries or personal transportation to shop, obtain medications and other essen-tials since many senior citizens choose to stop driving. An es-tablished retirement community will have available vehicles that include cars, vans and/or a bus for individual and group trans-portation. The safety or security of a retire-ment community should also be assessed since this is a primary reason to leave one’s personal home. Twenty-four hour securi-ty is preferable and a gated com-munity is a comforting asset. Communicate with Residents,

Families and Physicians:Another key way to assess that a retirement community is repu-table and stable operationally is to communicate with the cur-rent residents, their families and friends. Ask pertinent questions about the staff, services, ameni-ties and day-to-day operations and activities. Also, ask your personal physician about local retirement communities, and which ones they would recom-mend for their loved ones and their patients. Also, it’s a good idea to inquire about the possi-bility of an overnight visit that includes a few meals and social activities to see if a certain retire-ment community is a good fit for you. Find out about the length of stay for the majority residents and this should give you a good idea about the quality of care and the morale of the resident population.

The first thing is to find out what retirement communities are located in the area where you or your relative(s) prefer to live. The weather is an important factor and the proximity to hospitals, doctors, pharmacies, retail malls/stores is important.

Access the social and recreational activities available.

4D — The Times-Herald —Sunday, January 24, 2010A D V E R T I S I N G S U P P L E M E N T

Your How To GuideHow To Select An Assisted Living Residence


Each residence defines the levels and types of care they will provide. It is im-

portant to know your care needs and expectations before you be-gin your search for an Assisted Living residence. It is important to know, not only your immedi-ate, but your long-term expecta-tions and care needs. It is im-portant to explore all the varied care options offered by different Assisted Living residences.Some important questions to

ask are: What services are offered? Are they included in the base price or will there be add on fees for extra services or care? How are the fees determined? Is the resident or family informed and included in any changes be-fore they occur? What financial commitment will be expected at entry into the residence? What happens if the money runs out? What other funding sources can the

residence utilize? What care can you expect to re-ceive for the quoted fee? When and what types of care exceed the capabilities of the residence? Can you use outside providers such as family or hired care pro-viders to supplement your care needs? What will happen when your care needs exceed the capabili-ties of the residence and how will you be informed when this occurs? What services and care are pro-vided by the residence and what outside care providers are avail-able? Can the residence accommo-date special dietary needs? Are all meals, snacks and/or supple-ments included in the base fee? Are meals prepared on premises or transported from another lo-cation? Are housekeeping and laundry services available? Are they in-cluded in the base fee or extra? What specialized services are available?, i.e. incontinence care,

therapy, exercises, injectable medications, treatments, wound care, etc. Is the residence handicap acces-sible? Can special accommoda-tions be made in the living en-vironment? What activities and socialization opportunities are available? Are they on or off premises or both? What is the residence survey history? Are copies of the resi-dences licensure and compliance records available for inspection? Are there any outstanding com-pliance issues? What do the residents say about the community? What do family members say about the care? What does the Better Business Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, Long-term-care Ombudsman and licensing agency say about the community? Do they have a resident or fam-ily council and what, if any, is-sues have been addressed? Is the residence responsive to resident and family inquiries and input? What is done in medical emer-gencies and what emergency care is available? What are the credentials and background of the management and direct care staff? What are the staffing patterns in a 24 hour day and during the week and weekends? How do you access management staff and direct care staff if issues arise? What is your overall impression of the management staff, care staff, residents and the living en-vironment? Trust your instincts, if it just doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t the right residence for you. Be sure to explore all your options. Leave no question unasked and no question unanswered. Don’t be afraid to look around and ask

questions. This is going to be the home of someone very special and their safety, sense of well-being and care is very important. Does it feel like a place you can call home? Senior Housing: Senior housing is also a fast growing and varied market. Se-nior housing ranges from low income and subsidized hous-ing to resort accommodations. Senior housing developments range from single occupant units to high rise buildings. A variety of accommodations and services are available to the residents in Senior Housing developments. There are many reasons for making the decision to make a move to a Senior housing devel-opment. Here are some impor-tant questions to ask in making the decision as to what is right for you and makes you feel at home: What type of housing best meets my needs? An apartment, cottage, maintenance free? What are my short and long-term needs? Will I require the availability of supportive ser-vices? Are health and medical support services available and how will I access them in the develop-ment? Is someone available on prem-ises to respond to security, medi-cal or maintenance issues? What type of financial com-mitment is required? What if my health changes will I lose any money I’ve invested in the development? If my financial resources are limited what other funding sources are available? What limitations are set on pets, visitors, and decorating of the interior and exterior of the unit? Will I retain the right to make

choices in my living arrange-ments or will the community management govern those choices should my care or health status change? What recreational and social events are available? Are they included or at an additional fee? Are transportation services avail-able? Are they included or at an additional fee? What services, shopping and re-sources are available in the sur-rounding community? If the Senior housing has other levels of care such as Home Health, Assisted Living or a Nursing residence associated with it; how do I access those services? Who decides when I will be required to make a move or change? What security measures are in place? What is the surrounding community like? Are current residents available to visit with? What do the resi-dents say about the living there? What does the Better Business Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, and local housing authority say about the development? What are the credentials and background of the management and staff? What are the staff-ing patterns during the day and during the week and weekends? How do you access management and staff if issues arise? The decision to move into any type of assisted living or senior housing community is impor-tant. Asking the right questions and getting the answers to those questions is the key to assuring a successful transition and secure future. Trust your instincts, if it just doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t the right move for you. Be sure to explore all your options.

Assisted living residences are relatively new and rapidly growing providers in the health care field. They can be found nationwide. The variety and availability of services provided are just as varied as the states and communities in which they are located. There are many variations and levels of care provided at Assisted Living residences. The care services range from independent living to nursing home levels of care.

Savannah Court of Newnan27 Belt RoadNewnan, GA 30263770.251.6639www.SavannahCourtNewnan.comAssisted Living Facility License No. 038-03-002-9Assisted Living Community

Why is

Savannah Court“The Talk of Coweta County?”

“Our family patriarch, Thomas A. Glanton, has been a resident of Savannah Court for 9 wonderful years. “Pop” is 98 and counting! The care and services he receives from the Savannah Court team are incomparable and outstanding.”

Tom P. Glanton

“We visited several assisted living residences in the area and we made the perfect choice for mother, Dorothy Jordan. The residents and staff are kind and offer warm affection to the residents. Their experience with seniors shows in all that they do. We could not be happier!”

Dr. Harold Jordan

“My wife and I have lived at Savannah Court for nearly 8 years. We wanted a warm home full of loving people. As a bonus, there are so many programs to keep us busy! We also enjoy each afternoon, spent together on the rocking chair front porch. We wouldn’t live anywhere else.”

Reverend and Mrs. Sidney Gresham

“I have over 38 years of experience in working with seniors and am so proud to be the Executive Director of Savannah Court. It is our associates who make our assisted living community “special.” The warmth of the decor, the individualized care offered to each resident, the programming and volunteers are also wonderful. But it is the loving kindness shown to our residents that creates the magic of Savannah Court.”

Brenda Mitchell, Executive Director

A signature community of

OPEN HOUSESunday, January 312:00pm - 4:00pm

Refreshmentsand Giveaways!


There are many opportunities this year to help you renew your efforts to save for retirement and stay focused on reaching your retirement goals. These opportunities include:

Opening or fully contributing to a traditional Roth IRA by April 15 to help maximize saving for retirement in a tax-advantaged manner

Consolidating retirement accounts to get a clearer picture of your retirement

Converting all or part of a tax-deferred IRA to a Roth IRA so you can receive tax-free income* in retirement

* Earnings distributions from a Roth IRA may be subject to taxes and a 10% penalty if the account is less than fi ve years old and the owner is under age 591⁄2.

Art HolbrookFinancial Advisor

6 Jefferson Pkwy.Newnan, GA 30263

770-251-3500

Tony BellFinancial Advisor

53 Main StreetSenoia, GA 30276

770-599-3981

Bill WhitehouseFinancial Advisor

820 Ebenezer Church Rd.Sharpsburg, GA 30277

770-252-2391

Minesh AminFinancial Advisor

Newnan, GA 30265

770-231-8996

Sam Madaris Jr.Financial Advisor

7 East Broad StreetNewnan, GA 30263

770-251-8391

www.edwardjones.com

Brian L. CochrumFinancial Advisor

10 The BoulevardNewnan, GA 30263

770-251-8316

Member SIPC

Today both middle- and upper-income families may have a need for a fi-

nancial planner either at specific times or throughout the life span of the family. Personal financial advisers - also called financial planners or financial consultants - generally assess the financial needs of individuals and provide them with a wide range of op-tions, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Depart-ment of Labor, Occupational Handbook, 2002-03 Edition.Personal financial planners are professionals who design an overall strategy to meet specific financial objectives. Some of the issues they address are retire-ment planning, estate planning, tax law changes, funding for col-lege and general investment op-tions. Most planners are gener-alists and offer advice on a wide range of topics. Some specialize in areas such as estate planning or risk management.

When to consult a plannerMajor life changes, such as a new job, a raise, marriage, par-enthood, divorce, widowhood, or substantial inheritance or other windfall, are events that may prompt consultation with a financial planner. If you are within 30 years of retiring, a financial planner can help you plan for adequate retirement in-come. Or, if your financial affairs seem

generally disorganized and with-out direction, a financial planner can help you measure where you are now, help you decide where you want to be and design a plan with options to meet your goals. Generally, single persons with an annual gross income more than $30,000 and married cou-ples with a combined income of $40,000 or more may find a financial planner useful. If you earn substantially more, it is likely a financial planner could help you coordinate the advice you receive from other profes-sionals and consultants such as your stockbroker, accountant and/or attorney.

The planner’s jobAn adviser’s work begins with a consultation with the client, where the adviser obtains infor-mation about the client’s financ-es and financial goals. Based on the information provided by the client, the adviser draws up a comprehensive financial plan that includes an identification of problem areas and recommends steps to improve the financial status of the client.The plan will contain the advis-er’s description of investments that would help the client meet goals, taking into consideration the client’s tolerance for risk, long- and short-term goals and current financial status. The plan may be discussed verbally, but most often it is presented to the

client in writing. Financial advisers recommend an update at least once a year to evaluate the success or shortcom-ings of the plan and to review any changes that may be indicated. Normal and unexpected events in the client’s life can affect the overall plan, as can changes in the viability of the investments. According to the Department of Labor’s job description, per-sonal financial planners may be involved in buying and selling fi-nancial products, such as mutual funds or insurance. Some also assume the management of their clients’ investments.

Education and certificationA college degree is not a prereq-uisite for becoming a personal financial adviser, although many in the profession hold bachelor’s degrees or post-graduate degrees. Certification is not required, but obtaining certifications, such as certified financial planner (CFP) or chartered financial consultant (ChFC) designations, can en-hance professional standing. Certifications also assure pro-spective clients that the planner has extensive training and has demonstrated competency in the area of financial planning. The certified financial plan-ner designation is issued by the CFP Board of Standards, which reviews relevant experience, education requirements and performance on a comprehen-

sive examination. The certifying board also requires adherence to an enforceable code of ethics. The chartered financial con-sultant designation is issued by the American College in Bryn Mawr, Pa. This designation in-dicates that the planner’s experi-ence and completion of an eight-course study program have met the board’s requirements. Both designations carry a require-ment for continuing education for maintaining standing with the certifying boards. There are no requirements for licensure for

personal financial planners who limit their professional activities to evaluating their clients’ finances and making recommendations to reach financial goals. Financial planners who sell stocks, bonds, insurance or real estate as part of their professional activities often are required to obtain profession-al licenses from the state in which they practice.

FeesGenerally, financial planners charge the client an hourly fee for services, or they may charge

a specified fee for the specific service performed. A fee for a comprehensive plan may vary depending on the complexity of the plan. When a planner man-ages a client’s assets, the fee for services may be a percentage of the assets under management. The purchase of any stocks, bonds, insurance, real estate or other investment instruments is a charge incurred by the client in addition to service fees.

Selection processSelection of a personal financial planner requires the same care-ful process as choosing any pro-fessional service provider. Solicit recommendations from your friends and colleagues. Schedule an introductory appointment with at least two professionals so you will have a basis for com-parison. Ask about education, experience, specialties, fees and scope of services provided. Assure yourself that the per-son you select is someone you trust and with whom you feel comfortable discussing personal financial matters. Conduct an interview in much the same way you would conduct an interview with a prospective employee. In effect, this individual, although an independent contractor, will be working for you. After you have selected your per-sonal financial planner, continue to monitor your investments and financial status, working with your planner to evaluate your progress toward your goals and to make adjustments if neces-sary. In the final analysis, it is your money, your decision and your future.


Your How To GuideHow To Choose A Financial Planner


Financial decisions have become more complex for most individuals. Two-income households, increasingly complex tax laws, financial deregulation and a greater variety of saving and investment options have increased the number of decisions an individual or family must make and the difficulty of those decisions.

6D — The Times-Herald —Sunday, January 24, 2010

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Your How To GuideHow To Shop For Furniture


W hen it comes to deco-rating your home or apartment, furniture

can be a major expense with longstanding impact. It pays to think about what you need, what you want, and what your budget will allow.

Getting StartedStart by making a list of your needs room by room. Perhaps you already have some pieces to coordinate with, or maybe you are starting from scratch. Are you replacing long-outdated or worn furniture? Do you need more seating or more sleeping space? Is it time to finally get that large kitchen table that your whole family can gather around or time to get all your stacks of books in a nice cabinet? Whatever your new furniture needs are, make a list and prioritize them so you won’t be overwhelmed or wan-der around aimlessly having no idea what you are looking for.Once you know what your prior-ities are, be sure to measure your room or the space that you will be placing your new furniture. Wooden pieces come in a vari-ety of sizes and you will need to know if the item you are looking at will fit or not. You would not want to get home with an enter-tainment center that will not fit on your wall or overwhelms your room.

After you’ve itemized and sized up your needs, browse through decorating magazines and cata-logs to help identify the styles you like. Again, advance consid-eration of the styles that appeal to you will greatly narrow your choices and aid you in finding the right style and selection for your home.

Furniture JargonAfter determining what piece or pieces you want and pinpointing some basic styles that feel “right” to you, it’s time to target a bud-get. As you can imagine, prices vary widely, and are often tied to the quality of the piece. Finding good furniture that works for you involves understanding how pieces are made and then decid-ing if the quality of the piece will bear up in day-to-day use.Familiarize yourself with these terms that are used to describe case goods - furniture that is not upholstered, like bedrooms and dining rooms:Solid hardwood: Furniture de-scribed this way should be en-tirely crafted of hardwood, such as oak, maple or cherry. Hard-wood furniture should last for generations, and can be repaired and/or refinished, if needed. Solid Wood: This term refers to any wood, soft or hard, used throughout the piece. Like hardwood, solid wood can be re-

paired or refinished and should have a very long life. Be care-ful; sometimes the term “solid wood” is used loosely, meaning “solid wood products.” After all, pressed board, chip board and even cardboard are solid wood (and glue) products. Wood Veneer over Solid Wood: Veneers are thin slices of deco-rative woods, such as mahogany and burled maple. Applied over a solid wood frame, veneers add a beautiful surface not possible with regular, solid wood alone.Veneers occasionally come un-glued from their base and should be repaired by a professional fur-niture restorer. Wood Veneer over Particle Board or Medium Density Fi-ber Board (MDF): Instead of a wood framework, the underly-ing piece is constructed of fiber board or particle board. This is sometimes also referred to as engineered wood. The veneer in this case should be a natural wood, not man-made. Laminate: A laminate is a man-made surface which can appear to look like wood, or is available in many other colors. It is ap-plied over a framework, usually particle board. Laminate is more durable than an “engraved fin-ish.” Engraved Wood Finish: This is not wood at all, though by the sound of it you might think so.

This term refers to essentially a paper-like photograph of wood grain that is used to give the ap-pearance of wood. This type of surface usually is not repairable if it gets damaged.

How It Is MadeWell-made furniture will not

be glued together exclusively, though glue can be used to help reinforce joints. Take a look at a drawer, for instance. A sign of good craftsmanship would include dovetailed front and side pieces, and the use of wood throughout the drawer. On a table the corners are usually re-inforced with a corner block. Pieces should feel heavy, solid and not wobbly.Particle board framework is commonly used today as a means to control costs. Particle board is also very strong, in some cases stronger than certain woods. For some uses, it is a budget-saving means to furnish a space.When a piece is described as having an oak finish, fruitwood finish, or specifies any other “finish” term, make sure you find out if the item is actually con-structed of wood. Clever catalog and furniture store descriptions often make it sound as if the

“finish” is actually referring to a type of wood used in the piece, which may or may not be the case. Be certain to ask exactly what the furniture is constructed from before you make any as-sumptions.

Furniture SourcesThe most obvious place to look is in local furniture stores. How-ever, don’t forget real estate sales, auctions and consignment stores.Refinishing used furniture is also a way to recycle a piece of furniture, giving new life to what might otherwise get thrown away.When you are ready to start out on your furniture hunt, re-member to assess your needs, set your priorities, narrow down the styles you are looking for, target a budget and then enjoy your search for the “perfect” pieces to complement your home.

With a basic understanding of wood, you’ll find buying easier. Have you been furniture shopping lately? The experience may leave your mind swirling with new terminology: Solid wood, veneered wood, engineered wood, “engraved” wood-look, stained, washed, natural finishes and any number of other descriptive phrases for wood, wannabe wood or wood finishes.

Whatever your new furniture needs are, make a list and prioritize them so you won’t be overwhelmed or wander around aimlessly having no idea what you are looking for.


3/31/10. 3/31/10. 3/31/10.

3/31/10.3/31/10.3/31/10.


Your How To GuideHow To Choose The Right Tire For Your Car


How Many Tires Do I Need?All four tires should be identi-cal. If your tires don’t match, you could have handling problems. For instance, one end of your ve-hicle may not respond as quickly or completely as the other end, making the vehicle more diffi-cult to control. If you just need to replace one tire that has been damaged, re-place it with a tire of the same size and speed rating. A tire that doesn’t match the other three tires on your vehicle could affect your driving.If you need to replace two tires and the remaining two have a lot of tread depth left, replace them with tires that match your existing set as closely as possible. Identical new tires are best, but others of the same size and type can also provide good results.

Should I Buy a Different Type of Tire?If you are replacing all four tires, you can explore another cat-egory of tires. If you want longer lasting tires, better traction or a smoother ride, there are tires that will help you accomplish this.

What Size of Tire Do I Need?Tires must be able to carry the weight of your vehicle. If a tire is overworked just carrying the load, it will have little reserve capacity to help your vehicle re-spond quickly and safely. Do not buy undersized tires.

Check your owner’s manual, ve-hicle door jam or glove box, to find the size of tire recommend-ed for your vehicle. The other size consideration is overall tire diameter. For cars and vans, stay within a +/-3% diameter change. Pick-ups and sport util-ity vehicles (SUVs) are usually engineered to handle up to a 15 percent oversize tire.What Weather And Driving Conditions Will the Tires Face?Select a tire that suits the driving conditions you face most often:- Snow or ice: snow tires- Heavy traffic: more responsive tires- Winding roads or in the moun-tains: a tire that handles well- Extensive highway driving: tires with a smooth, quiet ride.If you face very different driv-ing conditions (heavy snow in the winter and lots of highway driving in the summer), consider selecting two sets of tires. You’ll get better driving performance and longer total wear from your tires.

What Kind of Look Do I Want?Think about whether you’re happy with standard tires or you want the added flair of custom wheels or plus sizing.

How Can I Find The Best Value?Simple fact: In the long run, cheap tires won’t save you money. They don’t last as long as higher quality tires and may result in a rougher ride and inferior handling.

Your goal in tire shopping should be to find the highest quality tire that meets your specific needs and your budget.

A tire has several functions:- STEERS THE VEHICLE.A tire’s ability to maintain its

course affects the vehicle’s abili-ty to drive in a straight path. The tire has to help the vehicle steer regardless of road and weather conditions.- SUPPORT THE VEHICLE.A car tire has to carry more than 50 times its own weight.

- ABSORBS BUMPS.The flexibility of a tire helps it absorb obstacles on uneven road surfaces and provides a stable ride for the driver and passengers while protecting the vehicle.- TRANSMIT FORCE. Tires transmit the engine’s pow-

er to accelerate and the braking force to stop. How well the tire performs these functions de-pends in part on how well the tire is maintained.

The tires on your vehicle can affect your safety and your driving enjoyment. Choose tires that match both your vehicle and the way you drive.

8D — The Times-Herald —Sunday, January 24, 2010

The OB/GYN Specialistsof Newnan

Board Certifi ed•

Normal Pregnancy•

High Risk Pregnancy•

Infertility•

Laparoscopic Surgery•

Gynecologic Surgery•

Menopause•

Osteoporosis•

Midwifery Services•

Test ResultsYou are anxious to receive your test results. Please be assured that we will do our part to relay this information. You will be notifi ed on normal pap results by mail. Abnormal fi ndings will be discussed with you over the telephone.

PrescriptionsRequest prescriptions and refi lls during regular offi ce hours. All prescriptions will be called in during the day and will be ready for pickup late afternoon.

InsuranceWe participate with most providers, check with us if you are unsure about our participation when you make your appointment.

10 Market Square Way • SummerGrove Suite 101 • Newnan

770-683-0880www.theobgynspecialists.com

George StefenelliD.O., F.A.C.O.O.G.Obstetrics and Gynecology

We Offer 3D-4D Ultra Sounds

Comprehensive Healthcare For All Women

James ZubernisD.O., F.A.C.O.O.G.Obstetrics and Gynecology

Mary Nell ReevesC.N.M., BSHCAObstetrics and Gynecology

A graduate of the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Stefenelli is board certifi ed in OB/GYN. An internship was completed at the Interfaith Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York and a residency in OB/GYN at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. He specialized in obstetrics, gynecology and gynecologic and laparoscopic surgery.

Dr. Zubernis is a graduate of the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed an internship in OB/GYN at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Philadelphia. He completed a residency in OB/GYN at the Hospital of the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.

A graduate of the University of Mississippi, Mary is board certifi ed in Nurse Midwifery by the American College of Nurse Midwives. A Bachelor of Science degree in Health Care Administration was completed at St. Joseph College in Windham, Maine. Mary has provided healthcare for women in Georgia for over 25 years. As a Certifi ed Nurse Midwife, she specializes in women’s health, obstetrics, and gynecology.

Your obstetrician/gynecologist may be the most important partner in health you

have. These days, ob/gyn’s not only are called upon to maintain a woman’s sexual, reproductive and postmenopausal health, but also to act as an overseer for all of a woman’s healthcare needs. That means your ob/gyn must be broadly trained in all aspects of medicine, know which types of diagnostic and laboratory tests you may need and recognize when you need a referral to another specialist. Because ob/gyn’s play such an important role in health and well-being, and because they play such a central role in one of the most private aspects of your life, finding the right one takes some time and planning. You might want to begin by taking an informal poll in your church, neighborhood, or at work to see which doctors or clinics are mentioned most or asking a friend about her ob/gyn. But don’t stop there. Checklist: What to look for in an OB/GYN Professional certification. First, you want to make sure your doc-tor is board-certified in obstet-rics and gynecology. That means that the doctor has passed the accreditation tests to practice in that medical specialty. Board-eligible means that the doctor is qualified to take the test, but has not yet taken or passed the test. Most residency trained ob/gyn’s

must be in practice a specific amount of time after their resi-dency ends to sit for the exam. Board-certified means the doc-tor has practiced that amount of time, taken and passed the exam and is fully credentialed. Do you have any limitations or guidelines for OB/GYN selec-tion or referral from your insur-ance carrier? Check with your insurance carrier on which ob/gyn’s are part of your plan. Most carriers have lists of physicians that are “contracted” with them to provide care for their insured. Call the doctor’s office. Pay at-tention. How the person on the other end of the line speaks to you can tell you a lot about the overall practice style of that phy-sician. Does the person on the other end sound friendly and pleas-ant, or harried and hostile? Your first question should be to verify whether the practice accepts your particular form of insurance. Getting to know you. If you’ve gotten this far you may want to schedule an introductory visit. You will probably be charged for consultation time, but if get-ting the right doctor and feeling comfortable with this person is paramount, it may be worth it. Some things to talk about dur-ing your visit: Check out the office and the staff. Do you feel welcome? Does it feel like Grand Central Station, a funeral parlor, or a place that will help you stay calm

in a crisis? Is the staff friendly, well groomed or do they look and act as if they would rather be somewhere else? All of this is a direct reflection of the physi-cian’s attitude. Practice style. Does the physician readily prescribe medications for problems or adopt more of a wait-and-see approach? What’s the doctor’s experience with and attitude toward alternative medicine? If you are planning on becoming pregnant or are pregnant, you’ll want to find out how your doctor approaches labor and delivery. If you are in midlife, your doctor’s opinions about hormone re-placement therapy will be good to know. Attitude. Does the physician seem to encourage you to freely communicate, or does he/she seem too busy to listen? Does the physician make every effort to learn about your needs and concerns? Does he/she seem more like an authority figure or a partner in your health care? Finally, do you like the doctor? Remember, you’ll be discussing the most intimate details of your life with this person. Your gut feeling about the doctor is often what’s most important. Meet the doctor’s partners. You may end up spending more time with them than you think. Find out if partners, nurse practitio-ners, nurse midwifes, physician assistants, etc. are available when your doctor isn’t, or whether you

will be referred to another medi-cal practice. While you’re at it, find out what to do if you have an after-hours emergency and who will be available to care for you then. Phone calls. Find out how phone calls are handled. Will you be al-lowed to speak to the physician, his nurse or will a message be

taken and returned? Most phy-sician offices will let you speak with the nurse if they’re avail-able. If a message will be taken find out when phone calls are returned. Some physician offices return calls at lunch and the end of the day. Making up your mind Now that you’ve done your

homework, go ahead and make your decision. You can feel good that you’ve done everything you could to find a medical partner best suited for you. And remember, if over time you do not feel uncomfortable with your choice or your needs for a physician changes, then find another. You’re in charge!


Your How To GuideHow To Choose An OB/GYN


Different women need different things from an obstetrician/gynecologist (ob/gyn), and most women’s needs change throughout their lives. Choosing an ob/gyn is most important, especially since some 70 percent of women who see one have no other doctor.

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