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In a message dated 4/12/03 3:02:12 PM, Peter in Chicago writes:
John, Thought this Chicago Tribune article would be interesting for the newsletter. The funeral home in this story, Weinstein Family Services, is owned by the corporation formerly called Lowen Group, FYI... - Peter
Cop settles suit in hearse crash for $10 million
Funeral home held liable after driver tried to beat light
By John Keilman
Tribune staff reporter
Published April 10, 2003
An Arlington Heights police officer who was severely injured when a hearse rammed his squad car two years ago won a $10 million settlement from a funeral home operator Wednesday.
Chuck Tiedje, 39, has undergone 19 operations since Aleksandr Babayev, a driver for Weinstein Family Services in Wilmette, ran a red light at Windsor Drive and Palatine Road and slammed into Tiedje's police car.
After the October 2000 collision, Tiedje was in a coma for nearly four weeks. He suffered a fractured femur, pelvis and hips; injuries to his head and internal organs; and various infections.
Tiedje, a runner and fitness buff before the accident, regained the ability to walk but said he will have to retire from the police force soon because of lingering physical limitations.
"I'm still in a considerable amount of pain," he said. "Even though I've got one more surgery left, they've done basically all they can do."
The key to the settlement, said Robert Clifford, Tiedje's attorney, was recovering a data recorder from the 1999 Cadillac hearse. The device, now standard on many vehicles, captures a car's speed and braking information in the seconds before air bags deploy.
Clifford said the hearse's recorder showed the vehicle was going 63 m.p.h. in a 45-m.p.h. zone and that the brakes were activated too late.
Four months after the accident, Babayev pleaded guilty to disobeying a red light and was fined $100.
"We could establish that [Babayev] ... was trying to beat the light," Clifford said.
Lyn Mulzahn, who represented Weinstein, declined to comment.
Tiedje said he didn't know what he would do now, though possibilities include getting a college degree, trying to teach at a police academy or running for office. Tiedje has organized a blood drive in Arlington Heights and said he plans to continue promoting blood and organ donation.
He has completed physical therapy, he said, but still works out four or five times a week to keep his muscles strong and his pain level manageable. His next surgery, to fuse bones in his back, could put him in bed for six months.
Tiedje will get his settlement tax-free, like all such awards, but when legal fees and other expenses are paid, he will get about half, he said. Some of the money will go into an annuity meant to provide a steady income for his family.
A multimillion-dollar award might sound like a windfall, he said, but "stand in my body for 5 minutes and see what it feels like. ... I would trade [the money] to feel the way I used to."
In a message dated 4/9/03 4:48:36 PM, Bill in Massachusetts writes:
The sole of the shoe being pointed towards a person in IRAQ is almost the ULTIMATE INSULT. This is the reason that IRAQUIS were throwing shoes at statues of "The Fallen Saddam"
In a message dated 3-26-2003 5:17:23 PM, lacorn@icfa.org writes:
INTERNATIONAL CEMETERY AND FUNERAL ASSOCIATION
CONVENTION & EXPOSITION REFLECTS CONTINUED GROWTH
RESTON, VA (March 26, 2003) -- The International Cemetery and Funeral
Association (ICFA) 2003 Convention & Exposition, March 10-13 in Las
Vegas, Nevada, proved a successful and exciting continuation of the
growth of the ICFA and its premier educational event.
Drawing owners and operators of cemeteries, funeral homes, crematories,
memorial design companies, suppliers and related businesses together
"Under One Roof," the Convention was one of the most well-attended in
the ICFA's history.
Attendance figures for the 2003 Convention & Exposition were:
o Total cemetery, funeral home and allied business representatives: 564
- Full registrations: 385
- One-day registrations: 100
- Exhibit hall only attendees: 79
o Spouse/guest registrations: 139
o Press passes/association representatives/other complimentary attendance: 15
o Exhibitor and supplier registrations: 346
While these figures represent a large increase over the 2002 Convention,
they do not tell the whole story. Of note:
o 93 percent of the industry representatives in attendance were from
independently owned cemeteries, funeral homes, crematories, memorial
design companies and other related non-supplier businesses.
o By far a record for the ICFA, 185 of the non-supplier industry
representatives in attendance were first-time attendees.
o The Exposition sold out for the first time in several years, with 186
booths and 15 table-top exhibits.
o The Convention & Exposition drew media coverage from two local
broadcast news crews and a local print reporter, as well as a British
reality television show.
"International Cemetery and Funeral Association members have always been
known for their progressive ideas and willingness to share," said ICFA
Internal Chief Operating Officer Joseph Budzinski. "The format of this
Convention -- staging the educational sessions and the Exposition
together in one large room and continuing to offer educational sessions
that you won't find anywhere else -- really makes the most of the
association's strengths. It takes the networking to a new level and, as
so many people have commented, gives the entire atmosphere a charge of
excitement for exhibitors and attendees alike. ICFA will continue this
format next year in Nashville and at all future Conventions."
Both attendees and exhibitors rated the 2003 Convention & Exposition
highly, and 72 percent of attendees surveyed indicated they "definitely"
or "probably" plan to attend the ICFA 2004 Convention, March 10-13 in
Nashville, Tennessee. Of the exhibitor surveys received to date,
exhibiting companies rated the overall Exposition an average of 8.2 on
a scale of 1 to 10, and 80 percent have indicated they "definitely" or
"probably" will attend the 2004 Exposition.
Founded in 1887, the ICFA is the only international trade association
representing all segments of the cemetery, funeral and memorialization
industry. Its membership is comprised of more than 5,800 cemeteries,
funeral homes, monument dealerships, crematories and related businesses
worldwide.
INTERNATIONAL CEMETERY AND FUNERAL ASSOCIATION
ELECTS NEW OFFICERS, DIRECTORS
RESTON, VA (March 26, 2003) - The International Cemetery and Funeral Association (ICFA) elected new leadership during its Annual Convention & Exposition, March 10-13.
ICFA officers for 2003-2004 are:
o President--Carol Caunter, Tobias Funeral Home, Dayton, Ohio
o President-elect--Patrick Downey, CCE, Palm Mortuaries and Memorial Parks, Las Vegas, Nevada
o Vice President, Industry Relations Committee--Paul Elvig, Evergreen-Washelli Memorial Park and Funeral Home, Seattle, Washington
o Vice President, Products and Services Committee--Mark Krause, Krause Funeral Homes, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
o Vice President, Education Committee--Thomas Roberts, CCE, Allegheny Cemetery, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
o Vice President, Membership Committee--Dave Tobias, Tobias Funeral Home, Dayton, Ohio
o Treasurer--Ray Frew, CCFE, Green Hills Memorial Park, Rancho Palos Verdes, California
o Secretary--Cindy Thompson, CCFE, Mountain View Funeral Home and Memorial Park, Tacoma, Washington
Members elected to serve three-year terms on the ICFA Board of Directors are:
o Kevin R. Daniels, CCE, Southwest Commemorative Services, Rio Rancho, New Mexico
o Vincent L. Faccinto, CCFE, Crest Lawn Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home, Cookeville, Tennessee
o Ray Frew, CCFE, Green Hills Memorial Park, Rancho Palos Verdes, California
o William L. Garrison, CCE, Lake View Cemetery Association, Cleveland, Ohio
o L.T. "Tommy" Metcalf, CFSP, Metcalf Funeral Home Inc. (SCI), Conroe, Texas
o Gwen M. Mooney, Jon Deitloff Funeral Centre, Cincinnati, Ohio
o Ronald P. Robertson, CCE, Waitt-Nelms Funeral Home, Morganville, New Jersey
o Jon L. Stephenson, Mount Olivet Cemetery, Fort Worth, Texas
The American Municipal Cemetery Council appointment to serve a one-year
term on the Board is Philip J. Carpenter, Grandview Roselawn Cemeteries,
Fort Collins, Colorado.
The International Memorialization Supply Association appointment to
serve a one-year term on the Board is Robert DeBeltrand, McCleskey
Mausoleums, Norcross, Georgia.
Past presidents elected to serve a one-year term on the Board are:
o Donald H. Eiesland, CCE, Inglewood Park Cemetery, Inglewood, California
o Robert A. Gordon Sr., CCFE, Eternal Hills Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home, Klamath Falls, Oregon
o Hugh Keatley, CCE, Service Corporation International, Beckley, West VirginiaFounded in 1887, the International Cemetery and Funeral Association is the only international trade association representing all segments of the cemetery, funeral and memorialization profession. Its membership is comprised of more than 6,000 cemeteries, funeral homes, memorial designers, crematories and related businesses worldwide
CAROL CAUNTER ELECTED PRESIDENT OF
INTERNATIONAL CEMETERY AND FUNERAL ASSOCIATION
RESTON, VA (March 21, 2003) - Carol Caunter of Tobias Funeral Home in
Dayton, Ohio, was elected president of the 2003-2004 International
Cemetery and Funeral Association (ICFA) at the ICFA's 2003 Annual
Convention & Exposition, March 10-13 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
"The International Cemetery and Funeral Association is about leadership,
professionalism, education and networking," Caunter said. "Our
association is 6,000 members strong and growing. With members from all
sectors of the profession--non-profit, for profit, religious and
municipal cemeteries, funeral homes, crematories, memorial retailers and
suppliers--the International Cemetery and Funeral Association can truly
be 'one voice.' One voice...to take an active role in influencing the
government's role in our profession's issues and advancing the interests
of consumers."
Before affiliating with Tobias Funeral Home in 2003, Caunter worked for
Service Corporation International. She was vice president of marketing
for SCI Canada Limited in Toronto, Canada, for two years and was then
promoted to managing director, marketing for North America in Houston,
Texas, where she was responsible for SCI's branding and marketing
strategies and their national and local affinity initiatives.
Prior to that, Caunter was vice president of marketing for Commemorative
Services of Ontario (known today as the Mount Pleasant Group), a
non-profit cemetery and funeral organization in Toronto, Canada. She has
12 years of marketing experience in the funeral, cemetery and cremation
profession and 12 years in the financial services industry.
Caunter has played a vital leadership role throughout her involvement
with the ICFA, serving as president-elect, vice president of education,
vice president of services and administration, vice president of
membership, secretary, board member and chair of the ICFA Marketing
Committee. In addition, she was program chair for the ICFA 2001
Convention & Exposition in Las Vegas, Nevada, and co-chair for the ICFA
1999 Sales Management & Marketing Conference.
Founded in 1887, the International Cemetery and Funeral Association is
the only international trade association representing all segments of
the cemetery, funeral and memorialization profession. Its membership is
comprised of more than 6,000 cemeteries, funeral homes, memorial
designers, crematories and related businesses worldwide.
In a message dated 3-26-2003 5:17:51 PM, lacorn@icfa.org writes:
DOWNEY ELECTED INTERNATIONAL CEMETERY AND FUNERAL ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT-ELECT
RESTON, VA (March 26, 2003) - Patrick R. Downey, CCE, vice president of
sales and marketing at Palm Mortuaries and Memorial Parks in Las Vegas,
Nevada, was elected president-elect of the International Cemetery and
Funeral Association (ICFA) during the ICFA's 2003 Convention &
Exposition, March 10-13 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Before joining Palm Mortuary and Memorial Parks in 2001, Downey served
as president of Genesis SMS--a full-service sales and marketing
consulting firm specializing in the cemetery and funeral industry.
Previously, he was vice president of marketing and a regional vice
president of sales for Carriage Services in Houston, Texas, and vice
president of sales and marketing for Memorial Park Inc. of Memphis,
Tennessee.
Downey is a 24-year member of the ICFA and is currently co-chair of the
2004 Sales Management and Marketing Conference. He has played an active
role in the association, serving as vice president of the ICFA's
Products and Services Steering Committee, vice president of the
Membership Steering Committee, vice president of the Educational
Steering Committee, member of the board of directors and co-chair of the
1998 ICFA Annual Convention. From 1995 to 2000, Downey was chancellor of
the ICFA University, an intensive annual cemetery and funeral management
school. He is a frequent speaker at ICFA conferences.
In recognition of his extensive management experience and skills, Downey
holds a certified cemetery executive (CCE) designation.
For More Information, Please Contact:
Linda Budzinski
1-800-645-7700
lacorn@icfa.org
INTERNATIONAL CEMETERY AND FUNERAL ASSOCIATION
PRESENTS CERTIFICATION AWARDS
RESTON, VA (March 26, 2003) - The International Cemetery and Funeral
Association (ICFA) presented its executive certification awards during
its Annual Convention & Exposition, March 10-13, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Certified Cemetery Executive (CCE) designations were awarded to:
o Dale J. Fiore, CCE, Evergreen Cemetery and Crematory, New Haven, Connecticut
o Jerry Jackson, CCE, Mount Hope Cemetery, Webb City, Missouri
o Alan J. MacKinnon, CCE, The Gardens at Gethsemane, Boston, Massachusetts
o Terrance Mulcare, CCE, Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Kansas City, Kansas
o Gregory M. Vogele, CCE, Chippiannock Cemetery and Crematory, Rock Island, Illinois
Certified Cemetery Funeral Executive (CCFE) designations were awarded to:
o Vincent L. Faccinto, CCFE, Generations Management Inc., Cookeville, Tennessee
o George A. Malesich, CCFE, Mount Olivet Cemetery, Wheat Ridge, Colorado
o Michael R. Uselton, CCFE, SCI Funeral Services of Florida Inc., Bradenton, Florida
The ICFA Certification Program recognizes individuals who have
demonstrated a high degree of competence and a high level of management
experience and skills in the cemetery and funeral industry. To date,
only 18 persons have been awarded the CCFE designation, 201 persons have
been awarded the CCE designation, and one person has been awarded the
CFuE designation.
All three certifications are intended to raise the standards of those
engaged in cemetery and funeral management, to encourage individuals to
participate in a program of continuing education and development, and to
encourage self-assessment through guidelines for achievement. The
International Cemetery and Funeral Association designation program also
assists in identifying people with expansive knowledge of the principles
and practices of cemetery and funeral management, of related disciplines
and of laws governing the industry.
In a message dated 3-26-2003 5:22:54 PM, lacorn@icfa.org writes:
INTERNATIONAL CEMETERY AND FUNERAL ASSOCIATION
HONORS 25-YEAR MEMBERS
RESTON, VA (March 26, 2003) - The International Cemetery and Funeral
Association (ICFA) presented its Quarter Century Club awards honoring
those who have belonged to the association for 25 years, during its
Annual Convention & Exposition, March 10-13, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The Quarter Century award recipients are:
o Robert O. Kirby, Bureau of Cemeteries, Norfolk, Virginia
o James B. Laidler, Bunkers Memory Gardens Cemetery, Las Vegas, Nevada
o Sharon F. McDonough, Fairlawn Burial Park and The Heritage Funeral Home, Hutchinson, Kansas
o Ron Mowry, Angelus-Rosedale Inc., Los Angeles, California
o David J. Regina, Forest Lawn Gardens, McMurray, Pennsylvania
o David J. Shipper, Futura Group, Ewing, New Jersey
o Paul R. Vogel Sr., Calumet Park Cemetery, Merrillville, Indiana
In a message dated 3-26-2003 5:27:15 PM, lacorn@icfa.org writes:
INTERNATIONAL CEMETERY AND FUNERAL ASSOCIATION
WOMEN'S FORUM AWARDS UNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIPS
RESTON, VA (March 26, 2003) - The International Cemetery and Funeral
Association (ICFA) Women's Forum awarded two $1,500 scholarships to the
ICFA University during the Annual Convention & Exposition, March 10-13,
in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The 2003 scholarship recipients are:
o Sherri L. Baca, chief financial officer, assistant director, Roselawn
Cemetery and Funeral Home, Pueblo, Colorado
o Leah A. O'Leary, marketing coordinator, Vertin Company/Joseph Vertin
and Sons Funeral Home, Breckenridge, Minnesota
"What a wonderful opportunity for fellow co-chair Linda Darby-Sempsrott
and I to announce two new scholarship recipients again this year," said
Del Doleman, co-chair of the Women's Forum. "Both recipients were
extremely excited to receive this scholastic support and are looking
forward to furthering their education through the ICFA University."
The International Cemetery and Funeral Association's Women's Forum is
able to provide these scholarships through the generous support of the
eight sponsors:
o American Cemetery Supplies
o BLP Bronze International
o Crematory Manufacturing and Service
o Doric Products
o Ferno-Washington
o Granit-Bronz--Cold Spring Memorial Group Inc.
o Matthews International Corp.
o Trigard/Greenwood Plastics
The ICFA University is the only school of its kind for funeral and
cemetery professionals. Set on the historic campus of the University of
Memphis, ICFAU brings together practitioners from throughout the nation
for four and a half days of intensive instruction by top experts in each
discipline of the death care industry.
Founded in 1887, the International Cemetery and Funeral Association is
the only international trade association representing all segments of
the cemetery, funeral and memorialization profession. Its membership is
comprised of more than 6,000 cemeteries, funeral homes, memorial
designers, crematories and related businesses worldwide.
In a message dated 3-29-2003 10:13:56 PM, CapallDubh writes:
New military mortuary being built
DELAWARE: Dover Air Force Base facility will be state-of-the-art and larger.
Construction should be completed by June, 2003 at Dover Air Force Base,
Dover, Delaware's new $20 million mortuary, and Army Corps of Engineers
officials led a tour through the facility in March to reveal some of the
enhancements it will provide for the military's largest such operation.
As they steered guests through what will be hospital-quality radiology
units, autopsy and embalming facilities, Sadly, workers at the old Charles C.
Carson Center for Mortuary Affairs nearby were preparing to receive more
remains from the war in Iraq.
Since the beginning of the Iraq War Dover's older and present mortuary has received the remains
of 24 troops - 18 Marines and Army soldiers killed in the war in Iraq and
six Air Force troops killed in a helicopter crash during a mission to bring
medical aid to children in Afghanistan. "If you have any idea of how discombobulated the
current building is, you know the process is very inefficient," said Tom
Lavender of the Army Corps of Engineers, he is overseeing the project.
The present mortuary has been pieced together since the Vietnam
War. "We've taken lessons learned from that building ... and we will have
a very, very efficient flow through this building," The new building will
open in October - and the $10 million of new equipment it will contain -
will streamline the mortuary staff's ability to prepareremains for return to
families and loved ones.
More remains are expected Dover is designated to receive all casualties from the war.
"My hope is when I get done with this building, it remains empty forever," he said.
But when casualties occur, Kuper said, families can rest assured the remains
of their loved one will be treated with dignity and honor. "These are our
brothers and sisters at arms," Kuper said. "They have given the ultimate
sacrifice. ... And you want them treated exactly the best. You want to
do it better, quicker, faster and you want to get them home with the utmost
respect.
READ MORE http://www.courierpostonline.com/iraqwar/m032403x.htm
In a message dated 3-10-2003 1:00:19 PM, Mike in Boston writes:
http://www.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,4057,6103691^13762,00.html
NEWS.com.au | Morgue burns wrong body (March 10, 2003)
Morgue burns wrong body
March 10, 2003
THE daughters of a Swedish woman mistakenly cremated by a morgue have sued the city that oversees the facility.
"We have filed charges against the local county council claiming 500,000 kronor ($97,600) in damages to teach them that you don't treat people in this way and to make sure it doesn't happen again," Monika Andersson told Swedish Radio.
The body of Andersson's mother was mistaken in April 2001 for another woman whose family had requested cremation at the morgue run by the city of Joenkoeping, 328 km south ofStockholm.
Andersson's mother and another dead woman were on the same platform because of a shortage of space.
A city spokesman was unavailable for comment.
Andersson said her mother didn't want to be cremated for religious reasons.
"The mistake was discovered when the other woman was to be buried and it was the wrong corpse in the coffin," Bodil Eriksson, the other daughter, said.
In a message dated 3-10-2003 1:03:44 PM, Mike in Boston writes:
Sun Mar 9, 8:21 AM ET
CHICAGO - For years, Chicago police officers have complained about one particular part of the job: transporting dead bodies to the morgue.
Now, after pressure from the police union, the city has agreed to find a private firm to take over the task. The city plans to open bids March 31 for any contractors interested in the business. Among the requirements, the contractor must be able to carry 7,000 dead bodies with a minimum of six vans or hearses ready at all times. Police spokesman David Bayless said not only do officers dislike the duty, it takes time away from policing the streets. "Each time they move a body, they scrub down the vehicle, which takes time," he said. The Fraternal Order of Police has said it may seek extra pay for officers at a hearing scheduled for April 8 if the practice continues.
NFDA ENews Alert
March 10, 2003
Volume 4, Issue 7
Check out NFDA's New Website Updates!
NFDA has added a series of updates to its website. They are designed to improve your business capabilities, and keep you abreast of issues that impact the profession.
Check out all of these new links "For the Life of Your Business"!:
The World Crisis Center
http://www.nfda.org/worldcrisis.php
A new addition to the "Members Only" section of the NFDA Website, this section provides useful information in these times of world unrest.
Maximize your Benefits
http://www.nfda.org/maximize.php
Located in the "Members Only" section of nfda.org, this section details your membership benefits, and how you can best take advantage of them.
Online Classifieds
http://www.nfda.org/classifieds
This link can be reached through the Professional Resources section on the nfda.org home page. It provides information on employment and real estate, as well as funeral service vehicles. Ads in the following categories can be placed FREE OF CHARGE by NFDA members:
Employment / Careers
Real Estate / Funeral Homes
Funeral Service Vehicles</ul>
Subscribe to The Director Online
http://www.nfda.org/directorSubscribe.php
Subscriptions to NFDA's official publication - the premier magazine of the funeral service profession - are now available through nfda.org.
FaxBack Documents Now Available Online
http://www.nfda.org/page.php?pID=316
All NFDA FaxBack documents are now available in PDF format. Save the documents to your computer and use them again and again!
NFDA ENews Alerts are copyrighted electronic publications of the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) and the information provided therein is one of many valuable services to its paid members.
Copyright ©2002 National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA)
In a message dated 3-11-2003 9:52:44 AM, Jennifer in Massachusetts writes:
Effective April 1, 2003, the burial permit fee for Boston, will increase to $20.00. Checks or money orders should be made out to the Boston Public Health Commission.
In a message dated 3-27-2003 10:25:53 AM, keefsds@attbi.com writes:
Hi John,
Below are the web site pictures of this year 2003 Rhode Island Funeral
Directors Dinner Instillation.
Picture taken by Freddy Almeida & myself.
www.KeeProducts.com or http://www.keeproducts.com/
"Click above link then click RIFDA Dinner button lower left on web home page"
There are a lot of pictures this year, I would suggest just adding the above link under pictures on you web site. Question, suggestion or if you need something else please call.
As in past years thanks again,
We all enjoy you site.
Everett Manchester
`````````````````````````````````````
KEE Distributors & Sales, Inc
Office: 1-800-982-0395
Fax: 508-676-7691
E-Mail: keefsds@attbi.com
Web Site: www.KeeProducts.com
In a message dated 3/13/03 2:20:35 PM, sahd@generatesales.com writes:
News Release
Date March 13, 2003
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Ed Irwin, President, Cremation Technologies, Inc.
toll free: 1-877-874-5551
email: edirwin@cremationtechnologies.com
url: www.cremationtechnologies.com
Cremation Technologies, Inc. Names Distributor Relations Manager
Cremation Technologies, Inc. (CTI), Elephant Butte, NM, has appointed a distributor relations manager to assist the company's Infinity Memorial Systems™ resellers with marketing and sales development in their assigned territories
David Sahd brings a diverse background in business-to-business sales and marketing management to the CTI distributor program. His experience includes management positions for two Fortune 500 firms and strategic consulting for hundreds of companies as president of Cedar Marketing Group, Inc., a marketing agency in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Sahd will be responsible for distributor program elements such as recruitment, training, market planning, project proposals, and strategic partnerships. "Opportunities to work for companies with patented solutions to demonstrated needs in the market are rare," said Sahd. "I look forward to helping CTI and it distributors to promote Infinity Memorial Systems™ to the churches, organizations and industry operators who will benefit from this new technology."
In addition to occupying less space than traditional columbaria, Infinity Memorial Systems™ are modular and mobile. The memorial walls can be custom manufactured in almost any size or shape and can be placed outdoors or inside.
Infinity Urns™, an integral part of the systems, are imperious to damage from fires, floods and other disasters. This safety feature, in conjunction with the virtually maintenance-free memorial walls, makes Infinity Memorial Systems™ attractive to non-professional columbarium operators such as churches and nonprofit organizations that also require flexibility for expansion and relocation.
The cost of building a columbarium, and the end cost to consumers is dramatically less expensive as compared to the cost of the urns and niches used in traditional columbaria.
For more information about the availability of Infinity Memorial Systems™ distributor territories, contact David Sahd toll free at 877-874-5551 or by email at CTI@gneratesales.com.
In a message dated 4/5/2003 9:09:48 PM, Mike Flynn in Boston, MA writes:
WEST COVINA, California - Seven years after he was cremated, a Southern California man's ashes were discovered in a container in the hair dye section at a local Kmart.El Monte police recovered the container in November and spent five months looking for loved ones to claim Jose Rivera, reportedly of Maywood, but they have had little luck.
Now they are turning his remains over to the Los Angeles County coroner's office.
"We try our best to find families. We have found families," said coroner supervisor Deborah Peterson.
If no one claims Rivera, the county will hold his remains for three years and then bury his ashes in a common grave in East Los Angeles, she said.
Officials say they don't know how the remains ended up in the store. Employees discovered the container and turned it over to police.
"It's like the weirdest thing I ever heard," said Detective Randy Lovelace, who handled the case.
Rivera was cremated on May 9, 1996. Mortuary officials said the remains were given to his wife, Yolanda. Police have been unable to locate her.
Lovelace said he sent letters to potential relatives but has yet to receive a reply.
Authorities say Rivera's case isn't unusual.
Peterson said her office frequently receives abandoned cremated remains.
"We will accept them. We want to make sure they're properly disposed," she said.
Some remains come from the police and the public. Others are turned over when mortuaries are sold. Containers have even been found in garbage cans or in the basement of an old theater, she said.
In a message dated 4/4/2003 12:02:39 AM, Mike Flynn Massachusetts writes:
TIVERTON -- It was 1991 when then-72-year-old Virginia Cecilia was planning for her funeral.
"I was one of those people who thought I was going to paradise, but I guess I was wrong," Cecilia said.
Cecilia claims she gave L.O. Paradis Funeral Home Director Rachel M. Deschene-Costa $4,500 to pay for her future funeral services. Now, 12 years later, after reading a Herald News article about Deschene-Costa being forced to surrender her now-expired funeral director's license, Cecilia said she became curious and decided to check on the funds.
What she found nearly gave her a heart attack, she said.
Although she was told all of the $4,500 was put into the credit union account, Cecilia said the bank told her Tuesday that only $2,000 was in the account.
Deschene-Costa surrendered her license recently after being found in violation of three rules prescribed by the Massachusetts Division of Professional Licensure.
She violated board regulations by failing to account for pre-need funeral money entrusted to her, failing to produce adequate documentation of pre-need contracts and practicing as a funeral director for three years while her license to do so was expired.
Cecilia, who lives alone and said she doesn't have many family members, said at least $2,500 was missing from the account according to her documents. But, she added, there should have been even more money in the account because of interest that should have accumulated over the past 12 years.
Deschene-Costa "was very sweet to me when I set this up," Cecilia said. "This is just a terrible, terrible thing to do."
Cecilia said she contacted the Massachusetts attorney general's office to report what she had found, but has yet to hear back from the office.
Cecilia is one of roughly 30 people who have issued complaints to the attorney general's office about Deschene-Costa and the L.O. Paradis Funeral Home.
Sarah Nathan, a spokeswoman for the attorney general's office said the attorney general is "actively seeking out consumers who have pre-paid funeral services with L.O. Paradis Funeral Home."
She asked anyone who had such a contract with the funeral home to call the office at 508-990-9700, Ext. 103 or 106.
She could not, however, comment on whether any criminal charges would be lodged against Deschene-Costa.
Cecilia said she, too, believes she is one of many who may have been deceived by Deschene-Costa.
"I'm sure I'm not the only one," Cecilia said. "I just hope I don't die in the next few days because I won't be taken care of."
Other former customers of the Pleasant Street funeral home have also been anonymously sending e-mails to The Herald News asking for ways to get their money or personal items back from the funeral home, which has apparently closed down.
One woman said she has been waiting three years to get "some family documents" back from the funeral home, including her father's naval discharge papers.
Phone calls placed to the funeral home were intercepted by an answering service. One such call was returned by a man named Manny, who said he was from the funeral home. He would not offer any comment on the situation.
In a message dated 4/4/2003 6:11:57 PM, Feddie in Massachusetts writes:
Dr. George Kury, 75, Asst. Medical Examiner Comm. of Mass
Wednesday, April 2, 2003 11:47:17 A
Brookline couple's deaths called murder-suicide Former restaurateur had Parkinson's disease
Once the picture of elegance greeting customers at Cafe Budapest, her upper-crust Boston restaurant, in recent years Livia Hedda Rev-Kury had fallen ill, and spent most of her days bed-ridden, her body ravaged by Parkinson's disease.
Monday morning, Rev-Kury, 79, was found dead in her Brookline home alongside her husband, George Kury, 75, an assistant state medical examiner, and yesterday authorities said it appeared Kury had strangled his wife, then killed himself, ending two lives that had passed through concentration camps, medical schools, and Boston's high society.
William R. Keating, the Norfolk district attorney, said officials were still waiting for results of toxicology tests, which could take several weeks, to determine how Kury killed himself.
Kury left behind a note that, ''while not explicit, is not inconsistent with Kury having caused his wife's death,'' according to a statement issued by Keating's office yesterday. The office would not elaborate.
The couple, both immigrants from Hungary who still had tattoos on their wrists from Holocaust camps, were found in their Longwood Avenue home after friends became concerned about their well-being, authorities said.
There were no signs of forced entry and no obvious signs of violence.
The couple had at least one child, Charles, who could not be reached yesterday.
Recent records show that, despite his age, Kury apparently had no intention of retiring from his post as a medical examiner working out of Cape Cod. Last month, he notified the state Board of Registration in Medicine that he wanted to renew his medical license for another two years, records show.
Like her husband, Rev-Kury, who was better known by her middle name Hedda, was also a pathologist, but had let her medical license lapse in 2001, records show. Rev-Kury was a 1951 graduate of the University of Budapest Medical School; Kury graduated from there three years later.
Dr. Edward McDonough, from the Connecticut medical examiner's office, traveled to Boston yesterday to perform autopsies on the couple, as is policy when the deceased is an employee of the state medical examiner's office.
Officials in the office declined to comment yesterday. ''It's a very difficult time for a lot of his co-workers here,'' said John Cronin, the office's chief administrative officer. Kury had worked as a pathologist for the state since 1993, handling cases mostly in Worcester and Barnstable counties.
''He was a very kind and good person, and I always loved working with him,'' said Melissa Christie, who used to work with Kury in the medical examiner's office.
''He wasn't involved in the political agenda of that office. He enjoyed his work, and he was good at it. He was very thorough.''
Christie said she was told by another medical examiner that the Cape office where Kury worked had been closed just last week. He was to be reassigned to the Boston office on Monday.
Kury talked little about his life growing up in Hungary, but Christie said she knew that he had a substantial scar on his chest, the result of being shot, either while being held captive or trying to escape.
At the now-defunct Cafe Budapest in the basement of the Copley Square Hotel, Rev-Kury would stand in the evenings at the foot of the red carpeted stairs leading to the restaurant, greeting customers in a long gown, long white gloves, and sparkling jewelry. On her wrist was a green tattoo: A-16540.
Despite the hard work involved with running a restaurant, she delighted in the job, and it also had a distinct advantage: ''My husband likes the restaurant conventions better than the medical ones,'' she once said in an interview.
She would often practice medicine for a few hours out of her Peabody office, then slip over to the restaurant, where she would order provisions over the phone, saying in her accented voice: ''I want an order. Romaine lettuce, one case. Large onions, one case.''
A close friend and colleague of Nobel laureate Albert Szent-Gyorgyi, the discoverer of vitamin C, Rev-Kury took over the restaurant from her sister, Edith, when she died in 1988. It closed three years ago.
In a message dated 3/17/2003 7:36:34 AM, ChrKuckelk@aol.com writes:
Hi John, in the meantime I´ve a problem. I teach embalming for the Geman Funerall Direktor Ass. A class of 8 embalmers here are looking for a place in the states to practice this year. Is there a chance to work in a funeralhome or institute?? They normaly go to foreign states in groups of 2 students for 3-4 weeks to do about 50 bodys. If there is a chance - I´ll come over first to make the contact! Would be nice to get a response. ChrKuckelk@aol.com
In a message dated 3/17/2003 10:46:45 AM, Barbara@Durham-cvb.com writes:
Hello,
I just wanted to check with you to see if I can help you locate a site for any meetings you may be having in Durham, NC or the Research Triangle Park area.
Durham is home to Duke and North Carolina Central universities
This is a free service offered by the bureau in order to help make your planning a little easier. Please forward any bid packet(s) for your meetings and conferences, I would like the opportunity to bid.
If you would like a copy of our Meeting Planners Guide, I will be happy to mail one to you as well.
Here's a chance for you to check on our "Hot Meeting Dates" for any upcoming meetings you may be planning.
http://www.durham-nc.com/planners/meetings_events/hot_dates.php
Take care,
Barbara
Barbara Bick, Convention Sales Manager
Durham Convention & Visitors Bureau
101 East Morgan Street, Durham, NC 27701
Direct Phone: (919) 680-8314 / Toll-Free: (800) 446-8604
Fax: (919) 683-9555
http://www.durham-nc.com
In a message dated 3/16/2003 7:38:59 PM, UndergroundHumor writes:
NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MEDIA CONTACT: Daniel Hopkins
EMAIL: UndergroundHumor@aol.com
Phone: 203.247.5047
CasketFurniture.com Products Now Available on UndergroundHumor.com!
WESTPORT, CT -- UndergroundHumor.com, the subterranean Web site where death care professionals and others can "shop till they drop" for books, movies, t-shirts & more of a morbidly amusing nature, recently introduced several products for your amusement and enjoyment by CasketFurniture.com. CasketFurniture.com has been featured in "People" magazine and on TV's "Ripley's Believe It Or Not".
The following CasketFurniture.com products are now available in our "& MORE" store:
* CASKET BUSINESS CARD HOLDER
Hand-crafted from solid birch with white-satin bedding, this business card holder is a perfect conversation item for any office. Hand-rubbed lacquer finish. Made with birch wood. Dimensions are 12" x 5" x 4". Retail price is $199.00.
http://www.undergroundhumor.com/more/casket_business_card_holder.htm
* COFFIN DISPLAY CABINET
This distressed, solid pine coffin with slide out shelving gives you the chance to display different sizes objects...including yourself! Dimensions are 75.5" x 25.5" x 12". Custom orders are available for this item. Retail price is $699.00. This product qualifies for FREE SHIPPING in North America!
http://www.undergroundhumor.com/more/coffin_display_cabinet.htm
* COFFIN HUMIDOR
Crisp, morbid moulding, to encase your finest cigars. Ebonized cedar and birch. Hand-rubbed lacquer finish. Dimensions are 16" x 10" x 6". Retail price is $995.00. This product qualifies for FREE SHIPPING in North America!
http://www.undergroundhumor.com/more/coffin_humidor.htm
* COFFIN MIRROR (Full Length)
Add a morbidly amusing touch to your bedroom, some other room in your home or in your funeral home. Glass not included. Made with Aromatic Cedar. Dimensions are 72" x 24" x 3/4". Retail price is $299.00. This product qualifies for FREE SHIPPING in North America!
http://www.undergroundhumor.com/more/coffin_mirror.htm
* COFFIN PENCIL CASE
Sharpen up your desktop with this sleek display pencil case. Made of Padauk and Acacia. Hand-rubbed lacquer finish. Dimensions are 8" x 3" x 2". Retail price is $99.95.
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* COFFIN PHONE BOOTH
Talk till you drop with this innovative communications portal. Shown in Maple with a natural stain. Coffin has a shallow cavity. Dimensions are 78" x 25" x 16". Custom orders are available for this item. Retail price is $2236.00...YOU SAVE 20%! This product qualifies for FREE SHIPPING in North America!
http://www.undergroundhumor.com/more/coffin_phone_booth.htm
UndergroundHumor.com Introduces Several New Items to Web Site, Including Tombstone Soaps!
WESTPORT, CT -- UndergroundHumor.com, the subterranean Web site where death care professionals and others can "shop till they drop" for books, movies, t-shirts & more of a morbidly amusing nature, recently introduced several products for your amusement and enjoyment.
NEW IN OUR "& MORE" STORE
* COFFIN SOAPS (wrapped in cellophane)
Only $2.95 each!
The fragrance of "Coffin Maker's Workshop", these 3.0 ounce sandalwood-scented soaps arrive wrapped in cellophane for extra freshness. The soaps are shaped like coffins and available in black and brown.
http://www.undergroundhumor.com/more/coffin_soaps_cellophane.htm
* TOMBSTONE SOAP (4.0 oz)
Only $4.95 each!
The fragrance of "Freshly Mowed Cemetery", these 4.0 ounce grass-scented soaps arrive wrapped in cellophane for extra freshness. The soaps are shaped like tombstones and available in white.
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* TOMBSTONE SOAP (5.5 oz)
Only $5.95 each!
The fragrance of "Freshly Mowed Cemetery", these 5.5 ounce grass-scented soaps arrive wrapped in cellophane for extra freshness. The soaps are shaped like tombstones and available in white.
http://www.undergroundhumor.com/more/tombstone_soap_large.htm
NEW IN OUR "BOOKSTORE"
* Grave Matters: A Curious Collection of 500 Actual Epitaphs (Paperback) by E. R. Shushan
Only $15.00!
People have wanted to have the last word from the beginning of time--and they've been writing their own for almost as long. Their wise, witty and often bizarre last messages have now been immortalized in Grave Matters, this wonderfully entertaining collection of epitaphs taken from headstones, church records and historical accounts in the United States and the British Isles. The epitaphs in Grave Matters span four centuries, and make memorable use of poetry, epigrams and surprising turns of phrase to make parting comments that range from wry...to the satisfied...to the short and sweet.
http://www.undergroundhumor.com/books/grave_matters.htm
* The Carnivorous Carnival (Children's Hardcover) by Lemony Snicket (Ages 9-12)
Only $8.79...YOU SAVE 20%!
The ninth and newest book in the "A Series of Unfortunate Events" series (with 4 more due) follows the adventures of the three plucky Baudelaire orphans who overcome adversity to fend off the evil Count Olaf. The series of books, favorites among kids ages 8 to 14, is described as "pop Gothic" and "gleefully morbid."
http://www.undergroundhumor.com/books/carnivorous_carnival.htm
UndergroundHumor.com accepts checks, money orders and credit card charges through PayPal, the acclaimed online e-payment system. A money-back guarantee applies to all purchases. For further information, visit www.UndergroundHumor.com.
In a message dated 3/7/03 8:05:03 AM, msprozac@earthlink.net writes:
Hello,
I found your website and wanted to share why I started my business
and what it is we do. I would like to first start off by explaining why
it's called Death Becomes You. I have attended a funeral for a poorly
embalmed person my mother, and a well done embalming, my father. My dad
actually looked better in death than I ever remember him looking alive. The
embalmer took such care with him that I remember saying to him "Death
Becomes You". I only wish my memories of my mother were as wonderful.
I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1999 and was told to prepare
myself for an early death. When I went to do my pre-need I found that most
funeral directors would not discuss the embalming process with me. That
frustrated me as I felt as if it was some big secret. I felt as a consumer
that I should have some understanding of what was going to happen to me
when I died. Amazingly I am a four year survivor with advanced breast
cancer. I have mets to the bones only. I decided that if I was curious
about death and dying maybe others were, so I used the Internet, found
resources and built my website.
I admit my website is not for everybody, but if you will read my
guestbook I have the support of people in the funeral industry. And yes my
site does use some humor which some might find deadly (pun intended). I
specialize in embalming videos, autopsy videos, books and collectibles and
the purpose of the site is not to dog the funeral industry (except for
David Sconce who gives the industry a bad name), it's to de-mystify dying.
I have had several thank yous from folks who are considering a career
change, my site has helped them to make choices. I also hear from
paramedics and doctors who find the videos invaluable in many cases. And
probably the best thing about my site is that I donate 25% of my profit to
breast cancer research.
I would appreciate it if you would pass my information along. I am not
here to demean an industry, but I am here to provide factual information.
Death is a part of life, we should not fear it and we should not hide from
it.
My website address is http://bluelips.com/?source=fsp
Thank you for allowing me to introduce myself and my company.
Regards,
Ms. Toni
In a message dated 3/25/2003 11:38:44 AM, Dennis in New Jersey writes:
Do you know that the 21 gun salute stands for the sum of the numbers in the year 1776?
Have you ever noticed the ceremonial honor guard pays meticulous attention to correctly folding the American flag 13 times?
You probably thought it was to symbolize the original 13 colonies, but we learn something new every day!
To see how the flag is folded, please go to http://www.usflag.org/fold.flag.html
The 1st fold of our flag is a symbol of life.
The 2nd fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life.
The 3rd fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing our ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world.
The 4th fold represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His divine guidance.
The 5th fold is a tribute to our country, for in the words of Stephen Decaur "Our Country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong."
The 6th fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.
The 7th fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that we protect our country and our flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of our republic.
The 8th fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day.
The 9th fold is a tribute to womanhood, and mothers. For it has been through their faith, their love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great have been molded.
The 10th fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since they were first born.
The 11th fold represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon and glorifies in the Hebrews' eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
The 12th fold represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in the Christians' eyes, God the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit.
The 13th fold, or when the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding us of our nation's motto, "In God We Trust."
After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the Sailors and Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones, who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights, privileges and freedoms we enjoy today.
There are some traditions and ways of doing things that have deep meaning.
In the future, you'll see flags folded and now you will know why.
Share this with your children and all others who love the symbol of Liberty and Freedom."
In a message dated 3/27/03 5:45:45 PM, info@abbottandhast.com writes:
Monterey, California
Abbott & Hast Publications, the publisher of Mortuary Management
monthly magazine and Funeral Monitor weekly newsletter, has
introduced a new method for funeral directors to declare their
independence.
Initially, Abbott & Hast Publications offered an elegant, cast-metal
wall plaque to tastefully reassure customers about proprietorship by
stating "WE ARE PROUD TO BE PRIVATELY OWNED -- DEDICATED TO THE CARE
OF THOSE WE SERVE." The response was overwhelming. Following
discussions with funeral directors, many requested a version that
stated "FAMILY OWNED," so a plaque with that wording is now being
offered as well. Typically placed outside near the entrance or in
the lobby, the wall plaques measure 10" wide by 5" high and include
brass mounting screws, clearly visible within a 15-foot area.
The company offers another wall plaque that states "THANK YOU -- FOR
NOT USING PAGERS AND PHONES." They also offer a self-standing desk
plaque measures 10 1/4" wide by 2 1/2" high, displaying the message
"UNLESS PRIOR ARRANGEMENTS ARE MADE -- PAYMENT IS EXPECTED BEFORE
SERVICES." All of the plaques are cast in aluminum with gold-colored
letters and textured brown background.
The plaques are priced at $59 each, which includes shipping, or can
be purchased as a set of any three for the discounted price of $149.
Orders can be placed through the Web at www.mortuarymanagement.com or
by calling (800) 453-1199. For more information, call or write to
In a message dated 3-26-2003 10:03:35 PM, Ron in California writes:
Hi John: Read the input on NFDA's request regarding the "timely" distribution of GPLs. It is my "understanding", clearly not personal knowledge, that funeral director's have been accused by the AARP "trained" GPL spies for the FTC ofNOT distributing the GPL in a timely fashion.
There is a clear difference between not having a GPL to distribute and having one to give, yet being accused of not providing it. Unless changed, it MUST be provided when anyone makes an in-person any inquiry regarding TERMS, PRICES OR CONDITIONS. That means if a "shopper" asks, "Is it possible to have a funeral on Saturday" you better give a GPL before saying, "Yes". If that same "shopper" asked, "Are you open on Saturday" you can reply without a GPL...as I understand the rule.
So, the graying "trained" shopper asks, "Are you open on Saturday" with the intent to mean "have a funeral on Saturday", not using the exact words and gigs the FD on their report.
Have you ever utilized Forethought at your firm? We did briefly, no employees of ours were agents. Recently, we serviced a mother-made Forethought Plan and the son felt we were not entitled to any payment (eight years later) beyond the "Guaranteed Funeral and Merchandise Price" shown on the Forethought breakdown!! The value of the plan was greater than our at-need charges; the son was entitled to receive a refund of $420--he got $570--and is demanding we pay him $340 more or he'll sue for punitive damages for pain and suffering!! Isn't it fun being in the funeral biz!!
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In a message dated 3-31-2003 5:53:17 PM, Steve in Arizona writes:
"ARE YOU ENJOYING YOUR DASH"
When you read the dates on a grave stone
1915 - 2003
That dash represents a lifetime, so live it up!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a message dated 3-7-2003 1:26:21 AM, Steve in Arizona writes:
Dear John,
In regards to the 30 Mass. funeral homes owned in full or part by SCI, you wonder why they don't stand up and take pride in their ownership. On their website (www.sci-corp.com) they state, "We are proud to be associated with some of the finest funeral service firms, cemeteries and crematoria in the world". I guess this doesn't apply to these 30 firms.
Just wondering,
Steve in AZ
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a message dated 4/6/2003 4:32:38 PM, Nicholas in the United Kingdom writes:
Dear Sir/Madam
We operate UK Funerals On-line www.uk-funerals.co.uk and was wondering if you might consider linking to our site. We would happy to supply a link back to your own web site.
Kind Regards
Nicholas Ille
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a message dated 3/15/2003 9:46:16 AM, LONI in TEXAS writes:
Sad But True
In light of the many perversions and jokes we send along to one another for a laugh, this is a little different:
This joke today is not intended to be a joke, it's not intended to be funny, it's intended to get you thinking.
*Billy Graham's daughter was interviewed on the Early Show and Jane Clayson asked her "How could God let something like this happen?" ( regarding the attacks on Sept. 11 ).
Anne Graham gave an extremely profound and insightful response. She said "I believe God is deeply saddened by this, just as we are, but for years we've been telling God to get out of our schools, to get out of our government and to get out of our lives. And being the gentleman He is, I believe He has calmly backed out. How can we expect God to give us His blessing and His protection if we demand He leave us alone?"
In light of recent events ... terrorists attack, school shootings, etc. I think it started when Madeleine Murray O'Hare (she was murdered, her body found recently) complained she didn't want prayer in our schools. We said OK.
Then someone said you better not read the Bible in school ... the Bible says thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not steal, and love your neighbor as yourself.
And we said OK.
Then Dr. Benjamin Spock said we shouldn't spank our children when they misbehave because their little personalities would be warped and we might damage their self-esteem (Dr. Spock's son committed suicide). We said an expert should know what he's talking about. And we said OK.
Then someone said teachers and principals better not discipline our children when they misbehave. The school administrators said no faculty member in this school better touch a student when they misbehave because we don't want any bad publicity, and we surely don't want to be sued (there's a big difference! between disciplining, touching, beating, smacking, humiliating, kicking,etc.). And we said OK.
Then someone said, let's let our daughters have abortions if they want, and they won't even have to tell their parents. And we said OK.
Then some wise school board member said, since boys will be boys and they're going to do it anyway, let's give our sons all the condoms they want so they can have all the fun they desire, and we won't have to tell their parents they got them at school. And we said OK.
Then some of our top elected officials said it doesn't matter what we do in private as long as we do our jobs. Agreeing with them, we said it doesn't matter to me what anyone, including the President, does in private as long as I have a job and the economy is good.
Then someone said let's print magazines with pictures of nude women and call it wholesome, down-to-earth appreciation for the beauty of the female body. And we said OK.
And then someone else took that appreciation a step further and published pictures of nude children and then further again by making them available on the Internet. And we said OK, they're entitled to free speech.
Then the entertainment industry said, let's make TV shows and movies that promote profanity, violence, and illicit sex. Let's record music that encourages rape, drugs, murder, suicide, and satanic themes. And we said it's just entertainment, it has no adverse effect, nobody takes it seriously anyway, so go right ahead.
Now we're asking ourselves why our children have no conscience, why they don't know right from wrong, and why it doesn't bother them to kill strangers, their classmates, and themselves.
Probably, if we think about it long and hard enough, we can figure it out. I think it has a great deal to do with "WE REAP WHAT WE SOW."
Funny how simple it is for people to trash God and then wonder why the world's going to hell. Funny how we believe what the newspapers say, but question what the! Bible says.
Funny how you can send 'jokes' through e-mail and they spread like wildfire, but when you start sending messages regarding the Lord, people think twice about sharing.
Funny how lewd, crude, vulgar and obscene articles pass freely through cyberspace, but public discussion of God is suppressed in the school and workplace.
Are you laughing?
Funny how when you forward this message, you will not send it to many on your address list because you're not sure what they believe, or what they WILL think of you for sending it. Funny how we can be more worried about what other people think of us than what God thinks of us.
Pass it on if you think it has merit. If not then just discard it... no one will know you did. But, if you discard this thought process, don't sit back and complain.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a message dated 3/27/2003 6:14:02 PM, Mike in Florida writes:
on the lighter side
PUT THE CALL ON HOLD! Don't put the telephone down on the desk.
A lady's husband dies. She heads to the funeral home to make
arrangements. She's emphatic that the arrangements must be done with
elegance, and attention to detail. "For example," she tells the funeral
director, "I want no wooden chairs. Only padded ones. All the comforts
possible to be extended to the mourners. Have the air conditioning set
to a perfect 72 degrees. The flowers should be beautiful, yet not
overpowering in their scent." The funeral director takes it all down.
The day of the funeral the widow is examining the viewing room. She
notices that the funeral director has not yet turned on the air
conditioner. She orders the director to turn it on so that when the
viewing starts, the room will be a perfect temperature. As soon as the
air conditioner is on, though, she notices her deceased husband's
hairpiece is flapping in the breeze caused by the air conditioner. "This
won't do!" She orders the director to take care of the problem. He
assures her that he will take care of it, if she'll just wait in the
outer office for ten minutes. She leaves and comes back after exactly
600 seconds.
Sure enough, her husband's hair is all in place. A month later,
the widow is reviewing the bill for the funeral and she
notices there was no charge for the hair problem. She calls to inquire as to
why. She's told that it was "on the house." "Nonsense," she retorts,
"you expended time and materials and I will compensate you for it. Now,
give me a price!"
"Ok, madam", the funeral director wearily agrees. He holds the phone
away and hollers across the room, "Hey, Charlie, how much did those
nails cost to put that toupee in place last month?"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Got any Hot News for us. Issues that involve funeral service, in your community, it in, Everything you see here was send in by someone just like you. If there is a newspaper article in your area, send the link and we can all learn from it, even if it is your opinion we all learn from one another. Any HOT NEWS OR SCUTTLEBUTT WILL BE POSTED IN THE READER'S WRITE BACK SECTION.
Send your story or issue to FSPA just click here --->Lowellma@aol.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sorry, No posts in this issue.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
You are welcome, to write us with your comments, suggestions, complaints and especially stories about funeral service. Please remember only FSPA members will have information posted in the weekly update, it's easy click here ---> Mailto:Lowellma@aol.com Your participation is appreciated and essential.
You are welcome, to post your professional article here, you need to author your article and agree it will be posted with your full name. Please remember only FSPA members will have information posted in the weekly update, it's easy click here ---> Mailto:Lowellma@aol.com Your participation is appreciated and essential.
FUNERAL SERVICE PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION does not share membership info with anyone, no one will be given your information with out your permission or a court order.
To Join the Funeral Service Professional Association you must derive some of your income from the funeral industry, students and retirees from the funeral profession are welcome as well, please e-mail the following information.
If you skip answering one of the seven questions, you are wasting your time, the standards are the same for everyone, FSPA is open to everyone in funeral service, we are all equals here no exceptions, FSPA will not tell anyone who you are unless you request your identity be disclosed, FSPA is only open to any type of Funeral Service Professional, or Funeral Service Affiliate such as: Funeral Association employees, Mortuary School Students, Funeral Service product providers and Funeral Service Media.
Accountants will tell you FSPA is a write off ! Please check with your accountant. If s/he approves Go get yourself a nice laptop and possibly write off your hardware as well as AOL or other Internet service charge as an expense, the more your participate in FSPA the more proof you have.
If you have a suggested question this please just send it along, none of FSPA 's mail will be possible with out your sending information into us,
To make life easier on me
First and foremost, Send your info or story in to FSPA.
2nd Please put on the top line your name and location, like "John from Massachusetts writes :"
3rd please address the subject line put:
This is just a hobby, if you send and don't address the subject line with FSPA, it usually delete it because it looks like junk mail, FSPA get over 50 pieces of mail a day, most gets deleted, THE SUBJECT LINE is the key so please, use the subject line properly. Put FSPA in the Subject line along with the flavor of your message.
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE the posting(s) you send are some times resent to others be careful, if you are proud of what you said and want the world to know how you feel Put your name, location and e-mail address at the end.
However If you don't want the world to know your ideas and you want to remain anonymous, just put name withheld at the end. FSPA does not reveal who its members are nor does FSPA lend it's list of members to others. There is no need to identify yourself. If you are not proud of your response (like the air line lost a body on us) it is not recommended you identify yourself, since we can all learn from problems. We need your input! Your answers go all over the place, E-mail is so easy to forward. We are happy to learn from your problems and issues, there is no need to identify yourself if you don't want to, South Western United States if just fine.
If the article you want is from a commercial publisher YOU MUST get permission from the person or company who created the story.
Because e-mail can be altered electronically, the integrity of this communication cannot be guaranteed. Any of the items you read here, you are free to reuse, understand, the postings are just that, the items are for the most part cut and pasted from E-mail, others FAXed and of course from funeral publications and other media. What you see here is never checked, if you do decide to republish or quote any thing FSPA puts out, check it out, please do not name the individual who sent the article without their permission. If you see fit to use any information from FSPA please give us credit. Ages ago a state association news letter posted a quote using the senders name, she was not a happy camper nor was her company, please use caution in the future. We appreciate your understanding and we need your support.
Consider these steps for your life.
1. Work like you don't need the money.
2. Love like you've never been hurt.
3. Dance like you do when nobody's watching.