Mortuary Management - Funeral Monitor - Seminar - In California
Mortuary Management - Funeral Monitor Seminar Registration
Tiburon, California (San Francisco) - May 13 - 15 - 2001
Information: (800) 700-6725 Fax: (415) 435-7415
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The Independent Advantage: Making It Work For You
SEMINAR BEGINS AT 9:00 A.M. MONDAY, MAY 14TH, AND ENDS AT NOON ON TUESDAY, MAY 15th. INCLUDED: WELCOME COCKTAIL PARTY (SUNDAY EVENING), BREAKFAST MONDAY AND TUESDAY, LUNCHEON ON MONDAY, CONVENTION MATERIALS AND EXCELLENT INFORMATION.
Name of Firm:___________________________________________________________________
Address:_______________________________________________________________________
Telephone:_______________________________Fax:___________________________________
Registrant(s):
Name(s):_______________________________________________________________________
Name(s):_______________________________________________________________________
PLEASE MAKE HOTEL RESERVATIONS DIRECTLY - TOLL FREE
Tiburon Lodge - 1651 Tiburon Blvd., Tiburon, CA - 94920
Special Room Rates: $118.00 (1 or 2 persons)
Toll Free Reservations
Nationwide: (800) 762-7770 - From California: (800) 842-8766
Be certain to mention Mortuary Management or Funeral Monitor for preferred rates.
Number of Rooms ( ) Arrival Date:________________Departure:___________________________
Special Request / Notes:___________________________________________________________
Regular Transportation is available to and from San Francisco International Airport &endash Details and options provided to registrants. Spouses are our guests - no registration fee.
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Number of Primary Registrants_______________ @ $375 $_______________
(If registration fee is paid before April 15th):_______@ $295 $______________
Total Amount Payable: $______________
Payment Options:
Check:___ Visa:____ MasterCard:____ Discover:_____ Card #:____________________________
Name on Card:_____________________________________Expiration Date:__________________
Signature:________________________________________Telephone:____________________
I (we) WILL [ ] - WILL NOT [ ] participate in the Muir Woods Afternoon Bus Trip on Sunday.
Make Checks payable to Mortuary Management Seminar
Mail to: Seminar ~ #4 St. Lucia Place ~ Tiburon, Ca 94920-1028
Fees Refunded if not completely satisfied.
In a message dated 4/30/01 4:20:15 PM, Michele in Florida writes marguin@ifdf.org writes:
The IFDF has had a major victory!
SB 1610 has passed both chambers of the legislature, and is on its way to Gov. Jeb Bush's office!
THANK YOU to all those who supported the IFDF in this effort!
This bill stops the raiding of preneed funeral trusts. Stops surety bond funding of preneed under 497.425 by July 1, 2001, for all except SCI (has until Dec 31, 2004.) Eliminates the Need Determination for new cemeteries. Increases the acreage requirement for new cemeteries from 15 to 30 acres. Increases experience from 1 to 3 years for new cemetery mangagers. Adds definitions of "ossuary" and "scattering garden" to statutes. "Legally authorized person" is amended to eliminate a spouse who commits an act of violence against a deceased.
Clarifies provisions governing authorized trust companies, banks, & savings & loan associations; authorizes care & maintenance trust funds to be established with federal savings & loan association holding trust powers in this state, Keeps the regulatory boards 497 and 470 separate.
In a message dated 4/30/01 4:03:15 PM, Freddie in Massachusetts writes:
Hi John
I was surfing around and came across this site,, please pass it along to those interested..
Military Funeral Customs - Arlington National Cemetery
http://www.arlingtoncemetery.com/customs.htm
Regards
Freddie
Hearing rumors and only rumors I wrote NFDA President John Carmon and he wrote back.
In a message dated 5/1/01 10:10:17 PM, LOWELL MA writes:
Hi John, Hope all is well, Can you tell me who is on the selection committee for Bob Harden's Replacement.
Thanks John McDonough
In a message dated Thu, 3 May 2001 4:32:34 PM Eastern Daylight Time, JCCarmon writes:
Dwayne Spence, Chair; Bob Biggins, Sumner Brashears, Bill Aaron, Meg Mountcastle ( Virginia) and Kurt Soffe ( Utah), and Fred Biddle ( Human Resource Consultant). The Executive Board is soliciting input regarding the needs and qualifications of NFDA FOR and ABOUT this position from many groups ie State Executives, Past Presidents, consultants, and staff. We welcome thoughts or ideas individual members may have as well. These can be communicated to me via Email JCCarmon@aol.com or faxed to 860-688-1669 or sent % PO Box 6, Windsor, CT 06095. The Executive Board will ultimately convey the criteria to the search committee who will do the screening of candidates. All of whom will be kept confidential. The committee will ultimately make a reccomendation(s) to the Executive Board for their action. This process can take 6 to 9 months to complete. We do not want to leave any stone unturned in as wide a national search as possible to seek the best candidates possible. We realize this position is not only critial to NFDA and its membership but also the funeral service profession.
Prominent funeral director Thomas Lynch, an outspoken critic of preneed, has agreed to debate his viewpoint at the ICFA 2002 Convention and Exposition, April 24-27 in Orlando, Florida. Billed as "The Great Debate II," Lynch will face the ICFA's Paul Elvig, a strong preneed advocate, who debated NFDA President John Carmon on the FTC Funeral Rule at this year's ICFA Convention in Las Vegas.
Lynch, owner and operator of Lynch & Sons Funeral Directors in Milford, Michigan, is the author of collections of poems and essays, and his work has appeared in leading magazines such as The New Yorker and Harper's.
Elvig, ICFA secretary and vice president of administration at Evergreen-Washelli Memorial Park and Funeral Home in Seattle, Washington, is a former government regulator who helped establish the
North American Cemetery Regulators Association. Elvig also has represented the ICFA before the Federal Trade Commission and the Senate Special Committee on Aging.
Details of the Orlando Convention and Exposition will be available in the next few months.
In a message dated 4/20/01 10:37:55 AM, Jim at Havenline Casket writes:
HELLO!
congratulations to the latest winner of WINACASKET:
G. Joe Frederick
Frederick Funeral Home
1543 Legonier, PA 15650
we @ haven line industries appreciate your support and comments... please register again ...www.winacasket.com and visit our company site
goodluck!
the haven line industries
In a message dated 4/22/01 9:52:50 PM, Christian Hood writes:
Hi John: I am pleased to announce that for the fourth consecutive time, the Kenmore Square Institute for Continuing Education held it's seminar with an increasing number of attendees. 145 funeral directors attended our 4th program held on April 7th at the Forest Hills Cemetery & Crematory to hear three programs offered by Robert J. Kane, MBIE, CFSP, Roberta Andresen (Author, Lecturer) and Anthony Hollingshead, RFD, Director of Crematory Operations at Forest Hills in J.P. (Boston, MA) Attendees received their (5) required CEU's plus their annual training required as part of the Department of Labors 29 CFR 1910.1030 on Bloodborne Pathogens.
The Kenmore Square Institute is pleased to announce their 5th offering - which will be held on May 19 at the Taunton Holiday Inn in Taunton, MA (exit 9 off 495). A mailing went out this weekend (April 22) to over 550 funeral directors from Worcester south to Cape Cod and everyone in between. Attendees will hear Robert Kane, Pat Brophy and Anthony Hollingshead - and will receive their (5) required CEUs as well as their training in Bloodborne Pathogens.
Contact Robert Kane at (508) 238-4269 at his funeral home in Easton if you should have questions.
Thanks a lot.
Christian Hood, MBIE, CFSP
www.kenmoresquareinstitute.com
In a message dated 4/23/01 10:57:45 AM, DennisCMcGeeJr writes:
Published in the Business section of the CourierPost on Monday, April 23, 2001
Magazine: Prepaid funerals a bad deal
An estimated 9 million to 11 million Americans have bought some $21 billion worth of prepaid funerals, which are pitched by telemarketers and salespeople as a means for consumers to avoid skyrocketing costs, according to Consumer Reports.
But prepaid plans benefit struggling funeral chains more than they protect consumer's pocketbooks, the magazine said in it's May issue.
"Our report provides new evidence on why prepaid funeral plans are a bad deal for consumers," associate editor Jeff Blyskal said. "We found that the most aggressive marketers of these plans - funeral homes owned by large national chains - charged the highest prices."
The report is based in part on a price survey of 235 funeral homes. It provides guidance on what consumers should expect to pay for a funeral including bench mark prices for standard funerals using seven types of caskets.
Consumers considering a prepaid funeral should contact nonprofit funeral homes consumer groups for advice such as the Funeral Consumers Alliance at (800) 765-0107 or www.funerals.org
Thank you for dropping by to visit, our server keeps track of where ya'll are from and we enjoy a global relationship, below is a list of countries who have stopped by to visit.
In a message dated 4/20/01 9:13:46 AM, Willis in Washington DC writes:
Hillenbrand Industries Names Kenneth Camp to Succeed David Hirt as Batesville Casket Co. President and Chief Executive Officer
Last Updated: 10:06 AM ET 4/23/2001
Hirt to retire after successful 33-year career and 11 years as Batesville Casket CEO
BATESVILLE, Ind., April 23 /PRNewswire Interactive News Release/ -- Hillenbrand Industries Inc. (HB) President and Chief Executive Officer Frederick W. Rockwood and David J. Hirt, president and chief executive officer of the Corporation's Batesville Casket Company operating unit today jointly announced Hirt's decision to retire effective May 1, 2001.
Hillenbrand Industries executive and long-time Batesville Casket executive Kenneth A. Camp will succeed Hirt as Batesville Casket president and chief executive officer.
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20010423/CLM013 )
"No one is as uniquely qualified as Ken to lead Batesville Casket Company by building upon the strong foundation created by Dave's leadership and dedication to the business," said Rockwood. "His first-hand experience in funeral service and a 20-year record of career accomplishments throughout Batesville Casket Company will ensure a smooth leadership transition. In preparation for this transition, Ken has spent the last year on the Hillenbrand
Industries executive team developing experience that will serve him well as he seeks to align the
Batesville Casket organization with our Corporation's focus on increasing shareholder value," said Rockwood.
Prior to his Hillenbrand Industries assignment, Camp served as part of Batesville Casket's senior leadership team for 11 years as vice president/general manager of Batesville's operations group; vice president, sales and service; vice president, marketing; and vice president, strategic planning. Camp began his career with Batesville Casket as regional sales manager in 1981.
According to Camp, Batesville's top priorities will be to build on the company's strong market position and to develop new approaches to meeting the evolving needs of customers.
"Dave Hirt epitomized the mission of Batesville Casket to be a positive force in funeral service," Camp said. "I am personally committed to that same mission. I'm also honored to lead a great company with an impressive legacy for the continued benefit of associates, customers, families who rely on us, and Hillenbrand Industries' shareholders."
Outgoing president and CEO Dave Hirt, who will continue to serve the company as a business consultant, said, "Batesville Casket Company has been an important part of my life and I believe Ken has all the skill, experience and insight to move the company forward. I will always be proud to be associated with funeral service and feel privileged to have been a leader within the industry. I hold deep and profound appreciation and respect for funeral directors and the important role they serve in helping families. I'm confident that Ken brings to his new position that same dedication to our special mission."
About Batesville Casket Company
Batesville Casket Company is the leading manufacturer and supplier of burial caskets, cremation products and related services to licensed funeral homes. Batesville Casket has been part of helping funeral directors and families for more than 100 years. A wholly owned subsidiary of Hillenbrand Industries, Inc., Batesville is committed to making every funeral experience meaningful. About Hillenbrand Industries Inc.
Hillenbrand Industries Inc. (HB), headquartered in Batesville, Indiana, is a publicly traded holding company for three major wholly owned businesses serving the funeral services and health care industries. All three businesses have headquarters in Batesville, Indiana.
The company's Funeral Services Group consists of two businesses: Batesville Casket Company and Forethought Financial Services Inc., the leading provider of insurance and trust-based financial products and services for pre- planning funeral services.
Hillenbrand Industries' Health Care Group consists of the Hill-Rom Company Inc., a leader in the worldwide health care community providing sales, rentals, service and support for products including beds, therapy surfaces, stretchers, infant warmers, incubators, furniture, communication systems, surgical columns, medical gas management systems, modular headwalls, lighting systems and operating room equipment.
Disclosure Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:
Certain statements in this press release contain forward-looking statements, within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, regarding the Company's future plans, objectives, beliefs, expectations, representations and projections. The Company has tried, wherever possible, to identify these forward-looking statements by using words such as "priorities," "develop," and "seeks," but their absence does not mean that the statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding increasing shareholder value; building on the company's strong market position; and developing new approaches to meet evolving needs of customers. It is important to note that the Company's actual results could differ materially from those in any such forward-looking statements. They are not guarantees of future performance. Factors that could cause actual results to differ include but are not limited to: a downturn in the general business and economic conditions of the Company's customers, a decrease in death rates, and whether the Company's new products are successful in the marketplace. The Company assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. Readers should also refer to the various disclosures made by the Company in the Company's periodic reports on Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Wednesday April 25, 2000
John McDonough, called Batesville and asked to speak to Dave Hirt, they put me through to his office and as usual Dave answers the phone! After exchanging pleasantries Dave sounded confident and happy with his decision to leave Batesville, I asked him why, Dave said "Ive been with Batesville for over thirty years and comes in every ones life for a change, my career with Batesville have been and continues to be enjoyable, and it was my decision to make the change, I've been looking forward to this for a while. I asked what is he going to be doing, Dave admitted he is happy to have no immidate plans, and frankly he said he will do nothing for a little while, but eventually plans to be involved. I thanked Dave for his service to the Funeral Community and wished him health and happiness.
In a message dated 4/26/01 20:43:44 EDT, Harry in California writes:
Leading Funeral Industry Technology and Marketing Firm to Provide
Internet Services for CFDA and Member Funeral Homes
LOS ANGELES, April 18 /PRNewswire/ -- PLAN4ever.com, the Internet's leading commerce and information portal providing Technology and Applications Service Solutions for the death care industry, (www.PLAN4ever.com), announced today that it has received the enlorsement of the California Funeral Directors Association (www.CAFDA.org). PLAN4ever will also be providing Internet development and strategy services for the CFDA's Web site as well as providing access to its National Funeral Home Affiliate program to all CFDA members.
"The CFDA views the Internet as a critical tool for our members in conducting their businesses as well as providing valuable services to the consumer," said Les Peters, CFDA President. "With PLAN4ever, we are able to expand the current services provided on our own Web site as well as provide our members with fully integrated online commerce solutions, extensive marketing support, and technology that provides unique tools to assist their clients with funeral planning and condolence issues."
Members of CFDA will be able to join PLAN4ever's National Funeral Home Affiliate program which provides free turn-key Internet solutions for fwneral homes including Web site design and development, Web site hosting, technical support, and comprehensive marketing and promotional support. Affiliates may also carry products and services on their individual Web sites from PLAN4ever's extensive`online mall. These`products and services include flowers, sympathy cards, memorial donations, travel services, legal documents, pre-need insurance, funeral financing packages, and online obituaries.
"We are extremely pleased to receive this endorsement and strategic partnership opportunity from the California Funeral Directors Association. Since our launch las|<209;2have worked closely with funeral service providers to develop a program that meets their needs. Our program offers extensive marketing support to attract new consumers, including our exclusive banner advertising utilizing keywords such as 'funeral' and 'obituary' on major search engines such as AOL and Yahoo. It also provides beautifully designed e-commerce Web sites and the ability to generate new streams of vevenue with no up-front costs,"`said`Stuart Miller,`CEO of PLAN4ever. `
In addition to membership in PLAN4ever's affiliate program, CFDA members will receive special Internet and technology training at no cost. Members will also be able to access important member information through CFDA's enhanced Web site being produced by PLAN4ever.com.
"Over the next several months, we will be rolling out many new features on our Web site to allow our membership to receive a variety of information and services previously not available," said Mike Wick, CFDA Director and Chairman of the Web Sitg Task Force Committee. "By working with PLAN4ever, we will be able to continue to grow our services and provide additional support for our members."
About PLAN4ever.com
PLAN4ever.com (www.PLAN4ever.com) is the leading commerce and information portal providing Internet and Applications Service Solutions for the death care industry. Based in Los Angeles, PLAN4ever offers a full-range of end-of-life focused products, services, information and technology which provide funeral homes, cemeteryes, and related businesses with turnkey technology and marketing solutions including e-commerce enabled Web sites. PLAN4ever also offers a full-range of consumer products and services including sympathy flowers, online obituaries, urns, legal documents, and a mortuary locator search engine. Launched online in April, 1999, PLAN4ever is a project of Bold New World, a leading`Internet development and investment firm based in Los Angeles.
About California Funeral Directors Association
The California Funeral Directors Association (CFDA) is comprised of approximately 450 members throughout California -- funeral homes and companies serving the funeral profession. Since 1903 CFDA has provided continuous professional development and enhanced the economic viability of member funeral service practitioners in order to provide services as desired by consumers. CFDA has earned respect for its professional service to its members,`for its effective legislative advocacy within California's`highly political climate, and for creating a rich variety of resources to assist its members in their delivery of comprehensive employment benefits to employees and compassionate service to clients.
SOURCE PLAN4ever.com
CO: PLAN4ever.com; California Funeral Directors Association; Bold New World
In a message dated 4/02/01 1:32:07 PM, Willis in Washington DC writes:
DUBUQUE, Iowa--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 26, 2001--New Melleray Abbey, home to contemplative Trappist monks for more than 150 years, announced today plans to start selling their line of handcrafted wooden caskets to the public.
Launched 14 months ago to offset lagging farm profits, Trappist Caskets has done a brisk business selling to funeral homes and distributors. Now, the monks want to expand their enterprise and open their doors to the public.
"There's clearly a demand out there for our caskets, so we're going to broaden our reach," said Sam Mulgrew, General Manager of Trappist Caskets. "The simplicity, workmanship, and affordability of our caskets make them attractive to most people."
The caskets are handmade by monks at the abbey, located on rich Iowa land about 10 miles outside of Dubuque. Raw materials come from the abbey's forest, the second largest privately owned forest in the state. For every tree harvested for casket use, another 100 are planted. They expect to produce 300 caskets this year.
The monks have been making simple caskets for members of their community since the abbey was founded in 1849. The handcrafted caskets, available in pine, oak, ash, and walnut, are fully upholstered and range in price from $550 to $1385.
The monks can ship caskets anywhere in the country in time for most wakes and funeral services. For more information, visit their web site at www.trappistcaskets.com or call toll free at 888/433-6934.
In a message dated 4/20/01 19:13:08 CDT, Pam in Illinois writes:
CHICAGO, April 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Richard Lamb Funeral Service announces the opening of its Near North arrangement suite. Located at 233 E. Erie St., Chicago IL 60611, the suite is a facility in which families can make funeral or cremation arrangements in a convenient, non-funeral home setting. This is the company's second location; the original location is in the western suburb of Westmont. Founded by long-time industry leader, Richard Lamb and his wife, Susan, in 1998, the company has taken a unique approach to funeral and cremation service. They offer a wide variety of services and merchandise sales, but without the high cost of a funeral home building. According to Richard Lamb, "Most people today are looking for simplicity, control, and value in all their major decisions. Until recently that was almost impossible to do in the funeral industry. We look at ourselves as the Saturn of the funeral industry: upfront value pricing, openness in everything we do, and no pressure."
The Richard Lamb Funeral Service web site is one of the most comprehensive in the industry and one of the few that contains complete pricing information for all services and merchandise. "Quite often people look at our web site first, then call or come in. They may select a complete cremation or funeral service or just buy a casket from us," Lamb says.
Casket and burial vault samples, cremation urns and jewelry, bronze and granite markers, books, cards, and other printed materials, are all displayed tastefully at the new arrangement suite. This allows the family to complete funeral, cremation, or pre-need arrangements in one convenient location.
For more information or to request a casket brochure or service price list, call toll-free 1 888/511-5262 or view online at www.richardlamb.com
In a message dated 4/20/01 18:14:35 CDT, Pam in Illinois writes:
PITTSBURGH, April 26 /PRNewswire/ -- Along a busy highway, motorists pass a roadside shrine to a young mother killed in an automobile accident. A wooden cross, flowers and a Mylar balloon serve as a memorial to the woman.
From Maine to California, there are similar roadside memorials. The names of those remembered are different, but the purpose -- remembrance -- is the same.
"People have an inner need to remember and memorialize," said David B. Jones, manager of sales and marketing for Matthews International Corporation, the world's leading manufacturer of memorialization products. "Today, we not only want to memorialize our loved ones, but we want our memorials to be distinctive. Regardless, if a person chooses ground burial, mausoleum entombment or cremation, there is a growing trend for more personalized memorialization."
What types of memorials are popular in 2001? According to Jones, people are designing memorials that convey their personalities. He outlined the latest trends.
-- Monuments are being designed in distinctive shapes and brilliant granite colors including blues, greens, reds and blacks. Highly- detailed, four-color etchings are also being added to monuments.
-- Flush bronze memorials, once only available as brown rectangular markers, are now available in different colors and shapes with more personalization options. Emblems, inspirational verses, epitaphs, individual signatures and sculpted bronze or ceramic portraits are the more popular forms of personalization.
-- Aboveground entombment is steadily rising. Cemeteries that offer cast bronze crypt fronts depicting nature scenes and religious images are finding people selecting these crypts over standard marble fronts.
Also, more people are customizing their crypt fronts with emblems, vases and lamps.
-- Private family mausoleums are gaining popularity among people who desire premium memorialization. Worldwide sourcing of granite and new fabricating techniques are making them more economical.
-- Cremation. Approximately one out of every four people chooses cremation and that number is increasing. Cremation gardens, which are beautifully landscaped areas with Columbariums that accommodate cremated remains, cremation memorials and areas for scattering, are the newest offerings.
"Today's cemeteries provide a host of memorialization options to meet families' diverse needs," Jones added. He strongly encourages people to talk with industry professionals before the time of need in order to make a selection free from the emotional stress experienced from the death of a loved one.
In a message dated 4/24/01 8:39 AM, Jack in Ohio writes:
CINCINNATI, April 3 /PRNewswire/ -- National Sorbents Inc.,
(OTC Bulletin Board: NSIE) will soon introduce to the marketplace an ingenious product that can eliminate potential environmental and legal problems that have long beset funeral service professionals, casket manufacturers, and mausoleum manufacturers -- the production and leakage of natural bodily fluids and embalming chemicals from the deceased postmortem.
The product is an inexpensive casket liner made from a proprietary blend of polymers and the company's DRY 'N LOCK(R) material capable of absorbing more than 40 times its weight in fluids. It weighs only a few ounces and is designed for installation out of view in the bottom of the casket. After extensive testing, the liner has been shown to act as a solidification agent, trapping and encapsulating the fluids that are produced from the body as a result of the natural decomposition process. "There is no comparable product on the market," President Dan Jones said.
National Sorbents plans to market the mass-produced liners to casket manufacturers, funeral homes, and mausoleum manufacturers in North America.
One casket manufacturer has signed on to purchase a large quantity, and several others manufacturers have expressed similar interest. About 2 million caskets are produced in the U.S. annually. The liner would add only $10.00 or so to the cost of the casket, which typically runs into the hundreds of dollars, and could save millions of dollars annually in legal fees within the profession.
Despite the hefty price of caskets, their sturdy construction and some manufacturers' claims about the integrity of their products, many caskets have proven incapable of holding the 10 to 25 gallons or more of fluids that leak from a body weeks or months after burial or entombment as nature reduces the body through decomposition. Therein lies the environmental and legal quagmire to which funeral homes, casket manufacturers and mausoleum manufacturers are vulnerable. An estimated 70-80 lawsuits are currently pending in the United States within the mortuary profession according to Donald E. Douthit, former director of research of the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science.
Caskets placed in outdoor mausoleums are an especially acute problem because of temperature extremes, especially during the summer, which accelerates the natural decomposition process. Relatives and friends visiting mausoleums on numerous occasions have been shocked to find corrosive fluids, in addition to offensive odors, have breached the casket. Such conditions also introduce the potential for safety and environmental issues. As a result, some major cities in North America are considering codifying how mausoleums should be built. National Sorbents plans to market a variation on its casket liner to address the problem.
"The product is completely novel and will have a significant impact on mortuary science, as it will allow a steady dehydration of fluids in a controlled manner," said Douthit, who has been called as an expert witness in numerous court cases involving a wide range of mortuary science-related matters. "In several of the cases I've participated in, if caskets had been lined with this material, there would have been no court case," he said.
For more information on the company and its line of DRY 'N LOCK(R) products, contact Daniel Jones, President, and CEO, National Sorbents, Inc; 10139 Commerce Park Drive; Cincinnati, Ohio, 45246. Phone 513-860-4144 or toll free 800-322-4144.
All of the material contained herein has been prepared by D.P. Martin & Associates, Inc. (DPM) or one of its affiliates, based on information supplied by the client or other sources believed to be reliable. This information is not guaranteed by DPM to be accurate. The company's actual results could differ materially from those described in any forward-looking statements contained herein. All material is provided for information purposes only.
DPM has been retained by National Sorbents, Inc. for dissemination of news on the company's behalf. DPM's affiliates, officers, directors and employees may have also bought, or may buy the shares discussed in this report and may profit in the event these shares rise in value. DPM intends to sell these shares should a rise in value occur.
In a message dated 4/28/01 4:54:02 PM, Ralph in Massachusetts sends us:
LETTER TO THE IRS:
April 23, 2001
Internal Revenue Service
State Processing Center
Holtsville, NY 01150-0115
Dear Taxmen/women:
Enclosed is my 2001 tax return & payment. Please take note of the attached article from the February 8, 2001 USA Today newspaper which serves as my Year 2000 Tax guide.
In the article, you will see that the Pentagon pays $171.50 for hammers and NASA has paid $600.00 for a toilet seat.
Please find enclosed four toilet seats (value $2400) and six hammers (value $1029). This brings my total payment to $3429.00. Please note the overpayment of $22.00 and apply it to the "Presidential Election Fund," as noted on my return.
Might I suggest you the send the above mentioned fund a 1.5 inch screw. (See attached article...HUD paid $22.00 each1.5 inch Phillips head screw.)
Paying for taxes this was fun and very gratifying. I'm looking forward to next year's tax payment with great expectation.
Sincerely,
Your Friend Ralph!
Inferior merchandise from casket store
In a message dated 4/28/01 4:31:03 PM, Jim in Washington State writes:
John,
This is my fisrt submission to you and your fine site, but I couldn't hold my tounge any longer. Two weeks ago, I had to recieve my first casket from a casket store, it has been my policy to have the family present at the time of delivery of a second party sellers delivery, and to inspect the merchandise before it comes into the funeral home. The casket was delivered a half hour later than what the family was told to expect, the casket was a very poor copy of a copy of Batesville's Primrose, the casket was dented, scratched and the decals were torn. It was in terrible condition, the interior was not sheared and sewn, it was ripped and stapled in.
Needless to say the family was not happy with what they saw and told the seller that he did not want that casket, he was told that "he bought it, as is, and he could not change it". I was horrified, I would NEVER do this to anyone no matter what. but I guess all "used car salesmen are the same". their ethics are for the pocket and not the customer.
Thanks for letting me vent my anger Jim
++++++++++ RESPONSE ++++++++++
In a message dated 5/2/01 9:33:10 PM, Betty writes:
Your prior letter from a reader - finding a lot of faults with this. If you will look close, my comments are in caps, his are not.
John, This is my first submission to you and your fine site, but I couldn't hold my tongue any longer.
Two weeks ago, I had to recieve my first casket from a casket store, it has been my policy to have the family present at the time of delivery of a second party sellers delivery (HOLD ON, NOTE IT WAS HIS FIRST DELIVERY, THEN HE GOES ON TO SAY, "IT HAS BEEN MY POLICY..."; CONFLICTING STORIES HERE!!), and to inspect the merchandise before it comes into the funeral home. (THIS IS NOT LEGAL, AND HIS CUSTOMERS ARE PUT UNDER ENOUGH DISTRESS WITHOUT THESE ANTI PROFESSIONAL TACTICS!) The casket was delivered a half hour later than what the family was told to expect, (DOES HE REQUIRE THEM TO BE THERE FOR DELIVERY OF THE FLOWERS TOO?) the casket was a very poor copy of a copy of Batesville's Primrose, the casket was dented, scratched and the decals were torn. It was in terrible condition, the interior was not sheared and sewn, it was ripped and stapled in. (IF THIS INDEED HAPPENED, YOU WOULD THINK THE MAN WOULD SIGN HIS NAME, THE F.H. NAME AND THE NAME OF THE CASKET STORE WHO DISHONORED THE CUSTOMER BY DAMAGED GOODS.; I THINK THIS IS NOT ANY TRUE HAPPENING, AND HAVE TROUBLE BELIEVING IT. TO BE A LESSON WHO NOT TO DO BUSINESS WITH - WHAT HAD HE TO FEAR, IF IT WAS TRUE- BY EXPOSING THE CASKET STORE NAME, LOCATIONS AND ALL HIS DETAILS AS WELL? JIM IS FULL OF BALONEY) Needless to say the family was not happy with what they saw and told the seller that he did not want that casket, he was told that "he bought it, as is, and he could not change it". I was horrified, I would NEVER do this to anyone no matter what.( YOU WOULDN'T DO WHAT?? BUT YOU WOULD (COUGH, COUGH) CALL A FAMILY IN NEEDLESSLY, NOT ABIDING; THE RULES) but I guess all "used car salesmen are the same". their ethics are for the pocket and not the customer. Thanks for letting me vent my anger
Jim(end copy);FIRST, I HAVE TOO BEEN A READER FOR AGES NOW, AND HAVE BIT BY
TONGUE PRIOR. (okay, I'll stop screaming) This is a worthy site to learn from.; While I understand that the funeral industry is changing by leaps and bounds, and many dislike the changes, it serves no purpose to make up stories, lumping any that may be less than professional with statements like "Jim" did about "all used car........" I am Betty B. a bit outspoken casket retailer (http://www.burialitems.com/ATM.html); and Vice Chair of the NCRA (have noted in the past, there have been copies from our site, http://www.casketstores.com bb posted here, many think the National Casket Retailers Assoc. site is great to learn from too, and thanks) I can tell you horror stories from our side, and have heard most unprofessional conduct from retailers about directors hating to loose a sale so bad, they have dented or scratched or tried to act like a "used car salesman and dicker" ONCE they fear the sale lost. (How sad, at a time like this, that family is all ready in trouble, and if added to - that salesman should hang his/her head in shame - that is so low!) But wait, I am here to tell you, it is the few, the far between now a days, who act like bottom feeders. And even when caskets first started appearing in funeral homes from retailers, the classy directors took it in stride. It is the law, freedom of choice. However, even hearing those horror stories, I would NEVER say "ALL ....." and lump the good with the worse than bad!! Is that professional? I think not, and I think "Jim" is the one without ethics and is not angry, he is just make believe, trying to add to the fire, trying; to give retailers a black eye. We can debate hours on what all is wrong with the industry. Adding stories like that, thinking like that to a nice publication reeks. While you may not like lost sales, being a classy firm and FOR the family is utmost importance. Freedom of choice is going to happen. I know of no casket store who is not proud of what they sell. I can bore you to death with how unfair and un-American it is the the big three try to circumvent that freedom of choice - but it is not working. I can sell any brand, anywhere - and do. Please stop and think, if there were not a need for the casket stores, they never would have; came into existence in the first place. If you really wish to put them out of business, do it with class. Not tactics, not lies and certainly not at the expense of the family's time and feeling by trying to put them in the middle of any nick picking scene.
Thanks for reading, "savcash" (now I will go back to being a silent reader, of what I hope remains a classy site. And a side note, from an observer point of view, I compare this new way of doing biz - with what WAS the new way of doing biz when the trucks started taking business from the railroads. But how low did the railroad stoop to try to keep their sales of moving freight?; And do they both exist now, and do they try to give each other black eyes daily, to earn a few bucks more, at their customer's expense? Can't we all just conduct our biz without trying to kick the other one in the groin? May the better - for the customer- way of doing business, win. With honor and dignity. Not this trash that SOME of the others are trying to do!!)
+++++++ MORE ++++++
In a message dated 5/3/01 2:52:28 PM, Cathie in Rhode Island writes:
I read with great interest Betty's strong reaction to the funeral director who complained about the quality of the casket from a store. The most interesting to me was her attitude about, I am most definitely paraphrasing here, "Can't we all just get along?" Let's talk about professionalism. I had a friend who wanted to go to Affordable Caskets here in Rhode Island, and not knowing anything about caskets she asked me to go with her. I told her I would, but I did not want to say or ask anything, and she was not to ask me any questions in front of the person there. I was appalled at the man there. He was in jogging shorts, a tank top and running shoes, and told us we just caught him, he was on his way out (this was 1:30 in the afternoon). She told him she would come back another time, and he said no, come in have a look. She explained that she was looking to prearrange a funeral and had heard about his store. He said that was fine, and he would be happy go with her to the funeral home to be sure the funeral director did not mislead her in any way. He then picked up a poster from the floor and showed her what the FTC rule stated. He told her that funeral directors will lie to her about buying a casket from him, so he would be happy to go with her to protect her rights. I must have had some look on my face, because he then looked at me and said how he understood how hard it was for some people to deal with the thought of losing a loved one because when he lost his mother, he was grief stricken and then got ripped off by a funeral director. That is why he opened a casket store. My friend realized how uncomfortable I was getting and thanked him for his time and we left. As for the quality of the caskets, same as any funeral home can get from many vendors, not great, not horrible. As for professionalism, not impressed. As for Betty's statements, you should have your retailers practice what you preach, there is not one line of exaggeration in this retelling of events. I even left out some details for the sake of space. I did not enjoy being slammed by some person who lumped me into the extremely small group of bad funeral directors, and I doubt it was the first time this man made those statements. That is why there is distrust and bad feelings between funeral directors and casket retailers, they jumped on ALL of us as thieves and criminals from the moment they opened the doors. As for the Railroads and truckers, there were huge amounts of problems there, go back and read some history. It still exists today.
In a message dated 5/1/01 4:27:09 PM, DennisCMcGeeJr writes:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: DENNIS C. McGEE, JR.
Sweeney Funeral Home
337 Bridgeboro St.
Riverside, NJ 08075
DATE: MAY 1, 2001
HEADLINE: Local Funeral Home Best in Burlington County
Sweeney Funeral Home voted one of the best in Burlington County, NJ
BODY: Willingboro, NJ - In January the Burlington County Times Newspaper ran a ballot and asked it's readers to share a few of their favorite businesses. On April 29, 2001 the "Best of Burlington County" appeared. Under the shopping and services catagory Sweeney Funeral Home of Riverside, NJ was voted one of the best in Burlington County.
In a message dated 4/30/01 7:44:22 AM, Brent4192@aol.com writes:
Hi John Thank you for allowing me to explain the World Gathering on Bereavement last night. This is truly a fantastic opportunity for funeral service and other professionals to come together with the bereaved population to share ideas on coping with grief and loss. The Ohio Funeral Directors Association has put together 4 days of excellent programming. There will be 6 plenary speakers, including Alan Wolfelt, Doug Manning, Rabbi Earl Grollman, Darcie Sims, Allie Franklin, , Margarita Suarez. The keynote speaker will be Zig Zigler . In addition we will be having over 80 workshops. The event will take place June 13-17, 2001 in Columbus. Ohio. Here is a link to the website that we have. World Gathering on Bereavement - June 13-17, 2001 . Again thank you for allowing me to post this in your newsletter.
Brent Hartley
Hartley Funeral Home
McComb. Ohio
(p.s. I am a member of the World Gathering Committee, and chairperson of the workshop committee)
KENMORE SQUARE INSTITUTE FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION
Presents
Robert J. Kane, Co-Founder of the Kenmore Square Institute
OSHA For The Funeral Director & Apprentice
29 CFR 1910.1000 to 1910.1030's Bloodborne Pathogens 0 CEU's
Hazard Communication Standard & Formaldehyde Exposure Standard 2 CEU's
&
Patricia A. Brophy, R.N., B.S.
"Brophy Bill" Known Now As The "Health Care Proxy"
Widow of the late Paul Brophy, 45 year old Firefighter who died following a brain aneurysm. Pat plays back her 1988 20/20 interview, then discusses the 3year long court battle to remove Paul's feeding tube so he could die with dignity
Legal & Ethical Issues Surrounding the Right to Die 1.5 CEU's
&
Anthony W. Hollingshead, RFD, NEI '78, Director of Crematory Operations
FOREST HILLS CEMETERY's CREMATORY
Cremation & The Funeral Director, Communicating About Cremation, Responding to Questions About Cremation, and Historical & Interesting Facts About Forest Hills Crematory 1.5 CEU's
SATURDAY, MAY 19, 2001
HOLIDAY INN - TAUNTON, EXIT 9 OFF ROUTE 495, TAUNTON ROOM UPSTAIRS
700 MYLES STANDISH BLVD., TAUNTON, MA (508) 823-0430
www.holidayinn-taunton.com
11:15AM to 4:00PM (Seminar Begins 11:45AM) Light Snack & Refreshments
Provided Your "OSHA" requirement, & 5 CEU's for only $79.99*
*Apprentices attending simply to satisfy the federally mandated requirement to receive training pertinent to OSHA's ruling found in the Code of Federal Regulations 29 CFR 1910.1030 will pay $29.99. Do keep in mind that the State Board of Registration has stated at one of their bi-monthly meetings that they will begin "auditing apprentices" to assure their compliance with this federal ruling mandating annual training. **Our courses have received approval by the State Board of Registration for Funeral Service. By joining us on May 19, 2001, at Holiday Inn Taunton, you will be satisfying all of your requirements with regard to the Board's CEU requirement and will as well be earning a certificate of attendance for participating in the segment regarding Bloodborne Pathogens.
www.state.ma.us/reg/boards/em/default.htm go to Board News then to Cont.
Educ.
Survey Results Are In ! FD's Prefer Attending CEU Functions That Satisfy All Their Obligations in One Sitting, And At A Time When There Are No Wakes Or Funerals. So Join Us At Our 5th Offering. And Remember -The Kenmore Square Institute Offers 1 Low Price For Everyone !!
Bob Kane at (508) 238-4269 / Christian Hood at (508) 245-2162 or
www.kenmoresquareinstitute.com
Detach Here Detach Here Detach Here Detach Here Detach Here Detach Here
Name__________________________________ Phone__________________________
Funeral Home__________________________ Phone 2________________________
Address________________________________ License #_______________________
City / Town_____________________________ State & Zip_____________________
CIRCLE ONE: MA FD's (5) CEU's, OSHA = $79.99 MA Apprentice OSHA Only= $29.99
Kindly Remit Check or Money Order No Later Than May 14, 2001 to:
Kenmore Square Institute, P.O. Box 22, Raynham Center, MA 02768
Seating is limited to 125. If we are sold out, you will receive a call and we'll return your check.
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In a message dated 5/2/01 12:19:25 AM, Dave in California cc's a letter to Sue Simon at the Monitor
I received the April 23, 2001, issue of "Funeral Monitor," where we revisited the fact formaldehyde is still being sold on e-bay. I would like to make it clear that I do not believe anyone in the funeral service is selling embalming fluid on e-bay. It is being sold by people who want to make a quick buck by selling damaged or out of date formaldehyde that is probably UN-useable for legitimate purposes. They are selling not a couple of bottles but bottle after bottle to whoever has the money, no questions asked.
Now I did ask myself a question: if e-bay can tap dance around their policy about embalming fluid, what else might be an OK to sling out to the public on the net? HOW ABOUT METHAMPHEDAMEN???
Why Not !!!
Watch any news program and you will see the hardest ingredients to get to make meth is; iodine, red phosphorus and ephedrine (regulated over the counter cold/diet medicine). You call buy as much as you want on e-bay and you don't even have to ID yourself. In California iodine is regulated and you can be jailed for selling it in large quantities. But not on e-bay. I called DEA and received the long run around and nothing was done.
By the way, if a person knows very little about chemistry and does not want to blow up the neighborhood, they only have to go to AMAZON.com and they will find several simple step by step books on how to make meth.
If a person wants to inject meth, the syringes and needles can be purchased on, you quested it, good old e-bay.
If you sell unlaundered clothes or certain shells, not only will you be politically incorrect, e-bay just might suspend your selling priviliges..GO FIGURE......Regards from Dave, that Retired Cop and proud of it.
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In a message dated 5/1/01 8:21:10 AM, Marsha in Maryland writes:
John, this time of year is great to get healthy and enjoy your life, a time to get back outside, take a walk around your neighborhood, I thought you and your readers would enjoy this tip for Realage.com
"Get On the Stick"
If you'd like to burn a few more calories during your daily walk, get yourself in pole position.
According to a recent study, people who adding walking poles to their workouts burned about 20% more calories than walkers who strolled empty-handed. What's more, walking poles can decrease the amount of stress that walking places on the knees and feet.
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In a message dated 4/26/01 9:07:10 AM, Vee in Maryland writes:
Thanks for the update, John. I'm glad everything's going well. The only other thing I've heard: a judge dismissed the big lawsuit in Pennsylvania earlier this month, the one involving the PFDA and the Penn. state board. You can call PFDA for a copy of the decision or if you call me, I"ll fax it to you. Have a good day.
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In a message dated 4/25/01 9:51:02 PM, NO NAME OR LOCATION writes:
WHY CAN'T I MAKE A PROFIT????LAWYERS...DRUG AND CAR COMPANIES DO....WHY NOT THE DEATH MERCHANTS...WE INVEST AND PUT A LOT OF TIME INTO A FUNERAL HOME ... HOW ABOUT THOSE OF US WHO HAVE 4-5 LOCATIONS ... ONLY NY AND A FEW STATES REQUIRE LICENSED PERSONNEL TO PICK UP REMAINS... WHY NOT ALLOW ANY ONE OVER 18 A DRIVERS LICENSE AND SOME SMARTS BETWEEN THE EARS. TO MAKE THE TRANSFERS....
YOU NEED A LICENSE TO EMBALM...MAKE ARRANGEMENTS DIRECT FUNERALS AND TO DIRECT AT THE CEMETERY OR CREMATORY... ALSO A FUNERAL LICENSE TO SELL PRE-NEED. IN 1968 A VOLKSWAGEN WAS $1,800 A PRICE OF AN AVG. FUNERAL NOW THE CAR IS $20,000 ARE YOUR FUNERALS...THAT PRICE ... I TIRED OF THE PRICE CUTTERS... THE HMO's DON'T CUT THE PRICE OR THE DRUG CZARS BUT MR. FUNERAL DIRECTOR IS PRESSURED BY THE MEDIA TO "lower his fees"... ASK YOUR ACCOUNTANT FOR A DISCOUNT ... HE'LL LAUGH YOU OUT OF THE OFFICE... WAKE UP AND GET YOUR share
PS PLEASE DON'T MENTION MY NAME OR E- MAIL. JUST PUT DOWN An F.D. WHO'S TRYING TO MAKE A LIVING... IN NY
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In a message dated 4/22/01 3:26:40 PM, Dan in California writes:
While we fret about the Funeral Rule and the new FTC Chairman, what is being done on a state or national arena to level the playing field between MegaMortuaries and "independents." The word "nothing" comes to mind. National FDA is broken up into several segments: Corporate Reps, Combos, Independent owners and funeral service staff. The same situation persists in many important state associations. Independent Funeral service operations will continue to face attrition in the face of lesser efficiency, effectiveness and economy unless this issue is addressed. On the other hand, perhaps we are simply witnessing a normal industrial evolution with our species soon to be listed as extinct. Again, on the other hand, perhaps a paid membership in a dynamic electronic service organization might be just the thing. Just a thought.
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In a message dated 4/17/01 11:26:48 AM, Michele in Florida writes: Yesterday, the Senate Committee on Banking and Insurance passed CS/SB 1610 unanimously! The bill was amended to conform to CS/House Bill 991. It also included one additional amendment to exclude a spouse that is arrested for an act of violence against the deceased. We will be working with both chambers of the Legislature to get the bills up on Special Order calendar and on its way to a vote by the full House and Senate.
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In a message dated 4/24/01 7:17:08 AM, Ellen in Massachusetts sends:
Four brothers got together to figure out what to put on their mother's tombstone, for she had just passed away. She had been married four times- to a banker, a musician, a minister, and an undertaker. After thinking hard, they came up with this phrase: One for the money, two for the show, three to get ready, and four to go.
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In a message dated 4/14/01 8:05:19 AM, Joe in Indiana writes:
John,
How are things in lovely Lowell, MA? Sure has grown since the days of past, when there were only a few of us out there, receiving the funeral news.
If anyone asks, this Aurora/Clarksburg thing, has been great for the funeral business, and when a few of the growing pains are worked out, and the basic standard stock is in place, this will be a marriage to fight with! With everyone hanging in there to keep it a family owned company, and the funeral directors still able to get the "Classic Clarksburg's", it makes a happy ending for all of us, and the funeral business as a whole.
Hope you and the family are good these days, and have a great Easter.
Hope to see you again in Orlando,
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In a message dated 4/22/01 9:14:48 PM, Inboxes writes: Three friends go to Heaven for orientation. They are all asked the same question "When you're lying in your casket, and friends and family are mourning over you what would you like to hear them say about you?" The first guy immediately responds, "I would like to hear them say that I was one of the great doctors of my time, and a great family man." The second guy says, "I would like to hear that I was a wonderful husband and school teacher who made a huge difference in the children of tomorrow." The last guy thinks for a moment, and then replies, "I guess I'd like to hear them say, 'Look, he's moving!'
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In a message dated 4/13/01 7:15:25 PM, Bob in South Carolina writes:
After all these years, finally:
Several years ago I was put into a pool of people to become certified in funeral service. That became a thing of the past in short order and I lost interest. Recently I regained my interest and reactivated my membership in the Academy of Funeral Service Practice. Diligently, I tried to recall the most important and memorable activities of my professional career. I submitted the items to the Academy and TODAY I received notification that I am a Certified Funeral Service Practitioner. I will be able to use the initials after my name in advertisements, business cards, correspondence, etc. I didn't think it would really mean much, but as you can tell I am extremely glad to have formally achieved this plateau in my profession. Thanks for listening.
Bob Borning, C.F.S.P
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In a message dated 4/16/01 8:10:58 PM, Anonymous writes:
ON THE ARTICLE, ABOUT THE MOUTH AREA AT TWO DIFFERENT FUNERAL'S IN TWO DIFFERENT STATES. I AM A HAIR STYLIST WITH EXPERIENCE PREPARING MANY REMAINS FOR THEIR VIEWING. TWO MANY EMBALMER'S DO NOT CARE THEY GET THE CASE EMBALMED AND THAT'S REALLY ALL THEY WORRY ABOUT. I ALSO DO SALON WORK TOO AND SO MANY OF MY CUSTOMER'S COMPLAIN THAT THERI FAMILY MEMBER WERE JUST THROWN IN THE CASKET'S, WITH THE CLOTHING NOT NEATLY ARRANGED. EMBALMER'S MAIN CONCERN IS THE PRESERVATION NOT THE APPEARANCE, YES I KNOW THERE IS SOME SPECIAL ONES WHO DO CARE. I HAVE LOST TWO JOBS FOR PREPARING THE REMAINS BECAUSE MORTURIES TRYING TO CUT CORNERS AND HAVE THE EMBALMERS DO THE WORK. ARE THE MORTUARY SCHOOLS NOW TEACHING HAIR STYLING AND GOOD MAKE UP PROCEDURES? I WISH THEY WOULD, ME I FEEL ITS REALLY IMPORTANT TO MAKE THAT PERSON LOOK LIKE THE PICTURE PRESENTED, BUT I WORKED WITH TWO MANY EMBALMERS AND OTHER'S HOLDING THE POSITION OF PREPARING THE REMAIN'S.............................TOO MANY SAID NO I DON'T NEED THE PICTURE, THEY ARE DEAD AREN'T THEY WHO CARES? TOO BAD, THEIR FAMILIES DO CARE......................................HOPE YOU CAN PASS THIS ON TOO, AND YES I KNOW MAYBE THE SWELLING IN THE MOUTH AREA COULD BE MANY REASONS BUT HEY LICENSED PROFESSIONAL'S THAT'S WHAT YOU ARE AND YOU ARE HERE TO PLEASE THE FAMILIES NOT JUST TAKE A PAY CHECK HOME........................PLEASE LEAVE THIS SIGNED JUST A CONCERNED FAMILY MEMBER.
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In a message dated 4/19/01 8:42:29 PM, Sam in Pennsylvania writes:
John hope you will enjoys these.
Sam
Death And Taxes
A businessman on his deathbed called his friend and said, "Bill, I want you to promise me that when I die you will have my remains cremated." "And what," his friend asked, "do you want me to do with your ashes?" The businessman said, "Just put them in an envelope and mail them to the Internal Revenue Service and write on the envelope, 'Now you have everything!'"
The average man's life consists of twenty years of having his mother ask him where he is going; forty years of having his wife ask the same question; and at the end, the mourners wondering too!
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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
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Sorry, No posts in this issue.
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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.
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.
C YA
John
BOTTOM LINE: WE ALL WORK FOR THE BETTERMENT OF FUNERAL SERVICE PROFESSION AND THE DEATH CARE INDUSTRY THE CONSUMERS WE SERVE AND THE PROFESSIONALS WE WORK WITH. IF YOU SEE ANYTHING WRONG, IF SOMETHING HERE REALLY OFFENDS YOU, LET'S WORK TOGETHER. PLEASE NOTIFY FSPA IMMEDIATELY, YOU CAN E-MAIL TO lowellma@aol.com Or call FSPA in the United States Voice 978-458-6816 Fax 978-459-0115 or the old fashioned way through the mail at FSPA c/o 14 Highland Street Lowell, Massachusetts 01852-3399 USA
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