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In this issue:
¥ Live chat with Freddy Rodriguez
¥ Season Finale on June 2
¥ HBO store
LIVE CHAT WITH FREDDY RODRIGUEZ:
Here's your chance to talk with the actor behind the genius behind Fisher & Sons! On Sunday, May 19, at 10 PM &endash; immediately following the show &endash; we're having a live chat with Freddy Rodriguez, who plays ace restorative artist Federico Diaz. So get your questions ready, and after the show log on to http://www.hbo.com/sixfeetunder
SEASON 2 FINALE ON JUNE 2:
FYI, the final episode of Season 2, "The Last Time," will premiere on
Sunday, June 2 at 9 PM/EDT. Check the site for more information at
http://www.hbo.com/sixfeetunder/
The HBO Store is now open! Go to www.hbo.com/store and check out http://www.hbo.com/sixfeetunder
merchandise from The Sopranos, Sex and the City, Six Feet Under and more!
IN THIS EDITION:
INDUSTRY NEWS
ICFA Past President Shipper Appointed Menorah Gardens' Examiner
ICFA Meets with Senator Dodd's Staff on Potential Legislation
*************************************************************************
ICFA WIRELESS - May 13, 2002 Edition Vol. 3 No. 13
*************************************************************************
ICFA WIRELESS is a biweekly electronic newsletter bringing members of the
International Cemetery and Funeral Association the latest government and
legal, industry and association news. It is available to all ICFA members
current on their dues. Comments, questions and "hot news tips" are welcome.
Write to: mailto:wireless@icfa.org .
ICFA NEWS
ICFA University 2002 Offers Career-Building Opportunities
Dr. Alan Wolfelt to Speak at ICFA "Small" Program
ICFM Magazine Introduces 'Web Extra' Articles
May Preneed Product of the Month: ICFA Presentation Kit
---------------------------
INDUSTRY NEWS
---------------------------
ICFA PAST PRESIDENT SHIPPER APPOINTED MENORAH GARDENS' EXAMINER
ICFA Past President Irwin W. Shipper, CCE, has been approved as the
court-appointed examiner and overseer of Menorah Gardens cemeteries in Palm
Beach County, Florida. Shipper's main function will be to supervise the
resolution of issues between the cemetery's owner, Service Corporation
International, and the various lot owners and families. Shipper is chairman
of the ICFA Government and Legal Affairs Committee and has worked in the
cemetery industry since 1948. He was recommended to the court for the
position of overseer/examiner by the Florida Office of the Attorney General.
Commenting on the appointment, ICFA President Bill Wright, CCE, stated: "I
strongly feel that Mr. Irwin Shipper is the right person for the job. The
people and the authorities in the state of Florida will come to recognize, as
we have in the ICFA, that Irwin has the ability to see all sides of an issue
and will always strive to be an honest broker in matters that affect not only
the industry itself, but most importantly, the consumers. I cannot think of a
finer person to represent all of the affected parties in Florida than Mr.
Shipper."
---------------------------------------------------
ICFA MEETS WITH SENATOR DODD'S STAFF ON POTENTIAL LEGISLATION
Following up on the April 26 public hearing by Sen. Chris Dodd (D-CT), ICFA
staff met with Dodd's staff on Capitol Hill last week. The association had
submitted testimony expressing its concerns with possible efforts to codify
the Federal Trade Commission Funeral Rule -- that is, turn the agency
regulation into a federal statute -- especially when FTC staff revealed they
lack sufficient evidence at this time to justify expanding the Rule to
cemeteries and other sellers. The ICFA is concerned that codification would
politicize the Funeral Rule by allowing special interest groups to pressure
Congress for amendments regardless of the actual need for them.
At the meeting, ICFA learned that Dodd's staff will seek feedback from
various interested parties, including the ICFA, before introducing a bill
into the Senate for consideration. According to his staff, Dodd plans to
introduce a bill in the near future that would address a number of issues in
addition to the Funeral Rule, including a possible grant program to assist
states in enforcing certain types of laws regulating funeral homes and
cemeteries. ICFA members will be kept informed of developments. The text of
Sen. Dodd's statement can be viewed at
http://www.senate.gov/~dodd/press/Speeches/107_02/0426.htm .
---------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------
-------------------
ICFA NEWS
-------------------
ICFA UNIVERSITY 2002 OFFERS CAREER-BUILDING OPPORTUNITIES
Looking for a way to build your cemetery or funeral career? ICFA University,
July 19-24 at the University of Memphis (UM) offers a five-day program of
challenging coursework presented by top industry educators and UM business
department faculty. The small classroom sizes and the productive
extra-curricular networking opportunities make this annual school the
preeminent educational experience in the industry.
Students choose among seven programs:
o College of Funeral & Commemorative Services
o College of Administration & Management
o J. Asher Neel College of Sales & Marketing
o College of Land Management & Grounds Operations
o Executive Management Symposium
o Master's Program
o CEO Program
For complete schedules, course descriptions, prices and registration
information, visit http://www.icfa.org/ICFAU02.htm or call 1-800-645-7700.
---------------------------------------------------
DR. ALAN WOLFELT TO SPEAK AT ICFA 'SMALL' PROGRAM
The ICFA Small Cemetery and Funeral Management Conference, August 22-24 in
Greeley, Colorado, will feature a keynote address by author and educator Alan
Wolfelt, Ph.D., well known for his groundbreaking work in helping funeral
directors and cemeterians in their work with grieving families.
Additional program highlights include a tour of Linn Grove Cemetery;
equipment demonstrations; a table-top trade show; and educational sessions on
topics such as preneed sales, obtaining revenue from outside sources, turf
choices, the September 11 disaster recovery effort and more.
For a complete program and registration forms, visit
http://www.icfa.org/small02.htm or call 1-800-645-7700.
---------------------------------------------------
ICFM MAGAZINE INTRODUCES 'WEB EXTRA' ARTICLES
The May issue of International Cemetery & Funeral Management has introduced a
new feature for readers who have access to the Internet. "Web Extras" provide
additional, more in-depth coverage of selected articles and departments
within the magazine. This month's edition offers readers an insightful
interview with grief author Carol Wogrin, whose book, "Matters of Life and
Death," is reviewed in the issue.
"Our magazine has a reputation for offering more useful, relevant content
than any other publication in the industry," said Managing Editor Susan
Loving. "Now our Web site allows us to build even further on that. We can
take 'extra' material that might be better suited for the Web and give our
readers even more of the information they're looking for."
To check out the May ICFM Web Extras, visit http://www.icfa.org/toc5.02.htm .
---------------------------------------------------
MAY PRENEED PRODUCT OF THE MONTH: ICFA PRESENTATION KIT
For the month of May, the ICFA is offering the ICFA Presentation Kit at HALF
the regular member price. The ICFA Presentation Kit is a complete preneed
burial sales presentation consisting of 43 ICFA sales kit pages. Included at
no extra cost are the Presentation Kit Script and 10 blank bordered pages for
presenting photos of your property, products and services.
If your cemetery or funeral home is not already capturing your preneed market
using this valuable sales tool, this is a great time to start. This is the
ICFA's lowest price ever on this item, so don't miss out: Regularly $42.99;
May price: $21.50!
For additional information, visit http://www.icfa.org/may.htm. To order, call
the ICFA at 1-800-645-7700.
---------------------------------------------------
AND MORE É
If you are not using the ICFA News Page to stay current on news items related
to the cemetery and funeral industry, you're not getting the whole picture.
The ICFA News Page at http://www.icfa.org/newspage.htm now takes you to
sources throughout the world for industry news and updates. It brings you the
most comprehensive selection of funeral service and cemetery news available
anywhere, along with frequently updated general news items related to
national and world events. The News Page is now the fourth most visited page
on the ICFA Web site. Stop in each day and you'll see why.
The ICFA has spearheaded the Music License Coalition to obtain discounted
music licensing for industry members. The goal of the Coalition is to offer a
discount price of $185 annually for licensing from BMI, ASCAP and SESAC
beginning January 1, 2003. Membership in the Coalition is free and is not
tied to membership in any other industry organization. For more information
or to join the Coalition, visit http://www.icfa.org/music/ or call
1-800-645-7700.
The ICFA has announced the winners of its 2001 KIP (Keeping It Personal)
Awards, recognizing the best in personalization in the cemetery and funeral
industry. A complete list of winners and additional information on the KIP
Awards Program is available at http://www.icfa.org/kip.htm.
Need a labor relations and employment law attorney? Check out ICFA's benefit
program offering free telephone legal consultations at
http://www.icfa.org/pepperman.htm .
The ICFA has published its 2001-2002 Buyer's Guide and Membership Directory,
an invaluable industry resource offering complete listings of ICFA member
cemeteries, funeral homes and allied members; industry suppliers;
international, national, regional and state associations; state funeral
boards and cemetery regulators; individuals working in the industry; and
more. A must for all key staff, copies are available for purchase at a member
price of just $25. For information or to order, call the ICFA at
1-800-645-7700.
The ICFA uses a national media placement agency to distribute an ongoing
series of newspaper articles and radio announcements with positive preneed
and memorialization messages. Placements to date have been highly successful,
reaching hundreds of markets throughout the country. For more information and
to view copies of the actual releases, visit http://www.icfa.org/media.htm.
ICFA members can establish their own Web sites for just $14.95 per month,
with no up-front fees. FuneralAssistant.com provides complete Web site
design, up to six pages; monthly site hosting; assignment of a Keyword that
directs Internet customers to the site; and Web site updates. For more
information, visit http://www.icfa.org/WebBenefit.htm .
International Cemetery and Funeral Association
1895 Preston White Drive, Suite 220
Reston, VA 20191
1-800-645-7700
(703) 391-8400
fax (703) 391-8416
http://www.icfa.org
Copyright 2002 International Cemetery and Funeral Association
In a message dated 5/15/02 12:49:55 PM, fspano@nfda.org writes:
Brookfield, Wis. - Picturesque Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, is the site of
the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Leadership Conference,
to be held July 29-31, 2002. This year's event will provide funeral
service professionals with the insight and tools necessary to help them
succeed in today's erratic marketplace. Attendees will participate in
educational seminars and roundtable discussions centering on key issues
affecting funeral service organizations and professionals. The
conference also will focus on the future of funeral service.
"Leaders must adapt to change, manage others through it, and be
champions of change themselves if they are to survive. The NFDA
Leadership Conference is for any funeral service professional who feels
challenged by today's new marketplace, technologies and consumers'
changing expectations," said NFDA President Bob Vandenbergh.
A special pre-conference seminar, "CEO/President Symposium," conducted
by Paul D. Meyer, Tecker Consultants, will be presented on July 28,
2002. This highly interactive program is a must for all association
executive directors and incoming presidents. Additional education
opportunities will feature exceptional speakers teaching marketing,
public relations and image-building ideas for funeral home businesses.
With NFDA's marketing research now complete, attendees also will see
the new direction funeral service must take in order to succeed.
Attendees also may enjoy the activities and attractions
surrounding the conference facility. The Coeur d'Alene Resort is
surrounded by beauty and attendees will have their choice of seeing it
by land, while horseback riding or hiking; by water, on a cruise ship or
while white-water rafting; or by air, in a seaplane charter. The resort
also features a PGA golf course, and nearby theme parks and waterparks
for the family to enjoy.
Funeral service professionals interested in attending the conference
may contact an NFDA member services representative at 800-228-6332.
NFDA is headquartered in Brookfield, Wis., and has an office in
Washington, D.C. It is the world's oldest and largest funeral service
association, serving about 13,500 members. To learn more about NFDA, and
to register for the Leadership Conference, visit our Website at
nfda.org.
###
Fay Spano
Public Relations Manager
National Funeral Directors Assoc.
13625 Bishop's Drive
Brookfield, WI 53005
262-814-1549
fspano@nfda.org
Fay Spano
Public Relations Manager
National Funeral Directors Assoc.
13625 Bishop's Drive
Brookfield, WI 53005
262-814-1549
fspano@nfda.org
********************************************************************
ICFA WIRELESS - May 6, 2002 Special Edition Vol. 3 No. 12
********************************************************************
THIS IS A SPECIAL EDITION OF WIRELESS NEWSLETTER
This edition of the WIRELESS newsletter is a special report on the ICFA 2002
Convention & Exposition, April 24-27 in Orlando, Florida. Broader coverage of
the Convention will be featured in the June/July issue of International
Cemetery & Funeral Management. Photos from the 2002 Convention & Exposition
can be seen in the ICFA Photo Album at
http://www.icfa.org/scrapbook.html#Convention
ICFA WIRELESS is a biweekly electronic newsletter bringing members of the
International Cemetery and Funeral Association the latest government and
legal, industry and association news. It is available to all ICFA members
current on their dues. Comments, questions and "hot news tips" are welcome.
Write to: mailto:wireless@icfa.org .
IN THIS EDITION:
INDUSTRY NEWS
ICFA Files Senate Testimony Opposing Funeral Rule Codification
ICFA NEWS: SPECIAL POST-CONVENTION REPORT
ICFA 2002 Convention & Exposition: Drawing the Independents
ICFA Elects 2002-2003 Officers
ICFA Elects New Board Members
ICFA Presents Certification Designations
ICFA Inducts New Members into Quarter- and Half-Century Clubs
---------------------------
INDUSTRY NEWS
---------------------------
ICFA FILES SENATE TESTIMONY OPPOSING FUNERAL RULE CODIFICATION
On Friday, the ICFA filed testimony with U.S. Sen. Chris Dodd's Health and
Education Subcommittee on Children and Families regarding Dodd's proposal to
codify the Federal Trade Commission's Funeral Rule into a federal statute to
cover every business that sells either funeral goods or services to the
public. The ICFA stated its opposition to codifying the Funeral Rule for
several reasons, citing its concern that such action would "politicize" the
Rule given the emotional nature of the issues involved. Dodd agreed to leave
the subcommittee's April 26 hearing record open to allow the ICFA to submit
comments concerning his proposals for increased funeral home, cemetery and
crematory regulation following recent scandals in Georgia and Florida.
The ICFA is working with Dodd's staff and has provided the association's
Model Guidelines for State Laws and Regulations to support its position of
fostering state oversight and enforcement instead of increased federal
involvement. The complete text of the ICFA testimony to the Dodd subcommittee
can be viewed on the ICFA web page at
http://www.icfa.org/pdf/0502testimony.pdf .
---------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------
-------------------
ICFA NEWS
-------------------
ICFA 2002 CONVENTION & EXPOSITION: DRAWING THE INDEPENDENTS
The ICFA has once again defied downward industry trends, drawing 788 total
participants and a strong attendance among independent cemetery and funeral
home operators at its 2002 Convention and Exposition, April 24-27 in Orlando,
Florida.
Attendance figures for the Convention & Exposition were:
o Cemetery, funeral home and allied business representatives: 392
- One-day registrations: 110
- Three-day registrations: 241
- Exhibit hall only attendees: 41
o Spouse/guest registrations: 79
o Exhibitor and supplier registrations: 303
o Press passes and other complimentary attendance: 14
More than 91 percent of the attendees from cemeteries, funeral homes and
related businesses represented independent companies, and over 100 were
first-time attendees.
The ICFA has gone to great lengths to attract new attendees from independent
companies, an effort that has resulted in a better trade show for the
suppliers, according to ICFA President Bill Wright, CCE.
"Because the association is attracting so much new interest from independent
companies - ICFA members and non-members alike - we're attracting a different
group of Convention attendees than in the past," Wright said. "Many of these
folks are first-timers, and they tend to be very actively interested in the
trade show.
"Also, in the past two years we have restructured the Convention program to
offer more practical information on the days that the Expo Hall is open. This
brings in more people who may not be able to attend the entire Convention. By
attracting attendees from independent businesses, we are able to provide the
'buying units' the suppliers need to see."
Informative, cutting-edge educational topics geared toward independent
operators combined with lower registration fees have proved successful in
growing the Convention, according to Wright. "Beginning last year, we've
lowered registration fees across the board," he said. "A key change is that
we now make it easier and less expensive for people to attend a portion of
the meeting, with lower fees for one-day and exhibit hall passes. We've found
we could reduce our overhead sufficiently to allow us to cut the registration
fees and make it easier for people to get what they need from the Convention.
"ICFA consistently presents an excellent and provocative educational program,
and most people who come to one of our meetings will return for more, but
today's budgets are tight, and many small operators can't get more than a day
or an afternoon away from the office. We want those people to still have the
opportunity to visit the trade show and attend the Convention. They may not
be able to go to the entire Convention, but they see the benefit of attending
a portion."
Attendee and Exhibitor Evaluations
Attendees and exhibitors alike rated the Convention & Exposition highly.
Ninety percent of attendees who responded to an evaluation survey rated the
Convention program overall as "excellent" or "very good," and 70 percent
indicated they were "extremely likely" or "very likely" to attend the ICFA
2003 Convention & Exposition, March 10-13 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Exhibitors were extremely pleased with the quality of the trade show and the
number of decision-makers on hand to discuss purchasing decisions. In a
post-Exposition survey, exhibitor respondents have rated the 2002 Exposition
an average of "8" on a scale of 1 to 10, and 95 percent have indicated they
"definitely" or "probably" will attend the 2003 Convention & Exposition.
In terms of the number of attendees from independent operations, the 2002
Convention ranks as ICFA's second best in the past decade, exceeded only by
last year's Convention in Las Vegas (which is historically the association's
most popular Convention site). However, the number of decision-makers
actually doing business in the trade show this year was greater, according to
exhibitors.
"Even though the official attendance numbers were down from last year, from
the exhibitors' point of view, the numbers were up," said Bernie Frie,
president of the International Memorialization Supply Association and general
manager of Cold Spring Granite Memorial Group.
---------------------------------------------------
ICFA ELECTS 2002-2003 OFFICERS
The ICFA Board of Directors elected the following officers during the ICFA
Convention & Exposition in Orlando:
o President: William L. Wright, CCE, vice president, Fairlawn Burial Park and
Heritage Funeral Home, Hutchinson, Kansas;
o President-Elect: Carol E. Caunter, managing director of marketing, Service
Corporation International, Houston, Texas;
o Vice President, Membership: Thomas Roberts, CCE, president, Allegheny
Cemetery, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania;
o Vice President, Education: David Tobias, president, Tobias Funeral Home,
Dayton, Ohio;
o Vice President, Products and Services: Patrick R. Downey, CCE, vice
president of sales and marketing, Palm Mortuaries and Memorial Parks, Las
Vegas, Nevada;
o Vice President, Industry Relations: Paul Elvig, vice president,
Evergreen-Washelli Memorial Park and Funeral Home, Seattle, Washington;
o Secretary: Douglas P. Whynott, CCE, chief executive officer, Woodlawn
Cemetery Corporation, Everett, Massachusetts; and
o Treasurer: Ray Frew, CCFE, president, Green Hills Memorial Park, Rancho
Palos Verdes, California.
---------------------------------------------------
ICFA ELECTS NEW BOARD MEMBERS
The ICFA named 13 new members to its Board of Directors during its Annual
Convention & Exposition, April 24-27 in Orlando, Florida. Directors elected
to serve three-year terms are:
o Richard F. Cody, CCE, president, Resthaven Memorial Gardens Inc.,
Frederick, Maryland;
o Christine Toson Hentges, general manager and vice president, Pinelawn
Memorial Park, Milwaukee, Wisconsin;
o Keenan L. Knopke, CCE, president and chief operating officer, Northern
Region, Southern Division, Stewart Enterprises Inc., Winter Park, Florida;
o Mark J. Krause, president, Krause Funeral Homes & Cremation Services Inc.,
Milwaukee, Wisconsin;
o Gregory W. Roberts, president, American Cemetery Services and Sherwood
Memorial Gardens, Wooster, Ohio;
o Scott R. Sells, CCFE, area vice president, Service Corporation
International - Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii;
o Gregg Alan Strom, senior vice president - business development, Cornerstone
Family Services Inc., Bristol, Pennsylvania; and
o William P. Tate, CCE, general manager and assistant treasurer, Laurel Hill
Cemetery, Saco, Maine.
The American Municipal Cemetery Council appointment to serve a one-year term
on the Board is:
o Philip J. Carpenter, supervisor, Grandview Roselawn Cemeteries, Fort
Collins, Colorado.
The International Memorialization Supply Association appointment to serve a
one-year term on the Board is:
o Bernie Frie, general manager, Granit-Bronz - Cold Spring Granite Memorial
Group, Cold Spring, Minnesota.
Past presidents elected at the Past Presidents Business Meeting to serve
one-year terms on the board are:
o Andrew J. Conroy III, president, Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum,
Cincinnati, Ohio;
o B. David Daly, CCFE, president, Evergreen-Washelli Memorial Park & Funeral
Home, Seattle, Washington, and Abbey View Memorial Park, Brier, Washington; and
o Arlie T. Davenport Jr., vice president, Greenwood-Mount Olivet Cemeteries
and Funeral Home, Fort Worth, Texas.
---------------------------------------------------
ICFA PRESENTS CERTIFICATION DESIGNATIONS
The ICFA awarded executive certification to several members, including its
first Certified Funeral Executive (CFuE) designation, during the ICFA 2002
Convention & Exposition, April 24-27 in Orlando, Florida.
Certified Cemetery Funeral Executive (CCFE) designations were awarded to:
o Judith Meeks, Ph.D., CCFE, president and chief executive officer, Mount
Pleasant Group, Toronto, Ontario; and
o Ricardo Quiros, CCFE, chief executive officer, Grupo Resurreccion Memorial
Park, Funeral Home and Cremation Services, San Salvador, El Salvador.
Certified Cemetery Executive (CCE) designations were awarded to:
o Victoria C. Hand, CCE, president, Washington Memory Gardens Inc., Homewood,
Illinois;
o Craig L. Lovett, CCE, general manager and treasurer, Lakeview Memorial
Park, Cinnaminson, New Jersey;
o Kenneth A. March, CCE, managing director, North America Sales, Service
Corporation International, Houston, Texas; and
o Ronald P. Robertson, CCE, president, Cemetery Funeral Division, Trans World
Benefits Inc., Irvine, California.
The first ICFA CFuE designation was awarded to:
o Nick Jones, CFuE, CFSP, president, Miller Jones Mortuary & Crematory and
Menifee Valley Memorial Park, Hemet, California.
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 15 persons have
been awarded the CCFE designation, 196 persons have been awarded the CCE
designation, and one person has been awarded the CFuE designation.
---------------------------------------------------
ICFA INDUCTS NEW MEMBERS INTO QUARTER- AND HALF-CENTURY CLUBS
The International Cemetery and Funeral Association (ICFA) inducted several
long-time members into its Quarter- and Half-Century Clubs during its 2002
Convention & Exposition, April 24-27 in Orlando, Florida.
Admitted to the ICFA Half-Century Club was:
o Elmer O. Barth, Calumet Park Cemetery, Merrillville, Indiana.
Admitted to the ICFA Quarter-Century Club were:
o Lowell L. Lohman, Ormond Funeral Home, Ormond Beach, Florida; and
o Jesse R. Pebley, Eglington Cemetery & Memorial Gardens, Clarksboro, New
Jersey.
In a message dated 5/9/02 11:46:06 AM, StephenH@Rock-n-Water.com writes:
<< VOTED BY MANY AS "BEST NEW PRODUCTS" AT THE EXPO!
The ICFA Expo was the first time trade professionals were able to see
Fillmore, Calif.-based Rock & Water Creation's new family of quality
personal, memorial and specialty monuments which address each of the
industry's top-three growth trends: Cremation, Personalization and
Memorialization.
The response was so positive that a company representative said that
most attendees they spoke with easily voted them as the Expo's "Best
New Products!"
Click On The Link Below To Learn More
(Including Wholesale Pricing, Product Photos, etc.)
<http://www.YourMonument.com>www.YourMonument.com
"KEEPING THEIR MEMORY CLOSE TO HOME"
When placed outdoors in a tranquil garden or park, among landscaping
in a front or backyard, or other
appropriate setting, Rock & Water Creations' monuments are the
natural way to celebrate individuals, whether living or departed,
while "Keeping Their Memory Close to Home."
Made to replicate realistic boulders and other items in nature, the
monuments are crafted from a minimum of one-inch thick glass
fiber-reinforced concrete (GFRC) and are hollow and open at the
bottom; allowing their rugged beauty to be surpassed only by their
strength. Large enough at 50-95 lbs. to be considered a true
"monument," yet small enough to be relocated elsewhere if necessary,
each model is manufactured to withstand 9,000psi (pounds per sq.
inch) of pressure to ensure a lasting memorial for future generations.
All theirr monuments are professionally hand-colored by a team of
artisans. A handsome 2.5-lb. bronze plaque (sized 3 1/2" x 7 1/4"),
included in the retail price and pre-installed on each monument
before being shipped via UPS, lets your clients personalize it with
their choice up to six lines of text. You have the choice of
requesting that the company either ship their product to your
business so you can install the cremains--and benefit from the
special touch of then delivering it--or direct to your clients so
they can do it in the privacy of their own home before placing the
monument outdoors.
GET A 40% DISCOUNT OFF WHOLESALE FOR DISPLAY SAMPLES!
Add to this a 40% discount off the company's wholesale price list for
your initial set of samples, marketing support, and a free tabletop
Presentation Book for each of your locations, and Rock & Water thinks
you'll agree their monuments are the obvious answer to boosting your
revenues as you provide your clients with products that will serve as
a beautiful accent to any landscape.
Six Ways Rock & Water's Personal, Memorial Monuments
Can Help You Create New Revenue The "Natural Way"
1. For Those Choosing Cremation
Their various memorial monuments are manufactured with a
moisture-proof, 240 cubic-inch container, easily accessed and
hand-tightened from underneath by you or your client to add the
cremains satchel (simple instructions are included with each monument
shipped).
2. When Someone Has a Traditional Funeral, But Is Buried Far Away
Their lower-priced personal monuments (without a cremains container)
are the answer to memorializing at home someone who has had a
traditional funeral and is buried at a cemetery too distant to visit
frequently.
3. For Those Whose Ashes Have Been, Or Will Be, Scattered On Land Or Sea
Rock & Water Creations' personal monuments are popular with surviving
family or friends whose loved ones have been cremated, but whose
ashes will be, or have been, scattered on land or at sea.
4. For A More Natural-Looking Headstone Or Grave Marker
Depending on your cemetery's policies, a personal monument can be an
attractive and more natural alternative to a headstone, memorial or
grave marker (a heavy metal eyelet featured in each model makes it
simple to lock on a chain and cast it into a concrete-filled hole).
5. For Pet Memorials
After a pet's life has completed, their monuments are a dignified and
natural way of memorializing the love and loyalty your clients' "best
friend" gave them without hesitation over the years.
6. For Weddings, Awards, Birth Announcements And More!
Far from just honoring those who have passed away, their personal
monuments are an ideal way to celebrate the living and the
milestones or accomplishments of their times such as commemorating or
announcing a newborn's arrival, anniversary with an engraved message
like 'Thank You For Being The Rock of My Life For 25 Years!',
weddings, retirements, birthdays, corporate or community awards
(i.e., Salesperson, Volunteer or Police Officer of the Year) or other
special occasion or achievement where a substantial symbol of thanks
for a job well done is deserved.
If you'd like to learn more, visit their web site or give them a call
toll-free in California at 1-866-466-ROCK (7625) ext. 10 weekdays
during regular business hours (Pacific Standard Time).
Click On The Link Below To Learn More
(Including Wholesale Pricing, Product Photos, etc.) http://www.YourMonument.com>www.YourMonument.com
In a message dated 5/8/02 3:09:42 PM, fspano@nfda.org writes:
Contact: Fay Spano
For Immediate Release
800-228-6332
May 8, 2002
President Bush Endorses two NFDA-Supported Issues
The President favors association health plans; and repeal of the death tax
Brookfield, WI On April 4, 2002, President George W. Bush unveiled a
new plan to help American small businesses that endorses two of the
National Funeral Directors Association's (NFDA) top five issues for
2002 - association health care plans and the permanent repeal of the
death tax. The plan also supports NFDA's policy position on regulatory
reform.
According to a statement released regarding the agenda: "The President
believes that low taxes and clear, sensible regulations are essential to
helping all 25 million small businesses in America. Equally important,
the President believes we must work to ensure that employees of all
small businesses have access to high-quality health care and reliable
pensions."
"As a leading voice of the funeral service profession, NFDA strongly
supports legislation that benefits its members and the families they
serve," said NFDA Chief Executive Officer Christine Pepper. "We are very
pleased with the agenda proposed by President Bush and we look forward
to the adoption of these important issues."
The proposed Association Health Plan legislation would:
Reduce the cost of escalating health-insurance premiums for small
business allowing trade associations, such as NFDA, to offer affordable
health insurance to their members and members' employees through ERISA
(Employee Retirement Income Security Act).
The proposed permanent repeal of the death tax would: Permanently
eliminate the federal estate tax on family owned business assets
transferred at death.
In addition, President Bush's agenda states that federal regulations
cost small businesses 60 percent more per employee than it costs large
businesses.
NFDA's policy position on regulatory reform states: "that NFDA
support any and all legislation that would reform the federal, state and
local regulatory process and reduce the costly, burdensome, unnecessary
and redundant regulatory burden on funeral homes."
NFDA is headquartered in Brookfield, WI, and has an office in
Washington, D.C. It is the oldest and largest funeral service
association, serving about 13,500 members.
###
Fay Spano
Public Relations Manager
National Funeral Directors Assoc.
13625 Bishop's Drive
Brookfield, WI 53005
262-814-1549
fspano@nfda.org
In a message dated 5/8/02 2:21:31 PM, danisard@f4sight.com writes:
Dear Friends and Clients,
I am sending this form letter, in the interest of time. There are many
people I want to have this information. Please accept my apology for not
using our staff resources to personalize this letter, but I think as you
read this you will understand.
Several weeks ago, while traveling through Massachusetts, I had a dramatic
sharp shooting pain in my lower right stomach radiating to my lower right
back. Those of you that have had kidney stones have already flinched and
made the accurate diagnosis. When I got to the next stop on my travels in
Pennsylvania I found that the pain was so severe I chose to see a physician
who had me checked out in a hospital. The diagnosis was a kidney stone.
The CAT scan showed the kidney stone, but also showed a growth on the
kidney. I was instructed to have it checked out when I returned to Phoenix.
Upon my return, I contacted the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, and was referred
to a Urologist that is also a kidney surgeon. After undergoing additional
scans with dye the growth shown in the CAT scan was found to be nothing.
However because of the dye and the minute focus of the scan, a small
encapsulated lesion was found in the right kidney in another area. It is
perceived to be renal cell carcinoma. The tumor is about 1 inch in
diameter, and totally encapsulated. The standard of treatment is for a
removal of the portion of the kidney encapsulating the tumor. The location
of the tumor is in a bad spot. A partial removal of the kidney may not be
an option, so the right kidney may need to be removed in full. The surgeon
will make that decision when he is operating. The post surgical prognosis is
very strong, as people live a full and active life with only 1 kidney all
the time. The doctor is clearly encouraged by the unusually small size and
the very early detection of the tumor.
Tests have clearly shown no involvement in any other organ or lymph node. .
If it were not for the kidney stone, this mass would have been undetected.
While I am still in some shock, making the most tasteless of jokes, I
realize how fortunate I am with the serendipitous discovery. How many
people can say they are happy they had a kidney stone?
Due to the small size of the tumor, the doctor is not encouraging rushing to
surgery, but Debbie and I have much to look forward to in the coming months,
with our daughter's Bas Mitzvah. We have scheduled the surgery for May 20th
so I can be at full strength for this joyous event and the NFDA convention.
The recovery time is between 4 and 8 weeks, depending upon many factors
including the type of method needed to remove the cancerous tumor. I expect
to be available for e-mail and light phone calls after about 2 to 3 weeks,
and more work as my stamina increases.
Debbie and I are in total agreement that I am being treated by one of the
most skilled surgeons and medical facilities in the country. We are aware
of the good friends, great clients and wonderful staff we have. Our staff
of Stephanie, Sara, Lesa and Curt has been listening to my bad jokes for 20
years between them. We have met and are making sure that anything needing
my direct involvement is being dealt with before my surgery. Their talents
will give me the ability to rest and recover. I know, you will get the
same high level of service, during my recovery, as you have in the past.
But of course, they don't have the sense of humor I have, for better or
worse.
We will keep you posted with my surgery and recovery.
Dan
RESTON, VA (May 3, 2002) - Carol Caunter, managing director of marketing for North America at Service Corporation International (SCI) in Houston, Texas, was elected president-elect of the International Cemetery and Funeral Association (ICFA) at the ICFA's 2002 Annual Convention & Exposition, April 24-27 in Orlando, Florida.
Caunter is responsible for SCI's branding strategies and marketing initiatives for North America. She has 11 years of marketing experience in the funeral, cemetery and cremation industry and 11 years in the financial services industry.
Caunter has held numerous leadership positions with the ICFA, including vice president of its Educational Steering Committee and its Services and Administration Steering Committee, secretary, board member and chair of the ICFA Marketing Committee. In addition, she was program chair for the ICFA 2001 Convention & Exposition and co-chair for the ICFA 1999 Sales Management and Marketing Conference.
RESTON, VA (May 2, 2002) - The International Cemetery and Funeral
Association (ICFA) elected a new slate of officers during its Annual
Convention & Exposition, April 24-27 in Orlando, Florida. ICFA officers
for 2002-2003 are:
o President -- William L. Wright, CCE, vice
president, Fairlawn Burial Park and Heritage Funeral Home,
Hutchinson, Kansas;
o President-elect -- Carol E. Caunter, managing director of marketing for North America, Service Corporation International, Houston, Texas;
o Vice President, Educational Steering Committee -- David Tobias, president, Tobias Funeral Home, Dayton, Ohio;
o Vice President, Industry Relations Steering Committee -- Paul Elvig, vice president, Evergreen-Washelli Memorial Park and Funeral Home, Seattle, Washington;
o Vice President, Membership Steering Committee -- Thomas Roberts, CCE, President, Allegheny Cemetery, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania;
o Vice President, Products and Services Steering Committee -- Patrick R. Downey, CCE, vice president of sales and marketing, Palm Mortuaries and Memorial Parks, Las Vegas, Nevada;
o Secretary -- Douglas P. Whynott, CCE, chief executive officer, Woodlawn Cemetery Corporation, Everett, Massachusetts; and
o Treasurer -- Ray Frew, CCFE, president, Green Hills Memorial Park, Rancho Palos Verdes, California.
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, memorial designers, crematories and related businesses worldwide.
In a message dated 5/7/02 11:03:12 AM, lacorn@icfa.org writes:
WRIGHT ELECTED ICFA PRESIDENT
RESTON, VA (May 3, 2002) - William L. Wright, CCE, vice president of Fairlawn Burial Park and Heritage Funeral Home in Hutchinson, Kansas, was elected president of the International Cemetery and Funeral Association (ICFA) at ICFA's 2002 Annual Convention & Exposition, April 24-27 in Orlando, Florida.
Wright, a licensed funeral director, has served previously as vice president of the ICFA's Government and Public Affairs Steering Committee, Educational Steering Committee and Membership Steering Committee, and as a board member. In addition, he is a former chairman of the ICFA Small Cemetery and Funeral Operations Advisory Committee and is a member of the Strategic Planning Committee.
In 2001, Wright was awarded a certified cemetery executive (CCE) designation in recognition of his extensive cemetery management experience and skills.
Wright is a past president of the Kansas Cemetery Association and has been active in the Central States Cemetery Association. In addition, he formerly served as a Cemetery Consumer Service Council representative for the state of Kansas.
ICFA CONVENTION & EXPOSITION: A DRAW FOR INDEPENDENTS
RESTON, VA (May 3, 2002) - The International Cemetery and Funeral
Association (ICFA) has once again defied downward industry trends,
drawing 788 total participants and a strong attendance among independent
cemetery and funeral home operators at its 2002 Convention and
Exposition, April 24-27 in Orlando, Florida.
Attendance figures for the Convention & Exposition were:
o Cemetery, funeral home and allied business representatives: 392
- One-day registrations: 110
- Three-day registrations: 241
- Exhibit hall only attendees: 41
o Spouse/guest registrations: 79
o Exhibitor and supplier registrations: 303
o Press passes and other complimentary attendance: 14
More than 91 percent of the attendees from cemeteries, funeral homes and
related businesses represented independent companies, and over 100 were
first-time attendees.
The ICFA has gone to great lengths to attract new attendees from
independent companies, an effort that has resulted in a better trade
show for the suppliers, according to ICFA President Bill Wright, CCE.
"Because the association is attracting so much new interest from
independent companies - ICFA members and non-members alike - we're
attracting a different group of Convention attendees than in the past,"
Wright said. "Many of these folks are first-timers, and they tend to be
very actively interested in the trade show.
"Also, in the past two years we have restructured the Convention program
to offer more practical information on the days that the Expo Hall is
open. This brings in more people who may not be able to attend the
entire Convention. By attracting attendees from independent businesses,
we are able to provide the 'buying units' the suppliers need to see."
Informative, cutting-edge educational topics geared toward independent
operators combined with lower registration fees have proved successful
in growing the Convention, according to Wright. "Beginning last year,
we've lowered registration fees across the board," he said. "A key
change is that we now make it easier and less expensive for people to
attend a portion of the meeting, with lower fees for one-day and exhibit
hall passes. We've found we could reduce our overhead sufficiently to
allow us to cut the registration fees and make it easier for people to
get what they need from the Convention.
"ICFA consistently presents an excellent and provocative educational
program, and most people who come to one of our meetings will return for
more, but today's budgets are tight, and many small operators can't get
more than a day or an afternoon away from the office. We want those
people to still have the opportunity to visit the trade show and attend
the Convention. They may not be able to go to the entire Convention, but
they see the benefit of attending a portion."
Attendee and Exhibitor Evaluations
Attendees and exhibitors alike rated the Convention & Exposition highly.
Ninety percent of attendees who responded to an evaluation survey rated
the Convention program overall as "excellent" or "very good," and 70
percent indicated they were "extremely likely" or "very likely" to
attend the ICFA 2003 Convention & Exposition, March 10-13 in Las Vegas,
Nevada.
Exhibitors were extremely pleased with the quality of the trade show and
the number of decision-makers on hand to discuss purchasing decisions.
In a post-Exposition survey, exhibitor respondents have rated the 2002
Exposition an average of "8" on a scale of 1 to 10, and 95 percent have
indicated they "definitely" or "probably" will attend the 2003
Convention & Exposition.
In terms of the number of attendees from independent operations, the
2002 Convention ranks as ICFA's second best in the past decade, exceeded
only by last year's Convention in Las Vegas (which is historically the
association's most popular Convention site). However, the number of
decision-makers actually doing business in the trade show this year was
greater, according to exhibitors.
"Even though the official attendance numbers were down from last year,
from the exhibitors' point of view, the numbers were up," said Bernie
Frie, president of the International Memorialization Supply Association
and general manager of Cold Spring Granite Memorial Group.
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.
RESTON, VA (May 2, 2002) - The International Cemetery and Funeral Association (ICFA) named 13 new members to its Board of Directors during its Annual Convention & Exposition, April 24-27 in Orlando, Florida.
Directors elected to serve three-year terms are:
o Richard F. Cody, CCE, president, Resthaven Memorial Gardens Inc., Frederick, Maryland;
o Christine Toson Hentges, general manager and vice president, Pinelawn Memorial Park, Milwaukee, Wisconsin;
o Keenan L. Knopke, CCE, president and chief operating officer, Northern Region, Southern Division, Stewart Enterprises Inc., Winter Park, Florida;
o Mark J. Krause, president, Krause Funeral Homes & Cremation Services Inc., Milwaukee, Wisconsin;
o Gregory W. Roberts, president, American Cemetery Services and Sherwood Memorial Gardens, Wooster, Ohio;
o Scott R. Sells, CCFE, area vice president, Service Corporation International - Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii;
o Gregg Alan Strom, senior vice president - business development, Cornerstone Family Services Inc., Bristol, Pennsylvania; and
o William P. Tate, CCE, general manager and assistant treasurer, Laurel Hill Cemetery, Saco, Maine.
The American Municipal Cemetery Council appointment to serve a one-year term on the Board is:
o Philip J. Carpenter, supervisor, Grandview Roselawn Cemeteries, Fort Collins, Colorado.
The International Memorialization Supply Association appointment to serve a one-year term on the Board is:
o Bernie Frie, general manager, Granit-Bronz - Cold Spring Granite Memorial Group, Cold Spring, Minnesota.
Past presidents elected at the Past Presidents Business Meeting to serve one-year terms on the board are:
o Andrew J. Conroy III, president, Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum, Cincinnati, Ohio;
o B. David Daly, CCFE, president, Evergreen-Washelli Memorial Park & Funeral Home, Seattle, Washington, and Abbey View Memorial Park, Brier Washington
o Arlie T. Davenport Jr., vice president, Greenwood-Mount Olivet Cemeteries and Funeral Home, Fort Worth, Texas.
In a message dated 5/7/02 11:13:25 AM, lacorn@icfa.org writes:
RESTON, VA (May 3, 2002) - The International Cemetery and Funeral
Association (ICFA) Women's Forum has named two recipients of its 2002
ICFA University scholarships. Women's Forum Chairman Del Doleman
presented the scholarships at the ICFA Convention & Exposition, April
24-27 in Orlando, Florida, to Giselle Tessier-Corder, general manager at
Santa Rosa Memorial Park in Santa Rosa, California, and Katherine
Scimmi, general manager and bereavement facilitator at McKenzie & Blundy
Funeral Home & Cremation Centre in Sarnia, Ontario.
The recipients each will receive a full scholarship to ICFA University,
July 19-24 at the University of Memphis in Memphis, Tennessee. ICFAU is
an intensive educational program for cemetery and funeral home managers,
owners, operators and prospective managers.
The scholarships were sponsored by eight industry suppliers: American
Cemetery Supplies Inc., BLP Bronze International, Crematory
Manufacturing & Service, Ferno Washington Inc., Granit-Bronz - Cold
Spring Granite Memorial Group Inc., Matthews International Corp.,
Trigard Vaults and Wilbert Funeral Services Inc.
The program and registration forms for the 2002 ICFA University are
available at http://www.icfa.org/ICFAU02.htm. Applications for the 2003
ICFAU Scholarship can be downloaded at
http://www.icfa.org/pdf/icfau03.pdf The program and scholarship
application also can be obtained by calling the ICFA offices at
1-800-645-7700.
RESTON, VA (May 3, 2002) - The International Cemetery and Funeral Association (ICFA) awarded executive certification to several members, including its first Certified Funeral Executive (CFuE) designation, during the ICFA 2002 Convention & Exposition, April 24-27 in Orlando, Florida.
Certified Cemetery Funeral Executive (CCFE) designations were awarded to:
o Judith Meeks, Ph.D., CCFE, president and chief executive officer, Mount Pleasant Group, Toronto, Ontario; and
o Ricardo Quiros, CCFE, chief executive officer, Grupo Resurreccion Memorial Park, Funeral Home and Cremation Services, San Salvador, El Salvador.
Certified Cemetery Executive (CCE) designations were awarded to:
o Victoria C. Hand, CCE, president, Washington Memory Gardens Inc., Homewood, Illinois;
o Craig L. Lovett, CCE, general manager and treasurer, Lakeview Memorial Park, Cinnaminson, New Jersey;
o Kenneth A. March, CCE, managing director, North America Sales, Service Corporation International, Houston, Texas; and
o Ronald P. Robertson, CCE, president, Cemetery Funeral Division, Trans World Benefits Inc., Irvine, California.
The first ICFA CFuE designation was awarded to:
o Nick Jones, CFuE, CFSP, president, Miller Jones Mortuary & Crematory and Menifee Valley Memorial Park, Hemet, California.
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 15 persons have been awarded the CCFE designation, 196 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 ICFA 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
RESTON, VA (May 3, 2002) - The International Cemetery and Funeral Association (ICFA) inducted several long-time members into its Quarter- and Half-Century Clubs during its 2002 Convention & Exposition, April 24-27 in Orlando, Florida.
Admitted to the ICFA Half-Century Club was: o Elmer O. Barth, Calumet Park Cemetery, Merrillville, Indiana.
Admitted to the ICFA Quarter-Century Club were:
o Lowell L. Lohman, Ormond Funeral Home, Ormond Beach, Florida; and
o Jesse R. Pebley, Eglington Cemetery & Memorial Gardens, Clarksboro, New Jersey.
In a message dated 5/6/02 3:19:35 PM, Mike Flynn writes:
I regret to inform you of the death of Mrs. Margaret G. O'Donnell, 81 of North Quincy, MA. She was the mother of Massachusetts Funeral Director's Assn. Executive Director, Margaret M. Nolan.
Visiting hours will be on Tuesday May 7th from 4-8 PM in the Keohane Funeral Home, 785 Hancock St. in Quincy. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday May 8th at 10:00 AM in Sacred Heart Church in Quincy.
Donations in her memory may be made to the Bosotn Catholic Television Center, 55 Chapel St. P.O. Box 9109, Newtonville, MA 02171.
Margaret O'Donnell Of Quincy, May 4, 2002. Wife of the late Bernard A. O'Donnell. Loving mother of Margaret M. Nolan of Weymouth, Bernard J. of Sandwich, John F. of Bridgewater, Stephen T. of Quincy, and the late Gerard M. O'Donnell. Beloved twin sister of Josephine R. Guerriero of North Quincy. Sister of the late Timothy J. and Patrick F. Sheehan and the late Helen M. Chambers. Also survived by 12 grandchildren. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the funeral from the Keohane Funeral Home, 785 Hancock St., WOLLASTON, Wednesday at 9:00 AM. Funeral Mass in Sacred Heart Church, North Quincy at 10:00 AM. Visiting hours Tuesday 4:00-8:00 PM. Burial in Pine Hill Cemetery, Quincy. Donations in memory of Mrs. O'Donnell may be made to Boston Catholic T.V., 55 Chapel St., P.O. Box 9109, Newtonville, MA 02158 or to Sacred Heart School Dev. Fund, 20 Glover Ave., North Quincy, MA 02171. For directions www.keohane.com.
Jeff Sandler's father Jeff is from Milso Casket Co. /Malden Casket
Harry Sandler Entered Eternal Rest on May 3, 2002, of Winthrop formerly of Malden. Devoted husband of Naomi (Menitoff) for 64 years. Beloved father of Marilyn & the late Robert Stempler, Linda & Howard Rosov and Jeffrey & Ellen Sandler. Dear brother of David Sandler, the late Bernard Sandler and Bessie Sarfaty. Adored grandfather of Randi Chen, Andrew Stempler, Deborah Viveros, Rachel Rosen, Kara Sandler and Sean Sandler. Cherished great grandfather of 9 great grandchildren. Loving uncle of Dr. Jack Sandler, Edward Sarfaty, Stanley Sarfaty, Rabbi Michael Menitoff and Dr. Paul Menitoff. Services at the Goldman-Fisher Funeral Chapel, 174 Ferry St., MALDEN on Sunday, May 5 at 12:00 Noon. Interment in Sharon. Condolence calls may he made at his late residence, 898 Shirley St., Winthrop thru Thursday from 2-5 PM and 7-9 PM each day. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be donated to the American Cancer Society, 25 Stuart St., Boston, MA 02116. Goldman Fisher Chapel 781-324-1122
In a message dated 5/5/02 10:35:42 AM, Mike Flynn in Massachusetts writes:
Well the 1st Metro Boston Funeral Director night out was a success. We will have to do it again in a few months. Thank you to the following people for coming
Mike Flynn
Dave Mosher, Milso Casket
Sean Sweeney, Sweeney Casket
Michael Smith, Smith FH, Chelsea
Courtney Dolan & Guest, Dolan FH Milton
Marc & Jen Fleming, Aurora Casket,
Craig Lacouture, Hickey Greneier FH Brockton
Dan Biggins &Guest, Magoun Biggins FH ,Rockland
Jim Heald, Manzi FH Worcester
John Heald, Pre-Need Professionals
Tom Biggins & Guest
Mike Phelps, Solimine, Landergan & Rhodes, Lynn
Lisa Smith, Solimine, Landergan & Rhodes, Lynn
Jed & Megan Dolan, Dolan FH Milton
Troy Schuler, Levine Chaples, Brookline
Julie Carter, OCME Boston
John O'Dea , Bell-O'Dea Brookline
Jimmy Brasco, Brasco Memorial, Waltham
Christine Glynn ;- Bell - O'Dea, Brookline
Mike Flynn - F.J. Higgins Funeral Home, Roslindale
and sorry if i missed anyone else
Well, it finally happened!
The Louisiana funeral board took formal action. I (and Casket Stores of America, LLC a Mississippi company) have had a Cease and Desist Order placed.
We have been ordered to "IMMEDIATELY Cease and Desist the sale of funeral merchandise [including caskets) to the general public together with any further involvement in the Funeral Service Profession within the state of Louisiana as to those particular duties reserved for a licensed funeral director."
Has this at last opened the door to the violation of my Federal rights? As you know, all that I have done is deliver caskets from Mississippi. If I cannot deliver, then how can any of the airlines deliver a casket, how can the freight companies deliver a casket, (say from the airport to the funeral home). Remember, we are talking about the deliver of an EMPTY BOX.
And if we are going to talk about ALL FUNERAL MERCHANDISE, THEN
How can anyone in Louisiana be involved in INTERSTATE COMMERCE?
What has happened to the Federal Anti trust act?
And,
How can any department store sell clothing for a dead person?
How can any independent flower shop deliver flowers?
How about the Hallmark shop send cards?
Does this give the funeral homes an EXCLUSIVE FRANCHISE to be the only
company that can administer any funeral merchandise? IN LOUISIANA EXCLUSIVE FRANCHISES HAVE BEEN QUESTIONED.
I hope (at last) that they have overstepped their area to administer.
I intend to go to the federal court and appeal this order. I have not and do not SELL in Louisiana.
The facts: Casket Stores of America, LLC is a MISSISSIPPI company, that I do not own by the way, where Casket Royale and others won the right to sell caskets. Any Louisiana resident that "finds out" how to save $2-3000 and exercises their own rights should not feel that they have broken the law, and be intimidated. The company only sells over the Internet, or by a customer calling the NATIONAL 800 number. LET'S BE VERY CAREFUL HERE, The Internet and long distance should not be controlled by the LOUISIANA BOARD OF EMBALMERS AND FUNERAL DIRECTORS!
I have ONLY delivered goods (caskets) into Louisiana as a federal citizen involved in INTERSTATE COMMERCE, which is protected by federal law, and should not be under any Louisiana law.
Jerry Womack
Monroe, LA
318.387.1700 days
Pepperell loses 'a very good man'
By Don Eriksson
PEPPERELL -- The community lost a well-liked and highly respected member Tuesday afternoon with the unexpected death of longtime Funeral Director William Hamilton. Hamilton died on the Hamilton Funeral Home property he owned on Main Street in partnership with John J. McGaffigan Jr. Hamilton had owned the funeral home since the mid 1960s. Universally known for his unselfishness and good cheer, the news of Hamilton's passing comes as a shock to his many friends and acquaintances in and out of this community."I've known Bill for many years. He was a nice man, a very generous guy," former sewer commissioner Ernest Morton said Wednesday.Morton recalled that the 63 year-old Hamilton had been one of the founders of the Dunstable/Tyngsboro Lions Club as well as a former member of the Pepperell Lions. Hamilton was also a member of the Westford Lodge of Elks.
Edward Hayward of L. F. Robbins Insurance Company, who arrived in town in 1965, said that Hamilton was a founding member of the JC's.
"He got me into the JC's in 1967," Hayward said from his Main Street office. "He stayed until he reached maximum age (at that time about 35)." He said Hamilton was also a Mason as well as a member of the planning board.
"He was running the funeral home when I cam into town," Hayward said. "He was into everything."
To Derek TenBroeck of McDuffee Insurance Agency, who admits he has not known him very long, Hamilton was the kind of individual who "always made me laugh, always made me smile."
"I will miss him very, very much," TenBroeck emphasized. "Billy was very well respected in the area."
John McNabb, owner of McNabb's on Main Street, was a longtime friend. He described the former funeral director as a "very, very kind man. He was generous and always trying to help people."
For example, if someone needed chairs for a social event, McNabb said Hamilton would leave folding chairs on the porch of the funeral home to be used at no charge. All he asked was that they be returned. Also a notary public, Hamilton would drive over and seal a document at no charge.
McNabb said he knows for a fact that many times, when a death occurred in a family that was not well off, Bill Hamilton would complete the services at greatly reduced cost. At least once when a baby was stillborn, McNabb remembers, Hamilton provided a casket and buried the infant at no charge.
"He tried to provide a service," McNabb said. "Basically he just tried to help.
"I am very, very sad," McNabb concluded. "The town lost a very good man."
Perhaps an even better description of the man comes from Joe "Joe the Barber" Lisio, whose small establishment saw Hamilton two or three times a day when he dropped in to chat.
"You couldn't help but like Billy," Lisio says. "He liked to shop and asked me to shop with him." Reiterating McNabb's chair story, Lisio said that Hamilton did the things he did for reasons other than money.
"He had a good outlook on life," Lisio continued. "He was part of my life almost every day and was the kind of guy who'd leave you laughing." Hamilton would tell Lisio what he was cooking. "He was a good cook," Lisio continued, confirmed when a batch of home made lasagna was brought in one day.
Lisio chatted with Hamilton just hours before his sudden death. "He was in a great mood," Lisio reported.
"I never expected it," he said of the sudden death. "I miss the guy."
William Hamilton Of Pepperell, April 30, 2002. Husband of Judith (Duggan) Hamilton of West Townsend, 3 daughters Karen M. Carlitti of VA, Lynne E. & husband Wayne Newman of Ayer, and Allison R. & husband Patrick Colpoys of Tewksbury, a grandson Scott and granddaughter Katherine Newman of Ayer, 3 brothers Charles of Hampden, ME, Milton of Pepperell & Bernard Hamilton Jr. of Taunton and a sister Doris Kemp of Pepperell and a special friend Anna K. Morton of Pepperell, 5 nieces & 4 nephews & several grand nieces and nephews. Funeral Services Saturday at 1 p.m. at the Community Church of Pepperell, Townsend St. Visiting hours at the Hamilton Funeral Home, 37 Main St., PEPPERELL, Friday 4-8 p.m. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Bill's memory to Loaves and Fishes, P.O. Box 1, Ayer, MA 01432
In a message dated 5/3/02 3:35:40 PM, jschoenecker@nfda.org writes:
Contact: Fay Spano For Immediate Release
Dave Kneib May 3, 2002
800-228-6332 NFDA
#11/02
NFDA Launches a New Look for its Virtual Trade Show
Brookfield, WI&emdash; The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) has
unveiled a new look for their Virtual Trade Show (VTS), an interactive
Website that allows funeral service suppliers to reach thousands of
potential customers. The VTS was originally launched as part of NFDA
Online in 1998.
"The VTS is designed specifically to generate interest, exposure and
traffic, as well as provide consumer interaction for NFDA trade show
exhibitors and advertisers throughout the year," said NFDA Chief
Executive Officer Christine Pepper. "It offers the most successful
elements of a trade show from news and networking opportunities to
educational offerings, and it is all available via the Internet."
The VTS isReceived: from GRPWISE-MTA by organized in five sections: the VTS Lobby, Information
Booth, Expo Center, Exhibitor Services, and Press Room. The Expo Center
offers virtual trade show booths in eight categories: Burial, Computers
& Technology, Cremation, Education & State Associations, Financial
Services, Funeral Homes, Supplies, and Other Products & Services. From a
VTS booth, visitors can obtain product and educational information, view
merchandise, contact suppliers and place orders.
Visitors to the VTS may also view a Resource Directory, which includes
contact information for funeral service advertisers and vendors.
Visitors looking for a particular exhibitor also may search the site by
name or by product or service. The VTS is accessible through NFDA's
Website, www.nfda.org.
NFDA is headquartered in Brookfield, Wisconsin, and has an office in
Washington, D.C. It is the world's oldest and largest funeral service
association, serving about 13,500 members. To learn more about NFDA,
visit www.nfda.org.
In a message dated 5/3/02 2:27:59 PM, lacorn@icfa.org writes:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Robert M. Fells
703-391-8400
800-645-7700
ICFA FILES SENATE TESTIMONY OPPOSING FUNERAL RULE CODIFICATION
Reston, VA -- May 3, 2002 -- The International Cemetery and Funeral
Association (ICFA) has filed testimony with U.S. Senator Chris Dodd's
Health and Education Subcommittee on Children and Families regarding
Dodd's proposal to codify the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) Funeral
Rule into a federal statute to cover every business that sells either