We are meeting in Orlando on Sunday October 7, 2001 at 8 pm in the Rosen Centre Hotel (next door from convention center) in " THE LOBBY LOUNGE ". If your going to convention and would like to meet others from around the country and the world. This is this is the seventh time we will host such a get together, so, if your all by yourself or you have a friend please come by and say hello you can meet other Funeral Service Professionals to enjoy the Convention with. I'll be there with a sticker for your badge if you like. FSPA's get together, IS FREE, NO TICKETS, WE WILL TAKE PICTURES FOR THIS YEARS CONVENTION POSTING. Airline tickets can't get much cheaper and my room is only $70. a day! I don't get a car the shuttles are great no parking or hassles for directions! I'm looking forward to it and I hope you can find the time to drop down to Florida for a few days, if you miss the meeting or need to be in touch, Ill be at the Red Roof Inn 407-352-1507 also next to the Convention Center. If your pretty sure your coming to our get together please email me so I can be on the look out for you. Thanks!
In a message dated 9/2/01 1:18:41 PM, writes:
The Louis Berger Group, Inc. is preparing a proposal for archaeological services to the City of St. Louis Airport Authority for planned expansion of Runway W-1W at Lambert-St. Louis International Airport. The expansion will require relocation of an estimated 120 graves at the nearby Bridgeton Memorial Park Cemetery. Archaeological investigation is required because the cemetery has been determined as eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places and because the grave markers were removed by the City in 1959 when the cemetery was thought to have been abandoned. The estimated number of graves is based on a list of names placed on a memorial at the cemetery in 1963.
The earliest known burial is about 1843 and the latest is 1954. However, the cemetery was set aside in a plat dated 1794 for the French Village a Robert, which later became Bridgeton, Missouri.
The proposal for the work must be submitted by September 6, 2001. Therefore, immediate response is critical. Interested persons should contact:
Chris Schoen, Archaeologist
THE LOUIS BERGER GROUP, INC.
950 50th Street
Marion, Iowa 52302
cschoen@louisberger.com
(319) 373-3043 (319) 373-3045 (fax)
***** END OF MESSAGE *****
In a message dated 9/2/01 1:19:09 PM, AOL Member sends us:
By WSAZ Charleston
CHARLESTON, WV, Aug. 23 - The state medical examiner's office mixed up deer remains with those of a murder victim. The mixed-up remains were cremated and sent to the victim's family in Cleveland The mistake came to the attention of state medical examiner James Kaplan last year when a torso believed to be that of David Allen Williams was found in a storage facility at the office.
Williams' body was recovered from the New River in 1998 and some of his remains were sent to a forensic anthropologist in an attempt to identify him.
Kaplan says when those remains were returned, staffers mistakenly substituted unmarked deer bones that had been brought to the office to determine if they were human.
The former chief investigator at the office, Rodney Sloan, was reportedly fired for the mistake and is appealing the dismissal to Kanawha County Circuit Court.
The cause of Williams' death wasn't known until another man confessed to the murder.
Williams' sister says she isn't interested in getting her brother's partial remains back, but does want an 850 dollar refund for the cremation costs.
Skip Jones Funeral and Cemetery Consulting and Expert Witness 916-205-1346 www.cwo.com/~skip
In a message dated 8/30/01 12:58:57 PM, skip@cwo.com writes:
New role for an old Folsom building: A former post office is turned into a mortuary that isn't your average funeral parlor.
By Lakiesha McGhee
Bee Staff Writer
(Published Aug. 30, 2001)
It was 1983 when Bobbie Pontious began working at a small post officeon Coloma Street in Folsom. She said she remembers a dim and dreary boxed-shape building with cracked ceiling beams and a troubling bat problem.
That old building had bats that would get in through the cracks of the walls,; said Pontious, now the customer service supervisor at
the new Folsom post office on Riley Street just a few blocks away. We used to joke that the place must have been a bat cave at one time,; she said, laughing fondly at the memory. Prior to Pontious' employment at the post office, a huge storm caused the
ceiling to cave in, and workers were transferred to another site on Sutter Street. They returned to the Coloma Street office a year later, but its condition was still pretty grim. We were working under hazardous conditions for a couple of months, said Arnie Appel, who has been working for the Folsom post office for 37 years.
That was decades ago. Since then, the property that sits in Folsom's historic district at 610 Coloma has undergone many changes.
What was once a drab and decaying post office for most of its lifespan was converted to a church in 1997. For three years, members of the community had to get used to the idea that Sunday morning services were being held at the place where they had dropped off their mail.
Then, last May, the property underwent another change. It's now a newly remodeled funeral home decked by eclectic design and a state-of-the-art audio-video system for new-age memorials.
You would be surprised at how many people will come in here just to reminisce; said Anita Cockrell, the receptionist at Green Valley Mortuary. It's amazing how people can develop an emotional tie to their post office. Cockrell said every now and then, people from the neighborhood will walk into their lobby and point out where their postal box used to be. She said many can't believe their eyes when they see the renovations. It cost Dennis and Michelle Hamilton, the couple leasing the property, $750,000 -- not including the elegant furnishings -- to refurbish the building.
The nine-room mortuary is graced with a mixture of cherry-wood coffee tables and stands, European and traditional-style seating, plush carpeting and marble floors. And the chapel, which seats 250 people, has a 10-foot video projection screen that drops from the ceiling. That alone cost $70,000. The project took about five months, according to Michelle Hamilton, who designed the changes. We wanted to create an atmosphere where people focus a little less on the grief and more on the positive memories," Dennis Hamilton said.
The entire mood is unlike what one expects from a funeral home. Except for the pews and one small retail room where customers choose from a selection of casket sides mounted on the wall, one might never guess that the light and airy building was a place of mourning.
As for the postal employees who used to work there, life is good now. We were happy to come to the new office, said Pontious. I haven't been to old building since the remodel, but I'm curious to see how it looks.
In a message dated 9/7/01 11:41:56 PM, Lyn in Massachusetts writes:
From: "George P. Connick"
Dear colleagues:
I received the following sad news late yesterday.
Bruno Bak, president of Worsham College, passed away Wednesday, September 5, 2001, in Chicago. Visitation will be held at the Drake and Sons Funeral Home (625 Busse Highway) from 2 to 9 p.m. on Sunday, September 9th.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, September 10th at St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church, 3320 W. Washington Park, Ridge, IL. Entombment will be in All Saints Mausoleum.
Bruno was president of Worsham College of Mortuary Science and a member of NFDA, IFDA, FDSA, and the British Institute of Embalmers. He was an instructor at Worsham College for 40 years and a licensed funeral director and embalmer for over 52 years.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Bruno B. Bak Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o Worsham College, 495 Northgate Parkway, Wheeling, IL 60090.
George
George P. Connick, Ph.D.
Executive Director
American Board of Funeral Service Education
38 Florida Ave.
Portland, ME 04103
Cell Phone: (207) 408-7184
Office Phone: (207) 878-6530;
FAX: (207) 797-7686
Web: www.abfse.org
In a message dated 8/30/01 12:08:55 PM, LSNCFDA writes:
NCFDA E-Line (Obit)
August 27, 2001
Julian Jenkins
Mr. Julian Jenkins, 73, of Stoneville and father of Joseph Jenkins a funeral director from Mayodan, died on August 29, 2001.
The funeral service will be held at 8:00 PM on Thursday, August 30, at Colonial Funeral Home & Chapel Inc. in Madison and at 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 1, at Demaines Funeral Home in Springfield, VA.
The family will receive friends from 7:00 &endash; 9:00 PM on Thursday at Colonial Funeral Home and 7:00 to 9:00 PM on Friday at Demaines Funeral Home. Burial will follow in National Memorial Cemetery, Falls Church, Virginia.
Memorials may be made to Hospice of Rockingham County, P.O. Box 281, Wentworth, NC 27375.
In a message dated 8/22/01 11:22:07 AM, Mfdaneft writes:
Here's an e-mail version of the MFDA News that was sent via fax broadcast today to all members with dedicated fax lines and mailed to members without.
We're sending along an e-mail version in the event that you find this method of transmission better for you.
Ronald E. Harrell
President
Nurse Pronouncement Legislation: A hearing was held at the State House before the Government Regulations Committee regarding Senate Bill No. 4268 -- a bill further regulating the issuance of death certificates. If enacted, this legislation would impose the legal responsibility on the employer of a registered nurse who is authorized to pronounce a death to procure an accurately completed death certificate for delivery to the funeral establishment or other authorized person.
Preliminary reports from legislators indicate that MFDA members have been doing a good job of educating their elected officials about the problems in securing accurately completed death certificates, especially when there is a nurse pronouncement. We have had a very positive response from several key legislators who have an excellent understanding of what is happening and a real concern about the problem. As the summer draws to a close and legislators are in their home districts before returning to the State House, it is crucial that you continue to educate them about the problems you encounter and the importance of accountability within the current system.
Several points to remember:
* Please do not argue that the nurse pronouncement process is inconvenient to you and your staff. While we recognize this important fact, this should not be your legislative approach.
* Recognize the fact that this proposal does not fine registered nurses, but rather their employers who have adopted the policy decision of using nurse pronouncements. Correct those who tell you that this is a bill designed to penalize registered nurses. This is not the case or the intention of the proposal!
Senate Bill No. 61/Will you be unfairly taxed by the Massachusetts DET?
This legislation titled "an act relative to certain workers in the funeral home industry" is very important to you and the current and future operation of your business. If enacted, the legislation will require that the Department of Employment and Training (DET) stop their current practice of reclassifying some independent contractors as funeral home employees and thus assessing the "employer" for back taxes, interest and penalties to file and pay. Most typically these independent contractors are trade embalmers, drivers, funeral assistants and others who work on a lump sum per funeral basis. (This legislation was filed by Senators Brian P. Lees, Michael R. Knapkis and Jo Ann Sprague.)
Feedback from members on this bill has been very interesting. First, we have heard from several firms who are wholeheartedly in support of this legislation and are very familiar with the problem as they have been fined by DET. Others, don't understand why the Association is behind the issue as it has not been a problem to date for their firm.
It is very important that all members aggressively support this legislation. The bill has been sent to the Senate Rules Committee for further review. MFDA members in districts represented by Committee members will be asked to contact their legislator. In the interim, consider how your firm would react if hit with DET penalties totaling thousands of dollars per year because you use a trade embalmer or other person on an independent contractor basis. Your help and support is needed!
MFDA Fall Meeting: The educational programs are very informative and our speakers are recognized as national experts in their fields. You will want to plan to attend even if your CEU requirement is complete!
Need one CEU? Need all five? Want them in one day or over two? Day and/or evening? MFDA's Fall Meeting, a continuation of our year long Professional Continuing Education Series will help you achieve your goal.
Our speakers are nationally recognized; our facility is convenient for everyone and our program is offered with our money back guarantee for members.
Some of our workshop choices will includeÉ
* Establishing Your Funeral Home as a Community Resource
* A Healthy Back Safety Training Program
* Serving Cremation Oriented Families in Unique Ways
* Skills for Dealing with Difficult People During Funeral Arrangement Conferences
* Long Bone Donation Technical Workshop
* A Facilitated Panel Discussion of Creative Funeral Service Professionals
* Achieving Balance in Your Funeral Service and Personal Life
* An Academy of Professional Funeral Service Workshop
plus more to be announced...
October 24 - October 25
Crowne Plaza Hotel
Natick, Massachusetts
Watch your mail for more details and plan to attend.
NFDA Convention: Do you plan to attend the NFDA Convention in Orlando? If so, please call, write or e-mail the MFDA office so we can add you to the list to send you more information about an exciting get together that's being planned at Epcot on the evening of October 7th. Its an International Dessert Party held at a VIP viewing area for the spectacular Illuminations show at Epcot. Several of our other New England State Associations will be joining with us for this fun event. Mark the evening of Sunday, October 7th on your calendar and order your tickets when available. It will be a great night to see your Massachusetts/New England colleagues in Disney and enjoy this spectacular event at Epcot Center.
OSHA Sessions: Don't forget about our upcoming OSHA Seminars scheduled on September 11th, 12th and 13th.
Registrations should be returned to MFDA as soon as possible. Call the office for a registration form.
State Board Update: Thank you to the many members who complimented the Association on our statement to the Massachusetts State Board of Funeral Directing and Embalming regarding their proposed changes to the rules. We have been told that the Board has taken the following action:
(1) Agreed to put aside the proposal to create an inactive status for the time being with further ongoing review to attempt to reach a solution for those who are unable to complete their CEU requirements due to illness or other infirmity, etc. (You will recall that this section would require that some licensees would be forced to relinquish their ownership interests if enacted in the form presented in the proposed regulations.)
(2) Increase the number of continuing education units needed to 8 for the next licensing year commencing November 1, 2001, however effective that date the Board will accept OSHA related training credits. Keep in mind that this change will not be effective until the next licensing year, but should resolve much of the confusion regarding what is acceptable for continuing education compliance.
(3) The Board is continuing to discuss several of the other issues raised through the public hearing and we will continue to dialogue with them regarding these important matters. (For more information review the statement and follow up communication forwarded to the Board from the Association.)
State Board CEU Sessions: Two members of the State Board of Funeral Directing and Embalming have asked us to remind you about their upcoming CEU sessions, which are open to all licensees. For more information, please contact the State Board member who is hosting the local event...
August 28, 2001/Worcester State College - Science and Technology Building
1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. The Board of Registration, in conjunction with Elaine Trudeau, the Registrar of Vital Statistics for Massachusetts will conduct a continuing education program. Ms. Trudeau will discuss Electronic Death Registration and Nurse Pronouncements. The Board will provide information on the changed regulation that affect all licensees. There will also be a discussion of the labor shortage facing our industry both in new students right through retention of licensees. Participants will earn 5.0 CEU's for complete participation. For directions to the campus, please fax your request to 508-793-1939 and a map will be sent by return fax. We look forward to seeing you and to your participation in this time discussion. Sincerely, Jack Kazlauskas, CFSP, Chairman, Board of Registration /Funeral Service
September 25, 2001 / Salem State College - Martin Luther King Room (Main Campus)
Elaine Trudeau, Registrar of Vital Statistics 1:00 - 2:l5 1.5 CEU
New England Organ Bank Representatives 2:30 - 4:30 2.0 CEU
For more information or directions contact Board Member Frank Murphy @ 978-744-0497
(Following the Board will be available for any questions or discussion.)
MFDA 2001 Legal Update a Great Success!
Thanks to seminar participants that have told us that the seminar featuring NFDA Legal Counsel Scott Gilligan was GREAT! Fifty registrants had an opportunity to review FTC funeral rule compliance including dealing with shoppers, third party merchandise, cremation liability, FMCSA regulations, the Gramm-Leach Biley Act, wage and hour developments and EPA/Septic Tank regulations. And this was just Day One. Day Two covered a wide range of legal issues including discussion of Massachusetts's regulations. As nearly every participant stated, "this guy knows his stuff!".
Reminder Preneed Annual Reports: While it appears that most of you have already done so, we need to remind those who have not returned the Preneed Annual report that it needs to be immediately completed and returned the Massachusetts State Board. Reminder: the Board's offices are now at 239 Causeway Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02114. The report was due on July 1. The Board has discussed the possibility of conducting an "audit" of these reports during the upcoming year. If you need another copy of the report form, please contact the Board @ 617-727-1718. (Participants of the New England Funeral Trust will remember that this form has been completed as part of the program's service to its participants.)
Discount Tickets Available: Thanks to our organization's participation in the Massachusetts Association of Recreation and Employee Services we are able to offer you and your staff some of the recreation benefits currently available only to much larger companies. Currently we have available for sale on a first come first served basis:
Water Country/Portsmouth, NH: $21.00 per adult ticket (at gate $27.99) - good through 9/2/02.
Tickets are limited, however if you would like to purchase any for your use, as thank you gifts for your staff and their family or to donate to local church/youth groups, contact Betty or Tara at the MFDA office.
We can also offer memberships to the Adventure Club, which offers discounts for SeaWorld, Adventure Island, Water Country U.S.A., Sesame Place and Busch Gardens. Also the Walt Disney Magic Kingdom Club now offers discounted memberships to Association members. Benefits of that program include reduced rate park admission and accommodations. Please Contact Tara or Betty is you are interested in membership in either of these discount clubs.
Deadline for CEU Credits is October 31st!
Do you Have Yours?
MFDA Sponsored CEU Seminar on October 24th and 25th. You can earn your CEU credits on either day or a combination of the two. Mornings not convenient? Get your credits by attending the afternoon sessions. Afternoons a headache? Attend the morning sessions. Either way you can obtain the credits you need. Watch your mail for details.
In a message dated 8/28/01 6:51:26 AM, Gail in Rhode Island writes:
Hi, We have a CPC Conference Sponsored by the RIFDA Scheduled for September 5-7 in the Madeira Restaurant, 288 Warren Avenue, East Providence, RI. Cost is $405. Register with National / Colleen Murphy Klein /Funeral Service Educational Foundation (at 1-877-402-5900) Gail Hoey, Providence, RI. Sorry to see you didn't have it up on your Site. Thanks, Gail
MORE
Certified Preplanning Consultant, An NFDA Program.
The Purpose:
To grant national recognition to qualified, knowledgeable individuals who are committed to considerate and ethical preplanning services for all families.
CPC certification is designed to promote the integrity and professionalism of those who are eligible to sell or assist in the sale of preneed goods and services under applicable state laws. It is not designed or intended to encourage preneed sales activity by individuals who are not permitted to engage in such activities under state law.
Sponsored by RIFDA.
The Mdeira Restaurant, 288Warren Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914
Wednesday, September 5, 2001-8:30 - 4:30 pm
Thursday, September 6, 8 am - 4 pm.
Friday, September 7, 2001
CPC Exam 8:30 - 10:45.
Registration:::::
Funeral Service Educational Foundation
1325 Bishop's Drive
Brookfield, WI 53005
1-877-402-5900 Colleen Murphy Klein
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ICFA WIRELESS - September 4, 2001 Edition Vol. 2 No. 18
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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 FOIA Request for FTC Consumer Complaints
ICFA Rebuts 'Business of Death' Newspaper Series
ICFA NEWS
ICFA Launches 'Preneed Product of the Month' Discounts --
September Special: ICFA Recruiting Tools
Fall Conference Registration Deadline Nears
Vote for ICFM!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
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ICFA FILES FOIA REQUEST FOR FTC CONSUMER COMPLAINTS
As it has done in the past, the ICFA recently filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request with the Federal Trade Commission to determine the number and types of consumer complaints involving cemeteries that have been filed with the Commission within the last two years. Earlier requests revealed few complaints, but the FTC has launched an ambitious "consumer awareness" program where, through a toll-free number, the Internet, and e-mail, consumers are urged to file complaints with the agency.
Through the industry-sponsored Cemetery Consumer Service Council, the ICFA works with the Cremation Association of North America, the Central States Cemetery Association, the Southern Cemetery Association, and various state associations to assist consumers and to informally resolve disputes. Responses from the FOIA request allows the ICFA to compare FTC complaint volume and types with its own data to detect the likelihood of emerging areas of concern. The results are also important in the FTC Funeral Rule review proceedings, which are expected to resume in the near future.
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ICFA REBUTS 'BUSINESS OF DEATH' NEWSPAPER SERIES
Recently, the Virginian-Pilot newspaper in Norfolk, Virginia, published a three-part series called "The Business of Death" that provided a forum for industry critics to bash the funeral profession. The ICFA has filed a rebuttal pointing out that the series "was devoted more to frightening your readers with anecdotes than providing them with 'news you can use' in the planning of funerals and burials." The ICFA noted that while funeral planning is "one of the most important end-of-life issues that all of us must deal with...many people prefer just not to think about it. Your series of articles did little to persuade readers to give their funeral plans some priority."
The articles repeated AARP's advice not to prepay a funeral but failed to warn of the dangers when funds set aside for the funeral are depleted to pay the costs of the final illness, leaving nothing for the funeral. The ICFA concluded its comments stating, "Funeral preplanning, including prepayment, resolves many more problems than it causes." The full text of the ICFA rebuttal can be found at http://www.icfa.org/vapilot_letter.htm .
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ICFA NEWS
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ICFA LAUNCHES 'PRENEED PRODUCT OF THE MONTH' DISCOUNTS --
SEPTEMBER SPECIAL: ICFA RECRUITING TOOLS
Beginning this month, the ICFA will offer special promotional discounts on selected products from the ICFA Services and Products Catalog. WIRELESS recipients will receive exclusive early notice of these discounts.
To kick off the campaign, the ICFA is drastically reducing prices on its modern, easy-to-use recruitment tools for the month of September. Our full-color recruiting flyer, "Once You Understand the Concept, You'll Love the Opportunity" describes the importance and potential of selling preneed, both for cemeteries and funeral homes. Regular price: $13 per set of 100; September price: $5 per set of 100! Our "More Than Just a Selling Job" audio tape contains a succinct four-minute presentation explaining the value of a career in prearrangement sales. Regular price: $2.50 per tape; September price: $0.75 per tape! For additional information, visit http://www.icfa.org/sept.htm .
To order or to obtain a copy of the ICFA Services and Products Catalog and order form, call 1-800-645-7700, ext. 216.
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FALL CONFERENCE REGISTRATION DEADLINE NEARS
September 24 marks the deadline for the early registration discount and hotel reservation cut-off for the ICFA Fall Management Conference. Members who register on or before that date will save $86 off the regular registration fee. Reservations made after that date will be accepted on a space-available basis.
The ICFA Fall Management Conference, October 24-27 at the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines in San Diego, California, will challenge attendees with the theme, "Has Anyone Moved Your Cheese Yet?" In addition to educational programming, attendees will have opportunities to participate in golf and tennis tournaments, networking receptions and a closing dinner.
For information and registration materials, contact the ICFA at 1-800-645-7700 or visit http://www.icfa.org/educ2.html .
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VOTE FOR ICFM!
ICFA members consistently name International Cemetery & Funeral Management magazine the most informative, respected publication in the industry. Here's your chance to make your voice heard. Visit
http://www.funeralwire.com/pollBooth.php?pollID=2 and cast your vote!
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AND MORE ...
The ICFA Small Cemetery and Funeral Management Conference, September 10-12 at the Atlantic City Hilton Casino Resort in Atlantic City, New Jersey, offers operators of small and mid-sized locations opportunities to network, learn and share ideas. This year's program includes sessions on customer service, management legal pitfalls, grounds care, media relations, building heritage and more. For a copy of the program and registration forms, visit http://www.icfa.org/educ2.html or call the ICFA Meetings Department at 1-800-645-7700.
The ICFA KIP (Keeping It Personal) Awards recognize the best in personalization in the cemetery and funeral services industry. All ICFA members are eligible to attend, including cemeteries, funeral homes, monument retailers, suppliers and related businesses. The deadline for entry is January 15, 2002. For additional information and an entry form, visit http://www.icfa.org/kip.htm .
The ICFA offers videotapes of presentations from Naked Sales I, the highly successful 1999 Sales Management and Marketing Conference. Videos of Naked Sales II and III will be available this fall. Prices vary; to receive a complete listing of tapes and an order form, call ICFA Member Services Administrator Alex Toth at 1-800-645-7700, ext. 216.
Since April 2000, the ICFA has waged an ongoing media campaign to educate consumers about the value of remembrance, memorialization and preplanning for cemetery and funeral expenses. For more information and to view copies of the news releases, visit http://www.icfa.org/media.htm .
The ICFA's 2000-2001 Buyer's Guide and Membership Directory is available for purchase at a member price of just $15, while supplies last. To order copies, print out a form at http://www.icfa.org/membershipdirectory.htm or call 1-800-645-7700, ext. 216.
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 .
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 .
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NOTE TO AOL USERS
There have been problems reported accessing the links in the document for people using AOL e-mail addresses. Until we find a workaround for this, you may need to type in or cut and paste the e-mail and Web addresses to access these links.
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CHANGE E-MAIL
If you want to change the e-mail address for receiving ICFA WIRELESS, please send an e-mail to mailto:wireless@icfa.org. Type "e-mail address change" in the subject line. In the body, type in your name, company name, city, state, current e-mail address and preferred new e-mail address.
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UNSUBSCRIBE
If you want to unsubscribe from ICFA WIRELESS, please send an e-mail to mailto:wireless@icfa.org. Type "unsubscribe" in the subject line. In the body, type in your name, company name, city, state, and e-mail address.
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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
www.icfa.org
and Here is an older ICFA Wireless
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ICFA WIRELESS - August 21, 2001 Edition Vol. 2 No. 17
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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
Multistate Tax Commission Approves ICFA Model Law on Funeral Trusts
ICFA Responds to NY Times Anti-Preneed Story
LA Retailer Challenges Restrictive Casket Laws
ICFA NEWS
O'Sullivan Seminars Aim to Boost Selling Power
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INDUSTRY NEWS
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MULTISTATE TAX COMMISSION APPROVES ICFA MODEL LAW ON FUNERAL TRUSTS
The Multistate Tax Commission (MTC), a professional association of state tax departments, has approved a proposed ICFA model law on the taxation of funeral trust income. Initially, the MTC had proposed that state income tax due on trust earnings should be determined by the state of residence where each purchaser lives. The ICFA pointed out the difficulties of attempting to keep track of hundreds or perhaps thousands of customers' domiciles through the years for state taxation purposes.
The ICFA proposed that the state of the trust's residence should determine the state of taxation. However, the MTC expressed some concern that funeral trusts might relocate to states having no income tax. To address this concern, the ICFA recommended that the seller providing the merchandise or services would also be considered the resident state in the event a particular state had no trust requirement. The MTC subsequently reviewed and approved this approach. The model law will now be evaluated by the individual states to determine whether each wishes to adopt it.
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ICFA RESPONDS TO NY TIMES ANTI-PRENEED STORY
The ICFA has responded to an August 12 article in The New York Times titled, "The Perils of Planning Own's Own Prepaid Funeral." While the article praised both the ICFA and NFDA Web sites for providing consumer information, the story ignored the considerably greater "perils" of at-need funeral purchases. In its response, the ICFA stated, "The Federal Trade Commission said it best when it documented the severely disadvantaged position of consumers when making at-need arrangements. These include emotional trauma, guilt, dependency and suggestibility, ignorance, and time pressure. Prearranged or 'preneed' funeral plans can substantially reduce, and may eliminate, all these factors."
The ICFA pointed out that the Times article missed a number of opportunities to help consumers become informed preneed shoppers. For example, consumers can tell unwanted phone callers to place them on a "Don't Call" List mandated by federal law, and the fact that industry codes of ethics and model guidelines prohibit calls to hospitals, nursing homes, and hospices. "If your readers had this type of information, they could easily detect the bad apples." The complete text of the ICFA response can be found at http://www.icfa.org/nyt_letter.htm .
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LA RETAILER CHALLENGES RESTRICTIVE CASKET LAWS
Yet another private lawsuit has been filed in federal court challenging a state law that restricts the retail sale of caskets exclusively to licensed funeral directors. This time, a casket retailer in Louisiana alleges that the state law allowing only funeral directors to sell caskets is unconstitutional. The lawsuit follows one filed in Oklahoma federal court earlier this year. Last year, federal courts in Tennessee and Mississippi struck down similar state laws as unconstitutionally restricting the sale of caskets.
The state funeral boards that defend the complaints argue that specialized training in mortuary science school is necessary to protect the public health and safety in the sale of caskets. However, the courts thus far have disagreed with this rationale. The federal court in Tennessee stated its concerns succinctly:"No health and safety reason rationally relates to requiring an individual to undergo two years of training, pay a fee, and pass a test in order to sell a casket." Developments in the Oklahoma and Louisiana lawsuits will be reported as they occur.
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ICFA NEWS
----------------
O'SULLIVAN SEMINAR AIMS TO BOOST SELLING POWER
The ICFA and preneed sales expert Gary O'Sullivan, CCE, have developed one-day seminars designed for cemetery and funeral preneed sellers and family service staff. Sessions include "Integrity and Ethics in the Sales Process," "How to Always Have People to See," "The Power Uses of Any Planning Guide," "Power Skills for Referrals," "The Service of Family Service" and much more.
Seminars are scheduled for October 4 in Columbus, Ohio, and October 16 in Atlanta, Georgia; additional locations may be announced for spring 2002. The complete program and registration information are available at http://www.icfa.org/osullivan01.htm or by calling the ICFA Meetings Department at 1-800-645-7700.
---------------------------------------------------
AND MORE ...
The ICFA Small Cemetery and Funeral Management Conference, September 10-12 at the Atlantic City Hilton Casino Resort in Atlantic City, New Jersey, offers operators of small and mid-sized locations opportunities to network, learn and share ideas. This year's program includes sessions on customer service, management legal pitfalls, grounds care, media relations, building heritage and more. For a copy of the program and registration forms, visit http://www.icfa.org/educ2.html or call the ICFA Meetings Department at 1 800-645-7700.
The ICFA Fall Management Conference, October 24-27 at the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines in San Diego, California, will challenge attendees with the theme, "Has Anyone Moved Your Cheese Yet?" In addition to educational programming, attendees will have opportunities to participate in golf and tennis tournaments, networking receptions and a closing dinner. For information and registration materials, contact the ICFA at 1-800-645-7700 or visit http://www.icfa.org/educ2.html .
The ICFA KIP (Keeping It Personal) Awards recognize the best in personalization in the cemetery and funeral services industry. All ICFA members are eligible to attend, including cemeteries, funeral homes, monument retailers, suppliers and related businesses. The deadline for entry is January 15, 2002. For additional information and an entry form, visit http://www.icfa.org/kip.htm .
The ICFA offers videotapes of presentations from Naked Sales I, the highly successful 1999 Sales Management and Marketing Conference. Videos of Naked Sales II and III will be available this fall. Prices vary; to receive a complete listing of tapes and an order form, call ICFA Member Services Administrator Alex Toth at 1-800-645-7700, ext. 216.
Since April 2000, the ICFA has waged an ongoing media campaign to educate consumers about the value of remembrance, memorialization and preplanning for cemetery and funeral expenses. For more information and to view copies of the news releases, visit http://www.icfa.org/media.htm .
The ICFA's 2000-2001 Buyer's Guide and Membership Directory is available for purchase at a member price of just $15, while supplies last. To order copies, print out a form at http://www.icfa.org/membershipdirectory.htm or call 1-800-645-7700, ext. 216.
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 .
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
www.icfa.org
Copyright 2001 International Cemetery and Funeral Association
This message was sent by The International Cemetery & Funeral Association.
In a message dated 8/20/01 3:38:01 PM, Walter in Tennessee writes:
http://foxnews.com/story/0,2933,32482,00.html
Casket Sales Mean Big Bucks for Funeral Homes
Sunday, August 19, 2001
Does the funeral-home industry have a death grip on casket sales?
A lawsuit in Louisiana claims that family members can be fleeced because they are not about to shop around. It's a monopoly on the casket racket, according to the suit.
Jerry Womack, an independent casket maker, said he tried to sell caskets in Louisiana, but received a letter from the Funeral Home Directors and Embalmers Association saying he was violating state law.
Only funeral homes can sell caskets, the group said. So Womack filed suit.
"With the Louisiana law, it has a tremendous penalty for violation. It takes the public's right of choice away from them," Womack said.
It's not just an issue in Cajun country. A suit is pending in Oklahoma, where others are fighting to overturn laws that prohibit the independent sale of caskets.
The laws remain unchallenged in Virginia and South Carolina, and a handful of states have similar laws that are generally not enforced. Several other states have overturned their similar laws.
As a result of a casket-law repeal, the Direct Casket Outlet opened, selling caskets at a drastically reduced price. The repeal proved to be a boon for families in Kansas City, Mo.
"We're talking about $3,695 vs. $1,400 for exactly the same product," Womack said.
Even the National Funeral Directors Association leans away from restrictive laws.
"I think it's a good thing that consumers can compare prices," a spokesman told the Fox News Channel. "Competition by and large makes business, products and services better."
So what's the problem? State associations like the old laws, some say.
The Funeral Home Directors and Embalmers Association of Louisiana refused to comment for this story.
But before the dearly departed arrive at a Louisiana cemetery, their families will definitely be speaking with them.
In a message dated 8/27/01 8:49:10 AM, jschoenecker@nfda.org writes:
Contact: Laura Glawe, For Immediate Release
Director of Communications August 20, 2000
262-814-1530 NFDA 15/01
NFDA Stands By State Associations and Members
Brookfield, WI - At its August 1, 2001, meeting, NFDA's Executive Board unanimously reaffirmed its earlier position in support of the Florida Funeral Directors Association (FFDA) by returning the Independent Funeral Directors of Florida's (IFDF) application to exhibit at NFDA's 2001 Annual Convention and International Exposition in Orlando, Florida.
"As part of its strategic focus, NFDA is committed to enhancing and building relationships with our state associations," said Christine Pepper, NFDA acting executive director. "Unifying our state associations and members is a priority of ours, and when faced with this difficult decision, NFDA's Executive Board acted in the best interest of its members and the current federated structure of associations."
Section A of Article V of NFDA's constitution prohibits NFDA from recognizing more than one state association from a particular state, and the Florida Funeral Directors Association holds the membership charter for Florida. "NFDA is backing FFDA in its efforts to represent
funeral service in the State of Florida and is sending a consistent message to Florida funeral directors as to which association we support as our member," Pepper said.
-more-
NFDA Stands by State Associations and Members - 2
Pepper added that letting a competing funeral association exhibit to recruit members would be in bad taste, especially since FFDA has been the established host organization for NFDA's 2001 Convention.
NFDA has been and continues to be in contact with the sixty-some individuals who are joint members of NFDA and IFDF. "Most individuals have expressed an understanding of what has occurred and have stated they'll see us in Orlando," Pepper said.
"There is a damaging wedge that exists among some funeral service organizations, which is dividing our profession and must come to a halt," Pepper said. "The challenges we face as a profession are too great and require those of us in funeral service to work together better."
In an August 7, 2001, letter to IFDF, NFDA stated they would be willing to serve as a facilitator so that IFDA and FFDF might explore possible steps toward unification, citing that funeral service is best served with one organization speaking for the profession nationally and at the state level.
For more information, contact Christine Pepper at 800-228-6332 or cpepper@nfda.org, or NFDA President John Carmon at 860-688-2200 or jccarmon@aol.com.
NFDA is headquartered in Brookfield, WI, and has an office in Washington, D.C. It is the world's oldest and largest funeral service association serving about 13,500 members.
ON THE OTHER HAND!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a message dated 9/2/01 12:56:03 PM, Steve in Arizona writes:
Dear John,
What do NFDA and Gary Condit have in common? They both went to the same school of public relations damage control. When confronted with an embarassing miststep they react by lying and stonewalling.
NFDA's response for banning an independent Florida funeral directors group from displaying at the convention? "They have nothing to sell". As if the colleges and other funeral directors group does? They lose their spine to truthfully defend a decision. When important issues like the integrity of funeral service is at stake, they lose their voice.
It's discouraging and disheartening and it's about time we held these officers responsible for shameful behavior.
John Carmon, Connie Chung is waiting for your Prime Time interview.
Steve, Arizona
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a message dated 9/02/01 5:22:57 PM, Tom in New York writes:
John,
With all the hoopla over NFDA excluding Independent FD's Association from their Convention, NFDA gives e-mail addresses out to Companies, (See the paragraph below) wonder when I'll be hearing from Batesville? OR one of their endorsed companies? NFDA may be all about staff, all about survival at any cost, long live Brook field, Wisconsin. I know it's our own laziness for letting what was our association turn into a association for its on survival, I should have paid more attention when you announced NFDA's support of forced overtime for time off at the bosses discretion, seems only the larger companies want that, lately the word is NFDA going back to counting funeral homes, well they should, they do only represent the Large Funeral Home Association, the little guys like me and you don't have a chance. Off the soap box thanks for your service.
Wonder if they sell the Members Directory on CD, I find it hard to believe all those names were entered by hand!
REMOVE: Your e-mail address was entered into our database using the NFDA directory. Out of respect for your privacy, our database is not available to any person or entity outside of Eternal Dimensions. Though we expect to have only few occasions to send messages to you throughout the year, we absolutely respect your right to not receive unsolicited e-mails. To be removed from our e-mail database, please reply to this message showing "REMOVE" in the subject line; your name will be deleted immediately.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a message dated 8/19/01 2:01:04 PM, Mike in Massachusetts writes:
Here is a death notice I saw in last Mondays Globe. I think everyone should read this!! Hope it doesn't choke up to many of you.
Mike
Death Notices
Janet R. Vaughn
Of Holliston, August 11, 2001, Janet R. (Ryan) Vaughn, 55, died at the Metro West Leonard Morse Hospital in South Natick from colon cancer. "Probably the only advantage of knowing that you are going to die is that you can write your own obituary... I leave my husband and best friend. Dallas, after over 30 years of marriage. Without Dallas I never would have survived as long as I did nor would I have wanted to. I also leave my two daughters. Amy and Jill, and Jill's husband Mike Patno. My daughters have been more like sisters to me with all the fun and good times we have had together. I leave my two brothers, David Ryan and his wife Ginny, and Ronnie Ryan and his wife Bette. I was the youngest and was expected to live the longest....but it didn't happen that way. Last but not least, I leave my constant companion, my spoiled rotten dog, Charlie. I had an enjoyable career for over 17 years at EG&G, Inc., later Perkins-Elmer, Inc. I made many good friends and had many interesting times over the years. There will be no calling hours. Burial will be private. Please try to remember me alive and laughing. And finally I leave all this pain and sickness and now find out what I've wondered all my life...,"What happens now?" Goodbye to all - Janet.
Published in the Boston Globe on 8/13/2001.
Below on the lighter side!
In a message dated 8/30/01 10:52:28 PM, Fred in Massachusetts writes:
> A woman from the deepest, most southern part of Alabama goes
> into the local newspaper office to see that the obituary for
> her recently deceased husband is written.
>
> The obit editor informs her that the fee for the obituary is
> 50 cents a word. She pauses, reflects and then says, "Well,
> then, let it read 'Billy Bob died'."
>
> Amused at the woman's thrift, the editor says "Sorry ma'am,
> but there is a 7 word minimum for all obituaries."
>
> Only slightly flustered, she thinks things over for a few
> seconds and says, "in that case, let it read,
> 'Billy Bob dies - 1983 pick-up for sale' >>
In a message dated 8/31/01 3:04:53 PM, eternal@core.com writes:
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You can see this new cremation urn - including a "virtual view" - on our website at http://www.eternaldimensions.com/urn/index.html.
Wholesale prices are available to funeral homes and distributors. For your convenience, we accept MasterCard, Visa, American Express, and Discover as well as your company check. You can also open an account with us and have 30 days to pay. For a printable credit application, visit http://www.eternaldimensions.com/urn/credit.htm.
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GET CURRENT WHOLESALE PRICES AND SALES PROMOTIONS BY E-MAIL: Simply send a blank e-mail to EDIupdates@GetResponse.com. Current wholesale prices and sales promotions will be sent to you by e-mail automatically.
***
REMOVE: Your e-mail address was entered into our database using the NFDA directory. Out of respect for your privacy, our database is not available to any person or entity outside of Eternal Dimensions. Though we expect to have only few occasions to send messages to you throughout the year, we absolutely respect your right to not receive unsolicited e-mails. To be removed from our e-mail database, please reply to this message showing "REMOVE" in the subject line; your name will be deleted immediately.
In a message dated 8/28/01 8:20:28 PM, Marsha in DC writes:
WASHINGTON, Aug. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- People who arranged burial of loved ones in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) national cemeteries in 2000 gave VA workers some of the highest marks for service in a national survey of users of federal government programs.
Researchers asked questions about the quality of services, interactions of staff members with the public and the helpfulness of information. The responses averaged 93 out of a possible 100 on the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI). That was 22 points above the ACSI score for all private-sector services and 25 points above the federal government score. Results over 80 are considered excellent.
"These results tell us our VA national cemetery employees are on the right track of attentiveness and responsiveness to veterans and their families, especially in a time of great sadness. Honoring our heroes in perpetuity and providing compassion to their families are among VA's highest callings," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Anthony J. Principi.
First used by large companies, the ACSI is a measurement produced by the University of Michigan Business School, the American Society for Quality and a government management consulting group.
The survey was conducted in the first quarter of 2001 with 648 people who were next of kin or others who had arranged for interment in a VA national cemetery within six to 12 months of the survey.
Another measurement, "user trust," ranked VA's cemeteries at 96 because those surveyed were extremely willing to say positive things about how well the VA's National Cemetery Administration provides final resting places for veterans. Respondents also said they relied on VA to meet veterans' burial needs and maintain its cemeteries as national shrines.
The ACSI is a national indicator of customer evaluations of quality of goods and services, the only across-the-board industry measure of customer satisfaction. Since 1999, it has included 30 federal agencies that deal with 90 percent of the government's public customers. It issues numerical rankings of companies, agencies and economic sectors on a 100-point scale.
Information on VA burial benefits can be obtained from VA's national cemetery offices, by calling VA regional offices toll-free on 1-800-827-1000 or from VA web sites on the Internet at http://www.va.gov or http://www.cem.va.gov .
MAKE YOUR OPINION COUN
SOURCE U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
CO: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; American Customer Satisfaction Index
ST: District of Columbia
IN: ARO
SU: EXE
08/22/2001 14:37 EDT http://www.prnewswire.com
In a message dated 9/4/01 8:12:13 PM, Angie in Orlando, Florida writes:
John I hope this is good news! You'd better come to Florida, come and hear the whole story!
TORONTO, Ontario, Sept 4 (Reuters) - A U.S. Bankruptcy Court judge has cleared the way for Loewen Group Inc.'s creditors to vote on the funeral home and cemetery operator's reorganization plan, the company said on Tuesday.
The company, which sought protection from creditors in 1999 under a $2.3 billion mountain of debt, said it is optimistic creditors will approve the plan, which has been endorsed by its senior secured debt holders.
The reorganization of North America's second-largest "death services" provider was complicated by the discovery midway through the process that paperwork needed to secure about $1 billion of its debt may not have been filed.
Loewen is said to value the reorganized company at about $1.5 billion. Secured creditors will be paid in new debt instruments and shares in the new company. Unsecured creditors will be paid in shares.
The company said it expects to know the results of the vote by Nov. 6. A final confirmation hearing in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware has been scheduled for Nov. 27.
18:42 09-04-01
MORE
TORONTO, ON, Sept. 4 /PRNewswire/ - The Loewen Group ("the Company") today announced that the Disclosure Statement related to its Fourth Amended Plan of Reorganization has been approved by the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. The approval, granted at a hearing held today, clears the way for the Company to proceed with creditor voting on the Plan of Reorganization and Disclosure Statement.
John Lacey, Chairman of The Loewen Group, said: "With this approval, we are set to enter the final phase of the reorganization process, a process that has involved extensive negotiations over the past two years. We believe that through these negotiations we've created a Plan of Reorganization that is truly in the best interest of our stakeholders. The fact that our principal creditor groups and the Official Unsecured Creditors Committee have pledged their support for the Plan is very encouraging, and we are pleased to be moving forward with the vote."
Consistent with the schedule submitted to the Court, a Fourth Amended Plan of Reorganization and Disclosure Statement will be mailed to creditors no later than September 14, 2001 for the purpose of voting. Revisions included in the Fourth Plan and Disclosure Statement reflect the availability of updated financial data, the impact of additional negotiations with the Company's principal creditors, and modifications to the Disclosure Statement ordered by the Bankruptcy Court.
It is anticipated that creditor voting will be completed by November 6th. The U.S. Bankruptcy Court is then expected to hold a confirmation hearing, with the dates of November 27-29, 2001 having been set aside by the Court for this session.
"We are optimistic that our Plan of Reorganization will be accepted by both our secured creditors and the Courts, according to the schedule that has been established," said Mr. Lacey. "It is a schedule that puts us on track to emerge from bankruptcy protection before the end of 2001," he added.
Based in Toronto, The Loewen Group Inc. currently owns or operates approximately 970 funeral homes and 350 cemeteries across the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. The Company employs approximately 11,000 people and derives approximately 90 percent of its revenue from its U.S. operations.
Safe Harbor: Certain statements contained in this press release, including, but not limited to, information regarding the status and progress of the Company's reorganization, the plans and objectives of the Company's management and the Company's assumptions regarding such performance and plans, are forward looking in nature. Factors that could cause actual results to differ from the forward looking information contained in this release include, but are not limited to, the following: uncertainty regarding the continued progress and timing of the Company's reorganization; the resolution of issues relating to certain indebtedness of the Company and other issues presented by the reorganization; the acceptance of the Company's proposed Plan of Reorganization; general economic conditions; the Company's ability to implement its business plan; the Company's future competitive position; and the continued progress of the Company's disposition program.
SOURCE The Loewen Group Inc.
CO: The Loewen Group Inc.
ST: Ontario
IN:
SU:
09/04/2001 17:14 EDT
In a message dated 8/14/01 2:55:48 PM, Ron in California writes:
Absolutely amazing!!!
Whether you're a Democrat or Republican, or you don't care, this will shock you. It is short and to the point. The end of the e-mail is unbelievable (well considering who it is, maybe not).
Our Senators/Congressmen do not pay into Social Security, and, therefore they do not collect from it. Social Security benefits were not suitable for them. They felt they should have a special plan. Many years ago they voted in their benefit plan. In more recent years, no congress person has felt the need to change it.
After all, it is a great plan.
For all practical purposes, their plan works like this: When they retire no matter how long they have been in office, they continue to draw their same pay until they die, except it may be increased from time to time by the cost-of-living adjustments.
For example, former Senator Bill Bradley (NewJersey) and his wife may be expected to draw $7,900,000.00 over an average life span, with
Mrs. Bradley drawing $275,000.00 during the last year of her life. Their cost for this excellent plan! ! is "0," nada, zilch. This little perk they voted in for themselves is free to them. You and I pick up the tab for this plan.
Our tax dollars at work! Social Security, which you and I pay into every payday for our own retirement, with an equal amount matched by our employer, we can expect to get an average of $1,000 per month.
Or, we would have to collect our benefits for 68 years and 1 month to equal the Bradley's benefits. Imagine for a moment that you could structure a retirement plan so desirable, a retirement plan that worked so well, that Railroad Employees, Postal Workers, and others who were not in the plan would clamor to be included. This is how good Social Security could be, if only one small change was made. That change would be to jerk the Golden Fleece Retirement Plan out from under the Senators/Congressmen. Put them into the Social Security plan with the rest of us. Watch how fast they fix it!!!! ! If enough people receive this maybe a seed will be planted, and maybe good changes will evolve.
Don't forget, our girl, Hillary Rodham Clinton, thanks to the infinite wisdom of New York State voters, now comes under this Congressional
Retirement Plan.
Talking about the Clinton's, it's common knowledge that, in order for her to establish NYS residency, they purchased a million house in upscale Chappaqua, NY. Makes sense. Now, they are entitled to Secret Service protection for life. Still makes sense. Here is where it becomes interesting.
A residency had to be built in order to house the Secret Service agents. The Clinton's now charge the Secret Service rent for the use of said residence and that rent is just about equal to their mortgage payment, meaning that we, the tax payers, are paying the Clinton's mortgage and it's all perfectly legal. >>
In a message dated 8/17/01 12:54:23 PM, LSNCFDA writes:
NCFDA E-Line
August 17, 2001
IN MEMORIAM
A. Victor (Vic) Kirkman, Sr.
A. Victor (Vic) Kirkman, Sr., 88, former co-owner of Davidson Funeral Home of Lexington, died on Friday, August 17, 2001. Mr. Kirkman still held an active directors and embalmer's license that he acquired in 1937.
The funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, August 20, at the First Baptist Church in Lexington. Burial will follow in Forest Hill Memorial Park. The visitation will be from 6:00 &endash; 8:00 PM Sunday at Davidson Funeral Home, Lexington Chapel and other times at the home.
Mr. Kirkman is survived by his wife, Maria Beck Kirkman to whom he was married for 69 years; and a son, Dr. A. Victor Kirkman, Jr. and wife Jacqueline of Charlotte.
Memorials may be made to: First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 436, Lexington, NC 27293 or Hospice of Davidson County, P.O. Box 1941, Lexington, NC 27293.
In a message dated 8/13/01 3:14:38 PM, LSNCFDA writes:
August 13, 2001
Wayland Judd "Dusty" Rhodes, Sr.
Mr. Dusty Rhodes, 97, of Raleigh, NCFDA's official convention photographer for many years, died on Sunday, August 12, 2001. Mr. Rhodes was a former salesman with Imperial Casket Company until his retirement when he went with Brown-Wynne Funeral Home until his health forced his second retirement.
He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Minnie Florence Herring Rhodes; a son, Wayland J. Rhodes, Jr. of Raleigh and one granddaughter, Cheryl Rhodes Pope and her husband, Bryan Pope of Dallas, Texas; two sisters and several nieces and nephews.
Graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, August 15, at Montlawn Memorial Park in Raleigh. The family will receive friends at Brown-Wynne Funeral Home, St. Mary's Street, from 7:00 &endash; 8:30 PM on Tuesday, August 14.
Memorials may be made to Alzheimers Association, 400 Oberlin Road, Suite 208, Raleigh, NC 27605-1351.
In a message dated 8/12/01 3:26:30 PM, lacorn@icfa.org writes:
RESTON, VA (August 9, 2001) &endash; Looking for a job? Trying to find
qualified employees? Hoping to sell one of your properties? The
International Cemetery and Funeral Association (ICFA) now offers two
venues for placing cemetery and funeral industry-related classified
advertisements: International Cemetery & Funeral Management magazine and
the ICFA Web site, www.icfa.org.
Each issue of ICFM magazine is mailed out to 6,200 industry members;
pass-along readership totals more than 10,000. Classified ads can be
purchased for $30 for 50 words or less, and 30 cents for each additional
word. Business card-sized ads are available at a cost of $75.
Classifieds on the Web are accessed by several hundred visitors each
month and currently are posted for free.
For more information on placing a classified ad in the magazine, contact
Nadira at 1-800-645-7700, ext. 225. For information on Web classifieds,
visit www.icfa.org/employment.htm.
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 6,000 cemeteries,
funeral homes, monument dealerships, crematories and related businesses
worldwide.
For Immediate Release
For More Information, Please Contact:
Linda Budzinski
1-800-645-7700
lacorn@icfa.org
In a message dated 8/12/01 3:24:31 PM, lacorn@icfa.org writes:
RESTON, VA (August 9, 2001) &endash; The International Cemetery and Funeral
Association (ICFA) Personalization Committee has created the KIP
(Keeping It Personal) Awards to recognize personalization of products
and services in the cemetery and funeral industry.
ICFA member cemeteries, funeral homes, suppliers and related businesses
are eligible to submit entries in three categories:
o Special Events&emdash;For the most creative workshop, seminar or holiday
event held by the entrant during 2001. Prizes will be awarded for events
costing less than $1,000 and events costing more than $1,000.
o Magic Moments&emdash;For the most creative and meaningful "best practice" or
service used on a regular basis at entrant's location that helps
differentiate the company and demonstrates a personal touch.
o Products That Personalize&emdash;For the product or service that reflects the
character of the person memorialized in a way that is personal and
meaningful.
The deadline for entries is January 15, 2002. Award recipients will be
honored at the ICFA Annual Convention in Orlando, Florida, April 24-27,
2002. All entrants will receive a certificate of recognition and will be
recognized in International Cemetery & Funeral Management magazine.
For complete rules and an entry form, contact the ICFA at 1-800-645-7700
or visit the "KIP Awards" section of the ICFA Web site at www.icfa.org.
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 6,000 cemeteries,
funeral homes, monument dealerships, crematories and related businesses
worldwide.
For More Information, Please Contact:
Linda Budzinski
1-800-645-7700
lacorn@icfa.org
In a message dated 8/26/01 9:19:13 AM, AOL member writes: I'm writing to tell you that Ralph W.Blye passed away last Sunday.He was the owner of The Smith Funeral Home Dayton,Ohio
In a message dated 8/12/01 3:21:29 PM, lacorn@icfa.org writes:
John, Feel free to use this latest item from ICFA WIRELESS:
ICFA RESPONDS TO ANTI-PRENEED NEWS REPORT
On July 31, The Tennessean, published in Nashville, Tennessee, printed a
letter to the editor titled "Prepaid Funeral Plans Can Be Beneficial,"
written by ICFA External Chief Operating Officer Robert Fells in
response to a July 23 article advising readers against prefunding
funeral expenses.
The article had been based on a misleading Consumers Union report issued
in 2000. The ICFA's response points out misinformation in the report and
concludes, "Sadly, many consumers following Consumers Union 'advice'
will sacrifice their peace of mind and the financial security of knowing
that their funeral wishes are documented and funded."
For the full text of the letter, visit http://www.icfa.org/tennessean_letter.htm.
For information on the ICFA's response to Consumers Union regarding the original report, visit http://www.icfa.org/government.htm.
In a message dated 8/10/01 2:33:40 PM, LSNCFDA writes:
NCFDA E-Line
August 10, 2001
They Are Off and Running
By now you know that eight licensees are seeking two available seats on the NC Board of Mortuary Science. On Wednesday, August 15, the State Board is expected to approve the ballot form, set a date for mailing the ballots, determine closing date for receiving ballots and determine date the votes will be counted . . . Another very important matter before the State Board in the coming week will be to name a replacement for Mike McGhee who submitted his resignation effective this week. The State Board has the responsibility to appoint someone to serve the remainder of the term which expires December 31, 2002 . . . Stay tuned
Opening for State Board Executive Director
The State Board Personnel Committee held interviews this week and the final three candidates will come before the State Board next Wednesday. The naming of the new executive director is expected on Wednesday
NCFDA BOD Note of Interest
The NCFDA Board of Director met Tuesday, August 7, 2001 in Clemmons,. NC. We will send you the minutes, but the following points of interest are shared FYI.
¥A committee has been appointed to offer the board some suggestions and direction on a dues structure for 2002.
¥A committee has been named to establish a comprehensive NCFDA web site.
¥NCFDA Vice President Ken Poe of Charlotte was named to serve on the NFDA Policy Board. The NCFDA BOD has determined that the policy board representative shall be passed to the new vice-president each year.
¥Dorman Caudle (Winston Salem) and Anthony Minshew (Four Oaks) have been named co-chairpersons for the Funeral Service Political Action Committee. Watch your mail for an opportunity to participate and be a part of this most important committee.
¥NCFDA is seeking your nominations for Honorary Membership in NCFDA. Nominations must be in writing. You may offer the name of any individual who has made a significant contribution to funeral service. The only past recipient of this honor is Past President David Bumgardner.
New NCFDA Directory on the Presses
Your new NCFDA Membership and Resource Directory should be in the mail in the next few weeks. We think you will be impressed with this comprehensive funeral service related information. While we believe we got the phone numbers correct, you need to know a big change is in the making. A new overlay area code (984) brings a new area code and ten-digit dialing to all of the remaining (919) area. The new area code (984) will apply to all new phone numbers being added to the (919) area code. Good Luck!
Big Hitters Win the Gold
The Second Annual NCFDA President's Golf Tournament was held on Monday, August 6, 2001 in Clemmons. If you are an golfer, you will recognize the names of the First Prize Winners: Steve Phelps, Brandon Phelps, Emery Baker and Wayne Nance. Great golf tournament, great program, good food and social.
Legislative Update: An Interim Legislative Report
1) HB440 (State Board Bill) will become effective December 1, 2001 and includes, among other things, NCFDA recommendation to register transporter and NCFDA's factors to consider before imposing or assessing a penalty due to the increase in the "compromise penalty" from $1,000 to $5,000.
2) SB466 (Worker's Compensation) was amended at NCFDA's request to increase from $2,000 to $3,500 the amount of funeral expenses paid by worker's compensation insurance relating to a compensable death.
3) HB312 (No Sales Tax on Funerals) had over 50 sponsors and additionally the current $1,500 exemption was preserved considering the financial strains faced by North Carolina this term. Rep. Rayfield intends to reintroduce this bill next session.
4) SB753 (Crime Victim's Compensation) included in the Senate version an amendment to increase the amount of funeral expenses paid to a crime victim from $3,500 to $4,000. The House and Senate Budget Committees will determine whether or not the bill becomes law.
5) SB300 (Amend NC Emergency Management Law) among other things authorizes the Governor to make State funds available for funeral or burial expenses resulting from a declared disaster.
6) HB262 (State Veteran's Cemetery Eligibility) became effective May 31, 2001 and changes the eligibility requirements for interment in a State Veterans Cemetery.
7) House Resolution 1462 a joint resolution honoring the life and memory of David W. Bumgardner, Jr. (former member of the House) was introduced on July 19, 2001.
NCFDA CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Aug 15 Board Meeting of the NC Board of Mortuary Science at their office in Raleigh at 9:00 AM.
Aug 15 Open Meeting of the NC Board of Mortuary Science at McKimmon Center in Raleigh to hear comments regarding the proposed cremation law.
Aug. 28 District 7 Meeting at The Flame Restaurant in Sanford with Mark Henderson, General Counsel for the NC Board of Mortuary Science, and Larry Stegall, NCFDA Executive Director. Social at 5:30 PM, Dinner at 6:00 PM and Program at 7:00 PM. Members $25.00. Non-Members: $35.00. Contact Gary Overcash at 910-895-4422. (2.0 c.e.c.)
Sept 5 Funeral Exam Review prior to the state exam sponsored by NCFDA and FTCC to be held at FTCC Cumberland Hall Auditorium from 8:00 AM &endash; 4:00 PM. Advance registrations are $30.00 and at-the-door costs are $35.00.
Sept 11 Exam Date for licensure by the NC Board of Mortuary Science (Applications MUST be in the State Board Office by August 11)
Sept 11 District 2 Meeting with Dr. John Lambeth on OSHA Inspections and Mark Henderson, Interim Executive Director of the NC Board of Mortuary Science. More details at a later date. (2.0 c.e.c.)
Oct 8 &endash; 10 National FDA Convention in Orlando, FL
Nov 13 NCFDA Board of Directors Meeting at the School of Funeral Service at Fayetteville Technical Community College at 10:00 AM.
June 10 &endash; 12, 2002&emdash; NCFDA Annual Convention at the Grove Park Inn Resort, Asheville, NC
Have a nice weekend!
MORE
NCFDA E-Line
August 20, 2001
Telephone Solicitation Warning!
NCFDA has received two phone calls in the last two days regarding a possible telephone scam that is resurfacing. You may recall that a couple of months ago funeral homes were receiving calls that asked them to accept a collect telephone call from someone with questions regarding cremation. However, once the funeral home accepted the call, the call could cost as much as $25 per minute! NCFDA would like to remind our members to be careful in accepting collect calls and question the origination of the call, if unknown.
NCFDA CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Aug. 28 District 7 Meeting at The Flame Restaurant in Sanford with Mark Henderson, newly named Executive Director for the NC Board of Mortuary Science, and Larry Stegall, NCFDA Executive Director. Social at 5:30 PM, Dinner at 6:00 PM and Program at 7:00 PM. Members $25.00. Non-Members: $35.00. Contact Gary Overcash at 910-895-4422. (2.0 c.e.c.)
Sept 5 Funeral Exam Review prior to the state exam sponsored by NCFDA and FTCC to be held at FTCC Cumberland Hall Auditorium from 8:00 AM &endash; 4:00 PM. Advance registrations are $30.00 and at-the-door costs are $35.00.
Sept 11 "Forgiveness: Psychological and Theological considerations for the Dying and Bereaved" sponsored by Carolinas Center for Hospice and End ofLife, NCFDA, SC Cremation and Memorial Society. 9:00 - 4:00 PM at the NCHospital Center in Cary, NC. Registration Fees: $99 (includes break, lunch and materials). Contact: Carolinas Center for Hospice and End of Life Care at 919-677-4100. (Requested 6.0 c.e.c.)
Sept 11 Exam Date for licensure by the NC Board of Mortuary Science (Applications MUST be in the State Board Office by August 11)
Sept 11 "Hazardous Communication in the FH" sponsored by SORT from 3:30 &endash; 9:30 PM at Hayworth-Miller Funeral Home in Winston-Salem. Contact Mark Nichol at 336-759-3924, ext. 105. (5.0 c.e.c.)
Sept 11 District 2 Meeting with Dr. John Lambeth on OSHA Rules & Regulations and Mark Henderson, Executive Director of the NC Board of Mortuary Science, on Laws & Legislation. The meeting will be held at the Holiday Inn in Williamston with dinner at 6:00 PM and the program from 7:00 - 9:00 PM. (2.0 c.e.c.)
Oct 8 &endash; 10 National FDA Convention in Orlando, FL
Oct 23-24 NC Crematory Operators Training Class sponsored by the Cremation Association of NC at L. Harold Poole Funeral Service & Crematory in Knightdale. Registration packages will be mailed to all crematories in NC in late August. Contact Melissa Barnes at 919-266-3646.
Nov 13 NCFDA Board of Directors Meeting at the School of Funeral Service at Fayetteville Technical Community College at 10:00 AM.
Nov 14 "Specialty Uses of Life Insurance, etc." sponsored by Heritage School at the Ramada Inn, Kopper Kettle Restaurant in Goldsboro, from 9:00 AM &endash; 4:15 PM. Contact David Clark at 800-422-2011, ext. 1021. (3.5 c.e.c. approved)
Nov 13-14 "Funeral Funding Regulations" by Homesteaders Life Company in Fayetteville from 8:00 AM - 2:15 PM. Contact Steve Whitaker at 800-777-3633, ext. 440. (1.0 c.e.c. on Nov. 13 and 2.5 c.e.c. on Nov. 14 approved)
Nov 15-16 "Funeral Funding Regulations" by Homesteaders Life Company in Winston-Salem from 8:00 AM - 2:15 PM. Contact Steve Whitaker at 800-777-3633, ext. 440. (1.0 c.e.c. on Nov. 15 and 2.5 c.e.c. on Nov. 16 approved)
June 10 &endash; 12, 2002&emdash; NCFDA Annual Convention at the Grove Park Inn Resort, Asheville, NC
In a message dated 8/29/01 7:54:37 PM, Pam in Wisconsin writes:
1) What describes your perfect date?
a) Candlelight dinner for two
b) Amusement Park
c) Rollerblading in the park
d) Rock Concert
e) See a movie
2) What is your favorite type of music?
a) Rock n Roll
b) Alternative
c) Soft Rock
d) Classical
e) Popular
3) What is your favorite type of movie?
a) Comedy
b) Horror
c) Musical
d) Romance
e) Documentary
4) Which of the following jobs would you chose if
you were given only these choices?
a) Waiter/Waitress
b) Sports Player
c) Teacher
d) Policeman
e) Bartender
5) Which would you rather do if you had an hour to
waste?
a) work out
b) Read
c) Watch TV
d) Listen to the radio
e) Sleep
6) Of the following colors, which do you like the
best?
a) yellow
b) white
c) sky blue
d) teal
e) red
7) Which one of the following would you like to
eat right now?
a) ice cream
b) pizza
c) sushi
d) pasta
e) salad
8) What is your favorite holiday?
a) Halloween
b) Christmas
c) New Year's
d) Valentine's Day
e) Thanksgiving
9) If you could go to any of the following places,
which would it be?
a) Paris
b) Spain
c) Las Vegas
d) Hawaii
e) Hollywood
10) Of the following, who would you rather spend
time with?
a) Someone who is smart
b) Someone with good looks
c) Someone who is a party animal
d) Someone who has fun all the time
e) Someone who is very emotional
Now total up your points and find your character
below:
1-a 4 2-a 2 3-a 2 4-a 4 5-a 5
b 2 b 1 b 1 b 5 b 4
c 5 c 4 c 3 c 3 c 2
d 1 d 5 d 4 d 2 d 1
e 3 e 3 e 5 e 1 e 3
6-a 1 7-a 3 8-a 1 9-a 4 10-a 5
b 5 b 2 b 3 b 5 b 2
c 3 c 1 c 2 c 1 c 1
d 2 d 4 d 4 d 2 d 3
e 4 e 5 e 5 e 3 e 4
(10-17 points): You are TAZ
You are wild and crazy and you know it. You know
how to have fun, but you may take it to extremes. You know
what you are doing though, and are much in control of your
own life. People don't always see things your way, but that
doesn't mean that you should do away with your beliefs.
Try to remember that your wild spirit can lead to
hurting yourself and others.
(18-26 points) You are Bugs Bunny
You are fun, friendly, and popular. You are a real
crowd pleaser. You have probably been out on the town
your share of times, yet you come
home with the values that your mother taught you.
Marriage and children are important to you, but only
after you have fun. Don't let the people you please
influence you to stray.
(27-34 points) You are Tweety
You are cute, and everyone loves you. You are a
best friend that no one takes the chance of losing.
You never hurt feelings and seldom have your
own feelings hurt. Life is a breeze. You are
witty, and calm most of the
time. Just keep clear of backstabbers, and you are
worry free.