I hope to see you 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 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 9/26/01 11:06:50 AM, North Carolina FDA writes: 5860 Faringdon Place, Suite 2, Raleigh, NC 27609 919-876-7886 o 800-616-2332 o Fax: 919-876-5382
NCFDA E-Line
September 25, 2001
STATE BOARD VOTE WAS IMPROPER: The State Board of Mortuary Science has acknowledged that the secret ballot taken to fill a vacant seat on the State Board was done so improperly and in violation of the Open Meeting Law. Executive Director Mark Henderson offers apologies via the State Board web site www.ncbms.org The State Board meets Wednesday, October 3, and is expected to vote again (openly) to choose a replacement for former board member Mike McGhee. In other business, the State Board is expected to discuss the proposed "Cremation Legislation." At 1:00 PM the State Board will count ballots to elect State Board members for Category I and Category II. NCFDA will attend the meetings and provide the results.
NCFDA ATTORNEY'S REPORT: NCFDA Attorney Jon Carr reports on this date that the Budget bill, which also contains the Revenue or tax bill, is expected to be signed into law by the Governor today. This includes the increase in funeral expenses paid to crime victims from $3,500 to $4,000 which was initially a bill introduced by Senator Balance and supported by NCFDA. Other good news . . . The Budget/Revenue bill did not change the taxation of funerals. NCFDA will monitor this issue between sessions in the Revenue Laws Study Committee.
STATE BOARD HIRES NEW STAFF ATTORNEY: During the past several weeks the NC Board of Mortuary Science has hired a new staff attorney. Attorney Barry Block is on the job and may be reached at the State Board office. It is expected that the new legal counsel will be involved in the processing of complaints.
COST OF DEATH CERTIFICATES: If you missed our first notice, please be reminded that the cost of death certificates will go from the current $3.00 to $10.00 each, effective January 1, 2002. House Bill 1073 introduced by Rep. William T. Culpepper (Edenton, NC) increased the fees for several legal documents provided by the Register of Deeds.
ASSOCIATION ACTIVITIES: In recent week committee meetings have been held by the 2002 NCFDA Convention Committee, NCFDA Website Development Committee, NCFDA Mid-Winter Conference Committee and NCFDA District Restructuring Committee. During the coming week the NCFDA Political Action Committee will meet and formulate plans for the coming year.
NO REPLY FROM FIRST CITIZENS: In response to members' questions, please be advised that we have received no reply from First Citizens Bank regarding NCFDA's invitation to discuss some matters relating to the support of NCFDA. Members will recall notice of the bank's support given to the South Carolina Funeral Directors Association and the South Carolina Morticians and Funeral Directors Association. First Citizens Bank officials of South Carolina report that they value the relationship with the association and appreciate the opportunity for such a mutually beneficial alliance. To date we have not received a reply to our letter to Chairman of the Board, Frank Holding, Jr. Expect us to follow-up on this matter.
Editorial Note: The views and opinions expressed in this e-line do not necessarily reflect the official position of the NCFDA Board of Directors unless explicitly noted.
NCFDA CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Oct 4 "Funding Methods for Prearranged Funeral Contracts" by Vision Insurance at Mama's Resturant in Franklin from 9:50 AM &endash; 2:30 PM. Contact Michael Wilson at 336-877-3960. (6.0 c.e.c.). Also Held at the Following Locations:
Oct 9 Ryan's Steakhouse, Gastonia
Oct 11 Western Steer, Jefferson
Oct 17 Sagebrush, Marion
Nov 8 Western Sizzlin', Conover
Nov 15 Ryan's, Asheville
Dec 6 Western Sizzlin', Conover
Dec 13 Ryan's, Asheville
Oct 8 &endash; 10 National FDA Convention at Orlando Convention Center in Orlando, FL. Contact Sandra Jeske at 800-228-6332. (35.0 hours over entire event&emdash;ALL programs approved)
Oct 15 "Safety & Compliance" at Sechrest Funeral Service in High Point from 8:30 AM &endash; 3:00 PM. Contact Neil Whitaker at 336-889-3811. (5.0 c.e.c.)
Oct 16 District 11 Meeting with Mark Henderson, Executive Director of the NC Board of Mortuary Science, on Laws & Legislation. The meeting will be held at the Campfire Steak & Buffet with dinner at 6:00 PM and the program from 7:00 - 9:00 PM. Dinner costs will be order from the menu and program fees are $5 per NCFDA Member. Contact Rick Harwood at 828-645-3011. (Requested 2.0 c.e.c.)
Oct 16 "Life Insurance Claims, Funeral Service On the Outside Looking In, etc." at Washburn & Dorsey Funeral Home in Bostic from 5:45 &endash; 8:55 PM. Contact Kent Dorsey at 828-248-1234. (3.0 c.e.c.)
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. (8.5 c.e.c)
Oct 24 NCFDA Web Site Development Committee at Hayworth-Miller Funeral Home in Advance at 10:30 AM.
Nov 8 NCFDA Convention Committee at Grove Park Inn in Asheville at 2:00 PM.
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" (2.5 c.e.c.) and "Preneed Insurance Lifecycle Performance" (1.0 c.e.c.) by Homesteaders Life Company in Fayetteville from 8:00 AM - 2:15 PM. Contact Steve Whitaker at 800-777-3633, ext. 440.
Nov 15 "Understanding Diversity in Funeral Service" at LCC, Bullock Building #1, Room 150 at Lenoir Community College in Kinston from 5:00 &endash; 10:00 PM. Contact Jessie Wooten at 252-527-6223, ext. 716. (5.0 c.e.c.)
Nov 15-16 Funeral Funding Regulations" (2.5 c.e.c.) and "Preneed Insurance Lifecycle Performance" (1.0 c.e.c.) by Homesteaders Life Company in Winston-Salem from 8:00 AM - 2:15 PM. Contact Steve Whitaker at 800-777-3633, ext. 440.
June 10 &endash; 12, 2002&emdash; NCFDA Annual Convention at the Grove Park Inn Resort, Asheville, NC
Additions, Corrections and/or Deletions to E-Line
Send additions, corrections and/or deletions for the NCFDA E-Line to Membership Services Director Pat Hayes at: phncfda@aol.com
In a message dated 9/25/01 8:20:52 AM, Walter in Tennessee Sends us!:
September 24, 2001 Posted: 4:24 PM EDT (2024 GMT)
Rescue workers remove remains from the World Trade Center rubble.
NEW YORK (AP) -- As the death toll at the World Trade Center rose again Monday, state and city officials said it would soon be much easier for families to get death certificates for loved ones still missing in the rubble. \
Mayor Rudolph Giuliani said the number of confirmed dead had increased by 15 people to 276. There were 6,453 people listed as missing.
In Albany, Gov. George Pataki signed an executive order he said will allow families to obtain death certificates within days instead of years. The order is intended to help families file insurance claims, disburse estates and access assets of the victims.
Giuliani also said lawyers will be available at a Manhattan center by Wednesday to provide free assistance to those seeking death certificates.
"The family center will be organized so that it can do that for large numbers of people," he said.
Meanwhile, search crews kept up their nonstop search for victims and the flight recorders from the two hijacked airliners. Rescue workers have not found a survivor since the day after the attacks.
"It's still a nightmare down there," Chris Durso, 23, said as he laid telephone lines. "It's definitely worse in person than on TV."
Search crews Sunday found a major part of one of the planes that hit the towers Sept. 11. A 10-foot piece of fuselage was loaded onto a golf cart and taken away by federal investigators.
The possibility that Giuliani, who is barred by term limits from seeking a third term this fall, may try to extend his stay in office was cheered by some of the weary searchers.
"He should just stay for another term, period," said Del Mossobir, 26, a volunteer from Queens. "He knows how to handle situations very well."
The mayor said Monday that he hasn't decided on his political future.
The work went on as Wall Street employees and others arrived at work in the financial district. Lawyer Jonathan Rapport arrived from Staten Island in a pair of shorts. His office is without air conditioning.
"Well, you gotta get on, right?" said Rapport, 28.
The mayor said he confident the city's economy is recovering.
"It's not going to happen by magic, and it's not gonna happen all at once," he said. Still, he said, several Broadway shows saw increased attendance over the weekend and commuter service around the city was largely back to normal.
More residents of lower Manhattan were allowed to return home Sunday and relief agencies encouraged them to ask for government help. More than 8,000 people have applied for aid, said Mike Byrne of the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Hunter Carter lives in one of the apartment buildings in Battery Park City that is still closed due to a lack of electricity. He said he used to adore his apartment, the view of Ellis Island and walking along the Hudson River.
But now there are police officers and military personnel everywhere, and he wants to break his lease and move to a new place.
"This is nothing like the neighborhood I loved," Carter said. "It is just so sad around here."
In a message dated 9/25/01 8:23:18 PM, Mike in Oklahoma sends us:
You have to be sure to read the very last line !!!
Age 3: She looks at herself and sees a Queen
Age 8: She looks at herself and sees Cinderella.
Age 15: She looks at herself and sees an Ugly Sister (Mom, I can't go to school looking like this!)
Age 20: She looks at herself and sees "too fat/too thin, too short/too tall, too straight/too curly"- but decides she's going out anyway.
Age 30: She looks at herself and sees "too fat/too thin, too short/too tall, too straight/too curly"-but decides she doesn't have time to fit it so she's going out anyway.
Age 40: She looks at herself and sees "too fat/too thin, too short/too tall, too straight/too curly"-but says, "At least, I am "clean" and goes out anyway.
Age 50: She looks at herself and sees "I am" and goes wherever she wants to go.
Age 60: She looks at herself and reminds herself of all the people who can't even see themselves in the mirror anymore. Goes out and conquers the world.
Age 70: She looks at herself and sees wisdom, laughter and ability; goes out and enjoys life.
Age 80: Doesn't bother to look. Just puts on a purple hat and goes out to have fun with the world. Maybe we should all grab that purple hat earlier.
In a message dated 9/13/01 11:45:26 PM, noreply@nfda.org writes:
NFDA ENews Alert
September 13, 2001
Volume 2, Issue 18
IN THIS ISSUE...
September 13, 2001
To: Members of the Funeral Service Community
Fr: NFDA President, John Carmon and Acting CEO, Christine Pepper
Following is an update regarding the events that NFDA and funeral directors around the country have been involved with since our last blast fax, dated September 11.
Thank you for your generous outpouring and support! To date, over 1,500 funeral directors around the country have volunteered with NFDA and their state associations to help meet our Nation's needs. NFDA is awaiting word from the state associations impacted by the disasters as well as the federal and local authorities. We will be immediately in touch with you once those needs have been determined and we assess how our collective services can best be utilized.
In the meantime, please stay tuned to NFDA's Website for continual updates and postings of information such as media tips, news statements and public relations ideas. Click on the Breaking News! icon at www.nfda.org. You may find this information helpful to you in your daily activities surrounding this crisis.
President George W. Bush has proclaimed Friday, September 14, 2001, as a National Day of Prayer and Remembrance for the Victims of the Terrorist Attacks. In that proclamation, he asks that the people of the United States and places of worship mark this National Day of Prayer and Remembrance with noontime memorial services, the ringing of bells at that hour, and evening candlelight remembrance vigils. He encourages employers to permit their workers time off during the lunch hour to attend the noontime services to pray for our land.
Here are some ideas you may want to tie-in to Friday's events or consider pursuing to help your community cope with the disaster:
Hold a candlelight vigil. You can either do this at your funeral home, or collaborate with your local clergy, business leaders, medical and public officials, or other organizations in your community that want to host a special memorial event in the days, weeks and months ahead.
Keep your doors open to the public. Have a special place in your funeral home dedicated to the lives lost in the disasters. Include a memorial book for visitors to sign and express their feelings. The book can later be sent to the appropriate national organization(s).
Offer red-white-&-blue ribbons.
Offer lapel pins, window decals or other items symbolizing the American flag.
Include well-known songs in your memorial services. During your special memorial events, include songs that people can join in singing. If you have a program, include the lyrics. In addition to songs that express the sorrow for those who died in the disasters, you may want to sing patriotic songs including "The National Anthem," "The Star Spangled Banner" and "God Bless America."
Light a candle or place a light in your funeral home window.
Make grief materials available to your public library or other community outlets. Place an ad in your local newspaper showing that you are a resource to the community for materials of this nature. NFDA is in the process of creating ad slicks for you to use in your community.
Support NFDA's 9-11 Relief Fund. All contributions made to this fund will benefit the relief and recovery efforts taking place in the disaster areas. Stay tuned to the NFDA Website for more information in the days to come. Donations for the 9-11 Relief Fund may be sent to:
National Funeral Directors Association
9-11 Relief Fund
PO Box 1451
Milwaukee, WI 53201-1451
Sponsor a blood drive. Blood will be needed in the several weeks ahead and blood drives are currently taking place all across the country. You also can show your support by encouraging visitors of your Website to donate blood. To view an example of what your funeral home's Website can do, visit Magoun-Biggins Funeral Home's Website at www.magounbiggins.com
Lower your flag to half-mast.
NFDA has drafted a Resolution, which will be presented to the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate regarding a National Day of Unity on November 4, 2001. The purpose of this effort is to provide an opportunity for funeral homes, suppliers and friends of funeral service to organize their communities on a single day to unite, honor and remember Americans by engaging in a variety of local activities such as playing "The National Anthem" at local band-shells or other venues.
Similar to our grassroots efforts on WW II, we are asking funeral directors, state associations and allied associations to send the resolution to their members of Congress asking them to have it introduced and passed. A copy of the draft resolution can be found on NFDA's Website on Friday at www.nfda.org/breaknews/index.html. You may conveniently find your representative here as well as forward the draft resolution from NFDA's Website. You may also obtain a hard copy of the draft resolution by calling 800-228-6332.
NFDA is also working closely with our public relations counsel, Bain and Associates, located in Washington D.C. in efforts to ensure that national media has access to NFDA spokespersons and appropriate funeral service-related information as needed.
At present time, NFDA has decided to move forward with all plans for our Annual Convention & World Expo, October 7-10, 2001, in Orlando. In tribute, the Service of Remembrance Prayer Breakfast on Sunday, October 7, at 9 a.m. will be dedicated to the disaster victims and their families. A formal notice will be sent to all NFDA members and convention registrants regarding any future updates on the status of the NFDA Annual Convention & World Expo.
Please stay tuned to NFDA Online, www.nfda.org, for evolving information. We will keep you updated with what's happening around the country as well as all further efforts on behalf of NFDA. Thank you again.
In a message dated 9/10/01 11:25:39 AM, Debbie in Arizona writes:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FORESIGHT COMMUNICATIONS On the Move!
Foresight Communications, Inc. announces a new location by popular demand is included in its Winter Seminar Series for 2002. Grand Cayman will be the tropical paradise site for 5-day seminar scheduled for January 6-11, 2002. Scottsdale, AZ, February 3-8, 2002 and Las Vegas, February 25-27, 2002 will be return sites.
Glenn Gould (guest speaker in Grand Cayman only) will share his perspective on funeral home marketing, while Dan Isard and Curtis Rostad discuss business transfers, preneed marketing, and limiting overhead. Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson will be a guide through the maze. It is hoped that attendees will leave the seminars motivated with ideas on how to improve their business opportunities and increase their personal happiness as a business owner.
Innovators in continuing education seminars, Foresight utilizes computer driven graphics and video to complement funeral service expertise and anecdotal humor. CEU's are pending from the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice.
The seminar will first be presented at the Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort followed by the Radisson Resort and Spa Scottsdale. Workshops are conducted in the mornings with optional golf tournament, deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, and horseback ride, depending upon location in the afternoons. The Las Vegas Hilton site offers the same number of workshop hours in two full days and one morning, leaving plenty of time to "make your best bets" and take in a few shows.
For reservations and information contact Debbie at Foresight Communications (800) 426-0165 or visit Foresight's new website www.f4sight.com. Space is limited in each location. Early registration discounts available.
Contact Debbie Isard Photos attached next document
Foresight Communications, Inc.
6520 N. 7th St. suite 200
Phoeinx, AZ 85014
(800) 426-0165
In a message dated 9/9/01 7:45:39 PM, Chris in Massachusetts writes:
New England's
KENMORE SQUARE INSTITUTE
FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION
Presents
5 CEU'S PLUS OSHA - IN ONE AFTERNOON!
KSI#6 LOWELL Sat., Sept. 22, 2001 12pm-5pm $89
Holiday Inn, 4 Highwood Drive, Tewksbury (978) 640-9000 www.tewksburyhotel.com
93 N Ex 43 Rt 133W; 93S Ex 44 Rt 495S Ex 39; 495N Ex39 133W; 495S Ex 39 Rt 133
OSHA & 5 CEU'S (OSHA ONLY, $39 , 12-12:30) Seating for 100 - Paid Reply By 9/15
Dying Death & Children Hazard Communication & Formaldehyde Exposure Standard
KSI#7 TAUNTON Sat., Oct. 6, 2001 11am-4pm $89
Holiday Inn, 700 Myles Standish Blvd., Taunton (508) 823-0430 www.holidayinn-taunton.com
495N/S Ex 9
OSHA & 5 CEU'S (OSHA ONLY, $39, 11-11:30) Seating for 100 - Paid Reply By 9/29
Healthcare Proxy Dying Death & Children Hazard Communication & Formaldehyde Exposure Standard
KSI#8 BOSTON Sat., Oct. 20, 2001 12pm-5pm $89
Forest Hills Crematory, Lucy Stone Chapel, Walkhill St., Jamaica Plain (617) 524-0128 Ext. 14
Directions: (617) 524-0128 Option 4 foresthills@earthlink.net www.foresthillstrust.org
OSHA & 5 CEU'S (OSHA ONLY, $39, 12-12:30) Seating for 140 - Paid Reply By 10/13
Healthcare Proxy Aftercare & Pursuit of Excellence Cremation
KSI#9 W. SPRINGFIELD Wed., Oct. 24, 2001 12pm-5pm $89
Best Western Sovereign, 1080 Riverdale St., W. Springfield (413) 781-8750
I-91 Exit 13B I-90 Ex 4 www.sovereignhotels.com/westspring.html
OSHA & 5 CEU'S (OSHA ONLY, $39, 12-12:30 Seating Limited to 75 - Paid Reply By 10/17
Dying Death & Children Ethics in Funeral Service Hazard Communication & Formaldehyde Exposure Standard
KSI#10 WORCESTER Sat., Oct. 27, 2001 12pm-5pm $89
Rural Cemetery, 180 Grove St, Worcester (508) 754-1313 www.ruralcemetery.com
Ellen Kennedy Chapel les.rc@juno.com 290E Ex 17, 290W Ex 18, I-190 Ex 1
OSHA & 5 CEU'S (OSHA ONLY, $39, 12-12:30) Seating Limited to 75 - Paid Reply By 10/20
Healthcare Proxy Dying Death & Children Hazard Communication & Formaldehyde Exposure Standard
KSI#11 WARWICK, RI Wed., Oct. 31, 2001 12pm-5pm $89
Chelo's Hometown Bar & Grill, 2225 Post Rd, Warwick, R.I. (401) 737-7299/9009
South of T.F.Green Airport www.diningout.com/chelos/default.htm
OSHA & 5 CEU'S (OSHA ONLY W/ LUNCH $49) Seating Limited to 200 - Paid Reply By 10/27
Expanded Bloodborne Pathogens Training Ethics in Funeral Service
www.KenmoreSquareInstitute.com
www.state.ma.us/reg/boards/em/default.htm
(go to Board News then to Continuing Education)
Speakers and courses will vary from date to date and between locations, but will consist of: OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Training, OSHA's Hazard Communication and Formaldehyde Exposure Standards, FTC & The General Price List, Ethics in Funeral Service, Death Dying & Children, Aftercare & the Pursuit of Excellence, The Healthcare Proxy, & Cremation. Speakers will include Robert Kane, Christian Hood, Roberta Andresen, Patricia Brophy, Anthony Hollingshead & John Tormey. All courses have been approved by the State Board of Registration for Funeral Service & Embalming.
Apprentices attending simply to satisfy the federally mandated requirement to receive training pertinent to OSHA's ruling found in the Code of Federal Regulations 29CFR1910.1030 will pay $39. Do keep in mind that the State Board of Registration has stated at one of their bi-monthly meetings that they will begin "auditing apprentices" to assure their compliance with this federal ruling mandating annual training.
Contact Robert Kane at 508-238-4269 or Christian Hood at 508-821-3540/508-245-2162. New England's Kenmore Square Institute for Continuing Education is an independent enterprise. Both Robert Kane and Christian Hood are funeral directors and teachers who were once instructors at New England Institute.
In a message dated 9/9/01 12:59:40 PM, Mike in Massachusetts writes:
In a message dated 9/9/01 2:32:06 PM, Eileen in New Hampshire writes:
Funeral processions get protection of law
By ROGER TALBOT
Sunday News Staff, Union Leader Newspaper, Manchester, NH
Everyone deserves respect on that last ride, said state lawmakers in deciding so little courtesy remains on New Hampshire roads they had to make it illegal to cut in on a funeral procession. Etched under "prohibited acts" in the "rules of the road" statute are four new paragraphs directed at "operators of vehicles not a part of (a) funeral procession." The law, violation of which can result in a fine, forbids:
-- Driving "between the vehicles comprising the funeral procession."
-- Joining a funeral procession "for the purpose of securing the right-of-way."
-- Attempting to "pass vehicles in a funeral procession on a two-lane highway."
-- Entering an intersection, when a funeral procession is proceeding through, "even if the vehicle is facing a green signal" and the procession is moving through on a red signal. The funeral procession law was approved in July and takes effect in January. It defines a funeral procession as vehicles trailing a hearse or other "lead" vehicle that is "equipped with a purple flashing or emergency light." "Each vehicle of the funeral procession shall be appropriately marked by having funeral flags or windshield signage, and headlights, taillights, and, if so equipped, hazard flasher on," the law stipulates. The principal sponsor was Sen. Debora B. Pignatelli, D-Nashua. "Although I hate to legislate common sense, given the seriousness of this, I thought it was worth some kind of penalty and getting the word out that this is not proper behavior," Pignatelli said. When the bill was heard, Pignatelli said, the only people who questioned the need for such a law were committee members who represent rural areas. "They said, 'Isn't it a shame it's come to this,'" Pignatelli said of her small-town colleagues. "The fact is there isn't a whole lot of courtesy available out there. It can be daunting to be in line, grieving and have somebody cut you off," Pignatelli said, recalling how it happened to her in a funeral just a few months ago. "Someone cut right in front of me as the procession was getting on the highway," she said. "Luckily, I knew how to get to the cemetery. If I had been from out of town, I, and the cars behind me, would have been lost because I would not have known which way to go." Just this past week, Pignatelli said, she read a letter published in a local newspaper written by a Florida resident who came up to New Hampshire for a funeral and was shocked by the rudeness of motorists who broke into the funeral procession. "The gist of the letter was 'live free, but don't die in New Hampshire,'" Pignatelli said.
In a message dated 9/25/01 4:44:14 PM, Paula in Montana sends us:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a message dated 9/18/01 10:45:22 PM, Loni in Texas writes:
In ancient times, a King had a boulder placed on a roadway. Then he hid himself and watched to see if anyone would remove the huge rock. Some of the king's wealthiest merchants and courtiers came by and simply walked around it. Many loudly blamed the king for not keeping the roads clear, but none did anything about getting the stone out of the way.
Then a peasant came along carrying a load of vegetables. Upon approaching the boulder, the peasant laid down his burden and tried to move the stone to the side of the road. After much pushing and straining, he finally succeeded. After the peasant picked up his load of vegetables, he noticed a purse lying in the road where the boulder had been. The purse contained many gold coins and a note from the king indicating that the gold was for the
person who removed the boulder from the roadway. The peasant learned what
many of us never understand.
Every obstacle presents an opportunity to improve our condition.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a message dated 9/16/01 5:54:04 PM, Ralph in Massachusetts writes: "Life is not a race. Do take it slower Hear the music before the song is over."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a message dated 9/15/01 10:40:29 PM, Shawn from Pittsburg, Texas writes:
Please forward to any and all funeral directors and or embalmers or assistants that you feel would like to read this letter. I hope in a small way it will encourage all of you to continue a job that is difficult at best. If you feel you would not like to read this or forward it then feel free to delete and continue your task.
I am a funeral director in Pittsburg, Texas. Our thoughts here are with all of the men and women that are involved in the rescue effort there in New York and Washington, but I would like all of the men and women that are involved with the handling of all the deaths if that be funeral directors, embalmers or assistants that our thoughts and prayers are also greatly with you. You all have a task that is as great as any other task involved during this tragedy. I know so very often that our professsion is overlooked at a time like this for all of our time that is spent and emotions that are trully evoked and hard to deal with. I know that recognition is not necessary by any means, but I just want you all to hold your heads up as much as possible during this time and continue to do a job that has to be done and only you can do. You are all of great value not only to New York or Washington , but also our wonderful country. Like I said earlier I would like to speak for all of the funeral directors here in Texas and other parts of the world that you are all in our thoughts and prayers and want to stress how proud we are of all of your efforts during this time.
Sincerely
Shawn Kennington
Sa2gether@aol.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a message dated 9/24/01 7:59:16 AM, Beacham in North Carolina writes:
Got this e-mail from a FD in NYC:
Beach --
Interesting article you've written.
Here are some of my observations. Keep in mind I was in the vicinity of the WTC disaster as I was at the NYC Health Department at the time...
* Make the "shhhhh" sound VERY deep and loud and you've got some idea how the buildings sounded as they collapsed;
* I haven't slept past 2:30 in the morning since the disaster. I keep having dreams and in those dreams everyone and everything dies in a weird and almost "comical" way...go figure that one out;
* I'll never see the flag as rather pretty red, white and blue banner again -- I'll see falling bodies and faces. Perhaps that's the kick in the a** we all need;
* The stench of the refrigerated UPS trucks holding the remains is overwhelming;
* "Ground Zero" has the horrible smell of death now. You know EXACTLY what I mean;
* Body "parts?" Yeah, I suppose so. Toes, calves, feet, hands and torsos. One of our cases was a gentlemen whose remains included from his bellybutton down...no chest, arms, one leg was gone and the other leg only had the foot torn off. Add burns to decomp and you have an idea about what we faced. The family arranged a direct cremation and a sea scattering with no planned memorial service. The guy was 38. The family found us via our web site.
* The intensity of the fireball and the pressure of those buildings collapsing literally pulzerized bodies. That's hard to imagine. No clothes, no shoes, NOTHING. Then again, firemen are saying that metal desks and file cabinets are gone as well. Notice how you don't see any in the photos??
* The day after the tradegy, I published a tribute on our web site. Since that time, over 15,000 people have visited and MANY have written very touching e-mails to us. Here it is -- just click on the "In Memorium" graphic: www.nycdirectcremation.com
* The economic impact of this attack will easily cost our nation in excess of $700 billion dollars. I see compensation claims for emotional trauma extending thirty years down the line. God knows what the rescue workers are breathing down there.
* The impact on funeral service? Where rescue workers are concerned and bodies are found, large fife and drum services. Otherwise, I'm seeing many memorial services sans funeral director. But it's still to early to tell...
And I could go on and on but I think you get the idea.
I'm reminded of the story where Stan Laurel (from Laurel and Hardy fame) was being wheeled into the operating room for surgery. When a nurse asked how he was doing, he responded, "I'd rather be skiing." Dumbfounded, she said, "Mr. Laurel, I didn't know you could ski." His answer? "I don't. But any place is better than here."
I'd rather be skiing.
Say a prayer for all of us Beach.
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In a message dated 9/16/01 11:13:36 PM, Lyn in Massachusetts writes: Hi John, Did you catch John Carmon on MSNBC tonight? He gave the last word from the audience. Lyn
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In a message dated 9/15/01 11:19:45 PM, Thestarclass writes:
Karen from Minnesota writes:
I wanted to share this story with you as a way to let everyone know that I met angels in disguise the day of the World Trade Center disaster.
This past week I was at the New Jersey State Funeral Director's Convention in Atlantic City. I had been invited to speak to their members about my children's funeral program, the STAR Class.
I had gotten up early that Tuesday morning to catch the continental breakfast and had sat with a woman over coffee and a cherry Danish. She and her husband owned a little funeral home about 40 miles from Atlantic City and were heading back home that day after the morning sessions. We chatted a bit and then I left to go to my room to pack.
As I was packing, I became aware of the tragic events unfolding across the river just a few miles away. All channels were covering the story. The images are still imprinted like a negative at the back of my mind, and come into view when I close my eyes. As the words rolled across the screen, "All flights, domestic and international have been canceled until further notice," I wondered what I would do.
Pat Dempsey of the NJSFDA reassured me they would put me up in the hotel another night, not to worry. Then it became obvious the wait would extend far longer than a day or two. All travel was canceled: buses, trains, planes. No rental carts were available and hotels were completely booked with stranded travelers.
As I sat in the hotel lobby watching the horrible scenes being repeated over and over, I felt a tap on my shoulder. "I can't remember your name," she said, "but, I just wanted to let you know that we have an extra room at our house since our daughter is away at college. You're welcome to stay with us." I thanked her but felt a little uneasy about imposing on strangers and hoped I would be able to fly out the next day. I still did not really understand the scope of the things happening around me.
Wednesday morning it was confirmed that flights were canceled indefinitely and no other travel out of the area was possible. So I called Paul and Virginia Loveland of Langely-Loveland Funeral Home in Tuckahoe, New Jersey. "We'll be right there." she said without hesitation. Ginny drove the 40 miles to pick me up. Our ride home began with a tour of Atlantic City with stories and facts of all the major points of interest. We drove along the ocean and ended up in a darling little cafe for lunch and an ice tea. When we arrived at the their home, I was warmly welcomed by "Snowy" the family dog and their son, Pauly, also a funeral director. "Oh," he said with a smile, "You're the STAR Class lady. I went to your seminar yesterday."
I called my family to let them know where I was and reassured them I was in safe hands. As the days passed, we shared our grief and sadness and anger as we watched the constant coverage on television. They and their friends and neighbors all knew someone or had family directly affected by the attack. We shared stories about our children and our families, our thoughts and fears about the tragedy, ourselves.
By Friday, limited numbers of flights were being allowed out. I had called to confirm my ticket on Thursday evening and was told to be at the airport at 4 am the next day- more time was necessary for security checks and dealing with the masses of people trying to go home.
Ginny drove me to the airport, about a 45 minute drive. She even went into the terminal with me. She knew I was a little uneasy about getting on a plane that day and stayed with me until I was frisked and allowed into the terminal itself, to await my flight. "Just call me if something happens and you don't get to go. I'll just come back and pick you up."
We hugged and I thanked her. Words were so inadequate to express my appreciation for what she and Paul had done for me. I had not only been "housed" for 3 days, I had been accepted into a family for 3 days. I will always remember Paul and Ginny Loveland for their kindness and hospitality in those stressful days and I thank them for their love and support.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere condolences to the families of those killed this past week in New York and Washington, DC. Such senseless disregard for human life is impossible to comprehend. But, in the midst of the chaos and confusion, one family made my world a little brighter and made me feel a little safer.
Thank you to the NJSFDA and to Paul and Ginny Loveland. I will never forget your kindness and will always look for ways to pass it on.
Karen E. Nilsen
www.thestarclass.com
In a message dated 9/5/01 1:11:26 AM, Please with hold my name and email address this is only my personal opinion writes:
Interesting bit of news from the Chicago Area:
SCI's Dignity Memorial Preneed program is being test marketed to the Teamsters of Chicago and New York.
This is an offering to all of the Teamsters as a 10% discount off a funeral purchased through SCI' Dignity Memorial. Seems really interesting since the Local Chicago Union Trustees are currently auditing all of the Chicago SCI funeral Homes for infractions to the union contract rules.
In a message dated 9/10/01 9:49:02 AM, Betty at the Casket Store writes:
Hi John:
Thought I would sign it (to show it is valid - and in case He saw himself -would know I didn't buy into his "there is a 28" casket" stuff. Thanks for the answers you gave - I agree competition is great for the price to the customer, just not the way he tried to do it, - but have you heard of a manuf. of a 28" unit? Thanks, Betty
ps - weekend was nice - my husband and both sons race in stockcar races, out of three, two won three thropies! http://www.burialitems.com/ccc.html for photo of stock car (and stuff) Hope your week is good too.
LOWELLMA@aol.com wrote:
In a message dated 9/8/01 3:41:28 PM, a-team@stratos.net writes:
For an oversized woman the funeral director tried to tell us we needed a oversize 28" casket. When we questioned him (the deceased was 5 ft and 290 lbs) about this - and still getting a casket into the 30 inch opening of the grave liner, he assured us this would be fine, and that it would fit. (We are casket retailers and had never heard of a 28" casket made by anyone!) When we questioned further - that our interior 27 1/2 inch casket would do fine, and still fit into a standard concrete graveliner, the funeral director (this call back was by speaker phone at the funeral home, director conference with
the family present and us on the phone) Mr. funeral director is "looking it up - yes, right here, it confirms the 28" casket has the outside dimensions of 30" and will fit into the 30" opening". I tell the family I will get back with them shortly. After they leave, we talk, and they order and we deliver the 27 !/2 inch casket. The next day, when we unload it - Out comes Mr. funeral director and uses his yardstick to measure, sure enough it is 27 1/2 inside and his comment, ? "We will have to stuff her in - it is really going to be a tight fit!" I ignored this and said I was now going to call the family to let them know it had been delivered and everything was fine. (Upon a second phone call to the family that day- the funeral director had called and the body was placed inside the casket, all is fine and she is on view.) (Of course I didn't say to them, but know, this f.d. simply tried to confuse the family, keep a sale and used this as his way to do so. ) Two things, This f.d. was NOT interested in the best things for the family AND I am requesting - does anyone here know of a 28" casket manufacture? (That is not special order, available the next day) - and who would that be please?
And seeing how this funeral director tried to make me look unprofessional (it says right here, the 28" interior - 30" outside will fit into a standard 30" interior concrete grave liner) there was no way I could have (or would have) tried to "save face and educate him at the same time", in front of this family. Something he was willing to pursue however - how would you have handled it or what would you have said to him?
Doing unto others...... Betty Brown
A Team Masters Casket store
http://www.burialitems.com/ATM.html
Hi Betty,
Ill put the question out to our readers, do you want your name attached (no need) Ill post the answers in the update as we get answers. As far as I know a thirty inch casket WILL NOT fit into a 30 cemetery grave liner, the grave liner has to be an inch wider to get the lowering straps off. As for the loss of the sale the FD wants a sale just as much as the guy down the street, competition is good for the industry, lower prices for the customer. As for next day delivery of an oversize casket, up my way, MILSO has same day and next day of oversize not a problem except for high holy and holidays. Let me know what to put at the bottom of your question, I'd rather get the answers and post them for everyone to learn from, but it's your question. Hope your haveing a nice weekend
C YA
John
IF YOU CARE TO COMMENT ON THE ABOVE ISSUE PLEASE RESPOND BY CLICKING THIS LINE
In a message dated 9/7/01 11:40:59 AM, Peter in Chicago writes:
John,
Saw this in today's Chicago Tribune, thought it would be good for the newsletter. Hope you had a great vacation! - Peter
Web reaches out to mourners
Out-of-towners can see funerals via Internet site
By James Janega
Tribune staff reporter
Published September 7, 2001
In the back room of a Tinley Park funeral home, with a dial-up connection established, relatives of Harold L. Dykstra began watching his funeral for the second time Thursday.
Nervous conversations faded into silence as they watched the computer screen. Dykstra's son-in-law Keith Moulton rested a clenched jaw on his hand. His widow, Anna, inhaled sharply.
The funeral of the 74-year-old retired civil engineer from Evergreen Park a day earlier was the first in Illinois to be broadcast--from the minister's soft invocation to the folding at graveside of the American flag atop the veteran's casket--over the Internet.
"We have relatives across the country," said Dykstra's daughter, Denise Moulton. "My aunt lives in New York, and we have relatives who live in Florida who are just too old to make the trip. And then there's the cost. They're distraught that they couldn't be here."
Funeral Web-casting remains a novelty, confined mostly to states like Arizona, Florida and California, where retirees have flocked but relatives may have trouble getting to in order to attend funerals.
Technological problems, such as broken connections or difficulties accessing the Web sites, have dogged the handful of software companies that offer funeral Webcasts. Still, the firms and funeral homes believe recent advances make the practice more reliable and attractive than in the past.
Since Funeral-Cast.com, the software company behind Dykstra's funeral, started placing funerals online last fall, 190,000 services have been viewed on its Internet site, accessed from places as far away as England, Poland, Australia and China.
Funeral industry groups say the Dykstra funeral made history, at least in Illinois, with the Webcast on Thursday from the Brady-Gill Funeral Home in Tinley Park.
"Since yesterday, I've had two funeral homes call and ask me about it. If it gets as good a response as it has already, I think you're going to get a lot more people using it," said Michael Gill, co-owner of Brady-Gill and a founder of the Chicagoland Independent Funeral Directors. "It just broadens the availability of the funeral service to people."
The notion has sent ripples through the funeral profession, a trade typically slow to change, but which has in the last decade seen striking gains in how it has personalized funeral services and used the Internet to reach a broader public.
But if the rest of America has embraced a culture of reality television and Internet voyeur cams, said Donald Hagemann, executive director of the International Order of the Golden Rule, the funeral business has been one place resistant to the trend.
"Anything new is always suspect in the eyes of the consumer, and I think only time will tell if this type of funeral service will gain acceptance among client families in a community," said Hagemann, whose group represents 1,170 independent funeral directors, most of them centered in the Great Lakes region.
For Messinger Mortuary in Scottsdale, Ariz., the only thing new about funeral Webcasting is the improved technology now driving it. Messinger has offered live Internet access to its services for more than two years and has broadcast some dozen funerals online, though they don't actively market the service.
Locally, Gill said families will soon have the option of broadcasting live or recorded services. He said access to the images can be restricted by a password at the family's request.
Gill said the Webcasts will be archived so that they are accessible on the funeral home's Web site. He also said he still isn't sure how much he will charge.
About 300 funeral homes now use Funeral-Cast.com in North America, said co-founder Leo Burnaccioni. Sixty of them are in the United States, though his company recently signed a deal with another 130 funeral homes in Washington state, he said.
Despite initial industry reluctance, Hagemann said his group wasn't ready to lump funeral Webcasts with such scoffed-at offerings as California's drive-through funeral homes of the 1970s and '80s.
"It is quite unusual," he said. "But the next generation of funeral directors in the process of taking over the business out there are very progressive in their thinking."
The Webcast was recorded with a single stationary video camera mounted at the cemetery and, before that, on one side of the funeral home.
Only the open casket, flowers and speakers at a lectern could be seen in the funeral home, but in the jerky images, Gill saw the future of his trade.
"The funeral profession is built on tradition. It's kind of like if things aren't broke, we'll keep doing them the same way," said Gill. "That was fine and dandy back when my dad was running the place. But I look at this as where things are going. I'm just trying to be two steps in front of my profession."
In a message dated 9/5/01 3:09:56 PM, LSNCFDA writes:
E-Line
September 5, 2001
Editorial Note: Pat Hayes is the usual reporter for the meetings of the NC Board of Mortuary Science. Since she is on vacation this week, yours truly is responsible for preparing the report. I am sure you will note the difference and yes, let us all hope Pat returns soon. Larry Stegall
MORE ABOUT FUNERAL MONEY TRAIL: Thanks for your calls. In the next few days we will have much more to share on the funds paid by First Citizens Bank to the SOUTH CAROLINA FDA and the S.C. Morticians and Funeral Directors Association. Thanks for your concerns. You can expect us to get answers to your questions . More to comeÉÉ
NC BOARD OF MORTUARY SCIENCE MET TODAY:
The following represents the highlights of the meeting of the NC Board of Mortuary Science held on this date:
Three Votes-Three Ties-Seat Still Vacant: President Nancy Rorie announced that the floor was open for nomination of an individual to fill the unexpired term and seat vacated by former board member Mike McGhee. Public member Stuart Cozart nominated Jimmy Swaringen to fill the unexpired term. Board member Alex Lee nominated Rudy Lea to fill the un-expired term. Both nominations were seconded. Each of the candidate gave brief comments regarding their desire and qualifications to serve on the board. Three (3) separate ballots were taken and in each case, each nominee received four(4) votes each. Mr. Lee raised a question regarding the vote cast by the board president. It was concluded that the statute does not prohibit a vote on the part of the president . At the conclusion to the three (3) separate votes, Alex Lee made a motion to lay on the table the issue of selecting a board replacement. Motion was seconded and approved by majority vote. Matter will be considered at a later date
In Other State Board Business Today:
-No financial report was available
-Discussion regarding cost of cremation rewrite
-Concern about previous legal advice and money spent on attorneys
-Disciplinary Committee has not gotten proper legal advice
-Board may have a $60,000 deficit this year, due to legal fees
-Louis Bennett reported that the cremation authority was lied to in the past
-Mark Henderson presented new consumer complaint forms. (Approved)
-State Board will not longer permit anonymous complaints
-Executive Director reported complaint files have been poorly kept.
-No way to determine status of complaints &endash; Filing system is undesirable
-Pending complaints are being resolved after long delays
-Computer software program is at near capacity
-Field staff lacks access to information from remote site
-Board not served well by outside legal counsel
-Election and board oath not done correctly in past.
-Board may have more hearings on cases -vs- spending money and time with the Office of Admistrative Hearings
-Three inspectors may be enough staff at this time (East-Central-West)
-New attorney State Board Attorney (general counsel) will be hired soon
-Communications with licensees has been a problem in the past
-Newsletters will be quarterly rather than semi-annual. (More personal)
-Acknowledge fact preneed reporting has problem &endash; will be better this year
-Cremation rewrite will be discussed at next meeting (November 7, 2001)
-Paintings of Andy Ritter and Corrine Culbreth will be purchased by board
and hung in the board room.
CHARLOTTE OBSERVER CHANGES
The Charlotte Observer has made the following changes to the Obituary Department:
Telephone: 704-358-5382 or 704-358-5320
Obit Fax: 704-358-5914
E-Mail Text: obitdesk@charlotteobserver.com
E-Mail Photo: obitphotos@charlotteobserver.com
jpg format with deceased name as "file name"
NCFDA CALENDAR OF EVENTS
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 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. Costs for dinner and program are $15 per NCFDA Member and $20.00 per Non-Member. (2.0 c.e.c.)
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 11-12 "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 12 "Fundamentals of Outer Burial Containers" sponsored by and held at Arnold-Wilbert Corp. in Goldsboro from 8:30 AM &endash; 2:30 PM. Contact Vickie Zimmerman at 919-73-5008. (4.0 c.e.c.)
Sept 21 "Trauma & Crisis Response Training" at Magnolia Manor in Colfax from 9:00 AM &endash; 4:00 PM. Contact Tina Markoff at 910-215-6013. (5.5 c.e.c.)
Sept. 25 "Funding Methods for Prearranged Funeral Contracts" by Vision Insurance at Mama's Resturant in Franklin from 9:50 AM &endash; 2:30 PM. Contact Michael Wilson at 336-877-3960. (6.0 c.e.c.). Also Held at the Following Locations:
Oct 4 Golden Corral, Burlington
Oct 9 Ryan's Steakhouse, Gastonia
Oct 11 Western Steer, Jefferson
Oct 17 Sagebrush, Marion
Nov 8 Western Sizzlin', Conover
Nov 15 Ryan's, Asheville
Dec 6 Western Sizzlin', Conover
Dec 13 Ryan's, Asheville
Oct 8 &endash; 10 National FDA Convention at Orlando Convention Center in Orlando, FL. Contact Sandra Jeske at 800-228-6332. (3.5 hours over entire event)
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
Additions, Corrections and/or Deletions to E-Line
Send additions, corrections and/or deletions for the NCFDA E-Line to Membership Services Director Pat Hayes at: phncfda@aol.com
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In a message dated 9/3/01 8:41:20 AM, Walter in Texas writes:
John what are we up to now, are the corps going hire a bunch of Mexicans and foreigners to pay slave wages, the owners just don't get it. PAY YOUR HELP FAIRLY!
NFDA Taking Action on Labor Shortage. NFDA will meet with Department of Labor (DOL) officials on the critical shortage of licensed funeral directors and embalmers. The DOL officials agreed to partner with NFDA to help solve the problem. The Employment and Training Administration has money available to assist industries in solving their labor shortages. It also may involve easing certain restrictions of immigration under H1B and other types of employment visas. Other groups such as nurses, construction, restaurants and hotels and motels also face employee shortages.
http://www.newschannel2000.com/sh/employment/underpaid/index.inc
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Got any Hot News for us. Issues that involve funeral service, in your community, it in, Everything you see here was send in by someone just like you. If there is a newspaper article in your area, send the link and we can all learn from it, even if it is your opinion we all learn from one another. Any HOT NEWS OR SCUTTLEBUTT WILL BE POSTED IN THE READER'S WRITE BACK SECTION.
Send your story or issue to FSPA just click here --->Lowellma@aol.com
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In a message dated 9/7/01 5:30:24 PM, RogRoy@Mediaone.net writes:
Embalmer/Funeral Director
I am currently seeking full-time employment in Massachusetts, so I can train while I obtain my degree in mortuary science. I feel that I can be an asset to such an organization and would like to speak to a potential employer regarding this issue. Thank you for your consideration and have a nice day.
Posted By:
Patricia Cawley e-mail rogroy@mediaone.net
124 Martin Street #4
Lowell MA USA 01854
978-453-3318
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Consider these steps for your life.
1. Work like you don't need the money.
2. Love like you've never been hurt.
3. Dance like you do when nobody's watching.
C YA
John
BOTTOM LINE: WE ALL WORK FOR THE BETTERMENT OF FUNERAL SERVICE PROFESSION AND THE DEATH CARE INDUSTRY THE CONSUMERS WE SERVE AND THE PROFESSIONALS WE WORK WITH. IF YOU SEE ANYTHING WRONG, IF SOMETHING HERE REALLY OFFENDS YOU, LET'S WORK TOGETHER. PLEASE NOTIFY FSPA IMMEDIATELY, YOU CAN E-MAIL TO lowellma@aol.com Or call FSPA in the United States Voice 978-458-6816 Fax 978-459-0115 or the old fashioned way through the mail at FSPA c/o 14 Highland Street Lowell, Massachusetts 01852-3399 USA
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