In a message dated 11/16/01 2:43:43 PM, LSNCFDA writes:
<< NCFDA E-LINE * NOVEMBER 16, 2001
NORTH CAROLINA FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION
5860 Faringdon Place, Suite 2, Raleigh, NC 27609
919-876-7886 o 800-616-2332 o Fax: 919-876-5382
November 16, 2001
Membership Renewal
By now you are probably aware that we have mailed the 2002 NCFDA membership renewal invoices. We appreciate your continued support and we welcome any question. Each year we are anxious to see who will be the first to return their dues payment. The recognition this year goes to Ms. Wylene Kennedy, Kennedy Funeral Home in Robbins, NC.
NCFDA Board of Directors Meet
In the next week you will receive a report from the meeting of the NCFDA BOD. The advance one liners is sent for your use information.
o The board will continue consideration of drawing new district lines
o There will not be a Mid Winter Education Conference this year
o There will be a comprehensive disaster preparedness seminar on January 15 in Fayetteville and February 16 in Hickory. In addition to disaster programming, you will receive some very helpful information on the do's and don't when dealing with the media. Look for specific information on this important seminar at a later date.
o Our unique NCFDA Web Site will be up and running the first of the year. Consumers will be able to take advantage of much of our information. Expect to also see an exclusive member page and a variety of links and features of value to you and your business.
o In February we are planning a Valentine Gala to help raise funds for our Funeral Service Political Action Committee. We will have quality continuing education programs, golfing and social events for everyone. The festivities will be in the Southern Pines Area. Expect the details in a few weeks!
o NCFDA is sending letters to the State Board regarding questions relating to disclosure of retention of preneed funds when the original funeral home does not provide the funeral service. Another question relates to a "funeral home" believed to be operating without an establishment permit, payment of fees or inspection. We will share our findings.
Deaths Among the Membership
George H. Poston, Ph.D., President of Commonwealth Institute in Houston, Texas, and an active member of the American Board of Funeral Service Education and NFDA, died earlier this week.
New York Medical Examiner Accepts NFDAOffer For
Additional Funeral Director Volunteers
NYC Medical Examiner also dealing with AA Flight 587 Casualties
In response to an offer from the president of The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), New York City's Chief Medical Examiner is requesting additional assistance from funeral directors as part of the World Trade Center disaster recovery effort. NFDA is mobilizing six volunteer professionals as of November 12, and will provide additional funeral directors as needed over the next several months to assist the medical examiner's office in working with families to identify the victims of the terrorist attack, as well as documentation of records.
In addition to the September 11 victims, the New York Medical Examiner is also working to identify the casualties that resulted from the November 12 crash of American Airlines Flight 587 in Queens.
"The medical examiner's office expressed its gratitude and was appreciative to learn of the additional support from caring and devoted funeral directors who are experienced in dealing with sensitive issues," said NFDA President Robert Vandenbergh. "Volunteering our services for this recovery effort is merely an extension of the work we do in our communities everyday."
The first group of volunteer professionals who will travel to New York include Matthew Carmon, Windsor, Conn.; Christopher Casey, Waterbury, Conn.; David Dutcavich, Minersville, Pa.; James Fickes, Mechanicsburg, Pa.; Robert Galello, Stratford, Conn.; and Mark Russell, Providence, R.I.
According to the medical examiner's office, the volunteers will be utilized for a two to three week period, before the next set of volunteers may be needed. NFDA will continue to provide volunteers for as long as necessary, according to Vandenbergh.
The new call for volunteers is the result of an October letter sent by Vandenbergh to Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Charles Hirsch. In his letter, Vandenbergh extended NFDA support for any further assistance the medical examiner's office may need during this critical time. More than 1,500 NFDA members across the country volunteered to help in the recovery effort, immediately following the September 11 attack.
"Because NFDA compiled a list of members who initially offered their assistance after the disaster, we are now fully prepared to call on specific members who had hoped to contribute their time and expertise," said Vandenbergh. "Thank you again to all those who have volunteered and offered support related to the disaster in many personal ways."
NFDA is headquartered in Brookfield, Wis., and has an office in Washington, D.C. It is the oldest and largest funeral service association, serving about 13,500 members.
NCFDA CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Nov 19 and Dec 27: "Safety & OSHA Compliance, etc." at Little Church on the Lane Social Hall in Charlotte from 2:00 &endash; 8:00 PM. Contact Chris Headley at 704-334-6421. (5.0 c.e.c.)
Nov 20 NCFDA District 7 Meeting with Dr. John Lambeth on "Occupational Safety & Health for Funeral Homes and Crematoriums" from 9:00 AM &endash; 4:00 PM. (Registration begins at 8:00 AM and pre-registration is preferred by November 15.) Registration fee is $75.00 for NCFDA members for lunch and program and $95.00 for Non-Members. Contact Gary Overcash at 910-895-4422. (6.0 c.e.c.)
Nov 26 NCFDA District 5 Meeting with Kevin O'Barr of NC Department of Labor on OSHA in NC Funeral Homes at Carver's Restaurant, 2711 Capital Blvd., Raleigh with a social at 5:00 PM, Meal at 6:00 PM and program from 7:00 &endash; 9:00 PM. Meal choices are prime rib, steak, chicken or shrimp and the cost is $27.50 for dinner and program or $20.00 for program only. Contact Anthony Minshew at 919-963-3117. (2.0 c.e.c.)
Nov 29 NCFDA District 10 Meeting with Mark Henderson of the NC Board of Mortuary Science at the Sagebrush in Morganton with dinner at 6:00 PM and the program at 7:00 PM. Contact Susan Cox at 828-635-8002. (2.0 c.e.c.)
Nov 30 Hayworth-Miller in Winston-Salem is sponsoring a class in CPR (cardio-pulmonary resuscitation) to be taught by Ronnie Hunt with the Arcadia Volunteer Fire Department. The class will begin around 5:30 - 6:00 p.m. Participants will receive a certification in CPR. No charge and available to anyone who wants to attend. (Donations to the Fire Dept. will be appreciated; however, Hayworth-Miller will make a donation, so individual contributions are not necessary.) No C.E. credits. CALL FOR RESERVATIONS at 336-765-8181, because if not enough interest&emdash;class may be cancelled
Nov 30 "Critical incidence Funeral Arranging" at the Transition Center for Life & Bereavement Care in Greensboro from 9:00 AM &endash; 3:00 PM. Contact Scott Lineberry at 336-272-8230. (5.0 c.e.c.)
Dec 4 "Primary Funeralization Strategies" at Fayetteville Technical Community College in Fayetteville from 11:00 AM &endash; 4:00 PM. Contact Sharmon Herring at 910-678-8210. (5.0 c.e.c.)
Dec 4 "Understanding Grief & Loss" sponsored by the James Sprunt Community College Small Business Center in Kenansville from 9:30 AM &endash; 3:30 PM in the Boyette Building on the main campus. The cost is $35.00 and includes a catered lunch. Pre-registration is required. Contact Julia Herring at 910-296-2430 or e-mail jherring@jscc.cc.nc.us. (Requested 5.0 c.e.c.)
Dec 5 "Service in the 21st Centery" at O'Henry Hotel in Greensboro sponsored by Forbis & Dick Funeral Service from 8:30 AM &endash; 2:30 PM. Contact Mark N. Vickers, Chaplain, 336-275-8404. (5.0 c.e.c.)
Dec 6 "Funding Methods for Prearranged Funeral Contracts" by Vision Insurance at Western Sizzlin' in Conover 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:
Dec 13 Ryan's, Asheville
Dec 7 "Criminal Investigation, etc." at Cleveland Community College in Shelby from 9:00 AM &endash; 4:00 PM. Contact Chris Nanney at 704-481-4117. (5.0 c.e.c.)
Dec 11 NCFDA District 3 Meeting at Nikola's at the Bridgepoint Marina in New Bern with dinner at 6:00 PM and the program at 7:00 PM. Nelson Hayes, Pierce Chemicals/Royal Bond, will cover infectious disease precautions as well as specific handling and embalming concerns relating to such diseases as CJD, Anthrax and smallpox. $20.00 per person. Contact Jody Tyson at 252-747-3675. (2.0 c.e.c.)
Dec 11 State Board Clinic (program for funeral service licensees and embalmers and another program for funeral directors) at McKimmon Center in Raleigh beginning at 9:00 AM. (5.0 c.e.c.)
Dec 12 Monthly meeting of the NC Board of Mortuary Science in Raleigh, NC
Dec 12 "Fundamentals of Outer Burial Containers" at Arnold-Wilbert Corporation in Goldsboro from 8:30 AM &endash; 2:30 PM. Contact Vickie Zimmerman at 919-735-5008. (4.0 c.e.c.)
Dec 18 NCFDA Convention Committee Meeting at 2:00 PM at the Grove Park Inn in Asheville, NC
Dec 18 NCFDA District 11 Meeting at the Sagebrush Steak House, I-40 West (Exit 31), Canton with dinner at 6:00 PM and the program at 7:00 PM. You may order from the menu and the program fee is $5.00 per person. Jerry VeHaun and Michael Neubert, D-Mort Operations in New York City, will convey various aspects of their duties and experiences following the September 11, 2001 disaster in New York City. Extend an invitation to all licensees and non-licensees of your staff! Contact Rick Harwood at 828-645-3011. (1.0 c.e.c.)
Jan 15 &endash;16 NCFDA Regional Seminar.
January 15 Fayetteville Technical Community College
January 16 Catawba Community College, Hickory
Jan 17 NCFDA Board of Directors Meeting in Hickory, NC
Jan 29 Exam at the NC Board of Mortuary Science in Raleigh, NC
Feb 15 "Valentine Fund Raising Gala" sponsored by the NC Funeral Service Political Action Committee in the Southern Pines/Mid Pines resort area.
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
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.
In a message dated 11/15/01 12:14:17 PM, Ron in California sends us:
In Philadelphia the following sign was in the window of a business:
Ordinarily this might be cause to get the anti-Hate groups involved but perhaps in these stressful times one might be tempted to let the proprietors, Goldstein's Funeral Home, simply make their statement
In a message dated 11/12/01 11:16:30 AM, Jill in Wyoming writes:
MAPLEWOOD, N.J., Nov 6 (Reuters) - An 80-year-old man who told his family he would drive himself to the funeral home to die did just that, his wife said on Tuesday.
Funeral home workers found Harold Saber, a pharmacist and war veteran from Verona, New Jersey, dead on Saturday slumped over in his car in the parking lot of the Bernheim-Apter-Goldsticker Suburban Funeral Chapel in Maplewood, New Jersey, a few miles from his home.
"He said many times he would do that," Saber's wife Sylvia Robinson told Reuters. "He never wanted to bother anybody. He felt evidently it was his time and he drove himself there. ... It was a heroic act of love," she said.
The cause of death was not yet known, but Robinson said her husband had been seriously ill for years with diabetes, heart problems and high blood pressure.
Friday night he could not catch his breath and vowed he would not go back into the hospital where he had spent most of the summer and had several toes amputated. Diabetics often suffer from poor circulation, especially in the extremities.
He was gone when his wife awoke on Saturday. A doorman said he saw Saber drive away in the family's 1991 Oldsmobile.
At the funeral home, employees called emergency medical technicians and a medical examiner, who pronounced the man dead just after 11 a.m., Maplewood Police Chief Robert Cimino said.
There was nothing suspicious about the death, which appears to have been from natural causes, Cimino said.
"This was a such a nice, quiet man," Robinson said.
In a message dated 11/14/01 14:58:30, Morris in Pennsylvania writes: John you must of gotten this, thanks for all you do, Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.
NFDA ENews Alert
November 13, 2001
Volume 2, Issue 24
IN THIS ISSUE...
For Immediate Release
Contact: Fay Spano
800-228-6332
November 13, 2001
NEW YORK MEDICAL EXAMINER ACCEPTS NFDA OFFER FOR ADDITIONAL FUNERAL DIRECTOR VOLUNTEERS
NYC Medical Examiner also dealing with AA Flight 587 Casualties
Brookfield, WI - In response to an offer from the president of The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), New York City's Chief Medical Examiner is requesting additional assistance from funeral directors as part of the World Trade Center disaster recovery effort. NFDA is mobilizing six volunteer professionals as of November 12, and will provide additional funeral directors as needed over the next several months to assist the medical examiner's office in working with families to identify the victims of the terrorist attack, as well as documentation of records.
In addition to the September 11 victims, the New York Medical Examiner is also working to identify the casualties that resulted from the November 12 crash of American Airlines Flight 587 in Queens.
"The medical examiner's office expressed its gratitude and was appreciative to learn of the additional support from caring and devoted funeral directors who are experienced in dealing with sensitive issues," said NFDA President Robert Vandenbergh. "Volunteering our services for this recovery effort is merely an extension of the work we do in our communities everyday."
The first group of volunteer professionals who will travel to New York include Matthew Carmon, Windsor, Conn.; Christopher Casey, Waterbury, Conn.; David Dutcavich, Minersville, Pa.; James Fickes, Mechanicsburg, Pa.; Robert Galello, Stratford, Conn.; and Mark Russell, Providence, R.I.
According to the medical examiner's office, the volunteers will be utilized for a two to three week period, before the next set of volunteers may be needed. NFDA will continue to provide volunteers for as long as necessary, according to Vandenbergh.
The new call for volunteers is the result of an October letter sent by Vandenbergh to Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Charles Hirsch. In his letter, Vandenbergh extended NFDA support for any further assistance the medical examiner's office may need during this critical time. More than 1,500 NFDA members across the country volunteered to help in the recovery effort, immediately following the September 11 attack.
"Because NFDA compiled a list of members who initially offered their assistance after the disaster, we are now fully prepared to call on specific members who had hoped to contribute their time and expertise," said Vandenbergh. "Thank you again to all those who have volunteered and offered support related to the disaster in many personal ways."
NFDA is headquartered in Brookfield, Wis., and has an office in Washington, D.C. It is the oldest and largest funeral service association, serving about 13,500 members.
_____________________________________________________
OTHER INFORMATION...
TO ACCESS THE NFDA ONLINE MEMBER PAGE: To access this site requires NFDA members (Category 1 & 2, student, retired and state association executives) to enter their seven-digit membership number, including all zero's (ex. 0012345) in the User Name space and their last name, all small case letters, (ex. jones) in the Password space of the Member Page access pop-up box. These instructions can be viewed at: http://www.nfda.org/memberpage.html
If you have any questions regarding your membership number, send an email to ENews@nfda.org.
TO SUBSCRIBE: If you have received this message by email, you need not do anything to continue to receive it. However, if you would like to receive the NFDA ENews Alerts at an alternate email address, simply click on the following link (or visit the following Internet address) and complete the online "subscribe" form to have NFDA ENews Alerts delivered directly to your alternate email inbox -- http://www.nfda.org/memberpage/enews/index.html
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NFDA ENews Alerts are copyrighted electronic publications of the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) and the information provided therein is one of many valuable services to its paid members.
Copyright ©2001 National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) >>
In a message dated 11/11/01 12:11:32 AM, Mark in California writes:
WASHINGTON - Faster release of government records listing dead people, including their Social Security numbers, would help fight identity fraud, Congress was told Thursday.
But there were concerns about privacy, too.
Information about dead people is available now from the federal government at a subscription price ranging from nearly $3,000 to $13,000.
That availability is getting a closer look now that investigators have determined that all 19 terrorist hijackers had Social Security numbers. Five of them received their numbers from the Social Security Administration, and it is unclear whether the rest assumed identities of other people or made up numbers.
``Whether making this information publicly available is wise is a policy issue that Congress may wish to consider in light of recent events,'' James G. Huse Jr., the SSA's inspector general, said at a hearing of the House Ways and Means Social Security subcommittee.
``We must do more to protect the Social Security number after the number holder's death,'' he said.
But Thursday's hearing focused mostly on making the information public more quickly so financial institutions can battle fraud.
``The more accessible such information is, the more effective the list will be as a tool to detect and deter fraud and identity theft,'' said John Dugan, a lawyer representing the Financial Services Coordinating Council.
The Social Security Administration has been required to compile its Death Master File since a 1980 court settlement that essentially said dead people do not have privacy rights. Identifying information, including Social Security numbers, must be released under the Freedom of Information Act.
The Death Master File contains almost 70 million records with verified and unverified death reports, and includes Social Security numbers, full names, date of death, date of birth, state, county and ZIP code of the last known address.
Financial institutions rely on the file to update their records and to identify fraud. But the information often is received one to two months after a person's death.
Speeding that process and making the information available to more firms could help, said Barbara Bovbjerg of the General Accounting Office, the investigative arm of Congress.
It ``would help to narrow the window of time that a criminal has to open new accounts using a deceased individual's identity,'' she said.
Social Security obtains the information from family members, funeral homes, states, other federal agencies and financial institutions.
The information is provided monthly to the Commerce Department's National Technical Information Service, which sells it to the public on a disk or file at a cost that reimburses the government.
But the Social Security Administration does not guarantee the information is accurate. The system can be described as ``hit or miss,'' Evan Hendricks, publisher of Privacy Times, a specialty publication, said in prepared testimony.
``What is needed is an automated system by which the local governmental agencies in charge of issuing death certificates can instantly report'' to the Social Security Administration, he said.
More than 100 public and private institutions, such as universities, banks, insurance companies and genealogical groups, subscribe to the information.
SSA sends the file to the Commerce Department via Federal Express, but is working toward transmitting the information electronically.
On the Net:
Social Security: http://www.ssa.gov
In a message dated 11/19/01 8:27:52 AM, havenline@earthlink.com writes: Thanks for registering with winacasket.com
the winner for the nov winacasket the "HOMECOMING" manufactured by Astral Industries is:
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Brasco & Sons Memorial Chapels
773 Moody Street
Waltham, MA 02453
Please reregister for the next free casket tha will be given away in March www.winacasket.com and check out our other great products and services @ www.havenline.com
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In a message dated 11/10/01 09:38:14 AM, Henry in Illinois writes:
Loewen posts loss, set to emerge from protection
VANCOUVER, British Columbia (Reuters) - Funeral home operator Loewen Group reported a third-quarter loss Friday as it prepared to ask a court for permission to emerge from bankruptcy protection.
The company recorded a net loss in the quarter of $50.8 million, up from $3 million in the same period last year. The company said it had earnings from operations of $5.9 million before an impairment charge of $34.1 million.
Loewen's shares were delisted from the Toronto and New York exchanges while it was under the court's protection but said its loss in the quarter would have been 71 cents per share, compared with 7 cents per share in the year ago period.
Loewen will go before a U.S. Bankruptcy court on Nov. 27 to seek approval of a reorganization plan that has been endorsed by the company's creditors. Loewen filed for protection in 1999 when it was unable to handle a massive debt.
The Canadian company operates 896 funeral homes and 318 cemeteries in North America and 32 funeral homes in Britain. It gets about 90 percent of its revenues from its U.S. operations.
In a message dated 11/09/01 12:33:58 AM, Ray in Kentucky writes:
Hillenbrand Industries Names Gregory N. Miller VP, Controller and Larry L. Waite, VP, Taxes
BATESVILLE, Ind., Nov. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Hillenbrand Industries, Inc. (NYSE: HB) President and Chief Executive Officer Frederick W. Rockwood today announced the election of two new officers.
Gregory N. Miller, 38, was named vice president and controller for Hillenbrand Industries. Previously, Miller held a number of positions with Newell Rubbermaid Inc., Freeport, Ill., and its divisions. Positions he held included group vice president and controller, photo fashions and juvenile products, Newell Rubbermaid; vice president and controller, Little Tikes Company, a Newell Rubbermaid division; vice president and controller, Newell Window Furnishings/Kirsch; and manager of cost/financial planning and analysis, Newell Window Furnishings. Prior to his Newell positions, Miller held positions with the accounting firms of Deloitte & Touche LLP, St. Louis, Mo., and Grant Thornton, Colorado Springs, Colo.
Miller is a certified public accountant and earned a bachelor's degree, accounting, from the University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, Iowa, in 1985.
Also, Larry L. Waite, 41, was named vice president, taxes for Hillenbrand Industries. Waite was previously a senior manager with Arthur Anderson LLP, Columbus, Ohio; senior manager, KPMG LLP, Cincinnati, Ohio; director of taxes and treasury, Black Clawson Company, Middletown, Ohio; and tax manager, Deloitte & Touche LLP, St. Louis, Mo.; tax specialist, Pannell, Kerr, Forster, in Houston, Texas.
He earned a bachelor's degree, business administration, from Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches, Texas, in 1983.
James D. Van De Velde, 55, Hillenbrand Industries' former vice president, controller, and acting vice president, taxes, recently announced his retirement effective in early March 2002. He was named vice president, chief accounting officer for Hillenbrand Industries on an interim basis to ensure a smooth transition of leadership in both the controller and tax functions. He began his career with Hillenbrand Industries in 1980 as director, taxes and was named vice president, controller in 1991 and has been acting vice president, taxes, since June 2000.
Hillenbrand Industries Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Scott K. Sorensen said, "For more than 20 years, Jim Van De Velde has provided Hillenbrand Industries' finance function excellent business and personnel leadership. His insights, strong work ethic, leadership and friendship will be missed by many when he retires next year. I appreciate his willingness to remain a few additional months to ensure a smooth transition in our finance organization. We are very pleased to have Greg Miller and Larry Waite join our team. They each bring diverse business experiences and fresh perspectives. Their combined experience will strengthen our finance organization's ability to capture the full potential of our portfolio of businesses to increase value for our shareholders."
About Hillenbrand Industries Inc.
Hillenbrand Industries, Inc., headquartered in Batesville, Indiana, is a publicly traded holding company for three major wholly owned businesses serving the funeral services and health care industries. All three subsidiaries have headquarters in Batesville, Indiana.
Hillenbrand Industries' Health Care Group consists of Hill-Rom Company, a recognized leader in the worldwide health care community providing sales, rentals, service and support for products including beds, therapy surfaces, stretchers, infant warmers, incubators, furniture, communication systems, surgical columns, medical gas management systems, modular headwalls and lighting systems.
The company's Funeral Services Group consists of two businesses: Batesville Casket Company, the leading manufacturer and supplier of burial caskets, cremation products and related services to licensed funeral homes; and Forethought Financial Services, the leading provider of insurance and trust-based financial products and services for pre-planning funeral services.
In a message dated 11/13/01 3:34:52 PM, Hayes1810 writes:
John,
I just wanted to inform you of the passing of Dr. George Poston the president of Commonwealth Institute Of Funeral Service in Houston,Texas. When I recieve any new news about this I will inform you or if you have any questions you can e-mail me @ HAYES1810@AOL.com
Thank You,
Walter Patrick Hayes III
In a message dated 11/13/01 8:43:27 AM, jschoenecker@nfda.org writes:
For Release upon Receipt November 8, 2001
FSEF 2001- 10
NEW MISSION FOR FUNERAL SERVICE EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION
Brookfield, Wis. * November 8, 2001 *Trustees of the Funeral Service Educational Foundation (FSEF), following a strategic-planning meeting, are moving the Foundation in a new direction. Results of the July meeting include a new name, a new mission, and a new vision.
In 2002, FSEF will change its name to the Funeral Service Foundation. This change represents a move away from the foundation*s current educational mission.
*After a great deal of hard work and contemplation, the trustees have fashioned a new foundation designed to be the positive and unifying voice representing the compassion, generosity, and care of the funeral profession,* stated immediate past FSEF Chairman J. Mark Busch.
The new Funeral Service Foundation will focus on charitable works. It will be the leading independent charitable organization representing the funeral service community.
The mission of the new Funeral Service Foundation reads:
The Funeral Service Foundation, through charitable gifts and grants, provides resources for:
Career and professional development
Funeral service and allied professions
Public awareness and education
The improvement of children*s lives
*The transition from FSEF and its educational focus to the more charitable Funeral Service Foundation will occur over the next 12 to 18 months,* said Busch.
The Funeral Service Foundation is headquartered in Brookfield, Wisconsin.
-end-
For More Information, Contact:
Connie Smith 877-402-5900
In a message dated 11/7/01 8:54:24 PM, Steve in Arizona writes:
Dear John,
Why are some facts so hard to learn for a big organization like NFDA? They underplay the important issues before funeral service (when corporations raid preneed funds and Church owned or sanctioned mortuaries) and lie and mislead about the Inedependent Florida Funeral Directors Association booth.
Now they try to discredit ICFA's coalition with the music licensing unions. You must question the the mindset of our officers. Are they just paranoic bunker mentality soldiers beating up anyone near their turf? Or shouldn't they be uniters of funeral service. Help us all speak together. Use your size to unite, not divide. Lead us by example in honesty and true statements rather than sniping and misleading.
The sad part is this is the organization that the national press goes to when they need funeral service related information.
With their current mode of thought, do we, the dues paying members, and practioners of final care services, really wish these people to speak for us?
=======
Good Point Steve, I have been watching the Associations for years and lets all face it, the Associations are a living for it's employees, dedicated as most are, paramount is income, NFDA and ICFA and every other association needs income, just as funeral professionals awkwardly will admit Funeral Homes and Cemeteries make a profit or eat up what ever would be a profit on Salaries. Just for the sake of understanding: lets say that the music license agreement pays $100 commission per license to the association and our association sells 5 thousand licenses, doing the math 5000 times 100 is that is a $500 thousand in income for a paper shuffle, how about your state association lets talk about Massachusetts I am told with one hundred million in preneed in the State Associations affiliated New England Funeral Trust and a 1 percent kick back to the association's trust that is a cool million in income to someone. Associations just like Funeral Homes, Mortuaries, Crematories and Cemeteries are in business, how did they get that way and why will they stay that way, bluntly because members let them become that way, members are too busy to ever even call their association, the associations birth mission was to do good for it's members. If Latham or Simplex Time Clock Company paid commissions to Associations you can bet the bank, Fair Wage and Hour would be on the fore front and compliance demanded of each member. What good have you done for your association this year? For the association employees what good have you done for your members? if we work together we will work wonders, our fore fathers built these associations and the new mood may be "this is not your fathers association anymore" it does not belong to the members either, who's association is it? Who is the customer? Standing by for NFDA's new higher paid CEO to be positioned, it will be interesting to see who ends up flying their butt off around the country spending no less than 200 days away from their office, the volunteer president or the salaried Executive CEO. Step up to the plate and become a player the more players the better the game. Solution is to engage one another.
Just my opinion: John L McDonough, care to enlighten me?
RESTON, VA (November 9, 2001) - The International Cemetery and Funeral
Association's Annual Convention & Exposition, April 24-27 at the Orlando
Renaissance Resort in Orlando, Florida, offers three days of "no-fluff"
educational programming, exhibits and networking. Highlights include:
The Great Debate II: Preneed vs. At-Need - ICFA's Great Debate I drew
rave reviews, and this year's debate is sure to prove even more
entertaining and informative. Join us as ICFA Secretary Paul Elvig
squares off with well-known funeral director and author Thomas Lynch to
debate the pros and cons of prearrangement.
Unparalleled Marketing Research - ICFA has long been recognized as the
cemetery and funeral industry's top organization for preneed marketing
education. This year, the Convention presents three of the industry's
most knowledgeable and innovative executives to offer research and
practical advice for independent operators on marketing to today's
consumers. Alan Creedy of Trust-100 will address "Consumer Trends in
Marketing," Daniel Buchanan of the Batesville Casket Company will offer
insight into "Marketing Through Personalization," and William Robinson
of the Fortis Family will look at "How to Gain and Retain Market Share."
Cemetery and Funeral Home Management Breakout Session - Owners and
managers won't want to miss this four-part segment covering "Financing
Funeral Homes," "Meeting the Challenge of Today's Immigration Cremation
Culture," "Survivors: The Weakest Links - Dealing With Dysfunctional
Families" and "Good Employees: How Do You Find Them and Where Do You
Look?"
Maintenance Management Breakout Session - "Maintenance and Magic" will
present hands-on "how-to" information for maintenance supervisors and
personnel as well as cemetery owners/operators. An experienced team of
cemetery and memorial park veterans will cover topics such as equipment
purchases, beautifying the property and effective improvement programs.
2002 Exposition - With 11 hours of exhibit show time and more than 180
booths, this year's ICFA Expo will offer industry members an exceptional
opportunity to meet industry suppliers and see firsthand the products
and services available to help them expand their businesses and improve
their services. As always, the ICFA will provide continuous free food
and beverage service throughout the show.
For more information on the ICFA 2002 Convention & Exposition, call
1-800-645-7700 or visit the "Educational Opportunities" page 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.
Please consider the release below for publication in your next edition.
Let me know if you have any questions. Thank you!
Linda Budzinski
Communications Director
International Cemetery and Funeral Association
Reston, Virginia
For Immediate Release
For More Information, Please Contact:
Linda Budzinski
1-800-645-7700
lacorn@icfa.org
NAKED SALES IV: AN INNOVATIVE PROGRAM FOR CHANGING TIMES
RESTON, VA (November 9, 2001) &endash; Never has there been a more appropriate
and rewarding time to be involved in preneed sales and marketing.
President Bush has said it is important for all of us to get on with the
business of America, and for the cemetery and funeral industry that
means continuing to promote the wisdom of prearrangement and the value
of memorialization.
Throughout the world in recent weeks, we have seen many expressions of
the basic human need to remember and memorialize. And as evidenced by
the vast increase in people seeking out information on estate planning
and other end-of-life issues, we know that Americans have never been
more aware of their own mortality. Our industry should feel reaffirmed
that the services we provide are as meaningful now as ever before.
The ICFA's Naked Sales IV Conference, January 17-18, 2002, at Caesars
Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada, will offer hundreds of practical ideas to
help attendees better serve their communities in today's changing
environment. In just two days, the conference will present 19
educational sessions by 24 industry leaders as well as excellent
networking opportunities with sales managers from across the country. As
with Naked Sales I-III, attendees will receive a binder filled with
useful handouts and ancillary information that they can take back to
their locations and begin using immediately.
The Conference program will focus on four themes of primary concern for
preneed sales programs today:
o Innovation&emdash;The cemetery and funeral industry is slow to change and
often has trouble innovating. Naked Sales IV will demonstrate specific
techniques for innovation and offer prime examples of innovative sales
and marketing programs being used in the industry today ... ideas you
can replicate in your own community.
o Information Equals Sales&emdash;In today's environment, we need to be an
information resource for consumers. Likewise, we need to have a solid
understanding of who those consumers are and what their needs are. We'll
give you a roadmap for understanding and communicating effectively with
your market.
o Creating A-Teams&emdash;A solid staff is your greatest resource. We'll offer
proven ideas for developing effective managers and high-performing sales
teams.
o Motivating Your Sales Team&emdash;What are the most effective methods sales
organizations use to motivate their sales forces? We'll take a look at
some inexpensive and creative ways to get the most out of each player on
your team.
Naked Sales IV is geared toward cemetery and funeral home sales
managers, funeral directors, owners, managers, and top sales counselors
and family service staff who are ready to take the next step. With a
full slate of new topics and speakers, it will benefit those who have
attended Naked Sales Conferences in the past as well as first-time
attendees. The Conference and the trip to Las Vegas combine to make an
enticing incentive for sales team promotions and contests, and companies
sending two or more staff receive discounted registration fees.
The early registration deadline and hotel reservation cut-off date is
December 10. For a copy of the program and registration materials, call
the ICFA at 1-800-645-7700 or visit the "Educational Opportunities"
section 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.
News Channel 9: Casket Business Goes Up In Flames
Casket Business Goes Up In Flames
Story by Shawanna Kendrick on Sat, Nov 10th 2001 (11:38 PM)
A controversial Chattanooga business goes up in flames, but a co-owner says fire investigators believe it was accidental. The Craigmiles and Wilson Casket warehouse went up in flames Saturday evening.
Fire investigators say the blaze started in the back of the showroom.
Fortunately no one was there when the fire broke out.
Firefighters had to burst into the business to contain the blaze.
They also entered two neighboring businesses to make sure the fire did not spread.
We spoke with one of the owners, Nathaniel Craigmiles, and he says investigators have told him the fire is accidental.
Mr. Craigmiles also says the casket warehouse will be opening in another location.
Craigmiles and Wilson also have a store on Highway 58.
The casket retailers successfully lead the fight to allow stores to sell caskets directly to consumers, against much opposition.
NCFDA E-LINE NOVEMBER 7, 2001
STATE BOARD ELECTION RESULTS
There were 1,157 ballots received with 1,131 ballots determined acceptable. The winning candidate in each category is noted below :
Category I:
Harvey Leavitt, III 630
Beacham McDougald 492
Category II:
Jack Briggs 693
Jody Tyson 424
Mr. Willis H. "Bill" Groce, Jr. , Groce Funeral Home of Asheville, was elected by the State Board members to fill the unexpired term of Michael McGhee, who resigned earlier this year.
ARLINGTON CEMETERY NO LONGER ACCEPTING MAILED CREMATED REMAINS
The information below is on the Arlington Cemetery website:
http://arlingtoncemetery.org/special_notice.html
To All Family Members, Personal Representatives and Funeral Directors
Due to events of September 11, 2001, and the major concerns with postal issues, effective October 29, 2001, Arlington National Cemetery will no longer accept cremated remains mailed through the U.S. Postal Services or delivered by common carriers. Family members and funeral home representatives may hand carry these remains to Arlington on the day of the service or up to three (3) working days prior to the service.
When out of town family members/friends are not attending the interment/inurnment, the next-of-kin or personal representative should arrange through their local funeral home/cremation society for delivery. Delivery should be arranged with a Washington, DC area funeral home for further delivery to Arlington National Cemetery.
NCFDA CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Nov 8 NCFDA 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. Contact C. S. Hanchey at 252-752-2101. (2.0 c.e.c.)
Nov 8 "Funding Methods for Prearranged Funeral Contracts" by Vision Insurance Western Sizzlin', Conover 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:
Nov 15 Ryan's, Asheville
Dec 6 Western Sizzlin', Conover
Dec 13 Ryan's, Asheville
Nov 13 NCFDA Board of Directors Meeting at the School of Funeral Service at Fayetteville Technical Community College at 10:00 AM.
Nov 14 "Cremation in the New Millennium," etc. at the Goldsboro Country Club sponsored by Arnold Wilbert Corporation in conjunction with the NC Crematory Authority from 8:30 AM &endash; 3:30 PM. Fee: $25.00 includes lunch buffet. Contact Vickie Zimmerman at 800-672-4748. (5.0 c.e.c.)
Nov 14 NCFDA District 6 Meeting: Plans for a meeting on this date have been postponed at this time.
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.
Nov 19 "Safety & OSHA Compliance, etc." at Little Church on the Lane Social Hall in Charlotte from 2:00 &endash; 8:00 PM. Contact Chris Headley at 704-334-6421. (5.0 c.e.c.)
Nov 20 NCFDA District 7 Meeting with Dr. John Lambeth on "Occupational Safety & Health for Funeral Homes and Crematoriums" from 9:00 AM &endash; 4:00 PM. (Registration begins at 8:00 AM and pre-registration is preferred by November 15.) Registration fee is $75.00 for NCFDA members for lunch and program and $95.00 for Non-Members. Contact Gary Overcash at 910-895-4422. (6.0 c.e.c.)
Nov 26 NCFDA District 5 Meeting with Kevin O'Barr of NC Department of Labor on OSHA in NC Funeral Homes at Carver's Restaurant, 2711 Capital Blvd., Raleigh with a social at 5:00 PM, Meal at 6:00 PM and program from 7:00 &endash; 9:00 PM. Meal choices are prime rib, steak, chicken or shrimp and the cost is $27.50 for dinner and program or $20.00 for program only. Contact Anthony Minshew at 919-963-3117. (2.0 c.e.c.)
Nov 29 NCFDA District 10 Meeting with Mark Henderson of the NC Board of Mortuary Science at the Sagebrush in Morganton with dinner at 6:00 PM and the program at 7:00 PM. Contact Susan Cox at 828-635-8002. (2.0 c.e.c.)
Dec 4 "Understanding Grief & Loss" sponsored by the James Sprunt Community College Small Business Center in Kenansville from 9:30 AM &endash; 3:30 PM in the Boyette Building on the main campus. The cost is $35.00 and includes a catered lunch. Pre-registration is required. Contact Julia Herring at 910-296-2430 or e-mail jherring@jscc.cc.nc.us. (Requested 5.0 c.e.c.)
Dec 7 "Criminal Investigation, etc." at Cleveland Community College in Shelby from 9:00 AM &endash; 4:00 PM. Contact Chris Nanney at 704-481-4117. (5.0 c.e.c.)
Dec 11 NCFDA District 3 Meeting at Nikola's at the Bridgepoint Marina in New Bern with dinner at 6:00 PM and the program at 7:00 PM. Nelson Hayes, Pierce Chemicals/Royal Bond, will cover infectious disease precautions as well as specific handling and embalming concerns relating to such diseases as CJD, Anthrax and smallpox. $20.00 per person. Contact Jody Tyson at 252-747-3675. (2.0 c.e.c.)
Dec 12 "Fundamentals of Outer Burial Containers" at Arnold-Wilbert Corp. in Goldsboro from 8:30 AM &endash; 2:30 PM. Contact Vickie Zimmerman at 919-735-5008. (4.0 c.e.c.)
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 11/7/01 5:01:37 PM, Beacham in North Carolina writes: All of my best wishes to Harvey Leavitt for reelection, to Jack Briggs on his election to the NC Board of Mortuary Science, and to Bill Groce for his appointment to the Board.
Jack and Bill are both progressive and positive professionals who will serve the licensees and public very well. The new executive director, Mark Henderson, will undoubtedly work well with both of them.
Beannachd leibh,
Beacham McDougald
December 2001 Car and Driver Features S&S Masterpiece purchased by Lary DeWitt of the Lyon-DeWitt Funeral Home in Campbellsville, Kentucky. Thanks to Car and Driver we know the 2001 North Star Powered Masterpiece goes from 0 ro 60 mph in 10.6 seconds and has a top speed (governor limited) 94 mph and was purchased for $75,475. Car and driver lists the car as front engine, front wheel drive, two passenger, 5 door wagon. ALSO in the issue a nice feature on this year's Professional Car Society meeting in Lebanon, Missouri, it's Host is FD Ken Howe of the Holman Howe Funeral Home in Lebanon, Missouri, Congratulations to both Ken Howe and Larry DeWitt on making the funeral profession look it's best.
ALSO this month's American Funeral Director Features Professional Vehicles in much more detail.
In a message dated 11/4/01 11:09:32 PM, Brian in New York writes:
Dear fellow director,
Today I was at a funeral home where the family asked if the funeral home got easels in order to mount 2 large pictures of the deceased. The director said no. I thought about the flower stands sitting in the backyard.
The pictures were on very light cardboard material so mounting them on the flower stand with masking tape worked out very well. The hook at the top of the stand could be bent backwards and the picture could go in front of the hook.
I am sure it could be rigged to mount a chalkboard to the flower stand for Collages and etc.
Brian Hitchman
In a message dated 11/6/01 10:50:00 AM, Dan in California writes: It seems that what is actually a minor issue, music licensing which is of marginal value since we need only provide a CD player and let the family play whatever they want to avoid the entire issue. What is interesting now that NFDA has realized the importance of representing proprietors, is that ICFA is becoming more competitive as it strives to represent mortuaries and cemeteries simultaneously. Were it realized that cemeteries are places of selplechre not providers of funeral service, we might begin to understand the need to maintain independent representation for funeral homes. How diffused must our "representation" become? Is it improper to point out that our industry or pseudo profession is economically depressed, that preneed payouts may face a crisis of underfunding, that with preneed we face eventual ridicule because our own press admits we should expect higher that normal sales with preneed. We have serious issues that beg our focused attention and it would be a disservice to allow minor issues to interfere.
Dan
In a message dated 11/5/01 8:28:19 PM, Mike in Massachusetts writes:
Douglas S. Carr
November 3, Douglas S. Carr, 81, of Whitinsville, a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer for 60 years. Survived by his wife of 59 years, Helenora (Slater); sons Douglas S. Carr, Jr. and Bruce M. Carr of Whitinsville, Daughters Judith A. Meichelbeck, of Grafton, and Jeannie L. Katz of Sutton; Brother, Curtis M. Carr, of Whitinsville; nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Funeral service Wednesday, 11 a.m., in the Village Congregational Church, Whitinsville, followed by burial in Pine Grove Cemetery. Calling hours 5-8 p.m., Tuesday, in the Carr Funeral Home, 24 Hill St., Whitinsville. Please omit flowers. Memorial donations may be made to the Northbridge Fire Dept. Ambulance Fund, Ma
In a message dated 11/14/01 11:15:09 PM, raffyjose@hotmail.com writes: Dear John, It was a pleasure seeing you again at the convention. I am sorry I have lost touch with the group. I promise to try and re-connect if you can email me on
how I can link with your group once more. Actually, I am writing to ask for some information about medical (embalming room)waste disposal. I am currently working with a group of lawmakers here in the Philippines in trying to pass a law that will properly dispose of medical waste. Do you have any sites or resource person that I can email in order to gather more information ? I will appreciate any information you can collect from EFSA or any goverment agency that handles this.Thank you again and more power to you.
Raffy Jose the_addams_family@vasia.com
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In a message dated 11/11/01 3:19:27 AM, Brian in New York writes: Unbelievable! Pictures were taken by a non professional which I think is truly amazing. There are 20 pictures in all so keep hitting next (below bottom right corner of each picture.) When you get to the last one go back to the 1st one to see how the view had changed. There are 20 pictures.
click here ----> World Trade Center Pictures
or copy/paste: ----> http://camazotz.com/wtc/1.html
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a message dated 11/11/01 11:36:43 PM, AGRAVEgal writes:
The Newsletter has been updated. You can check out A Grave Undertaking at www.agravegal.com.
--Betty Lynn
The life that conquers is the life that moves with a steady resolution and persistence toward a predetermined goal. Those who succeed are those who have thoroughly learned the immense importance of plan in life, and the tragic brevity of time. -- W.J. Davison >>
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a message dated 11/11/01 4:49:33 PM, Mike in Florida writes:
A drunk man in an Oldsmobile,
they said, had run the light
that caused the six-car pileup
on 109 that night.
When broken bodies lay about
and blood was everywhere,
the sirens screamed out elegies
for death was in the air.
A mother, trapped inside her car,
was heard above the noise;
her plaintive plea near split the air:
"Oh, God, please spare my boys!"
She fought to loose her pinioned hands;
she struggled to get free,
but mangled metal held her fast
in grim captivity.
Her frightened eyes then focused on where the back seat once had been,
but all she saw was broken glass
and two children's seats crushed in.
Her twins were nowhere to be seen;
she did not hear them cry,
and then she prayed they'd been thrown free,
"Oh, God, don't let them die!"
Then firemen came and cut her loose,
but when they searched the back,
they found therein no little boys,
but the seat belts were intact.
They thought the woman had gone mad and was traveling alone,
but when they turned to question her,
they discovered she was gone.
Policemen saw her running wild and screaming above the noise
in beseeching supplication,
"Please help me find my boys!
They're four years old and wear blue shirts;
their jeans are blue to match."
One cop spoke up, "They're in my car, and they don't have a scratch.
They said their daddy put them there and gave them each a cone,
then told them both to wait for Mom
to come and take them home.
I've searched the area high and low,
but I can't find their dad.
He must have fled the scene, I guess,
and that is very bad."
The mother hugged the twins and said, while wiping at a tear,
"He could not flee the scene, you see,
for he's been dead a year."
The cop just looked confused and asked, "Now, how can that be true?"
The boys said, "Mommy,
Daddy came and left a kiss for you.
He told us not to worry and
that you would be all right,
and then he put us in this car
with the pretty, flashing light.
We wanted him to stay with us,
because we miss him so,
but Mommy, he just hugged us tight and said he had to go.
He said someday we'd understand and told us not to fuss,
and he said to tell you, Mommy,
he's watching over us."
The mother knew without a doubt that what they spoke was true,
for she recalled their dad's last words,
"I will watch over you."
The firemen's notes could not
explain the twisted, mangled car,
and how the three of them
escaped without a single scar.
But on the cop's report was scribed,
in print so very fine,
An angel walked the beat tonight
on Highway 109.
Lark Bennett
Gulfport Police Department
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a message dated 11/9/01 9:28:19 PM, John in Virginia writes: Hi John, in reference to a message dated 10/27/01, Melissa wrote a message about anthrax. She wanted people to know that Kim who wrote an article for the Dodge Company concerning anthrax was not an embalmer. Kim Collison and the Dodge company have never said or implied she was an embalmer. The Dodge Company has stated in their publications that, "Kimberly Collison is a registered medical technologist employed by Spectrum Health, a 900n bed hospital, as the supervisor of Laboratory Support Services and Pediatric Services. Spectrum is a regional tertiary care hospital, as well as a women's and children's center in Grand Rapids, Michigan."
I hope this sets the matter straight. Melissa is probably the only one who thought she was an embalmer. All you have to do is read.
John
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The information regarding Arlington National Cemetery's refusal to accept cremains delivered by USPS or common carrier is interesting.
One can easily understand that the concern in for an act of terrorism.
Does the action taken solve the problem or add to the list of unnecessary expenses associated with final disposition?
How does the action taken solve any foreseen problem?
Most funeral directors would not open a container containing cremains before delivery to the cemetery, except for inurnment. Even then, the plastic bag containing the cremains would often be placed intact into the urn or urn vault.
How would the funeral director be better prepared to determine that the contents were dangerous than the government employees at the Arlington National Cemetery?
Warm regards,
Walter & Barbara Crox
Covenant Funeral Service
2114 Chapman Road
Chattanooga, TN 37421
(423) 485-0911 * * (423) 485-0970 FAX
www.CovenantFuneral.com
"REVERENCE, DIGNITY, & REASONABLE PRICES"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a message dated 11/11/01 1:05:58 PM, Susan in North Carolina writes:
John, Thanks for the assistance!
Question: Item # 10 Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, free information...
I'm not finding it in the writeups. Plenty on Anthrax, Thanks!
I really enjoyed Dennis C. McGee, Jr.'s Elements of Celebrating a Life. I
hear horror stories from families, after they have lost a loved one, that
they were treated like a number and were not ever offered the option of
doing any personalization with their loved one's final arrangements. So
what if it does take a little extra work on our part...there is still no law
in North Carolina that says anyone must call on a funeral director for any
service that we offer. With the rise of internet sales of funeral
merchandise, perhaps it is time that we realized that what they do call us
for is service. I try to emphasize to the families we serve that there will
be two primary things we assist them with: Disposition and Memorialization.
Maybe it's time to get that across to the rest of us.
Thanks for keeping us up to date!
Susan in NC
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a message dated 11/16/01 5:26:57 PM, Vinny in New York sends us:
John FYI about stock prices
Company Name: Service Corporation International
Ticker Symbol: SRV
Exchange: NYSE
Last Trade: 11/16/2001 4:01:00 pm
Previous Close: 6.3
Opening Price: 6.4
Closing Price: 6.25
Change: Down 0.05
Today's Low: 6.12
Today's High: 6.5
Volume: 544700
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a message dated 11/6/01 12:40:45 PM, Frank in Conecticut writes:
John,
I have a 1983 Buick Superior hearse for sale, very good condition, 60K miles. Black with blue cloth. Still a great looking vehichle! $4700.00 Please contact Frank Hull, 203-888-2538, or online at FRANKLYNFD@aol.com
Thank you.
Frank Hull
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a message dated 11/6/01 6:57:54 AM, DeathFive0@aol.com writes:
I have come across a first year student at one of your local funeral service school's up there that is looking to work part time (or maybe even free to a certain extent) for a non-Jewish home in the Boston area working funerals and assisting/doing embalming.
Let me know if you personally know of or know anyone who would be interested. I will eventually post something on the weekly update I guess.
Thanks
Eric
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a message dated 11/11/01 3:37:05 PM, DeathFive0 writes: 35-year old female first year student at North East Mass Funeral School looking for part time job working funerals and observing in prep room. Currently working for Jewish firm but needs more experience outside their religion's funeral rites and practices. May work for free if needed.
email: Deathfive0@aol.com and Eric will forward your email to her
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
You are welcome, to write us with your comments, suggestions, complaints and especially stories about funeral service. Please remember only FSPA members will have information posted in the weekly update, it's easy click here ---> Mailto:Lowellma@aol.com Your participation is appreciated and essential.
You are welcome, to post your professional article here, you need to author your article and agree it will be posted with your full name. Please remember only FSPA members will have information posted in the weekly update, it's easy click here ---> Mailto:Lowellma@aol.com Your participation is appreciated and essential.
FUNERAL SERVICE PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION does not share membership info with anyone, no one will be given your information with out your permission or a court order.
To Join the Funeral Service Professional Association you must derive some of your income from the funeral industry, students and retirees from the funeral profession are welcome as well, please e-mail the following information.
If you skip answering one of the seven questions, you are wasting your time, the standards are the same for everyone, FSPA is open to everyone in funeral service, we are all equals here no exceptions, FSPA will not tell anyone who you are unless you request your identity be disclosed, FSPA is only open to any type of Funeral Service Professional, or Funeral Service Affiliate such as: Funeral Association employees, Mortuary School Students, Funeral Service product providers and Funeral Service Media.
Accountants will tell you FSPA is a write off ! Please check with your accountant. If s/he approves Go get yourself a nice laptop and possibly write off your hardware as well as AOL or other Internet service charge as an expense, the more your participate in FSPA the more proof you have.
If you have a suggested question this please just send it along, none of FSPA 's mail will be possible with out your sending information into us,
To make life easier on me
First and foremost, Send your info or story in to FSPA.
2nd Please put on the top line your name and location, like "John from Massachusetts writes :"
3rd please address the subject line put:
This is just a hobby, if you send and don't address the subject line with FSPA, it usually delete it because it looks like junk mail, FSPA get over 50 pieces of mail a day, most gets deleted, THE SUBJECT LINE is the key so please, use the subject line properly. Put FSPA in the Subject line along with the flavor of your message.
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE the posting(s) you send are some times resent to others be careful, if you are proud of what you said and want the world to know how you feel Put your name, location and e-mail address at the end.
However If you don't want the world to know your ideas and you want to remain anonymous, just put name withheld at the end. FSPA does not reveal who its members are nor does FSPA lend it's list of members to others. There is no need to identify yourself. If you are not proud of your response (like the air line lost a body on us) it is not recommended you identify yourself, since we can all learn from problems. We need your input! Your answers go all over the place, E-mail is so easy to forward. We are happy to learn from your problems and issues, there is no need to identify yourself if you don't want to, South Western United States if just fine.
If the article you want is from a commercial publisher YOU MUST get permission from the person or company who created the story.
Because e-mail can be altered electronically, the integrity of this communication cannot be guaranteed. Any of the items you read here, you are free to reuse, understand, the postings are just that, the items are for the most part cut and pasted from E-mail, others FAXed and of course from funeral publications and other media. What you see here is never checked, if you do decide to republish or quote any thing FSPA puts out, check it out, please do not name the individual who sent the article without their permission. If you see fit to use any information from FSPA please give us credit. Ages ago a state association news letter posted a quote using the senders name, she was not a happy camper nor was her company, please use caution in the future. We appreciate your understanding and we need your support.
Consider these steps for your life.
1. Work like you don't need the money.
2. Love like you've never been hurt.
3. Dance like you do when nobody's watching.
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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