Adorning our back office are just over forty holiday cards thus far: Fairhaven Memorial Park & Mortuary out there in Sunny California, Ron Fergerson, Marla Noel and Vic Savino, my coworkers remarked their happy holiday card is the best on so far, Sue Simon's card is the most distinctive. Each day more cards come in from all over the world, thanks for for spreading holiday cheer.
In a message dated 12/5/01 9:06:41 AM, Anonymous sends us:
WTC Victims May Have Been 'Vaporized'
By Richard Pyle
Associated Press Writers
Tuesday, December 4, 2001; 2:21 PM
NEW YORK Three months after the World Trade Center attack, victims' families are being forced to face the ghastly possibility that many of the dead were "vaporized," as the medical examiner put it, and may never be identified.
So far, fewer than 500 victims have been positively identified out of the roughly 3,000 feared dead. Sixty were identified solely through DNA.
The city and state have allowed victims' families to obtain death certificates without proof of a body, but many families place great importance on an ID based on actual remains.
"Until you have something tangible, you just keep hoping maybe there'll be some sort of miracle," said Jeanne Maurer, whose 31-year-old daughter, Jill Campbell, is presumed dead. "You can't accept it until you have something.
"I still say, 'My daughter's missing,'" Maurer said.
Many victims will undoubtedly be identified. Nearly 10,000 body parts have been pulled from the mountains of mangled metal and matchstick-size splinters at ground zero.
But Dr. Charles Hirsch, the chief medical examiner, triggered an angry response two weeks ago when he told grieving relatives that many bodies no one is sure how many had been "vaporized" and were beyond identification.
Hirsch declined to be interviewed. But spokeswoman Ellen Borakove said he meant that bodies were consumed by blazing fuel from the two crashed airliners, or "rendered into dust" when the 1,100-foot skyscrapers collapsed, one concrete slab floor onto another.
Dr. Michael Baden, the state's chief forensic pathologist and a top expert in the field, said in September that most bodies should be identifiable because the fires while hot enough to melt steel did not reach the 3,200-degree, 30-minute level necessary to incinerate a body.
Borakove said her office agrees with Baden's calculation as applied to a full body. "But when the planes hit the buildings, the bodies that were in the planes as well as some of the bodies that were in the buildings were fragmented upon impact, and those fragments burn more quickly," she said.
The combination of fire and compression from tons of rubble could reduce a human body to a small amount of tissue and bone, said Dr. Cyril Wecht, a top forensic pathologist in Pittsburgh. And finding such small samples of DNA in 1.2 million tons of rubble spread over 16 acres is a difficult proposition.
"There are pieces," he said. "But how do you identify and extract it from other similarly appearing pieces at the site bricks, mortar, rubble?"
Marian Fontana, president of the Sept. 11 Widows and Victims' Families Association, said: "My fear is that financial incentives will cause the city to clean up the site quickly, rather than to treat it as a retrieval site and do things in a dignified way."
Her firefighter husband, Dave, is among the missing.
In particular, families are worried that remains will end up at the Staten Island landfill where trade center debris is taken and sorted.
"The remains shouldn't end up in the garbage heap," Maurer said.
Forensic pathologists are trying to match the DNA of tissue taken from ground zero with the DNA of known victims. Victims' families have supplied clothes, hairbrushes and other personal items from which DNA could be lifted for comparison.
Hirsch's task is unprecedented in size. After the Oklahoma City bombing, all 168 people killed were eventually identified. But even after four years, some of the recovered tissue and bone were never linked to any of the victims.
Borakove said recently developed computer software enables more efficient DNA identification.
In the meantime, some families, like the Maurers, are waiting to schedule services.
"We're not ready really for a memorial," said her father, Joseph Maurer. "We'll do a funeral with remains; if we find them.
THEIR LAST GIFTS
for my father Joseph Lapidus 1899-1990
her last gift to him
the final year at home
his vigor, his bright wit, the mechanics of his body
slowly fading, until only love
was left
his last gift to me
a shining power of example
how to live and how to die
the grace of family love and mourning well
from the weeping home attendant
who believed his last I'm fine
and called the ambulance two hours too late
the right to die at home
and not under glaring lights among strangers
his last gift to her
a respite from her ceaseless loving care
and freedom for a final few good years
as the spadeful of earth thuds onto the coffin
and I think that's not my daddy in that box
the rabbi says this was just the house for his spirit
the spirit lives forever
and with the words mine soars to meet his
such a short time to hurt
such a long time to be immortal
Fort Hill Cemetery, 1991
our plot's a bargain: six feet of earth with ocean view
bounded by stone wall and tree, the Montauks' Council Rock
a landmark to respect
they chose well for burial
laying their loved ones on the highest ground
where deer pause in their bounding progress through rough grass
and mourners, and perhaps the dead as well
can look out to where on the horizon
the sea lies silver in the winter light
our plot's a double-decker, and depending
on which of us chooses to hurry on and which to linger
thirty or forty years from now, perhaps, I will lie
here in your arms or you in mine
and maybe we will climb as we did yesterday
along the tangled path to the high point
take flight in the lambent air and travel
with steady beats above the illimitable sea
Elizabeth Zelvin
from Gifts and Secrets: Poems of the Therapeutic Relationship Liz Zelvin is a psychotherapist who sees clients online at her website at www.LZcybershrink.com. The site also features her poetry and music.
ICFA CONVENTION: DEBATERS SHARPEN PRENEED RHETORIC
RESTON, VA (December 11, 2001) &endash; As the International Cemetery and
Funeral Association Convention & Exposition (April 24-27, 2002) nears,
the rivals in The Great Debate wield their sharply opposing messages on
preneed like cold steel -- and the first sparks have already begun to
fly.
On April 26 at 8:30 a.m. at the Renaissance Orlando Resort in Orlando,
Florida, the ICFA Convention will present The Great Debate: The Pros and
Cons of Prearrangement, pitting ICFA Secretary Paul Elvig against well
known funeral director and author Thomas Lynch. Each brings formidable
oratorical weapons to the stage, and each has strong opinions on the
topic of prearrangement sales.
Previewing his stance on the "cons" side of the debate, Lynch states: "I
am unopposed to prearrangement É it's been around since the pyraminds.
Nor am I opposed to prefunding. Since folks stuffed money into
mattresses, putting something aside against eventual costs has always
been sensible. But the junk-mailed, telemarketed, bargain-in-a-briefcase
brand of mortuary sales has not been good for the funeral, the funeral
consumer or the funeral director."
Preneed sales and serving families don't mix, according to Lynch. "The
one who calls in the middle of your dinner with the sales pitch is a
telemarketer," he said. "The one you call in the middle of the night,
when someone you love has died, that's your funeral director. There is a
difference."
Elvig sees things very differently. "Preneed is much more than just
writing on an envelope who you want as a casket bearer and what song you
want sung at your funeral," Elvig said. "Preneed to me is making a lot
of decisions and setting aside the funds to back up those decisions. I
suspect from what my opponent has written and what my opponent has said
publicly, he has real problems with that, and so I anticipate we're
going to discuss the wisdom of prefunding, the value of it and the ethic
of selling it. These are issues I want to discuss further with Mr.
Lynch, and I'm looking forward to hearing him justify some of what I
view as outlandish statements."
Audience members should be prepared to have their own biases tested,
Elvig said. "This will give the attendee an opportunity to sharpen and
hone their own views based on hearing two other individuals go at it on
stage," he said. "You make knives sharp by rubbing them together, and I
fully expect that when Mr. Lynch and I rub the knives of thought
together, sparks will fly."
For more information on the Debate or the ICFA Convention & Exposition,
call 1-800-645-7700 or visit the "Educational Opportunities" section of
the ICFA Web site at www.icfa.org.
Founded in 1887, the ICFA is the only international trade association
representing all segments of the cemetery, funeral and memorialization
industry. Its membership is comprised of more than 6,000 cemeteries,
funeral homes, memorial designers, crematories and related businesses
worldwide.
RESTON, VA (December 11, 2001) &endash; The International Cemetery and Funeral
Association's Women's Forum has expanded its scholarship program for
cemetery and funeral home owners, operators and employees interested in
attending ICFA University. For the last two years, the Women's Forum has
offered one scholarship. This year, it will offer two or more.
The $1,500 scholarships will cover the registration and administrative
fees for ICFA University, July 19-24, 2002, at the University of Memphis
in Memphis, Tennessee. The purpose of the scholarships is to encourage
attendance at the intensive five-day program for individuals who may not
otherwise attend, according to Del Doleman, chair of the Women's Forum
and chief executive officer of American Cemetery Supplies Inc. in
Portsmouth, Virginia.
"I've been in the industry for over 35 years as a monument retailer and
cemetery supplier, and I know how important this type of education can
be," Doleman said. "Something as informative as the ICFA University is a
great opportunity. All of our sponsors think it's beneficial to give out
these scholarships to worthy people."
The scholarships are open to all ICFA members who have been employed in
the cemetery, funeral service and memorialization industry for at least
two years. They are sponsored by eight industry suppliers: American
Cemetery Supplies Inc., BLP Bronze International, Crematory
Manufacturing & Service, Ferno Washington Inc., Granit-Bronz Inc.,
Matthews International, Trigard/Greenwood Plastics and Wilbert Funeral
Services Inc.
ICFA University classes are taught by leading industry professionals as
well as business and economics faculty at the University of Memphis.
Students spend a week in one of seven academic programs:
o College of Funeral and Commemorative Services
o J. Asher Neel College of Sales and Marketing
o College of Administration and Management
o College of Land Management and Grounds Operations
o Executive Management Symposium
o Master's Program
o CEO Program
For more information on the ICFAU and the scholarships, call
1-800-645-7700 or visit the "Educational Opportunities" section of the
ICFA Web site at www.icfa.org.
Founded in 1887, the ICFA is the only international trade association
representing all segments of the cemetery, funeral and memorialization
industry. Its membership is comprised of more than 6,000 cemeteries,
funeral homes, memorial designers, crematories and related businesses
worldwide.
In a message dated 12/5/01 3:55:28 PM, CHeaton@ogr.org writes:
OGR FORGES NEW TERRITORY IN FUNERAL SERVICE EDUCATION AT 2002 ANNUAL CONFERENCE IN SAN ANTONIO
Speakers Include Alan Wolfelt, Jim Zinger and Peter Alsop
ST. LOUIS-Dec. 3, 2001- The International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR)
will forge new territory in funeral service education when it presents its
43rd Annual Conference, "Blazing Trails to New Frontiers," at the Hyatt
Regency San Antonio on the River Walk, March 6-9, 2002.
"The 2002 program has been designed to meet specific needs and concerns of
OGR members," says Mark B. Allen, OGR director of education. "By focusing on
the unique opportunities members have as independent funeral professionals,
attendees will learn ways to forge ahead of the competition by discovering
new means of delivering products and services most valued by families. It is
an outstanding program and one intended to benefit owners, managers and
staff at large as well as smaller-volume firms." (See attached schedule.)
The lineup of general session speakers includes the energetic Jim Zinger,
grief expert Alan D. Wolfelt, Ph.D. (back by popular demand) and
educator/humorist Peter Alsop, Ph.D. The schedule also offers nine
concurrent sessions and the popular members-only volume breakouts and
roundtable sessions. This year, OGR will introduce "Ask the Board," a
members-only breakout session where members can pose questions to board
members or offer suggestions for the future. Registrants will be eligible to
earn up to 16.0 CEUs.
"We are in a relationship-building business," notes Dennis D. Soderstrum,
OGR board president. "So it's not surprising, especially given this
unprecedented time in our history, that the relationships we develop with
each other become more meaningful than ever. OGR offers members this annual
occasion to tighten the bonds of fellowship in an atmosphere of camaraderie
and community. I encourage every funeral professional to take this
opportunity to nurture his or her growth as a community leader, as a
business person and as a friend in funeral service by attending this
conference."
In addition to the educational program, OGR is expecting a large turnout for
its second annual Supplier Showcase, where attendees can canvass many of the
products and services available through OGR's Group Purchasing Program and
meet personally with Preferred Supplier representatives.
(more)
2002 OGR Annual Conference - add one
Social events and networking opportunities, such as the time-honored Welcome
Reception and Annual Banquet & Installation of Officers, add more value to
the program. Attendees may participate in a number of optional tours and
activities, such as the Thursday evening "Rodeo Roundup" theme party at the
Far West Rodeo, complete with Texas barbeque, Western dancing, Billiards and
a live Texas rodeo.
For questions about the educational program, contact Mark Allen, director of
education, or email mallen@ogr.org. Contact Kathryn Thomas at (630)
236-0522, or email kthomas@ogr.org, about the Supplier Showcase.
To register, contact Nicole Ziegler, meetings assistant, at (800) 637-8030
or email nziegler@ogr.org. Full details on the conference, optional tours
and online registration also are available on the OGR web site, www.ogr.org.
A $100 discount will apply for registrations received at OGR by Jan. 15,
2002.
OGR is one of the world's largest professional associations of independent
funeral homes whose members are dedicated to offering reliability, fair
pricing, and dignified, caring service to families. "Service measured not by
gold, but by the Golden Rule" has been the credo of the association since
its founding in 1928.
(more)
2002 OGR ANNUAL CONFERENCE
SCHEDULE IN BRIEF
Wednesday, March 6, 2002
9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Board of Directors Meeting
Noon-5:30 p.m.
Registration
5:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
Welcome Reception
Thursday, March 7, 2002
7:00 a.m.-8:00 a.m.
Continental Breakfast
First-time/New Member Attendee
Breakfast
8:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m.
Opening Session: President's Address;
Awards Ceremony; Memorial Service
9:00 a.m.-9:15 a.m.
Break
9:15 a.m.-10:30 a.m.
Keynote Address: "Ready, Set, Go!"
Jim Zinger
10:30 a.m.-10:45 a.m.
Break
10:45 a.m.-Noon
Concurrent Sessions: "Succeed Without
Stress," Jim Zinger; "Capital Leasing:
An Affordable Alternative to
Purchasing," Dan McConnell; "Get
Your Funny Bone Off the Table:
Business Etiquette," Blackie Scott
Noon-1:00 p.m.
Luncheon
1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.
Supplier Showcase
3:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
Volume Breakouts (members only) (Less than 175 cases; 175+ cases)
6:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.
"Rodeo Roundup" at Far West Rodeo
(optional)
Friday, March 8, 2002
8:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m.
Continental Breakfast
Regional Chair Breakfast
9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m.
General Session: "And We Wonder Why People
Question the Need for Funerals: Creating a
Proactive Response," Alan D. Wolfelt, Ph.D.
10:30 a.m.-10:45 a.m.
Break
10:45 a.m.-Noon
Concurrent Sessions: "Helping Children
Understand Funerals," Karen E. Nilsen, R.N.;
"Electronic Death Certificates," Randall L. Earl;
"AARP Grief and Loss: Resources for Funeral
Directors," speaker to be announced
Noon-1:15 p.m.
Luncheon/Presentation: "From Ground Zero"
Committee Luncheon
1:15 p.m.-3:15 p.m.
Supplier Showcase
1:45 p.m.-3:15 p.m.
Roundtable Discussion (Canadian members)
3:15 p.m.-4:45 p.m.
Roundtable Discussions (members only) (Young
Professionals; Ask the Board)
Saturday, March 9, 2002
8:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m.
Continental Breakfast
Regional Chair Breakfast
9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m.
Concurrent Sessions: "Creating Web Sites With
Muscle for Your Funeral Home," Jeff King;
"Competing for Talent: Recruiting and
Retention Strategies," Nancy S. Alrichs; "The
Evolution of Cremation: Are You Keeping
Pace?" Michael W. Kubasak
10:30 a.m.-10:45 a.m.
Break
10:45 a.m.-Noon
Closing General Session: "Making Safe Places," Peter Alsop, Ph.D.
6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
President's Reception
7:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m.
Annual Banquet & Installation
* schedule subject to change
4. MEMBER NEWS: * Does NFDA Have Your E-mail Address and Fax Number? From America Online's Keyword Funeral Director / Mortician one member was grumbling about all the junk faxes s/he gets each morning, it was suggested that NFDA had sold member's fax numbers, I did not think NFDA was handing out fax numbers so I called NFDA and I was told yes NFDA does sell members fax numbers and other data base info, stating it is a common practice with associations, so I called ICFA and asked them what member information is for sale, ICFA does not sell member info, however ICFA did emphasize certain contact info is given pre convention to convention exhibitors. I did ask NFDA what other data base info is sold and my contact did not know but could find out specifics if I was that interested, I declined, NFDA did say members who don't want their data base info shared should call the associations and tell them you don't want your information given out.
BOTTOM LINE I stand corrected, NFDA DOES SELL MEMBER INFO.
In a message dated 12/4/01 2:25:29 PM, comments@kates-boylston.com writes:
American Funeral Director is currently compiling its January 2002 Review and Outlook issue. We are interested in hearing from you about the year you had and what you feel lies ahead. Please take a few moments to answer the survey below (results will appear in the January 2002 edition). Please fax to 732-767-9741 or e-mail to comments@kates-boylston.com. Your participation is greatly appreciated.Sincerely, Ed Defort Travis Cunningham AFD editors
November 30, 2001
Dear Coalition Member:
The Music License Coalition is off to a fantastic start! In less than
two months and with minimal promotion, we have 2,007 members. We've
obviously struck a chord within the industry by offering an opportunity
for everyone to get a better deal on music licensing with no membership
fees or steep markups.
Unfortunately, as you know, we have to have 5,000 members to qualify for
the discount price of $185, so we have to wait until next year to offer
a group discount on licensing. But we are well on the way to reaching
that goal for the year beginning January 1, 2003. We will keep you
informed of the Coalition's progress through the course of the ongoing
promotional campaign.
Memberships for the Coalition are streaming in &endash; sometimes a few a day,
sometimes hundreds. That's pretty remarkable, considering the limited
time we've had to publicize the Coalition and the fact that the
industry's largest funeral home trade association took it upon
themselves to circulate false information about the Coalition earlier
this month. (Actually, we may owe them a debt of gratitude for putting
our name in front of a lot of people who had never heard of the
program).
We especially want to acknowledge that a large part of the Coalition's
success is due to the outstanding leadership of the many other industry
organizations that have helped spread the word, including Selected
Independent Funeral Homes, National Funeral Directors and Morticians
Association, Order of the Golden Rule, Independent Funeral Directors of
Florida and Washington Cemetery and Funeral Association.
So what's next? We're going to keep the ball rolling. We'll work through
the press, direct mailing, personal contacts and every other means
necessary to make sure every funeral home in the U.S. knows about our
$185 offer. As a Coalition member, you can also help spread the word.
Tell your fellow funeral directors to join today so that together we can
begin receiving the discount in 2003!
In order to obtain licensing for 2002 on your own, if you belong to an
association that is a member of the Funeral Directors Association
Coalition (FDAC), you can get licensing for ASCAP and BMI at a discount
rate &endash; contact your association headquarters to inquire about this.
Also, you can call the three licensing agencies at the numbers listed
below. You may find that next to the Music License Coalition and FDAC,
obtaining licensing directly from the three agencies is your least
expensive option. You can reach them at these numbers:
ASCAP &endash; 800-505-4052
BMI &endash; 877-264-2137 (ask for Robin Whicker)
SESAC &endash; 800-826-9996 (ask for "funeral firm license")
Please feel free to call me if you would like additional information.
Thank you for your membership and support. We wish you a joyous holiday
season and a very happy New Year!
Sincerely,
Joseph W. Budzinski
Music License Coalition Administrator
ICFA Internal Chief Operating Officer
MORE
MORE THAN 2,000 FUNERAL HOMES FORM MUSIC LICENSE COALITION
RESTON, VA (December 11, 2001) &endash; The Music License Coalition, a
dues-free group formed to obtain discounted music licensing for funeral
homes, combination operations and other industry companies, has reached
a membership of 2,021 locations within its first two months of
existence.
According to Coalition Administrator Joseph W. Budzinski, the rapid
growth of the organization is evidence of a widespread need within the
industry. "We've obviously struck a chord by offering an opportunity for
everyone to get a better deal on music licensing with no membership fees
or steep markups," Budzinski said. "And memberships continue streaming
in &endash; sometimes a few a day, sometimes hundreds. That's pretty
remarkable, considering the limited time we've had to publicize the
Coalition."
Because the Coalition needs 5,000 members to qualify for a combined
discount price of $185 annually from the licensing agencies &endash; BMI, ASCAP
and SESAC &endash; it will continue promotional and membership enrollment
efforts through 2002 in order to reach its goal in time to offer
discounted licensing for the year beginning January 1, 2003. Firms that
wish to join the Music License Coalition can call 1-800-645-7700; there
is no fee and it takes less than a minute to join.
The Coalition is made up of funeral homes and combination operations
from throughout the United States. Many of its members have joined as a
result of promotional efforts conducted by various industry
organizations, including the International Cemetery and Funeral
Association (ICFA), Selected Independent Funeral Homes, the National
Funeral Directors and Morticians Association, Order of the Golden Rule,
Independent Funeral Directors of Florida and the Washington Cemetery and
Funeral Association.
The Coalition was spearheaded in October 2001 by the ICFA in response to
industry demand for an alternative to either paying high prices for a
music license or having to pay dues to a trade association to qualify
for a reasonably priced license. Its goal is to allow industry companies
to join together across trade association boundaries and obtain the
discounted licensing without paying additional dues.
Licensing is required for all firms that host services where copyrighted
music is performed or played from recordings. Small businesses that have
been found to be unlicensed have been fined $20,000 for a single
infraction.
For more information on the Music License Coalition or to join, call
1-800-645-7700 or visit the Coalition Web site at www.icfa.org/music/.
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
NCFDA E-LINE ¥ NOVEMBER 30, 2001
SHIPMENT OF HUMAN REMAINS VIA AIR
Following information provided by the National Funeral Directors Association:
Since the tragic events of September 11, NFDA has received numerous calls from members asking what, if any, are the new FAA security rules relative to shipping human remains by air. This memorandum will attempt to clarify the situation as best we can determine:
1. Air Service to Smaller Communities. Since September 11, many smaller communities have experienced a reduction or even the discontinuation of freight shipments, including human remains, by the major airlines. According to the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) and the Air Transport Association (ATA), this change is due entirely to the economic/financial reasons not a direct result of the events of September 11. While September 11 may have exacerbated the situation, it did not cause it. There is very little or anything the FAA or Congress can do to require airlines to service smaller communities or dictate the type of equipment they should use. However, the NFDA is pursuing alternative options with the Air Cargo Association and others. Meetings with both FedEx and UPS revealed that both have strict policies against the shipment of human remains.
2. New FAA Security Regulations. Since the September 11 attacks, the FAA has issued confidential regulations to all airlines, foreign and domestic, that outline new procedures for shipping cargo. These new regulations require shippers of cargo to become qualified as a known shipper with each airline they use. One major exception to the known shipper rules is the shipment of human remains. According to the FAA, the ATA and the AAAE, all airlines readily accept human remains for shipment. However, certain new security requirements may be adopted. Those are the production of a picture identifications by the funeral director or his/her employee shipping or receiving a body and written verification that the person is an employee of a legitimate funeral home. It may even involve a call to the funeral home by the airline. Finally, a funeral home may be cross-checked against a list from the yellow, red or blue books. If the funeral home is not listed, the airline may send personnel to the funeral home to verify that it is in fact a legitimate establishment before the remains are released for shipment. Finally, the casketed remains or shipping container containing the remains will be subject to inspection and search. When asked for a copy of these new regulations, NFDA was advised that they are classified and unavailable to the public.
NFDA will stay in close contact with the FAA, the airlines, the airport executives and others for any changes to these policies.
DISTRICT 6 & 8 CHRISTMAS PARTY REMINDER
Monday, Deember 3, at the Painted Plate Banquet Hall, 2001 North Church Street, Greensboro with a social at 6:00 PM, dinner at 7:30 PM, Door Prizes at 8:30 PM and Dancing at 9:00 PM. $25.00 Per Person. Contact either Mike Moye at 336-275-8408 or Dorman Caudle at 336-765-8181. Contributions of door prizes will be greatly appreciated.
KENANSVILLE PROGRAM (DECEMBER 4) CANCELLED
The December 4 program "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 has been CANCELLED due to lack of pre-registrations.
NCFDA CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Dec 3 NCFDA Districts 6 & 8 Christmas Party at the Painted Plate Banquet Hall, 2001 North Church Street, Greensboro with a social at 6:00 PM, dinner at 7:30 PM, Door Prizes at 8:30 PM and Dancing at 9:00 PM. $25.00 Per Person. Contact either Mike Moye at 336-275-8408 or Dorman Caudle at 336-765-8181. Contributions of door prizes will be great appreciated.
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 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 6 The NC Eye Bank, Inc. Open House celebrating their 50th Anniversary their offices located at 3900 West Point Blvd., Suite F, Winston-Salem from 4:00 &endash; 7:00 PM.
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 "Continuing Education Seminar" (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 on "D-Mort Operations in New York City" 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, 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. (2.0 c.e.c.)
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.)
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
*************************************************************************
ICFA WIRELESS - December 11, 2001 Edition Vol. 2 No. 30
*************************************************************************
ICFA WIRELESS is a biweekly electronic newsletter bringing members of the
International Cemetery and Funeral Association the latest government and
legal, industry and association news. It is available to all ICFA members
current on their dues. Comments, questions and "hot news tips" are welcome.
Write to: mailto:wireless@icfa.org.
* * * * * * * *
SPECIAL NOTICE
There will be no December 25 edition of the ICFA WIRELESS. WIRELESS will
resume with the January 8, 2002 edition. Also, please note that the ICFA
offices will be closed December 24-28 and January 1; because of the extremely
low number of calls received during Christmas week, we elected to close the
office during that time and eliminated several holidays from other times
during the year. Staff will, however, monitor the general voice mailbox
during that week for emergency requests.
The ICFA staff wish you a joyful holiday season and a safe and happy New
Year. To view our holiday message, please visit
http://www.icfa.org/staff_holiday.htm.
* * * * * * * *
IN THIS EDITION:
INDUSTRY NEWS
Lawsuit Claims PA Funeral Board's Regulations Are Unconstitutional
IRS Increases Amounts Subject to 'Qualified Funeral Trust' Treatment
FTC Regulatory Agenda Anticipates Funeral Rule Report in Spring 2002
More Than 2,000 Funeral Homes Form Music License Coalition
ICFA NEWS
Naked Sales IV Hotel Reservation, Early Registration Deadlines Extended
ICFA Seeks Nominees for Board of Directors
ICFA 'Keeping It Personal' Awards Deadline Approaches
December Product of the Month: Family Portfolio Record File
---------------------------
INDUSTRY NEWS
---------------------------
LAWSUIT CLAIMS PA FUNERAL BOARD'S REGS ARE UNCONSTITUTIONAL
Four individuals and one funeral home have joined as plaintiffs in suing
members of the Pennsylvania State Board of Funeral Directors in federal
district court, alleging that board members have violated plaintiffs'
constitutional right of free speech. According to the complaint, "Plaintiffs
claim that by prohibiting anyone who is not licensed as a funeral director
from providing information to others regarding funeral services and
merchandise, Defendants, members of the State Board...and, in most cases,
direct competitors of Plaintiffs, have violated Plaintiffs' right to freedom
of speech under the First Amendment."
The complaint also alleges that Plaintiffs' freedom of speech was violated by
the Defendants' "limiting the right of licensed funeral directors to share
accurate information about the funeral services and merchandise they
provide." The litigation seeks injunctive relief to end these restrictions.
An earlier lawsuit in state court seeking to overturn the funeral board's
imposition of fines against a funeral
director for working with an insurance agent was decided in the board's
favor. Significant developments of this new litigation will be reported as
they occur.
---------------------------------------------------
IRS INCREASES AMOUNTS SUBJECT TO 'QUALIFIED FUNERAL TRUST' TREATMENT
Each year, the Internal Revenue Service is required to adjust for inflation
various dollar amounts used to calculate taxable income. A relatively new
section of the IRS Code, section 685, allows trustees of certain preneed
funeral trusts, called "Qualified Funeral Trusts," to pay any federal income
tax, in lieu of the purchaser, for earnings on amounts deposited into the
funeral trusts by purchasers. Enacted with industry support in 1997, the law
provides that amounts deposited into trust per preneed contract beneficiary
were limited to $7,000 but such levels would be inflation adjusted annually.
The IRS has determined that for contracts entered into during calendar year
2002, the maximum dollar amount for qualified funeral trust treatment per
individual beneficiary may not exceed $7,700. Efforts have been made to amend
the law by raising the dollar cap or eliminating the cap altogether. However,
some lawmakers fear that funeral trusts may be used as an abusive tax shelter
if there is no dollar limit, a view disputed by the industry.
---------------------------------------------------
FTC REGULATORY AGENDA ANTICIPATES FUNERAL RULE REPORT IN SPRING 2002
On December 3, the Federal Trade Commission published its semi-annual
regulatory agenda as required by law. The agenda is helpful in determining
the status of ongoing projects in the various federal agencies, although the
stated deadlines are usually not strictly adhered to. With reference to the
Funeral Rule review, which has been publicly inactive since November 1999,
the FTC agenda indicates that its staff is reviewing public comments and
preparing a recommendation to the Commission. The timetable anticipates that
the staff report will be submitted to the Commission in February 2002, and
the Commission will vote on the report by May.
Timetables are required by law, so many of the dates given are merely
"guesstimates" of possible action. In the past, FTC semi-annual agendas have
indicated that publication of the Funeral Rule staff report was a few months
away. Recent discussion by ICFA with Funeral Rule staff indicate that no firm
timetable for moving forward with the review has been determined.
---------------------------------------------------
MORE THAN 2,000 FUNERAL HOMES FORM MUSIC LICENSE COALITION
The Music License Coalition, a dues-free group spearheaded by the ICFA to
obtain discounted music licensing for industry members, has reached a
membership of 2,021 locations within its first two months of existence, and
memberships continue to stream in. The Coalition has received promotional
support from numerous industry groups, including Selected Independent Funeral
Homes, the National Funeral Directors and Morticians Association, Order of
the Golden Rule, Independent Funeral Directors of Florida and the Washington
Cemetery & Funeral Association.
Because the Coalition needs 5,000 members to qualify for a combined discount
price of $185 annually from BMI, ASCAP and SESAC, it will continue its
promotional and membership enrollment efforts through 2002 to reach its goal
in time to offer discounted licensing for the year beginning January 1, 2003.
Membership in the Coalition is free and is not tied to membership in any
other industry organization. For more information or to join the Coalition,
call 1-800-645-7700 or visit http://www.icfa.org/music/.
-------------------
ICFA NEWS
-------------------
NAKED SALES IV HOTEL RESERVATION, EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINES EXTENDED
Caesars Palace has extended the deadline for hotel reservations for the
ICFA's Naked Sales IV Conference to December 17. Reservations made after that
date will be accepted on a space available basis. In addition, in recognition
of the fact that some attendees may need additional time to make travel plans
for this year's Conference, the ICFA is extending the Early Member
Registration discount to January 17.
Naked Sales IV is being held January 17-18 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas,
Nevada. The Early Member Registration discount allows members to receive two
full days of education for just $350; companies who send more than one
employee are eligible for additional savings. For a complete program and
registration materials, visit http://www.icfa.org/nakedsales02.htm.
---------------------------------------------------
ICFA SEEKS NOMINEES FOR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The ICFA Nominating Committee invites all regular members in good standing to
consider submitting an application to run for election to the ICFA Board of
Directors. Each year, the membership elects eight members to serve three-year
terms on the board. Candidate applications are reviewed by the Nominating
Committee to ensure a wide range of representation from various industry
segments. Voting takes place at the annual meeting of the members, which will
be held on April 25, 2002, in conjunction with the ICFA Annual Convention &
Exposition in Orlando, Florida. The deadline for applications is February 1.
For more information, call 1-800-645-7700.
---------------------------------------------------
ICFA 'KEEPING IT PERSONAL' AWARDS DEADLINE APPROACHES
The ICFA KIP (Keeping It Personal) Awards recognize the best in
personalization in the cemetery and funeral services industry. All ICFA
members are eligible to attend, including cemeteries, funeral homes, memorial
designers, suppliers and related businesses.
The awards are designed to promote personalization of services and products
within the industry. Winners will be honored at the ICFA Annual Convention in
Orlando, Florida, April 24-27, 2002. In addition, all entrants will receive a
certificate of achievement and be recognized in International Cemetery &
Funeral Management magazine.
The deadline for entry is January 15, 2002. For additional information and an
entry form, visit http://www.icfa.org/kip.htm.
---------------------------------------------------
DECEMBER PRODUCT OF THE MONTH: FAMILY PORTFOLIO RECORD FILE
For the month of December, the ICFA is reducing prices on its Family
Portfolio Record File and Presentation Binder. Forerunner to the Emergency
Record Guide, the Family Portfolio is a 16-page booklet with forms for
recording all important memorialization information in one convenient
location. The Presentation Binder is an inexpensive vinyl binder designed
specifically for presenting the portfolio.
The Family Portfolio Record File is available in both English and Spanish.
Regular Price: $65 per set of 100; December Price: $35 per set! For the month
of December, we will include a FREE Presentation Binder with each order for
the Family Portfolio Record File! Regular Price: $5 per binder; December
Price: One FREE binder per order! Prices are in effect December 1-31, 2001.
The ICFA offices will be closed December 24-28, so get your order in early!
For more information, visit http://www.icfa.org/Dec.htm. To order, call
1-800-645-7700, ext. 216.
---------------------------------------------------
AND MORE É
Industry members who pre-register for the ICFA's 2002 Convention &
Exposition, April 24-27 at the Orlando Renaissance Resort in Orlando,
Florida, will receive up to $65 off the already reduced Early Registration
rates. The Convention offers three days of "no-fluff" educational
programming, exhibits and networking. To view the complete program and to
take advantage of the Pre-Registration offer (deadline: January 7), call the
ICFA at 1-800-645-7700 or visit http://www.icfa.org/AC02.htm.
The recently created ICFA Idea Network on the association's Web site provides
a forum for cemeterians, funeral directors, suppliers and others to share
ideas and discussion on all areas of operations. Currently, the page includes
messages regarding preneed marketing, perpetual care policies and the
industry's response to the September 11 attack on America. To access the
page, visit http://www.icfa.org/ideanetwork.htm.
The ICFA News Page offers a timely collection of interesting and useful news
items related to the cemetery and funeral industry, small business and
current events. Located at http://www.icfa.org/newspage.htm, the News Page
compiles articles from around the world and is updated regularly.
The ICFA has published its 2001-2002 Buyer's Guide and Membership Directory.
Members who are current on their dues should have received their copies in
November. The directory is an invaluable industry resource, offering complete
listings of ICFA member cemeteries, funeral homes and allied members;
industry suppliers; international, national, regional and state associations;
state funeral boards and cemetery regulators; individuals working in the
industry; and more. A must for all key staff, additional copies of the
directory are available for purchase at a member price of just $25. For
information or to order, call the ICFA at 1-800-645-7700.
Since April 2000, the ICFA has waged an ongoing media campaign to educate
consumers about the value of remembrance, memorialization and preplanning for
cemetery and funeral expenses. For more information and to view copies of the
news releases, visit http://www.icfa.org/media.htm.
Need a labor relations and employment law attorney? Check out ICFA's benefit
program offering free telephone legal consultations at
http://www.icfa.org/pepperman.htm.
ICFA members can establish their own Web sites for just $14.95 per month,
with no up-front fees. FuneralAssistant.com provides complete Web site
design, up to six pages; monthly site hosting; assignment of a Keyword that
directs Internet customers to the site; and Web site updates. For more
information, visit http://www.icfa.org/WebBenefit.htm.
In a message dated 11/28/01 1:39:43 PM, DennisCMcGeeJr writes:
What About Embalming?
Each month, within the industry's trade journals, funeral service practitioners author articles, from different angles, on how to assist our client families in creating meaningful funeral experiences for themselves and their families. Although we all were licensed so that we can embalm it is the most overlooked aspect of our profession. we attend mortuary schools across the country, test to receive our licenses and maintain them by making the commitment to continue to develop our education so that we can embalm. The very first building block in staging funeral experiences, before customizing caskets, assembling memorial boards or offering our families video tributes, is the most important and basic step, embalming! This practice is exclusive to our profession and by far the most important element in the funeral experience. Our mission, as funeral service practitioners and experience arrangers, is to assist our families in selecting a funeral that is right for them and their family as well as providing them a memorable and natural appearance of their loved one who has died.
Month after month our trade journals are jam packed with articles that either fall under one of two categories "how to create the perfect funeral experience" or articles that I like to call, "Funeral Service Cheerleaders." I thank all of those authors who put their feelings and opinions into words and share it with our professional community. That is the only way we can learn, from each other's experiences, good or bad. However, what about embalming? Since the civil war Embalming has changed very little. We as embalmers understand that embalming is achieved through arterial injection of embalming fluid by means of centrifugal force pump and drainage via the venous system, but we also understand that if you put gas in a car it'll drive too.
To really create a truly meaningful funeral experience for our client families our industry's embalmers must ethically and comprehensively approach every case. To begin with, embalming/case reports are the very foundation of a thorough embalming. It enables the embalmer to take a few minutes, review the case before them, and think about what procedures will be necessary to treat existing conditions and effectively embalm the case. the embalmer should at all times maintain the decedent's decency and cover the appropriate areas (i.e., genitalia). Although no one operates in the preparation room other than licensed embalmers and/or apprentices we are professionals and should operate in exactly that manner. Positioning the remains and posing features, in my opinion, should be done prior to arterial injection so when injection begins it will fixate the position and features assuring that, when casketed, the deceased will look natural and comfortable. When arterial injection begins, again the embalmer should rely on their comprehensive case analysis to first, use a correct type of fluid (i.e., humectants), set fluid solutions at appropriate index levels and employ the necessary amount of pressure and rate of flow. Following arterial injection the remains should be aspirated thoroughly using the fan and layer technique. This will help remove excess fluid from arterial injection within the cavities and penetrate the tissues more effectively within the thoracic, abdominal and abdominopelvic cavities. When injecting cavity fluid the embalmer should inject 16oz. or one bottle above the diaphragm and one below. At the conclusion of the cavity injection the remains should be washed thoroughly with a disinfectant soap including anterior nares (nostrils) and beneath the fingernails. Finally, cover the remains with a sheet and apply massage cream to help resist the decedent from dehydrating
although most of these steps seem elementary to embalmers, what about embalming? We must be vigilant in ways to best preserve and restore natural and comfortable appearances. It is the most important service we can offer our client families. This is the very first building block to creating a meaningful funeral experience.
Dennis C. McGee, Jr.
Funeral Director
Sweeney Funeral Home
Riverside, NJ
*************************************************************************
ICFA WIRELESS - November 27, 2001 Edition Vol. 2 No. 29
*************************************************************************
ICFA WIRELESS is a biweekly electronic newsletter bringing members of the International Cemetery and Funeral Association the latest government and legal, industry and association news. It is available to all ICFA members current on their dues. Comments, questions and "hot news tips" are welcome. Write to: mailto:wireless@icfa.org.
IN THIS EDITION:
INDUSTRY NEWS
Cemetery Consumer Service Council Releases New Survey Data
FTC Seeks Comments on Funeral Rule Compliance Burdens
ICFA NEWS
ICFA Idea Network Offers Forum for Industry Discussions
December Product of the Month: Family Portfolio Record File
---------------------------
INDUSTRY NEWS
---------------------------
CEMETERY CONSUMER SERVICE COUNCIL RELEASES NEW SURVEY DATA
The industry-sponsored Cemetery Consumer Service Council (CCSC) has published the results of its activity survey for the year 2000. The report found that a total of 82 complaints and inquiries were processed during the year. Of that number, 76 were resolved. Nine complaints and inquiries were pending at the beginning of the year, while another six remained at year's end. Among the types of complaints and inquiries received, 31 dealt with improper maintenance, 16 with questionable sales practices, four with truth-in-lending matters and other contractual issues, 15 with cemetery rules and regulations and another 11 with a variety of other issues including simple inquiries into cemetery practices.
The CCSC is now in its 22nd year of operation and is sponsored by the ICFA, the Cremation Association of North America, the Central States Cemetery Association and the Southern Cemetery Association. The ICFA also acts as administrator of the program. Thirty-nine state associations participate in the dispute resolution procedure, which is provided without charge. For more information, visit http://www.icfa.org/ccscsurvey00.htm.
---------------------------------------------------
FTC SEEKS COMMENTS ON FUNERAL RULE COMPLIANCE BURDENS
The Federal Trade Commission has announced a public comment period concerning its information collection activities on the burdens of complying with the Funeral Rule. Mandated by the Paperwork Reduction Act, the Commission is seeking comments on the accuracy of its timeframe estimates to comply with the Funeral Rule. Among other things, the FTC staff estimates that a funeral home spends one hour per year on the recordkeeping requirements of the Rule, another two hours per year to maintain current price lists, and about three minutes per customer to record prices on a standard form. The Commission also seeks comments on whether such information has practical utility. ICFA members who would like a copy of the FTC announcement should e-mail the WIRELESS at mailto:wireless@icfa.org.
---------------------------------------------------
ICFA NEWS
-------------------
ICFA IDEA NETWORK OFFERS FORUM FOR INDUSTRY DISCUSSIONS
The recently created ICFA Idea Network on the association's Web site provides a forum for cemeterians, funeral directors, suppliers and others to share ideas and discussion on all areas of operations. Currently, the page includes messages regarding preneed marketing, perpetual care policies and the industry's response to the September 11 attack on America. To access the page, visit http://www.icfa.org/ideanetwork.htm.
---------------------------------------------------
DECEMBER PRODUCT OF THE MONTH: FAMILY PORTFOLIO RECORD FILE
For the month of December, the ICFA is reducing prices on its Family Portfolio Record File and Presentation Binder. Forerunner to the Emergency Record Guide, the Family Portfolio is a 16-page booklet with forms for recording all important memorialization information in one convenient location. The Presentation Binder is an inexpensive vinyl binder designed specifically for presenting the portfolio.
The Family Portfolio Record File is available in both English and Spanish. Regular Price: $65 per set of 100; December Price: $35 per set! For the month of December, we will include a FREE Presentation Binder with each order for the Family Portfolio Record File! Regular Price: $5 per binder; December Price: One FREE binder per order! Prices are in effect December 1-31, 2001.
For more information, visit http://www.icfa.org/Dec.htm. To order, call 1-800-645-7700, ext. 216.
-------------------------------------------------
AND MORE ...
The ICFA has announced the formation of a Music License Coalition to provide music licenses for $185 annually per location. No trade association membership is required to join the Coalition and obtain the discount. Industry members interested in learning more can call the Music License Coalition at 1-800-645-7700 or visit http://www.icfa.org/music/.
Naked Sales IV: International Cemetery and Funeral Sales Management and Marketing Conference, January 17-18, 2002, at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada, will cover topics such as affinity marketing, demographics research, family service, hiring dos and don'ts, setting sales team expectations, measuring performance and "motivation on a shoestring." Attendees will receive a valuable binder filled with useful handouts and ancillary information to take back to their locations. For a complete program and registration materials, visit http://www.icfa.org/nakedsales02.htm.
Industry members who pre-register for the ICFA's 2002 Convention & Exposition, April 24-27 at the Orlando Renaissance Resort in Orlando, Florida, will receive up to $65 off the already reduced Early Registration rates. The Convention offers three days of "no-fluff" educational programming, exhibits and networking. To view the complete program and to take advantage of the Pre-Registration offer (deadline: January 7), call the ICFA at 1-800-645-7700 or visit http://www.icfa.org/AC02.htm.
The ICFA has published its 2001-2002 Buyer's Guide and Membership Directory. Members who are current on their dues should have received their copies and are encouraged to check their listings for accuracy. If your entries are incorrect or incomplete, please fill out the card accompanying your directory and return it to the ICFA. Members also may use the card to order additional directories. For information or an order form, call the ICFA at 1-800-645-7700.
The ICFA News Page offers a timely collection of interesting and useful news items related to the cemetery and funeral industry, small business and current events. Located at http://www.icfa.org/newspage.htm, the News Page compiles articles from around the world and is updated regularly.
The ICFA KIP (Keeping It Personal) Awards recognize the best in personalization in the cemetery and funeral services industry. All ICFA members are eligible to attend, including cemeteries, funeral homes, monument retailers, suppliers and related businesses. The deadline for entry is January 15, 2002. For additional information and an entry form, visit http://www.icfa.org/kip.htm.
Since April 2000, the ICFA has waged an ongoing media campaign to educate consumers about the value of remembrance, memorialization and preplanning for cemetery and funeral expenses. For more information and to view copies of the news releases, visit http://www.icfa.org/media.htm.
Need a labor relations and employment law attorney? Check out ICFA's benefit program offering free telephone legal consultations at http://www.icfa.org/pepperman.htm.
ICFA members can establish their own Web sites for just $14.95 per month, with no up-front fees. FuneralAssistant.com provides complete Web site design, up to six pages; monthly site hosting; assignment of a Keyword that directs Internet customers to the site; and Web site updates. For more information, visit http://www.icfa.org/WebBenefit.htm.
In a message dated 11/27/01 2:35:44 PM, Dave in Washington State writes:
Cost of FTC rule
11/27/01
Data from: FTC notice to Office of Management and Budget re Cost of
complying with the FTC rule.
I do not normally expect much from the folks that purchase $l,000 toilet
seats and $651 hammers, but every once in a while even they astound me.
I spent an hour or more trying to decipher a very poorly written analysis of
the cost to the funeral homes of complying with the Funeral Rule. I would
recommend the report only to the most desperate of insomniacs. ZZZzzzz. I
was, at great expense to my powers of analysis, able to ascertain that the
FTC assumes:
- That the average funeral home spends only 1 hour per year keeping and
filing all the records that are necessary to comply with the rule.
- That it only takes 2 hours per year per funeral home to maintain the GPL,
Casket price lists and outer burial container list, and 5 cents per copy to
print them.
- That it only takes 1 and a half minutes to disclose the mandated prices
to a shopper
- and that only 9% of all families call about prices.
Thus, using their data, we are asked to conclude that the average funeral
home spends 2 minutes per family complying with the rule. And, assuming
that they are serving 200 families a year, their out of pocket expenses per
year are only $340.
I wonder what your readers think of those conclusions. I know that it does
not come anywhere near our reality.
Dave
In a message dated 11/27/01 7:11:21 AM, Fred in Rhode Island sends us:
Boston Funeral Director Serves as Reference to Fellow Funeral Directors Through National Association
Brookfield, Wis. -- Michael A. Flynn of the F.J. Higgins Funeral Home in Boston, MA contributes to the success of his profession and the National Funeral Directors Association ( NFDA) through his volunteer service as a member resource on the NFDA Membership Resource Team.
"Mike is energetic, enthusiastic, and talented funeral service professional. His dedication to the Member Resource Team is Valuable service to NFDA and our members," said NFDA Acting Executive Director Christine Reichelt-Pepper.
The Membership Resource Team offers their expertise to NFDA members. As a member of the Membership Resource Team, Flynn participates in member surveys, serves on focus groups for developing new products or services, writes or contributes articles to The Director, or the Special Interest Sections Newsletters, tests marketing of new programs or services, participates in the NFDA Political Action Committee fundraising campaigns and helps during recruitment and retention campaigns.
The Membership Resource Team includes 18 NFDA members. All team members are expected to attend NFDA's Annual Convention where they are recognized for their tremendous efforts.
NFDA is headquartered in Brookfield, WI, and has an office in Washington D.C. It is the oldest and largest funeral service association, serving about 13,500 members. For information about NFDA, visit www.nfda.org
In a message dated 11/26/01 10:35:13 PM, Mike in Massachusetts writes:
Manchester NH changes cremated burial policy
By MARK HAYWARD
Union Leader Staff, Published in NH Union Leader, Manchester, NH on 11/26/2001 The Union Leader & New Hampshire Sunday News - 26-Nov-01 - View Article
Loved ones will no longer be able to stack cremated remains atop a burial vault at Pine Grove Cemetery in Manchester, a popular practice used to squeeze two people into a single grave, city officials said. A policy change, approved last month by the Parks, Recreation and Cemetery Commission, goes into effect Jan. 1. People who already have purchased cemetery lots are exempt. City officials say the change is needed because cremated remains are being buried too close to the surface. But the owner of a Manchester funeral home guessed the city really wants to sell more plots. "They're obviously not selling as many graves," said Arthur Phaneuf, president of Phaneuf Funeral Homes and Crematorium. "The economic reality is with a lot fewer interments and a lot fewer graves being bought, the cemeteries are losing money." Nearly 50 percent of New Hampshire residents are cremated, one of the highest rates in the country, he said. And only 10 to 20 percent of cremated remains are buried. The rest are either scattered or stored at homes, he said. Judy Aron, senior account clerk for city cemeteries, said it's possible the policy change will result in a few more lot sales, but not many. People who are cost conscious can avoid a cemetery altogether, she noted. "A lot of people doing the cremations will just scatter the ashes," Aron said. The city of Manchester charges $800 for a full-body burial and $525 for a grave for cremated remains. On top of that, mourners are charged a fee for opening the grave: $525 for full body, $350 for cremated remains. City officials say they changed the policy because graves are more shallow nowadays. In some cases, the top of burial vaults are about two feet below the surface, Aron said. Burial boxes for cremated remains are 16 inches high. That means the remains can be less than a foot from the surface of the ground. "There's not enough room to put a cremation on the top," said Ron Johnson, deputy director of the city Parks, Recreation and Cemetery Department. The new policy allows only one full body or the cremated remains of two people in a single grave. Johnson said cremation has become popular, and the cemetery receives many requests to bury cremated remains in a grave that is already occupied. When that happens, a family is only charged the $350 grave opening fee. There are several reasons why a family would want to add cremated remains to a grave that already contains a full body, Phaneuf said. One is to keep a family together in a multiple-grave lot. In other cases, one spouse may prefer full body, the other cremation. Or, financial reasons may come into play. Phaneuf said he is indifferent to the change. Because of the exemption, few people will be affected, he said. Aron said cremations have recently outpaced full-body burials at the cemetery. About 10 to 15 percent of the 260 burials a year involved placing cremated remains into another's grave, Aron said. Officials said there are nine city-run cemeteries in Manchester, but Pine Grove is the only one selling new lots and affected by the policy. In the city of Lebanon on the west side of the state, individual cemetery plots can be used for one full burial and up to six cremation urns, according to Ken Ryder, the city's public works director. "Space is a premium in the cemetery business so we don't have to go out and buy additional properties and make additional cemeteries," Ryder said. "The city council made it this way several years ago . . . we don't want to have to spend future capital." Ryder said it's Lebanon's hope the ordinance will "hopefully slow down" the use of cemetery space. "We have nine cemeteries, that's enough," Ryder said. "Someday we'll have to add space," but fortunately not too soon, he said. Tim Griffin, superintendent of the South Cemetery in Portsmouth, said that city's philosophy concerning cemeteries is similar to Lebanon's: conserve space. "With cemetery space getting tighter and tighter, it only makes sense to try to keep these things together," Griffin said. He also said it's that city's practice to allow cremated urns to be buried along with traditional burials. "In a single grave, we allow one person and then the addition of cremated remains," he said. "To keep the family together I'm willing to be flexible." Cemetery officials in Keene act in the same way. "In one single grave, we'll put as many cremation urns as you can fit, as long as there's a full body (burial) first," said Dave Kyle, superintendent of parks and cemetery maintenance for Keene. "We look at it to be as helpful as we can to people." At one point, Kyle said, the city even allowed double-deep burials where family members could be buried full body on top of each other. But the city won't do that anymore since it puts workers in danger, Kyle said. "The holes had to be eight to nine feet deep," he said.
In a message dated 11/21/01 2:45:22 PM, jschoenecker@nfda.org writes:
For Release Upon Receipt November 2, 2001
FSEF 2001-10
FSF CHILDREN'S FUND GIVES $12,000 TO TOYS FOR TOTS
Brookfield, Wis. - October 31, 2001-At the October 10, 2001, closing session of the NFDA Annual Convention, J. Mark Busch, chairperson of the Funeral Service Foundation (FSF), presented a $12,000 check from the FSF Children's Fund to the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots. This donation was made possible through gifts from funeral service practitioners and allied professionals throughout the United States.
The Children's Fund, a new Foundation initiative, debuted in September 2001. The benefactor this year was Toys for Tots. The campaign began via e-mail and continued on a person-to-person basis at the NFDA convention in Orlando. In all, the effort raised more than $12,000 with approximately $7,000 generated through the e-mail campaign.
"This extraordinary gift will bring smiles to a lot of kids faces this Christmas," remarked First Sergeant Perry of the U.S. Marine Corps. "It is genuinely appreciated."
-more-
The Children's Fund represents the first effort following the Foundation's recent shift from education to philanthropy. Each year, gifts to the FSF Children's Fund will be used to make a difference in children's lives.
The Funeral Service Foundation, located in Brookfield, Wisconsin, is the positive and unifying voice representing the compassion, generosity, and care of the funeral profession.
For More Information, Contact:
Connie Smith 877-402-5900
In a message dated 11/20/01 4:16:01 PM, Chris@theoutlookgroup.com writes:
ADVERTISING Keeping Costs In Line With Results
Written by:
Chris Kuhnen
Vice President, Marketing
The Outlook Group, Inc.
The old adage goes, "advertising doesn't cost, it pays." This is easy for
the account executive attempting to sell you the advertising, however as the
individual paying the bill, you obviously are interested in the cost portion
of any and all advertising you take on.
Advertising is important to your business. It not only helps create an image
for your business, it additionally imparts a specific message or thought to
the intended audience. It moves people to action and that is something we
all want.
Since advertising can be a large portion of any business total marketing
plan, I offer the following cost savings ideas and tips that can
significantly help you save time and money and help make your advertising
efforts as effective as they can be.
There are three rudimentary ways to reduce the cost of something.
1) Do less of it
2) Get more of it done at one time (bulk savings)
3) Get it done less expensively
Effective ways of reducing your costs will be determined by what the "it" is
above you are attempting to get done.
When it comes to advertising your business, advertising less is not usually
an effective cost saving measure, although this is a tactic used by many
today. With increasing competition from all sides competing for the
attention of the same target audience as you are, you simply can't afford to
be noticed less and less. Eventually you will disappear altogether. Here are
some suggestions that you will find helpful.
* Develop a carefully conceived annual marketing plan. Make
sure
the plan incorporates more than just image advertising.
* Develop an annual advertising budget. The rule of thumb for
developing an
effective advertising budget is 3-5 % of your annual budget.
However, growing funeral homes or those unveiling a new community service or
product often need to spend 7-10% of their budget on advertising.
* Determine allocations to various media and a marketing
calendar to
show the timing and placement of all ads.
* Be consistent. Don't just run ads when the budget is
comfortable; the
competitor is running ads or business has slowed to a crawl.
Make a plan
and stick too it for the long haul.
* Advertising dollars are used most effectively utilizing a
consistent
appearance and message. Coordinate all messages and make the
tag lines and logo images the same. All aspects of the
advertising
campaign should work together, using the precise same logo
and typestyle to
give your business a specific individuality. Consider using
an advertising
Specialist to assist you.
* In all your advertising messages focus on the positive.
Educate and fully
describe the unique services you provide. Explain how you
can help the
reader. Share what's new at your business. Clearly outline
why and how
your business is different from all the others. Readers
always want to know
how "they will benefit" from allowing you to serve them.
* Schedule your advertising ads to run in flights. This
approach utilizes
heavily concentrated runs or flights of advertising mixed
with periods of
no activity. When you're advertising, advertise liberally.
When you're not
advertising, stay off everything. Concentrate on scheduling
your advertising
times during the fall, winter and early spring months.
* Use photos in your advertising. Pictures can and will grad
attention and
comments from readers/viewers. Let pictures help tell and
sell the message.
* Use satisfied customer testimonials. Nobody can sell your
services better
or with more enthusiasm and sincerity than a satisfied customer.
* Review your marketing plan every month or quarter, with
actuals penciled in next to projections. You should check to see if
expenditures are in line and the results meet or exceed expectations. Check
to see if some marketing activities for the last six months didn't support
the market strategy and served a different agenda. Maybe your business
conditions have changed in the last 90 days and the plan's objectives need
revising. Lake a web site, a marketing plan is a work in progress. It needs
constant updating to keep it fresh and relevant.
It has been proven in advertising circles that the amount of exposure you
have and the number of times you are exposed, directly influences the amount
of business you acquire. Therefore, getting less of it done is not in your
best interest or the answer.
Getting more of it done at one time and less expensively is possible. How
this can be accomplished by your business depends on the type of advertising
you do. Let's explore some of the most popular methods.
Saving On Newspaper
If you utilize newspaper you can get "More of it done" by taking advantage
of frequency discounts. Run advertisements over a thirteen or twenty
six-week period instead of eight to ten. Each of the additional insertions
individually cost less than if you only sign up for a limited number. If
this means you are taking about thirteen full-page ads instead of eight and
that significantly increases the overall dollar amount of the expenditure,
consider running two thirds of a page instead of the full-page ads.
Full-page ads give you the most exposure in one given issue; however, twice
as many issues will give yo