How to Guide 2014

Published on January 2017 | Categories: Documents | Downloads: 77 | Comments: 0 | Views: 1093

of 36

Content

How-To Guide
2014 | Helping you become an expert at making the right choices.
News
C A D I L L A C
Trusted. Local. Connected.
WHAT’S INSIDE...
03......................................Choose a Realtor
05........................................Choose Hospice
07......................... Choose a Cancer Center
09...................................Choose a New Car
11...................................... Choose a Career
13............................ Choose a Funeral Plan
15...........................Choose an Orthodontist
17........................... Choose a Lawn Tractor
19......................... Choose the Right Dentist
21..............Choose Windows & Patio Doors
23.......................... Find Home Health Care
25............................Choose a Travel Agent
26............................ Choose an Audiologist
29.......................Choose the Right Hospital
31...................Choose a Physical Therapist
33......................Choose A Used Car Dealer
34................. Build a Perfect Web Presence
ADVANCE REALTY
PARK PLACE CENTRE
108 S. Mitchell, Ste. A • Cadillac, MI
advancerealty.com
[email protected]
CONVENIENT DOWNTOWN-AT-THE-PARK LOCATION
ADVANCE REALTY
Make The Right Move Now!
Don’t Just Expect the Best - Get the Best!
Call Advance Realty Now!
• Selling . . .
• Buying . . .
• Relocating . . .
• 36 Years Exceptional,
Professional Service
• Full Time Professional
Realtors Committed To Your
Individual Needs
231-775-1368 DIRECT
Carol Coe-Vokes
President, Broker-Owner, GRI-II-III, ABR, CRS, WCR
SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD
SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD
S
O
L
D

S
O
L
D

S
O
L
D

S
O
L
D

S
O
L
D

S
O
L
D
S
O
L
D

S
O
L
D

S
O
L
D

S
O
L
D

S
O
L
D

S
O
L
D
2 HOW TO GUIDE 2014 - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, August 8, 2014
Friday, August 8, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - HOW TO GUIDE 2014 3
The best agents are energetic, positive and
proactive.
On the other hand, selecting the wrong agent
will cost you lots of time and money.
So how do you ﬁnd the best agent for your
situation? Here are some ideas to keep in mind.
Real Estate Agent vs. Realtor
A real estate agent may or may not be a
Realtor, but every Realtor is required to be a
licensed real estate agent.
To become a Realtor, a real estate agent has
to join the National Association of Realtors
(NAR); this allows him or her to attend
industry meetings, get NAR newsletters, and
access software and educational tools.
Realtors adhere to a strict code of ethics
and have solid knowledge of the real estate
business. These professionals have been trained
well, which means they will provide you with
the best service.
Where to Start Looking
Recommendations are one of the best ways
to ﬁnd a qualiﬁed real estate agent or Realtor.
Ask people in your social network for referrals.
Sometimes agents are good at helping clients
purchase homes, but not as skilled at selling
them. Keep that in mind when searching for
the right professional.
You might also contact local brokers or search
the NAR directory online. Always work with
credible, responsible agents. Otherwise you
are wasting your time.
Comfort Level
At the initial consultation with a prospective
real estate professional, focus on your comfort
level while interacting with them.
Do you get the feeling they are genuinely
concerned about your needs? Or are they
focused on their commission? Do they know
the current housing market? Can they negotiate
a contract?
It is vital that you feel comfortable with
the agent. You must trust that this person can
behave ethically and help you secure a good
deal.
Communication and Planning
Your agent should be an effective
communicator. If you are selling your home,
your agent should develop an effective
marketing plan, explain it to you, and respond
to any questions or concerns you have.
The marketing plan will probably involve
placing advertisements and
conducting open houses to
invite the public for home
viewings.
If you are purchasing a
home, the agent should listen
to your guidelines and price
ranges.
Above all, your real estate
agent needs to provide
updates on progress. Do not
work with someone who
does not return phone calls
or emails.
More Resources
To get a better idea about
the process of buying and
selling a home, conduct some
research on your own. Real estate magazines
contain good information and can be a great
way to start your research.
There are also a lot of good resources on the
Internet, such as www.Realtor.com, which is
associated with NAR and which contains free,
useful information.
You may ﬁnd housing statistics, market
forecasts and tips, but nothing beats the power
of networking. You need to ﬁnd people with
similar interests who will help you in your
endeavor.
Upon successfully buying or selling your
home, keep your real estate agent’s contact
information on hand.
You may want to refer other people to him
or her. You may also need their services again
someday.
How-to
Choose a Realtor.
When you are buying or selling a home, it is essential to
choose the right real estate agent for your needs.
4 HOW TO GUIDE 2014 - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, August 8, 2014
7985 Mackinaw Trail, Suite 100,
Cadillac • 231-779-9550
Hospice for living.
Comfort, support and compassionate care.
It takes so much more than one person to deliver true hospice care. That’s why there is a team
assigned to every person - doctors, nurses, clergy, volunteers, social workers, aids - all working
with the family. At Mercy Homecare and Hospice, providing personalized home healthcare
isn’t a business, it’s our calling. We are here to serve the community and we are focused on the
Trinity Mission, to heal body, mind and spirit, and to improve the health of our communities and
steward the resources entrusted to us.
Friday, August 8, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - HOW TO GUIDE 2014 5
Hospice provides care to terminally ill patients
in their home, hospital or nursing home, which-
ever is the most appropriate setting. With an
emphasis on comfort and quality of life, a team
of physicians, nurses, therapists, bereavement
counselors, pharmacists, personal care assistants,
volunteers, social services and clergy provided
clinical, spiritual and emotional care to patients
and their families experiencing a life-limiting ill-
ness. Medications and medical equipment costs
may be covered, based on eligibility.
With all the choices out there today, you may
wonder how to choose a hospice. Following are
points to consider when choosing a hospice for
you or your loved one:
• Experience. Ask how long has the
hospice organization been in the community
and how many patients they serve.
• Availability. Are palliative (comfort)
care and supportive services available 24 hours a
day, seven days a week?
• Continuity of Care. Is the hospice
agency afﬁliated with a hospital to provide con-
tinuity of care should you need to be hospital-
ized?
Does it have relationships with long-term care
facilities? A good hospice will assist with long-
term care placement when needed and provide
hospice services while you are a resident.
• Team of Care Providers. A good
hospice agency will have a strong team of expe-
rienced staff as well as experienced volunteers
who will all work together to provide you and
your family with the best possible care.
• Pain Management. Ask about the
hospice agency’s philosophy on pain manage-
ment. Hospice afﬁrms life and neither hastens
nor postpones death. An effective hospice will
provide pain management and care during the
end-stage of life, with the goal of helping pa-
tients remain pain-free and as active as possible
for as long as possible.
• Quality of life. Hospice caregiv-
ers recognize dying as part of the normal
process of living and believes the quality
of life is as important as the length of
life.
• Services. Ask about the types of
services available to you and your fam-
ily. Hospice services typically include:
• Medical direction of the patient’s care,
provided by the patient’s personal
physician and/or a physician afﬁliated
with a hospice program.
• Regular nursing visits in the home to
monitor the patient’s condition, pro-
vide appropriate care and maintain
comfort.
• Home health aide services for the patient’s
personal needs.
• Chaplain services for the patient and/or loved
ones if desired.
• Social work and counseling services.
• Bereavement counseling to help patients and
their loved ones with grief and loss. Ask how
long it is offered and what type of support is
available.
• Medical equipment (hospital beds, oxygen
tanks, etc.)
• Medications for symptom control and pain
relief.
• Volunteer support to assist loved ones.
• Physical, speech and occupational therapy.
• Dietary counseling.
Consider these and other questions you may
have when choosing a hospice organization.
Hospice is a very special kind of care that can of-
fer you and your family support at a time when
you need it the most. It’s important that you
choose an agency that you feel comfortable with
and that can offer the services you need.
With an emphasis on
comfort and quality of
life, hospice provides care
to terminally ill patients
in their home, hospital
or nursing home. There
are many factors to
consider when choosing
a hospice, including how
experienced the hospice
organization is, and what
services are provided.
How-to
Choose Hospice.
With an emphasis on comfort & quality of life.
6 HOW TO GUIDE 2014 - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, August 8, 2014
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy, common
forms of cancer treatment, often require a patient
to make daily, weekly or monthly visits to a
healthcare facility. The process can take its toll on
patients and families - physically and emotionally.
Choosing the right place to receive treatment
can make all the difference. Cancer patients face
multiple visits to multiple departments during
their cancer journey so having a consolidated
center housing all cancer related services under one
roof can turn what may be a complicated journey
into a seamless experience.
LOCATION
Driving or being transported long distances to
receive cancer treatment can heighten a patient’s
anxiety. Many report side effects following
treatment including nausea and fatigue so receiving
care close to home reduces stress for both the
patient and caregiver. It also reduces the ﬁnancial
burden during the cancer journey.
COMFORTABLE ATMOSPHERE
FOR TREATMENT
An open, inviting atmosphere can turn a
cancer treatment session into time with friends.
Chemotherapy visits are typically scheduled
at the same time each week, giving patients the
opportunity to see the same faces during each visit
and form bonds with other patients. A treatment
setting that fosters patient camaraderie with
bright, open spaces will make the experience more
pleasant. The opportunity to watch your favorite
television program on your own private television
will also help you feel relaxed during treatment.
STATE OF THE ART TECHNOLOGY
AND PHYSICIAN EXPERTISE
When selecting a cancer treatment center from
which to receive care, consider the quality of
technology offered at the center. New technology
should be designed to treat with unprecedented
speed and accuracy, offering more efﬁcient and
precise treatment giving each patient an extra
edge in the ﬁght against cancer. Newer, state of
the art equipment can deliver radiation in shorter
treatment times which means more accurate
targeting, less damage to healthy tissue and organs,
and potentially fewer side effects. Additionally,
you should have access to advanced care teams and
clinical research initiatives. You should consider
if the treatment center has a comprehensive
team in place including board certiﬁed radiation
oncologists, physicists, dosimetrists and radiation
therapy nurses to deliver the right radiation dosage
with precision. Board certiﬁed oncologists and
hematologists prescribe chemotherapies, plan
treatments and follow patients closely during the
course of treatment. Also consider if the nursing
staff are OCN certiﬁed (oncology nurse certiﬁed).
CLINICAL TRIALS
If you are diagnosed with an aggressive form
of cancer, FDA approved treatment may not be
enough. Cancer patients may be eligible to take
part in national clinical trials. Patients in trials are
among the ﬁrst to receive new research treatments
before they are widely available. Check with your
oncologist to determine if clinical trials are right
for you or your family member.
WELLNESS RESOURCES
While the body responds to chemotherapy or
radiation treatment, it is important that a cancer
treatment center offers wellness services to
complement clinical care. Integrative therapies,
such as massage and acupuncture, are scientiﬁcally
proven to minimize side effects of treatment with
strategies for pain control and relaxation. It is also
important to have the opportunity to research and
learn about your speciﬁc cancer. Being informed
and educated about a speciﬁc type of cancer
helps patients deal with the emotional aspect
of treatment and gives them hope. Education is
important on the road to recovery.
When patients begin to lose their hair as a result
of chemotherapy, many need encouragement
and assistance from licensed professionals.
Many cancer centers partner with the American
Cancer Society- endorsed Look Good, Feel
Better program, which helps boost patients’
self-conﬁdence. Licensed cosmetologists help
patients with make-up application and wig ﬁttings
to aid them in coping with the changes in their
appearance during the healing process.
KNOWING THAT
YOU’RE NOT ALONE
Support groups offer cancer patients a safe
environment to connect with others going through
the same emotional and physical journey. Being
able to share struggles and victories with others is
an important part of the healing process. Caring,
compassionate staff members can also lend a
listening ear while providing care and support
in speciﬁc ways. Social workers are trained to
identify and assist with psychosocial needs, such
as transportation, ﬁnancial issues and emotional
support. Staff dieticians can focus on caring
for cancer patients while providing nutritional
guidance and demonstrations of cooking
techniques. It is important that the cancer center
you choose for treatment offer these resources to
help you through your journey with cancer.
How-to
Choose a Cancer Treatment Center.
Whether you, a friend or a family member receives the devastating news,
a cancer diagnosis is frightening for everyone involved.
Friday, August 8, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - HOW TO GUIDE 2014 7
Cancer Care
Experience a new level of expertise at the new
Susan P. Wheatlake Regional Cancer Center.
For cancer screenings, diagnosis and treatment, you don’t have to travel far to receive
exceptional care. At Spectrum Health Reed City Hospital, our specialists are part of the
largest cancer program in West Michigan. Discover our growing investment in Reed City,
and a team of specialists who know the meaning of hope. For greater possibilities in the
ﬁght against cancer, visit spectrumhealth.org/reedcity.
Greater possibilities
for cancer care.
Gustave Flaubert once said, “Success is a result, not a
goal.” There are always a few who are inspired to work a
little harder and climb a little higher.
So where can you ﬁnd this same commitment to
excellence in an automobile dealership? At Highpoint.
We’re a unique dealership with an exceptional way of
doing business.
At Highpoint, success will never be an indication of
completion, but a signal to begin again. That’s why we
are constantly revitalizing our facilities, our services and
our premiere selection of ﬁne automobiles. Perhaps that’s
why so many of this area’s successful individuals will make
Highpoint their dealership.
Visit us, we perform at the highest level . . . yours.
South End Business US-131 • Exit 177, Cadillac • (231) 775-1222 • 1-800-828-9852
SALES HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8:30 AM-6 PM, Sat. 9 AM-1 PM SERVICE DEPARTMENT: Mon.-Fri. 7:30 AM-5 PM, Sat. 8 AM-NOON FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE
SEE OUR INVENTORY AT www.HighpointAuto.com
JASON COPPICK JACK PEDLAR AL PIERCE JERRY KOOP, SR. JERRY KOOP, JR.
Success
HIGHPOINT CADILLAC GMC…
We Perform at a Higher Level - Yours.
8 HOW TO GUIDE 2014 - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, August 8, 2014
Friday, August 8, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - HOW TO GUIDE 2014 9
Because of this initial anxiety in the minds
of car buyers, purchasing a new or even a used
car has become a tactical encounter instead of
a simple negotiation for a good price on a new
or used car.
There is a way to handle the entire process of
car buying that consists of just a few calculated
steps that will result in your ﬁnding a good car
dealer you will be very pleased with.
Selecting the right kind of car for you and
your family is by far the biggest thing to
consider. If you have a large family and you
take frequent trips with the family, you should
be looking at an SUV or a van to accommodate
everyone. On the other hand, a college student
buying a car will ﬁnd that a small sub-compact
or a compact car will meet his needs adequately.
Consider your neighborhood and
preferences when determining the type of the
vehicle and related options. In case you have a
long travel drive to work on a daily basis, you
should think of a smaller vehicle having a good
MPG rating. Also, items like hybrid models
and suitable options for your needs as well as
your locale should be considered. Those who
live in cold weather must seriously consider a
style of vehicle with all-wheel drive or front-
wheel drive.
The next step is to spot vehicle types that
interest you. Internet sites as well as other
highly regarded resources are available for you
to do research on styles which ﬁt your needs.
You really need to select from several models
that interest you.
Test driving the vehicle ﬁrst, prior to making
any concrete decisions to purchase or to speak
about price is the correct way to proceed. You
have got to identify your top two or so choices
so that you can select a new car dealership to
start discussing buying a vehicle.
Do not get caught up in talking about sales
agreements yet; you’re still in the process of
contemplating the ideal choice for your new-
car.
When you decide on a few cars you would
consider purchasing, start to research the
dealers in your local area. For your best two
vehicle selections, it is best to ﬁnd the closest
couple of dealers for that make of vehicle. This
is important in getting the selling price down,
since dealers for the same types of vehicle will
compete for your sale.
Also make sure you have looked out for
current sales of the car you are interested in.
Automobile producers have several sales that
may enable you to get a greater deal on the
automobile of your choice.
In addition at particular times in the year,
such as the product year-end occasions, you
can get a better deal on a brand new automobile.
If you are adamant, and want to hold out for
the best possible price, get in touch with the
dealerships in your local area with a request
for a price quote on your top two favored
models. This way when it comes time for
you to complete a buying decision, you will
possess price quotes that you can use to get a
potentially better offer on the vehicle.
After you have received price quotes from
the closest dealerships, start contacting dealers
of your favorite vehicle selection. Obtain the
dealerships’ very best price on your automobile.
Then you may wish to go to these dealers and
begin talking to sales agents regarding your
potential automobile purchase.
It is critical that you only deal with a
dealership you’re comfortable with. Because
of the large price of a car and the long-term
commitment you are entering, you will ﬁnd
that it is worth it to invest a few extra dollars
to get a seller who gives you a good buying
experience and who meets your car buying
needs.
How-to
Choose a New Car Dealer.
New car buyers are often afraid of overpaying when they
have to interact with a new car dealer to purchase a vehicle.
The Wexford-Missaukee Intermediate School District does not discriminate in any of its educational programs, or employment practices on the basis of race, creed, national origin, sex, age, height, weight, marital status, handicap or English speaking activities.
The Wexford-Missaukee Career Technical Center Mission is to “Prepare Students For Career Success”. Please go to www.wmisd.org
for program specifc information or call us to set up an appointment to meet with a counselor or instructor at 231.876.2200
Proudly serving Cadillac, Lake City, Manton, Marion, Mesick, McBain and Pine River.
Earn Academic Credit
• Aligned to the Michigan Merit Curriculum
• Earn academic credit in English language arts, math, science or
applied arts while you explore a career
Earn Scholarships
• For post-secondary education • For tools to enter the workforce
Earn FREE Credits
• Earn college credits (direct, articulated and dual)
• Free credit opportunities with Baker College and articulated credit
opportunities through other institutions
• Early college program, earn an A.A.S. for free (call for details)
Hands-On
• Combining the classroom with hands-on learning
• On-the-job, practical, and real-world experiences
• Taught by experienced professionals on state-of-the-art equipment
• Work-based learning and co-op opportunities
CCC
TTT
CCC
AREER TECHNICAL CENTER
Earn FREE
College Credit
Explore and Train For Career Success, While in High School
Career Success
• On-the-job experiences = informed career choices
• Save $$ and start college or a career with a focus and a plan
• Interviewing techniques, training, and aptitude testing available
• National Career Readiness Certification validates job force
readiness
Explore and Train for Your Success
• Call 231-876-2200 today for additional information or ask your high
school counselor to arrange a visit
• Plan now and enroll for you 11th and 12th grade years
• WMCTC proudly serves schools in Cadillac, Lake City, Manton,
Marion, McBain, Mesick, and Pine River areas
• Enrollment is free
• Half a day is spent at the WMCTC and half of you day is at your
high school; bussing is provided
• For a fee, adults and high school graduates may enroll in daytime
programs when space is available
Automotive Technology
Intro to Health Care
10 HOW TO GUIDE 2014 - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, August 8, 2014
Friday, August 8, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - HOW TO GUIDE 2014 11
For most, however, this “passion” won’t
become realized until an experience sets them
on course for their career. Regardless, lifelong
personal success depends on – you.
Yes, qualities such as ambition, dedication,
education, and skills all play a role in
determining your future, but true success will
also be determined by well-developed strategies
concerning academics and career. But what, then,
are the right steps to take in order to achieve these
desired results? Everyone has different paths
they choose to take, but here are some tips to
consider before making a life-changing decision.

Develop a career plan
Think about what you want to do and ﬁnd out
more about the kind of training, education, and
skills needed to achieve career goals.
Assess skills & interests
Think hard about what you enjoy, what you
are good at, what kind of personality you have,
and your values. You don’t want to work hard
toward a career you’ll dislike.
Research occupations
Find out more about the nature of the jobs that
interest you such as educational requirements,
salary, working conditions, future outlook, and
industry certiﬁcations.
Compare your skills
Compare your skills and interests with your
selected occupations. The career that matches
your skills, interests, and personality the closest
may be the career for you.
Choose a career goal
Once you’ve decided what occupation matches
you best, begin developing a plan to reach your
career goal.
Select a training center
You’ll need one that offers a college degree or
training program to meet your career goal and
ﬁnancial situation.
Research funding options
Find out about ﬁnancial aid and scholarships
that could help support your efforts to attain
your goal.
Develop job-hunting skills
As you prepare to graduate or move into
the job market, you should develop a true
understanding of how to locate and secure jobs
in your industry and know about different hiring
processes.
Develop interview skills
Develop an impressive résumé style along with
dos and don’ts. Learn acceptable interviewing
techniques and develop communication skills.
Seek assistance
Go to a career guidance center at a school
or college or a local library for additional
information and help on career planning and
don’t forget about Internet resources.
Fastest growing jobs
in Michigan
01. Registered Nurses
02. Customer Service Representatives
03. Truck Drivers, Heavy and Tractor-Trailer
04. Accountants and Auditors
05. Elementary School Teachers, except Special
Education
06. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational
Nurses
07. Industrial Engineers
08. Computer Systems Analysts
09. Human Resources, Training, and Labor
Relations Specialists
10. Network Systems and Data
Communications Analysts
11. Insurance Sales Agents
12. Management Analysts
13. Dental Assistants
14. Purchasing Agents, exe. Wholesale, Retail,
and Farm Products
15. Dental Hygienists
16. Bill and Account Collectors
17. Public Relations Specialists
18. Sales Managers
19. Market Research Analysts
20. Computer Software Engineers, Applications
21. Skilled Trades (Welders, Machinists,
plumbers, masons. etc.)
How-to
Choose a Career.
Some people are born knowing what their career passion is in life.
IMPORTANT POINTS
• Compare your skills and interests
with your selected occupations
• Develop an impressive résumé and
polish your interviewing skills
• You will need a school or training
center that meets your education
and fnancial requirements
QUESTIONS TO
THINK ABOUT
• What occupation matches you best?
• Do you have a plan to reach your
career goal?
(231)775-3411
PETERSON
FUNERAL HOMES, INC.
As a member of the community since 1932, Peterson
Funeral Home understands the importance of caring and
respect. Taking the necessary steps now to plan and fund
your funeral is very important to your family’s future. In
fact it is very comforting to know that your wishes are
known and carried out. For professional guidance in your
time of need, call or visit us today.
24 Hr. On Call Staff
Preplanning
Arrangements
Traditional
Burial
Cremation
Services
The Peterson Chapel
205 E. Cass St., Cadillac, MI
Ross C. Meyering, Mgr.
231-775-3411
The McBain Chapel
212 E. Maple St., McBain, MI
Megan Meyering-Brinks, Mgr.
231-825-2361
12 HOW TO GUIDE 2014 - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, August 8, 2014
Friday, August 8, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - HOW TO GUIDE 2014 13
Making funeral arrangements can be hard.
Dealing with the death of a loved one is a
challenge.
That’s why it is better to think ahead so you
can have a clear mind while making these dif-
ﬁcult decisions.
Most people don’t have much experience
with planning funerals. When the time comes
to visit a funeral home, they ﬁnd prices vary
dramatically. Indeed, funerals can be costly.
Planning before your time of grief will help
you make wise decisions under difﬁcult cir-
cumstances.
Here are some things to consider when you
must select a funeral home.
The ﬁrst step is to ﬁnd out if the deceased
has made any funeral arrangements and
whether these plans need to be changed.
Sometimes weather may be an issue or other
factors may get in the way of what has already
been planned.
If no arrangements were made, ask family
and friends to see if the deceased made any
speciﬁc wishes. If possible, respect those
wishes.
If pre-arrangements with a local company
exist, then contact that company. Arrange-
ments bought years ago may not cover the cost
of the funeral or represent the latest wishes of
the deceased. If you are in this situation, look
around to see if another funeral home has a
better arrangement, or make adjustments as
necessary.
To ﬁnd the right funeral home, ask family,
friends and pastors for a recommendation. It
is a good way to focus on funeral homes with
excellent reputations. You might also consid-
er your own experiences at funeral homes in
your city.
If you cannot get referrals, look on the In-
ternet. Select three or four funeral homes that
might ﬁt your needs. Visit each one with a
close friend or relative.
Budget is a major concern for most people.
Inquire about basic fees. Ask about services
the funeral home may offer and if payment
arrangements can be made. Ask questions
and take notes. Staff members should be pa-
tient with you.
It is important to get written estimates for
everything. Ask about hours for viewing, in-
house versus off-site services, cremation ser-
vices, additional fees and special requests.
The Federal Trade Commission mandates
that funeral homes must provide customers
with a price list. If you believe the casket pric-
es are too high at one funeral home, you can
purchase the casket elsewhere without being
subjected to additional charges.
Do not decide on a funeral home right
away. Think about it for a bit. The decision
should be made with clarity, free from emo-
tion.
After deciding on a funeral home and type
of service, documentation is the next step.
The funeral director can help you with the
required forms and permits. You should have
a copy of the death certiﬁcates and make the
actual burial or cremation arrangements.
When other relatives or friends are involved,
it is best to ﬁnd a funeral home that ﬁts your
family’s needs. Talk with them honestly and
compare notes. Don’t allow yourself to be
pressured into additional services you don’t
need or can’t afford. Stay within your budget.
Talk to the funeral home and tell them who
in the deceased’s family is authorized to make
decisions. Be very detailed about your expec-
tations and what kind of arrangements you
want. Tell them if something is not being done
according to your intentions.
Good funeral homes will guide you through
the process to ensure that the funeral runs
smoothly for everyone. In your time of grief
and hardship, preplanning can give you a
small measure of comfort and peace.
How-to
Choose a Funeral Home.
Having to plan something as costly and
monumental as a funeral can be difﬁcult.
Dr. Bandeen has been a Damon Braces System Provider
longer than any other Orthodontist in Northwest Michigan.
Using DAMON BRACES means:
• Bulky Uncomfortable Herst Appliances - Never • Head Gear - Never • Expanders - Rarely
• Extractions - Rarely • Happy Patients - Always
Dr. Bandeen does the free initial exam. You also receive a digital pantographic x-ray and digital
photographs AT NO CHARGE. Come and fnd out why this is the place to be!
• AFFORDABLE PAYMENT PLANS • FAMILY DISCOUNTS • Most Insurances Accepted
NO REFERRAL NEEDED CALL TODAY! (231) 876-2530
We’re All About
Smiles
Thank you for choosing Bandeen Orthodontics for your Orthodontic needs. As the only full-time Orthodontist
in Cadillac, I am always here to ensure that your experience is the best possible.
Dr. Roger L. Bandeen
Come fnd out what Damon Braces can
do that Invisalign can’t…
and often in less time!
FREE INITIAL EXAM
Bandeen Orthodontics
8865 Professional Drive, Cadillac, MI 49601
www.bandeenbraces.com 231-876-2530
Open Until 7:00 PM
Dr. Roger L. Bandeen
Orthodontic Specialty License #936
14 HOW TO GUIDE 2014 - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, August 8, 2014
Friday, August 8, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - HOW TO GUIDE 2014 15
Many men and women feel ashamed
of their teeth, but few people are born
with a perfect smile.
An orthodontist can help you gain
conﬁdence, health and happiness.
By using modern technology, these
trained professionals can make any
mouth look amazing.
A good orthodontist will provide a
customized treatment delivered with
compassion and care.
Orthodontists receive similar
education and training, but not all are
gifted practitioners.
Recommendations from people in
your social network will give you good
leads.
SERVICE
Because treatment takes time, you
should develop a good rapport with
your orthodontist.
You will also experience some
physical discomfort while receiving
treatment. That is expected. It is how
this professional treats you, and the
environment around you that will
make a difference.
The waiting area should be
comforting and soothing. Focus on
how the staff treats you and others.
Children are the most common type
of patient for orthodontists. Watch
their reactions closely. If they seem
relaxed and comfortable, then you
might be in the right place.
Look for an orthodontist who
knows the value of time. You should
not have to wait a long time in the
waiting room.
Quality orthodontists perform
most of the work on your braces
themselves. They don’t ofﬂoad it on
staff members.
You also need someone who can
communicate clearly. Listening to
questions and answering them clearly
is part of their job. You are not just any
patient. High quality orthodontists
see you as a valued client and treat
you as such.
Dental assistants are part of the
treatment team, so it is wise to form
good relationships with them. They
will contribute during the phases
of treatment and have undergone
rigorous training. These professionals
will help you during the process.
TECHNOLOGY
Ask each prospective orthodontist
about the technologies he uses.
There are several systems, each
quite different from the other. Some
methods require more adjustments,
and some take longer to do the job.
Each professional should explain
the trade-offs between one system
and another. Each has advantages and
disadvantages. Have him explain why
he prefers one over the other.
Innovations are always happening
in the ﬁeld of orthodontics. One
popular option for braces is the
Damon system. It doesn’t use elastic
or metal ties. It is a safe, comfortable
and discreet choice that is also healthy.
It doesn’t attract plaque like older-
style braces.
How-to
Choose an Orthodontist.
Nothing expresses conﬁdence,
health and happiness like a good smile.
16 HOW TO GUIDE 2014 - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, August 8, 2014
! y a d o T s t n e m e l p m I r e k l e o V y B p o t S
E R E E D A E K I L S N U R G N I H T O N
™
0 6 r o f % 0
s h t n o M
†
r o t c a r T t c a p m o C - b u S E 3 2 0 1
r e l a e d e r e e D n h o J r u o Y
! u o y r o f l a e d a s a h
- 2 , I F E s a g * , p h 5 . 5 2 , H P M 5 . 8
S W
r o f g n i c n a n i F % 0 . 0
s h t n o M 0 6
2 2 c *
s e i r e S e r u t a n g i S 0 3 7 X
r o t c a r T
r e d a o l d n a r o t c a r t e l i t a s r e V
% 0 . 0 r o f f O 0 0 5 1 $
s h t n o M 0 6 r o f
8 0 1 ^ c
2 1 5 / r o t c a r T D 5 5 0 5
r e d a o L
. r u o f s t a e s d n a e l b a d r o f f A
r o f g n i c n a n i F % 0 . 0
s h t n o M 6 3
c *
r o t a G 4 S 0 5 5 V U X
m o c . e r e e D n h o J . w w w
8 2 2 4 1 4 0 0 - 6 A C B 3 2 E 0
C N I S E L A S T N E M E L P M I R E K L E O V
E V I R D D N A L H T R O N 0 8 8 8 1
7 0 3 9 4 I M , S D I P A R G I B
2 0 3 6 - 6 9 7 ) 1 3 2 (

. C N I S E L A S T N E M E L P M I R E K L E O V
D A O R Y E R O M H T U O S 3 6 3 4
1 5 6 9 4 I M , Y T I C E K A L
0 6 6 8 - 9 3 8 ) 1 3 2 (

c
4 1 0 2 , 1 3 y l u J s d n e r e f f O
*
. 4 1 0 2 / 1 3 / 7 0 s d n e r e f f O
†
2 3 1 ^ c s u n o B t n e m e l p m i 0 0 0 1 $ s u l p s h t n o m 0 6 r o f % 0
8 0 1
. s r e l a e d S U g n i t a p i c i t r a p t a y l n o d i l a V . s r o t c a r T y t l a i c e p S s e i r e S 5 & , 5 2 0 5 , M 5 s e d u l c x E . ) r e d n i l y C 3 ( E 5 / D 5 n o s h t n o m 0 6 r o f % 0 . 0 f o e t a R d e x i F r o f f O 0 0 5 1 $
^
r e h t o ; y l p p a s n o i t c i r t s e r e m o S . l a i c n a n i F e r e e D n h o J h t i w t i d e r c t n e m l l a t s n i d e v o r p p a o t t c e j b u S
. s n o i t p o g n i c n a n i f r e h t o d n a s l i a t e d r o f r e l a e d r u o y e e s o s , e l b a l i a v a e b y a m s m r e t d n a s e t a r l a i c e p s
2 2
. d e r i u q e r e b y a m t n e m y a p n w o d % 0 1 o t p U
c
S U g n i t a p i c i t r a p t a y l n o d i l a V . s n o i t p o g n i c n a n i f r e h t o d n a s l i a t e d r o f r e l a e d r u o y e e s o s , e l b a l i a v a e b y a m s m r e t d n a s e t a r l a i c e p s r e h t o ; y l p p a s n o i t c i r t s e r e m o S . l a i c n a n i F e r e e D n h o J h t i w t i d e r c t n e m l l a t s n i d e v o r p p a o t t c e j b u S
. s r e l a e D
Friday, August 8, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - HOW TO GUIDE 2014 17
Lawn tractors can help cut down the time
it takes to mow your lawn. A high-quality
vehicle can assist you with a variety of tasks,
making landscaping easier and even more
enjoyable.
Everyone knows it’s important to use the
right tool for the job. Finding a good lawn
tractor that is built to last will go a long way
toward making your job less of a hassle.
THE RIGHT FIT
Lawn tractors come in a variety of
capabilities and price points. Most range from
$1,000 for a simple, basic model to $8,000
or more for a fully-featured, commercial-
grade tractor. In between, you will ﬁnd a vast
mixture of features and durability.
You can select the right model by asking
yourself how you will use the lawn tractor.
The size of your lawn is important, of course.
Bigger lawns need a wider mowing deck. You
should also consider other things you will do
with your lawn tractor.
High-end lawn tractors are more like pieces
of farm equipment than traditional ride-on
mowers. You can purchase accessories for
them, such as baggers, trailers, powerful
tillers and snowblowers.
You are not only buying a lawn mower.
These tractors are platforms that can be
used for all kinds of jobs. So check on the
accessories that come with each model, even
if you don’t plan on purchasing them yet.
You may appreciate the choices in the future.
SPEED, MANEUVERABILITY
Most people want to ﬁnish the job in the
least amount of time.
While it is true that large mowing decks will
cover more ground with each pass, there are
other things to consider as well.
The transmission and speed is also a factor.
How easy is it for you to change gears and
turn in different directions?
The zero-turn mower is another popular
option. These vehicles can turn quickly and
precisely to cut lawns of all sizes and shapes.
While they have been used for years by
commercial lawn crews, only recently have
these mowers become affordable for the
average homeowner.
Zero-turn mowers are particularly useful
when mowing close to homes, playground
equipment and other tight areas.
DURABILITY
The longevity of your lawn tractor is also an
important consideration.
The brand’s reputation should weigh heavily
when you are making a decision. Research
consumer reviews and talk to your friends
and family members about the best brands of
lawn products.
Also, visiting a retail store and talking to
knowledgable salespeople will also help you.
There are plenty of low-end, affordable
riding mowers out there, but few have a
reputation for durability. It is economical in
the long run to choose a well-built model
from a reputable manufacturer.
Inspect the construction of each lawn
mower careful to verify that it will meet
your needs. While you probably don’t need
the extreme engineering and high price of a
commercial-grade model, you ought to buy
the best model you can afford and follow the
maintenance directions closely. It will help
you get the most usage for your money.
Finding a good dealer is an essential part of
the process. When you locate an experienced
local retailer with a long track record of happy
customers, you will be well on your way to
selecting the right lawn tractor for you.
How-to
Choose a Lawn Tractor.
Take time and do your homework before
settling on the right riding mower.
18 HOW TO GUIDE 2014 - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, August 8, 2014
Strong, Healthy
SMILES
Start Here
Family Dentistry –
quality care for your
smile at every age!
Taking good care of your oral
health is important at any age.
We offer a full range of dental
care services – from routine
cleanings to ﬁllings, root canals,
whitening and even painless
laser dentistry – to help make
sure your smile stays healthy
and bright through the years.
929 N. Mitchell St., Cadillac • (231)775-7688 • Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm
Sheryl A. Jenicke, DDS
Friday, August 8, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - HOW TO GUIDE 2014 19
In the past, picking a dentist posed little
difﬁculty. Routine cleanings, X-rays and the
handling of more complex dental procedures
were all the duties of the local dentist or
the dental ofﬁce that was designated by the
patient’s insurance company.
These days, patients tend to conduct
independent research in order to ﬁnd a dentist
with whom they have complete conﬁdence,
and one they believe is best able to improve
their dental health in a convenient, comfortable
environment.
The process of selecting a dentist should
include consideration of several factors. It
makes sense to seek a dentist whose ofﬁce is
near your home or workplace and operates at
times convenient to your family.
Getting recommendations from loved ones
and colleagues can be a great way to identify
the best dentists.
Dental ofﬁces often have their own websites,
which include facts about the practice itself and
the educational and professional backgrounds
of those working there.
You should also try to learn how much
lead time is usually needed in order to make
appointments for teeth cleanings and other
routine procedures.
It is important to ﬁnd a dental ofﬁce able to
provide emergency services when unexpected
issues arise. You can learn whether a given
ofﬁce offers such services by simply placing
a call during business hours. Try to ﬁnd a
practice staffed by knowledgeable, personable
employees.
Check that he or she has earned the necessary
degree from a reputable school and are current
on all licensing and continuing educational
requirements. Ideally, he
will be familiar with the
latest dental technologies
and trends.
Always make certain that a
prospective practice accepts
your dental insurance. The
best dentists are known for
providing state-of-the-art
dental care while striving
to create and maintain a
healthy, beautiful smile for
patients.
Payment policies should
be discussed in advance
of any procedure, with
estimates being given for all
services. If dental insurance
will be used, always check
to be sure your chosen dentist
accepts your coverage type. If not, you may
need to ﬁnd an alternate dentist.
Discuss payment plan options ahead of time,
especially for the most expensive procedures.
When visiting a dentist for the ﬁrst time,
he or she should be professional and friendly.
Every dentist should be willing to answer all
questions pertaining to the individual patient’s
needs and concerns.
If phobias and pain are concerns, patients
should make that fact known during an initial
visit with a prospective dentist and determine
what can be done to alleviate them. Many
dentists are willing to go above and beyond to
cater to patients with these speciﬁc issues.
A basic oral health history should be taken
by the dentist, and possible future treatment
and prevention options should be discussed.
A good dentist will work to make his or her
patients comfortable and should have a pleasant
personality.
First impressions mean a lot when choosing
a dentist. If the dentist, hygienists or ofﬁce
staff create an atmosphere that is anything less
than professional or competent, a new dentist
should be sought.
The best dentists offer friendly, happy dental
experiences. They place a high priority on the
preferences and concerns of their patients and
offer exceptional, cutting-edge dental services.
Teeth are extremely important to overall
health and appearance and should be entrusted
only to the very best dentists. Finding a good
dentist is akin to ﬁnding a true friend within
the dental industry who consistently makes it
their goal to improve the beauty and health of
their patients’ smiles.
How-to
Choose the Right Dentist.
Selecting a dental professional is key in maintaining
your health and appearance.
20 HOW TO GUIDE 2014 - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, August 8, 2014
The Toughest Window
on the Block
Top 10 Reasons Why Polar Seal Windows Are Better Than The Competition
“Your Full Service Glass Shop”
DouGLASS
1722 N U.S. 131 (Next to Arby’s) • Cadillac
800-922-GLAS or 231-779-3960
Licensed & Insured.
Where’s the beef? How ‘bout more vinyl in
your vinyl window? More walls and thicker
walls means less chance for cold winter winds to
seep in through your windows. More chambers
help insulate; even as well as foam flled frames
insulate… it’s proven in test results!
SuperSpacer
®
, the only TRUE WARM-EDGE™
Silicone foam air spacer separates inner and
outer pane of glass so cold can’t transfer in
quickly like metal spacers. Conducts 100 times
less temperature than other “warm edge” steel
spacers, reducing the chance of condensation,
sweat or mold on your brand new windows.
The #1 rated Low E glass in Canada is your
best bet to save heating dollars. As winter gas
bills soar, using the right kind of Low E becomes
even more important. Our “HardCoat’ Low E has
the same net heat loss as an R-19 wall because it
allows more FREE solar energy in than any other
Low E or Heat Mirror available.
Triple Ultrasonically welded weather-stripping.
50-100% more weather-stripping than others seals
out wintery drafts better. Welded fbers remain
longer than woven and pile directors keep those
fbers standing up straight. Black weather-stripping
lasts longer and looks better years down the road
by hiding dirt.
Aluminum screen wire lasts longer. Sure, it’s
tougher to get aluminum wire screens installed
in the home without denting them (that’s why
we package them separately), but once they’re
installed, they won’t sag, fade and deteriorate like
fberglass screen wire.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Interlocking sashes eliminate leaks. We take
the time and workmanship required to make a
window with sashes that interlock. Polar Seal
has engineered a window that keeps out the
winter winds better than windows simply relying
on butting the sashes together and hoping the
weather-strip will stop the air.
Deep pocket sills and jambs cut wind down. 90
degree angles make it tougher for air to penetrate.
However, most forget this feature at the sill. By
sinking the sashes into deep pocketing jambs and
sills, air’s chances of getting in to your home are
slim to none.
78 different color and wood combinations.
Choose from 3 main colors (white, tan or
earthtone), add 4 real wood-look interior options
(Light Oak, Dark Oak, Cherry or Paintable/
Stainable Simulated Oak), and 7 exterior color
options (white, tan, earthtone, green, clay,
terratint, bronze and gray!)
Double strength glass looks and performs
better. Thicker glass resists breakage better and
lays fatter than single strength, reducing awkward
concave refections. Go ahead, knock on our glass
and compare it to the others.
Unmatched Service: Lifetime Limited Warranty.
No other vinyl window manufacturer that we know
of stipulates in their warranty that they, the factory,
will make house calls to service their products.
Our warranty is worth much more than the paper
it’s printed on; it is a contract between Polar Seal
and the homeowner.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Friday, August 8, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - HOW TO GUIDE 2014 21
They can be practical elements in your home
and enhance architectural features, like a living
room bay window. Windows and patio doors
protect you from Mother Nature, so care must
be taken in selection. Today, you have a myriad
of choices. Time should be set aside so you
know what products fulﬁll your needs, tastes
and budget.
When considering options, you may be
seeking a natural look, the ability to match your
color scheme or maintenance-free features. 20
years ago, vinyl windows were unheard of in
residential construction in Michigan. Now
they comprise over 50 percent of all sales and
are gaining ground. Why are vinyl products so
popular? Vinyl is affordable and can be custom
sized to your openings affordably. They require
little maintenance and vinyl does not rot, rust,
warp or corrode. The multi-chambered extruded
frames provide optimal thermal efﬁciency during
harsh winter months. Many manufacturers offer
several interior and exterior color combinations,
some even offer the traditional wood look on the
inside of your home, if you have your heart set
on the warm tones and beauty that only wood
can radiate.
Windows come in many styles and functions:
venting and non-venting, double hung, gliders,
or casements and awnings that crank out. There
are also specialty units like bays, bows, garden
windows and custom shapes such as triangles
and trapezoids. Windows are the creative
building blocks that let light and air pass into
your home so you need to select styles that fulﬁll
your purpose. Some homeowners prefer to have
all windows the same, while others consider the
room and function in determining the style.
Energy concerns have made consumers
aware of the glass options available. Years
ago windows were made with single panes of
glass and then storm windows were added to
increase efﬁciency. Technology has given us
products that optimize the energy efﬁciency
of our windows. Low-emissivity or Low-E
coatings on the glass, gas ﬁllings in the sealed
cavity between the two panes of glass and
polyester ﬁlms suspended between the panes are
readily available. Low-E coatings are popular in
northern climates where heat loss during winter
is a major concern.
Choose Windows
and Patio Doors
Non-conductive spacers between the panes of
glass decrease radiant cold transference across
the spacer channel, reducing condensation, mold
growth and reducing outside noise volume. As
energy becomes more costly, technology will
help increase energy conservation without
hampering construction design ﬂexibility.
Window manufacturers have their products
independently certiﬁed by the National
Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) against a
set of standards. Consumer can easily compare
product to see if they meet energy efﬁciency
needs. Use the U-factor rating to compare
products. The lower the U-factor, the better
the glazing resists heat transfer and the higher
the energy performance. Double hungs and
gliders must be loose enough to slide in the
track, so they have higher air inﬁltration rates
than casements. Casements, however, crank out
from the house so they can impede trafﬁc ﬂow
in a walkway.
Because there is so much to consider when
purchasing windows, ﬁnd a dealer who is able
to educate you about all the aspects of the
products. Windows and patio doors are no
longer ‘one size ﬁts all’ products. Warranty
issues may need to be addressed like stress
cracks and seal failures, so your window dealer
must let you know how these issues will be
handled. Although price is important, the
support system that backs up the products that
you purchase is just as important. Also, most
windows are manufactured per customer order
so they are not warehoused in a factory waiting
to be sold. This means that you need to plan
ahead and start working with a dealer of your
choice so you have time to make knowledgeable
decisions about the windows needed for your
project.
The installation of a window or patio door
is just as important as the product itself. Even
the best window can be installed improperly,
causing performance and operational issues. Be
sure to ﬁnd an installer who is reputable and has
references readily available.
Condensation problems arise because air can
only hold a limited amount of water vapor and
cold air holds less than warm air. The moisture on
the glass is an indication of the level of humidity
in the home, not the quality of the window,
although non-conductive spacers, Low-E glass
and gas ﬁllings may help reduce condensation.
How-to
Choose Windows & Patio Doors.
Whether building or remodeling, windows and patio doors are an
integral design factor in your project and a reﬂection of your tastes.
22 HOW TO GUIDE 2014 - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, August 8, 2014
More people are discovering the beneﬁts of the home
environment as a place that helps in healing and faster
recovery. Since 1985, Mercy Homecare has provided
the best in personalized healthcare services in the
most important environment of all, the home. As part of
Trinity Home Health Services, Mercy Homecare remains
focused on the Trinity mission, “…to heal mind, body
and spirit, to improve the health of our communities,
and to steward the resources entrusted to us.”
Mercy Homecare provides care seven days a week,
and offers 24-hour on-call access for admission and
clinical intervention. All this comes with a special
caring touch – warm, friendly smiles, and words of
encouragement. To make a home care referral or to get
more information, please call 231-775-9550 or see us
online at www.trinityhomehealth.org.
7985 Mackinaw Trail, Suite 100,
Cadillac • 231-779-9550
Feel right. At home.
Friday, August 8, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - HOW TO GUIDE 2014 23
There’s No Place Like Home
After my mother’s surgery, she required special
care. Home health care was the solution prescribed
by her doctor to get skilled nursing care in the
comfort of home.
I wanted to compare local agencies to see which
provided the best quality of care. I searched on
Medicare’s Home Health Compare at www.
medicare.gov on the Web. It reports to quality of
care measures for home health agencies. Then, I
called the home health agencies to ask questions to
be sure they could give her the care she needed.
What Is Home Health Care?
Basic home care refers to the kinds of services
provided to patients who otherwise might be unable
to remain at home because of disabling health
condition. Continued health supervision with an
emphasis on health promotion enables these patients
to maintain both a stable state of health and relative
independence.
Home health care is prescribed by your doctor and
is provided by a variety of health care professionals.
Medicare covers home health care that is temporary
and part-time.
Home Health Care:
What Medicare Covers
To ﬁnd out whether you or someone you know
qualiﬁes for home health services under Medicare,
talk to the hospital discharge planner or your doctor
or call the agency directly.
For those patients who are not covered by
Medicare, most home health agencies accept
reimbursement from private insurance companies
or from the patient directly.
To be eligible for Medicare paid visits, a patient
must ﬁrst qualify for skilled care, such as that
provided by a Registered Nurse or Physical
Therapist. Medicare does not cover basic home
health care services limited to assistance with
bathing, dressing and/or feeding.
For more information about these services and
Medicare’s coverage of home health care, read the
free publication from the Centers for Medicare &
Medicaid Services, “Medicare and Home Health
Care,” available on the Web at www.medicare.gov
or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
Compare Care:
Medicare’s Information About Quality
To help you make an informed decision, Medicare
provides quality of care information for all Medicare-
certiﬁed home health agencies. You can compare
how well agencies in your area help patients get
better in the following measures:
• bathing
• dressing themselves
• getting to and from the toilet
• mobility
• getting in and out of bed
• taking oral medicines correctly
• level of confusion
• pain when moving around
• admission rate to the hospital
• the need for urgent, unplanned care
For this information, visit:
www.medicare.gov
(select Home Health Compare)
or call 1-800-MEDICARE
(1-800-633-4227)
TTY/TDD (1-877-486-2048)
Things To Ask
Home Health Agencies
Quality of care can differ among home health
agencies. To make the best decision, talk to your
family, health care provider, or discharge planner.
Call agencies and ask questions about their services.
Some services may not be covered by Medicare.
Ask whether the agency: Offers the speciﬁc health
care services you need, such as nursing or therapy;
Has staff available to provide the hours of care
your doctor ordered, and can start when you need
them; Meets your special needs, such as language
or cultural preferences; Offers the personal care
services you need, such as help bathing and dressing;
Offers the support services you need, such as help
with laundry, cooking or shopping; Can help you
arrange for additional services, such as Meals on
Wheels; Has staff available at night and on weekends
for emergencies; Is Medicare-certiﬁed; Will explain
what your insurance covers, and what you must pay
out-of-pocket; Does staff background checks; Has
letters from satisﬁed patients, family members, and
doctors.
Getting Started With Medicare’s
Home Health Compare Web Site
Getting information about the quality of local
home health agencies is easy. First, know what
services you (or your loved one) are likely to need.
Then:
1. Go to www.medicare.gov
2. Select Home Health Compare
3. Follow the step-by-step instructions on the web
site to ﬁnd information about agencies in your area
As you review the results of your search, look for
agencies that perform well in the services you need
most. When you call the agencies, use the checklist
in this brochure to guide you in learning more about
the services they offer.
www.medicare.gov
1-800-MEDICARE
(1-800-633-4227)
TTY/TDD
(1-877-486-2048)
How-to
Find Home Health Care.
Basic home care refers to the kinds of services provided to
patients who otherwise might not be unable to remain at
home because of disabling health condition.
What’s your next
destination?
Travel with Ease
Char Lyons, Travel Specialist
www.vacationeasier.com
231-222-4288 • [email protected]
If you don’t have a destination in mind but are itching to get
out and travel, just give us your ideas, budget and we will find
the perfect place foryou to fulfill your vacation dreams.
24 HOW TO GUIDE 2014 - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, August 8, 2014
Friday, August 8, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - HOW TO GUIDE 2014 25
Are you craving an escape to an exotic
location? Or are you searching for an exciting
family adventure? Then now is the time to
ﬁnd a travel agency and let them plan your
unforgettable journey! The travel agent will
help you create lifelong memories! All you
need to do is to pack your bags show up and
savor every moment of your vacation!
Who uses travel agents you ask! Here is a list
of the percentage of clients that do!
87% of cruises
81% of tours and all inclusive packages
51% of airline tickets
47% of all hotels
45% of all car rentals
Why use a travel agent?
A travel agent can provide you:
• Expert Guidance: With years of in-
dustry experience, we have both the knowledge
and ﬁrsthand experience to help you decide
which destination or resort is best for you. We
can provide you with a wide variety of travel
options from a number of different travel sup-
pliers to countless popular destinations. Plus,
we have all the travel information you need-
from the best attractions to see, the most ex-
citing activities to do, and the most affordable
way to get there...we’ve got it covered!
• Value: We understand that you may feel
limited by your vacation budget. That’s why
we’re dedicated to helping you receive the best
possible value. Best of all, you’ll receive all of
our professional guidance at no extra cost!
• Personalized Service: As your personal
Travel Agent, we’ll devote time and effort to mak-
ing sure you’re happy with your travel options. If
you need any assistance, we’re just a phone call or
e-mail away, so you’ll receive the immediate atten-
tion you not only need, but also deserve.
• Customer Advocate: In the rare
case that something on your trip doesn’t go as
planned, we’ll be here to resolve the problem,
so you can relax and enjoy.
• Time Savings: We know exactly where
to go to get the information that you need and
can ﬁnd your travel options within seconds.
Planning a vacation with us will save you both
time and money because with some effort and
organization, we’ll handle all your travel ar-
rangements.
• Unbiased Information: You can be
assured that we’ll do our best to make your
travel experience as wonderful as possible.
When you book travel through us, we work
for you-not the travel supplier, so our main
concern is always you and your unique needs.
Prior to booking online, you may want to
contact us to utilize our professional advice,
and ﬁrsthand experience with many of the
most popular destinations, resorts, and cruise
lines. We’re dedicated to offering you the
best prices and advice, while maintaining an
emphasis on customer service, so don’t hesitate
to contact us so we can start planning your
next unforgettable travel adventure!
How-to
Choose a Travel Agent.
The travel agent will help you create lifelong memories! All you need to
do is to pack your bags, show up and savor every moment of your vacation!
26 HOW TO GUIDE 2014 - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, August 8, 2014
Most of the hearing aids in the United States are
dispensed and ﬁtted by Audiologists using the most
advanced, computerized procedures and state-of-
the-art equipment to individualize their ﬁttings.
Hearing aid options are fully discussed with patients
based on the results of a complete hearing aid
evaluation that includes selection and veriﬁcation of
the devices most appropriate for the patient. Follow-
up, care and hearing aid accessories are readily
available from Audiologists dispensing hearing aids.
Audiologists provide extensive hearing aid
services to patients with hearing loss. In addition,
Audiologists are experts with other types of assistive
listening devices (ALDs) including individual
and group listening systems, telecommunication
devices, and personal alerting equipment. Finally,
Audiologists provide education and training,
which are crucial steps in ensuring that patients
receive optimum beneﬁt from ampliﬁcation and
communication devices.
Audiologists have special training and may be
found in medical centers, private practice and have
passed a demanding competency examination A
minimum of a masters degree program is required to
practice as a certiﬁed audiologist and most master’s
programs are transferring to doctoral programs.
These professionals belong to several national
organizations guided by a Code of Ethics requiring
that Audiologists’ services must be provided in an
ethical manner.
Hearing-Aid Selection & Fitting
The hearing-aid selection process begins with a
comprehensive hearing test. If you are a candidate
for hearing aids your Audiologist will discuss this
with you at the conclusion of the hearing test. The
Audiologist may suggest seeing a physician to obtain
medical clearance for purchasing hearing aids, due to
possible medical/surgical intervention. If you agree
to the recommendation of purchasing hearing aids,
the Audiologist will typically schedule a Hearing-
Aid evaluation. At this visit, the Audiologist will
discuss the available styles and technologies that
are most appropriate for you. Also at this visit the
Audiologist will take impressions of your ear canal,
explain the policies and procedures regarding how
the instruments are dispensed, and inform you of
the cost of the hearing aids.
Usually, it requires a couple of weeks for the
hearing aids to arrive. At the Hearing-Aid Fitting,
you will wear the hearing aids for the ﬁrst time to
be sure they are comfortable and that whistling
is not present. It is also during this visit that
your Audiologist will take additional measures
to verify that the hearing aids are providing
optimum ampliﬁcation. To accomplish this, many
Audiologists use real-ear measures to verify the
performance of hearing aids. This procedure allows
the Audiologist to assure you that the hearing aids
are optimized for your hearing loss. Finally, your
Audiologist will counsel you extensively on the use
and care of the hearing aids and review the warranty.
You should ask your Audiologist about the beneﬁts
from aural (re) habilitation services such as speech-
reading, auditory training, assistive listening
devices, communication strategies and counseling
to supplement beneﬁt received from ampliﬁcation.
Finally, you will be scheduled to return to your
Audiologist to determine if you need to have the
hearing aids adjusted.
How To Purchase Hearing-Aids
Hearing-Aid Signal Processing
Hearing aids can be divided into three major
technologies. At the time of the hearing aid
evaluation, your Audiologist will guide you through
the numerous options available to determine which
of the following general technologies would be most
appropriate for you.
Conventional with
analog signal processing:
These are the most basic hearing aids. They
typically provide “linear” signal processing where
soft, average and loud sounds are ampliﬁed equally.
With these hearing aids, patients often turn up the
volume control for loud sounds. These devices
usually require the Audiologist to send the hearing
aids to the manufacturer whenever changes are
necessary. These instruments are a good choice for
patients where ﬁnances are a major consideration.
Programmable with
analog signal processing:
These are analog instruments with digital
programming that allow the Audiologist to change
the parameters of the hearing aids via a computer.
This might be necessary to compensate for changes
in hearing or sound quality. Most of these hearing
aids provide “nonlinear” signal processing, where
they amplify softer sounds more and loud sounds
less. Because this signal processing automatically
adjusts volume, many of these hearing aids have
several memories “stored” in the hearing aids
that are available for improved understanding in
different listening situations. A remote control may
be necessary to access these memories or change the
volume. Some of these hearing aids also include more
than one microphone for enhanced understanding
of speech noise.
Digital Signal Processing (DSP)
with Programability:
This is the most current level of technology
available. Hearing aids with DSP are capable of
providing millions of calculations per second on
the signal(s) received at the microphone before
they are ampliﬁed and sent to the listener. Some of
these hearing aids allow the Audiologist to “divide”
the frequency response into numerous bands for
signiﬁcant ﬂexibility in shaping the response of the
hearing aids to more closely match the individual
needs of the patient. Some of these hearing aids
include more than one microphone to further
enhance the understanding of speech in noise. One of
the advantages of these hearing aids is the capability
to reduce or eliminate feedback or “whistling.”
5 Points for Hearing...
1. Admit that you have a permanent hearing
problem. “Honesty is the ﬁrst chapter in the book
of wisdom.” Thomas Jefferson
2. Be aware that it may take a while for the brain
to adjust to a hearing aid, so you can’t always
determine right away if you will like it.
3. Bring appropriate expectations: Hearing aids may
help you cope more effectively in communication,
but they will not restore normal hearing.
4. Be aware that hearing aids do not work well in all
situations. Educate yourself about hearing.
5 Practice, Time and Patience–Your Keys to
Success!
How-to
Choose an Audiologist.
Audiologists provide extensive hearing aid services to patients with hearing loss.
Hearing Loss Can Make You Feel Isolated.
It Doesn’t Have To Be That Way.
Call Now For An Appointment
231-775-9398
or toll free 877-775-9398
www.aschearingclinic.com
8872 Professional Dr., Suite A, Cadillac
Major Insurances Accepted
AFFORDABLE PAYMENT PLANS
“The Professional Choice for Hearing Healthcare and Balance Assessment”
Approximately 28 million people in the U.S. experience hearing loss, over 50% of them are under 65.
WHY CHOOSE ASC HEARING CLINIC?
• Staffed by Doctors of Audiology with over 60 years
of combined experience, we specialize in diagnosis
and management of hearing and balance disorders.
• Advanced testing and generous trial period allow
for real world hearing aid performance and the best
solutions to ft your hearing needs and budget.
• Hearing aid repairs, batteries and extended warranties.
• Major insurances accepted. Affordable payment plans.
Left to Right: Dr. Kelly Pendrick, Audiologist
Dr. Sharon Blackburn, Audiologist/Director/Owner
Dr. Amie Ruppert, Audiologist
Friday, August 8, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - HOW TO GUIDE 2014 27
28 HOW TO GUIDE 2014 - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, August 8, 2014
mercycadillac.com
A hospital is just a building until you ﬁll it with people.
Then it transforms into an extraordinary place of
commitment and care. We never forget that it’s our
people–the dedicated team of individuals who bring their
diverse skills to the task of healing–who make us strong.
Together, we are a hospital.
Where Healing Happens Every Day
Friday, August 8, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - HOW TO GUIDE 2014 29
Knowing what to look for and what to ask will
help you choose a facility that provides quality
care and best meets your needs.
Sometimes people aren’t left with the option
of choosing a hospital, especially in the case of
an emergency. Consider asking the following
questions to help you make a well-informed
decision about your health care needs.
General Questions
• Is the hospital accepted by your insurance,
HMO or PPO plan?
• Is the hospital conveniently located? Can you
and your family get there easily for scheduled
as well as emergency medical care?
• Is the hospital accredited by a nationally
recognized accrediting body, such as the Joint
Commission? Joint Commission accreditation
means the organization voluntarily sought
accreditation and met national health and safety
standards. The Joint Commission provides
on-site surveys to review the hospital’s medical
and nursing care, physical condition, life safety
program, special care units, pharmaceutical
services, infection control procedures and a
number of other areas affecting patient care.
• Does the hospital have a written description
of its services and fees? What resources does
the hospital provide to help you ﬁnd ﬁnancial
assistance if you need it?
• Is the hospital clean? Visit the hospital and
look around. Ask to see the waiting rooms and
patient rooms.
Questions about
your speciﬁc needs
• Do the services and specialties provided by
the hospital meet your speciﬁc medical needs?
Do you have a medical condition requiring
specialized attention? Your medical history and
current medical condition may affect the type
of hospital you choose.
• Do you know the hospital’s success record in
carrying out the speciﬁc medical procedure
you need? What is the training of the doctor
who will perform the procedure? Ask how
often the particular procedure is done.
• Does the hospital explain the patient’s rights
and responsibilities? Ask to see a copy of the
hospital’s patient rights and responsibilities
information.
• Do you know who is responsible for
maintaining your personal care plan? How
are the caregivers kept informed about your
speciﬁc care needs? Can you or your family be
kept up-to-date on your medical care?
• Does the hospital have social workers? Ask
what services the social workers provide.
Social workers usually help patients and
their families ﬁnd emotional, social, clinical,
physical and ﬁnancial support services.
• Will I see my doctor during my stay at the
hospital? Some hospitals participate in a
Hospitalist Program. A Hospitalist is an
Internal Medicine physician who specializes
in caring for hospitalized adult patients. Your
primary care physician, and in some cases
an Emergency Room physician, may refer
you to a Hospitalist when you are admitted
to the hospital. In other cases, you may
be admitted by a specialist who will treat a
speciﬁc condition, while a Hospitalist will be
consulted for your general care. A Hospitalist
may also evaluate you prior to surgery, so that
your stay is as safe and efﬁcient as possible.
Questions about
discharge planning
• Will a discharge plan be developed for you
before you leave the hospital? Ask what
services are available and what your primary
care doctor’s involvement will be.
• Does the hospital provide you with the
necessary training to continue your care in
your home after you have been discharged?
Ask what training is provided in changing
bandages, taking medications or using medical
equipment or devices. Does the hospital
provide you with easy-to-understand written
instructions?
What you should know:
• Look for an agent who is a member of the local
board or association of Realtors.
• An agent should explain and disclose their role
and who they represent.
• The agent should advise you on how to prepare
your home for the market.
• Be sure the professional shows enthusiasm,
listens well, instills conﬁdence, and has a
personality that is complimentary to your own.
How-to
Choose the Right Hospital.
Selecting quality health care services for you,
a relative or friend requires special thought and attention.
Who you see
for physical
therapy
is
your
choice
Cadillac
8872 Professional Dr
Suite C
231.876.0010
We help our patients achieve great outcomes. Our patient
satisfaction is excellent and our charges are signiﬁcantly
lower than most other physical therapy providers. We put
your needs ﬁrst to keep you active, healthy and happy.
Choose Dynamic Physical Therapy
www.dynamicptmichigan.com
Buckley • Cadillac • Gaylord • Grayling • Manistee • Marion • Traverse City
30 HOW TO GUIDE 2014 - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, August 8, 2014
Friday, August 8, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - HOW TO GUIDE 2014 31
Physical Therapists (PT’s) are health care
professionals who diagnose and treat people of all
ages who have medical problems or other health-
related conditions that limit their abilities to move
and perform functional activities in their daily
lives. PTs must have a graduate degree from an
accredited physical therapy program before taking
the national licensure examination. The minimum
educational requirement is a master’s degree, yet
most educational programs now offer the doctor of
physical therapy (DPT) degree. Physical therapists
practice in hospitals, private practices, outpatient
clinics, rehabilitation facilities, skilled nursing
facilities, homes, education or research centers,
schools, hospices, corporate or industrial health
centers, athletic facilities, and other settings.
Information You Need When
Selecting A Physical Therapist
You are the most important member of your own
health care team and are entitled to choose the most
appropriate health care professional to meet your
goals.
Because physical therapy treatment plans are
generally set up over a series of appointments, it is
important that you feel comfortable and conﬁdent
in the relationship with your PT. The treatment
center or facility is also important so be sure to
explore all options your community has to offer.
Your success depends on it.
Freedom Of Choice
You have the freedom to choose your own
physical therapist. No one can force you to choose
one physical therapist over another or one facility
over another. Just like it is your choice which
pharmacy to use to ﬁll your Doctor’s prescription,
it is also your choice which clinic to use for your
physical therapy care. Keep in mind that your
insurance policy may affect your coverage for
physical therapy depending on which clinic you
choose.
Some clinics also charge more than others and
this affects your coverage and out-of-pocket
expenses as well. Your physician may refer you
for physical therapy that is to be provided in his or
her ofﬁce or to a facility in which he or she has a
ﬁnancial interest. Most physical therapists oppose
this practice since it limits choice for patients and
has the obvious potential for bias.
How To Choose
A Physical Therapist
Make sure that you receive physical therapy
from a licensed physical therapist. Physical
therapists are professional health care providers
who are licensed by the state in which they
practice. If you are receiving physical therapy
from a physical therapist assistant, be sure that
he or she is supervised by a licensed physical
therapist. Ask the physical therapy clinic if they
participate with your insurance company and/or
will they submit claims on your behalf to your
insurance company. Some policies require co-
payments for services and the co-payment will be
dependent on if the physical therapist is part of the
insurers provider network. You will also have to
meet your deductible. Finally, ask around. You
may consider asking friends and family who they
have used for their physical therapy care. You
can also call clinics and ask to speak to a physical
therapist about your speciﬁc case before making
your choice.
Your Appointment
Your ﬁrst visit should include an evaluation by
the physical therapist. Your physical therapist will
perform an examination to identify current and
potential problems. Based on the results of the
examination, and considering your speciﬁc goals,
your physical therapist will design a plan of care
to include speciﬁc interventions and will propose
a timetable to achieve these goals and optimize
your function. Your physical therapist will likely
provide you with instructions to perform exercises
at home to facilitate your recovery. You should
feel comfortable asking your physical therapist any
questions regarding your course of care, including
speciﬁcs regarding interventions and expectations.
Consumers Awareness
With the Court reafﬁrming healthcare reform it
is more important for patients to understand their
right to choose healthcare providers. Currently
47 states allow direct access to physical therapy
providers. This means you, as a consumer of
physical therapy services, have the right to schedule
a consultation with a clinic of your choice without
a prescription from your physician. Michigan
happens to be one of three states, which does not
allow you to visit a physical therapist without a
prescription from a physician; however, you can
expect that to change in the very near future.
These changes are positive for all consumers as
they allow you to gain greater control over your
own healthcare. Look for clinics that invest in the
continued education of their physical therapists
and physical therapy assistants. Another good idea
is to ask about recent awards or recognitions they
have received. Focus on Therapeutic Outcomes
(FOTO) performs surveys of physical therapy
clinics nationwide every year. Do some research
and ﬁnd a clinic that performs well through the
eyes of their peers and critics. Your success in
recovery could depend on this decision and change
the way you look at physical therapy treatment.
How-to
Choose a Physical Therapist.
You are the most important member of your own health care team.
32 HOW TO GUIDE 2014 - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, August 8, 2014
How-to
Choose a Used Car Dealer.
When you have worked hard and saved up everything that
you have, ﬁnding the best used car dealer is important.
You do not want to end up with
a lemon that you cannot return.
You also do not want to pay more
than you should. Of course, the
dealer will need to make a profit
- which is perfectly reasonable -
but you still should have an idea
of the price you should pay for
the vehicle you want the most.
When it comes to spending
money, there is always an intelligent process you must go through to avoid
making mistakes that you can take back. Here are some tips on how to
choose a used car dealer.
1. Choose Your Vehicle
One of the worst mistakes that you can make is attempting to shop for a
car without knowing what you want.
The very first step in the process is deciding what kind of car you want. If
you do not know the exact make and model of the vehicle you desire, you
should at least narrow it down to the automobile type.
Decide whether you would like a sports car, an SUV, a pickup truck or a
van. That way you will not waste your time looking around at shops that
do not have what you need.
2. Search the “blue book”
The next thing you want to do before you choose a dealership is get an
idea of the amount you want to spend with the dealership.
You can search the Kelly Blue Book (http://kbb.com) for the make and
model of the car you desire. That way you have a general idea of the price
range you want to stay in.
It will keep you in perspective so you know roughly what to pay for a
particular car. In addition, search newspapers and online sites to see the
asking prices for cars that you’re interested in buying.
3. Talk to Friends and Family
The first thing you can do to attempt to find a reputable dealer is speak to
your closest friends and family members.
If they buy used cars like most people do, they will be perfect sources of
information on how their dealer treats its customers.
If you come across more than one positive family review of a specific
dealership, take that as a sign to check that dealer out. Your family will
never steer you to give your money to a bad dealer.
4. Search Locally and Online
Next, you want to gather a list of local dealerships. You can find this
information in your telephone book and online. Write down the addresses
of the top used car dealerships.
Call them up and make an appointment to come in a look at their inven-
tory. You can even ask them what kind of financing they have and if they
offer extended warranties on their vehicles and such.
Try to make appointments with all the establishments on the list. You are
going to research many dealerships before you choose. Picking a place to
buy a car from should not be decided on quickly and in haste.
5. Visit the Dealerships
Stop by each dealership that you have on your list. Look around for cars
that you want. Have in depth conversations with the sales clerk to find out
if he is someone you are comfortable doing business with.
Ask about the financing options, the warranty programs, the mainte-
nance, past owner reports, and anything else you can think of that makes
you feel more secure.
Do not make a purchase on the first visit. You have more shops to look at.
Grab a business card and move on to the next location.
After you have stopped by all locations on your list, you can research
customer reviews of the ones you thought were the best establishment.
This is how you will narrow it down to the No. 1 dealership. The dealer
with the car you want for the lowest price with the best customer review
will win your business.
Honesty and Integrity are the Foundation of Our Business!
®
www.DonsAutoClinic.com
1110 N. Mitchell • Cadillac, MI • 775-2413
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 AM-5:30 PM, Sat. 8 AM-2 PM, Other by Appt.
Over 200 vehicles to choose from! If we don’t have what you want in one
of Northern Michigan’s largest inventories - We’ll ﬁnd it!
In the
Market for
a Used Car?
Where You
Buy Matters.
Don’t get burned by dishonest
dealers. Every pre-owned vehicle
we sell comes complete with
vehicle history report, 100-point
inspection and a 30-day money
back guarantee.
Friday, August 8, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - HOW TO GUIDE 2014 33
34 HOW TO GUIDE 2014 - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, August 8, 2014
How-to
Build a Effective Web Presence.
A few things every business should do to
have an effective digital presence.
In the modern world, a strong digital presence
is no longer a luxury for a business: it’s a necessity.
With smartphones, tablets and mini laptops, most
shoppers are online while on the go and using
technology to make purchasing decisions more
than ever before.
So what does a small business have to do to stay
competitive in the digital marketplace? Below are
a few crucial elements and a few pitfalls to avoid
in order to create a successful digital presence.
Have a website
This should come as no surprise. With the
internet facing 30 years of ubiquitous use, a
website has become the gold standard of digital
marketing, and those without one are often passed
over by potential customers simply because they
didn’t show up on a Google search.
There are many affordable options when
choosing a company to develop your new
website and several build-it-yourself options
online. Whichever route you choose, be sure that
the website has a content management system so
you can make necessary changes without having
to call the “internet guy” every time you need to
make a minor change.
Also, make sure the site reﬂects your branding.
Having a website that looks nothing like your
business or does not reﬂect the needs of your
customers can work against you. To be safe,
hire a digital marketing consultant to help you
determine the appropriate theme, colors and
design elements. There will be a cost associated
with such a service, but it’s well worth it when you
see business being driven by your web presence.
With smartphones and tablets quickly becoming
the primary web-browsing tools, make sure your
site is mobile friendly. Some site templates display
well on mobile devices, but many do not. There
are companies out there who integrate mobile
sites with their web development packages, so
both web and mobile sites are controlled by a
single content management system.
WARNING: If you decide to build your own
site, or even if you have someone build it for you,
be sure that you own the rights to the content on
your site. Downloading something from the In-
ternet and using it on your site is quite often a
copyright violation and could cost you thousands
of dollars.
Have good SEO
If you just stopped reading to Google “SEO”,
you probably need a little help here. SEO stands
for Search Engine Optimization and is perhaps
one of the most important elements of your
digital presence.
Building a website without SEO is like building
a storefront on a hill back in the woods with no
sign by the road—your customers will never
know you’re there, even if they’re looking for
you.
SEO works by using keywords to identify
your site. How it works can be complicated and
changes on a daily basis (literally three times per
day on average), so it’s best to leave SEO up to the
experts who get paid to keep up with latest trends.
However, not all SEO operatives are created
equal and, due to the complicated nature of the
process, it’s easy to be fooled by industry jargon
and aggressive sales techniques. Make sure you
ask them to explain in laymen’s terms what they
will actually be doing for you; if they understand it
themselves, they should be able to explain it to you.
WARNING: If someone says they can get you
to the top of the list on search results, they are
misleading you. Google’s algorithm is a closely
guarded secret and to guarantee placement is just
not possible.
Get Social
Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and
all the other social media sites that seem to
pop up every day have taken a strong foothold
in the world of digital marketing. With more
than 1 billion people, Facebook leads the way
and has quickly become a staple in the digital
marketing mix.
However, having a social media presence can be
time consuming and costly if not done properly.
On the surface, Facebook is very easy to use and
provides a lot of analytics to determine impact.
However, the simplicity of use can lull you into a
false sense of success because Facebook is actually
rather difﬁcult to use correctly—that is, if you
don’t understand how Facebook actually works.
To learn more about how to make Facebook
(or other social media sites) work for your
business, do some research online or consult
with a social media marketing expert who can
train you on the basics.
There are companies that will take on the
task of managing your page for you, but this
can be expensive and they simply don’t know
your business the way you do. If possible, ﬁnd
a local company that knows your market and
understands your business.
WARNING: Be careful of social media market-
ers who promise a large number of “likes” al-
most overnight. These are often purchased likes
or come from some form of arrangement where
invitations are sent out to a large email list. You
may get a lot of likes, but the likelihood of some-
one from another country coming into your gift
shop in northern Michigan and making a purchase
is pretty low and not a good measure of success.
Call Chris today to set up your FREE consultation.
The Cadillac News provides digital marketing services that will
help your business grow both online and at your store front.
• Social Media Management & Consulting
Facebook, Google + and Twitter
We will post for you or help you shape the conversation yourself.
• Website Design and Development
Full-time professional graphic artists and custom Content Management System (CMS) programs
give you a beautiful site and the ability to make changes yourself. We won’t “nickel and dime”
you and you won’t have to wait for someone else to make changes or update your site.
• Mobile Marketing
We will optimize your website for total smartphone and tablet functionality.
Stay connected with customers no matter what device they are using.
• SEO (Search Engine Optimization)
We will use keywords and customized content to get you higher on that coveted Google list.
• Reputation Management (claim your listings)
Yelp, Google Places, Merchant Circle, etc.
We will go out and claim your listings – helping your internet reputation.
• Email Marketing
We’ve recently partnered with Constant Contacts, a national email marketing platform. We use
their platform and templates and apply our design eye and copywriting expertise to take the
work out of your email marketing program.
• Web Advertising at cadillacnews.com
Reach over 4,200 visitors per day with a vibrant, interactive message. By advertising at
cadillacnews.com, your information can be accessed by users 24/7/365.
• Google AdWords
We are AdWords Certifed and will design and manage your campaigns in Google’s
advertising program. Working with your marketing goals and within a budget of your choosing,
we will create ads targeting potential customers who are already searching for your products
or services online.
CREATIVE CONCEPTS. STRATEGIC MARKETING. EFFECTIVE APPLICATIONS.
231-779-4137
www.cndigitalsolutions.com
Get a Healthy Media Mix and stay in tune
with the latest ways to reach customers!
Digital Marketing services include:
Friday, August 8, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - HOW TO GUIDE 2014 35
Run with the
Leader
THE #1 SOURCE
of local news & advertising information.
To speak with a advertising specialist about the perfect place to
advertise your business, call 231-779-4142 and ask for Katheryn.
and find out "how to" use newspaper advertising to grow your business.

How to Guide 2014

Comments

Content

Sponsor Documents

Recommended