How To April 2013

How-To��GUIDE

How-ToHOW TO ��

APRIL 21, 2013 ��

Select An OBGYN

Choose A Garden Center

Choose A Retirement Community

Choose A Credit Union

Buy Hearing Aids

Diagnose Restless Leg Syndrome

Choose A Lasik Surgeon

Choose A Document Shredding Service

Know If A Metal Roof Fits Your Home’s Style

Choose Online Advertising

Get A Car Loan

page 2 The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, April 21, 2013

April 21, 2013

HOW TO SELECT AN OBGYN

HOW TO CHOOSE A GARDEN CENTER

HOW TO CHOOSE A RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

HOW TO CHOOSE A CREDIT UNION

HOW TO BUY HEARING AIDS

HOW TO DIAGNOSE RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME

HOW TO CHOOSE A LASIK SURGEON

HOW TO CHOOSE A DOCUMENT SHREDDING SERVICE

HOW TO KNOW IF A METAL ROOF FITS YOUR HOME’S STYLE

HOW TO CHOOSE ONLINE ADVERTISING

HOW TO GET A CAR LOAN

TABLE OF CONTENTSPAGE 3

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Ask yourself a personal ques-tion: Why did you select your Ob-Gyn? Maybe she was your mother’s ObGyn. Maybe his or her office is around the corner. Maybe your in-surance carrier assigned you. What-ever motivated your selection, you must ask yourself this question next: Are you happy with your choice?The fact is an ObGyn is a vital com-

ponent of every woman’s health and well-being, and the selection process deserves careful thought and con-sideration. If you’re interested in evaluating your existing doctor or contemplating a new one, there are several important factors worth tak-ing into account.

Screen teStSome women use an ObGyn in ad-

dition to a primary care physician; others put their total health care in the hands of their ObGyns. The first step is to figure out how in-volved in your health you’d like your doctor to be.According to a study conducted

by the Collaborative Ambulatory Research Network (CARN) be-tween 1995 and 2000, ObGyns are increasingly providing primary care services to their patents. From guid-ance in nutrition, infectious disease and hormone replacement therapy to psychosocial issues, genetic test-ing and general health concerns — osteoporosis, hypertension, heart disease even the flu — more ObG-yns are becoming well-versed in the variety of health issues that affect women.That’s no surprise to Rochelle Igri-

san, RN, MSN and director of wom-en’s Services at Providence Hospital, in Southfleld. “A woman is more than just a uterus,” she says. “Her physician needs to be concerned about her total health care.”Once you’ve selected the role you’d

like your ObGyn to occupy, Igrisan recommends considering your other special needs and interests. For many women, the gender of

the physician tops the list because they feel more comfortable with one over another, Race, culture and lan-guage should also be taken into ac-count, says Igrisan: “Sometimes be-cause of cultural beliefs — Muslim and Indian women, for example — a woman might feel more comfort-able with a physician from the same culture.”To accommodate patients, Provi-

dence’s women’s center offers physi-cians from a wide range of nation-alities.Consider, too, if you’re in need of

an ObGyn who specializes in areas such as fertility, natural childbirth or menopausal issues. Or perhaps your priorities are finding one who’s located near your home or office, open on weekends or accepts your insurance.

reSearch for two?If you’re pregnant or planning a

pregnancy find out which hospital your ObGyn practices at to deter-mine if that hospital’s methods and policies appeal to you. Providence, for example, conducts more than 3,800 births each year, and offers Ja-cuzzi tubs and large birthing balls as alternative methods of pain control during labor instead of routine IV’s and electronic fetal monitoring — which makes it difficult for moms in labor to get up or move around — Providence uses ultrasound Dop-pler enabling doctors to listen to the baby’s heartbeat while mom moves during labor if she desires. After the baby is born, visitation isn’t limited to dad: kids, friends and whomever mom wishes to see are welcome.Instead of keeping a new mom in

the hospital for a few days after birth,

the center allows mom and newborn to go home after 24 hours, and pro-vides a homecare nurse to visit on the second day. During a two-hour visit, the nurse will examine the mother, check her stitches, and en-sure she’s feeling well and comfort-able. The nurse will also check the baby’s weight and eating habits, and demonstrate cord care, baby bathing and breast feeding.If you’re a traditional person, a

more traditional hospital may suit you best; if you support innovation, however, you might explore hospi-tals with more cutting-edge philoso-phies — whatever you decide, tour the hospital your ObGyn is affiliated with to get a true sense of what your birthing experience will be and if it meets your expectations.

finding a fitFinding a doctor and hospital that

suit your preferences isn’t always something a woman can do through the yellow pages.“We formed a focus group to see

if we were meeting women’s needs, and what we found was that women wanted to speak to a woman, not just get referred to a doctor,” says Igrisan. The response inspired her to create a Nurse Navigator, a fe-male nurse who’s available by phone, email and Web site to assist women in finding a doctor who suits their specific needs, offer advice on prob-lems for which a doctor’s visit isn’t necessary and point them in the right direction when a visit is in order.Once you find an ObGyn who

seems to fit the bill, make an ap-pointment to meet with the doctor first — fully clothed. “Find out if you’re comfortable

in the surroundings,” Igrisan says. “Even if your friend gives you a rec-ommendation, check it out for your-self because a friend might value something you don’t.”

SELECT ANOBGYN


As spring draws near, the birds start to come out of hid-

ing and many people begin to turn their attention to gardening. Start-ing in January, mailboxes throughout America begin to be stuffed with seed catalogs.Although the perfect looking pic-

tures can make your mouth water, not everyone wishes to start their spring garden from seeds. There are many other options to consider when planning the garden of your dreams.In many cases you will have more

than one choice for a garden center in your area. Choosing the right one for you may be confusing. Ask yourself what features are im-

portant to you. It is simple to become familiar with the industry as long as you pay attention to a few key things.

HOW LONG HAVE THEY BEEN IN BUSINESS?The longer a garden center has been

in business, the more likely they are to have great service and offer qual-ity plants. Even if the greenhouse or garden

center has changed ownership, it is likely that there has been a continua-tion of business practices. While the length of time in business isn’t nec-essarily the only thing to be consid-ered, it is a good indication of sound business practices.Many times when a business is sold

the original owners stay on to pro-vide training to new employees and owners to help with a smooth transi-tion. This process of a smooth tran-sition can often be a good indication of good management as well.

IS THE GARDEN CENTER LOCAL OR NATIONAL?Sometimes this can be difficult to

determine. In many cases, garden centers may belong to a franchise and get their plants from other ar-eas while having a local management team. This can make it more difficult to have control over the final product that you may buy. A greenhouse that grows all of their

own plants from seeds has full con-trol over their inventory. The closer the plant is grown to where it will eventually be gardened, the better the end results will likely be.It is important to understand that

plants are shipped in very small con-tainers for long distances. This can cause the plants to be subject to more plant diseases, most of which won’t be apparent until the plant is already in your garden.

OPEN POLLINATED, GENETICALLY MODIFIED OR ORGANIC?Anyone who has spent any time dig-

ging in the dirt knows the meaning of these buzz words. Recently they have made it to the top of all garden-ing organizations.Open pollinated designates a seed or

plant that will reproduce itself purely if seed is properly saved from the fruit of the plant. An organic seed or plant has been produced without ar-tificial or chemical pesticides. Geneti-cally modified plants are created by laboratory technology that manipu-lates the plant’s genes. For example,

instead of mixing two different kinds of corn to create one that is more re-sistant to diseases, they may combine genes from corn and a totally unre-lated tomato plant. These modifica-tions do not happen naturally in the breeding process.People are very wary of genetically

altered seeds and plants. The truth is that there are many advantages to this type of plant. On commercial farms, this type of plant can give dis-tinct advantages over those that are not genetically modified. In a back-yard garden however, this is usually not necessary.When shopping at a garden cen-

ter, you should know what types of plants are being offered. Many will have identifying points listed on the tag. If not, you should check with the staff to get information. Gener-ally, commercial crops are more likely to have genetic modification done on them.There are many other points to

consider that will help you make the right decision about a garden center or greenhouse. All else being equal, spend some time visiting all of the options. You may find a combination from several provide you with the best results.It’s important to feel free to shop

around and compare prices. Cus-tomer service is also very important. Generally, gardeners are friendly and knowledgeable and always happy to give you pointers. You should find that the garden center you choose is informative and friendly.

ChOOSE AGArdENCENTEr

As spring drAws neAr, the birds stArt to come out of hiding And mAny people begin to turn their Attention to gArdening.


Come see us for beautiful one-of-a-kind Mother’s Day plants and flowers.

Come shop a true nursery.... We have over 4 acres of perennials, landscaping shrubs, and trees in stock and 6 greenhouses that we propagate and grow plants in. You won’t find a bigger selection of healthy plants at affordable prices so come see why thousands of

people in our region have shopped with us!

Thanks to everyone who has shopped with us over the past decade. We are a locally owned family business celebrating ten years in business. We are honored to provide a service to our community, and to be a source of relaxation for our customers. Our plants are

healthy and we only sell varieties that are suited for our climate. That means they’ll thrive in our Georgia conditions.

In other words,

“Our Plants Live...... or Die Trying”!

Looking for a unique Mother’s Day gift?

770.842.23456662 Holly Springs Road • Clermont, GA

Hours: Monday thru Friday from 8 am to 5 pm and Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm

Visit our website at www.fullbloomnursery.com for tips and advice on growing vegetables, herbs, flowers, and much more!

Full Bloom NurseryFull Bloom Nursery


The first thing is to find out what retirement communities are located in the area where

you or your relative(s) prefer to live. The weather is an important factor and the proximity to hospitals, doc-tors, pharmacies, retail malls/stores is important.It is a good idea to ride around to the

various retirement communities to get your first impression of the appear-ance, architecture and location. It is also good to check the internet Web site of each area retirement commu-nity. The Web site will provide key in-formation about the services that are offered and the accommodations.Other pertinent information may

be obtained from the Department of Human Resources Licensing and Survey reports. This information may be obtained via the Internet, at the local Department of Human Re-sources or at any retirement commu-nity that has a licensed nursing wing or assisted living unit. The Dunn and Bradstreet Financial rating, the State Nursing Home Association, The Bet-ter Business Bureau and Long-term-Care Ombudsman are four additional agencies where retirement community stability and historical information may be obtained.

interView with KeY StaffCall for an appointment and meet the

staff; each retirement community is run by an executive director and man-agers of multiple departments. These include nursing, marketing, dietary, housekeeping, laundry, social services, recreational activities, maintenance of the physical plant and the grounds, se-curity, business and transportation.Make an appointment with the direc-

tor of marketing or the admissions

coordinator.The marketing director will show

you around the property and intro-duce you to the staff and manage-ment who will answer any questions you may have. It is important to as-sess the length of employment of the executive director and key managers, their educational credentials, experi-ence and licenses.

toUr ProPertY, accoMModationSA tour of the retirement commu-

nity is imperative to assess the types and sizes of cottages, apartments and rooms associated with each level of care. Safety features, emergency re-sponse equipment and handicap ac-cessability are important features of the tour. The tour allows a potential resident to evaluate the size or space needed for their furnishings, the clos-ets and storage space.The cleanliness and maintenance or

upkeep of the property may also be assessed on the tour. Staff-resident interaction, social activities and resi-dents’ appearances may also be ob-served.

BecoMe inforMed aBoUt SerViceS, etc.During the initial and follow-up in-

terviews and tour, it is vital to be in-formed about the amenities, services and levels of care that are provided and included in the admission con-tract. It is imperative that a potential resident be advised about whether the retirement community is a buy-in or lease arrangement, the price, refund policy, pet policy, etc. All amenities such as meals, housekeeping and laun-dry/linen service, telephone, cable television, transportation and social

activities should be explained.A full service, multilevel continuum

of care retirement community offers levels of care that range from indepen-dent living in villas and apartments, to assisted living or personal care to skilled nursing care. It is preferable to move into a retirement community where a resident may “age in place” and not have to relocate to another property or facility if they should have changes in their condition or require personal assistance or nursing care. The social or recreational activ-

ity program should be assessed when making the decision about your future lifestyle. An activities or social cal-endar should be available for you to study. A varied program of activities offering mental or sensory stimulat-ing activities, physical activities and cultural entertainment should be in-cluded so that a resident has multiple daily options and may be as active as they choose to be.Examples of popular activities in-

clude bridge and other card games, movies, bingo, aerobic exercise class-es, exercise equipment for individual or group use, birthday parties, special theme parties and seasonal or holiday celebrations.Also, outings with provided trans-

portation that include tours of the area, lunches at local restaurants and trips to cultural events should be in-cluded in the social calendar. Arts and crafts classes should be available for those who enjoy creative pursuits.A transportation program should be

provided to assure transportation to doctor’s appointments and other es-sential pickups, deliveries or personal transportation to shop, obtain medica-tions and other essentials since many senior citizens choose to stop driving.

ChOOSE ArETIrEMENT COMMUNITY

the top five things you should Know..

❒ Find out whatretirementcommunities arelocated in the areawhere you or yourrelative(s) prefer to live.

❒. Interview key staff,including marketing,dietary, housekeeping,security andtransportationmanagers anddirectors, to name afew.

❒. Tour the property toassess the livingconditions, safetyfeatures andhandicap accessibility.

❒. Become informedabout services,amenities andcontinuum of care.

❒. Communicate with the residents, theirfamilies and friends.Plan an overnight stayat the facility.


3319 Thompson Bridge Road | Gainesville, GA678-207-2345 | www.holbrooklife.com

Our independent and assisted living solutions deliver value, enjoyment and freedom from the unexpected expenses that come with owning a home. Enjoy resort-style living with everything from restaurant dining to salon services, movies and a fi tness center on site for your complete convenience. We even offer a memory care neighborhood for residents facing the challenges of Alzheimer’s and other cognitive impairment.

Call TODAY for more information or to schedule a tour!

Find out what all the smiles are about; call or visit us online for more information about our vibrant adult community!

Relish RetirementWe discovered a surprisingly different assisted living community.


WHAT IS A CREDIT UNION?

A credit union is a cooperative fi-nancial institution, owned and

controlled by the people who use its ser-vices. These people are members. Credit unions serve groups that share some-thing in common, such as where they work, live, or go to church. Credit unions are not-for-profit, and exist to provide a safe, convenient place for members to save money and to get loans at reason-able rates.Credit unions, like other financial in-

stitutions, are closely regulated. The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), an agency of the federal gov-ernment, insures credit union deposit ac-counts up to $100,000.What makes a credit union different

from a bank or savings & loan? Like credit unions, these financial institutions accept deposits and make loans but un-like credit unions, they are in business to make a profit. Banks and savings & loans are owned by groups of stockholders whose interests include earning a healthy return on their investments.

FIVE WAYS TO FIND A CREDIT UNIONCredit unions are for everyone, but the

law places some limits on the people they may serve. A credit union’s charter defines its “field of membership,” which could be an employer, church, school, or community. Anyone who lives or works in a community, for example, is eligible to join a community-chartered credit union.If you don’t belong, here’s how to find

a credit union to join:1. Visit the internet for information on

credit unions near you.

2. Ask your family. One in three Ameri-cans belong to a credit union. Chances are you have a family member that uses credit union services. And most credit unions allow members’ families to join.3. Quiz your friends and neighbors.

Many credit unions have a “community” field of membership, serving a region defined by geography rather than by em-ployment or some other association. Ask friends in the community if they know of a credit union you may join.4. Read the yellow pages. Some credit

unions rarely advertise, so you might not know about them unless you look them up. A yellow pages display ad may state a credit union’s field of membership. If not, at least you’ll know what number to call to ask about membership eligibility.5. Contact the Credit Union National

Association. Dial (800)358-5710 or visit www.cuna.org and check their online da-tabase of credit unions.

CREDIT UNIONS VS. BANKSA credit union is a cooperative, not-for-

profit financial institution. It is owned and controlled by its members, and or-ganized to bring savings and give credit to those who belong. Proponents of credit unions say earnings are returned to members in the form of higher sav-

ings rates, lower loan rates, fewer fees, and expanded services.In contrast, a bank is a financial insti-

tution that accepts deposits and makes loans to corporations and individuals for a profit. A savings and loan institution is in business to accept deposits and make loans, primarily for first and second mortgages, at a profit.Credit unions see healthy returns on

investments in order to help their mem-bers, while other financial institutions send investment returns to their stock-holders.Credit unions give members a voice.

Members vote for a board of directors from the general membership.Directors serve on a voluntary basis

and hire a Chief Executive Officer, who in turn hires staff to manage the credit union. All members receive information on the state of the credit union, gener-ally in the form of newsletters and other periodicals, such as the credit union’s an-nual report.U.S. credit unions have a flexible, high-

ly organized cooperative network, the Credit Union System. The system works at the local, state, and national level.There are over 10,000 credit unions

throughout the country serving over 80 million members.

ChOOSE ACrEdIT UNION

importAntnotes❒ Credit unions offer many of the same services as banks, usually at better rates and terms: checking, consumer loans,mortgages, and investment accounts.

❒ Credit unions are not-for- profit, and exist first and foremost to serve their members.

❒ Credit union members are also owners. Memberselect a volunteer Board of Directors to strategically guide the organization.

A credit union is a cooperative, not-for-profit financial institution. It is

owned and controlled by its members, and organized to bring savings and give credit

to those who belong.


www.georgiasown.org


Hearing aids are not something anybody chomps at the bit

to go buy like the latest iPad or cell phone. But maybe they should be. Hearing loss occurs so gradually that most people wait several years after the loss first becomes a problem to even consider doing something. But early treatment of hearing loss has the potential to transform one’s life.The National Council on the Ag-

ing did a study with more than 2,000 people experiencing hearing loss, as well as the significant others of those with hearing loss, and found that people who decided to use hear-ing aids demonstrated impressive improvements in their social, emo-tional, psychological, and physical well-being. Specifically, hearing aid usage is positively related to many quality of life issues.

Hearing loss treatment was shown to improve:• Earning power • Communication in relationships • Intimacy and warmth in family re-

lationships • Ease in communication • Emotional stability • Sense of control over life events • Perception of mental functioning • Physical health

There are two different profession-als that can help people with their hearing needs. The Better Hearing Institute (BHI) defines them in this way:

Audiologists identify and assess disorders of the hearing and bal-ance systems of children and adults. Audiologists select, fit, and dispense amplification systems such as hear-

ing aids and related devices; pro-gram cochlear implants; and provide instruction, rehabilitation, and coun-seling services to enhance human communication. A graduate (doc-torate or master) degree is required for practice.

Hearing Instrument Specialists assess hearing and select, fit, and dispense hearing aids and related devices. They provide instruction, rehabilitation, and counseling in the use and care of hearing aids and related devices to enhance commu-nication. They must be licensed by the Secretary of State in the state in which they are practicing. A further certification for hearing aid special-

ists and audiologists is achieved by passing an exam from the National Board for Certification in Hearing Instrument Sciences.The website www.secondsenseh-

earing.com is a great resource for anyone looking for information on hearing healthcare and amplification devices. No matter the educational background or experience of the hearing healthcare provider (HHP) you choose to see, you should ex-pect to be treated with dignity and respect as the HHP focuses on your individual requests and needs. Af-ter all, it’s your quality of life they should be most concerned with and must select the best possible device for you.

BUY hEArING AIdS

Hearing Instrument Specialists assess

hearing and select, fit, and dispense hearing aids and related devices


Dr. Laura DennisonBoard Certified,

Doctor of Audiology

William DennisonHearing Instrument Specialist

Stan WarnerBoard Certified

Hearing Instrument Specialist

located between the hospital and AT&T, next to Jimmy John’s Subs

770-872-0778333 Jesse Jewell Parkway


Doctor of Audiology







Doctor of Audiology







Doctor of Audiology







Doctor of Audiology







Doctor of Audiology







Doctor of Audiology






www.hearGA.com


Do you find yourself unable to sit still to watch your favorite evening program, or unable to stay seated during your vacation flight, or not able to fall asleep due to leg discomfort or jerk-ing? If so, you may be among the 10 million adults in the United States with Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). In the past, RLS, was called Ekbom’s Syn-drome.

What are some of the symp-toms that might strongly sug-gests that this is your problem? The first and foremost symp-tom is experiencing an unpleas-ant, creepy crawling, jittery sen-sation in your legs that results in a very strong urge to move them.

This unpleasant sensation starts at rest and is characteristi-cally relieved by walking, pacing or at times by simply stretching or jiggling the legs.

These symptoms, at first, are hardly noted during the day and are felt primarily at night. Of-ten along with these sensations you may find that you have been told that you have “jerks” in your arms or legs while you sleep. The severity of these symptoms may range from an-noying and infrequent to dis-tressing and daily.

You may also want to question others in your family as RLS

runs in families in up to half of sufferers, and researchers have found sites on chromosomes for RLS.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO GET RELIEF?

If your symptoms are mild and infrequent, first try some life-style changes.

SOME COMMON CHANG-ES THAT HELP ARE: 1.) Avoid caffeine 2.) Cut back on alcohol and tobacco 3.) Try moderate exercise 4.) Try relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga 5.) Have good sleep hygiene 6.) Do activities that increase mental alertness in the evening 7.) Begin and end your day with a massage or muscle stretching

If, despite all the above practic-es, your symptoms are increas-ing and disrupting your life and sleep patterns, then referral to a physician who is knowledgeable in the diagnosis and treatment of more advanced RLS is indi-cated. The physician should be able to screen for related neu-rologic problems that could be making your RLS worse and guide you in the more advanced treatments that are sometimes necessary to control RLS.

dIAGNOSE rESTLESS LEG SYNdrOME


Gainesville

neuroloGy

Group, llC

1240 Jesse Jewell Pkwy., Suite 400Gainesville, GA 30501770-534-1117 │ 770-503-7285 (fax)www.gainesvilleneurology.com

2797

07 6

-19

dd

Top Row: Michael S. Baugh, M.D.; Davdatt V. Patel, NP-C.Bottom Row: Daniel L. Cobb, M.D., Dr. Clinton E. Branch, Jr., M.D., FAAN

Leading Board Certified Neurologists inNortheast Georgia Since 1979

•ALLphysiciansboardcertifiedinNeurology•ALLphysiciansholdacademicappointmentsatMedicalCollegeofGeorgia•ALLphysiciansdedicatedtoprovidingcompassionateandcomprehensiveneurologicalcare•ALLphysiciansdedicatedtotheteachingandtrainingoffuturephysicians

If you need a neurologic evaluation, ask your physician for a referral to Gainesville Neurology Group

or callour office at 770-534-7885for information and appointments.

Since1979Gainesville Neurology GrouphashelpedpatientsinNortheast Georgiawithneurologicproblems:

•Seizures•Parkinson’sDisease•Migraine•Neuropathy•Dementia

•Vertigo•MultipleSclerosis•MyastheniaGravis•SleepDisorders

Over 34 Years of Service to Northeast Georgia

Gainesville neuroloGy Group, llC


Tired of your contacts and glass-es? LASIK may be for you.

While LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) doesn’t always result in perfect vision, says the Eye Sur-gery Education Council (ESEC), it can allow people to more freely pur-sue their hobbies, physical activities and careers.It’s a lifetime investment — and

one with many benefits. In order, to successfully free yourself from contacts and glasses, it’s important to know what to expect, and to find an experi-enced surgeon whom you can trust with your windows to the world.

WHAT IS LASIK?The Food and Drug Administration

says LASIK is a procedure that permanently changes the shape of the cornea — the clear covering on the front of the eye that helps focus light to create images on your retina — by using an excimer laser. During the surgery, a knife is used to cut a flap in the cornea, revealing the middle section of the cornea (stroma). Pulses from a computer-controlled laser vaporize a portion of the stroma, says the FDA, and the flap is replaced. The result is corrected vision.The speed and development of the

computers that run the lasers is a huge advantage today. Lasers are much safer today than they used to be.

AM I A CANDIDATE?Patients can be 18 or 80 years old,

as long as they’re healthy. The ESEC says an ideal LASIK candidate is at least 18, with a stable contact or glasses prescription for at least two years; has sufficient corneal thickness; is affected by a common

vision problem; and doesn’t suffer from a disease (vision-related or otherwise) that could complicate the surgery.As with any surgery, there are risks

and complications to consider. Some patients can lose vision; develop glare, halos and/or double vision; be under- or over-treated, requiring additional treatment or the continued use of contacts or glasses; develop severe dry eye syndrome or have results diminish with age, according to the FDA.

FINDING A SURGEONBecome a critical consumer of

health care in your search for an experienced, qualified surgeon. Do your homework. Research Web sites about LASIK, such as www.lasikinstitute.org, and schedule consultations with a few surgeons. Where you feel comfortable is where you should go.But there’s no substitute for

experience: According to the ESEC, several studies have shown there’s a learning curve associated with the surgery. The more procedures a surgeon has done, the better he or she will beat it. A surgeon who’s done 30,000 surgeries, and has eight or nine years of experience is a lot better than getting a cheap fix.Check surgeon credentials — you’ll

want to go to a certified, licensed ophthalmologist who’s had extensive training in refractive surgery. The surgeon should also have manufacturer certification on lasers, which should be FDA-approved. Contact the American Board of Ophth-almology at www.abop.org, for information on certified surgeons in your area.

Interview possible surgeons to see who suits your preferences: Do you prefer going to a strictly refractive surgery center or a full-service ophthalmic practice? Do you feel comfortable with the surgeon, and his or her staff ? Is the facility comfortable and clean? Does the surgeon offer patient references?

WHAT TO ExPECTOnce you find a surgeon with whom

you feel comfortable, the first step is to schedule a preoperative evaluation, during which you’ll receive a comprehensive eye examination. You can’t wear soft contacts for two to seven days (depending on the type of lenses), or hard lenses for a minimum of four to eight weeks prior to the visit. The surgeon will perform a number of tests to determine if you’re a candidate.Many surgeons allow patients

to observe the procedure from a viewing room to get a better idea of what to expect.The surgery lasts approximately

15 minutes and, on average, costs $4,000 for both eyes. Discomfort is minimal and you should be able to get back to normal life within a few days. And with the technology today, many walk out with 20/20 vision or better — and no contacts or glasses in sight.Remember that perfect vision isn’t

guaranteed. About 56 percent of patients achieve results of 20/20 or better, and more than 90 percent achieve 20/40 or better according to the ESEC. You may still need to wear glasses or lenses for some activities such as reading. Ask your surgeon what results he or she plans to achieve with your eyes.

ChOOSE ALASIK SUrGEON

the eye surgery education council recommends asking surgeons these questions when considering lAsiK:

❒ How many LASlK procedures have you performed?

❒ Do you provide a list of patients I can contact?

❒ What’s your complication rate?

❒ What laser do you use? Is it FDA-approved?

❒ What pre-operative diagnostic tests will you perform?

❒ May I observe a surgery?

❒ Are you licensed and board certified? Are you a member of any professional associations?

❒ What’s your re-treatment rate?


2061 Beverly Road • Gainesville, GA 30501 • GainesvilleEye.com • 770.532.4444

From LASIK vision correction to cataract surgery, Gainesville Eye Associates is the region’s number one destination for laser eye surgery.

The physicians of Gainesville Eye Associates are highly skilled and experienced in state-of-the-art laser surgery to improve the quality of vision in patients from young adults to senior citizens. The exacting nature of laser surgery offers superior outcomes in a safe procedure with fast recovery times.

LASIK treats vision problems like near-sightedness, far-sightedness and astigmatism using a precise, computer-controlled Excimer laser. Gainesville Eye Associates customizes each treatment plan based on your desired vision goals and outcomes. We are also the rst practice in Georgia to perform breakthrough bladeless laser cataract surgery . . . one of the safest, most accurate and effective procedures performed today.

Stephen J. Farkas, M.D. Jack M. Chapman Jr., M.D. Clayton G. Blehm, M.D. Lori C. Lebow, M.D. S. Michael Veach, O.D.

For laser eye surgery from LASIK to cataracts, consult Northeast Georgia’s #1 specialists.

facebook.com/GainesvilleEye @GainesvilleEyeyoutube.com/GainesvilleEyeAssoc

Hear what some of our patients say about LASIK:

“ Freedom and vision are two of the most important privileges in life. This surgery offered me both.“

“ Thank you for my new eyesight! As I walked out of surgery, I could read the magazines on the table. I knew I had made the right decision.”

For convenience and exible payments, ask about our Care Credit program for special interest-free nancing — and get the care you need today!

in Northeast Georgia

the #1 Laser Eye Surgeons

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The need for information de-struction is a fact of life in today’s business world, and

every employer has a responsibility to provide guidance and information to employees on what needs to be done.

Every business discards information on a regular basis. The challenge is to ensure that information is protected from unauthorized access. This in-cludes phone messages, daily transac-tion reports, customer lists, business records, old floppy discs, computer CDs and even old computers. If they are not properly destroyed, the infor-mation they contain can bring harm to everyone involved, including em-ployees, shareholders, customers and the business owner or manager.

It is inescapable. Every working day, employees handle and discard infor-mation that should be destroyed. Be-low are some tips that every employ-er needs on how best to address this important new fact of business life:

Not talking to employees about information destruction can lead to misconceptions and problems. If they don’t receive their guidance

on information destruction from you, where will they get it? By word of mouth from people who don’t have their best interests at heart? From others who don’t know what they are talking about? If you don’t provide the guidance, the wrong per-son might and everyone will suffer the consequences.

Talking to your employees about proper information destruction procedures shows that you care. Providing the legally required writ-

ten direction demonstrates to em-ployees and regulators that proper data destruction is a priority within the organization. When employers avoid the responsibility to provide proper guidance on information de-struction, they are sending a message that it is not important and that they don’t really care. Show employees you do care by giving them the guid-ance they need.

Talking about information destruction protects employees and gives them a healthier perspective. Improper information destruction

practices create an unhealthy situa-tion. Employees instinctively know that it is not right to put sensitive information at risk. Tolerating inap-propriate behavior by not providing proper guidance effectively endorses that behavior, leaving employees feeling bad about their work environ-ment.

A bad decision could affect careers and hurt your organization. The consequences of casually dis-

carding information without the proper training could cost your or-ganization a lot of money, time and embarrassment. Employees who are not properly trained to utilize the organization’s information destruc-tion policies and procedures not only put the organization at risk, but also themselves and their associates.

Your organization’s reputation is also at stake. One of the most troublesome as-

pects of improper data disposal is the harm that it can do to your or-ganization’s reputation. Studies have shown that customers are far less likely to do business with an organi-zation when they fail to protect data. New laws now require that both the authorities and the media be in-formed of data breaches. In today’s world, reputation is everything. Pro-viding the proper direction regard-ing information destruction protects your organization’s reputation.

Not every shredding service takes security seriously. You should require that the service you choose screens its employees, has the proper insur-ance and prevents unauthorized ac-cess to the material before and after it is shredded. Ask for documenta-tion of this before you hire a shred-ding service provider. Making sure you are dealing with a reputable firm with the property security in place is of the utmost importance.

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With the home improve-ment boom show no signs of slowing down,

many home owners are taking a new look at metal roofs.Until recently, the term “metal roof ’

referred to the old vertical-seam roof — the kind you’d see covering barns or commercial structures. But that’s all changed, says Frank Farmer, president of American Roofs Inc., in Flushing.Today’s metal roofs — made of alu-

minum, steel or copper — are stamped out in presses to imitate the looks of cedar shake shingles, clay tile or slate.“Anything you see in a traditional

roof can be mimicked a metal roof ’ Farmer says.And they’re perfect for remodeling

projects: Farmer says 90 percent of his company’s work is in the renova-tion market. Metal roofs offer tex-ture and definition, and give today’s homes “a very rich look.”However, the beauty of a metal

roof is more than skin deep. It’s good looking, strong, durable, nearly weatherproof and can literally last a lifetime.

A LONG LIFEWhile the average metal roof has

a higher initial cost than traditional roofs, you can expect metal alterna-tives to last a minimum of two to three time longer, according to the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA).An asphalt roof begins to deterio-

rate as soon as it’s exposed to nor-mal weather, other roofing materi-als (wood shingle, shake and tile) all have their own weather-related prob-lems. ‘With these roofs, replacement is usually necessary in eight to 12 years,” says Farmer.A metal roof, however, will never

decompose, and can easily last 40 to

60 years — or more, Farmer says. The oldest aluminum roof in the world was installed in 1880 on the chief sec-retary’s office building in Sydney, Aus-tralia, and it’s still in good condition. The aluminum cap on the Washing-ton Monument, in place since 1884, looks like it was installed yesterday.In other words, you can safely con-

sider a metal roof a permanent fixture.

LONG-TERM SAVINGSBecause they’re so durable, metal

roofs offer long-term cost savings and add to the resale value of your home. A metal roof is practically maintenance-free — all home own-ers need to do is occasionally hose it down from the ground.In addition, consumers are pleas-

antly surprised to find aluminum roofs reflect the sun’s rays, resulting in lower energy bills. “An aluminum roof will reduce air conditioning costs by a minimum of 34 percent,” says Farmer.

NO NOISEHome owners get another surprise

when they find how noise-free a met-al roof can be. When installed with solid sheathing, a metal roof will si-lence noise from rain, hail and bad weather as well as, if not better than, any other roofing material. “The tone of the sound is slightly higher,” says Farmer. “But we’ve had no noise complaints, ever.”

WEATHER RESISTANTA metal roof can withstand decades

of abuse from any kind of extreme weather — from high winds and heavy snow to hailstorms and wild-fires. Metal roofing has a 120-mph wind rating, meaning it can survive a very strong tornado, says the MRA.

In cold climates, a metal roof ’s heat-reflective quality allows it to shed snow, which protects the structural integrity of the root. And it can elim-inate ice damming at the eaves, so water can’t back up and collect under the roof, or leak into your home.“Metal roofs will not peel, crack or

blister,” says Farmer. ‘There are no footholds for moss or fungus. And every rain just washes the roof.”

EARTH FRIENDLYNot only metal roofing good for

homes, it’s good for the environ-ment. The high recycled content of metal roofs — most have recycled content of anywhere from 25 to 95 percent, according to the Metal Building Manufacturers Association — makes them superior to asphalt-based products.Because a metal roof can often be

installed directly over an existing roof without tearing off what’s already there, metal roofing helps reduce shingle waste. The National Associa-tion of Homebuilders notes that 20 billion pounds of asphalt shingles are dumped into U.S. landfills every year.

LIGHTWEIGHTMRA figures show a typical metal

roof is 50 percent lighter than an asphalt shingle roof, and 75 percent lighter than concrete tile, fiber ce-ment shakes and slate. With metal roofing, weight on a structure is nev-er an issue.Metal roofs may continue to be

the roof of choice for barns for many years to come. But more and more, home owners are recognizing the benefits of these durable, long-lasting, cost-effective roofs for their dwellings as well. HTG

KNOW IF A METAL rOOF FITS YOU hOME’S STYLE

determine if A metAl roof is right for your home:

❒ How much will a metal roof cost? The average cost for a metal roof is about two-and-a-half times the initial cost of a good asphalt roof, says Frank Farmer of American Roofs Inc. In other words, about $12,000 to $13,000. Metal roofs, however, offer long-term benefits by saving on maintenance, energy and replacement costs.

❒ How long will a metal roof last? The average replacement cycle for traditional roofs in the United States is 17 years, according to the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA). A metal roof, however, can last the lifetime of a house.

❒ Will a metal roof rust? Rust can be an issue along the edges of a steel roof. An aluminum roof, however, virtually eliminates the problem of rusting.

❒ Can a metal roof be installed over an existing roof? Metal roots are designed to be installed directly over worn-out asphalt, fiberglass or wood shingle roofs, usually without the need to tear off


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ChOOSE ONLINE AdVErTISING

extend YoUr reach throUgh the internet

Day by day, the Internet contin-ues to play a larger, more useful role in our daily lives. And savvy consumers are the most enthu-siastic and loyal visitors to local Web sites for news about their communities, entertainment and dining options, shopping alternatives and more. Adding a Web component to your adver-tising and marketing mix is es-sential to maximize your reach and deliver your messages to your target audience.Most important, those who use

the Internet for news updates throughout the day are better-educated,earn a higher median household income and are in their prime purchasing years. They represent the most cov-eted audience for advertisers, and they turn to the Internet for reliable, timely information when making purchasing deci-sions — whether that decision is for durable goods, gifts or en-tertainment.These Internet users continue

to be avid readers of the daily print newspaper. During the past week, nearly two-thirds of the visitors to a newspaper’s Web site also read a copy of the print edition. Furthermore,the Internet is a prime delivery ve-hicle for reaching a younger au-dience: Online newspaper visi-tors between the ages of 18 and 34 make up more than 40 per-cent of all viewers.The Internet is an advertising

medium that cannot be ignored — increasingly, it is a valuable

resource for advertisers’ most important audiences.Complementing your print ad-

vertising with apresence on Web contributes

to the success of your market-ing plans — day by day.

online adVertiSing ValUaBle

Media researchers have exam-ined the benefits to advertisers who add online spending to their marketing campaigns. In one study, a consumer pack-aged goods company experi-enced an increase in important metrics such as brand aware-ness, brand attributes and purchase intent following an increase in online advertising. The study from the Advertis-ing Research Foundation, the Interactive Advertising Bureau and Microsoft Corps’ MSN network also described a re-lationship between improved branding effectiveness and higher online frequency.Newspaper sites heavily pro-

mote their “marketplace” sec-tions, which offer an array of display, classified and online-only advertising. Site visitors can search for a particular mer-chant, product or service. The newspapers promote the ben-efits of marketplace sections using print and online promo-tional campaigns.

online adVertiSing’SStrengthS

During the past eight years, newspapers’ print and online

sales teams have consulted with local advertisers to develop pro-grams that raise awareness and increase foot traffic. Advertis-ing in the newspaper’s Web site and e-mail newsletters:

—Raises awareness and rein-forces your overall marketing efforts.

—Reaches a highly educated, high-income audience.

—Adds frequency and interac-tive elements to your in-print newspaper promotions.

—Expands the geographic boundaries of your advertising.

—Reaches online news view-ers during the workday when they are making plans for lunch, shopping excursions and eve-nings out.

—Offers the ability to link to your Web site(s), which allows you to provide much more de-tailed information than is avail-able in traditional advertising.

—Advertises your product or service on the Internet for a fraction of the cost of conven-tional advertising methods.

—Allows you to update prod-ucts, prices and promotional messages in minutes, rather than having to wait for the next day’s paper.

—Includes color for no extra charge.

SOURCE: National Newspaper Association


Telephone: 770-532-1234 • Fax: 770-532-8187Toll Free: 1-800-395-5005www.gainesvilletimes.comOffice Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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When you are ready to buy a car, chances are that you will need a loan to complete the transaction. Gener-ally, there are two options available to you if you decide to finance your car: A loan through the bank or credit union, or a loan through the dealer-ship.

Getting a Car LoanThe process for getting a car loan

is similar to the process used for al-most any other loan. You will need a credit check, and might need proof of income (although this isn’t always necessary). Your credit score is an important part of your car shopping process when you want to lease or fi-nance your car, since it will determine what interest rate you get, as well as how much you are able to borrow.

As you fill out the loan application, you will need to provide your Social Security Number (so your credit file can be pulled), address, phone num-ber, income, employer information (this includes address and phone number), and information about how long you have lived in your cur-rent residences, as well as whether you rent or own. Your application will also include how much other debt you have, and your payment ob-ligations.

Bank/Credit Union FinancingOne of the best things you can do

prior to shopping for a car is to re-ceive pre-approval from a bank or credit union. During this process, the bank or credit union checks your credit, and other factors, and decides

how much you are eligible for. You receive a pre-approval document, and can then use it as you look for a car.

An advantage to bank or credit union financing is that you have the ability to shop for cars from private sellers, as well as from dealers. You have more options when sellers see that you have access to the funds you need to buy a vehicle. Additionally, with pre-approval for bank or credit union financing, you can compare that offer with what is available from the dealer.

Dealership FinancingMany people are surprised to learn

that a large portion of dealership profits come from the loans they originate for car buyers. While there are dealerships that also provide the financing (and receive the benefit from charging interest), a large num-ber of dealerships act more like loan brokers than lenders.

In some cases, dealerships send your information to a variety of financing partners, and different offers come

back. If this is the case, the dealer re-ceives a commission, while someone else services your loan. Some deal-ers have a relationship with only one finance company, while others have relationships with several.

Sometimes, though, dealer financ-ing can be a good option. If there are special incentives, it’s possible to get a deal on a loan originated through the dealer. You need to be careful, though, since special deals can disap-pear if you pay late.

Compare the TwoIt’s best to compare the two be-

fore making a decision. If you have a few credit inquiries within a short period of time, it is clear that you are shopping around for a loan rate, and your credit score won’t drop too much. Try to get pre-approval for a car loan before you go to the deal-er, and then compare the financial deal offered by the dealerships with what is offered by the bank or credit union. When you follow this plan, you have a better chance of getting the best deal for you.

GET ACAr LOAN

Many people are surprised to learn that a large portion of dealership profits come from the loans they

originate for car buyers.

page 23 The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, April 21, 2013How to Guide Ad_Layout 1 4/18/13 3:14 PM Page 1

www.hallcocu.org

pictured (l to r): Jacquelyn Stone, MD;Jason Bailey, MD; Greg Martin, MD,FACOG; and Jameela Harper, MD

Welcoming the neWest Addition to our FAmily

NORThEasT GEORGIa PhYsICIaNs GROuPLaKEsIDE OB/GYN

678-450-4757 | www.ngpg.org/lakeside-obgyn

Services include:

• Comprehensive care for women of all ages

• Routine and high risk obstetric care

• Comprehensive surgery for pelvic prolapse andincontinence

• Evaluation and treatment of pelvic pain disorders and endometriosis

• Infertility evaluation and treatment

• Minimally invasive hysterectomies

It is tradition to celebrate exciting new additions in our lives. That’s why it only seemsfitting that Northeast Georgia Physicians Group (NGPG) invites you to join us as wewelcome Lakeside OB/GYN to the group. With the addition of OB/GYN services, NGPGcan ensure a future of exceptional care, every step of the way.

Offering services at two locations:Gainesville & Braselton


How To April 2013

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