How To June 2013

How-ToGUIDE

How-ToHOW TO ��

JUNE 16, 2013

How-ToSelect An OBGYN

Choose A Retirement Community

Choose A Credit Union

Buy Hearing Aids

Diagnose Restless Leg Syndrome

Choose A Lasik Surgeon

Choose A Mortgage Lender

Choose Online Advertising

Get A Car Loan

PAGE 2 The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, June 16, 2013

TABLE OF CONTENTS

HOW TO CHOOSE A CREDIT UNION

HOW TO CHOOSE A LASIK SURGEON

HOW TO BUY HEARING AIDS

HOW TO DIAGNOSE RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME

HOW TO CHOOSE A MORTGAGE LENDER

HOW TO CHOOSE A RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

HOW TO GET A CAR LOAN

HOW TO SELECT AN OBGYN

HOW TO CHOOSE ONLINE ADVERTISING

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PAGE 18

June 16, 2013


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-profi t, 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 fi nancial 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 fi nancial institutions accept deposits and make loans but un-like credit unions, they are in business to make a profi t. Banks and savings & loans are owned by groups of stockholders whose interests include earning a healthy return on their investments.

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

law places some limits on the people they may serve. A credit union’s charter defi nes its “fi eld 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 fi nd

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” fi eld of membership, serving a region defi ned 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 fi eld 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-

profi t fi nancial 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 fi nancial insti-

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

investments in order to help their mem-bers, while other fi nancial 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 Offi cer, 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 fl exible, 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.


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 benefi ts. In order, to successfully free yourself from contacts and glasses, it’s important to know what to expect, and to fi nd 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 fl ap 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 fl ap 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 suffi cient 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, qualifi ed 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 fi x.Check surgeon credentials — you’ll

want to go to a certifi ed, licensed ophthalmologist who’s had extensive training in refractive surgery. The surgeon should also have manufacturer certifi cation on lasers, which should be FDA-approved. Contact the American Board of Ophth-almology at www.abop.org, for information on certifi ed 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 fi nd a surgeon with whom

you feel comfortable, the fi rst 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?


Gainesville • Braselton • CorneliaGainesvilleEye.com • 770.532.4444

From LASIK vision correction to cataract surgery, Gainesville Eye Associates is the region’s 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.

Laser eye surgery for patients of all ages — from LASIK to cataracts.

facebook.com/GainesvilleEye @GainesvilleEyeyoutube.com/GainesvilleEyeAssoc

Here’s what some of our patients say:

“Before, I was chained to reading glasses…With just one eye done, two days after my surgery I was able to read a menu for the rst time in maybe ve to seven years.

“It’s the best thing I have ever done in my life for myself.”

From LASIK to Cataracts, THE Laser Eye SurgeryTeam for Northeast Georgia

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

www.GainesvilleEye.com


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 fi rst 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 signifi cant 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. Specifi cally, 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) defi nes them in this way:

Audiologists identify and assess disorders of the hearing and bal-ance systems of children and adults. Audiologists select, fi t, and dispense amplifi cation 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 Specialistsassess hearing and select, fi t, 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 certifi cation for hearing aid special-

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

earing.com is a great resource for anyone looking for information on hearing healthcare and amplifi cation 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







Do you fi nd yourself unable to sit still to watch your favorite evening program, or unable to stay seated during your vacation fl ight, 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 fi rst 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 fi rst, are hardly noted during the day and are felt primarily at night. Of-ten along with these sensations you may fi nd 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, fi rst 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

GAINESVILLE

NEUROLOGY

GROUP, LLC

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

Michael S. Baugh, M.D., Clinton E. Branch, Jr., M.D., FAAN, Daniel L. Cobb, M.D.

Leading Board Certifi ed Neurologists inNortheast Georgia Since 1979

• ALL physicians board certifi ed in Neurology• ALL physicians hold academic appointments at Medical College of Georgia• ALL physicians dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive neurological care• ALL physicians dedicated to the teaching and training of future physicians

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

or call our offi ce at 770-534-7885 for information and appointments.

Since 1979 Gainesville Neurology Group has helped patients in Northeast Georgia with neurologic problems:

• Seizures• Parkinson’s Disease• Migraine• Neuropathy

• Dementia• Vertigo• Multiple Sclerosis• Myasthenia Gravis

Over 30 Years of Service to Northeast Georgia

www.gainesvilleneurology.com


When choosing a mortgage lender, the fi rst thing one usually thinks of

is getting the lowest interest rate available. While interest rates are important, there are other notable considerations, such as choosing a lender you can trust and work with.

THE BEST MORTGAGEAll lenders offer a variety of home fi nanc-

ing options. A good lender will work with you to fi nd what best suits your individual circumstances.Most loan rates will not differ widely.

However, differences in loan structure can result in large savings of costs to you. Loans may differ in such items as: Term (length of the loan), prepayment options or penalties, processing fees, no-credit fees, etc.While most mortgages are offered for

terms of 15 and 30 years, other terms may be available. Keep in mind that the shorter the term, the less you will pay for your house over the life of the loan. How-ever, the shorter the term, the higher your monthly payment will be.Your lender can help you decide which

loan arrangements are best for you.• Build a list of lenders. Talk to people

you know who have bought or refi nanced a home recently. Check with local real estate professionals. Or simply look in the yellow pages under “Mortgages.”• Talk to a loan offi cer. Call or visit the

lenders on your list. Get a feel for what it will be like to work with them, and how they approach your needs. If you’re still uncertain, ask for references from recent home buyers like yourself. Ask about their experience with a particular lender.• Compare rates for similar loans. Among

the things you’ll want to discuss with pro-spective lenders are the rates they offer on mortgages. But when comparing rates between lenders, be sure the rates are for comparable loans — and remember to in-

clude fees and other costs so you’re really comparing apples to apples.It is important to verify that your lender is

a member of a state Mortgage Bankers As-sociation. This is a trade association made up of members engaged, either directly or indirectly, in the mortgage lending business. Each member is bound by a strict code of ethics to encourage the highest standards of conduct in dealing with the public and other members. The purposes of the asso-ciation can be summed up as follows:• Encourage among its members sound

and ethical business practices in making, marketing and servicing of real estate loans.• Inform the members of changes in gov-

ernment laws affecting real estate.• Provide education to the membership

and the public on real estate matters.In a continued effort to provide consum-

er education and assure compliance by all members to the canon of ethics, an ethics committee is in place to provide assistance to you. If you have a complaint or need general information, you can reach theMortgage Bankers Association of Geor-

gia at 912-743-6255.

PRE-QUALIFICATIONBefore you start house hunting, it is wise

to determine your price range. This can be done through the simple process of pre-qualifi cation.To become pre-qualifi ed, a lender or Real-

tor will use fi nancial information you pro-vide to estimate the maximum mortgage you should be able to obtain. The process doesn’t guarantee that your mortgage ap-plication will be accepted, but it does help you narrow your search to homes you can afford.

INTEREST RATE PROTECTIONWhen applying for a loan you will be given

an option to “lock in” a rate, thereby guar-anteeing your interest rate during the pro-cessing and underwriting of your loan. It is

wise to obtain a written, rather than verbal interest rate agreement, if you choose this option.The other option is to let the rate “fl oat,”

allowing the fi nal rate and fees to be set nearer the settlement date. This means your rate would be subject to market conditions at the time/date that your rate is locked in prior to the closing.

LOAN APPLICATION PROCESSThe Loan Offi cer will complete the ap-

plication form and collect all information necessary to begin processing the loan.Discuss the loan program and terms best

suited to your fi nancial needs with the Loan Offi cer. Then the Loan Processor will veri-fy your loan application information.The Loan Processor assembles your docu-

mentation for submission and fi nal risk ap-proval to the Underwriter, who then for-wards your package to a Closer to prepare the closing documents. If denied, a letter outlining the reasons for denial is issued to you.

LOAN CLOSINGWhen the lender approves your loan, it is

time to close.Closing the loan and transferring title to

the property are the legal procedures that are handled by a real estate attorney.

SUMMARYAs you can see in this brief outline, ob-

taining a mortgage can be a lengthy and complex process. Along the way, there are many opportunities for problems and mis-understandings.Select a lender in whom you can have con-

fi dence and trust, one you can depend on to help you make decisions for your long-term benefi t. Taking time to research the lenders in your area just may prove to be the most valuable investment you will make towards the purchase of a new home to achieve with your eyes.

CHOOSE AMORTGAGE LENDER

THE TOP FIVETHINGS YOUSHOULDKNOW ...

1. All lenders offer a variety of home financing options. They will work with you to find your best choice.

2. Most lenders use certain formulas to determine how much mortgage to offer you.

3. Not all interest rates or mortgage loan programs are equal.

4. Build a list of lenders.Talk to Builders, Realtors,Attorneys and other professionals in the industry to check a lender’s reputation for good service, as well as their level of experience and trustworthiness.

5. Members of theMortgage BankersAssociation of Georgia subscribe to a canon of ethics. Verify that your lender is a member of the local or state MortgageBankers Association.


With an introductory 1% APRfor the �rst 12-months,

you can’t a�ord not to put“1” to work for you.

Call or visit us today to seehow our home equity line

can save you money!

Important Rate and Disclosure Information about our 10-Year Home Equity Interest Only plan (the “Plan”).

The home equity line has a 10-year draw period and a 15-year repayment period. The introductory APR of 1% is valid on new property lines opened on June 3, 2013. The introductory 1% APR is in e�ect for the �rst twelve (12) months of the initial loan date and is applicable on all draws made within that period of time. The introductory 1% APR will expire on all balances on the 365th day of the line opening date. The borrower will pay 1% APR the �rst year and APR equal to prime plus margin for the remaining 24 years. It will be interest only payments during the �rst 10 years and then fully amortizing over the remaining 15 years. Any balance remaining after the introductory 1% APR promotion shall accrue interest at the standard rate(s) and margin(s) as described in your Equity Line agreement and below.

The APR is variable and may change daily after the initial 12-month introductory period, but will never exceed 16.00%. The APR is based on the value of an index plus a margin. The index is the Prime Rate as published in the Wall Street Journal. Prime Rate means the highest per annum “Prime Rate” of interest as published from time to time by the Wall Street Journal in its “Money Rates” listings. The current Wall Street Journal Prime Rate is 3.25% as of June 3, 2013. The margin is based upon the information you provide us, the amount of your credit line, the property value, your credit history, the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, and other credit criteria we established for this o�er. The initial discounted annual percentage rate will be in e�ect for 12 months directly following the origination of the equity line and is not based on the index and margin used for later rate adjustments.

When the borrower maintains a checking account and debit card with United Community Bank there are no bank closing costs for lines between $10,000 and $100,000. Lines between $100,001 and $250,000 will pay $150 in closing costs and lines between $250,001 and $500,000 will pay $450 in closing costs. Lines must close using our “Quick Close” product in order to qualify for stated closing costs (loan origination fee). Borrower pays all mortgage recording taxes for Georgia and Tennessee properties, which range from $10 to $1,500. Insurance on the property that secures your account is required. Flood insurance may also be required. Normal credit criteria apply. Subject to credit approval.

If a qualifying checking account and debit card are not in force by the borrower at the time of the loan closing, additional fees up to $2,500 will be paid by the borrower to cover all required closing costs and recording taxes. Additionally, an annual fee of $100 will be assessed for the duration of the line without a qualifying checking account and debit card at United Community Bank.

Except where prohibited by law, if you close your account or reduce your credit line limit during the �rst three years, you will be charged a $500 prepayment penalty unless you are re�nancing your loan with United Community Bank.

Receive a credit at loan closing (up to $500) to o�set a third-party lender’s early closing fee when you make an initial advance on your new Equity Line at United Community Bank to payo� your existing home equity line balance of at least $10,000 with that third-party lender (payo�s less than $10,000 are not eligible for the closing credit). Early closing fee must be assessed and identi�ed by third-party lender through its payo� procedure in order to receive the credit at loan closing.

O�er available only for owner occupied, single-family residences. Not valid on manufactured homes. United Community Bank must be in a valid �rst- or second-lien position.Exclusions and limitations apply. United Community Bank’s 35-Month Home Equity Line is ineligible for this program. Subject to change without notice.

Check with your tax advisor on the tax deductibility of home equity interest. Available in select markets only. NMLS #421841 Member FDIC | Copyright © 2013 United Community Bank

1

2

APRfor 12 months1

With an introductorAs low asIntroductory

APRVariable rate thereafter2

ucbi.com/heloc

OAKWOOD3785 Mundy Mill Road

770-287-8976

GAINESVILLE2157 Sandridge Court

770-534-1165

GAINESVILLE351 Jesse Jewell Parkway

770-531-3191CLERMONT

5172 Cleveland Highway770-983-2593

MURRAYVILLE5504 Thompson Bridge Rd.

770-535-8642

www.ucbi.com/heloc


The fi rst thing is to fi nd 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 fi rst 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.

T

CHOOSE ARETIREMENT COMMUNITY

THE TOP FIVE THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW..

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

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

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

4. Become informedabout services,amenities andcontinuum of care.

5. 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!

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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 fi nance 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 fi ll out the loan application, you will need to provide your Social Security Number (so your credit fi le 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 fi nancing 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 fi nancing, 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 profi ts come from the loans they originate for car buyers. While there are dealerships that also provide the fi nancing (and receive the benefi t 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 fi nancing 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 fi nance company, while others have relationships with several.

Sometimes, though, dealer fi nanc-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 fi nancial 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

When you are ready to buy a car,

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

originate for car buyers.

PAGE 15 The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, June 16, 2013How to Guide Ad_Layout 1 4/18/13 3:14 PM Page 1

www.hallcocu.org


Ask yourself a personal ques-tion: Why did you select your Ob-Gyn? Maybe she was your mother’s ObGyn. Maybe his or her offi ce 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 fi rst step is to fi gure 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 fl u — 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 Southfl eld. “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 fi nding one who’s located near your home or offi ce, open on weekends or accepts your insurance.

RESEARCH FOR TWO?If you’re pregnant or planning a

pregnancy fi nd 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 diffi cult 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 affi liated 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 fi nding a doctor who suits their specifi c 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 fi nd an ObGyn who

seems to fi t the bill, make an ap-pointment to meet with the doctor fi rst — 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.”

Ask yourself a personal ques- like your ObGyn to occupy, Igrisan

SELECT ANOBGYN


pictured (l to R): Greg Martin, MD, FACOG; Sherry Nored, RN,CNM; Amber French, DO; Jacquelyn Stone, MD; Jameela Harper,MD; Amy Helton, RN, CNM; and Jason Bailey, MD, FACOG

now seeing patients in dawsonville & dahlonega

NoRthEast GEoRGIa physICIaNs GRoupLaKEsIDE oB/GyN

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

•Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy

Jason Bailey, MD, FACOG; Greg Martin, MD, FACOG; Jacquelyn Stone, MD; Jameela Harper, MD;and the staff of Northeast Georgia Physicians Group (NGPG) Lakeside OB/GYN welcome AmberFrench, DO; Amy Helton, RN, CNM; Sherry Nored, RN, CNM; and the staff of Crown MountainWomen’s Health to the practice. With more than nine years experience in the North Georgia area, Dr Frenchis proud to be joining the group and continuing to provide obstetrics and gynecologic services to the area.

“Our philosophy willremain the same, to treat thepatient as a whole,encompassing traditionaland complimentary medicineto provide exceptional carethroughout a woman’s life.”

Amber French, DO

For more information or to schedule anappointment at one of our four locations call:

Braselton - 770-219-9300 Dawsonville - 706-216-2345

Dahlonega - 706-864-3400 Gainesville - 770-219-9300

www.ngpg.org/lakeside-obgyn

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 traffi c. 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



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How To June 2013