October 2024 Family Owned & Operated Since 1974 • www.NomisPublications.com • 1-800-321-7479 Previously Published as the YB News ... Still the Place for Your News! News FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NOMIS PUBLICATIONS, INC. CELEBRATING OUR FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY 8570 FOXWOOD CT Youngstown, Ohio 44514 Holt Memorial Chapel Celebrates 100 Years HARRISON,AR— Holt Memorial Chapel is proudly celebrating its 100-year anniversary this year. The funeral home was founded in 1924 by Luther Clay “LC” Holt. LC was originally a teacher and grocer, but he went into the funeral industry and purchased the RD Cline Furniture and Undertaking Company. Even during the hardships of the Great Depression, he expanded the business and ensured that families received dignified care. To assist the community during this difficult time, he established the Boone County Burial Association, which continues to support thousands of members today. In 1935, LC built the original funeral home, which was located on North Vine Street, adjacent to his family home. He understood financial difficulties and often accepted bartered Owners, John and Jackie Conner and Phillip and Rachel Collie goods as payment, so no family was turned away. After LC’s death in 1956, his grandson, Patrick Ragan, took over. In 1973, the business was renamed to its current name and moved to Capps Road, where it is today. Patrick and his wife Glenna Jones Ragan continued to run the funeral home Continued on page A2 720-583-1886 info@duncanstuarttodd.com www.duncanstuarttodd.com SINCE 1991 Now In Stock! NFDA International Convention & Expo Pre-Convention Highlights Begin on Page A13 Classified Ads Shipping Directory Index of Advertisers
Page A2 October 2024 Published monthly by: Nomis Publications, Inc. PO Box 5159, Youngstown, OH 44514 1-800-321-7479 • fax 1-800-321-9040 www.NomisPublications.com info@NomisPublications.com Subscription: United States $30.00 - Canada/Mexico $60.00 - Outside North America $75.00 Circulation 21,000 per issue. Deadline for Press Releases: 5th of the Previous month. Advertising: Display Ad rates sent upon request. Classified and Shipping Directory rates published in each issue. All advertising must be received by the 5th of the previous month. Due to the vast amount of sources, the publisher is not responsible for the content of any news articles or advertisements. Nor is the publisher responsible for any loss of revenue by failure to insert an advertisement. The contents of any advertisement submitted for publication are only the publisher’s responsibility if the error is made by the publisher’s typesetting department, and then only to the extent of the typesetting charges. Advertisers are responsible for adhering to individual state regulations regarding advertising. The contents of any news article submitted for publication is subject to editing and is published at the sole discretion of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any news article or advertisement. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced, in whole or part, without the exclusive consent of Nomis Publications, Inc. Editor: Margaret (Peggy) Rouzzo © 2024 by Nomis Publications, Inc. ISSN 1944-1126 Funeral Home & Cemetery News online at www.NomisPublications.com Online Directories US & International Funeral Homes • Supply Companies Cemeteries • Pet Memorialization Companies Trade Associations • Plus Much More... www.NomisPublications.com NOTICE The FUNERAL HOME AND CEMETERY NEWS is sent in two parts. Section A, which includes pages A1-A32 and Section B, which contains the Classified Advertising and consists of pages B1-B24. If you do not receive both sections please call 1-800-321-7479 or email info@nomispublications.com. Like @Nomis.Publications FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS 800-321-7479 ~ www. NomisPublications. com SEND US YOUR NEWS We welcome news of the industry Send us information on your firm today! FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS Need Help Putting Your Press Release Together? Call Peggy at 800-321-7479 ext. 220 email Peggy@NomisPublications.com fax 1-800-321-9040 mail PO Box 5159, Youngstown, OH 44514 Send us any press release related to your firm which would be of interest to your fellow industry professionals. All press releases are published free of charge and at the discretion of the publisher. Be sure to include any photographs. Staff additions... Staff promotions... Anniversaries... Apprenticeships... Remodeling... Moving... New Ideas... Community Service Projects... Graduates... Obituaries... etc. Columns Appropriate to Greatness by Alice Adams and Duane Hills..........................A26 Critical Thinking by Jon O’Hara.....................................................................A10 Embalming 101 by Wally Hooker......................................................................A8 HearseHub by Mike Jamar................................................................................B6 Klicker’s Krossword Korner.............................................................................B4 Last Writes by Jim Kurtz.................................................................................A22 Memoires des choix des Jacque by Kate Frediani-Gorman..........................B10 Musings with Marika by Marika McMeans......................................................A20 Not Just A Widow by Patty Desiderio.............................................................A24 Observations by Steven Palmer.....................................................................A12 Powerhouse Marketing With Welton by Welton Hong.....................................A6 Random Musings by Nancy Weil......................................................................A4 Monthly Features Association News.......................................................................................... A22 Educational News.......................................................................................... A28 Death Notices. ............................................................................................... A30 Suppliers News................................................................................................ B1 Classified Ads. .............................................................................................. B17 Shipping Directory........................................................................................ B14 Holt Memorial Chapel Celebrates 100 Years Continued from Front Page until his passing in 1986. Following Patrick’s death, Glenna became one of Arkansas’s first female embalmers. Under her direction the firm was the first in Arkansas to be awarded NFDA’s Pursuit of Excellence Award. She ran the funeral home alongside her brother, Charles Holt, until her retirement in 2020. In December of 2020, John and Jackie Conner and Phillip and Rachel Collie acquired Holt Memorial Chapel. Together, they have a combined funeral service experience of over 70 years. John is a second-generation funeral director and embalmer and a graduate of the Dallas Institute of Funeral Service. He and Jackie married in 1985 and together they own and operate Conner Family Funeral Home in Mountain Home, AR. Jackie is a licensed funeral director in the state of Arkansas and a licensed prepaid funeral sales agent. For Holt, she is a bookkeeper and helps out in the office. Phillip says he was interested in funeral service from a young age. “I was always curious about it.” He is a pastor and was asked to preach at his great aunt’s funeral in March of 1996. “The funeral director asked me if I wanted a job, and the rest is history,” he says. A native of Dover, Phillip began his career in the industry in Russellville in 1996. He is a 2000 graduate of Arkansas State University Mountain Home where he attended mortuary college. He moved to Boone County in 2017 to pastor Batavia Assembly of God. He mar- Continued on page A11 ried Rachel in 2003 and they have two sons, Conner (16) and Carson (12), both of whom work at the funeral home in any way they can. Phillip is an Arkansas licensed funeral director and embalmer, known for his embalming and cosmetic abilities and his people skills. He is the secretary/treasurer of the Boone County Burial Association. Rachel is a licensed cosmetologist who assists with cosmetology needs at the funeral home. She is currently pursuing her funeral directors license, works as a funeral assistant, and manages the business office. The Conners and Collies met because John was the manager at a funeral home that Phillip worked at while attending mortuary college. “They like to say that I joined them for dinner and never left,” says Phillip, who’s like a son to the Conners, who have no biological children themselves. “My boys call them grandma and grandpa,” Phillip states, adding that “we feel the same way about a lot of things in funeral service. We treat people the same way. So, we get along well because of it.” After purchasing the funeral home in December of 2020, the Conners and Collies remodeled the building from January through July of 2021. The interior was completely overhauled. They covered dark paneling, replaced the carpet, and updated all of the furniture. “The difference is like dark and daylight,” says Phillip. When they purchased the home, it still had all of the original furniture from when it was built in 1974. “It was good FTC Non-compete Ban Halted WASHINGTON,DC— As of August 21st, the Northern District of Texas ruled that the FTC exceeded its statutory authority by creating the non-compete rule, effectively halting its implementation. This decision stems from the case brought by the United States Chamber of Commerce, Ryan LLC v. FTC, which initially led to a temporary block on July 3. That temporary block is now permanent, pending any further action, such as an appeal by the FTC. Chief Justice Ada Brown determined that the FTC improperly used the FTC Act’s “housekeeping rules” rather than its “substantive rulemaking power” to establish the non-compete rule. She also ruled that this “sweeping rule” violates the Administrative Procedure Act. While the FTC seriously considers an appeal, the non-compete rule is currently on hold and no longer in effect. It’s important to note that the final rule, even if it does ultimately get instituted, does not apply to noncompete agreements made as part of a bona fide sale of a business entity.
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Page A4 October 2024 Call: 661-250-1507 • Visit: www.XLIndustries.com Available Through Quality Suppliers Made in USA It’s time to upgrade your Display Stands! Providing the Best-Designed Tools for Your Services Since 1926. Dozens of products that give you years of service and store compactly when not in use. Lightweight and easy to take to gravesides or churches. Portable Folding Display Table Basic Gold Stands Nesting Stands Wall Channel with Shelf “Quite Possibly America’s Finest Line of Professional Cosmetics” • Cover Cremes • Lip Color • Liquid Tints • Powder • Brushes • Wax www.derma-pro.net 1-800-531-9744 Fax 903-641-0383 E-Mail: sales@derma-pro.net By Nancy Weil It’s October and the stores are filled with Halloween costumes, spooky decorations, and candy of all kinds. On November 1st the displays quickly change to holiday items, a reminder that the “season of grief” is approaching. This raises the question, “What do you have planned?” Having run grief support groups for almost twenty years I can confidently say that these are difficult months for those who have lost a loved one. Memories of seasons past tug at their heart and the uncertainty of how they will cope this year brings anxiety and tears. Family dynamics, varying religious traditions, and the sheer energy required to handle everything can leave many grieving individuals struggling to make it through the day—let alone the holiday season. You can play a role in supporting your community members who are mourning the loss of a loved one. Not just those families your funeral home or cemetery has served, but anyone in your area that needs a little help. While many of you already offer a holiday remembrance service, there is still more that you can be doing. • Offer year-round grief support groups. These can be monthly (or more frequently) and led by a qualified facilitator. Not sure how to get started? Reach out to me and I will share with you several models that can get your program up and running. • Open your doors for coffee and donuts. Provide a place where people who are grieving can come together to talk with others who understand what they are going through. Random Musings Serving as Member Resources Director at the International Order of the Golden Rule, Nancy Weil brings her years of experience working in the funeral industry to funeral directors across the globe. Her professional experience includes serving as Director of Grief Support and Community Outreach at Veterans Funeral Care in Clearwater, FL and at eleven cemeteries in Western New York. Nancy travels throughout the country offering presentations on how to reduce stress, combat compassion fatigue and offer support for those who are grieving through her company, The Laugh Academy. With certifications as a Grief Services Provider and Grief Management Specialist, Funeral Celebrant, Soul Injury Ambassador and Laughter Leader, Nancy is uniquely qualified to bring new perspectives into how to best meet the needs of the families you serve. For more information on how Nancy can help you and your company grow, visit her website: www.TheLaughAcademy.com or email Nancy@ TheLaughAcademy.com. FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS www.NomisPublications.com Monthly Columnsonline at The Holidays Are Nearly Here • Provide grief resources. Have a list of national grief support groups that cater to specific types of loss (such as loss of a child, addiction, suicide, homicide, etc.) to help people find the support they need. While some of these groups have regional chapters, more and more are going online and offering virtual support (I have a group that meets on Zoom). This broadens support options, especially for those in rural areas where few opportunities exist. • Hold a community remembrance service. Typically held in November or early December, these services can include reading of their loved one’s names, giving out personalized ornaments, and offering comfort through music and poetry. • Better yet, hold a remembrance service in February. Valentine’s Day, which I call “the forgotten holiday of grief,” can be particularly painful. Many churches, hospices and funeral homes provide a service at the end of the year, but come February there is nothing to support those who are struggling with this day dedicated to love. First, determine what you are planning to do, then get the word out. Now is the time to start your media outreach. Contact your local newspaper, television news or radio station and inform them that there are people in your community who are struggling due to a loss and don’t know where to turn for help. Share that you have grief support programs available and ask them to help you connect with those in need of support this holiday season by running a story or writing an article about your programs. Emphasize that the holiday season begins as soon as the stores transition from Halloween to holiday displays. Whether you offer a one-time event, a cup of coffee or an ongoing support group, the most important thing is to offer something. Your community is counting on you for support and comfort following the death of a loved one, not just through the service and burial, but in the months that follow. OAKLAND CITY,IN— Benjamin “Ben” Saunders has announced the publication of Echoes of Valor: The Timeless Tradition of Military Funerals. The book discusses the rich traditions of military funerals, including their historical and cultural significance. Following the journey of American heroes, lesser-known individuals, and some that are basically unknown, the non-fiction book tells of our nation’s heritage. Throughout the story Ben weaves the tale of Army veteran James Bryant and his funeral with military honors. Ben respectfully delves into the impact and significance of military funerals, including rituals and traditions that have shaped and honored the lives of American military heroes. Ben had his first experience in the funeral profession when his sister, a county coroner, and her husband, a funeral director, told him to bring a suit when he came to visit. He worked a funeral with them, going on his first removal while there. “I’ve been a school teacher and worked in prisons. I’ve seen a lot,” says Ben. A correctional officer got stabbed to death, and he saw what his family went through. “the funeral director wasn’t empathetic or personable,” he says. He thought about entering Now Available: Echoes of Valor Benjamin Saunders funeral service at the time but it wasn’t until twenty years later that he earned a bachelor’s degree in funeral service from Mid-America College of Funeral Service, graduating as valedictorian. Ben is a certified cremation arranger obtaining certification through the ICCFA and a certified crematory operator through the American Incinerators Company and U.S. Cremation Equipment. He was working for the state of Tennessee when his brother-in-law purchased Lamb-Basham Memorial Chapel in 2021 and asked Ben to run it. “My sister and brother-in-law have been instrumental in helping me become and grow as a funeral director. They have been very supportive.” Ben acknowledges the funeral home is a business, but says it isn’t about the money. It’s about the families and the community. He offers compassion and caring to everyone who walks through the doors. When conducting a military funeral, Ben introduces the color guard and talks about the history of TAPS or George Washington’s funeral or something related. When people ask questions that he does not have an answer to, he seeks it out. He might contact the United States Military Academy at West Point, the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars or simply use Google to uncover an answer. This led to Ben researching the origins of military honors and the full meaning behind it - from the flag-draped casket (or similar respect given for cremations) firing of three volleys, to the folding of the flag, to the soulful sounding of TAPS. “People are asking me about military funerals. If they are asking me, they’re asking the funeral director in their area, too,” Ben says. Even if they aren’t asking, they are interested. Echoes of Valor: The Timeless Tradition of Military Funerals provides countless details about military honors and history that can be shared during community presentations or at military funerals. The book is available for purchase from Amazon in hardcover, paperback, or eBook. Your Real Source. Anywhere. Anytime. @Nomis.Publications Like News FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY online
Page A5 October 2024 Visit Our Booth #3337 at NFDA
Page A6 October 2024 www.vischerfuneralsupplies.com Free Supplies. FREE Operator Training Video. Settlements can now be used to purchase cremation supplies from our affiliate company, New England Cremation Supply. Competitive Settlements Family Owned and Operated since 1995 Cremation Metal Recycling 800-664-8365 cremation metal recycling - responsible recycling charitable foundation cmr@metrocast.net www.cremationmetalrecycling.com Trusted, premier supplier of cremation supplies, funeral home products, urns, cemetery products and services throughout New England, New York, and America. Family owned and operated since 1995 800-664-8365 necremation@metrocast.net www.necremation.com By Welton Hong Online reviews can make or break a business—especially funeral homes, whose community reputation is everything. A flood of positive reviews can do wonders for your funeral home, while a stream of negative ones can be damaging to your bottom line. With the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) new rules banning fake reviews, the stakes are only getting higher. What the FTC’s recent crackdown on fake reviews highlights is the need for authenticity in a world filled with fake news, ads and, yes, reviews. And I can’t help but think of one of the most authentic (and often untapped) marketing tools: testimonials. Here’s why it comes to mind: People are skeptical. They’ve been burned by fake content before. So when you present them with a genuine testimonial—a heartfelt account from someone who has truly experienced your services—it cuts through the noise. It’s raw, genuine and relatable. While some reviews certainly pack more punch than others, they often lack the depth and emotion of testimonials. Reviews are quick evaluations that can be vague or generic. Testimonials, however, are personal narratives that provide specific details, highlight unique experiences and capture the profound impact your services have had on someone’s life. While a review might simply say, “The staff was helpful,” or only leave a numerical rating, a testimonial delves deeper, sharing how a grieving family felt truly cared for when staff went the extra mile to make a difficult day easier. Testimonials go beyond surface-level impressions, revealing the human side of your business. Another factor setting testimonials apart is credibility. When people use their real names and faces, it adds a layer of authenticity anonymous reviews lack. Google reviews can be gamed, and the FTC’s recent stance against fake online reviews underscores the growing demand for genuine content. There are two main types of testimonials: written and video. Written testimonials are quick and easy to consume, providing concrete examples of your service and helping reduce hesitations. They’re also great for search engine optimization (SEO) because they naturally contain keywords that can help your website get found by people searching for services like yours. Video testimonials are even better—the gold standard, if you will. They leave no room for doubt about the person’s authenticity. People trust what they can see, so video testimonials offer a distinct edge. They are vivid, engaging and stick in people’s minds. Gathering these testimonials is easier than you might think: Just ask. Don’t be shy; the families you’ve served are often more than willing to share their experiences if you provide a platform. Offer to record their testimonials on-site or set up a simple online form for them to write a testimonial or upload a video. Timing is crucial. When a family expresses gratitude is the The Untapped Power of Testimonials for Funeral Homes Powerhouse Marketing with Welton ideal time to suggest a testimonial. However, a follow-up email or phone call a few weeks later can also serve as a gentle nudge, reinforcing that you genuinely care beyond the immediate service. Once you’ve accrued a handful of testimonials, don’t hesitate; put them online. Think of your website as your 24/7 salesperson. Fill it with real stories from real families who trusted you during their most difficult moments. Don’t hide testimonials on a “reviews” page; feature them prominently throughout your site. Place a compelling testimonial on your homepage, in service descriptions or near contact forms to offer that final nudge of confidence. Each testimonial is an opportunity to connect, demonstrating, “This is who we are. This is why families trust us.” They bring your services to life in a way no star rating ever could. Welton Hong is the founder of Ring Ring Marketing® and a leading expert in creating case generation from online to the phone line. He is the author of Making Your Phone Ring with Internet Marketing for Funeral Homes. For more information, visit www.FuneralHomeProfits.com. FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS www.NomisPublications.com Monthly Columnsonline at WINTER PARK,FL— Foundation Partners Group has announced the appointment of David Waltzer as chief financial officer. Waltzer will oversee financial strategies and operations supporting the company’s long-term growth and expansion into a broader range of end-of-life planning services. “David brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in financial leadership that will be invaluable as we expand our footprint in end-of-life services,” said Chris Blackwell, Foundation Partners’ interim CEO. “He is a results-driven, detail-oriented operator with a keen understanding of the balance between business partnership and operating performance. David will play a critical role as we integrate new partners to bring a comprehensive solution to end-of-life planning that will streamline and simplify the experience for families across the United States.” With 36 years of experience, Waltzer has held leadership positions in multi-unit healthcare services, manufacturing, distribution, and consumer products and services. He most recently served as CFO at Wellpath where he managed care for over 260,000 patients daily across the United States and Australia. He began his career as a senior auditor at Arthur Andersen, followed by roles at Foundation Partners Group Acquires Cake to Meet Growing Demand for End-of-Life Planning Tools and Resources WINTER PARK,FL— Foundation Partners Group, the second largest provider of funeral services in the United States, has announced the acquisition of Cake, a trailblazer in online end-of-life planning tools and resources that makes mortality planning more of “a piece of cake.” Cake is also a symbol of celebrating life moments and honoring life. Chris Blackwell, Foundation Partners’ interim CEO, said the Cake acquisition represents an important step in the company’s mission to bring a comprehensive solution to end-of-life planning that will streamline and simplify the experience for families across the United States. “We are doubling down on innovation and leading in a rapidly evolving consumer landscape in which families are looking for more modern, personalized and transparent end-of-life experiences that align with their values,” said Blackwell. “In late 2021, Foundation Partners embarked on a multi-year, multi-million-dollar plan to build the funeral home of the future. We believe this means delivering experiences and serving families in the way they want, across both digital and physical environments. To that end, we’ve created the nation’s leading direct-to-consumer cremation brand with Tulip, and now we’re investing in the largest end-of-life planning platform with Cake.” Since its launch, over 100 million people have used Cake’s extensive digital catalog of more than 5,000 articles and easy to use tools to navigate the intricacies of end-of-life planning and bereavement support including wills, funeral arrangements, advance care directives, estate settlement and grief. “We meet with families going through the end-of-life experience every day and many wish they were better prepared and had easier ways to move through the process,” said Lee Senderov, Foundation Partners’ chief marketing and digital officer, who has led the company’s digital transformation for the past four years. “By aligning Cake’s digital resources with our network of more than 250 funeral homes, cemeteries and direct-toconsumer cremation services we aim to make this complicated and overwhelming process easier, allowing families more space and energy to honor their loved ones. While we’ve only begun to explore the synergies between our two companies, we know no other funeral service company currently offers the content, connections, customization and online commerce options of Foundation Partners with Cake.” Suelin Chen, Ph.D, created Cake in 2015 to help address people’s anxiety about end-of-life planning and empower them to make the best decisions for themselves and their families. “Cake was founded with the vision that other life milestones - like having babies or getting married - had online tools to make the process easier,” said Chen. “This just wasn’t true for the end-of-life category. The good news is that today families are increasingly more comfortable talking about death and dying, and we think Cake has contributed to that trend. We’re excited to join Foundation Partners Group to continue our mission to bridge that gap.” Cake is the leading platform for endof-life planning and navigating mortality, serving millions of people each year. With thousands of articles and innovative planning tools, Cake is a one-stop-shop for all aspects of death and end-of-life including healthcare, funerals, financial and legal concerns, making meaning in everyone’s life, and curating their digital legacy. Visit www.joincake.com to learn more. Foundation Partners Group Appoints David Waltzer Chief Financial Officer David Waltzer Lockheed Martin and National Dentex, LLC. Waltzer holds a bachelor’s degree in economics and accounting from the University of Maryland Baltimore County and a master’s in business from the University of Baltimore. Foundation Partners Group is one of the industry’s most innovative providers of funeral services and the second-largest funeral home group in the country based on the number of families served. Foundation Partners owns and operates a network of over 230 funeral homes, cremation centers and cemeteries across 21 states. Their deep understanding of technology and customer experience-centered approach allows them to deliver truly innovative and compassionate care to the families they serve. Visit www.foundationpartners.com to learn more. www.NomisPublications.com 1-800-321-7479 “I Love My Funeral Director” “I Love My Cemeterian” Now is the PERFECT TIME to order the PERFECT GIFTS Customization Available! Call for Details.
Page A7 October 2024 Church & Chapel Metal Arts, Inc. www.church-chapel.com | (800)-992-1234 | Info@church-chapel.com BODY POSITIONING 1000 Pound Capacity! Chapel Furniture | Funeral Home Supplies | Urns Family Owned and Operated Since 1933 2616 W. Grand Ave. Chicago, IL 60612 Angelus Prep Block CC 10121 Soft Touch Headblock CC 10126 Wedge-Ease CC 10128 Hydraulic Scissor Lift CE CP 1000 Styrofoam Headblock CC 10127 CHAPEL FURNISHINGS & SERVICE ITEMS LED Redneck Light Bulbs CE 600 Casket Facial Lamp CB 645 Wood Reserved Seat Signs Reserved, Family, Pallbearer Replacement Body Straps CB 5404-4 Casket Lift Supports CB 4900-2 Large Body Positioners CC 10134 Small Body Positioners CC 10132 Lamp Shades 15+ different styles Portable Register Stand CE XL-8 Pedestal Directory AA 866-10 Portable Self-Folding Traffic Guides (Set of 5 w/ wall bracket) CB 6401-5 Please No Parking Funeral CB 6402-5 Funeral Parking Only CB 6407-5 No Parking CB 6408-5 Blank CB 6406-5H No Parking w/ Handicap Symbol Funeral Stickers CE WS 647 BODY LIFTING DUODRAPE CB 4005-2 Casket Pedestals CE 6950 Casket Lifter & Transport Truck CB 6320-ND-2 Sampson “One Man”Hydraulic Body & Casket Lifter CB 7760SQ Memorial Display Tray CC 644-MV Monteverdi Chapel Set White Casket Flag Band CC 1950 1000 Pound Capacity! ALUMINUM NAME PLATES 4” Block - Chrome Finish 3” Block - Gold Finish 3” Script - Polished Bright Finish 3” Slant - Polished Bright Finish 2” Block - Polished Satin Finish 2” 2 Line Plate - Polished Bright Finish Available in polished or satin standard finish. There are many custom styles, including bright chrome and brass plated name plates available for an extra charge. Stock Finish - Polished Bright & Lacquered Slant Style Font available at no additional Charge Plates sold in pairs 2” Block, Standard or Slant $12.50 per letter Max 21 letters & spaces per plate 3” Block, Standard or Slant $16.50 per letter Max 13 letters & spaces per plate 4” Block, Standard or Slant $18.75 per letter Max 11 letters & spaces per plate Above prices are per letter, per plate. Minimum charge per plate $1 50.00 Double line plates are priced per letter - at 2 times the longest line. 50% upcharge for Script Style letter. Upcharge for brass or chrome plating $100.00 per plate, per line. PHONE: 773-489-3700 FAX: 773-489-3434 800-992-1234 800-626-3299 info@church-chapel.com • www.church-chapel.com Visit Our Booth #2013 at NFDA
Page A8 October 2024 AMRA INSTRUMENTS Researched, Developed and Patented by Funeral Directors Research,Inc. visit www.amrainstruments.com for links to our Supply Chain Partners ™ ® Last month as we left off, we were discussing creating the underlying base to recreate facial tissue damaged/missing as a result of a motor vehicle accident. It was suggested we use a large scarf to cover the damaged areas and have the hairdresser blend the hair in with the scarf. (fig. 1). An important reminder…family and friends are curious by nature…they often ‘go looking’ when they shouldn’t. Attempting to hide damaged tissue verses repairing it can lead to an embarrassing situation. Just a side note: it’s vitally important for you to make sure you wouldn’t be embarrassed to open the foot end of a casket in public… everything should be perfect. More than a few times I needed to reassure young family members, grandpa/grandma’s feet and legs were there, or the slippers were on…just last week, the great-grandchildren wanted to make sure grandma was ‘barefoot’. In other words, don’t cut corners and be unprepared. Next up was repairing the damage beside the left eye and over the lip. I had brought the tissue beside the eye together until it began to create a ‘pucker’ then backed off just a bit. (fig. 2) It’s easier to fill and overcome a void than attempting to eliminate a ‘pucker’. In this instance it took just an application of surface restoring wax. It’s important to work some of the wax under the flap of skin as you begin to fill the area of missing tissue. (fig. 3) The more difficult area, her forehead and upper eye sockBy Wally Hooker, CFSP, MBIE et was next…I say difficult in that it’s a prominent area and will be more ‘exposed’ than the other restoration. Rather than using a ‘wound filler wax’, as a base, I chose using a mortuary putty…working it under the outer margins and gently working it though the basket weave ligature, just below the skin surface. I tamped a layer of Webril Cotton into the putty, then applied ‘pore closer’ over it. Just a minute or so of using a hair blow dryer dried the material to a firm dry base for the surface restoring wax. This step creates a very stable base and was just an extra precaution to ensure a good result. Next was covering the mortuary putty base with surface restorer wax. This area offered little physical restriction and was easy to ‘work’ the wax into the appropriate contour. It’s important not to over-work the wax, creating a surface that is too smooth and doesn’t appear natural. Skin has pores, wrinkles, furrows, scars, etc., so we must do our best to replicate those to create a natural appearance. I recovered hair from the back of her neck to recreate her missing eyebrow and gently tamped into the wax with just a little glue starting at the outer margin, working to the inside. This is painstaking work, but the outcome makes it worth the effort. (fig. 4) The color of her face from the injuries and the restorative materials would be difficult to cover with just cosmetics…it would look over-done. I chose to use a lavender colored ‘primer coat’ to bring her face to just one color and then could Embalming 101 use just a light application of cosmetics and highlights to create a peaceful appearance and not look overly ‘made up’. (fig. 5) It took just a couple light applications of cosmetics and powder to have her ready for an open casket service. Her sister who was with her when she died was very grateful to see her sister beautiful again. (fig. 6) If I can do it, you can too! I’m sure most of you out there are doing this kind on work on a daily basis and make us all look good…keep up the great work! See you next month. Wallace P. (Wally) Hooker CFSP, MBIE, is the owner, funeral director and embalmer of Family & Friends Funeral Home of Wingate, IN. He and his wife, Janet designed, established and built their funeral home in 2004. Wally is a graduate of Worsham College of Mortuary Science, where he serves on the Advisory Board. He is Past President of the Indiana Funeral Directors Association and previous board member of North American Division of the British Institute of Embalmers. In addition, he has served as chief deputy coroner/investigator of Fountain County, IN for the last 24 years. FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS www.NomisPublications.com Monthly Columnsonline at Can We See Him/Her? (Part 5) Fig. 1 Fig. 2 Fig. 3 Fig. 4 Fig. 5 Fig. 6 “Phaneuf has a long history serving Nashua residents in their greatest time of need. My great grandfather, Jean Baptist Phaneuf, started a funeral home in Nashua in 1906. My grandfather’s cousin, Albert Phaneuf, ran that until 1986,” said Phaneuf. “New Hampshire families come to us during one of the most distressing times in their lives–the loss of a loved one. Our top priority is and always will be providing exceptional service. Our team ensures the experience of our families is as seamless as possible, including options that fit into their budget,” said Buddy. “Adding Zis-Sweeney and St Laurent to the Phaneuf family provides us the ability to, once again, serve families in the Nashua area.” Phaneuf is the largest family-owned funeral and cremation provider in New England, with seven locations in New Hampshire and Vermont. Phaneuf Funeral Homes and Crematorium acquires Zis-Sweeney and St. Laurent Funeral Home MANCHESTER,NH— Phaneuf Funeral Homes and Crematorium has acquired the privately-owned Zis-Sweeney and St. Laurent Funeral Home, located at 26 Kinsley Street in Nashua. The move represents a homecoming of sorts, as the Phaneuf family ran a funeral home in Nashua for 80 years before closing in the mid 1980s. President and CEO Arthur “Buddy” Phaneuf is proud to be back in Nashua with the fourth and fifth generation stewards of this family business. SEND US YOUR NEWS! info@nomispublications.com FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS Your Real Source. Anywhere. Anytime. @Nomis.Publications Like News FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY online
Page A9 October 2024 Sarah has been absolutely amazing! Her ability to take care of our claims in a timely and informative way is Top Notch. Sarah makes my job easier and I hope to always have her by my side for my fundings! -Edward Ward meet Sarah Having been a person heavily affected by tragedy and death I find it comforting to offer support to others going through these difficult times. We at C&J Financial strive to be a source of information, comfort, advice, and relief to the families and funeral homes we service. It is with great pleasure that we serve with compassion, understanding, but also a mindset of doing what's best, not only for the financial success of the funeral homes, but for the families which they serve. There may be no greater industry than the funeral industry that encapsulates empathy and humanity, I count myself privileged to work with funeral directors with a tireless work ethic and desire to serve their community. Find out why we’re North America’s #1 Provider of Insurance Assignment Funding
Page A10 October 2024 The Multi-Closure: A Trocar Button on Steroids Available through all suppliers in the funeral industry Innovative Supply Inc. 3469 Lake Elmo Avenue, Suite 159, Lake Elmo, MN 55042 innovativesupply@mncable.net 1-800-890-0558 You’ll Never Use Cotton Again! The A/V Closure Closes openings caused by: I.V. Lines • Hypodermic Incisions • Trocar Incisions • Radial Incisions • Tracheotomies • Feeding Tubes Stops Bodily Fluids • Stops Gaseous Odors As funeral directors, we are no strangers to the toll our profession can take on our mental and emotional wellbeing. We serve families during their most challenging times, offering comfort and support while shouldering the weight of their grief. But in the midst of caring for others, it’s easy to forget to care for ourselves. The importance of mental health in the funeral industry cannot be overstated, and it’s crucial that we prioritize the well-being of not only our clients but also our employees and ourselves. The funeral industry is unique. We are constantly surrounded by death, grief, and loss. This exposure can lead to compassion fatigue, burnout, and even depression if not properly managed. The long hours, emotional labor, and the pressure to be constantly available can take a serious toll on our mental and physical health. It’s essential that we recognize the signs of stress and take proactive steps to address them. One of the most important things we can do as leaders is to foster an environment where mental health is a priority. This starts with creating a workplace culture that encourages open communication and supports employees in seeking help when they need it. We must ensure that our teams feel comfortable discussing their mental health without fear of stigma or judgment. Providing access to mental health resources, such as counseling services or stress management workshops, is a vital step in supporting our employees. It’s also important to recognize that mental health is not just about managing stress; it’s about taking care of the whole person—mind, body, and soul. EncourBy Jon O’Hara, CEO, Great Lakes Partnership age your team to take breaks, use their vacation time, and engage in activities that help them recharge. Whether it’s spending time with family, pursuing hobbies, or simply taking a walk outside, these moments of self-care are essential to maintaining balance and avoiding burnout. As leaders, we often put the needs of our business and our clients ahead of our own. But it’s important to remember that we cannot pour from an empty cup. Taking care of our own mental health is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. We must model healthy behaviors for our teams, showing them that it’s okay to take time for themselves. This might mean setting boundaries, such as not answering work emails after hours, or scheduling regular time off to recharge. In addition to supporting our own mental health, we must also be vigilant in watching for signs of stress or burnout in our employees. If someone seems withdrawn, irritable, or overly tired, it’s important to check in with them and offer support. Sometimes, just knowing that someone cares can make a world of difference. The funeral industry is built on compassion, but we cannot forget to extend that same compassion to ourselves and our teams. By prioritizing mental health, we not only create a healthier workplace but also ensure that we can continue to provide the high level of care that our clients deserve. In closing, I urge you to take a moment to reflect on your own mental health and the well-being of your team. Are you doing everything you can to support them? Are you taking care of yourself? Remember, taking care of your mind, body, and soul is not just important—it’s essential Critical Thinking: The Evolution of the Funeral Profession to the longevity of your career and the health of your business. Let’s commit to making mental health a priority in our industry, for the benefit of ourselves, our employees, and the families we serve. FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS www.NomisPublications.com Monthly Columnsonline at Jon O’Hara is a forward thinking funeral director & CEO of the Great Lakes Family of Companies. Jon is a first generation funeral director and in addition to working as a funeral director, he has also worked for Aurora Casket Company, Tributes.com, and The Outlook Group. He founded Great Lakes Partnership in 2018, which has grown from solely a pre-need marketing organization to a strategic consulting partner for funeral homes. He is also currently building his first funeral home location in Chesterfield Twp, MI. He lives in the Detroit area with his wife, Michelle, two sons, Henry and Teddy, and Labradoodles Sydney and Annie. Contact Jon O’Hara at 586-636-6611 or johara@greatlakespartnership.com. The Importance of Mental Health in the Funeral Industry: Caring for Mind, Body, and Soul Park Lawn Continues Growth Strategy by Expanding Presence in North Carolina and Central Texas and Announces Leadership Changes TORONTO,ONTARIO— Park Lawn Corporation is pleased to announce that, on August 5, 2024, it acquired substantially all the assets of Carolina Memorial Park of Concord located in Kannapolis, NC; Carolina Memorial Park of Harrisburg located in Charlotte, NC; and Whitley’s Funeral Home located in Kannapolis, NC. The Carolina-Whitley acquisitions extend Park Lawn’s presence in the North Carolina market through the addition of two stand-alone cemeteries as well as one stand-alone funeral home. In addition, Park Lawn is also excited to announce that, on September 9, 2024, it acquired substantially all the assets of Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funerals & Cremations in Waco, TX. The WHB acquisition expands Park Lawn’s presence in central Texas through the addition of one stand-alone funeral home. “We are pleased to expand our existing operating presence in both the state of North Carolina and in central Texas through the strategic acquisitions of the Carolina-Whitley and WHB businesses,” said J. Bradley Green, Chief Executive Officer of PLC. Green continued, “These distinguished businesses are market leaders in their respective communities and will be an excellent addition to our existing portfolio of high-quality businesses. We are honored to welcome the Carolina-Whitley and WHB businesses and their teams into the Park Lawn family.” Leadership Changes Park Lawn also announced certain changes to its leadership team, effective August 10, 2024, to further support the organization following the completion of its go-private transaction: Jay Dodds has been appointed to serve as Chief Strategy Officer. Dodds has elected to step away from his role as President and Chief Operations Officer but will remain an important member of the Executive Leadership Team as the Chief Strategy Officer. Green stated, “Jay has been a fundamental and unshakeable part of our foundation for years and I want to personally thank him for his commitment and dedication to Park Lawn. I am pleased that he will remain a part of the Executive Leadership Team and, as Chief Strategy Officer, Jay will be instrumental in advancing our strategic objectives well into the future.” Jennifer Hay has been appointed to serve as President and General Counsel. Hay joined Park Lawn in 2018 and has served in various leadership capacities, most recently as Chief Strategy Officer and General Counsel. “Jennifer has become an integral member of the Executive Leadership Team with her leadership and strategic vision. With her diverse set of skills and experience, in her new role, she will work to more deeply support each of the functional areas of the business including the operations and sales functions as we continue to execute on our long-term strategy,” stated Green. Mathew Forastiere has been appointed to serve as the Chief Operations Officer. Forastiere is a licensed funeral director and embalmer who has worked in the profession for over twenty-five years. He joined Park Lawn in 2018 and has served in a variety of senior operational leadership positions since that time. “Mat has been a significant contributor to the organization’s core operating philosophy and we are confident that his expertise and passion for service will continue to drive the success of our operations,” said Green. “These experienced leaders have a depth of knowledge of both our organization as well as the profession which has set us up for continued success and execution on our long-term strategic growth plan,” concluded Green. PLC and its subsidiaries own and operate businesses including cemeteries, crematoria, funeral homes, chapels and event centers throughout Canada and the United States which provide a full range of services and merchandise to fulfill the desires of individuals and families seeking to honor their loved ones. PLC operates in two Canadian provinces and seventeen U.S. states. For more information, visit www.plcorp.com. SUBSCRIPTION Funeral Home & Cemetery News Call 1-800-321-7479 YEARLY SUBSCRIPTION RATES: $30.00 Subscription ~ $50.00 First Class ~ $60.00 Canada & Mexico ~ $75.00 Outside North America Subscribe Online at www.NomisPublications.com
Page A11 October 2024 BogatiUrns.com quality furniture, but from the 70s,” says Phillip. It was sentimental to the Ragan’s, so they kept it when the home was refurbished. Phillip believes deeply in the importance of funeral service. “It has been cheapened in the last several years, and now people don’t find a need for it,” he says. “But it’s important for families and our Holt Memorial Chapel Celebrates 100 Years Continued from Page A2 society. We need to remember and honor the deceased. It helps us with grieving and moving on.” Phillip is happy to be able to serve and help people. “The main thing is preparing bodies for viewing, to take care and embalm well,” he says, adding that they prepare the bodies for viewing with dignity, taking the time for details so that when families come in to view their loved one, they are satisfied with how they look. “That’s my favorite part,” he says, “seeing their reaction and how pleased they are. It helps them in the whole process.” The two families are planning a 100-year celebration for October. It will consist of a giveaway, hot dogs and hamburgers, a bump and jump for the kids, and a drawing for cash or a prize. Many people have not seen Holt Memorial Chapel since it’s been remodeled, so this will be a good opportunity to showcase the updated building. “People who haven’t seen it still come in and say it’s beautiful,” says Phillip. For more information, visit the Holt Memorial Chapel website at HoltChapel.com. info@NomisPublications.com fax 1-800-321-9040 PO Box 5159, Youngstown, OH 44514 FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS Send us your news! We Welcome Industry News from YOU!
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