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Plumbing projects that pack a punch. Hub Plumbing & Mechanical looks at which projects offer the highest return on investment.

DATELINE:  SOUTH BOSTON, MA…
For many homeowners, remodeling or upgrading their existing home remains an appealing option in an uncertain real estate market. The question is, which projects offer the best return on investment in the long run?

John Wood, founder and CEO of Hub Plumbing & Mechanical of Boston offers some suggestions on upgrade and remodeling projects that involve his area of expertise – anything that involves plumbing or HVAC considerations, including, of course, bathrooms and kitchens.

First of all, it’s important to decide what your goal is – maintenance and repair or a lifestyle improvement? Do you want to simply upgrade tired fixtures or do you want to invest in a lavish gourmet kitchen, or a spa-like retreat to replace an existing bath?

Notes Wood, “Plumbing is tricky; it’s not just a matter of running a few pipes to accommodate new fixtures or appliances. Depending on the age and condition of your home, you may be facing a hodge-podge of materials and plumbing “fixes” that have been incorporated over the years. You need to realistically determine what you can afford, establish a budget, and stick to it.”

That said, which projects not only provide comfort and style, but also offer a good long-term return on your investment? Using Remodeling Magazine’s 2007 Cost vs. Value Report for the New England region as a basis, a minor kitchen remodel, which would include a mid grade replacement of existing plumbing fixtures, would recoup an 86% return on investment (ROI.) A major mid range kitchen remodel, with features such as a double stainless-steel sink and a center island, would deliver a 77.7% ROI. An upscale kitchen remodel, utilizing elements such as designer fixtures, and a built-in water filtration system, would have an ROI of 76.7%

A mid-range bathroom remodel that would include the replacement of all plumbing fixtures, would deliver a 74.8% return on investment, while a midrange bathroom addition would yield an ROI of 65.8%. An upscale bathroom remodel, which would expand the bathroom within the existing footprint of the house, relocating all fixtures to accommodate a whirlpool and separate shower, would result in a 64.3% ROI, while an upscale bathroom addition, increasing the footprint of the house, would have an ROI of 64.1%

Once you decide what improvements you would like to pursue, don’t forget the basics when planning an upgrade or remodeling project. Research contractors by license number to make sure that they ARE licensed, and to see if any complaints have been filed against them. References should also be readily available and should be checked for verification. Also, don’t forget to ask for a copy of the contractor’s insurance binder.

About Hub Plumbing & Mechanical
Hub Plumbing & Mechanical was established in 1999 and now includes a staff of 16 full time employees. This full service plumbing company assists residential and commercial customers with code violations, sewer/drain clogs, garbage disposals, water heaters, water filtration, steam and hot water boilers, thermostats, leaky faucets, tub valves, gas pipes, appliance installation, outside hose faucets, and residential HVAC service.

Hub Plumbing & Mechanical was recently highlighted in a new book entitled “The Celebrity Experience” where Hub Plumbing & Mechanical’s Red Carpet Service was cited as an example of how it’s possible to create faithful life long customers by showering them with treatment usually reserved for celebrities.

Hub Plumbing and Mechanical’s signature Red Carpet service features experienced teams of licensed technicians who not only protect your floors with a red carpet, but also cover their work boots with stain-resistant booties, wear ID badges for security purposes, and arrive on time and smartly dressed in crisp, clean uniforms.

The company does not charge by the hour, but by the specific project. Hub Plumbing & Mechanical is available 24 hours a day and 7 seven days a week to provide immediate access and peace of mind. Dedicated 2nd and 3rd shift night dispatchers internally handle all calls at Hub Plumbing & Mechanical, not an answering service. The difference between the two enables Hub Plumbing & Mechanical to get real-time info on the customer 24/7 to expedite the call as efficiently as possible.

Hub Plumbing & Mechanical Inc. is located at 70 Old Colony Avenue in South Boston, MA 02127. For more information about Hub Plumbing & Mechanical call 1-866-HUBPLUMBING (482-7586), email services@hubplumbing.com, or visit www.hubplumbing.com.

Plumbing projects that pack a punch. Hub Plumbing & Mechanical looks at which projects offer the highest return on investment.Read More

Boot Camp for New Dads Shares Strategies for New Fathers Working Long Hours

In an economy where the work days keep getting longer and money keeps getting tighter, new fathers face the challenge of how to find time to spend with their babies and still cover the bills.

Greg Bishop, founder of Boot Camp for New Dads, a non-profit orientation program for fathers-to-be, operating in more than 260 hospitals, clinics, schools, fire stations and churches around North America and internationally, and author of two books on fathering, provides new fathers with tips for spending at least a few hours a week with their baby.

Bishop offers strategies from the more than 200,000 new dads that have gone through Boot Camp in his second book, Crash Course for New Dads: Tools, Checklists and Cheat Sheets on how dads can spend time with their babies even though they work long hours or frequently travel away from home:

· Do everything you can to make sure you are there for your baby’s birth.

· Change that first diaper. Make the time you do have with your baby count as much as possible. Set the tone that you are here to be a player and get involved early.

· Strive for solutions that enable you to spend time with your child. Figure out how to work from home if possible, even if it is just once a week.

· When you are home, make sure you spend time alone with your baby. Don’t let your limited experience caring for your baby limit you. Send mom out for an afternoon and just do it.

· Play with your baby before you leave in the morning and just after you get home. Many dads report that their babies sleep longer if they play with them at night.

· Keep your baby’s picture where you’ll see it often and keep him/her in mind.

· Call mom and catch up on your baby’s antics of the day.

· Use technology! Have mom hold the phone to your baby’s ear so you can talk to him/her. Ask her to send pictures to your cell phone or email.

· Be really creative. A young father who was deployed to Iraq recorded himself singing a dozen nursery rhymes which his wife plays for their baby every day so that their baby will recognize dad’s voice when he returns.

“Today’s economic realities create difficult circumstances. Many careers demand long work hours; your new baby will add to your financial requirements and your mate is going to be out of commission as an income generator for at least a little while,” explained Bishop. “Yes, it’s going to be an ongoing challenge, but if fathers work at spending time with their baby, it’s the most rewarding challenge they will ever take on.”

Bishop’s first book, Hit the Ground Crawling, covers work balance, being a dad, caring for a new mom and much more. Both books are available online at www.DadsAdventure.com.

New Dads Learn What to Expect at Boot Camp Workshops

Dads-to-be will be better equipped to face the challenges and opportunities of fatherhood after attending a Boot Camp “hands on” educational workshop. Men attend the class when they are expecting their first baby, and are joined in the workshop by “veterans” who had previously attended and have returned with their two to four-month-old baby in tow. They are able to give the dads-to-be a realistic idea of what to do and what to expect when their first baby comes. For many men attending, it’s their first time holding a baby.

Boot Camp for New Dads

Now celebrating their 18th year, Boot Camp for New Dads is nationally acclaimed as the “Best Practice” for preparing men to be fathers and has been named a U.S. Navy Model Program. Boot Camp for New Dads has prepared more than 200,000 men for fatherhood over the years.

With more than 4.1 million births last year alone (National Center for Health Statistics), and approximately 1.5 million men becoming new dads every year, it’s more important than ever for fathers to realize that being a “good provider” is only part of the very central role they have in their children’s lives.

For more information about Boot Camp for New Dads, visit www.bcnd.org. To arrange an interview with Greg Bishop, please contact sdubin@prworkzone.com, (781) 582-1061.

National and International Locations

Boot Camp For New Dads locations include ALASKA (Anchorage); ARIZONA (Chandler, Flagstaff, Gilbert, Mesa, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Sun City); ARKANSAS (Jonesboro, Paragould, Springdale); CALIFORNIA (Apple Valley, Bakersfield, , Fresno, Garden Grove, Irvine, Laguna Hills, Madera, Merced, Mission Hills, , Oakland, Orange, Pomona, Port Hueneme, San Diego, Santa Ana, Santa Barbara, , S. Lake Tahoe, Travis, Valley Springs); COLORADO (Aurora, Boulder, Colorado Springs, Denver, Durango, Fort Collins, Fort Carson, Greeley, Longmont, Thornton, Wheat Ridge); CONNECTICUT (Bristol, Danbury, New London); FLORIDA (Brandon, Clearwater, Hollywood, Jacksonville, North Palm Beach, Orlando, St. Petersburg, West Palm Beach, Sarasota, Tampa); GEORGIA (Atlanta, Elberton, Gainesville, Marietta, Savannah); HAWAII (Pearl Harbor, Schofield); ILLINOIS (Aurora, Carbondale, Champaign, Chicago, East St. Louis, Evanston, Freeport, Geneva, Great Lakes, Highland Park, Libertyville, Moline, Oak Park, Rockford, Springfield, Urbana, Winfield); INDIANA (Anderson, Bluffton, Hammond, Indianapolis, Jeffersonville, Kokomo); IOWA (Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, Jefferson, Sioux City); KANSAS (Junction City, Topeka); KENTUCKY (Paducah); LOUISIANA (Covington); MAINE (Auburn, Augusta, Bangor, Brunswick, Ellsworth, Waterville); MARYLAND (Annapolis) MASSACHUSETTS (Beverly, Ipswich, Lowell, Nantucket, Plymouth, Weymouth, Springfield); MICHIGAN (, Ann Arbor, Bay City, Centreville, Iron Mountain, Ithaca, Kalamazoo, Niles, St Joseph, Ypsilanti); MINNESOTA (Brainerd, Duluth, Robbinsdale); MISSISSIPPI (Tupelo); MISSOURI (Jefferson City) MONTANA (Billings, Helena, Miles City); NEBRASKA (Kearney, Lincoln, Omaha); NEVADA (Las Vegas) NEW HAMPSHIRE (Manchester, Portsmouth); NEW JERSEY (Princeton) NEW YORK (Glens Falls, Little Falls, Mineola, Rome, Utica); NORTH CAROLINA (Burlington, Chapel Hill, Charlotte, Concord, Ft. Bragg, Greensboro, Monroe, Raleigh, Shelby); NORTH DAKOTA (Grand Forks); OHIO (Akron, Cleveland, Columbus, East Cleveland, East Liverpool, Garfield Heights, Lima, Lorain, Mayfield Heights, Middleburg Heights, Orange Village, Portsmouth, Toledo, Warren, Westlake, Youngstown); OKLAHOMA (Claremore, Oklahoma City, Tulsa); OREGON (Corvalis, McMinnville, Salem, Silverton); SOUTH CAROLINA (Columbia, Pickens, Walhalla); TENNESSEE (Chattanooga, Knoxville, Memphis); TEXAS (Amarillo, Dallas, Fort Hood, Longview, Lubbock, Plano, San Antonio, Texarkana, Waco, Webster); VERMONT (Barre, Brattleboro, Middlebury); VIRGINIA (Charlottesville, Chesapeake, Hampton, Richmond) WASHINGTON (Everett, Fairchild AFB, Longview, Olympia, Puyallup, Yakima); WEST VIRGINIA (Wheeling); WISCONSIN (Florence, Green Bay, Madison, Oshkosh, Watertown, Wausau); JAPAN (Atsugi, Yokosuka), ITALY (Sicily); UNITED KINGDOM [a.k.a. Hit the Ground Crawling] (Birmingham, Liverpool)

Boot Camp for New Dads Shares Strategies for New Fathers Working Long HoursRead More

Rodman & Rodman, P.C. Shares Cash Flow Tips in a Bad Economy

Statistics show that in a good economy, approximately one third of all small businesses do not survive their first year of business. Approximately two-thirds do not survive year three. The primary reason a business fails is poor financial management, which in many cases is preventable.

So how can a small business survive in a bad economy?

Larry Rice, CPA, Director of Strategic Consulting of Rodman & Rodman, P.C., Certified Public Accountants and business strategists catering to small and medium sized companies throughout New England, outlines critical cash flow tips for small business owners to help them weather a bad economy and beyond.

Create a cash flow projection or plan. Every small business should measure projected cash flow one year forward. That projection should be updated on a quarterly basis. A good cash flow projection starts with a good sales projection. Use historical data and be sure to consider any changes in your environment such as competition, economic change, etc. Once you have that sales projection, then it is a matter of translating those sales into the time frames that you get paid for those sales. When you place the payment for those expenses along side the receipt of revenues, you’ve created a cash flow projection.

Plan appropriately for capital expenditures. Due to an aversion of debt, many business owners pay cash for significant corporate assets. This can lead to a cash flow disaster. A good rule of thumb is that all long term assets should be financed over the expected life of those assets. If you are going to buy a machine that will last 10 years, you should seek to finance it over those 10 years. The idea is to match the outflows (the payment for the assets) to the time you expect to generate inflows (sales) from the use of that asset.

Better your credit management. Eager to make any sales, some owners do not have strong credit policies. The worst of all cash flow problems is to expend all the resources to make a product or provide a service, and then not get paid for it. Small business can not be too eager to have just any customers; they need to have the right customers. Go after the customers you want, not the customers who will waste your energy as you chase them to get paid.

Manage suppliers. Small business often pays its bills at designated times, which often are too early. Sometimes this is for convenience but can be dangerous to cash flow. Bills should be
paid timely to maintain good customer relations, but as close to the due date as possible. Seek opportunities for taking the better discounts for prompt payment from suppliers.

Manage inventory. Sometimes owners do not want to rid themselves of stale inventory at a discount, hoping that some customer will appear to pay full price. Sometimes the best course is to get rid of the inventory and use the cash for other more practical purposes.

Maintain a good relationship with a bank/lending officer. Not all credit decisions are objective. By maintaining positive communications, sometimes credit which might not be available can be secured when you maintain an open dialogue

According to Rice, “The most important financial statement is not the Balance Sheet or Profit and Loss; it is the Cash Flow Statement. Only the cash flow statement tells you how much cash your business is generating from operations. A very profitable company can still fail if the cash flow isn’t there to sustain that profit. Bottom line: more businesses fail because of poor cash flow than poor profit. Good cash flow planning is the key to small business success in any economy.”

Rodman & Rodman, P.C.

Founded in 1961, Rodman & Rodman, P.C. provides accounting, tax and business services to small and medium-sized companies throughout New England. With a focus on strategic planning, Rodman & Rodman goes beyond traditional accounting services and takes a proactive approach when serving clients to increase, preserve and sustain clients’ financial net worth.

From business valuations, taxation, audits, fraud detection and prevention services and succession planning to a variety of accounting IT services including software selection, implementation and training, the team at Rodman & Rodman serves as comprehensive advisors to clients. For individual clients, the company offers personal advisory services such as planning for real estate transactions, obtaining financing, estate planning and retirement planning as well as planning for college education. Rodman & Rodman Certified Public Accountants are located at 3 Newton Executive Park in Newton, Mass. For more information, visit their website at www.rodmancpa.com or contact Jen Reading at (617) 965-5959.

Rodman & Rodman, P.C. Shares Cash Flow Tips in a Bad EconomyRead More

Masters Touch Supports Whitinsville Christian School T.R.I.P.

Masters Touch of Medfield, a one-stop-shop providing architectural, design and construction services, supports the Tuition Reduction Incentive Program, known as the T.R.I.P. program, at Whitinsville Christian School in Whitinsville.

For every project completed for families and potential students of the Whitinsville Christian School, Masters Touch donates 3 percent of the gross value of the project to the Whitinsville Christian School T.R.I.P. program.

By supporting the T.R.I.P. program, Masters Touch helps to reduce enrollment fees for families and support the Whitinsville Christian’s Tuition Aid Fund. For example, if a family of the school spent $50K on a product at Masters Touch, a $1,500 donation would be made on behalf of the family’s child who attends the school.

“By participating in the TRIP program, we’re able to support both the families in the community as well as this terrific school,” explained Doug Masters, founder of Masters Touch.

Whitinsville Christian School offers Pre-K-12 Christian education to families who attend a variety of different churches throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island. The school is located at 279 Linwood Avenue in Whitinsville, MA. For more information, visit their website at wcs.mec.edu.

The Masters Touch
Masters Touch is a full service design/build and remodeling contractor. With a team of more than 50, including architects, interior designers and project managers all working together, Masters Touch can handle all of a client’s home building or improvement projects and provide expert guidance to DIY folks. The company was recently named #249 in the “2008 Top 500 Contractors List” in Qualified Remodeler magazine.

Masters Touch was founded by Doug Masters in 1997.  From high-end design and build projects; kitchen and bath renovations; exterior painting, roofing and siding projects to flooring, interior painting and decorating projects, Masters Touch caters to homeowners throughout the Metrowest area.

Masters Touch is a Showcase Priority Dealer for Hunter Douglas and offers professional design and installation service.  The one-stop interior design and home improvement shop also offers Marvin and Harvey windows; six lines of custom and semi-custom cabinetry; over 150 types of granite and Corian countertops; paint; carpet; hardwood and tile flooring; home theater design and installation and much more.

The company offers written warrantees on all their work. Masters Touch is located on Route 109 in Medfield, MA.  For more information contact 508-359-5900, e-mail info@masterstouchweb.com or visit masterstouchweb.com.



Masters Touch Supports Whitinsville Christian School T.R.I.P.Read More

Where it’s easy buying green…DirectBuy provides one-stop shopping solution for green building materials and appliances.

GURNEE, HOFFMAN ESTATES, NAPERVILLE, TINLEY PARK, IL …

There’s a misconception among many consumers that buying “green” refers strictly to products made of natural materials. While that’s part of the equation, there’s much more to it. Like appliances and lighting that last longer and use less power to run. Or plumbing that requires less water. At the four DirectBuy showrooms of greater Chicago, members not only have the opportunity to purchase the full spectrum of green products under one roof, but they also can save some “green” buy paying manufacturer-direct prices.

Some of the “green” products available to DirectBuy members include:

●        Faucets and plumbing fixtures that offer low consumption

●        Natural cork flooring and underlayments

●        Flooring made of renewable natural bamboo

●        Lighting and ceiling fans with Energy Star ratings

●        Energy Star compliant kitchen appliances, washers and dryers

●        Cabinets treated with low-voc, LEED-compliant stains

●        Bedroom, dining room, living furniture manufactured by members of the Sustainable Furniture Council; many of these pieces are made from natural fibres, use eco-friendly foam and contain organic, halogen-free fire retardants.

“Consumers are always being encouraged to make ‘greener’ purchases, but there’s no real road map as to where to make these purchases and whether or not what they do buy is green,” said Dave Kushman, owner of DirectBuy of Hoffman Estates. “The green products our members can buy through DirectBuy have been rated by recognized ‘green’ authorities like Energy Star, LEED or the Sustainable Furniture Council so you know the green purchase you’re making is part of the solution.”

Energy Star ratings refer to the U.S.-government backed program ranking the energy efficiency of products. LEED, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is voluntary green building rating system, which is a consensus-based national standard for developing high-performance sustainable buildings. The Sustainable Furniture Council is a non-profit balanced coalition of manufacturers, retailers and consumers offering a public tagging program to identify good “green” choices.

“We all know we should be making greener purchases, particularly when it comes to products we use in our everyday lives like lighting and appliances. Unfortunately, making those wiser choices can be quite costly. By making all these green options available at DirectBuy, we give our members the choice to save money and valuable natural resources,” said Kushman.

Since 1971, DirectBuy franchises have offered members the opportunity to enjoy enormous savings on home furnishings, home improvement items, entertainment and outdoor products and accessories by buying wholesale, directly from the manufacturer. With four convenient locations in the greater Chicago area (Gurnee, Hoffman Estates, Naperville, and Tinley Park), consumers can enjoy a comfortable, country-club setting, where they finally have the financial control of buying direct.

For more information on a DirectBuy membership, you can call 1-800-DIRECTBUY or visit www.DirectBuyChicago.com.

About DirectBuy

Since 1971, DirectBuy has helped hundreds of thousands of families enjoy a better quality of life, enabling them to buy directly from more than 700 manufacturers and their authorized suppliers. Buying direct makes members’ hard-earned money to go much further, while having the selection and choice not available at any retail store. Access to confidential prices, local suppliers, and unparalleled selection helps make members’ dream projects a reality.  It’s a comfortable, country-club setting, where you finally have the financial control of buying direct. The four DirectBuy showrooms serving the greater Chicago area are part of more than 160 franchise locations throughout North America.

Consumers interested in becoming members may obtain a Visitor’s Pass to attend an Open House by contacting DirectBuy at 847-885-3508, or visiting www.DirectBuyChicago.com. 

Locations of the four DirectBuy showrooms serving the greater Chicago area are: DirectBuy of Gurnee, 4081 Ryan Rd. #107, Gurnee, IL; DirectBuy of Hoffman Estates, 2200 N. Stonington Ave Ste. 150 Hoffman Estates, IL; DirectBuy of Dupage County, 1864 Highgrove Ste. 136 Naperville, IL; and DirectBuy of Tinley Park, 18400 S. 76th Avenue Ste. B, Tinley Park, IL.

To learn more about the superior value and benefits of a DirectBuy membership, visit www.directbuycares.com.

Where it’s easy buying green…DirectBuy provides one-stop shopping solution for green building materials and appliances.Read More

South Shore Skin Center Launches Brand New Website

South Shore Skin Center, one of Massachusetts’ most progressive dermatology practices offering a wide range of medical, surgical and cosmetic services to thousands of patients south of Boston, has recently launched a brand new website, http://www.southshoreskincenter.com.

The sleek new site pops with fresh, colorful content; is easily navigable and chock-full of information and resources.

The latest in general and cosmetic dermatology

South Shore Skin Center offers visitors an “in-depth” look at the general and cosmetic dermatology services and products offered at their Cohasset and Plymouth offices. Dedicated to skin wellness, the practice utilizes their website to educate patients and the general public about skin diseases and conditions. They strive to better inform the public of the risks of sun exposure and tanning booths while emphasizing preventative measures.

As one of the most progressive dermatology practices in the area, website visitors will also be able to learn more about the latest cosmetic and anti-aging treatments and products offered at the practice such as Fraxel re:store and re:pair laser treatments, Botox™, wrinkle fillers, microdermabrasion, chemical peels and more. The site highlights a different Featured Product, Featured Service and Featured Facial each month on the home page and site visitors are encouraged to visit often to learn more about these products and any potential special offers that go along with them.

Get to know the South Shore Skin Center team

Visitors will have an opportunity to get to know South Shore Skin Center providers – the doctors, nurses, esthetician and physicians assistants – through bios and photos on the new site. A Resource page contains links to additional general and cosmetic dermatology resources. Recent media coverage, videos and press releases may be found in the newsroom section of the website.

Downloadable forms

Patient forms, surgical instructions and home care instructions are available for download from the website. The office’s policies are also detailed online for easy access.

“We wanted a site that was more interactive and pleasing to the eye that had the capability of presenting a large amount of information without seeming like a dictionary. We’re very pleased with the clean, new design,” noted Dr. Ramzi Saad, dermatologist at South Shore Skin Center.

The sophisticated site was developed by Shotgunflat Creative Agency of Middleboro, Mass.

Shotgunflat – superior websites for businesses

Founded in 2004, Shotgunflat Creative Agency designs and creates websites, web-based applications, email campaigns, offset and digital print, and promotional/marketing videos for businesses throughout the U.S. For more information contact (508) 443-0201 or visit info@shotgunflat.com.

About South Shore Skin Center

Founded in 1984, South Shore Skin Center is one of Massachusetts’ most progressive dermatology practices offering a wide range of medical, surgical and cosmetic services.

South Shore Skin Center’s cosmetic services include Fraxel re:pair and re:store; Gentle YAG, innovative Laser, IPL (Intensive Pulse Light), Thermage and treatments for age spots, acne scarring, birth marks, tattoos and more. The practice also offers a full range of affordable anti-aging services including Botox, wrinkle fillers, Microdermabrasion, laser skin resurfacing and chemical peels.

South Shore Skin Center offices are located at 223 Chief Justice Cushing Highway, Suite 202 in Cohasset, Mass. (781) 383-3340, and 45 Resnik Road, Suite 102 in Plymouth, Mass., (508) 747-0711. For more information, visit their website at www.southshoreskincenter.com.

South Shore Skin Center Launches Brand New WebsiteRead More

Attorney Michael J. Radin of Tarlow, Breed, Hart & Rodgers of Boston, MA named to Board of Directors of the Smaller Business Association of New England.

DATELINE:  BOSTON, MA…
Tarlow, Breed, Hart & Rodgers of Boston, MA has announced that Attorney Michael J. Radin has been chosen to serve as a member of the Board of Directors of SBANE, the Smaller Business Association of New England.

William R. Rodgers Esq., a founding member of Tarlow, Breed, Hart & Rodgers, applauded the choice of Radin, “We’re proud of Michael Radin’s many accomplishments here at TBHR, and we would like to offer our congratulations as he joins SBANE’s Board of Directors. We know that his commitment to building strong relationships with clients, along with his insight, creativity, and extensive experience will be an asset to the mission of SBANE.”

At Tarlow, Breed, Hart & Rodgers, Radin, who is a member of the bar in Massachusetts, California, and Rhode Island, specializes in guiding businesses through their life cycles, from formation, financing, growth, mergers and acquisitions, restructurings and wind down. He counsels clients on distribution systems including joint venture, franchise, and distribution/agency. In addition, he helps clients manage their intellectual property, including trademarks, copyrights, patents and trade secrets.

About SBANE
SBANE (Smaller Business Association of New England) is a nonprofit organization established in 1938 to promote and protect small businesses. Its 1000 member companies in six states range from sole-proprietorship service businesses and growing high technology firms to 200-employee manufacturing plants. SBANE’s programs and services address the shared interests and needs of its diverse membership.

SBANE’s member activities include management education seminars, conferences and programs to strengthen skills and sharpen strategies. In addition SBANE offers membership meetings featuring speakers on topics relevant to small business, an Internship Recruitment Service, timely publications, legislative activities to protect your company’s financial interests, and Health and Dental Insurance to address small business’s #1 employee priority.

Tarlow, Breed, Hart & Rodgers, P.C.
Formed in 1991, Tarlow, Breed, Hart & Rodgers, P.C. is committed to providing high quality, comprehensive legal services to its clients. Featuring a breadth and depth of experience and perspective usually found only at larger law firms, Tarlow, Breed, Hart & Rodgers. P.C. offers sophisticated legal counsel to entrepreneurs, businesses, individuals, families, and institutions.

Tarlow, Breed, Hart & Rodgers’ areas of expertise include corporate law, employment matters, mergers and acquisitions, litigation and dispute resolution, estate planning, taxation, real estate, bankruptcy, and municipal law.

To help clients make informed decisions and achieve their goals, Tarlow, Breed, Hart & Rodgers P.C. develops creative customized solutions for its clients by emphasizing careful listening and considerate evaluation. Utilizing the expertise and collegiality of the firm’s fifty plus members, associates, and support staff has consistently resulted in the building of lasting relationships of trust and confidence.

The offices of Tarlow, Breed, Hart & Rodgers, P.C. are located at 101 Huntington Avenue, Prudential Center, in Boston, MA 02199. For additional information, or to arrange for a consultation, please call 1-617-218-2000, e-mail info@tbhr-law.com, or visit www.tbhr-law.com.

Attorney Michael J. Radin of Tarlow, Breed, Hart & Rodgers of Boston, MA named to Board of Directors of the Smaller Business Association of New England.Read More

Dave Austin of Lift & Care Systems honored with Steven A. Hook Memorial Award at the 22nd Annual Rhode Island Independent Living Conference.

DATELINE:  LAKEVILLE, MA…
Dave Austin, Founder and President of Lift & Care Systems, Inc. in Lakeville, MA was recently honored at the 22nd annual Rhode Island Independent Living Conference in Providence, RI, where he received the Steven A. Hook Memorial Award. The award is presented annually to the person whose professional contributions exemplify Steven Hook’s dedication to individuals with disabilities.

The theme of the conference: Live Your Best Life At Home, Work and Play, could well serve as the motto of Lift & Care Systems, where Austin’s goal is to enable the highest quality of life for persons with disabilities, helping them maintain dignity, freedom, and independence wherever possible.

Almost 16 years ago, when Austin set out to explore the market for SureHands ceiling mounted lifts, what he found was an amazing community of persons with mobility problems who had varying levels of needs. Austin quickly learned that compassion, ingenuity, and a flair for innovative construction techniques were necessary to devise customized solutions for his new clients. Over the years, Lift & Care’s product line has expanded, along with Austin’s first-hand knowledge of the needs, wants, and likes of the people he serves, as well as their families and caregivers.

Austin notes, “What has impressed me most about the families and caregivers that we meet is their optimism and determination to help their loved ones or clients. It’s heartwarming and joyous to see the better side of people and to really make a difference in people’s lives, which is why it’s a very special honor to receive this award.”

Independent living with peer support is the goal of the Independent Living Conference: learning how to live life to the fullest possible extent with a disability. The entire community benefits from accessibility and persons with disabilities demonstrate that when given the opportunity they can and do succeed. The conference is sponsored by PARI Independent Living Center, Office of Rehabilitation Services, OSCIL (Ocean State Center for Independent Living), National Multiple Sclerosis Society – Rhode Island Chapter, Rhode Island Rehabilitation Association, Rhode Island Statewide Independent Living Council, The Corliss Institute, Inc. Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island, and the Rhode Island Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

SureHands Lift Systems
The SureHands system of ceiling mounted lifts enables thousands of users with disabilities to have easier access to the basics of bed, bath, or toilet. It is also amazingly able to assist persons with disabilities with everyday tasks such as changing clothes, standing and ambulating, or even taking a swim or mounting a horse.

SureHands patient lift systems are so remarkable that they have been featured on two episodes of ABC-TV’s “Extreme Makeover:  Home Edition.” During these episodes a SureHands lift & care system was installed to help make a home ADA compliant and enable the resident to transfer and accomplish his normal activities for daily living. This multi-directional SureHands system was mounted to the ceiling connecting the bedroom to the bath, allowing the resident greater mobility, free of floor based obstacles.

Lift & Care Systems, Inc.
Lift & Care Systems, Inc. is dedicated to bringing the highest quality of life to users and their caregivers by providing customized solutions that enhance users’ mobility. To achieve this goal, Lift & Care Systems offers a myriad of products, including: ceiling mounted motors and track lift systems, wall-to-wall lift systems, wheelchair-to-water pool lifts, and mobile lifts, as well as lift accessories such as body supports, a variety of slings in multiple styles, and a number of assisted body positioning tools such as frictionless slides and slide boards.

In addition, Lift & Care features curved or straight rail Bruno Stair Lifts for indoor or outdoor use, rust proof aluminum National Ramp systems, Power Access door openers, and a wide array of other solutions to meet the needs of their clients and caregivers.

Their products are used in private residential homes; semi-professional settings, such as group homes and day programs; and professional institutions, including nursing homes, hospitals and schools. Lift & Care Systems is the exclusive distributor of the patented SureHands patient lift systems in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut.

Lift & Care Systems, Inc. is located at 7 Precinct Street in Lakeville, MA 02347. For additional information, or to arrange for a free personal consultation, please call 508-947-3304, e-mail liftcareinfo@tmlp.net, or visit www.liftandcaresystems.com.

Dave Austin of Lift & Care Systems honored with Steven A. Hook Memorial Award at the 22nd Annual Rhode Island Independent Living Conference.Read More

“Go to your room!”…DirectBuy provides tips to designing the “perfect kid’s room.”

VANCOUVER, COQUITLAM, VICTORIA, AND OKANAGAN, BC…

While in the past, a parent yelling, “Go to your room!” may have been some sort of punishment, nowadays it could pass as a reward, depending on the design and furniture selection your child’s room. DirectBuy of Vancouver and DirectBuy of Greater Vancouver, the leading members-only showroom and home design centers, not only offer consumers a brand new way to save on home improvement projects, but also offers some helpful tips on designing the perfect kid’s room.

“A child’s bedroom serves as much more than a place for you kids to play. It’s a study, computer room, play room, game room, video/entertainment center and even a guest room,” said Jade Allen, owner of DirectBuy of Vancouver. “By following a few simple guidelines, you can create a room that’s comfortable for them to sleep and play in, but also maximizes the space.”

Some guidelines to follow include:

 

●        Involve your children in the buying of the furniture and decorating process; it’s their room, after all, and it stands to reason they will be more comfortable with items they helped select.

●        Take into account your child’s age, gender and how long the furniture will be used (e.g. bunk beds might be fun at 12, but at 16 your teenager might want some more space)

●        Only consider bedroom furniture that has quality construction and age-appropriate design. It is also a good idea to bring children along while shopping to make sure the bedding is comfortable.

●        Plan for growth – not just your child getting bigger but acquiring more things and clothing that will need to be stored.

Both DirectBuy of Vancouver and DirectBuy of Greater Vancouver carry a large selection of brand-name kids’ furniture at wholesale prices direct from the manufacturers and their authorized suppliers. In addition, DirectBuy employs product specialists and designers who can help parents and children select furniture and accessories to create the look you want for your child’s room.

“Sure, parents might lose a little leverage by sending a child to their room not being seen as a form of punishment,” laughs Allen. “The upside is that by creating a room that’s a haven for your child, they’ll be happier, which in turn makes parents happier. So everybody wins.”

Since 1971, DirectBuy franchises have offered members the opportunity to enjoy enormous savings on home furnishings, home improvement items, entertainment and outdoor products and accessories by buying wholesale, directly from the manufacturer. With four convenient locations in the greater Vancouver area (Victoria, Vancouver, Coquitlam, and Kelowna), consumers can enjoy a comfortable, country-club setting, where they finally have the financial control of buying direct.

For more information on a DirectBuy membership, visit www.DirectBuyBC.ca. 

About DirectBuy

Since 1971, DirectBuy has helped hundreds of thousands of families enjoy a better quality of life, enabling them to buy directly from more than 500 manufacturers and their authorized suppliers. Buying direct makes members’ hard-earned money to go much further, while having the selection and choice not available at any retail store. DirectBuy has been serving the greater Vancouver area since 1997. Access to confidential prices, local suppliers, and unparalleled selection helps make members’ dream projects a reality.  It’s a comfortable setting, where you finally have the financial control of buying direct. The four DirectBuy showrooms serving the greater Vancouver area are part of more than 160 franchise locations throughout North America.

Consumers interested in becoming members may obtain a Visitor’s Pass to attend an Open House by contacting DirectBuy at 604-552-5255, or visiting www.DirectBuyBC.ca. 

Locations of the four DirectBuy showrooms serving the greater Vancouver area are: DirectBuy of Vancouver, 2659 Lillooet St., Vancouver, British Columbia V5M 4P7; DirectBuy of Greater Vancouver, 91 Golden Drive Unit #1, Coquitlam, British Columbia V3K 6R2; DirectBuy of Central Okanagan, #5 2260 Hunter Rd., Kelowna, British Columbia V1X 7J8; and DirectBuy of Greater Victoria, 350B Bay Street, Victoria, British Columbia V8T 1P7.

To learn more about the superior value and benefits of a DirectBuy membership, visit www.directbuycares.com.  

“Go to your room!”…DirectBuy provides tips to designing the “perfect kid’s room.”Read More