Protect Your Hearing Investment. Advanced Hearing & Balance Specialists

Dr. Lance F. Greer, Au.D., FAAA

In the 1987 movie classic, "Planes, Trains and Automobiles", big business executive Neal Page (played by Steve Martin) is trying to return to his family in Chicago for Thanksgiving after being on a business trip to New York City. His journey is doomed from the onset, inhibited by several encounters with Del Griffith (played by John Candy), a traveling salesman, who appears at numerous crossroads of Neal’s attempt to get home via several modes of transportation. These encounters severely delay Neal in what should have been an easy 1 hour and 45 minute flight from New York to Chicago and turns into a 3-day ordeal, in which everything that could go wrong, does go wrong.

That movie is re-written periodically in the lives of those who wear hearing aids.  If I were to come up with a name to this recurring movie, it would be called, "Dogs, Microwaves and Swimming Pools - The demise of Hearing Aids", unfortunately it wouldn't be as comical as a Steve Martin and John Candy movie.

Over the years I have had many of my patients who have come back in to see me who have lost or damaged their hearing aids through a variety of reasons.  One of the classic reasons has been, "My dog chewed it up." I even have evidence of this one.  Another classic was, "I got it a little wet, so I thought I would put it in the microwave for just a few seconds to dry it out!"  Yep, I even have evidence of this faux pas.  Another common reason in southern Utah is, "I forgot that I had them on when I jumped into the swimming pool (or shower)." There are far too many different reasons for lost or damaged hearing aids to be mentioned in this article.

Suffice it to say; in most cases there is help.  At the time hearing aids are delivered, quite a bit of information is given to you, the patient.  It is likely that in all of the information that was given, it was explained that your set of hearing aids have a manufacturer repair and loss/damage warranty that is between 1-3 years in duration.  This information can be forgotten if it isn't written down or provided on your purchase agreement.

Fortunately, if your set of hearing aids is no more than 3 years old, there is a good chance that some coverage is available from the manufacturer that produced your hearing devices.  We can verify that for you regardless if you purchased them through Advanced Hearing and Balance Specialists. Irrespective of the reason that you lost or damaged your hearing aids, your manufacturer warranty will replace them, one time, for the cost of a nominal deductible.

At Advanced Hearing and Balance Specialists we feel warranties for repair and loss/damage are investments that help you avoid having a "Neal Page" experience with your hearing aids.  We offer extended repair and loss and damage coverage for your devices up to 5 years old whether or not you purchased your devices through our office. 

Advanced Hearing & Balance Specialists has provided the area’s most trusted hearing and balance services for more than 40 years. With offices in 10 communities throughout southern Utah and Nevada, we make it convenient for you to receive the highest levels of care. We support research and development of the newest hearing technologies and the cure for hearing loss.  We always put our patient’s concerns first, matching each individual’s needs with the treatments and tools, which fit their lifestyle. For an appointment with a Doctor of Audiology at any one of our 10 locations, call 435-688-8866 or 800-548-0356.

Dr. Lance F. Greer, Au.D., FAAA, grew up in Heber, Arizona and has been in the St. George area for the past 14 years and is a co-owner of Advanced Hearing & Balance Specialists. His wife’s name is Shannon and they are the parents of 5 children. They enjoy traveling and spending time with their team of swimming children. He has been a member of the Dixie Sunrise Rotary Club and enjoys serving others in the community. in 1998, Dr. Greer developed the newborn hearing screening program at DRMC and currently serves as the Director of this program. He graduated with his Masters of Science in Audiology in 1997 from Brigham Young University and was conferred his Doctor of Audiology degree from the PCO School of Audiology in December 2003. Dr. Greer specializes in:

• Hearing Aid Sales, Service and Counseling Specialist
• Ear Mold and Hearing Protection Specialist
• Diagnostic Medical Hearing Assessments for Adults and Children
• Diagnostic Balance and Dizziness Assessment of Adults
• Vestibular Rehabilitation Specialist
• Industrial Hearing Conservation Specialist

St. George Exchange Club Honors December 2014 Students of the Month

December 2014 Students of the Month Honored by St. George Exchange Club

St. George, UT, December 16, 2014 — The December Students of the Month recipients were recently honored by the St. George Exchange Club.  The St. George Exchange Club sponsors the Student of the Month Program, which honors one student from the area high schools each month. This program recognizes the students’ accomplishments in academics, service and leadership in their respective schools. Dixie State University recently partnered with the St. George Exchange Club and will provide each of the Student of the Month recipients a one-year, full-tuition scholarship. 

The 48 students recognized each school year by the St. George Exchange Club equates to a commitment of over $175,000 from Dixie State University. The Exchange Club is honored to work with Dixie State University in recognizing and supporting the outstanding high school students of our community.

In addition, one student from the eight students honored as Student of the Month from each high school will have the opportunity to become Student of the Year for their school and receive a college scholarship to the college of their choice from the St. George Exchange Club. Last year, the Student of the Year, EmRee Moody from St. George, was selected as the National Student of the Month and received a $10,000 scholarship from the National Exchange Club.

The St. George Exchange Club meets Thursday mornings at 7:30AM at George's in Ancestor Square. For more information about the St. George Exchange Club, contact Shonie Christensen at 435-767-9000.  We congratulate the St George Exchange Club 2014 December Students of the Month.

Back Row:   Jacob Frei (Snow Canyon High);  Bryce Johnson (Millcreek High); Jed Newby (Pine View High for November)
Front Row: Billy Duffey (Tuacahn High); Barry Snow (Dixie High); Morgan White (Desert Hills High); Nathaniel Bennion (Pine View High); St George Exchange Club President Shonie Christensen

JensenBayles - Sheep Ranching and Estate Planning

Phillip Gubler and Tom Bayles

My great-grandfather earned a living raising sheep in Parowan, Utah in the late 1800s.  My father was always referred to as the sheepherder-at-law.  Dad retired and the sheep business continues with me.  Sometimes I wonder why I bought off on this idea of keeping a herd of sheep, especially if I have an unpleasant task at the farm in the middle of the night.  I suppose it is an effort to stay in tune with my ancestors.  

The wool from a herd of sheep is sold once a year at a wool market in Salt Lake City.  The wool quality is graded by a random sampling and sold in bulk based on that sampling.  It is not a problem for the wool buyer if some wool is of worse quality and some of better quality as long as it averages out.

In one respect, wool buying is like estate planning; there are some estate plans that are of good quality and some that are of poor quality.  A good quality estate plan will be written well and allow you to arrange for the management and preservation of your assets during your lifetime, provide how your assets will be transferred or disposed of upon your death, allow you to designate the beneficiaries of your wealth, and minimize taxes and other costs.  An average quality estate plan may work, but it may also result in significant delay and increased expense.  With a poor quality estate plan, you may have been better off to have no estate plan at all.  Estate planning is different from wool buying in that an average plan or a poorly written plan can be devastating to your estate and the law of averages will not accomplish your goals or console your beneficiaries.

The best way to obtain a good quality estate plan is do your homework and carefully select an estate planning attorney to assist you.  The legal system is extremely complex.  It is imperative when searching for an attorney to carefully select an attorney that primarily practices in the area of law in which you need assistance.  Thus, if you need assistance with estate planning, you should seek recommendations from trusted friends or advisors for an attorney that practices primarily in the area of estate planning.  Price is not always a guide since estate planning services are not a fungible good, cheaper is not always better, likewise, a more expensive plan does not necessarily equate to a better plan. You should be comfortable with the attorney you select and the attorney should take the time to meet with you personally, discuss various estate planning alternatives for your situation, and learn from you what you wish to accomplish with your estate plan.

I invite you to consider investing some time in your estate planning.  Estate planning is an invaluable tool that provides increased financial security and peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones.  A basic estate plan should include the following documents:  (1) Revocable Trust (a trust is not for everyone); (2) Last Will & Testament; (3) Durable Financial Power of Attorney; (4) Advanced Health Care Directive; and (5) various ancillary documents in a trust plan, such as a deed transferring real property, certificate of trust and a personal property memorandum.  If you are unsure if your estate plan accomplishes your goals, then you should retain an estate planning attorney to review and explain your documents to you.  With proper estate planning documents you won’t need to count sheep at night because you will have peace of mind and be able to sleep well. 

JensenBayles, LLP provides a broad spectrum of legal services.  Thomas J. Bayles has been actively providing advice in the areas of trusts, wills, probate and tax planning in the St. George market for over 15 years. Please visit our web site www.jensenbayles.com or call 435-674-9718 and ask for Thomas J. Bayles or Phillip G. Gubler. The information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be construed as legal advice.

November 2014 Students of the Month Honored by St. George Exchange Club

November 2014 Students of the Month Honored by St. George Exchange Club

St. George, UT, November 24, 2014 — The November Students of the Month recipients were recently honored by the St. George Exchange Club.  The St. George Exchange Club sponsors the Student of the Month Program, which honors one student from the area high schools each month. This program recognizes the students’ accomplishments in academics, service and leadership in their respective schools. Dixie State University recently partnered with the St. George Exchange Club and will provide each of the Student of the Month recipients a one-year, full-tuition scholarship. 

The 48 students recognized each school year by the St. George Exchange Club equates to a commitment of over $175,000 from Dixie State University. The Exchange Club is honored to work with Dixie State University in recognizing and supporting the outstanding high school students of our community.

In addition, one student from the eight students honored as Student of the Month from each high school will have the opportunity to become Student of the Year for their school and receive a college scholarship to the college of their choice from the St. George Exchange Club. Last year, the Student of the Year, EmRee Moody from St. George, was selected as the National Student of the Month and received a $10,000 scholarship from the National Exchange Club.

The St. George Exchange Club meets Thursday mornings at 7:30AM at George's in Ancestor Square. For more information about the St. George Exchange Club, contact Shonie Christensen at 435-767-9000.  We congratulate the St George Exchange Club 2014 November Students of the Month.

Back Row:  Chance Thorkelson (SCHS); Madison Browne (MHS); Shonie Christensen (Exchange Club President)  Front Row:   KayLee Fordham (DHHS);  Mary Quinn (DHS); Tristan Duffey (THS)

Rucci European Service

Rucci European Service

Rucci European Service, formerly known as St. George BMW & Mini, is located at 15 South Bluff Street in St. George and in Washington just down from COSTCO. This European service shop, operated by Nick Rucci, has been providing outstanding service to southern Utah and the surrounding area for the last 4 years. Equipped with state-of-the-art software to diagnose all electrical and software issues, Rucci’s has the ability to accurately read the system for all European vehicles. Rucci’s offers a dealership alternative for makes such as BMW, Mini, Volvo, Mercedes, Audi and Volkswagen. Nick said, “Our electrical diagnostic is heads above any local service center in St. George. We pride ourselves on our pinpoint diagnostic.”

A staff of experience and expertise

One of the skilled mechanics, Robert Dennard, is from Poland and joined the Rucci team 6 months ago. He brought with him a vast knowledge of European motorcars, including older automobiles. He also specializes in repairing vehicles from 1960 to 1990. For those automobiles that cannot be analyzed with software, Robert is able to manually diagnose any issues and make the needed repairs. Having worked on European motorcars for 39 years, Robert has a passion for his work, and his expertise has added to the strength of the Rucci staff.

What makes Rucci European Service different from dealerships?

Because there are a number of dealerships in the area, I wanted to know what really makes Rucci’s European Service different from other service centers. Nick said, “It’s simple, really. Our technicians and managers are not motivated by performance-based pay. The entire highly trained staff works together as a team, collaborating and assisting when needed to fix vehicles quickly, and at the highest level of quality.”

When Nick opened his service center, he wanted to offer something better to the St. George area. He saw a need for European auto specialization, and wanted to provide an environment of genuine service and expertise. He said, “At the dealerships, most technicians and service writers are paid commission or performance-based pay. This fosters a ‘look out for myself’ attitude and sometimes even motivates individuals toward unscrupulous decisions or actions.”

Did you ever feel pressured to do a repair or service at the dealership?

The mention of unscrupulous decisions or actions made me think of my last oil change. I went in for the $19.99 oil change, and walked out having paid $67.00! I was told everything that I should repair or replace in my car. It was probably true, but I usually feel like if I don’t take their recommendation, my car is going to blow up as soon as I drive out of the parking lot! So I asked Nick if that is just the way car repair service centers are. He replied, “Not at Rucci European Service! Stop by one of our locations and see for yourself: any person from our relaxed, happy team is ready to help you, not pressure you.” And he also added, “Always know that we stand behind our work for 24 months or 24,000 miles, and we try to offer the finest quality workmanship in the area.”

Knowing the European vehicles is the key to effectively servicing them.

Rucci also emphasized the importance of really knowing these European vehicles in order to truly give the best service. Rucci said, “My mechanics own European autos, and I personally own both BMW and Mini vehicles. This gives us extensive knowledge and experience that can’t be found elsewhere. Together, we at Rucci European Service have 59 plus years combined experience. This truly does make a difference as we diagnose and repair these unique and beautiful European automobiles. Many of our technicians have earned the highest level of training BMW offers, which is Level 1 Master. We take pride in the fact that we know every nut and bolt in a BMW or a MINI. Having two shops helps cut expenses, as we can share information and tools. This saves our customers money and time. We can honestly say we are better than the dealer in many ways, not just because we are less expensive. We invite you to drop by any location and meet our staff.”

So before you head down to Las Vegas and waste a whole day, stop in at Rucci’s European Service and see if they can save you time and money, and show you how automobile repair really should be.

Building in Ancestor Square - St. George Utah Now Available

 The Hardy Home in Ancestor Square

This building is located in Ancestor Square in the historic district of St. George, Utah, USA.  It is going on the market and if you would like to buy it before I list it here are the details of the building and photos. The Hardy Home was built in 1871 by August Poore Hardy, one of the first Sheriffs of Washington County.  It has 2880 square feet. It is currently being used as office space, but has been retail and a restaurant in years past. There have been recent improvements and paint to the interior and exterior.

It has amazing street presence and located in the center of town. The traffic count range from 35,000 to 45,000 vehicles per day passing by this building. It is near to any number of fine and established restaurants, retail, galleries, banking, and other businesses.  Its location offers easy access to the interstate and other main arteries across the county. The weekend Farmers Market brings people from all over to Ancestor Square on the weekends, as do other downtown businesses, restaurants and activities including St. George Music Theater in the Historic Opera House. Give me a call at 435-467-2103 if you would like to have more information about this building.

October 2014 Students of the Month Honored by St. George Exchange Club

St. George, UT, November 3, 2014 — The October Students of the Month recipients were recently honored by the St. George Exchange Club.  The St. George Exchange Club sponsors the Student of the Month Program, which honors one student from the area high schools each month. This program recognizes the students’ accomplishments in academics, service and leadership in their respective schools. Dixie State University recently partnered with the St. George Exchange Club and will provide each of the Student of the Month recipients a one-year, full-tuition scholarship.

The 48 students recognized each school year by the St. George Exchange Club equates to a commitment of over $175,000 from Dixie State University. The Exchange Club is honored to work with Dixie State University in recognizing and supporting the outstanding high school students of our community.

In addition, one student from the eight students honored as Student of the Month from each high school will have the opportunity to become Student of the Year for their school and receive a college scholarship to the college of their choice from the St. George Exchange Club.

The St. George Exchange Club meets Thursday mornings at 7:30AM at George's in Ancestor Square. For more information about the St. George Exchange Club, contact Shonie Christensen at 435-767-9000.  We congratulate the St George Exchange Club 2014 October Students of the Month.

Back Row:  JD Robertson (Dixie State University); Harrison Goebel (Pine View High School); Clay Staheli (Desert Hills High School); Courtney Atencio (Millcreek High School); Shonie Christensen (St George Exchange Club President).
Front Row: Addison Smith (Snow Canyon High School); Gabe Szczerbiak (Tuacahn High School); Emily Cottam (Dixie High School); Kyleigha Gibson (Millcreek High School Sept SOM).

JensenBayles - I am the Trustee or Personal Representative of an Estate – Now what do I do?

Phillip G. Gubler and Thomas J. Bayles, Attorneys at Law

            When someone passes away, you may find yourself in charge of administering the decedent’s estate.  You may have been nominated as successor trustee through a Trust, the personal representative (executor) through a Will, or the court may have appointed you to administer the estate.  As the trustee, or personal representative, one of your responsibilities is to determine what assets are owned by the estate or trust.  When you inventory the decedent’s property, will also need to be aware of how the property is owned.  There are four primary forms of ownership:  Individual, Joint, Trust and Beneficiary Designation.

            Individual Ownership:  It is fairly common for an individual to own property, both real and personal, in his or her own name.  Individual ownership will trigger a probate if real property is owned.  In limited circumstances individual ownership of non-real property assets can be transferred based on the decedent’s will without a probate.  

            Joint Ownership:  Property held in “joint tenancy with full rights of survivorship” will pass to the surviving joint tenant.  A certified death certificate and an Affidavit of Surviving Joint Tenant will be needed to show clear title in the survivor when dealing with real property.  A certified death certificate is likely all that will be needed to clear title on bank accounts held as joint tenants with full rights of survivorship.  The decedent’s fractional interest in property held as “tenants-in-common” will transfer to beneficiaries or the heirs of the decedent as if that interest had been owned individually.

            Ownership in Trust:  The decedent may have created a trust and transferred all ownership interest to the trustee of the trust.  In that case, you will need to inventory the assets and distribute as outlined in the trust document.  Utilization of a trust typically accomplishes a smoother transition of the assets to the beneficiaries of an estate with less cost and less time delay.

            Beneficiary Designation:  Certain property may be designated to transfer to a beneficiary at the death of the decedent.  Personal property such as life insurance, pay-on-death bank accounts, and brokerage accounts, will require a certified death certificate to effect a transfer.

      Taking an inventory of the property and its ownership is just one of the first steps in administering an estate or trust.  It is recommended that you retain an experienced attorney to help you through this administrative process.  Please contact our office and mention this article for a complementary ½ hour consultation if you are involved in trust or estate administration and would like to discuss the administration process in your situation.

JensenBayles, LLP provides a broad spectrum of legal services.  Thomas J. Bayles has been actively providing advice in the areas of trusts, wills, probate and tax planning in the St. George area for over 15 years. Please visit our web site www.jensenbayles.com or call 435-674-9718 and ask for Thomas J. Bayles or Phillip G. Gubler. The information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be construed as legal advice.  

BYU Management Society to Hold Luncheon on October 23

Speaker: Eric Pedersen, Ph.D.
Date: Thursday, October 23, 2014
Time: 12:00 pm
Where: Courtyard by Marriott, located at 185 South 1470 East, St. George. Cost is $15.00.
Notes: Please put in the email a reminder for everyone to bring a business card to enter the drawings for door prizes.

Please RSVP to Drew Gubler at drewgubler@gmail.com. 


https://stgeorge.byums.org/

About Eric Pedersen
Eric Pedersen is the current Dean of the School of Science & Technology at Dixie State University. Eric has served as a faculty member in the Computer and Information Technology Department at Dixie State University since 1989 and teaches courses on web development and tech entrepreneurship at DSU. Pedersen has also held numerous leadership roles on campus as he was director of the institution's business and development resource center from 1989-94, director of the center of excellence for computer graphics, and served as dean of continuing education at Dixie State from 1994-97. Eric received his Ph.D. in Management Information Systems at Utah State University and has conducted extensive work in tech entrepreneurship. He also holds degrees in Business, Economics and Spanish. In addition to his academic career, Eric is a successful entrepreneur. He directed a research team that developed and launched the first website in Utah. In addition, he co-founded InfoWest, the first regional internet service provider in southern Utah, along with several other tech companies and businesses.

Eric Pedersen, Ph.D.

JensenBayles: You May Regret Transferring Assets to Your Children Now

Attorneys Phillip G. Gubler and Thomas J. Bayles

Parents often think about transferring assets to their children outright or as joint-tenants during their life.  They may believe that the transfer will avoid probate and make it easier for the children upon the parent’s death.  Lifetime transfers are sometimes used as an estate planning tool in limited circumstances and may avoid probate; but, for most of the population these transfers could trigger unfavorable consequences.    

There are several problems associated with an outright gift of an asset to a child or children.  What if you regret your decision or realize later that you need the asset for your daily needs?  Your child may choose not to give it back, or your child may not be in a position in which they can give it back.  For example, your child could be involved in court proceedings with creditors or in the midst of a divorce, and now your assets look like they are your child’s assets, because they are. 

Let’s look at some risks involved in transferring your home to your child by gift during your life.  First, you may lose your ability to access the equity of your home if that becomes necessary for your living expenses.  You will not be able to apply for a reverse mortgage, and you may be disqualified from receiving Medicaid benefits if you need full time nursing home care.  What if the child you give your home to predeceases you?  Will your son-in-law or daughter-in-law take care of you? 

There are big income tax disadvantages, and maybe gift or inheritance tax consequences to giving assets away to someone other than your spouse.  Before transferring assets during life or at death you should consult with an attorney experienced in income, estate and gift tax planning.  In addition, you should never transfer an asset that you may need later in life for your health care, maintenance and support.

JensenBayles, LLP provides a broad spectrum of legal services.  Thomas J. Bayles has been actively providing advice in the areas of trusts, wills, probate and tax planning in the St. George market for over 15 years. Please visit our web site www.jensenbayles.com or call 435-674-9718 and ask for Thomas J. Bayles or Phillip G. Gubler.

September 2014 Student of the Month Recipients

The September Students of the Month recipients were recently honored by the St. George Exchange Club.  The St. George Exchange Club sponsors the Student of the Month Program, which honors one student from the area high schools each month. This program recognizes the students’ accomplishments in academics, service and leadership in their respective schools. Dixie State University recently partnered with the St. George Exchange Club and will provide each of the Student of the Month recipients a one-year, full-tuition scholarship.

The 48 students recognized each school year by the St. George Exchange Club equates to a commitment of over $175,000 from Dixie State University. The Exchange Club is honored to work with Dixie State University in recognizing and supporting the outstanding high school students of our community.

In addition, one student from the eight students honored as Student of the Month from each high school will have the opportunity to become Student of the Year for their school and receive a college scholarship to the college of their choice from the St. George Exchange Club.

The St. George Exchange Club meets Thursday mornings at 7:30AM at George's in Ancestor Square. For more information about the St. George Exchange Club, contact Shonie Christensen at 435-767-9000.  We congratulate the St George Exchange Club 2014 September Students of the Month.

Back Row:  Randon Coleman (Desert Hills High School) Chloe Condie (Snow Canyon High School) Shonie Christensen (St George Exchange Club President)
Front Row: Lauren Mickey (Pine View High School); MaKady Miller (Tuacahn High School); Nikki Andersen (Dixie High School)

Mark Eubank to Speak at BYU Management Society Luncheon September 25

The 2014-15 BYU Management Society luncheons will begin on September 25, at noon at the Courtyard by Marriott, located at 185 South 1470 East, St. George. http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/sgucy-courtyard-st-george/.  Our guest speaker will be Mark Eubank.

Cost is $15.00. Please RSVP to Drew Gubler at drewgubler@gmail.com.

Mark Eubank

Mark Eubank is the former chief broadcasting meteorologist for KSL TV in Salt Lake City, Utah. Mark joined the KSL-TV channel 5 Television news team in 1990. Prior to KSL, he was employed as a meteorologist for KUTV channel 2 in Utah, a position he held since 1967. Eubank began his meteorology career at age 24 in Redding, California, at KRCR-TV. Mark also served as chief meteorologist for the 2002 Winter Olympics. He attended UCLA and graduated from the University of Utah in 1972 with a Bachelors of Science in Meteorology. Eubank also owned and operated a weather consulting firm, WeatherBank, Inc. for 20 years.

On November 29, 2006, Mark signed off the air for the final time. He passed his job and white coat to his son Kevin Eubank. Shortly after retiring, Mark and his wife served two missions for the LDS Church; first they served a one year mission in St. George, Utah and then at the Laie Hawaii temple visitors center for three years where Mark served as the director of the visitors center.

Mark Eubank is married to his lovely wife Jean and has 7 children and 17 grandchildren.

Hearing Loss and Healthy Aging - Advanced Hearing & Balance

Hearing Loss and Healthy Aging

Healthy aging is a popular topic of interest. Studies have found there are connections between healthy aging and hearing loss. Hearing loss is a very common issue. It can affect nearly every portion of a person’s life.  People who have a hearing loss who can effectively use hearing devices and communications strategies may find they are able to improve their quality of life and age healthier.

About 2% of children and 7% of people under the age of 65 have a hearing loss. This percentage traumatically increases past the age of 65. About 40% of people between the ages of 65 and 84 have hearing losses. The percentage of people who have a hearing loss increases again when they past the age of 85 to about 66%. As people age they want to be able to maintain their independence, perceive themselves as healthy, be socially active, and maintain their cognition and physical abilities. Having a hearing loss greatly affects these goals if not appropriately diagnosed and treated.

As just mentioned above healthy aging includes many aspects and studies have made connections between these aspects and hearing loss. Some of these studies suggest that people with poor hearing are at an increased risk of falls, disabilities and traffic accidents. They have less functional reserve and find it more difficult to do two things at once.  Hearing loss has also been found to be associated with brain atrophy, dementia and even mortality. 

The last thing any of us want to have happen as we age is to be unhealthy and isolate ourselves from the experiences and relationships that matter so much to us.  Having a hearing loss that goes undiagnosed, untreated or thought of as something that is not “that big of a deal” could eventually lead to these effects. The connection between hearing loss and aging healthy is real and important. By being able to effectively use hearing devices and communication strategies people with a hearing loss may be able to improve their quality of life and age healthier.

Eric Bunnell, Doctoral Intern

Eric Bunnell is a doctoral intern for Advanced Hearing and Balance Specialists and will be graduating in May of 2015 from Utah State University. He grew up in Ogden, graduated high school and then served a two-year LDS mission in Brazil. Eric has been married to his beautiful wife, Katie, since June of 2007. They have two boys, Samuel who is four and Kij who is one. They also have two dogs, a lab and a beaglador. He loves spending time with his family and enjoys exercising.  

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF A REVOCABLE TRUST? JensenBayles Attorneys & Counselors at Law

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Phillip G. Gubler and Thomas J. Bayles

When people think of how they would like their assets distributed following their death, they usually think of using a Will.  However, depending on your assets, a Will may not be the best testamentary document to use.  Creating a Revocable Trust provides a number of advantages over a Will.
 

1.     When you transfer your assets to your Revocable Trust, your family will not have to go through the probate process.  Probate is a legal process in which the court supervises the administration of your estate.  Probate can be time consuming and costly to your family who will already be dealing with feelings of grief. With a Revocable Trust, your Trustee can immediately assume responsibility to manage or distribute your assets as you outlined in your Trust.  Since you will not be alive when your probate occurs, it will be your beneficiaries who will benefit from your efforts to avoid probate by creating a Revocable Trust. 

2.     A Revocable Trust can also help avoid additional probate proceedings if you own property in more than one state.  You may not realize that real property ownership in multiple states can result in probate proceedings in each state in which you own real property.  Property owned outside your state of residency can be transferred to a Revocable Trust while you are living to avoid probate in the state where the real property is owned.  Multiple probate proceedings are costly and time consuming.

3.     If you become incapacitated and cannot manage your own financial affairs, your family may need to file a Guardianship proceeding to establish a guardian for your benefit.  With a Revocable Trust, however, your Trustee can assume responsibility to protect and manage your assets for your benefit as long as you are incapacitated.  This can happen immediately and again can save time and money. 

4.     You can maintain your privacy with a Revocable Trust.  Probate proceedings are generally open to the public.  A Revocable Trust can provide privacy to you and your family members by avoiding the probate process.

5.     One of the best features about a Revocable Trust is that while you are alive, you have the right to alter, amend or revoke – which means you have flexibility.  Circumstances change -- you may get married or divorced, you may acquire or sell assets and agents or beneficiaries may no longer be viable.  With the flexibility of a Revocable Trust, you can plan to avoid probate, and make changes as you deem appropriate.

A Revocable Trust provides many advantages which include simplifying administration after death resulting in cost savings to your estate, management of your assets during your life and after death, the trust is more private, and you have flexibility to make changes.  If you would like to discuss the benefits of a Revocable Trust in your situation, then please contact our office for a complementary ½ hour consultation. 

JensenBayles, LLP provides a broad spectrum of legal services.  Thomas J. Bayles has been actively providing advice in the areas of trusts, wills, probate and tax planning in the St. George for over 15 years. Please visit our web site www.jensenbayles.com or call 435-674-9718 and ask for Thomas J. Bayles or Phillip G. Gubler. The information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be construed as legal advice.