Author: futurecemetery

Cemeteries are usually expansive landscapes located outside of towns and cities. They are independent from churches and other religious organizations, but they can still provide services for people of all religions.

Searching for cemetery records online can be a time-consuming process, but there are many resources available to help. These websites often contain detailed information about the deceased, including their birth and death dates.

Modern day cemeteries

The cemetery is a place where people go to mourn the loss of their loved ones. But it’s also a place where there is so much history and culture that’s worth exploring.

During the 1700s and 1800s, cities were becoming overcrowded with burial grounds. This led to fears of epidemics spreading from the miasma that was emitted by dead bodies. Furthermore, it was thought that rotting matter from the graves was polluting the city water supply.

In the modern world, many families choose cremation instead of traditional burial. This leads to the rise of columbarium walls, which are structures containing a series of niches large enough for an individual’s cremated remains. In addition, families may opt to purchase a commemorative plaque that is placed on the wall.

Burials

A cemetery is a place set aside for the burial of dead people. It can be public or private, religious or secular. It may also be a garden or mausoleum.

Most people who choose to be buried prefer their families to have an allotted space together at a cemetery. This can help the grieving process and give comfort to family members who wish to visit the grave regularly.

However, traditional burial can be very resource-intensive. The caskets are often made from wood and other materials, which require significant amounts of energy to produce. Similarly, the concrete vaults that surround them require substantial resources. And the headstones, which are usually carved from granite, also need mining and transportation. This all adds up to a significant amount of carbon emissions.

Monuments

A monument is a memorial that commemorates a deceased person. It usually features a headstone and footplate with an inscription. These can be personalized with a loved one’s name and dates. It can also include a message or a quote.

Many families choose to create a unique monument for their loved ones. The process can be stressful, as there are numerous decisions to make. Families must consider design and inscriptions, cemetery regulations, and Jewish traditions.

Another option for a gravestone is to use a natural burial. This type of burial allows the body to return to nature quickly, and it is a more eco-friendly choice than traditional burials. In addition, this type of burial can be more affordable than other options. However, it is important to note that this option may not be accepted by all religions.

Locations

Before the 19th century, most burials occurred in church graveyards. However, these spaces eventually filled up and a need for independent sites grew. Cemeteries differ from graveyards in that they aren’t a part of a church and are often located away from town centers to allow for more space.

In the past, families often shared meals in cemeteries. This tradition is now frowned upon, as it creates litter and attracts unwanted visitors. In addition, it can make the site appear messy and unsanitary.

Researching a cemetery can be interesting and informative. Making a rubbing of a tombstone is one way to study the inscriptions. However, this can damage the stone. It is best to take a photograph instead. Adding a mirror may help the photo come out better.

Rules

Many cemeteries have rules that must be followed by visitors. For example, they often discourage minors from being present without a parent or guardian. This is to prevent vandalism and other crimes. Also, they may have a rule against bringing pets. It is important to follow these rules because they help preserve the sanctity of the cemetery and keep it clean.

People should always respect the graves of their loved ones and never disturb them or cause damage to the cemetery property. It is also important to keep the grounds clean, as any trash left there can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. It is also a good idea to wear bug spray when visiting a cemetery.

A memorial park is a place to bring people together and provide comfort. It fosters community and promotes healing for families that have lost loved ones.

Miles of multi-use trails wind through the woods, a ‘picnic loop’ for road cyclists and softball fields are used by local sports teams. Concrete building foundations remain, fading reminders of the former army camp.

Peaceful and Serene Environment

The peaceful and serene environment of a memorial park provides a space for individuals to reflect on their lives and the lives of those they have lost. This reflection can help to promote healing and provide closure. It also helps to foster a sense of community and belonging.

While the words peaceful and serene can be used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings and connotations. The word peaceful describes a state of calmness and tranquility, while the word serene evokes a feeling of beauty and harmony.

Memorial parks are a newer type of cemetery introduced about 75 years ago that feature flat flush bronze memorials instead of traditional tombstones and incorporate gardens, water features, statues, and memorial architecture into the primary design. The primary design is often reminiscent of park-like landscapes with rolling lawns and large open areas that include a variety of trees, flowers, and shrubs. It can also include monuments and gathering spaces.

Affordability

Memorial parks are a more modern form of cemetery introduced about 75 years ago. They offer similar services to traditional cemeteries but instead of vertical monuments, they feature flat flush bronze markers on landscaped plots.

They are designed to promote community and healing for those who have lost loved ones by providing an environment that is both peaceful and serene. They also provide a place for people to come together and commemorate their lives with others.

These memorial parks serve as a physical representation of the shared history and heritage of a community, and they can bring people together by creating an identity that unites generations. They are also an opportunity for residents to express their creativity and contribute to the preservation of their cultural heritage. Unlike other parks, memorial parks are designed to be a comfortable and welcoming space for visitors, regardless of the weather conditions. This allows them to visit year-round, which is particularly important to many families.

Community

Memorial parks are often designed with the idea of fostering community. They can help to establish a sense of shared history and heritage by bringing people together, which can lead to the development of social bonds. They can also serve as a catalyst for healing for those who have lost loved ones.

This park is known for its outstanding old-growth redwoods and offers family camping areas, the Tan Oak and Mt Ellen Nature Trails. It is also home to a number of recreational activities, including hiking, biking and horseback riding.

The Memorial Park Community Center includes a gym and fitness room, where residents can participate in a variety of exercise and activity classes. The pool is open for lap swimming, open swim and water-based classes each day. The complex also hosts basketball and tennis courts for public use on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Events and Activities

While summer doesn’t officially start until June 21, Memorial Day Weekend marks the beginning of beach season, parks bursting with color and the return of outdoor events. Here are a few fun ways to celebrate the holiday this year:

Take a trip back in time at Old Bethpage Village Restoration for a weekend filled with parades, volunteers dressed in historic uniforms, museum tours and traditional 19th-century Memorial Day ceremonies honoring veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Honor the brave men and women who died serving our country during one of NYC’s many Memorial Day Parades. There are multiple throughout the city, including the Little Neck Douglaston Memorial Day Parade along Jayson Avenue and Northern Boulevard in Queens and the Kings County Memorial Day Parade through the Bay Ridge neighborhood featuring bag pipes, JR ROTC cadets, flag raising, wreath laying by Veteran Service Organizations and a 21-gun salute by the Veteran Corps of Artillery.

Embrace the extra day off and enjoy some drinks and barbecue at the House of Yes Memorial Day BBQ + Party. This event is 21+ and tickets are just $8.

The Bureau licenses funeral establishments; funeral directors and embalmers; cemetery brokers, salespersons and managers; cremated remains disposers, crematories, and hydrolysis facilities; and investigates consumer complaints. The Bureau also promotes consumer protection and educates funeral consumers.

You may offer bundled funeral arrangements, but they must be offered in addition to and not in place of, your General Price List. You must still give consumers a GPL and provide the required disclosures.

How does a funeral bureau work?

The loss of a loved one is the most traumatic event in most people’s lives. When planning a funeral, family members are confronted with dozens of decisions under great emotional duress. They must decide whether to bury or cremate the body; what type of funeral service should be conducted; and how much everything will cost.

According to the FTC’s Funeral Rule, consumers have the right to get a general price list from a funeral establishment. This should include all goods and services they have selected, including any third party charges for flowers, obituary notices, transportation and certified death certificates. They also have the right to receive a total dollar amount in writing before they sign a contract. This should include any unknown costs and unallocated overhead.

Once you have completed your formal mortuary science program you will need to complete an apprenticeship at a licensed funeral home. This will provide hands-on experience in the industry and can help you obtain a job after graduation.

How do I find a funeral bureau?

The death of a loved one is a difficult time. It’s a good idea to ask for recommendations from people that know the deceased well. These might include friends, family members, church and community leaders, coworkers and neighbors.

Anyone who enjoys working with people and helping others through difficult times might find a career in funeral services rewarding. High school students who are interested in pursuing this field can gain relevant experience through part-time or summer jobs at local funeral homes.

The Department of Consumer Affairs’ Cemetery and Funeral Bureau licenses thirteen different categories of funeral establishments; funeral directors; embalmers and apprentice embalmers; preneed funeral planners; cremation service providers; cemetery brokers, salespersons and managers; and more than two hundred licensed cemeteries in California. It also promotes advance funeral planning and protects a consumer’s right to choose a meaningful, dignified and affordable funeral. The bureau conducts regular inspections to ensure that licensees are following state laws and regulations.

What are the benefits of working with a funeral bureau?

Anyone who enjoys working with people in times of emotional need will find great rewards in a career in funeral service. As with most careers in the service industry, these jobs require a strong commitment to compassion and a willingness to work on an on-call basis. However, the average salary for funeral home workers is significantly higher than in many other occupations and benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; short- and long-term disability insurance; and a life insurance policy.

The Bureau licenses funeral directors, embalmers and funeral establishments; investigates complaints against cemetery operators and staff; and oversees funeral merchandise (which includes caskets, outer burial containers, clothing, monuments, urns, prayer cards and register books). The Bureau also regulates pre-need plans, which are prepaid contracts that help consumers avoid the stress of making arrangements after the death of a loved one.

Consumers have the right to a general price list from any funeral provider they contact, whether for at-need or pre-need services. The Bureau conducts undercover inspections of providers to ensure that they are complying with the Funeral Rule.

How do I find a funeral home?

When a loved one dies, family members are often faced with dozens of decisions to be made quickly, often under emotional duress. These decisions include what kind of funeral or memorial service to have, whether the deceased should be buried or cremated, and where to get help with funeral arrangements.

It’s important to comparison shop and choose a funeral home that offers services at a reasonable price. You can start your search by asking friends and family, checking online reviews and directories, and contacting religious or cultural groups that might be familiar with the kind of service you need.

Another good way to find a funeral home is to call the county coroner, which should be able to tell you which funeral homes took possession of the body and when. Also, check newspaper obituaries. If the person was a former resident of your area, call their school or college to see if they will be publishing an obituary.

Mortuary science is a field that requires many different skills. Whether you want to become an embalmer or funeral director, or even both, you’ll need a mix of formal education and hands-on training through an apprenticeship or internship.

Standalone morgues typically offer more direct services such as quick viewing for immediate family members and on-site cremation without a full offering of memorialization services. They are also less expensive.

What is a Mortuary?

A mortuary is a place where dead bodies are stored until they can be identified, autopsied, or released to the family for burial. Most commonly, morgues are located in hospitals and medical facilities. However, there are some private mortuaries.

Mortuaries typically have refrigerated compartments for holding the bodies of the deceased. They also have a viewing room where families can see their loved ones before they make funeral arrangements.

Many mortuaries offer cremation services as well. A crematorium is a more specialized facility that has a larger focus on memorialization than the typical mortuary. Cremation services can include a quick viewing for immediate family members and an onsite cremation. A funeral home can also provide memorialization services, including grief counseling and coordinating paperwork, the death certificate, and an obituary.

What is the Difference Between a Mortuary and a Morgue?

While some people use the terms interchangeably, there are significant differences between a mortuary and a morgue. A mortuary is a temporary storage facility for bodies, usually found in hospitals and medical facilities, while a morgue is a place where coroners conduct autopsies or other investigations.

Mortuaries prepare the remains for funeral rites or cremation by washing and disinfecting, suturing or packing openings, embalming (if necessary), dressing and arranging the body, and preparing a casket. They also handle transport and offer grief counseling services.

Standalone morgues don’t typically have a funeral director on staff, so they can only provide basic preparation services. They may also have limited or no memorial products, such as caskets, to choose from.

Morgues have a more forensic focus, and their staff members include forensic pathologists, medical examiners, and coroners. They also have specialized equipment for performing autopsies. They often store the bodies in refrigerated cabinets, which prevents them from decomposition and preserves their evidence.

What is the Difference Between a Funeral Home and a Mortuary?

The funeral industry can be very confusing for those who are not familiar with the terms used. Some of the most important words that are often misused or confused include morgue, mortuary and crematorium.

A morgue is a space within a hospital or coroner’s office that houses dead bodies for examination and storage. It is usually staffed by morticians who are responsible for the care and preparation of the dead body for burial or cremation.

Mortuaries that are attached to funeral homes can provide embalming, a meaningful funeral service and on-site burial or cremation. They can also offer direct services which are less expensive and can be more suited to families who prefer simple end-of-life arrangements or wish to adhere to specific religious or cultural practices.

Standalone mortuaries focus primarily on the mortuary sciences of caring for and preparing the deceased body. They may not offer a wide range of memorialization options and typically do not have funeral directors on staff.

What is the Difference Between a Mortuary and a Crematory?

Many people are under the impression that mortuaries and crematories offer similar services, but this is not necessarily true. The main difference between a mortuary and a crematory is that a mortuary focuses on preparing a body for burial and/or embalming, while a crematory simply cremates a body.

A mortuary typically employs embalmers, who sanitize and prepare the body for viewing and funeral arrangements. A mortuary also offers a variety of other services, such as arranging transportation for the body and assisting families with funeral planning.

A morgue, on the other hand, is primarily concerned with performing autopsies and other medical examinations of the deceased. It is often staffed by coroners and other medical professionals. A morgue also works closely with law enforcement agencies in investigating the cause of death. This is why the term “morgue” is more commonly used in the U.S. than in other parts of the world. Despite these differences, both facilities are subject to the same legal responsibilities and requirements.

A graveyard is a place where dead bodies are buried. Sailors used to call their shift from midnight to 4:00 AM the graveyard watch.

Many people use the words graveyard and cemetery interchangeably. However, the difference is that graveyards are usually located on church grounds or a part of the church yard while cemeteries are separate.

Etymology

Despite their seemingly negative connotations, graveyards can also be beautiful places. They provide a tranquil environment where you can spend time reflecting on the life of a loved one who has passed away.

The word graveyard comes from the Greek word koimeterion, which means “sleeping place.” From the 7th century until the early 19th century, churchyards were the primary resting place of the dead. At that time, rich congregants were buried in crypts within the church while lesser-wealthy ones were interred on the grounds of the church known as a graveyard.

Today, the terms cemetery and graveyard are used interchangeably as they both describe burial sites. However, graveyards are usually on church property and are reserved for Christians whereas cemeteries are independent sites that do not require you to be a church member to be buried there.

Due to their mysterious aura, many people believe that graveyards are haunted and are a haven for evil spirits, devil worshipping, grave-robbing, thrilling sex encounters, or other clandestine activities. However, most of these legends are based on superstition and not fact.

Meaning

When someone works late into the night, you might say they are pulling a graveyard shift. But what does this spooky term mean? And where does it come from?

During the Middle Ages, the church had a monopoly on burials. Rich congregants were interred in crypts, while less wealthy members of the congregation were buried on the church grounds in an area known as the graveyard.

As populations grew, the capacity of church-owned graveyards began to become overcrowded. As a result, independent places for burials sprung up that were not on church property. These new sites became known as cemeteries.

While it is still common to use the words graveyard and cemetery interchangeably, there is a subtle difference in meaning between the two terms. Graveyard is an older term that refers to a burial ground within a church yard, while cemetery is a more modern word that references sites that are not affiliated with any place of worship.

Context

Graveyards have the power to shape culture and history through their stories. The way they are used and the way we think about them tells us a lot about our society. They can show us things like how people live and die, religious beliefs, the importance of burial and remembrance, and the use of symbols.

The term cemetery comes from the Greek koimeterion, meaning “sleeping place.” It refers to land that is specifically designed for burial. It can include a grave or tomb, mausoleum, columbarium, or niche. It can also include any large park or burial ground that is dedicated to the dead.

Often, graveyards are full and have no space for new burials. As a result, families have to fight to get a grave site in the churchyard or another graveyard nearby. This can lead to conflict, e.g., over who gets to act as guardian of the graveyard. The conflict can also affect the quality of the graveyard.

Variations

Although the terms graveyard and cemetery are often used interchangeably, there is some difference between the two. A graveyard is usually a small area of land, often adjacent to a church or similar structure, where the bodies of the dead are buried. A cemetery is a larger area, often with multiple graves and a variety of burial options.

The Graveyard is a good card to use against buildings that spawn units like a Furnace or Elixir Collector, as the Skeletons spawn over an extended period of time and are difficult to defend. However, the Graveyard is a weak counter to other units that deal high amounts of damage per second, such as Guards or P.E.K.K.A, and it is also susceptible to area damage spells such as Arrows or Freeze.

A Skeleton Army or Goblin Gang are both strong counters to the Graveyard, as they can quickly react to the spawned units and destroy them before they have a chance to do any damage. The Poison is another effective counter, as it covers the entire area where the Skeletons spawn and can one-shot them easily.

Cemeteries today are more than just a place to lay down your loved ones; they must be vibrant celebrations of life, family, history and individuality – integrated within a shared community. This requires a specific kind of design knowledge.

Cemetery master planning begins with programming and analysis of the site. This includes determining burial capacity, mausoleum requirements, cremation needs, chapels and parking.

Layout and Architecture

A cemetery is a special kind of land. Unlike a regular lawn, it is set aside specifically for burials and other memorialization. Cemetery landscape design takes into account the needs of visitors and the cultural traditions of the area.

Cemeteries are typically larger than church graveyards and are organized into sections or rows of burial plots. Each plot has a distinct identifier that helps friends and family members locate the grave. This information is usually displayed on a map in the cemetery or in a burial registry.

Mourners often leave flowers or small posies on columbarium walls. Newer designs of these walls usually incorporate a clip or loop beside each plaque that can hold one or two flowers.

The first step in the cemetery layout and architecture process is to survey the grounds. This is generally done using GPS technology, but can be accomplished manually by a cemetery surveyor or civil engineer. The data gathered is then used to create maps of the property.

Hardscapes and Softscapes

The opposite of hardscapes are softscapes, which are the organic, living elements in a landscape. These include trees, bushes, flowers and ground cover. Softscapes help soften and enhance the natural beauty of a cemetery while providing a more welcoming experience for mourners.

Creating a balanced landscape in Powell, OH requires both hardscapes and softscapes. Hardscapes are the permanent features in a yard and include retaining walls, patios, driveways and sidewalks. Softscapes are everything else, such as grass, flowers and bushes.

Cemeteries serve as a meeting place between life and death, and they must be designed to reflect a variety of cultures, beliefs and lifestyles. Some innovations include vertical burial instead of horizontal, sharing coffins and stacking urns. Other changes involve converting cemetery spaces into parks for the public or developing forestry along with burial grounds. These changes can help alleviate pressure on the world’s limited land resources. Achieving these goals requires a well-balanced design and thoughtful planning.

Signage

Incorporating the right signage into a cemetery allows visitors to locate specific graves. Care should be taken to ensure that the design of these signs is sympathetic with the surrounding landscape and not overpowering.

Cemeteries are unique spaces that bring people together from many different cultural, religious and social backgrounds. They must be designed to reflect this diversity while also encouraging people to connect with their heritage, community and culture.

A cemetery must be planned to maximize burial capacity with an attractive layout for both pedestrians and vehicles. Proper grading and drainage are critical to preventing water from pooling on the site.

Burial sites must be planted with appropriate species for long term sustainability. Tree planting is important for shade, habitat and to enhance the natural beauty of the cemetery. Incorporating green burial options, such as shroud burials, reduces the impact on the environment and also lowers maintenance costs. By providing these alternatives, a cemetery can attract families and new generations of visitors.

Master Plan

A cemetery master plan helps the owner identify short and long term goals. It also provides a roadmap for implementing a variety of projects based on need. It is also an opportunity to improve the aesthetics and increase the marketability of a cemetery.

Traditionally the allocation of burial plots and the construction of headstones and other grave monuments has been the responsibility of individual families or friends. This resulted in a wide array of grave markers which can be aesthetically unappealing. Many newer cemeteries now provide standard shaped markers to make the grounds more attractive.

A non-traditional form of burial is the natural or green burial. This allows the natural decomposition of body matter and can allow for re-use of burial sites sooner than conventional cemetery lots. This can help keep older cemeteries viable and prevent their permanent closure due to a lack of revenue for continuing operations.

Cemetery is a place where a person’s final resting place is located. It is a place for dignified burials, memorialization and commemoration of the departed.

When visiting a cemetery it is best to travel with a friend for safety reasons and they can help you read inscriptions that may be difficult to see due to age.

Gravestones

A headstone is an upright stone marker that contains information about a deceased person. It usually displays their name, birth and death dates as well as an epitaph. It also reveals their status in life and their close associates, a valuable source of ancestor data for future researchers.

Gravestones can be made of many different materials, such as sandstone, limestone and slate. They are often set up with their cleavage planes vertical, to the delight of sedimentologists, who can see traces of the original rock’s sedimentary bedding and features, such as fining-upward, load and slump structures and erosion surfaces.

Those with epitaphs are usually decorated with symbolic reminders of death, such as skulls or winged skulls, the cherub head and heavenly crowns. They may also feature carved images of tools such as picks and shovels or emblems of trade and status. Using a headstone to memorialize your family members is an opportunity to create a beautiful monument.

Monuments

Monuments are larger forms of headstones and can be in the form of sculptures. These memorials are usually designed to tell a loved one’s story. Often, monuments can include more inscription space than headstones as well as additional images and designs. Most experienced monument dealers have indoor selection rooms displaying full size monuments to help families choose what is right for their loved ones.

A different finish from’steel’ and ‘pol’, it is achieved by frosting certain parts of the stone with a special machine. This gives a velvety feel to the stone and offers a more elegant look to your monument.

Standing taller than traditional headstones, these types of monuments may exceed cemetery height restrictions. They are typically engraved with a name, epitaph, dates and symbols. Slanted markers are a great alternative to upright monuments when trying to save on space or budget.

Maps

Most cemeteries have some sort of cemetery plot map for visitors. This could be a paper document or a computer spreadsheet. These maps are typically used by staff to help families locate their loved ones.

The biggest problem with using these documents is that they are prone to errors. This is due to the fact that managers often change hands and have different methods of doing things.

To overcome this issue, a more accurate and reliable map is needed. A digital cemetery map helps reduce these mistakes and makes it easy for families to find their loved ones.

Digital cemetery maps are also a great way to market your services to new audiences. By providing a comprehensive list of available property online, you can increase engagement and grow your business. This is all possible without reducing the quality of your service or sacrificing a family’s needs. By utilizing a cemetery mapping system that connects your owner and burial records to the maps, you can have more reliable data and improve your services.

Entrances

A cemetery’s entrance is its public face. This is where visitors are welcomed and comforted. It is also where the first impressions are made about a cemetery’s care and attention to detail.

Depending on its ownership structure, a cemetery may be private or public. It is important to know these differences when choosing a final resting place. Private cemeteries often have higher cost burial plot and service options, memorialization, and maintenance costs. Public cemeteries have lower cost options and may be subsidized by the local government.

In the 1870s, when Minneapolis stretched no farther south than Hennepin Avenue, Lakewood decided it needed to set itself apart from other graveyards. To do so, it built a grand brick gatehouse that proclaimed itself “the home of the dead.” It soon became a stop on the Twin Cities’ streetcar tour and even appeared on postcards of the day. This type of entrance is no longer common, but many cities still have impressive gatehouses as part of their cemetery systems.

A humbling sense of peace envelopes visitors at Memorial Park. This 673 acre park is known for its family camping areas and Tan Oak and Mt Ellen nature trails.

The Gold Star Monument is the newest addition to the Park. The void design of this structure honors those who have lost loved ones in service to their country.

Sense of Community

A memorial park provides a place for families to gather and pay their respects to their loved ones. It also gives them a sense of comfort and support when dealing with loss. This is a key aspect that needs to be taken into consideration in the design of memorial parks.

A strong sense of community is a force that is galvanizing in our culture now. This force seems to be driving people closer together and at the same time polarizing them into groups that are either supporting or attacking each other.

A memorial park is a great place for people to meet and bond with other members of the community. Whether they are there to play baseball, run, or enjoy the beauty of nature, a memorial park has something for everyone. There are many different athletic facilities at the park, including 2 youth baseball fields and 3 adult baseball fields with lights, 12 tennis courts, 3 basketball courts, a playground, and even a skate park.

Healing

Memorial parks provide a peaceful environment for families to visit and reflect on the lives of their loved ones. They also serve as a way to foster community and promote healing among those who have experienced loss.

Many memorial parks offer grief support groups and counseling services to help individuals cope with their losses. These resources help individuals share their emotions in a safe and supportive community and find comfort in their struggles.

In addition, memorial parks often host events and activities that bring families together. For example, the NYC AIDS Memorial commemorates more than 100,000 New Yorkers who died from AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) and honors the caregivers and activists who mobilized to provide care for the ill, fight discrimination, lobby for medical research, and change the course of the epidemic. These efforts helped reduce the number of deaths from AIDS and helped save many lives. This type of activism is a powerful symbol of the healing potential of memorial parks.

Artistic Expression

Memorial parks often incorporate public art into their design, and this artistic expression is an important part of fostering community and promoting healing for families. These memorials can also provide a physical representation of the common culture and history of a community, making them an important source of inspiration and comfort for residents.

For example, a bronze sculpture of three penguins by Blanca Will was recently installed in the Memorial Park’s Penguin Fountain, where it honors a longtime Gallery Council member and beloved teacher. This is one of many artistic works that can be found in the Memorial Park, which is also home to the Village’s most beautiful September 11th memorial.

Another public artwork is the Memorial Park’s centerpiece, a cantilevered pavilion of glass and fossilized Irish limestone that presents a theater of historical and contemporary sentiments about world hunger. This meditative space represents hope, unity and healing. The Pavilion is etched with a series of tablets featuring poems and quotations from Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, which encourage visitors to interact with the text by touching it.

Community Building

A memorial park can serve as a physical representation of a community’s shared history and heritage, fostering a sense of common cultural identity. This can help individuals process grief and loss, promoting healing and personal growth.

While a solemn ambiance may be maintained at a memorial park, it’s important to remember that these parks are also for celebrating life. By providing fun activities that help people connect with their loved ones, memorial parks can create a feeling of bonding and support among the community.

The NYC AIDS Memorial recognizes the contributions of more than 100,000 New York City residents who died of AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome). It honors the memory of those who served as caregivers, volunteers and activists who mobilized to care for ill patients, fight discrimination, lobby for medical research and alter drug approval processes, effectively changing the trajectory of the epidemic. It inspires current and future caregivers, health professionals, and activists to continue their work.

When a loved one dies, grieving family members must make dozens of decisions under great emotional duress. They must decide whether to bury or cremate the body, where to have the funeral and how much it will cost.

This board licenses embalmers, registers funeral establishments and investigates consumer/provider complaints. It also oversees private cemeteries and crematories.

The Funeral Bureau

The funeral bureau enforces the laws that regulate funeral homes, crematoriums, cemetery sales, and preneed contracts. Its services include complaint processing from consumers and licensees, licensing funeral directors, embalmers, and apprentice embalmers; inspection of funeral homes and crematories; educating the public about advance planning for a funeral; and holding hearings on disciplinary matters.

Under the Funeral Rule, you must give price and other information to any consumer who inquires by telephone or in writing for at-need arrangements. However, you don’t have to provide the General Price List (GPL) in response to a request from anyone who is not a prospective consumer who wants to make funeral arrangements.

Some funeral establishments enter into agreements with government agencies to make funeral arrangements for indigent persons. These arrangements may require special considerations and you should follow all requirements in the Funeral Rule. You should also provide a written statement to a prospective client that includes an itemized list of goods and services selected, the prices for each, and any other applicable fees or charges.

The Cemetery and Funeral Bureau

The Bureau licenses and investigates complaints against funeral establishments; funeral directors, embalmers and apprentice embalmers; cemetery brokers, salespersons, and managers; and crematories. It also promotes advance funeral planning and protects a consumer’s right to choose a meaningful, dignified, and affordable funeral.

The office is staffed by an executive director, an audit program director, an administrative assistant and field representatives. Field representatives conduct inspections of funeral and cemetery establishments to verify that they comply with state statutes and regulations concerning price lists, disclosures and other issues.

Before making arrangements with a funeral establishment, consumers should visit Web sites and several cemeteries to compare services, restrictions, rules, prices and endowment care funds. Ask for an itemized statement that includes all goods and services selected (not just a bundled “funeral package”). If the funeral home sells caskets, it must include prices for outer burial containers as part of its General Price List or on a separate Casket Price List.

The Funeral Consumers Alliance

When faced with the death of a loved one, families often do not understand their rights and options for an affordable, dignified good-bye. They make hasty decisions that result in unnecessary costs.

Funeral Consumers Alliance (FCA) affiliates educate consumers to help them save money by maximizing their choices. These local nonprofit groups, which are also known as memorial societies, offer clear and objective facts so that people can shop for a funeral home and arrange a service that fits their values and budget.

The Cemetery and Funeral Bureau licenses and investigates complaints against funeral establishments, funeral directors, embalmers and apprentice embalmers, preneed funeral planners, mortuary science schools, and cemetery brokers, salespersons and managers; and it promotes advance funeral planning and protects consumers’ right to choose a meaningful, dignified, affordable funeral. It also publishes a bi-yearly comparison of funeral home prices. This data is extracted from price lists that are submitted to the Bureau. Important footnotes follow the tables of price data.

The ICCFA

ICCFA is the international trade association representing all segments of the cemetery, funeral service, cremation and memorialization profession. Members include cemeteries, funeral homes, crematoriums, urn dealers, monument companies, suppliers and related businesses.

The ICCFA’s mission is to provide exceptional education, networking and legislative guidance and support to progressive cemetery, funeral home and cremation professionals worldwide. ICCFA members enjoy access to top-notch training and conferences, the industry’s most comprehensive business insurance program and other benefits that help them manage their operations and build successful businesses.

Poul Lemasters uses his unique background in deathcare and law to provide counsel to members regarding risk management, daily operational conflicts, form and contract review, valuations and other regulatory matters. In addition, he is available to answer members’ questions via the ICCFA Member Call Center. ICCFA also offers members the Cremation Central website, which provides training and resources in cremation operations, legal issues and arranging. In addition, ICCFA has partnered with Answering Service for Directors to offer the first-ever cremation hotline for members.

When a loved one dies, family members are confronted with dozens of decisions they must make in a short time and under emotional duress. Among the most important is choosing a funeral home, casket or urn and whether to bury or cremate the body.

The Board licenses funeral directors and embalmers; registers funeral establishments; and investigates consumer complaints. The Board also promotes advance funeral planning.

How do I find a funeral home?

Whether you’re planning ahead or making arrangements at the time of need, a funeral home can facilitate services that honor your loved one and fulfill your wishes. When choosing a funeral home, consider factors such as the location, price, and the staff.

If you visit a funeral home in person, under federal law the provider must provide you with a general price list (GPL) that itemizes the cost of the items and services the facility offers. In addition, if the funeral home offers caskets and outer burial containers, they must make those available to view and purchase.

Funeral homes often offer package funerals that may cost less than if you purchased the items and services separately. When comparing prices, be sure to take into account any additional fees for third-party services such as cemetery or crematory charges and obituary notices. The funeral home must also clearly disclose any state or local laws that require the purchase of certain products or services.

What are the benefits of working with a funeral bureau?

The funeral industry is an excellent career choice for those with interpersonal skills, a thorough understanding of the laws and practices that govern it and the ability to make sound business decisions. In addition, funeral directors are able to offer families pre-need funeral planning contracts that guarantee prices and services.

Consumers also have the right to choose a casket or urn they want, and providers must disclose this on their general price list (GPL). And, in accordance with FTC guidelines, the funeral home must allow consumers to wash and dress the body if that is part of their religious or cultural practice.

Moreover, funeral homes may help their clients arrange third-party services such as obituaries, flowers and cemetery and cremation services. This may be helpful for consumers who are making arrangements by phone or online.

How do I choose a funeral home?

Whether you’re planning ahead or in the midst of making arrangements for a loved one, knowing how to choose a funeral home wisely can save money and improve satisfaction. Here are a few tips:

Decide together with family members what you can afford. Then find a funeral home that can accommodate your budget.

Ask the funeral homes you’re considering to provide a list of prices, which they are required by law to do. This allows you to compare prices and services to ensure you are getting the best value for your money.

In addition to pricing, consider the funeral home’s facility. Is it clean and well-maintained? Does it have a chapel and space for a visitation, wake or viewing, if applicable to your arrangements? Are the staff compassionate and attentive to your needs? These are all important factors to consider. You can also ask for references from other families to gain an additional perspective. You can even ask friends and co-workers for recommendations.

What are the legal requirements for working with a funeral home?

The funeral industry is a high-risk workplace with a variety of occupational hazards. Whether you’re a funeral director, embalmer or mortician, or you work with them in some capacity, it is important to understand your state’s licensing and certification requirements.

Each person engaged in the business of funeral directing, undertaking or embalming shall have and maintain a funeral home license. The department may, after a hearing, revoke or refuse to issue any such license. Any person aggrieved by any finding or action of the board may appeal therefrom in accordance with section 4-183.

Each funeral home that conducts embalming must develop and implement a Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Control Plan designed to minimize or eliminate employees’ exposure to bloodborne pathogens. These plans must include the provision that employees be offered hepatitis B vaccinations, unless they have previously received the full hepatitis B vaccine series or antibody testing reveals that they are immune or the vaccine is contraindicated for medical reasons.