Looking at insurance options in last week’s column, it appeared life insurance is where a lot of people fall short.
What’s that they say about death and taxes?
When I visited DeKalb Funeral Chapel last week, it seemed to be a logical progression to talk about getting our final affairs in order. I know, no one really wants to think about it, but whatever your faith everybody owes a death; it’s as much a part of life as being born.

DeKalb Funeral Chapel - 863 South Congress Blvd Smithville – 615-597-9400
I had the opportunity to meet the Hales at DeKalb Funeral Chapel this week to interview owners Michael and Tara Hale for their “Best of the Best” awards they both won this year. Michael Hale is a second-year winner, having been voted Mr. DeKalb in 2016 as well.
So I was gathering information for the article coming out in October, and figured it was as good a time as any to get some business information as well.
Not ever having met the Hales, I can see why they won the contest. They have such a great community spirit about everything they do. Have you heard the song by Tim McGraw “Humble and Kind”? That’s the best way I can think to put it succinctly.
“Most people only have to deal with the death of a loved one once or twice in their lifetime,” said Michael Hale. “It might be parents and maybe a spouse so it’s one of the most stressful events a person has to go through.”
They have pastored six churches in DeKalb and Warren counties and their business is more of a calling  than a job.
In addition to the multitude of services DeKalb Funeral Chapel provides, one that tends to get overlooked is pre-arrangement. It can help relieve loved ones of the burden at a time of great loss and you can reflect your exact desires and wishes. In addition, costs get locked in, protecting you from rising prices in the marketplace and avoid disagreements among family members who might not all be sure of what you want.
You can even do this from your home by going to their website http://www.dekalbfuneralchapel.com

AVA Computers – 306 E. Broad Street Smithville – 615-318-1630
Well, if you’ve read the last couple weeks you know what a computer nerd I am. So when I saw work being done just past the main intersection in town, I was in my element finding out it’s the future home of AVA Computers.
Mike and Andrea Rine just arrived in DeKalb County from Northern Indiana as Andrea is a nurse and they relocated as she is now working for St. Thomas. Mike is the mainstay at AVA and is optimistic he will be open in about a week.
‘We’ve got a 24-hour turn-around time on our repairs if we don’t have to get any special parts ordered,” Rine said. “We are going to do repairs for residents and businesses alike. We are also going to have on-site screen repair for cell phones.”
So be on the lookout for AVA’s grand opening so you can just stop to say hello and welcome our new neighbors.