Moving again? Are we crazy??

Honestly, we are a little crazy!  If you have been with us awhile, you know we ARE!  But in a good way!

As you recall, we relocated to Main Street Macungie back in February 2009.  We’ve had a fabulous time here.  It’s a great little town and we’ve grown tremendously with YOUR referrals!  Thank you!

Well, opportunity came and knocked!   An awesome building about a block away became available and we’ve decided to zip on down the street!  It’s the one in the middle, behind the tree!

We’ll be moving in mid-November, but nothing really changes for you!  We’ll have the same phone number, website and email address.  Our entire space is “first floor” so it’ll be easily accessed.  On-street parking is available, no meters!

We’ll be having an open house sometime soon.  We hope you’ll be able to drop by and say hello!  For you locals, it used to be Buchin’s Hardware…and long, long ago it was the Macungie Bank!   (19 E. Main Street)

It wasn’t our intent to move again so soon…but you know what they say about opportunities.  We’re really excited about it and hope you are, too!

Check out the inside!  We’ll have it ready for visitors soon!

19EMAINinterior

She’s all “A-Twitter” About Us!

We just got a really cool testimonial from one of our newest clients!   And because of the way we met, I felt the need to share!

By enjoying the various types of social media (Twitter, Facebook, Linked In), I’ve met people I would never have ordinarily met sitting behind my desk!  The conversations and connections have been great fun.

Recently, I answered some basic insurance questions for someone on Twitter.  Within a short while, we were chatting on the telephone and then meeting in my office to set up a new insurance program for her!

She kindly agreed we could share these nice comments with you:

I knew insurance was important for me to have but I was intimidated by the process.  I corresponded with Donna, then went in to meet her and go over everything.  She was so helpful, and broke everything down into terms I could understand.  She is even sending me a follow-up quote for another type of insurance that I may need. Donna really connects with people and I trust her opinion and expertise.  Thanks for a great insurance experience, and hopefully many more!

Thanks again, Amanda D. of Bethlehem!  We appreciate your kind words!

Woo hoo! You Like Us!

We are delighted! 

We represent Erie Insurance and guess what?   Erie ranks highest among auto insurance companies in satisfying new buyers with the purchase experience for a second consecutive year, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Insurance Shopping Study^SM released today.

You can see the actual ratings at http://www.jdpower.com/insurance/ratings/insurance-buyer-ratings

Since JD Power awards are based on consumer surveys, we are especially proud to represent this company!  To those who voted, THANK YOU!

Representing Erie Insurance, recipient of the J.D. Power and Associates Award for “Highest in Customer Satisfaction with the Auto Insurance Shopping Experience, Two Years in a Row”

What’s a PCL? (VIDEO)

My car is getting old…now what?

First of all, be honest in your evaluation of your car.

Most of us love our cars, it’s an emotional thing.  Some of us even NAME them.  Mine is sadly simple, “Subie”.

However, as they become older, it is important to be realistic about their value.  With insurance, you’ll be looking at “ACV” (actual cash value) which means depreciation is considered and you might not get as much as you would like, if you have a claim.

That being said, note that the comprehensive and collision coverage on your car add signficant premium cost to the bottom line.  Should you still be paying for a coverage that may not be worth it?

If the car has a loan, you have no choice.  You must carry the physical damage coverages until that is satisfied.  Once it’s “yours”, it’s up to you.

Depending on the model, of course, values can start to really dip when you are at the 8-9 model years old point.  Consult with Kelley Blue Book or Nada to ballpark your vehicle value.   www.kbb.com and www.nada.com

Know your comfort level for being responsible to repair or replace that car yourself.  If you have a car worth $2,500 and you can swing it, it may be time to save the premium dollars and drop the coverages.  If you only have $48 in the bank, then maybe the coverage IS still worth having, providing the car is in decent shape bodywise.

Remember, if it has dents, rust or other issues, there may be deductions at the time of the claim. 

Look at your car with a critical eye and be honest with your estimation.  Talk with your agent and see how much is at stake in regard to the premium.  Then make a wise choice for ‘ol Bessie.

New Program for PA Home Improvement Contractors

Business insurance is becoming a bigger piece of our agency!  Why?

More and more people are starting businesses now than ever before.  In a failed economy, folks who’ve lost their jobs have started enterprises that are an amazing silver lining for what had been their cloudy day.

As with your personal coverage, make sure to find an agent who will secure products that are affordable and able to grow with your business.

In the beginning, you may only need a “basic” liability policy.  Many of our “one-man band” contractors start out this way.  Then, as their business grows, we add the “bells and whistles” that will cover tools and equipment.  Sometimes a commercial auto policy is next.   And eventually, workers compensation for those newly-hired employees.

As your business changes, you will want to have your agent adjust and improve the coverage that protects it.  Be honest about your expectations  and budget accordingly.  With all insurance, you are planning for the catastrophic.  You may want to handle small losses personally.  Large losses are where you will look to your insurer for some help.  Keeping deductibles a bit higher will save on premium dollars.

Most homeowners’ policies have restrictions for your business.  Don’t assume that your “business stuff” is covered because it is located in your home.  There may be some low level of coverage extended, but don’t assume it.  Review your policy with your agent and see what is needed to address the business personal property as well as the liability exposures you now have.

With the new Pennsylvania Attorney General Contractor’s Registration program, insurance becomes an integral part of doing business.  Review the specifics at the state website, http://www.attorneygeneral.gov/hic.aspx?id=4313

Give us a call.  We have some great contractor’s programs that are comprehensive and within your budget.  Don’t even think of starting a job without it!

Who Are The Fun Police?

  Do you think of your insurance agent as someone who has fun…or who exists soley to discourage all that is fun and lively?

NEWSFLASH:  Most of us ARE a fun bunch.  We love getting together with family and friends.  We like a good time! 

We LOVE the 4th of July, too!     Yet, it’s one of the most dangerous holidays!

At this time of year we see far too many accidents, injuries and fatalities that could be avoided.   We urge you to think clearly and make wise choices when enjoying your holiday weekend.

• Driving–really, really pay attention.  Everyone else isn’t!  Did you know the National Safety Council estimates there are over 200 TRAFFIC FATALITIES and over 10,000 NONFATAL DISABLING TRAFFIC INJURIES nationwide from 6pm on 7/3 to 11:59pm on 7/4?
• Drinking–go ahead and have a brewski, but designate a driver right from the start!   Drinking and driving don’t mix.  Period.
• Swimming–cool off and feel like a kid again!  Supervise the children like a mother hawk and limit horseplay.
• Food–nope, we’re not kidding.  When you have picnics, be cautious about things that requires refrigeration.  Really pay attention to this stuff.  Make sure you’re cooking your meat properly.  Advise others of what’s in a dish to avoid food allergy situations!
• Bonfires–wonderful fun…but don’t let kids get too close.  Remember that fire can be mesmerizing.  Respect it.  Be sure it is fully out when you leave it.
• Fireworks–oh boy!  We could write a whole entry on this alone.  Every year, they cause disabling and permanent injuries.  Yes, even the small “at home” ones that seem pretty safe.  20% of emergency room injuries during this holiday are due to SPARKLERS!  Go to a nice professional display and watch the “big boys” do it right.

Be safe this holiday!  Your family (and your insurance agent) will thank you for it!

Top 3 Ways To Reduce Auto Insurance Premiums

1.  Consider higher deductibles!

      Only go as high as you are comfortable.  If you can’t handle it when the claim comes around, you’ve chosen too high of a deductible.  Talk with your agent and view the savings associated with making this change.  Huge savings can be realized, especially on youthful drivers!

2.  Don’t duplicate coverage. 

      Review how it works in your state.  If you have strong health insurance, maybe you can save on the medical benefits coverage.  Do you already have road service with your vehicle manufacturer?  Already have the Auto Club for towing?  Every bit counts! 

3.  Watch for discounts that apply to you, especially MULTI-POLICY & MULTI-CAR! 

       Most carriers really discount for these two…speak with an agent to find what other ones may be less common.  Some are automatic, some are not.  Is there a senior “accident prevention” program discount?  Driver training certification for teens?  Airbags?  Alarm system?  Anti-lock brakes?  Don’t leave it to an 800# or a website.  Consult a real, live agent who can find the right company and product for you!

Who’s Outside My Door???

Lock your doors.  Lock your doors.  Lock your doors.  Are we clear?

We all know we should be cautious and careful about locking doors…but there are some situations when we miss a beat.  Here at the agency, we make it a point to talk to our clients about ways to stay safe and minimize challenging situations.   We always talk about door locks.

Let’s talk about car doors, house doors, and more doors!

Even on a short trip, it is important to lock the car doors.  Most models make it really easy with a push of a button that’s already at our fingertips.  Some even do it automatically, so that’s beyond easy!  

Why?  Well, even in the smallest and safest towns, there are occasions when someone may approach your car while you’re at a stop sign.  I’m guessing it would surprise you if that happened!  When you’re operating a motor vehicle, being surprised is never a good thing.

Additionally, we suggest you always lock your car when you run into the store.  Even if it is just for a moment when you run in for one item, lock the car.  You have a key fob that lets you do it easily.  Why?  Imagine coming out of the store and some “undesirable type” is sitting in your car!  It has happened!  Is it easier to KEEP someone out of your car than it is to GET someone out of your car.  I think that’s pretty simple, eh?

Be “extra” smart with your valuables, too.  Just because your car is locked does not mean it is safe.  Avert the roving eye of the bad guy by making  sure your goodies are OUT OF SIGHT.  I recently parked aside of a car and the woman’s purse was on the front seat, gaping open, showing me her wallet, cell phone and more.  “Smash and grab” crimes happen everywhere.  Why make it easy for the thief?  Make sure your purse, camera, laptop, Ipod, GPS and all other items of value are hidden AWAY in a trunk or covered hatch.  Think about what is visible in your car now.  Need to make some changes?

Same thing for doors in your home.  Even when you’re at home, someone can slip in, grab a purse or wallet and be out again without you knowing.  Remember, too, there are OTHER doors in your house.  The French doors, the sliding glass doors, the GARAGE door…they are all points of entry and should enjoy the same care as your main doors. 

If you’re out cutting grass in your big backyard…is the FRONT garage door wide open?  Are you able to watch it the entire time?  Probably not. 

Did you park your unlocked car OUTSIDE overnight?  All the doors and windows to the house are locked tight!  You’re safe, right?  Is the garage door clicker inside of the unlocked car?  Guess what?  You have the key to your home readily available!

Yes, you can go crazy with some of this stuff.  You have to evaluate a happy medium for your family.  But these are some of the “real life” situations we’ve encountered over the years that we want to share so that you are better prepared. 

Brainstorm with your family and think of gaps in the overall security of your world.  You’ll be surprised how many things you’ll find need improvement!

We’d love to hear your top ideas!

What is FUNNY CAKE???

 I mentioned “Funny Cake” to a friend the other day.  She hadn’t heard of it!  Have you?   My mom always made it when I was a kid, so of course I have fond memories.  I loved this delightful blend of cake and pie so much, it quickly became my choice for my annual Birthday Cake.  Not much for candle placing, but it’s all about taste anyway, right?

This recipe will make two 9-inch pies.  You can craft homemade pastry or buy the pre-made ones in the store. 

The  mixture of chocolate yumminess goes into the bottom of the pastry shell.  Some recipes say to put it atop the yellow cake part and it will sink down.  You can, but THIS is the way Mom made it.

The Cake Part:

• 2 eggs
• 1  1/2 cups sugar
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp vanilla

 

The Chocolate Part:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup cocoa
• 3/4 cup boiling water
• 1 tsp vanilla

As I mentioned, mix up the chocolate part, put it into the pastry shell first.  Then, mix up the cake part and pour it atop the chocolate base. 

Bake for 35 minutes in a preheated 350-degree oven.  It should be a golden brown on top and bounce back a bit when you touch the top.

If you make it, let me know what you think!  Or bring me a piece!