http://www.allaccessquote.com/blog/View All Access Agency Insurance's Website Blogen-uspostmaster@www.allaccessquote.comInsurance Website Builder - www.insurancewebsitebuilder.comurn:uuid:17641380-2c59-4ab1-95fd-43d19b46fbb9urn:uuid:51873e11-f4a4-4391-b159-2f0d4d41150fEstate planning is the process of anticipating and arranging for the disposal of an estate. Estate planning typically attempts to eliminate uncertainties over the administration of a probate and maximize the value of the estate by reducing taxes and ...Thu, 03 Nov 2011 11:08:30 -0500<strong>Estate planning</strong> is the process of anticipating and arranging for the disposal of an estate. Estate planning typically attempts to eliminate uncertainties over the administration of a probate and maximize the value of the estate by reducing taxes and other expenses. Guardians are often designated for minor children and beneficiaries in incapacity<br /> <br /> .Estate planning involves the will, trusts, beneficiary designations, powers of appointment, property ownership&nbsp; (joint tenancy) with rights of survivorship, tenancy in common, tenancy by the entirety), gift, and powers of attorney, specifically the durable financial power of attorney and the durable medical power of attorney. After widespread litigation and media coverage surrounding the Terri Schiavo case, many estate planning attorneys now advise clients to also create a living will. Specific final arrangements, such as whether to be buried or cremated, are also often part of the documents. More sophisticated estate plans may even cover deferring or decreasing estate taxes or winding up a business.<br /> <br /> The tax code allows people to set up charitable remainder trusts and set up qualified personal residence trusts to own their personal residence yet leave it to their children without estate tax.<br /> <br /> Because the United States tax code does not tax life insurance proceeds as income, a <strong>life insurance trust</strong> could be used to pay estate taxes. However, if the decedent holds any incidents of ownership like the ability to remove or change beneficiary, the proceeds will remain in his estate. For this reason, the trust vehicle is used to own the life insurance policy and it must be irrevocable to avoid inclusion in the estate.<br /> <br /> Mediation serves as an alternative to a full-scale litigation to settle disputes. At a mediation, family members and beneficiaries discuss plans on transfer of assets. Because of the potential conflicts associated with blended families, step siblings, and multiple marriages, creating an estate plan through mediation allows people to confront the issues head-on and design a plan that will minimize the chance of future family conflict and meet their financial goals.urn:uuid:dd127879-b130-438c-8d09-453d0c1c1e32 Corporate-owned life insurance (COLI), also known as dead peasant life insurance&nbsp; or janitors insurance, is life insurance on employees' lives that is owned by the employer, with benefits payable to the employer. When the employer is a bank, it...Fri, 21 Oct 2011 12:26:02 -0500<div style="text-align: left; background-color: transparent; color: #000000; overflow: hidden; text-decoration: none;border: medium none;"> <p itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="243"><b itxtNodeId="276" itxtBad="1">Corporate-owned life insurance</b> (<b itxtNodeId="275" itxtBad="1">COLI</b>), also known as <b itxtNodeId="274" itxtBad="1">dead peasant life insurance&nbsp;</b> or <b itxtNodeId="272" itxtBad="1">janitors insurance</b>, is life insurance on employees' lives that is owned by the employer, with benefits payable to the employer. When the employer is a bank, it is known as a <b itxtNodeId="269" itxtBad="1">bank owned life insurance (BOLI)</b>.</p> <p itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="242">COLI was originally purchased on the lives of key employees and executives by a company to hedge against the financial cost of losing key employees to unexpected death, the risk of recruiting and training replacements of necessary or highly-trained personnel, or to fund corporate obligations to redeem stock upon the death of an owner. This use is commonly known as "key man"&nbsp; or "key person" insurance. Although this article refers only to practice and policy in the United States, key person insurance is used in other countries as well.</p> <p itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="241">Primarily in the 1990s, some companies aggressively insured a broad base of employees, sometimes without the employee's knowledge and consent. Additionally, the premiums for this insurance were leveraged&nbsp;and deducted, in essence creating a transaction with little or no economic substance &ndash; the company essentially put up none of their own money, and received minimal death benefits long term, but gathered significant interest deductions over time &ndash; the only "real" value to the transaction. In 2006, the U.S. Congress and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) set some guidelines and limits on this practice.</p> <p itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="240">Today, COLI is most common for senior executives of a firm, but its use for general employees is still sometimes practiced, primarily as a real economic transaction for Voluntary Employee Benefit Associations (VEBAs).</p> <br /> <br /> Read more: <a href="http://www.answers.com/topic/corporate-owned-life-insurance#ixzz1bRCul4pM" style="color: #003399;">http://www.answers.com/topic/corporate-owned-life-insurance#ixzz1bRCul4pM</a></div>urn:uuid:d9ef941e-0725-46ae-a0a1-3dd291aef5b3As many as 8.3 percent of teens suffer from depression for at least a year at a time, compared to about 5.3 percent of the general population. Three in ten teenage girls (31%) become pregnant at least once before they reach the age of 20. These stati...Tue, 20 Sep 2011 09:59:48 -0500<div id="yui_3_2_0_1_1316530198468139"><span style="font-size: 18px;">As many as 8.3 percent of teens suffer from depression for at least a year at a time, compared to about 5.3 percent of the general population. Three in ten teenage girls (31%) become pregnant at least once before they reach the age of 20. These statistics are examples of the obstacles our youth face daily and reason why The Least of These (a division of Not By Bread Alone) seeks support to address these topics through An Evening of Jazz on Saturday, October 15..</span></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt;"> <div style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div id="yiv1230672122"> <div style="background-color: #fff; color: #000; font-size: 14pt;"> <div style="font-size: 14pt;"> <div class="yiv1230672122ms__id2317" id="yiv1230672122" style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div style="background-color: #fff; color: #000; font-size: 14pt;"> <div style="font-size: 14pt;"> <div style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div id="yiv1230672122"> <div style="background-color: #fff; color: #000; font-size: 14pt;"> <div style="font-size: 14pt;"> <div style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div id="yiv1230672122"> <div style="background-color: #fff; color: #000; font-size: 14pt;"> <div><br /> All proceeds from An Evening of Jazz will benefit The Least of These, whose mission is to assist young boys and girls realize their full potential for a better tomorrow. The event will feature the musical talents of Neo4; the hosting skills of Janice Mathis, Vice President and Atlanta Bureau Chief of The Rainbow PUSH Coalition; and a silent auction of products and services to raise funds to continue the goal of helping Atlanta&rsquo;s youth. </div> <div><br /> Some contributions are tax deductible - Tax I.D. 27-0217004. </div> <div class="yiv1230672122contentTitle">&nbsp;</div> <div class="yiv1230672122contentTitle"><var id="yiv1230672122yui-ie-cursor"></var>The Least of These</div> <div class="yiv1230672122contentText"> <div><br /> The Least of These is a division of the non-profi<var id="yiv1230672122yui-ie-cursor"></var>t organization, Not By Bread Alone. Our mission is to assist young boys and girls realize their full potential for a better tomorrow.</div> <br /> <div>In Matthew 25, Jesus says &ldquo;when you&rsquo;ve done service unto the least of these you&rsquo;ve done it unto me&rdquo;. In Matthew 19 he says, &ldquo;to suffer the little children, and forbid them not, to come after me; for of such is the kingdom of Heaven&rdquo;. Children are the future for this world, and we need your assistance to ensure their destiny is achieved. </div> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;">Please join us for An Evening of Jazz, fun and funds to help ensure each child has a future.</div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nbbalone.org/jazz" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.nbbalone.org/jazz</a><var id="yiv1230672122yui-ie-cursor"></var></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="yiv1230672122ms__id2315" style="font-size: 14pt;">&nbsp;</div> <div class="yiv1230672122ms__id2315" style="font-size: 14pt;">Greg Palmer</div> <div class="yiv1230672122ms__id2315 yiv1230672122ms__id4614" style="font-size: 14pt;">404-484-3638<var id="yiv1230672122yui-ie-cursor"></var></div> <div class="yiv1230672122ms__id2315" style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="http://www.nbbalone.org/jazz" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.nbbalone.org/jazz</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div>urn:uuid:8c157099-ddee-4eb2-a397-5427a1b7df1e Children of driving age can usually be insured on a parent's auto insurance policy for any length of time as long as they live in the parent's household. However, whether a teen who goes away to college can continue to be insured on his parents' pol...Tue, 05 Jul 2011 10:51:17 -0500<div style="text-align: left; background-color: transparent; color: #000000; overflow: hidden; text-decoration: none;border: medium none;"> <p class="intro" id="intelliTxt" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="0">Children of driving age can usually be insured on a parent's auto insurance policy for any length of time as long as they live in the parent's household. However, whether a teen who goes away to college can continue to be insured on his parents' policy may depend on the proximity of the school from the parents' home, as well as on the policies of the insurance provider.</p> <section class="Module body FLC" /><section /> <ol class="generic" id="intelliTxt" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="3"> <li class="section" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="4"> <h2 class="header Heading3" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="18">Considerations</h2> <ul itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="17"> <li class="step" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="19"> <div class="stepMeat" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="20"> <div itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="21" itemprop="step"> <p itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="22">Parents insuring a female teenage driver can expect their auto insurance premium to increase by as much as 50 percent; insuring a male teenage driver can increase premiums by 100 percent. When a teenager first begins to drive, it is usually cheaper for a parent to add him to an existing auto insurance policy. However, the rates rise significantly because of teenagers' increased risk of accidents. Keep in mind that if a teenager is involved in an accident or receives a traffic violation, auto insurance premiums will rise even more. Still, it may be cheaper than taking out a separate policy for a teenage driver, especially if your child only occasionally drives the family vehicle. If your teenager buys his own vehicle, though, you might want to purchase a separate policy.</p> </div> </div> </li> </ul> <h2 class="header Heading3" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="16">Features</h2> <ul itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="15"> <li class="step" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="24"> <div class="stepMeat" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="25"> <div itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="26" itemprop="step"> <p itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="27">Some auto insurance companies offer discounts when a child is living away at college. Normally, this type of discount applies if your child is attending a school located at least 100 miles from home, and does not take a vehicle to the school. Many companies also offer discounts if young drivers earn good grades in school or complete a recognized driver's education course.</p> </div> </div> </li> </ul> <h2 class="header Heading3" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="14">Identification</h2> <ul itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="13"> <li class="step" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="28"> <div class="stepMeat" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="29"> <div itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="30" itemprop="step"> <p itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="31">According to the Insurance Information Institute, the kind of vehicle a teenager drives affects the premium. Vehicles that handle better and offer protection in an accident are often insured at lower rates. Vehicles with a tire pressure monitoring system, daytime running lights, all-wheel drive and anti-lock disc brakes can help a driver avoid hazardous driving situations, lowering insurance premiums. Higher insurance rates are charged for vehicles that can travel at high speeds because they can encourage reckless driving. Trucks and SUVs are also more expensive to insure, as these types of vehicles are more likely to roll over when involved in a collision. Economy-model vehicles tend to be cheaper to insure than more expensive models.</p> </div> </div> </li> </ul> <h2 class="header Heading3" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="12">Significance</h2> <ul itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="11"> <li class="step" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="32"> <div class="stepMeat" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="33"> <div itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="34" itemprop="step"> <p itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="35">Because teenage drivers are inexperienced, they are more likely to be involved in automobile accidents, so it may be a good idea to increase liability limits for additional protection. Notify your insurance agent as soon as your teenager begins to drive. Most companies will continue to insure a child on the same policy if the child attends college in the same state in which the parents permanently reside. Some companies will insure a child who attends a college in another state as an occasional driver. Other companies allow policyholders to continue to insure an adult child on a vehicle even after the child graduates from college and moves away from home. This provides coverage if your adult child occasionally drives your vehicle. As a general rule of thumb, most insurance companies consider the primary driver to be the registered owner of the vehicle, the one who drives it more often than anyone else.</p> </div> </div> </li> </ul> <h2 class="header Heading3" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="10">Misconceptions</h2> <ul itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="9"> <li class="step" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="36"> <div class="stepMeat" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="37"> <div itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="38" itemprop="step"> <p itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="39">While insuring teenage drivers does generally cost more than insuring adult drivers, premiums are lower for teens who have good driving records. Teen drivers are not always viewed as a single liability group when insurance companies set rates. Many companies now consider individual risk factors and offer discounts for teens who keep safe driving records.</p> </div> </div> </li> </ul> <h2 class="header Heading3" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="8">Expert Insight</h2> <ul itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="7"> <li class="step" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="40"> <div class="stepMeat" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="41"> <div itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="42" itemprop="step"> <p itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="43">Insurance agents point out that if your child takes a vehicle to college, the location of the school can make a big difference in the insurance premium you pay. If the college is located in an urban area, the premium will likely be higher. Insurance companies consider theft and accident statistics for specific areas when setting premium rates. Even if a child does not take a vehicle to college, parents are advised not to remove the child from the family insurance policy. Doing so may lower premiums, but your child will not be covered while at school, where she may drive a friend's vehicle. Any vehicle owned by your child must be insured under a separate insurance policy, or your policy must be include your child as well.</p> </div> </div> </li> </ul> <h2 class="header Heading3" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="6">Warning</h2> <ul itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="5"> <li class="step" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="44"> <div class="stepMeat" itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="45"> <div itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="46" itemprop="step"> <p itxtHarvested="0" itxtNodeId="47">Premiums for auto insurance policies that include a young driver do not decrease significantly until after that driver's 25th birthday. If you keep an adult child who is living in your household on your auto insurance policy after she turns 25, consider that your child's driving record will affect both the current and future rates of your auto insurance. Insurance companies require that policyholders list all household members who will be driving vehicles you own. Even if your adult child no longer lives with you, if he continues to drive your vehicles frequently you may be required to add him to your auto insurance policy. Contact your insurance agent for the company's specific requirements.</p> </div> </div> </li> </ul> </li> </ol> <br /> <br /> Read more: <a href="http://www.ehow.com/about_4688719_insure-child-auto-insurance-policy.html#ixzz1RFKZUjKo" style="color: #003399;">How Long Can You Insure Your Child on Your Auto Insurance Policy? | eHow.com</a> <a href="http://www.ehow.com/about_4688719_insure-child-auto-insurance-policy.html#ixzz1RFKZUjKo" style="color: #003399;">http://www.ehow.com/about_4688719_insure-child-auto-insurance-policy.html#ixzz1RFKZUjKo</a></div>urn:uuid:ca48638e-a3b2-442a-85e4-ad0ec4524e30<img src='http://ads.forbes.com/RealMedia/ads/adstream_lx.ads/forbes.com/personalfinance/story/id2431838035/518842136/x92/OasDefault_v5/default/empty.gif' align='left' />Your life insurance policy can be a great tool for charitable giving. Find out how. Millions of Americans make donations of cash and property to the charities of their choice each year. However, while these donations can provide valuable ta...Mon, 20 Jun 2011 11:34:49 -0500<h2 class="storyDek">Your life insurance policy can be a great tool for charitable giving. Find out how.</h2> <script src="http://images.forbes.com/scripts/jquery/jquery.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script src="http://images.forbes.com/scripts/jquery/jquery.dimensions.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script src="http://images.forbes.com/scripts/jquery/ui.core.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script src="http://images.forbes.com/scripts/jquery/ui/ui.tabs.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script src="http://images.forbes.com/scripts/story/behavior.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <a href="http://ads.forbes.com/RealMedia/ads/click_lx.ads/forbes.com/personalfinance/story/id2431838035/518842136/x92/OasDefault_v5/default/empty.gif/544870425645332f63743041415a3461" target="_top" sizset="7" sizcache="1"><img alt="" width="1" height="1" style="border: 0px solid;" src="http://ads.forbes.com/RealMedia/ads/adstream_lx.ads/forbes.com/personalfinance/story/id2431838035/518842136/x92/OasDefault_v5/default/empty.gif/544870425645332f63743041415a3461?adTerms=Life+Insurance+Charitable+Donations+Retirement+Taxes&amp;tickerTerms=PRU+KCLI+LNC+MET" /></a><a href="http://ads.forbes.com/RealMedia/ads/click_lx.ads/forbes.com/personalfinance/story/id2431838035/795931383/x91/OasDefault_v5/default/empty.gif/544870425645332f63743041415a3461" target="_top" sizset="8" sizcache="1"><img alt="" width="1" height="1" style="border: 0px solid;" src="http://ads.forbes.com/RealMedia/ads/adstream_lx.ads/forbes.com/personalfinance/story/id2431838035/795931383/x91/OasDefault_v5/default/empty.gif/544870425645332f63743041415a3461?adTerms=Life+Insurance+Charitable+Donations+Retirement+Taxes&amp;tickerTerms=PRU+KCLI+LNC+MET" /></a> <script src="http://images.forbes.com/scripts/acs/thickbox.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <link href="http://images.forbes.com/css/story/thickbox.css" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" media="screen" /> <link href="http://images.forbes.com/css/signup_module.css" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" media="screen" /> <div class="lingo_region" id="lingo_span" sizset="43" sizcache="7"> <div id="custombox" sizset="21" sizcache="6"><strong>Millions of Americans</strong> make donations of cash and property to the charities of their choice each year. However, while these donations can provide valuable tax deductions, many donors are left wishing that they could do more for the charities that they love and support. Some donors would therefore be wise to consider using their life insurance policies as a more effective means of leveraging the support they provide. In many cases, this can be the most effective and convenient asset that they can give. However, there are a few different ways that this can be done. This article examines the various methods of life insurance donations and their advantages.</div> <p><span style="font-weight: bold;">Charitable Giving Riders</span> <br /> Charitable giving riders are a relatively new addition to the family of riders available in modern life insurance policies. For example, these riders can be attached to policies with face values of over $1 million and then pay an additional 1-2% of the policy's face value to a qualified charity of the policyholder's choice, although sometimes there are limitations placed on the maximum allowable gift amount. Furthermore, these riders usually come at no additional cost and often do not increase the premium or reduce the cash value or the death benefit of the policy. These riders effectively eliminate the need to create, pay for and administrate separate gift trusts until the death of the insured.</p> <div id="controlsbox" sizset="26" sizcache="6"> <h4><span style="font-size: 13px;">Once&nbsp; these riders have</span><a href="http://members.forbes.com/membership/editprofile.do" sizset="13" sizcache="1"></a><span style="font-size: 13px;">&nbsp;been added no further action is needed by the policyholder. These riders do have a few limitations; perhaps the largest is the high amount of protection that must be purchased in order to use them. Any charity chosen must also be a qualified 501(c)3 charity that meets the IRS definition of a nonprofit organization. Furthermore, make sure that the charity will actually accept your life insurance policy. Some types of policies, such as term policies, are often shunned by these organizations.</span></h4> </div> <p><span style="font-weight: bold;">Policy Donations</span> <br /> Although this strategy is a bit more involved than merely purchasing a charitable gift rider, policy donations also provide a much greater benefit to the donor as well as the charity. Gifting a life insurance policy can greatly reduce the donor's taxable estate, which can save thousands of dollars in estate taxes for upper-income taxpayers. Gifting a policy can also yield a current income tax deduction of the policy's fair market value. Of course, this deduction can be quite significant in some cases. </p> <div id="inlineAdsense"> <script type="text/javascript"> <!-- OAS_AD('x81') //--> </script> </div> <p>Perhaps most importantly, the charity will receive the entire face amount of the policy upon the death of the insured. This is usually going to be many times the amount that they would receive from any rider, and can represent a substantial windfall. However, the cost to the donor will only be a small fraction of that amount each year, and any premiums paid after the date of the gift will be deductible as well.</p> <p>There is also no limit on the size of the policy that may be donated, since charitable donations have no ceiling for estate tax purposes. This strategy also does not impede the donor's current investment strategy, and can also provide a useful way to dispose of an unwanted policy that was originally purchase to cover a need that no longer exists.<br /> <br /> </p> <p><strong>Naming a Charity as Beneficiary <br /> <br /> </strong>Naming the charity of your choice as the beneficiary of your life insurance policy is the simplest way to provide a charity with the death benefit proceeds from a policy, although it does not offer the income tax advantages that come with gifting a policy. However, it still reduces the donor's estate by the amount of the death benefit. Donors who are unsure of exactly how they want to apportion their assets after death can list a charity as a revocable beneficiary if they so choose. This gives them flexibility in future planning in case their financial situation changes.</p> <p>Naming a charity as a beneficiary also ensures the privacy of the transaction, which can be important for donors who wish to keep their gifting intentions secret from their families or other heirs. Transfer of assets from an insurance contract is also absolutely incontestable, thus rendering anyone contesting the estate settlement powerless to stop it. Furthermore, the donor remains in a position to change the beneficiary prior to his or her death. If the donor chooses to stop paying the premiums, the charitable organization can choose to continue the process or can allow the policy to lapse. <br /> <br /> For more information contact us at 404-296-6565.</p> </div>urn:uuid:6858da4a-99de-46cd-a7cf-f30fd5718da3Aimed at: Young people in low-income communities. Every nine seconds someone in the U.S. drops out of high school. The Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (www.nfte.com) is trying to change that statistic. NFT's mission is to provide entrepreneur...Tue, 31 May 2011 09:54:48 -0500<p><strong>Aimed at</strong>: Young people in low-income communities.</p> <br /> <br /> <p><strong>Every nine seconds</strong> someone in the U.S. drops out of high school. The Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (<a href="http://community.sba.gov/community/leaving/leaving-sba-dot-gov?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nfte.com%2F" class="ext" target="_blank" jQuery1306853369706="123">www.nfte.com</a>) is trying to change that statistic. NFT's mission is to provide entrepreneurship education programs to young people from low-income communities and was designed to seize upon channeling street smarts into academic and business smarts.</p> <br /> <br /> <p><strong>What they Teach</strong>: NFTE's programs in 21 states teach entrepreneurship using its award-winning, hands-on core <a href="http://community.sba.gov/community/leaving/leaving-sba-dot-gov?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nfte.com%2Fstartaprogram%2Fcurriculum%2F" class="ext" target="_blank" jQuery1306853369706="124">curriculum</a>*, How to Start and Operate a Small Business. There are versions for middle school, high school, and young adult students, with corresponding reading levels and complexity. Students learn business concepts, practice skills including negotiation and pricing, and work on completion of business plans for their own individual businesses.</p> <br /> <br /> <p><strong>How they Teach</strong>: The NFTE curriculum is offered in a semester-long or year-long entrepreneurship course, integrated into an existing course, or used for an after-school program or intensive camp. The programs are offered in a variety of settings, including public schools, after-school programs at community-based organizations, and intensive summer business camps.</p> <br /> <br /> <p>NFTE also hosts business plan competitions and winning students get the chance to apply for a grant towards their business or college expenses.</p> <br /> <br /> <p><strong>Results</strong>: Since 1987, NFTE has reached over 330,000 young people from low-income communities and has used <a href="http://community.sba.gov/community/leaving/leaving-sba-dot-gov?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nfte.com%2Fimpact%2F" class="ext" target="_blank" jQuery1306853369706="125">independent research</a>* to evaluate its program success, claiming that:</p> <ul> <li>70% of former students were in post-secondary education</li> <li>43% had part-time jobs</li> <li>33% were still running a business</li> </ul> <p>Contact a <a href="http://community.sba.gov/community/leaving/leaving-sba-dot-gov?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nfte.com%2Flocations%2F" class="ext" target="_blank" jQuery1306853369706="126">NFTE program office</a>* or its <a href="http://community.sba.gov/community/leaving/leaving-sba-dot-gov?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nfte.com%2Fcontact%2F" class="ext" target="_blank" jQuery1306853369706="127">headquarters</a>* in New York for more information.</p> <br /> <br /> <p><strong>Additional Resources</strong></p> <ul> <li><a href="http://community2.business.gov/t5/Business-Law-Advisor/Young-Entrepreneurs-Advice-for-Starting-a-Business-as-a-Minor/ba-p/5515" class="ext" target="_blank" jQuery1306853369706="128">Young Entrepreneurs - Advice for Starting a Business as a Minor</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.sba.gov/teens/index.html" target="_blank" jQuery1306853369706="129">Teen Business Link</a> - Ideas, resources, and advice for teen entrepreneurs from the U.S Small Business Administration</li> <li><a href="http://web.sba.gov/faqs/faqIndexAll.cfm?areaid=30" target="_blank" jQuery1306853369706="130">U.S. Small Business Administration FAQs for Teen Entrepreneurs</a></li> </ul>urn:uuid:f42699cd-8d41-4f3b-bd79-7c4dc780ab3cWe just wanted to let you know that we've moved into our new location at 4630 Memorial Drive, Decatur, GA 30032. Just across the street from our old location, the phone number is the same 404-296-6565. We're located just in front of the D&amp;K Shopp...Wed, 27 Apr 2011 12:46:43 -0500We just wanted to let you know that we've moved into our new location at <strong>4630 Memorial Drive, Decatur, GA 30032</strong>. Just across the street from our old location, the phone number is the same <strong>404-296-6565</strong>. We're located just in front of the D&amp;K Shopping Plaza and Burger King, so please stop by and visit us soon. Thanks for your support of local business, because you care, we can employ!<br /> <br /> Greg Palmerurn:uuid:40cc6d94-c3e3-480b-a097-90b56ca9c530There are several theories as to why the day commemorating Jesus' crucifixion is called "Good" Friday. Some scholars think it's a corruption of "God's Friday," while others interpret "good" in the sense of "observed as holy," or to signify that the a...Thu, 21 Apr 2011 14:45:08 -0500<div style="text-align: left; background-color: transparent; color: #000000; overflow: hidden; text-decoration: none;border: medium none;">There are several theories as to why the day commemorating Jesus' crucifixion is called "<strong>Good</strong>" Friday. Some scholars think it's a corruption of "God's Friday," while others interpret "good" in the sense of "observed as holy," or to signify that the act of the Crucifixion is central to the Christian view of salvation. It is called Great Friday by Orthodox Christians, but it's not surprising that the Friday before Easter is sometimes referred to as Black Friday or Sorrowful Friday .<br /> <br /> This day has been in the Christian calendar even longer than Easter. And although it was neglected for a long time by Protestant churches, Good Friday has again come into almost universal observance by Christians. From noon to three o'clock many western Christian churches in the U.S. hold the Tre Ore (Italian for "three hours," referring to the last three hours Jesus hung on the cross), a service based on the last seven things Jesus said on the cross. Many churches also observe the day by reenacting the procession to the cross as in the ritual of the Stations of the Cross.<br /> <br /> In every Orthodox church, the Epitaphios, a gold-embroidered pall representing the body of Christ, is laid on a special platform, which is smothered in flowers. During the evening service, the platform is carried out of the church in a procession. The faithful follow, carrying lighted candles and chanting hymns. At squares and crossroads, the procession stops for a prayer by the priest.<br /> <br /> Long Friday is another name for Good Friday. In Norway, this day is called Langfredag ; in Finland, Pitk&auml;perjantai (or Long Friday) because it was a day of suffering for Christ<br /> <br /> Read more: <a href="http://www.answers.com/topic/good-friday#ixzz1KBkGNfON" style="color: #003399;">http://www.answers.com/topic/good-friday#ixzz1KBkGNfON</a></div>urn:uuid:b3e13834-66c4-40d3-8c3f-f8f42159109e Disability can strike at any time, and in addition to the physical problems this can cause, the financial effects can be devastating. Thirty percent of all people from ages 35 to 65 will suffer a long-term disability during their lifetime. Without s...Thu, 07 Apr 2011 10:43:04 -0500<div style="text-align: left; background-color: transparent; color: #000000; overflow: hidden; text-decoration: none;border: medium none;"> <p class="intro" id="intelliTxt" itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="0"><strong>Disability</strong> can strike at any time, and in addition to the physical problems this can cause, the financial effects can be devastating. <em>Thirty percent</em> of all people from ages 35 to 65 will suffer a long-term disability during their lifetime. Without sufficient savings, this can be devastating. To mitigate the risk, you should have disability insurance to replace a portion of your income if you are unable to work.</p> <section class="Module body FLC" /><section /> <ol class="generic" id="intelliTxt" itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="1"> <li class="section" itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="2"> <h2 class="header Heading3" itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="10">Short-Term Coverage</h2> <ul itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="9"> <li class="step" itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="11"> <div class="stepMeat" itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="12"> <div itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="13" itemprop="step"> <p itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="14">Short-term disability is also known as sick pay or sick time coverage. Most employers have a benefit that pays some sick time when you are out of work for a short time due to an illness. The benefits vary with each employer. Some companies allow you to purchase increased short-term disability coverage. You may want to consider building an emergency fund equal to several months of income to provide protection in case of a short-term disability.</p> </div> </div> </li> </ul> <h2 class="header Heading3" itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="8">Employer Coverage</h2> <ul itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="7"> <li class="step" itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="15"> <div class="stepMeat" itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="16"> <div itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="17" itemprop="step"> <p itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="18">Your employer may offer long-term disability coverage, either as a benefit that you pay for, or a company-paid benefit to you. If you pay for the coverage yourself, any disability benefits are tax free. Since your employer is eligible for group coverage, the rates are often more reasonable than what you can find on the open market. Employer coverage usually pays a percentage of your income, often 60 percent, that starts after you have been disabled for a particular length of time.</p> </div> </div> </li> </ul> <h2 class="header Heading3" itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="6">Supplemental Coverage</h2> <ul itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="5"> <li class="step" itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="19"> <div class="stepMeat" itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="20"> <div itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="21" itemprop="step"> <p itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="22">Since your employer coverage may not replace a significant portion of your income, you may need to purchase supplemental coverage. Some employer coverages do not pay benefits based on commissions or bonuses, making supplemental coverage even more valuable for some people. You may be able to purchase coverage equal to 20 to 30 percent of your salary by paying a premium of 1 to 3 percent of your income. You cannot purchase coverage for 100 percent of your income, because it could encourage fraud; you would have no incentive to go back to work when you are well.</p> </div> </div> </li> </ul> <h2 class="header Heading3" itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="4">Renewable and Non-Cancelable</h2> <ul itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="3"> <li class="step" itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="23"> <div class="stepMeat" itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="24"> <div itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="25" itemprop="step"> <p itxtHarvested="1" itxtNodeId="26">Disability insurance policies are available with different types of renewal rights. Ideally, you want a non-cancelable policy. This type of policy locks in your benefits, and the policy cannot be changed by the insurance company unless you request the changes. Non-cancelable policies are also the most expensive types of disability insurance. A guaranteed renewable policy means that the insurance company cannot cancel your coverage, but it can raise the price of your premiums with a specific reason. Conditionally renewable policies have the fewest protections, and the insurance company can put restrictions on your ability to renew your disability policy.</p> </div> </div> </li> </ul> </li> </ol> <br /> <br /> Read more: <a href="http://www.ehow.com/info_8042689_do-need-disability-insurance.html#ixzz1IqtgheDl" style="color: #003399;">Do I Need Disability Insurance? | eHow.com</a> <a href="http://www.ehow.com/info_8042689_do-need-disability-insurance.html#ixzz1IqtgheDl" style="color: #003399;">http://www.ehow.com/info_8042689_do-need-disability-insurance.html#ixzz1IqtgheDl</a></div>urn:uuid:dc169a53-f2cf-4e4e-bd55-c24d62f78292The effects of life insurance after the death of a breadwinner can be interesting to observe. I guess it would be best to first look at the situation without life insurance. A hypothetical example may also help. Jim is age 42, married and has 2 chi...Mon, 28 Mar 2011 12:47:54 -0500The effects of life insurance after the death of a breadwinner can be interesting to observe. I guess it would be best to first look at the situation without life insurance. A hypothetical example may also help. <br /> <br /> Jim is age 42, married and has 2 children ages 14 and 16. Jim started a little late as he wanted to prepare for his upcoming family. His wife Alicia is age 38. Jim developed terminal cancer and was quite aware that he didn't have much longer to live. Alicia never worked because she felt she wanted to focus on raising the children. <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Jim and Alicia were doing quite well. Jim's income was more than sufficient to live on. They owned their own house. They had talked about buying an insurance policy but never seemed to get around to getting a program started. Jim is devastated because he is very aware of the problems the family will have after he is gone. They have a retirement&nbsp;savings account with about $40,000. They were thinking of college education for the children when they started saving.</p> <p>Upon Jim's death that money will disappear very quickly if he has no life insurance. </p> <ul> <li><b>Picking Up The Pieces</b> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>On the other hand let us suppose Jim and Alicia were smart people. They did plan ahead. They have a pension plan and, fortunately, they have life insurance. Jim has $2,800,000 20 year term insurance on his life and Alicia has $500,000 of the same type policy on her life. The policies on Jim's life will first pay off the mortgage upon his death and in addition to that provide sufficient income for the family to live not only till the children graduate college but for as long as Alicia lives.</p> <p>Alicia insisted on her policy because she felt that if she should die prematurely the funds could go to pay a qualified care taker to help raise the children. That is a good idea.</p> <p>Upon Jim's death everything will go smoothly. Alicia is quite capable of managing everything efficiently. The mortgage will be paid off within 6 months. The insurance companies used a life income option with a 10 year certain payment period, just in case Alicia should die before the children graduate college. They will continue to live in the same house. The children will go to the same school and still have the same friends. Jim will be missed by his family but he will always have a special place in the hearts of his wife Alicia as well as their 2 children. They will know he cares.</p> <p>This is an actual, real life, case. I just changed the names. Jim is terminal but is holding on.</p> </li> </ul> <hr />urn:uuid:1f1fccbd-3217-4268-8da8-8d6ddda70237 Policy in which premiums, ownership rights, and death proceeds are split between an employer and an employee, or between a parent and a child. The employer pays the part of each year's premium that at least equals the increase in the cash value. The...Thu, 24 Mar 2011 19:22:49 -0500<div style="text-align: left; background-color: transparent; color: #000000; overflow: hidden; text-decoration: none;border: medium none;"> <p itxtNodeId="345" itxtHarvested="1"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Policy</strong> in which premiums, ownership rights, and death proceeds are split between an employer and an employee, or between a parent and a child. The employer pays the part of each year's premium that at least equals the increase in the <i itxtNodeId="358" itxtHarvested="1">cash value. </i>The employee may pay the remainder of the premium, or the employer may pay the entire premium. When the increase in cash value equals or exceeds the yearly premium, the employer pays the entire premium. If the employee dies while in the service of the employer, a beneficiary chosen by the employee receives the difference between the face value and the amount paid to the employer (the cash value or the total of all premiums paid by the employer-whichever is greater). Thus, during employment, the employee's share of the death benefit decreases. If the employee leaves the employer, the latter has the option of surrendering the policy in exchange for return of all premiums, or selling the policy to the employee for the amount of its cash value. <br /> <br /> There are two types of split dollar life insurance policies: <br /> <br /> (1) <i itxtNodeId="357" itxtHarvested="1">Endorsement-</i>the employer owns all policy privileges; the employee's only rights are to choose beneficiaries and to select the manner in which the death benefit is paid. <br /> <br /> (2) <i itxtNodeId="356" itxtHarvested="1">Collateral-</i>the employee owns the policy. The employer's contributions toward the premiums are viewed as a series of interest-free loans, which equal the yearly increase in the cash value of the policy. The employee <i itxtNodeId="355" itxtHarvested="1">assigns </i>the policy to the employer as collateral for these loans. When the employee dies, the loans are paid from the face value of the policy. Any remaining proceeds are paid to the beneficiary.</span></p> <br /> <br /> Read more: <a href="http://www.answers.com/topic/split-dollar-life-insurance#ixzz1HZ9cIpLG" style="color: #003399;">http://www.answers.com/topic/split-dollar-life-insurance#ixzz1HZ9cIpLG</a></div>urn:uuid:40af1330-d402-474a-81bc-a036fea4bb40Flooding is the nation's most common natural disaster. Flooding can happen in every U.S. state and territory. However, all floods are not alike. Some can develop slowly during an extended period of rain, or in a warming trend following a heavy snow. ...Thu, 17 Mar 2011 13:43:50 -0500<p><strong>Flooding</strong> is the nation's most common natural disaster. Flooding can happen in every U.S. state and territory. However, all floods are not alike. Some can develop slowly during an extended period of rain, or in a warming trend following a heavy snow. Others, such as flash floods, can occur quickly, even without any visible signs of rain. It's important to be prepared for flooding no matter where you live, but particularly if you are in a low-lying area, near water or downstream from a dam. Even a very small stream or dry creek bed can overflow and create flooding. </p> <br /> <h3>Step 1: Get a Kit </h3> <p>Get an Emergency Supply Kit, which includes items like non-perishable food, water, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, extra flashlights and batteries. You may want to prepare a portable kit and keep it in your car. This kit should include:</p> <ul> <li>Copies of prescription medications and medical supplies; </li> <li>Bedding and clothing, including sleeping bags and pillows; </li> <li>Bottled water, a battery-operated radio and extra batteries, a first aid kit, a flashlight; </li> <li>Copies of important documents: driver's license, Social Security card, proof of residence, insurance policies, wills, deeds, birth and marriage certificates, tax records, etc. </li> </ul> <h3>Step 2: Make a Plan </h3> <p><strong>Prepare your family</strong></p> <ul> <li>Make a Family Emergency Plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to know how you will contact one another, how you will get back together and what you will do in case of an emergency. </li> <li>Plan places where your family will meet, both within and outside of your immediate neighborhood. </li> <li>It may be easier to make a long-distance phone call than to call across town, so an out-of-town contact may be in a better position to communicate among separated family members. </li> <li>You may also want to inquire about emergency plans at places where your family spends time: work, daycare and school. If no plans exist, consider volunteering to help create one. </li> <li>Be sure to consider the specific needs of your family members <ul> <li>Notify caregivers and babysitters about your plan. </li> <li>Make plans for your pets </li> <li>Take a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) class from your local <a href="http://www.citizencorps.gov/cc/searchCouncil.do?submitByZip" title="Citizen Corps Find a Chapter Website">Citizen Corps chapter</a>. Keep your training current. </li> <li>Purchase a flood insurance policy if you do not already have one or review your current insurance policy to ensure your home and contents are adequately covered. Visit <a href="http://www.floodsmart.gov" title="Flood Smart dot gov Website">FloodSmart.gov</a> to learn more about individual flood risk, explore coverage options and to find an agent in your area. </li> </ul> </li> <ul> <h3>Step 3: Be Informed </h3> <p><strong>Familiarize yourself with these terms to help identify a flood hazard</strong> </p> <ul> <li><strong>Flood Watch:</strong> Flooding is possible. Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information </li> <li><strong>Flash Flood Watch:</strong> Flash flooding is possible. Be prepared to move to higher ground; listen to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information. </li> <li><strong>Flood Warning:</strong> Flooding is occurring or will occur soon; if advised to evacuate, do so immediately. </li> <li><strong>Flash Flood Warning:</strong> A flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground on foot immediately. </li> </ul> </ul> </ul> <h3>Know Your Risks, Know Your Saftey </h3> <ul> <li>Find out if your home is at risk for flood and educate yourself on the impact a flood could have on you and your family. FEMA's Flood Insurance Study compiled statistical data on river flows, storm tides, hydrologic/hydraulic analyses, and rainfall and topographic surveys to create <a href="http://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/pages/flooding_flood_risks/understanding_flood_maps.jsp" title="Flood hazard map page">flood hazard maps</a> that outline your community's different flood risk areas. </li> <li>Most homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Talk to your insurance provider about your policy and consider if you need additional coverage. </li> <li>The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) can help provide a means for property owners to financially protect themselves if additional coverage is required. The NFIP offers flood insurance to homeowners, renters, and business owners if their community participates in the NFIP. To find out more about the NFIP visit <a href="http://www.floodsmart.gov" title="Food Smart dot Gov Website">www.FloodSmart.gov</a>. </li> </ul> <h3>Prepare Your Home </h3> <ul> <li>Elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel in your home if you live in an area that has a high flood risk. </li> <li>Consider installing "check valves" to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home. </li> <li>If feasible, construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering the building and seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds. </li> <li>Find out how to keep food safe during and after and emergency by visiting <a href="http://www.foodsafety.gov/keep/emergency/index.html" title="Food Safety dot gov web site link">www.FoodSafety.gov</a> </li> </ul> <h3>Prepare Your Business </h3> <p>Plan to stay in business, talk to your employees, and protect your investment. </p> <ul> <li>Carefully assess <strong>how your company functions</strong>, both internally and externally, to determine which staff, materials, procedures and equipment are absolutely necessary to keep the business operating. </li> <li>Identify <strong>operations critical to survival</strong> and recovery. </li> <li>Plan what you will do if your <strong>building, plant or store is not accessible</strong>. <ul> <li>Consider if you can run the business from a different location or from your home. </li> <li>Develop relationships with other companies to use their facilities in case a disaster makes your location unusable. </li> </ul> </li> <li>Learn about programs, services, and resources at <a href="http://www.sba.gov/" title="U.S. Small Business Administration Website">U.S. Small Business Administration</a>. </li> </ul> <h3>Listen to Local Officials </h3> <p>Learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your <a href="../local/index.html" title="State and Local Information Link">state and local government</a>. In any emergency, always listen to the instructions given by local emergency management officials. </p> <h3>Federal and National Resources </h3> <p>Find additional information on how to plan and prepare for floods, what to do during and after a flood and learn about available resources by visiting the following: </p> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.fema.gov/hazard/flood/info.shtm" title="Federal Emergency Management Agency Website">Federal Emergency Management Agency</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.noaawatch.gov/floods.php" title="NOAA Watch Website">NOAA Watch</a> </li> <li><a href="../redirect.html?url=http://www.redcross.org/" title="American Red Cross Website">American Red Cross</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.epa.gov/naturalevents/flooding.html" title="U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Website">U.S. Environmental Protection Agency</a> </li> <li><a href="http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/floods/" title="U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Center for Disease Control Website">U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Center for Disease Control</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.serve.gov/" title="USA Freedom Corps Website">USA Freedom Corps Website</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.floodsmart.gov" title="Food Smart dot Gov Website">www.FloodSmart.gov</a> </li> </ul>urn:uuid:bc25cf29-b40b-41b5-864c-8f1784337812 Have you been putting off succession planning? Use these tips for family business succession planning to get the succession planning process underway and ensure a smoother transition from one generation to another. 1) Start business succession plann...Mon, 07 Mar 2011 14:50:08 -0600<div> <p><strong><em>Have you been putting off succession planning?</em></strong> Use these tips for family business succession planning to get the succession planning process underway and ensure a smoother transition from one generation to another.</p> <p><b>1) Start business succession planning early.</b></p> <p>Five years in advance is good. Ten years in advance is better. Many business advisors tell budding entrepreneurs to build an exit strategy right into their business plan. The point is, the longer you get to spend on family business succession planning, the smoother the transition process is likely to be.</p> <p><b>2) Involve your family in business succession planning discussions.</b></p> <p>Making your own succession plan and then announcing it is the surest way to slow family discord. "Opening a dialogue among family members is the best way to begin the process of a successful succession plan - one where close attention is paid to the personal feelings, ambitions and goals of everyone concerned".<br /> <b><br /> 3) Look at your family realistically and plan accordingly.</b></p> <p>You may want your first-born son to run the business, but does he have the business skills or even the interest to do it? Perhaps there's another family member who is more capable. It may even be that there are no family members capable of or interested in continuing the business and that it would be best to sell it. Examine the strengths of all possible successors as objectively as possible and think about what's best for the business.</p> <p><b>4) Get over the idea that everyone has to have an equal share.</b></p> <p>While this is a nice idea in theory, it may not be in the best interests of your business. Remember that management and ownership are separate business succession planning issues. It may be fairer for the successor(s) you have chosen to run the business to have a larger share of business ownership than family members not active in the business. Or it may be best to transfer both management and ownership to your chosen successor and make other financial arrangements to benefit your other children.</p> <p><b>5) Train your successor(s) and work with them.</b></p> <p>How can you expect your successor to take over and run your business successfully if you haven't spent any time training him or her? Your family business succession plan will have a much better chance of success if you work with your successor(s) for a year or two before you hand over the reins. For solo entrepreneurs, sharing decision making and teaching business skills to someone else can be difficult, but it's definitely an effort that will pay big dividends for the business.</p> <p><b>6) Get outside help with your business succession planning.</b></p> Lawyers, accountants, financial advisors - there are many professionals that can help you put together a successful succession plan. There are even companies that specialize in family business succession planning, who will facilitate the process of working through both family and succession plan issues. <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>If you want to pass your family business along to the next generation, putting off business succession planning is the worst thing you can do. A good succession plan can ensure that you have the funds you need to retire and that the business you have built continues to thrive in the hands of the next generation.</p> </div>urn:uuid:eeb826ae-76f4-47c3-8b7a-596ef92054d4Business succession planning should be a priority for every family business. Sooner or later, everyone wants to retire. But if you own a family business, retirement isn't just a matter of deciding not to go into the office any more. Besides ensuring ...Fri, 04 Mar 2011 15:28:49 -0600<p><strong>Business succession planning</strong> should be a priority for every family business.</p> <p>Sooner or later, everyone wants to retire. But if you own a family business, retirement isn't just a matter of deciding not to go into the office any more. Besides ensuring that you have enough money to retire on, the whole question of what happens to the business becomes paramount. Who's going to manage the business when you no longer work the business? How will ownership be transferred? Will your business even carry on or will you sell it?</p> <p>Business succession planning seeks to manage these issues, setting up a smooth transition between you and the future owners of your business. With family businesses, succession planning can be especially complicated because of the relationships and emotions involved - and because most people are not that comfortable discussing topics such as aging, death, and their financial affairs.</p> <p>Perhaps this is why more than <strong><em>70 percent</em></strong> of family-owned businesses do not survive the transition from founder to second generation. In most cases, the "killer" is taxes or family discord, both issues that a good family business succession plan will cover.</p> <p>Think of business succession planning as broken into three main issues; management, ownership, and taxes.</p> <p>It's important to realize that management and ownership are not necessarily one and the same. You may decide, for instance, to transfer management of your business to just one of your children but transfer equal shares of business ownership to all your children, whether they're actively involved in operating the business or not.</p> <p>The taxes component of succession planning looks at the minimization of taxes upon death. There are asset transfer tax strategies that will help you do this, such as freezing the value of your interest in the company while you transfer ownership to your children.</p> <p>By reorganizing your corporation to exchange your common shares in the business for preferred shares with a fixed value equal to the common-share value, you can pass all future capital appreciation and income tax liability on that future appreciation to your children while you retain control, and access to the current value of the business, in effect freezing the corporation.</p> <p>Accountants and lawyers who specialize in business succession planning can provide invaluable advice about these tax strategies.</p> <p>For many family businesses, family is the primary emphasis of succession planning. Whether you're thinking about the future management of your business, how ownership is going to be passed along, or taxes, you won't be able to help thinking about how your decisions will affect your family.</p>urn:uuid:831dc2b0-05c8-48c8-947a-45470f6ed67aLife Insurance. Doesn't it just conjure up some insurance salesman knocking on your door at dinner-time&nbsp;trying to sell you a life insurance policy? Well&nbsp;those days are long gone! Now I prefer to call it "Life Assurance" anyway, because it i...Mon, 28 Feb 2011 11:48:07 -0600<p><strong>Life Insurance</strong>. Doesn't it just conjure up some insurance salesman knocking on your door at dinner-time&nbsp;trying to sell you a life insurance policy? Well&nbsp;those days are long gone!</p> <p>Now I prefer to call it "<strong><em>Life Assurance</em></strong>" anyway, because it is assuring you that your life is converted in the event of death and that what your life is insured for, will be paid out to your estate or policy beneficiary.</p> <p>But how many of you actually have this cover in place? I know of lots of my friends, who are in their 20's who don't have the coverage because 1) they don't know anything about it (lack of education) and 2) they don't think they need it and see it as an extra cost. How little they know... like anything, the earlier you start, the cheaper it is...</p> <p>Following are 5 important reasons why YOU should have life insurance&nbsp;(assurance) and why those around you too should invest in this:</p> <p><strong>Reason 1</strong></p> <p>Hello? Do you have any bills, like maybe a mortgage?? This alone is a pertinent reason to have life assurance... it means that should you die, this major bill will be paid off and not left to your survivors to deal with!</p> <p><strong>Reason 2</strong></p> <p>Young, fit and healthy? No ailments? Then this is the best time to get life assurance! Your premium will be small and if you take out a policy that allows you to keep the same premium until the age of 65, you will have considerable savings... the earlier you start, the better. And then if you develop any health issues throughout your life, it doesn't matter, because you already have the cover in place!</p> <p><strong>Reason 3</strong></p> <p>Are you married? Do you care about your spouse? Then is it not thoughtful to make sure that your spouse does not have to worry about money should you pass before they do and vice versa? I know a couple who cancelled their life insurance and then 6 months later he was diagnosed as having stomach cancer, and died 18 months later... leaving behind a wife and two children still at home and a mortgage... and no monetry relief for his family. Is this what you want to put your partner through?</p> <p><strong>Reason 4</strong></p> <p>Want to leave a legacy for your future grand children? What better way then ensuring your estate will actually have some legacy to pass on! You can elect in your will to have the proceeds of your life assurance paid directly to your estate and then as per your will, divy up the proceeds.</p> <p><strong>Reason 5</strong></p> <p>Peace of mind... yours that is. If you can't afford health insurance or any other insurance, you can afford life insurance... and should you develop a terminal disease... your life insurance will pay out a lump sum upon confirmation of this, allowing you to fulfil any dreams you have not achieved or to get your affairs in order.</p> <p>There are many more reasons I could go into here, but you get the gist... just like you wouldn't risk not having your car insured or your house or contents... how can you not insure your number one asset... yourself?</p> <p>There are plenty of fantastic financial advisers out there. If you don't have one, a great place to start is here, we have trained staff that can guide you&nbsp;and make sure you understand just what you are being covered for.<br /> <br /> </p>urn:uuid:594b84c8-041f-482d-81d4-dbff30498f8cEvents of the past few years have taught us that life is full of unexpected twists and turns.&nbsp; Fortunately, during uncertain times, insurance provides a degree of certainty.&nbsp; You can depend on insurance to do what it promises, regardless of...Tue, 15 Feb 2011 10:19:32 -0600<p>Events of the past few years have taught us that life is full of unexpected twists and turns.&nbsp; Fortunately, during uncertain times, insurance provides a degree of certainty.&nbsp; You can depend on insurance to do what it promises, regardless of life's ups and downs.</p> <h3><strong>Why Protect Yourself?</strong></h3> <ul style="list-style-type: disc;"> <li>Two-thirds of surviving spouses report that lack of adequate life insurance had a devastating impact on their families' financial security. </li> <li>Three out of 10 workers between the ages of 25 and 65 will experience an accident or illness that keeps them out of work for three months or longer. </li> <li>After five years, 42% of surviving spouses consider their financial situation worse than before the death of their loved one. </li> <li>62% of all personal bankruptcies filed in 2007 were due to the inability to pay for medical expenses. </li> </ul> <h3>&nbsp;</h3> <h3><strong>Life and Disability Insurance are Essential</strong></h3> <p>Because the financial impact of a death or disabling illness or injury can be devastating, many consider risk protection an essential part of a sound financial plan.&nbsp; Risk protection products, such as life insurance and disability insurance, are the foundation for financial security.</p> <h3>&nbsp;</h3> <h3><strong>Help Protect What's Most Important</strong></h3> <p><strong>If you die</strong>.&nbsp; Could your family meet ongoing living expenses?&nbsp; Could they maintain their long-term financial goals?&nbsp; Without your financial contribution to the household, could your spouse save enough to put the kids through college or retire comfortably?&nbsp; It's always a struggle losing someone you love, but emotional struggles don't need to be compounded by financial difficulties.&nbsp; <strong>Life insurance helps make sure the people you care about most are provided for financially - even if you're not there.</strong></p> <p><strong>If you become disabled</strong>.&nbsp; If you became too sick or hurt to work, could you make ends meet financially?&nbsp; Think about everything your income provides.&nbsp; Would you need to change your lifestyle and dreams for the future if you could no longer work and earn an income?&nbsp;<strong> Disability insurance protects the thing that makes everything else possible - your income - if you become disabled.</strong></p> <br /> <br /> <h3><strong>It's Time to Take Action</strong></h3> <p>Make sure the impact of a death or disability doesn't side track your family.&nbsp; Protect yourself and your loved ones with quality individual life insurance and disability insurance.&nbsp; We know the road to achieving your financial goals is full of challenges.&nbsp; That's why we have a variety of life and disability insurance solutions to help you build a strong financial foundation.&nbsp; In today's changing world, <strong>it's protection you can't afford NOT to have</strong>.</p>urn:uuid:a9550f8f-5d7a-4a86-887f-bf70f56ab45b(CNN) -- A rash of inclement weather shut down Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport Tuesday morning, raising questions as to whether Super Bowl fans will face travel problems ahead of Sunday's big game. Icy road conditions on Tuesday forced school...Wed, 02 Feb 2011 12:04:46 -0600<p><b>(CNN)</b> -- A rash of inclement weather shut down Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport Tuesday morning, raising questions as to whether Super Bowl fans will face travel problems ahead of Sunday's big game.</p> <p>Icy road conditions on Tuesday forced schools and some government offices to close, while 60 municipal trucks salted and scraped their way through Dallas, Texas, said mayoral spokesman Frank Librio.</p> <p>But forecasters expect the blustery winter weather to leave the region -- and much of the country -- by Thursday, just as the first wave of pigskin enthusiasts are due to arrive.</p> <p>"We have been planning for this for a whole year," Librio said of Sunday's match-up between the Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers. "We'll be ready."</p> <p>Both teams and their fans are cold weather clubs, accustomed to the frozen tundra of Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.</p>urn:uuid:6104e281-a61c-45c0-9df6-c5eb5028e01bSometimes it's not who's in front of you, it's who's behind you! At All Access Agency Insurance, our team is committed to your success! Insurance is a business built on trust and we have to earn the confidence of our customers! We forge a strong bond...Tue, 11 Jan 2011 19:31:34 -0600<div class="blogContent"><span style="font-size: 16px;">Sometimes it's not who's in front of you, it's who's behind you! At <strong>All Access Agency Insurance</strong>, our team is committed to your success! Insurance is a business built on trust and we have to earn the confidence of our customers! We forge a strong bond and&nbsp;make sure that all parties meet their objectives! Best wishes for a spectacular 2011 and feel free to contact us for an insurance check-up.</span></div>urn:uuid:6ca2cb8b-29d2-44f7-9675-8823a44a39e1 Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.&nbsp; ~Norman Vincent Peale Christmas is a time when you get homesick - even when you're home.&nbsp; ~Carol Nelson He who has not Christmas in his...Fri, 24 Dec 2010 12:00:58 -0600<br /> Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.&nbsp; ~Norman Vincent Peale<br /> <br /> <br /> Christmas is a time when you get homesick - even when you're home.&nbsp; ~Carol Nelson<br /> <br /> <br /> He who has not Christmas in his heart will never find it under a tree.&nbsp; ~Roy L. Smith<br /> <br /> <br /> I have always thought of Christmas time, when it has come round, as a good time; a kind, forgiving, charitable time; the only time I know of, in the long calendar of the year, when men and women seem by one consent to open their shut-up hearts freely, and to think of people below them as if they really were fellow passengers to the grave, and not another race of creatures bound on other journeys.&nbsp; ~Charles Dickens<br /> <br /> <br /> Christmas is the gentlest, loveliest festival of the revolving year - and yet, for all that, when it speaks, its voice has strong authority.&nbsp; ~W.J. Cameron<br /> <br /> <br /> The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree:&nbsp; the presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other.&nbsp; ~Burton Hillis<br /> <br /> <br /> One of the most glorious messes in the world is the mess created in the living room on Christmas day.&nbsp; Don't clean it up too quickly.&nbsp; ~Andy Rooney<br /> <br /> <br /> Happy, happy Christmas, that can win us back to the delusions of our childish days; that can recall to the old man the pleasures of his youth; that can transport the sailor and the traveller, thousands of miles away, back to his own fire-side and his quiet home!&nbsp; ~Charles Dickens, <i>The Pickwick Papers</i>, 1836<br /> <br /> <br /> There has been only one Christmas - the rest are anniversaries.&nbsp; ~W.J. Cameron<br /> <br /> <br /> 'Twas Christmas broach'd the mightiest ale;<br /> 'Twas Christmas told the merriest tale;<br /> A Christmas gambol oft could cheer<br /> The poor man's heart through half the year.<br /> ~Walter Scott<br /> <br /> <br /> Christmas is a necessity.&nbsp; There has to be at least one day of the year to remind us that we're here for something else besides ourselves.&nbsp; ~Eric Sevareid<br /> <br /> <br /> Our hearts grow tender with childhood memories and love of kindred, and we are better throughout the year for having, in spirit, become a child again at Christmas-time.&nbsp; ~Laura Ingalls Wilder<br /> <br /> <br /> May Peace be your gift at Christmas and your blessing all year through!&nbsp; ~Author Unknown<br /> <br /> <br /> I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.&nbsp; ~Charles Dickens<br /> <br /> <br /> Never worry about the size of your Christmas tree.&nbsp; In the eyes of children, they are all 30 feet tall.&nbsp; ~Larry Wilde, <i>The Merry Book of Christmas</i><br /> <br /> <br /> Christmas is the season for kindling the fire of hospitality in the hall, the genial flame of charity in the heart.&nbsp; ~Washington Irving<br /> <br /> <br /> Gifts of time and love are surely the basic ingredients of a truly merry Christmas.&nbsp; ~Peg Bracken<br /> <br /> <br /> Isn't it funny that at Christmas something in you gets so lonely for - I don't know what exactly, but it's something that you don't mind so much not having at other times.&nbsp; ~Kate L. Bosher<br /> <br /> <br /> At Christmas, all roads lead home.&nbsp; ~Marjorie Holmes<br /> <br /> <br /> Instead of being a time of unusual behavior, Christmas is perhaps the only time in the year when people can obey their natural impulses and express their true sentiments without feeling self-conscious and, perhaps, foolish.&nbsp; Christmas, in short, is about the only chance a man has to be himself.&nbsp; ~Francis C. Farley<br /> <br /> <br /> It is Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air.&nbsp; ~W.T. Ellis<br /> <br /> <br /> For centuries men have kept an appointment with Christmas.&nbsp; Christmas means fellowship, feasting, giving and receiving, a time of good cheer, home.&nbsp; ~W.J. Ronald Tucker<br /> <br /> <br /> Even as an adult I find it difficult to sleep on Christmas Eve.&nbsp; Yuletide excitement is a potent caffeine, no matter your age.&nbsp; ~Carrie Latet<br /> <br /> <br /> Christmas is a time when kids tell Santa what they want and adults pay for it.&nbsp; Deficits are when adults tell the government what they want and their kids pay for it.&nbsp; ~Richard Lamm<br /> <br /> <br /> Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love!&nbsp; ~Hamilton Wright Mabie<br /> <br /> <br /> Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.&nbsp; ~Author unknown, attributed to a 7-year-old named Bobby<br /> <br /> <br /> Christmas is forever, not for just one day,<br /> for loving, sharing, giving, are not to put away<br /> like bells and lights and tinsel, in some box upon a shelf.<br /> The good you do for others is good you do yourself...<br /> ~Norman Wesley Brooks, "Let Every Day Be Christmas," 1976<br />urn:uuid:1c36cec1-5632-4ba9-ac84-851564037822'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs...Thu, 23 Dec 2010 18:26:33 -0600<p style="text-align: center;">'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br /> Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br /> The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,<br /> In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;<br /> <br /> The children were nestled all snug in their beds,<br /> While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads;<br /> And mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,<br /> Had just settled down for a long winter's nap,<br /> <br /> When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,<br /> I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.<br /> Away to the window I flew like a flash,<br /> Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.<br /> <br /> The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow<br /> Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below,<br /> When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,<br /> But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer,<br /> <br /> With a little old driver, so lively and quick,<br /> I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.<br /> More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,<br /> And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name;<br /> <br /> "Now, Dasher! Now, Dancer! Now, Prancer and Vixen!<br /> On, Comet! On Cupid! On, Donder and Blitzen!<br /> To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!<br /> Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"<br /> <br /> As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,<br /> When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky,<br /> So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,<br /> With the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too.<br /> <br /> And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof<br /> The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.<br /> As I drew in my hand, and was turning around,<br /> Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.<br /> <br /> He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,<br /> And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot;<br /> A bundle of toys he had flung on his back,<br /> And he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.<br /> <br /> His eyes -- how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!<br /> His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!<br /> His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,<br /> And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow;<br /> <br /> The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,<br /> And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath;<br /> He had a broad face and a little round belly,<br /> That shook, when he laughed like a bowlful of jelly.<br /> <br /> He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,<br /> And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself;<br /> A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,<br /> Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread;<br /> <br /> He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,<br /> And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk,<br /> And laying his finger aside of his nose,<br /> And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose;<br /> <br /> He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,<br /> And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.<br /> But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight,<br /> "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night."</p>urn:uuid:12f1844d-cf2b-4003-97cd-c818d3a9cb81One repeating Christmas story which is more legendary yet interesting in it's development as 'fact' (through the world-wide web vine) is about the origin of this popular Christmas song.&nbsp; This story is coming from the middle ages that Christmas w...Thu, 23 Dec 2010 18:15:38 -0600<strong>One repeating Christmas story which is more legendary </strong>yet interesting in it's development as 'fact' (through the world-wide web vine) is about the origin of this popular Christmas song.&nbsp; This story is coming from the middle ages that Christmas was extended from a one-day celebration to a 12-day celebration.&nbsp; It begins with Christmas day and ends with the Epiphany twelve days later.<br /> <br /> The story of the song develops that during this time period (mid-1500's to the early 1800's) people of the Catholic faith were being<strong><em> </em></strong>repressed by laws in England. To hide their Christianity but teach their faith, believers came up with a song that was a catechism for children to learn the Catholic faith, and each of the gifts were a clue to this. <ul> <li><em>In the song, '<strong>My true love' refers to God, 'gave to me' refers to being baptized,</strong> and the '<strong>partridge in the pear tree' is a direct reference to Jesus the Savior in the first verse of the song. </strong></em><br /> &nbsp; <ul> <li><strong><em>2 Turtle Doves</em></strong> = The Old and New Testaments </li> <li><strong><em>3 French Hens</em></strong> = Faith, Hope and Charity, the Theological Virtues </li> <li><em><strong>4 Calling Birds </strong></em>= the Four Gospels and/or the Four Evangelists </li> <li><strong><em>5 Golden Rings</em></strong> = The first Five Books of the Old Testament, known as the "Pentateuch", which <br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; gives the history of man's fall from grace. </li> <li><strong><em>6 Geese A-Laying</em></strong> = the six days of creation </li> <li><strong><em>7 Swans A-Swimming</em></strong> = the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, the seven sacraments</li> <li><strong><em>8 Maids A-Milking</em></strong> = the eight beatitudes </li> <li><strong><em>9 Ladies Dancing</em></strong> = the nine Fruits of the Holy Spirit </li> <li><strong><em>10 Lords A-Leaping</em></strong> = the ten commandments </li> <li><strong><em>11 Pipers Piping</em></strong> = the eleven faithful apostles </li> <li><strong><em>12 Drummers Drumming</em></strong> = the twelve points of doctrine in the Apostle's Creed <br /> &nbsp;</li> </ul> </li> <li><strong>Others believe the song was simply a delightful rhyme set to music</strong>.&nbsp; The song was developed and used as a "memory and forfeits game" that was played by the children of this time period.&nbsp; The game was played by a leader reciting the first verse, and continued around, each child reciting the next verse. <br /> &nbsp;</li> <li><strong>Many Christians do celebrate January 6 as the Epiphany,</strong> also known as the 12th Day of Christmas, the Twelfth Night, Three King's Day.&nbsp; The word <strong>epiphany</strong> means an appearance or manifestation especially of a divine being; an illuminating discovery as when the Magi finally found the baby Jesus. <br /> <br /> Note that this story does not have "hard evidence" as to the true nature of the song and is more likely anecdotal.&nbsp; It can certainly be used today to teach a part of Christianity.&nbsp; We repeat this story because it is a fun song to learn as well as other Christmas-related songs&nbsp; - no matter what your faith</li> </ul> <p><strong>Merry Christmas</strong> to all and wishes for a <strong>Happy New Year</strong>!</p>urn:uuid:531d1b58-895c-4d21-94d1-a027a84a9ef0Key Man Insurance Key man insurance is a sub-type of life insurance that is aimed at the business world, where one person's skills and abilities can make an enormous financial difference. If a large portion of your business hinges on a few key people...Fri, 19 Nov 2010 08:13:52 -0600<p><b>Key Man Insurance</b><br /> Key man insurance is a sub-type of life insurance that is aimed at the business world, where one person's skills and abilities can make an enormous financial difference. If a large portion of your business hinges on a few key people, you should give some thought to key man insurance.</p> <p><b>Who Needs It?</b><br /> Key man insurance is meant to cover the company's losses in the event of the death of a key employee. That employee may be a particularly capable sales person, a manager, or the company owner, the underlying assumption is that the company will suffer greatly should that person pass away.</p> <br /> <br /> <p><b>What Is It?</b><br /> Key man insurance is generally a <strong>cash value life insurance policy</strong>, with the length term being the time until that employee retires. The company pays the premiums on the policy and receives the death benefits if the employee unexpectedly dies. If the employee retires, the company may choose to also surrender the insurance contract, giving the employee the chance to convert the policy to a deferred compensation option&nbsp;and or death benefit to employee's spouse or heirs.</p> <br /> <br /> <p><b>How Much to Cover for?</b><br /> Losing a key employee can harm your business in multiple ways. Your key man insurance policy must provide enough coverage to account for all costs associated with such a loss. This loss is expressed not just in immediate loss of profits or revenue; the company must also bear the costs of hiring temporary replacement staff, of conducting the search for a suitable replacement, and the new employee's training.</p> <br /> <br /> <p>It is vital for your company's financial health that you select the best insurance policy for your specific case. The above description is meant as a brief outline only, and does not reflect the full complexity of selecting the best insurance policy. If you wish to receive additional information, please contact us&nbsp;for a key man insurance quote customized for your needs.</p>urn:uuid:12c69872-4dbc-4af0-8fdb-15cd82819f5fThe Veterans Day National Ceremony is held each year on November 11th at Arlington National Cemetery . The ceremony commences precisely at 11:00 a.m. with a wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns and continues inside the Memorial Amphitheater with...Thu, 11 Nov 2010 15:55:26 -0600<p>The Veterans Day National Ceremony is held each year on <strong>November 11th</strong> at Arlington National Cemetery . The ceremony commences precisely at 11:00 a.m. with a wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns and continues inside the Memorial Amphitheater with a parade of colors by veterans&rsquo; organizations and remarks from dignitaries. The ceremony is intended to honor and thank all who served in the United States Armed Forces.</p> <p>The Veterans Day National Committee also selects a number of regional sites for Veterans Day observances throughout the country. From stirring parades and ceremonies to military exhibits and tributes to distinguished veterans, these events serve as models for other communities to follow in planning their own observances.<br /> <br /> </p> <p>Because it is a federal holiday, many Americans have the day off from school or work for Veterans Day. Non-essential federal government offices are closed. All federal employees are paid for the holiday; those who are required to work on the holiday sometimes receive wages for that day in addition to holiday pay. The holiday is often celebrated by having a ravioli meal. This tradition dates back to the ending days of World War&nbsp;I when President Wilson, aware that the returning soldiers would be longing for home cooked meals, invited 2,000 soldiers to the White House and helped his staff chefs cook them ravioli, which had just become a mainstay in mainstream American kitchens due to commercial canning. In his Armistice Day address to Congress, Wilson was sensitive to the psychological toll of the lean War years: "Hunger," he remarked, "breeds madness."<br /> <br /> Congress amended this act on June 1, 1954, replacing "Armistice" with Veterans, and it has been known as Veterans Day since.</p>urn:uuid:fa194758-aca3-4a51-8f10-da4a3a36df47 Halloween, celebrated each year on October 31, is a mix of ancient Celtic practices,&nbsp;Catholic&nbsp; and Roman religious rituals&nbsp;and European folk traditions that blended together over&nbsp;time to create the holiday we know today. Straddli...Fri, 29 Oct 2010 13:56:55 -0500<div class="topic-intro"><em class="date-loc"></em> <p>Halloween, celebrated each year on October 31, is a mix of ancient Celtic practices,&nbsp;Catholic&nbsp; and Roman religious rituals&nbsp;and European folk traditions that blended together over&nbsp;time to create the holiday we know today. Straddling the line between fall and winter, plenty and paucity and life and death, <br /> <br /> Halloween is a time of celebration and superstition. Halloween has long been thought of as a day when the dead can return to the earth, and ancient Celts would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off these roaming ghosts. <br /> <br /> The Celtic holiday of Samhain, the Catholic Hallowmas period of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day and the Roman festival of Feralia all influenced the modern holiday of Halloween. In the 19th century, Halloween&nbsp;began to lose its religious connotation,&nbsp;becoming a more&nbsp;secular&nbsp;community-based children's holiday. <br /> <br /> Although the superstitions and beliefs surrounding Halloween may have evolved over the years, as the days grow shorter and the nights get colder, people can still look forward to parades, costumes and sweet treats to usher in the winter season.<br /> <br /> From all of us at <strong>All Access Insurance</strong>, <em>"Happy Halloween!"<img alt="" style="width: 30px; height: 45px;" src="/img/Library/Abstract/611013.JPG" /></em></p> </div>urn:uuid:023aebc9-7ca5-477b-a04b-0363e57b26f7Florence Chadwick was an ace swimmer. She set a world record in 1950 when she swam across the English Channel from France in 13 hours and 20 minutes. The following year, she swam from England to France and made history as the first woman to swim the ...Tue, 05 Oct 2010 11:25:42 -0500<p>Florence Chadwick was an ace swimmer. She set a world record in 1950 when she swam across the English Channel from France in 13 hours and 20 minutes. The following year, she swam from England to France and made history as the first woman to swim the channel from both shores.</p> <p>But in 1952, Chadwick learned a powerful lesson when she decided to swim the 26 miles between Catalina Island and Palos Verdes, Calif. The water was frigid that day and sharks trailed her. But these factors didn&rsquo;t diminish Chadwick&rsquo;s resolve; something else did.</p> <p>After 15 hours of swimming in rough waters, there was no sign of the coastline&mdash;there was no sign of anything because fog had shrouded the area. With her goal out of sight, Chadwick lost the desire to continue and climbed aboard an escort boat&mdash;not realizing that she was less than half a mile from shore.</p> <p>When asked why she decided to stop, she explained, &ldquo;It was the fog. If I could have seen land, I could have finished. But when you can&rsquo;t see your goal, you lose all sense of progress and you begin to give up.&rdquo;</p> <p>Her failure was only temporary, though, and a few months later, she made another attempt to swim the same waters. On that day, the sun was shining. And with her goal clearly in sight, Chadwick set another new swimming record.</p>urn:uuid:0e9681d0-0bb6-4128-b8d9-225413746f2bPreparation is important, but it is not enough. Planning can be very helpful, and yet it is not enough. Being inspired fills you with positive energy, and still it is not enough. Getting yourself motivated is great, but there's more to achievement th...Wed, 29 Sep 2010 11:57:30 -0500Preparation<strong> </strong>is important, but it is not enough. Planning can be very helpful, and yet it is not enough. Being inspired fills you with positive energy, and still it is not enough. Getting yourself motivated is great, but there's more to achievement than all these things. <p>For achievement requires <strong>performance</strong>. After all the planning, preparation and motivation, you must get up, get out there, and make it happen. </p> <p>Once you start to take action, you cross a threshold, and suddenly your perspective changes. You've gone beyond the stage of getting ready and into the realm of actually creating the achievement. </p> <p>Once you've started to take action, you're committed to following through with all that is in you. Put everything you have into the best, most positive, creative and valuable <strong>performance</strong> you can imagine. Achievement comes to those who go beyond the training, beyond the planning, beyond the motivation and into the zone of effective action. Achievement belongs to those who choose to become fully immersed in the <strong>performance</strong>.</p>urn:uuid:8ad65f75-4a77-4171-b529-7de805df9125Some of life's most valuable secrets are the ones you already know. They're the secrets you often choose to hide from yourself, or simply forget to think about. As you go through life's ups and downs, there is wisdom you possess that can help you gre...Tue, 21 Sep 2010 13:42:15 -0500Some of life's most valuable secrets are the ones you already know. They're the secrets you often choose to hide from yourself, or simply forget to think about. As you go through life's ups and downs, there is wisdom you possess that can help you greatly, and yet often you ignore it. It's all too easy to focus on the outer situation, and that can keep you from remembering who you truly are inside. <p>Inside you is a potent and compelling purpose. When you live true to that purpose, it can bring power and effectiveness to all that you do. </p> <p>There are so many times when the confusion and urgency of the world swirls around you, and nothing seems to make sense. At such times, direct your focus toward the real and abiding purpose that is essential to who you are. </p> <p>Keep yourself grounded in what really matters, and listen to the valuable secrets that your own considerable wisdom has to tell you. Remind yourself that you can rise above the turmoil, and that you can use the energy of the moment to advance the positive purpose that lives deep within you. </p> <p>Your wisdom increases with every experience, and has been doing so for a very long time. Remember often to tap into its enormous positive power. </p>urn:uuid:b0a6a958-61e8-46de-b2cf-a95eb67843e6<img src='https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif' align='left' />What is business continuation planning? Simply put, business continuation planning is developing and implementing a plan of succession. Through what is usually called a&nbsp;Buy-Sell Agreement, Proper business continuation planning will determine who...Mon, 13 Sep 2010 13:38:11 -0500<p xmlns:o="urn:www.microsoft.com/office" xmlns:st1="urn:www.microsoft.com/smarttags" xmlns:w="urn:www.microsoft.com/word"><strong>What is business continuation planning?</strong><br /> Simply put, business continuation planning is developing and implementing a plan of succession. Through what is usually called a&nbsp;Buy-Sell Agreement, Proper business continuation planning will determine who will take over your business if you die prematurely, become disabled or retire.<br /> <br /> Ensuring the continuation of your business with a properly drafted Buy-Sell Agreement will provide more than just a mechanism for transferring the business. It may save you thousands of dollars -- and hours -- by eliminating the costs, delays and frustration of IRS contests and litigation. When properly drafted, a Buy-Sell Agreement will establish the value of a business for the purposes of federal estate and gift taxes.<br /> <br /> </p> <table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3" width="450" align="center" xmlns:o="urn:www.microsoft.com/office" xmlns:st1="urn:www.microsoft.com/smarttags" xmlns:w="urn:www.microsoft.com/word"> <tbody> <tr bgcolor="#666699"> <td class="cTitle" colspan="5" align="center">These business owners did have a buy-sell agreement.<br /> Look at the difference in estate settlement.</td> </tr> <tr class="cSubHeader" bgcolor="#ffffcc"> <td rowspan="2"><img width="1" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> <td><img width="1" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> <td style="background-image: url(/pmlwebsite/pml_public/images/bg_chartyel.gif);" rowspan="2"><img width="23" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> <td><img width="1" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> <td rowspan="2"><img width="1" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> </tr> <tr class="cSubHeader" bgcolor="#ffffcc"> <td>Estate of John T. H. Mitchell<br /> Advertising Agency</td> <td>Estate of Slocum vs. US Hospital</td> </tr> <tr bgcolor="#666699"> <td class="cTitle" colspan="5" align="center"><img width="1" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> </tr> <tr> <td rowspan="5"><img width="1" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> <td><img width="1" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> <td style="background-image: url(/pmlwebsite/pml_public/images/bg_chartwh.gif);" rowspan="5"><img width="23" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> <td><img width="1" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> <td rowspan="5"><img width="1" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> </tr> <tr class="cData" valign="top"> <td>Buy-sell agreement value per share: $123</td> <td>Buy-sell agreement value per share: $123</td> </tr> <tr class="cData" valign="top"> <td>The IRS value per share $349</td> <td>The IRS value per share $1,109</td> </tr> <tr class="cSubHeader" valign="top"> <td>Court Decision: $123</td> <td>Court Decision: $100</td> </tr> <tr class="cData" valign="top"> <td><br /> Source:37 BTA 1 (1938)</td> <td><br /> Source:256FSupp 753 1 (1966)</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <br xmlns:o="urn:www.microsoft.com/office" xmlns:st1="urn:www.microsoft.com/smarttags" xmlns:w="urn:www.microsoft.com/word" /> <br xmlns:o="urn:www.microsoft.com/office" xmlns:st1="urn:www.microsoft.com/smarttags" xmlns:w="urn:www.microsoft.com/word" /> <table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3" width="450" align="center" xmlns:o="urn:www.microsoft.com/office" xmlns:st1="urn:www.microsoft.com/smarttags" xmlns:w="urn:www.microsoft.com/word"> <tbody> <tr bgcolor="#666699"> <td class="cTitle" colspan="5" align="center">These business owners had no buy-sell agreement.<br /> When they died, the IRS challenged what their<br /> estate claimed it was worth.</td> </tr> <tr class="cSubHeader" bgcolor="#ffffcc"> <td rowspan="2"><img width="1" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> <td><img width="1" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> <td style="background-image: url(/pmlwebsite/pml_public/images/bg_chartyel.gif);" rowspan="2"><img width="23" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> <td><img width="1" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> <td rowspan="2"><img width="1" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> </tr> <tr class="cSubHeader" bgcolor="#ffffcc"> <td>Estate of Harry S. Leyman<br /> Auto Dealer</td> <td>Estate of John Huntsman<br /> Steel Fabrication</td> </tr> <tr bgcolor="#666699"> <td class="cTitle" colspan="5" align="center"><img width="1" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> </tr> <tr> <td rowspan="6"><img width="1" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> <td><img width="1" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> <td style="background-image: url(/pmlwebsite/pml_public/images/bg_chartwh.gif);" rowspan="6"><img width="23" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> <td><img width="1" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> <td rowspan="6"><img width="1" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/PML_Public/images/spacer.gif" /> </td> </tr> <tr class="cData" valign="top"> <td>Estates estimate of business' value<br /> per share $536</td> <td>Estates estimate of business' value<br /> per share $18.40</td> </tr> <tr class="cData" valign="top"> <td>The IRS value per share $700</td> <td>The IRS value per share $36.64</td> </tr> <tr class="cSubHeader" valign="top"> <td>Court Decision: $630</td> <td>Court Decision: $29</td> </tr> <tr class="cSubHeader" valign="top"> <td>Time it took to settle estate:<br /> 8 years/11 months</td> <td>Time it took to settle estate:<br /> 5 years/6 months</td> </tr> <tr class="cData" valign="top"> <td><br /> Source:40 TC 100 (1963)</td> <td><br /> Source:66 TC 861 (1976)</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p xmlns:o="urn:www.microsoft.com/office" xmlns:st1="urn:www.microsoft.com/smarttags" xmlns:w="urn:www.microsoft.com/word"><strong>Learn more:</strong><br /> Succession Strategies &amp; Buy-Sell Agreements <a href="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/pages/PML_Public/Main_Content/planprod/financialgoals/businessplanning/business_continuation/buyselloptions_1604.html"><br /> </a>There are basically four types of Buy-Sell Agreements and several ways to fund them. Which are best for you? Contact us.<br /> <br /> What is your business worth?<a href="https://www.pennmutual.com/pmlwebsite/pages/PML_Public/Main_Content/planprod/financialgoals/businessplanning/business_continuation/businessworth_1613.html"><br /> </a>A key consideration in planning for the success of your business is understanding its value. For more information contact us.</p>urn:uuid:cf94ca2b-1066-4d2a-96f2-2f6c897a5d2aThis weekend is Labor Day; what plans do you have? This unofficial last weekend of summer is usually spent making sure the kids are ready for school, sorting through summer and fall clothes, and perhaps taking a trip to the beach. Take some time to p...Sun, 05 Sep 2010 18:23:03 -0500This weekend is <strong>Labor Day</strong>; what plans do you have? This unofficial last weekend of summer is usually spent making sure the kids are ready for school, sorting through summer and fall clothes, and perhaps taking a trip to the beach. Take some time to plan some special celebratory cookout and outdoor meals too. Even if you continue grilling through the fall and winter, there's something special about the last summer holiday cookout. <p>If you have time, visit a Farmer's Market for the best fresh corn, tomatoes, berries, and herbs to make your weekend meals even more special. Besides getting the best tasting produce, you're also supporting local farmers, who usually farm organically.</p> <p>And remember to think about why we celebrate <strong>Labor DAY</strong>!<br /> <br /> HERE'S TO THE END OF SUMMER!</p>urn:uuid:22591a94-5868-48f9-a5a4-c310d10eea0bLabor Day is a United States federal holiday observed on the first Monday in September (September 6 in 2010). The first Labor Day in the United States was celebrated on September 5, 1882 in New York City. In the aftermath of the deaths of a number of...Mon, 30 Aug 2010 20:36:06 -0500<p><b>Labor Day</b> is a United States federal holiday observed on the first Monday in September (September 6 in 2010).</p> <p>The first Labor Day in the United States was celebrated on September 5, 1882 in New York City. In the aftermath of the deaths of a number of workers at the hands of the U.S. military and U.S. Marshals during the 1894 Pullman Strike, President Grover Cleveland put reconciliation with Labor as a top political priority. Fearing further conflict, legislation making Labor Day a national holiday was rushed through Congress unanimously and signed into law a mere six days after the end of the strike. Cleveland was also concerned that aligning an American labor holiday with existing international May Day celebrations would stir up negative emotions linked to the Haymarket Affair. By the 20th century, all 50 U.S. States have made Labor Day a state holiday.</p> <p>The form for the celebration of Labor Day was outlined in the first proposal of the holiday: A street parade to exhibit to the public "the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations," followed by a festival for the workers and their families. This became the pattern for Labor Day celebrations. Speeches by prominent men and women were introduced later, as more emphasis was placed upon the economic and civil significance of the holiday. Still later, by a resolution of the American Federation of Labor convention of 1909, the Sunday preceding Labor Day was adopted as Labor Sunday and dedicated to the spiritual and educational aspects of the labor movement.</p> <p>Traditionally, Labor Day is celebrated by most Americans as the symbolic end of the summer. The holiday is often regarded as a day of rest and parades. Speeches or political demonstrations are more low-key than May 1 Labor Day celebrations in most countries, although events held by labor organizations often feature political themes and appearances by candidates for office, especially in election years. Forms of celebration include picnics, barbecues, fireworks displays, water sports, and public art events. Families with school-age children take it as the last chance to travel before the end of summer recess. Similarly, some teenagers and young adults view it as the last weekend for parties before returning to school, although school starting times now vary.</p> <p>In U.S. sports, Labor Day marks the beginning of the <strong>NFL</strong> and college football seasons. <strong>NCAA</strong> teams usually play their first games the week before Labor Day, with the NFL traditionally playing their first game the Thursday following Labor Day. The Southern 500/NASCAR auto race was held that day from 1950 to 2004.</p>urn:uuid:ca74d62d-52f1-4d41-a567-a2ce1a1c4864OK, folks, school&rsquo;s back in session. Our summer fun&rsquo;s over. It&rsquo;s time to take the foot off the gas on city streets and watch for pedestrians. With school back in session and classes at&nbsp;universities starting later this month, m...Tue, 17 Aug 2010 19:56:07 -0500<p>OK, folks, school&rsquo;s back in session. Our summer fun&rsquo;s over. It&rsquo;s time to take the foot off the gas on city streets and watch for pedestrians.<br /> <br /> With school back in session and classes at&nbsp;universities starting later this month, motorists will be seeing more pedestrians trying to cross streets. In fact, whether it was the cost of gas or people just trying to get more exercise, more pedestrians have been evident for the past few months on streets all around the Atlanta area. </p> <p>We, as a community, need to be aware of people &mdash; adults and children &mdash; walking more and using the crosswalks (which exist on every intersection even if they are not painted on the street). Pedestrians, too, need to be careful and not dart out into streets. Safety is everyone&rsquo;s responsibility. Parents should remind their kids about pedestrian safety and responsibility.<br /> <br /> <b>By and large </b>most motorists and pedestrians obey the rules of the road. The situation is much better than it was a few years ago. But frankly, there are still some drivers who just don&rsquo;t get it. Pedestrians who take a step off the curb when such drivers are headed down the street are taking their lives in their own hands.<br /> <br /> The biggest factor seems to be the speed at which some motorists think they can cruise our city streets. Some people are in a hurry and they ignore the 35 mph speed limit.<br /> <br /> And with school back in session, remember that the speed in school zones is 20 mph.<br /> <br /> The Atlanta area police do a good job moving the speed limit reminder trailer around town. Motorists should pay attention and note what speed they are driving when they come into the radar gun&rsquo;s sight. Driving 5 or 10 mph over the speed limit on a city street is dangerous.<br /> <br /> Please, slow down. Drive cautiously. And remember to stop when you see someone waiting to cross the street. </p>urn:uuid:720fb4dc-00a8-44c6-85d2-a33632b26595Today's radial tires are significantly safer than the bias-ply tires of 25 years ago. They still, however, need attention regularly. Under inflation, the most frequent cause of tire failure is considered the main culprit in many tire-failure fataliti...Fri, 13 Aug 2010 18:50:03 -0500Today's radial tires are significantly safer than the bias-ply tires of 25 years ago. They still, however, need attention regularly. Under inflation, the most frequent cause of tire failure is considered the main culprit in many tire-failure fatalities.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> Because of summertime's higher temperatures, the air pressure in a warm tire rises. Why? Because air is a gas, and gas expands when it heats up. Keep this in mind if you are checking tire pressures. The given tire pressure specifications are for when the tires are cold, therefore the pressure should be checked when the tires are cold.&nbsp; Remember, all that keeps you connected to the roadway is your tires.&nbsp;&nbsp; It takes no more than ten minutes to check your tire pressure!&nbsp;<br /> <br /> An improperly inflated tire can heat excessively, potentially leading to a blow-out on the highway.&nbsp; If you don't check your own, have your mechanic check them every 5,000 miles.&nbsp;&nbsp;Please&nbsp;take the time to&nbsp;check them.&nbsp; This will save wear and tear on your car(s), could save you from future claims and most importantly, could save your life!urn:uuid:7ccd6e76-4185-4578-83d8-9fdcc3723ccfA buy-sell agreement is a legally binding contract which protects the interests of the company&rsquo;s owners and permits the business to continue in the event of the death, disability, or retirement of a business owner. A buy-sell agreement, commonl...Fri, 06 Aug 2010 20:20:51 -0500A buy-sell agreement is a legally binding contract which protects the interests of the company&rsquo;s owners and permits the business to continue in the event of the death, disability, or retirement of a business owner. A buy-sell agreement, commonly referred to as buy-sell arrangement, is drafted by an attorney and can be implemented with all forms of companies including, partnerships, limited liability companies, and corporations. A buy-sell plan can be thought of as a written agreement to help a business navigate a successful business transition.<br /> <br /> A buy-sell agreement is a legally binding document that stipulates what will happen to a business when a business owner or partner becomes disabled, dies, retires or decides to sell his or her interest in the company. Buy-sell planning is an extremely important part of long term business continuation planning. The common types of buy-sell plans include the stock redemption agreement or entity plan, the cross purchase buy-sell agreement and the wait-and-see buy-sell agreement.<br /> <br /> Did you know you can capitalize on your current buy sell agreement with<strong> buy sell insurance</strong>? We sell insurance policies that can include current buy sell agreements between partners. Our universal life insurance is premium financed which means that you do not pay with out of pocket funds. As opposed to a traditional life insurance policy we use your assets to create new wealth.<br />urn:uuid:342bc576-e922-43e3-b7ee-46edb4276a2aKey person insurance, also formerly called key man insurance, is an important form of business insurance. There is no legal definition for "key person insurance". In general, it can be described as an insurance policy taken out by a business to compe...Tue, 27 Jul 2010 12:51:20 -0500<p><b>Key person insurance</b>, also formerly called <b>key man insurance</b>, is an important form of business insurance. There is no legal definition for "key person insurance". In general, it can be described as an insurance policy taken out by a business to compensate that business for financial losses that would arise from the death or extended incapacity of the member of the business specified on the policy. The policy&rsquo;s term does not extend beyond the period of the key person&rsquo;s usefulness to the business. The aim is to compensate the business for losses and facilitate business continuity. Key person insurance does not indemnify&nbsp; the actual losses incurred but compensates with a fixed monetary sum as specified on the insurance policy.</p> <p>An employer may take out a key person insurance policy on the life or health of any employee whose knowledge, work, or overall contribution is considered uniquely valuable to the company. The employer does this to offset the costs (such as hiring temporary help or recruiting a successor) and losses (such as a decreased ability to transact business until successors are trained) which the employer is likely to suffer in the event of the loss of a key person.<br /> <br /> </p> <p>There are four categories of loss for which key person insurance can provide compensation:</p> <ol> <li>Losses related to the extended period when a key person is unable to work, to provide temporary personnel and, if necessary to finance the recruitment and training of a replacement. </li> <li>Insurance to protect profits. For example, offsetting lost income from lost sales, losses resulting from the delay or cancellation of any business project that the key person was involved in, loss of opportunity to expand, loss of specialised skills or knowledge. </li> <li>Insurance to protect shareholders&nbsp;or partnership interests. Typically this is insurance to enable shareholdings or partnership interests to be purchased by existing shareholders or partners. </li> <li>Insurance for anyone involved in guaranteeing business loans or banking facilities. The value of insurance coverage is arranged to equal the value of the guarantee. </li> </ol> <p>A key person can be anyone directly associated with the business whose loss can cause financial strain to the business. For example, the person could be a director of the company, a partner, a key sales person, key project manager, or someone with specific skills or knowledge which is especially valuable to the company.<br /> <br /> Call us for more details about how&nbsp;key person insurance can help your company thrive.</p>urn:uuid:dfcca2c0-e12b-418d-90e3-df0f17ae2716Cooking outdoors was once only a summer activity shared with family and friends. Now more than half of Americans say they are cooking outdoors year round. So whether the snow is blowing or the sun is shining brightly, it's important to follow food sa...Sun, 18 Jul 2010 00:16:47 -0500Cooking outdoors was once only a summer activity shared with family and friends. Now more than half of Americans say they are cooking outdoors year round. So whether the snow is blowing or the sun is shining brightly, it's important to follow food safety guidelines to prevent harmful bacteria from multiplying and causing foodborne illness. Use these simple guidelines for grilling food safely.<br /> <br /> <strong>From the Store: Home First</strong><br /> When shopping, buy cold food like meat and poultry last, right before checkout. Separate raw meat and poultry from other food in your shopping cart. To guard against cross-contamination &mdash; which can happen when raw meat or poultry juices drip on other food &mdash; put packages of raw meat and poultry into plastic bags.<br /> <br /> Plan to drive directly home from the grocery store. You may want to take a cooler with ice for perishables. Always refrigerate perishable food within 2 hours. Refrigerate within 1 hour when the temperature is above 90 &deg;F.<br /> <br /> At home, place meat and poultry in the refrigerator immediately. Freeze poultry and ground meat that won't be used in 1 or 2 days; freeze other meat within 4 to 5 days.<br /> <br /> <strong>Thaw Safely</strong><br /> Completely thaw meat and poultry before grilling so it cooks more evenly. Use the refrigerator for slow, safe thawing or thaw sealed packages in cold water. You can microwave defrost if the food will be placed immediately on the grill.<br /> <br /> <strong>Marinating</strong><br /> A marinade is a savory, acidic sauce in which a food is soaked to enrich its flavor or to tenderize it. Marinate food in the refrigerator, not on the counter. Poultry and cubed meat or stew meat can be marinated up to 2 days. Beef, veal, pork, and lamb roasts, chops, and steaks may be marinated up to 5 days. If some of the marinade is to be used as a sauce on the cooked food, reserve a portion of the marinade before putting raw meat and poultry in it. However, if the marinade used on raw meat or poultry is to be reused, make sure to let it come to a boil first to destroy any harmful bacteria.<br /> <br /> <strong>Transporting</strong><br /> When carrying food to another location, keep it cold to minimize bacterial growth. Use an insulated cooler with sufficient ice or ice packs to keep the food at 40 &deg;F or below. Pack food right from the refrigerator into the cooler immediately before leaving home. <br /> <br /> <strong>Keep Cold Food Cold</strong><br /> Keep meat and poultry refrigerated until ready to use. Only take out the meat and poultry that will immediately be placed on the grill.<br /> <br /> When using a cooler, keep it out of the direct sun by placing it in the shade or shelter. Avoid opening the lid too often, which lets cold air out and warm air in. Pack beverages in one cooler and perishables in a separate cooler.<br /> <br /> <strong>Keep Everything Clean</strong><br /> Be sure there are plenty of clean utensils and platters. To prevent foodborne illness, don't use the same platter and utensils for raw and cooked meat and poultry. Harmful bacteria present in raw meat and poultry and their juices can contaminate safely cooked food.<br /> <br /> If you're eating away from home, find out if there's a source of clean water. If not, bring water for preparation and cleaning. Or pack clean cloths, and wet towelettes for cleaning surfaces and hands.urn:uuid:679cd3eb-d332-4b53-ac7b-909efc569d60CQ HealthBeat (7/13, Reichard, subscription required) reports, "Donald M. Berwick was sworn in as administrator of" CMS on "Monday afternoon in Boston by Health and Human Services Regional Director Chris Hager, a CMS spokesman said." Notably, "Berwic...Tue, 13 Jul 2010 12:39:11 -0500<p style="margin: 0px;"><a href="http://mailview.custombriefings.com/mailview.aspx?m=2010071301nahu&amp;r=3508041-aecc&amp;l=001-93c&amp;t=c" style="color: #0e4d96; text-decoration: underline;" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">CQ HealthBeat</span></a> (7/13, Reichard, subscription required) reports, "Donald M. Berwick was sworn in as administrator of" CMS on "Monday afternoon in Boston by Health and Human Services Regional Director Chris Hager, a CMS spokesman said." Notably, "Berwick will make his first public appearance at a press briefing Tuesday in Washington, D.C., to help unveil the final version of regulations spelling out how doctors and hospitals must use health information technology to qualify for higher Medicare and Medicaid payments." </p> <p style="margin: 0px;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The <a href="http://mailview.custombriefings.com/mailview.aspx?m=2010071301nahu&amp;r=3508041-aecc&amp;l=002-072&amp;t=c" style="color: #0e4d96; text-decoration: underline;" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Boston Globe</span></a>'s (7/13, Vallejo) Political Intelligence blog quotes Peter Ashkenaz, CMS spokesman, as saying that Berwick "will be getting to work right away." This "job gives him broad authority over the giant Medicare and Medicaid insurance programs, which are central to the Obama Administration's healthcare overhaul efforts." </p>urn:uuid:04ffd23d-09bb-41b9-a05d-f2a2330f10a3The holidays are a deadly time to be on the road. Every year, hundreds of Americans die as a result of alcohol-related car crashes. The Fourth of July has repeatedly ranked as the deadliest holiday of the year -- even deadlier than New Year's Day. Dr...Wed, 30 Jun 2010 15:02:18 -0500<p style="font-size: 13px;" class="BodyText" jQuery1277927209125="114">The holidays are a deadly time to be on the road. Every year, hundreds of Americans die as a result of alcohol-related car crashes. The Fourth of July has repeatedly ranked as the deadliest holiday of the year -- even deadlier than New Year's Day.</p> <p style="font-size: 13px;" sizset="6" sizcache="35" jQuery1277927209125="115">Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious risk. Aside from being irresponsible on the road, impaired driving carries serious insurance consequences. If your insurer discovers you&rsquo;ve been convicted of a DUI, your car insurance rates could increase or your policy may be cancelled or nonrenewed.</p> <p style="font-size: 13px;" class="BodyText" sizset="7" sizcache="35" jQuery1277927209125="116">The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been tracking car crash statistics for a quarter of a century. Fourth of July almost always tops the list. Statistics gathered over the past 25 years show that, on average, nearly 51 percent of all deadly traffic crashes on July 4 are related to alcohol &mdash; although that percentage varies from year to year. Other holidays on the list include Labor Day, New Year's, Memorial Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.</p> <table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="5" width="300" align="right" jQuery1277927209125="123"> <tbody> <tr align="center" bgcolor="#0b243b"> <td colspan="2"><strong>The deadliest days</strong></td> </tr> <tr valign="top" align="center" bgcolor="#a4a4a4"> <td><strong>Holiday</strong></td> <td><strong>Fatalities</strong></td> </tr> <tr class="BodyText" valign="top" bgcolor="#ccd9f7"> <td>Fourth of July<br /> (July 4-6)</td> <td>491 deaths<br /> (43 percent alcohol related) </td> </tr> <tr class="BodyText" valign="top" bgcolor="#ccd9f7"> <td>Labor Day<br /> (Aug. 30-Sept. 1)</td> <td>487 deaths<br /> (40 percent alcohol related) </td> </tr> <tr class="BodyText" valign="top" bgcolor="#ccd9f7"> <td>Memorial Day<br /> (May 24-26)</td> <td>425 deaths<br /> (41 percent alcohol related) </td> </tr> <tr class="BodyText" valign="top" bgcolor="#ccd9f7"> <td>New Year's<br /> (Jan. 1-4)</td> <td>423 deaths<br /> (41 percent alcohol related) </td> </tr> <tr class="BodyText" valign="top" bgcolor="#ccd9f7"> <td>Thanksgiving<br /> (Nov. 27-30)</td> <td>502 deaths<br /> (36 percent alcohol related) </td> </tr> <tr class="BodyText" valign="top" bgcolor="#ccd9f7"> <td>Christmas<br /> (Dec. 24-27)</td> <td>420 deaths<br /> (34 percent alcohol related) </td> </tr> <tr class="ItalicFont" bgcolor="#e6e6e6"> <td colspan="2">Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2008 data</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p style="font-size: 13px;" class="BodyText" jQuery1277927209125="117">Two years ago (the latest statistics available), 491 people died in car accidents during the <em>three-day</em> Fourth of July weekend. Out of that total, 43 percent died as a result of alcohol-impaired driving. By comparison, 423 people died that same year during the <em>four-day period</em> surrounding New Year's Day. In this case, 41 percent were alcohol related.</p> <p style="font-size: 13px;" class="BodyText" jQuery1277927209125="118">When people think of a deadly holiday, they generally associate it with New Year's Day. However, that association may be precisely why people stay off the roads on New Year's more than they do on July 4. (While the New Year's statistics are totaled over four days, the Fourth of July stats are for three days.)</p> <div class="sect vert"> <div id="qu_story_2" class="ad qu">"Drunk driving is a major public safety threat that still claims thousands of lives every year," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, in a recent media release. "Many states continue to step up their efforts to get drunk drivers off our roads, but the numbers tell us we have to do more."</div> </div> <p style="font-size: 13px;" class="BodyText" jQuery1277927209125="120">In addition, NHTSA research has consistently shown that more people are killed in crashes that involve an alcohol-impaired driver on the weekends and at night. In 2008 alone, 58 percent of drivers and motorcycle riders were killed in alcohol-related crashes that took place over the weekend and at night. But no matter what day it is, most crash fatalities occur on two-lane roads. Also, more people die while driving in rain compared to snow or sleet.</p>urn:uuid:9bf62aa1-3e50-4fcc-aee6-42b0b582e746Father's Day is a celebration inaugurated in the early twentieth century to complement Mother's Day in celebrating fatherhood and male parenting. It is also celebrated to honor and commemorate our forefathers. Father's Day is celebrated on a variety ...Wed, 16 Jun 2010 16:41:41 -0500<p><b>Father's Day</b> is a celebration inaugurated in the early twentieth century to complement Mother's Day in celebrating fatherhood and male parenting. It is also celebrated to honor and commemorate our forefathers. Father's Day is celebrated on a variety of dates worldwide and typically involves gift-giving, special dinners to fathers, and family-oriented activities. The first observance of Father's Day is believed to have been held on June 13, 1910 through the efforts of Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington. After listening to a church sermon at Spokane's Central Methodist Episcopal Church in 1909 about the newly recognized Mother's Day, Dodd felt strongly that fatherhood needed recognition, as well. &nbsp;She wanted a celebration that honored fathers like her own father, William Smart, a Civil War veteran who was left to raise his family alone when his wife died giving birth to their sixth child.</p> <p>Dodd was the first to solicit the idea of having an official Father's Day observance to honor all fathers. Enlisting help from the Spokane Ministerial Association in 1909, she arranged for the celebration of fatherhood in Spokane. On June 19, 1910, young members of the YMCA went to church wearing roses: a red rose to honor a living father, and a white rose to honor a deceased one. &nbsp;Dodd traveled through the city in a horse-drawn carriage, carrying gifts to shut-in fathers.</p> <p>It took many years to make the holiday official. In spite of support from the YWCA, the YMCA, and churches, Father's Day ran the risk of disappearing from the calendar. Where Mother's Day was met with enthusiasm, Father's Day was often met with laughter. The holiday was gathering attention slowly, but for the wrong reasons. It was the target of much satire, parody and derision, including jokes from the local newspaper <em>Spokesman-Review</em>. &nbsp;Many people saw it as the first step in filling the calendar with mindless promotions.</p> <p>A bill to accord national recognition of the holiday was introduced in Congress in 1913. &nbsp;In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson went to Spokane to speak in a Father's Day celebration and wanted to make it official, but Congress resisted, fearing that it would become commercialized. &nbsp;US President Calvin Coolidge recommended in 1924 that the day be observed by the nation, but stopped short of issuing a national proclamation. Two earlier attempts to formally recognize the holiday had been defeated by Congress. &nbsp;In 1957, Maine Senator Margaret Chase Smith wrote a proposal accusing Congress of ignoring fathers for 40 years while honoring mothers, thus "[singling] out just one of our two parents". &nbsp;In 1966, President Lyndon&nbsp;Johnson issued the first presidential proclamation honoring fathers, designating the third Sunday in June as Father's Day. Six years later, the day was made a permanent national holiday when President Richard Nixon signed it into law in 1972.</p> <p>In addition to Father's Day, International Men's Day is celebrated in many countries on November 19 for men and boys who are not fathers.</p>urn:uuid:b50f1037-c101-4b56-b5ca-ff05f09230cfMany people observe this holiday by visiting cemeteries and memorials. A national moment of remembrance takes place at 3 p.m. local time. Another tradition is to fly the flag of the United States at half-staff from dawn until noon local time. Volunte...Thu, 27 May 2010 11:10:19 -0500<p>Many people observe this holiday by visiting cemeteries and memorials. A national moment of remembrance takes place at 3 p.m. local time. Another tradition is to fly the flag of the United States at half-staff from dawn until noon local time. Volunteers often place American flags on each grave site at National Cemeteries.</p> <p>Members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars take donations for poppies in the days leading up to Memorial Day; the poppy's significance to Memorial Day is the result of the John McCrae poem "In Flanders Fields".</p> <p>In addition to remembrance, <strong>Memorial Day</strong> is also used as a time for picnics, barbeques, family gatherings, and sporting events. One of the longest-standing traditions is the running of the Indianapolis 500, an auto race which has been held in conjunction with Memorial Day since 1911. The Coca-Cola 600 has been held later the same day since 1961.</p> <p>The National Memorial Day Concert takes place on the west lawn of the United States Capitol. The concert is broadcast on PBS and NPR. Music is performed, and respect is paid to the men and women who gave their lives for their country.</p> <p>Some Americans view<strong> Memorial Day</strong> as the unofficial beginning of summer and Labor Day as the unofficial end of the season.</p> <p><strong>Memorial Day</strong> formerly was observed on May 30. The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW) advocate returning to this fixed date, although the significance of the date is tenuous.</p>urn:uuid:3740ce96-f2d9-48a0-8635-62a1a8f80e41In North America, the term recreational vehicle and its abbreviation RV are generally used to refer to a vehicle equipped with living space and amenities found in a home. A recreational vehicle normally includes a kitchen, a bathroom, a bedroom and a...Fri, 21 May 2010 13:41:17 -0500<p>In North America, the term <i><b>recreational vehicle</b></i> and its abbreviation <i><b>RV</b></i> are generally used to refer to a vehicle equipped with living space and amenities found in a home. A recreational vehicle normally includes a kitchen, a bathroom, a bedroom and a living room. In other countries the terms caravan or camper van are more common, and the vehicles themselves vary, typically being smaller than in North America.</p> <p>RVs are intended for everything from brief leisure activities such as vacations and camping, to full-time living, for which they are often parked in special trailer parks. (However, many trailer parks are reserved just for mobile homes, not to be confused with RVs and motorhomes.) RVs can also be rented in most major cities and tourist areas.</p> <p>Furthermore, they are occasionally used as mobile offices for business travelers and often include customizations such as extra desk space, an upgraded electrical system, a generator, and satellite Internet.<br /> <br /> We're here to provide you with<em>&nbsp;a fast, free insurance quote</em> for your RV in minutes, happy camping!</p>urn:uuid:60b3d94a-add6-4687-afca-f0373d45e3251. Sunny Side Always look at the sunny side of life the ups and the downs the truth of a beginning we need water to grow we need seeds to sow What we see today is bringing us more for tomorrow even if we can&rsquo;t tell as they say april showers bri...Thu, 06 May 2010 11:31:38 -0500<p><strong>1. Sunny Side</strong></p> <p>Always look at the sunny side of life</p> <p>the ups and the downs<br /> the truth of a beginning<br /> we need water to grow<br /> we need seeds to sow</p> <p>What we see today<br /> is bringing us more<br /> for tomorrow<br /> even if we can&rsquo;t tell</p> <p>as they say<br /> april showers bring may flowers.</p> <p><strong>2. Spring Garden</strong></p> <p>In the garden, the flowers are peaking<br /> their green tips<br /> edging up the dirt</p> <p>raindrops are glistening<br /> dropping from the petals to the leaves<br /> the winter is gone<br /> the spring is here</p> <p>April&rsquo;s shower brought<br /> a May flower.</p> <p><strong>3. Trying to Grow</strong></p> <p>April Showers Bring May Flowers<br /> the sun doesn&rsquo;t shine<br /> when you need to grow</p> <p>It&rsquo;s the mistakes and the misery<br /> that make us beautiful in the end.</p> <p><strong>4. Selling Roses</strong></p> <p>On the street corner<br /> there&rsquo;s a man<br /> with a bucket of roses</p> <p>red, yellow, pink too&hellip;</p> <p>for a dollar<br /> you can have one<br /> you can give one</p> <p>to someone special you know<br /> to remind them that<br /> you are a friend.</p> <p><strong>5. Daffodils</strong></p> <p>A daffodil clings<br /> amongst the downpour</p> <p>Yellow gold swimming<br /> out to sea</p> <p>So bright, so strong<br /> she doesn&rsquo;t drown<br /> she hangs on<br /> hanging on to bloom again</p> <p>april showers bring may flowers.</p> <p><strong>6. Not This April</strong></p> <p>They say April showers bring May Flowers<br /> to tell you that it&rsquo;s okay when it rains<br /> but the drops on my head<br /> are echoing what you said<br /> and like tears I just complain</p> <p>Nothing is blooming in my world today<br /> There&rsquo;s nothing outside the window<br /> the rain makes it all look so gray</p> <p>Should have waited<br /> it could have been early<br /> but I&rsquo;m not too late am I?<br /> The sun doesn&rsquo;t shine when I want it to</p> <p>The truths are exploring the vision<br /> It&rsquo;s the meaning of nothing</p> <p>The rain comes and it pours on me<br /> but I can&rsquo;t see the song for the sun.<br /> And even with the rain<br /> it doesn&rsquo;t seem like the flowers have begun.<br /> Not this April. I don&rsquo;t have you.</p> <p><strong>7. April and May</strong></p> <p>April says she&rsquo;s tired of it being cold<br /> May says she can&rsquo;t wait.</p> <p>April melted all the cold and ice<br /> May thought that was pretty nice</p> <p>April waltzed with lions<br /> May&rsquo;s never seen a lion yet</p> <p>April showers, brings<br /> May flowers.</p> <p><strong>8. April Showers</strong></p> <p>April showers bring May flowers,<br /> That is what they say.</p> <p>But if all the showers turned to flowers,<br /> We&rsquo;d have quite a colourful day!</p> <p>There&rsquo;d be bluebells and cockleshells,<br /> Tulips red and green,<br /> Daffodils and Chinese squill,<br /> The brightest you&rsquo;ve ever seen.</p> <p>You&rsquo;d see tiger lilies and water lilies,<br /> Carnations pink and blue,<br /> Forget-me-not and small sundrop<br /> Glistening with the dew.</p> <p>We&rsquo;d have fireweed and milkweed<br /> And many more different flowers.<br /> Mexican star and shooting star,<br /> Falling in the showers.</p> <p>And if all the showers turned to flowers<br /> On that rainy April day,<br /> Would all the flowers turn to showers<br /> In the sunny month of May?</p> <p><strong>9. April Showers</strong></p> <p>Life is a splendid thing, for sure<br /> Or could be, quite a lot,<br /> For being showered with loving friends<br /> Is for sure, the nicest thing we&rsquo;ve got.<br /> God&rsquo;s been watering all our hearts<br /> Of this we do not doubt,<br /> For in planting only lovely things<br /> We get the good things out.</p> <p>If we&rsquo;ve got some love to share<br /> With a friend all tried and true,<br /> We can sure feel sort of cozy<br /> Tucked under God&rsquo;s heaven so blue.<br /> But sometimes these days it pours with rain<br /> And we can hit some right raw mud,<br /> But when we patch it up with loving<br /> We get to chuckle at the fun.</p> <p>Wasn&rsquo;t God so nice to make the cloudy skies<br /> Come out with all the sunny hours<br /> Then in rolling out the cutest kids<br /> He planted all the flowers.<br /> This place is not all bad yet<br /> From all the praying on our knees,<br /> Because then it has a kinder face<br /> With all the nicest you and me&rsquo;s.</p> <p>God gives us all a healthy bite to eat<br /> And with more than enough to spend,<br /> Is generous too, to share even<br /> A little extra to lend.<br /> These days we find there&rsquo;s way too much<br /> Of shoving just to get,<br /> So we need to leave a lot more space<br /> For loving others yet.</p> <p>I do thank our caring Heavenly Father<br /> Our brightest morning star,<br /> That He is keeping watch so things<br /> Will be so blessed, just as they are.</p> <p>I want to send you lots of happy thoughts<br /> And prayers for God to bless you every day,<br /> With the softest of April showers<br /> To bring you the loveliest flowers in May.</p>urn:uuid:76cfb312-36f0-446a-b9ab-aefb82b545e6The United States celebrates Mother's Day on the second Sunday in May. In the 1880s and 1890s there were several attempts to establish a Mother's Day, but they didn't succeed beyond the local level.[48] The holiday was created by Anna Jarvis in Graft...Tue, 04 May 2010 12:14:13 -0500The United States celebrates Mother's Day on the second Sunday in May. In the 1880s and 1890s there were several attempts to establish a Mother's Day, but they didn't succeed beyond the local level.<sup id="cite_ref-virgina_48-0" class="reference"><a href="#cite_note-virgina-48">[48]</a></sup> The <a href="/wiki/Secular_holiday" class="mw-redirect" title="Secular holiday">holiday</a> was created by <a href="/wiki/Anna_Jarvis" title="Anna Jarvis">Anna Jarvis</a> in <a href="/wiki/Grafton,_West_Virginia" title="Grafton, West Virginia">Grafton</a>, <a href="/wiki/West_Virginia" title="West Virginia">West Virginia</a>, in 1908 as a day to honor one's mother.<sup id="cite_ref-vancouversun_3-2" class="reference"><a href="#cite_note-vancouversun-3">[4]</a></sup> Jarvis wanted to accomplish her mother's dream of making a celebration for all mothers, although the idea didn't take off until she enlisted the services of wealthy Philadelphia merchant John Wanamaker.<sup id="cite_ref-rouvalis_49-0" class="reference"><a href="#cite_note-rouvalis-49">[49]</a></sup> She kept promoting the holiday until President <a href="/wiki/Woodrow_Wilson" title="Woodrow Wilson">Woodrow Wilson</a> made it an official national holiday in 1914.<sup id="cite_ref-virgina_48-1" class="reference"><a href="#cite_note-virgina-48">[48]</a></sup> The holiday eventually became so highly commercialized that many, including its founder, Anna Jarvis, considered it a "<a href="/wiki/Hallmark_Holiday" class="mw-redirect" title="Hallmark Holiday">Hallmark Holiday</a>", <i>i.e.</i> one with an overwhelming commercial purpose. Jarvis eventually ended up opposing the holiday she had helped to create.<sup id="cite_ref-vancouversun_3-3" class="reference"><a href="#cite_note-vancouversun-3">[4]</a></sup><sup id="cite_ref-msnbc_50-0" class="reference"><a href="#cite_note-msnbc-50">[50]</a></sup> She died in 1948, regretting what had become of her holiday.<sup id="cite_ref-rouvalis_49-1" class="reference"><a href="#cite_note-rouvalis-49">[49]</a></sup> In the United States, Mother's Day remains one of the biggest days for sales of flowers, greeting cards, and the like; it is also the biggest holiday for long-distance telephone calls.<sup id="cite_ref-51" class="reference"><a href="#cite_note-51">[51]</a></sup>urn:uuid:fe52325c-fb59-48fb-8f7b-7519fed7c68dAdding Physical Activity to Your Life There are a lot of ways to get the physical activity you need! If you're thinking, "How can I meet the guidelines each week?" don't worry. You'll be surprised by the variety of activities you have to choose f...Wed, 07 Apr 2010 12:43:18 -0500<h1><span style="font-size: 18px;">Adding Physical Activity to Your Life <br /> <br /> There are a lot of ways to get the physical activity you need! <br /> <br /> If you're thinking, "How can I meet the guidelines each week?" don't worry. You'll be surprised by the variety of activities you have to choose from. To meet the guidelines for aerobic activity, basically anything counts, as long as it's done at a moderate- or vigorous-intensity for at least 10 minutes at a time. <br /> <br /> Stick With It <br /> <br /> By picking physical activities you enjoy and that match your abilities, it will help ensure that you stick with them. If you're not sure where to start, here are some examples. <br /> <br /> Example 1: Moderate Intensity Activity and Muscle Strengthening Activity <br /> <br /> Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday <br /> <br /> 30 minute brisk walk <br /> 30 minute brisk walk <br /> 30 minute brisk walk <br /> Weight training <br /> 30 minute brisk walk <br /> 30 minute brisk walk <br /> Weight training <br /> <br /> Total: 150 minutes moderate-intensity aerobic activity <br /> + 2 days muscle-strengthening activity <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Example 2: Vigorous Intensity Activity and Muscle Strengthening Activity <br /> <br /> Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday <br /> <br /> 25 minute jog <br /> 25 minute jog <br /> and weight training <br /> Weight training <br /> 25 minute jog <br /> <br /> Total: 75 minutes vigorous-intensity aerobic activity <br /> + 2 days muscle-strengthening activity <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Example 3: Mix of Moderate &amp; Vigorous Intensity Activity and Muscle Strengthening Activity <br /> <br /> Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday <br /> <br /> 30 minute brisk walk <br /> 15 minute jog <br /> Weight training <br /> 30 minute brisk walk <br /> Weight training <br /> 15 minute jog <br /> 30 minute brisk walk <br /> <br /> Total: The equivalent of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity <br /> + 2 days muscle-strengthening activity <br /> <br /> When to Check With Your Doctor <br /> <br /> Doing activity that requires moderate effort is safe for most people. But if you have a chronic health condition such as heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, or other symptoms be sure to talk with your doctor about the types and amounts of physical activity that are right for you.</span></h1> urn:uuid:2674b4cb-bcff-4e59-a6ba-fc4164e37cd7Before You Fly -- A Packing Checklist ...Tue, 06 Apr 2010 13:10:04 -0500<h2 class="moduleTitleBar">Before You Fly -- A Packing Checklist</h2> <div style="text-align: center;"> <table class="Basic" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" align="center"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <div class="genContent"> <table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 10px;" class="blkVerdanaText11" valign="top"> <table style="padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 5px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="200" align="right" VALIGN="top"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <table style="background-color: #ffffff;" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" align="right"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" colspan="4"> All Access Agency Insurance</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="4"><img width="5" height="5" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top"><img width="10" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></td> <td class="sectionTitle" valign="top" colspan="3" align="left">More Air Travel Tips</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="4"><img width="5" height="5" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 10px;" valign="top" align="left"><img width="10" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></td> <td style="width: 5px;" valign="top" align="left"> <li><img width="5" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></li> </td> <td style="width: 175px;" class="captionText" valign="top" align="left"> <script> if(window.location.pathname == "/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/traveltips_airporttips.html") { document.write("<B>General Airport Tips</B>"); } else { document.write("<A HREF='/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/traveltips_airporttips.html' originalAttribute="HREF" originalPath="/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/traveltips_airporttips.html" originalAttribute="HREF" originalPath="/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/traveltips_airporttips.html">General Airport Tips</a>"); } </script> <a href="http://www.weather.com/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/traveltips_airporttips.html">General Airport Tips</a> </td> <td style="width: 10px;" valign="top" align="left"><img width="10" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="4"><img width="5" height="5" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 10px;" valign="top" align="left"><img width="10" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></td> <td style="width: 5px;" valign="top" align="left"> <li><img width="5" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></li> </td> <td style="width: 175px;" class="captionText" valign="top" align="left"> <script> if(window.location.pathname == "/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/traveltips_cheaptickets.html") { document.write("<B>Finding the Cheapest Ticket</B>"); } else { document.write("<A HREF='/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/traveltips_cheaptickets.html' originalAttribute="HREF" originalPath="/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/traveltips_cheaptickets.html" originalAttribute="HREF" originalPath="/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/traveltips_cheaptickets.html">Finding the Cheapest Ticket</a>"); } </script> <a href="http://www.weather.com/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/traveltips_cheaptickets.html">Finding the Cheapest Ticket</a> </td> <td style="width: 10px;" valign="top" align="left"><img width="10" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="4"><img width="5" height="5" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 10px;" valign="top" align="left"><img width="10" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></td> <td style="width: 5px;" valign="top" align="left"> <li><img width="5" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></li> </td> <td style="width: 175px;" class="captionText" valign="top" align="left"> <script> if(window.location.pathname == "/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/traveltips_aircheck.html") { document.write("<B>Preflight Checklist</B>"); } else { document.write("<A HREF='/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/traveltips_aircheck.html' originalAttribute="HREF" originalPath="/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/traveltips_aircheck.html" originalAttribute="HREF" originalPath="/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/traveltips_aircheck.html">Preflight Checklist</a>"); } </script> <b>Preflight Checklist</b> </td> <td style="width: 10px;" valign="top" align="left"><img width="10" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="4"><img width="5" height="5" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 10px;" valign="top" align="left"><img width="10" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></td> <td style="width: 5px;" valign="top" align="left"> <li><img width="5" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></li> </td> <td style="width: 175px;" class="captionText" valign="top" align="left"> <script> if(window.location.pathname == "/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/traveltips_holiday.html") { document.write("<B>Holiday Travel Tips</B>"); } else { document.write("<A HREF='/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/traveltips_holiday.html' originalAttribute="HREF" originalPath="/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/traveltips_holiday.html" originalAttribute="HREF" originalPath="/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/traveltips_holiday.html">Holiday Travel Tips</a>"); } </script> <a href="http://www.weather.com/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/traveltips_holiday.html">Holiday Travel Tips</a> </td> <td style="width: 10px;" valign="top" align="left"><img width="10" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="4"><img width="5" height="5" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 10px;" valign="top" align="left"><img width="10" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></td> <td style="width: 5px;" valign="top" align="left"> <li><img width="5" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></li> </td> <td style="width: 175px;" class="captionText" valign="top" align="left"> <script> if(window.location.pathname == "/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/index.html") { document.write("<B>See All Travel Tips</B>"); } else { document.write("<A HREF='/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/index.html' originalAttribute="HREF" originalPath="/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/index.html" originalAttribute="HREF" originalPath="/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/index.html">See All Travel Tips</a>"); } </script> <a href="http://www.weather.com/activities/travel/vacationplanner/destination/tips/index.html">See All Travel Tips</a> </td> <td style="width: 10px;" valign="top" align="left"><img width="10" height="1" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="4"><img width="5" height="5" alt="" style="border: 0px solid;" src="" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <ul> <li>The first rule in packing is to pack light. Less luggage means shorter waits for baggage claim, less need for porters, and easier Customs inspections. Best of all is if you can get everything you need into your carry-on luggage, avoiding checking anything; however, only do this if all of your needs will fit into a reasonably-sized carry-on bag. <p>&nbsp;</p> </li> <li>Choose luggage that is lightweight, roomy, and easy to carry, yet durable enough to withstand rough treatment. Be sure that each piece has a secure lock. <p>&nbsp;</p> </li> <li>A suitcase with wheels or a baggage trolley is essential. Trips through the airport, bus terminal, or train station are much easier with bags that can be rolled; but be aware that wheels that don't retract can often be damaged or broken off during baggage handling. <p>&nbsp;</p> </li> <li>Choosing a basic wardrobe will help you pack light. Select clothes that will coordinate well with each other to avoid extra packing. <p>&nbsp;</p> </li> <li>Make a list of things you plan to take with you on your trip. This list will also prove helpful if your luggage is lost or stolen. <p>&nbsp;</p> </li> <li>Think of your intended activities and the duration of your stay. This will help you to narrow down your wardrobe and pack accordingly. <p>&nbsp;</p> </li> <li>Check the weather conditions for the area to which you will be traveling. Pack clothes suited to the weather conditions at your destination. <p>&nbsp;</p> </li> <li>Take travel-size toiletries instead of full bottles. This will help to save space and reduce weight. <p>&nbsp;</p> </li> <li>Remember to pack all liquids in plastic bottles with room to expand to avoid leakage. For added protection, place them in heavy plastic leakproof bags. <p>&nbsp;</p> </li> <li>Keep cameras and film on your person; never pack them in checked luggage. The security x-rays used on checked luggage can fog film, permanently ruining vacation photos. <p>&nbsp;</p> </li> <li>Take along an electrical adapter kit for your hair dryer, shaver or travel iron if you are traveling abroad. The electrical output in most European countries is 220 volts, while in the United States it is 110 volts; your electrical adapter kit will not only convert the electric current, but also accommodate foreign plug designs. <p>&nbsp;</p> </li> <li>Always include a collapsible bag that will fit easily into your luggage. This will help to accommodate any new purchases or dirty laundry you might have. <p>&nbsp;</p> </li> <li>Shoes should be packed in an old pair of socks to protect other clothes from being soiled. You may also want to stuff your shoes with socks or other small items; that way they won't be crushed in your suitcase, and you will save space. <p>&nbsp;</p> </li> <li>Suits, dresses, shirts, and blouses should be packed in plastic bags to limit wrinkling. Roll pajamas, nightgowns, sweaters and other casual wear to fill small spaces. <p>&nbsp;</p> </li> <li>Always carry your travel documents, medication, jewelry, traveler's checks, keys, and other valuables in your hand luggage. Items such as these should NEVER be packed in luggage that you intend to check. <p>&nbsp;</p> </li> <li>Be sure to bring along ample supplies of any medications you use, especially prescription medications. If necessary, explain to your doctor that you are going out of town to get a prescription for an extra supply. Always bring a copy of your prescription with you and keep it with your valuables, especially when traveling abroad; this will answer any questions any customs agents may have, and help ensure that you can acquire more of the medication if needed. <p>&nbsp;</p> </li> <li>Never take items of great monetary or sentimental value with you on a trip. Instead, pack with the notion that everything you are bringing will be left behind, and don't bring anything irreplaceable. <p>&nbsp;</p> </li> <li>If you plan to fly with skis, golf clubs, or other special or oddly-shaped luggage, check with the airline first to see whether special containers for these items are available. Many airlines provide this service free of charge. </li> <li>Need travel insurance? Call us for a quote at <strong>404-296-6565</strong></li> </ul> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> urn:uuid:c42b3a73-5cbc-448b-bea9-767d6e8e8b60Flood insurance policyholders who suffered damages from recent hurricanes that impacted the Southeastern U.S. may have a number of questions about their policies. In an effort to provide the most up-to-date information and ease their concerns, Nation...Wed, 31 Mar 2010 14:12:42 -0500<p>Flood insurance policyholders who suffered damages from recent hurricanes that impacted the Southeastern U.S. may have a number of questions about their policies. In an effort to provide the most up-to-date information and ease their concerns, National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) officials have put together answers to the most frequently asked questions. </p> <p><span class="bold">Who do I go to first for help with questions about my NFIP policy?</span><br /> You should call your insurance agent or insurance company first. </p> <p><span class="bold">Does my NFIP Policy cover all the buildings on my property?</span><br /> The Standard Flood Insurance Policy provides coverage for one building per policy. The only exception is 10% coverage for a detached garage. However, the total payment for flood damage to the detached garage and the house together cannot exceed the building policy limit. For coverage to apply, the garage can only be used for parking and storage. Any other use would void this coverage, i.e. if the garage has a workshop, the coverage would not apply. All other buildings on the premises need separate coverage. Policy limits for residential properties are $250,000 and $500,000 for commercial properties. </p> <p><span class="bold">Are the contents of my home covered under my NFIP Policy?</span><br /> Contents are not automatically included. If contents coverage is desired a specific amount must be named and a separate premium charged, but it doesn't need to be a separate policy. Contents coverage limits are $100,000 for residential policies and $500,000 for commercial policies. </p> <p><span class="bold">What is Actual Cash Value?</span><br /> Actual Cash Value (ACV) is the cost to repair or replace an insured item of property at the time of the loss, less physical depreciation. The value of physical depreciation is based on the age and condition of the item. Personal property, i.e. contents, is always paid at ACV. </p> <p><span class="bold">What is Replacement Cost Value? </span><br /> Replacement Cost Value (RCV) is the cost to repair or replace an insured item of property at the time of the loss without a deduction for physical depreciation. RCV is available when the insured property is the primary residence and the amount of coverage is equal to 80% or more of the replacement cost of the building. RCV is also available for residential condominium buildings. There is no required amount of coverage, but residential condominium buildings not insured to 80% of replacement cost will experience a reduction in their claims payments. </p> <p><span class="bold">Do I have to pay a deductible?</span><br /> Yes, all policies have deductibles for both buildings and contents coverage (if contents coverage has been purchased). </p> <p><span class="bold">I have a living area in my basement. Is that covered?</span><br /> Strict exclusions of coverage apply in any basement. A basement is defined as any area that is below grade on all four sides. In some cases, sunken living rooms can be defined as a basement. Building coverage in basements is limited to systems that service the building, such as electrical boxes, heat pumps and air conditioners. Contents in basements are covered with a few exceptions such as a washer, dryer, freezer and the food in it. Similar exclusions of coverage also apply in any enclosure below an elevated structure if the structure is post-FIRM. </p> <p><span class="bold">What does Post-FIRM mean? </span><br /> FIRM stands for Flood Insurance Rate Map. Post - FIRM means built after the effective date of the initial Flood Insurance Rate Map for the community or December 31, 1974, whichever is later. </p> <p><span class="bold">Does my NFIP policy cover my additional living expenses when I cannot return home?</span><br /> No. There is no coverage for Additional Living Expenses or Loss of Use or Business Interruption. </p> <p><span class="bold">Does my NFIP policy cover mold or mildew?</span><br /> Damage from mold and/or mildew resulting from the after-effects of a flood is covered but each case is evaluated on an individual basis. Mold and/or mildew conditions that existed prior to a flooding event are not covered. After a flooding event, the policyholder is responsible for taking reasonable and appropriate mitigation actions to reduce and /or eliminate mold and/or mildew. Reasonable actions taken to mitigate mold and/or mildew are covered (for example, the use of responsible drying-out techniques or application of mildicide at a reasonable cost). </p> <p><span class="bold">Does my NFIP policy cover water backed up from the sewer?</span><br /> Back up of water from sewers and drains are excluded, except when caused by a flood. </p> <p><span class="bold">What is Increased Cost of Compliance, or ICC?</span><br /> This coverage provides up to $30,000 to comply with the community's floodplain management regulations when a building has been substantially damaged by flood and is in a designated floodplain. </p> <p><span class="bold">Does my NFIP policy cover landscaping or my deck?</span><br /> No, there is no coverage for landscaping, trees, decks or outdoor furniture. Other exclusions are found in the Standard Flood Insurance Policy. </p> <p><span class="bold">What is a Proof of Loss?</span><br /> A Proof of Loss is a legal document that is your statement of the amount you are claiming under the policy. Under the NFIP policy, your adjustor may prepare a Proof of Loss as a courtesy. However, you, the insured, are responsible for submitting either the Proof of Loss prepared by your adjustor, or you may prepare your own. Generally, you must submit it to your insurance company within 60 days of when the damage occurred. </p> <p><span class="bold">What do I do if I do not agree with my adjuster? </span><br /> You should work with your adjustor as long as possible. Ask your adjustor to work with your contractor if your disagreement involves the building claim. If you cannot agree with your adjustor, ask for assistance from his supervisor. If you cannot resolve your differences, contact your insurance company. </p> <p><span class="bold">If I do not have insurance but would like to purchase it, what do I do?</span><br /> Call All Access at 404-296-6565. Flood insurance is available to any homeowner or business owner who lives in an NFIP-participating community. These are communities that have agreed to pass and enforce certain storm water and flood plain management ordinances. </p> <p>Information about flood insurance is also available on the web at <a href="http://www.fema.gov/nfip">www.fema.gov/nfip</a> or <a href="http://www.FloodSmart.gov">www.FloodSmart.gov</a>. </p> <p>On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages Citizen Corps, the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration. </p> urn:uuid:b4af1184-ab56-4c30-9229-f2a6ba2e3b7fIn the United States, "tornado season" generally is in the spring when tornadoes are more prevalent from April through July, with May and June being the peak months. But like thunderstorms, tornadoes can form any time of the year. The area in which t...Wed, 24 Mar 2010 10:59:40 -0500In the United States, "tornado season" generally is in the spring when tornadoes are more prevalent from April through July, with May and June being the peak months. But like thunderstorms, tornadoes can form any time of the year. <p>The area in which tornadoes are most prevalent is known as "tornado alley," typically defined the region from Texas north to Nebraska. But, of course, tornadoes can and do occur in every state in the country. </p> <p>For accurate and timely storm updates in your area, watch The Weather Channel, check for <a href="http://www.weather.com/newscenter/severeWxAlertsNational.html" originalPath="http://www.weather.com/newscenter/severeWxAlertsNational.html" originalAttribute="href">severe weather alerts</a>, listen to NOAA Weather Radio, or get free severe weather <a href="http://www.weather.com/services/twcalerts.html" originalPath="http://www.weather.com/services/twcalerts.html" originalAttribute="href">alerts on your phone and in your email</a> from The Weather Channel. </p> <center> <p><span style="color: #330099;"><b>Slideshow</b></span>: <a href="http://www.weather.com/newscenter/slideshow/explainer.tornado.html" originalPath="http://www.weather.com/newscenter/slideshow/explainer.tornado.html" originalAttribute="href">Tornado and severe thunderstorm watches and warnings</a></p> </center><a href="http://www.weather.com/ready/tornado/tornado_map.html" originalPath="http://www.weather.com/ready/tornado/tornado_map.html" originalAttribute="href"></a> <p><span style="color: #330099;"><b>Tornado Watches and Warnings</b></span> <br /> Two key alerts relate specifically to tornado conditions. </p> <p><span style="color: #330099;"><b> <li>Tornado Watch</li> </b></span></p> <li> - Conditions are <span style="color: #330099;"><b>conducive to the development</b></span> of tornadoes in and close to the watch area. <p><span style="color: #330099;"><b> <p>&nbsp;</p> <li>Tornado Warning</li> </b></span></p> </li> <li> - A tornado has actually been sighted by spotters or indicated on radar and <span style="color: #330099;"><b>is occurring or imminent</b></span> in the warning area. <p>In addition, severe thunderstorms can produce tornadoes, or cause damage of their own from wind gusts of 58 mph or greater and/or hail 3/4-inch in diameter or larger. </p> <p><span style="color: #330099;"> <p>&nbsp;</p> <li><b>Severe Thunderstorm Watch</b></li> </span></p> </li> <li> - Conditions are <span style="color: #330099;"><b>conducive to the development</b></span> of severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. <p><span style="color: #330099;"> <p>&nbsp;</p> <li><b>Severe Thunderstorm Warning</b></li> </span></p> </li> <li> - A severe thunderstorm has actually been observed by spotters or indicated on radar, and <span style="color: #330099;"><b>is occurring or imminent</b></span> in the warning area. <p>While tornadoes can still occur without a watch or warning being in effect, advances in the science and technology have greatly increased the ability of meteorologists to provide advance notice of them. </p> <p>It is difficult to generalize the clues that portend tornadoes, and even potentially dangerous, because people looking for given conditions may be led to a false sense of security when these conditions are not present. </p> <p><span style="color: #330099;"><b>Tornado Facts</b></span> <br /> <span style="color: #330099;"><b> <p>&nbsp;</p> <li></li> </b></span></p> </li> <li>A tornado may be in close proximity to sunshine, or it may be totally enshrouded in heavy rain. <p><span style="color: #330099;"><b> <p>&nbsp;</p> <li></li> </b></span></p> </li> <li>Sometimes the air before a twister hits is eerily calm; in other cases strong, gusty winds are followed by a tornado. <p><span style="color: #330099;"><b> <p>&nbsp;</p> <li></li> </b></span></p> </li> <li>Large hail and tornadoes can be produced by the same thunderstorm. However, many hailstorms are not accompanied by tornadoes, and vice versa. <p><span style="color: #330099;"><b> <p>&nbsp;</p> <li></li> </b></span></p> </li> <li>While many tornadoes move from a southwest direction, they can also travel from other directions such as west or northwest. <p><span style="color: #330099;"><b> <p>&nbsp;</p> <li></li> </b></span></p> </li> <li>Twisters can take a variety of not only sizes but also shapes: from the traditional Wizard-of-Oz-like funnel, to snake-like "multiple vortices," from a drawn-out rope shape to a wide, churning, "smoky" appearance. <p><span style="color: #330099;"><b> <p>&nbsp;</p> <li></li> </b></span></p> </li> <li>The sound of a tornado has been likened to that of a freight train or a jet engine, but there is no guarantee that you will hear such a noise before it's too late. </li> urn:uuid:0b5f41ff-7425-42f9-bc5a-fb314f309c93 Appraise your trade-in vehicle online using kbb.com or edmunds.com or both. These websites may give you entirely different values, so combining an average to come up with a ballpark is good. They also narrow down dealer, private party and t...Fri, 19 Mar 2010 14:49:39 -0500<ol> <li> <div class="stepBg" itxtvisited="1"><span itxtvisited="1">A</span>ppraise your trade-in vehicle online using kbb.com or edmunds.com or both. These websites may give you entirely different values, so combining an average to come up with a ballpark is good. They also narrow down dealer, private party and trade car values. If you are not trading or selling your old car, skip this step.</div> </li> </ol> <ol> <li id="jsArticleStep2" itxtvisited="1"> <div class="stepBg" itxtvisited="1">Step <span itxtvisited="1">2</span></div> <p itxtvisited="1">Make yourself comfortable! Now you will start to research your dream car on the Internet by finding local car dealerships and private party sellers. If you are comfortable you can go to craigslist or eBay for starters, they will give you corner lot or smaller dealer information.</p> </li> <li id="jsArticleStep3" itxtvisited="1"> <div class="stepBg" itxtvisited="1">Step <span itxtvisited="1">3</span></div> <p itxtvisited="1">Print out the cars you are interested in or keep a notebook handy with pricing, mileage and of course, the used car dealership and information.</p> </li> <li id="jsArticleStep4" itxtvisited="1"> <div class="stepBg" itxtvisited="1">Step <span itxtvisited="1">4</span></div> <p itxtvisited="1">Fill out the Internet quote form on the dealer website if you are purchasing your used vehicle from them. Be sure to specify options you are looking for or if you will consider similar makes, models or mileage.</p> </li> <li id="jsArticleStep5" itxtvisited="1"> <div class="stepBg" itxtvisited="1">Step <span itxtvisited="1">5</span></div> <p itxtvisited="1">Pull the carfax report on the car. This is located on the dealer website and is normally free of charge. This will tell you if there are title problems, if the car was maintained, how many owners, and odometer readings or problems.</p> </li> <li id="jsArticleStep6" itxtvisited="1"> <div class="stepBg" itxtvisited="1">Step <span itxtvisited="1">6</span></div> <p itxtvisited="1">Have a mechanic check the car over in person if you are purchasing the car from a private party or even a dealer. If you are not in the general area, hire a mechanic over the phone and pay via credit card. This will be at your own expense but can save hundreds later.</p> </li> <li id="jsArticleStep7" itxtvisited="1"> <div class="stepBg" itxtvisited="1">Step <span itxtvisited="1">7</span></div> <p itxtvisited="1">Consider joining Sam's club and looking online on their website for used car dealers in your area. You may get better service and a substantial discount. There are limited dealers in the area.</p> </li> <li id="jsArticleStep8" itxtvisited="1"> <div class="stepBg" itxtvisited="1">Step <span itxtvisited="1">8</span></div> <p itxtvisited="1">Look for your used car quote via phone or email. Once you receive it and are interested, set a day aside to go visit some used car dealers.</p> </li> <li id="jsArticleStep9" itxtvisited="1"> <div class="stepBg" itxtvisited="1">Step <span itxtvisited="1">9</span></div> <p itxtvisited="1">Bring in the blue book values, specifications, consumer reports print out, and any other information you have on the car. If you are looking at a car that you did not research, ask to use the computer at the dealership.</p> </li> <li id="jsArticleStep10" itxtvisited="1"> <div class="stepBg" itxtvisited="1">Step <span itxtvisited="1">10</span></div> <p itxtvisited="1">Research different insurance companies by going to <a href="http://www.allaccessquote.com">http://www.allaccessquote.com</a> to see what it is going to cost to insure your used car. Follow up with a phone call and the VIN number once you decide to purchase.</p> </li> <li id="jsArticleStep11" itxtvisited="1"> <div class="stepBg" itxtvisited="1">Step <span itxtvisited="1">11</span></div> <p itxtvisited="1">Leave your checkbook or credit card at home because you will be less tempted and pressured to buy a car, perhaps, that you really do not want or cannot afford.</p> </li> <li id="jsArticleStep12" itxtvisited="1"> <div class="stepBg" itxtvisited="1">Step <span itxtvisited="1">12</span></div> <p itxtvisited="1">Negotiate a fair value for your trade using the information you gathered on the blue book websites. It helps to have a printout with you. If you want to sell your car, you can skip this step and tell them you do not have a trade.</p> </li> <li id="jsArticleStep13" itxtvisited="1"> <div class="stepBg" itxtvisited="1">Step <span itxtvisited="1">13</span></div> <p itxtvisited="1">Use online calculators to find out exactly what you will be paying for your used car. This is especially true if you are financing the vehicle. Use the same websites in step one to compute actual car cost and value with the features you want. This is sometimes tricky for cars with more than three models.</p> </li> <li id="jsArticleStep14" itxtvisited="1"> <div class="stepBg" itxtvisited="1">Step <span itxtvisited="1">14</span></div> <p itxtvisited="1">Arrange financing with your credit union or a local bank. Research interest rates online and follow up with a phone call. Often times the low financing rates that used car dealers advertise are really much higher or only for a good or excellent credit score. You do not need to tell the dealer you have done this.</p> </li> <li id="jsArticleStep15" itxtvisited="1"> <div class="stepBg" itxtvisited="1">Step <span itxtvisited="1">15</span></div> <p itxtvisited="1">Negotiate extras such as oil changes or satellite radio with the dealer and try to go a few thousand under the sticker price for starters.</p> </li> <li id="jsArticleStep16" itxtvisited="1"> <div class="stepBg" itxtvisited="1">Step <span itxtvisited="1">16</span></div> <p itxtvisited="1">Read the entire document before signing the used car agreement and know what you are paying for the car, not just the monthly lease or loan payment.</p> </li> </ol> <br />     16.    Step 17<br /> <br />               Call us for an auto insurance quote for the best rates. urn:uuid:3e6c2e4e-d942-4743-94e6-6ed486d3b322Keep these essentials in stock to keep your home safe and spotless. You can get just about everything you need for healthy cleaning at the grocery store without ever wandering down the commercial cleaning aisle. Here's a shopping list from cleaning ...Tue, 16 Mar 2010 14:07:06 -0500<strong>Keep these essentials in stock to keep your home safe and spotless.<br /> </strong><br /> You can get just about everything you need for healthy cleaning at the grocery store without ever wandering down the commercial cleaning aisle. Here's a shopping list from cleaning expert Mary Findley, president of Mary Moppins Cleaning System: <br /> <br /> <ul class="bt"> <li>1 gallon white vinegar</li> <br /> <br /> <li>1 bottle rubbing alcohol</li> <br /> <br /> <li>1 large box baking soda</li> <br /> <br /> <li>1 gallon distilled water</li> <br /> <br /> <li>Ivory liquid dishwashing detergent</li> <br /> <br /> <li>An oxygen-based cleaning product like Bio-Ox (<a href="http://www.bio-ox.com" target="_blank">www.bio-ox.com</a>)</li> <br /> <br /> <li>Nature's Miracle (found at most pet stores or in the pet aisle)</li> <br /> <br /> <li>Foaming shaving cream </li> <br /> <br /> <li>Hydrogen peroxide (in the first-aid aisle)</li> <br /> <br /> <li>Also pick up three or four spray bottles. Use each bottle for the make-your-own cleaning products listed above.</li> </ul> urn:uuid:44e44b24-d110-49be-9a9e-6b116bf542c0Traveling Safely in Your RV Traveling safely is important to everyone who takes to the road in a motor home or travel trailer. Make sure your RV is well maintained and ready to go when you are. That's the first step toward having a safe trip. Befor...Mon, 15 Mar 2010 16:17:10 -0500<p><span class="h2"><strong>Traveling Safely in Your RV <br /> </strong></span><span class="h1"><br /> </span>Traveling safely is important to everyone who takes to the road in a motor home or travel trailer. Make sure your RV is well maintained and ready to go when you are. That's the first step toward having a safe trip.</p> <p><span class="h2">Before your trip<br /> <br /> </span><strong>Remember to observe the common principles of safety: </strong></p> <blockquote sizset="108" sizcache="0"> <ul sizset="108" sizcache="0"> <li>Obey the speed limit </li> <li>Buckle your seat belt </li> <li>Know your rig height before you go </li> <li>Install a deadbolt door lock on your RV </li> <li>Inspect all belts and hoses for cracking, especially radiator hoses. Replace as needed. </li> <li>Check headlights, tires (air and tread) and turn signals. </li> <li>Check any hitch or towing equipment </li> <li>Verify your insurance coverage </li> <li>Check your fire extinguisher and smoke alarms </li> <li>Clean your cooking vent hood to avoid grease fires </li> <li>Leave your itinerary with relatives or friends in case of emergency </li> </ul> </blockquote> <p class="h2" style="text-align: left;"><strong>Tools to keep handy</strong></p> <blockquote sizset="119" sizcache="0"> <ul sizset="119" sizcache="0"> <li>Flashlight </li> <li>Jumper Cables </li> <li>Flat Repair Spray </li> <li>Road Flares </li> <li>Adjustable Wrench </li> <li>Screwdrivers </li> <li>Pliers </li> <li>Duct Tape (for temporary repairs to ruptured radiator hoses) </li> </ul> </blockquote> <p><span class="h2"><strong>Park in a sheltered area<br /> <br /> </strong></span>Avoid trees or power lines that could fall on your vehicle. The safest place during lightning is inside your RV. If you're in the path of a tornado, you are safest in a tornado shelter. Avoid parking in low areas that are prone to flash flooding.</p> <p><strong><span class="h2">Brochure for RV travelers<br /> </span><br /> </strong>If you'd like a copy of our brochure for RV travelers, including travel, safety and insurance information, drop a note to <em>All Access</em> <em>Agency Insurance</em>, 4563 Memorial Drive, Decatur, GA 30032  or send us an e-mail <a href="mailto:greg@allaccessquote.com">greg@allaccessquote.com</a> .</p> urn:uuid:e6991730-c0fa-43f0-ac32-1e221fb438c2There are over 240 million registered motor vehicles in the U.S., according to the Census Bureau. At a given time, as many as a third of those clutter American roadways, and it is estimated that one-fourth of those are being used in the course of wor...Thu, 11 Mar 2010 12:07:21 -0600There are over 240 million registered motor vehicles in the U.S., according to the Census Bureau. At a given time, as many as a third of those clutter American roadways, and it is estimated that one-fourth of those are being used in the course of work. <br /> <br /> Running errands, making deliveries, visiting customers. Even for those whose employment is not based on driving, it’s fair to say that your vehicle is an essential part of your employment. This presents an important question: If you are involved in an accident in the course of employment, are you covered by your personal <a href="consumer/auto/default.aspx">auto insurance</a> policy (PAP)? <br /> <br /> Like most insurance questions, the answer depends on circumstance. For example, what kind of car are you driving? Does the car belong to you or someone else? What type of business are you in? <br /> <br /> Consider the language found in the typical PAP. At a glance, many policyholders are shocked to see that the PAP appears to exclude coverage for the use of any vehicle in the course of business other than farming or ranching. However, a very broad exception to this exclusion allows coverage for the business use of a vehicle provided it is one of three types: 1) a private passenger auto, 2) a pickup or van, or 3) trailer while used with the aforementioned. This exception suggests that as long as the vehicle is one of these three types, coverage remains intact after the accident. <br /> <br /> But policyholders should proceed with caution, since some PAPs are not as generous. For example, some versions may be more restrictive towards pickups or vans, possibly including a gross vehicle weight (GVW) limitation or a clause that restricts coverage to owned pickups or vans only. Be sure to consult your policy before driving any pickup or van for work. <br /> <br /> Further, policyholders should understand that any coverage permitted for business use of personal vehicles by the PAP is not intended for these three vehicle categories: <br /> <br /> <i><b>Commercial-type vehicles.</b></i> The PAP restricts business use to private passenger autos, pickups and vans. While they can be purchased personally, box trucks, tractor trailers, shuttle busses and other commercial-type vehicles do not fit this description; such vehicles require a commercial auto policy. <br /> <br /> <i><b>Furnished or available for regular use.</b></i> Often called the “company car” exclusion, this provision is dangerous and must be remedied if the exposure exists. The reason is that a typical PAP will exclude coverage for a vehicle that is regularly available to the policyholder but is not specifically insured under the PAP. For example, if you are furnished a company car as a benefit to your employment, make certain that you are covered by your employer’s auto insurance policy. If not, specific action is required to extend coverage under your PAP; it will not do so automatically. The good news is that this coverage change is usually inexpensive and can be done easily; just be sure to request the change now, before the accident happens. While the definition of furnished or available for regular use varies by case, err on the side of caution. Don’t assume that because you don’t take it home with you each night or that you only drive it occasionally you’re in the clear. Regardless, a vehicle owned by your employer could be considered available for your regular use. This exclusion presents a potential gap that is too risky to ignore; your <b>Trusted Choice^{<span style="font-size: 13px;">®</span>}</b> agent can help you take the appropriate steps to close it. <br /> <br /> <i><b>Vehicles that are the business.</b></i> A PAP will not cover your vehicle if you use it to carry people for a fee, such as a taxi, limo or shuttle. The only exception is a share-the-expense car pool. And if you’re planning to make a few extra bucks delivering pizzas, auto parts, newspapers or other goods, proceed with caution. Many PAPs also remove coverage for vehicles that are used to deliver food or other types of property for a fee. <br /> <br /> While in most cases the PAP will cover you for business use of a personal vehicle, there are situations where it will not. Such situations are not uncommon and, if not remedied, could result in significant financial detriment for you and your family. Consult your <b>Trusted Choice^{<span style="font-size: 13px;">®</span>}</b> agent for advice on how to close potentially devastating gaps in your PAP today. urn:uuid:bbe71254-3887-47ed-b8dd-1e68ac939effRiding a motorcycle, you are far more likely to get in an accident and far more likely to get hurt than if you are driving a car. That's a fact. In fact, according to The US Highway Safety Authority, in 2002 20.9 cars out of 100,000 ended up in fatal...Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:56:53 -0600<p style="text-align: left;">Riding a motorcycle, you are far more likely to get in an accident and far more likely to get hurt than if you are driving a car.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">That's a fact.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">In fact, according to The US Highway Safety Authority, in 2002 20.9 cars out of 100,000 ended up in fatal crashes. The rate for motorcycles is 66.7 per 100,000.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">That means that you are 209% more likely to be in a fatal crash on a motorcycle.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">But, don't give your bike away. We are dedicated to providing you with resources and information to make your ride safer and more enjoyable.  Explore all the information in this section to learn more about techniques and products that can help save your life. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">So, why do most motorcycle accidents happen?</p> <p style="text-align: left;">According to the <a href="/hurt_study.html">Hurt Study</a> (the most comprehensive motorcycle safety study to date):</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>"The failure of motorists to detect and recognize motorcycles in traffic is the predominating cause of motorcycle accidents. The driver of the other vehicle involved in collision with the motorcycle <span style="color: #ff0000;" class="style2">did not see</span> the motorcycle before the collision, or <span style="color: #ff0000;" class="style2">did not see</span> the motorcycle until too late to avoid the collision."</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;">What's the lesson here?  (HINT: It's the part in <span class="style1"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">red</span></strong></span>)</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Most accidents happen because a driver of a car didn't see the motorcyclist.  We are here to make sure you know that there are ways to be seen – check out these articles on <a href="/motorcycle_safety_gear.html">equipment for increased visibility</a> and the article on <a href="/motorcycle_safety_gear.html">reflective clothing</a>.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">According to the <a href="/hurt_study.html">Hurt Study</a>, 77% of two vehicle accidents occur in the 10, 11, 12, 1, and 2 o'clock positions of the motorcycle. The area behind the driver, accounts only for about 3% of impacts.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">We see that drivers aren't just seeing motorcyclists, most of the time they aren't seeing them when they are approaching from the front.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">The Hurt Study also teaches us that the most frequent accident happens when the motorcycle is proceeding straight and a car makes a left turn in front of the oncoming motorcycle. Intersections are the most likely place for the motorcycle accident, with the other vehicle violating the motorcycle's right-of-way. View the articles on <a href="/motorcycle_riding_skills_techniques.html">riding technique</a> to learn ways to avoid these typical accidents.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Likelihood of injury is extremely high in motorcycle accidents-98% of the multiple vehicle collisions and 96% of the single vehicle accidents result in some kind of injury to the motorcycle rider; 45% resulted in more than a minor injury.*  Good body protection can help if you are in an accident.  Check out this information on <a href="/motorcycle_safety_gear.html">motorcycle safety gear</a>.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Remember - Knowledge is Power – use this information to be a safe motorcycle driver and to get the equipment you need to stay safe.</p> <p style="text-align: left;" class="resource">*"Hurt Study Revisited", <a href="http://www.motorbyte.com/mmm/pages/safety/safety38.htm" target="_blank">Minnesotta Motorcycle Monthly</a></p> urn:uuid:63558f46-05aa-4bd3-b04e-c8e7c8d88801Boaters enjoy the feel of sun and spray. So it’s tempting to boat without wearing a life jacket – especially on nice days. But modern life jackets are available in a wide variety of shapes, colors, and sizes. Many are thin and flexible. Some are buil...Tue, 09 Mar 2010 11:43:19 -0600<p>Boaters enjoy the feel of sun and spray. So it’s tempting to boat without wearing a life jacket – especially on nice days. But modern life jackets are available in a wide variety of shapes, colors, and sizes. Many are thin and flexible. Some are built right into fishing vests or hunter coats. Others are inflatable — as compact as a scarf or fanny pack until they hit water, when they automatically fill with air.<br /> <br /> There’s no excuse not to wear a life jacket on the water!<br /> <br /> <a href="/assets/1/Publications/howtochoosetherightlifejacket_brochure.pdf">How to Choose the Right Life Jacket Brochure - PDF</a></p> <h4>Things to Know:</h4> <ul> <li>Certain life jackets are designed to keep your head above water and help you remain in a position which permits proper breathing. <br />  </li> <li>To meet U.S. Coast Guard requirements, a boat must have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved Type I, II, III, or V life jacket for each person aboard. Boats 16 feet and over must have at least one Type IV throwable device as well.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>All states have regulations regarding life jacket wear by children.<br />  </li> <li>Adult-sized life jackets will not work for children. Special life jackets are available. To work correctly, a life jacket must be worn, fit snugly, and not allow the child’s chin or ears to slip through.</li> </ul> <ul> <li> Life jackets should be tested for wear and buoyancy at least once each year. Waterlogged, faded, or leaky jackets should be discarded.<br />  </li> <li>Life jackets must be properly stowed.<br />  </li> <li>A life jacket — especially a snug-fitting flotation coat or deck-suit style — can help you survive in cold water.</li> </ul> <h4>How Do Life Jackets Save Lives?</h4> <ul> <li> When capsized in rough water.</li> <li> When sinking in unexpectedly heavy sea conditions.</li> <li> When thrown from the boat as a result of a collision.</li> <li> When injured by rocks or submerged objects.</li> <li> When unconscious from carbon monoxide fumes.</li> <li> When tossed into freezing water.</li> <li> When thrown off balance while fishing.</li> <li> When unable to swim because of heavy or waterlogged clothing.</li> </ul> <p> <br /> <em>All recreational boats must carry one wearable lifejacket (Type I, II, III or Type V lifejacket) for each person aboard. A Type V lifejacket provides performance of either a Type I, II, or III lifejacket (as marked on its label) and must be used according to the label requirements. Any boat 16ft and longer (except canoes and kayaks) must also carry one throwable lifejacket (Type IV lifejacket).</em></p> <p class="h3"><strong>Lifejackets must be</strong></p> <ul> <li class="textlistshort"><em><span class="requirements2">Coast Guard approved, </span></em></li> <li class="textlistshort"><em><span class="requirements2">in good and serviceable condition, and </span></em></li> <li class="textlistshort"><em><span class="requirements2">the appropriate size for the intended user.</span></em></li> </ul> <p class="h3"><strong>Accessibility</strong></p> <ul> <li class="textlistshort">Wearable lifejackets must be readily accessible.</li> <li class="textlistshort">You must be able to put them on in a reasonable amount of time in an emergency (vessel sinking, on fire, etc.).</li> <li class="textlistshort">They should not be stowed in plastic bags, in locked or closed compartments or have other gear stowed on top of them.</li> <li class="textlistshort">The best lifejacket is the one you will wear.</li> <li class="textlistshort">Though not required, a lifejacket should be worn at all times when the vessel is underway. A wearable lifejacket can save your life, but only if you wear it.</li> <li class="textlistshort">Throwable devices must be immediately available for use.</li> </ul> <p class="h3"><strong>Inflatable Lifejackets</strong></p> <ul> <li class="textlistshort">Inflatable lifejackets may be more comfortable to wear.</li> <li class="textlistshort">The best lifejacket is the one you will wear.</li> <li class="textlistshort">Inflatable lifejackets require the user to pay careful attention to the condition of the device.</li> <li class="textlistshort">Inflatable lifejackets must have a full cylinder and all status indicators on the inflator must be green, or the device is NOT serviceable, and does NOT satisfy the requirement to carry lifejackets.</li> <li class="textlistshort">Coast Guard Approved Inflatable lifejacket's are authorized for use on recreational boats by person at least 16 years of age.</li> </ul> <p class="h3"><strong>Child Lifejacket Requirements</strong></p> <p class="bodyfont">Some states require that children wear lifejackets</p> <ul> <li class="textlistshort">applies to children of specific ages</li> <li class="textlistshort">applies to certain sizes of boats</li> <li class="textlistshort">applies to specific boating operations</li> </ul> <p class="bodyfont">Check with your state boating safety officials.</p> <p class="bodyfont">Child lifejacket approvals are based on the child's weight. Check the "User Weight" on the label, or the approval statement that will read something like "Approved for use on recreational boats and uninspected commercial vessels not carrying passengers for hire, by persons weighing __ lbs". They can be marked "less than 30", "30 to 50", "less than 50", or "50 to 90".</p> <p class="h3"><strong>Lifejacket</strong><strong> requirements for certain boating activities under state laws</strong></p> <p class="bodyfont">The Coast Guard recommends and many states require wearing lifejackets:</p> <ul> <li class="textlistshort">For water skiing and other towed activities (use a lifejacket marked for water skiing).</li> <li class="textlistshort">While operating personal watercraft (PWC) (use a lifejacket marked for water skiing or PWC use).</li> <li class="textlistshort">During white water boating activities.</li> <li class="textlistshort">While sailboarding (under Federal law, sailboards are not "boats").</li> </ul> <p class="bodyfont">Check with your state boating safety officials.</p> <p class="bodyfont">Federal law does not require lifejackets on racing shells, rowing sculls, racing canoes, and racing kayaks; state laws vary. Check with your state boating safety officials.</p> <p class="bodyfont">If you are boating in an area under the jurisdiction of the Army Corps of Engineers, or a federal, state, or local park authority, other rules may apply.</p> <p class="h3"><strong>Lifejacket Flotation</strong></p> <p class="bodyfont">There are three basic kinds of lifejacket flotation in the five types of lifejackets with the following characteristics:</p> <p class="h3"><strong>Inherently Buoyant (primarily Foam)</strong></p> <ul> <li class="textlistshort">Adult, Youth, Child, and Infant sizes</li> <li class="textlistshort">For swimmers &amp; non-swimmers</li> <li class="textlistshort">Wearable &amp; throwable styles</li> <li class="textlistshort">Some designed for water sports</li> </ul> <br /> <br /> <table class="bodyfont" border="1" cellspacing="1" summary="Table shows minimum buoyancy for PFDs" cellpadding="1" width="80%" align="center"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="background-color: #ffffcc;" class="bodyfont" colspan="3" align="center"><strong>Minimum Buoyancy</strong></td> </tr> <tr class="bodybold"> <th id="header1" height="27" valign="top" width="30%">Wearable Size</th> <th id="header2" height="27" valign="top" width="18%">Type</th> <th id="header3" height="27" width="52%">Inherent Buoyancy (Foam)</th> </tr> <tr class="body"> <td valign="top" headers="header1">Adult</td> <td headers="header2">I<br /> II &amp; III<br /> V</td> <td headers="header3">22 lb.<br /> 15.5 lb.<br /> 15.5 to 22 lb.</td> </tr> <tr class="body"> <td valign="top" headers="header1">Youth</td> <td headers="header2">II &amp; III<br /> V</td> <td headers="header3">11 lb.<br /> 11 to 15.5 lb.</td> </tr> <tr class="body"> <td headers="header1">Child and Infant</td> <td headers="header2">II</td> <td headers="header3">7 lb.</td> </tr> <tr class="body"> <td headers="header1"><strong><span class="bodybold">Throwable</span>:</strong><br /> <span class="body">Cushion<br /> Ring Buoy</span></td> <td valign="middle" headers="header2">IV</td> <td class="bodyfont" valign="bottom" headers="header2">20 lb.<br /> 16.5 &amp; 32 lb.</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p class="h3"><strong><br /> Inflatable</strong></p> <ul> <li class="textlistshort">The most compact</li> <li class="textlistshort">Sizes only for adults</li> <li class="textlistshort">Only recommended for swimmers</li> <li class="textlistshort">Wearable styles only</li> <li class="textlistshort">Some with the best in-water performance</li> </ul> <br /> <br /> <table class="bodyfont" border="1" cellspacing="1" summary="Table shows minimum buoyancy for Inflatable pfd's." cellpadding="1" width="80%" align="center"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="background-color: #ffffcc;" class="bodyfont" colspan="3" align="center"><strong>Minimum Buoyancy</strong></td> </tr> <tr class="bodybold"> <th id="header1" height="27" valign="top" width="30%">Wearable Size</th> <th id="header2" height="27" valign="top" width="18%">Type</th> <th id="header3" height="27" width="52%">Inherent Buoyancy</th> </tr> <tr class="body" valign="top"> <td headers="header1">Adult</td> <td headers="header2">I &amp; II<br /> III<br /> V</td> <td headers="header3">34 lb.<br /> 22.5 lb.<br /> 22.5 to 34 lb.</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p class="h3"><strong>Hybrid (Foam &amp; Inflation)</strong></p> <ul> <li class="textlistshort">Reliable</li> <li class="textlistshort">Adult, Youth, and Child sizes</li> <li class="textlistshort">For swimmers &amp; non-swimmers</li> <li class="textlistshort">Wearable styles only</li> <li class="textlistshort">Some designed for water sports</li> </ul> <table class="bodyfont" border="1" cellspacing="1" summary="Table shows minimum buoyancy for Hybrid pfd's." cellpadding="1" width="80%" align="center"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="background-color: #ffffcc;" colspan="4" align="center"><strong>Minimum Buoyancy</strong></td> </tr> <tr class="bodybold"> <th id="header1" height="27" valign="top" width="28%">Wearable Size</th> <th id="header2" height="27" valign="top" width="16%">Type</th> <th id="header3" height="27" valign="top" width="25%">Inherent Buoyancy</th> <th id="header4" width="31%">Inflated Total Buoyancy</th> </tr> <tr class="body"> <td valign="top" headers="header1">Adult</td> <td headers="header2">II &amp; III <br /> V</td> <td headers="header3">10 lb<br /> 7.5 lb.</td> <td headers="header4">22 lb.<br /> 22 lb.</td> </tr> <tr class="body"> <td valign="top" headers="header1">Youth</td> <td headers="header2">II &amp; III <br /> V</td> <td headers="header3">9 lb<br /> 7.5 lb.</td> <td headers="header4">15 lb.<br /> 15 lb.</td> </tr> <tr class="body"> <td headers="header1">Child</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> urn:uuid:7628b335-15ca-491f-8de3-3712fe73f9cd Top Ten Tips List Is your home safe for your family? Follow these 10 tips from the Home Safety Council to protect the people you love! Prevent Falls 1) Install grab bars in the tub and shower. Use non-slip mats. 2) Have bright lights over st...Mon, 08 Mar 2010 10:49:43 -0600<div id="inside_content_controls"> <div id="inside_content_controls">Top Ten Tips List <br /> <br /> Is your home safe for your family? Follow these <strong>10 tips</strong> from the Home Safety Council to protect the people you love! <br /> <br /> <strong>Prevent Falls <br /> </strong><br /> 1) Install grab bars in the tub and shower. Use non-slip mats. <br /> <br /> 2) Have bright lights over stairs and steps and on landings. Keep stairs clear of clutter. <br /> <br /> <strong>Prevent Poisonings <br /> </strong><br /> 3) Keep cleaners, medications and beauty products in a place where children can’t reach them. Use child safety locks. <br /> <br /> 4) For Poison Help call 1-800-222-1222. Call if you need help or want information about poisons. Call 9-1-1 if someone needs to go to the hospital right away. <br /> <br /> <strong>Prevent Fires &amp; Burns <br /> </strong><br /> 5) Have working smoke alarms and hold fire drills. If you build a new home, install fire sprinklers. <br /> <br /> 6) Stay by the stove when cooking, especially when you are frying food. <br /> <br /> 7) Keep your hot water at 120°F degrees to prevent burns. Use back burners and turn pot handles toward the back of your stove. Use a travel mug when you drink something hot. <br /> <br /> <strong>Prevent Choking &amp; Suffocation</strong> <br /> <br /> 8) Things that can fit through a toilet paper tube can cause a young child to choke. Keep coins, latex balloons and hard round foods, such as peanuts and hard candy where children cannot see or touch them. <br /> <br /> 9) Place babies to sleep on their backs, alone in their crib. Don’t put pillows, blankets, comforters or toys in cribs. These things can sometimes keep a baby from breathing. <br /> <br /> 10) When your children are in or near water, watch them very carefully. Stay close enough to reach out and touch them. This includes bathtubs, toilets, pools and spas – even buckets of water.<a href="#" class="printControl" jQuery1268066422859="2"></a></div> </div> urn:uuid:aa42f4e4-ce8d-4aec-9168-e35fcde0051fAbout 10 percent of motor vehicle-related deaths of children don’t happen in traffic, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They happen when children are struck by cars in parking lots or driveways or when they are left unatten...Thu, 04 Mar 2010 10:28:48 -0600<p>About 10 percent of motor vehicle-related deaths of children don’t happen in traffic, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They happen when children are struck by cars in parking lots or driveways or when they are left unattended in vehicles. </p> <p>Three Safe Kids Buckle Up programs—<a href="http://www.safekids.org/our-work/programs/buckle-up/in-and-around-cars.html#Spot_the_Tot">Spot the Tot</a>, <a href="http://www.safekids.org/our-work/programs/buckle-up/in-and-around-cars.html#Never_Leave_Your_Child_Alone">Never Leave Your Child Alone</a> and  <a href="http://www.safekids.org/our-work/programs/buckle-up/in-and-around-cars.html#Preventing_Trunk_Entrapment">Preventing Trunk Entrapment</a>—teach that vehicles are not toys and children of any age should never be alone in or around them. </p> <p><strong><a name="Spot_the_Tot">Spot the Tot</a> </strong></p> <p>Danger can come from any direction, and parents must be aware of the risk of "backover" or "frontover" incidents. Many of these preventable injuries and deaths occur in driveways or parking lots when drivers are unaware children are near vehicles. Tragically, these drivers are often family members or friends of the injured child.</p> <p>Parents, caregivers, drivers and kids can all do their part to make sure children do not share space with vehicles. A five-second walk around the car before you get in could save a child's life.</p> <table style="background-color: #eaf9ff;" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="20" width="95%" align="center" done2="16" done1="16" done0="16"> <tbody done2="16" done1="16" done0="16"> <tr> <td> <p><strong>Backover and Frontover Facts</strong></p> <ul> <li>In the United States from 2001 to 2003, approximately 2,500 children per year ages 1 to 14 were taken to emergency rooms after being struck by a vehicle in a driveway or parking area. </li> </ul> <ul> <li>An average of 229 children per year died after being struck by a vehicle in a driveway or parking area.  </li> </ul> <ul> <li>Close to half of children injured in these incidents were ages 1 to 4. </li> </ul> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>Spot the Tot is a Service Mark of Primary Children’s Medical Center Foundation.</p> <p><strong><a name="Never_Leave_Your_Child_Alone">Never Leave Your Child Alone</a> </strong></p> <p>Leaving a child in a vehicle for a "quick" errand - even for a minute - could be a deadly mistake. Unfortunately, a child alone in a car on a mild day can become overheated quickly. This can lead to tragedy in just a few minutes.</p> <p>Heat is much more dangerous to children than it is to adults. When left in a hot vehicle, a young child’s core body temperature may increase three to five times faster than an adult's. This could cause permanent injury or even death.</p> <p>According to research conducted by San Francisco State University, even with relatively cool temperatures outside (70 degrees), the inside of a car can reach a dangerous temperature in just minutes.</p> <p>The research also revealed that more than a third of injured children were accidentally left behind in a closed, parked car by parents or caregivers, and another third of these children became trapped while playing unattended in a vehicle. Sadly, one in five children who died were intentionally left in the vehicle by an adult.</p> <table style="background-color: #eaf9ff;" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="20" width="95%" align="center" done2="17" done1="17" done0="17"> <tbody done2="17" done1="17" done0="17"> <tr> <td> <p><strong>Heat Stroke Facts</strong></p> <ul> <li>From 1998 to 2009, approximately 443 children died from heat stroke while unattended in a car. </li> </ul> <ul> <li>On days when the temperature exceeds 86°F, the internal temperature can quickly reach upwards of 130°F. </li> </ul> <ul> <li>88% of children who die from heat stroke are ages 3 and younger. </li> </ul> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p><strong><a name="Preventing_Trunk_Entrapment">Preventing Trunk Entrapment</a></strong></p> <p>For many kids, a car trunk looks like a fun place to play or hide. Tragically, many families have discovered that kids can get in the trunk, but they can't always get out. Unlocked cars are open invitations for children to explore. Parents should teach children that vehicles are not toys and they should never play in them. Unattended cars should always be locked and key fobs kept out of reach of children.</p> <table style="background-color: #eaf9ff;" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="20" width="95%" align="center" done2="18" done1="18" done0="18"> <tbody done2="18" done1="18" done0="18"> <tr> <td> <p><strong>Trunk Entrapment Facts</strong></p> <ul> <li>Cars manufactured after 2001 have an emergency trunk release, a glow-in-the-dark handle that will open the trunk from the inside in an emergency. </li> </ul> <ul> <li>Children can access trunks in several ways, even without having the vehicle's keys. </li> </ul> <ul> <li>Most cars have a lever or button located near the driver's seat that pops the trunk open, while other cars also have fold-down seats or a "pass through" that allows children to climb into the trunk from the back seat. </li> </ul> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> urn:uuid:67c631a0-4535-4046-92c3-a1aa1c2717e2 Maintaining a spotless driving record is a plus to your wallet. Not only does it keep your insurance premiums low, but, depending on your carrier, it could also earn you a safe driver discount (some providers refer to it as a good driver discount). ...Wed, 03 Mar 2010 10:03:01 -0600<div id="content1" sizset="90" sizcache="3"> <p>Maintaining a spotless driving record is a plus to your wallet. Not only does it keep your insurance premiums low, but, depending on your carrier, it could also earn you a safe driver discount (some providers refer to it as a good driver discount). Massachusetts has even mandated safe driver discounts into law, under the Safe Driver Insurance Plan.</p> <h2 sizset="90" sizcache="3">Good Driver Incentives</h2> <p>Each carrier adheres to a different incentive policy, based on your driving record. Some carriers, for instance, offer a 2% discount for every year you avoid an at-fault accident, topping out at 20%.</p> <p>Others gauge safe driving discounts on driving records over three- and five-year increments, rewarding modest discounts for three consecutive years of safe driving, and maximum discounts (usually 20%) for five straight years of exemplary driving.</p> </div> <div class="clear" id="content2" sizset="92" sizcache="3"> <h2 sizset="92" sizcache="3">Qualifying for Good Driver Discounts</h2> <p>When determining if you qualify, keep in mind that each carrier has a different definition for safe driving. For some it means avoiding at-fault accidents, and for others it means having a record free of at-fault collisions and traffic violations like speeding, reckless driving, and DUI/DWI.</p> <p>If you own a driving record checkered with violations, all hope for this discount is not lost. Some carriers will grant you safe driver status even if you've had a DUI/DWI conviction. But to qualify you must show proof of a spotless driving record for an extended period of time, usually at or around 10 years. This again, however, varies with each carrier.</p> <p>If you have questions regarding this discount, contact us your local insurance agency "All Access Insurance!"</p> </div> urn:uuid:09e41356-949c-4fd6-a556-8b26456c1a16Workers' compensation (colloquially known as workers' comp in North America or compo in Australia is a form of insurance that provides compensation medical care for employees who are injured in the course of employment, in exchange for mandatory reli...Fri, 26 Feb 2010 10:20:09 -0600<p><b>Workers' compensation</b> (colloquially known as <b>workers' comp</b> in North America or <b>compo</b> in Australia is a form of insurance that provides compensation medical care for employees who are injured in the course of employment, in exchange for mandatory relinquishment of the employee's right to sue his or her employer for the tort of negligence. The tradeoff between assured, limited coverage and lack of recourse outside the worker compensation system is known as "the compensation bargain." While plans differ between jurisdictions, provision can be made for weekly payments in place of wages (functioning in this case as a form of disability insurance), compensation for economic loss (past and future), reimbursement or payment of medical and like expenses (functioning in this case as a form of health insurance), and benefits payable to the dependents of workers killed during employment (functioning in this case as a form of life insurance). General damages for pain and suffering, and punitive damages for employer negligence, are generally not available in worker compensation plans.</p> <p>Employees' compensation laws are usually a feature of highly developed industrial societies, implemented after long and hard-fought struggles by trade unions. Supporters of such programs believe they improve working conditions and provide an economic safety net for employees. Conversely, these programs are often criticised for removing or restricting workers' common-law rights (such as suit in tort for negligence) in order to reduce governments' or insurance companies' financial liability. These laws were first enacted in Europe and Oceania, with the United States following shortly thereafter.</p> urn:uuid:8585e262-7930-4418-ac81-c0d199d9824dSaving more for retirement is always a good idea, especially now. In 2009, the Employee Benefit Research Institute estimated that Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), a cornerstone of retirement savings, sank to a median value of less than $29,000 ...Thu, 25 Feb 2010 10:50:51 -0600Saving more for retirement is always a good idea, especially now. In 2009, the Employee Benefit Research Institute estimated that Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), a cornerstone of retirement savings, sank to a median value of less than $29,000 post-financial meltdown. That leaves many Americans working even harder to recoup their losses and stay on track to make retirement a reality.<br /> <br /> The good news is that many people can increase their saving potential simply by learning more about IRA dos and don'ts. Saving as much as possible, handling rollovers correctly and avoiding costly penalties are the keys to success.<br /> <br /> "There's no question that saving through an IRA is a strategic move, but it's not quite as simple as 'set it and forget it. "Staying aware of what to do and what not to do can really pay off, especially now, when you have the opportunity to invest and potentially save on your tax bill."<br /> <br /> Here are eight of the most common mistakes IRA investors make when it comes to making the most of this retirement-saving tool:<br /> <br /> * Thinking you've missed the deadline: Though 2009 is over, it's not too late to make your IRA contribution count toward this year's tax bill. This year, you have until April 15 to make "2009" IRA contributions and claim eligible deductions on your tax return.<br /> <br /> * Not contributing enough: Contributions to a Traditional IRA are tax deductible, within limits, so you can help secure your future and cut this year's tax bill at the same time. If you're younger than 50 years old, you can contribute up to $5,000 annually. Maxing it out makes for maximum tax savings.<br /> <br /> * Not playing catch-up: Age does have its rewards. If you're 50 or older, you may be eligible to contribute an extra $1,000 (up to $6,000 per year) to an IRA account. This "catch-up" contribution offers a chance to kick your savings into overdrive.<br /> <br /> * Assuming you can't contribute: If you're a stay-at-home spouse, you can still open an IRA as long as contributions from both spouses don't exceed your combined taxable compensation. A "spousal IRA" is especially handy when the working spouse is already covered by an employer retirement plan and can't deduct IRA contributions. What you can deduct will depend on your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI), but every bit counts.<br /> <br /> * Rolling the wrong way: If you've recently switched jobs or lost your job, you can roll the funds from your old employer's retirement plan into an IRA. Just be sure the transfer is made directly from one custodian to the next - a direct rollover. If the payout goes to you first, it will be subject to a mandatory 20 percent withholding tax. Then, you'll have only 60 days to move the funds you received, plus the 20 percent that was withheld, to a new account or you'll have to pay income taxes on the distribution, plus an early withdrawal penalty if you're not at least age 59 1/2.<br /> <br /> * Not considering a Roth: You might be able to save more on taxes in the long run by contributing to a Roth IRA instead of a Traditional IRA depending upon your tax situation. Roth IRA contributions aren't tax deductible, but the Roth can provide tax-free withdrawals come retirement time. And starting this year, the income restrictions to convert a Traditional IRA to a Roth IRA have been eliminated, opening the door to millions more investors. Ask a trusted financial adviser if opening or converting to a Roth IRA would be the right move for you. It's important to keep in mind that conversions from a Traditional IRA to a Roth IRA are subject to ordinary income taxes, so it's recommended that you consult with a tax advisor regarding your particular situation.<br /> <br /> * Withdrawing too early: Your IRA is designed to remain untouched until you reach age 59 1/2. If you make a withdrawal from your Traditional IRA before then, you'll have to pay taxes on the income and investment earnings, and fork over a 10 percent penalty, with some exceptions. While a Roth IRA allows you to withdraw your contributions, not including earnings, at any time without taxes or penalties, you'll thank yourself later for not raiding the piggy bank.<br /> <br /> * Procrastinating: More than any technicality, it's plain old procrastination that hurts investors the most. Whether its uncertainty in the markets, cash flow concerns or the rising costs of college, there will always be excuses to put off this year's IRA contribution. But time-honored investing principles show that consistent contributions - through good times and bad - provide the clearest path to long-term investing success. So make the commitment and take action to help secure your financial future now.<br /> <br /> For complete IRA details, visit www.irs.gov and search for Publication 590. urn:uuid:b6b7c66f-6a7a-411b-afc2-419034cebbb1You should consider home insurance for your new home during construction. If you don't, you may be exposing yourself to a great deal of risk if a fire, theft, or other event damages or destroys your partially-completed home. One way to cover your new...Tue, 23 Feb 2010 10:57:25 -0600You should consider home insurance for your new home during construction. If you don't, you may be exposing yourself to a great deal of risk if a fire, theft, or other event damages or destroys your partially-completed home. <p>One way to cover your new home during construction is by purchasing a standard homeowners insurance policy. This will cover you for any damage to the building as it's being built, and may also provide some coverage for theft of building supplies (although the contractor's insurance should also cover this). It also provides liability coverage, which may come in handy if one of your friends trips during a "tour" of your dream house and decides to sue you. However, the policy will not cover your personal property until the building is secure or "lockable." Once construction reaches this point, you can add on homeowners insurance coverage for your personal property. </p> <p>Another option is to purchase a "dwelling and fire" policy. This type of policy covers damage to the physical structure, but provides no theft coverage. A dwelling and fire policy may be an appropriate choice if you are living in your old house during construction, because the homeowners policy on that house would cover theft of items from the construction site. Dwelling and fire policies also provide liability coverage, just like a standard homeowners policy.</p> <p>Once the building is complete, you should re-evaluate your coverage. If you opted for dwelling and fire coverage, you may need to purchase a full homeowners policy. If you bought standard homeowners insurance, make sure you have purchased the right amount of insurance, especially if you have made alterations to the original building plans (e.g., adding on a room or upgrading building supplies). </p> urn:uuid:2f879364-b3ca-4df9-a433-6773f7eeb358Insurance has become a basic necessity and is something we should all purchase at some stage of our lives. Although it can sometimes be expensive, insurance can be well worthwhile and will be beneficial in the long run. We can insure almost everythin...Sat, 20 Feb 2010 11:07:01 -0600<p>Insurance has become a basic necessity and is something we should all purchase at some stage of our lives. Although it can sometimes be expensive, insurance can be well worthwhile and will be beneficial in the long run.</p> <p>We can insure almost everything we own such as our cars, homes, valuable objects and we can even insure ourselves by obtaining a life insurance policy. Finding the right insurance can be a bit daunting if you don’t know what kind of insurance you will need. There are many questions you should ask to ensure you get the best insurance policy for your lifestyle and budget.</p> <p>Many people have queries on life insurance policies, as they want to make sure their family is looked after when they are gone. Most questions for life insurance are about changing the beneficiary, the policy for disabled children, and if a donation of the policy can go to charity. Some people also ask about the advantages of applying for life insurance with a particular company.</p> <p>Insuring your car is also an important insurance aspect. Before you apply for any insurance you should ask the company questions about the policy. You should ask yourself, what am I using the vehicle for? You can get different policies depending on the car you own and if you are using it for personal or work purposes. You should also ask yourself how much should I spend, and how far will I be driving?</p> <p>Most homeowners will also need to obtain insurance for not only the house, but also the possessions in it. Most people ask the question, do I have to get home insurance? In most cases the answer is yes. Even if you are not forced to by law, it is recommended you get some form of coverage for your home in case of unexpected damages. Another frequently asked question is if the contents outside the home will be covered? Standard polices offer this coverage as well as within the home, but it depends on your policy. You should be sure to ask these questions before you are locked in to the insurance plan.<br /> <br /> Feel free to call us with any insurance related questions, we're here to help!</p> urn:uuid:e21078f4-c34c-4e90-acd2-36e289358745All Access Agency Insurance has assembled products from many of the nation's leading insurers for you to choose from. With our unique technology, we can match the business risk profile with insurance companies that specialize in that industry and wan...Tue, 16 Feb 2010 10:51:42 -0600<p><strong>All Access Agency Insurance</strong> has assembled products from many of the nation's leading insurers for you to choose from. With our unique technology, we can match the business risk profile with insurance companies that specialize in that industry and want that type of business. We'll help you get the right coverage from the right insurer. </p> <h2>Product Summary</h2> <p>Many small business owners buy a type of insurance coverage called a Business Owner's Policy. This is a package policy that covers major property and liability exposures as well as a loss of income if your business cannot operate for a period of time.</p> <p>For example, if your accounting firm's roof is damaged during a thunderstorm, causing your office to flood and your business to close for two months, a BOP would provide coverage in several ways.</p> <p>The policy would cover the cost of repairing the roof, cleaning up water damage and repairing or replacing your furniture, computers and supplies. A BOP also would cover your payroll and taxes for the two months the business was closed. And if one of your clients was in your office during the storm and was injured by falling debris, a BOP would cover your customer's medical bills.</p> <p>Buying a BOP can be a good deal for a business owner. The policies often provide more complete coverage at a lower price than separate policies would for each kind of coverage.</p> <h3>What's Covered?</h3> <p>A BOP covers major property exposures, liability exposures and business interruption.</p> <p>Property coverage generally includes owned or leased buildings; the contents of buildings, such as furniture, supplies, fixtures, machinery, equipment, inventory and building improvements; glass and signs; and some property off of the premises.</p> <p>Property insurance can be bought based on the property's actual cash value (its replacement cost minus depreciation), its current replacement cost or another agreed-upon amount, such as an appraisal.</p> <p>Liability insurance covers your business if it is sued for something the business did or failed to do that caused injury or property damage to someone else. Liability insurance covers damages and settlements stemming from a lawsuit, up to the policy limits. Many liability policies also cover attorneys' fees and other costs associated with defending against a lawsuit.</p> <p>Business interruption coverage can pay for your business' fixed costs, such as rent, payroll and taxes, if your enterprise suffers a property loss that causes it to close or slow down for a period of time while repairs are made.</p> <h3>What Isn't Covered?</h3> <p>Usually a BOP doesn't cover damage due to earthquakes or floods; workers' compensation; group health, life or disability insurance; insurance for company-owned vehicles; and specialized liability risks such as professional liability, director's and officers, employment practices and malpractice.</p> <h3>What Affects the Cost of the Policy?</h3> <p><a href="http://www.insurancenoodle.com/products/saveMoney.asp">How to save money on your policy</a></p> <p>Insurers use rating formulas to determine the policy premium. For a BOP, insurers consider several factors, including the type and location of the business; the building's age, construction material and security features such as alarms and sprinklers; the business' claims history; and the business' financial stability and management team. Rates also vary depending on a policy's coverage limit.</p> urn:uuid:8b9a7acb-4930-498a-9664-ea47dc96b5f4IRA – Individual Retirement Accounts One easy way to become a more tax-efficient investor is to utilize tax-advantaged accounts such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs), which come in two varieties—traditional and Roth. These special accounts a...Mon, 15 Feb 2010 11:43:14 -0600<span class="Glossheadline">IRA – Individual Retirement Accounts</span> <span class="Glossbody"> <p>One easy way to become a more tax-efficient investor is to utilize tax-advantaged accounts such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs), which come in two varieties—<a href="http://news.morningstar.com/article/article.asp?id=185135" class="Glosslink12">traditional</a> and <a href="http://news.morningstar.com/article/article.asp?id=185803" class="Glosslink12">Roth</a>. These special accounts allow you to enjoy either tax-deferred or tax-free growth of your investments.</p> <p> <table align="right"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <script language="javascript">OAS_AD('Middle');</script> <script language="JavaScript1.1"> </script> <noscript></noscript> <script></script> <noscript></noscript></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Tax deferral can lead to significant savings over time. Let's assume two investors each start with $10,000 and earn a 10% annual return for 30 years. One has 100% of her gains tax-deferred, while the other realizes the full amount of his capital gains each year and pays a 20% tax on those gains. Under this scenario, the tax-deferred investor ends up with almost $75,000 more at the end than the investor with the taxable gains. </p> <p>IRAs can be invested in any type of publicly traded security, including <a href="http://www.morningstar.com/Cover/Stocks.html" class="Glosslink12">stocks</a>, <a href="http://wwwdev.morningstar.com/glossary/bonds.html" class="Glosslink12">bonds</a>, and <a href="http://www.morningstar.com/Cover/Funds.html" class="Glosslink12">mutual funds</a>. Generally, there's no limit to switching investments or money managers within an institution, although there could be tax penalties involved if you switch between different types of IRA accounts. Some institutions tack on fees for switching accounts to another firm. </p> <p><span style="color: rgb(204,51,51); font-weight: bold;">Traditional IRAs</span><br /> When you contribute to a traditional IRA, the IRS allows you to take an income tax deduction up to the amount of the contribution, subject to income limitations. In addition, <a href="http://news.morningstar.com/classroom2/course.asp?docId=145248&amp;CN=COM&amp;page=1" class="Glosslink12">dividends</a> and capital gains earned inside a traditional IRA are not subject to tax until withdrawal. </p> <p>However, there are some important limitations to remember. First, you must be age 70 1/2 or under with earned income to contribute to a traditional IRA. Second, the annual contribution limit is $4,000 from 2005 to 2007. The limit rises to $5,000 in 2008, and thereafter can be adjusted in $500 increments to account for inflation. If you are age 50 or older, you can make additional "catch-up" contributions of $500 in 2005 and $1,000 from 2006 onward. Finally, you must begin mandatory <a href="http://news.morningstar.com/article/article.asp?id=175382" class="Glosslink12">withdrawals</a> when you reach age 70 1/2. Withdrawals made before you turn 59 1/2 are taxed and may be subject to an additional 10% penalty. </p> <p><span style="color: rgb(204,51,51); font-weight: bold;">Roth IRAs</span><br /> As with traditional IRAs, interest income, dividends, and capital gains accumulate tax-free. However, the main feature of Roth IRAs is that they are funded with aftertax dollars (contributions are not tax deductible). The upside of this is that qualified distributions from a Roth IRA are exempt from federal taxation. </p> <p>The Roth IRA has the same annual contribution limits and "catch-up" provisions as a traditional IRA, but you must meet certain income requirements to contribute to a Roth IRA. Generally, single filers with modified adjusted gross income up to $114,000 and joint filers with income up to $166,000 (in 2007) are eligible to make annual contributions to a Roth IRA. Contributions to a Roth IRA can be withdrawn at any time without paying taxes or penalties, but withdrawal of earnings may be subject to income taxation and a 10% early withdrawal penalty if made before you turn 59 1/2.</p> <p>In addition, the distribution must also be made after a five-tax-year period from the time a conversion or contribution is first made into any Roth IRA. So, if you open your first Roth IRA and make your first contribution on April 15, 2005, for the 2004 tax year, your five-year period starts on Jan. 1, 2004. Assuming you meet the other requirements, distributions made in this case after Dec. 31, 2008, from any Roth IRA will receive tax-free treatment. </p> </span> urn:uuid:8c11b1f1-5401-4baa-8911-21ca968a017fFlood Information 101 By now, you probably know that only flood insurance covers flood damage, but you probably don't know all of the details. Here are a few of the more frequent terms: Insurance Agent Flood insurance can only be purchased through a...Thu, 11 Feb 2010 15:03:34 -0600<h2>Flood Information 101</h2> <p>By now, you probably know that only flood insurance covers flood damage, but you probably don't know all of the details. Here are a few of the more frequent terms: </p> <p><strong>Insurance Agent</strong><br /> Flood insurance can only be purchased through an insurance agent; you cannot buy it directly from the federal government. If your local insurance agent is unfamiliar with the NFIP you can: </p> <ul> <li>Find an <a href="http://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/pages/choose_your_policy/agent_locator.jsp" title="Agent Locator">agent serving your area</a>; or </li> <li>Contact the NFIP at (888) 379-9531 to request an agent referral </li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Coverage</strong><br /> As with any other type of insurance, it's important to know what your policy does and doesn't cover. For example, damage caused by a sewer backup is only covered by flood insurance if it's a direct result of flooding. The damage is not covered if the backup is caused by some other problem. For a complete summary of coverage, go to <a href="http://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/pages/choose_your_policy/whats_covered.jsp" title="What's Covered">What's Covered</a>.</p> <p><strong>Deductible</strong><br /> Deductibles apply separately to building and contents with different amounts to choose from. Like other insurance plans, a higher deductible will lower the premium you pay, but will also reduce your claim payment. Your mortgage lender can also set a maximum amount for your deductible.</p> <p><strong>Mandatory Requirements</strong><br /> Homes and businesses with mortgages from federally regulated or insured lenders in high-risk flood areas are required to have flood insurance. While flood insurance is not federally required if you live in a moderate-to-low risk flood area, it is still available and strongly recommended.</p> <p><strong>Rates</strong><br /> The NFIP, a federal program, offers flood insurance, which can be purchased through most leading insurance companies. Rates are set and do not differ from company to company or agent to agent. These rates depend on several factors including the date and type of construction of your home, along with your area's level of risk. All premiums include a Federal Policy Fee and ICC Premium.</p> <p><strong>30-Day Waiting Period</strong><br /> There is typically a 30-day waiting period—from date of purchase—before a new flood policy goes into effect. Here are the only exceptions: </p> <ul> <li>If your lender requires flood insurance in connection with the making, increasing, extending, or renewing of your loan. </li> <li>If an additional amount of insurance is required as a result of a map revision. </li> <li>If flood insurance is required as a result of a lender determining that a loan that does not have flood insurance coverage should be protected by flood insurance. </li> <li>If an additional amount of insurance is being obtained in connection with the renewal of a policy. </li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Payment</strong><br /> Payment must be made for the full year's premium, unless your agent or company provides that independently. The National Flood Insurance Program accepts check and credit card payments (i.e. American Express, VISA, MasterCard). Coverage will not be effective until full payment is received.</p> <p>More <a href="http://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/pages/residential_coverage/questions_to_ask_your_agent.jsp" title="Questions for Your Agent">Questions for Your Agent</a> &gt;&gt;</p> <p>Learn your risk, and find an agent, by taking Your Risk Profile.</p> urn:uuid:fe2c5c3e-58a4-462f-b8a8-96487d7489bbIn the market for a new car? Read the sales papers and schedule the next four Saturdays to visit dealerships? Want something bolder; something that makes a statement? Want something bigger because your family has expanded and you need the extra space...Tue, 09 Feb 2010 11:53:50 -0600In the market for a new car? Read the sales papers and schedule the next four Saturdays to visit dealerships? Want something bolder; something that makes a statement? Want something bigger because your family has expanded and you need the extra space for child safety seats?<br /> <br /> Whatever your reason for getting ready to pull out the checkbook and sign away a big chunk of your paycheck, there are more things to consider other than statements and space when making your checklist for your new car. For example, you should definitely think about how you plan to obtain cheap auto insurance for your new car.<br /> <br /> It’s best to think about cheap auto insurance for your new car before you actually buy the car – you can begin the process of obtaining cheap auto insurance while you’re standing in the car lot. Many of your car’s capabilities and functions go into determining your auto insurance rates, so if you wait until after the purchase has been made, you’ll have to make changes to what you have, rather than purchase the right components the first time around.<br /> <br /> Consider these three new car essentials – safety, reliability, and damage control. You want a car that’s built to keep you, your passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians safe. Air bags, anti-lock brakes, automatic safety belts – these are all safety elements your auto insurance company will examine.<br /> <br /> Your car also needs to be reliable. The above safety components won’t do much good if the vehicle isn’t built with quality material, i.e., the brakes start going out six months after the purchase.<br /> <br /> Finally, make sure your car has damage control, i.e., it’s not surrounded by a shatter-proof glass bubble, but it’s not vulnerable, either. Maybe a thief tries to break into your car. With the right anti-theft system, he may be able to put a few scratches and dents in the door, but he won’t be able to steal the car.<br /> urn:uuid:385432d6-42bb-41c8-80fa-5eb3d32bdd4c<img src='http://www.friedlander-insurance.com/IMAGES/lifelogo.gif' align='left' />Why buy Life Insurance? Good question! Have you ever considered that your earning power is your most valuable asset? How will you protect it? In considering a life insurance purchase there are two general questions to ask yourself: How much life ...Mon, 08 Feb 2010 13:24:05 -0600<span style="font-size: 13px; font-family: verdana;"><strong>Why buy Life Insurance?</strong> </span> <p><span style="font-size: 13px; font-family: verdana;">Good question! Have you ever considered that your <b>earning power</b><i> </i>is your most valuable asset? How will you protect it? <br /> </span><br /> <span style="font-size: 13px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">In considering a life insurance purchase there are two general questions to ask yourself:</span> </p> <div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 13px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>How much life insurance do I need? <br /> What type of life insurance should I buy?</b> </span></div> <p><span style="font-size: 13px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">H</span><span style="font-size: 13px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">ow much life insurance is enough? This question is best answered by looking at your family and financial needs. While life insurance can never replace you, it can provide much needed funds for a variety of purposes, either business or personal family needs. <br /> <br /> There are many helpful tools to help you to determine the amount of life insurance that is appropriate for your specific needs. We always suggest using a competent life insurance professional when making such an important purchase. However, if you are curious to know how the need is calculated, we suggest visiting the Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education and using their life insurance calculators. Simply click on the logo below:</span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.life-line.org/life/index.html" target="_blank"><img width="210" height="52" style="border: 0px solid;" alt="Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education" src="http://www.friedlander-insurance.com/IMAGES/lifelogo.gif" /></a></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /> <span style="font-size: 13px;">S</span>ome of the uses for which life insurance is purchased are:</span> </p> <ul> <li><span style="font-size: 13px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Estate planning - paying for final expenses</span> </li> <li><span style="font-size: 13px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Pay off the mortgage on your home</span> </li> <li><span style="font-size: 13px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Charitable gifting</span> </li> <li><span style="font-size: 13px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Replacement of your income</span> </li> <li><span style="font-size: 13px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Establish a college fund for your children</span> </li> <li><span style="font-size: 13px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Funding a buy-sell agreement</span> </li> <li><span style="font-size: 13px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Business owner succession planning</span> </li> <li><span style="font-size: 13px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Cover financial emergencies</span> </li> </ul> <p><span style="font-size: 13px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">What type of life insurance should I buy? Basically, all life insurance falls into one of these two categories: Term or Cash Value.  We go into more detail on the types of insurance we offer under "Product Types." </span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">The bottom line is that many times we do not ask ourselves questions like, "who would suffer if I wasn't here?" While we agree that it's not generally an exciting concept to plan for ones own demise, it is well worth it when you consider the peace of mind it buys cannot be purchased at any price. </span></p> <br /> urn:uuid:78f1a756-f81d-4dec-9c4e-aa831e23d4e6Between the recession and damage to the industry's reputation, insurance companies can no longer conduct their businesses as they have in the past. Rebranding, tightening processes and turning to customers and distributors for input are among the way...Fri, 05 Feb 2010 09:10:07 -0600Between the recession and damage to the industry's reputation, insurance companies can no longer conduct their businesses as they have in the past. Rebranding, tightening processes and turning to <strong>customers</strong> and <strong>distributors</strong> for input are among the ways that insurers are going to reinvent themselves to compete in a constantly changing world.<br /> <br /> How has the recession changed the way your company conducts business?