As Daylight Savings Comes to an End, Put That Extra Hour to Good Use

/in , /by

Soon, we will be setting the clocks back by one hour signaling the end of daylight savings time. Though most will be excited for the extra hour of sleep, falling back provides an opportunity to get a few extra tasks done around the house in preparation for shorter, colder days and nights. Here are a few easy but important tips for using that extra hour of time:

Light Your Walkways

As it becomes dark sooner, it will be important that outdoor lights are in working order. This will not only prevent you from fumbling with your keys but will also reduce your likelihood of tripping and help improve your overall safety and visibility. If your bulbs are burnt out, simply replace them with new ones, and if your walkway is lacking in light, you may consider purchasing simple pathway lights such as these.

Check Your CO₂ and Smoke Detectors

Checking the batteries in your CO₂ and smoke detectors only take a few minutes, yet can be a lifesaver. It’s recommended that the batteries are changed twice a year; the beginning and end of daylight savings make great markers.

Maintain Your Car

Make sure that headlights and windshield wipers are in working order, as fall back means that you may find yourself driving in the dark more often. Though rain is relatively rare in California, it may be slightly rainier in the fall and winter months, so it is worthwhile to make sure your windshield wipers work well.

Stock Up on Common Medications

With cold and flu season fast approaching, it is important that you stock up on medications for common illnesses. Nobody wants to leave the house to buy medicine while they are sick, so it is easier and more convenient to grab some before it becomes a problem and have it on hand for emergencies.

Prevent Negligence; Check Up on Vents and Appliances

Dirty filters, vents, and coils can create fire hazards, yet they only take a few minutes to clean and check. You can use your vacuum wand to clean dust from the coils of your fridge (you can use this guide if you’ve never done it before). You should also inspect heating and AC filters and replace them if needed, and take the opportunity to look at your vacuum and water filters. Finally, we recommend you vacuum your dryer’s filters and vents in order to prevent fires caused by built up deposits of lint.

Here at Conrey Insurance Brokers, we believe that prevention is as important as proper protection. Insurance may not cover claims made as a result of negligence or improper maintenance, so doing your part to maintain a safe environment is important. Maybe we should start a new trend and remind everyone also to do an insurance coverage check-up as part of their fall back routine. We’re always here to help, so call us at 1-877-450-1872 or contact us here, and experience The Conrey Difference for yourself!

Why Leaves Change Color in Fall and Where You Can Go in Southern California To View Them

/in , /by

Many people are under the mistaken impression that they need to travel in order to find the beautiful colors of fall. Here in Southern California, we tend to associate fall with pumpkins, chilly weather, and shorter days but not with “leaf peeping”. The reality is that there are plenty of places to visit locally where you can experience the changing colors of fall. Read on to learn what causes these vibrant colors, and find out where you can go to view this colorful phenomenon in Southern California.

Red, Yellow, and Orange: How Do Leaves Get Their Colors?

Shortened days and colder weather signals to trees that winter is approaching. With less sunlight to photosynthesize, the chlorophyll, which normally give the leaves their green shade and which turn light to food, begin to degrade. As the chlorophyll degrades, the leaves lose their green color. At this time, trees produce anthocyanin, a reddish pigment whose purpose is to act as a sunscreen, protecting leaves as they transfer nutrients from the leaves to the base of the tree. This process prepares the trees to survive the harsh winters. Some scientists speculate that strong red colors signal a tree’s strength, which may deter insects who seek to use the trees’ nutrients to help their offspring survive the winter. If you want to learn more about plants and the science behind them, visit Farmer’s Almanac to learn more!

Fall Colors: How to Find Them in Southern California

In SoCal, locations, where fall colors are on full display, are often scarce. Our warm weather and drought-resistant plants make it difficult to find trees that display beautiful, natural fall colors. Luckily, there are some places where these colors thrive, and they often offer other fall surprises as well! Camping fanatics might enjoy a weekend up at Big Bear, where the fall colors come into full bloom along hiking trails. If you also enjoy fall flavors, particularly apples, then you may consider a trip to Oak Glen. There, you can sample freshly picked apples and hot cider donuts while viewing the beautiful colors. The Grass Lake Valley Reservoir, known for its scenery, may be a particularly scenic spot to view these colors- so bring a camera!

Here at Conrey Insurance Brokers, we want to encourage you to pursue the wonders that make fall so great. No matter where your journeys take you, be sure to appreciate the natural beauty that the season brings.

Call us at 1-877-450-1872 or contact us here, and experience The Conrey Difference for yourself!

Leave the Scares to the Movies: Protect Yourself on Halloween

/in , /by

Halloween is the season for scares, however, most people would rather be scared by decorations, haunted houses, and movies than by liability. When you leave your lights on during Halloween night, trick-or-treaters become invited guests, meaning you may be liable for any injuries sustained while on your property. That doesn’t mean you need to stop welcoming costumed kids for candy; you simply need to take a few steps to childproof your house and limit your risks. Here are a few simple things to do to provide a safe environment on Halloween:

  • Keep Walkways Clear – by clearing walkways of toys, decorations, and other tripping hazards, you create a safer environment for trick-or-treaters.
  • Don’t Let the Dogs Out – no matter how sweet, dogs can easily become overwhelmed by a large number of strangers passing through. Combined with young children that often have poor judgment around animals, dogs are better kept restrained.
  • Water Hazards – pools, spas, and ponds can become drowning hazards, particularly after dusk. Make sure bodies of water are closed off, covered, or visibly marked.
  • Help Guests Make Responsible Choices – if you are serving alcohol at a Halloween party, do not let visibly intoxicated guests drive themselves.
  • Make Sure Your Yard is Well Lit – making sure that your yard is well lit will help ensure that many hazards are highlighted and able to be avoided.

At Conrey Insurance Brokers, we remember the joy that comes from trick-or-treating, candy, and dressing up. We strive to continue these good memories for the next generation; that’s The Conrey Difference. You don’t need a holiday to make sure you’re properly protected. We can review your coverage any time of year. Call us at 1-877-450-1872 or contact us here, and experience the Conrey Difference for yourself.

Preparing for Flu Season: An Up-to-Date Guide

/in , /by

Every year, the flu virus changes and adapts, creating new strains that are resistant to last year’s vaccines. Fortunately, a new flu shot was formulated to help create an immunity to these new strains, dramatically reducing your likelihood of infection. Need more incentive for getting a dreaded shot? Here are a few important reasons to get vaccinated for the coming flu season:

Protect Others

In addition to preventing you from contracting the virus, flu shots can limit the spread of the virus to unprotected groups, such as children, the elderly or immunocompromised individuals (including those suffering from cancer). By getting the flu shot, you’re doing your part to protect those that cannot protect themselves.

It Costs Little to Nothing!

If cost is a concern, there’s no need to worry. Flu shots are very low priced, or even free, to encourage the public to participate. The CDC recommends using the HealthMap Vaccine Finder to find locations near you to get vaccinated.

There Are New Options

If you’re scared of needles, there is now the option to get a vaccine in nasal spray form. Just a quick squirt and you’re able to go on your way. For those who may have been barred from vaccinations due to allergies, there are now formulas that bypass certain allergy-triggering ingredients such as eggs. With these new options, vaccines are more accessible than ever before.

Time is of the Essence

The CDC recommends that you and your loved ones be vaccinated before the end of October. This gives your body time to build an immunity to the virus so that it is protected to the fullest by the time the flu comes around.

Here at Conrey Insurance Brokers, we believe that nothing is more important than the health of you and your loved ones. We want to protect your family the way that we protect our families; that’s The Conrey Difference. For more information about the Flu vaccine and the risks of the virus, feel free to visit the CDC’s Page on The 2018-2019 Flu Season or call your local healthcare provider. If you have questions about your health coverage, we’re always here to help.

Call us at 1-877-450-1872 or contact us here, and experience The Conrey Difference for yourself!

The Conrey Insurance Brokers Team Came together to Help a Charity in Need

/in , /by

On August 14th, Conrey Insurance Brokers client and favorite charity, South County Outreach, had a water leak at their facility. This leak spoiled much of the perishable food supplies in the food pantry. The charity had just wrapped up an amazing Back to School event the day before – passing out backpacks full of supplies, shoes and offering haircuts. Then the following evening, a water pipe burst. Sadly, it was not discovered until volunteers arrived the next morning. Luckily, over 4,000 pounds of food was transported to other Orange County Food Pantries to avoid more lost rations.

Unfortunately the computer lab, which is used by the underemployed and unemployed, suffered much damage as well. Many people in the community rely on these tools provided by South County Outreach to improve their computer skills, send job applications or print resumes. You can learn more about the community coming together in this time of need, or help replenish supplies by visiting the South County Outreach website here.

Upon hearing about this unfortunate situation, the team at Conrey Insurance Brokers rallied together to help the charity restock much-needed food items through a food drive at their Tustin office. A large bin was placed in the office to fill with non-perishable foods. Once filled, the bin weighed over 100 pounds and was overflowing when volunteers came to make the pickup!

At Conrey Insurance Brokers and Risk Managers, we understand the importance of coming together in times of need. We strive to help make the community a better place. That’s the Conrey Difference. Again, to help support South County Outreach, please visit their website here.

Congratulations to Our Players of the Month and Quarter

/in , , /by

“When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too.”

Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist

 

At Conrey Insurance Brokers, it’s all about our people. It’s been widely said that “the people” are the backbone of any organization. To that end, we believe we have the BEST backbone in the industry – so we make it a point to recognize team member excellence on a monthly and quarterly basis.

 

The Conrey Insurance Brokers “Players of the Month” for June, July and August, AND the Player of the 2nd Quarter 2018 are: (Drum roll)

 

Gabriela Villa Gutierrez

Player of the Month – June  

Gabriela was chosen as Player of the Month for her great positive attitude, her ability to learn new skills and immediately put them to use – and for her great demeanor as a professional and all-around team player. Gaby is a great account manager that knows no boundaries of what she can achieve.

 

Linda Worthington

Player of the Quarter – 2nd Quarter 2018

Player of the Month – July

It’s not surprising that Linda is “Double Player”, because each and every day she brings a fresh and “can do” attitude to every responsibility or task assigned – and she does it all with aplomb, expediency and accuracy. I have nothing but praise for Linda and her contributions to our on-going success.

 

Marsha Multz

Player of the Month – August

Marsha is our August Player of the Month because of the significant impact her sales success has brought to the agency – combined with her efforts with Alex to land some great new accounts. Marsha brings decades of experience to the table, along with a renewed commitment to “The Conrey Difference” – which based on her recent performance is proving to be a great combination.

 

Thank you Gabriela, Linda and Marsha for all you have done and achieved – and keep up the great work.

 

“Innovation distinguishes from a leader and a follower.”

Steve Jobs

 

Are you Protecting your Fine Handbag Collection the Same Way you Protect your Art and Jewelry?

/in , /by

National Handbag Day is October 10th. Handbags, like jewelry, are an investment. Whether your collection is one handbag or several handbags, it’s important to take the right steps to protect what you have worked so hard for. Our partner, Nationwide Private Client, has generously provided the following tips and more on protecting your handbag collection.

According to FinancesOnline.com, owning the rarest, best-designed and most durable bags is a worthwhile investment, with resale prices astronomically rising after several years.¹ A rare Hermès Birkin bag recently sold for $383,522 at an auction at Christie’s in Hong Kong.² A mini Courcheval yellow Hermès Kelly bag previously owned by Elizabeth Taylor sold for $47,196.²

The Kelly bag, which was renamed after Grace Kelly fell in love with the sac à dépêches, takes at least 18 hours to create by hand and usually starts around $10,000 depending on the type of leather.³ Most Birkin bags, which take up to 48 hours to produce, sell for $8,000-$12,000 depending on the size and material used.³

Whether or not your personal collection includes an iconic Hermès bag, we understand your handbag collection is important to you. Nationwide Private Client Risk Solutions recommends the following simple steps to help protect your fine handbag collection:

Take inventory of your handbags

Home inventories are invaluable to have when it comes to a loss, especially a total loss. Start today by including your handbag collection in your home inventory:

  • Do a video walkthrough of your house showing all the major items in each room and a view of each closet so your valued possessions, including your handbags, can be seen.
  • Take photographs of your handbags showing the brand names.
  • Keep all your handbag collection inventory information in a secure location, such as in a safety deposit box or stored with a secure cloud service provider.
  • Regularly maintain and update your inventory as you purchase new handbags. There are vendors, software and applications to assist with your inventory.
  • Contact your insurance agent to confirm your handbag collection is adequately insured.

Take care of your handbags to protect their value

Follow these simple steps to help safeguard your passion for handbags, one of your most prized collections.

  • Shield your handbag from spills and dirt by treating the material with fabric guard, water and oil repellant and/or leather conditioner. When purchasing, remember to ask what treatment product is recommended for use on the handbag.
  • Avoid placing your handbag in areas where it can get soiled. For example, be careful where you put your bag while at the hair salon. If left on the floor, styling products and chemically treated clippings can land on your handbag and leave marks. When dining out, consider using a purse hook to store your handbag under the table or placing a smaller clutch behind you in your chair at the small of your back to protect from food, beverages and dirty floors.
  • Handbags will last longer if stored the right way: out of sunlight, away from heat sources, in an upright position and ideally within their dust bags or a natural-fiber pillowcase. Never store bags in plastic or vinyl, which can trap moisture inside. Keep handles crossed over each other to avoid scratches. Removable straps should be detached and stored inside the handbag.
  • Maintain the shape of the handbag with a handbag insert or bubble wrap. Don’t use scarves, sweaters or tissue paper, as they can attract moths.
  • Protect the lining from stains and tears by storing cosmetics and liquids in pouches. Opt for pens with caps or keep them in pouches, as well. Handbag liners can also be used to organize and keep the interior clean.
  • Avoid touching the bag with dirty hands or after applying beauty products, lotion or cream.
  • Regularly rotate which handbag you use so they don’t wear out too quickly.
  • Practice routine maintenance. Clean suede with a suede brush. Moisturize leather regularly to keep it looking good and free of cracks. Wipe your handbag with a soft cloth on a weekly basis.
  • For stains, tears and wear beyond your expertise, take it to a handbag repair professional. Most shoe repair shops also work on handbags. They can treat it, clean it and restore its color.

Review your Policy

It is important to check with your insurance company to ensure your bags are properly covered in the event of loss or damages. Most insurance companies cover handbags on your homeowner’s insurance policy under the personal property category.

At Conrey Insurance Brokers and Risk Managers we want to make sure you have the right coverage for the things that are important to you. If you are unsure if your handbags are covered, or would like to get them covered, call us at 1-877-450-1872 or contact us here, and experience the Conrey Difference for yourself.

 

1financesonline.com/top-10-most-expensive-handbags-in-the-world-louie-vuitton-diamonds-crocodile-skin
2nytimes.com/2017/12/14/fashion/christies-handbag-sales-birkin-auction-record.html
3spottedfashion.com/hermes-price-list-reference-guide
4marieclaire.co.uk/fashion/clean-care-leather-handbag-tips-512118

Tap into the Rich History of Oktoberfest

/in , , /by

In the United States, almost 20% of people claim German ancestry. In California alone, the number of residents with German heritage totals 3 million people. Nearly everyone knows Oktoberfest as an event featuring beer, brats, and dancing galore, but very few people know the long history behind it. Here are a few fascinating historical points to share with your friends during the festivities!

Origins

Oktoberfest began in 1810 in Munich (where the main event is still held today) as a continuation of a party surrounding a royal wedding. The celebration was so much fun, the country decided to make it a yearly occasion. After 1819, the celebration was moved forward a few weeks to take advantage of warmer weather and longer days. Originally, beer was not a keystone of the festivities; an agricultural show and horse races were the biggest draws. Once allowed, beer stands began to crop up, which were replaced by beer halls in 1896 due to their popularity. While beer and food remained popular attractions, the last horse race was held in 1960 and the agricultural show is now held only every four years.

Cancelations

There have been 24 occasions during which Oktoberfest was canceled, often due to an outbreak of disease or war. A few of the most notable cancellations were due to being at war with Napoleon, an outbreak of cholera, and both World Wars. The festival also underwent a short-lived name change from 1946-1948 where it was dubbed “Autumn Festival”.

Drinks and Dance

According to VistaWide, Oktoberfest is the world’s largest beer festival with 6 million people consuming 1.5 million gallons of beer during the 16-day festival. The beer served during festivities is a unique brew called Märzen, which contains around 6% alcohol. It is stronger and darker than most beer. The food is hearty, including a variety of potato dishes, soft pretzels, sausage, and other meats. The Munich festival includes a variety of fair rides and games to accompany the music, food, and beer.

Here at Conrey Insurance Brokers, we want to wish you a very festive Octoberfest, no matter how you celebrate. O’zapft is! (“It’s tapped!”) And because we always stress proper protection and risk management, please remember to drink responsibly.

A Brief Look Into the Jewish Holiday of Yom Kippur

/in /by

Yom Kippur is one of the most important Jewish holidays of the year. It is the Day of Atonement, where forgiveness is front and center; not only from God, but from fellow brothers and sisters. The holy day marks the end of the 10 days of repentance, which begins with Rosh Hashanah. Here are some of the main traditions that are a part of the holiday:

Fasting

During Yom Kippur, a fasting period of twenty-five hours is observed. This fast is meant to help develop empathy for those who are truly hungry and it is typical for a charitable donation to be made equivalent to the amount a family would normally have spent on meals that day. In addition to abstaining from food, the Jewish people also forgo intimate relationships and signs of wealth such as jewelry or lavish clothes, in order to humble themselves.

Forgiveness

It is customary in the days and hours leading up to the big day to ask for forgiveness from friends, family, and neighbors so that once Earthly forgiveness is given, followers may ask forgiveness from God. The holiday is meant to be one of cleansing and leaving behind old wrongdoing.

Faith

As a holiday sometimes referred to as the “Sabbath of Sabbaths,” attending religious services is a must. On this holiday few people work, as working on the Sabbath is forbidden. At Yom Kippur services, there are special prayers, songs, and customs. At the end of the service, a ram’s horn is blown to signify the end of the fasting period.

Feast

After a long fast, it is common to have a feast to refresh and rejoice at the cleansing of the body and mind.

For those unfamiliar with the holiday, it is more of a somber holiday than Hanukkah. If you want to share well-wishes, tell them “Blessed Yom Kippur,” or “Have an Easy Fast,” as opposed to “Happy Yom Kippur.”

So, from all of us at Conrey Insurance Brokers & Risk Managers we wish you a Blessed Yom Kippur.

Prepare, Protect and Plan: Three Key Steps to Fire Safety

/in , , , /by

If you live in California, every season is fire season. It is imperative that every homeowner is properly protected before the Santa Ana winds begin to blow. Here are three things that we recommend in order for you to be prepared:

  1. Document Your Belongings in Order to Get Full Replacement Value

It is recommended by most insurers that you document your belongings in order to be able to easily claim the full replacement value. Without these documents, insurers may offer the cheapest comparable replacements. There are several methods that can be used, including keeping a photographic log of items and their receipts (in the case of more expensive items like electronics and jewelry), or a video showing the items in your household. Remember to make sure that any model numbers or identifying features are visible.

  1. Review Your Homeowners Policy – You May Not Be Fully Covered

In order to make sure your homeowner’s insurance covers fire damage, review your existing policy. In some cases, plans limit how much compensation can be given for fire damage; this may mean that your coverage is not enough to replace the full value of your home and belongings. While most homeowner’s insurance provides fire protection, it often only does so to an extent. For instance, in an area that has been widely affected, labor and material costs may rise as people rebuild. Homeowner’s insurance may also neglect to cover the cost of certain aspects of clean up such as ash and debris. For this reason, it is important to consider reviewing your policy to ensure that the coverage you have is adequate for your property, especially as we enter the driest month of the year.

  1. Download Our Guide

In your home, there is only one thing that is truly irreplaceable: Your Family. That’s why we’re offering this helpful guide that provides important safety tips and information on what to do if you are the victim of a fire. Click here to download our free fire safety guide.

We believe in proactively protecting the things that you’ve worked so hard to build; it’s The Conrey Difference. Download our comprehensive fire safety guide and schedule an appointment today to discuss your coverage and manage your risk. We’ll be happy to help.

 

Call us at 1-877-450-1872 or contact us here, and experience the Conrey Difference for yourself.