Merry Christmas

Warmest thoughts and best wishes for the Christmas Holiday and a very Happy New Year.

We look forward to bringing you the best in financial services for years to come.

Dry Rope

I have been blessed.

It’s been awhile since my last blog post. Since then terrible and amazing things have happened in my personal life. I say both terrible and amazing, because out of the terrible, God has created amazing. In a perfect world (or at least MY perfect World) I would always be the honorary fixer-upper in a given situation. My tagline would be: “The dude who brings order to chaos”. I would show up during chaotic events fighting Dr. Anarchy with my Anti-Pandemonium Stabilizer ray gun. I mean, my career says it all. I own an insurance agency…although I’m still looking for that Anti-Pandemonium Stabilizer ray gun on Ebay.

Recently, my wife was diagnosed with a very serious illness that kept her in the hospital for almost 2 weeks where she spent half that time in ICU. The helplessness of watching my wife suffer has been agonizing. However, the love our church and friends have shown us has been breathtaking at times. As a matter of occupation, I am often blessed to be a part of the joys and trials of my client’s lives. I love celebrating a new home purchase, a college graduation, or welcoming a newborn into a family. Sadly, life on this side of Heaven also has us face many tragedies as well. And through our most recent family crises, my wife has shown what it means to overcome trials. Trials do not overcome our faith or our position as children of God. James 1:12 states, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” It is amazing to witness another child of God standing firm through the trials and knowing that regardless of the outcome, she will come out on the other side still in God’s hand.

Woodcreek Church Kids Karnival

Don't Wait Until It Breaks

I am proud to now be able to offer you the Home Service Protection Plan from American Home Shield (AHS) - a simple, affordable plan that helps keep major appliance and home system breakdowns from turning into major worries.

You protect your home with homeowner’s insurance against catastrophic disasters. But the emergencies involving the break down of the major appliances and home systems you count on every day are not typically covered by homeowner’s insurance. The Home Service Protection Plan from AHS complements your homeowner’s insurance and helps protect you against potentially significant financial losses. It provides repair or replacement coverage, if necessary, for your home’s systems and major appliances, regardless of age.

In addition, the Home Service Protection Plan from AHS offers these advantages:

•Quality Repairs by local, pre-screened professionals
•Convenient access to request service around the clock in case of breakdown.
•Affordable annual coverage with a low $60 trade service fee for each breakdown.
•Customized coverage and flexible payment plans to meet your individual needs.

Just imagine - with the AHS Home Service Protection Plan, you can take care of virtually all of your covered repair service needs with one single plan. Moreover, this plan is offered by American Home Shield, the leading home warranty provider with over 30 years experience.

AHS HomeShield Warranty Plan

Basic Coverage $356.00 Annually

Heating System         
Ductwork                   
Plumbing                    
Plumbing Stoppages  
Electrical System      
Ceiling Fans
Water Heater
Ranges, Ovens, Cooktops
Dishwashers
Garbage Disposals
Built-in Microwaves

Optional Coverage AHS HomeShield Warranty Plan

Additional Spa (Only Available w/Purchase of Pool or Spa) - $160
Central A/C, Refrigerator, Washer/Dryer, Garage Door Opener - $168
Pool Only - $160
Spa Only - $160
Pool/Inground Spa Shared Equipment - $160
Well Pump - $85

Sign up for the Home Service Protection Plan now and stay one step ahead of the unexpected repair cost. Contact me today for more information on how the Home Service Protection Plan will help protect your home, budget and time.

Note: Coverage Varies Depending on Specific Contract
Please read contract for specific coverage, exclusions and limitations. I can send you a copy of this too.

The Cost of Flooding

Who You Gonna Call?

Seven financial “friends” everyone should have on speed dial

When it comes to getting ahead financially, it can pay to have a trusted circle of advisers to lean on...

...Your aim should be to develop a team that offers service and advice with a human touch. Here are seven financial “friends” to add to your personal, business, and social media networks.

A Personal Banker or Branch Manager

Irvina Mallory, a senior vice president and private banking officer at The Harbor Bank of Maryland in Baltimore, has always stressed the importance of getting to know your banker. “The 1-800 number is a very helpful tool when you are handling run-of-the-mill transactions,” Mallory says. “But you will undoubtedly run into situations where you need to speak with someone. That’s when you need to have a phone number, or e-mail address, of someone who will be responsive to your needs. Because now you are asking for consideration and you don’t want to hear, ‘Well, I don’t know you.’” Mallory says it doesn’t take much to build this relationship. Just go into your bank’s nearest branch and introduce yourself to the branch manager or personal banker. Take a few minutes to tell them about your financial goals. Then, periodically check in with this person to find out about new saving vehicles or loan products. Inform your banker of any unusual financial events in your life or any special needs you may have. If you’re a business owner, invite them to take a tour of your company and share your strategic plans. Your banker could be your advocate within the institution in case there’s ever a dispute with your account, a lost or stolen debit card, or if you’re the victim of fraud. By taking these actions, you might find that your new friend is likely to make you aware of advantageous policies and programs.

A Mortgage Broker

Even with the broad national drop in housing values, your home is likely to be your most precious asset. Because of this, you should regularly look into new options for refinancing your mortgage or loan modification programs that can help you get the most value out of your home. It helps to know a mortgage broker who understands all the loan options that are available. You should be able to contact this person occasionally to discuss interest rate trends, seek help to properly time a refinancing, or learn about lending programs.

A Real Estate Agent

With so much uncertainty in the real estate market these days, it’s important to have an agent in your social circle—someone you trust and who has the expertise to help you achieve your property ownership goals. Take some time to find an agent who knows the market you are interested in and has experience in the specific type of deals you want to make. Even if you’re not in the market for a new home, check in with your agent from time to time. They are often aware of new federal loan programs, local tax incentives, or other deals. Real estate agents are also good resources for learning about home improvement and renovation tax credits. An agent who is willing to go the extra mile for you can also alert you to homes that are about to come on the market before they reach online real estate databases.

A Financial Planner

Everyone should take advantage of the skills and information that a financial planner has to offer, says Jed Michel, a certified financial adviser and the owner of J. Alexander Consulting in Hempstead, New York. “Our finances are much more complex today. Many are asking how to have money for retirement, long-term care for parents, and college tuition for children—all at once,” Michel says. Since your goals are personal, you need to find someone who is trustworthy and connects with you. In addition to sitting down with your financial adviser, you should seek any free financial counseling offered through your employer and your bank. Then you can compare information and use it to help make the best decisions. With the volatile stock market, it’s important to have a professional explain how to invest your retirement funds. More important, a planner can help you determine your risk level and explain the differences among conservative, moderate, and high-risk portfolios. It’s important that your planner have the patience to sit with you until you fully understand the risks you’re taking and what those risks could cost you.

An Insurance Agent

Insurance is a touchy subject that requires a soothing presence to ease the tension. After all, insurance is all about planning for the unforeseeable. There’s no getting around the fact, for instance, that your family needs to be provided for in case of your death. Finding an insurance agent with whom you can talk candidly is vital. “Any agent can generalize what the average person should do, but you need an agent who understands your family history, someone you know will understand how your situation changes if you get a new job or face a sudden illness in your family,” says Roosevelt Elivert, an agent with State Farm Insurance in Durham, North Carolina. At least once a year you should meet with your agent and review all your basic insurance policies such as car, home, and life insurance. You should also ask about coverage for disability, retirement, and long-term care options that can be tailored to your needs. Having an agent who knows you by name is especially helpful when you have to file a claim after a car accident or major disaster such as a house fire. An agent with your interests at heart is likely to work harder to resolve your issue.

An Estate Planning Attorney

People often think of estate planning as a service for the very wealthy, but the laws governing wills and trusts affect us all. Even more, few people understand the difference between having a trust versus a will. A will controls any assets in your individual name when you die, but a trust is used to hold assets during your lifetime. Take this scenario offered by Steve Hartnett, an estate planning attorney in San Diego and associate director of education at the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys: Say you create a last will and testament to leave all your assets to your child. Many people think that’s all that needs to be done. But you have a life insurance policy through your employer that you set up before your child was born and you never updated the beneficiary.

Furthermore, you have several thousand dollars in an online trade account and a money market account for which you also neglected to update the beneficiaries. Despite having a will, your child most likely will not get the funds from those accounts. Those funds could go to the beneficiary you assigned before the child’s birth. That’s why it doesn’t hurt to know a good estate planning attorney, says Hartnett. Since each state has a different set of laws governing inheritance and other issues, your estate shouldn’t be left to chance or do-it-yourself wills. An estate planning attorney can help you set up a trust that offers more flexibility and control over your how your assets are managed after you die, or if you become incapacitated. He or she can also help you navigate the complexities of blended family structures.

A Tax Accountant or CPA

Don’t mess with taxes. “There are a lot of rules and regulations regarding individual taxes. If you don’t have a skilled person to maneuver you through, you can get into a lot of trouble,” warns Tanya Branch, a certified public accountant and the president of Tanya S. Branch, CPA, PA in Durham, North Carolina. A CPA who knows you is in the best position to help you legally set up a side business, for example. He or she can also inform you of the best tax position and legal protections from potential liabilities. “There are so many rules that it’s hard for the average person to keep up,” says Branch. “For example, take the first-time home buyers credit, or the Hope Credit expansion for college tuition, or the Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credit. A lot of people just missed out because they didn’t know.” Branch says software tax programs are good, but only for simple returns. While most programs will ask you a lot of questions in order to help identify your best tax strategy, they don’t help if you don’t understand the question. A CPA who knows your income history can make sure you understand what taxes you’re paying and why.

Just like the other long-lasting friendships in your life, developing a rapport with these “financial friends” won’t happen overnight. It will take time and patience. But, in the long run, these friendships will prove invaluable.

Article written by Vicki Lee Parker. The complete article is found in the September 2010 issue of Black Enterprise

What Kind of Life Insurance Policy Do You Have?

Life insurance is the most important insurance need I discuss with clients on a day to day basis. Many people who ask me to review a life policy they have had are surprised and then subsequently really angry to find out the limitations of that life policy. Why are they so angry? They were sold a bill of goods and as my fellow Southern friends say, they discovered “that dog don’t hunt”.


The most common culprit here is all those accidental life insurance policies being sold and allowed to be misunderstood as traditional life insurance policies. Do you think you have life insurance through your job? What if you purchased life insurance through a creditor like your mortgage company or credit card company?

If you purchase insurance, you will want to make sure you understand how your policy is worded when it comes to a covered death. Accidental Death life insurance covers you only in the case of accidents. Therefore, if you die in a car crash, you would be covered. If you die from cancer, you would not be covered. Typically, you are not covered if you should die in surgery or overdose on medication. The death benefits are very specific. For example, typically accidental death policies will not pay a benefit if an individual dies as the result of a heart attack while driving and crashes their car.

Traditional (or standard) life insurance is considerably broader. It covers every type of death – some even cover suicide. If you want your family to be covered no matter what happens, it's important to avoid relying solely on Accidental Death life policies to provide for your dependents in the event of your death.

What you should know about fire extinguishers

Experts say we should have at least one fire extinguisher in our home. Having one or more is good, but knowing the right type and how and when to use it also is very important.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) classifies fires into five general categories:*

Class A fires involve ordinary combustible materials, such as cloth, wood, rubber, paper and many plastics.

Class B fires include flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline, oil and

oil-based paints.

Class C fires are energized electrical equipment, such as appliances,

wiring, circuit breakers, tools, etc.

Class D fires are combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium,

potassium and sodium.

Class K fires involve vegetable oils, animal oils or fats used in cooking

appliances.

Here are the most common types of extinguishers, their best and, in some cases, worst applications:**

• Water. The water fire extinguisher, sometimes referred to as an APW or Air Pressurized Water, is recommended for use with Class A fires. Most importantly, APW extinguishers are not to be used to extinguish a flammable liquid fire as water may help the fire to spread. They are not recommended for electrical fires because water is a good conductor of electricity and may help to create a condition conducive to electrocution.
• Carbon Dioxide. Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers use pressurized CO2 to suppress fires. CO2 extinguishers usually are identified by their red color and horn that is used to spray the carbon dioxide. CO2 fire extinguishers displace the oxygen that is needed to keep a fire going with the non-flammable carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide is very cold when released so it cools the fire, as well. This type of extinguisher is appropriate for Class B and C fires.
• Dry Chemical. There are two types of dry chemical extinguishers: ABC used for A, B and C class fires; and BC used for Class B and C fires. Dry chemical extinguishers leave a blanket of non-flammable material on the extinguished matter that helps to reduce the likelihood of re-ignition. They also make a terrible mess ... but mess is better than fire!
• Wet Chemical. These newer extinguishers are tested and approved for Class K fires. They contain a potassium agent that is discharged as a fine mist. This helps prevent grease splash and fire reflash while cooling the appliance.

Be prepared
If extinguished quickly, a small fire may be merely a messy nuisance. But, if given the chance to grow, small fires can injure your loved ones and damage your home and your personal belongings. When used properly, fire extinguishers in your home can help extinguish small fires before they can cause significant damage. Please call me for more information and we can review your policy so you can be sure you have the coverage you want — just in case.

*http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/citizens/all_citizens/home_fire_prev/extinguishers.shtm
**http://www.ilpi.com/safety/extinguishers.html

P A S S

Before using your fire extinguisher, be sure to read the instructions. Here is an acronym for quick reference. Print this and place it next to your fire extinguisher:

Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher. The pin releases a locking mechanism and will allow you to discharge the extinguisher.

Aim at the base of the fire, not the flames. This is important — in order to put out the fire, you must extinguish the fuel.

Squeeze the lever slowly. This will release the extinguishing agent in the extinguisher. If the handle is released, the discharge will stop.

Sweep from side to side. Using a sweeping motion, move the fire extinguisher back and forth until the fire is completely out. Operate the extinguisher from a safe distance, several feet away, and then move toward the fire once it starts to diminish. Be sure to read the instructions on your fire extinguisher — different fire extinguishers recommend operating them from different distances. Remember: Aim at the base of the fire, not at the flames.

http://www.homesafetycouncil.org/SafetyGuide/sg_fire_w009.asp

FOOL COVERAGE

Water and Cars Do NOT Mix

This weekend I received one of those heart wrenching calls from a client that I hate to receive. My client had experienced a traumatic accident. She and her sister had gotten trapped in her car in fast rising flood water and barely was able to swim out to safety. Soon afterwards she called me to inform me of the distressing experience she just had and to ask me what her insurance would cover. This is where the story takes another unfortunate turn for her. Just a few weeks ago my client reduced her auto coverage to having the simplest coverage available -liability only. Unfortunately, she no longer had the coverage she needed to help pay for the damages from this incident. As much as I wanted to…I couldn’t help her.

Why am I telling you this story? My agency has a motto “protecting your life is our business”. As much as I hated not being able to help my client, she was equally frustrated and upset at her decision to reduce the amount of protection she had. I’m confident that when we she gets another auto to insure and we revisit her coverage options, our conversation will be a little different.

So what coverage could she have had that would have helped her?

Comprehensive (or Other Than Collision)

• Pays for damage to your car caused by events other than collision, less the deductible you select.
• Includes damage from causes such as fire, vandalism, windstorm, sandstorm, falling objects, animals, water or flood and theft.
• If your car is stolen, coverage pays for transportation expenses.

If you want a free review of the coverages you have to be sure you are adequately protected, please email me at kbrown4@farmersagent.com or call me at 469-358-3851

Thank goodness for insurance

Thank goodness the insurance guy has insurance. Yesterday, I enjoyed an afternoon of playing basketball at our local YMCA with my son...until...I chose to show him how to do an "appropriate" lay-up. Apparently only 99% of my body understood that I was going to jump in the air. My left knee however, decided it wanted to rebel. The 1% minority won. There was a *pop*, followed by yelling, a hard fall, more yelling, 911 was called, a little less yelling, EMT showed up and asked me to bend my leg, and we were back to more yelling.

A big thanks to the EMT guys who made my ride to the ER actually fun. Ambulance folks don't get the recognition they deserve. Most of the ER staff were good folks too. Oh and how about my realtor, JT Oden showing up at the hospital to check on my wife and me. I've got good friends.

Thinking of “Juicing” Your Life Insurance? Read This First

A few weeks ago The Wall Street Journal ran an article called “Juicing Your Life Insurance” about “indexed” universal life insurance policies. A first read of the article might lead a consumer to decide, Wow are these things complicated! I couldn’t agree more. However, the life insurance industry developed these policies to respond to two main critiques that other types of permanent insurance are often tagged with.


With whole life insurance some consumers say, “I like the guarantee, but can’t I earn a bit more of return when the market is really up?” With variable life insurance, consumers sometime say, “I love the upside when the market skyrockets, but I can’t stand the wild market swings.” So, like any good listener, many insurance companies developed this so-called indexed life insurance product, which allows you upside participation and downside protection. The bottom line: you are able to participate in market gains, while ensuring that you don’t lose those gains should the market go south.

It is confusing … you bet. Wise consumers will consider all the options available, get good counsel from their insurance advisor and then make an informed decision. I personally own all five major types of life insurance: term, universal, whole, variable and indexed. The way I see it, the mix is diversification itself. That mix is unique to my personal and business needs, so everyone should make a decision based on their personal circumstances. Research and understanding is the key to long-term success with indexed life products. For many, the product provides a much-needed combination of upside and downside participation. It’s not for everybody, but it might be for you. Contact me to find out more http://www.kbinsuranceonline.com/

by Jack Dewald, CLU, RHU, Chair of the LIFE Foundation Board of Directors June 11th, 2010

Guess Who Can Now Offer Mexico Auto Insurance?

Travel from the US to Mexico with peace of mind, call me today and ask for the Mexico Auto Tourist Policy.

• Bilingual Attention 24/7
• Assistance on the Road
• Medical and Legal Aid

With the same level of valuable customer and claims service you are used to having in the US!

Industry News: Hail Loss Claims Up 61%; Suspicious Claims Up 136%

The number of hail loss claims filed with insurers increased by 61 percent, from 256,000 in 2006 to over 413,000 in 2009. At the same time, the number of claims referred for suspected fraud increased by 136 percent, from 301 in 2006 to 711 in 2009, according to a National Insurance Crime Bureau report that examines both hail loss claims and hail loss questionable claims (QCs) for the period Jan. 1, 2006 through March 31, 2010. Click here to read the full story.

Farmers first to arrive and help Oklahoma City tornado victims

As rescuers begin combing through the wreckage after tornadoes tore across Oklahoma on Monday, Farmers employees, agents and district managers are already meeting with affected customers in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area.

"Oklahoma City and the surrounding areas have been hit hard by these tornadoes and we are making contact with our customers as quickly as we can," says John Lucido, state executive director – Oklahoma.

Farmers Oklahoma City district manager Pepper Williams and members of Oklahoma's Agency Catastrophe Team have been touring damaged neighborhoods and talking to customers in the harder hit areas since sunrise.

"We have unbelievable access to damaged areas as a result of the disaster relations we've created with local authorities and the insurance commissioner," says Williams. "As a result Farmers is the first insurance carrier on the scene. Our Agency Catastrophe Team has been meeting customers to fill the gap between the 24 to 48 hours until the Farmers team of catastrophe adjusters arrives."

Williams and the catastrophe team have been making sure customers and non-Farmers customers are OK and letting them know what general Homeowners policies state can and can't be done to fix a damaged home.

"The customers are so impressed with Farmers being here to help right away," Williams said. "But the greatest reaction we are getting is from those who aren't Farmers customers. Their carriers aren't here yet, and the 800-number customers I've talked with said their phone calls haven't been returned yet."

In addition, Oklahoma's Customer Care Vehicle (CCV) is being deployed to help customers. It's located in the Wal-Mart parking lot at 501 SW 19th Street in Moore, Okla. And one of the Mobile Claims Center (MCC) buses is stationed at 7105 S Anderson Rd., in Oklahoma City. At the CCV and MCC, Farmers customers and non-Farmers customers can use the free internet service, make calls on satellite phones, find information about emergency medical services or simply enjoy a cup of coffee.

Customers can also follow Farmers' response to the tornado and the MCC’s whereabouts on Twitter at twitter.com/FARMERSRESPONSE and twitter.com/FARMERSMCC9.

Farmers has also purchased radio and newspaper advertising to inform customers that they can file a claim by calling HelpPoint Claim Services at (800) HelpPoint — 800-435-7764 — or online at farmers.com. The ads will run in English and Spanish through May 15.

They Do Run Run

Recently, I came across a disturbing trend in auto insurance. After reviewing prospective clients policies that they currently had with other insurance companies, I realized that some people were getting auto insurance believing it was “full coverage” although their insurance did not include one of the most important coverage protections. --Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage. With auto accidents occurring more frequently, health costs skyrocketing, and auto repair costs…well, being auto repair costs…it is important to know how your just-in-case policy is going to work when the just-in-case happens.

Uninsured/Underinsured motorist coverage protects you, members of your household, and your passengers in an accident with a motorist who has no insurance or is underinsured. Uninsured Motorist protection also covers you if you're injured by a hit-and-run driver. The property damage portion of this coverage even extends to your auto in instances where your car is parked and damaged by a hit- and-run-driver. Also, if you or a passenger are injured by someone with insurance limits insufficient to cover your medical expenses (underinsured) then this can kick in to cover the differences. It even applies to you and the members of your household if you or they are injured as a pedestrian(s). Coverage includes payment of medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Why have liability which protects others in case you’re at fault in an accident, yet not protect yourself and your loved ones against someone else being careless or driving irresponsibly without insurance?

Failing This Quiz Is Bad for Your Financial Health

I spend time visiting and reading various financial websites and blogs to see what's up in the world of personal finance. Most of the time I see good advice being offered on these sites and blogs, although from time to time I do run across bits of “wisdom” that make me go "Hmmm"...But on the whole, I think they serve an important service: They get people to think about their insurance and financial lives in a way they might not have done before. The following article is an example of a smart people sharing smart information:

Long-term financial health encompasses a lot more than just making sure you’re saving smartly for retirement. Decisions you make—or fail to make—about how you safeguard your future with proper amounts of financial protection are also important. The type and amount of insurance you have now—from life to health to disability to long-term care, and even auto—impacts the amount money you’ll have for retirement.

Imagine, for example, what a protracted illness would do to your finances over the long term if you didn’t have in place the right kind of health insurance or disability insurance coverage (if that illness left you unable to work). Here-and-now insurance decisions can make a lasting mark on your financial future—for good or bad.

A smart thing for you to do is take the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ online Insurance Intelligence Quiz and test your knowledge. Most who have taken the quiz have gotten a failing grade on it! See how you stack up.

Once you get your score, be sure to follow through and educate yourself on the questions you got wrong. Lifehappens.org has a wide range of information to help you make smart insurance decisions, and a great place to start is with the Insurance 101 videos. It’s easy: Just sit back, relax and let the experts explain it to you.

Insurance Fundamentals
Life Insurance 101
Auto Insurance 101
Homeowners Insurance 101
Health Insurance 101
Disability Insurance 101
Long-term Care Insurance 101

Put yourself ahead of the majority of Americans by making informed insurance decisions. It’s a smart thing to do for your financial future.

April 9th, 2010
by Maggie Leyes, Communications Consultant, LIFE Foundation

Why the growing interest in annuities?

As the first quarter came to a close, Farmers Life Insurance experienced a dramatic increase in sales of traditional annuities. Through March 31, Farmers customers have placed more than $14.3 million in new annuities so far this year, up from $9.5 million in the same period last year.

Annuities provide customers with competitive interest rates in a low-interest-rate economy. Five-year certificates of deposit currently yield an average of less than 2.6%. Even ten-year Treasuries, which carry some investment risk, yield less than 3.9%(1). In this environment, annuities offer attractive current interest rates and guaranteed minimum interest rates, backed by the financial strength and claims paying ability of Farmers Life.

Annuities also offer unique advantages – as the NAIC explains, “Annuities are most often bought for future retirement income. Only an annuity can pay an income that can be guaranteed to last as long as you live.”(2) And the interest credited to annuities in the accumulation phase of the contract accrues tax-deferred, boosting the effective yield. This is especially attractive for higher-income customers who have maximized other tax-advantaged retirement vehicles.(3)

1 Current interest rates obtained March 31, 2010, from Bloomberg.com. 2 Buyer's Guide to Fixed Deferred Annuities, National Association of Insurance Commissioners. 3 This blog is for informational purposes only. You should consult your attorney, accountant or tax adviser for legal or tax advice. Life insurance issued by Farmers New World Life Insurance Company, Mercer Island, Washington 98040. Products and features may not be available in all states and may vary by state.

et tu Brute

“Let he who is without sin, cast the first stone.” John 8:7.

Since, my last blog about texting and driving (see Teen drivers ignore anti-texting laws Jan. 5th 2010) I’ve had many good discussions about the hazards of texting while driving. Almost daily I see someone driving and texting. I see this everywhere; on the freeway, school zones, driving through parking garages, it seems people cannot resist the urge to text while in transit. Well today, the reality of Mobile Texters hit home. My wife was driving us to pick up dinner and on a 3 mile trip I saw four people texting while driving. After almost getting clipped by the fourth person turning in front of us while they were texting. I turned to my beautiful wife to complain about the driver when I saw the worst thing imaginable...She too was texting with one hand and driving with her knees and the other hand. Why…WHY!! Is all hope lost?

Contest 4 St. Patrick’s day

4 days of the contest – contest lasts from Monday 3/15 to 5:00pm Thursday 3/18.

4 referrals to earn $25 - for every four referrals you get a $25 gift certificate. Just contact me via email with your referrals to get credit.

Are Your Social Networks Putting You at Risk of Being Robbed???

Modern technology is wonderful, bringing people together through social networking tools such as Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter. But, these modern ways to connect might be leading dishonest people to your homes.

You probably have a Twitter account or a Facebook page yourself so you’ve gotten constant updates from friends who let you know where they are all the time. This is a potential danger because a simple notice on a social network could let potential intruders know when no one is home.

Now, a new Web site can help you become more aware of the dangers presented by modern social networks. And the Web site’s name helps get the point across: http://www.pleaserobme.com/. The site’s founders aren’t encouraging break-ins of course, but they are attempting to illuminate the potentially dangerous side effects of sharing your location with the world at large.

The site only lists information that’s only easily available online. The goal is to raise awareness for people who might not think that their Facebook update could lead to a burglary of their home. As the site’s founders state, “On one end, we're leaving lights on when we're going on a holiday, and on the other we're telling everybody on the Internet we're not home.”

Farmers Insurance Introduces New Homeowner's Insurance Policy

Farmers Insurance Group of Companies has introduced a new homeowner’s insurance policy called Farmers Next Generation Home Policy, which it claims to provide new features and coverage flexibility, and competitive pricing.

According to Farmers Insurance, the new policy offers discounts for professionals such as physicians, educators and law enforcement personnel. Homes with newer roofs will also qualify for substantial savings. Policy features include replacement cost coverage for their home and personal property along with coverage such as identity fraud.

Jim Swope, vice president and state executive director for North Texas at Farmers Insurance, said: “We’re thrilled to be able to provide Texas consumers with an improved product for their hard-earned dollar. The great service provided by our agents, combined with this new policy, will provide new levels of value to consumers.”

John Henle, executive director for South Texas at Farmers Insurance, said: “Our ‘Farmers Next Generation Home Policy’ will provide our customers the ability to select a policy that they can tailor to fit their specific insurance needs. “No two families are alike, so no two families have the same insurance needs, and this policy gives more options to suit every need. Farmers agents throughout Texas can be contacted to find out more about the Farmers Next Generation Home Policy.”

Insurance Business Review
Published:15-February-2010

By Staff Reporter

Why Renters Insurance is Important

I'm a visual person. So instead of telling you why renters insurance is important, I thought I would show you.

You can see the news story here:

3-Alarm Fire Ruins Apartments

Yes, Lightening Can Strike Twice in the Same Place

This past Thursday was yet another comedically ill-fated day in the life of an insurance man. As I was getting back in my car from purchasing a gift certificate for a well deserving referral partner, I was kindly greeted by the sound of ripping cloth. This sound was closely followed by the cooling breeze of the winter air on a location uncharacteristically exposed to the frigid weather of February. And then the realization sets in...I did it again...I ripped my pants.

- "But I weigh less than I did the last time this occured.

- "But these were my favorite, most comfortable pair of slacks."

- "Is this even logical to have misfortune strike the same person the same way twice within the last 6 months." 

- "Since I had never ripped my pants in the past, am I now destined for a future of having to bring back up pants to every appointment and meeting?"

To hopefully NOT be continued...

Valentines contest from Kristopher Brown Insurance Agency

I

My Fans

Submit a referral and be entered into the “I Love My Fans - Valentine Contest”

3 drawings for a $25, $15, or $10 Visa gift card

Submit a referral for both a home and car insurance quote and you’ll be entered twice!

Contest Period January 22, 2010 – February 12, 2010

Call: 469.358.3851
Email: kris@kbrowninsurance.com

Thank you for choosing Kristopher Brown Agency and good luck!

Official Rules and Regulations

1. Participation: in the contest constitutes full and unconditional agreement and acceptance of the Rules, which are final on all matters relating to the Promotion.
2. Start and End: The contest begins on 12:01a.m Friday January 22, 2010 and ends at 4:00 p.m. (CST) February 12, 2010.
3. How to Enter: No purchase is necessary to enter the contest.
Upon receipt of a free home and/or auto insurance quote and upon acceptance of the Rules, individuals will automatically be entered into the drawing. Entries are limited to the number of home and/or auto insurance quotes received within the contest start and end date. For purposes of these Rules, "receipt" of a quote occurs when a Kristopher Brown Agency representative verbally or electronically provides the individual with a quoted premium for his/her auto and/or home insurance. Kristopher Brown Agency does not assume any responsibility for incorrect or inaccurate capture of entry information; technical malfunctions; human or technical error; lost, delayed or garbled data; or transmissions, omission, interruption, deletion, defect or failures of any telephone or computer lines or networks, computer equipment, software, or any combination thereof. This contest is subject to all Federal, Provincial, and Municipal laws Eligibility: The Promotion is open to legal residents of Texas,. The Promotion is NOT open to employees, representatives or agents of Kristopher Brown Agency, its subsidiaries, affiliates, associates, advertising and promotion agents, and members of their respective families and persons with whom they are domiciled.
4. Prize: Three Prizes will be awarded to the winning referrers consisting of either a $25, $15, or $10 Visa gift card ("Prize"). The Prize must be accepted as awarded, and cannot be exchanged or substituted.
5. Selection of Winner: Three winners will be randomly selected on Friday February 12, 2010 (draw date).
6. Chances of winning: depend on the cumulative number of qualified entries submitted by the draw date. Entrants will be automatically entered into the contest upon receiving a home and/or auto insurance quote until the contest ends. All entries are subject to verification and confirmation that the entrant has accepted the rules.
7. Privacy: Kristopher Brown Agency respects your right to privacy. Unless otherwise indicated, any information provided will only be used to provide no obligation insurance quotes, assess the entries and execute the contest. By providing personally identifiable information, you consent to the collection of this information by Kristopher Brown Agency for the purpose of providing an insurance quote and for administering this contest.
8. General Rules: The Contest is void where prohibited by law and is subject to all applicable federal, provincial and municipal laws and regulations. All incidental costs and expenses not specifically referred to herein, including (without limitation) taxes, are the sole responsibility of winners. Kristopher Brown Agency reserves the right to disqualify any person who it believes has failed to abide by the Contest Rules and conditions. Kristopher Brown Agency is not responsible for theft, defects, and human errors including negligence that may result in the failure to award the Prize. Kristopher Brown Agency reserves the right to substitute a prize of equal or greater value and/or to terminate, modify or withdraw the promotion, in whole or in part at any time, without prior notice for any reason including errors, technical failure, fraud or other causes beyond Kristopher Brown Agency control which affect the administration, security, fairness or proper play or conduct of the promotion.

Insure Your Love

Just Say NO to Forced Place Escrow

Friends don't let their friends get forced place insurance.

I recently received a referral from a banker who called me with a client sitting at her desk. The client was paying a ridicoulous amount of money for her homeowners insurance because the banks mortgage department added their own version of insurance to her mortgage (escrow) account. In about 30 minutes I reduced her insurance over 50% and saved her over $2,000 a year. All while providing her with better coverage.

If you do not provide evidence of proper homeowners insurance coverage, most mortgage companies place ("force") insurance coverage and pass the cost along to you. This is typically VERY expensive compared to you getting coverage on your own. Generally 2-3 times the rate of a normal homeowners insurance.

Forced placed insurance only protects the lender's interest in the property. It does not provide protection for your personal property inside your home against damage, catastrophe, robbery, etc.

Furthermore, if you allow your homeowner's insurance to lapse over 30 days it may become more difficult to obtain a new policy. Some insurers will look at you like a high risk since you let the other policy go. 

Never allow yourself to be in the position where a forced-placed insurance policy is added to your mortgage and drains your pocket book.

Teen drivers ignore anti-texting laws

Studies suggest demographic targeted by legislation isn’t paying attention

Reuters
updated 1:49 a.m. CT, Fri., Dec . 11, 2009

LOS ANGELES - Karen Cordova, a 17-year-old high school student and part-time supermarket cashier, admits she sometimes texts friends while driving home from work late at night, lonely and bored.

The Arizona teenager knows it's illegal in Phoenix and dangerous. She once almost drifted into oncoming traffic while looking at her phone.

But would a nationwide ban stop Cordova and her friends from texting in their cars? No way, she said.

"Nobody is going to listen," Cordova said.

With momentum building in Washington for all 50 U.S. states to outlaw text messaging behind the wheel, there is evidence that the key demographic targeted by such legislation, teen drivers, will not pay much attention.

At least one major study has found that, with mobile devices now central to their lives, young people often ignore laws against using cell phones or texting in the car.

Massive increase in texts
The number of text messages is up tenfold in the past three years and Americans sent an estimated 1 trillion in 2009.

Some police agencies, while strongly in favor of such mandates, say its tough for officers to enforce them.

The California Highway Patrol has handed out nearly 163,000 tickets to drivers talking on hand-held phones since mid-2008. But it has issued only 1,400 texting citations since January in a state of 23 million drivers -- not for lack of trying.

"The handheld cell phone is relatively easy for us to spot, we can see when somebody has their phone up to their ear," CHP spokeswoman Fran Clader said.

"But with the texting it's a little bit more of a challenge to catch them in the act, because we have to see it and if they are holding it down in their lap it's going to be harder for us to see."

Already 19 states and the District of Columbia ban texting by all drivers, while 9 others prohibit it by young drivers.

Texting causes accidents
In July, Democratic Sen. Chuck Schumer, citing a study that found texting drivers were 23 times more likely to be in an accident, introduced a bill requiring states to prohibit the practice or risk losing federal highway funds.

Since then, Senator Jay Rockefeller has offered his own bill that would achieve the ban through grants to states.

In October, during a three-day conference in Washington on distracted driving, President Barack Obama signed an executive order barring federal employees from texting behind the wheel.

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said he would seek to expand that rule to bus drivers and truckers who cross state lines and called the conference "probably the most important meeting in the history of the Department of Transportation."

But a much-cited study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that usage of cell phones for calls and texting in North Carolina actually ticked up slightly after the state banned them for drivers under the age of 18.

A study by the Automobile Club of Southern California found that texting by drivers dropped after the state's law took effect, but it did not break down the data by age.

"What I would say is that texting and cell phone devices have become such a component of life for teens and for young people that it's hard for them to differentiate between doing something normal and doing something wrong," said Steven Bloch, senior research associate for the Automobile Club.

The problem is not unique to the United States. In Britain, a public service announcement on texting while driving drew worldwide attention for its extremely graphic imagery.

The spot shows three texting teen girls in a horrific head-on collision with another car, and lingers on shots of their bloodied faces shattering the windshield as a child whose parents have been killed cries for her dead mother to wake up.

In 2007, Phoenix became one of the first U.S. cities to ban texting while driving, although Arizona still has no statewide law.

Out of a group of four high school students interviewed by Reuters in Phoenix, three admitted texting while driving and a fourth said he had stopped only after his cousin caused a serious traffic accident while sending a message.

Cordova's classmate, 17-year-old Anna Hauer, says she often texts her boyfriend when she drives and doubts she or her friends would stop because of new legislation.
"By the time they pull you over, the chances are you are going to be done with your text anyway so they can't exactly prove that you were texting," she said.

Copyright 2009 Reuters. Click for restrictions.
URL: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34374269/ns/technology_and_science-tech_and_gadgets/

MSN Privacy . Legal
© 2010 MSNBC.com