http://www.metroagency.net/blog/View Metro Agency's Website Blogen-uspostmaster@www.metroagency.netInsurance Website Builder - www.insurancewebsitebuilder.comurn:uuid:14de7955-5097-475d-a0cb-b8482bcc2598urn:uuid:796bdde0-a0cc-4668-bffe-4495a868bf69Here are a few holiday safety tips courtesy of the IA Magazine and the national survey for Trusted Choice... At Home Break down boxes&mdash;especially for expensive electronics&mdash;into small pieces and discard them in non-clear trash bags. ...Fri, 09 Dec 2011 10:50:35 -0600<div><strong><a href="http://www.iamagazine.com/NewsViews/2011/December_08/Trusted-Choice7.aspx"><strong></strong></a>Here are a few holiday safety tips courtesy of the IA Magazine and the national survey for Trusted Choice...<br /> <br /> <br /> At Home</strong></div> <ul sizset="81" sizcache="8"> <li>Break down boxes&mdash;especially for expensive electronics&mdash;into small pieces and discard them in non-clear trash bags. </li> <li>Keep gifts hidden from view at outside windows. </li> <li>Lock all doors and windows even when leaving the home for a short period of time. </li> <li>Leave spare keys with a neighbor rather than hiding them outside, such as under doormats or in fake rocks. Burglars are not fooled by most hiding places. </li> <li>Indoor and outdoor lights on an automatic timer should be used whenever possible. </li> <li>When you&rsquo;re away from your home for an extended period of time, have a neighbor or friend watch your house and pick up newspapers and mail. </li> <li>Beware of strangers at your door. Criminals can pose as couriers delivering gifts or be soliciting donations for fake charitable causes. Ask for identification or information about a charity. </li> <li>Many renters have no insurance to cover their personal belongings in case of fire or theft. Existing homeowners&rsquo; or renters&rsquo; insurance policies should be reviewed to ensure adequate and up-to-date coverage limits of your home or possessions.&nbsp; </li> <li>Valuable gifts such as jewelry, antiques and collectibles may have limited or no coverage under a standard homeowners&rsquo; or renters&rsquo; insurance policy. It is often necessary to purchase an &ldquo;endorsement&rdquo; or separate coverage for these items. </li> <li>Consider insuring your personal property on the same replacement cost basis as your home.</li> </ul> <div><strong>In the Car</strong></div> <ul sizset="91" sizcache="8"> <li>Lock all doors and roll up all windows even when leaving the car for a short period of time. </li> <li>Bring gifts into homes with you overnight rather than leaving them in your car. </li> <li>When shopping, keep gifts in the trunk or hidden from view in the interior of the car. </li> <li>Put all of your packages in the trunk before departing one parking lot and driving to another. Waiting until your next shopping destination allows others to see packages go into the trunk of your car and then you departing into the mall or store. </li> <li>Avoid parking next to vans and large trucks that block your space from general vision of others. </li> <li>Make a mental note or write down exactly where you park your car to avoid wandering around longer than necessary. </li> <li>During the day, park away from buildings to reduce the chance of dings from car doors or shopping carts and the likelihood of vandalism. </li> <li>At night, avoid secluded areas and park directly under lights whenever possible. </li> <li>Look underneath your car before you reach it when returning from shopping; criminals have been known to lie underneath in wait. </li> </ul> <div><strong>While Shopping</strong></div> <ul sizset="100" sizcache="8"> <li>Use a credit card in order to avoid thefts of large amounts of cash that cannot be replaced. </li> <li>Shopping with a single credit card is preferable&mdash;it is easier to cancel one rather than several if your wallet or purse is stolen. </li> <li>Keep purses zipped and in your possession close to your body rather than leaving them in your shopping cart where they are more susceptible to theft. </li> <li>Be sure to keep a reference list of phone and account numbers for all of your credit cards in a safe place at home. </li> <li>Try to carry keys, cash and credit cards separate from each other. </li> <li>For freedom of motion and clear visibility, do not overload yourself with packages when leaving a store and returning to your car. You cannot defend yourself with your arms too full of bundles. </li> <li>Use ATMs in well-populated, well-lighted locations. Do not throw ATM receipts away at the ATM location. </li> <li>Remember there is increased safety in numbers. Avoid walking alone and leave malls and stores well before closing time to assure a more active parking lot. </li> </ul> <div><strong>Other Tips</strong></div> <ul sizset="108" sizcache="8"> <li>The holiday season often includes images of cute puppies under a Christmas tree or a kitten with a sparkly ribbon around its neck. But before you do your holiday shopping at the pet shop, potential pet owners must understand that no matter what they paid for their pooch or any pet, most homeowners insurance policies exclude animals. So if your pet is stolen, it is not likely you will be able to claim it as a loss with your insurance company. </li> <li>Conduct a home inventory after the holidays and make sure than any new items in the home are properly insured.</li> </ul> <br /> <br /> Information from IA Magazine - National Survey. View the complete IA Magazine story here: <a href="http://www.iamagazine.com/NewsViews/2011/December_08/Trusted-Choice7.aspx">IA Magazine</a>urn:uuid:a71440af-e032-4b8b-ae89-a57134ef9b29Did you know that umbrella liability&nbsp;coverage provides broad insurance beyond traditional home, auto and boat policies. In addition to providing an extra layer of protection umbrella&nbsp;policies provide coverage for claims that may be excluded...Fri, 28 Oct 2011 12:14:07 -0500Did you know that umbrella liability&nbsp;coverage provides broad insurance beyond traditional home, auto and boat policies. In addition to providing an extra layer of protection umbrella&nbsp;policies provide coverage for claims that may be excluded by the primary policies. These may include, for example, false arrest, libel, slander and invasion of privacy.&nbsp; The term "umbrella" is used because it covers liability claims from all policies underneath it.&nbsp; For example, if the you carry an auto insurance policy with liability limits of $500,000 and a homeowners insurance policy with a limit of $300,000, then with a million dollar umbrella, the limits become in effect, $1,500,000 on an auto liability claim and $1,300,000 on a homeowners liability claim.&nbsp; Are you under the umbrella?<br /> <br /> <br />urn:uuid:a292f76c-f4cd-4a62-aba5-84020293a4be Beaumont Hospital gives notice it will not participate with Blue Care Network after Jan. 12, 2012 Here is a reprint of a statement released today by Blue Cross: Beaumont Hospital has given notice to Blue Care Network that it would no longer partici...Mon, 17 Oct 2011 14:20:44 -0500<b> <p style="text-align: left;">Beaumont Hospital gives notice it will not participate with Blue Care Network after Jan. 12, 2012<br /> <br /> Here is a reprint of a statement released today by Blue Cross:</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Beaumont Hospital has given notice to Blue Care Network that it would no longer participate in hospital networks serving BCN health plans on or after Jan. 12, 2012, unless the Blues agree to a double-digit percentage increase in payments. This large increase is intolerable. For nearly a year, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network have proactively engaged in talks with Beaumont Hospital about reimbursement. BCBSM and BCN could not accept the double-digit increase as our customers and subscribers struggle with the cost of health care services that drive up premiums.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">The Blues proposed an increase to Beaumont that fairly covers the cost of medical services they provide to Blues members and delivers a fair financial margin (profit) to the hospital. Blue Cross also proposes a value-based incentive arrangement that rewards the hospital when it develops initiatives that provide quality care at a lower cost. </p> <p>Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan <acronym title="Preferred Provider Organization">PPO</acronym>, Traditional and <acronym title="Health Savings Account">HSA</acronym> plans are not affected by Beaumont&rsquo;s actions. <acronym title="Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan">BCBSM</acronym> Medicare Advantage plans also are not affected. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">For answers to some of your questions click this link: <a href="http://www.bcbsm.com/portal/bluesmarketplace/pdf/101711_BeaumontQA.pdf">F.A.Q.</a></p> </b>urn:uuid:c9c32e05-a8a5-4bba-84a2-67ff7c85e198This week the Obama Administration requested that the U.S. Supreme Court review the decision by the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals against the constitutionality of the individual mandate as enacted in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PP...Thu, 29 Sep 2011 16:42:44 -0500This week the Obama Administration requested that the U.S. Supreme Court review the decision by the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals against the constitutionality of the individual mandate as enacted in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) (to read about this case, <a href="http://www.iamagazine.com/NewsViews/2011/August_18/On-the-Hill.aspx">click here</a>). Previously, along with the 11th Circuit Court ruling to strike down the individual mandate, the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals and the 4th Circuit Court ruled to uphold the PPACA. The split decisions at the appellate court level along with the move by the Obama Administration to request U.S. Supreme Court review virtually ensures a final decision on the constitutionality of the PPACA before the November 2012 elections. Stay tuned...urn:uuid:68c0375b-8fd9-406f-b4bd-8833f1596683It makes no difference if you're a Democrat, Republican, Independent, Liberal or Conservative; understanding the federal budget and deficit can be mind-boggling. This came to us via email&nbsp;and&nbsp;helps to bring the issue into terms we can all u...Thu, 11 Aug 2011 09:55:57 -0500It makes no difference if you're a Democrat, Republican, Independent, Liberal or Conservative; understanding the federal budget and deficit can be mind-boggling. This came to us via email&nbsp;and&nbsp;helps to bring the issue into terms we can all understand - very simple actually.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> &bull; U.S. Govt. income Taxes - Revenue: $2,170,000,000,000&nbsp;<br /> &bull; Federal budget - Expenses: $3,820,000,000,000&nbsp;<br /> &bull; New debt: $ 1,650,000,000,000&nbsp;<br /> &bull; National debt: $14,271,000,000,000&nbsp;<br /> &bull; Recent budget cut: $ 38,500,000,000&nbsp;<br /> <br /> Let's remove eight zeros from these numbers and pretend this is the household budget for the fictitious Jones family.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> &bull; Total annual income for the Jones family: $21,700&nbsp;<br /> &bull; Amount of money the Jones family spent: $38,200&nbsp;<br /> &bull; Amount of new debt added to their credit card: $16,500&nbsp;<br /> &bull; Outstanding balance on their credit card: $142,710&nbsp;<br /> &bull; Amount cut from their budget: $385<br /> <br /> Doesn't take a Harvard economist to figure out the Jones family has some serious issues...<br />urn:uuid:34dadc45-b473-4d87-8b61-002fef659da7 Michigan Among Five States Generating Nearly Half of All Questionable Insurance Claims The National Insurance Crime Bureau this ...Mon, 25 Jul 2011 08:58:16 -0500<table id="content_LETTER.BLOCK10" style="margin-bottom: 10px;" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="5" width="100%" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="font-size: 12pt; width: 99%; color: #1f4858; text-align: left;" align="left"> <div style="font-size: 12pt; color: #333300;"> <p style="margin-top: 0px; font-size: 18pt; margin-bottom: 0px;"><b>Michigan Among Five States Generating Nearly Half of All Questionable Insurance Claims</b></p> </div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-size: 10pt; color: #003366; text-align: left;" align="left"> <p style="margin-top: 0px; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0px;">The National Insurance Crime Bureau this week released a three-year nationwide analysis of questionable claims. Questionable claims are analyzed by loss state, loss city, core-based statistical area, policy type, loss type and referral reasons. The report covers the claims referred to NICB by its member insurance companies from Jan. 1, 2008 through Dec. 31, 2010.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0px;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0px;">Questionable claims (QCs) are those claims that NICB member insurance companies refer to NICB for closer review and investigation based upon one or more indicators of possible fraud. In 2008, a total of 74,676 QCs were referred. The number increased to 85,018 in 2009 and to 91,730 in 2010 - a 23 percent increase from 2008.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0px;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0px;">Just five states - California, Florida, Texas, New York and Michigan - generated 49 percent of all QCs during this period. As for cities generating the most QCs, they were New York, Los Angeles, Houston, Tampa and Detroit. Florida is unique in that it has three cities in the top ten for QCs-Tampa, Miami and Orlando. Florida is also the only state where NICB operates two Major Medical Fraud Task Forces.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0px;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0px;">When analyzed by core-based statistical areas, the top five are Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana, Calif.; New York-Northern New Jersey-Long Island, N.Y., N.J., Pa.; Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach, Fla.; Detroit-Warren-Livonia, Mich.; and Chicago-Naperville-Joliet, Ill., Ind., Wis.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0px;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0px;">Personal automobile was the policy type with the most QCs for all three years while faked/exaggerated injury and questionable vehicle theft were the QC referral reasons most cited for all three years.<br /> <br /> <br /> Reprinted from the Michigan Association of Insurance Agents - Executive Update July 2011</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table>urn:uuid:7ccef61a-6f2a-4352-a688-5bc7b10f2e73It's hard to believe but this was originally printed in the American Insurance Journal...it's been said that it's true. Dear Sir, I am writing in response to your request for additional information in Block 3 of the accident report form. I put "poo...Fri, 17 Jun 2011 14:29:50 -0500<p><span style="font-size: 18px;">It's hard to believe but this was originally printed in the American Insurance Journal...it's been said that it's true.<br /> <br /> </span>Dear Sir, </p> <p>I am writing in response to your request for additional information in Block 3 of the accident report form. I put "poor planning" as the cause of my accident. You asked for a fuller explanation and I trust the following details will be sufficient. </p> <p>I am a bricklayer by trade. On the day of the accident, I was working alone on the roof of a new six story building. When I completed my work, I found that I had some bricks left over which, when weighed later were found to be slightly in excess of 500 lbs. Rather than carry the bricks down by hand, I decided to lower them in a barrel by using a pulley, which was attached to the side of the building on the sixth floor. Securing the rope at ground level, I went up to the roof, swung the barrel out and loaded the bricks into it. Then I went down and untied the rope, holding it tightly to ensure a slow descent of the bricks. </p> <p>You will note in Block 11 of the accident report form that I weigh 135 lbs. Due to my surprise at being jerked off the ground so suddenly, I lost my presence of mind and forgot to let go of the rope. Needless to say, I proceeded at a rapid rate up the side of the building. </p> <p>In the vicinity of the third floor, I met the barrel which was now proceeding downward at an equal, impressive speed. This explained the fractured skull, minor abrasions and the broken collar bone, as listed in section 3 of the accident report form. Slowed only slightly, I continued my rapid ascent, not stopping until the fingers of my right hand were two knuckles deep into the pulley. </p> <p>Fortunately by this time I had regained my presence of mind and was able to hold tightly to the rope, in spite of beginning to experience a great deal of pain. </p> <p>At approximately the same time, however, the barrel of bricks hit the ground and the bottom fell out of the barrel. Now devoid of the weight of the bricks, that barrel weighed approximately 50 lbs. I refer you again to my weight. As you can imagine, I began a rapid descent, down the side of the building. </p> <p>In the vicinity of the third floor, I met the barrel coming up. This accounts for the two fractured ankles, broken tooth and several lacerations of my legs and lower body. </p> <p>Here my luck began to change slightly. The encounter with the barrel seemed to slow me enough to lessen my injuries when I fell into the pile of bricks and fortunately only three vertebrae were cracked. </p> <p>I am sorry to report, however, as I lay there on the pile of bricks, in pain, unable to move, I again lost my composure and presence of mind and let go of the rope and I lay there watching the empty barrel begin its journey back down onto me. This explains the two broken legs. </p> <p>I hope this answers your inquiry. </p>urn:uuid:1211fc29-7e01-4b65-b686-95132ff32096<img src='http://www.metroagency.net/img/~www.metroagency.net/flooded_basement.jpg' align='left' /> The recent heavy and persistent rains have caused many sewers, basement floor drains and sump pumps to overflow, especially here in Livonia. Most of our policy holders have some coverage for the cost to evacuate the water and the damage left behi...Thu, 26 May 2011 15:50:31 -0500<img alt="" src="/img/~www.metroagency.net/flooded_basement.jpg" /><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> The recent heavy and persistent rains have caused many sewers, basement floor drains and sump pumps to overflow, especially here in Livonia. Most of our policy holders have some coverage for the cost to evacuate the water and the damage left behind. For those who find themselves without the necessary coverage there is a&nbsp;glimmer of hope: Public Act 170 of 1964 amended by Public Act 222 of 2001. If it can be shown that your municipality knew or should have know of defects in the sewage disposal system and failed to act in a reasonable time frame, you may be entitled to recovery from them. We have the necessary forms for the City of Livonia available. For copies simply contact us at <a href="mailto:info@metroagency.net">info@metroagency.net</a> with your request and we will forward them to you.urn:uuid:3a63ebc9-7f52-461c-8fa5-db04795616c4When I see the amount of advertising some companies do to get your business I&rsquo;m amazed. They claim you can save 15% because they don&rsquo;t use agents. It&rsquo;s almost funny that they don&rsquo;t mention&nbsp;they spend billions of dollars o...Thu, 05 May 2011 15:28:09 -0500<p>When I see the amount of advertising some companies do to get your business I&rsquo;m amazed. They claim you can save 15% because they don&rsquo;t use agents. It&rsquo;s almost funny that they don&rsquo;t mention&nbsp;they spend billions of dollars on advertising using, television, radio, billboards, magazines, newspapers, internet and on and on. I hope you will consider the following before you buy insurance form someone in a smock named Flo.</p> <p>&nbsp;&nbsp;<b>Personal Relationship:<br /> </b>All our policies come with an agent. We strive to understand your insurance needs and offer suggestions and advice that provides the proper protection at affordable prices. We don&rsquo;t pull a box of insurance off the shelf and hope it fits. We tailor your coverage to your individual needs and shop for the best rate from some of the finest companies in Michigan.</p> <p><b>&nbsp; Advocates:<br /> </b>As&nbsp;Independent Insurance Agents we are vastly different than online companies and even the direct companies (State Farm, Allstate, AAA, Farmers, etc) in that we do not work for an insurance company. We are independent local business people aligned with a select few insurance companies. We are not employees of any insurance company, we work for you. With online &amp; direct writers, agents and customer service representatives are employees of the insurance company and not policyholder advocates. In the event of a dispute you might find yourself - on your own.<br /> <br /> &nbsp;<b>Phone Systems:<br /> </b>We&rsquo;ve all experienced the nightmare of automated attendants and the maze of confusing options offered by the mega company&rsquo;s phone systems. A real, live person answers our phone and if we&nbsp;can&rsquo;t answer your question right away we return your call promptly. </p> <p>&nbsp;<b>Online Waivers:<br /> </b>Here is a typical waiver from an online insurance company. Please don&rsquo;t feel like you have to read the whole thing just understand there are no waivers when you buy from us.<br /> <i>&ldquo;Insurance Company shall not be liable for any injury, loss, claim or damage, nor any indirect, special, incidental or consequential damage of any kind, whether based in contract, tort, strict liability or otherwise, which arises out of (a) the use of, or inability to use, this site or content found in this site, or (b) <em>the unauthorized access to or alteration of your transmission or data,</em>&nbsp;even if Insurance Company has been advised of the possibility of such damage, <em>unless resulting from the gross negligence or intentional actions of Insurance Company</em>&rdquo;<br /> </i></p> <p><strong>&nbsp; Bricks &amp; Mortar:<br /> </strong>Most online insurance companies have their operations at&nbsp;some distant national call center.&nbsp;This means the only way to commuicate with them is the telephone or internet.&nbsp;We are conveniently located in Livonia. When the need arisies, face to face local service is priceless,&nbsp;not to mention it's very handy when you need to drop off that last minute payment before your policy expires.<br /> <br /> &nbsp;<b>Bottom Line:<br /> </b>Don&rsquo;t think that online companies are always less expensive or more convenient. Before you let someone make that online purchase, please tell them to call Metro Agency where great advice, local service, a choice of companies and great rates are right in your own backyard.</p>urn:uuid:e8183173-ea3c-46c6-856b-84c2f005b778We've teamed up with Blue Cross&nbsp;to offer&nbsp;their new Young Adult Blue MAX plan, available&nbsp;to&nbsp;Michigan residents&nbsp;ages 19-29. This plan covers preventative medical,&nbsp;dental and vision&nbsp;at 100%...that's right no deductible...Fri, 15 Apr 2011 12:56:10 -0500We've teamed up with Blue Cross&nbsp;to offer&nbsp;their new Young Adult Blue MAX plan, available&nbsp;to&nbsp;Michigan residents&nbsp;ages 19-29. This plan covers preventative medical,&nbsp;dental and vision&nbsp;at 100%...that's right no deductible or co-pays for preventative services.&nbsp;And there's more, office visits covered with a&nbsp;$30 copay and discounted rates for prescription drugs.&nbsp;&nbsp;The best part...it's $93.27 per month and it comes with an agent...us! To find out more please click here: <a href="www.0159203.coverageforone.comtp://">Metro Agency / Blue Cross</a>&nbsp;or give us a call. We've got this and other great plans available for almost everyone.urn:uuid:a4e223c4-fde9-422d-a3ae-5b221b4df4a1New Laws effecting teen drivers take effect March 30 Drivers with level 2 intermediate licenses won&rsquo;t be allowed to have more than one unrelated passenger under age 21 unless accompanied by a parent or guardian or they are driving to and from s...Mon, 28 Mar 2011 09:54:40 -0500<p class="article-summary" style="margin: auto 0in;">New Laws effecting teen drivers take effect March 30</p> <p>Drivers with level 2 intermediate licenses won&rsquo;t be allowed to have more than one unrelated passenger under age 21 unless accompanied by a parent or guardian or they are driving to and from school events.</p> <p>Driving between the hours of 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. will not be allowed unless they are driving to or from work. The previous law allowed them to drive until midnight.</p>urn:uuid:85e35118-419f-448a-9b24-5bca02a91394These are things people actually said in court, word for word: Q: Doctor, how many autopsies have you performed on dead people? A: All my autopsies are performed on dead people. Q: Do you recall the time that you examined the body? A: The autopsy s...Fri, 25 Mar 2011 12:20:04 -0500<p><b><strong>These are things people actually said in court, word for word:</strong><br /> <br /> Q: Doctor, how many autopsies have you performed on dead people?<br /> A: All my autopsies are performed on dead people.<br /> </b><b><br /> Q: Do you recall the time that you examined the body?<br /> A: The autopsy started around 8:30pm<br /> Q: And Mr. D****** was dead at the time?<br /> A: No, he was sitting on the table wondering why I was doing an autopsy.</b></p> <p><b>Q: Doctor, before you performed the autopsy, did you check for a pulse?<br /> A: No.<br /> Q: Did you check for blood pressure?<br /> A: No.<br /> Q: Did you check for breathing? <br /> A: No.<br /> Q: So, then it is possible that the patient was alive when you began the autopsy?<br /> A: No. <br /> Q: How can you be so sure, Doctor?<br /> A: Because his brain was sitting on my desk in a jar.<br /> Q: But could the patient have still been alive nevertheless?<br /> A: Yes, it is possible that he could have been alive and practicing law somewhere.</b> </p> <p><b>Q: Now doctor, isn't it true that when a person dies in his sleep, he doesn't know about it until the next morning?<br /> <br /> Unbelievable, but these are from a book called "<i>Disorder in the Court</i>",<br /> a collection of 'Transquips' collected by Richard Lederer,<br /> and reprinted in N.H. Business Review.<br /> <br /> </b></p>urn:uuid:4341c287-461a-4e2a-b8d1-6b6e6cc0b4f8When purchasing life insurance, most people forget to consider important liabilities that life insurance can be used to protect. By breaking these liabilities into categories, it is easy to see what your life insurance will cover and how much should ...Thu, 10 Mar 2011 09:26:47 -0600When purchasing life insurance, most people forget to consider important liabilities that life insurance can be used to protect. By breaking these liabilities into categories, it is easy to see what your life insurance will cover and how much should be purchased.<br /> <b><br /> Immediate Needs</b>: covers funeral costs and medical expenses. Both of these needs can be expensive, so it is important to be adequately covered for these costs. For some people, especially older retired folks, this might be all that&rsquo;s necessary.<br /> <b>Readjustment Needs</b>: covers an outstanding mortgage balance, other loans or debts, a cash fund for emergencies and income replacement for a survivor. Readjustment needs should be an important factor in determining how much life insurance to purchase.<br /> <b>Legacy needs</b>: includes college funds, charitable gifts and retirement funds. This is especially important if you have children or grandchildren to whom you want to leave a portion of your life insurance. Life insurance can be a great tool to protect the futures of each of your family members. Life insurance is one of the most valuable gifts that you can give your family. <br /> <b>Bottom line</b>: Some life insurance is better than none and more is better than some. It&rsquo;s important to design a plan that will fit within your budget and still provide adequate funds to those you leave behind.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> You never know what tomorrow will bring, so please contact us to discuss this important protectionurn:uuid:55db73f1-1927-492a-b5a3-9003edbdc777The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall&reg; will be coming to Canton, Michigan&nbsp;June 16th - 20th. if you have never seen or visited "The Wall" we encourage you to do so, it is an incredible&nbsp;and stirring tribute to&nbsp;the sacrifices made by ma...Wed, 02 Mar 2011 13:06:03 -0600The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall&reg; will be coming to Canton, Michigan&nbsp;June 16th - 20th. if you have never seen or visited "The Wall" we encourage you to do so, it is an incredible&nbsp;and stirring tribute to&nbsp;the sacrifices made by many brave americans. We are honored and proud to be able to donate the insurance coverage for its Michigan appearance. For more information please visit their website: <a href="http://www.travelingwall.us/">Traveling Wall</a>urn:uuid:44b069fa-7a1b-449a-93e7-01cf79ffe493In cooperation with Auto Owners Insurance Company through Main Media Marketing we will have a new TV add appearing in the Detroit area very soon...check it out: TV AdvertisementTue, 22 Feb 2011 14:01:06 -0600In cooperation with Auto Owners Insurance Company through Main Media Marketing we will have a new TV add appearing in the Detroit area very soon...check it out: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RiIULGRBWgs">TV Advertisement</a>urn:uuid:90af487a-17cc-42c8-827a-686200d6b6adIt's been reported that a Northbrook, Illonois based insurance company recently published a study that showed accident rates by astrological signs. It caused some embarrassment&nbsp;when&nbsp;a few&nbsp;people took them seriously. They later clarifie...Tue, 15 Feb 2011 13:35:53 -0600It's been reported that a Northbrook, Illonois based insurance company recently published a study that showed accident rates by astrological signs. It caused some embarrassment&nbsp;when&nbsp;a few&nbsp;people took them seriously. They later clarified that they do not use the Zodiac to determine rates (<a href="http://www.propertycasualty360.com/2011/02/03/seeing-stars-allstate-zodiac-accident-study-leads#">PC 360</a>). The study was fun though and shows some interesting information:<br /> <br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sign&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Birthdays&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;Accidents<br /> <table class="telerik-reTable-4" style="border-collapse: collapse;" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0"> <tbody> <tr class="telerik-reTableOddRow-4"> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">Scorpio</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">November 23 - November 28</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableLastCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">26,833</p> </td> </tr> <tr class="telerik-reTableEvenRow-4"> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">Ophiuchus</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">November 29 - December 17</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableLastCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">83,234</p> </td> </tr> <tr class="telerik-reTableOddRow-4"> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">Cancer</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">July 21 - August 9</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableLastCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">101,539</p> </td> </tr> <tr class="telerik-reTableEvenRow-4"> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">Aquarius</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">February 16 - March 11</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableLastCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">106,878</p> </td> </tr> <tr class="telerik-reTableOddRow-4"> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">Libra</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">October 31 - November 22</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableLastCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">110,592</p> </td> </tr> <tr class="telerik-reTableEvenRow-4"> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">Aries</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">April 17 - May 13</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableLastCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">112,402</p> </td> </tr> <tr class="telerik-reTableOddRow-4"> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">Capricorn</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">January 18 - February 15</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableLastCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">128,005</p> </td> </tr> <tr class="telerik-reTableEvenRow-4"> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">Gemini</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">June 20 - July 20</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableLastCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">136,904</p> </td> </tr> <tr class="telerik-reTableOddRow-4"> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">Sagittarius</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">December 18 - January 17</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableLastCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">154,477</p> </td> </tr> <tr class="telerik-reTableEvenRow-4"> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">Pisces</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">March 12 - April 16</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableLastCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">172,030</p> </td> </tr> <tr class="telerik-reTableOddRow-4"> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">Taurus</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">May 14 - June 19</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableLastCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">177,503</p> </td> </tr> <tr class="telerik-reTableEvenRow-4"> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">Leo</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">August 10 - September 15</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableLastCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">179,657</p> </td> </tr> <tr class="telerik-reTableFooterRow-4"> <td class="telerik-reTableFooterFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">Virgo</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableFooterFirstCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableFooterOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">September 16 - October 30</p> </td> <td class="telerik-reTableFooterOddCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom">&nbsp;</td> <td class="telerik-reTableFooterLastCol-4" style="padding-right: 0.75pt; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; padding-top: 0.75pt; background-color: transparent;border: #d4d0c8;" valign="bottom"> <p style="text-align: center;">211,650</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <style id="telerik-reTable-4" type="text/css"> .telerik-reTable-4 { BORDER-RIGHT: 0px solid; BORDER-TOP: 0px solid; BORDER-LEFT: 0px solid; BORDER-BOTTOM: 0px solid; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma; BORDER-COLLAPSE: collapse } .telerik-reTable-4 TR.telerik-reTableHeaderRow-4 { BORDER-TOP-WIDTH: 1pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; BORDER-LEFT-WIDTH: 1pt; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; BACKGROUND: #4f81bd; BORDER-BOTTOM-WIDTH: 3pt; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt; WIDTH: 119.7pt; COLOR: #ffffff; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; PADDING-TOP: 0in; FONT-FAMILY: "Calibri" , "sans-serif"; BORDER-RIGHT-WIDTH: 1pt } .telerik-reTable-4 TD.telerik-reTableHeaderFirstCol-4 { PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; PADDING-TOP: 0in } .telerik-reTable-4 TD.telerik-reTableHeaderLastCol-4 { PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; PADDING-TOP: 0in } .telerik-reTable-4 TD.telerik-reTableHeaderOddCol-4 { PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; 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PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-TOP-COLOR: #4f81bd; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #4f81bd 1pt solid } .telerik-reTable-4 TD.telerik-reTableOddCol-4 { BORDER-TOP-WIDTH: 1pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; BORDER-LEFT-WIDTH: 1pt; BORDER-LEFT-COLOR: #4f81bd; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-TOP-COLOR: #4f81bd; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #4f81bd 1pt solid; BORDER-RIGHT-WIDTH: 1pt; BORDER-RIGHT-COLOR: #4f81bd } .telerik-reTable-4 TD.telerik-reTableEvenCol-4 { BORDER-TOP-WIDTH: 1pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; BORDER-LEFT-WIDTH: 1pt; BORDER-LEFT-COLOR: #4f81bd; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-TOP-COLOR: #4f81bd; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #4f81bd 1pt solid; BORDER-RIGHT-WIDTH: 1pt; BORDER-RIGHT-COLOR: #4f81bd } .telerik-reTable-4 TR.telerik-reTableFooterRow-4 { PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; FONT-SIZE: 10pt; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; VERTICAL-ALIGN: top; COLOR: #355c8c; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff } .telerik-reTable-4 TD.telerik-reTableFooterFirstCol-4 { BORDER-TOP-WIDTH: 1pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: #4f81bd 1pt solid; BORDER-TOP-COLOR: #4f81bd; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #4f81bd 1pt solid; BORDER-RIGHT-WIDTH: 1pt; BORDER-RIGHT-COLOR: #4f81bd } .telerik-reTable-4 TD.telerik-reTableFooterLastCol-4 { BORDER-TOP-WIDTH: 1pt; BORDER-RIGHT: #4f81bd 1pt solid; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; BORDER-LEFT-WIDTH: 1pt; BORDER-LEFT-COLOR: #4f81bd; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-TOP-COLOR: #4f81bd; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #4f81bd 1pt solid } .telerik-reTable-4 TD.telerik-reTableFooterOddCol-4 { BORDER-TOP-WIDTH: 1pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; BORDER-LEFT-WIDTH: 1pt; BORDER-LEFT-COLOR: #4f81bd; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-TOP-COLOR: #4f81bd; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #4f81bd 1pt solid; BORDER-RIGHT-WIDTH: 1pt; BORDER-RIGHT-COLOR: #4f81bd } .telerik-reTable-4 TD.telerik-reTableFooterEvenCol-4 { BORDER-TOP-WIDTH: 1pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; BORDER-LEFT-WIDTH: 1pt; BORDER-LEFT-COLOR: #4f81bd; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BORDER-TOP-COLOR: #4f81bd; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: #4f81bd 1pt solid; BORDER-RIGHT-WIDTH: 1pt; BORDER-RIGHT-COLOR: #4f81bd } </style> <br /> <table style="border-collapse: collapse;" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> </tr> <tr> </tr> <tr> </tr> <tr> </tr> <tr> </tr> <tr> </tr> <tr> </tr> <tr> </tr> <tr> </tr> <tr> </tr> <tr> </tr> </tbody> </table> <br /> So if your agents asks: What's your sign? be careful, it might effect your rates...not really.<br /> <br /> If you're in the mood to do some web surfing check out <a href="http://www.auto-owners.com/news_and_awards.aspx">Auto Owners Awards</a>, one of our company partners.urn:uuid:e7a01dab-02ad-4e96-9ae8-e61ecaf9507aGreat news! The new health care reform act requires insurance companies to include children on their parents plan up to age 26.&nbsp; Problem is you're 27...now what.&nbsp; One option is to go to the government sponsored portal: U.S. Government&nbsp;...Tue, 08 Feb 2011 13:44:09 -0600Great news! The new health care reform act requires insurance companies to include children on their parents plan up to age 26.&nbsp; Problem is you're 27...now what.&nbsp; One option is to go to the government sponsored portal: <a href="http://finder.healthcare.gov/">U.S. Government</a>&nbsp;where you'll find 22 pages of&nbsp;different plans&nbsp;with monthly premium from $60 to $1000.&nbsp;A better idea migh be to contact an insurance professional to help sort through the maze;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.metroagency.net/contact.aspx">professional help please</a>&nbsp;but&nbsp;if you really want to try for yourself check out our dedicated&nbsp;site&nbsp;<a href="http://www.0159203.coverageforone.com">health insurance</a>&nbsp;where it's easy to compare plans and costs&nbsp;and...every plan come with an agent even the ones that cost $60 per month.&nbsp;urn:uuid:7071c33e-1055-4966-bad3-e788562a7a10<img src='http://www.metroagency.net/img/~www.metroagency.net/car_hits_wall.jpg' align='left' />HIT OUR FACEBOOK WALL WITH YOUR ACCIDENT STORY! Most accidents are avoidable. Common causes include speeding, tailgating, talking on the phone, texting while driving, eating, applying makeup and the big one...drunk driving. Even if you're not our ...Fri, 28 Jan 2011 11:32:54 -0600HIT OUR FACEBOOK WALL WITH YOUR ACCIDENT STORY!<br /> <br /> <img width="560" height="294" alt="" style="width: 396px; height: 194px;" src="/img/~www.metroagency.net/car_hits_wall.jpg" /><br /> <br /> Most accidents are avoidable. Common causes include speeding, tailgating, talking on the phone, texting while driving, eating, applying makeup and the big one...drunk driving. Even if you're not our client add the story of your accident to our wall as a comment and who knows, maybe you'll stop someone from making the same mistake. <br /> <br /> Become a fan - Add an accident comment to our wall<br /> <br /> Quick link: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Metro-Agency-Inc/315213915374" title="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Metro-Agency-Inc/315213915374"><em title="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Metro-Agency-Inc/315213915374">FACEBOOK.METRO AGENCY</em></a><br /> <br />urn:uuid:4cc6e9c2-193e-4fe9-9b72-d1ed42190545If decorative glass is part of your front entrance, don't let your alarm company install the control pad where I can see if it's set. That makes it too easy. And by the way;&nbsp; why would you pay all that money for a fancy alarm system and leave yo...Tue, 25 Jan 2011 15:21:55 -0600If decorative glass is part of your front entrance, don't let your alarm company install the control pad where I can see if it's set. That makes it too easy. And by the way;&nbsp; why would you pay all that money for a fancy alarm system and leave your house without setting it? A good security company alarms the window over the sink and the windows on the second floor, which often access the master bedroom - and your jewelry. It's not a bad idea to put motion detectors up there too.&nbsp;Even if you have and use your alarm avoid announcing your vacation on your Facebook page...It's easier than you think to look up your address.&nbsp;<br /> <br />urn:uuid:52cadf28-e62e-4aa0-8ab3-8dde5aeb05a3A loud TV or radio can be a better deterrent than the best alarm system. If you're reluctant to leave your TV on while you're out of town, you can buy a $35 device that works on a timer and simulates the flickering glow of a real television. (Find it...Mon, 17 Jan 2011 13:02:17 -0600A loud TV or radio can be a better deterrent than the best alarm system. If you're reluctant to leave your TV on while you're out of town, you can buy a $35 device that works on a timer and simulates the flickering glow of a real television. (Find it at: <a href="http://www.faketv.com">Fake TV</a>)<br />urn:uuid:4218636e-b6b6-4438-8ad6-833e90a2e934In 2010 there were 12 recorded hurricanes, 5 ranked as category 3 or higher. That makes 2010 the second most active hurricane year in recorded history. The kicker -&nbsp;not a single single hurricane made landfall in the US. In over a century - since...Fri, 07 Jan 2011 13:45:33 -0600In 2010 there were 12 recorded hurricanes, 5 ranked as category 3 or higher. That makes 2010 the second most active hurricane year in recorded history. The kicker -&nbsp;not a single single hurricane made landfall in the US. In over a century - since at least 1900 - there has been no other Atlantic hurricane season, that has seen ten or more hurricanes, in which not one struck the US. On average hurricanes cause 20 deaths per year and account for about $5.1 billion in damages. Hurricane Katrina,&nbsp;a category 3 storm&nbsp;was the deadliest since 1928 claiming the lives of 1833 people and was the most expensive with property damage of $125.0 billion.urn:uuid:760b9a70-4c54-470e-9854-810426e7b083Yes, I really do look for newspapers piled up on the driveway. And I might leave a pizza flyer in your front door to see how long it takes you to remove it.Tue, 28 Dec 2010 11:32:09 -0600Yes, I really do look for newspapers piled up on the driveway. And I might leave a pizza flyer in your front door to see how long it takes you to remove it.urn:uuid:4ce977ae-9e1a-4319-88b3-d0a0076d1798Here is a helpful link to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and their information regarding health care reform: http://www.bcbsm.com/healthreform/reform-means-to-me.shtml?Section=10. Please feel free to contact us if you have specific questions.&nbs...Wed, 15 Dec 2010 15:38:43 -0600Here is a helpful link to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and their information regarding health care reform: <a href="http://www.bcbsm.com/healthreform/reform-means-to-me.shtml?Section=10">http://www.bcbsm.com/healthreform/reform-means-to-me.shtml?Section=10</a>. Please feel free to contact us if you have specific questions.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> Why not let us show you how affordable some of the Blue Cross plans can be, you might be surprised. <a href="http://www.0159203.coverageforone.com">Health Insurance </a>urn:uuid:c1a36c4b-b982-45ec-bc53-70456fb24e4dMichigan state Sen. Alan Cropsey, R-DeWitt, has sponsored&nbsp;a new law that doubles the jail sentence and license suspensions for first time offenders who drive after drinking excessively. The law is intended to keep "super drunk" motorists off the...Tue, 14 Dec 2010 12:45:25 -0600Michigan state Sen. Alan Cropsey, R-DeWitt, has sponsored&nbsp;a new law that doubles the jail sentence and license suspensions for first time offenders who drive after drinking excessively. The law is intended to keep "super drunk" motorists off the state's roadways and aims to reduce the roughly 45,000 drunken driving arrests in Michigan each year. One provision of the law essentially creates a new class of blood alcohol content of 0.17 percent or higher for serious first-time offenders. That's more than twice the minimum of 0.08 percent now required for a drunken driving conviction. APurn:uuid:686597f5-cc4e-4377-8413-e6d979218720This is an oldie but a good reminder, especially on a day like today. If it snows while you're out of town, get a neighbor to create car and foot tracks into the house. Virgin drifts in the driveway are a dead giveaway. So...if you have a neighbor ...Mon, 13 Dec 2010 14:02:54 -0600This is an oldie but a good reminder, especially on a day like today.<br /> <br /> If it snows while you're out of town, get a neighbor to create car and foot tracks into the house. Virgin drifts in the driveway are a dead giveaway.<br /> <br /> So...if you have a neighbor out of town now would be a good time to lend them a hand with a few tire tracks in the snow.urn:uuid:3dfeff5a-c263-42cd-b7a0-ba1362fc54fcReal reported incidents to insurance companies: In an attempt to kill a fly, I drove into a telephone pole I pulled away from the side of the road, glanced at my mother-in-law and headed over the embankment The indirect cause of the accident was a l...Wed, 08 Dec 2010 11:14:39 -0600<p>Real reported incidents to insurance companies:<br /> <br /> In an attempt to kill a fly, I drove into a telephone pole</p> <p>I pulled away from the side of the road, glanced at my mother-in-law and headed over the embankment</p> <p>The indirect cause of the accident was a little guy in a small car with a big mouth</p> <p>The gentleman behind me struck me on the backside. He then went to rest in a bush with just his rear end showing</p> <p>I collided with a stationary truck coming the other way</p> <p>My car got hit by a submarine." (The Navy informed the wife of a submariner that the craft was due in port. She drove to the base to meet her husband and parked at the end of the slip where the sub was to berth. An inexperienced ensign was conning the sub and it rammed the end of the slip, breaking a section away, causing her car to fall into the water. The Navy paid the compensation claim.)</p>urn:uuid:c7ddd798-3393-46b0-a80b-9baf6e8c7ef7Do you really think I won't look in your sock drawer? I always check dresser drawers, the bedside table, and the medicine cabinet. Here's a helpful hint: I almost never go into kids' rooms.Tue, 30 Nov 2010 08:53:44 -0600Do you really think I won't look in your sock drawer? I always check dresser drawers, the bedside table, and the medicine cabinet. Here's a helpful hint: I almost never go into kids' rooms.urn:uuid:14748adf-6764-4805-9c63-dce2a51c6919The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act requires private health plans to cover evidence-based preventive services and immunizations at 100 percent, with no member cost-sharing beginning on or after Sept. 23, 2010. For more information click he...Wed, 17 Nov 2010 14:38:16 -0600The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act requires private health plans to cover evidence-based preventive services and immunizations at 100 percent, with no member cost-sharing beginning on or after Sept. 23, 2010. For more information click here: <a href="http://www.bcbsm.com/healthreform/reform-alerts/ra_08_03_2010c.shtml">Health Care Reform</a>&nbsp;or this link to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services&nbsp;website: <a href="http://www.healthcare.gov/center/regulations/prevention/regs.html">Healthcare.Gov</a>urn:uuid:a9bdfd6e-eb5f-4876-b90b-d34b939a0e2dAuto Owners Insurance Company has won the J.D. Power and Associates award for "Highest in customer satisfaction with the auto insurance claims experience" for the third year in a row. It's great to be able to represent and recommend the best insuranc...Fri, 12 Nov 2010 08:18:05 -0600Auto Owners Insurance Company has won the J.D. Power and Associates award for "Highest in customer satisfaction with the auto insurance claims experience" for the third year in a row. It's great to be able to represent and recommend the best insurance companies in the State of Michigan.urn:uuid:102d876f-ed83-4b1f-bf89-dfe85efa6083It is the VETERAN, not the preacher, who has given us freedom of religion.&nbsp; It is the VETERAN, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press. It is the VETERAN, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech. It is the VETERAN, not t...Thu, 11 Nov 2010 08:53:59 -0600<p style="text-align: left;">It is the VETERAN, not the preacher, who has given us freedom of religion.&nbsp;<br /> It is the VETERAN, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press.<br /> It is the VETERAN, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech.<br /> It is the VETERAN, not the campus organizer, who has given us freedom to assemble.<br /> It is the VETERAN, not the lawyer, who has given us the right to a fair trial.<br /> It is the VETERAN, not the politician, who has given us the right to vote.</p>urn:uuid:4d31f565-9bab-46ba-9c0d-6fa2f298d97fHey, thanks for letting me use the bathroom when I was working in your yard last week. While I was in there, I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier.Thu, 04 Nov 2010 09:28:16 -0500Hey, thanks for letting me use the bathroom when I was working in your yard last week. While I was in there, I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier.urn:uuid:d58c1984-e15f-4b66-a493-08d7224a7916Secrets of a burglar (1) The two things I hate most: loud dogs and nosy neighbors.Wed, 03 Nov 2010 11:52:33 -0500Secrets of a burglar (1) The two things I hate most: loud dogs and nosy neighbors.urn:uuid:a56f8cc2-5017-4ab6-8c9e-bf7408c7f17cHey, thanks for letting me use the bathroom when I was working in your yard last week. While I was in there, I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier.&nbsp;Mon, 25 Oct 2010 11:03:57 -0500Hey, thanks for letting me use the bathroom when I was working in your yard last week. While I was in there, I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier.&nbsp;<br />urn:uuid:460e052a-73c4-4e0f-86a5-89895915d73dBlues issue response to lawsuit filing Here is the media release BCBSM put out today in response to a lawsuit filed by the U.S. Department of Justice: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan defends use of deepest discount contract provisions to secure l...Mon, 18 Oct 2010 15:42:09 -0500<h2 style="margin: auto 0in; line-height: 130%;">Blues issue response to lawsuit filing</h2> <p style="line-height: 150%;">Here is the media release <acronym>BCBSM</acronym> put out today in response to a lawsuit filed by the U.S. Department of Justice:</p> <p style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;"><b>Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan defends use of deepest discount <br /> contract provisions to secure lowest hospital costs <br /> for more than 4 million Michigan consumers</b></p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"><strong>DETROIT</strong><strong>, MI, October 18, 2010</strong> &ndash; Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan today responded to a lawsuit by the U.S. Department of Justice (<acronym>DOJ</acronym>) Antitrust Division that seeks to restrict <acronym>BCBSM</acronym>'s ability to provide the most deeply discounted rates from Michigan hospitals.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">"Negotiated hospital discounts are a tool that Blue Cross uses to protect the affordability of health insurance for millions of Michiganders," said Andrew Hetzel, <acronym>BCBSM</acronym> vice president for corporate communications. "Through this lawsuit, the federal government seeks to deny millions of Michigan residents the lowest cost possible when they visit the hospital."</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">"This lawsuit is without merit, and we will vigorously defend our ability to negotiate the deepest possible discounts for our members and customers with Michigan hospitals," Hetzel said. "Our hospital discounts are a vital part of our statutory mission to provide Michigan residents with statewide access to health care at a reasonable cost. At a time when insurance premiums are increasing because of medical costs, it hurts consumers to remove tools that insurers use to negotiate the lowest possible cost for medical care in the hospital."</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">Because <acronym>BCBSM</acronym> is the only nonprofit health care corporation that is regulated by Michigan Public Act 350, it is the only Michigan insurer that is required to meet the cost, quality, and access goals required by statute. <acronym>BCBSM</acronym>'s efforts to secure the lowest rates in hospital agreements are designed to benefit the people of Michigan consistent with <acronym>BCBSM </acronym>'s statutory obligations. In fact, about 3 million more Michigan residents enjoy health care savings from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan than any other insurer.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">"It does not make good business sense for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan to reimburse a provider at a higher rate than we can otherwise negotiate," said Hetzel. "These kinds of low cost guarantees are widely used in a variety of contracts in a number of industries. In fact, the federal government routinely requires its own vendors to abide by these same low cost requirements."</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">"For more than 70 years, we have committed ourselves to building a healthier Michigan. As the insurer of last resort, we're the only insurer in Michigan that accepts everyone year-round who applies for coverage. We have a unique statutory mission to provide access to health care at a reasonable cost," said Hetzel. "We are committed to fulfill that mission every day."</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>urn:uuid:54d761c9-ed23-4e1b-8214-90fd77dec9e4THE THREE HORSEMEN &nbsp; In the days of old three horsemen were riding through the desert when they heard a voice boom: &ldquo;STOP! Dismount from your horses and gather pebbles and stones&rdquo;. Scared, the horsemen dismounted and did as the voice...Mon, 18 Oct 2010 13:51:46 -0500<p style="text-align: center;">THE THREE HORSEMEN</p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>In the days of old three horsemen were riding through the desert when they heard a voice boom: &ldquo;STOP! Dismount from your horses and gather pebbles and stones&rdquo;. Scared, the horsemen dismounted and did as the voice commanded.&nbsp; Then the voice boomed again. &ldquo;You have acted wisely, you may proceed but keep the stones and pebbles with you and in the morning you will be both happy and sad&rdquo;.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>They quickly mounted their horses and rode off. Later that night, around their camp fire, they discussed what had happened. None of them understood the voice&rsquo;s command, how could they be happy and sad, but they were still too scared to discard the stones and pebbles.</p> <p>In the morning they awoke to find that the pebbles and stones had turned into diamonds, rubies and other precious stones. Then they remember what the voice had said: They were happy; happy that they had taken some. But they were also sad; sad they had not taken more &hellip;&hellip;.&nbsp; </p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>And this is the story of insurance.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&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;&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; Author Unknown</p>urn:uuid:cbc1206e-24a8-43a8-9b18-439063e82991Found this blog on the internet written by a doctor in California, definitely worth reading...interesting perspective: Dr. Wes BlogTue, 12 Oct 2010 08:38:04 -0500Found this blog on the internet written by a doctor in California, definitely worth reading...interesting perspective:<br /> <a href="http://http://drwes.blogspot.com/2009/06/open-letter-to-patients-regarding.html">Dr. Wes Blog</a>urn:uuid:f7031b7d-07a9-47af-a27e-d461aba5750eWinter is just around the corner, which means it&rsquo;s time to start thinking about ways you can protect your home from winter&rsquo;s wrath. In Michigan where freezing weather is common, that means taking steps to prevent ice dams and frozen pipes...Wed, 06 Oct 2010 14:47:50 -0500<p>Winter is just around the corner, which means it&rsquo;s time to start thinking about ways you can protect your home from winter&rsquo;s wrath. In Michigan where freezing weather is common, that means taking steps to prevent ice dams and frozen pipes. Ice dams occur when ice accumulates at the lower edge of a sloped roof, usually at the gutter. Once an ice dam forms, the potential water damage can be serious.&nbsp;Frozen water in pipes can cause water pressure buildup between the ice blockage and the closed faucet at the end of the pipe, which leads to pipes bursting at their weakest point. Pipes in crawl spaces, attics and outside walls are particularly vulnerable. Take these steps now to avoid trouble later: </p> <p>Keep the attic well ventilated. The colder the attic, the less melting and refreezing on the roof.</p> <p>Keep the attic floor well insulated to minimize the amount of heat rising through the attic from within the house. This two-step approach decreases the likelihood that ice dams will form or, at least, reduces their size.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> Fit exposed pipes with insulation sleeves. </p> <p>Seal cracks and holes in outside walls and foundations near water pipes with caulking. </p> <p>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>urn:uuid:024bfdb4-a508-4ac0-afa5-f704fb0032a1Personal umbrella liability policies are not just for the wealthy. America might well be called the Land of Lawsuits. People are suing each other right and left, and juries are awarding multi-million dollar verdicts in some cases. No one, no matter...Wed, 08 Sep 2010 08:46:24 -0500<p>Personal umbrella liability policies are not just for the wealthy. <br /> <br /> America might well be called the Land of Lawsuits. People are suing each other right and left, and juries are awarding multi-million dollar verdicts in some cases. No one, no matter what his or her income level, is immune from these huge judgments.</p> <p>While multi million dollar verdicts are relatively infrequent compared to the total number of claims, there is a real possibility that you could find yourself embroiled in a lawsuit that could wipe out your assets and even your future earnings.</p> <p>Although liability protection under your auto and home insurance policies may be adequate for most claims, it&rsquo;s not sufficient to protect you against the type of monster awards being metered out by many juries today. These gaps in coverage can be lessened or closed by a Personal Umbrella Liability Policy which provides coverage of $1 million to $5 million in excess of your existing liability coverage and they are now more affordable than ever. <br /> <br /> Check out this information from the:&nbsp;<br /> <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/18/business/businessspecial3/18insure.html?_r=2&amp;scp=4&amp;sq=personal+umbrella&amp;st=nyt&amp;oref=slogin">New York Times</a></p>urn:uuid:89f0e300-94ad-4b64-b40c-ad100f36b44d The pedestrian ran for the pavement, but I got him. The guy was all over the road. I had to swerve a number of times before I hit him. I was sure the old fellow would never make it to the other side of the road when I struck him. ...Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:57:54 -0500<ul> <li>The pedestrian ran for the pavement, but I got him. </li> <li>The guy was all over the road. I had to swerve a number of times before I hit him. </li> <li>I was sure the old fellow would never make it to the other side of the road when I struck him. </li> <li>To avoid hitting the bumper of the car in front I struck a pedestrian. </li> <li>The pedestrian had no idea which way to run as I ran over him. </li> <li>The car in front hit the pedestrian but he got up so I hit him again. </li> <li>I saw a slow moving, sad faced old gentleman as he bounced off the roof of my car. </li> <li>A pedestrian hit me and went under my car. </li> <li>I saw her look at me twice. She appeared to be making slow progress when we met on impact. </li> </ul>urn:uuid:5abfef9e-9bfb-4d8e-bf15-fc66bbdfd39dMETRO AGENCY AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE COVERAGE TIP SHEET DON&rsquo;T EVEN THINK OF BUYING A NEW POLICY WITHOUT THIS IMPORTANT INFORMATION! There are more coverages and options than those shown below. The examples are for illustrative purposes only. The...Tue, 24 Aug 2010 11:19:34 -0500<p style="text-align: center; -0: ;">METRO AGENCY AUTOMOBILE<br /> INSURANCE COVERAGE TIP SHEET<br /> <br /> DON&rsquo;T EVEN THINK OF BUYING A NEW POLICY<br /> WITHOUT THIS IMPORTANT INFORMATION!<br /> <b><br /> </b>There are more coverages and options than those shown below. The examples are for illustrative purposes only. They are <i>not </i>specific recommendations for you.&nbsp; Please refer to the actual policy form and endorsements for full coverage descriptions, exclusions, conditions, and limitations.&nbsp; <br /> For more information please <a href="http://www.metroagency.net/contact.aspx">contact us.</a><br /> <br /> AUTO POLICY BASICS </p> <p><b></b></p> <p style="line-height: 130%; -22: ;">BODILY INJURY LIABILITY&nbsp; &bull;&nbsp; Example&hellip; $100,000 / $300,000 (suggested minimum)<b><br /> </b>Protects against damages to persons that you are legally obligated to pay as a result of a covered automobile accident.&nbsp; The first dollar amount shown is the policy limit per person injured; the second is the policy limit per accident.<br /> <br /> PROPERTY DAMAGE LIABILITY&nbsp; &bull;&nbsp; Example&hellip; $100,000 (suggested minimum)<b><br /> </b>Protects against damages to property that you are legally obligated to pay as a result of a covered automobile accident.&nbsp; The dollar amount shown is the policy limit per accident.</p> <p style="line-height: 130%; -22: ;"><b><i>Tip:</i></b> <i>A seven-figure <b>umbrella policy </b>is always worth exploring, as it&nbsp; provides million dollar layers of protection over and above your auto and homeowners liability limits.&nbsp; &ldquo;Umbrella&rdquo; policies start at $1,000,000 and go up from there.</i><br /> <br /> UNINSURED/UNDERINSURED MOTORISTS LIABILITY &bull; Example&hellip; $100,000 / $300,000 (suggested minimum)<b><br /> </b>This coverage protects you against bodily injury [and PD -- if in your state] caused by an uninsured [and/or underinsured] driver who is determined to be liable for the auto accident.&nbsp; The first dollar amount shown is the policy limit per person injured; the second is the policy limit per accident.</p> <p style="line-height: 130%; -22: ;">COMPREHENSIVE AND COLLISION&nbsp; &bull;&nbsp; Example&hellip; $500 deductible<b><br /> </b>These two optional physical damage coverages pay for the repair or replacement of your vehicle in the event of a covered accident, subject to the deductibles selected.</p> <p style="line-height: 130%; -22: ;">POPULAR POLICY EXTRA&nbsp; &bull;&nbsp; Rental reimbursement example&hellip; $20 per day / $900 total (suggested minimum)<b><br /> </b>Rental Reimbursement<b> </b>is also called &ldquo;transportation expense.&rdquo;&nbsp; It pays a specified amount per day for a rented vehicle, subject to a maximum stated dollar amount, when yours is being repaired due to a covered claim.&nbsp; There is no deductible.<br /> <br /> <br /> </p> <p style="text-align: center;">&copy; 2010 Agency Ideas&reg; / Shulman Consulting Group, Inc.&nbsp;&nbsp; All rights reserved.</p>urn:uuid:92358cc6-dbeb-41fe-a757-537db7895459Why you should only deal with longstanding, trusted advisors and do your homework: LANSING &ndash; The Office of Financial and Insurance Regulation (OFIR) has taken action against several multi-million dollar West Michigan investment schemes. The ag...Tue, 17 Aug 2010 08:55:12 -0500Why you should only deal with longstanding, trusted advisors and do your homework:<br /> <br /> LANSING &ndash; The Office of Financial and Insurance Regulation (OFIR) has taken action against several multi-million dollar West Michigan investment schemes. The agency ordered Kalamazoo-based insurance agency American Benefit Concepts (ABC) and its president Jason Juberg and vice president Matt Harper to cease and desist from the sale of unregistered securities products. The agency also determined the company and individuals were not properly registered with the state to sell securities. OFIR also took similar action against David McQueen and his companies, Grand Rapids-based Diversified Global Finance (DGF) and Byron Center-based Diversified Liquid Asset Holdings (DLAH). <br /> An OFIR investigation found that these intertwined companies and individuals severely harmed Michigan consumers through allegedly fraudulent real estate, alternative energy, hedge fund and short term loan investment scams. OFIR has identified at least 400 victims totaling more than $50 million in investment money. <br /> &ldquo;Michigan consumers should take a pass on &lsquo;free lunch&rsquo; investment seminars&mdash;they&rsquo;re a favorite tool of scammers looking for an easy mark,&rdquo; OFIR Commissioner Ken Ross said. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s an important reminder for Michigan investors to call OFIR before you give anyone your hard earned money.&rdquo; <br /> Before entering into an investment, Michigan consumers are encouraged to contact OFIR and the agency can run a check on any investment firm, professional or product. OFIR can be reached at (877) 999-6442 or online at: www.michigan.gov/ofir. <br /> In November, 2008, OFIR took action against Diversified Lending Group, Inc. (DLG), a California-based real estate scam. Through its continued investigation of DLG, OFIR found that the company&rsquo;s offerings were being promoted by ABC agents and that these agents were also soliciting DGF and DLAH products. ABC and its agents solicited investors at free lunch seminars, in-home presentations and through cold call leads. <br /> <br /> OFIR determined that both DGF and DLAH issued contracts involving investment opportunities that involved real estate, alternative energy, hedge funds and short term loans. DGF and DLAH claimed they would pay annual returns of up to 12% and that investors could withdraw their funds at anytime with nominal penalties. Some investors did receive alleged dividend checks, but a vast majority never had access to their funds. <br /> Violations of the Uniform Securities Act may subject any of the above mentioned companies and individuals to up to 10 years imprisonment and civil fines. <br /> OFIR has handed the results of its investigation over to the appropriate law enforcement agencies. <br /> If consumers think they may be a victim of any of the above-mentioned investment schemes, they are asked to contact OFIR toll-free at (877) 999-6442. <br /> OFIR&rsquo;s investigation found that these investment offerings should have raised a number of red flags for consumers, which included: <br /> &bull; Investors received no financial statements, risk disclosures or other disclosures that would have been material to a reasonable investor before investing. <br /> &bull; The companies and individuals provided no documentation that they were registered with the state. <br /> To view OFIR&rsquo;s cease and desist orders, visit: <br /> http://www.michigan.gov/documents/dleg/American_Benefit_Concepts_Inc_CD_10-7795_330419_7.pdf <br /> http://www.michigan.gov/documents/dleg/McQueen_CD_330130_7.pdf <br /> http://www.michigan.gov/documents/dleg/David_McQueen_Diversified_Global_Finance_Ltd_330421_7.pdf <br /> http://www.michigan.gov/documents/dleg/Diversified_Lending_Group_Inc._-_Order_to_Cease_and_Desist_264344_7.pdf <br /> <br /> Jason Moon <br /> Public Information Officer <br /> Office of Financial and Insurance Regulation <br /> Phone: (517) 335-1700 <p class="timestamp">&nbsp;</p>urn:uuid:d54320d8-0f4a-4101-b7d9-2ac260485688Important information for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan health insurance&nbsp;clients: Since PPACA became law on March 23, the federal Department of Health and Human Services has released interim regulations for various provisions. At this tim...Tue, 27 Jul 2010 13:48:46 -0500<p>Important information for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan <a href="http://www.metroagency.net/category.aspx?id=LIFEHEALTH">health insurance</a>&nbsp;clients:<br /> <br /> Since <acronym title="Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act ">PPACA</acronym> became law on March 23, the federal Department of Health and Human Services has released interim regulations for various provisions. </p> <p>At this time, <acronym title="Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan">BCBSM</acronym> and <acronym title="Blue Care Network">BCN</acronym> are implementing benefit changes impacted by these provisions:</p> <ul> <li>Extending dependent coverage up to age 26 </li> <li>Removal of lifetime dollar limits </li> <li>Removal of pre-existing condition exclusions for children up to age 19 </li> <li>Prohibiting rescissions with limited exceptions </li> <li>Clarifying emergency services </li> </ul> <p><acronym title="Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan">BCBSM</acronym> and <acronym title="Blue Care Network">BCN</acronym> were compliant with these provisions prior to the passage of <acronym title="Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act ">PPACA</acronym>, which means no action is required: </p> <ul> <li>Obstetrician/gynecologist for women's access </li> <li>Pediatrician for child's primary care physician </li> </ul> <p>For more information please visit this site: <a href="http://www.bcbsm.com/portal/bluesmarketplace/pdf/103091ONHR_180-dayChange_IND_v04web.pdf">http://www.bcbsm.com/portal/bluesmarketplace/pdf/103091ONHR_180-dayChange_IND_v04web.pdf</a></p>urn:uuid:a60eb5a8-4c5d-4483-931d-de71babb19c7Auto Insurance&nbsp;and Home Insurance&nbsp;will usually cover fires. Here is an interesting case; is it real? who knows for sure: A lawyer in Charlotte, NC purchased a box of very rare and expensive cigars, then insured them against fire among othe...Tue, 20 Jul 2010 15:41:17 -0500<a href="http://www.metroagency.nwt">Auto Insurance</a>&nbsp;and <a href="http://www.metroagency.net">Home Insurance</a>&nbsp;will usually cover fires. Here is an interesting case; is it real? who knows for sure:<br /> <br /> A lawyer in Charlotte, NC purchased a box of very rare and expensive cigars, then insured them against fire among other things. Within a month, having smoked his entire stockpile of these great cigars and without yet having made even his first premium payment on the policy, the lawyer filed a claim with the insurance company.<br /> In his claim, the lawyer stated the cigars were lost "in a series of small fires." The insurance company refused to pay, citing the obvious reason: that the man had consumed the cigars in the normal fashion. The lawyer sued....and won! In delivering the ruling the judge agreed with the insurance company that the claim was frivolous. The judge stated nevertheless, that the lawyer held a policy from the company in which it had warranted that the cigars were insurable and also guaranteed that it would insure them against fire, without defining what is considered to be "unacceptable fire," and was obligated to pay the claim. Rather than endure lengthy and costly appeal process, the insurance company accepted the ruling and paid $15,000.00 to the lawyer for his loss of the rare cigars lost in the "fires."<br /> But... After the lawyer cashed the check, the insurance company had him arrested on 24 counts of ARSON! With his own insurance claim and testimony from the previous case used against him, the lawyer was convicted of intentionally burning his insured property and was sentenced to 24 months in jail and a $24,000.00 fine.<br />urn:uuid:f73591f9-4650-4b38-9371-18ddf52a96d8Seeing the USA in an RV is an excellent way to spend some quality time with the family but like most everything these days special consideration is needed to properly&nbsp;insure your RV or motor home. Our staff of Certified Insurance Counselors can ...Wed, 07 Jul 2010 10:24:09 -0500Seeing the USA in an RV is an excellent way to spend some quality time with the family but like most everything these days special consideration is needed to properly&nbsp;<a href="http://www.metroagency.net">insure your RV or motor home</a>. Our staff of Certified Insurance Counselors can help guide you through the coverage needs and provide you with a proposal for your review. Even if you're thinking of <a href="http://www.metroagency.net">renting an RV </a>please contact&nbsp;<a href="http://www.metroagency.net">Metro Agency</a>&nbsp;for the best way to address the restrictions in your current <a href="http://www.metroagency.net">auto insurance</a>&nbsp;policy.urn:uuid:36599af8-1878-4a3d-bda6-28a651408aadDid you know? We have been providing auto insurance to Livonia residents since 1959. Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:45:19 -0600Did you know? We have been providing <a href="http://www.metroagency.net" class="ApplyClass">auto insurance to Livonia</a> residents since 1959. urn:uuid:27849b8b-1676-4a20-aa5a-b895ec6705a0When we write multiple policies for the same policyholder its allows for better pricing and coverage, the ability to pay all your bills to one company online, and increased discounts!  By writing your auto and home insurance policies with Metro Agenc...Thu, 25 Feb 2010 10:52:01 -0600<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">When we write multiple policies for the same policyholder its allows for better pricing and coverage, the ability to pay all your bills to one company online, and increased discounts!  By writing your <a href="http://www.metroagency.net" class="ApplyClass">auto and home insurance</a> policies with Metro Agency we can minimize gaps in coverage and avoid claim coverage issues between insurance companies.  Also, when multiple policies, such as your home and auto, are placed with the same company, you are eligible for additional discounts—extra savings for you! </p> urn:uuid:818e281d-5b2e-4f34-a152-a90f24b4d661Home fire prevention is everyone’s responsibility, and with some common sense applied to every day activities, most fires can be prevented.  Unattended cooking is the leading cause of kitchen fires, so never leave a stove/kitchen unattended. · Know ...Wed, 17 Feb 2010 08:11:55 -0600<strong>Home fire prevention is everyone’s responsibility, and with some common sense applied to every day activities, most fires can be prevented.<br /> <br />  </strong>Unattended cooking is the leading cause of kitchen fires, so never leave a stove/kitchen unattended. <strong>· </strong>Know how to put out a pan fire by putting a lid over it or pouring salt on it. <b>Never</b> pour water on a grease fire. <strong>·</strong> Keep anything that’s combustible at least three feet away from the cook top. <strong>·</strong> When using a BBQ grill be sure to keep it several feet away from walls and shrubs’ and anything combustible, and do not leave it unattended. <strong>·</strong> Because children are fascinated by matches and fire, be sure matches and lighters are kept in a secure place away from children.<br /> <br /> <b>Fire extinguishers</b> should be handy and available, especially in kitchens and furnace rooms. <strong>·</strong>Have an escape route for your family, practice twice a year and have a meeting place outside the home. Try to have two exits from each room in case one is blocked. <strong>·</strong> <b>Smoke detectors </b>are a necessity and should be in or outside all bedrooms and on all levels. They should be tested monthly and the batteries should be replaced twice a year<br /> <br /> We are <a href="http://www.metroagency.net" class="ApplyClass">Livonia's Home Insurance </a>specialists, call us any time for a no obligation review of your <a href="http://www.metroagency.net">auto insurance </a>or <a href="http://www.metroagency.net">homeowners insurance </a>needs urn:uuid:6f26d571-3696-42b2-93dd-8abc9ea7252dNew "Green" discount for  Livonia auto insurance  policy holders from Auto Owners: Get A Green Discount From Auto-Owners!  As an incentive for going paperless, policyholders will be eligible for the Green Discount if certain requirements are met. ...Mon, 15 Feb 2010 13:32:20 -0600New "Green" discount for  <a href="http://www.metroagency.net">Livonia auto insurance </a> policy holders from Auto Owners:<br /> <br /> <b> <p style="text-align: left;">Get A Green Discount From Auto-Owners! </p> </b> <p style="text-align: left;">As an incentive for going paperless, policyholders will be eligible for the Green Discount if certain requirements are met. The Green Discount is a $5 credit per eligible policy that will be applied to the customer’s billing account if the following conditions are met: <br /> <br /> * The policy and billing accounts must be for a personal automobile, homeowners (except Florida) or mobile homeowners policy.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">• The billing accounts must be set up as company bill (paid directly to the company). </p> <p style="text-align: left;">• The customer must be enrolled online.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">• The policy documents and billing invoices must be paperless.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">• Policy premiums must be paid electronically.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">For more information, please contact our office.</p>