Merry Christmas to All!!!

Have the merriest of Christmas. Enjoy family, friends, and everything that is this special Holiday!

Governor Perry Announces Moment of Silence

Governor Perry has asked us to remember the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary tragedy with a moment of silence Friday, December 21, at 9:30 am central standard time.

Click here for the press release.

To Our Friends and Neighbors in Connecticut

Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers in this time of great grief. May God Bless You and keep you close.

Pearl Harbor Day

Today is December 7, 2012. 71 years ago we were attacked by the Japanese, and the country, and I would say the world, has not been the same since. Some terrible death and destruction, but also alot of progress, ingenuity, creativity, and strength. Let's remember not only those who sacrificied on that occassion, but how our great country has come from that day to an even greater nation.

God Bless America, and God Bless Us All.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Live like no one else...

We are fans of Dave Ramsey, are you? He has a way of bringing things into perspective. "Live like no one else, so you can LIVE like no one else." Here is what he suggests about our holiday spending habits...

http://www.daveramsey.com/christmas/blog/id/6-ways-to-celebrate-debt-free

Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Giving Tuesday

Its so easy for us to get caught up in alot of crazy stuff in the next few days. Over-cooking, over-eating, over-shopping. Crowds, deals, and stuff (or stuffed!) tends to drive our activities. Here is a new and different approach to the season, and one that will benefit others. Giving Tuesday. Its a focus on charity, and a way to emphasize it while we are in a holiday and giving spirit. Check it out. I have already gotten some emails about charities that we support who are participating. You might find yours too. There are lots of needs, and this is a way to help out in a new way! Pass it on...

http://givingtuesday.org/

A hearty thank you to our Veterans

On this day we Americans pause to salute our veterans. Those courageous souls who have donned the uniform of the United States military services. Without them, we would be a different place. Their strength, determination, and voluntary duty are special and unique. If you are a veteran, Thank You so much for your service. Know that you are appreciated and respected. If you know one, thank them personally for their service. They don't ask for much, and have given more than most of us, and they will appreciate the notice.
God Bless You all.

Today is the day. Click here to find where to vote.

We have a special privelege today, one that most of the world does not exercise or understand. If you don't know where to vote, check this out. Its fast and easy.

http://votetexas.gov/voting/where/

Some helpful info on home insurance

This is from one of our major carriers, Safeco Insurance...

http://www.safeco.com/insurance-101/consumer-tips/your-home

Don't forget to set back the clocks...

It's that time of year again. This Saturday night we set back the clocks, to regain that hour of sleep we lost last spring. Don't be late for church or the game!

What Can I Do To Help???

We are sitting here comforably in Texas, watching the news and reading online of the superstorm, Hurricane Sandy. Somewhat removed and disconnected. Certainly unable to do anything to stop the inevitable crash of wind, rain, even snow. Most of us probably have family and friends somewhere in the wide path of this "Frankenstorm." And so what can we do? Here are some good ideas of ways to contribute to organizations that can put your money to good use and leverage buying power.

Mercury One http://www.mercuryone.org/

The Salvation Army https://donate.salvationarmyusa.org/disaster

The American Red Cross http://www.redcross.org/news/press-release/Red-Cross-Responding-to-Hurricane-Sandy

any other agencies that are affiliated with causes or denominations that you trust.

Fundraiser for Austin HS Orchestra

Hey people in Sugar Land, come out to support the Austin HS Orchestra. Buy a pizza at Pappa Murphy's, Hwy 6 and W Airport Blvd. Tuesday 10/16 from 3:30 to 7:30 pm. Proceeds go to the orchestra for training, clinics, etc. And good music! Pappa Murphy's is Take and Bake...

Yes, We Still Remember

Rates, hurricanes, bikes, teens etc...

Insurance rates are going up on all lines and most carriers. It might be nothing you did, or it might be because of activity (tickets, accidents). That doesn't mean you can't get a better deal. Sometimes if you shop, you can win just by looking. Carriers have different price profiles. One of our carriers even says they are lowering rates in some areas for auto insurance. Doesn't hurt to try. We are entering the most active part of hurricane season. Are you ready? There are two Hurricanes in the Atlantic right now, Leslie and Michael (I guess I missed the J and K storms). And a disturbance just south of Louisiana. Stock up. Store shelves run out quick. Be sure your home insurance renewal is taken care of if it is coming due this month or next. Ride safe on your motorcycle with one of our coverage plans for your prized possession. Liability only or more complete coverage. We also offer policies for boats and RV's. Umbrella coverage too. Do you have a teen driver? Remember that you still control the car. They aren't mature enough yet to make all those decisions. If they're on your insurance, they need to follow your rules. Remind them about drinking and driving, being extra cautious at night, wearing their seat belt, and watch out on the weekends. Many teenager fatalities occur on Friday-Sunday. And tell them not to ride around with a bunch of crazy teens, even if their not driving. You don't want them hurt because of someone else's foolish behavior either. Call us if you need some advice or help.

US Flag at Half-Staff for Aurora Shooting Victims

US Flag

Its the Fourth of July, 2012!!!

God Bless the USA! Happy Independence Day fellow countrymen! This day 236 years ago marked the beginning of the struggle for our freedom. It wasn't until 1783 that the Revolution was over. The lesson here is diligence, vision, prayer and faith. And history to repeat itself.

Happy Fathers Day!

Fire up the grill, grab the gang and go out for a meal, pay him a visit or make a phone call. Enjoy some time with your Dad this weekend. On the porch, at a game, or just at home in the cool a/c. It may be awkward or distant or not; everybody likes to be thought of. Some guys struggle with how to be the best dad, but sometimes just being there is the best thing for everybody. Here's hoping this day is good in all the right ways.

Happy Fathers Day Dad!!!

This Day in History

June 14 is the official commemoration of the adoption of the US flag. That occurred at the Second Continental Congress, on June 14, 1777. President Woodrow Wilson proclamed the day to be Flag Day in 1916. Although it is not a federal holiday, its a great reason to put out the stars and stripes. You may have seen them around town today. Today is also the birthday of the US Army, which was founded on June 14, 1775 by Congress. Happy Birthday, soldiers!

Its Summertime!

Summer is here. The kids are home from college, graduations are over, and the schools are resting. So are the teachers, I'm sure. Its a time of year for rest, fun, vacations, a slower pace and maybe catching up on some things around the house that have been put off for awhile.

If you find yourself doing some fix up around the house, inside or out, or on the car, and you think you might want to do the same for your insurance, give us a call. We would be happy to help you sort out your insurance portfolio. No muss, no fuss, no obligation. Give us a call. Your place or ours.

Enjoy your summer. Ice cream tastes best this time of year...

Graduation, Memorial Day

It's that time of year again. High School and College Graduation ceremonies are coming; some have already occured. Some of our friends and family will be embarking on a new and exciting time of life.
Memorial Day is here as well. Originally known as Decoration Day, and meant to commemorate the sacrifices of the fighting forces who died in the Civil War, it now recognized all fallen soldiers from our military.
Here's wishing that you and yours have a great time of fun and joy building relationships with those important to you, celebrating the academic accomplishments, and remembering why we are so free.

Wild storm last night; Happy Mothers Day

First off, a very Happy Mothers Day to all the Moms out there. We hope you have a pleasant and enjoyable weekend with your family. The rest of you, cook and clean up and get her some coffee!

Did you have any damage last night from the storms? KHOU says Fort Bend County got it the worst, but the intensity was all over our area. Check your roof, your ceilings, the yard and fence, and your neighbor, especially if they are out of town. Call us or your own agent if you need some help. Some lowlying underpasses are still flooded, so avoid them.

Have a great weekend...

My experience after renting a car! More tips...

I don’t do this much, but Beth and I had the opportunity to rent a car on a trip we took last week. Two cars, actually. And it was kind of a mess. I won’t use names here, but I’ll tell you what happened.

The first Company (Company A) was real nice to us at first. They did the paperwork, gave us a GPS unit, mentioned there is cold water downstairs (?) and sent us on down to pick up the car. There were 3 or 4 friendly people there waiting, and one of them took my paperwork. They offered us water. We took it. They took us over to the section for the full size cars, and then I found out why they were so pushy with the water. They wanted me to buy all their stuff! First they tried to scare me that my insurance wasn’t enough, then they said any new scratches or dents would be up to me to pay for, then they tried to tell me there was this thing about “loss of use”. What’s that? We use that term too, but not like this! They said if the car is damaged and has to be fixed, we will have to pay for the time it is out of service. And that could be a lot of money. Like $750. Oh, and there’s insurance for that. Sign here! No thanks, sista, I ain’t interested.

Company B was A LOT less pressure, but they didn’t help me find a car. I got lost in the parking garage, picked the wrong car, had to drive it backwards back to its spot, and then go find a new one. They asked me if I wanted any of the insurance options, and made me sign for it, but didn’t bother to go into explaining any of it. So I was left to figure it out for myself.  THEY didn’t even check the car for dents and dings! No free water. L

So, here’s some tips for you (in no particular order)

• ·         Different insurance companies handle this differently. Be sure to check with them or your agent, especially if you have changed insurance lately.
• ·         You likely have at least some coverage, because your liability coverage goes with you.
• ·         Liability protects you in any car you drive. Your policy may or may not be primary (first to pay).
• ·         Liability might also pay for damage to the rental car, since you don’t own it. This is just one good reason to have high limits on liability.
• ·         Other insurance companies will only cover the rental car if you have comprehensive and collision on your own policy.
• ·         This nutsy stuff about “loss of use” – very hard for them to prove that they had no other cars to rent but the one you wrecked. But very easy for them to scare you.
• ·         Different rental companies handle the sale in different ways. We found two totally different approaches from the two companies we encountered.
• ·         My disclaimer. The policy and company procedures rule. Not what I say here. But don’t let them scare you into anything. Find out before you rent, what you are covered for, and then make up your own mind.

·         You can save money by not buying their coverage, since your own policy will kick in. But if there is an accident, there may be consequences (read$$$) just like if it was your car. So make a decision that you can live with.

A couple of other notes – rental contract rules.

Be sure anyone who will be driving the rental car is listed as a driver on the contract. And be sure they have their own insurance. This can especially be a problem for foreign visitors. They can drive your car, because you gave them permission, but you can’t give them permission for the rental car, because it isn’t yours. And their foreign insurance might not apply here. That makes them exposed. NOT good.

So, make a decision you can live with, and then enjoy the trip! It’s what you came for, right?

renting a car anytime soon?

Spring break is coming up soon. Are you renting a car for a trip? Your current auto insurance policy might provide coverage for that rental car so that you don't have to buy the expensive insurance coverage that the car rental agencies sell. Different insurance companies handle it different ways, so don't assume you have it. Check with your agent to be sure.

Another thing to consider is that if you want to protect your insurance, consider buying theirs. It might keep you from having to use your own insurance

In any event, be sure you take your auto insurance card when you rent the car. They will want to know that you have insurance either way.

Happy Spring Break-ing!!!

Spring Cleaning? Spring Planting?

Getting to be that time when we start coming out of hibernation and planning for spring! Even if the heating is still running and its too cold to plant, those thoughts are starting to rustle. Spring training has already started. Don't forget about your insurance too. We can help you clear the cobwebs and see if there is anything you have overlooked, or need explained. Call or stop by - we'd be glad to help. And as always, no pressure, just some truth and explanations.

Storm Damage?

If you have storm damage from today's severe weather in the Greater Houston area, here are some tips.

1. Stay calm. Those who depend on you will appreciate that.
2. Protect yourself and your family.
3. Take steps to protect from further damage, if it is safe to do so and you can accomplish that without going out in bad weather.
4. Move furniture if possible.
5. Try to clean up standing water with towels, wet/dry vac, steam cleaner, etc.
6. Take pictures of damage, and water levels outside your home.
7. Call us if you are unsure of how to proceed.
8. Water rising from the street/yard is flooding. That will be covered by flood insurance. It is not covered by homeowners insurance.
9. Water leaking from the roof, ceiling, windows, doors, etc, may be covered by your homeowners insurance depending upon cause, location of entry, and the specifics of your policy. It doesn't hurt to ask us, or your agent.
10. If you don't have flood insurance, this might cause you to realize that might be a good choice. Let us know if we can help.