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National Walk Your Pet Month

National Walk Your Pet Month

January is National Walk Your Pet Month. During these cold winter months, it is important to keep your four legged friend warm when taking them for walks.

Many people are under the impression that dogs have a better capability of surviving cold temperatures than humans. However, this is not entirely true. Dogs may have the advantage of a fur coat but it does not mean they can stay warm in bitter cold temperatures.

Here are some helpful tips to follow, when keeping your dog warm during outdoor winter activities:

1. Dress your dog in a warm sweater when going on walks and playing outside. This extra layer of warmth will allow your dog to have more time outside without getting cold too quickly.

2. Slip on some dog booties. Dog booties are a great way to keep your dog’s paws warm when walking them in cold weather conditions such as snow.

3. If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, make sure they have the proper housing to shelter them. Their doghouse should have a sloped roof, insulation and even a heater if they will be in there for an extended amount of time.

4. Provide more food during winter months. Dogs use up more calories in the winter trying to stay warm. Providing a little extra food will allow your dog to have more energy.

Don’t forget the occasional treat and the belly rub. Nothing warms your dog’s heart and soul more than special food, and attention from their very best friend.

Written by: Amanda Haase

January is Eye Care Awareness Month

January is Eye Care Awareness Month

January is Eye Care Awareness month. Many think that eye exams and checkups are not as important as annual physicals from your primary doctor. That is not always the case.

It’s generally not necessary to see an eye doctor every 6 months for an eye exam, however, it is important to know when you should get your eyes checked. Age and medical conditions are two things to consider when making this choice.

Here are some other signs and symptoms that will let you know when it is time for an eye exam:

Sudden blurry vision or focus problems can be a sign of a larger health issue and should always be taken seriously. Even if it is happening in just one eye, play it safe and get it checked out.

Sudden appearances of visual disturbances such as floaters can be a sign of a retinal detachment, a retinal tear, or a retinal hole. If you experience this symptom, be sure to seek medical attention to avoid future vision loss or damage.

Gradual Blurring of Vision usually occurs over time or as we get older. If you have to move closer or further away from objects to have a better focus, it’s time to get a checkup.

Frequent or recurring headaches can be a closely related sign of a vision problem as well.

Having some infrequent eye pain or eye strain isn’t usually a big problem. However, if you are experiencing frequent eye pains or need to strain your eyes to focus, this could very well be a sign of a vision problem.

It is important that you and your family to get eyes checked today. Schedule an appointment with your eye care specialist for the New Year to avoid any future problems.

If you don’t have an eye doctor, find one at www.allaboutvision.com. This sight will help you locate an eye doctor in your area.

For more informational blogs like this one, visit our website at www.chedwards.net

Written by: Amanda Haase

A Little History Behind The Celebration of the New Year and New Year’s Resolutions

A Little History Behind The Celebration of the New Year and New Year’s Resolutions

2016 is here!  The holidays are over.  Winter has arrived with shorter days and dark and colder nights.    The tendency to review the prior year and create a plan for the year ahead is on most to-do lists.  This kind of thinking leads to the dreaded New Year’s resolution.  It could be to resolve to exercise more, eat better, or kick the habits that are preventing us from enhancing our lives as we choose.  All too often, these practices are short lived.  We fall back into the ways of the previous year within a few short months or even weeks.  Have you ever wondered where or why the idea of the New Year’s Resolution came from in the first place or why the New Year was decided to take place on January 1st?

Looking into this subject, I learned that the celebration of the New Year is one of the oldest holidays on record.  It observance dates back to Babylon about 4,000 years ago.  At that time the New Year was celebrated in late March and the celebration lasted 11 days.  January 1st became the New Year in 46 B.C. by Julius Caesar in Rome.  This was only true in cultures that used the 365 day solar calendar.  The Romans named the first month of the year after Janus, the God of beginnings and ends and the protector of doorways, arches and gates.  Janus had two faces, one on the front and one on the back of his head so he could simultaneously look into the past and the future.  After a few changes, by the sixteenth century  January 1st. was again decided on by Pope Gregory the XIII after his revision of the Julian Calendar.

Now that we know the origin of why the New Year is celebrated on January 1, let’s look at the concept of the New Year’s resolution.  The tradition of New Year’s resolutions began in Rome and had mostly to do with seeking forgiveness from their enemies and doing good for others in the new year.  The Romans also exchanged gifts on New Year’s Eve, usually gifting items that were believed to bring good fortune to the recipients.  As early as the 17thcentury, the Puritans would skip the festivities of the holiday, but participated in the practice of reflection over the past year and contemplation of the year ahead.  They then made resolutions like making better use of their talents, being charitable and avoiding sin.

The making of New Year’s resolutions today is one of personal choice. The historic reason behind them is far removed from the early days but nonetheless meaningful.  I like to resolve to grow in the next year, to educate myself to become more knowledgeable, to continue my quest for good health and to support my husband and children on their journey to achieve personal happiness.  What might yours be?  Whatever it is, make it meaningful and lasting.  A fresh start is offered to us at the beginning of every year.  Make the most of it!

If considering Life Insurance or making sure you are receiving the most insurance at a price that you can afford is on your list of resolutions, give C.H. Edwards, Inc. a call and let us assist you on this path to growth.  Call us at 516-249-5200. View our website at  www.chedwards.net learn about us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/chedwardsinsurance.

Happy New Year from your friends at C.H. Edwards, Inc., a family owned and operated  Independent Insurance Agency in Farmingdale, New York.

Written by: Denise A. Visco

Make Safe Travel #1 on your Holiday List

Make Safe Travel #1 on your Holiday List

Fact, the United States Department of Transportation says the Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year’s holiday periods are among the busiest long-distance travel periods of the year.

Approximately 90 percent of holiday travel takes place by personal vehicle, followed by air, bus and train. With so many people on the move, the risk for accidents and other incidents increases.

Keep the holidays enjoyable and safe, be sure to exercise caution and keep these few tips in mind:

Schedule a tune-up. Make sure your vehicle is in good working condition. Check the air pressure in tires and get an oil change your car is due. Other cars on the road may kick up salt and other debris from the road. Be sure to top off windshield washer fluid to maintain visibility.

Schedule plenty of time for travel. Expect traffic and leave extra time to get to your destination. Rushing may cause you to increase your speed or make risky choices behind the wheel of your car that may result in an accident or injury. Leave extra time for traveling through hazardous conditions like snow, sleet or heavy rain. Schedule time for bathroom and stretch breaks.
Know multiple routes to your destination. The increased volume or accidents on the roadways can result in detours. Make sure your navigation is up to date and a map in your glove box.

Leave room for emergency supplies. Make available room in your car for a change of clothes, a blanket, snacks and water, jumper cables and a flashlight. Drivers should be prepared for a breakdown. If you are a AAA member, remember the holidays are a time when the local companies have crews on holiday schedule and response time may be increased.

Keep the family entertained. A long trip can seem longer without proper planning. Plan for some activities ahead of time. Games, books, videos/dvds and music can help fill the time. Make frequent stops for bathroom and stretch breaks. Don’t forget to pack food and drinks to keep rest break times to a minimum. “Are we there yet” is not a phrase only used by children.

Take turns driving. If you are fortunate enough to travel with multiple drivers, take turns driving. Spending long periods of time behind the wheel can cause fatigue. If you are driving alone, plan for breaks to rest. Drowsy driving is a major cause of accidents on the roadways.
Secure packages and Luggage. Tie down items on roof racks and in rear cargo areas of SUV’s and vans so they are not moving around freely. In the event of an accident, items that are not secured can be dangerous.

Pack gifts and other items so that the driver’s line of sight is not impeded.

Last but certainly not least, review your insurance coverage. During an emergency you want to be assured that you have rental reimbursement, full glass coverage, towing, medical reimbursement and your course collision. A call to your insurance agent can never hurt. If you are unable to reach them or feel it is time for an insurance review, feel free to call C.H. Edwards, Inc. at 516-249-5200 and we would be happy to assist you.

If holiday travel is on your to do list, remember to make safety a priority.

Happy Holidays from your friends at C.H. Edwards, Inc.!

Written by: Denise Visco

The Tradition behind Milk and Cookies for Santa

The Tradition behind Milk and Cookies for Santa

Leaving milk and cookies for Santa Claus is a Christmas Eve tradition that goes as far back as any of us can remember. For generations, children regularly left a glass of milk and a plate of cookies for Santa so that he would have enough energy to complete his journey of gift giving before kids wake up on Christmas morning. Do you know the story behind this tradition?

The tradition of leaving cookies out on Christmas Eve may trace its origins to Saint Nicholas. On the feast of St. Nicholas (the patron saint of children) on December 6th, children would leave food and drink for the saint and any attendants. The treats would be exchanged for gifts.

That’s one theory behind the tradition. Others think the tradition is linked to the history of the Christmas tree and the edible decorations on it. Santa would snack on the ornaments. Even after edible decorations disappeared and inedible ornaments became popular, the tradition of leaving a snack for Santa remained.

Whatever the origins behind the tradition, millions of children leave milk and cookies For Santa on Christmas Eve like it’s a responsibility or simply the insurance that Santa will leave the gifts they asked for.

Just in case, don’t forget to leave milk and cookies for Santa this year. For all of your other Insurance needs, give C.H. Edwards, Inc. a call at 516-249-5200 and let one of Santa’s helpers assist you. If you happen to be up late waiting for Santa, our website is available to you at www.chedwards.net. On social media you can find us at www.facebook.com/chedwardsinsurance. Happy Holidays to all and to all a goodnight!

Written by: Denise Visco

Tips to help make Visiting Santa easier this Season

Tips to help make Visiting Santa easier this Season

Christmastime is filled with many different holiday traditions. While people are decorating their homes or going to holiday themed shows and activities, families with younger children may have a visit to a Santa on their holiday to do list. For some this is an exciting experience, for others this activity can be met with apprehension and even fear. Here are some tips to help make visiting Santa a more pleasurable experience for both children and parents.

Do a test run. If your child has never had a photo or visit with Santa before, they may be frightened. The successful photo visit may take more than one time. Try a walk by, or if the line is short, maybe just a quick hello and then build up to the big event. Observe how your child is reacting and if they are old enough to engage in conversation, talk about the experience. Younger children who are frightened and may be crying can actually be the source of anxiety for older ones. The beard and red coat coupled with the fact of sitting on a strangers lap may also be concerning to your child. Acclimate your child to the experience and let them become familiar with how Santa looks and acts.

Dress comfortably. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Consider not using this opportunity to dress up and wear the shiny new shoes. The new, dress holiday clothes may be another cause of discomfort. The goal is to look nice for the photo but not at the expense of your child’s experience.

Pack some supplies. Bring snacks and drinks for the kids so hunger isn’t the source of discomfort. Bring a change of clothes just in case.

Get Santa recommendations. Ask friends, neighbors or even teachers in the community about Santa visits. Many Santa’s are trained to help make the experience easier for children with anxiety or special needs. Not every Santa is adept at handling children. You want someone who is used to making children feel welcome and comfortable.

Try and have a good time. Don’t expect perfection. Focus on building memories. Sometimes the best moments are the ones that just happen. Enjoy this wonderful time with your children.

Happy Holidays from your Santa’s helpers here at C.H. Edwards, Inc. If we can assist you with your Insurance needs this holiday season, feel free to contact us at 516-249-5200. www.chedwards.net

Written by: Denise A. Visco

It’s a Very Merry Christmas at Walt Disney World!

It’s a Very Merry Christmas at Walt Disney World!

It’s a very merry Christmas time at Walt Disney World. What better way to celebrate the holidays then with cookies, hot chocolate, Christmas parades and Mickey Mouse.

Right after Halloween night comes to an end the elves at Magic Kingdom transform a spooky Halloween spectacular to a winter wonderland. The party starts off with snow all down Main Street. And yes you read that right, snow in Florida! There’s nothing a little Disney Magic can’t do.
Castle at Magic KingdomDuring the snow the Magic Kingdom is filled with Christmas tunes and scents of fresh baked cookies and candy. That’s because throughout the park, there are complementary cookies and hot coco. The cookies and hot coco were my favorite part of the party aside from Mickey and Minnie in their festive attire of course. During the holiday season Frozen stars, Anna and Elsa transform Cinderella castle into their very own glimmering ice palace. This transformation is done with the help of the crowd chanting snow and ice. They get even more help by their friends, Olaf and Kristoff. The night also includes a special Christmas parade called Mickeys Once Upon a Christmastime Parade. The parade kicks off with Mickey and Minnie greeting their holiday party guests and also the princesses accompanied by their princes, an appearance by Olaf and it wraps up with Santa Claus. The parade is followed by celebrate the magic which is a colorful projection show on Cinderella castle. After celebrate the magic comes the much anticipated holiday firework show.
The firework show is always the best way to end a fun filled night of cookies, hot cocoa, singing and dancing to Christmas tunes and Mickey and his pals.

It’s a wonderful time to be in Disney.

Written by: Sandra Costanzo

What to do in the event of an Automobile Accident

What to do in the event of an Automobile Accident

Being involved in a car accident can be a very frightening event for the drivers involved. Here are some things to remember should this happen to you.

-First, stop your vehicle and remain calm.

-Determine if there are any injuries and call for medical assistance if
necessary.

-Call the police to report the accident. Don’t forget to ask the
officer when you can obtain a copy of the report.

-Do not admit to fault of liability. Discuss the accident with only the police and your insurance representative.

-Exchange information, If possible, at the scene. Name, phone number, license numbers of all drivers and passengers and witnesses to the accident, including pedestrians, bicyclists, etc. Ask all drivers for their insurance information.

-Record all details of the accident immediately so nothing is lost or forgotten.

-Important factors to consider are time of accident, weather conditions, direction vehicles were traveling in, condition of the vehicles as well as note any traffic signs, lights or road markings at the site of the accident.

All of the above information is important to have available when calling a claim into your Insurance Agent. Keep a copy of this information in your glove box for safe keeping in the event of an accident.

Has your Insurance Agent ever provided you with this important information? If not, maybe it’s time to consider another agent. C.H. Edwards, Inc. is an Independent Insurance agency located in Farmingdale, New York. We have been in business since 1925 providing our clients with the best customer service and competitive pricing. Call for your
no obligation quote today 516-249-5200.

Written by: Denise A. Visco

ARE YOU LOOKING TO SAVE MONEY ON YOUR AUTO INSURANCE? LET ME TELL YOU HOW YOU CAN SAVE 10% PERCENT ON YOUR LIABILITY IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME

ARE YOU LOOKING TO SAVE MONEY ON YOUR AUTO INSURANCE? LET ME TELL YOU HOW YOU CAN SAVE 10% PERCENT ON YOUR LIABILITY IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME

Sounds interesting? A Defensive Driving course can save you 10% on your liability insurance effective the date of course completion. I’m sure you are saying, I don’t have six hours to spend in a stuffy classroom when the weather is so amazing? What if I told you how to take a Defensive Driving course in your free time with the option of taking breaks whenever you need and the ability to do it whenever and wherever you like?

C.H. Edwards, Inc. makes taking your Defensive Driving course simple and enjoyable. Visit our website at www.chedwards.net and scroll down to the middle of the page. You will see a button that says “Defensive Driving Course, CLICK HERE”. When you click, you will be asked some basic questions and your ready to begin.

One of the benefits of taking the course on line is that you can complete it at your own pace. Instead of sitting for six hours straight, you have the option to pause your training as many times as you like within a month’s time.

Our Defensive Driving course is DMV approved and only costs $25. Once your course is completed, a certificate of completion will be mailed to you with two weeks. To receive a 10% discount on your liability, simply mail or bring a copy of your certificate in to your insurance agent and your discount will begin from date of course completion. If you have any questions about this program, please feel free to call one of our customer service representatives at 516-249-5200.

It’s that easy to lower your auto liability insurance by 10%. Don’t delay in receiving this discount that is yours for the price of a little of your spare time.

Has your insurance agent ever shared this information with you? If not, maybe it’s time for an insurance review? You just visited our website at www.chedwards.net and see what we offer our clients. Give us a call if we can be of assistance to you. A no obligation quote is waiting for you. We are happy to be of service to you. C.H. Edwards, Inc. hopes you will take advantage of this very important information!

Written by: Denise A. Visco

Making Donations to those in need this holiday season on Long Island

Making Donations to those in need this holiday season on Long Island

The holidays are a time when we stop and reflect for all that we are thankful for over the past year. It may be health, or family or even obtaining a goal that seemed out of reach. Some families are not as fortunate and the holidays can be a time of sadness for not being able to provide their families that same hopefulness for the year ahead.

The holiday season provides an opportunity to help those families in need. A food or clothing donation, volunteering at a food bank, collecting gently used toys within your own home or buying an extra gift for donation are just some of the ways you may be able to help. Don’t forget the Pets. Many animal shelters are in need of warm blankets and food during the Winter months. There are organizations all over Long Island that will assist you with your generous donation.

Here are some places on Long Island that will accept your donations:

Little Flower Family and Children’s Services (littleflowerny.org)

Little Flower is located in Wading River and helps children find foster care and possible adoption. Your support in the form of a toy drive, school supply drive or any other drive is greatly appreciated.

Island Harvest www.islandharvest.org 516-294-8528

Island Harvest is a food bank with locations in Mineola, Hauppauge and Uniondale.

Long Island Cares www.licares.org

Long Island Cares helps give out food and helps with school supplies and pets.

Kids United Against Hunger www.unitedwayli.org

Long Island Cares sponsors a project with the United Way of Long Island that helps teach kids about hunger and gives them an opportunity to volunteer at the Harry Chapin Food Bank in Hauppauge.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island www.bbsli.org 631-234-0000

Free pickup at your home is offered. Used clothing, coats, shoes, toys and small household items are appreciated and distributed to people in need.

Goodwill Industries International www.goodwill.org

New Or gently used items including clothing, appliances, electronics and furniture are happily accepted.

Society of St. Vincent De Paul www.svdprvc.org

With locations all over Long Island, they will gladly accepting donations of all kinds.

The Salvation Army www.satruck.org

The Salvation Army gladly accepts gently used items that will be sold through Family Thrift Stores. You can donate appliances, automobiles, adult and children’s clothing furniture and household goods.

These are just a few suggestions. Places of worship often provide the opportunity to donate food , warm weather gear and gifts through outreach services in your local community.

If you are feeling thankful this holiday season and would like to share that feeling with those less fortunate, reach out and make a donation. Your will have one more thing to be thankful for.

Happy Holidays from your friends at C.H. Edwards, Inc.! www.chedwards.net

Written by: Denise A. Visco