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Notice of Passing Gerard M. Visco CEO

Notice of Passing Gerard M. Visco CEO

It is with great sadness that we share the loss of our CEO, Gerard M. Visco

Gerard M. (Jerry) Visco-of Holtsville passed away at the age of 89 after an impressive battle resulting from complications due to the COVID-19 virus on April 13, 2020.

Jerry is being remembered for being full of love, laughter and having lived a remarkable life that focused around family and business.

After serving in the Army on active duty from 1952-1954, he continued on in the Army Reserves from 1954-1974 where he achieved the rank of Master Sargent.  During his military career, Jerry also studied at City College and achieved a Bachelor’s Degree and his multiple Insurance Licenses.

He began his career as an Independent Insurance Agent in 1957 at a small agency on John Street in NYC.  Jerry started his own Insurance Agency, B & V Associates in Roosevelt, New York soon after. This later culminated into a cluster of agencies known as C.H. Edwards, Inc. where he remained as President and CEO until he retired in 2011.

Jerry was very active in the Insurance community having served all the chairs of the Nassau Independent Insurance Agents Association and finished that chapter as President in 1982.   In addition to his local board activities,  Jerry served as President of the Downstate Insurance Agents Council where he received many prestigious awards for his work. He remained active in serving the Insurance community on the State and National levels.  Jerry took on the role of IIAANY’s President serving from 1994-1995  where he distributed more than 40,000 Stay Alive, Don’t Drink and Drive bumper stickers as part of a campaign he developed as an education initiative. Jerry’s passion continues on and remains in the family as C.H. Edwards, Inc. located in Wading River, New York owned and operated by his son Steven and daughter-in-law, Denise.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 66 years Louisa, brother Michael, Jerry’s four children, Gerard Jr, Vincent, Jean and Steven, their spouses as well as his nine grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

There will be a small family service at Pinelawn Cemetery on Friday, April 17, 2020.  Due to the circumstances surrounding Social Distancing and the COVID-19 virus, there will be no other service.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider a donation to a cause very special to Jerry and the entire Visco Family.

Jerry expressed concern on many occasions for the future of his grandchildren and for other adults living with developmental disabilities.  It was his wish to make the resources available to their caregivers and see these individuals supported to live life to their full potential.  In keeping with Jerry’s vision, The Visco Family is requesting any donations in his memory be made to Smile LI (Support My Independent Life).  Smile is 501(c) 3 non-profit organization whose mission is to support individuals with developmental disabilities live a self-determined, independent life.  Donations can be sent to SmileLI, 290 Hawkins Avenue, Lake Ronkonkoma, New York 11779.  www.smileli.org

How to Make Existing Windows More Energy Efficient

How to Make Existing Windows More Energy Efficient

The colder months are officially among us! Drafty windows in your home make it less comfortable for you and your family by allowing cold air to enter your home during these fall and winter months. Not only is this a cause for discomfort but it also has a negative impact on the environment.

Leaky windows require heating systems to work harder, therefore increasing energy consumption. You can help keep your home warm while being more energy efficient with a few of these helpful tips:

Caulk or add weather stripping. Small cracks and gaps around windows, which are most often found around windows in older buildings, might not seem like a big deal but can be the biggest reason as to why you have a draft! Fixing these small cracks will go a long way when it comes to keeping your home warm and saving energy.

Install window films. Plastic window films are another option for homeowners looking to keep their home warm and save energy. Heat shrink film can be cut to fit each individual leaky window in a home and help save you tons on energy costs.

Once you have sealed up the cracks and gaps in your window, be sure to open your curtains during the day time. The natural light shining in will warm your home up.

Drafty and leaky windows are bad for homeowners! Not only does it cause you to be uncomfortable but it can drive up your energy bill. Thankfully, there are options!

For information on homeowners insurance or how to save on your homeowners’ premium, give us a call at 516-249-5200.

 

Renters Insurance for Your College Student

Renters Insurance for Your College Student

Do you have a child heading off to college this upcoming school semester?
If you do, now is the time to look into a renter’s policy to ensure the safety of their personal belongings.

Research shows that 60% of renters do not carry renters insurance. Many consumers think that they can’t afford it, or it’s not important.

The truth is renters insurance is one of the most affordable and most important policies to have when becoming a renter. The average cost of a renter’s policy is about $15 a month! That makes it easy and affordable for you and your hard working college student!

As a renter, you need coverage for your furniture and other personal belongings such as clothes, computer equipment, sports gear, art, jewelry and everything else you own.

Think about how much it would cost you to replace everything you own.

A Renters policy protects you if your covered property is lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed regardless of where it is when the loss occurs, such as while you are moving it or even in another’s home.

For more information on renters insurance, please give us a call at 516-249-5200.

 

Save Money While on Vacation

Save Money While on Vacation

Going on vacation often means indulging here and there on purchases. When you travel, you may want to be sure you are spending your hard earned money in the smartest ways.

Here are some suggestions on how to make your next vacation memorable and affordable!

Be flexible – Travelers who are flexible in their departure dates and times can usually find great deals and rates because they have the ability to shop price instead of date.

Pack light – Many airlines now charge extra for baggage fees, especially suitcases. Pack only the necessities.

Use coupons – Coupons aren’t only for getting cents off your brand tissue at the supermarket. Coupon and discount codes are available for just about any purchase – even vacations. Check all travel websites to see if there are any deals and specials going on when booking your trip.

Plan meals – Look into economical restaurants before departing. Know where you’ll be eating and when.

Rent small – If you are renting a car, choose the smallest model that will fit your needs. In addition, there is no need to pay for a large room that you don’t plan to spend much time in.

Consider public transportation – Investigate public transportation options near your destination. Such options may not be as convenient as taxis, but they may be more economical.

Make your next vacation unforgettable!

 

 

Summer Guide to U-Pick Lewin’s Farm!

Summer Guide to U-Pick Lewin’s Farm!

Summer is here and that only means one thing, fresh summer produce! If you love fresh fruits and vegetables, check out one of Long Island’s many “U-Pick” farms on the east end! With a wide variety of choices ranging from blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, peaches, tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and more, you and your family are sure to find something you all love!

Lewin’s farm on Sound Avenue in Calverton offers many fun, family activities along with their “U-Pick” farm experience.

Even if you don’t feel like picking your own produce, Lewin’s offers a huge farm stand of already picked fresh produce right at your fingertips.

While there, make sure to take a drive down Sound Avenue and see what other farms and stands can offer you.

Its summer fun for the whole family, don’t miss out on this year’s summer picking season.

Lewin Farm
812 Sound Avenue
Calverton, NY 11933
Phone: 631-929-4327

 

Looking for a twist on your weekend breakfast/brunch?

Try some Cheese and Blueberry Danish

What you need:

  • 1 package (8 oz.) refrigerated crescent dinner rolls
  • 4 oz. package of cream cheese
  • Sugar to taste
  • ½ cup of Blueberries

How to make it:

  • Heat your oven to 350 degrees
  • Unroll the crescent rolls onto a greased baking sheet
  • Use two triangle pieces to make one square (you will have four at the end)
  • Pinch the seams to hold the dough together
  • In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and sugar until it is as sweet as you like
  • Spread a spoonful of cream cheese onto the dough and top with a handful of blueberries
  • Bring opposite corners of rectangles together and press together to seal.
  • Bake 11 to 13 minutes or until golden brown

Enjoy!

Water Park Safety

Water Park Safety

The Summer Season is a fun time to enjoy the outdoors and all the activities that come with the warm weather.

If you’re planning to take a trip to your local water park, be sure to follow these important safety tips to help ensure the safety of yourself and other:

  • Children under 48″, non-swimmers, and weak swimmers should wear a Coast Guard approved life vest while enjoying water park attractions.
  • Children in diapers should be dressed in waterproof swim diapers to minimize leakage.
  • Children should not ride attractions that are not suitable for their height, weight or age.
  • Keep an eye on your children and make sure you know where they are at all times.
  • Dress appropriately, and be sure to bring a dry pair of clothing to change into once you have had enough sun for the day.
  • Apply waterproof sunscreen before leaving home and be sure to reapply throughout the day.
  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  • Read the signs at every attraction and listen to all audio instructions provided by recordings or staff.
  • Follow the lifeguards’ instructions and signal them if you or someone else is in trouble.
  • If your group plans to split up, be sure to use the buddy system. This is an excellent way to make sure no one is left behind.

Enjoy your summer season safely!