May is National Home Improvement Month, the perfect time to dream, design, and dive into your next big home upgrade. If you’ve been looking around and eyeing which wall you want to knock down next, maybe press pause for...

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Handing over the keys to your teenager is a big moment-for them and for you. While it marks a new level of independence, it also comes with serious responsibilities, including making sure your insurance coverage is...

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April is National Financial Literacy Month, and in that spirit, the team here at Wichert wants to make sure that you and your family understand the role insurance plays in your financial forecast. Financial awareness...

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As the weather warms up and the open road starts calling, spring is the perfect time to get your RV ready for travel. Whether you're planning weekend getaways or cross-country adventures, taking the time to properly...

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All of us at Wichert Insurance are so ready for the long, cold, dark winter months to be over. Spring is right around the corner, and we just can’t wait for everything to turn bright and green again. Unfortunately, the...

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Severe weather can strike at any time, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, hail, snow, or extreme heat that can damage your home. Preparing your property in advance can minimize potential damage, reduce costly repairs,...

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From the moment they enter the world, ensuring your children’s wellbeing and security is a top priority for parents. We do our best to keep them from falling down stairs, tripping on sidewalks, running into traffic,...

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Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, protecting you from the elements and keeping your family safe. However, it’s often an overlooked aspect of home maintenance. With proper care and attention, you...

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For the past few years, consistent feedback from our clients and prospects has revealed that finding quality drivers is the number one issue today. In today’s tight job market, towing company owners face mounting...

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As technology advances, so do the tactics of identity thieves. Identity theft is no longer limited to stolen credit card numbers or Social Security fraud-it has evolved into a complex web of cybercrime targeting...

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When a winter storm causes damage to your property, there’s no time to waste. You can save yourself time, money, and stress by understanding how to navigate seasonal homeowners or renters claims efficiently. Follow...

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Car theft is a frustrating and costly experience that affects thousands of vehicle owners each year. While most modern cars come equipped with advanced anti-theft features, thieves are becoming more sophisticated,...

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Life's biggest milestones, like marriage, buying a home, or having children, often bring new financial responsibilities and changes in your insurance needs. To ensure you and your loved ones have the right coverage in...

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From sweater weather to soup season to pumpkin spice everything, this time of year is aglow with bright traditions of autumn that warm our hands and hearts as the temperatures drop. While you’re tending to your favorite...

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October is National Fire Prevention Month, a timely reminder that simple, proactive steps can make all the difference in keeping our homes and families safe from fire. National Fire Prevention Month commemorates the...

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When it comes to personal insurance, most people are familiar with their auto, homeowners, or renters policies. However, fewer may be aware of umbrella insurance-a type of coverage that goes beyond the limits of your...

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That magnificent season is upon us, when deciduous leaves everywhere show their true colors. Fun fact: Those fall colors are present but hidden in leaves all spring and summer, just obscured by the green of chlorophyll....

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Riding a motorcycle offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and excitement, but it also comes with its share of risks. To ensure safety on the road, it's crucial for motorcyclists to invest in proper safety gear. From...

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As young adults, life insurance might not be at the top of your financial to-do list. You might think it’s something to worry about later in life when you have a family or more significant financial obligations. However,...

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Starting a new journey together as newlyweds is an exciting time filled with hopes, dreams, and plans for the future. Amidst the whirlwind of changes, it’s crucial not to overlook the practical aspects of merging your...

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Your new college student has probably been chomping at the bit all summer long to get themselves onto campus-making packing lists, planning their dorm layout, coordinating with their new roommate about who is bringing...

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In the aftermath of an unexpected event, such as a fire, theft, or natural disaster, having a comprehensive home inventory can be a lifeline. This detailed list of your possessions not only aids in the homeowner...

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Renovating your home can be an exciting journey, transforming your living space into the dream dwelling you've always wanted. However, amidst the excitement, it's crucial to undertake precautions to avoid common...

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Hey there, towing pros! We all know that towing isn't just about hooking up and driving off. There's a lot more to it; one detail often overlooked is checking the load height. Yep, we’re talking about the vertical space...

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Nothing builds up anticipation like a countdown to vacation! Before you pack your bags and hop a flight-or a really, really long car ride-follow these steps to ensure that you and your belongings are safe and secure....

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Taking care of fire safety at home is a key part of managing your household. Each year, fires in residential areas cause significant property damage. However, many of these incidents may be prevented with the right...

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If you’re like most first-time homeowners, you aren’t going to Zillow or Realtor.com eagerly hunting for homeowners insurance. We’re all far more excited about the home we plan to buy, not the policy that will protect...

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As parents, the safety of our teenage drivers is paramount. With road accidents constituting a significant risk for young drivers, leveraging technology to enhance their safety isn't just smart; it's essential....

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According to Scientific American, the area of the country known as “Tornado Alley” is shifting eastward, bringing damaging winds and extreme weather conditions to areas of the country that historically haven’t had to...

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Let’s face it, unless you’re in the insurance business, insurance isn’t exactly most people’s favorite subject. But without at least a basic foundation, a lack of familiarity with insurance can cost you-financially and...

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If you think your home isn’t at risk for damage from flooding, think again. According to FEMA, “Since 1996, flooding has affected 99% of U.S. counties, bringing significant damage and financial costs to homeowners and...

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Owning a boat can make weekends and vacations fun and memorable. Follow these tips to help ensure that when you’re towing your boat you’re being as safe as possible to lower the risk of accidents and unwanted insurance...

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If you’re planning a home improvement project, you probably have many contractors available to choose from. How do you pick the right one that will get the job done safely and without liability issues? Follow these tips....

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Insurance is one of those things in life that we tend to think about only when it’s needed. However, if you only revisit your insurance plan in a moment of crisis or claim, you risk being underinsured or worse yet, not...

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In the age where your clients start and end their decisions on the internet, towing companies rely heavily on their online presence to connect with customers. However, recent incidents, like the one reported in Iowa (“...

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The wild winter season can wreak havoc on your home... even without a fierce winter storm. All it takes is dropping temps and unlucky circumstances to turn a cozy night by the fire into your worst nightmare. Here are...

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When you tackle home improvement projects, it’s wise to prioritize those that add the most to your property’s value, especially if you might put your home on the market in the next few years. Here are the renovations...

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You’ve set a goal to lose 20 pounds. You plan to exercise 3 days a week. You’re going to eat healthier, sleep better, and - ah, who knows. It'll be any one of the other resolutions we Americans make each year to be...

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If you have a young driver in your home, you may be fearful about them driving on their own, especially in bad weather or road construction. Here are some tips to share with them to improve safety by adapting their...

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No one gets excited about an increase in their insurance rates, but understanding why these increases are occurring, especially if you haven’t had a claim, can at least soften the blow a bit. Why Do Premiums Change in...

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Days before Christmas, Winter Storm Elliot caused about $5.4 billion of insured losses in 42 states. Unfortunately, storms of this magnitude are not one-off weather events anymore. Winter weather has gotten increasingly...

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Homeowners today have never had more ways to save money through technology. Here are five smart home devices that will help you cut down on your bills and improve your home’s safety. Better safety can mean fewer...

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In the light of day, no one wants to think about the unimaginable happening. But those are the exact thoughts that keep us up at night: What will happen to my family if something happens to me? How will they survive?...

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If you’re on the fence about renting or owning a home, here’s a helpful look at the upsides of each option. Remember to get the right insurance when you make your choice, so your property is fully protected. The...

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Congratulations on unlocking the door to your very first place! As you step into this new chapter of your life, the thrill of independence is likely intertwining with the responsibilities that come with it. While you'...

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If you want to reduce your risk of traffic accidents and the insurance claims that accompany them - which could cause your premium to go up - you need to drive defensively. Here are some driving tips to help you avoid...

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It seems like every time you almost get to the final purchase screen for your upcoming trip online, someone is there to offer you add-on insurance protection. They sure make it sound critical, don’t they? “Are you sure...

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If you’re house hunting, you’re probably looking at many elements like the number of bedrooms or how updated the kitchen is. Don’t forget to check for these things too, which may help avoid home insurance claims should...

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This certainly isn’t how you planned to spend your day. No one wants to find themselves in any kind of car accident. When a fender bender happens, our nervous systems kick into overdrive. It’s best to know in advance...

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Many insurance carriers today offer smartphone apps that track telematics to monitor driving. Here’s how they work and how these apps may help you lower your auto insurance premium, along with a few other advantages. ...

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The geckos and emus are spending billions of dollars in ad campaigns to sell you their insurance they can bundle, box up, and bill you for in fifteen minutes or less. These campaigns are compelling and entertaining, but...

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Water has been in short supply in many areas of the United States lately. And even if it’s bountiful where you live, you may be paying more for water than you’d like. Here are some tips for using less water and saving...

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Attention all towing companies working in Ohio. As of April 4, 2023, a new law has come into effect that affects the way you operate your business. The Ohio General Assembly has passed House Bill 95, which prohibits...

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Your auto insurance is one of the most important elements of your personal insurance portfolio. But some people purchase only the minimum required liability coverage, not realizing they may be leaving themselves open to...

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The State of Ohio’s new primary offense-distracted driving-is intended to cut down on the number of lives lost due to distracted drivers. In 2020, distracted driving claimed 3,142 lives across the country. That’s nine...

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Whether you’re just getting away for a long weekend or spending a few weeks out of the house, it’s important to ensure your home is safe while you’re gone. Follow these tips to help prevent break-ins, fires, and water...

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As a towing company in today’s difficult labor market, finding new employees with the right skills and experience can be your biggest challenge. OhioMeansJobs is a job matching and workforce development system that...

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Did your special someone surprise you with a gift of jewelry this Valentine's Day? How would feel if that precious piece of jewelry went missing? Jewelry is often a valuable possession that we hold close to our hearts....

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We all know that inflation is on the rise, affecting everything from gas to groceries. But did you know that inflation can also affect your home insurance rates? How much inflation affects your premium depends on...

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It’s an unfortunate fact that life expectancy in the US has dropped recently. This has led many people to examine whether or not they should have a life insurance policy and, if so, how much coverage they should have....

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The FMCSA announced some updates and changes that will impact your operations and compliance. - Safety Measurement System (SMS) would now include an electronic logging device (ELD) violations. If your ELD has the...

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It seems like every day on the news that we hear stories about a hurricane, flood, or wildfire creating massive damage in the U.S. and putting people out of their homes. Have you thought about how your family would...

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You're already paying to borrow a car-so why do they ask you to buy additional insurance when you rent that car? The supplemental liability insurance offered is not just an unnecessary upsell to get more of your money,...

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With the new car market impacted by shipping delays, many people are choosing to buy used cars lately. And some people only purchase a used vehicle because it saves them money and lets the first owner figure out if it’s...

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Having a new puppy join your household can change your life. The snuggles and kisses make getting up in the middle of the night for potty breaks worth it, but in the whirlwind of change, it’s easy to forget some...

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A security camera can help protect your property against intruders or provide evidence in the event of a break-in. But with all the technology available today, it can be tough to figure out which smart security camera...

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We know just how convenient it can be to open a new search window, type “insurance” in the search bar, and click on the highest listing for an insurance giant (or emu or gecko) in your area. So, why do we continue to...

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If you’re looking around for home or auto insurance, you may find the process confusing, especially if you’re new to buying coverage and aren’t familiar with the terminology. Here are five essential things you should...

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You pulled the trigger and finally updated your outdoor space. Now, you and your family are enjoying the fruits of this investment. But what about insurance? Valuable hardscape. Outdoor furniture. An outdoor kitchen....

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Grilling food is a fun pastime, and it’s ideal on those summer days when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen. But every year, there are accidents and home fires because people don’t grill safely. Follow these tips to...

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No one likes the thought of having pests in their home, whether they be rodents, cockroaches, ants, or any other common household pests. If pest activity is common in your area, it is important to take steps to prevent...

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Some of us are really good at preparing for the worst-case scenarios. For this population, keeping an up-to-date home inventory is obvious. Of course, you should know what you have in your house in case of a fire or...

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You've worked hard to create a beautiful garden for your yard, but there is more to yard maintenance than simply mowing the lawn and watering the plants. There are plenty of other tasks you'll need to complete in order...

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Water damage is one of the worst problems that homeowners can run into. Not only can it be incredibly expensive to repair, depending on the extent of the damage, but it can also create the potential for mold and mildew...

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Did you just hang up on your insurance company because they left you on hold again, and that’s the last time you’re going to stay on the line and listen to their automated teller tell you all service providers are busy?...

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The National Safety Council recognizes April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month. This event is intended to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and encourage motorists like you to minimize...

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If you started your business from a room in your basement, you probably have taken a lot of care and time to make sure that your business assets are separate from your personal assets. As you’ve added new assets to your...

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Spring is a common time for people to take on all of the cleaning tasks that they put off during the winter. With the weather getting warmer, it's the perfect time to tackle jobs both inside and outside your home. While...

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Chances are you are a long way from the choices and needs you had when you first left your parents’ house, which means your insurance needs have evolved along the way. As different needs arise-renting a place, buying a...

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Ah, that Empty Nest feeling! For the first time in ages, you’re cooking for two, shopping for two, and paying for two. Now is the time to live it up, right? Go on, celebrate-you’ve successfully launched your brood into...

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You may not give the windows on your home much thought, but they can actually make a big difference not just in your comfort level, but also in the value of your home. You'll have a wide range of options to choose from,...

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Love them or hate them, Electric Vehicles (EV) and Hybrids are only growing in numbers. In 2021, 1.2M EV and Hybrid vehicles were sold in the US, which amounted to roughly 4% of total vehicles sold. While it is still a...

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If you're like most people, you like to keep your home at a comfortable temperature throughout the year. However, running your heater or air conditioner constantly uses a lot of energy, and your electric and gas bills...

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It is that time of year again when OSHA requires employers to submit copies of their OSHA 300A form by April 30th. A couple of items of note for this reminder: This requirement doesn’t apply to employers with 10 or...

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Today's modern appliances are much more energy-efficient than their predecessors, and some are even better than the rest. When shopping for appliances, you'll likely be overwhelmed by choice, so it is important to know...

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As we head into the New Year, I wanted to pass along some timely information that you may find helpful. My video on inflation is the first in a series that I will be sending out periodically to address common hot button...

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In the blink of an eye, another year has come to an end. Ringing in a new year gives us the sense of renewed hope and the opportunity to re-evaluate various aspects of our lives. Many people make resolutions to improve...

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Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential for any home, so you should ensure that your house is equipped with them. You should have detectors in the main living areas on each floor, including in every bedroom...

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No one likes to think about the possibility of a fire in their home, but this is one situation where it definitely pays to be prepared. This is especially true if you have children or pets in your home. Read on to learn...

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Did you know that life insurance can provide more than just the death benefit? Life insurance also has living benefits! A living benefit is one that allows the policy holder to utilize policy cash values and riders...

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In our March 22 blog post, we highlighted the growing problem of catalytic converter theft, and we outlined steps you could take to prevent it from happening to you. Unfortunately, this problem continues to grow. The...

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Solar panels can provide clean electricity for your home, helping you to save money on energy costs while also doing your part to help the environment. However, not all homes are suited to solar energy. Here's what you...

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When it comes to buying insurance, you have two primary options available to you: independent agents like us, and captive agents. While both can provide insurance services, these two types of insurance agents are not...

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More and more people these days are choosing to add dash cams to their vehicles, and for good reason. These small cameras can be highly useful to you, especially in the event that you get a traffic ticket or are...

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Summer is here and people are flocking to the water - whether it’s the beach, a lake, a river or a backyard pool. But, wherever there’s water, there’s also danger. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and...

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In today’s digital world, slander and libel lawsuits are more common than you may think. Comments made in haste or anger on social media can have lasting and far-reaching effects on a person’s reputation or character,...

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Home improvement: It’s a never-ending process for many people, and for those of us who aren’t necessarily handy, it can be a hassle, too. But there are plenty of simple maintenance tasks and other improvements you can...

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Sometimes a basic homeowners policy just isn’t enough. So as your career advances and your income increases, it’s important to keep your insurance protection up to date. This helps you avoid expensive gaps in coverage...

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In a recent article, the New York Times https://www.nytimes.com/2021/02/09/climate/catalytic-converter-theft.html, outlined how Catalytic converters have become the number one targeted part of theft amongst vehicles...

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Shopping online. Visiting the doctor. Buying gas. In nearly all of the things we do from day to day, there’s the risk of identity theft. You could unknowingly give your information to a fraudster thinking you’re...

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The pandemic has caused many people to assess their financial security. With daily mortality statistics flashing across our screens, we are reminded of the fragility of our lives. We are mortal and are one unfortunate...

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If you have a homeowners policy, you probably expect it to cover all the costs of rebuilding your house in case it’s damaged or destroyed by a covered hazard. But are you certain you have enough coverage? Read about two...

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February is celebrated as the month of love. Heart-shaped boxes of candy fill store shelves and bouquets of bright red roses are plentiful. People purchase these gifts to show their loved ones how much they care. There...

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The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers subject to its recordkeeping requirements to post copies of their OSHA Form 300A between February 1 and April 30 of each year. Click HERE for...

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It seems like a no-brainer to leave the lights on outside your home to deter burglars while you’re away (or even while you’re asleep). But does that really work? Or is it just a waste of electricity — particularly this...

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As we ring in the New Year, many of us will re-evaluate our personal and financial goals. There is a renewed energy to improve our health and to address obligations that have been put off for too long! While New Year’s...

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Unless you’re headed to a warmer climate for the winter - or you live in one already - fall is the time to start preparing your RV for winter (as long as you’re done using it for a while, that is). And just because you...

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Over the course of this year, we have discussed how rates for the towing industry have been increasing because the insurance companies have been losing money insuring commercial auto for the last 5+ years. As a result,...

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Fall is a wonderful time - if your home is ready for it. So enjoy the last few weeks of warmer weather, but do a little preventative maintenance while you’re at it. You’ll fix small problems before they become big, and...

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It is important to know how to review and manage your inspection violations as they occur. At times, these violations can be insightful for necessary changes within your organization. However, there are instances that...

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We’re not quite sure where summer went, but if you haven’t noticed, the new school year is upon us. And as you get your kids organized and ready, consider doing the same thing for something else - your home. It won’t...

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There is so much more to protect than "just a cabin". - At Wichert Insurance, we have multiple companies willing to provide you with options to cover you from A to Z. Building or CabinContentsLiabilityRental...

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What would you do without power tools? Well, you’d probably take on fewer home-improvement projects — and probably have a lot more calluses on your hands. Thankfully, you don’t have to do without. But you do have to use...

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As outlined last week, the insurance companies continue to lose money insuring commercial vehicles. For every $1 of premium, the insurers are paying out $1.09 in claims. As a result, your commercial auto rates and...

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It doesn’t take a massive remodel, or a big budget, to make your house feel a little more like home to you. Inside or out, small improvements can make a significant difference - and whether you’re handy or not, you can...

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It doesn’t take a massive remodel, or a big budget, to make your house feel a little more like home to you. Inside or out, small improvements can make a significant difference - and whether you’re handy or not, you can...

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It has been a challenging year, and despite many insurance companies giving “premium holidays” due to the lack of use, the insurance companies continue to lose money. It has been a tough few years for commercial auto...

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Just a few weeks ago, there were changes from the FMCSA due to COVID-19. The FMCSA has granted a three-month waiver from certain pre-employment testing requirements applicable to employers of drivers subject to 49 CFR...

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The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically impacted our communities and businesses. As we reopen our companies, it is crucial to know and understand the new rules and regulations affecting your organization as a result of...

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Last Thursday the USDA released information regarding the issuance of the first Coronavirus Food Assistance Program payments. This federal program assists farmers and ranchers whose operations have been directly...

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Congratulations! After weeks of research, comparing makes and models, and taking test drives you finally bought that brand-new car you wanted. But before you take that well-deserved road trip, check one more item off...

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We find ourselves in unprecedented times and where safety is imperative for everyone within their scope of work and the changes in the work environment. OSHA has released an interim enforcement plan to provide...

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A safe home, a regular routine, a soft bed – the things that bring you comfort bring your pet comfort, too. It’s so important to give some advance thought to how you’d handle your pet responsibilities during and after a...

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In Ohio the State law requires drivers approaching a stationary emergency vehicle displaying flashing lights, including road service vehicles, traveling in the same direction, to vacate the lane closest to if safe and...

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Updates from the FMCSA regarding COVID-19 and National Emergency Declarations The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has made Emergency Declarations to maintain the motor carrier industry and those who have a...

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As business owners, the Corona pandemic is presenting our businesses with unique and unprecedented challenges. As we navigate this crisis and the recent CARES Act, we came across the this document from the U.S. Chamber...

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We live in an interesting and challenging time. As many businesses have been forced to close or significantly reduce their operations, the tow industry continues to roll on. The key to any towing operation are the...

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The short and to the point answer is, "It truly depends."Many factors affect whether a loss has coverage under an insurance program, including the type of loss, the type of coverage, and the terms and conditions of the...

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It has always been the goal of Wichert Insurance to provide Risk Management and Insurance services that go beyond the sale and service of insurance policies. Businesses and individuals face all types of risks that must...

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Carrying a minimum amount of auto insurance is required by state laws, so you can’t legally drive without it. Yet while the minimum amount keeps your premiums lower, it can also put you at great risk if you have an...

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Every year, unintentional carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning (not linked to fires) sends 20,000 people to the emergency room and causes more than 4,000 hospitalizations. And, you might consider them the fortunate ones. CO...

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As you move, your insurance needs often change. However, there is rarely information to help you know if your current coverage is properly protecting you. Not everything in this article may apply to you, but look at...

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Recently highlighted in the December 2019 issue of Safety + Health Magazine from the NSC, the topic of the OSHA General Duty Clause was discussed. https://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/articles/19258-oshas-general-...

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There is a special excitement (and a little nervousness) that comes from moving. Buying a new home should be a wonderful thing. An overall fresh start! However, you may have some concerns. Is it the right timing? Will...

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The purpose of homeowner’s insurance is to protect you financially, give you peace of mind, and provide you with the means to repair or replace your home. Unfortunately for some, the insurance they have secured may not...

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If you’ve ever been stuck on the side of the highway with an RV issue, you know what a life saver roadside assistance can be. Whether you need a battery charged, a tire changed, or a tow you’re often back on the road in...

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The collector car market evolves with each generation. While the Silent Generation started collecting cars, it was Baby Boomers who really got it rolling. They fell in love with the Chevrolet Bel Air, the Ford Mustang,...

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Another significant update to employers that have Commercial Licensed Drivers across the country, the FMCSA has announced the release and registration for the New CDL Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. This online database...

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Fall is here, and there are still plenty of motorcycles on the road. And the key word here is “see.” People driving cars and trucks often fail to notice the motorcyclists around them, partly because they’re not...

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Group riding is a favorite activity among many motorcycle riders. Whether you’re part of a riding club, a social event, a charity ride, or out for a leisurely cruise with friends, group riding can be a rewarding way to...

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In our last Tow blog, we talked about why insurance rates for the towing industry were going up. If you didn't get a chance to read it, you can click Here To Read It. As discussed in our blog, rates are going up for...

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There’s perhaps no organizing task more daunting than the garage-it’s often the dumping ground for the stuff that has no other place in the house, or the things you don’t use but just can’t bring yourself to toss. How...

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How to know what coverage you have and if it is appropriate. - You pay premiums and have an insurance policy for your farm so you are covered in the event of a loss, right? You have coverage on your home, your buildings,...

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With spring in full bloom and summer just on the horizon, prime boating season is upon us. And you might notice more people on the water than ever, because sales of recreational boats have been growing at a steady clip...

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As the owner of a towing company, you have likely noticed your company's insurance rates increasing over the past few years. I'm sure insurance has never been your favorite part of the business, but the rising costs add...

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April 22 marked the 49th annual Earth Day, when more than 1 billion people in nearly 200 countries were expected to take part in what the Earth Day Network calls “the largest civic-focused day of action in the world.”...

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Spring is a time for new beginnings, and cleaning and organization around the house are very popular this time of year. If you’re ready to tackle the monumental spring cleaning chore, read on for some helpful...

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Back in the early days of home security “systems,” around the end of World War I, it was common for homeowners to hire “door shakers”-night watchmen who would literally walk around and check doors to make sure they were...

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Thumb Drives. Helpful or Hazard? Read Karl Demuth’s Blog about these seemingly innocuous devices.

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In the February issue of Building Blocks, Eric Pempus, FAIA, Esq., NCARB, ORSA, reviews the do's and don'ts of Sealing and Stamping Design Professional Documents in Ohio.

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Whether it’s a gift from someone special or a gift to yourself, a new piece of jewelry can bring some sparkle to your life. However, many people who find themselves victimized by burglars—or a fire or some other...

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Drafty windows. Leaky faucets. Dirty air filters. All are common issues in homes across the country, and they’re not just annoying-they also cost you money in decreased energy efficiency and higher bills. The U.S....

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Don't end up on Santa's naughty list. Read the December issue of DesignPro's Building Blocks Newsletter where Eric Prempus, FAIA, ESQ., NCARB, ORSA, discusses Gift Giving Dilemmas.

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You’re not just imagining it—a lot of people are traveling with their pets these days. According to a TripAdvisor survey of more than 1,000 travelers, 53% of those responding said they take their pets on vacation, and...

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Last week you may have noticed that Sears filed bankruptcy with little more than a whisper. Knowing history is important for so many reasons. Those reasons are not to live in the past, but remind us of decisions,...

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Owning a home is usually a great experience. But it can also be a hassle, especially when unexpected issues pop up-whether you have a minor breakdown or a major catastrophe, it’s almost certainly going to require time...

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Online data breaches are just an unfortunate fact of life now-as the New York Times put it, you might as well assume that your personal information has been taken, because cyberattacks happen all the time. That’s why we...

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For many of our neighbors, summer means more than sunshine and vacations. It also means working in the yard – often with tools that can be dangerous if not used properly. Each year about 400,000 people are treated for...

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Is your organization prepared for an active shooter situation? Our September issue of Non-Profit News covers this topic.

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Did you know that hundreds of thousands of people in the United States commute to work by bicycle, according to the U.S. Census Bureau? That’s a lot of cars off the road each day, a lot of gasoline saved and a ton of...

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If you own a boat (or better yet, as the joke goes, you know someone with a boat), you’ve probably thought about spending some evenings on the water - especially in the summertime. It’s a great thought, of course. But,...

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Summer’s almost here. The sun will come out of hiding, and people will, too. As crowds swell at the beach, in parks, and even on roadways, it all makes for some challenging driving conditions. More people are out and...

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As a homeowner, one of the most important aspects of your home isn’t something you use daily. And it isn’t something flashy you show off to friends. It’s your homeowners insurance policy, and it protects you in more...

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You probably don’t think your dog would ever bite someone, let alone cause a serious injury. But dog bites are more common than you might realize-4.5 million occur every year in the U.S., according to the Centers for...

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A ring from a loved one. A bracelet handed down through generations. A watch or necklace marking a special occasion. Every reason you treasure a piece of fine jewelry is a reason it should be insured. However, calling...

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One of the most certain things in life is uncertainty. Your dog could bite the neighbor’s kid. Your teen driver could hit a cyclist. A guest could fall down your stairs. A rainy morning commute on worn-out tires could...

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You’ve heard all the talk about driverless cars - but unfortunately, we’re still years away from living in a world where you just tell your car where to go, kick back and relax with a book (or, more likely, your phone)....

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From building materials to furnishings, many of the things in your home likely aren’t as flame-resistant as those from yesteryear. A fire in a modern home is a “perfect storm,” according to safety consulting and...

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It’s easy to lower your insurance costs - especially if you have a great driving record, or don’t mind having higher deductibles. Who doesn’t want to pay less for car insurance? Billions of dollars are spent on ad...

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As a busy homeowner, it's easy to fall into the trap of pushing off tasks that maintain the long-term value of your home in favor of more pressing problems. That’s OK, to a point, as certain house-cleaning projects...

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Your home protects you from the elements, but heavy rains can weaken that protection. With a little maintenance and a lot of vigilance, it’s not hard to stay safe and dry. Spring rainstorms are a fact of life in many...

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Home improvement: It’s a never-ending process for many people, and for those of us who aren’t necessarily handy, it can be a hassle, too. But there are plenty of simple maintenance tasks and other improvements you can...

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Apartment living can have many advantages: low maintenance, close to work and entertainment, and ease of changing residence. But, if you’re a dog owner, apartment living can present some difficulties. You probably won’t...

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In today’s economy, everyone is pinching pennies. So why worry about umbrella coverage? Shouldn’t a home and auto policy leave you adequately covered?Unfortunately, we live in a world of lawsuits. Large damages can be...

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Talking to Your Teen About Safe Driving When teens begin to drive, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the National Safety Council, the sobering statistics start to pile up:Car...

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You’ve heard all the talk about driverless cars. Yet we’re still years away from living in a world where you can just tell your car where to go and then kick back and relax with a book or your phone. Even still,...

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No matter how safe you are behind the wheel, you’ve probably done things like: Shift into drive while the car is still rolling backward. Ride the brakes on steep hills. Roll into the gas station on empty. Guilty? If so,...

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It seems like a no-brainer to leave the lights on outside your home to deter burglars while you’re away (or even while you’re asleep). But does that really work? Or is it just a waste of electricity — particularly this...

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Technology has made home alarms of all kinds — from security to smoke, radon to radiation — more accessible than ever. Many of them can be configured to work together, and some even alert you to trouble through your...

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It seems everyone these days has a smartphone. Or a smart TV, a tablet, or an ebook reader. Or all of the above – and more. When you add it all up, you may find you have thousands and thousands of dollars tied up in...

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Have you ever noticed that, with roadway anger, it’s always the other guy’s fault? And, it very well could be. The thing is, you can’t control how other people drive. But, you can control how you respond to situations...

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When the sun is out and the weather’s warm, people flock to the water — whether it’s the beach, a lake, a river or a backyard pool. But, wherever there’s water, there’s also danger. According to the U.S. Centers for...

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The family summer vacation is a time-honored tradition, and it often includes a trip to one of our country’s incredible amusement parks. But, while the rides and other attractions at these parks are typically safe, it...

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Spring has arrived, which means it’s time to clean the cobwebs out of the corners, organize the closets and so forth. While you’re at it, don’t forget to revisit the important documents and other items you have in your...

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A fire is a fire, and a fire extinguisher is a fire extinguisher, right? Well, not quite. There are actually different types of fires and different types of extinguishers that respond best to each one. So, which is...

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It’s just rain — how much impact can it really have on your driving? The answer: a lot. You’re likely to experience lower visibility, reduced traction and increased difficulty in handling your car both during and after...

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What’s the most important number for you this tax season? The amount of your refund? The amount you owe? The number of hours spent poring over all the other numbers? All of those are pretty important, but none of them...

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Freezing temperatures, gusts of wind, patches of ice – winter can be a horrible time to be on the road, especially if you’re on vacation and aren’t used to driving in winter conditions. And, it’s an even worse time to...

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About 2 million times every year, animals and cars collide on U.S. roadways — often causing serious and even fatal injuries to drivers and passengers, along with about $1 billion in damage, according to the U.S....

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It's not unusual, when you set out on that holiday trip, to look back at the house a little nervously. Sure, you remembered to lock the doors, but just how secure are things? What might happen while you're away?One way...

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It's become almost as much a part of Thanksgiving as turkey and football: Black Friday, the morning-after (or in some cases evening-after) shopping spree. It's the biggest shopping day of the year, an event in its own...

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Fall brings more than just changing leaves and shorter days. In many areas, it also comes with a shift in weather conditions that can have a serious impact on your home. And, don’t forget, winter is right around the...

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It's back-to-school time, and, if you have school-age children, your household is likely bustling with activity and filling up with books and backpacks. There are other households and school districts in your community,...

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Two thirds of households in America have air conditioners, according to the U.S. Department of Energy — and they spend a total of $11 billion each year running them. Our guess is that most of those households (which may...

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Spring is a time for rejuvenation, and, as the weather gets warmer here in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, and the days grow longer, there's a positive energy in the air. Many people decide it's the perfect time for reorganizing...

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