Love your Daddy! This Sun, Jun 18, 2023, is Father’s Day!

Posted on June 16, 2023May 30, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

HISTORY.COM | MAY 15, 2023 | Father’s Day | Recreational Insurance | Start a Quote Today!

The nation’s first Father’s Day was celebrated on June 19, 1910, in the state of Washington. However, it was not until 1972—58 years after President Woodrow Wilson made Mother’s Day official—that the day honoring fathers became a nationwide holiday in the United States. Father’s Day 2023 will occur on Sunday, June 18.

Mother’s Day: Inspiration for Father’s Day

The “Mother’s Day” we celebrate today has its origins in the peace-and-reconciliation campaigns of the post-Civil War era. During the 1860s, at the urging of activist Ann Reeves Jarvis, one divided West Virginia town celebrated “Mother’s Work Days” which brought together the mothers of Confederate and Union soldiers.

Did you know? There are more than 70 million fathers in the United States.

However, Mother’s Day did not become a commercial holiday until 1908, when–inspired by Jarvis’s daughter, Anna Jarvis, who wanted to honor her own mother by making Mother’s Day a national holiday–the John Wanamaker department store in Philadelphia sponsored a service dedicated to mothers in its auditorium.

Thanks in large part to this association with retailers, who saw great potential for profit in the holiday, Mother’s Day caught on right away. In 1909, 45 states observed the day, and in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson approved a resolution that made the second Sunday in May a holiday in honor of “that tender, gentle army, the mothers of America.”

FEATURED

Why the Founder of Mother’s Day Turned Against It

Anna Jarvis, who founded Mother’s Day in 1908, passionately opposed its growing commercialization and eventually campaigned against the holiday.

Origins of Father’s Day

The campaign to celebrate the nation’s fathers did not meet with the same enthusiasm–perhaps because, as one florist explained, “fathers haven’t the same sentimental appeal that mothers have.”

On July 5, 1908, a West Virginia church sponsored the nation’s first event explicitly in honor of fathers, a Sunday sermon in memory of the 362 men who had died in the previous December’s explosions at the Fairmont Coal Company mines in Monongah, but it was a one-time commemoration and not an annual holiday.

The next year, a Spokane, Washington, woman named Sonora Smart Dodd, one of six children raised by a widower, tried to establish an official equivalent to Mother’s Day for male parents. She went to local churches, the YMCA, shopkeepers and government officials to drum up support for her idea, and she was successful: Washington State celebrated the nation’s first statewide Father’s Day on June 19, 1910.

Slowly, the holiday spread. In 1916, President Wilson honored the day by using telegraph signals to unfurl a flag in Spokane when he pressed a button in Washington, D.C. In 1924, President Calvin Coolidge urged state governments to observe Father’s Day.

Today, the day honoring fathers is celebrated in the United States on the third Sunday of June: Father’s Day 2021 occurs on June 20.

In other countries–especially in Europe and Latin America–fathers are honored on St. Joseph’s Day, a traditional Catholic holiday that falls on March 19.

Click here to enjoy a fascinating video of several Founding Fathers

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Beautiful Heirlooms & The Dumpster

Posted on June 15, 2023June 5, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

“We can’t use these. They look like heirlooms!” Gina, a guest at my holiday gathering, holds up one of the elaborately embroidered napkins from the buffet table I got out of the dumpster. “Where’d you get them?”

“Out of the dumpster. The tablecloth and those candleholders were in there, too.”

“You can’t be serious! Why would they be in a dumpster?” The shock in her voice carried across the room, and others looked up.

It’s common that women ask where something came from, especially if it’s an attractive article of clothing or new addition to the house. But to name a dumpster as the source of anything, especially an object of beauty, is completely unexpected.

My explanation created an atmosphere of mystery. The tale was so unlikely that later my friends joked that perhaps I’d dreamed it.

The red napkin, tablecloth, and candlesticks all belonged to Mrs. Cybulski (not her real name), a widow who had lived down the street as long as I’d been in the neighborhood, about twenty years.

Except to water her yard, she didn’t go out much. And when she did, she stayed near the house, as if the tether fastening her to life had retracted, pulling her toward an eternal home.

One day, I noticed a full-size dumpster in front of her bungalow. I assumed it was for yard debris or trash from some renovation project. But soon strangers appeared. On my daily walk, I could see them scurrying around the property. A boy about twelve sat on the porch, looking morose. His expression evoked a twinge of anxiety in me that perhaps Mrs. Cy had died.

I called over haltingly, “Is she gone?”

“Yeah, she passed.” It was hard to tell whether he was upset at losing kin or just sulky at having to help with an unpleasant task.

Through the large plate glass window I could see a woman balancing stemware between her fingers. A man about forty emerged from the back door, his arms piled high with what appeared to be bedding. I waited nearby to see if he was really going to deposit it in the dumpster.

Reluctant to intrude yet curious, I introduced myself. “Hi, I’m Meredith, a neighbor down the street. Sorry to hear about Mrs. Cybulski. Was she your grandmother?”

“Great aunt. Ninety-one. Had a good life,” he said and proceeded towards the dumpster, our conversation apparently over. He placed the neatly folded sheets and blankets down carefully as if this were now the room in which they would be kept. I’d seen dumpsters full of discards of all kinds, but never one like this packed like a trunk for an ocean voyage.

I stood fixed on the spot, bewildered by the odd juxtaposition of sudden death and business-like calm. The nephew soon appeared with the next batch, which he stacked on top of the previous one in the same perfunctory manner. Considering his lack of feeling, I figured I could peer into the dumpster without offending anyone. A wooden daybed, surrounded by perfectly decent household items, was pushed up against one side as if, at any moment, someone was going to recline there with a book for an afternoon read.

I dislike seeing things go to waste and the daybed was just the ticket for my guestroom; the old upholstery could easily be replaced. But asking to save something from the newly departed seemed crude. Was this merely social propriety, or a primordial instinct out of which taboos arise? If the nephew wasn’t especially grieved by his aunt’s death, perhaps he wouldn’t be upset by my request to salvage a motley piece of furniture. Hesitantly, I ventured, “I wonder if I could offer to purchase that daybed from you if you’re planning to get rid of it?”

The Dumpster

“No, but take it. You can have it.” He marched past me without looking, without missing a beat. And I walked inside my first dumpster.

I’ve been to archaeological sites, and know the sun-bleached whiteness of bone, and the tea-colored stains left by the earth. Here, no layers of soil obscured the find. To get to the daybed, I had only to move the piles of bedding. Her hall closet must now be empty, for here were ironed sheets, blankets, table linen, and the kind of embroidered and crocheted cloths that are found in old women’s attics. When I saw these, my own mourning resumed.

Evenings at my grandmother’s had been spent with the two of us huddled together on the divan, working needles of colored thread through squares of muslin, as she taught me how to give shape to the birds and flowers we ironed onto future kitchen towels. The few I have left are like gold to me. My grandmother and Mrs. Cy were of the same generation.

When our grandparents died, my brother and I had to deal with their belongings. It was the late ’70s, a time when the perennial battle between spirit and matter was once again inflamed. Caving into the pressure not to be attached to things or hold onto the past, we gave away too much and sold the rest for a song. Objects imbued with our ancestors’ mana slipped through our fingers, going to strangers who cared not for their spirit but only their matter.

Into the dumpster were going similar artifacts of a lifetime. I didn’t know Mrs. Cy well but this desecration had to stop. I had recently taken a religious vow of voluntary simplicity and was deeply committed to reducing my over-consumption by keeping existing goods in circulation and tending them with care. I could not stand by and watch while usable things went to molder in a landfill. The nephew was headed in my direction with another load and I decided to press my luck.

“Are these linens and bedding going too? I would be glad to give you something for them as well.” I pointed to a stack at the foot of the daybed.

“Oh, I guess you can have them. But I would make sure they get laundered.”

Was it her death that contaminated them, or her life? Trying not to sound snide, I assured him I would wash everything, and began stacking the linens atop the daybed. Among them was an old-fashioned lace coverlet, a fine damask tablecloth with a dozen matching napkins in their original box, and pure cotton sheets with laundry tags at the corners. Laundering did not seem to be the issue.

Click here to read the full story at the DailyGood.org

What is the value of having recreational insurance in Michigan?

Posted on June 15, 2023June 21, 2023 by admin

Shield Blog | Recreational Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

Living in the state of Michigan can come with a lot of amenities. One of the benefits that come with living here is that you can enjoy many local parks and other attractions. If you are going to move here, investing in a recreational vehicle can be a great option as it can be very fun to use. When you are looking for a recreational vehicle, getting recreational insurance for it is quite important.

This type of coverage can come with many forms of coverage which makes it quite valuable:

Cover the Vehicle

A reason to get a recreational insurance plan is so you can cover the vehicle. When you are going to get a recreational vehicle, you will find that it can cost a lot of money to purchase and maintain. Because of this investment, you will want to protect your asset and ensure it is always covered. With a recreational insurance plan, you will get support to replace or repair your asset.

Reduce Liability Risks

It can also be a good idea to get recreational insurance so you can reduce your liability risks. There is always a chance you can be found liable for an accident when using a recreational vehicle. If you have a full recreational insurance plan, you will get support to cover any damages that you have incurred.

Reach Out To Us

Having recreational insurance continues to be a necessity for those that are in Michigan. When you are looking for one of these plans here, it would be a great idea to call our team with the Shield Insurance Agency. If you do call us with the Shield Insurance Agency, you can receive top support to ensure you are able to make an informed decision and properly protect your recreational asset.

Manufactured Home Insurance for you and the Family

Posted on June 14, 2023June 5, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Manufactured Home Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

Mobile homes, also known as manufactured homes, are a popular housing option for many families. They offer affordability, flexibility, and the ability to move from one location to another. However, just like any other type of home, mobile homes need to be protected with insurance. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about mobile home insurance, including how to find the best mobile home insurance near you, how to get a mobile home insurance quote, and what to look for in a policy.

Mobile or Manufactured Home Insurance

Manufactured mobile home insurance is a type of insurance policy that is specifically designed to protect mobile homes. It covers a range of risks, including damage to the home, personal property, and liability. Mobile home insurance policies can vary depending on the insurance company and the state you live in. However, most policies cover the following:

Damage to the home: This includes damage caused by fire, wind, hail, lightning, and other natural disasters.
Personal property: This includes your personal belongings, such as furniture, appliances, and electronics.
Liability: This covers you in case someone is injured on your property or if you accidentally damage someone else’s property.

Best Mobile or Manufactured Home Insurance Near Me

When it comes to finding the best mobile home insurance near you, there are a few things to consider. First, you want to make sure that the insurance company you choose has experience with mobile homes. Mobile homes have unique risks and requirements, so it’s important to work with an insurance company that understands these factors.

Second, you want to look for an insurance company that offers affordable rates. Mobile home insurance can be expensive, so it’s important to shop around and compare rates from different companies. You can also look for discounts, such as bundling your home and auto insurance policies.

Finally, you want to make sure that the insurance company you choose offers good customer service. You want to work with an insurance company that is responsive, helpful, and easy to work with.

Manufactured Home Insurance Quote

Getting a mobile home insurance quote is easy. You can contact an insurance company directly or use an online quote tool. When getting a quote, you will need to provide information about your mobile home, such as its age, size, and location. You will also need to provide information about your personal property and any additional coverage you may need.

Deductible

A deductible is the amount of money you pay out of pocket before your insurance policy kicks in. For example, if you have a $1,000 deductible and your home is damaged in a storm that causes $5,000 in damage, you will need to pay $1,000 out of pocket and your insurance company will cover the remaining $4,000.

When choosing a deductible, you want to find a balance between affordability and protection. A higher deductible will lower your monthly premiums, but it will also mean that you will need to pay more out of pocket if you need to file a claim.

Affordable

Mobile home insurance can be expensive, but there are ways to make it more affordable. One way is to bundle your home and auto insurance policies. Many insurance companies offer discounts for bundling, which can help you save money on both policies.

Another way to save money on mobile home insurance is to increase your deductible. A higher deductible will lower your monthly premiums, but it will also mean that you will need to pay more out of pocket if you need to file a claim.

Protection

Mobile home insurance is important because it provides protection for your home, personal property, and liability. Without insurance, you could be responsible for paying for damages and injuries out of pocket. Mobile home insurance gives you peace of mind knowing that you are protected in case something unexpected happens.

Family

Mobile homes are often a popular housing option for families. Mobile home insurance is important for protecting your family and your home. It provides coverage for a range of risks, including damage to the home, personal property, and liability. With mobile home insurance, you can rest easy knowing that your family and your home are protected.

Shield Insurance Agency Represents Over 40 Insurance Companies

At Shield Insurance Agency, we represent over 40 insurance companies, which means we can help you find the best mobile home insurance policy for your needs and budget. We have experience working with mobile homes and can help you navigate the unique risks and requirements of mobile home insurance.

Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon.

In conclusion, mobile home insurance is an important investment for protecting your home, personal property, and liability. When looking for the best mobile home insurance near you, consider factors such as experience, affordability, and customer service. Don’t forget to get a mobile home insurance quote and choose a deductible that balances affordability and protection. With the right mobile home insurance policy, you can have peace of mind knowing you are insured.

The Hidden Joy of Waiting In Line

Posted on June 13, 2023June 5, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

DailyGood.org | BY CAROLYN GREGOIRE | May 31, 2023 | Waiting In Line | Free No Line Insurance Quote

Americans spend an estimated 37 billion hours waiting in line each year, much to our individual and collective distaste. Few things inspire as much universal frustration and ire as long queues and lengthy wait times — many of us even struggle to wait for a sluggish web browser to load.

In fact, according to computer scientist Ramesh Sitaraman, Internet users may be a particularly impatient bunch. His research has found that we’re willing to be patient, on average, for two seconds while waiting for an online video to load.

“After five seconds, the abandonment rate is 25 percent,” Sitaraman told the Boston Globe. “When you get to 10 seconds, half are gone.”

We Hate Waiting In Line

We want it all, and we want it now — which is why we’ve created apps to zap as much wait time as humanly possible from mundane daily tasks like food delivery, transportation, and paying bills (and even arenas of greater import, like dating). We devour articles with time-saving “life hacks” to shave 30 seconds here and five minutes there off of the day’s drudgery.

So why do we dislike waiting in line so much?

According to M.I.T. operations researcher and line expert Richard Larson, occupied time feels shorter than unoccupied time, so when we’re standing in a long line or in a doctor’s office waiting room, the time does feel as if it’s dragging on. Waiting can provoke impatience, stress, and anxiety, and in turn, anxiety also makes waits seem longer.

“The dominant cost of waiting is an emotional one: stress, boredom, that nagging sensation that one’s life is slipping away,” Alex Stone wrote in the New York Times in 2012.

But while waiting in line may be, to some extent, innately annoying, there’s no question that our lifestyles of constant busyness, multitasking, and information overload have made it even more difficult for us to tolerate idle time. And of course, mobile devices and wifi have made it possible to avoid idle time almost altogether. We’ve become accustomed to instant gratification, and any less-than-stimulating situation invites us to immediately whip out our phones in order to keep our brains occupied. This need for instant gratification and loss of patience is indeed a negative side effect of hyperconnectivity, according to Pew Center research.

Most of us would like to have more peace and stillness in our lives, and yet we don’t make use of life’s many daily opportunities to just be still and practice patience. No opportunity is better than when we’re waiting — when we so often whip out our phones and busy ourselves with texts, emails, Candy Crush, Spotify, or Twitter. But what if we welcomed these idle, luxuriously long in-between moments as opportunities to simply wait?

In Japanese, there is a concept known as ma, which refers to a gap, pause, or negative space between things. The term is generally used in the context of the Zen aesthetic, but it’s also a useful construct when it comes to how we think of spending our time. We can use life’s inevitable waiting periods as moments of ma — ways to create still points in our constantly turning worlds.

Next time you find yourself waiting in line, try making your wait a little more mindful and see how it makes you feel. Once the twitch of your hand reaching down for your phone has stopped, you might actually enjoy a moment of relaxation.

**Here are nine things to do while you’re waiting in line that doesn’t involve mindlessly checking your phone:**

Smile at a stranger
Practice a “sights and sounds” meditation, clearing your thoughts and simply directing your full awareness of the visual and auditory stimuli in your present environment.
Let someone who’s in a rush cut in front of you.
Make a mental list of things you’re grateful for.
Take some deep breaths.
Silently repeat a mantra for an inner piece.
Daydream.
Send a kind thought to someone you love.
Read a book

Click here for the full story…

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Motorcycle Insurance and the Breeze of the Open Road

Posted on June 12, 2023June 5, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | Motorcycle Insurance | Start a Quote Today!

Riding a motorcycle can be an exhilarating experience, but it also comes with its own set of risks. That’s why it’s important to have the right motorcycle insurance to protect yourself, your bike, and your family. But with so many options out there, how do you find the best and cheapest motorcycle insurance near you?

The Importance of Motorcycle Insurance

First, let’s talk about what motorcycle insurance is and why it’s important. Motor bike insurance is a type of insurance that provides financial protection in case of an accident, theft, or damage to your motorcycle. It can also cover medical expenses and liability if you’re at fault in an accident.

The best motorcycle insurance is one that provides adequate coverage at an affordable price. But finding the right insurance can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the different types of coverage and deductibles.

Motorcycle Insurance Agency Near You

That’s where a motorcycle insurance agent near you can help. An agent can guide you through the process of selecting the right coverage for your needs and budget. They can also help you understand the different deductibles and how they affect your premium.

At Shield Insurance Agency, we represent over 40 insurance companies, which means we can find the best motorcycle insurance for you at the most affordable price. Our agents are knowledgeable and experienced in motorcycle insurance, and we’re committed to providing our clients with the best possible protection for their family and their bike.

When it comes to selecting the right coverage, there are a few things to consider. First, you’ll want to make sure you have enough liability coverage to protect yourself in case of an accident. Liability coverage pays for damages and injuries you cause to others in an accident.

You’ll also want to consider collision and comprehensive coverage. Collision coverage pays for damages to your motorcycle if you’re in an accident, while comprehensive coverage covers theft, vandalism, and other non-collision incidents.

Another important factor to consider is the deductible. The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. A higher deductible can lower your premium, but it also means you’ll have to pay more out of pocket if you’re in an accident.

At Shield Insurance Agency, we can help you find the right balance between coverage and deductible to ensure you have the best motorcycle insurance for your needs and budget.

But motorcycle insurance isn’t just about protecting your bike. It’s also about protecting your family. If you’re in an accident and unable to work, disability coverage can provide financial support for you and your family. And if you’re injured in an accident, medical payments coverage can help cover your medical expenses.

At Shield Insurance Agency, we understand the importance of protecting your family. That’s why we offer a range of coverage options to ensure you have the protection you need.

So if you’re looking for the best and cheapest motorcycle insurance near you, look no further than Shield Insurance Agency. Contact us at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon. We’re committed to providing our clients with the best possible protection for their family and their bike.

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Farm Insurance: A Solid Investment

Posted on June 9, 2023May 20, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Farm Insurance | Start a Quote here!

As a farmer, you know that your livelihood depends on the health and well-being of your farm
animals and crops. You also know that unexpected events can happen at any time, from natural
disasters to accidents. That’s why it’s important to have farm insurance to protect your
investment and ensure that your farm can continue to thrive.

Farm Insurance will protect farm assets

Farm insurance is a type of insurance that is specifically designed to protect farmers and their
assets. It covers a wide range of risks, including damage to crops, livestock, and equipment, as
well as liability for accidents that occur on the farm. With the right farm insurance policy, you can
have peace of mind knowing that your farm is protected against unexpected events.
If you’re looking for farm insurance, you may be wondering where to start. One option is to get a
farm insurance quote from a local insurance agent. An insurance agent near you can
help you understand your options and find the right policy for your needs.

At Shield Insurance Agency, we represent over 40 insurance companies, including many that
specialize in farm insurance. Our experienced agents can help you find the right policy to
protect your farm and your family. Whether you need coverage for your farm animals, crops, or
equipment, we can help you find the right policy at a price you can afford.

One of the benefits of working with Shield Insurance Agency is that we have experience working with farm families and understand the unique risks and challenges that farmers face. We can help you find a policy that meets your specific needs and provides the coverage you need to protect your farm and your family.
When you work with Shield Insurance Agency, you can also take advantage of our local
expertise. We are based in Michigan and have been serving the community for over 30 years.
We understand the local farming industry and can help you navigate the complex world of farm
insurance.

If you’re looking for farm insurance near you, contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616)
896-4600 for a free quote today. We can help you find the right policy to protect your farm and
your family, so you can focus on what you do best – growing healthy crops and raising healthy
animals.

Farm Liability Insurance

In addition to protecting your farm, farm insurance can also provide liability coverage for
accidents that occur on your property. This can include coverage for injuries to visitors, as well
as damage to their property. With liability coverage, you can have peace of mind knowing that
you are protected against unexpected events that can occur on your farm.

Another important aspect of farm insurance is coverage for your equipment. Farm equipment
can be expensive to repair or replace, and without the right coverage, a single accident can be
devastating. With equipment coverage, you can have peace of mind knowing that your tractors,
combines, and other equipments are protected against damage or theft.

Finally, farm insurance can also provide coverage for your crops. Crop insurance can protect
you against losses due to weather events, pests, and other factors that can impact your harvest.
With crop insurance, you can have peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected
against unexpected events.

In conclusion, if you’re a farmer, it’s important to have farm insurance to protect your investment
and ensure that your farm can continue to thrive. Whether you need coverage for your farm
animals, crops, or equipment, Shield Insurance Agency can help you find the right policy at a
price you can afford. Contact us today at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote and to learn more
about how we can help you protect your farm and your family.

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Shark Attack App Uses AI to Forecast and Detect Risk for Swimmers at 89% Accuracy

Posted on June 8, 2023May 20, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

A sophisticated app generates shark attack “forecasts” using artificial intelligence.

GoodNewsNetwork.org | By Andy Corbley | May 19, 2023 | Shark Attack | Boat Insurance

The developers are taking advantage of a deep learning algorithm to compartmentalize over a hundred years of shark attack data to create a sort-of weather forecast for beaches around the US with an 89% accuracy.

Called SafeWaters.AI, they hope not only to save lives—their primary objective—but to help reduce the persecution of sharks in response to attacks on humans.

Shark Attack Risks

The risk of shark attack is about 1 in every 3.7 million swimmers, and 60% (28) of all recorded shark attacks in the US have occurred in Florida.

As the developers point out, most consumers of news regarding AI see it employed for aspects that seem frightening or purely futuristic, such as deep fake video creation or self-driving cars.

But the ability of a targeted AI to parse out trends and forces in mountains of data lends it to working with all manner of unique applications. In this case, over a hundred years of shark attack reports are analyzed, with data points being whether it was a swimmer or surfer, where the victim was swimming, what time of day it was, what the marine weather conditions were like, and even whether they were wearing shiny jewelry.

credit SafeWaters AI

In an era where artificial intelligence is progressively transforming our daily lives, a groundbreaking app, SafeWatersAI, has arrived. This innovative application, which has recently launched its crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter, revolutionizes our interaction with marine environments. SafeWaters forecasts the risk of shark attacks with an impressive 89% accuracy rate. You can say it’s like a weather app, for sharkiness.

All of this contributes to the total percentage risk displayed on the app.

Currently, the project is being crowdfunded, with 5% of all future sales to be donated to ocean cleanup efforts.

Click here to read the full article and see some great photos…

Dental Insurance: Protecting Your Smile and Your Wallet

Posted on June 7, 2023May 20, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Dental Insurance | Start a Quote Today!

Dental care is an essential part of maintaining good overall health. Regular check-ups, cleanings, and treatments can prevent serious dental problems and keep your teeth and gums healthy. However, dental care can be expensive, especially if you have a family or need extensive treatments like dentures. That’s where dental insurance comes in. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of dental insurance, how it works, and why you should consider getting it for yourself and your family.

What is Dental Insurance?

Dental insurance is a type of health insurance that covers the cost of dental care. It typically includes preventive care like check-ups and cleanings, as well as treatments like fillings, root canals, and extractions. Some plans also cover orthodontic treatments like braces and Invisalign, and cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening. Dental insurance works by paying a portion of the cost of dental care, usually a percentage of the total bill. The amount of coverage and the cost of the plan depend on the insurance company and the specific plan you choose.

Why You Need Dental Insurance

Dental care can be expensive, especially if you need extensive treatments like root canals or dentures. Without insurance, you may have to pay out of pocket for these treatments, which can be a significant financial burden. Dental insurance can help you save money on dental care by covering a portion of the cost. It can also help you budget for dental expenses by providing predictable costs and reducing the risk of unexpected bills.

Dental insurance is especially important if you have a family. Children need regular dental check-ups and cleanings to prevent cavities and other dental problems. They may also need orthodontic treatments like braces, which can be expensive without insurance. Dental insurance can help you provide your family with the dental care they need without breaking the bank.

How Dental Insurance Works

Dental insurance works differently than traditional health insurance. Instead of paying for medical expenses after they occur, dental insurance typically pays for preventive care upfront and covers a portion of the cost of treatments. Most dental insurance plans have a deductible, which is the amount you have to pay out of pocket before the insurance kicks in. Once you meet your deductible, the insurance will pay a percentage of the cost of dental care, usually between 50% and 80%. You will be responsible for the remaining balance.

Some dental insurance plans have annual maximums, which is the maximum amount the insurance will pay for dental care in a year. If you exceed the annual maximum, you will be responsible for the remaining balance. Other plans have waiting periods, which is the amount of time you have to wait before the insurance will cover certain treatments. For example, a plan may have a six-month waiting period for orthodontic treatments.

Choosing the Right Plan

Choosing the right dental insurance plan can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with the terminology and options. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can help you find the right plan for your needs and budget. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a dental insurance plan:

– Coverage: Make sure the plan covers the dental care you need, including preventive care, treatments, and orthodontics if necessary.

– Cost: Consider the monthly premium, deductible, and copays to determine the total cost of the plan.

– Network: Check if your dentist is in the plan’s network to avoid out-of-network fees.

– Annual maximum: Make sure the plan’s annual maximum is sufficient for your needs.

– Waiting periods: Consider the waiting periods for certain treatments if you need them in the near future.

Protect Your Smile and Your Wallet with Dental Insurance

Dental care is essential for maintaining good overall health, but it can be expensive without insurance. Dental insurance can help you save money on dental care and provide your family with the dental care they need. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can help you find the right dental insurance plan for your needs and budget. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today and protect your smile and your wallet.

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These Breeds Were Named ‘America’s Most Spoiled Dogs’ in a New Poll

Posted on June 6, 2023May 20, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Good News Network | May 14, 2023 | Spoiled Dogs | Pet Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

Do you own an Australian Shepard, Border Collie, or Corgi? According to a new poll, you might just own America’s most spoiled dog.

A full sixty percent of the 2,000 dog owners surveyed swear that they own the “world’s most spoiled dog”. One common link: two-thirds of them are talking about a herding dog, like the three named above.

2nd Most Spoiled Dogs

Non-sporting dogs like Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and Shiba Inus came in second place for the nation’s most luxuriated breeds, earning 64% of the vote. In third place, 59% are terrier breeds like Russell terriers, Scottish Terriers, and Staffordshire Terriers.

Similarly, 79% of herding dog owners claimed their dogs live like royalty at home. An overwhelming majority (96%) said they spoil their pets in a wide variety of ways and 37% treat their dogs so well, they’d take the chance to switch bodies with their pups for a day if they could.

When asked what they would do for that day, respondents said they’d play all day long (47%), sleep in until noon (42%), and sleep where they usually wouldn’t be allowed to (37%).

People’s penchant for giving their dogs a life of luxury can be explained by four in five who treat and talk to their dogs as if they were humans. Many speak to them as if they were children (32%), and others speak as if they were babies or adults (18% for each). Many dogs get treated to meals being prepared by hand in the kitchen.

Commissioned by Solid Gold and conducted by OnePoll, the random double-opt-in survey found two-thirds of terrier owners love giving their dogs extra treats throughout the day, while 29% of toy breed owners love to serve their pups the finest bottled or filtered water in their bowl.

A third of women (32%) admit they likely treat their dogs more luxuriously than themselves, and another third treat them better than their kids and significant others (16%).

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