Steps to Keep Your Family Safe in an Emergency
Most preparations involve thought, time and effort—not money. Keeping connected is key.
At 7:02 p.m. July 8, 2014, a tornado with winds gusting to 135 mph ambushed the town of Smithfield. The storm left four dead—including one infant—and a community stunned.
Smithfield, you see, isn’t in Tornado Alley or even in the Great Plains. It’s in central New York state. “We don’t get tornadoes in New York, right? Anyone will tell you that,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo told reporters the next day. “Well, we do now.”
Natural disasters are always traumatic. But climate change, abetted by our own activity, is making the unexpected and the extreme ever more likely. Catastrophic floods happen more often: Three, for instance, hit the St. Louis region between 2015 and 2019. Wildfires have burned an average of 7 million acres per year since 2000, more than double the rate in the 1990s. In February, record cold in Texas set off a cascading crisis of electrical outages, burst pipes, and flooded homes.
“It’s not like we’re seeing new types of disasters, but we’re seeing them in places we’re not used to, and with more intensity,” says Jeff Schlegelmilch, director of the National Center for Disaster Preparedness at Columbia University’s Earth Institute. “It’s the same concerns, amped up.”
The good news? If calamity touches your family or home, a little preparation can make a huge difference—potentially saving money, treasured possessions, and even lives.
So we asked a few dozen experts and survivors for advice on building disaster resilience. As it happens, most of their tips call for a modest investment of money or time. “You don’t have to be a doomsday prepper,” says Brenda Muhammad, executive director of Focusing Our Resources for Community Enlightenment (FORCE), a Syracuse, N.Y., not-for-profit that teaches emergency skills. “But be your own first responder.”
Have Multiple Modes of Communication
• Enter key contacts into all phones. Give household members paper contact lists, too.
• Tap someone outside your area to be an emergency communication hub.
• When power is out, a backup battery for a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) line can extend its run time and allow for emergency calls; copper landlines generally work in an outage.
• In a crisis, text rather than call. Texts are more likely to connect than calls because they use far less bandwidth. And turn on one device at a time to conserve power.
• Access social networks to tap community resources.
• A ham radio, if available, is another good resource, experts say.
Hone Your Family’s Emergency Plan
• Store “go bags” and emergency kits where they’re easy to grab.
• Save directions to local shelters; check rules for social distancing and pets.
• Run drills at least annually: entering a safe room, evacuating, packing the car, and meeting outside the home when separated. (Scout at least two alternative, easy-to-reach places.) With kids, turn drills into games. Reward pets with treats.
Insure Your Home and Belongings Properly
• Get replacement-cost homeowners insurance, which covers rebuilding your home and replacing its contents. Make sure it covers building-code changes. Consider buying an inflation-guard clause for materials and labor.
• Choose a higher deductible to lower your premium. But then save for that expense in the event of a claim. (
• Store a video inventory of your home’s contents in the cloud, and on a thumb drive to keep with you. Do the same with documents such as birth certificates, passports, insurance policies, and tax forms—and cherished photos.
Connect With Your Community
• Talk to neighbors about resources, such as firewood and tools, that can easily be shared or swapped.
• Find out who in your neighborhood can perform CPR and first aid. Or, better—or get trained yourself online or in person.
• Get involved with a community emergency response team, or CERT, of residents trained to prepare, aid, and equip neighbors to deal with emergencies.
SOURCE: ConsumerReports.com
A Fresh and Flavorful Twist on Classic Quesadillas!
Out with the Old, In with the Organized!
Recipe of the Month: Tuscan Butter Salmon
Springing Forward: Love It or Loathe It? Ah, daylight saving time—it’s that annual event where we all collectively grumble about losing an hour of sleep but secretly love the extra evening sunshine. March rolls in, and suddenly, our days feel longer (even if our mornings feel a little rougher). But why do we even mess with the clocks in the first place? And is this whole time shift actually doing us any favors? Let’s dive into the quirks, perks, and questionable logic behind daylight saving time! A Brief History of Daylight Saving Time The idea of daylight saving time isn’t new. It dates back to the early 20th century, when countries like Germany and the United Kingdom implemented it during World War I to conserve fuel. The idea was simple: by shifting the clocks forward in the spring, people would make better use of natural daylight during the evening hours, reducing the need for artificial lighting. In the U.S., daylight saving time became widespread during World War II and was formalized with the Uniform Time Act of 1966. While the specifics of when and how DST is observed can vary from country to country, the concept remains the same: adjust the clocks to maximize daylight during the warmer months. The Science Behind the Shift Daylight saving time operates on a fairly simple principle: moving the clocks forward by one hour in the spring and setting them back in the fall allows us to "gain" more daylight during the evening. This shift is based on the Earth’s tilt and the way it orbits the Sun. In the spring, the days get longer as we approach the summer solstice, so DST aligns with the natural increase in daylight. It helps ensure that more of that daylight falls during the hours we are awake and active, providing more opportunities for outdoor activities after work or school. Benefits of Daylight Saving Time While the initial transition to DST can disrupt our sleep patterns, research suggests that the long-term benefits are significant: More Daylight for Outdoor Activities The most obvious benefit is the extended daylight hours. After months of shorter days, having more sunlight in the evening can lead to increased physical activity. People tend to spend more time outdoors, walking, biking, or participating in sports, which can boost physical health and mood. Increased Energy Efficiency By reducing the need for artificial lighting, DST has the potential to reduce energy consumption. Though modern energy consumption patterns have changed, with more people using energy-efficient lighting and digital devices, the shift still has a measurable impact, particularly in regions that rely heavily on electricity for lighting. Improved Mental Health The added daylight can have a positive effect on our mental health. Exposure to natural light increases serotonin levels in the brain, which can improve mood and overall well-being. Longer evenings mean more time to relax outdoors, which can also help reduce stress levels and enhance happiness. Boost to the Economy DST can also have a positive effect on the economy. With more daylight in the evening, people are more likely to go out and shop, dine, or participate in recreational activities. This boost in consumer activity can be beneficial for local businesses, especially those in the tourism and retail industries. The Controversy: The Disruptive Effect of the Time Change Despite these benefits, the transition to daylight saving time is not without its drawbacks. The change can disrupt our sleep cycles, which may lead to increased fatigue and even a temporary dip in productivity. Some studies have shown that the period immediately after the time change is associated with a slight uptick in heart attacks and traffic accidents, possibly due to the disruption of our circadian rhythms. This shift also doesn’t work for everyone. For example, people in northern latitudes, where days are already long during the summer, may find little benefit from the extra hour of daylight. In fact, some places, like Arizona and Hawaii, have opted out of daylight saving time entirely due to its perceived inconvenience. Tips for Adjusting to Daylight Saving Time If you’re struggling with the time change, here are some tips to help ease the transition: Start Preparing Early : Gradually adjust your sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up 15 minutes earlier each day in the week leading up to DST. This can help minimize the shock to your system. Stay Active : Exposure to natural light and physical activity can help reset your internal clock. Try to get outside during daylight hours to ease the adjustment. Be Mindful of Your Sleep : Try to maintain a consistent sleep routine even during the adjustment period. Avoid caffeine and electronics before bedtime to ensure better sleep quality. Making the Most of More Sunlight Sure, daylight saving time has its fair share of haters, but there’s no denying the perks—more time for evening adventures, a boost in outdoor fun, and even a little energy savings. As we roll into March 2025, let’s lean into the longer days! Whether you’re basking in golden hour on an after-dinner walk, tackling those long-overdue outdoor projects, or just soaking up the extra sun, the “spring forward” shift is the perfect excuse to shake off the winter blues and embrace the brighter days ahead!
Breakfast, Dinner or Late-Night Snack!
As technology continues to evolve, our smartphones and devices are becoming more powerful than ever. With new advancements in AI, security, and productivity, staying ahead means keeping the best apps on your phone. Whether you want to improve efficiency, manage your finances, or stay entertained, these ten apps are worth considering in 2025. 1. ChatGPT Mobile Platforms: iOS, Android Download: Available on the App Store and Google Play Store AI-driven assistance is more advanced than ever, and OpenAI’s ChatGPT Mobile app remains an essential tool. From generating ideas and answering questions to helping with emails and coding, this AI-powered assistant is perfect for personal and professional use. 2. Evernote AI Platforms: iOS, Android, Windows, macOS Download: Available on the App Store, Google Play Store, and Evernote website Note-taking has been revolutionized with AI-powered features. Evernote AI helps users create, organize, and search notes effortlessly using smart tags, voice recognition, and summarization tools, making it a must-have for professionals and students alike. 3. Google Gemini Platforms: iOS, Android Download: Available on the Google Play Store and as a built-in feature on Pixel devices Replacing Google Assistant, Google Gemini is the next evolution in smart personal assistants. It integrates AI-powered voice commands, real-time data updates, and automation to simplify tasks and enhance daily productivity. 4. Revolut Platforms: iOS, Android Download: Available on the App Store and Google Play Store Managing finances is easier with Revolut, a cutting-edge banking app offering budgeting tools, cryptocurrency trading, and global payment solutions with minimal fees. It’s perfect for those who travel frequently or want to optimize their spending. 5. BeReal 2.0 Platforms: iOS, Android Download: Available on the App Store and Google Play Store Social media continues to shift toward authenticity, and BeReal 2.0 leads the way. The app encourages users to share unfiltered moments at random times, fostering genuine engagement and breaking away from curated social media feeds. 6. Duolingo Max Platforms: iOS, Android, Web Download: Available on the App Store, Google Play Store, and Duolingo website Learning a new language has never been more engaging. Duolingo Max leverages AI to offer personalized lessons, real-time feedback, and immersive conversational practice, making language learning more effective than ever. 7. Spotify AI DJ Platforms: iOS, Android, Web Download: Available on the App Store, Google Play Store, and Spotify website Music streaming takes a new turn with Spotify AI DJ, which curates personalized playlists using AI-driven recommendations. It adapts to your mood and preferences, ensuring an endless flow of songs suited to your tastes. 8. Otter.ai Pro Platforms: iOS, Android, Web Download: Available on the App Store, Google Play Store, and Otter.ai website For professionals who need transcription services, Otter.ai Pro is an invaluable tool. With AI-enhanced real-time transcription, meeting summarization, and seamless integration with productivity apps, it streamlines workflow and communication. 9. 1Password X Platforms: iOS, Android, Windows, macOS Download: Available on the App Store, Google Play Store, and 1Password website Online security is more critical than ever, and 1Password X offers an advanced password manager with AI-generated passwords, biometric authentication, and secure sharing options to protect personal and professional accounts. 10. Calm AI Platforms: iOS, Android Download: Available on the App Store and Google Play Store Mental wellness remains a priority, and Calm AI takes meditation and relaxation to the next level. The app uses AI-generated sleep stories, guided meditations, and mood tracking to help users manage stress and improve well-being. Conclusion With 2025 bringing new advancements in AI, automation, and security, these apps will help you stay ahead in productivity, entertainment, and personal well-being. Downloading and integrating these into your daily life will ensure you get the most out of your technology in the years to come.
Insurance can often feel like a complex puzzle, with premiums that rise without explanation. However, at its core, insurance is a straightforward equation based on two key factors: claim frequency and claim severity. Understanding how these elements interact can shed light on why rates change and what you can do to manage your premiums. Claim Frequency: The "How Often" Claim frequency refers to how often insurance claims are filed. If an insurance company sees an increase in claims across a particular category—for example, a spike in car accidents in a given region—it assumes a higher risk of future claims and adjusts premiums accordingly. Even if the individual claims are minor, a consistent uptick in claim frequency can drive rates upward for everyone in that category. Claim Severity: The "How Much" Claim severity, on the other hand, deals with the cost of those claims. A single claim for a high-value incident, such as a total vehicle loss or a major home disaster, can significantly impact rates. For instance, the average cost of parts and labor for a property damage liability claim—an accident that only resulted in damage to the other person’s vehicle, not any bodily injuries—was $1,125.00 in 2000. By 2010, that average had increased to $3,100, and by 2020 it had risen to $5,215.00. When the average cost of claims rises this significantly, insurers must increase premiums to cover these higher payouts. Real-World Examples Some vehicles provide clear examples of how claim frequency and severity influence insurance rates. For instance, Kia and Hyundai vehicles often have higher insurance premiums compared to other cars in the same price range. Why? Because certain Kia and Hyundai models are easier to steal, leading to a higher claim frequency for theft. This increased risk makes insuring these vehicles costlier for both the insurer and the policyholder. Similarly, high-performance vehicles like sports cars often face higher premiums due to the combination of higher claim frequency (more accidents) and higher claim severity (costlier repairs or total losses) even if the sports car costs less than other vehicle options . These factors compound to create a more significant impact on rates. The Balancing Act Here's the crux of the matter: when either claim frequency or claim severity increases, it can affect your rates. However, when one factor rises while the other stays flat or decreases, insurers may manage to keep premiums steady. For example, if claim frequency drops but the cost of claims increases, the overall impact might balance out. But when both claim frequency and severity rise? That’s when the real trouble begins. Premiums can skyrocket, leaving policyholders feeling the pinch. What Can You Do? While some factors influencing claim frequency and severity are out of your control (like regional weather patterns or economic trends), there are steps you can take to minimize your own risk: Get an estimate before you buy: Remember, it’s not just the replacement cost of the vehicle that determines the risk assessment by insurance carriers. A sports car might be valued at half of what an SUV may be valued for example, but the insurance may cost the same or more based on the factors outlined previously. Drive Safely: Avoid traffic violations and accidents to help keep auto claim frequency low. Maintain a Good Credit Rating: While you may not be able to improve your credit score immediately, you can enhance it over time to lower your rates.. Consider Higher Deductibles: A higher deductible often leads to lower premiums, as it reduces the insurer’s exposure to smaller claims. Rely on Wheat State Insurance: As an independent insurance agency, Wheat State Insurance works for you, not the carriers. With access to a robust list of insurance providers, we can compare rates and coverage options to ensure you get the protection you need at the most competitive price. A Final Thought As one insurance agent aptly put it: "When one goes up and the other stays flat or goes down, it stays the same. If both go up… you’re screwed." While blunt, this statement highlights the importance of understanding the dynamics behind insurance rates. By being proactive and informed, you can better navigate the world of insurance and protect your financial future.
The whole family will love these.
Prep : 15 Min | Cook: 40 Min | Total : 55 Min | Servings : 15
As the holidays draw near, balancing the demands of work with the festive preparations and family commitments at home can feel overwhelming. Between end-of-year deadlines, social events, and family gatherings, it’s easy to feel stretched thin. Here are some tips to help you find balance and enjoy a productive, joyful holiday season. 1. Set Clear Boundaries Between Work and Home Life Create Physical and Mental Boundaries: If you’re working from home, set up a designated workspace, and when work hours end, leave that space and mentally transition to home life. This separation helps you “clock out” mentally and stay present with family. Limit Work Communications After Hours: Set expectations with your team and clients regarding your availability outside of work hours. Muting notifications or using an out-of-office response during designated family time can help you keep work from encroaching on personal time. 2. Prioritize and Plan Ahead Use a Planner or Calendar to Stay Organized: Jot down both work and personal commitments, from deadlines and meetings to family gatherings and holiday shopping. Knowing what’s coming up will help you allocate time appropriately and avoid last-minute stress. Set Realistic Goals: The end of the year is often packed with projects, but it’s essential to be realistic about what you can accomplish. Break larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks, and prioritize those that must be completed before year-end. 3. Communicate with Family and Colleagues Share Your Schedule with Family Members: Keeping your family in the loop about your work commitments helps them understand your availability. This can prevent misunderstandings and allow them to support you during busier times. Let Your Team Know Your Availability: If you plan to take time off or have non-negotiable family commitments, let your colleagues know in advance. This transparency allows them to adjust expectations and helps you manage responsibilities without undue stress. 4. Embrace Flexibility, but Stay Focused Allow for Flexibility in Your Day: Accept that things won’t always go as planned during the holidays. Give yourself grace when interruptions happen, whether that’s a last-minute family obligation or an unexpected work task. Embracing flexibility can reduce frustration and help you adapt to change. Use Focus Time Blocks: Schedule focused work sessions, even if they’re only 30 minutes at a time, to make the most of your time. During these blocks, limit distractions and work on high-priority tasks. This approach can make a big difference in productivity, even on busy days. 5. Involve Family in Holiday Preparations Make Holiday Prep a Family Affair: Instead of taking on holiday tasks alone, turn them into family activities. Baking, decorating, and gift-wrapping can be shared experiences that double as quality time. This way, you’ll have less to do, and everyone gets to be part of the holiday spirit. Set a Schedule for Family Festivities: Plan family activities around your work schedule so you can fully engage without feeling rushed. Having specific times reserved for family fun will help you stay present and enjoy the season to the fullest. 6. Practice Self-Care and Manage Stress Take Time for Yourself: Between work and home obligations, it’s easy to overlook self-care. Schedule short breaks to recharge, even if it’s just a 5-minute walk, a quick stretch, or a few moments of deep breathing. Regular self-care keeps you feeling balanced and less stressed. Stay Active and Eat Well: Healthy habits are often the first to go during the holidays, but a little exercise and mindful eating can do wonders for your mood and energy. Whether it’s a quick workout or a nutritious snack, small efforts help you feel your best. 7. Plan for Some Downtime Carve Out Moments for Relaxation: Balance doesn’t mean doing everything; it’s about being intentional with your time. Plan a few pockets of downtime for rest or reflection to avoid feeling stretched thin. A little relaxation goes a long way in keeping your spirits high and your stress low. Be Mindful of Screen Time: When you’re off work, try to limit screen time, especially on work-related devices. Unplugging helps you fully unwind and be present with loved ones, enhancing your overall well-being. In Summary Balancing work and home during the holiday season doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With some planning, clear communication, and a bit of flexibility, you can keep both work and personal life in harmony. Remember to prioritize, embrace the festive spirit with family, and take care of yourself along the way. Here’s to a joyful, balanced holiday season that leaves you feeling fulfilled both at work and at home!
