Thank you everyone who attended the Paint and Sip for the Hudson Lions Club

We had a great time and raised funds for their Sight and Hearing Fund and Charity Fund.








" SUPPORT THE HUDSON LIONS CLUB"








"REMINDER DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME"


SET YOUR CLOCKS AHEAD MARCH 13TH

































                                                                        HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL

                                           The Hudson Lions Club Supports the Community Through the Holiday Season

The Hudson Lions Club rang the bell for the Salvation Army at Shoprite and donated 80 Holiday Goodie Bags to the Firemen’s Home for residents. The Hudson Lions Club is a volunteer organization who helps the community residents with a financial need for hearing and sight. If you are interested in learning more about the club or joining please contact Lion Laura Mortefolio at 518-828-5700 or membership chairperson Holly Tanner at 518-378-6416



" Daylight Savings Time is Here"

November 7,2021



                                           
                                                            " FALL CLEANUP"


                                                                              Just a reminder that Fall is here so remember to do your cleanup!

                                                                                       Clean your gutters, check your roof ,chimney, and furnace.

                                                                                                             Enjoy beautiful Columbia County!!


                 


                    " HUDSON LIONS CLUB COATS FOR KIDS CAMPAIGN"


Once again the Hudson Lions Club is participating in the Coats for Kids drive. Drop boxes will be located at S&F Technologies, Todd Farrell’s Car Care, First Presbyterian Church, Shoprite, Fairview Cleaners, Hudson DMV and IGA of Hillsdale. The club is asking for the support of the community that from October 1st-October 31st  they drop off there gently used children coats at one of the locations listed. If you do not have any used coats you may also donate new coats and drop them off at the cleaners.  Fairview Cleaners cleans the coats for free and then the club donates them to The Second Show who distributes them for free to area children in need. The Hudson Lions Club is a volunteer organization who helps the community residents with a financial need for hearing and sight. If you are interested in learning more about the club or joining please contact Lion Laura Mortefolio at 518-828-5700 or membership chairperson Holly Tanner at 518-378-6416

 

MONETARY DONATIONS MAY ALSO BE MADE TO HUDSON LIONS CLUB FOR THE CAUSE OR JUST TO HELP THE CLUB AT PO BOX 252 STOTTVILLE, NY 12172

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"HAPPY NEW YEAR"


We just wanted to take a minute to thank all of our customers for their support during the year of 2020.

As we enter the new year, one thing will stay the same: Our efforts to keep you feeling safe and comfortable while at our facility, and remember we are open to the public for full service Monday through Friday 9am-4:30pm and by appointment after hours.

Our main goal through this difficult time is to make your experience at our office as friendly and comfortable as it has always been.

Thank you for letting us be of service to you and your family over the years.


“ Our Family Serving Your Family For Over 50 Years”


Laura, Guy and Amanda



A good portion of homeownership is a learn-as-you-go experience. But you can avoid common mistakes made by new homeowners with these 10 home care hacks.



1. Make your own goo remover that actually works.
Mix together equal parts of coconut oil and baking soda. Apply to adhesives, wait and scrape. If the area is noticeable, test the mixture on a hidden spot first to check for staining.

2. Use a whole-house air freshener.
Pick out your favorite essential oil. Put two to three drops on your furnace filter whenever you replace it. The furnace fan will circulate the delicate scent throughout your home.

3.Try your water shutoff valves before you need them.
If you have an older house, the valves that shut off your water supply (near the toilet and under the sink) may not work. It’s also a good idea to know where your home’s main shutoff valve is and to make sure it works.

4. Find a plumber before you need a plumber.
Look for a plumber who’s licensed and ask for proof of insurance. Find out how long they’ve been in business, and make sure they’ll guarantee their work and the parts. In addition, get at least two references and read their online reviews. You could also ask a neighbor or nearby friend for a referral.

5. Maintain your garage doors.
Lubricate your garage doors once a year to keep them functioning smoothly and safely. Consult your owner’s manual to find the correct type of lubricant, which you can find at your local home improvement store. For more garage maintenance tips, click here.

6. Use ethanol-free gas for your lawnmower.
Ethanol-blended gas absorbs water over time, leading to poor engine performance. According to Husqvarna, E10 gas, which contains 10% ethanol, absorbs up to 50 times more water than standard gasoline and is, therefore, not recommended for small engines. Instead opt for ethanol-free gas, which stays fresher for longer.

7. Vacuum around your appliances frequently.
Specifically, vacuum around your refrigerator and water heater — especially if you have pets. If you notice the pilot light going out on your water heater, dust and pet hair may be the culprit. Try giving it a thorough cleaning and be sure to vacuum regularly.

8. Buy a fire extinguisher – or three.
Hopefully you’ll never need to use them, but having fire extinguishers located throughout your home in accessible places means you won’t waste time searching for them if the time comes. Keep at least one centrally located on each floor of your home. Did you know different types of fire extinguishers are suitable for different classes of fires?

9. Stock up on tools.
Even if you’re not the handy type, you should still keep a basic toolbox in your home. Here are some suggestions to help you get started.

10. You’ll probably lock yourself out, so plan ahead.
Leave a spare key with a trusted neighbor or nearby family member. You may even want to consider installing a programmable door lock.

Bonus tip: Prepare for severe weather. Plymouth Rock Assurance has tips on how to prepare for a hurricane, but many of these suggestions can also apply to other severe weather conditions.





EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY OUR OFFICE IS OPEN TO OUR CUSTOMERS. WE ARE PRACTICING SOCIAL DISTANCING AND SAFETY MEASURES. WELCOME BACK TO OUR PERSONAL SERVICE THE WAY IT WAS (ALMOST) FOR OVER 50 YEARS!!!!!!!!

Insurance Tips

In Business Since 1967 | Licensed Agents and Brokers | 24-Hour Service Completion

In Business Since 1967
Licensed Agents and Brokers
24-Hour Service Completion

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COVID-19

Emergency Regulation 216 prohibits insurers from cancelling, non-renewing or conditionally renewing policies for policyholders who demonstrate a financial hardship due to COVID-19 for a period of 60 days. Additionally, both insurers and producers are required to provide notice to affected policyholders of the provisions of Regulation 216.

Additional Information:
• Regulation 216: https://www.dfs.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2020/03/re_consolidated_amend_pt_405_27a_27c_new_216_text.pdf
• Executive Order 202.13: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/no-20213-continuing-temporary-suspension-and-modification-laws-relating-disaster-emergency 



What You Need to Know

•New York State on PAUSE: 100% of the workforce must stay home, excluding essential services.
•All non-essential gatherings of individuals of any size for any reason are temporarily banned.
•New Yorkers can call the COVID-19 Emotional Support Hotline at 1-844-863-9314 for mental health counseling.
•New York City will pilot closing streets to vehicles and opening them to pedestrians as part of the city's plan to address the lack of adherence to social distancing protocols.
•40,000 healthcare workers, including retirees and students, have signed up to volunteer to work as part of the state's surge healthcare force during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
•Department of Motor Vehicles offices are temporarily closed for in-office visits. Online transactions, including for license renewals, are still be available. License and permit expirations will be extended. 
•All non-essential businesses statewide must close in-office personnel functions until further notice as part of New York State on PAUSE. Bars and restaurants are closed, but takeout can be ordered during the period of closure.
•Testing is free for all eligible New Yorkers as ordered by a health care provider.
•Your local health department is your community contact for COVID-19 concerns.  

Some Helpful Hints for You

Here are some tips from David H Rivenburgh Agency Inc that you can keep in mind to keep your home and possessions safe.

Water Heater Tips

Check your water heater:
Check your water heater to make sure it is not leaking. If you find a leak, call a professional to determine the problem. If left untreated, it could rupture, causing major flood and water damage.

Shut off your main water valve:
If you are going to be away from your home for an extended period of time, be sure to turn off your water and drain the pipes. Cold temperatures and water in the pipes can cause the pipes to freeze and burst, causing major and extensive damage to your property.

Clean knowledge:
According to Family Handyman, synthetic soaps make cleaning easier as the soaps don't have certain ingredients that make tough soap scum. Any liquid soap or gel soap is synthetic.

Spring Cleanup

As temperatures start warming up, you can finally clean the gunk out of your gutters. Make sure the ladder you use isn’t too short — it should extend at least three feet over the top of the roof. Put it on firm, level ground. If the ground is uneven, you can buy “leg levelers” at a hardware store. Place straight or extension ladders at a 75-degree angle. Finally, have someone hold the bottom.

Boating Season

Are you one of the millions of boaters with spring fever, itching to get your vessel out of winter storage and back onto the water? If so, be sure to take the time to properly de-winterize and prepare your boat before taking it out for its first voyage of the season.

Having a spring ritual that includes recommended inspection, tune-up, and cleaning of your boat before setting out on your first trip can help prevent a host of problems that could keep you off the water later in the season — not to mention, help keep you and everyone aboard safe during your adventures.

The following are some tips to help get your boat as ready as you are to hit the water this year.

Prepare for the Season Ahead
Use some of those pre-season days to plan for brighter days of boating ahead:
  • Take a boat safety course, and obtain your boating certificate, if you have not already.
  • Read your owner’s manual and consult the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance guidelines.
  • Familiarize or re-familiarize yourself with your boat — its components, features and safety precautions.
Complete Your Pre-Launch Inspection and Maintenance
To help ensure a smooth, safe start to the boating season, have an American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC)-certified technician or mechanic perform the recommended maintenance on your vessel. Whether or not you get a professional tune-up, be sure to complete the following checklist before leaving the dock:
  • Inspect all of the safety equipment on board, including fire extinguishers, flares, personal flotation devices and first-aid kits, and repair, recharge and restock them as necessary.
  • Check all lights on your boat to make sure they are in place and operating properly.
  • Open the engine compartment to check for excess water in the bilge.
  • Check for any electrical issues, such as loose, disconnected or corroded conductors.
  • Check that the battery is properly secured to the vessel.
  • Check the fuel tank for leaks, and ensure there is proper ventilation.
  • Check the fuel filters to make sure no water is present.
  • Fill your tank with the freshest, highest-quality fuel available.
  • Change and check the oil level before starting the boat for the first time.
  • If you will be towing your vessel to its launch point, you will also need to properly inspect and maintain your trailer prior to your first outing.
Get In, on and out of the Water Safely
Once all tasks on your pre-launch checklist are complete, you can start your engine and get out on the water. It is important on your first, and every trip of the season, too:
  • Follow safe launching practices.
  • Monitor the engine temperature to make sure it is not overheating.
  • Monitor the cooling system to make sure it is operating correctly.
  • Ensure you and your passengers know and follow safe boating practices.
Remember: Every Vessel is Unique
The work required to get your boat water-ready will depend on whether it is used in fresh or saltwater, its size, manufacturer, model, and the state in which it is registered. Be sure to get the information you need, then develop and follow the right spring ritual to help ensure every trip of the boating season is safe and fun for all.

New Law for Smoke Detectors Effective April 2019

As of April 2019, the laws for smoke detectors is changing. Check out this article below

Columbia-Greene Media Article 1/2019

State law will require homeowners and businesses to upgrade their smoke detectors when installing new ones or replacing their old ones.

The General Business Law was amended in February 2016, changing the start date for the law from January 2017 to April 2019. The law allows existing battery-operated smoke detectors to remain but will prevent stores from selling new ones starting in April. Landlords and homeowners looking to sell their properties will also have to make the switch before they can rent or sell.

“It shall be unlawful for any person or entity to distribute, sell, offer for sale, or import any solely battery operated smoke detecting alarm device powered by a replaceable, removable battery not capable of powering such device for a minimum of 10 years,” according to the law.

Local fire officials see several benefits to the new law, mainly saving lives
and property.

“The lifespan [for the newer models] is 10 years, which alleviates human error,” First Assistant Catskill Fire Chief Patrick McCulloch said.

Hudson Fire Chief Anthony DeMarco echoed similar remarks.

“I think it’s a good idea,” he said. “It takes some of the human factor out of it. ‘Change the clock, change the batteries’ has been our slogan for years, but that doesn’t mean it’s getting done.”

McCulloch agreed the batteries in the existing models should be changed when the time changes in the spring and fall, or twice a year, and the smoke detectors should be replaced after 10 years.

After 10 years, homeowners should dispose of the old smoke detectors and replace them, DeMarco said.

“It makes the whole process simpler and safer,” he said. “It’s one less thing to think about. It’s hard enough to remember what to do on a daily basis, not to mention every six months.”

“It is still a good idea to test them [the 10-year models] once or twice a year,” McCulloch said.

Recommendations for where to place smoke and carbon monoxide detectors depend on building code, McCulloch said.

“There should be one in every common area,” McCullough said.

At $20, the new 10-year models are more expensive than the battery-operated units, which are around $5.

Despite the price difference, Greenport Fire Chief John Onufrychuk believes the new 10-year models required by the new law will prevent fires and save lives.

“It’s a good idea because when we go to people’s houses they haven’t changed their batteries or sometimes the alarms don’t work because they’ve taken out the batteries and put them in Christmas toys,” Onufrychuk said. “It’s unfortunate because that’s what will save their lives.”

Expiration of Car Seats

Did you know car seats expire? Check out this article to learn why.

Driving as the Fall Season Begins

1. Leaves: leaves on the ground can cause the road surface to be slippery and dangerous. Be careful when driving on leaves whether or not it is raining.

2. Weather: the temperature changes quickly so be aware of sudden changes such as rain, snow, sleet and fog.

3. Children and animals: children are back to school so be aware of bus stops and children walking. Animals are preparing for the winter, so be on the lookout as they are running wild.

Bundling Your Accounts

Call us and ask about bundling your accounts and check out this link for more information.

Summer Fun

  • Always make sure your summer recreational vehicles are insured.
  • Always wear your life jackets while boating.
  • Watch for motorcycles.

Spring Clean Up

1. Wash and wax your auto policy:

Check to see if your coverage on your auto policy match your current needs. Call your agent to review coverage and discuss them.

2. Spring clean your homeowners policy:

Time to review if you have current replacement value and have you
updated your inventory of home possessions? Have you acquired any valuables that need to be scheduled on your policy?

3. Update your life policies:

Do you need to update beneficiaries due to changes in marriage
status or have you added contingent beneficiaries?

4. Clean out your gutters.

5. Clean your air-conditioning filters both central and window units.

6. Repair loose or damaged siding.

7. Install surge protectors:
To prevent home electronics and appliances from lightning strikes and power surges.

8. Inspect swimming pools and outdoor play equipment to make sure they're properly maintained and safety features are intact.

9. Inspect decks, porches, and balconies:

Have secure railings and that any posts in these structures are spaced no more than four inches apart to prevent children from slipping through. Check to see that your garage door opener has an automatic reversing mechanism and a sensor that prevents the door from closing on a person or pet.

10. Prevent scalding injuries:

Set the thermostat on your water heater to 120 degrees.

11. Are small children in the home? 

Install child-proof latches on all windows that are less than two feet above the floor or on upper stories. Also, any window glass located less than 18 inches off the floor should be rated as safety glass.

12. Outfit electrical outlets located near water sources with ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIS).

13. Install and properly maintain smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Winter Tips

  • Make sure your chimney is cleaned.
  • Use care when burning candles.
  • Keep sidewalks and driveways clear of snow and ice.
  • Keep portable heaters at least 36" away from anything that can burn and run them only when you are home.
  • Keep boats, extra clothes, water, ice scraper and blankets in your car in case of breakdown.
  • Make sure your washer fluid is full, the gas tank is never lower than 1/4 and make sure wiper blades are in good working order.

Carbon Monoxide Safety

Remember anything that burns fuel, such as a fireplace, furnace, generator, automobile or gas appliance produces Carbon Monoxide.

Follow these tips:
  • Keep generators 20 ft from the house
  • Schedule regular maintenance on your furnace
  • Keep fireplaces clean and well vented
  • Keep fireplaces clear and well vented
  • Check CO detectors regularly
  • Make sure you have CO detectors
  • Make sure you change your batteries in CO detectors and smoke detectors.

Boating Safety

When you go out for a nice day on your boat make sure that everyone is equipped with a life jacket and is aware where they are located.
  • No drinking and boating.
  • Familiarize yourself with your water route to know the ins and outs of the waterway.
  • Be aware of other boaters.

Motorcycles

Remember it is that time of year again. Motorcycles are on the road so make sure you look twice to see if they are coming your way.

Tips for Winter Survival if Your Vehicle is Stranded

  • Plan a route.
  • Stay with your vehicle.
  • Make sure your vehicle is in good running condition and fueled.
  • Use the heater sparingly.
  • Have a winter survival kit with water, food, blankets and lightning.
  • Communicate with 911 and use cell phones as little as possible to save battery.
  • Mark the vehicle with a bright cloth on antenna for identification.
  • Keep yourself hydrated.
  • Try to keep your body warm by moving.

Clean Your Dryer Vent

Remember to always clean out your dryer trap after every load and to regularly clean the full dryer vent to the outside.

Avoid and Minimize a Claim

You as a homeowner and insured can help avoid or minimize a claim in your home. All you have to do is check your washing machine hoses annually to make sure they are fasten tightly and replace them if they are worn. Water damage claims from washing machines and ice machine makers are two of the most common occurrences that cause water claims.

Another easy precaution is to make sure everyone in the household knows where the water turn-off valve is in case there is a water breakage. By being able to turn the water off quickly will avoid more damage.

Texting and Driving

Remember that texting and driving is illegal as well as dangerous. Texting and talking on your phone is distracting you from driving so take a few minutes to pull over to do it. You may save your life or someone else.

How to Prepare for a Flood

  • After the last few years of extreme weather in Upstate and Downstate, New York residents need to start getting prepared in case of a flood. The following are some steps that can help us all be prepared.
  • Always have a supply of bottled water, canned food and high energy foods on hand.
  • Always keep your prescription medicine, first-aid kit, hand wipes, and toiletries in a cabinet that is on the first or second floor that is easily accessible.
  • Keep a gallon of bleach, battery operated radio, flashlights, extra batteries, candles, and lighter in a bag located someplace high but easily accessible.
  • Have shovel, hammer, rope, nails, utility knife, duct tape and gloves available.
  • Consider purchasing a gas generator.
  • Consider purchasing a flood insurance policy to meet your home and personal belonging's needs.

Storms

Our weather has been changing and remember that you need to make sure that your gutters are kept clean of debris to avoid backup and run over. Also, remember to keep your tree branches trimmed to avoid damage to your property during a storm.

Summer Recreational

Remember to insure your summer recreational vehicle, i.e., boats, jet skis, travel trailers, ATVs and motorcycles.

Summer Safety

Remember your watercraft safety and be on the lookout for motorcycles.

Clean Pathways

Remember to keep your sidewalks and driveways clean and clear of snow and ice to avoid any slip and fall incidents.

Fireplace and Wood Stove Safety

Remember to clean your chimneys for both your fireplaces and woodstoves before starting off the winter season to avoid chimney fires.

Clean Your Gutters!

Clean out your gutters to avoid back up during summer storms.

Credit Scoring: How Does it Affect You?

When shopping for automobile or homeowners insurance the insurance company may be looking at your credit history. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners can help you understand how your credit information may be used and how it may affect your insurance premiums. NAIC: 1-816-842-3600

It is a good idea to review your credit history to make sure it is accurate. You can request a copy of your credit history from:

Scheduled Jewelry

Remember to contact your homeowners insurance agent to see if your valuable jewelry is covered or should it be scheduled.

Fireplace and Wood Stove Ashes

Make sure that your hot ashes from your fireplace or woodstove are stored in a fire-resistant container and away from your house to avoid a fire starting.

Cleaning your Dryers

Make sure you clean your dryer vents regularly to avoid vent fires.

Now is the Time to Clean

Summer is the perfect time to clean your fireplaces and wood stoves. Some benefits of getting a head start are:
  • Learning of any potential repairs needed
  • More efficiency at the start of the heating season
  • Greater availability of service professionals
  • Reduced chance of chimney fires and puff backs
With that in mind, why don't you call your favorite maintenance service today and make an appointment. They should be glad to hear from you before the Fall rush starts!

Some Seasonal Tips

Spring has sprung! Remember to clean your gutters and trim all the trees around the house that are too close. Also, remember to let your insurance agent know of any changes to your property and updates.

Winter Tips
  • Avoid frozen pipes by insulating your pipes and keeping the heat in your home at an adequate level throughout the winter.
  • If you are away for more than a day have someone check on the house.
  • Turn your water supply off even when you are away for a short time to avoid the pipes bursting and the water won't continue to pump into the house.
Holiday Hazards
  • Exercise care when burning candles. Make sure they are in sturdy containers and kept out of the reach of children and decorations.
  • Never use candles on a Christmas Tree.
  • Never leave the item on the stove unattended.
  • Place artificial or fresh Christmas Trees away from the heat and make sure to water fresh trees daily.
  • Replace damaged lights and cords and always turn or unplug lights when you leave.
  • Don't overload your outlets.
  • Keep portable heaters at least 36 inches from any item that will burn.
Summer Water and Boating Safety

Remember by observing safety guidelines, you can reduce the amount of boating and water accidents and keep your friends and family safe.
  • Never swim alone.
  • Know your swimming ability limits and stay within them.
  • Make sure you learn the proper way to dive and know the depth of the water before diving
  • Never chew gum or eat while swimming.
  • When boating, carry a first-aid kit, as well as any prescription medicine and other items you and your guests may need.
  • Always have an AM radio in case of an emergency.
  • Make sure there is a life safety device for each person aboard.
  • Leave the alcohol behind when swimming or boating.
Of nearly 700 boating accidents in the nation each year, 21 percent are attributed to alcohol. Violators charged with Boating While Intoxicated face possible fines, jail and community service.

Remember to contact your insurance agent whether or not your boat is covered under your homeowners, as most homeowners have limited coverage.

Have a safe and happy summer!

Insurance Tips to Cut Your Losses

Call us today.

(518) 828-5700

(518) 828-5700

"Guy Rivemburgh and his staff are great! The facility is always clean and tidy. They are great and know the ins and outs of the insurance industry."

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