Our August 2019 Featured Agent Enjoys Getting to Know Her Clients and Their Families

Dominique Sharteer

With two children by the time she was 19 and a high-school dropout, Dominique Sharteer had a lot of challenges in front of her early in life. While some may have felt limited, that didn’t deter her; it made her stronger and determined to be successful.

How she went from that difficult start for a teen mom to becoming a successful insurance agent at SAV-ON in a handful of years is a testament to the way she lives her life: Always pushing ahead, never looking back.

After her second daughter was born, Dominique decided it was time to get her high school diploma, so while raising two young daughters she obtained her General Education Diploma (GED) at 19 years old.

She continued working at various retail jobs and a call center, where she worked with customers and found that she was good at connecting with them, understanding their problems and working to solve them. During those years, she also filled out a few career profiles and was always surprised to see that many of the results pointed to a career in the insurance industry!

Shortly after her seasonal job with the call center ended in December 2017, she noticed an ad for a Customer Service Representative at a local insurance agency on Craigslist. A company called SAV-ON was looking to hire someone, preferably someone who was bilingual. Since her husband was a SAV-ON customer, she was familiar with the company and applied. After an interview, she was hired as a CSR for their Seattle/White Center office in April 2018.

It wasn’t long before she decided that, while being a CSR was okay, she wanted to become an insurance agent. It meant more interaction with customers and the potential for making more money. SAV-ON management liked the idea and sent her to the one-week class. After that she studied hard while at the same time being a mom to her now three-children family, and passed both the necessary tests last September.

Now with almost a year as an agent, she really enjoys it. “Every day is a little different,” she says. “I really like developing personal relationships with my clients, trying to help them as much as possible.”

Dominique is a Seattle native, and most of her family live in the area. She comes from a big, blended family, with six sisters and three brothers. With all those siblings, she naturally likes a big family, and treats her SAV-ON clients like family, gaining their trust, getting to know them well and finding out about their families.

“I like to develop a business-friendly relationship with my clients,” she explains. “I like to make them feel comfortable and make the conversation flow while I get to know them personally. That way they get to know me, and will be repeat customers.”

This has also resulted in many of her customers bringing family members in for insurance. And they want to deal only with Dominique, since their family member has said nice things about her. One woman client brought her son in to get insurance with her, another brought their cousin in with them. In additions, many of SAV-ON’s White Center customers are Hispanic and being bilingual helps Dominique care for them without a language barrier getting in the way.

When Dominique isn’t helping clients at SAV-ON, she enjoys spending her off-hours with family. She likes to take her kids to the park, or swimming at her mom’s house on Angle Lake. She and her husband also like to grab a basketball and shoot hoops for fun and exercise. The family also enjoys playing card games together and having barbeques.

SAV-ON has become like a family to her, too. “They understand if something comes up, whether it’s a funeral or something personal we can go and make it up later,” She explains. “They care about their employees and I appreciate that!”

“This is my favorite job, and the first time I haven’t thought about leaving after a year,” she admits. “I really like that SAV-ON is so family-oriented, and I respect the management for being so flexible with their staff.”

She enjoys being an insurance agent and the flexibility of her own schedule. “I choose to work Saturdays, as my husband has Saturdays off and watches the kids during the day,” she says. “That way I can have other days off to be with my kids.”

As far as the future is concerned, she wants a job in which she can be successful, buy a home, and eventually retire from after a rewarding career. What that is hasn’t been determined, but insurance is in the running.

When asked what she wanted to say to those who are reading this article, she didn’t miss a beat: “Tell them to call SAV-ON and ask for Dominique! I’d be happy to help them!”

Help Your Car Beat the Summer Heat

Even though the Seattle area usually avoids the extreme temperatures that plague the rest of the country, it can still get plenty hot here in the late summer. These high temperatures can take a toll on your car. This is not the time to find yourself with your hood up on the side of a road! The following tips can help you avoid that problem.

Check your battery. Battery problems don’t always occur in the winter. In fact, summer heat can have a more negative impact on your battery than freezing winter temperatures. Heat and vibration are a battery’s worst enemies, leading to internal breakdown and eventual failure.

Make sure your battery is securely mounted to minimize vibration. Battery fluid will evaporate faster in the heat, which leads to corrosion on terminals and connections. Clean the built-up corrosion on battery terminals and cable clamps, and ensure the clamps are tightened sufficiently.

Check your engine's cooling system. Cooling systems protect engines from overheating and should be flushed periodically (as recommended by manufacturer). Also, make sure the coolant is filled to the proper level. If it's low, top off the reservoir with a 50/50 mix of water and the coolant type specified by the vehicle manufacturer. CAUTION! – Never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot – boiling fluid under pressure could cause serious burns. Cooling system components are largely made out of rubber, and susceptible to heat-related deterioration, so periodically inspect hoses and drive belts for cracking, soft spots or other signs of poor condition.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Driving on under-inflated tires can cause tires to overheat and increase the likelihood of a blowout, especially when road temperatures are extremely high. Conversely, don't overinflate the tires either. That causes accelerated wear and will shorten the life of the tires. Staying close to manufacturer's guidelines is the best practice.

Check your car’s tire pressure every two or three weeks, as tires lose about one pound of pressure per month through normal seepage. For accuracy, check tire pressures when the tires are cold, since warm tires will show a falsely high pressure reading.

Keep fluids at appropriate levels. Most engine fluids lubricate and serve as coolants by helping carry heat away from critical components. When fluid levels are low, the cooling effect is reduced, which increases the possibility of overheating. Periodically check all vehicle fluids, including motor oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid and brake fluid, to ensure they are at appropriate levels.

Maintain a comfortable driving environment. During hot summer days, an air-conditioning system can be more than just a pleasant convenience. It can reduce fatigue, which plays an important part in driver alertness and vehicle safety. If a car’s air conditioning is not maintaining the interior temperature as well as it once did, it may mean the refrigerant level is low or there is another problem. Have the system checked by a certified technician.

Be prepared for summer breakdowns. Even with diligent preventive maintenance, summer breakdowns can still occur, so it’s imperative that drivers have a well-stocked emergency kit in their cars. The kit should include water, non-perishable food items, jumper cables, a flashlight with extra batteries, road flares or an emergency beacon, basic hand tools and a first aid kit.

Summer driving can be fun, but making sure your vehicle can take it will keep it from becoming a nightmare.

Sources: American Automobile Association, Progressive Insurance Co.

2019 Summer Festivals in the Puget Sound Area

 

Summer Festivals Abound in Puget Sound

With summer in full swing and schools still out for a few more weeks, communities all around Puget Sound are holding their outdoor events and festivals in earnest. No matter what your taste in music, food or fun, there’s probably a local festival that will suit your fancy!

While Seattle’s big SeaFair weekend has just concluded, there are still plenty of events that offer a wide variety of themes and activities that will keep you and your family thoroughly entertained. While most offer free admission, some of the larger events require you to purchase a ticket. Below is a list of popular festivals and fairs.

The Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire
Aug 3 - 4, 10 - 11, 17 - 18, 2019
19401 Sumner-Buckley Hwy E, Bonney Lake, WA 98391
This medieval festival takes place the village of Merriwick. See the many costumes, watch mock battles, jousting, fire juggling performances and other Renaissance-inspired activities. 
https://washingtonfaire.com/
 

South Lake Union Block Party
Aug. 9, 2019
101 Westlake Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
South Lake Union’s big block party. A full day of community, food, art, music, and brews. This family-friendly event is free to enter, and will host a lineup of bands, food faire, community booths and lawn games. http://www.slublockparty.com/

Bainbridge Island Studio Tour
Aug. 9 - 11, 2019
Twice each year Bainbridge Island artists open their studios to the public. The free tour is self-paced and the route is easily accessible by bicycle or by car. Each destination provides an opportunity to meet the artists, view works in progress and finished pieces, as well as various refreshments and live entertainment. http://www.bistudiotour.com/

The Festival at Mount Si
Aug. 9 - 11, 2019
Si View Park
400 SE Orchard Dr, North Bend, WA 98045
Arts and crafts vendors from all over the State of Washington. There are many booths offering food and drink. Relax in the beer garden while supporting the festival and the local Rotary Club. Groove to jazz, blues, rock, country and more with live performances on two stages. https://www.festivalatmtsi.org/

AuburnFest
Aug. 9 - 11, 2019
25 W Main Street, Auburn, WA 98001
AuburnFest will include two entertainment stages, a beer garden, food vendors, craft and specialty vendors, community and non-profit vendors, a car show, a literary showcase & small press fair, as well as several free activities including Bocce, face painting, hands-on art activities, and an indoor playground. AuburnFest

Coupeville Arts and Crafts Festival
Aug. 10 - 11, 2019
Front St NE
Coupeville, WA 98239
Established in 1964, the Coupeville Arts and Crafts Festival is one of Washington State's oldest, continuously run festivals. The Festival is known for its primary focus on quality arts and crafts, handmade by artisans from the Pacific Northwest and beyond. The historic town of Coupeville is located on Penn Cove, Central Whidbey Island, WA. http://coupevillefestival.com/

North Bend Film Fest
Aug. 15 - 18, 2019
North Bend Theatre
125 Bendigo Blvd N, North Bend, WA 98045
The North Bend Film Fest is an event for our local community, Northwest creatives, and visitors. Enjoy special screenings of contemporary independent films from Sundance/SXSW/Tribeca/Toronto/and Berlinale film festivals, filmmaker talks, and interactive events in addition to a popular film program. http://northbendfilmfest.com/

Poulsbo Arts Festival
Aug. 16 - 18, 2019
The Poulsbo Arts Festival brings together an array of handmade arts and crafts, accompanied by food booths and live music and dance. There is something for all the family to enjoy including a children's arts corner, original design jewelry, fabric art, plus raffles and art demonstrations. https://www.visitpoulsbo.com/

Taste Edmonds
Aug. 16 - 18, 2019
Civic Center Playfield
310 6th Ave N, Edmonds, WA 98020
The 37th annual Taste Edmonds is August 16-18. Three days of food, music, vendors, rides, beer/wine and fun. Voted one of the "Top 100 North American Festivals", there's fun for everyone. http://tasteedmonds.com/

The Uptown Street Fair
Aug. 17, 2019
211 Taylor Street
Port Townsend, WA 98368
The Uptown Street Fair celebrates 28 years of fun in Uptown and includes local music, the Port Townsend Arts & Crafts Fair, the Port Townsend Farmers Market, a variety of food on the street, and free art activities for families. http://ptmainstreet.org/uptown-street-fair/

Tumwater Artesian Brewfest
Aug. 17, 2019
Tumwater Valley Golf Course Driving Range
4611 Tumwater Valley Drive SE, Tumwater WA 98501
The Tumwater Artesian Brewfest celebrates the legacy of brewing and its importance to Tumwater's history. Located in the shadow of the former Olympia Brewery, the 10-acre site hosts outdoor games, a stein-holding contest, and over 50 Pacific Northwest breweries and cideries sampling their best brews. http://tumwaterartesianbrewfest.com/

All Ford Show & Mustang Round-up
Aug. 17, 2019
Showare Center
625 W James St, Kent, WA 98032
Pacific Cascade Mustang Club's annual All Ford Show & Mustang Roundup at the Showare Center in Kent features hydroplane and Ford show cars, raffle prizes, food, music, & vendors, and spectator admission is free. https://www.hemmings.com/events

Sausage and Cider Fest
Aug. 17, 2019   
Covington Community Park & Soccer Field
17649 SE 240th St, Covington, WA 98042
The city of Covington is home to the annual Sausage and Cider Fest featuring hard ciders from around the Northwest, along with live music, lawn games, beer, wine, sausage and other food. http://sausageandciderfest.com/

Centennial Sk8 Fest
Aug. 17 - 18, 2019
Located on the scenic and smooth Centennial Trail in Arlington, Washington, the Centennial Sk8 Festival is an annual longboard/skateboard race event featuring an 8.5 mile uphill/downhill sunset race, a 5k sprint race, a free one-mile kids race and a 14.5 mile countryside race, plus a family-friendly festival on day two with local vendors, music, good food, lawn games and a Kombucha Garden with riverfront fun. https://centennialsk8fest.com/

Snoqualmie Railroad Days
Aug. 17 - 18, 2019
Northwest Railway Museum
38625 SE King St, Snoqualmie, WA 98065
Railroad Days is the annual community festival celebrating our spirit and origins as a railroad and logging town, and the home of the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe. The event is held in historic Snoqualmie, in and around the Northwest Railway Museum. Volunteer firemen and their wives organized the first festival in 1938, and the popular event is still going strong. http://www.railroaddays.com/

BrasilFest
Aug. 18, 2019
Seattle Center – Fisher Pavilion, Armory and Mural Amphitheater
305 Harrison Street, Seattle, Washington
The annual BrasilFest heats up Seattle Center with dancing, drumming, music, films, capoeira, traditional food, workshops, kids activities and exhibits. The festival will feature Brazilians wearing traditional costumes, Brazilian martial arts disguised in music and dance, parade and percussion jamming on the roof. http://brasilfest.org/festival/

Evergreen State Fair
Aug. 22 - Sept. 9, 2019
The Evergreen State Fairgrounds
14405 179th Ave SE, Monroe, WA 98272
The Evergreen State Fair in Monroe features an exciting lineup of events, including a logging show, Pro-West rodeo, crazy animal races, a petting zoo, carnival, auto races, and live entertainment. https://www.evergreenfair.org/

Hilltop Street Fair
Aug. 24, 2019
1223 Martin Luther King Way, 
Tacoma, WA 98405
The Hilltop Street Fair in Tacoma is an annual event featuring arts & crafts, live music, film competition, fashion show, quilt show, car show, food vendors, and kids activities. https://www.eventbrite.com/

Bumbershoot
Aug. 30 - Sept. 1, 2019
Seattle Center
Seattle’s annual international music and arts festival held every Labor Day weekend, attracting more than 100,000 visitors each year. North America's largest urban arts festival, Bumbershoot takes place in the heart of the city at the 74-acre Seattle Center. https://bumbershoot.com/

Olympia Harbor Days
Aug. 30 - Sept. 1, 2019
Harbor Days is an annual festival where tugboats return to the southernmost tip of Puget Sound for three days of entertainment, food, art, history, and a last farewell to the summer. https://www.harbordays.com/

Roy Pioneer Rodeo
Aug. 30 - Sept. 1, 2019
8710 Higgins Greig Road
Roy, WA, 98580
The Roy Pioneer takes place in June and September. The event attracts rodeo lovers from all over the United States and Canada. http://www.royrodeo.com/

Washington State Fair
Aug. 30 - Sept. 22, 2019
110 9th Ave SW
Puyallup, WA 98371
There’s always lots to do at the Washington State Fair in Puyallup. The fair lasts for 20 days, and fair goers enjoy delicious food, wild rides, first-rate entertainment and fun for the whole family. It's the biggest party in the state! https://www.thefair.com/

Bremerton Blackberry Festival
Aug. 31 - Sept. 2, 2019
On the waterfront boardwalk in downtown Bremerton, Washington
The Bremerton Blackberry Festival features over 100 vendors in their street fair, live entertainment, a Berry Fun Run, and a Berry Bike Race. http://www.blackberryfestival.org/

Beware: Imposter Scams on the Rise

Crooks posing as someone else try to get you to send them money or other sensitive personal information

Imposter scams are on the increase. According the the Federal Trade Commission, there were 382,211 complaints about imposter scams in the first half of 2018. This is by far the most common form of fraud, accounting for more complaints than the next six fraud types combined!

It starts with an unsolicited phone call, email or text. These con artists impersonate people and organizations you would normally trust.

• A government agency such as Social Security, Medicare for the IRS
• Companies you do business with, such as your bank or power company
• Familiar charities
• Celebrities
• A lawyer or debt collector
• A family member or friend 

The goal is to frighten you or cause you to make a rash decision, send them money or sensitive financial information, then they disappear.

Warning Signs

• You receive an unsolicited call or email claiming you owe money to a business, utility or the government, and risk dire consequences such as arrest or an account being frozen if you don’t pay immediately.
 
• A caller says you’ve won a prize or qualify for a grant, but you must pay an upfront fee to collect it.
 
• A caller claiming to be from a tech company or internet service provider says he's detected a virus or malware on your computer.
 
• You receive a call or text message from someone who claims to be your grandchild or another close relation and to need money for an emergency.
 
• The person contacting you asks for payment by wire transfer, gift card, prepaid debit card or cash. Scammers favor these methods because they are hard to track.
 
Do's
 
• Do confirm independently whether a business, utility or government agency is indeed trying to reach you. Use the customer service numbers or email addresses listed on invoices, account statements and legitimate corporate and government websites.
 
• Do hang up on unsolicited callers offering to fix computer problems. Companies like Apple and Microsoft will not contact you for tech support unless you have requested help, and they will not ask for personal information.
 
• Do report impostor scams to the company or institution being impersonated.
 
• Do cut off contact if you suspect someone you’ve forged a bond with online is an impostor.
 
Don'ts
 
• Don’t give sensitive information such as credit card details or your Social Security number over the phone unless you’re sure of whom you are dealing with.
 
• Don’t make a payment or allow remote access to your computer to someone who calls out of the blue offering tech support.

Source: AARP
 

HOV Lane Violators to Face Increasing Fines

The Seattle area commute is fraught with slowdowns and gridlock most hours of the day in one direction or the other. The High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes, which require more than one person in the vehicle to legally drive in that lane, are less crowded and save commuting time.

In an effort to beat the traffic jams, more and more frustrated single drivers have resorted to driving in the HOV lanes illegally, attempting a variety of things to appear like they have more than one occupant in their vehicle. The Washington State Patrol has found mannequins, Halloween masks on bags, sleeping bags with hats perched on top, and articles of clothing stuffed to look like passengers in vehicles they’ve pulled over.

HOV lanes are meant to provide faster travel times by encouraging drivers to carpool or vanpool. Most HOV lanes require at least two people in a vehicle. But with all the cheaters, HOV lane violations are one of the most frequent complaints the State Patrol receives.

New Emphasis on Violators

Currently, both houses of the Washington State Legislature are proposing bills to crack down on HOV violators with stiffer fines. Sen. Marko Liias, D-Lynnwood, has proposed SB 5695, which puts fines for first-time offenders at $186. A second offense and the driver faces a $336 fine. Each additional infraction within a two-year period is a $686 fine. Rep. Jake Fey, D-Tacoma, has introduced HB 1710. His bill also proposes higher fines for first-time offenders and increasing fines by hundreds of dollars for repeat offenders.

Drivers who try to fool the patrol using dummies, mannequins or other items that create a fake passenger would face an additional $200 penalty.

When stopped and caught with only the driver in the vehicle, some drivers have come up with crazy explanations. One guy driving a hearse claimed that the body in the casket should be counted as a passenger.

Pets are not considered passengers, either. So your favorite pooch may go everywhere you go, but don’t drive in the HOV lane with just Fido in the car. It’ll cost you a lot of dog food.

If you notice a driver alone in a car in the HOV lane, have a passenger call 1-877-764-HERO to report the violator. If possible, report the license plate number of the vehicle.

Sources: Washington State Legislature, The Stranger, The Seattle Times

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Armed Forces Day – Paying Tribute to Those Who Serve

Armed Forces Day is celebrated annually on the third Saturday of May. This year that falls on May 18th, and is an opportunity to show support for the men and women in the United States Armed Forces who risk their lives to keep our country safe.

How It Started

On August 31, 1949, Louis Johnson, the United States’ Secretary of Defense, announced the creation of an Armed Forces Day to replace separate Army, Navy and Air Force Days.

Bremerton's Armed Forces Day Parade.

The event came about after all the branches of the armed forces were joined together under one department – the Department of Defense. At first the Army, Navy and Air Force leagues adopted the newly formed day.

The first Armed Forces Day was celebrated on Saturday, May 20, 1950. Armed Forces Day was a day for the military to show "state-of-the-art" equipment to Americans. It was also a day to honor and acknowledge Americans in the armed forces.

Local Celebrations

2019 Kitsap Credit Union Annual Armed Forces Day and Parade
Where: Bremerton
Date: May 18, 2019
Time: 7:00 am - 2:00 pm

Bremerton is the site of the Armed Forces Day Parade, the largest and longest-running parade of its kind in the U.S. This year is the 72nd year of the event. This event includes the Heroes’ Barbeque that provides a free hot dog, chips and soda to all active-duty, reserve, retired and veteran service personnel.

A Day at the Races – A Salute to Armed Forces
Sponsored by USO Northwest & Emerald Downs Racetrack. Saturday, May 18th in Auburn at Emerald Downs. Gates open at noon. Racing begins 30 minutes after gates open.
Free admission to all military and their families.

Armed Forces Day
Where: Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Tacoma.
When: Saturday, May 18th, 11 am to 7 pm

Admission, parking, military displays, historical reenactments, entertainment and athletic events are free. Carnival rides, food and other vendor products are available for purchase.

• • Military aircraft and vehicle displays
• • Meet historians from the Lewis Army Museum
• • Living history encampments representing military life in the past
• • See mock battles
• • Roving entertainers throughout the day, including “Blitz” the Seahawks’ mascot
• • JBLM’s America’s First Corps Band on stage throughout the day
• • Army vs. Navy rugby match at Cowan Stadium

The Biggest Risk to Your Home (And How to Prevent It)

Most people think the biggest risk to their home is a fire or a bad storm.  It’s why they buy insurance (and the fact it’s required by their mortgage lender). 

But in reality, the biggest concern is protecting your assets from a liability claim. Consider this possible scenerio:

Warm weather has arrived for the weekend, and the sun has finally come out. Everyone in the neighborhood is beginning their spring yard work. Mowing, planting flowers, and digging those vegetable gardens. There is a lot of work to be done!

So, let's say that you've dug a large hole in the front yard so you can plant a new tree. You walk away for a moment and while you're gone the kid next door runs through the yard, falls in the hole, and breaks his ankle.

Unfortunately, you could be held responsible for his injury. But, not to worry, your homeowner's liability insurance is made for these kind of situations. It will pay if someone is injured on your property. It's also the coverage that protects you if the dog bites your child's friend (as long as it's not a restricted breed) or if your cousin trips and falls down your front steps.

If you have a large number of assets, then you'll want higher liability coverage. If the injury exceeds your liability coverage amount, then you could be sued for the difference. That's where an Umbrella Insurance policy can protect you. Contact SAV-ON Insurance; we will be happy to work with you to determine the amount of coverage that you are comfortable carrying.

No one can protect themselves by just being careful alone. There are too many possible scenarios that you could never avoid. But with the right insurance coverage, you'll never have to worry.

Call SAV-ON Insurance today at 888-867-2866 for a free review and to discuss how much liability coverage you need.

Boating Season is Almost Here - Are You -- and Your Boat -- Properly Covered?

It won’t be long now before you’re back out on the water.  Are you counting down the days? 

While everyone loves to hit the lake on the boat, there are a few things you need to take care of first.

Do you have your Washington Boater's Card?

In Washington, if you were born after January 1, 1955, you must take the boaters exam and pass it to earn your Washington Boater's Education Card. Without that, you cannot operate a boat in the State of Washington. Go to the https://boat.wa.gov/ to find out more and sign up for the test.

Are you properly covered?

Since boat insurance isn’t required (in most states), a lot of people skip it in order to save money.  But that’s a very risky idea! 

First, without coverage, you’re risking all the money you spent on your boat.  Would you drive your expensive car without insurance?  Probably not! 

Second, boats and personal watercraft (jet skis) are a liability exposure.  That means that they open you up to lawsuits.  If you were to have an accident and damage someone’s boat or personal property, then you could be held responsible.

With the proper insurance coverage, this wouldn’t be a problem. You’d be protected!  In fact, we typically recommend that clients with a high level of assets purchase extra liability coverage if they own a boat.

All in all, purchasing boat owner's insurance is a simple way to give yourself a lot of peace of mind.  Who wants to worry about insurance when they’re out on the water?  

Call SAV-ON today at 888-867-2866 for a free quote on your boat or personal watercraft.  

Year-round Daylight Saving Time Coming to Washington State

When you switched your clocks one hour ahead in March, it was probably the last time you'll ever need to do it. The Washington Legislature is following the lead of California and is moving bills through the Senate and House that would make Daylight Time the law of the land permanently.

It's not a new idea. Various measures have been proposed in Washington, as well as other states, for many years. This year is different; there's plenty of momentum this time, says Sen. Jim Honeyford of Sunnyside, the sponsor of the State Senate's version of the bill (SB 5139).

One reason the previous efforts failed was because the bills proposed adopting Standard Time as the permanent solution. We currently have Pacific Standard Time from October to March during the winter months, when there aren't as many outdoor activities that require sunlight, and the weather isn't very conducive to evening outings. 

Originally Daylight Saving Time was instituted so farmers had an extra hour of daylight for farming, then we reverted back when the farming season ended in the fall. Now most farming goes on all year, so the thinking was to keep an extra hour of daylight throughout the year.

Another sponsor of the bill, Sen. Sam Hunt of Olympia, said he found that people wanted an extra hour of daylight in the evening, not in the morning.

The state Senate passed its version of the bill on March 12th by a vote of 46-3, and has been sent to State Government, Tribal Relations & Elections, where it is expected to be approved. Check on its status here

A similar proposal, House Bill 1196, worked its way through the State House, and on March 9, 2019 was passed by a vote of 89-7. Check on its status here

A final bill will be sent to Governor Inslee's desk for approval, and it will propose it be authorized by Congress. It would then go into effect next year.

What if Congress refuses to authorize the switch? Then Washington's legislature proposes that the state seek approval to change Washington to year-round Mountain Standard Time, which would have the same effect.

This action follows the lead of California voters, who have already approved permanent Daylight Time, and this state's sponsors say it's important that the entire West Coast be unified in their approach to time. Oregon is also considering the change to permanent Daylight Time, which would make the entire West Coast be in permanent Daylight Time.

On the east coast, Florida has passed the "Sunshine Protection Act", which keeps clocks the same year-round, and the Tennessee legislature is also considering it this year.

Whatever way it works out, it looks like Washingtonians won't be needing to change their clocks twice a year anymore. But, you won't be getting off scot-free; it's still going to be important to check your smoke detectors twice a year!

Prepare Now for Unpredictable March Weather

March is almost here, and with it comes some of the most unpredictable weather of the whole year! Be prepared for March and you could save yourself a lot of problems.That means being ready for whatever Mother Nature decides to bring!

You’ve undoubtedly heard the saying, “March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb”. It’s not quite that simple anymore, with climate change affecting much of our weather, but you get the idea. One day it’s windy and cold with some snow, and a couple days later the sun comes out and you don’t need a jacket!

What do you need to do this month to keep your home running smoothly and your family protected?  Read below to find out! 

Change Batteries in Smoke Detectors - When Daylight Saving Time makes you move your clocks ahead one hour on Sunday morning, March 10th, it’s a great idea to change the batteries in all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors at that time.  This way you always know that they are working and in good order!

Make a Severe Weather Plan - Designate a safe place in your home in case of bad weather.  Stock it with basic emergency food and supplies, and throw in an extra flashlight and batteries too!

Check Your Credit Report - March is Credit Education Month.  When was the last time you checked to see that your credit reports were accurate?  If it’s been over a year, stop by www.annualcreditreport.com and order a free copy today.

Flood Insurance Coverage - Do you live near a river or lowland area prone to flooding? With all the snow we’ve had this year (a record amount in February!), when the snow starts melting in the mountains it could mean some severe flooding in the lowland areas around Western Washington. But don’t wait! Flood insurance has a 30-day delay before it takes effect in this state, so it’s important to add that coverage BEFORE a flood occurs or you may not be covered.

Review Your Insurance Discounts - Are you getting all the discounts you qualify for?  March is a good time to call your SAV-ON agent and setup an appointment to review your policy and see if there are any changes that need to be made.

And as always, call SAV-ON Insurance Agencies at 888-867-2866 if you have any questions or need assistance with auto, home, business, or life insurance.

Insurance Discounts....Are You Getting Them?

Discounts are the best way to save on your insurance premium each and every month.  But a lot of people are missing out on them!  With a little documentation, you could see great savings.

Security Discounts - Does your home have a security system or fire protection system?  Some of these devices will help you save big on your home or renters insurance.  If you have a certificate of installation (and even if you don’t), let us know and we’ll see if you qualify.

Driver Training & Defensive Driving - Did your child take a Driver’s Education course?  Did you take a Defensive Driving course?  These classes will typically qualify for discounts!  Just bring in a copy of your completion certificate and we’ll get it added to your policy.

Teenage Driver With Good Grades - Good grades will help you save!  Some of our policies offer a discount for students who maintain a high GPA.  Give us a call to see the requirements for your policy. 

Payment Discounts - There are many different options when it comes to paying your premiums.  Some policies offer discounts for paying in full or a reduced installment fee if you put the payment on auto-draft.  We can advise you of all the payment options so you pay as little as possible.

Multi-Policy Discounts - When you have all of your insurance in one place, you save more!  If your auto and home insurance is spread out between multiple companies or agencies, let us help you consolidate.  You’ll be better protected (with less gaps in coverage) and save money!

The key?  Talk to your SAV-ON agent!  When we schedule regular annual reviews, we can review your policy discounts and make sure you are receiving the best coverage at the best price.  

Call us today at 888-867-2866 to schedule an appointment.