Business Spotlight
Have you heard? McKenzie Blumhagen is leading a BIO Girls in the Harvey community for the FIRST TIME. The American Academy of Pediatrics recently declared a national emergency in youth mental health, as rates of depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicidal ideation have skyrocketed in the past few years. No one has fared worse than girls. 1 in 4 girls fall into a clinical mental health diagnosis,
6 in 10 adolescent girls battle low self-esteem, reporting they feel unhappy and unsatisfied with themselves most of the time. When self-esteem is low, girls give up the things they love, avoid failure, seek external validation, embody perfectionistic tendencies, and often find themselves depressed and anxious. These tendencies lead to a 75% chance of engaging in destructive behaviors such as substance abuse, eating disorders, promiscuity, poor academic performance and self-harm or suicide.
Proven to significantly increase self-esteem, BIO Girls, a 501c3 nonprofit, empowers girls to believe in their unique purpose while increasing their confidence and sense of belonging. Extensive research has shown that 7 out of 10 BIO Girls participants experienced an increase in self-esteem and 50% experienced a decrease in anxiety.
BIO Girls reaches over 2,700 girls annually across the Midwest.
Posted on May 2nd, 2024
Recipe of the Month
No Bake Lemon Blueberry Delight
Ingredients
· 3 cups graham cracker crumbs
· 3/4 cup butter, melted
· 2 - 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, room temperature
· 1 cup granulated sugar
· 1/3 cup lemon juice
· 1 cup 2% milk
· 3.4 oz. box instant lemon pudding
· 21 oz. can blueberry pie filling
OR use homemade Blueberry pie filling
6 cups Blueberries, fresh or frozen, 2 tbsp Lemon juice, 1/3 cup Cornstarch, 1 cup Granulated sugar, 1 Pinch Salt
Add blueberries to a large pot. Add the sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt, then toss to combine.
Heat and stir over medium-high heat until the berries have softened and the cornstarch thickens and turns translucent. Around 10-15 minutes.
· 16 oz. tubs frozen whipped topping, thawed
Instructions
1. Mix graham cracker crumbs with butter. Set aside 1/2 cup for optional topping. Press crumbs in bottom of a 13 x 9 dish, and let crust set up in the fridge while you work on the next layer.
2. If you are making Homemade Blueberry Pie Filling – Make that now so it can cool while you are prepping the lemon layer. If you are using a can, disregard and continue!
3. In a large bowl, beat mix cream cheese and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the lemon juice and milk, mix thoroughly. Add dry pudding last, beat until thoroughly mixed. Batter will be thick. Drop by dollops onto the crust and spread gently into an even layer.
4. Drop pie filling on top of lemon layer by spoonful's to reduce having to spread it. Gently spread into an even layer.
5. Top with frozen whipped topping layer and optional reserved graham cracker crumbs.
6. Allow dessert to set up in refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Keep refrigerated and enjoy!
Posted on May 2nd, 2024
Claim Corner
Why have Kias and Hyundais been blacklisted by some insurance companies?
Trending on social media isn't always a good thing these days. The issue came to the forefront in July 2022 when people stealing Kias using a flathead and a USB cable became a trend on social media. There has been a 1000% increase in Kia And Hyundai thefts between 2020 and 2023. The problem is that many of these models lack engine immobilizers. This means they do not require a key fob or key to be in the car in order for the engine to be started. Unfortunately, Hyundai and Kia lagged behind other automakers in making them standard equipment. The fallout of this trend has made its way to the insurance industry, with several large providers refusing to take new customers who own these vulnerable models. Due to the increased theft of these models, some companies have chosen to raise rates or not even write them at all. The best way to find out if you are affected is to ask your insurance company. In addition, potential buyers should check with their insurance company before buying a used Hyundai or Kia to make sure they will be able to insure their purchase when they drive off the lot.
There are some remedies to this problem. Check with your carmaker, as Kia and Hyundai have rolled out free anti-theft software updates for models at the highest risk, some just as simple as a software update. The software upgrades could gradually reduce the number of thefts as more drivers get them installed, which would mean it'd be less risky for insurers to cover Kias and Hyundais. Another way to protect your vehicle is a steering wheel lock which is one of the best forms of defense.
Some of the carriers we work with will not write certain models of these vehicles. We have been able to send in proof that the anti-theft software was installed by the dealer and they will allow the vehicle to remain on the policy. Check with one of our agents if you have questions!
Posted on May 2nd, 2024
Hat’s Off to Our NuLine Seniors!
NuLine would like to congratulate all area Seniors of 2024!
Ava Haldorson is an upcoming graduate from Harvey High School! She shared that her favorite memory from high school was when she was in biology class. They were dissecting rats and Ava has a fear of them (don’t we all?). The entire class period Ava apparently was crying and screaming to the point where her teacher had to cover the rats head with a paper towel and cut off the tail so that Ava could continue working and doing what she was supposed to. What a memory….In lighter news, Ava plans to attend North Dakota State University in the Fall and major in, get this, BIOLOGY! Ha! Ava wanted the underclassmen to hear this, "give it a try while you have a chance. But also know how to say no. Don’t spend your years trying to do things for others. What’s important to you, pursue it to the best of your ability and work hard." I guess she wanted us to wait for her speech at graduation to see what she wanted her parents to hear from her.. thanks for the cliff hanger Ava..
Trista Hamilton is an upcoming graduate from Rugby High School who remembers walking to dairy queen and getting ice-cream for a class. That is certainly a memory that I would remember too, YUM! After graduation Trista plans to attend Bismarck State College and pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education! She wanted the underclassmen to hear this advice, "Beware of Mr. Beacon on Senior Skip Day because he will give out a test 2 days later and give a pop quiz. Enjoy being home and seeing your friends everyday!" We asked the seniors what they wanted their parents to know as they are about to venture out from their wings, Trista said, "Thanks for letting me sleep in when needed." We hope you get well rested before you head off in the Fall, Trista!
Posted on May 2nd, 2024
You can drive just about anything on the road…..cant you?
By Amy Streifel
Recently I was driving down our local Main Street and I got caught behind a moped. There were two girls riding and beeping and waving and not looking very safe. They weren't paying attention and I laid on my horn. I probably would have done the same thing at their age, but now I had to be a responsible adult. One of the girls turned around and waved…..my daughter, I should have known. Number one, she doesn't own a moped. Number two, doesn't she need a license for that or at the very least, a helmet? Shortly after that, I see a scooter go by with more teenagers on it. What exactly are the rules of these types of vehicles? It is more and more common to see ATVS and scooters cruising the streets. They are becoming more common on college campuses as well. After some research, I learned, to use paved roads, the vehicle must be able to travel 30mph or faster, lights must always remain on and the driver must have a valid license or permit. No license is required to operate any vehicle that is not on a public roadway. So where do mopeds and scoots fall from an insurance stand point?
Scooters fall under the same umbrella as motorcycle insurance and most states require some form of insurance for scooters with an engine of 50cc or higher. Electric bikes or E-bikes are also a growing trend, especially in larger cities. E-bikes generally have limited to no coverage under a standard homeowners or renters insurance policy because they're categorized as a motorized vehicle. If you own and ride an e-bike, you'll need a policy designed for e-bikes to be covered, which may include an e-bike insurance policy or in some cases, a motorcycle policy. Talk to your agent to find out the right choice for you. Either way, if you are driving on the street, you must have valid liability insurance!
Posted on May 2nd, 2024
Business Spotlight
Look, a landmark! Oh wait, it’s just a farmer’s building remind us where to turn…I cannot be the only one who uses the cues "turn left at the huge yellow shop." My husband would roll his eyes and ask me if I learned my cardinal directions, but I’ve come this far using landmarks… Anyways, because I am so great at giving directions, Moravian Builders, LLC decided they should help me out by building some post frame buildings all over North Dakota! Mirek and his team have been building industrial and agriculture buildings for over 5 years now.
They can construct cold storage buildings, or a heated shop. When I asked Mirek how far he would travel for a project, he answered saying this job has surprised him with the opportunity to see every corner of our beautiful state! They love to keep it local, but some projects are just a little too far from home. This crew of 6-8 people is typically booked out by the season, so some projects are a year ahead in the calendar. If you want to learn more, you can find Moravian Builders, LLC on Facebook or you could call Mirek at 570-994-3675 for more information.
Posted on April 22nd, 2024
Recipe of the Month
Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice
Ingredients:
2 Tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons sesame oil
1 pound shrimp
Salt and pepper
2 bell peppers diced
1/2 cup chopped green onion
2 cloves garlic minced
1 can pineapple chunks, or fresh!
2 cups leftover rice
3 Tablespoons soy sauce
2 Tablespoons pineapple juice
Instructions:
You will heat a large skillet over medium heat and add half of your olive oil and half of you sesame oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, add your raw shrimp. Salt and pepper to taste and cook for one minute per side. Remove the shrimp into a bowl and set aside for now. Add the reimaging olive oil to the skillet and add the bell peppers. Cook and stir for 2 min until soft, then add in your sliced green onions and garlic. Next, add your leftover rice to the pan, stir gently, then spread the rice into a single layer. Cook the rice for 2-3 min. Then, mix in your pineapple chunks and sauce mixture and return the shrimp to the pan. Serve immediately!
Posted on April 22nd, 2024
Claim Corner
April is National Pet Month and it’s time to think about those fur babies...your pets of course! We know your pets are family. When they get sick or injured, it can be a stressful time. That’s where pet insurance comes in. It can help by covering some of the costs of your pet’s covered and approved vet bills. Pet insurance, however, does not cover everything. Our insured came in a while back which stiches along his jawline. I knew it had to be either a facelift or a dog bite. He had attempted to move his dog away from him while he slept and his puppy snapped at him unfortunately, ending with a trip to the emergency room. Our insured still lived at home with his parents but had his own renters policy. So who pays for the doctor bill? When it comes to pets and you are the owner, coverage does not apply to you if you are a household member. If our insured’s dog would of bit a guest, his homeowners liability insurance coverage would have taken effect. It is also worth noting, the pet damage does not have to happen in your home. It can be at another location and your insurer will generally pay the victims medical bills plus any legal expenses, up to the limits of your policy. Pet insurance can be purchased in addition so you are more fully covered if your furry companion needs medical attention.
Pet insurance may include the following:
· Accidents and illness Diagnostic testing/X rays
· Vet-prescribed medication Alternative therapies
· Surgeries/hospitalizations and emergency car
Posted on April 22nd, 2024
Why are Rates Climbing?
By Amy Streifel
There are many shortcuts in life. We use them everyday in different aspects, but mostly to gain something. You can gain time when you take a shortcut on a road. You can gain quantity by adding broth to make more soup. (Thanks mom). I look for shortcuts all the time. In the grocery store, I buy a different brand as a money shortcut. So naturally, I look for shortcuts on my insurance. Are there any? Sure, but is it really a shortcut in the long run? In my experience, it never pays to skimp on your insurance. I’d like to make a shoutout to my kids. Without them, I would never have any examples to share with our customers. Case in point, recently I saw the rate increase on my own auto insurance and thought I would drop some coverage as a way to save money. A few weeks later, my lovely daughter, in an attempt to save a kitten from getting run over, swerved and hit another vehicle. The joke was on me. I could not put in a claim because I dropped coverages as a shortcut to save money. But at least that kitten lived another day. As an independent agent, we work with a lot different carriers and are seeing the changes across the board with our different policies. We are seeing anywhere from 9-20% as a normal average increase. What is driving the rate increases? The cost to rebuild homes is up dramatically due to the rising cost of materials and labor. Carriers simply can’t survive paying these higher prices without charging more themselves. The cost of home repairs is not the only thing increasing. The cost to repair your car is up 20%! This is due to the rising cost of auto parts and labor to fix cars. In addition, vehicle parts now include more technology features, which are harder and more expensive to repair.
So, what can we do? The good news in all this is there definitely are things we can do to offset the increasing prices of insurance. Almost every insurance company has discounts. You can get discounts such as good students, defensive driving course discounts, paperless discounts, safe driving discounts and more. Another big way you can save money is to increase your deductible. I have seen people save hundreds of dollars just by increasing a home or auto deductible.
Here are some more ways to save:
Þ Maintain a good driving record. Those claims and tickets affect your premium and can even limit which companies will accept your insurance.
Þ Explore payments options-there are discounts for paying in full
Þ Improve your credit score-your score has an impact on your premium
Þ Bundle your policies-another way to get a discount
Þ Learn how to save with teen drivers-if they get a good grades, you get is discount
Þ Participate in low-mileage driving programs
Þ Compare auto insurance quotes. At Nuline we are always watching for the best rates, but if you are unsure, just ask! We have several carriers and are happy to check them for you!
Þ The types of vehicles you drive are more or less expensive depending on the type and what safety features it has. It’s good practice to check out the insurance rate before you buy.
Posted on April 22nd, 2024
Business Spotlight
Our February Business Spotlight is 701 Healthcare Solutions!
Have you found yourself looking for someone to assist you with your health insurance needs? We have found you a "solution!" Pictured above are April, McKenna and Tanner. McKenna (middle—Owner/Broker) found there to be a lack of a local resource for helping people with their health insurance needs. I mean, we all know how confusing the different plans are and how does one keep track of changes from year to year? It is so complex! This is FREE health insurance guidance! How can we go wrong here!? They pride themselves on offering excellent customer service and giving honest advice so you can be informed and understand your coverage. Having a local person to call when you have questions is priceless when you consider sitting on hold and talking to different representatives with the insurance companies. They work with several different Health Insurance carriers like Blue Cross, United, Sanford, Delta and Medica just to name a few. This team is here to explore the different plans for your specific needs, whether you are an individual, family or in need of a group plan. A lot of people do not understand Medicare and what they are signing up for, and these guys are here to help with that. They can also do an annual review of your prescriptions to compare the drug plans to make sure you are on the correct one. They can review family plans through the marketplace to see if you qualify for a rebate, which a lot of people aren’t aware of. Some of the other coverages offered are dental, vision, disability and long term care plans as well!
701 Healthcare Solutions is located at 24 1st St. NE, Minot ND 58703 in the 701 Realty building. McKenna and Tanner are also licensed Realtors!
You can contact them at 701-852-CARE(2273) or
via email info@701healthins.com
They have a Website 701healthins.com and also a Facebook page.
Give them a call today, they are informed and ready to answer your questions!
Posted on February 2nd, 2024