Health in the Workplace Environment

 Keeping workers healthy in the workplace environment is a goal of many companies.  

It serves the employees well to reap the benefits of good health especially when they are able to use their vacation days for actual vacation time and not sick days.  It serves business owners in the sense that when people feel well their job productivity is increased.

Who doesn’t love a win-win arrangement? Companies across America take initiatives to create a good atmosphere for their employees. It is documented that there is a lower turnover of workers when a business owner cares for their employees, strives to make the workplace agreeable and provides good health benefits.

Having long-term employees is another win-win situation because it offers workers:

• Job security
• Familiarity with coworkers
• Pride in accomplishment
• Intellectual stimulation
• An income to invest in their future
• Finances to pursue their dreams

For the business owner the win-win shows in:

• Workers able to accomplish more
• Workers better able to contribute ideas leading to more productivity
• More profitable teamwork projects
• Less disruption in productivity output
• Less resources in constant retraining new employees
• More cooperative employer/employee relationships

If your company wants to go the extra mile, provide them with access to the best employee health benefits available at Healthestimates.com, an agency that has a BBB top rating for excellent service and works hard to offer savings that make a difference.

Here are some creative inspirations you can incorporate in your company:

New Ideas – your employees understand your company in a way that is different from yours. Tap into their insight for new product ideas, better ways to do business, solve a problem, increase sales, or increase productivity.  Offer a prize to the employee who offers the best idea; gift baskets, diner gift certificates, kindle, iPad, etc. Think about your employees to determine a gift that appeals to them. If you decide on a “cash bonus” include a physical trinket (amusing stuffed animal, mug, picture frame, etc) that will serve as a reminder of their accomplishment.

Perfect Attendance – this one is not announced. Recognize an employee who has not missed work for an extended period of time (barring vacation) with a simple card of appreciation and coffee gift card or similar. Appreciating and noticing an employee’s extra efforts or faithfulness benefits all staff.

Weight Loss Challenge – this is an optional participation in enjoyable competition.  Everyone who wants to participate contributes a token amount between $5 - $10 and the company kicks in a higher contribution.  (It’s more about the activity than the money) Everyone is weighed in and documented. After a period of 60 – 90 days there is another weigh in and the person who has lost the most weight wins the “jackpot.” Getting everyone thinking about better health rewards everyone. To add a little more thoughtfulness, keep a secret and recognize second and third place winners with a token gift such as a healthy meal cookbook, pedometer, or other small health related gift.

Gift Horse – A little pre-planning and lots of fun. This can range from serious to silly, depending on your crew size and their level of good ‘naturedness.’  You get 12 identical small objects (toy figures or other item,  about 2 inches tall, miniature rubber ducks or frogs are easy to find) A nice touch would be if you could make the object humorously work relevant. Number each one. Place them in odd, inconspicuous places (corner of window sill, supply cabinet, lounge refrigerator, etc) Send out memo or make announcement that there are several “toy ???” that have been misplaced and if anyone finds them to please bring them to office. Each toy’s number will correspond with a small gift. Gift items can be themed (different types of candy bars), trinkets (scented candle, unusual snacks, handy items).  If done quarterly, you can have coworkers conspire and add silly personal touches. For instance all gifts consist of a Reese’s peanut butter cup and added contributed items such as “A hug from Sarah”  “A bowl of John’s homemade chili” “Ruthies homemade cookies” “Eric’s favorite movie on DVD.”

All businesses want loyal employees that take an interest in furthering the companies aim. A business owner that creates a work environment that values employees will have workers that value their job.

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Discover the many ways that Aetna Funding Advantage can help your business save Tired of rising health care costs? Switching to a self-funded plan may be easier than you think. It’s time to consider Aetna Funding Advantage. The Advantage opportunity Self-funded plans are more stable. Monthly payments are based on the health trends of your employees. And when health care costs are lower than expected, you get back a percentage of your funds. Control your health care costs with Aetna Funding Advantage, a self-funded plan backed by the strength of Aetna. Savings and much more Not long ago self-funded plans were only considered by larger companies. Then Aetna designed their self-funded plan with your smaller business in mind. It’s time you enjoyed these savings: •You could save up to 25 percent upfront •You could save long-term with the surplus sharing benefit •You could save on taxes and fees •You could save time on health care tracking and reporting. Traditional Funding  Subject to state mandates Limited plan design options No money back Financial protection Community rated Self-Funding Generally not subject to state mandates  More flexible benefit designs Opportunity to get money back Financial protection Monthly costs reflect expected claims Click the link below for the full Aetna Self-Funding Brochure PDF of Aetna Brochure . Jeff Sopko Sopko Insurance Agency 3333 Chicago Road Steger, IL 60475 (800) 324-1004 (800) 324-1003 fax jeff@healthestimates.com http://healthestimates.com

Christmas Safety Tips

December is such a fun month with Christmas family traditions to look forward to. Most people enjoy the flurry of activity and special events to plan and attend. Here is wishing you a happy and safe holiday season.

We Have Put Together Some Old and Some New

 SAFETY REMINDERS 

to Keep in Mind During Our

• Keep your home well lit when you are not home. Automatic timers that can turn lights off and on in various parts of the house are a good plan. Never set them exactly on the hour. You can even set up a radio or your TV to be on.
• Stand in front of your home once during the day, and once after dark. See what a potential intruder may spot as an easy target. Make adjustments as necessary
• BE VERY CAREFUL WITH SOCIAL MEDIA, this is something our parents never had to consider. Unfortunately, there are people who will scour social media to see when you might be attending an activity, a day trip or spending a few days out of town.  If you must post, post AFTER the fact when you have already returned home. EDUCATE YOUR CHILDREN TO DO THE SAME.
• Remember with social media, many strangers are able to access what you write through friend of a friend of a friend . . . and so on. Vandalism and break-ins are no longer just happening at night. Any time of the day is good for a bad guy.
• Christmas packages need special arrangements and thieves are on the lookout to simply swipe a package before it ever enters your home.  Try to schedule them for when you know someone is home. Speak with a trusted neighbor to keep an eye out for when you are expecting a package and ask them to grab it. Make yourself available to do the same for them. If possible, use of online tracking to better gauge when you package will arrive.
• If your workplace will allow it, have packages sent to you at work.
• Make a special effort to NOT BE DISTRACTED while you are shopping and paying for items. Always keep your purse, wallet, and cell phones close. Do not let the business of the season put you at risk for a moment. Plan ahead in your mind how you will handle many stops and transactions using, cash, debit cards or credit cards. As you hurry through check out lines make sure all your stuff is secure.
• As always the safest place for your holiday packages are in the trunk. Do not tempt a thief to break your car windows because they see something appealing inside.
• Naturally be aware of your surroundings, as you load packages into your vehicle.
• Safest home strategy is to have a good relationship with neighbors and keep an eye out for each other. Discuss how you can best help and protect each other’s home and property. Alert each other of special circumstances that might need extra watchfulness. Make sure you have each others numbers so you can text or call when something is in question. Always better safe than sorry.

I admit a little sadness in having an article like this. I wish everyone would just be so happy and wonderful to everyone else. Focus on the delightful. These reminders were to bring a sense of heightened awareness for your safety and the safety of your family.

Merry Christmas!

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News Update: New Hours for Insurance Chicago Heights/Steger, Crete & Suburbs

NEWS UPDATE: Flexible Hours to Serve You Better

Monday - Thursday    9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Friday                       9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Saturday                   9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

     Spring brings us into a different season with much bustle and activity. We have increased our hours to serve you better.

     Spring is also a common time to have your auto insurance policy reviewed to make sure your policy is updated.  This prevents gaps in and also can alert you to new discounts or programs that might interest you.

     Homeowners insurance and life insurance reviews are free.  Changes and additions in your family or home need to be factored in your policy.  Please remember it is important to keep up to date.

     People who have switched to Farmers Insurance have seen an average savings of $691 per year, when both home and auto are carried with us.  

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Medicare Store offers Medicare Supplemental Insurance, Health Insurance

Find the Best Prices on Medicare Supplements, Advantage Plans, Supplemental Health Care and Prescription Drug Plans at our New Medicare Store serving Illinois and Indiana residents. Get your questions personally answered by Certified Specialists that will assist you AT NO COST TO YOU,  We Are Here For The Long Run, we are not an anonymous call center.  This is health insurance made easy!

CALL  (800) 324-1004 MEDICARE STORE or 

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  You will experience the easiest and most convenient way to get your Medicare Supplements, Advantage Plans and Prescription Drug Plans.

  See how easy it is to shop all the carriers at one place with a friendly agent who will strive to help you find the best plan. We offer supplemental insurance from all the major carriers.

     Whether you are new to medicare or looking for a better policy, we offer the most knowledgeable help as we are familiar with all the latest changes made to the health care industry.

     We can explain things to you in simple terms so you don't have to hassle with the insurance lingo that can be confusing.

     We offer 35 years of excellent service that has earned us a trusted A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.

How Do I Find the Best Health Insurance?

Get Covered Illinois and All Major Insurance Carriers

   

     Shopping for low cost health insurance can overwhelm a person very easily with all the choices that are on the market.  WE CAN HELP YOU WITH THAT AT NO COST TO YOU. 

     Our CMS Certified Agents can guide you through the process of  obtaining private medical insurance, Affordable Care Act (ACA ) insurance individual, family, Medicare supplemental, home health care, dental, or critical illness.  In one convenient place you can compare all major carriers to see who can offer you the best deal with the coverage you want. 

     Our Specialists attend special training to keep current with the latest trends, regulations and changes in the health care industry.  This gives them an edge to help you find and apply for the latest programs and discount packages that are available.

     Here is a rundown of concerns you need to be aware of when shopping for health insurance. It is a beneficial thing to be well prepared for medical coverage before you need it. This saves you money because everything you need is in place before hand.  Neglecting this can put yourself or your family in a financial bind. 

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4. Emergency room services                                             
5. In-patient hospital facility                                                       
6. Out-patient care
7. Prescription drug coverage
8. Vision/dental coverage
9. Monthly premiums
10. Deductibe level

     For the best coverage, the option to select from many insurance carriers gives you the advantage. Take advantage of the experts who know and understand the insurance lingo and can explain the pros and cons of each plan.  Also, with personal attention, an Certified Insurance Specialist can know your personal situation helping you make the best match that suits you or your family at this particular time of your life.

    For your convenience our Walk-in Center is staffed with such Certified Insurance Specialists.  You can also get quotes online or phone consultations.

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Visit our walk-in health enrollment center at 3333 Chicago Road, Steger, Illinois we will help you with insurance.

     

Dream Big Teacher Challenge Win $100,000

Charmie McKinney & Kim Scheutrow Receiving Awards

Presented by Jeff Sopko, Farmers Insurance Agent

     Proposals are now being accepted for the Dream Big Teacher Challenge. A contest sponsored by Farmers Insurance that brings to light the importance teachers have in the  lives of their students and in their communities. Teachers in grades Kindergarten through twelve grade are eligible.  Those teachers who have been awarded $2,500 grants for their schools can submit proposals competing with teachers all across the nation.  Submissions must be in by the end of June.

     Encourage any teachers you know to submit their proposals.  In the Steger Community area, teachers were awarded over $40,000 in grant money to bring excellent programs to the community schools.

     Join the community spirit and get involved. This has been an amazing program bringing new programs to engage the students and accelerate learning.

     Farmers Insurance Agency is the proud sponsor of this contest thanking teachers for their hard work. 

Steger Teachers Win Grants for Innovative Programs

Steger Teachers Win Grants for Innovative Programs

By Carmen Santiago

     I am excited to share with you the success of 2014 Thank A Million Teachers Nationwide Contest. Dedicated teachers from the Steger, Illinois area and School District #194 submitted proposals to bring special and unique programs to their schools. The community responded with votes showing their support and we are proud to announce that we had winners from our Steger District.

     Each teacher worked hard to identify ways to enrich the students in their education.  They submitted grant proposals to implement their ideas in their own classrooms or school districts. These programs are creative and exclusively brought to the schools that had winning proposals.  The public could go online, read their proposals and vote for the best ones.

     We are pleased to announce winners from our area each winning a $2,500 grant.

Nicole Ciaponni, Beth  Dwyer, Heather Goetz, Holly Lopez, Charmie McKinney, Bill Moses, Mary Reed, Kim Scheutzow, and Nicole William-Roat.

     We would also like to thank Jeff Sopko of Sopko Insurance Agency for his hard work in helping to promote the event and networking to win votes for local community teachers.  His contribution of $1,400 for advertising material, banners, flyers and T-shirts, $400 in Kmart gift cards awarded to students helping spread the word to vote and $900 in food and prizes.

     The students of this community will participate in innovative and enrichment programs brought exclusively to Steger Schools.  Again, we would like to offer many thanks to Jeff Sopko, for helping bring a total of $32,500 for bright futures in Steger, Illinois.

Sincerely,

                                                                                       

Community Voices of Steger

                                                       

Motorcycle Insurance - Motorcycle Events

    Get cheap rates on motorcycle insurance if you live in Illinois or Indiana.  Save money with one-stop assessment quotes from the Sopko Insurance Agency.  This affordable insurance can be customized to fit your specific needs.

Insure your motorcycle is ready for the road ahead. Scenic motorcycle journeys await in Illinois' Land of Lincoln. Low cost motorcycle insurance helps get you on the way simply with money to spare for scenic escapes.

Special Motorcycle Events are forming all across Illinois.  Whether you are a seasoned rider or just getting ready to spread your wings, you will enjoy the camaraderie  in biking with others.  People from all walks of life enjoy thousands of scenic miles in Illinois and Indiana.

Choose from short day excursions sampling breakfast, lunch and dinner from hidden treasure restaurants spanning over many miles or sign up for a longer trip.  Planned by seasoned bikers you will travel through breathtaking nature routes and enjoy leisurely meals and  activities.   

    We offer low rates on Motorcycle Insurance that will give you excellent coverage.  We will make sure you get the best rate on comprehensive coverage for your motorcycle.  Save even more with bundle packages.  Our expert agents will help you understand your policy coverage thoroughly so you can rest assured that you and everything important to you is covered properly. 

  We offer coverage for your motorcycle, medical, motorcycle gear, and roadside assistance. You may also be eligible for discounts for safety courses taken or being selected for a preferred operator class.  Call us for your FREE QUOTE Today or your FREE REVIEW of your current policy.

   See why we are the best at great coverage for a low rate on motorcycle insurance.   Also ask about our great rates on Jet Ski and Recreational Vehicle Insurance.

Thank America's Teachers - $100,000 Dream Big Teacher Challenge

     Farmers Insurance Agency announces it Dream Big Teacher Challenge.
A unique initiative for people all across America to go on-line and personally thank any teacher present or former.
     In addition to thanking a teacher, you can vote for a proposal to help a teacher receive a $2,500 grant for a school educational project.  Creative minds all over America have submitted project proposals that could lead to community dollars for their school.  These dedicated teachers are working hard to bring innovative opportunities to the children they serve.

Our Local Teachers Being Sponsored

K. Husarik        Parkview Elementary School

M. Lorenzatti    Parkview Elementary School

      K. Burgan         Columbia Central Jr. High School

A. Schaaf         Parkview Elementary School

     MARCH VOTING IS HAPPENING NOW!

     Anyone can cast their votes for one or all of their teacher's proposals in their local communities or across the country.  You can even vote once per day. Winners will be announced in April.  

     This grant proposal contest has three seasonal phases.  Three amazing chances for teachers to secure $2,500 for advanced learning for their students. Proposal winners will then be able to apply for the $100,000 Grand Prize Dream Big Challenge.

Contest Period          Teacher Proposal        Public Votes           Winners

                                         Submissions                                          Announced

__________________________________________________________

SPRING                         FEBRUARY                 MARCH               APRIL

SUMMER                            MAY                       JUNE                 JULY

FALL                        AUGUST/SEPTEMBER       OCTOBER           NOVEMBER

________________________________________________________________

     We encourage you to thank a teacher, vote for proposals and help get the word out.  Encourage your school districts teachers to submit proposals for summer and fall seasons.  Working together to bring the best in educational opportunities to students in your area.

     For the benefit of our children, it is wonderful to have a 

VOTE EARLY & OFTEN 

Community involvement project we can all participate in.

Visit

Dream Big Teacher Challenge

                                                                                                                                                      

                                                                                                                                                      

                                                                                                                                                               .  auto insurance   home insurance      life insurance     motorcycle insurance   .

Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance - Enroll Now

    

 Interested in getting Blue Cross Blue Shield health insurance? One of the most accepted insurances that will provide coverage no matter where you live.  If you are familiar with Blue Cross Blue Shield and want to sign up we have easy ways to get your covered fast.

     We have extended hours to help with Walk-in Enrollment for health insurance.  We can answer your questions about Blue Cross and Blue Shield and help you obtain your policy.  Also available are comparison shopping rates for other insurance plans that offer the equivalent of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Plans. Our highly trained staff can actually find insurance carriers you may not know about that have an excellent reputation for health coverage and ease of claims at a price that fits your budget.

     If you are unable to use our Walk-in Enrollment center; you can call us and we will help you over the phone. No need to leave your home for personal friendly help. We do not outsource, so you will be assisted by American Professionals who will also be available in the future for any questions, concerns or follow-up you may need.  You will not be shuffled to anonymous “command centers” that help you in the beginning and then give you the runaround when questions or emergencies arise.

     For increased flexibility and for those who are comfortable using the internet we offer quick and easy quotes online.  This process has been streamlined by consumer request to give you the ease of simplified shopping.

     We make the process easy for you. We have been helping people for over 35 years and have an A+ Rating with the Better Business Bureau.

Call Us Now for dependable service that puts you first.

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Best Tips for the New Year: A Checklist

Best Tips for the New Year

     Start the New Year right with this list of reminders to accomplish before your year gets hectic.  Tips include family safety, financial and personal goals. Take care of it early and be ten steps ahead of everyone else. This way you can work on your personal goals with the peace of mind that you have taken care of those basics.

Family Safety

HEALTH INSURANCE ENROLLMENT OR REVIEW

 Avoid fines for not having insurance, have an insurance review done because new networks in the marketplace can save you money. This service is free and gives you a chance to get questions answered and understand policy particulars before the need arises.

FIRE ALARMS, CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS, SECURITY SYSTEMS

Test or replace batteries, make sure systems are in correct working order, dust free and area is free from clutter.

CELL PHONES AND EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION

Review and updates contacts on cell phones. Sometimes switching phones or service provider does result in new numbers. Make sure your family contacts are up to date and children, elderly parents have current contacts.  If emergency contacts/numbers have changed, update with schools, employment and necessary individuals.

AUTO INSURANCE AND HOME INSURANCE

Spring in the time most people have these reviewed. Get it done early and avoid the rush.

Financial

BUDGET

Review your budget. Make sure it is written down on paper. Assess where you can save money. Use this base as a springboard for planning new goals this year. Focus on increasing savings and reducing debt.

HOLIDAY FORESIGHT

If possible, plan to set aside money monthly for the holidays. You would be amazed how much easier the holiday season is when you start in January. (I learned this from of mom of eight). Include a post holiday amount where you save buying items on clearance after the holidays for next year. Also note gift ideas through out the year and pick up items as you catch them on sale. This will definitely stretch your holiday dollars.

INCREASE INCOME

Look for opportunities to earn a little extra by investing in interest bearing accounts, part-time work, or free-lancing on a per project basis.  Use this increase for your savings, vacation or major purchase and keep your budget happily on track.

Personal

GOALS

Write down your personal goals and keep them where you will see them often to remind you what your working to accomplish. Help your children set goals to accomplish and nuture them to keep on track. Some crafty ways to keep them close at hand, make bookmarks with goals on them, decorate a dry erase or chalk board with theme and keep list on wall in your room, Use a notepage in pocket/purse calendar to write goals down and check them off as you accomplish them.

NEW EXPERIENCE

Plan to learn a new skill, cook a new dish or try something you never experienced before. New experiences feed you in a way that nothing else can.

VOLUNTEER

Give of yourself to a cause you believe in. You can volunteer as little as 2 hours a month and still make a difference. Volunteering can be as simple as helping a neighbor with their needs, or helping a community project or non-profit organization. Get your family involved and help them find their interests in causes. Kids who give of their time expecting nothing in return acquire better social skills, good morals, world understanding and more maturity then those who don’t. Also this networking will help them later in life as connections made can increase opportunity doors that will open to them.

Have a great new year!

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Vote For Nicole Williams' Proposal in Thank A Million Teachers Contest

Mrs. Nicole  Williams
Thank A Million Teachers Contestant

      Insurance contest Thank A Million Teachers announces Nicole Williams as one of the finalists eligible to win a $2,500 grant for her proposal.

       Nicole Williams is an English Teacher at Columbia Central Junior High School in Steger, Illinois. She teaches English to six, seventh and eighth grade students.  Her love of English planted the seed of becoming a teacher at a young age. She shared a meaningful testimony of how her family’s support and encouragement during her college years helped her manage her life and studies.  She accomplished her Internship with a high school English teacher and acquired her direction for her dream job. Though she did research other positions within her field, none held the appeal for her that serving as an English Teacher did. 

         Her proposal for what she would do with the grant money is quite innovative. She has recognized each student has an individual reading comprehension level no matter what grade they are in. Her goal is to provide subject books in various reading levels, to be utilized in the same classroom. This would help a teacher teach the core subject, keeping all students current while still accommodating those whose comprehension levels still need to mature and helping accelerated students maintain interest by allowing each mind the challenge it craves.  Her proposal could pioneer a more customized approach to teaching that could be used as a model for schools across the nation. This program would benefit students for years to come.

   Mrs. Williams shared some of her secrets to successful teaching. Naturally, before she began teaching she had her own notions of how the classroom setting would be. In true teacher spirit of always learning; she found ways to work with each class that was surprisingly different.  Each grade and each class had an atmosphere of its own. Mrs. Williams would adjust her classroom management skills to suit the environment of the classroom. What worked easily for one class, did not work for another. She investigated and found the right touch to make each classroom successful. She has the gift of humor that her students appreciate and she always makes learning fun.  She rises to the challenge of finding a way to connect with her students enabling them to master the subjects at hand.  

   She is quite aware other teachers have their own gifting and easily asks for help when she sees an area that could be improved.  This teacher is part of a group that shares new ideas, tips and ways to incorporate new technology in the classroom.

    Her personal rewards come from seeing her students “light bulb” moments and watching them blossom over the years. She would like all the students in her school to have the same advantages to learning as other communities have.

   Paul Preuss, Director of Curriculum of District 194 spoke highly of Mrs. Williams noting her gift for innovation and her willingness to take a risk to advance education. Her talent for seeing a problem, need or challenge and finding a better way to accomplish it makes her an outstanding teacher.

   The Best of Luck to You Mrs. Nicole Williams and Thank You for Your Creative Innovations!

VOTE For Nicole Williams Proposal at www.thankamillionteachers.com