Benefit Advisors Stase' Fink Honored With Extra Effort Award

The Ocala/Marion County Women’s Council of Realtors, a professional networking group of local realtors and affiliates, awarded Benefit Advisors Agent Stasé M. Fink with its 2010 Extra Effort Award.

 Stasé has been an affiliate member of the Women’s Council of Realtors since 2006. Her decision to join the organization came after giving a business presentation at one of its meetings and realizing what a “fun, supportive and concerned” group of individuals made up the membership base. She became a member the very next meeting.

“It’s a place for me to go and take off the multiple hats I wear everyday and just be Stasé Fink,” she said. 

Stasé is very active in the organization, always finding ways to stay involved and lend a helping hand. She is currently serving as the Treasurer, the highest office an affiliate member can hold. Previously, Stasé has served on the New Member Committee and worked the Hospitality table at monthly meetings, in addition to being named the Affiliate of the Year in 2008.

Tip Tuesday: Health Reform Hits Main Street

Confused about how the new health reform law really works? This short, animated movie -- featuring the "YouToons" -- explains the problems with the current health care system, the changes that are happening now, and the big changes coming in 2014

Health Reform Hits Main Street - Kaiser Health Reform

Until Next Week,
Michelle

And The Winner Has Been Named...

Congratulations to

Joanne Alderman

She is now the new owner of an Apple iPad courtesy of Benefit Advisors

Tip Tuesday: Facts You Should Know About Vision

Studies confirm the universal need for a comprehensive vision care program. Below are a few of the findings:

• 75% of adults use some form of vision correction.
• Nearly 90 percent of those who use a computer as little as three hours a day suffer vision problems associated with computer eye strain.
• Consumer interest in their eye health is strong. Consider that while only six out of 10 people need vision correction, more than eight out of 10 say a vision plan is important to them.

While a comprehensive benefits plan isn't always financial feasible for today's employer, consider offering specialty benefits - including vision - to your employees as a benefit of working for you. They won't be disappointed!

Until Next Week,
Michelle

Source: UnitedHealthcare Specialty Benefits Vision

Stay Tuned For The Announcement...

Will you be the lucky winner?

Tip Tuesday: 7 Ways To Be Happier During the Holidays!

It's one of the most celebrated holidays of the year, but with the presents, great food and family time, comes inevitable stress! This year, take time to savor the moments by truly enjoying the holidays!

While researching for today's blog post, I came across an article by Lucy Danziger of Self Magazine. She has come up with 7 great ways to be - and stay - happier this month.


From budgeting, to self-confidence, to the in-laws, Danziger has a solution for you!


Click here to read how to be happier this holiday season!


Until Next Week,
M.J.


AND don't forget....Only ONE WEEK left to take our survey to win an Apple iPad, just in time for Christmas! Get started now!

2011 Preventative Care Guidelines from BCBSFL

Under the Affordable Care Act, you and your family may be eligible for some important preventive services—which can help you avoid illness and improve your health—at no additional cost to you.

BlueCross BlueShield of Florida has just released its 2011 Preventative Care Guidelines: To discuss with your Health Care Provider. Click here to view the comprehensive document.

Now, more than ever, it is time to take charge of your health and start living a healthy lifestyle. With that said, here's another great health tip resource from BCBSFL: It’s never too late to establish healthy habits and lower your risk for heart disease and other chronic conditions. Obesity is the second leading cause of preventable death in the United States.

• Eat more fruits and vegetables and choose low-calorie, high fiber foods.

• Get active and consult your physician on the appropriate amount of physical activity.

• Take advantage of preventive benefits included with your plan.

• Stay healthy; know and keep track of your numbers regularly for blood pressure, cholesterol (LDL & HDL) and Body Mass Index (BMI).

Please note: Be sure to verify your benefits for preventive services. These recommendations were developed as a guide for BCBSFL members and are not intended to replace your physician’s judgment.

Until Next Week,
Michelle

Tip Tuesday: You Could Win An Apple iPad!!!

We all know the iPad is a serious contender this year on Santa’s gifting radar….so why not take one home just in time for the holidays and let Santa off the hook for a change? Benefit Advisors is excited to announce its inaugural Facebook iPad Contest. Entry is SIMPLE….complete a short, five question survey and “like” our Benefit Advisors Facebook page for one entry into the drawing. But wait…want more than one chance to win? Simply forward the survey to your friends and family that qualify and if they name you in Q5 as the referrer, you will be entered again into the drawing pool. The number of entries per person is unlimited, so start telling everyone you know today!

OFFICIAL SURVEY RULES: OFFER AVAILABLE TO FLORIDA RESIDENTS ONLY. This is an official survey conducted by Benefit Advisors (www.benefit-advisors.com) for a chance to win an Apple iPad. Each question must be answered truthfully and to the best of your knowledge in order to qualify for the grand prize. All entries are due by Monday, December 20 at 5 p.m. Each survey participant will be entered ONCE into the drawing. Increase your chances of winning by telling your friends about the sweepstakes! For every person that completes the survey (and names you as the referrer in Q5) you'll receive one more entry to win! Drawing will take place on Tuesday, December 21 and the winner will be contacted via e-mail no later than Wednesday, December 23.

Good luck. Until Next Week,

M.J.

Tip Tuesday: Enjoy your Thanksgiving!!

All of us at Benefit Advisors are wishing you and your family....
A Happy & Safe Thanksgiving!

Enjoy all the turkey and pie! :)

Until Next Week,
MJ

Tip Tuesday on Wednesday: Managing stress in the workplace is important!

Apologies for not posting this week's tip yesterday. With that said, here is BA's Tip Tuesday on Wednesday:

Recently, the news has been reporting on the effects suffered by women who have highly stressful jobs. In fact, it has been reported that women in these types of professional positions up their odds of suffering a heart attack or stroke by 88 percent (according to a study released on Sunday at an American Heart Associated meeting in Chicago).

So, what can women (& men alike) do to help lower their stress levels in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle? Well, according to Dr. Michelle Albert (interviewed by today.com), there a few things everyone can do to help eliminate or lessen the stress:

1. Exercise. It clears the mind, lifts the mood and curbs other heart risks, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol.

2. Limit bringing work home.

3. Get a life. Do things with friends, whether they're folks you work with or not.

4. Build "me time" into every day. It can be as little as 10 or 15 minutes to meditate, pray or take a walk

Tip Tuesday: Join The Great American Smokeout!!

The American Cancer Society is marking the 35th Great American Smokeout on November 18 by encouraging smokers to use the date to make a plan to quit, or to plan in advance and quit smoking that day. By doing so, smokers will be taking an important step towards a healthier life – one that can lead to reducing cancer risk. Quitting smoking is not easy, but it can be done. To have the best chance of quitting successfully, you need to know what you're up against, what your options are, and where to go for help.

Many insurance carriers, like BlueCross BlueShield of Florida are also offering tools to current members to help with smoking cessation. According to BCBSFL, "There’s a FREE Smoking Cessationprogram on MyBlueService. Your employees will get everyday tips and tools to helpthem stop smoking for good. Simply go to the Living Healthy section, select WellnessPrograms and then Smoking Cessation."

Until Next Week,

MJ

Tip Tuesday: A Look At the Impact on Small Groups from BlueCross BlueShield of Florida

Happy Tuesday Bloggers!

I am very pleased to be back in the office and hard at work after a wonderful wedding/honeymoon. I hope you enjoyed the last two posts from our guest blogger, Mr. Caleb Bourque.

This week's tip tuesday is courtesy of BlueCross BlueShield of Florida and is a closer look at the benefits of Health Care Reform, provisions, mandates and grandfather status.

Please click here to view the document.

I hope everyone had a safe and Happy Halloween!

Until Next Week,
Michelle Jarvis

Tip Tuesday: Keep Halloween Safety in Mind!

It's that time of year again...ghosts, goblins, costumes & candy! While Halloween is an exciting holiday for children and adults of all ages, there are several precautions to be mindful of to ensure you're in for nothing but a treat(s)!

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) stresses the importance of taking the proper steps to avoid injuries this Halloween.


The following are the AMERICAN ACADEMY OF ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEONS SAFETY TIPS:

• Never let children carve pumpkins. Adults carving pumpkins should remember to use specifically designed carving knives, rather than kitchen knives, as they are less likely to get stuck in the thick pumpkin skin. Carve the pumpkin in small, controlled strokes, away from oneself on a strong, sturdy surface.
• Carving knives should be kept in a clean, dry, well-lit area. Any moisture on the tools, hands, or table can cause the knife to slip, leading to injuries.
• Should a pumpkin carver cut a finger or hand, make sure the hand is elevated higher than the heart and apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth to stop the bleeding. If continuous pressure does not slow or stop the bleeding after 15 minutes, an emergency room visit may be necessary. Additionally, it may be wise to follow up with a hand surgeon to make sure everything is okay and nothing needs repair.
• Be considerate of fire hazards when lighting jack-o-lantern candles or use non-flammable light sources, like glow sticks or artificial pumpkin lights. Alternatively, try painting pumpkins for a fun, creative option and remove the risks of carving.
• Halloween costumes should be light and bright, so children are clearly visible to motorists and other pedestrians. Trim costumes and bags with reflective tape that glows in the dark.
• Costumes should be flame-resistant and fit properly. Be sure the child's vision is unobstructed from masks, face paint or hats. Costumes that are too long may cause kids to trip and fall, trim or hem their costumes as necessary.
• Children should wear sturdy, comfortable, slip-resistant shoes to avoid falls.
• It is important that children walk on sidewalks and never cut across yards or driveways. They should also obey all traffic signals and remain in designated crosswalks when crossing the street.
• Trick-or-treaters should only approach houses that are well lit. Both children and parents should carry flashlights to see and be seen.
• Be aware of neighborhood dogs when trick-or-treating and remember that these pets can impose a threat when you approach their home.
• It's also a good idea to carry a cell phone while trick-or-treating in case of an emergency.

Happy Halloween!

Caleb Bourque

Tip Tuesday: Regular Check-ups Are Important

Scheduling regular check-ups is the best way to take control of your health -- and the best part is: The Affordable Care Act is now requiring some important preventative services be covered under your current health plan at no additional cost to you.


According to the CDC, "Regular health exams and tests can help find problems before they start. They also can help find problems early, when your chances for treatment and cure are better. By getting the right health services, screenings, and treatments, you are taking steps that help your chances for living a longer, healthier, life. Your age, health and family history, lifestyle choices (i.e. what you eat, how active you are, whether you smoke), and other important factors impact what and how often you need services and screenings."

Under the new legislation, depending on your age, you may have free access to such preventive serices as:

• Blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol test;
• Many cancer screenings, inclduing mammograms and colonoscopies;
• Counseling from your health care provider on such topics as quitting smoking, losing weight, eating healthfully, treating depression, and reducing alcohol use;
• Routine vaccinations against diseases such as measles, polio, or meningitis;
• Counseling, screening, and vaccines to ensure healthy pregnancies;
• Regular well-baby and well-child visists, from birth to age 21;

For more information on preventative services and the Affordable Care Act, please visit HealthCare.gov

Caleb Bourque

Tip Tuesday: Proper Sleep Can Help Fight Cancer - Or Even Prevent It!

In lieu of breast cancer awareness month, I thought I would post one of the ways to help prevent - or even fight - cancer, and it's a surprisingly simple task: SLEEP. According to an article on Reader's Digest.com Fight Cancer with Sleep by Ellen Michaud with Julie Bain, "While you sleep, your immune system produces some of your body's most effective cancer-fighting weapons."

So, while browsing for some sleep remedies in preparation for today's blog, I came across an article from CNN Health outlining several doctor-recommended sleep aids. These simple aids may help to ensure you are getting the appropriate amount of sleep each night, rather than the restless, "counting sheep" kinda nights many of us are all too familiar with.

1. Aromatherapy
2. Valerian tea
3. GABA-enhanced drink
4. Melatonin supplement
5. Over-the-counter sleeping pill
6. Prescription medication

To read the full article on when to try each remedy, how to use them and what you should know about each, click here.

Remember to Think Pink this month!

Michelle

*On a side note, I am excited to announce the next two Tip Tuesdays will be written by a guest blogger, Mr. Caleb Bourque. Caleb is a marketing assistant and customer service representative for Benefit Advisors in its Jacksonville office. To learn more about Caleb, click here to view his employee bio.

I will be out of the office beginning Monday, October 18 and will not be returning until Tuesday, November 2 because I'M GETTING MARRIED! :) I will be back to regular blogs the week I return. Until then bloggers!

Tip Tuesday: Breast Cancer Awareness Month Celebrates 26 Years!

The pink ribbon is an American staple - one symbolizing the courage and strength of all those affected by breast cancer. As the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month Association (NBCAM) celebrates 26 years of awareness, education and empowerment, let's all remember to join in the fight for a cure.

At Benefit Advisors, we are proud to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month and we hope you will too!

This month, think pink!

For more information on Breast Cancer Awareness Month, please visit the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Web site or the official NBCAM Web site.

Until Next Week,
Michelle D.

Tip Tuesday: Setting the Record Straight on the W-2 Panic

I recently read an online article from EmployeeBenefit News that did a great job of discussing the recent rumors on health care reform and the implications it will have on tax deductions for both employers and employees.

Despite the panic, you may be surprised to learn that the changes aren't what they seem.

As this week's Tip Tuesday, I'd like to share this article with you. Click here to read it now.

Enjoy!

Until Next Week,
Michelle D.

Tip Tuesday: FDA Is Considering New Restrictions on Cough Medicine

Happy Tuesday bloggers!

Today's post is a little bit different, but extremely important all the same. If any of you have been following the news the last few days, I'm sure you've heard the buzz about a possible FDA ban on cough medicine. That's right, in the near future, you may be required to furbish a prescription to purchase Robitussin or other current over-the-counter cough syrups.

Why, you ask, are the days of heading to the neighborhood drug store to pick up some cough syrup for an at-home remedy possibly over??

Well, it's all stemming from a new epidemic among teens called robotripping or DXM. A recent study found that 8 percent of all teens have admitted to participating in this behavior, which is characterized by drinking a bottle of Robitussin cough syrup (containg DXM), with the intention of purposely hallucinating.

And the consequences are even worse.

Drinking one or more bottles of cough syrup and/or mixing it with alcohol can cause the following:

1. Irregular Heart Beat
2. Seizures
3. Brain Damage
4. Loss of ConsciousnessDeath

So, if you are the parent of a teen or young adult, make sure to talk to them about the dangers of engaging in this type of behavior. Or, better yet, only keep these medicines on hand when an ailment strikes.

For more information:
Watch Today's video segment here or visit Five Moms, a campaign to stop cough medicine abuse, by clicking here.

Until Next Week,
Michelle D.

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photo credit: drugfreehomes.com

Tip Tuesday: 7 Diet Tricks That Really Work

Can't seem to drop the bulge? Well, here are seven tips I came across this week that have been proven to work! Why not give them a try and see for yourself....


1. Avoid corn syrup - That's right folks, say bye-bye to the sodas once and for all.

2. Don't let junk food warp your brain - Recent studies suggest that junk food can affect the brain in ways similar to drug abuse.

3. Structure meal and snack times

4. Satisfy the body -- especially at breakfast

5. Favor foods low on the glycemic index, or closer to nature

6. Change your environment - It could be as simple as swapping out your dinner plates for smaller ones.

7. Savor your food! Slow down, what's the hurry?


Until Next Week,
Michelle D.


Want to know more, click here to read the full story.
Source: LiveScience.com

Get INSTANT Life Insurance Quotes TODAY!

Instant life quotes have arrived on benefit-advisors.com!! You can now get instant life insurance quotes with the click of a button -- via our Web site -- allowing you to compare several term life insurance products with A-rated carriers like Cincinnati Life and Minnesota Life.

Wondering what the benefits of term life insurance are? Click here to be directed to a JD Power Business Center article for consumers.

If you like what you see, simply request an application and one of our life insurance specialists will contact you shortly!

Until Next Week,
Michelle D.

Tip Tuesday: Be Aware of the HIRE ACT & SAVE!

Since unveiling our payroll department here at Benefit Advisors, we have been busy doing our homework in order to educate our customers on new and upcoming policies and procedures that may affect your business.

A recent payroll hot button? The HIRE Act. Come to find out, many aren't even aware it exists.

So, what is it you ask?

Well, according the IRS Web site, "Under the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act, enacted March 18, 2010, two new tax benefits are available to employers who hire certain previously unemployed workers (“qualified employees”).

The first, referred to as the payroll tax exemption, provides employers with an exemption from the employer’s 6.2 percent share of social security tax on wages paid to qualifying employees, effective for wages paid from March 19, 2010 through December 31, 2010.

In addition, for each qualified employee retained for at least 52 consecutive weeks, businesses will also be eligible for a general business tax credit, referred to as the new hire retention credit, of 6.2 percent of wages paid to the qualified employee over the 52 week period, up to a maximum credit of $1,000."

For more informatiom, visit the IRS.gov Questions and Answers Page for Employers by clicking here.

For a HIRE Act User Guide, courtesy of Infinisource and Benefit Advisors Payroll Division, please click here.

I hope you've found today's blog especially helpful!

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Until Next Week,

Michelle D.

Source: IRS.gov

Tip Tuesday: Tax Credit For Small Groups

Under the Affordable Care Act, the Internal Revenue Services issued guidance to encourage small groups to offer health care coverage for the first time or enable them to maintain the coverage they currently have. IRS Notice 2010-44 provides guidelines to help small group employers determine whether they qualify for the credit and estimate the amount of the credit.

If you are a small employer (business or tax-exempt) that provides health insurance coverage to your employees, determine if you may qualify for the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit by clicking here and following three simple steps.

Until Next Week,
Michelle D.

Tip Tuesday: BenefitAdvisors.Com Now Offers Some Great Features For YOU and YOUR BUSINESS!

Recently, we have put forth a significant amount of time and effort in making our Web site, www.benefit-advisors.com, as accessible to our customers and prospects as possible.

We didn't just get a face life - we got a complete makeover!

In the ever changing world of social media and online activity, we recognize it is more important than ever to offer consumers access to products and services through multiple medias. So, as the saying goes, "there's a better way with Benefit Advisors" -- and we are living up to it!

Here at Benefit Advisors, we are very pleased with our agency's desire to meet and exceed the needs of our customers by staying flexible and adjusting our business plan to suit the market demands.

But that's enough bragging already! What's are all of these "changes" I'm talking about? Well, here's a little sneak peek of what's now available at www.benefitadvisors.com:

Chat with An Agent: Don't want to pick up the phone? No problem. Don't feel like waiting for a response to an e-mail? No problem. Now, you can chat with an agent in real time and get your questions answered in the stroke of a key! If we're offline, simply click on the "Live Chat" button available at the bottom of every page and leave a message, we will get back to you promptly.

Online Quoting: Not only can you compare your individual & family rates among multiple A+ carriers, but you can fill out quote requests online for group health insurance, workers' compensation, payroll, business liability & more!

Term/Status Changes: Are you a client of Benefit Advisors? If so, we have recently introduced a new service to help make employee terminations and status changes more efficient. You can now do it all online! Just visit our Web site and click on the "Service & Support" tab and select "term or status change." Once our agents process the request, you will still receive your confirmation e-mail that it has been completed.

Find An Agent: Looking for someone local? We have agents all throughout Florida. Click on the "Find an Agent" tab to contact the one nearest you - because here at Benefit Advisors we support "buy local."

I hope you'll enjoy the new changes & updates. As always, we welcome your feedback and suggestions. If you'd like to see something added to our Web site, we'd love to hear that too. You can comment on our blog or feel free to shoot me an e-mail.

Until Next Week,
Michelle D.

Tip Tuesday: You Can Get a FREE Membership The Month of August At YMCA of Marion County

GET MOVING MARION COUNTY! If you're ready to take the 10,000 steps a day challenge from the Marion County YMCA, then you can receive a one-month trial membership during the month of August.

The YMCA is challenging residents to get fit through its month-long Get Moving Marion County health challenge. All Get Moving registrants will receive a free pedometer to track their 10,000 steps each day.

Simply register today or on July 31 (the official kickoff) to participate! Visit the Marion County YMCA at 3200 SE 17th Street, Ocala, FL 34471 or call 352-368-9622 for more information. You can also visit http://www.tryytoday.com/.

If you are interested, please feel free to drop by Benefit Advisors and Lossing Strickland Insurance Group to pick up your Get Moving card today!

I hope to see you at the kickoff this Saturday!

Until Next Week,
Michelle D.

Benefit Advisors Named to Top 100 Best Companies to Work for in Florida For the Second Year In a Row!

For the second year in a row, Benefit Advisors has been named one of Florida’s Best Companies To Work For, ranked seventh in the small business category, up from #17 in 2009.

One-hundred companies were recognized in small, medium and large company categories. The rankings – the second annual statewide Best Companies list – appear in the August issue Florida Trend and on FloridaTrend.com.

The Best Companies To Work For in Florida program was created by Florida Trend and Best Companies Group and endorsed by the HR Florida State Council.

“Companies that retain the best employees with strong workplace programs are frequently the very same companies that serve their clients exceptionally well," says Florida Trend Publisher Andrew Corty. "It's our pleasure to recognize these great companies and encourage others to join them in building Florida's competitive advantage."

To be considered for participation, companies or government entities had to employ at least 15 workers in Florida and be at least a year old.

Companies that chose to participate in the Best Companies To Work For in Florida process underwent a two-part survey process. The first part consisted of evaluating each company's workplace policies, practices, philosophy, systems and demographics. The second part consisted of an employee survey to measure employee satisfaction. The combined scores determined the top companies and the final ranking. Best Companies Group managed the overall registration, survey and analysis process and determined the final rankings. Companies were not required to pay a participation fee to go through the online assessment process.

“For our coverage this year we looked carefully at the survey results to focus on the practices that distinguish the best companies from the rest. The surveys show that while employees like “bells and whistles’’ types of benefits, the companies that make the list all are very good at the basics — especially at communicating with their employees and offering training and opportunities to work creatively. This year’s stories are a great how-to guide for companies looking to improve,” says Mark Howard, executive editor.

For a complete list of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in Florida, go to http://www.floridatrend.com/best_companies.asp.

Tip Tuesday: Get healthy on the go...

...with BlueCross BlueShield of Florida Mobile. It's a mobile Web site designed for everyone - both members and non members, providing access to health information and tools on the go.

BCBSFL Mobile works on any smartphone - Blackberry, iPhone, Droid and even the iPad. Just type in bcbsfl.com from your mobile browser.

The following are just a glimpse of what the mobile site can offer you:

EVERYONE

• Find a doctor
• Get current weather conditions, allergy, asthma and other health-related alerts
• Real-time health event info based on your GPS location
• Contests, trivia and fun - enter to win prizes
• Health facts and information
• Download free ringtones
• Social media sharing

MEMBERS ONLY

• All of the above, +
• View your coverage and benefits
• View ID Card
• Find a doctor in the provider directory customized to your plan
• Compare drug prices
• 24 hours nurse line

For more information, visit BCBSFL's Web site.

And just another perk for registering - they are giving away $25 iTunes gift cards!

Enjoy & good luck!

Until Next Week,

Michelle D.

Looking For Insurance Coverage With a Pre-Existing Condition?

Look no further. The Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan was created to make health insurance available to you if you have had a problem getting insurance due to a pre-existing condition.

The Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan will cover:

• A broad range of health benefits, including primary and specialty care, hospital care, and prescription drugs.
• Doesn’t charge you a higher premium just because of your medical condition.
• Doesn’t base eligibility on income.

There are few requirements to meet before you can enroll in the Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan.

• You must be a citizen or national of the United States or lawfully present in the United States.
• You must have been uninsured for at least the last six months.
• You must have had a problem getting insurance due to a pre-existing condition.

For more information, or to apply today, please click here.

As always, please feel free to contact a Benefit Advisors agent with any questions by calling toll-free (888) 479-0490.

Until Next Week,

Michelle D.

Tip Tuesday: Beat the Heat!

For starters, I hope everyone had a wonderful Fourth of July weekend, despite the on-going rainfall we experienced in Central Florida! I sure had a grand ol' time celebrating America's birthday with my family and friends.

So, now that July is in full swing, it also means summer - and its heat - are here to stay, at least for the next few months. Are you prepared to beat the heat?

Here are some tips to help you beat & treat seven of summer's ailments.

Tip 1: Schedule physical activity for cooler times.

Tip 2: Dress in light, loose, cotton clothing.

Tip 3: Use sunscreen!!! At least SPF 15.

Tip 4: When working outside, make sure you take time to rest in a cool area.

Tip 5: HYDRATE! Drink lots of water. Don't wait until you feel thirsty, this means you have already become dehydrated. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.

Tip 6: Never leave children or pets inside a car, even if the windows are open.

Tip 7: If you are taking medication, ask your doctor about the side-effects. Believe it or not, some medications may make you sunburn more easily.

Tip 8: Keep cool with fans, air conditioning and cool baths or showers.

Tip 9: Stay rested!

Tip 10: Eat nutritious, non-fatty meals - preferably foods high in water content.

Until Next Week,
Michelle D.

Source: Women's Fitness.net

Tip Tuesday: Eat This, Not That!

The popular best selling no-diet weight loss solution books are now on the Web! Eat This, Not That! has some great resources for men and women of ALL ages!

Below are a few of the online articles I found rather interesting - and surprising! I hope you will too...

The Best Foods You've Never Heard Of

6 Rules of Good Nutrition

The Unhealthiest Salads in America - Make that the 15 MOST Atrocious Salads

Enjoy!

Until Next Week,
Michelle D.

Health Tip: Eating Good Doesn't Have To Taste Bad

Father's Day is Sunday and what a better treat than to prepare a delicious menu for Dad. I don't know about you, but when I think of a Dad's appetite, I think of burgers, steaks and potato chips = lots of extra calories and fat! Stop right there, it doesn't have to be and I'm sure Dad can agree!

Visit EatingWell.com for a comprehensive listing of Father's Day recipe ideas. This year, give Dad the gift of good food and good health!!

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HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!

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Until Next Week,

Michelle D.

Tip Tuesday: Take Precautions to Make Summer Play Safe

With only one more day of school before summer break, now is the time to make sure you have childproofed your home - and your backyard!

Something that usually gets overlooked? The swingset. Make sure its secure before your kids break for summer vacation this week.

The U.S. National Safety Council offers these suggestions:

1. Make sure the set is sturdy and can accommodate your child's growth.
2. Ensure that the set is stable by installing the legs in concrete or with anchors. Make sure it's secured below ground level to avoid a tripping hazard.
3. Make sure all bolts and screws are covered.
4. Avoid swingsets with "S" hooks, or rough and sharp areas.
5. Look for slides that aren't too steep -- a maximum of 30 degrees. Borders on each side of the slide should be at least 2 1/2 inches, and there should be a flat area at the base of the slide near the ground.
6. Avoid equipment that is more than eight feet high.

Source: Bloomberg Businessweek

Be Safe,
Michelle D.

Did You Know? June is National Safety Month!

That's right...yesterday wasn't only the start of hurricane season, it also kicked off the official start of National Safety Month.

National Safety Month is comprised of five weeks, each given their own individual theme. Each month focuses on the following issues:

Week 1 (June 1-6) - Prescription Drug Overdose Prevention

Week 2 (June 7-13) - Teen Driving Safety

Week 3 (June 14-20) - Preventing Overexertion at Work & at Home

Week 4 (June 21-27) - Dangers of Cell Phone Use While Driving

Week 5 (June 28-20) - Summer Safety

To learn more, visit the National Safety Council's Web site by clicking here.

This is also a great time to ask yourself if your business has an emergency preparedness plan. With hurricane season stirring up, now is as good a time as any to make sure you have the proper policies in place - to protect your business, your employees and your families!

Until Next Week,

Michelle D.

Tip Tuesday: Make Memorial Day Weekend A Safe One!

As many of us are gearing up for a long weekend, let's not forget to play it safe this Memorial Day.

The American College of Emergency Physicians has released a list of the top five tips that you and your family should follow in order to stay safe and healthy over the holiday weekend.

Tip 1: Food Safety — To avoid food poisoning, the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture recommends cooking fresh poultry to 165 degrees, hamburgers to 160 degrees and beef to at least 145 degrees. Refrigerate all perishable food within 2 hours, 1 hour if the temperature outside is above 90 degrees. To guard against cross-contamination of bacteria, keep uncooked meats away from other foods.

Tip 2: Grill Safety — Emergency physicians see firsthand the dangers associated with an outdoor grill. Consumers should thoroughly clean a grill of any grease or dust. Check the tubes leading into the burner for any blockages from insects or food grease that can cause an uncontrolled fire. Replace any connectors which can lead to a gas leak and keep lighted cigarettes, matches or open flames away from a leaking grill. Do not use a grill in a garage, breezeway, carport and porch or near any surface that can catch fire. Also, always follow the manufacturer's instructions that accompany the grill.

Tip 3: Water Safety — To prevent drowning, avoid alcohol when swimming or boating. Wear a lifejacket whenever you are on a boat. Make sure young children are supervised at all times when near the beach, on a boat, or by a pool or hot tub. Don't swim alone or in bad weather. Learn to swim and teach your children to swim. We also recommend that you learn CPR in case of an emergency.

Tip 4: Sun Safety — Protect against sunburn and heat stroke. Wear sunscreen with at least an SPF of 15 or higher and apply it generously throughout the day. Wear a hat outdoors and a good pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes. Drink plenty of water, especially when in the sun or if you are sweating heavily. If you feel faint or nauseous, get into a cool place immediately.

Tip 5: Travel Safety — Do not drink and drive or travel with anyone who has been drinking. Wear your seatbelt at all times. Make sure your vehicle has been properly serviced and is in good working shape before a long road trip. Familiarize yourself with your surroundings if you are in an unfamiliar place and know where the nearest emergency room is to you at all times in case of an emergency.

Source: American College of Emergency Physicians

While Memorial Day has long been observed as a time for fun in the sun and spending time with our family & friends, let's not forget the real reason behind Memorial Day. Be sure to take a moment this weekend to remember those who have fallen fighting for our country.

Did you know? A national moment of remembrance takes place at 3 p.m. local time.

Wishing everyone a wonderful, safe holiday weekend!

Michelle D.

Tip Tuesday: This Friday is National Bike To Work Day!

Now's your chance...Your chance to jump start your summer workout routine, rework your daily commute and help the environment - all at the same time! At the risk of sounding too cliche, I guess three REALLY is a charm!

Friday, May 21 is National Bike To Work Day. I don't know about you, but I'm pretty pumped about it! I'm sure we could all come up with an excuse not to participate, so I thought I would help counter some of the most common reasons not to.

Excuse 1: I don't even own a bike!

Now is the time to get one! While the upfront costs may seem a little daunting, look around for a good deal. If you're only using a bicycle as a means to commute, a standard bike will work just fine. Plus, once the expense of purchasing the bike is over with, the maintenance costs are minimal, if any. As a motivator, remind yourself how much you pay in gas each month.

For starters, try checking out some bicycle buying advice from ConsumerReports.org

Excuse 2: It's too sweaty.

According to bikerumor.com, a common concern is the need to change in and out of work clothes. But you don’t necessarily need to pull a Clark Kent-like outfit change.

“Unless you’re riding for endurance, you can wear your everyday street clothes for normal commuting,” said Meghan Cahill, a spokeswoman for the League of American Bicyclists, an advocacy group in Washington, D.C.

The sight might jar Americans, but Cahill noted that it’s common to see people riding to work in suits in countries where bicycling is more common.

If you’re not comfortable with that idea, you could always bring a change of clothes or leave a pair of dress shoes at the office. Many offices these days also have gyms where you can shower.

Excuse 3: I live too far from work.

It is reported that half of Americans work commute is under 5 miles. For the other half, try finding a half-way point between work and home where you could park your car and bike the rest of the way to work. Remember, where there's a will, there's a way!

Still need more motivation? Watch Today's Commuter Challenge segment on NBC, "Ditch the Car for a Healthy Commute."

I hope all of our readers will consider changing their commuting habits - if not permanently, at least for the day!

Stay tuned for photos of our own agency participants as they commute to work THIS FRIDAY!

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Until Next Week,

Michelle D.

Check Out Our New Web site!!

I am so pleased to announce the launch of our new Web site, www.benefit-advisors.com, which went live last week. There are some great new tools available to you, including online quoting capabilities and a brand new "chat with an agent" feature. Now you can browse our site for the latest news and information, meet our team and more, all from the comfort of your own home.

Much thanks to Jack Moring of Visual Harmony for his professional expertise and design work!

Happy browsing!

Michelle D.

Don't Forget Mom This Weekend - Mother's Day is Sunday, May 9!

It's that time of the year again...time to celebrate the women in our lives, our Mothers! Neeed some gift ideas? Want to whip up a special, healthy meal for Mom? Women's Day Online has some great tips, recipes, crafts and more to make this Mother's Day the most memorable yet.

If you're a UnitedHealthcare member, I found out some awesome news yesterday too! UHC has teamed up with 1800Flowers.com to offer its members a 15 percent discount on flowers for Mother's Day and thoughout the year. UHC members, click here for more information on obtaining your discount.

If you're not a big fan of sending flowers, you might consider something a little more therapeutic, like a massage. If your Mom is anything like mine, she rarely takes the time to pamper herself, so this year I decided to schedule a mother/daughter massage to celebrate Mother's Day the relaxing way! The health benefits of massage are also a plus. Some studies have found massage helpful for the following:

1. Stress relief (who doesn't need a little of this every now and then?)
2. Managing anxiety and depression
3. Pain
4. Stiffness
5. Blood pressure control
6. Infant growth
7. Sports-related injuries
8. Boosting immunity
9. Cancer treatment

Source: mayoclinic.com

Rest assured, whatever you decide to do for the special women in your life, they are sure to appreciate the thought & the effort!

Until Next Week,

Michelle D.

Tips for a Safe & Healthy Life

Happy Tuesday BA blog readers! I hope you all had a fantastic Earth Day and did something good for the environment and your health. I'd love to hear your success stories, please feel free to share them anytime! In addition to keeping our environment and ourselves happy and healthy, why not help others change their behaviors too? Nothing helps create change like education and awareness.

This afternoon I came across a great poster from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Click here to view the poster. It has lots of great tips for living a safe and healthy lifestyle. This is a great tool to hang up at your workplace or to include in an employee newsletter. Every little bit helps spread awareness and contribute to behavior changes. Remember, healthy employees are more productive and that's not just my opinion, it's a fact!

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Until Next Week,

Michelle D.

Tip Tuesday: Earth Day is This Thursday!

Did you know Thursday marks the 40th year we have been celebrating Earth Day? This pivotal event is a silent reminder to not only stay healthy as individuals, but work towards creating a healthier, more sustainable environment now and into the future. With many new diseases and disorders popping up each year, many due to environmental factors, why not use Earth Day as a means to make healthier "greener" decisions? You'd be amazed that just a few minor changes can make a huge impact on our environment AND our overall health.

Some action steps you can take in 2010 to make a difference:
1. Walk
2. Drink more water
3. Take shorter showers
4. Eat salads
5. Use environmentally friendly cleaning products
6. Abstain from meat at least one day a week (in order to curb carbon emissions from the livestock industry)

There are also some great tools out there to help all of us maintain a "greener" lifestyle every day! For instance, do you know how clean the air is in your city today? Click here to check your local air quality conditions and forecasts.

You can also visit the United States Environmental Protection Agency Web site for more information and to download some Earth Day Home Kits for you and your family.

Today, I'll leave you with some great Green Tips to help reduce our environmental footprint!

1. Leaving your car at home twice a week can cut greenhouse gas emissions by 1,600 pounds per year. Save up errands and shopping trips so you need to drive fewer times. If you commute to work, ask if you can work from home at least some days, and you'll reduce air pollution and traffic congestion - and save money.

2. Protect yourself from sun overexposure! In summer, always apply sun block SPF 15 or more to protect your skin from solar UV radiation. Just five or more sunburns can really increase your risk of developing skin cancer. The sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. so at the times, seek shade or wear protective clothing such as a long-sleeved shirt.

3. Heading to the beach? Check out the beach water before you go! We Americans take almost two billion trips to the beach every year, but people who swim at the beach sometimes get sick because the water is polluted. The good news is in the state where the beach is located, you can check with the state office to find out about the beach water - before you go.

4. Make it a full load! Run your dishwasher only when it's full. Don't pre-rinse dishes - tests show pre-rinsing doesn't improve dishwasher cleaning, and you'll save as much as 20 gallons of water per load. When you buy a new dishwasher, look for one that saves water. Water-efficient models use only about only about 4 gallons per wash.

5. Just bag it! Help protect the environment when you shop. Keep reusable bags on your car seat or near your door so they are easy to grab when you go. And you can even combine shopping bags - just tell the cashier that you don't need a bag, then put all your purchases together in one bag… just be sure to hang on to your receipts! Don't have your own eco-bags? Give Benefit Advisors a call at 352-479-0944 and we'll give you one of our BA green bags!

Are you planning to go green this week? If so, I'd love to hear your story!

Until Next Week,
Michelle D.

Source: http://www.epa.gov/

Benefit Advisors is Proud to Announce the Hiring of Two Additional Employee Benefits Specialists

Benefit Advisors, a top ranked Florida employee benefits firm headquartered in Ocala, Fla., has expanded once again to include two new Employee Benefits positions.

Mr. Kyle Yancey (pictured left) and Mrs. Alicia Hooper (pictured right) are the newest members of the Benefit Advisors team, working out of the corporate office in Ocala.

Yancey is an Ocala native and recent University of Florida graduate, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations. He holds a 2-15 Life, Health and Variable Annuities license in the State of Florida.

Hooper has been working in the insurance industry since 2001, beginning her career with BlueCross BlueShield of Florida in claims and customer service. Eventually moving into sales, Hooper obtained her 2-15 license in 2006.

Yancey and Hooper’s job duties will include generating, managing and overseeing new group health insurance business accounts. Yancey can be contacted at 352-479-0944, ext 1242 or via e-mail at kyancey@benefit-advisors.com. Hooper can be reached at 352-479-0944, ext 1210 or via e-mail at ahooper@benefit-advisors.com.

Did You Know? Living a Healthy Lifestyle Can Prevent Many Cancers

Excerpt taken from UnitedHealthcare's Care24 Health Bulletin

Cancer is a scary word. Just the mere mention of it can stop people in their tracks. What many people don’t realize is that healthful lifestyle choices can reduce the occurrence of some cancers and save many lives.

In addition to quitting smoking (lung cancer kills more people than breast, colon and prostrate cancers combined), eating a healthful diet, maintaining a healthful weight and exercising can greatly reduce your risk of many types cancer. Be sure to check with your doctor before significantly increasing your level of activity.

Click here for a UHC handout with some very helpful Cancer Resources.

For some great resources on developing - or better yet maintaining - a healthy lifestyle, I suggest visiting The American Heart Association Web site. Click here to be directed to its Web site. They offer nutrition advice, exercise & fitness information, a Body Mass Index (BMI) Calculator and more! It's a one-stop shop to your free lifestyle information!

Have a great week everyone!

Michelle D.

Photo Credit: Dreamstime.com

Tip Tuesday: Fend Off Allergies!

As April lingers before us and spring is in full bloom, it's no wonder many of us are suffering from allergies. This morning I checked my e-mail and found a great article in my inbox from RealAge, an Allergy Alert bulletin with some very helpful tips.

This article on Avoiding Allergens I found to be most helpful.

The Highlights:
1. Be strategic about outdoor activities.
2. Shower off -- pets, too.
3. Protect indoor air.
4. Wash and dry

On another note, we've all heard that eating well is synonymous with maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle, but what about diet having an effect on allergies?

According to RealAge, "One dietary approach in particular has mounting research behind it. Studies suggest that a Mediterranean-style diet may have benefits for people with allergies. In fact, cultures that subsist on Mediterranean diets have a much lower incidence of allergy and asthma than here in the United States." Click here to read how the delicious and nutritious elements of this approach to eating may help.

I don't know about you but I have definitely been bit by the allergy bug this year. My mom sent me a link this week to pollen.com - where you can actually check the pollen forecast in your area! Might be a good resource to use when planning your outdoor activities - strategically that is. Just like we watch the weather channel every morning, maybe we should get into the habit of checking our allergy forecast too - at least for you and I suffering from the spring sniffles!

Until next week,
Michelle D.

The 411 on the Health Care Bill

As many of you are probably aware, the Health Reform Bill passed Sunday night by a narrow margin in the House of Representatives. As the health care debate continues to heat up, many of us are sitting back wondering exactly what changes - and benefits - the American people will see as a result of this bill.

I came across an interesting article by Kaiser Health News entitled "The Immediate Effects of The Health Reform Bill," by Julie Appleby and Kate Steadman. In my opinion, this article does a great job of explaining both the short term and long term effects we can expect from the health reform bill.

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Changes that would occur this year include:

1. Dependent children could remain on their parents' health insurance plans until age 26.
2. Some senior citizens would get more help paying for drugs in Medicare.
3. People with health problems that left them uninsurable could qualify for coverage through a federal program.

Some of the items that go into effect in the first year include:

• New help for some uninsured: People with a medical condition that has left them uninsurable may be able to enroll in a new federally subsidized insurance program that is to be established within 90 days. The legislation appropriates $5 billion for this, although that may not be enough to cover all who apply; it's not clear how much consumers would pay as their share of the cost. About 200,000 people are covered in similar state programs currently, at an estimated cost of $1 billion a year, says Karen Pollitz, a research professor at Georgetown University.


• Discounts and free care in Medicare: The approximately 4 million Medicare beneficiaries who hit the so-called “doughnut hole” in the program’s drug plan will get a $250 rebate this year. Next year, their cost of drugs in the coverage gap will go down by 50 percent. Preventive care, such as some types of cancer screening, will be free of co-payments or deductibles starting this year.


• Coverage of kids: Parents will be allowed to keep their children on their health insurance plan until age 26, unless the child is eligible for coverage through a job. Insurance plans cannot exclude pre-existing medical conditions from coverage for children under age 19, although insurers could still reject those children outright for coverage in the individual market until 2014.


• Tax credits for businesses: Businesses with fewer than 25 employees and average wages of less than $50,000 could qualify for a tax credit of up to 35 percent of the cost of their premiums.


• Changes to insurance: All existing insurance plans will be barred from imposing lifetime caps on coverage. Restrictions will also be placed on annual limits on coverage. Insurers can no longer cancel insurance retroactively for things other than outright fraud.


• Government oversight: Insurers must report how much they spend on medical care versus administrative costs, a step that later will be followed by tighter government review of premium increases.

Source: Kaiser Health News. To read in its entirety, click here.
Photo Credit: Kaiser Health News

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Until Next Week,

Michelle D.

Tip Tuesday: Join the Lecture!

Calling all Marion County residents!! On Wednesday, April 14, 2010 the Florida Institute for Human & Machine Cognition will be hosting one of its FREE Lecture Series, THE TALK - American Street Food: A Thinking Eater's Survey by John T. Edge. For more information on the lecture, please click on the .pdf above to enlarge the invitation. Please note, Seating is limited, so if you are planning on attending, send an e-mail to ocalaevents@ihmc.us.

Want to see more? Check out past IHMC lectures at http://www.youtube.com/theIHMC.

Hope to see you there!

Michelle D.

Tip of the Week: Change the Direction of Someone's Life!

My sincere apologies for not posting the Benefit Advisors Tip Tuesday yesterday. I am currently participating in the Chamber's Leadership Ocala program as a member of Class XXIII, the "best class ever," and was out of the office all day for one of our class sessions.

Yesterday's session focused on the Justice system in Marion County. Our class started the day off at the Marion County Courthouse, where we sat in on some trials, including first appearances and a DUI criminal case. We then toured the county jail, the Marion County Sheriff's Office and finally the Ocala Police Department.

What an interesting day it proved to be! I walked away with an overwhelming sense of pride in my local law enforcement departments and an appreciation for the selfless work of our justice system employees.

It also got me thinking just how lucky I am. Lucky to have a job, lucky to have had the opportunity to receive a college degree, and most importantly, lucky to have the love and support of my wonderful family & friends. It is due to the lack of many of these factors that people make their way through the justice system and ultimately land themselves in jail - or even worse - prison. Yesterday's experience was definitely an eye-opening one. It made me realize that I shouldn't take the blessings in my life for granted. However, it also made me realize the importance of supporting our local agencies that help those less fortunate in our communities.

I am very pleased to work for an organization that values and supports various non-profits in our area. It is because of these agencies that we can help give back to those that don't have a strong family unit or help the uneducated complete their schooling and find solid paying jobs. It is this support that will help eliminate the number of individuals that turn to crime.

So my tip for you today is, "give back!" No matter how big or small, just take some time to give back to your community. It will help in more ways than one. If you can help change the direction of one person's life, then that is the best gift of all.

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Now, I would just like to take a minute to brag about the generous contributions of my organization, Benefit Advisors.

We currently volunteer and donate to the following:

1. Marion County Chamber of Commerce

2. Economic Development Council

3. United Way of Marion County

4. United Way of Marion County Day of Caring

5. Heart of Florida Health Center

6. Heart of Florida's Lose To Win Challenge

7. Marion County Literacy Council

8. Kiwanis Club of Ocala

9. Boy Scouts of America

10. Pace Center for Girls

11. Wounded Warriors Ride 2 Recovery

12. Devereux Kids

13. Salvation Army

14. UnitedHealthcare Children's Foundation, Inc.

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Until Next Week,

Michelle D.

Depression: Know The Facts from UHC

UnitedHealthcare's March Care24 Health Bulltein focused on depression. Here's some information you might want to know about and some important resources available exclusively to UHC members...

Depression is no laughing matter.

Depression affects 20 million people in the U.S. It can feel differently for different people. Take note of any changes, such as:

• Mood swings
• Loss of interest in once enjoyable activities
• Changes in appetite or sleeping patterns
• Lack of energy or motivation
• Trouble remembering or making decisions
• Feeling sad, anxious or empty
• Frequent crying
• Thoughts of death or suicide

If you see signs of depression in yourself or a loved one, it’s important to get help. For thoughts of suicide, emergency evaluation may be needed. Call Care24 at 1-888-887-4114 for resources available to you 24/7. Services are part of your benefit plan and available at no additional cost to you. TDD/TTY callers, please call 711 and ask for the number above.

For useful articles, online tools and more – visit http://www.myuhc.com/.

Click here for a fact sheet on depression.