As a vineyard owner, safeguarding your crops against unforeseen events is crucial. The Federal Crop Insurance deadline is fast approaching on January 31, with coverage commencing on February 1. This insurance is essential for protecting your vineyard from potential losses due to natural disasters, pests, or diseases.

What’s new in Crop Insurance for 2025:

• Enhanced Coverage Option (ECO): County-based coverage option allowing you to insure up to 95% of your crop value using county-based losses.
• Fire Insurance Protection – Smoke Index (FIP-SI) – County-based smoke exposure coverage option allowing you to add additional smoke coverage to your underlying policy using county-based NOAA air quality data to determine a loss.

Want to learn more about the Federal Crop Insurance Program? Check out the recorded webinar hosted Agribusiness Risk Expert, Kristine Fox in partnership with CAWG, that covers the ins and outs of crop insurance, featured on Wine Business. 

Comprehensive Agribusiness Insurance Solutions

Relation Insurance Services has been a trusted partner in the agribusiness sector for over 75 years, offering tailored insurance solutions to meet the unique needs of agricultural businesses. Their expertise spans various areas, including:

• Crop Insurance: Protects your crops from losses due to natural disasters.
• Workers’ Compensation: Ensures your employees are covered in case of work-related injuries.
• General Liability Packages: Offers protection against potential legal claims.
• Life and Health Benefits: Provides comprehensive benefits for you and your employees.
• Loss Control Services: Helps in identifying and mitigating potential risks.
• Farm Labor Contractor (FLC) Licensing Assistance: Assists in navigating the complexities of FLC licensing.
• Claims Management Assistance: Supports you through the claims process to ensure timely resolutions.
• Compliance Training: Keeps your business up-to-date with the latest regulatory requirements.

By partnering with Relation Insurance Services, you can ensure your vineyard is well-protected, allowing you to focus on producing quality wine.

Success Stories in Agribusiness Insurance

Relation has a proven track record of assisting Agribusiness clients in managing risks effectively. For instance, our team a helped a California-based grower-shipper launch a new company by designing a health insurance program that closely mirrored his existing coverage. We also facilitated a client’s entry into a group captive insurance company for workers’ compensation, resulting in significant cost savings.

Act Now to Secure Your Vineyard’s Future

With the January 31 deadline looming, it’s imperative to review your crop insurance options promptly. Partnering with experienced providers like Relation Insurance Services can offer you peace of mind, knowing that your vineyard is protected against potential risks. Don’t miss this opportunity to safeguard your investment and ensure the longevity of your vineyard.

For more information on Agribusiness Insurance Solutions, connect with one of our US Locations today.

Winter storms and cold snaps bring a unique set of challenges for homeowners and business owners alike. By preparing ahead of time, you can safeguard your property, loved ones, and customers from the harsh realities of severe weather. Below we walk through some essential steps to help you stay protected when the temperatures plummet.

Prevent Freezing Pipes and Water Damage

Frozen pipes can lead to costly damage, but a little preparation goes a long way:

• Insulate pipes: Pay special attention to pipes in attics, basements, and along exterior walls. Seal cracks and gaps with insulation or caulking.
• Monitor heating fuel levels: Before the cold sets in, check your fuel levels and schedule a refill if necessary.
• Locate your water shut-off: In the event of a burst pipe, shutting off the water promptly can prevent extensive damage. Know where your shut-off valve is located.
• Service sprinkler systems: Ensure your sprinkler system is serviced and consult with a professional about freeze prevention.
• Encourage warm airflow: Open indoor cabinets to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Allow faucets to drip: Running water is less likely to freeze, so let faucets trickle during extreme cold.
• Set your thermostat: Maintain a minimum indoor temperature of 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Thaw pipes safely: If pipes freeze, use a hair dryer, space heater, or another safe method—never an open flame—to thaw them.
• Business precautions: Regularly monitor your building’s heating systems to catch problems early.

Manage Snow Loads and Ice Dams

Heavy snow and ice can damage roofs and lead to water backups. Take these steps to minimize risk:

• Clear snow responsibly: Use a roof rake to remove snow from the bottom four feet of your roof and around chimneys and valleys.
• Identify hazards: Before removing snow, locate skylights, vents, and other obstacles to avoid accidents.
• Practice ladder safety: Position your ladder on stable, ice-free ground and ensure it’s securely set.
• Use a safety harness: For steep roofs, consider hiring a professional. If you’re tackling the task yourself, wear a safety harness to reduce fall risks.

General Severe Cold Weather Preparation

Being ready for extreme weather ensures the safety of your household or business. Here’s how:

• Stock emergency essentials: Keep blankets, batteries, portable phone chargers, flashlights, drinking water, and non-perishable food on hand.
• Check detectors: Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to confirm they’re functioning properly.
• Plan for power outages: Seal drafts and keep exterior doors and windows closed to retain heat.
• Limit travel: If travel is unavoidable, carry a winter emergency kit with warm clothing and supplies.
• Protect children and pets: Keep everyone inside as much as possible. Pets should only go out briefly.
• Avoid unsafe heating methods: Never use gas ovens, grills, or other open-flame appliances indoors for heat, as they produce toxic fumes.

Why Preparation Matters

Taking proactive steps before winter’s worst hits isn’t just about avoiding inconvenience; it’s about protecting your home, your business, and the people who rely on you. Whether it’s insulating pipes, clearing snow, or stocking emergency supplies, every action adds a layer of security.

At Relation Insurance, we understand that life doesn’t pause for a snowstorm. That’s why we’re here to help you plan ahead, so you can focus on what matters most—your family, your business, and your peace of mind.

Find an Insurance location near you and talk to one of our experts. Your partner in protection. For Life’s Unpredictable moments. 

Your Home Office: A Space Worth Protecting

These days, your home office isn’t just where you work—it’s where creativity happens, goals are crushed, and dreams come to life. That’s why taking care of it matters! As we mark Home Office Safety and Security Week, let’s chat about simple but important ways to keep your workspace safe from fire, theft, and cybersecurity risks while also making sure your valuable equipment is properly covered.

Why Your Home Office Deserves Extra TLC

Working from home has its perks—hello, comfy socks and coffee refills—but it also means your home office faces unique risks. Think about it: your space likely holds pricey tech, sensitive info, and important papers. A little planning now can help protect all that from unexpected mishaps like fires or online threats.

Easy Ways to Keep Your Home Office Safe

🛡️ Prevent Fire Hazards

• Check Your Cords: Make sure wires and equipment aren’t frayed or overloaded.
• Use Surge Protectors: These little lifesavers shield your gadgets from power spikes.
• Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby: Know where it is and how to use it (just in case).
• Don’t Overheat Devices: Avoid leaving laptops or chargers running unattended for too long.

🔒 Guard Against Theft

• Secure the Space: Add locks to nearby windows and doors for extra peace of mind.
• Use a Safe for Valuables: Perfect for stashing important docs or gadgets when you’re away.
• Consider a Security System: Cameras or alarms can help protect your space.

💻 Step Up Your Cybersecurity Game

• Create Strong Passwords: Think unique and complex for all your devices and accounts.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication: It’s an extra layer of defense for sensitive info.
• Keep Software Updated: Regular updates for systems and antivirus programs go a long way.
• Secure Your Wi-Fi: Use a strong password or even a VPN for added safety.

Protect What You’ve Built

No matter how prepared we are, surprises happen. That’s why it’s a smart move to make sure your home insurance covers your office equipment. Policies can help safeguard:

• Computers, printers, and electronics
• Furniture and office supplies
• Data recovery services if you ever face a breach

Let’s Make Your Space Safer This Week

Home Office Safety and Security Week is the perfect time to give your workspace a little extra love. With these tips and the right protection in place, you can stay focused on what matters most—doing amazing work in a space that feels safe, secure, and totally you.

Visit our Relation Locations page to find a local risk advisor to help you review your policy. Or Contact Us to have a risk advisor contact you to help identify any gaps in coverage. After all, a well-protected office isn’t just practical—it’s peace of mind. 💻✨

“It has always been our mission to be more than insurance broker, but rather a partner, teammate and friend in the business. We are honored to be recognized for this level of service that goes beyond creating long term solutions that address our client’s unique challenges.” – Keri Lopez

Matthew LoPorto will also share his insights on the compliance essentials for a successful Wellness Program. As well as crucial regulatory updates that will impact your health plans as we prepare for the open enrollment for the 2025 Plan Year.

Relation will be hosting the webinar WELLNESS IN THE WORKPLACE! HOW TO CREATE AN EFFECTIVE AND COMPLIANT WELLNESS PROGRAM on:

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2024
2:00 – 3:00 PM EST 

To make sure you’re on top of your employee benefits game and in sync with compliance, don’t miss out – save your seat today!

Have questions?  Please feel free to submit them in advance to [email protected] or questions may be asked during the webinar.

After you register, you will receive a confidential email containing information about joining the meeting.

P.S. Cannot attend? Register to receive a copy of the webinar recording.

About The Speakers

Article originally posted in Big I Arkansas publication for independent insurance agents of Arkansas.

At a Big I convention back in 2004, Brandi McKinney was still a Yankee with a northern accent. Smitten by the Southern hospitality and family atmosphere she encountered, she said, “I’m going to be a big part of this.”

Since then, her accent has faded, but not her enthusiasm for her industry and community.

McKinney, 46, is AVP for McGhee Insurance NWA (Relation Insurances Services) in Rogers, and the new Big I Arkansas President.

“I will never not have the Big I family,” she said.

Finding a path

Originally from Chicago, McKinney went to college in Indiana and earned her degree in psychology. She intended to get a master’s degree and teach before she “fell into insurance” after a carrier saw her resume on Monster.com. and offered her the opportunity to travel and have a company car and expense account. In her early 20s and single, it was enough to persuade McKinney to become a territory manager for a company under Baldwin & Lyons, Inc.

When the company said they wanted to give her Arkansas as a territory, McKinney told them she wasn’t exactly sure where the state was. But as she traveled throughout Arkansas, Mississippi, and Alabama, she quickly fell in love with the area.

“The South is amazing,” she said. “The people are nice. Our state is beautiful. The pace is calm. People talk to you and hold the door open.”

McKinney is particularly excited to have found a home in the northwest corner of the state.

“In Northwest Arkansas, we’re unique in a sense. We’ve got some of the top companies in the United States. Walmart and Tyson bring in so many people from out of town,” she said. “It’s becoming a real melting pot, but we are not losing that Southern flavor.”

“The opportunity for young people in Northwest Arkansas is huge. It’s a great place to start a business and raise a family,” said McKinney, whose family now includes her husband, Or. Brandon Munson, who is a chiropractor, and their three sons, Tobin, 16, Eli, 13, and Jax, 11. Family life revolves around kid sports, including swimming, basketball, baseball, football, and travel, but they make a point to get to Chicago each year for major league baseball. When they’re home, the family has season tickets for the Arkansas Naturals.

Finding a mentor

In 2004, after becoming friends with longtime independent insurance agent Bill McGhee of Little Rock, McKinney said to him, “I can open an agency and move to Arkansas.”

“We kept talking and finally decided to do it,” she said. McKinney went home and told her friends she was moving to Arkansas, which she did with the help of two agent friends, one of whom bribed a group of construction workers with a case of beer to move her belongings into her third-floor apartment while the complex was still being built. McKinney was inspired by how McGhee ran his agency.

“He treated his team like family more than any office I had ever been in,” she said. “He took care of his people. That made me trust him and want to be part of it, and he took a huge risk on me.”

Building a business

In the summer of 2006, they opened the agency from scratch.

“We didn’t buy a book. I had to network my butt off,” said McKinney, who quickly joined the Chambers of Commerce in Bentonville, Rogers, and Springdale. She attended Business After Hours events, coffees and lunches, and got involved with a network group for women. “Those were a huge resource for me. I got to be out and about, and I met so many good friends.”
In 2013, McKinney bought the agency from McGhee, who retired.

“I just grew the agency and loved it,” she said of the business, which has been Relation Insurance since 2013. “And I still love it.”

“We have six people on our team, so we’re a small agency,” she said. “But one of the things that enticed me about how Bill ran his business is there is not a single thing they couldn’t ask me to do. Whether it’s to pick up snacks, take out the trash, or help with customers’ problems, they wouldn’t hesitate to ask.”

That kind offlexibility and willingness to serve at every level is one of the keys to success in the independent agency world.

“As independent agency owners, we kind of have to be everything to everybody, which I love,” she said. “That tests my knowledge and makes me understand my value to people.”

“People come to you for everything. At first, it was mostly personal lines, like home and auto. That’s
how I started and grew the business,” she said. “It has morphed throughout the years as I’ve worked with small businesses and nonprofits, which challenged me to learn and grow.”

Giving back

Since arriving in Northwest Arkansas, McKinney has given back to the community through the Kendrick Fincher nonprofit organization and serving on the advisory board for Signature Bank. During (OVID, she volunteered as a substitute teacher at her children’s school.

“Northwest Arkansas has so many nonprofits, so there are tons of opportunities to volunteer and help,” said McKinney, who also speaks and teaches at Saving Grace NWA, an organization that supports young women who are aging out of the foster care system. “It’s been a great experience.”

Community service is something McKinney believes independent insurance agents are well-suited for.

“We’re very service oriented. That’s just part of our DNA,” she said. “When someone calls, we just want to help people. We’re also flexible, which opens up more opportunity for us to do those things.”

McKinney has also supported independent agents in their careers, as McGhee did for her. She helped David Teigen, a California native with a background in employee benefits, open an office in Eureka Springs.

“He was amazing. He embraced the things that Bill instilled in me and put his own take on it,” said McKinney, who also helped two AAA partners in Fayetteville, who approached her for support.

Nurturing relationships

Helping independent agents be successful in Arkansas is part of what drives McKinney.

“I believe in our industry, and I want people to open agencies and be part of the independent agency family,” she said.

Independent agents have a different ethos than the corporate insurance business model, especially in Arkansas.

“It’s the same thing in all independent agencies,” she said. “They’re like a family and so welcoming.”

After meeting colleagues from other areas at national programs, McKinney believes the sense of community among independent agents is particularly strong in Arkansas.

“They are baffled at the relationships that we have here,” she said. “This is how Arkansas is. Independent agents,regardless of competition, are still friends and family.”

While technology has changed tremendously in the insurance industry, McKinney is happy to reassure younger independent agents that they will not be replaced with Al (artificial intelligence).

“That’s not going to happen here in the South,” she said. “We’re big on people. We still want an actual person to talk to and visit with.”

“Our industry is 100 percent relationships,” she said. “If you can go out and meet and talk to people, you can be successful.”

“Everybody needs insurance, whether it’s for their car or a new business,” she said. “You start small, put yourself out there helping people. Then they trust you, and they tell other people.”

While McKinney didn’t study insurance in college, her degree in psychology has proven useful.

“We are basically therapists, and we listen better than most,” she said. “We become a trusted advisor. The last thing we talk about is policy, which is why we’re successful.”

“I tell people it’s not their job to know insurance. That’s our job. We’re here to guide and help,” she said. “Their responsibility to tell us what’s important to them, so we can advise them.”

McKinney understands that when people buy insurance, they’re not 100 percent sure why. They just know they have to have it.

“I like to tease that people don’t realize who we are and what we do until something catastrophic happens,” she said, recalling conversations with clients after a recent tornado in Rogers. “Our job is to get to know them, their family, and their
property. These are things that matter in the event of a catastrophe. As an advisor, I’m supposed to listen and know what they need in case something happens. At the end of the day, we’re here to help make them whole.”

Curious about career opportunities at Relation Insurance? Why independent agents are joining our mission to become the Most Trusted Insurance Broker in the United States. Check out our open positions here and find out what industry experts know about #LifeAtRelation that you should know.

What is an Insurance Journal MVP

Meet our 2024 Insurance Journal MVP’s

With her extensive experience advising employers and consultants on compliance, Marilyn will be guiding us through practical, real-world examples of benefits administration during leaves of absence.

With the increasing complexity of overlapping leave laws like FMLA and USERRA, it’s more important than ever for HR and benefit professionals to understand how they impact employee benefit plans. Marilyn will highlight the tips, traps, best practices, and action items you need to know about to stay compliant. She’ll cover everything from which benefits employers must offer, for how long, and who has to pay for them.

Matt will also be providing crucial guidance on upcoming Federal filings to ensure that you’re aware of your responsibilities.

Secure your spot today and join Marilyn and Matt for an exclusive webinar. You’ll gain a better understanding of how to administer health benefits during an employee’s leave.

Relation will be hosting the webinar THE INTERSECTION OF LEAVE LAWS AND EMPLOYEE BENEFITS on:

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8 2024
2:00 – 3:00 PM EST 

To make sure you’re on top of your employee benefits game and in sync with compliance, don’t miss out – save your seat today!

Have questions?  Please feel free to submit them in advance to [email protected] or questions may be asked during the webinar.

After you register, you will receive a confidential email containing information about joining the meeting.

P.S. Cannot attend? Register to receive a copy of the webinar recording.

About The Speakers