Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Welcome to the Shield Insurance Agency Blog. 

Here you will find a ton of articles on each of these topics: Auto Insurance, Boat/Watercraft Insurance, Business Insurance, Flood Insurance, Health Insurance, Home Insurance, Insurance, Life Insurance, Michigan Auto Insurance Reform, Recreational Insurance, Renters Insurance, RV Insurance, Things To Do At Home, Umbrella Insurance, and even a list of the Shield Agency Weekly Gift Card Winners,

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Shark Attack App Uses AI to Forecast and Detect Risk for Swimmers at 89% Accuracy

Shark Attack App Uses AI to Forecast and Detect Risk for Swimmers at 89% Accuracy

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

A sophisticated app generates shark attack “forecasts” using artificial intelligence.

GoodNewsNetwork.org | By Andy Corbley | May 19, 2023 | Shark Attack | Boat Insurance

The developers are taking advantage of a deep learning algorithm to compartmentalize over a hundred years of shark attack data to create a sort-of weather forecast for beaches around the US with an 89% accuracy.

Called SafeWaters.AI, they hope not only to save lives—their primary objective—but to help reduce the persecution of sharks in response to attacks on humans.

Shark Attack Risks

The risk of shark attack is about 1 in every 3.7 million swimmers, and 60% (28) of all recorded shark attacks in the US have occurred in Florida.

As the developers point out, most consumers of news regarding AI see it employed for aspects that seem frightening or purely futuristic, such as deep fake video creation or self-driving cars.

But the ability of a targeted AI to parse out trends and forces in mountains of data lends it to working with all manner of unique applications. In this case, over a hundred years of shark attack reports are analyzed, with data points being whether it was a swimmer or surfer, where the victim was swimming, what time of day it was, what the marine weather conditions were like, and even whether they were wearing shiny jewelry.

Shark Attack App Uses AI to Forecast and Detect Risk for Swimmers at 89% Accuracy

credit SafeWaters AI

In an era where artificial intelligence is progressively transforming our daily lives, a groundbreaking app, SafeWatersAI, has arrived. This innovative application, which has recently launched its crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter, revolutionizes our interaction with marine environments. SafeWaters forecasts the risk of shark attacks with an impressive 89% accuracy rate. You can say it’s like a weather app, for sharkiness.

All of this contributes to the total percentage risk displayed on the app.

Currently, the project is being crowdfunded, with 5% of all future sales to be donated to ocean cleanup efforts.

Click here to read the full article and see some great photos…

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The benefits of dental insurance

Dental Insurance: Protecting Your Smile and Your Wallet

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Dental Insurance | Start a Quote Today!

Dental care is an essential part of maintaining good overall health. Regular check-ups, cleanings, and treatments can prevent serious dental problems and keep your teeth and gums healthy. However, dental care can be expensive, especially if you have a family or need extensive treatments like dentures. That’s where dental insurance comes in. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of dental insurance, how it works, and why you should consider getting it for yourself and your family.

What is Dental Insurance?

Dental insurance is a type of health insurance that covers the cost of dental care. It typically includes preventive care like check-ups and cleanings, as well as treatments like fillings, root canals, and extractions. Some plans also cover orthodontic treatments like braces and Invisalign, and cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening. Dental insurance works by paying a portion of the cost of dental care, usually a percentage of the total bill. The amount of coverage and the cost of the plan depend on the insurance company and the specific plan you choose.

Why You Need Dental Insurance

Dental care can be expensive, especially if you need extensive treatments like root canals or dentures. Without insurance, you may have to pay out of pocket for these treatments, which can be a significant financial burden. Dental insurance can help you save money on dental care by covering a portion of the cost. It can also help you budget for dental expenses by providing predictable costs and reducing the risk of unexpected bills.

Dental insurance is especially important if you have a family. Children need regular dental check-ups and cleanings to prevent cavities and other dental problems. They may also need orthodontic treatments like braces, which can be expensive without insurance. Dental insurance can help you provide your family with the dental care they need without breaking the bank.

How Dental Insurance Works

Dental insurance works differently than traditional health insurance. Instead of paying for medical expenses after they occur, dental insurance typically pays for preventive care upfront and covers a portion of the cost of treatments. Most dental insurance plans have a deductible, which is the amount you have to pay out of pocket before the insurance kicks in. Once you meet your deductible, the insurance will pay a percentage of the cost of dental care, usually between 50% and 80%. You will be responsible for the remaining balance.

Some dental insurance plans have annual maximums, which is the maximum amount the insurance will pay for dental care in a year. If you exceed the annual maximum, you will be responsible for the remaining balance. Other plans have waiting periods, which is the amount of time you have to wait before the insurance will cover certain treatments. For example, a plan may have a six-month waiting period for orthodontic treatments.

Choosing the Right Plan

Choosing the right dental insurance plan can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with the terminology and options. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can help you find the right plan for your needs and budget. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a dental insurance plan:

– Coverage: Make sure the plan covers the dental care you need, including preventive care, treatments, and orthodontics if necessary.

– Cost: Consider the monthly premium, deductible, and copays to determine the total cost of the plan.

– Network: Check if your dentist is in the plan’s network to avoid out-of-network fees.

– Annual maximum: Make sure the plan’s annual maximum is sufficient for your needs.

– Waiting periods: Consider the waiting periods for certain treatments if you need them in the near future.

Protect Your Smile and Your Wallet with Dental Insurance

Dental care is essential for maintaining good overall health, but it can be expensive without insurance. Dental insurance can help you save money on dental care and provide your family with the dental care they need. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can help you find the right dental insurance plan for your needs and budget. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today and protect your smile and your wallet.

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These Breeds Were Named ‘America’s Most Spoiled Dogs’ in a New Poll

These Breeds Were Named ‘America’s Most Spoiled Dogs’ in a New Poll

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Good News Network | May 14, 2023 | Spoiled Dogs | Pet Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

Do you own an Australian Shepard, Border Collie, or Corgi? According to a new poll, you might just own America’s most spoiled dog.

A full sixty percent of the 2,000 dog owners surveyed swear that they own the “world’s most spoiled dog”. One common link: two-thirds of them are talking about a herding dog, like the three named above.

2nd Most Spoiled Dogs

Non-sporting dogs like Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and Shiba Inus came in second place for the nation’s most luxuriated breeds, earning 64% of the vote. In third place, 59% are terrier breeds like Russell terriers, Scottish Terriers, and Staffordshire Terriers.

Similarly, 79% of herding dog owners claimed their dogs live like royalty at home. An overwhelming majority (96%) said they spoil their pets in a wide variety of ways and 37% treat their dogs so well, they’d take the chance to switch bodies with their pups for a day if they could.

When asked what they would do for that day, respondents said they’d play all day long (47%), sleep in until noon (42%), and sleep where they usually wouldn’t be allowed to (37%).

People’s penchant for giving their dogs a life of luxury can be explained by four in five who treat and talk to their dogs as if they were humans. Many speak to them as if they were children (32%), and others speak as if they were babies or adults (18% for each). Many dogs get treated to meals being prepared by hand in the kitchen.

Commissioned by Solid Gold and conducted by OnePoll, the random double-opt-in survey found two-thirds of terrier owners love giving their dogs extra treats throughout the day, while 29% of toy breed owners love to serve their pups the finest bottled or filtered water in their bowl.

A third of women (32%) admit they likely treat their dogs more luxuriously than themselves, and another third treat them better than their kids and significant others (16%).

Read more about Spoiled dogs…

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Boat Insurance: Protecting Your Watercraft and Your Family

Boat Insurance: Protecting Your Watercraft and Your Family

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Boat Insurance | Click here to start a quote today!

Boating is a popular pastime for many families and friends, whether it’s cruising on a lake or sailing on the ocean. However, owning a boat comes with its own set of risks and responsibilities. That’s where boat insurance comes in. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the importance of boat insurance, the different types of coverage available, and how to get a boat insurance quote.

What is Boat Insurance?

Boat insurance, also known as marine insurance, is a type of insurance policy that provides coverage for your watercraft and its passengers. It protects you financially in case of accidents, theft, or damage to your boat. Boat insurance can also cover liability, medical expenses, and other related costs.

Why Do You Need Boat Insurance?

Boat insurance is not only important for protecting your investment, but also for protecting your family and friends who may be on board. Accidents can happen on the water just as easily as they can on land, and the consequences can be just as severe. Without boat insurance, you could be held liable for damages or injuries caused by your boat.

In addition, many marinas and waterways require proof of insurance before allowing you to dock or launch your boat. Without insurance, you may not be able to use your boat in certain areas.

What Does Boat Insurance Cover?

Boat insurance policies can vary depending on the type of coverage you choose. Here are some of the most common types of coverage:

1. Liability Coverage: This type of coverage protects you if you are found to be at fault for an accident on the water. It can cover damages to other boats, property, or injuries to other people.

2. Collision Coverage: This type of coverage pays for damages to your boat if it collides with another boat or object.

3. Comprehensive Coverage: This type of coverage covers damages to your boat that are not caused by a collision, such as theft, fire, or vandalism.

4. Medical Payments Coverage: This type of coverage pays for medical expenses for you and your passengers if you are injured in an accident on the water.

5. Uninsured/Underinsured Boater Coverage: This type of coverage protects you if you are in an accident with another boater who does not have insurance or does not have enough insurance to cover the damages.

6. Yacht Insurance: Yacht insurance is a type of boat insurance that is specifically designed for larger, more expensive boats. It provides higher limits of coverage and additional features such as crew coverage and emergency towing.

How Much Does Boat Insurance Cost?

The cost of boat insurance can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of boat, its value, and the coverage you choose. Generally, the larger and more expensive the boat, the more expensive the insurance will be. However, there are ways to lower your boat insurance cost, such as taking a boating safety course, installing safety equipment on your boat, and choosing a higher deductible.

How to Get a Quote

If you’re in the market for boat insurance, the first step is to contact an insurance agency that specializes in boat insurance. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 companies and can help you find the best coverage for your needs. To get a boat insurance quote, simply call Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 or visit their website to fill out a quote request form.

In conclusion, boat insurance is an important investment for any boat owner. It not only protects your boat but also your family and friends who may be on board. With the right coverage, you can enjoy your time on the water with peace of mind. Contact Shield Insurance Agency today to get a boat insurance quote and start protecting your watercraft and your loved ones.

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Homeowners Insurance: Protecting Your Home and Family

Homeowners Insurance: Protecting Your Home and Family

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Homeowners Insurance | Start a quote today!

As a homeowner, you know that your home is one of your most valuable assets. It’s where you
and your family live, where you create memories, and where you feel safe and secure. But what
happens if something unexpected happens, like a fire, theft, or natural disaster? That’s where
home insurance comes in.

Home insurance, also known as hazard insurance, is a type of insurance that protects your
home and personal property from damage or loss. It can also provide liability coverage if
someone is injured on your property. But with so many options out there, how do you choose
the right home insurance policy for you and your family?

Affordable Homeowners Insurance

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a home insurance policy is
affordability. You want to make sure that you’re getting the coverage you need at a price you can
afford. That’s why it’s important to shop around and compare quotes from different insurance
companies.

At Shield Insurance Agency, we understand that affordability is a top priority for homeowners.
That’s why we offer a variety of home insurance options to fit your budget. We also offer bundle
home and auto insurance policies, which can save you even more money.

Free Homeowners Insurance Quote

Before you can choose the right home insurance policy, you need to know how much coverage
you need and how much it will cost. That’s why we offer free home insurance quotes. Our
experienced agents will work with you to determine your coverage needs and provide you with a
quote that fits your budget.

Protection for Your Home and Family

Home insurance isn’t just about protecting your home and personal property. It’s also about
protecting your family. If something happens to your home, you want to make sure that you and
your family are taken care of. That’s why it’s important to choose a home insurance policy that
provides adequate coverage for your needs.

At Shield Insurance Agency, we understand the importance of protecting your home and family.
That’s why we offer a variety of home insurance options, including liability coverage, to ensure
that you and your family are protected in the event of an accident or injury on your property.

Homeowners Insurance Deductible

When choosing a home insurance policy, it’s important to consider the deductible. The
deductible is the amount you’ll have to pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks
in. A higher deductible can lower your monthly premiums, but it also means that you’ll have to
pay more out of pocket if something happens to your home.

At Shield Insurance Agency, we’ll work with you to determine the right deductible for your needs.
We’ll help you find a balance between affordability and coverage so that you can have peace of
mind knowing that you’re protected.

Shield Insurance Agency Represents Over 40 Insurance Companies

At Shield Insurance Agency, we represent over 40 insurance companies. This means that we
have access to a wide range of home insurance options, so we can find the right policy for you
and your family. We’ll work with you to understand your needs and find a policy that fits your
budget.

Contact Shield Insurance Agency for a Free Quote Today

If you’re in the market for home insurance, contact Shield Insurance Agency today for a free
quote. Our experienced agents will work with you to find the right policy for your needs and
budget. We’ll help you protect your home and family so that you can have peace of mind
knowing that you’re covered. Contact us at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today.

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Health Insurance

Health Insurance: The Importance of Protection for You and Your Family

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Health Insurance | Contact Bri or Carlos for details

Medical expenses can be a significant financial burden, especially if you or a family member
requires extensive medical treatment. Health insurance is a crucial tool that can help you
manage these costs and ensure that you and your loved ones receive the care you need. In this
blog post, we will explore the different types of health insurance available, the benefits of having
health insurance, and how to find affordable coverage.

Types of Health Insurance

There are two main types of health insurance: private health insurance and public health
insurance. Private health insurance is typically purchased by individuals or provided by
employers as part of a benefits package. Public health insurance is provided by the government
and includes programs like Medicare and Medicaid.

Supplemental health insurance is another type of coverage that can be added to your existing
health insurance plan. This type of insurance can help cover costs that are not included in your
primary health insurance plan, such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.
Benefits of Having Health Insurance

The primary benefit of having health insurance is protection. Health insurance can help cover
the costs of medical treatment, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription
medications. Without health insurance, these expenses can quickly add up and become
Unmanageable.

In addition to financial protection, health insurance can also provide peace of mind. Knowing
that you and your family are covered in the event of a medical emergency can alleviate stress
and anxiety.

Finding Affordable Health Insurance

One of the biggest concerns for many people when it comes to health insurance is affordability.
Fortunately, there are several ways to find affordable coverage.

One option is to shop around for health insurance quotes. Shield Insurance Agency represents
over 40 insurance companies and can help you find a plan that fits your needs and budget.

Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today.

Another option is to consider a high-deductible health plan. These plans typically have lower
monthly premiums but require you to pay a higher deductible before your insurance coverage
kicks in. While this can be a riskier option, it can also be a good choice for those who are
generally healthy and do not anticipate needing extensive medical treatment.

Finally, you may be eligible for public health insurance programs like Medicaid or Medicare.
These programs are designed to provide coverage for low-income individuals and seniors,
respectively.

Choosing the Right Health Insurance Plan

When choosing a health insurance plan, it is important to consider your specific needs and
budget. Some factors to consider include:

  • Monthly premiums: How much can you afford to pay each month for health insurance?
  • Deductibles: How much will you have to pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in?
  • Copayments and coinsurance: How much will you be responsible for paying for doctor visits,
    prescriptions, and other medical expenses?
  • Network: Does the plan include the doctors and hospitals you prefer to use?
  • Coverage: Does the plan cover the medical treatments and services you need?

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a health insurance plan that provides the
protection you need at a price you can afford.

In conclusion, health insurance is a crucial tool for protecting yourself and your family from the
financial burden of medical expenses. Whether you choose private health insurance, public
health insurance, or supplemental health insurance, it is important to find a plan that fits your
needs and budget. By working with Shield Insurance Agency and carefully considering your
options, you can find affordable health insurance coverage that provides the protection you
need.

Contact A Shield Agent today for a review of your current policy and learn about your healthcare options:

Brianna Kornoelje, Health Benefits Advisor, Direct Line: 616.777.3012

Carlos Garcia, Health Benefits AdvisorHabla español, Direct Line: 616-777-3017

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Biker Gang Gives Granny the Ride of Her Life

Biker Gang Gives Granny the Ride of Her Life

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Great-Grandma Gets 90th Birthday Wish to Ride a Harley Again, Courtesy of a Biker Gang

 Good News Network | Apr 29, 2023 | Biker Gang | Motorcycle Insurance | Start A Quote Here

A great-grandmother who is mad for motorcycles was granted her birthday wish to ride on the back of a Harley-Davidson – a call-back to her youth while celebrating turning 90.

Fearless Brit Barbara Morris said she “felt 21 again” during her spin around town on the powerful American cruising bike.

She mentioned to her family several years ago that if she made it to 90, she’d like to get back in the saddle one last time.

She was left stunned when her sons arrived recently at her nursing home with members of a local biker group. Though wearing a dress, she had no concerns about straddling the bike right there on the spot, before taking a trip with 13 other riders to a pub.

“I just felt the years melt away,” said the great-grandmother of six. “It was just an incredible experience to feel the wind blowing in my face again.”

Barbara got her first motorcycle license as a teen in the 1950s.

Her granddaughter Kirsty Harvey, 34, who helped organize the surprise for Barbara along with the local biker chapter of Widows Sons, said the inspiring senior had a ‘daredevil spirit’ and wasn’t fazed by anything.

“My uncle said to her ‘You always said if you made it to 90, you wanted to go on a Harley,’ and then she said, ‘Oh my gosh, I can’t believe you remember that’.”

“She’s got nerves of steel, she’s not really afraid of anything. She’s kind of from that generation that was made of tough stuff. Nothing really fazes them.”

Barbara got her first bike, a Royal Enfield 350, when she was about 19, and used it to get around while in college. She quickly caught the bug for riding, which she then passed on to the rest of her family.

“She always had a little bike that she nipped about on. Her three sons later all had motorbikes and a keen interest in motorbike racing and groups.”

Visit GoodNewsNetwork.org for the rest of the story…

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Flood Insurance: Protecting Your Home and Family

Flood Insurance: Protecting Your Home and Family

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Flood Insurance | Start a Quote Today!

As a homeowner, you know that your home is one of the most important investments
you will ever make. It is where you and your family live, where you create memories, and
where you feel safe and secure. However, your home is also vulnerable to natural
disasters such as flooding, which can cause significant damage and financial loss. That
is why it is essential to have flood insurance as part of your home insurance policy.
Home Insurance Flooding

Many homeowners assume that their home insurance policy covers flooding, but this is
not always the case. Most standard home insurance policies do not cover flood
damage, which means that if your home is damaged by flooding, you will have to pay for
the repairs out of your own pocket. This can be a significant financial burden, especially
if the damage is extensive.

Rain Storms

Rain storms can cause significant flooding, even in areas that are not considered
high-risk flood zones. It is important to remember that flood insurance covers damage
caused by any type of flooding, not just from rivers and lakes. This means that even if
your home is not located near a body of water, you may still be at risk for flooding during
a rainstorm.

Home Flood Insurance Quote

To protect your home and family from the financial impact of flooding, you need to have
flood insurance. Flood insurance is a separate policy that covers damage caused by
flooding. It is important to note that flood insurance is not included in your standard
home insurance policy, and you will need to purchase it separately.

Home and Flood Insurance

Flood insurance can be purchased as a standalone policy or as an add-on to your
existing home insurance policy. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, it is
recommended that you purchase flood insurance as an add-on to your home insurance
policy. This will ensure that you have comprehensive coverage for all types of damage,
including flooding.

Homeowners Insurance with Flood Coverage

If you are purchasing a new home, it is important to consider flood insurance as part of
your home insurance policy. Many mortgage lenders require homeowners to have flood
insurance if they live in a high-risk flood zone. Even if you do not live in a high-risk flood
zone, it is still a good idea to have flood insurance to protect your home and family from
unexpected flooding.

Flood Insurance Quote

If you are interested in purchasing flood insurance, it is important to get a quote from a
reputable insurance agency. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance
companies, which means that we can provide you with a variety of options for flood
insurance coverage. Our experienced agents can help you find the right policy to meet
your needs and budget.

Protection for Your Family and Home

Flood insurance provides protection for your family and home in the event of a flood. It
can cover damage to your home, personal belongings, and even living expenses if you
are forced to evacuate your home due to flooding. This can provide peace of mind
knowing that you and your family are protected in the event of a natural disaster.

Shield Insurance Agency Represents Over 40 Insurance Companies

At Shield Insurance Agency, we understand the importance of protecting your home and
family from unexpected events such as flooding. That is why we represent over 40
insurance companies, so we can provide you with a variety of options for flood
insurance coverage. Our experienced agents can help you find the right policy to meet
your needs and budget.

Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a Free Quote Today
If you are interested in purchasing flood insurance, contact Shield Insurance Agency
today for a free quote. Our experienced agents can help you find the right policy to meet
your needs and budget. Protect your home and family from the financial impact of
flooding with flood insurance from Shield Insurance Agency.

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Disability insurance is a type of insurance that provides financial protection to individuals who are unable to work due to an injury or illness.

Disability Insurance: Protecting Your Income and Future

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Disability Insurance | Start a Quote Today!

Disability insurance is a type of insurance that provides financial protection to individuals who are unable to work due to an injury or illness. It is designed to replace a portion of your income if you become disabled and are unable to work for an extended period of time. Disability insurance coverage can be purchased as a short-term or long-term policy, depending on your needs.

Term Disability Insurance

Short-term disability insurance provides coverage for a limited period of time, typically up to six months. This type of policy is designed to provide financial support during the initial stages of a disability, such as recovery from surgery or an illness. Short-term disability insurance can help cover expenses such as medical bills, mortgage payments, and other living expenses.

Long-term disability insurance provides coverage for a longer period of time, typically up to several years or until retirement age. This type of policy is designed to provide financial support for individuals who are unable to work for an extended period of time due to a disability. Long-term disability insurance can help cover expenses such as medical bills, mortgage payments, and other living expenses.

Disability Insurance Coverage

Disability insurance coverage can vary depending on the policy and the insurance company. Some policies may cover only specific types of disabilities, while others may cover any disability that prevents you from working. It is important to carefully review the policy and understand the coverage before purchasing disability insurance.

Some disability insurance policies may also offer additional benefits, such as rehabilitation services, vocational training, and survivor benefits. These benefits can help individuals recover from a disability and return to work, or provide financial support to their loved ones in the event of their death.

Shield Insurance Agency Represents Over 40 Insurance Companies

At Shield Insurance Agency, we understand the importance of protecting your income and future. That’s why we offer disability insurance coverage from over 40 insurance companies. Our experienced agents can help you find the right policy to meet your needs and budget.

We work with top-rated insurance companies to provide our clients with the best possible coverage at competitive rates. Our agents are knowledgeable about the different types of disability insurance policies and can help you understand the coverage options available to you.

Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a Free Quote Today

If you are interested in purchasing disability insurance coverage, contact Shield Insurance Agency today for a free quote. Our agents can help you find the right policy to meet your needs and budget. We are committed to providing our clients with the best possible service and support, and we look forward to helping you protect your income and future.

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The History of Memorial Day

The History of Memorial Day

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

HISTORY.COM | APRIL 20, 2023 | Memorial Day | Shield Insurance Agency | Start A Quote Today!

The Birthplace of Memorial Day and Early Observances

The Civil War, which ended in the spring of 1865, claimed more lives than any conflict
in U.S. history and required the establishment of the country’s first national
cemeteries.

By the late 1860s, Americans in various towns and cities had begun holding
springtime tributes to these countless fallen soldiers, decorating their graves with
flowers and reciting prayers.

It is unclear where exactly this tradition originated; numerous different communities
may have independently initiated the memorial gatherings. And some records show
that one of the earliest Memorial Day commemorations was organized by a group of
formerly enslaved people in Charleston, South Carolina less than a month after the
Confederacy surrendered in 1865. Nevertheless, in 1966 the federal government
declared Waterloo, New York, the official birthplace of Memorial Day.

Waterloo—which first celebrated the day on May 5, 1866—was chosen because it
hosted an annual, community-wide event, during which businesses closed and
residents decorated the graves of soldiers with flowers and flags.

Did you know? Each year on Memorial Day a national moment of remembrance takes place at 3:00 p.m. local time.

Decoration Day

On May 5, 1868, General John A. Logan, leader of an organization for Northern Civil War veterans, called for a nationwide day of remembrance later that month. “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land,” he proclaimed.

The date of Decoration Day, as he called it, was chosen because it wasn’t the anniversary of any particular battle.

On the first Decoration Day, General James Garfield made a speech at Arlington National Cemetery, and 5,000 participants decorated the graves of the 20,000 Civil War soldiers buried there.

Many Northern states held similar commemorative events and reprised the tradition in subsequent years; by 1890 each one had made Decoration Day an official state holiday. Southern states, on the other hand, continued to honor the dead on separate days until after World War I.

History of Memorial Day

Memorial Day, as Decoration Day gradually came to be known, originally honored only those lost while fighting in the Civil War. But during World War I the United States found itself embroiled in another major conflict, and the holiday evolved to commemorate American military personnel who died in all wars, including World War II, The Vietnam War, The Korean War and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

For decades, Memorial Day continued to be observed on May 30, the date General Logan had selected for the first Decoration Day. But in 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which established Memorial Day as the last Monday in May in order to create a three-day weekend for federal employees. The change went into effect in 1971. The same law also declared Memorial Day a federal holiday.

Memorial Day Traditions and Rituals 

Cities and towns across the United States host Memorial Day parades each year, often incorporating military personnel and members of veterans’ organizations. Some of the largest parades take place in Chicago, New York and Washington, D.C.

Americans also observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries and memorials. Some people wear a red poppy in remembrance of those fallen in war—a tradition that began with a World War I poem. On a less somber note, many people take weekend trips or throw parties and barbecues on the holiday, perhaps because Memorial Day weekend—the long weekend comprising the Saturday and Sunday before Memorial Day and Memorial Day itself—unofficially marks the beginning of summer.

Visit History.com for the full story and some great photos

Click here for the full story…

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