February 2022
How to Celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Week
February 17 is International Random Acts of Kindness Day, and for the whole week, people are encouraged to celebrate kindness and reap the scientifically proven positive effects that come from being kind to others.
If you'd like to get involved but need some inspiration for how you can be kind this week, here are a few ideas to get you started.
Do a favor or run an errand for a friend. If you have some free time on your hands but know someone who's overwhelmed with their own commitments, offer to give them a helping hand and lighten their load.
Surprise someone with a gift. Gifts don't just have to be for birthdays or Christmas. Think of the joy you feel when your loved ones are opening the perfect presents, then imagine how much better it feels when they weren't even expecting those gifts in the first place.
Volunteer at a soup Kitchen.
Helping those members of society most in need is not only rewarding: you can walk away knowing that you've made a positive change for people that may not be used to acts of kindness.
Give a compliment to a total stranger. It's nice to hear compliments, and not everyone is used to hearing them, let alone from strangers. One little compliment could completely change someone's day for the better, so give it a try.
Give thanks to the people close to you. It's easy to forget how much we need the people we love and how much they do for us every day. Take time out to actively appreciate and thank your loved ones for helping you be the person you are today.
Quick Quiz
Each month I'll give you a new question.
Just click the button below and submit your answer.
First 10 responders will be entered into drawing for 3 Starbuck's gift cards.
When was the first official International Women's Day celebratory event held?
Last month's winners were:
Russell McKinney
Tanne Jacobo
Brenda Mendoza
Good Words for Our Staff
"Kate and I enjoy the quick friendly service we always receive from everyone in that office. We have recommended Central Sequoia to many friends and will continue to do so. Thank you CSI for always being there for us."
Robert M.
"I rate this insurance office a 10 because I received excellent customer service and a friendly encounter with everyone in this office. I highly recommend them. Not to mention the huge savings on car, homeowners, umbrella & recreational vehicles as well! Barbara Swanson is phenomenal!!"
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Is Gold and Money Covered by Homeowners Insurance?
Not all of us have everything in the bank. Especially in these times of financial instability, more and more citizens are investing in cash and gold rather than keeping everything in one place. But whether it's stuffed under the mattress, buried six feet under in the backyard or locked tightly away in a vault, are you insured if someone manages to break in and steal it?
Most standard home insurance policies will only cover up to $200 worth of money, notes, medals, coins, bullion, silverware and gold. If your belongings add up to much more than that, you may need to alter your insurance to match.
Floater policy
Floater policies cover any kind of loss. This means even things your homeowners policy won't cover, such as a gold bar or an antique coin. Any items that fall under a floater must be professionally appraised, which gives you a higher coverage limit.
Scheduled personal property insurance
This is a policy that extends coverage beyond the standard protection provided by a homeowners' insurance policy. You can even take this out on items stored in a safe deposit box at the bank. By purchasing a scheduled personal property policy, owners can ensure full coverage of expensive items, such as silver and gold, in the event of a claim.
Use a safe
Of course, this isn't the only thing you should do to protect your valuables. However, if you insist on keeping items such as gold bars in your home, invest in a vault. You can also use an authorized depository at companies such as HSBC Bank and JPMorgan Chase.
If you're still unsure about what option works best for you, get in touch with us. We can talk you through your options and help you make the decision that's best for you.
Gooey Brownies
Yields 9
Ingredients
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa

1 cup sugar
1/2 cup melted butter
1 tablespoon oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 cup flour
1/4 tsp salt (omit if using salted butter)
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Grease 8x8 square pan and set aside.
Combine melted butter, oil, cocoa and sugar in medium bowl. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
Add eggs one at a time, then add vanilla and stir until well combined.
Stir in flour and salt until fully combined. Do not overmix.
Spread in pan. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until the center is slightly set.
Cool completely. Cut into 9 squares.
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