Mo’ Money, Mo’ Problems

Mo’ Money, Mo’ Problems

May 12th, 2016 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Working for a living may be less than thrilling, but it makes the finer, more enjoyable things in life possible. And thanks to a more robust economy, businesses are helping out with that by increasing their employees’ salary, according to a recent poll.

Aiming to both retain workers and reward staff members for all their hard efforts, 8 in 10 businesses intend to increase compensation levels for employees this year, a recent survey from CareerBuilder revealed. Additionally, two-thirds will do the same for new hires.

“While employers have been more willing to pay a premium for high-skill labor, they now have to pay more competitive wages for entry-level positions,” explained Matt Ferguson, CEO for the online job search engine. “Workers are gaining leverage.”

Whether it’s buying a second car, or splurging on an all-new vehicle straight from the showroom floor, more money in your pocket can bring more opportunity to improve your standard of living. At the same time, however, it also brings a greater risk of liability, be it in the form of theft, an accident on the roads or a crash out on the water aboard a newly purchased boat.

In short, when your assets grow more expansive, so do your insurance needs. That’s because the more valuable your belongings are, the more it can cost to replace them should they be damaged, lost or stolen.

You can figure out how much coverage you should buy by performing a home inventory – something few of us have done before. Nearly 60% of consumers have not made up a formal list of the items they own, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.

You’ve worked hard to get where you are. Make sure your assets are protected with the proper insurance package. For assistance, speak with your local insurance agent at the Martinson Agency in Chaska, MN.

Don’t leave your insurance to luck! Call today us today!

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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Boat Maintenance Tips

Boat Maintenance Tips

April 8th, 2016 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Summer is right around the corner, and you’re ready to get out on the water. But, is your boat ready? Even if it has been safely stored for the winter and protected from the elements, there are still numerous things you need to do before your boat is ready to hit your favorite lake.

Your boat hasn’t been used in months, so it’s not ready to cruise around the lake just yet. Here are a few things to check with in regards to your engine and electric:

  • Check to be sure that your fuel hoses are in good working condition. Also make sure that the fittings and clamps are secure.
  • Examine your electrical connections for corrosion and be sure that your battery is holding a charge.
  • Check all fluid levels and change or top off as needed.

Damage to your propeller or hull can be a major buzz kill while out on the water. Here are a few things to look for:

  • Dings or distorted propellers. This will lead to a very rough and choppy boat ride and can also damage your drive train.
  • Hulls with blisters or cracks.

You can’t go boating if you can’t get your boat to the water. Here are some maintenance tips for your trailer:

  • Test the lights on your trailer.
  • Inspect the grease fittings on the hubs and apply more if needed.
  • Look over the trailer bunks to make sure the padding isn’t worn out.

Let’s all remember that the Titanic was supposed to be unsinkable. No matter how safe you think your boat is, make sure you travel with all of the necessary safety equipment.

  • Check to be sure that you have enough life jackets for all passengers.
  • Confirm that your navigation lights are in working order.
  • Have a fire extinguisher on board and make sure that it is functional.

Taking the time to examine your boat and make sure that it is ready for the water is important. So take a little time to make this boating season a safe one. Of course we don’t want to forget about insuring your boat or personal watercraft. Please give the Martinson Agency in Chaska, Minnesota a call today with all of your boat insurance needs!

Don’t leave your insurance to luck! Call today!

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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Popular Celebs Insure More Than Cars and Houses

Popular Celebs Insure More Than Just Cars and Houses

March 4th, 2016 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Most people believe that insurance only relates to things like your cars, home or business. Celebrities however, take insurance to a completely different level. We thought it would be fun to share a few examples of popular celebs who have insured their body parts in an effort to protect their money maker.

Trou Polamalu – Troy is a well known retired NFL player who spent 12 seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was famous for being a great player but his three-foot-long hair also turned him into one of the most recognizable players in the league. Because of this, Head & Shoulders hired him to endorse their shampoo. Considering all of this, Troy has those beautiful flowing locks insured for 1 million dollars.

Mariah Carey – Mariah is a five time Grammy winning artist and believe it or not she is also the celebrity with the highest valued legs. She currently has her legs insured for 1 billion dollars. That’s right, billion…with a B.

Bruce Springsteen – No one can belt out “Born in the USA” quite like Bruce Springsteen. Because of this, “The Boss” has his unique vocal chords insured for 5.7 million dollars. Not a bad pay day if Bruce suddenly loses his ability to rock out.

Julia Roberts – Julia is an Oscar winning actress with a million dollar smile, literally. We should probably be a bit more specific, it is actually a 30 million dollar smile. That’s right, Julia Roberts has her smile insured for an astounding 30 million dollars.

Gene Simmons – You know this one right? Mr. Simmons is a bass player for the band KISS. When KISS was at its peak Gene seemed to recognize the value of his signature move; sticking out his ridiculously long tongue. In order to protect himself against the loss of this move, he purchased one million dollars in coverage on that disgustingly valuable skill set.

As you can see, insurance is a valuable resource for far more than just your car, home or business. Obviously, many of us will never have to worry about insuring our tongue, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take a long look at your assets prior to purchasing the first policy you stumble across. Contact your friends at the Martinson Agency in Chaska, MN for a comprehensive review of your insurance needs.

Don’t leave your insurance to luck! Call today!

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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Tips For Traveling With Your Pet

Tips For Traveling With Your Pet

February 26th, 2016 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Spring break season is approaching and for many people that means vacation is approaching as well. No matter how excited you are for a vacation, having to say goodbye to your pet can be tough. You don’t have to leave them behind however; there are plenty of ways to make a vacation suitable for the entire family.

If you are traveling by car with your pet, here are a few things to consider:

  • Keep pets in the backseat – Restraining your pet in the backseat is suggested in order to prevent distractions for the driver. Also, by restraining your pet you will keep everyone in the vehicle safe in the event of an accident.
  • Prevent car sickness – Feed your pet a light meal four to six hours before departing and never give them food or water in a moving vehicle.
  • Take breaks – Stop every two or three hours during a long trip. This will give your pet a chance to move around and get some fresh air.

If you are traveling by air with your pet, please consider the following:

  • Be sure that your pet is fit to fly – Cats and certain breeds of dogs including pugs are prone to severe respiratory problems when kept in an airplane cargo area. Those breeds should only fly in the passenger cabin with their owner.
  • Prepare for the flight – Do not feed your pet less than four hours before departure but provide water until boarding. Take your pet for a walk and make sure it has gone to the bathroom before takeoff.
  • Practice proper “petiquette” – Make sure your pet is clean and under control while on the flight as a courtesy to others. If you and your family make the decision to bring your pet, it is your responsibility to make sure he/she doesn’t ruin the experience for others around you.

Instead of waving goodbye to your pet before leaving for vacation, bring them along for the trip! By following these tips from Martinson Agency you will find greater success in traveling with your four legged friends.

Don’t leave your insurance to luck! Call today!

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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What Is Road Rage and How Can We Avoid It?

What Is Road Rage and How Can We Avoid It?

February 18th, 2016 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

The road can be a dangerous place. Even if you are a safe driver, there is still the threat of every other driver on the road. Aggressive drivers tend to create chaos on the roads. Throughout this article we will define the characteristics of an aggressive driver and also give you a few tips to help you avoid road rage.

What Is Aggressive Driving?

Any driver that is tailgating, honking, weaving in and out of traffic, or taunting other drivers would be defined as an “aggressive driver”. When two aggressive drivers engage in these antics, road rage may take place.

How To Avoid Road Rage?

  • Do NOT engage with aggressive drivers. If another driver cuts you off, don’t respond by tailgating or taunting. This can enrage the other driver and escalate the situation.
  • If at all possible, try to stay out of an aggressive driver’s way.
  • In extreme cases, report the driver. If he or she is putting others in danger it is important that they are stopped.
  • Continue to use safe driving habits by driving the speed limit, using your signals, and changing lanes with caution.

How Does This Impact My Insurance?

The impact road rage can have on your insurance may seem obvious but many are shocked to find out the actual costs of accidents and traffic violations. As you know, road rage increases the likelihood of an accident or being cited for a violation. All carriers are have different eligibility rules but many violations can stay on your record for at least three years. Don’t spend more on insurance than you have to. Drive safely.

Road rage only makes matters worse. Please do your part and focus on your own safe driving habits to make our roads a safer place.

Don’t leave your insurance to luck! Call today!

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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Get Your Home Ready for Cold Weather

Get Your Home Ready for Cold Weather

October 15th, 2015 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Fall brings more than changing leaves, shorter days, and playoff baseball. Here in Minnesota, it also comes with a change in weather conditions. These weather conditions can have a major impact on your home. Before the cold weather takes over, make sure to do some routine home maintenance in order to get things in shape for the months ahead. Here are a few tips to help get you started:

Fall Maintenance Outside Your Home

  • Check your roof: Remove moss from sloped areas and clear any debris from gutters and downspouts. Also, check for any damage and make repairs as soon as possible.
  • Keep your yard free of debris: Clean up and properly dispose of fallen leaves and limbs on a regular basis to help reduce your risk of fire and other hazards.
  • Look out for critters: Rodents and other animals might be looking for warm places to stay for the winter. These critters can be problematic if they find their way into your home for the winter.
  • Check your pavement: If you have cracks in your driveway or other walkways, address them right away. Freezing weather will only make them worse and cause further issues come spring time.

Fall Maintenance Inside Your Home

  • Check for leaks: Examine your water heater and your water main to make sure everything is working properly.
  • Seal things up: If you feel any drafts around windows or doors make sure to take care of the issue right away. This will help keep your energy costs down which saves you money!
  • Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Make sure that these devices are functioning properly in order to prevent a catastrophe.

Home maintenance is key preventing many issues that may otherwise pop up over the winter months. If you have any questions regarding this topic or are interested in how many of these issues impact your home insurance feel free to give our office a call today!

Don’t leave your insurance to luck! Call today!

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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New Carrier Alert: Acuity Insurance

New Carrier Alert: Acuity Insurance

November 5th, 2015 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

We are proud to announce that we have added a new carrier to our stable. We are now appointed with Acuity Insurance based out of Sheboygan, Wisconsin to write home, auto, umbrella and commercial insurance policies. Acuity offers a great selection of products and we wanted to take a moment to share some facts about our new partnership.

Facts about Acuity:

  1. 96% of claimants rate the award winning claim service as “very good” or “excellent”.
  2. Acuity was named the #3 large company to work for in America.
  3. Rated A+ by both AM Best and Standard & Poor’s
  4. Acuity has been in business since 1925 and is listed as the 62nd largest insurer in the nation, with over $3.5 billion in assets.
  5. They write a broad spectrum of property and casualty coverages for families and businesses in 24 states including Minnesota and Wisconsin.
  6. Named to Ward Financial Group’s list of the 50 best run insurance companies in the nation for 15 straight years.
  7. Named one of the top 500 technology companies in the nation by Information Week.
  8. Won more ACORD technology awards than any other carrier in the country in the past 13 years.
  9. With turnover of less than 2%, they attract and retain motivated, experienced and dedicated professionals who are looking to develop a long term relationship with you and your family.

If you are interested in having our agency provide you a quote from Acuity Insurance please contact us at (952) 314-4400 or visit our website, www.martinsonagency.com today!

Don’t leave your insurance to luck! Call today!

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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Top Major League Baseball Stadiums

Top Major League Baseball Stadiums

October 1st, 2015 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

With MLB season winding down our friends at buzzfeed.com decided to rank the top 10 stadiums in Major League Baseball. Does your favorite stadium make the cut? Let us know!

10. Nationals Park

Team: Washington Nationals Capacity: 41,341 Food Highlight: Chili fries from Ben’s Chili Bowl

Spacious and sleek, Nationals Park is a great place to catch a game. There’s tons of food options, from local treasure Ben’s Chili Bowl to national gem Shake Shack. And the Presidents Race in the 4th inning is always fantastic (#LetTeddyWin).

9. Safeco Field

Team: Seattle Mariners Capacity: 47,574 Food Highlight: Mariners’ Fish n’ Chips

This is one of the only baseball stadiums to master the “dome”: It’s just a partial covering of the seats when it rains, so you still feel outdoors. Also, baseball season is the best weather in Seattle, and the stadium keeps up with the classy culinary rep of the city at large.

8. Coors Field

Team: Colorado Rockies Capacity: 50,398 Food Highlight: Rocky mountain oysters!

Since the thinner air at high altitudes helps baseballs really soar, you got more chances of catching a stray one, right? This is also the only ball park to boast a working brewery (A+, Blue Moon), and delicious local favorites: If fried bull testicles aren’t your thing, go for a green chile burrito.

7. Wrigley Field

Team: The Chicago Cubs Capacity: 41,072 Food Highlight: The “High Plains” bison hot dog from Decade Diner

This place is truly timeless. From the ivy-coated walls to the old-school bleachers, it’s easy to feel like you’ve fallen back in time at Wrigley. The food is pretty classic if not exciting, and the consistent crowds are about as friendly as it gets.

6. Dodger Stadium

Team: L.A. Dodgers Capacity: 56,000 Food Highlight: A Kirin Ichiban draft topped with frozen foam

Always packed and always gorgeous, this place has stood the test of time. The California weather, view of the Chavez Ravine, and the Dodger Dog are all pretty reliable reasons to watch a game at Dodger Stadium.

5. Target Field

Team: Minnesota Twins Capacity: 39,021 Food Highlight: The Bloody Mary

This field is not only named for America’s favorite store, but it’s also in the heart of our kindest, most self-effacing state! And not only do you have bites from local standbys like Murray’s Steakhouse, but you can wash it all down with an epic, pizza-garnished Bloody Mary.

4. Miller Park

Team: Milwaukee Brewers Capacity: 41,900 Food Highlight: The Beast: A hot dog stuffed in a brat, all wrapped in bacon and topped with ‘kraut and onions.

If you were hoping a stadium and team named for beer would show you a good time, then you’re in luck. Brewers fans are an awesome tailgating crowd, and the sixth-inning sausage race will keep your appetite fueled for everything from nachos on a stick to classic cheese curds.

3. Oriole Park at Camden Yards

Team: Baltimore Orioles Capacity: 45,971 Food Highlight: Pit beef from Boog’s BBQ

Always ahead of the curve, Baltimore went for timeless charm when other stadiums were trying to cram everything in one concrete package. It’s nostalgic without being cloying, and celebrates Baltimore with all its best food and drink. You stay classy, Camden Yards.

2. Fenway Park

Team: Boston Red Sox Capacity: 37,673 Food Highlight: Lobster roll in the summer, clam chowder for fall.

This place is packed with character and history, and it’s genuinely beautiful. It’s also intimately packed with rowdy fans who are truly delightful so long as you pledge eternal allegiance to their fair city. Though the stadium eats are standard, just outside are tons of places to rally with another beer or enjoy a good meal.

1. AT&T Park

Team: San Francisco Giants Capacity: 41,915 Food Highlight: Garlic sourdough with crab sammie from Crazy Crab’z

Probably the most picturesque park in existence, the home of the Giants has A LOT going for it. There’s the varied and delicious food, some surprisingly good beer, consistently pleasant weather and a winning team to boot. It’s a breezy, retro park that, let’s face it, has pretty much everything you could ask for.

 

**Article courtesy of buzzfeed.com**

 

Don’t leave your insurance to luck! Call today!

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

Paperless Discounts & Benefits

Paperless Discounts & Benefits

July 30th, 2015 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Recently, insurance companies have started offering a paperless billing option. By electing to go paperless, you will stop receiving your bills and documents by mail. Instead, you will receive them via your preferred e-mail. This helps to reduce clutter, provides 24/7 access to your account and can also help you save on your premium. Many insurance companies are now offering a discount for anyone who chooses to go paperless.

Reduce Clutter & Save Paper

The most obvious advantage that a paperless policy provides is the fact that it saves paper & benefits the environment. All of your important insurance documents are stored securely online and can be printed whenever you need them. Enrolling in a paperless program will benefit the environment while providing convenience for you at the same time.

24/7 Access

A paperless policy also means you aren’t stuck waiting for important documents to arrive via U.S. Mail. Whenever you make a change to your policy a confirmation message will be sent directly to your e-mail inbox. This means you will have 24/7 access to new insurance identification cards, payment receipts and billing schedules. When you enroll in the paperless program you will create a unique user ID and password and will be able to access your account from any computer or mobile device.

Automatic Payments

Enrolling in an automated monthly payment plan is another way to save money on your auto insurance. By choosing an automated payment plan you will no longer need to send a payment by mail. Instead, your monthly payment will be automatically deducted from a credit card or a checking/savings account on its due date. This is a discount that will stay with you throughout the life of the policy.

Call Today!

Adding a paperless discount and automatic payments to your current policy can help you save now and in the future. If you have any questions about how to add these discounts or to receive a comprehensive insurance review, please give the Martinson Agency in Chaska, MN a call today!

Don’t leave your insurance to luck! Call today!

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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Terrible Golfer Chronicles His Round to Hilarious Results

Terrible Golfer Chronicles His Entire Round to Hilarious Results

August 6th, 2015 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Like any mediocre golfer knows, sometimes you get in a funk where it seems like throwing your clubs into a fire pit is the only solution. Usually it lasts a few shots, maybe a few holes. But every so often it spans an ENTIRE ROUND. That’s 4-5 hours of pure misery. It can cause even the strongest, most mentally stable person to contemplate tying a cinder block around their ankle and diving headfirst into the closest body of water. It’s hell. And last week I was sitting next to the devil himself.

This is my story.

10:41 a.m.

The sun is shining and things are looking great outside. Sure it’s a little hot but who can complain with 85 degrees? Not me!

12:03 p.m.

We arrive at the course a little early so we have time to hit a few balls. There are four of us so we don’t have to worry about getting paired up with that lonely guy who slows you down by walking the course because he “loves the exercise.”  

12:20 p.m.

We head over to the tee box to start the round and even though I didn’t hit the ball particularly well at the range, I’m filled with optimism; like a teenager heading to his first dance. Maybe I’ll get a kiss! And like that idiot, it’s only a matter of hours before I’m in front of my mom wondering how it all went so wrong.

12:22 p.m.

First shot is a beauty for the first 100 yards. Then it appears to come to a four way stop, remembers it left something at home and takes a sharp left. I’m not talking about a gradual, hooking left. An actual 90 degree angle. Not a good sign. 

12:35 p.m.

First hole is done and I’m putting an 8 on the board. Not a great score but the day is young.

I’d kill for an 8 later in the day. 

12:41 p.m.

My drive on the 2nd hole hits the ground six inches from the spot it is teed up and darts into the water. How does that even happen? I’m still not sure. Can Neil deGrasse Tyson get on the phone and fill me in? After looking to my playing partners for an explanation, all I can come up with is that this could be the longest day of my life. (Spoiler alert: It is!).

1:34 p.m.

Just finished the 4th hole and I’m already wondering if I have enough balls to finish the round. Mind you, I’m splitting a brand new pack of 24 balls with my brother who hasn’t lost a single one yet. I figure that as long as I don’t lose more than 2 per hole for the rest of the day, I should be OK. On the other hand, if I lose 2 balls per hole the rest of the day I may get a one way ticket to North Korea.

1:41 p.m.

5th hole. Par 3. 147 yards.

Splash! Like Kevin Costner in Tin Cup, I calmly reach my hand back to my brother and ask for another ball. He throws me one. I lay it down, and swing again. Splash. So many thoughts are running through my head.

Why is there water there?

Are you allowed to throw the ball down the fairway instead of using a club?

Should I be watching CSI since my childhood crush Elisabeth Shue is the co-star?

But all I can do is stare blankly into the distance like a guy who just walked in the YMCA changing room for the first time after the 6am Senior Swim Session.

Some things you can’t unsee. 

2:20 p.m.

Just finished the 7th hole and my score card reads as follows.

8, 7, 8, *, 6, $, 8,000

Sometimes it’s better to give yourself a fictional $ sign than to actually count up all your strokes and realize that if your score was a person, it’d be able to do everything except rent a car.

2:51 p.m.

Finally done with the front 9. Even though there isn’t really anybody in front of us we’re moving at a slow pace. Could it have to do with me hitting 10 shots every hole? Possibly…but I’m open to other explanations.

3:07 p.m.

Finally teeing off on 10. I contemplated staying at the bar and having a few drinks but I figure I’d probably hook those left as well. Plus, I need some redemption!

3:08 p.m.

Sticking with my driver even though it has failed me all day. Kind of like returning to the same pizza place that has given you food poisoning the day before. Maybe, Geno washed up today!

No thinking Mike, you can do this. Be loose!

Swing and a drive. It’s long and gliding right. It could be out of play but I’m secretly thrilled I made solid contact. Guess who’s back baby?!

3:14 p.m.

The ball is nowhere to be found. It may have hit a tree or God may have sent an angel down to remove it from earth and put me one closer to death. Hey who am I to argue? It’s his plan!

3:44 p.m.

My 5 iron almost goes flying from my hands on a swing. Likely from the pounds of SPF 30 I’ve applied every hour but hey, if being a pale skinned, lumpy bastard were easy everyone would do it!

4:02 p.m.

I start to snap. After another terrible drive, I drop in the middle of the fairway because rules went out the window the moment I started playing with these knockoff Pinnacles (can you get lower than that?).  My dad tells me to take my time. Holy crap pops, really? It’s like telling a baseball player who hasn’t gotten a hit in days that he’s due! Just in case you didn’t know, here are a few things you shouldn’t say to someone struggling on the golf course.

Keep your head down.

Hey thanks for the tip. Should I have a safe flight too? Out of my control man!  

Take your time.

I could sit here for 2 hours and we both know my next shot is going to skip more times than Punky Brewster after hearing she’s been adopted by Henry Warnimont. (Nice timely reference Mike…Shut your face).

Hit another one.

I’ll hit another ball whenever I want. As Ivan Drago would say, I play for me…for meeeeee! (Getting closer to modern day with that reference but still a bit off…I know, I know).

4:33 p.m.

16th Hole. By some grace of God I’m putting for Par. Instead of playing the slight break from right to left, I decide to blast it with all my might right at the cup. Kind of like Happy Gilmore when he first gets on the green. But unlike Happy, I can’t drive the ball 350 yards. Although getting my hand ripped off by an alligator like Chubbs seems pretty appealing right now.

5:02 p.m.

18th hole. Bam! A drive 225 yards right down the middle of the fairway.  I’m back baby! No clue how or why it happened but it did. It’s almost like I was being punished for something I did in a past life and now I’m free. Let’s birdie this bad boy.

5:06 p.m.

My second shot goes an estimated 17 yards. Woof sandwich.

5:09 p.m.

Third shot and I’m in chipping range. I hit the ground about a foot behind the ball and almost broke my wrist. I wish I did, then I wouldn’t have to golf for months. That’s a win!

5:21 p.m.

I tap in for a score somewhere between a 7 and a 10. Round finished. Spirit broken.

Should I quit golf forever? Should I finally embrace that gut I’ve been harvesting for the past couple years and join a bowling league? Maybe weekly poker nights is more my speed?

I’m a broken man. My hands are calloused, I’m crashing after a diet of candy bars and gatorades, and I’m pasty from a year’s worth of sun tan lotion used in 4 and 1/2 hours. 

But on the ride home a funny thing happens; all I can think about is that beautiful drive on 18. 225 yards, RIGHT DOWN THE MIDDLE.

“Wanna play again on Monday?” my dad asks. I pause only for a moment. “Sure!” 

Back to Geno’s. Hopefully this time he washes his hands.

**Entertainment is courtesy of BroBible.com**

 

Don’t leave your insurance to luck! Call today!

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com