A big shout out to Administrative Assistant, Jason Larpenteur who this month celebrates fifteen years as a dedicated Elliott, Powell, Baden and Baker team member.

Jason began his career at EPB&B in 2006 as a part time telemarketer, securing appointments for our producers.  Due to his hard work and proven success record he became a full time team member in 2011 and soon took the initiative to obtain his insurance license.  Over the years Jason has become a man of all trades around the office.  In addition to his current position, you will find Jason backing up the VP of First Impressions, helping our IT department with computer installations, and most anything else that needs to be done. In addition every Valentines Day Jason generously serves as the self appointed Rose Bandit, because he believes that every person should get a rose on that special day.  

“Jason’s positive attitude is contagious,” says EPB&B President Marc Baker. “If something needs to be done, we know Jason is always there.”

Thank You Jason for your years of hard work and dedication to EPB&B.

The sun is out, streaming through those grime-streaked windows, illuminating the fine layer of dust that has settled on the furniture over the winter. It is time to get cleaning. Before you tackle the big stuff, don’t forget to give some extra attention to the often overlooked items that help keep our homes clean all year long.

1. Washing Machine. The soap residue, minerals, and chemicals from your detergent can get locked inside your washing machine and create a thin film that traps bacteria. These bacteria can clog the inner mechanisms, so your water doesn’t get as hot, and your detergent won’t be as strong. Not to mention they can start to get quite stinky after a while. Give your machine a monthly clean utilizing hot water and white vinegar to keep your clothes fresh and clean. 

2.Dishwasher. Even if it is self-cleaning, food bits and detergent particles can clog up the drain and cause bacteria to build, ultimately diminishing the efficiency of your washer. Learn the best way to clean your washer here.

3. Sponges. You can only imagine what’s lurking in your kitchen sponge, right? That squishy square can house up to 300 types of bacteria that end up on your hands, countertops, and in your food. Although there are many ways to clean your sponge, the quickest is to pop it ( make sure it’s wet) in the microwave for about a minute.

Now get to work so you can go outside and play.

 If you see more police patrolling the roads perhaps it is because April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.  Distracted driving is any activity that diverts your attention from driving.  These can include, checking navigation, flipping through music, eating, mediating bickering kids, and the most alarming distraction, texting. 

Even the best drivers are taking a risk when they multitask on the road.  Here are some facts to consider;

• One in four car accidents in the US is caused by texting and driving. 
• It takes up to thirteen seconds to re-focus your surroundings after looking up from a cell phone, even just a glance. 
• Eating while driving poses even a bigger risk than talking on a cell phone.
• According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 71% of large truck accidents involved the driver doing something other than just driving the vehicle. 
• And more.

Please keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road and let’s keep each other safe out there.