John 's Bloghttp://activerain.com/blogs/johntunnell2008-07-25T15:58:20ZJohn Tunnell (Allstate Insurance Company)The Allstate Foundation Awards $500 To North River Commission on Behalf of Local Allstate Agent John Tunnellhttp://activerain.com/blogsview/609311/The-Allstate-Foundation-Awards-500-To-North-River-Commission-on-Behalf-of-Local-Allstate-Agent-John-Tunnell2008-07-25T15:58:20ZJohn Tunnell (Allstate Insurance Company)
<p style="text-align: right;"><strong>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE </strong>Contact: JENNY VAUPEL</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"> <strong>The Allstate Foundation Awards $500 To </strong><strong>North River</strong><strong> Commission on Behalf of </strong><strong>Local<br /></strong><strong> Allstate Agent John Tunnell</strong></p>
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<p><strong>BUFFALO GROVE, IL, July 25, 2008</strong>- John Tunnell an Allstate agent in Chicago, IL, received the Agency Hands in the Community award for his commitment to volunteering in the community. With this award comes a $500 grant from The Allstate Foundation for North River Commission where Tunnell volunteers.</p>
<p>"As a business owner, I feel it is important to give back to the communities I serve by volunteering my time to nonprofit organizations," Tunnell said. "It is great to know that Allstate supports the volunteer work I do outside my office."</p>
<p>Through the "Agency Hands in the Community" grant program, Allstate agents and financial specialists are recognized for outstanding commitment to community service with a $500 donation to the charitable organization where they volunteer. To qualify for the grant, agents must show evidence of volunteer work that has had a positive impact on the local community. Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation. The Allstate Foundation partners with nonprofit organizations on community initiatives that promote "safe and vital communities," "tolerance, inclusion, and diversity" and "economic empowerment." Teen driving and empowering victims of domestic violence have been priorities for the Foundation since 2005. </p>
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<p align="center"># # #</p> Ways to save money on insurance without cutting corners on coveragehttp://activerain.com/blogsview/607172/Ways-to-save-money-on-insurance-without-cutting-corners-on-coverage2008-07-24T09:52:11ZJohn Tunnell (Allstate Insurance Company)
<p>When it comes to protecting assets such as a home or condominium, I have found that many insurance shoppers are looking for a great price for their policy without truly understanding the coverage that they have. With the current economic conditions, I can certainly relate to trying to save money! </p>
<p>When we review coverages, we are seeing that some significant gaps exist in the coverage. It is very important to review apple to apple coverages so that you aren't just paying less for lower limits of coverage and exposing what you have worked so hard for.</p>
<p>If you haven't had a review in the last couple of years, it is very important to call your agent and review any changes. For example, if you have added a security system, made any major improvements to your kitchen, wiring, or plumbing, you might have the opportunity for new discounts to be added to your policy.</p>
<p>The available discounts vary from company to company, but a major way to save money on your insurance premium is with a multiple-policy discount. You can save on average 35% by combining your auto and home policy with the discount. Many companies offer discounts for enrolling in an automatic payment system and also for paying on time. </p>
<p>If you would be interested in a free coverage review on any of your policies, feel free to call us at 773-279-8600 or email me at <span><a href="mailto:johntunnell@allstate.com">johntunnell</a><a href="mailto:johntunnell@allstate.com"></a><a href="mailto:johntunnell@allstate.com">@allstate.com</a>.</span></p>
<p> </p> Five Ideas for Spring Cleaninghttp://activerain.com/blogsview/449860/Five-Ideas-for-Spring-Cleaning2008-04-01T16:58:47ZJohn Tunnell (Allstate Insurance Company)
<p> </p><p align="center"><strong>Your Home Is Thinking Spring...Are You?</strong></p><p align="center">Allstate Has Five Ideas For Spring Cleaning </p><p align="center"> </p><p>Did you know the weight of heavy winter snows could change the slope of your front lawn, or that the air conditioner outside your home could cause water damage inside your house? Last year, Allstate policyholders filed more than 910,000 insurance claims for damage to their homes. Of these, more than 430,000 claims were for damages caused by daily problems like broken water pipes, cracked washing machine hoses, and leaky roofs -- showing it doesn't take a fire or disaster to hurt your home. </p><p> </p><p>"Winter weather can be extremely hard on a house. Spring-cleaning is an excellent opportunity to identify and correct minor, seasonal problems that could end up causing more significant damage, frustration, and possibly an insurance claim down the road," said Agent John Tunnell</p><p><strong>Five easy ideas for spring-cleaning...</strong></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>Check roofs and windows...</strong></p><p> </p><p>Visually inspect roof valleys, chimneys, skylights, and vent flashings.</p><p> </p><p>Temperature changes from the hot summer to the cold winter can cause expansion and contraction, which may lead to cracking in some roof cement and window caulking materials, creating potentially damaging water leaks. All exterior caulking maintenance should also be performed during spring-cleaning. </p><p> </p><p><strong>Walk your yard...</strong></p><p> </p><p>Check the grading of your property to ensure it drains away from your home's foundation. </p><p> </p><p>Wet and snowy winter weather can cause soil to settle in plant and flowerbed areas, which are usually adjacent to your home's foundation wall. This can cause water to build up next to the foundation and possibly get into your home. If needed, re-fill or re-grade depressed areas. Basement window wells should also be cleaned and covers considered -- avoiding rainwater build-up and unnecessary leakage in these areas.</p><p><strong>Inspect gutters...</strong></p><p> </p><p>Gutters should be inspected for debris and proper mounting. </p><p> </p><p>The expansion and weight of ice and snow from winter storms can loosen gutters from their mounting points causing a change in pitch and water flow. Also, make sure downspouts are extended far enough to carry water away from the foundation wall of your house. </p><p> </p><p><strong>Condition your air conditioner...</strong></p><p> </p><p>Check the drainage pan and lines.</p><p> </p><p>The drainage pan and drain line should be free of dust and debris that may accumulate over the winter. An obstructed pan and line could lead to an overflow and water damage.</p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>Test pumps...</strong></p><p> </p><p>If you have a sump-pump, test it to make sure it is working properly.</p><p> </p><p>Test the motor, float switch, and check valve to see if they are working properly and water is draining from the chamber. A back-up pump, or system, may be a consideration if you live in an area prone to groundwater problems.</p><p> </p><p>Some work, particularly on roofs, may require professional services. Some homeowners may not be comfortable inspecting or working on their roof or on ladders. If so, check references with your local better business bureau, homebuilders association, or contractors association to help ensure you're hiring a qualified, reputable repair professional to work on your home. </p><p> </p><p align="center"> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p><strong><br /></strong> </p><p> </p> Local Allstate Exclusive Agents John Tunnell and Edward Courrier Team up with Senn High School to protect teen drivershttp://activerain.com/blogsview/406809/Local-Allstate-Exclusive-Agents-John-Tunnell-and-Edward-Courrier-Team-up-with-Senn-High-School-to-protect-teen-drivers2008-03-04T12:26:55ZJohn Tunnell (Allstate Insurance Company)
<p align="center"> </p><p>Chicago, IL - March 4, 2008 - Teen drivers make up only 7 percent of the driving population in Illinois, but these young drivers are involved in 20 percent of the state's motor vehicle crash fatalities. In 2006, 151 of the 1,254 people who died on Illinois roadways were teenagers. </p><p>Allstate Exclusive Agents John Tunnell located in Chicago and Edward Courrier located in Chicago are helping prevent future teen driving tragedies by raising awareness among local teens of unsafe driving behaviors that lead to needless crashes, injuries and fatalities. Tunnell and Courrier are now teaming up with Senn High School, one of the more than 100 Illinois high schools, which have been awarded grants through a new state initiative. </p><p>Operation Teen Safe Driving is a state government program supported by The Allstate Foundation in partnership with the Ford Fund. It is designed to help Illinois high schools implement local teen-led safe driving campaigns to decrease the number of fatalities and crashes involving teenagers in Illinois. More than 220 high schools submitted applications, and after a thorough selection process, 104 schools have been chosen to receive funding to implement their programs. </p><p> "Students at these schools went above and beyond in coming up with ways to educate their peers about safe driving and we look forward to seeing these schools move forward with their plans," said Governor Rod Blagojevich. "Illinois leads the nation in putting tough new laws in place designed to save the lives of teen drivers, and now our teens are getting personally involved in these efforts."</p><p>"I'm truly honored to be part of such a meaningful effort that will make a huge difference in our community," said Courrier. Tunnell added, "It's critical for young drivers to understand the responsibilities they inherit each time they get behind the wheel. I feel that the combined efforts of our school and community will help save young lives." Both agents<u> </u>will now be working with Senn High School on an upcoming safe driving program for students. </p><p>The Allstate Foundation has conducted extensive research and built programs promoting teen safe driving locally and around the country. To find out more: log onto <u><a href="http://www.protectteendrivers.com/">http://www.protectteendrivers.com/</a></u> and <u><a href="http://www.keepthedrive.com/">http://www.keepthedrive.com/</a></u>. </p><p>Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation. The Allstate Foundation partners with non-profit organizations on community initiatives that promote "safe and vital communities," "tolerance, inclusion, and diversity" and "economic empowerment." Teen driving and empowering victims of domestic violence have been priorities for the Foundation since 2005. </p><p>The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate<sup>®</sup>" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 14,800 exclusive agencies and financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate<sup>®</sup>. Encompass<sup>®</sup> and Deerbrook<sup>® </sup>Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. The Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers. </p><p> </p><table cellspacing="0" border="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%"><tbody><tr><td><p align="center"> </p></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p> </p> Top Ten Reasons To Do Business With Our Agencyhttp://activerain.com/blogsview/204609/Top-Ten-Reasons-To-Do-Business-With-Our-Agency2007-09-14T12:01:14ZJohn Tunnell (Allstate Insurance Company)
<p><strong>TOP TEN REASONS TO DO BUSINESS WITH OUR AGENCY</strong></p><ol><li><strong>Licensed advisors will explain your current coverages and help determine your protection needs.</strong></li><li><strong>An 800-number can't look you in the eye and tell you it will be OK. We are here to talk to you face-to-face.</strong></li><li><strong>We review your protection annually to ensure proper coverage.</strong></li><li><strong>We help review your financial situation; your long-term goals and helping you protect all of your assets.</strong></li><li><strong>We're able to help you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling 773-279-8600.</strong></li><li><strong>We can assist you in the event of a claim.</strong></li><li><strong>We value your time and can meet by appointment if our office isn't open when you are available.</strong></li><li><strong>Payment can be made by phone by calling 1-800-901-1732, online at the Customer Care Center on Allstate.com, by mail, in person, or through mycheckfree.com, your online banking account, or Western Union.</strong></li><li><strong>We will make you a priority and provide you with the service that you deserve.</strong></li><li><strong>We are not satisfied until you are satisfied.</strong></li></ol><p><strong>If you would like to review your current policies, or have questions, please call us at 773-279-8600. If you would like to complete a quote visit our <a href="http://agent.allstate.com/johntunnell" target="_blank">site</a>.</strong></p> Business Mixer Opportunityhttp://activerain.com/blogsview/170505/Business-Mixer-Opportunity2007-08-10T14:29:13ZJohn Tunnell (Allstate Insurance Company)
<p>I would like to host a business mixer at my office located at 2934 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618. I would like to schedule it on Thursday October 4th. I thought it would give an opportunity for everyone in the area to get to know each other and find contacts in different industries. If you would be interested in attending, please email me at <a href="mailto:johntunnell@allstate.com">johntunnell@allstate.com</a>. Hope to see you there!</p> Guide to Condominium Insurancehttp://activerain.com/blogsview/166503/Guide-to-Condominium-Insurance2007-08-06T15:47:14ZJohn Tunnell (Allstate Insurance Company)
<p>When it comes to shopping for condominium insurance, there are a lot of decisions to make and details to work out before you make a choice. It is important to help protect your investment by choosing insurance that you decide is right for you. You should consider the following coverage.</p><p> <strong>Typical covered perils include:</strong></p><ul><li>Fire</li><li>Lightning</li><li>Wind and Hail</li><li>Freezing of Plumbing</li><li>Smoke</li><li>Theft</li><li>Explosion</li><li>Falling Objects</li><li>Vandalism/Riot</li></ul><p><strong>Typical coverages include:</strong></p><ol><li>Property Protection</li><li>Guest Medical Protection</li><li>Liability Protection</li><li>Additional Living Expenses</li><li>Loss Assessments Coverage</li></ol><p><strong>Questions to Ask Before Selecting your Condo Insurance:</strong></p><ul><li>How much coverage does my condo association carry?</li><li>What parts of my condominium does my association not cover?</li><li>What are my insurance responsibilities?</li><li>How much would it cost to repair the inside of my home if it were damaged?</li><li>What kind of protection do I have against liability claims?</li></ul><p>You should review your coverage with you agent each year to make sure that you are properly covered. If you haven't had a review lately, I would be happy to help you.</p><p> </p><p>If you would like a quote, click <a href="http://home-insurance-quote.allstate.com/prop/intro.asp?a=1&m=5&AWSFlag=Y&CFEA=JOHNTUNNELL&agent=036758&AgentType=41&PFR=N&AgentName=John%20Tunnell&AgentPhone=(773)%20279-8600&LState=IL&LNum=%20&LName=%20&State=IL&Product=Ho&BinderID=191499234420&ProdID=3" target="_blank">here.</a></p> Discounts for Home Insurancehttp://activerain.com/blogsview/160084/Discounts-for-Home-Insurance2007-07-30T13:15:27ZJohn Tunnell (Allstate Insurance Company)
<p>Many first time buyers aren't aware of the possible discounts available to them when they purchase home insurance. Allstate offers a discount to all new home purchases within the past 12 months of 10%. This can help reduce the out of pocket expenses associated with a closing. There is also a discount available for newly built homes and condominiums up to 47%! If the property has had any renovations, tell your Agent and ask if there are discounts available.</p><p>Other discounts include:</p><ul><li>Claim Free</li><li>55 and retired </li><li>Protective Device</li><li>Age of Home</li><li>Multiple Policy Discount</li></ul><p>For a quote, you can click <a href="http://home-insurance-quote.allstate.com/prop/intro.asp?a=1&m=5&AWSFlag=Y&CFEA=JOHNTUNNELL&agent=036758&AgentType=41&PFR=N&AgentName=John%20Tunnell&AgentPhone=(773)%20279-8600&LState=IL&LNum=%20&LName=%20&State=IL&Product=Ho&BinderID=191499234420&ProdID=3" target="_blank">here</a></p><p> </p> The Joy of Cold Callinghttp://activerain.com/blogsview/155974/The-Joy-of-Cold-Calling2007-07-25T11:43:44ZJohn Tunnell (Allstate Insurance Company)
I have been spending most of my morning today calling potential clients using Sales Genie leads. I have to admit that I do not enjoy cold calling! I know it is sometimes a great tool when the timing is right. I spend time doing it everyday and it has lead to some great clients, yet I truly would like to find a better way to find new customers. I have tried using telemarketing services and that seems to be a waste of money. Does anyone have a great telemarketing or other types of marketing strategies that they could share? I would appreciate it! Safeguarding your family and home while travelinghttp://activerain.com/blogsview/154942/Safeguarding-your-family-and-home-while-traveling2007-07-24T09:10:24ZJohn Tunnell (Allstate Insurance Company)
<p> </p><p><strong><strong>How I Spent My Summer Vacation...</strong></strong></p><p align="center"><strong>Make it a Happy Ending with Some Simple Safety Tips</strong></p><p align="center"><em>Know how to safeguard your family and your home while traveling</em></p><p>Summer is officially underway and if you're planning on traveling in the next few weeks, you'll have a lot of company. The Department of Transportation's Bureau of Statistics reports that in recent years, Americans have taken around 650 million long distance summer trips between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends. And the average summer long-distance trip is 284 miles one-way.</p><p>With all that time away from your home, vacationers may be opening the door to potential thieves who look for telltale signs indicating no one is around. Those looking to take advantage of unsuspecting travelers might also target you and your family while on vacation. "You can help make family trips more enjoyable by taking a few simple steps to reduce the possibility you'll become an easy target for thieves preying on tourists or your empty home," says Allstate Insurance agent John Tunnell."</p><p>To ensure a safe summer vacation for you and your family, Allstate recommends the following tips:</p><p><strong>Make sure your home is protected while you're away:</strong></p><ul><li>Stop mail and newspapers, or ask a neighbor to pick them up every day. </li><li>Put several household lights on timers so they turn on and off at appropriate times. </li><li>Arrange to have grass mowed while you're gone. </li><li>Ask a neighbor to park in your driveway overnight - anything that might suggest someone's home. </li></ul><p><strong>Make sure you don't pack unnecessary items and that your valuables are protected: </strong></p><ul><li>Clean out your wallet or purse before you go; take only essential credit cards. </li><li>Carry your purse close to your body, or wallet in an inside front pocket. Better yet, take a "fanny pack" or wear a money pouch under your clothes. </li><li>Pack as lightly as possible. Lots of heavy, cumbersome bags will slow you down and make you more vulnerable to getting robbed. </li><li>Keep a separate record of the contents of checked luggage. Keep anything of value such as medicine and jewelry in a carry-on that stays with you. </li></ul><p><strong>Try to blend in with the crowd and not look too many like tourists:</strong></p><ul><li>Don't display expensive jewelry, cameras, bags, and other items that might draw attention. </li><li>Check maps before you go out so you can tour confidently. </li><li>Stick to well-lighted, well-traveled streets at all times. </li><li> Leave an itinerary of your trip with someone at home in case you need to be contacted. Carry an extra passport photo with you just in case you need to replace a stolen passport</li><li>Don't use your home address on you luggage tags. You don't need to let anyone know where your empty house is located. Consider using your business card instead.</li></ul><p> </p><p> </p><br /><p> </p> Insurance for Illinois closingshttp://activerain.com/blogsview/154152/Insurance-for-Illinois-closings2007-07-23T13:56:13ZJohn Tunnell (Allstate Insurance Company)
I can help provide you with a binder of insurance coverage for a home or a condominium within 30 minutes. I am committed to providing you with fast turn around time and can be available when needed!