As the holiday season approaches, businesses across California are gearing up for festive celebrations — office parties, client appreciation events, and year-end gatherings meant to thank employees for a year of hard work. While these events are a great way to boost morale and celebrate success, they can also create unexpected risks when alcohol is involved.
At Scurich Insurance Services, we want to wish you and your team a happy, healthy, and safe holiday season — and help you understand how to protect your business from potential liability during holiday festivities.
Alcohol often plays a central role at holiday parties, and that’s where risk can quietly enter the picture. Many business owners are surprised to learn that if an employee or guest becomes intoxicated at a company-sponsored event and later causes injury or property damage, the business itself may be held legally responsible.
Consider this all-too-real scenario: After enjoying several eggnogs or cocktails at the company holiday party, an employee decides to drive home. On the way, they run a red light and collide with another vehicle, causing serious injuries. The injured party later files a lawsuit — not only against the employee, but also against your business — alleging negligence for continuing to serve alcohol to someone who was clearly intoxicated.
Situations like this are more common than many employers realize, and under California and local “social host” laws, liability can extend beyond civil lawsuits. In some cases, businesses may face fines or other penalties for serving alcohol to someone who is visibly intoxicated. Even when criminal penalties don’t apply, the cost of legal defense alone can be substantial.
This is where insurance coverage becomes critical. Most businesses carry a Commercial General Liability (CGL) policy, which typically includes what is known as host liquor liability coverage. This coverage is designed to protect businesses that occasionally serve alcohol — such as at holiday parties or special events — but are not in the business of selling or serving alcohol as their primary operation.
Host liquor liability coverage can help pay for bodily injury and property damage claims arising from alcohol-related incidents, up to your policy’s “each occurrence” and “general aggregate” limits. Just as importantly, it also covers legal defense costs, court fees, and related expenses — which are often paid outside the policy limits, offering an added layer of financial protection.
However, it’s important not to confuse host liquor liability with Liquor Liability Insurance. Liquor Liability coverage is specifically designed for businesses that manufacture, sell, or serve alcohol as part of their regular operations — such as bars, taverns, restaurants, liquor stores, breweries, wineries, and event venues. These businesses typically need Liquor Liability coverage in addition to a CGL policy, as host liquor liability alone is usually excluded for alcohol-related operations.
Even if your business does not regularly serve alcohol, holiday events are a good time to review your coverage and consider risk-management best practices. Options such as drink limits, professional bartenders trained to identify intoxication, food service throughout the event, ride-share vouchers, or designated-driver programs can significantly reduce exposure.
The holidays should be a time of celebration — not stress or unexpected liability. Taking proactive steps now can help ensure your year-end events remain memorable for the right reasons.
If you have questions about host liquor liability, Liquor Liability Insurance, or whether your current coverage is adequate for upcoming holiday events, the team at Scurich Insurance Services is here to help. We’re happy to review your policies, explain your options, and make sure your business is protected as you celebrate the season.
From all of us at Scurich Insurance Services, we wish you a safe, joyful, and successful holiday season — and a prosperous New Year.
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The Central Coast has always been resilient, but the past few months have reminded all of us how quickly conditions can change. Between heavy winter rains, localized flooding, ongoing road closures, and shifting wildfire risks, residents and businesses across Aptos, Watsonville, and the greater Monterey region have faced another season of unpredictable weather.
At Scurich Insurance Services, our roots in this community run deep. We’ve helped families, farms, and small businesses navigate these challenges for decades — and we want to share a quick update on what’s happening locally and how you can stay protected.
Recent Local Conditions Worth Noting
1. Heavy Rains & Flooding Concerns (Especially in Low-Lying Watsonville Areas)
Recent storm systems brought saturated soils and rising creek levels across the Pajaro Valley. While major flooding has been limited compared to past years, several rural roads saw pooling, and the potential remains when additional storms roll through.
Insurance Tip:
Review your homeowner’s or business policy for flood exclusions. Standard policies do not cover groundwater or floodwater damage. Flood insurance must be purchased separately and often carries a waiting period.
2. Coastal Impacts in Aptos
High surf advisories and bluff erosion have once again affected coastal roads and properties in Aptos. Even residents inland are feeling the effects through road impacts, power outages, or delayed services.
Insurance Tip:
If you live near the coast or own a rental home there, consider reviewing:
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Extended replacement cost coverage
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Earth movement/landslide endorsements
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Loss of use or rental income coverage
These small additions can make a big difference during storm season.
3. Monterey County Agriculture Still Recovering
The storms have continued to impact farm access, equipment storage, and seasonal planting schedules. Operators across Watsonville, Salinas, and Monterey County are recalibrating for 2025.
Insurance Tip:
Agribusiness owners should take time now to review:
Unexpected downtime is one of the largest financial risks a farming operation faces.
4. Wildfire Preparations Restart Soon
Although winter moisture reduces immediate fire danger, spring and summer wildfire planning begins now. Many insurance carriers are updating underwriting standards in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties.
Insurance Tip:
If you received a non-renewal or premium increase, reach out early — options exist, but they fill up fast as the season approaches.
How Scurich Insurance Services Can Help Today
As your local, independent insurance partner, we offer:
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Free policy reviews for homeowners, renters, farms, and businesses
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Flood insurance and excess flood options
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Access to multiple carriers (not just one) so we can shop for the best rate
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Guidance on disaster documentation and preparedness
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Claims support you can rely on when it matters most
Whether you live near the coast in Aptos, operate a business in Watsonville, or manage a property anywhere in Santa Cruz or Monterey counties, we’re here to help you stay protected through every season.
Have Questions About Your Coverage?
We’re local, we’re here, and we’re ready to help.
Contact Scurich Insurance Services today.
Phone: (831) 722-3541
Website: www.scurichinsurance.com
Stay safe — and thank you for trusting us to protect what matters most.
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As we gather with family and friends this holiday season, we hope your table is full, your home is warm, and your heart is grateful. To help you enjoy all the delicious traditions of Thanksgiving—while still taking care of your health—here are six simple tips to keep in mind.
1. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps you feel fuller and can prevent overeating. Keep a glass nearby as you cook, watch football, or enjoy time with loved ones.
2. Load Up on Vegetables
Colorful veggies make great appetizers and sides. Start your meal with a salad or a plate from the veggie tray—nutritious, filling, and perfect for balancing out richer dishes.
3. Sneak Extra Veggies Into Your Recipes
Give your traditional favorites a healthy twist. Try mixing cauliflower into your mashed potatoes, adding shredded carrots to meat dishes, or boosting your stuffing with extra celery, squash, or carrots. It’s an easy way to lighten things up without sacrificing flavor.
4. Ask for the Recipe
If you love a certain Thanksgiving dish, ask the chef for the recipe. Making it throughout the year can curb the urge to overindulge on the holiday itself.
5. Choose Fruit-Forward Desserts
Not every sweet treat needs to be heavy on sugar. Incorporate fresh fruit, frozen fruit bowls, or smoothies to add healthier options to your dessert spread.
6. Make Memories—Not Just Plates
Thanksgiving is about connection. Spend time playing games, taking a walk, looking through old photos, or simply sharing stories. Focusing on family fun keeps the day meaningful and helps shift attention away from overeating.
From everyone at Scurich Insurance, we wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with joy, gratitude, and good health. If you have questions about staying healthy this season or need guidance on your health insurance options, we’re always here to help.
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10 months ago
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by
Erin Carlson ·
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Valued at $46.2 million, the Graff Pink diamond is one of the most expensive pieces of jewelry in the world. Your jewelry box might not hold anything that priceless, but you certainly want to insure your valuable or sentimental pieces, including the diamond cufflinks you wore at your wedding or your grandmother’s ruby brooch. November is Real Jewelry Month and the perfect time to make sure your necklaces, bracelets, rings and other real jewelry are insured.
1. Hire an Independent Appraiser
An independent appraiser will carefully and thoroughly inspect each piece of jewelry you own, and he or she will then determine the exact value of your works of art. Be sure to obtain a signed document that includes a detailed description and appraiser’s value for each piece.
2. Check Your Current Insurance Policy
Most homeowner or renter insurance policies include cash value or replacement coverage for personal belongings. As long as that figure is high enough to cover everything you own, including your real jewelry, you’re set.
3. Purchase a Rider
If your current policy does not cover your valuable gems, purchase a rider. It offers additional coverage for your precious collection.
4. Take Pictures of all Your Pieces
The police need detailed descriptions of your jewelry if a piece is lost or stolen. Take detailed pictures of each piece to increase the likelihood of recovery.
5. Update Your Inventory Regularly
Once you’re sure your jewelry is adequately insured, mark your calendar for an annual inventory review. Add new pieces you recently purchased and remove pieces you sold or gave away to ensure your collection is completely covered.
6. Inspect Your Jewelry
As part of your annual review; take your jewelry for an inspection. The jeweler will look for loose settings, chips or scratches. Take new pictures after any needed repairs are made.
7. Store Your Jewelry in a Safe Place
Insurance will replace your real jewelry if it’s lost, stolen or damaged, but don’t take chances. A fireproof safe hidden in your home or a safety deposit box at the bank protects your gems, especially if you own expensive pieces that you wear only on rare occasions.
You do not want to file a claim for stolen jewelry and find out it wasn’t insured. Follow these tips and talk to your insurance agent today as you protect your valuable collection and celebrate Real Jewelry Month.
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10 months ago
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by
Erin Carlson ·
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October, Adopt a Shelter Dog month, is a great time to add a dog to your family. Be careful which breed you adopt, though. Insurance companies use data from insurance claims and public health studies to create a high risk dog breed list, and your homeowners insurance premiums can increase based on the type of dog you adopt. You can save money when you choose a dog that’s not on the high risk list.
Working Breed Dogs
Agile, powerful and intelligent, Akitas, Alaskan Malamutes, Doberman Pinschers, Rottweilers and Siberian Huskies are also fiercely protective. If they’re not trained properly, these breeds could be potentially dangerous, especially to young children and small pets.
Terrier Breeds
Loyal and protective, American Pitbull Terriers and American Staffordshire Terriers have been bred to hunt. These traits mean they can become aggressive and tenacious if they’re cornered or frightened by one of your family members or guests.
German Shepherds
Police departments, military personnel and ranch hands appreciate this breed because the dogs are intelligent, hard-working and powerful. They’re also suspicious of strangers and won’t back down, which makes them a challenging breed for inexperienced owners to handle.
Chow Chows
Independent and strong Chow Chows are often kept as companions. These fluffy dogs can be aloof and stubborn, though, and should only be adopted by experienced dog owners.
Miscellaneous Breeds
Wolf Hybrid and Presa Canarios dogs exhibit strength and protective characteristics. However, they can also be unpredictable and quick to attack, making them potentially dangerous breeds. Friendly and docile Great Danes are listed on the high risk list, too, because of their size.
A dog adds fun and companionship to your home and family, and adopting a shelter dog is socially responsible. Before you choose a new pet, though, consider whether or not it will increase your homeowners insurance cost. If so, you may choose a different breed or reduce your home insurance premiums by installing a dog fence or raising your deductible.
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11 months ago
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Erin Carlson ·
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Around 65 million Americans have high cholesterol, a condition that can affect anyone from young kids to senior adults. September is Cholesterol Education Month, and you can improve your health when you understand the definition of cholesterol and the best ways to prevent high cholesterol. 
What is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol circulates in your blood and resembles wax or fat. It supports metabolic processes, such as cell membrane stabilization, vitamin D formation, and steroid hormone and bile acid production. It While your body makes cholesterol naturally, it’s also found in food. If you make or consume more cholesterol than your body needs, the excess will accumulate in your arteries and narrow those passageways, which could increase your heart disease and stroke risk.
You have good cholesterol (HDL – high-density lipoprotein), bad cholesterol (LDL – low-density lipoprotein) and triglycerides. The lipoproteins carry cholesterol to and from your body’s cells.
- HDL – Removes bad cholesterol as it flows through your bloodstream.
- LDL – Becomes part of the plaque that lines your arteries.
Your cholesterol levels can depend on several factors, including a family history of heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure. Smoking, alcohol consumption, stress, and your weight can also affect cholesterol levels.
What are Normal Cholesterol Levels?
The ideal cholesterol level is under 170 mg/dL. Your LDL level should be under 110 mg/dL, and your HDL level should be over 35. Aim for a triglyceride level of under 150 mg/dL. While these numbers are confusing, your doctor can explain them and help you achieve healthy levels.
How do you know if you have High Cholesterol?
You might have high cholesterol and not know it. Visit your doctor for a blood test that shows your cholesterol levels. Typically, adults over the age of 20 should have their cholesterol checked every five years. High-risk children should have their cholesterol checked regularly, too.
How is High Cholesterol Treated?
Often, lifestyle changes can reduce your cholesterol levels. Your doctor may recommend exercise and dietary improvements, such as:
- Engage in two hours and 30 minutes of moderate exercise or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous physical activity each week.
- Eat more high-fiber food, including fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
- Limit the amount of saturated fat and sugar in the foods and beverages you consume.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Quit smoking and lower your alcohol intake.
- Reduce stress.
Your doctor may prescribe medication, too. Statins reduce the amount of cholesterol your body makes and can lower your bad cholesterol levels.
This month, raise your cholesterol awareness levels. Visit your doctor for a cholesterol check, and discuss the steps you can take to achieve a healthy lifestyle that improves your health now and into the future
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