Any excess, surplus, and/or specialty lines product or insurance program offered new to the industry. Disclaimer (please read)

Insurance Specialty Group, LLC (ISG)

New Comprehensive Program Exclusively for Banks, Investors and Builders with Distressed & Unfinished Real Estate -ISG's Real Estate Proactive Program™

Atlanta, Ga. - Insurance Specialty Group, LLC ("ISG") and Pacific Wholesale Insurance Brokers ("PWIB") have created a product that combines comprehensive commercial general liability insurance, risk management and loss control with a 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty new home, ten year, insured structural defect warranty and complete home inspections. According to Jim Leach, EVP, the new real estate proactive program has already achieved early significant success with major bank clients.

Target market for this program includes banks, and investors involved with buying, completing and selling foreclosed residential and commercial real estate. The program covers finished residential and commercial properties as well as those properties where construction will be completed.

ISG's Real Estate Proactive Program™
There are several features of the ISG Real Estate Proactive Program™. They include ISG's proprietary model of combining general liability coverages with insured structural warranties (designed to capture claims in contract, and avoid tort), Skyetec comprehensive home inspections, and risk management procedures and protocols developed over the last decade by ISG's Asset Protection Program.

Leach explains "This is a very exciting product and opportunity in today's depressed economy. We work closely with the REO owner to maximize portfolio values (by 5-15%, verified by independent sources), minimize costs and exposure, and protect the bank/fund/builder's balance sheet. We discuss and evaluate exposures in view of implied warranty laws and the lender's assumed liabilities in this economy. Importantly, we offer a program and a process; not just an insurance quote."

In addition to the ISG Real Estate Proactive Program™, for which ISG is the Managing General Agent with full underwriting authority, ISG/PWIB has access to several quality surplus lines markets who offer complementary commercial general liability insurance products for banks and investors involved in buying, completing and selling distressed residential and commercial real estate.

About Insurance Specialty Group and Pacific Wholesale Insurance Brokers
Pacific Wholesale Insurance Brokers is a wholly owned subsidiary of Insurance Specialty Group, LLC. Insurance Specialty Group has 11 offices serving clients in over 40 states. Insurance Specialty Group's main office is in Atlanta, GA. Phone (678) 742-6300; FAX (678) 742-6301, www.insurancespecialtygroup.com

National Interstate

National Interstate Announces Partnership with U.S. Rail Insurance Company, Inc. RRG Specialized Liability Insurance Program for the Shortline and Regional Railroad Industry

Richfield, Ohio - National Interstate Insurance Company, a leading provider of alternative risk transfer insurance, announced it has entered the railroad insurance market through a partnership with U.S. Rail Insurance, Inc. RRG. The U.S. Rail Liability Program is an alternative risk management solution available for shortline, regional, and rail affiliated companies throughout the United States. Targeted companies include freight, scenic, rail museums, railroad associations, railroad service companies, railroad protective, and railroad equipment lessors and lessees. The program is administered by United Shortline Insurance Services, Inc. and insurance coverages are offered jointly by National Interstate and U.S. Rail Insurance Company, Inc. In addition to liability, other coverage lines are also available outside of the alternative risk structure through both carriers.

National Interstate and U.S. Rail developed this specialized insurance program designed for best-in-class railroad companies with a commitment to safe operating practices. This unique risk management solution offers many long-term benefits not available through traditional insurance including stable annual insurance premiums, potential return of premium, and enhanced customer service and claims handling.

"National Interstate is extremely pleased to partner with U.S. Rail Insurance Company to bring this innovative insurance program to the railroad industry," said Dave Michelson, President of National Interstate Insurance Company. "We believe this is an excellent opportunity for railroad companies to capitalize on their positive safety records, and realize the many benefits available only through alternative risk management. National Interstate is also excited to add yet another market to our growing captive business which targets specific areas of the transportation industry. We now manage over 27 captive insurance programs representing over 60% of our business as of June 30, 2009."

"U.S. Rail and United Shortline Insurance Services have brought to this important industry a 'New Train of Thought' on how the shortline railroad industry handles its risk management," said Louis M. Schillinger, Chief Executive Officer of United Shortline Insurance Services, Inc. "For the first time in history, a shortline owned, managed, and financed insurance company is focusing its resources on the railroad industry it services with a program designed to provide stable costs and customized coverages for the foreseeable future. Our relationship with National Interstate enhances our program as we are now able to offer customers the added strength of an "A" rated carrier with over 20 years of expertise in transportation and specialty insurance while maintaining the unique opportunity for the policyholders to own a share of U.S. Rail with each policy."

About National Interstate
National Interstate Insurance Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of National Interstate Corporation (Nasdaq: NATL), is a specialty property and casualty insurance holding company Page 1 of 2 with a niche orientation and focus on the transportation industry. We differentiate ourselves by offering insurance products and services designed to meet the unique needs of targeted insurance buyers. Our products include insurance for transportation companies, alternative risk transfer, or captive insurance programs for commercial risks, specialty personal lines consisting of insurance products focused primarily on recreational vehicle owners and small commercial vehicle accounts, and transportation and general commercial insurance in Hawaii and Alaska. We offer our insurance products through multiple distribution channels including independent agents and brokers, affiliated agencies and agent Internet initiatives. Our insurance subsidiaries are rated "A" (Excellent) by A.M. Best Company. Founded in 1989, we are headquartered in Richfield, Ohio with operations in Honolulu, Hawaii, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, and St. Thomas, Virgin Islands.

Contact: Tanya Inama National Interstate Corporation, 877-837-0339, investorrelations@natl.com

About U.S. Rail Insurance Company, Inc. U.S. Rail Insurance Company, Inc. RRG, a Vermont domiciled insurance company and licensed as a risk retention group in 44 states, is the first shortline railroad owned and managed insurance company in railroad history. With its risk sharing partner, National Interstate, it represents the only admitted carrier offering railroad coverage in the US. U.S. Rail is a non-assessable stock insurance company, reinsured with "A" rated reinsurance to a maximum limit of $25,000,000, was licensed in 2007, and founded by United Shortline Insurance Services, Inc. a 24 year veteran of the shortline railroad industry. United Shortline's executive team serves as President and CFO of U.S. Rail with railroad owners managing the company through its Board of Directors

Visit www.usrailinsurance.com for more information.

Rockford Mutual Insurance Company

Connective Technologies, Inc. Announces TEAM-UP Agency Download Contract with Rockford Mutual Insurance Company

Houston, TX, - Connective Technologies announces the contract signing of TEAM-UP(tm) Download with Rockford Mutual Insurance Company ("RMIC") located in Rockford, Illinois for the premier servicing of agency download. With their wide array of both personal and commercial lines offerings and long-standing presence in the Midwest, RMIC is offering the TEAM-UP suite of products to their trading partners. TEAM-UP provides once-and-done processing in an industry compliant, data-secure environment for agency downloads.

Gary Kasakaitas, Information Technology Manager for RMIC stated, "Our selection of TEAM-UP broadens our expansion of agency download to all of our agencies. Our goal is to provide these agents with state-of-the-art, real-time processing efficiencies at a low cost, further promoting our ease of doing business with them."

Dic Marxen, CEO of Connective Technologies adds, "We're excited to bring RMIC on-board. Their presence and reputation in the Midwest communities makes it a privilege for us to do business with them. We look forward to delivering on our commitment for a successful agency deployment of TEAM-UP and are appreciative of their selection of Connective's agency interface solutions."

TEAM-UP Download is an Internet-secure offering being leveraged by more than 55 P&C carriers in providing accessibility to over 28,000 communicating agency pairs using more than 40 different agency management systems throughout every region in the United States. Now in its third major release, the product has matured to ensure agencies have a seamless migration from other download processes. The improved self-reliant features such as single-policy, real-time archival retrievals by the agents, improved group management distribution and tracking features that ease and accelerate the registration process for both agencies and carriers, have been implemented with TEAM-UP's Service Oriented Architecture. This environment ensures a seamless fit into carriers' existing agency portals and incorporates a single-process entry point at the agency for accessing multiple carriers downloads.

About Rockford Mutual Insurance Company:
Rockford Mutual Insurance Company incorporated on December 8, 1971 under the laws of Illinois to become the successor to Rockford District Mutual Tornado Insurance Company. The latter was organized on November 2, 1896 in Illinois and began business on December 1, 1896 as Rockford Farmers' District Mutual Tornado Insurance Company. The word "Farmers" was deleted from the corporate title on January 16, 1940.

Currently, we write Automobile, Homeowners, Farmowners, Umbrella, Commercial, Watercraft and Recreational Vehicle coverage's in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Missouri. These product offerings vary by state. Rockford Mutual is committed to the Independent Agency System and all of our business is produced through a network of independent agents who understand the needs of our customers. Rockford Mutual Insurance Company is rated A- (Excellent) by A.M. Best Co. Please visit our website: www.rockfordmutual.com .

About Connective Technologies, Inc.
Connective Technologies, Inc. is a leading provider of e-Commerce business solutions for the property and casualty insurance industry, specializing in Internet interface solutions for carriers and their agents. Connective has used its many years of experience with leading agency management systems and traditional batch EDI to pioneer the approach, which has helped it become the leading provider of bridging and Internet-based interface solutions in the industry. Connective provides implementation services for its flagship products, TEAM-UP Upload, Download, and Translation Solutions, as well as Site Development and Web Services.

To learn more about Connective products and services, contact Dic Marxen at (817) 377-0815, by email at: dmarxen@connectivetech.com, or visit our website at www.connectivetech.com.

Swett & Crawford

SWETT & CRAWFORD INTRODUCES NEW LEASED
EMPLOYEE/TEMPORARY HELP WORKERS' COMP COVERAGE

Atlanta, GA - Building on the company's expertise in the placement of workers' compensation coverage and its depth of experience in Professional Services exposures, Swett & Crawford announced today it is now eligible to submit risks to its new facility for workers' compensation coverage for leased employees and temporary workers.

As the trend toward utilization of leased and temporary employees has grown - an operational business model that helps employers to better manage their labor costs - there has been an increased demand for essential workers' compensation coverage. Until now, the small number of existing markets for this coverage has had limited capacity and access. This new program increases availability and enhances Swett & Crawford's ability to satisfy demand and increase revenues.

Coverage is available on both a single and multi-state basis in all states except Ohio, North Dakota, and Washington. The protection includes employers' liability as well as free access to an on-line risk management program. USL&H is acceptable under the terms of the policy.

The minimum premium is $75,000 with guaranteed cost, large deductible and retrospective rating plans available.

Submission requirements for the new program include:

• Commercial Insurance & Workers' Compensation ACORD application
• Complete Supplemental questionnaire
• Five years' currently valued loss runs where available
• The current experience rating worksheet
• Detailed explanation of all claims over $25,000
• Brochures or promotional information on the insured
• Information pertaining to existing safety programs

About Swett & Crawford
Swett & Crawford, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, is the nation's oldest independent wholesale insurance intermediary. The company is owned by its employees and two private equity firms, HM Capital Partners and Banc of America Capital Investors.

In its national network of offices, Swett & Crawford serves independent agents and brokers through specialized Property, Casualty, Oil & Gas/Energy, Professional Services, Transportation and Underwriting Practice Groups. These groups provide access to commercial insurance products and programs, including property and casualty coverages, products liability, professional liability, commercial and public auto liability as well as a host of customized binding authorities and exclusive programs tailored to specific industries, businesses and professionals.

Complete details on the program are available from Ron Boudreaux, Vice President of Swett & Crawford, who can be reached via e-mail at ron_boudreaux@swett.com or by phone at 612.334.2393 or 612.889.0718.

Appalachian Underwriters, Inc. (AUI)

Appalachian Underwriters, Inc. (AUI) Creates new Franchise and Affinity Division

Oak Ridge, TN, - AUI has formed a new Franchise and Affinity Division, to be led by Steve Shelton. This new division will work directly with franchisors, associations, and affinity groups to create endorsed products that meet the specific needs of their members. AUI Franchise and Affinity will have access to the large base of products currently offered by AUI, but will also have the latitude to create new products for specific franchise and association groups.

Prior to joining AUI, Steve Shelton founded Franchise Insurance Specialists, a retail agency dedicated to the franchise niche, and served as President of Sports & Fitness Insurance Corporation, an MGA focused on the health and fitness industry.

Appalachian Underwriters, Inc. is a full service MGA, providing independent agents a National wholesale outlet to multiple specialized markets for Workers' Compensation, Commercial Specialty, and Personal Lines of insurance. To learn more about Appalachian Underwriters, Inc. please visit www.appund.com .

Anyone interested in learning more about our AUI Franchise and Affinity capabilities is encouraged to call; Steve Shelton at (601) 594-1532, or by email to steve.shelton@appund.com.

Beacon Hill Associates

Beacon Hill Associates Offers Workers Compensation Product

PartnerOne Environmental ®, Beacon Hill Associates' underwriting division, is now able to offer Workers Compensation coverage in conjunction with General Liability and/or Contractors Pollution Liability for qualified risks. Coverage is provided by a group of A+ Rated insurance carriers with an excellent track record of writing and servicing Workers Compensation policies.

"We are excited to be able to provide this quality product to our agents, giving them the opportunity to move their Workers Compensation coverage from assigned risk carriers into a stable and more cost competitive admitted market." said Bill Pritchard, President of Beacon Hill Associates, Inc. "PartnerOne Environmental ® continues to grow its product line by bringing valuable insurance solutions to our agents and their clients," said Pritchard, "helping us fulfill one of Beacon Hill's core goals."

PartnerOne Environmental ® is able to write Workers Compensation in the following states: AL, AR, CT, GA, IL, IN, KS, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, OK, PA, SC, TN, and VA.

For almost two decades, Beacon Hill Associates, Inc. has been a leader in providing environmental liability insurance nationwide. Although the company concentrates primarily on environmental business, it also works with agencies on other technically challenging specialty coverages. The organization is split into two divisions; the wholesale brokerage department, tasked with pursuing appropriate coverage for agents from several top insurance carriers; and the PartnerOne Environmental ® underwriting division, specializing in assessing risks and offering an array of environmental insurance products.

Additional information on Beacon Hill Associates and its products and services can be found at www.b-h-a.com or by calling 1-800-596-2156.

Norman Spencer International Inc. (NSII)

NSII Announces New E&O Insurance Program for Roofing Industry

Chicago, IL - Norman-Spencer International, Inc. and the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) have come together to provide Professional Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance coverage for roofing consultants as well as roofing contractors.

The roofing consultant can find traditional architects and engineers coverage recognizing their professional services defined broadly as roofing consultant with coverage for bodily injury and property damage starting at $2,010.

The roofing contractor can also find traditional professional liability insurance in a miscellaneous form recognizing the gap in many CGL policies which exclude coverage for these services. Communication is crucial, as many contractors do not realize the uninsured risk as the role of the roofing contractor has shifted with the industry moving to roofing systems in response to energy conservation and the green movement. More and more contractors are involved in design and in sub-contracting design, with the attendant vicarious liability. The miscellaneous form excludes bodily and injury; however, the A&E form is also available to the contractor where needed. Premium is affordable, too, starting at $1,675.

Members and nonmembers alike are welcome, as well as start-up companies.

The new P.ROOF (Professional Roofing Liability) insurance program is underwritten by an A+ A.M. Best carrier with national credibility and longevity and is available to your clients now.

For immediate access to this new market please contact NSI at 1-800-842-3653 ext. 223 or visit www.normanspencer.com for more information.

About Norman-Spencer International, Inc.: Domiciled in Illinois, headquartered in Lombard. NSII is a national recognized insurance services firm.

Swett & Crawford and CNA

Swett & Crawford and CNA Join to Bring to Market
New Equipment Breakdown Coverage National Program

Atlanta, GA, - The Swett & Crawford Underwriting Practice Group, and CNA have collaborated in the development of a new nationwide program for Equipment Breakdown Coverage open to more than 450 eligible classes.

Written on a comprehensive form, the new program covers boilers, pressure vessels, mechanical and electrical machines including air conditioning and refrigeration equipment, electrical apparatus and electronic computer or electronic data processing equipment at up to 50 locations per account. Total insured value of the equipment at each location cannot exceed $10 million in the standard coverage program; higher limits and coverage changes are available on a referral basis. Minimum premium per location ranges from $300-$950. Classes falling outside of the 450 defined classes can also be underwritten within the scope of this new Equipment Breakdown program.

Included in the program is a broad range of sub-limits for water damage, ammonia contamination and hazardous substances, expediting expenses, consequential loss, data and media, spoilage, utility interruption and other exposures. Business income loss including extra expense and ordinary payroll coverages are included with Property Damage. State and City Jurisdictional Inspections will be provided by CNA as it relates to Boiler and Pressure vessels.

Margaret Zechlin, Executive Vice President of the Swett & Crawford Underwriting Practice Group, describes the impetus for this joint effort. "This program was the direct result of a need identified by our Property Practice Group. We are very pleased with CNA's commitment to the program and collaboration with Swett & Crawford in making it competitive."

Jerry Liebers, Vice President of CNA's Equipment Breakdown Department adds, "We have always worked closely with Swett in providing Equipment Breakdown Coverage and look forward to taking this success to a new level."

About Swett & Crawford
Swett & Crawford, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, is the nation's oldest independent wholesale insurance broker. The company is owned by its employees and two private equity firms, HM Capital Partners and Banc of America Capital Investors.

In its national network of offices, Swett & Crawford serves independent agents and brokers through specialized Property, Casualty, Oil & Gas/Energy, Professional Services, Transportation and Underwriting Practice Groups. These groups provide access to commercial insurance products and programs, including property and casualty coverages, products liability, professional liability, commercial and public auto liability as well as a host of customized binding authorities and exclusive programs tailored to specific industries, businesses and professionals.

About CNA
Serving businesses and professionals since 1897, CNA is the country's seventh largest commercial insurance writer and the 13th largest property and casualty company. CNA's insurance products include standard commercial lines, specialty lines, surety, marine and other property and casualty coverages. CNA's services include risk management, information services, underwriting, risk control and claims administration. For more information, please visit CNA at www.cna.com. Please remember that only the relevant insurance policy can provide the actual terms, coverages, amounts, conditions and exclusions for an insured. All products may not be available in all states. CNA is a registered trade mark of CNA Financial Corporation.

Contact: Jennifer Pinto, Swett & Crawford; Jennifer_pinto@Swett.com, 212.618.0182

Bukaty Companies

Do you know someone in the market for individual or family health insurance coverage? Finding the best health rates in Kansas City has never been easier. Log onto www.besthealthrateskc.com today!

For more information contact: Sarah Miller Marketing Manager, Bukaty Companies, 11221 Roe Ave., Leawood, KS 66211, Phone: 913.345.0440, Toll-Free: 888.657.0440, Fax: 913.345.2608, www.bukaty.com.

Izzo Insurance Services, Inc.

NEW INSURANCE PROGRAM FOR THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY!

Izzo Insurance Services, Inc. of Elmwood Park, Illinois announces a new multi-state insurance program for the beauty industry. The program is specifically designed for cosmetic manufacturers, cosmetic distributors, beauty/barber schools, beauty salons, barber shops, nail salons and spas including (massage, tanning, piercing, electrology and slenderizing). The coverage includes professional liability, products liability, general liability, property and workers' compensation. The program is written on admitted paper and is underwritten by Star Insurance Company, a subsidiary of the Meadowbrook Insurance Group, Inc. and rated A- (Excellent).

For more information contact Byron O. Sinclair, Beauty Industry Program Manager at BSinclair@IzzoInsurance.com or call direct at (708) 395-0708 toll free at (800) 800-1704.

Insurance Specialty Group, LLC

Atlanta - Insurance Specialty Group, LLC (ISG) has partnered with several homebuilding specialist firms and contractors in founding Home Builder Specialty Group (HSG). Home Builder Specialty Group provides lending institutions and real estate investors a turn-key solution for unfinished single and multifamily residential construction projects taken over due to developer and builder foreclosures.

How this Turn-Key Process Assists
Through the Home Builder Specialty Group, lending institutions and real estate investors can access a 'one stop shop' to complete the projects and prepare them for sale. The services offered include: project valuation, expert construction, inspection and repair of partially and fully completed homes, support systems and reporting, landscape architectural enhancement, mold inspection and mitigation.

ISG brings risk management and comprehensive insurance exclusive to this program with their Asset Protection Program "APP." APP combines the nation's leading framing and foundation structural warranty with general liability coverage which is designed to protect a bank or investor's assets against construction defect claims and related litigation. APP provides the tools for the bank or investor to capture construction liability exposure in contract law versus "tort" law.

"With the turn of events in the construction industry, banks and investors are assuming new risks such as "construction defect" issues which are not typically covered by traditional insurance policies. Our goal with the Home Builder Specialty Group program is to get the banks back into the lending mode while maximizing the value of their underlying real estate asset," says Jim Leach, executive vice president of ISG.

About HSG Asset Solutions
For more information view the Home Builder Specialty Group website at www.HSGassetsolutions.com. or call or email Jim Leach at 678-742-6335 or jleach@isgins.com

About ISG
Insurance Specialty Group, LLC, headquartered in Atlanta, Ga., is a national wholesale and underwriting insurance firm with 10 offices located in New York N.Y., Hartford Conn., Atlanta Ga., Chicago, Ill., Dallas, Texas, Boca Raton, Fla., Burbank Calif., and Los Angeles, Calif. The brokerage division (PWIB) offers admitted and non-admitted markets for general property and casualty risks. The professional liability division (ELM) offers admitted and non-admitted markets for D&O, EPLI, crime and E&O risks. Additionally, ISG's underwriting division has various underwriting agreements for many classes of business including general liability; excess liability and builders risk for residential homebuilders and auto liability; and general liability and environmental liability for specialty programs such as the waste hauling industry.

For more information about Insurance Specialty Group, LLC visit www.insurancespecialtygroup.com. For professional liability information go to www.e-o.com

Victor O. Schinnerer & Company

Victor O. Schinnerer & Company, Inc. Offering New Credit for AIA and NPSE Members

Chevy Chase, MD - As part of its continued commitment to the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE), Victor O. Schinnerer & Company, Inc. announces a premium credit for AIA and NSPE members.

Qualifying architect and engineer firms with up to $5 million in billings and an acceptable loss ratio are eligible for a premium credit of up to 5 percent. Filing of this credit is underway and will be applicable once approved in each state.

Schinnerer's program is the commended insurance program for both the AIA and NSPE and has insured architects and engineers since 1956.

For more information on our program for Architects and Engineers please visit www.PlanetAEC.com or www.Schinnerer.com.

Guard Insurance Group

GUARD Offers Agents New Products for Small- to Mid-Size Businesses

GUARD Insurance Group is now accepting businessowner's policy (BOP) submissions in Pennsylvania and New Jersey as well as commercial auto in PA. Over the next several years, the company plans to introduce these new products in additional states as a natural complement to GUARD's traditional specialty - workers' compensation insurance. Although the company plans to market these policies through an existing network of contracted independent agents and brokers, producers with substantial books of smaller commercial accounts are encouraged to contact the company about possible representation.

GUARD's new and growing family of commercial products is bundled under the trademarked name - the GUARD Business Shieldsm. The group's businessowner's policy is ISO-based and has been customized to include numerous increased limits and extensions. Although GUARD has targeted several vertical markets (including restaurants, retail goods and services, professional offices, artisan contractors, and certain habitational accounts), a variety of other classifications are considered. The group is generally looking for risks with a per-location combined building and business personal property value of up to $5 million.

GUARD's commercial auto product is a traditional ISO-based policy that targets the same audience as the classes identified for businessowner's coverage. While supporting lines are preferred, monoline policies are considered. Smaller fleets, local and intermediate travel, and vehicle values of $75,000 or less are typical of the kind of accounts sought.

According to Executive Vice President of Insurance Operations Marshall Kornblatt, "GUARD actively writes workers' comp coverage in 26 jurisdictions. By the middle of 2009, our plan is to introduce the GUARD Business Shield in select states as a comprehensive insurance solution featuring multiple lines of coverage able to address all of the characteristic needs of smaller businesses - our chosen niche within the insurance marketplace."

"For the past twelve months," stated Chief Executive Officer Sy Foguel, "we have been in the process of getting a full complement of products launched in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, making sure we have the right balance among price, service, and protection to be successful. We expect this phase of our work to be done over the next couple of months. Going forward, our goal will be to systematically roll out our complete multi-policy GUARD Business Shield to several additional states throughout our operating area per year. I believe the timing is right. The current soft market seems poised to harden over the next 18 months. As capacity becomes scarce, we believe both producers and policyholders will welcome the opportunity to address all of their coverage needs through a known and familiar source. GUARD has a history of being an open, reliable, and secure market through all kinds of industry cycles."

Rated A- "Excellent" by A.M. Best Company (an internationally recognized source of independent performance information), GUARD Insurance Group has four insurance company subsidiaries - AmGUARD, EastGUARD, NorGUARD, and WestGUARD - and is licensed in 45 jurisdictions. The organization has written workers' compensation premiums of approximately $200 million dollars over each of the past three years with additional growth planned in 2009. GUARD's resources are augmented by those of a strong parent organization. In May of 2007, the company was acquired by Clal Insurance Enterprises Holdings, Ltd., an international operation with direct written premiums of $2 billion.

Producers interested in contacting GUARD about possible appointments can call 1-800-673-2465, extension 4567, or can visit www.guard.com.

Victor O. Schinnerer & Company

Schinnerer Announces Revamped Technology E&O Program

Chevy Chase, MD - Victor O. Schinnerer & Company, Inc. is pleased to announce a new TechVantage policy, launched on January 1, 2009. The new policy is with Scottsdale Insurance Company, an A+ rated carrier and will be offered on both an admitted and non-admitted basis in all states.

The filings for admitted paper are expected to begin in the first quarter of 2009. Independent agents and brokers who have expressed an interest in the program will be notified as states approve the admitted policy. Current approval status can also be found at www.PlanetTechVantage.com.

Target classes of business for TechVantage are:

• Custom programmers
• Web designers
• IT consultants
• Internet service providers
• Data processors
• Network communication providers
• System designers
• Value added sellers
• Companies that host websites

Schinnerer can write firms with up to $50 million in revenues as well as start-up firms with experienced principals.

The base policy includes coverage for personal injury, failure to prevent unauthorized access to a customer's system, punitive damages, annual aggregate deductibles, worldwide coverage for suits brought in the U.S., and much more.

"This is a policy designed specifically for technology companies," said John Ajello, program manager for TechVantage, "and this program gives our brokers the flexibility they need to compete in today's insurance market. In addition to the base form, we can consider options like IP infringement coverage, defense in addition to the limits, coverage for privacy breaches, and worldwide coverage. We are thrilled to be working with Scottsdale Insurance Company and look forward to building a world-class E&O program with them."

Victor O. Schinnerer & Company, Inc. is one of the largest and most experienced underwriting managers of professional liability and specialty insurance programs in the world. Schinnerer now serves more than 55,000 policyholders in various specialty industries through independent agents and brokers. Learn more about Schinnerer at: www.Schinnerer.com.

Victor O. Schinnerer & Co., Inc., Two Wisconsin Circle, Chevy Chase, MD 20815-7022, Phone: 301-961-9800, Fax: 301-951-5444, Website: www.Schinnerer.com, Email: vos.info@Schinnerer.com.

For more information on TechVantage visit www.PlanetTechVantage.com or www.Schinnerer.com.

Program Contact: John Ajello, Senior Vice President (301) 951-9755, John.L.Ajello@Schinnerer.com; Marketing Contact: Mary Jefferson, Corp. Marketing (301) 951-9798, Mary.L.Jefferson@Schinnerer.com

Victor O. Schinnerer & Company

Schinnerer Announces Its Forest Products Program

Chevy Chase, MD - Victor O. Schinnerer & Company, Inc. is pleased to announce its newly acquired Forest Products program.

The program offers insurance coverage for an array of forest management professionals. They include timberland owners, loggers, log and chip haulers, and sawmills. Schinnerer, along with its A rated carrier, offers general liability loggers broadform property damage, automobile, crime, inland marine, property, and umbrella coverage to these clients.

Started in 1977, the program has been endorsed by a leading logging association for 30 years. The program is based out of Schinnerer's Sacramento, California office, also newly acquired.

The Forest Products program is currently available in AK, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MT, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI and WY, with plans to expand. Coverage is available on an admitted basis.

For more information visit http://www.Schinnerer.com or call the appropriate contact: Program Contact: Dawn Eichelkraut, Vice President (916) 286-5311, Dawn.Eichelkraut@Schinnerer.com. Marketing Contact: Mary Jefferson, Corporate Marketing (301) 951-9798, Mary.L.Jefferson@Schinnerer.com

Victor O. Schinnerer & Company, Inc. is one of the largest and most experienced underwriting managers of professional liability and specialty insurance programs in the world. Schinnerer now serves more than 55,000 policyholders in various specialty industries through independent agents and brokers. Learn more about Schinnerer at: www.Schinnerer.com.

Brownyard Programs, Ltd.

Brownyard Programs, Ltd. Appointed National Administrator for Liberty Mutual's Security Guard Workers Compensation Program

EAST ISLIP, NY September 5, 2008 - Brownyard Programs, Ltd. today announced that it has been appointed the National Program Administrator for Liberty Mutual's Workers Compensation Program for Security Guard Companies effective August 1, 2008.

"We're extremely excited about our new relationship with Liberty Mutual as National Program Administrator for the Private Security Industry. Our BestGuard Workers Compensation Program is designed for high-quality, low-risk security guard companies, private investigative agencies and electronic security companies anywhere in the US. Because we specialize in this market segment, we are able to evaluate risks on an individual case-by-case basis. That means we can make sure the best security companies are charged the lower premiums they deserve," says Bruce Brownyard, President of Brownyard Programs, Ltd.

About Brownyard Programs
Brownyard Program, Ltd. has been providing general professional liability, excess umbrella liability and workers compensation insurance to the private security industry since 1993. Currently, Brownyard Programs, Ltd. insures nearly 1000 security agencies coast to coast including 15 of the top 40 security guard companies in the US. Liberty Mutual ranks 94th on the Fortune 500 list of largest corporations in the U.S. based on 2007 revenue.

For more information about Brownyard Programs, Ltd. go to www.BrownyardPrograms.com.

CONTACT: Helen Henner, CPCU, EVP, 631.581.9300, ext. 111 or Helen@BrownyardPrograms.com

ASI Lloyds Offers Louisiana Investors and Seasonal Residents Property Insurance Coverage

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - ASI Lloyds (ASI), an admitted Louisiana insurer, launched an Investor, Rental, and Seasonal Dwelling policy for Louisiana properties in addition to its current Homeowners offering. ASI, who opened for business in Louisiana on April 30, 2008, now has two personal property products sold through its network of independent insurance agents.

ASI will fill a current void by offering coverage to homeowners, investors, seasonal residents, rental properties and even owners of homes under construction.

"This product expansion," said John Auer, ASI Lloyd's President and CEO, "reaffirms our commitment to Louisiana for the long term. Our objective is to offer residents and investors an appealing alternative to Louisiana Citizens and other carriers in the state." Residents seeking coverage should consult their local independent agent.

ASI is a $500M multi-state carrier focusing on homeowners and other property insurance with coverage offerings in Florida, Texas, Louisiana, Colorado, and Arizona. The company currently holds licenses in 11 other states and has plans to expand nationally in the future.

In December 2007, ASI was upgraded to A- (Excellent) by A.M. Best. The rating affirms ASI's strength and ability to remain financially sound even after the devastating hurricane seasons of 2004 and 2005.

ASI Lloyds Inc. is a subsidiary of American Strategic Insurance Corp. domiciled in Florida. The ASI group of companies specializes in homeowners insurance and has more than 346,000 policyholders in Florida, Texas, Louisiana, Arizona, and Colorado. The company also offers Flood coverage as a Write Your Own (WYO) Flood Service Provider. The A- (Excellent) rating applies to American Strategic Insurance Corp, ASI Assurance Corp, ASI Preferred, and ASI Lloyds.

CONTACT: Deepak Menon, ASI Lloyds Inc., +1-727-821-8765, ext. 853, Web site: www.americanstrategic.com

The Combined Group

Combined Group Offers Agent Direct Express™ Service for Travelers Select Agents

The Combined Group now offers a fully automated service for Travelers Select commercial insurance lines. Combined's Agent Direct Express™ and Quantum's Real Time Express™ service offerings now enable agents to quote rates, place binding coverage in force and receive direct commissions, all in a single transaction.

CARROLLTON, Tex. - The Combined Group, a national leader in multi-carrier online insurance services, now offers Travelers agents the full benefits of its acclaimed Agent Direct Express™ service to quote and bind coverage for Travelers Select business and receive all compensation with minimum paperwork.

Using this first-ever offering, retail agents directly appointed by Travelers can dramatically reduce the normal insurance issuance cycle and get coverage in force for small-to-medium-size business clients immediately. By inputting data only once, agents receive quotes from multiple leading insurance carriers for comparison purposes. Agents who choose Travelers can get immediate coverage as part of the process.

Agent owners and the CSR staff benefit from the streamlined process. The reduced cycle time means agents can see more clients and write more business while eliminating paperwork. Agents simply complete an easy to navigate online "interview" and receive multi-carrier quotes within minutes. With the Direct Express offering agents receive full commissions directly from Travelers.

Agent Direct Express is the Single-Entry-Multiple-Carrier-Interface (SEMCI) service the Combined Group provides its appointed agents. Real Time Express is a Software as a Service (SaaS) product offering of Quantum Integrated Systems, Inc., an insurance software development company that is part of the Combined Group. Quantum provides Real Time Express to independent insurance agencies nationwide.

Combined Group CEO Blake Stock said Agent Direct Express and Real Time Express were developed to provide retail insurance agents a powerful tool to help grow their small account commercial business without adding more staff.

"Agents throughout the United States who specialize in small account commercial business know Combined well," Stock said. "Now, agents already working with Travelers, but who may not have worked with us yet have every reason to do so."

To get full benefit of the Direct service, agents must be an appointed agent of Travelers and have a licensing agreement with Combined or Quantum. Stock said first-time agents can apply online at Combined's Website, www.combinedgroup.com or www.realtimeexpress.com.

NIP Programs

NIP Programs Announces New Insurance Program: SignagePro

NIP Programs is pleased to announce the development and launch of SignagePro®, a new specialty insurance program targeting the Sign, Display Advertising and Awning industry nationwide. SignagePro® is a comprehensive insurance program available for the Sign and Display Advertising industry.

For more information see SignagePro Program Guidelines here or download the SignagePro Application. "We're excited to have the opportunity to focus on serving the sign and display advertising industry," said Dave Springer, President of NIP Programs.

SIGNAGEPRO PROGRAM GUIDELINES

Class Eligibility:
Sign Manufacturers, Sign installation, Outdoor Advertising, Sign Shops and Awning Shops. (75% of payroll must be within classes).

Coverage Options:

• General Liability (limits up to $1M per occurrence/$2M aggregate)
• Product Liability (limits up to $1M per occurrence/$2M aggregate)
• Auto Liability (limits up to $1M per occurrence)
• Property / Inland Marine (limits up to $500K)
• Workers' Compensation (Statutory Limits)
• Umbrella Liability (limits up to $10M)- Garage Keepers Liability
• Limited Pollution Liability Extension Endorsement

Minimum Premiums:
$1,000 GL

3-Year Loss Runs:
Incurred 3-year loss ratios less than 50%

Highlights:
Nationwide, AM Best A+ Rated Carrier (Company Size XV), Competitive Rates, Attractive Commissions, Superior Customer Service

For a Quote, send submissions via fax SignagePro at (866)-536-1258 or visit our website www.nipgroup.com to learn more about our other programs.

PGI Commercial

PGI COMMERCIAL TO PROVIDE COVERAGE FOR SELF STORAGE FACILITIES

MORRISTOWN, NJ, - PGI Commercial today announced the addition of a comprehensive program for Self-Storage Facilities. Coverage is provided by member companies of Argonaut Insurance Group (Rated A, Excellent, IX by AM Best)

The BOP policy can include property, general liability and crime. Customer goods legal liability and sale and disposal legal liability as well as three levels of product specific enhancements are also available. The product is available in all states except Hawaii and Alaska.

Richard Trezza, of PGI Commercial, stated "We are pleased to add this program to our growing list of products and very excited to have forged a new relationship with Argonaut Insurance Group."

Insurance producers who would like more information about this product should contact PGI Commercial at 800-834-2109.

About PGI Commercial
PGIC is a part of the Bermuda based insurance distributor Primary Group Limited and manages U.S. property and casualty programs on a nationwide basis. www.pgicommercial.com

Combined Group

Combined Group offers Comprehensive Employer's Indemnity program backed by North American Capacity Insurance Company, a member of the Swiss Re group

Dallas, TX - Combined Group announced today the availability of their Comprehensive Employers Indemnity (CEI) program with Swiss Re's North American Capacity Insurance Company. The CEI program is designed for employers making the decision to nonsubscriber their Texas-based occupational injury exposures. Combined Group has written over $2.1 billion in workers compensation equivalent nonsubscription premiums and adjusted over 44,000 since 1989.

The Combined Group's CEI program is underwritten by North American Capacity Insurance Company (a member of the Swiss Re group), with an A.M. Best rating of A+ XV. The CEI facility provides employers with medical and liability limits up to $25MM and best-in-market indemnity periods up to 260 weeks.

"We are very pleased to partner with Combined's organization", said Bob Solitro, Managing Director and Head of North American Capacity Insurance Company. "They bring seasoned nonsubscription experience to the marketplace, both underwriting and claims services, on a time-tested policy form."

Combined Group's CEI product makes available employee sub-limit options and provides broad legal indemnity to nonsubscribing companies.

"The CEI offering is addressing the needs of larger employers that opt out of the worker's compensation market," said Blake Stock, CEO of the Combined Group. "The Combined Group's historical nonsubscription underwriting and claims experience, backed by North American Capacity's strong financial standing, provides a superior product to meet employer's needs."

About Combined Group
Combined Group offers a comprehensive menu of commercial insurance products available through nearly two dozen well-respected and reliable carriers. The company is a leading provider of nonsubscription services, including specialized coverage options, claims administration, risk management and loss prevention.

Swiss Reinsurance Company Ltd
Swiss Re is a leading and highly diversified global reinsurer. The company operates through offices in more than 25 countries. Founded in Zurich, Switzerland, in 1863, Swiss Re offers financial services products that enable risk-taking essential to enterprise and progress. The company's traditional reinsurance products and related services for property and casualty, as well as the life and health business are complemented by insurance-based corporate finance solutions and supplementary services for comprehensive risk management. Swiss Re is rated "AA-" by Standard & Poor's, "Aa2" by Moody's and "A+" by A.M. Best.

Contact: Ken Dahl, (469) 892-9813, www.combinedgroup.com

Irwin Siegel Agency, Inc.

Irwin Siegel Agency, Inc. Offers New Program for Para-Transit and Rural Transportation Providers

Rock Hill, NY - Irwin Siegel Agency, Inc. (ISA), a leading specialty underwriter of insurance package programs for the Social Services field, recently announced the addition of a new program focused on Para-Transit and Rural Transportation. Written through member companies of AIG, an A+ rated carrier and administered by ISA, this program proves to be an exciting opportunity for independent agents and brokers with clients in the Transportation field.

ISA Transportation Program Highlights Include:

• Comprehensive Package includes General Liability, Auto, and Umbrella
• Abuse coverage available
• Garage Liability available
• For-Profit and Not-For-Profit agencies are eligible
• Limited capacity for emergency services vehicles in conjunction with Para-Transit services
• Employees as insureds endorsement
• Hired Car physical damage up to $50,000
• Extensive Fleet and Driver Risk Management services available
• No Driver exclusions - (drivers must meet underwriting guidelines)
• Available in all states except: AL, MS, WV, LA

Submission requirements include: Acord applications, Agency Brochure, currently valued five year loss runs, supplemental applications, a copy of safety & driver manuals and a driver's list.

Irwin Siegel Agency, Inc. offers innovative and competitive insurance solutions for provider agencies within the social service, developmental disabilities, addiction treatment, transportation and mental healthcare fields. ISA programs are available exclusively through independent agents and brokers.

For more information please visit www.siegelagency.com. Contact: Sara Ruggiero, Director of Corporate Communications, Irwin Siegel Agency, Inc., (800) 622-8272

NAS Insurance

Attn: Wholesale Brokers
NEW, EXPANDED HR RISK MANAGEMENT SERVICES BENEFIT EPLI

NAS is pleased to announce that HReSource™ will be providing new and expanded HR risk management support and services with the purchase or renewal of EPL insurance! HReSource™ offers the Insured direct access to:

• HR Support Center with unlimited telephone support by qualified HR consultants
• Audio Seminars featuring Employment Law attorneys and HR experts
• Training Modules, Programs, Bulletins and Podcasts for supervisors and line employees
• Internet-based HR Management System Features offer access to on-line forms, policies and procedures, including 102 sample state-specific employee handbooks and step-by-step procedures for handling common HR management issues regarding hiring and termination, discipline, compliance, and more.

A demo of HReSource™ is available now! For your free demonstration of the extensive services and support available to NAS EPLI insureds, please contact an NAS underwriter:

• Melvin Osswald, Vice President, at (818) 808-4467 or mosswald@nasinsurance.com.
• Genevieve Alexander, Underwriter, at (818) 808-4463 or galexander@nasinsurance.com.
• Rolanda Bell, Underwriter, at (818) 808-4462 or rbell@nasinsurance.com.

For more information on all of NAS' products, please visit our website at www.nasinsurance.com.

Victor O. Schinnerer Co., Inc.

Schinnerer Announces Its Academic Security Risk Management Program

Chevy Chase, MD - Victor O. Schinnerer & Company, Inc. is pleased to announce its new Academic Security Risk Management program. The program was designed to meet the specific needs of academic institutions of all sizes ranging from small private grade schools to large public universities.

The program protects directors, officers, trustees, faculty and staff, students, and campus visitors. A wide scope of events are covered such as acts of violence against insureds, threats to harm individuals or divulge information, damage to property, disappearance of students and child abduction.

Expenses including students' and employees' medical charges, increased security, lost wages, temporary facilities, and communication and public relations services are covered under this program.

A prevention fund is available to apply towards risk management resources tailored to academic institutions. These risk resources include periodic travel seminars, simulation exercises for crisis team members, and country risk analysis for study abroad programs.

The Academic Security Risk Management program is available on an admitted basis in all states and the District of Columbia with exception for Washington and South Dakota where it is offered on a non-admitted basis.

Victor O. Schinnerer & Company, Inc. is one of the largest and most experienced underwriting managers of professional liability and specialty insurance programs in the world. Schinnerer now serves more than 40,000 insureds in the real estate and construction industry programs through independent agents and brokers. Learn more about Schinnerer at: www.Schinnerer.com.

Contact: Mary Jefferson, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Victor O. Schinnerer & Co., Inc., Two Wisconsin Circle, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, Phone: (301) 951-9798, Fax: (301) 951-5444, www.Schinnerer.com