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


Markel Programs

Markel Programs Partners With Whorton Insurance Services, Inc. to Offer New Mobile Food Vendor Program

Richmond, VA - Markel Programs announced today that it has partnered with Whorton Insurance Services, Inc., a managing general agency, to offer immediate availability of a multi-line admitted program for independent mobile food vendors through Markel's network of appointed retail agents. Coverages available include general liability, auto, umbrella, crime, inland marine, and excess limits up to $5 million.

Frank Noyes, Executive Underwriter at Markel Programs, stated, "We are excited to be getting in on the ground floor of this emerging food industry niche with Ron Ortega and the experienced, professional staff of Whorton Insurance Services. The growth potential for Markel, Whorton, and our producers is tremendous, and unquestionably, Markel is the right partner for fulfilling the insurance needs of this market." "I am truly excited about working with Markel, a firm that has an entrepreneurial spirit with the ability to perceive opportunities that others do not see. This was certainly the case when we proposed our ideas that ultimately resulted in creating a new insurance program for an evolving industry," commented Ron Ortega, Program Manager for Whorton.

Jim Whorton, President of Whorton Insurance Services, added, "For an insurance program to be successful, it needs to include several key elements. None is more important than having the right carrier partner. "With Markel, we found the perfect partner. We not only shared values, principles, and underwriting philosophy; but from the start, we were on the same wavelength with a key interest in finding and understanding new opportunities that in the future will foster rewarding business ventures."

Target classes for the program include small-to-medium size mobile food vendors that are individually owned or operated, such as licensed hot food and cold lunch trucks, gourmet coffee vendors, and catering trucks. The program is currently available in California, Texas, Ohio, Oregon, Colorado, Florida, and Washington, with expansion into other states planned soon.

ABOUT MARKEL PROGRAMS
A division of Markel Corporation, Markel Programs develops partnerships with managing general agents to offer single-source, admitted and non-admitted programs for a specific class or line of business. Markel Corporation markets and underwrites specialty insurance products and programs to a variety of niche markets. In each of these markets, the Company seeks to provide quality products and excellent customer service so that it can be a market leader. The financial goals of the Company are to earn consistent underwriting profits and superior investment returns to build shareholder value. To learn more about Markel Programs, visit markelprograms.com.

ABOUT WHORTON INSURANCE SERVICES, INC.
Whorton Insurance Services, Inc. is a Texas-based company with multiple offices in Texas and California. The agency was established in 1972 on the founding principles of time-honored values including integrity, respect, trust, teamwork, excellence, and service to others. Jim Whorton is the founder of Whorton Insurance Services as well as a co-founder of Combined Agents of America, a $450 million affiliation of 45 member agencies representing over 100 best-rated insurance companies with clients throughout the United States. To learn more about Whorton Insurance Services, visit www.whortonins.com.

For more information contact: Frank Noyes, Executive Underwriter, Markel Programs, 800-431-1270, fnoyes@markelcorp.com; Ron Ortega, Program Manager, Whorton Insurance Services, Inc., rono@whortonins.com, 512-372-2243


Mainstay Insurance Group

MAINSTAY OPENS THE DOOR TO THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY WITH ITS INNOVATIVE "GREEN" INSURANCE PRODUCT LINE AND SERVICES

Bellevue, WA, March 30, 2011- Mainstay Insurance Group has expanded its Program Division with the creation of insurance products and services specifically catered to the Hospitality industry. This new market appetite includes limited service, full service, upscale and luxury hotels and resorts in all 50 states, and will offer an innovative program to support the industry in its commitment to going green.

"The Hospitality industry is a natural fit for us," said Mainstay President and CEO Dusty Rowland, "given our long history in building and managing programs for hotels, and the current strength and solid footprint of our existing real estate insurance programs. Hotels and resorts, while certainly unique in terms of exposure, ultimately fall within the real estate industry and cater well to our long term strategy and value proposition."

Mainstay's Hospitality Program will offer industry-focused insurance for qualifying accounts generating a minimum of $10,000 in written premium. Available lines of coverage include: General Liability, Property, Liquor Liability, and Umbrella Liability with limit options from $5M to $100M. Supporting carriers are A rated offering both admitted and non-admitted options.

What's more, the addition of Hospitality to Mainstay's Program Division is in synch with its dedication to the Green Movement and support of The Association of Green Property Owners and Managers (AGPOM). Mainstay is leveraging their exclusive insurance representation of AGPOM to drive hospitality growth in their real estate program. The program will not only offer a competitive insurance proposal, but also provide tools and services that help clients leverage the financial benefits of the Green Movement.

"When you look at what has taken place within the Green Movement in the past ten years or so with entrepreneuring hoteliers implementing conservation programs, as well as the boom of green, ecofriendly hotels, you see that this industry is at the forefront among the real estate segments in making significant strides in terms of capital investments and behavioral changes within their buildings and sites," said Mr. Rowland. "Yet there are still many hotels and resorts looking for ways to get involved and go green. We see our program as an opportunity to offer them the same type of multi-faceted value the AGPOM platform offers property owners."

To learn more about Mainstay's Hospitality Program, contact Eric Arthur, Executive Vice President and head of product development, at 425-233-6463.

About Mainstay
Mainstay Insurance Group is a program administrator and specialty wholesaler servicing the insurance and risk management needs of select industries and providing niche and association-based products. Its programs are available nationally and are distributed 100% through retailers.

About AGPOM
The Association of Green Property Owners and Managers (AGPOM) is a 501(c)(6) non-profit organization that helps property owners and managers realize the value of environmental-friendly pursuits while offering incentives that stimulate participation. Its approach, which stems from a connection between "Going Green" and risk control, drives meaningful results using a straightforward strategy to "Greening" a business. Through AGPOM, members are able to leverage many "Green" benefits without making large investments in technology or manpower.


Victor O Schinnerer and Company, Inc.

Schinnerer Launches New Contractor Policy Form

Chevy Chase, MD - March 2, 2011 - As construction contractors expand the scope of their professional services to maintain and grow their business in a challenging economy, Schinnerer today announced the launch of a new contractor professional liability and pollution liability policy form to meet their changing needs. Available to general, design-build and many types of specialty contractors, the new policy form offers expanded coverage and adds new coverage features.

"The construction industry has evolved greatly in the last few years," said Emerson Browne, Vice President of Schinnerer's Contractor program. "We updated and enhanced our policy forms to give our contractor clients what they need and want in terms of services covered and expanded coverage."

The new and expanded coverages include:

  • Rectification coverage
  • Defendant's reimbursement coverage up to $10,000 per claim
  • Expanded definition of professional services
  • Ownership interest of 49%
  • Proactive coverage for mold
  • Automatic coverage for LEED consultants
  • No exclusion for asbestos, respirable dust or silica
  • Coverage for punitive damages resulting from pollution liability
  • Coverage for transportation pollution liability and non-owned site disposal

The new policy form is also available to current insureds by means of a mid-term enhanced endorsement. Schinnerer continues to offer the Contractor program with program insurer, CNA.

Schinnerer, which has underwritten contractor risks since 1991, offers professional liability and pollution liability coverage to a wide range of construction contractors. The Contractor program is available nationwide through independent insurance agents and brokers.

About Schinnerer
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 46,000 insureds in various specialty industries through independent agents and brokers. Learn more at www.Schinnerer.com.

Media contact: Starr Crusenberry, Starr.N.Crusenberry@Schinnerer.com, 301-951-6904


Victor O Schinnerer and Company, Inc.

Schinnerer Launches New Railroad Protective Program

Chevy Chase, MD - To address the complex risks faced by businesses that own, manage or work on property that has a railroad line running across or near it, Schinnerer announced today the launch of its Railroad Protective program.

Most standard general liability policies exclude liability coverage for construction operations within 50 feet of a railroad. "Schinnerer has created a program to address these businesses' specific needs and give clients a coverage that fills in this gap," said Gordon Field, Senior Vice President of the Railroad Protective program at Schinnerer. "Our long-standing professional liability and property and casualty insurance programs for the design and construction industry make offering the Railroad Protective coverage a natural fit."

Schinnerer's Railroad Protective program offers monoline coverage designed specifically for railroad related exposures, including project specific coverage for individual projects or contracts and coverage for private grade crossings on private property. Terrorism coverage is automatically included.

Railroad Protective is admitted, available in all states, except New York, and is offered through program insurer, Chartis.

About Schinnerer
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 46,000 insureds in various specialty industries through independent agents and brokers. Learn more at www.Schinnerer.com.

Contact: Alli Amrhein, 301-961-9746, Alli.Amrhein@Schinnerer.com


NIP Program

NIP Programs Launches MedEdge for Physician Assistants - Medical Professional Liability Insurance

MedEdge Protects, Defends and Rewards Physician Assistants with Personal, Customizable and Affordable Professional Liability coverage -including AD&D and Occupational Incident Benefits

Woodbridge, N.J., March 1, 2011 - NIP Programs, a division of NIP Group, Inc. (www.NIPGroup.com), a leader in the design and management of specialty insurance programs, has introduced MedEdge for Physician Assistants, a new personal, customizable and affordable professional liability coverage that protects, defends and rewards Physician Assistants.

Backed by an A.M. Best "A-rated" insurance carrier, MedEdge features professional liability coverage that goes beyond traditional coverages currently offered, with additional AD&D and Occupational Incident Hepatitis C and HIV Benefits included in most states.

"MedEdge is a budget-friendly entry into personal insurance coverage for Physician Assistants, with coverage options that adjust as a Physician Assistant's career grows," said NIP Programs President, David Springer. "MedEdge is passionate about protecting healthcare practitioners and goes beyond insurance with a Three-In-One Protection Plan for Physician Assistants that protects their interests, defends their reputation and livelihood, and rewards them with discounts for a good track record."

MedEdge protects Physician Assistants, acting as a personal advocate and fighting to protect their interests and careers with:

  • Their own personal coverage and dedicated policy limits
  • Tools to lower risk, including a robust library of patient safety and risk · management materials, guides and tools
  • A risk management team that is available to help when a situation arises
  • Up-to-date information on new regulations, emerging trends and information to lower premiums over time

A cornerstone of coverage is how MedEdge defends Physician Assistants, vigorously protecting their professional reputations and livelihoods. Given the professional and personal challenges of malpractice claims, MedEdge claims experts are available to marshal all their resources, from initial notice to final resolution.

MedEdge also rewards Physician Assistants with discounts for their safe track records and outstanding patient care. Additionally, MedEdge offers discounts for part-time Physician Assistants, students and recent graduates, and works diligently to secure and maintain the best insurance rates and coverages.

MedEdge for Physician Assistants is currently available in 36 states with more approved each day. For more information on MedEdge or to download forms, please visit the NIP Programs website: www.nipgroup.com/programs/mededge/ or by calling 877-449-EDGE (or 877-449-3343).

About NIP Programs
NIP Programs, a division of NIP Group, Inc. (www.nipgroup.com), is a leading U.S. specialty insurance program manager operating in all states. NIP Group, Inc. is a specialized business insurance and risk management intermediary, ranked among the largest 100 in the United States and providing a wide range of brokerage, underwriting and risk management services to select market segments.


Ryan Specialty Group LLC

Ryan Specialty Group, LLC Introduces CivicRisk Excess casualty coverage for self-insured public entities

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - Ryan Specialty Group, LLC (RSG) today announced the launch of CivicRisk (CRU), a Managing General Underwriter specializing in excess casualty coverage for public entities which includes, but is not limited to, cities, counties, school districts, transit districts, public utilities, and special districts whether written individually or in pools.

CRU offers public entities a broad range of occurrence and wrongful acts coverage underwritten on a single policy form that addresses general liability, law enforcement, public officials, employment practices liability, employee benefits and automobile exposures. Coverage is also available on a follow form basis over qualified underlying primary carrier programs. The program is available on a non-admitted basis in all states and is underwritten by Scottsdale Insurance Company, which, through an affiliated company, has initiated filings for admitted status. Scottsdale Insurance Company is an A.M. Best rated A+ XV insurer, experienced in handling public entity claims. Coverage is also available on a follow form excess liability over traditional primary coverage in areas with tort caps and immunities where traditional primary programs predominate.

Thomas Dultz, President, CEO and Chief Underwriting Officer, CivicRisk, says of the opportunity, "Public entities want more alternatives in their ability to retain risk. Our products are designed to provide public entities with excess casualty risk-transfer options that will help them avoid unexpected gaps in coverage as they manage their risk. We have assembled a team of experienced underwriters in the public entity and public transit underwriting arena."

Patrick G. Ryan, Chairman and CEO, RSG, adds, "CivicRisk's ability to present creative excess casualty risk-transfer options to public entities and their risk managers - through the agents and brokers who represent them - offers a unique distribution channel for the coverage that is needed in today's marketplace."

About CivicRisk Underwriters (CRU)
CivicRisk Underwriters (CRU) is a part of Ryan Specialty Group, LLC (RSG). As a managing general agency, CRU focuses on excess casualty products for public entities that are self-insured. CRU has offices in Los Angeles, California, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. www.ryansg.com

About Ryan Specialty Group, LLC
Ryan Specialty Group, LLC is a global company specializing in wholesale brokerage, MGU/MGA underwriting facilities and other specialty services to agents, brokers and carriers. www.ryansg.com

For more information about CRU, contact Thomas Dultz, (818) 660-1671, tdultz@civicrisk.com. For more information on this release, contact Chelsey Krull, (312) 784-6043, ckrull@ryansg.com.


Carson Marketing LLC

Zane Carson launches Carson Marketing, LLC. Carson Marketing, LLC provides marketing services and support for small to mid-sized businesses.

Houston, Texas - Zane Carson today announced the launch of Carson Marketing, LLC. Carson Marketing is a full service marketing firm specializing in helping businesses grow utilizing a variety of marketing mediums.

If the biggest lesson learned in an economic downturn is to do more with less, America's small to mid sized business owners have accomplished that by across-the-board cutbacks including staff. The eliminated position or department does not eliminate the need for these services. A majority of these businesses have turned to outsourcing to create a seamless transition. For the last ten years, outsourcing has incorporated itself in every business model and industry. Carson Marketing, LLC is the perfect marketing outsource solution. The company can develop a total marketing strategy or create a one shot promotion. It also offers website development, advertising, press releases, co-op TV commercials, public relation, product sampling and product launch to name a few. "Marketing is a vital function for every business, but often overlooked due to the expense. As most companies find out, it is more expensive not to market" states Zane Carson, President, Carson Marketing, LLC.

About Carson Marketing, LLC. Zane Carson, President, successfully lead the marketing efforts for both start up insurance operations and established insurance businesses for the past 15 years.

For additional information contact: Carson Marketing, LLC Zane Carson, President, 713-870-1990, zcarson@carsonmarketing.com, www.carsonmarketing.com


R.T. Specialty, LLC

RT Specialty Appointed Exclusive Administrator for
General Star's NutraAdvantage ™ Program

Program Designed for Natural Products/Dietary Supplement Industry

Chicago, Illinois - R-T Specialty, LLC (RT Specialty) today announced it has been appointed as the exclusive administrator for General Star's NutraAdvantage ™ program.

NutraAdvantage offers specialty liability coverage for natural and organic supplements manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, multi-level marketers, importers and exporters of both raw and finished products.

The program is available on a non-admitted basis in all states and is underwritten by General Star Indemnity Company or General Star National Insurance Company. Both companies are currently rated A++ (Superior) by A.M.Best Company and to date carry an AA+ Insurance Financial Strength Rating from Standard & Poor's.

Tim Turner, President and CEO of RT Specialty says of the exclusive agreement, "We are extremely excited about our appointment as the exclusive administrator for this unique program. NutraAdvantage™ was originally launched by General Star in 2007. Recently, a number of critical enhancements have been added to the product. These enhancements provide the best available liability coverage, at the most affordable price for clients in the natural products and dietary supplement industry business."

Patricia Roberts, President and CEO of General Star Indemnity Insurance Company, adds, "Moving to an exclusive distribution and enhancing our program features is the latest evolution of a very successful General Star program. RT Specialty brings a seasoned team of nutraceutical specialists to the table, with a track record of expertise in this class and a keen sense for the needs of the herbal, botanical and vitamin industry. This combination of dedicated intermediary and extended benefits will add the right momentum to our program."

The NutraAdvantage™ program offers commercial general liability insurance as well as products liability, premises liability, vendors' legal liability, employee benefits liability and legal defense costs. The NutraAdvantage ™ Plus Endorsement provides protection for a variety of additional insureds, including primary and non-contributory coverage for vendors. It also offers products recall expense, professional and errors and omissions (E&O) coverage and waiver of subrogation.

The program has been endorsed by some of the most prominent trade associations in the life sciences arena, including American Botanical Council (ABC), American Herbal Products (AHPA), United Natural Products Alliance (UNPA) and Natural Products Association (NPA).

For more information about NutraAdvantage™, contact RT Specialty's exclusive program administrator Denise Pepin, dpepin@rtspecialty.com or 312-651-6000.

About R-T Specialty, LLC
R-T Specialty, LLC is a subsidiary of Ryan Specialty Group, LLC specializing in wholesale brokerage, MGU/MGA underwriting facilities and other services to agents, brokers and carriers. In California: R-T Specialty Insurance Services, LLC License #OG97516

About General Star National Indemnity
General Star is the premier specialty and surplus lines provider, conducting business exclusively through a select group of wholesale brokers. As a wholly owned subsidiary of General Reinsurance Corporation, a Berkshire Hathaway company, General Star offers unsurpassed financial stability and capacity.


Philadelphia Insurance Companies

Bala Cynwyd, PA - Philadelphia Insurance Companies (PHLY) is pleased to announce it will begin offering Chiropractor's Malpractice Insurance in Indiana, Maine, Maryland, Mississippi, Ohio, Oregon, Texas and Wisconsin. PHLY's Chiropractor Malpractice Program is already available in Alabama, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, South Dakota and Utah.

"Philadelphia Insurance Companies provides Healthcare Professional Liability within its core non-profit commercial package offerings," remarked Howard E. Goldstein, Assistant Vice President of Management and Professional Liability Products. "Expanding into the practitioner market was a natural transition and represents a considerable growth opportunity due to the significance of the chiropractic field. We will bring the same excellence to underwriting, claims handling and service that has characterized our operations in all of our customer niches. Our ability to offer one-stop shopping for Business Owners Coverage (BOP), Crime, EPLI and other important coverages will also provide flexible and diverse coverages to our customers," added Goldstein.

For more information contact: Marisa Thornton, Marketing Manager, One Bala Plaza, Suite 100, Bala Cynwyd, Pa 19004, 610.538.2260, Email: mthornton@phlyins.com


Markel Corporation

Markel Corporation Launches Markel Management Liability

Richmond, VA - Markel Corporation announced today immediate availability of Markel Management Liability, an integrated suite of coverages including Directors' & Officers' Liability, Employment Practices Liability, and Fiduciary Liability. The coverages are available as a package policy or as stand-alone coverages.

Markel Management Liability protects insureds against a wide range of exposures arising from allegations of mismanagement from shareholders, employees, and regulatory bodies.

This admitted, claims-made package currently targets small-to-middle market, private organizations with up to $750 million in revenue. Coverage availability will expand to include nonprofit organizations and publicly traded companies soon. Markel entertains all industry classes for management liability coverage, except financial institutions. Admitted, excess coverage forms are also available.

Led by Salvatore Pollaro, Managing Director of Markel Management Liability, Markel has two dedicated management liability underwriting teams that are located in Deerfield, IL (Chicago) and New York City, NY. Salvatore joined Markel in 2009 and brings 17 years of leadership experience in management liability. "I am excited about the launch of our management liability platform. These new products position Markel and our partners to respond well to the needs of our clients," commented Salvatore.

The products are accessible through Markel's network of appointed wholesale brokers, which can be found on markelcorp.com under "Find a Broker."

ABOUT MARKEL CORPORATION
Markel Corporation markets and underwrites specialty insurance products and programs to a variety of niche markets. In each of these markets, the Company seeks to provide quality products and excellent customer service so that it can be a market leader. The financial goals of the Company are to earn consistent underwriting profits and superior investment returns to build shareholder value.

For more information contact: Salvatore Pollaro, Managing Director, Markel Management Liability, spollaro@markelcorp.com, 212-551-2281


National Interstate Corporation

National Interstate Adds its 500th Alternative Risk Transfer Program Customer

Richfield, Ohio - National Interstate Insurance Company, a leader in alternative risk transfer (ART) insurance for the transportation industry, reports that participation in the company's ART component has grown to over 500 customers as of August 31, 2010. The company has steadily grown the ART component over the past 15 years. National Interstate's nearly two dozen ART programs represent 62% of the company's gross premiums written as of June 30, 2010.

"Reaching 500 alternative risk transfer members is a significant milestone for National Interstate, and we are extremely pleased with our ongoing success in this part of our business," said Dave Michelson, President and Chief Executive Officer. "ART programs offer an improved risk management method that is effective throughout all market cycles and economic conditions. We continue to see quality operators turning to alternative risk transfer as a long-term insurance solution. Since they offer the opportunity for stable insurance pricing coupled with the potential for reduced expenses and return of unused premiums, ART is a logical approach for safety-conscious companies. "

"Our ability to creatively and quickly design new ART programs has really become a core competency for National Interstate," said Terry Phillips, Senior Vice President. "We are also proud that our newest group programs, those that we have launched in the last year and a half, have doubled their membership since January 2010. These new programs have allowed National Interstate to expand into additional markets, and continue to build on our expertise and experience as an alternative risk transfer industry leader. We have come a long way since we wrote our first ART program in 1995, and we look forward to developing additional innovative programs to meet the unique needs of our customers and agent partners."

National Interstate is rated "A" (Excellent) VIII by A.M. Best Company, and has a 21-year history of solid growth and financial stability. If you are a company or insurance agent that would like to learn more about National Interstate's ART insurance programs, contact Dan Keenan, at 800-929-1500 x1413, or email dan.keenan@natl.com.


Breckenridge Insurance Services, LLC

New Breckenridge Program Targets Public Entities in West and Midwest

CHICAGO, - Breckenridge Insurance Services LLC was selected as the Program Administrator for CNA Select Risk's Public Entity program in 16 western and midwestern states. This program offers small and medium sized cities, towns, villages, counties and other special districts liability coverage for law enforcement officers and public officials. It also offers general liability, automobile liability and umbrella coverage for these jurisdictions along with employment practices liability coverage. At the option of the government entity, coverage can also be added for flood and earthquake.

Joe Filardo, executive vice president of Breckenridge Insurance Services, said the Breckenridge team, with experience working with public entity clients, brokers and agents, looks at the new program relationship as an excellent opportunity to grow with a comprehensive product in a competitive market. "Public officials need excellent coverage backed by a carrier that understands the issues local governments face today," Filardo explained.

Jeffrey Segall, vice president for CNA Select Risk, pointed out that local community governments need effective insurance now more than ever - to better protect themselves against costly losses at a time when municipal budgets are stretched to their limits.

"CNA is committed to providing insurance coverages and options to public entities," Segall said. "We are excited to expand our Public Entity program in the West through Breckenridge Insurance Services." All coverage is through CNA carriers rated "A" or higher by A.M. Best.

Information and applications for coverage can be obtained by emailing Filardo at jfilardo@breckis.com, Vernon Southerland, Breckenridge senior vice president, at vsoutherland@breckis.com or Ted Joyce, Breckenridge vice president, at tjoyce@breckis.com.

For a complete outline of the coverage, including coverage limits, go to the Breckenridge website at www.breckis.com. For additional information contact: Jack Roberts at Breckenridge IS, Inc. at 610-952-7313


National Specialty Underwriters, Inc.

NSU NOW OFFERS MED MAL RISK MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Bellevue, WA - NSU Healthcare, a division of National Specialty Underwriters, Inc., announced today that is has partnered with OmniSure Consulting Group to provide risk management and loss control services to NSU's medical professional liability customers.

This offering is unique among wholesalers of medical malpractice insurance in the U.S. Retail brokers and their healthcare industry clients will have access to the very best in risk management services - something that is often lacking in the excess and surplus lines med-mal marketplace, where the emphasis is too often limited to availability and price.

"This is the natural next step for NSU Healthcare," said Brad Hatfield, Vice President of Program Services. "Our strength since 1995 has been the degree to which we specialize. We have more than 25 top insurance markets to offer our retail brokers on a wholesale basis, and several emerging programs for specific segments of the healthcare industry. By overlaying this professional liability risk management service, we provides a very comprehensive set of solutions to our retail brokers and their clientele, helping them reduce risk, prevent claims, and improve their standing in the healthcare market place."

ABOUT NSU
National Specialty Underwriters, Inc. is an insurance program administrator and wholesale broker offering insurance solutions for Hospitality, Healthcare, Catastrophic Property, and Casualty Excess risks. For more information, visit our website at www.nsui.com.


Aon Affinity and Navigators Management Co.

Insurance Agents Gain Quality Coverage as Result of Aon Affinity and Navigators Management Company Partnership

Aon Affinity, a subsidiary of Aon Corporation (NYSE: AOC) and a leading provider of professional liability insurance programs for more than 60 years, announced today that it has signed a contract with Navigators Management Company, a subsidiary of The Navigators Group (NASDAQ: NAVG), to provide professional liability coverage to property and casualty insurance agents and agencies. The Agency Advantage Program will be available nationally to independent agents and agencies with up to $10 million in gross commissions.

"As a past president of a large metropolitan chapter of the Independent Insurance Agents, it was a priority for me that we develop a program to meet the needs of our colleagues in the industry," said Dan Miller, president of Aon Affinity's Insurance Agents Division. "Navigators truly understands what it takes to underwrite a specialty program like this. They offer comprehensive and innovative protection at competitive prices, and we are excited about the partnership we have formed."

Highlights of the Agency Advantage Program include:

  • Incentive for early claim resolution
  • Broad professional services definition inclusive of teaching accredited insurance courses and expert witness activities
  • Expanded coverage offerings to include wholesalers, managing general agents and managing general underwriters
  • "We are eager to work with the Aon Affinity team, whose experience and professionalism will complement our underwriting philosophy," says Reina L. Gregorio, president of professional liability for Navigators. "Partnering with such a leader in the industry is further evidence of Navigators' commitment to better serve the professional liability marketplace."

    Additionally, to make the application process easy, Navigators has agreed to accept current professional liability carrier's application when submitted with a completed Navigators' questionnaire. Just click here to download the questionnaire.

    For books of professional liability business, or should you have questions regarding the program, please contact us at the following:

    Contact Information; askaspn.com; (877) 319-8211; agencyadv@askaspn.com; ASPN Twitter Page ; ASPN Facebook Page


    Navigators Insurance Company and Victor O. Schinnerer & Company, Inc.

    NAVIGATORS INSURANCE COMPANY AND VICTOR O. SCHINNERER & COMPANY LAUNCH NON-PROFIT D&O PROGRAM

    Chevy Chase, MD -Navigators Insurance Company and Victor O. Schinnerer & Company, Inc. announce the launch of their new Non-Profit D&O program, effective June 1, 2010. Schinnerer shall act as program administrator for Navigators.

    "The launch of the new Non-Profit D&O program marks the beginning of a great relationship with Navigators," said Lorna Parsons, President and Chief Underwriting Officer at Schinnerer. "We're excited to be able to offer our customers a standout product and with Navigators as our new partner, we believe this program is exactly what the market has been waiting for. Our agents and brokers will be pleased with the enhanced coverages and broader risk appetite of the Schinnerer Non-Profit D&O program. By partnering with Navigators we are positioned to provide innovative insurance solutions."

    The admitted filing of this countrywide program is currently under way and 44 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico have approved to date. Available coverages in the new program include:

    • Wage and hour defense
    • Shared and separate limit options
    • Circumstance reporting
    • No D&O hammer clause
    • Broad definition of subsidiaries

    "The combination of Schinnerer's non-profit underwriting expertise and experience, and Navigators' strength and stability gives policyholders a tailored insurance program that responds to their needs," said Brian Turner, Vice President of Navigators Professional, a division of Navigators Management Company, Inc. "Schinnerer's market leadership in professional liability insurance is well-established. Their professionalism, attention to detail, and full commitment to the industries they serve make them the ideal partner for Navigators."

    In addition to the many classes of non-profits Schinnerer currently underwrites, senior care facilities and social service organizations are just a few new classes that have been added to the eligible classes of business. A full suite of products including directors & officers liability, employment practices liability and fiduciary liability are available making the program one of the most comprehensive offerings for Non-Profit D&O marketplace.

    Schinnerer will continue to service existing Non-Profit D&O policies under its prior program until their expiration date.

    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 46,000 insureds in various specialty industries through licensed independent insurance agents and brokers. Learn more at www.Schinnerer.com.

    Navigators Insurance Company is rated 'A' (Excellent) by A.M. Best. Navigators Insurance Company and Navigators Management Company are subsidiaries of The Navigators Group, Inc. which is an international specialty insurance holding company with insurance company operations, underwriting management companies, and operations at Lloyd's of London. Headquartered in New York City, Navigators has offices in major insurance centers in the United States, the United Kingdom and Continental Europe. Schinnerer Marketing Contact: Starr Crusenberry, Corporate Marketing (301) 951-6904, Starr.N.Crusenberry@Schinnerer.com

    Schinnerer Program Contact: Dean Townsend, Vice President (301) 961-9835, Dean.C.Townsend@Schinnerer.com


    Navigators Insurance Company

    Navigators Insurance Company and Victor O. Schinnerer & Company
    Launch Non-Profit D&O Program

    Chevy Chase, MD -Navigators Insurance Company and Victor O. Schinnerer & Company, Inc. announce the launch of their new Non-Profit D&O program, effective June 1, 2010. Schinnerer shall act as program administrator for Navigators.

    "The launch of the new Non-Profit D&O program marks the beginning of a great relationship with Navigators," said Lorna Parsons, President and Chief Underwriting Officer at Schinnerer. "We're excited to be able to offer our customers a standout product and with Navigators as our new partner, we believe this program is exactly what the market has been waiting for. Our agents and brokers will be pleased with the enhanced coverages and broader risk appetite of the Schinnerer Non-Profit D&O program. By partnering with Navigators we are positioned to provide innovative insurance solutions."

    The admitted filing of this countrywide program is currently under way and 44 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico have approved to date. Available coverages in the new program include:

    • Wage and hour defense
    • Shared and separate limit options
    • Circumstance reporting
    • No D&O hammer clause
    • Broad definition of subsidiaries

    "The combination of Schinnerer's non-profit underwriting expertise and experience, and Navigators' strength and stability gives policyholders a tailored insurance program that responds to their needs," said Brian Turner, Vice President of Navigators Professional, a division of Navigators Management Company, Inc. "Schinnerer's market leadership in professional liability insurance is well-established. Their professionalism, attention to detail, and full commitment to the industries they serve make them the ideal partner for Navigators."

    In addition to the many classes of non-profits Schinnerer currently underwrites, senior care facilities and social service organizations are just a few new classes that have been added to the eligible classes of business. A full suite of products including directors & officers liability, employment practices liability and fiduciary liability are available making the program one of the most comprehensive offerings for Non-Profit D&O marketplace. Schinnerer will continue to service existing Non-Profit D&O policies under its prior program until their expiration date.

    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 46,000 insureds in various specialty industries through licensed independent insurance agents and brokers. Learn more at www.Schinnerer.com.

    Navigators Insurance Company is rated 'A' (Excellent) by A.M. Best. Navigators Insurance Company and Navigators Management Company are subsidiaries of The Navigators Group, Inc. which is an international specialty insurance holding company with insurance company operations, underwriting management companies, and operations at Lloyd's of London. Headquartered in New York City, Navigators has offices in major insurance centers in the United States, the United Kingdom and Continental Europe.

    Starr Crusenberry, Marketing Specialist - Corporate Marketing, Victor O. Schinnerer & Company, Inc., Two Wisconsin Circle, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, Phone: 301-951-6904, Fax: 301-951-5444 , www.Schinnerer.com


    V3 Insurance Partners

    V3 Introduces New Miscellaneous Professional Liability Program

    Washington Crossing, PA. (June 3) - V3 Insurance Partners LLC today introduced "Vantage360SM MPL", its miscellaneous professional liability program. Designed for non-degreed professionals and professional service firms, it includes two revolutionary features: a Reputation Restoration coverage extension and a consent-to-settle clause with no "hammer" provisions.

    A managing general underwriting agency, V3 Insurance Partners targets the program at small to medium-sized non-degreed professional services firms with revenues up to $25 million. Covering more than 300 classes, the program includes standard coverages such as full prior acts, defense outside the limits for most classes, as well as coverage extensions for disciplinary proceedings and loss of earnings. The program is available in all 50 states and DC, on a non-admitted basis.

    "The program provides a host of features including a broker-friendly appointment process, an easy-to use application, a best-in-class coverage form, and the security of program insurer General Star, a Berkshire Hathaway company rated A++XV by A. M. Best, the highest rating possible," said V3's Professional Liability Practice Leader Robert Parker. "But it is our unique coverage features such as the 'no hammer' provision, Reputation Restoration and the Privacy, Security and Technology coverage extension, combined with the unparalleled security of General Star, which will distinguish our program."

    The Reputation Restoration Protection Coverage Extension covers the fees and expenses of a public relations firm, crisis management consultant or law firm to mitigate adverse publicity and restore an insured company's reputation. It is included at no additional charge and provides a sub limit of $25,000. "While crisis management coverage is common in D&O policies, our program is the first to provide this coverage as part of a miscellaneous professional liability product," explained Mr. Parker.

    The Vantage360SM MPL program eliminates the consent-to-settle hammer clause. "The consent-to-settle penalty has struck a nerve with many business owners," said Mr. Parker. "Our program will not settle a claim without the consent of our policyholder. When a decision is made to reject a settlement opportunity, our program insurer will pay 100% of costs at the resolution of a covered claim."

    Optional coverage extensions include intellectual property; sexual abuse/molestation, and for privacy, security and technology. The program also provides a deductible credit of up to 75% for claims settled without litigation, arbitration or mediation.

    About V3
    V3 Insurance Partners LLC is a Pennsylvania-based premier managing general underwriting agency offering programs targeted at middle market companies. Its four major practice groups Transportation, Professional Lines, Internet Workers Compensation and Property/Casualty are managed by industry leaders chosen for their talent, expertise and integrity. "V3 stands for vision, value and virtue," says president and CEO, Susan River., "We have an unwavering commitment to anticipate clients' needs, to offer quality service that exceeds expectations and to deliver genuine value based on years of experience."

    Coverage may not be available in all jurisdictions and is subject to actual policy language. Coverage for this program is provided by surplus lines insurers. Surplus lines insurers do not generally participate in state guaranty funds and insureds are therefore not protected by such funds.

    For more information, contact Robert Parker at (215) 600-0748 or Robert.Parker@V3ins.com


    Insurance Licensing Services of America, Inc

    ILSA Releases New Blackberry App that Allows Agents to View License Status Anywhere

    Groesbeck, Tex - Insurance agents and brokers can access valuable licensing and compliance information remotely with a new, one-of-a-kind Blackberry app that shows real-time license status information. This Blackberry app is a follow up to the March launch of the License Status App for the iPhone.

    Developed by the premier licensing and compliance organization Insurance Licensing Services of America, Inc. (ILSA), the new app is an invaluable tool that saves time and money. Agents do not have to be members of ILSA to use the app, which can be downloaded for a one-time fee of $5.99.

    "This new app means that insurance pros will never have to write business without knowing their status," said ILSA CEO Arleen Taveras. "This proprietary Blackberry app checks licenses against the National Producer Database. It gives them one-touch access to the country's premier licensing and compliance experts."

    ILSA, founded in 1997, handles insurance licensing and compliance in the entire U.S. as well as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. It processes resident and non-resident initial licensing and renewals for all lines of authority including Adjuster, Third Party Administrator (TPA), Managing General Agent (MGA), Risk Purchase Group (RPG) and Surplus Lines. ILSA is a leading provider of individual and corporate services in the insurance industry, handling corporate registration with the Secretary of State, annual returns, annual tax returns, renewals, continuing education tracking, carrier contracts, appointment requests, affiliations, name changes, address changes, carrier licensing, viatical settlement reporting and surplus lines tax filings.

    For more information, visit www.ilsainc.com. To buy the new app at the Blackberry Store, visit http://appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/content/9119.

    Lisa D. Miklojachak, Assistant Manager; Insurance Licensing Services of America, Inc.; 111 N. Railroad Street; P.O. Box 390; Groesbeck, TX 76642; Ofc: 254-729-8002; Dir: 254-729-6143; Fax: 254-729-8069


    NIF Group, Inc.

    Manhasset, New York - NIF Group, Inc., a leading Program Administrator, MGA and Specialty Brokerage firm, announces a new product for homeowners. NIF acts as the underwriter on behalf of an A (AM Best) rated carrier.

    "This competitive product will expand upon our current homeowner capabilities introducing an exciting new player to the Northeast Coastal Homeowners Marketplace." explained Anne Maher, head of NIF Group's personal lines division.

    The program is available in NY, NJ, RI, CT, and MA and focuses on coastal risks. An HO-3 and HO-8 is available with up to a $5,000,000 TIV limit. The product is written non-admitted.

    The new program will be added to NIF's comparative online rating system, Fastrack.

    For more information, please contact Anne Maher, amaher@nifgroup.com at NIF Group, Inc. Phone:201-307-8855 ex 28, fax: 201-307-8886, or visit the company's website at www.nifgroup.com and click programs>personal lines for more information.


    Victor O. Schinnerer & Company

    Victor O. Schinnerer & Co., Inc. Offers
    New Quick Application and Bind Request for Realty Choice Program

    Chevy Chase, MD-Victor O. Schinnerer & Company, Inc. is pleased to announce the new Rapid E&O Professional Liability Application and bind request form for its Realty Choice program. The one-page application and bind request form were created to simplify the buying process for small business accounts.

    Rapid E&O is designed for residential real estate firms with $150,000 or less in commission income. It offers quick turnaround for added convenience. Firms that qualify can place coverage immediately. It is available in all states except AK, CA, CO, HI, ID, IA, KY, LA, MS, NE, NM, NY, RI, SD and TN.

    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 insureds in various specialty industries through independent agents and brokers. Learn more about Schinnerer at: www.Schinnerer.com

    Contact information: Brandon Burke, Corporate Marketing, (301) 951-9746, Brandon.L.Burke@Schinnerer.com Jim Snyder, Senior Vice President, (301) 961-9851, James.M.Snyder@schinnerer.com.


    New Fascia Intake System Solves Ventilation Problems

    Wayne, NJ (01/10) - Attic ventilation is probably one of the most neglected areas of home construction and remodeling. All too often not enough thought is given to providing adequate ventilation, especially intake ventilation, to these spaces. That's why GAF Materials Corporation has introduced the Cobra® FasciaFlow™ Premium Intake Vent. It's today's solution to a 100-year-old construction problem.

    FasciaFlow™ ventilation's unique and patented design combines the form of a residential fascia board with the function of an intake vent to deliver critical intake ventilation on tough-to-vent homes with little or no soffit/under-eave area. The product provides a full 9 sq. in. per linear foot of NVA (net ventilation area) to help improve the efficiency of virtually any attic ventilation system. It can even help to boost the performance of existing soffit/under-eave vents.

    Cobra® FasciaFlow™ Premium Intake Ventilation allows cool air to enter the attic space, which drives warm, moist air out of the attic's exhaust vents. This helps prevent premature roof deterioration, ice damming in harsh winter climates, and roof rot in the attic and roof deck. Positive attic ventilation also helps minimize peeling of interior and exterior paint, limits the growth of harmful mold and mildew, and can even reduce excessive cooling costs in some applications.

    FasciaFlow™ Intake Ventilation System allows cool outside air to enter at the fascia-unlike other intake vents that require that openings be cut in parts of the roof deck which are vulnerable to ice dams and wind-driven rain. Cobra® FasciaFlow™ blends in with the most popular residential trim systems, making it virtually invisible after installation. It comes standard in white, but can be painted to match the unique color scheme of any home.

    Unlike wood or other traditional fascia materials, it is made of PVC for years of maintenance-free performance. Cobra® FasciaFlow™ ventilation is also a safe choice for homeowners because it typically can support the weight of residential gutters that are fully loaded with rain, ice or snow. An insect guard even helps to protect against unwanted infiltration by birds, insects and other pests.

    Cobra® FasciaFlow™ Intake Ventilation System is backed by a 40-year, ltd. Warranty and is part of the GAF-Elk Smart Choice® Roof System Solution that has earned the Good Housekeeping Seal. For more information, visit www.gaf.com.

    About GAF Materials Corporation:
    GAF Materials Corporation has grown to become the largest roofing and ventilation manufacturer in North America, with sales of nearly $3 billion annually. Its success is driven by a commitment to provide property owners and specifiers with their best and safest choice in roofing, and by helping supportive contractors and distributors to build their businesses and avoid hassles. Its products include a comprehensive portfolio of steep-slope roofing systems (marketed under the GAF-Elk brand) and low-slope roofing systems (marketed under the GAF brand). These products are supported by an extensive national network of factory-certified contractors. The Company also supports the industry through CARE, the Center for the Advancement of Roofing Excellence. CARE's mission is to help professional contractors and distributors to build their businesses through sales and management education, and to provide product and installation training to contractors, distributors, architects, property owners, and related industry personnel. Since its inception, CARE has provided education to over 100,000 professionals.


 
 

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