HOME

Hanleigh Expands Special Risk Practice with Three New Hires

Rick Fitzke, Eric Olivo, and Carla Trolio add valuable expertise and experience to organization

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – February 1, 2012 Hanleigh, a Crump Insurance Services Company (Crump P&C) and a division of Crump Group, Inc., the nation’s premier insurance wholesaler, today announced Rick Fitzke, Eric Olivo, and Carla Trolio have joined the Hanleigh business. Rick Fitzke and Eric Olivo join as Directors of Sales, and Carla Trolio as Senior Underwriter. Ed Kenney, President of Hanleigh commented, “These three talented professionals are tremendous additions to our Hanleigh business and key to our future growth strategy.”

Mr. Fitzke and Mr. Olivo both Director of Sales, provide over 36 years combined experience in disability sales with an extensive expertise in Individual, Corporate, & Group Disability Insurance. Mr. Fitzke can be reached at 303.324.4399 or at Rick.fitzke@hanleighinsurance.com. Mr. Fitzke comes to Hanleigh from Disability Resource Group where he served as the Vice President, Corporate Financial Solutions.

Mr. Olivo may be reached at 661.309.2233 or at Eric.Olivo@hanleighinsurance.com. Mr. Olivo comes to Hanleigh from MassMutual and UNUM.

Ms. Trolio, Senior Underwriter, provides over 10 years experience as a Senior Disability Underwriter. In her new role, Ms. Trolio will be responsible for the underwriting of all Hanleigh products as well as special projects including training and mentoring of Associate Underwriters and Sales Representatives. Ms. Trolio will also manage strategic projects, as needed. She may be reached at 201.505.1050 ext. 3028 or at Carla.Trolio@hanleighinsurance.com. Ms. Trolio comes to Hanleigh from MassMutual where she focused on the evaluation of complex medical and financial risks.

Combining their experience in disability marketplace lines, Mr. Fitzke, Mr. Olivo and Ms. Trolio will help Hanleigh increase its national presence, increase our partnerships with retail agents and provide added resources to our clients. All three new hires will also work to expand the relationships of our current clients.

About Crump Insurance Services and Hanleigh
Crump Insurance Services, Inc. (Crump P&C) is a division of Crump Group, Inc., the nation’s premier insurance wholesaler. Crump P&C includes Crump wholesale brokerage locations across the U.S. and in Bermuda, Hanleigh, Five Star Specialty Programs and Crump Professional Programs. Additional information on these companies is available at www.crumpins.com. Hanleigh designs and underwrites coverage for highly compensated corporate, entertainment, and sports risks. As underwriters of high limit disability, personal accident, special risk contingency and other niche products, Hanleigh provides risk solutions to some of the world’s most successful individuals and organizations. Hanleigh has been an innovator of special risk products for almost 30 years. More information specifically on Hanleigh is available at www.hanleighinsurance.com.

Top Executives from CIAB, Deloitte and Farmers Headline
2012 IMCA Annual Conference

Insurance Marketing and Communications AssociationTM gathers the world’s top insurance marketing and communications professionals to learn, network and share industry insights

DENVER – March 1, 2012 – Industry leaders from Farmers Insurance, CIAB, Deloitte Consulting, JD Power & Associates and other top organizations headline the 2012 Insurance Marketing and Communications AssociationTM Annual Conference in Denver, June 24-­-27, 2012, at the Ritz Carlton. The conference draws marketing and communications insurance professionals from across North America.

The event features Jerry Davies, AVP of Media & Public Relations for Farmers Insurance, who will present The Eye of the Media Storm: Communicating During Catastrophic Coverage. He will explain how careful preparation and a dose of empathy will deliver the best results for insurers when facing catastrophic communication situations.

“The IMCA Annual Conference offers insurance professionals a terrific opportunity to network with industry peers and develop meaningful connections,” said Linda J. Collins, IMCA president and VP of Corporate Communications at Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. “Our outstanding roster of speakers will also ensure that attendees come away from the meeting armed with fresh ideas and new approaches to their individual marketing and communication efforts.”

Keynote speaker Ken Crerar, president and CEO of The Council of Insurance Agents and Brokers (CIAB), will kick off the meeting with, Insurance Industry Insight. Don Hurzeler, author and retired CEO and president of Zurich Insurance Middle Markets, will present The Importance of Differentiating Yourself.

Leading insurance executives will participate in a valuable panel discussion, Trends in Insurance Marketing and Communications – A View from the Top. The panel features Hans Heukelum, SVP of Global Marketing & Communications at Aon Risk Solutions, Sarah German, VP Communications & Marketing at XL Group, and Frank Thompson, VP of Marketing at Shelter Insurance.

The 2012 IMCA Annual Conference agenda also features:

• When Did Personal Auto Become a Laughing Matter? – Jeremy Bowler, Senior Director of Insurance Practice at JD Power & Associates
• Marketing in the Nanosecond Culture – Richard Honack, Lecturer of Executive Programs for Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management
• Brand Resilience: Managing Risk and Recovery in a High Speed World – Jonathan Chopulsky, Principal at Deloitte Consulting
• Investing in the Future of Our Industry – Diane Mattis, Executive Director at INVest
• Connecting with Consumers: Boosting Response Using QR and Mobile Advertising Techniques – Richard Goldman, Founder and CEO of Competiscan • What Are the Numbers Really Telling You? – Anne-­-Marie Duffy, Co-­-president of Phoenix Marketing
• Advanced Social Media Marketing – Harry Gold, CEO and Managing Partner of Overdrive Interactive

The IMCA Annual Conference is also the location for the IMCA ShowcaseTM Awards, the longest-­-running creative awards competition for insurance marketing and communications professionals. The Showcase Awards Gala will take place on June 26 and will feature industry-­-leading marketing and communications work. Elite entries will be recognized with the Awards of Excellence and Best in Show in 35 categories, including corporate communications, electronic, print, social and broadcast media, and internal and external communications. The desirable SAMMYTM award, the top Showcase recognition, will be presented to the overall best submission as voted by meeting attendees.

This year, a special IMCA Showcase presentation will feature Larre Johnson, partner and creative director of Big Honkin Ideas. Johnson will also present, How to Get an Idea to Market and How to Un-­- Market an Idea, during the meeting’s workshop sessions.

Sponsors of the 2012 IMCA Annual Conference include A.M. Best Company, Business Insurance, Grinnell Mutual, Independent Agent Magazine, Insurance Journal, Main Street America Group, Phoenix Marketing International, Risk & Insurance, The Co-­-Operators and The Institutes. To register or learn more about the IMCA Annual Meeting or the Showcase Awards, visit www.imcanet.com.

About IMCA
The Insurance Marketing and Communications Association (IMCAsm) is an international organization of insurance professionals specializing in marketing, communications, advertising, sales promotion, public relations and media relations. The oldest insurance marketing and communications association in North America, it began as the Insurance Advertising Conference (IAC) in 1923 and was renamed in 1984 to better depict the evolving roles of insurance communicators. IMCA’s purpose is to promote excellence in insurance marketing and communications, improve the professional skills of members, foster the sharing of ideas and experiences among members and promote a positive image of the insurance industry.

Glatfelter Program Managers Acquires Bunker Hill’s Senior Living and Religious Institutions Programs

Programs will become part of newly formed Glatfelter Healthcare Practice and Glatfelter Religious Practice

York, Pa. – January 4, 2011 – Glatfelter Program Managers (GPM), a strategic business unit dedicated to Glatfelter Insurance Group’s program business, today announced that it has acquired the Senior Living and Religious Institutions programs of Bunker Hill Underwriters (BHU). BHU is the underwriting agency subsidiary of Houston International Insurance Group, which is based in Houston, Tex.

The Senior Living program will be known as Glatfelter Healthcare Practice, which will also include GPM’s program formerly known as Hospice and Community Care Insurance Services. The Religious Institutions program will be known as Glatfelter Religious Practice.

“These programs are an excellent fit with the current expertise and industry knowledge at Glatfelter Program Managers,” said Art Seifert, president of GPM. “We will continue to actively look to add to our program portfolio through acquisitions and organic growth.”

Glatfelter is retaining all underwriting and claims staff that has been servicing these two programs and they will continue to underwrite and service this business from Houston. Senior Living will continue to be written through QBE Specialty, rated “A” by A.M. Best, and Religious Institutions will continue to be written through admitted and non-­-admitted “A-­- or higher” A.M. Best rated carriers.

Glatfelter Healthcare Practice will provide coverage for skilled care, assisted living, independent living, continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), personal care and group homes, hospice, home health care agencies and other private homecare agencies. Coverage is all lines except workers’ compensation and most products are available in all 50 states.

Glatfelter Religious Practice specializes in large churches, synagogues and other religious institutions, and is available in all states except Alaska and Hawaii. It will provide all lines of coverage except workers’ compensation.

Agents and brokers seeking more information should contact Art Seifert at aseifert@glatfelters.com or 800-­233-­1957 Ext 7472.

About Glatfelter Program Managers (GPM)
GPM (www.glatfelters.com/specialty_insurance_programs.asp) is a strategic business unit dedicated to Glatfelter Insurance Group’s program business. Based in York, Pa., GPM is one of the premier managers and recognized specialists of niche markets in the country. GPM manages and markets several specialty programs, including VFIS for fire departments, ambulance and rescue squads, and 911 centers; Glatfelter Public Practice for educational institutions, municipalities, independent school bus contractors and water/sewer entities; Glatfelter Healthcare Practice for skilled care, assisted living, independent living, continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), personal care and group homes, hospice, home health care agencies and other private homecare agencies; and Glatfelter Religious Practice for churches, synagogues and other religious institutions.

National Interstate

National Interstate’s Affiliate, Safety, Claims and Litigation Affififiliate, Services, LLC, is Recognized by Best’s Review for Successful Innovation

Richfield, Ohio – January 23, 2012 – National Interstate Insurance Company announced that its affiliate, Safety, Claims and Litigation Services, LLC (SCLS) has been recognized for its accident event recorder program in the Innovators Showcase, published in the January 2012 edition of Best’s Review magazine.

The program provides commercial transportation insurance customers with access to Accident Event Recorder (AER) technology. AERs, which record video and audio when a driving incident occurs, can help to improve driver performance, reduce accidents and save lives while controlling losses and reducing insurance premiums. Since launch of the program in 2006, SCLS has helped install more than 14,000 of the recorders in customers’ vehicles.

Reviewer William Panning, executive vice president, Willis Re, wrote, "This project achieves its objective by gathering or assembling and making available to clients, in a convenient format, relevant data to which clients would not normally have access. The focus is on proactive preventive actions rather than on post-loss attempts to minimize loss costs."

Innovators Showcase is a forum for recognizing forward thinking among insurance organizations. A panel of insurance industry experts assessed the relative merits of nearly 70 submissions.

“We are very pleased to be included in the exclusive group selected for Best’s Review’s Innovators Showcase,” said Dave Michelson, President of National Interstate. “The AER program has proven to be very successful in helping commercial transportation companies become safer operators while significantly enhancing their safety programs. We appreciate the opportunity to share our innovation, and remain committed to providing this extremely valuable loss control tool to as many customers as possible.”

The digital edition of the article is available at: http://www3.ambest.com/bestweek/getpublication.asp?issueid=72ecd829&pageid=21

Best’s Review is published by the A.M. Best Co. for insurance professionals, including home office executives, agents and brokers. Founded in 1899, A.M. Best Co. is the world’s oldest and most authoritative insurance rating and information source.

About National Interstate
National Interstate Insurance Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of National Interstate Corporation, is a specialty property and casualty insurance company 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. Products include insurance for passenger, moving and storage, and truck 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. National Interstate and its insurance subsidiaries, which include Vanliner Insurance Company and Triumphe Casualty Company, are rated "A" (Excellent) by A.M. Best Company.

Ryan Specialty Group, LLC (RSG)

Ryan Specialty Group, LLC Acquires
Global Special Risks from Willis North America

Chicago, IL- Ryan Specialty Group, LLC (RSG) today announced the acquisition of Global Special Risks, LLC (GSR), a specialty underwriting manager from Willis North America Inc., a subsidiary of Willis Group Holdings (NYSE:WSH). GSR specializes in providing innovative solutions for energy, marine and specialty product offerings with the London and North American markets. GSR will become part of RSG Underwriting Managers, LLC. Willis Capital Markets & Advisory acted as a financial advisor to Willis. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

GSR was formed in 1979 as a London Market Coverholder (a Managing General Agency for Lloyd's and London Companies.) Over the years GSR has been at the forefront of creating new products specifically developed to fit the needs of energy and marine clients. The agency offers a broad range of exclusive, innovative products for this market niche including well control, comprehensive general liability, excess liability, contractor's equipment, professional liability, business interruption, cargo, maritime employer's liability and more.

RSG Chairman and CEO, Patrick G. Ryan notes "We are thrilled with the acquisition of Global Special Risks. GSR has a long tradition of innovation in the energy and marine areas. It brings a unique perspective to our specialty insurance offerings, providing our clients with an efficient underwriting platform and product distribution network of high-quality front-end services for energy and marine clients."

Willis Chairman and CEO Joe Plumeri adds, "We believe that joining GSR with the specialty underwriting companies of RSG is a good move for its team and energy clients."

For more information on this release, contact Chelsey Krull, (312) 784-6043, ckrull@ryansg.com.

About Ryan Specialty Group, LLC (RSG)
Ryan Specialty Group, LLC is a global holding company which includes a select group of highly-specialized underwriting companies, a Lloyd's insurer and other specialty services designed specifically for agents, brokers and insurers. www.ryansg.com

About Willis
Willis Group Holdings is a leading global insurance broker. Through its subsidiaries, Willis develops and delivers professional insurance, reinsurance, risk management, financial and human resource consulting and actuarial services to corporations, public entities and institutions around the world. Willis has more than 400 offices in nearly 120 countries, with a global team of approximately 17,000 employees serving clients in virtually every part of the world. Additional information on Willis may be found at www.willis.com.

R-T Specialty, LLC

R-T Specialty, LLC Acquires Maclean, Oddy & Associates

CHICAGO, ILL - R-T Specialty, LLC, the wholesale broker of Ryan Specialty Group, LLC, recently acquired Maclean, Oddy & Associates, Inc (MOA) business. MOA is a specialist broker for unusual property and casualty risks with a focus on environmental coverages. MOA has offices in Dallas and Houston, TX.

RT Specialty President and CEO Timothy W. Turnersays of the acquisition, "We are extremely pleased that MOA is part of the RT Specialty team. MOA's focus on unusual risks is a perfect fit for RT Specialty. With its addition to our team, we will be able to provide clients additional resources and strengthen our presence in Texas."

For more information on this release, contact Chelsey Krull, (312) 784-6043, ckrull@ryansg.com.

About R-T Specialty, LLC
R-T Specialty, LLC (RT) is a subsidiary of Ryan Specialty Group, LLC, specializing in wholesale brokerage, MGA/MGU underwriting facilities and other services to agents, brokers and carriers.In California: R-T Specialty Insurance Services, LLC License #0G97516. www.rtspecialty.com

Euclid Insurance Services Hires New Specialty Underwriting Team

Itasca, IL – December 15, 2011 – Euclid Insurance Services, Inc. (“Euclid”) announces the hiring of Daniel Aronowitz and four other nationally recognized specialty insurance experts to form Euclid Specialty Managers, LLC (“Euclid Specialty”). Euclid Specialty is a program administration company that manages specialty insurance programs with a particular focus on the organized labor affinity insurance market. Daniel Aronowitz, who will lead Euclid Specialty, is the former President of Ullico Casualty Company, where he and his team led the successful development of Ullico’s property and casualty insurance products for the labor movement. The Euclid Specialty team members are highly regarded thought leaders in fiduciary liability insurance for multiemployer and governmental benefit plans.

“Dan and his team are seasoned underwriters with insurance carrier backgrounds who will enhance Euclid’s reputation for best-in-class insurance products and expand our platform into risk-sharing and other creative commercial lines insurance solutions,” said John Colis, President and CEO of Euclid.

“My team and I chose Euclid because they are expert program administrators with the highest quality underwriting talent in the industry,” says Daniel Aronowitz, Managing Principal of Euclid Specialty. “We intend to utilize Euclid’s Professional Liability and Public Entity underwriting capabilities to help our broker partners grow, and to continue to bring creative insurance solutions to the benefit fund and non-profit markets in which we specialize.”

The Euclid Specialty team brings over 75 years combined experience serving the organized labor niche with commercial and professional liability insurance products. Euclid Specialty is developing programs providing fiduciary liability for multiemployer and governmental benefit plans, professional and commercial package insurance for union non-profit entities, and risk-sharing commercial and workers’ compensation specialty insurance programs. Euclid Specialty team members include:

• Daniel Aronowitz, Managing Principal, daronowitz@euclidmanagers.com, 415-254-4031
• Douglas R. Dvorak, Chief Claims Officer, ddvorak@euclidmanagers.com, 571-292-7792
• Michael Saa, Chief Underwriting Officer – Professional Liability, msaa@euclidmanagers.com, 914-439-1019
• Marty Gelhaus, Chief Underwriting Officer – Commercial Lines, mgelhaus@euclidmanagers.com, 202-747-4443
• John V. O’Brien, Chief Marketing Officer, jobrien@euclidmanagers.com, 440-714-5832

Euclid Specialty Managers will maintain offices in McLean, VA and New York City.

For more information on product availability, please contact any Euclid Specialty team member.

Midwest Insurance Agency Alliance Celebrates 10th Anniversary

November 17th, 2011 - Hampton, NH: SIAA, Inc. - the largest Alliance of Independent Property & Casualty Insurance Agencies in the country - is proud to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Midwest Insurance Agency Alliance (MIAA) as an SIAA Master Agency.

According to SIAA Chairman & CEO Jim Masiello, "Midwest Insurance Agency Alliance has achieved a significant milestone for which our Master Agencies across the country strive. On the national level, 60% of our Master Agencies have been with us for over a decade. It's this type of tenure that affirms SIAA's standing as the premiere Alliance of independent insurance agencies in the country. Our model has worked for nearly 30 years now - through soft and hard markets, economic downturns, extreme competition - virtually all conditions."

"Our Alliance is designed to help insurance agents at all stages." said MIAA CEO Mike Meacham. "Our retail agency, All American Insurance of Lincoln, Nebraska, celebrates 40 years in business in 2012, and we've managed growth from a small single storefront to multiple offices. Along with our agency management experience from Midwest Insurance Agency Alliance, SIAA's resources help P&C Agents, direct writers/captive agents, and producers continue or start their independent insurance agency by making them instantly big as part of our organization. The resources available to members help them navigate through the difficulties that often prevent a smaller or new independent insurance agency from succeeding."

Midwest Insurance Agency Alliance has been a Master Agency partner of SIAA since 2001 and a perennial winner of the "Top Recruiter" award. With territory including North and South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Minnesota, they are the largest independent agency group in the area. They are also the second largest Master Agency in the SIAA organization, with 117 active member agents. For more information on MIAA, visit miaainsurance.com.

The SIAA (Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance) concept originated in New England in 1983 where many local insurance agencies were finding it difficult to receive carrier appointments, start new insurance agencies, compete against larger insurance agencies, and receive profit sharing. Midwest Insurance Agency Alliance has grown to be second in size only to the founding Master Agency, SAN Group.

SIAA is a national alliance with billions in combined profitable premium. SIAA utilizes its stability and strength through traditional and alternative market channels for the purpose of providing insurance consumers with competitive choices in addition to providing significant profit and equity appreciation opportunities for SIAA Member Agencies. This national alliance of insurance agencies has engaged more than 3,900 members. For additional information about SIAA, visit www.siaa.net.

SIAA Adds Another Master Agency to the California Marketplace

December 8, 2011 - Hampton, NH: SIAA, Inc. - the largest Alliance of Independent Property & Casualty Insurance Agencies in the country - recently announced that Master Agency partner CoVerica Agency Alliance (formerly called SIG Agency Alliance) has expanded into the State of California. CoVerica's territory in California will include the northern Los Angeles and Sacramento areas.

"We welcome CoVerica of California as our 52nd Master Agency," announced SIAA CEO Jim Masiello. "The experience and expertise that CoVerica can provide in these new territories is significant given their 10 years of membership with SIAA." Masiello went on to say, "With the current economic climate and hardening of the insurance marketplace, CoVerica will enable local independent agents to weather the storm by following the SIAA model. It's true, we make agencies instantly big! Our model has worked since 1983 through soft and hard markets, economic downturns, and extreme competition - virtually all conditions. And that is good news for the local independent agents in CoVerica's California territories who qualify to become members."

CoVerica in California will be managed locally by Bill Kinney, President and CEO of Kinney and Company of Pasadena, CA. Mr. Kinney has established a reputation for serving a multi-cultural and ethnically diverse customer base, which in turn has helped him build a substantial insurance agency. He has served on a number of advisory boards for insurance carriers over his 33 year career and purchased the Corinth Agency after working there for more than twenty years.

Mike Sterlacci, President and CEO of CoVerica, started the Master Agency in Dallas, TX in 2001 and has grown it to include 48 active member agencies. His experience in building a successful organization in partnership with SIAA will enable the California operation to "hit the ground running". Mr. Sterlacci commented, "I'm excited at the prospect of bringing the SIAA model to our California territories and look forward to creating a win-win situation for independent agents there." For more information on CoVerica Agency Alliance (SIG Agency Alliance), visit www.sigagencyalliance.com.

SIAA (Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance) is a national alliance of over 3,900 independent insurance agencies. SIAA utilizes its stability and strength through traditional and alternative market channels for the purpose of providing insurance consumers with competitive choices in addition to providing significant profit and equity appreciation opportunities for SIAA Member Agencies. For more information on SIAA, visit www.siaa.net.

Schinnerer Wins American Public Gas Association Endorsement

Chevy Chase, MD - December 6, 2011 - Victor O. Schinnerer & Company, a leading managing general underwriter, announces its selection by the American Public Gas Association (APGA) as the endorsed insurance program for APGA members. The membership consists of publicly- and community-owned gas utilities.

Schinnerer will provide its property & casualty and management liability programs to APGA members. Underwritten by Schinnerer and backed by A rated carriers, the program is designed for the unique needs of the natural gas industry.

Insurance offerings include:

• General liability
• Property
• Crime
• Inland marine
• Commercial auto
• Excess liability
• Umbrella
• Directors & officers liability
• Employment practices liability
• Fiduciary liability

Schinnerer was selected based on its market stability, expertise in underwriting, quality of coverage and service standards.

Visit www.schinnerer.com/APGA for more information. The partnership commences on January 1, 2012.

About APGA
The American Public Gas Association (APGA) is The Voice and Choice of Public Gas in Washington, D.C. APGA is the not-for-profit nationwide association for publicly- and community-owned gas utilities and represents over 700 members in 36 states. We advocate on issues that impact our members and the communities they serve. We also work across the nation to educate our members on best safety practices, legislative issues, effective business and operational strategies, and host conferences promoting the benefits of natural gas as a responsible and efficient energy source. www.apga.org.

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 insurance agents and brokers. Learn more at www.schinnerer.com.

Markel Announces Agreement to Acquire THOMCO

Richmond, VA, December 7, 2011 – Markel Corporation (NYSE-MKL) and Thompson Insurance Enterprises, LLC (dba THOMCO) announced today that they have entered into a definitive agreement for Markel to acquire THOMCO, a privately held Program Administrator underwriting multi-line, industry-focused insurance programs. Headquartered in Kennesaw, Georgia, THOMCO manages over 20 national programs including Medical Transportation, Senior Living, Childcare Centers, Fitness Clubs, Pest Control Operators, Tanning Salons and Inflatable Rental Operators, among others.

THOMCO expects to underwrite in excess of $170,000,000 in gross written premium in 2011. The firm produces business through a network of 4,500 producers and has 108 employees, with the majority located at the home office in Kennesaw in addition to branch offices in Kansas City and Denver.

THOMCO will continue to operate as a separate business unit with Greg Thompson and Bob Heaphey, THOMCO’s current Chairman and President, respectively, leading the operation. The operating unit will be a part of Markel Specialty.

The transaction has been approved by all THOMCO’s members. Completion of the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including Hart-Scott-Rodino clearance, and is expected to occur in the first quarter of 2012. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

“We are very compatible organizations,” commented Greg Thompson, THOMCO’s Chairman. ”Both companies have built an excellent reputation for integrity, customer service and underwriting discipline. Markel prides itself on providing an atmosphere in which people can reach their personal potential, and we whole-heartedly embrace that value. Our product innovation, niche expertise, distribution network and technology complement Markel’s outstanding Claims Department and financial strength. We will be able to better serve our customers while offering greater opportunity to our staff. This transaction should be a winner for both parties.”

Mike Crowley, Markel’s President and Co-Chief Operating Officer, added: “With the acquisition of THOMCO, we are witnessing the combination of two companies that share a similar history. Both were founded by families that maintain leadership positions in their respective firms and who share similar cultures and values.”

About Markel Corporation
Markel Corporation is a diverse financial holding company serving a variety of niche markets. The Company’s principal business markets and underwrites specialty insurance products. In each of the Company’s businesses, it 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 and operating profits and superior investment returns to build shareholder value.

This release contains statements concerning or incorporating expectations, assumptions, plans, objectives, future financial or operating performance and other statements that are not historical facts. These statements are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. There are risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from predicted results in forward-looking statements, including the ability to consummate the acquisition of THOMCO by Markel; the ability to promptly and effectively integrate the operations of Markel and THOMCO; timing to consummate the proposed transaction and any necessary actions to obtain required regulatory approval; potential disruption of current THOMCO business relationships because of the transaction; loss of key employees; and increased operational and control risks during the integration process. Additional information about factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements is described under the captions "Risk Factors" and "Safe Harbor and Cautionary Statement" in Markel's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. By making forward-looking statements, Markel does not intend to become obligated to publicly update or revise any such statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or other changes.

SIAA Grows by 35 Agencies in November 2011

December 6, 2011 - Hampton, NH: The Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance (SIAA) announced 35 new member agencies in November.

Of November's signed members, 25 are liberated "captive agents" new to the independent agency system - bringing new premium dollars and new people into the system. SIAA helped create over 290 new agencies in 2010 from a total of 420 newly signed members. 307 have been announced in 2011 to date.

"We are excited to be able to grow at a steady and aggressive pace." said Jim Masiello, SIAA's CEO. "This is further evidence of how our model works irrespective of the economic climate."

SIAA members wrote more than $310 million in new business premiums in 2010 and are projected to exceed that volume for 2011. The new business premium for 2010 was up over 27% from 2009's figure of $235 million.

November's new members include:

East:

• The Highbeam Group of Cherry Hill, NJ
• Geraci Agency of Clinton Corners, NY
• ENV Property & Casualty of Liverpool, NY
• Central New York P&C Agency of Syracuse, NY
• John Navage, Jr. of Beaver Falls, PA
• Jones Insurance Group of North East, MD

Midwest:

• Epic Insurance Agency of Solon, OH
• Raymond F. Trout of Clayton, MO
• Republic Underwriters of Clawson, MI
• TCB Transportation Insurance of Fort Wayne, IN
• Schoen Insurance Agency of Charlotte, MI

West:

• Quest Financial Insurance Services of Palm Desert, CA
• Robbins Financial and Insurance Services of Cypress, CA
• Brasher Insurance Group of Bountiful, UT
• WorkComp For Less Insurance Services of Carlsbad, CA
• Kinney & Company of Pasadena, CA
• Arrowhead Insurance Services of Lake Arrowhead, CA
• Insure Wise Insurance Brokers of Agoura Hills, CA
• Insure It of Rogers, AZ
• Norwest Insurance Agency of Seattle, WA
• Robin Hart-Taylor Insurance Agency of El Cajon, CA

Southeast:

• Florida VN Company of Pinellas Park, FL
• Wells Insurance Agency of Macclenny, FL
• Sadler & Hamm of Flowery Branch, GA
• Jake Moore Insurance of Brandon, FL
• Don Allred & Associates of Burlington, NC
• Bailey / Fleming Insurance Agency of Inman, SC
• Taylors Insurance Agency of Taylors, SC
• Ball Insurance Services of Florida of Edgewater, FL

South Central:

• Partners Premier Insurance Agency of Georgetown, TX
• Spengler-Stewart Agency of Alexandria, LA

Since it's inception in 1995, SIAA has signed over 3,900 new members.

SIAA is dedicated to the creation, retention and growth of the Independent Insurance Agency distribution system. SIAA provides independent agencies with the company access necessary to become instantly BIG. For more information on SIAA visit www.siaa.net.

The National Insurance Agency Alliance
For additional information, contact James Lane, Senior Marketing Manager, at jamesl@siaa.net or 603-601-1216.

SAN Group, Inc. Collects Over 450 Toys for Tots Donations from 7 Communities

December 21, 2011 (Hampton, NH) - SAN Group, Inc., its member agencies, and insurance company representatives donated over 450 toys for the U.S. Marine Toys for Tots program while attending their regional SAN Principals Meetings. Each fall, a series of 7 meetings are held across New England and New York. The annual collection takes advantage of the large business gatherings to support a worthy cause. All donations were delivered to local Toys for Tots drop-off points. For over 5 years, SAN has collected a generous supply of trucks, games, dolls, puzzles, stuffed animals and craft kits for the charity.

"We are happy to continue this tradition and are thankful for the opportunity to ensure needy children have a Merry Christmas," said Matt Masiello, President and COO of SAN. "When everyone pitches in, we can accomplish great things and it's never more appropriate than at the holiday season."

The mission of the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community.

The objectives of Toys for Tots are to help less fortunate children throughout the United States experience the joy of Christmas; to play an active role in the development of one of our nation's most valuable resources - our children; to unite all members of local communities in a common cause for three months each year during the annual toy collection and distribution campaign; and to contribute to better communities in the future.

For more information about the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation or to find a toy drop-off location, visit toysfortots.org.

SAN Group, Inc. is the founding Member Agency of the Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance (SIAA), a national alliance of over 3,800 signed independent insurance agencies generating hundreds of millions in new premium annually. For more information on SAN Group visit www.sangroup.com.

Appalachian Underwriters, Inc. receives endorsement from Independent Insurance Agents of Georgia, Inc.

Oak Ridge, Tenn – November 30, 2011 – Appalachian Underwriters, Inc. (AUI) is proud to announce that it has received the endorsement from the Independent Insurance Agents of Georgia (IIAG) to be the exclusively endorsed workers’ compensation provider for their 660 member agencies.

“The Independent Insurance Agents of Georgia is one of the most esteemed insurance organizations in the country. We are happy to have received their endorsement and look forward to working with their member agencies” says Bob Arowood, President of Appalachian Underwriters, Inc.

“IIAG is proud to endorse Appalachian Underwriters for all of their workers’ compensation offerings. On a recent visit to the headquarters in Oak Ridge, TN, I was very impressed by AUI’s facilities and team. We look forward to working more closely with this organization. We are extremely confident that Appalachian will be extremely capable of assisting our members with their work comp needs” said Aubie Knight, CIC, CRM; CEO of Independent Insurance Agents of Georgia, Inc.

With the ever-changing insurance landscape in Georgia, many agents have lost a number of their carrier outlets. AUI is prepared to fill that void with their offering in Georgia, Bulldog Comp. The program is focused on hard-to-place types of accounts such as carpentry, millwrights, excavation, short-haul trucking, accounts with height exposure up to 40 feet and much more. Through this aggressive program, AUI can accept accounts with experience modification factors up to a 1.50. Online rating capabilities are available to agents by visiting www.appund.com

For additional information on the program or the endorsement, please feel free to contact Garland Byrd at 888-376-9633, ext 1005 or by email at garland.byrd@appund.com

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

Accident Insurance Company (AIC)

AIC Sought and Found; Appointed 102 Agents in 100 Days

COLUMBIA, SC - Between July 12 and Oct. 12, 2011, AIC embarked on its first national campaign to appoint 100 Agents in 100 Days. As of yesterday, the final day of the campaign, AIC has appointed 102 independent insurance agents in 100 days-reaching its original goal, with two to spare.

Of the 102 newly appointed direct agents, 9 were appointed in AL., 21 in AR., 6 in AZ., 10 in GA., six in IL., 14 in IN., 5 in KY., 6 in MO., 7 in MS., 3 in OK., 6 in SC, one in TN., and 8 in Va.

"We are extremely pleased with the outcome of this campaign," said AIC chief marketing officer Jon Beckham. "Of course we were keeping a running tally with each appointment, but towards the end we started to question whether we would actually be able to make our goal, so knowing we made it to 102 is really a great feeling."

In total, the 102 newly appointed agents have been in business for an average of 32 years; have approximately 15 employees; produce a total commercial premium volume of more than $8 million; produce a total workers' compensation premium volume of nearly $2 million; and will produce an average of $109,000 in the first year of appointment; $166,000 in the second year; and $235,000 in the third.

Beckham added, "When we started this campaign, we had set standards not just for the geographic location of the agencies we were seeking, but also for their production, history and values." He said, "We wanted to be sure the appointments would be a mutually beneficial partnership for both the agency and AIC. We are really pleased to have so many top-notch agency's throughout the U.S. join our team of direct agents."

Having wrapped up the 100 Agents in 100 Days campaign, AIC has laid the ground work for additional growth and expansion coming in 2012.

AIC is a strong, stable commercial lines provider throughout the Southeast. Licensed in 18 states, AIC maintains a conservative approach to underwriting and a disciplined approach to its operations and investment strategies, resulting in favorable operating results, reliable profitability, and consistent and tempered growth. AIC prides itself on financial stability, quality product offerings at fair prices, and a small business service mentality.

For more information on AIC, please visit www.accinsco.com.

The Overby-Seaswell Company

Overby-Seawell Company Changes Name to OSC

KENNESAW, GA - The Overby-Seawell Company, a specialist in lender-placed insurance and risk management services and products, has changed its name to OSC.

OSC's specialty is protection and risk analysis of the collateral securing commercial, vehicle and residential real estate lending. Its collateral tracking technology is an industry leader and provides the platform for its risk management services to financial institutions. OSC also provides tax and escrow services.

The new name comes at a time when OSC is rapidly expanding beyond its traditional market in the Southeast United States. "We felt we needed a new branding strategy as the company now serves some of the largest financial institutions throughout the United States," explained CEO Larry Overby. "We have expanded our customer base providing lender-placed collateral protection services to large and small banks, credit unions, finance companies and mortgage servicing companies," Overby said.

In 2010 OSC was acquired by the Breckenridge Insurance Group a specialty underwriter, wholesale insurance broker and insurance services company with offices throughout the United States.

OSC's roots date back more than 20 years in the lender-placed financial community. Collateral protection insurance is triggered by a lapse in insurance coverage by the borrower on the collateral, such as a car or single family home, securing a loan by a financial institution. Today, OSC provides its insurance and risk services to more than 1,200 lenders.

For information about OSC, go to its website, www.oscis.com. For additional information contact CEO Larry Overby or COO Ted Lamb at (800) 432-1258.

Target Markets Program Administrators Association (TMPAA)

Sterling & Sterling and The Redwoods Group Awarded TMPAA Best Practice Honors

Wilmington, DE-The Target Markets Program Administrators Association (TMPAA) awarded two of its member agencies, Sterling & Sterling, Inc. and The Redwoods Group, the Association's Best Practice Designation at their recent Eleventh Annual Summit in Scottsdale, AZ.

Jeremy Hitzig, TMPAA President and Distinguished Programs CEO stated, "The TMPAA continues to celebrate its 10th year of serving the unique needs of the Program Specialist. Our Best Practice Designation stands at the core of what the Association looks to bring to this industry segment and our members. Once again, this Designation provides us the opportunity to showcase our members who function at the highest levels, and have demonstrated their expertise in Program Administration. We are pleased to recognize Sterling & Sterling, Inc. and The Redwoods Group as our newest Best Practice Designation recipients."

"On behalf of Sterling & Sterling, we are thrilled to be awarded the Target Market's Best Practice Designation," stated Leslie Nylund, Vice Chairman of Sterling & Sterling, Inc. "We pride ourselves on our adherence to compliance, professional standards and driving excellence in our delivery of service to our clients. Going through the Target Markets review and audit process further enforced our high level of commitment to discipline in our underwriting process and delivery of consistent quality and value to all our partners."

Kevin Trapani, President and CEO of The Redwoods Group, stated, "It is a tremendous honor to receive the designation of Best Practices from the Target Markets Program Administrators Association. The Association understands and serves the Program Administrator space well and that deep understanding was demonstrated during the audit process. We were impressed by TMPAA's emphasis on financial controls, enterprise risk management, underwriting profitability, perpetuation planning and human resource practices. Their leadership is looking for strong, sustainable enterprises that care about their customers, their risk bearing partners, their people and the communities they serve-these are the agencies they seek to uphold as models in our industry."

The Association's Eleventh Annual Summit was attended by close to 800 Program Business Professionals including 175 Program Agencies and the group's 53 Program Carriers. The group had the privilege of hearing a Keynote address from former President George W. Bush, and Industry speaker William R Berkley. Both shared their insights on leadership and current world affairs.

The Target Markets Program Administrators Association's 2012 Mid Year Meeting is scheduled for April 30 to May 2 in Boston, MA. Program Specialists/MGA's interested in learning more about the TMPAA Best Practice Designation or the Association can find information at www.targetmarkets.com or by calling 877-347-5700.

Information about Sterling & Sterling, Inc. can be found at www.sterlingrisk.com - The Redwoods Group at www.redwoodsgroup.com.

IMCA “Gets Unwired” at 3rd Annual Creative Forum

Top creative minds from Ogilvy Public Relations, Aon, Zurich and others take on marketing and communications topics from storytelling to mobile marketing in Atlanta Feb. 26-27

Atlanta – November 28, 2011 – The Insurance Marketing and Communications Association (IMCA) invites insurance marketing and communications professionals to “get unwired” for the Third Annual IMCA Creative Forum at the Westin Atlanta Airport Hotel in Atlanta, Ga., February 26-27, 2011.

The intense, one-day immersion into creative trends and issues will focus this year on how to combine fundamental principles of storytelling and creativity with the latest marketing and communications strategies, from mobile marketing to social media. The uniquely different, content-rich event experience is designed to stimulate the creative core within all marketing and communications professionals.

Keynote speaker Mike Hatcliffe, managing director of Corporate US Practice at Ogilvy Public Relations, will open the event with “The Art of Storytelling: Media Relations and Building Reputation,” a discussion of how to effectively convey a company’s story through digital communications and social media tactics, with lessons to be learned from those who are winning in this new media world – and those who are losing.

The conference will also feature:

• Gregg Fraley, entrepreneur, author, speaker and innovation consultant, on how the Creative Problem Solving (CPS) method can solve business challenges.
• Jeff Bair, CIC, executive director of IA operations and strategic marketing at Foremost Insurance, on how to take social media to the next level.
• Regis Coccia, director of marketing and communications at Aon, and Bob Evans, Director of Mobile Insurance Solutions, on understanding current trends of mobile marketing.
• Jill Gaynor, assistant vice president of marketing strategy and execution at Zurich, on how digital marketing has affected the use of traditional media.
• Jon C. Bidwell, chief innovation officer at Chubb & Son, on how to digitally manage personal lines.

The conference will close with Jerry Gentemann, president and founder of Mobilize Worldwide, who will share his insights and show numerous examples of how the insurance industry can best use current technology. Gentemann has clients spanning the globe and created the first augmented reality program (the next level of print and digital interaction) for Coca-Cola.

The Creative Forum is sponsored by The Main Street America Group. Those interested can learn more or register at www.imcanet.com or by calling 206-219-9811.

About IMCA
The Insurance Marketing and Communications Association (IMCAsm) is an international organization of insurance communications professionals specializing in marketing, communications, advertising, sales promotion, public relations and media relations. The oldest insurance marketing and communications association in North America, it began as the Insurance Advertising Conference (IAC) in 1923 and was renamed in 1984 to better depict the evolving roles of insurance communicators. IMCA’s purpose is to promote excellence in insurance marketing and communications, improve the professional skills of members, foster the sharing of ideas and experiences among members and promote a positive image of the insurance industry.

Connect and engage with IMCA on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Imcanet), LinkedIn (www.linkd.in/w1bAE2) or Twitter (www.twitter.com/imcanet).

Philadelphia Insurance

Philadelphia Insurance Launches Executive Sponsor Program Unique program puts Company executives a phone call away

Bala Cynwyd, PA, November 28, 2011 - Executives at Philadelphia Insurance Companies (PHLY) are picking up the phone to show the company’s commitment to exceeding customer service expectations. PHLY is taking this approach through a new and unique customer service program designed to strengthen relationships and provide unsurpassed customer service.

The Executive Sponsor Program (ESP) matches PHLY executives at a Vice President level or higher with two or more insurance agency executives or policyholders. The intent of the Program is to ultimately create greater retention and drive loyalty with PHLY’s key agents and policyholders.

The Executive Sponsor Program focuses on a dedicated relationship between executives to supplement the attention they consistently receive from PHLY Marketing representatives. This proactive contact will set the bar higher, creating increased value in the relationship each agency has with Philadelphia Insurance.

“For some, this is an opportunity for personal growth as company executives reach beyond their typical day-to-day responsibilities and develop an understanding of the significance each relationship can hold in the service experience,” comments Seth Hall, Vice President of Customer Service for PHLY. “For all, it is a reminder that our paychecks are made possible by these partnerships and the service we provide every day.”

Results from the first three months clearly qualify the Program as a differentiator. PHLY’s Northwest region directly attributes the relationship built within the Executive Sponsor Program as a key driver in obtaining a new account producing a six-figure premium.

According to Morgan West, Jr., President of the Property Casualty division of Seattle-based agency Kibble & Prentice, “The Executive Sponsor Program is another great service that makes it a pleasure to work with PHLY. I appreciate having the opportunity to provide feedback directly to PHLY’s leadership, and look forward to providing PHLY with solid information to continue moving forward together.”

32 PHLY executives are working with 63 agents and four policyholders in the Executive Sponsor Program. As the Program matures, PHLY expects this differentiating personal contact to become a model for all of its agent and policyholder interactions. PHLY’s commitment to service excellence is front and center on the company’s homepage of PHLY.com where is provides an avenue to give feedback to its CEO and lists its customer service results; highlighted by the fact that 97% of its policyholders would recommend PHLY.

“Our goal is to always exceed service expectations,” added Hall. “We’re committed to providing overwhelmingly positive service. It’s what helps separate PHLY from other insurance carriers and builds our mutually beneficial partnerships.”

About PHLY
Philadelphia Insurance Companies designs, markets, and underwrites commercial property/casualty and professional liability insurance products incorporating value added coverages and services for select industries. In operation since 1962, the Company, whose commercial lines insurance subsidiaries are rated A++ (Superior) by A.M. Best Company and AA- for counterparty credit and financial strength by Standard & Poor’s, is nationally recognized as a member of Ward's Top 50 and National Underwriter’s Top 100 (for in-depth financial information, please visit our website at www.phly.com). The organization has 46 offices strategically located across the United States to provide superior service.

Philadelphia Insurance Companies is the marketing name for the property casualty insurance operations of Philadelphia Consolidated Holding Corp., a Member of the Tokio Marine Group. In the United States, all products are written by insurance company subsidiaries of Philadelphia Consolidated Holding Corp. Coverage may not be available in all jurisdictions and is subject to actual policy language. Certain coverage may be provided by a surplus lines insurer. Surplus lines insurers do not generally participate in state guaranty funds and insureds are therefore not protected by such funds. Non-insurance products and services may be provided by independent third parties.

SIAA Grows by 45 Agencies in October 2011

November 15, 2011 - Hampton, NH: The Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance (SIAA) announced 45 new member agencies in October.

Of October's signed members, 32 are liberated "captive agents" new to the independent agency system - bringing new premium dollars and new people into the system. SIAA helped create over 290 new agencies in 2010 from a total of 420 newly signed members. 282 have been announced in 2011 to date.

"October was a banner month for new member growth." said Jim Masiello, SIAA's CEO. "This is further evidence of how our model works irrespective of the economic climate."

SIAA members wrote more than $310 million in new business premiums in 2010 and are projected to exceed that volume for 2011. The new business premium for 2010 was up over 27% from 2009's figure of $235 million.

October's new members include:

East:
Cosgrove General Insurance of Towson, MD
PA Insurance Center of Blakeslee, PA
HR Staley Agency of Binghamton, NY
RFG Insurance Agency of Yorktown Heights, NY
Spaulding & Leib Insurance Agency of Leicester, MA
Cynergy Captive Markets of Vineland, NJ
Jeffrey D. Chapman of Penfield, NY
The Genesis Insurance Group of Stroudsburg, PA

Midwest:
Kastyl Insurance Agency of Florence, WI
First American Financial Insurance Agency of Chillicothe, OH
Dan Herbrand Agency of Neillsville, WI
Strategic Business Alliance of Escanaba, MI
Independent Insurance Agency of Ohio of Cleveland, OH
Affordable Insurance Solutions of Madison, WI
Rick D Debe Insurance Agency of Mukwonago, WI
Mindie Freeman Insurance Agency of Westlake, OH
Gold Insurance Group of St. Louis, MO
Frontier Insurance Brokers of Algonquin, IL
Duet Insurance Group of Carpentersville, IL
O'Malley Martin Group of Olathe, KS
Angora Insurance Services of Chicago, IL
Rielly Insurance and Financial Services of Oskaloosa, IA

West:
Kasia Insurance Services of Sacramento, CA
Paul Bird Insurance Agency of Grand Junction, CO
Shadow Insurance of Missoula, MT
Intermountain Insurance Associates of Sandy, UT
Brian Grigg of La Mesa, CA

Southeast:
Bethlehem Insurance Group of Hickory, NC
SourceOne Insurors of Macon, GA
Carli Insurance Agency of Lake Mary, FL
Specialized Insurance Group of Rockwell, NC
Moore's Insurance Group of New Port Richey, FL
Dalton Insurance Agency of the Carolinas of Rosman, NC
Wilkinson Insurance Agency of Milledgeville, GA
The Hendricks Group Risk Management and Financial Services of Jacksonville, FL
Winchester Insurance Agency of Winchester, KY

South Central:
Humphreys Insurance Group of Tomball, TX
Pattillo Insurance Agency of Lancaster, TX
Tailor-Made Insurance of Bastrop, LA

Since it's inception in 1995, SIAA has signed over 3,800 new members.

SIAA is dedicated to the creation, retention and growth of the Independent Insurance Agency distribution system. SIAA provides independent agencies with the company access necessary to become instantly BIG. For more information on SIAA visit www.siaa.net.

The National Insurance Agency Alliance
For additional information, contact James Lane, Senior Marketing Manager, at jamesl@siaa.net or 603-601-1216.

Target Markets Program Administrators Association

Research: Program Business Market Hits $17.5 Billion in Gross Written Premiums

Wilmington, DE-The Target Markets Program Administrators Association (TMPAA) released the report and results of its ground-breaking research to document the size, characteristics, growth and other base-line information about the program insurance market. The first-ever "The State of Program Business Study" was presented at the Association's 11th Annual Summit in Scottsdale, AZ.

Respondents to the survey reported that the program business continues to grow despite falling rate levels as a greater number of program administrators saw premiums rise in the past year. With program administrators seeing increasing value in placing specialized risks, survey respondents are optimistic about prospects for future growth.

The study pegged the program administration market at $17.5 billion in premiums. It is composed of about 750 program administrators and involves an estimated 1,750 individual programs.

TMPAA describes program business as insurance products targeted to a particular niche market or class, generally representing a book of similar risks placed with one carrier. Program Administration may include marketing, underwriting selection, binding, issuing, billing, premium collections, data gathering, claims management/ loss control and possibly risk sharing. Specialists distribute these Programs on a retail or wholesale basis.

Interestingly, program administrators and insurers are in sync when it comes to their view of the components crucial to establishing a successful program. On top of both group's list is underwriting profitability. Other key factors for the two groups are gross written premium, commission rate and growth rate.

The research study and survey was conducted by Advisen, the commercial insurance research and data analytics firm. The analysis included a survey of program administrators, carriers and managing general agents. Additional data and information was drawn from the Advisen databases of retail brokers, managing general agents and underwriters and wholesale brokers.

Argo Group International Holdings Ltd. is sponsoring the research effort. Argo Group, a carrier member of TMPAA, is an international underwriter of specialty insurance and reinsurance products in areas of the property and casualty markets. It operates niche insurance programs in the United States through its Commercial Specialty business segment.

Program Specialists / MGA's interested in learning more about the TMPAA can visit the Association website at www.targetmarkets.com , or contact Executive Director Ray Scotto at ray.scotto@targetmkts.com

A copy of the full report can be accessed on the TMPAA website at http://content.targetmkts.com/files/PB%20Study%20Results.pdf

For Media Inquiries contact:
Jack Roberts
New Street Group
jroberts@newstreetgroup.net
(610) 952-7313

Appalachian Underwriters, Inc. (AUI)

Appalachian Underwriters, Inc. (AUI) continues to expand, strengthen operations -completes acquisition of Executive Brokers Insurance Services

Oak Ridge, TN - Appalachian Underwriters, Inc., has obtained the assets of Executive Brokers Insurance Services -- a wholesale broker based in St. Peters, MO. The acquisition was effective October 3, 2011.

"The expansion for AUI with an office in Missouri will help with client penetration in the Midwest states. We look forward to working with Rhonda and the staff from Executive Brokers and are excited about the opportunity to service new agents," said Bob Arowood, President of Appalachian Underwriters.

Executive Brokers Insurance Services operated as a full service Managing General Agent and Surplus Lines Broker licensed in Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Missouri and Wisconsin. Office doors of the St. Peters office will remain open, becoming an official AUI satellite office with all former Executive Brokers staff still in place. With the acquisition, AUI strengthens its operations by adding a staff with years of underwriting and customer service experience. Adding an office to in Missouri will increase the availability and efficiency for agents directly appointed with AUI.

"We are very excited with the opportunity to become a satellite office for AUI. Becoming part of this company will allow us to continue to provide exceptional service to the Midwest region, backed with the strength and commitment of AUI," said Rhonda Henze, Vice President of Executive Brokers Insurance Services.

Agents previously appointed with Executive Brokers Insurance Services can be assured that AUI is ready, willing and able to meet the service needs for all business written prior to the acquisition. While business and renewals will continue to be marketed as placed, agents will have the opportunity to remarket as needed through AUI's extensive markets, programs and expertise.

Appalachian Underwriters, Inc. is a full-service MGA and wholesale insurance brokerage, providing independent agents a national 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.

Crump Insurance Services

Crump Seattle Expands Professional and Specialty Lines Expertise Valerie

Surprenant adds brokerage and underwriting experience to sophisticated team Seattle, WA - September 30, 2011. Valerie Surprenant has joined the production team in the Crump Seattle office as Vice President - Broker for Financial Services. Ms. Surprenant brings 19 years of experience in both underwriting and brokering business for financial and professional liability risks. She offers extensive expertise and insight to Crump Insurance Services and will help continue to build the professional lines department in the Seattle office.

Ms. Surprenant's responsibilities will include developing programs for a variety of clients in the area of Directors & Officers Liability, Errors & Omissions, Network Security / Privacy Liability, Employment Practices Liability and other miscellaneous coverages. She may be reached at 425.488.5054 or via email at Valerie.Surprenant@crumpins.com. "Valerie is a wonderful addition to our team and I am glad to be growing our professional business in the Northwest," says Garrett Koehn, President Northwestern U.S. "Her industry knowledge and experience as a broker will help continue to expand our retail and carrier relationships in the financial and professional lines."

Ms. Surprenant previously worked with CNA Specialty as an E&O underwriter. Prior to CNA, she worked as a Client Advisor in the FINPRO department of Marsh, Inc.

Additional information on these companies is available at www.crumpins.com.

NAS Insurance

NAS LAUNCHES NEW ENTERTAINMENT AND SPORTS DIVISION

Encino, CA - NAS Insurance Services launches new Entertainment and Sports Division

NAS Insurance appoints Jerid Schmickle as Senior Vice President of its newly launched Entertainment and Sports Division. He will spearhead the facility targeting risks within the Entertainment, Hospitality, Media and Sports industries. Jerid joins NAS from Allianz/Fireman's Fund where he was a Director of Underwriting. He has created numerous profitable programs throughout his career, while underwriting unique and unusual risks. NAS will be announcing new product launches in the near future.

Contact: Richard Robin (818) 808-4477

Ryan Specialty Group, LLC

Ryan Specialty Group, LLC Completes Acquisition of Specialist Lloyd's Insurer Jubilee Group Holdings Limited

September 23, 2011, Chicago, IL - Ryan Specialty Group, LLC (RSG) announced today that it has completed the acquisition of specialist Lloyd's insurer Jubilee Group Holdings Limited (Jubilee). Jubilee currently operates two active Syndicates at Lloyd's, a managing agency and specialist underwriting distribution and insurance service businesses.

RSG also announced a number of new Board and key executive appointments. Max Taylor, a former Chairman of Lloyd's of London and Deputy Chairman of Aon UK, has accepted the role as Non-Executive Chairman of Jubilee's Board. Johnny Rowell, Managing Director of Ryan Specialty Europe Limited, joins the Board and has been appointed Chief Executive. Miles Wuller joins the board as Chief Financial Officer. Jonathan Matthews, previously Chief Risk Officer of Liberty Syndicate Management Limited, has joined the Board and been appointed Chief Operating Officer. Malcolm McCaig, formerly a big four audit partner, has joined the Board as an Independent Non-Executive Director.

Patrick G. Ryan, Chairman and CEO of RSG, said, "Completing the Jubilee acquisition represents a significant development in the marketplace, and we are pleased to be part of this major event. Lloyd's and the London market are firmly established as global leaders in the specialty markets. We believe there is a real opportunity in the specialty markets and Jubilee's existing platform focuses on specialty insurance - specialties that we know. This acquisition will allow us to introduce and support new products and programs in global markets in a meaningful way. Jubilee's presence within Lloyd's uniquely enhances the execution of our overall strategy of offering and delivering preeminent providers of specialty products and services to the insurers, brokers and agents we serve."

Johnny Rowell notes, "The Jubilee platform provides an excellent foundation for developing a world class risk-bearing organization. We look forward to building on our long-standing ties in the Lloyd's community to enhance market access to brokers and agents seeking specialty product offerings."

Max Taylor adds, "I am delighted to have been asked to Chair the Board and to work with Pat Ryan again and the outstanding Jubilee team."

For more information on this release, contact: Chelsey Krull, (312)-784-6043, ckrull@ryansg.com.; Johnny Rowell, 011 44 207 444 4079, jrowell@ryansg.com or Johnny@ryansel.com

SIAA (Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance)

Assure Alliance Signs 100th Member Agency

Hampton, NH:- SIAA, Inc. - the largest Alliance of Independent Property & Casualty Insurance Agencies in the country - is proud to announce that Master Agency partner Assure Alliance of Spartanburg, South Carolina has signed its 100th Member Agency, adding to the national total that currently exceeds3800 signed members.

"We are proud to welcome Taylors Insurance Agency of Taylors, SC as the newest Independent Strategic Member of our Alliance," announced Assure AllianceOwner and CEO, Ben Taylor. "As a newly created independent agency, they stand to benefit from access to our strategic partners, as well our 58 years of experience in agency operations, 10 as an SIAA Certified Master Agency."

According to SIAA Chairman & CEO Jim Masiello, "With the signing of Taylors Insurance Agency, Assure Alliance has reached a significant milestone for which member Master Agencies across the country strive. On a national level, over 290 new members have been signed in 2011 to this point. It's this model of locally-based growth that affirms SIAA's standing as the premiere Alliance of independent insurance agencies in the country. Our model has worked for over 15 years now - through soft and hard markets, economic downturns, extreme competition - virtually all conditions."

Assure Alliance has been a partner Master Agency of SIAA since 2001. With territory covering South Carolina and Georgia, they are the largest independent agency group in the area.

SIAA (Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance) is a national alliance with billions in combined profitable premium. SIAA utilizes its collective strength through traditional and alternative market channels for the purpose of providing insurance consumers with competitive choices in addition to providing significant profit and equity appreciation opportunities for SIAA Member Agencies.

For more information on SIAA, visit www.siaa.net.

Vantage Agora

Vantage Agora Expands with New Partnership
Shawn Young Announced as Regional VP of Sales

CLEVELAND, OH - Vantage Agora, a global provider of back-office support services and custom IT solutions, today announced that it will be expanding its service area by adding Shawn Young as the new Regional VP of Sales.

Vantage Agora is expanding its services and products to insurance companies in the North East and Mid-Atlantic regions that want to streamline their business and improve their profitability.

"We are looking forward to this new partnership with Shawn. He is very skilled in working with clients and efficient in his recommendations. He is a great addition to the Vantage Agora team and will lead us into many new ventures with businesses in the New York, North East and Mid-Atlantic regions," said Sudhir Achar, CEO for Vantage Agora.

For over 20 years, Shawn Young has been offering insurance advice to companies and individuals, working with people from local businesses up to large conglomerates. He has a proven record of developing and implementing client-focused programs in niche commercial markets and analyzing the needs of high-risk customers with complex and challenging requirements.

"I am very impressed with the passion for excellence from the leadership team at Vantage Agora. The company has the right products for the right time in this market," commented Shawn Young.

"There will be tremendous expense pressure in any business, what I am focusing on is how to help companies make the best use of its resources without giving up any control - Vantage Agora is a win-win for any size company," Young added.

Visit Vantage Agora online (www.vantageagora.com) for more details about its services.

AIC Holdings

AIC Holdings appoints Robert G. Purdy as president and CEO of AIC Underwriters

Oak Ridge, TN - AIC Holdings announces the appointment of Robert G. Purdy to the position of president and CEO of AIC Underwriters, based in Philadelphia, PA. Mr. Purdy will be responsible for leading the underwriting, marketing and operations strategies for the AIC Underwriters' middle market workers' compensations business, including the specialty market of temporary staffing.

The principals of AIC Holdings, Bill and Bob Arowood, are excited to welcome Robert Purdy as the leader of this newly formed company. "Robert's proven leadership, strategic vision and extensive experience in the workers' compensation and middle market arena will be invaluable to the continued growth and development of this key market segment," says Bill Arowood.

With more than 26 years of experience in the insurance arena, Robert joins AIC Holdings from AmTrust Financial. Prior to joining AmTrust, he led the ACE Limited Workers' Compensation for ACE Complete, the online workers' compensation web product and middle market. Previous to ACE, he led the American International Group (AIG) Specialty Workers' Compensation Division. During his twelve years with AIG, Robert held various senior management positions including overall responsibility for the e-wC, Middle Market, Assigned Risk and USL&H segments. Prior to AIG, he spent 14 years with CIGNA Property & Casualty holding a succession of senior-level positions.

Robert has been a member of the Governing Board of the California, Delaware, New York, North Carolina and Pennsylvania Rating Bureaus. Additionally, he served on the Governing Board of the California Workers' Compensation Institute (CWCI). Robert currently serves on the board of directors of the American Society of Workers' Compensation Professional, Inc. (AMCOMP) and was a member of the American Staffing Association Advisory Board. He is a past member of the selection committee for Florida CHOICE Awards® for workers' compensation, presented by Choice Medical Management Services, LLC and serves on the board of trustees for Caldwell College in New Jersey. He is a frequent speaker at insurance industry conferences and has published numerous articles in industry trade publications.

Robert may be contacted at Robert.Purdy@aicunderwriters.com.

AIC Holdings is a multi-faceted group of insurance companies including Accident Insurance Company, Madison Insurance Company, US Administrator Claims and the newly formed AIC Underwriters. AIC Holdings is affiliated with the company Appalachian Underwriters, Inc.

For more information, please visit www.aicunderwriters.com.

2011 CONTRIBUTORS TO THE INSURANCE MARKETPLACE CYBERCAST

INSURANCE COMPANIES  |  MANAGING GENERAL AGENTS

PROGRAM ADMINISTRATORS  |  SURETY COMPANIES  |  WHOLESALE BROKERS