The Insurance Marketplace Cybercast - January 2014

Volume 72, January 2014

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New Products Enhancements Contact Changes Misc Company Info Archive

QQSolutions Expands Presence in California and Arizona andAppoints Insurance Industry Veteran Adam Meyersonas Regional Sales Manager

QQSolutions,the leading provider of cloud-based agency management systems for independent insurance agencies nationwide, announced the appointment of Adam Meyerson as Regional Sales Manager for California and Arizona. Based in Los Angeles, Meyerson will focus on the acquisition of new customers for the company's revolutionary cloud-based agency management system, QQCatalyst™.

Deerfield Beach, FL (PRWEB) January21, 2014 - QQSolutions, Inc, the leading provider of cloud-based insurance agency management systems for independent agencies nationwide, has appointed Adam Meyerson, as Regional Sales Manager for California and Arizona. Based in Los Angeles, Meyerson will be responsible for the sales of the company's cloud-based agency management system, QQCatalyst™ to insurance agencies in California and Arizona.

Born and raised in Southern California, Meyerson has held sales and marketing positionswith leading insurance carriers and insurance software companies, includingFSC, Bristol West Insurance, GMAC Insurance, and MAPFRE Insurance. Additionally, Meyersoncurrently serves as President of the Carrier Counsel as well as Master of Ceremonies for industry trade association, Brokers Independent Group, since its inception in 2009.

"Adam is the right person at the right time to introduce our revolutionary cloud-based agency management system, QQCatalyst, to independent insurance agents in California and Arizona," said Michael Stebel, Chief Operating Officer of QQSolutions. "With over fourteen years experience in the insurance industry,Adam'scareer spans the agency, carrier, and technology segments of the industry. He has an excellent understanding of the challenges facing insurance agents, what they need to do to grow and prosper, and how our industry-leading solutions can help."

For more information, visit the company's website at QQSolutions.com, or call QQSolutions at 1.800.940.6600.

About QQSolutions:
QQSolutions is the leading provider of cloud-based agency management systems for independent insurance agencies nationwide. The company's patent-pending QQCatalyst™ agency management system is incredibly easy to learn and to use. QQCatalyst is completely Web-based, mobile, and runs on any device with a browser. The QQCatalyst Marketplace provides insurance agencies with easy access to third-party apps that extend QQCatalyst's capabilities. QQSolutions' cloud-based auto insurance comparative rater, QQWebRater, provides real-time quotes from over 100 carriers in Florida and Texas. The company is committed to delivering easy-to-use, innovative solutions that help agencies increase revenue and retention, as well as to become more productive and efficient. QQSolutions backs up its products with the best customer service in the industry and consistently earns customer satisfaction scores of over 92%. The company is based in Deerfield Beach, Florida and has been recognized as one of the "25 Fastest-Growing Technology Companies" in South Florida by the South Florida Business Journal.

To learn more about QQSolutions and its products, please call the company at 1.800.940.6600, or visit the company's website at QQSolutions.com.

Markel honors child care centers with distinguished Safety 1st award

Richmond, VA, January 15, 2014 - Markel announced today that 40 child care centers have received the prestigious Safety 1st designation for 2013.

Each year, Markel's Safety 1st program recognizes policyholders who have shown an exceptional commitment to the safety of their employees and customers.

Michael Swain, Senior Loss Control Specialist for Markel Specialty, stated, "Child care centers must meet stringent criteria to qualify for the Safety 1st designation. They must have a proven safety record, undergo formal assessments and inspections, and participate in continuing education and certification programs. These facilities deserve to be recognized for keeping safety a top priority." The Markel Safety 1st Award recipients for 2013 are:

Little Texans Child Development Center
Carlton Academy Day School
Kidacious Academy Inc.
The Learning Center Preschool in Ocean View, LLC
Little People Learning Center, LLC
Lambs & Ivy School
Latchkey Child Services Inc.
Everything Grows Childcare and Learning Center, LLC
A Child's Center of Wonder & Discovery
Oakdale Academy
All 4 Kids
Cathy's Nursery School
Early Start Children's Center
Enrichment Workshop for Children, Inc.
Acorns to Oaks Day Care, Inc.
Johnston Child Care Center, LLC
Loving Care Children's Learning Center
Skylands Child Care Center
Galaxy Ranch School LLP
Ivy Hill Preschool
Bundles of Care
Peppermint Stick Preschool of Round Lake Inc.
Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Asylum Fund
Webster Child Care Collaborative, Inc.
Coppell Child Development Center
Moldovan Academy
Spell Well Montessori School
Play Groups School
St. David's Episcopal Day School
Noah's Ark Christian Academy
Jack in a Box Daycare & Learning Center
First Choice for Children
ABC Learning Center
Montessori Learning Center of Asheville
A+ Childcare & Learning Center
On My Way Childcare Center, LLC
Hopes Christian Child Care Services, Inc.
Williams After School Club, Inc.
Kiddie Ranch School
Exeter Day School

About Markel Specialty
Markel Specialty, a division of Markel Corporation, provides innovative insurance solutions for both commercial customers and individuals. Types of insurance offered include property & casualty, workers' compensation, accident, and programs featuring industry or risk-specific coverage packages.

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. Visit Markel Corporation on the web at www.markelcorp.com.

Markel honors youth camps and Boys & Girls clubs with distinguished Safety 1st award

Richmond, VA, January 15, 2014 - Markel announced today that 66 youth camps and 6 Boys & Girls Clubs of America have received the prestigious Safety 1st designation for 2013.

Each year, Markel's Safety 1st program recognizes policyholders who have shown an exceptional commitment to the safety of their employees and customers.

Michael Swain, Senior Loss Control Specialist for Markel Specialty, stated, "Camps and clubs must meet stringent criteria to qualify for the Safety 1st designation. They must have a proven safety record, undergo formal assessments and inspections, and participate in continuing education and certification programs. These facilities deserve to be recognized for keeping safety a top priority." The Markel Safety 1st Award recipients for 2013 are:

10+ year recipients
Camp Bear Track
Camp Highroad
Camp Ronald McDonald
Pompositticut Farm Day Camp
Setebaid Services, Inc.

6-9 year recipients
4-H Camp Middlesex
Alltogether Outdoors Summer Camps
Camp Fern
Camp Howe, Inc.
Camp Nicolet for Girls
Camp Odayin
Camp Watonka, Inc.
Camp Willow Run
Children's Association for Maximum Potential
Galileo Learning
Living Well Foundation
Melody Pines Day Camp
Our Kids Day Camp
Princeton University Sports Camps
Summer's Edge Day Camp & Tennis School
Tamarak Day Camp
Upward Bound Camp for Persons with Special Needs
Whippoorwill Farm Day Camp

2-5 year recipients
Boys & Girls Club of Northwest MS
C5 Youth Foundation of Southern California
Camp Aranzazu
Camp Coyote
Camp Doodles
Camp High Rocks
Camp Kostopulos
Camp Magical Moments, Cancer Camp for Kids
Camp Ma-He-Tu
Camp Olympia
Camp Ton-A-Wandah
Camps 'R' Us
Creative Themes Day Camp
Greenbrier County Youth Camp, Inc.
Happy Acres Ranch
HappyLand Day Camp
Inside Out, Inc.
Kingston's Camp
Longacre
Outpost Summer Camps
Rainbow Camp, Inc.
Red Pine Camp Foundation, Inc.
Sandy Hollow Day Camp
Sports Plus Day Camp
Theatre Arts Center NY
Tumbleweed Day Camp
Wonderland Camp Foundation

First year recipients
Boys & Girls Club of Beaufort County
Boys & Girls Club of Livingston County
Boys & Girls Club of Palm Beach County, Inc.
Boys & Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan
Camp Fire Inland Southern California
Camp Gilbert, Inc.
Camp Holiday Trails
Camp Marimeta for Girls
Camp Mont Shenandoah
Camp Natoma
Dreamcatcher Educators, LLC
Galena Lodge
Green River Preserve
Lake Placid Camp and Conference Center
Longfellow Sports Club
Mahomet Area Youth Club
Strong Rock Camp
Summer Art Academy
Summerkids
Tate's Day Camp
The Ballibay Camps
Variety The Children's Charity of Texas

QQ Solutions Receives Vendor of the Year Awards from Global Insurance Industry Standards Organization, ACORD

QQ Solutions, Inc, a leading provider of agency management systems for independent insurance agencies nationwide, has receivedVendor of the Year awards from ACORD, the insurance industry standards organization. The company was awarded ACORD's "2013 ACORD AL3 Download Vendor of the Year Award, Percentage Growth" and "2013 Early Adopter Award - Forms."

Deerfield Beach, FL (PRWEB) January7, 2014 - QQ Solutions, Inc, the leading provider of cloud-based insurance agency management systems for independent agencies nationwidewas recently recognized by ACORD® as a 2013 Vendor of the Year, receiving two awards. QQ Solutions received the "2013 ACORD AL3 Download Vendor of the Year Award, Percentage Growth" and "2013 Early Adopter Award - Forms" awards from the global insurance industry standards organization.

"We are honored to be recognized by ACORD for our growth," said Mark Malis, CEO of QQ Solutions. "QQ Solutions is committed to implementing ACORD standardsin our insurance agency management systems, including AL3 carrier downloads and ACORD forms. Our incredibly easy-to-use cloud-based agency management system, QQ Catalyst™, supports downloads with hundreds of insurance companies, eliminating data entry and increasing productivity. Furthermore, QQ Catalyst generates hundreds of ACORD forms, and was designed from the outset to automate the processing of forms to streamline agency workflow."

For more information about QQ Solutions, its cloud-based agency management system, QQ Catalyst, and its support for ACORD standards, visit the company's website at QQSolutions.com, or call QQ Solutions at 1.800.940.6600.

About QQ Solutions, Inc.:
Named one of the "25 Fastest-Growing Technology Companies" in South Florida by the South Florida Business Journal, QQ Solutions is a software-as-a-service (SaaS) company that provides feature-rich, affordable solutions that help independent insurance agencies grow revenues, enhance productivity and operate more efficiently. One of the largest providers of insurance agency management systems for independent insurance agencies, QQ Solutions supports over 4,700 agencies, representing over 23,000 users nationwide. The company's mission is to help independent insurance agencies compete in the digital world by leveraging the latest cloud technology, social media, digital marketing and real-time services.

To learn more about QQ Solutions products, please call the company at 1.800.940.6600, or visit the QQ Solutions website at QQSolutions.com.

NSM Insurance Group acquires American Collectors Insurance, a premier Collector Car Insurance Program.

New York, New York., Jan. 7, 2014 -- The acquisition of American Collectors Insurance triples the collector car business NSM Insurance Group currently insures.

American Collectors Insurance has been insuring Collector Cars and other collectibles for over 40 years. American Collectors has earned the reputation for in depth knowledge of collector cars and other collectibles, offering broad coverage, agreed value, inflation guard protection and unmatched personal service.

"It's always gratifying to advise family owned businesses as they evolve to the next level of their development," said Jason Murgio, CEO, Merger & Acquisition Services. Inc., "It was a pleasure working with NSM's senior management team on their second acquisition of a collector automobile managing general agency." (Merger & Acquisition Services advised NSM on their acquisition of Condon & Skelly Collectible Vehicle Insurance in 2010.)

NSM Insurance Group is the national leader of insurance program administration with 8 offices strategically placed across the country from New Jersey to California. Dynamically growing both organically and via acquisition, completing five acquisitions in the past three years.

"As a collector myself," said Geof McKernan, CEO, NSM Insurance Group, "I am very pleased to be associated with such a top notch business. We are looking forward to growing and expanding American Collectors."

NSM Insurance Group underwrites over twenty admitted and non-admitted insurance programs nationally in very specific niche markets.

NSM Insurance Group's unique model of blending innovative marketing, profitable underwriting discipline, and state of the art back-room processes, creates a corporate culture of profitability and growth. The Company's insurance programs include Collector Cars, Coastal Condominium Associations, Social Service, Hospitality, Professional Liability for Lawyers & Dentists, Construction and Workers Compensation.

Merger & Acquisition Services, Inc. is a specialist investment, advisory and financial services Firm serving the insurance and reinsurance industries, with offices in New York City, Hartford Connecticut and Atlanta Georgia. Founded in 1999, the company provides investment banking and insurance services, including; merger & acquisition advisory, capital raising, valuations, program placements / fronting, and reinsurance advisory*. To learn more about Merger & Acquisition Services, please visit the company's website at http://www.maservices.com.

*All investment banking services are performed by registered representatives of Merger & Acquisition Capital Services, Inc., a registered broker-dealer and member FINRA / SIPC.

Philadelphia Insurance Hires Vice President to Oversee IT Project Management

Elaine Prutzman brings 25+ years of experience to new position at PHLY

Bala Cynwyd, PA, January 8, 2014 - Philadelphia Insurance Companies (PHLY), a leading property and casualty insurance company for niche markets, announces the hiring of Elaine Prutzman as Vice President of IT Service Delivery.

Ms. Prutzman will be responsible for the Project Management Office functions of portfolio management, methodology, project execution and governance for major business/technology change initiatives. She brings more than 25 years of experience to PHLY, most recently serving as Vice President of Project Management Office for Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company.

Ms. Prutzman holds a B.S. in Business Administration from Warren National University. She received her Project Management Professional (PMP) license from the Project Management Institute in 2001 and has a Six Sigma Black Belt certification.

About Philadelphia Insurance
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 “A+” for counterparty credit and financial strength by Standard & Poor’s, is nationally recognized as a member of Ward's Top 50, National Underwriter’s Top 100, and one of the Top 150 Workplaces in America. The organization has 48 offices strategically located across the United States to provide superior service. For more information, please visit www.PHLY.com.

SIAA Welcomes Steve Tombarelli National Director of Business Insurance Advantage

Tombarelli to spearhead new commercial division at SIAA

January 8, 2014 - Hampton, NH: SIAA (Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance) - the largest alliance of Independent Property & Casualty Insurance Agencies in the U.S. - has created a new management position based in their Hampton, NH headquarters, National Director of Business Insurance Advantage.

"We are pleased to welcome Steve Tombarelli to our organization in this role. His considerable experience with Travelers Insurance and The Hartford, focusing on Small Commercial business, will enable him to succeed as we launch this new division in support of SIAA Member Agencies," stated Matt Masiello, executive vice president and chief operating officer.

"We recognize that small commercial lines are becoming the new focus for Independent Insurance Agents, and a continued focus for our Strategic Partner Companies; creating this internal division and bringing Steve on-board reflects SIAA's commitment to Member Agents' success with this target market."

Mr. Tombarelli's career has been concentrated in the insurance industry, most recently with Travelers Insurance where he was Regional Sales Director of Select Commercial Business, responsible for small commercial business lines throughout New England. Mr. Tombarelli had been with Travelers since 2008; prior to that, he maintained responsibility for small commercial business sales throughout most of New England for The Hartford from 2005 - 2008.

Masiello went on to say, "Steve is the right person for this job; he will work with many of our Member Agents across the country to enable them to write more small commercial lines business. He knows the market, he understands how our Strategic Partner Companies operate, and he has worked extensively with Independent Insurance Agents in his positions with Travelers and The Hartford. I look forward to seeing him flourish in this new and dynamic role."

Mr. Tombarelli is a graduate of Merrimack College in North Andover, MA. He currently resides in North Andover.

The Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance (SIAA) is a national alliance of over 4,700 signed independent insurance agency members generating hundreds of millions in new premium business annually. SIAA is dedicated to the creation, retention and growth of the Independent Insurance Agency distribution system. For more information on SIAA visit www.siaa.net

Align Financial Forms Catalytic Holdings, LLC to Merge its Property Catastrophe Business with Western RE Managers

Catalytic is combining the property catastrophe businesses of Align General and Western RE to create one of the largest writers of Earthquake/ DIC insurance in the U.S.

SAN DIEGO, JANUARY 6, 2013 - Align Financial Group, LLC. (Align) today announced that it has formed Catalytic Holdings, LLC (Catalytic or the Company); a specialist property catastrophe underwriting manager. Catalytic has acquired the property catastrophe business of Align General Insurance Agency, LLC and 100% of the stock of Western Re Managers Insurance Services, Inc. (Western RE). The Company is merging the existing teams and businesses and plans to acquire additional property catastrophe companies and assets over time to create a major new property catastrophe insurance industry player.

"The Align and Western RE underwriting teams share a desire to create an extraordinary property catastrophe underwriting business that will deliver an enhanced value proposition to our wholesale customers and carrier partners," said Kieran Sweeney, CEO of Align and Catalytic.

"We wanted to take our business to the next level in partnership with like-minded, high integrity people," states Ian Fitt, CEO of Western RE and Vice Chairman of Catalytic. "We are excited that we achieved that goal and, in the process, we have created the most dynamic team in the DIC market. We have combined over 42 years of brand integrity with access to the capital and transactional skills we will need to build an even more significant property catastrophe insurance business going forward," He continued.

Catalytic represents leading syndicates at Lloyd's of London as well as international and domestic carrier partners to write stand-alone Commercial Earthquake DIC and Terrorism risks. The Company has 25 employees and offices in San Diego and Los Angeles, California and Chicago, Illinois. Former Collins Associates CEO and Guy Carpenter Americas chairman Pat Denzer has joined Catalytic as Chairman of the Board of Directors.

About Align
Align Financial Group, LLC. is a Delaware domiciled insurance holding company headquartered in San Diego, California. The Company owns Align General Insurance Agency, LLC, which began operating as a general agency/ program underwriting manager in early 2005. Align formed Personable Holdings, Inc. as a specialty non-standard auto insurance provider to independent agents in 2011 and currently writes Commercial Property, Construction Risks, Commercial Transportation and Worker's Compensation insurance programs on an admitted and surplus lines basis on behalf of leading commercial lines insurers.

About Western Re
Western RE Managers Insurance Services, Inc. ("Western RE") is a California domiciled insurance agency that was incorporated in 1971. The Company is headquartered in Los Angeles, California with an underwriting office in Chicago, Illinois. Western RE has spent more than 40 years building a reputation as a leading specialist Commercial Earthquake DIC market in the U.S. and currently represents leading syndicates at Lloyd's of London and Sirius Insurance Company.

SACCOMANDO JOINS RUSSELL BOND

Paul Saccomando has joined Russell Bond as Operations Manager. He has over 30 years of property and casualty insurance experience in underwriting, operations, management, compliance, project management, marketing, product management and product development at a large and a medium size insurance company.

Paul earned both a Bachelor of Science and MBA in Finance and Management from Canisius College. In addition, he holds the Chartered Property & Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), Associate is Underwriting (AU), and Associate in Automation Management (AAM) insurance designations. Paul has also served as Chairman of the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies (NAMIC) Personal Lines Committee.

Russell Bond & Co., Inc. is an Insurance Wholesaler headquartered in Buffalo NY. Founded in 1950 the firm maintains binding authorities and brokerage access for Standard, Specialty, and Surplus Lines through admitted and non-admitted markets for clients throughout the USA.

The firm also maintains offices in Hamilton, NJ and Westfield, MA.

Jimcor Agencies Admitted Division Appoints Hudson as Brokerage Specialist

MONTVALE, N.J. - Jimcor Agencies Divisional Manager, Alan Belthoff, announced the appointment of Christopher A. Hudson to the position of Brokerage Specialist. "Chris has over 13 years of experience in the industry and is a great addition to the Admitted Team" stated Belthoff.

Previously Hudson has worked with carriers, MGA's and agents as an account executive, vice president, and insurance consultant. A licensed P/C Broker in NJ, Hudson has experience with all Property Casualty lines with a heavy concentration on Umbrella business.

Headquartered in Montvale, NJ, Jimcor Agencies is an Excess and Surplus Lines Wholesaler with seven offices located throughout New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Massachusetts, and has the ability to service other states around the country. Jimcor's goal is to provide clients with superior service and access to markets through its Online Systems, Binding Authority, Admitted Markets units or through the Brokerage Division (Jimcor Select Risk), allowing agents to successfully write more business.

Alan G. Belthoff can be reached via email at abelthoff@jimcor.com.

QQ Solutions Launches QQ Catalyst Marketplace, Showcasing QQ Catalyst Compatible Applications For Insurance Agencies Developed By Independent Software Vendors Worldwide

QQ Solutions, Inc, a leading provider of agency management systems for independent insurance agencies nationwide, has launched the QQ Catalyst™ Marketplace. The QQ Catalyst Marketplace is a website that showcases and provides access to software applications for insurance agencies from QQ Solutions' independent software vendor partners, all of which are compatible with the company's cloud-based agency management system, QQ Catalyst.

Deerfield Beach, FL (PRWEB) December 9, 2013 - QQ Solutions, Inc, a leading provider of insurance agency management systems for independent agencies nationwide, has launched the QQ Catalyst™ Marketplace. The QQ Catalyst Marketplace is a website that showcases and provides access to software applications for insurance agencies from Independent Software Vendors (ISVs), all of which work with the company's cloud-based agency management system, QQ Catalyst. ISVs from the U.S. and other countries are developing applications that interoperate with QQ Catalyst and provide insurance agencies with new tools to help them grow their businesses, provide better customer service, and become more productive. The QQ Catalyst Marketplace provides insurance agencies with easy access to these resources.

First released in early 2013, over 480 insurance agencies with over 1,500 users - all of which are new customers - are now using the revolutionary cloud-based QQ Catalyst agency management system to automate their operations, provide better service to their clients and grow their revenues.

One of the unique aspects of QQ Catalyst is that ISVs can build applications that securely interoperate with QQ Catalyst using its robust API. The API allows software developers to build apps that work with QQ Catalyst and securely access Catalyst's client, policy and other information in the cloud via an extensive set of API methods. An API Web portal and developer sandbox are provided along with complete documentation and sample source code for developers to use in building their apps.

The new QQ Catalyst Marketplace provides an online showcase for ISVs to market their applications, which work with and extend QQ Catalyst's capabilities. Examples of these applications include mobile apps, consumer portals, document management tools, and marketing automation.

Michael Stebel, Chief Operating Officer of QQ Solutions stated, "Through our ISV partners, we're building an ecosystem around QQ Catalyst that will greatly expand the range of solutions available to insurance agencies. By making QQ Catalyst the core of their technology strategy, insurance agencies will be able to select from a broad scope of tools from best-in-class software providers. The QQ Catalyst Marketplace will help them to better compete in today's insurance marketplace."

ISV Partner Quotes:

Torey Maerz, Founder & CEO of Rocket Referrals said, "QQ Catalyst is an innovative agency management system with a slick API that allows us to quickly build new and creative solutions for our customers. Unlike other agency management systems we have encountered, QQ Catalyst is a leader in providing a solid platform for developers to extend their core offering with unique and powerful tools. By leveraging our partnership with QQ Solutions, our customers can virtually manage Rocket Referral's entire product without leaving QQ Catalyst, saving time, reducing errors, and increasing the value of both Rocket Referrals and QQ Catalyst."
Matt Aaron, Co-Founder & CEO of the Insurance Agent mobile application said, "QQ Solutions immediately understood how working together could mutually benefit our respective clients. The ability for our product to interoperate with QQ allows agencies to push home & auto policy information, including images of insurance ID cards, directly to customers via the agency branded mobile app. This is huge for agencies. After twenty-five years, QQ Solutions is still entrepreneurial at heart, and eager to execute for the customer. That's the kind of company you want to work with."
Rolando Milian of Ferret Software, Inc. stated, "Ferret Tools for Outlook allows QQ Catalyst customers to upload and save email and attachments directly from Outlook to a client or policy in QQ Catalyst, even when Catalyst is not running. Through our partnership with QQ Solutions, we can help QQ Catalyst customers minimize E&O risk exposure, improve agent effectiveness, and appropriately track client communications by ensuring that critical information is centrally stored, shared amongst those authorized, easily retrievable, accurate and complete."
Nathan Waite, Chief Sales Officer of SEMCAT Corporation said, "SEMCAT is proud to support the QQ Catalyst Marketplace. The integration between our two platforms has proven amazingly helpful for our hundreds of mutual clients and we're excited to expand this reach together. QQ Solutions is helping drive insurance industry innovation and we're proud to be considered a valuable and pioneering partner."
Laird Rixford, Vice President of Products & Marketing for ITC said, "By integrating TurboRater and AgencyBuzz with QQ Solutions' management products, we give our mutual customers the ability to grow their agencies using technology that is the best in its class."

Independent insurance agents interested in learning about applications that work with the QQ Catalyst agency management system are invited to visit the QQ Catalyst Marketplace at: QQSolutions.com/marketplace.

ISVs interested in becoming QQ Catalyst API partners and having their applications showcased in the QQ Catalyst Marketplace should visit the API portal link to: QQSolutions.com/solutions/agencymanagement/qqcatalyst/api.aspx for more information.

QQ Solutions strives to delight its customers by exceeding their expectations in product quality, customer service, training & support, and by meeting their evolving needs through a program of continuous product development and improvement incorporating the best available technologies. The company's headquarters is located in Deerfield Beach, Florida, where the company employs 65 people in software development, product management, product support, professional services, marketing, sales, IT, finance, and administration.

To learn more about QQ Solutions products, please call the company at 1.800.940.6600, or visit the QQ Solutions website at QQSolutions.com.

Jeff Evans becomes newest member of the GW Global Insurance team as VP of the Southwest Region.

DATELINE: HOUSTON, TX
GW Global Insurance, LLC has recently hired Jeff Evans to lead their team in the Southwest Region of the US. Jeff will be located in their new Houston, Texas office. “Jeff has 20 years of experience in the insurance industry successfully managing products and service operations, says Dan Boisvert, President and CEO of GW Global. “He’s a Texas boy, he grew up there, he knows the area and the people very well. We think having Jeff on board fits perfectly into our culture of personalized products and service.”

“The full suite of products GW Global offers our client’s will help those personally and professionally stay covered. We’ll be able to reach out globally to design a personalized solution for each client. This is nothing like what is being done today”, says Jeff Evans. “The status quo is to put clients into a solution that is already pre-canned, pre-packaged. We look at every problem as a challenge to create a solution that fits exactly what they need. I’m very excited to be on board with such an innovative approach.”

GW Global works with a global network of carriers, reinsurers and service providers to create solutions that have the appropriate structure, are cost efficient and are effective long term. Their products include; Occupational Accident, Personal Accident, Healthcare Cash Flow Protection, Healthcare Risk Transfer, High Limit Disability, Cyber Liability and Professional Services.

Mr. Boisvert and his team have 80 plus years of collective experience in the global insurance markets, with the credibility and relationships to execute the right solutions for the right client. GW Global has offices in Marshfield, MA, Dallas, Austin & Houston, TX and will soon be opening in London, England and San Francisco, CA.

For more information please contact:
Dan Boisvert at 617-834-6008,br> or Jeff Evans at 713-294-5952

R-T Specialty announces completion of merger with Westrope

December 2, 2013, CHICAGO, IL - Ryan Specialty Group, LLC (RSG), on behalf of R-T Specialty, LLC (RT), is pleased to announce that subsequent to the initial announcement of the Westrope merger on November 1, 2013, all closing conditions and required approvals have been met, the transaction closed effective December 1, 2013. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

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

About Ryan Specialty Group, LLC and R-T Specialty, LLC
Ryan Specialty Group, LLC is a global holding company which includes wholesale broker R-T Specialty, LLC, 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 and www.rtspecialty.com

About Westrope
Westrope ranked 7th in Business Insurance's Top 10 Wholesale Brokers in the U.S. Formed in 1992 by Kevin Westrope, the company is headquartered in Kansas City and has a national presence concentrated in the Midwest, Southwest and Southeast. www.westrope.com

SIAA Names Jeff Chidester Training and Learning Manager

November 21, 2013 - Hampton, NH: The Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance (SIAA) - the largest national alliance of independent insurance agencies - has named Jeff Chidester as its new Training and Learning Manager.

In this position, Mr. Chidester is responsible for the development and administration of membership training programs through the SIAA Training and Learning Center. He holds over 15 years of experience as a training professional, including the development and delivery of numerous high-quality training methodologies and business analytics.

"We are fortunate to have someone with Jeff's experience and skills to oversee the rapid growth of our recently launched Training and Learning Center," said Matt Masiello, Chief Operations Officer of SIAA. "He brings the highest level of facilitation and communications skills, which will ultimately serve to ready our Member Agencies for success in today's changing and competitive landscape. Bringing Jeff on-board underscores SIAA's commitment to its Member Agencies' profitability and growth."

Before joining SIAA, Mr. Chidester worked with Scribe Software as a training manager, where he was responsible for the redesign and expansion of their online training program. Prior to Scribe, he worked for Newmarket International as an educational development expert, where he was responsible for online course design and delivery for both customers and employees.

A New Hampshire native, Chidester holds a training instructor certificate from the University of Illinois, as well as numerous other certifications related to course design and instruction.

Industry Leading Features and Innovative Design Result in Over 400 New Customers Now Subscribing to the QQ Catalyst™ Insurance Agency Management System in its First Nine Months

QQ Solutions reports that over 400 independent insurance agencies - all of which are new customers - are now using QQ Catalyst™. The state-of-the-art cloud-based insurance agency management system was first launched in January of this year and combines market-leading features with an innovative design to enhance agency productivity and growth.

DEERFIELD BEACH, FL (PRWEB) October 21, 2013 - QQ Solutions, Inc, one of the largest providers of insurance agency management systems for independent agencies, announced that over 400 independent insurance agencies - all of which are new customers - are now using the company's new cloud-based insurance agency management system, QQ Catalyst, since its launch earlier this year. This very high adoption rate demonstrates that the new SaaS based system meets the current and future needs of independent insurance agencies nationwide. The company is also readying a major update to Catalyst, version 2.5, which will be released at the end of this month.

QQ Catalyst is an innovative cloud-based insurance agency management system that has changed the game for independent insurance agencies. Visually engaging and highly intuitive, Catalyst makes everyday agency tasks simple, quick and error-free. With Catalyst, agents can choose to receive step-by-step guidance to complete tasks, from adding a contact and creating a new policy to renewing an existing policy. In addition, its patent pending "Stack" provides an easy way for agents to manage interruptions, pause what they are working on, do something else and then return to it at a later time. When daily interruptions occur, users can pick right back up where they left off, even if they switch to another device. Catalyst works on any device with a modern browser, including PCs, Macs, iPads, iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Surface tablets, Chromebooks, and other mobile devices. When an agency subscribes to Catalyst, there's nothing to install. Users only need a broadband Internet connection.

Michael Stebel, Chief Operating Officer of QQ Solutions said, "The industry's adoption of Catalyst has been breathtaking. Over 400 new customers have now subscribed to Catalyst. We believe that Catalyst is the best management system for most independent agencies, and, we have backed it up with the industry's best on-boarding and support programs. Starting in November, we'll be migrating existing QQ Evolution and QuickFile customers that want to upgrade. Catalyst is fueling our growth, just as it is for our customers. In response, we're adding more software developers, support technicians, marketing, and salespeople to meet the growing demand."

For more information about QQ Catalyst, visit the company's website at QQSolutions.com, or call QQ Solutions at 1.800.940.6600.

About QQ Solutions, Inc.:
Named one of the "25 Fastest-Growing Technology Companies" in South Florida by the South Florida Business Journal, QQ Solutions is a software-as-a-service (SaaS) company that provides feature-rich, affordable solutions that help independent insurance agencies grow revenues, enhance productivity and operate more efficiently. One of the largest providers of insurance agency management systems for independent insurance agencies, QQ Solutions supports over 22,000 users nationwide. The company's mission is to help independent insurance agencies compete in the digital world by leveraging the latest cloud technology, social media, digital marketing and real-time services.

The company's headquarters is located in Deerfield Beach, Florida, where the company employs 65 people in software development, product management, product support, professional services, marketing, sales, IT, finance, and administration. To learn more about QQ Solutions products, please call the company at 1.800.940.6600, or visit the QQ Solutions website at QQSolutions.com.

Belthoff Joins Jimcor Agencies as Divisional Manager

MONTVALE, N.J. – Jimcor Agencies’ CEO, Coryn Thalmann, announced the appointment of Alan G. Belthoff to the position of Division Manager early last week.

“Alan brings with him over 25 years of industry experience and leadership in growing and enhancing business,” stated Thalmann. “We are excited to take advantage of his management, marketing and industry experience. His concentration on technology and workflow management is a great fit for where Jimcor is at this time and where we see ourselves going in the near future.”

Belthoff has worked with international carriers in various positions always with increasing levels of responsibility. At Jimcor Agencies, Belthoff will join the management team and work closely with department heads to help maximize production and increase revenue.

Headquartered in Montvale, NJ, Jimcor Agencies is an Excess and Surplus Lines Wholesaler with seven offices located throughout New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Massachusetts, and has the ability to service other states around the country. Jimcor’s goal is to provide clients with superior service and access to markets through its Online Systems, Binding Authority, Admitted Markets units or through the Brokerage Division (Jimcor Select Risk), allowing agents to successfully write more business.

Alan G. Belthoff can be reached via email at abelthoff@jimcor.com.

Philadelphia Insurance Companies Donates $70,000 for Typhoon Relief

PHLY, Chairman Jamie Maguire, and Maguire Foundation send aid through the Red Cross

Bala Cynwyd, PA, November 13, 2013 - Philadelphia Insurance Companies (PHLY), a leading property/casualty and professional liability insurance company for niche markets and its leadership are donating $70,000 to the American Red Cross to provide relief to the people affected by Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines.

“We are saddened to hear the news and see the images of devastation and loss in the Philippines,” shared Bob O’Leary, President and CEO of Philadelphia Insurance Companies. “We commend our partners at the Red Cross for their continued commitment to disaster relief and pledge our support to their efforts.”

Philadelphia Insurance is pledging $50,000 and will match all employee donations for relief efforts. PHLY’s Founder and Chairman Emeritus James J. Maguire will donate $10,000 from the Maguire Foundation and PHLY’s Chairman Jamie Maguire will donate another $10,000 to the Red Cross.

“We are grateful for the support Philadelphia Insurance Companies has provided in times of disaster, both close to home and internationally,” said Judge Renee Cardwell Hughes, CEO of the American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania.

PHLY donated $50,000 to the Red Cross in May to aid Midwest tornado victims and in 2012 partnered with members of the Tokio Marine Group to donate more than $195,000 to the Red Cross following Hurricane Sandy. The Company and its employees also raised $129,000 for the Red Cross Haiti relief fund and more than $195,000 for the Red Cross Japan tsunami and earthquake relief fund. Philadelphia Insurance Companies has donated more than $14 million to charitable causes and organizations since 1980.

New Empire Group Awarded TMPAA Best Practice Honors

The Target Markets Program Administrators Association (TMPAA) awarded New Empire Group the Association's Best Practice Designation at their recent 13th Annual Summit in Scottsdale, AZ. Five other administrators were also recognized for their Best Practice recertification.

David Springer, TMPAA President and NIP Group President & CEO stated, "The TMPAA continues to serve the unique needs of program specialists. Promoting best practices in programs is a critical element the Association brings to this industry segment. The Best Practice 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 award New Empire Group this designation."

"New Empire Group is honored to be recognized and awarded the TMPAA Best Practices Designation," indicated Deborah K. Mackoul, New Empire Group President & COO. "I highly recommend that my fellow Program Administrators accept the challenge and apply for the designation. It's a very enlightening experience that will benefit your agency, your insured's and your credibility with the carriers with whom you partner. We're proud to be a premier Program Administrator committed to excellence."

ARA Insurance, Glatfelter Insurance Group, Synergy Professional Associates, ORYX Insurance Brokerage and Venture Insurance Programs were also recognized for having recertified their Best Practice status.

The Association's 13th Annual Summit was attended by over 750 program business professionals including representatives from over 190 Agencies and the group's 53 Program Carriers. Attendees had the privilege of hearing a Keynote address from former Hewlett-Packard Chairwoman and CEO, Carly Fiorina and an Industry address by Zurich's CEO North America Commercial, Mike Foley. The Target Markets Program Administrators Association's 2014 Mid Year Meeting is scheduled for May 12-14 in Baltimore, MD.

Information about New Empire Group can be found at www.newempiregroup.com.

Program Administrators / MGAs interested in learning more about the TMPAA, can visit the Association website at www.targetmarkets.com or contact Ray Scotto, Executive Director at (877) 347-5700 or ray.scotto@targetmkts.com.

R-T Specialty, LLC enters definitive agreement to merge with Westrope

November 1, 2013, CHICAGO, IL - Ryan Specialty Group, LLC (RSG), on behalf of R-T Specialty, LLC (RT), announced today that it has reached a definitive agreement to merge with Westrope, the 7th largest wholesale broker in the U.S. Formed by Kevin Westrope in 1992, Westrope has a national presence with concentrations in the Midwest, Southeast and Southwest. Its long standing strength in property and casualty is complemented by workers' compensation, professional liability, transportation, agri-business and life science expertise. It also offers commercial binding authority through two divisions, WGA and WIMFL.

Patrick G. Ryan, Chairman and CEO of RSG says, "This landmark transaction combines the strength of two major forces in the wholesale industry. Westrope enhances RT's presence in important geographies and products, as well as expands its binding authority capabilities. This move substantially strengthens our management team, our intellectual capital and our ability to execute on behalf of our clients. We are delighted to partner with this impressive group, and look forward to many years of success together."

RT President and CEO, Timothy W. Turner, adds, "Westrope's national presence and strong retail and market relationships complement and enhance RT's existing capabilities. With Kevin Westrope and his team of talented brokers and support personnel joining RT, together we will provide best in class service to our customers and carriers."

Kevin Westrope, President and CEO, says, "We look forward to partnering with RT, the fastest growing wholesale brokerage in the country. Our sales culture, producer development expertise and commitment to client service can be leveraged by the combined firm to provide a win-win for clients and carriers everywhere."

The transaction close is subject to normal approvals. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Macquarie Capital acted as financial advisor to Westrope.

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

About Ryan Specialty Group, LLC and R-T Specialty, LLC Ryan Specialty Group, LLC is a global holding company which includes wholesale broker R-T Specialty, LLC, 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 and www.rtspecialty.com

About Westrope
Westrope is an independent, privately-owned wholesale broker, ranking 7th in Business Insurance's Top 10 Wholesale Brokers in the U.S. Formed in 1992 by Kevin Westrope, the company is headquartered in Kansas City and has a national presence concentrated in the Midwest, Southwest and Southeast. www.westrope.com

The TMPAA Awards 28 CPL Designations

Wilmington, DE (October 28, 2013)-The Target Markets Program Administrator Association (TMPAA) awarded 28 of its members the Certified Programs Leader (CPL) Designation during their 13th Annual Summit in Scottsdale, AZ last week.

Recipients of the CPL Designation completed and passed required Target University courses, and met program and industry experience expectations set out by the Association. "The mission of Target University and the CPL Designation is to promote best practices in program administration, and recognize the specialized skill sets of program administrators," stated David Springer, TMPAA President. "We are very happy that the Designation has been embraced by our members. The large number of CPLs awarded at our Summit speaks to its value."

CPL Designation recipients included Debra Anglin, Markel; Domenic Antinucci, Liberty International Underwriters; Eric Arthur and Katie Stephens, Fulcrum Programs; Adam Besnard, Besnard & Associates Insurance; Sim Bridges, Chuck Bushong and Faye Leto, Coastal Insurance Underwriters; Jeremy Bryant, Allegiant Programs Group; Bonnie Coverstone, Brieanna Leaken and Jeremiah O'Donovan, O'Donovan & Associates, Inc.; Susan DeCarlo, James Flynn, Erin McBride, Brian Parks and Michael Thabet, Distinguished Programs Group; Laura Gaffney, Liberty Mutual Commercial Insurance Programs; Christopher Fell, K & B Underwriters; Jim O'Connell, B&B Programs; Michael Oliver, Axis Insurance; Dan Rieden, Platinum Program Managers & Ins. Services; John Solari, Glatfelter Insurance Group; Heidi Strommen, ProHost USA; Lisa Tancioco, Blue River Underwriters; William Thompson, National Specialty Underwriters; Alek Turko, 5 Star Specialty Programs and Steve Zastrow, ARA Insurance.

"My involvement with the University and the CPL Designation continues to be a great honor," indicated Greg Thompson, TMPAA Past President and University Dean. "All of our CPL recipients demonstrated their mastery in crucial aspects of successful program administration and have a solid resume of work in programs. I am proud to be associated with them."

The Target Markets Program Administrators Association is an organization dedicated to the unique challenges of insurance program administration. The TMPAA's mission is to help Program Administrators conduct their business more efficiently, with greater proficiency and profitability. The organization provides its membership with an array of business and educational services including access to program carrier decision makers, Best Practice information and recognition, Target University, program marketing, Target Programs (online portal), Industry studies and two annual member meetings.

The Association's recent Summit was held in Scottsdale, AZ, October 21-23. Details of this event are now available on the TMPAA website. The 2014 Mid Year Meeting is scheduled for May 12-14 in Baltimore, MD.

Program Administrator / MGA's interested in learning more about the TMPAA can visit the Association website at www.targetmarkets.com or contact Ray Scotto - Executive Director at (877) 347-5700 or ray.scotto@targetmkts.com.

Bryan Sanders to Succeed John Latham as President of Markel Wholesale

Richmond, VA, October 10, 2013 — F. Michael Crowley, President and Co-Chief Operating Officer of Markel Corporation (NYSE: MKL), has announced that John Latham is stepping down as President of Markel Wholesale effective December 31, 2013 and will be succeeded by Bryan Sanders. Sanders, who currently serves as Executive Vice President of Markel’s Wholesale division, joined Markel with the acquisition of Alterra Capital Holdings Limited. Latham will transition to a consultative role, active with Markel, working out of Markel’s Plano, TX, regional office. This transition marks the next step in a long and distinguished career in insurance. Sanders will remain based in Markel’s home office in Richmond, VA, and report to Crowley.

Bryan Sanders has 32 years of insurance industry experience and has held leadership positions with Alterra Specialty, Max Specialty, Hilb Rogal and Hobbs (HRH) Company, and MacDuff Underwriters, Inc. He graduated from Kent State University and began his career with Aetna Casualty and Surety Company as an underwriter in 1981. Sanders holds both CIC and ARM designations.

John Latham has had two tours with Markel, from 1989 until 1991 and from 2002 until the present. Latham is well known in the excess and surplus lines community, having held executive posts at Gen Re and Colony Insurance Group and as past president of one of the industry’s premier trade organizations, NAPSLO (National Association of Professional Surplus Lines Offices). Latham has been instrumental in the reorganization and expansion of Markel’s excess and surplus lines business.

“All of us at Markel congratulate John Latham on his long and distinguished career. We appreciate John’s many contributions to Markel’s success and look forward to working with him on a variety of high-impact projects,” commented Mike Crowley. “Bryan Sanders brings energy, experience, and vision to this leadership position. Bryan’s integrity and track record of success reflect the Markel Style, and he and John have done an extraordinary job integrating the Alterra staff and products into the Markel Wholesale operation. Bryan’s appointment should reassure our production partners and policyholders, and confirms Markel’s long-standing commitment to the excess and surplus lines business,” he added.

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. Visit Markel Corporation on the web at markelcorp.com.

Breckenridge Insurance Group announced the hiring of Stephen Kelley

ATLANTA, GA. -- Breckenridge Insurance Group announced the hiring of Stephen Kelley as a senior vice president - of its Blue River Underwriters program administration division. Kelley will direct business development from Blue River's newly established Chicago operation.

"Steve has over thirty years of industry expertise with a record of consistently profitable results in insurance underwriting. His career includes underwriting and brokering of both tough and standard risks, with high focus on adding unexpected value for the client," said Tracey Carragher, CEO of Breckenridge Insurance Group. "Steve understands how to introduce new products and services which clients demand to succeed in economic climates that are always in flux. Over the last seven years while an executive at Seabright Insurance Company and AmTrust North America, Steve has constantly brought value to buyers and profit to risk takers".

"I am excited about Blue River's business mix and the recent growth of its parent - Breckenridge Insurance Group. The industry is buzzing about how this organization has flourished in the last four years. The expertise of their team is rock-solid, and I am excited to work with this remarkable group of professionals", Steve remarked.

Kelley most recently was Regional Vice President for SeaBright Insurance Company, responsible for the national business development field staff operations, and while with AmTrust North America from 2006-2010, served in various management capacities inclusive of Divisional President.

Prior to AmTrust, Kelley was President of Muirfield Underwriters, a large national workers compensation managing general underwriter, owned by the world's largest broker - Aon. His professional experience with Aon goes back to 1990. Steve has built MGU's from the ground up, and taken small operations and grew them exponentially, always differentiating them with world-class service and a unique perspective.

"Buyers want a placement partner that offers strong service, competitive rates, and attractive coverage options", Kelly commented. "Blue River, Breckenridge and its partners are 100% focused on service and creative solutions. I am committed to delivering this to all clients and stakeholders."

A mathematics graduate of Indiana's Tri-State University, Steve is also past president and remains a member of the Board of Directors of the Cancer Support Center, a not-for-profit organization in Homewood, Illinois. He can be contacted at (312) 415-1897 or skelley@blueriveruw.com.

About Breckenridge Insurance Group:
Breckenridge Insurance Group is a nationally known wholesale insurance broker, program manager, MGA, and outsourced insurance service provider, based in Atlanta, GA. Through more than 14 offices nationwide, the company serves independent agents and brokers, providing access to commercial insurance products and programs, including property and casualty coverages, products liability, professional liability, force placed coverages, and a host of customized binding authorities and exclusive programs tailored to specific industries, business and professionals.

Ryan Specialty Group, LLC Announces the Merger of the Assets and Operations of S.H. Smith & Company Inc. into R-T Specialty, LLC

SEPTEMBER 16, 2013, CHICAGO, IL - Ryan Specialty Group, LLC (RSG) today announced that it has reached agreement to merge S.H. Smith & Company, Inc. (SHS) into R-T Specialty, LLC. S.H. Smith & Company, Inc. is one of the largest privately-owned specialty brokerages in the country. Headquartered in Hartford, CT, the company is licensed in 50 states and works through a network of over 2,000 independent retail agents. Formed by Scott Smith in 1982, the company employs more than 90 team members and manages its business across four segments: Professional & Management Liability; Commercial Property & Casualty; In-House Underwriting; and Program Business.

Patrick G. Ryan, Chairman & CEO of RSG, says, "Scott Smith, the President of S.H. Smith & Company, Inc., is highly respected by the brokerage and carrier community. His existing operations and experience will become a basis for expanding RT's presence in the Northeast, as well as our binding authority capabilities. We are excited Scott is joining RT's senior leadership team."

RT President & CEO, Timothy W. Turner adds, "Scott Smith has built a first-class organization and we are proud to add him to our senior management team. We are equally proud of the talented brokers and support personnel at S.H. Smith & Company, Inc. that will help RT grow and continue to provide best in class service to our customers and carriers."

S.H. Smith & Company, Inc. President Scott Smith says, "Combining our specialty services with RT's strong, national distribution model is a win-win for clients everywhere. We are excited about the opportunity to join our team with the fastest growing wholesale brokerage in the country." www.shsmith.com

Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

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

About Ryan Specialty Group, LLC and R-T Specialty, LLC
Ryan Specialty Group, LLC is a global holding company which includes wholesale broker R-T Specialty, LLC, 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 and www.rtspecialty.com

Markel Global Reinsurance appoints Frank Bigley to underwrite agriculture and crop reinsurance

Richmond, VA, September 9, 2013 — Markel Corporation today announced that Markel Global Reinsurance has appointed Frank Bigley as Underwriting Director for agriculture and crop reinsurance. Jed Rhoads, President and Chief Underwriting Officer, Property Reinsurance for Markel Global Reinsurance, commented: "Frank Bigley is a highly respected industry veteran with a successful track record as a reinsurance underwriter specializing in agriculture and crop exposures. We are fortunate that he has agreed to join our team in Bermuda, where, with effect from October 2013, he will assume responsibility for the book of agriculture reinsurance business previously written by Markel in Dublin.” Frank has held various reinsurance underwriting and management positions during a career spanning more than forty years. He was most recently Senior Vice President and Reinsurance Department Manager at Farmers Mutual Hail Insurance Company of Iowa, where he was responsible for all assumed and ceded reinsurance activities from 2000 until his retirement earlier this year. Frank earned a BS degree in Business Administration from Villanova University and an MBA in Management and Finance from Rutgers University Graduate School of Business Administration. 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. Visit Markel Corporation on the web at www.markelcorp.com.

NSM Insurance Group introduces innovative service model for Behavioral Healthcare / Social Service Unit

NSM Insurance Group announced the establishment of a specialty Behavioral Health, Social Services Unit due to NSM's remarkable growth in this niche over the last 5 years. Bill McKernan, NSM President commented "it made perfect sense that our Retail clients benefit from the vast expertise NSM has in this space so we created a team comprised of NSM's most experienced Behavioral Health and Social Service Insurance Professionals"

The team which is led by Sean F. Conaboy and Caitlin S. Ryan focuses on designing insurance programs to meet the specific needs of client organizations and tailoring service and risk management activities to reflect a Total Cost of Risk approach.

Doug Tieman, President & CEO of Caron Treatment Services said "Mr. Conaboy and the NSM team have been instrumental in providing Caron unparalleled Insurance and Risk Management expertise during a Decade of Remarkable Growth and National expansion!"

John Flynn, CEO, YMCA of Philadelphia and Vicinity, offered high praise "Working with Caitlin is like having an in-house risk management department and she is an extension of our staff. I have already recommended her to my colleagues and would reiterate that to anyone who is looking for an incredible insurance business partner. NSM's Behavioral Health-Social Services Unit is distinguished in how they work with Clients

The team is Exclusively Focused on the Behavioral Health, Addiction Treatment & Social Service Industry with the expertise and experience to deliver results to Clients.
Genuine Commitment and involvement in the industry is reflected in active membership and leadership in various Regional and National associations: The Philadelphia Alliance, The National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP), National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare (National Council), Treatment Communities of America (TCA) & The American Association for the Treatment of Opioid Dependence (AATOD)
Involvement, Visibility & Responsiveness with Client Organizations evidenced in : Onsite Risk Surveys, Quarterly Risk Management & Claims meetings, Leadership/ Board Consultation, Due Diligence for clients engaged in Merger-Acquisition activities & Seminars provided by NSM's Non Profit Chief Executive Organization (CEO)

NSM Insurance Group has focused on Behavioral Healthcare and Social Service clients since 1990 and is the expert on the special risk management needs of non-profits. For more information contact either:

Sean Conaboy 610-941-9877 x 153	Caitlin Ryan 610-941-9877 x 227
sfconaboy@nsminc.com	csryan@nsminc.com
www.linkedin.com/pub/sean-conaboy/9/b08/8b2	www.linkedin.com/pub/caitlin-ryan/10/25a/9a7

SIAA Grows by 20 Agencies in July 2013

August 2nd, 2013 - Hampton, NH: The Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance (SIAA) announced the signing of 20 new member agencies during the month of July.

"We are excited to be able to grow at a steady and aggressive pace." said Jim Masiello, SIAA's CEO. "432 new Member Agencies joined our ranks in 2012. That was our 4th consecutive year with over 400 members signed, and we are on pace for another record-breaking year in 2013. Established small to mid-sized agencies as well as captive agents looking to break free and open their own independent agency continue to recognize the value of access to major reputable carriers and the agency development resources that SIAA membership provides. Over the past thirty years we have developed a model that works regardless of the economic climate, signing over 4500 members along the way."

Masiello went on to say, "Agencies that see value in development & education, access to program and specialty markets, marketing assistance (including lead generation), automation discounts, and more recognize SIAA as the total solution to the challenge of agency success. We've spent three decades getting it right and our new member agencies reap the benefits."

SIAA members created more than $700 million in new premium growth in 2012.

July's new members include:

Midwest:
Hibner Insurance Agency of Bison, SD
PSP Insurance Services of Bemidji, MN
Mobile Insurance Agency of Norwalk, OH
Goshert Insurance of Warsaw, IN
Affinity Risk Management of Plymouth, MI
Chrismer Agency of Eaton, OH
A Better Insurance Agency of Centerville, OH
Devine-O'horo Insurance Agency of Hubbard, OH

West:
Stephen Aragon Insurance of Carlsbad, CA
Sara Sordi Insurance Services of Fresno, CA
Van Valkenburgh Insurance Agency of Goleta, CA
SJL Insurance Service of Rosemead, CA
Jack W. Daugherty Insurance & Financial Services of Ennis, MT

Southeast:
Farley Insurance of Huntersville, NC
Anne C. Rose Insurance Agency of Murphy, NC
Douglas M. Croley of Tallahassee, FL
David Mehler Insurance Services of Greensboro, NC
Genesis One Insurance Group of Clearwater, FL
Carrier Financial & Insurance Services of Knoxville, TN

South Central:
Safe Harbor Insurance of Bossier City, LA

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.

Mississippi Insurance Alliance Celebrates 10th Anniversary

July 19th, 2013 - Hampton, NH: SIAA, Inc. - the largest Alliance of Independent Property & Casualty Insurance Agencies in the country - is proud to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Mississippi Insurance Alliance (MIA) of Jackson, MS as an SIAA Master Agency.

According to SIAA Chairman & CEO Jim Masiello, "With a decade of successful growth, Mississippi Insurance Alliance has achieved a significant milestone for which our Master Agencies strive. Their longevity affirms SIAA's standing as the premiere alliance of independent insurance agencies across the country. Our model has worked for over 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 MIA Manager Ladd Bratcher. "Our retail agency, The Insurance Mart, is celebrating their 50th anniversary next year. Sharing that agency development expertise as an SIAA Master Agency was a natural extension of our tradition. Our members gain access to competitive insurance companies, the opportunity to earn profit sharing, and avail themselves of vendor discounts and marketing tools."

Mississippi Insurance Alliance continues to grow by working "from the inside out" with its members to help them maximize their efforts. They have been a Master Agency partner of SIAA since 2003. With a territory spanning the entire state of Mississippi, they are one of the most significant independent agency groups in the region. For more information about Mississippi Insurance Alliance, please visit http://www.msinsalliance.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.

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 4,500 members. For additional information about SIAA, visit www.siaa.net.

Brownyard Group Introduces Revamped Website

Site redesign provides a better user experience for customers and agency partners

Bay Shore, N.Y. - July 22, 2013 - Brownyard Group is pleased to announce the launch of their redesigned website (www.brownyard.com). The specialty program administrator has refreshed the design and content of their site to make it more accessible for all users, from current and prospective insureds to agents and industry partners.

The intuitive interface and easy navigation, as well as the updated program information and visuals deliver an enhanced user experience. These features will assist agents in evaluating products for their clients and in accessing the library of customizable marketing materials.

Though its look has changed, the web address remains the same - visit www.brownyard.com to view the new site.

About Brownyard Group
Brownyard Group is a program administrator that has developed and provided specialized insurance programs for select industries for more than 60 years. These industries include security guards, pest control operators, cosmetics manufacturers, alarm systems, private investigators and security consultants and the beauty industry. In 1993, Brownyard established Brownyard Claims Management, a loss prevention and full-service insurance claims facility. The company is based in Bay Shore, N.Y.

SIAA Grows by 25 Agencies in June 2013

July 16th, 2013 - Hampton, NH: The Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance (SIAA) announced the signing of 25 new member agencies during the month of June.

SIAA members created more than $700 million in new premium growth in 2012.

June's new members include:

East:
Canopy Insurance of Charlottesville, VA

Midwest:
Grand Slam Insurance Agency of Fargo, ND
M&M Insurance Associates of Omaha, NE
BBNS Endurance Corporation of Cadillac, MI
Redburn of Big Rapids, MI
The Lenar Group of Saginaw, MI
Chris Zunich Insurance Agency of Reynoldsburg, OH
Michael Anthony Agency of Houghton Lake, MI
Brooks Fleetwood Insurance Group of Alton, IL
The Insurance House of Marion, IL
Mike Watterson Enterprises of Holden, MO
Concentric Insurance of West Des Moines, IA

West:
Viva Insurance Agency of Pasadena, CA
Universal 1st Financial Group of Glendale, CA
Invisible Insurance Solutions of Irvine, CA
PCI Conrad of Conrad, MT
Serve-Link Insurance of San Marino, CA
Idaho Insurance Agency of Boise, ID
Vista West Insurance Services of Oxnard, CA
Meslee Insurance Services of Los Angeles, CA
Theo Insurance Services of Los Angeles, CA
Jun Ng of San Francisco, CA

Southeast:
Insure-Florida Associates of Lake Worth, FL
The Insurance Store of Radcliff, KY

South Central:
Gooszen & Associates Insurance of Oklahoma City, OK

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

Steven J. England joins Global Special Risks (GSR) as President and CEO

July 15, 2013, HOUSTON, TX -- Global Special Risks, LLC (GSR), part of Ryan Specialty Group, LLC, announced today that Steven J. England has joined GSR as President and CEO. England was formerly Executive Vice President - US Field Operations for Ironshore US, where he was instrumental in developing Ironshore's Property and Specialty Casualty business in the US.

Global Special Risks was formed in 1979 as a London Market Coverholder (a Managing General Agency for Lloyd's and London Companies). GSR provides insurance and risk management services to energy, marine, cargo and special risks. Currently, GSR has offices in four major energy centers: Houston, New Orleans, Dallas, and Calgary.

Frederick C. Burns, Jr. will assume the newly created role of Chief Underwriting Officer (CUO) and will work closely with Steve England to help grow and expand GSR both domestically and internationally.

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

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

Ultra Risk Advisors

Mark Walker Promoted to Vice President

Bellevue, Wash. – July 9, 2013 – Chris Randall, President and CEO of Ultra Risk Advisors (formerly NSU Healthcare), announced today that Mark Walker has been promoted to the position of vice president. “It’s a pleasure to see our people grow with our organization. Mark has done an outstanding job as a producer in building a nice book of business from an impressive network of retail broker customers,” said Randall. “Most recently he has taken a leadership role in growing our imaging and non-standard physicians programs.” In his role as vice president, Walker will lead sales efforts for specialized healthcare programs in the Eastern and Southern regions of the U.S.

Walker joined Ultra in 2008 when it was known as the Healthcare Division of National Specialty Underwriters, Inc. Based in Atlanta, he has been in the insurance industry for more than 20 years. A graduate of the University of Central Florida, Walker began his career as an underwriting trainee with the St Paul Companies and went on to work for Western Indemnity and MMI Companies.

About Ultra Risk Advisors:
Ultra Risk Advisors (Formerly NSU Healthcare) is a privately held commercial insurance program administrator and specialty wholesale broker based in Bellevue, Wash. The company also has offices in Chicago and Atlanta. Ultra specializes in professional and general liability insurance in the healthcare field. For more information, visit www.ultrariskadvisors.com.

NBIS ADDS INDUSTRY LEADER ARTHUR KIRKNER AS VICE PRESIDENT OF CLAIMS

NBIS Successfully Implementing Growth Strategy as New Market Segments Remain Key

Atlanta, July 8th, 2013: NationsBuilders Insurance Services, Inc., the industry leader in specialty construction insurance and a portfolio company of SunTx Capital Partners, is pleased to welcome Arthur “Art” P Kirkner to the Company, where he will assume the position of Vice President, Claims.

In his leadership role, Art will be responsible for auditing claim files to ensure that claims handling comply with processes, procedures and contracts. He will manage the commercial and residential claims teams to ensure that claims are responded to per DOI guidelines, maintain compliance and address non-compliance issues. Art will also develop strategy for the claims function, provide coaching/training and.ad guidance in claims handling while auditing files for compliance with payments for the litigation and claims management guidelines, along with review, identify and implement improvements to claim procedures and policies as needed. He will work on special projects and provide assessments through claims reviews and reports analysis.

Art joins NBIS from Insurance Corporation of British Columbia, where he was VP, Claims Field Services, responsible for delivering prompt, efficient and high-quality claims services to ensure high level of customer satisfaction and retention. He streamlined processes achieving a 10.6% increase in employee productivity, as measured by claims handled per person. He also achieved an 8% decrease in operating budget along with reducing the legal and allocated expense by 35% over a 3-year span. As a claims executive, he was responsible for the leadership and effective management of all aspects of the claims organization, along with timely and realistic recognition of loss and expense reserves and the accurate and prompt disposition of claims. Art holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Temple University and comes to NBIS with over 30 years of claims experience.

“We are confident Art will be an excellent addition to NBIS”, said Bill Tepe, President of NBIS. “Art comes with the high level of claims experience and management skills needed to support our organization’s objectives.”

Art will be located at the NBIS headquarters, Atlanta, GA and can be reached at akirkner@nbis.com.

McGowan Purchases Assets of Professional Risk Placements, LLC

To Our Brokers:

We are excited to announce that The McGowan Companies (McGowan) has purchased the assets of Professional Risk Placements, LLC (PRP). Effective immediately, PRP will begin operating under the newly formed "McGowan Risk Specialists" (MRS) brand.

Established in 1996, PRP has become one of New Jersey's Pre-Eminent Professional Liability Specialists. Professional Risk Placements, LLC is duly licensed to do business in NJ, NY, PA, and CT, with requisite Surplus Lines license(s) in NJ, NY, and PA. "Professional Risk Placements fits exceptionally well with McGowan's growth strategy in the Northeast", states Thomas B. McGowan, IV, President of The McGowan Companies. "We are very excited about the future having these well-respected insurance veterans and their staff as part of the McGowan team."

The "McGowan Risk Specialists" brand will be a facility dedicated to Professional Liability and Special Risks. This operation will be headed by Peter Wilkens, as its President. Wilkens commented, "We are very pleased to announce this transaction with Thom and his team. The McGowan Companies is a fine organization with technological capabilities and insurance expertise that will further enhance the high quality service PRP has been providing to its agents for decades. Our future together is very bright".

All PRP brokers will receive automatic appointments with McGowan and its full range of products and capabilities. Further, all McGowan brokers will now have access to all of PRP's product offerings.

Please note:

Your contacts will not change.

Your current commission structure will remain in place.

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. Cordially,

Thomas B. McGowan, IV	Peter Wilkens
President & Chief Executive Officer	President
The McGowan Companies - Home Office	4 Hendrickson Ave, Suite 1
20595 Lorain Road	Red Bank, New Jersey 07701
Fairview Park, OH 44126	P: 732.450.9730
P: 800.545.1538 (x3609)	pwilkens@prpins.com
t4@mcgowanins.com

Liberty International Underwriters Expands Environmental Presence In Southwest

NEW YORK – Liberty International Underwriters® (LIU), part of the Global Specialty division of Liberty Mutual Insurance, has expanded its environmental impairment liability (EIL) operation with a regional presence, headed by underwriting manager Mike Padula, located in LIU’s Houston office.

Leveraging his local presence to focus on regional trends, develop new opportunities and expand LIU’s producer base, Mr. Padula delivers an enhanced level of support to the Southwest market.

“Our product is the people and the experience behind the policy,” said William McElroy, senior vice president of Environmental Liability for Liberty International Underwriters. “LIU always strives to provide the best service, coupled with the broadest expertise. Our brokers value this and many choose LIU because of our responsive methods.”

Mr. Padula, along with the rest of LIU’s Environmental group, has a deep understanding of local and national environmental regulations and can work with agents and brokers to evaluate a company’s potential liabilities, helping them proactively protect their assets.

“Environmental incidents often come with unexpected risks and many companies do not realize until it is too late that they have environmental exposure,” said Mr. Padula. “Many pollution events are not covered by a Commercial General Liability Policy, and there may be unforeseen gaps in insurance coverage that leave a company paying out-of-pocket for an environmental claim. LIU has the knowledge and experience to help agents and brokers protect their clients’ businesses.”

LIU’s entire suite of Environmental Liability products – fixed site pollution legal liability, contractors pollution liability, storage tank third-party liability, contractors and professional services, and corrective action and cleanup – will be supported by this expanded presence as well as by LIU’s existing EIL operations in New York, Boston, San Francisco, and Denver.

Agents and brokers can contact Mr. Padula at 713-470-5833 or Michael.Padula@libertyiu.com.

About Liberty Mutual Insurance
"Helping people live safer, more secure lives" since 1912, Boston-based Liberty Mutual Insurance is a diversified global insurer and the third largest property and casualty insurer in the U.S. based on 2012 direct premiums written as reported by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.

Liberty Mutual Insurance also ranks 81st on the Fortune 100 list of largest corporations in the U.S. based on 2012 revenue. As of December 31, 2012, Liberty Mutual Insurance had $120.1billion in consolidated assets, $101.5 billion in consolidated liabilities, and $36.9 billion in annual consolidated revenue.

Liberty Mutual Insurance offers a wide range of insurance products and services, including personal automobile, homeowners, workers compensation, property, commercial automobile, general liability, global specialty, group disability, reinsurance and surety. Liberty Mutual Insurance (www.libertymutualinsurance.com) employs over 50,000 people in more than 900 offices throughout the world.

Susquehanna Agents Alliance Celebrates 10th Anniversary

June 18, 2013 - Hampton, NH: SIAA, Inc. - the largest Alliance of Independent Property & Casualty Insurance Agencies in the country - is proud to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Susquehanna Agents Alliance (SAA) of York, PA as an SIAA Master Agency.

According to SIAA Chairman & CEO Jim Masiello, "With a decade of successful growth, Susquehanna Agents Alliance has achieved a significant milestone for which our Master Agencies strive. Their longevity affirms SIAA's standing as the premiere alliance of independent insurance agencies across the country. Our model has worked for over 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 SAA Manager Paul Brady. "Our retail agency, Glatfelter Insurance Group, is one of the top 25 privately-owned insurance brokerages in the US and has been servicing the region for over 60 years. Sharing that agency development expertise as an SIAA Master Agency was a natural extension of our tradition of service founded on trust. Our members gain access to competitive insurance companies, the opportunity to earn profit sharing, and avail themselves of vendor discounts and marketing tools."

Susquehanna Agents Alliance continues to grow by working "from the inside out" with its members to help them maximize their efforts. They have been a Master Agency partner of SIAA since 2003. With a 21-county territory spanning Southern Pennsylvania, they are one of the most significant independent agency groups in the region. For more information about Susquehanna Agents Alliance, please visit http://www.tga-ins.com/saa.asp .

Philadelphia Insurance Presents Racing Wheelchair to Challenged Athlete

PHLY funds CAF grant to provide 12-year-old with custom-built racing wheelchair

Bala Cynwyd, PA, June 10, 2013 – Like many other 12-year-olds, Miguel Jimenez-Vergara enjoys playing sports, but he is missing two things most 12-year-old athletes have: his legs. Miguel was born in Columbia, without legs due to a congenital birth defect. Currently living in Ewing, New Jersey with his family, Miguel has been actively involved with the North Jersey Navigators Paralympic Sport Club for the past 6 years. In July 2012, he won 14 gold and two silver medals at the National Junior Disability Championships, however he realized he would need a top-end racing wheelchair to continue competing at a top level and to compete at the 2013 Jr. National Championships this July.

“Wheelchair sports are great and they make me feel like a regular kid. I love to compete and I love to win,” shares Miguel.

Thanks to a Challenged Athletes Foundation® (CAF) grant funded by Philadelphia Insurance Companies (PHLY), Miguel received a custom-built racing wheelchair. The cost/value of the EagleSports Soaring Racing Wheelchair is approximately $3,500, an expense most health insurance providers don’t cover for disabled athletes. The Challenged Athletes Foundation is a unique non-profit organization that provides support to people with permanent physical disabilities so they can live active and healthy lifestyles.

“Participating in wheelchair sports is the best thing that ever happened to me. I could play sports and compete just like everyone else,” said Miguel.

“Sponsors like Philadelphia Insurance Companies are crucial in providing the funding needed by athletes like Miguel to overcome obstacles and pursue their athletic dreams,” said Virginia Tinley, CAF’s Executive Director. “We are beyond thankful for PHLY’s support.”

Miguel was presented with his new racing wheelchair in the TEAMPHLY Health and Wellness Center, joined by his family, as well as representatives from CAF and PHLY. Following the presentation, PHLY employees participated in a spin class fundraiser for CAF, kicking off a series of exercise fundraisers to be held in the Company’s gym throughout the month of June. PHLY has already raised more than $230,000 for CAF since 2008.

“Commitment to a healthy and active lifestyle is important to PHLY,” said Jamie Maguire, Chairman of Philadelphia Insurance Companies. “We are proud to support the Challenged Athletes Foundation to help athletes like Miguel stay active and achieve their goals.”

Miguel has a long-term goal to compete in the International Wheelchair and Amputee Sports (IWAS) World Junior Games and the Paralympics. You can watch a video of Miguel receiving his custom racing wheelchair at www.youtube.com/phlyins.

About Philadelphia Insurance
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 “A+” for counterparty credit and financial strength by Standard & Poor’s, is nationally recognized as a member of Ward's Top 50, National Underwriter’s Top 100, and one of the Top 150 Workplaces in America by Workplace Dynamics. The organization has 45 offices strategically located across the United States to provide superior service. For more information, please visit www.PHLY.com.

About Challenged Athletes Foundation
The Challenged Athletes Foundation® (CAF) is a world leader in helping individuals with physical challenges get involved – and stay involved – in sports. CAF believes that participation in sports at any level increases self-esteem, encourages independence and enhances quality of life. Since 1994, close to $47 million has been raised and more than 8,200 funding requests from challenged athletes in all 50 states and dozens of countries have been satisfied. Additionally, CAF’s outreach efforts reach another 60,000 individuals each year. Whether it’s a $2,500 grant for a handcycle, helping underwrite a carbon fiber running foot not covered by insurance, or arranging enthusiastic encouragement from a mentor who has triumphed over a similar challenge, CAF’s mission is clear: give those with the desire to live active, athletic lifestyles every opportunity to compete in the sports they love. To learn more, log on to www.challengedathletes.org or call 858-866-0959.

SIAA Grows by 30 Agencies in May 2013

May 29th, 2013 - Hampton, NH: The Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance (SIAA) announced the signing of 30 new member agencies during the month of May, bringing the total of the past two months to 70.

SIAA members created more than $700 million in new premium growth in 2012.

May's new members include:

East:
Legacy IFS of Willow Grove, PA
Olde Liberty Insurance of East Hartford, CT
Love Insurance Agency of Hurricane, WV
Armor Group of Saratoga Springs, NY
S.I. Agency of Woodbourne, NY

Midwest:
Alliance Insurance & Financial Services of Omro, WI
Zohos Insurance of Mayfield Heights, OH
Marco Miller Insurance Agency of Columbus, OH
Virgin Financial Group of Columbus, OH
West Suburban Assurance of Aurora, IL
D.K. Insurance of Anderson, IN
Global Insurance of Northbrook, IL
Helenske Insurance Agency of Fessenden, ND
Empire Park Insurance Agency of Omaha, NE

West:
Clear Lakes Agency of Buhl, ID
MEB Insurance Services of Greely, CO
Adam Hansen Insurance of San Clemente, CA
Valley Center Insurance Agency of Valley Center, CA
Kitty L. Johnson Insurance Agency of Keizer, OR
Nevada Insurance Solutions of Las Vegas, NV

Southeast:
Hartsfield Insurance of Lawrenceburg, TN
Farrar Lynch Insurance Agency of Clinton, TN
My Community Insurance of Winchester, KY
MJC Insurance Group of Nashville, TN
Holtzmann Insurance Agency of Louisville, KY
Taylor Made Insurance Group of Lexington, KY
1st United Insurance Services of Lilburn, GA
Eton Bridge Insurance and Financial Solutions of Orlando, FL

South Central:
Bean Insurance Agency of Austin, TX
Edward E. DeMars & Associates of Fort Worth, TX

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

TMPAA Announces 2013 “Program Marketing Campaign” Award Winners

Three Member Agencies Score Highest in Competition Co-Sponsored by the IMCA

Wilmington, DE — The Target Markets Program Administrators Association (TMPAA) announced at their Mid Year Meeting in Baltimore that 20 entries were received for the third annual marketing campaign competition. TMPAA’s co-sponsor, the Insurance Marketing & Communications Association (IMCA) has sponsored its own marketing and communications “Showcase Awards” for 55 years. IMCA provided a panel of independent judges that reviewed all TMPAA member entries for both creative design and marketplace impact.

The winning member agencies were Venture Insurance Programs from West Chester, PA, K&B Underwriters from Reston, VA and MiniCo Insurance Agency from Phoenix, AZ. Venture’s entry was for its “Suite Life” campaign in support of its hospitality program. K&B Underwriters’ entry featured its multi-media campaign in support of its “DigniCARE” senior living facilities program. And MiniCo’s entry was the launch of its new “Family of Products” campaign featuring a branded icon supporting four of its specialty insurance programs. All three Award of Excellence winners supported their entries with impressive marketplace metrics that achieved desired upfront marketing objectives.

David Springer, TMPAA President, presented the winning award plaques at the recent Mid Year Meeting. The semi-annual association meeting attracted 600 agency, carrier and vendor members. Springer commented, “The TMPAA was thrilled to continue the creative competition in partnership with IMCA. We hope to have even more entries in 2014.”

Additionally, Springer announced that two other member agencies were named runners up in this year’s competition – GMI Insurance from Valley Forge, PA and Willis Programs of Portsmouth, NH.

The Association’s recent Mid Year Meeting was held in Baltimore, MD, May 6-9. Complete details of this event are now on the TMPAA website. The 13th Annual TMPAA Summit is scheduled for October 21-23 in Scottsdale, AZ.

Program Administrators / MGA’s interested in learning more about the TMPAA and the Program Marketing Awards can visit the Association website at www.targetmarkets.com, or contact Ray Scotto, Executive Director, at (877) 347-5700 or ray.scotto@targetmkts.com.

Safeco Insurance recognizes BB&T-Oswald Trippe and Company for excellent performance

FORT MYERS, Fla. (June 3, 2013) - Safeco Insurance has recognized BB&T-Oswald Trippe and Company with a Premier Partner Award for performance and partnership. Fewer than 10 percent of independent insurance companies who sold Safeco personal lines products in 2012 received this distinguished honor.

"Inclusion in the Safeco Premier Partner Program is reserved for only our very best agencies," said Matthew Nickerson, president of Safeco Insurance. "The commitment and high achievement of these top performers have earned them access to special resources and programs that support their ability to better serve their customers and grow their agencies."

"We are honored to be recognized as a Safeco Premier Partner," said Jerry Elliott, BB&T Insurance Services's Personal Lines Insurance vice president of sales. "We make it a priority at BB&T-OTC to deliver superior-quality service and the trusted advice that our customers want."

BB&T-Oswald Trippe and Company provides comprehensive insurance and risk-management services to families and businesses throughout Florida. The agency offers protection from the nation's leading insurance companies. BB&T-Oswald Trippe and Company has offices in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Holmes Beach, Miami, Naples, Ocala and Weston, Fla.

BB&T Insurance Services, the sixth largest insurance broker in the U.S. and the eighth largest internationally, is a wholly owned subsidiary of BB&T. Founded in 1922, it operates more than 100 insurance agencies in Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Georgia, Florida and California. Visit http://Insurance.BBT.com/ to learn more. BB&T Insurance Services is a wholly owned subsidiary of Branch Banking & Trust Company.

In business since 1923 and based in Seattle, Safeco sells insurance to drivers and homeowners through a network of independent agents throughout the United States.

Safeco is a Liberty Mutual Insurance company. Liberty Mutual ranks 84th on the Fortune 100 list of the largest U.S. corporations based on 2011 revenue. The company has financial strength ratings of A (Excellent) from the A.M. Best Company, A2 (Good) from Moody's Investors Service and A- (Strong) from Standard & Poor's.

For more information about Safeco Insurance, visit www.Safeco.com.

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