AAMGA President Rothert grateful for term Ethical leadership takes
Transcription
AAMGA President Rothert grateful for term Ethical leadership takes
American Association of Managing General Agents 85TH ANNUAL MEETING Daily News t & 4 5 t 3JU[$BSMUPO(SBOEF-BLFT3FTPSUt0SMBOEP'- WHAT'S INSIDE University Day class teaches ethical leadership . . . . 3 Governmental Affairs Committee stays busy . . . . . . . . 4 AAMGA University Supporters . . . . . . . . 8 Dining in style at the Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes . . . . . 14 TODAY’S SCHEDULE Registration desk open 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Opening Breakfast 8 – 9 a.m. Agents & Brokers Lounge open 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sen. Fred Thompson keynote 9 – 10 a.m. Trade & Vendor Show open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Spouse Coffee with Jan Rothert 10 a.m. – Noon Company parties Evening Monday, May 23, 2011 AAMGA President Rothert grateful for term ooking back on his year as AAMGA’s President, Mark Rothert has much to be grateful for. The one thing he regrets is that it’s come to an end. “It absolutely flew by,” said Rothert, CIW, President of Ron Rothert Ins. Services, Inc., CMGA. “It’s been an eyeopener for me — the places I’ve gone and the people I’ve talked to — it’s just been a great experience. It’s been a real honor bestowed upon me by my peers. I’m grateful I was able to do it.” In terms of accomplishments he’s proud to have been a part of, Rothert said the first L that comes to mind is the realization of the Georgia State University Distinguished Chair for the Risk and Management of Insurance. “When I first came on the board five years ago that was in its infancy stages,” he said. “They were still discussing it and its possibilities. To see it actually come to fruition this year and to be the one who could pass out the certificates for the Leadership Track that the Under Forty Organization did — we had 12 recipients of that — it was great to see that happen. There was a lot of work by a lot of people on see ROTHERT, page 3 Mark Rothert, AAMGA President Ethical leadership takes center stage on Sunday ore than 30 people discussed the definition and application of ethical leadership during the Sunday afternoon course, “Ethical Leadership in P&C Insurance.” Part of the UFO Leadership Institute’s “Leading for the Future” track, the course was made possible by AAMGA University. John Hayden, President and CEO of CJH Consulting and retired President and CEO of American Modern Insurance Group, led the session. During the course, he asked participants to think of situations they’ve recently found themselves in where they were forced to make an ethical decision. These could include spending time with a grandson verses getting extra work done, or telling the cashier when she’s given you extra money back by accident verses keeping it for yourself. He then looked at why we tend to follow certain ethical rules. “They say when you’re teaching a course on ethics to not get too deep in the ethical theory,” Hayden said. “I happen to believe the theory is important to understand why you’re applying it the way you do. “I think to understand why we tick the way we do in terms of some of our own personal morals or values it helps to have a sense of where some of those ethical theories came from.” M AAMGA members listen to John Hayden of CJH Consulting discuss ethical ledership during an interactive portion of his University Day class, "Ethical Leadership in P&C Insurance." Hayden then said that ethical issues are not always black and white. “The interesting thing about ethics is that your principal, your ethics, your guidelines may not line up with mine,” he said. “So as wholesalers they may not line up with your carriers. You’re talking about an area that by definition is not black and white. It’s generally gray.” Being ethical, however, is something to strive for, he said. This includes personal situations when nobody is looking and in the business world. Hayden said companies who are seen as ethical have a competitive advantage, are favored by investors, attract and retain ethical staff, create loyalty and pride among employees, have a positive reputation, are able to focus more energy on positive see ETHICS, page 11 Full Speed Ahead More products. More capabilities. More solutions. One stop. Our commitment – Full Speed Ahead. www.markelcorp.com Offices in Richmond, VA; Red Bank, NJ; Deerfield, IL; Plano, TX; Scottsdale, AZ; Woodland Hills, CA; Chicago, IL; New York, NY; Pewaukee, WI; and many international locations AAMGA Daily News ★ Monday, May 23, 2011 Course discusses how to lead through change embers of AAMGA’s Under Forty Organization and others participated in Sunday morning’s, “Leading Your Team Through Change.” The course, part of the UFO Leadership Institute’s “Leading for the Future” track, is made possible by the AAMGA University. Jim Senn, Professor and Managing Director of the Center for Global Business Leadership at Georgia State University, began the course by putting the topic of change in perspective. “This whole area of change is probably the toughest area of the workshops we’re doing,” he said. “It’s hard to get your arms around, but if you think about it your responsibility is not managing change. The higher you go the more your responsibility is going to be creating change.” Senn said the reason many companies ultimately fail isn’t because they don’t have Greg Rubel of Markel - Mid South shares his views on leadership during the interactive portion good people. The problem is that people stay of the University Day class, “Leading Your Team Through Change,” Sunday afternoon. where they are too long and they don’t see the change in front of them. “It’s always easier to stay where you are that’s a vision or destination. People want work through other people. You can’t be a and that’s where the trouble starts,” he said. to know where things are going and how good leader if you don’t have followers.” “The best time to change is when you don’t they fit into it. They want to know why Senn also asked the audience to share have to.” what they’re working concerns and opportunities the industry is Senn then asked on is important to now experiencing. These ranged from the ★★ ★★ participants to share that. If you can’t get challenges of technology and consolidation their opinions of what that message out, to the opportunities found in the recovering It's not about you, it's makes an effective you’re part of the economy. what you can make happen. leader. Answers problem.” “I hear a lot of concern about the included someone who Senn added that changing industry, but I also hear from It's about your ability to work listens, someone who it’s also important people who say the industry is always through other people. You can't plans and takes action to “mobilize changing,” he said. “Any company that’s and someone who is a commitment” running its business the same way it was 10 be a good leader if you don't strong communicator. or enable people years ago is probably in trouble.” have good followers. Senn said leaders to become selfOne example of a “mature company” often think what makes motivated. that’s still able to adapt to changing times, he — Jim Senn, professor and them an effective leader “If they motivate said, is Coca-Cola. managing director of the Center for Global Business is their own intelligence themselves it just “They’re anything but a soft drink Leadership at GSU or power. However, adds a whole different company,” Senn said. “They’ve reinvented there’s much more to it dimension,” he said. themselves many times. At one point they than that. Above all, Senn said leaders simply make were even in the food business. If you talk “The No. 1 thing you have to do is face things happen. to the management team and ask them or define reality for the people around “It’s not about you, it’s what you can make what business they’re in today, they’ll tell see LEADERSHIP, page 6 you,” he said. “Set a direction, whether happen,” he said. “It’s about your ability to M ★ ROTHERT continued from page 1 that. It’s a real feather in AAMGA’s cap.” Rothert added that working with AAMGA’s various committees to find ways to bring new members into the fold also was rewarding. “We’re beginning to see the results of that,” he said. “I know Wayne Forest, Sr., who’s the incoming president, has that on his agenda, too.” Rothert said another important part of the last year has been working to ensure that there’s a real value to AAMGA membership. “The people who came before me set the table on that and allowed me to make some accomplishments there,” he added. He’s also honored to have been president while the Governmental Affairs Committee tackled the ongoing developments surrounding the Nonadmitted and Reinsurance Reform Act of 2010 and for the HR Committee’s ★★ ★ ★★ It's been a real challenge for us as we're doing our strategic planning for the next five years. Plus, we're watching what we're spending and making sure we're taking care of out members' dues and using them approprietly and getting the biggest bang for our buck. — Mark Rothert, AAMGA President work on an HR manual now on the AAMGA website for MGAs without dedicated HR departments to use. “Those are a few of the things that were accomplished,” he said. “I’m fortunate enough to say I was there when it happened.” In terms of challenges, the biggest obstacle during the last year has been the economy. “It’s been a real challenge for us as we’re doing our strategic planning for the next five years,” he said. “Plus, we’re watching what we’re spending and making sure we’re taking care of our members’ dues and using them appropriately and getting the biggest bang for our buck. “For the Annual Meeting we’re making sure we have a venue and a program that are actually going to be worthwhile to them so they can get the most out of it. I think we’ve done a pretty good job of that. The number of registrants we have so far speaks well to that.” Rothert, whose company joined AAMGA in the mid-1980s, has been on the board for five years. He said he’s enjoyed serving the Association. “From the first day that I came on the board to now, it was a lot more work than I anticipated,” he said. “It takes a lot of time. I’m very fortunate to have good people here 3 Inaugural Associate Member Town Hall set for Tuesday he first ever AAMGA Associate Member Town Hall Meeting will take place from 2 to 3 p.m. Tuesday in Tuscany C. The meeting is designed to give insurance companies, direct risk bearing entities, Lloyd’s Syndicates and brokers a chance to provide feedback and ideas now that two associate members can serve on AAMGA’s Board with voting privileges. Current associate board members, Tom Mulligan of Western World Insurance Group and Gary Tiepelman of Scottsdale Insurance Company, will host the event. The meeting’s informal discussions will also give associate members a chance to learn more about the AAMGA’s current activities and its plans for the future. “We want to make certain that company members are aware of the bylaw change — that they currently have representation on the board of the AAMGA,” Mulligan said. “We want to provide attendees with a brief update on our observations of Association priorities, accomplishments, new initiatives and strategic plans. “Perhaps most importantly, we want this meeting to be a forum for the associate members to ask questions, express their views on association priorities and to provide guidance to Gary and I as to how best to represent their interests on the board.” The Associate Member Town Hall Meeting is open to anyone from an AAMGA member company. “Any member of AAMGA is certainly welcome to come, however our main objective is to attract the associate T see TOWN HALL, page 6 at our office who’ve been able to keep the business running and keep us going while I’m off doing AAMGA work. “The Board of Directors has just been absolutely superb. They’ve been an incredible help — if you need something done they get it done for you. Last, but not least, the people at Accolade — Bernie and his staff — they’ve taken incredibly good care of me and kept me informed. They kept me going where I’m supposed to be going to doing what I’m supposed to be doing. Without all of those pieces, I’d probably be lost.” Rothert said he believes Wayne Forest, Sr. is going to take AAMGA to new levels of success as President. “I think Wayne’s going to do a great job,” he said. “I’ve known Wayne for years and he’s one of the most conscientious people I know. He’s very detail oriented and stays on top of things. He makes sure things get done. He’s going to be a real asset to the Association. I think they’re lucky to have him going forward.” 4 AAMGA Daily News ★ Monday, May 23, 2011 Governmental Affairs helps MGAs track NRRA developments AMGA’s ever-busy Governmental Affairs Committee is working overtime to help MGAs keep up with the continuously developing — and far reaching — Nonadmitted and Reinsurance Reform Act (NRRA) of 2010. The bill, which will change how surplus lines taxes are paid and allocated among states on multistate transactions using a “home state” model, has created a variety of reactions from state legislatures. However, since its passage last July, the states are still not in agreement on how to best follow the law, which takes effect this July. “Nothing is settled out there in the industry right now,” said Joshua Korver, Committee Co-Chair and President of The Insurance Center, An Alaskan Corp. “During the next year or two, it’s going to be difficult for brokers with different states under different agreements, and some under no agreement whatsoever, and the NRRA still applies.” Since the bill calls for the “home state” of a multistate policy to receive 100 percent of the surplus lines taxes, Congress asked the states to develop a tax allocation method to share the surplus lines tax amongst themselves. However, as it currently stands, some states may be unable to legally collect 100 percent of taxes. “Many states had statutes that said the state can only collect surplus lines taxes on the portion of the risk located in their state,” A Thompson to deliver keynote here isn’t much that former U.S. senator Fred Thompson hasn’t done. From lobbyist and senator to radio host and actor, Thompson has just about done it all. AAMGA members will get a chance to hear from the popular politician at this morning’s Opening Breakfast. The breakfast begins at 8 a.m. in the Tuscany Ballroom. A U.S. Senator from Tennessee from 1994 to 2003, Fred Thompson is one of the most respected and visible figures speaking out on the important challenges facing America today. Elected to the U.S. Senate in 1994, his independent approach became legendary. He spoke about the need for a competent and ethical government, and expanded on that message in his recent presidential campaign. Senator Thompson is also well known for his portrayal of New York District Attorney Arthur Branch on the Emmy Award winning drama, “Law & Order.” In 1994, Thompson was elected to finish the remaining two years of Al Gore’s unexpired U.S. Senate term. During the 1994 campaign, Thompson’s opponent was longtime Nashville Congressman Jim Cooper. Thompson defeated Cooper in T see THOMPSON, page 6 he said. “There’s a potential in those states more streamline agreement often referred to that not 100 percent of the policy would be as “SLIMPACT-lite” and has already passed taxed. When added to the situation of having congressional review in some states. no settled allocation solution, it’s a strange As it pushes AAMGA’s agenda at mess that we’ve found ourselves in during the various state levels, Korver said the the last year.” committee is keeping an eye on the Two surplus lines tax allocation solutions popularity of each proposal. He said it’s are currently fighting difficult to determine it out in state which option is ★★ ★★ legislatures across the leading because country. each state is dealing We're trying to view the One solution, with its own set of entire landscape of scenarios the Nonadmitted circumstances. Insurance Multistate “There are a that some of our members may Agreement (NIMA) number of states that face during the coming year and have decided not to was created by the National Association pass any legislation plan out some strategies that of Insurance at all except for the will help them navigate through Commissioners fact that they can (NAIC). The collect 100 percent of these legislative complexities. legislation needed surplus lines taxes on — Joshua Korver, Governmental to enact NIMA the transaction,” he Affairs Committee Co-Chair gives insurance said. “There are other commissioners the states that didn’t even power to determine have a legislative how states respond to NRRA. session this year because they only have Another solution is Surplus Lines sessions every two years. Then there Insurance Multistate Compliance Compact are other states that put in the enacting (SLIMPACT). The compact of state legislation that allows the commissioner to legislatures would preserve states’ rights to enter into the NIMA agreement. Finally, regulate their unique insurance markets, there are the states that have enacted while providing a state-driven mechanism legislation in support of SLIMPACT-lite. for fair surplus lines tax allocation. The The industry is supporting the SLIMPACTSLIMPACT solution was developed by the lite solution because it adds the most surplus lines industry during the past several efficiency for brokers and their insureds.” years. During the last year, it’s become a Also during the last year, the committee ★ AAMGA on Twitter Go to http://twitter. com/AAMGATweets partnered with the Council of State Governments to promote the industry’s call for a simple, all-state holistic solution. “We’ve been promoting that agenda on behalf of the membership all year long, but going up against state regulatory agencies with an alternate solution is an uphill battle,” Korver said. “And it is not in anyone’s best interest to get cross-wise with their division of insurance, because you work with them every day. It puts everybody in a precarious situation. You can’t just throw that critical relationship away by taking an extreme or hard-line stance. We have to navigate this very carefully.” This year, the committee will continue to help AAMGA members understand the unfolding of the bill’s implementation. “We’re working with NAPSLO and others to come up with some advice for members on how to go forward and handle your particular situation, should it come up,” Korver said. “We’re trying to view the entire landscape of scenarios that some of our members may face during the coming year and plan out some strategies that will help them navigate through these legislative complexities.” Membership Committee helps AAMGA gain 21 members despite mergers, acquisitions he recent challenges of mergers and acquisitions have kept AAMGA’s Membership Committee on its toes. Despite the fact that these scenarios chip away at AAMGA’s membership number, the Association still gained 21 new members since last year’s Annual Meeting. These include 12 MGA members, six associate members and three business service members. “It was a challenging year,” said Teri Black, President of Black/White Associates, Louisville. “Because of the acquisitions the membership actually has diminished and we were faced with trying to figure out how to reach out to potentially new members, which is still is a major challenge for us.” The nine-member committee split up recruitment assignments, each seeking new members in the areas of associate members business service members or MGA members. “I think the economy definitely had an impact on what we were trying to accomplish,” said Kathy Schroeder, President of Sierra Specialty Ins. Services, Inc. “There’s no question. In spite of it all, we got new members, but it is the thing where everybody’s concerned about their budget — can they afford to go to conferences and join another association and those things. From that standpoint, it was challenging.” To help boost membership and retain its current membership, the committee is T The New Member Reception is a great way for the newest members of the AAMGA to get to know one another as well as other association members. There are 21 new members that have joined the AAMGA since last year’s Annual Meeing. putting together booklets for current and potential members that highlight the benefits of AAMGA membership. The membership also received from the committee a copy of the new qualifications for becoming an AAMGA member. Along with its mailings and aggressive calling campaign, the committee also is proposing a number of methods to entice business members to join. These include providing discounted registration to the Annual Meeting to those who wish to only attend the Vendor & Trade Show. It also suggested allowing members to be able to invite people to attend the convention at a discounted rate so they can witness some of the benefits of AAMGA membership at the meeting. This year, the committee is looking to change with the times — again. It will evaluate the challenges and successes of this last year and focus on adding new members — despite the ongoing challenge of acquisitions and mergers. “I know that this year one of the things we’re going to do is redefine the objectives of the committee,” Black said. “Once we do that, one of our goals is to acquire at least 20 new members and work closely with the incoming president.” The ALPS Partnership Program is our way of showing appreciation, support and, most importantly, recognition for the ongoing success of our most important General Agent partners. With four guiding principles in mind – achievement, leadership, partnership, and success – we designed WKHSURJUDPWRSURYLGHEHQH¿WVUHZDUGVDQGVHUYLFHWRRXUNH\SDUWQHUV $PHULFDQ0RGHUQ¶VVXFFHVVLVVRFORVHO\OLQNHGWRRXU*HQHUDO$JHQWV¶ VXFFHVVZH¶GOLNHWRH[WHQGRXUFRQJUDWXODWLRQVWRWKHIROORZLQJPHPEHUV of our 2011 Summit and Alpine Clubs: SUMMIT CLUB ALPINE CLUB Arlington/Roe & Co. $JHQWV,QVXUDQFH0DUNHWV,QF Bloss & Dillard, Inc. Concorde General Agency Graham-Rogers, Inc. J.E. Brown & Associates Johnson & Johnson, Inc. John Carriero & Son, Inc. LoVullo Associates, Inc. 0DUNHW)LQGHUV,QF 3DFL¿F,QWHUQDWLRQDO8QGHUZULWHUV South & Western Surplus Line Managers The Colonial Group, Inc. W.N. Tuscano Agency, Inc. AAMGA Daily News ★ Monday, May 23, 2011 6 ★★ ★ Photos from around University Day From learning how to lead your team through change or following the correct blueprint for succes, Sunday was a day of continuing education. LEADERSHIP continued from page 3 WE SET THE STANDARD IN HANDLING NON-STANDARD RISKS. you nonalcoholic beverages. They’re in the water business with smart water and mineral water. They’re even successful in the coffee business — just not in this country. It’s a very mature business, but the thing is you have to reinvent the business.” Scott Ertley, with Endurance US Insurance’s office in Atlanta, said he enjoyed the session. “I think it’s good for emerging leaders of companies and MGAs,” he said. “I think it’s a good course. He’s really focused and so far has a lot of nuggets to apply to your current business, no matter what it is.” Priscilla Priestman, assistant Vice President of underwriting at Penn-American Group, Bala Cynwyd, PA, said she enjoyed TOWN HALL When it comes to non-standard risks, CNA Select Risk delivers the expertise continued from page 3 that the marketplace demands. Skilled professionals. Tailored policy coverages and alternatives in risk transfer. And the ability to identify and membership,” Tiepelman said. “Having said that, it is possible the agency Tuesday's breakfast A reminder that Tuesday's buffet breakfast for AAMGA members in the Tuscany Ballroom will begin at 7 a.m. instead of 7:30 a.m. the dialogue with fellow course participants as much as the presentation. “Anytime you get folks from the MGAs and companies to share you just get a lot of great discussion and ideas flowing back and forth,” she said. “I like he fact that these aren’t the same people I deal with on a daily basis and we have different minds working. We’re voicing concerns and focusing on how we can turn them into opportunities.” membership may have interest in our perspective as well. We are hopeful that the meeting will be an interactive session where the attendees leave feeling heard and with questions answered.” write all types of risk with confidence. When you want one source you can call for all of your non-standard risks … we can show you more. ® For more information, visit www.cna.com/selectrisk. CNA is a registered trademark of CNA Financial Corporation. Copyright © 2011 CNA. All rights reserved. THOMPSON continued from page 4 a landslide, overcoming Cooper’s early 20 percent lead in the polls to defeat him by an even greater margin. In 1996, Thompson was re-elected (for the term ending in 2003) with 61 percent of the vote. In 2005, Thompson was named by President George W. Bush as an advisor to Supreme Court Chief Justice nominee John Roberts, helping to move his nomination through the Senate confirmation process. Thompson was the host of the nationally syndicated radio show “The Fred Thompson Show.” The Westwood One syndicated show debuted on March 2, 2009 and replaced “The Radio Factor With Bill O’Reilly.” In 1973, he served as Minority Counsel to the Senate Watergate Committee where he lead the line of inquiry that revealed the audio-taping system in the White House Oval Office. 8 AAMGA Daily News ★ Monday, May 23, 2011 AAMGA University Supporters The American Association of Managing General Agents proudly recognizes and thanks the following companies and individuals for their generous contributions to the AAMGA Foundation. Risk Placement Services, Inc. Scobie Group, CMGA Seaboard Underwriters, Inc., CMGA Surplus Line Association of Arizona W.E. Love & Associates, Inc., CMGA Chancellor's Award ($500,000 to $999,999) Patron ($25,000 to $49,999) Scottsdale Insurance Company Lifetime Trustee ($250,000 to $499,999) AAMGA American Modern Insurance Group Principal Donor ($100,000 to $249,999) Guaranty National Corporation Markel Corporation Penn-America Group Southern Insurance Underwriters, Inc., CMGA Western World Insurance Group Benefactor ($50,000 to $99,999) American Reliable Insurance Company AmWINS Transportation Underwriters, Inc., CMGA Bell & Clements Ltd. Carolina Casualty Insurance Company Hanover Excess & Surplus, Inc., CMGA Miller Insurance Services Ltd., UK Myron F. Steves & Company, CMGA Nautilus Insurance Group Northland Insurance Companies Accolade Management Company American Wholesale Insurance Company Black/White & Associates Insurance Brokers of Louisville Bloss & Dillard, Inc., CMGA Burns & Wilcox, Ltd. Excess Line Association of New York Harman Kemp N.A. Ltd. Johnson & Johnson Inc., CMGA Louis T. Mastos Associates LoVullo Associates, Inc., CMGA MacNeill Group, Inc., CMGA Market Finders Insurance Corporation, CMGA Northland Insurance Companies Superior Underwriters Div. of Groninger & Co., Inc. Surplus Line Association of Washington Surplus Lines Stamping Office of Texas USLI Sponsor ($10,000 to $24,999) American Equity Arlington/Roe & Co. Cochrane & Company Concorde General Agency, Inc. Corrie Bauckham Batts, Ltd. Delta General Agency Corporation Erickson-Larsen, Inc. The expertise to solve your E&S challenges The XL Insurance Excess & Surplus lines unit provides intelligent risk solutions and exceptional service through a limited number of contracted wholesale brokers. We work closely with you to underwrite your tough and unique risks. You benefit with coverages backed by the financially strong member insurers of the XL Group and our 25 year history of experience as a leading provider of global insurance and reinsurance products. For more information, contact John DiBiasi at 480-567-7513 or john.dibiasi@xlgroup.com. www.es.xlinsurance.com “XL Insurance” is the global brand used by XL Group plc’s (NYSE: XL) insurance companies. Coverages are underwritten by Greenwich Insurance Company, Indian Harbor Insurance Company, XL Insurance America, Inc., XL Select Insurance Company and XL Specialty Insurance Company. Coverages not available in all jurisdictions. Jimcor Agency Inc., CMGA Louis A. Williams & Associates Market Finders Inc., CMGA Maxum Indemnity Co. McClelland & Hine, Inc. Oklahoma General Agency Pennock Insurance, Inc. RFIB Group Limited Ron Rothert Insurance Services, Inc., CMGA Southern Cross Underwriters, Inc., CMGA Specialty Insurance Managers, Inc. Texas Specialty Underwriters, Inc. United Brokers, Inc., CMGA United National Group W.A. Schickedanz Agency, Inc., CMGA Friend (up to $9,999) ADCO General Corporation Bolton & Company Colonial General Insurance Agency, Inc. D.M.I. Insurance Services, Inc., CMGA Delaware Valley Underwriting Agency, Inc., CMGA F.T.P., Inc. John Carriero & Son, Inc. Golden Bear Insurance Company Hall Wright General Agency General Star Management Co. Mississippi Surplus Lines Association NAPSLO Pacific International Underwriters, Inc. Roush Insurance Services, Inc. SeaCoast Underwriters, Inc., CMGA Southern General Agency, Inc. American Reliable Insurance Company Anderson & Murison, Inc. Colonial General Insurance Agency, Inc. Joseph Distel & Company, Inc. Hudson Insurance Group Irvin B. Green & Associates, Inc. Insurance Innovators Inc. Insurance Finance Corporation International Excess Agency, Inc. M.J. Kelly Co. Russell Bond & Co. Inc., CMGA Tapco Underwriters, Inc. Westphalen Insurance Services Inc. Personal Gifts Frank Powell Preston Gough, Jr. Edwin Calabrese Thomas B. Rogan Robert A. Schneider Herman Lewis Charles Deering Len LoVullo Dave McDermid Gary Tiepelman Kerry Dillard Brian Waller Sam Gardner Honorary and Memorial Gifts AAMGA Accolade Management Company Adco General Corp. American Modern Insurance Group American Reliable Insurance Co. American Southern Insurance Co. see SUPPORTERS, page 10 Optimize Your Agency’s Cash Management With A Bank That Works Like You InsurBanc was founded by insurance industry leaders, giving us the expertise to assess your insurance industry business and provide professional advice and recommendations. We combine the flexibility and convenience of technology with the personal touch of our dedicated staff. InsurBanc recognizes the uniqueness of your agency business and offers a range of specialized deposit products to help facilitate cash management and maximize value. We look at your agency’s individual cash flow situation, then design a cash management program to meet your needs. 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Caldwell Cochrane & Company Colonial General Insurance Agency, Inc. Curtis and Rosemary Anderson David & Terri McDermid Deering & Associates, Inc., CMGA Delta General Agency Corp. Development Associates – Ray Spies Edward Levy, CIW and Jami Levy Fred Steves George Shaffer Guy Carpenter & Company, Inc. Horner Insurance Services, Inc., CMGA Independent Insurance Agents of Western Wisconsin Insurance Business Consultants, Inc. Insurance Innovators, Inc. J. Buschbach Insurance Agency James A. Roe, CPCU Joe Howse Joel P Ory & Kathleen Ory John Carriero & Sons, Inc. John H. Love John Latham Joseph & Sharon Timmons Joseph D. Timmons Len & Cynthia LoVullo Louis A. Williams & Associates Louis Mastos & Associates Louis T. Mastos & Associates LoVullo Associates, Inc., CMGA M. Thomas Ruke, Jr., CIW MacNeill Group, Inc., CMGA Markel Corporation Market Finders Insurance Corp., CMGA Erickson-Larsen, Inc. Midwestern General Agency, Inc., CMGA Morstan General Agency, Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Wesley C. Duesenberg, Sr. Mr. Thomas Rogan Mrs. Jennie Phillips Myron F. Steves & Co., CMGA NAPSLO Nautilus Insurance Group North Alabama Insurance, Inc. Occidental Fire & Casualty Co. of NC/Wilshire Insurance Co. Oklahoma General Agency Paul & Nancy Springman Penn-America Group Pennock Insurance, Inc. Peter and Randi Scobie Scobie Group, CMGA R.I.C. Insurance General Agency, Inc. Ray Johnston Risk Placement Services, Inc. Rob & Laura Giles Rollie & Mary Wiegers Ron Smedley Roush Insurance Services, Inc. RPS Lexington, CMGA Scottsdale Insurance Company Sea Coast Underwriters, Inc., CMGA Southern Cross Underwriters, CMGA Southern General Agency, Inc. Southern Insurance Underwriters, Inc., CMGA Specialty Risk Associates, Inc., CMGA Superior Underwriters – A Division of Grononger & Company, Inc. Texas Specialty Underwriters MacNeill Group, Inc., CMGA The Parks Group, Inc. The Southern General Agency, Inc. ★★ ★ Thomas Kuzma Thomas Ruke Topa Insurance Company U.S. Risk Insurance Group, Inc. U.S.A. Alliance United States Liability Insurance Company Victor Giordano Wes & Joanne Duesenberg, Jr. Wesley C. Duesenberg, Jr. Wesley C. Duesenberg, Sr. Western World Insurance Group Westphalen Insurance Services, Inc. Registration AAMGA members begin to arrive at the Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes Resort Sunday, stopping to register for the 85th Annual Meeting. EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS Our signatures on the globe represent our commitment to you, and to improving every day. Our aim is to innovate through customer-centric solutions and a focus on accessibility. These goals are evident in the everyday efforts of our Contract, Brokerage and Program divisions. So choose Western World and watch us exceed your expectations. westernworld.com | 201-847-8600 Contract, Brokerage & Program Divisions | (FOFSBM-JBCJMJUZr1SPEVDUT-JBCJMJUZr1SPQFSUZr1SPGFTTJPOBM-JBCJMJUZr$PNNFSDJBM"VUP AAMGA Daily News ★ Monday, May 23, 2011 11 Members win with WIN Magazine ach member of a company advertising in WIN Magazine will receive a ribbon that reads, “I WIN,” to wear on his or her badge during the Annual Meeting. “The ribbon represents more than the success of each of the individual members, it also means they work for one of the many companies that have supported the inaugural issue of WIN Magazine,” said Bernie Heinze, AAMGA Executive Director. “It’s AAMGA’s way of thanking all of those employees for their support and confidence in the E I WIN magazine.” WIN Magazine (WIN standing for Wholesale Insurance News) will be published in both print and electronic formats. Be sure to pick up your copy of the first WIN Magazine at this year’s Annual Meeting. Christa Shook of R.E. Chaix & Associates Insurance Brokers, Inc. (left) and Gayle Wall of Burlington Insurance Group (right) discuss ethics during the afternoon course, “Ethical Leaderhip in P&C Insurance.” ETHICS continued from page 1 activities and leave lasting legacies. Those who attended the session found it to be timely and valuable in many ways. Christa Shook, Senior Vice President of R.E. Chaix & Associates Insurance Brokers, Inc., in Irvine, CA, said the recent economic challenges are causing people to stick to, or go against, their long-held morals. “I think this marketplace has also challenged a lot of our industry, from agents to the companies, to push the envelope for a sale verses making everything clearer,” she said. “I know that hits every industry, but it’s been a challenge with our industry as well. Some people have changed the ethics slightly in order to keep food on their table.” Former AAMGA President Peter Scobie, CIW, Scobie Group, CMGA, Eau Claire, WI, said traditional ethical mandates can be applied to today’s business world. “In Catholic school they took the Ten Commandments — ‘Thou shalt not steel. Thou shalt not lie,’” he said. “That can be applied to how you treat your competitors, for instance. Some of our competitors have lied. A typical one, I think, is saying it’s the same coverage that we have when, in fact, we know it’s not the same coverage. It’s less coverage. That’s why it’s 10 percent or 20 percent less expensive and the agent and the insured are told it’s exactly the same.” Please Welcome the newest member of the family! It’s all in ONE place. Booth 27 & 28 4 Armstrong Road Shelton, CT 06484 203.402.0800 www.i-engineering.com 12 AAMGA Daily News ★ Monday, May 23, 2011 AAMGA Exhibitors & Booth Numbers Milliman, Inc. Consultants and Actuaries ........................................1 1550 Liberty Ridge Drive Suite 200 Wayne, PA 19087 (610) 975-8020 mike.blivess@milliman.com Scottsdale Insurance Company .............2 8877 N. Gainey Center Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85258 (480) 365-2021 webbk6@scottsdaleins.com Vertafore ................................................ 17 RiskMeter Online .................................. 23 Insurance Journal ................................. 31 1510 Klondike Road Suite 400 Conyers, GA 30094 (210) 340-5548 pmccall@vertafore.com 67 Broad St. 6th Floor Boston, MA 02109 (617) 737-4444 dmunson@cdsys.com 3570 Camino Del Rio N. Suite 200 San Diego, CA 92108 (800) 897-9965 hfrantz@insurancejournal.com Summit Business Media ....................... 18 Mutual Boiler Re ................................... 24 415 Thomas Stewart Way Stewartsville, NJ 08886 (408) 859-0893 cluke@sbmedia.com 1200 Atwater Drive Suite 250 Malvern, PA 19355 (610) 407-7804 samuel.broomer@mutualboilerre.com Montpelier US Insurance Company ............................................. 32 Priority Data Systems ........................... 19 Thomson Reuters....................................3 610 Operman Drive Eagan, MN 55123 (619) 450-4749 thomas.houck@thomsonreuters.com Overland Solutions, Inc. ....................... 25 5035 South 110th St. Omaha, NE 68137 (402) 590-2506 jdunn@pdomaha.com ReSource Pro ........................................ 20 York Risk Services Group, Inc................4 99 Cherry Hill Road Parsippany, NJ 07054 (877) 927-2255 rick.ruiz@yorkrsg.com Insurance Finance Corporation .............5 P.O. Box 315 Des Moines, IA 50306 (515) 223-0519 banstoetter@ifcorp.biz Prime Insurance Company ................... 16 303 W Madison St. Suite 2075 Chicago, IL 60606 (800) 456-4576 jackm@primeis.com 6263 North Scottsdale Road Suite 300 Scottsdale, AZ 85250 (480) 306-8300 bob.karr@montpelierus.com 1180 6th Ave. 16th Floor New York, NY 10036 (212) 297-3130 patrick@resourcepro.com 10975 Grandview Drive Suite 400 Overland Park, KS 66210 (913) 451-3222 mario.fiel@olsi.net Bermuda Insurance Market.................. 33 PO Box HM 2911 Hamilton HMLX (441) 292-9829 fox@bii.bm Burton Claim Service, Inc. .................... 26 2941 Cypress Creek Road Suite 101 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 (407) 774-4227 tom.moncello@burtonclaimservice.com Oracle Corporation ............................... 36 1567 Mount Vernon Road Suite 200 Atlanta, GA 30338 (770) 393-1144 jlevey@mcyber.com ISO ......................................................... 29 Click2Bind ............................................. 37 545 Washington Blvd. Jersey City, NJ 07310 (201) 469-2435 vconti@iso.com 213 Racine Drive Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 762-6426 jose@click2bind.com Virtual MGA, LLC ................................... 22 Vantage Agora, Inc................................ 30 2303 RR 620 South Suite 135, Box 297 Austin, TX 78734 (512) 535-4363 jake.hampton@virtualmga.com 7441 Center St. Suite 103 Mentor, OH 44060 (440) 391-3141 sudhir@vantageagora.com American Modern Insurance Group ................................................... 38 Management Cybernetics International Inc.................................. 21 5556 Tenyson Pkwy. Plano, TX 75024 (770) 910-8395 jeffrey.costley@oracle.com 7000 Midland Blvd. Amelia, OH 45102 (513) 943-7200 mgregory@amig.com Insurance Services Program Administrators Program Managers MGUs/MGAs Wholesalers If you are seeking an insurer for your program, talk to us! What does Frates Insurance do? We locate an insurer for your program. What types of programs? $GPLWWHGDQGQRQDGPLWWHGPDLQVWUHDPQLFKHRUGLI¿FXOW:&Ɣ'2Ɣ(2Ɣ0HG0DOƔ3URIHVVLRQDO/LDELOLW\Ɣ3DFNDJHƔ $XWRƔ*/Ɣ3URSHUW\Ɣ/LTXRU/LDELOLW\$VEHVWRV$EDWHPHQWƔ3ROOXWLRQƔ&RQWUDFWRUVƔ3HWUROHXP6WRUDJH7DQN&RQWUDFWRUVƔ $UELWUDWRUVDQG0HGLDWRUV3URIHVVLRQDO/LDELOLW\Ɣ3XEOLF2I¿FLDOV/HJDO/LDELOLW\Ɣ$UFKLWHFWVDQG(QJLQHHUV3URIHVVLRQDO/LDELOLW\ Ɣ(QYLURQPHQWDOƔ0HGLFDO7HVWLQJ/DERUDWRULHV3URIHVVLRQDO/LDELOLW\Ɣ%LR7HFKDQG$JUD7HFK3URGXFWV/LDELOLW\Ɣ5DLOURDGƔ 7RXU2SHUDWRUV3URIHVVLRQDO/LDELOLW\DQGPXFKPRUH &DOORUHPDLOIRUDIDVWUHSO\ 'HVPRQG%RKDQ933URJUDPV (203) 252-2545 GERKDQ#FOIUDWHVQHW $O$PDWR6HQLRU9LFH3UHVLGHQW (203) 252-2540 DPDWR#FOIUDWHVQHW 9LVLWXVDWZZZFOIUDWHVQHW AAMGA Daily News ★ Monday, May 23, 2011 13 Thanks to Annual Meeting sponsors AMGA would like to thank the following companies for their generous contributions as Annual Meeting sponsors. A Platinum Scottsdale Insurance Company Western World Insurance Group Gold American Modern Insurance Group Silver A.M. Best Company Colony Specialty Thanks to AAMGA University golf sponsors AMGA would like to thank the following companies for their generous contributions to this year's AAMGA University golf outing. A Accolade Management American Modern Insurance Group AmWINS Transportation Underwriters, Inc., CMGA Bell & Clements, Ltd. Century Surety Insurance Colodny, Fass, Talenfield, Karlinsky & Abate, P.A. Colonial General Ins. Colony Specialty Insurance Forest Insurance Facilities, CMGA Gibbs Hartley Cooper Hallmark Specialty Insurance Co. Hanover Excess & Surplus Inc., CMGA Hudson Insurance Group Hull & Company Jimcor Agency, Inc., CMGA LoVullo Associates, CMGA MacNeill Group, Inc., CMGA Markel Corporation Max Specialty Insurance Company Meadowbrook Insurance Group Nautilus Insurance Group Penn-America Group RCA Insurance Group Risk Placement Services, Inc. Ron Rothert Insurance Services Scottsdale Insurance Company SeaCoast Underwriters, Inc., CMGA Specialty Risk Associates, Inc. Trans World Facilities, Inc. United States Liability Insurance Group US Risk Insurance Group, Inc. Western World Insurance Group XS Brokers Insurance Agency, Inc. Mark your calendar June 24-25 — AAMGA Committee Day, Chicago, IL Aug. 18-19 — AAMGA University Weekend West, Scottsdale Plaza Resort, Scottsdale, AZ Sept. 22-24 — 20th Annual UFO Meeting, Nashville, TN March 3-6, 2012 — AAMGA Automation & Technology Management Conference, Atlanta, GA May 6-9, 2012 — AAMGA 86th Annual Meeting, San Antonio, TX AAMGA Exhibitors & Booth Numbers Insurance Licensing Services Of America, Inc................ 40 111 N. Railroad St. Groesbeck, TX 76642 (254) 729-8002 tswanson@ilsainc.com Western World Insurance Group ..............................................6-15 400 Parsons Pond Drive Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417 (201) 847-8600 l.leone@westernworld.com I-Engineering, Inc .........................27-28 Nautilus Insurance Group............41-44 4 Armstrong Road Shelton, CT 06484 (203) 402-0800 n.kapoor@i-engineering.com 7233 E. Butherus Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85260 (480) 367-5422 sbentley@nautilus-ins.com Epic-Premier Insurance Solutions, Inc. ............................34-35 P.O. Box 91960 Lakeland, FL 33804 (863) 686-5110 mcross@epic-premier.com 14 AAMGA Daily News ★ Monday, May 23, 2011 Dining in style at the Ritz Carlton xperience a wealth of dining options throughout the Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes — where the cuisine is as diverse as the property itself. Savor the culinary mastery from James Beard Foundation’s Award-Winning Chef Norman Van Aken and all the other delicious temptations that the eateries provide. Unwind in the relaxed surroundings of The Vineyard Grill, an excellent steakhouse featuring a selection of prime meats, mouth-watering side dishes and fresh seafood complemented by a selection of great American wines. Featuring chef Norman Van Aken’s acclaimed “New World Cuisine” as the culinary centerpiece, the restaurant follows the Colonial Italian Palazzo-inspired design of the hotel and features marble floors and E walls in warm roses and tans, all completed by breathtaking views of the golf course. Dine al fresco at Bleu, the poolside restaurant and bar, that features classic burgers and salads with fun twists. Take a break from the sun and try one of its frozen drinks, prepared only with the freshest ingredients to indulge and cool your palate. The Lobby Lounge is set in a casual elegant atmosphere, perfect ambiance to enjoy afternoon tea, cocktails or light fare while enjoying the view. The inspired clubhouse fare and great selection of draught beer and scotches at Fairways Pub provide the perfect finishing touch to a day on the links. The Turn, which features menu items to go, is perfect for golfers on the run. The Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes offers AAMGA members a wide array of delicious options when it comes to dining at the Annual Meeting. Take a tour of Grande Lake or guests who want to experience a taste of old Florida’s natural preserves, Adventure Experiences’ interpretive eco-tours offer guided canoe or kayak tours of Shingle Creek, the Headwaters to the Florida Everglades. Guests can learn about the history of Shingle Creek and observe the native species such as alligators, bald eagles, osprey and barred owls in their natural habitat. And don’t forget a tour along Grande Lake. F The morning row is offered Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday starting at 8 a.m. The cost is $20 per person woith a maximum of 10 guests per session. Emotion Kayaking on Grande Lake Enjoy fresh air and the scenic views while paddling on Grande Lake. Kayaking on Grande Lake is offered seven days a week from sunrise to sunset. The cost is $20 per person with a maximum of 10 guests per session. Emotion Eco-Tour on Shingle Creek Fish Feedings Traveling back in time on Shingle Creek, guests will enjoy a two-hour Guided Emotion Eco-Tour. Water guides will tell you the story of Shingle Creek and all its inhabitants as you navigate your own canoe, while paddling through scenic Old Florida. The cost is $60 per person and there is a maximum 20 guests per excursion. Children, 17 and under, are free with an adult admission. Grande Lake is the perfect location to spot some of Florida’s native fish species such as the Florida largemouth bass, bowfin, the Florida spotted gar and bluegill. These fish can be found in most native bodies of water of Florida and many man-made ponds. You can feed these fish daily at 1 p.m. Meet on the Ritz-Carton pool deck in front of Bleu. Lady Bug Release Morning Row on Grande Lake Wake up and grab your paddle. Take in a different cardiovascular workout as you paddle your way around the Grande Lake. Spend the next hour working out at your own intensity while having the opportunity to see herons, egrets, and osprey as they begin their day. Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 1 p.m., meet at the Ritz-Carlton Lakeside Terrace. Self-Guided Nature Walks Explore the wildlife and flora that surrounds the resort. Pick-up map from the Ritz-Carlton Concierge or pool attendant. If we e can make ke it here… re… NASA Time-Elapsed Photo of Hurricane Andrew, 1992 . . . you get the picture 'PSOFBSMZGPVSEFDBEFT$PMPEOZ'BTT5BMFOGFME,BSMJOTLZ"CBUFIBTTFSWFE OBUJPOBMBOEHMPCBMJOTVSBODFDMJFOUTXIPDPVOUPOVTUPTVDDFTTGVMMZSFQSFTFOUUIFN 3BOLFEBTPOFPGUIFUPQ6OJUFE4UBUFTJOTVSBODFSFHVMBUPSZMBXmSNTGPSPVSMFHBM FYQFSUJTFBOEBCJMJUZXFBMTPIBOEMFHPWFSONFOUBMDPOTVMUJOHDPNNFSDJBMMJUJHBUJPO DMBTTBDUJPOBOECBEGBJUIEFGFOTFBENJOJTUSBUJWFMBXBOEJOTVSBODFUSBOTBDUJPOT 8FJOWJUFZPVUPMFBSOIPXPVSFYQFSJFODFEGVMMTFSWJDFUFBNDBOTFSWFBMMPGZPVS JOTVSBODFOFFETFWFOJOUIFUPVHIFTUPGDMJNBUFT *OTVSBODFt3FJOTVSBODFt'PSNBUJPO'JOBODJOHt.FSHFST"DRVJTJUJPOTt.BSLFU$POEVDUt'JOBODJBM&YBNJOBUJPOTt'JOBODJBM*TTVFTt4VSQMVT-JOFTt#VTJOFTT-JOFT$BQJUBM*TTVFT 3BUF'PSN3VMF'JMJOHTt1PSUGPMJP5SBOTGFSTt"TTVNQUJPOTt"HFOU"HFODZ.BUUFSTt.BSLFU&YQBOTJPO8JUIESBXBMt4FMG*OTVSBODFt$BQUJWFT3JTL3FUFOUJPO(SPVQT www.cftlawDPN Telephone: +1 954 492 4010 *OTVSBODF3FHVMBUPSZ-BXt(PWFSONFOUBM$POTVMUJOHt*OTVSBODF-JUJHBUJPOt$PNNFSDJBM-JUJHBUJPO Celebrating Integrity Adco General Insurance Agency was founded more than 40 years ago on the principle of “do what we say we’ll do, when we say we’ll do it.” This direct approach—along with an emphasis on open communication—makes the relationship with Western Heritage Insurance Company work. Adco underwriters depend on the Western Heritage team to listen and provide straight answers. “Western Heritage’s approachability makes it easy to do business.” —Adco Underwriting Manager Susan Throop When you work with Western Heritage, expect a true partnership. Expect Integrity. westernheritageins.com Pictured: Underwriting Manager Susan Throop and President Dick Thomas Our mission isn’t to pursue growth. Growth helps us pursue our mission. PartnerRe has grown its resources. We have the capital and the capabilities in virtually every risk class and geographic region to offer customized solutions and significant capacity. We offer this value to our clients within our established risk management limits. We do this because we want to honor our commitment to being a financially secure reinsurance partner – providing continuity of offer and preserving the certainty of our ability to pay claims – no matter what the environment. And that’s a mission worth pursuing. 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