Alabama Independent 2017 Issue 2 by PHCC-WI

2017 - ISSUE 2

Summer Sun, Summer Fun

2017 YOUNG AGENTS SUMMER CONFERENCE

July 27 – 29, 2017 • Pensacola Beach, FL Cold Calling & Networking in Today’s World Jason Cass – Agent The Insurance Alliance

Niche Marketing & Selling to Millennials Erin Nutting – Principal Agent Integrity Insurance Services

Trust matters.

Construction

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That’s UFG.

To learn more about UFG, visit ufgSolutions.com

Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2

With a range of insurance coverages, extensive loss control resources, expert claims knowledge and local service from an independent agent like you, EMC offers an insurance program designed specifically for light manufacturers. It’s just one of the many reasons why you and your commercial clients Count on EMC ®. SANDI DIXON, CPCU, AU Commercial Lines Underwriting Manager EMC Birmingham Branch

HEAVY-DUTY INSURANCE

FOR LIGHT MANUFACTURERS. BIRMINGHAM BRANCH OFFICE

www.emcins.com

Phone: 800-239-2005 | Home Office: Des Moines, IA

FIRSTSTEP

AIIA thanks the following sponsors for their support and participation in the First STEP program. AIIA’s First STEP program is your first step to involvement with independent agents in Alabama. For more sponsorship information or to sign up as a sponsor, please contact Nancy Crowe at 205-326-4129 or visit our website at www.aiia.org.

$20,000

The Sheffield Fund Alabama Insurance Management Services

Save The Date AIIA Events 2017 - 2018

Young Agents Summer Conference July 27-29 Hilton Pensacola

$15,000

Young Agents and AIIA Committee Day August 16-17 AIIA Office

$10,000

2nd Annual AGCAIIA Coastal Bay Bash September 14 Bayfront Park

YOUR NAME

Cornerstone National Insurance

$7,500

National Security Fire & Casualty

$5,000

Alabama Trucking Association WCSI Fund Centauri Insurance Progressive/ASI

$2,500

Alabama Self-Insured Work Comp Fund AlaCOMP Auto-Owners Insurance Berkley Southeast Insurance Group CRC Insurance Services Donegal Insurance Group EMC Insurance Companies Enterprise Rent-A-Car Frankenmuth Insurance Genesee General HICI/Haulers Insurance Company Inc. Penn National Sentry Insurance Southern Insurance Underwriters/Siuprem Swiss RE Travelers Insurance Company TheZenith

We Thank You! 4

AIIA

Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2

Big I PAC Golf Tournament September 19 Prattville Country Club I – Day October 11 University of Alabama Fall Education Conference & Trade Fair October 18 AIIA Office Hosted by Small & Rural Agents Committee MIIA 2nd Annual Clay Shoot November 9 Lower Wetumpka Shotgun Sports Club BIIA Gala January 26 LINCPoint

, x a l e R

a m a b a l A

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got you covered.

When unpredictable weather strikes, residents of Alabama need more than the usual kind of insurance products. Count on Centauri Insurance to provide peace of mind when your customers need it the most. Homeowners I Dwelling Fire I Tenants I Flood

centauriinsurance.com

2017 Issue 2 | Alabama Independent

alabama

2017 • ISSUE 2

INDEPENDENT

Alabama Independent Insurance Agents, Inc. 141 London Parkway Phone: 205-326-4129 | Fax: 205-326-3086 | www.aiia.org Executive Vice President: Bill Sager, CIC Editor: Michelle McKee

CONTENTS

LEADERSHIP & STAFF AIIA OFFICERS President : Jeff Hogg, CPIA, CLCS Tuscaloosa President Elect: Haig Wright, CIC Jasper Secretary/Treasurer: Steve Sprayberry, CIC Sylacauga

State National Director: Jeff Grice, CIC Jasper Immediate Past President: Richard Pardue, CIC Birmingham

4 4 8 10 12 16 20 22 23 24 28 30 32 33 34 38 38

First Step Sponsors AIIA Save The Date Letter from the AIIA President, Jeff Hogg, CPIA, CLCS Letter from the AIIA EVP, Bill Sager, CIC Alabama Independent Insurance Agents Legislative Conference 8th Annual Excalibur Education Clay Shoot Young Agents Chair Report, C.D. Denson CIC 2017 Young Agents Summer Conference Preview Young Agents Conference Schedule of Events/ Registration Form History of the Alabama Department of Insurance Pat Owens 18th Annual Big I PAC Golf Classic Registration Ted’s Tablet Education Calendar Webinars Industry News Seen & Heard Welcome New Members

BOARD OF DIRECTORS District 1 Larry Crosby, CIC - Brewton Michael Sullivan, CIC - Foley C. Todd Thomas - Montrose District 2 Steve Mullis, CPIA - Montgomery W. Keith Nobles, CIC - Wetumpka Jean Ann Rittenour-Donley, CISR, CIC, CPIA, CPIW - Montgomery Ray Smith - Deatsville District 3 John H. Dark, CIC, AAI - Alexander City Brad Young, CPIA - Anniston Boyd McGehee – Talladega District 4 Steve Hoggle, CIC - Guntersville Wayne Walker - Hamilton Josh Goe, CLCL – Madison District 5 Kelly Aday - Lexington Susanne Grimwood, CIC, CISR - Huntsville Connie Waldrip, CISR - Huntsville

ADVERTISER INDEX AGC Alabama 21 Allstar Financial Group 36 Amalgamated Ins. Underwriters 7 Anderson and Murison 20 Berkley Southeast Insurance Group 11 Berkshire Hathaway Guard Insurance Companies 32 Burns & Wilcox 9 Centauri Insurance 5 EMC Insurance Companies 3

Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2

FCCI 35 Genesee General 15 HICI 39 M.J. Kelly Company-Alabama 34 SIUPREM 30 Southern Insurance Underwriters, Inc. 40 Summit Consulting 18 The National Security Group 8 UFG 2

District 6 Evelyn Burchfield, CIC, CRM, AAI, AIS Birmingham Russell Greenhalgh, CIC - Birmingham Mary Hall - Birmingham Bill Jacka, Jr. - Birmingham Margaret Ann Pyburn, CPIA - Birmingham District 7 Kevin Myrick - Tuscaloosa Lin Moore - Tuscaloosa Young Agents C.D. Denson - Homewood Past President Jere Peak - Selma AIIA STAFF Executive Vice President: Bill Sager, CIC Director of Education: Ted Kinney, CIC, CPCU, ARM, CPIA, AAI, AU, CRIS, AINS Director of Communications & Member Services: Michelle McKee Director of Education Administration: Tangerie Underwood, CISR, CPIA E & O Administrator: Carol Hunt, CPIA Accounting Supervisor: Irene Smyly Director of Meetings & Events: Nancy Crowe RLI Administrator: Tangerie Underwood, CISR, CPIA Printing & Mailroom Coordinator: Waymon McIntosh Office Manager: Sarah Walker

PUBLICATION INFORMATION The Alabama Independent is the official magazine of the Alabama Independent Insurance Agents, Inc. Association (AIIA), and is published quarterly by Blue Water Publishers, LLC. AIIA does not necessarily endorse any of the companies advertising in this publication or the views of its writers. AIIA reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to reject advertising that does not meet AIIA qualifications or which may detract from its business, professional or ethical standards. The publisher cannot assume responsibility for claims made by its advertisers, content provided by the editor, or the opinions expressed by contributing authors. For information on advertising, contact Eric Johnson, Blue Water Publishers, 414-708-2059 or eric@bluewaterpublishers.org.

::: hotel insurance program

::: ::::: :: y::':: :: ::c: f:: moree Program Highlights: ::::::::::::::::::::: :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

(800) 613-2600 www.AIU-USA.com 2017 Issue 2 | Alabama Independent

Jeff Hogg, CPIA, CLCS

AIIA President

As my term as your AIIA President comes to a close, I am reminded of all the hard work of the past presidents before me. Since serving on the executive committee, I have reaffirmed my belief that we have one of the best associations in the country. This not only starts with our leaders, but our committees and our staff. I cannot say enough great things about the people I have worked so closely with over the past few years. It takes everyone being unified and working together for the greater goal that truly makes our association work so well. I sincerely appreciate each and every one of you who have given your time and resources to this association.

I also have to commend our Excalibur committee for hosting another successful Clay Shoot. Each year this event has become one that our membership really enjoys and looks forward to, all while raising money to help award deserving students a scholarship toward their growth of becoming a part of our industry. In closing, there is a bright future for our association. Your incoming president, Haig Wright, has already been working hard to promote the 2018 Convention at the Grand Hotel in Point Clear. I am hearing lots of positive feedback about this, so I encourage everyone to rally behind your incoming president and executive committee to make this a success. Per the theme of this year’s convention, “Put Your Time Where Your Heart Is,” I can promise you that your executive committee is doing just that.

For Comprehensive Mobile Homeowners Insurance, put your trust in a company that has been insuring homes for over 50 years. National Security Can Provide You With: • • • • • • • •

$100,000 Maximum Policy Limits AAIS Special Form 3 Policy 15% New & Renewal Commission Partnership Profit Sharing Fast Online Policy Issuance Direct Contract with National Security Replacement Cost Option Discounts for New Home and 50+ Age of Insured • Easy Payment Options National Security has provided competitive, affordable insurance to policyholders for over 50 years, but we also provide a lot for our agents, with competitive commissions, excellent customer service and experienced company adjusters. As an admitted Southeastern based regional company, National Security prides itself on fast, efficient service from a friendly small town company, and online access for all agents, providing fast quotes, online policy issuance, online dec page printing, and real-time policy information. Find out more by calling Sharon at 1-800-239-2358 x213 or visit nationalsecuritygroup.com.

Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2

Elba, Alabama

COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE IS OUR MIDDLE NAME. Only Burns & Wilcox has the depth and breadth of experience to deliver the right solutions right away.

burnsandwilcox.com

Birmingham, Alabama | 205.988.9650 | toll free 800.888.1179 | fax 205.988.3073

Bill Sager, CIC

AIIA Executive Vice President Most of us who have been around a while would probably agree the past 25 years have brought change to our industry we never imagined. Some of us go back to the day where rates were calculated from a large, wellworn binder called, appropriately, the rate manual. You started with a base rate and applied any number of factors, depending on the risk, and hoped you got close to the correct premium. For some carriers, we typed our own policies (and I hated to have to make a correction on the duplicate copies with all the carbon paper). We were excited and maybe a little overwhelmed at the first fax machine we used and the first basic management system. About the time we began to settle in with our new found “technology” some guru someplace brought up the term “paperless.” Our first thought was no way….not going to happen. Well, for many, it has happened and for others, it is still in the process. As we manage our respective businesses today we try to take a peek into the future to see what might be happening a little down the road. Good luck with that. I’m not sure any of us would have seen the “new” approach of peer to peer insurance or the idea of getting a homeowners quote with only five or six basic pieces of information. As with most things, time will tell if these new attitudes and companies will make any waves in the industry. There are several things about these new ideas of providing insurance coverage that causes one to scratch their head in disbelief and I’ll leave it at that for now. As with most new ideas and programs, time will tell if they not only are accepted by the buying public but can survive the financial stress of complying with their contractual requirements.

Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2

With all the changes, some good some maybe not so good, the results we seek today are the same as they were 25 years ago (or longer). Continuing to meet the needs of our customers, providing them with the coverage they need based on their specific situation still drives what we do. It doesn’t matter if you rated it from a manual and typed the policy or pulled the rate from the “cloud” and communicated with the client by text message. The independent agency distribution system is still the most complete way to meet the needs of the buying public, be it personal or business insurance. We continue to look for ways to promote our system and encourage consumers to seek the advice, expertise and options available through our distribution channel. In this issue we have a summary of the history of our Department of Insurance. Our association has always had a great working relationship with Commissioner Jim Ridling and his staff as well as the commissioners before him. We appreciate the opportunity to work with the Department as industry issues surface that can affect insurance companies, agents or consumers. As the old saying goes… “their plate stays full” with the many different divisions they oversee. I have a copy of the complete document provided by the DOI outlining the history of the department and will send it to you upon your request. The Young Agents Conference will once again be held at the Hilton Pensacola Beach July 27 through 29. This is going to be a sales driven conference. The speakers are successful young agents that are building books of business utilizing social media, niche marketing, networking, cold calling and other proven methods of writing business. It will be an informative and challenging event. All of your staff at the AIIA office continues to work to support you, our members, in any way we can. We value your feedback. Until next time...when you might here some of us “old heads” say “well I remember when”...

PROUD SPONSOR OF THE 121ST ANNUAL AIIA CONVENTION & TRADESHOW At Berkley Southeast Insurance Group, we take a broad approach to underwriting for best in class businesses, primarily in the construction, light manufacturing, hospitality, real estate, mercantile, wholesale, and business services industries. By deploying resources locally, we build distinct territory knowledge and expertise, allowing us to offer solutions and service to small and mid-size commercial customers. Our Claim team is committed to providing superior claim service, and getting our customers back-in-business quickly when a covered loss does occur, earning us a 97.6% customer satisfaction score in 2016.

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A M

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2017 Issue 2 | Alabama Independent

The Young Agents hosted the 30th Annual Legislative Conference and it was a huge success! Chairmen Charlie Bailey, Jim Murphree, and CD Denson had a great lineup of speakers. Sen. Bill Holtzclaw applauded the group on the longevity of the conference and encouraged them going forward. He spoke about a variety of legislation that elected officials have been working on during the session. He said that establishing and maintaining a relationship with them can prove to be productive. He also writes a blog on his website, www.district2.us. House Rep. Jim Carns touched on issues that were being discussed in the House. He mentioned that a range of 1,000 bills would be introduced and approximately 120-125 would be passed in this session. After his presentation, Legislative Chair Jim Murphree presented him with the prestigious “Lawmaker of the Year” award. Lobbyist Marty Connors said he not only keeps up on state and national news, but he reads news around the world since world news can affect the political environment in the states. He encouraged the group to remain active in the political process as the 2018 state elections gear up.

Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2

Top: Charlie Bailey, Kevin Myrick and Rep. Gerald Allen; Middle: Jim Murphree presented Representative Jim Carns with the “Lawmaker of the Year” award. Jim served in the House of Representatives from 1990-2006 and was elected to the Jefferson County Commissioners office in 2006 for one term before returning to the House in 2012. Jim has always been supportive of AIIA and pro-business legislation; Bottom: Margaret Ann Pyburn, Ed Duett, Mary Hall;

Top: Haig Wright, Rep. Danny Garrett, Joe Fuller, Rep. James Buskey and Jim Murphree; Top Right: Delicious lunch!; Bottom Right: Sen. Greg Reed, Joe Fuller & State Auditor Jim Zeigler; Bottom Left: Lobbyist Marty Connors and Charlie Bailey; Top Left: Bill Jacka and Trevor Collins

Continued on Page 14 >> 2017 Issue 2 | Alabama Independent

Top: Young Agents: Nicole Stacy, Travis Dobbs, Alison Ray, Nicole Marcum, Vannessa Smith, Charlie Bailey and Jerry Dubose; Middle Left: Reyn Norman & Angie Waggoner; Middle Center: Charlie Bailey and Senator Bill Holtzclaw; Middle Right: Rep. Ken Johnson & Bill Sager; Bottom: Haig Wright, Rep. Connie Rowe, Senator Jabo Waggoner, Jeff Grice and Jim Murphree

Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2

Special Thanks To Our Sponsors The Sheffield Fund Alabama Insurance Management Services Cornerstone National Insurance National Security Fire & Casualty Alabama Trucking Association WCSI Fund Centauri Specialty Insurance Progressive/ASI Alabama Self-Insured Work Comp Fund

Rep. Howard Sanderford, Michael Vance & Larry Burkman

AlaCOMP Auto-Owners Insurance Berkley Southeast Insurance Group CRC Insurance Services Donegal Insurance Group EMC Insurance Companies Enterprise Rent-A-Car Frankenmuth Insurance Genesee General HICI/Haulers Insurance Company Sentry Insurance Southern Insurance Underwriters/Siuprem Travelers Insurance Company TheZenith

2017 Issue 2 | Alabama Independent

Boom Boom

Blast! Agents, company reps and outdoorsmen and women gathered on Friday, April 21st at Selwood Farms for the 8th Annual Excalibur Education Clay Shoot. It was a beautiful and rain free day for all 14 teams shooting. Fellowships began at registration and then carried over with Whiskers famous BBQ luncheon. After the group had their Safety meeting, teams of four rode carts around the course to their designated starting station. The day ended with a pizza reception, door prizes and lots of laughs. Players were encouraged to participate in the Cotton Ball Drop on Station #12 for a chance to win a ½ day Quail Hunt. The winner was Caro Manning (Johnson & Johnson) who happened to win this last year. Can we say…Sharp Shooter! The Excalibur Education Foundation was created to give a college student majoring in Insurance or Risk Management a $2,500 scholarship. Over the years, the success of the Clay Shoot has grown and so has the scholarships. Over the last few years, the Excalibur Foundation Board has awarded additional scholarships and gives praises to you all for the success! The Excalibur winners are invited to the Young Agents Conference at the Hilton Pensacola in July and presented with the Capps/Calhoun Scholarship.

Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2

First Place Team: The Sheffield Fund: Jeremy Giadrosich, Todd Roberts, Jason O’Rear and Casey Bentley Second Place Team: Troy University: Ben Hughes, Tyler Hickman and Hayes Spicer Best Shooter: Casey Bentley (Rux Carter Insurance)

Thanks to all our event sponsors! Lunch Sponsor: McGriff, Seibels & Williams Shot Gun Shells: Mark Calhoun Shot Gun Sponsor: AIMS Best Shooter: Excalibur Education Foundation Winner Awards: Excalibur Education Foundation Snacks & Reception: The Sheffield Fund Volunteers: Brenda McNeill, Christy Pender, Jackie Harbuck, Joanne Reed, John Petrusnek, Kay Hall, Mary Hall, Neal Lankford, Shelby West and Vannessa Smith

Opposite Page: Brian Smith shooting; Top: FCCI Team (Clay Smith, Warren Askew, Keith Harrelson and Jameson Carden); Middle: J&J Team (Jeremy Henderson, Jeremy West, Baxter Collins and Caro Manning); Bottom Left: Ladies Team (Susie Wagner, Vickie Fuller, Ashely Wright and Joni Holt); Bottom Right: Casey Bentley showing Todd Roberts and Jeremy Giadrosich how itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s done

2017 Issue 2 | Alabama Independent

Door Prizes AFCO / Prime Rate Premium Finance Co. Alabama Insurance Management Services/ AIMS Berkley Southeast Insurance Group Donegal Insurance Group Genesee General HICI/ Haulers Insurance Company, Inc. Progressive/ASI RPS/Risk Placement Services Southern Insurance Underwriters/Siuprem Wright-Sprayberry Insurance

www.summitholdings.com Policies are underwritten by Bridgeﬁeld Casualty Insurance Company and Bridgeﬁeld Employers Insurance Company, authorized insurers in AL, AR, FL, GA, IN, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN and TX. ©2017 Summit Consulting LLC | 2310 Commerce Point Drive, Lakeland, FL 33801

Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2

Station Sponsors

Far Left: Montgomery IIA Team: Bill Sager, David Peel, Anthony Peel and Jennifer Summerlin; Top Left: New Member IronTrust teaming up with Derrell Winter of SIU; Bottom Left: Raul Mercado from Donegal shooting with Chris Hoggle and Stephen Hilson; Above: They had a blast…Troy Team Ben Hughes, Hayes Spicer and Tyler Hickman

Alabama Public Auto Insurance Agency Alabama Retail Comp Alabama Self-Insured Work Comp Fund AlaCOMP Anchor Pardue Insurance The Argos Group Berkley Southeast Insurance Group Cobbs Allen Fitts Agency Fountain, Parker, Harbarger & Associates Genesee General Great American Insurance Company Jim Murphree Insurance Agency Progressive/ASI RPS/Risk Placement Services South Shore Insurance, LLC Southern Insurance Underwriters/Siuprem Stead & Fuller Thames Batre’, Ltd. WorkersFirst CompFund TheZenith

ONLINE or CLASSROOM COURSES

“You are the Face of Insurance” “You’re not just an account manager or an agent or a producer—you are a client relationship manager. You’re the face of insurance for your clients.” —Teresa C. Sheppard, CIC, CISR, AAI, ACSR, CPIW, AIS National Outstanding CSR of the Year

The CISR Program provides the best training and education available. Earn the CISR designation by passing 5 courses, or pass all 9 and become a CISR Elite.

www.TheNationalAlliance.com or 800-633-2165

2017 Issue 2 | Alabama Independent

C.D. Denson, CIC Chair Report

As I look back over the past two years that I have served as Chair of the Alabama Young Agents Committee, our group has accomplished so much. The future, however, of the Alabama Young Agents, is what I am more excited about. Our Young Agents understand that we are the future of our industry and without our participation and leadership within our association there would be a significant void. We have a wave of new leadership that is ready to take over the reins and guide us to new heights. In my last letter, I encouraged our Young Agents Committee to start being creative with new ideas of how we can create value within our association by doing new events and also by improving the events we currently put on. I am proud to say we have done just that. At the end of May we put on a cyber-related Lunch and Learn taught by Gary Warner and it was fantastic. A very fitting topic as it relates to the cyber threats companies face on a day-to-day basis.

Alabama Producers

Now to the staple of our Young Agents Committee is our Young Agents Conference July 27 – July 29, once again at the Hilton Pensacola. If you have a young producer in your office this conference is a must attend event. We have Jason Cass and Erin Nutting as our program and this years’ agenda is all about sales. We are going to split up our agents in half with one group meeting with Jason and the other group with Erin. This will give the agent a more interactive experience with the presenters. Jason’s topic will be on Cold Calling/Networking in today’s world and Erin will discuss how to build a millennial clientele as well as personal branding/niche marketing. Jason and Erin both are home run speakers and will bring so much value to not only brand new producers but those that have been in the business a long time. We have once again secured the Molly Ringwalds band for their world renowned performance which will be on Friday night. The icing on the cake is we have our current Big “I” President Spencer Houldin to talk to us at the closing banquet Saturday night. This is a knockout event!!!! The last thing I will leave you with is spread the word about the Young Agents of Alabama. Other agents who are not involved and giving back to the industry, which provides our living, are missing out in a big way.

Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2

Providing Alabama Independent Insurance Agents the best in workersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; compensation for contractors Let us be your ally in risk management

2017 Issue 2 | Alabama Independent

2017 YOUNG AGENTS SUMMER CONFERENCE Join us for our Annual Young Agents Summer Conference! This event is open to anyone in the independent insurance industry that is 40 and under, new to the business or young at heart. Attendees are encouraged to bring their families to join in on the fun and festivities.

SPEAKERS

Cold Calling & Networking in Today’s World Jason Cass – Agent The Insurance Alliance

Niche Marketing & Selling to Millennials

Erin Nutting – Agent Principal Integrity Insurance Services

Spencer Houldin IIABA Chair

Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2

Sales Training by agents like us… Roundtables with Markets… National IIABA updates… Corn Hole Tournament… Group Networking Dinners… Hospitality… Molly Ringwald Band… Oh My…Don’t Miss OUT!!!

2017 ANNUAL YOUNG AGENTS SUMMER CONFERENCE July 27 – July 29, 2017 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Thursday, July 27 6:30p Friday, July 28 8:00a – 11:15a 11:30a – 12:30p Afternoon & Evening 9:00p – 11:30p Saturday, July 29 9:00a – 12:15a 12:30a – 1:30p 1:30p 7:30p

Registration Desk Opens 2:00p Welcome Reception & Dinner Registration & Continental Breakfast 7:30a Grp A: Cold Calling & Networking in Today’s World-Jason Cass Grp B: Niche Marketing & Selling to Millennials - Erin Nutting Company Roundtables (Breaks: 9:30a-9:45a & 11:15a-11:30a) Lunch on Your Own/Cornhole Tournament//Dinner on Your Own The Molly Ringwalds Band Registration & Brunch opens at 8:30a Grp A: Niche Marketing & Selling to Millennials - Erin Nutting Grp B: Cold Calling & Networking in Today’s World - Jason Cass Company Roundtables (Breaks: 10:30a-10:45a & 12:15a – 12:30a) Lunch on Your Own – Cornhole Tournament on Beach Closing Reception & Awards Banquet with Spencer Houldin, IIABA Chairman

HILTON Pensacola Beach Gulf Front Hotel

CALL: (850) 916-2999 FOR RESERVATIONS/GROUP CODE: AYO

Run of House/Standard: $209/room/night – single/double 1-Bedroom Suite: $269 room/night Gulf Front: $219/room/night – single/double 2-bedroom suite: $299 room/night (Tax & SRIA Fees: 14.55% total (Subject to change) (Check-in: 4 p.m. Check-out: 11 a.m.)

HOTEL RESERVATION CUT-OFF DATE: June 26, 2017 *Online reservations: www.hiltonpensacolabeach.com

Please type or print clearly.

REGISTRATION FORM

____ Agent Member/Sponsor $150 ____ Spouse/Guest Registration $150 ____ Kids 5-12 (No fee 1-4) $ 60 ____ Roundtable Space & One Rep Fee $350

AFTER JULY 10th ADD

First Time? ____ Yes ____ No

____ Associate Member-$250 (Not Sponsor/No Roundtable) ____ Non-Member Agent $175 ____ Non-Member Associate $300 ____ Additional Roundtable Rep Fee/each $100

$50 LATE FEE TO REGISTRATIONS ABOVE. LATE FEE DOES NOT APPLY TO KIDS.

Name: _________________________ Designations: ___________ Spouse/Guest Name:____________________ # of Children Attending: ______ Ages: ___________ Names: _________________________________________ Agency/Company Name: ______________________________________________________________________ Address: _____________________________Phone: __________ Fax:____________ Email_________________

PAYMENT INFORMATION

A $35 processing fee for all cancellations will apply. No refunds after 07/21/2017 - No Shows: No refund/full fee billed. Check enclosed (made payable to AIIA) $ ________ (Mail to 141 London Parkway, Birmingham, AL 35211) Credit Card Please charge my VISA/MC/AMEX $ __________ Card #: ______________________________________________________________ Ex. Date: __________________ Name as it appears on the card: ____________________________ Authorized signature: _______________________ All dress for YA Conference is resort casual (No jeans/t-shirts please) ► ARRIVING EARLY -THURSDAY, JULY 27TH . IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO PLAY GOLF–CHECK BOX AND SOMEONE WILL CALL. ► IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO PLAY IN THE CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT- CHECK BOX. Hotel Cut Off Date June 26, 2017. Hotel reservations must be made directly with Hilton Pensacola at (850) 916-2999 Please return Conference Registration & Payment to AIIA, 141 London Pkwy, Birmingham, AL 35211 Or Fax: 205-326-3086 2017 Issue 2 | Alabama Independent

Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2

Alabama Commissioner of Insurance Beginning October 1, 1951, the Department of Insurance became a separate and distinct state agency, and effective January 1, 1972, the title of the chief executive officer was changed from Superintendent of Insurance to Commissioner of Insurance, all appointed by the Governor, as follows: 1971-1975 John G. Bookout, appointed by Gov. George Wallace 1975-1979 Charles H. Payne, appointed by Gov. George Wallace 1979 Albert Jackson (Jack) Winfield (acting), appointed by Gov. Fob James 1979-1980 H.H. Sumrall, Jr., appointed by Gov. Fob James 1980-1983 Tharpe Forrester, appointed by Gov. Fob James 1983-1984 W.G. Ward, Jr., appointed by Gov. George Wallace 1984 Joe R. Holt, appointed by Gov. George Wallace 1984-1985 Tharpe Forrester, appointed by Gov. George Wallace 1986-1987 Michael DeBellis, appointed by Gov. George Wallace 1987 Nelson Burnett, appointed by Gov. George Wallace 1987 James M. Dunn, appointed by Gov. Guy Hunt 1987-1988 John S. Greeno, appointed by Gov. Guy Hunt 1988-1993 Mike Weaver, appointed by Gov. Guy Hunt 1993-1995 James H. Dill, appointed by Gov. Jim Folsom 1995-1998 Michael DeBellis, appointed by Gov. Fob James 1998-1999 Richard H. Cater, appointed by Gov. Fob James 1999-2003 D. David Parsons, appointed by Gov. Don Siegelman 2003-2008 Walter A. Bell, appointed by Gov. Bob Riley 2008 D. David Parsons (acting), appointed by Gov. Bob Riley 2008-2011 Jim L. Ridling, appointed by Gov. Bob Riley 2011-PRESENT Jim L. Ridling, appointed by Gov. Robert Bentley Chief of Staff and Governmental Relations Manager: Mark Fowler (2012 to Present) Deputy Commissioner of Insurance: Charles Angell (2009 to Present) Jim L. Ridling has served as commissioner for over 8 years, making him Alabamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s longest serving insurance commissioner since the current configuration was established in 1951.

2017 Issue 2 | Alabama Independent

Department of Insurance Divisions

1897 Examination Division

1984 Accounting Division

1909 Alabama State Fire Marshal

1993 Human Resources

1927 Producer Licensing Division

1995 Information Technology Division

1945 Rates & Forms Division/Consumer Services Division

2003 Preneed Division

1971 Receivership Division

2012 Insurance Fraud Unit

1972 Legal Division

2015 Strengthen Alabama Homes Program

Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2

Remember When!!!

1993 Depa rt

ment

Back Row: Tharpe Forrester, Phillip Stano, Brenda Spivey, Hugh Easterwood, Lorene (Rocky) Rockwell, Paul Wallace, Nancy Martin, William (Bill) Ward, Dot Hartin, Mickey DeBellis, Jack Harrison, Raymond Broadway, Norris Crietz, Paul Raadt Second Row: Loretta Hayden, Mary Howard, Lucy Betts, Vicky Moore, Debbie Wilkins, Brenda Brown, Ann Strickland, Gina Boggs, Edna Foster, Elizabeth Rudolphi Front Row: Deborah Fike, Gail Moores, Judy Halse

partmen

2007 De

2017 Issue 2 | Alabama Independent

ALABAMA INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENTS, INC.

Pat Owens 18th Annual Big I PAC Golf Classic

WHEN:

Tuesday, September 19, 2017

WHERE:

PRATTVILLE COUNTRY CLUB 723 US 82 Prattville, AL 36067 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 8:00 A.M. 1st Shotgun Start 11:30 A.M. Lunch 1:30 P.M. 2nd Shotgun Start 6:00 P.M. Awards Reception & Prizes

Grand Prize Winners Morning & Afternoon 1st Place 2nd Place 3rd Place

A-Div B-Div $800 $500 $600 $300 $400 $200

Straightest Drive Closest to the Hole

$100 $100

Four Par 3 Holes Your donation wins a chance on: Hole-In-One $10,000 Land on Green Golf Balls Land in Circle Double your Dollars! REGISTRATION Please check your box and register for the Pat Owens 18th Annual Big I PAC Golf Classic. If you live within 60-75 miles of Prattville, please consider playing in the A.M. Company Name:______________________________________ Address:____________________________________________ City/State/Zip:_______________________________________ Phone:____________________ Fax:_____________________ Team contact:________________________________________ Individual:___________________________________________ Individual:___________________________________________ Individual:___________________________________________ Questions? Call Nancy Crowe (205) 326-4129 Ext. 103 Email: ncrowe@aiia.org FAX: (205) 326-3086 Payment must accompany all reservations. Return with check made payable to: Big I PAC 141 London Parkway, Birmingham, AL 35211 CC No._____________________________________Exp.___________ Name on card:______________________________________________

Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2

Price(s): $ 400 AM / $500 PM $ 100 AM / $125 PM $ 25 for 2 $ 25 $ 100

Sponsor Opportunities: 0 Tee Box Sponsor $ 100 0 Breakfast Sponsor $1,000 – Sponsored 0 Lunch Sponsor (2) $1,500/ea 0 Award Reception $5,000 – Sponsored 0 Beverage Cart (2) $1,000/ea $ 300/ea 0 Straightest Drive AM/PM 0 Closest to the Hole AM/PM $ 300/ea – PM Sponsored 0 Hole in One Sponsors (4) $ 750/ea 0 Hang Your Banner $ 500 0 Golf Cart Sponsor $2,500 0 Winners Plaques $1,000 0 Practice Range $ 500 0 Mulligan Drawing $ 400 Door Prize ($50 min)

$___________

Goodie Bags (Estimate: 200 Players & guests) Ultimate Goodie bags: golf shirts, golf hats, sleeves of golf balls for Hole in Ones, cozies, hand towels, etc.

Extortion by computer is growing . . . about 400% per year Cyber criminals can lock computerized operations and hold the business and customer private information hostage, demanding a ransom to unlock them. Would you know how to keep your insurance agencyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s information safe -- and your customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; -- if confronted with a cyber extortion demand? AIMS and and Arlington/Roe havehave partnered to offer Cyber Secure. It is It offered at a at reduced IIA name Arlington/Roe partnered to offer Cyber Secure. is offered a reduced rate to our members and includes coverages such as: n Cyber Extortion Loss Sublimit

n Business Interruption Coverage

n Forensic Expenses to Investigate the Breach and Ransomware Event AIMS andand administered by Arlington/Roe. This member benefit is brought to you by IIA name administered by Arlington/Roe.

Member agencies, call us for cyber coverage today. Contact Carol Hunt E&O Administrator 205-326-4129 hunt@aiia.org

Contact John Immordino E&O Risk Consultant 800-550-9891 jimmordino@arlingtonroe.com

2017 Issue 2 | Alabama Independent

Ted’s Tablet

Q: A:

QUESTION: I am getting confused about the insurance definitions of “vacant” and “unoccupied,” and was hoping for some clarification. I was originally told that vacant means empty (seems clear enough) and unoccupied means the homeowner has left the dwelling with no intention of returning (although the dwelling may still contain furniture and personal belongings). Do the companies have their own definitions and interpretations or are there solid definitions we can use to determine if a home is unoccupied? Thank you. ANSWER: The words “vacant” and “unoccupied” are not defined in the ISO homeowners and dwelling forms. Normally a court would use the common meaning of the terms. Merriam Webster Online, defines vacant as “when something is without contents or occupants.” A dwelling with furniture is not vacant; it is unoccupied. However, a

dwelling could have some furnishings and still be vacant. For example, a home that contains only a couch or chair would probably be considered vacant. Does the home contain enough furniture for normal occupancy might be a question that needs to be answered at the time of loss. Ultimately a court might have to decide. Insurance carriers’ forms may have their own definitions of the terms so it is best to check those forms. The ISO Commercial Building and Personal Property form does define the term vacancy in the vacancy condition. It depends on whether the insured is a tenant (does not contain enough property to conduct normal business operations) or the building owner (less than 31% of the building is rented to a lessee to conduct normal business operations or is used by the owner to conduct normal business operations).

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Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2

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HELPING YOU WRITE MORE PERSONAL UMBRELLA COVERAGE

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Tangerie Underwood tunderwood@aiia.org (205) 326-4129 Ext. 105 www.aiia.org 2017 Issue 2 | Alabama Independent

JULY

EducationCalendar

4 AIIA Closed for Independence Day 10-11 CIC Ruble – Orange Beach – Perdido Beach Resort 12 CISR William T. Hold – Mobile 18 E&O Road Map to Policy Analysis – Florence 20 CISR Life & Health – Montgomery 24-28 P&C Licensing School – Birmingham

SEPT. AUGUST 9-11 15 16 17 24

CIC Commercial Casualty – Birmingham CPIA 2 Implement for Success – Montgomery Young Agent Committee Day – Birmingham AIIA Committee Day – Birmingham CISR William T. Hold – Birmingham

Come Grow with Us!

4 AIIA Closed for Labor Day 12 CISR Commercial Casualty 2 – Gulf Shores 13-14 CIC Ruble – Birmingham 14 CISR Commercial Casualty 2 – Montgomery 19 CISR Commercial Casualty 2 – Huntsville 21 E&O Road Map to Policy Analysis – Birmingham 26 CISR Commercial Casualty 2 – Tuscaloosa 27 CISR Commercial Casualty 2 – Birmingham

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Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2

July 2017 AIIA Webinars 12 Business Auto Coverages 13 E&O: Roadmap to Policy Analysis (Part One and Two) 17 Insuring Toys and Collectibles 18 Fiduciary Liabilities, ERISA Bonding, and Employee Benefits Liability (The Affordable Care Act contains significant responsibilities for benefit plan decision makers.) 19 Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Not My Fault, Or Is It? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Liability Issues in Personal Lines Policies 20 Commercial Liability Coverages 20 Additional Insureds and Certificates of Insurance 24 10 Things Every Commercial Lines Agent Ought to Know 25 Ethics and Agent Liability 26 Farm Property Coverage 27 Homeowners Hot Topics

July 2017 ABEN Webinars 6 E&O Risk Management: Meeting the Challenge of Change (Part 1 and 2) 10 Directors and Officers Liability Insurance 11 Annuity Basics and Where They Fit 11 Insurance and the Property Lease 12 Environmental Strategist: Managing Environmental Exposures (Part 1) 12 Environmental Strategist: Strategies for Transferring Environmental Exposures (Part 2) 12 Environmental Strategist: Environmental Risk Management (Part 3) 12 Environmental Strategist: Developing & Executing an Environmental Management Strategy (Part 4) 14 Commercial Property Endorsements That Can Make You Money! 20 E&O Risk Management: Meeting the Challenge of Change (Part 1 and 2) 20 Ethics for Agents 25 E&O Risk Management: Meeting the Challenge of Change (Part 1 and 2) 27 E&O Risk Management: Meeting the Challenge of Change (Part 1 and 2) For complete schedules of AIIA Webinars and ABEN Webinars, go to www.aiia.org! 2017 Issue 2 | Alabama Independent

INDUSTRY NEWS

Sheffield Group New Office Groundbreaking

A groundbreaking ceremony for The Sheffield Group’s new office building was held on March 3, 2017. Continued growth, increased production, additional hiring, and management’s desire to combine the two existing locations, spurred the company to expand, which will double the size of the current office space.

After more than a year of negotiations between UAB and Brad Jones of EGS Commercial Real Estate, and months of thoughtful preparations with the Architect, TurnerBatson, the beautiful new state-of-the-art building will be a wonderful addition to Meadow Brook Corporate Park, located in the Highway 280 submarket.

Development is currently underway with JohnsonKreis Construction as the General Contractor. The new 41,000-square-foot facility will house The Sheffield Group and Sheffield Risk Management. The Building is projected to be completed and occupied by the combined Sheffield Companies by mid-2018.

Solid. Strong. Steady. Our products put us ahead, but our people set us apart. Our expertise is your advantage. We provide independent agents with diverse markets, competitive rates, quality service, and real solutions like in-house financing. We want to be the first call or click you make.

M. J. Kelly Company-Alabama

800.873.8374 I www.mjkelly.com Mark Higgins l mhiggins@mjkellyar.com

Finance with BARCO, M. J. Kelly’s premium in-house financing. 34

Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2

INDUSTRY NEWS

BAIP Anniversary Luncheon

Left Side: Melvena Rapp, Carol Kirby, Sharon Griffith, Kamini Patel, Donna Sanford, Dot Park Ojeda, Grace Allen. Right Side: Estelle Smith, Dolores Garrett, Christine Pritchett, Kathy Blake, Jan Thompson, Hope Garner

In 1943, a small group of Insurance Women met together for dinner at Britlings on First Avenue North to form an organization called Insurance Women of Birmingham(IWOB). In the beginning, the ladies wrapped bandages and sold war bonds. They attended Regional and National Conferences and by 1950, they hosted the Region III Conference in Birmingham. Over the years, IWOB has graciously given back to the community and made lifelong friendships. Not only have they provided insurance education, but have hosted The Firefighter of the Year luncheon since 1959. In 1988, IWOB changed their name to Birmingham Association of Insurance Women and then decided to broaden the association by changing

their name to Birmingham Area Insurance Professionals. On March 16, BAIP hosted their 73rd Annual Anniversary Luncheon at The Club. Past President’s joined the membership and harped on what this association has meant to them. Kathy Blake: “I had a wonderful time and I’ve told everybody that I was so glad I got to go. I really miss BAIW.” Donna Sanford: “I enjoyed it myself! Honestly, I liked the fact we got to talk and visit more vs. having a speaker… Maybe something to consider at these annual luncheons in the future???”

YOUR CUSTOMERS. OUR PROMISE. FCCI Insurance Group has been insuring businesses and doing what we say we’ll do for more than 58 years. We partner with our agents to provide expertise in underwriting, risk management and claims handling that help businesses thrive and face the future with confidence. Trey Stone, CIC Managing Director, Underwriting Alabama Branch Office

2017 Issue 2 | Alabama Independent

INDUSTRY NEWS

3rd annual Troy RMI Golf Tournament Recap On April 10, Troy Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Risk Management and Insurance program hosted their 3rd annual RMI Golf Tournament at the beautiful Wynlakes Golf & Country Club. It was a fabulous day for all 24 teams. The day ended with a gorgeous sunset, a delicious BBQ buffet, and lots of prizes. Proceeds from the tournament help fund student educational activities and scholarships. The students are gearing up for their annual London trip to visit Lloyds and

several risk management and insurance organizations. Most students who plan to graduate this fall or winter already have internships this summer with various insurance companies. Professors within the Troy RMI program simply want to provide their students the best opportunities to develop and be successful. For more information on the golf tournament or the Troy RMI program, contact Professor Ed Duett at eduett@troy.edu.

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Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2

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Our superior coverage and expert claims teams are in your corner in the event of a claim.

When you know you have the best E&O protection, you can focus on growing your most important asset–your business.

The Big “I” and Swiss Re are jointly committed to providing IIABA members with leading edge agency E&O products and services. The IIABA and its federation of 51 state associations endorse Swiss Re’s comprehensive professional liability program.

www.independentagent.com/EO Contact Information: Carol Hunt hunt@aiia.org 205-326-4129, ext 109 Insurance products underwritten by Westport Insurance Corporation, Overland Park, Kansas. Westport is a member of the Swiss Re group of companies and is licensed in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. ©2014 Swiss Corporate SolutionsIndependent 2017ReIssue 2 | Alabama

SEEN&HEARD BIRTHS

NUPTIALS

Congratulations to Eric and Ivie Isler (USI Insurance Services) on welcoming their first child, Charlotte Harper. She was born on April 24th.

OBITUARY

Congratulations to Amy and BJ King (River Tree Insurance Services), along with Big Sister Riley who welcomed Grady James King to the family on February 9.

Congratulations to Haig Wright III (Byars | Wright) on his marriage to Ms. Emily Pilling. The ceremony took place at their church in Jasper surrounded by family and friends on April 22nd.

Our thoughts have been with the family of James R. Box since his passing on April 4th. Mr. Box retired in 2014 from Sinclair Lawrence Insurance Agency with over 50 years in the business.

Welcome New Members AIIA would like to welcome the following new members who have recently joined the association. Thank you for joining Alabama Big I! 2017

NEW AGENCY MEMBERS Susan Gentry Insurance Susan Gentry Pell City, AL

Cincinnati Insurance Company Bryan Sturdy Cincinnati, OH

Wealthbridge Insurance Timothy Randle Huntsville, AL

RT Specialty Ally Odom Jacksonville, FL

Tonya Williams Agency Tonya Williams Cullman, AL IronTrust Insurance Agency Nolan Cesnick Birmingham, AL Center Insurance Agency Ron Justice Geneva, AL

NEW ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2

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SUM YOUN MER G AG 2017 27 – ENT 29, 20 CON S F 17 • Pens EREN acol CE a

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Cold Netw Calling & Toda orking in y’s W Jaso n Ca orld The ss – Insu ranc Agent e Allia nc

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If you have news, we would love to include it in our next issue! Please send your press releases, photos or notices to Michelle McKee at mmckee@aiia.org

2017 Issue 2 | Alabama Independent

Alabama Independent | 2017 Issue 2