IN THIS ISSUE October 2016 Vol 12 Issue 10
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Ohio Insurance Agent Sentenced in $58,000 Grand Theft An Ohio Department of Insurance investigation led to Gabel pleading guilty to misappropriating more than $58,000 from two clients.
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New Password Rules Make Them Easy To Remember & Secure I’m no longer using passwords that look something like this: W#7s@Pq!. They were very difficult to remember and extremely frustrating to enter, especially using a phone’s tiny onscreen keyboard.
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Ownership Not Required To Have An Insurable Interest - By Barry Zalma, Esq. Insurance is a contract of personal indemnity. It does not insure property. Rather it insures the person insured against the risk of loss of described property.
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Agent Arrested For Producing Fake Insurance Contracts Steven Branstetter, 60, was arrested on 13 felony counts of theft from an elder and grand theft for allegedly embezzling over $2.25 million.
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Georgia Agent Arrested For Insurance Fraud Julia Cruz, 37, has been charged with insurance fraud and one count of theft by conversion.
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Florida CFO Jeff Atwater Named Florida’s 2016 Consumer Champion Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater was named Florida’s 2016 Consumer Champion during an annual awards ceremony hosted by FAIR.
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Broward LAAIA Chapter President Thanks Members & Partners
In the event you are one of those wide-eyed, trusting liberals who believed that the Democrat’s openborders & immigration policies were all about compassion for the immigrants - think again.
Pres. Cynthia Scott: Please let me take a minute to thank everyone for their participation in the 7th Annual Broward LAAIA Board Installation Gala!
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Sixteen People Charged In Massive $175,000,000 Insurance Fraud Scheme A criminal Information charges sixteen defendants for their participation in a complex fraud scheme regarding the manufacture and distribution of compounded medications.
Outrageous Lawsuit Of The Month Award... Garrison made the mistake of swatting the needle out of her daughter’s hand and was stuck by the needle in the palm of her hand.
Holding Truth To Politics: What Black Lives Matter is protesting. You’ll be surprised. Maybe not.
REPORT: Is Obama Admin. Paying Overtime With Your Tax Dollars To Skew Election For Hillary?
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Obama Admin. Sues Trump Backer Revenge? In a surprise move considered by most observers to be overtly political, the Obama administration, who couldn’t seem to find any reason to prosecute Hillary Clinton, has instructed the Department of Labor to sue Peter Thiel with ginned-up discrimination charges.
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Unbelievable Vintage Ads!
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In a move that may be too little too late, the Swiss parliament extended an existing burqa ban in the Tessin region of Switzerland in a close vote.
The Insider reviews some amazing old ads that tell us more about our culture in the Mad Men era than any book!
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2016 LAAIA Trade Fair Images Now Online! And if you were there, there is a good chance you’ll see yourself!
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“Fluttrbox offers an affordable entry model for P&C insurers looking to utilize drone technology for an immediate ROI because we don’t require customers to buy equipment or hire, license any onboard operators.”
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Arnold is Back In The Gym!
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Why Not Just Vote For Hillary? Six big (Huge!) reasons the Advisor will never vote for a Democrat in a presidential election - and neither should you...
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Louisiana Broker Convicted For Stealing Premiums in California
Obama Wonders Why Racial Tensions Are At A Record High? Rep. Peter King coming down hard on Obama for “propagating the big lie against our nation’s police.
Fluttrbox Announces Successful Drone Tech Pilot Program
Juanita Broaddrick: “Chelsea, Your Parents Are Not Good People.” A woman who accused Bill Clinton of raping her in 1978 says Hillary enabled Bill. Hillary’s War on Women?
Some may call 69 year old Arnold Schwarzenegger a geezer - but never to his face. He’s Back!
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Swiss Parliament Votes To Ban Burqas In Public
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FEATURES 7
Kim Komando
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Barry Zalma
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Advertising
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Inside Track
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Insider Advisor
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Classifieds
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Say What?
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Back Issues
Changing Profile Of American Households Create New Insurance Realities... American households are experiencing a dramatic shift.
American Pet Insurance Company In The Doghouse None of the employees who sold insurance to Washington consumers were licensed insurance producers. [The company] violated state law that
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Martin McCloskey, 69, of Piñon Hills pleaded guilty to three felony counts of grand theft and theft of fiduciary funds after defrauding his customers by failing to remit to insurance companies more than $58,000 in premiums.
Cover Photo: R Manera
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October 2016
NEWS
OHIO INSURANCE AGENT SENTENCED FOR $58,000 GRAND THEFT Gabel intentionally produced fictitious policy premium invoices to defraud clients for his financial benefit.
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OLUMBUS – Former insurance agent and agency owner Charles Gabel, of Fremont, was sentenced in the Sandusky County Court of Common Pleas to three years of community control supervision and 100 hours of community service for grand theft, according
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to Ohio Lieutenant Governor Mary Taylor. He also was ordered to pay restitution to his victims. An Ohio Department of Insurance investigation led to Gabel pleading guilty to misappropriating more than $58,000 from two clients. “Consumer protection is our number one priority,” said Taylor, also director of the Ohio Department of Insurance. “This individual took advantage of trusting customers and he is being held accountable for his illegal conduct.” Gabel intentionally produced fictitious policy premium invoices to defraud clients for his financial benefit. Gabel stated an audit revealed additional premium payment funds were owed. It was later determined the clients’ accounts were already in good financial standing. Gabel surrendered his Ohio insurance agent license on August 12, 2015. Ohioans aware of insurance fraud are urged to report it to the Ohio Department of Insurance by calling 1-800-686-1527. Insurance fraud information is available at www.insurance.ohio.gov.
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INSURANCE • POLITICS • TECHNOLOGY • PEOPLE A Publication of AdMax Corp., Inc. Corporate Offices P.O. Box 31551 Palm Beach Gardens, Florida 33420 Ron Manera, Publisher/Senior Editor Join Me On Linkedin: HERE Follow Me On Instagram: @rmanera 561.718.0745 • ron@insurmedia.com
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October 2016
TECHNOLOGY
NEW PASSWORD RULES MAKE THEM EASY TO REMEMBER AND MORE SECURE
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Really Cool Info - by Kim Komando
’m no longer using passwords faux pas and use the word that look something like “password” as your password. this: W#7s@Pq!. They were very difficult to remember and extremely frustrating to enter, especially using a phone’s tiny onscreen keyboard. I have changed strategies and my life is better. For many years, my advice about how to create the best password did not change very much. A good and secure password requires at least eight random characters. Be sure to logjam the hacker’s password cracking programs by using a mixture of upper and lower case letters, a number or two, and a few symbols.
passwords. I’ve done my best to memorize passwords only to feel defeated. The password reset link was my last resort at more sites than I care to admit. Let’s breathe a collective sigh of relief and give thanks to series of studies at Carnegie Mellon University. They found passphrases provide just as much randomness as a haphazard collection of letters and symbols. Try one like this: ilovefreshsashimitunawithalittlesoyandwasabi. That’s 44 lower case letters, with no spaces. It’s easy for me to remember because it’s true.
The researchers suggest that your passphrase be between 16 and 64 characters. Go ahead, get creative with your phrases. The longer the passphrase is, the We’ve tried to make light of our harder it is for a hacking program universal password pain. Perhaps to figure it out. Never use any word found in the you’ve heard this joke. “I changed dictionary or a series of numbers, my password to “incorrect.” Now With all due respect to the like 12345678. Don’t use words whenever I forget what it is, the researchers, the passphrase that people around you know site will say, “Your password is alone is not good enough. There such as your dog’s name, favorite incorrect.”” sport or the city where you were See Kim Komando Pg 46 born. Whatever you do, never Like you, I made hieroglyphic perform the ultimate password www.underwritersinsider.com
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October 2016
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INSURANCE & THE LAW
OWNERSHIP NOT REQUIRED TO HAVE AN INSURABLE INTEREST Expert Analysis & Commentary by Barry Zalma, Esq., CFE Every Interest in Property Where a Peril May Cause Damage to the Insured is an Insurable Interest.
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nsurance is a contract of personal indemnity. It does not insure property. Rather it insures the person insured against the risk of loss of described property. Therefore, if a person is not named as an insured that person may not recover regardless of his interest in the property. On the other hand a person who has no ownership interest in property but would be damaged by its loss has an insurable interest. In A.B. Petro Mart, Inc. v. Ali T. Beydoun Ins. Agency, Inc., Court of Appeals of Michigan, — N.W.2d —-, 2016 WL 4922684
(Sept. 15, 2016) the Michigan Court of Appeals was asked to determine who was entitled to recover under a policy and what is an insurable interest.
operated the pumps in the course of selling gasoline at the gas station. There also is no dispute that Petro Mart insured the gas pumps with Prime One. The trial court granted summary disposition in favor of FACTS Prime One with respect to Petro A.B. Petro Mart, Inc. (Petro Mart’s claim because it determined Mart) and Aref Bazzi, appeal the that Petro Mart did not possess an trial court’s order that granted insurable interest in the gas pumps. summary disposition in favor of defendant Prime One Insurance Pursuant to Michigan law, an (Prime One). insurance contract to protect an insured from loss of property is an indemnity contract for fortuitous Join Barry Zalma’s new Blog: events. In order to be entitled to http://www.zalma.com/blog indemnity under such an insurance contract, the insured must have an insurable interest in the property. Plaintiffs filed this suit to recover In Michigan, as in most states, insurance benefits related to the legal interest is not synonymous destruction of a gas pump at a with insurable interest because an gas station Petro Mart operated. insured’s pecuniary interest in the There is no question that Petro insured property is sufficient to Mart did not own the gas pumps constitute an insurable interest. — Bazzi did. Petro Mart instead
Barry Zalma, Esq., CFE, practiced law in California for more than 43 years as an insurance coverage and claims handling lawyer. He now limits his practice to service as an insurance consultant and expert witness specializing in insurance coverage, insurance claims handling, insurance bad faith and insurance fraud almost equally for insurers and policyholders. He also serves as an arbitrator or mediator for insurance related disputes. He founded Zalma Insurance Consultants in 2001 and serves as its only consultant. 8
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This dispute arises from an incident where an automobile ran into and caused the destruction of one of the gas pumps located at the gas station in Detroit. The crash started a destroyed the pump. Bazzi was the sole shareholder and owner of Petro Mart, and Petro Mart is the entity that operated the gas station. However, the gas pumps, themselves, were owned by Bazzi. Petro Mart insured the gas pumps by purchasing an insurance policy with Prime One, which provided, among other things, $30,000 in coverage for gas pumps.
the insurance application, he is not named anywhere in the policy itself. Indeed, the policy provides that “A B Petro Mart, Inc.” is the sole named insured. Thus, without being a party to the insurance contract, Bazzi cannot maintain a breach of
to support the existence of a valid insurance policy. The reason for this requirement is based on public policy concerns. Specifically, it arises out of the venerable public policy against “wager policies” that fire and are insurance policies in which the insured has no interest, and they A professional insurer should are held to be void because such policies know that ownership is not present insureds required to create an insurable with unacceptable temptation to interest. Since Petro Mart was commit wrongful damaged by the loss of the pump the acts to obtain payment. determination of coverage should
have been easy. Instead, the claim was denied incorrectly and the case had to go through summary judgment motions and an appeal to resolve an obvious issue. “
Michigan’s common law instructs that an “insurable interest” is not synonymous with “ownership.” Instead, an insurable interest can arise from any kind of benefit from contract claim against Prime the thing so insured or any kind After the accident Prime One One. of loss that would be suffered eventually declined coverage by its damage or destruction. because it asserted that Petro It is clear that the contract Insurable interest may be Mart did not have an insurable itself did not provide any basis defined as any lawful and interest in the gas pumps, as to conclude that Prime One substantial economic interest Bazzi—not Petro Mart—owned undertook any promise directly the pumps. to or for Bazzi. Because Bazzi is in the safety or preservation neither a party to the contract of the subject of the insurance The trial court noted that there nor a third-party beneficiary, free from loss, destruction, or was no dispute that Bazzi owned he cannot maintain his action pecuniary damage. An insurable the pumps and that Petro Mart for breach of contract against interest may be derived by merely operated them without Prime One. Accordingly, the possession, enjoyment, or any leasehold agreement. trial court correctly granted profits of the property, security summary disposition in favor of or lien resting upon it, or it ANALYSIS Prime One against Bazzi. may be other certain benefits Under the clear language of the policy, the only named insured Under Michigan law an insured See ZALMA Pg 45 is Petro Mart. While Bazzi signed must have an ‘insurable interest’ www.underwritersinsider.com
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NEWS
AGENT ARRESTED FOR PRODUCING FAKE INSURANCE AND ANNUITY CONTRACTS
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He’s Accused of Targeting Seniors And Pocketing The Premiums
OS ANGELES, Calif. — Steven Edward Branstetter, 60, of Culver City, was arrested on 13 felony counts of theft from an elder and grand theft for allegedly embezzling over $2.25 million in insurance premiums from 18 southland victims over nine years.
Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones. "He ruthlessly targeted vulnerable seniors, taking their money, making big promises and leaving them with worthless pieces of paper and no coverage."
Formerly a licensed life agent, Branstetter's license expired in 2013—he did not attempt After receiving a complaint from to renew it. He continued his Branstetter's clients who were scam after his license expired. unable to cash in their annuities, the California Department Bail is set at $715,000.00. of Insurance Investigation The department filed a 1275 Division discovered Branstetter bail motion, which requires allegedly issued fraudulent Branstetter to prove bail funds annuity contracts and life and disability insurance policies and stole their premiums for his personal use.
Steven Edward Branstetter, 60
are not from ill-gotten gains. This case is being prosecuted by the Los Angeles County District Attorney Elder Abuse Section.
Branstetter targeted his victims many of them seniors between 2005 and 2014 through his business, LifeCo, allegedly convincing many of them to surrender legitimate policies in order to purchase life, disability products he was selling under the name AIIA Group. "Branstetter alleged crime make this one of the worst cases of senior financial abuse we have seen in a while," said 10
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October 2016
NEWS
GEORGIA INSURANCE AGENT ARRESTED FOR INSURANCE FRAUD “My office will continue to investigate and arrest dishonest tlanta – Insurance agents.” Commissioner Ralph urges Hudgens announced Hudgens anyone who today that an investigation by his purchased Fraud Division has resulted in a has Gwinnett County insurance agent insurance from Cruz or Platinum Agency being arrested for fraud. & Services to verify coverage Julia Cruz, 37, of Norcross, has their
with the insurance company listed on the policy or contact his Consumer Services Division for assistance at 800-656-2298.
GWINNETT COUNTY AGENT ARRESTED FOR INSURANCE FRAUD
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been charged with two counts of insurance fraud and one count of theft by conversion. She was arrested this morning and transported to the Gwinnett County Jail.
Insurance fraud is a felony Georgia with a penalty of two to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10K. Ralph Hudgens
Fraud investigators determined that Cruz, who owns and operates Platinum Agency & Services in Lilburn, Georgia, allegedly pocketed a cash payment of $3,695.00 from her client for workers’ compensation and liability insurance and issued him a bogus certificate as proof of coverage. “Cruz violated her client’s trust when she took his premium and didn’t bind the coverage” said Commissioner Hudgens. www.underwritersinsider.com
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October 2016
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October 2016
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NEWS
FLORIDA CFO JEFF ATWATER NAMED FLORIDA’S 2016 CONSUMER CHAMPION
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billing. The term balance billing describes a process in which medical providers bill patients for out-ofnetwork medical costs that are not covered by insurance. Also included was a landmark life insurance bill that passed the Florida Legislature without a single no vote. The measure put an end to a disturbing industry-wide business practice that drastically reduced the number of life insurance policies that were paid Florida CFO Jeff Atwater out properly and in a timely end it were featured on a manner. This nationwide recent segment of CBS News’ practice was discovered in “60 Minutes.” “I believe that Floridians need Florida and the CFO’s efforts to strong representation when insurance issues are discussed, and it’s my privilege to go to bat for the people I’ve been elected to represent,” said CFO Atwater. “I am honored to receive this award, and I thank the FAIR team for the work that they do on behalf of Florida’s more than 20 million residents.” IAMI, Fla. – Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater was named Florida’s 2016 Consumer Champion during an annual awards ceremony hosted Thursday night by the Florida Association for Insurance Reform. The annual FAIR awards recognize insurance and policy leaders whose work has made a meaningful difference in the lives of Floridians. During the 2015 legislative session, CFO Atwater championed several consumer-oriented insurance bills, including significant policy changes in life insurance and health insurance.
Succeeding on every legislative front, sweeping reforms have now been implemented that include a ban on balance billing, also known as surprise medical 14
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October 2016
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NEWS
BROWARD LAAIA CHAPTER PRESIDENT THANKS MEMBERS AND PARTNERS By Cynthia Scott, BLAAIA President
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lease let me take a minute to thank everyone for their participation in the 7th Annual Broward LAAIA Board Installation Gala. It was a fantastic event right from the start. Masters of Ceremony Rudy Valdez-Diaz and Al Mendez were both energetic and impressive. The program kicked off with a prosperity blessing for the association delivered by Mr. Henry, the Culture Advisor and Medicine Man to the Seminole Tribe.
L-R Past Pres. Robin Lewis, CFO Jeff Atwater, Pres. Cynthia Scott
challenges we face today as an Our keynote speaker was Florida industry, including Insurance Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, Fraud, and recent changes to who spoke to our more than 225 Workers Comp. guests about some of the current
Our outgoing President, Robin Lewis recognized the incoming and outgoing board members for their dedication and service to the association. He reminded us that, as insurance professionals, we serve an important role in society, and that we must continue to strive to be the best for our clients. I shared my vision for my term as president, including continuing to offer excellent professional growth and development classes.
Broward LAAIA Charity Committee - Check to Lifenet4families
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The new board members and I are committed to the growth of this unsurpassed organization. There are several great committees that can use your help. Please reach out if you are interested in becoming October 2016
involved. We participation!
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your
Our 2016 Chapter Officers and Directors
September kicks off with a three-part course to earn or re-certify your CPIA designation. In addition, the theme of our September membership meeting is “Hire Slow and Fire Fast: The 6 Keys to a Winning Team.� Please refer to our newly redesigned website to see additional upcoming events. Thank you to our members and sponsors for starting our upcoming year off right. It's only going to get better. Teamwork Makes the Dream Work! www.underwritersinsider.com
Fla CFO Jeff Atwater, Cynthia Scott, President Broward LAAIA Chapter
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Cynthia Scott, President Luis Ortega, President-Elect Daniel Barros, Vice President Karl Grace, Treasurer Christopher Dunham, Secretary Robin Lewis, Immediate Past President Rick Gibbs, Director Andrew Pappas, Director Jim Sullivan, Director Angela Sheppard, Director Brian Casey, Director Elena Cabrena, Company Liaison Al Mendez, Board of Counselors Representative
October 2016
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NEWS
SIXTEEN PEOPLE CHARGED IN MASSIVE $175,000,000 INSURANCE FRAUD SCHEME
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outhern District of Florida - Sixteen defendants have been charged in federal court with participating in a massive insurance fraud scheme.
FL, Rhett Gordon, 43, of Boca Raton, FL, William Earl, 73, of Boca Raton, FL, Frederick Thomas Giampa, 52, of Sharon, MA, Dr. Peter Williams, 56, of New Port Richey, FL, Dr. John Johnson, 54, of Hollidaysburg, PA, A criminal Information charges and Dr. Brett Nadel, 48, of Roswell, sixteen defendants for their GA, are charged with conspiracy to participation in a complex commit mail fraud and wire fraud. fraud scheme regarding the manufacture and distribution According to the Information filed of compounded medications. today, the defendants participated The fraud involved material in a two-year conspiracy, which misrepresentations to health used various business entities, insurance providers and illegal including Numed Care, LLC, payments to coconspirators and ClinicalCorp, LLC, RX of Boca, and medical professionals, including a compounding pharmacy located physicians. The fraud generated in in Dallas, Texas (hereinafter referred excess of $175,000,000 in criminal to as “the Texas Compounding proceeds for the members of the Pharmacy”’), to perpetrate a criminal enterprise. complex fraud on numerous health care insurance providers. Clifford Carroll, 36, of Boca Raton, FL, is charged with conspiracy to The defendants prepared commit racketeering, in violation medications in bulk quantities of Title 18, United States Code, which were alleged to be Section 1962 (Count 1). Todd compounded medications for Stephens, 52, of West Palm Beach, specific individualized patient FL, Tim Clinton, 30, of Delray needs. The defendants falsely Beach, FL, Joel McDermott, 41, of represented to the health Boca Raton FL, Michael Kenna, 30, insurance providers that these of Delray Beach, FL, Todd Hanson, medications were prepared in 47, of Zephyr Cove, NV, and Lisa limited quantities for individual Goldberg, 51, of Fort Lauderdale, patients and were exempted from FL, are charged with conspiracy to FDA inspection. commit money laundering. The health insurance providers Christopher Mucha, 30, of Davie, compensated the defendants FL, Ian Flaster, 34, of Delray Beach, for the alleged costs of the FL, Kyle O’Brien, 28, of Boca Raton, ingredients for such medications.
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The defendants concealed from the health insurance providers that the defendants made illegal kickbacks to physicians for the issuance of the compounded medications. The defendants unlawfully provided the physicians with preprinted prescription pads. In order to facilitate the fraudulent scheme, used mass marketing techniques and call centers, which made material misrepresentations in order to solicit potential patients, while inducing owners of failing pharmacies throughout the United States in order to perpetuate the fraud. Potential Penalties Carroll faces a statutory maximum term of imprisonment of 23 years and a fine of up to $500,000. Hanson faces a statutory maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a fine of up to the greater of $500,000 or twice the amount of the criminally derived property.Stephens, Clinton, McDermott, Kenna, and Goldberg face a statutory maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a fine of up to the greater of $250,000 or twice the amount of the criminally derived property. Mucha, Flaster, O’Brien, Gordon, Earl, Giampa, Williams, Johnson, and Nadel face a statutory maximum term of imprisonment of 5 years and a fine of up to $250,000. October 2016
NEWS
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Policy Form Flexibility: HO-3, HO-8, DP-1 and DP-3 Forms Wind Deductibles available from 2%, 3% or 5%
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NEWS-OPINION
REPORT: OBAMA ADMINISTRATION PAYING OVERTIME WITH YOUR TAX DOLLARS IN ATTEMPT TO SKEW ELECTION TO THE LEFT By Ron Manera, Senior Editor
attracted to - and easily sold on the generous and growing welfare and social service policies the political left routinely trades for votes. The immigrants don’t give much thought to our $20 trillion national debt or the burden to U.S. taxpayers.
Rigging The Vote By Opening The Flood-Gates To Immigrants Is An Old Democrat Trick
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n the event you are one of those wide-eyed, trusting liberals who believed that the Democrat’s open-borders & immigration policies were all about compassion for the poor immigrants - think again.
The Email reads in part: the office was spending taxpayer money to fund expensive overtime work to naturalize as many immigrants as possible prior to the Nov. 8th election.
“The Field Office due to the election year needs to process as many of their N-400 cases as possible between now and FY
The Field Office due to the election year needs to process as many of their N-400 cases [swearing in of new citizens] as possible between now and FY 2016… If you have cases in this category or other pending, you are encouraged to take advantage of the OT [overtime] if you can.. This will be an opportunity to move your pending naturalization cases. If you have not volunteered for OT, please consider and let me know if you are interested...” Now an Immigration Services internal email sent by nonother than the chief at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Houston Field Office obtained by a Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis) who chairs the Committee on Homeland Security & Government Affairs clearly shows 22
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Statistics show that 70% of newly naturalized immigrants break for the Democrats - a fact well known to the Obama team. Even illegal or yet-to-naturalize immigrants greatly influence politics - and always to the political left. Most new immigrants are economic refugees on the poverty side of the scale and are naturally Table of Contents
[fiscal year] 2016… If you have cases in this category or other pending, you are encouraged to take advantage of the OT [overtime] if you can.. This will be an opportunity to move your pending naturalization cases. If you have not volunteered for OT, please consider and let me know if you are interested.. It’s the end of the year crunch time, so let’s October 2016
NEWS-OPINION get crunchy! Go Team Houston! to 400,000 aliens per year, but Thanks for all your hard work!” under CUSA that increased to 1.1 million cases. The apparent push In a scathing letter to Jeh to naturalize as many aliens as Johnson, Secretary, Department possible in time for them to vote of Homeland Security, Senate in the election resulted in cut Judiciary Committee Chairman corners that endangered national Charles Grassley wrote: security and public safety.” “Your department seems intent on “We sincerely hope history is not approving as many naturalization repeating itself,” he continued. cases as quickly as possible at a “Please explain what you are time when it should doing or will instead be putting do to reassure on the brakes and adjudicators that reviewing past naturalization adjudications, applications should especially in light of not be rushed this week’s Office of for inappropriate Inspector General political reasons. report that found Please also explain USCIS granted U.S. what steps you citizenship to at are taking or will least 858 individuals take to assure from “special our Committees Sen. Charles Grassley interest” countries and the American (i.e. countries that are of concern people that background and to the national security of the fingerprint checks will not be United States) or countries with weakened, ignored, or completely high rates of immigration fraud, eliminated.” who had final deportation orders under another identity. “ According to a report by Townhall’s Rachel Alexander, there is ample “Unfortunately, we have been evidence of Democratic voter down this road before. In the year fraud in the Romney/Obama preceding the 1996 presidential election of 2012: election the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), the “So how did Romney lose a race predecessor agency to USCIS, that numerous reputable polls established the notorious and pundits predicted would be “Citizenship USA” (CUSA) initiative. an easy win, based on historical Previously, the INS had been patterns? The most realistic granting citizenship to 300,000 explanation is voter fraud in a www.underwritersinsider.com
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few swing states. According to the Columbus Dispatch, one out of every five registered voters in Ohio is ineligible to vote. In at least two counties in Ohio, the number of registered voters exceeded the number of eligible adults who are of voting age. In northwestern Ohio’s Wood County, there are 109 registered voters for every 100 people eligible to vote. An additional 31 of Ohio’s 88 counties have voter registration rates over 90%, which most voting experts regard as suspicious. Obama miraculously won 100% of the vote in 21 districts in Cleveland, and received over 99% of the vote where GOP inspectors were illegally removed.” And, just this month, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services admitted they “accidentally” granted citizenship to 858 individuals who had previously been deported and again entered the country illegally. There goes another 858 votes for Hillary. Immigration should be encouraged when it’s good for the country - not when it’s used to rig an election. The scorched earth political strategy of “win now” so often seen employed by Democrats leaves this conservative wondering if these people care at all about the future of their children, their grandchildren and this great country.
October 2016
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THE INSIDE TRACK - BREAKING NEWS Outrageous Lawsuit Award of the Month
B
Image Credit: Creative Commons
ack in May 2014, Carla Denise Garrison was walking through a Target parking lot when her curious
young daughter picked up a hypodermic needle. Garrison made the mistake of swatting the needle out of her daughter’s hand and was stuck by the needle in the palm of her hand. Some might say Garrison’s action, though understandable, was a poor choice of responding to the threat given the result. Garrison, who was subsequently bedridden for a time while taking anti-HIV medication, and her attorney, saw Target 24
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as the negligent party under the theory, apparently, that Target should be continually scrutinizing every square inch of its parking lots for hypodermic needles left by third parties. All lawsuit claims of this nature have two components: The amount of damages and the question of negligence. Garrison’s attorney made an offer to Target to settle the case for $12,000. Target countered with a $750 offer. Based on the attorney’s offer to settle for so little, the true damages must have been negligible and common sense would have assigned at least 50%
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of the negligence to Garrison for actually swatting a hypodermic needle thereby causing the loss. Yet based on those two components, the jury awarded Garrison $4.6 million. Go figure.
Hawking: Watch Out For The Aliens...
S
tephen Hawking is still worried about aliens. Not Mexicans. Outerspace aliens. He sees them in a probability model as maurading pirates, navigating the galaxy seeking plunder and booty. “One day, we might receive a signal from a planet like this,” Hawking sad in a recent
October 2016
THE INSIDE TRACK - BREAKING NEWS documentary, talking about a potentially habitable exoplanet known as Gliese 832c. “But we should be wary of answering back. Meeting an advanced civilization could be like Native Americans encountering Columbus. That didn’t turn out so well.” That’s true Stephen - but would it have made any difference if they had tried to hide in the woods?
Image Credit: Creative Commons
Hurricane Hermine Hustle In Florida
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s Hurricane Hermine recovery efforts continue, Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater and the Department of Financial Services has heard reports of insurance scams occurring in Taylor County. The Department is currently working with Taylor County officials and www.underwritersinsider.com
administration, who couldn’t seem to find any reason to prosecute Hillary HELP WANTED — POSITION WANTED 4 — SALE ITEMS Clinton, has instructed the Department of Labor to sue CLICK HERE! Palantir Tech’s co-founder Peter Thiel claiming “racial FDLE to investigate reports discrimination” against of scammers claiming to Asians. The lawsuit threatens be Federal Emergency to cancel all government Management Agency (FEMA) contracts with the company officials who are demanding worth $340 million based a $150 deposit in exchange on the laughable claim for helping consumers that Palantir must have file hurricane-related discriminated insurance claims. There against Asians is no fee to file a FEMA since only 44% claim and Floridians of Palantir’s who encounter this software scam should report it by engineers are calling the Department’s Asian - against Consumer Insurance an 85% Asian Helpline at 1-877-693applicant pool. 5236. Consumers can Thiel is a highRevenge Suit? also utilize this helpline profile Trump to get free help with the supporter and spoke at the filing of hurricane-related RNC convention blasting insurance claims. the government for falling behind in technology, “Today our government is broken Obama Sues Trump … it would be kind to say Backer Peter Thiel the government’s software works poorly, because much n a surprise move of the time it doesn’t even considered by most work at all.” observers to be overtly political, the Obama FREE CLASSIFIEDS!
I
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SPOTLIGHT
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October 2016
NEWS FLUTTRBOX ANNOUNCES SUCCESSFUL DRONE TECHNOLOGY PILOT PROGRAM WITH CONTINENTAL WESTERN GROUP
M
ontreal, Canada – September 9, 2016 –– Fluttrbox, provider of an innovative software platform leveraging drone technology and analytics for use by property and casualty (P&C) insurers in the under writing, risk assessment and claim adjustment processes, is pleased to announce the company has launched a successful drone pilot program with Urbandale, Iowa-based Continental Western Group (CWG), a commercial lines P&C insurance provider serving 13 states in the middle United States. “Fluttrbox offers an affordable entry model for P&C insurers looking to utilize drone technology for an immediate ROI because we don’t require customers to buy equipment or hire, license and onboard operators,” said Aristo MohitCoker, founder of Fluttrbox. “CWG was excited about the capabilities offered by Fluttrbox, including the network of experienced and available www.underwritersinsider.com
operators, the image hosting functionality, on-demand accessibility to images and data, and an ability to organize the data in a logical way for the company’s underwriters, claim managers and adjusters alike. The team at CWG has a profound appreciation for new technology, and we are so pleased they signed on with Fluttrbox for this pilot project.”
possibility of a reduction in loss adjustment expenses and an increase in underwriting accuracy,” said Doug Pearson, senior vice president and chief underwriting officer for CWG. Fluttrbox technology consistently removes the complexities of resource allocation for onsite monitoring, including capital expenses required for equipment, talent acquisition, regulatory compliance, information gathering, data storage and management, and documentation.
Organizing a risk or property assessment workforce across For more information multiple states is a about Fluttrbox, the significant challenge company’s products for P&C insurers of all and services, or this sizes. CWG was looking pilot program, please to improve and streamline visit http://www.fluttrbox.io/ or underwriting and claims processes send an email to Aristo Mohitfor the company’s wide range of Coker at aristo@fluttrbox.io. insurance products, including auto, liability, property and varied commercial packages by utilizing aerial photographic techniques FREE CLASSIFIEDS! and turned to Fluttrbox for help with the difficult task of not only gathering aerial images, but HELP WANTED — POSITION analyzing returned images and WANTED 4 — SALE ITEMS the related data. “Part of the attraction of a drone program for CWG was the Table of Contents
CLICK HERE! October 2016
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“The Final Authority on Everything!” WARNING!
The Advisor has been known to be politically incorrect and may send certain Millennials scurrying to their safe space. Also not recommended for Progressives who are easily offended. Please read at your own risk.
Why Not Just Vote For Hillary?
A
t the moment, Hillary & Trump are neck and neck in national polls. You’ve come down on Trump before, so are you thinking of voting for Hillary now? J.K. Dayton, OH
ADVISOR
candidate on many levels, most of his fundamental positions are far more reflective of Conservative ideals than those of the Democrats. The Democratic party has moved so far to the left in the past thirty years it would be unrecognizable to someone from the 1980s. They seem to have adopted a scorched Earth, win-now philosophy without regard to the long-term damage they may be doing to the country. Here are the key reasons I could never vote Democrat: They’re Devisive. Black against
White. Rich against poor. Women against men. Young against old. Workers against business owners. There is always a bogeyman - and you must identify, demonize and hate that enemy... They Sell Victimization. If you have anything wrong in your universe, it’s someone else’s fault and you’re a victim. In the world of the Democrats, self-determination, taking responsibility, rugged individualism do not exist. If your world is not perfect, you are a helpless victim of, usually, evil Republicans.
No J.K. Not even close. A vote for Hillary with the mountain of corruption and incompetence that comes with her would require a suspension of all reason. Second, a vote for Hillary would essentially be a vote for a 3rd Obama term, continuing a pattern of national and international failure unprecedented in American history. While I’m no Trumpette and he has been a disappointing 32
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October 2016
Their Solution To Everything is Bigger Government, More Bureaucrats, Higher Taxes & More Regulations. Not only
is that a failed approach, but with a national debt of $20 Trillion+, double what Obama found when he took office, do we really need to be growing government?’ History Has Shown Democrat Policies Fail. There
are just so many examples: Internationally we have Venezuela, Argentina, Brazil, Greece, Cuba, East Germany, etc, etc. Right here at home: The ten cities with the worse economy and the highest crime rates have all been run by Democrats for decades. www.underwritersinsider.com
They Pander. Without core the Iraq war. Diversity and
principals, the Dems find themselves supporting evil, anti-American, racist groups like Black Lives Matter, Black Panthers or Code Pink simply to nail the votes. Have you heard a single Democrat condemn Socialism? You won’t. Need them Bernie voters. They’re dishonest. You may say all politicians are dishonest, but there is a big ugly lie behind almost every Democrat position: Here’s just a few big whoppers: The rich don’t pay their fair share of taxes. There is systemic White racism in this country. Bush lied, people died. Democrats were against Table of Contents
open borders are good for the country. There is a “glass ceiling” for women in business. George Bush caused the 2008 recession. Republicans are trying to restrict voting of the poor. You’ll be able to keep your doctor; keep your health plan. Trillions for “shovel ready” jobs. The Republican’s “war on women.” And dozens more. They lie, systemically. It’s in their DNA. So J.K. - Here’s your choice: do you want to be annoyed by Trump for 4 years? Or do you want to lose your country forever to Hillary? October 2016
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Experienced Administrative/Accounts Executive Norcross based fast-growing Insurance Agency needs Experienced Administrative/ Accounts Executive with 2 years experience in Insurance Field. Proficiency in computers required. Please e-mail resume to girish_talati@hotmail.com 16-7
Help us expand our Agency (From Home)!! We are seeking an energetic professional to work parttime in a virtual capacity assisting us with recruiting and supporting professional sales agents across the United States and Canada.For detailed information on our company and this non-sales virtual opportunity please contact us today with the following link http://apply. harvardbenefits.com/269541 16-10
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Insurance Tech Consultants
Have an awesome idea for an insurance or financerelated app, software tool, or social media marketing campaign? Need an experienced pro for tech-centric business development? Take your business to the next level - contact GMA LLC today. 407-706-0245. Matt@ProAdvisors.Info 16-4
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Agency Established 2006 seeks Outside Commercial Producer. Cutting Edge tech! Generous Comp and Possible Equity Buy In. Experience and FL 220 a must! Resume’ to info@nusurance.com 16-10
Experienced CSR Wanted - Broward Co.
Join our team... A & H Insurance is looking to hire a motivated team member to quote, write & service new & existing customers. Must have active 440 License (we will pay the pre-licensing course for the right candidate) Bilingual a must! Fax resume to:954-251-1423 or email: darlene@autohomeins. net 16-7
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407-797-0790 Thank you. jmburzee@aol.com
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Regional Outreach Coordinator wanted
Looking for professionals who would like to help individuals save on their monthly prescription cost on average 15% for brand name and 55% on generic, while earning a residual income. loucei@msn.com 16-7
Seeking 220 & 440 Insurance Agents in Florida & Georgia! Well established We Insure agencies are experiencing growth and are looking for experienced 220 and 440 insurance agents statewide in both Florida AND Georgia. Active 220 or 440 license required and preferably 2 to 5 years experience in Personal Lines and/or Commercial Sales. Please send your résumé to: Megan.null@weinsuregroup.com
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Field Underwriter As a field underwriter, your job is to meet prospects who have responded to a direct mail campaign asking for more information on our products. When you meet with them you will be determining their eligibility for our products and helping them decide what is best for them. There is no cold-calling required as you are Reply with resume to for immediate consideration with same day response. fieldunderwritersfl@gmail. com 16-10
October 2016
Car Insurance Agent seeking employment Insurance 220 Agent seeking full time employment as soon as possible in the Fort Lauderdale area. Specialize in auto Insurance sales. Extremely thorough and precise when selling Insurance. Love to service customers and is very pleasant and easy to adapt and learn new challenges. simonethe1@yahoo.com
Experienced Agency Marketing Representative Mature, 2-20 licensed agent, experienced in both commercial and personal lines underwriting and sales. Has a following of brokers/agents throughout the State of Florida. Looking to market insurance products through independent agencies and brokers. toogreatt@yahoo.com 16-6
16-3
Norcross CSR
Norcross based fast-growing Insurance Agency needs Licensed Sales Producers in GA, FL TN SC NC TX IL and OH states for marketing 401k plans, Life Insurance products as well as Health Insurance plans. Proficiency in computers required. Please e-mail resume to girish_talati@hotmail.com
Norcross based fast-growing Insurance Agency needs Experienced CSR . A property and casualty insurance license is preferred. Good computer skills with 2 years experience in Insurance Field. Proficiency in computers required. Please e-mail resume to girish_talati@hotmail. com
EDISON INSURANCE GROUP FORT MYERS If you are a licensed property and casualty agent or licensed CSR, Edison Insurance Group, Fort Myers, FL, established 1984 is looking to round out it’s team of professionals. We currently have openings in our personal lines department as an CSR/Agent, as well as a positions in both outside personal and commercial sales positions. GWolfe@EdisonIns.com
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Agent/CSR Broward County, Florida Independent property and casualty insurance agency, located in the Ft. Lauderdale area is seeking an experienced 220 or 440 licensed individual that can handle a fast paced environment. Bilingual a plus. Salary plus bonus. Call Barbara at 954587-7850.
16-5 www.underwritersinsider.com
The Auto Club Group is seeking P&C sales agents who have… •An active Property and Casualty Insurance License (220) or an active (20-44) A minimum of 1 year successful P&C sales experience and a stable employment history a Strong phone sales and prospecting skills •Ambition and drive We offer a competitive compensation to include: Medical, dental, vision, 401(k) and more... deemorgan@aaasouth.com
Licensed Sales Producers - Norcross
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Property & Casualty Sales Agents Tampa Bay Area
Urgent! 2-20/4-40 COMMERCIAL LINES MIAMI DOWNTOWN LOOKING FOR A 2-2O OR 4-40 TO HANDLE COMMERCIAL LINES WITH 1 YEAR EXPERIENCE, PERSONAL LINES KNOWLEDGE AND NEED TO SPEAK FLUENT ENGLISH & SPANISH WITHOUT PROBLEM - DOWNTOWN MIAMI SEND RESUME: DOLORES@JONRAYINSURANCE.NET 305-883-4604
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Cont’d... 2-20/4-40 COMMERCIAL LINES MIAMI DOWNTOWN LOOKING FOR A 2-2O OR 4-40 TO HANDLE COMMERCIAL LINES WITH 1 YEAR EXPERIENCE, PERSONAL LINE KNOLEDGE APPRECIATE , NEED TO SPEAK AFLUENTLY ENGLISH AND SPANISH, WITHOUT PROBLEM TO WORK IN DOWNTOWN MIAMI SEND RESUME DOLORES@JONRAYINSURANCE.NET PH: 305-883-4604 16-9
North Atlanta Personal LInes Producer Wanted We offer a Cobb/Cherokee work environment with access to many top companies. base + commission, extensive marketing support and a strong referral program. The candidate would acquire an equity position in the agency within a few years based on experience and results. This is a sales and marketing driven position and involves management of a small staff within a commercial oriented agency. presidentsac@yahoo.com 16-9
Medicare Supplement Agents Wanted. Tampa and Tri-County Area No sales experience required, will train upon appointment. Need Health and Life License.Great Commissions with 'A'rated Company. Many other insurance products to offer with this great company. Commissions are paid for life and transferable to beneficiaries. Please contact: Charlotte T. Kocian - GA email: agent.char@yahoo.com 16-9
LOUISIANA BROKER CONVICTED FOR STEALING INSURANCE PREMIUMS IN CALIFORNIA Former LA insurance broker convicted for stealing insurance premiums
L
OS ANGELES, Calif. — Martin McCloskey, 69, of Piñon Hills pleaded guilty to three felony counts of grand theft and theft of fiduciary funds after defrauding his customers by failing to remit to insurance companies more than $58,000 in premiums he collected for commercial property and liability coverage.
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the entire insurance premium "McCloskey violated his he received from policyholders clients' trust and left them at to the insurance company great financial risk when he from October 1, 2009 through stole their premiums and left December 31, 2011. them without coverage," said Insurance Commissioner Dave The insurance company Jones. "My enforcement team extended coverage to the will continue aggressively policyholders affected by pursuing agents and brokers the shortage in premiums. who break the law." The department revoked McCloskey's license on After receiving a complaint December 6, 2012. from an insurance company, investigators with the Sentencing is scheduled for Department of Insurance, December 1, 2016. This case Investigation Division was prosecuted by the Ventura discovered Martin McCloskey, a County District Attorney's licensed broker, failed to remit Office. Table of Contents
October 2016
NEWS
SWISS PARLIAMENT VOTES TO BAN BURQA IN PUBLIC
I
The vote passes 88 to 87 with 10 abstentions
n a move that may be too little - too late, the Swiss parliament extended an existing burqa ban in the Tessin region of Switzerland in a close vote. Fines may reach in excess of $9,000 for anyone breaching the ban should the ruling survive further scrutiny and votes to become law.
Image Credit: Creative Commons
CVP National Councillor Elisabeth Schneider-Schneiter said: “The Burqa is an expression of misogynistic Islamist ideology. This symbol we need to halt. ” The number of Muslim in the country has quintupled in the past 30 years - now approaching a density of about 6% of the population. It seemed to many of the indigenous Swiss that they are in danger of losing their country and culture to a non-assimilating wave of Islamic immigration. While the immigrants were at first welcomed, it soon became apparent the Muslims had no www.underwritersinsider.com
desire to become part of the traditional secular and laid-back Swiss culture, bringing tenets of Sharia law and fundamental Islamic dress. Now there is a significant pushback by the country’s majority population to control those Muslims already in-country and to deny citizenship to any immigrant who chooses not to assimilate into Swiss culture. Recently, two Muslim girls were denied citizenship after refusing to take part in required school swimming lessons because boys would be present in the pool. Switzerland is following an antiglobalist trend in Europe expressed by popular rejection of liberal immigration policies - particularly Muslim immigration. The Swiss in particular are aware the Muslim invasion may destroy their country and have taken steps to prevent the Islamization of the country. Many believe it is already too late. Table of Contents
VIEW THE FAMOUS OBAMA WORKOUT! (Now Banned On YouTube...)
October 2016
37
Notable Quotes In The News and it may not be the last, but our president demonstrates a clear bias in any issue involving black vs white, always coming down on the side of black political interests without And Obama Wonders Why Racial regard to the facts. Sadly, what many had Division Is At A All-Time High... hoped would become a “great uniter” in the new president back in 2008, in fact, has clearly resident Obama’s defense of become the “great divider,” with more racial Colin Kaepernick is shameful tension in this country since 1966.” and intentionally misleading. No one questions Kaepernick’s right to protest. Charles Barkley On The Real Every American can protest any issue no Reasons For Black Cultural Failure matter how biased, bigoted or uninformed. By saying that Kaepernick is raising a nfortunately, as I tell my white legitimate issue when he says that police are friends, we as black people, intentionally killing and targeting Africanwe’re never going to be successful, Americans, President Obama is giving moral cover and approval to hideous slander, and not because of you white people, but because of other propagating the big lie against our black people. When nation’s police emanating from the likes you’re black, you of Black Lives Matter. The facts are that have to deal with so police shootings against whites are the much crap in your same as against African-Americans, and life from other black in almost all cases justified. President people. It’s a dirty, Obama says Kaepernick’s refusal to dark secret; I’m glad stand for the national anthem and his it’s coming out. slander against police is “messy.” No, Mr. One of the reasons President, it is disgraceful. There is no we’re never going moral equivalence between criminals to be successful as like Michael Brown and innocent cops a whole, because who are being assassinated. It is time of other black for America to honestly address racial tensions and injustices. Kaepernick adds Basketball Great Charles Barkley people. And for some reason we are nothing intelligent to the debate. He just inflames those tensions. Sadly, the President brainwashed to think, if you’re not a thug or an idiot, you’re not black enough. If you has chosen to side with Kaepernick.” go to school, make good grades, speak Rep. Peter King coming down hard on Obama intelligent, and don’t break the law, you’re for “propagating the big lie against our not a good black person. And it’s a dirty, dark nation’s police.” It is certainly not the first time secret. It’s best to knock a successful black
SAY WHAT?
P
Image Credit: Creative Commons
U
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October 2016
person down because they’re intelligent, they speak well, they do well in school, and they’re successful…We’re the only ethnic group who say, ‘Hey, if you go to jail, it gives you street cred.’ It’s just typical BS that goes on when you’re black, man.” NBA Legend Charles Barkley telling the obvious truth about why the Black community is failing to keep up in contemporary America. It’s not Whitey. It’s not the cops. It’s not racism. It’s a failed African-American culture that celebrates failure and ostracizes success and integration. It’s the “you are a victim” message of the Progressives and the failed liberal policies that follow. Barkley’s words were in stark contrast to both the words of President Obama and the actions of Black back-up 49er’s quarter-back Colin Kaepernick (and others) who refused to stand during the national anthem.
“Chelsea, Your Parents Are Not Good People...”
didn’t want this to happen but he wouldn’t listen to me. It was a real panicky, panicky situation. I was even to the point where I was getting very noisy, you know, yelling to “Please stop.” And that’s when he pressed down on my right shoulder and he would bite my lip. When everything was over with, he got up and straightened himself, and I was crying at the moment and he walks to the door, and calmly puts on his sunglasses. And before he goes out the door he says “You better get some ice on that.” And he turned and went out the door. Juanita Broaddrick, responding to Chelsea Clinton’s comments and then recounting the horrific rape she endured at the hands of Bill Clinton, the then-Arkansas attorney general in a Little Rock hotel room in 1978. Bill Clinton’s many sexscapades have become an issue in this year’s election cycle due to Hillary’s alleged strong support for victims of sexual assault while demeaning and disrespecting Bill’s many accusers.
Image Credit: Creative Commons
C
helsea,’ you said you don’t remember a time in your life that your parents weren’t being attacked. There’s a very good reason for this---your parents are not good people. [Your father raped me] He starts to bite on my top lip, and I tried to pull away from him. And then he forces me down on the bed. And I just was very frightened, and I tried to get away from him and I told him “No,” that I Sexual Predator? www.underwritersinsider.com
NC Commissioner: “No” To $600M Rate Increase
I
am disappointed the insurance industry has decided to not only ignore but actively challenge my attempts to protect consumers regarding homeowner’s insurance rates,” said Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin. “I rejected the insurance industry’s proposed rate increase because I felt it was unjust and the Court of Appeals upheld my decision.” NC Commissioner Wayne Goodwin after a Court of Appeals affirmed his ruling rejecting an increase in Homeowner’s Rates.
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CHANGING AMERICAN HOUSEHOLDS CREATE NEW INSURANCE IMPLICATIONS
nsure U, a NAIC Resource helps baby boomers and Gen Xers navigate empty-nest reversal Columbia, SC - Nearly half of adults in their 40s and 50s have a parent age 65 or older and are either raising a young child or financially supporting an adult child.
parents than in any other scenario — including living with a spouse or partner, other family or friends or Aging Relatives alone.2 Experts say hosting an adult For seniors, moving in with an adult child can cost between $8,000 and child can be uncomfortable. Before $18,000 per year. the first box is packed, parent and child need to talk about finances, Before welcoming an adult child including insurance. back home, set clear expectations: These baby boomers and members • How will health insurance be of Generation X are covered? Who will American households are feeling the pressure of pay for what? empty-nest reversal • Will we combine experiencing a dramatic shift. from boomerangs – auto policies? How Whether it’s aging parents moving adult children returning will driving records home to live – and in with their grown children or young adults affect premiums? live-in elders – seniors • What belongings moving back in with mom and dad — today’s trading their current are you bringing? households come in all shapes and sizes.” home for a loved one’s Will expensive spare bedroom. In items such as addition to negotiating cooking Consider the following electronics or sporting equipment and cleaning responsibilities, questions: increase homeowners insurance Ray farmer, Director of the South • Are you current on health, auto premiums? Carolina Department of Insurance and life insurance premium encourages families to make sure payments? To avoid misunderstandings, the everyone understands how a • Are you covered by Medicare? National Association of Insurance change in address might affect • Is long-term care insurance Commissioners (NAIC) developed insurance needs. something we should look into? the Welcome Home contract. • What are your end-of-life wishes? In addition to outlining basic “American households are This level of detail will help both rules of adult co-habitation, the experiencing a dramatic shift. parties decide what changes, if any, document places under signature Whether it’s aging parents moving need to be made to existing key insurance-related agreements in with their grown children or coverage. Most importantly, seek between adult child and parent. young adults moving back in to make your loved one feel cared with mom and dad — today’s about, not cared for. For insurance tips to help modern households come in all shapes households of all shapes and sizes and sizes,” said Farmer. “As family Boomerang Kids including baby boomers, same-sex dynamics evolve, the South For the first time in more than 130 couples, single parents, millennials Carolina Department of Insurance years, adults 18-34 years old are and more, visit InsureUonline.org. urges consumers to understand more likely to be living with their www.underwritersinsider.com
the insurance implications of their unique living arrangements.”
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www.zalma.com • web log, “Zalma on Insurance” • videoblog, “Zalma’s Insurance 101”
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INSURANCE & THE LAW by the continuing existence of the gas pumps and, conversely, suffer some loss or disadvantage by the destruction of the pumps. Importantly, Petro Mart growing out of or dependent generated income from the sale of gasoline through the use of upon it. the pumps. The loss of one of In dismissing Petro Mart’s those gas pumps results in a claim, the trial court principally direct and actual pecuniary loss. relied upon the fact that Petro Mart did not have either an The fact that Petro Mart was ownership or leasehold interest not financially responsible for in the gas pumps. While it is repairing any damage to the true that Petro Mart had neither pumps is not controlling—it still of these interests and was not had a pecuniary interest due responsible for the repair of the to the commercial business it pumps, these facts, standing operated. alone, do not preclude a finding We note that while any lost of an insurable interest. business profits appear to not be One of the aspects of Petro Mart’s recoverable under the insurance business was selling gasoline at policy, this fact is immaterial the insured location. The court in determining whether Petro found it incontrovertible that Mart had an insurable interest Petro Mart had more than an in the gas pumps, themselves. incidental, pecuniary interest Because Petro Mart had a in the gas pumps. Petro Mart clear, substantial, and direct necessarily received income and pecuniary interest in the pumps, profits from the use of the gas the court concluded that it pumps, including the one that had an insurable interest in the damaged gas pump. was destroyed in the accident. Continued From Page 9
ZALMA
To determine insurable interest the insurer must determine whether the insured would suffer a direct, pecuniary loss from the property’s destruction. If the answer is “yes” then there is an insurable interest. Without question Petro Mart would gain some advantage www.underwritersinsider.com
Because Petro Mart’s ability to operate its gas station is financially affected by the functioning or non-functioning of the insured gas pumps it had an insurable interest and the decision of the trial court, with regard to Petro Mart, was, therefore reversed.
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ZALMA OPINION A professional insurer should know that ownership is not required to create an insurable interest. Since Petro Mart was damaged by the loss of the pump the determination of coverage should have been easy. Instead, the claim was denied incorrectly and the case had to go through summary judgment motions and an appeal to resolve an obvious issue. Of course, the problem could have been avoided by naming Bazzi as an insured on the policy. The insured, the broker who acquired the policy and the insurer’s ignorance, caused this lawsuit and none are without fault.
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TECHNOLOGY Continued From Page 7
KIM KOMANDO is an additional step you must take to make your accounts and passwords secure. One of the worst things you can do is to use the same password for all the sites you visit. It makes sense. If a hacker gets into one site, they instantly have access to all your other accounts including your Facebook, email, phone, banking and more. That’s why you want to have a unique password for each site you use. There is a simple trick to using an easy to remember passphrase and making your password unique for each site. How you implement it is up to you, but here’s how it works. Let’s say you need a password for your Google account and like me, you love fresh ahi. Your passphrase might be: ilovefreshsashimi-tunawit halittlesoyandwasabiGoo gle or ilovefreshsashimi-tu nawithalittlesoyandwasab iG2016. If the password is for your email account, this would work: ilovefreshsashimitunawithalittlesoyandwasabiEmail. The gist is to first come up with 46
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a passphrase you can remember, and then make it unique in a standard way that makes sense to you. For example, simply adding a few letters or numbers at the beginning or end of the passphrase per site makes each one different.
Facebook, Microsoft and Apple, offer two-factor authentication. Click here to learn how to turn it on for your accounts.
Fortunately, we won’t have to deal with this nonsense too much longer as our passwords will be our biometrics. We’ll gain Internet security company access to accounts by using Kaspersky has a free online our fingerprints, iris and even password strength checker. heartbeat. The challenge here is They said my love of fresh tuna while hacked or stolen passwords passphrase would take over can be readily changed, things 10,000 centuries to be brute- get very problematic when forced. In case you want to check dealing with our fingerprints. it out and try yours, click here. Security is just one of myriad of Not all sites will comply with your topics I discuss on my national newfound password freedom. radio show. From buying advice Some sites will still require to digital life issues, I’d love for one uppercase letter, random you to listen or download the character, or specific length podcasts. Click here to find because their legacy systems your local radio station. If you require it. are looking for topics about everything digital you can listen Be sure you also set up two- to on your phone, tablet or factor authentication, also called computer, click here for my free two-step verification, on your podcasts. accounts to make them even more secure. Don’t let the fancy name throw you. It just means Copyright 2016, WestStar that to log in your account you Multimedia Entertainment. All need two ways to prove you are rights reserved. who you say you are. It’s like the bank or an em+ployer asking for Kim Komando hosts the two forms of ID. nation’s largest weekend radio talk show as she takes calls and The idea is that a hacker is going dispenses advice on today’s to have a much harder time digital lifestyle. Visit Komando. getting both forms of ID, and com for free podcasts, videos, it’s true. Most major services product reviews, shows, tips and companies, such as Google, and advice. Table of Contents
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NEWS
AMERICAN PET INSURANCE COMPANY IN THE DOGHOUSE insurance from was Trupanion, when in fact the company was APIC. State law requires companies to disclose their names accurately to consumers merican Pet (APIC) offers on their policies. pet insurance policies in all 50 states that are sold The company did not consistently by its parent company, Trupanion. apply refund policies to all Companies are During an examination of consumers. the company, Kriedler’s office required to tell consumers identified numerous violations of under which conditions they will provide a refund. In practice, state insurance regulations: they would provide refunds It violated state law that regulates based on other factors that were insurance rates more than 600 not documented. The company
Washington State Busts Company For Multiple Violations
A
information about its products. In addition, it gave discounts to consumers in a discriminatory manner. None of the employees who sold insurance to Washington consumers were licensed insurance producers. Anyone who sells insurance in Washington state must be a licensed producer. It violated state law that regulates insurance forms more than 1,600 times.
The company failed to give more than 9,000 times. Most of the policyholders violations were related None of the employees who sold their initial and to charging rates insurance to Washington consumers annual privacy that the Insurance notices. Commissioner did not were licensed insurance producers. [The The company approve, as required company] violated state law that regulates failed to give by law. a copy of the insurance forms more than 1,600 times.” policy to new The company didn’t policyholders in cancel policies in a timely manner after pets’ also would not sell insurance to a timely manner 196 times. deaths, after a consumer no people without an email address, The company didn’t clearly longer owned a pet, and when a which is discriminatory under explain to some consumers the state law. reason it canceled or did not consumer canceled a policy. renew their policies. The company had no audit The company did not adequately track all consumer complaints Kreidler suspended an additional policies or procedures in place. and failed to respond to some $100,000 fine, which APIC will pay if it commits the same violations APIC failed to use its legal complaints. in two years or if it doesn’t name on communications with policyholders. In other words, The company’s marketing and complete a compliance plan to consumers thought the insurance sales information contained remedy the violations identified. company they were buying pet false, deceptive and misleading www.underwritersinsider.com
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