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Technical Risk Underwriters announces partnership with RLI Insurance Company

November 19, 2014 AUSTIN, TX - Technical Risk Underwriters (TRU), a division of RSG Underwriting Managers, LLC, has announced an underwriting partnership with RLI Insurance Company. This partnership marries TRU's well-respected and rapidly expanding Course of Construction ("Builders Risk") underwriting capabilities with RLI's highly-rated capacity and proven expertise in catastrophe management.

Targeted classes include the entire span of U.S. construction including multi-family residential, commercial/mixed-use, hospitals, infrastructure and heavy civil works. Coverage will be written by RLI's non-admitted surplus lines insurer, Mt. Hawley Insurance Company. The addition of the RLI catastrophe capacity further entrenches TRU as the leader in providing these coverages to the Builders Risk marketplace.

TRU's President and CEO, Michael J. Pilla, says of the RLI partnership, "We are extremely pleased to announce this important partnership with one of the flagship insurance providers here in the U.S. It represents an important step toward our goal of enhancing our underwriting capabilities and providing to our clients capacity that goes well beyond that available from traditional providers. Our partnership with RLI is integral to TRU's overall strategy of providing market leading capacity to our customers and creating unique risk management solutions for the evolving challenges they face."

For more information on this release, contact Ryan Scheinfeld, (404) 387-6954, rscheinfeld@truins.com

About Technical Risk Underwriters
Technical Risk Underwriters (TRU) is a specialty underwriter of insurance products for complex property and construction risks. Brokers rely on TRU to provide market-leading service and expertise for aligning policy-coverage and customized loss-control programs with each client's unique exposures. www.truins.com.

About RLI
RLI (NYSE: RLI), a specialty insurance company, offers a diversified portfolio of property and casualty coverages and surety bonds serving niche or underserved markets. RLI operates in all 50 states from office locations across the country. RLI's insurance subsidiaries - RLI Insurance Company, Mt. Hawley Insurance Company, RLI Indemnity Company and Contractors Bonding and Insurance Company - are rated A+ "Superior" by A.M. Best Company.

RSG hires Mark Peeters to head up new London MGA

November 12, 2014, LONDON - Ryan Specialty Group (RSG), the global specialty insurance services business based in Chicago, has announced the appointment of Mark Peeters as CEO of a new London-based D&O MGA.

Mr Peeters, who was previously chief professional liability underwriter at Argo Re in Bermuda, will join a newly formed subsidiary of RSGUM (Europe), on 15 November, 2014, reporting to Mike Rice, Sr., chairman of RSG Underwriting Managers.

Mr Rice explained that the new MGA will focus on writing excess layers of Fortune 1000 companies' policies and primary cover for smaller public companies, as well as privately held companies. He said that capacity will be in place shortly after Mr Peeters takes up his role.

He said: "I am delighted to welcome Mark to RSG to oversee this important new initiative for our business. We believe there are significant opportunities for RSG in the D&O market segment, and Mark's experience and market knowledge will be instrumental in driving forward our growth plans in the United States and beyond.

Mr Peeters said: "After a 30-year career as an underwriter specialising in professional liability cover, it's an exciting time to be joining RSG, and I am looking forward to fulfilling our ambitious plans in the London insurance market.

Mr Peeters, a British national, spent five years at Argo in Bermuda, where he was also the CEO of ArgoGlobalSE, a Malta-domiciled European insurer. Previously, between 1998-2008, he undertook a variety of senior underwriting roles at XL Insurance, including the role of chief underwriting officer for professional liability. During his career he has also worked for Marsh, Aon and Johnson & Higgins (before and after its acquisition by Marsh).

London office address: 1st Floor, 40 Gracechurch Street, London, EC3V 0BT
Mark Peeters cell: + 441/300-3724

For more information on this release, contact
Ben Welsh (UK) 07568 382040
Angie Tegan; 312/339-4970; angie.tegan@ryansg.com

About Ryan Specialty Group, LLC
Ryan Specialty Group, LLC is a global holding company which includes a wholesale brokerage, highly-specialized underwriting companies, a Lloyd's insurer and specialty services designed specifically for agents, brokers and insurers. www.ryansg.com

Ryan Specialty Group's RT Specialty Acquires Tennessee Underwriters, Inc.

NOVEMBER 4, 2014, CHICAGO, IL - Ryan Specialty Group's wholesale brokerage, R-T Specialty, LLC (RT) today announced that it has acquired the assets of excess and surplus broker, Tennessee Underwriters, Inc. (TUI).

TUI is one of the southeastern region's most trusted surplus lines markets, with strong relationships and binding authorities from respected carriers in the domestic and international marketplace. A family-owned business, TUI was formed in 1980 to provide property and casualty insurance products to independent insurance agents in Tennessee.

RT President & CEO, Timothy W. Turner says, "TUI is highly respected in the brokerage and carrier community. Their existing operations and experience will be the basis for expanding RT's presence in that area as well as our binding authority capabilities. This growth will enable RT to continue to provide best-in-class service to customers and carriers."

Tennessee Underwriters owner and president, Donna Guest, adds, "TUI is known for our strong relationships and binding authorities with respected carriers. As a result, we are a valuable resource to Tennessee's independent agents. We look forward to joining with RT and expanding our existing capabilities. This is a win-win for clients."

Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

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

About Ryan Specialty Group, LLC and R-T Specialty, LLC
Ryan Specialty Group, LLC is a global holding company which includes wholesale broker R-T Specialty, LLC, a select group of highly-specialized underwriting companies, a London operation and other specialty services designed specifically for agents, brokers and insurers. www.ryansg.com and www.rtspecialty.com

About Tennessee Underwriters, Inc.
A family-owned business, Tennessee Underwriters, Inc. was formed in 1980. TUI provides property and casualty insurance products to Tennessee insurance agents and brokers. Headquartered in Franklin, TN, TUI is one of the region's most trusted surplus lines markets. It has strong relationships and binding authority with respected carriers in the domestic and international marketplace.

Clarion Associates, US Assure Awarded TMPAA Best Practice Honors

Wilmington, DE (October 2014)– The Target Markets Program Administrators Association (TMPAA) awarded two of its member agencies, Clarion Associates and US Assure the Association’s Best Practice Designation at their recent 14th Annual Summit in Scottsdale, AZ.

Dave Springer, TMPAA President and President/COO of NIP Group, Inc. stated, “The TMPAA continues to serve the unique needs of program specialists. Our Best Practice Designation and the recognition of our most accomplished member organizations is at the core of the professionalism that the Association strives to promote across all of our program administrator membership. It is through the Best Practice Designation that we celebrate the achievements of our members who function at the highest – demonstrating expertise in all phases of program administration. We are pleased to recognize Clarion Associates and US Assure as our newest Best Practice Designation recipients.”

"It is always rewarding to have external validation of what you work so diligently to ensure and achieve every day. Combined with the organizational review involved in the designation process, this was a very beneficial undertaking for US Assure," said Ryan Schwartz, Chief Marketing Officer, US Assure.

“Clarion’s professional staff and their commitment to excellence is the driving force behind our earning the distinguished ‘Best Practices’ designation. While past and present carrier partners are familiar with our high performance, now those who have not done business with us will also have this information. Validation that you are a leader in program business is priceless,” said Dan Schoenfeld, CEO of Clarion Associates, Inc.

The Association’s 14th Annual Summit was attended by close to 800 Program Business Professionals including 185 agencies and the group’s 53 carriers. Keynote presentations were provided by former FBI Director, Robert Mueller and Stephen Catlin, Chief Executive and Deputy Chairman, Catlin Group Limited. Both shared their insights on leadership and current world affairs.

The TMPAA’s 2015 Mid Year Meeting is scheduled for May 4-6 in Atlanta, GA. Program specialists/MGAs interested in learning more about the TMPAA Best Practice Designation or the Association can find information at www.targetmarkets.com or by calling 877-347-5700.

Information about Clarion Associates can be found at www.clarionins.com and US Assure at www.usassure.com.

175,000 Submissions Processed Through Appulate

Leading Insurance Automation Company Achieves Major Milestone

Agoura Hills, CA – October 29, 2014 Appulate, Inc., the leading provider of submission automation to the property and casualty sector of the insurance industry has announced that its technology has now been used to process nearly 200,000 submissions between retail agents and carriers.

Since launching its state of the art, “Submission Management” portal in 2011, retail agents have made more than 175,000 submissions using Appulate, nearly 100,000 of which were completed in 2014. As a fully functional portal (offering rate, quote, bind and issuance), carries and MGA’s use Appulate to make it easier to do business with retail agents. The program offers agents upload directly out of their agency management system to save data entry time, provides real-time quote and allows agents to bind policies with ease.

“This milestone is a confirmation that the industry is embracing automation,” said Vanessa Duliere, Director of Customer Development at Appulate, Inc.

The automation that Appulate provides was initially developed for a single line of business (Workers’ Comp) and primarily used in Appulate’s home state of California. Today, the product serves the needs of more than 15 lines of business and has usage nationwide.

“There is no better feeling than to know that the work you do has a positive impact and we take tremendous pride from knowing we are helping agents, brokers, MGAs and carriers operate more effectively,” noted Duliere.

About Appulate
Appulate, “The Insurance Automation Company™” offers an unprecedented level of automation to streamline the submission processes through its innovative abilities to bridge data between insurance systems. Today, Appulate technology is used by more than 14,000 retail agents and has been recognized by key industry groups and analysts for its contribution to time and cost savings. The combination of Appulate’s advanced technology, outstanding level of service and high value proposition has made them one of the fastest growing technology companies that serve the insurance industry.

Ryan Specialty Group makes senior London hire

October 28, 2014, LONDON, UK - Ryan Specialty Group (RSG), the global specialty insurance services business based in Chicago, has hired Peter McKenna into a new senior role to oversee the development of the company MGA strategy in the UK market.

McKenna, who has joined RSG from AIG, will be based in London and report to Mike Rice, Sr., chairman of RSG Underwriting Managers.

Mr Rice said: "I am delighted that someone of Peter's calibre and experience is joining our UK team. He will be responsible for the formation and management of MGAs in the UK insurance marketplace and help us achieve our goals of providing products and services to a wide number of carriers, brokers and agents."

Mr Rice explained that while the Group's new foothold in London will "help expand our presence in Europe and the Middle East initially, in the longer term we may also look to Latin and South America and Asia." He added: "London remains one of the world's most dynamic insurance markets, and through Peter's appointment, we look forward to tapping into the many opportunities which exist here."

Mr McKenna said: "Mike painted a compelling picture of the strategic opportunity for RSG in this market, and I am keen to play my part in delivering profitable growth and meeting the long term strategic aims of the business."

Before joining RSG, Mr McKenna spent 12 years in a variety of senior roles at AIG in the USA, Canada and the UK, most recently as head of financial lines, EMEA, where between 2012-2014 he led a significant and successful change programme.

For more information on this release, contact:
Ben Welsh; 07568 382040
Angie Tegan; + 1 312/339-4970; angie.tegan@ryansg.com (USA)

About Ryan Specialty Group, LLC
Ryan Specialty Group, LLC is a global holding company which includes a wholesale brokerage, highly-specialized underwriting companies, a Lloyd's insurer and specialty services designed specifically for agents, brokers and insurers. www.ryansg.com

Roger Sitkins and Larry Linne Launch New Ventures

Embracing the Challenge of Change

Announcing -- the successful perpetuation of Sitkins International to InCite Performance Group. Perpetuating a consulting business with Roger's market presence and brand was a daunting challenge. Roger's commitment to doing what he teaches has made it happen.

What Does Perpetuation of Sitkins International Mean?
Roger has sold the business to Larry Linne (current CEO) and a group of investors that includes several current employees. Roger knows that working in the company after you sell it is always tough on the former owner and the organization. So he and Larry came up with a creative way for him to stay engaged and stay in the industry but not be an employee at the company he sold.

So what is Roger up to? He’s immersed in his own new venture, an online agency consultancy called Sitkins Select, aimed at helping small and mid-sized agencies achieve big-agency results in sales and retention. Roger will assist over the next year or so transitioning clients and relationships as a consultant to InCite Performance Group. This will provide a strong perpetuation transition for the Members.

Why Did We Do This?
You’ve probably heard Roger say several times, "Everyone eventually leaves their business." The important element of this is deciding when. Roger is convinced the timing is right to perpetuate the business and create new opportunities for employees, clients, and existing leadership. Additionally, Roger wants to give back to the industry. He will do this through Sitkins Select.

The Members of Sitkins have voiced concern about the perpetuation of the firm for several years. This change eliminates that concern and allows everyone to focus on the work at hand knowing it will have a long life.

The employees of Sitkins (now InCite Performance Group) will have opportunities for continued perpetuation and growth. They will also have certainty of a long term future.

Why the Name Change?
Roger will be operating the new online business as Sitkins Select. Operating two businesses with the same name would be confusing to the market. It is important that both companies develop a unique brand.

InCite will always be reflective and ingrained with the Sitkins name. It is our foundation as are the teachings and intellectual property that we purchased.

What is Different?
Not a lot! This company has been a leader in the insurance industry for a long time. We will continue to do what we do well.

We currently provide training, custom advisory services, and networking opportunities. We are now going to add "resources" to the product offering. These resources will be insurance products, captive insurance training and certification, services to provide insurance agency clients that will support the insurance products, presentation skills training, and more.

New Advisors - We have new consulting specialty in the employee benefits industry with the addition of Mark Lacher. Mark has been recognized as one of the top EB Producers in the US. We also have plans to add other specialty Advisors in critical areas where agencies need support

Jim Lewis Appointed Director of Regional Sales for Berkshire Hathaway GUARD

Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies recently promoted Jim Lewis to Director of Regional Sales to address recent and planned growth in the central region of the country. In his new capacity, Lewis will oversee sales operations in Arkansas, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Texas, and Wisconsin. Prior to his current position, Lewis served three years as a Senior Sales Representative.

According to Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Vice President of Sales Dave Simmons, "With our significant growth and expansion into new states and our addition of several Field Representatives, we recognized the need for more management personnel to help oversee our sales activities and ensure that existing agents are well served and that available appointments are filled with the best possible candidates." Simmons further noted, "Jim Lewis was carefully chosen both for his excellent track record with us and his nearly 30 years of industry experience in the area. He knows his marketplace extremely well."

Berkshire Hathaway GUARD has been a specialist in writing workers' compensation coverage for small- to mid-sized accounts for over a quarter century. In recent years, the company has also begun writing complementary Businessowner's Policy (BOP), Commercial Umbrella/Excess, and Commercial Auto in select states with plans to eventually offer those additional lines throughout a national geographical footprint. That product (BizGUARD Plus) was introduced in Illinois this past summer and in California during the last quarter of 2013.

According to Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Vice President of Property and Casualty Sales Tom Denis, "Our goal is to offer one-stop insurance shopping for small- to medium-sized businesses. The fact that annual sales of these newer lines have grown to over $50 million in just a few years suggests our excellent market acceptance."

In October of 2012, GUARD Insurance Group was acquired by National Indemnity Company, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway - an international holding company with diverse interests that include insurance and reinsurance. In 2013, GUARD unveiled a new logo and identity as Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies. Each of the organization's insurance company subsidiaries are rated A+ ("Superior") by A.M. Best - a leading source of independent rating information on the insurance industry.

In 2013, Berkshire Hathaway GUARD wrote gross written premium of a half billion dollars for over 70,000 policyholders. Agents interested in learning more can contact the company on-line at www.guard.com/apply.

Philadelphia Insurance Donating $30,000 for ALS Association Ice Bucket Challenge

PHLY’s donation is on behalf of 540 employees who took the challenge at offices across the country. Bala Cynwyd, PA August 27, 2014 – Philadelphia Insurance Companies’ executive team challenged its employees to take the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, with the incentive of donating $50 to the ALS Association for each employee who accepted the challenge. On Friday, August 22nd, 540 employees from PHLY’s offices across the country filled up their buckets and dumped in the ice to answer the challenge.

PHLY Ice Bucket Challenge
Youtube video - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q74IgpIzTyc

“We received emails from employees thanking us, as they had lost loved ones to this hideous disease,” shared President and CEO Bob O’Leary. “I am extremely grateful to our employees who took part. The Ice Bucket Challenge was a fun way to engage our employees in raising money and awareness for ALS research.”

Employees in California got creative due to an extreme drought in the state. They used bird seed in place of water to comply with local restrictions. PHLY is donating $27,000 to the ALS Association for the 540 employees who took the challenge. PHLY is donating another $3,000 to the ALS Association to match contributions already made by employees to support ALS related charities.

Philadelphia Insurance has donated more than $14 million to charitable organizations and missions since 1980. To learn more about the efforts of TEAMPHLY, visit www.teamphly.com.

About PHLY
Philadelphia Insurance Companies, a member of the Tokio Marine Group, designs, markets, and underwrites commercial property/casualty and professional liability insurance products incorporating value added coverages and services for select industries. In operation since 1962, the Company, whose commercial lines insurance subsidiaries are rated "A++" (Superior) by A.M. Best Company and "A+" for counterparty credit and financial strength by Standard & Poor’s, is nationally recognized as a member of Ward's Top 50, National Underwriter’s Top 100, and one of the Top 150 Workplaces in America. Policies are underwritten by Philadelphia Indemnity Insurance Company. The organization has 49 offices strategically located across the United States to provide superior service. For more information, please visit www.phly.com.

Disabled Veterans Insurance Careers announces 2014-15 board officers

Disabled Veterans Insurance Careers has announced the 2014-15 board officers: James R. Pender, chairman emeritus; Gary V. Trippe, chairman; General James L. Dozier, vice-chairman; and Gay G. Trippe, secretary-treasurer.

The organization’s operating board consists of retired U.S. Army Maj. Gen. James L. Dozier; Roger C. Mercado Jr., Community Cooperative Ministries Inc.; James R. Pender CPCU, CLU, ChFC, ARM, Oswald Trippe and Company, co-founder; Gary V. Trippe CIC, Oswald Trippe and Company, co-founder and chairman; retired insurance agency executive Gay Trippe, co-founder; and John M. Pollock, CIC, BB&T Insurance Services; retired U.S. Army Col. Thomas A. Dials, chairman emeritus of the Armed Forces Insurance Corporation; and Dr. J.R. Harding, The Agency for Persons with Disabilities.

Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Gary L. Bryant is president and CEO.

Disabled Veterans Insurance Careers is a nonprofit organization with the mission to educate, train and create meaningful employment opportunities within the insurance industry for disabled veterans. For additional information, call 239-433-8523 or visit www.DVIC.us.

Heidi Strommen Named TMPAA President Elect

Wilmington, DE (August 4, 2014)– The Target Markets Program Administrators Association (TMPAA) announced that Heidi Strommen has been elected to serve as the TMPAA President following the completion of current President David Springer’s term in January 2015.

Ms. Strommen began her insurance career as a Policy Analyst at the Minnesota Department of Commerce in 1986. During her career at the Commerce Department she also served as Executive Director of the Minnesota Medical Malpractice Joint Underwriting Association and the Minnesota PetroFund. She joined ProHost USA, Inc. in 1990 as Vice President of Operations. ProHost is a national program administrator based in Minneapolis, Minnesota specializing in restaurant insurance. In 1994, she joined the Board of Directors of ProHost and its parent company. In 2008, Ms. Strommen was named President of ProHost. She is a charter member of the TMPAA where she serves as a Board Member and Chairperson of the Women's Networking Committee. She attained the Certified Programs Leader (CPL) Designation from the TMPAA in 2013. Ms. Strommen has authored articles about insuring restaurant exposures for various industry magazines including Risk & Insurance, Insurance Journal, Agent and Broker and Rough Notes. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Cornell University.

“The TMPAA has a history of strong leadership provided by past presidents, the Advisory Board and talented staff members, all of whom have helped make the Association the effective organization that it is today,” stated Heidi Strommen. “Dave Springer continued that tradition these last two years and has done a superb job as President. I’m looking forward to continuing to build on Target Market’s strengths by working with all stakeholders to determine the best alignment of the Association’s products and services with their needs. Data-driven strategies will be particularly important in the coming months and we will be working diligently to develop and deliver more offerings that address this crucial area in a useful way. As a charter member, I have enjoyed 13 years of building strategic partnerships which have played an integral role in our company’s program administration success. Helping program specialists build those key partnerships and make those connections will remain the TMPAA’s core mission as we move ahead.”

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

The Association’s 14th Annual Summit is scheduled for October 20-22 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Over 800 Program Business Professionals including decision makers from 54 program markets are expected to be in attendance.

Program Specialists/MGAs interested in learning more about the TMPAA or attending the fall Summit meeting can visit the Association website at www.targetmarkets.com, call 877-347-5700 or contact Ray Scotto, TMPAA Executive Director at ray.scotto@targetmkts.com.

Disabled veteran begins new career training with DVIC in Chicago

CHICAGO (July 24, 2014) - Disabled Veterans Insurance Careers announces the selection of David Drew to begin career training for employment in the Chicago insurance industry.

Raised in the Chicago area, Drew enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps for four years and became an expert in rockets and demolitions. During his second tour in the Middle East, his unit was tasked with the Fallujah attack, which is considered the deadliest battle since Hue City, Vietnam. Drew was the first squad leader through Fallujah and helped lead his Marines to victory.

Drew was awarded numerous medals and ribbons, including Unit Accommodations for outstanding service and for the overall success of the missions he led and his highest achievement award, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with a Combat V for Valor. After being honorably discharged, he worked for Grubb & Ellis Company in Rosemont, Illinois.

In addition to Drew's position with DVIC's pilot partner, Hub International located in downtown Chicago, he is utilizing the Montgomery GI Bill to obtain a psychology degree at Governors State University.

"David qualified for the paid on-the-job training program, licensing and certification that will develop long-term sales and customer service skills as account executive in the insurance industry," said President/CEO Gary Bryant. "Our training and sales positions provide salary-based employment working with existing customers."

The course curriculum was developed by The National Alliance for Insurance Education and Research in Austin, Texas, and Fort Myers-based sales trainer and consultant Lee Knapp. Account executives are responsible for producing new business by cross-selling personal lines insurance products on behalf of leading independent insurance agencies.

Interested disabled veterans can apply by submitting a current resume to jobs@dvic.us.

The organization's operating board consists of retired U.S. Army Maj. Gen. James L. Dozier; Roger C. Mercado Jr., Community Cooperative Ministries Inc.; James R. Pender CPCU, CLU, ChFC, ARM, Oswald Trippe and Company, co-founder; Gary V. Trippe CIC, Oswald Trippe and Company, co-founder and chairman; retired insurance agency executive Gay Trippe, co-founder; and John M. Pollock, CIC, BB&T Insurance Services; retired U.S. Army Col. Thomas A. Dials, chairman emeritus of the Armed Forces Insurance Corporation; and Dr. JR Harding, The Agency for Persons with Disabilities.

Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Gary L. Bryant is president and CEO.

Disabled Veterans Insurance Careers is a nonprofit organization with the mission to educate, train and create meaningful employment opportunities within the insurance industry for disabled veterans. For additional information, call 239-433-8523 or visit www.DVIC.us.

NAS Insurance Announces Key Management Appointments and Promotions

Encino, CA: NAS Insurance Services today announced the promotion of three key managers and executives across the company.

Chris Reese has been promoted to Director of Underwriting. In her newly expanded role, Chris will lead the orientation, training and development program for the entire underwriting department across all of NAS' specialty lines.

"We are thrilled to have Chris share her expertise with the entire NAS underwriting team," remarked Richard Robin, CEO. "As we continue to grow, it is essential that our underwriting standards remain at the highest level and Chris' extensive experience in all aspects of the business is a great asset in the development of our underwriting staff."

Ms. Anita Bryant is promoted to Assistant Vice President, Underwriting, with responsibilities to support and grow NAS' program business and reinsurance partnerships.

"Anita is a trusted advisor to many of our partners," commented Michael Palotay, Senior Vice President of Underwriting. "She has been an essential member of the underwriting team for 12 years and has played an important role in driving the widespread adoption of our NAS Online platform that has fueled much of our recent growth."

Desiree Khoury is now Assistant Vice President of Specialty Reinsurance, leading new business development efforts for the company's reinsurance services. "For the past 3 years, Desiree has helped NAS expand our overall reinsurance business into new areas," commented David Lloyd, NAS' Chief Operating Officer. "She embodies NAS' entrepreneurial spirit and is a true collaborator in developing and implementing innovative programs with our partners."

NAS is a full-service specialty insurance underwriting manager that provides product development, underwriting, marketing, risk management and claims handling. NAS insurance products and programs are distributed through brokers and as tailored solutions for mutual insurance carriers.

For more information about these recent promotions or about NAS, please contact:
Jeremy Barnett, Senior Vice President of Marketing
NAS Insurance Services
818.382.6116

Risk Partners Welcomes Sotirios P. Thomas

Risk Partners, Inc., an industry leader in workers' compensation, alternative risk and specialty programs, has added Sotirios P. Thomas.

Sotirios brings his Risk Control background and his experience in underwriting and placement of loss sensitive accounts to expand Risk Partners' Alternative Risk Division. Sotirios has obtained the Associate in Risk Management designation and provided safety consulting for public joint insurance funds, restaurant groups, distributors and manufacturers instituting effective risk control strategies. Sotirios understands the complexities of Deductibles, Retros and Captives as it relates to risk assessment and retaining underwriting profit for insureds. He is nationally known and respected by insureds, agents and insurance companies for successfully placing and maintaining profitable business.

Sotirios will also work with Risk Partners' agency partners to expand Risk Partners' multi- line group captive. Take advantage of Sotirios' experience and Risk Partners' Alternative Risk Markets.

Sotirios can be reached directly at sthomas@riskpartnersinc.com - 609-498-6046

About Risk Partners, Inc.
Founded in 2004 and headquartered in Medford, NJ, RPI is a specialty workers' compensation and commercial auto managing underwriter and alternative risk provider, dedicated to serving independent agents and brokers throughout the country. Our placement team provides our clients (agents and brokers) the most stable and diverse platform available in the industry - ranging from small account placements to sophisticated captive structures.

Ultra Risk Advisors Awarded Best in Show Honor for External Corporate Electronic Communications

Bellevue, Wash. – July 2, 2014 – Ultra Risk Advisors, a national insurance program manager, was the recipient of a “Best of Show” award for its website at the Insurance Marketing & Communications Association’s (IMCA) Annual Conference Showcase Gala.

The IMCA Showcase Awards recognize the best and most innovative works from creators in the insurance marketing and communications field. The Best of Show award is given to the one entry with the highest score for each category. Ultra’s website design entry earned the highest score for the category of External Electronic Communications.

“It’s definitely an honor to receive a nod from our peers in the insurance industry for our creative website design,” said Chris Randall, president and CEO of Ultra Risk Advisors. “Our approach has always been to make things easier for our broker partners and we believe our new website provides a positive user experience while telling the story of who we are and how we serve our clients,” Randall said.

Ultra Risk Advisors, formerly the healthcare division of National Specialty Underwriters, launched in November 2012. The objectives for the new company’s website were to support the creation of the new brand while using less text and more graphics and videos to communicate with visitors to the site.

Ultra has programs for outpatient medical facilities, placement of non-standard physicians, radiology groups and imaging facilities, long term care facilities as well as healthcare professionals in the correctional field.

About Ultra Risk Advisors:
Ultra Risk Advisors is a privately held commercial insurance program administrator and specialty wholesale broker based in Bellevue, Wash. The company also has offices in Atlanta, Chicago, Columbus and Houston. Ultra specializes in professional and general liability insurance in the healthcare field.

For more information, visit www.ultrariskadvisors.com.

Beacon Hill Associates Welcomes Ursula Knowles as Assistant Vice President, Information Development

Beacon Hill Associates, Inc. has announced the hiring of Ursula Knowles as Assistant Vice President, Information Development. She will be responsible for creating informational resources for the company, and providing customized educational solutions for partner retail and wholesale agents. Ursula has over twenty-four years of experience in the insurance industry, working in a variety of capacities, including underwriting, engineering, claims management, risk control, and knowledge management.

"We are very excited to have someone with Ursula's talent and experience join our team," said Bill Pritchard, Beacon Hill's President. "As we continue to see a division in our space between those who truly understand environmental exposures and coverages and share that knowledge with their partner agencies, and those who simply offer a quote, having the talent and experience of Ursula to develop our informational tools will be invaluable."

For the past twenty-three years, Beacon Hill Associates, Inc. has been a leader in providing environmental liability insurance nationwide. Although the company concentrates primarily on environmental business, it also works with agencies on other technically challenging specialty coverages. The organization has two divisions; the wholesale brokerage department, tasked with pursuing appropriate coverage for agents from several top insurance carriers; and the PartnerOne Environmental® underwriting division, specializing in assessing risks and offering an array of environmental insurance products.

Additional information on Beacon Hill Associates and its products and services can be found at www.b-h-a.com or by calling 1-800-596-2156.

Ultra Risk Advisors Named Marketing Award Winner by TMPAA

Bellevue, Wash. – June 5, 2014 – Ultra Risk Advisors, a national insurance program manager, received an award of marketing excellence from the Target Markets Program Administrators Association (TMPAA) for its newly designed website. TMPAA co-sponsored the insurance industry competition with Insurance Marketing & Communications Association (IMCA). The competition judges entries based on creative design and marketplace impact.

“We are honored that TMPAA has recognized Ultra for excellence in our website design,” said Chris Randall, president and CEO of Ultra. “We set out to create a vehicle for telling our story and we’re very pleased with the outcome – our site offers a positive user experience with easy access to product information and at the same time reflects our brand personality.”

Ultra Risk Advisors, formerly the healthcare division of National Specialty Underwriters, launched in November 2012. The objectives for the new company’s website were to support the creation of the new brand while using less text and more graphics and videos to communicate with visitors to the site.

Ultra has programs for outpatient medical facilities, placement of non-standard physicians, radiology groups and imaging facilities, long term care facilities as well as healthcare professionals in the correctional field.

About Ultra Risk Advisors:

Ultra Risk Advisors is a privately held commercial insurance program administrator and specialty wholesale broker based in Bellevue, Wash. The company also has offices in Atlanta, Chicago, Columbus and Houston. Ultra specializes in professional and general liability insurance in the healthcare field.

For more information, visit www.ultrariskadvisors.com.

BB&T Insurance Services promotes Littlestone to senior vice president

FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 30, 2014) - BB&T Insurance Services has promoted Gino Littlestone to senior vice president in BB&T-Oswald Trippe and Company's commercial lines division specializing in condominiums.

Employed with BB&T-OTC for more than 18 years, the Southwest Florida native earned a Bachelor of Science degree in hospitality management from Florida International University.

Littlestone holds a Florida Insurance license 2-20. The largest producing agent in Florida, he received BB&T-OTC's President's Club Award eight times for exceeding goals by 10 percent, the Community Association Institute's Outstanding Service Award and the YMCA Frank Mullins Award for Giving for Strong Kids Campaign.

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

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

BB&T is one of the largest financial services holding companies in the U.S. with $ 181.1 billion in assets and market capitalization of $23.8 billion, as of Sept. 30, 2013. Based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, the company operates 1,824 financial centers in 12 states and Washington, D.C. and offers a full range of consumer and commercial banking, securities brokerage, asset management, mortgage and insurance products and services. A Fortune 500 company, BB&T is consistently recognized for outstanding client satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates, the U.S. Small Business Administration, Greenwich Associates and others.

More information about BB&T and its full line of products and services is available at www.BBT.com.

Ultra Risk Advisors Has Hired Brad Granger, Vice President, Long Term Care Insurance Program

Bellevue, Wash., – June 2, 2014 – Brad Granger has joined Ultra Risk Advisors, a national program manager, as vice president of underwriting for Ultra LTC – a new program providing liability coverage for senior living facilities. Granger brings more than 20 years of experience in operations and risk management in the long term care industry. He is a licensed nursing home administrator as well as a licensed P & C producer. He holds a BSBA in finance from Ohio State University and an MBA from Franklin University.

“We feel fortunate to have recruited someone of Brad’s caliber for this position,” said Chris Randall, President and CEO of Ultra Risk Advisors. “He has knowledge and expertise in all the right areas of long term care – operations, risk management and underwriting analytics. Brad’s experience has helped us bring a superior product to the marketplace. Among other things, his expertise in risk management will bring a significant advantage to our broker partners.”

Ultra LTC is a comprehensive program – including risk management services – designed to meet the specific needs of long term care facilities. A limited national distribution network of 20 retail brokers is currently being formed.

About Ultra Risk Advisors:
Ultra Risk Advisors is a privately held commercial insurance program administrator and specialty wholesale broker based in Bellevue, Wash. The company also has offices in Atlanta, Chicago, Columbus and Houston. Ultra specializes in professional and general liability insurance in the healthcare field.

For more information, visit www.ultrariskadvisors.com.

3,676 People Complete Philadelphia Insurance Companies’ Distracted Driving Course

38% of people who visited PHLY.com/safedriving took National Distracted Driving Month course.

Bala Cynwyd, PA, May 1, 2014 – Throughout the month of April, Philadelphia Insurance Companies (PHLY) aimed to help reduce distracted driving accidents by offering a complimentary, 20-minute online training for National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The course was completed by more than 3,500 people, including insurance agents, customers, and the general public.

The course explained the major types of distractions, which can occur inside or outside of a car, and steps to take to avoid these distractions. After viewing the course, participants took a survey to help retain the information they learned and receive a certificate of completion. The first 1,500 people who completed the survey will receive a free first aid kit for their car. Throughout the month of April, 38% of people who logged on to PHLY.com/safedriving completed the course to earn their certificate.

“This was the first time we offered an online risk management course like this and word spread like wildfire. The initial feedback from people who took the course was positive and they were excited to share it on social media and forward the course to others,” said Mark Konchan, vice president of Risk Management Services for Philadelphia Insurance Companies. “Dozens of insurance agents shared the course and businesses provided the training to their employees to improve risk management. We hope the training will help people avoid distractions while they’re on the road and reduce the risk of accidents.”

National Distracted Driving Awareness Month was created by the National Safety Council (NSC). The NSC says there is an automobile crash every 30 seconds involving a cell phone and texting. Cell phones are just one type of distraction that may have contributed to more than 5.6 million crashes the national Traffic Safety Administration reported in 2012.

For more information about PHLY Risk Management Services, please visit our website at www.PHLY.com/RMS or contact a PHLY Marketing Representative at 1-800-873-4552.

About Philadelphia Insurance
Philadelphia Insurance Companies designs, markets, and underwrites commercial property/casualty and professional liability insurance products incorporating value added coverages and services for select industries. In operation since 1962, the Company, whose commercial lines insurance subsidiaries are rated ’A++’ (Superior) by A.M. Best Company and ’AA-’ for counterparty credit and financial strength by Standard & Poor’s, is nationally recognized as a member of Ward's Top 50, National Underwriter’s Top 100, and one of the Top 150 Workplaces in America. Policies are underwritten by Philadelphia Indemnity Insurance Company. The organization has 49 offices strategically located across the United States to provide superior service. For more information, please visit www.PHLY.com.

PartnerOne Environmental® Welcomes Vonnie Nuce as Senior Underwriter

PartnerOne Environmental has announced the hiring of Vonnie Nuce as Senior Underwriter, based in their Denver, Colorado office. She will be responsible for underwriting new and renewal business for all PartnerOne products. Vonnie has over twenty-five years of experience in the insurance industry, working in a variety of capacities, including underwriting, account management, and program development.

"We are thrilled to welcome Vonnie to the PartnerOne team," said Amanda Duncan, President of PartnerOne Environmental. "Her knowledge and experience will be a valuable asset as we continue to expand our presence and product offerings in the environmental marketplace."

PartnerOne Environmental® is a fully integrated source for environmental insurance products. It provides coverage for a variety of small- to middle-market contractors, consultants, and property owners and managers. All products are quoted, bound, and issued in-house, enabling PartnerOne Environmental to provide fast turnaround times and excellent service. Coverages are offered by carriers rated "A+" or better. www.p1enviro.com

Additional information on PartnerOne Environmental and its products & services can be found at www.p1enviro.com, by emailing p1info@p1enviro.com, or by calling 1-800-596-2156.

DVIC looking to hire disabled veterans in Chicago

CHICAGO (May 6, 2014) - Disabled Veterans Insurance Careers, dedicated to helping disabled U.S. veterans by providing new opportunities for training and employment in the insurance industry, is looking to hire and provide meaningful professional career opportunities for disabled veterans in Chicago.

"We are now in the process of identifying qualified disabled veterans for a paid on-the-job training program that will develop long-term sales and customer service skills," said President/CEO Gary Bryant.

"We are pleased to announce that DVIC's training program is now in place," said Gary V. Trippe, co-founder and interim chair. "Our training program is free and we will provide professional career opportunities after the training is complete."

"This training includes licensing and certification necessary for long-term employment in the insurance industry," noted Trippe. "These are meaningful positions in sales and customer service."

The course curriculum was developed by The National Alliance for Insurance Education and Research in Austin, Texas, and Fort Myers-based sales trainer and consultant Lee Knapp.

"Our training and sales positions provide salary-based employment working with existing customers. DVIC is not a cold calling commission only based organization," said Bryant. "We are hoping to have disabled veterans in our training program in the very near future."

Interested disabled veterans can apply by submitting a current resume to jobs@dvic.us.

DVIC's operating board consists of retired U.S. Army Maj. Gen. James L. Dozier; Roger C. Mercado Jr., Community Cooperative Ministries Inc.; James R. Pender CPCU, CLU, ChFC, ARM, Oswald Trippe and Company, co-founder; Gary V. Trippe CIC, Oswald Trippe and Company, co-founder and interim chair; retired insurance agency executive Gay Trippe; and John M. Pollock, CIC, BB&T Insurance Services.

Disabled Veterans Insurance Careers is a nonprofit organization with the mission to educate, train and create meaningful employment opportunities within the insurance industry for disabled veterans. For additional information, call 239-433-8518 or visit www.DVIC.us.

Philadelphia Insurance Adds Environmental Underwriting Vice President

Jon Peeples joins Environmental staff at Tokio Marine Specialty, a division of PHLY.

Bala Cynwyd, PA, April 24, 2014 – Philadelphia Insurance Companies (PHLY) announces the hiring of Jon W. Peeples as Vice President of Environmental Underwriting, in its Tokio Marine Specialty Environmental division.

Mr. Peeples will be responsible for the Premises Environmental Coverage (PEC) product which covers pollution legal liability for several industries including, but not limited to, manufacturing, hotels, warehousing, habitation and commercial real estate, medical facilities, brownfields, and waste industry.

“Jon’s talents and extensive environmental underwriting experience adds greater depth and diversity to our growing Environmental division,” shared Susan Doering, vice president and director of Tokio Marine Specialty Environmental. “Jon’s expertise in underwriting environmental insurance products for manufacturing, real estate, construction, public entities, higher education, and redevelopment strengthens our offerings.”

Mr. Peeples brings 25 years of industry experience to Tokio Marine Specialty, after holding consulting, brokerage, and underwriting positions in environmental insurance. He previously served in various leadership roles at ACE USA, Inc., Marsh USA, Inc., and United Capital Insurance.

About Philadelphia Insurance
Philadelphia Insurance Companies designs, markets, and underwrites commercial property/casualty and professional liability insurance products incorporating value added coverages and services for select industries. In operation since 1962, the Company, whose commercial lines insurance subsidiaries are rated “A++” (Superior) by A.M. Best Company and “A+” for counterparty credit and financial strength by Standard & Poor’s, is nationally recognized as a member of Ward's Top 50, National Underwriter’s Top 100, and one of the Top 150 Workplaces in America. Policies are underwritten by Philadelphia Indemnity Insurance Company. The organization has 49 offices strategically located across the United States to provide superior service. For more information, please visit www.PHLY.com.

Cossio Insurance Agency Acquires Amusement Insurance Resource's Inflatable & Party Rental Customers

Effective April 1 2014, Cossio Insurance Agency has inked a deal to provide inflatable and mechanical bull insurance to Insure AIR (Amusement Insurance Resources) customers. This change will also affect brokers that were working with Amusement Insurance Resources for their inflatables, party rental or mechanical bull accounts. Both companies believe that this agreement will provide the best coverage's and service to existing customers while AIR focuses its business into other areas of the Amusement Industry. Brokers that would like to work with Cossio Insurance Agency will need to visit their website at www.cossioinsurance.com/insurance/brokered-business.html to fill out a sign up form. Current customers of AIR will continue to receive their same coverage and will renew with Cossio Insurance when their policies come up for renewal.

About the Cossio Insurance Agency
Cossio Insurance Agency (also known as the CIA) has been the leader in providing insurance for the amusement industry for the last 12 years and continues to provide the top insurance programs, rates, and services to the amusement industry. Located in South Carolina, the company is able to provide coverage in all 50 states and specializes in insuring hard to place risks. They also offer many perks to their customers such as a mobile app, free digital waiver system, renewal reminders & an interactive safety checklist for inflatables that is now in the works.

On top of Indoor Inflatables & Party Rentals; other programs provided by Cossio Insurance Agency include Family Entertainment Centers, Laser Tag, Product Liability, Paintball & Special Event Insurance to name a few. To learn more visit their website at www.cossioinsurance.com , call 864-688-0121 or email info@cossioinsurance.com.

The Society of CIC recognizes John Pollock for twenty years of leadership

FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 15, 2014) - John Pollock, CIC, BB&T Insurance Services' Florida regional insurance president, was recently honored for his ongoing pledge to education, commitment to excellence and dedication to the insurance profession. The Society of Certified Insurance Counselors presented Pollock with a formally inscribed certificate for his continued participation in the CIC Program.

Earning his CIC designation and maintaining all update requirements for twenty years places Pollock in the top one percent of all insurance professionals in the country. "The high standard maintained by Pollock not only benefits BB&T Insurance Services, but the insurance profession as a whole," said Dr. William T. Hold, CIC, CPCU, CLU, president of the Society of CIC.

Pollock oversees 300 employees at five BB&T Insurance Services agencies throughout the state, including BB&T - J. Rolfe Davis Insurance of metro Orlando; BB&T-Iler Wall & Shonter of St. Petersburg; BB&T-Wyman, Green & Blalock of Bradenton; BB&T-Landrum Yaeger of Tallahassee; as well as BB&T-Oswald Trippe and Company with offices in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Miami, Naples, Holmes Beach, Weston and Ocala.

Raised in Fort Myers, Pollock attended Eckerd College where he earned a bachelor's degree in business administration. After several summer internships at OTC, he joined the agency as a commercial lines processor in 1990. In 1993, he became one of the youngest agents in the U.S. to earn the Certified Insurance Counselor designation. Pollock rose to the position of president of OTC in 2002. He has studied at the Wharton School in Philadelphia and the Disney Institute, and participates regularly in professional development and continuing education programs through The Council of Insurance Agents and Brokers, Florida Association of Insurance Agents and others.

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

The Society of CIC is an organization nationally recognized as a leading continuing education program of insurance professionals. A not-for-profit organization, the Society of CIC is the cornerstone program for The National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research, headquartered in Austin, Texas. For more information, visit www.thenationalalliance.com.

$50,000 from the George M. and Pamela S. Humphrey Foundation George M. and Pamela S. Humphrey Foundation donates to veterans' organization

FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 31, 2014) - Disabled Veterans Insurance Careers, dedicated to helping disabled U.S. veterans by providing new opportunities for training and employment in the insurance industry, has received a $50,000 donation from the George M. and Pamela S. Humphrey Foundation. The gift will be used for support and training.

George M. Humphrey II, of Cleveland, Ohio, is the first honoree of DVIC's newly established No Man or Woman Left Behind Society. The society will help disabled veterans establish and sustain a solid career in the insurance field. Humphrey, who died in 2012, was selected for his lifelong commitment to the ideals of the U.S. Marine Corps. He served from 1967 to 1970, obtaining the rank of captain.

"George was a great American, a civic and business leader, a kind and loving husband and father, and a respected personal friend of mine," said James R. Pender, CPCU, CLU, ChFC, ARM, DVIC co-founder and chairman. "When we put Marine Corps values into words, we think of duty, integrity, discipline and love of country; old-fashioned values. George lived his life according to those values."

Humphrey was born in 1942 into a prominent Cleveland family. The family business, Hanna Mining, had its origins in iron ore and steel and was led by his grandfather George M. Humphrey, later Secretary of Treasury under President Dwight Eisenhower and then by his father Gilbert who served in the Navy during World War II. Humphrey attended The Hotchkiss School in Connecticut and Yale University where he was captain of the freshman and varsity football teams. He graduated in 1964, received a Juris Doctor from the University of Michigan Law School in 1967 and then joined the Marines. His service to his country was always a source of great pride. In his business life, he worked in the family company until 1984 and then headed a number of Cleveland area businesses. His civic and philanthropic leadership in the Cleveland community was extraordinary. He led many successful fundraising efforts for university hospitals, United Way and a variety of other area organizations.

The donation will assist DVIC with program capabilities, including the development of state-of-the-art training techniques that will prepare disabled veterans with skills for sales support and cross-selling personal insurance products for careers in the insurance industry.

"In battle, members of the U.S. armed forces make a commitment to each other that they will not leave a fallen comrade behind to fall into the hands of the enemy," added Pender. "DVIC is committed to make sure that no hero or heroine is left behind when it comes to having the opportunity for a meaningful career."

DVIC's strategic board includes James R. Pender, CPCU, CLU, ChFC, ARM, Oswald Trippe and Company, co-founder; Gary V. Trippe, CIC, Oswald Trippe and Company, co-founder; Thomas E. Callanan, retired president/CEO of Advantage Workers Compensation Insurance Company; retired U.S. Army Col. Thomas A. Dials, chairman emeritus of the Armed Forces Insurance Corporation; Lee Knapp, Knapp Consultants, founding member; Brady Polansky, Polansky Enterprises, founding member; Jon Bidwell, Chubb Insurance Group, founding member; Walter J. Gdowski, The Rough Notes Company; James R. Hackbarth, Assurex Global; Robert M. Menke, Bankers Insurance Group; George (Shad) A. Steadman III, Rutherfoord, A Marsh & McLennan Agency; retired U.S. Air Force Capt. Gerald J. Sullivan, The Sullivan Group; John Wepler, Marsh Berry; Jeff Grady, Florida Association of Insurance Agents; David M. Howard, AmRisc, LP; Adam DeGraide, Astonish; and Beverly Messer, The National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research.

The organization's operating board consists of retired U.S. Army Maj. Gen. James L. Dozier; Roger C. Mercado Jr., Community Cooperative Ministries Inc.; James R. Pender CPCU, CLU, ChFC, ARM, Oswald Trippe and Company, co-founder; Gary V. Trippe CIC, Oswald Trippe and Company, co-founder; Kathy Pender, Kathy Pender M.A., L.P.C.C.; retired insurance agency executive Gay Trippe; and John M. Pollock, CIC, BB&T Insurance Services.

DVIC's regional directors include Bill Knepper, The Knepper Company Inc.; Kevin McPoyle, KMRD Partners Inc.; Josh Morgan, MarshBerry; Paul T. Murphy, Paul Murphy Insurance Agency; Walter Page, Semans Insurance Group; Chris Paradiso, Paradiso Insurance; Nick San Filippo, American Insurance Services Agency; M. Christopher Scoggins, Cornerstone Insurance Group; Philip L. Tuccy, AAI, AIM, Insurance Group Consulting LLC; and Steven J. White, retired insurance agency executive.

Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Gary L. Bryant is president and CEO.

Disabled Veterans Insurance Careers is a nonprofit organization with the mission to educate, train and generate meaningful employment opportunities for physically disabled veterans who will excel at proactively cross-selling personal lines insurance products on behalf of leading independent insurance agencies. For additional information, call 239-433-8523 or visit www.DVIC.us.

TMPAA Releases Safe Password Video

Wilmington, DE (March 21, 2014)– The Target Markets Program Administration (TMPAA) released a “Safe Password Video” designed to assist its members in preventing cyber breaches. The video highlights one of the risk management tools available in the newly developed TM Cyber Liability Insurance.

“When former Joints Chief of Staff Admiral Mullen addressed the 2013 TMPAA Mid Year Meeting, he spoke about cyber risks that threaten our nation’s critical infrastructure but also indicated that individual US businesses faced these same threats and may not be adequately protected,” stated Ray Scotto, TMPAA Executive Director. “After listening to Admiral Mullen and our members, we made the decision to develop and provide a risk management and coverage solution specifically addressing the cyber exposures faced by program administrators.”

The TMPAA brought together two trusted members of the Association to develop this policy. Edgewater Holdings celebrated its 20th anniversary pioneering many management liability products. They have developed an expertise in Cyber Risk and created the TM Cyber coverage tailored to our members. The Law Firm of Wilson Elser has an extensive Data Security and Cyber Liability Practice. Wilson Elser is providing the risk management services available exclusively to TMPAA policy holders.

The new Safe Password Video is an example of the risk management services offered in this plan. The video can be found on the TMPAA website along with policy information and applications, or accessed directly at this link.

TMPAA members and attendees of the Association’s 2014 Mid Year Meeting in Baltimore can register to have their agency receive a Cyber Stress Test that will highlight areas of vulnerability in their operations and gaps in their current coverage.

The Safe Password Video was created by TMPAA member Insure Learn.

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

Program Administrator/MGAs interested in learning more about the TMPAA, TM Cyber or Mid Year Meeting can visit the Association's website at targetmarkets.com or contact Ray Scotto – Executive Director at (877) 347-5700 or ray.scotto@targetmkts.com.

Markel names Troy Williams, Director, Medical Professional Liability

Richmond, VA, March 20, 2014 — Markel Corporation’s Product Line Leadership group announced today that Troy Williams has joined the medical malpractice team as Director, Medical Professional Liability. Troy is based in the Deerfield, Illinois office, and his responsibilities are countrywide.

Troy is an experienced medical malpractice underwriter, having worked at CNA and St. Paul Companies most recently. His areas of expertise include a broad range of medical risks, including physicians, surgeons, clinics, and other facilities. Troy will report to Fran O’Connell, Managing Director of Markel’s Medical Product Line.

“We are positioning ourselves to expand Markel’s Medical Product Line, and we are excited that Troy has decided to join our team. He brings unique industry insights and positive energy to this high-profile position. Underwriting talent has always been a key ingredient of the Markel value proposition, and Troy will add depth and expertise to our team,” commented Fran.

Markel’s Medical Product Line offers coverage for a broad range of medical risks to Allied Medical entities and professionals, including physicians, surgeons, and more.

About Markel Corporation
Markel Corporation is a diverse financial holding company serving a variety of niche markets. The Company’s principal business markets and underwrites specialty insurance products. In each of the Company’s businesses, it seeks to provide quality products and excellent customer service so that it can be a market leader. The financial goals of the Company are to earn consistent underwriting and operating profits and superior investment returns to build shareholder value. Visit Markel Corporation on the web at markelcorp.com.

A.M. Best Upgrades Prime Insurance Company with an A- Rating

Specialty Excess and Surplus Lines Carrier's Financial Stability Affirmed

(Chicago, Illinois and Salt Lake City, Utah) February 28, 2014-As a result of their strengthened risk-adjusted capitalization and improved operating performance, Prime Insurance Company announced today that A.M. Best Co. has upgraded their financial strength rating from B++ to A- and raised their issuer credit rating to "excellent" with a stable outlook.

The recent upgrade represents a significant jump in Prime's rating. An A- rating from A.M. Best, which is one of the most recognized rating systems in the insurance industry, clearly defines Prime as an outstanding carrier in their field.

"We've worked hard to get the A- rating from A.M. Best and believe that the rating reflects our strong financial position and commitment to success," said Rick J. Lindsey, President, Chairman and CEO of Prime. "The new rating will help us open our doors to brokers looking for hard-to-place risk coverage who were not able to work with us in the past because of their E&O coverage and stipulations within. We're looking forward to many new successful partnerships."

Prime Insurance Company provides customized specialty insurance solutions in the excess and surplus lines marketplace. Known as a resource for many hard-to-place risks and classes, Prime has provided solutions for businesses that include amusement and recreation, garage services, repossession and recovery, bars, taverns, restaurants, nightclubs, health care facilities, special events, equestrian, aviation and professional liability, among others.

Founded in 1899, A.M. Best Company is a full-service credit rating organization serving the insurance industry. The company rating is the industry standard reflecting an insurer's financial strength and ability to meet its ongoing insurance policy and contract obligations. It is based on a comprehensive quantitative and qualitative evaluation of a company's balance sheet strength, operating performance and business profile. For information on the latest rating, go to www.ambest.com.

WILSON JOINS RUSSELL BOND

Philip C. Wilson has joined Russell Bond. He brings over 33 years' experience handling critical insurance coverage's for banks and real estate investors as well as Casualty, Property, Professional and Transportation for large accounts. Operating out of Nashville, TN he will focus on providing solutions for retail brokers located in Tennessee, Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.

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

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

A.M. Best Upgrades Prime Insurance Company with an A- Rating

Specialty Excess and Surplus Lines Carrier's Financial Stability Affirmed

(Chicago, Illinois and Salt Lake City, Utah) February 28, 2014-As a result of their strengthened risk-adjusted capitalization and improved operating performance, Prime Insurance Company announced today that A.M. Best Co. has upgraded their financial strength rating from B++ to A- and raised their issuer credit rating to "excellent" with a stable outlook.

The recent upgrade represents a significant jump in Prime's rating. An A- rating from A.M. Best, which is one of the most recognized rating systems in the insurance industry, clearly defines Prime as an outstanding carrier in their field.

"We've worked hard to get the A- rating from A.M. Best and believe that the rating reflects our strong financial position and commitment to success," said Rick J. Lindsey, President, Chairman and CEO of Prime."The new rating will help us open our doors to brokers looking for hard-to-place risk coverage who were not able to work with us in the past because of their E&O coverage and stipulations within. We're looking forward to many new successful partnerships."

Prime Insurance Company provides customized specialty insurance solutions in the excess and surplus lines marketplace. Known as a resource for many hard-to-place risks and classes, Prime has provided solutions for businesses that include amusement and recreation, garage services, repossession and recovery, bars, taverns, restaurants, nightclubs, health care facilities, special events, equestrian, aviation and professional liability, among others.

Founded in 1899, A.M. Best Company is a full-service credit rating organization serving the insurance industry. The company rating is the industry standard reflecting an insurer's financial strength and ability to meet its ongoing insurance policy and contract obligations. It is based on a comprehensive quantitative and qualitative evaluation of a company's balance sheet strength, operating performance and business profile. For information on the latest rating, go to http://www.ambest.com/.

Beacon Hill Associates & PartnerOne Environmental® Launch New Websites

Beacon Hill Associates, Inc. and its underwriting division, PartnerOne Environmental, are pleased to announce the launch of their new websites, which feature a fresh new look and user-friendly navigation. The sites offer the latest educational resources for retail and wholesale insurance agents, as well as information on products and industry trends. Features include claim scenarios, coverage guides, and many other tools for agents looking for information on environmental insurance coverage.

Beacon Hill Associates' website is www.b-h-a.com and PartnerOne Environmental's website is www.p1enviro.com.

Since 1990, Beacon Hill Associates, Inc. has been a leader in providing environmental liability insurance nationwide. Although the company concentrates primarily on environmental and energy business, it also works with agencies on other technically challenging specialty coverages. The organization has two divisions; the wholesale brokerage department, tasked with pursuing appropriate coverage for agents from several top insurance carriers; and the PartnerOne Environmental® underwriting division, specializing in assessing risks and offering an array of environmental insurance products.

Information about Beacon Hill Associates, Inc. and PartnerOne Environmental can be found at the websites above, by calling (800) 596-2156, or emailing marketing@b-h-a.com.

ReSource Pro Named to IAOP's Global Outsourcing 100® List for the Fifth Time

NEW YORK, NY, Feb. 17, 2014 -ReSource Pro, a leading provider of business process management solutions for the insurance industry, has been named for the fifth time to the International Association of Outsourcing Professionals® (IAOP) Global Outsourcing 100® list for 2014.

"ReSource Pro's continued ranking on this respected international list is further validation of our professionalism and leading-edge efficiency solutions for the insurance industry," said Dan Epstein, ReSource Pro CEO. "We're honored to have our efforts recognized, and we continue to work to improve productivity growth across our clients operations."

The 2014 Global Outsourcing 100 and The World's Best Outsourcing Advisors recognizes the world's best outsourcing service providers and advisors. These rankings are based on applications received and evaluated by an independent judging panel organized by IAOP. The 2013 panel is led by IAOP managing director of thought leadership, IAOP, JagdishDalal, COP and president of JDalal Associates, LLC.

"At a time when there is a growing need to outsource, The Global Outsourcing 100 and The World's Best Outsourcing Advisors lists have become invaluable reference tools to help companies research service providers," said Debi Hamill, IAOP CEO. "The companies named on these lists and sub lists have demonstrated their expertise following a rigorous, independently judged process and represent the top in the industry."

About ReSource Pro
ReSource Pro LLC, a premier provider of business management process solutions, was named one of the top 100 global outsourcing companies by the International Association of Outsourcing Professionals, and has appeared on the Inc. magazine list of fastest growing US companies in the past five years. ReSource Pro is focused on productivity growth for more than 160 of its insurance business clients including retail and wholesale brokers, MGAs, program administrators, carriers, and TPA's. For more information, please visit www.ReSourcePro.com.

About IAOP: The International Association of Outsourcing Professionals® (IAOP®) is the global, standard-setting organization and advocate for the outsourcing profession. With more than 120,000 members and affiliates worldwide, IAOP helps companies increase their outsourcing success rate, improve their outsourcing ROI, and expand the opportunities for outsourcing across their businesses. To learn more, visit www.IAOP.org.

The media contact for IAOP is:
Kate Tulloch-Hammond
IAOP Manager, Media & Communications
+1.845.452.0600, ext. 122
Kate.hammond@IAOP.org

About The Global Outsourcing 100 The International Association of Outsourcing Professionals® (IAOP®) is in its eighth year of compiling its annual ranking of the world's best outsourcing service providers and advisors - The Global Outsourcing 100. As part of The Global Outsourcing 100, IAOP also introduced a new list in 2009, The World's Best Outsourcing Advisors.

The Global Outsourcing 100 and its sub-lists are essential references for companies seeking new and expanded relationships with the best companies in the industry. The lists include companies from around the world that provide the full spectrum of outsourcing services - not just information technology and business process outsourcing, but also facility services, real estate and capital asset management, manufacturing and logistics. They include not only today's leaders, but tomorrow's rising stars.

The World's Best Outsourcing Advisors is geared specifically to companies that are outstanding global outsourcing advisors and consultants. In addition to being part of The Global Outsourcing 100, the new list of advisors ranks the top consultant, legal and related advisory firms globally, and is a valuable reference tool for companies needing expert advice and guidance with their outsourcing projects.

The Global Outsourcing 100 for service providers is composed of both today's known leaders and tomorrow's rising stars. The judging category of Leader or Rising Star is based on size criteria, which is a combination of yearly revenue and employee numbers set by the judging panel. The groups are judged separately. The final ranked list is composed of the top 75 Leaders and top 25 Rising Stars. The evaluation criteria is weighted to ensure that small to mid-size companies have as much of a chance to be selected as a large, recognized name. Consultants and advisors applying to the World's Best Outsourcing Advisors list are judged together as a single list. The application process for both The Global Outsourcing 100 and the World's Best Outsourcing Advisors mirrors the customers' request for proposal (RFP) process in many ways. The application is composed of three required parts: Company Information, Company Profile and Evaluation Criteria. The first asks for basic contact and company information. The second allows companies to select their top services provided, industries served and regions where they provide services. These answers are used to qualify them for sub lists. The third part includes numerous questions broken into four sections - Size and Growth, Customer Satisfaction, Depth of Competence and Management Capabilities.

Elliott selected to Safeco Insurance Southeast Region Agent Advisory Council

FORT MYERS, Fla. (Jan. 31, 2014) - Jerry Elliott, BB&T-Oswald Trippe and Company, will help to improve the experience of Safeco Insurance customers after being selected as a participant on the company's Southeast Region Agent Advisory Council. The advisory council program, which consists of eight regional panels along with a national council, gathers feedback from agents across the country to enhance both service and business results for Safeco and independent agencies.

"The Safeco Agent Advisory Council is more than just another industry panel," said Elliott, who has been with BB&T-Oswald Trippe and Company since 2006. "It's a chance to help Safeco and my fellow agents continually improve our service. I'm honored to take part."

Agent Advisory Council participants serve three-year terms, with about one-third of the membership rotating annually. Officer elections are held in March.

"Safeco Agent Advisory Councils provide valuable input as we strive for stronger relationships with our agents and customers across the country," said Matthew Nickerson, president of Safeco Insurance. "We are grateful for agents who are willing to add their voice and the feedback of other agents to improve our shared business opportunities and better serve our customers."

Safeco has been using advisory councils for more than 10 years to collaborate with agents on solutions for improving service, products and performance. Approximately 140 agents sit on eight regional councils, all managed by agents. The national council is comprised of officers from the regional councils.

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

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

In business since 1923 and based in Boston, Mass., Safeco Insurance sells personal automobile, homeowners and specialty products through a network of more than 10,000 independent insurance agencies throughout the United States. Safeco is a Liberty Mutual Insurance company.

Boston-based Liberty Mutual Insurance is a diversified global insurer and the third largest property and casualty insurer in the U.S. based on 2012 direct premiums written as reported by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Liberty Mutual Insurance also ranks 81st on the Fortune 100 list of largest U.S. corporations, based on 2012 revenue.

For more information about Safeco Insurance, go to www.Safeco.com.

QQSolutions Appoints New Executives to its Management Team to Help Drive Company's Continued Dynamic Growth

QQSolutions, the leading provider of cloud-based agency management systems for independent insurance agencies nationwide, has named three new executives to its management team. Jim Garrett was named asSenior Director of Software Development, Dan Lanphere as Senior Director of Sales, and Edward Patience as Director of Marketing.

Deerfield Beach, FL (PRWEB) February4, 2014 - QQSolutions, the leading provider of cloud-based agency management systems for independent insurance agenciesnationwide,has named three new executives to its management team. Jim Garrett was named asSenior Director of Software Development, Dan Lanphere as Senior Director of National Sales, and Edward Patience as Director of Marketing.

Reporting to Chief Operating Officer, Michael Stebel,the three executives will be responsible for executing QQSolutions' product development,sales, andmarketing strategiesto help drive the company's continued dynamic growth.

Mark Malis, Chief Executive Officer of QQSolutions stated, "Jim, Dan, and Edwardeach bring to QQSolutions extensive and successful experience in tech product leadership. Jim will focus on the continued development of QQCatalyst® and QQWebRater, while Dan and Edward will build and executeeffectivesales and marketing programs to help make independent insurance agencies aware of our superior products and services."

Bios

Jim Garrett, Senior Director of Software Development,is responsible for software development across all of QQSolutions' products. Garrett has over eighteen years of experience leading teams and developing commercial software. Prior to joining QQSolutions, he spearheaded the development of award-winning software now used by over 80,000 customers in the medical, dental, and veterinary industries.He has served as a voting member on committees for the standardization of medical diagnostic imaging and on the curriculum advisory board for two college Computer Science departments. Garrett holds multiple certifications as a developer, systems architect and technical trainer.

Daniel Lanphere, Senior Director of National Sales, leads the QQSolutions sales team and brings to the company over sixteen years of sales leadership experience in technology, software, data, and service solutions. He has held sales and sales management positions at NCR Corporation, WorkFlow One, and LexisNexis. Lanphere has a passion for building customer-focused teams that partner with their clients. He has a diverse background that includes inside and outside sales, sales management, operations management and business resource management within several different industries. Lanphere earned his BA from the University of Dayton, where his focus was Communications and Management.

Edward Patience, Director of Marketing,is responsible for all aspects of QQSolutions' corporate and product marketing communications, as well as its partner programs. Patience brings more than twenty years of technology marketing experience in commercial software solutions. He has a broad background in product marketing, brand development, social media and technology sales, working with established and start-up technology companies in e-commerce, healthcare, mobile technologies and supply chain management. Patience earned his Bachelors of Business Administration degree, with a focus in Information Technology, from Wilfred Laurier University, in Waterloo, Ontario. For more information, visit the company's website at QQSolutions.com, or call QQSolutions at 1.800.940.6600.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Markel honors child care centers with distinguished Safety 1st award

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

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

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

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

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

About Markel Corporation
Markel Corporation is a diverse financial holding company serving a variety of niche markets. The Company's principal business markets and underwrites specialty insurance products. In each of the Company's businesses, it seeks to provide quality products and excellent customer service so that it can be a market leader. The financial goals of the Company are to earn consistent underwriting and operating profits and superior investment returns to build shareholder value. Visit Markel Corporation on the web at www.markelcorp.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Markel Corporation
Markel Corporation is a diverse financial holding company serving a variety of niche markets. The Company's principal business markets and underwrites specialty insurance products. In each of the Company's businesses, it seeks to provide quality products and excellent customer service so that it can be a market leader. The financial goals of the Company are to earn consistent underwriting and operating profits and superior investment returns to build shareholder value. Visit Markel Corporation on the web at www.markelcorp.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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

QQ Solutions strives to delight its customers by exceeding their expectations in product quality, customer service, training & support, and by meeting their evolving needs through a program of continuous product development and improvement incorporating the best available technologies.

The company's headquarters is located in Deerfield Beach, Florida, where the company employs 65 people in software development, product management, product support, professional services, marketing, sales, IT, finance, and administration.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Philadelphia Insurance Hires Vice President to Oversee IT Project Management

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

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

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

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

About Philadelphia Insurance
Philadelphia Insurance Companies designs, markets, and underwrites commercial property/casualty and professional liability insurance products incorporating value added coverages and services for select industries. In operation since 1962, the Company, whose commercial lines insurance subsidiaries are rated “A++” (Superior) by A.M. Best Company and “A+” for counterparty credit and financial strength by Standard & Poor’s, is nationally recognized as a member of Ward's Top 50, National Underwriter’s Top 100, and one of the Top 150 Workplaces in America. The organization has 48 offices strategically located across the United States to provide superior service. For more information, please visit www.PHLY.com.

SIAA Welcomes Steve Tombarelli National Director of Business Insurance Advantage

Tombarelli to spearhead new commercial division at SIAA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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