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22018-19 1st Edition houston insurance news

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DEPARTMENTS

04 BuyingPower

06 New Members

09 In Memorium

10 YIP Social

34 HIP - 2018 FIWT Convention

35 2018 HIP Pink Luncheon

37 Committee Spotlight: Social Media

37 CPCU

43 Affiliate Member Spotlight

44 Committee Spotlights: Charitable & HID

45 Have You Heard

47 Legislative Update

50 E&O Q&A

51 It’s the Law

52 Events & Education

52 IIAH Benefits

54 Who Has the Last Word

COMMENTARY

08 President’s Message

SPECIAL ITEMS

53 Business Card Ads

54 IIAH Career Center

2018-2019 / 1st Edition

12

17

29

39

2018 IIAHInstallation

Dinner

IIAH Annual Charity Bowl

Firefighter ofthe Year Award

Luncheon

IIAH 2nd Annual Sporting Clays

Invitational


STAFF

Amy Weimer Chairman

Vice Chairman

Ayla Benavides Staff Liaison

Debbie McRae Advertising Coordinator

ChrisGoff OfficerLiaison

Chuck Vieau Board Liaison

Walter Tomlinson Contributor

Scott Mackey Contributor/Photographer

Delia G. Chauffe Photographer

Ayla Benavides Photographer

Contributing Writers

Tom Braniff Legislative Amy Weimer Have You Heard Mary LaPorte E&O Wes Kurtz President’s Message Susan Schmidt Houston Insurance Professionals (HIP) Wayne Pickering It’s The Law

Advertising

Debbie McRae 713-975-0141 [email protected]

Membership Renee Stager [email protected]

Comments Editorial

Amy Weimer [email protected]

The Magazine Committee, Officers,Directors,Executive Director and the staff of IIAH reserve the right to review all information submitted for publication and to refuse such publication at their sole discretion.

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Charitable Special Projects/Fire Prevention Chairman: Sarah Beck

Vice Chair: Mary Fran Swank

Education, I.T., CE & Member Luncheon

Chairman: Katrina Masek

Vice Chair: Michelle Dennis

Houston Insurance Day Chairman: Courtney Wier

Vice Chair: Carmen Swift

LegislativeChairman: Mark Thurmond

Vice Chair: Kyle Dean

IMPACT Chairman: Mickie Comiskey

Vice Chair: Lea Brimberry

MembershipChairman: Amy Leicht

Vice Chair: Jim Burnham

RecreationChairman: Robbie Darnell

Vice Chair: Stuart Ray

Young Insurance Professionals Chairman: Gwen Singleton

Vice Chair: Grant Pierce

PR/Media Matters Chairman: Scott West

Social Media Chairman: Daphne B. Clark

Vice Chair: Liz Brock

2018-2019COMMITTEES

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NEW MEMBERS

Platinum Partners For Excellence 2018-2019

CRC|SCULighthouse Property

Insurance CorporationMyron Steves

AFS/IBEX A division of MetaBankBlackmon Mooring of Houston

ChubbCNA Insurance Companies

Gold Patron Sponsors 2018-2019

Wes Kurtz, CIC President

Stuart Ray President-Elect

Chris Goff, CIC, LUTCF Vice President

Jim Drew, ARM, CIC, CRM Treasurer

Carole Shelton Secretary

Scott Margraves, CIC Immediate Past President

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Sarah Beck

Robbie Darnell

Brett Herrington, CIC

Wes Weatherred

Elizabeth Kirby

Ryan Moorehead

Jason Nybakken

Jeff Presley

Chuck M. Vieau

IIAT EX-OFFICIO MEMBER OF THE IIAH BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jeff Brady, CIC, CRM

IIAH STAFF Carole Shelton Executive Director

Renee Stager Director of Education/ Membership Ayla Benavides Events/Communications

7700 San Felipe

Suite 310

Houston, Texas

77063

832-769-4666

Fax: 832-324-3503

www.iiah.org

Delta General AgencyHouston International

Insurance GroupWRIGHT Flood

RPS HoustonTexas Mutual Insurance Company

UFG InsuranceWSG Specialty Underwriters

New Affiliate Members

Central Mutual Insurance CompaniesLea Brimberry

7301 North State Highway 161, Suite 320Irving, TX 75039

512-921-1260

Starr CompaniesBrian Bass

8401 North Central Expressway, 5th FloorDallas, TX 75225

514-647-2455

Titanium Elite Sponsors 2018-2019

Imperial PFS Burns & Wilcox, Ltd.

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Wes KurtzPresident 2018-2019

[email protected]

IIAH is here to create value for independent insurance agents — if we’re not delivering resources that enrich and support you professionally, we’re not doing our job. However, like any organization, IIAH has human bandwidth limitations. Our committee and board volunteers have work obligations and families to divide their time among, so hours spent on IIAH projects are precious — especially since planning for many of our annual events can take over a year to complete. Since we’re short on quantity of hours we can devote to IIAH efforts, we have to maximize the quality of those hours. That’s where you can help. We rely on our members to give us feedback so we can improve our performance and focus on the projects you value most. What are we doing well, and what can we do better? Let us know! Please feel free to reach out to me directly with any comments or suggestions, and don’t forget to stop by the IIAH website and check out upcoming events! Best, Wes

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Burns & Wilcox, Ltd.,CRC|SCU,

Imperial PFS,Lighthouse Property,

Insurance Corporation,Myron Steves,RPS Houston,

Texas Mutual Insurance Company,UFG Insurance,

WSG Specialty Underwriters

William Miller “Bill” Jones died unexpectedly on Sunday, the 9th of September 2018, while exercising on his beloved beach in Galveston, Texas. His wife and two sons were by his side when he left this earth and went to be with our Lord.

Bill was born on the 21st of January 1942, in Prospect Heights, Illinois, to Lavilla and Ira Jones. When Bill was seven years old they moved to Bellaire where he attended Grady Elementary, Pershing Junior High and graduated from Bellaire High School in 1960, where he played baseball and football. He attended Texas Tech University on a scholarship as an athletic trainer for the basketball team and was also a member of Pi Kappa Alpha and the Double T Letterman’s Association.

Bill married Patricia Ann Holmes in December of 1963 and was blessed to have spent almost 55 years by one another’s side.

Bill was very active with his children’s youth baseball and football as a coach. He not only was there for his children, but also there to mentor other children that were lucky enough to be on “Coach” Bill Jones’ team. His grandchildren even called him “Coach.”

Bill began his career with Howse and Jones Insurance and then opened his own insurance firm, W. M. Jones & Company Inc., in 1982.

He was also a dedicated supporter of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo where he served on the Western Art, Risk Management and the World’s Championship Barbecue Committees. He served as the Chairman of the WCBBQ from 1995-1997 and was a Lifetime Director.

Bill is survived by his wife Pat: sons, Jay Patrick Jones and his wife Jennifer, and Jeffrey Michael Jones and his wife Katherine; his grandchildren, “The Magnificent Seven,” Jaymie, Jordan, Kaitlyn, Jacob, Mackenzie, Declan and Jessica; and his park walking companions, Tito and Scooter.

In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions in Bill’s name be directed to the Westview School for Autism, 1900 Kersten Dr., Houston, TX, 77043; or to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Educational Fund, attn: Jamie Voskamp, P.O. Box 20070, Houston, Texas 77225.

Published in Houston Chronicle from Sept. 10 to Sept. 11, 2018

1942-2018

William Miller “Bill” Jones

http://www.mhi-tx.com


YIP FLASH at mcintyre’s

YIP Industry Social October 4, 2018

The YIPs Industry Social was a HUGE success despite having to move the venue to Canyon Creek. The YIPs collected quite a few canned goods and other items for the Buckner Family Hope Center. Contact Gwen Singleton at [email protected] or Grant Pierce at [email protected] if you are interested in joining the IIAH YIP Committee.

Hope to see you at the next F.L.A.S.H. or Industry Social in February at HID!




January 26th, 2019January 26th, 2019January 26th, 2019

Proceeds to BenefitProceeds to BenefitProceeds to Benefit

Saturday, January 26thSaturday, January 26th

BAYOUBAYOU Sports BarSports Bar

6011 Addicks Satsuma6011 Addicks Satsuma Houston TX 77084Houston TX 77084

(281) 855(281) 855--77717771

The Independent Insurance Agents of HoustonThe Independent Insurance Agents of HoustonThe Independent Insurance Agents of Houston

Cooking Team Entry FeeCooking Team Entry Fee $50.00$50.00

Schedule of EventsSchedule of Events

7:00 am 7:00 am –– Gates open for Gates open for cooking teamscooking teams

8:00 AM 8:00 AM —— Registration OpensRegistration Opens

12:00 PM12:00 PM——Live Music BeginsLive Music Begins

1:15 pm 1:15 pm –– Chili Turn inChili Turn in

3:30 pm 3:30 pm -- AwardsAwards

For more information contact:For more information contact:For more information contact:

SPONSORED BYSPONSORED BYSPONSORED BY

Bama Breeze SoundsBama Breeze Sounds -- SILENT AUCTION SILENT AUCTION --

-- LIQUOR WAGON RAFFLE LIQUOR WAGON RAFFLE --

LIVE MUSIC LIVE MUSIC LIVE MUSIC

B.I.G. Love Cancer CareB.I.G. Love Cancer CareB.I.G. Love Cancer Care

Online regisOnline regisOnline registttrrration and paation and paation and payment: yment: yment:

Philip Swift, [email protected]

(281) 216-0374

Phil [email protected]

(281) 799-1287

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(continued on page 13)

It’s a new day and a new era with a new President of IIAH: Wes Kurtz. The installation dinner was held at the beautiful Hotel ZaZa who out did themselves with a delectable buffet dinner and many delicious food choices.

For the evening’s events we would like to send a VERY SPECIAL thank you to our sponsors for tonight’s festivities:

Our 2018-2019 Titanium Elite Sponsors:Imperial PFS, Burns & Wilcox, Ltd.

Our 2018-2019 Platinum Partners for Excellence:CRC|SCU, Lighthouse Property Insurance Corporation, Myron Steves, RPS Houston, Texas Mutual Insurance Company, UFG Insurance and WSG Specialty Underwriters

Our 2018-2019 Gold Patrons: AFS/IBEX A division of MetaBank, Blackmon Mooring of Houston, Chubb, CNA Insurance, Delta General Agency, Houston International Insurance Group, and WRIGHT Flood.

Quirk and Texas Mutual Insurance Company sponsored our Dessert Buffet, CRC|SCU sponsored our Beer/Wine Reception, HARCO Insurance Services sponsored our chocolate truffle guest’s favors, Imperial PFS sponsored our Dinner Wine Service and All Risks sponsored our floral centerpieces.

Our IIAH Young Insurance Professionals, or YIP’s as we call them, put together a Silent Auction to benefit Camp Hope – Houston. Thank you to all our Silent Auction contributors: All Risks, Brady Chapman Holland & Associates. Daphne Clark, IIAH Past President, Dean & Draper Insurance, Focus Insurance and Financial Services, HARCO Insurance Services, Hotel ZaZa, Hotchkiss Insurance Agency, LLC, McClelland & Hine – Houston, NFIB, Pathfinder LL & D Insurance Group, RPS Houston, and TDECU Insurance Agency.

Sam Askins and Zack Alexander spoke to us about Camp Hope – Houston. They told their personal stories about how they became involved and what Camp Hope did for them. They resounded their commitment to help other people amid what Camp Hope organizes. Their speech touched everyone’s heart.

2018 IIAH Installation Dinner


(continued from page 13)


We honored our Past Presidents in attendance: Tom Braniff, Gerri Grougeau, Scott West, Phil Swift, Josh Hargrave, and Daphne Clark. Many thanks to our 2017-18 board members, Brett Herrington, Jim Drew, Jason Nybakken, Kerry Kee, Sarah Beck, Elizabeth Kirby, Jeff Presley, Chuck Vieau, and Ryan Morehead and Chris Goff served as Treasurer from 2016/17 and 2017/18. All outgoing Directors received a plaque to commemorate their time on the board.

And then the introduction of the 2018-2019 newly elected Board Directors: Robbie Darnell, Dean & Draper Insurance and Wes Weatherred, Hotchkiss Insurance Agency. And elected to their own full terms: Elizabeth Kirby, Select Insurance Markets and Ryan Moorehead, All Risks, Ltd.

President-Elect Wes Kurtz on behalf of the membership thanked Scott Margraves for his leadership as President for 2017-2018 and his time on the Board from 2014 through 2016. Scott fittingly received a Board Director plaque, Past President plaque and his Past President Pin.

Scott West came forward to install the new officers: Wes Kurtz, Stuart Ray, Chris Goff, Jim Drew, and Carole Shelton. Scott congratulated each officer and introduced Wes as the new President.

Every installation dinner, Myron Steves makes a special presentation to the new IIAH President. This year was no different as Fred Steves and Anna Kizer took the stage and presented a special gift to the new President, Wes Kurtz.

The entertainment for the evening was David Born, a Robin Williams impersonator. HE WAS HILARIOUS! And if you are a Robin Williams fan you had heart tingles.

The YIP’s Annual Silent Auction raised $3425 for Camp Hope in Houston. It was a very special night for all.

2018 IIAH Installation Dinner(continued from page 12)


IIAH Charity Bowl XXVI


On Saturday, July 21st the Charitable Projects Committee hosted the 26th annual Charity Bowl at Copperfield Bowl. 29 teams were in attendance for this memorable “Christmas in July” themed event. Records were broken when funds from liquor wagon sales almost exceeded one thousand dollars! Kudos to A. J. Perez, CRC|SCU and Derek Pierce, USG Insurance Services, our Liquor Wagon Raffle ticket sales elves. All in all over $12,000 was raised for the IIAH Charitable Foundation fund.

This year’s trophy awards went to:

High Female Individual Score: Debbie Zientek, HARCO Insurance ServicesHigh Male Individual Score: Charles Lund, SCUHigh Team Score: “Holly Jolly Bowlers”, RPS Houston Best Company Theme Award 1st Place: RPS HoustonBest Company Theme Award, 2nd Place: HARCO Insurance ServicesCompany Spirit Award, 1st Place: Myron StevesCompany Spirit Award, 2nd Place: McClelland & Hine – HoustonHigh Individual Fundraiser, 1st Place: Cheryl Tomlinson, RPS HoustonHigh Individual Fundraiser, 2nd Place: Aaron Asquite, RPS HoustonHigh Team Fundraiser, 1st Place: “Jingle Bell Bowlers”, RPS HoustonHigh Team Fundraiser, 2nd Place: “Gangsta Wrappers”, BXS InsuranceHigh Company Fundraiser, 1st Place: RPS Houston, $4,903High Company Fundraiser, 2nd Place: HARCO Insurance Services, $2,000

And the lucky winner of the Texans Liquor Wagon, Megan Benoit, HARCO Insurance Services!

Special Thanks to our Raffle and Door Prize Contributors….YOU MADE IT HAPPEN!!!

RPS Houston IIAH Tryton Insurance Group Hotchkiss Insurance HARCO Insurance Services Delta General Agency Myron Steves Imperial PFS CRC | SCU McClelland & Hine – Houston Copperfield Bowl FIRST Insurance Funding Corp USG Insurance Services Burns & Wilcox AFS/IBEX A division of MetaBank

29 Team Line-Up

Imperial PFS Burns & Wilcox RPS Houston Myron Steves McClelland & Hine – Houston Hotchkiss Insurance Agency HARCO Insurance Services SCU Craig & Leicht Bowen Miclette & Britt Insurance BXS Insurance HUB International Insurance Services Houston International Ins Group Tryton Insurance Group Thanks to our team players, spectators, contributors, volunteers, Copperfield Bowl and our IIAH Charitable Committee, our 26th Annual “Charity Bowl” was one of the best ever!!!!!



(continued from page 17) IIAH Charity Bowl XXVI



(continued from page 18) IIAH Charity Bowl XXVI


IIAH Charity Bowl XXVI(continued from page 21)



Firefighter of the Year Award LuncheonMaggiano’s Little Italy

We gathered for the annual Firefighter of the Year Award for recognition and announcement of the recipient(s) on July 19, 2018. There are some regular luncheon attendees that say this event is one of their favorites. Me too and it’s tough to pick – where else are you going to get a group of people that love their community and their industry like the IIAH Members do? Well you can definitely look to our city of Houston Firefighters! If you haven’t attended one of our luncheons/events, be sure to go www.IIAH.org and check out the calendar of events.

President Scott Margraves thanked our members and guests including the Platinum Partner for Excellence and Gold Patron sponsors for their continued support. Our Platinum Partners sponsor our refreshments during our Free CE seminars and our Gold Patrons sponsor our Mix & Mingle reception before each luncheon. Also welcome Free CE Seminar instructor from PEO Brokers, Tammie McKenzie.

Several Houston Fire Department (HFD) dignitaries joined us to honor the Firefighter of the Year finalists and recipients. Fire Chief Samuel Pena, Assistant Chief Rodney West, Assistant Chief Michelle Bentley, Assistant Fire Marshall Richard Galvan, Assistant Chief Justin Wells, Assistant Chief Michael Mire, Assistant Chief Alfredo Martinez, Assistant Chief Herbert Griffin, Assistant Chief Michelle McLeod, Public Information Officer, Sheldra Brigham, Assistant to the Chief, Denise

Estrada, and Alicia Breaux, HFD Public Affairs Office, Senior Communications Specialist.

It was a tremendous honor to have a special group as the 2017 award finalists: Firefighter Michael DeLeon and his wife Rhonda, Firefighter Dustin Davis and his guest Ryan McLaughlin, Captain Nathan Lilley and his wife Melody, Firefighter Carlos Gallegos and his son Sebastian, Firefighter Brian Dea and his guest Samantha Choi, Firefighter Sergio Poratta and his wife Mishelle, Engineer Operator Wesley Pleasant and his wife Kellie, Firefighter Fernando Garcia and his wife Destiny, Captain Greg Armstrong and his mother Madeline, Captain Todd Kahney and his wife Natalie, Engineer Operator Beau Moreno and his guest Robyn Grimsley, Captain Kenneth Wright who unfortunately could not attend as he was out of town conducting training seminars however, his wife Kristen and daughter Rachel were able to be present. Firefighter Kevin Mathison and his wife Lindsey, Engineer Operator Bill Hagemen also was not able to attend due to family emergency and lastly but not least, Engineer Operator Brandon Hernandez who was not able to attend because his family just brought home their newborn baby boy!

IIAH Executive Director, Carole Shelton presented and described each of the occurrences for which these heroic people were being recognized.


http://www.IIAH.org




This year’s finalists show the incredible range of service that helps make our Fire Department among the best in the country.

Finalist #1 Our Group Representing Station 49 Firefighter Michael DeLeon, Firefighter Dustin Davis, Captain Nathan Lilley, Firefighter Carlos GallegosFirefighter Brandon Dea, Engineer Operator Brandon Hernandez (not able to attend)

During Hurricane Harvey on August 30, 2017, Station 49 was assigned to Westside Command near I-10 and Gessner. They were well into their shift and had already completed about 18 calls without stopping for a meal. They were monitoring the radio coordinating rescues with District 5 when a house fire dropped near the extreme flooding near Addick’s Reservoir. They heard the call and said, “Let’s Roll”!

Rescue boats and high water prevented them from taking the truck into the subdivision to fight the fire. The crew procured the use of the of a citizen’s military 5 ton vehicle. They knew that with limited resources and victims being rescued in that area that life safety for citizens would be a large concern from people still being trapped in their homes with rising flood waters.

Upon entrance 3 blocks over from the burning house the military vehicle could not go any further due to high water. Without hesitation, the crew loaded up extra hoses, tools and equipment and entered the chest deep flood waters, without protective gear, and carried their equipment with them. In order to get to the burning home quickly, they made their way through back yards and houses, checking for citizens as they went.

Upon arrival at the scene, the crew already present had a hydrant connection made underwater, but it did not have enough pressure to fight the fire. They grabbed garden hoses to start knocking down the fire, but soon realized those efforts would not keep the fire from burning and spreading to adjacent homes. After a brisk coordinated discussion, they decided to use the jet prop on one of the rescue boats to fight the fire. Working together, they were able to maneuver the jet prop to face the burning house and accelerate the prop to provide a master stream of water. They successfully put out the fire and prevented the fire from spreading, potentially throughout the neighborhood. Using quick thinking, this group went above and beyond to mitigate this fire.

Side Note: The family from the burning home was rescued along with their kitty cats!

Finalist #2 Engine 16:Firefighter Sergio Porrata

On the evening of July 13, 2017, HFD received what is known as a double call, an ambulance was dispatched, then immediately after a fire truck was dispatched to the same location. The paramedics had been advised a victim was suffering from seizures. The victim was found to be wearing shorts and a carrying a backpack. As the victim began to walk away from the ambulance, one paramedic began to follow him. Upon Engine 16’s arrival, they began to follow the paramedic. Suddenly the paramedic starts running back towards the firefighters and ambulance, with the victim chasing the paramedic with a knife.

Making it back to the engine and ambulance, and unable to determine their safety, a firefighter assist was immediately requested; this is a call to

HPD for assistance. As all were making their way back to the ambulance evading the man with the knife, two citizens were crossing the street approaching the incident. At this time the man with the knife turned his attention toward the female citizen and stated he was going to kill her if she moved. The citizens were slowly backing away from the man, and they began to cross the street behind the engine.

As soon as the victim began walking towards the rear of the engine, Firefighter Porrata acted quickly and grabbed an axe from the engine, and approached the rear of the engine. As soon as the victim cleared the rear of the engine Firefighter Porrata struck the man with the handle side of the axe, knocking the knife out of his hand and dropping him to the ground, saving the citizen’s lives. The rest of the crew came over to assist, pinning the man to the ground until HPD arrived on the scene.

Finalist #3 Ambulance 28 Crew:Engineer Operator Wesley Pleasant, Firefighter Fernando Garcia

On July 28, 2017, Ambulance 28 responded to a car accident that occurred on the Newcastle off ramp of the outbound side of the Southwest Freeway. The exit ramp is elevated 16 feet over the surface streets. During the investigation of the minor accident, the actions of these two members of HFD were instrumental in saving the lives of two HPD officers.

HPD Officer Carter and Officer Herrera, Unit 96Z25, were investigating a one car accident on the Newcastle exit ramp. Engine 28 and Ambulance 28 also responded to the scene. Engine 28 was placed in a protective manner behind the scene to block the exit ramp so the investigation and medical evaluations of the persons in the accident could occur in a safe manner. HPD Officer Carter and Herrera’s vehicle was on the exit ramp between Engine 28 and the vehicle involved in the accident. The man involved in the accident needed medical evaluation and was sitting in the right rear of the patrol car waiting for HFD personnel. Ambulance 28 arrived and Firefighter Garcia went to the right side of the patrol vehicle to evaluate the citizen while Engineer Operator Pleasant stayed near the ambulance. HPD Officers Carter and Herrera were standing in between the patrol vehicle and the cement divider of the exit ramp.

Just before they began their evaluation, a black Ford Focus drove around Engine 28 at a high rate of speed. EO Pleasant observed the vehicle and yelled “watch out” as the vehicle approached the patrol car, HFD and HPD personnel and the citizen in its path. The vehicle swerved and drove between the patrol car and cement divider striking HPD Officer Carter and pushing him over the cement barrier, causing him to fall 16 feet to the grassy median below, landing on his back. Officer Carter sustained injury to his ankle and compression fractures of his spine.

HPD Officer Herrera jumped over the barrier, out of the way of the moving vehicle, but was able to hang on to the barrier. Fearing his arms would be struck and not able to hold on any longer, he was forced to let go. Being further down the ramp, Officer Herrera fell about 8 feet and sustained minor injuries.

Firefighter Garcia was able to jump onto the roof of the patrol car to avoid being hit by the vehicle, while the vehicle tore off the HPD patrol car open door. Although he had just narrowly missed being struck by the vehicle, he immediately started checking on everyone on the scene and prepared to render aid to all parties involved, including the intoxicated

Firefighter of the Year Award Luncheon


woman driving the vehicle that almost killed him. Firefighter Garcia first checked over the ledge where he saw Officer Herrera start running back to the scene. Firefighter Garcia then proceeded to go to the intoxicated driver of the vehicle. Once he knew she was not injured, he learned the other officer that went over the wall was still on the ground after dropping 16 feet. Firefighter Garcia and EO Pleasant rushed down to his aid. They quickly and efficiently stabilized Officer Carter. It was clear that the quick thinking, commitment to the mission and execution of their duties prevented Officer Carter from sustaining more serious injuries. As a result of their quick actions, all on the scene escaped being hit by the moving vehicle. Officer Carter is expected to make a full recovery.

Finalist #4 Texas Task Force 1:Captain Greg Armstrong, Captain Todd Kahney, Engineer Operator Beau Moreno. Engineer Operator Bill Hageman, Firefighter Kevin Mathison, Firefighter Kenneth Wright (not able to attend)

I’d first like to give you details about the scope of operation for Texas Task Force 1. TX TF1 functions as one of the 28 federal teams under the FEMA Urban Search and Rescue System and as a statewide urban search and rescue team under direction of the Texas Division of Emergency Management. TX-TF1 also coordinates the state’s swift water rescue program and the Helicopter Search and Rescue Team which works in conjunction with Texas Military Forces. Although many of the members are firefighters with volunteer and career departments, TX-TF1 is comprised of many individuals from various professional backgrounds such as fire, police, IT support, and petroleum engineers. TX-TF teams do not pull personnel from just a single department or organization, but rather from over 60 agencies and companies throughout Texas. The Team consists of a 70-person team capable of 24-hour operations. They are volunteers and go through a rigorous application process. Team member’s expertise fall within medical, rescue, communications, search, logistics, hazmat and planning areas. With this structure they are designed to be totally self-sufficient on their missions.

With only 24 hours rest after responding to calls during Hurricane Harvey and dealing with damage to their own homes, on September 8th, Capt. Armstrong, EO Moreno and FF Wright were deployed to Puerto Rico in response to Hurricane Irma with the Federal Incident Support Team. Within 2 hours, they were arriving at the Texas Task Force One’s USAR headquarters in College Station, and would soon be in route to the Joint Air Force base in Fort Worth, to hand load a C-17 Globemaster with command vehicles, 18-wheelers and containers loaded with 76,000 lbs. of supplies need to support the mission in Puerto Rico. Hunkered down in a high-rise hotel, they weathered Hurricane Irma, a CAT5 storm with sustained winds of 185 mph, tying three other hurricanes as the most powerful Atlantic storm.

Once the storm passed, these members assisted by helping organize the resources and supplies on hand, and start the daunting process of search and rescue for the island. As the island was shifting from rescue to recovery, Hurricane Maria popped up on the radar, and hit the north side of the island on September 20th as a CAT4 storm with winds up to 155 mph. They, along with other task forces from across the nation endured strong winds, flooding, and substantial damage to the Base of Operations. Needing more resources, a Texas Task Force Type 4 team was sent, which included our members



Capt. Kahney, EO Hageman and FF Mathison. These deployments would turn out to be the largest outside the continental United States deployment in FEMA history.

This specialized team supported every mission conducted on the island from securing vehicles on the island to aid in their search and rescue, helping fix generators at hospitals, giving their own MRE’s to hungry children and bringing creativity to solve communications issues with the use of videos on their phones to show families their loved ones were safe.

This team performed incredible rescues and brought the island back to conditions where they could continue their recovery on their own, all above and beyond the scope of their mission, all under extraordinary conditions. They were deployed from 12-28 days on the island, working tirelessly on their mission the entire time.

Today’s luncheon marks the 40th anniversary of our Firefighter of the Year Award and over that period of time many of you have been introduced to dozens of incredible men and women. People in our communities who risk their lives to save ours, who run towards burning buildings while we run away from them, who put their lives on the line in attempt to save someone they do not know. They make their way through flood waters without protective gear to fight a fire. They think quickly in life or death situations to save citizens’ lives. They render aid and assistance to their fellow firefighters and HPD officers. They volunteer on task forces that are deployed in crucial search and rescue missions. We thank them for their service, every single one.

Our 2017 Firefighters of the Year Award recipients are:

Texas Task Force 1Captain Greg Armstrong

Captain Todd KahneyEngineer Operator Beau MorenoEngineer Operator Bill Hagerman

Firefighter Kevin MathisonFirefighter Kenneth Wright

PARTNERS FOR EXCELLENCEBurns &WilcoxImperial PFS

CRC|SCULighthouse Property Insurance Corp.

Myron StevesRPS Houston

Texas Mutual Insurance Co.UFG Insurance


PATRONSAFS/IBEX A division of MetaBank

Blackmon Mooring of HoustonChubbCNA

Delta General AgencyHouston International Insurance Group

WRIGHT Flood



Firefighter of the Year Award Luncheon(continued from page 32)


HIP - 2018 FIWT Annual Convention

New FIWT Board at Installation Dinner 2018

Recipients of CIPT Designation

Susan Schmidt and Amy Weimer as Delegates for FIWT Convention 2018

FIWT 2018 Annual Convention was held in San Marcos, TX on October 18-21st. The new president and serving cabinet were elected and celebrated at the Embassy Suites Hotel. We also recognized the latest recipients of the Certified Insurance Professional of Texas (CIPT) Designation. President and Vice President, Susan Schmidt and Amy Weimer were delegates for the local chapter of Houston Insurance Professionals.


2018 HIP Pink Luncheon at Maggiano’s Little Italy (on Post Oak Blvd)

Our 5th Annual Pink Luncheon is where we annually bring awareness to the public about breast cancer and treatment as well as celebrate life, and survivors. We welcomed speakers Kimen Wheeler and Tom Newiin who spoke to us about how they became involved with understanding, sharing and fundraising for breast cancer. Kimen is one of the founders of old Cruzin to Cure and also a 17 year survivor of breast cancer. John founded Texas Heart Strings for his sister who was taken at 46 years of age. He originally started Texas Heart Strings after he was inspired by the song “Today Is The Day”, by Shake Russell and Michael Hearne. He was inspired to celebrate his late sister’s life rather than mourn her loss. We had 50 people in attendance and while we gather for a somber cause, we celebrate the lives fighters and survivors. Total proceeds to Harley’s Angels Cruzin to Cure was $813.00

Kimen WheelerPink Luncheon Speaker

Robert NewlinPink Luncheon Speaker


projects on the to-do list.

Learn more at www.lighthouse.insuranceHomeowners | Dwelling Fire | Flood | Commercial

https://www.lighthouse.insurance/agents/


CPCU

Left to right:

Tracy Renshaw, Frank Frazar, Lindsey Fremin,

and Teryn Piper

New CPCU Conferment Inductees

Proud to call Texas home We understand the workers compensation needs of Texas employers. We live and work here too.

Workers Compensation – www.servicelloyds.com

Committee Spotlight: Social MediaBy Elizabeth Brock, Co-Chair

Love it or hate it, Social Media is everywhere. Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, just to name a few are common social platforms used by just about everyone. Even our president uses twitter to communicate his personal brand to followers.

Facebook alone has more than 1.2 billion monthly active users and twitter has 336 million monthly active users. Socials are an effective way to network, promote personal brand, sales, marketing, advertising, recruitment and more. IIAH understands the importance of these platforms and has formed a committee for this very reason.

Today the committee meets monthly and consists of Daphne Clark, Ayla Benavides, Zoraida Alviso, Elizabeth Brock and Laura Wisniewski. Our mission is to keep members of IIAH up to date on planned activities throughout the year on all social media outlets. We want to be present at as many IIAH events as possible and publicize on all social media outlets to engage our members and promote IIAH. Our goal is to help grow the membership and keep a positive presence in the Houston Insurance Community. In addition to working with membership, our plan is to partner with all of our IIAH committees.

As IIAH members, we would like to encourage you to follow us on all platforms.

Facebook: https://wwwfacebookcomIndependentInsuranceAgentsOfHoustonIIAH/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iiahassoc/

Twitter: @IIAHAssoc

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/independent-insurance-agents-of-houston/

If you or someone you know is interested in joining us, please contact my Co-Chair, Daphne Clark at [email protected] or me at [email protected]. We would love to have you on the committee!Source for Facebook and Twitter stats: Statista.com

https://wwwfacebookcomIndependentInsuranceAgentsOfHoustonIIAH/

https://www.instagram.com/iiahassoc/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/independent-insurance-agents-of-houston/




http://Statista.com

http://www.servicelloyds.com


© 2018 Texas Mutual Insurance Company

(800) 859-5995 H www.texasmutual.com

In Texas, we have a deep appreciation for our stars—and not just the ones in the sky.

Texas Mutual agents are shining examples of what makes our business and our

company special. It’s the reason we’re so committed to the independent agency

system and why we’re grateful to have you out there guiding us into the future.

(l to r) Lisa Evans, VP Strategic Alliances; Steve Math, SVP Underwriting; Curtis Johnson, Jr., VP Claim Operations; Kim Haugaard, SVP Policyholder Services; Jeff Lentz, VP Underwriting; Rich Gergasko, President/CEO;

Jeanette Ward, COO; Eric Bourquin, VP Safety Services; Mike Barron, CFO and SVP of Financial Services; Bill Jackson, VP Dallas Region; Peppia Gates, VP Houston Region; Jim Kohloff, VP Austin Region

You’re deep in the heart ofTexas Mutual.

https://www.texasmutual.com/AGENTS/HOME?UTM_SOURCE=HIN&UTM_MEDIUM=THANKS


On August 29th, 2018, The IIAH Recreation Committee put on their third annual Sporting Clays Tournament at Westside Sporting Grounds in Katy, TX. We couldn’t have asked for better weather this year as it was an overcast and a mild 88 degrees. It seems like dodging the rain is a constant battle for the recreation committee. For the second year in a row we had an increase of participation with 124 participants. Thanks to our wonderful sponsors, we went from having a hand full of raffle items in prior years to a table full of items that took Robbie more than thirty minutes to raffle off. We were also very lucky to have raised enough money for a $500 gift card to Bass Pro Shop for our Grand Prize Raffle Item. The lucky winner of the grand prize was Drew Kopal, Woodlands Insurance Services.

There were 2 major changes the committee implemented this year:

1. Prior to the clay shoot we had several participants compete in a two man “Flurry”. The two team members make their best attempt at hitting the most clays while over 100 clays are constantly being shot out of the clay trap. If you didn’t participate in the “flurry” I would highly recommend signing up for it next year. It was a blast!

2. This year instead of “trophies” we decided to take a different route and give belt buckles to our top 3 teams. Everyone seemed very impressed at how they turned out.

Stuart and I want to thank every one of our committee members and sponsors for their hard work and generosity. If it wasn’t for you, this event would not have been the success that it was. We would also like to give a special thank you to Alan Doyal, All Risks, for stepping up and coordinating the morning of the shoot. We will continue to work hard to improve our tournament each year. We are already coming up with new ideas and improvements for next year. In the meantime, get your clubs ready for our 2019 Spring Golf Tournament on May 7, 2019 at Blackhorse Golf Club!

Stuart and I would also like to get a very special thanks to the IIAH Staff: Carole Shelton, Renee Stager and Ayla Benavides. Not many people know the amount of hard work you put in behind the scenes to help make all of this happen. Stuart and I are truly grateful for everything you do!

Please join me in congratulating our tournament winners:

1st Place: HARCO Insurance Services: Chris Goff, John Hill, Ron Ingles, Chris Anderson

2nd Place: All Risks: Joe Taylor, Eric Grunwald, Jim Burnham, Thomas Birke

3rd Place: Blackmon Mooring of Houston: John Mitchell, J. R. Love, Tom Pirtall, Rodger Sumicek

Flurry Winners: Wes Kurtz, Pathfinder LL & D Insurance Group and Scott Margraves, TDECU Insurance Agency

IIAH 2nd Annual Sporting Clays Invitationalby Robbie Darnell, IIAH Recreation Committee Chairman



2018 IIAH 3nd Annual Sporting Clays Invitational Sponsors

GRAND PRIZE SPONSORSPlatinum Partners For Excellence

Burns & WilcoxCRS | SCU

Imperial PFSLighthouse Property Insurance Corp

Myron StevesRPS Houston

Texas Mutual Insurance CompanyUFG Insurance


LUNCH SPONSORSGold Patron Sponsors

AFS/IBEX A division of MetaBankBlackmon Mooring of Hoston

CHUBBCNA Insurance

Delta General AgencyHouston International Insurance Group

WRIGHT Flood

John Wayne SponsorTexas Mutual Insurance Company

Beer SponsorTotal Restoration

Score Card SponsorHomeowners of America Insrance Company

Breakfast & Coffee SponsorNationwide

Station SponsorsAccident Fund Insurance Company of America

All RisksBlackmon Mooring of Houston

Burns & WilcoxFIRST Insurance Funding Corporation

Summit HoldingsTexas Mutual Insurance Company

Cart SponsorTexas Mutua Insurance Company

Snack Cart SponsorTryton

Door Prize SponsorsAccident Fund Insurance Company of America

IIAHIIAH

IIAH 2nd Annual Sporting Clays Invitational(continued from page 39)



Lyle Ashley founded Ashley General Agency in 2010, after spending more than 35 years in the surplus lines wholesale industry serving as President and Founder of Surplus Inc. He wrote the first policy for AGA on June 14, 2010, with five employees and five contract carriers. Lyle Ashley passed away in January of 2014 and his daughter, Billie Gorrell, is now President/CEO. Today, Lyle’s legacy has grown to over 20 employees and over $30 million in GWP.

Lyle believed in conducting business with the uppermost moral and ethical standards, while putting the clients’ needs first. AGA’s team devotes their time daily to uphold Lyle’s legacy and vision with the highest respect. They are dedicated to professionalism, technical expertise, and creating valuable relationships with their carriers and agents.

As a Texas-based, independent wholesale managing general agent, AGA underwrites and places nearly all lines of business – not limited to: property, casualty, professional, transportation, energy, environmental, and personal lines. All accounting, processing, and underwriting is handled locally in Conroe, TX so clients can be assured that their accounts will be serviced in a timely and professional manner. AGA’s underwriters and staff members work diligently with their contracted agents who share their commitment to integrity, hard work, and success.

From day one, AGA has focused on service to both their clients and the community. Employees are involved with multiple local service organizations such as helping CPS families, Shriners, and Relay for Life. Employees are also involved in several industry organizations and groups – WSIA, TSLA, and FIWT, to name a few. Billie Gorrell is a committee member with TSLA, and Brenda Richardson and Adam Arnold are active members of Houston Insurance Professionals.

Within the organization, AGA strives to maintain a professional, yet family atmosphere. Holidays and birthdays are always celebrated amongst coworkers, and staff participates frequently in fun, team-building events.

Affiliate Spotlight

Recently, AGA has rolled out a rebranding of their company logo, and has launched a fully redesigned website. They were also named as a 2018 Top Insurance Workplace by Insurance Business Magazine. The award is based on employee surveys and opinions, and required a satisfaction rating of 80% or greater. So not only are AGA employees happy to help their clients, they are also happy to be a part of AGA!


Charitable Committee SpotlightThe Charitable Projects Committee’s main function is to raise funds to be donated to local Houston area charities. The committee also supports the Houston Fire Department and promotes fire prevention in local schools. Throughout the year the committee organizes and hosts many memorable functions including our: Charity Benefit, Charity Bowl, Firefighter of the Year Award Luncheon and the Fire Prevention Poster Contest. The committee is chaired by Sarah Beck with FIRST Insurance Funding and co-chaired by Mary Fran Swank with Hotchkiss Insurance. New committee members with a heart for charity and an enthusiastic spirit are always a welcome addition! To join our committee, contact: Carole Shelton, [email protected], Sarah Beck, [email protected], Mary Fran Swank, [email protected].

Houston Insurance Day CommitteeHouston Insurance Day has come a long way since the first one was held on May 2nd, 1984. 2019 will be our 35th year and you can expect it to be bigger and better than ever. The mission of our committee is to provide networking and educational opportunities for agents and affiliate members through a one-day industry wide convention. The Houston Insurance Day Committee works years in advance planning the event, selecting and securing a key note speaker, selecting educational topics for seminars and securing exhibitors and sponsors. In 2018 we expanded to 133 booths, had over 2,000 attendees and invited all agents, members and non-members of the association, to attend for free. Houston Insurance Day committee would like to thank all of our sponsors and exhibitors for helping make each year a great success as well as our amazing community of agents as it would not be possible without YOU! We hope that you all will join us for a roaring good time as we party like Gatsby and flap the day away on February 20th, 2019 at our Roaring 20’s themed convention. If you would like to join the Houston Insurance Day committee please contact Committee Chairman Courtney Wier at [email protected], Committee Co-Chair Carmen Swift at [email protected] or Staff Liaison Renee Stager at [email protected].

Committee SpotlightS

http://www.summitholdings.com









HIIG ANNOUNCES JOEL VAAG PROMOTION TO CHIEF ACTUARY

Houston International Insurance Group (HIIG) announced today that Joel A. Vaag has been promoted to Chief Actuary of the HIIG Group of Companies. Mr. Vaag joined the Company in 2016 and has been in the insurance actuarial industry for more than 25 years. He will be responsible to continue building a strong, experienced actuarial department for claims and pricing of both Property & Casualty and Accident & Health lines of business.

Hotchkiss Insurance Agency, LLC announces 3 new employees.Hotchkiss welcomes to the Commercial Lines Department, Amanda Shonka – Account Associate, Nick Stulak, Sr. Account Manager and Stephanie Hoffman, also as Sr. Account Manager.

Bankers Insurance Group proudly introduces your business development manager, Amy Marion, ANFI. She offers inside support for you in addition to your Territory Sales Manager. Amy’s been with Bankers for almost two years and holds her 2-20 Property & Casualty Insurance license and continues to work towards additional designations to become a better source of knowledge for her agents.

LUBA Workers’ Comp named one of the nation’s “Best Places to Work in Insurance” Business Insurance magazine announces that LUBA Workers’ Comp has been named its annual “Best Places to Work in Insurance” list. The program selects the country’s best employers in the insurance industry. The list includes agents, brokers, and insurance companies. Also, LUBA Workers’ Comp rated “A- Excellent” by A.M. Best Company for the fifteenth consecutive year!

Kristin L. Downey Named Chief Administrative Officer of AmWINS Group, Inc.

AmWINS Group, Inc. (“AmWINS”), a global distributor of specialty insurance products and services, announced that Kristin L. Downey has been appointed as the company’s Chief Administrative Officer, effective immediately. As Chief Administrative Officer, Downey will lead the firm’s human resources, training & development, marketing, and communications functions. Downey will also lead the company’s philanthropic efforts, including the recently formed AmWINS Foundation.

State Auto Now Accepts American ExpressIn addition to MasterCard and Visa debit/credit cards, State Auto now accepts American Express for customers’ insurance premium payments. This enhancement is effective immediately for Commercial and Personal Lines Legacy business as well as business written on State Auto Connect.



Glatfelter has entered into an agreement to combine with American International Group (AIG).

As you may know, AIG is a leading global insurance organization that serves customers in more than 80 countries and jurisdictions. This combination will bring Glatfelter’s high-quality program underwriting capabilities to AIG while allowing Glatfelter to be part of one of the world’s leading global insurers. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Arthur Seifert, President, Glatfelter Program Managers.

Zurich Insurance Group Ltd. said it agreed to acquire 80% of property/casualty insurer PT Asuransi Adira Dinamika from PT Bank Danamon Indonesia and a minority investor for US$414 million.

Desirée Binion joins Risk Placement Services, Inc. (RPS) We are pleased to announce that Desirée Binion has joined the RPS Texas Team in the RPS Dallas binding office as an Underwriter/Broker. Desirée will report to Rhonda Fomby, RPS Area Vice President and Branch Manager. Desirée was recipient of the FIWT Community Service Award in 2017, Joe D. Hefner Insurance Award Recipient, Dallas Chapter CPCU Scholarship Award Recipient, Insurance Council of

Texas Scholarship Award Recipient, and a DFW Chapter RIMS Scholarship Award Recipient.

Midlands Management Corporation is pleased to announce the addition of Joshua Reynolds, Broker, to the Transportation Unit. Joshua Reynolds is a highly experienced insurance underwriter with 19 years in the industry. He began his career at Texas’s largest worker’s compensation provider where his talent is quickly recognized and commended. Joshua fast-tracks and is rapidly promoted. In 2012, Joshua laser focused his career, becoming the Broker Manager of transportation risks for a noted MGA. Over the next 6 years Joshua hones his skills and deepens his expertise in transportation underwriting.

Amanda Tilford joins Myron Steves to lead the company’s Claims operations. She will be responsible for operating the claims processing unit, including the timely and proper disposition of claims in accordance with bound coverage. She will oversee insurance claims on loss based coverage, appraisal, and verifiable damage. Amanda will also ensure complete and sound claim settlements, legal reviews and investigations in accordance with Myron Steves policies and procedures. Amanda joined Myron Steves after several successful years working for Nationwide E&S Specialty (formally, Scottsdale Insurance Company) as a Claims Adjuster.

HIIG TO PARTNER WITH ENERGI IN NEW CAPTIVE PROGRAM

Houston International Insurance Group (HIIG) announced today that it would enter into a new Partnership with Energi Insurance Services based in Peabody, Massachusetts to provide a captive insurance solution for energy clients wanting alternative insurance coverage.

Jennifer Flake has joined Myron Steves as Director of Transportation. She will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the firm’s transportation business including the long-haul trucking, business auto and garage segments. Building on Steves’ strengths as one of the most respected underwriters in Texas, Jennifer will expand its brokerage capabilities, grow relationships with various carriers and actively produce business to help agents meet their clients’ needs in the increasingly challenging transportation market.

As Director of Healthcare Becky Thompson provides oversight to the Healthcare and Educators Liability departments. Currently Becky has been added to the Executive Team at Myron Steves.

In addition to her existing responsibilities, Becky will lend her experience and competence in helping guide the direction of the company and making big picture decisions to ensure Myron Steves’ success into the future.

Midlands Enters Oklahoma Marijuana Insurance Market

Midlands Management Corporation, a leading wholesale broker and program manager based in Oklahoma City, introduced comprehensive coverage for the marijuana industry. The Midlands program offers products liability, general liability, professional liability, excess liability and more for all segments of the marijuana industry - medical and recreational. Midland’s producers will be able to offer their clients seamless coverage from raw materials to finished goods throughout the supply chain.

Congratulations to Cindy Churchwell of Brady Chapman Holland on her new Granddaughter, Aspen Rose. Born 9/14/18, please see a sweet picture with her and her big brother Eli.

Myron Steves adds Becky Thomson to Executive Leadership



LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

by Thomas M. Braniff, JD, CPCU IIAH Legislative Committee

“The Constitution is NOT an instrument for the government to restrain the people…it IS an instrument for the people to restrain the government.”

— Patrick Henry (A Founding Father of the United States of America 1736-1799)

IIAT Legislative Day At The Capitol

Save The DateDon’t forget to mark your calendar to save the date for IIAT’s “Legislative Day At The Capitol” on Tuesday, January 29th, 2019. This is the Tuesday afternoon following the Joe Vincent Agency Management Seminar in Austin.

We will meet with our legislators at the Capitol, followed by a BarBQ lunch at IIAT’s office, across the street from the Capitol. It is a great opportunity to visit our Capitol and meet with your legislative representatives.

Weather-Related Lawsuits Down Since Passage Of Tort Reform

The Texas Legislature passed House Bill 1774 in the 2017 legislative session. The Bill was designed to curb storm-related lawsuit abuse. The new law has significantly reduced such litigation.

From 2014 to midway through 2018, more than 34,000 weather-related lawsuits were filed throughout Texas…an average of over 625 new suits per month. For the six years prior to 2012, the average was 62 weather-related lawsuits per month.

There was an explosion of questionable lawsuits against insurance companies following each wind and hail event. Property insurers were raising premiums and deductibles, and had stopped offering property coverage all together in certain areas. Certain law firms were unlawfully and unethically recruiting clients through door-to-door solicitation by case generators.

Storm suits spiked in August 2017, the month before the new legislation went into effect, with 1,553 new weather-related lawsuits in a single month.

Under House Bill 1774 lawsuits have declined significantly. The new law appears to be working as intended.


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Agent’s questions about Errors and Omissions, and how E&O losses can be prevented.

We are in the process of setting up new procedures in our Commercial Lines department. As we are discussing the procedures for handling renewals, we have some disagreement about policy checking. We are developing a checklist which will include all areas of the policy which needs to be checked. When a renewal policy comes in, is it necessary to check all of the form numbers and endorsement numbers against the previous term? I say yes, but I am outnumbered and would appreciate your comments. Bette, Texas Bette, count my vote on your side! One of the critical areas of policy review includes checking all form numbers and endorsement numbers. This should be done not only on renewals, but new business as well. There are many E&O claims that occur as a result of some coverage being removed by endorsement at renewal, yet the insured (nor the agent) has any knowledge of the coverage reduction. You might think that if some coverage was reduced at renewal, that the company would have to stand by the previous coverage if they did not notify the customer or the agent, or if it was an error. The courts do not agree. Many courts state that once the agent has received the policy and had an opportunity

to review it, the coverage stands. Unfortunatley, most agents do not find out about the coverage reduction until after the uncovered claim occurs.

Some states require that the insured be notified in situations when coverage has been reduced, but there are usually no requirements to notify the agent. I think you would agree that even if the insured had received a notice, they might not recognize it as anything important that they need to read, or may have read it but not understood it’s impact. This is where the agent can step in and make an understandable explanation, and possibly offer alternatives to secure the lost coverage.

Make sure that when checking form numbers and endorsement numbers that you also verify the edition date to see if it has changed. If you have a clear, detailed checklist, a well-trained assistant or support person can perform the policy checking, referring the checklist or any discrepanices to a more experienced CSR, Account Manager or Producer. It is then their responsibility to identify the differences between the prior term and the renewing coverage and address critical coverage issues with the insured. I encourage you to develop a comprehensive checklist that includes verification of not only form numbers, but all limits, deductibles, locations, operations, co-insurance, etc. The best checklists would address a specific line of business and all areas related to coverage. I commend you and your agency for establishing a good policy checking procedures.

By Mary LaPorte,CPCU, CIC, LIC, CPIA

See Mary’s new book: “Mission: EXCELLENCE – Creating an Internal E&O Loss Control Program”

For more information go to Mary’s website at www.lpinsuranceconsult.com

Mary LaPorte is a consultant and educator with a strong background in Errors & Omissions loss prevention. Forward your E&O questions to [email protected].

©2017 LaPorte Consulting, LLC. All Rights Reserved

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FEDERAL JUDGE ENFORCES APPRAISAL PROVISION AND GRANTS INSURER’S MOTION TO ABATE

by Martin, Disiere, Jefferson & Wisdom, L.L.P.

October 9, 2018

Last week, Judge Nancy F. Atlas of the Southern District of Texas issued the latest opinion in a growing body of law enforcing insurance policy appraisal provisions. In Debesingh v. Geovera Specialty Ins. Co., No. 4:18-CV-02316, 2018 WL 4810629 (S.D. Tex. Oct. 4, 2018), the insured purchased a homeowners insurance policy from GeoVera Specialty Insurance Company to cover certain risks to her residence. The Policy “CONDITIONS” contained an appraisal provision, which states among other things, that “If there is an appraisal: a. You and we agree that any suit for or involving a disagreement in the amount of loss claimed under this policy shall be abated on the demand for appraisal by either you or us until after an appraisal award is issued in accord with this Condition.”

On April 27, 2018, the insured sued GeoVera in Texas state court alleging that GeoVera underpaid her insurance claim for damage to her residence resulting from Hurricane Harvey. She alleged breach of the Policy and violations of the Texas Insurance Code and the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act. GeoVera timely removed the case to federal court based on diversity jurisdiction. GeoVera then sent the insured a written demand for appraisal. After demanding appraisal, GeoVera filed a motion seeking abatement based on the Policy’s appraisal provision and on other grounds.

Judge Atlas began her analysis by noting the key question for courts is whether abatement will aid judicial efficiency and economy. Judge Atlas found that enforcing the unambiguous policy provision “as written” requires abatement. Further, even if the Policy lacked this abatement requirement, the Court would conclude that judicial economy is best served by abatement of the suit. The court granted the motion to abate and ordered the suit to be abated, stayed and administratively closed until after an appraisal award is issued in accord with the parties’ insurance Policy.

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As a member of IIAH you will have access to specialized education programs, advocacy, publications,

networking through meetings and events.

Events & Education

Buying Power: IIAH has partnered with Buying Power to manage our Sprint and Office Depot discount programs

o Office Depot Discounts - A global supplier of brand-name office supplies, office furniture, business products and services. IIAH members receive discounts up to 80% on the entire Office Depot catalog of products and services. o Wireless Service. IIAH members receive a huge discount on

their Sprint rate plans, best corporate pricing on new phones and upgrades, and discounts on accessories!

o Hertz - Savings up to 25% off rentals o AT&T - 20% Discounts on qualified AT&T wireless plans on

Corporate Responsibility User lines of service. o YRC Freight - Significant savings on YRC Freight Services. Career Center

o Post Job Openings o Post Resumes o Review Resumes Education

o IIAH provides 12 hours of CE annually for all member licensed personnel - a total of 12 hours per employee - a value of $336 per employee o Receives 50% discount on all other education programs Group Plans

o Kelsey National has provided quality products from highly rated insurance carriers to IIA members since establishing the IIA Group Insurance Trust in 1966 and now offers IIAH members plans at competitive group rates. Kelsey has a superior customer service team ready to offer IIAH members plans for Dental, Dental with Vision, Life/AD&D, Long-Term Disability and Short-Term Disability. With many plans available to only one enrolling employee, you can begin covering your agency right away. Kelsey has all your employee benefits covered! Houston Insurance Day

o All employees of the agency may attend the exhibit hall for FREE. To attend the breakfast of luncheon keynotes, a meal ticket must be purchased. Houston Insurance News

o Receive the Houston Insurance News publication four times annually that includes industry events, articles and advertisements Insurance School of Texas

o Receives special classroom package pricing of $239.95 o 2 Day Life & Health class or 2 Day Property & Casualty Class o Texas Study Manual o Exam Questions Online IIAH Website Advertising

o All IIAH Member Agents and Affiliates are automatically included in the Find an Agent/Service search engine on the IIAH website. Members may purchase additional search options to include searches by lines of business, direct links to member’s website and logo banner ads.

This service is exclusive to IIAH members only. Legal Shield

o Assist IIAH members and their families with Identity Theft and Legal issues. o Special discounted pricing on individual and family plans

exclusive to IIAH members. Legislative Advocacy & Political Action

o Priceless Merchant Accounts

o Through the IIAH program you can accept every form of payment and provide your clients with the convenience of paying by debit and credit card. Payments can be accepted in person, by-mail, over the phone, by fax and even on line. You will receive discounted enrollment and monthly fees - reduced processing and transactions fees are volume based. Value $100 minimum Member Discounts

o IIAH Members receive a 50% discount on all events and services Logos

EVENTS• Dec. 24-25, 2018 Association Holiday Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

• Dec. 31, 2018 (1/2 day) Association Holiday

Jan. 1, 2019 New Years Eve and New Year’s Day

• Jan. 10, 2019 YIP’s Social, Onion Creek

• Jan. 16, 2019 Jan. Industry Luncheon Maggiano’s Little Italy

• Jan. 26, 2019 Chili Cook-off Bayou Sports Bar & Grill

• Jan. 27-28, 2019 IIAH Joe Vincent Management Seminar

• Jan. 29, 2019 IIAT “Legislative Day” at the Capital

• Feb. 20, 2019 Houston Insurance Day

• April 19, 2019 Association Holiday Good Friday

• May 27, 2019 Association Holiday Memorial Day

EDUCATION• Jan. 16, 2019 Free CE Seminar following January Industry Luncheon Maggiano’s Little Italy

• Jan. 22, 2019 Claims Study Seminar Bowen Miclette Britt

• April 10, 2019 Trucking Seminar, TBD

• April 16, 2019 Free CE Seminar Brady Chapman Holland


Business Card Ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Hull & Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

IIAH Career Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Lighthouse Property Insurance Corp. . . . . . . . . . . 36

LUBA Workers’ Comp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

McClelland & Hine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Midlands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

NeitClem Wholesale Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

RPS Risk Placement Services, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

RSI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48-49

Service Lloyds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Summit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Texas All Risk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Texas Construction Safety Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Texas Mutual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

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Here are the questions:

Where do you work?

Myron Steves

What sound do you love?

The sound of laughter because then you know people are having a good relaxed time. Music- I have always liked the latest tunes stay within the current times!!

If you could paint a picture of any scenery you’ve seen before, what would you paint? My first thought is looking back to my childhood when I was in Austria visiting my grandparents in Vienna. There was a beautiful park and the white swans were swimming in the pond. A nice moment.

What was the first thing youbought with your own money?

A world bank when I was a child. I was great at saving monies when I was a child.

If you could choose to stay a certain age forever, what age would it be?

That is a tough one because each age has brought a special treasure. For the youthful appearance 39 would be a great year to stay!! People respect you at 39 and don’t think you are too young and smart enough to have some experience behind you too.

What did you do growing up that got you into trouble?

That also is a tough one, I was one of those children that followed rules well because we were brought into a military home and a loved home so we had happy times. I probably stayed out too long playing. I basically was a good child.

Weirdest thing you have ever eaten?

OH I was married to a Hawaiian and I would say poi was about the strangest thing I have every eaten.

What is your pet peeve in traffic?

Tailgating is the worst.

Do you have any hidden talents?

Great cook even though I cook for myself.

What is your favorite flavor of jelly beans?

They are all great except some in the games that taste like dirt or worse but crushed pineapple is great.

What is your favorite electronic device?

My phone of course

What is the longest car trip you have

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ever taken?

As a child we drove everywhere visiting relatives. My dad was in the army stationed in Los Angles and I remember driving at age 5 from Los Angeles to Tampa, Florida. That is one long drive in the car with two other siblings.

Can vegetarians eat animalcrackers?

Sure but just don’t look at what you are eating!!

Ninjas or pirates?

pirates

What was your favorite childhood television program?

The Flintstones

Are you a collector of anything?

Too much: stamps, coins, figurines, shells, salt & pepper shakers, Astro bobble heads, napkins rings and it goes on.

At a movie theater, which arm rest is yours?

Both

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Anna Marie Kizer

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YOU DO! Tell The HoustonInsurance News!

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Committed To Excellence

RPS is a nationally focused wholesale insurance broker recognized as the largest MGA in the country. We are committed to providing our associates the knowledge that builds successful relationships with our carriers and our customers and the ongoing training, education and development to attract, retain and motivate top performers. It’s a commitment to professional excellence a true partner expects from a market leader.

To learn more how RPS is building partner relationships with retail agents and brokers across the country, we invite you to download our Building Rela-tionships That Thrive at RPSins.com/Relationships. For other information contact Walter Tomlinson 832.300.2238, [email protected] or email [email protected].

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