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JULY/AUGUST 2006

TriCounty Independent Insurance Agents Association, Inc.
Independent
Insurance
Agent ®

Photo of Capital Building taken by Vincent Alba of Suffolk Big “I”
the day of the IIAB Legislative Conference in Washington, DC.

Inside..
Past & New President Messages
Family Day at Shea Info
Downstate Golf and Fishing Apps.

Log on to our website
tricountyagents.com
for more information
Independent
Insurance
Agent ®

INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENTS ASSOCIATION

2006-07
OFFICERS & DIRECTORS
OFFICERS
President Kevin R. Crossley, Club Insurance Brokerage tel. 516-873-2360/fax 742-9883
1415 Kellum Place, Garden City, NY 11530 kcrossley@clubagency.com
President Elect Brian L. Bergman, Meyerson-Roth Co., Inc. tel. 516-432-5800/fax 432-5274
30 B West New York Ave., Long Beach, NY 11561 brian@yourcoverage.com
Vice President Evan S. Portnoy, Rampart Brokerage Corp. tel. 516-538-7000/fax 390-3555
1983 Marcus Avenue, Ste #C-130, New Hyde Park, NY 11042 eportnoy@rampartinsurance.com
Treasurer Stephen Folan, The Folan Agency, Ltd. tel. 516-944-9400/fax 944-9879
378 Port Washington Blvd., Port Washington, NY 1105 folanins@aol.com
Secretary Steven Visco, PhD, AAI, C.H. Edwards, Inc. tel. 516-249-5200/fax 249-5255
791 South Main Street, Farmingdale, NY 11735 svisco@chedwards.net
Immediate Past President Kenneth J. Hehir, Jr., CFP, NGL Insurance Group tel. 516-599-1100/fax 599-2968
112 Merrick Road, Lynbrook, NY 11563 kenh@nglgroup.com
DIRECTORS
Eileen Abatelli Black, CPCU tel. 718-352-6000/fax 352-3420 - eblack@abatelli-insurance.com
Justin Fries, CPCU, CIC tel. 516-837-1100/fax 837-1200 - jfries@gafinsurance.com
Richard Longueira, AAI tel. 718-445-1910/fax 461-6546 - rick@petrocelligroup.com
James Stipp, CPCU tel. 516-627-5800/fax 627-8849 - jstipp@blaichassoc.com
Fitzgerald Ventura tel. 718-279-7705/fax718-631-0067 – fitz@intercityagency.com
Robert Mackoul, CLU tel. 516-431-9100/fax 516-431-4641 - remackoul@mackoul.com

OTHER POSITIONS

IIABNY Chair of the Board Sharon Emek, CIC, PhD tel: 212-684-5670/fax 212-684-5673 - semek@cbsinsurance.com
Regional Directors Lane S. Rubin tel: 516-224-9700/fax 516-228-9809 - irubin@excelcoverage.com
Russell Grant, MBA tel: 845-735-5200/fax 845-735-2905 - russell.grant2@verizon.net
Russell C. Vollmer tel: 631-261-1972/fax 631-261-1978 - russ.vollmer@vollmeradairagency.com
Tri-Lines Editors Joseph Tunkel tel. 516-647-7105/fax 516-599-5622 - frstqlty@netscape.com
Richard Longueira, AAI
TriCounty IIAA Executive Director Patricia Calvert tel. 516-621-2209/fax 484-9051 - calvertpc@aol.com
Advertising & Sponsor Sales Dan F. Palmieri, F.A. tel. 516-622-0030/fax 622-0034 - DFAP@aol.com
State National Director Steven J. Spiro, CLU, ChFC tel. 516-568-0800/fax 516-568-0809 - sspiro@spirorisk.com

Association Address: TriCounty IIAA • PO Box 316 • Albertson, NY 11507 • Phone No. (516) 621-2209 • FAX (516) 484-9051
Retiring President’s Remarks
I can’t believe it has been a whole year. I know everyone As I look back now, I
says that time flies, but these days, you know time really does have a number of people
fly when faxes are considered slow. And this past year has to thank that have made
been a blur. my year a lot easier. First,
Let’s see, a year ago, when I took office: I would like to thank
• Katrina was the name of a Russian dancer. Bruce Chester and Kevin.
• Wilma was a cartoon wife, married to Fred These two gentlemen
Flintstone. could not have been better
• Multi Decadal Oscillation was unheard of. as Past President and by Ken Hehir, CFP ®
• All State Insurance was still writing new business President Elect. There were
downstate. times during the year I had them on speed dial, I called so
• The Spitzer assault on the insurance industry was often. They would always take the call and help me out.
actually fading. The remainder of my executive board, Brian, Evan and
• A flood exclusion was just that…a flood EXCLU- Steve, were so very helpful, not only at meetings but also
SION. making trips with me on behalf of the organization to
• And the Red Sox were the reigning World Series Albany, Washington, D.C., and New York City.
Champs. The Board of Director made me look very good. These
A year later, all that I have just mentioned are changed, or Directors included Eileen Black and Gary Shapiro who
are changing, and I look back and wonder if we made a dif- organized and ran the meetings and programs about which I
ference. Much like the world, insurance is not strictly black previously spoke. Jim Stipp ran the scholarship, which had
and white…but very much gray and a definitive answer as to 274 applications this year. Five years ago we had 12. Fitz
the difference we’ve made may not be easy to see or touch. Ventura was so successful as Legislative Chair that we needed
But it was not for lack of trying. We as a board have tried a two teams in both Albany and Washington and we got to see
number of new and different approaches to help our mem- dozens of lawmakers. And Fitz also became a movie star of
bers and the insurance industry during the year. sorts. Steve Visco…well if you have seen the latest and
We had meetings with diverse subjects and agendas that newest Member Directory then you know the awesome job
were educational, timely and informative. he did. Justin Fries as member services chair (we are the
We had meetings at different venues in three counties. largest local association in NY) and Rick Longueira who not
We subsidized some meetings for members. only helps publish Tri-Lines Magazine…but also ran our
We had both breakfast and evening meetings, and we had successful and fun Mets night last summer…as a huge
special speakers ranging from NY Superintendent of Yankee fan.
Insurance Howard Mills to Sharon Emek, Chair of IIAANY, I also have to give special thanks to a group of individuals
to Army Ranger Keni Thomas, who was a platoon leader in who were always there. There are a group of past
Somalia at the Black Hawk Down army helicopter tragedy. Presidents, Rick Longueira, Lane Rubin, Steve and Dave
We even had an outing to the Mets game. Spiro, Tom Reardon and Joe Tunkel. They always lend a
We made legislative trips to Albany and Washington, D.C., hand and more important, a little guidance and historical
and we have continued our scholarship program. perspective. You guys always keep involved, come to virtual-
I hope my fellow agents and industry friends have availed ly every meeting, both Board and regular, and have helped
and will continue to avail themselves of the many opportuni- me immensely, more than you will ever know
ties the Tri County Insurance Agents Association brings to Thanks also go to our sponsors and company friends. You
their business and their life. Over the past year, I have had have been loyal to us agents throughout the year and we
the privilege of meeting many new agents and making many could not do our work without your help.
new friends. I hope we have made some difference…time Pat Calvert. Your award, much deserved, shows what Pat
will tell…but it’s been both fun and gratifying. truly means to this organization and to me. Our Board
Frankly I have really had a blast. There is still unfinished members, like you all, have daily jobs, businesses and families
business, as there always will be, and this organization has a to take care of. Without Pat, our organization would not be
great person to take the lead in Kevin Crossley. the strongest local association in NY.
I’ve known Kevin for about nine years now; he has And finally, to the members of our association, thank you
become a good friend. He brings a different perspective to for putting your trust in me to serve as your president. I
the table, as well as a host of insurance and business expert- have been honored to represent you, our association and our
ise. He has a wealth of life experiences from going to col- industry.
lege in rural New Hampshire to being a Councilman in New So, now that I am a has-been…it is time to bring in the
Jersey to being a business owner on Long Island. new. Good luck Kevin.

1
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2
President’s Message
What a great evening! We had a fabulous turnout at the aware of the issues and chal-
installation dinner. For those agents that were unable to attend lenges that will be before us
the dinner, I would like to share with you my reflection on the and you can be assured your
past and the focus on the future of our association, that I high- association will address and
lighted in my installation speech: continue to speak out on all
Welcome everyone and thank you for attending our Tri- fronts that concern our
County Independent Insurance Agents Association Installment members, their agencies and
Dinner. the industry.
It is so good to see many of my family and friends here with Tonight is not about me, Kevin R. Crossley,
us tonight. A special welcome to three of my best friends, my it’s not about my board mem- President
daughters Alison, Melissa and Nina (who I call stretch). I even bers. Tonight is about our associ-
put my oldest daughter Alison to work tonight as she has been ation. Yes, tonight is a celebration to thank the men and
entertaining us on her flute. In addition to Alison…we have women who continue to serve our fine organization. Men and
the talented Keith Sattely on the keyboard. Women who serve our association with dedication, honor, trust
A special welcome to my brother, Dennis and my AAA and integrity. Some of the finest independent insurance agents
friends. in the state. Men and Women that are professionals in the insur-
Also, a special thanks to my good friend and business partner ance industry and well respected leaders in their communities.
Mark Derrenberger for being a true friend. I could not think I am proud to be a member of Tri County Independent
of a better business partner. Thank you, Mark. And of course Insurance Agents and I know I join an elite group of members
I could not do all this without my Club Agency Executive that support, participate, call to action, join committees, attend
Team, who certainly makes it easier for me to be involved in meetings and continue to help the association to be on the
volunteering my services. Thank you guys. forefront of all the challenges that confront our own agencies
I also want to acknowledge and thank my friend and business and this ever changing industry of ours.
associate Jack Howlett for delivering the proclamation from the I know many of you here tonight are active members who
State Senate and Assembly. Their good wishes and success to attend our meetings and you know the value of your associa-
me and the entire Tri County Board and its members, is greatly tion. We will continue to work hard to develop programs that
appreciated. will be meaningful and informative with a little fun mixed in.
I am also honored that two of my fellow council members Soon you will be hearing about what we have on tap for the
are with us tonight…all the way from Ho-Ho-Kus, New coming year.
Jersey…Councilman John Mongelli and Councilman Hugh You know, your association is so much more than just the
Turk. meetings…its educational classes…college scholarship pro-
I also want to acknowledge our past presidents of our associ- gram…as you heard tonight we had over 275 applicants apply
ation who have dedicated so much of their time and talent for for the two scholarships this year. Your association is also…the
the good of our association. Tri-Lines publication…always highlighting key topics at our
I see our past presidents as professors of the game and for the meeting…sponsorship ads and so much more…our website
ones that wish to be a little more active in the association, I with the latest information…our member services/Insur
have a plan in place that I will release in the coming Pac/trips to Albany and Washington, DC to talk with our local
months…so stay tuned. and state legislators…our sold-out golf outing and so many
Included in that group of past presidents is the woman you more committees that bring value to your agency and your
can blame for me being here…my longtime friend, Maura membership.
Clancy. Also, included in that special group is our immediate All this works if our members participate and see the value
past president and my good friend who I enjoyed serving under this association brings to their agency. Join us as often as you
and who made Tri County a stronger and more vibrant associa- can, join a committee…even if you’re not on the board and
tion…a man who you always knew where he stood on all the you want to help…ask me…or ask a business associate to join
issues…Ladies and Gentlemen our immediate past president you at the next meeting.
Ken Hehir. I am excited about this coming year and as your President, I
I want to congratulate the two winners of our Joel Pollack will work hard to deliver the promise of this association to its
and Stephen Dooley scholarship program…congratulations to members, as did the men and women that came before me.
both of you and I know scholarship dollars can certainly ease In closing, I want to congratulate my new slate of officers
the burden of the escalating cost of education. and directors. I know them all and they are hard-working indi-
My message to you will be brief…so if you give me a couple viduals that I look forward to spending time with in the com-
of minutes of your time it will be appreciated…thank ing months.
you…tonight is not the night to hear about all the challenges Thank you for listening and please enjoy the rest of the
that our industry will be facing in the coming year. I am fully evening.

3
National Legislative Conference Report
by Fitz Ventura
The 27th Annual 2006 Big I National Legislative (i.e. expiration lists) are amortized over a 15-year
Conference occurred in Washington, D.C. April 26th through period. Big I supports an amortization period of five
the 28th. The event was well attended by over 1,700 years, which would have a positive impact on the
agents who were also there to attend the National value of service businesses. H.R. 4960, the Tax
Conference. Fairness for Small Business Act of 2006, introduced by
The dissent of large numbers of independent agents and House Chief Deputy Majority Whip Eric Cantor (R-VA)
brokers on Washington and their subsequent lobbying and Rep. Earl Pomeroy (D-N.D.), would revise the
efforts on issues that impact our clients and business do amortization schedule for intangible assets to better
not go unnoticed by the political elite. Keynote speakers reflect their useful life.
this year were House Majority Leader John Boehner (R-Ohio) • Terrorism Insurance – The Terrorism Risk Insurance
and Senator Mark Pryor (D-Ark.), both of whom expressed Extension Act of 2005, S.467, was signed into law by
support for the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers. President Bush on Dec. 22, 2005. In addition to
Big I notes that the “National Conference has long been an extending TRIA for another two years there were some
important speaking engagement for prominent political modifications to the law which the Big I supported
leaders including Ronald Reagan, George Bush and including: limiting federal interaction in the insurance
Bill Clinton.” marketplace, a requirement from private carriers that
coverage will continue to be available, and that
Agents and brokers from downstate New York ought to
coverage triggers would remain reasonable.
know that their interests were well represented by
A special thank you to the following members of
approximately 10 members of the Tri-County Board. Agents
Congress who made themselves personally available, who
in attendance took the opportunity to educate local
were well informed of our issues and generous with their
legislators on the importance to our clients of:
time:
• Modernization of the National Flood Insurance Program
- Congressman Gary Ackerman – of the 5th congressional
(NFIP) – recent flood claims, particularly those related district
to the hurricane season, have significantly impacted - Congressman Joseph Crowley – of the 7th congressional
the NFIP’s future ability to pay claims thereby district
necessitating additional legislatively granted temporary - Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney – of the 14th
borrowing authority. Beyond that, however, New York congressional district
agents stressed the importance of modernizing the - Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy – of the 4th
available coverage in the program to provide optional congressional district
business interruption insurance for commercial Furthermore, we met with the staff members for
policyholders, an automatic base amount of additional Congressman Anthony Weiner – 9th district, Congressman
living expense coverage for residential consumers with Gregory Meeks – 6th district, Congressman Vito Fosella – 13th
the option to purchase increased coverage, a base district, Congressman Peter King – 3rd district, Congressman
amount of finished basement coverage on residential Major Owens – 11th district, Congressman Edolphus Townes
policies and optional replacement cost coverage for – 10th district and Congresswoman Nydia Vasquez – 12th
contents and commercial buildings. district.
• Tax Reform – The current code has certain provisions Regrettably, we were unable to meet with Senators
that discourage small business owners from growing Schumer and Clinton. We hope to be able to get on their
and creating jobs in that certain intangible assets calendar next year.

Congressman Gary Ackerman (with carnation) and Congressman Tim Bishop (without jacket) and members of
members of Suffolk and TriCounty agents Suffolk agents

4
Congressman Steve Israel (seated without jacket) with Former Secretary of State and Former Chairman of the
members of TriCounty and Suffolk agents Joint Chiefs of Staff Colin Powell spent nearly one hour
talking to all the agents in attendance.

President Bob Rusbuldt addressing the conference.

OTHER VIPs and SPEAKERS

5
The Principals and Staff of

Morstan General Agency, Inc.

wish to thank our friends and business associates of the

TRI COUNTY INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENTS
ASSOCIATION, INC.

For the many years we have spent together,
grown together and now look forward toward the future together.
You’re all an important part of our lives.
Thank you one and all.

Jay Levy Al Eskanazy Howard Levy Bob Finkel

Morstan General Agency, Inc.
600 Community Drive,
P.O. Box 4500
Manhasset, NY 11030-4500
PH: 516-488-4747 FAX: 516-327-0200

6
Building Bridges
'Solidarity in Weakness'.....Joy is hidden in compassion.
The word compassion literally means 'to suffer with'. It
seems quite unlikely that suffering with another person
would bring joy. Yet being with a person in pain, offering
simple presence to someone in despair, sharing with a
friend times of confusion and uncertainty...such experi-
ences can bring us deep joy. Not happiness, not excite- TriCounty Agent Member Terry Flood
ment, not great satisfaction, but the quiet joy of being with Nicaraguan children
there for someone else and living in deep solidarity with
our brothers and sisters in this human family. Often this is ed about the Gringos arriving. Adjacent to our dorm was
solidarity in weakness, in brokenness, in woundedness, but the school. It was strange to see that most the children
it leads us to the center of joy, which is sharing our were uniforms and it was a public school.
humanity with others.' A quote from the theologian, Crisp white shirts, clean shoes, and pressed skirts and
Henri Nouwen pants.
What does this mean??? Quite ironic for the volume of dust, dirt roads, and dirt
I questioned this prior to departing with 18 other insur- floors in their homes. Some children were not in uniforms.
ance professionals on a humanitarian trip to build houses Why you ask? You see, in Nicaragua, the poverty is at such
for the destitute in Nicaragua. Eighteen of us, led by an extreme that the children are required by law to wear
Mark Rollins of the Rollins Group, left on Feb. 5th to be uniforms at school. By wearing uniforms, the children
completely immersed with the poor of Nicaragua. The trip can’t ascertain amongst themselves who is poorer. What
was facilitated by Bridges to Community, a not-for-profit about the children not in uniforms, those are children
organization based in Westchester. whose parents could not afford the $30.00 per year for the
We arrived in Nicaragua late Sunday evening. The uniform. No uniform, no school.
group of us arrived at the airport about the same time. After settling in, it was off to meet the eight families that
The first night, we headed to our hotel in Massaya, about we raised the money to sponsor a home. The cost of
20 minutes outside the village of Los Conchitas where we building a home is $3,500. For $3,500 the family is built a
would be building the two homes, and start a third. 15 by 18 concrete block one-room house with a steel roof.
Once we cleared the bat out of the room, things settled There is no running water, electric outlets, or indoor bath-
down. The next morning, we awoke for some sight-seeing rooms in the house. This would be a true luxury.
prior to being immersed into Los Conchitas. Bonnie and We arrived at the first family’s home. This was not a fam-
Jim Gordon from Bridges to Community met us and acted ily that I personally sponsored, but another member of our
as our guide and mentors for the week. After sight-seeing team, Roger Sitkins and his son Patrick. We walked up the
and a brief lunch, it was time to go to Los Conchitas. dusty path to the house, and learned that in this shack that
During the ride on the bus, it reminded me a lot of “the was about 12 feet by 15 feet lived eight people. There was
poor areas” of St. Thomas. It was when we turned off the a single twin bed that slept five people. Two hammocks for
road, onto a dirt bump ridden road that conditions went the children to sleep. No floor, just dirt. The walls were
from bad to worse. scrap wood, the roof tarp that was torn in places. Open
Garbage stacked up along the road, huts made of scrap electric wires lit the one light bulb in the open area.
wood and rusted sheets of metal started to appear one The family was very excited to meet us. I bought candy
after the next. Living conditions that are indescribable to give to the children at the houses, all shyly accepted this
appeared one after the next. Malnourished dogs were small gift. This continued for the next six houses. Dennis
wandering, along with the pigs and chickens. A few miles Kelly, one of my salesmen, met his family at house number
later, and 18 insurance professionals arrived in Los 7. It was a young couple; Yeri was about 18, his wife Ilse
Conchitas and settled into our concrete block dorm where about 16. She was 7 months pregnant. He makes about
we would be spending the week. $1.50 a day as a mason. Yeri was a mason on our building
Our greeting party consisted of 100+ children, all excit- crew. Dennis stood proudly with Yeri and Ilse as he handed

Continued on Page 8

7
Continued from Page 7

a picture of himself and his girlfriend to the couple. Those thought was pregnant. When asked when she was due, she
of us who raised enough money to sponsor a house had to told Mark she was not pregnant, but that she had a tumor
bring a picture of our family to give to the family we were in her abdomen. She told us that she could not afford the
sponsoring. $450.00 for the operation. When Mark told Bonnie and
Then it was my turn to meet the family I sponsored. Jim that he would pay for it, Mark was told that the
Three generations living in a shack of scrap wood and rust- money should be given directly to Bonnie and Jim.
ed tin. They had two beautiful daughters who were in Otherwise, she would give the money to her family instead
their best clothes. As I of getting the operation.
walked up to greet them, We met others families
something happened. As I who had been to a medical
reached into my backpack to clinic, but could not afford
hand over the picture of my the $2 pills. In the recent
family, I stopped, looked and Time Magazine “Persons of
thought. I saw this young the Year” issue, this was
family living in this horrid called “stupid poverty,” the
condition struggling and suf- people who die for want of
fering to get by with the two a $2 pill because they live
children. Emotionally, I on $1.00 a day. For an
could not help but think of 8-month-old infant to perish
my wife and three children Terry Flood and Dennis Kelly of the Flood Group because of dehydration and
back in New York. What was pose with a child in front of a home they are diarrhea because the family
it that separated me from building in Nicaragua can’t afford medical care is
them? I could barely intro- an injustice and pure shame.
duce to them who was in my family picture. One could We worked hard the next few days building both houses,
not help but think that this could easily have been my fam- and poured the footings for the third house. On Friday
ily if not by the grace of birth back home. afternoon, we were finished with what we could do, the
After meeting all the families, we ventured back onto the welders had to come to put the roof on. Bridges to
pickups to go back to our dorm. The sun was setting over Community had us scheduled to leave the village Friday
an active volcano, a beautiful sight to behold. Ironic, evening, returning to the comforts of the hotel. We were
because of the sights just felt. to return to the community one last time for the house
The next day, we loaded up to go to the worksite where dedication Saturday evening once the roof was on and the
we began building the homes. Over the next few days, the red clay tile floor was set.
house began to take shape. The new house standing next All 18 of us arrived back to Los Conchitas Saturday
to the old and one could easily see how this house will dra- evening for the house dedication. One Hundred Fifty
matically improve the family’s standard of living. Members members of the community turned out to thank us. The
of the community would come over to assist. Never asked owner of one of the houses spoke, about how his lifelong
to, but they came willingly and eagerly. The poorest of the dream was fulfilled and that his family would have a safe
poor all came to help, never once asking for a handout or shelter. He was heartfelt when he spoke. A dignity and
money. They worked proudly, diligently, and quietly for level of appreciation I never experienced. He has been
hours at a time. The sense of community and pride was given the opportunity. The man who would not show his
much to be admired for people that had so little. face the first day stood proudly in front of us all as well as
Communicating was difficult at times, but our hosts Jim his community. He would pay Bridges to Community $10
and Bonnie Gordon were always around to help with the a month for seven years for this new house. Bridges
Spanish to English translations. believes that this helps build a sense of pride in that it was
During the evening free hours, a few of us would stroll not just given to him.
down the dirt lane to see the horrid living conditions. We were served candy and soda by the community.
One night, we met a young couple weeping. When asked With them not knowing, the people who had so little, gave
through the translator why they were crying, we discov- and taught us so much. In the end, the community gave
ered that their 8-month-old died of dehydration. To the us a departing gift, a painting of the two houses being
next family, where Mark Rollins met a lady whom he built with all of our names in the painting. It said “With

Continued on Page 9

8
Continued from Page 8

much love and appreciation from the community of Los happen if they don’t. The risk of pity is that it kills kind-
Conchitas.” ness; the promise of passion is that it builds hope that the
'Solidarity in Weakness'.....Joy is hidden in compassion poor are fully capable of helping themselves if given the
had new meaning after my return. Many lessons were chance. In 2006, the world’s poor needed no more con-
learned from being immersed with the poor. The pride, dolences; they needed people to get interested, get mad,
the love of family, the respect for elders, the ability to over- and get to work!”
come major obstacles, to make the most of so little, the
value of life and respect for others. So who really benefit- Terrence C. Flood
ed from the trip, I can honestly say that I came back with
The Flood Group, LLC
far more than I gave, and my 18 fellow insurance associates
718-746-1500
look forward to the trip next year.
In closing, I’ll borrow one more paragraph from
“Time.” “This is not about pity. It’s more about passion. Bridges to Community
Pity sees suffering and wants to ease the pain; passion sees 95 Croton Avenue
injustice and wants to settle the score. Pity implores the Ossining, NY 10562
powerful to pay attention; passion warns them what will Tel 914 923 2200

To advertise or sponsor call Dan Palmieri
516-622-0030

9
TRI-COUNTY “BIG I”
FAMILY & NETWORKING
DAY AT SHEA STADIUM
PICNIC AREA.

HURRY! TICKETS ARE LIMITED.
PAID RESERVATIONS ONLY!
RSVP TO RICK LONGUEIRA
(718) 445-1910

10
IF YOU DO, STEP UP TO THE PLATE NOW!

TriCounty is offering ‘one of a kind only’ sponsorships
on a ‘first come’ basis to our associates for a grand slam

‘Tri County Family Day at Shea Stadium’

Sunday, September 10th, 2006
Sponsorship costs $300.00 …AND it includes one complimentary
ticket for the game and the barbeque, valued at $60.00!
Sponsors may distribute materials to the group and we will take your photo
with members of Tri County and their families for our publication,
Tri-Lines.
Fax this form to 718-461-6546 NOW….. then mail it with your check,
payable to TriCountyIIAA, to our administration office. If you slide in first,
we’ll fax or e-mail you a sponsor confirmation notice.
………………………………………………………………

We would like to be a sponsor at the ‘Tri County Family Day at Shea
Stadium’ September 10th, 2006. Game time is 1:10pm. Arrive early for
the food and fun in the Picnic Area!

………………………………………………………………
(Add separate sheet if needed)
11
12
Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of New York, Inc.

Insurance Industry Role Models Receive IIABNY Annual Awards
Individuals who have performed beyond the call of them on the Long Island homeowners insurance crisis.
duty were among those honored May 5 by the Even prior to the recent business restrictions by
Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of New York Allstate, MetLife and Nationwide on Long Island,
Inc. for their contributions to the insurance profession Crowley worked diligently to ease the tightening
and service to community activities over the past 12 homeowners insurance marketplace and its effects on
months. The association recognized their achieve- the consumer.
ments when it presented its annual awards at
IIABNY’s 2006 Annual Business Meeting, held at The Steven J. Spiro, president of Spiro Risk Management
Roosevelt Hotel in New York City. The awards presen- in Valley Stream and IIABNY State National Director,
tation preceded the election of new officers and was honored by the American Association of
regional directors. Managing General Agents with the Association
Achievement Award. Spiro, who was also elected IIAB-
The award recipients: NY president in 2000, was honored for his distin-
guished service to IIABNY and outstanding industry
Thomas J. Crowley, vice president of Maran achievements.
Corporate Risk Associates, Inc., Southampton,
received the Outstanding Local President Award. Sharon Emek, IIABNY’s current chair of the board, is
Crowley, who is president of the Independent the lone 2006 recipient of the IIABNY Distinguished
Insurance Agents & Brokers of Suffolk County, was Service Award, the association’s highest honor.
recognized for his commitment in developing greater Outgoing Chair Mark J. Hagan presented the award,
member involvement within the Long Island associa- which recognized Emek’s “unselfish sacrifice” of time
tion. In addition, he has expanded his market exper- and effort to better the insurance community in New
tise to local, state and national leaders, informing York State and her community.

Arthur Taibe Joins Iroquois®
April 19, 2006, Olean, NY: The Iroquois property and casualty business in New York, and
Group® recently announced that Arthur Taibe, he is known and respected by most of the agents
CIV has joined Iroquois® as a Regional Manager in the Hudson River Valley and downstate. We
to serve member agents in New York State. After are confident that he can further strengthen our
graduation from St. Johns University, Art started well-established position here.”
a long and prestigious career with three insurance
companies, serving in various sales, marketing The Iroquois Group® is one of the oldest and
and branch management positions in New York. largest networks of Property and Casualty insur-
He currently resides in Danbury, CT, with his ance agencies in the country today, with more
wife Pat. than 1,500 Member Agents nationwide. Iroquois®
has been creating winning partnerships between
“We are very fortunate to have Art join our agents and carriers for over 25 years. By providing
Iroquois team,” said Iroquois® Managing Partner, markets, expertise and support, Iroquois® helps
Ted Branch. “Art has extensive knowledge of the independent agents remain independent.

13
SMK Administrative Agency, LLC
118-35 Queens Blvd.
Forest Hills, New York 11375
718-544-1700 718-268-7067 Fax
SMK represents many of the major National and Regional
Companies!
We write a wide range of Businesses Including:
Office risk, including Doctors, Dentists,
Chiropractors, Eye Care…
Automotive Service Stations and Repair Shops
Technology and Internet Businesses
Retail Stores
Wholesalers & Distributors
Manufacturers
Habitational
Importers and Exporters
Restaurants
Food Processors and Food Industry Risks
Shopping Centers and Building Owners
We write your entire account, all lines of business; BOP’s, Package Policies,
CGL, Automobile, Inland and Ocean Marine, Worker’s Compensation,
Umbrella including mono-line Umbrella, Excess Limits.

We want to write Queens County Personal Auto!

For additional information about becoming an SMK Administrative
Broker please contact Jack Wallace, Marketing Director,
718-544-1700 or E Mail: Jwallace@SMKlein.com.
SMK Administrative Agency, LLC is a division of S&M Klein Company, Inc.

14
Congratulations To…
On the Agency Side -
Andrea Cali Earns IIAA’s Accredited Customer Bibi Baksh from MRW Group in Lynbrook successfully
Service Representative Designation completed the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers
IIABNY is proud to inform you that on March 22, 2006, of America’s Accredited Customer Service Representative
Andrea Cali from Ability Service Agency in Baldwin (ACSR) designation program in Personal Lines. She
successfully completed the Independent Insurance Agents attended a minimum of 5 days of intensive insurance
& Brokers of America’s Accredited Customer Service training and passed 5 comprehensive examinations to
Representative (ACSR) designation program in achieve this great accomplishment.
Commercial Lines.
ACSR is an international designation program developed
Diana Kilbourn Earns IIAA’s Accredited Customer and administered by IIABA to promote and recognize
Service Representative Designation the professionalism of customer service personnel in the
IIABNY is proud to inform you that as of April 12, insurance industry. Over 13,000 customer service
2006, Diana Kilbourn from MRW Group in Lynbrook representatives have achieved their designations making
ACSR the largest CSR training program in North
successfully completed the Independent Insurance Agents
America. In addition, the program has been approved in
& Brokers of America’s Accredited Customer
most states for continuing education credit for agent’s
Representative (ACSR) designation program in
licensing renewal.
Commercial Lines.

For more information on earning the ACSR designation,
They each attended a minimum of 6 days of intensive
contact IIABNY’s Education Department.
insurance training and passed 6 comprehensive
examinations to achieve this great accomplishment.
On the Company Side -
Bibi Baksh Earns IIAA’s Accredited Customer Service Cindy Davis, Administrative Supervisor at Merchants
Representative Designation Insurance Group has earned her MBA from Dowling
IIABNY is proud to inform you that on April 12, 2006, College in Oakdale.

Suggestions for C-MAP Improvement Sought
As the Long Island market continues to homeowners unable to obtain coverage in the
deteriorate, more agents and brokers may be voluntary market. After a decade, the C-MAP
forced to place homeowners’ coverage through the program currently writes just under 5,000 policies.
Coastal Markets Assistance Program (C-MAP). In an IIABNY’s Senior Vice President of Industry
effort to streamline the C-MAP process and make Relations Kathy Weinheimer is looking for input
it more “agent-friendly,” IIABNY is working with from Long Island agents who are familiar with the
the New York State Insurance Department and the program and have suggestions for improvement,
New York Property Insurance Underwriting especially for the submission process. Please
Association (NYPIUA) to recommend procedural email Kathy Weinheimer with your comments and
changes to the program. Established in 1996, the suggestions at kweinheimer@iiabny.org or call her
C-MAP program filled the void for those at (800) 962-7950.

15
16
Mackoul Fuel……For Thought
Sitting in the Lustig & Brown E&O seminar last do have an obligation
week, I thought to myself, that as much as the lec- to our clients to advise,
turing attorneys had things right, they were at the guide, and direct them
same time so wrong! Their E&O message was very to purchase the cover-
clear; that in our litigious society, consistency and ages that they need for
documentation were in large measure the best their personal and busi-
defense to avoid E&O claims. However, I was trou- ness needs. Trust and by Robert Mackoul, CLU
bled after their seminar. Not by their repeated ham- confidence generates
mering of documentation and consistency, but more retention and referrals. How do we obtain referrals?
by how defensive in nature their presentation was It’s certainly not because we act like innocent
and how the courts viewed our role as agent and bystanders while the insured purchases his coverage,
brokers. and then reads his policy (that we’ve gotten to them
in a timely manner), so that the burden of terms,
Many of us have worked hard to obtain our profes- conditions, and exclusions is their problem.
sional degrees CIC, CPCU, CLU, & ChFC degrees.
We call ourselves insurance professionals, and we Louis P. DiCerbo II, a legend in the financial serv-
brand our agencies as “Trusted Choice.” Yet, based ices industry, used to say “no one does it better”!!
on a NY State court decision called the “Murphy Although he was talking about life and health agents
Decision,” we agents are viewed as nothing more in the general agency system, that phrase is applica-
then order takers. Here are the three key sentences ble to us independent agents. “Nobody does it bet-
of the “Murphy Decision”: ter then us!!” All of us can improve our systems, and
the way we do business. We do need to purchase the
1) The absence of a special relationship most up to date technology, and have highly trained
removes the agent’s duty to advise, guide and knowledgeable employees managing all the
or direct an insured’s coverage processes. However, make no mistake that, each us
2) The agent has a duty to procure coverage agents and brokers has a responsibility to our clients
specifically requested or to advise of an and prospects as advisors, that cannot be diminished.
inability to do so in a timely manner The Murphy Decision may be hailed by E&O attor-
3) The insured has a duty to read their policy neys as a great defensive tool in court, but ethically
and is therefore bound by the terms, con- our training, education and experience (and that
ditions, and exclusions. applies to our staffs) demands a much higher stan-
dard. After all, nobody does it better then us.
Well the “Murphy Decision” just proves that we as Nobody, and we need to remind ourselves, our
an industry have a real public relations problem!! We staffs, and the public of that regularly.

17
OUR NEW SEASON
IS STARTING! Visit our
TO ADVERTISE OR SPONSOR
Website!
AN UPCOMING MEETING,

CALL DAN PALMIERI AT
Go to
516-622-0030
OR email: tricountyagents.com
DFAP@aol.com

18
Trusted Choice ®

Summer Ad Blitz launched June 19
Trusted Choice® Month may be over, but that A complementary online ad campaign will begin
doesn’t mean we’re taking a break from branding July 17 and will extend through the end of
your agency as the smart way for consumers to August. Targeted Web sites and portals that will
buy insurance and financial services. Nothing run Trusted Choice® banner ads are www.aol.com,
could be further from the truth! www.msn.com and www.yahoo.com.
Later this month Trusted Choice® will launch a This expansive national advertising activity will
major, summer-long, national ad blitz that will increase visibility and brand recognition among
educate consumers about the value the brand the Trusted Choice® target audience: college-edu-
and your agency brings to them. This campaign cated adults ages 35-64 with household income
will run through August. of $75,000 or more.
And, just as significant for you, this ad blitz is Your agency should tie into this summertime
the perfect opportunity for your Trusted Choice® promotional campaign locally by running Trusted
agency to run a local tie-in advertising campaign Choice® tag-able ads in your community. Your
using the high-quality customizable ads provided local promotional activity will educate local con-
by the brand program. sumers about your agency's Trusted Choice®
The overall summer blitz will feature 180 ads status and position it as the trusted advisor
on nationwide TV and a 45-day Internet ad flight for their insurance needs. Your agency will also
on popular Web sites. The 30-second Trusted get double exposure by running the ads concur-
Choice® television ads begin airing June 19 and rent with or immediately before or after the
will run nationally through August 27, except for TV ad flights.
a one-week period the first full week of August. Trusted Choice® provides participating agencies
The targeted cable TV networks and dates for with free customizable print, radio, billboard and
each flight are: TV ads for use in their local marketing area.
Contact IIABNY to order these customizable ads
• Fox News—June 19 through July 9 to learn how to purchase broadcast and print
• CNN & Headline News—July 10 through advertising.
July 30 Don’t miss out; this is your best chance to
• The Weather Channel— August 7 through strike while the summer ad blitz is so hot!
August 27 Not yet part of Trusted Choice®? Again, contact
IIABNY now to join the consumer brand move-
The Fox News flight schedule will be posted ment that is sweeping the agency ranks.
online at www.TrustedChoice.com soon; the other For more information, contact Trusted Choice®
two network schedules will be posted shortly. Executive Director Jeff Myers at jeff.myers@iiaba.net.

Support Our Advertisers –
They Support Us !
19
20
Get Out That Homeowners Policy!
Unless they’ve submitted a claim recently, your client’s building materials are low
homeowners policy is probably in a drawer somewhere because most of the goods
with the premium paid for another year. Well, it’s time to were shipped to the devas-
tell them to dust it off and review it. Even though you try tated areas. Locally, this
to update their policy coverages every year, you are proba- caused the cost of materials
bly unaware of situations that need to be addressed. to rise.
Perhaps a letter from your agency needs to be sent to all Ask the insureds to
your homeowner clients – homeowners, condo and co-op review the dwelling amount by Stephen Folan
unit owners and renters. listed on their policies.
We all saw the devastation that Hurricane Katrina Remind them that this limit represents what it will cost to
brought to New Orleans. Hopefully, we will not see that replace their home - like kind and quality - including
type of destruction on Long Island, but we need to be debris removal for the damaged house, architect’s fees and
prepared. Most people don’t realize that almost every building permits. Renovations and repairs are usually more
homeowners policy on Long Island contains a “catastroph- costly than new construction. Believe it or not, reconstruc-
ic wind deductible” which is different from the regular tion costs for standard homes are approaching $200 per
deductible associated with a windstorm claim. If the dam- square foot in our area. If they have recently remodeled or
age was caused by a named hurricane, the deductible may put on an extension or deck, you need to know about it.
jump to 2% or 5% of the dwelling limit. In talking to If you insure a renter, or a co-op or condo unit owner,
insureds, they don’t fully understand the cat wind make sure that the personal property limit is adequate to
deductible. Some think it’s a percentage of the claim, not replace all their contents at today’s prices. Unit owners
the dwelling limit. Many don’t know the difference need to also check that the Additions and Alterations cov-
between a Class 1 hurricane and a Class 3 hurricane. The erage is enough to replace or repair any building items for
companies all have different triggers for this deductible. which they are responsible. This can include kitchen cabi-
Inform them of the hurricane deductible. If they do not nets, bathroom fixtures, tiling, carpeting, paneling, wallpa-
understand it, instruct them to call you. The hurricane per, lighting fixtures, built-in wall units, etc. Don’t forget
deductible may turn out to be the biggest hidden E&O about the debris removal for the damaged property, espe-
exposure agents have. cially if the unit is not on the ground level. The cost to get
Hurricane Katrina also showed that most Americans do garbage down from the tenth floor can be expensive.
not carry flood insurance on their homes, condo units or Finally, inquire if they operate a business out of the resi-
apartments. Since surface water or water that comes dence – either full-time, part-time or as a hobby. They may
through the foundation of the house is not covered by a be surprised to learn that many homeowners and renters
homeowners policy, a separate flood insurance policy is policies do not cover losses from business activities. Many
needed. The National Flood Insurance Program estimates people think that because they have homeowners insur-
that 25% of the flood claims processed occur outside of ance, anything that happens at their home is covered. This
high-risk flood areas. A Preferred Risk Policy is available is not true. Inventory stored in the garage, business
for these areas at a reduced rate. Remember, there is a 30- equipment stolen from a car, or liability from accidents
day waiting period before new flood policies become effec- that occur while in the course of their business may not be
tive. Don’t let your insureds wait until the hurricane is on covered by the homeowners policy. Have them call you to
the way! discuss In-Home Business coverage options.
Recent high-profile events such as Hurricanes Katrina, As you can see, there are many issues that pertain to
Rita and Wilma have brought national attention to the homeowners insurance of which insureds are unaware or
problem of underinsurance of homes and maintaining think their policy already covers. Although agents try to
proper insurance to value. According to Marshall & make sure our clients are covered properly, each of them
Swift/Boeckh, a construction information firm, 64% of has different needs. Put them on notice that there may be
homes were underinsured in 2003. That number has risen gaps and exclusions in their coverage, and ask them to call
because of the increase in the cost of construction materi- you if they need to review their policy. If you don’t, you
als after the hurricanes in the Gulf States and the wildfires better dust off your E&O policy. Also, make sure you
in California. Supplies of lumber, sheet rock and other have fresh batteries in your flashlight!

21
To advertise

or sponsor

call Pat Calvert

516-621-2209

22
23
24
Jerry Brunell Memorial Fishing Outing
Again this year, Downstate
will hold its annual Fishing Sponsored by
excursion on the
“Fishtale” boat departing
Downstate Insurance
from Captree Boat Basin. Assoc. Councils
Ticket price includes a full
Wednesday
day of fishing, breakfast, lunch,
beer, soda, prizes, September 13, 2006
bait & tackle, fish bags.

Place – Captree Boat Basin
Time – Departs 7:45 am. Returns 3:30 pm.

Directions – Southern State Parkway to
Exit 40, Robert Moses Causeway, take south 5
miles to Captree Boat Basin exit.
Please fill Footwear – Sneakers, dock siders, or
out and equivalent

send with Note – To donate fishing prizes and for more
your check information, call Martin Rosenthal at
516-599-1100, ext 155
payable to
Firm Name
Downstate Name
Address
Council
City State Zip
Return to:
Telephone
Martin Rosenthal
# Fishing @ $55 each = $
c/o NGL Group
Total Amount of enclosed check: $
112 Merrick Road
Use back of form for additional fishermen.
Lynbrook, NY 11563

25
AGENTS • PRODUCERS • BROKERS
“LET OUR OFFICE BE YOUR OFFICE” Support
SERVICE and/or PURCHASE
30 Major National & Regional Carriers
Competitive Commercial & Personal Lines Our Advertisers
Life, Accident & Health, Financial Services
Seasoned, Caring Management & Staff
Fully Automated • Applied TAM
Excellent Reputation & Track Record
•
Private Offices & Conference Rooms
Licensed in all States
Family Perpetuated Agency, Est. 1974 They Support Us !
THE B&G GROUP, INC.
(Bower & Glickman, Inc.)
Plainview, N.Y.
Ask For Richard or Evan Bower.
All information confidential
References Available Upon Request
516-576-0400 Fax 516-576-1177
EMail: rbower@thebggroup.com

DOWNSTATE AGENCY NETWORK, LLC
Move Your Income to the Next Level

DAN
Contact Arthur Anderson at 516.622.2571 FAX: 516.622.2771
aanderson@etreiber.com
aanderson@etreiber.com

DOWNSTATE AGENCY NETWORK, LLC
377 OAK STREET • 5TH FLOOR • GARDEN CITY, NY 11530
PHONE: 516.622.2571 • FAX 516.622.2771

26
Heard Around Town
USA Program Administrator’s – Several years ago little electrical heat to
IIABNY’s brokerage arm advised Big I agents and make the scent disburse.
brokers of a worker’s comp market which could be The fax I received was
placed through the brokerage arm – who deals as a forwarded and it reads,
General Agent for the members. The company is in part, that his brother’s
Clarendon and after a while they stopped paying house burned down to
commissions to the agents and brokers as well as the ashes. The insurance
override to the GA. There are still some agents and investigator sifted through By Joe Tunkel
brokers who have money due them. USA the ashes and had the cause
Administrator’s have basically gone out of business of the fire traced to the master bathroom. Beside
but has a part time staff responding to phone the normal things like a blow dryer, there was
messages. IIABNY won an arbitration settlement nothing exceptional. The investigator felt it would
against them but they have ignored it and IIABNY have to be “something that would disintegrate at
is still involved in legal proceedings with them. high temperatures. Then wife remembered she had
But what of the agents and brokers who had no a Glade Plug-in in the bathroom. The investigator
market and placed business based on the faith and felt this was the cause of the fire and said he has seen
belief that Clarendon was a viable market? more home fires started with the plug-in type room
According to one agent due past commissions was fresheners than anything else.He said the plastic is
given a new contact # for USA Administrator’s very thin. He said in every case there was nothing
recently. IIABNY instructed the agent to leave a left to prove it even existed. When he looked in the
message for “Kathy”. If he does not get his
wall plug, the 2 prongs left by the plug-in were still
commission payment resolved then contact the legal
in the wall plug.
secretary at Clarendon. This battle with Clarendon
The plug-in that these people had was one with a
has been going on for over 20 months and still
small night light built in it. They had noticed that
seems to be a long way from being resolved.
the light would dim and finally go out. A few hours
Did IIABNY know something was amiss at USA
later the light would be back on again. The
Administrator or at Clarendon and let the agents
investigator feels that the light dims as the unit heats
and brokers know about it? Should IIABNY have
been more active in the name of the agents and up and cools off rather than blow the bulb. Once it
brokers by pursuing regulatory as well as legal action is cooled, it would come back on. – that is a
against USA Administrator’s and Clarendon? warning sign. HOAX Busters said they have seen
Just because you are in a program endorsed by your some posting like this on the Internet. SC Johnson
national, state or local association does not mean who make Glade Plug-ins says all their Plug-in
you can pass over your obligation of due diligence. products are safe and will not cause fires. The Plug-
in products have been sold for more than 15 years
GEICO-Travelers partnership? – When GEICO and hundreds of millions of the products are being
writes your chient’s auto policy and they have their used safely. No one has contacted SC Johnson they
homeowners policy in Travelers, GEICO gives a say with this regard.
“companion credit” discount on their auto policy. Agent Jeff Koch asks if anyone was able to confirm
But if you write a new homeowners policy in the the electrical compliance to the wiring of the outlet,
Travelers with the auto in GEICO, there is no since a situation like this can occur when the wiring
discount for your client’s homeoawners policy. Is it is done wrong and the outlet is grounded
possible that GEICO filed with the Dept. of improperly or reverse current.
Insurance on their own, without the knowledge of We will continue to investigate and report further.
Travelers?
History is an account, mostly false, of events, mostly
“Air Freshener Causes Fires” – unimportant, which are brought about by rulers,
October 2004 – mostly knaves, and soldiers, mostly fools.
These are those plug-in air fresheners that generate a – Ambrose Bierce

27
Long Island Insurance Community 12th Annual Gala
The Premier Insurance Industry Event in the Metropolitan Area
September 21, 2006, 5:30 to 9 p.m.
Bourne Mansion, Oakdale, NY

ou
Y are cordially invited to the Long Island Insurance Community Gala, a very special event that brings the
Long Island Insurance Community together to give help and hope to Long Islanders who are less fortunate than ourselves.
The event honors industry and business leaders who demonstrate a commitment to the community by
improving the quality of life of their neighbors.

Honoring Sponsorship Opportunities
Platinum Sponsor $10,000
Travelers Gold Sponsor $7,500
Corporate Representatives Silver Sponsor $5,000
Lisa Tepper Bronze Sponsor $2,500
Regional Executive

Peter J. Brown Journal Ad
Regional Vice President Gold Page $1,500
Personal Lines
Silver Page $1,200
Ricky C. Jones Full Page $1,000
Field Vice President
Half Page $500
Claims Services
Quarter Page $300
Announcements $150

Tickets $250

For more information contact Lois Grant at 631.940.3746 or lgrant@unitedwayli.org.

U We wish to reserve tickets. Total $

U We wish to reserve a Sponsorship $
U We wish to reserve a(an) journal ad. Total $
Please make check payable to United Way of Long Island, 819 Grand Blvd., Deer Park, NY 11729, or
Charge my U VISA U MasterCard U AMEX Card No. Exp. Date / /
Signature
Name Title

Company Phone/Fax
Address E-mail

City, State, Zip Total Amount $
Solicited by Paid here Bill on
Contributions are tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law. The fair market value of the dinner is $101. A copy of our latest annual report may be obtained, upon request, from
United Way of Long Island, 819 Grand Boulevard, Deer Park, NY 11729 or from the New York State Attorney General Charities Bureau, 120 Broadway, New York, NY 10271.
A copy of our latest annual report is also available on our website: www.unitedwayli.org

28
TRICOUNTY IIAA
Service Directory
The vendors and companies listed below support our publication “Tri-Lines” and our membership
meetings. Please consider calling them next time you need service in these areas.

INSURANCE COS. Magna Carta Pryor Personnel Agency Budde French Cleaners, Inc.
& MARKETS Insurance Companies 147 Old Country Road 107-11 Metropolitan Ave.
1 Park Ave. Hicksville, NY 11801
The B&G Group, Inc. Forest Hills, NY 11375
New York, NY 10016 Tel:516-935-0100 Fax: 516-931-7842
(Bower & Glickman, Inc.) Tel:718-263-7474 Fax: 718-263-1545
Tel:212-591-9500 Fax: 212-591-9600
Email: ppryor1578@aol.com email: info@buddecleaners.com
Plainview, NY Lou Masucci
Patricia Pryor Bonica Bob Teichman, Ilan Yunger
Tel:516-576-0400 Fax: 516-576-1177
Morstan General Agency, Inc.
Email: rbower@thebggroup
P.O. Box 4500
ADJUSTERS FOR Milro Services, Inc.
Richard Bower
Manhasset, NY 11037-4500
THE INSURED
41 Hanse Ave.
Tel:516-488-5355 Fax:516-437-5050
New York Adjustment Bureau
Commercial Mutual Insurance Co. Freeport, NY 11753
Al Eskanazy, Bob Birner 66-19 Woodhaven Blvd.
15 Joys Lane Tel:516-379-6100 Fax: 516-379-6299
Rego Park, NY 11374
Kingston, NY 12401 NIF Group Len Minervini
Tel:718-275-2700 Fax: 718-275-2978
Tel:631-351-0302 30 Park Ave.
Steve Libel Restoration Specialists/Crystal
Manhasset, NY 11030
Fax: 845-331-8141
Tel:516-365-7440 Fax: 516-496-7356 LIFE & HEALTH 450 Westbury Rd.
Stan Landberg, CPCU, Marketing Dir.
Email: nwilliams@nifgroup.com INSURANCE Carle Place, NY 11514

Com Net Solutions Michael Orlando, Nancy Williams D.M.C. Executive Planning Tel:516-333-0088 Fax:516-997-4519

Combined Underwriting Agency Network North Sea Insurance Co. 201 Northwest Drive, Suite 10 R.G. Klaber, Helen Rosenbaum

14 Front Street 50 W. Hawthorne Avenue Farmingdale, NY 11735
ServPro of Hicksville-Plainview,
Hempstead, NY 11550-3645 Valley Stream, NY 11582 Tel:516-753-5433 Fax: 516-753-5440
Port Jefferson and Manhattan
Tel:888-376-5884 Fax: 888-726-6638 Tel: 516-825-2800 Fax: 516-825-1947 Dennis Cataldo, CLU, ChFC
525 Route 112
Lou Narciso E-mail: rfb@north-sea-ins.com Millennium Brokerage, Corp.
Robert Boyle, CPCU Port Jefferson Station, NY 11776
1717-38 Veterans Memorial Hwy.
Downstate Agency Network, LLC Tel:516-733-1800 Fax: 516-433-5511
Program Brokerage Corp. Islandia, NY 11749
377 Oak Street Email: servprohp@aol.com
100 Sunnyside Blvd. Tel:800-607-6027 Fax: 631-582-9358
Garden City, NY 11530 Woodbury, NY 11797 Conrad Braun
John W. Bohlman, Jr.
Tel:516-622-2571 Fax: 516-622-2771 Tel:516-496-1346 Fax: 516-496-1359
PREMIUM Trade Winds
Email: aanderson@etreiber.com Gary Shapiro, Derek Donnelly
FINANCING Environmental Restoration
Arthur Anderson SMK Administrative Agency, LLC 100 Sweeneydale Avenue
118-35 Queens Blvd.
The Premins Company, Inc.
Excise Bond Underwriters Bayshore, NY 11706
Forest Hills, NY 11375 1407 Avenue M
15 Maiden Lane, Suite 800 Brooklyn, NY 11230 Tel: 631-435-8900 Fax: 631-435-4337
Tel:718-544-1700 Fax: 718-268-7067
New York, NY 10038 Tel:516-694-4450 Fax: 718-376-8330 E-mail: eschildt@twer.com
Email: Jwallace@SMKlein.com
Tel:212-363-2950 Fax: 212-425-2539 Jim Katoff, Director of Marketing Pete Bertran
Jack Wallace
John L. Comeau
INSURANCE RESTORATION & Up-Rite Plus
Lancer Insurance Company & SERVICES CLEANING SERVICES 24 Hr. Emergency Service
D.C. White Agency Alexander Wall Corporation 130-C N. Belle Meade Road
The Mines Press
370 West Park Ave. 60 Raynor Ave. East Setauket, NY 11733
231 Croton Ave.
Long Beach, NY 11561 Cortlandt Manor, NY 10567 Ronkonkoma, NY 11779 Tel: 631-246-9816 Fax: 631-689-1732
Tel:516-431-9191 Fax: 516-431-3037 Tel:800-447-6788 Fax: 914-788-1698 Tel:631-471-3131 Fax: 631-471-2905 E-mail: aimperato@uprite.com
David Isenberg Cynthia Mines Gary Alexander - Ext. 121 Anthony Imperato
29
Log on

to our website

tricountyagents.com

f o r m o re

information

30
IIABNY Regional Director’s Report
To
Tri-County Association of Independent Agents
May 1, 2006
1. The Regional Homeowners Market remains a 3. NYC DOT Requirements. IIABNY met on
hot topic with IIABNY and the State April 18th with representatives of NYC
Legislature. Currently, a bill has been intro- Dept. of Transportation over their require-
duced by Sen. Ken LaValle that would limit ment that certificates of insurance for road
insurers’ ability to 4% in each rating territory. and sidewalk contractors be accompanied
This would considerably slow down the pace by a notarized statement from from the
of non-renewals. This bill also includes provi- agent or broker as to their validity. Agents
sion for a permanent NYPIUA. But the chief are advised not to honor this requirement,
stumbling block for that in the past has mainly for E&O reasons. IIABNY officials
apparently been in the Senate where the lead- have registered our concern over this issue
ership has used the Assembly’s sluggishness as well as the obsolete certificate form
on auto insurance reform as a reason not to they prescribe and Jim Keidel, Esq. of
pass a previous permanency bill. We hope Lustig & Brown, LLP have sent a letter to
that the Senate will see the light this time and the NYC DOT on behalf of IIABNY and
pass this bill intact, which will help both par- other trade associations who has joined
ties. our effort: PIA, the Brokers Association
and ELANY. Another meeting is scheduled
2. Zurich Broker Compensation Disclosures. with NYC DOT on Wednesday, May 3rd.
After its settlement with several states
over the broker compensation issue, 4. Automobile Accident Reporting Threshold.
Zurich has decided to use the agreements Assemblyman Morelle sponsored the origi-
nal (transportation) bill to increase the
reached with those states over broker
threshold for reporting motor vehicle acci-
compensation notices universally on all its
dents to the DMV from $1,000 to $2,000.
policies in all states including NY, where a
The Assembly passed it in January, but the
separate and acceptable agreement on this
companion bill died in the Senate from
issue has been reached. Their reasoning
lack of action. The Assembly re-introduced
was to have an efficient and consistent
and passed it again in February. Senator
method of notification. IIABNY officials met
Skelos has introduced it again in the
with Zurich officials to register our opposi-
Senate where it awaits action. If passed
tion to this decision. We fear it will re-
not only would the reporting threshold
ignite Insurance Department interest in a
change, so would the surcharge level in
broker compensation regulation thereby
the NY Safe Driver Insurance Plan since
adding more work for all agents and bro- that automatically conforms to the DMV
kers, not to mention phone calls and reporting threshold.
questions to answer. Although Zurich has
not budged from its position, it has Respectfully submitted,
agreed to work with IIABNY to make this Russell C. Vollmer
effort reasonable for producers. IIABNY Met.-Suburban Regional Director

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