HIN 2020-2021 1st Edition

2020-2021 1st Edition

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Legislative Committee Spotlight W H AT D O W E D O ?

• E STA B L I S H P R OT E C T I O N S FO R B U S I N E S S E S F R O M F R I VO LO U S L AW SUITS STEMMING FROM COVID-19 CLAIMS • E N AC T R E FO R M S TO P R OT E C T AG A I N ST I N F L AT E D CO M M E R C I A L AU TO L I T I G AT I O N B E I N G P U S H E D BY T R I A L L AW Y E R S • E N D T H E A B I L I T Y TO AVO I D PAY M E N T O F C L A I M S BY R E F U S I N G TO CO O P E R AT E W I T H YO U R I N S U R E R , A N D • R EV I S E H OW R E P L AC E M E N T COST I S PA I D O N A H O M E OW N E R S C L A I M

WELCOME! With fearless leader, Mickie Comiskey, and IIAH’s Legislative Committee at the helm, Houston was able to raise over $50,000 for IMPACT this year.

This was no small feat during such challenging times in which the campaign seemed to drag on for months. We are so grateful for their tenacity and to you for your generous contributions.

You pushed IIAT over its goal, raising a total of $250,000 across Texas!

As we turn the page on 2020 and prepare for the state’s 87th Texas Legislative Session to begin in January, we must not forget that it will be important for us to double down on our fundraising efforts in 2021.

If you have any questions regarding the upcoming session and/or IIAT’s legislative agenda, please do not hesitate to reach out to Lee Loftis, Governmental Affairs Director, at 512.493.2418, or lloftis@iiat.org.

MEETING DETAILS

WHEN: As needed @ 8:30 AM WHERE: Virtual Zoom Meetings EMAIL: kdean@deandraper.com 3

Features

Table of C

03 Comitte

07

Executive Director’s Message

14

President’s Message

18-19

IIAH Holiday Celebration

29-30

Have you Heard?

05 Events & 12-13 16 Membe

17 Affiliate

21 Coverag

22 Its t

26 E

27 Legislat 29-30 Have

32-33 In M

34 Houston Insura

37 Who has t

Specia

38 Busines

38 Advert

4

Contents

ee Spotlight

& Education CPCU r Spotlight

e Spotlight

ge Spotlight

the Law

E &O

tive Update you Heard?

Memoriam

ance Professionals

the Last Word

al Items

ss Card Ads

tise Index

Upcoming events 25th Annual Charity Chili Cook Off January 30, 2021 Houston Insurance Day 2021 In-Person Trade Show February 24, 2021 Virtual Trade Show February 25-26, 2021 29th Annual Charity Benefit Crawfish Boil March 27, 2021 2nd Annual Fishin’ with A Mission April 8-10, 2021

Education Coming Soon!

Check our website for updates www.iiah.org

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Dear Friends, As we come to the end of another year, I would like to reflect on 2020.

2020 started out on a great note. The 24th Annual Charity Chili Cookoff saw you raise more money for charity than in previous years! What else can I say about Houston Insurance Day in February. I have had many, many people tell me it was the BEST ever. Well done to all parties involved. It

December 9 | 2020

takes a village to pull off the best Insurance Industry trade show!!

Then came March and this thing called COVID-19!

It shut things down for a couple of months, but our association would not be stopped! Our annual Golf outing moved from May to July, but it was very well attended and the first event back for most of us!

Our Clay Shoot in August also brought out quite a few folks to network and catch up with friends and clients.

We hope that with the vaccine now being distributed, that we will be back to “normal�

sometime in 2021. We are planning now for the 25th Annual Chili Cookoff in January and both an In-person and Virtual HID in February!

We at the IIAH, Renee, Ayla and myself are very, very thankful for all of our members! From the Executive Committee, to our Board of Directors, to all our committee members and all that each of you do to make the IIAH the best and biggest individual city Insurance Association in the USA! I cannot thank you enough

for all your time, energy, enthusiasm, talents, suggestions and monetary contributions. We could not do it without you, and we are here to serve you, so if you have any suggestions or ideas about how we can be better, please let us know! Renee, Ayla and I could not think of a better group of people to be associated with!

Here is to wishing you Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year!!

David Wuthrich IIAH Executive Director 7

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Executive Committee Chris Goff,CIC, LUTCF President Jim Drew,ARM, CIC, CRM President Elect Jason Nybakken Vice President Adam Harris Treasurer David Wuthrich Executive Director Stuart Ray Immediate Past President

Board of Directors Holly Bozant Tom Fitzpatrick Elizabeth Kirby Jason Knecht Tony May Ryan Moorehead Wes Weatherred Darrell Wolfe

Our Staff Executive Director David Wuthrich Sr. Managing Director Renee Stager Managing Director Ayla Benavides Communications Sandra Greer

Office 7700 San Felipe, Suite 310 Houston, Texas 77063 P: 832. 769.4666 F: 832.324.3503 www.iiah.org

New Members New Agency Members

Afloat Insurance Agency LLC Sena Insurance Group

Annual Sponsors Titanium Elite Sponsors Imperial PFS Burns & Wilcox, Ltd. CRC Group

Platinum Partners for Excellence Lighthouse Property Insurance Corporation RT Specialty Texas Mutual Insurance Company UFG Insurance WSG Specialty Underwriters

Gold Patron Sponsors

AFS/IBEX A Division of MetaBank Blackmon Mooring of Houston Chubb CNA Insurance Companies Delta General Agency Skyward Specialty Insurance WRIGHT Flood

Company Onstage Serves the community by offering professional quality performances of contemporary and classic theater for children and adults in an intimate setting at affordable prices. COS provides the opportunity for everyone in the community to participate in theater by attending performances, taking classes, or volunteering for all phases of production. COS is a non-profit 501(c)(3); it operates as a community theater with a season of ten productions for children and adults each year.

Since its founding in 1978, COS has had the following organizational purposes and goals:

Serving our Community • To provide the community with quality theatrical productions at an affordable price.

• To encourage participation in theater by the community.

• To increase awareness and appreciation of the theatrical arts.

• To provide citizens of all ages and backgrounds with an opportunity to develop theatrical talents by participation in acting and other technical aspects of theater.

Learn More | About Company Onstage

One of this year’s Benefactors

Committees of 2020-2021

Committees

are what breaths life into our association. With 9 active committees there are at least 100 people actively serving the association with their unique skills. We are always looking to put your skills to use to further drive the association’s mission forward. No matter what your skills are, or what you are passionate about, we likely have something of interest to you. The end result is to better the industry we all serve. Join a Committee today and become part of the mission.

Charitable Projects/ Fire Prevention Chairman: Sarah Beck Vice Chairman: Tasha Stolte Education, I.T., CE Chairman: Katrina Masek Vice Chairman: Michelle Dennis Houston Insurance Day Chairman: Ashley Newton Vice Chairman: Carmela Cancino Legislative Chairman: Kyle Dean IMPACT Chairman: Mickie Comiskey Vice Chairman: Lea Brimberry Membership Chairman: Liz Brock Recreation Chairman: Amber Stevenson Vice Chairman: Carisa Cole Young Insurnace Professionals Chairman: Derek Pierce Vice Chairman: Grant Pierce PR/Media Matters Chairman: Scott West Social Media Chairman: Daphne Clark Vice Chariman: Liz Brock Houston Insurance News Chairman: Amy Weimer Vice Chairman: Daphne Clark

CPCU NEWS December 2020 – January 2021 The Houston CPCU Society conducted very wellattended monthly Zoom education meetings throughout 2020 and COVID-19. If you are a Houston-area CPCU or designee, interested in becoming a member of the Houston Society, wish to volunteer or learn more about our educational programs and courses, community outreach, and other activities, please contact Emily Haluska at ehaluska@CapstoneAssociated.com

New Designes Due to the pandemic, the 2020 Houston Chapter Conferment ceremony has been postponed until 2021 and will be honoring its 2020 New Designees by featuring them and their journey through CPCU and careers, in “New Designee Spotlight” in CPCU Newsletters over the year.

UPCOMING EVENTS Webinar | Safelite Auto Glass

Tuesday, January 19, 2021 11:00 AM Randall Hendrick, Regional Agency Manager with Safelite Auto Glass will present a learning session on replacement of windshields with imbedded safety features, their issues on liability, deductibles, endorsements and other randall.hendrick@safelite.com | 832-368-8258

RIMS Webinars Webinars offered by RIMS are also open to Houston CPCU Society members. Thanks to Houston RIMS for this opportunity!

Go to: https://www.houstonrims.org to confirm dates, times, presenters and register.

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2020 NEW DESIGNEE SPOTLIGHT Vicki Treadville, CPCU, AU, AINS, CRIS

Associate Underwriter, Energy at Crum & Forster

Vicki earned a B.A. in English and Literature at the University of Houston and, while working for a law firm, became a certified paralegal, which led to over a decade working with a court reporting firm. In 2014, she decided to change careers.

Her mother, Frances Simien, Houston’s Operations Quality Assurance Coordinator for specialty and standard commercial lines insurance company Crum & Forster, suggested she consider applying for an Underwriting Assistant position. Vicki’s new employers found she was a willing and quick learner when she earned IRMI’s Construction Risk Insurance Specialist (CRIS) designation in 2016, followed by The Institutes’ Associate in General Insurance (AINS) and Associate in Commercial Underwriting (AU) designations leading to a promotion to Underwriting Technical Assistant.

She found her court reporting and paralegal skills were useful in reviewing and understanding insurance contracts.

Another promotion to Associate Underwriter followed, during which she decided to earn the CPCU designation and embarked on a plan to complete one course each quarter. “Contrary to popular belief, insurance is not boring,” Vicki asserts. “The most difficult part of my CPCU preparation was time management - juggling family and work – so as to avoid binge-learning and rushing toward the end to complete the course and not really learning the material in a way to retain and be able use it,” she said. “The Financial course was the one I struggled with most – no surprise for an English and Literature major!”

Her final course, an elective in Auto Claims, was completed during the onset of the COVID-19 global pandemic. She was grateful that The Institutes offered the exam virtually, but worried that her computer would lose connectivity and forbade her children from being on their computers during the two-hour exam. She successfully completed all courses and requirements to earn the CPCU designation and became one of sixteen New Designees for the Houston Chapter in 2020.

“The Institutes texts continue to be helpful to me and my colleagues to analyze and understand day-today issues that arise involving products, coverages, and risks,” she says. “I’m looking forward to becoming involved with the chapter, including its leadership in the future.”

2020 NEW DESIGNEE SPOTLIGHT

Vicki’s husband, Alex Treadville, owns a logistic company, and they share four children, ages 7-12 years.

Mark Donahoe, CIC, CPCU, CRIS

Underwriting Supervisor Gulf Coast Regional Office UFG

Mark Donahoe, a 25-year veteran insurance professional, was born in St. Louis and graduated from Missouri State University in 1994. That July, he accepted a position with General Accident Insurance and still in his early 20’s, started taking CPCU courses. He married and started a young family, and after completing four courses, found he lacked the time to complete the entire eight course series.

During that time, General Accident Insurance merged with several different entities, ultimately being acquired

by Liberty Mutual in 2002. At that time, he chose to pursue his career elsewhere, and shortly thereafter joined United Fire Group (UFG), a nationally recognized multibillion dollar insurance company, working at the company headquarters in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

A self-proclaimed urbanite and uninspired in the small mid-western hamlet, he requested a reassignment within the company to an urban area, and in 2004 accepted a position in UFG’s Galveston office. He became a Texan.

In 2007, he completed The Institutes’ Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation and in 2016 earned IRMI’s Construction Risk and Insurance Specialist (CRIS) certification. In 2018, after a 12-15-year hiatus, he decided to complete the remaining four courses of the CPCU designation, taking one to two courses each year. “The earlier course exams were all essay questions – very brutal,” he stated, “but by the time I revisited the program nearly two decades later, the format had been changed to all multiple-choice exams – but very tricky.”

He completed the coursework and became a CPCU New Designee in 2020.

Of his 16-years as an underwriting supervisor, he says, “I love being a supervisor and mentor at a great company that really cares about developing its employees. Continuing education is the lifeblood of the industry. Constantly learning is important because the business is ever-changing and evolving. If you do not improve yourself, you’ll be left behind.” In addition to his employees, he has hired and mentored several interns and graduates from the University of Houston Downtown’s Insurance and Risk Management program.

Mark is a dedicated family man, and most of his recreational time is spent with his wife, Lilly, who is a Project Estimator for Dow Chemical, and three children, ages 20, 17 and 15.

HOUSTON CHAPTER BOARD OF DIRECTORS Due to the COVID-19 global pandemic, officers and committee chairs were asked to continue to serve through 2021. The 2021 board and committee chair are as follows: PRESIDENT Judith Smalls, CPCU, CIFI, AIC PRESIDENT ELECT Kevin Boykin, CPCU SECRETARY Connie Gilliland, CPCU, AIC, AIS TREASURER Melvinn Brown, CPCU, ARM, AIC, API, AIS, ACS PAST PRESIDENT Brandon Yarborough, CPCU, AIC, AIP, AINS, AIM DIRECTORS AT LARGE Noah Klein, CPCU, AMIM Terrence Steele, CPCU, AIC

COMMITTEE CHAIRS CONFERMENT Kevin Boykin, CPCU EDUCATION Mary Sutter, CPCU, ARM, AAI, AIS, AINS GOOD WORKS Jin Na, CPCU MEMBERSHIP Emily Haluska, MBA, CPCU, ARe DESIGNEES Michelle Dyer, CPCU PUBLICITY Wendall Braniff, JD SOCIAL MEDIA Andrew Rausch, CPCU, ARM, AIC WEBMASTER Teri Pruett, CPCU, AU, API, AINS, ANFI

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President’s Message

Goodbye 2020 Happy New Year IIAH! I am going to spare you the deep reflection and cliche “New Beginnings” message and get right down to the nitty gritty here.

Goodbye 2020!!! You have been interesting and a challenge but we are all ready for the New Year and anxious to chart a new course for prosperity and success in 2021.

Christopher Goff President 2020-2021 cgoff@harco-ins.com 713.800.2256

IIAH is excited for the New Year and we will continue to serve our membership with relevant and valuable opportunities for growth, education and giving back as we strive to become better stewards of our great industry. Although many of our events will look different, they still have the same goal and we look forward to your participation over the coming year.

Thank you for your continued support of our association and I wish you and yours blessings and a great New Year.

Chris Goff, CIC, LUTCF President IIAH

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Member Spotlight

Afloat Insurance Agency Afloat Insurance is a niche Houston based agency focused on residential and commercial flood policies throughout Texas.

Founding Owner Andrea Kawaja is a native Houstonian who has seen the devastating effects of flooding over the last 20 years.

Before opening Afloat, Andrea was a multi-line P&C agent for 17 years at a large national company in an area considered ground zero for catastrophic severe and repetitive flooding: Bellaire, Meyerland, Westbury, Southwest Houston, and beyond. She therefore served a book of business with clients who were the most affected by floods. They have unique underwriting issues that the average agent has never encountered. After each flood, Andrea helped hundreds of families through the claims process.

To learn more contact | Andrea Kawaja Phone: (713)-540-8778 Email: andrea@StayAfloatTexas.com Learn More | @StayAfloatTexas

After the record breaking damage Hurricane Harvey caused, she was shocked to learn that only 20% of the flooded structures were insured.

This was after other previous large scale floods of Tropical Storm Allison 2001, Memorial Day 2015, Halloween 2015, and Tax Day 2016.

Afloat was formed for three reasons: 1) to protect property owners from the significant risks of flooding; 2) to provide unique experience and skills to property owners based in high risk zones; and 3) to correct misinformation and provide much needed riskeducation about who is at risk, the costs of such insurance, what constitutes a flood zone, and where the risks are

greatest. Simply put, Houston is a flood zone. Flooding can happen anywhere at any time.

Andrea is a registered NFIP Direct agent and was previously a WYO agent. In 2009, the area she served experienced a map change from X zone to AE zone.

She spent the next year working policy conversions, dealing with map changes and rating high risk policies.

Now through Afloat she works directly with NFIP underwriters to quote and rate policies properly. Afloat has garnered a reputation for top notch customer service, attention to detail, and the ability to review policies to save clients money.

People often ask, “how can Afloat Insurance save them money if all NFIP policies are the same”? The answer is simple. Afloat doesn’t offer better rates. Afloat brings the knowledge that each property is unique in its rating factors and works to account for them all to the client’s benefit.

Afloat Insurance plans to focus solely on flood insurance, and therefore welcomes the opportunity to partner with P&C agents whose clients need flood insurance protection.

Affiliate Spotlight

Columbia Insurance Group Founded as a regional carrier in 1874, Columbia Insurance Group is an admitted super-regional commercial multi-line carrier based in Columbia, MO, with agency partners across 15 states. Our Texas roots run deep. In 2008 Columbia purchased Association Casualty Ins. Co., whose origin goes back to the 1980’s, and is still one of Columbia’s writing companies today.

Columbia’s Austin Regional office offers in house loss control, local field claims adjusters and examiners, and local Underwriting tailored specifically for the needs of our territory. As a Mutual company we offer a steady underwriting approach. We can respond directly to market trends, and we will provide superior customer service and prompt claims handling to you. One call to our dedicated claims staff starts the process, including quick contact, a thorough investigation, and a speedy, fair claims resolution. Our 96% claims satisfaction rate says it all.

Columbia is committed to the Independent Agency channel and we offer superior compensation and recognition programs. We’ve built strong relationships with agency partners who work with us to give policyholders exceptional, personalized service. It’s our mission to build enduring relationships with our Agents and Policyholders by providing exceptional service and value. We take a personal approach to this business and it is Columbia’s vision to become the most valuable commercial insurer in our marketplace.

Being a mutual company starts with doing the right thing. Because we don’t have shareholders, we can better focus on changing needs, which ultimately gives Independent Agents greater confidence knowing we’ll keep our promises when you need us most.

Columbia Insurance Group is committed to serving the Greater Houston community.

To learn more contact | Joshua vonFrisch Phone: (512) 673-2944 Email: jvonfrisch@colinsgrp.com Learn More | www.colinsgrp.com 17

Holiday Celebration Our Holiday Celebration on December 16, 2020 at Kirby Icehouse Memorial was one for the books. IIAH was so excited to see everyone and celebrate the holidays together safely. Drinks, tacos, and holiday cookies were enjoyed by all! It was so wonderful to get together one last time before we can finally move forward to a new year in 2021. Thank you to everyone for your generous donations for the Houston Food Bank!

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a time to be in fellowship We received an abundance of canned goods/non-perrishables from our guest. The food bank will be so greatful for all the donations during this holiday season.

Thank you to our Sponsors McClelland & Hine, Inc. – Houston Independent Insurance Agents of Texas NFIB Texas Mutual Insurance Company Utica National Insurance Group This event wouldn’t be possible without you! We look forward to seeing everyone next year, Happy Holidays!

Let’s Celebrate 19

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TWIA LAUNCHES NEW ONLINE POLICYHOLDER PAYMENT OPTIONS Starting November 19, policyholders will be able to pay TWIA policy premiums online. They will have the option to pay the full amount due all at once or split into two installments. The temporary two payment option implemented in response to COVID-19 will end on November 1 and will be replaced by this new installment option.

Coverage Spotlight vendor fees may apply.

Echeck: Policyholders will be able to pay for their policy online with an electronic check.

Installments: Policyholders will be able to pay for their policy in two installments.

Installments are available online, by mail, and through their agent. They can pay 50% With online payments, policyholders will or more at the time the policy is issued or be able to get instant confirmation their renewed and pay the remaining balance payment has been received. These payments within four months. will also be applied to their policy faster than mailing in a check. TWIA will use the date on Note: The temporary two-payment option the confirmation as the payment received implemented in response to COVID-19 date. ended on November 1 and will be replaced by this new installment option.

What are the benefits?

With online payments, policyholders will be able to get instant confirmation TWIA has received their payment. That means less wondering for them and fewer calls for you.

Online payments will also be applied to their policy faster than payments received in the form of a check.

What are the new online policyholder payment options?

Credit Cards: Policyholders will be able to pay for their policy online with their Visa, Mas tercard, or Discover credit card. Debit cards and ATM cards may also be used. Third-party

What’s not changing?

TWIA’s other standard payment options are not changing. Policyholders can still pay TWIA through their agent or by mail. The new online and installment options are additional options.

Contact Us Email | agentservices@twia.org Phone | (800) 788-8247

TWIA will continue to keep you informed about these changes. If you have any questions or concerns, TWIA’s Agent Services team is here to help.

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It’s The Law INSURED’S COVID-19 RELATED CLAIM OF NEGLIGENCE AGAINST BROKER IS NOT RIPE, MAGISTRATE JUDGE RECOMMENDS DISMISSAL OF THE CLAIM AND DENIAL OF REMAND TO STATE COURTOF REMAND TO STATE COURT November 12, 2020 Last week, the Magistrate Judge for the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas concluded that the insured’s claim of negligence against his insurance broker was not ripe, and recommended dismissal of the claim and denial of remand. In Terry Black’s Barbecue, LLC v. State Automobile Mutual Ins. Co., No. 1:20-CV-665-RP, 2020 WL 6537230 (W.D. Texas [Austin Division], Nov. 5, 2020), Plaintiffs Terry Black’s Barbecue, LLC and Terry Black’s Barbecue Dallas, LLC (“Terry Black’s BBQ”), Texas limited liability companies that own and operate restaurants in Austin and Dallas, filed suit in state court against their insurer, State Automobile Mutual Insurance Company (“State Auto”), an Ohio corporation, and the insurance broker who sold Terry Black’s BBQ the policies, a Texas citizen.

Terry Black’s BBQ alleged that the shut-down orders issued in connection with COVID-19 forced them to cease their full service operations, resulting in business interruption and loss of business income, and that such losses were

covered under their policies with State Auto. Terry Black’s BBQ asserted contractual and extra-contractual causes of action against State Auto. Terry Black’s BBQ asserted a claim of negligence against the broker, alleging that if it was determined that the policies did not cover business income loss due to the COVID-19 shut-downs, then the broker was negligent in failing to recommend or procure such coverage.

In response to the suit, State Auto filed a notice of removal based on diversity jurisdiction.

Terry Black’s BBQ subsequently sought remand, arguing that complete diversity did not exist because both the broker and Terry Black’s BBQ were citizens of Texas. In support of removal, State Auto contended that the court should ignore the nondiverse citizenship of the broker because (1) Terry Black’s BBQ’s negligence claim against the broker was not ripe, and (2) Texas law does not recognize a general duty of insurance agents to obtain coverage or ensure that such coverage is adequate.

The Magistrate Judge for the Western District agreed with State Auto and recommended that the negligence claim against the broker be dismissed

and that Terry Black’s BBQ’s motion to remand be denied.

Noting that a claim is not ripe for review if “it rests upon contingent future events that may not occur as anticipated or not occur at all”, the court concluded that the negligence claim was not ripe. The court reasoned that the “viability of [the] negligence claim against [the broker] was entirely contingent on the resolution of [the] claims against State Auto.” That is, the broker could be liable for negligence only if a court finds that the policies do not provide coverage for business income loss due to COVID-19 shut-downs.

Because the court concluded that the claim of negligence was not ripe, it did not reach State Auto’s argument that the broker did not have a duty to obtain coverage or ensure that such coverage was adequate.

Editor’s note: MDJW had the privilege of representing State Automobile Mutual Insurance Company in this matter and we take this opportunity to congratulate them, along with our attorneys Christopher Martin, Melinda Burke, and Clinton Wolbert, in securing this victory.

Learn More | https://www.mdjwlaw.com/

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RICH GERGASKO President/CEO Texas Mutual Insurance Company

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2020 told us everything we needed to know about our agents.

2020 was a year filled with challenges — and you were more than up to the task.

In a time when your clients faced uncertainty and hardship, you proved to be a steady, trusted source of information, guidance and solutions. All of us at Texas Mutual are profoundly grateful for our agents and the contributions you make to our company.

Because of you, we’re able to provide our customers with warm, caring and consistently exceptional service, and we’re honored to have you as a partner.

THANK YOU for doing so much to make a safer, stronger Texas and for giving us every reason to look forward to a healthy and prosperous 2021.

(800) 859-5995

H

texasmutual.com 25

Preparing for Your E&O Renewal During COVID-19

November 19, 2020 As you might expect, insurance carriers who provide Insurance Agent’s E&O are adapting to the pandemic in various ways.

Some are making efforts to educate their insured agencies by reminding them of proper claims handling procedures and best practices for avoiding E&O claims. Others are adding specific endorsements designed to exclude E&O coverage for claims arising from Covid-19 exposures. And some E&O carriers are exiting the Agent’s E&O marketplace altogether.

How should an agent protect the agency’s E&O program?

The primary way is to prepare for your next E&O renewal well in advance.

Complete your renewal application and send it to your provider as early as possible….60 days in advance would be a good goal.

Review your procedures manual for compliance with best practices.

Communicate with your staff about the importance of proper claims handling.

IIAH Legislative Committee

by Thomas M. Braniff, JD, CPCU

Texas Legislative Session The 2021 Session of the Texas Legislature is scheduled to begin in early January. With all the uncertainty caused by the Coronavirus, there are questions regarding how they will meet, and the amount of access the general public and industry representatives will have to meet with our elected officials. One thing is sure…it will not be business as usual.

It is likely that legislators will seek to address fewer issues than normal, and leave all but absolutely necessary matters to be handled in the next Session.

Potential insurance issues that may arise Modifying How Replacement Cost Coverage Is Paid Under Property Policies. Currently, insurance companies generally pay first-party property losses by paying the insured the depreciated value, and later paying the replacement cost after the insured proves that the property has been repaired or replaced. This often requires the insured to dip into their own savings or borrow money from a bank in order to repair or replace the damaged property. This can result in delaying repairs or not doing them at all. One recommendation is to require the insurance company to pay 80% of replacement cost, with a 20% holdback. This would ease the burden on the insured, who actually paid additional premium for replacement cost coverage, in the first place.

Commercial Auto Litigation Crisis. There will be a strong initiative on the part of automobile insurance carriers to enact reforms to protect against the onslaught of greatly increased commercial auto litigation. Insurors have encountered increased litigation and inflated jury awards far in excess of prior years, which has resulted in a shortage of availability of commercial auto insurance, along with significantly increased premiums.

Coronavirus Protections. We can expect there to be a push by the entire business community to enact legislation to protect businesses from frivolous liability lawsuits stemming from Coronavirus claims by employees and customers.

Insurers Avoiding Claim Payments. There is talk of legislation to end the ability of insurance companies to avoid payment of third party claims by asserting their insured is refusing to cooperate with the insurer. The concern is certain unscrupulous carriers may discourage their insureds from cooperating with them; thus allowing the insurer to deny the claim. One idea that has been suggested is to enact a law that an insurer, that asserts their insured is not cooperating in the claim settlement process, be required to send the insured a notice of cancellation of the policy for lack of cooperation.

It will be interesting to see how things get done (or not get done) in this odd-ball Session.

Legislative Update

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Have you Heard?

“January 7th will be Crystal Cavazos’ two year anniversary with Craig & Leicht – time flies when you’re having fun!”

Congratulations Crystal! Cheers to many more years with Craig & Leicht.

Amy Weimer is celebrating 20 Years with Hotchkiss Insurance Agency- “Its been a Wonderful Trip” -Amy Congratulations Amy!!

What an incredible milestone. We wish you many more wonderful years to come!

Have you Heard?

Our Beloved Rose Perez got Married!

Rose began her insurance career working for a direct writer where she learned insurance basics as well as handling customer service with insureds which laid the groundwork for her future in the insurance industry.

She moved to the E& S side of the business starting with wholesaler Myron F Steves as a casualty underwriter.

It was there she honed her skills as an underwriter/broker and helped train a number of underwriters during her tenure. She went on to work for several wholesalers in Houston and today is branch manager for USG opening their office in Houston in 2012 and growing it into a sizable shop.

Rose has served on numerous IIAH committees as well as organized many successful charitable events over the years. She has also been active in TSLA serving on many committees and was selected to be on their Board of Directors for the past 3 years.

Over the years she has taught a number of classes to agents and is well respected by her peers. Rose is the mother of 3 awesome boys and recently married the love of her life Bob and is now embarking on an exciting new chapter in her life.

In Memoriam

Lawrence Donald “Laurie” Daniels Sr. passed away Sunday, November 15, 2020 at his home in Houston, surrounded by his family.

Laurie was born September 25, 1939 in the Panama Canal Zone to Howard and Eleanor Daniels. He was met with open arms by his parents, 2 brothers and sister who he has waited so long to reunite with. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Nan Daniels; children, Debbie Daniels Hubbard, Diane “Dee” Simper & Husband James, Darby Nilson Daniels, Lawrence Donald “Don” Daniels Jr. & wife Mandy ; grandchildren, Nichole, Matthew, Taylor, Kyle, Cole and Blake; great grandchildren, Easton, Deacon and Lillian; sister-in-law, Shelby Daniels and nieces, Chelsea Hendrickson and Michelle Kaercher; brother-in-law Dave Davis & wife Debra and niece, Rebecca Davis. personality and his smile.

Laurie grew up in the Houston area. He attended Lamar High School where he was a member of the track team (shot put) and a cheerleader. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston, where he served as president of Sigma Chi and inaugurated the Sam Houston Chapter. Mr. Daniels joined Securance Corporation Agency in the 1970’s as Owner/Partner. He helped lead the agency to it’s 50th successful year, as he considered all Securance employees as his “office family”. Many looked to him as a father figure. Laurie was a member of the Certified Life Underwriters, longtime president of the Ashford Lake Association and member of the UBBYC. Honorary pallbearers include members of the UBBYC, Bob Baillio, and Tom Geddy; lifelong friends Steve Zander, Nelson Fischer, Larry Pirtle and Mike Demko.

Laurie loved his family, his ranch, where he spent most weekends, and his work. The last week of his life HE DID IT HIS WAY; he spent time with all his family, he went to the office and he spent time on his tractor at the ranch. By Laurie’s standards, it was a good week. We will all miss his wonderfully witty

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A graveside service with Sigma Chi White Rose ceremony was held for friends and family, Wednesday, November 18, 2020 at 3:30 PM at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery, 12800 Westheimer Rd., Houston, TX 77077, The Rt. Rev. Jeff W. Fisher, Bishop Suffragan in the Episcopal Diocese of Texas officiated. A memorial gathering celebrating Laurie’s life followed the graveside service at Dettling Funeral Home 14094 Memorial Dr., Houston, TX 77079. In lieu of flowers please consider contributions in Laurie’s memory to: University of Houston Gift Processing and Records PO Box 867, Houston, TX 77001-0867 c/o Daniels Family Memorial Scholarship Endowment Online Giving: https://giving.uh.edu/gift Ensure to designate the Daniels Family Memorial Scholarship Endowment in the notes.

In Memoriam Mark Walter Applegate 1957 – 2020

Houston National, 16500 Houston National Blvd., Houston, TX 77095.

Immediately following, all are invited to greet the family during a reception.

In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions in his name be directed to one of the following:

Mark Walter Applegate was born to Walter Applegate and Shirley Walters Applegate on July 12, 1957 in Columbus, Ohio and passed away in Houston on Tuesday, November 24, 2020, following a courageous battle American Cancer Society with cancer.

P.O. Box 42040 Oklahoma City, OK 73123-3000 Mark was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his wife Vantage Hospice Shannon, daughters Dicea Applegate c/o The Caring Heart Fund and Rhiannon Applegate, sisters 21720 Kingsland Blvd., Suite 301 Sarah Applegate, Rachel Applegate Katy, TX 77450 both of Indianapolis, IN, Mary Nuckols (Tim) of Mechanicsville, VA, and sister in law Ann Melton (Bob) of Wylie, TX. He is also survived by his nephews Josh Nuckols, Brock Melton and nieces Meaghan Nuckols, Rachel Primeaux, JC Garcia and great niece Dylan Primeaux.

Mark spent 30+ years in the auto supply business and retired in 2013.

Mark was a Child Advocate for many years and won the Visteon Go the Extra Mile Award in 2004.

Mark was an avid golfer and member of Sterling Country Club. He and his wife Shannon loved to travel and were dedicated Astro and Texan fans.

A celebration of Mark’s life will take place at 2:30 on Saturday, January 23, 2021 at Sterling Golf Club at

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Houston Insurance Professionals

HIP Visits Kids Kinder Children

On Saturday 12-12-2020, HIP visited the Kid’s Kinder Children’s Protective Service. Our attendees were allowed to meet the group of kids - from a distance and bring them some gifts! We weren’t able do projects or eat with them this year but we were grateful to be there never-the-less! The kids ate Fajitas from Lupe Tortilla! Afterward, we brought them their gifts. Basket balls, Foot balls, Soccer balls, Ball Pumps, and an MP3 player for each child with its own USB (Earphone included) - so they will each be able to pick their own music. After CPS reviews the songs requested by each child - they will be able to listen and enjoy their music! We look forward to actually doing things with the kids in future but to be there on Saturday meant so much to the members of HIP - and the kids were wonderful! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Houston Insurance Professionals!

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When strength and stability matters…

We can get you there!

RSI INTERNATIONAL, INC. Managing General Agency

Arlington • St. Louis

Toll Free: 800.275.2084

www.rsimga.com Property | Liability | Contractors | Environmental Inland Marine | Garage | Professional | Homeowners

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RSI International, Inc. | 1250 East Copeland Rd. | Arlington, TX 76011 | 800.275.2084

Who has the Last Word Q: What is your favorite flavor of jelly beans?

A: Black licorice

Holly Bozant Q: Where you work: A: Insgroup, Inc. Q: What sound do you love?

A: The sound of music (except Rap!) Q: If you could paint a picture of any scenery you’ve seen before, what would you paint?

A: The Rocky Mountains

Q: What is your LEAST favorite electronic device?

A: Remote controls – never can find them!

Q: What is the longest car trip you have ever taken?

A: Any trip with kids in the car.

Q: Can vegetarians eat animal crackers?

A: If they close their eyes Q: Ninjas or pirates?

A: Ninjas, of course

Q: What was the first thing you bought with your own money?

A: A car (very small one)

Q: What was your favorite childhood television program?

A: Ponderosa – had a crush on Michael Landon

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

A: Forty was a good age – a lot less wrinkles.

Q: Are you a collector of anything?

A: No, I worked really hard to get rid of all my chotskies

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

A: Plenty…I can’t even go there!

Q: At a movie theater, which arm rest is yours?

A: Both

Q: What is something you learned in the last week?

A: Was I supposed to learn something??

Q: Weirdest thing you have ever eaten?

A: Kangaroo soup Q: What is your pet peeve in traffic?

A: That’s it…all traffic!

Q: Do you have any hidden talents?

A: Martial arts – so watch out!

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[EXPERIENCE.]

The Summit Advantage.®

Maintaining a safe workplace shouldn’t be a daunting task.

Protecting the workforce is what we do at Summit, and we’re here to help every step of the way.

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Policies are underwritten by Bridgefield Casualty Insurance Company and Bridgefield Employers Insurance Company, authorized insurers in AL, AR, FL, GA, IN, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN and TX; BusinessFirst Insurance Company, authorized in FL, GA, IN, KY, NC, SC and TN; RetailFirst Insurance Company, authorized in FL; Retailers Casualty Insurance Company, authorized in AL, AR, LA, MS and TX. ©2020 Summit Consulting LLC (DBA Summit, the people who know workers’ comp LLC) PO Box 988, Lakeland, FL 33802. All rights reserved.

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