September/October 2024 Wisconsin Professional Agent
Risk is everywhere. In everything. With Applied Underwriters by your side, the gears of commerce, innovation, and exploration keep turning. Experience the unrivaled heart and unwavering service that only Applied delivers. Learn more at auw.com or call (877) 234-4450.
EDUCATE
We are a community of independent agents and other dedicated insurance professionals, working to promote and improve the independent agency channel. Our mission is to support the advancement and excellence of all independent agencies.
We are the premier association for insurance education in Wisconsin. Grow your knowledge and your bottom line, at our education sessions. Whether you want to pursue a CIC, CPIA, CISR or CRM designation, or just meet your bi-annual Wisconsin CE requirement, you have come to the right place.
ADVOCATE
With lobbyists representing you in Madison and in Washington, D.C., PIA is looking out for your interests and promoting the independent agency channel within state and federal government. Our goal is a regulatory environment that allows your agency to grow and prosper.
COLLABORATE
PIA is a place for you to collaborate with, and learn from, other agents and many other professionals in the industry. Starting an agency? We’ve been there. Growing an agency? We’ve been there. Considering a new agency management system? PIA members have been there. Whether at our PIAW Winter Get-Away event in Minocqua, Annual
Scholarship Golf Outing or dozens of other events, you can collaborate with other professionals who have “been there.”
Our collective efforts have strengthened our community, supported our members and elevated our industry standards.
LACEY ENDRES, CIC President PIA of Wisconsin
THANK YOU FOR AN OUTSTANDING YEAR!
As my year in the PIAW President’s role comes to an end, I find it an opportune time to reflect on my journey, celebrate our achievements, and express my sincere gratitude for everyone’s support and dedication.
Our collective efforts have strengthened our community, supported our members and elevated our industry standards. I am incredibly proud of the work we have accomplished. From successful advocacy initiatives that have influenced policy, to educational programs that have empowered our members, we have made significant strides in living out our mission. Our networking events have fostered connections and facilitated the exchange of knowledge, further cementing our association as a pillar of the insurance industry.
Here are some of my favorite accomplishments of the past year:
- Created a Member Benefit Task Force focused on adding valuable new benefits to the PIA membership.
- Offered the Sample Employee Handbook to members for FREE. This new benefit allows every agency to have modern, up-to-date employment policies in writing and protect themselves from potentially expensive labor claims and lawsuits.
- Got a law passed that requires one semester of personal financial literacy class in Wisconsin high schools. This class will make Wisconsin kids aware of the importance of insurance and give them an introduction to our industry! It will take effect beginning with the Class of 2028.
- Helped to create a state grant program to cover the cost of driver safety education for students who qualify for free or reduced-price school lunches.
- Fought to increase penalties in state law for stealing catalytic converters.
- We petitioned to host a joint insurance
agent advocacy day with IIAW in March of 2025, when the new legislative session begins. This is a huge step forward in working together with our peer association.
- Our 5th Annual PAC Clay Shoot raised a record $14,000 for our Political Action Committee, increasing our ability to support lawmakers who support independent agents.
- We had our first-ever sold out PIAW Scholarship Golf Outing at Trappers Turn in Wisconsin Dells on August 1st, where we distributed $25,000 in scholarships to students seeking careers in the insurance industry!
These accomplishments are a direct result of the hard work and commitment of our PIAW staff, our board and committee members and the support of our agency members and carrier partners. Your insightful contributions, giving nature, and collaborative spirit have been instrumental in our success. I extend my heartfelt thanks to each of you for your dedication, passion, and the countless hours you have devoted to our association.
As we close this chapter on my time in the President’s role, I am filled with optimism and enthusiasm. The coming year presents us with continued opportunities to innovate, grow, and make a lasting impact. We will continue to navigate an ever-evolving market with resilience and innovation, consistently prioritizing the needs and well-being of our clients. We will push to advocate for our members, provide valuable resources, and foster a supportive community where professionals can thrive. I am deeply grateful for the trust you have all placed in me and for the unwavering support that defines our association. Thank you all for an outstanding year and cheers to another amazing year ahead!
If you would like to get someone on your staff to begin pursuing a professional credential, we can help with that.
PETE HANSON, CAE, CISR Executive Director PIA of Wisconsin
WHAT’S NEW FOR PIA MEMBERS & POLICYHOLDERS?
Zywave courses available FREE to Utica policyholders: Did you know that Utica National policyholders have access to Zywave training videos? These on-demand videos cover many risk management and human resources topics. There are more than 150 courses available, including workplace harassment and violence prevention, and many workplace safety courses. Contact Utica National at (315) 235-4700 to get started.
FREE E&O risk management webinar can save you $$$: PIA will begin presenting free webinars for members that are approved by Utica National to get you a 5% discount on your E&O premium. The first one will run on September 18, 2024. We plan to run the next one in January, 2025 and quarterly thereafter. Each webinar will be three hours and we will file the CE for you. You can find these courses on the Education Calendar at www.piaw.org.
Professional Credential Discount:
Speaking of discounts for our E&O policyholders, did you know that you can reduce your E&O premium an additional 5% by encouraging your staff to earn professional credentials? If 60% of your staff have a professional credential – including CPIA, CISR, CIC, CRM & CPCU – you can save hundreds of dollars.
If you would like to get someone on your staff to begin pursuing a professional credential, we can also help with that. Your staff member can complete the CPIA program with only three, oneday classes and we will pay for the first class! The program is called the Past Presidents Fellowship, and it is funded by the PIA of Wisconsin Past Presidents Club. The CPIA courses teach strong customer service techniques,
agency processes, retention strategies and marketing strategies. The cost for a webinar is $170 per class and we’ll cover the first one, for one staff member at each agency, in a given year.
If a staff member needs a program that focuses on insurance coverages, then the CISR program would be a great choice. Those webinars also cost $170 each, and five one-day courses must be completed (and exams passed) to achieve the designation. But again, the Past Presidents Fellowship program would like to cover the cost of the first one. Please reach out to Brenda Steinbach at bsteinbach@piaw.org to get signed up for a free course.
When’s the last time you assessed your technology stack? PIA members can assess their agency’s technology stack and chart the next steps in their agencyautomation journey, with Winning@ Virtual. All you have to do is sign onto the PIA National website (www. pianational.org), click on The PIA Partnership, select Winning@Virtual and then take the quiz that asks you to rate your agency’s capabilities in various technology areas.
Once you complete the quiz, you will get instant results that recommend your immediate next steps and future next steps. For each technology category, it will recommend solutions that will be a likely fit for your agency. It’s kind of like having an IT consultant, only it’s free, virtual and instantaneous. To sign onto pianational.org, if you’re the key contact at your agency, all you will need is your email address and to click “forgot my password.” You will receive a reset link and instructions. New users from your agency might need to call PIA National or email them at ProductsAndServices@ pianational.org.
GROW with TRICOR insurance
David Fritz, CPCU
President & CEO, TRICOR Insurance
(608) 473-1045
growwithus@tricorinsurance.com
Why agency owners choose TRICOR Insurance
• Flexible partner agreements including the ability to continue to grow your equity
• Gain the ability to retain local ownership while at the same time reallocating some of your assets at a time when valuations are high
• A dedicated integrations team that supports your agency’s onboarding
• A leadership team that values results, employee engagement, & local community support
• Access to agency-shared services: information technology, accounting, licensing & contracting, reporting & data analytics, human resources including benefits administration, marketing, & more
• Access to resources such as safety & human resources consulting
• State-of-the-art technology platforms & data analytics such as Salesforce, Indio, & more
• A strong focus on financial strength, backed by JC Flowers, a robust private equity capital group with strong ties to investing & growing businesses in the Midwest, supports our future growth
Contact us for a
As with all challenges, optimism, faith, and working hard on the right tasks will win the day.
STEVE CLEMENTS, CPIA
Immediate Past President PIA of Wisconsin
STAYING ON TOP IN A TUMULTUOUS TIME
One of the things I love most about summer in Wisconsin is the abundance of events and festivals held throughout our wonderful state. One such festival my family attended earlier this summer included a time-tested lumberjack games favorite: log rolling. In this classic contest, competitors on opposite sides of a floating log attempt to put the other in the water by rapidly spinning the log in both directions with just their fast-moving feet. It amazes me how long these lumber-jacks-and-jills are capable of staying atop a tiny, curved surface that is unpredictably spinning from one direction to the other.
Running an independent insurance agency in today’s market can feel a lot like being a log-rolling lumberjack. Agents and carriers alike find themselves running as fast as possible over unpredictable circumstances that often change without notice – all in an attempt to keep from falling off one side or the other of a very volatile insurance industry. But insurance professionals are not the only ones feeling the effects – insurance consumers are at the ground level of these turbulent times. Short of donning one’s favorite buffalo plaid flannel, how is the savvy insurance professional to respond to such circumstances to help quell client discontent, increase retention, and ultimately stabilize the agency’s book of business? Allow me to offer four suggestions set, fittingly, to the acronym LOGS.
1. L – L ook Into It – Many of the factors driving general rate instability and industry volatility are circumstantial and beyond an agent’s (or carrier’s) control. However, each client is unique and is affected by
individual factors as well. What is important, and what the client expects (and deserves) is for their agent to evaluate their account to ensure everything is as it should be. In our agency, we create a daily renewal report which shows us both the premium increases and the reason(s) for the increases. This gives us a snapshot from which we decide what action (if any) to take next. I recently had a client tell me, “I know you have my best interests in mind and I trust you. If you looked into it and concluded that it is best to stay where I’m at with my renewal, that’s what I’ll do.” I can’t imagine a much higher compliment.
2. O – Options – Now armed with the information about the client’s renewal, the agent is in a position to evaluate options. This does not always translate to re-rating the account; but it might. The best agents ask themselves intelligent questions such as: Was there a major change in the account composition (ex. adding a youthful driver, purchasing a house, adding an additional business class of operation)? These can be potential reasons to look at re-rating across your carrier portfolio. But before you do, it is wise to also ask: What is the loss history? How old is the roof? Have pre-underwriting concerns been thought though? It does none of the involved parties any favors by writing risks that will ultimately be cancelled, exposes the carrier to unnecessary loss, creates coverage gaps, or is simply not a good fit. A mantra worth operating by is that “It’s only good to have options if the options themselves are good.”
3. G – Get on the Phone - By now, nearly every agent has generated a memorized script to answer the ubiquitous “why’s” of this hard market. Inflation, CAT losses, carrier combined ratios, reinsurance changes, tightening underwriting, cost of labor/ materials. Etcetera, etcetera. Some of the more learned clients are aware of at least a handful of these reasons for rising rates. But the majority fixate on one thing: the number at the bottom of their renewal invoice. This is when it becomes hyper-important for the agent to put on his/her teacher hat. Be prepared to go present policy options, explain the factors impacting premium, highlight carrier policy contract revisions,
etc. Communication is key. A client is much more likely to leave if they feel ignored.
4. S – Set the Tone – At a time when good news can feel elusive, message delivery matters. According to communication experts, a person receiving the message will usually match the tone and demeanor of the one communicating the message. Curtness, frustration, and impatience will usually be returned in-kind. Throughout, the agent does well to exude a calm confidence as an educator and advisor. This goes a long way in building trust – which is the glue holding the agent/client relationship together. We train our staff to communicate three major
ideas: 1) I understand (empathy), 2) I’m here to help you (service), and 3) I’m on it (action).
There are promising signs that this current hard market is starting to soften. As with all challenges, optimism, faith, and working hard on the right tasks will win the day. In the meantime, I encourage all of my lumberjack/jill friends to continue running well and to always keep the LOGS underneath you.
HCAPITOL UPDATE
NATALIE WHITE Communications Director
Looking back to last summer, few would have predicted the political landscape that lies before us heading into the November 2024 election. Of course, Wisconsin was always going to be a battleground for the top of the ticket, but so much has changed. With new district boundaries changing state election dynamics, an assassination attempt and a new presidential nominee reinvigorating Democrats, this election cycle continues to surprise… and we still have months to go.
August Primary Election Takeaways
The August 13th primaries were the first test of the new legislative districts in Wisconsin and provided a glimpse into voters’ heads, heading into the fall. There were many local primary races on the ballot throughout the state that finally gave an answer to some important questions:
Would state incumbents pushed out of their old districts prevail against new challengers?
YES. Throughout the state, incumbents prevailed in both the Senate and the Assembly. Despite primary challengers in many districts, all incumbents – both Democratic and Republican – managed to prevail.
Which legislator would succeed in races where two incumbents were drawn together?
There were three races where two incumbent legislators from the same party were “paired” together, and both decided to run in the district. All were Republicans.
Assembly District 6: Rep. Elijah Behnke overcame Rep. Peter Schmidt
Assembly District 55: Rep. Nate Gustafson won over Rep. Michael Schraa
Assembly District 86: Rep. Donna Rozar lost to Rep. John Spiros
Would former state legislators or newcomers appeal to voters in competitive congressional races?
In Wisconsin’s 3rd and 8th congressional district primaries, experienced legislators were vying to be chosen for the November ballot. However, in both races the outside candidate won the nomination. In the 3rd, retiring Representative Katrina Shankland (D) lost the opportunity to face off against Derek Van Orden (R) to Rebecca Cooke (D). In the 8th, Senator Andre Jacque (R) and former Senator Roger Roth (R) both fell to Tony Wied (R), who has moved on to run against Kristin Lyerly (D).
Finally, the only statewide races on the ballot weren’t races at all. Two referendum questions pertaining to the Governor’s authority to spend federal dollars without approval from the Legislature came before the state’s voters and were both shot down by a wide margin of ~58% voting “No” and ~41% voting “Yes.” As this was a Republican-led initiative, some are questioning whether this is significant in a more motivated Democratic base with a new candidate at the top of the ticket, or whether it was just the result of a very successful “Vote No” campaign over the past few months.
Either way, the most prominent headline of the primary heading into November is the turnout. Whereas a few months ago, voter motivation was polling at a low, the course seems to have changed. The numbers coming out of the primary detailed the highest turnout for a presidential year primary in 60 years.
Whether that turnout is foreshadowing what to expect for the coming election remains to be seen, but you can bet that there will be every campaign force in action in Wisconsin over the next few months working drive you to the polls or collect your ballot early!
Continue to stay up to date with Wisconsin politics and PIA legislative activities in the Wisconsin Professional Agent and with updates on the PIAW Blog at piaw.org.
WE’VE REBRANDED
We are excited to announce an update to our branding and logo, aimed at enhancing our overall appeal, consistency, and engagement with customers. This refresh aligns with our vision for the future. As valued partners, we want to share with you the reasons behind this update and how it will benefit both agents and our policyholders.
By updating our logo and branding, we aim to achieve uniformity across all our communication channels and materials. This will create a more cohesive and consistent brand presence, making it easier for agents and policyholders to recognize and engage with our brand.
Your cares, covered.
We understand the importance of staying connected with our policyholders. The refreshed branding is designed to enhance our appeal to existing policyholders while also attracting new customers who are looking for a trusted and forward-thinking insurance provider.
Our new branding features a modernized look, text, and color palette that reflects our commitment to improved innovation and staying current with industry trends. These changes will help us stand out in a competitive market and appeal to a broader audience.
It's important to emphasize that while our branding is evolving, our core values and commitment to providing excellent service remain unchanged. The new look symbolizes our evolution and readiness to embrace the future while continuing to deliver the same high-quality products and support you have come to expect from us.
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Eye on the Law
Preparing for the Corporate Transparency Act: Risk and Compliance Solutions
Attorney Judd A. Genda | Attorney Robert C. Procter | Axley Brynelson, LLP
January 1, 2024, marked the effective start date of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). The federal government enacted the CTA in 2021 to:
1. C ombat money laundering and terrorism.
2. Create a central register of entity ownership information to assist with these combative efforts.
3. To join in a global effort to collect entity ownership information.
The CTA requires certain business entities to report information to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN)—a bureau of the United States Department of the Treasury—about themselves, each of their qualifying beneficial owners, and, for recently created entities, their company applicants. Substantial civil and criminal penalties are imposed for non-compliance with the CTA.
The CTA imposes its reporting obligation on corporations, limited liability companies, and other entities formed by filing documents with a secretary of state or a similar office of a state (Reporting Companies). Reporting Companies created or registered before January 1, 2024, and not dissolved or terminated before that date must report their company information and the information of their beneficial owners to FinCEN before January 1, 2025. Reporting companies created or registered on or after January 1, 2024, and before January 1, 2025, will have 90 days from the date their company’s formation is effective to report. On January 1, 2025, the time to report is reduced to 30 days after company formation.
The CTA includes 23 exemptions to its reporting requirements for entities. Two of these exemptions apply to the insurance industry. Exemption No. 12, Insurance Company, applies to an entity organized as an insurance company whose primary and predominant business activity is the writing of insurance or the reinsuring of risks underwritten by insurance companies, and which is subject to supervision by the insurance commissioner or a similar state official or agency. Exemption No. 13, State-Licensed Insurance Producers, applies to an entity that meets the following two criteria: (i) it is authorized by a State as an insurance producer and is under the
supervision of the state’s insurance commissioner or a similar state official or agency, and (ii) it has an operating presence at a physical office within the United States.
Many discussions about the CTA assume that insurance agencies automatically fall under Exemption No. 13. However, there’s a complication: the CTA appears to presume that entities acting as insurance producers are licensed, consistent with most states’ requirements. Most states mandate that businesses operating as insurance producers obtain a license and are, thus, under the supervision of the State’s insurance commissioner or a similar official or agency. However, in Wisconsin, this is not a requirement. While corporations, limited liability companies, and other legal entities may choose to obtain a license from the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI), it is not mandatory. As a result, many Wisconsin insurance agencies, structured as entities like corporations or limited liability companies operate without insurance licenses. Instead, the individual producers who own or work for these agencies are the ones that are licensed. This licensing system creates a potential issue with the application of Exemption No. 13, concerning unlicensed insurance agencies in Wisconsin. Without a license, insurance agencies in Wisconsin may not be considered authorized to act as insurance producers and are not directly overseen by OCI, unlike individual licensed producers.
There are differing viewpoints on the interpretation of Exemption No. 13. Some argue that it should apply to insurance agencies even if the entity itself is not licensed because OCI indirectly supervises unlicensed entities through its oversight of the licensed producers. Others contend that if an insurance agency is not licensed, it is not authorized by the State and the necessary oversight that is the basis for the exemption does not exist. Therefore, the agency cannot realize the benefits afforded under Exemption No. 13. FinCEN has not yet provided official guidance on how it will apply Exemption No. 13 to insurance agencies where the entity itself lacks a license.
Until FinCEN clarifies this issue, it may be prudent for entities not licensed with OCI to manage their risk by fulfilling the reporting requirements under the CTA to ensure compliance.
2024 PIA SCHOLARSHIP GOLF OUTING
This year, PIA’s Annual Scholarship Golf Outing took place on August 1st at the gorgeous Trappers Turn golf course in the Wisconsin Dells. Though there had been storms forecast earlier, they held off and it turned into a beautiful (BUT HOT!) day. Following the round, attendees gathered back at the clubhouse for a delicious dinner in celebration of PIA’s scholarship winners, attendees and sponsors.
There were a record number of golfers this year, leaving us with a completely SOLD OUT event! As hiring challenges
continue to impact every facet of the insurance industry, our scholarship initiative means more to us than ever. We are so grateful to every attendee and every sponsor for your continued support in helping to provide students with the means to pursue higher education in the industry.
And just like that, we are already looking forward to 2025 –Official date coming soon!
PIA’s 2024 Scholarship Winners
NATHAN HOUDEK Commissioner of Insurance
JUNE 2024
Allegations & Actions Against Agents
Brian J. Adair, 2275 Swallow Hill Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15220, was ordered to pay a forfeiture of $500.00. This action was taken based on allegations of failing to report an administrative action taken by another state.
Zachary Aidi, 162 Heather Lynn Dr., Davenport, FL 33897, had his insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on allegations of failing to pay a forfeiture to OCI when due.
Troy G. Baldridge, 3206 Idlewild Way, San Diego, CA 92117-3506, agreed to the permanent revocation of his Wisconsin insurance license. This action was taken based on allegations of violating insurance laws and lacking the character required of insurance intermediaries.
Samantha Besler, 10251 Bridget Ct., San Diego, CA 92124, had her insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on allegations of owing delinquent Wisconsin taxes.
Edwin Bolivar, 100 Golden Isles Dr., Hallandale Beach, FL 33009, agreed to the permanent revocation of his Wisconsin insurance license. This action was taken based on allegations of improperly submitted health insurance applications without customer authorization or knowledge.
Richard Burns, 3023 Nevermind Ln., Colorado Springs, CO 80917-3546, agreed to pay a forfeiture of $750.00. This action was taken based on allegations of failing to timely report to OCI administrative actions taken by the states of Illinois, North Dakota, Indiana, and Florida.
Nikki Dogs, 109 Prospect St., Elroy, WI 53929, had her insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on allegations of owing delinquent Wisconsin taxes.
Jose Estrada, 12043 Smallwood Ave., Downey, CA 90242, had his application for an insurance license denied. This action was taken based on
OCI ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS
Madison, WI—OCI has taken the following administrative actions. In many of these cases the respondent denied the allegations but consented to the action taken. Any forfeitures paid in these administrative actions are deposited in the Common School Fund which is administered by the Board of Commissioners of Public Lands. The earnings from this fund are distributed to all public K-12 schools in Wisconsin and are used by school libraries to purchase books. Copies of the administrative action orders may be viewed online at https://ociaccess. oci.wi.gov/OrderInfo/OrdInfo.oci.
allegations of having a restricted license in his home state of California.
Sean Flaherty-Larson, 7944 Watts Rd., Apt. 222, Madison, WI 53719-3816, agreed to a payment plan to provide restitution to an insured. This action is taken based on allegations of failing to timely submit an application.
Jeffrey Greene, 1301 NW 187th Ave., Pembroke Pines, FL 33029, had his application for an insurance license denied. This action was taken based on allegations of a criminal conviction substantially related to insurance marketing.
Richard C. Jordan, 1818 W. Juneau Ave., Apt. 233, Milwaukee, WI 53233-1189, had his insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on allegations of owing delinquent Wisconsin taxes.
Joseph Juncaj, 7903 Sal Mar Way, Shelby Township, MI 48316, agreed to the permanent revocation of his Wisconsin insurance license. This action was taken based on allegations of violating insurance laws and lacking the character required of insurance intermediaries.
Cory Lloyd, 527 SW South Carolina Dr., Stuart, FL 34994-7265, agreed to the permanent revocation of his Wisconsin insurance license. This action was taken based on allegations of improperly submitting health insurance applications without customer authorization or knowledge.
Monica Manriquez, 651 S. Wells St., Apt. 106, Chicago, IL 60607-4748, had her insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on her failing to pay a previous forfeiture when due.
Mitsuko L. Martindale, 3550 Winbranch Dr., Apt. 2, Memphis, TN 38116-4424, was ordered to pay a forfeiture of $500.00. This action was taken based on allegations of failing to report administrative actions taken by other states.
Cory R. Muller, 1024 166th St., Hammond, WI 54015, had his insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on allegations of owing delinquent Wisconsin taxes.
Amado Rogers, 240 Jamil Rd., Apt. 47, Columbia, SC 29210, had his insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on allegations of failing to pay a forfeiture to OCI when due.
Ariel N. Taylor, 1515 Rio Grande Dr., Apt. 815, Plano, TX 75075-6740, had her insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on allegations of failing to pay a previous forfeiture when due.
Myles Thompson, W9184 Ripley Rd., Cambridge, WI 53523, had his insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on allegations of owing delinquent Wisconsin taxes.
Monique R. Turner, 1957 N. 38th St., Milwaukee, WI 53208, had her insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on allegations of owing delinquent Wisconsin taxes.
JULY 2024
Allegations & Actions Against Agents
Jesse M. Abrams, 5301 N. Federal Hwy., Ste. 204, Boca Raton, FL 33487, was ordered to pay a forfeiture of $500.00. This action was taken based on allegations of failing to timely report an administrative action taken by another state.
Andrew P. Amrein, 8500 Larkspur Ter., Saint John, IN 46373-0650, was ordered to pay a forfeiture of $1,000.00. This action was taken based on allegations of failing to report an administrative action taken by other states.
Adam Berger, 409 S. 83rd St., West Des Moines, IA 50266, was ordered to pay a forfeiture of $500.00. This action was taken based on allegations of failing to timely report an administrative action taken by another state.
Kenneth V. Bodin, 2091 County Road D East, Maplewood, MN 55109, had his insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on allegations of owing delinquent Wisconsin taxes.
Elizabeth C. Booth, 1844 Springdale St., Mount Horeb, WI 53572, had her insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on allegations of owing delinquent Wisconsin taxes.
John M. Brown, 363 N. Sam Houston Pkwy. E., Ste. 1100, Houston, TX 77060-2413, was ordered to pay a forfeiture of $500.00. This action was taken based on allegations of failing to report an administrative action taken by another state.
Tyrre A. Burks, 718 Washington Ave. N., Ste. 402, Minneapolis, MN 55401, was ordered to pay a forfeiture of $2,000.00. This action was taken based on allegations of failing to report administrative actions taken by other states.
Benjamen K. Collier, 11607 NW 48th St., Coral Springs, FL 33076, was ordered to pay a forfeiture of $500.00. This action was taken based on allegations of failing to report administrative actions taken by other states.
Marielle Crowley, 7817 W. Fond Du Lac Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53218, had his application for an insurance license denied. This action was taken based on allegations of a criminal conviction substantially related to insurance marketing.
Kenesha S. Darlington, 5022 Savannah River Way, Apt. 319, Orlando, FL 32839, had her insurance intermediary license permanently revoked. This action was based on allegations of misrepresentation, failure to respond to OCI requests for information, and failure to participate in administrative proceedings.
Jose A. Fuentes, 1723 Spruce St., Grafton, WI 53024, had his insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on allegations of owing delinquent Wisconsin taxes.
Analicia R. Geisen, P.O. Box 6142, Peoria, AZ 85385-6142, was ordered to pay a forfeiture of $500.00. This action was taken based on allegations of failing to report an administrative action taken by another state.
Francisco Jaimes Bautista, 146 N. Elm St., Kimberly, WI 54136, had his application for an insurance license denied. This action was taken based on allegations of a criminal conviction
which may be substantially related to insurance marketing and failing to report previous administrative actions.
Kristopher N. Jensen, 803 Bruner St., Apt. B, Rhinelander, WI 54501, had his insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on allegations of owing delinquent Wisconsin taxes.
Kyle J. Luebeck, 6550 265th St. W., Farmington, MN 55024-9662, was ordered to pay a forfeiture of $500.00. This action was taken based on allegations of providing incorrect information on a licensing application.
Wendy McFarlane, 927 Orange Ave., Port Orange, FL 32129-3454, was ordered to pay a forfeiture of $500.00. This action was taken based on allegations of failing to report an administrative action taken by another state.
Javonae Mitchell, 8275 Walnut Hill Ln., Apt. 504, Dallas, TX 75231, had her insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on allegations of owing delinquent Wisconsin taxes.
Jacob J. Ormsby, 2825 S. 84th St., West Allis, WI 53227, had his insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on allegations of owing delinquent Wisconsin taxes.
Joshua R. Overlee, 6808 S. 107th St., Franklin, WI 53132, had his insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on allegations of owing delinquent Wisconsin taxes.
Zachary R. Pittsley, 3201 Osborne Blvd., Racine, WI 53405, had his insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on allegations of owing delinquent Wisconsin taxes.
Jasmine Roberts, 9301 E. US Highway 290., Apt. 1226, Austin, TX 78724-0008, was ordered to pay a forfeiture of $500.00. This action was taken based on allegations of failing to timely report three administrative actions taken by other states in violation of INS 6.61(16), Wis. Adm. Code, and in violation of a previous warning letter regarding earlier nondisclosures.
Ashley Scalzo, 202 23rd Ave., Cumberland, WI 54829, had her insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on allegations of owing delinquent Wisconsin taxes.
Karen J. Vandergalien, 155 Jackson St., Apt. 313, Oshkosh, WI 54936, agreed to surrender her
insurance license. This agreement was based on allegations of having criminal convictions that may be substantially related to the circumstances of holding an insurance license.
Jerry A. Villagrana, 4955 Montebello Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80918, had his application for an insurance license denied. This action was taken based on allegations of having been convicted of a crime substantially related to the circumstances of holding an insurance license.
Terrance Williams, 8152 Blakton Rd., Madison, WI 53719, was ordered to pay a forfeiture of $500.00. This action was taken based on allegations of failing to disclose an administrative action taken by another state.
Kristen Wilson, 3543 Woodlake Rd., Hephzibah, GA 30815, had her application for an insurance license denied. This action was taken based on allegations of failing to pay state income tax.
Myron C. Worthon, My Insurance Guy AZ, 7820 N. 59th Ln., Glendale, AZ 85301-7810, was ordered to pay a forfeiture of $500.00. This action was taken based on allegations of failing to report an administrative action taken by another state and of violating a warning letter issued for previous non-disclosures.
Elton Yaldo, 39340 Heatherbrook Dr., Farmington Hills, MI 48331, agreed to the surrender of his Wisconsin insurance license. This action was taken based on allegations of making misrepresentations in the sale of insurance products, recommending unsuitable insurance products, and lacking the character required of insurance intermediaries.insurance license revoked. This action was taken based on allegations of owing delinquent Wisconsin taxes.
OCI is responsible for overseeing the operations and marketing of insurance companies and agents in Wisconsin. OCI encourages anyone with a question or a complaint regarding an insurance company or agent to contact the office at this toll-free telephone number: 1-800-236-8517.
COMMUNITY CORNER
How are you and your agency or company helping your community? Community Corner showcases what individual members and agency/company members are doing to help make Wisconsin a great place to live and run a business. Share your volunteer story with us – shoot an email and photos of the action to nwhite@piaw.org!
SECURA’S EXECUTIVE TEAM RAISES MONEY FOR UNITED WAY FOX CITIES
THE INSURANCE CENTER TEES OFF FOR THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUB
Members of The Insurance Center’s team braved the rain earlier this summer to participate in the Boys & Girls Club of Greater La Crosse’s Golf Classic - FORE kids! Thanks to the generosity of the participants, the event was able to raise over $40,000 to go back towards programs and initiatives that empower and inspire the community’s youth. Thanks for helping DRIVE positive change in our La Crosse community!
Earlier this summer, members of SECURA Insurance’s Executive Team woke up bright and early to cook and serve breakfast to their fellow associates. This annual breakfast was not only a nutritious way to start the day, but it also helped raise money for SECURA’s United Way Fox Cities campaign. What a great way to support an important cause!
VIZANCE PARTNERS WITH FEEDING AMERICA
In July, members of the Vizance team joined together with Feeding America to help fight hunger in their local community. Associates rolled up their sleeves and spent some time packing meals to distribute to families in need. During their time volunteering, the group packed 50,654 pounds of food, providing 4,711 meals. What a fulfilling way to spend a day with your team!
SERRVPRO’S TAMMY RAISES MONEY FOR THE DANE COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY
Tammy Wilkinson of SERVPRO of Madison woke up extra early to volunteer at the World’s Largest Brat Fest in Madison this summer. During her day of volunteering, all the proceeds she earned went to the Dane County Humane Society to help animals in need. Her team was extra grateful for her service when she brought in brats for breakfast. Thank you, Tammy, for giving back!
WEST BEND RAISES OVER $700,000 FOR YOUTH EDUCATION
West Bend Insurance Company hosted their 10th Silver Lining Classic golf outing and dinner auction on August 12th at the West Bend Country Club, Hidden Glen Golf Club, and West Bend Prairie Center. Thanks to the support of 360 independent insurance agents, business partners, friends, and associates, the outing raised a whopping $700,000 that was distributed evenly to the Evan Scholars Foundation, the Donald Driver Foundation, and the Pat Connaughton Foundation. While each charity has its own unique mission, all three serve youth by providing access to various resources, teaching valuable skills like work ethic, leadership, and endurance through sports, offering scholarships for higher education, and connecting individuals to education and wellness programs.
ANSAY & ASSOCIATES’ MADISON TEAM WALKS FOR CANCER RESEARCH
Members of the Ansay & Associates’ team got together a couple of months ago to participate in a 5K for the Carbone Race for Cancer Research. The team braved some rainy weather in support of the cause and raised $700, surpassing their original goal of $250. Their team was named “Team Rita,” in honor of associate Heidi Neinow’s sister, who is courageously battling pancreatic cancer. What an amazing way to show your support and continue the search for a cure!
OCTOBER 16 & 17
GEEEN BAY, WISCO NSIN
THE PREMIER CASINO HOTEL IN GREEN BAY
SAVE the DATE! Registration opens June 1st
Make Your Reservations Today! $129 Room Rate. Register online using link at piaw.org/engage or call 920-494-7300 and mention “PIA 2024 Room Block”
WEDNESDAY 10/16
8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. CPIA 1 | Sustain Succes with Sam Bennett, CIC, CPIA, AFIS, CRIS Separate registration required
5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. President Endres’ “Opening Party” Casual start to a great night with food, drinks and fun “Mixer”
7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. The Turn | Busing Provided
A highlight of Engage 2021, we are going back to where the virtual possibilities are endless! PIA has the entire complex.
10:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. PIA Pizza at Oneida’s “Cedar & Sage Grill House”
THURSDAY 10/17
8:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. Bloody Mary Bar & PIA Prize Wheel
9:45 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Turning the Page: CEO Insights on Transition
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Awards Lunch
1:15 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. (Re)Connect | Trade Show
3:15 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. Howard Kellman – Award Winning Sportscaster
OCTOBER 16 & 17
GEEEN
Registration opens June 1st
CEO INSIGHTS ON TRANSITION
The insurance industry has been undergoing major transitions: from leadership changes to evolutions in the market and new approaches to emerging risks. Join current and former CEOs as they share their perspectives on the new insurance landscape, how their companies are evolving, and what you can expect heading into this new chapter. Prepare your questions and comments!
SAM BENNETT, CIC, CPIA, AFIS, CRIS
A Wisconsin favorite, Sam will present the first in the three series, CPIA 1 “Position for Success” 7 CE Credits (2 are Ethics) Utica approved. No Exam. Pay only ½ price with Engage 2024 registration.
HOWARD KELLMAN –
AWARD
WINNING SPORTSCASTER, INDUCTEE IN 3 HALL OF FAMES
“Howard was our 2023 Keynote. The whole room loved him. Even the non-sports people were engaged, impressed and laughing.” PIA of Indiana
“Howard will present at our conference for the 3rd time – he is that good!” Richard Pitts, MICA, CIC & Ruble Faculty
HEATHER BOYER, MBA President & CEO
RICK PARKS, CPCU Director & Retired CEO
GARTH WICINSKY President & CEO DAVE GROSS Retired President & CEO
ROB JACQUES President & Chief Executive
KEVIN STEINER Retired CEO
Lesson 26: Be Careful – You Never Know With Whom You Are Speaking
| Howard Kellmann Award Winning Sportscaster, Inductee in 3 Hall of Fames
Hall of Famer Joe “Ducky” Medwick is the last National Leaguer to win Baseball’s Triple Crown. He accomplished the feat with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1937
I spent some time with him when he was the Cardinals’ Minor League Hitting Instructor. The first time we met was in Tulsa, when the Indianapolis Indians were playing the Tulsa Oilers, the Cardinals’ Triple-A Farm Team.
“Joe, my name is Howard Kellman. I broadcast the Indianapolis Indians games,” I said.
“Hey kid, do you know much about me,” he replied.
I rattled off his accomplishments and then added that I knew that he was a “tough guy.”
“I didn’t take any s…. from anybody,” he declared. “I will tell you a story to show you what I mean. We (Cardinals) were playing the Cubs at Wrigley Field; I hit a ball off the wall in right center field, and I was thinking triple. The throw to the Cubs third baseman Stan Hack was in plenty of time. However, when I slid I kicked the ball loose and my spikes cut Stan on the left arm. I was safe,” Medwick explained.
“The Cub fans went crazy,” Medwick continued. “They were screaming at me for several minutes and as things were quieting down, this one fan in the third base stands continued screaming at me at the top of this lungs. I was yelling at him too.”
Stan Hack got involved. even though he was upset with Medwick.
“Joe, do you know who that is? Do you know who you are yelling at?” Stan asked.
“I don’t give a s… who it is,” Medwick responded. After Hack persisted, Medwick finally relented.
“Okay, who is this guy that I am yelling at, the one that’s screaming at me?” Medwick questioned.
“JOE, THAT’S AL CAPONE!” Hack shouted.
“I was shocked! At that point, I stopped yelling at him,” Medwick said. “After the game, back at the hotel, I bolted the door and stacked all of the furniture against it.”
Medwick did not get much sleep that night and learned a very valuable lesson.
DON’T MISS HOWARD KELLMANN’S KEYNOTE AT ENGAGE 2024!
“Howard was our 2023 Keynote. The whole room loved him. Even the non-sports people were engaged, impressed and laughing.” - PIA of Indiana
“Howard will present at our conference for the 3rd time – he is that good!” - Richard Pitts, MICA, CIC & Ruble Faculty
“We learn great lessons in life, not only through our own experiences, but also from the lives of others. Howard through his vast knowledge and experience, has done a great job in bringing many of these insightful and inspiring lessons to us.” - Cecil Cooper, Five-time All Star
ANNUAL MEETING NOTICE AND NOMINATIONS COMMITTEE REPORT
The Annual Meeting of the Professional Insurance Agents of Wisconsin, Inc. will be held at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 17, 2024 at the Oneida Hotel in Green Bay, Wisconsin. At that meeting, the Nominations Committee will place the following names in nomination for election to the Board of Directors. In accordance with PIAW procedures, we are publishing photos and a brief biography of each nominee. Nominations will be accepted from the floor at the annual meeting and each nominee will speak on their own behalf prior to the election. Each director will serve a three-year term beginning at the installation ceremony at that day’s Awards Luncheon.
Alyssa Hobgood is a third-generation independent insurance agent with BWO Insurance in Oak Creek. Alyssa started her insurance career on the carrier side with United Fire Group, 11 years ago. She has been with BWO for 8 years. Alyssa holds a Bachelors of Business Administration from UW-Whitewater. She currently serves on the PIA of Wisconsin Board of Directors, having been appointed by the Board to fill a vacancy in 2023. She also chairs PIA’s Convention Committee. Alyssa has been active in her local chamber of commerce, as well, having served as president in 2022-2023. Alyssa’s top carriers are West Bend, Acuity and Auto-Owners.
Melissa Brown, CPIA, is Personal Lines Manager at Holden Insurance Agency in Superior. She has been a property, casualty and life insurance agent for 24 years. Melissa earned an associate’s degree in marketing and an associate’s degree in fashion merchandising from Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College Superior, WI. She currently serves on the Education Committee for PIA of Wisconsin. Her community involvement has included service as President of the Superior Kiwanis Club and on the boards of Douglas County Leadership Program and Mentor North as well as Superior Porchfest/Siggy’s Musical Garden.
Shannon Wiegman is Senior Operations Manager at M3 Insurance in De Pere. Shannon’s 20-plus years in the property and casualty industry include experience on the carrier side in both claims and sales operations, and the last 6 years in agency operations. She has a Bachelor’s of Business Administration from St. Norbert College and she has held leadership roles with many area nonprofit organizations, including Rebuilding Together Fox Valley, Brown County United Way, Girl Scouts of the Northwestern Great Lakes and Greater Green Bay Habitat for Humanity. Shannon currently serves on PIA of Wisconsin’s Legislative Committee, Convention Committee and Education Committee. Her top three carriers are West Bend, Travelers and Cincinnati.
Are your clients’ auto liability limits sufficient?
| By Martha Lester, MBA, AAI, AIC, CIC, CRM, CFE
I’m not an attorney but I’ve held many roles throughout my career in insurance, including sales and claims, and I’ve been teaching insurance pre-licensing for property and casualty for many years. There is certainly a lot of material to discuss and a lot for the students to remember for the exams. I share real stories related to the content to help them tie it all together. After all, who really thinks about this stuff? That’s why consumers need insurance agents… because we do!
Two auto insurance laws that surprise students are: 1) Who is responsible for a minor driving, and 2) The state’s limits on wrongful death.
In Wisconsin, when a minor drives, both parents are responsible for the minor’s actions while operating the motor vehicle if the child lives with both parents and one signed on the back of the driver’s license. Otherwise, if the child does not live with both parents, it is the responsibility of the parent who did sign the application for a license. If neither parent signed the back of the license application, the responsibility falls to the person who did. What does that
mean? The damages and injuries that a minor causes, with respect to driving a motor vehicle, become the legal liability of their driver’s license sponsor. Years ago, my 17-yearold niece asked me to take her down to get her license. I declined. If I did sign, I would have been responsible for her actions while driving any vehicle. That’s a lot of responsibility when she did not live with me and I did not have the ability to monitor when, where, and whose vehicle she was driving.
Another Wisconsin auto law that shocks students is wrongful death. When careless operation of a motor vehicle results in the death of another, wrongful death is a civil claim that family members of the deceased may file against the negligent driver. (Wisconsin law states that claims for wrongful death due to auto accidents must be filed within two years of the date of the accident.) These additional non-economic damages that can be awarded by law include loss of society and companionship (the loss of love and affection). This loss is capped by the states. Economic damages such as medical expenses as a result of the accident, funeral and burial costs, loss of income, loss of inheritance, loss of services provided to the home and family (lawn care, snow removal, housekeeping, etc.), and damage to another’s property are not restricted by a dollar limit. The negligent driver would be liable for this financial loss in addition to the wrongful death settlement. When a minor is killed, there are a number of other factors that may come into play as the view is from the perspective of what would have been. The legal system is now faced with predicting the future. How does one value the loss a father endures when he will never see his son grow into a man, never walk his daughter down the aisle, or have the father/ daughter dance at the wedding? What type of value can be put on the loss a mother sustains when she will never see her child graduate, live out his or her dreams, and will never hold her grandchildren? With the “what ifs” in mind, Wisconsin sets a maximum limit for wrongful death of $350,000 for the negligent death of an adult and $500,000 for the negligent death of a minor.
Continued on page 34
THANK YOU 2024 SUPPORTING MEMBERS!
Each year the insurance companies that choose to support the Professional Insurance Agents of Wisconsin make so many things possible. It is because of them that we can offer top-notch, affordable networking and education opportunities to our member agents.
Platinum Supporting Members
Gold Supporting Members
Silver Supporting Members
ready for a new beginning?
• 13th largest auto insurer in the U.S.1 (even though we only operate in 12 states and the District of Columbia)
• 12th largest home insurer in the U.S.1
• 13th largest business insurer in the U.S.2
• Support from a dedicated sales team and your own underwriter
• FORTUNE 500® company
• High customer retention3—over 90%
Faking Honesty is Not a Good E&O Tool
Comedian Groucho Marx once said, “The secret of life is honesty and fair dealing. If you can fake that, you’ve got it made.” As interesting as it may sound, Groucho was not an insurance producer. If he had been, he may have been involved in an E&O claim or two.
Producers and Customer Service Representatives are “tested” daily on their levels of integrity and honesty in the operation of an insurance agency. How these tests are handled can lead to significant consequences. Imagine facing the following scenario:
As a Producer/Account Executive/Customer Service Representative, you are looking to write a specific account that, in the company’s eyes, may not be a “perfect match.” Perhaps the account had a loss or two (or three). Maybe it’s a property account, with a significant amount of the building vacant. Quite possibly, the account was non-renewed by the previous carrier. The list of possibilities is virtually endless. As you complete the application, you arrive at the questions addressing these exposures. What are you thinking? If you “bend the truth,” who will ever know? What could possibly happen if someone did find out?
This issue has been the central focus of more than a handful
of E&O claims. In practically all of these cases, the odds are stacked heavily against the agency. In most of these E&O cases, the carrier somehow did find out the truth and, when this happened, the agent caught the full brunt of the carrier’s consternation. Agency staff interacts with carriers and wholesalers on a variety of application issues. The scenario could involve when the application was initially submitted or when the carrier Underwriter contacted the agency with additional questions.
TIPS TO KEEP IN MIND
• Lying on an application to get an account written is dead wrong. It’s advisable to find another occupation if lying on applications is how you will conduct yourself. There are thousands of honest, truthful producers who present the carrier with an accurate assessment of the risk and stand by the carrier’s decision. Doing anything to the contrary gives the noble insurance industry a bad name.
• Completing an application with the customer’s input is the best practice. Ask all of the questions and don’t presume to know the answer to any of them. Where possible, visit the risk you are trying to insure. This enables you to speak with some degree of credibility on any subsequent conversations. Upon the completion of the application, require the customer to review it and sign it, attesting to the accuracy of the information.
• Don’t presume that you know the answers when handling carriers’ follow-up questions. Note the questions and then contact the customer to secure the answers. Document discussions in the agency file if the customer answers your questions over the phone or in person. Send a letter or email to the customer to memorialize the discussion and the responses, and include a copy in your file.
• Customers often ask questions try to understand insurance and how it works. How the producer chooses to answer these questions is extremely important. Providing the customer with incorrect information is wrong. Suppose a producer thinks, “The only way the customer will know I was wrong is if they have a claim. What are the chances of that?” The producer is wrong. An anonymous quote summed it up best: “I’d rather be honest than impressive.”
• Make honesty the basis of your carrier relationship. The consequences can otherwise be significant. While losing one’s license is a definite possibility, the carrier/ wholesaler could decide to terminate its relationship with you. Don’t expect any carrier to be too understanding and accommodating if it finds out there has been a breach of honesty.
Ensuring that all sales staff knows honesty is the only way and anything outside of that will not be tolerated should be a goal of agency management. Lying to your carriers has many significant consequences, including damaging the relationship between the agency and the carrier. In addition, if the carrier suffers a loss and believes it was misled into writing the account, it could rescind the policy, essentially leaving your agency as the “insurance carrier.” That’s definitely a position you do not want to find yourself in.
IS YOUR CURRENT AGENCY A BUST? join
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BWO is here for you today and for all your tomorrows. Join BWO... the agency that remains small, not selling out to big entities or private equity firms that lose you in the shuffle. BWO continually invests in their independent agents giving you the freedom to do what you do best... SELL!!
EDUCATION
NEW TOPICS ADDED! 3 WI CE CREDITS. LIVE (NOT PRE-RECORDED). NO TEST. NO PROCTOR. Visit the Education tab at piaw.org for a complete list of topics, descriptions, webinar demo and registration. Several approved for Utica credit. Ethics is offered each month. Fee per Webinar: $55 PIAW Member, $70 Non-Member. Includes WI CE fees. NEW! 1-Hour Webinars: $25 PIAW Member, $35 Non-Member
September 2024 Webinar Schedule
An Hour with Nicole: Everything You Need to Know About Insuring Work-From-Home Exposures
1 WI CE # 6000134133
Claims That Will Convince Your Insured to Enhance Their Homeowners Coverage
3 WI CE # 6000136609
The STORM 2024 Edition: Commercial and Personal Lines Coverage Concerns in the Wake of a Big One
1 WI CE # 6000159329
Cyber Coverage: Protecting Your Insureds From Hackers, Liars, & Really Bad Bots
3 WI CE # 6000136607
The Bad Thing Happened: Handling Commercial Claims & Coverage Disputes
3 WI CE # 6000139310
Forward and Backward: Insuring Emerging Risks, Surviving Deteriorating Markets
3 WI CE # 6000161320
Commercial Property: Recent Changes and Crucial Concepts
3 WI CE # 6000136533
All Things Ethics: Agent Obligations, Standards, Authority and More
3 WI ETHICS, CE # 6000139311 Utica Approved
“Wait…What the #^&* Just Happened?!” Fourteen Personal Lines Issues To Know Before It’s Too Late
3 WI CE # 6000136608 9/26 8-11a
Flood Insurance: What You Need to Know NFIP Approved
NEW TOPICS ADDED! 3 WI CE CREDITS. LIVE (NOT PRE-RECORDED). NO TEST. NO PROCTOR. Visit the Education tab at piaw.org for a complete list of topics, descriptions, webinar demo and registration. Several approved for Utica credit. Ethics is offered each month. Fee per Webinar: $55 PIAW Member, $70 Non-Member. Includes WI CE fees. NEW! 1-Hour Webinars: $25 PIAW Member, $35 Non-Member
October 2024 Webinar Schedule
An Hour with Nicole: Why Personal Lines Deductibles Always Confuse Insureds
1 WI CE # 6000136589
Inflation and Personal Lines: Helping Insureds Understand Why It Matters
3 WI CE # 6000139308
Nicole Broch, CIC, CISR, PLCS
Nicole Broch, CIC, CISR, PLCS Transportation Insurance: A Non-Standard Business Income
3 WI CE # 6000165162
Social Security and Medicare: Your Questions Answered
3 WI CE # 6000159350
Stinkin Rich, Insurance Poor: P&C Coverage Challenges for High-Net-Worth Individuals
3 WI CE # 6000163184
Bots, Crypto, Weed and Other Risks You Never Imagined Insuring (But Here We Are)
3 WI CE # 6000134132
Liar!: An Agent’s Role in Identifying & Handling Fraud
3 WI CE # 6000159328
Mastering Business Income: Tools & Tips to Keep Insureds Flush
3 WI CE # 6000136605
Ethical Dilemmas in Insurance and the Responsibilities of Agents
3 WI ETHICS, CE # 6000136606
Utica Approved
An Hour with Cathy: Certificates of Insurance - Headaches and Remedies
Anyone Can Attend No Exam Required for CE 16 WI CE Each
NOVEMBER 20-21
Commercial Multiline Webinar
JANUARY 22-23
Commercial Property Webinar
FEBRUARY 26-27
Agency Management Webinar (Includes 3 Ethics CE)
CIC GRADUATE RUBLE WEBINARS & CLASSROOM
Exciting update option for CICs, CRMs, and CISRs! 16 WI CE Each / CISRs Can Attend One Day for 8 CE and Update Credit
SEPTEMBER 25-26 Green Bay (4 Optional Ethics)
SEPTEMBER 13
Commercial Casualty 1 Webinar Sam Bennett
SEPTEMBER 4
CPIA 1 – Webinar
OCTOBER 8-9 Webinar
DECEMBER 11-12 Webinar (4 of 16 Ethics)
CISR WEBINARS & CLASSROOM
Anyone Can Attend. No Exam Required for CE 7 WI CE Each
SEPTEMBER 19
Elements of Risk Management Webinar, Bettye Hutchison
OCTOBER 3
Agency Operations Webinar John Dismukes
CPIA WEBINARS & CLASSROOM
Anyone Can Attend. No Exam. 7 WI CE (2 of 7 Ethics) Utica Approved
OCTOBER 8
CPIA 2 - Webinar
OCTOBER 16
CPIA 1 – Green Bay
MARCH 5-6 Webinar
OCTOBER 15
Other Personal Lines Solutions Waukesha, Sam Bennett
JANUARY 7
Disaster & Continuity Planning for Businesses and Families Webinar (1 of 7 Ethics, Not Utica)
WISCONSIN’S OUTSTANDING CSR OF THE YEAR
Congratulations to Lindsey Henry, CIC from M3 Insurance Inc. in Madison, WI.! Lindsey proceeds to the national competition and will be recognized for this achievement at Engage 2024 in Green Bay.
This prestigious award, created in 1991 by the Societies of CISR and CIC recognizes the important role the customer service representative plays in the day-to-day care and service of the customer. The award honors the CSR who demonstrates through dedication and performance, the highest level of personal and professional achievement. The PIA Board of Directors and the Education Committee use a comprehensive process to select Wisconsin’s recipient.
Read Lindsey’s winning essay under ABOUT/Hall of Fame at piaw.org
2024 CANDIDATES
Amy Cordova CIC, CISR
Mitch Fuller
Lindsey Hamilton, CIC, CISR
Erin Konkel, CIC, CISR
Krista Marvin, CISR
Angela Ott
Therese Shirley
New CISRs
The Certified Insurance Service Representative program empowers outstanding individuals to provide exceptional account management and customer service.
Hunter Dux, CISR Church Mutual Insurance Company
Vicky Faust, CISR TRICOR Insurance
Nicole Geddes, CISR Ansay & Associates
Ryan Gilbert, CISR Hausmann Group
Karyn Hemmersbach, CISR Tricor Insurance
Alicia Hutkowski, CISR Sentry Insurance
Nicole Johnson, CISR Vizance, Inc.
Andria Lederhaus, CISR Rural Mutual Insurance Company
Alan Michaca, CISR Brown & Brown, Inc.
Kimberly Nass, CISR Acuity Insurance
Robert Ramlet, CISR The Insurance Center
David Robbins, CISR Hausmann Group
Emily Rucinski, CISR TRICOR Insurance
Julia Schwartz, CISR M3 Insurance Inc.
Oliver Smith, CISR Hausmann Group
Chelsea Strube, CISR Ansay & Associates
NEW CISR
ELITEs
The honorable status for CISRs who aspired to be more and passed all nine CISR courses.
Dawn DeGeorge, CISR Elite Ansay & Associates
Tiffany Knudson, CISR Elite TRICOR Insurance
NEW CICs
The Certified Insurance Counselors (CIC) Program has been the insurance industry’s premier, proven source for practical, real-world education since 1969. For insurance professionals everywhere, the 16 hour Institutes represent a thoroughly rewarding learning experience, led by accomplished insurance and risk management speakers.
Andrea Matteson, CIC The Hartford
Jason Richter, CISR, CRM, CIC Ansay & Associates
Chloe Steinbach, CIC, CPIA M3 Insurance, Inc.
Continued from page 24
Students frequently ask me “Who pays that?”. The answer is the person who was negligent for causing the fatal accident. Hopefully that person has high auto liability limits and an umbrella policy. Many students mistakenly think the wrongful death payout comes from the state from some sort of a fund. It makes me wonder how many people, in general, think that or if they are even aware of the state’s wrongful death limits.
We don’t want to think that we could be negligent for a fatal auto accident. However, the truth is 40,990 people were estimated to have died in automobile accidents nationally in 2023, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Two of the accidents that made the headlines, both in March of 2022, were nine people (including six college students) who died in an accident in West Texas and six students who died in a crash in Oklahoma City.
The pickup that caused the Texas crash was originally suspected to be driven by a 13-year-old boy with his father in the passenger seat. However, ABC later reported that the father was driving and the child was a passenger, according to DNA evidence. Both were killed when the pickup crossed the center line and hit the van carrying the coach and eight college players from the Southwest Golf Team, ranging from ages 18 to 22. The father and son in the pickup, the coach, and six of the students died. Two students were critically injured and flown to the hospital. The seven fatalities of students 18 and over would, in Wisconsin, have a potential wrongful death settlement of $350,000 per person. That’s a total of 2.45 million dollars for the wrongful deaths. The medical and funeral costs, along with other economic damages, would be in addition to the 2.45 million.
The crash in Oklahoma City occurred when six teenage girls climbed into a four-passenger automobile during their school lunch break, rolled through a stop sign, and
collided with a commercial truck that was carrying rocks (according to NBC news). The driver of the truck did not sustain any injuries. All six of the girls, ranging in ages from 15-17, died. If the capped limit for wrongful death in Wisconsin for a minor is $500,000, and the loss occurred in this state, the teen driver who was negligent in causing the death of her five friends would have a liability owed of up to 2.5 million dollars just for the loss of society and companionship to the families. How much liability coverage is enough?
A November 2023 report by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety indicates that 50% of drivers engage in risky driving behavior. The top three are speeding, distracted driving, and aggressive driving.
Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, is the deadliest time for teenage drivers (according to AAA). This calendar time frame is referred to as the 100 Deadliest Days where 30% of teen deaths, as a result of auto accidents, occur. The report indicates that teen driving accidents result in an average of 2,341 fatalities annually. AAA spokesperson, William Van Tassel, stated that a teen driver adding one passenger, under the age of 21, raises the chances of an accident by 44%. These scenarios, unfortunately, happen. The importance of recommending higher limits of liability along with an umbrella policy to insureds and prospects is crucial in not only protecting your clients but also in protecting your agency against an errors and omissions claim. Having procedures in place to assure that your staff is making higher auto liability and umbrella recommendations, and documenting when a customer declines the coverage, is extremely important. While we hope that a fatal auto accident will never happen to our insureds or ourselves, we have the opportunity to recommend higher limits of coverage and assist our customers in transferring the potential risk to the insurance company, just in case.
UPCOMING EVENTS
For a comprehensive list of all PIA education opportunities, including the 12-14 multiple topic 1-3 hour webinars, and pre-licensing, visit the Education tab at piaw.org.
Agency Operations Webinar (7 WI CE, 1 is Ethics, Utica Approved)
2 Implement for Success (7 WI CE, 2 are Ethics, Utica Approved)
Ruble Webinar (16 WI CE)
Other Personal Lines Solutions - Waukesha (7 WI CE)
1 Position for Success – Green Bay (7 WI CE, 2 are Ethics, Utica Approved)
Casualty – West Bend (16 WI CE)
Commercial Casualty II (7 WI CE)
DIRECTORY PROFESSIONAL INSURANCE AGENTS OF WISCONSIN, INC.
725 HEARTLAND TRAIL, ST. 108 | MADISON, WI 53717 | WWW.PIAW.ORG
President M3 Insurance, Inc. 828 John Nolan Dr. Madison, WI 53713 (608) 288-2874 lacey.endres@m3ins.com
Jon M. Strom Vice President
Image of Wisconsin 201 N. Main St. 4th Floor PO Box 608 Fort Atkinson, WI 53538 (920) 723-1209 jon@imageofwi.com
Octavio Padilla
Treasurer
Nova Insurance LLC 4615 W. National Ave. West Milwaukee, WI 53214 (414) 639-1650 octavia@novaagencies.com
Steve R. Albinger
Secretary Couri Insurance Associates 379 W. Main St. Waukesha, WI 53186 (414) 916-9321 salbinger@couri.com
Directors
Ryan Bedroske
MacGillis Agency Inc. W3934 Cty Hwy H Fredonia, WI 53021 (262) 790-0000 ryan@macgillisinsurance.com
Ryan Butzke, CIC, CISR
Spectrum Insurance Group - Northbrook PO Box 520 Slinger, WI 53086 (262) 783-5533
Steve Clements, CPIA Immediate Past President Clements Insurance Agency 151577 King Fisher Ln. Wausau, WI 54401 (715) 842-1664 steve@clementsagency.com
Mike Endres
Endres Insurance Agency, Inc. 2201 Eulalia Street Cross Plains, WI 53528 (608) 798-3811 mendres@endresinsurance.ne
Alyssa Hobgood
BWO Insurance Group, LLC 7472 S. 6th Street Oak Creek, WI 53154 (414) 768-8100 alyssa@bwoinsurance.com
Eric Lewison, CIC Past President Liaison TRICOR, LLC 313 Oak St. Baraboo, WI 53913 (608) 963-4193 elewison@tricorinsurance.com
Tracy A. Oestreich, CIC, CPIA, AU, CPIW PIA National Director T4 Insurance Solutions, Inc. PO Box 408 Jackson, WI 53037 (262) 423-4949 tracyo@t4ins.com
Luke Strupp, CPIA P+C Insurance Services 405 N. Calhoun Rd., Ste. 20 Brookfield, WI 53005 (262) 784-0990 lstrupp@pcins.com
April Tarras
Advantage Insurance Agency LLC 435 E Mill St Plymouth, WI 53073 (920) 893-3252 april@bwoinsurance.com
Staff
Pete Hanson, CAE, CISR Executive Director phanson@piaw.org
