INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENTS OF SOUTH DAKOTA

APRIL 2013

SPRING IS IN THE AIR !SPRING IS IN THE AIR !

New RV Product Now on Big “I” Markets!

Ready to Roll?

Big “I” Markets has partnered with National Interstate, a premier provider of RV coverage, to bring you access to a product designed specifically for RVs. Why make a personal automobile policy fit when you can access RV Specialty Insurance and deal with RV specialists?

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Full-timers coverage Disappearing deductible Total loss replacement Coverage for Commercial RVs

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BIGIMARKETS

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2013 OFFICERSPRESIDENT

Kathy JohnsonFirst Western Insurance

Rapid City SD

PRESIDENT-ELECTGerrit Juffer

Juffer Inc.Wagner SD

VICE PRESIDENTSteve Walker

First Madison InsuranceMadison SD

SECRETARY-TREASURERAnnette Conway

Western Dakota InsurorsRapid City, SD

PAST PRESIDENTDale Heesch

Dakota Ins AgencyBaltic SD

IIABA STATE NAT’L DIRECTORGary Joyce

Howalt-McDowell Ins. Inc.Sioux Falls SD

2013 DIRECTORSDISTRICT # 1

Jesse KonoldKey Insurance Inc.

Mobridge, SD

DISTRICT # 5Janet Noteboom

The Insurance CenterWinner, SD

DISTRICT # 2Mindy Huntington

Fischer Rounds & Assoc.Watertown SD

DISTRICT # 6Pat Tollefson

Insurance PlusAberdeen SD

DISTRICT # 3Steve Walker

First Madison InsuranceMadison SD

DISTRICT # 7Annette Conway

Western Dakota InsurorsSturgis, SD

DISTRICT # 4Chad Dubisar

Boen & AssociatesSioux Falls SD

DISTRICT # 8Dan Maguire

Black Hills Agency IncRapid City SD

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENTJerry Diamond

IIASDPierre SD

INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENTS OF SOUTH DAKOTA

AT UNITED FIRE GROUP . . .

Independent agents are the backbone of our insurance business. So, when you talk, we listen. Your requests have prompted us to provide real-time technologies for your convenience. We know you have better things to do with your time than perform tedious data entry. That’s why we’re using the latest technology to provide you with real-time access to your customers’ account information on ufgAgent.com.

Transformation Station and Transact Now™ make real-time inquiry available for:

• Policy • Billing • Claims • Loss runs

Renewals, endorsements, new business, cancellations, reinstate ments—automatically downloaded into your agency management system with updates downloaded nightly. Contact our United Fire marketing team at 800-828-2705 to learn more about these real-time technologies. Go ahead . . .we’re listening!

United Fire GroupCedar Rapids, Iowa www.ufgAgent.comFollow us on Facebook!

®

UNITED FIRE AGENT RON HAMMERBERG The Executive Corner

Jerry Diamond, Exec VP

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T P S – What is it???? Do you or any other taxpayer know what TPS stands for? If you don’t you should; it is guaranteed to cost us between $100 and $200 billion each year. TPS stands for Temporary Protected Status program. It’s a Federal Program whereby the Secretary of Homeland Security may designate a foreign country for TPS due to conditions in that country. These conditions can be caused by war, epidemics or a weather- related catastrophe. The United States allows citizens from those affected countries to come to the US to live and even work here until their countries are restored. They are protected from detention or deportation and can travel freely throughout the United States. Sounds like we are a very caring country to help out other foreign countries in this manner. Several big problems exist for taxpayers due to this program. TPS gives these immigrants an array of benefits and one of the new benefits they will be getting is free health care. The same health care program we will be on after October 1st which is regulated by HHS. That means you don’t even have to be a legal immigrant to receive health care. It is estimated that there are hundreds of thousands of foreigners in the US under the protection of the TPS program. Some of them have been here since 1994 and have no plans to become citizens or go back to their countries because life is too good in the United States under the TPS. I see last week , Secretary Janet Napolitano is planning to extend the TPS program to 70,000 Hondurans and Nicaraguans for 18 more months because storm damage reconstruction to their country has not been completed. By the way, the storm was Hurricane Mitch that happened back in 1998. That’s right 1998. Apparently, they work slower on storm relief than we do. Life is even greater in the US when you’re on certain Government programs. Why would anyone want to leave this country?

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E&O EDGE – Carolyn Hofer, E&O AdministratorE&O Loss Control Seminar

E&O Risk Management: Meeting the Challenge of Change

June 3rd – 6th – and October 7th (Crop) Even though our weather feels more like winter – it is the middle of April and the E&O Loss Control seminars are coming up soon. We have a new seminar this year using the module approach which allows us to customize the seminar to address the E&O Claims exposures of our state. Changes to the Loss Control filing in recent years were made after review by the Professional Liability Committee. Those changes include:1.Agencies now have the opportunity to re-qualify for the 10% credit after experiencing a loss. By attending after the loss payment and before your renewal, you can avoid losing the 10 % credit.2.Agency staff required to attend the loss control seminar now includes more producers and CSR’s. Almost 70% of claims involve producers and CSR’s. More involvement by these staff members in loss control seminars should decrease the agency’s risk for experiencing a claim. Recognizing the concerns of travel expenses and keeping agency staff in the office to maintain customer service, online classes were developed to meet the attendance requirement for the producers and CSRs. The following three online classes will be available on the Big “I” Virtual University:1.Guide to Agency E&O Risk Management for Agency Managers2.Guide to Agency E&O Risk Management for Producers 3.Guide to Agency E&O Risk Management for CSRsThe cost for the online course is $65 for members and $95 for non-members. Class requirements include an Exam with no CEC available. Review the Loss Control credit requirements on the registration form towards the end of this newsletter.The 10% premium credit is definitely an incentive to attend; however, keep in mind that this program was designed to provide practical, real-world E&O loss control techniques and provide your agency with the tools to implement these procedures. Don’t miss this opportunity to refresh your focus on imple-menting procedures that will keep you out of court. What a great investment – 6 hours of general continuing education credit for $65 -

Crop Agencies - We recognize the fact that agencies who primarily sell crop insurance have unique exposures for E&O claims and even though most of the topics covered in the seminar can be applied to any line of insurance, we would like to offer a seminar more tailored to crop agents – pinpointing specifically the areas that cause E&O claims.

We also recognize that June is a very busy month for crop agents so we will be offering a Crop AgentE&O seminar on October 7th in Sioux Falls at our Annual Convention. We have moved our Convention to a later date to accommodate crop agents as we have most of the crop companies attending convention and they would like to see more crop agents participate. Crop agents are welcome at the June E&O seminar and this may be a great opportunity to send your office staff in June and your producers in October.

E & O Loss Control Seminars- June 3rd-6th E & O Registration Form- Page 29 Register Online at www.iiasd.org

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/ / / /

Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. and its affiliates, Mayfield Village, OH. Auto insurance prices and products are different when purchased directly from Progressive or through independent agents/brokers. Not available in all states. Market positions from Highline Data’s 2007 written premium data, NAIC 2008 market share data, and 2008 Millward Brown & Harris Interactive survey data. 10A00065.A11 (08/10)

Whether your customers drive it, ride it, or boat it. We can insure it.HELPING YOUR CUSTOMERS FIND THE RIGHT POLICY HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER. Partner with a leader. It’s no secret why drivers use independent agents. You offer quality service, and a convenience second to none. But Progressive can help too. Because Progressive is not only a leader in auto insurance, but also truck, boat, motorcycle and RV. Plus, drivers who switch to Progressive save an average of $550 on their auto insurance. So no matter what you’re helping your customers insure, together — we can help them insure it for less.

Insurers Raise Rates for Large Commercial Accounts

In March, pricing is up 5% for commercial p-c accounts of more than $250,000 in premium.

Property-casualty insurers are shifting away from an aggressive pricing strategy for large commercial accounts, MarketScout says in its latest monthly pricing report. In March, pricing for those accounts was 5% higher on average than the previous year’s rates.

Prior to March, rate increases had been lower for accounts with more than $250,000 in premium, according to MarketScout. In February, rates were 3% greater than February 2012 pricing for accounts with $250,000 to $1 million in premium, and they were 2% higher for accounts with $1 million or more in premium.

“Historically, underwriters have been very aggressive in pricing name brand or large accounts,” Richard Kerr, CEO of the national managing general agent and wholesale broker in Dallas, says in the report. “Other than the cache or bragging rights, there are few sound underwriting reasons for aggressively pricing large accounts.”

“Risk is risk, and exposure is exposure,” he adds. “In March, underwriters more frequently assessed an appropriate premium for large accounts.”

Meanwhile, rates rose 5% for small accounts with $25,000 or less in premium, compared to pricing from the same period a year earlier, and they increased 6% for medium accounts with $25,001 to $250,000 in premium.

Overall, commercial p-c pricing was up 5% on average in March, compared to March 2012, the report says.

Manufacturing led industry pricing increases, with rates up 7% in March compared to those of the same period a year earlier, according to MarketScout. It was followed by contractor, service, habitational and transportation, which were up 5%; and public entity and energy, which were up 4%. By commercial coverage class, annual rate increases in March were greatest at 5% for workers compensation, property, auto and businessowners policies, according to the report. They were followed by general liability, which rose 4%; and business interruption, inland marine, professional liability, directors & officers liability, fiduciary and crime, which were up 3%.

For personal lines, pricing was up 4% on average in March, compared to the previous rates, MarketScout says.

Kerr attributes rising homeowners rates to disaster predictions from catastrophe modeling companies, which “widen the areas that may be impacted by huge storms.”

“Homeowners in non-cat areas, such as New Mexico or Nevada, will enjoy renewals as expiring or perhaps even a slight rate decrease,” he adds. “However, if you live in a state that touches a coastal area, is prone to quakes, hail or tornadoes, you will pay more.”

On average, rates for homes valued at less than $1 million rose 4% on average in March, compared to the previous year’s pricing, while they rose 5% for homes valued at more than $1 million, according to MarketScout.

In contrast, auto rates were only up 2% compared to March 2012—a smaller percentage increase compared to February’s annual pricing hike of 3%, according to the report.

“There are so many solid auto insurers all competing for the monoline auto risk,” Kerr says in the report. “This creates price competition, which results in lower premiums and package discounts for those insureds that place multiple lines with one insurer.”

Article By: Victoria Goff- IA Online Editor

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Kayla’s Technology Advice

How to Recognize Cyber Fraud

By: Kayla LongbrakeAdministrative Coordinator

GreatAmerican Crop.com

Other insurance companies can’t touch our iPAD app!

Our Crop agents can write, sign and submit coverage from the field. Can you?

Great American Insurance Group is an equal opportunity provider. 301 E. Fourth Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202

Fraud is a crime in which the criminal deliberately gives someone false information. This is done in the hopes of inducing the person to give him or her money or valuables. In cyber fraud the Internet or a mobile phone is used to accomplish the goal.

There are many variations of cyber fraud. Three of the most common variants use online auctions, classified ads, and what fbi.com calls the Grandparent Scam.

Classified Ad FraudIn a classified ad fraud, the scammer will post an ad claiming to offer an item for sale. It could be anything imaginable. Cars, collectibles and season tickets are all common offerings. When you reply, the thief will ask you to send money before sending the non-existent item. The thief may use the pretense of needing a partial payment, a service fee or a deposit.

Another common angle is the fake cashier's check. The criminal will ask to send you a cashier's check, often for an amount greater than the sale price. The reason may be that he or she can't cash the check due to being in a foreign country. Sometimes the claim will be that someone who owes him or her money will send the check. They will tell you to deposit the check and send them money. By the time your bank finds out that the cashier's check is no good, the scammer has your money.

Online Auction FraudIn the online auction version, the crime is simple. Someone will list an item for sale that he or she doesn’t have. Instead of accepting PayPal, which carries some buyer protection, the scammer will insist on payment by wire transfer or by Western Union or MoneyGram. Once you send money using one of these methods there is no way to get it back. The cashier’s check scam may also be used here.

The Grandparent ScamThis is an old scam with a new twist. If you are a grandparent, you may receive a phone call, a text message or an email from someone claiming to be your grandchild. Other scenarios include claims to be a friend or another family member. The caller will claim to be in trouble. He or she may claim to be in jail, in a foreign country with no money or have just been robbed.

The scammer will ask for money to be wired. They will often ask you not to tell anyone, because they are ashamed of their situation or don't want to upset anyone else.

The new variation of this crime is the use of social networks. People often put their entire life history on these websites. This makes it easy for the scammer to know who to call and to have information that makes their pitch believable.

The most important tool in avoiding cyber fraud is knowledge. If you know the types of scams that you are likely to encounter, you are less likely to fall for them. Some of these crimes have been around for a long time, like phishing, online auction fraud and classified ad scams. Some use updated methods, like getting information from social media sites. Old or new, these crimes all have one objective. They are designed to take your money.

Article Written By: Adrian Frank

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Omaha Branch: 800.338.9735 | Home Office: Des Moines, IA www.emcins.com© Copyright Employers Mutual Casualty Company 2013 All rights reserved

Cross-Sell Strategy #21EPLI COVERAGE

“ Addressing the growing concerns of clients can grow your business.”

Employee lawsuits are more likely to occur than a fire. Include EMC’s Employment Practices Liability coverage to make certain your clients are protected from all the risks they may face. It’s just one of the many reasons policyholders Count on EMC®.

Riley Tonkin, Omaha Branch Marketing Representative

INSURBANC RESOURCES GROW THROUGH MERGER Bank will have more loan capacity for agencies.

The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) announced on April 5, 2013 that InsurBanc, a federal savings bank based in Farmington, Conn. founded by the Big “I,” is now a division of Connecticut Community Bank N.A. (“CCB”).

InsurBanc's mission will remain the same as when it opened its doors in 2001: to provide the tailored financial products and services that independent insurance agencies and brokers need nationwide to optimize growth opportunities, build value and remain independent.

“InsurBanc’s new structure will strengthen its ability to serve the independent agency system by providing an attractive source of additional capital to lend to agencies across the country, along with offering additional beneficial resources to agents and their businesses,” says Bob Rusbuldt, Big “I” president & CEO. “InsurBanc is better positioned now to serve the growing banking needs of our members and their clients.”

InsurBanc will be led by David W. Tralka, who was InsurBanc’s president and CEO and now is CCB’s president and CEO. In addition, the staff of InsurBanc has become employees of CCB, and will continue providing independent agents the service and expertise they have come to value.

“The business models of InsurBanc and CCB are very complimentary,” says Tralka. “InsurBanc provides banking services, including loans, to independent insurance agencies and brokerages across the United States, while CCB is focused on retail and commercial customers in its local community. The combined entity will have more products and more resources than either institution had on its own.” As a division of CCB, an FDIC insured bank, InsurBanc is the only bank in the United States designed for insurance professionals. InsurBanc was founded by the Independent Insurances Agents & Brokers of America and others committed to the independent agency system. To read more about InsurBanc, visit www.insurbanc.com.

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We are committed to providing employers a stable, long-term product with professional service and expertise.the promise to investigate and pay compensable claimsand get injured employees back to work is our #1 Goal.We can improve employers’ work comp costs in variousways including:

n Stay at WORk/REtuRn tO WORk PROGRaM DEVELOPMEnt

n LOSS PREVEntiOn anD tRaininGn COSt COntainMEnt PROGRaMSn MyRaSSM OnLinE EMPLOyER RESOuRCE ManaGERn LOCaL CLaiMS ManaGEMEnt anD CaSE ManaGEMEnt

Work with us!There is a difference!

www.rascompanies.com800.732.1486

Richard JohnsonPresident and CEO

River Days/Walleye Classic Coming Soon!!!

Happy Spring! Though we can’t quite feel the effects of spring weather, we know it’s quickly approaching. ……as is our River Days/Walleye Classic. Are you interested in spending a great June day in South Dakota on the Missouri River or Oahe Reservoir casting a line for that big walleye?Or, would you rather be slicing the ball at the Hillsview Golf Course – going for the lowest score? For those of you who did not attend our new, revised and combined – River Days/Walleye Classiclast year – it is absolutely the greatest opportunity to take advantage of the beauty and wonders ofthe outdoors in Central South Dakota. We furnish the boats – unless you prefer to bring your own –a central South Dakota fishing guide and all the trimmings. Company representatives join agentsin the boat and on the golf course so it is a great time to meet and build relationships. That isn’t all – we throw in a little education with Sonja Wood from H20 Partners presenting theNational Flood Insurance Certification program – (3 hrs CE) If you haven’t attended a Flood Update or Certification class – now is the time to do it. Be trained and ready to serve your customers. Don’t forget to bring your gun for our great trap shoot. Ammunition is provided and men and women alike are encouraged to take a shot at the flying targets

Registration Form on Page 31 or register online at www.iiasd.org

Mark your calendars June 18th – 19th

Pierre Izaak Walton Clubhouse

Insuring the Midlands Since 1891

Les Hileman, CPCU, AICVice President of Agencies

800-742-7433lhileman@fmne.com

PROVIDING INSURANCE FOR 97 YEARS:

Personal & Commercial Automobile

Farmowners/Ranchowners

Umbrella Liability

Homeowners & Mobilehome

Fire & Allied

Lines

Personal & General Liability

Contact Mel Juran 605-775-2636

Agent & Customer Service

Oriented

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS FOR 2013

April 16th-20thLegislative Conference

Washington, DC

June 3rd-6thE & O Seminars

Rapid City, Pierre, Aberdeen, Sioux Falls

June 18th-19thRiver Days/Walleye Classic

Pierre,SD

August 22ndFall Crop Seminar

Pierre, SD

October 6th-8thBoard Meeting & Annual Convention

Sioux Falls, SD

November 13th-14thBoard Retreat

CELEBRATING ONE BILLION IN WRITTEN PREMIUM!

www.acuity.com

facebook.com/acuitywowFor All That Matters

$1,000,000,000

DOUBLE DIGIT GROWTH has pushed ACUITY over the $1 billion revenue mark! In the past 14 years, we’ve quadrupled our written premium and you are responsible for that. Thank you! We have the agents, employees, and strategic plan to allow our growth to keep compounding on the path to becoming a multibillion-dollar insurer.

Swiss Re recognized for ethical practices . . .

It was recently announced that Swiss Re – one of IIASD’s premier providers of errors and omissions

insurance (Westport), was recognized as one of the “World’s Most Ethical Companies” for 2013 by

Ethisphere. The designation recognizes companies that promote ethical business standards

and practices internally, exceed legal compliance minimums and shape future industry standards.

To get a quote or find out more about this E&O program through IIASD, contact Carolyn Hofer at

chofer@iiasd.org. or call 605-224-6234.

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CELEBRATING ONE BILLION IN WRITTEN PREMIUM!

www.acuity.com

facebook.com/acuitywowFor All That Matters

$1,000,000,000

DOUBLE DIGIT GROWTH has pushed ACUITY over the $1 billion revenue mark! In the past 14 years, we’ve quadrupled our written premium and you are responsible for that. Thank you! We have the agents, employees, and strategic plan to allow our growth to keep compounding on the path to becoming a multibillion-dollar insurer.

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Northern States Agency, a Managing General Agency & Wholesale Broker for over 55 years, providing a wide range of commercial insurance:

General Liability Property Garage Commercial Auto Excess Auto Workers Compensation

Our underwriters average over 10 years experience with NSASame day or next day response on submissionsGreat Service, Great Products, Great People

2145 Ford Parkway, Suite 202 St. Paul, MN 55116

P: 800-328-0828 • F: 651-646-1971 www.nsa-mga.com

We are known for transportation, BUT… Did you know we have a FULL HOUSE?

Inland Marine & Cargo Umbrella & Excess Professional Liability Miscellaneous E & O Directors & Officers

Your TOTAL Solutions Provider

2013 Fire Department Grant Programfunded by

IIASD Service Corporation

IIASD Board of Directors strongly supports the ongoing Fire Department Grant Program. In 2011, we were fortunate to be a part of distributing a $5,000 Fireman’s Fund Grant to Vale Fire Department. In support of the service and protection the South Dakota Fire Departments provide to our industry and communities, the IIASDBoard voted to continue this program in 2012 with two $5,000 grants awarded – one to Chamberlain/OacomaFire Department and another to Philip Fire Department.

This year, we have partnered with the State Fire Marshal’s Office in supporting the Firefighter Essentials Grant Program. This program provides revenue to support fire safety and education programs for firefighters in SD. Funding on the state level comes from fees paid by cigarette manufacturers to the fire safety standard act fund created by the 2009 SD Legislature. The IIASD Service Corporation grant will provide a match of $750 to each of 13 classes to help defray expenses such as books, manuals and instructor fees fire departments incur when they host a Firefighter Essentials class. The IIASD grant funding is made possible by membership participation in our IIASD Errors & Omissions Program. We will be contacting IIASD Agent members in communities of hosting fire departments to coordinate grant awards.

The cooperative partnership with the State Fire Marshal’s office this year is an effort to make a greater impact and spread the funding to more fire departments. We would like to thank Paul Merriman and his staff at the State Fire Marshal’s Office for allowing us to be a part of this grant program. Most of all, we want to say “Thank You” to all of the dedicated fire fighters who protect our communities.

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www.iiaba.net/Flood

Just a guppy

when it comes to selling flood?

Don’t be shy - Big “I” Flood is here to help.There’s a lot to understand when it comes to flood insurance. We admit it! From changing flood zones to determining the best level of protection for our client, there is a lot to navigate. So even though you’re a big fish when it comes to selling other coverages, flood can make you feel like a guppy! But don’t let this prevent you from offering flood coverage to your clients. We’re here to help you understand and sell flood.

Big “I” Flood provides:ACCESS - In, Above & Outside of the NFIP!EDUCATION - Classroom CE or the new Flood Learning Center on VUADVOCACY - Representation on Capitol Hill & NFIP advisory committees

Learn more at www.iiaba.net/Flood, or contact Big “I” Flood Program Manager Linda Mackey at linda.mackey@iiaba.net or (800) 221-7917. Let us explain how we operate in, above, and outside the NFIP!

sure, we do the adjust ing for insurance cla ims,

but we are really in the business of of ering

peace of mind

w i t h 1 0 o f f i c e s t o serve y o u :ABERDEEN(605) 225-0725 dcsaberdeen@dakotaclaims.com

CHAMBERLAIN/AINSWORTH, NE(605) 734-6011 dcschamberlain@dakotaclaims.com

HURON(605) 352-5000 dcshuron@dakotaclaims.com

MOBRIDGE(605) 224-6155 dcspierre@dakotaclaims.com

PIERRE(605) 224-6155 dcspierre@dakotaclaims.com

RAPID CITY(605) 343-3764 dcsrapidcity@dakotaclaims.com

SIOUX FALLS(605) 338-3561 dcssiouxfalls@dakotaclaims.com

SPEARFISH(605) 642-4769 dcsspearfish@dakotaclaims.com

WATERTOWN(605) 886-2318 dcswatertown@dakotaclaims.com

YANKTON(605) 665-3886 dcsyankton@dakotaclaims.com

www.dakotaclaims.com

sure, we do the adjust ing for insurance cla ims,

but we are really in the business of of ering

peace of mind

w i t h 1 0 o f f i c e s t o serve y o u :ABERDEEN(605) 225-0725 dcsaberdeen@dakotaclaims.com

CHAMBERLAIN/AINSWORTH, NE(605) 734-6011 dcschamberlain@dakotaclaims.com

HURON(605) 352-5000 dcshuron@dakotaclaims.com

MOBRIDGE(605) 224-6155 dcspierre@dakotaclaims.com

PIERRE(605) 224-6155 dcspierre@dakotaclaims.com

RAPID CITY(605) 343-3764 dcsrapidcity@dakotaclaims.com

SIOUX FALLS(605) 338-3561 dcssiouxfalls@dakotaclaims.com

SPEARFISH(605) 642-4769 dcsspearfish@dakotaclaims.com

WATERTOWN(605) 886-2318 dcswatertown@dakotaclaims.com

YANKTON(605) 665-3886 dcsyankton@dakotaclaims.com

www.dakotaclaims.com

Commercial | Personal | Professional | Brokerage | Binding | Risk Management Services

P E R S O N A L I N S U R A N C E

When it comes to placing personal insurance for high-net-worth clients, your success is our success.

Grow your business by partnering with Burns & Wilcox. By working with our Elite Client Solutions team, you do not have to turn away clients: We have the products to cover all their needs. Our high-net-worth specialists have the expertise to create personalized solutions. Plus, our unrivaled access to markets allows us to create solutions with speed and diligence. Making personal insurance even more personal is what Burns & Wilcox does best as the largest independent wholesale broker.

Minneapolis, Minnesota | 612.564.1880 | toll free 800.328.1693fax 612.564.1881 | minneapolis.burnsandwilcox.com

32199_BURNS_MN1_IIASD_Personal_APPROVED.indd 1 1/10/13 10:11 AM

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“Insuring Homes, Farms, Businesses and Autos”

“A Personable Company Keeping You on Course’’

www.nstarco.com1-800-622-5230

Box 48 Cottonwood, Minnesota 56229

Rated “A+ Superior”

Offered Exclusively Through Independent Agents

Dues Deductibility:Dues to the Independent Insurance Agents of

South Dakota are not deductible as a charitable contribution but may be deductible as an ordinary

and necessary business expense.

For the Fiscal Year of 2012

77.71% is deductible as a business expense for your taxes.

22.29% is not deductible for taxes because that is the percentage that National uses for Lobbying.

If you have any questions please call 703-706-5456.

totallyA R E YO UWORRY FREE?

West Des Moines, ioWA • 800.274.3531 • WWW.iMtins.coM

WWW.IMTINS.COM

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Scobie Group 1501 42nd St, Suite 100

West Des Moines, IA 1-800-475-1000 www.fwins.com

Scobie Group 14748 West Center Rd, Suite 202

Omaha, NE 1-800-825-4855 www.fwins.com

Sentry Knows TruckingSentry understands trucking is your number one priority. That’s why we constantly review and enhance our coverages to provide you with the insurance protection you need.

Some of the important coverages we offer include:

• Unlimited towing coverage

• Pollution liability

• Unladen liability

• Enhanced deductible options

• Non-trucking liability

• Blanket additional insured endorsement

• Cargo pollution cleanup

• Accident travel coverage

• Workers’ compensation coverage

Learn more about the products and services Sentry provides. Call today.

Property and casualty coverages are underwritten by a member of the Sentry Insurance Group, Stevens Point, WI. For a complete listing of companies, visit sentry.com. Policies, coverages, benefits and discounts are not available in all states. See policy for complete coverage details.

688225 05/26/11

Ringwalt & Liesche

Tired of waiting for the market to change?

Send your submissions to: RL@nationalindemnity.comP: 800-708-7448 • F: 402-916-3333 • www.Ringwalt.com

At Ringwalt & Liesche, we’re not waiting around. We’re proud to be an agency that can offer stability regardless of market conditions. Check out our website at Ringwalt.com to learn more, or just give us a call - we’d love to hear from you! • Commercial Auto

• Garage Liability

• General Liability

• Commercial Property

• Workers’ Comp

• Motor Truck Cargo

• Prize Indemnification

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Through the MRP, Trusted Choice® agencies can earn up to $500 to go towards marketing expenses incurred in 2013 by Trusted Choice® Agencies in rebranding materials such as business cards, letterhead, envelopes, agency signage, logo-wear and in creating an on-line presence, among others, to include the Trusted Choice® logo.There are three guiding principles of the Marketing Reimbursement Plan:- Allows for any activity involving Trusted Choice logo in external messaging with consumer impact- Application must provide reasonable documentation that an expense was incurred and paid- The expense is reasonably correlated to the external messaging and consumer impact.Am I eligible?The MRP is open only to agencies in good standing with Trusted Choice®. Agencies that have multiple locations can apply for each location separately.There are limited funds available; therefore, Trusted Choice® will offer reimbursements on a firstcome first-served basis until funds allocated to the MRP are exhausted. Provided funds are still available, you have through January 2014 to submit materials invoiced in 2013.How do I apply?First, review these guidelines. If you are unsure about an item or use of the logo, or want to get preapproval of an item or proof prior to printing, email us at Trusted.Choice@iiaba.net. Then, fill out the application. Mail or email your application along with the required supporting materials.

Additional information on hyperlinking your website to Trusted Choice, use of a free consumer content stream (RSS Feed) on your website, and the Marketing Reimbursement Program application is available at www.iiaba.net/agents.

You will need your username and password to log in. Call us at605-224-6234 or email us at klongbrake@iiasd.org if you need assistance.

Trusted Choice® Marketing Reimbursement Program... Back for 2013

18

NEW MEMBERS CORNER:

Meet new members of our AssociationWe look forward to providing services to:

Member Agencies:

Art Sieler & Associates, LLCHuron, SD

Principal- Art Sieler

Associate Member Agencies

Breske Crop InsuranceWebster, SD

Principal- Tim Breske

Ponce Enterprises LLCSioux Falls, SD

Principal- Denise Ponce

Hoxeng Crop Insurance LLCVolin, SD

Principal- David Hoxeng

Join us in welcoming them to IIASD!

Not sure where to turn for Commercial Auto insurance?

Let the insurance experts at E&L show you the way.

www.ericksonlarseninc.com

Maple Grove, MN 800-442-3168

Fargo, ND 800-284-0965

Madison, WI 888-249-6050

www.nwgf.com INSURANCE FOR: Homeowners Farmowners Modular Homeowners Personal Auto Farm Property Dwelling Property Mobile Homes Excess Liability Farm and Personal Liability Classic Vehicle Semi-Truck

BIG “I” APPLAUDS NCOIL’S RESOLUTION REGARDING PPACA EXCHANGE NAVIGATOR PROGRAMS

National legislator organization calls for state oversight of navigators and similar entities.

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 11, 2013 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) applauds the National Conference of Insurance Legislators (NCOIL) for adopting a resolution urging local policymakers to establish state-based regulatory frameworks for navigators and in-person assisters during NCOIL’s spring meeting.

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) requires the establishment of health insurance exchanges in every state by Oct. 1, 2013, and the law requires every exchange – whether state-based or federally-operated – to have a navigator program. Navigators must comply with any licensing, certification or other standards required by states, and the ‘Resolution Regarding Health Benefit Exchange Navigator Programs’ urges states to utilize their authority to ensure that navigators are subject to the jurisdiction and oversight of state officials.

“The Big ‘I’ welcomes NCOIL’s recommendations concerning navigators and strongly agrees that states are best suited to oversee this new category of entity and protect consumers,” says Wes Bissett, Big “I” outside senior counsel, government affairs. “Ensuring that there is proper scrutiny over navigator qualifications and behavior is good public policy.”

In the resolution, NCOIL noted that “[t]he failure of a state to establish an appropriate licensing and oversight structure for navigators and similar assisters will result in a regulatory vacuum that leaves these individuals and entities outside of the jurisdiction of state officials and the state insurance code and makes consumers vulnerable.” The document also urges states to enact a licensing framework and regulatory regime for navigators that includes the following elements:

•Defines the permitted scope of a navigator and assister's activities and prohibits them from recommending particular health plans, offering advice about which health plan to choose, and engaging in similar activities;

• Includes appropriate and meaningful training, continuing education and examination requirements;

• Ensures that navigators are subject to the jurisdiction of state officials and the state insurance code, including privacy, market conduct and unfair trade practices acts;

• Enables regulators to take enforcement action - such as assessing fines or suspending or revoking a license-when navigators engage in improper conduct, commit fraud, or violate state marketplace and consumer protection requirements;

• Requires prospective navigators and similar assisters to undergo criminal and regulatory background screening; •Makes navigators and similar assisters responsible and legally liable for their actions and establishes financial responsibility requirements to ensure that consumers are made whole whenever wrongful or negligent acts arecommitted; • Establishes any other appropriate and relevant consumer protection and market conduct standards;

• Ensures that navigators and similar assisters receive the due process protections afforded to other insurance licensees; and

• Encourages the use of veterans for navigator positions.

Addressing and improving the navigator program has been a Big “I” priority since the enactment of the PPACA.

“The Big ‘I’ supports NCOIL’s resolution and the individual efforts of numerous states to improve the navigator program and ensure that consumers are protected,” says Charles Symington, Big “I” senior vice president of external and government affairs. “This is a perfect example of the many challenges presented by the PPACA and NCOIL’s constructive efforts to improve the law’s implementation are appreciated.”

20

FLOOD UPDATE

Spring FloodingSpring weather patterns can increase the risk of flooding. Flood insurance will help cover your clients from spring flooding, which can be caused by spring thaw, heavy rains, rapid snowmelt, and flash floods. It is important that flood insurance is in place before the spring flood season begins. Typically, there is a 30-day waiting period on new flood insurance policies, so the time to act is now.

Spring ThawDuring the spring, frozen land prevents melting snow or rainfall from seeping into the ground. Each cubic foot of compacted snow contains gallons of water and once the snow melts, it can result in the overflow of streams, rivers and lakes. Add spring storms to that and the result is often serious, spring flooding. Heavy RainsSeveral areas of the country are at heightened risk for flooding due to heavy rains. This excessive amount of rainfall can happen throughout the year, putting your property at risk.SnowmeltA midwinter or early spring thaw can produce large amounts of runoff in a short period of time. Because the ground is hard and frozen, water cannot penetrate and be reabsorbed. The water then runs off the surface and flows into lakes, streams and rivers, causing excess water to spill over their banks.Flash FloodsA flash flood is a rapid flooding of low-lying areas in less than six hours, which is caused by intense rainfall from a thunderstorm or several thunderstorms. Flash floods can also occur from the collapse of a man-made structure or ice dam.Marketing

Pre-Licensing Class Announcement

IIASD and A.D. Banker of the Dakotas Have Partnered

We are excited to announce that IIASD and A.D. Banker of the Dakota have partnered to provide insurance and securi-ties licensing preparation classes and materials at a 15% IIASD Member Discount. A.D. Banker offers Exam Prep classes each month in Sioux Falls and quarterly classes in Rapid City.

Class schedules are listed at: www.adbanker.com/dakotas

Self-study and online study options for Exam Prep are also available. Materials and classroom instruction have been very successful with an average of 95% of students taking their license exam passing on the first try!Sandy Kost is the Owner/Managing Director of A.D. Bank-ers of the Dakotas and has worked in the insurance and financial services industry since 1988. She has worked with insurance agents, investment reps, agencies and banks in SD, ND, NE, IA, MN and WI. She has provided training on various products and topics.To register for a class or to order materials, go to:www.adbanker.com/dakotasCall: 605-271-4440 or 877-317-3087. Be sure to use the IIASD Promo/Discount Code to receive your 15% Member Discount. Promo Code: 1594626

PO Box 89846 Sioux Falls, SD 57109-9846

P. 605.361.5705 or 866.440.1840E. beth.dobbs@insurancealt.com

WHOLESALE ACCESS toFirst Dakota Indemnity and Dakota Truck Underwriters,known as the Dakota Group. The DakotaGroup is the largest writers of workers’compenation business in South Dakotaand a leading writer in the Midwest.

Contractors

Healthcare

Hospitality

Manufacturing

Retail

providing workers’ compensation solutions

IIASD 2011 in color FINAL_Layout 1 10/27/2011 3:22 PM Page 1

21

Austin Mutual Insurance Company’s rich tradition and strong South Dakota presence set us apart from other property/casualty carriers.

As the newest affiliate of super regional The Main Street America Group, our two companies are committed to providing you with commercial and personal lines, as well as fidelity and surety bond, products that are competitive in the marketplace.

The Right Mix

Need More information? Call (800) 328-4628 or Visit www.msagroup.com

www.msagroup.com

22

STeAdY ANd True

No company understands the insurance needs of

truckers more than Truckers Insurance Associates

— created by truckers for truckers. And for 60 years,

Truckers Insurance has remained solely focused on

transportation industry insurance. So whether your

clients include a single owner-operator or a full-fledged

fleet, Truckers Insurance will deliver the right coverage at

the right price. Even more, as trucking specialists, we’re

ready to respond rapidly when needs arise. That’s service

you can count on. That’s putting know-how to work.

That’s Truckers Insurance. Call your Truckers Insurance

account manager at 800.652.9515 for a quote today. WE DELIVER MORE

www.truckers-insurance.com 800.652.9515

driven

New Branch Office in Rapid City, SD Bruce Eleeson John Keffeler

Milo Schindler, Auto Appr Ph: 605-791-5565

Assignments: claims@claimsassoc.com

We commit ourselves to providing you with the highest quality claims and case management services available in our industry. We appreciate your continued support and look forward to serving your needs. Please visit our website for a directory of our staff, services, and coverage area.

Jeff Jares, AIC AIM President

Adjusters

Nancy Almendinger SCLA SDWCS Jennifer Andrisen Selzler, Mgr. SCLA AIC CSRP SDWCS

Bill Blackman AIC Lynn Bren SCLA AIC Ron Burmood MBA AIC Kay Greve AIC, INS Dave Johnston SCLA Jerry Matthiesen AIC Chad Moore Wendi Peterson AIC Kimberly Rausch SDWCS Dave Sendelbach CPCU AIC Karl Weber SCLA AIC Tim Wieker SCLA AIC HCRI-R Amy Kvernmo Christopher W. Madsen J.D. Erin Williams SCLA Justine Frank WCLS

Case Managers Donna Passick RN CCM Kelly Rud RN BA LNCC Deb Whipple RN BA CCM Brenda Whiting RN CCM

Lori Schaefbauer RN BSN CCM

23

FRAUD CONVICTIONS

FRAUD CHARGES

Nothing can restore the disaster that befell Disaster Restoration, Inc. Two contractors running the Denver firm bilked insurers out of nearly $500,000. Charles Homer Sharp and Michael Arthur Griggs employed subcontractors who were told to submit two bids for each job. One bid normally was inflated by 20 to 30 percent, the other was honest. The pair submitted the inflated bids to insurers for payment but paid the subcontractor the non-inflated amounts. The firm’s owner Griggs received 50 months in federal prison Wednesday. He also must pay nearly $977,650 in fines and restitution. Sharp received three years Tuesday.

Heavy snow supposedly collapsed a patio roof at the home of Keith Scribner’s mother. The Spokane, Washington man helped her with the claim. He lied to the insurer that the patio cover was large, spanning the whole patio and wrapping around the home’s chimney. Scribner sent Liberty Mutual three replacement bids of $195,586 to $213,815. The claims rep initially thought the bids were a practical joke. Liberty Mutual then asked for photos of the cover or snow damage. Scribner said he had no photos. But a claims handler found an image of the home on a real estate website. It showed a much more modest patio cover. The insurer began investigating and notified the Washington fraud bureau, which investigated further. A home appraiser had photographed the patio cover despite Scribner’s denial, investigators discovered. And a real estate agent interviewed by investigators described the cover as being “small and nothing special or significant.” Investigators asked a local builder for sample replacement bids. They ranged from $3,913 to $4,782. Scribner was convicted and will be sentenced in April.

A cocaine conviction did not stop chiropractor Eric Barker from illicitly billing the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. His certification to serve bureau clients was yanked for four years after he was handed three years for possessing cocaine with intent to distribute. The Riverside man simply assumed another chiropractor’s name and identity and racked up nearly $8,600 in illegally billings, the bureau determined. An anonymous tipster ended Barker’s plot.

He received five years of community control, and must repay the stolen insurance money plus $8,000 for investigative costs.

Judith Hawkey convinced her 10-year-old stepson to shoot his father for an insurance payout, Ohio prosecutors charge. Robert Breininger was found dead in his Toledo-area home with a gunshot wound to his head. Officials initially ruled the shooting an accident. Hawkey faces insurance-fraud charges plus potential life in prison if convicted of murder charges. More details to come as the trial unfolds.

A New York insurance agent figured she knew the ins and outs of the business well enough to bilk it. Sonja R. Sweeney falsely reported furniture and other itemsstolen from her home, prosecutors say. The Nornell woman was charged with third-degree insurance fraud, a felony. Sweeny is battling health problems that have delayed her case, though she no longer facesfelony charges. The case has been hit by frequent delays, and prosecutors and defense attorneys blame each other for some of the problems. Her case remains pending.

Why American West Insurance?• Local company with over 60

years agriculture insurance

experience

• Quality products

• Competitive pricing

• Expert claims and

underwriting services

Be Protected. Be Sure®.

yourawi.comTo learn more about AWI contact Bruce Meyer at bmeyer@yourawi.com or call 605-929-2782.

Agribusiness • Farm & Ranch • Farm & Ranch Auto • Personal Auto Excess Liability • Watercraft • Crop-Hail • Multi-Peril

24

Big “I” members whose agency E&O

insurance is written by Swiss Re through

the Big “I” Professional Liability Program

have access to an exclusive risk

management web site.

Log on today to fish for E&O claims

frequency data, real-life case studies and

analysis, sample client letters, sample

agency procedures, agency E&O self

assessments, podcasts on important

E&O topics, and much more.

DON’T GET BITTENBY AN E&O CLAIM YOU COULD HAVE AVOIDED.

Failing to procure coverage requested by the client

Not adequately identifying client exposures

Failing to provide timely notice of a claim to the carrier

Misrepresenting or not explaining policy provisions

Providing inaccurate information to carriers

Failing to properly add additional insureds or loss payees

DON’T BE ON THE HOOK FOR:

www.independentagent.com/EOHappens

Big “I” Risk Management Website

WANTED TO BUY:

Small to medium size Agency in or around Sioux Falls

Please send all confidential inquiries to :

Independent Insurance Agents of South Dakota

PO Box 327Pierre, SD 57501

Virtual UniversityOnline Courses: The VU offers a wide variety of online classes to enhance and expand insurance and business technical skills. Research Library: For those who seek a smarter way to research, the VU provides access to hundreds of articles about insurance, business and technology written by volunteer faculty who are experts in the industry. Technical insurance articles often include links to full sample ISO forms, white papers and other articles on issues affecting today’s insurance marketplace.Expert Advice: When you need answers to questions that can’t be found in the research library – you just need to “Ask an Expert”. IIABA has assembled a faculty of leading experts from around the country and Big I Members can submit questions to our “Expert Service” and a response comes within 3-5 business days – often sooner.

All of this can be accessed at:www.iiaba.net/vu

25

Independent Insurance AgentPosition available in Miller, SD

Hand County Insurance Agency, an established and growinginsurance agency is searching for a sales focused individualwho is interested in becoming a full time Crop/Hail andProperty & Casualty Agent. Must be inspired to achieveexcellence in their daily sales activities, enjoy working in ateam atmosphere, possess organization and communicationskills, and have knowledge of agriculture. The ability to obtainthe appropriate licenses within 120 days from hire is required.Will train the right candidate. Salary DOQ. Benefit packageprovided. High school or secondary education degree required.

Please forward cover letter

and resume to: EOE.

Hand County InsuranceATTN President PO Box 317 Miller, SD 57362

Words of Wisdom

So why is a car’s WINDSHIELDso large and the Rear View

Mirror so small ? Because our PAST is not as important as our FUTURE. So, Look Ahead and

move on.

Friendship is like a BOOK. It takes few minutes to burn, but it

takes years to write.

All things in life are temporary. If going well, enjoy it, they will not last forever. If going wrong, don’t worry, they can’t last long either.

WORRYING does not take away tomorrow’s TROUBLES, it takes

away today’s PEACE.

F A R M E R S M U T U A L O F N E B R A S K A

I N S U R I N G T H E M I D L A N D S S I N C E 1 8 9 1 .

Farmers Mutual Insurance Company of Nebraska is proud to be a platinum sponsor for the Independent Insurance Agents of South Dakota and a strong supporter of the independent agency system. Since the founding of our company in 1891, we have distributed our insurance products exclusively through the independent agency system.

Farmers Mutual was originally founded under the premise that those providing the insurance coverage should remain in touch with the requirements of those who need and purchase it. Over the years, this close relationship between the Company and its market has produced a unique and responsive insurer whose policies and rating procedures have always been tailored to the needs of the policyholders that it serves. This could not have been accomplished without the outstanding contribution of the professional independent agents that have represented our company.

In these uncertain economic times, it is important for consumers to seek insurance protection from a company having the strongest possible financial resources and security. We are proud that Farmers Mutual has always been that company and we are thankful for the outstanding relationship that we have enjoyed with the over 400 independent agents representing our company in the state of South Dakota. We thank you for your partnership and we look forward to serving the needs of your customers, and our policyholders, together.

The Five Biggest Sales Mistakes Insurance Agents MakeBy: John Chapin

Of all the sales mistakes insurance agents make, the five discussed here are by far the most critical. Side step these by being aware of them and using the recommendations below and you will be well on your way to success.

Five Sales Mistakes Insurance Agents Make

Mistake #1: No accountability to a plan of actionIt’s important to have daily, weekly, monthly and yearly goals regarding the number of calls, number of contacts, number of appointments, and number of sales you need to make, and you must push yourself to meet those goals on a daily basis. Equally as important, there needs to be accountability to that plan.

In addition to holding yourself accountable, you have to have someone else, preferably a manager or boss, holding you accountable to ensure you don’t let yourself slide. Review your numbers daily and have your manager look at them weekly. If you are not hitting those numbers, sit down with your manager and make the necessary adjustments. In this case, your manager should be reviewing your numbers daily until you are on track.

If you manage agents, it’s a good idea to have numbers posted during sales meetings for all the agents to see. This will serve as extra incentive for agents to work hard and stay on track. This one item alone has been shown to instantly increase office production by an average of 18%.

Mistake #2: No follow through, no follow upIt’s important to have a system in place that keeps you organized and ensures you follow up and follow through on commitments to prospects and customers. Doing what you say you’ll do, when you say you’ll do, builds instantly credibility. Not doing so, immediately destroys credibility.

In addition to follow through on commitments, it’s also important to return phone calls, e-mails and other communications promptly. Forget the old 24-hour rule. With the speed of business these days, you need to think in minutes and hours. The longest anyone should have to wait for a return phone call or communication from you is an hour or two. Yes, even on weekends and evenings. The longer you wait to communicate, the greater the chance something bad will happen. Your objective is to be known as someone who is super responsive, reliable, a person of your word, and as someone who is almost always available.

Mistake #3: Wasting time and majoring in minor thingsAnything other than servicing current customers, reviewing current coverage, cross-selling, and pursuing new business are minor things. These minor items include: reviewing a customer file before you contact them, driving to and from appointments, handling the paperwork, and all other items that do not involve interaction with a prospect or customer, potentially leading to addition business.

Don’t get me wrong, those items are important, but they are still minor. The mistake that most agents make is that, in addition to spending too much time on these minor items, they also waste a lot of time looking for things on their messy desk, chatting with friends and colleagues, checking e-mail, taking multiple coffee breaks, and, in general, finding things to do other than calling on prospects and customers. Your highest priority, the only time that really counts, is the time you spend with prospects and customers.

Mistake #4: Focusing on new business at the expense of current customersYour long-term business success will come down to your ability to acquire, maintain, and solidify customer relationships. If you get enough customers and treat them right, your business will be fine. If you focus only on chasing new business, taking existing customers for granted and failing to nurture those relationships, you will always have to make tons of contacts to replace the current customers you’re losing. That is a recipe for frustration and failure.

Every day you have to carve out some time to work on solidifying relationships with current customers. This involves phone calls, in-person visits, and other ways of reaching out. In addition to sending birthday, holiday, anniversary, and thank-you cards, look for other creative ways to keep your name in front of customers. Perhaps you send an article or book on an area of interest, or send a gift for a special occasion. The key here is to stay in touch and keep the lines of communication open. Most customer issues begin with a lack of communication.

Finally, don’t ever take your current customers for granted or let service slip. While it’s important to get new business, your current customers are your number one priority.

Mistake #5: Pointing the finger elsewhereMany times when sales are off, a deal falls through, or we are otherwise unsuccessful, we place blame on factors other than ourselves. It is imperative to accept responsibility for your results. If things aren’t working out, why aren’t they working out? Are you sticking to your daily plan? Are you effectively handling all aspects of your business from finding leads to servicing customers well and making them happy? Where are you having some success and where do you need some work?

You should always be growing and improving in the areas of personal and professional development. This becomes even more important when you are struggling. Keep in mind that ultimately success and failure come down to you. Whatever issue or problem you are having, others have been in a worse position than you and have still been successful.

For access to John Chapin’s free monthly newsletter, go to: http://www.completeselling.com

John is an award-winning sales speaker, trainer and coach. With over 24 years of sales he is a number one sales rep in three industries, and author of the gold-medal winning “Sales Encyclopedia”.

For permission to reprint, or if you have sales questions, e-mail: johnchapin@completeselling.com. John ChapinComplete Selling, Inc.Helping you find and get all the business you wantCell: 508-243-7359johnchapin@completeselling.comwww.completeselling.com

E&O Risk Management: Meeting the Challenge of Change

JUNE 3, 4, 5 & 6, 2013

6 Hours Continuing Education Credits (L/H or P/C)(pending)

June 3, 2013 - Monday Rapid City, Ramkota– 2111 N LaCrosse St 605-343-8550 June 4, 2013 - Tuesday Pierre, Ramkota– 920 W Sioux Ave 605-224-6877 June 5, 2013 - Wednesday Aberdeen, Ramkota – 1410 8th Ave NW 605-229-4040 June 6, 2013 - Thursday Sioux Falls, Ramkota – 3200 West Maple St 605-336-0650

Registration 8:30 Class 9:00 - 3:30

$65.00 for Members - $80.00 for Non-members (Fee includes coffee, rolls, lunch and materials)

This Seminar is designed to provide practical, real-world E&O loss prevention techniques along with resources and tools to implement these procedures. Participants will be instructed on how to handle potential claims and alerted to recent agency E&O trends. INSTRUCTOR: Casey Roberts of Lincoln, CA, is the principal of Laurus Insurance Consulting. A veteran of over 35 years in the insurance industry, he brings a practical, professional, well-rounded approach to loss control within the agency setting. His background includes numerous years as a broker/agent, primarily with independent insurance agencies. He instructs classes in all line of insurance including agribusiness, personal and commercial lines. HOW TO QUALIFY FOR IIASD LOSS CONTROL CREDIT: An insured who obtains their professional liability coverage for insur-ance producers through the IIASD sponsored programs will earn a percentage credit on their total annual premium if they attend an approved loss control seminar and remain loss free after attending. On-line course attendance is allowed for 50% of total attendees required.

LOSS CONTROL CREDIT REQUIREMENTS Agency Size Required Attendance Total Attendees Required

1 1 active agency principal, owner, partner or officer 1

2-7 1 active agency principal, owner, partner or officer and 1 producer or CSR 2

8-20 1 active agency principals, owner, partners or officers & 1 active agency principals, owners, partners, officers, operations managers or producer and 2 producers or CSRs

4

21-50 1 active agency principal, owner, partner or officer & 1 active agency principal, own-er, partner, officer, operations manager or producer & 1 CSR and 3 producers or CSRs

6

51+ 1 active agency principal, owner, partner or officer & 2 active agency principals, own-ers, partners, officers, operations managers or producers & 2 CSRs and 5 producers or CSRs

10

Payment must be received with registration. Send form in with payment or you can also go to www.iiasd.org and register online.

------------------------------------------------------------(Clip & Save Upper Portion)-------------------------------------------------------

2013 E&O LOSS CONTROL SEMINAR

NAME/NAMES: _________________________________________________________________________________ AGENCY/COMPANY: _____________________________________________ CITY: __________________________ E-Mail: ____________________________________________________ PHONE: _________________________ I/we will attend at the following location: $65 for each IIASD Member _____ June 3 Rapid City, Ramkota $80 for each Non-Member _____ June 4 Pierre, Ramkota

_____ June 5 Aberdeen, Ramkota Amount enclosed $ ______________ _____ June 6 Sioux Falls, Ramkota

Return to IIASD Box 327 Pierre SD 57501

605-224-6234 (phone) 605-224-6235 (fax) chofer@iiasd.org

Dedicated to Protecting OthersInsurance Career Lasts Over Half a Century

Carol Barge was honored on April 5th at a well-earned retirement party hosted by Security InsuranceGroup, Inc. and The Ag Agency. Not many can say we have worked in the same career for over 50 years and more importantly, can declare that we are still “loving it”. Carol was honored by visits from many of her loyal customers that she developed over the years by providing personal servicein handling their insurance needs and taking the time to get to know each one of them ancaring about their welfare.

Carol shared how she started out in the business working for the Moore Agency in Blunt and joked that she knew every person in that small community. When the Moore Agency was sold to Wright-Way Agency, she moved with it and worked for a number of agencies before settling in at SecurityInsurance Agency in Ft. Pierre, SD. Bob Gilkerson and Vern Armstrong recently purchased Security Insurance Agency and again, Carol moved along with it. Even though she has retired, she can’t quite cut all the ties – she has promised to help with the transition at Security Insurance Group by working as a consultant.

She has worked in all aspects of the business – bookkeeping, customer service representative,claims, producer and a lot of the time – she had to do several of these jobs at the same time.Listening to her reminisce, there was one common theme – “I just loved doing it”.

HAPPY RETIREMENT CAROL !

RIVER DAYS/ WALLEYE CLASSIC CONFERENCE

June 18th & 19th, 2013 – Pierre

3 hours of Flood CEC

YOUNG AGENTS COMMITTEE WELCOMES YOU TO THE IIASD’S RIVER DAYS/ WALLEYE CLASSIC This is a must attend event for our IIASD members! Our Young Agents Committee has put together a great combination of recreation and education that is sure to be complimented by the warmth and welcome of the Pierre community!

Rooms: IIASD room blocks at the Americ Inn $89 rooms 605-223-2358 on or before Friday, May 31st, 2013.

Please circle what size shirt you will need so we can have one available at the registration table. Men’s S M L XL XXL 3XL 4XL LT XLT 2XLT 3XLT Women’s S M L XL XXL 3XL 4XL LT XLT 2XLT 3XLT

RIVER DAYS/ WALLEYE CLASSIC REGISTRATION FORM

Payment must be sent with this form. Credit Card online registration at www.iiasd.org.

---------------------------------------------------------Clip and Save Upper Part----------------------------------------------------------- NAME:________________________________________________________ AMOUNT ENCLOSED________________

AGENCY/CO:_________________________ PHONE # :_____________________EMAIL:________________________________ ADDRESS:______________________________________ TOWN:___________________________ ZIP___________________

(IIASD Member Agents and Company Partners are considered members)

Full Registration (except Hole-In-One)

______ $135 member _______ $275 non-member

Check Fishing or Golf for Thursday _______ Fishing _______ Golf _____ Handicap

CEC Only _______ $65 member _______ $130 non-member CEC, Steak Fry and evening activities _______ $85 member _______ $170 non-member

Steak Fry Only _______ $20 member _______ $40 non-member

Fishing Only _______ $75 member _______ $150 non-member

Golfing Only _______ $75 member _______ $150 non-member

Hole-In-One (Win a 2013 Yamaha Golf Cart) _______ $10 member _______ $25 non-member

RETURN TO: IIASD PO BOX 327 Pierre SD 57501- PH 224-6234 - FAX 224-6235

Tuesday, June 18, 2013 Wednesday, June 19, 2013

12:00 pm Registration- Izaak Walton Club House 6:00am-2:00pm Fishing Tourney

1:00 pm

Education CEC- (3 hrs) Certified Flood Class with Sonja Wood H20 Partners- Izaak Walton Club House

9:00 am Meet at Hills View Golf Course

4:15 pm

Trap Shoot- Izaak Walton Club House shells provided

10:00 am Golf Tournament- Shot gun start

6:30 pm

Steak Fry and Rules Meeting- Izaak Walton Club House Beer Furnished

2:00 pm 3:00 pm

Weigh-In- Downs Marina Fish Fry- Izaak Walton

As the federal government exercises more and more power over small business, the future of our industry becomes greatly dependent upon our ability to become engaged in the federal political process. The U.S. Congress regularly considers legislation that directly affects the livelihood of independent agents – from taxes, healthcare, and flood insurance to the overhaul of the insurance regulatory system. We are fortunate to have a strong federal government affairs team working for us through our membership in the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA). However, they can’t do it alone. It is vital that we, as small business owners and agents, play an active role in shaping the public policy debate and ultimately the laws that come out of Washington, D.C. Through constant dialogue with Members of Congress and participation in numerous fundraising events, our federal government affairs staff has forged strong relationships with many influential policymakers and key congressional staff. That has been made possible in large part due to InsurPac, our federal political action committee. It solicits voluntary, personal contributions from agents throughout the country, and then distributes 100% of that money to Congressmen, Senators and candidates for federal office who support small business and the independent agency system. Fortunately InsurPac is one of the largest federal PACs in the insurance industry, and is by far the largest property-casualty agent PAC.

During the 2012 election cycle, more than 5,000 independent agents came together to support InsurPac, helping it raise $1.8 million. Using those funds, InsurPac was able to support a total of 282 races, winning 237 of them for a strong 84% victory rate. Because InsurPac is so large, it is able to carry over a healthy balance each election cycle and “hit the ground running” with each new respective Congress. Opinions on issues are being shaped every day and we must continue to have a seat at the table to educate Members of Congress. That seat at the table is made possible, largely due to InsurPac. It is THE federal PAC for independent agents.Federal Issues - At the federal level our government affairs team fights for us by getting in front of legislators and their staff, and educating them about legislation that is both detrimental and beneficial to independent agents. For example, as the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform Act made its way through Congress, IIABA was successful in maintaining insurance as a state-regulated business. Unlike banking and securities regulation which were drastically changed by Dodd-Frank, the insurance implications of the legislation were modest. IIABA was also actively engaged as Congress passed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) and limited some of the bill’s negative impact on independent agents. They continue to fight back against some of its negative provisions, including the Medical Loss Ratio (MLR) and its downward pressure on agent commissions. To that end, IIABA has worked with Congress to introduce legislation that would exclude agent commissions from the MLR calculations. Among many other things, IIABA continues to be at the forefront to reform the agent licensing process, protect crop insurance commissions and limit small business taxes.

If you have questions or want to support InsurPaclog in at www.iiaba.net/GovernmentAffairs/InsurPac

or email chofer@iiasd.org or InsurPac@iiaba.net

Your Dollars Today will Protect your Business Tomorrow!

POWER IN PARTNERS April 2013

DIAMONDProgressive Insurance Co.

Great Plains BrokerageGraber & Associates

PLATINUMFarmers Mutual of NebraskaRisk Administration Services

Great American Insurance CompanyNAU Country Insurance

GOLDAustin Mutual Insurance Compnay

Dakota Claims ServiceThe IMT Group

Le Mars Insurance CompanyNorth Star Mutual Insurance Company

Rain & Hail, LLCUnited Fire Group

SFM Mutual Insurance CompanyState Auto Insurance CompaniesCGB Diversified Services, Inc.

Columbia Insurance GroupAllied Insurance

Western National InsuranceContinental Western GroupLiberty Mutual Insurance

SILVERDoss & Associates

Farmers Alliance MutualMidwest Family Mutual

SafeCoSwiss Re

Risk Placement Services

BRONZEAuto-Owners InsuranceBjornson/Sentinel E & L

Buckeye Insurance GroupCenter Mutual Insurance Co.

Insurance Alternatives, LLC Missouri Valley Mutual Insurance Co.

Northwest GF Mutual InsurancePatriot National Insurance Group

ReliaMax