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2009 Press Releases

Don't Put Yourself at Risk of a Winter Fire

ALEXANDRIA, VA, Dec. 30, 2009 - Winter brings with it the opportunity to decorate in creative ways using candles, electric lights and the chance to finally start cozy fires in unused fireplaces. The unfortunate consequence is that winter is also a prime time for fire-related injuries, property damage and even deaths. Trusted Choice® agents and spokespeople can help families prepare for fire risks and hazards that may come during the winter months.

Senate Health Care Bill Fails To Achieve Real Reform

WASHINGTON, D.C., Dec. 24, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big I'), issued the following statement after today's passage of the Senate health care reform bill.

By Popular Demand: Big "I" to Host Free Webinar on Protecting Client Information and E-Mail Security

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 17, 2009 - The Independent Agents & Brokers of America's Agents Council for Technology (ACT) will be host a free Webinar titled 'Protecting Independent Agent Clients with Secure E-mail Using TLS (Transport Layer Security)' on Wednesday, Jan. 13 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. EST.

Is Your Home Ready for Winter?

ALEXANDRIA, VA, Dec. 14, 2009 - Is your home ready for winter weather? Many consumers don't realize that lack of preparation could mean unwelcome home damage and unexpected repair expenses. To help families and businesses protect themselves against winter risks and enjoy the season, Trusted Choice ®, the consumer branding program for independent insurance agents and brokers, and the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big 'I'), offer tips that can help families prepare for risks and hazards that may come during the winter months.

Florida Agency Awarded Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 10, 2009 - Hillcrest Insurance Agency in Mount Dora, Fla. has been named the Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month by Trusted Choice®, the consumer branding program for independent insurance agents and brokers.

Big "I" Names New Senior Director of Federal Government Affairs

WASHINGTON, D.C., Dec. 9, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big 'I') announced that Lauren Cialone has joined the trade association's government affairs staff as senior director of federal government affairs and John Prible has been promoted to vice president of federal government affairs.

Big "I" Weighs in on Estate Tax Relief Legislation

WASHINGTON, D.C., Dec. 3, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big 'I'), today commented on the U.S. House of Representatives' passage of H.R. 4154, titled the 'Permanent Estate Tax Relief for Families, Farmers, and Small Businesses Act of 2009' which permanently sets the estate tax rate and exemption amount at this year's levels.

Big "I" Applauds House Financial Services Committee for Passing Kanjorski/Childers/Paulsen Amendment

WASHINGTON, D.C., Dec. 2, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big 'I'), today thanked the U.S. House of Representatives Financial Services Committee for passing an extremely important amendment to H.R. 2609, titled the 'Federal Insurance Office Act of 2009' during the committee mark-up of the legislation. The amendment, offered by Capital Markets and Insurance Subcommittee Chairman Paul Kanjorski (D-Pa.), Rep. Travis Childers (D-Miss.), and Rep. Erik Paulsen (R-Minn.), passed with strong bipartisan support and clarifies that the definition of 'insurer' for mandatory data collection does not include insurance agents and agencies.

Big "I" Disappointed with Senate Democratic Health Care Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C., Nov. 19, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big 'I') expressed disappointment with the health care reform bill released by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) late last night in front of a meeting of the Democratic Caucus.

National Survey Finds Many Consumers Missing Out on Insurance Discounts

Alexandria, Va., Nov. 12, 2009 - As millions of Americans look for ways to stretch their budgets to survive these tough economic times, too many are not utilizing all of the discounts that may be available to them in their homeowner and auto insurance, according to a new national survey conducted for Trusted Choice® and the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big 'I').

Big "I" Disappointed with House Democratic Health Care Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C., Nov. 7, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big 'I'), today expressed their disappointment with the Democratic Health Care Reform bill that was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives.

ACT Launches Podcasts on Agency Productivity & Internet Marketing

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Nov. 5, 2009 - The Independent Agents & Brokers of America's Agents Council for Technology (ACT) has released podcasts on agency productivity and Internet marketing.

Big "I" to Host Free Webinar on Protecting Client Information and E-Mail Security

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Oct. 30, 2009 - The Independent Agents & Brokers of America's Agents Council for Technology (ACT) announced that it will be hosting a free Webinar titled 'Protecting Independent Agent Clients with Secure E-mail Using TLS (Transport Layer Security)' on Wednesday, Nov. 11 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. EST.

Independent Agents Offer Halloween Safety Tips

ALEXANDRIA, VA, Oct. 28, 2009 - Many consumers may not realize how scary Halloween might really be for their personal safety, their property... or their pocketbooks. Trusted Choice® agents and spokespeople can help families prepare for Halloween hazards that may come in disguise.

Big "I" Issues White Paper on Catastrophic Homeowners 'Exclusion'

ALEXANDRIA, VA, Oct. 26, 2009 - While the recent hard market has created a homeowners' insurance affordability problem for many consumers, a new report issued by the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big 'I') Virtual University (VU) also addresses growing concerns regarding potential homeowner policy gaps when a residence is left vacant.

Michigan Agent Joins National Big "I" Leadership Team

ALEXANDRIA, VA - Oct. 22, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big 'I') has announced that David Allen Walker, AAI, CIC, LIC has been installed as the newest member of the association's executive committee.

Louisiana Agency Awarded Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Oct. 7, 2009 - Dupre Carrier Godchaux Agency, Inc. in Louisiana's Acadiana region has been named the Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month by Trusted Choice®, the consumer branding program for independent insurance agents and brokers.

Big "I" Testifies Before Congress on Creation of a National Insurance Office

WASHINGTON, D.C., Oct. 6, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big 'I'), testified today before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Financial Services in a hearing titled, 'Capital Markets Regulatory Reform: Strengthening Investor Protection, Enhancing Oversight of Private Pools of Capital, and Creating a National Insurance Office.'

Michigan Earns Outstanding Big "I" Young Agents Committee Award

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Oct. 2, 2009 - The National Young Agents Committee (YAC) of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big 'I') presented its most prestigious annual award to the Young Agents Council of the Michigan Association of Insurance Agents.

Temporary Extension of Flood Insurance Program Signed into Law

WASHINGTON, D.C., Oct. 1, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big 'I') today commended the United States Senate for passing a temporary extension, until Oct. 31, 2009, of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and President Barack Obama for quickly signing the legislation into law just few hours before the program was set to expire.

Big "I" Study Finds Large Agencies Continue Hiring Producers

ALEXANDRIA, VA, Sept. 30, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big 'I') announced today the release of its Best Practices Study which found that, despite high national unemployment numbers, large agencies increased their employee 'headcounts.'

Big "I" Issues 2009 State Association Education Awards

ALEXANDRIA, Va. Sept. 29, 2009 - Independent insurance agent associations in Alabama, Georgia, Maryland, New Mexico, North Carolina and Virginia were recognized by the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big 'I') for their outstanding education programs at the recent education convocation in New Orleans, La.

Minnesota Agent Rises on National Association Leadership Team

ALEXANDRIA, Va. - Sept. 24, 2009 - Michael "Mike" R. Donohoe of Mankato, Minn. was installed as vice chairman of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") at the association's recent Leadership Conference in New Orleans, La.

Big "I" Recognizes Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of New Jersey with Spirit of Education of Award

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Sept. 23, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big "I") has honored the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of New Jersey (IIABNJ) with the Spirit of Education award.

Big "I" to Host 4th Free Webinar on E-Mail Security

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Sept. 18, 2009 - The Independent Agents & Brokers of America's Agents Council for Technology (ACT) announced that it will be hosting another free Webinar titled "Protecting Independent Agent Clients with Secure E-mail Using TLS (Transport Layer Security)," on Tuesday, Sept. 22 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. EST.

J. David Daniel Installed as Big "I" Chairman

ALEXANDRIA, VA - Sept. 17, 2009 - J. David Daniel was inaugurated as the chairman of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") at the recent Big "I" Leadership Conference in New Orleans, La.

Miley Installed as Big "I" Chairman-Elect

ALEXANDRIA, VA - Sept. 17, 2009 - J. Michael "Mike" Miley of Gibson Insurance Group was installed as the chairman-elect of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") at the association's recent Leadership Conference in New Orleans, La.

Minnesota Agency Awarded Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Sept. 16, 2009 - Dressel Insurance Agency, Inc. in Saint Bonifacius, Minn. has been named the Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month by Trusted Choice®, the consumer branding program for independent insurance agents and brokers.

Big "I" Applauds House Passage of Surplus Lines Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C., Sept. 9, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") today praised the U.S. House of Representatives for passage of H.R. 2571, the Nonadmitted and Reinsurance Reform Act of 2009, sponsored by Rep. Dennis Moore (D-Kan.) and Rep. Scott Garrett (R-N.J.). The legislation, often referred to as the "surplus lines bill," is another example of a positive targeted approach to insurance regulatory reform.

Big "I" Recommends Certification & CE Program from IRMI

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Aug. 26, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big "I") today announced its support and recommendation of the Management Liability Insurance Specialist (MLIS™) certification and continuing education program, developed by International Risk Management Institute, Inc. (IRMI).

InVEST Introduces New Board Member

ALEXANDRIA, Va., August 19, 2009 - InVEST, the insurance industry's premier classroom to career education program, recently appointed Bob Betters, ARM, CIC, to its national board.

Maryland and Ohio Teen Golfers Win 41st Annual Trusted Choice® Big "I" National Championship

ALEXANDRIA, Va., August 6, 2009 - Trusted Choice® announced that Denny McCarthy of Burtonsville, Md. and Caroline Powers of Bowling Green, Ohio, won the boys and girls divisions, respectively, at the recent 41st Annual Trusted Choice® Big "I" final tournament in Ardmore, Okla.

Big "I" to Host 3rd Free Webinar on E-Mail Security

ALEXANDRIA, Va., August 4, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America's Agents Council for Technology (ACT) announced that it will be hosting a free Webinar titled "Protecting Independent Agent Clients with Secure E-mail Using TLS (Transport Layer Security)," Tuesday, August 18 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Eastern.

InVEST Awards 38 Academic Student Scholarships

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Aug. 3, 2009 - InVEST, the insurance industry's premier classroom to career education program, has awarded $43,000 in scholarships to 38 college-bound students pursuing insurance-related degrees.

New Jersey Agency Awarded Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month

ALEXANDRIA, Va., July 31, 2009 - Raritan Valley Insurance Services, Inc. in Flemington, N.J. has been named the Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month by Trusted Choice®, the consumer branding program for independent insurance agents and brokers.

IIABA Introduces Big “I” Virtual Risk Consultant

ALEXANDRIA, Va., July 30, 2009 - The Independent Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) recently introduced a new web-based agency resource called the Big “I” Virtual Risk Consultant (VRC) powered by Rough Notes to help members better serve their customers, generate increased sales and lower their exposure to E&O claims.

House Passes National Flood Insurance Program Extension

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 29, 2009 -The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") today commended the passage of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Extension Act of 2009, H.R. 3139, which extends the program until March 31, 2010. The NFIP is currently set to expire on September 30, 2009.

Health Insurance Agent & Broker Alliance Hosts 1000+ Strong Joint Capitol Hill Fly-in

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 15, 2009 - More than 1,000 professional health insurance advisors, agents, brokers, consultants and employee benefit specialists from 49 states met with over 400 Senate and House offices as part of the Health Insurance Agent & Broker Alliance health care reform fly-in on Capitol Hill.

Health Insurance Agent & Broker Alliance Host Legislative Fly-In Next Week

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 9, 2009 - The Health Insurance Agent & Broker Alliance will be hosting a health care reform Capitol Hill fly-in on July 15.

Big "I" Commends Introduction of National Flood Insurance Program Extension

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 9, 2009 - The Big 'I' today commended House Financial Services Housing Subcommittee Chairwoman Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) and Committee Chairman Barney Frank (D-Mass.) for introducing legislation that would temporarily extend the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) until March 31, 2010.

Retail Agent--E&S Market Initiative Releases First Report

Alexandria, Va., July 7, 2009 - The Retail Agent - E&S Market Initiative has released new guidance for managing general agents and wholesale brokers in a report titled, 'Roadmap to Effective General Agent (GA) Web sites.'

Big "I" Submits Testimony to House Committee on Natural Catastrophe Insurance

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 2, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big 'I') today submitted testimony to the U.S. House of Representatives Financial Services Committee Subcommittee on Oversight & Investigations field hearing titled 'The Homeowners' Insurance Crisis: Solutions for Homeowners, Communities, and Taxpayers.'

Connecticut High School Teacher Awarded InVEST Program Teacher of the Year

WESTFIELD CENTER, Ohio, July 1, 2009 - The InVEST program awarded Gary Barcher of Bloomfield High School in Bloomfield, Conn. 2009 Teacher of the Year.

InVEST Program Presents Dach Award to New York Industry Leader

WESTFIELD CENTER, Ohio, July 1, 2009 - The InVEST program awarded Dee Macheda of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of New York (IIABNY) with the Dach Award. The Dach Award honors an insurance industry volunteer who has made tremendous contributions in fostering the growth and development of InVEST.

Big "I" Applauds Reintroduction of Surplus Lines Legislation in Senate

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 29, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big 'I') praised the introduction of S.1363, the Nonadmitted and Reinsurance Reform Act of 2009, by Sen. Evan Bayh (D-Ind.) and Sen. Mel Martinez (R-Fla.). The legislation is another example of a positive targeted approach to reform and is designed to streamline the regulation of nonadmitted insurance and reinsurance.

New York Agency Awarded Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month

ALEXANDRIA, Va., June 24, 2009 - The Sullivan Financial Group has been named the Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month by Trusted Choice®, the consumer branding program for independent insurance agents and brokers.

National Survey Finds Americans Want Choice in Health Insurance

Alexandria, Va., June 23, 2008 - The majority of Americans want choices when it comes to their health insurance options, according to a new national survey by Trusted Choice® and the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big 'I').

Big "I" Urges Senate HELP Committee to Move Forward on True Health Care Reform

Washington, D.C., June 19, 2008 - Robert Rusbuldt, president & CEO of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big 'I'), sent a letter to the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) opposing the current draft of the Kennedy bill that is pending in the committee and calling for 'Real and substantive health care reform.'

Big "I" Expresses Support for Obama Administration's Treatment of Insurance Regulatory Reform Plan

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 17, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big 'I') strongly supports President Barack Obama's decision not to propose a complete overhaul of insurance regulation in the administration's report titled 'Financial Regulatory Reform: A New Foundation' released today.

Big "I" Urges Obama Administration to Oppose Reform Efforts that Could Harm Consumers and State Insurance Regulatory System

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 11, 2009 - Robert Rusbuldt, president & CEO of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big "I"), sent a letter to the Obama administration urging them to oppose any financial services regulatory reform efforts that could imperil the strength and stability of the state system of insurance regulation.

Back By Popular Demand: Big "I" Free Webinar on E-Mail Security June 23

ALEXANDRIA, Va., June 10, 2009 - The Independent Agents & Brokers of America's Agents Council for Technology (ACT) announced that they will be hosting another free Webinar titled "Protecting Independent Agent Clients with Secure E-mail Using TLS (Transport Layer Security)," Tuesday, June 23 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Eastern.

Big "I" Voices Strong Opposition to Kennedy Health Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 10, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big "I") today announced its opposition to a bill titled "the Affordable Health Choices Act" as introduced by Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor & Pensions.

Producer Groups Join Forces on Health Care Reform Legislative Fly-In

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 9, 2009 - AHIA-NAIFA Health and Employee Benefits (AHIA), The Council of Insurance Agents & Brokers (CIAB), the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big "I"), the National Association of Health Underwriters (NAHU), and the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) today announced that they will hosting a special joint health care reform Capitol Hill fly-in July 14-15.

Big "I" to Host InVEST Program State Champion Workshop

ALEXANDRIA, Va., June 8, 2009 - The Independent Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") will host InVEST's State Champion Workshop June 29 to July 1, 2009 at the Westfield Insurance campus in Westfield Center, Ohio.

New Hampshire Agency Awarded Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month

ALEXANDRIA, Va., May 27, 2009 - Tobey & Merrill Insurance Agency has been named the Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month by Trusted Choice® , the consumer branding program for independent insurance agents and brokers.

Big "I" Praises Reintroduction of Surplus Lines Bill in House

WASHINGTON, D.C., May 22, 2009 - The Big "I" praised the reintroduction of the Nonadmitted and Reinsurance Reform Act of 2009 sponsored by Rep. Dennis Moore (D-Kan.) and Rep. Scott Garrett (R-N.J.). The legislation, often referred to as the "surplus lines bill," is another example of a positive targeted approach to regulatory reform.

New Jersey Agency Awarded Trusted Choice® Agency of the Year

ALEXANDRIA, Va., May 26, 2009 - The Ronan Agency in Brick and New Egypt, N.J. has been named the Trusted Choice® Agency of the Year for 2008-2009 by Trusted Choice®, the consumer branding program for independent insurance agents and brokers.

Big "I" Applauds Reintroduction of NARAB II

WASHINGTON, D.C., May 21, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") today expressed its strong support for bipartisan insurance agent licensing reform legislation, H.R. 2554, introduced by Rep. David Scott (D-Ga.) and Rep. Randy Neugebauer (R-Texas).

Rep. Klein Introduces Natural Disaster Legislation

WASHINGTON, D.C., May 21, 2009 - Rep. Ron Klein (D-Fla.) today introduced H.R. 2555, the Homeowners' Defense Act. The legislation addresses the growing problem of natural disasters.

Montana Takes Center Stage in National Health Care Reform Debate

WASHINGTON, D.C., May 20, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents Association of Montana (IIAM) and the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big "I") have ongoing efforts in Montana to educate Montana insurance consumers on the inherent problems of a government run health insurance system and to communicate with the state's two senators, Max Baucus (D-Mont.) and Jon Tester (D-Mont.), on health care reform needs, goals and details. As Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, Sen. Baucus is expected to be the primary author of the health care reform legislation and Sen. Tester will also be a key vote.

Trusted Choice® Presents Inaugural Dan Fulwider Award for Community Involvement to Missouri Agency

ALEXANDRIA, Va., May 19, 2009 - Trusted Choice® has awarded the inaugural Dan Fulwider Award for Community Involvement to Kevin and Kathy Flynn of K. Flynn Insurance Agency in Troy, Mo. In the spirit of and to honor Dan Fulwider who recently passed away after a valiant fight with cancer, the award recognizes Trusted Choice® member agents for going above and beyond in volunteering time and enthusiasm to causes close to their heart.

IIABA Presents the 'Sidney O. Smith Award' to Oklahoma Agent Bobby Bramlett

WASHINGTON, D.C. - May 15, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") has awarded the 2008 Sidney O. Smith Award to Bobby Bramlett. The award is the association's highest individual government affairs honor.

Producer Groups Issue Statement Promoting the Value of Health Insurance Agents and Brokers

Washington, D.C., May 13, 2009 - The major health insurance producer groups including AHIA-NAIFA Health and Employee Benefits (AHIA), The Council of Insurance Agents & Brokers (CIAB), Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA), National Association of Health Underwriters (NAHU) and the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) today joined forces in a letter to congressional leaders promoting the value of health insurance producers.

IIABA Presents the Barney Burns Award to Robb Dale of Washington

WASHINGTON, D.C. - May 12, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") has awarded the Barney Burns Award to Robb Dale. The Barney Burns Award recognizes outstanding work for InsurPac, the Big "I" political action committee.

Big "I" to Host Free Webinar on E-Mail Security May 13

ALEXANDRIA, Va., May 12, 2009 - The Independent Agents & Brokers of America’s Agents Council for Technology (ACT) announced that they will be hosting a free webinar titled “Protecting Independent Agent Clients with Secure E-mail Using TLS (Transport Layer Security)” tomorrow, May 13 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Eastern.

Top Insurance Industry Leaders Address Big "I" Young Agents in Panel Discussion

WASHINGTON, D.C., May 8, 2009 - InVEST and Facebook are two keys to future of the independent agency system according to a panel discussion hosted by the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of American (Big "I") with industry leaders from Westfield, Liberty Mutual, CNA and Chubb Group.

Congressman John Tanner is Big "I" Legislator of the Year

WASHINGTON, D.C., May 7, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers (the Big "I") announced that Rep. John Tanner (D-Tenn.) was recognized as the Gerald Solomon-IIABA Legislator of the Year for 2008.

Top Insurance CEOs Address Big "I" Membership

WASHINGTON, D.C., May 6, 2009 - The forecast of a federal systemic risk regulator was one of several hot-button issues discussed by four of the top insurance company carrier CEOs who recently participated in a panel discussion with the membership of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I").

Big "I" Honors Companies with Best Practices Awards

WASHINGTON, DC, May 5, 2009 - Insurance carriers Central Insurance Companies and Travelers recently received the prestigious "Best Practices Award of Excellence" at the 2009 Big "I" Legislative Conference & Convention. The awards were presented at the Young Agents Breakfast and Leadership Panel on May 1.

Alex Soto Receives Highest Individual Big “I” Honor

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 30, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers (the Big “I”) today awarded Alex Soto with the Woodworth Memorial Award, the highest honor the association bestows on one of its members.

House Republican Whip Eric Cantor & Senator Jon Tester Kick Off Big "I" Day on Capitol Hill

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 30, 2009 - House Republican Whip Eric Cantor (R-Va.) and Senator Jon Tester (D-Mont.) today addressed the Big &quotI" during the Legislative Conference & Convention Breakfast. Attendees heard from the legislators before heading to Capitol Hill to lobby members of the House, Senate and their staffs on issues that directly impact independent agents and consumers.

Chief Deputy Republican Whip Kevin McCarthy Addresses Big "I" Young Agents and InsurPac Leadership

WASHINGTON, April 29, 2009 - Chief Deputy Republican Whip Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) today addressed the Annual Young Agents & InsurPac State Chairpersons Legislative Luncheon at the Big "I" Legislative Conference & Convention.

Florida Agency Awarded Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month

ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 23, 2009 - Jack Rice Insurance in Largo, Fla. has been named the Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month by Trusted Choice®, the branding program of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America, Inc. (the Big "I").

Big "I" to Host Free Webinar on E-Mail Security

ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 22, 2009 - The Independent Agents & Brokers of America's Agents Council for Technology (ACT) today announced that they will be hosting a free webinar titled "Protecting Independent Agent Clients with Secure E-mail Using TLS (Transport Layer Security)" on May 13 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Eastern.

Producer Groups Urge Congress Not to Rush Health Care Reform

WASHINGTON, April 22, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA), AHIA - NAIFA Health & Employee Benefits (AHIA), The Council of Insurance Agents & Brokers (CIAB), National Association of Health Underwriters (NAHU), and the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) today joined forces in a letter to congressional leaders urging them to oppose efforts to include health care reform in the budget reconciliation instructions.

Trusted Choice® Commercials Win Aurora Awards

ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 13, 2009 - Two Trusted Choice® television ads have been recognized with Aurora Awards this year.

Senator Jon Tester to Address the Big "I"

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 8, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers (the Big "I") today announced that United States Senator Jon Tester (D-Mont.) will address the association's membership on April 30.

Trusted Choice® Sponsors Public Radio Programming

ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 7, 2009 - Trusted Choice®, the branding program of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America, Inc. (the Big "I"), today announced that it is a sponsor of the morning and afternoon radio broadcasts of American Public Media's (APM) Marketplace Morning Report and Marketplace, which will air on APM and National Public Radio (NPR) from April 8 to June 12, 2009.

Big "I" Opposes Optional Federal Charter Bill

(WASHINGTON - April 2, 2009) - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") strongly opposes "The National Insurance Consumer Protection Act," introduced in the House today by Rep. Melissa Bean (D-Ill.) and Rep. Ed Royce (R-Calif.).

Chief Deputy Minority Whip Kevin McCarthy to Address Big "I" Young Agents/InsurPac Leadership Luncheon

(WASHINGTON - March 25, 2009) - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big 'I') announced that Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) will address the Annual Young Agents & InsurPac State Chairpersons Legislative Luncheon at the Big "I" National Legislative Conference & Convention.

Top Insurance Leaders to Address Big "I" Legislative Conference & Convention

WASHINGTON, D.C. - March 19, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") today announced the Young Agents Breakfast & Presidents' Panel with Big "I" Leadership at the National Legislative Conference & Convention.

Big "I" Testifies Before Congress on Insurance Regulation

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 17, 2009 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big 'I'), testified today before the U.S. Senate Banking Committee in a hearing titled, 'Perspectives on Modernizing Insurance Regulation.'

Maryland Agency Awarded Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month

(ALEXANDRIA, Va. - March 16, 2009) - Joseph W. McCartin Insurance has been named the Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month by Trusted Choice®, the branding program of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America, Inc. (the Big "I").

Commends President Obama on Signing Temporary Extension of Flood Insurance Program into Law

(WASHINGTON, D.C., - March 11, 2009) - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") today commended President Barack Obama for signing a temporary extension, until Sept. 30, 2009, of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) into law.

"Everything You Wanted to Know About Certificates of Insurance"

(ALEXANDRIA, Va. - March 10, 2009) - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big 'I') today announced that the Big 'I' Virtual University will be presenting a two-part webinar on Certificates of Insurance on March 19 and April 16 at 2:00 p.m. Eastern.

House Democratic Caucus Chairman John Larson to Address Big "I" Large Agent/Broker/CEO Dinner

(WASHINGTON - March 9, 2009) - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") today announced that Rep. John Larson (D-Conn.), chairman of the U.S. House of Representatives Democratic Caucus, will address the association's Large Agent/Broker and CEO dinner on April 30 during the Big 'I' Legislative Conference & Convention.

Study Reveals State of Property-Casualty Insurance Market

(ALEXANDRIA, Va., March 9, 2009) -The results of the 2007 market share study by the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America, Inc. (the Big 'I') reveal that independent agents and brokers continued to hold their market share despite the weakened economy.

House Republican Whip Eric Cantor to Address the Big "I"

(WASHINGTON- March 3, 2009) - 'The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") today announced that Rep. Eric Cantor (R-Va.), Republican Whip of the U.S. House of Representatives, will address the association's membership on April 30.

Feb. 25 is ACSR Tribute Day

(ALEXANDRIA, VA - Feb. 25, 2009) - Today marks the annual ACSR Tribute Day in honor of the graduates of the Accredited Customer Service Representative (ACSR) program, a joint effort of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I"), the American Institutes for CPCU (AICPCU) and the Insurance Institute of America (IIA).

North Star Mutual Insurance Company Joins Trusted Choice®

(ALEXANDRIA, VA - Feb. 24, 2009) - North Star Mutual is the newest independent agency system insurance organization to join the Trusted Choice® brand movement. Headquartered in Cottonwood, Minn., North Star Mutual provides insurance protection for homes, farms, autos, and businesses in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Iowa. North Star Mutual is rated A+ Superior with AM Best.

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CPCU Society President to Address Big "I" Legislative Conference & Convention

(ALEXANDRIA, VA - Feb. 19, 2009) - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") today announced that Marvin Kelly, president of the Chartered Property Casualty Underwriters (CPCU) Society, will deliver an address at the Diversity Luncheon held during the association's National Legislative Conference & Convention on Friday, May 1, at 11:30 a.m.

IIABA Commends BancInsure

(ALEXANDRIA, VA - Feb. 18, 2009) - BancInsure recently made a number of positive enhancements to its Independent Insurance Agency Agreement based on its work with the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America, Inc. (the Big "I" or IIABA), announced Rodney N. Sargent, President and CEO of BancInsure, Inc.

Big "I" Expands International Membership Across the Pond

(ALEXANDRIA, VA - Feb. 18, 2009) - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") today announced that Neil Hitchcock of Tysers, an independent insurance broker headquartered in London, has joined the association.

Trusted Choice® Featured on Lifetime Television Show

(ALEXANDRIA, VA - Feb. 11, 2009) - Trusted Choice® will be featured on the Lifetime Television show 'The Balancing Act' on Monday, Feb. 16.

Congressman Pete Sessions to Address Big "I" Legislative Leadership Luncheon

(WASHINGTON - Feb. 9, 2009) - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") announced that Rep. Pete Sessions (R-Texas) will address the Annual Leadership Luncheon, just prior to the Big "I"National Legislative Conference & Convention.

Big "I" Names New Senior Director of Federal Government Affairs

(WASHINGTON - Feb. 3, 2009) - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") announced that Joe Wall has joined the team as Senior Director of Federal Government Affairs.

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Tennessee Firm Awarded Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month

(ALEXANDRIA, VA - Jan. 30, 2009) - Don Scott Insurance has been named the Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month by Trusted Choice®, the branding program of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America, Inc. (the Big "I").

Top Insurance Carrier CEOs to Address Big "I" Legislative Conference & Convention

(WASHINGTON - Jan. 27, 2009) - The Big "I" today announced the insurance carrier CEO panelists for their annual National Legislative Conference & Convention.

Big "I" Urges President Obama to Focus on Regulatory Problems and Not Abandon What Works

(WASHINGTON - Jan. 26, 2009) - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") today released the text of the following letter to President Barack Obama.

"FREAKONOMICS" Author to Address Big "I" Legislative Conference & Convention

(WASHINGTON - Jan. 21, 2009) - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big 'I') announced that 'FREAKONOMICS' author Stephen Dubner will address their annual National Legislative Conference & Convention.

New Year a Great Time for Insurance "Makeover"

(ALEXANDRIA, VA - Jan. 14, 2009) - It's a new year and Americans everywhere are thinking about finances in the slumping economy. While families are looking for ways to tighten their belts, they should also consider making an appointment with an insurance professional for a free insurance 'makeover.' In fact, almost twenty-four percent of households, representing about 39 million homeowners, say they have already made changes to their insurance coverage in the last year in an effort to reduce costs, according to a recent survey by the Big “I” and Trusted Choice®.

New Jersey Firm Awarded Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month

(ALEXANDRIA, VA - Jan. 13, 2009) - E.A. Boniakowski Agency, Inc. has been named the Trusted Choice® Agency of the Month by Trusted Choice®, the branding program of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America, Inc. (the Big "I").

Big “I” Responds to GAO Report on Financial Regulatory Reform

(WASHINGTON - Jan. 12, 2009) - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big “I”) released the following response to a recent GAO report on financial regulatory reform.

Big "I" Political Action Committee Breaks Fundraising Records in 2008

(WASHINGTON - Jan. 6, 2009) -- The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I") today announced that its political action committee, InsurPac, raised a total of $901,985.84 during the 2008 calendar year, setting a new record for receipts in a calendar year.