March 23, 2004

National Security Group, First Associate Member to Contribute To Capital Campaign

National Security Group of Elba is the first associate member to pledge $10,000 for the new building! AIIA is absolutely ecstatic to have the support of National Security. Jack E. Brunson, President of National Security Group, sees this opportunity as a way to give back to agents. “We appreciate the contribution that Alabama’s independent agents have made to our success over the past half century. We’re glad that we can make a contribution with the new agency association building so we can work together for continued success in the future.”

Progressive Insurance Contributes $25,000 to AIIA Building Capital Campaign

AIIA greatly appreciates the $25,000 commitment Progressive Insurance made for the Capital Campaign. They are the second member company to offer support for AIIA’s new facility with their generous donation. We are so excited to have this level of support so early in our campaign. “We are very excited about the opportunities that have a larger, well-located building will present for the association,” says Progressive’s Michele Dotson.

Building Committee Chair Arthur Williams sums up the sentiment felt at AIIA. “We haven’t even kicked off the campaign to members and associates, and already we have raised $335,000 from three outstanding contributors. It is nice to have partners and members who want to make our organization better and to preserve it for the future. A SPECIAL THANKS to BIIA, National Security and Progressive for stepping out. And thanks to those that will soon contribute.”

“First the Birmingham Association and now National Security and Progressive join us in the quest for our dream of a new facility!” says AIIA President Mickie Edwards. “What an affirmation that the time is right for moving forward. The new building will benefit all or members, regular and associates, and we are delighted these two company partners are so generously helping us kick off the capital campaign. At our groundbreaking next month, we will truly begin to live our dream!”

Your AIIA association cannot say “Thank you” enough. “We are very appreciative of the support our business partners have shown us in these generous donations,” states AIIA EVP Victor McCarley. “These gifts and the others to follow allow us to make this long term dream a reality that all of our members will be proud of in the years to come.”

MEMBER SERVICES: Big “I” Markets Offers Architects Programs Big “I” Markets, the premier online market-access program developed by IIABA, in conjunction with The Hartford, is introducing the Architects Insurance Program to Big “I” member agents. Architects have unique needs, and The Hartford is responding by constructing a middle market package policy designed for architects and architectural engineers who provide services in a variety of fields. Drawing upon its in-depth experience within the industry, The Hartford can help you tap into the $188 million market that midsize architectural firms represent. Participating agents will receive an average of 10% commission on The Hartford products. The program is open to agents who have registered for Big “I” Markets and is subject to filing and state-licensing compliance. To review underwriting criteria, download sales tools and policy specimens, or submit an online quote request, log in to www.bigimarkets.com and start building your agency’s offerings today.

AIIA members not yet registered for Big “I” Markets must submit a Big “I” Markets Registration Kit, which can be accessed on the Big “I” Markets website, www.bigimarkets.com or email Alison Ray King at aray@aiia.org for assistance or more information.

NAIW Education Foundation Golf Tournament The Alabama State Council of Insurance Women will hold a golf tournament on May 20, 2004, 7:00 a.m. at the Indian Oaks Golf Course in Anniston, Alabama. Proceeds will benefit the NAIW Education Foundation. Registration is $50 for players and includes golf cart, a meal and door prizes. You can register to play by calling the Indian Oaks Country Club at (256) 820-4030 or you can make a contribution to the Education Foundation by mailing your check to NAIW Alabama State Council, c/o Sandra Rice-Brown, 235 River Ranch Road, Ragland, AL 35131-4800.

Markel Insurance Joins Trusted Choice^SM Markel Insurance Company, a leading provider of specialty insurance products and programs, is the newest company partner of Trusted Choice^SM. “Markel’s reputation is unsurpassed as a provider of specialized insurance products,” says Big “I” CEO Robert A. Rusbuldt. Markel Insurance Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Markel Corporation, develops and underwrites specialty insurance products and programs in a variety of niche markets, from child care centers and college students, to horse farms and soccer camps. Six advertising flights this year in March (just completed), April, June, August, October and December, as well as a public relations outreach program, will educate consumers on the value of a Trusted Choice^SM agency.

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

Ø Spaces are available for the CIC Commercial Casualty course that will be held April 4-6 at The Radisson in Birmingham.

Ø March 30 Best Practices E&O Loss Control Seminar Mobile

Ø March 31 Best Practices E&O Loss Control Seminar Birmingham

Register online at www.aiia.org/edulinks or email Nita Blankenship at nblankenship@aiia.org for more information.

EMPLOYMENT / AGENCY OPPORTUNITIES

Ø Seeking CSR – North Shelby area agency needs Personal Lines CSR. Individual must be licensed with at least two years experience. Confidential to (205) 602-7951.

Ø Seeking Agency for Purchase - Licensed insurance agent interested in purchasing or partnership with a multi-line independent insurance agency in Jefferson or Shelby County area. Please respond to 205-283-1063. All responses confidential.

Ø Seeking Experienced Commercial Underwriter. EMC Insurance Companies has an opening for an experienced multi-line commercial underwriter in the Birmingham office. Candidate should have college degree and a minimum of 5 years multi-line underwriting. Excellent communication skills required. Some overnight travel required. EMC offers competitive benefit package. EOE. Email resumes to thomas.c.oconnell@emcins.com or fax (205) 987-0438.

Ø Seeking Personal Lines CSR. CSR needed with more PPA auto experience than other lines for Moody agency. Full or Part time available. Please call Jack, Sr., at (205) 640-5892 or (205) 823-9008.