March 31, 2004

The 108th AIIA Convention & Trade Show is Coming Soon to a Beach Near You

We’ve all read and heard about the New Day at your Alabama Big “I” Association, but have you seen for yourself? Let the AIIA leadership and staff prove to you that it is, indeed, a new day at AIIA. Come to Convention June 10-12 at the Sandestin Hilton to see the new building plans, to learn about AIIA programs that will contribute to your agency’s success and to enjoy time with your family in the fun, positive atmosphere we provide. Let our AIIA “New Day” inspire you to create a “New Day” in your agency. Our excitement for our members and our industry is contagious. Come and catch the spirit at the 108^th Annual Convention.

New to this year’s convention will be Progressive’s Wheel of fortune. Hypnotist and motivational speaker Robert Ian will perform his “Incredible Stage Hypnosis Show” after Saturday’s Closing Banquet on Saturday. Don’t worry about missing our favorite party band - “Meet The Press” will perform Thursday night rather than on Saturday night. Also, by attending the June AIIA Convention, IIABA will give you a 33% discount to the Annual IIABA National Convention in Orlando. Old favorites such as the poolside hospitality suites, the golf and fishing tournaments, the Kids Crab Hunt, Parent’s Night Out and the Ladies program are on the list of activities. Infinity Insurance will offer several free CEU classes. Guest speakers include IIABA President-Elect Thomas Grau, CPCU, a representative from the Alabama Dept. of Industrial Relations, MetLife Auto & Home CEO and President Cathy Rein will speak about the state of the industry and Robert Ian will present “Identify, Master and Conquer Change.”

Register and make reservations today to get the AIIA discount room rate. The Hotel Cutoff Date is Sunday, May 9, 2004, and the once the block is closed, room prices will increase significantly and the hotel is not offering an extension on our room block. Beachfront and parlor suites are sold out. Online registration available at http://www.aiia.org/conventions.html or contact Nancy Crowe at ncrowe@aiia.org or (205) 326-4129, ext. 103.

IIABA Offers 33% Discount to the IIABA National Convention in Orlando, Florida

IIABA is giving a 33% discount to AIIA members who attend both the 108^th AIIA Annual Convention and the IIABA National Convention, October 8-12 at Walt Disney World. AIIA members attending the AIIA 108^th Convention in June qualify to receive the 33% discount to Orlando. The Walt Disney World Resort facilities are so close to home, it invites you to combine your business and pleasure into one trip – the IIABA National Convention. IIABA is offering a World Class Trade Show, a Best Practices symposium and workshop geared towards CSRs. Don’t miss this event!

NATIONAL LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE: Come See Prominent Political Speakers

The 28^th annual Big “I” National Legislative Conference, scheduled for April 21 through 23 at the Capital Hilton, is right around the corner. Don’t miss your chance to attend the industry’s premiere legislative event and meet with your elected representatives. As in past years, this conference features top political leaders as featured speakers. Sen. George Allen (R-Va.), a member of the Senate Republican leadership and a rising star on the national scene, will address the conference, as will Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.), a leading voice for his party and the ranking Democrat on the House Financial Services Committee. Additionally, Sen. Don Nickles (R-Okla.) will address the Big “I” Insiders Luncheon, April 20 at the Capitol Hill Club. The conference, in addition to having top Washington leaders as guests, also provides the opportunity for independent agents and brokers to visit their elected representatives on Capitol Hill. With many crucial issues coming to the fore, particularly the Oxley-Baker “road map” on insurance regulation, this is an excellent opportunity to influence your members of Congress on issues that affect your livelihood. Register now to reserve your place at the industry’s largest and most effective legislative gathering. To register online, go to www.independentagent.com and select the “Events and Conferences” link from the left menu bar. Please note that The Capital Hilton is sold out. To book accommodations, please contact The Madison at 15th and M Street NW in Washington D.C. at (800) 424-8577.

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

Ø Last week’s NEWSLINE reported the February CIC course in error. April’s CIC course is CIC Agency Management that will be held April 7-9 at The Radisson in Birmingham. Seats are still available. 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.

Ø Seeking Personal Lines CSR. Huntsville agency needs Personal Lines CSR/Agent. Call Gordon @ (256) 880-3319 or email resume to insuranceman@knology.net or fax to (256) 880-3946.