Bulletin 04-01 February 23, 2004

STREET ADDRESS UPDATE PROJECT

The Association has undertaken a major project to review the mailing addresses of insureds as well as the property location addresses.  As a part of this project, policy data is being compared to data in the United States Postal Service (USPS) data base.

Not only will the Association have improved data quality, the Association will be able to take advantage of mailing discounts offered through the use of nine digit Zip codes.

In the process of this review, some addresses are being changed from a “more popular version” to the correct USPS format.  For example . . .

            Incorrect:                    100 Ocean Blvd. North

            Correct:                      100 N Ocean Blvd

This is a challenging project for a number of reasons, such as . . .  

·              Many of the insured properties are secondary houses and do not receive mail.  By not receiving mail, the properties do not have valid addresses in the USPS data base. 

·              Even at locations with a significant number of full-time residents, many of these residents use centrally located Post Office Boxes that do not reflect the physical address of the property.  This means that the physical address is not in the USPS data base. 

·              Some postal offices cover several distinct areas.  For example, residents of Litchfield receive their mail with a Pawley’s Island address.

As we proceed through this process, we will keep you posted.  If you have any questions concerning the address update project, please contact Underwriting Manager David Leadbitter.

AGENCY CERTIFICATION

As previously announced, the Association has extended the current certification period until June 30, 2005.

This change was implemented so that the certification period would not coincide with the CE deadline set by the State of South Carolina.  With two deadlines so close to each other, it caused difficulties for agents and CE providers.  By having the certification period end in an “off CE year,” this problem should be resolved.

     Is My Agency Certified?

If your agency is currently receiving the 10% commission rate, then you are certified until June 30, 2005.

     Did Many Agencies Certify This Cycle?

After 29 seminars, we are pleased to announce that over 99% of the policies issued by the Association came from agencies that were certified!

     When Is The Next Seminar?

The Association will announce the next series of seminars after July 1, 2004.  

SC CE CERTIFICATION DEADLINE

Don’t forget . . . May 1, 2004 is the deadline for South Carolina Licensed producers to complete 24 hours of continuing education.

Also . . . Be sure you have paid your $20 biennial fee to the CE Administrator and that the Department of Insurance has your current address.

For further information about the South Carolina Continuing Education requirements, please refer to:  www.doi.state.sc.us and click on individual licensing.

Download/View a copy of bulletin 04-01 here.

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Bulletin 04-02 March 18, 2004

POSITIVE BENEFITS FOR AGENTS AND CONSUMERS

During a recent presentation to a group of agents, a staff member was asked to list some of the enhancements which have benefited either agents or consumers.  While the list is not complete, here are some of the major changes we feel that benefit agents and coastal consumers.

• The Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of South Carolina asked the Association to review some of its guidelines.  As a result, the following changes were made on July 1, 2003:

n          Increased the maximum coverage limits on personal lines risks from $650,000 to $1 million.

n          Increased the maximum coverage limits on commercial risks from $1.5 million to $2.5 million.

n          Allowed small, contents only, commercial risks to obtain up to $100,000 in Loss of Business Income Coverage – even if the contents amounts are extremely small.

n         Offered additional options for limits for Loss of Use for personal lines risks.

• The IIABSC also asked the Association to file for deductible credits for 3%, 4%, 5%, and 10%.  This will be included in the next rate filing.
   

• To better serve coastal consumers, the Association implemented an incentive program to encourage brokers to attend educational seminars on wind insurance and procedures.  Over 99% of the policies issued by the Association come from agencies that sent producers to the seminars.
   

• The Association eliminated its hurricane restriction in 1996.  While almost every insurance company ceases writing business when a storm approaches, the Association does not.  Through the use a fifteen day waiting period, processing is not interrupted by the approach of a storm, yet the Association is protected from adverse selection.   The National Flood Insurance Program uses a thirty day waiting period.
   

• A five business day grace period is in place to allow for the continuation of coverage in the event that a rewrite application has been delayed.
   

• A procedure is in place to honor mortgage closings with a property transfer –even if the closing is scheduled to take place at the same time a hurricane is making landfall.
   

• Rewrite applications are pre-printed and mailed to all agencies 75 to 105 days before policies expire.  This relieves brokers from having to complete rewrite (renewal) applications.  The premium for the next period is shown on the form.
   

• In response to Hurricanes Bertha, Fran, Bonnie, Floyd, and Isabel, the Association successfully implemented the Single Adjuster Program – a program designed to have one adjuster handle both the flood loss and the wind loss.  This program significantly reduces conflicts and better serves consumers.  South Carolina is the only state to ever successfully implement the Single Adjuster Concept with the National Flood Insurance Program.
   

• During a major storm, a toll-free claims fax line is established with an unlimited number of rollover lines.
   

• The Rates, Rules, and Forms Manual is on the web site and is available on CD.  Upon request, a printed copy of the manual is available for brokers.
   

• The Association Staff developed an in-house computer system that has significantly reduced the costs to operate the organization.  These savings will be passed on to consumers in the form of lower rate increases.
   

• The new computer system, which includes imaging, provides brokers and consumers with one of the highest levels of service in the industry.  Turnaround on completed applications is twenty-four to forty-eight hours.
   

• Future enhancements to the system include allowing brokers to rate personal lines risks on the internet.  This is a 2004 project.
   

• The Association works with interested insurance companies to assist them in entering the property insurance business in South Carolina.  Increased capacity will benefit all involved.

 Download/View a copy of bulletin 04-02 here.

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Bulletin 04-03 May 5, 2004

INDIRECT COVERAGES

The Association has offered indirect (time element) coverages since January 1996.  Recently, the Underwriters have received a number of questions about this coverage.  They wanted to share the more frequent questions and the answers with you.

     Which coverages are available?

Three coverages are available.  They are:

• Loss of Use for Dwelling, Mobile Home, and Condo Unit Owners

• Additional Living Expenses – Commonly used for owner-occupied structures
• Fair Rental Value – Useful for dwellings that are rented

• Loss of Business Income for Commercial Risks

Note that these are optional coverages and the applicant / insured must request them.

      How does the deductible apply to these coverages?

If the rates are based on an insured building or contents with a 1% deductible, then a 10 day waiting period applies.

If the rates are based on an insured building or contents with a 2% deductible, then a 15 day waiting period applies.

      What limits are available for personal lines?

If the Association insures the building, then the insured may purchase 20% of Coverage A as Loss Of Use Coverage.  As of July 1, 2003, the insured may purchase a lower amount equal to 10% of Coverage A.

If this is a “contents only” policy issued by the Association, then the insured may purchase 40% of Coverage C as Loss of Use Coverage.  As of July 1, 2003, the insured may purchase a lower amount equal to 20% of Coverage C.

Remember that the Loss Of Use Limits must be included within the Personal Lines Maximum Limit of $1,000,000.

     Even with the lower limits option, is the Loss of Use Limit too high?

Everyone likes to assume that they will be back in their houses in a few short weeks.  This may not be the case.  In storms such as Andrew or Inikie, homes were not livable for over a year.  Even in Floyd, some homeowners could not use their homes for over a year.

In resort areas, beach homes can rent for $8,000 to $12,000 per week.  Condo Units rent for $1,800 and higher per week.  A low amount of coverage can be exhausted very quickly.

     What other questions are you being asked?

In the Wind and Hail Certification Seminars, we point out the following:

• Loss of Use Coverage requires that there be actual physical damage to property insured under the SCWHUA Policy.

• There is no coverage for evacuation prior to the storm.  There are E&S markets that offer this coverage.

• There is no coverage for acts of governmental authority.  As an example, a city limits access to your property due to hurricane damage (downed electrical lines, broken gas pipes, debris in the streets), but your house is not damaged.  There is limited Loss Of Use Coverage under the ISO form if it includes the wind peril, but not under the SCWHUA Policy.

In the next newsletter, we will cover frequent questions concerning Loss Of Business Income.

Download/View a copy of bulletin 04-03 here.

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Bulletin 04-04 June 18, 2004

INDIRECT COVERAGES, PART II

In the last issue, the Association discussed questions about indirect coverages.  Here are some more frequent questions and answers.

      What indirect coverages are available for commercial lines?

The Association offers Loss of Business Income under a form that is similar to the ISO Loss of Business Income, Monthly Limitation form.  Options for 1/3, ‘1/4, and 1/6 monthly limitation are available.

      What limits are available for commercial lines?

If the applicant / insured is the building owner, the limit for Loss of Business Income shall not exceed the lesser of:

    (1)       150% of the Building limit, or
                (2)       $500,000

If the applicant / insured is not the building owner, the limit for Loss of Business Income shall not exceed the lesser of:

               (1)       200% of the Business Personal Property limit, or
               (2)       $500,000

As of July 1, 2003, the Association will issue Loss of Business Income Coverage for “contents only” risks up to $100,000 regardless of the contents amounts.  This was done to assist businesses with small inventories but high sales turnover.

If additions and alterations coverage is included on the policy, the Loss of Business Income Coverage is based on the Business Personal Property limits without regard to the existence of the additions and alterations coverage included under the building coverage.

Remember that the Loss of Business Income Limits must be included within the Commercial Lines Maximum Limit of $2,500,000.

      How does the deductible apply to these coverages?

If the rates are based on an insured building or contents with a 1% deductible, then a 10 day waiting period applies.

If the rates are based on an insured building or contents with a 2% deductible, then a 15 day waiting period applies.

      Is Extra Expense Coverage provided?

Extra Expense Coverage is provided only to the extent that it reduces the loss.  For example, the Association would pay a $1,000 Extra Expense payment if it reduced the Loss of Business Income payment by $1,000 or more.

      Is contingent Loss of Business Income available?

No. The policy requires that coverage is based on direct damage to property insured under the policy.   Other people’s property not insured under the policy in question would not generate a covered loss for this coverage.

      Is it necessary to perform a gross earnings calculation?

No.  This is a simplified form and there is no coinsurance provision; however, do not be mislead.  It is important to accurately estimate the exposure to determine the proper limit.

For a copy of the last Wind Update, please go to www.scwind.com and click on Bulletins.

Download/View a copy of bulletin 04-04 here.

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Bulletin 04-05 July 1, 2004

2004 HURRICANE SEASON

Hurricane Season is here . . . and experts predict a busy season!  In the event of a storm, it is important for you to understand your role in the claims process.

Should a storm approach the South Carolina Coast, the Association will fax updated claims instructions to each agency.   Until then, here are the basic instructions:

• Report all claims to the Association Office.

• Do NOT assign the claims.

• Do NOT adjust the claims.

• Do NOT authorize permanent repairs or the destruction of property.

      What if it is a major storm?

The Association will alert you to the implementation of the Single Adjuster Program by global fax.  Under this program, the Association will assign both the losses of the SC Wind policy and the flood policy.

At that time, we will . . .

• Send you pre-printed loss notices with policy data.

• Alert you to the toll-free fax number to report claims.

• Provide you with additional information.

      How do I know ift my flood company participates in the Single Adjuster Program?

Insurance companies that participate in the National Flood Insurance Program are known as Write-Your-Own Flood Companies (WYO’S).   Their contract with the Flood Program requires them to participate.

If you have a specific question about your flood company, please contact the Association Office.

      What if I know there is no flood (or wind) damage to the property?

Under the Single Adjuster Program, if there is a SC Wind Policy and a WYO Flood Policy on a damaged risk, a qualified wind and flood adjuster will visit the risk.  This prevents future questions if flood (or wind) damage is found at a later time.

      If power is out, how can we fax loss notices to you?

A number of alternatives are available.  The day after the evacuation order was lifted for Hugo, the US Mail had overnight service to Columbia.  Other overnight services are available.  Should the situation warrant, the Association will establish pick-up points and courier the loss notices to Columbia.  Should your agency have power, we hope you will fax loss notices for others who may not have power.

      How do we know that you received the claim?

The Association will assign the claim the day it is received.  A packet is prepared for the adjuster confirming SC Wind coverage.

An assignment letter is sent to the insured and to the broker.  Under the Single Adjuster Program, a copy of the letter and loss notice is sent to the flood company confirming the assignment.  A copy of the flood company letter is also sent to the National Flood Insurance Program.

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If you have other questions about hurricane claims handling, please email info@scwind.com.

Download/View a copy of bulletin 04-05 here.

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Bulletin 04-06 July 15, 2004

2004 HURRICANE SEASON, PART II

The last issue raised a number of questions concerning claims handling.  Please let us share the questions and answers with you.

      What if SC Wind is without power?  How can you receive faxes?

The Association is supported by a generator that can run all of the office equipment including the phones and the computers.  In the event of power failure, the computers go immedialty to battery back-up.  The generator will be providing power within seven seconds.

In addition, the Association is located on a main power line.  We anticipate being returned to full power as soon as possible.

      Is it possible to bring loss notices to your office?

Yes.  While we will not be able to visit with you when you come by, you may drop off the loss notices for prompt assignment.

      Other than the assignment letter, what other types of reports will be received?

After the initial assignments, we will send each agency a cumulative report showing each claim and the adjusting firm handling it.  This will become a weekly report. 

      How do we know that you received the claim?

The Association will assign the claim the day it is received.  A packet is prepared for the adjuster confirming SC Wind coverage.

An assignment letter is sent to the insured and to the broker.  Under the Single Adjuster Program, a copy of the letter and loss notice are sent to the flood company confirming the assignment.  A copy of the flood company letter is also sent to the National Flood Insurance Program.

      Where should we send loss notices?

A toll-free fax number will be provided prior to the storm.  The Association uses a service that has a large number of roll-over lines so that you will not receive a busy signal when you fax.

Note the different Zip Codes!

      What tips do you have for brokers reporting claims?

First, describe the loss.  We will provide you with pre-printed loss notices with all of the basic information filled-in.  We need you to accurately describe the loss.  Do not say “Wind Damage” or “Hurricane Loss.”  Please tell us “Roof Missing” or “One Shingle Bent.”  This will allow us to prioritize the claims.

• If you fax in the claim notice, do not mail another copy.  This only slows down the process.

• Keep a record of claims filed.

• Contact us if you do not receive an assignment letter.

      Who is the claims manager?

Bill Morrison is the Claims Manager.  His phone number is 803/779-8373, ext 21.  His email address is bill@scwind.com.

For a copy of the last Wind Update, please go to www.scwind.com and click on Bulletins.

Download/View a copy of bulletin 04-06 here.

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Tropical Storm Alex August 1, 2004

TROPICAL STORM ALEX

***   UPDATE   ***

Tropical Storm Alex is currently located off the South Carolina Coast.   Areas of South Carolina are experiencing strong winds and heavy rains as storm bands come ashore. Tropical storm watches and warnings have been issued for the South Carolina Coast.

While we anticipate minimal damage, the Association is prepared to respond.  Claim adjusters are standing by to assist as needed.

Please note the following . . .

• The Single Adjuster Program has NOT been implemented.  Report SCWHUA wind claims to the Association.  Report flood claims to your flood carrier.

• Combined wind and flood loss notices are NOT being produced.  Please report your SCWHUA wind claims using ACORD Loss Notices.

• Report all claims to the Association Office.  Do NOT adjust or settle claims.

• The toll-free claims fax number is active.  Fax loss notices to:

SCWHUA CLAIMS FAX NUMBER

1-877-290-6844

If you have any questions, please contact the Association Office.

Download/View a copy of bulletin for TS Alex here.

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TS Bonnie & Hurricane Charley August 12, 2004

TS BONNIE AND HURRICANE CHARLEY

***   UPDATE   *** 

It appears that both storms will bring heavy rains to the South Carolina Coast.  Strong winds are not anticipated; however, thunderstorms and tornadoes are possible.

The Association will be checking the fax machine throughout the weekend for reported claims.  Claims Manager Bill Morrison will be monitoring his voice mail (803/ 779-8373, ext 21) for any claims inquiries.

Please note the following . . .

• The Single Adjuster Program has NOT been implemented.  Report SCWHUA wind claims to the Association.  Report flood claims to your flood carrier.

• Combined wind and flood loss notices are NOT being produced.  Please report your SCWHUA wind claims using ACORD Loss Notices.

• Report all claims to the Association Office.  Do NOT adjust or settle claims.

• The toll-free claims fax number is active.  Fax loss notices to:

SCWHUA CLAIMS FAX NUMBER

1-877-290-6844

If you have any questions, please contact the Association Office.

Download/View a copy of bulletin for TS Bonnie & Hurricane Charley here.

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Hurricane Charley August 16, 2004

HURRICANE CHARLEY

***   UPDATE   ***

Hurricane Charley has caused a number of losses along the South Carolina Coast.  Most damage appears to be light to moderate; however, there are some Coastal Consumers experiencing significant losses.

The Association Staff was available over the weekend to respond to claim reports.  A special “Thank You!” goes out to the agencies that worked this weekend to assist policyholders with claims.

Please fax all claims notices to the SCWHUA Claims Toll-Free Fax Number.

Please note the following . . .

• The Single Adjuster Program has NOT been implemented.  Report SCWHUA wind claims to the Association.  Report flood claims to your flood carrier.

• Please describe the damage.  “Roof missing” or “Many shingles gone.”  Please do not simply say “Wind Damage.”

• Cover sheets and the back page of the loss notice are not necessary.

• Report all claims to the Association Office.  Do NOT adjust or settle claims.

• The toll-free claims fax number is active.  Fax loss notices to:

SCWHUA CLAIMS FAX NUMBER

1-877-290-6844

Download/View a copy of bulletin for Hurricane Charley here.

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TS Gaston (01) August 28, 2004

T. S. GASTON

***   UPDATE   ***

At 5:00 pm on Saturday, August 28, 2004, Tropical Storm Gaston was located 115 miles Southeast of Charleston, SC.  The National Weather Service has issued Hurricane Warnings for portions of the South Carolina Coast.

While it is questionable if Gaston will reach hurricane status, there will be wind and rain impacting our coast.  Wind losses may occur.

Please note the following . . .

• The Single Adjuster Program has NOT been implemented.  Report SCWHUA wind claims to the Association.  Report flood claims to your flood carrier.

• Please describe the damage.  “Roof missing” or “Many shingles gone.”  Please do not simply say “Wind Damage.”

• Cover sheets and the back page of the loss notice are not necessary.

• Report all claims to the Association Office.  Do NOT adjust or settle claims.

• The toll-free claims fax number is active.  Fax loss notices to:

SCWHUA CLAIMS FAX NUMBER

1-877-290-6844

Download/View a copy of bulletin for TS Gaston (01) here.

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TS Gaston (02) August 30, 2004

T. S. GASTON

***   UPDATE   ***

Initial reports indicate that T. S. Gaston caused minor, but widespread, damage in the Charleston area.  Existing Charley claims in the Myrtle Beach area have been impacted.

The Association does have adjusters standing by to assist.  Please fax ACORD Loss notices to the toll-free claims fax number listed below.

Please note the following . . .

• The Single Adjuster Program has NOT been implemented.  Report SCWHUA wind claims to the Association.  Report flood claims to your flood carrier.

• Please describe the damage.  “Roof missing” or “Many shingles gone.”  Please do not simply say “Wind Damage.”

• Cover sheets and the back page of the loss notice are not necessary.

• Report all claims to the Association Office.  Do NOT adjust or settle claims.

• The toll-free claims fax number is active.  Fax loss notices to:

SCWHUA CLAIMS FAX NUMBER

1-877-290-6844

Download/View a copy of bulletin for TS Gaston (02) here.

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Hurricane Frances September 1, 2004

HURRICANE FRANCES

***   Single Adjuster Implementation   ***

With the possibility of Hurricane Frances impacting the South Carolina Coast this weekend, the Association is IMPLEMENTING THE SINGLE ADJUSTER PROGRAM for Hurricane Frances.

If you have a SCWHUA policy that matches a flood policy, report both the wind and flood claims to this Association.  We will notify your flood company that a claim has been assigned under the Single Adjuster Program.

Pre-printed loss notices are being distributed.  The loss notices contain SCWHUA policy data as of the close of business on Tuesday, August 31, 2004.  The loss notices also contain the flood information submitted by your office.

Please note the following . . .

• Please describe the damage.  “Roof missing” or “Many shingles gone.”  Please do not simply say “Wind Damage.”

• Cover sheets and the back page of the loss notice are not necessary.

• Report all claims to the Association Office.  Do NOT adjust or settle claims.

• The toll-free claims fax number is active.  Fax loss notices to:

SCWHUA CLAIMS FAX NUMBER

1-877-290-6844

Download/View a copy of bulletin for Hurricane Frances here.

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Hurricane Jeanne September 24, 2004

HURRICANE JEANNE

***   UPDATE   ***

Hurricane Jeanne is approaching the South Carolina Coast – on an erratic path.

While it is questionable if Jeanne will make a direct hit on our state, there will be wind and rain impacting our coast.  Wind losses may occur.

Please note the following . . .

• The Single Adjuster Program has NOT been implemented.  Report SCWHUA wind claims to the Association.  Report flood claims to your flood carrier.

• Please describe the damage.  “Roof missing” or “Many shingles gone.”  Please do not simply say “Wind Damage.”

• Cover sheets and the back page of the loss notice are not necessary.

• Report all claims to the Association Office.  Do NOT adjust or settle claims.

• The toll-free claims fax number is active.  Fax loss notices to:

SCWHUA CLAIMS FAX NUMBER

1-877-290-6844

Download/View a copy of bulletin for Hurricane Jeanne here.

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Bulletin 04-07 December 10, 2004

2005 WIND AND HAIL UPDATE SEMINARS

Announcing the . . . 2005 Wind and Hail Update Seminars!  The Department of Insurance has approved the 2005 seminar for three (3) hours of South Carolina Continuing Education Credit.

The seminar will recertify your agency for the July 1, 2005 to June 30, 2007, time period.  Certified Agencies will receive a 10% commission rate.  Agencies that choose not to certify still have full access to the Association, but will receive a 5% commission rate.

Agencies with 50 or fewer policies need to send at least one licensed person to a seminar.  Agencies with more than fifty policies need to send two or more licensed persons to a seminar.

Seminar Topics . . .   The seminar will review the last two years, cover wind and hail basics, discuss common questions from producers, and present changes for 2005.  Plus, we will have some fun and earn three hours of CE credit.

Round One . . . The Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of South Carolina will co-sponsor the January seminars.  A flyer outlining the registration process with IIABSC is enclosed. 

Scheduled seminars are as follows:

Wednesday, January 12 – Columbia

Tuesday, January 18 – Hilton Head / Beaufort

Wednesday, January 19 – Charleston

Thursday, January 20 – Myrtle Beach

The IIABSC seminars are open to any interested producer.  Please register through IIABSC.

Round Two . . . The Professional Insurance Agents of South Carolina will co-sponsor the February seminars.  A flyer outlining the registration process with PIASC will be mailed to you next week.

Scheduled seminars are as follows:

Wednesday, February 2 – Columbia

Tuesday, February 8 – Greenville / Spartanburg

Wednesday, February 9 – Florence

Thursday, February 10 – Charleston

The PIASC seminars are open to any interested producer.  Please register through PIASC.

Attention Exclusive Allstate Agents . . . Allstate is co-sponsoring a special seminar on March 15, 2005, in Charleston.  Please contact your sales manager for details.

Attention South Carolina Farm Bureau Agents . . .  The Farm Bureau will co-host seminars on April 21^st and 22^nd for Farm Bureau Agents.  Watch for a mailing from Beth Riggins.

Attention North Carolina Agents . . . The Independent Insurance Agents Of North Carolina has filed the course for three hours of North Carolina Continuing Education Credit.  As soon as approval is received, seminars will be announced in Charlotte and Wilmington.

Future Seminars . . . Other seminars for March, April, May, and June are being planned, but do not wait.  Sign up today!

Questions About the Seminars??? . . . Please contact one of our underwriters.

SEE YOU IN CLASS!

Download/View a copy of bulletin 04-07 here.

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Bulletin 04-08 December 16, 2004

Happy Holidays!

In order that we might enjoy the holidays with our families, the Association Office will close at 11:30 am on Thursday, December 23, 2004.  We will re-open at 8:30 am on Tuesday, December 28, 2004.

The claims fax number is 803/ 799 – 3678.  We will be checking the fax machine throughout the holidays.

Download/View a copy of bulletin 04-08 here.

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