Category Archives: Insurance

EPIC Adds Matthew Marmorek as National Practice Leader, Global (Non-U.S.) Employee Benefits

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Matthew Marmorek has joined the firm as National Practice Leader, Global (Non-U.S.) Employee Benefits.

Marmorek has worked in the international employee benefits industry for almost two decades. He specializes in developing innovative solutions to help multinational organizations meet their global employee benefit needs. He has extensive experience guiding clients through the implementation of financing vehicles such as multinational pooling, global underwriting, and captive arrangements, both on and off-shore including medical, non-medical and pension coverage.

Marmorek brings deep carrier relations and has worked with a network of international brokers to assist with ex-patriate, third country and local national population placements. His expertise will bring a new level of strength to the Employee Benefits team within EPIC.

At the start of his international benefits career, Marmorek grew and managed a large customer portfolio within the multinational benefits unit of a major U.S. based global insurer providing solutions in over 100 countries. Prior to joining EPIC, Marmorek was with Zurich Insurance Group. While there he assisted in the launch of their US based Expatriate Solutions Unit, oversaw new business development and acted as a liaison for key external partnerships. His experience provides him with a unique and specialized understanding of the global employee benefits landscape.

Marmorek earned a Bachelor of Science degree from University of Wisconsin-Madison. He is a licensed life and health underwriter.

Said Craig Hasday, President, National Employee Benefits Practice, "Early in my career, I worked with Matt on a global pooling arrangement for one of my first global clients and was very impressed with his knowledge and professionalism. Our organization needs world-class talent to provide our clients and consultants with the most innovative and cost-effective solutions in this unique space. Matt brings to EPIC the necessary skills, knowledge and commitment and I am pleased to welcome him to EPIC."

Matthew Marmorek can be reached at:
matthew.marmorek[at]epicbrokers.com
646.515.7600(m)

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0317s2p-EPIC-Marmorek-300dpi.jpg

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Matthew Marmorek has joined the firm as National Practice Leader, Global (Non-U.S.) Employee Benefits.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

OpenClose Partners with Genworth Mortgage Insurance to Offer a Streamlined Mortgage Insurance Process from within its LenderAssist LOS

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- OpenClose®, the industry-leading multi-channel loan origination system (LOS) and digital mortgage fintech provider, announced it has partnered with Genworth Mortgage Insurance, an operating segment of Genworth Financial (NYSE: GNW), establishing a direct integration to access mortgage insurance (MI) from the LenderAssist™ LOS platform.

The new integration works by leveraging OpenClose's RESTful API Suite, IntegrationAssist™, which makes interfacing with disparate systems easier to develop, quicker to implement and cost effective to maintain. Genworth is a full-service MI provider known for exceptional coverage, service and value. The Fortune 500 company has provided secure mortgage products for nearly 40 years. Its offerings are available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

"Providing real-time access to mortgage insurance pricing and certification workflow from within OpenClose helps our customers further automate their lending workflow and reduce costs. Our integration partnership with Genworth allows our mutual customers to immediately tap into their quality MI products," said Vince Furey, chief revenue officer (CRO) at OpenClose. "We are the industry leader in customer service and ease-of-use and this integration highlights that reality."

OpenClose customers can expect a seamless user experience within the LenderAssist™ LOS that optimizes the mortgage insurance pricing and certification process, eliminates data re-entry and returns MI commitment data and documents to the LenderAssist™ LOS.

"We're excited to partner with OpenClose, one of the leading LOS vendors in the industry," said Kevin McMahon, senior vice president of Customer Solutions at Genworth Mortgage Insurance. "Making it easier and more efficient to order MI from start to finish makes the overall lending process smoother for homebuyers."

About OpenClose:

Founded in 1999 and headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida, OpenClose® is a leading enterprise-class, multi-channel loan origination system (LOS), POS digital mortgage and fintech provider that cost effectively delivers its digital platform on a software-as-a-service (SaaS) basis. The company provides a variety of innovative, 100 percent web-based solutions for lenders, banks, credit unions, and conduit aggregators. OpenClose's core solution, LenderAssist™, is comprehensive loan origination software that is completely engineered by OpenClose using the same code base from the ground up. The company offers a RESTful API suite that standardizes system-to-system integrations, making them easier to develop, quicker to implement and more cost effective. OpenClose provides lending organizations with full control of their data and creates a truly seamless workflow for complete automation and compliance adherence. For more information, visit https://www.openclose.com/ or call (561) 655-6418.

About Genworth Mortgage Insurance:

Genworth Mortgage Insurance, an operating segment of Genworth Financial, Inc. (NYSE: GNW), is headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina, and operates in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Genworth Mortgage Insurance works with lenders and other partners to help people responsibly achieve and maintain the dream of homeownership by ensuring the broad availability of affordable low down payment mortgage loans. Genworth has been providing mortgage insurance products and services in the U.S. since 1981. Visit the company's website at new.mortgageinsurance.genworth.com.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
For OpenClose:
Joe Bowerbank
Profundity Communications, Inc.
949-378-9685
jbowerbank@profunditymarketing.com

For Genworth Mortgage Insurance:
Brittany Harris-Flowers
Genworth Mortgage Insurance
919-846-4417
brittany.harris-flowers@genworth.com

OpenClose Social Media: @OpenClose_LOS #OpenClose #LoanOriginationSoftware

Genworth Social Media: @GenworthMI #GenworthMI #MortgageInsurance

OpenClose®, the industry-leading multi-channel loan origination system (LOS) and digital mortgage fintech provider, announced it has partnered with Genworth Mortgage Insurance, an operating segment of Genworth Financial (NYSE: GNW), establishing a direct integration to access mortgage insurance (MI) from the LenderAssist™ LOS platform.

Related link: https://www.openclose.com/

EPIC Adds Nick Nelson as Senior Vice President, Property and Casualty

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Nick Nelson has joined the firm as Senior Vice President in their property and casualty practice based in Rancho Cordova, California office. Nelson will report to Kevin E. Harnetiaux, COO, Pacific North Region.

Nelson brings nearly 15 years of insurance and financial services experience to his role. He will be responsible for business development, program placement and delivery of complex solutions to EPIC clients including attorneys and golf and country clubs. He has a strong background in building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, vendors, colleagues and managers throughout his career.

Prior to joining EPIC, Nelson has held the positions of Vice President, Property & Casualty and Vice President, Business Development officer with USI Insurance Services and Wells Fargo. Within both organizations he worked closely with senior leadership of his clients to deliver consulting and brokerage services for all commercial lines and workers' compensation coverages.

Nelson earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Recreation Management from Flagler in St. Augustine, Florida. He graduated summa cum laude and was a two-time NAIA Academic All-American.

Said Kevin Harnetiaux, COO, Pacific North Region, "We are fortunate to have Nick join our growing team and look forward to the expertise and dedication he will bring to our clients."

Nick Nelson can be reached at:
nick.nelson@epicbrokers.com
916.990.3210(m)
916.576.1543(w)

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0313s2p-nick-nelson-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: Nick Nelson has joined EPIC as Senior Vice President in their property and casualty practice based in Rancho Cordova, California office

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Nick Nelson has joined the firm as Senior Vice President in their property and casualty practice based in Rancho Cordova, California office. Nelson will report to Kevin E. Harnetiaux, COO, Pacific North Region.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

After, Inc. just launched its latest whitepaper on Warranty Marketing and Predictive Analytics

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- After, Inc., the global leader in Warranty Services since 2005, just announced the launch of its latest whitepaper on Warranty Marketing. The whitepaper, entitled "Optimizing Warranty Marketing with Predictive Analytics" offers readers a playbook of the most effective predictive models and marketing strategies to employ in order to increase revenue and profits in their Warranty Marketing programs.

Over the past 15 years, After, Inc. has mastered the use of predictive analytics in its Warranty Marketing campaigns for top manufacturing brands, helping them achieve higher attachment rates, customer satisfaction, and loyalty.

In its latest whitepaper, After, Inc. shares:
* the three most effective predictive models for warranty marketing
* how these models can be used to maximize revenue and profits, and
* a case study of how After Inc. helped one of the largest appliance manufacturers in the world optimize its warranty marketing programs.

To download a free copy of the whitepaper, click the link: http://afterinc.com/after-inc-whitepaper-how-to-optimize-warranty-marketing-with-predictive-analytics/

About After, Inc.

After, Inc. ( http://afterinc.com/ ) is a global leader in the Warranty Services industry, providing predictive analytics, data-driven marketing strategies, reporting and program administration to some of the world's top brands. After, Inc. helps manufacturers transform their warranty businesses, driving customer satisfaction post-purchase, higher product reliability, deeper brand equity and additional revenue / profit opportunities.

Headquartered in Norwalk, Connecticut. and with offices in New York City, After, Inc. is part of EPIC Portfolio Group, a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm with over 2,600 employees across the United States.

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/18-1030s2p-after-inc-300dpi.jpg

After, Inc., the global leader in Warranty Services since 2005, just announced the launch of its latest whitepaper on Warranty Marketing. The whitepaper, entitled "Optimizing Warranty Marketing with Predictive Analytics" offers readers a playbook of the most effective predictive models and marketing strategies to employ in order to increase revenue and profits in their Warranty Marketing programs.

Related link: http://afterinc.com/

Matthew LeBlanc named Eastern Region Healthcare Practice Leader for Edgewood Healthcare Advisors, a division of EPIC

BOSTON, Mass. /ScoopCloud/ -- Edgewood Healthcare Advisors, a division of EPIC announced today that Matthew LeBlanc has been named Healthcare Practice Leader for the Eastern Region reporting to Susan Tewhill, National Healthcare Practice Leader for Edgewood Healthcare Advisors.

LeBlanc has been in the healthcare liability market for over 15 years, most recently leading the Physician practice based in West Hartford, Connecticut. In his expanded role, LeBlanc will be responsible for overseeing Edgewood Healthcare Advisors Eastern Region as well as retention and growth of the practice. He will continue his leadership role with the Physician Practice as well.

LeBlanc has held positions as Partner/Broker at Healthcare Risk Specialists and Underwriter during his career. LeBlanc holds a Bachelor's Degree in Public Relations from Quinnipiac University. He has also earned a Registered Professional Liability Underwriter designation.

Said Susan Tewhill, National Managing Principal, "We are thrilled to have Matt step into this added leadership role and know that he will help the practice grow and provide consulting services to our clients in the healthcare industry."

Matthew LeBlanc can be reached at:
matthew.leblanc@epicbrokers.com
860.521.8555 (Main)
978.808.9716 (Mobile)

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0305s2p-matt-leblanc-300dpi.jpg
*Caption: Matthew LeBlanc has been named Healthcare Practice Leader for the Eastern Region at Edgewood Healthcare Advisors.

Edgewood Healthcare Advisors, a division of EPIC announced today that Matthew LeBlanc has been named Healthcare Practice Leader for the Eastern Region reporting to Susan Tewhill, National Healthcare Practice Leader for Edgewood Healthcare Advisors.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Announces Tim Brenneman as President and National Private Client Practice Leader

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC announced today that Tim Brenneman has been named President and National Private Client Practice Leader for its newly reorganized National Private Client Practice team reporting to Executive Chairman and Co-Founder John Hahn. "Tim is a well-known and respected leader in this space having built a formidable Private Client business for Cook Maran and Prime Risk. We are very excited about our strategy to change the game from a legacy transactional play to one of high touch concierge consultative services as well as creative risk management solutions for High Net Worth clients."

The national practice reinforces EPIC's commitment to personal and private client business and will support the company's aggressive growth plans in this space. EPIC's regional offices today provide insurance consultation and protection to more than 45,000 individuals nationwide. In addition to the core protections of auto, home, and liability, a unique offering designed to protect emerging risks including cyber, D&O, reputational risk, and investor fraud will allow clients to customize protection around their individual risk profile.

Brenneman recently joined EPIC after Prime Risk Partners was acquired by the firm in November 2019. He spent the past 30 years as the personal and private client business leader for Cook Maran & Associates, a regional brokerage based out of East Hampton, NY and with offices throughout New York and New Jersey.

Said Tim Brenneman: "We already have regional teams with tremendous capabilities and this will be an opportunity to build a best practices organization around a national sales, service, and support structure. We have great potential and I couldn't be more excited to get started."

About EPIC Holdings

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0303s2p-Tim-Brenneman-300dpi.jpg

EPIC announced today that Tim Brenneman has been named President and National Private Client Practice Leader for its newly reorganized National Private Client Practice team reporting to Executive Chairman and Co-Founder John Hahn.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute Now A Tier 1 In-Network Provider with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey

FREEHOLD, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute (AOSMI) announced today that it is now a TIER 1 in-network provider with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey (Horizon BCBSNJ). AOSMI is participating in all Horizon BCBSNJ medical plans including OMNIA℠ Health plans. Horizon BCBSNJ members with OMNIA℠ Health plans have lower co-pays and lower deductibles when they choose an OMNIA℠ TIER 1 provider for their health care services.

"We are excited to offer Horizon plan participants access to our wide range of orthopedic care services," says Michael M. Greller, MD, MBA, CPE, FAAOS, managing partner of AOSMI. "We look forward to working with Horizon to provide our patients and communities with greater access to high-quality orthopedic care."

Established in 2007, Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute is the result of a merger between two of the Freehold area's longest-tenured medical groups - Western Monmouth Orthopedic Associates and New Jersey Orthopedic Associates. Over the last 25 years, each has earned a stellar reputation throughout the community as a true leader in the practice of orthopedics, sports medicine, interventional pain management, podiatry and physical therapy services. Through the consolidation of the practices, AOSMI has achieved great synergies, and by drawing on the complementary strengths of each, it is able to deliver a truly exceptional patient experience.

Senior physicians at AOSMI with longstanding relationships with patients and a history of positive outcomes are board-certified orthopedic surgeons Michael Greller, MD, Alan Nasar, MD, Gregg Berkowitz, MD, James Cozzarelli, MD and Grigory Goldberg, MD. Together with other physicians on staff, they treat all orthopedic problems of the hips, knees, ankles, feet, shoulders, elbows, hands, spine and neck. Some treatments they provide are arthroscopic surgery; shoulder, hip and knee surgery; cartilage and ligament repair; total joint replacement; orthotics and foot care; minimally invasive spine surgery; nerve pain blocks; injections and regenerative medicine.

"As an OMNIA TIER 1 network provider of Horizon, we are committed to providing our patients with the best patient experience and outcomes," Dr. Greller says. "Our mission is to help all our patients live their lives as actively and pain free as possible. We look forward to growing the state-of-the-art services we can provide in the communities we serve."

AOSMI has offices in Freehold and Monroe and is accepting new patients at each location. It also offers same day appointments for urgent care.

Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute is an orthopedic, sports medicine, interventional pain management, podiatry and physical therapy center that helps patients throughout New Jersey return to their normal activities as soon as possible. AOSMI utilizes the latest advanced therapies to provide patients the highest level of care. The physicians are Michael Greller, MD, MBA, Alan Nasar, MD, Gregg Berkowitz, MD, James Cozzarelli, MD, Grigory Goldberg, MD, Gerardo Goldberger, DO, Alison DeWaters, DPM, Stacey Gallacher, MD, Eric Buxbaum, DO, Ali Valimahomed, MD and John Georgy, MD, MBA.

More information about AOSMI can be found at https://advancedorthosports.com/.

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0302s2p-advanced-ortho-300dpi.jpg

Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute (AOSMI) announced today that it is now a TIER 1 in-network provider with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey (Horizon BCBSNJ). AOSMI is participating in all Horizon BCBSNJ medical plans including OMNIA℠ Health plans.

Related link: https://advancedorthosports.com/

EPIC Adds Dan Joyal as a Vice President with Edgewood Healthcare Advisors

BOSTON, Mass. /ScoopCloud/ -- Edgewood Healthcare Advisors, a division of EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, announced that Dan Joyal has joined the Boston healthcare team as a Vice President.

Joyal has a decade of insurance industry experience with both retail and wholesale brokerages. Prior to joining EPIC, Joyal was with HUB International where he consulted and placed all lines of coverage in their healthcare vertical. His clients included physician groups, allied healthcare facilities and life sciences organizations. Prior to Hub, Joyal spent five years with CRC Swett & Crawford focused on professional liability; executive liability; and cyber/privacy liability.

Joyal earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Vermont in Burlington, Vermont. He is a licensed Property & Casualty broker and is currently pursuing a Registered Professional Liability Underwriter (RPLU) designation.

Said Susan Tewhill, National Practice Leader, Edgewood Healthcare Advisors, "We are fortunate to have Dan join our growing national healthcare practice. He brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise that will benefit our clients and our organization."

"The Boston Healthcare team is excited to welcome Dan as a healthcare broker. His track record of excellent client service and healthcare knowledge will bring added value to our clients." said Julie Buckley, Managing Principal, Edgewood Healthcare Advisors.

Dan Joyal can be reached at:
dan.joyal@epicbrokers.com
508.212.4071(m)
617.531.6870(w)

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0302s2p-dan-joyal-300dpi.jpg

Edgewood Healthcare Advisors, a division of EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, announced that Dan Joyal has joined the Boston healthcare team as a Vice President.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Adds Trent Sullivan as a Producer in the firm’s Edgewood Healthcare Advisors Practice

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Trent Sullivan has joined the firm as a Producer in the firm's Edgewood Healthcare Advisors' Practice.

Sullivan will be responsible for new business development and the design and management of healthcare risk and insurance programs for clients. Sullivan brings over 20 years of experience in healthcare and municipal risk with successes in implementing creative and cost-effective solutions. Sullivan joins from OneDigital in Farmington, Connecticut.

Said Susan Tewhill, National Managing Principal, "Trent's extensive healthcare risk management background in both the client, carrier and consultant settings, as well as his in-depth understanding of the complex healthcare marketplace will provide immediate and long-term value to our clients. We are excited to add Trent to our growing national healthcare practice team."

"Trent's healthcare experience and successes in both the consultative and client roles will be of great value to our Edgewood Healthcare Advisor clients. We have thoughtfully built this practice with key players who share a common drive to provide exceptional solutions and service and I could not be more excited to have Trent join our team," said Matt LeBlanc, Edgewood Healthcare Advisor's Managing Principal.

Trent Sullivan can be reached at:
trent.sullivan@epicbrokers.com
860-713-8211(m)
860-521-8555(w)

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

*Image link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0221s2p-epic-healthcare-adv-300dpi.jpg
*Image caption: Logo, Edgewood Healthcare Advisors, a division of EPIC.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Trent Sullivan has joined the firm as a Producer in the firm's Edgewood Healthcare Advisors' Practice.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

After, Inc. to Share Predictive Analytics Insights at the 2020 Field Service Medical Conference

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- After, Inc., the global leader in Warranty Analytics Solutions since 2005, announced today that it will be a major participant and sponsor at the Field Service Medical Conference in San Diego, California on February 24-26, 2020.

The conference brings together over 500 senior level service executives from the Medical Device Field Service community to share best practices and discover the latest topics and trends guiding the future of the industry.

After, Inc.'s SVP of Business Development, Dan Hulkower, will be speaking at the conference on the subject of "Leveraging Predictive Analytics to Optimize Field Service Performance and Customer Experience." To see a list of all the speakers as well as a full agenda, you can visit the Field Service Medical Conference site at https://fieldservicemd.wbresearch.com/.

Last year at this event, After, Inc. announced its launch of a suite of optimization solutions, specifically designed for the Field Service Medical industry.

CEO, Nate Baldwin, describes their new product suite: "Our set of predictive analytics solutions for Field Services organizations is changing the game. Our clients are now able to identify the major cost drivers in their businesses and accurately predict equipment failures. Our models help them be proactive and develop strategies to address equipment breakdowns before they happen, leading to higher levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty."

If you plan to be at the event, stop by the After, Inc. Booth (#101) to meet their senior executives and discuss how their Field Services Optimization Solutions can help your organization solve its current business challenges.

About After, Inc.

After, Inc. (http://afterinc.com/) is a global leader in the Warranty Services industry, providing predictive analytics, data-driven marketing strategies, reporting and program administration to some of the world's top brands. After helps manufacturers transform their warranty businesses, driving customer satisfaction post-purchase, higher product reliability, deeper brand equity and additional revenue / profit opportunities.

Headquartered in Norwalk, Connecticut. and with offices in New York City, After, Inc. is part of EPIC Portfolio Group, a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm with over 2,600 employees across the United States.

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/18-1030s2p-after-inc-300dpi.jpg

After, Inc., the global leader in Warranty Analytics Solutions since 2005, announced today that it will be a major participant and sponsor at the Field Service Medical Conference in San Diego, California on February 24-26, 2020.

Related link: http://afterinc.com/

EPIC Adds Wesley Carson as Senior Vice President, Expanding Employee Benefits Team

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Wesley Carson has joined the firm as a Senior Vice President, Employee Benefits in their Sacramento, California office.

Carson, will be responsible for employee benefits consulting and the design, placement and management of custom programs. He will primarily focus on mid to large group plans with EPIC clients.

Carson brings over 20 years of experience in health and benefits consulting. His background includes experience in employee benefits, health insurance, professional liability, property & casualty insurance. Prior to joining EPIC, Carson held positions as senior vice president, health and benefits and vice president with Aon and Hub International.

Carson has studied at the University of Nevada, Reno and earned a Business degree in Finance from California State University, Chico.

"We are thrilled to add another employee benefits expert to our growing team, Wesley brings strong skills in this area and will be a great addition," said John Connell, Regional President, Employee Benefits, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, Concord, CA.

Wesley Carson can be reached at wesley.carson@epicbrokers.com or (415) 640-7460.

"Wes' experience, proven track record of success and strong focus on client solutions make him an excellent addition to our talented benefits team," adds Kevin Harnetiaux, Senior Vice President and COO, Pacific North Region.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Wesley Carson has joined the firm as a Senior Vice President, Employee Benefits in their Sacramento, California office.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Adds Blake Chauvin as Vice President – Will Further Expand EPIC’s Risk Management Capabilities

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Blake Chauvin has joined the firm as a Producer in their Concord, California office.

Chauvin, will be responsible for risk management consulting and the design, placement and management of property and casualty insurance programs. He will primarily focus on Private Equity and M&A clients and their unique needs.

Chauvin brings over 20 years of experience in risk management and business consulting. He has a wealth of knowledge in working with clients in technology, energy, and healthcare, large retail and real estate. Prior to joining EPIC, Chauvin held positions with Alliant Insurance Services, Zurich North America and CNA Insurance.

Chauvin earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA in Finance from California State University, East Bay where he graduated Cum Laude. He is a licensed property & casualty underwriter and holds an Associate in Risk Management designation.

"We are excited to have Blake join our firm, he will be able to bring significant expertise to our clients in the private equity and M&A space," said Curt Perata, Regional President, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, Concord, CA.

Blake Chauvin can be reached at blake.chauvin@epicbrokers.com or (925) 915.6620.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Blake Chauvin has joined the firm as a Producer in their Concord, California office.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Continues Expansion of Employee Benefits Practice with a new Pharmacy Practice Leader

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today they are continuing to expand their employee benefits resources with the addition of a new Pharmacy Practice Leader, Bob Eisendrath. We are also pleased to announce that we have promoted Craig Hasday to President, National Employee Benefits Practice leader and Cindy Santangelo to National Voluntary Benefits Practice Leader.

Bob Eisendrath brings a strong background in pharmacy benefit management. He brings experience both in sales and national account management, with CVS Caremark for 20 years where he was most recently Area Vice President for Coalition Business. "The addition of Bob will further strengthen our Pharmacy consulting practice as he leads the team through the rapidly changing legislative and therapeutic landscape as our clients grapple with increasing pharmacy prices, one of the most problematic components of escalating cost," said Craig Hasday, National Employee Benefits Practice Leader.

Craig Hasday has been promoted to President, National Employee Benefits Leader. Said Steve Denton, President, EPIC Holdings, "For the past eighteen months, Craig has led EPIC's National Employee Benefits Operations Board. In that role, Craig has worked closely with the geographic employee benefits leaders and has done an incredible job bringing our national teams together."

During this time, EPIC has seen increased communication and enhancements across the board in service offerings for our clients. Further, EPIC has seen great improvement in revenue growth, profitability, and integration of its vast employee benefits platform. Employee Benefits revenue of over $170 million which represents over 20% of EPIC's retail revenue.

Promoting Cindy Santangelo to the new national role as lead of EPIC's Voluntary Benefits practice highlights EPIC's growing focus on the changing workplace dynamic of offering personalized benefits. Santangelo has been with EPIC for 12 years and spent the past 5 years building and growing the Voluntary Benefits practice within EPIC's national Employee Benefit platform. She brings a wealth of knowledge to her role in employee paid worksite benefits consulting as she fully understands how to create a customized program to meet individualized needs.

"We are fortunate to have someone with her expertise on our team to support our clients and other EPIC consultants," said John Gaffney, VP. National Employee Benefits Operations.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 70 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $730 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today they are continuing to expand their employee benefits resources with the addition of a new Pharmacy Practice Leader, Bob Eisendrath.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Launches National Farm and Ranch Practice

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today they are expanding their insurance offering in the Farm & Ranch Insurance market with the practice being led by Chris Moore (President, EPIC Farm & Ranch). The Farm & Ranch practice will be a culmination of specialists in Indiana and Florida serving clients across a national footprint.

Chris joined EPIC from ONI Risk Partners where he led the Farm & Agribusiness practice. ONI Risk Partners was a part of the acquisition of Prime Risk Partners by EPIC in November 2019. Chris currently works with over 100 farm clients across 12 states. Chris has co-created specialty insurance products beyond standard property & casualty products.

Chris created the first health insurance product that protects hog producers against PRRS and PEDv (two major viruses that disrupt production) as well as the first Foreign Animal Disease (FAD) insurance program to exist in the United States. Chris understands that new risks emerge as farms evolve.

The Farm & Ranch practice's primary focus is working with their clients to proactively manage emerging risks. By proactively managing their risks, farmers and ranchers can move forward in confidence knowing their downside is protected.

In partnership with the team from the Jerry Parks Agency, a division of EPIC and their specialty expertise in equine insurance, it is a perfect match to build a strong practice and partnership moving forward offering our clients the best in farm and ranch insurance consulting.

For more information please contact:

Chris Moore via email chris.moore@epicbrokers.com or via phone at (317) 650-4519.

Scott Davis, President, National Specialty Group, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, said, "We are very excited about expanding our capabilities in the area of Farm, Ranch and Equine business and know that with Chris at the helm of the practice we will see much success."

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, please visit: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today they are expanding their insurance offering in the Farm & Ranch Insurance market with the practice being led by Chris Moore (President, EPIC Farm & Ranch).

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Scott Morrison, one of the founders of After, Inc., returns to company after sale to EPIC Holdings

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- After, Inc., the global leader in Warranty Marketing and Analytics Solutions since 2005, has just announced the return of Scott Morrison, an original founder, to lead new business development and strategic innovation for the company.

Morrison has been named Executive Vice President, and will use his extensive experience in Warranty Analytics, Warranty Marketing, and Warranty Innovation to help bring incremental revenue and cost reductions to each client's Warranty Operations.

"Scott has considerable strategic, analytical, and marketing operations knowledge and expertise. which will greatly benefit our clients, both new and existing," said Nate Baldwin, CEO of After, Inc.

Morrison has over 20 years of experience, optimizing Warranty and Service Contract profitability across many verticals, including; Automotive, Marine, Avionics, Power Sports, Power Equipment, Appliances, Consumer Electronics and Medical Devices.

About After, Inc.

After, Inc. - http://www.afterinc.com/ - is a global leader in the Warranty Services industry. Its predictive analytics, data-driven marketing strategies, reporting and program administration are second to none.

After, Inc. has partnered with some of the world's top brands to help transform their warranty businesses, driving customer satisfaction post-purchase, higher product reliability, deeper brand equity and additional revenue / profit opportunities.

Headquartered in Norwalk, Connecticut. and with offices in New York City, After, Inc. is part of EPIC Holdings.

After, Inc., the global leader in Warranty Marketing and Analytics Solutions since 2005, has just announced the return of Scott Morrison, an original founder, to lead new business development and strategic innovation for the company.

Related link: http://afterinc.com/

EPIC Adds Kevin Melvin as Director of the firm’s Southeast Charter School Practice

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Kevin Melvin has joined the firm as Director of the firm's Southeast Charter School Practice.

Melvin will report to Joffrey Clark, EPIC's National Charter School Practice Leader. In his new position, Melvin is responsible for new business development and the design, placement, and management of property and casualty insurance programs, providing risk management strategies and solutions to Charter Schools in North Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and Tennessee.

Melvin joins EPIC from F.N.B. Corporation, where he served as Vice President and Risk Management Advisor. Focused on emerging operational risk while improving the bottom line and risk profile for organizations, he coached clients through implementing effective risk management practices by looking at the total cost of risk. Melvin also spent a large part of his career with McGriff Insurance Services and BB&T.

"Kevin's extensive background supporting Charter Schools brings a wealth of knowledge and rich industry experience to the team," said Joffrey Clark. "I could not be more excited to have Kevin join us."

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our National Charter School Practice," said KJ Wagner, EPIC's President of the Southwest Region. "This team has been built with key players who share an acute focus and background delivering strategic solutions to Charter Schools, and we're proud to keep attracting impressive talent to support the industry."

Kevin Melvin can be reached at kevin.melvin@epicbrokers.com or 704-207-5239.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants:

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Kevin Melvin has joined the firm as Director of the firm's Southeast Charter School Practice.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Papa and Priority Health Announce Strategic Partnership Launch to Offer Senior Citizens More Freedom to Age in Place

MIAMI, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Papa Inc., a nationwide provider for seniors and caregivers announced today its newest partnership with Priority Health. Papa will provide "Grandkids On-Demand" for Priority Health's PriorityMedicare Edge(SM) and PriorityMedicare Ideal(SM) Medicare Advantage plan members. The launch went live January 1, 2020 and it will be the only insurance plan in Michigan to cover services for seniors such as transportation, technology services and companionship to qualified members.

This partnership will improve senior citizen's mental health and help reduce loneliness and social isolation to allow seniors to age in place.

"We are thrilled to partner with Priority Health and help support their Medicare Advantage PriorityMedicare Edge and PriorityMedicare Ideal members in Michigan for their needs as they age in place," said Founder and CEO Andrew Parker. "The partnership is exciting for both organizations."

Aging in place is becoming more popular with senior citizens. A recent survey from AARP (*see note 1) showed that roughly 90% of American seniors wish to live at home for as long as possible. The downside to aging in place is the social isolation it brings. A recent poll from The National Poll on Health Aging (*see note 2) found that more than a quarter of its respondents said they only had social contact once a week, or less, with family members they don't live with, friends and neighbors. Papa's partnership with Priority Health will give seniors more care and companionship.

"We are excited to be the first health plan in Michigan to provide the unique services which Papa provides," said CEO of Priority Health Joan Budden. "Most people are not used to a health care plan that provides in-home assistance to this degree, which is creating excitement in our Medicare community."

About Papa

Papa is a Miami startup that has Grandkids On-Demand who provides assistance and companionship to senior citizens throughout Florida, California, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Texas, Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, South Carolina, Illinois, and Kansas. Papa launched their service in January of 2018. For more information, visit https://www.joinpapa.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/join_papa
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joinpapa/

About Priority Health Plan

With over 30 years in business, Priority Health is the second largest health plan in Michigan, offering a broad portfolio of health benefit options for employer groups and individuals, including Medicare and Medicaid plans. Serving more than a million members each year, and offering a network that includes 97 percent of primary care physicians in Michigan, Priority Health continues to be recognized as a leader for quality, customer service, transparency and product innovation. Priority Health is the smart choice for people seeking affordable, quality health insurance.

Sources:
*NOTE 1: AARP1: https://states.aarp.org/virginia/home-matters-survey
*NOTE 2: Healthy Aging Poll2: http://www.healthyagingpoll.org

Papa Inc., a nationwide provider for seniors and caregivers announced today its newest partnership with Priority Health. Papa will provide "Grandkids On-Demand" for Priority Health's PriorityMedicare Edge and PriorityMedicare Ideal Medicare Advantage plan members.

Related link: https://www.joinpapa.com/

EPIC Launches New National Specialty Practice: Asset Lifecycle Management

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants announced today the launch of a national specialty practice, Asset Lifecycle Management, providing risk consulting and risk transfer solutions focused on clinical and electronic equipment. Large healthcare systems, major universities, and financial institutions rely on electronic equipment to conduct daily operations.

EPIC is a leading provider of equipment maintenance management programs. EPIC's approach reduces a client's cost of maintaining a portfolio of equipment while delivering improved equipment performance, reduced downtime, enhanced internal customer satisfaction.

The EPIC team led by Managing Principals, John Bowman and Tony Gerrato, have extensive industry experience and technical expertise. "We are vendor neutral and recognize that it is critical to custom design our solutions to fit the unique needs of each customer. We use our knowledge and industry expertise to make certain that our clients receive the best value at the right price," said Tony Gerrato.

The EPIC Asset Lifecycle Management approach replaces multiple service agreements and extended warranties with one agreement that costs less and is more flexible than the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) agreements. The team provides a single point of contact for managing service events and our solution delivers coverage that includes the cost associated with parts, labor, travel, emergency repair, and preventative maintenance.

Scott Davis, President of EPIC's National Specialty Practice, said, "We are fortunate to have expertise of this caliber within EPIC bringing solutions to our clients and protecting their businesses."

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants announced today the launch of a national specialty practice, Asset Lifecycle Management, providing risk consulting and risk transfer solutions focused on clinical and electronic equipment. Large healthcare systems, major universities, and financial institutions rely on electronic equipment to conduct daily operations.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Travel Insurance Companies vs. Cruise Lines: Why Shopping Around Is The Better Choice

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- With the kick off of the Cruise Wave Season this month, the time when cruise companies offer the best deals on cruises, TravelInsurance.com urges travelers to purchase travel insurance early to protect their investments and ensure they're covered in the event of travel mishaps. Travel insurance can cover issues that occur both prior to embarkation or during a cruise, wreaking havoc on what is meant to be a dream adventure.

What many cruise travelers may not know is that they have options when it comes to travel insurance, and that by comparing plans, they can secure the best protection for their situation, at the best price.

"Cruises can be a great option for travelers, however they can present unique issues when it comes to travel mishaps, as a missed connection or delayed flight can put an entire trip into peril," said Stan Sandberg, co-founder of TravelInsurance.com. "Travel insurance is an affordable way to protect yourself if something unexpected does arise. Taking the time to find the right options, specific to your circumstances, is important. We highly recommend travelers shop around for the right coverage for their needs."

By taking advantage of captive customers in the booking process, cruise lines generally offer a single or limited selection of options at the time of purchase which may not be cost-effective compared to the options provided from multiple providers through comparison sites like TravelInsurance.com.

Cruisers should be prepared for the following common travel concerns:

Cancellations: Unforeseen circumstances can result in the need to cancel a trip at the last minute -- from work emergencies to illness. Travel insurance companies offer trip cancellation protection which provides refunds for the prepaid, non-refundable cruise costs as well as flights and accommodations booked, if the trip is canceled due to a covered reason. Travel insurance purchased directly through the cruise line may only provide a voucher or credit for a covered cancellation and may cover fewer reasons for cancellations, depending on the plan purchased. And travel insurance purchase directly from the cruise lines may not cover your flights, excursions or accommodations if they weren't purchased with the cruise line or the cruise agency.

Missed Port of Call: Some travel insurance plans are designed specifically for the cruise market. For example, the APRIL Travel Protection Cruise plan, available on TravelInsurance.com, offers coverage in the event a cruise misses a scheduled port of call on the cruise itinerary. The plan will pay an inconvenience fee of $200 per missed port up to $600 if the cruise skips the port.

Missed Connections: The leading causes of missing a cruise ship include delayed flights or adverse weather conditions. Cruise ships run on tight schedules, and they will not cover any missed departure time. Travel insurance (via Missed Connection coverage) can reimburse the traveler for a set dollar amount to re-book travel to catch up with their cruise at the next port.

"It's important to remember that the best time to purchase travel insurance is immediately after buying the cruise ticket," continued Sandberg. "Check multiple providers and compare plans to find the right fit for you and your trip."

By buying right away, coverage will include pre-departure benefits (such as trip cancellation coverage) for the longest period possible. Purchasing early also allows buyers to take advantage of certain available upgrades such as Cancel For Any Reason coverage.

For more information, visit https://www.travelinsurance.com/.

About TravelInsurance.com:
TravelInsurance.com helps simplify the complicated world of travel insurance by providing consumers with the easiest way to compare and buy trip insurance coverage online. A member company of the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, owned and operated by DigiVentures Holdings, LLC, a licensed agency that works with some of the largest travel insurers in the industry. Purchases can be made directly through the website, with policies sent via email within minutes.

With the kick off of the Cruise Wave Season this month, the time when cruise companies offer the best deals on cruises, TravelInsurance.com urges travelers to purchase travel insurance early to protect their investments and ensure they're covered in the event of travel mishaps.

Related link: https://www.travelinsurance.com/

The Mortgage Collaborative Announces Partnership with Mortgage Insurance Provider MGIC

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Mortgage Collaborative (TMC), the mortgage industry's only independent cooperative, is pleased to announce it has signed an agreement with Mortgage Guaranty Insurance Company (MGIC) to be the newest addition to join its Preferred Partner Network.

"We're privileged to have MGIC become part of the collaborative's partner network to kick off 2020. Their industry reputation and company values align with our guiding principles of offering best-in-class products and solutions to our lender member network," said TMC Chief Executive Officer Jim Park.

As the founder of modern private mortgage insurance, MGIC makes homeownership possible for more borrowers through low-down-payment mortgages. MGIC provides lenders with competitive MI rates backed by outstanding customer service and makes originating high-LTV loans safer for financial institutions and mortgage investors.

"We are honored to join TMC's network of top tier lenders and strategic partners. TMC's platform affords us an ideal opportunity to work directly with their growing lending community to help deploy solutions, services and experience that make homeownership attainable and continue to advance the mortgage industry," said MGIC Executive Vice President of Sales and Business Development Jay Hughes.

TMC enters 2020 on the heels of record-breaking growth in 2019, adding 53 new Lender Members, 15 Preferred Partner companies and record attendance at both 2019 winter and summer conference events. MGIC will be an active participant in TMC's 2020 Winter Conference at the historic Roosevelt Hotel in New Orleans, LA from February 16-18, 2020. For more information, visit https://www.mortgagecollaborative.com/tmc-conferences.html.

About The Mortgage Collaborative

Based in San Diego, California, The Mortgage Collaborative was founded in 2013 to empower mortgage lenders across the country with better financial execution, reduced costs, enhanced expertise and improved compliance and to help its members access the dynamic and changing consumer base in America. The association is managed by its founding members: John Robbins, CMB; David Kittle, CMB; Gary Acosta, CEO of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP); and Jim Park, former chair of the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA). Robbins and Kittle are former chairmen of the Mortgage Bankers Association of America (MBA). For more information, visit www.mortgagecollaborative.com.

About Mortgage Guaranty Insurance Corporation

Mortgage Guaranty Insurance Corporation or "MGIC" (www.mgic.com), the principal subsidiary of MGIC Investment Corporation, serves lenders throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, and other locations helping families achieve homeownership sooner by making affordable low-down-payment mortgages a reality. At November 30, 2019, MGIC had $220.7 billion of primary insurance in force covering over one million mortgages.

From time to time MGIC Investment Corporation releases important information via postings on its corporate website, and via postings on MGIC's website for information related to underwriting and pricing, and intends to continue to do so in the future. Such postings include corrections of previous disclosures, and may be made without any other disclosure. Investors and other interested parties are encouraged to enroll to receive automatic email alerts and Really Simple Syndication (RSS) feeds regarding new postings.

Enrollment information for MGIC Investment Corporation alerts can be found at https://mtg.mgic.com/shareholder-services/email-alerts. For information about our underwriting and rate changes, see https://www.mgic.com/underwriting.

The Mortgage Collaborative (TMC), the mortgage industry's only independent cooperative, is pleased to announce it has signed an agreement with Mortgage Guaranty Insurance Company (MGIC) to be the newest addition to join its Preferred Partner Network.

Related link: https://www.mortgagecollaborative.com

Frenkel and Company Completes Transition to EPIC Brand

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Edgewood Partners Insurance Center, which operates as EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants (EPIC), announced today that Frenkel & Company, acquired by EPIC in November 2017, has completed their adoption of the EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants name and brand.

The Frenkel & Company and Frenkel Benefits names will be retired for all Frenkel operations with the exception of Frenkel International which will operate as a specialty division of EPIC. Since joining with EPIC in 2017, Frenkel's associates and practice areas have become integrated into the EPIC business and significantly expanded EPIC's Northeast footprint in risk management, property and casualty insurance, international client services, employee benefits consulting, program solutions and private client services.

Said John Kelly, formerly CEO of Frenkel & Company and now EPIC New York's CEO, "Frenkel's decision to join EPIC has helped us deliver an expansive new set of capabilities to our clients, with the same commitment to service delivery that has been a hallmark of our firm."

Steve Denton, President of EPIC Holdings Inc. noted, "Throughout the past two years we have had the opportunity to integrate our teams, culture and businesses and are proud to now be able to present this unification across the risk management and employee benefits community together as one EPIC. The Frenkel team and capabilities rapidly became ingrained in the EPIC organization and we are excited to kick off 2020 with their full transition to EPIC."

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

Edgewood Partners Insurance Center, which operates as EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants (EPIC), announced today that Frenkel & Company, acquired by EPIC in November 2017, has completed their adoption of the EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants name and brand.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

TravelInsurance.com, A Leading Travel Insurance Comparison Site, Offers Travel Tips to Reduce Stress Over the Holidays

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- This year, more Americans are expected to travel between Dec. 21 and Jan. 1 than ever before, according to the American Automobile Association, making travel mishaps even more likely this holiday season. Whether traveling to be with loved ones or for that end-of-year dream escape, there is a high potential for stress. Crowds can be overwhelming, and weather can quickly throw your plans into disarray. TravelInsurance.com, a leading travel insurance comparison website, offers tips to get you through the holiday travel season smoothly.

"Spending time with friends and family is really what this holiday season is all about; however, making this happen is often easier said than done," said Stan Sandberg, co-founder of TravelInsurance.com. "Whether road-tripping or taking to the skies, travel setbacks have become an inevitable part of travel during the busy season and can range from delays or cancellations to lost luggage. There are, however, some key ways to help alleviate the stress of the season, including purchasing travel insurance, that we encourage all travelers to consider."

Below are some tips from TravelInsurance.com to help reduce stress while traveling during the holidays:

Make a checklist. Holiday travel can involve a lot of things that travel at other times of the year does not. There's packing for different climates, the potential for bad weather, navigating crowds and making sure your holiday presents make it to your final destination. One of the best ways to organize is to make a detailed checklist of everything that needs to be done - from packing to reconfirming reservations to checking weather conditions. Experienced travelers will also create a contact list with all of the important phone numbers for the trip - your hotel, your car rental agency, your airline, your travel insurance provider, and friends or family you are meeting at your destination. Depending on your destination, consider keeping an electronic vault with your credit card numbers, photos of your passport or other identification to easily access if your belongings get lost or are stolen.

Purchase travel insurance. There are many problems that can arise during any trip; flights can get canceled or delayed, baggage can get lost, stolen or damaged, medical emergencies can occur, or work obligations can come between you and your vacation. "A good travel insurance policy covers all of these possible scenarios and more," continued Sandberg. "Instead of stressing out over these risks, you can travel with peace of mind by purchasing a quality travel protection plan that will ease the financial burden of the most common travel setbacks."

Get a head start. Ensuring that your plans are set and in place can be a major stress reliever. Pack a few days early to avoid the chaos of packing the night before your departure. Make arrangements with a sitter for your pets or enlist a friend or neighbor to watch your house. If you can, secure seating arrangements on your flights ahead of time to make sure your traveling party gets seated together. Make sure your mobile phones are fully charged, and download your airline's app so you'll get alerts if your flight is delayed or your gate changes.

Have gifts shipped to your destination. Checking items on a flight can be difficult, and there are limits to how many items can be checked with one passenger. Bringing gifts along for the trip only adds more luggage and stress. Chances are also good that the price of shipping the gifts to the destination is much cheaper than having the gifts checked on the plane. Just don't forget to purchase gift bags or wrapping paper as well to have when you arrive at your destination.

Leave early. Give yourself extra time to get to the airport, especially if you are planning to check baggage or if you are traveling with a large group. Busy travel days can mean traffic jams, long security lines and short staffing at the airport. Missing your flights may result in having to pay hefty change fees or having to purchase new tickets altogether.

Travel insurance comparison sites, like TravelInsurance.com, offer consumers a way to search, compare and purchase from among the most recognizable insurance provider names in the industry and afford a consumer a better chance of finding the right travel insurance plan at the right price. Consumers can buy directly and securely through the website and receive a policy via email within minutes.

For more information and travel tips, visit https://www.travelinsurance.com/.

About TravelInsurance.com:

TravelInsurance.com helps simplify the complicated world of travel insurance by providing consumers with the easiest way to compare and buy trip insurance coverage online. A member company of the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, TravelInsurance.com is owned and operated by DigiVentures Holdings LLC, a licensed agency that works with some of the largest travel insurers in the industry. Purchases can be made directly through the website, with policies sent via email within minutes.

This year, more Americans are expected to travel between Dec. 21 and Jan. 1 than ever before, according to the American Automobile Association, making travel mishaps even more likely this holiday season. Whether traveling to be with loved ones or for that end-of-year dream escape, there is a high potential for stress. TravelInsurance.com, a leading travel insurance comparison website, offers tips to get you through the holiday travel season smoothly.

Related link: https://www.travelinsurance.com/

Lisa Huscher joins EPIC as a Sales Executive, as Part of its LEAP Program

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Lisa Huscher has joined the firm as a sales executive through their LEAP sales development program.

Huscher will be based in Southern California and report to Bill Ferree, Principal and Pleasant Hill Team Lead. In her new position, Huscher is responsible for risk management consulting and the design, placement and management of property and casualty insurance programs. She will primarily focus on the healthcare industry as part of Edgewood Healthcare Advisors, a division of EPIC.

Huscher brings over 20 years of experience in risk management and business consulting. She is very adept at bringing unique solutions to her clients across a number of industries. Prior to joining EPIC, Huscher held the position of Business Development Manager with OpenPlacement. She has also held positions with Care Partners at Home, My Virtual HomeCare & myvirtualcarevisit.com and Seniors Helping Seniors. Huscher earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from Point Loma Nazarene University.

"We are excited to have Lisa join our team and bring her healthcare expertise to the Edgewood Healthcare Advisors practice," said William Ferree, Principal, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, Pleasant Hill, California.

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our Healthcare team to bring an even greater level of expertise to our clients," added Curt Perata, Regional President, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants.

Lisa Huscher can be reached at lisa.huscher@epicbrokers.com or (714) 369-2133.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Lisa Huscher has joined the firm as a sales executive through their LEAP sales development program.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Adds Matthew Presutti as Managing Principal in their New York operations

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Matthew Presutti has joined their EPIC New York operations as managing principal on the employee benefits team.

Presutti will be based in New York City as part of Frenkel Benefits, an EPIC Company and report to Adam Okun, co-president and Larry Kirshner, co-president EPIC New York. In his new position, he will responsible for the strategic oversight, new business development and the design, placement and management of employee benefits insurance programs and solutions.

Presutti brings nearly 30 years of experience to his role within the overall EPIC organization. He has a strong background in leading teams and developing creative employee benefits programs for clients to help increase the overall success of their business. Presutti joins the firm from HM Insurance Group.

He has also held positions with: MagnaCare, Brown & Brown Metro, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and Prudential. Presutti has served as Board President with the Tewksbury Township Board of Education as well.

"We are excited to have Matthew join our team and bring his level of expertise to EPIC and our employee benefits clients," said Adam Okun, co-president, EPIC New York, Larry Kirshner, co-president, EPIC New York, "Matt brings industry knowledge and employee benefits experience that will add to our already robust team. We are thrilled to have him onboard."

Matthew Presutti can be reached at matthew.presutti@frenkel.com or (212) 488-0214.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Matthew Presutti has joined their EPIC New York operations as managing principal on the employee benefits team.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Cosmetic Insurance Services (CIS) Now Offering Insurance to Cosmetic and Personal Care Products Containing CBDs

JERSEY CITY, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- Cosmetic Insurance Services (CIS), a national multi-line Specialty Program Administrator and the nation's leading insurance provider to the Cosmetics and Personal Care industry, announced their ability to now offer insurance to those companies whose cosmetic and beauty products include CBDs (Cannabidiol) within their formulations.

"We are excited about this enhancement to our current underwriting guidelines. With the ability to provide insurance on this specific product class, we continue to offer cutting-edge insurance products and solutions tailored to fit the many diverse exposures that the ever-growing cosmetic industry is faced with," said Kenneth C. Hegel Jr; Managing Principal of Cosmetic Insurance Services - a division of EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants.

"This new enhancement to our current underwriting guidelines demonstrates our commitment - to not only the cosmetics industry as a whole - but reinforces our dedication to the many clients we serve nationwide. We believe the capability to successfully underwrite this exposure and provide insurance on these specific products will allow us to continue to provide a superior insurance product to both our direct customers as well as our valued retail broker partners."

This development elevates the exclusive MGA Program and creates a path of continued and responsible premium growth alongside the valued insurance carriers that CIS partners with, securing CIS as the largest MGA of its kind.

About CIS:

Cosmetic Insurance Services is a Managing General Agent/retail insurance broker specializing in insuring the cosmetic, beauty and personal care industries. CIS works with companies that range from smaller start-ups to some of the largest, most established independent beauty brands. CIS is a division of EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants.

For more information about CIS, a division of EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, visit: https://epicbrokers.com/programs/cosmetics/

Cosmetic Insurance Services (CIS), a national multi-line Specialty Program Administrator and the nation's leading insurance provider to the Cosmetics and Personal Care industry, announced their ability to now offer insurance to those companies whose cosmetic and beauty products include CBDs (Cannabidiol) within their formulations

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

After, Inc. launches QuickReg 2.0 with additional benefits for Manufacturers and their Customers

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- After, Inc., the global leader in Warranty Marketing and Analytics Solutions since 2005, just announced the launch of QuickReg(TM) 2.0, the next iteration of its smart registration solution. QuickReg(TM), launched in March 2019, helps manufacturers drive higher registration rates by making product registration quick, easy and convenient for consumers through their preferred channel of choice.

"Our research has shown that there are four reasons for low product registration rates," says Nate Baldwin, CEO of After, Inc. "First, current registration processes are not convenient for consumers. Consumers won't do it if it's manual, time-consuming and requires multiple steps. Second, registration must happen right away, when consumers first get their products, or it won't happen at all. Third, with CCPA and the additional consumer data protection legislation happening across the country, registration solutions must give consumers control over their data and how it is used. And finally, although consumers are more willing than ever to share their data, they must feel they are getting value in return. QuickReg incorporates all of these requirements."

QuickReg(TM) initially offered two ways for customers to register their products. They could send the model number via text to a specified phone number, or take a picture of the model number and send it via text or email. This would launch an automated process where QuickReg(TM) would engage the customer in a two-way discussion, verify their personal information, and complete the registration process in a few simple steps.

QuickReg(TM) 2.0 gives consumers an additional option. They can scan a QR code or RFID tag on the manufacturer's product box, with the model number embedded.

"A majority of manufacturers are moving towards using QR codes and RFID tags for product identification, so we have enhanced QuickReg to accept it," says Baldwin. "We are excited about QuickReg's added functionality and the convenience it provides to manufacturers and their customers."

To learn more about QuickReg(TM) and demo the solution for your organization, you can visit: http://afterinc.com/home/quickreg-smart-product-registration/.

About After, Inc.

After, Inc. (www.afterinc.com) is a global leader in the Warranty Services industry. Its predictive analytics, data-driven marketing strategies, reporting and program administration are second to none. After, Inc. has partnered with some of the world's top brands to help transform their warranty businesses, driving customer satisfaction post-purchase, higher product reliability, deeper brand equity and additional revenue / profit opportunities. Headquartered in Norwalk, Conn. and with offices in New York City, After, Inc. is part of EPIC Insurance Group, a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm with 1,300 employees across the United States.

After, Inc., the global leader in Warranty Marketing and Analytics Solutions since 2005, just announced the launch of QuickReg(TM) 2.0, the next iteration of its smart registration solution. QuickReg, launched in March 2019, helps manufacturers drive higher registration rates by making product registration quick, easy and convenient for consumers through their preferred channel of choice

Related link: http://afterinc.com/

By Prioritizing Customer Experience, Leading Travel Insurance Comparison Site TravelInsurance.com Reaches 50,000 5-Star Reviews on Shopper Approved

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- TravelInsurance.com today announced they have surpassed 50,000 5-star reviews through the Shopper Approved platform, one of the fastest-growing customer review companies in the United States. Verified customers on TravelInsurance.com have rated the travel insurance comparison site a 4.8 out of 5.0, with 97% noting they would recommend it to others.

"TravelInsurance.com puts the customer experience above all else, and it's incredible to see these efforts pay off," said Stan Sandberg, co-founder of TravelInsurance.com. "Our mission from the start has been to simplify the travel insurance shopping experience and provide the highest quality service to our loyal customers. Our current star rating is a nice reminder that we're achieving that goal."

The reviews for TravelInsurance.com come directly from active paying customers with recent verified purchases. This process gives every customer an equal opportunity to leave a review based on their own personal experience. Since only active paying customers can leave a review, new visitors can trust the results and have confidence in the authenticity of the review.

While today's online consumer uses comparison shopping sites for almost every e-commerce purchase, shoppers using online travel sites aren't given the same opportunity when it comes to travel insurance. The largest online travel sites and airline sites typically only give consumers a "take-it-or-leave-it" "yes" or "no" checkbox from a single travel insurance provider. While it may seem like a simplification of the process, it can limit a consumer's options.

Travel insurance comparison sites, like TravelInsurance.com, offer consumers a way to search, compare and purchase from among the most recognizable insurance provider names in the industry and afford a consumer a better chance of finding the right travel insurance plan at the right price. Consumers can buy directly and securely through the website and receive a policy via email within minutes.

Today's announcement furthers the argument that when travelers can shop around, their experience is positive in ensuring not only the process is smooth, but also that they get the best plan for their specific needs.

To view TravelInsurance.com's reviews on Shopper Approved, please visit https://www.shopperapproved.com/reviews/travelinsurance.com.

For more information and travel tips, visit https://www.travelinsurance.com/.

About TravelInsurance.com:
TravelInsurance.com helps simplify the complicated world of travel insurance by providing consumers with the easiest way to compare and buy trip insurance coverage online. A member company of the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, TravelInsurance.com is owned and operated by DigiVentures Holdings, LLC, a licensed agency that works with some of the largest travel insurers in the industry. Purchases can be made directly through the website, with policies sent via email within minutes.

TravelInsurance.com today announced they have surpassed 50,000 5-star reviews through the Shopper Approved platform, one of the fastest-growing customer review companies in the United States. Verified customers on TravelInsurance.com have rated the travel insurance comparison site a 4.8 out of 5.0, with 97% noting they would recommend it to others.

Related link: https://www.travelinsurance.com/

EPIC Adds Aaron Zetterower in Dallas, Texas

DALLAS, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Aaron Zetterower has joined the firm as Principal of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

Zetterower will be based in Dallas, Texas and report to KJ Wagner, President of EPIC's Southwest Region. In his new position, Zetterower is responsible for new business development and the design, placement and management of property and casualty insurance programs, providing risk management strategies and solutions for mid-market and large clients.

Zetterower joins EPIC from AssuredPartners, where he served as Vice President. Prior to that, he was the National Director for Charter School Programs at Crystal & Company.

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our Property & Casualty operation in the Southwest Region," said EPIC's KJ Wagner. "Aaron's extensive background supporting Charter Schools brings a wealth of knowledge and rich industry experience to the team. I could not be more excited to have Aaron join us," said Joffrey Clark, EPIC's Charter School Practice Leader.

Aaron Zetterower can be reached at aaron.zetterower@epicbrokers.com or 214-923-7867.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants
EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Aaron Zetterower has joined the firm as Principal of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Aaron Schwen joins EPIC in Dallas

DALLAS, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Aaron Schwen has joined the firm as Client Advocate of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

Schwen will be based in Dallas, Texas and report to KJ Wagner, President of EPIC's Southwest Region. In his new position, Schwen is responsible for new business development and the design, placement and management of property and casualty insurance programs, providing risk management strategies and solutions for mid-market and large clients.

Schwen joins EPIC from AssuredPartners, where he served as the Charter School Practice Leader. Prior to that, he was a Director at Crystal & Company.

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our Property & Casualty operation in the Southwest Region," said EPIC's KJ Wagner. "Aaron's extensive background supporting Charter Schools brings a wealth of knowledge and rich industry experience to the team. I could not be more excited to have Aaron join us," said Joffrey Clark, EPIC's National Charter School Practice Leader.

Aaron Schwen can be reached at aaron.schwen@epicbrokers.com or 817-727-2490.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Aaron Schwen has joined the firm as Client Advocate of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Commercial Insurtech Juniper Labs Announces Open Data Launch at Plug and Play Winter Summit

SUNNYVALE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Automated underwriting insurtech Juniper Labs today announced that it is launching the first ever open-sourced data set purpose built for commercial insurance. Juniper Labs plans to release over 40 million business records it acquired to train its underwriting models for anyone to use.

"We are open-sourcing our data because we believe data is not a product. Data is a platform. We are setting out to dramatically change the way the industry views data - we believe the future of insurance is open," said Lance Poole, Juniper Labs CEO. "The thing that excites us about the philosophy of open-source, is that it allows for solutions to emerge that we couldn't have never created on our own."

Juniper Labs will give the carrier partners of Plug and Play the first opportunity to use the open dataset. "As we've had the privilege of being a part of Plug and Play, we've been in a position to see how forward-thinking the partners of Plug and Play are. Because of that, we want to invite the Plug and Play partners to be the anchor members of this open data community" said John Stevenson, Juniper Labs CTO.

By moving to an open source platform, Juniper Labs follows in the footsteps of other tech companies like Databricks, GitLab, MongoDB and Docker. Mr. Poole went further to state, "We believe that data in insurance has to be open. We want to establish a data protocol and if everyone is building their own walled gardens, that will never happen. We take a lot of inspiration from the world wide web. Tim Berners-Lee knew that the web would have never gotten critical mass if it wouldn't have been open. We can't own the data. We can only work with the community to be stewards of the data."

Carriers and executives interested in Juniper Lab's open data project are invited to sign up at openjuniper.com

About Juniper Labs:
Founded in 2019, Juniper Labs builds automated underwriting solutions for commercial insurance carriers. They have a suite of APIs that automate the application process and the challenge of properly classifying businesses. They are stewards of OpenJuniper, the first ever open dataset purpose built for commercial insurance.

Connect with Juniper Labs:
- https://www.juniperlabs.io
- https://twitter.com/labsjuniper

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1209s2p-lance-poole-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: Lance Poole, CEO of Juniper Labs.

Automated underwriting insurtech Juniper Labs today announced that it is launching the first ever open-sourced data set purpose built for commercial insurance. Juniper Labs plans to release over 40 million business records it acquired to train its underwriting models for anyone to use.

Related link: https://www.juniperlabs.io

Raylene Chiarizzio joins EPIC in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Raylene Chiarizzio has joined the firm as Senior Vice President of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

Chiarizzio will be based in Los Angeles, California and report to KJ Wagner, President of EPIC's Southwest Region. In her new position, Chiarizzio is responsible for complex program design, placement and management of property and casualty insurance programs, providing risk management strategies and solutions for mid-market and large clients. Chiarizzio joins EPIC from Willis Towers Watson.

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our Risk Management operations in the Southwest Region," said EPIC's KJ Wagner. "Raylene's extensive risk management experience brings a wealth of knowledge and rich industry experience to the team. I could not be more excited to have Raylene join us."

Raylene Chiarizzio can be reached at Raylene.chiarizzio@epicbrokers.com or 213-628-5525.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants
EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants ("EPIC"), a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Raylene Chiarizzio has joined the firm as Senior Vice President of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

BobbiJo DeNofa joins EPIC in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that BobbiJo DeNofa has joined the firm as Managing Principal of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

DeNofa will be based in Los Angeles, California and report to KJ Wagner, President of EPIC's Southwest Region. In her new position, DeNofa is responsible for growing our Risk Management Practice in the Southwest, leading new business development and the design, placement and management of property and casualty insurance programs, providing risk management strategies and solutions for mid-market and large clients.

DeNofa joins EPIC from Willis Towers Watson, where she spent the last 15 years of her career. At Willis, she was serving as the head of its Southern California offices leading property and casualty operations for its Southwest Region, which included Phoenix, Los Angeles, Irvine, and San Diego markets.

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our Risk Management operations in the Southwest Region," said EPIC's KJ Wagner. "BobbiJo is a well-respected, highly strategic, and consultative risk management professional and a proven leader who will deliver great value to our clients and to other EPIC team members. I could not be more excited to have BobbiJo join our team."

"EPIC's operations in the Southwest continue to grow by welcoming power houses like BobbiJo," said Jim Gillette, Regional President, Pacific South. "This is exciting for all of us, and I look forward to officially welcoming her expertise and watching our clients benefit from our ongoing growth and collaboration across the organization."

BobbiJo DeNofa can be reached at bobbijo.denofa@epicbrokers.com or 213-705-9654.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants
EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that BobbiJo DeNofa has joined the firm as Managing Principal of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

David Thoke joins EPIC in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that David Thoke has joined the firm as Managing Principal of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

Thoke will be based in Los Angeles, California and report to KJ Wagner, President of EPIC's Southwest Region. In his new position, Thoke is responsible for new business development and the design, placement and management of property and casualty insurance programs, providing risk management strategies and solutions for mid-market and large clients.

Thoke joins EPIC from Willis Towers Watson, where he spent the last 15 years of his career. At Willis, he was serving as Executive Vice President of Willis North America, and prior to that, he spent 25 years with Marsh.

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our Risk Management operations in the Southwest Region," said EPIC's KJ Wagner. "David's extensive background brings a wealth of knowledge and rich industry experience to the team. I could not be more excited to have David join us."

"EPIC's operations in the Southwest continue to grow by welcoming power houses like David," said Jim Gillette, Regional President, Pacific South. "This is exciting for all of us, and I look forward to officially welcoming his expertise and watching our clients benefit from our ongoing growth and collaboration across the organization."

David Thoke can be reached at david.thoke@epicbrokers.com or 626-297-5551.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that David Thoke has joined the firm as Managing Principal of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Florida Blue and Papa Partner to Address Social Isolation, Improve Health Outcomes

MIAMI, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Florida Blue, the leading health insurer in Florida, announced today that it is partnering with Papa, a nationwide provider of senior services, to offer Florida Blue members in select Medicare Advantage plans assistance with transportation, house chores, companionship and other senior support services.

Social isolation is a significant issue for aging adults and can have a major impact on overall health. Papa, which connects college students to seniors, removes some of the burden and stress on family caregivers and provides a level of assistance and companionship for older adults. The program bridges the gap between two generations and offers seniors a unique at-home experience that can enrich their lives and help combat feelings of loneliness.

"Driven by our mission to help people and communities achieve better health, we take a holistic approach to health by offering solutions to fit our members' needs and address social determinants of health like social isolation," said Kathy Feeny, president of Florida Blue Medicare. "There is no one-size-fits-all solution for seniors, which is why we 're working with companies like Papa that specialize in senior services and understand how to meet the unique needs of aging adults."

Starting Jan. 1, 2020, Florida Blue members in select Medicare Advantage plans, who have certain chronic conditions, can qualify for up to 120 hours of assistance a year (30 hours per quarter) by completing an annual wellness visit and a health risk assessment.

Once a member qualifies, Papa will provide a consultation to learn about the individual's needs and discuss ways in which a Papa Pal can help. Papa carefully selects their "grandkids on demand" or college students, many of whom have a specific health-related focus of study. The senior, or their family member, can request a Papa Pal on demand through a phone call, a mobile app or an online platform.

According to the 2017 National Population Projections by the U.S. Census Bureau1 there will be 78 million people 65 and older by year 2035 compared to 76.7 million under the age of 18. As the senior population continues to grow, the need for reliable companionship and transportation will, too.

"Expanding our reach and partnership with Florida Blue will give more support to members who need extra assistance," said Papa Founder and CEO Andrew Parker. "Papa is a company that genuinely cares about all seniors and we believe everyone should be able to experience what a difference a Papa Pal brings to the home. We are much more than a service; we become family. That is what support looks like and what aging adults need when someone comes into their homes. We are happy to provide that service."

About Florida Blue
Florida Blue, Florida's Blue Cross and Blue Shield company, has been providing health insurance to residents of Florida for nearly 75 years. Driven by its mission of helping people and communities achieve better health, the company serves more than 5 million health care members across the state. In total, Florida Blue and its affiliated companies serve 16 million people in 29 states. Headquartered in Jacksonville, Fla., it is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

About Papa
Papa is a Miami startup that has Grandkids On-Demand who provide assistance and companionship to senior citizens throughout Florida, California, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Texas, Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, South Carolina, Illinois, and Kansas. Papa launched their service in January of 2018. For more information, visit https://www.joinpapa.com/

Florida Blue, the leading health insurer in Florida, announced today that it is partnering with Papa, a nationwide provider of senior services, to offer Florida Blue members in select Medicare Advantage plans assistance with transportation, house chores, companionship and other senior support services.

Related link: https://www.joinpapa.com/

EPIC Adds Todd Randolph in Atlanta, GA

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Todd Randolph has joined the firm as a Principal of its Southeast Employee Benefits Practice.

Randolph will be based in Atlanta and report to Ed Oravetz, Managing Principal. In his new position, Randolph is responsible for new business development and the design, placement, and management of employee benefit programs, providing critical attraction and retention strategies for mid-market and large clients.

Randolph joins EPIC from USI Insurance Services, where he spent the last eight years of his career. As a VP and Employee Benefits Consultant at USI, he was known for implementing value-based benefit programs and specializing in advanced design and funding approaches for group medical (all ancillary lines) - including the appropriate uses of captives, self-funding, HRA/HSAs, private exchanges, and traditional, fully-insured programs.

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our Employee Benefit operations," said EPIC's Ed Oravetz. "Todd is a well-respected, highly strategic, and consultative employee benefits professional who will deliver great value to our clients and to other EPIC team members. I could not be more excited to have Todd join our team."

"EPIC's operations in the Southeast continue to grow by welcoming power houses like Todd," said Steve Needle, Managing Principal of EPIC's Southeast Region. "This is exciting for all of us, and I look forward to officially welcoming his expertise and watching our clients benefit from our ongoing growth and collaboration."

Todd Randolph can be reached at todd.randolph@epicbrokers.com or 713-705-1485.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

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EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Todd Randolph has joined the firm as a Principal of its Southeast Employee Benefits Practice.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/