Category Archives: Insurance

EPIC’s Mark Millard and Michael Turk to present at 2017 Risk and Insurance Management Society (RIMS) Annual Conference

STAMFORD, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Principals Mark Millard and Michael Turk are among the featured risk management and insurance professionals who will be presenting at the RIMS Annual Conference & Exhibition being held in Philadelphia, Pa. on April 23-26.

As the preeminent organization dedicated to advancing the practice of risk management, RIMS is a global not-for-profit organization representing more than 3,500 industrial, service, nonprofit, charitable and government entities throughout the world. Founded in 1950, RIMS brings networking, professional development and education opportunities to its membership of more than 11,000 risk management professionals who are located in more than 60 countries.

Millard will share his knowledge in two sessions:

Communication: Taking Your Insurance Risk Department to the C-Suite and Beyond (Session: CAD7/388) - April 25, 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Speakers: Mark Millard, Principal, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants and Mike Tannenbaum, Founder & Managing Partner of Key Strategies, LLC.

Moving Towards Centralization: Taking Control of Your Global Insurance Risk Program (Session: ICM7/391) - April 25, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Speakers: Mark Millard, Principal, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants and Andreea Brezeanu, Manager, Ernst & Young

Turk shares his expertise in:

Choosing the Right Deductible and Retention Levels (Session: RIF4/405)
April 24, 3 - 4 p.m.

Speakers: Michael Turk, Principal, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants and Chris Krepcho, Associate Director, Insurance Services, Florida League of Cities

A complete list of 2017 RIMS Conference sessions/events by day can be found here: https://www.rims.org/RIMS2017/Attendee/Pages/Sessions-Events-By-Day.aspx

About Mark Millard, principal, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants:

Mark is a Principal in EPIC's complex risk group. Mark has near 20 years' experience in assisting clients with insurance risk management needs. He specializes in the design, management, and assessment of insurance risk management programs; including risk identification and analysis, risk transfer with the use of insurance products and alternative risk financing vehicles, insurance vendor management, and claims process and procedures.

Prior to joining EPIC, Mark was with Ernst & Young (EY) for 8 1/2 years where he was a senior manager in their Insurance Risk and Claims Practice based in New York. At EY, Mark led a team of risk professionals on countless Fortune 1000 and public entity insurance risk program assessments as well as numerous specialty projects for clients that included the development of an insurance purchasing framework; authoring a manual to negotiate insurance provisions in contracts; and M&A due diligence. In addition, Mark developed and led EY's initiative in cyber insurance risk advisory services.

Mark is a frequent speaker at industry seminars on topics that include cyber insurance, directors & officers exposure, merger & acquisition due diligence, process and controls development, internal audit assessment, transferring risk to the vendor, and insurance brokerage management.

About Michael Turk, principal, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants:

Michael has over 30 years of diverse experience in the insurance and financial services industry, including roles in consulting, brokerage, underwriting, product development and insurance company management. For EPIC Michael manages complex property/casualty risk management and insurance programs for large clients. These services include risk assessments, risk management/insurance program reviews and structure design, insurance placement and strategic risk financing solutions including risk alternatives, such as captives and cat bonds.

Prior to joining EPIC, Michael was with JLT and Towers Watson where he provided consulting and brokerage services to both insurance companies and corporations in the areas of risk management, (re)insurance program design, Directors & Officers liability, alternative risk financing and enterprise risk management. Michael also held various positions with Centre Re, including Chief Operating Officer, where he was responsible for information technology, operational risk management, human resources and deal management and restructuring. Previously, Michael held the position of Director of Risk Management Services at GE Capital.

Michael has spoken at many conferences and seminars, is a contributing author of the first edition of the Essentials of Risk Financing and several other risk management publications, and previously was responsible for the Towers Watson annual survey of Directors & Officers liability insurance purchasing and claims trends.

Michael earned a B.B.A. in Risk and Insurance/Finance and an M.B.A. in Risk Management from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He is a Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) and an Associate in Risk Management (ARM).

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 1,100 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 20,000 clients.

With roughly $280 million in run rate revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Backed by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

More information: http://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Principals Mark Millard and Michael Turk are among the featured risk management and insurance professionals who will be presenting at the RIMS Annual Conference & Exhibition being held in Philadelphia, Pa. on April 23-26.

EPIC Insurance’s Suzannah Gill and Carl Pilger to Present at SOAHR SHRM-Atlanta HR 2017 Conference

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Benefits Strategy Consultant Suzannah Gill and Director of Employee Benefits Compliance Carl Pilger will present at SOAHR, SHRM-Atlanta's 27th Annual HR Conference, on Wednesday, March 29 at 2:40 p.m. at the Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta, Ga.

This event provides Atlanta HR professionals the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge educational content and create meaningful relationships with peers. In addition to two keynote presentations, the conference will feature dozens of education sessions touching on all of the major HR and talent management competencies.

Gill and Pilger will share their employee benefits consulting expertise in their presentation "Protecting Your Business in 2017 & Beyond: Employee Benefits Compliance."

Click here to view the full agenda: http://www.shrmatlanta.org/mpage/2017Conference.

About Suzannah Gill, benefits strategy consultant, EPIC:

Part of EPIC's employee benefits consulting team in Atlanta, benefits strategy consultant Suzannah Gill brings a broad spectrum of experience to EPIC. She was previously a senior associate and benefits consultant for a large Atlanta benefits consulting firm with a focus on strategic management and business development. Prior to that, Gill provided strategic benefits expertise to her clients as an ERISA attorney at a prominent Atlanta law firm, representing clients in both Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation matters.

Gill is a responsive and results-oriented benefits consultant, helping her clients understand and navigate the complexities of employee benefits, so they can focus on managing and growing their businesses. Additionally, her skill set further expands EPIC's legal expertise in employee benefits.

Gill earned a Bachelor of Science in Management with Marketing Certification, highest honor, from Georgia Tech and a Juris Doctor, cum laude, from the University of Georgia School of Law.

About Carl Pilger, director of employee benefits compliance, EPIC:

Carl Pilger has advised and represented businesses as an ERISA attorney for more than 20 years. Across his career he has focused exclusively on ERISA compliance, including representing his clients in DOL and IRS audits. As EPIC's Director of Employee Benefits Compliance Pilger continues to consult with and advise clients on ERISA and ACA compliance. Pilger is based in Duluth, Georgia and will report to John Gaffney, EPIC's Director, National Benefits Operations.

Prior to joining EPIC, Pilger served as Vice President, Legal Counsel with Digital Insurance where he spearheaded ERISA and ACA compliance initiatives. Previously, he held positions with three prominent Atlanta law firms including; Taylor English Duma, LLP, Miller & Martin, PLLC, and Fisher & Phillips, LLP.

Pilger is a well-known subject matter expert on the Affordable Care Act and he has traveled the country speaking to numerous industry groups regarding the law's complexities.

Pilger earned a Bachelor's degree in Journalism from Northwestern University, Medill School of Journalism and a Juris Doctorate degree from Northwestern University School of Law. He is a member of the Georgia Bar Association.

About SOAHR 2017:

SOAHR 2017 is SHRM-Atlanta's 27th Annual HR Conference that includes two days of education seminars.

Presentations will focus on increasing HR effectiveness, building leadership and business acumen, and providing solutions to challenges that fellow HR professionals have faced. SHRM-Atlanta's session offerings also mirror important competencies as defined by the SHRM Body of Competency & Knowledge (BoCK), with educational topics covering Business Acumen & Strategy, Employment Law & Legislation, Talent Acquisition & Retention, and Total Rewards.

There are over two dozen total sessions - all created and delivered by HR experts, two thought-provoking keynote sessions to infer new lessons, and the opportunity to earn up to 9 HRCI CEUs/SHRM PDCs.

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 1,100 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 20,000 clients.

With roughly $280 million in run rate revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Backed by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

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

*PHOTOS for Media:
(1) Send2press.com/mediaboom/16-0119-Carl-Pilger-300dpi.jpg
(2) Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-0323s2p-sue-gill-300dpi.jpg

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Dave Hock, of EPIC
650-295-4608
dave.hock@epicbrokers.com

Nicole Conley
408-295-4309 x104
nicole.conley@taniscomm.com

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Benefits Strategy Consultant Suzannah Gill and Director of Employee Benefits Compliance Carl Pilger will present at SOAHR, SHRM-Atlanta's 27th Annual HR Conference, on Wednesday, March 29 at 2:40 p.m. at the Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta, Ga.

Qualia Now Integrated with FNTG’s AgentTRAX System for Title Services

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Qualia, the fastest growing provider of title settlement software, announced it has integrated the agentTRAX portal from Fidelity National Title Group (FNTG) into its settlement platform. Through this integration, Chicago Title, Commonwealth Land Title and Fidelity National Title agents can issue Closing Protection Letters (CPLs) and generate policy jackets directly through the Qualia system. In addition, the integration allows agents to auto report gross premiums to FNTG's accounting department, leading to fewer errors while increasing efficiency.

"Switching between multiple systems to conduct title work is not just inefficient; it's unnecessary. That's why Qualia has made the commitment to integrating with title providers like the Fidelity National Title Group," said Nate Baker, CEO of Qualia. "The integration with agentTRAX enables Qualia title agents to conduct all of their title work without ever leaving the system, saving them both time and money."

"At Fidelity, we take pride in providing our customers with the best possible service, support and resources," said Linda Grahovec at FNTG Agency Operations. "Integrating agentTRAX with Qualia allows us to deliver a more streamlined process for our title agents where agents can access FNTG's industry-leading title services without ever leaving their system of record."

About Fidelity National Title Group:

Fidelity National Financial, Inc. (NYSE:FNF). FNF is a leading provider of title insurance, technology and transaction services to the real estate and mortgage industries. FNF is the nation's largest title insurance company through its title insurance underwriters - Fidelity National Title, Chicago Title, Commonwealth Land Title, Alamo Title and National Title of New York - that collectively issue more title insurance policies than any other title company in the United States.

FNF also provides industry-leading mortgage technology solutions and transaction services, including MSP(r), the leading residential mortgage servicing technology platform in the U.S., through its majority-owned subsidiaries, Black Knight Financial Services, LLC and ServiceLink Holdings, LLC.

More information about FNF can be found at http://www.fnf.com/ and additional FNTG Agency support and resources are located at https://www.nationalagency.fntg.com/.

About Qualia:

For title settlement professionals, Qualia provides an all-in-one solution for more efficient and seamless closings. The fastest growing software on the market, Qualia's automated task management, real-time reporting, and best-in-class integrations save title companies thousands of dollars in labor and software costs every year. Qualia's incredible ease-of-use and industry-leading support allows new users to learn Qualia in virtually no time. To learn more about how Qualia can save users time and money, sign up at https://www.qualia.com/demo or call 855-441-5498.

Qualia, the fastest growing provider of title settlement software, announced it has integrated the agentTRAX portal from Fidelity National Title Group (FNTG) into its settlement platform. Through this integration, Chicago Title, Commonwealth Land Title and Fidelity National Title agents can issue Closing Protection Letters (CPLs) and generate policy jackets directly through the Qualia system.

EPIC’s Chuck Simpson to Speak at Distribution Contractors Association’s Annual Safety Congress

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Senior Risk Control Consultant Chuck Simpson will speak at Distribution Contractors Association's (DCA) Annual Safety Congress on Wednesday, March 29 at 8:30 a.m. at Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans, La.

The 22nd Annual Safety Congress is an annual gathering of safety directors representing distribution construction companies. It serves as an opportunity for attendees to improve their management skills and to network with other safety professionals from across the country. The two-day conference features speakers, trainers and discussion groups focusing on important safety solutions.

Simpson will share his knowledge on "How to Improve HSE Inspections & Hazard Recognition" and attendees will have the opportunity to further discuss the topic in interactive round table discussions.

Click here to view the full agenda: http://www.dcaweb.org/Events/SAFETYCONGRESS/Registerforthe2017SafetyCongress.aspx.

About Chuck Simpson, Senior Risk Control Consultant:

Simpson is a health and safety professional with more than 30 years of experience helping companies develop and implement risk management systems in a variety of industries.

Prior to joining EPIC, Simpson served as president of Work Safe International, LLC where he worked on both on- and off-shore projects in the United States, Mexico, Canada, South America, Africa, Asia and the Middle East.

Simpson has experience in the sulfur operations, pipeline, fabrication, oil and gas drilling, vessel operations and food processing industries. He is a certified safety professional (CSP) and a widely recognized expert on Contractor Safety Management, OSHA Recordkeeping and Hydrogen Sulfide Safety. He has presented lectures at the ASSE Safety Professional Development Conference and Exposition, OSHA Oil and Gas Safety Conference, the International Conference on Offshore Safety, the Gulf Coast Safety and Training Group, and the Sulphur Institute's Sulphur World Symposium in the United Arab Emirates.

Simpson is an active participant in the American Society of Safety Engineers, Gulf Coast Safety Training Group and serves as Chairman for the ANSI Z390 Hydrogen Sulfide Training Committee. He earned his bachelor's degree in international studies from the University of South Alabama.

About Distribution Contractors Association's Annual Safety Congress:

The DCA Safety Congress is an annual gathering of safety directors representing distribution construction companies. It serves as an opportunity for attendees to improve their management skills and to network with other safety professionals from across the country. The two-day conference features speakers, trainers and discussion groups focusing on important safety solutions.

About EPIC:

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 1,100 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With roughly $280 million in run rate revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Backed by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit http://www.epicbrokers.com/.

* PHOTO: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/15-1027-Chuck-Simpson-300dpi.jpg
* LOGO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/16-0308-epic-insurance-300dpi.jpg

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Dave Hock, of EPIC
650-295-4608
dave.hock@epicbrokers.com

Nicole Conley
408-295-4309 x104
nicole.conley@taniscomm.com

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Senior Risk Control Consultant Chuck Simpson will speak at Distribution Contractors Association's (DCA) Annual Safety Congress on Wednesday, March 29 at 8:30 a.m. at Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans, La.

It’s Tax Time, and Millions Could Miss Sizeable Deductions for Long-Term Care Insurance, ACSIA Partners Says

KIRKLAND, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- If you're considering long-term care insurance, or already have a policy, "Tax time is a good time to look for help from Uncle Sam," says Denise Gott, CEO of ACSIA Partners, one of the nation's largest long-term care insurance agencies. "And the help you get could be more than negligible."

Possible deductions range from hundreds to thousands of dollars per year, Gott points out. "Millions may qualify, but will lose out if they fail to apply."

For the taxable year beginning in 2016, the limitations under Section 213(d)(10) of the IRS tax code, regarding eligible long-term care premiums includible in the term "medical care," are as follows:

Attained Age Before Close of 2016 Taxable Year / Limitation on Premiums:
* 40 or less: $390
* More than 40 but not more than 50: $730
* More than 50 but not more than 60 $1,460
* More than 60 but not more than 70: $3,900
* More than 70: $4,870

"If you're covered now," says Gott, "you should be sure to claim what's coming to you. And if you're considering a policy, why not get it while tax savings are on your mind?"

For 2017 the limitations are about 5% higher than in 2016:

Attained Age Before Close of 2017 Taxable Year / Limitation on Premiums:
* 40 or less: $410
* More than 40 but not more than 50: $770
* More than 50 but not more than 60 $1,530
* More than 60 but not more than 70: $4,090
* More than 70: $5,110

"The limits have been increasing every year," says Gott. "What's more, they apply to every covered individual in a household. For example, a qualifying husband and wife filing jointly could deduct up to $7,800 for 2016, and up to $10,220 for 2017; and so on for as long as the legislation remains in force."

The original idea was to encourage Americans to protect themselves, according to Gott, "and we believe the Trump administration will support this philosophy going forward."

ACSIA Partners has hundreds of long-term care specialists in all parts of the country. "During tax season," says Gott, "they're glad to talk with consumers and financial advisors about policy costs and tax adjustments. They do not give tax advice, but can help explain the tax incentives. For tax advice, people need to consult their tax professional."

ACSIA Partners LLC -- http://www.acsiapartners.com -- is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance agencies serving all states. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

If you're considering long-term care insurance, or already have a policy, "Tax time is a good time to look for help from Uncle Sam," says Denise Gott, CEO of ACSIA Partners, one of the nation's largest long-term care insurance agencies. "And the help you get could be more than negligible."

Traffk Acquires Capsci Health’s Mobile Technology

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Traffk(TM), the Los Angeles art district-based insurance technology company, is excited to announce the acquisition of Portland, Ore.-based Capsci Health. Capsci Health's HIPAA compliant, mobile technology platform personalizes health plan members' benefits, allowing them direct access to their plan's benefits, ID cards, preferred providers and telemedicine.

The addition of Capsci Health's mobile capabilities enables underwriting and risk management to occur at the individual health plan member level by combining Traffk's massive data analytics and insurance underwriting technology with individual member level insights and communications.

"This acquisition is another critical component of Traffk's end-to-end insurance technology solution providing for massive, individualized data collection, analysis of that data through AI, machine learning and proprietary algorithms, and the development of next generation insurance products and services that are personalized, sustainable and actionable," Traffk co-founder, Paul Ford, said.

Capsci's CEO, Chris Logan, is equally optimistic and offered, "We are excited to leverage our mobile technology into Traffk's existing platform and pipeline to allow the true potential to be realized."

Ford continued that, "Traffk's efforts to create the unique capability of synthesizing enormous amounts of data into actionable items for improved insurance underwriting and population health management is now magnified by the ability to directly communicate with and affect consumer behavior in a completely secure environment."

Robert Milligan, the Traffk board member who oversees mergers and acquisitions, commented, "Not only is this a brilliant strategic product move, but working with the capable principals of Capsci led to a creative structure of debt and equity that's of great benefit to each company's shareholders."

For more information, visit: https://www.traffk.com/ and http://www.capscihealth.com/.

About Traffk:

Traffk(TM) modernizes the insurance underwriting process with more accurate data insights and risk profiling that allows risk-bearing companies or health plans to manage profitability, risk, market growth, cross-lines sales, marketing and compliance. Its SaaS platform enables an organization to deploy data mining, analytics and rules automation to manage risk, pricing and utilization.

Traffk helps insurance-related companies manage, use and expand their data to improve underwriting accuracy, manage risk, realize market growth and retention and create data-optimized solutions and product offerings. The insurance-optimized risk management platform is powered by insurance experts, data scientists, machine learning and AI.

Traffk provides:

* Data aggregation and management. It collects, integrates, analyzes and transacts data on its SaaS platform. It's HIPAA-compliant and has successfully passed numerous technology assessments and security platform reviews.

* Traffk Risk Index. It transforms cloud data into actionable, dynamic, multi-variant indexes. Its predictive and responsive, insurance-optimized risk modification index and insights use clients' proprietary data, as well as its rich public information database and proprietary algorithms.

* Consumer risk profiles. It indexes membership into risk profiles to enable efficient and dynamic pricing, risk reduction and underwriting.

* Marketing mining. It helps make data actionable, driving deeper understandings of client and/or consumer tendencies and decision characteristics.

Traffk(TM), the Los Angeles art district-based insurance technology company, is excited to announce the acquisition of Portland, Ore.-based Capsci Health. Capsci Health's HIPAA compliant, mobile technology platform personalizes health plan members' benefits, allowing them direct access to their plan's benefits, ID cards, preferred providers and telemedicine.

Qualia Connects to AgentNet from First American for Integrated Title Services

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Qualia, the fastest growing provider of title settlement software, announced it has integrated its namesake settlement platform with AgentNet(R) from First American Title Insurance Company, a leading provider of title insurance and settlement services and the largest subsidiary of First American Financial Corporation (NYSE:FAF).

The integration enables title agents to generate Closing Protection Letters (CPLs) and policy jackets directly from the Qualia system, eliminating the need to rekey data and work across multiple systems. In addition, the integration also allows title agents to calculate rates and fees directly through Qualia, which significantly reduces the possibility of remittance errors.

"The ability for title agents to operate within a single system not only increases overall efficiency, but it also dramatically decreases the number of errors and redundancies that can slow down the title process," said Nate Baker, CEO of Qualia. "Our integration with First American ensures title agents have access to everything they need directly within the Qualia platform, creating a more streamlined title process."

About First American Title Insurance Company:

First American Title Insurance Company, the largest subsidiary of First American Financial Corporation (NYSE:FAF), traces its history to 1889. One of the largest title insurers in the nation, the company offers title services through its direct operations and an extensive network of agents throughout the United States and abroad. First American Title provides comprehensive title insurance coverage and professional services for real estate purchases, construction, refinances, and equity loans. For more information, visit http://www.firstam.com/title/.

About Qualia:

For title settlement professionals, Qualia provides an all-in-one solution for more efficient and seamless closings. The fastest growing software on the market, Qualia's automated task management, real-time reporting, and best-in-class integrations save title companies thousands of dollars in labor and software costs every year. Qualia's incredible ease-of-use and industry-leading support allows new users to learn Qualia in virtually no time.

To learn more about how Qualia can save you time and money, sign up at https://www.qualia.com/demo or call 855-441-5498.

Qualia, the fastest growing provider of title settlement software, announced it has integrated its namesake settlement platform with AgentNet(R) from First American Title Insurance Company, a leading provider of title insurance and settlement services and the largest subsidiary of First American Financial Corporation (NYSE:FAF).

Ascende – an EPIC Company adds Gary C. McKinney to Southwest Region Business Development Team

HOUSTON, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Gary C. McKinney has joined the firm's Southwest Region Employee Benefits Consulting Practice in Houston (Ascende - an EPIC Company) as Business Development Manager.

McKinney is responsible for communicating the Ascende/EPIC difference and value to business leaders and the broader community. Through these interactions, he identifies opportunities to improve employee programs and administrative services, as well as to better manage costs and optimize a company's return on investment in their people. He collaborates with executive leadership and Ascende/EPIC subject matter experts to craft tailored solutions to advance each client's specific business goals.

McKinney began his career in HR leadership positions with Schlumberger, Ltd and Compaq Computer Corporation. He also served as the VPHR of Landmark Graphics Corp., a software company that assists the E&P industry with finding and developing hydrocarbons, and a wholly owned company of Halliburton. In addition, McKinney served as the CHRO for Valerus LP, a PE backed energy Services Company, and where he helped to drive 20% YOY annualized growth.

Prior to joining Ascende - an EPIC Company, McKinney worked as a CHRO for several Private Equity backed, rapid growth organizations and focused on leveraging human capital to meet both strategic and operational objectives. His emphasis on talent management and development allowed these organizations to maximize the return on their investments in people.

McKinney has also held leadership positions for professional organizations; the Human Capital Planning Society and the Information Services Human Resources Association, as well as serving on the Board of the Baylor Research Initiative and Collaborative.

McKinney received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Psychology from Presbyterian College. Professionally, he earned the Executive HR Certificate from Stanford University and the University of Michigan.

"Gary brings a wealth of knowledge combining his significant experience as a CHRO for some of the world's most successful organizations and supporting the needs of capital sponsors where private equity investments have been made," said Brett Haugh, EPIC's Managing Principal of the Southwest Region. "He has a solid perspective around the orchestration of benefit plans, communications, and the effective use of HR technology to align with business objectives. Gary is a committed, results orientated individual, with a passion for delivering creative, value-added solutions, and he has a reputation for providing thought leadership and a commitment to building strong, positive relationships that align with our core values. We are excited to have Gary join our growing operation in the Southwest Region and across the country."

Said McKinney, "As a senior HR professional, I am responsible for developing new business relationships, introducing the Ascende/EPIC approach and value, and helping our clients develop strategic solutions in all areas of human capital management and employee engagement and retention. This is truly an exciting opportunity for me."

Gary McKinney can be reached at:
Ascende - an EPIC Company
Office: 832-476-9942
Mobile: 713-557-4152
gary.mckinney@epicbrokers.com

About EPIC:
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 1,000 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 20,000 clients.

With more than $200 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Backed by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

More information: http://www.epicbrokers.com/.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Dave Hock, of EPIC
650-295-4608
dave.hock@epicbrokers.com

Nicole Conley
408-295-4309 x104
nicole.conley@taniscomm.com

*PHOTO: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-0313s2p-McKinney-300dpi.jpg

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Gary C. McKinney has joined the firm's Southwest Region Employee Benefits Consulting Practice in Houston (Ascende - an EPIC Company) as Business Development Manager.

Northeast’s Largest Independent Insurance Broker The Capacity Group Joins EPIC

MAHWAH, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Capacity Group of Companies and EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a unique and innovative national retail insurance brokerage and employee benefits consulting firm, announced today that they have joined forces.

Established in 1990, The Capacity Group has grown to become one of the largest full-service independent insurance brokerage groups in the nation. Operating multiple brands from 15 locations across the country, The Capacity Group has assembled some of the world's top-rated providers of specialty insurance and financial services solutions. Today, they are a nationally recognized industry leader and one of the nation's fastest-growing full-service insurance brokerage groups.

EPIC, founded in 2007, is already one of the 20 largest U.S. retail insurance brokers and ranks #26 among the top commercial insurance broker/consultants globally, with a belief in and reputation for service excellence, innovation, community, collaboration and having fun - all in the interest of being a "people first" (clients and team members) organization.

"The Capacity Group has been delivering strategic guidance and service around the risk management, insurance and benefit consulting needs of our clients for more than 25 years," said The Capacity Group's President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Lull. "We believe the decision to join EPIC will help us deliver an even broader and deeper set of capabilities and added value to our clients, with the same commitment to service delivery excellence that has always been a hallmark of our firm. We are thrilled to join forces with a unique and successful company like EPIC."

As part of EPIC, the firm will now operate as The Capacity Group - an EPIC Company, and the Capacity Group's leadership team will continue to play vital roles within the larger EPIC organization.

Said EPIC CEO, John Hahn, "We found a strong cultural partner in The Capacity Group, in an important and highly desirable region where we have wanted to be an even larger partner in the community and see strong opportunities for growth. The Capacity Group, under the leadership of their executive team alongside their impressive team of owner-operators, will add significant value to our clients across the country and create further opportunities for our employees' long-term growth and career success."

EPIC Northeast Region President Thomas O'Neil added, "In addition to the integration and expansion of our respective capabilities, The Capacity Group provides a strong platform in the Northeast to extend our risk management, property casualty insurance, employee benefits consulting, program solutions and private client services to companies across the region and nationally."

The addition of The Capacity Group significantly expands EPIC's capabilities, adding more than 280 top professionals in an additional 15 locations and a strong client base centered in the Northeast.

About The Capacity Group - an EPIC Company:
The Capacity Group - an EPIC Company offers an expansive range of standard and customized insurance and financial products, while providing superior customer service for all types of businesses, industries, and individuals. It has a diversified insurance distribution and product platform in Retail, Wholesale and Specialty Program business, as well as all types of personal, commercial, specialty and benefits lines of business. Headquartered in Mahwah, N.J. the firm has grown organically and through a series of acquisitions and strategic partnerships to become one of the 100 largest insurance brokerage firms in the U.S. It is currently ranked number 39 by Business Insurance magazine, and is among the Top 25 privately held brokerage firms in the U.S. according to Insurance Journal Magazine. For additional information, please visit https://capcoverage.com/

About EPIC:
EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property & 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 across California and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,000 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 20,000 clients.

With more than $250 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Backed by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit http://www.epicbrokers.com/.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Dave Hock, of EPIC
650.295.4608
dave.hock@epicbrokers.com

Nicole Conley
408.295.4309 x104
nicole.conley@taniscomm.com

*LOGO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-0309s2p-capacity-epic-300dpi.jpg

The Capacity Group of Companies and EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a unique and innovative national retail insurance brokerage and employee benefits consulting firm, announced today that they have joined forces. Established in 1990, The Capacity Group has grown to become one of the largest full-service independent insurance brokerage groups in the nation.

LevelFunded Health Selected For Plug and Play Insurtech Program

BOCA RATON, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- LevelFunded Health is excited to announce that it was recently selected as one of the new top innovative insurance businesses by one of Silicon Valley's most active venture group, Plug and Play.

The 12-week program connects promising start-ups, early and growth stage companies, to some of the world's largest insurance corporations. The official corporate partners include Farmers Insurance, Maiden Re, Munich Re, Nationwide, The Hartford, Travelers, Aflac, USAA, AON and many more.

The selection process is vigorous. It begins with 1,000 companies and is then narrowed down to a final 25. Selection criteria are based on factors such as high growth, past proof of concept, current industry traction and products with the potential to be disruptive.

"This is not only a great honor for us, but an amazing opportunity as well. Having been selected into the final 25 we're getting connected to industry powerhouses, which truly benefits our clients with expanded products, services and capabilities from major Fortune 1000 insurance companies," Russ Carpel, CEO of LevelFunded Health, says.

In turn, these market leading companies can invest in new and innovative businesses that promise to enhance the insurance industry's ability to deliver new products and services to clients.

Plug and Play scours the globe for companies that it can invest in and accelerate. And to date, it's apparent that this venture group knows how to pick top entrepreneurs. Companies in its community have raised more than $3.5 billion in funding, with successful portfolio exits that include Dropbox, Lending Club and PayPal.

"Plug and Play clearly provides a platform where new companies and investors can thrive," Carpel says.

About Plug and Play Tech Center:

Plug and Play Tech Center is a global investor and technology accelerator that specializes in growing tech startups. Headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif., Plug and Play's network includes more than 300 tech startups, 180 investors, and a community of leading universities and corporate partners.

For more information, visit: http://plugandplaytechcenter.com/.

About LevelFunded Health:

LevelFunded Health is a national, direct to employer wholesale benefits' brokerage focused on level and self-insured benefit programs for small to mid-size employer groups. For businesses with employees ranging from 50 to 1,000, it can help to immediately save these businesses anywhere from $50,000 to $2 million per year on healthcare costs, while simultaneously improving benefits.

For more information, visit: http://www.levelfunded.com/.

* LOGO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-s2p-LevelFunded-Health-300dpi.jpg

Media Contact:
Russell Carpel
of LevelFunded.com
+1-312-719-9028
russ@levelfunded.com

LevelFunded Health is excited to announce that it was recently selected as one of the new top innovative insurance businesses by one of Silicon Valley's most active venture group, Plug and Play. The 12-week program connects promising start-ups, early and growth stage companies, to some of the world's largest insurance corporations.

EPIC Insurance Recognized as a Top Specialist Broker for Construction and Design Firms Nationally

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that EPIC has been recognized among an elite group of U.S. specialty brokers by Insurance Business America (IBA).

According to IBA, "The foundation of a specialty insurance broker's work is the thorough knowledge of an industry completely separate from their own. Armed with years of education and experience, insurance specialists know the ins and outs of various industry segments, and as such, are able to guide their clients through every risk and exposure. These specialists are the cream of the crop in their respective areas, giving themselves a competitive edge in the modern insurance world."

EPIC points to several factors that were critical in establishing their Construction and Design Solutions specialty practice:
* Building a team of top industry specialists, many of who have worked in Construction and Design or in other professions (e.g. law firms) having a specialty focus on Construction and Design.
* Focusing on their clients' needs using a comprehensive, consultative enterprise risk management approach, rather than simply selling insurance and bonds.
* Staying relevant and not being complacent, and focusing on news, trends and issues that may impact a client's growth and success.
* Creating innovative programs to support their clients in risk management, safety and loss control, insurance products, specialty services and alternative risk financing strategies.
* Building strong, successful, long-term partnerships with underwriters, surety companies and ultimately their clients.

"Construction and Design is a dynamic, innovative and constantly evolving business," said Brian McDonnell, EPIC's National Construction and Design Solutions Practice Leader. "To effectively serve and support clients in this specialty area, you have to constantly continue building knowledge and expertise, stay alert to future trends and opportunities, and move forward with new, unique and creative solutions - or you simply get left behind."

According to EPIC, current challenges facing Construction and Design professionals include limited carrier markets for insurance and bonding, particularly for large, complex construction and design companies designing and building mega projects; a shortage of craft labor; environmental issues that delay projects; government regulations and compliance requirements; onerous contracts and legal issues; promoting and maintaining safety in dangerous work environments; new and evolving risks (e.g. cyber, drones, BIM, LEED, Integrated Project Delivery); an aging construction workforce and its impact on insurance costs and safety; and ever-changing statutory and jurisdictional case law and its effect on insurance coverage and contracts.

"We have worked hard and invested significantly in building our Construction and Design Solutions Practice," said Peter Garvey, President of EPIC. "We are honored and proud to have our commitment to service excellence and status as a trusted and valued client advisor validated by IBA through their recognition of EPIC as a Top Specialist Broker."

About EPIC:
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 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With more than $200 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Backed by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit http://www.epicbrokers.com/.

*LOGO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/16-0308-epic-insurance-300dpi.jpg

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Dave Hock, of EPIC
650.295.4608
dave.hock@epicbrokers.com

Nicole Conley
408.295.4309 x104
nicole.conley@taniscomm.com

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants (EPIC), a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that EPIC has been recognized among an elite group of U.S. specialty brokers by Insurance Business America (IBA).

Simple Recovery Announces its In-network Services with Anthem Blue Cross

COSTA MESA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Simple Recovery, www.simple-recovery.com, a leading Chemical Dependency Treatment Center in Orange County, California, announced today their ability to provide in-network addiction treatment services through 14 major insurance carriers, including Anthem Blue Cross. The announcement is a significant indication that Simple Recovery is committed to providing the highest quality care to as many individuals as possible.

Simple Recovery underwent a demanding clinical evaluation with several managed care organizations to obtain in-network contracts, most recently with Anthem Blue Cross.

"As a Joint Commission accredited behavioral healthcare organization, the high standards required by in-network payers aligned well with our organizational culture and practices," noted Dr. Stephen Odom, CEO of New Vista Behavioral Health, the parent company of Simple Recovery.

Serving over 8.3 million members in California alone, Anthem Blue Cross covers more Californians than any other PPO insurance provider in the state. Data from the California Department of Insurance asserts that 35 percent of Californians have Anthem Blue Cross as their insurance carrier.

"Our partnership with managed care companies is a crucial element of the high-quality and high-value services we provide at Simple Recovery, and we are honored to become an in-network provider," said Dr. Odom. "When Simple Recovery became an in-network provider with most major carriers, not only could we continue to provide the high-quality treatment services that we are known for, but we can now also provide help to more people within their preferred provider networks."

Since opening its doors in 2012, Simple Recovery has helped hundreds of individuals and their families recover from drug and alcohol addiction. Their in-network provider list now includes Aetna Behavioral Health, American Mental Health Network, Anthem Blue Cross, Beacon Health Strategies, LLC (formerly Valueoptions), ComPsych, HMC Healthworks, Integration Behavioral Health (IBH), Magellan Health which manages many California Blue Shield plans), Managed Health Network (MHN), Multiplan, Network by Design, and Western Growers.

About Simple Recovery:

Founded in 2012, Simple Recovery is a Joint Commission Accredited, California licensed and certified, 18-bed residential and extended care program for men and women. Their addiction treatment program seeks to meet each client where they are at in their addiction and help them incorporate their newfound sobriety into their existing world. The achievement and maintenance of sobriety, success and self-respect occurs through both the drug and alcohol treatment process and behavioral change. Simple's successful model bridges the gap between the confines of treatment and real life.

About New Vista Behavioral Health:

New Vista Behavioral Health's mission is to provide innovative, client-centered, evidence-based, treatment solutions to create a healthy and productive new vista for recovery and success. Their centers offer sub-acute detox, residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient services for clients facing Substance Use and Co-Occurring Disorders.

For more information about Simple Recovery and the services they provide, please visit http://www.simple-recovery.com/ or call 888-207-0965.

Media Contact:
Chelsea Brigham, Clinical Outreach Manager
425-890-5162
Chelsea.brigham@newvistabh.com

Simple Recovery, a leading Chemical Dependency Treatment Center in Orange County, California, announced today their ability to provide in-network addiction treatment services through 14 major insurance carriers, including Anthem Blue Cross.

Qualia Integrates with Old Republic Title

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Qualia, the fastest growing provider of title settlement software, announced it has completed an integration with Old Republic Title's ezJacket and Closing Protection Letter (CPL) software applications. As a result, title agents can now generate policy jackets, policy reports and CPLs directly without leaving the Qualia system.

"Settlement software should improve the title agent's ability to work with key business partners, which is why Qualia is committed to delivering superior integrations with leading title vendors," said Nate Baker, CEO of Qualia. "Through our integration with Old Republic Title, we have streamlined the title process for our mutual agents by centralizing all title work into a single system."

About Old Republic Title:
Headquartered in Tampa, Fla., the Old Republic Title Insurance Group, Inc. (ORTIG) is comprised of a multitude of title and related services companies. Its underwriters are Old Republic National Title Insurance Company, formed in 1907, and American Guaranty Title Insurance Company, dating back to 1896. Since 1992, no other title insurer has had higher overall financial-strength ratings than the ORTIG.

The ORTIG (known widely as Old Republic Title) offers a full complement of title insurance underwriting and related services such as: IRS Section 1031 exchanges, notary services, commercial real estate due diligence, UCC insurance, bankruptcy reporting, national timeshare and relocation services, document recording, real estate appraisal, commercial real estate transaction coordination, mortgage servicer solutions, default management, flood reporting, and centralized national order placement services. It is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Old Republic International Corporation (NYSE: ORI), one of the nation's 50 largest publicly held insurance organizations.

About Qualia:
For title settlement professionals, Qualia provides an all-in-one solution for more efficient and seamless closings. The fastest growing software on the market, Qualia's automated task management, real-time reporting, and best-in-class integrations save title companies thousands of dollars in labor and software costs every year. Qualia's incredible ease-of-use and industry-leading support allows new users to learn Qualia in virtually no time.

To learn more about how Qualia can save you time and money, sign up here or call 855-441-5498: https://www.qualia.com/demo/.

Qualia, the fastest growing provider of title settlement software, announced it has completed an integration with Old Republic Title's ezJacket and Closing Protection Letter (CPL) software applications. As a result, title agents can now generate policy jackets, policy reports and CPLs directly without leaving the Qualia system.

EPIC Insurance to Sponsor HR West 2017

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that it will sponsor and exhibit at NCHRA's HR West 2017 Conference on March 6-8 at the Oakland Convention Center in Oakland, Calif. Please visit us at the EPIC Booth 13.

HR West is the West Coast's premier conference for HR professionals. Home to the world's leading-edge companies, the San Francisco Bay Area is the most innovative place on earth. Practicing HR here requires skills beyond the ordinary, and a level of sophistication not found in other parts of the world. This conference addresses how to meet the challenges of globalization, keeping up with the latest hi-tech boom and reacting to ever-evolving definitions of work, all while maintaining a human touch.

HR West will have 100 speakers covering over 80 sessions and separate tracks including compensation & benefits, talent acquisition & retention, employment law & legislation, employee & labor relations, general HR, leadership and business management & strategy. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from the best and meet face-to-face with more than 50 exhibitors offering high-quality HR solutions.

Click here to view the full agenda: http://hrwest.org/sessions/.

About Northern California Human Resources Association:

The Northern California HR Association (NCHRA), one of the nation's largest regional HR associations, has been advancing organizations through human resources since 1960. Delivering over 200 programs annually, the association is dedicated to connecting human resources professionals with practice resources, leading California-specific training, legal and legislative developments, quality service providers, and each other -forming career-long networks and partnerships.

Headquartered in San Francisco, NCHRA serves a community of more than 20,000 throughout its twelve regions in Northern California. The San Francisco Bay Area represents one of the most innovative and challenging sectors of the country (and world) in which to practice HR. As such, our membership demands a level of sophistication unparalleled by others. Nationally recognized for quality and breadth of service, this focus on excellence has earned us members in 34 states and several foreign countries.

About EPIC:
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 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With more than $200 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Backed by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

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

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that it will sponsor and exhibit at NCHRA's HR West 2017 Conference on March 6-8 at the Oakland Convention Center in Oakland, Calif. Please visit us at the EPIC Booth 13.

EPIC adds Southeast Region Employee Benefits Consultant Richard Duhe

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Richard Duhe has joined the firm's Southeast Employee Benefits Consulting Practice in Atlanta as a Benefits Consultant and Director of EPIC MobileEZ(TM).

Across a career spanning 30 years, Duhe has focused on assisting clients in a wide range of industries with their health & welfare risk management needs; specializing in the assessment, design, implementation, and management of medical cost containment and employee engagement programs.

Duhe's experience includes development of mobile application strategies and digital media communication, as well as the identification, analysis and management of a broad spectrum of exposures and risks. He has extensive experience working with third party administrators, associations, and pools.

Prior to joining EPIC, Duhe also developed the EPIC MobileEZ(TM) mobile application, a comprehensive digital media communication solution for employers and their mobile workforces.

As a consultant for EPIC's Employee Benefits practice in the Southeast, Duhe will provide client service leadership, including overall strategy, coverage negotiation, and the coordination and management of internal and external resources.

As Director of EPIC MobileEZ(TM), he will continue to implement risk mitigation, training, wellness, and safety strategies within a mobile environment for EPIC clients.

Duhe will also focus on relationship management and business development, bringing EPIC's resources in employee benefits to clients across the region.

"Rick founded a successful Atlanta, Georgia-based managed care company called MediCor," said Steve Needle, EPIC Managing Principal, Employer Services SE Region. "He has a proven ability to both manage a team and provide creative, cost-effective employee benefit solutions. We are excited to have Rick join EPIC's growing operations here in the Southeast and across the country."

Duhe was appointed to the Governor's Georgia State Board of Worker's Compensation Chairman's Advisory Council, Rehabilitation and Managed Care Committee in 1996, serving as Chairperson from 2009-2012. He is a former certified disability management specialist, certified rehabilitation consultant, and vocational expert. His entrepreneurial endeavors have been mentioned on the front page of the Wall Street Journal and featured on the cover of Inc. magazine.

Richard Duhe can be reached at:
EPIC
Office: 678-475-5713
Mobile: 404-545-0466
rick.duhe@epicbrokers.com

About EPIC:

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 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With more than $200 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Backed by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

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

*PHOTO: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-0227s2p-Richard-Duhe-300dpi.jpg

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Dave Hock, of EPIC
650-295-4608
dave.hock@epicbrokers.com

Nicole Conley
408-295-4309 x104
nicole.conley@taniscomm.com

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Richard Duhe has joined the firm's Southeast Employee Benefits Consulting Practice in Atlanta as a Benefits Consultant and Director of EPIC MobileEZ(TM).

EPIC’s Brian Tanner, Mary Grandy and Tony Lorber Honored as Risk & Insurance Magazine 2017 ‘Power Brokers’

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ — EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Principal Brian Tanner, Senior Vice President Mary Grandy and Senior Vice President Tony Lorber have been recognized as 2017 Power Brokers by Risk & Insurance Magazine.

A Power Broker is defined as an individual who stands out among their peers for the exceptional work they have delivered to their clients over the past year. The brokers awarded Power Broker recognition are judged based on their problem solving, customer service and industry knowledge.

EPIC Principal Brian Tanner, based in Birmingham, Ala., was selected in the Traditional Energy category for his work in helping clients manage the dangers of the oil and gas industry. When a client had a serious, life-threating injury at a worksite, Tanner was instrumental in making sure that the situation, which could have escalated into a large problem, was handled smoothly, efficiently and successfully, due to his experience and knowledge, attention to detail and access to critical resources.

Senior Vice President Mary Grandy, based in Sacramento, Calif., was selected in the Construction category for her ability to find solutions for intractable risk management and insurance problems and challenges. Grandy worked diligently with a client that bought a construction and real-state company to identify and manage insurance needs, keep the program out of state supervision and improve the safety record of the operator.

Senior Vice President Tony Lorber, based in San Francisco, Calif., was selected in the Real Estate category for his unique approach, knowledge and skills, and dedication to providing the highest level of service to his clients. When a client wanted to purchase earthquake insurance on a large portfolio of properties, Lorber identified specific criteria where the client didn’t need to buy coverage on all of its properties by leveraging the use of earthquake models and analytics as well as his deep knowledge of the market.

“There is not much in the way of industry recognition that surpasses selection as a ‘Power Broker,’ and we’re honored that three of our EPIC team members have been recognized by Risk & Insurance Magazine with this prestigious Award,” said Peter Garvey, President of EPIC. “Brian, Mary and Tony personify our core ‘people first’ values, through their professionalism, dedication and leadership, all with the best interests of our clients at the forefront.”

About Risk & Insurance Power Broker Awards:

A Risk & Insurance(R) Power Broker(R) is an individual who stands out among their peers for the exceptional client work they delivered over the past year. While brokers play many key roles in the insurance industry and risk profession, a Power Broker(R) award recognizes problem solving, customer service and industry knowledge.

Our goal is to broadly recognize and promote outstanding risk management and customer service among the brokerage community. Therefore, we don’t select a single winner but instead recognize four to six winners in different industry categories.

About EPIC:

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 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With more than $200 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Backed by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

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

*PHOTO for Media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-0223s2p-epicpbs-300dpi.jpg
*Caption (Left to Right): Brian Tanner, Mary Grandy and Tony Lorber.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Dave Hock, of EPIC
650.295.4608
dave.hock@epicbrokers.com

Nicole Conley
408.295.4309 x104
nicole.conley@taniscomm.com

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Principal Brian Tanner, Senior Vice President Mary Grandy and Senior Vice President Tony Lorber have been recognized as 2017 Power Brokers by Risk & Insurance Magazine.

Long-Term Care Leader ACSIA Partners Raises $15,220 to Help ‘Kill the Wicked Witch of Alzheimer’s’

SEATTLE, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- A colorful event brightened a long-term care convention on January 14 at the Sheraton Seattle Hotel. Over 100 participants wore purple capes as "wizards" to help "kill the wicked witch of Alzheimer's," the mind-robbing disease that afflicts millions. Their company, ACSIA Partners, is one of America's largest long-term care insurance agencies.

The gala gathering raised $15,220 for the Alzheimer's Association, which supports research and services to combat Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.

This is the second year that ACSIA Partners has supported the Alzheimer's Association. They raised a similar amount last year at their conference in Austin, Texas.

Why is the company so concerned with Alzheimer's?

"It's one of the biggest reasons people need long-term care," says Denise Gott, CEO. "According to the Society of Actuaries, about 25 percent of LTC insurance claims are due to the disease. And one in nine Americans age 65 and older are afflicted, according to the Alzheimer's Association. And the rate jumps to one in three for those 85 and older. That's huge."

This puts a big burden on American households. "Families must be prepared to care for those who, for mental reasons, can no longer care for themselves," Gott points out. "It's a serious national issue."

"We're proud to contribute to the Alzheimer's Association," says Gott. "We're also glad we can make a difference directly, through our company's services."

When the disease advances, a loved one may forget where they are or when to eat, or have trouble going to the bathroom, Gott points out. "Family members must care for them personally unless a long-term care financial solution is in place -- some way of paying for professional caregiving."

A sound plan can ease the burden, which can include lifestyle stresses and diminished earning capacity.

ACSIA Partners LLC -- http://www.acsiapartners.com -- is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance agencies serving all states. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

*Image for Media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-0109-alz-wizard-300dpi.jpg
*Image Caption: "Wizards of Alzheimer's" logo.

A colorful event brightened a long-term care convention on January 14 at the Sheraton Seattle Hotel. Over 100 participants wore purple capes as "wizards" to help "kill the wicked witch of Alzheimer's," the mind-robbing disease that afflicts millions. Their company, ACSIA Partners, is one of America's largest long-term care insurance agencies.

EPIC’s Thomas E. O’Neil Returns to New York as President of EPIC’s Northeast Region

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Thomas E. O'Neil has been appointed Northeast Region President, relocating to New York City from EPIC's headquarters in San Francisco, where he has served as President of EPIC's West Region since January 2014.

O'Neil spent most of his nearly 30 year insurance industry career based in the northeast and his relocation and reassignment reflect EPIC's priority to grow aggressively in the region - both by expanding existing northeast operations organically and through strategic mergers and acquisitions.

Earlier in his career, O'Neil held the positions of CEO of USI New York, CEO of USI's Northeast Region and ultimately Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for USI Holdings, Inc. He was a key member of the management and leadership teams that took USI's revenues from $50 million in 1996 to almost $500 million in 2005.

Immediately prior to joining EPIC, O'Neil was the President and CEO of privately-held SafeHarbor Risk Management - a Property & Casualty Insurance Brokerage and Employee Benefit Consulting firm with locations in New York and Boston, Mass. - which he founded in 2009.

"We are excited that Tom has accepted the responsibility and the challenge of leading our growth initiatives in the northeast," said EPIC President Peter Garvey. "His strong background and past success in agency operations and M&A, along with his extensive network and strong, positive relationships in the region will be huge assets in helping EPIC to grow and succeed across the northeast."

As one of the nation's fastest growing private insurance brokerage firms, EPIC has been on an aggressive national growth trajectory, successfully competing against the large institutional brokers with an entrepreneurial, client-focused business model. Since The Carlyle Group became the firm's major investment partner in December 2013, EPIC has added multiple locations and new team members across the country, growing revenues from roughly $80 million to estimated run rate revenues of almost $250 million - a 212% increase.

Said O'Neil, "While I have enjoyed my time in California, successfully building out EPIC's footprint across the west region, I am truly excited to return to my 'roots' in the northeast. We are off to a strong start in the east region, driven by existing operations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York, but there is so much opportunity for a firm like EPIC and I see many exciting developments ahead."

Tom O'Neil can be reached at:
EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants
295 Madison Avenue - 38th Floor, New York, NY 10017
tom.oneil [at] epicbrokers.com
914-740-1620.

About EPIC:
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 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With more than $200 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Supported by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

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

*PHOTO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-0216s2p-TEoneil-300dpi.jpg

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Thomas E. O'Neil has been appointed Northeast Region President, relocating to New York City from EPIC's headquarters in San Francisco.

Chris Kiley Joins Wholesale Trading in San Francisco

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Wholesale Trading Insurance Services, LLC (WTIS) announced today that industry veteran Chris Kiley has joined the firm as Managing Director/Property Broker.

"With over 20 years of property broking and underwriting in N.Y., Chicago and San Francisco, Chris brings WTIS and its retail broker-clients significant experience and knowledge of all facets of complex property brokerage. In addition, his expertise in real estate and specialty property are recognized nationally by the key carriers that participate in those sectors," said Kristopher Bauer, President of WTIS.

Kiley joins WTIS from AmWins Group, Inc. where he was an Executive Vice President and served in various other capacities, including National Property Practice Leader for several years.

"The addition of someone with Chris Kiley's depth of talent, professionalism and customer focus underscores the ongoing commitment to excellence and service to our clients not only at WTIS, but throughout the JenCap distribution network," commented John Jennings, President and CEO of WTIS parent organization JenCap Holdings, LLC.

WTIS is a privately-held wholesale insurance broker created and managed by industry veterans whose goal is to better align the business interests of the retail broker, the wholesaler and insurance carriers for the benefit of the buyer. WTIS has substantial expertise in Property, Casualty and Professional/Management Liability.

For more information about WTIS, visit: http://wtisllc.com/.

About JenCap Holdings, LLC:

JenCap Holdings is a consolidator of specialty insurance distribution and program management businesses, including managing general agencies, specialty program underwriters, transactional wholesale brokers and captive managers. JenCap Holdings has assembled a management team with the sector insight and experience to drive organic growth and strategic acquisitions leveraging technology and advanced data analytics. JenCap Holdings is headquartered in New York.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Les Ross, of WTIS
415-442-8502
lross@wtisllc.com
Nicole Conley
650-422-3156
nicole.conley@taniscomm.com

*LOGO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-0215s2p-wtis-300dpi.jpg

Wholesale Trading Insurance Services, LLC (WTIS) announced today that industry veteran Chris Kiley has joined the firm as Managing Director/Property Broker. WTIS is a privately-held wholesale insurance broker created and managed by industry veterans whose goal is to better align the business interests of the retail broker, the wholesaler and insurance carriers.

EPIC Insurance Adds Adam Frugoli as Vice President in Health Care Strategy Group

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail property & casualty brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Adam Frugoli has joined the firm as a vice president of EPIC's Health Care Strategy Group.

Frugoli will be responsible for new business development, program design and management, marketing and coverage placement, and will oversee EPIC's delivery of products, services and solutions to clients in the healthcare, consumer finance and banking industries. He will divide his time between EPIC's new presence in Idaho Falls, Idaho and EPIC's offices in Sacramento, Calif. Frugoli will report to Tom McCready, Managing Principal, Sacramento Property & Casualty Operations.

Frugoli brings over 16 years of experience serving health care and financial services clients to EPIC. He started his career in 2001 at US Bank N.A. where he was a Vice President of Branch Investment Advisory Services, providing investment counseling, business planning and advisory services to physicians and other medical industry professionals. Frugoli has received many business and community awards, including a "Distinguished Under 40 Award" from the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals Network and now serves on their Board of Directors.

Prior to joining EPIC, Frugoli spent 8 years as vice president and insurance broker with the Leavitt Group (aka Archibald Insurance Center, Rexburg, Idaho), where he focused on creating unique risk transfer strategies for accountable care organizations, hospitals, physician groups, individual doctors and long-term care centers. He has extensive experience working with complex health care clients and understands their unique needs and exposure to risk.

"EPIC has quickly earned a solid reputation nationally of being the brightest in the industry based on their people, client capabilities and their unique culture of innovation," said Frugoli. "I am excited for my clients to see what risk management and insurance the EPIC way can do for their business."

"We are excited to have a professional of Adam's caliber join our team," said EPIC's Tom McCready. "His background and experience, healthcare industry risk management expertise and strong consulting skills will materially contribute to our growth plans and the service excellence we deliver to EPIC clients, here in California, across the west and nationally."

Frugoli attended Idaho State University where he studied Business as well as The American College of Financial Services, where he focused on Personal Financial Services as well as certified HIPAA consultant.

Adam Frugoli can be reached at:
EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants
adam.frugoli [at] epicbrokers.com
208-604-2228.

About EPIC:
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 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With more than $250 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Supported by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

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

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail property & casualty brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Adam Frugoli has joined the firm as a vice president of EPIC's Health Care Strategy Group. Frugoli will be responsible for new business development, program design and management, marketing and coverage placement.

EPIC’s Bill Cosgrove to Lead Panel Discussion at Advisen’s Cyber Risk Insights Conference

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Bill Cosgrove, Managing Principal & Practice Leader, EPIC Financial Risk Solutions, will moderate a panel on Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) exposures at Advisen's Cyber Risk Insights Conference on Wed., Feb. 15 at 2 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Julia Morgan Ballroom in San Francisco, Calif.

The Cyber Risk Insights Conference will focus on the new vulnerabilities caused by an increasingly connected world and how the insurance market is responding to cyber risk and security threats through creative solutions. An expert faculty comprised of leading security, regulatory, risk management and cyber insurance authorities will provide their insights into the critical privacy, network security and insurance coverage issues now facing organizations and their insurers.

Cosgrove will moderate a panel discussing where SME's are most vulnerable, alongside Winston Krone, managing director at Kivu and Jordan Rankell, assistant vice president and West Coast Regional Underwriting Manager at NAS. This panel will look at SME claims, cyber security protocols, and ask how the insurance market can grow in this sector.

Click here to view the full agenda: http://www.advisenltd.com/events/conferences/02/14/2017-cyber-risk-insights-conference-san-francisco/agenda/.

About Bill Cosgrove, Managing Principal & Practice Leader, Financial Risk Solutions, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants:

Bill Cosgrove is a managing principal and practice leader for the Financial Risk Solutions Practice, based in New York. Cosgrove brings 30 years of insurance industry underwriting, production, marketing, client service, management and executive leadership experience to the firm.

Cosgrove is a specialist in the areas of cyber risk, fiduciary liability, directors and officers liability, employment practices risk, crime insurance, transactional risk, as well as trade and structured credit.

Cosgrove and his team have created several bespoke products for EPIC clients across the product mix, including EPICyber(tm) - a proprietary Cyber Risk and Insurance Platform, tailored to the unique needs of small and mid-sized businesses that are increasingly the most desirable targets of Cyber-attacks. Ref: http://www.epicbrokers.com/press/epic-launches-cyber-risk-insurance-platform-for-small-and-mid-sized-businesses/.

Prior to joining EPIC, Bill spent eight years with Willis Group Holdings, where he held various leadership roles in their Financial Institutions practice, most recently as executive vice president, Financial Institutions Group.

Bill also served in director and practice leader positions at Frank Crystal & Company and USI Insurance Holdings, Inc. for six years. Earlier in his career, he was regional underwriting manager at ACE USA (formerly CIGNA Corporation), where he was responsible for specialty risk products throughout a sixteen-state region on the East Coast.

About Cyber Risk Insight Conference:

Advisen will present a full day and a half of learning and networking for risk managers, CISOs, CROs, insurance brokers, insurance underwriters, reinsurers and other risk professionals. Day 1 of this day-and-a-half program will focus on the new vulnerabilities caused by an increasingly connected world and devices. Panelists will discuss the Internet of Things and its relevance to Cyber and beyond.

On Day 2, the sessions will focus on Cyber Risk and Security Threats and how the insurance market is responding and working with the InfoTech sector to develop creative solutions. An expert faculty comprised of leading security, regulatory, risk management, and cyber insurance authorities will provide their insights into the critical privacy, network security and insurance coverage now issues facing organizations and their insurers.

About EPIC:

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 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With more than $200 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Backed by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

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

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Bill Cosgrove, Managing Principal & Practice Leader, EPIC Financial Risk Solutions, will moderate a panel on Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) exposures at Advisen's Cyber Risk Insights Conference on Wed., Feb. 15 in San Francisco.

EPIC adds Doug Bull to Construction and Design Solutions Practice in San Francisco

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that risk management and insurance professional Doug Bull has joined the firm's Construction and Design Solutions team in San Francisco as a vice president.

Bull will be responsible for new business development, program design and management, marketing and coverage placement, and will oversee EPIC's delivery of products, services and solutions to clients in the construction, design and real estate industries.

An industry veteran whose career spans nearly 30 years, Bull joins EPIC from Aon Risk Insurance Services West, Inc. in San Francisco, where he was an Account Executive/Broker in Aon's Construction Services Group. There Bull was responsible for production, marketing, placement, client relationships, and contract review for mid to large size construction and real estate accounts.

Prior to this Bull was with commercial insurance broker ABD Insurance and Financial Services in Redwood City, Calif. where he was an Account Executive responsible for producing, serving and retaining a large book of commercial and residential construction accounts. Bull spent the first 10 years of his career on the insurance company side of the business, in a range of underwriting and underwriting management positions.

"We are very excited to have a broker of Doug's caliber join our Construction and Design Solutions team," said Curt Perata, EPIC Regional Director of Property & Casualty Operations. "His background and experience, construction industry risk management expertise and strong consulting skills will materially contribute to our growth plans and the service excellence we deliver daily to EPIC clients, here in California and across the country."

As one of the nation's fastest growing private insurance brokerage firms, EPIC has been on an aggressive national growth trajectory, successfully competing against the large, institutional brokers with an entrepreneurial, client-focused business model. Since The Carlyle Group became the firm's major investment partner in December 2013, EPIC has added multiple locations and new team members across the country, growing revenues from roughly $80 million to estimated run rate revenues of almost $250 million - a 212 percent increase.

Bull is a graduate of the University of California at Berkeley where he earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Degree in Political Science.

Doug Bull can be reached at:
EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants
135 Main Street - 21st Floor, San Francisco, CA 94105
doug.bull [at] epicbrokers.com
415-356-3919 - office.

About EPIC:
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 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With more than $200 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Supported by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit http://www.epicbrokers.com/.

*PHOTO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-0207s2p-EPIC-Doug-Bull-300dpi.jpg

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants (EPIC), a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that risk management and insurance professional Doug Bull has joined the firm's Construction and Design Solutions team in San Francisco as a vice president.

EPIC Strengthens Southern California Benefits Team with the Acquisition of Benefit Compass

IRVINE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property & casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today it has acquired Benefit Compass Insurance Services, LLC, a specialist in employee benefits brokerage and consulting services.

Based in Irvine, Calif., Benefit Compass provides employee benefit solutions, human resource consulting and employee engagement strategies, with a particular specialty focus on the unique needs of auto dealers.

Benefit Compass will further broaden the specialized benefits and HR consulting services available to EPIC clients, particularly new car auto dealers - a long time area of expertise and focus for EPIC, the broker providing Workers' Compensation Insurance and Employee Benefits Programs to members of the California New Car Dealers Association since 2011.

"The addition of the Benefit Compass team is an exciting development in the continuing growth of EPIC," said John Connell, EPIC President, Employee Benefits of California. "Our clients benefit significantly when we add top professionals like the Benefit Compass team with unique and highly specialized consulting skills and experience."

Benefit Compass co-founders Ron Joy, Alison McCallum and Mark Pattinson added, "We are very proud of the fact that we have always adhered to the simple philosophy of doing what's in the best interest of our clients, and are extremely pleased that this philosophy aligns strongly with EPIC's own culture and values. As part of EPIC, we have access to more resources, experienced professionals in multiple disciplines, and extensive insurance company relationships - all of which will provide added value to our current and future clients."

Since The Carlyle Group became the firm's major investment partner in December 2013, EPIC has nearly tripled revenues, from roughly $80 million to current run rate revenues exceeding $200 million.

About EPIC:
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 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With more than $200 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Supported by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit http://www.epicbrokers.com/.

*LOGO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/16-0308-epic-insurance-300dpi.jpg

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property & casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today it has acquired Benefit Compass Insurance Services, LLC, a specialist in employee benefits brokerage and consulting services.

EPIC Adds Bill Bergstrom as Vice President and Program Leader of Golf Insurance Services

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail property & casualty brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Bill Bergstrom has joined the firm to lead the operations and growth initiatives of its Golf Insurance Services Program, which has provided insurance and risk management solutions to golf courses and country clubs since 1985.

Bergstrom joins EPIC following nearly 20 years with Pennbrook Insurance Services, Inc. in San Francisco, where he was most recently the firm's COO and Managing Principal. He will be based in EPIC's Sacramento office and report to Paul Lindsay, Senior Vice President and Director of EPIC Program Solutions.

Said Paul Lindsay, "As a life-long, avid golfer, Bill was drawn to the EPIC opportunity created by Gary Sigel's decision to retire last year. We are very pleased and excited to add a top professional like Bill to continue Gary's great work, and lead the further expansion of Golf Insurance Services here in the West and across the country."

Bergstrom attended the University of California at Davis where he earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Degree in Sociology and Organizational Studies.

EPIC Golf Insurance Services (GIS) places and manages roughly $20 million in premium for its clients and is a sector of EPIC's Sports & Entertainment Group. GIS provides golf courses and country clubs with risk management consulting, strong industry expertise and comprehensive insurance solutions, including exclusive Property & Casualty and Workers Compensation Insurance programs. GIS has twice been recognized as an "Excellence in Achievement" award winner by The Boardroom Magazine as their "Insurance Provider of the Year."
Bill Bergstrom can be reached at:
EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants
1765 Challenge Way, Suite 200, Sacramento, CA 95815
bill.bergstrom [at] epicbrokers.com
916-576-1553 - direct.

About EPIC:

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property & 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 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With more than $250 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Supported by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

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

*PHOTO: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-0201s2p-Bergstrom-300dpi.jpg

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property & casualty brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Bill Bergstrom has joined the firm to lead the operations and growth initiatives of its Golf Insurance Services Program, which has provided insurance and risk management solutions to golf courses and country clubs since 1985.

EPIC Insurance Adds Christopher J. Giuditta as Vice President in the Northeast

STAMFORD, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Christopher J. Giuditta has joined the firm as a vice president.

Giuditta will focus on the cultivation and development of new revenue opportunities throughout EPIC's Northeast Region. He will be based in the Stamford, Conn. and report to Craig de Gruchy, Managing Principal.

"CJ is a dedicated, resulted orientated individual, with a passion for service excellence and the delivery of value-added solutions," said de Gruchy. "He is well regarded in our industry and his commitment to customers is strongly aligned with EPIC's core values regarding client advocacy and putting 'people first.' We are excited to have CJ join our growing operation in the Northeast Region."

Giuditta joins EPIC from H.D. Segur Insurance. During his 17 year career there, he provided individuals and business owners with customized risk management and insurance solutions while overseeing the service team regarding client satisfaction and retention.

Additionally, Giuditta worked with third party referral partners to enhance their offerings, including ensuring their clients' awareness of and protection from a wide range of risk exposures. Giuditta was also a top producer for new affinity groups along with maintaining and growing the firm's Travelers Benefits Plus programs.

For the past five years, Giuditta has concentrated on the private client segment, providing personal risk management guidance and custom insurance protection to high net worth individuals.

Giuditta is a graduate of Post College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Management. Professionally, he is a licensed property and casualty and life and health producer in both Conn. and N.Y. and is currently working toward his Certified Personal Risk Manager (CPRM) professional designation.

Christopher J. Giuditta can be reached at:
EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants
3 Landmark Square, 4th floor, Stamford, CT 06901
christopher.giuditta[at]epicbrokers.com
203-658-0529.

About EPIC:

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 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With more than $250 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Supported by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

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

*PHOTO: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-0130s2p-Giuditta-300dpi.jpg

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Christopher J. Giuditta has joined the firm as a vice president. Giuditta will focus on the cultivation and development of new revenue opportunities throughout EPIC's Northeast Region.

Senior Business Leader and Consultant Duane Dennis Joins EPIC in Southern California

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Duane Dennis has joined the firm as a senior consultant and principal in the firm's Southern California Employee Benefits Consulting Practice.

Dennis will be responsible for business development, strategy, program design, implementation and management of employee benefits programs for EPIC clients. In addition to his regional responsibilities, Dennis will also work with EPIC's National Benefits Consulting Practice leadership on several key growth and client support initiatives.

Dennis will be based in EPIC's Los Angeles office and report to Southern California managing principal Jim Gillette.

A highly experienced consultant whose career spans more than 20 years, Dennis joins EPIC from benefit consulting technology company HIXME, where he was executive vice president, sales and marketing.

Dennis previously spent 11 years at Mercer Human Resource Consulting, where he held the positions of Partner - Chair of U.S. and Global Sales Leadership Teams and Member of U.S. and Pacific Southwest Market Leadership Teams; and Client Manager/Business Development Executive.

As one of the nation's fastest growing private insurance brokerage firms, EPIC has been on an aggressive national growth trajectory, successfully competing against the large, institutional brokers with an entrepreneurial, client-focused business model and "people first" culture.

"Duane is a tremendous addition to our team," said EPIC's Jim Gillette. "His ability to grow revenue and build long term business partnerships will add significant value to the firm. We are thrilled to have him join our Benefits Consulting Practice in Southern California and across the country."

"I am very excited to join EPIC," said Dennis. "They are an innovative, fast-growing firm with a great national team and strong, experienced leadership. With so much change taking place in our country and around the world, I can most effectively serve my own clients as part of a leading-edge, flexible, responsive organization that puts the needs and best interests of clients ahead of all else. This is what I have found in EPIC."

Duane Dennis can be reached at:
EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants
601 South Figueroa Street, Suite 3950, Los Angeles, CA 90017
duane.dennis[at]epicbrokers.com
Office: 213-629-8921

About EPIC:

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 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With more than $250 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Supported by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

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

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Duane Dennis has joined the firm as a senior consultant and principal in the firm's Southern California Employee Benefits Consulting Practice.

EPIC Now Ranked No. 26 Among the World’s Largest Commercial Insurance Brokers

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, has been ranked #26 among the world's top insurance brokers in Finaccord's "Global Insurance Broking: A Strategic Review of the World's Top 150 Commercial Non-Life Insurance Brokers."

Finaccord is a market research, publishing and consulting company specializing in financial services.

"Many thanks for participating in our research on the 150 largest global commercial non-life insurance brokers," said Claire Michaud, a London-based Finaccord Financial Services Analyst. "According to our analysis, EPIC was ranked 26th worldwide based on 2015 commercial non-life broking revenues."

As one of the fastest growing private insurance brokerage firms based in the U.S., EPIC has been on an aggressive growth trajectory, successfully competing against the largest, institutional brokers with an entrepreneurial, client-focused business model. The firm jumped an impressive 20 spots since being ranked at #46 by Finaccord in their 2014 Research Report.

Since The Carlyle Group became the firm's major investment partner in December 2013, EPIC has nearly tripled revenues, from roughly $80 million to current run rate revenues exceeding $200 million.

"Standing on the edge of being a top 25 insurance broker globally is an accomplishment we are very proud of," said EPIC Co-founder and CEO John Hahn. "What is even more remarkable is that we achieved this milestone just nine years from our founding. This is truly a testimony to the determination, character and quality of our people and the work they have done to build and sustain EPIC's client-focused, people first culture, structure and business practices."

Additional information about Finaccord and their Global "Insurance Broking: A Strategic Review of the World's Top 150 Commercial Non-Life Insurance Brokers" report (including purchase information) can be found here on their web site: http://www.finaccord.com/uk/report_global_insurance_broking_strategic_review_world_top_150_commercial_non-life_insurance_brokers.htm .

About EPIC:
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 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With more than $200 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Supported by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

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

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, has been ranked #26 among the world's top insurance brokers in Finaccord's "Global Insurance Broking: A Strategic Review of the World's Top 150 Commercial Non-Life Insurance Brokers."

EPIC’s Rosemary Manning Hughes to Present at ISCEBS 2017 Health and Welfare Compliance Update

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that senior consultant and principal Rosemary Manning Hughes will present at the 2017 Health & Welfare Compliance Update put on by the New York Metro Area Chapter of the International Society of Certified Employee Benefit Specialists (ISCEBS) on Wednesday, Jan. 25 at 8:45 a.m. at BDO, 100 Park Ave., 11th Floor in New York, N.Y.

Health care continues to be in a state of change and employers will need to be alert to updates to regulations that were issued in 2016, as well as the proposed changes for 2017. Hughes will walk attendees through key topics in health and welfare legislation to assist in keeping plan sponsors compliant.

This event is free for members and $30 for non-members. Attendees of this event will receive 1.0 hour CEBS CPE credit and approval is pending for 1.0 hour of HRCI credit and 1.0 hour of SHRM PDC credit.

For additional information on program and registration information, click here (PDF): https://www.iscebs.org/Local/Locations/Documents/PDF/chapters/2017/170125_NYM.pdf.

About Rosemary Manning Hughes, senior consultant and principal, EPIC:

Rosemary Manning Hughes is a senior consultant and principal based in EPIC's Stamford, Conn., and New York, N.Y. offices. She brings over 25 years of experience in the employee benefits industry. Prior to joining EPIC in June 2015, Manning Hughes was the Director of Benefits, Americas, for Avis Budget Group (ABG), responsible for all aspects of the strategy and administration of all health and welfare, defined benefit and defined contribution retirement plans, and global wellness. Before Manning Hughes joined ABG, she was a health and welfare consultant for such firms as Arthur J. Gallagher, Fidelity, and Mercer Consulting. Manning Hughes specializes in finding solutions that engage employees while managing costs.

About The International Society of Certified Employee Benefit Specialists:

The International Society of Certified Employee Benefit Specialists (ISCEBS) is the premier interactive community providing educational resources, innovative thinking and collective wisdom to help members excel and prosper in their careers. This membership organization is for those who have earned the Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS), Group Benefits Associate (GBA), Retirement Plans Associate (RPA) and Compensation Management Specialist (CMS) designations.

Members have access to a variety of educational resources and networking opportunities that can broaden their knowledge and enhance their careers. Since 1981, the Society has provided educational programs, information and networking resources, publications, and other services to a diverse group of benefits professionals.

About EPIC:
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 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With more than $200 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Backed by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

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

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that senior consultant and principal Rosemary Manning Hughes will present at the 2017 Health & Welfare Compliance Update put on by the New York Metro Area Chapter of the International Society of Certified Employee Benefit Specialists (ISCEBS) on Wednesday, Jan. 25 at 8:45 a.m. at BDO, 100 Park Ave., 11th Floor in New York, N.Y.

EPIC Insurance to Speak at Cap-Intro West Conference

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that its Managing Principal & Practice Leader - Financial Risk Solutions, Bill Cosgrove will speak at the Cap-Intro West Conference on January 19, 2017 at the Hyatt Regency in San Francisco, Calif. in the Main Hall - Pacific Level.

Cap-Intro West, presented by North Street Global, is a 1-on-1 focused event bringing together Private Equity, VC & Hedge Fund managers, institutional allocators, funds of funds, family offices and tactical investors annually in San Francisco. Cap-Intro West also provides leading edge interactive sessions with expert speakers from across the capital markets sharing their views on the most compelling investment opportunities for the coming year and practical workshops dedicated to Fund Marketing and optimizing the capital raising process.

Click here to view the full agenda: http://west.capintroconference.com/.

About Bill Cosgrove, Managing Principal & Practice Leader, Financial Risk Solutions, EPIC:

Bill is a Managing Principal and Practice Leader for the Financial Risk Solutions National Resource Group based in New York. Bill brings 30 years of insurance industry brokerage, underwriting, production, marketing, client service management and executive leadership experience to EPIC.

He is a specialist in the areas of Directors and Officers ("D&O"), Employment Practices Liability ("EPL"), Cyber Risk, Fiduciary Liability, Crime Insurance, Transactional Risk, as well as Trade and Structured Credit. Bill and his team have created several bespoke products for EPIC clients in the areas of Cyber, D&O and EPL, incorporating market-leading policy terms and price metrics.

Bill has worked on several unique projects for Alternative Asset Managers, Investment Advisers, Banks, Broker/Dealers and other financial services companies. Projects included operational and regulatory risk advisory and insurance risk program development.

Before joining EPIC, Bill spent eight years with Willis Group Holdings, where he held various leadership roles in their Financial Institutions practice, most recently as executive vice president, Financial Institutions Group.

Bill also served in director and practice leader positions at Frank Crystal & Company and USI Insurance Holdings, Inc. for six years. Earlier in his career, he was regional underwriting manager at ACE USA, where he was responsible for specialty risk products throughout a sixteen-state region on the East Coast.

Bill earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science from Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio.

About EPIC:

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 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With more than $200 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Backed by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

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

*PHOTO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/s2p-Bill-Cosgrove-300dpi.jpg

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that its Managing Principal & Practice Leader - Financial Risk Solutions, Bill Cosgrove will speak at the Cap-Intro West Conference on January 19, 2017 at the Hyatt Regency in San Francisco, Calif. in the Main Hall - Pacific Level.

EPIC adds Timothy B. Ward to Risk Solutions Practice

STAMFORD, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that casualty risk management professional Timothy Ward has joined the firm's Stamford, Connecticut-based EPIC Risk Solutions Practice as a Principal and Casualty Practice Leader.

Ward will be based in EPIC's Stamford, Conn. office and report to EPIC Risk Solutions principal, Mark Millard.

Over a career spanning 23 years, Ward has focused on assisting clients in a wide range of industries with their casualty risk management needs, specializing in the design, management, assessment and implementation of risk management and insurance programs; including risk identification and analysis, risk transfer utilizing insurance products and alternative risk financing strategies across a broad spectrum of exposures and risks.

Prior to joining EPIC, Ward was with Marsh & McLennan in a variety of casualty risk management and insurance placement roles. Most recently Ward was senior vice president and leader of the "national desk" within the casualty placement practice, based in New York. Working with a team of 13 insurance professionals, Ward led in excess of 350 complex transactions annually, focused on clients within the public and private Fortune 1,000 space.

In addition, Ward spent considerable time leveraging analytics to hone program design achieving optimized economic performance, collaborating with clients and prospects to structure enhanced casualty process flow, delivery of service, and evaluating insurers and TPA's who maintain the attributes and capabilities to help drive business forward.

"Our Northeast leadership team is very excited to have someone of Tim's caliber join our group," said EPIC's Mark Millard. "His background and experience, casualty risk management expertise and strong leadership skills will materially contribute to the future growth of EPIC Risk Solution and the service excellence we deliver nationally to EPIC clients with complex risk management needs."

As one of the nation's fastest growing private insurance brokerage firms, EPIC has been on an aggressive national growth trajectory, successfully competing against the large, institutional brokers with an entrepreneurial, client-focused business model. Since The Carlyle Group became the firm's major investment partner in December 2013, EPIC has added multiple locations and new team members across the country, growing revenues from roughly $80 million to estimated run rate revenues of almost $250 million - a 212 percent increase.

Ward is a graduate of Ohio Wesleyan University in Delaware, OH where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economic Management.

Timothy Ward can be reached at:
EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants
3 Landmark Square, Stamford, CT 06901
203-658-0514 direct
timothy.ward [at] epicbrokers.com

About EPIC:
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 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With more than $200 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Backed by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit http://www.epicbrokers.com/.

*PHOTO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-0112s2p-tim-ward-300dpi.jpg

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that casualty risk management professional Timothy Ward has joined the firm's Stamford, Connecticut-based EPIC Risk Solutions Practice as a Principal and Casualty Practice Leader.

EPIC Adds Melissa Delaney as Senior Vice President – Private Client Solutions

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail property, casualty brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Melissa Delaney has joined the firm as a senior vice president in their Private Client Solutions Specialty Group.

Delaney will be responsible for client relations, management and production for EPIC's Northeast Region Private Client Solutions team. She will be based in the firm's New York City office and report to Craig de Gruchy, Managing Principal of EPIC.

"We are very excited to have a professional of Melissa's caliber join our group," said Craig de Gruchy. "Her background and experience, personal risk management expertise and leadership skills will materially contribute to EPIC's Northeast Region Private Client Solutions team."

Delaney joins EPIC from HUB International, where she served as team leader in their Private Client Services division and was responsible for developing and maintaining risk management and personal insurance solutions for high-net-worth individuals and families.

Prior to this, Delaney was an assistant vice president responsible for business development and sales at Gallagher Bollinger Insurance. Delaney began her insurance career as a Customer Service Representative for Chubb & Son.

Delaney is a graduate of Seton Hall University in South Orange, New Jersey, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration and Communications. She is a licensed property and casualty producer in both New York and New Jersey.

Melissa Delaney can be reached at:
EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants
295 Madison Avenue - 38th Floor, New York, NY 10017
melissa.delaney@epicbrokers.com
646-455-9561

About EPIC:

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 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With more than $250 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Supported by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

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

*LOGO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/16-0308-epic-insurance-300dpi.jpg

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Melissa Delaney has joined the firm as a senior vice president in their Private Client Solutions Specialty Group. Delaney will be responsible for client relations, management and production for EPIC's Northeast Region Private Client Solutions team.

Long-Term Care Leader ACSIA Partners Will Help ‘Kill the Wicked Witch of Alzheimer’s’

SEATTLE, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- For the second year in a row, ACSIA Partners, a national long-term care insurance agency based in Kirkland, Wash., will join the fight against Alzheimer's disease. As part of its three-day annual conference, the company will host a fundraiser on behalf of the Alzheimer's Association, which seeks a cure for the debilitating disease.

The gala event, on January 14, will be held at the Sheraton Seattle Hotel. The company has hundreds of agents nationwide, all invited to the conference. Those attending the gala will don purple capes as "Wizards of Alzheimer's" to highlight the need to "kill the wicked witch." Media representatives are welcome.

Last year, the company raised thousands of dollars for the Alzheimer's Association. "We aim to raise thousands again this year," says Denise Gott, CEO.

Why the company's interest in Alzheimer's?

"It's simple," says Gott. "The disease has become a leading reason care is needed."

* About one in four long-term care insurance claims are due to Alzheimer's, according to the Society of Actuaries.

* Alzheimer's or another form of dementia afflicts one in nine Americans age 65 and older, and one in three age 85 and older, according to the Alzheimer's Association.

"It's a real threat to most families," says Gott. "At some point Alzheimer's sufferers may need help eating, moving around, or going to the bathroom. Unless their loved ones are prepared to help them do such things, they need savings or insurance to hire professionals. Our mission is to educate Americans about their options."

"Eventually," Gott adds, "we'd like to knock the disease stone dead. In the meantime, we can help people live better lives in spite of it."

ACSIA Partners LLC -- http://www.acsiapartners.com -- is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance agencies serving all states. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

*Image for Media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-0109-alz-wizard-300dpi.jpg

*Image Caption: "Wizards of Alzheimer's" logo.

For the second year in a row, ACSIA Partners, a national long-term care insurance agency based in Kirkland, Wash., will join the fight against Alzheimer's disease. As part of its three-day annual conference, the company will host a fundraiser on behalf of the Alzheimer's Association, which seeks a cure for the debilitating disease.

EPIC Insurance Recognized for a Seventh Time as a Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, has been recognized by their team members nationally as one of the "Best Places to Work in Insurance" in a survey conducted annually by Business Insurance Magazine and co-sponsor Best Companies Group. This is the 7th time that EPIC has received this significant and meaningful award.

Only 75 companies nationally are selected as "Best Places to Work in Insurance," based largely on a high level of employee engagement and overall satisfaction with company culture, benefit programs, management practices, career opportunities, and work life balance.

Based on employee feedback, EPIC was ranked #10 in the medium employer category (250 - 999 U.S. employees), where just 17 companies were recognized.

According to Business Insurance, "The 2016 Best Places to Work in Insurance feature showcases the firms that are leading the industry as employers of choice. What they all have in common is a strong commitment to attracting, developing and retaining great talent through employee benefits and other programs that their people value."

"At EPIC, we believe that a strong, positive culture is built on opportunity, personal responsibility, mutual trust and respect, commitment to community, a healthy work/life balance, and having fun," said Mary Smith, executive vice president of human resources. "These beliefs and values - what we call our 'EPICness' - are key to attracting and retaining the industry's best professionals; effectively serving our clients; and providing the foundation for sustained growth and success. We are honored to receive this recognition from our team members, Business Insurance and Best Companies Group for a seventh year in 2016."

About EPIC

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 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With more than $250 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Supported by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

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

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, has been recognized by their team members nationally as one of the "Best Places to Work in Insurance" in a survey conducted annually by Business Insurance Magazine and co-sponsor Best Companies Group. This is the 7th time that EPIC has received this significant and meaningful award.

Long-Term Care Insurance Is a Gift for the Whole Family, ACSIA Partners Says

KIRKLAND, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- If you want to brighten the lives of everyone in your family, "Consider the gift of long-term care insurance," says Denise Gott, CEO of ACSIA Partners, a leader in long-term care planning.

"Whether you get the policy for yourself or for aging parents, it's really a gift for everyone," Gott asserts.

"Different family members benefit in different ways at different times," she says, "but everyone stands to benefit overall." For example:

* If you get a policy for yourself or spouse, you protect your assets and the future of your entire extended family. "With money available to pay for care," says Gott, "your savings and property won't be as vulnerable to unexpected care costs. And you may avoid relying on your children or other relatives to pay for your care." This knowledge alone can ease tensions and make the holiday season more pleasant, Gott points out.

* If you get a policy for aging parents, everyone benefits, not just them. "Your parents may live the rest of their lives with greater security and less fear," says Gott, "but you may also benefit. You guard against sudden, large care expenses down the pike, which could be disruptive. And you gain more control over your own future." For example, she explains, there's less likelihood you or your spouse will have to leave a job to provide care personally.

* Your children stand to benefit, too. With care expenses made more manageable through planning, educational plans can be made with greater certainty. "It's less likely you'll ever have to choose between tuition for your kids and care for your parents or spouse," says Gott.

* Added reward from Uncle Sam. A portion of long-term care premiums may be deducted on federal income tax returns. Tax deductions or credits are also available in many states. "It's like a gift, a nice incentive, and it keeps recurring," says Gott. "You can set yourself up for 2016 and every year after."

"Long-term care insurance is truly a gift that keeps on giving," says Gott. "You'll have less to worry about this holiday season, and every holiday season from here on. You can relax and enjoy the festivities and one another."

Shopping for long-term care insurance is made easy on the ACSIA Partners website: http://www.acsiapartners.com/.

Visitors may explore a range of affordable long-term care planning options including critical illness insurance, annuities, and life insurance with LTC riders as well as traditional LTC insurance. By-phone or face-to-face meetings with local agents are also available.

ACSIA Partners LLC -- http://www.acsiapartners.com -- is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance solution agencies. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, run by the 3in4 Association, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

If you want to brighten the lives of everyone in your family, "Consider the gift of long-term care insurance," says Denise Gott, CEO of ACSIA Partners, a leader in long-term care planning. "Whether you get the policy for yourself or for aging parents, it's really a gift for everyone."

Attorney M. David Shapiro Advises Consumers about Post-Crash Insurance Rate Hikes

SARASOTA, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- M. David Shapiro, founding partner of the personal injury and civil trial law firm Shapiro Goldman Babboni & Walsh, has offered consumers insight into auto insurance rate-hikes that can occur after being involved in an accident.

Mr. Shapiro said: "One of the very first questions I hear from clients who have been involved in an auto collision is 'will my insurance rates go up?' It depends.

"Florida Statute 626.9541(o)3.a. prohibits, 'imposing or requesting an additional premium for a policy of motor vehicle liability, personal injury protection, medical payment, or collision insurance or any combination thereof or refusing to renew the policy solely because the insured was involved in in a motor vehicle accident unless the insurer's file contains information from which the insurer in good faith determines that the insured was substantially at fault for the accident.'

"Although it appears to make it illegal to raise the rate or cancel the insurance, the last part provides some cover to the insurer to use his or her judgment to penalize with rate increase or drop them altogether. It will not necessarily turn on the investigating officer's decision as to who deserved the ticket. The concept of 'fault' is a moving target."

Mr. Shapiro continued with, "Another factor considered when establishing rates and whether to drop a policy is the number of claims a person has made, regardless of fault. In order to raise rates or drop a person, some insurance companies will consider a road-side assistance as a claim in order to justify their actions.

"Nothing in the law is black or white. But to not utilize the insurance when you have a legitimate claim defeats the very purpose the premiums were paid in the first place. Your lawyer should know the law regarding insurance increases and be prepared to fight when the injured victim is being abused by the carrier when he or she needs them the most."

About Sarasota Attorney M. David Shapiro:

Attorney M. David Shapiro is an AV-rated civil trial lawyer, the highest rating awarded to litigation attorneys. He is also board certified by the Florida Bar. Shapiro is an experienced trial lawyer who has earned the respect of his peers in the legal community. David has successfully litigated civil rights cases involving access to courts and rights under the Rehabilitation Act to the United States Supreme Court. For more than 20 years, Shapiro has practiced exclusively in the area of personal injury and wrongful death in Sarasota, Florida.
Shapiro Goldman Babboni & Walsh
308 Cocoanut Ave, Sarasota FL, 34236
Local: 941-954-4000

More about M. David Shapiro at: http://www.getmejustice.com/.

Twitter: @GetMeJustice

M. David Shapiro, founding partner of the personal injury and civil trial law firm Shapiro Goldman Babboni & Walsh, has offered consumers insight into auto insurance rate-hikes that can occur after being involved in an accident.