CURRENT NEWS

Annual Ohio Council meeting held November 5-6, 2011

The annual meeting of the Ohio Council NAIW was held at the Hilton Garden Inn in Perrysburg, Ohio. On Friday evening, a hospitality room was provided with food, playing various games, networking opportunities, & visiting with other members. A palm reader was present, and several members were given a demonstration of what their futures may hold.

On Saturday morning, after a welcome from Nancy Homan, meeting chairman & member of the Insurance Women of Toledo, the meeting was called to order by Region IV Vice President Taffy Troup in the absence of Council Director Jennifer Baker. There was a flag presentation by four members of Scout Troop 101 & the Pledge of Alliegence was repeated by those in attendence. Membership Chairman, Betsy Adams welcomed five First Timers & read them their Bill of Rights.

The annual Ohio Council Confidence While Communicating competition was held. The winner of the speak-off was Sandy Fintel, member of the Insurance Women of Toledo. Sandy has been employed by Huntington Insurance, Inc for more than 9 years as an Insurance Account Relationship Manager. When asked for comments, Sandy said, "I encourage all to get involved in IAIP/NAIW. This organization helps one grow in character and integrity and the networking and education is just the many benefits of being a part of this group." Sandy has worked in the industry for 19 years & lives in Toledo. Sandy will represent the Ohio Council in the CWC Speak-off at Region IV Conference in March. Runner-Up in the competition was Susan Friedrich, member of the Insurance Women of Greater Cincinnati. Susan is employed by Cincinnati Insurance companies a Senior Policy Service Coordinator. Congratulations to both ladies for a job well done!

The keynote speaker was Casey Cook from the Marketing Department of the Toledo Zoo.

Mr. Cook spoke on various aspects of the Toledo Zoo, which is one of the preimier zoos in the U.S. He noted that the Toledo Zoo is one of the older zoos and that it is currently undergoing renovations and a building construction program. The zoo has has several historic buildings which were constructed as part of public works program during the Great Depression in the 1920's and 30's. Mr. Cook also talked about endangered animals, showed slides, and gave information on a bond issue that would be on the ballot. He answered questions from the audience.

After a brief recess, Awards Chairman Sherry Distelhorst presented two awards. These were: Rookie of the Year - Barbara Kindel, member of Insurance Women of Cleveland & Insurance Professional of the Year - Pat Johnson, member of Insurance Professionals of Columbus. Various commitee chairmen gave reports and several changes were made to Council Bylaws. Bids were confirmed for future meetings, and new bids were also recieved.

Region IV VP Taffy Troup discussed the August board of officers meeting, changes to the international Convention, and gave her theme for the year, and discussed plans for Region IV Conference. She is seeking members willing to volunteer for chairing or serving on committees at the conference.

Scheduled dates were made for the coming year:
Region IV Conference date/place to be determined Michigan
Education Day May 4-5 Chillicothe
NAIW/IAIP International Convention June 6-9 Dallas TX
Region IV Networking Weekend Sept.16-18 Dublin
Annual meeting Nov. 2-3 Canton

The following members were elected, & then were installed by RVP Troup:

2012-2013 Officers & Chairmen-Elect

Council Director-elect: Penny Duer - Buckeye Insurance Women
Custodian of the Funds: Angie Schmitt - Insurance Professionals of Columbus

Elected Chairmen

Awards: Phyliss Sapp - Southern Ohio Insurance Professionals
Membership: Sherry Distelhorst - Insurance Professionals of Columbus Ohio
Public Relations: Nancy Homan - Insurance Women of Toledo
Reg. IV Nominating Committee Delegate: Mary Wildi - Ins. Professionals of Columbus
Reg. IV Nominating Committee Alternate: Mary Kenyon - Ins. Women of Greater Cincy

Ohio Council NAIW Meeting 4/30/11 (click here for photo highlights)

After a welcome from Rhonda Manley, president of Miami Valley Insurance Women the meeting was called to order by Ohio Council director Jennifer Baker. There was a flag presentation by Wolf Den 5, Cub Scout Pack 967 & the National anthem was sung. Membership Chairman Penny Duer welcomed First Timer Joyce Campbell, member of Miami Valley.

Council Director Baker introduced several members & explained that each would be giving a short presentation of the duties of various offices throughout the association from their perspective. Ohio Council & Region IV CWC Speakoff winner Penny Duer, member of Buckeye Insurance Women, told of her experiences in competing at all levels of the association & gave hints on how to handle stage fright. Insurance Professionals of Columbus Ohio President, Heidi Kugler, explained the duties of a local association president & shared a Member Achievement worksheet that her association had updated. Next on the program was Jennifer Baker, Ohio Council Director, who explained duties, travel & responsibilities of the council director. NAIW Int'l Vice Presidet, Susan Holbrook was next on the agenda. Sue discussed the NAIW board meetings & shared a worksheet on how to submit items for discussion/action to be brought before the national board. NAIW, Int'l. President Margaret Wildi discussed her year as national president, shared info about the national convention to be held in June. After each had spoken there was an opportunity to make comments or ask questions.

Keynote speaker was Cheryl Blair, past international president. She talked on the Magic of Membership, the importance of mentoring others, networking & how we are all responsible for creating our own happiness & not being afraid of making changes to achieve it. She also indicated how quickly life can change in the twinkling of an eye.

After a brief recess, Awards Chairman Sandy Fintel presented several awards. These were: Excellence In Action (Association) was awarded to the Insurance Women of Toledo & it was accepted by IWOT President, Sandy Dobbins. Award of Excellence (Individual) was awarded to Deborah Moser of the Buckeye Association. Sandy then presented the Director's Award to Renee Linn of Buckeye Insurance Women. Council Director Baker presented Trudy Wilkin member of Buckeye Insurance Women with a potted plant in honor of her retirement.

After lunch, two NAIW classes, Stress Management & Facts of Life were presented for those who wanted to participate. On Friday evening before the meeting, members enjoyed snacks, playing various games, networking & visiting with other members.

2010 Annual Council Meeting (click here for photo highlights)

On Friday and Saturday, November 5th & 6th, the Ohio Council Annual Meeting and Legislative Day was held in Warren, Ohio hosted by the Insurance Women of Trumbull County. There were 60 members including 14 delegates representing local Ohio associations present. The Council was honored to have Margaret Wildi, International President of NAIW in attendance. The guest speaker was Elizabeth Clark of the Harriet Taylor Upton Association who presented a brief history lesson on local dignitary Harriet Taylor Upton and encouraged members to read the constitution so they can act and vote intelligently.

The following awards were presented by Awards Chair, Sandy Fintel:

2010 Rookie of the Year - Cynthia Matus - Toledo

2010 Claims Professional - Hope Frost - Cincinnati

2010 Insurance Professional - Sherry Distelhorst - Columbus

There were 4 contestants for Communicating With Confidence public speaking competition this year. The winner was Penny Duer member of the Buckeye Association who will be competing against winners of the competition in Kentucky, Indiana & Michigan at the Region IV Conference in March in Lexington, KY. Mary Kenyon of Cincinnati was the runner-up.

Business of the Council was conducted & various committee reports were given.

Election of officers was held for the 2011-2012 year. The following officers were elected & installed by NAIW National President, Margaret Wildi:

Director Elect - Jennifer Baker - Miami Valley
Awards - Sherry Distelhorst - Columbus
Custodian of Funds - Angie Schmitt - Columbus
Membership - Betsy Adams - Scioto Valley
Public Relations - Penny Duer - Buckeye
Region IV Nominating Delegate - Cathy Wolford - Cleveland
Region IV Nominating Alternate - Sandy Fintel -Toledo

Bids were received for upcoming Ohio Council meetings. The May 2011 meeting will be hosted by Miami Valley on April 29 & 30 in Fairfield, OH.

An excellent lunch was enjoyed by the members. There was a hospitality room on Friday evening & members enjoyed tasting various wines and networking.

VARIOUS AWARDS

Recent Winners Announced at November Ohio Council NAIW Meeting

Congratualtions to Barbara Kindel, CISR a member of the Insurance Women of Cleveland who won the 2011 Rookie of the Year Award at the November 5, 2011 meeting in Toledo. The award was based on the candidate’s NAIW/IAIP involvement, her education, her industry and community involvement and a short essay. The eligibility for the award is based on the candidate’s activity in the 24 months after the month and year that the candidate joined NAIW/IAIP. Application must be made within the 12 months following that eligibility period. Barbara works at Burns & Wilcox in Independence as an Assistant Underwriter. Barbara & her husband Glenn live in Parma Ohio and they have two children. She has a Property & Casualty licence & has worked in the industry for more than 15 years. This council award is sponsored by Motorist Insurance and Barbara also received a monetary award and a plaque.

Selected as the 2011 Insurance Professional of the Year was Pat Johnson CPCU, CPIW member of the Insurance Professionals of Columbus, Ohio. Pat has been a member of NAIW/IAIP for more than 36 years and has held many officer & chairman positions in all levels of the association. The award covers the past 5 years and recognizes an individual who has pursued an insurance career and has contributed to the industry through education, community service, creation of industry alliances, and/or legislative activity. This award is sponsored by Motorists Insurance & included a plaque & a monetary award. Candidates must have been employed in the insurance industry for at least ten years, be an active member of NAIW/IAIP for at least five years. Criteria for the award includes NAIW/IAIP involvement, industry involvement, continuing education, community involvement. Pat is currently retired after having been employed 30 years at Insurance Services Office, Inc. where she was an account representative serving ISO's member insurance companies and agents in Ohio, Indiana and West Virginia. Pat has an adult daughter & lives in Columbus, Ohio.
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Awards Given at Region IV Conference

Congratulations to Insurance Professionals of Stark County & to Buckeye Insurance Women for receiving awards for Membership Growth at the Region IV Regional Conference held March 17-20, 2011 in Lexington KY. Stark County was 1st & had 23% growth & Buckeye was 3rd & had 18.75% growth. Buckeye also won the Membership Award from Region IV Vice President Susan Holbrook. The award was given because they had the largest number of new members this year.

Congratulations to Phyliss Sapp, AU, AIS, CPIW for receiving the Mentor of the Year award from Region IV Vice President Susan Holbrook. Phyliss is a long time member of Miami Valley Insurance Women.

CWC: Congratulations to Penny Duer, CPCU, API, CPIW for the Communicating With Confidence Speakoff. Penny is a member of Buckeye Insurance Women & will represent Region IV at the international Convention of NAIW in Las Vegas in June. Candy Jacobs, CIC, AIC, AAI, CPIW - a member of the Insurance Women's Association of Ft. Wayne IN was runner-up. There were three contestants this year-the third contestant was Heidi Lynn, AINS, AIS, KACSR, CPIW a member of Bluegrass Association of Insurance Women, Lexington KY.

Mary Ann Riley Receives Award

Mary Anne Riley, Claims Administrator for Consolidated Insurance Agency, an affiliate of Brower Insurance, was recently presented the " Old Man on the Fence" Award by Westfield Insurance Company.

Mary Anne has been employed in claims for the past 42 years and has held her agent's license since 1973. This award is presented to Westfield Insurance Agents after 25 years of service and was presented to Mary Anne for service from 1985 thru 2010. The "Old Man" award is considered a very prestigious honor as only a few have been presented each year since the company was founded in 1848.

Mary Anne Riley is also serving as an officer of the Springfield Claims Association and an officer of the Insurance Women of West Central Ohio.

Congratulations, Mary Anne!.........................................Back to the Top

Jackie Lindquist Wins in Washington

For the third consecutive year, a Region IV Member has won the NAIW Intl. Professional Underwriter of the Year Award. On June 11, at the National Convention in Washington DC, it was announced that Jackie Lindquist, CPCU, CIC, CISR, AIS, CPIW, DAE, was the 2010 winner. Jackie was chosen from a total of nine regional winners. Jackie is a member of the Insurance Women's Association of Fort Wayne and a dual member of the Buckeye Insurance Women. She is employed as an Assistant Vice President, Underwriting by American Specialty Insurance & Risk Services, Inc. located in Roanoke, Indiana.

The award, which has been sponsored by Foremost Insurance Company for the last three years, was previously won in 2008 by Jennifer Baker, AIM, ARM, CPIW, CPCU, employed by Cincinnati Insurance Company in Fairfield Ohio and is System Deployment Director. Jennifer is a member of Miami Valley Insurance Women.

In 2009, the award was won by Tamre Hileman, CPCU, AU, AIM, AIT, API, CPIW who is employed as Personal Lines Underwriting Manager by Central Mutual Insurance in Van Wert, Ohio. Tam is a member of Buckeye Insurance Women & a dual member of the Insurance Women's Association of Ft. Wayne.

Tamre Hileman was named NAIW International Professional Underwriter of the Year at the NAIW (International) Annual Convention. This award is sponsored by the Foremost Insurance Company. The purpose of the award is to recognize a professional underwriter who has demonstrated superior knowledge of the underwriting field, experienced professional advancement through educational pursuits, demonstrated leadership in the field, and is an active participant in NAIW (International) activities. Criteria for the award are NAIW (International) involvement, continuing education, industry involvement, community involvement and an essay on an industry topic. Tamre was selected from a field of 9 candidates that advanced to the international level from each of NAIW's regional territories.

Tam is a member of the Buckeye Insurance Women and the Fort Wayne Association of Insurance Women. She also is a Founders Circle member of the Insurance Scholarship Foundation of America. Tam is a CPCU and holds associate insurance institute designations in Underwriting, Management, Information Technology, and Personal Lines. She currently serves a Personal Lines Underwriting Manager for the Central insurance Companies in Van Wert Ohio. Tam resides in Rockford, OH with her husband, Mike.

Diane L. Ziemann, HIA, MHP, HIPAAA, HIPAAP, CPIW, DAE, LTCP, EHBA, was named the Arlene G. DeSemone Life/Health Essay Award winner sponsored by NAIW of Rhode Island. The Award recognizes an exceptional life/health professional. Diane is employed by Medical Mutual of Ohio since 1984. She is licensed in Life, Accident, Health and HMO. Diane has been a member of NAIW since 1993, and is currently a Member-at-Large. She is a past member of the Insurance Women of Cleveland, and had served as an officer and on many committees at all levels of NAIW. Diane was awarded an NAIW Insurance Education Foundation Scholarship in 1995. She was named Region IV Rookie of the Year in 1995, Region IV 2002 Insurance Professional of the Year and Ohio Council NAIW Insurance Woman of the Year and AAMGA Award winner in 1998 and 2000. As a member of the Insurance Women of Cleveland she was Insurance Woman of the Year in 1996 & 2004, the Eileen Cleary Education Award winner in 1997 & 2000 and Cleveland Rookie of the Year in 1995. Diane lives in Cleveland, OH with her husband of 40 years, Rick. They have four sons. Diane's hobbies include crocheting, knitting, scrapbooking and reading.

Local Insurance Association Awards Scholarships

Celina, OH/USA – Leslie Bergman, president of the Grand Lake Area Insurance Women, recently announced that the organization awarded $500 scholarships to two local high school seniors. The award receipts were Megan Schaefer, (Maria Stein, OH) and Renee Kanney, (Coldwater, OH). Megan is the daughter of Dave and Cheryl Schaefer and plans to attend Miami University in the fall. Renee is the daughter of Bill and Kathy Kanney and intends to start with the University of Dayton next year. The scholarships were presented to the recipients during the organization's annual banquet. During the awards presentation, the new officers for the upcoming year were also recognized. The new officers to accept posts were: President, Leslie Bergman, President-elect, Connie Bishop; Laura Nieport, Secretary; Pauline Braun; and Treasurer, Joan Fox.

..........L to R: Laura Nieport, Megan Schaefer and Leslie Bergman

..........L to R: Laura Nieport, Renee Kanney and Leslie Bergman

2009 Insurance Professional of the Year: Sandy Fintel, CISR, CPIW is a member of Insurance Women of Toledo. Sandy is employed as an Account Executive by Huntington Insurance. Sandy enjoys estate sales, reading, travel, spending time with family and NAIW friends. She encourages, "Members get involved no matter what you do. You can make a difference in touching other people's lives, it is very fulfilling, and makes one feel good with the accomplishments made." Sandy is a past President of IWOT, has chaired many local committees and was elected in November as Ohio Council 2010 Awards Chairman.

2009 Rookie of the Year: Michelle Ackerman, API, AIS. Michelle is a member of the Insurance Professionals of Columbus Ohio. She is employed by State Auto Insurance for 3 years as a Personal Lines Underwriter. Michelle has been a member of IPOCO for two years and is currently serving as Safety Chairman.

IPOCO Awards

The Insurance Professionals of Columbus Ohio (IPOCO) presented several association awards at their May 7th dinner meeting in honor of NAIW week. NAIW Week began as National Insurance Women’s Day and was first celebrated May 10, 1957 to recognize "the fine contributions that insurance women are making to our industry." The week beginning the third Sunday in May has traditionally been set aside each year to applaud men and women in the insurance industry and to recognize their considerable achievements. NAIW (International) is a trade association open to professional women and men in the insurance and risk management industries.

Kon Chittavong, Business Systems Analyst at State Auto Insurance, received the 2009 IPOCO Rookie of the Year award. The requirements of this award are being a member of IPOCO for less than two years and contributing to IPOCO and NAIW as well as the insurance industry.

Stacey Nichols, Claims Central Senior Specialist at State Auto Insurance, received the 2009 IPOCO Claims Professional of the Year award. The requirements for this award are an IPOCO member who has contributed to IPOCO and NAIW as well as their respective claims department.

Kim Bailey, Manager Shared Business Application at State Auto Insurance, received the 2009 IPOCO Insurance Associate of the Year award. Associate of the Year is awarded to a person who is not a member of NAIW. Kim was nominated by Heidi Kugler because he is supportive of the IPOCO members that report to him and encourages them to become involved active members to grow, learn leadership skills, & utilize the networking opportunities that IPOCO/NAIW offer.

Elaine Fagan-Moore, Claims Supervisor at Grange Insurance, received the 2009 IPOCO Insurance Professional award. The requirements for this award are an IPOCO member who has contributed to IPOCO and NAIW as well at the insurance industry.

Congratulations to Kon, Stacey, Kim, and Elaine for their well deserved awards.

IPOCO Winners for 2009
(L to R) Rookie of the Year- Kon Chittavong, Claims Professional of the Year- Stacy Nichols
Insurance Associate of the Year- Kim Bailey

IPOCO 2009 Insurance Professional of the Year
Elaine Fagan-Moore

NAIW Appreciation Dinner

At their May 2009 NAIW Appreciation Dinner, the Grand Lake Association of Insurance Women awarded scholarships to two deserving high school seniors. Winners are Amanda Newlove, St. Mary's High School and Alyssa Mastin, Celina High School. Each received a $500 check to help with upcoming college expenses.

Amanda Newlove, St. Mary's High School
L to R: Lori Hines, President, Amanda Newlove, Scholarship Recipient
and Leslie Bergman, Scholarship Chair


Alyssa Mastin, Celina High School
L to R: Lori Hines, President, Alyssa Mastin, Scholarship Recipient
and Leslie Bergman, Scholarship Chair

Region IV Conference

Congratulations to Ohio members who won Awards or were elected at the recent Region IV Conference in Troy Michigan.

Professional Underwriter of the Year - Tamre Hileman, AIM, AIT, API, AU, CPCU, CPIW, DAE- Buckeye Insurance Women

Risk Professional of the Year - Julie Williams Fisher, CPIW - Buckeye Insurance Women

Triangle Award: Loyalty - Pat Johnson, CPCU, CPIW-Ins. Professionals Of Columbus OH

Delegate to National Nominating Committee - Betsy Adams, AU, CPIW, DAE- Scioto Valley Assoc.

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May 1-2, 2009 Ohio Council Meeting

Photo Highlights

The Ohio Council Education Meeting was held in Fairborn, hosted by Insurance Women of West Central Ohio. Since many people arrived on Friday, a NAIW class on Time Management was taught by Vikki Angelo, AIC, ITP, Insurance Professionals of Columbus Ohio. A hospitality room was provided, with members enjoying networking opportunities, various games & a variety of snack foods. Their was a silent auction conducted with the funds to be added to the Council treasury. A surprise bridal shower was held for Shauna Leiberman.

After opening ceremonies on May 2, guest speakers were the focus of the morning agenda. First speaker was Dennis Thomas, Investigator, Special Investigations Unit, Motorists Insurance Company, Columbus. Mr. Thomas pointed out several interesting cases that he & his department have handled. He spoke on how investigations are conducted not to catch those who try to defraud insurance companies, but to arrive at the truth of what really happened. He also provided several examples of how falsified information can be obtained from the internet.

The second speaker was Kevin Duffin, CLU, Retirement Plan Specialist & Principal, Brower Insurance Agency, Dayton. Mr. Duffin pointed out ways to invest 401-K funds to diversify your portfolio & to minimize loses in times when the stock market is going through a down cycle as it has been in recent months. He provided several handouts with good information for people experienced in investing & for newer investors with less experience.

Susan Shaw, Region IV Vice President, conducted the installation of officers for the 2009-2010 term. The new officers are:

Council Director - Betsy Adams, AU, CPIW (second term)
Awards: Angie Schmitt, CPIW
Custodian of Funds: Patsy Matthews, AIC, API, CPIW
Membership: Irita Lauerman
Programs/Public Relations: Sherry Distelhorst, AU, AAM, AIT, AIS, CPIW

After lunch, the business meeting was conducted by Council Director Betsy Adams, AU, CPIW. First time attendees were recognized. Committee chairs gave reports. Cathy Wolford reported that there is still a lot of interest in TIKE (Toddler Information Kept for Emergencies) stickers and that these are still available at no cost from Ohio Insurance Institute. Also there is a Spanish language version available. Membership Chair Irita Lauerman reported that she is still working in three areas with possible interest in forming new associations.

Awards Chair Vikki Angelo, AIC, ITP presented awards to the following to Ohio members who won awards for the current year.
Congratulations to:

AAMGA Award - Pat Johnson, CPCU, CPIW - Ins. Professionals Of Columbus OH

Director's Award - Angie Schmitt, CPIW - Ins. Professionals Of Columbus OH

Excellence In Action: Individual - Susan Shaw, CPIW - Insurance Women of Akron

Excellence In Action: Association - Buckeye Insurance Women

The meeting concluded with door prizes.

Lillian Lane Scholarship

The Lillian Lane Scholarship is awarded annually each spring by the Insurance Professionals of Columbus, Ohio to a student for the study of Risk Management and Insurance, Actuarial Science, or Business with insurance related content. This year's recipient is Kendra Liggit. The scholarship was announced at Ohio Insurance Education Day on April 1st in Columbus and Kendra was not able to attend. The scholarship was in the amount of $500.00. Kendra is a sophomore majoring in actuarial science at Ohio State University, Lima campus.

The IPOCO Scholarship Fund was established in memory of Lillian Lane, who was a member of Insurance Professionals of Columbus from 1942-2003. The Insurance Professionals of Columbus is a local association affiliated with the National Association of Insurance Women (NAIW, Int'l), which is headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma. NAIW is dedicated to the development of leaders in the insurance industry.

Presenting the award on behalf of the Insurance Professionals of Columbus, Ohio is Tam Hileman, past regional vice president of NAIW.

Congratulations to the following Awards winners which were given at the 2008 Annual Ohio Council Meeting held in Cleveland. Both are from the Insurance Women of Toledo association.

Rookie of the Year: Kate Becker
Insurance Woman of the Year: Beverly Smith, CPIW

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Buckeye Insurance Women Make Salvation Army Donation

Buckeye Insurance Women, a chapter of the National Association of Insurance Women, Intl. (NAIW), presented The Salvation Army with checks totaling $1,850 to be divided among the five counties — Van Wert, Paulding, Putnam, Allen and Mercer which represent the counties where Buckeye members live. The funds were made possible from fundraisers held throughout the year by Buckeye members.

Grand Lake Chapter of NAIW Raises Funds through Charity Auction

Celina, OH/USA – Leslie Wobler, president of the Grand Lake Chapter of the National Association of Insurance Women (NAIW), recently announced that organization raised approximately $1,500 through its annual charity raffle and luncheon. Proceeds from the activity will go toward two college scholarships for local students.

NAIW Members Joan Fox, Pauline Braun & Judy Dammeyer sell extra lunch & raffle tickets to arriving guests.

Books for Veterans

The members of Insurance Professionals of Columbus Ohio (IPOCO) recently donated three (3) large boxes of books to the military veterans. Margaret Wildi and Karen Lawson delivered the boxes of books to the Chalmers P. Wylie VA Ambulatory Care Center in Columbus. The mission of the Veterans Healthcare System is to serve the needs of America’s veterans by providing primary care, specialized care, and related medical and social support services. The people who accepted the book donations were very appreciative. They take any type books (fiction, nonfiction, hard back or paperback) as well as current magazines.

Volunteering at the Mid-Ohio Food Bank

On April 7, four of IPOCO members spent time at the Mid-Ohio Food Bank volunteering their time to load boxes of food items for senior citizens. Volunteers pictured below are Mary Wildi, Sherry Distelhorst, Margaret Wildi and Kon Chittavong.

The Mid-Ohio Foodbank is dedicated to feeding hungry people by collecting and distributing food and grocery products, educating the community about hunger, advocating for hunger-relief programs, and collaborating with others who address basic human needs.

The Mid-Ohio Foodbank has a partnership with more than 500 partner agencies across their 20 county service area. It’s the food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, after-school programs, and senior housing sites that ensure the food they deliver gets to the people who need it most. And, their impact is incredible: providing more than 47,000 meals each day!

You can learn more about the Foodbank by checking them out on Facebook or Twitter or visiting their website www.midohiofoodbank.org.

Christmas Bazaar for Homeless Families Foundation

The Insurance Professionals of Columbus Ohio held a Christmas Bazaar at their December dinner meeting at the Florentine Restaurant. Members brought in crafts, cookies, candy, holiday food items & other goodies which were sold to raise money for the Homeless Families Foundation in Columbus. Also members donated & brought in hats, coats and blankets, There was a Mystery Gifts auction with guest auctioneer, Bryan Fry, Special Special Events Manager from Grange Insurance, who added a special sense of humor and a real commitment to getting more money for "the kids". A good time was enjoyed by all in attendance in competing to win the bid for the gifts which were sometimes a "Wow!" and sometimes "a dud"! Total amount raised was $1,100 which is believed to be a record for any fundraising event of this type. According to a letter from HFF Director, Adrienne Corbett, the more than 60 families (including 220 children) served by HFF benefited much from IPOCO"S generous donations.

Communities for Kids

Kathy Denny on behalf of Buckeye Insurance Women recently delivered a check to the Paulding County Department of Job and Family Services. Unfortunately due to state funding cuts, the department was unable to provide the School Clothing and School Fee program this year. So an organization called Communities for Kids formed to help bridge the gap of the ever growing budget cuts of other organizations. This organization was suggested by the Sheriff’s Department because Paulding County does not have local D.A.R.E. program

The $240 check was presented to Kris Stahlkamp who is the representative for this committee. Approximately 850 school children from the ages of 5-19 will benefit through this project in 2009-2010 in Paulding County. The project, just recently formed, is a group of concerned citizens, under the direction of the Paulding County Department of Job and Family Services. They collect school supplies for those who need help attaining those materials. Students in the following areas are reached by this group: Paulding, Oakwood, Grover Hill, Payne, and Antwerp, Ohio.

Buckeye Insurance Women Donates for DARE

The Buckeye Insurance Women recently donated $240 to both the Allen County Sheriff’s Department and the Van Wert County Sheriff’s Department for their community service project in 2009. The funds will be used by the Sheriff's' Departments for their DARE program. The Drug Abuse Resistance Education program gives fifth grade students nine weeks of classroom lessons on the dangers of taking drugs. It teaches them skills to resist negative peer pressure and avoid drugs. Eighty-percent of America’s schools and forty-four countries around the world have active DARE programs. They are to be congratulated for assisting financially in their communities with this worthy cause.

Grand Lake Area Chapter Raises $1400 for Charity

The Grand Lake Area Chapter of NAIW, Int'l hosted a Luncheon Auction in February and raised approximately $1,480. Members donated all the auction prizes and food items for the luncheon. Proceeds from the event will support the chapter's college scholarship program for local high school seniors.

Cathy Wolford, President of Ins. Women of Cleveland delivered 15 large boxes of non-perishable food to the Harvest for Hunger and $100 cash as a result of a collection done as part of the annual Ohio Council NAIW meeting. The Insurance Women of Cleveland hosted the event. The food & cash were collected from NAIW members from associations around the state. This was the first time the Ohio Council participated in an event of this nature.

The Insurance Women of West Central hosted a speaker from Adventures For Wish Kids at their April meeting. There are chapters of AFWK in Cincinnati, Columbus, & Dayton. Their website is: www.afwkids.org. This group strives to enrich the lives of children with life threatening illnesses with year-round supportive group activities at some amazing fun-filled places like Dayton Bombers Hockey, King's Island, WSU Basketball games, auto races, The Nutcracker Ballet & other entertainment programs. This program provides support, hope & lasting memories for more than 325 Dayton area children & their families after The Special Wishes have been granted. The Insurance Women of West Central made a $150 donation to AFW Kids and plan to volunteer and/or attend future outings with the Wish Kids. Together they will make life an...Adventure for Wish Kids.

The Insurance Professionals of Columbus OH recently provided dinner for approximately 60 people staying at Ronald McDonald House while their children are patients in Nationwide Children's Hospital. At the meeting which followed the dinner they were given an update on the new Ronald McDonald house being built across the street from the hospital. Chairman Diane Felder presented a check for $1000 which was raised at their annual Holiday Bazaar. These funds will be used to purchase needed items. IPOCO has been providing monetary support, collecting personal care items, soda tabs, books & other needed items to Ronald McDonald House for many years.

The Insurance Women of Akron have selected NEADS for their annual community service project. NEADS (Dogs For Deaf and Disabled Americans), is a non-profit organization established in 1976 to train and provide rescued dogs and donated puppies to assist people who are deaf or physically disabled in leading more independent lives at work, at home and at school. NEADS trains all breeds and mixed breeds of dogs to help people who are deaf or physically disabled live more independently. Most hearing dogs are rescued from animal shelters throughout New England.

Dogs trained to be service dogs are donated as puppies by breeders throughout the country. Most service dogs are Golden or Labrador retrievers, however, many other breeds are also suitable. Any dog "with the right stuff" can partner with a person to provide independence and companionship by reducing physical and social barriers. These assistance dogs become an extension of their owners and bring security, freedom, independence and relief from social isolation to their human partners. Members of the Akron association will be donating funds for NEADS at their annual Christmas meeting. There will also be a demonstration of how these dogs assist their masters who depend on them.

The Insurance Women of Cleveland have undertaken a project to collect paperbacks, hardcover books and magazines for two area nursing homes, Greenbrier Health Care Center & Aristocrat Berea. This will be an ongoing Literacy project for the Cleveland association that will continue throughout the coming year.

Since the 1970’s, the Insurance Women of Greater Cincinnati have been playing Bingo at the Little Sisters of the Poor. Members not only play Bingo with the residents there, but also donate prizes to the winners. It is a great way to enjoy an evening out doing something worthwhile for the community.

Another project that the Cincinnati association recently contributed to is “Project Lifesaver” which is a rapid response partnership with law enforcement aiding in the location victims of Alzheimer’s, Autism & Down’s Syndrome who sometimes wander away from home or school and get lost. Tracking bracelets with a range of one and a half miles are issued to victims and the Butler County Sheriff has purchased two tracking locator receivers and are hoping to purchase two more. If a person wearing a bracelet wanders away, a family member can notify the sheriff’s department and they can use the locator receivers to quickly locate the lost person. Cost of one bracelet is $285.

The Professional Insurance Women of Stark County are supporting "Being His Hands & Heart for the Hungry" soup kitchen with food & supplies donations. Also needed are all sizes of warm clothing including hats, gloves, scarves. Items are taken to monthly meetings, and cash donations are appreciated. Members can also volunteer to help with meal set-up, serving or clean-up. This outreach program is especially appreciated by those who are in need during upcoming holiday season and the cold winter months which follow.

The Insurance Women of Toledo has chosen Rusty’s House to be their focus charity this year. This non-profit organization is dedicated to helping young people recover from addictions. The founders of Rusty's House know the pain that a young persons’s addiction can bring to the teen and their loved ones. They are working to assist families in finding the help they need. They have a wish list for the following items: postage stamps, envelopes, printer paper, beverages (pop/water), plates, napkins, cups, tickets to fun events for kids, gift cards to Kroger, Meijer, Sam's, etc; gasoline gift cards such as BP, Speedway, etc., and Office Max gift cards. Members are encouraged to bring items from the wish list to association meetings.

EDUCATION

Buckeye Insurance Women: Congratulations to completers of the NAIW course-ABC’s of Time Management. Michele Hirsch, Education Chair, recently presented certificates to Jane Deken, Pam Waltmire, Tam Hileman, Claudia Pontius, Marcella Shinabery, Penny Duer, Deb Moser, Michele Hirsch, Julie Williams-Fisher, Carol Giesken, Renee Linn and Louise Pohlman.

Ohio Director of Insurance Visits Celina

The Grand Lake Area Chapter of the National Association of Insurance Women welcomed Mary Jo Hudson, Director of the Ohio Department of Insurance, to Celina on Oct. 17, 2008. Hudson visited the area and spoke to a crowd of over 100 professionals at Celina Insurance Group.

During her speech, Hudson addressed the current climate of the insurance industry, with an emphasis on Ohio’s recent wind storms and the tumultuous AIG fallout. The Director attributed AIG’s downward spiral to poor investments by its parent company. Hudson was confident that AIG’s insurance company subsidiaries, many of which service policyholders in Ohio, are stable and will continue to pay claims for insureds.

Hudson, a native of St. Mary's, said she was visiting her parents along Grand Lake when the windstorms hit a few weeks ago. At the time, she had no idea of the magnitude of the situation, but she is been pleased with how the industry has handled the abundance of recent claims.

“Western Ohio has a good tradition of sustaining strong, mutual insurance companies,” stated Hudson. “The Property and Casualty industry is fairly quiet compared to other areas of insurance, and that’s not a bad thing.”

Director Hudson’s visit was hosted by the Grand Lake Area Chapter of the National Assoc. of Ins. Women (NAIW). The group’s mission is to build its members’ understanding of the insurance industry & foster each member’s professional growth. In addition to events that educate members on industry topics, the organization promotes community involvement & helps local philanthropic causes. After the presentation, attendees & members were able to speak with Director Hudson.

(L to R): Trisha Harlamert, Sue Swartz, Connie Bishop, Lori Hines-Chapter President.
Director Mary Jo Hudson, Laura Nieport, Heather Zehringer, Heidi Moorman

MOVING ON & MOVING UP

Congratulations to Louise Pohlman of Buckeye Insurance Women for earning her DAE Designation.

Jennifer Baker, member of Miami Valley Insurance Women recently won the NAIW International Underwriter of the Year award at the national convention held in Scottsdale AZ. Jennifer is a Senior Underwriting Manager and Team Leader in Commercial Lines for The Cincinnati Insurance Companies in Fairfield, Ohio. She has been an underwriter for 13 years and a team leader for 7 years. Jennifer manages a team of 17 associates, handling 42 agencies in VA and WV. She is also a general liability coverage specialist and a contractor/risk transfer specialist. Criteria for winning the award includes winning the Region IV Underwriter of the Year which Jennifer won in March at the Region IV Conference in Columbus. One winner from each of the nine regions of NAIW competed at the National level. Jennifer provided her insurance & NAIW experience, a list of classes taken/taught, and she wrote an essay which addressed questions they asked such as: 3 things I am most proud of, my goals, a current issue I feel is facing new underwriters today. Congratulations, Jennifer, you are the Best of the Best!

Margaret Wildi, member of Insurance Professionals of Columbus OH was elected Vice President of NAIW International at their recent Convention in Scottsdale, AZ. Margaret has served the past year as NAIW Secretary and has served as an officer or chairman at all levels of NAIW, including local, state and regional levels. Margaret is an Assistant Vice President for Grange Insurance Companies and is very active in her community.

NEW DESIGNATIONS

New Designations Earned by 3 Members of Buckeye Ins. Women

Wendy Golden has recently completed two education programs, both the Associate in Insurance Services (AIS) and the Associate in General Insurance (AINS). Wendy is one of the newest members of the Buckeye Chapter of Insurance Women.

Karen Schmid earned the Associate in General Insurance (AINS).

Julie Williams-Fisher earned the Associate in General Insurance (AINS).

Congratulations, ladies. ...............................................Back to the Top

Jeannine Westlock (Cleveland) received The Employee Healthcare Benefit Associate (EHBA) in May. The EHBA is offered by AHIP and focuses on the planning of employee benefits to employers & employees. Congratulations, Jeannine!

Congratulations to Karen Lawson of Insurance Professionals of Columbus OH. Karen recently received her CISR designation.

Jennifer Baker of the Miami Valley Insurance Women and Penny Duer, Tamre Hileman, Michelle Mills and Melissa Hilvers of the Buckeye Association of Insurance Women recently earned their CPCU Designation. Congratulations, Ladies. We know the amount of hard work, long hours of study, and dedication it takes to earn this coveted designation!

Lorali Todd, member of the Buckeye Association of Insurance Women recently earned an Associate in Management. Congratulations on achieving this new designation.

NEW OFFICERS

Taffy Troup Elected

At the Region IV of NAIW Conference held in Lexington On March 17-20, 2011, Taffy Troup, AIS,CPIW, DAE was elected Region IV Vice President for the 2011-2012 term. She will take office effective July 1, 2011.

Taffy is a member of the Insurance Women's Association of Fort Wayne, IN & a dual member of The Buckeye Insurance Women (Van Wert OH area). Taffy has served in various officer, chairman, committee member in positions at the local, state, regional, & international levels & has been a member since 1992. She lives in Roanoke, IN & is employed by Joseph Decuis as a risk manager.

2010-2011 Officers

Council Director: Jennifer Baker (Miami Valley Insurance Women)

Delegate to Region IV National Nominating Committee: Jeannie Hlas (Professional Insurance Women of Stark County)

Alternate to Region IV Nominating Committee: Angie Schmitt (Insurance Professionals of Columbus Ohio)

Awards Chairman: Sandy Fintel (Insurance Women of Toledo)

Public Relations Committee Chairman: Sherry Distelhorst (Insurance Professionals of Columbus Ohio)

Membership Development Committee: Penny Duer (Buckeye Insurance Women)

Funds Custodian: Patsy Matthews (Ins. Women of West Central Ohio)

Website: Pat Johnson (Ins. Professionals Of Columbus OH)

Nominating: Vikki Angelo (Ins. Professionals Of Columbus OH)

SAFETY

Police & Fire Department Special Guests

For their April meeting, The Insurance Professionals of Columbus Ohio (IPOCO) had two speakers. The first speaker was Assistant Fire Chief, Karry Ellis, Columbus Fire Department. Chief Ellis spoke on current happenings in the Columbus Fire Department & the impact that the economy is making & will continue to make on staffing & replacement officers. He also thanked IPOCO for their continuing support of the Officer of the month & for their donation to the Fire Department memorial fund.

Chief Walter Distelweig, Columbus Police Department, spoke on current staffing & that they hope to have two classes for new officers this year due to retirements & attrition. He thanked IPOCO for their support of the police Department officer of the month recognition & for the ongoing donation of safety coloring books which officers take to elementary schools when they visit.

IPOCO has been presenting Safety Awards to 5 police officers & 5 police officers each year since November 9, 1970. The recipients are chosen by their peers for their knowledge, skill, performance & dedication to their job which can be very stressful but is a needed service to the community. Also awards are given to spouses (or significant others) for their support to the officers.

Beginning in 1969, the Insurance Professionals of Columbus OH has given Safety Awards to Columbus police officers and firefighters. Each year, five police officer awards and five firefighter awards are given to men & women who are nominated and selected by their superior officers & peers. Criteria for selection is not based solely on bravery but also includes overall excellence in job performance, service, cooperation, and dependability...basically awarded to those officers who do an all-around superior job.

Each year for the past 37 years, beginning in September and alternating between the Police Department and the Fire Department, the award recipient is given a recognition certificate along with a certificate of recognition to their personal support person, who are invited to the recognition of their family member. This support person can be spouse, parents, children or significant other. In April at the IWOCO Safety Banquet, the Columbus Police and Fire Chiefs (or their representatives) are given a donation in honor for the current year's award recipients. These funds are used to buy safety activity coloring books for police officers to present to children during school visits. The donation to the Columbus Fire Department is used for Fire Prevention education materials which are distributed to children and other members of the community.