tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41365677988023498612024-03-13T09:02:18.435-07:00Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-50815897688913025042011-05-06T11:57:00.000-07:002011-05-06T11:59:56.065-07:00New York Workers Compensation Maximum BenefitBeginning July 1, 2010, the maximum weekly benefit rate for workers' compensation is two-thirds of the New York State average weekly wage for the previous calendar year, as determined by the New York State Department of Labor. Workers' Compensation Law §§ 2(16); 15(6). On March 31, 2011, the Department of Labor reported to the Superintendent of Insurance that the New York State average weekly wage for 2010 was $1,159.44. Accordingly, for workers' compensation claims with dates of accident or dates of disablement during the period from July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2012, the maximum weekly benefit rate will be $772.96.Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-35842078810431521712011-03-09T08:29:00.000-08:002011-03-09T08:32:45.302-08:00HF&C Consultants in Washington, DC!<div align="center"><strong>Haylor, Freyer & Coon Consultants Attend NAHU’s Capitol Conference<br />It’s a New World: Health Reform Hits Home<br /></strong><br /><br />(Syracuse, NY) – Michael Grinnell, Kirsten Tudman and Rock Schneider of Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc. attended the National Association of Health Underwriters (NAHU) twenty-first annual Capitol Conference on February 14-16 in Washington, DC. Grinnell, Tudman and Schneider met with local Congress representatives to discuss the specific impacts of the health care reform law as written on behalf of Upstate New York employers.<br /><br />They visited with Representative Bill Owens for New York’s 23rd congressional district, Representative Richard Hanna from New York’s 24th congressional district, Representative Ann Marie Buerkle for New York’s 25th congressional district and with Abe Hiatt, Legislative Correspondent, from Senator Kirsten Gillibrand’s office. Grinnell and Tudman are active NAHU members and Schneider serves as the Membership Chair of the Greater Central New York Association of Health Underwriters Board of Directors.<br /><br />Capitol Conference’s guest speakers included key Congressional leaders from both sides of the aisle charged with implementing the new health care reform law. Other presentations addressed significant market reforms brought about by health care reform, the scope and structure of state-based exchanges, and how businesses need to adapt to the new market reality.<br /><br />Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc. is one of the largest independent insurance agencies in the US, employing over 200 insurance professionals. HF&C can service the needs of various size employer groups ranging from 2 to 15,000+ employees. HF&C can customize Employee Benefit Programs to meet their client’s specific business needs to attract and maintain quality employees. For more information, please call Rock Schneider at (315) 703.3217 or rschneider@haylor.com.</div>Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-20462302061447882972010-10-13T07:22:00.000-07:002010-10-13T07:28:36.446-07:00Health Care Reform Questions #3<strong>How do I keep my grandfathered group plan?</strong><br /><br />Employer groups can keep their current policy on a grandfathered basis only if plan changes made are to add or delete new employees or new dependents. Another exception is made for employers that have scheduled plan changes as a result of a collective bargaining agreement.<br /><br /><strong>When will the elimination of lifetime limits be in force? Does this apply to self-insured groups?</strong><br /><br />Lifetime limits on the dollar value of essential benefits is prohibited by current law beginning plan years after September 23, 2010. This applies to all fully insured, self-insured, and individual plans.<br /><br /><strong>If an employer offers more than one health plan, on which plan is the voucher based?</strong><br /><br />Lifetime limits on the dollar value of essential benefits is prohibited by current law beginning plan years after September 23, 2010. This applies to all fully insured, self-insured, and individual plans.<br /><br /><strong>Does the auto enroll apply to employees only?</strong><br /><strong></strong><br />Groups of more than 200 full-time employees are required to automatically enroll employees as they become eligible in a health care plan and provide notice of the opportunity to opt-out of such coverage if they choose to do so.<br /><br />If you have any questions, please fee free to contact Mike Grinnell, Vice President of Employee Benefits, at any time. Mike's phone number is 315-453-2168. His e-mail address is mgrinnell@haylor.com.<br /><strong></strong>Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-76812053962224782092010-08-26T07:51:00.000-07:002010-08-26T07:57:54.403-07:00Health Care Reform Answers, Part 2Below Mike Grinnell, HF&C's Vice President of Group Benefits, answers more questions asked during a recent seminar on the new Health Care Reform:
<br />
<br /><a name="LETTER.BLOCK3"><strong>When does the over the counter drug change become effective?
<br /></strong>
<br />Beginning in 2011, Over The Counter (OTC) drugs will no longer be reimbursable under HSA's, medical FSA's, HRA's, and Archer MSA's unless they are prescribed by a doctor.<a name="LETTER.BLOCK4">
<br /></a>
<br /><strong>Will the Reform Bill effect my FSA contributions?
<br /></strong>
<br />Yes. Beginning in 2011, the amount of contributions to health FSA's is limited to $2500 per year.
<br />
<br /><strong>When does the reporting of health benefits on the W-2's begin?
<br /></strong>
<br />Employers are required to start reporting the aggregate cost of employer-sponsored health benefits payable during the taxable years beginning after December 31, 2010.<a name="LETTER.BLOCK6">
<br /></a>
<br /><strong>What is the CLASS Act?
<br /></strong>
<br />Beginning January 1, 2011 the Community Living Assistant Services and Supports (CLASS) Act states that all employers would be required to enroll employees in a new national public long-term care program, unless the employee elects to opt out.
<br />
<br />If you have any questions please feel free to contact Mike at 315-451-1500 or mgrinnell@haylor.com.
<br />Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-30944234636937183812010-08-23T14:14:00.000-07:002010-08-23T14:26:53.386-07:00Your Health Care Reform Questions Answered<span style="color:#000000;">Below Mike Grinnell, HF&C's Vice President of Group Benefits, answers several questions that were asked during a recent seminar on the new Health Care Reform:
<br />
<br /></span><a name="LETTER.BLOCK3"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>What does auto enroll mean?</strong>
<br />
<br />Employers with more than 200 full-time employees and that offer enrollment in one or more health benefit plans are required to automatically enroll new full-time employees in a health benefits plan after enabling regulations are released. Furthermore, the automatic enrollment must include adequate notice to the employee of the right to opt out of coverage. </span><a name="LETTER.BLOCK4">
<br /></a>
<br /><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Auto enroll: Is there an opt out period?
<br /></strong>
<br />Yes, enrollment must include adequate notice to the employee of the right to opt out of the coverage </span><a name="LETTER.BLOCK5">
<br /></a>
<br /><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Are the immunizations in the prevention services 100% covered for adults as well as children?
<br /></strong>
<br />Child and adult immunizations recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention must be covered</span><a name="LETTER.BLOCK6"><span style="color:#000000;">
<br /></span></a>
<br /><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Are the considerations the same for profit and not-for-profit?
<br /></strong>
<br />Yes, both for profit and not-for-profit organizations are subject to Health Care Reform. </span>
<br /><span style="color:#000000;">
<br /><strong>If you have any questions please feel free to contact Mike at any time at 315-451-1500 or mgrinnell@haylor.com</strong></span>
<br />Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-70179967924966053152010-07-06T13:20:00.000-07:002010-07-06T13:23:54.958-07:00Summer SafetyMake sure you are adequately insured for all of your Summer Social Events! Read an article published by the Independent Insurance Agents of America by <a href="http://www.iiaba.net/na/02_News/02_PressRelease/NA20100629120642?ContentPreference=NA&ActiveState=0&ContentLevel1=NEWS&ContentLevel2=NEWSPRESS&ContentLevel3=&ActiveTab=NA&StartRow=0">Clicking Here! </a>Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-69812160315321939932010-05-05T14:34:00.000-07:002010-05-06T14:45:28.691-07:00Health Reform Seminar<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w8EHlspbeZw/S-M4Z21xcfI/AAAAAAAAAB0/lkroRA_zl10/s1600/BSK+seminar+lighter.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468276389426852338" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w8EHlspbeZw/S-M4Z21xcfI/AAAAAAAAAB0/lkroRA_zl10/s320/BSK+seminar+lighter.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w8EHlspbeZw/S-Hl-uzowxI/AAAAAAAAABs/x6dRqbpTeGw/s1600/BSK+seminar+002.jpg"></a><br />On May 4th 2010, Haylor Freyer & Coon, Bond Schoeneck & King along with MACNY sponsored a Health Reform Seminar that was attended by 220 local Business Representatives. Mike Grinnell, HF&C VP of Group Benefits, delivered a detailed overview of what employers need to consider as the new Federal Health Reform plan is put into effect.<br /><br />To view a copy of Mike's presentation click the following link: <a href="http://www.haylor.com/blog/healthreform.pdf">http://www.haylor.com/blog/healthreform.pdf</a></div>Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-26592314144325268802010-04-23T08:55:00.000-07:002010-04-23T09:03:27.100-07:00Health Care Reform Conference on 5/4/10Date: May 04, 2010<br /><br />Time: 8:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.<br /><br />Location: Holiday Inn Syracuse/Liverpool, 441 Electronics Parkway, Liverpool, NY<br /><br />Registration Fee: BS&K/HF&C Clients and MACNY Members: $25 per person; General Public: $35 per person Description<br /><br />For more information go to:<br /><a href="http://www.bsk.com/archives/detail.cfm?archive=presentation&ID=712">http://www.bsk.com/archives/detail.cfm?archive=presentation&ID=712</a>Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-52693325021674775812010-03-22T05:14:00.000-07:002010-03-22T05:24:17.958-07:00The "River Rat Triathlon" in Clayton, NY!On August 29th, 2010 the Thousand Islands Young Leaders (TIYLO) is hosting a Triathlon to begin in Centennial Park in the Village of Clayton, NY. Haylor, Freyer & Coon is a Bronze Sponsor of the event.<br /><br />The TIYLO has two main purposes: to work together for the betterment of the communities in the 1000 Islands region and for the personal development of the young leaders and community members who reside there.<br /><br />Good Luck to all of the Tri-Atheletes!!!Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-41955112113205292372010-03-18T14:55:00.000-07:002010-03-18T15:00:48.368-07:00Claim Update - Falling Trees!If a tree from your neighbor's yard falls onto your home, you may actually be able to recover the cost of your damages from their insurance policy, if the neighbor has been <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">negligent</span> in their maintenance of the Tree. BUT, in order to prevent a delay in getting the repairs complete, it is always best to turn the claim into your <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Homeowner's</span> Insurance Company. Once they pay you to get your home fixed, they will pursue your neighbor's insurance if negligence was the cause.Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-55337483619588964922010-03-03T12:24:00.000-08:002010-03-03T12:28:28.316-08:00Carthage Winterfest 2010!Recently <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Haylor</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Freyer</span> & Coon, Inc. was a Silver Sponsor of the 2010 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Winterfest</span> in Carthage, NY. The Carthage Area Chamber of Commerce puts on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Winterfest</span> and recently sent out a big THANK YOU to all of the Sponsors saying "Their generous contribution to the even allowed us to provide a great day of snowy, family fun for the who community. This great Carthage Area tradition continues!Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-44201894985083072382010-02-25T07:55:00.000-08:002010-02-25T07:59:29.235-08:00ISO Quality System - MACNY CouncilMACNY Quality Professionals Council<br />Topic - Software: Quality Applications<br />Date: March 12, 2010<br />Location: MACNY HeadquartersCouncil Meetings<br /><br />Join the Quality Professionals Council for…… Software: Quality Applications<br /><br />Please hold the date - Friday, March 12, 2010 - for the next Quality Professionals Council meeting. It will be held at MACNY Headquarters. This meeting will focus on two main software applications for Quality Management Systems: will discuss the Quality Software packages that companies are using to support their Quality Management System.<br /><br />Attendees should come to the meeting with a list of packages that they use and to discuss their experience with the software. Bill Butler of Haylor, Freyer & Coon will lead the discussion.<br /><br />Will also discuss Software Quality in regards to planning, developing, qualifying and deploying software.<br /><br />The speakers will be from Syracuse Research Corporation and Sensis. Miguel Maldonado: Quality Assurance Manager at Syracuse Research Corporation and Paul Hoffman: Sr. Software Quality Engineer at Sensis.Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-87848557283645035062010-01-13T07:54:00.000-08:002010-01-13T07:56:35.812-08:00Greater Syracuse Chamber of Commerce - Member MilestonesAs of January 2010, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Haylor</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Freyer</span> & Coon, Inc. has been a member of the local Chamber of Commerce for 45 years!!! This is only one of the many ways we support the Syracuse Business Community!!!Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-75657605110178742432010-01-05T14:49:00.000-08:002010-01-05T14:55:17.753-08:00Pharmacy Benefit ManagementMost employers like their <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">PBM</span>, according to the 2008 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">PBM</span> Customer Satisfaction Report by the Pharmacy Benefit Management Institute.<br /><br />For the survey, 275 employers representing 11.3 mil­lion members ranked their <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">PBM</span> on three factors: overall service and performance, delivering savings as promised and delivering services as promised. Their ratings averaged a very respectable 8.0 out of 10.0, with 10 being the highest.<br /><br />What to look for in a prescription drug plan:<br /><br />1. Plan design:<br />Is the plan structured to encourage your employees to use generic, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">formulary</span> or mail- order drugs? Members respond to incentives that help them save money, particularly in these economic times. Jack <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Bruner</span>, executive vice president of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">PBM</span> marketing at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">CVS</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Caremark</span>, recently told Drug Benefit News, "We saw our generic substitution rate in our book of business go from 60% to 65% in the past year alone...that's quite an impressive movement."<br /><br />2. Education:<br />Does your <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">PBM</span> (or its network pharmacies) provide patient education on drug dosage, use, possible side effects and interactions? Does it provide education to physicians?<br /><br />3. Automatic enrollment:<br />Some <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">PBMs</span> are taking a page from 401(k) sponsors and automatically enrolling group members who need prescriptions for chronic conditions into mail order programs, unless they specifically opt out. Filling prescriptions by mail order usually costs significantly less than filling them at a retail store, and the laws of inertia say that most employees who are <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">automatically</span> enrolled will not bother to opt out.Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-85881117599478335352010-01-04T11:19:00.000-08:002010-01-04T12:46:12.402-08:00Trends in InsuranceTony <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Procopio</span>, Vice President at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Haylor</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Freyer</span> & Coon, recently spoke at a seminar and discussed the "Trends in Insurance". Below is a summary of Tony's comments:<br /><br />Some of the interesting findings are that most carriers have rebounded well this past year and have continued to price aggressively. Overall, they are attempting to get increases on renewal business, but aggressively pricing new business.<br /><br />We have seen pricing come down significantly for those clients who have excellent experience and good credit standing. There is also a more competitive approach available to contractors for all lines of insurance including the Workers Compensation. The most significant change in rating has been with the Workers Compensation in NY. Companies now use a Loss Cost Multiplier (LCM) to apply to the rates. This factor can differ by over 50% from one company to another.<br />As we go into 2010, it is expected to continue, but some resources caution that the market could change toward the end of 2010. It will depend on some contributing factors such as a natural disaster.<br /><br />Most believe we will continue to have a "soft market" in 2010, and if a "Hard Market" was to come, it would be gradual, and not across the country and with every industry.<br /><br />In my 24 years of experience, I have never seen the marketplace so competitive/cut throat. It is also more important now to have a broker that understands the market and Terms and Conditions of the policies that are offered to contractors. There can be limitations or exclusions. It is important to not just look at price, but also at the terms and conditions of the policy/quote.<br /><br />There are also very competitive Captive programs available to Contractors. Over the past 5 years, there has been a growing trend of more contractors joining or forming a Captive. If prices should go up, I would expect more contractors to take this alternative.<br /><br />It is important to also discuss the level of experience and support we offer at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Haylor</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Freyer</span>, & Coon, Inc. Our staff prides itself on the ability to write and service all types and sizes of contractors. We also offer in-house Claims and Loss Control Specialist. These are important in supporting and maintaining the lowest cost of insurance.Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-19972600174683869642009-12-18T05:34:00.000-08:002009-12-18T05:38:23.143-08:00Rochester Community Holiday Support<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w8EHlspbeZw/SyuFWgXEFbI/AAAAAAAAABk/8AZgjOdGMCQ/s1600-h/DSCF0001.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416569598533440946" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w8EHlspbeZw/SyuFWgXEFbI/AAAAAAAAABk/8AZgjOdGMCQ/s320/DSCF0001.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>From Dave Barnes, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">RVP</span> in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Haylor</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Freyer</span> & Coon Rochester, NY branch office....</div><br /><div><br />As I did last year, I will be volunteering at Monroe Community Hospital on Saturday to help with their annual Christmas party for the residents. Monroe Community Hospital is a county-owned health care facility providing long term care to individuals with chronic and complex health conditions. They have residents there ranging in age from 4 months to over 100 years old. One of the local radio personalities, along with the owner of Pace Windows and Doors, one of our customers, have been putting on a holiday show for them for a number of years now and last year I was asked to join them. It was a very rewarding experience and this year my wife and children will all be joining me. We help bring the residents down to the show and we walk around and hand out gifts that are all donated for this event. The picture is of the generous donations brought in by the staff in the HF&C Rochester Branch. We also received some donations from one of the businesses across the hall. The residents of the hospital will be very appreciative of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">everyone's</span> generosity. </div>Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-83326236986519397922009-12-14T14:17:00.000-08:002009-12-14T14:27:42.847-08:00Binghamton Office Christmas Giving<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w8EHlspbeZw/Sya5yD5810I/AAAAAAAAABc/TK-Pml1Mulw/s1600-h/MomsHouseGifts.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415219871652566850" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w8EHlspbeZw/Sya5yD5810I/AAAAAAAAABc/TK-Pml1Mulw/s320/MomsHouseGifts.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><br />Here is a picture of the Christmas gifts <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Haylor</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Freyer</span> & Coon agency <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">employees</span> donated, along with gift cards totaling $85.00 for a single mother and her infant daughter from Mom's House here in Johnson City-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Binghamton</span> area. Mom's House "provides safe, secure, and totally free child-care to low-income single parents wishing to continue their education." Requirements include full-time student status, community service and fund-raising. Many of these single parents are also employed and very motivated to provide a better future for themselves and their children. We were under a time constraint and had to put this together in less than a week. The results were outstanding! The spirit of giving is alive and well in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Binghamton</span>-Johnson City Branch! </div>Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-2564560873543666942009-12-08T08:17:00.000-08:002009-12-08T08:23:32.145-08:00Oswego Dancing with the Stars!Tammy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Kostoroski</span>, a Customer Service Representative in our <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Oswego</span> Office, and her husband Keith will be <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">representing</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Haylor</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Freyer</span> & Coon in the 4<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">th</span> Annual Dancing with the Stars in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Oswego</span>, NY. The Event is hosted by the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Oswego</span> Habitat for Humanity and will be held on February 5<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">th</span> & 6<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">th</span> of 2010. This year the organization is hoping to raise $75,000, which will be used to build another house in the local area. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 315-751-4663. Good Luck Tammy & Keith!!!Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-32722089052662708082009-12-03T06:58:00.001-08:002009-12-03T07:09:12.490-08:00HF&C is Strongly Committed to Continuing Education for our Support Team Members!As a Member of the Professional Insurance Agents of New York State Inc. we are commitmented to continuing education, professional development and superior customer service by support our Staff members as they earn their CIC and CISR designations. <br /><br />“CIC and CISR are recognized throughout the industry and signify the professional achievement and extensive expertise needed to succeed in an ever-changing, demanding profession,” said Diane Fowler, executive director of PIANY. “Member interest in obtaining these designations is testament to the dedication of our membership to providing the best service possible to their clients.” Both designations, established by the National Alliance for Insurance Education and Research, are recognized nationwide as important credentials that show significant professional expertise and personal dedication.<br /><br />The following HF&C Team Members were conferred with the CIC or CISR designation:<br /><br /><strong>Newly conferred PIANY Certified Insurance Counselors</strong><br />Marie Noble, CIC, CPCU, Haylor Freyer & Coon Inc., Syracuse, N.Y.<br />Laurie Pelkey, CIC, Haylor, Freyer & Coon Inc., Syracuse, N.Y.<br /><br /><strong>Newly conferred PIANY Certified Insurance Service Representatives</strong><br />Cynthia Baker, CISR, Haylor, Freyer & Coon Inc., Syracuse, N.Y.<br />Catherine Houde, CISR, Haylor, Freyer & Coon Inc., Syracuse, N.Y.<br />Margaret Kimball, CISR, Haylor, Freyer & Coon Inc., Syracuse, N.Y.<br />Linda Provo, CISR, Haylor, Freyer & Coon Inc., Syracuse, N.Y.<br />Sharon Reed, CISR, Haylor, Freyer & Coon Inc., Syracuse, N.Y.<br />Michele Robinson, CISR, Haylor, Freyer & Coon Inc., Ithaca, N.Y.<br />Diane Stahl, CISR, Haylor, Freyer & Coon Inc., Binghamton, N.Y.<br /><br /><strong></strong>Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-37533315643089077872009-11-18T05:43:00.000-08:002009-11-18T05:45:29.186-08:00Two New Members of our Sales Force!HF&C is excited to announce the addition of two new Sales Producers to our Commercial Lines staff. Both of these individuals have had successful insurance careers and are highly respected within the industry. They joined Haylor, Freyer & Coon on November 9th.<br /><br />Sheila Gilroy joined our Syracuse General Unit. Her background includes the production and brokering of Public School Student Accident and Collegiate Student Health insurance. Sheila’s experience and expertise will blend well with H.F.&C.’s current Collegiate and Public School business sectors.<br /><br />Jim Schaefer is joining our Utica office team. He has spent the majority of his insurance career as a Sales Producer for Liberty Mutual. Jim’s background and focus included manufacturing, healthcare, transportation and social services. In addition to focusing on middle market business, we anticipate he will be working closely with H. F. & C.’s Large Account unit.Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-10841494322034905312009-11-16T10:54:00.000-08:002009-11-16T10:56:20.247-08:00Consumers Cite Agents as Most Credible Insurance Resourceby Katie Butler, IA magazine editor & chief<br /><br />Despite the fact that the media is filled with members of Congress, President Barack Obama and pundits talking about insurance every day, consumers are more likely to trust what they hear from their local insurance agent. More than 64 percent of respondents in a recent study said they trusted their insurance agent for credible information about insurance industry issues – the highest ranking in the survey.<br /><br />The study, recently conducted by the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America, looked at the attitudes of registered voters and opinion elite (30+, college degree, household income of more than $50,000 and significant consumers of news) on the financial crisis and insurance-related topics.<br /><br />Agents topped the field of sources that consumers trust most for insurance information, followed by insurance companies (61 percent), local newspapers (52 percent) and President Barack Obama (51 percent). Members of Congress and U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner ranked at the bottom of the list at 39 percent and 37 percent respectively.<br /><br />Although the survey found property-casualty companies are less likely than others to receive blame for the financial crisis, significant numbers do believe home/auto and commercial carriers played a major role. For example, 87 percent of national survey participants thought mortgage lending companies played a "major role" in the crisis, while 46 percent thought commercial insurance companies played a major role. Interestingly, respondents said home and auto carriers, at 29 percent, ranked below consumers themselves (38 percent) as a source of blame.<br /><br />Many focus group respondents lumped banks, mortgage lenders, insurance companies and other bad actors (such as Bernie Madoff) together in their views on the economic crisis.<br />To prevent a future economic crisis, 61 percent said "determining which sectors of the marketplace caused the financial crisis and fixing the gaps in federal oversight" was the solution, rather than imposing comprehensive regulation on the entire sector. Study participants stressed the importance of enforcing regulations already in place. While the focus groups were largely unaware of how p-c companies were regulated, 57 percent thought p-c companies should be regulated at the state level.<br /><br />The preceding article appeared originally in the Nov. 5, 2009 issue of IIABA’s Insurance News & Views.Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-40998980055932988362009-11-03T11:58:00.000-08:002009-11-03T12:00:45.367-08:00Rochester OfficeIn October of 2009, Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc. was listed in the Rochester Business Journal as the 12th oldest business in the Rochester area. Haylor purchased The Monroe Group in December 2005, whose ties go back to 1849 and the Gilbert t. Amsden Agency. Just more proof that Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc. is committed to being around for the long haul.Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-177268647217589552009-11-03T11:57:00.000-08:002009-11-03T11:58:35.247-08:00Binghamton Office Recognized by ChamberOn October 19, 2009, Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc. was recognized by the Chamber of Commerce as the Business of the week. President C. Bruce Wichmann gladly accepted the honor along with the staff of our Binghamton Office.Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-64875090725240460682009-10-26T14:38:00.000-07:002009-10-26T14:45:48.549-07:00Newly Vested Employees!As we recently closed another successful fiscal year, we also have added twelve individuals that have become fully vested! The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">ESOP</span> Committee and Board of Directors would like to recognize and congratulate these twelve people who were <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">recenly</span> awarded their fleece vests <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">at</span> our first annual Employee Owners Meeting. Just in time for the Chilly Fall Weather!<br /><br /><strong>Mae Carter</strong> - Contact <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">CSR</span>, Syracuse Personal Lines<br /><strong>Mark <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Crisafulli</span></strong> - Producer, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Transportation</span><br /><strong>Candi Davis</strong> - Contact <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">CSR</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Utica</span> Personal Lines<br /><strong>Lori <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Forsythe</span></strong> - Assistant Underwriter/Broker Program Coordinator, Manufactured Housing<br /><strong>Kris <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Hartnett</span></strong> - Human Resources Assistant<br /><strong>Angela Hughes</strong> - Corporate Controller<br /><strong>Lisa <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Losito</span></strong> - Producer, Syracuse Personal Lines<br /><strong>Rick Robson</strong> - Quality Control Auditor and Personal Lines Trainer<br /><strong>Tina Ruggiero</strong> - Producer, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Transportation</span><br /><strong>Tony <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Spina</span></strong> - Claims Consultant<br /><strong>Barb <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Suydam</span></strong> - Senior Account Manager in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Morrisville</span> Commercial Lines<br /><strong>Scott <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Wichmann</span></strong> - Producer, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">DFA</span>Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4136567798802349861.post-15464405702319725782009-10-14T13:51:00.000-07:002009-10-14T13:55:52.668-07:00Let The Buyer BewareThe Internet is proving itself to be an explosive and revolutionary player in the Age Of Information. Many different types of business are taking advantage of this medium, with its connection to savvy, technologically astute consumers, as a way to promote insurance products. As we all peer over our glasses at the 21st century, it bears repeating - "Let the buyer beware."<br /><br /><strong>What Is The Danger?<br /></strong>Actually, perhaps no more than any business transacted via any other medium such as in person, via phone, catalog, wholesale club, etc. BUT, the need for being a careful consumer is critical to whatever medium is being used. The other problem is that seeing information published gives the information a higher level of credibility than it may be due; this Includes the information you're currently reading. Our advice is to be certain of the information you get before acting on that information. Although it's true that ten sources of information can give you ten different answers, it's preferable to seek and sort out different grains of truth than to have blind faith in a single source.<br /><br /><p><strong>Why Is There Danger?</strong><br />There are numerous reasons. The internet holds many wonders, but it also provides many opportunities for acquiring information that may be useless and even harmful. Any prudent individual should remember the following: </p><ol><li>It is often impossible to verify who has posted the information and whether the source has any expertise in the subject matter.</li><li>Material that appears on the net may be presented as facts when they're actually opinions.</li><li>The information may be accurate for one purpose or set of circumstances, but it doesn't tell you how the information applies to other situations; at the very least, it should contain some kind of disclaimer.</li><li>No credible party may have taken responsibility for keeping the information accurate and current.</li><li>The person or organization that posted the information may possibly have a criminal intent often internet publishers forget that the medium is global and they may be using information that is for a specific group or geographic location. </li></ol><p><strong>So Is This Information Any Good?<br /></strong>That depends upon what you do next. When seeking information to meet your insurance needs it's important to discuss your concerns with a knowledgeable source. A professional insurance agent is a good source for getting the answers you need to fit your unique coverage situation. </p>Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11590589690900002392noreply@blogger.com0