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March 14, 2025
Rebuilding Fire-Impacted Communities: Expert Strategies for Safer Design
Wildfires have once again left a lasting impact on Southern California, reducing entire neighborhoods to ash and prompting critical discussions on how to rebuild in a way that prioritizes safety. According to a recent Los Angeles Times article, experts who study wildfire behavior suggest that communities must embrace innovative strategies to minimize risk and prevent future disasters.
Strategic Buffer Zones
One of the most effective ways to protect communities from wildfire is by creating buffer zones between urban areas and wilderness. These zones serve as a barrier to slow or stop the spread of flames. Potential solutions include:- Agricultural land: Farmland can act as a natural firebreak, limiting the fire’s ability to advance.
- Parks and golf courses: Large open spaces with minimal vegetation can provide additional protection.
- Commercial spaces: Strip malls and other nonresidential areas can be repurposed as open spaces, such as basketball courts or public gardens with fire-resistant landscaping.
Interior Firebreaks and Escape Routes
Beyond perimeter buffers, urban areas can incorporate firebreaks and evacuation paths to enhance safety:- Paved bike and walking paths: These can double as both recreational spaces and firebreaks for firefighters to use as defense lines.
- Clear evacuation routes: Ensuring well-planned escape routes is critical, particularly in fire-prone regions.
- Parking lots as staging areas: Large lots at schools, malls, and public buildings can serve as command centers for first responders.
Rethinking Neighborhood Layouts
Experts propose reconfiguring neighborhoods to minimize fire spread. This may include:- Densification: While it may seem counterintuitive, increasing housing density — when done with fire-resistant materials — can limit the spread of fire. Structures built to stringent codes with limited flammable landscaping can serve as a collective fire barrier.
- Adjusting lot placement: Homes positioned in high-risk zones could be relocated, creating additional buffer areas.
- Replacing wooden fences: Switching to metal or masonry fences can prevent fire from jumping between properties.
Transfer of Development Rights
For those in particularly vulnerable areas, a policy known as “transfer of development rights” could provide a path to safer living conditions. Homeowners in fire-prone locations could work with city officials to relocate to lower-risk neighborhoods while preserving the land as a protective buffer. While some residents may be open to such a change, others may resist leaving prime real estate locations. The Los Angeles Times article notes that this approach has drawn mixed reactions from homeowners.Fire-Smart Landscaping and Home Design
Individual property owners can also play a role in reducing wildfire risk by implementing fire-resistant landscaping strategies:- Within five feet of the house: Remove flammable materials and replace them with noncombustible surfaces such as gravel or cement.
- Five to 30 feet from structures: Replace flammable vegetation with fire-resistant plants like succulents and keep propane tanks in designated zones.
- 30 to 100 feet from structures: Trim tree branches, maintain defensible space, and keep fire-prone items like woodpiles and recreational vehicles at a safe distance.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite the clear benefits of these strategies, implementation remains a challenge. Some residents may be unwilling to relocate, and certain measures, such as zoning changes, require broad policy shifts. Additionally, while these wildfire-prevention methods can significantly reduce risk, extreme conditions—such as 100-mph wind-driven wildfires—may still overwhelm even the most well-planned defenses. As highlighted in the Los Angeles Times, experts acknowledge that some fires will remain difficult to control despite improved planning.Moving Forward
As California continues to experience frequent and severe wildfires, adapting to new realities is essential. During a recent press conference, Gov. Gavin Newsom emphasized the importance of making informed decisions about rebuilding, stating, “We have to adapt to reality.” By embracing fire-conscious planning and construction, communities have the opportunity to rebuild in ways that improve safety, resilience, and sustainability for the future.
March 14, 2025
Court Denies AssuredPartners’ Request for Injunction in Legal Dispute with Former Employees
AssuredPartners (AP) filed a lawsuit in December 2024 against EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants and three former employees — Rick Frechmann, Joleen Mayfield, and Brad Snitzer — alleging breach of contract, misappropriation of trade secrets, tortious interference, unjust enrichment, and breach of the duty of loyalty. The lawsuit claims that after leaving AP, the defendants improperly solicited AP clients and took confidential information.
Court Denies AP’s Request for Temporary Restraining Order
As part of its lawsuit, AP sought a temporary restraining order (TRO) to prevent the former employees from conducting business with AP’s clients. The company argued that their actions had caused financial losses and irreparable harm to its goodwill. However, US District Judge Sarah E. Pitlyk denied AP’s TRO request, citing a lack of evidence proving that an injunction was necessary.
In her ruling, Judge Pitlyk emphasized that:
- AP’s primary alleged harm—the loss of six clients and 21 insurance policies—was a financial loss that could be addressed through monetary damages, rather than requiring injunctive relief.
- The company did not provide sufficient evidence that its reputation or goodwill had suffered beyond measurable financial losses.
- The court was not convinced that AP would continue to lose clients at a rate that justified emergency legal intervention.
While the ruling does not dismiss AP’s broader claims, it allows EPIC and its newly hired employees to continue their business operations without court-imposed restrictions.
Legal Issues at the Center of the Case
The lawsuit centers on the enforcement of Restrictive Covenant Agreements (RCAs) that the former employees signed while at AP. These agreements include:
- Non-solicitation clause: Prevents former employees from soliciting, selling, quoting, placing, or servicing insurance products for AP clients for two years after leaving the company. It also prohibits them from influencing AP’s business partners to diminish or end their relationships with AP.
- Confidential information clause: Prohibits former employees from using or disclosing non-public information related to AP’s clients, contracts, pricing, business strategies, and insurance markets.
- Restricted clients clause: Identifies AP’s clients from the past two years as “restricted clients,” meaning former employees cannot conduct business with them during the restricted period.
Frechmann, Mayfield, and Snitzer have denied soliciting former AP clients but stated that some clients reached out to them after seeing public announcements about their new employment.
Next Steps in Litigation
The court has ordered both parties to establish a schedule for limited discovery and briefing on a potential preliminary injunction. This schedule, due by March 14, 2025, will set the timeline for the next phase of litigation.
The case raises broader legal questions about the enforceability of restrictive covenants in the insurance industry and the extent to which former employees can engage with previous clients. As the lawsuit moves forward, further rulings will determine the validity of AP’s claims.
For now, EPIC and the former AP employees can continue working without legal restrictions imposed by the court.
March 14, 2025
Gallagher’s AssuredPartners Acquisition Faces Timeline Adjustment Due to Regulatory Review
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. has announced that the anticipated closure of its $13.45 billion acquisition of AssuredPartners Inc. will likely be pushed to the second half of 2025. Initially expected to be finalized in the first quarter, the revised timeline follows a request for additional information under the Hart-Scott-Rodino (HSR) Act, a regulatory process overseen by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ).
Regulatory Scrutiny Extends Review Period
Gallagher submitted an HSR filing as part of standard antitrust review procedures for large-scale transactions. The law typically enforces a 30-day waiting period before merging entities can move forward with integration. However, the request for further details extends this timeline until 30 days after Gallagher has complied with the additional information request. Gallagher acknowledged that receiving such a request is a common part of the review process for transactions of this scale. The company emphasized that while the timeline has shifted, it remains committed to fulfilling regulatory requirements and progressing toward closing the deal.Strategic Impact of the Acquisition
Initially announced in December 2024, the acquisition of AssuredPartners represents a significant expansion for Gallagher, reinforcing its position as the world’s third-largest brokerage firm. The deal is expected to bring Gallagher’s annual revenue to approximately $14 billion, enhancing its competitive standing in the insurance brokerage industry. Despite the extended timeline, Gallagher has expressed confidence in completing the transaction. The company remains actively engaged in responding to regulatory requests and working toward a smooth integration process once approval is granted.What Comes Next?
While the delay may impact the short-term timeline for the acquisition’s completion, Gallagher and AssuredPartners continue to operate independently as they await final regulatory clearance. Market observers will be watching closely as the antitrust review progresses, with an eye on how this consolidation may influence competition within the insurance brokerage sector. As regulatory reviews unfold, Gallagher remains optimistic about the acquisition's benefits and potential impact on the company’s long-term growth strategy. As the review process advances in the coming months, further updates are expected.
March 13, 2025
Wildfire Recovery in L.A. Stalls as Insurers Pull Back on Coverage
The aftermath of the recent wildfires in Los Angeles, particularly in the Pacific Palisades area, has left displaced residents facing significant challenges in rebuilding due to insurance constraints. While city officials and developers are working on recovery plans, securing homeowners’ insurance has become a significant obstacle, according to a recent Wall Street Journal (WSJ) article.
Insurance Industry Pullback
The WSJ reports that California’s largest property insurer, State Farm General, has announced it is not writing new policies in high-risk wildfire areas, stating, “Writing new policies doesn’t make any sense at this time.” The company has also requested a 22% rate increase for 1.2 million homeowners to maintain financial stability. The insurance commissioner, Ricardo Lara, acknowledged that outdated state regulations, particularly Proposition 103, have limited insurers’ ability to charge rates that fully account for wildfire risks.
Scale of the Damage and Insurance Costs
The January wildfires caused extensive damage, burning over 50,000 acres, destroying more than 16,000 structures in Pacific Palisades alone, and leading to an estimated $40 billion in insurance claims. The WSJ notes that California’s FAIR Plan, the state’s insurer of last resort, provides coverage up to $3 million per home, leaving many high-value properties significantly underinsured. Some homeowners choose to self-insure, accepting the financial risk themselves due to the difficulty of obtaining traditional policies.
Challenges in Rebuilding and Recovery Plans
According to the WSJ, Los Angeles officials, led by newly appointed Chief Recovery Officer Steve Soboroff, are working on rebuilding strategies that include fire-resistant construction materials and infrastructure improvements, such as burying power lines. However, political disputes have emerged, particularly over housing density and affordability concerns. Meanwhile, billionaire developer Rick Caruso has initiated a separate effort to restore the area with private investment, opposing the inclusion of affordable housing.
State Farm's Financial Position and Rate Increase Request
At a February meeting in Oakland, State Farm disclosed that it expects $7.9 billion in payouts from the wildfires and has already faced financial strain due to inflation and increasing natural disaster claims. The company previously sought a 30% rate increase, which was denied without a public hearing under Proposition 103. Now, it is requesting a 22% hike, which the state is still reviewing. Consumer advocacy groups argue that State Farm has not sufficiently justified its need for higher rates.
Uncertainty for Homeowners
The WSJ reports that many residents are uncertain about returning, with some estimating that three out of four former homeowners in Pacific Palisades may not rebuild due to financial and insurance-related hurdles. Even those committed to rebuilding, like architect Arika-Paloma Urquidez, are primarily focused on whether their new homes will be insurable rather than aesthetics.
The WSJ article highlights the broader implications of wildfire risk and insurance availability across California, raising concerns about whether insurers will continue to provide coverage in high-risk areas and how state regulations will adapt to the increasing frequency of natural disasters.
March 13, 2025
USG Announces Hire of Joshua Reinhold in Trinity, FL
With more than seven years of experience in the insurance industry, Reinhold has developed specialized expertise in risk assessment, policy development, and client relationship management. His career includes roles in both MGA and brokerage sectors, equipping him to address complex risks and offer customized solutions to a broad range of clients.
Reinhold's dedication to excellence shines through in his careful attention to policy servicing, ensuring smooth transactions, comprehensive risk assessments, and clear communication with clients. His in-depth industry knowledge and commitment to providing exceptional service make him a strong asset to the USG team.
This move is the most recent change that USG has implemented in its plan to continue expanding its operations nationally as a leading wholesaler brokerage firm.
ABOUT USG:
USG is a national wholesale broker and managing general agent (MGA) with offices throughout the country. USG represents 400+ A rated carriers, both admitted and non-admitted and is an MGA for multiple top carriers, writing business in all states. USG's mission is to become the #1 provider of innovative solutions for the risk management industry--exceeding expectations with its advanced technology, creative problem solving, and research capabilities. 
March 13, 2025
Louisiana Property Insurance Market Shows Signs of Stability as Rate Increases Decline
March 12, 2025
Redfin Report: The Rise of the Rich Renters
San Jose and Orlando Have the Highest Share of Wealthy Renters
In San Jose, CA, 11% of renters are wealthy—the highest share among the 50 most populous metros. Next come Orlando (10.8%), San Francisco (10.4%), New York (10.3%) and Seattle (9.9%). These metros have long been on the list of the most expensive places to buy a home, with the exception of Orlando, which saw home prices skyrocket during the pandemic. That’s one reason these places have a relatively high share of affluent renters. The median home sale price in San Jose, for example, is $1.4 million—the highest in the country. But these metros also have a relatively high share of wealthy renters because renting is a lot more affordable than buying; the typical affluent person in San Jose would only need to spend 10.5% of their income on rent to afford the median-priced apartment, versus 21% to afford the median-priced home for sale—the largest gap among the top 50 metros. These metros are expensive in part because they have such a high concentration of wealth. West Coast tech hubs like the Bay Area and Seattle gained popularity during the early 2000s, leading to a surge in home prices and an influx of wealthy workers. It was during that time that these areas saw the share of wealthy renters skyrocket. Between 2000 and 2019, the share of affluent renters in Seattle rose to 9.5% from 6.7%—the biggest gain in the nation. San Francisco saw the second-largest increase, and San Jose wasn’t far behind. “Many wealthy Americans can easily afford the median-priced home but are renting to save up for the high-end home of their dreams,” de la Campa said. "When housing costs rise rapidly—be it in tech hubs during the early 2000s or Sun Belt boomtowns during the pandemic—that dream home takes longer to save up for, keeping folks renting for longer.”Oklahoma City Has the Lowest Share of Wealthy Renters
Oklahoma City had the lowest share of affluent renters as of 2023, with just 4.7% of renters earning in the top 20% of local incomes. It’s followed by Cincinnati (4.8%), Hartford, CT (5%), Cleveland (5.1%) and Providence, RI (5.2%). These metros have among the lowest homebuying costs in the country, which is likely why affluent residents are less likely to rent.Birmingham and New Orleans Have Seen the Biggest Drop in the Share of Wealthy Renters
In Birmingham, AL, 5.4% of renters are wealthy, down from 7.6% in 2019—the largest decrease among the top 50 metros. New Orleans saw roughly the same drop, to 5.4% from 7.5%. Next came San Francisco (10.4%, down from 11.9%), Pittsburgh (5.8%, down from 7.2%), Sacramento, CA (5.9%, down from 7%), and Oklahoma City (4.7%, down from 5.8%). Birmingham, New Orleans, Pittsburgh, and Oklahoma City all have median home sale prices below the national level. And in all of the aforementioned metros, the income needed to afford a home has risen less than the national average, which may help explain why some affluent Americans opted to trade their lease for a mortgage. In Pittsburgh, for example, the income needed to afford a home is up 19.5% from 2019—the smallest increase in the nation. The typical affluent Pittsburgher earns at least $145,295 per year, nearly four times what they would need to afford the median-priced home—the largest surplus among the top 50 metros. San Francisco is the main outlier in the list above, as it’s very expensive. But scores of people moved out during the pandemic, contributing to a plunge in home prices, which allowed many wealthy renters who did stick around to find good deals on homes for sale. Redfin’s report is based on an analysis of U.S. Census Bureau, MLS, and county records data from 2019 to 2023—the most recent year for which income data is available. Redfin considers a renter “wealthy” or “affluent” if their household income is in the top 20% of local incomes. To view the full report, including charts, metro-level data, and methodology, please visit: https://www.redfin.com/news/rich-renters-2025 About Redfin Redfin (www.redfin.com) is a technology-powered real estate company. We help people find a place to live with brokerage, rentals, lending, and title insurance services. We run the country's #1 real estate brokerage site. Our customers can save thousands in fees while working with a top agent. Our home-buying customers see homes first with on-demand tours, and our lending and title services help them close quickly. Our rental business empowers millions nationwide to find apartments and houses for rent. Since launching in 2006, we've saved customers more than $1.8 billion in commissions. We serve approximately 100 markets across the U.S. and Canada and employ over 4,000 people. Redfin’s subsidiaries and affiliated brands include: Bay Equity Home Loans®, Rent.™, Apartment Guide®, Title Forward® and WalkScore®.
March 12, 2025
AccuWeather’s 2025 Tornado Season Forecast: What to Expect
As severe weather season kicks into gear across the United States, meteorologists at AccuWeather have released their predictions for the 2025 tornado season. While the overall number of tornadoes is expected to be slightly lower than the record-breaking 2024 season, forecasters warn that severe weather could be especially intense outside of the traditional Tornado Alley.
Shifting Tornado Hotspots: More Activity East of Tornado Alley
AccuWeather Long-Range Expert Paul Pastelok emphasizes that while tornadoes will still occur in the Plains, the Mississippi Valley could see significantly more severe weather activity. A persistent high-pressure system over the Southwest may suppress thunderstorm development in parts of the Plains, while unusually warm waters in the Gulf of Mexico will fuel storms further east. Regions such as the Mississippi, Tennessee, and western Ohio Valleys are expected to experience frequent and intense storms in the coming months. This shift in tornado activity underscores the importance of preparedness for areas that may not be accustomed to frequent severe weather outbreaks.Tornado Activity to Ramp Up in April and May
The peak of tornado season traditionally occurs between April and May, and 2025 is expected to follow a similar trend. AccuWeather’s forecast predicts:- 75 to 150 tornadoes in March
- 200 to 300 tornadoes in April
- 250 to 350 tornadoes in May
Derecho Threat: The Rise of Inland Hurricanes
In addition to tornadoes, meteorologists are warning about an increased risk of derechos—long-lived, fast-moving storms that can produce widespread wind damage. Often described as “inland hurricanes,” derechos have the potential to cause devastation across large areas. While it is still early to pinpoint where these storms may develop, forecasters are leaning toward the central Plains and mid-Mississippi Valley as the most likely locations.Projected Tornado Count for 2025
The 2024 tornado season set a high bar, with 1,855 tornadoes reported, including over 500 in May alone. While 2025 is not expected to reach those extreme numbers, AccuWeather predicts a total of 1,300 to 1,450 tornadoes for the year. This is still above the historical average of 1,225, highlighting the continued risk of severe storms.Preparation Is Key
Now is the time for residents across the country to prepare for tornado season. AccuWeather urges people to have a tornado safety plan in place and to assemble an emergency kit with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and first aid supplies. Although the bulk of tornadoes in 2025 are expected to hit the central and southern U.S., history shows that tornadoes can occur in almost any state. In 2024, tornadoes were reported in every contiguous U.S. state except Nevada, Vermont, and Maine. As spring progresses, staying informed and having a preparedness plan can make all the difference in staying safe during severe weather outbreaks. Be sure to monitor AccuWeather updates and heed all local weather alerts to stay ahead of potential storms.
March 12, 2025
Navigating Mortgage Lending Risks Amid Reduced Oversight
The Role of the CFPB and Its Impact
Established in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis, the CFPB was created to regulate mortgage lenders, enhance transparency, and protect consumers from predatory lending practices. Over the years, the bureau implemented key measures, including simplified loan disclosure forms and penalties for unfair lending practices. However, recent policy shifts have weakened its enforcement capabilities, according to The New York Times, leading to concerns about transparency and accountability in the mortgage industry.Key Changes and Their Implications
The reduced oversight of the mortgage market presents several potential challenges, including:- Limited regulatory enforcement – The CFPB has scaled back investigations into lending practices, making it more difficult to hold lenders accountable for potential misconduct.
- Potential for increased borrower risk – Without strong enforcement, home buyers may face a higher risk of misleading loan terms, undisclosed fees, or less favorable mortgage conditions.
- State-Level regulation variability – With reduced federal oversight, states may take on a larger role in regulating lenders, leading to inconsistencies in consumer protections across different regions.
- Higher borrower costs – Research has shown that shopping around for mortgage rates can lead to significant savings, but without strong regulatory encouragement, fewer borrowers may take the time to compare options.
Steps Borrowers Can Take to Protect Themselves
Given these shifts, home buyers and borrowers can take proactive measures to safeguard their financial interests:- Compare multiple lenders – Research has shown that obtaining multiple mortgage rate quotes can result in significant savings, yet many borrowers do not take advantage of this strategy.
- Review loan terms carefully – Without strong oversight, it is more important than ever for borrowers to thoroughly review mortgage agreements and ask questions about fees, rates, and repayment terms.
- Utilize consumer education resources – Various independent organizations and state regulators offer resources to help borrowers understand their mortgage options and rights.
- Report issues to state regulators – Although the CFPB's enforcement role has diminished, borrowers experiencing issues with lenders can still file complaints with state consumer protection agencies.
The Future of Mortgage Oversight
While federal oversight has weakened, the long-term impact on mortgage lending remains uncertain. Some states may take on a more active regulatory role, while legal challenges may shape the future of consumer protections in the housing market. In the meantime, borrowers must remain vigilant, conduct thorough research, and take steps to ensure they secure the best possible mortgage terms in a changing regulatory environment.
March 11, 2025
Navigating Market Shifts: Nationwide Expands Surplus Lines Property Offerings
The property insurance market is undergoing significant changes as major insurers scale back in high-risk regions, prompting a surge in demand for excess and surplus (E&S) lines coverage. Responding to these industry challenges, Nationwide has announced the expansion of its footprint in the E&S market with the launch of a new Brokerage Property unit. This initiative, set to be operational in the latter half of the year, underscores the growing importance of surplus lines carriers in providing solutions where traditional insurers have retreated.
Addressing Hard-to-Place Property Risks
The newly established unit will focus on providing coverage for commercial properties that face elevated risks and do not fit within standard underwriting guidelines. Led by industry veteran Tonya Courtney, the unit aims to bridge the gap left by admitted carriers that have withdrawn from markets due to rising catastrophe risks. Courtney, who brings over three decades of experience in managing commercial property portfolios, will report to David Nelson, executive vice president of E&S wholesale at Nationwide. According to Nelson, Courtney’s leadership and expertise in the wholesale market make her well-suited to spearhead this strategic expansion. The unit is expected to provide tailored non-admitted wholesale products to properties that require more specialized coverage, particularly in states prone to hurricanes, wildfires, and other natural disasters.Industry Trends and the Growing Role of E&S Markets
Nationwide’s decision to enhance its presence in the surplus lines market aligns with a broader industry trend. In recent years, insurers have withdrawn from certain markets due to regulatory constraints and unsustainable loss ratios, leaving property owners with fewer coverage options. Data from S&P Global Market Intelligence highlights this shift, showing that surplus lines insurers' share of U.S. property premiums grew from 5% in 2018 to 9% in 2023, with even higher concentrations in disaster-prone states. Regulatory challenges have played a key role in this shift. Many admitted insurers cite strict state-imposed rate regulations in states like California and Florida as a major hurdle to pricing risk accurately. These constraints have driven insurers to exit these markets, leaving surplus lines carriers as a critical alternative.Challenges Facing Surplus Lines Carriers
While surplus lines insurers have stepped in to fill coverage gaps, they also face challenges of their own. Unlike admitted carriers, surplus lines insurers are not protected by state guaranty funds, raising concerns about financial stability in the event of large-scale catastrophe losses. Additionally, many surplus lines carriers depend heavily on reinsurance, which can be volatile in times of increasing claims frequency and severity. Consumer advocates have voiced concerns about the long-term sustainability of the surplus lines market. Doug Heller of the Consumer Federation of America noted that some smaller surplus lines carriers may lack the financial reserves necessary to withstand consecutive years of high-loss events, highlighting the need for regulatory oversight and financial due diligence.Regulatory Responses and Market Adaptations
State regulators are taking steps to address the changing insurance landscape. In California, new rules have been introduced to allow insurers to use forward-looking risk models and pass reinsurance costs to policyholders, with the caveat that insurers must continue offering coverage in high-risk areas. Meanwhile, Florida policymakers have attempted to stabilize Citizens Property Insurance Corp., the state’s insurer of last resort, though it still holds nearly one million policies. As Nationwide proceeds with its E&S Brokerage Property expansion, the company enters a market that is evolving rapidly. Surplus lines insurers play an increasingly essential role in providing property coverage amid rising climate risks and shifting regulatory policies. However, the long-term sustainability of these solutions will depend on a careful balance between affordability, financial resilience, and regulatory adaptability. Nationwide’s latest move signals confidence in the surplus lines sector, but ongoing industry and regulatory challenges will continue to shape its trajectory.
March 11, 2025
SAN Group Welcomes Michael Sakraida as Regional Vice President
Satellite Agency Network Group, Inc. — SAN Group — the leading alliance of independent insurance agencies in the Northeast, is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael (Mike) Sakraida as Regional Vice President for Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine.
In this role, Sakraida will focus on expanding membership opportunities, driving territory development, and strengthening relationships between SAN Group member agencies and insurance carriers. He will also collaborate closely with David Collins, Agency Growth Coach for the region, to support agency growth and success.
With more than 15 years of experience in the insurance industry, Sakraida brings extensive expertise in sales, operations, and strategic planning. His career includes leading high-performing sales teams, spearheading national initiatives, and enhancing agent efficiency through technology and process optimization. Most recently, as Senior Project Manager at Comparion Insurance Agency, he played a key role in improving CRM adoption, streamlining operations, and advancing agent communication systems.
“We are excited to welcome Mike to SAN,” said Tom Lizotte, SAN’s Chief Operating Officer. “His deep experience in sales, operations, and agency development will be a tremendous asset to our member agencies as they work to grow and strengthen their businesses. With a proven track record of leading large-scale initiatives and a passion for operational efficiency and innovation, Mike is well-positioned to drive SAN’s business development efforts in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine.”
Sakraida holds a B.S. in English from Virginia Tech and an MBA from Northeastern University. He has earned the LUTCF designation and is currently pursuing his CPCU certification.
He resides in Reading, MA, with his wife and their two children.
About SAN Group, Inc. SAN Group is the largest alliance of independent insurance agencies in the Northeast, empowering nearly 520 member agencies across nine states to thrive. With access to 45+ topinsurance carriers, SAN members collectively write over $1.8 billion in premium. SAN is the founding master agency of SIAA, The Agent Alliance, and continues to drive innovation and growth in the independent insurance channel. Learn more at www.sangroup.com
March 11, 2025
Insurance Leaders Raise Record $1.2 Million for Charity at IICF Southeast Gala
The Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation (IICF), a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities, raised a record-breaking $1.2 million at its 13th annual IICF Southeast Gala last week at The Thompson in Dallas. More than 665 insurance professionals gathered to celebrate the industry’s commitment to giving back while raising funds for nonprofit grantees across Texas and the Southeast. This marks the fourth consecutive year that the Southeast Division has raised over $1 million at its annual gala.
IICF honored Laura Beckmann, President and Chief Operating Officer of AmRisc LLC, with the prestigious 2025 IICF Southeast Philanthropic Leadership Award, recognizing her dedication to philanthropy within both the insurance industry and the broader community. A highly respected leader, Beckmann’s focus on ethics and compassion drives AmRisc’s philanthropic initiatives. She also serves on the IICF Houston Chapter Board of Directors and the Msomi Academy for Girls in Kenya board and is an active member of YPO, WSIA, CIAB, and APIW.
“As a longtime IICF board member, I am thrilled to receive the IICF Southeast Philanthropic Leadership Award this year,” said Beckmann. “The collective impact we make through IICF — supporting children, families, and veterans across the Southeast — is incredibly meaningful.”
Proceeds from the IICF Southeast Gala support nonprofit partners focused on children at risk, education, disaster relief, and military veterans. Since its founding in 2012, the Southeast Division has awarded $9.5 million in grants to more than 310 nonprofits and charities. This year’s event will fund 27 IICF Community Grants to organizations across Texas and the Southeast. In 2025, the IICF Southeast will expand its charitable reach with the launch of a new IICF Florida Chapter, based in the Tampa region.
“We are extraordinarily proud to have raised over $1 million for charity for the fourth year in a row,” said Dan Kennedy, Chair of the IICF Southeast Division Board of Directors and Regional President at Markel. “It’s incredibly special to come together as an industry to help those in need in our communities.”
“Following IICF’s 30th anniversary year—during which we helped deliver an additional 1 million meals to children in need—we were excited to host the first of IICF’s 2025 benefit events in Dallas,” said Sarah Conway, Executive Director of the IICF Southeast Division. “This year’s gala was especially meaningful as we honored Bill Henry, a true industry and philanthropic legend. As IICF’s Founding Board Chair in Texas, his vision and dedication laid the foundation for this incredible organization, and his giving heart continues to inspire us all.”
Sponsors
This year’s Southeast Gala was made possible by generous support from:
- Diamond Sponsors: Texas Mutual and The Henry Family
- Platinum Sponsors: AmRisc, Amwins, Apex One Capital, Burns & Wilcox, CNA, CRC Group, Markel, Marsh McLennan Agency, RT Specialty, and The Hartford
- Gold Sponsors: AIG, Amerisure, HUB, Service Insurance Companies, and XPT
- Along with many other generous industry sponsors
