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In The News

 

Totten Group's Brampton and Mississauga Offices are Moving

We are excited to announce that Totten Group Brampton and Totten Group Mississauga are moving to a new location. Both offices will be closed from Friday February 15th until Noon on Tuesday February 19th. If you require immediate assistance during this time, please contact our London office at (519)668-6111 or toll free - 1-888-868-8367.

This newly combined office will be located at;

555 Burnhamthorpe Road
8th Floor
Toronto, ON
M9C 2Y3


 

Totten Group gets "In the Spirit"

Pictured below, our London staff and some of the many packages being donated to Craigwood this Christmas.

 

Craigwood Youth Services has a long history of offering a wide variety of services to troubled youth and their families. They are a registered, non-profit organization, incorporated as a Children's Mental Health Centre in 1983. They are primarily funded by the Ministry of Community, Family and Children's Services and a community Board of Directors provides leadership to the organization. There are no fees for services although parents and legal guardians are asked to cover the costs related to their children's clothing needs, dental coverage, prescription drugs and similar items while in their care.

Through the dedication and talents of the Totten Insurance Group's employees, we provide clothing, household items, food and Santa gifts etc. Monies raised for the families by way of many fund raisers throughout the year.

"Thanks again for this incredible generous gift you all give this time every year. I wish somehow we could record the kids faces Christmas morning. I have described all of you as our Christmas Angels."

Merry Christmas
Jon Deactis
Craigwood Youth Services


 

Totten Group's 5th Annual Dog Guides Charity Invitational

A relaxed day on the golf course was enjoyed by over 100 of Totten Group's Industry friends earlier this month. At the same time, enough funds were raised to support a Canadian Dog Guide Client and his/her dog for the 5th year in a row. With our help, over the last 12 years, 13 dogs have been raised, trained and partnered up with a visually impaired, medically disabled or hard of hearing client.

We at Totten Group, thank all those that have supported us by way of sponsorship and/or participation and we look forward to next year's event, July 10, 2008.

Winners of the 2007 Charity Invitational


Terry Gudmundson, Jeff Ives, Paul Green and John Feric

Diana Bertram, CAIB., of Zorkin Insurance Brokers wins hand carved Inukshuk at B.C. Broker's Convention

Diana Bertram, CAIB., of Zorkin Insurance Brokers in Nanaimo, British Columbia, was the winner of a hand carved Inukshuk at this years B.C. Broker's Convention held in beautiful Victoria, British Columbia. Diana beat out the competition in the draw for this piece of art.

The soapstone was carved by a local Canadian native artist and is one of a series Totten Group has commissioned in 2007. These will be presented at broker conventions across Canada during the year.

Congratulations Diana!



Ray Wallis of Soltys Agencies wins hand carved Inukshuk at
Alberta Broker's Convention

Ray Wallis, the Managing Partner of Soltys Insurance Agencies in Edmonton, Alberta, was the winner of a hand carved Inukshuk on May 8 at this years Alberta Broker's Convention. Soltys is a member of the Western Financial Group. Held at Jasper Park Lodge, the meeting and conference was, as usual, well attended. Ray beat out the competition in the draw for this piece of art.

The soapstone was carved by a local Canadian native artist and is one of a series Totten Group has commissioned in 2007. These will be presented at broker conventions across Canada during the year.

Well done Ray!

 


 


James Hui, Vice President of Broker Team wins Inukshuk at Toronto Friendship Night.

James Hui, Vice President of Broker Team Insurance Solutions in Markham, was the lucky winner in a draw on Thursday, May 3rd for a hand carved Inukshuk donated by Totten Group. The Insurance Brokers Toronto Region hosts this annual event for Brokers, Underwriters, Marketers, Adjusters, Producers and Support Staff.

The soapstone carving was done by a Canadian native artist and is one of a series commissioned by Totten Group to be awarded at various conventions and broker gatherings across Canada in 2007.

Congratulations James!

 


 

Bev Pilgrim of HED Insurance is the winner of carving at
Manitoba Broker's Convention.

Bev Pilgrim, a marketer for HED Insurance in Winnipeg was the winner of a hand carved Inukshuk on May 4th at this years Manitoba Broker's Convention. Held in Winnipeg this year, the annual meeting and conference was well attended, and Bev walked away with the original soapstone carving.

The soapstone was carved by a local Canadian native artist and is one of a series Totten Group has commissioned in 2007. These will be presented at broker conventions across Canada during the year.

Congratulations Bev!

 



Sports Can in Vancouver advises of the death of Conrad Speirs

It was with great sadness we at Totten Group learned of the death of the President and CEO of Sports Can Insurance Consultants, Mr. Conrad Speirs, on Saturday March 17th. Conrad was a business associate and a friend, as well as a worthy competitor, and we extend our sympathy to his family and staff in Vancouver.

He had battled cancer for almost three years and his death leaves a void in the insurance industry, that will not be easily filled. The funeral service will be held April 4th in Vancouver. Any of us who had the pleasure of knowing or dealing with Conrad have lost a confidant and trusted advisor, as well as the industry losing one of its best.

He will be truly missed.





Nancy Impens graduates with Accounting Certificate

H. Ross Totten FCIP, CCIB, President & CEO, was pleased to present Nancy with a "graduation present" today, in the form of a financial reward for completing her Accounting Certificate from Fanshawe College. Nancy completed 13 courses, each a minimum of 12 weeks, in computer operations, accounting, Microsoft Excel, cost accounting and taxation, among others.

Nancy is the Senior Accounting Clerk in Totten Group and has been with the firm since July 2004. With over 12 years experience Nancy saw fit to continue her education and we applaud her for tenacity and hard work. With a new family and full days at the office, she still took the time to attend class, prepare homework and study for the successful completion of her exams.

We congratulate Nancy and thank her for her ongoing dedication to continued learning.





In Memory of Mary Goodbrand

It is with deep regret and profound sadness that H. Ross Totten, FCIP, CCIB, announces the passing, Monday, of our colleague and friend Mary Goodbrand.

After a nine month heroic struggle, Mary lost her battle to cancer on December 4th, 2006. She was a loyal and admired member of Team Totten, having joined our company at it's beginning. As a member of the Professional Liability division and as the underwriter who handled our Special Events and Hole in One coverages, she represented our firm in a professional and friendly manner at all times.

Mary's laughter and bright personality will be missed not only by her co-workers in our Mississauga office, but by all of us who had the privilege of knowing her. Our industry, and Totten Group especially, are much better off for having had Mary with us for this too brief a period of time.





Tracy Green joins Totten Group's Professional Liability Division

H. Ross Totten, FCIP, CCIB, President & CEO, is very pleased to announce that Tracy Green will be joining Team Totten effective today, Monday, November 27th. Many of you know Tracy already, and her fine reputation in the Professional Liability field. She is a knowledgeable underwriter specializing in Medical Malpractice insurance, with superior administrative skills and is a tremendous team player.

A known self starter with a passion and skill for marketing, not only the products she personally deals with, but the company she represents as well, Tracy will be a fine addition to our Mississauga staff and our growth overall.

With our growth in Professional liability and new products launched, and about to be launched in the new year, Tracy will be a valuable addition to our team in this area.



Totten Insurance Group acquires EMC Underwriting
(Excess Markets Corporation)

H. Ross Totten FCIP, CCIB, President and CEO of Totten Insurance Group, and Eugene Yen, President of EMC Underwriting announced today that they have signed an agreement whereby Totten Group and EMC will join forces effective January 1, 2007.

EMC is an Intermediary with a 15 year distinguished history, dealing in special risk property and casualty accounts in the province of Ontario. Eugene and his staff will be joining Team Totten bringing with them years of experience in this field, as well as new markets and enhanced facilities in the Special Risk division of the company. Eugene will become a partner in Totten Group and will be a member of the Management Committee of the firm.

The newly expanded Special Risk division of Totten Group will have enhanced markets, higher property binding limits and broader liability facilities. In addition, procedures will be improved to provide brokers of both offices better service, with quicker turn around times for quotes and answers to broker’s enquiries, through the use of improved technology.

As well, the full range of products offered by Totten Group, backed by a number of national and international markets, will be available to EMC’s broker force. These include Professional Liability, Specialty Personal Lines, Special Events, Builders Risk, Regular lines Property and Casualty business, D&O, Liability for difficult classes such as roofers, remediation contractors, welders, US products etc., and many more…..

The highly motivated and proven team from EMC will enhance Totten Group’s growing position as a provider of specialty niche products to brokers across the country.

Further details will be announced in the near future, and additional information about Totten Group may be found on our website.



London Office has Moved

After four years of continued growth the Head Office of Totten Insurance Group has moved.... right next door.

When - Friday, October 6th

Where - 557 Southdale Road East, London
Same - Suite Number 105 & Postal Code N6E 1A2

Phone Number: 519.668.6111 or 1.888.868.8367 Fax Number: 1.888.232.2205





Caring Award for London & Middlesex United Way
awarded to Totten Insurance Group

H. Ross Totten FCIP, CCIB, President & CEO of Totten Group was proud to receive, on behalf of the entire Team Totten staff, this award at the recent Caring Awards celebration dinner Every two years, the Caring Awards celebrate and recognize the extraordinary achievements of organizations within the community. Thirty two businesses and organizations were nominated in six categories, and Totten Group was the winner for Small Business. Ross was joined by the London staff of Totten Group at the dinner.

"The businesses and organizations nominated demonstrate outstanding community support. Community is part of their culture. They are valuable partners, doing great things, in a variety of community causes" stated Helen Connell, Executive Director of the United Way.

Nominations are reviewed based on Volunteer Time and Effort; Encouraging the Spirit of Philanthropy; Demonstrating Leadership in Volunteering and Financial Support in the Community. The award is an original sculpture created by artist Susan Gottselig from her Celebration series.

Totten Group would like to thank the United Way of London & Middlesex, and specifically Craigwood Youth Services for nominating us for this great honour.



Laura Moses, CIP, CAIB promoted to
Senior Vice President of Totten Insurance Group

H. Ross Totten, FCIP, CCIB. President & CEO of Totten Insurance Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Laura Moses CIP, CAIB to the position of Senior Vice President of the group.

Laura has many years experience as both a company underwriter and in placing unique, niche accounts with national insurance intermediaries. With a strong background in property, casualty and multi-peril accounts, she is experienced in dealing with domestic and international markets, especially Lloyds.

She has been involved in various divisions of Totten Group since its inception in 2003, and currently serves on the Management Committee and Board of Directors of the firm. Laura is a strong proponent of education within our industry and leads by example in this area.

Laura will continue her responsibilities for underwriting and production of major niche accounts for Totten Group, in addition to her new duties in senior management.

 




INSURANCE INSTITUTE ONTARIO -
CIP SOCIETY IS PLEASED TO PRESENT
SYMPOSIUM 2006

The CIP Society is proud to host its second annual industry symposium. This year's one-day forum, "Industry Impact - Present and Future," will feature dynamic keynote and seminar speakers. These industry leaders will provide invaluable insight and vision needed to navigate the ever-changing metrics of our industry.

Choose from a variety of interactive, cutting-edge workshops to design your own personalized program. At the conclusion of the day's seminars, delegates will discuss issues with an outstanding industry leadership panel followed by a cocktail reception.

Tuesday, April 4, 2006
Board of Trade, First Canadian Place, 4th Floor, Toronto

RIBO Accreditation:
Management and Technical Categories for a total of 7.0 hours
Actual accreditation will depend upon seminars chosen

For more information, visit http://cip.iic-iac.org/symposium2006 or contact Diana Hancock at
e-mail: dhancock@iic-iac.org
Tel: (416) 865-2719
Fax: (416) 362-8081

 




LINDA FLOWERS APPOINTED AVP OF AUGUST GROUP RISK MANAGEMENT

H. Ross Totten FCIP, CCIB, President & CEO, is pleased to announce that Linda Flowers, FCIP has been promoted to the position of Assistant Vice President of August Group Risk Management, a division of Totten Insurance Group Inc. effective immediately.

AGRM underwrites commercial property and casualty, as well as commercial auto business, with Aviva Canada on behalf of a network of select Ontario brokers. The network was formed to share information between professional, commercial oriented brokerages representing the entire province. AGRM was formed in 1995 as an offshoot of this network, and was acquired by Totten Insurance Group as a wholly owned division, in 2004.

Linda has been with August Group Risk Management since it's founding, and has most recently been Underwriting Manager of the firm. She has been an active participant in the growth of the company, seeing it from start up to over $20mm in annual volume.

In her new position as senior manager of the division Linda will be responsible for all day to day operations and will report to H. Ross Totten, FCIP CCIB, President & CEO of the company. Linda will also continue as a member of the Management Team of Totten Group. Please join me in offering your congratulations to Linda on this well deserved promotion.


TERRY GUDMUNDSON JOINS TEAM TOTTEN AND OPENS NEW WINNIPEG OFFICE

H. Ross Totten, FCIP, CCIB, President & CEO of Totten Insurance Group is pleased to announce Terry Gudmundson has joined the firm as Manager, Manitoba/Saskatchewan. Well known in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and North Western Ontario, Terry brings 30 years of insurance experience to his role at Totten Group. He brings with him a background of both Company and Intermediary experience along with a great deal of local and regional knowledge. He is well qualified to assist brokers with the placement of unusual and difficult risks.

Joining Terry in the new Winnipeg office is Theresa Graham. Theresa is an experienced technical assistant and a great Team Totten player.

Totten Insurance Group is an insurance wholesaler or intermediary specializing in providing solutions and niche products to retail brokers across Canada. Further details about our products and services as well as applications may be found on our website; www.tottengroup.com or by contacting Terry or Theresa at;


1615 St.Mary’s Road, Suite 206
Winnipeg, Manitoba
R2M 3W8
Local Phone: 204.255.6006

Email:
terrygudmundson@tottengroup.com
theresagraham@tottengroup.com


Toll Free:
Phone 1.888.868.8367
Fax 1.888.232.2205


Expansion in Winnipeg continues our goal to bring local knowledge and service to our national product lines and international scope of markets.



IN MEMORY OF WILLA WONG-JAVIER


It is with deep regret and great sadness that H. Ross Totten, Vern VanDusen and staff announce the passing of Willa Wong-Javier on October 2nd, 2005 at the age of 31. Willa's very sudden death as a result of a brain aneurysm, leaves behind her husband Nilo and daughters Katrina (3yrs) and Kaitlyn (7 days old). Willa will be greatly missed by her colleagues and friends at AGRM and Totten Insurance Group Inc.

AGRM/Totten Group is in the process of setting up a Trust Account for Willa's daughters and donations to the Trust can be made "In Trust" to Totten Insurance Group Inc C/O Karrie Warner Suite 105 - 555 Southdale Rd E London, Ontario N6E 1A2.


SUMMER FUN AND GAMES - CHARITIES THE WINNER

 

Terry Bradley of Whillis Harding Agencies, Kelowna B.C. is pictured here trying to hide the London Knights logo while presenting a $150 cheque to Greg McGill representing The Western Communities Foundation of Kelowna on behalf of Totten Insurance Group. Terry and Whillis Harding Agencies (WFG Agency Network Inc.) graciously paid off a bet made with Totten Insurance Group during the 2005 Memorial Cup which the London Knights WON!


 

Shown here are the winners of the 2005 Totten Insurance Group Charity Golf Day. From left to right, Terry Bellamy, Raymond Kappes, Keith Carter and Rick Albrecht. Through the support of our sponsors and participants, we are once again able to sponsor a dog for DogGuides of Canada. Thanks again for everyone's support and we look forward to doing it again next year.

 

 


 

DANIEL MOSES - NEWEST TEAM TOTTEN UNDERWRITER

Daniel joined Totten Group in July 2003 as our receptionist and technical assistant and continually expanded his knowledge and experience working in the firm. Earlier this month he returned from spending six months in England where he was employed as a junior broker by BMS Harris & Dixon. Daniel gained extensive knowledge in the day to day operations of Lloyd's, and the placement of accounts, especially from Canada. This will further assist he, and Totten Group, to better serve our brokers across Canada in placement of accounts with Lloyd's.

Based on this intense training and his service to date with the Group, Daniel has been promoted to the position of Underwriter within Team Totten. He looks forward to putting his new found skills to work for our retail brokers across Canada, in both property and liability placements.

 


KARRIE WARNER PROMOTED TO AVP FINANCE & IT

 

H. Ross Totten FCIP, CCIB announced that Karrie Warner has been promoted to the position of AVP Finance & IT effective immediately. "Karrie has been with the firm almost since it's inception, and has been actively involved in all aspects of our finance and IT departments. She has been instrumental in overseeing the development of these divisions, and her hard work and dedication have resulted in our successful expansion in these areas."

Karrie is a member of the Totten Group Management Team, and will continue to be involved in overseeing and development of new technology for the firm in the months ahead.

 


 

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