Posted: 4/1/2010

NAMIC Personal Lines Seminar, April 10-12, 2013, Chicago, Ill.

Event Contact

Lauren Spencer
Meeting Planner
317.876.4255

General Information

Professionals for personal lines carrier must constantly sharpen their skills and stay current on trends and research. This annual event is focused specifically for underwriting, marketing (agent relations/business development), and product development professionals where we provide the unique opportunity for attendees to gather valuable information on current issues and operational excellence. We incorporate discussions on technology solutions and emerging issues as well. As with every NAMIC event, attendees will have the opportunity to network with peers facing similar issues and gain insights to put to work back at the office. The Personal Lines Seminar offers extended networking and discussion opportunities in the new "unconference" discussion sessions.

We specifically develop our educational programming with our members in mind. NAMIC is comprised of a diverse membership and there are a variety of events to meet your needs. This seminar is designed for personal lines underwriters and marketing executives from property/casualty insurance companies.

"As a first time attendee I thought this seminar was outstanding. It gave me information about different topics in the industry, as well as a chance to find out what others are facing and ideas on how to find solutions to some of our similar problems, and as always Networking, Networking, Networking! Great seminar!"

-Mary LeValley
Director of Marketing and Product Development
Millville Mutual Insurance Company

This event is intended for:

Mid-upper Level Personal Lines Underwriters
Personal Lines Product Development Specialists
Personal Lines Managers

Agency Development Managers
Service Providers Specializing in Personal Lines Products

Personal Lines Committee Members

Chairman Joe Fullenkamp Assistant Vice President, Personal Lines The Motorist Group	David Bordenkecher, CPCU Claims Manager Indiana Farmers Mutual Insurance Company	GaeAnn Cormier Assistant Vice President Hartford Steam Boiler Inspection & Insurance Company
Elliot Ebel Regional Underwriting Manager PURE Insurance Company	Sarah Fischer Personal Lines Product Specialist MMG Insurance	Mark Ginther AVP, USAA Insurance Agency USAA
Marc Guess Personal Lines Product Specialist State Automobile Mutual Insurance Company	Terri Hayes Personal Lines Product Portfolio Administrator American Family Mutual Insurance Company	Bobi Lambert-Kwarciany, CIP Property Underwriter Townsend Farmers Mutual Fire Insurance Company
Mary LeValley Director, Marketing and Product Development Millville Mutual Insurance Company	Bruce Lidstrom, CPCU Department Manager, Auto Underwriting North Star Mutual Insurance Company	Karen Meyer Vice President, Treaty Account Executive General Reinsurance Corporation
Brent Spraker Product Manager PEMCO Mutual Insurance Company	Debbie Wagner Vice President of Sales e2Value, Inc.

Seminar Registration Fees

Registrations received on or before Wednesday, March 13, 2013 are applicable to receive the early bird discount.

	On or before March 13	March 14 and later
PFMM*	$476	$556
Member	$595	$695
Non Member	$795	$895
Member - Multiple Attendee Discount**	$525	N/A
Sponsor	$595	$695
Optional Workshop	$225	$225
Optional Networking Dinner: Pizza Party	$30	$30
Optional Networking Dinner & Hancock Observatory	$75	$75
*To qualify for the PFMM Designates registration rate, you must have earned the Professional Farm Mutual Manager (PFMM) designation and be current in the program. This discount only applies to individuals with the PFMM designation and is not transferable to others within your company.
**Available for member early registrations with 4+ attendees from the same company registering for the event.

First Time Attendees

We want to know if this is your first time to participate in the NAMIC Personal Lines Seminar so we can get to know you and provide you with some valuable networking opportunities. Don't be shy, please indicate on your registration form if you are a first time attendee. We are excited to meet you!

Registration Confirmation

You will receive a detailed e-mail confirmation upon successful completion of the registration process for this event; please make sure to enter a valid e-mail address on the registration form. If you have any questions regarding your registration, please e-mail registrar@namic.org or call (800) 336-2642, ext. 1027.

Registration Cancellations

All registration cancellations and transfers MUST be made in writing. Cancellations received on or before March 13, 2013 are 100 percent refundable. After March 13, 2013 a $25 processing fee will be deducted. Refunds will be issued within 15 business days after receipt of the cancellation notice. No refunds are available after March 27, 2013 so please plan accordingly. You may substitute a participant at no additional charge. Please forward all requests to registrar@namic.org or fax (317) 876-6213. Cancelling a seminar registration with NAMIC does not cancel a hotel reservation.

Accommodations

In accordance with Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act, we invite all registrants to advise us of any disability and any requests for accommodation to that disability. Please submit your request as far in advance of the program as possible.

What to Wear

The suggested attire for this meeting is business casual.

Questions?

If you have any questions regarding your registration, e-mail registrar@namic.org or call (800) 336-2642 ext. 1027. If you have any questions regarding the seminar, e-mail lspencer@namic.org or call (800) 336-2642 ext. 1055.

Seminar Agenda

Subject to change without notice

Wednesday, April 10

7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.	Registration
8:30 – 11:30 a.m.	Optional Workshop: Essential Skills for Becoming a Successful Personal Lines Leader Separate registration required A promising new underwriting manager can be an integral part of a company’s success in the personal lines market. As a new personal lines manager or aspiring manager, you have initial skills needed to contribute to your organization but what are the essential skills needed to excel as a personal lines team leader or manager? Join Ann Myhr, CPCU, ARM, ASLI, AU,* senior director of knowledge resources, The Institutes, to discuss the vital areas that should be developed to succeed as a personal lines leader within your organization. Ann will address understanding dynamic company financials and your direct impact on the company balance sheet. You will also gain new knowledge of analytics and the emerging resources available to assist in portfolio management. And lastly, she will address communication skills of effective leaders. Ann Myhr, CPCU, ARM, ASLI, AU (read bio >>) Senior Director of Knowledge Resources The Institutes Malvern, Pa.
1 – 6 p.m.	Sponsor Showcase
1 – 1:15 p.m.	Welcome and Introductions Joe Fullenkamp, Committee Chairman Assistant Vice President, Personal Lines The Motorist Insurance Group Columbus, Ohio
1:15 – 2:15 p.m.	Keynote Address: Industry Outlook: 2013 and Beyond Join Dr. Steven Weisbart, senior vice president & chief economist, Insurance Information Institute, to kick off the seminar with an information-packed presentation providing a comprehensive overview of the outlook of the property/casualty insurance industry and provide insight on what has happened in our industry and economy during the past year as well as what might be in store for the year ahead. Steven Weisbart (read bio >>) Senior Vice President & Chief Economist Insurance Information Institute New York, N.Y.
2:15 – 2:35 p.m.	Break In sponsor showcase foyer
2:35 – 3:50 p.m.	General Session: Engaging the Millennial Generation The workplace is filled with significant generational differences and associated challenges between Traditionalists, Boomers, Generation X-er’s, and the newest group—the Millennials. The Millennials are the generation born between 1982 and 2000 that were formed by attentive, helicopter parents, schools that propagate high self-esteem, and an ingrained comfort and dependency on technology. The Millennials learn, think, develop differently and must be managed differently. Jason Young, president, LeadSmart, Inc., encourages leaders not to judge but to coach and manage this group differently and to tap into such Millennial talents as speed, social networking, and collaboration. Learn how various generations can complement each other as Jason makes a strong case for leveraging the value and strengths of younger generations in the workplace. Jason Young (read bio >>) President LeadSmart, Inc. Dallas, Texas
3:50 – 4:00 p.m.	Break In sponsor showcase foyer
4 - 5 p.m.	Roundtable Discussions Join other personal lines professionals in roundtable disccusions focused on industry changes and emerging issues. These interactive groups will allow you to discuss challenges you may be facing every day with peers. Email if you would like to lead a roundtable discussion or have discussion topic ideas, to Lauren Spencer.
5- 6 p.m.	Networking Reception Enjoy this great networking opportunity! Drinks and light hors d’oeuvres will be provided in the sponsor showcase, where we are pleased to introduce personal lines-specific vendors who will be presenting the latest in personal lines products and services.
6:00 p.m.	Meeting adjourns for the day
6:45 p.m.	Optional Networking Dinner: Pizza Party You can’t visit Chicago and not enjoy some deep dish pizza! Join us for a pizza party at Bongiorno’s! We will enjoy salad, pasta and of course pizza. Soft drinks, coffee and tea are included with dinner. The cost of this activity is $30.

Thursday, April 11

7:30 - 8:30 p.m.	Continental Breakfast
7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.	Sponsor Showcase
8:30 - 9:30 a.m.	Concurrent Sessions Driving Beyond the Buzz: Emerging New Rules & Strategic Considerations for Insurance Telematics There is a lot of energy, focus, and buzz pertaining to insurance telematics. Everyone is talking about it, some are working on it, and fewer are doing it. But for those less far along, being a fast follower may not currently be a disadvantage as long as carriers are familiar with telematics’ strategies, possibilities, and its future. During this informative session, John Lucker, principal, Deloitte Consulting, LLP, will explore: The drivers behind telematics’ disruptive potential The adoption and growth of telematics Opportunities across the insurance value chain Considerations for telematics strategy and capabilities Thoughts on how to get started with telematics The future of telematics John Lucker Principal Deloitte Consulting, LLP Hartford, Conn. Creating High Performance Teams This session introduces and reinforces the key elements of High Performing Teams through an interactive and individualized learning experience. Join Amanda Spraker, SPHR, senior consultant, Performance Dimensions Group, for an opportunity to assess your team's effectiveness and alignment with the three elements of HP Teams (Charter, Design & Relationship). With the background and awareness of their existing team make-up, participants will then be introduced to tools and strategies achieving greater effectiveness within their own teams. During this interactive learning experience, attendees will: Learn the definition and elements of High Performance Teams & how they differ from traditional work groups Gain an understanding of your existing team's performance, effectiveness and gaps Explore tools to help build & manage high performance teams (shifting from Traditional Leadership to Empowering Leadership) Amanda Spraker, SPHR (read bio >>) Principal Deloitte Consulting, LLP Hartford, Conn. Not So Tweet and Innocent—How Social Media Impacts Personal Lines The increasing use of social media and the internet is presenting insurers with additional areas of risk in the personal lines. Join Matt Cullina, CEO, Identity Theft 911, to discuss the evolution of the internet and social media and how this impacts personal lines risk. Matt will also address risk mitigation tools and best practices to protect your policyholders. Through case study examples, attendees can see the success of these risk mitigation tools and best practices. Matt Cullina (read bio >>) CEO Identity Theft 911 Scottsdale, Ariz. “Unconference Session”: Managing a Virtual Team Managing Virtual Employees is different than managing employees who are in the office every day. Learn how to build and sustain a highly-productive virtual team. Kevin Sheridan Chief Engagement Officer Kevin Sheridan, LLC Winnetka, Ill.
9:30 - 9:50 a.m.	Break In Sponsor Showcase Foyer
9:50 - 10:50 a.m.	Concurrent Sessions Analytics – Uncovering Hidden Gems in Underwriting Predictive analytics provides a process and a framework to better select both new and renewal policies for underwriting review. Wendy Hopfensperger, personal lines expert, Valen® Technologies, examines the evolution of predictive analytics in personal lines using case study examples provides valuable insights into lessons learned, best practices, and the latest applications in underwriting focused on insurance-to-value, conditions & hazards, by peril, etc. Generally carriers focus their underwriting efforts largely on new business, and can suffer negative impacts to their book’s overall performance by neglecting to evaluate renewals in a systematic fashion. Wendy will also address the challenge carriers face is that it is difficult to identify which policies to review at a given point in time. Wendy Hopfensperger Personal Lines Product Expert Valen® Technologies Denver, Colo. Changing Role of the Personal Lines Underwriter: Attributes for Continued Future Success During this session, Sue Baker, manager insurance services, Ontario Mutual Insurance Association, will explore the perceptions of personal lines underwriters as to how the job that they did supported the business goal of the company 20 years ago, 10 years ago and 5 years ago. The conversation will continue on to a discussion of what personal lines underwriters should expect of themselves in what they ‘bring to the table’ when carrying out the job function of personal lines underwriter. During this session, participants will: Explore how the role of the personal lines underwriter has evolved Create a list of skills and competencies that underwritings are currently using and developing to use in their role Examine how the role of the underwriting might change during the next few years and what skills might be need Sue Baker Manager Insurance Services Ontario Mutual Insurance Association Cambridge, ON Emerging Personal Lines Cause of Loss Trends What are the top losses the P&C personal lines industry is now seeing? Join Liz Kramer, vice president, Gen Re, to explore the potential liability trends for home and auto owners, discuss some large loss examples, and examine emerging liability issues. Additionally, Liz will share information on Gen Re’s newest cause of loss study to provide an overview of what is being seen today. Liz Kramer (read bio >>) Vice President Gen Re Stamford, Conn “Unconference Session”: Sustaining High Performing Teams An interactive follow to the Creating High Performance Teams session, dive deeper into building and sustaining High Performing Teams, this 'un-conference' session will give participants an opportunity to work the tools and exercises introduced during the earlier presentation on High Performing Teams. Participants will identify a specific area to focus on strengthening for their team, and be partnered with others who are working on that same focus area. Designed as an interactive workshop, participants will have the time, tools and facilitation to focus on ways to strengthen their individual work teams. Discussion Facilitator: Amanda Spraker, SPHR(read bio >>) Senior Consultant Performance Dimensions Group Seattle, Wash.
10:50 - 11:10 a.m.	Break In Sponsor Showcase Foyer
11:10 a.m. - 12:10 p.m.	Concurrent Sessions Getting The Most Out of Your Inspection Optimization Program Join this open and interactive discussion on how to get the most out of your field inspection program. Skip Coan, executive vice president, business development, Reliable Reports, to examine what type of short term and long term ROI you can expect for your program, how to maximize the results, target risk and determine what inspection reports to use. Skip will also explore strategies to get agents and customers to support the inspection programs as willing participants. Skip Coan Executive Vice President, Business Development Reliable Reports Lewisville, Texas Changing Weather Patterns in North America No doubt about it, we’ve experienced crazy weather lately. Join Mark Bove, CPCU, ARe, senior research meteorologist, Munich Re America, to learn what we might be facing in the future and how that will affect our industry during this important session. Mark Bove, CPCU, ARe Senior Research Meteorologist Munich Reinsurance America Princeton, N.J. Insuring Additional Interests: Trusts and Other Financial Entities Almost all personal lines policies deal with additional interests. Most common are loss payee’s on auto policies and mortgages for homeowners/property. However, how do you insure a trust? What exactly is a trust? Your insured wants to add a LLC as an Additional Insured. How do the policy forms accommodate that need? Or even more challenging the insured is setting up a tax shelter and the entity needs to be protected as an additional insured. Join Gregory Thomas, of-counsel, Ramey & Hailey, to address the most common additional insured interest situations, how these are set up and how you insure these additional interests. Gregory Thomas Of-Counsel Ramey & Hailey Indianapolis, Ind. “Unconference Session”: In-Depth Social Media Case Study As discussed in the previous Not So Tweet and Innocent – How Social Media Impacts Personal Lines session, the increasing use of social media is placing additional risk on insurers. Take a closer look at the recent case studies regarding social media and personal injury claims. Discussion Facilitators: Duane Cable Client Relations Manager Identity Theft 911 Columbus, Ohio Dave Guild Business Development Director Identity Theft 911 Scottsdale, Ariz.
12:10 - 1:00 p.m.	Lunch
1:00 - 2:00 p.m.	Concurrent Sessions Emerging Issue: The Effect of Mobile Connectivity on Risk, Loss, and Rate Analysis Texting and driving can increase the risk of a car accident by 2,300% and the number continues to climb. Take part this emerging issue session to learn what the tech sector is developing to help address the issues of distracted driving, specifically phone use while driving and how these developments can affect your policyholders and personal lines business. Kevin Coppolino, vice president corporate development, Cellcontrol, and Dwight Hakim, director telematics, Verisk Analytics, will explain how this new technology can reduce loss and loss cost, how you can perform risk assessment based on mobile device usage, and how your underwriting team can successfully use the analytical information obtained. Kevin Coppolino Vice President Corporate Development Cellcontrol Atlanta, Ga. Dwight Hakim Director, Telematics Verisk Analytics Jersey City, N.J. Innovative Problem Solving Peter Drucker, the Father of Modern Management, said that business is simply marketing and innovation. Join this interactive session lead by strategic business coach, Sarah Bryant, to explore process management innovation and problem solving by thinking “outside the box”. Sarah will help you tap into your “right brain” intelligence and explore three exercises for greater personal innovation. Sarah Bryant Strategic Business Coach Ugly Mug Consulting Chicago, Ill. Entering & Optimizing a Direct to Consumer Distribution Channel During this session, you will examine the impact of the direct channel on independent agency and captive agency carriers. Ron Somich, marketing director, and Phil Wintering, managing partner, Outperform Associates, LLC, will address some of the key challenges in acquiring direct channel business and success drivers and the impact of scale in the direct channel and explore the impact on your agents. Ron Somich Marketing Director Outperform Associates, LLC Aurora, Ohio Phil Wintering Managing Partner Outperform Associates, LLC Aurora, Ohio “Unconference Session”: Beyond the Bottom Line --Effective Negotiation Skills Whether buying a new car or seeking a raise or closing a multi-million dollar business deal, every day is filled with opportunities to negotiate better outcomes. Based on the negotiation principles outlined in, “Getting to Yes,” this interactive, discussion-based session will help you distinguish between positional bargaining and interest-based bargaining and to develop concrete skills to become more effective negotiators. Juliana Stratton, J.D. President JDS Mediation Services, Inc. Chicago, Ill.
2 - 2:20 p.m.	Break In sponsor showcase foyer
2:20 - 3:20 p.m.	Concurrent Sessions Practical Ways for Reducing Your Exposure to Catastrophic Water Losses Most of us are seeing 25-40 cents of every dollar paid out in residential claims is due to water damage. During this informative session, Stephanie Lafica, director of client services, Sentinel Hydrosolutions, LLC, will discuss the full spectrum of advances available in the technology of “water security” and how insurers have successfully begun to take practical steps to reduce their exposure and losses to this ever-present challenge. Stephanie Lafica Director of Client Services Sentinel Hydrosolutions, LLC Escondido, Calif. The Psychology of Aging and its Influence on Managing Risk Peter Hubbell, founder and CEO, BoomAgers, will facilitate a highly interactive brain-storming session focused on developing specific products for Boomers who are now re-thinking their relationships and areas of risk. As the 80-million-plus aging Boomers in the US come to terms with the emergence of “home-centricity” as a cultural lifestyle they will proudly impact the types and costs of products and services they purchase from insurers in very specific and predictable ways. At the conclusion of this session, Peter will have provided you with actionable ideas for new products targeted to Boomers and a product-development process model—a new way of thinking about creating and marketing products to the new 50+ cohort. Peter Hubbell Founder & CEO BoomAgers New York, N.Y. Mastering Change What really motivates change? Why do some shifts happen instantly and others take a lifetime? Where can you find “critical mass”? Understanding the equation for personal change management is half the battle. Strategic business coach, Sarah Bryant, will provide you a five step process that will teach you effortlessly change your personal or organizational culture. Sarah Bryant Strategic Business Coach Ugly Mug Consulting Chicago, Ill. “Unconference Session”: The Effect of Mobile Connectivity Join this follow up in-depth discussion with our panel of experts to answer your questions and take a deeper dive into this emerging issue for property/casualty insurers. Kevin Coppolino and Al Blanton will provide additional case study information and discussion and answer your questions regarding the launch of this new technology. Discussion Facilitators: Al Blanton Executive Vice President Axiom Re Lawrenceville, N.J. Kevin Coppolino Vice President Corporate Development Cellcontrol Atlanta, Ga.
3:20 p.m.	Meeting adjourns for the day
6:00 p.m.	Optional Networking Dinner & Hancock Observatory Enjoy an evening filled with fabulous food and spectacular views of the city. Participants will depart from the Hyatt main lobby at 6:00 p.m. and travel by luxury motor coach to Francesca’s for dinner. Located in the Gold Coast neighborhood, Francesca’s offers rustic Italian cuisine in a quaint trattoria setting. After dinner, guests will visit the observation deck of the Hancock Observatory to take in the beauty of the Chicago skyline by night. The cost of this activity is $75

Friday, April 12

7:30 – 8:30 a.m.	Continental Breakfast
7:30 - 10:05 a.m.	Sponsor Showcase
8:30 - 9:45 a.m.	General Session: Personal Lines Trends and Benchmarking The insurance industry faces challenges affecting virtually every aspect of the business, including regulatory, economic and catastrophic exposures. While most P&C insurers believe they are prepared to meet business challenges, many carriers are working to ensure the processes and organization structure are properly aligned to maximize the efficiency of the organization. Join Jeff Rieder, partner, Ward Group, to discuss major operational trends within the insurance industry and review key trends relating to the personal lines functions. Particular focus will be on changes in staffing, technology and other strategic initiatives for personal lines executives. Jeff Rieder Partner Ward Group Cincinnati, Ohio
9:45 - 10:05 a.m.	Break
10:05 - 11:20 a.m.	General Session: The Age of Aging Are the Boomers the Next Big Thing? Join Peter Hubbel, founder and CEO, BoomAgers, to examine the emerging trends that will impact the global economy as many of the world’s population (almost half) are over the age 50. Peter will examine how the Boomers continue to be the most powerful cultural and economic force in the world and provide an analysis of their values and attitudes towards brands, products, and marketing message. Peter Hubbell Founder & CEO BoomAgers New York, N.Y.
11:20 a.m.	Seminar Concludes

Where to Stay

Hyatt Regency Chicago

Hyatt Regency Chicago
151 East Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60601
Ph: (312) 565-1234
Fax (312) 239-4414

Simply the best. Discover the difference between a hotel and a Hyatt when you stay at our incomparable downtown Chicago, Illinois hotel. Set within the epicenter of the city, the Hyatt Regency Chicago is conveniently connected to the Illinois Center and within minutes of the Magnificent Mile. Sway to the electrified beat of Chicago blues and jazz greats, take in a show at Navy Pier, shop on Michigan Avenue, or enjoy a day in the park or on the water. Our cosmopolitan downtown Chicago, Illinois hotel is central to it all.

Event Hotel Rate And Cut Off Date

Rate: $179.00 plus taxes per night for single/double occupancy.

Hyatt Regency Chicago

Personal Lines Seminar attendees are responsible for making their own travel and hotel arrangements. NAMIC has contracted a room block for attendees at the Hyatt Regency. A set number of rooms are available at the group rate until 5:00 p.m. Central Time on Wednesday, March 27, 2013 or until the group block is sold out, whichever comes first. While NAMIC studies past attendance trends and the needs of our members, we cannot guarantee rooms will be available. Please plan ahead and secure your reservation as soon as possible to receive the group rate. Refer to the NAMIC group rate when making your reservation at the hotel.

Hotel Reservations

To reserve your room online, please click here to access our group reservations website.

To reserve your room by phone, contact the Hyatt Regency Chicago directly at (888) 421-1442 and mention you are with the NAMIC Personal Lines Seminar in order to receive our special group rate.

Please contact Lauren Spencer if you encounter any problems with making hotel reservations.

Travel Information

Getting to the Hyatt Regency Chicago is Easy!

Get customized directions to the Hyatt Regency's front door!

The Hyatt Regency is located in downtown Chicago on East Wacker Drive between Michigan Avenue and North Columbus Drive. For customized, door-to door driving directions, please click here or your preferred mapping website.

Convenient parking!

The Hyatt Regency offers valet parking for its guests at a rate of $52 per 24 hours with in and out privileges. There are also a variety of Self Park complexes in the area that offer a variety of rates. For a complete listing of self parking garages in the Chicago area, please visit www.chicagotraveler.com.

Ground Transportation

O'hare - The round trip shared van shuttle cost for one person traveling is approximately $27.00. A rate discount may be available for groups of two or more people, traveling to and from the same location at the same time. Airport Express tickets/ reservations can be made online at www.airportexpress.com. Tickets may also be purchased at O'Hare airport in the terminals at Door 1E, Door 2D, and Door 3E across from Baggage Claim on the Baggage Claim level. Reservations are recommended.

Estimated taxi fare from Chicago O'Hare International is $40 depending upon traffic.

Rail transportation is available from O'Hare. From O'Hare International Airport, take the CTA Blue Line toward Forrest Park exiting at the Clark and Lake stop. From this point, the hotel is a 5 minute walk. Head 2 blocks east on Lake Drive, take a left on North State Street walking one block north to East Wacker Drive. Hyatt Regency is 3 blocks down on East Wacker Drive.

Midway - The round trip cost for one person traveling is approximately $30.00. A rate discount may be available for groups of two ore more people, traveling to and from the same location at the same time. Airport Express tickets/ reservations can be made online at www.airportexpress.com. Tickets may also be purchased at the door three lower level ticket counter across from the Baggage Claim in Midway Airport. Reservations are recommended.

Estimated taxi fare from Midway Airport is $37 depending upon traffic.

Rail transportation is available from Midway airport. The fee is $2.75 per person. From Midway Airport, take the CTA Orange Line direction Loop to the State and Lake exit. From this point, the hotel is a 3 minute walk. Head right from the rail exit, walk 1 block north to East Wacker Drive. Hyatt Regency is approximately 3 blocks from the intersection.

Area Attractions

While visiting the Windy City you will want to be sure to visit many of the area's local attractions. There's something for everyone in Chicago, whether you want to take in a show, listen to some fabulous Chicago Blues, shop until you drop, or just explore the city. Check out these links below for more information.

Music Venues

Blue Chicago
Enjoy some live Blues music at nearby Blue Chicago. This famous club, and its sister club Blue Chicago on Clark, are just a short cab ride away from the Sofitel. These clubs offer one nightly admission fee to both venues so that you can enjoy the best of both worlds.
House of Blues
Live entertainment is just a hop, skip and a jump away at The House of Blues. This famous venue hosts a variety of national musical acts on a daily basis. For those of you just interested in entertaining your taste buds, The House of Blues is also home to a restaurant that serves delta inspired southern cuisine in a laid back atmosphere.
Andy's Jazz Club and Restaurant
If your musical taste is geared more towards jazz, then you won't want to miss Andy's Jazz Club. For 29 years, Andy's has presented the best jazz Chicago has to offer. One of the most respected establishments; historic Andy's offers casual dinning and live jazz on a daily basis, with sets at lunchtime, late afternoon and into the evening.
Museum of Science & Industry
Get inspired and explore the great world of science at the Museum of Science and Industry. This fabulous museum is home to a variety of exhibits that appeal to children and adults of all ages. The museum also hosts an OMNIMAX theater that is an attraction of its own. The theater itself is a 72' dome that is approximately 5 stories tall and seats 342 guests. Seeing a movie at the OMNIMAX is quite an experience. Both the exhibits and movies at the museum change frequently, so check out the museum's web page for more detailed information regarding upcoming attractions.
The Magnificent Mile
This world famous shopping area is home to four major shopping centers, fabulous boutiques, and much more.
John Hancock Observatory
Catch a bird's eye view of Chicago on the new Hancock Observatory. The spectacular view from the observatory can span 80 miles over four states on a clear day. Since the recent renovation, there are a variety of attractions including an audio sky tour and detailed history wall detailing the rise of the Hancock Building. The observatory is open daily.
Shedd Aquarium
Take the grand exploration of Shedd Aquarium. Shedd Aquarium boasts itself as the World's Aquarium. Opened in 1929, it is one of the oldest public Aquariums in the world. When you visit Shedd, you can experience environments from around the world. The Caribbean Coral Reefs, Amazon, and Pacific Rocky Coasts are just some of the exhibits you can explore. The Shedd Aquarium takes you closer to nature in some of the world's richest ecosystems.
Navy Pier
Navy Pier is a showcase of unique theme restaurants, shops, exhibition facilities and an entertainment area second to none. There is an IMAX Theater, skating rink, putt-putt golf, and 150-foot carousel among the many attractions. Navy Pier offers a true Chicago experience.

Sponsorship Opportunities

The seminar for managers and young leaders in the personal lines market who are focused on efficient operations, emerging trends, strategic product development, and smart technology solutions. This event also features a popular sponsor showcase which allows sponsors to have a table for display and networking in the foyer of the meeting space.

Our most popular sponsorships for this event include:

Grand Prize Drawing: Starting at $1,500
Continental Breakfast: Starting at $2,000
Audiovisual: Starting at $2,500
Welcome Reception: Starting at $3,000
Luncheon and Dessert: Starting at $3,000
Sponsorship Showcase Tables: $1,000 with any sponsorship

Please note this is not a complete menu of options and some opportunities may have been reserved. We will be happy to help you select a successful alternative or develop a custom option for your company.

For more information, contact Amy Thornburg, advertising, sponsorship and exhibit hall manager at (800) 336-2642, ext. 1026 or at athornburg@namic.org. If you would like to learn more about NAMIC's sponsorship and advertising program, please click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the suggested attire for business and social gatherings?
Conference Sessions – Business casual
Meal Functions & Welcome Reception – Business Casual
Optional Activities - Casual

What registration payment options are available?
The online registration system accepts credit card payments, check payments and multiple registrations under the same payment method.

When and how is registration confirmation sent?
Confirmation is sent via email so please enter a valid email address. If registering more than one person at a time you will need to forward the confirmation email to each delegate. You will receive your confirmation the quickest if you are paying online. Confirmation will be sent immediately after you submit your credit card information.

Does my registration include a hotel reservation?
No, you will need to contact the Hyatt Regency Chicago to make a room reservation. NAMIC has contracted a room block for attendees at the rate of $179 per room. A set number of rooms are available at the group rate until 5:00 p.m. Central time on Wednesday, March 27, 2013 or until the group block is sold out, whichever comes first. While NAMIC studies past attendance trends and the needs of our members, we cannot guarantee rooms will be available. Please plan ahead and secure your reservation as soon as possible to receive the group rate. Refer to the NAMIC group rate when making your reservation at the hotel.

What does my registration include?
Registration fees include individual seminar resource materials and access to NAMIC sponsored meal functions including the Welcome Reception, break service, breakfast on Thursday and Friday, and lunch on Thursday.

How do I obtain an advance copy of the registration list?
In an effort to provide our sponsors, speakers, and attendees the best level of service, we will send an electronic list of current registrants for events* to the attendee or email listed as the main contact as follows:

Attendees: 30 days in advance of the event and with the pre-conference communication sent seven to ten business days in advance of the event
Sponsors and Exhibitors: bi-monthly once payment has been received
Speakers: 90 days, 60 days, and 30 days in advance of the event
NAMIC will post the list of registrants for all events including name, title, and company name approximately 30 days in advance of the event.
Questions can be directed to the event's meeting planner or the Vice President of Member Development.