Governor David A. Paterson today announced that the successful implementation of workers’ compensation reforms will reduce insurance rates for the second year in a row. The cost will decline again by about 5 percent for 2009, following a 20.5 percent decrease for 2008, for a total reduction of about 25 percent from the 2007 pre-reform rates… At the same time, maximum weekly benefits for workers, recently increased to $550 per week, will continue to rise each year until 2010 when they will be indexed at two-thirds of the average weekly wage.

“Last year’s historic agreement set the framework for workers’ compensation reform, but the savings are actually produced through the difficult work of developing and implementing the proposals. We will continue to work hard to cut costs for New York businesses and improve benefits for injured workers,” said Governor Paterson. “We have made progress. Two years ago, New York had one of the most expensive workers compensation programs in the country. Now, we have one of the least expensive. We still need to do more and I am committed to ensuring that this reform program makes New York a better place to do business and a safe and secure place to work.”

The lower rate can be credited to the successful implementation of reform legislation, which is being led by Governor Paterson. More broadly, the reform efforts are designed to reduce costs to New York businesses while increasing weekly benefits and improving medical care for injured workers. They include:

• increases in maximum weekly benefits from $400 to $500 in 2007, to $550 in 2008, $600 in 2009, and two-thirds of the statewide average weekly wage in 2010, where it will then be indexed annually;
• a streamlined system for resolving contested claims and promptly delivering benefits to injured workers, while reducing administration costs;
• increased fraud and compliance actions, including stiffer penalties, to make sure everyone plays by the same rules;
• medical treatment guidelines that will improve care at a more effective cost;
• a fair and even-handed set of guidelines for determining impairment and loss of wage earning capacity;
• fee schedules and supplier networks for pharmaceuticals, diagnostic services and medical equipment that contain medical costs.

The related reform proposals are being developed by the Workers’ Compensation Board, the Department of Labor and the New York Insurance Department, which also approves the rates for workers’ compensation insurance. These rates take effect on October 1 each year.

The 2009 rate decline is due to a new rate approval system that encourages competition among insurance companies to lower rates. The actual cost of paying claims for injured workers and the cost of a state assessment declined by 8.1 percent, according to data filed by the New York State Compensation Insurance Ratings Bureau (NYCIRB). Claims and assessments equal about 75 percent of the overall employer cost of workers compensation insurance.

Insurance Superintendent Eric R. Dinallo said: “We are determined to be creative in finding ways to reduce costs for business, while protecting workers. Encouraging insurance companies to compete by being more efficient is just one of the reforms we are implementing. We continue to work jointly with business, labor, insurers and the Legislature on making these reforms real and effective.”

Kenneth Adams, President & CEO of The Business Council of New York State, said: “Lowering the cost of workers compensation insurance is important to making our economy more competitive, especially in Upstate New York. These rate reductions reflect the legislative reforms adopted in 2007. We look forward to working with Governor Paterson, his agencies and the legislature in completing implementation of the 2007 reform package, to assure long term affordability of the State’s workers compensation system.”

Denis Hughes, President of the New York State AFL-CIO, said: “The New York State AFL-CIO is proud to have played a role in the historic agreement reached last year. We will continue to work with all interested parties to ensure a more efficient system that speeds the process for injured workers and continues to reform the system in a meaningful way. We applaud Governor Paterson for his commitment to this most important initiative.”

Warwick, NY – July 15, 2007

Warwick, NY – Seely & Durland of Warwick, a third generation family owned and operated independent insurance agency would like to congratulate Supervisor Tammy Artusa for her recent graduation from Leadership Orange.

Artusa is a graduate of 2007 – which the class has affectionately crowned themselves “The Superior Cass” this is in response to the friendly and ongoing competition from year to year as to which class is truly the “The Best Class Ever.” Attend any Leadership Orange event and you will no doubt hear about this ongoing battle for the title. Needless to say, all graduates from the program attest to the value and enjoyment that they get out of the program “This program was absolutely amazing. Being a County resident my whole life I still learned new things and gained different perspectives and met so many dynamic and dedicated people. I had a great time learning and getting to know all of the wonderful and dedicated present and future leaders of Orange County!” says Artusa.

For those unfamiliar with the program, Leadership Orange educates a group of Orange County individuals from a variety of backgrounds in a 10-month leadership training program. Class participants receive training on topics important to Orange County residents and businesses including education, health and human services, communications, government and politics, the environment, culture and recreation, economic development, leadership development and the judicial system. Since its inception in 1993 it has graduated over 330 men and women from the program. This year’s class all vowed to take a position on a board or committee to serve the non-profit sector. This class was truly committed to leading by example. Ms. Artusa has committed to joining the Warwick Community Center.

Seely & Durland, Inc. has been a trusted part of the community for over 70 years. As a trusted choice independent agency they represent dozens of the world’s finest insurance companies. This gives their licensed and professional staff the best competitive opportunity to properly meet the specific coverage needs of their clients.

For more information, visit www.seely-durland.com or call 800-562-2771.

February 10, 2007

Warwick, NY – Seely & Durland of Warwick, a third generation family owned and operated independent insurance agency would like to announce the certification of two valued employees. Supervisor Tammy L. Artusa and Personal Lines Customer Service Representative Michelle L. Dixon recently completed their 40-hour pre- licensing course and subsequently were awarded their New York State Life/Health Licenses.

Artusa has a wealth of insurance industry experience having spent over sixteen years working in all aspects of property casualty. Having grown up in the business, Artusa’s first job in high school was at a local insurance agency where she started as a file clerk and worked her way into a customer service role handling personal auto and homeowners insurance. At the age of 21 she received her property casualty license which she maintains to this day.

Thirteen of those sixteen years in the industry have been spent with Seely & Durland. Tammy started in the personal lines department and was promoted in 1999 to the commercial business line. After 4 years of hard work and dedication to the firm she was promoted to the position of Supervisor. One of the things that Artusa loves about her position is the chance to meet new people and learn about different businesses.

Dixon has been with Seely & Durland for 8 years and property casualty licensed for 7 years. Dixon also started her career for a local agent before starting with Seely & Durland in 1998 giving her over 11 years of insurance experience. She currently services personal policies for individuals such as homeowners, auto, umbrella, recreational vehicles, etc.

Above all, it is both Artusa and Dixon’s passion for protecting their client’s interests that keeps them burning the midnight oil to expand their skills and keep abreast of this challenging industry.

“We are very proud of both Tammy and Michelle for taking the initiative to pursue this additional licensing. It has affected the office by raising the bar for other staffers who have since decided to pursue their licensing as well.” says Seely & Durland president Garrett Durland.

Seely & Durland, Inc. has been a trusted part of the community for over 70 years. As a trusted choice independent agency they represent dozens of the world’s finest insurance companies. This gives their licensed and professional staff the best competitive opportunity to properly meet the specific coverage needs of their clients.

For more information, visit www.seely-durland.com or call 800-562-2771.

Warwick, NY – February 6, 2006

Stuart Durland, Vice President and co-owner of Seely & Durland, Inc., and former President of ASCnet (Applied Systems Client Network), recently received a Service Award at ASCnet’s 20th Annual Technology, Education and Networking Conference held in Nashville, TN. Over 1900 insurance professionals from across the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada attended the Conference for training classes, panel discussions, review of the latest technological advances in the insurance industry, and an opportunity to discuss issues with their peers.

At the conference, Durland received recognition for his work as ASCnet’s President and as a member of the ASCnet Board of Directors for six years.

“I am honored to receive the ASCnet award,” stated Durland. “The Annual Conference is an excellent opportunity for insurance professionals to meet with colleagues, share ideas and learn about new services, technologies and work flows, ” stated Durland. “This helps our members better serve our clients and is part of the ongoing continuing education priority at top independent insurance agencies.”

ASCnet was founded in 1985 and is based in Altamonte Springs, FL. ASCnet is an international association representing more than 110,000 insurance professionals. The only authorized user group for Applied Systems software, ASCnet promotes successful automation and business practices through communications, education and advocacy.

“Membership and participation in ASCnet is what sets independent agents, like Seely & Durland, apart from the price-driven, 1-800 or internet insurance companies,” explained Stuart Durland. “At Seely& Durland, our top priority is to stay current in the ever-changing insurance profession, including technology. Our goal is to make sure our licensed agents continue their education to ensure that proper coverage and top value is provided to every client.”

Seely & Durland, Inc. has been a trusted part of the community for over 70 years. As a trusted choice independent agency they represent dozens of the world’s finest insurance companies. This gives their licensed and professional staff the best competitive opportunity to properly meet the specific coverage needs of their clients.

For more information, visit www.seely-durland.com or call 800-562-2771.

Warwick, NY – January 30, 2006

John W. Stone, a country music singer, visited Seely & Durland last month and sang his newest song, “Feel the Pain” (to be released next spring) for the Durland staff. John’s new song is dedicated to our military serving our country all over the world.

When Tammy Artusa, Customer Service Agent Supervisor with Seely & Durland, attended ASCnet’s 20th Annual Technology, Education and Networking Conference in Nashville, TN, she and her husband, Peter Artusa, a Warwick police officer, met John. Soon after, when John came to NYC for the Country Music Awards, Peter arranged for him to meet the Orange County Choppers, as John is a huge fan. When he visited, Orange County, he stopped by Seely & Durland and gave them a preview of his new song.

John Stone grew up in Dogtown, a small town in northern Alabama. He is named after his grandfather and grew up in a modest home environment surrounded by folks he describes as “just good people.” John picked up the guitar when he was six and as time progressed, he learned to play the bass, drums, harmonica and piano.

John’s musical ambitions met with a detour when at 17, John enlisted in the United States Army. As soon as he graduated from high school, he went straight to boot camp. His tour of duty led him to Desert Shield and Desert Storm where he served eight years as a Gunner on an M-1 Tank. He was labeled a “top gun.”

He released his debut album on Tootsie’s Records in October 2004 (MEET JOHN STONE). He’s proven himself as a world-class songwriter with the success of his first self-penned single “Shame On Me.” He’s toured with and opened for some of today’s hottest country acts (Alan Jackson, Martina McBride, Brad Paisley, Craig Morgan and Gretchen Wilson). He’s appeared and shared the stage with legends like John Anderson, Mark Chesnutt and T. Graham Brown. He was the celebrity judge at the 2005 B95 Country Showdown. He made a cameo appearance on the Today Show with Katie Couric, performed at six presidential campaigns for President George W. Bush last fall, and he made a special appearance in Tim McGraw’s NFL halftime highlights segment taped for Monday Night Football (by NFL Films).

John’s web site is www.JohnWStone.com.

“It was an exciting day at Seely & Durland when John came by,” stated Tammy Artusa. “We love his new song and its message of support for our troops. It was thrilling for us to have a ‘private concert’ right here at Seely & Durland.”

Seely & Durland, Inc. has been a trusted part of the community for over 70 years. As a trusted choice independent agency they represent dozens of the world’s finest insurance companies. This gives their licensed and professional staff the best competitive opportunity to properly meet the specific coverage needs of their clients.

For more information, visit www.seely-durland.com or call 800-562-2771.

Warwick, NY – January 19, 2006

Sara C. Werling, of Seely & Durland, has earned the designation of Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) following her successful completion of an insurance education program sponsored by the Society of Certified Insurance Counselors.

The Society of Certified Insurance Counselors, headquartered in Austin, TX, is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to professional insurance education. Its continuing education program is conducted in all states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Currently over 27,000 agents and insurance professionals throughout the country have received the CIC designation and The Society expects this number to increase.

“The CIC designation and other continuing education certifications are what set independent agents, like Seely & Durland, apart from the price-driven, 1-800 or internet insurance companies,” stated Stuart Durland. “Individuals who hold the CIC designation have demonstrated their professional competence through a combination of experience, formal training and a series of comprehensive written examinations focusing on all major fields of insurance, insurance management and agency operations. This means that when clients call Seely & Durland, they can be sure that they are working with licensed and educated insurance professionals, not telemarketers.”

At the same time, Dana DeGroat has received her insurance agent’s license.

“Dana is the office receptionist at Seely & Durland; she plays a very important role in welcoming and directing clients and prospects to the various agents in our company who can help meet their insurance needs,” explained Durland. “Dana’s hard work to earn her insurance agent’s license demonstrates the top priority we place on ongoing education at Seely & Durland to ensure that all of our employees are educated, licensed and up- to-date on the ever-changing insurance industry. We congratulate both Sara and Dana on their accomplishments and are delighted that they are part of the Seely & Durland family.”

Warwick, NY – March 30, 2005

Seely & Durland has introduced the Tell-My-Mom subscription program that allows parents the opportunity to receive information about their teen-ager’s driving behavior. Parents receive a bumper sticker asking other drivers to call and report their child’s driving, whether good or bad. Tell-My-Mom operates a 24-hour toll free service which drivers call to report their observations. Parents are then contacted by US mail in an unmarked envelope or secure e-mail with the observations.

“Almost 10,000 teens die in motor vehicle crashes in the United States each year,” stated Garrett Durland. “Many of these accidents are caused by inexperience, horseplay, reckless driving and speeding. As parents, we often do not know all of the driving habits of our teens, unless he or she receives a citation. By providing this information to parents through Tell-My-Mom, we hope to create an opportunity for parents and teens to work together to correct poor driving practices, making the teen a safer, more responsible driver.”

Tell-My-Mom maintains a database of members and reports, and takes action to help parents know if the information in the report is accurate. When a report is taken, the name and contact information of the reporter is requested to enable the parent to contact the reporter for further insight into the incident. When the letter is sent to the parents, it states if a report came from an anonymous source and therefore, its validity may be questionable and should be taken into consideration when dealing with their teen.

As a driver accumulates reports, the parents are given the option to purchase videotapes or safety pamphlets to discuss with their teens. In addition, studies have shown that if the young driver knows that his or her parents could be contacted with this information, they may behave better behind the wheel.

Trucking companies utilizing “How’s My Driving?” driver monitoring programs have reported a 20% decrease in accidents and ticketing.

Membership in Tell-My-Mom is $55 a year for up to two vehicles and $15 for each additional vehicle.

Warwick, NY – March 21, 2005

Seely & Durland has received the 2004 Outstanding Business Building Renovation Award from the Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce for the complete renovation of their facility at 13 Oakland Avenue, Warwick. The objective of the nine month project was to retain the original look and charm of the historic Victorian home that houses Seely & Durland Inc., while creating an up-to-date office to better serve customers.

“We thank the Chamber for this award,” stated Garrett Durland, “as well as our staff and customers for their patience during the renovation period. We’d also like to thank the vendors who worked with us, Merrick Construction and KP Home Builders, for their excellent work and ideas. We invite the public to stop by and see our new offices.”

Garrett, Stuart and Ken Durland received a plaque commemorating the award at a recent Chamber meeting.

Warwick, NY – March 5, 2005

Stuart Durland, Vice President and co-owner of Seely & Durland, Inc., and President of ASCnet, recently presided over ASCnet’s 19th Annual Technology, Education and Networking Conference held at the Coronado Springs Hotel in Disney World, Orlando, FL. Over 1800 insurance professionals from across the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada attended the Conference for training classes, panel discussions, review of the latest technological advances in the insurance industry, and an opportunity to discuss issues with their peers.

At the conference, Durland lead the ASCnet Executive Committee and Board of Director meetings, as well as the three general sessions where all attendees came together for presentations, lunch and award ceremonies, and the election of new officers.

“The ASCnet Conference is an excellent opportunity for insurance professionals to meet with colleagues, share ideas and learn about new services and work flows,” stated Durland. “This helps our members better serve our clients and is part of the ongoing continuing education priority at top independent insurance agencies.”

At the conclusion of the conference Durland was elected as the immediate past president of ASCnet and Chairperson of the Nominations and By Law Committees.

ASCnet was founded in 1985 and is based in Altamonte Springs, FL. ASCnet is an international association representing more than 110,000 insurance professionals. The only authorized user group for Applied Systems software, ASCnet promotes successful automation and business practices through communications, education and advocacy.

Warwick, NY – December 1, 2004

Seely & Durland, Inc. now offers WeddingSurance®, BarMitzvahSurance®, and CelebrationSurance®, insurance products specifically designed to protect the consumer’s financial investment in a wedding or other special event, provided through RV Nuccio Insurance. This insurance package is flexible, with options available to allow clients to customize the coverage needed for their specific events.

“The total cost of a wedding or other special event can be substantial, all of which is at risk should something unexpected happen,” stated Coleen McAssey, Marketing Representative. “Too often, we read stories in the newspaper about the losses that people have incurred due to the financial difficulties of an event vendor. Today, this insurance is a necessity. And the flexibility of this program allows the customer to include only the coverage they need.”

The basic policy covers cancellation or postponement of an event due to illness or injury to the honoree and/or essential persons, damage to premises, wedding gown, special attire or weather that prevents honorees or the majority of guests from attending. It also covers losses due to failure-to-show of the caterer or person engaged to perform a ceremony and closure of the ceremony site due to financial failure. There is a $250 deductible. Premiums start at $195 and coverage can begin up to two years prior to the event. More details are available upon request.

Optional coverage is also available, including photographs and video, gifts, rented property, jewelry, special attire and personal liability.

“Many times, event halls or municipalities require certificates of insurance which this program can provide,” stated Tammy Artusa, CSA Supervisor. “Consumers should check on insurance requirements when planning an event and can call our agency to help meet those requirements.”

Seely & Durland, Inc. has been a trusted part of the community for over 70 years. As a trusted choice independent agency they represent dozens of the world’s finest insurance companies. This gives their licensed and professional staff the best competitive opportunity to properly meet the specific coverage needs of their clients.

For more information, visit www.seely-durland.com or call 800-562-2771.