Illinois News

Best Affirms XL Ratings; Comments

A.M. Best Co. has affirmed the financial strength rating (FSR) of “A+” (Superior) and the issuer credit ratings (ICR) of “aa-“of Bermuda-based XL Capital Ltd’s operating subsidiaries. Best also affirmed the ICR of “a-” and the existing debt ratings of …

Unitrin Appoints Boschelli as VP, Treasurer

Chicago-based Unitrin Inc. announced it has appointed John M. Boschelli to the positions of vice president and treasurer. Boschelli oversees the company’s day-to-day investment operations, cash management and corporate finance. Boschelli had served as treasurer since his election to officer …

Ill. Lawmakers Toughen Graduated Teen Licensing with New Provisions

Some are already calling the new provisions to the teen graduated drivers licensing law passed by the Illinois legislature as the toughest in the country. The measure, SB 172, passed by the Illinois legislature, addresses two of the critical provisions …

Navigators Opens Specialty Program Division; Cullen Named Unit President

The Navigators Group, Inc.’s principal underwriting agency subsidiary, Navigators Management Company, has established the Specialty Program Division. Products underwritten for niche markets by the division will include property, general liability and commercial automobile insurance. Rick Cullen has joined Navigators as …

Ill. Judge Seeks to Reopen $10.1 Million “Light” Cigarette Lawsuit

A judge whose $10.1 billion judgment against Philip Morris USA in a lawsuit over light cigarettes was thrown out on appeal is asking a court whether he can revive the case. Madison County Circuit Judge Nicholas Byron this month asked …

Ill. Encompass Insurance Names Laura Dunne Financial Team Leader

Laura Dunne was appointed to lead the finance and strategy team of Encompass Insurance Co., Northbrook, Ill., the company recently announced. Encompass is the independent insurance agency division of the Allstate Group. Dunne joined Allstate in 1995 in finance and …

NetRate Systems, Inc. Joins AAIS

OKEMOS, MI – NetRate Systems, Inc. (Okemos, MI) has completed membership requirements for partnering with the American Association of Insurance Services (AAIS) of Wheaton, IL. NetRate, a leading supplier of Commercial and Personal Lines Rating Systems, utilizes AAIS data in …

Declarations

No means ‘no’ “I find no merit in State Farm’s contention that the assignment of these insurance proceeds deprives the plaintiffs, the named insureds, of standing to pursue a claim under the homeowners insurance policy.” Comments made by U.S. District …

People and Places

Lansing, Mich.-based Accident Fund Insurance Company of America recently named Al Gileczek as its vice president of Business Development Regional Operations. In his new role, Gileczek oversees Accident Fund’s national underwriting practices, sales strategies, research, and regional growth and development. …

My New Markets

Antique Home Insurance Nuts & Bolts: MiddleOak is offering the insurance designed exclusively for antique homes. Comprehensive coverage (similar to a high value home policy) for pre-1930 homes with coverage at $250,000 to $5 million. Endorsed by a historical trust. …