PrideMark-Everest Announces New Look

PrideMark-Everest Insurance Services recently changed their look to better identify their partnership with the Leavitt Group, the 12th largest brokerage in the nation.

While the look may be different, PrideMark-Everest is committed to the excellent service it has been offering its customers for over 70 years. “Changing our brand will associate our agency with an organization that provides effective, sophisticated, and creative risk solutions for all types of insurance needs,” said co-owner Angelo Maroutsos.

Pullman Fire Department Receives Funding For Critical New Rescue Device

Pullman, Wash. (March 22, 2010) – It has quickly become one of the most important pieces of equipment any fire department can have, and now Pullman firefighters will be receiving one of the most modern, high-tech versions of the tool.

Leavitt Insurance Agency and Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company are teaming up to award a $5,000 grant to the Pullman Fire Department to help fund the purchase of a new thermal imaging camera. The local Denny’s restaurant, on SE Bishop Boulevard, played a key role in directing this grant to Pullman.

The device uses updated technology to enable the department’s firefighters to “see” through smoke and darkness to quickly locate anyone trapped in a building during a fire. The camera can also play a major role in reducing property damage. With one in hand, firefighters can often locate hot spots inside walls and extinguish them before they spread.

“Thermal imagers used to be considered a luxury, but now they’re a necessity because they can be used in so many different ways,” said Fire Chief Pat Wilkins. “There have been many times when the only camera we had was needed by the other fire station, but was unavailable because it was already being used on another call. This additional camera will relieve a lot of that pressure.”

“Equipping these first responders with the latest life-saving technology is critical to ensuring the safety of people in this community,” said Charlie Page with Leavitt Insurance Agency. “We’re proud to be able to help in such a meaningful way, knowing so many people will benefit from the fire department’s use of this device.”

Chief Wilkins, Pullman firefighters, and executives from Leavitt Insurance Agency and Fireman’s Fund will come together for a public event where the grant package will be formally presented and there will be a demonstration of a thermal imager:

Date / Time: Location:
Tuesday, March 23, 2010 Pullman Fire Department
11:00 a.m. 620 S. Grand Ave.
Pullman, WA

The grant is part of a nationwide philanthropic program funded by Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company. The program is designed to provided needed equipment, training and educational tools to local fire departments. Since 2004, Fireman’s Fund has issued grants to more than 1,500 different departments totaling more than $25 million. Independent insurance agencies that sell Fireman’s Fund products, like Leavitt Insurance Agency, are able to direct these grants to support the fire service.

About Leavitt Insurance Agency
Leavitt Insurance Agency is a member of The Leavitt Group, founded in 1952, which is one of the largest insurance brokerages in the United States. It is an organization of affiliated independent insurance agencies with over 115 locations across the country and approximately $1.5 billion in annualized premiums. Leavitt Group affiliates are able to provide effective, sophisticated and creative risk management and risk transfer solutions to all types of businesses. For more information, visit http://www.leavitt.com/.

About Fireman’s Fund Insurance Co.
Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company is a premier property and casualty insurance company providing personal and commercial insurance products nationwide. It is rated ‘AA-’ by Standard & Poor’s Rating Services. Fireman’s Fund is a member of the Allianz Group, one of the world’s largest providers of insurance and financial services. For additional information, visit www.firemansfund.com.

Welcome Rudi Weinberg

Leavitt Insurance Services of Los Angeles is pleased to announce that Rudi Weinberg, FCII, CPCU, CLU, ARM, has joined the agency as Senior Vice President.

Mr. Weinberg brings 40 plus years of experience in Employee Benefits, including group health, dental, vision, 401(k), Human Resources, and supplemental coverages. He also serves the commercial insurance needs of businesses of all sizes, including workers compensation, property and casualty insurance, and not-for-profit insurance. He provides very strong client-focused service, which results in long-term relationships with clients.

“I am very excited to work with the Leavitt Group, whose integrity in the industry as well as their long-term commitment to clients’ needs fully matches my strong client focus,” said Weinberg.

Welcome Mike Taylor

The Leavitt Group is pleased to announce Mike Taylor as the new co-owner of their Billings, Bozeman, and Livingston, Montana locations. Previously known as Swanson-Leavitt Insurance, these locations will now do business as Taylor-Leavitt Insurance Agency effective March 1, 2010.

Most recently with Western States Insurance (WSI), Taylor brings over eight years of insurance experience specializing in construction, workers compensation, and farm/ranch insurance. He also previously served on the Producer Advisory Council for WSI.

Taylor is a member of the Montana Contractors Association, Montana Bowhunters Association, and Montana Wildlife Federation. He received a degree in business from the Western Montana College in Dillon, Montana.

“This is a wonderful opportunity with the Leavitt Group,” said Taylor. “I look forward to serving clients with the excellent staff at all three of our locations.”