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Cumberland Insurance Group Announces Promotions and New Officer


From left to right – Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Richard M Ritter, Senior Vice President Lisa C. Koelln, Treasurer David Weiner, Assistant Vice President Glenn Watkins, and Assistant Vice President Bill Harmer.

BRIDGETON, NJ: The Cumberland Insurance Group Board of Directors has announced the promotions of Richard M. Ritter, Lisa C. Koelln, David Weiner, Glenn Watkins, and Bill Harmer.

“We greatly appreciate the many contributions these talented individuals have made to The Cumberland Insurance Group,” said President and CEO Robert P. Brady. “Their hard work and innovative thinking have strengthened our market position, and increased the quality, effectiveness, and level of service for our business. We look forward to their continued leadership, dedication, and creativity, all of which are critical to our future success.”

Richard M. Ritter was promoted from Executive Vice President to Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. He has over 30 years of experience in the insurance industry and previously served for four years as President of The Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Chester County. Mr. Ritter joined The Cumberland Insurance Group in 2000 following the merger between the two companies. He oversees operations in the Bridgeton, New Jersey; Coatesville, Pennsylvania; Prince Frederick, Maryland; and Mansfield, Ohio offices. Mr. Ritter also currently serves as Vice Chairman of the Delaware Insurance Guaranty Association, and as Vice President of the Coatesville Area School Board.

Lisa C. Koelln. has been promoted from Vice President to Senior Vice President. Ms. Koelln graduated from Bucknell University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Math. She joined The Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Chester County in 1998 as a Commercial Lines Underwriter. Prior to joining Chester, she spent time in the agency side of the business, and also worked for Travelers Insurance and Zurich Insurance. Ms. Koelln holds both a CIC and CISR insurance designation. She is responsible for overseeing and coordinating Personal and Commercial Lines Underwriting for the Company.

David Weiner has been promoted from Accounting Manager to Treasurer. Mr. Weiner graduated from St. John’s University Magna Cum Laude in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting, and graduated Summa Cum Laude from St. John’s in 2003 with a Masters Degree in Finance. Prior to joining The Cumberland Insurance Group in 2008, Mr. Weiner had 12 years of hands-on experience in financial management in both public and private settings including Grant Thornton, LLP; Ace Capital Re Overseas, Inc; Georgeson Shareholder Communications; Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins; and Kimble Glass, Inc. As Treasurer, his duties include preparation of regulatory filings; annual budgeting and quarterly financial reports for the Board; and management of accounting, billing, and accounts receivable.

Glenn Watkins has been promoted from Marketing Representative to Assistant Vice President. He has been with The Cumberland Insurance Group for nine years, and currently serves as a liaison between the Company and its independent agency partners. Prior to joining the Company, he worked in the claims department at CGU Insurance. Mr. Watkins graduated from Mount Saint Mary’s College with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Finance, and earned his Agent’s property and casualty license in 1989. He is a Past President of the New Jersey 1752 Club, and is a recipient of the New Jersey Professional Insurance Agents Company Person of the Year Award in 2005, and the New Jersey Young Insurance Professionals John Laux Distinguished Service Award in 2007. He currently serves as Co-Chairman of the Independent Insurance Agents of New Jersey Make a Wish Committee, a Director for the Independent Insurance Agents of Camden Gloucester County, and as a Director on the Board of the New Jersey Young Insurance Professionals.

Bill Harmer has been promoted from New Jersey Personal Lines Manager to Assistant Vice President. Mr. Harmer joined the Company in 2003 as the Home Office Agency Representative, and in 2008 was named Personal Lines Manager. Prior to joining Cumberland, he spent 19 years in the agency side of the business servicing both Personal and Commercial Lines accounts. Mr. Harmer has an Associate Degree in both Drafting and Business Administration from Gloucester County College. He currently holds a CIC insurance designation and is pursuing his CPCU designation. He will continue to manage the New Jersey Personal Lines Department.

The Cumberland Insurance Group was established in 1844 and currently serves over 120,000 policyholders in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. In 2008, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $315,595,220 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,166,468. For more information about The Cumberland Insurance Group or to find an independent agent near you, please visit www.cumberlandgroup.com.


For more information about this press release, please contact Lee Tofanelli at 856-691-3113.

Cumberland Insurance Group Announces Solid 2008 Results

BRIDGETON, NJ: Despite continuing soft insurance market conditions and the severe problems in the financial markets, The Cumberland Insurance Group posted a solid year in 2008. In results released at the Company’s recent Annual Meeting, The Cumberland Insurance Group reported an increase in Direct Written Premiums to $128,727,302, and a net income for the year of over $5 million.

“The positive results we achieved in 2008 make it clear that The Cumberland Insurance Group’s long-term operating strategy is correct,” said Chairman Leo T. Hogan. “Our strategic focus has been on solid, steady investments offering stable earnings, and hence a high degree of security. This security represents the foundation of our business and justifies the trust that our policyholders and agency partners have placed in the Company for 165 years.”

“This business philosophy has served us well, and as a result through very tough national economic times we are proud that our 2008 results are very different from the stories that continue to lead the news headlines,” said President and CEO Robert P. Brady. “We have a good story to tell which is grounded in ethical decision-making, long-term profitability, and financial stability. Our conservative approach in the areas of underwriting, reserving, and operations has built a stable company with a strong capital position and consistent growth.”

“Additionally, our capital management strategy has allowed us to support key business initiatives such as infrastructure investments in new products and technologies,” Brady continued. “Many of t hese enhancements came online in 2008, making it easier for agents to quote, write, and service business with the Company.”

“We are also pleased that efforts to improve our overall expense ratio by streamlining operations and instituting other internal expense controls were successful. We did have to make some difficult decisions. However, as a result, we believe we have improved our competitive position in the marketplace and are well-positioned for the future,” Brady concluded.

The Cumberland Insurance Group was established in 1844 and currently serves over 120,000 policyholders in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. In 2008, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $315,595,220 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,166,468. For more information about The Cumberland Insurance Group or to find an independent agent near you, please visit www.cumberlandgroup.com.


For more information about this press release, please contact Lee Tofanelli at 856-691-3113.

Cumberland Insurance Award 2008 – 2009 College Scholarships



Cumberland County College President Dr. Ken Ender, Ph.D.
looks on as scholarship award winner David Gifford accepts a check from Cumberland Insurance Group Human Resources Manager Laurie LaTorre, PHR.



Delaware County Community College scholarship award winner
Lisa Paterson is congratulated by Linda deSimone, Director of the College’s Southeast Center Campus.

BRIDGETON, NJ: Paying for college just got easier for five deserving and talented students attending Cumberland County College in New Jersey and Delaware County Community College in Pennsylvania, through college scholarships awarded as part of The Cumberland Insurance Group continuing education program. Each student will receive between $750 and $2,500 toward college expenses in recognition of excellence demonstrated by their leadership, community service, and academic achievement. Scholarship award winners were selected by a committee of educators at each individual college.

“Education is the key to the high-skill, high-paying jobs of tomorrow,” said Cumberland Insurance Group President Robert P. Brady. “The Scholarship Program was created to further the education of students who demonstrate the potential to become the next generation of business leaders. By awarding these scholarships, we are investing in a brighter tomorrow for our children, our communities, and our company.”

The first $2,500 scholarship was awarded to David Gifford who is attending Cumberland County College this fall in pursuit of a career in Paralegal Studies. David is a graduate of Millville High School. “We were pleased to recommend David from a number of exceptional students,” said Sue Perry of Cumberland County College. “We congratulate him and wish him much success as he continues his education and career development.”

The next four scholarships were awarded to students attending Delaware County Community College. The 2008-2009 academic year recipients included one scholarship winner from 2007-2008, and three freshman students. Kimberly Brown and Lisa Paterson each received $750 to pursue their degrees in Business Administration. Ms. Paterson has previously received a $1,500 award. Kimberly Jemison received $2,000 and Lisa Stillman received $1,500 to continue studies in the field of Business Management.

“On behalf of all of our Cumberland Insurance employees, I congratulate the recipients of this year’s company scholarships,” said Paul J. Ritter, III, Cumberland Insurance Group Senior Vice President, Secretary to the Board, and CFO. “These young men and women have worked very hard to achieve the academic records that enabled them to qualify for and receive these awards. We are very proud to support their continued studies and to be able to help them pursue their academic goals. We are also pleased to partner with two outstanding colleges which enhance the quality of life for residents and businesses in the New Jersey and Pennsylvania communities they serve.”

“The Cumberland Insurance scholarship was critical in helping me meet my academic goals,” said award winner Lisa Patterson. “The support allowed me to concentrate more on my course work and worry less about how I was going to pay for it.”

“I was honored to be selected for this scholarship,” Kimberly Brown said. “As a mature student with a number of financial obligations, I really appreciated the extra encouragement and support.”

“We are honored to award scholarships to such driven, hard working, and dedicated students,” said Cumberland Insurance Group Executive Vice President Richard M. Ritter. “Their academic records, along with their extracurricular activities, make them highly deserving individuals of these awards. If their educational achievements are any indication, I am confident that they will all have very lucrative and successful careers when they move into their chosen professions.”

The Cumberland Insurance Group was established in 1844 and currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. In 2007, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $322,267,129 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,387,741. For more information about The Cumberland Insurance Group, please visit www.cumberlandgroup.com.

 


For more information about this press release, please contact Lee Tofanelli at 856-691-3113.

Cumberland Insurance Group Remains Strong in the Face of Financial Downturn

CUMBERLAND COUNTY, NJ: With the torrent of bad economic news sweeping Wall Street and Main Street, businesses and individuals are justifiably nervous about the ability of their insurance company to protect their assets. According to the Boston-based insurance consultant Celent, “This crisis is sure to affect insurers the world over for years to come. Although the unprecedented breadth and intensity of issues currently facing the industry will constrain future growth, they also represent opportunities for carriers that position themselves correctly.”

“The dynamics of the current marketplace provide The Cumberland Insurance Group with opportunities, as more and more of our agency partners look to the Company to answer the needs of the insurance buyer,” said Leo T. Hogan, Cumberland Insurance Group Chairman and CEO. “As a result of strategies we have followed over the last decade, The Cumberland Insurance Group remains strong in the face of this worldwide financial downturn.”

“Over the last ten years, The Cumberland Insurance Group has achieved record direct written premiums and policyholders’ surplus,” said President Robert P. Brady. “In fact, in a most recent comparative analysis of current financial responsibility by Standard Analytical Service, Inc. of fifteen leading Property and Casualty companies, Cumberland Insurance outperformed the aggregate average in all categories.”

“However, in order to remain a premier mutual insurance company, we must continue to evaluate our existing products and develop new products and technology to meet the need of our customers,” Brady said. “Through our Information Technology and Research and Development Departments we are developing valuable innovations, ideas, and practical applications which will be a source of value when it comes to gaining a competitive advantage in the marketplace.”

According to Celent, “Carriers will need to reexamine their IT projects against a combination of strategic goals, including getting smarter by making better use of their market data and developing more robust analytic and modeling capabilities.”

“With the wisdom and guidance of our Board of Directors, The Cumberland Insurance Group has taken great strides to better serve our customers by maintaining the Company’s focus on tradition while welcoming innovation and growth,” said Richard M. Ritter, Cumberland Insurance Group Executive Vice President. “By continuing to evaluate our current product offerings and developing new products and technologies, we enhance our ability to increase our book of business.”

“In the face of current financial conditions, The Cumberland Insurance Group remains a well-capitalized company whose surplus exceeds its written premiums, ensuring that we have the financial strength to aggressively compete for new business,” said Paul J. Ritter, III, Senior Vice President, CFO, and Secretary to the Board. “Furthermore, our commitment to Enterprise Risk Management initiatives ensures our safety and soundness in these uncertain financial times.”

“The attention to detail in all aspects of our business helps separate us from other insurance companies. It is a legacy of service and financial strength that is reflected in our day-to-day operations. We are proud to say that for over 163 years we have been there when it counts, meeting the needs of our policyholders with competitive and innovative products and exceptional customer service. As we navigate the current market conditions and look to the future, we will continue to deliver the products, services, and technology that make The Cumberland Insurance Group the best solution for our agents and policyholders.”

The Cumberland Insurance Group was established in 1844 and currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. In 2007, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $322,267,129 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,387,741. For more information about The Cumberland Insurance Group, please visit www.cumberlandgroup.com.


For more information about this press release, please contact Lee Tofanelli at 856-691-3113.

Cumberland Insurance Group Announces Promotion and New Officer

BRIDGETON, NEW JERSEY: The Cumberland Insurance Group Board of Directors is pleased to recognize Richard M. Ritter, Paul J. Ritter III, Esq., Roby L. Musick, and Linda M. May on their recent promotions, and welcomes Michael A. Colodney, Esq. as the new Vice President of Legal Affairs.

“These promotions solidify the organization as we move forward and position The Cumberland Insurance Group with the next generation of leadership,” said Cumberland Insurance Group CEO and Chairman Leo T. Hogan. “Rick and Paul are both assuming expanded management roles. Both have been instrumental in developing our current strategy and our record results in recent years. They demonstrate the strength and depth of Cumberland’s executive talent.”

Richard M. Ritter was promoted from Assistant Executive Vice President to Executive Vice President. He has 30 years of experience in the insurance industry and previously served for four years as President of The Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Chester County. Mr. Ritter joined The Cumberland Insurance Group in 2000 following the merger between the two companies. He oversees underwriting operations in the Bridgeton, New Jersey; Coatesville, Pennsylvania; and Prince Frederick, Maryland offices; and oversees Information Technology operations in Mansfield, Ohio. Mr. Ritter also currently serves as the Vice Chairman of the Delaware Insurance Guaranty Association, and as the Vice Chairman of the Coatesville Area School Board.

Paul J. Ritter III, Esq. has been promoted from Vice President and Assistant Secretary to the Board of Directors to Senior Vice President, CFO, and Secretary to the Board of Directors. Mr. Ritter graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1983 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and received his law degree from Widener University in 1987. He joined The Cumberland Insurance Group in 1999. Mr. Ritter’s new responsibilities include budgeting and strategic planning, internal financial reporting, enterprise risk management, and business continuation planning. In addition, he serves as the Deputy Mayor of Hopewell Township, New Jersey, and as a member of the Hopewell Township Planning Board. Mr. Ritter is also an Adjunct Professor of Business Law at Cumberland County College.

Roby L. Musick has been promoted from Vice President to Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer. He has nearly 20 years of experience in the information technology field. Prior to joining The Cumberland Insurance Group, Mr. Musick worked for the Shelby Insurance Company and the Selective Insurance Group. Mr. Musick currently manages The Cumberland Insurance Group’s Ohio technology office. He is a member of the Technology Advisory Committee for Pioneer Joint Vocational School and a member of the Information Systems Advisory Committee for North Central State College.

Linda M. May has been with The Cumberland Insurance Group for 30 years. She previously managed the Commercial Lines Underwriting Department, and in 2006, she assumed management of the newly created Research and Development Department. Ms. May graduated from Cumberland County College, and has pursued a number of continuing educational courses through professional insurance organizations. She also obtained her Agent’s license from the South Jersey Professional School of Business. Ms. May is the president-elect of the National Association of Insurance Women of Cumberland/Salem County.

Michael A. Colodney, Esq. has joined The Cumberland Insurance Group as Vice President of Legal Affairs. Prior to joining Cumberland, Mr. Colodney was a Senior Associate in the Corporate and Business Law Department of Bressler, Amery, & Ross, P.C.; General Counsel and Assistant Corporate Secretary for Goen Technologies; and Associate General Counsel and Director of Regulatory Affairs for the Credit Union Affiliates of New Jersey. He received his law degree from Seton Hall University in 1997. As the senior legal officer for The Cumberland Insurance Group, Mr. Colodney is responsible for guiding all aspects of the corporate legal functions.

“My congratulations go out to all five individuals. Rick, Paul, Rob, and Linda have been integral members of our leadership team for several years,” said Cumberland Insurance Group President Robert P. Brady. “Over this period, they have made significant contributions to our enhanced regional capabilities and our compliance responsibilities. We are also pleased to have Michael Colodney as a new member of The Cumberland Insurance Group family. His legal acumen, leadership skills, and breadth of industry knowledge will be strong assets for the Company.”

The Cumberland Insurance Group was established in 1844 and currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. In 2007, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $322,267,129 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,387,741. For more information about The Cumberland Insurance Group, please visit www.cumberlandgroup.com.


For more information about this press release, please contact Lee Tofanelli at 856-691-3113.

Cumberland Insurance Group Strongly Supports Professional Insurance Organizations

BRIDGETON, NEW JERSEY: Since 1844, The Cumberland Insurance Group has provided property and casualty insurance products and services to a growing regional market. Over our 164 year history, strong relationships with independent community-based, professional insurance agents have always been a key to our success. Our commitment to the independent agency system and to the professional insurance organizations that support our agency partners is stronger today than ever.

“We recognize that our agents are instrumental to our success, and we remain committed to the independent agency system and the insurance associations that support this system,” said Leo T. Hogan, Cumberland Insurance Group CEO and Chairman. “Because independent agents are local residents, the customer interaction that is important to creating confidence and security is easier to achieve. Local agents know the market well and this knowledge helps the Company underwrite efficiently, price the business adequately, and develop long-term relationships with the policyholder.”

“Independent insurance associations provide a support system professional independent agents can rely on for information, education, advocacy, networking, and guidance,” said Steve J. Catranis, Senior Vice President of Marketing. “A united front and an excellent support system are the keys to the independent insurance agents’ well being and success, and in turn to the success of The Cumberland Insurance Group. Despite all of the competition from new distribution outlets such as the Internet and 1-800 insurance companies, the independent agency system has held strong and stands=2 0as proof positive that independent agents bring value to the industry and to their customers.”

The Cumberland Insurance Group is proud to support associations like the Professional Insurance Agents (PIA), Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers (IIAB), and the National Association of Insurance Women (NAIW). This support manifests itself in a number of ways. For example, the Company has been a sponsor of annual statewide conventions held by these organizations for many years, and also continues to support special events like the annual IIAB of New Jersey golf classic which raises money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. We encourage the participation by Cumberland employees as members and officers in professional insurance associations, and we vigorously support their ongoing educational opportunities.

The Cumberland Insurance Group was established in 1844 and currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. In 2007, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $322,267,129 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,387,741. For more information about The Cumberland Insurance Group, please visit www.cumberlandgroup.com.


For more information about this press release, please contact Lee Tofanelli at 856-691-3113.

Cumberland Insurance Group Introduces New Products

BRIDGETON, NEW JERSEY: The Cumberland Insurance Group is pleased to announce a number of new Personal Lines products. The new products include Equipment Breakdown Coverage; which is available through our existing Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware Homeowner policies; an updated Personal Automobile Program in Pennsylvania; and a new Personal Automobile Program in the state of Maryland.

“This is another step in our efforts to offer more insurance choices for the customer,” said Cumberland Insurance Group Chairman and CEO Leo T. Hogan. “The addition of these new products, and others which are still in development, directly support our long-term growth goals. Also, by introducing new products, we are able to achieve a better spread of risk throughout the four-state region we serve. We are confident that the new programs will provide our current and new policyholders with superior coverage at a competitive price.”

“We are very happy with the new Personal Auto product,” said Cumberland Insurance Group Executive Vice President Richard M. Ritter. “The program includes more flexible underwriting guidelines than our previous auto product, and features 30 program tiers within three distinct classifications, giving our agents and customers more options.”

Policyholders who currently have their homes insured by Cumberland and who qualify for the new Personal Automobile coverage, can save money on both policies with a companion discount. Additional savings can be achieved through multi-car coverage, an accident-free driving record, completion of driver’s education courses, students with good grades, anti-theft devices, anti-lock brakes, and passive restraints. The program also features guaranteed replacement coverage on new vehicles for up to two years.

“We also recently introduced our new Equipment Breakdown Coverage which protects against unexpected repair or replacement costs due to mechanical, electrical, or pressurized systems breakdown,” Ritter continued. “This new coverage option is an affordable alternative to costly product and home warranty plans. A typical Homeowner policy excludes these types of losses, and individual warranty plans can be costly and confusing. Whether the customer is a renter or a high value homeowner, we can cover them through this inexpensive program.”

“Developing products which are less expensive, straight forward, and adaptable to evolving needs, makes it easier for our agency partners to aggressively compete for new business and retain existing business,” said Cumberland Insurance Group President Robert P. Brady. “In addition, we believe our customers will view The Cumberland Insurance Group as a good value for their insurance dollar. We are excited about our ability to continue to enhance all of our service offerings and to the introduction of additional products into the marketplace in the coming months.”

The Cumberland Insurance Group is rated A+ Superior by the A.M. Best Company, and currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. In 2006, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $313,885,235 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,421,618. For more information about The Cumberland Insurance Group, please visit www.cumberlandgroup.com.


For more information about this press release, please contact Lee Tofanelli at 856-691-3113.

Cumberland Insurance Group Celebrates “Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work”” Day”

BRIDGETON, NEW JERSEY: As a follow-up to “Job Shadow Day” which was held in February, The Cumberland Insurance Group recently participated in a second national career education initiative. “Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work” Day is designed to be more than a career day. This public education program connects what children learn at school with the actual working world. The program encourages girls and boys, ages six to 14, to dream without limitations and to think imaginatively about their family, work, and community lives. The theme for 2008 is Making Choices for a Better World.

“Making Choices for a Better World is something we need to encourage all children to think about,” said Cumberland Insurance Group Chairman and CEO Leo T. Hogan. “This means making choices to serve the community and one’s family, to care for one’s body and health, and to make better choices that impact our environment, as well as one’s future.”

“Exposing girls and boys to what a parent or mentor does during the workday is important, but the ‘Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work’ philosophy seeks to do more,” said Cumberland Insurance Group President Robert P. Brady. “By showing children the value of their education, helping them discover the possibilities associated with a balanced work and family life, providing an opportunity to share how they envision the future, and demonstrating how to reach their goals in a hands-on interactive environment greatly enhances their chances of achieving success.”

This year, 26 children took part in The Cumberland Insurance Group “Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work” program. The day started when the children arrived at the office and were split into groups according to age. Chaperones then gave them a tour and explanation of the company’s various departments including Personal and Commercial Lines Underwriting, Claims, Marketing, Information Technology, Accounting, Audit and Billing, Human Resources, Mail Room, and the Executive offices. Next, the children moved outside where they participated in the “Cumberland Olympics” which included a bean bag toss, softball and basketball throws, and a sock relay. After the activities, they all had lunch and the children rejoined their parents and grandparents in their respective departments for the remainder of the day.

“Work and family balance is a central issue for every family member in our society now and for the foreseeable future,” said Stephanie McAllister, Cumberland Insurance Group Billing Manager. “‘Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work’ Day helps stimulate a national conversation about this crucial issue. In addition, the children have a great time seeing their parents or grandparents at work, learning about the various professions in the company, and seeing how everyone works together to make a product for the customer.”

“We believe that it is important that ‘Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work’ Day is organized during the school year,” Brady continued. “This allows the girls and boys to take what they learn in workplaces on Thursday and apply it to the classroom on Friday. By involving schools, students, parents, workplaces, and mentors, the program helps young people make the connection between what they learn in school and their future goals.”

“More and more, locations are competing in a global economy that increasingly recognizes and prizes the vital role of dedicated individuals. ‘Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work’ Day gives young people a taste of the workplace. But it also reminds us as parents, policymakers, voters, and corporate leaders that our success as a company, and as a nation, depends on our ability to nurture and help fulfill the dreams and potential of all of our young adults. The Cumberland Insurance Group is proud to do our part,” Hogan concluded.

The Cumberland Insurance Group is rated A+ Superior by the A.M. Best Company, and currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. In 2006, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $313,885,235 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,421,618. For more information about The Cumberland Insurance Group, please visit www.cumberlandgroup.com.


For more information about this press release, please contact Lee Tofanelli at 856-691-3113.

Cumberland Insurance Joins Members of Congress in support of National Guard Deployment

BRIDGETON, NEW JERSEY: The Cumberland Insurance Group was among 10 New Jersey companies who joined Senators Frank Lautenberg and Robert Menendez, and Congressman Rush Holt recently in support of New Jersey’s largest overseas deployment by the National Guard since World War II. Nearly 2,600 soldiers, which represents almost half of the State’s Army National Guard force, will be deployed in June. The event was quite personal as a member of the Cumberland family is part of the deployment.

” It was truly an eye-opening day,” said Ken Clements, Cumberland Insurance Group Vice President of Information Technology. “One of my senior engineers, Jonathan Lafferty, is a member of the 50th Infantry Brigade Combat Team which will be heading to Iraq later this year. It will be difficult to replace his skills, but we fully support his decision to join the Guard.

The event was organized to give employers the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the issues employees and their families will face as they prepare for the deployment. This included observing and participating in some of the training the soldiers are going through and meeting with officers to discuss the time commitment that will be required of their employees before they depart.

“My day started at the Lawrenceville Armory where I learned about the processing and training the guardsman will be going through,” Clements said. “Later, I was flown to Fort Dix on a Black Hawk helicopter to tour the training facilities. I was able to put on the actual gear that the troops carry, and was amazed at how heavy it was, approximately 150 pounds.”

“I then got the chance to experience the training facility first-hand which included a full scale Iraqi village where I was able to take part in an exercise, actually carrying and firing a simulated weapon,” Clements continued. “At the end of the day, I flew back to Lawrenceville and departed for home with a different perspective on what our young men and women go through and what they will experience in Iraq.”

In support of Jonathan, The Cumberland Insurance Group is doing all they can to help, and in fact is going beyond the requirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act. “While Jonathan is deployed, he will continue to receive all of his Company benefits,” said Human Resources Director Laurie Latorre. “We are supplementing his National Guard pay so that it remains at his current civilian level. We are maintaining his medical coverage for his family as well as contributions to his retirement plan. While he is gone, his job duties will be covered by other employees through cross-training. When he returns in approximately 12 months, we will provide reverse cross-training to catch him up on the technology changes that may have taken place while he was gone.”

“All of us at The Cumberland Insurance Group are proud of Jonathan,” said Robert P. Brady, Cumberland Insurance Group President. “Considering the difficulties he and his family will be facing while he is away, we believe it is our responsibility to step up to the plate and do all we can to support him, and that is what we are going to do. It is inspiring to see individuals who are willing to take on this enormous challenge.”

The Cumberland Insurance Group is rated A+ Superior by the A.M. Best Company, and currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. In 2006, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $313,885,235 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,421,618. For more information about The Cumberland Insurance Group, please visit www.cumberlandgroup.com.

Cumberland Insurance Believes in Helping the Community


Cumberland Insurance Group Chairman and CEO Leo T. Hogan (pictured far right) presents a check
for funds raised by Cumberland employees to benefit the Lower Alloways Fire and Rescue Squad.

Pictured (L-R) Cumberland Insurance Group President Robert P. Brady, Cumberland employee and
Lower Alloways volunteer Kelli Fisher, Chief Greg Blades, and Assistant Chief Michael Fisher.

 

BRIDGETON, NJ: More and more, the involvement of a business within the community it serves is a critical component in the decision making process for potential employees, business partners, and customers. Accordingly, The Cumberland Insurance Group believes companies who practice good corporate citizenship can distinguish themselves in a market where customers are becoming more sophisticated and discerning in their decision making process. We would like to recognize our hundreds of employees who continued to demonstrate this community spirit during 2007.

“The Cumberland Insurance Group is a regional company grounded in the local communities we serve,” said Cumberland Insurance Group Chairman and CEO Leo T. Hogan. “As a result, the Company has worked hard to establish a tradition of good corporate citizenship in the communities that have supported us and helped us to prosper for over 160 years. We demonstrate this commitment with the same local emphasis in all of our business practices.”

“As a Company, we commit to living and working every day as a proud part of the community,” said Cumberland Insurance Group President Robert P. Brady. “During 2007, the Company was proud to once again sponsor the IIANJ Golf Classic for the New Jersey Make-A-Wish Foundation and our college scholarship program which benefited students at Cumberland County College in New Jersey and Delaware County Community College in Pennsylvania. Employees also helped sponsor trips for underprivileged preschool students to the Columbus Zoo in Ohio; raised money for the Lower Alloways Creek Volunteer Fire Department in Salem County, New Jersey; and so much more including pediatric cancer, muscular dystrophy, and breast cancer. Through these various efforts, the Company has helped contribute hundreds of thousands of dollars to those in need. In addition, our Board members, officers, and staff continue to give their time and expertise to a variety of civic groups, charitable organizations, faith-based groups, and special events which provide much needed help within the community.”

“Our ties to the communities we serve give us in-depth knowledge of the needs of our customers and agents,” said Richard M. Ritter, Assistant Executive Vice President in the Coatesville, Pennsylvania Office. “Our local perspective helps us to operate with a caring and responsive attitude. Professionalism, integrity, social responsibility, and community involvement continue to define the people of The Cumberland Insurance Group. We do care about the diverse communities we serve and are enthusiastic about making our contribution to the enhancement of each. We encourage employees to get involved and to bring suggestions to senior management when they see a need or feel we can make a difference. For example, we were happy to support their efforts this year in events like National Denim Day for the Susan G. Koman Foundation and the Relay For Life for the American Cancer Society.”

“We do it because it is the right thing to do,” Hogan said. “However, good corporate citizenship also makes good business sense and helps to strengthen all of our relationships within the community. We also believe it helps employees to feel more committed to the Company and more likely to be highly motivated and productive in their jobs.”

“The Cumberland Insurance Group takes pride in the impact our employees have on the communities we serve. Our goal is to continue to have an impact on a regional scale. People are the past, present, and future of The Cumberland Insurance Group. We are all committed to making our communities better places to live and work,” Hogan concluded.

The Cumberland Insurance Group is rated A+ Superior by the A.M. Best Company, and currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the States of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware. In 2006, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $313,885,235 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,421,618.


For more information about this press release, please contact Lee Tofanelli at 856-691-3113.

Cumberland Insurance Group Supports Professional Insurance Agents Branding Program

BRIDGETON, NJ: As a strong supporter of the Independent Agency System, the Cumberland Insurance Group looks for opportunities to participate in programs sponsored by insurance agency associations. One of the largest and most respected of these is the National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA). The organization was established in 1931 to support the needs of independent insurance agents. They recently launched a nation-wide Branding Program which The Cumberland Insurance Group has joined.

“We are committed to the independent agency system as our sole distribution method. As a result, the profitable relationships we have formed over the years are reflected in the strength of our agency base in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware,” said Leo T. Hogan, Cumberland Insurance Group Chairman and CEO. “We listen closely to what our agency partners have to say, and we are committed to providing them with the tools they need to be successful. This includes identifying and taking advantage of marketing opportunities.”

As a participating carrier in the PIA Branding Program, The Cumberland Insurance Group will be accepting PIA Branded advertisements with the slogan “Local Agents Serving Main Street America” as part of their Cooperative Advertising Program. By supporting their appointed agents who choose to run these ads, and by supporting the PIA Brand more generally in their press announcements, newsletters, etc., The Cumberland Insurance Group is doing their part to strengthen the independent agency distribution system and professional insurance agents.

The PIA Branding Program extends the reach of an already established identity, the neighborhood Professional Insurance Agent. The goal is to attract new customers, write more business, and increase market share for PIA member agencies and their carrier partners like The Cumberland Insurance Group.

In addition to the Branding Program, The Cumberland Insurance Group supports efforts by PIA national and state organizations to advocate on behalf of agents within industry and government, addressing emerging issues affecting the insurance industry nationwide. Cumberland Insurance Group employees also participate in PIA sponsored educational programming in order to achieve industry recognized designations such as Certified Insurance Counsel (CIC) and Certified Insurance Services Representative (CISR).

“PIA has always been very much a grassroots organization,” said Steve J. Catranis, CPCU, Cumberland Insurance Group Senior Vice President. “The PIA Branding Program is a great example of this, and one we are proud to take part in. PIA members realize the importance of an organization that advocates on their behalf and enables them to stay informed, educated, and connected to other insurance professionals.”

“PIA member agents provide the community with personal support and service, plus a choice of insurance products to meet their needs,” said Robert P. Brady, Cumberland Insurance Group President. It is our distribution system of choice because when it comes to protecting what they have worked so hard to achieve, our customers prefer to deal with someone local who they know and trust.”

The Cumberland Insurance Group is rated A+ Superior by the A.M. Best Company, and currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the States of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware. In 2006, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $313,885,235 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,421,618.


For more information about this press release, please contact Lee Tofanelli at 856-691-3113.