News (February 01, 2002)

Adjusters, their suppliers, clients and special guests met at the Metro Convention Center in Toronto recently for the Ontario Insurance Adjusters Association annual Christmas Party (see photos below, courtesy Stephanie Lake Photography). The event was also a chance to welcome new OIAA president Louise Rivett. The OIAA next meets for its Claims 2002 conference, February 6 in Toronto.

Regina has gained the dubious distinction of having the highest car theft rates in North America in 2000. With 1,594 thefts per 100,000 population, Regina beat out New York, Washington and Los Angeles. However, the city also has a 96% recovery rate, as most thefts are the result of “joy riding”. Toronto had the lowest rate in North America at 365 thefts per 100,000 people. The study, conducted by StatsCan and the FBI also finds that Canada overall has more theft then the U.S., a difference primarily due to the large number of SUV, truck and minivan thefts in Canada.

The Insurance Marketing Communications Association (IMCA) and Life Communicators Association (LCA) held a joint board meeting at the Toronto Hilton on January 13, in advance of their annual meeting, also scheduled for the Hilton, June 23 to 26. Temie Seibert (pictured), executive director of IMCA, says the annual event presents members the opportunity to attend educational sessions led by top industry professionals and to participate in the organizations’ annual awards competition. Seibert stresses that the IMCA/LCA joint annual meeting is open for attendance by non-members, as an opportunity to discover the nature and benefits of the association to insurance marketing and communications professionals.