What’s new: In brief (March 03, 2005)

A.M. Best has been granted “nationally recognized statistical rating organization” status by the U.S. Securities Exchange Commission (SEC). The status means Best ratings can be used to distinguish creditworthiness required under federal and state laws. A.M. Best is one of five rating agencies carrying the status, and currently carries over 600 ratings on securities issued by 129 insurance and reinsurance entities.

Disaster Kleenup International (Canada) Ltd. (DKC) has a new member. Scarborough, ON based Con-Tech Restorations Ltd. has joined the network, which includes a national group of independent property damage restoration specialists. The network handles more than 55,000 claims each year, and members must adhere to a set of professional standards and code of ethics.

The Women in Insurance Cancer Crusade B.C. (WICC BC) opened its hearts on Valentines Day, presenting a cheque for $50,000 to the Canadian Cancer Society, the result of ongoing fundraising efforts. WICC BC is also gearing up for its 3rd Annual Candlelight Ball, set for April 2 at the Sutton Place Hotel in Vancouver. For more information on the event, contact Lesley Dawson-Burns at 604-669-0595 ext.214 or lesley.dawson-burns@axa-pacific.ca before March 14.