SINCE 1994 WITH SCA LIONS GATE HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER At McClellan Park 3410 Westover Street, Sacramento, CA 95652 @ The October 9th luncheon will also feature our annual election for several new members of the board of Director's. Nominations and/or volunteer nominees are being accepted at this time. A commitment to working to further the growth and professionalism of the Sacramento Claims Association, and the Property & Casualty Insurance Claims profession is a must. Dedication to working as a member of a team; working as part of one or more committees; and a commitment to a high ethical standard are all prerequisite. Contact a current board member to be considered. For payment by cash or check at the door, please make your reservation now with SCA Board Member April Wilkinson : [email protected]or 916-410-0865 3 Free to carrier personnel (donations to the SCA Charitable Fund in lieu of fee appreciated) 3 $20 Independent Insurance Adjusters 3 $32 Assoc. Members w/Reservations made by 10/6/14 3 $45 guests and after 10/6/14 Secure your spot at: www.SacramentoClaims.org Join The SCA in welcoming returning guest speaker, Mr. Brad Balentine, of David Morse & Associates, for a look at “Newton’s Laws of Motion: The Physics of Fraud” at our next luncheon meeting, Thursday, October 9, 2014. Newton’s Laws of Motion act as silent witnesses that provide a form of testimony to help assess the accuracy, and perhaps even the honesty, of a statement. Understanding them can be helpful in evaluating evidence from a claim. Knowing Newton’s Laws of Motion and applying that knowledge to the world of claims can be a useful tool to help detect inaccuracy or fraud. This presentation reviews Newton’s 3 Laws of Motion and gives examples of how they could apply to claims evaluation. Brad Balentine is Director of the Special Investigations Unit for David Morse & Associates, a multi-state claims services com- pany headquartered in California. He has over 20 years experience as a fraud investigator and manager. Mr. Balentine is a licensed private investigator in California and Florida, and certified as a continuing education instructor. He has provided testimony as an expert witness, and has authored several published articles on the subject of insurance fraud. 11:30 a.m. Check-in • Noon - 1p.m. Luncheon
Transcript
Newton’s Laws of Motion: The Physics of Fraud
w w w.SacramentoClaims.org
SINCE 1994 WITH SCA
LIONS GATE HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER
At McClellan Park 3410 Westover Street, Sacramento, CA 95652
T h u r s d a y October 9, 2014
@
Sacramento Claims Association News Network
The October 9th luncheon will also feature our annual election for several new members of the board ofDirector's. Nominations and/or volunteer nominees are being accepted at this time. A commitment to working to further the growth and professionalism of the Sacramento Claims Association, and the Property & Casualty Insurance Claims profession is a must. Dedication to working as a member of a team; working as part of one or more committees; and a commitment to a high ethical standard are all prerequisite. Contact a current board member to be considered.
For payment by cash or check at the door, please make your reservation now
3 Free to carrier personnel (donations to the SCA Charitable Fund in lieu of fee appreciated)3 $20 Independent Insurance Adjusters3 $32 Assoc. Members w/Reservations made by 10/6/14 3 $45 guests and after 10/6/14Secure your spot at: www.SacramentoClaims.org
Join The SCA in welcoming returning guest speaker, Mr. Brad Balentine, of David Morse & Associates, for a look at “Newton’s Laws of Motion: The Physics of Fraud” at our next luncheon meeting, Thursday, October 9, 2014.Newton’s Laws of Motion act as silent witnesses that provide a form of testimony to help assess the accuracy, and perhaps even the honesty, of a statement. Understanding them can be helpful in evaluating evidence from a claim. Knowing Newton’s Laws of Motion and applying that knowledge to the world of claims can be a useful tool to help detect inaccuracy or fraud. This presentation reviews Newton’s 3 Laws of Motion and gives examples of how they could apply to claims evaluation.Brad Balentine is Director of the Special Investigations Unit for David Morse & Associates, a multi-state claims services com-pany headquartered in California. He has over 20 years experience as a fraud investigator and manager. Mr. Balentine is a licensed private investigator in California and Florida, and certified as a continuing education instructor. He has provided testimony as an expert witness, and has authored several published articles on the subject of insurance fraud.
Election of 2015 Board Members
11:30 a.m. Check-in • Noon - 1p.m. Luncheon
2 Sacramento Claims Association News Network • September 2014
President Vice President Secretary TreasurerYour 2014 SCA Executive Staff
Barbara Tyler, sclaCalifornia Fair Services Authority
Sacramento Claims Association News Network • September 2014 3
2014 SCA President Bob Battezzato
The SCA is holding Elections for the Board at the October Luncheon meeting (10/9/2014). I would encourage anyone who would like to get involved to reach out to me, a board member or the SCA Website http://www.sacramentoclaims.org/ for your chance to serve at a higher level. Serving on the Board of Directors for the SCA is a great way to get involved in this Industry. Additionally you will work with and meet countless individuals that are committed to the industry at a higher level. Giving their time and input to make the SCA great for all to be part of. It helps in your personal and professional growth and can open doors to areas and opportunities you would not otherwise have access to. Serving the Association is something that is very rewarding as the members look to us for direction and vision of our SCA. I would personally welcome any discussion from you if you are considering to run. I know that for me it has been one of the best things I have done in my career. It takes
September Message from 2014 SCA President Bob Battezzato
continue page 6
This is your Opportunity to Get Involved!- 2015 Elections for the SCA Board
4 Sacramento Claims Association News Network • September 2014
SEPTEMBER 2014 • Volume XX • Number IXwww.SacramentoClaims.org
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Your 2014 SCA Executive Staff & Board of Directors
September Message from 2013-’14 SCA President Bob Battezzato
Recent SCA Charitable Beneficiaries
People On The Move!
SCA 2014 Calendar of Upcoming Events Board Member Nominations now being accepted - October election
September Ethics CE Course Looks Beyond Basic Customer Service
Newton’s Laws of Motion: The Physics of Fraud at October 9th SCA Luncheon
SCA Sacramento Claims Association News Network Service Directory Sponsors
Sacramento Claims Association News Network • September 2014 5
Welcome Haldeman Construction to the CommunityContractor Jason Haldeman says that it was in the face of the economic downturn that he first looked for new ways to keep his passion for structural work alive. Having been involved in home building for some 28 years, expertise was not an issue. He was able to join-up with a prominent Sac-ramento area construction company who specialized in insurance repair work in 2012. There, he worked as an estimator, purchasing agent, project
manager, and business development assistant up until early this year. “I am thankful to have worked with a high-quality insurance repair contractor,” he tells us. “They helped provide me with the knowledge and skills to be a part of this niche market.”Fast forward to May, 2014, when Jason decided it was time to take
up the reins of his own firm. As President of Haldeman Construction, Jason leads a driven crew in handling Insurance repair and reconstruc-tion.” He points out they “do not handle mitigation. Water, wind, and fire damage repair, emergency services, residential private remodeling, and structural consulting,” he says are their forté. Born and raised in Auburn his whole life, Jason is happy to stay within about a 50-mile radius from Roseville. “So, the I-80 corridor from Elk Grove to Nevada City, and the I-50 corridor from Cameron Park to Davis,” he explains.“I’ve been building custom homes and remodeling hands-on since 1988. I’ve been a licensed contractor since year 2000,” he shares. The son of a builder, Jason’s expertise lives in his genes. “My father (Jan Haldeman of Haldeman Homes) is a highly respected builder/developer in Auburn, and he taught me the ropes of construction since I was 18 years old.”A graduate of Chico State University (philosophy and journalism), Jason holds a California General Contractor’s license, Lic# 789012.
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6 Sacramento Claims Association News Network • September 2014
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President’s Message
Bob BattezzatoBob Battezzato2013 President Sacramento Claims [email protected](530) 570-9070
the understanding of the business to another level and gives one an opportunity to give back. Not to mention the business associates I have made and the friends I have developed. Again, if you are interested please reach out to one of the board members as there are specific steps that you need to take to be eligible.As the 4th Quarter approaches, we are still going strong to the end of the year; - 10/9 luncheon “Newton’s 3 Laws & Insurance Claims by Brad Balentine. - 10/9 luncheon Election of New Board Members. - 11/13 luncheon “Towing Rates, Liens, Storage & The Move Over Law by Larry Muzamel form the California Tow Truck Association. - 12/11 luncheon “Annual Charitable Donations” and a recap of 2014 what to look for in 2015.Again the message for this month is… “Get Involved!”
It will be the best thing you ever did personally and for your career. I appreciate all of our supporters, members and Board who constantly work to make the Sacramento Claims Association a great organization where we all can meet and share good times. Help us by stepping up, giving back and rewarding yourself with this opportunity. You can have a major role in continuing to develop the SCA with its Vision and Goals. Especially in the direction of the SCA and how it will benefit its members. We welcome your input and your involvement with the SCA at this next level…Board Member.My Door is Always Open!
Sacramento Claims Association News Network • September 2014 7
Throw Your Hat In The Ring!Election Time Is Just Around The CornerNew Volunteers To Join The SCA Board
Members Are NeededElection will be held at the October 9, 2014 Luncheon meeting.
Please submit your nomination (yourself or other qualified member) asap. Contact one of our current board members for more info, or to get set up.
current board listed on page 2
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2014-’15Calendar of EventsThursday, October 9, 2014Luncheon Meeting Newton’s Laws of Motion: The Physics of FraudBrad Ballentine, SIU Director for David Morse & Associates returns with this new topic! plus SCA Board Elections - see page 9
Thursday, November 13, 2014Luncheon Meeting Move Over! Towing Rates, Liens, and The California “Move Over” LawGuest Speaker Larry Muzamel, Executive Director, California Tow Truck Association
Thursday, December 11, 2014Luncheon Meeting Annual Charities Donations
Sacramento Claims Association
8 Sacramento Claims Association News Network • September 2014
The definition of “Ethical” is “conforming to accepted and especially professional standards of conduct syn..virtuous , moral and principled.”The Sacramento Claims Association featured a three-hour continuing education morning seminar, presented by Ruth Griffith, of Servpro of Auburn/Rocklin, September 11, 2014 at LionsGate. “It was the best Ethics Seminar I have ever attended,” stated Linda Hansen, of Farmers Insurance. As an SCA board member, and a company claims person, Linda said she could not have been more pleased.Ms. Griffith explained that the term "in the work Environment” means an expectation of “fairness during the claims process.” Providing your insured or claimant complete and ac-curate coverage information, and a complete scope and valuation of claim is a reflection of maintaining strong work ethics. She added that an ethical position “involves fair and reasonable payment for injuries, and reassurance to the customer of their total and complete privacy".During the course of the three hour session, the group of attendees were encouraged to consider how their ethical behavior goes beyond the Customer and claimants. They covered where ethics play a role with interactions in a wide array of jobs, whether with Doctors, Attorneys, Salesmen, engineers Mitigation Specialists, Body shop. “How about everyday in all aspects of our lives.”The course examined many ways in which people abuse ethics in the workplace, including: stealing - from taking extra pens or paper for home use,etc., to money, or, arguably most importantly, time (even a few minutes here and there).
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September Ethics CE Course Looks Beyond Basic Customer ServiceBy Lynna Harrison, Association News Network, Inc.Photos by Bryan Harrison
Continued page 10
Ruth Griffith presented what was described as “the best ethics seminar I’ve ever seen.”
Adjusters Cathrin Nevin (SCA Secretary), of Carl Warren & Company; and KayLyn Moore-Harris, with AGCS Marine Insurance Company.
Sacramento Claims Association News Network • September 2014 9
LIONS GATE HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER
At McClellan Park 3410 Westover Street, Sacramento, CA 95652
T h u r s d a y October 9, 2014
Newton’s Laws of Motion: The Physics of Fraud
@
Sacramento Claims Association
Is pleased to present
The October 9th luncheon will also feature our annual election for several new members of the board ofDirector's. Nominations and/or volunteer nominees are being accepted at this time. A commitment to working to further the growth and professionalism of the Sacramento Claims Association, and the Property & Casualty Insurance Claims profession is a must. Dedication to working as a member of a team; working as part of one or more committees; and a commitment to a high ethical standard are all prerequisite. Contact a current board member to be considered.
For payment by cash or check at the door, please make your reservation now
3 Free to carrier personnel (donations to the SCA Charitable Fund in lieu of fee appreciated)3 $20 Independent Insurance Adjusters3 $32 Assoc. Members w/Reservations made by 10/6/14 3 $45 guests and after 10/6/14Secure your spot at: www.SacramentoClaims.org
Join The SCA in welcoming returning guest speaker, Mr. Brad Balentine, of David Morse & Associates, for a look at “Newton’s Laws of Motion: The Physics of Fraud” at our next luncheon meeting, Thursday, October 9, 2014.Newton’s Laws of Motion act as silent witnesses that provide a form of testimony to help assess the accuracy, and perhaps even the honesty, of a statement. Understanding them can be helpful in evaluating evidence from a claim. Knowing Newton’s Laws of Motion and applying that knowledge to the world of claims can be a useful tool to help detect inaccuracy or fraud. This presentation reviews Newton’s 3 Laws of Motion and gives examples of how they could apply to claims evaluation.Brad Balentine is Director of the Special Investigations Unit for David Morse & Associates, a multi-state claims services com-pany headquartered in California. He has over 20 years experience as a fraud investigator and manager. Mr. Balentine is a licensed private investigator in California and Florida, and certified as a continuing education instructor. He has provided testimony as an expert witness, and has authored several published articles on the subject of insurance fraud.
Election of 2015 Board Members
11:30 a.m. Check-in • Noon - 1p.m. Luncheon
10 Sacramento Claims Association News Network • September 2014
For those not adhering to a high ethical standard it can be easy to rationalize that “the company won't miss it”, or “I am not paid enough”, or that “the company doesn't deserve my loyalty”.The effects on a broad scale of such unethical business abuse is potentially huge. Everyone faces higher premi-ums, repair cost prices, even business failure, or fewer jobs.At the luncheon that followed, all were introduced to the com-mittee leaders from the Sacramento Claims Association Board of Directors. Each spoke a brief and enticing outline of their com-mittee’s function. It was a fun and interesting change from the regular luncheon speaker approach, as the board members encour-aged others involved in the organization to serve on committees, and consider running for the opening board seats for 2015..The 50/50 Raffle was won by Sam Mc Killip of Units/Sacramento.The next luncheon will be held on October 9, 2014 at the Lion's Gate at McClellan Park. Check-in starts at 11:30am. This Lun-cheon will feature the return of Brad Ballentine as our guest speaker, as well as the annual Election to fill the open seats on the Board of Directors of the Sacramento Claims Association.
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Sacramento Claims Association News Network • September 2014 13SCA GIVING COMMITTEE
Charitable Implementation SurveyThank you to all our SCA members who have collectively made it possible to fulfill our Mission by providing continuing education and community support through various contributions over the years.In recognition of the outstanding contributions of the SCA membership, we have been able to establish our Giving Committee. As this is YOUR Association, we appreciate any and all ideas. We want to hear from you! The Giving Committee receives a percentage of net funds upon completion of the accounting report and approval of the Board each year. These funds are then distributed to support three areas:
Scholarship/Education • Donations/Charitable • Relief/Catastrophe.Our most productive fundraising results come through events we hold throughout the year, the most significant of which is the Golf Tournament. We appreciate all the support shown to the continuing development of our association, and ask that you now give us your feedback on where to best apply our Giving Committee funds.
Please take a few moments and complete this questionnaire.1) In addition to current activities and efforst, what other fundraising ideas you would like to suggest the SCA consider pursuing (Please list)? _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________
2) Would you be willing to participate/assist with an SCA fundraiser? Yes No If yes, Please supply your Contact Information: Name ____________________________________________ Company _________________________________________ Phone ___________________________________________ Email ____________________________________________
3) What categories would you prefer your SCA contribution support?
4) Do you have a specific organization(s) that you would recommend the SCA consider? _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________** Please submit any supporting information for your recommended charitable organization for review and consideration.
5) Would you consider Volunteering, in coordination with the SCA and another charitable organization for the betterment of our community? If so, do you have suggestions, i.e., wrapping gifts for Salvation Army, organizing food boxes for food shelters, etc.? _______________________________________________________________________
Please return this survey to Giving Committee Chair, Cathrin Nevin at the next SCA event, or mail to:Cathrin Nevin, c/o Carl Warren & Co.11171 Sun Center Drive, #260, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670 Thank you for your time and participation!
14 Sacramento Claims Association News Network • September 2014
2014 SCA Street Team!Direct communication still reins as the most effective way to reach out to the overall community. SCA is proud to announce its new “Street Team” volunteers. Get to know one today!
Join the SCA Thursday, November 13, 2014, as we welcome Larry Muzamel, Executive Director of the California Tow Truck Association, who will speak to a variety of issues related to tow-ing, and claims.Learn about the potential conflicts on a “police” tow as compared to an “insurance” tow. Addi-
tionally, he will offer-up information on the storage and impound area. “I’ve been working with the DMV on the lien sale process in CA,” he informs us. “Seems we are becoming the “title washing” state, so we’ve approached them about assisting in cleaning up this issue.” To the extent there is interest, he may also share details of the technicalities of towing, specifically on correct ways to avoid additional damage to the vehicle, etc. Billing is always an issue, too, so Mr. Muzamel may pro-vide a comparison on the CHP billing guidelines, as well.
Towing Rates, Liens, Storage, and the “Move Over” Law at the Nov 13 SCA Plan Now To Attend The
November 13, 2014 SCA Luncheon Meeting
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Additionally, he possesses expert computer consulting and repair skills. He also owns Auburn Computer Help, and “I’m also an expert with residential framing and structural components of a home. I’m able to provide consulting for adjusters that have complex structural losses.” Haldeman Construction has hit the ground running, according to Jason. “We signed over 30 jobs in the first 90 days of business,” he states with an air of excitement. “Our customers frequently compliment us on our communication skills, our quality employees and subs, and the way we educate them on the insurance repair process.”Jason sees the business growing in size and stature. “I am very proud of our quality and level of customer service. My goal is to always be involved in each project, even when we grow larger as a company.”Appreciation runs deep, too. “I am very thankful to the various vendors who have helped us with referrals and introductions to homeowners and adjusters. We look forward to showing others in the industry our special level of service and quality.”In addition to his long-term love of building, Jason tells us, “I love computers and technology. I enjoy teaching others how to use Xac-timate, and how to fix their computers.”A multi-talented man, Jason is also a musician, and a bit of a sports-man. “I have played drums since I was 8 years old, and have stay involved with various church bands. I also love golf!”
Jason Haldeman, of Haldeman Construction, may be reached at: 530-885-8085; or by email: [email protected].
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A leader in Asbestos, Lead, and Mold Abatement; Biohazard Clean-up and Demolition, 1-888-4-Abatement services All of Northern California, from Fresno to the Oregon border, as well as Northern Nevada. Bethany explains that she “was intro-duced into the industry by a family member, and boy am I glad she did!” Originally from Washington state,
Bethany’s experience includes having been a Wedding Consultant before her now two and a half years experience in the industry. Among her strongest accomplishments thus far, she beams when she describes “how quickly I have connected with so many wonderful people in this industry, and beyond”. “Wherever Bethany goes her positive attitude brings sunshine, and that sunshine has already produced growth in our business, states Neil Ostrander, President of 1-888-4-Abatement. “We are excited to have her on our team; we believe in her capabilities, are excited to see her potential unleashed. And, know 1-888-4-ABATEMENT is very lucky to have her.” he continued. “I am so excited to have joined the 888-4-Abatement family. Not only are they a great bunch of people, whom I am proud to work with, but their reputation of integrity and quality work is absolutely true. We can’t wait to ‘Wow!’ you, Bethany exclaims. She wraps up with an offer: “I play the harp. Not well, but I am will-ing to play at your holiday party if you give me a job lead.” Bethany Woodward may be reached at: 916-350-1352, or [email protected]
People On The MoveContinued from page 5
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Newton’s Laws Of Motion:The Physics of Fraud at October 9, 2014 SCA - 2015 Board Elections, as well.
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