Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Friday, October 15, 2010

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month



This Month: October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Dear Barbara,October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Our Newsletter this month is devoted to Breast Cancer Awareness. Please read this valuable information and share the contents with your friends and family. Be sure that you and your loved ones schedule and attend regular screening tests and exams. Early detection of breast cancer is vital. This newsletter also includes a Quick Link to important questions you should ask your doctor if breast cancer is detected. We hope that you find this article informative. We wish the best of health to all of our clients.

Regards,
Robert B. Hall, CPCU, CLU, ChFC, ARM, ARM-P
What Is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is a malignant (cancer) tumor that starts from cells of the breast. It is found mostly in women, but men can get breast cancer, too. Here we will only talk about breast cancer in women. You can learn more about breast cancer in men in our document, Breast Cancer in Men. Parts of the normal breast To understand breast cancer, it helps to know something about the normal structure or parts of the breasts, as shown in the picture below. A woman's breast is made up of glands that make breast milk (called lobules), ducts (small tubes that carry milk from the lobules to the nipple), fatty and connective tissue, blood vessels, and lymph (pronounced limf) vessels. Most breast cancers begin in the cells that line the ducts (ductal cancer), some begin in the lobules (lobular cancer), and a small number start in other tissues.More

What Causes Breast Cancer?

Certain changes in DNA can cause normal breast cells to become cancer. DNA is the chemical in each of our cells that makes up our genes -- the instructions for how our cells work. Some inherited DNA changes (mutations) can increase the risk for developing cancer and cause the cancers that run in some families. For instance, BRCA1 and BRCA2 are tumor suppressor genes -- they keep cancer tumors from forming. When they are changed (mutated), they no longer cause cells to die at the right time, and cancer is more likely to develop. But most breast cancer DNA changes happen in single breast cells during a woman's life rather than having been inherited. So far, the causes of most of the DNA mutations that could lead to breast cancer are not known. More

Quick Links
What Are Some Questions I Can Ask My Doctor?Celebrating 25 Years of Awareness, Education, and EmpowermentFind a Low Cost Screening Location Near You

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IMPORTANT!
In the Daily Local News you will find this ballot in the Thursday & Sunday editions. We would appreciate your Vote as we celebrate our 64th year of Service!

How Is Breast Cancer Found?

The term screening refers to tests and exams used to find a disease like cancer in people who do not have any symptoms. The earlier breast cancer is found, the better the chances that treatment will work. The goal is to find cancers before they start to cause symptoms. The size of a breast cancer and how far it has spread are the most important factors in predicting the outlook for the patient. Most doctors feel that tests for finding breast cancer early save many thousands of lives each year. Following the guidelines given here improves the chances that breast cancer can be found at an early stage and treated with success.More



How Is Breast Cancer Treated?
General types of treatment Treatments can be put into broad groups based on how they work and when they are used. Local or systemic treatment Local treatment is used to treat a tumor without affecting the rest of the body. Surgery and radiation are examples of local treatment. Systemic treatment is given into the bloodstream or by mouth and goes throughout the body to reach cancer cells that may have spread beyond the breast. Chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy are systemic treatments. More
FRANCIS HALL INSURANCE & RISK MANAGEMENT SERVICES 1065 Andrew Drive, Suite B1 P.O. Box 5010 West Chester PA 19380-5010610-696-5100 1-800-851-HALL Fax 610-696-9358 www.francishall.com
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Thursday, April 22, 2010

INSURANCE UPDATES

LEAD PAINT LAW, WEST CHESTER, PA
http://www.francishall.com/

DO YOU KNOW THE LAW?The Toxic Substances Control Act ("TSCA"), which contains a rule known as the Pre-Renovation Lead Information Rule ("PLIR”), requires contractors doing renovation work to provide the Environmental Protection Agency's ("EPA") PLIR pamphlet, "Renovate Right: Important Lead Hazard Information for Families, Child Care Providers and Schools," to the owner (and any tenant) of pre-1978 housing where work is being done. This disclosure requirement covers most residential and commercial home improvement jobs, including all window replacement work - contrary to what many attorneys believe.
Non-compliance can mean penalties ranging up to $37,500 per violation, per day. One mid-size contractor is currently faced with over $10 million in fines from the EPA. Surprised you never heard of this? Don’t be! Most attorneys do not understand our industry, and have no idea how to represent a remodeler or home improvement contractor. If you think otherwise, just call your attorney and see if they even know what you are talking about! When you are ready to stop wasting time and money, and risking your business, call us!
DO YOU KNOW WHAT'S COMING?Effective April 22, 2010 new laws are going to require that contractors become responsible for, and liable for, taking care of lead paint problems on a job site!
You'll need to undergo training and certification. With strict enforcement by both the states and EPA, you will need to have your people trained in the use of lead-safe work practices, and your company will have to be certified with the EPA! Our industry experts are in contact on a regular basis with the EPA, so we can track and advise our clients as soon any revisions are made to the laws.

Thursday, April 1, 2010

Our Staff

President

Robert B. Hall, CPCU, CLU, ChFC, ARM, ARM-P
610-696-5100
Pager: 1-800-479-3085
Title: President & Risk Management Consultant
Keystone Volunteer Insurance Groupfahall@francishall.com or rhall@kvig.com or rhall@afirm.cc

Executive Vice President
Margaret (Mickey) Broyles-Hall, ARM, ARM-P
610-696-2577
Title: Vice President of Operations and Risk Management Consultant
Certified Trainer for Training Intervention Procedures (TIPS)
mbroyles-hall@francishall.com or mbroyles-hall@kvig.com or mbroyles-hall@afirm.cc

Personal Insurance · Auto · HomeRenters · Recreational Vehicles

Agent
Steve Ketchum CPIA 610-696-0254
Title: Personal Lines Agent
Home Owners, Personal Auto, Personal Floaters & Umbrella
sketchum@francishall.com

Agent
Lynn Burke 610-696-5720
Title: Personal Lines Agent
Home Owners, Personal Auto, Personal Floaters & Umbrella
lburke@francishall.com

Agent
Susan Watmuff 610-696-3940
Title: Personal Lines Agent
Home Owners, Personal Auto, Personal Floaters & UmbrellaLife Insurance
swatmuff@francishall.com

Commercial Insurance · Life ·Health ·Special NeedsFinancial Planning & Annuities

Agent
Donna M. Pearson, CISR 610-696-3842
Title: Account Executive
Commercial, Specialty, Municipalities, Public Entities, Umbrella, BondsWorkers’ Compensation
dpearson@francishall.com

Thomas G. Hirst, CISR 610-696-2544
Title: Commercial Lines Account Associate
Commercial, Specialty, Emergency, Services, Bonds, Umbrella, Workers' Compensation, Life Insurance
thirst@francishall.com

Executive producer
James Tierney, CIC 610-696-0544
Title: Commercial Lines Account Manager
jtierney@francishall.com
Agency Associate
Lisa Greene 610-696-2536
Title: Agency Associate
lgreene@francishall.com

Vicki Eberwein
Title: Commercial Lines Associate
veberwein@francishall.com

About Us

In these constantly changing times, you need someone who will look out for your needs. Someone with the experience and professionalism needed to stay on top of the details that protect you, your family, and your business. Someone who can answer your questions and provide good, sound advice.

We at Francis Hall Insurance and Risk Management Services have been helping families, as well as businesses, for more than half a century.

We have the professionalism and foresight to stay educated and informed. We have the caring ability to apply that knowledge to your insurance and financial needs.

By keeping up with current insurance and financial trends, and offering outstanding service that emphasizes long-term relationships, Francis A. Hall, Inc. has earned a reputation for its integrity and commitment to its clients and the community.

Providing stability, vision and empathy, we have been here for you and your business in the past and will be here for you in this new century.

You need someone in your insurance and financial corner. You need Francis Hall Insurance and Risk Management Services

Report a Claim

Blue Cross Blue Shield
http://www.bcbs.com/

Cumberland Insurance Group
http://www.Cumberlandgroup.com/

CNA Insurance
http://www.CNA.com/

Foremost Insurance
http://www.Foremost.com/

Harford Mutual Insurance Companies
http://www.Harfordmutual.com

Ohio National Financial
http://www.Ohionational.com/

Assurity Life Insurance
http://www.assurity.com/

UNUM
http://www.unum.com/

Provident Agency
http://www.providentbenefits.com/

The Hartford
http://www.thehartford.com/

Selective Insurance Group
http://www.selective.com/

State Workmen's Insurance Fund
http://www.Dli.state.pa.us

Progressive Insurance
http://www.Dli.state.pa.us

St. Paul Travelers
http://www.travelers.com

Lebanon Mutual Insurance Company
http://www.lebins.com

Zurich
http://www.zurich.com

Chubb Insurance Group
http://www.chubb.com

AmeriHealth Casualty
http://www.amerihealthcasualty.com/

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Hours and Directions

HOURS: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM - Weekdays
Evenings and Weekends by appointment
Cell Phone Access: 24/7
Francis Hall Insurance and Risk Management Services is conveniently located near the intersection of US Route 322 and Phoenixville Pike.

Francis A. Hall, Inc.
1065 Andrew Drive, Suite B1, P.O. Box 5010
West Chester, PA 19380-5010
610-696-5100
1-800-851-HALL (4255)
610-696-9358


Employment Opportunities

Working with the companies we represent in a positive manner
Developing and working with prospects and current clients in an effort to promote the insurance agency
Work with Commercial Lines staff on new business
Work with Commercial Lines staff on maintaining current clients in a professional manner
Monitor client claims professionally
Full-time position

Personal Lines Account Agent

Working with a team of Personal Lines Staff
Working with the companies we represent in a positive manner
Developing and working with prospects and current clients in an effort to promote the insurance agency
Work with Personal Lines staff on new business and cross-selling
Work with Personal Lines staff on maintaining current clients in a professional manner
Monitor client claims professionally
Respond to clients in a timely manner
Provide renewal review for all clients
Full-time position

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to everyone, employment decisions at the Agency are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. The Agency has been and will continue to be an equal opportunity Agency. The Agency does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, citizenship or any other characteristic protected by law. To assure full implementation of this policy, the Agency will assure that all employment decisions are based solely on the individual’s qualifications for the respective position.

Public Entity Protection Program: Insurance Solutions with Risk Management Preventative Applications Measures

Francis Hall Insurance & Risk Management Services has been providing the “Power of Solutions” for their clients since 1946. Since 1965 the Agency has been involved in providing “Insurance and Risk Management Solutions” for our Municipal clients through the division of “Public Entity Protection Program” or PEPP.

PEPP: offers highly customized coverage for the municipal sector, including cities, towns, townships, boroughs and villages– population size is not a concern. Other special purpose entities, such as park or recreation commissions, library boards and sewer, parking and water authorities, further are offered a comprehensive program as well.

The underwriting and marketing approach is characterized by the delivery of a tailored yet broad product portfolio with the application of “Risk Management” services. PEPP focuses on providing more than just “Insurance Contracts” for their Municipal clients. Identifying potential claims (risk exposures) is a major focus of their staff’s efforts. This differentiates PEPP from its competitors by positively defining it as one of the few providers servicing this customer segment with the capability to offer such a fully integrated approach. The underwriting philosophy of the various carriers that PEPP represents employs a state-specific discipline, moving toward capabilities that will be national in scope, offering stability and delivery of tailored and integrated coverage at appropriate pricing levels, targeting those entities seeking long-term relationships with their insurance provider partners.
Insurance Coverage Solutions Offered:

Property
Inland Marine (Equipment, EDP, Traffic Lights, etc.)
General Liability
Extended Reporting Liability Endorsement (NOSE)
Employee Liability
Automobile
Excess Liability – Limits up to $10,000,000. Or greater if needed
Public Officials' Errors and Omissions
Employment Practices Liability
Law Enforcement Liability
Crime – Public Officials Bonding and Blanket Employee Dishonesty
Workers Compensation
Public Law 477 (Heart & Lung Act)
Group Employee Benefits
PEPP works with many established Insurance providers:
AmeriHealth Casualty – Blue Cross Workers Compensation
Housing & Redevelopment Insurance Exchange (H.A.I.R.E.)
MRM Property & Liability Trust and MRM Workers Compensation Trust - PSAT’s Endorsed
Penn Prime Trust – PA League of Cities
PRIME
National Casualty Insurance Company – Subsidiary Nationwide Ins. Co.
Philadelphia Insurance Companies
Scottsdale Insurance Company – Subsidiary Nationwide Ins. Co.
Selective Insurance Companies
St. Paul Travelers Insurance Companies
Steadfast Insurance Company – Pollution Liability
Zurich Group

Community Info


Welcoming the new YMCA


Cutting the ribbon Thursday afternoon for the newly dedicated West Chester Area YMCA in East Goshen are West Chester Y Board Chairwomen Stacey Fuller and Mickey Hall, with John Ciccarone. The ceremony also featured the dedication of the building as the Norma Ciccarone Family Center. The entire Ciccarone family, including John, Tommy, Donny and Todd Ciccarone, were on hand for the celebration. The dedication, led by YMCA Capital Campaign Co-Chairs Robert Hall and Susan Casso Rogers, along with YMCA CEO Gary Green, YMCA of the Brandywine Valley Board Chairwoman Donna Coughey, Fuller and West Chester YMCA executive Director Kathy Sullivan, was a lead-in to the YMCA’s Good Kids Sneaker Peek Gala scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 4. The YMCA opens to members and the community at noon Sunday, Oct. 12. The community is invited to visit the YMCA membership office at the new facility at 605 Airport Road in East Goshen. The membership office is open Monday through Friday 4 p.m. to 7 p. m.; Saturday, 8 am to 5 pm and Sunday, 11 am to 4 pm. For information about the new YMCA, call 610-431-9622 or visit http://www.ymcabwv.org/.

Companies We Represent

Cumberland Insurance Group
CNA Insurance
Foremost Insurance
Harford Mutual Insurance Companies
Ohio National Financial
Selective Insurance Group
The Hartford
Chubb Group Insurance
AmeriHealth Casualty
State Workmen's Insurance Fund
Progressive Insurance
St. Paul Travelers
Lebanon Mutual Insurance Company
Zurich
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Assurity Life Insurance
UNUM

Financial, Life, Health Special Needs Insurance


Our financial services team provides employee benefit funding and individual life insurance programs. We also offer a wide range of group health and life products to enhance your company benefit package. These programs may be obtained Individually or as part of a complete growth and security program.

We are proudly affiliated with companies that focus on your immediate and future needs. The professionals at Francis Hall grow with you, and promote responsible planning for road ahead. Please see our Affiliations Page to see who we enjoy doing business with.Our many financial services Include:

Annuities
Individual Term, Term-Plus and Whole Life Products
Individual Universal Life Products
Joint Insurance
Joint and Last Survivor Products
Buy and Sell Agreement Funding
Business and Personal Consultations
Dental and Prescription Drug Plans
Major Medical

Estate Conservation
Group Life, Health and Disability Insurance
Individual Disability Insurance
Individual Retirement Accounts
Key Executive Compensation Planning
Pension 7 Profit-Sharing Plans
Nursing Home and Home Health Care Coverage
401(k), 403(b), and HR-10 Plans
Quarterly Newsletter, "Professional in Action"

For More Information, Call Toll Free 1-800-851-Hall (4255) or email us at mailto:fahall@francishall.com?subject=Hall

Homeowners and Personal Automobile Insurance

Diversity is a key factor for success, and our experienced diverse staff knows what it takes to insure your diverse personal needs.

Personal Insurance in today's environment requires careful selection, attention to detail, and a premium that is justifiable. Our professionals maintain a high level of personal service that educates our clients on the importance of insurance protection that allows them to sleep at night. Unless you are an agent yourself, you most likely need someone to help you understand how insurance works, and what your REAL needs are.

Our professionals have earned, and are working towards several Insurance designations to better serve you. In addition, many of our professionals hold degrees in several fields of study, thus providing you with a wide range of experience and knowledge. If you own a business and are current client of ours, or considering our personal product line, ask our staff about our Commercial lines of insurance as well. Francis Hall could be your one stop for insurance coverage!We provide many choices for your personal insurance coverage needs. We believe that alternatives followed by professional recommendations ensure peace of mind, and the assurance that your needs come first.Our personal insurance coverage's included, but is not limited to:

Private Passenger Automobile
Private Homeowners (Renters & Condos)
Money Saving Combination Packages
Personal Articles Floaters
Personal Umbrellas

Recreation Vehicles
Seasonal Homes and Properties
Boats
Antique and Collectors Vehicles

For More Information, Call Toll Free 1-800-851-Hall (4255) or email us at fahall@francishall.com

Business/Commercial Insurance and Business Auto Insurance

Proper Planning against loss by astute business owners is one of the best means to ensure future success. Our highly qualified professionals take the time to understand your business needs, and recommend coverages that will protect you in the event of a loss. Through careful analysis of your business, we're able to design a comprehensive program that gives you what you need. Our professionals are fully experienced at handling such diverse businesses as contractors, retail and wholesale stores, strip malls, restaurants, apartment owners, emergency services, municipalities, and much more.Listed below are just a handful of the many products avaliable to our commercial clients.

Bonds (all types, except Bail Bonds)
Business Automobile
Business Premises and Contents
Business Floater Policies
Business Insurance Packages (all types)
Commercial Fire Policies
Commercial Umbrellas
Garage Liability (auto repairs)
Product Liability
Professional Liability (E&O)

Systems Breakdown
Computer Hardware and Software
Business Property Extension Packages
Business Equipment and Tool Coverage
Employee Dishonesty and Theft Coverage
Worker's Compensation
Employee and Volunteer Training:TIPS-Training Intervention ProceduresSafety Committee Training Sexual Harassment Seminars

For more information call:
Toll Free 1-800-851-Hall (4255)or email us at fahall@francishall.com