The deadline for entries in the annual National UnderwriterCommercial Insurance Agency of the Year award program is looming!All material must be in to me by July 14. Click here for details and an entry form! Agencies need not benominated by any outside party to enter. All who feel worthy arewelcome to compete! Read on for a summary of the award program'sbenefits and reactions from past champions.

The three finalists will win a free trip to New York City, whereNUs 2008 Champion will be announced and given a trophy at a specialceremony on Sept. 26, with the remaining two finalists awarded aplaque for an Honorable Mention.

All three finalists will be profiled in NUs Sept. 29 edition. Inaddition, the finalists will participate in a special NU Roundtablefollowing the award presentation to discuss The Future of theIndependent Agent. Highlights will appear in the Nov. 3edition.

David Becker, president of last years championCottingham &Butler of Dubuque, Iowasaid winning the NU award provides the stampof credibility with prospects, opening up new opportunities thatmight otherwise have been unavailable. The award has served toreinforce our commitment and dedication to building a trulydistinctive agency.

Paul Hering, managing principal and CEO of the 2006 champion,San Diego-based Barney & Barney, said NUs award confirms forour current clients that theyre with a great agency, and it alsogives us credibility with prospective clients who may not befamiliar with our firm. Its like a hand reaching out and openingdoors for us.

Haake Companies of Overland Park, Kan., said being honored by NUin 2005 was like winning the Heisman Trophy for insuranceagencies.

Again, click here for more details and an entry form.

Fill out the application, put together the supporting material(all of which is kept strictly confidential) and include an essayof 3,000 words or less on “What Makes My Agency An OutstandingSales and Service Organization?” Submit the complete package nolater than July 14.

Good luck!