Issue #4 | November 2023

The U.S. Fire Administration website states: statistically, several causes of office and store fires are the same as those for house fires:

• 29.4% are caused by cooking

• 11.2% are intentionally caused

• 9.3% are caused by electrical malfunction

• 7.8% are either unintentional or careless

• 7.6% are caused by appliances

To reduce the likelihood of fires, we strongly recommend you follow the safety measures below.

We offer Property, General Liability, Business Interruption, Umbrella, and Auto insurance products for a wide array of businesses and we make it easy to quote a policy in just minutes! Take a virtual stroll downtown with MAPFRE as we discuss the variety of coverage offerings vital to the small business owner.

Plus: Small Business Saturday is on November 25 this year. Help support your local businesses (on this day and everyday) by shopping downtown!

Ice dams can wreak havoc on both residences and businesses.

Help your customers mitigate safety issues, tenant displacement, and business interruption caused by ice dams with these tips!

Business Owners Portal (MBOP):

Helpful Tips and Reminders

Our helpful tips and reminders document covers:

• Where to submit, view, manage and bind/issue a quote
• How to save time on Master Condo Policies
• Contact information

Check out the New Business List for details on types of Commercial Lines policies written during the 2nd Quarter of 2023.

Our Commercial Lines team is available to answer new business questions or to provide assistance with submitting new policies. 

From left to right: Michelle Bodell, David Dylengoski and Jennifer Giunta

Meet more members of our Commercial Lines Underwriting team:

• Michelle Bodell, C/L New Business Underwriter Sr.

• David Dylengoski, C/L New Business Underwriter Sr.

• Jennifer Giunta, C/L Renewal Underwriter I

We asked Michelle, David and Jennifer four questions to help you get acquainted with them.

Q1. How long have you been employed in the insurance industry?

Michelle

I had to use a calculator to answer this question! I started in the industry while I was a high school student - so 43 years ago!

David

I have been employed in the insurance industry for the past 12 years.

Jennifer

I have worked in the insurance industry for 23 years. Most of my experience is in Personal Lines Sales and Customer Service for a direct writer. I started working at MAPFRE in 2017 in the Premium Accounting Department, transitioning to Commercial Lines Underwriting in 2021.

Q2. How did you enter the insurance industry?

Michelle

My mother worked as a Claims Representative at Fireman's Fund. I began working there on a part-time basis while still in high school.

David

After graduating from college, I got a job editing reports and videos for a Worker's Compensation fraud investigation business.

Jennifer

I was a Mental Health Counselor/Team Leader for a community mental health center. The hours were long and the pay was terrible. I was stressed and ready for a change. My friend was a claims adjuster for an insurance company and she encouraged me to consider an insurance carrier. I was able to find an entry level position that provided me with an excellent training program and a new career was born!

Q3. What is your favorite part of your position at MAPFRE?

Michelle

I enjoy mentoring my peers, as well as training Independent Agents.

David

The ability to work with a great group of people on a variety of different projects.

Jennifer

I love learning new things, so every day is an opportunity to develop my knowledge and experience. I love that I get to work with an amazing team of underwriter and management staff. I am grateful for the support I receive from everyone in this department. 

Q4. What do you enjoy doing when you are outside of the office?

Michelle

I live on Lake Chaubunagungamaug (a.k.a., Webster Lake). Spending time on the lake is so peaceful!

David

Spending time outdoors and learning to cook new dishes.

Jennifer

When I am not busy transporting my daughter to her many activities, I love to read. You will never find me without my Kindle in hand!