We're proud to announce our multi-year partnership extension with US Sailing the national governing body of the sport of sailing. This is continuation of our 25+ year relationship with US Sailing as their exclusive marine insurance partner, and our endorsement as the Official Yacht Club & Sailing Organization Insurance Agency for US Sailing. Through this important, longstanding partnership, our division Gowrie Group supports US Sailing, sailors, and sailing organizations across the U.S. by providing comprehensive marine insurance programs, risk management solutions, and safety resources. Read more »

This week, two of our auto specialists, Scott Hye and John Delao, will be attending the National Auto Dealers Association’s Annual Convention in Dallas, TX. They are looking forward to the auto industry event of the year and answering all your auto dealership insurance and benefits questions. https://hubs.ly/Q01yXGkX0

In support of our longtime partnership with US Sailing, the national governing body of the sport of sailing, Gowrie Group is proud to make a $50,000 donation to the Siebel Sailors Program. The Thomas & Stacey Siebel Foundation is matching, dollar for dollar, up to $5 million, all gifts made to the Siebel Sailors Program. This generous match from the Siebel Foundation has doubled the impact of Gowrie’s donation. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - September 2021 Read more »

HR Insights: COVID-19 Vaccine Surcharges, Mandates and Incentives: What Employers Should Know Read more »

The 2021 Herreshoff Classic Yacht Regatta & Rendezvous, Golden Jubilee Edition, will take place Friday to Sunday, August 27th-29th. Gowrie Group is proud to be a sponsor of the Friday Feeder Race from Newport to Bristol, along with sponsoring the Living Boat Show that will feature many beautiful classic yachts on display at the Herreshoff Museum on the evening of August 27th. Gowrie's marine insurance experts will be on site to speak to owners about our Classic Yacht Insurance Program. This special event is jointly sponsored with our partners from PURE Insurance. More at: https://herreshoff.org/events/regatta/

Live Well, Work Well - Outdoor Exercise Safety Tips, Healthy Benefits of Gardening, and 3 Ways to Snack Smartly Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - May 2021 Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - Self-care and Your Mental Health, Skin Cancer and You and Fast Food and Heart Health. Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - Alcohol Awareness Month During COVID-19 Pandemic, Moving 11 minutes per day can improve your health and Mental Health Support During the Pandemic. Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - Making Every Bite Count, Prioritize Your Sleep and Properly Cleaning Your Earbuds Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Consolidated Appropriations Act: Employee Benefit Provisions and ACA Reporting Deadlines in 2021. Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - 3 Ways to Boost Your Heart Health, Dealing With Job Burnout During the Pandemic, and Don't Delay Preventive Care. Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - 5 Ways to Start Your Year Off Right, Kick Stress Eating to the Curb, 5 Stress-reducing Foods, and It's National Blood Donor Month Read more »

Gowrie Group, a nationally-focused, leading marine insurance agency that manages the comprehensive health insurance and yacht insurance programs offered to active members of the Virgin Island Professional Charter Association (VIPCA), has been named by VIPCA as the official insurance supplier of the USVI Charter Yacht Show for the fourth year in a row. The 2020 Show, set for November 12-15, at IGY’s Yacht Haven Grande, will offer in-person and virtual elements all with COVID-19 Safety Protocols designed to assure the well-being of attendees and island residents alike. Gowrie Group will feature a Virtual Presentation on November 13 at Noon (Atlantic Standard Time: UTC-04:00) The title is: ‘Understand Your Options: Crew Health Insurance, Yacht Insurance, and Cancel for Any Reason Travel Insurance’. Read more »

Gowrie Group is proud to sponsor the 2020 "Mystic Seaport America and the Sea Award." This year's benefit gala is being streamed live on Friday October 23rd, and special guests from Gowrie and Chubb will join virtually together at our "Digital Table" to celebrate The Museum and the honoree. This year's honoree is our long time friend, Tom Whidden, one of the most applauded sailors of all time, member of both the America’s Cup Hall of Fame and the National Sailing Hall of Fame, and President and CEO of North Technology Group, parent company of North Sails. We look forward to wishing Tom Whidden a well deserved congratulations!

Live Well, Work Well - Combating Pandemic Fatigue, Benefits of Buying Seasonal Produce, and How to Stay Physically Active Read more »

The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season is off to a record start with a surge of early storms and is predicted to continue to be a very destructive and powerful season. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center updated their Hurricane Outlook in August of this year, with both a change in the likelihood of an above-normal season (85% probability), and an increase from a previous 19 to now up to 25 Named Storms. NOAA expects we will continue to see more, stronger, and longer lasting storms as we brace for the rest of the Atlantic Hurricane Season (which runs until November 30, 2020). We invite you to visit Gowrie Group’s Severe Storm Center to access resources that will help you plan, prepare, respond, and recover from hurricanes, flooding, and severe wind storms at www.gowrie.com/hurricane. Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - Choosing an Effective Hand Sanitizer, Low-stress Diet Tips, and How to Make Better Decisions When Feeling Anxious Read more »

Supreme Court to Hear Arguments in Lawsuit Challenging ACA's Constitutionality This Fall and Employers Have Flexibility with Contraceptive Coverage Plan Designs Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - Sorting Out Coronavirus Fact From Fiction, Summer Sun Safety Tips and Probiotics and You. Read more »

When you have a claim, Gowrie Group is here to help. Gowrie’s claim experts work as your advocate and help you manage and expedite the claim process. This guide will help ensure your claim experience goes as smoothly as possible. Read more »

Storm Prep Alert - Hurricane Isaias. The 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season continues to be very active. Hurricane Isaias is on track to make landfall in Florida this weekend. If you are in the storm's track or path, now is the time to get ready. Visit the Gowrie Group Storm Center for more preparation resources at www.gowrie.com/hurricane and read our latest Storm Prep Article on Isaias. Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - Boost Your Mental Well-being During These Uncertain Times, Survive the Summer Heat and Socially Distance Yourself This Summer Read more »

Occupational Safety and Health Administration(OSHA) has released guidance for employers on social distancing in the workplace. Read more »

As states continue to reopen their economies post the COVID-19 pandemic, MRAA and NMMA are working together to help marine businesses nationwide identify and assess the retail status in each state. They have launched a dynamic website which is intended to serve as a snapshot to help businesses navigate this rapidly-changing environment. They advise that businesses also consult with regulators within the appropriate jurisdiction and their own stakeholders including legal counsel before making a determination on how to best proceed. You can access the website here

Benefits Newsletter - Updated Model COBRA Notices Available, and COVID-19 Relief for Benefit Plan Deadlines. Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - Why Cleaning Your Home Can Boost Overall Well-being, and Grilling Safety Tips and How to Reduce Your Food Waste. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - IRS Allows HDHPs to Cover COVID-19 Costs and COVID-19 Relief Laws Require Paid Employee Leave Read more »

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has interrupted many businesses across the country. While it’s unclear how long COVID-19 will continue to affect organizations, many employers are looking to the future of employees returning to work. In preparation for reopening your business and asking employees to come back to work, it’s imperative that your company thoughtfully constructs a return to work action plan for its employees to keep everyone healthy and safe following the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - Celebrate World No Tobacco Day by Learning About Smoking Cessation, Sugar Substitutes and You, and Combatting the Loneliness Epidemic at Work. Read more »

OHSA regulations require businesses to have Written Plans for all perceived emergencies. The impacts of COVID-19 have shown that a “Pandemic Plan” needs to be on that list of required written plans. A Pandemic Plan will not only help you plan ahead and prepare for your response, but also make sure that your business is ready to face the rapid decision making regarding when facing an emergency. Read more »

Rhode Island has issued Phase 1 Operational Guidance for Marinas, Boatyards and Yacht Clubs which will take effect on Friday May 1, 2020. The guidance focuses on 3 key areas of operation: general operations, employees and patrons. Signage is required with regards to safe boating and operations. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - U.S. Supreme Court Will Hear Challenge to ACA and No Statute of Limitations Applies for ACA Pay or Play Penalties Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - Laughter May Be a Key in Fighting Workplace Stress, Are You Getting Enough Calcium? and Healthy Snacks to Satisfy Your Workday Hunger. Read more »

COVID-19 Advisory Update Message to Gowrie Group’s Clients & Partners. This 3/20/20 advisory communication is part of Gowrie’s ongoing commitment to proactively provide you with the most critical COVID-19 information you need, combined with providing you relevant direct links so that you have self-service access to the most up-to-date information and advisory messages at all times. Read more »

COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving public health crisis that presents both health and business risks on an unprecedented global scale. We are providing this FAQ document to help address some of the most common questions we are hearing from our clients. Topics addressed in this advisory message include Workers Comp, OSHA, Claim Chains, Business Interruption Insurance, and guidelines for those operating "Essential Businesses." This FAQ is not a substitute for consulting with your Gowrie Group account manager directly, and/or the insurance company which underwrites your policy(s). Note, only the insurance company can determine if there is coverage afforded under your specific policy(s). Read more »

This COVID-19 advisory message focuses on Management Liability Insurance, specifically as it pertains to D&O, EPLI, and Cyber Insurance issues related to COVID-19 impacts. Read more »

We are facing a truly unprecedented situation. The global Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic is affecting everything - our home life, our businesses and our communities. Our hearts go out to anyone who’s been impacted by the virus, either directly or indirectly. Especially to those who are sick we extend our wishes for a fast and full recovery. Gowrie Group, and our parent company Risk Strategies, are striving to balance the safety and health of our colleagues, clients, distribution partners, supply chain and other stakeholders, while preserving business continuity and the quality of technical expertise, advice, and client service that defines our company. This communication details our current actions to navigate this unprecedented situation. Read more »

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak is a rapidly evolving situation that presents both health and business risks on a global level. Your VFIS/Gowrie Team, and our parent company Risk Strategies, are continuously monitoring developments worldwide, nationally, and at the state and local levels. Our teams of risk advisors are working diligently in order to help you assess contingency plans, understand coverages, and keep your workforce safe as the situation unfolds. To better understand the coverages, and how to report potential claims, please reach out to your VFIS/Gowrie representative directly. You can reach the VFIS/Gowrie team at 888.834.7763 or vfis@gowrie.com. Read more »

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak is a rapidly evolving situation that presents both health and business risks on a global level. Gowrie Group, and our parent company Risk Strategies, are continuously monitoring developments worldwide, nationally, and at the state and local levels. Our teams of risk advisors are working diligently in order to help you assess contingency plans, understand coverages, and keep your workforce safe as the situation unfolds. Read more »

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak is a dynamic, rapidly evolving situation that presents enormous challenges to both health and business risks on a global scale. Gowrie Group, and our parent company Risk Strategies, are continuously monitoring developments worldwide, nationally, and at the state and local levels. Our teams of risk advisors are working diligently in order to help you assess contingency plans, understand coverages, and keep your employees, members, and guests safe as the situation unfolds. Read more »

The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak is a rapidly evolving situation that presents both health and business risks on a global level. Risk Strategies (Gowrie Group’s parent company) is monitoring developments worldwide and our team of risk advisors is working diligently to continue to help you prepare contingency plans, understand coverage, and keep your workforce safe as the situation unfolds. Read more »

Live Well Work Well - Eating Healthy Doesn't have to be expensive, 5 Sleep Habits You Need to Adopt and Experts are warning of another bad flu season. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Cadillac Tax and Other Key ACA Taxes Repealed and PCORI Fees Extended for 10 Years Read more »

Live Well Work Well - February is American Heart Month, A Cold is Contagious for Longer Than You'd Think and Ergonomics Is the Way to a Pain-Free Workday Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - Don't Fall Into This New Year's Resolution Trap, It's National Blood Donor Month and This Superfood May Help Prevent Diabetes. Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - It's That Time of the Year Again: Flu Season Is Here, An Apple a Day May Help Keep the Doctor Away and This Popular Beverage Is Linked to Earlier Death Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Deadline Approaching: Medicare Part D Notices Are Due Before October 15th and Employers are Expected to Spend More on Health Care and Wellness in the Next Year Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and The Dangers of Vaping Read more »

Employer HR Brief - Acting DOL Secretary May Bring Change of Pace and Financial Industry Experienced 3,500 Cyber Attacks in 2019 So Far Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Open Enrollment: What's Changing in 2020? and Hospitals to Publish Retail Prices Under a New Proposed Rule Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - Getting Outside May Be the Key to Boosting Your Physical and Psychological Well-being, Making Smart Food Choices at a Restaurant and An Increasing Number of Americans Are Making the Switch to Veganism. Read more »

Employer HR Brief - Why You Should Be Encouraging Employees to Use PTO and EEO Deadlines Approaching, Here's Where You Can Find Help Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Executive Order On Health Costs To Affect Employer Health Plans and Final Rule Expands Options for HRAs Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - 1 in 5 Deaths Worldwide Associated With Poor Diets, Your Heart Rate: Indicator for Health and Fitness and Introducing Foods Early May Help Prevent Allergies Read more »

Employer HR Brief - HSA and HDHP 2020 Limits released and Making Emotional Intelligence Work for You. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - IRS Releases Inflation-adjusted Limits for HSAs and HDHPs for 2020 and EEOC Delays Amending Wellness Program Regulations to End of 2019 Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - Going Camping? Here's the Rundown of What You Need to Know, Sunscreen and You and Wearable Tech and Your Health in 2019 Read more »

Employer HR Brief - DOL Enforcement Actions Are up and Expected to Stay That Way and Lowest Unemployment in Decades Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Final Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2020 and DOL Issues Opinion Letter on Gig Worker Classification Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - Fuel Your Workout the Right Way, Summer Picnic Safety Tips and Superbug Fungus Poses Serious Global Health Threat Read more »

Employer HR Brief - May 2019 Vote on Health Care Won't Come Until After 2020 Elections and DOL's Newly Proposed Overtime Rule: What's Included Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - DOJ Supports Federal Court Ruling Invalidating the ACA and Parts of AHP Final Rule Are Struck Down by Federal Court Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - 5 Things You Can Do to Improve Your Daily Mental Health, Eye Health 101 and The Unexpected Ingredient in Your Oats Read more »

Employer HR Brief - When it Comes to Employee Engagement, Communication is Key and The EEOC is Changing Things up by Moving Online Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Deadline Extended for EEO-1 Filing from March to May 31, 2019 and BLS Data on Worker Access to Family Leave in 2018 Now Available Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - Don't Let Tax Filing Season Get the Best of You, Air Pollution Affects More than Your Overall Health, and 3 Reasons Why Your Stomach Always Hurts Read more »

Employer HR Brief - Workplace Wellness Is About More Than Just Physical Health and Retaliation Claims Are Up, Are You Prepared? Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Proposed Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2020 and DOL Increases Civil Penalty Amounts for 2019 Read more »

Employer HR Brief - February 2019 Retaining Talent: Are Your Leaders the Problem? and Calculating OT? Double-check Your Math Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - It's That Time of the Year Again for ACA Reporting and Wellness Plan Incentive Limits Removed By EEOC Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - 2 Chronic Conditions That Can Cause Cancer and A Common Cold Can Be Contagious for Longer Than You Think Read more »

Employer HR Brief - 2019 Plan Limits and Gen Z is coming: Are You Prepared? Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - IRS is Beginning 2016 Pay or Play Enforcement: Here's What You Need to Know and FSA Limit to Increase for 2019 Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - 2018 ACA Reporting Draft Forms Now Available, and Two HSA Bills Passed by the House. Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - HBP Guidelines Have Changed: Do You Know Your Risk?, Foodborne Illness is on the Rise: Protect Yourself, and Fruits and Veggies: How Much is Enough? Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Association Health Plans Expansion, Critical HIPAA Compliance Gaps Exposed by HHS and Amazon announced it will be purchasing the online pharmacy PillPack. Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - Sunrays Aren't the Only Thing You Can Catch at the Pool, Trouble Sleeping? Your Phone May Be to Blame, and Are You Up to Date on Your Immunizations? Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - ACA Affordability Percentages Will Increase for 2019 and the IRS Announces HSA Limits for 2019 Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - WHO Calls for a Ban on Artificially Produced Trans Fat, Sweating More Doesn't Necessarily Mean You Burn More Calories and Snack Smart, Save Money, Time and Calories Read more »

Warm Weather is in the Forecast, Remind Employees About Your Dress Code and the HSA limit changed again! Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - IRS Announces Second Change to HSA Family Contribution Limit, and DOL Releases New Resources for Mental Health Parity Compliance Read more »

Live Well, Work Well: Strawberries named dirtiest produce for 3rd year in a row by EWG, Over 200 rare antibiotic-resistant genes found in 27 states, and Intermittent Fasting: What it is and why people are doing it. Read more »

Employer HR Brief - May 2018 Worried about DOL Audits? Get Paid and Education Benefits: A trending way to retain talent. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Did You Miss the April 2 ACA Reporting Deadline? Here's What's Next and IRS Updates Employer Guide for 2018 Tax Changes to Fringe Benefits Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - Despite CDC Recommendation, Many Adults Still Refusing Shingles Vaccine, Researchers Link New Danger to E-cigarettes, and May is Food Allergy Action Month Read more »

IRS Announces Revision on HSA Limit for Family Coverage for 2018 Read more »

Employer HR Brief - Compensable Time: What You Need to Know, FBI Warns of Direct Deposit Phishing Attacks Read more »

Benefits Newsletter: How to Handle an ACA Penalty Letter and The Importance of Plan Document Review Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - 5 Healthy Snacks to Satisfy Your Workday Hunger, Signs of a Kidney Stone, and Don't be a Distracted Driver Read more »

New HHS Secretary is Focused on Opioid Crisis, You Should Be Too and 4 Things You Can Do to Manage Worst Flu in Decades Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Spending Resolution Affects ACA Taxes, and New Rules for Disability Claims Take Effect Soon Read more »

IRS Reduces HSA Limits for Family Coverage for 2018. Read more »

Live well, Work well: Eating Healthy Doesn't Have to Be Expensive, This Deadly Flu Season is the Worst in Nearly a Decade, and Sleep and your health. Read more »

Live well, Work well: 2 Chronic Conditions that can cause cancer, Avocados: A Legitimately Healthy Food Craze and A common cold can be contagious for longer than you think. Read more »

Employer HR Brief - Online Portal for Employment Discrimination Claims and Senate Tax Bill Repercussions Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - DOL Delays New Rules for Disability Benefit Claims and ACA Reporting Read more »

Live well, Work well: January is Thyroid Awareness Month, Winter Sports Safety Tips, and 3 Steps to an Injury-free Workout Read more »

As of November 1st 2017, Vincent M. Falcigno, along with his team and clients of TFG Insurance Specialties (formerly The Falcigno Group), have joined forces with Gowrie Group, a leading independent insurance agency headquartered in Westbrook, Connecticut. This is an exciting combination of our people and our complementary strengths. Together we can provide a broader array of insurance services and markets, enhanced risk management strategies, and other valuable services. Read more »

Gowrie Group, New England's most prominent, independent insurance agency, is proud to announce that the company has once again been ranked in the Top-100 Independent Property/Casualty Insurance Agencies nationwide by Insurance Journal, and has been named a 2017 Top Connecticut Workplace by the Hartford Courant. Read more »

Live well, Work well: Fight the flu with these simple tips, Starting planning today for a stress-free holiday season, and 6 tips for diabetes prevention Read more »

The latest edition of US Sailing's "This Is What We Do" video series features Carter Gowrie, CEO of Gowrie Group and the architect of the Burgee Insurance Program, discussing the importance of preparing, protecting, and insuring your sailing organization. Watch Video Now

Live Well, Work Well: Halloween Safety Tips and Hidden dangers at your child's bedtime Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Senate rejects ACA repeal efforts, and Updated Form I-9 required beginning Sept. 18 Read more »

Live well, Work well: Do you know the signs of Opioid Addiction? Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - HIPAA Cyber Attack Response Checklist and New Fiduciary Rules Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - Prevent Heat Illness, Hepatitis C Rates Triple and Broccoli Strawberry Orzo Salad. Read more »

In the event you have employees in New York or if there is a possibility you will in the future, Gowrie Group would like to share with you information on the New York Paid Family Leave legislation which will go into effect as of January 1, 2018. Read more »

Employer HR Brief - House passes changes to Overtime rules Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - What Happens if the ACA Employer Mandate is Repealed? Read more »

Live Well, Work Well: Simple Summer Activities Your Kids are Sure to Love, Do You Know Seizure First Aid?, Grilling Safety Reminders for Your Summer BBQ and Turkey Burger recipe. Read more »

Employer HR Brief - Only One-third of Employees are Engaged at Work and Prevent a PR Crisis from Turning into a PR Disaster Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - American Health Care Act (AHCA) passes House and Pre-existing Conditions under the ACA Read more »

Live Well, Work Well: Tick and Tick-borne Disease Season is Here, Shop for seasonal produce this summer., and National Fireworks Safety Month: June 1 to July 4. Read more »

Employer HR Brief - Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) plans to maintain its Bipartisan Enforcement Plan, Trump's Secretary of Labor Nominee Questioned on Overtime Rule Read more »

Live well, Work well: Spring Allergy Alleviation, A Breath of Fresh Air, and Age well in the Workplace Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - ACA Replacement Bill Withdrawn, Now what? and Cost-saving Strategy: Generic Drugs Read more »

Employer HR Brief - Retirement Uncertainty and Where to Turn, and Saving with Health Care Literacy Read more »

Employee Live Well, Work Well - Monitor your rice intake to minimize arsenic consumption, Phlegm: A key player in fighting off illness, and recipe Basic Quiche. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter: House Republicans release legislation to repeal and replace the ACA, American Health Care Act: What won't change. Read more »

Employer Benefits Bulletin - ACA Replacement Bill Announced, Health Care Literacy Pays off, and IRS Change Affecting Individual Mandate Read more »

Employer HR Brief - Company Culture might be more important than you think and DOL Overtime Rule: Update. Read more »

Live Well, Work Well: Workplace Stress Levels Dropping, Prepare for Tax Season, and Spring Break Travel Tips Read more »

Benefits Newsletter: ACA and Employer Health Plans under President Trump, and Block Grants: What you need to know. Read more »

Employer HR Brief - Stay Protected from Phone Tax Scams and Employee Leave-sharing and Donation Programs. Read more »

Live Well, Work Well: Protect your child from E-cigarettes, February is American Heart Month, 3 Tips for Hosting a safe big game party and Recipe of the month "Chicken Vegetable Soup with Kale". Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - New stand-alone HRA option available for eligible small employers, and 2018 Final Notice of benefit and payment parameters released Read more »

The New Year and How it May Affect Your Benefits, New Year's Resolutions: Lifestyle Changes vs. Quick Changes, and January is National Blood Donor Month. Read more »

Employee Benefits Bulletin - Department of Labor overtime rule update, 2016 Kaiser Health Benefits Summary, The Presidential Election's Impact on Health Care, and 2017 Health Care Compliance Highlights. Read more »

Gowrie Group, New England's most prominent specialty insurance agency, is proud to announce that the company has once again been ranked in the Top-50 independent insurance agencies nationwide by Insurance Journal. Based on this ranking, Gowrie Group is also the largest independent agency in Connecticut. The list is published by Insurance Journal, which compiles a yearly list of the top 100 Independent Property/Casualty Insurance Agencies nationwide. Read more »

Gowrie Group was proud to be a Silver Sponsor of Mystic Seaport’s America & Sea Award gala that honored Bob & Rod Johnstone and J/Boats. The award recognizes individuals or organizations whose contribution to the history, arts, business, or sciences of the sea best exemplify the American character. Over the past 39 years, the Johnstone family and their company have influenced American yachting and sport of sailing in incomparable ways. For the Johnstone’s, it all started with RAGTIME, the first J/24.

Each year, more than 4,500 workers are killed on the job and approximately 3 million are injured. The following 10 Workplace Safety & Health Violations, which are the most frequent citations reported by OSHA during workplace inspections, account for the majority of those deaths and injuries. Nearly all of these deaths and injuries could be prevented through the implementation of proactive safety training and safe workplace policies. Read more »

Gowrie Group, New England’s premier insurance agency, is proud to be the presenting sponsor of the upcoming New England Museum Association’s Annual Conference. The conference is being held in Mystic Connecticut on November 9-11, 2016. The Welcome Opening Reception, presented by Gowrie Group, will be hosted at the Mystic Seaport. Kellie Crete, Gowrie Group’s Safety & Loss Prevention Manager, will be leading an interactive seminar at the conference called, “A Night at the Museum: How to Identify and Mitigate Museum Risk.” Read more »

Employer HR Brief - Overtime and the FMLA Leave Entitlement and IRS ACA Penalty Assessments are Forthcoming. Read more »

Live well, Work well - October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Prevent backpack-related injuries, and Halloween safety tips. Read more »

Gowrie Group was proud to be a Gold Sponsor of the Massachusetts EMS Conference held Oct 6-7th. There were over 160 attendees and 40 exhibitors at the conference. It was a great opportunity to connect with our customers and build new relationships throughout the New England area.

Benefits Newsletter - Get Ready for ACA Reporting Deadlines and Marketplaces to offer "simple choice plans" for 2017 Read more »

Gowrie Group, New England's most prominent specialty insurance agency, is proud to announce that the company has been voted a Top Connecticut Workplace for the 6th year in a row by its employees. From among nearly 1,000 companies that applied, Gowrie Group is among a select group of only 61 companies that were selected to be named as a "2016 CT Top Workplace." Of further distinction, Gowrie Group is one of only 7 companies that have achieved this designation six years in a row. Read more »

The Gowrie Group team delivered 600 pounds of apples at the Newport International Boatshow, to marine industry clients and partners. The show was held September 15-18th in Newport, RI. The fresh, crisp apples came from our partners at Bishops Orchard, of Guilford, CT. Gowrie Group boat-show team: Dawn Speros, Sarah Davidson, Carter Gowrie, Nancy Sprigg, Kiley Prime, Steve Prime, Dan Cooney, Kellie Crete, Whitney Peterson, Mark Gargula, John Pugliese, Nancy Young, John Owsianik Jr, Barbara Cooper, Steve Schram, Scott Shiland, and more. Read more »

Gowrie Group was proud to be a Presenting Sponsor of the 2016 A-List Awards by Moffly Media - the premiere home design competition. Congratulations to all the winners! Team Gowrie at the awards ceremony included: Dennis Schmelzer, Scott Shiland, and Steve Schram. https://youtu.be/wvKIHSEpwvs

Live Well, Work Well - Green Tea - more than just a drink?, Taking responsibility for your retirement fund,and Pokémon Go: Advice for parents Read more »

Gowrie Group is excited to announce that we acquired a leading Mid-Atlantic based marine insurance specialist – Hartge Insurance Associates – on September 1. In conjunction with this new agency combination, Gowrie Group also is pleased to announce that insurance industry veteran and Annapolis resident Suzanne Redden, will be joining the Gowrie team to be the Branch Manager of the new Gowrie Group Mid-Atlantic operation and Annapolis area office. Redden has enjoyed a distinguished career in marine underwriting and business development for carriers and agencies. The joining together of Hartge Insurance, Totch Hartge, and Suzanne Redden with Gowrie Group enables Gowrie to expand its geographic presence and bring its insurance and risk management expertise to the strong, established marine communities found in the Mid-Atlantic and beyond. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Significant changes proposed to Form 5500, and DOL's New Fiduciary Rule Impacts HSAs Read more »

Employer HR Brief - August 2016 Employee Leave: Clarifying STD, FMLA, and ADA and The FMLA and Absence Notification: Is Your Policy Being Followed? Read more »

VFIS is introducing its latest Emergency Vehicle Driver Training instructor update, the 2016 edition, by webinar. The webinar is free of charge to Gowrie/VFIS clients and non-clients. The webinar is approximately 2 hours of interactive program delivery. Five webinars slots are offered between Sept 8-14th at various times. To learn more and enroll: Read more »

Live well, Work well: Zika: Why men should be concerned too, Exercising the body and brain, and avoiding sports-related eye injuries in children. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - U.K. Votes to Leave the European Union and New Task Force to Focus on Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders. Read more »

Employer HR Brief - The Final White Collar Exemption Rule is Here, EEOC Issues Welcome Guidance on Leave as a Reasonable Accommodation. Read more »

Many people, even experienced marine industry employees, have never heard of Electric Shock Drowning. And even those that have heard of ESD typically don’t realize how many common situations can put people at risk. Learn more from Gowrie Group’s Risk Report on understanding Electric Shock Drowning.

Employee Brochure "live well, work well": SPF claims fall short for many sunscreens, FDA moves to regulate the sale of e-cigarettes, Food labels get a makeover and recipe for California Avocado Summer Wraps Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - DOL issues new overtime payment rules, EEOC Finalizes wellness rules under ADA and GINA and Guidance for employers on bathroom access rights for transgender employees. Read more »

Health Care Reform: PCORI Fees due August 1, 2016 Read more »

Employee Benefits Bulletin - DOL issues new overtime payment rules, EEOC finalizes Wellness Rules under ADA and GINA, HHS Launches Phase 2 of HIPAA audit program, and ACA's affordability contribution percentage increased for 2017 Read more »

Gowrie Group recently made a $1500 donation to New England Science & Sailing Foundation (NESS) specifically for the purpose of purchasing more than a dozen VHF handheld radios. VHF radios are a vital safety and communication resource for NESS staff members throughout the year. Read more »

Employer HR Brief - Knowing the difference between exempt and nonexempt; compensation is a rising factor in job satisfaction, and the Department of Labor (DOL) has issued the Employer's Guide to The Family and Medical Leave Act. Read more »

Gowrie Group is pleased to announce our joint partnership with Herreshoff Marine Museum (HMM) and PURE Insurance. Gowrie Group and PURE will be supporting Herreshoff’s mission of educating and inspiring the public through presentations of the history and innovative work of the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company and the America's Cup competition. As a 2016 Silver Level sponsor of the Hereshoff Marine Museum, Gowrie Group will support several of HMM’s key events such as the Classic Yacht Symposium and the Herreshoff Classic Regatta. Read more »

Employee brochure "live well, work well": How to turn a bad day around, Detergent packet poisoning and potential Zika spread mapped by NASA. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - ACA's Affordability contribution percentage increases for 2017, Updated HIPAA self-audit tools, and this spring Exchanges will begin notifying employers that they may be subject to ACA penalties if any of their employees are deemed eligible for health insurance subsidies through an Exchange. Read more »

Gowrie Group is pleased to announce that Steve Schram has recently joined the firm as a Senior Vice President and leader of the agency's Family Risk Management practice area. Schram will be responsible for bringing Gowrie's insurance solutions and risk management services to individuals, families, and organizations throughout New England and beyond. Steve has severed on more than 20 corporate boards from a diverse universe of companies and nonprofits, including serving on the board of the National Fish & Wildlife Foundation and the advisory board of Boston Private Bank. He is a trustee and former Commodore of Shelter Island Yacht Club. Steve graduated from University of Wyoming and has an MBA and MAAP from Duke University. Schram will operate out of Gowrie's office in Darien. He can be reached at steves@gowrie.com. Read more »

Raising the roof and raising funds: Gowrie Group is a Silver Sponsor of Raise the Roof’s Habitat Humanity Build on the Guilford Green. Gowrie Group is proud to announce their support and involvement with Raise the Roof’s 2016 Build Project to benefit Habitat for Humanity of New Haven. Gowrie Group has supported both the New Haven and Hartford chapters of Habitat for Humanity for many years, through various donations, including a long time involvement in golf tournament fundraiser Sticks for Bricks. To compliment Gowrie Group’s financial support, fifteen Gowrie Group employees assembled on the Guilford Green on Saturday, May 21 for hands-on construction work. Read more »

Employer HR Brief - Tips for Implementing Progressive Discipline and Continue to Use Current Form I-9 Read more »

The National Sailing Hall of Fame (NSHOF) and Gowrie Group are excited to announce the continuation of their partnership to collect, preserve, and present maritime stories – this year with a focus on stories related to the Adams Cup. This partnership is a continuation of Gowrie Group’s ongoing support of the NSHOF. In 2015, Gowrie Group was the lead sponsor of the NSHOF’s initiative to collect and preserve Yacht Club stories. Read more »

Live well, Work well - Healthy Lifestyles and May is National Stroke Awareness Month Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Supreme Court hears contraceptive coverage case, Phase 2 of HIPAA Audit program and a tweak to the tax code could allow employers to pay back employees' student debt. Read more »

Employer HR Brief - EEOC proposes revised guidance on retaliation, and IRS: Payroll and HR Targets of new phishing scheme. Read more »

Live well, Work well: Coffee may combat alcohol's effect on the liver, Loneliness considered a public health problem, and avoiding spring allergies. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Affordable Care Act litigation may affect employers and ACA rule changes for 2017 Read more »

Meet The Burgee Insurance Program, the most comprehensive insurance program available to sailing clubs, community programs, and sailing organizations. The program is endorsed by US Sailing, underwritten by Chubb, and managed by the marine insurance experts at Gowrie Group. Gowrie Group is proud to say that we insure more than 1,000 sailing organizations nationwide, including more than 100 community sailing programs. One of the best things about the Burgee Insurance Program is the special coverage that is built into the program to protect sailing organizations when they are doing what sailing organizations always do - run regattas, host social events, teach sailing, sponsor rendezvous, and borrow boats. The program also has the right coverage in place for your historic clubhouse, treasured trophies, docks & floats, club owned boats, flag officers, members, volunteers, employees, and more. Read more »

Employer HR Brief - Department of Labor Standards for Joint Employment and Political Discussions in the Workplace Read more »

Employee Brochure "live well, work well": Lead Water Poisoning, Zika: What you should know, and 3 diets to help you follow the new dietary guidelines. Read more »

Our insurance carrier partners and our clients continue to see a dramatic increase in attempted – and successful – Social Engineering Fraud attacks. We advise you to take the time to understand what these attacks look like, train your employees, evaluate your internal controls, and contact us to discuss strategies to improve your crime and cyber coverage. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Recent court rulings raise questions about FMLA and IRS clarifies ACA rules for employer-provided coverage Read more »

Gowrie Group proudly supports the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center with an annual sponsorship for 2016. The generous sponsorship from Gowrie Group enables the Kate to continue to develop unique and diverse productions, as it enters into its seventh year of operations. Brett Elliott, the Executive Director of the Kate shared, “We are thrilled to partner with Gowrie Group this year to produce wonderful entertainment with creativity and wit, just like our namesake. Carter Gowrie has been instrumental in numerous initiatives here at the Kate, since his time joining the Board of Trustees. It is with great pleasure that we welcome Carter and the Gowrie Group into the family here at the Kate.” Read more »

Employer HR Brief - February 2016: Form I-9 Self-audit Guidance and educate employees on 401(k) loans Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - The Importance of Good Posture, FDA aims to ban minors from tanning beds, and preventing foodborne illnesses. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - ACA reporting deadlines delayed and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) proposes increased out-of-pocket maximums Read more »

Employer Benefits Bulletin - New spending bill delays Cadillac Tax, Final ACA market reform rules released, IRS releases tax guidance on same-sex marriage issues,and ACA automatic enrollment requirement repealed. Read more »

Our partners at VFIS have published a free cyber self-assessment check list for organizations and companies. 1. Take stock. Know what personal information you have in your files and on your computers. 2. Scale down. Keep only what you need for your business. 3. Lock it. Protect the information that you keep. 4. Pitch it. Properly dispose of what you no longer need. 5. Plan ahead. Create a plan to respond to security. Download the PDF for the full list. Read more »

Employer HR Brief - ACA Reporting Requirements - A Basic Overview, and End-of-year Employee Communications. Read more »

Employee Brochure "live well, work well": In defense of coffee, sugar substitutes, and New Year's Resolutions Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - ACA repeal passes Senate, Veto Expected and Government investigating rising drug costs Read more »

In December, Gowrie Group’s 150 employees worked together to collect $750 from each other to give to the partner/owners of Gowrie Group as a holiday gift. The gift was presented to the seven partners, Carter Gowrie, Ed Gumbrecht, Skip Young, Chris Pesce, Brad Preston, John Fisher, and Chris Brodeur, as a $750 donation, on their behalf, to the Veteran Angler Charters of West Haven, CT. The partners were so inspired by their employees’ outreach and generosity that they offered to double the donation, bringing the donated amount to a sizable $1,500 contribution. Read more »

ACA Reporting Deadlines Delayed - On December 28, 2015, the IRS issues Notice 2016-4 which extends the deadlines for 2015 ACA reporting under Sections 6055 and 6056. Read more »

On November 15th, Gowrie Group launched its 12th annual Gowrie Challenge with a matching gift of $25,000 to The Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries. Our partner sponsors –The Safety Zone, LC Doane Company, Tower Labs, Lenny & Joe’s Fish Tale, and the Tariq Farid Foundation - are providing an additional $22,500 in matching funds. Meeting this year's goal of raising $125,000 will put the lifetime total amount raised by the Gowrie Group Shoreline Soup Kitchen Challenge over the Million Dollar mark. We are challenging local businesses and individuals to join together to help us reach our goal. The number of people in need in our communities continues to rise; the SSKP has seen a 14% increase in the amount of food distributed at their five local pantries already this year. Now is the time to help. The Gowrie Challenge runs from November 15th to December 31st. Read more »

Live well, Work well: Remember to get a flu shot, Simple tips to reduce food waste, Pack a work lunch to stay healthy and save money and vegetable chili. Read more »

Gowrie Group is proud to be the presenting sponsor of the 2015 New England Museum Association annual conference. We look forward to spending 3 days in Portland, Maine with vibrant, engaged museum professionals, as we all come together to learn, grow, connect, and expand our vision of museum excellence. Gowrie's museum and non-profit experts, Dan Cooney, Rick Bagnall, and Chris Brodeur will present an interactive seminar on November 4, 2015, called "Insurance to Protect Directors, Volunteers, Employees and Yourself!" Seminar Overview: What you don’t know can hurt you. This session will explore why executive protection including D&O insurance and Employment Practices Liability is so important and why Executive Directors and board members must take a pro-active role on insurance matters. You will walk away from this session with specific questions to ask your agent, risk management best practices, and smart advice related to D&O and EPLI, Social Engineering Cyber Funds Fraud, Liquor Liability, ACA, and Volunteer Protection. www.gowrie.com/museums Read more »

Employer HR Brief - Be Informed on Transgender Accommodation, Uber Case Highlights Employee Classification Enforcement, and Did you know giving employees the option to telecommute and work flexible hours may garner loyalty from your current employees and help attract and retain new ones. Read more »

Live well, Work well: Monitor physical activity with a fitness tracker, Sleep and your health, and Health benefits of Oatmeal. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Guidelines finalized for electronic reporting under sections 6055 and 6056,IRS clarifies section 6055 reporting for HRAs and some workplaces are considering offering repayment assistance for student loan debt. Read more »

Employer HR Brief - Department of Labor (DOL) clarifies worker classification and educate employees on cyber security. Read more »

Live Well, Work well - September is fruit and veggie month, Blood pressure readings demystified, understanding food expiration dates and storing food in the refrigerator. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Final Rule on Religious Exemptions to Contraceptive Coverage, PCORI Fee FAQs and did you know the IRS released the 2015 draft instructions for reporting under Code Sections 6055 and 6056. Read more »

Once again, Gowrie Group is named as one of the Top-50 independent property/casualty insurance agencies nationwide by Insurance Journal, in their annual Top-100 Independent Property/Casualty Agencies report. The Top-100 list is ranked by total property/casualty agency revenue for 2014. Read more »

Employer HR Brief - U.S. Supreme Court Legalizes Same-sex Marriage and DOL Issues Proposed Rule to Expand Overtime Protections Read more »

Hurricanes have the potential to cause significant disruption in the operations of facilities. In order to minimize the potential for a public impact and to provide continuity of operations, consider the following actions before and after a hurricane impacts your facilities. Each facility/town should have a site specific Emergency Response Plan. Read more »

Barbara Cooper speaks to C5 Crossroads for Kids: C5 New England is a community program run by Crossroads for Kids, a prominent youth development organization that has served Massachusetts since 1936. C5 New England inspires high-potential youth from risk-filled environments to pursue personal success, to prepare them for college, work and life, and to motivate them to become role models for others in their communities. Barbara Cooper and 2 Chubb professionals met at Brook & Whittle’s Guilford office on 8/11 to speak with a group of eight C5 kids and 2 facilitators from the program including Allyson Gunn, the Director of Strategic Partnerships. Chubb sent two individuals who participate in their Diversity Council in the Simsbury office - Shana Stodolski a Specialty Lines Underwriter and Michelle Aroko from the Specialty Claims Service Center. They spoke to the kids about insurance as a business, how to get into insurance, and about education and how important it is to stick with it no matter what. Each speaker shared a story about the unexpected turns life takes and the important of being adaptable and open to change. Barbara shared her thoughts on personal brand and conducting yourself with integrity and excellence no matter what the job or task is. http://www.crossroads4kids.org/index.cfm/page/C5-Teen-Leadership-Program/pid/10272

Benefits Newsletter - U.S Supreme Court Upholds ACA Subsidies in Federal Exchanges, Final Rule Updates the SBC Requirement, the IRS releases 2015 draft versions of the forms that employers will use to report under Internal Revenue Code Sections 6055 and 6056. Read more »

Employer HR Brief - Supreme Court Rules on Abercrombie Religious Discrimination Case, Department of Labor sends proposed Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) Regulations to OMB, Department of Labor has posted new model FMLA medical certifications and notices with an expiration date of May 31, 2018. Read more »

Health Care Reform: PCORI Fees due July 31, 2015 Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - The Effect of E-cigarettes on Health, Shop the Farmers Market, Outdoor summer activities, Pesticides and Produce, and a delicious recipe for Ratatouille. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Family plans must embed out-of-pocket limits in 2016, IRS issues new Q&As on section 6056 reporting, the ACAs excise tax (or the "Cadillac tax") is set to take effect in 2018. Read more »

Employer Benefits Bulletin - Quarter 3 Abercrombie discrimination case, King v. Burwell on ACA subsidies, Embedded out-of-pocket maximum for family coverage, PTO trends revealed in recent survey Read more »

Employer HR Brief - June 2015: Making the Case for Good Job Descriptions, EEOC Issues Proposed Rule on ADA and Wellness Programs and Recent survey conducted by Gallup regarding female managers. Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - The health benefits of sunlight exposure, swimming for exercise, and cataract awareness month. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter: Agencies plan to issue final rules for SBC Requirements, Plan offerings now diverging by group size and IRS releases inflation-adjusted limits for health savings accounts (HSAs) for calendar year 2016. Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - May is skin cancer detection and prevention month, The importance of resistance training, Save money by shopping for In-Season Produce, and monthly recipe. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Issues Final Rule affecting ACA for 2016, Few employers cutting hours to avoid ACA fines, and introducing Telemedicine. Read more »

Kristen Lincoln, a member of Gowrie Group’s museum insurance practice, attended the first-ever Advocacy Day for History, Humanities and Preservation at the Connecticut State House. This event was assembled by the Connecticut Humanities, the Connecticut League of History Organizations, the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation, and the Connecticut Historical Society in an effort to raise awareness about the proposed elimination of state support for many of the heritage and cultural organizations statewide in Governor Malloy’s proposed two year budget. There were a number of guest speakers, tours of the Capitol, and a reception including an exhibition of over 20 historic objects from 19 organizations across the state. Ms. Lincoln was one of over 200 attendees at the Rally and was happy to assist these important institutions in their fight to get the word out to prevent the budget cuts and to advocate for their future survival. Ms. Lincoln states, “Museums and other cultural institutions form the backbone of our communities and are integral to a number of industries, including tourism and education. Their importance to the State of Connecticut cannot be overemphasized enough.”

Every company, regardless of size and industry, is a potential target for crime and fraud. Statistics and surveys show this to be one of the fastest growing problems business face today. External forces such as the changing economic environment, advancements in technology and media, rapid expansions, mergers & acquisitions, coupled with internal forces such as increased employee trust, inadequate supervision, entitlement attitudes, and poor morale, are driving the increase in and prevalence of employee fraud. To manage the risk of employee fraud, companies should implement smart loss prevention measures and speak to their insurance agent to secure adequate Crime Coverage. Read more »

Live Well, Work Well: New guidelines - cholesterol is not so bad, Spring training - 5K run, Google has partnered with the Mayo Clinic, Identity Theft Protection and monthly recipe. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - New guidance for employer payments of individual premiums, IRS releases ACA reporting forms and instructions, and Cadillac Tax. Read more »

Dawn Speros, Senior Yacht Insurance Specialist at Gowrie Group, will present an e-Seminar titled “Who is Liable?” to yacht brokers affiliated with YBAA (Yacht Broker Association of America) on April 8, 2015. She will address in detail some of the scenarios and factors that surround the complicated question of liability as it applies to the marine industry. In many cases, brokers, salespeople, mechanics, and/or boat yards (for care, custody, and control) are involved in unwinding the scenario. Yacht brokers can be particularly vulnerable during exhibition, demonstration, sea trials and deliveries. This seminar will help marine industry professionals understand what they personally are covered for and by what policies.

Gowrie Group, a leading independent marine insurance agency, is proud to be joining the international shipping community at the Connecticut Maritime Association’s 30th Annual Shipping Conference and Exhibition (CMA) - March 23, 2015. This conference is the biggest shipping conference in North America; more than 2,500 people from the international shipping community will be attendance. Rick Bagnall, Gowrie Group’s Crew Medical expert shared, “The working international marine industry is very important to Gowrie Group. We look forward to our involvement with CMA’s Shipping Conference in March and continuing to deepen our relationships in the shipping industry.” Rod Clingman and John Fisher of Gowrie Group will also be attending the event on behalf of Gowrie Group. Read more »

Live Well, Work Well: March is National Nutrition Month, How much exercise do you need?, Acid Reflux, Re-evaluating binge drinking, monthly recipe. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - Individual mandate penalty cap, Supreme Court rejects presumption of lifetime retiree benefits, and wellness programs. Read more »

Winter weather creates a variety of hazards and risks that can significantly impact everyday tasks and work activities. People that are outdoors in cold environments for extended periods of time can be at risk for Cold Stress and other cold induced injuries. Learn more about the risk factors, common cold induced injuries (hypothermia, frostbite, trench foot), and safety guidelines for prevention. Read more »

Gowrie Group's Safety & Loss Control expert, Kellie Crete, will be offering a 10-Hour OSHA Outreach Training Program designed specifically for boatyard, yacht club and marina employees. The program will provide training for workers and employers on the recognition, avoidance, abatement, and prevention of safety and health hazards in workplaces. The program also provides information regarding workers' rights, employer responsibilities, and how to file a complaint. Dates: March 30/31, 2015. Register online. Read more »

Gowrie, VFIS and the Connecticut Fire Academy are partnering to present this helpful risk management program to the state's municipalities and public safety providers. The program is designed to teach the instructional methodology to potential and existing instructors needed to deliver Emergency Vehicle Driver Training. Date - March 7 & 8, 2015. Location - Windsor Locks, CT. Read more »

Message from Gowrie about the Cyber Attack on Anthem - Anthem Inc., parent company of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, is the victim of a highly-sophisticated cyber attack. This attack affects current and former members. For more in-depth and ongoing information Anthem has created a website www.anthemfacts.com for more information. Read more »

Live Well, Work Well - Avoiding the flu, take care of your eyes, 10 minute workouts and going gluten free. Read more »

Gowrie Group and VFIS are sponsoring an Emergency Vehicle Driver Training Seminar for instructors. This course is designed to teach the instructional methodology needed to deliver the training to others. This program was developed to teach the emergency vehicle operator (EVO) proper driving technique, the mental as well as the physical aspects of the driving task. Date: May 9, 2015. Location: West Barnstable Fire Department, MA Read more »

More than 425 local businesses and individuals came together and donated an incredible $137,747 to benefit the Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries (SSKP) through the Gowrie Group Challenge. To launch this annual challenge on November 15, 2014, Gowrie Group announced a $25,000 dollar-for-dollar matching donation to the Shoreline Soup Kitchens. LC Doane Company, The Safety Zone, Tower Labs, Andre Prost and All Waste, each stepped up to be partner sponsors, and provided an additional $22,500 in matching funds. Read more »

Employee Benefits Bulletin - Agencies prohibit all employer reimbursement of individual premiums, Health Plan Identifier (HPID) delayed indefinitely, Minimum Wage increases, and Overview of trends from the 2014 Wellness Benefits Survey. Read more »

Each December, Gowrie Group employees make a donation to a local non-profit in the name of the owners of Gowrie, as a holiday gift from all the employees. In 2014, the employees of Gowrie Group chose the Providence Animal Rescue League (PARL). PARL is a remarkable, 100 year old nonprofit organization led by an energetic group of people. The PARL team is comprised of animal advocates who accept and place domestic animals, help reduce pet overpopulation, and provide education to the public on animal well-being and rights issues. In total, Gowrie employees donated more than $1,000 and a large supply of animal toys, blankets, and treats. Brad Preston and Kristen Lincoln of Gowrie Group presented the check and goods to PARL on January 5, 2015. Link to photo and News Release. Read more »

Live well, work well - Goal setting in 2015, National Blood Donor month, battling January gym crowds and calories outside the kitchen. Read more »

Benefits Newsletter - HHS issues proposed benefit and payment parameters for 2016, ACA affordability percentages increase for 2016 and HIPPA certificates of creditable coverage no longer necessary due to the prohibition of pre-existing condition exclusions (PCEs) by the ACA. Read more »

Gowrie Group, a leading independent insurance agency, celebrated a year of great milestones throughout the 2014 year. These milestones are capped with marking the company’s 40th year in business. Read more »

Carter Gowrie: Doubling the Community’s Effort. Over the past decade, Carter Gowrie and the Gowrie Group have raised nearly $1 million for the Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries. For the 11th straight year, the Gowrie Group of Westbrook is holding its annual Gowrie Group Matching Challenge, this year seeking to raise $125,000 to benefit the Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries (SSKP). Read the article

Gowrie Group is proud to have sponsored the New England Museum Association conference. What an amazing event and group of committed professionals! We enjoyed getting to know to the greater NEMA community and learning about the important work you all do for our communities. We would welcome the opportunity to get to know your institution better over the coming months. Gowrie Group has a long history of providing risk management and insurance services to non-profits and cultural institutions that face complex and broad risks. We are proud to insure many prominent not-for-profits across New England and beyond, including Mystic Seaport, Maritime Aquarium Norwalk, Mystic Arts Center, Blithewold Mansion, Gardens and Arboretum, 1000 non-profit sailing organizations, 600 municipal public safety and emergency organizations, and more. Gowrie brings to institutions trusted expertise and specialized services such as fine arts appraisals, directors and officers liability, programs for protecting traveling/visiting collections, special events coverage, coverage for youth-related programming/camps, and risk management/reduction techniques. Please reach out to us if you have any questions or would like an insurance review. We would be more than happy to come visit you to learn more about your institution. Contact us at museums@gowrie.com

An energetic team of Gowrie employees worked together to hosted a lunch for the Soup Kitchen community at Grace Church in Old Saybrook, CT. 40 Gowrie employees helped to provide, prepare, and serve a BBQ feast to over 50 Soup Kitchen guests. Read more »

Gowrie Group October 2014 BenefitsBuzz newsletter includes: communicating with employees during Open Enrollment, new rules on contraception for Religious Employers, and new IRS reporting requirements for IRS Code 6055 and 6056. Read more »

Gowrie Group is excited to announce that we have joined forces with the Shoreline Insurance Agency. The Shoreline Insurance Agency is a strong Connecticut-based insurance firm with niche specializations in commercial insurance, boat/yacht insurance, and marine insurance. Together the two agencies are the largest marine insurance agency in the nation and the largest independent insurance agency in the Northeast. Read more »

Gowrie Claims Services, a division of Gowrie Group which specializes in claims management services to police officers and firefighters injured in the line of duty (IOD), announces continuation of its widely successful educational seminar series. Over the past 12 months, Gowrie Claims Services has hosted multiple seminars for Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Town Administrators, and HR Directors throughout Massachusetts. These seminars focused on educating public officials about the challenging aspects that they face related to IOD claims. Read more »

VFIS / Gowrie Group were a featured exhibitor at the June 2014 New England Fire/EMS Expo, the region’s largest conference for emergency responders. Gowrie Group and VFIS also provide the insurance for this event, which is held each year in West Springfield, MA. Jeff Rudzavice, a member of Gowrie’s municipal team commented, "The show continues to be a great opportunity to meet with our 600+ municipal clients from Maine to CT. We also count exhibitors as our customers too, so it was an enjoyable reunion with our many friends in public safety.” Read more »

Gowrie Group announces a new multi-year sponsorship with US Sailing, the National Governing Body of the sport, and Chubb Insurance. "Chubb and Gowrie are committed to advancing the goals of US Sailing. We are sailors, educators and flag officers ourselves. We see this longstanding partnership as an expression of our mutual commitment to our sport,” said Ed Gumbrecht, Gowrie Group’s President Read more »

Financial Advisers need to understand the basics of flood insurance to help their clients make smart decisions related to coastal and flood prone properties. Example questions: What should be recommended to a client buying a coastal home? What if they already own a flood prone home? Read more »

Gowrie is excited to announce that Rick Bagnall has joined the company's growing benefits and healthcare division. Rick will focus on Crew Medical Insurance, Association Marine Health Insurance, and Employee Benefit Consulting. Rick brings to Gowrie Group deep marine industry expertise and a unique ability to create new medical insurance programs for marine oriented teams, groups, and industries Read more »

Sailors are known for enjoying themselves in the party tent after a day on the water. How can your sailing organization ensure members and sailors drink responsibly and ensure the organization is protected if an accident does occur? Read more »

Getting the right insurance in place requires thinking ahead and smart planning. With the right protection in place, your club or sailing organization can confidently run regattas, borrow boats, teach sailing, hold social events, weather storms - and keep your club, board members, flag officers, volunteers and employees well-protected. Avoiding a serious financial loss will enable your organization to preserve the traditions and heritage that make your club special. Read more »

More than 35 leaders and directors from sailing organizations across New England attended the first 2014 US Sailing Regional Symposium in Marion, MA on March 7th. This symposium, the first of 20 planned across the country during the 2014 year, was hosted by US Sailing and sponsored by Gowrie. Dan Cooney and Steve Prime, commercial and yacht club insurance experts from Gowrie Group, led an engaging discussion on insurance topics that matter most to community sailing programs and sailing organizations. The group tackled coverage questions related to liquor liability, policy exclusions, and student transportation. The Burgee Program is the only comprehensive insurance program developed to meet the unique needs of yacht clubs, community sailing programs, schools, and associations. The program is endorsed by US Sailing, underwritten by Chubb, and managed by the marine insurance experts at Gowrie Group. Learn more at www.burgeeprogram.com or contact dancooney@gowrie.com or steveprime@gowrie.com. Read more »

An engaged group of business owners and HR professionals participated in an interactive Affordable Care Act seminar lead by expert Tom Davidson, Benefits Consultant from Gowrie Group. The seminar was hosted by the Greater Norwich Area Chamber of Commerce in Norwich, CT on March 6th. The seminar educated the group on the 2014 modifications to the law and the interactive discussion focused on lessons learned since the law went into effect on 1/1/2014. The group had a lively discussion on several topics including rating changes, ACA associated fees, new prescription drug coverage, delays to the employer mandate, and the status of the exchange. Contact Tom Davidson to schedule a seminar at your location or to learn more, 860.399.3676 or tomd@gowrie.com

2014 was quite the year for the insurance industry. When considering the billions of dollars in claim settlements resulting from Sandy, it is not a surprise that yacht valuations are at the forefront of conversations among boat owners, boat brokers, surveyors, and marine underwriters. What can we expect going forward? Join Dawn Speros in a discussion of what yacht sales professionals need to know in the new marine insurance environment.

"Gowrie Group was recognized with a special award by the Rhode Island Association of Fire Chiefs’ Foundation (RIAFC) at their Annual Dinner. The event was attended by more than 200 people. The award was in appreciation of Gowrie Group / VFIS’s support of the RIAFC Honor Flight Network. The RIAFC Foundation is the nonprofit arm of the state’s association of fire chiefs. The association also acts as a local hub or chapter of the Honor Flights Network (HFN). HFN is a nonprofit organization which transports America’s military veterans to Washington, DC to visit their memorials and recognize their service and sacrifices. Chief George Farrell, president of the association said when presenting the award, “Gowrie Group has been a friend and strong supporter of not only the association but also in particular our Honor Flights project. Brad Preston, of Gowrie, is also a veteran and we appreciate his involvement in our work.” Brad Preston, partner of Gowrie Group, said when accepting the award, “We’re honored. We cannot imagine a better group of people or a more important cause. We’re fortunate to be a part of the Foundation’s work on behalf of both the state’s fire service and local military veterans.” "

Gowrie Group is proud to be a Gold Sponsor of the 2014 US Sailing Leadership Forum. Gowrie's experts will be panelists in these interactive breakout sessions: Lawyers, Nuns, Money - OSHA and USCG (Kellie Crete & Steve Prime); Club Insurance Is Like Gybing - Think Ahead (Dan Cooney & Steve Prime); Pitch Perfect - Sponsorship (Whitney Peterson); Regatta Safety (Dan Cooney); Financial Bench-marking & Yacht Club Data (Dan Cooney). Read more »

Gowrie Group is proud to be Mystic Seaport’s insurance partner and protect the nation’s maritime history. As a part of Mystic Seaport’s community partner program, Gowrie Group supports the work and mission of Mystic Seaport through shared values, business collaboration, and philanthropy. Carter Gowrie, Gowrie's CEO shared, “The vision the Seaport had to undertake a complete restoration of the Charles W. Morgan and actually go sailing underscores how important Mystic Seaport is to the history of the sea. Our involvement in the risk planning and insurance for the Morgan project and the Museum is a great sense of pride for Gowrie Group.” Stephen C. White President, Mystic Seaport stated, “Gowrie has excelled in meeting the Museum’s insurance needs, and since day one their professional team has been a pleasure to work with.” Gowrie Group also stands ready to protect what matters most to Mystic Seaport members. Read more »

The 2014 Marine Industry is off to a very active start. Brokers are connecting with Dawn Speros, Gowrie Group's Senior Yacht Consultant, at these recent and upcoming events: January 31st: Providence Boat Show; February 13-17th: Miami Boat Show; Feb 22nd-March 2: New England Boat Show; March 5th: YBAA e-Seminar: "Post Sandy Observations: Valuation and Due Diligence are Critical"; March 20-23rd: Palm Beach Boat Show

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers to post OSHA Form 300A each year from February 1st to April 30th. This summary form must include the total number of job-related injuries and illnesses that occurred in 2013 and that were logged on OSHA Form 300, Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses Read more »

Thanks to 400 local businesses and individuals, the Gowrie Group Challenge raised an incredible $145,000 to benefit the Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries (SSKP). Because of this increased participation and generosity, the 10th Annual Gowrie Group Challenge was by far the most successful ever. This year we surpassed our goal by $25,000, and raised 22% more than ever before. Read more »

Kellie Crete, Gowrie Group’s Safety & Loss Control Manager, presented an engaging seminar on the impact of OSHA regulations on boatyard and marinas. She was a featured speaker at the 2014 International Marina & Boatyard Conference (IMBC), held this year in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Her seminar focused on helping marina and boatyard owners, operators, and managers, as well as dock masters, harbormasters, and boat builders and repairers, understand how they can build working relationship with OSHA. The discussion also addressed boatyard and marina safety as well as how OSHA regulations apply to these types of business. IMBC Seminar Manager, Sarah Devlin, wrote to Kellie, “The seminar series overall at the 2014 IMBC was very positive and you [Kellie] had a lot to do with that. You knocked it out of the park. Again.” One seminar participant said, “Kellie’s session should be a ‘mandatory’ session for every attendee of IMBC.” IMBC is the leading marina and boatyard conference. IMBC is where dedicated marine professionals gather to exchange information, talk about the future of the industry, explore new methods and techniques, receive updates on revised standards and established rules, and discover new products. The conference is produced by the Association of Marina Industries (AMI).

  
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Roy McNamee, Managing Director of Gowrie Claims Services, and his team presented a morning-long best practices program for public safety officer injuries-on-duty. The event, held in Mansfield MA, drew more than 40 public officials from 21 towns. Other presenters included Attorney John Clifford, Attorney Jaime Kenny, and Brad Preston of Gowrie Group. The speakers reviewed Massachusetts statutes, case law, and model approaches for handling claims. In the words of one town official who attended, “The seminar was excellent…everyone was so informative and helpful. Thanks for inviting me!” Learn more about Gowrie Claims Services.

A new OSHA standard is being put in place to bring the US into alignment with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals. Chemical users need to continue to update safety data sheets when new ones become available, provide training on the new label elements and update hazard communication programs if new hazards are identified. Chemical producers must review hazard information for all chemicals produced or imported, classify chemicals according to the new classification criteria, and update labels and safety data sheets Read more »

Gowrie Group, New England's renowned marine and specialty insurance agency, launched their adopted, refurbished Dyer Dhow Dinghy named "Gowrie Group" just hours before the start of the 64th Dyer Dhow Derby sailing competition at the Mystic Seaport. Gowrie Group adopted the 9-foot boat as part of the Seaport's "Adopt a Dyer Program" - a program which uses donations to restore Dyer Dinghies that have been abandoned and are no longer usable. Read more »

Kristen Lincoln of Gowrie Group was selected to be an expert panelist at the annual "Teaching With Small Boats Alliance Conference," held at the Mystic Seaport in Mystic, Connecticut. The workshop was entitled "Taking Care of Basics" and addressed organizational issues typically faced by emerging non profit organizations. Kristen was invited to participate as the insurance expert and addressed such topics as finding the right broker, what coverages are essential for a growing organization, and various risk management techniques that an organization can undertake that will make them less exposed to risk. A breakout session took place after the panel of speakers so participants could ask their own questions and get advice.You can reach Kristen at kristenl@gowrie.com, 860.399.2862.

Gowrie Group's successful Burgee Insurance Program provides nearly 1,000 yacht clubs and sailing organizations nationwide with customized, comprehensive insurance protection. Gowrie is pleased to announce that we have expanded our outstanding program to include select qualifying beach clubs. With diverse features and activities - cabanas, historic structures, snack bars, weddings, swim meets, tennis instruction, and more - beach clubs require protection that cannot be compromised. Gowrie's insurance experts understand the unique risks faced by beach clubs and coastal properties. We put our expertise to work for you, creating a complete, cost-effective insurance program tailored to your beach club's specific needs. Read more »

Small businesses and non-profits are not immune to cyber attacks. According to a recent study, over 72% of all data breaches occur in small-to-medium sized business. Most general liability policies do not cover the costs associated with mitigating a data breach; cyber liability insurance is a smart addition to your existing insurance program. Read more »

Super Storm Sandy in October of 2012 was a real wake up call for the Northeast and for those in hurricane prone states in general. Sandy led to nearly 1.5 million insurance claims, including 1.1 million homeowners’ claims, about 250,000 vehicle claims, and more than 200,000 commercial insurance claims. Sandy was the single-largest recreational boating industry loss ever recorded, with more than 65,000 boats damaged or destroyed, resulting in $650 million in losses, across all types of property. Furthermore, Sandy was the first really powerful storm to hit the metropolitan New York area, in years. Those of us working along the coast felt Sandy’s impact in many ways. Applying lessons learned from Hurricane Sandy will enable you to better protect your business in the future. Read more »

OSHA has an "emphasis program" on Forklifts. Which means if you have a forklift, you have a greater chance of being inspected. And if you are inspected, there will most likely be a great amount of focus on your forklift, your drivers, and the accompanying paperwork. Gowrie Group recommends that you take the time now to make sure you are in compliance with OSHA's Powered Truck Regulations and to implement these smart forklift safety guidelines. Read more »

Dawn Speros, Senior Yacht Insurance Specialist, and Steve Prime, VP of Commercial Insurance, have been selected to present e-Seminars to an audience of marine brokers affiliated with YBAA (Yacht Broker Association of America). These engaging seminars will be presented online to an invitation only audience Read more »

Gowrie Group is pleased to announce Kristen Lincoln joined the company as an Account Executive within the commercial insurance department. She will focus on bringing Gowrie’s niche insurance programs and services to municipalities and non-profits throughout New England. Read more »

Gowrie Group is quickly becoming known as the preeminent expert on how Healthcare Reform will affect Connecticut businesses. Skip Young, President and Principal of Gowrie’s Benefits Division, is presenting a series of seminars on this topic. The first two sessions filled quickly and were extremely well received; additional sessions have been schedule. Read more »

Gowrie Group's Safety & Loss Control expert, Kellie Crete, is teaching a 10-Hour OSHA Outreach Training Program designed specifically for boatyard, yacht club and marina employees on March 12 & 13th. The program provides training for workers and employers on the recognition, avoidance, abatement, and prevention of safety and health hazards in workplaces. The program also provides information regarding workers' rights, employer responsibilities, and how to file a complaint. CT and RI Marine Trades Association members receive a 20% discount. contact Kellie at kelliec@gowrie.com. Read more »

Gowrie Group is excited to announce that Kiley Prime has joined the company as a Personal Lines and Equine insurance specialist. Kiley furthers the expansion of Gowrie's established equine insurance practice. Kiley brings to Gowrie Group her deep equine experience as a rider and horse expert. In her new role, Kiley will work with Gowrie's personal insurance equine team to advise clients on insurance solutions for all of their personal and equine assets. Read more »

Gowrie Group, a prominent independent insurance agency, is excited to announce the expansion of their established equine insurance practice through the addition of Holly Griffin. Holly brings to Gowrie Group her long time equine and farm clients, along with decades of equine experience and expertise. In her new role, Holly will work with Gowrie’s equine team to advise her current clients and further build Gowrie’s equine segment. Gowrie Group’s equine programs provide protection for owners, horses, farms, and ranches. These premier equine insurance products and services are accessed from the industry’s top rated carriers. Read more »

Gowrie Group, New England’s premier independent insurance agency, is excited to announce that Dan Cooney has joined the company’s growing commercial insurance division. Dan will work with marine businesses, commercial entities, and yacht clubs across the US to help them put in place comprehensive business insurance solutions and risk management plans. Read more »

Gowrie Group, Connecticut’s premier independent insurance agency, has recently been recognized for multiple prestigious achievements. These recognitions showcase how Gowrie Group continues to differentiate itself in the marketplace as a leader and an innovator: in the view of employees, among competitors, based on industry rankings, and as rated by their own clients. Gowrie’s recent 2012 recognitions include: Voted Top Workplace of Connecticut (by employees, among companies with 50-150 employees) Ranked #1 in CT and #4 in New England (by Insurance Journal, among privately-held insurance firms) Barbara Cooper, Commercial Lines Manager, recognized as 2012/2013 Professional Woman of the Year (by the National Association of Professional Women) Read more »

Beyond the risk of injury to riders and horses, equestrians bear increased personal and commercial liability exposures that need to be individually considered in their personal and family-risk management plans. Here are some of the key questions horse owners can ask to assess their expo-sures to risk and the adequacy of their current risk management plan Read more »

News Alert: For Immediate Release

As you are aware, the House of Representatives passed the Senate health care bill and a reconciliation bill on Sunday, March 21, 2010. This bill has significant implications for employers who offer health care benefits and the employees and families covered by those plans.

We know you have a lot of questions and concerns about health care reform and how the legislation will impact your benefits. We have been closely following the health care reform legislation and the implications for employer-sponsored health care and benefits.

Listed below are some of the package's provisions that will affect employers:

• Employer Mandates. Effective in 2014, most employers with 50 or more employees must offer coverage to employees. Employers who do not do so may be subject to hefty penalties. The benefit plans offered will also have to meet certain requirements.
• Individual Mandates. Citizens and legal residents will be required to have a certain level of health coverage, or pay a tax penalty. These rules could restrict the usage of high deductible health plans and will decrease the chance that your employees will decline coverage under your plan.
• Coverage Subsidies. Small employers that provide health insurance for employees will be eligible for a tax credit. Also, employers who provide insurance to retirees over age 55 who are not eligible for Medicare are eligible for a temporary reinsurance program.
• Health Benefit Exchanges. In 2014, state exchanges will be established for small businesses and individuals to shop for health insurance. Larger businesses will be able purchase coverage in the exchanges in the future.
• Insurance Reforms. These reforms require policies to provide dependent coverage for children through age 26. They prohibit lifetime coverage limits, rescission of coverage except in cases of fraud, and imposing pre-existing condition exclusions on children. Many of these provisions will take effect in 2010. They may affect your benefits and how you administer your benefit programs.

Gowrie Group Can Help You Get Ready for Changes

Health care reform will almost certainly involve sweeping changes to the benefits you provide your employees and how you provide them. However, it will most likely affect each business differently. Gowrie Group will review your company's current employee benefits to make sure you are prepared for the changing landscape. We will work with you to maximize the value of your employee benefits and minimize your costs and risk. As always, we will continue to monitor the developments regarding health care and keep you informed.

Please contact your Gowrie Group employee benefits representative at 800.262.8911 with any questions.

Chris Brodeur Joins Gowrie as a Commercial Insurance VP.

October 2009, Westbrook, CT:
Gowrie Group is pleased to announce that Christopher T. Brodeur has joined the company as a Vice President in its commercial insurance division. In his role at Gowrie Mr. Brodeur will work with business owners and executives throughout Connecticut, New England, New York and New Jersey to customize property and casualty insurance programs to best fit the unique needs of each client.

Mr. Brodeur is a commercial lines agent with over twenty years experience in the business insurance industry. He began his career with the Hartford Insurance Company, and embarked on his agency career in 1989 with the Levine Agency of Waterford, which was acquired by the Webster Insurance Agency and more recently USI, Inc.

“Chris is one of the most respected commercial insurance professionals in the state,” said Ed Gumbrecht, Gowrie’s Chief Operating Officer. “His decision to join Gowrie reflects his confidence in our ability to bring creative insurance solutions to a wider audience.”

Brodeur commented, “The Gowrie organization is unique in its customer focus, and in its niche expertise. I look forward to contributing my knowledge and experience to this truly exceptional organization.”

Chris is a graduate of the University of Connecticut school of Business with a major in Risk and Insurance. He resides in Glastonbury, and will operate from Gowrie’s Westbrook headquarters.

Gowrie provides insurance, employee benefits, and financial services to individual and businesses throughout the US.

The Burgee Program - Wherever Your Junior Sailors Go, Your Yacht Club is at Risk. The Burgee Program is the only comprehensive insurance program developed to meet the unique needs of all types of sailing organizations - yacht clubs, community programs, schools, classes, fleets, paper clubs, and more. Read more »

Gowrie Group launches new branding upgrade.

Insurance firm consolidates services, identity, and message.

Westbrook, Connecticut: The Gowrie Group, an insurance, employee benefits, and finance company formerly known as Gowrie, Barden & Brett, announces its new branding, effective immediately. The Connecticut and Rhode Island based organization is making the name change, along with a new logo and message, to reflect the consolidation of the increasing number of services it offers.

“The new Gowrie Group name and branding clearly represents Gowrie’s commitment to keeping communication simple, providing expert advice, and delivering the creative and customized solutions our clients need,” said Carter Gowrie, President. “The new name and branding ties together all of Gowrie’s services, programs, and companies – under one unified platform.”

Over the years, Gowrie’s services have grown to encompass insurance, employee benefits, and finance, and have been provided to clients through many linked companies and programs – Gowrie Barden & Brett, Gowrie Brett & Young, Fisher & Fisher Associates, Brewer Preferred Insurance, The Burgee Program and Customer One Financial.

While all of the Gowrie companies share the same values of insight, analysis and service, the organizational identity needed to reflect a single, dedicated team. The Gowrie Group name serves that purpose.

The new name and logo is accompanied by a new message: “Always on watch.” This is intended to reflect Gowrie Group’s understanding of the complexity of clients’ lives, whether they are at home, managing a company, or out on the water. The tagline represents a commitment to vigilance and a proactive stance in protecting client’s assets, interests, business, and traditions

“Gowrie Group and its employees are excited about the new unified name and refreshed branding,” added Carter Gowrie. “We look forward to continuing to provide the expert advice, service, and partnerships that all of our clients need and deserve.”

The new Gowrie Group identity was developed in conjunction with Mascola Group, a multi-discipline marketing firm based in New Haven, CT.

The Gowrie Group provides insurance, benefits, and financial services to individuals and businesses throughout the US, and specializes in customized business, home, auto, and marine insurance products and services. For more information about Gowrie Group visit www.gowrie.com or 800.262.8911.