| Author |
Message |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 3:23 pm: | |
Name: stormcrow
Email: stormcrow50@yahoo.com
Date: 10 Dec 1999
Time: 10:16 AM
Bulletin
Family has told me we are going to Hawaii, anyone know which companies hand cat work in the Islands, might as well make use of the trip and meet someone.
Unions: are great levelers, i work hard to improve my knowledge, learn new programs and get the certifications that will help me, and if I do good work, then I will (hopefully) get called. There are many better adjuster out there and a lot worse. A union is great on an assembley line, but it tends to lower everyone to a same level. Many of us here have been inside and done the polical thing. We are catadjusting because its the most fun adjusting out there. A union will only help the bottom 50% of the food chain, hard work and a willingness to learn and listen to instructions are whats needed. Merry Xmas all. |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 3:21 pm: | |
Name: Jeff Burns
Email: Sovan90@aol.com
Date: 10 Dec 1999
Time: 05:23 AM
Bulletin
Thanks Vince, I agree with Don too. Common sense should prevail! |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 3:18 pm: | |
Name: Mark
Email: MRichardson@Totura.com
Date: 09 Dec 1999
Time: 09:46 AM
Bulletin
I have monitored the unionization issue for awhile now and note the apparent disdain CAT adjusters have for those who have employed them in the past. As a 30 year Florida based IA firm, we have had numerous occasions to staff up. We have recruited some of the finest individuals to adjust under our banner that I have ever met in this business. I am not naive to think my firm is an exception to the rule but judging by the comments it seems CAT adjusters don't seek out smaller local IA's instead of the dominant players I see referenced. There are IA's out there who treat storm troopers fairly and as professionals. Maybe you need to look in new places for CAT opportunities in the next storm's aftermath. Start at www.naiia.com. You may be surprised to see how you are treated by firms who belong to this Association that have a need to staff up after a disaster. The true professional CAT adjuster does not need a union to get treated with respect and paid competively. There are IA's out there who, like the Marines, are "looking for a few good men (or women)" to supplement their ranks in a time of need. |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 3:18 pm: | |
Name: Union Cat Adjuster
Email: unioncatadjuster@hotmail.com
Date: 09 Dec 1999
Time: 09:38 AM
Bulletin
Remember, as coverage nationwide decreases, and deductibles get higher in these high risk hail and wind zones, there will be fewer and fewer "small" storms to feed everyone. Then, when the next big cat comes, there won't be the qualified "warm bodies," to handle the situation, as there has barely been in the past. The economy is strong right now. Much stronger than in the past several decades. I predict that the warm bodies that are left are very inadequate, and the few good people will be supervising the homeless and back to welfare receipients, as they try to handle claims on the next "big one." Everyone has talked about this scenario, without seeing it played out, I admit. The big difference now are the factors I mentioned.
We need a union to make it profitable enough to have a qualified pool of "warm bodies" out there.
Some of the companies within the Florida JUA have removed the "wind driven rain" as well as "non structural" hail losses as part of the HO3? How many small cats will you see in the future with this trend? Better get ready folks. This profession is downsizing. This alone gives us more bargaining power. The few decent people that are left.
Someone should take a poll of how many cat adjusters have their own disability insurance. I'd love to take a random sample of 1,000 of us and just see what the numbers are. Not on the Cado site either. That might wake a few of you up, as to how well you are really doing.
Union Cat Adjuster |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 3:16 pm: | |
Name: Vince Tabor
Email: goldmarko@yahoo.com
Date: 09 Dec 1999
Time: 08:51 AM
Bulletin
I'm in agreement with Jeff Burns and Don Elkinton because they speak common sense on this issue. Remember the old adage: "A clear conscience is usually the sign of a bad memory" Beat of holiday wishes to all! |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 3:14 pm: | |
Name: SteveC
Email: stevec@cs.com
Date: 09 Dec 1999
Time: 06:20 AM
Bulletin
OldTimer- Its just the nature of the beast. Beggers cant be choosy. You can work as a staff guy and suck it up in the chain of command playing office politics or control your destiny as an IA and take what crumbs they throw you. Like Elvis or Sinatra "I did it my way". |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 3:09 pm: | |
Name: Old Timer
Email: odtmre@hotmail.com
Date: 08 Dec 1999
Time: 01:38 PM
Bulletin
Steve C says that "independent adjusters are already treated like dirt."
Steve are you suggesting that we all just accept the carriers continuing to treat us like dirt, or do you have any other suggestions to change the way we are treated? |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 3:08 pm: | |
Name: SteveC
Email: stevec@cs.com
Date: 08 Dec 1999
Time: 12:19 PM
Bulletin
The only thing that needs to be unionized is that big red outfit called Snake Farm or Allsnake with possibly a few others but that would only be for staff people and not independent adjusters. Independent adjusters already are treated like dirt so try and unionize and theyll laugh you out of the business. You couldnt possibly get business from a carrier being union. What would you do , go on strike? gimme a break |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 3:07 pm: | |
Name: Jeff Burns
Email: Sovan90@aol.com
Date: 06 Dec 1999
Time: 10:47 AM
Bulletin
BROSE, Both of My parents are adjusters and we were in business since 1952. I have seen attempt after attempt fail in organizing a professional association. The companies were in severe opposition to the local and state claims associations as the felt it would lead to an organized labor situation. I strongly disagree with the notion that they( the carriers) just want "Bodies". If we accept that then we are writing out own ticket to ride in the rear of the airplane. The issue of professionalism I pointed out in my original post is the key. Consider a century ago Doctors were not regarded with the reverence they seem to enjoy now, nor the compensation. Its just that simple,"Quality is the Key". The respect will come.When the actuaries finish with the numbers the advantages should be apparent. This would require a total dedicated committment on our part. I a not sure it is there. But aleast the problems are in the forefront and it certainly has stirred a degree of discussion and interest from within our industry. Why not try it? |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 3:07 pm: | |
Name: BRose
Email: BRose@biosys.net
Date: 06 Dec 1999
Time: 09:22 AM
Bulletin
Lets keep this in perspective, do the carriers really need or want a AIC/CPCU adjuster, are they even willing to pay a premium for a certified adjuster. I honestly believe it is just bodies and bodies alone they are looking for at catastophes. Its numbers numbers and more numbers in the cat adjusting. I think there is a difference between us and regular IAs. Quantity v. quality Issues like the fee schedules of JUA, FWUA and NFIP, JUST SAY NO to the call. If you know enough to say NO then other calls will come maybe not that storm, but there is always another storm. Anyone else want to compare fee schedules? |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 3:05 pm: | |
Name: Jeff Burns
Email: Sovan90@aol.com
Date: 06 Dec 1999
Time: 08:42 AM
Bulletin
The thought of turning our skills and experience over to a union disturbs me greatly. We have come a long way through the advent of CPCU, AIC-IIA and other orginazations. The answer to me is to elevate our education and skills along with a truly professional orginazation. One which sets standards and not merely rubber stamps bodies to increase its membership. Professionalism, a code of ethics, and a strong participation of just the members on this site will be a true beginning. Companies will soon realize where the quality is and those adjusters will be in demand. Hopefully sooner or later the rest will have to follow suit. There is no other profession that deals with more issues and the amount of monies we are responsible for. We should be compensated for the job. But lets elevate ourselves to the task by qualifactions, screening, training and professional membership which will create its own demand. |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 3:02 pm: | |
Name: Don Elkinton
Email: Dadx9@aol.com
Date: 05 Dec 1999
Time: 04:15 PM
Bulletin
After much thought and consideration, I have decided to post my thoughts. I do this in light of controversial statements made concerning another subject. I have learned that the Adjusting Firms and Carriers do monitor this Board. So, if any firms or carriers wish to respond please do so to me personally either at my e-mail address or call me at home (you have my numbers). I understand stealth postings, but the time has come to reveal yourselves or continue your crusade in private until you can post here and make your stand. I speak from firsthand experience of union participation. I personally spent 12 years as a Teamster. Forced participation I might add. My father is a retired Teamster after 30 plus years of faithful service to company and union. I never saw a more loyal or hard working employee than my father. I think employee is the keyword here. There is no doubt that collective the bargaining has had a successful history.
Continued - Do I want to unionize? Absolutely not. I have raised my children by setting the bar high. In my union experience negoitiated performances hold back the productive and reward the faithful. I have been in the union and in management at different times in my life. Only to see both sides "push the envelope" of the contract. Meanwhile the consumer suffers. I am thankful for the freedom we have to post here. I am willing to go it alone out here. I'll let my merits speak for themselves. And I will continue to invest in new people who share that ethic. Thanks for the opportunity.
Continued - Over last decade I have spent my energy in building my business as an Independent Adjuster. I have spent my hard earned money in improving my skills and much time researching quality companies (vendors and carriers). Also many hours networking with quality mentors who I have gleaned much from. In addition, I have worked my tail off! Fortunately I have a great family who appreciate my efforts. I am blesed to have been part of a small team of quality men and women who like me have worked their tails off and remember what it is like to work as an employee. |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 3:00 pm: | |
Name: stormguy
Email: stormguy@msn.com
Date: 04 Dec 1999
Time: 09:09 PM
Bulletin
Maybe a Union would be good, or maybe not. Maybe we would actually make good money if we did not have to pay such a large chunk of our billing to the temp service that gives us the call, ie, gab, pilot, etc. We probable are the only temp employees to have to have 35 to 40% of our pay taken from us just to recieve a phone call telling us we are needed. They all proclaim that it costs alot to write us a check. Kelly Services or Manpower or any other temp service does not charge their client the company that high of a percentage to provide people. We are being take advantage of. It would be great if a company could actually be more reasonable as to what they charge to make a phone call and process our checks. Just a thought? |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 2:59 pm: | |
Name: Union Cat Adjuster
Email: unioncatadjuster@hotmail.com
Date: 04 Dec 1999
Time: 05:56 PM
Bulletin
I see a lot of ignorance about unions on this page. As for the argument that there will be no one to bargain with. That's like saying no one hires us. You can call our profession on paper anything you want to, but we are the temporary employees of who we work for. You collectively bargain with the entity that hires you. It's very simple. A union would give us a voice, a very powerful voice in the market place. As it stands today, WE HAVE NO COLLECTIVE VOICE. We have no collective strength to negotiate.
As for the mob argument, what a joke. What an ignorant view to assume that unions are a mob consipiracy. But then, that's the kind of ignorance that keeps some licking the boots of their masters without reward.
It's very easy to make arguments against unionization, just like it's easy to argue that there should be no United States of America, or should of been no 13 colonies, or anything else organized. Whether it will work or not for this profession, is a valid question. But I hear no other solid solutions being voiced here. I'm sure the pilots, auto workers, steel workers, all the heard the same cries of "how are we gonna do it," and "who'll listen to us."
With the AFL-CIO's help, I think we can do this. We need a collective voice, we need the United Storm Adjusters. It will be fun to have a union. It will be fun to have the power to whine loudly ............ Heck, we might even make some headlines. Aren't we worth it?
Union Cat Adjuster |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 2:58 pm: | |
Name: WRAY DECKER
Email: WRAYDECKER@CS.COM
Date: 04 Dec 1999
Time: 11:29 AM
Bulletin
BE REAL...A UNION WOULD SET US BACK YEARS,,,, |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 2:58 pm: | |
Name: Jimmy Meredith
Email: jmere83691@aol.com
Date: 04 Dec 1999
Time: 10:25 AM
Bulletin
Mean spirited comments shows a mean spirited personality! |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 2:56 pm: | |
Name: TTom
Email: tm5134@aol.com
Date: 04 Dec 1999
Time: 08:22 AM
Bulletin
Reports about the JUA fee reminds me of the late 80's when people drilling for oil were gripeing about crude oil being down from 38 a barrel to 28, an old man said to them boys I remember when I was getting 4 a barrel and got rich, i just kept my head down and ••• up working and got rich. It is not the fee schedule, but the paper work involved that makes JUA look bad, it appears that everyone knew or should have knew what the schedule was prior to be deployed. Again :SOME " people need representation and some dont. but starting a union,if done, then please tell me who you are going to negiotate monies, benis, etc with the carrier, the Pilots, the JUA's, just who. and what will I get when this is done. Also, How much is it going to cost? these things are what we need to know before trying to establish a union. We must remember the "Newbies" and "Contractors"and even "PA's" will be hired real fast to settle claims on an as needed CAT basis. Thanks for listening. |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 2:55 pm: | |
Name: Ben Thayer
Email: Adjuster@happy.com
Date: 04 Dec 1999
Time: 07:44 AM
Bulletin
To Union Cat Adjuster:
If you are currently working a schedule you can't live with, you're part of the problem you want to fix. Tell JUA why you can't work for them and then walk out. If you believe what you have been spewing, lead the revolt by example. My guess is that your detractors (me included) have been right about you all along. This is all the work you are qualified to get and you want a mob to make it better for you. Do you have the guts to be the Rosa Parks of the adjusting community? |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 2:54 pm: | |
Name: Union Cat Adjuster
Email: unioncatadjuster@hotmail.com
Date: 04 Dec 1999
Time: 05:27 AM
Bulletin
I don't care who wants to be in charge of our union, as long as we get one. I'd much rather be working claims, and being paid very well to do it, EVERY TIME. That's my only goal.
I'm working a storm right now. The problem is, everyone in south Florida thinks the JUA schedule sucks, but nobody seems to know what we can do to fight what is shoved down our throats. It's not as simple as saying, "I won't work for this." Although if I had to do it over again, I'd of never made this trip, and of stayed home selling construction jobs or something. My goal is simply to change the power structure, to allow us to collectively bargain. To give the vendors a reason to ask for more money, for example. Whatever works, and unions have a proven track record.
Lately, it's getting harder and harder to make money working the JUA schedules. Would everyone agree?
As for Jimmy Hoffa. This isn't about dead celebrities, this is about our bottom line. What will ultimately put more money into our pockets. No other arguments should matter if it can be proven on paper, that a union will increase our pay dramatically. I plan to do that. I care nothing about being the head of a union. I'm very happy being an adjuster.
This is a high risk job, and we should be paid better to do it, regardless of who we work for, or how the vendors wish to play games in classifying our employment status.
This is about us, all of us.
Union Cat Adjuster |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 2:53 pm: | |
Name: SteveC
Email: stevecmc@cs.com
Date: 03 Dec 1999
Time: 08:46 AM
Bulletin
I get the feeling Union Cat dude wants to be the fatcat in the head office instead of getting out and sweating like a dog or freezing to death handling cat claims. Only prob is once the mafia takes over the union he will be resting permanently in a block of concrete beside Hoffa holding up some skyscraper. |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 2:52 pm: | |
Name: Union Cat Adjuster
Email: unioncatadjuster@hotmail.com
Date: 02 Dec 1999
Time: 10:05 PM
Bulletin
Just to let you guys know, the AFL-CIO has contacted me, and they are interested in helping us form a power base apart from the vendors. We need this desperately, and it will work. I envision it being crystallized on the next big cat.
Union Cat Adjuster |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 2:51 pm: | |
Name: Sperry
Email: sperry@iasclaims.com
Date: 02 Dec 1999
Time: 02:19 PM
Bulletin
A union orginization was attempted in Pennsylvania, maybe Pittsburgh in the early 70's by a GAB office. The attempt failed, obviously. |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 2:50 pm: | |
Name: Don Elkinton
Email: Dadx9@aol.com
Date: 01 Dec 1999
Time: 02:27 PM
Bulletin
Maybe if we could get our work huge television contracts, we could reap those benefits. Talk about being in the right place at the right time.
But what do I know, I turned done a baseball contract just prior to FREE AGENCY.
I hate it when that happens. |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 2:50 pm: | |
Name: Union Cat Adjuster
Email: unioncatadjuster@hotmail.com
Date: 01 Dec 1999
Time: 08:46 AM
Bulletin
I'd like someone with an long memory to find out something for me. Back in the 1960's and early 70's, when GAB reigned supreme in the independent adjusting business, especially before the big antitrust case, there was an attempt by a GAB employee to begin a union. My sources tell me that he came very close. Does anyone remember the guys name? I need some old timers to think back. I'd like to talk to this man and see if he is willing to help us organize this. I'm going to need a lot of help, but my determination is growing stronger by the day.
Union Cat Adjuster |
Roy Cupps
| | Posted on Saturday, December 11, 1999 - 2:49 pm: | |
From: Union Cat Adjuster
Email: unioncatadjuster@hotmail.com
Date: 01 Dec 1999
Time: 08:44 AM
Bulletin
Ok Guys and Gals ..............here is the proof of what I have been telling you about unionization. I know full well that the only argument that would ultimately work is the BOTTOM LINE. Well, here is the bottom line, as reported today by the AP Sports News Wire:
The story is about the 21 year reign of Major League Baseball's, umpire union head, Richie Phillips. Here is the final paragraph of the newswire, being reported nationwide ......TODAY:
"When he took over, rookie umpires earned $17,500 and the most senior veterans made $40,000. This year, they made a minimum of $95,000 and up to $282,500, including postseason bonuses they all receive."
I can't think of a more appropriate article to post on here, because all you naysayers can just look for yourselves.
You don't think it's possible for cat adjusters to form a union, but I say WE CAN. You don't think that it will have an influence on our pay, but I say it WILL. You don't think anything is possible until you first try.
If you guys can't see how helping your bottom line is good, then you're right, you won't want to join the union, but if you're smart you will. The bottom line is what will determine the success of this, and I'd say an increase in pay of, let's see, $280,000 divided by $40,000, over 20 years ........Hmmmmmmm. Sounds kind of nice.
How much of an increase do you think we will ever see unorganized? How much have the old timers seen in 10 years, let alone 20? Be honest. How long will it take these jacka$$e$, like the head of the JUA in Florida to take us seriously? The answer is that without a union, they NEVER will. There are problems, of course, but we can do it, and we should.
This is not about me, this is about hard working people who need to be able to afford disability insurance, especially during the lean years, while doing a job that the public, and the insurance industry needs.
To all the naysayers I say ........your arguments are mere whispers among a growing crowd of smart dissent. If you are happy making a certain amount of money, then why not more? All the while, giving your fellow professionals more security. It's clear, and the writing is on the wall. If we don't make the dust, we shall be eating it. It's time for a change, it's time for the United Storm Adjusters.
Union Cat Adjuster |
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