G100 Day on the Hill

My Experience with the Big I NY G100

by: Yuliya Karpov, Commercial Sales Executive at NBT Insurance Agency


On January 21, I had the incredible opportunity to join the Big I NY G100 advocacy event in Albany, and it was an experience I won't soon forget. As part of the Central New York cohort, I joined insurance professionals from across the state to meet with legislators and share how the current insurance market is impacting New Yorkers.

The day was an eye-opening learning experience, offering a firsthand look at the legislative process and an opportunity to advocate for the needs of our customers and communities. Alongside my colleagues—Jacquie Kelly Kaden of RLK General Insurance Agency, Ashley Franczak from USI, and Larissa Hanslmaier from NYCM—we had the privilege of meeting with representatives from State Senator Chris Ryan's and Senator Pam Helming's offices.

In these meetings, we shared stories of how consumers are grappling with challenges in the current insurance market. We emphasized the need for New York State to take steps to stabilize the market and preserve access to vital insurance solutions. Our goal was clear: to ensure legislators understood the real-life impact of public policies on the people we serve every day.

What stood out most was the responsiveness of the lawmakers. They listened intently as we described the challenges facing policyholders, as well as our commitment to advocating for our customers and the industry. I felt our presence and dedication resonated deeply with them, laying the groundwork for ongoing dialogue on key issues.

In addition to the advocacy work, I thoroughly enjoyed witnessing the energy of an Albany session day. From the bustling halls of the Capitol to the sense of purpose shared by everyone present, the experience was inspiring. I also loved connecting with my assemblymember, Brian D. Miller, who represents the 122nd District. It was wonderful to see familiar faces and build stronger relationships with those shaping our state's policies.

One of the best parts of the day was learning from my colleagues in the industry. Each brought unique insights and perspectives that enriched our conversations with lawmakers. Together, we demonstrated how collaboration across agencies and roles can create a unified voice advocating for positive change.

As I reflect on the day, I'm proud to have been part of such important work. The Big I NY G100 experience reaffirmed my belief in the power of advocacy and the importance of staying engaged in public policy conversations. I look forward to continuing this work and contributing to a stable, accessible insurance market for all New Yorkers.

NextGen CNY CE Trivia

NEXTGEN CNY CE TRIVIA

Have fun while earning CE credit!

Thursday, October 9th | Location TBD

NextGen CNY members and guests came together for a fun evening that mixed insurance trivia, great food, drinks, and karaoke. The event offered a chance to connect with peers, enjoy some friendly competition, and even earn 1 CE credit toward license renewal.

Tim Dodge served as the CE trivia host, guiding participants through insurance-themed questions that tested both knowledge and quick thinking. The top team took home a prize and bragging rights for the night.

After the trivia wrapped up, attendees kept the good vibes going with karaoke—some stepping up to the mic, others cheering from the crowd. It was an engaging, energetic evening that combined professional development with plenty of laughs.

Thanks to everyone who joined us for making it a night to remember!

NextGen CNY Speed Networking

Snapshot & Connect — NextGen Recap

On Thursday, August 14 at Harvey’s Garden, NextGen CNY turned speed networking into an evening of bright energy and real conversations. Young insurance pros, agents and carrier reps, cycled through quick, friendly rounds, swapped stories and business cards, and walked away with fresh leads and new collaborators.

Between laughter and firm handshakes, attendees headed to a mini pro photo session and each left with three polished headshots, lightly retouched and delivered soon after for LinkedIn and agency sites. The night felt equal parts fun and productive — new connections made, momentum built, and photos that show it.

Big I CNY Golf Tournament 2025

Hot, hot, hot & a whole lot of fun

Monday, June 23rd  |  Timber Banks


Get ready for an awesome day of golf, networking, and some friendly Our annual day on the course wrapped up this past Monday with sunshine, camaraderie, and a dash of friendly rivalry. Players chose between a relaxed 9-Hole Golf Social to ease into the week or the full-tilt 18-Hole Tournament packed with on-course contests and plenty of bragging rights.

Winners included:

Morning Shotgun – Longest Drive Hole #6: AJ Trendell
Afternoon Shotgun – Longest Drive Hole #14 (Men): Zachary Ottman
Afternoon Shotgun – Longest Drive Hole #14 (Women): Jenn Howse
Afternoon Shotgun – Closest to the Pin Hole #16: Jeff Mirabito
1st Place Team (-15): Matt Briggs, Brett Bushinger, Zach Ottman, and Todd Smith
2nd Place Team (-14): Robert Murrer, Jeff Newton, Trevor Wakefield, and Jeff Miller

Before the afternoon tournament began, we gathered to formally install the Big I CNY officers and directors for the 2025–2026 term. Off the fairways, everyone caught up over lunch, cold drinks, and a deck-side reception, followed by dinner and awards.

By teeing it up, participants once again supported local charities and the Project InVEST Robert Maher Memorial Scholarship Fund, helping Central New York students pursue insurance-industry studies.

Thank you to all the golfers and attendees who made Monday’s event a success both on the scorecard and in the community!

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Thank you to all of our sponsors for helping make this event possible!

NextGen Shot Clock Social

Hoops, Hospitality & High-Impact Training!

Thursday, March 25, 2025 | Seventy young insurance agents and company representatives came together for an unforgettable evening of professional growth, networking, and basketball excitement. The night kicked off with an engaging training session led by Jody Frawley of Dale Carnegie, where attendees learned how to turn customers into true champions for their businesses.

From there, the energy shifted courtside as everyone participated in the March Madness action, grabbed some classic bar-favorite foods, and took advantage of plenty of opportunities to connect with industry peers. Adding to the excitement, attendees filled out tournament brackets, with the winner scoring a $250 prize and an additional $250 donation made in their name to Eric Devendorf’s foundation (The ED23 Foundation)—a win-win both on and off the court!

It was a slam-dunk event that combined learning, leadership, and a little friendly competition, proving that success in business, much like basketball, is all about strategy, teamwork, and making the right plays.

Big I CNY Holiday Party 2025

Pacifier donations to Birthright of Syracuse being dropped off by board director, Jacquie Kaden, and executive director, Kathy Lawler.

Ringing in the new year with Big I CNY

On Wednesday, January 8th, Big I CNY members gathered at Coleman’s to celebrate the season and reconnect with peers. The event was filled with delicious food, great drinks, and lively conversation among some of the best insurance professionals in the state.

Beyond the festivities, attendees embraced the spirit of giving by supporting St. Lucy’s Church in Syracuse. Members brought much-needed donations, including pacifiers, winter hats, gloves, scarves, toiletries, and non-perishable food items. Financial contributions were also collected, with cash and checks made out to St. Lucy’s Bread of Life. In addition, attendees also donated 100+ pacifiers to Birthright of Syracuse. If you'd like to learn more about Birthright of Syracuse or donate new/gently used baby items, please click here.

This year’s holiday party was not only a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the season with colleagues but also a meaningful way to give back to the local community. Big I CNY extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to this worthwhile cause.

Big I CNY Check Reception

Supporting CNY Local Charities

Big I CNY board members had the pleasure of awarding 20 local charities a check for $1,000 each at their annual check reception, as selected by the members. This is a record amount Big I CNY has handed out. Thank you to the golfers and sponsors for the 2024 golf tournament for this incredible act of generosity. The charities include:

  • Brady Faith Center

  • Building Men

  • Central Association for Blind & Visually Impaired

  • Clear Path for Veterans

  • CNY Bear Team

  • David's Refuge

  • Erin's Angels

  • First Tee Charity

  • Food Bank of CNY

  • Francis House

  • Honor Flight

  • Hugs for Hope

  • In My Father's Kitchen

  • Joseph's House

  • Meals on Wheels

  • Noah's Bags

  • On Point for College

  • Road to Emmaus Ministry

  • Sleep in Heavenly Peace

  • YMCA

Big I CNY Legislative Breakfast 2024

Legislative Breakfast Brings Industry Challenges to the Table

Big I CNY recently hosted a Legislative Breakfast that brought together Central New York board members, local lawmakers, and our very own AVP of Government Relations, Travis Wattie. Over coffee and conversation, the group tackled some pressing topics facing the insurance industry today.

Travis set the stage by discussing:

  • The increasingly tricky terrain of New York’s insurance market.

  • The harmful impacts of fraud and legal system abuse.

  • Opportunities for modernizing the industry to better serve agents and consumers.

He also thanked lawmakers for their quick action on Supplemental Spousal Liability reforms and highlighted the need to revisit the sunset of the photo inspection victory in 2027. Most importantly, Travis reminded everyone that in today’s volatile market, any new legislation must be carefully crafted to avoid further disruption.

Lawmakers chimed in with their perspectives, sharing:

  • Appreciation for the invaluable work independent agents do daily and Big I New York's efforts to educate legislators.

  • Personal stories about rising premiums and limited access to vital insurance products.

  • A clear message: they need to hear from us to understand and address the challenges facing the marketplace.

This breakfast was more than just a meal—it was a chance to build connections, share insights, and ensure our voices are heard at the Capitol. Here's to keeping the conversation going!

NextGen CNY Shop 'Til You Drop for Charity

‘tis the season of giving: a fun evening of networking and shopping for charity

The holiday season kicked off with a bang as NextGen CNY hosted its annual Shop ‘Til You Drop charity event! Over 30 independent insurance agents and company representatives donned their comfiest shopping shoes and biggest holiday smiles to support not one, not two, but THREE amazing causes.

Armed with shopping carts and holiday cheer, participants shopped for items benefiting Birthright of Syracuse, Golisano Children’s Hospital, and the Rescue Mission’s Runaway and Homeless Youth Shelter. From toys and clothes to much-needed essentials, the generosity on display was enough to make even Santa jealous.

It wasn’t just about giving back, though—the event buzzed with festive fun, from friendly chatter to spreading holiday magic together. Huge thanks to everyone who joined us to make this season brighter for those in need. Our hearts (and shopping bags) are full! 🎁🎄

NextGen CE Trivia & Karaoke

A Fun Night of CE Trivia & Karaoke

Twelve teams of insurance agents, company representatives, industry friends, and Le Moyne College insurance students battled it out for bragging rights at NextGen CNY's annual CE Trivia & Karaoke event.

After ten rounds– hosted by Big I NY's Tim Dodge– three teams were tied. No one answered the tie-breaker correctly, so of course NextGen CNY determined a sing-off was needed. Three amazing performances but in the end Holly Martin, Ali Lalonde, Melissa Frawley, Robyn Barrette, and John DeNicola were crowned champs by roaring applause. They took home the coveted trophies and have bragging rights... until next year's event.

Everyone enjoyed networking, food, and earning 1 CE. Many also donated non-perishable items to support NextGen NY's statewide food drive. The donated items will benefit the Food Bank of CNY.


Meet Other Young Insurance Pros & Smile for the Camera

A total of 55 agents brought great energy to another fabulous networking event, leaving with three new headshots and plenty of new connections. Dozens of school supplies were donated to be given to Mary Nelson Youth Center's annual back-to-school drive.

Special thank you to all our sponsors for this event! This wouldn’t be possible without you all.

Rain or Shine, A Great Day on the Greens

Golfers teed off at Timber Banks in Baldwinsville on June 24th to raise money for local charities

For the first time ever, Big I CNY held a 9-Hole Golf Social for new-to-the sport and recreational golfers. Six teams braved the sideways rain to play golf, help each other learn the game, and have fun.

More than 120 golfers participated in the 18-hole tournament. The rain dried up and the sun came out for a warm day of play. Golfers enjoyed several contests to show off their skills:

Mike Woodham won Closest to the Pin at 4' 1 1/4"

Kasey Vaughan had the Longest Drive for the women

Zak Ottman took the Longest Drive for men

David Wicker won the 50/50 Tee Shot

Paul Staring, Bill Gallagher, Josh Watkins, and Dan Connors placed second with a score of 61 (11 under par).

The first place team is Matt Briggs, Zak Ottman, Brett Bushinger, and Annalaura Werner with a score of 56 (16 under par).

Golfers enjoyed lunch, a social reception, and a chicken and steak dinner. Proceeds from the tournament and the raffles benefit local charities. Big I CNY wants to support your favorite charities.

Please email Allison Just at ajust@biginy.org with the name of your favorite local charity to be considered.

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NextGen Shot Clock Social 2024

Talk about team spirit!

More than 60 agents and company representatives enjoyed the second annual Shot Clock Social at Press Room Pub on March 21st. They enjoyed cheering on their favorite basketball team, comparing brackets, and making new business relationships. Herb Escher from Dale Carnegie Training led the group in an interactive training exercise on networking and building connections. Everyone had a chance to fill out a bracket to win $250 cash and have a $250 donation made in their name to ED23HOOPS, a foundation started by former SU basketball star Eric Devendorf.

Celebrating the New Year With Friends

More than 100 agents and company reps celebrated the new year at Coleman’s on Thursday, January 11th. Everyone enjoyed great conversations, meeting new business partners, food, and drink. As is tradition, attendees donated bags of new winter hats, gloves, scarves, and other apparel to St. Lucy’s Church. The church then distributes the clothing to families in need. More than $160 in financial donations were also also collected.

Thank you to the Syracuse CPCU Society Chapter for co-sponsoring this fun event!

Agent Advocacy Works

Agents, company representatives, and state lawmakers came together on Friday, December 1st to discuss the important issues facing our industry. At this year’s annual Big I CNY Legislative Breakfast, Big I NY’s Scott Hobson, AVP of Government Relations, recapped our legislative victories (the photo inspection bill!) and prepped agents on the priority issues for 2024, including the unfair underwriting practices bill, excess lines modernization, and state of the NY insurance market.

The breakfast wrapped up with a champagne toast to celebrate the hard work everyone put into getting the photo inspection bill signed into law.

Advocacy is critical to our industry, and every voice matters. Find out how you can get involved.

Thank you to Syracuse CPCU for co-sponsoring!