As Anne Anastasi, CLTP begins to wrap up her term as ALTA President, she took a moment with PLTA to reflect on her journey along the way and share with us her plans for the future.

When asked what she viewed as the major accomplishments of her Presidential year, Anne spoke first about Title 101, a program designed to educate regulators about the title industry.  Anne was a driving force of the PLTA task force that created Title 101.  The program was developed in response to a request for education a Pennsylvania regulator made of Anne. That program was a resounding success, and led to a subsequent Pennsylvania program, Title 201.  Anne then brought the idea to the attention of ALTA and it has since been presented to 19 Departments of Insurance.  As a result, the NAIC has asked her to present and record the program in a webinar format, making it available to every state.  Anne says she will continue with that project even after her ALTA Presidency ends.

Throughout the conversation Anne mentioned several times the high regard with which PLTA is held throughout the country.  Several PLTA programs have sparked interest on the national level. PLTA’s Professional Designation program is the prototype program used by ALTA in the creation of the first national professional designation program.   “This is another way for title insurance agents and abstractors to stand out in our industry, and PLTA has had a successful designation program for many years.” In addition, she said, “PLTI is renowned for top-notch title education and was created by the leadership of PLTA, who saw the need for educating its own.”

As a Past President of PLTA, Anne has experienced first-hand the needs and struggles of the state land title association.  Recognizing that these challenges are not only felt in Pennsylvania, Anne has made it a priority in her Presidential year to increase ALTA’s liaison with the state associations.   “We need to work together to leverage our combined knowledge and experience for the betterment of our industry,” she said.

While the past year has been extremely busy and at times exhausting, Anne could not stress enough the return on the investment she has received as a result of her ALTA involvement.  Anne found herself surrounded by, “the most brilliant, passionate, and dedicated industry professionals” she has ever met. “These individuals encouraged me to become an officer of ALTA and the benefits I have received are priceless.  “My biggest client in 2011 came from a referral from an agent I met through ATLA who is not licensed to conduct business in Pennsylvania.  I have received all of her Pennsylvania work. This is business I would not have if it wasn’t for my involvement. I also receive phenomenal business practice ideas from some of the largest title agents in the country.” 

For these reasons and so many more, she strongly encourages agents to become involved – first in their state associations and then in ALTA. “True title professionals must join their trade associations. You don’t have a voice in your own survival if you don’t participate. Those agents who want to survive, grow, and be an effective part of the title industry need to join and get involved.” Anne stated. “Agents have to give back – this is our industry! Don’t sit back and let others determine the future of your business.”

“In many aspects, though, we have gone from being the underdog to the lead dog. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has asked for the opinions of ALTA to assist with the creation of the new GFE/TILA form.  The CFPB  acknowledged that the title agent ‘sees the confusion on the consumers’ faces’ and can offer valuable insight into creating a document that borrowers can clearly understand.  This is a tremendous compliment for our industry and a testimony to the ALTA task force who was praised for their efforts during the RESPA Reform.”

Anne admits that the industry is still facing some significant challenges. The role of the title insurance agent still remains a mystery in many real estate closings.  While Anne believes that perception is changing for the better, we cannot rest until our industry is as well known and respected as others involved in the real estate transaction.  “We need to stay in front of the decision makers, regulators, and those on Capital Hill,” she stressed. 

So, what is Anne going to do in October, when her term is over? “Meet my husband again and see how he’s doing,” she responded in laughter.  Anne knew the position was going to take time away from her family and business, but underestimated the magnitude of that impact.  However, while her presidency has been time consuming, it has also brought some of her fondest memories.  She has greatly enjoyed traveling the country, touring and meeting colleagues from each state.  And, remembering like it was yesterday, Anne’s eyes filled with tears as she shared the look on her husband and brother’s faces when she was sworn in as President of ALTA.  “My husband of little words turned to me with this overwhelming look of pride and said, ‘I’m so proud of you.’  My brother had the time of his life in San Diego and, not knowing then that we were going to lose him unexpectedly a week later, it meant the world to me to have him there.”

PLTA is very proud of one of its most successful members and equally grateful for her continuing efforts on behalf of an entire nation of title professionals.  A contingent from PLTA will be on hand to recognize the accomplishments of President Anne Anastasi at the ALTA convention in Charleston next month.

William (Bill) Corrigan, Esq., CLTP, recently joined Old Republic Title as Associate Counsel. In this role, he will assist agents and employees with underwriting questions on both commercial and residential transactions. He also will assist with regulatory compliance issues and in making educational presentations on behalf of the Company. Bill will work out of the Wayne, Pennsylvania office, and will report to Dwight Edwards, CLTP, Vice President and Pennsylvania State Manager.

With nearly 45 years of title industry experience, Bill got his start in the business as a Title Examiner. Over the years he has worked in a number of roles, including: Title Searcher, Title Officer, Senior Title Officer and Claims Counsel. Most recently, he served as General Counsel for another large underwriter.

“Bill has learned the business from the ground up and brings with him a wealth of industry knowledge,” stated Dwight Edwards. “This, coupled with his sharp legal eye and smart business acumen, make him an excellent addition to our underwriting team.”

After earning his Bachelors of Science degree in Management and Bachelors of Arts degree in Political Science from Rutgers University, Bill went on to receive his Juris Doctorate from the Delaware Law School. He is admitted to both the Pennsylvania and New Jersey Bars.

A longtime advocate for local title associations, Bill has served as both the Past President of the Pennsylvania Land Title Association (PLTA) and the Past Chairman of the Pennsylvania Land Title Institute, where he continues to be an active member of the Board. Bill also is the current Chair of the PLTA Convention Committee.

To contact Bill directly, please call (800) 842-2080 or email him at wcorrigan@oldrepublictitle.com.

When Diane Laskowski answered a want ad for a “busy but happy office” more than ten years ago, she had no idea of the world she was entering.  She also could not have known that the office in question would become so dependent on her meticulous, dedicated work.

Diane is the Director of Finance for PLTA and PLTI. When she started her job in 2001 PLTA and PLTI were hiring a bookkeeper for the first time.  Prior to that point, bookkeeping duties were shared by employees, but that was a far less than successful situation.  Diane was well-suited to both the office and the ever-increasing responsibilities of her job.  During the past ten years she has not stopped learning, both on the job and in school.   She has attained an Associate’s degree and is well on her way to a Bachelor’s degree in Business.   Over this entire time she has maintained a 4.0 average, while also managing a job and a busy family life with her husband, Stan and children Ginny and Kyle.

The PLTA/PLTI office runs smoothly in large part due to Diane’s efforts.  Executive Committee and Board members are accustomed to receiving comprehensive and accurate financial reports from her.  What most do not see is the amount of work she puts into maintaining the accounts that produce those reports.  Her quiet competency has spoiled all of us!  In addition, she is always eager to help with PLTI seminars or anything else that needs doing.

We are so grateful for Diane’s talent, enthusiasm and loyalty.  She is a valued part of the
PLTA and PLTI team.  So the next time you see her at a PLTI seminar or in the PLTA office, make sure you congratulate her and thank her for her decade of service!

PLTI  Title Agent Expo

The PLTI Title Agent Expo was held on March 24, 2011 at the Radisson Convention Center in Camp Hill, PA.  Over 100 attendees gathered for a full day of education and networking.  Sponsors of this popular event were: Signature Information Solutions, LLC, reQuire, LLC, TSS Software Corporation, Western Technologies Group, LLC, Priority Search Services, LLC and The State Capital Title and Abstract Co.

The morning session included four wonderful speakers:

The view from DC – a Federal Update -  Anne Anastasi, CLTP, President, ALTA, Genesis Abstract (President of the American Land Title Association)

The Perspective from Harrisburg - Tony Crisci, Esq., Crisci Associates (PLTA’s Legislative Counsel)

 New ALTA Survey Standards for 2011 - Paul Trefz, CLTP, First American Title Ins. Co.

 Oil and Gas Leases and Why they Matter to the Title Agent - Richard Druby, Esq., Nestico, Druby & Hildabrand PC 

The afternoon session included two interesting speakers on topics that are always of interest to those in the industry:

Title Claims – The Majority Really are Preventable - Edward Hayes, Esq., Fox Rothschild LLP 

Current Schemes in Mortgage Fraud - David Clark, Special Agent, FBI

 PLTA South Central Chapter Meeting

Donna Moyer, Chair of the South Central Chapter of PLTA, reports that a breakfast meeting of the Chapter was held on Wednesday, April 13, 2011 with a terrific crowd of 50.   Brian Zulli, Esq., of Homesale Settlement Services covered a range of topics that included Separation and Divorce and Inheritance Taxes.

Chapter board members were elected at that meeting for the 2011-2012 year.  Donna Moyer will continue as Chairperson; Stacey Trimmer will continue as Vice Chair; Jen Dennison will continue as Treasurer; and Patti Connell will be the new Secretary of the Chapter.

On June 12, 2010 during the annual PLTA convention, the slate of elected officers of PLTA took their oaths of office. 

Diana Sabol, CLTP of First American Title Insurance Company in King of Prussia, PA became the 89th President of the Pennsylvania Land Title Association

Philip S. Janny, CLTP of the Plunkett -Graver law firm in Allentown, PA became the Vice-President

Jan K. Hogan of Fidelity National Title Insurance Company in Blue Bell, PA became the Treasurer

Charlene Ostroski, CLTP of Long and Foster Settlement Services in Devon, PA became the Secretary

In addition, the membership voted to approve the following Committee Chairpersons:

Agents Committee                                            Christopher Ritchie, ALTP of Eagle School Abstract, Wayne, PA

Convention Committee                                  Scott Froggatt, ALTP of Robert Chalphin Associates, Southampton, PA

Education Committee                                     Nanci K. Reese, CLTP of Old Republic National Title Insurance Company, Wayne, PA

Finance Committee                                          Dallys Novarina, CLTP of Dallys Associates, Blue Bell, PA

Legislative & Jud. Committee                      Laura Fox, Esq., CLTP of Fidelity National Title Insurance Company, Philadelphia, PA

Liaison Committee                                           William Drobins of Old Republic National Title Insurance Company, Wayne, PA

Membership Committee                                Francine Wirsching, ALTP of Community First Abstract, Blue Bell, PA

Planning Committee                                        Charles Proctor, Esq., CLTP of Proctor, Lindsay & Dixon law firm, Chadds Ford, PA

Professional Designation Committee        Dwight E. Edwards, Esq., CLTP of Old Republic National Title Insurance Company, Wayne, PA

Public Records Committee                           Frank McGovern, Esq., ALTP of Drexel Hill, PA

Public Relations Committee                         Sue Morgan of Old Republic National Title Insurance Company, Wayne, PA

Technology Committee                                  Dave Wirsching of Why About Marketing, Blue Bell, PA

Title Issues Committee                                   Karen Clarkson of Real Estate Settlement Team  LLC, Pen Argyl, PA

The new PLTA Officers, Committee and Chapter Chairs will have an organizational meeting on Tuesday, July 27, 2010 at 10:00 am at the PLTA offices in King of Prussia.

Loxley’s Restaurant in Lancaster, PA was the site of the installation of the Officers of the South Central Chapter of PLTA.  On June 17, 2010 PLTA President Diana Sabol, CLTP conducted the ceremony and administered the oath of office to the Chapter leaders.

Donna Moyer, of Security Title Guarantee Corp. in Lancaster is the Chapter Chairperson.

 Stacey Trimmer, of Community Settlement LLC in York is the Chapter Vice-Chairperson.

Melissa C. Miller of Real Estate Investment Protection Agency in York is the Chapter Secretary.

Jen Dennison of United One Resources in Carlisle is the Chapter Treasurer. 

The South Central Chapter of PLTA offers frequent opportunities for its members to meet and be updated on current issues facing the title industry.  Chair Donna Moyer encourages all interested PLTA members to check the PLTA website on a regular basis for information about those meetings.  Donna also invites anyone interested in becoming a member of the South Central Chapter to contact her at dmoyer@esecuritytitle.com.

 One of the giants in Pennsylvania land title insurance has passed away.  Albert E. Pentecost died on May 2, 2010 at the age of 88 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania after battling Parkinson’s disease for many years.

 After a successful career at Title Insurance Company of Pennsylvania (TICP) where he became its corporate counsel in 1955 and later its Executive Vice President and Secretary, Mr. Pentecost led the PLTA as its Executive Vice President from June 1984 to April 1990.  Active in PLTA for many years, he served as its president in 1975-1976.  After his retirement as PLTA’s EVP, the Executive Committee inaugurated the Albert E. Pentecost Service Award to be given for outstanding service to the association, and presented the first award to him in a surprise ceremony at the PLTA convention in 1990.  This award continues to be given annually in his honor to a person who has dedicated themselves to the betterment of the association and the title industry.

 Mr. Pentecost put an indelible stamp on the PLTA.  His friend and colleague, William “Bill” Rice, credited Mr. Pentecost with being the first to encourage agent membership and participation in PLTA committees, directly leading to Bill’s own stint as the first agent president of PLTA in 1994 and to agents’ prominent presence in the current membership and leadership.

 Another former PLTA president, Mark Korman, remembered Al Pentecost as an invaluable mentor to him.  Mark said,  “For some reason Al took a special interest in me and offered me lots of opportunity that led to my rise as president of the PLTA.  In return he expected my dedication to whatever task I was assigned.  He raised the standard of what I thought was a good job.  He instilled in me a sense of pride in the ethics with which we as title professionals work.  Not just honesty and integrity but a sense of commitment to getting the deal done… I will always be appreciative of having known Al Pentecost, for I am a better title professional because of his influence.”

Katherine McKay, former PLTA Executive Vice President, also remembered Mr. Pentecost with great respect.  She said, “ He was truly a gentleman, quietly reserved, always gracious, so knowledgeable.  He was a great help to me when I first took on the PLTA and truly thought I had bitten off more than I could chew.  His advice was invaluable, and I will never forget his kindness and help to me in those first days and many times after.  He gave me a great sense of the importance of serving the membership in as many ways as possible. “

 Not many knew that out of the office, Mr. Pentecost was an avid photographer who had a home gallery of personally developed scenic photographs.  He loved music and was an accomplished cello player.  He was also a devoted husband for 54 years to his wife, Karla, who had serious health problems, and saw to her care for many years.  Mrs. Pentecost passed away in 2001.  The couple had no children but reveled in their 6 nephews, 4 nieces and 23 grand nephews and nieces.

At his retirement, Mr. Pentecost said, “It is with real regret that we have not accomplished more in the past years, but if I left any legacy at all, I trust that in some way the Association is stronger and the industry better for my having been involved.”  The industry and the Association is indeed better for having had Mr. Pentecost as one of its most visionary leaders.   As those who knew him recalled, he was a true titleman and a gracious and giving man who persevered through many adversities in his life to give his best to an industry and association he loved.  He will be sorely missed.

In the event you would like to send a remembrance in Al’s name, the family has requested that it be sent to the Mission Fund, Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2151 Oregon Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601

Sharon Reimold, President of Yorktowne Settlement Co. celebrates 20 years in business.  Providing exceptional customer service and maintaining high business ethics remain the focus of her business.  For additional information about Yorktowne Settlement please visit their website at www.yorktownesettlement.com.

Congratulations Yorktowne!

From left to right: Pam Getner, Sharon Reimold, Deb Brickner, and Lea Zalowski

Paul Trefz, Vice President and Senior Underwriter in First American’s King of Prussia, Pennsylvania office, has been elevated to Regional Underwriter overseeing Pennsylvania, Delaware and West Virginia.  He has been in the title industry for over 35 years; the last 17 years with First American.

A long-time member of the Association of Title Examiners, Paul has served as the instructor for the Pennsylvania Land Title Institute’s evening school and as Chairman of the Education Committee of the Pennsylvania Land Title Association (PLTA).

Paul brings to his new position the following designations: Certified Land Title Professional (CLTP) from the Pennsylvania Land Title Association and Senior Certified Title Examiner from the Association of Title Examiners.

Paul can be reached at 610-265-8440, ext. 148 or ptrefz@firstam.com.

Tom Blair, Underwriting Counsel in First American’s King of Prussia, Pennsylvania office, has been promoted to Pennsylvania State Counsel. 

Tom, an active participant in title insurance seminars, currently serves on the Legislative and Judicial Committee of the Pennsylvania Land Title Association.  A native of Missouri, Tom graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Southeast Missouri State University and earned his law degree in 1992 from the University of Missouri – Columbia.  Prior to joining First American in 2002, he was in private practice for ten years (six in Missouri and four in Pennsylvania).

Tom can be reached at 610-265-8440, ext. 549, or tblair@firstam.com.