PPL Media Room

The Green Light

“When the wind of change blows, some build walls, others build windmills.”

From the beginning, this company has been about windmills, not walls.  Walls are about separation; windmills are about innovation.  Here at Pre-Paid Legal Services, we helped create an industry 37 years ago and today the prepaid legal services industry continues to grow and expand.  I’m more confident than ever that as the wind of change comes, we will build windmills to harness the energy and the potential of our company.

Here is our Green Light:

Patti Ross/Ken Smith Report – Western Canada had another strong week with recruiting up 60 percent in British Columbia.  To keep up the momentum, a “March Madness” contest has been launched for the region.  For more details, contact Patti or Ken.  On March 19 Vancouver is hosting a major event with more than 250 tickets pre-sold for the event.  They appear to be on the right track.  The area has produced five directors in the past 60 days.  Based on the current activity, Patti is predicting that March will be one of the best overall months for the region.

Brooks Werkheiser Report – Brooks was in Tuscaloosa, Alabama on Tuesday night where he met Bobby Workman, a 70 something Weyerhaeuser retiree from Columbus, Mississippi, who is now building a Pre-Paid Legal Services business.  Brooks says he’s inspired by people like Mr. Workman.  So am I.  In other news, Huntsville, Alabama recruiting is up over the same period in 2009 and new briefings are beginning in Athens and Florence, Alabama.  On Thursday, Brooks was in Metairie, Louisiana for a meeting organized by Jeremy Roma.  Jerry then travelled to Jackson, Mississippi for a Super Saturday and training event.  Brooks says Otis Clark, Mark Alexander and Jerome Jackson are all helping to grow the Jackson market.  For the coming week, Brooks expects to be in Mobile, Alabama; Hattiesburg, Mississippi; and Hammond and Shreveport, Louisiana.

Ross/Cindy Chantrel Report – Ross offered up a bit of history in his report.  Writing on Saturday, March 6, 2010, he notes that he signed up as an associate on March 6, 1996, 14 years ago to the day.  On Saturday, Ross was also the guest speaker at the Super Saturday in St. Louis, hosted by Tom Sappington.  Ross credits Tom with not only filling the room, but with generating a base of 63 percent new associates and a roster of guests, all of whom signed up after the event.  The program was enhanced by a “call in” by Cleve Pickens and a special “certificate of achievement” recognition (designed by Tom) that included the “Harland Stonecipher Award,” given to Henri Mooy.  For the coming week, Alan Roman will lead a group training in St. Louis and Tracy Harrop will conduct a Missouri license training in Kansas City.

Rob/Charlene MacKenzie Report – Ontario and Manitoba are working hard to top their results from last month that include recruiting increases of 67 percent and 127 percent respectively.  This past week, ED Brad Roberts (of Ontario) participated in a successful Super Saturday in Winnipeg, Manitoba.  Plans are underway for the Toronto Super Saturday on March 12 and 13, featuring Darnell Self and Michael Humes.  There is also a Group School scheduled for March 19 and 20 and that same weekend Rob and Charlene will be guest speakers at the Super Saturday in Detroit, Michigan.

Linda/Bill Carter Report – New Mexico is once again in the top five (per capita) and the market just completed a strong week with good attendance at the regular business briefings and luncheon events.  Southern New Mexico held two Thursday night meetings and successful tool blitzes in three communities.  Northwest New Mexico held a week-long PBR blitz and Central New Mexico has excellent attendance at weekly events, including the new luncheon event in Santa Fe.

Ron/Norma Crutcher Report – On Friday, Cincinnati hosted the “Women of Justice” event, featuring Carol Dickens and other women leaders of Pre-Paid Legal Services.  This was followed by an “awesome” Super Saturday event.  Ron says Ohio is focused on retention, so who better to light the fire than Melanie Lawson.  More on this soon.

Kevin Montville Report – The Manchester business briefing of last week was well attended and the new business briefing in Portsmouth is extending the reach of Pre-Paid Legal Services in the New Hampshire market.  Kevin says the recent five-day power outage (affecting an estimated 200,000 individuals) can help focus attention on the business opportunity offered by Pre-Paid Legal Services.

Mark Michaud Report – More than 30 associates from Maine drove to the event in Connecticut.  Mark describes it as an “inoculation of excitement that we all needed to hear.”  He goes on to say, “Sometimes when we are in the business for an extended period, we may forget the importance of the cause behind our actions: Justice for All.”  If the Connecticut event helped re-ignite that recollection, it was well worth it.

In contemplating the announcement we made this past week, I’m reminded of something one of our great American forefathers said.  No less an architect of American ideals than Thomas Jefferson said, “I am captivated more by dreams of the future than by the history of the past.” 

Here at Pre-Paid Legal Services, we have a great past, and I believe an even greater future.

Cordially,

Harland C. Stonecipher

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ABOUT THE GREEN LIGHT:  The Green Light is a weekly showcase of activity as reported to the CEO of Pre-Paid Legal by successful associates across the United States and Canada. Results vary and depend on skill, persistence, and a variety of factors. This report is for recognition, motivation, and informational purposes only.

Identity Theft’s Youngest Victims: Children and Teens

By Aleshia Altizer

Applying for that first credit card or opening that first checking account should be an exciting step for teens. But for some, this could be the moment when they discover that they’ve been victimized by identity theft. Children are susceptible because it is often years before they attempt to apply for credit, leaving the thief plenty of time to abuse their credit and vanish.

A story posted on MSN Money gives a sobering look at the impact of identity theft to our children.

The article tells about a 17-year-old from California who went in to open a checking and savings account at the bank only to discover his Social Security Number was under someone else’s name. The young man’s identity had been stolen years before when he was only 12. Now as a college graduate he has been “financially crippled” by the bad credit the thief left behind.

Pre-Paid Legal offers identity theft services for minor children through Safeguard for Minors^SM, an important service that parents or guardians can add-on to the Identity Theft Shield^SM. Safeguard offers valuable services for minor children that include monitoring, consultation and restoration services and other valuable benefits.

Pre-Paid Legal Makes Headlines in U.S. Chamber of Commerce Magazine

The story of Pre-Paid Legal Founder and CEO Harland Stonecipher and history of the company are featured in the “Dreamers and Doers” section of the March 2010 edition of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s monthly magazine “Free Enterprise” distributed to chamber members across the country. Read the story here.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce represents more than 3 million businesses of all shapes and sizes, in addition to state and local chamber and industry associations.
(Reprinted by permission, uschamber.com, March 2010. Copyright © 2010, U.S. Chamber of Commerce)

The Green Light

Robert Heller, the British management writer got it right when he said, “Entrepreneurs have no frontier other than their own ambition.”  It’s an encouraging thought. . . as well as a challenging one.  Everyday we decide how far into the frontier of success we want to travel, but it is ambition and hard work that pays for the ticket.

Here are some ticket holders from last week: 

Rob/Charlene MacKenzie Report – Ontario and Manitoba finished February on a strong note with membership up 67 percent and recruiting up 127 percent over of the same period last year.  This past Friday there was an excellent business owners legal solutions plan (BOLSP) training meeting conducted by Bob and Annice Bale.  On Saturday, Toronto held its APT with 220 attendees on hand to hear Teresa Woolard; Susan Mumford from provider law firm, Mills & Mills; and two representatives from Kroll.  Upcoming in March, RM Brad Roberts will participate in a Super Saturday in Winnipeg.  Also, Darnell Self and Michael Humes are scheduled to be in Toronto for an event and Super Saturday on March 12 and 13. There will also be a group school on March 19 and 20.

Mike Humes Report – Even with the record snowfall throughout the North East Region, production was up this past week throughout the market, Mike reports.  In Connecticut, recruiting is up 21 percent and production is up 20 percent for this past week compared to last year.  Expect added momentum this week with a briefing and training on Thursday, featuring Darnell Self, and then the New Haven event this weekend (in which I will participate).  New York activity is up 61 percent and this will be enhanced by Dave Savula’s appearance in NYC on Thursday.  In Pennsylvania, activity is up by 12 percent and Pittsburgh will host a private business reception blitz on Saturday and Sunday of this week.  In New Jersey, recruiting is up 22 percent.  In Washington, D.C., membership production is up 23 percent over the same period last year.

Patti Ross/Ken Smith Report – Patti says the APT in British Columbia on Saturday was “superb,” in great part due to the excellent training by Katie Huff of Lolo, Montana.  The momentum is strong throughout British Columbia and Alberta.  During the last week of February, Alberta production was up 314 percent and recruiting was up 350 percent over the same period in 2009.  The numbers for British Columbia are even stronger with production up 328 percent and recruiting up an amazing 900 percent over last year.  On the horizon, there will be a provider law firm open house in Vancouver the third week of March.

Brooks Werkheiser Report – Brooks says Alabama’s recruiting numbers are showing a significant increase in 2010 compared to 2009, in part because of the recent Alabama blitz.  Over in Louisiana, Baton Rouge held an excellent APT on Saturday with presentations by Wilburn Smith and provider law firm attorneys Bill deLaunay and Catherine Brame of Provosty, Sadler, deLaunay, Fiorenza & Sobel.  This week, Brooks will be in Tuscaloosa, Alabama for a Tuesday night event; in New Orleans, Louisiana on Thursday; and in Jackson, Mississippi for a Super Saturday.

Keith/Carol Dickens Report – The APTs in both Indiana and Kentucky were well attended and executed events. The Elkhart, Indiana event was hosted by Rosemary Blair and it included participation by provider law firm, O’Koon Hintermeister, PLLC.  Indiana also held a Super Saturday this past week with Todd Cahill of Temecula, California.  In Louisville, Kentucky, Bill and Annette Hamilton of Dillon, South Carolina led the APT and they also offered a financial training workshop for participants.

Ross/Cindy Chantrel Report – Last week was active in Mo-Kan.  There was a special training event in Wichita while Kansas City hosted an APT and CDLP training.  Thomas Owens led the APT event with assistance from Alan Roman on the Identity Theft membership.  Mike Riling of provider law firm, Riling, Burkhead & Nitcher discussed the law firm and its services to members.  This coming week, Ross and his team are working on the start-up of a new meeting in Columbia, Missouri.

Hal/Susan Faresh Report – Hal congratulates CMC Jeff Stewart of Lynwood, Washington for creating the “model” PPL meeting.  While Lynwood is a small town, Hal says that Jeff conducts his meetings with the energy and enthusiasm that rivals large PPL events.  This past week, Hal was in Sacramento and the San Francisco area.  This week, he will be in Oregon and northern California for several briefings and events.

Ron/Norma Crutcher Report – This past Saturday, approximately 30 associates participated in a special Player’s Club breakfast and team building event.  The statewide conference call is scheduled for Wednesday, March 3 and then on Friday, March 5, there will be a “Women of Justice” event in Cincinnati, featuring Carol Dickens, followed by a Super Saturday event.

Jack Bufkin Report – Tennessee had a “fantastic” APT this past week, which was conducted by GVP Michele Schulman and that featured Lorna Rasmussen of Atlanta, Georgia.  Jack says Lorna provided a “phenomenal” program.  The activity in the state is strong with the Nashville area up almost 60 percent in recruiting for February and Chattanooga/Knoxville up more than 20 percent.  For the coming week, Jack will do programs in Knoxville on Tuesday, Memphis on Wednesday and in Chattanooga the following week. 

That’s another week of activity and a good finish for February.  Now we an opportunity for an even greater frontier in the month of March. I hope you’re on board. 

Cordially,

Harland C. Stonecipher

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ABOUT THE GREEN LIGHT:  The Green Light is a weekly showcase of activity as reported to the CEO of Pre-Paid Legal by successful associates across the United States and Canada. Results vary and depend on skill, persistence, and a variety of factors. This report is for recognition, motivation, and informational purposes only.

Medical Identity Theft on the Rise

By Aleshia Altizer

Imagine finding out that someone has used your identity to get more than $100,000 worth of medical treatment. Imagine finding out there’s incorrect information in your medical file like the wrong medical history, blood type and allergies. The Wall Street Journal recently posted an article on the growing prevalence of medical identity theft and the impact it has on its victims.

As more and more medical records become electronic, the information becomes easier for thieves to steal. Unfortunately, many don’t realize an identity theft has occurred until their medical records have been distorted and medical bills ran up.

The impact can be very serious if personal medical records are altered with the wrong medical history, blood type and allergies. The article says that consumers could also exhaust their lifetime coverage or be considered uninsurable, if their insurance has been used by someone else.

It’s important to take proactive measures to safeguard your personal information. Pre-Paid Legal’s Identity Theft Shield^SM can help.

Pre-Paid Legal Services Launches Seventh Year of Advanced Product Training

News Release

Quarterly Training Program Offers Associates Road Map to Success
ADA, Okla., Feb. 26, 2010 - On Saturday, Feb. 27, Pre-Paid Legal Services, Inc. (NYSE: PPD) will complete the first quarter 2010 program of Advanced Product Training (APT), an initiative designed to help PPD associates (the external sales organization) succeed in marketing PPD's legal service product offerings to individuals, employee groups and small business owners throughout the U.S. and four provinces of Canada...read the news release here.

Pre-registration for Oklahoma City ends March 2

Have you registered for one of the biggest Pre-Paid Legal events of the year?

If not, you have until Tuesday, March 1, to call Marketing Services at (580) 436-7424, press option 1, and pre-register for the annual Oklahoma City International Convention.

The registration ends at 7 p.m. CST via phone, or you can pre-register online through “Associates Only” until midnight the same day.

Pre-registration means a lower fee, as well as meeting one of the requirements for attending the Black and Gold Banquet (associates must have counters in March to Executive Director, qualify in April and be pre-registered for the convention).

Packets with vital conference information will be prepared and mailed shortly after this deadline, so it is important that your name be on the list. Convention is April 8-10 in downtown Oklahoma City.

The Green Light

This past Saturday 40 metropolitan markets throughout the U.S. and parts of Canada held Advance Product Training (APT) events.  Since the official launching of the APT in 2004, we have held Advanced Product Training on a quarterly basis to help our associates understand the company, its products and to help them succeed as associates.  According to Keith Davis, our manager for Group Marketing, on average 6000 to 7,000 associates attend these quarterly events.  For all who attended the events and for those who helped organize and facilitate the activities, I thank you for your commitment to success.

Here’s more about these and other events of the week:

Patti Ross/Ken Smith Report – With the Winter Olympics now underway in Vancouver, it’s not surprising that winning the gold is in the air in Western Canada.  This past weekend, Patti was in Edmonton, Alberta for an APT hosted at a new facility.  CMC Wayne Wald has organized a contest for February and March.  The associate who converts the greatest number of guests to associates will win a trip for two to Cancun, Mexico.  It appears to be working since production is up 63 percent and recruiting up 300 percent for the past week compared to one year ago.  British Columbia is also heating up the ice with weekly production up 125 percent and recruiting up 250 percent over the same period in 2009.  This week, Katie Huff will be a special guest in Vancouver where she will participate in luncheons, business briefings and the APT.

Bill/Linda Carter Report – This past week, New Mexico was ranked number 2 in production (per capita) in the U.S.  This past Thursday, Tony Hughes was featured at an Albuquerque event that included approximately 150 attendees.  The APT on Saturday featured Joan Buckner, followed by a provider law firm open house at the New Mexico offices of Davis Miles, PLLC.

Brooks Werkheiser Report – On Tuesday night of last week, Huntsville, Alabama hosted Dave Savula for a well attended event that included a 50-50 ratio of guests and associates.  That same night, Brooks held a PBR in Clinton, Mississippi.  Then on Saturday in Biloxi, Beth Taylor hosted a “phenomenal” APT that included new members (Rod Nixon and Jacob Ray) of the Mississippi provider law firm.  Alabama also hosted a great APT that featured Jimmy Parrish (and a presentation still being discussed there).  In Arkansas, Debbie Mosley organized an APT that featured Larry and Mary King and Larry Abbott.  The Louisiana APT will be held this Saturday (due to the conflict with Mardi Gras).

Jim Harkema Report – This past week was active in Michigan.  Tony Petrill organized an APT event that featured Nick Serba and which included more than 300 attendees.  The weekend began with a Friday luncheon with 70 associates and guests attending, followed by a Q&A in the evening.  Plans are now underway for a “March Blitz,” including a Super Saturday on March 20 that will feature Rob and Charlene MacKenzie.

Ross/Cindy Chantrel Report – “The APT in St. Louis was fantastic,” Ross says.  I’m not surprised with guest speakers, Melanie Lawson and Dubail Judge, P.C. Attorney Greg May as guest speakers.  Alan Roman and Tom Sappington also provided presentations at the event.  In Kansas City, Dan Stacy held a small business certification class and Tracy Harrop help a Missouri license training class.  This week, Kansas City will host its APT with special guests Mike Riling of Kansas provider law firm, Riling, Burkhead & Nitcher.  Following the Saturday APT Alan Roman will hold a CDLP class.

Hal/Susan Faresh Report – Sacramento set a new attendance record with more than 250 participants at Saturday’s APT.  Hal sends out a special thank you to Mark Brown for a “fabulous job” at this event and the luncheon program on Friday.  That’s high praise coming from Hal (and the California market).  Consider: since Hal was appointed the RVP in the region, northern California has grown from 3 weekly events to more than 40 events.  More importantly, the Northwest region as a whole now has nearly 90 events on a regular basis.  Commenting on team leaders in the region, Hal has said, “Our success motivates us to do more to grow the team and generate more business.”

Eddie Peters/Melissa Wilder Report – Eddie reports that San Angelo, Texas just held its first Super Saturday in more than three years.  Also Eddie and Melissa joined Steve Fleming for a Team Texas tool blitz on Saturday following their area APT.  In addition, Melissa conducted two successful APTs on Saturday: one in Lubbock and the other in El Paso.

Rob/Charlene MacKenzie Report – Rob proudly reports that Ontario was on the PPL “leader board” with a 41 percent increase in activity.  From a personal perspective, he and Charlene were gratified to learn they had reached the $200K level.  Now they have their sights (and goals) set on the $250K ring by Dallas.  In other news, this coming Friday, there will be a business owners legal solutions plan (BOLSP) class conducted by trainers, Bob and Annice Bale. Then on Saturday (February 27), the APT (coordinated Theresa Woolard) will take place.

Michael McCoy Report – Mike reports that Iowa and Nebraska were both active last week.  GVP Thomas Owens from Wichita, Kansas spent three days in Cedar Rapids teaching group school on Thursday and Friday and then participating in the APT on Saturday.  Mike sends out a “well done” to RM Greg Wildebour and other local leaders for their excellent programming.

Larry/Doni Smith Report – This past week, Phoenix hosted RM David Mons of Chicago for a briefing event attended by 62, including nine guests.  In Tempe, ED Debbie Wray led a successful briefing, while in Glendale, ED Cassie Prinke was the guest speaker at a luncheon attended by 30 people, including nine guests.  Additional meetings during the week included: Safford (with a Tuesday night business briefing), Sierra Vista (with a Thursday night briefing that included 14 associates and four guests), an a Friday luncheon (with a presentation by Lynette Bruester for eight associates and two guests).

Danny Katoa Report – Danny says there was a full roster of briefings and other events this past week, including a tool blitz on Saturday.  He says the momentum continues to build following the recent APT and Group School conducted by Jason Lavender and then the “power events” by Darnell Self.  Danny says the team is also working to open a business briefing in the Kona market.

Kevin Montville Report – New Hampshire ended the week with an “eye opening” small biz training by Michael Schecter of Connecticut.  This event was attended by associates from New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Clearly, we had another successful week, particularly with respect the first APT of 2010.  Keep in mind, the dates for other APTs this year include: May 15, August 21 and November 13.  See you here next week.

Cordially,

Harland C. Stonecipher

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ABOUT THE GREEN LIGHT:  The Green Light is a weekly showcase of activity as reported to the CEO of Pre-Paid Legal by successful associates across the United States and Canada. Results vary and depend on skill, persistence, and a variety of factors. This report is for recognition, motivation, and informational purposes only.

Foreclosures are No Guarantee that Headaches are Over

By Aleshia Altizer

For those on the cusp of foreclosure, it's important to understand the details of the situation fully because troubles may not end after a foreclosure. According to a CNN Money article, if there’s a difference between what’s owed on a home and what the bank would get at auction, the bank could pursue a deficiency judgment against a former homeowner, even years after the foreclosure.

Whether it was unemployment, a job transfer, or just struggling under too big of a loan, if a borrower can no longer sell their home for what they owe and are forced to short sell or foreclose, they could face a deficiency judgment.

The article also advises borrowers to seek legal advice if they have any doubts about what their risks are. This is so important because laws vary by state, and there are multiple ways an attorney can advise a client regarding foreclosure. It is also important to never sign any paperwork without fully understanding it. Pre-Paid Legal members should contact their Provider Attorney the moment a concern arises so the attorney can go over the situation, examine any related documents, and offer sound legal advice.

Pre-Paid Legal Founder Honored as “Most Admired CEO”

Pre-Paid Legal Founder and CEO Harland C. Stonecipher was named one of Oklahoma's top business leaders in the inaugural "Oklahoma's Most Admired CEOs" program organized by an Oklahoma City-based business newspaper.

Stonecipher was awarded the top honor in the category of "Public companies with less than $500 million in annual revenue" at a gala event hosted by The Journal Record on Feb. 18 in Oklahoma City.

The publication’s top executive said that leaders honored with the award showed determination through tough economic times while possessing values that earned them respect from their employees, as well as business and civic communities.

In total, 39 business and non-profit leaders were nominated for the "Oklahoma's Most Admired CEOs" awards in seven separate categories, including public and private companies, small businesses and non-profits. Honorees were selected by an independent industry panel. 

"It is a distinct honor to be included among this exceptional group of Oklahoma's most admired CEOs, and I'm gratified to receive the award in our designated public company category," Stonecipher said. "From my perspective, this award represents the vision with which we created Pre-Paid Legal Services more than 37 years ago, as well as the hard work and dedication of all those who helped make this vision a reality."

Video from the event: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRYLasX6PXI&feature=player_embedded

Pre-Paid Legal Press Release:  http://investor.shareholder.com/ppd/releasedetail.cfm?ReleaseID=445827

What Only Happens Four Times a Year?

By Stacy Whelchel

It’s the quarterly Advanced Product Trainings, with the first event of the year coming up this week.

On Saturday, Feb. 20, top Pre-Paid Legal Associates across the United States and Canada will headline APT meetings where they will share important information, including product details, tips for overcoming objections and the best places and methods for finding referrals.

In Oklahoma, the Home Office will host an APT with special guest trainer Bill Stovall, $100,000 Ring Earner and South Carolina GVP. A Group School from Feb. 18-19 is also available to Associates visiting the Corporate Office.

Other APT dates for 2010 include May 15, Aug. 21 and Nov. 13. Since this is information that could benefit you and your PPL business now, there’s no time like the present to check out the APT event locator map in Associates Only on the company’s website. On the APT map site, you can find the location that works best for you and sign up with just a few clicks to reserve your place at this very special and memorable event.

The Green Light

“Character is what you do when no one is looking,” said Robert Coles, the renowned child psychologist and author.  It’s a great guiding principle.  But character is also reflected in what we do when people “are looking” and when they expect the best from us.

Consider Darnell Self and the character he displayed this past weekend.  Scheduled to participate in a Super Saturday in Orlando, all flights from Maryland to Orlando were cancelled.  For some that might be the end of the story, but Darnell and family hopped in the car and drove 14 straight hours to make to the event.  According to Randy Harp, who was also a featured speaker at the event, Darnell’s presentation was “highly educational and inspirational.”  We’re fortunate to have leaders (like Darnell) throughout our organization: leaders who demonstrate character, commitment and determination when they are in the spotlight and when they are not.

Here are some other examples of how that works:

Hal/Susan Faresh Report – “Traveling is a great way to meet local leaders and connect with regional managers,” Hal says.  For the past few weeks he’s been busy travelling through the Pacific Northwest region.  The first week of the month he was in Albany and Portland, Oregon for business briefings and then on to Federal Way and Seattle, Washington where RM Mikal Mekki led a successful Super Saturday on February 6.  Hal attended the recent Super Saturday in Sacramento and then traveled to Las Vegas for a Tuesday night briefing and then to Roseville, California for a Wednesday night briefing.  Recently both San Francisco and Silicon Valley held tool blitzes.  This past weekend Fresno, California and Albany, Oregon held successful group schools.  This week there is an all out push to get associates to the area APTs.  Sacramento is planning for a large crowd to hear the magic of Mark Brown.

Mike Humes Report – Three feet of snow was no match for those in the North East Region.  Mike says that many in this region turned the weather crisis into multiple opportunities for exposure, organizing webinars that brought new “homebound” associates into the business.  This past week, many in New Jersey braved the weather to hear Mark Michaud of Scarborough, Maine.  Not to be outdone, New York hosted an event with Dave Savula this past Tuesday and RM Sheenese Nichols organized opportunity meetings and a tool blitz in the NYC.  Connecticut has also been active.  MCM Carlo Brown (of Florida) was a featured guest for events that included a business luncheon, opportunity meetings and PBRs for associates throughout the state.  Also in Connecticut, MCM Tony Petrill conducted what some have described as the best group school and APT in Connecticut to date.  Mike is in Connecticut this week for meetings in Stratford and for a meeting with the provider law firm, Willinger, Willinger and Bucci, P.C.

Rob/Charlene MacKenzie Report – Ontario and Manitoba are having a “great” first half of the month.  Rob says the region is up 138 percent in the sale of family plans and 58 percent in recruiting for the past week compared to last year.  This past week, Katrina Ferguson conducted a strong weekly briefing in Toronto.  Also, Theresa Woolard conducted a successful, well attended group school in Winnipeg, Manitoba.  Rob says everyone in his region is working to meet their goals by February 24.

Larry/Doni Smith Report – Arizona’s Super Saturday this past weekend included more than 500 attendees and presentations by Dave Savula, Christa Aufdemberg of Tustin, California and Michael Dorsey of Cumming, Georgia.  MCM testimonial presenters included: Patti Reid of Frankford, Delaware; Brenda and Jerry Loffredo of Chandler, Arizona; Brenda Anderson of Glendale, Arizona; and Tony and Marsha Hughes of Oro Valley, Arizona.  In other news, Glendale held a Thursday luncheon with 39 attendees;   Mesa held a luncheon with 6 attendees; Tempe’s evening event included 41 associates and guests; and Phoenix held a Monday briefing that included 48 attendees.  

Ron/Norma Crutcher Report – This past Saturday there was an excellent APT in Ohio thanks to GVP Amilda Coffman; Ohio provider law firm Macguire & Schneider, LLP; and John Abrahms of Cleveland, Ohio.  Ron and Norman also participated in the program.   Like other regions, Ohio is putting more focus on recruiting calls during the snowbound days.

Frank/Theresa AuCoin Report – Last week, Mike Jamison from Atlanta, Georgia participated in four separate events in the South Carolina market over a three-day period, drawing strong participation at each event.  It helped.  For the past week, recruiting was up in Charleston by 600 percent over the same week last year. 

Brooks Werkheiser Report – This past week, Brooks was in Mobile, Tuscaloosa and Montgomery, Alabama, as well as Oxford, Mississippi.  Dave Savula is scheduled to be in Huntsville, Alabama for an event this week.  On Saturday, Brooks will be on the Mississippi Gulf Coast for the APT in Biloxi, Mississippi.  The new provider law firm will be introduced during the event and Rod Nixon, Jacob Ray and Larry Framme will participate in the event.  Brooks says he continues to focus on adding new leaders in the four-state region.

Bill/Linda Carter Report – New Mexico is once again in the top five states for production (per capita) for the past week.  This past week, CMCs Anthony and Sandra Geck organized a blitz with multiple meetings, luncheons and a Saturday event that featured RM Mike Halona of Window Rock, Arizona.  Next week, MCM Tony Hughes will be the guest speaker at an event in Albuquerque.

Ross/Cindy Chantrel Report – Beside the region’s regular meeting schedule, Kansas City, Missouri held license training on Wednesday night.  For the coming week, planning is underway for the APT in St. Louis, where special guests include Melaine Lawson and Greg May of Missouri provider law firm, Dubail Judge.

Jack Bufkin Report – Tennessee recruiting is up 30 percent for the past week compared to last year.  Jack shares some special recognition for RM Sharon Williams whose middle Tennessee recruiting is up 300 percent for the past week.  Jack says despite challenges, Sharon has preserved and in the process, taught many associates the meaning of the character and “toughness.”

Keith/Carol Dickens Report – Indiana and Kentucky are also well into planning for the APT this weekend.  The Indiana event will be held in Elkhart and Group VP Rosemary Blair will lead the program.  The Kentucky event will be held in Louisville and will be led by Group VP Michele Schulman.  In addition, Bill Hamilton of Dillon, South Carolina will conduct a financial workshop at the Kentucky event.   On Wednesday of this week, Kentucky’s provider law firm, O’Koon Hintermeister, PLLC, will host an open house at the law firm that includes a presentation, a Q&A and a tour of the firm.

Are you impressed?  I am.  We have a network of individuals who are committed to personal and organizational success by matching opportunity with hard work and determination.  Some call it a “culture of commitment.”  I call it the “character of achievement.”

Cordially,

Harland C. Stonecipher

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ABOUT THE GREEN LIGHT:  The Green Light is a weekly showcase of activity as reported to the CEO of Pre-Paid Legal by successful associates across the United States and Canada. Results vary and depend on skill, persistence, and a variety of factors. This report is for recognition, motivation, and informational purposes only.

Happy Presidents’ Day (Washington's Birthday)

The U.S. Federal Government officially observes George Washington’s Birthday  on the third Monday of February. However over time, many have come to recognize this day as Presidents’ Day: A time to honor all the great leaders of our nation who pledged to faithfully execute the office of President of the United States, and to the best of their ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.
"The American people stand firm in the faith which has inspired this Nation from the beginning. We believe that all men have a right to equal justice under law and equal opportunity to share in the common good."
- President Harry S. Truman, Inaugural Address, 1949

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Celebrated in different ways around the world, the central theme of this holiday is love. What an ideal opportunity to get with loved ones and share about Pre-Paid Legal. It only takes a few minutes, and the benefits can last a lifetime.

Looking for Fulfillment?

By Aleshia Altizer

From autoworker to nursing school, from district manager to case manager at a crisis center, many who have endured cut backs, lay-offs or burn outs, are taking entirely different career paths, but all with one goal: Finding fulfillment through giving back.

A story from MSN looks at these life changing career moves, also known as “encore” careers which include jobs in health care, education, green industries, government, social entrepreneurship and nonprofits. The article also cites a survey from 2008 which found that between 5.3 and 8.4 million Americans have started encore careers. In addition, half of workers between ages 44 and 70 are interested in going that direction.

One unique opportunity available to those seeking an encore career is with Pre-Paid Legal Services, Inc. Independent Associates own their own business, can start out part-time or full-time, and best of all it’s a business that makes a difference. Pre-Paid Legal Plans make access to equal justice under the law a reality for families throughout North America.

The Green Light

It’s been said, “To succeed you must believe in something with such a passion that it becomes a reality.” 

This week, I have the good fortune to announce the “reality” that some Pre-Paid Legal Services associates have created for themselves.  Branden and Emilee Samaniego of Nuevo, California and Jeff and Erin Kebble (JK Consulting) of Marietta, Georgia have just earned their $100,000 ring and Carlo Brown of Capital Heights, Maryland is our newest Millionaire Club Member.  Congratulations.

Here’s more on that passion and reality:

Frank/Theresa AuCoin Report – This past week, South Carolina held two “powerful” Super Saturdays – one in northern part of the state and the other in southern South Carolina.  To make it interesting, they organized a competition to see which region would generate the most participation.   With 864 participants, upstate South Carolina won and RM Dari Spurgeon and his wife, TaShauna, will be the dinner guests of Frank and Theresa AuCoin.  Frank says Hardy Blash of Rex, Georgia did a “fabulous” job in his presentation at the upstate event, filling in for Mike Humes who could not attend due to an airport closing.  Corey Muhammad of Charlotte, North Carolina and Ron Mueller “fired up” the attendees at the event in southern part of South Carolina.

Brooks Werkheiser Report – Brooks says he took to heart the phrase, “The woods are full of people looking for a way to earn extra income.”  He says it’s an eye opener at meetings because it’s true.  This past week, Brooks was Little Rock, Arkansas as a guest speaker.  He highlights Debbie Mosley, Jan Whitney, Joel and James Johnson and Doyce and Lana Tarkington for their efforts in building that market.  Brooks was scheduled to be in Mobile, Alabama on Monday; in Tuscaloosa on Tuesday; and in Montgomery on Thursday.

Larry/Doni Smith Report – Last week, Larry and Doni held a luncheon in Glendale, Arizona that included 32 associates and 14 guests.  On Thursday night, Bill Harrel led an area meeting that included 40 associates and 10 guests and there was Friday luncheon with 10 associates and five guests.  Julie Christopher reports their Monday night briefing included presentations by MCM Brenda Anderson and Joseph Wray.  ED Harold Branch was the guest speaker at a Tempe event this past week that include 45 associates and six guests.

Bill/Linda Carter Report – Bill was in northwest New Mexico on Saturday for a Super Saturday organized by RM Mike Halona of Arizona and CMC Nona Phoebus.  New RMs Matt and Valerie Cano are starting up a new business luncheon in Santa Fe and the meeting attendance at the Albuquerque meeting has doubled.  Coming this Saturday, CMCs Anthony and Sandra Geck are hosting a special Saturday event, as well as another special program that will feature Mike Halona.

Ron/Norma Crutcher Report – “Heavy Weather” forced the rescheduling of last week’s Super Saturday in Dayton, Ohio; however, the area leadership acted quickly and “brilliantly,” replacing that event with a marathon of recruiting calls from noon until 10:00 p.m.  More than 100 people called in with guests.  Ron also congratulates GVP Amilda Coffman for her efforts in securing the involvement of three Kroll executives at the advanced product training on February 13.

Jack Buflin Report – TTMP (Talk to More People) is the new battle cry in Tennessee.  With two new meetings launched this past week in Cleveland and Knoxville, there will be more people to talk to.  Jack congratulates Debi Moseley and Nancy Mattox for the great work they are doing in the Memphis market.  On Tuesday of this week, Jack is scheduled to speak in Chattanooga and he’s expecting a strong turn out because of the ongoing efforts of Donald Jenkins and Lee Duckett.

Ross/Cindy Chantrel Report – In addition the region’s regular meeting schedule, there is a new Friday luncheon Overland Park, Kansas that has generated strong participation thanks to the efforts of Director Don Dalrymple.  On Wednesday of last week, ED Tracy Harrop conducted Missouri license test training.  Ross says he is personally contacting Kansas City associates to enlist their support in rebuilding the Tuesday night business briefing.

Patti Ross and Ken Smith Report – Patti congratulates Gloria Houghton as the new regional manager for Alberta south.  Gloria has been one of the top producers in the area for years.  This week, a new meeting will start up Calgary at the Elks Lodge and Golf Club.  In North Alberta RM Linda Rasmussen’s numbers are up more than 200 percent for the past week.  British Columbia has a number of special events coming up and a new luncheon will soon start up.  Katie Huff of Lola, Montana will be the guest speaker at the next advanced product training event.

Eddie Sturgis Report – Bill Stovall of Greenville, North Carolina will be in Oklahoma next week for group school and advanced product training.  Eddie reports that new meetings have begun in Claremore and Muskogee.  On Thursday of this week, he will be in Muskogee for a business briefing.  It’s good to hear the Norman meeting is starting up again and will be supported by Steve Bratcher and other area directors.  Looking forward, Eddie is scheduled to lead a leadership summit the first weekend in March.

Mark Michaud Report – Maine just held a successful Super Saturday with Aaron James of Chula Vista, California as the guest speaker.  Mark says there was excellent attendance at the event and that Aaron “made a strong impression on everyone present.”

After reading this, I hope you agree that we have the “passion” and we certainly have the “product.”  Now it’s only a question of the “reality” we want to create for ourselves.  How big is your vision statement?

Cordially,

Harland C. Stonecipher

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ABOUT THE GREEN LIGHT:  The Green Light is a weekly showcase of activity as reported to the CEO of Pre-Paid Legal by successful associates across the United States and Canada. Results vary and depend on skill, persistence, and a variety of factors. This report is for recognition, motivation, and informational purposes only.

Could You Benefit from New Federal Tax Laws?

By Stacy Whelchel

The processes and procedures outlined in federal income tax laws can be difficult to follow, especially when the rules can and do change.
 
For some taxpayers, confusion might be the case this year after tax law changes were created by passage of the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act stimulus package. The federal Act added new income tax laws, while adjusting related laws to take into account inflation.

New laws applying to this year’s income tax statements are detailed in this Bankrate story. Tax law changes include the issues of vehicle sales tax deductions, home purchases, residential improvements and educational credits.

Pre-Paid Legal's Provider Firms are reliable resources for members' questions about old and new tax laws. Our legal service plans and Provider Attorneys help empower taxpayers to know their legal rights and gain the knowledge that might ultimately make a difference in this taxing situation.

Architectural Firm that Designed PPL Corporate Office Wins Top Award For New Project

By Aleshia Altizer

    
The architectural firm that designed Pre-Paid Legal’s corporate headquarters recently won a top award! Meyer, Scherer & Rockcastle, Ltd. (MS&R) is a recipient of the prestigious American Institute of Architects 2010 Honor Award 
. Out of hundreds of entries, only 14 projects won. MS&R’s entry was an example of a “reuse project,” in which five industrial buildings in the historic Philadelphia Navy Yard were renovated to form a unique corporate headquarters for a national clothing chain.

MS&R is known for incorporating a company’s unique attributes into their designs. When designing Pre-Paid Legal’s Corporate Headquarters, which opened in 2003, MS&R was able to perfectly encompass the uniqueness and strength of the company with special attention to a rock-solid foundation symbolizing Pre-Paid Legal’s strong heritage and integrity.

Those attending the International Convention in Oklahoma City are welcome to also come for a tour of Pre-Paid Legal. Login to Associates Only and click on Upcoming Events for more information.

The Green Light

There is a sobering story in The New York Times today about the current Federal budget which suggests that even under the administration’s “own optimistic projections, American deficits will not return to what is widely considered sustainable levels for the next 10 years.” Politics aside, the issue of “personal sustainability” comes to mind. Here at Pre-Paid Legal Services, it’s called “free enterprise” and here is how some of us are preparing for the next decade by what we do today.

Patti Ross/Ken Smith Report– Patti says the Vancouver event this past weekend with Kathy Aaron was a tremendous success and that it drew participation throughout the region.  RM Gerry MacKinnon even drove 18 hours to attend the event.  The Edmonton market is expanding and Ken is there this week for an event at a new venue.  Also, the Alberta market is growing rapidly with production up 340 percent over this past week compared to 2009.

Hal/Susan Faresh Report– Hal reports business as usual with a full roster of meetings, group schools and Super Saturdays in the Pacific Northwest.  He says a number of area regional managers are already seeing growth from past years.  Kai Deering of the Silicon Valley in California reports the average 2009 increase (over 2008) is 47 percent in recruiting and approximately 10 percent in membership.  For 2010, her ambitious goals include 25 percent growth in both recruiting and membership. (I like your ambition.)  Over the past few weeks, Hal has focused on the Northern California market where he has participated in meetings, briefings and a Super Saturday. This week he’s returning to markets in Oregon and Washington.

Rob/Charlene MacKenzie Report– Ontario and Manitoba had a strong close for January.  Last weekend, Theresa Woolard led a successful group school that included more than 90 participants.  Theresa is also scheduled to be in Winnipeg, Manitoba on February 12.  In addition, there is a “huge” APT scheduled for the February 27.

Ron/Norma Crutcher Report– Ohio just held its largest group school to date with more than 150 associates attending the program led by Amilda Coffman of New Albany, Ohio.  Hardy Blash of Rex, Georgia will be the guest speaker at the next Super Saturday in Dayton. This week’s statewide conference call will feature Agar Thomas of Greensboro, North Carolina.

Brooks Werkheiser Report– This past week, Brooks participated in meetings in Vicksburg, Jackson and Brandon, Mississippi and Metairie, Louisiana.  For the coming week, he will be in Meridian, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; and Little Rock, Arkansas.  Beth Taylor of the Mississippi Gulf Coast is coordinating an APT event that will include Advisory Council Member Mike Moore, Larry Framme and new provider firm attorneys, Rod Nixon and Jacob Ray.  On a related point, Brooks says the “WOW Service from the Heart” program continues providing benefits in each market in the Gulf South Region.

Ross/Cindy Chantrel Report– Mo-Kan just held two of its best attended group schools to date.  Both trainers -- Alan Roman (St. Louis) and Thomas Owens (Kansas) -- report that more than 80 percent of the attendees in both locations were “first timers” who had been in the business less than 90 days.  Ross believes that’s an indication that the promotions are working.  (I’m happy to agree.)

Dave Hall Report– Dave says Utah is proud of its recent accomplishment as being per capita number 2 in production and number 3 in recruiting in the network.  He says the “energy is cranking” with business briefings filled to capacity.  Dave says, “Even though we are a small population state, we’re holding our own . . . and many in the state are pushing for executive director over the next few months.”

Mike Michaud Report– Maine held a “powerful” Super Saturday this past week, with Aaron James of Chula Vista, California providing an energy supply.  Also, the newly established meeting in York, Maine is proving to be a wise and successful choice for the market.

Kevin Montville Report– Kevin says that New Hampshire ended the month with a “phenomenal” group training event led by GVP Bill Stovall of Greenville, North Carolina.  According to Kevin, there was strong participation by associates from both New Hampshire and Marine markets.

That’s The Green Light for the first week in February. It reflects a good finish for January, a strong beginning of February and a great choice for personal sustainability, otherwise known as . . . well you know.

Cordially,

Harland C. Stonecipher

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ABOUT THE GREEN LIGHT:  The Green Light is a weekly showcase of activity as reported to the CEO of Pre-Paid Legal by successful associates across the United States and Canada. Results vary and depend on skill, persistence, and a variety of factors. This report is for recognition, motivation, and informational purposes only.

Real Estate Issues Top Legal Service Requests in 2009

News Release 

 

Ada, Okla., Feb. 1, 2010 – Real estate-related issues was the leading legal service request among members (customers) of Pre-Paid Legal Services, Inc. (NYSE: PPD) during 2009 followed by 2) consumer finance, 3) family law, 4) collections and 5) estate planning.  The top five legal service requests for 2009 is based on the total volume of 2.3 million member requests for legal services to the 40 independent provider law firms that assist Pre-Paid Legal members throughout the U.S. and four provinces of Canada for calendar year 2009… read the news release here.