Interest was high, she said, because the association was "careful to choose locations with a preponderance of prospects and members."

Ms. Lambert said the quality of the panel was also a draw. She said some attendees were interested in forming a captive while others wanted to know more about the creative uses of captives.

The panel was moderated by Janice Abraham, president and chief executive officer of the United Educators Insurance Risk Retention Group.

Among the presenters was Leonard Crouse, director of Vermont's Captive Insurance Division.

"I've been in this business for 12 years and I've never seen interest this high," Mr. Crouse said.

VCIA also has scheduled a similar panel discussion on Dec. 5 in San Francisco at the Westin St. Francis.

That seminar will be moderated by Pamela Davis, president and CEO of Alliance of Nonprofits for Insurance, a risk retention group. Presenters will include Derick White, assistant director of Vermont's Captive Division.

Ms. Lambert added, "These events are a great way to further VCIA's mission to analyze, publicize and communicate on behalf of the U.S.-domiciled captive insurance industry. We are delighted with the response from experienced professionals as well as those new to the captive world."

Information about the free seminar in San Francisco is available on the association's Web site at www.vcia.com .