The Florida Association of Insurance Agents will hold their 102nd Anniversary Convention & Education Symposium June 15-17 at the Walt Disney World Contemporary Resort in Orlando. Long established as the premier annual event for agents, the conference allows agents the opportunity to explore a number of topics including the latest in errors and omissions' policies and how to place a value on an agency. This year's conference is also lining up to be one of the most important in years as agents try to absorb the many changes in the homeowners' market due to the latest set of reforms enacted by the legislature. And, of course, no convention would be complete without the many exhibitors who will fill the exhibition hall offering agents the latest products and services.

Prior to heading off to what he says will be the largest convention ever for his association, President and CEO Jeff Grady talked about what makes this annual gathering a must-attend event for so many.

Q. Communications have changed dramatically in the past decade. Faxes, e-mail, and the Internet are all accepted ways for business people to "talk" to one another. Yet, FAIA continues to successfully hold annual gatherings. What do you see as your most compelling reason for bringing agents together — and for the agents to continue showing up?