The annual FAIA Convention has always enjoyed a relaxed atmosphere. Families are abundant and conspicuous (the convention is, after all, often held on Father's Day weekend). The visitor to the candy bowl at an exhibitor's booth often has to reach up, not down. FAIA staff is omni-present and omni-cheerful. The presentation topics carry fun titles: "The Adventures of ACE Insura, Claims Detective."

The "we're-among-friends" mood was evident even within the panel of high-powered insurance experts who spoke at this year's general session. Moderated by IIABA President and CEO Bob Rusbuldt, panel members included Florida CFO Alex Sink; Insurance Information Institute President Robert Hartwig, CPCU; Auto-Owners Insurance Co. Chairman and CEO Roger Looyenga; and Democratic Congressman Ron Klein (FL-22). While their subject matters were serious — the Klein-Mahoney bill "The Homeowners' Defense Act of 2007," credit scoring, Florida's CAT exposure — the panel members were refreshingly outspoken. The session was packed and the audience eager to participate. Since attendees were not shy in letting the speakers know how their comments were being received, here are some of the quotable quotes from the session:

"I think it's irresponsible. We are digging a deeper hole for ourselves." Sink, garnering much applause in denouncing Citizens' rate freeze.