Ann Arbor's Dobson-McOmber Agency Combines Forces with Hylant Group

TOLEDO, Ohio - February 24, 2005 - Hylant Group expands its operations in Michigan, teaming up with Dobson-McOmber Agency to form Hylant of Ann Arbor.

Steve Dobson, owner of Dobson-McOmber Agency, will retain an ownership in and serve as President of the Hylant of Ann Arbor operations. According to Dobson, "We are truly excited to become part of Hylant Group. The synergy between the two firms is remarkable. Our tradition is a rich one, and so is Hylant's. They've demonstrated their commitment to locally focused, personal service. That commitment will provide us with additional tools and resources to better serve our clients."

John Hindle will retain his equity position and serve as Senior Vice President of the Hylant of Ann Arbor operations. Hindle notes, "The Hylant Group office in Ann Arbor has grown tremendously in our thirteen years here. With Dobson-McOmber, we further strengthen our Ann Arbor presence while enhancing our ability to provide the most cost-effective solutions for insurance, employee benefits and investment services."

Commenting on the partnership, Patrick R. Hylant, Chairman and CEO of Hylant Group, said, "The Dobson-McOmber Agency's business philosophy parallels that of Hylant Group, which makes this a perfect fit. Steve and his team have a great presence in the Ann Arbor community. We're proud to have them as part of the Hylant team."

Dobson-McOmber Agency is one of Southeast Michigan's largest independent insurance and risk management firms, offering a full line of property, casualty, life and health insurance to businesses and individuals. It has been a part of the Ann Arbor business landscape for well over 100 years.

Hylant Group is a 70-year old, privately held insurance agency offering complete risk management services, insurance, loss control engineering, 401(k) services, financial services, health care management, and employee benefits for businesses and individuals around the world. In addition to the Ann Arbor location, the firm has offices in Troy, Michigan; Toledo, Columbus, Cincinnati and Cleveland, Ohio; as well as Indianapolis, Bloomington and Ft. Wayne, Indiana. Hylant is also a member of the Worldwide Broker Network. Hylant is ranked as the 26th largest out of more than 15,000 insurance agencies nationwide.