Skip to main content

The Connect | Volume 17

Page 1

First Integrity’s monthly newsletter, keeping you connected to your company and coworkers.

VOLUME 17

AUGUST 2026

THE CON


TABLE OF

CONTENTS UPCOMING EVENTS

03

SEPTEMBER 2026

NEW HIRES 04 WELCOME ABOARD!

BIRTHDAYS 05 AUGUST

ANNIVERSARIES 06-07 AUGUST

INDUSTRY INSIDER SOFTPRO TIP

08-09

IT CORNER

09

THE SERVICE CENTER

10

LABOR DAY

11

CLIENT CORNER

12

EMPLOYEE RECIPE

13

RESTARTING YOUR COMPUTER HOSPITALITY

FITCO MESSAGE

NEW POSTCARDS DEVILED EGGS

HEALTH & WELLNESS 14-15 EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

BRAG BOARD KUDOS

16-19


UPCOMING EVENTS September Sun

Mon

Tue

Wed

2026

Thu

Fri

Sat

30

31

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

LABOR DAY CLOSED

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

30

1

2

3

FIRST DAY OF FALL

27

28

29

LABOR DAY ������������������������������������������������������SEPTEMBER 7 MONDAY �������������������������������������������������������������������������� CLOSED FIRST DAY OF FALL ������������������������������������� SEPTEMBER 22 TUESDAY

3


WELCOME! Welcome Aboard!

— We’re excited for the fresh energy and unique talents they bring, and we can’t wait to see all they’ll accomplish with us!

BROOKE TURNER ESCROW OFFICER INVESTOR TEAM

AMANDA DOMINGUEZ ESCROW PROCESSOR INVESTOR TEAM

TEDI LEISER REO CLOSER

NATIONAL DEFAULT DIVISION TEAM

LUCERO TERAN

ESCROW ASSISTANT

GLENDALE AZ ESCROW TEAM

PENNY ESPARZA ESCROW OFFICER SCOTTSDALE AZ TEAM

RYAN LEBLANC

TITLE CURATIVE SPECIALIST NATIONAL DEFAULT DIVISION TEAM

TERESA CASTRO

ESCROW ASSISTANT

NATIONAL DEFAULT DIVISION TEAM

DANIEL GALKIN

CO TITLE OPERATIONS MANAGER CO TITLE TEAM

CHRIS BARKER

ACCOUNT MANAGER AZ SALES TEAM

DEBORAH BORDEN ROW ASSISTANT

NATIONAL DEFAULT DIVISION TEAM

BRIAN RESEIGH

ACCOUNT MANAGER CO SALES TEAM

4


BIRTHDAYS Happy Birthday to our teammates! May this be your best year yet! JENNIFER VIGIL

DANIELLE VANDYKE

JENNIFER ZIMMERMAN

KIMBERLY MILLER

TAYLOR WEHMEYER

EVAN FRANDSEN

BREANNA DAVIS

JESSICA ESPARZA

HOLLY TOMLIN

ELENA JOBSON

VERENICE CERVANTES

RACHEL CHEWNING

TERESA CAIN

AMATO PENNELLA

PRISCILLA CRUZ

SABINA PETKOV

CHELSEY PUMMEL

AUGUSTO ARCA

TAYLOR WALTER

RACHEL BAKER

AUGUST 2ND AUGUST 3RD AUGUST 5TH AUGUST 5TH AUGUST 5TH

AUGUST 5TH AUGUST 6TH AUGUST 8TH

AUGUST 10TH AUGUST 11TH

AUGUST 15TH AUGUST 16TH AUGUST 17TH AUGUST 18TH AUGUST 18TH AUGUST 19TH

AUGUST 23RD AUGUST 25TH AUGUST 28TH AUGUST 29TH

5


ANNIVERSARIES 6

SPOTLIGHT M

5

5

YEARS

YEARS

REBECCA CUTRIGHT LESLIE HINES

SARA NUGENT

NICOLE SAYER

SONYA EDWARDS

YEARS

21 YEARS

18 YEARS

12

JESSE REYNOLDS

KANDY ENCINAS

DESTINY HINKLE

YEARS

YEARS

YEARS

BRIANNA CORWIN

JENNIFER KINCAID

ANGELA CASTRO

YEARS

YEARS

YEARS

ROXANA PEZESHKI

MANDI HOLT

KELLY KLUSCZINSKI

YEARS

YEARS

YEARS

4

2 2

4

2 2

3

2 1

Thank you all for your continued hard work, d


MILESTONES

5

10

JENNIFER NGUYEN

JOHN MORGAN

YEARS

YEARS

BECCA STRANG

KYLE ENGLAND

MELISSA REYNOLDS

TAYLOR WALTER

YEARS

YEARS

YEARS

YEARS

JAZLYNN PARRA

HEATHER SPALDING

GABBY CENTI

ANGELA RANK

YEARS

YEARS

YEARS

YEARS

REX CONNER

ADAM CHANEY

VIRGINIA GONZALEZ

DENICE WILLBRANDT

YEARS

YEARS

YEARS

YEARS

MELANIE PANTON

PRISCILLA CRUZ

KIEREN LYSAGHT

YEARS

YEARS

YEARS

11 2 2 1

8

2 2 1

6

2 2

6

2 2

1

dedication and loyalty to First Integrity & FIN! 7


INDUSTRY INSIDER

HOW TO CHANGE DEFAULT SHIPPING PREFERENCES IN FEDEX

1. Open 360 and select FedEx

2. Enter/Choose any file (it does not matter which one):

3. Choose Manage Accounts:

4. Choose Change Shipping Preferences:

8


5. Update your personal information and click Save:

IT Corner : Troubleshooting Tip Have You Tried Turning It Off and On Again? (Seriously.)

A restart can resolve many common computer issues. It also saves time during a remote support session because one of the first things our IT team may ask you to do is restart your computer.

1. Restart your computer. Make sure you select Restart not just Lock or Shut Down. 2. Submit the IT ticket. If the problem persists after a restart, continue putting in a ticket so our team can help. Remember to restart your computer weekly. Restarting your PC once a week is a great habit. It helps your equipment work more efficiently and lets important security and software updates finish installing. Thank you! - IT Department 9


THE y t i l a t i SERVICE p Hos CENTER Tips and guidance on providing great service.

The Difference Between

Hospitality and Service and how we need both to succeed.

Agents choose us because we are a trusted business partner: reachable, invested in their business, and willing to go the extra mile to clear issues when title gets difficult. That’s how trust is built across many files, not just one. Hospitality is not about extravagance; it’s about intention, details, and a partnership that continues before and after documents are signed.

What is the difference between service and hospitality? Service is black and white. Service is a transaction. Service is politeness. Service gets the job done.

Hospitality is a feeling. Hospitality is color.

Many companies provide great service, but few master true hospitality. While service is about efficiency and fulfilling requests, hospitality is about creating emotional connections that make guests feel valued, such as remembering their names and welcoming them like old friends. Our customers rate their guest experience by how they feel before, during, and after they close with us. To create an extraordinary guest experience, you must provide both service AND hospitality. Hospitality is exemplified by attentive and friendly service. Those who go the extra mile to make agents and customers feel comfortable, offer solutions to challenges, and provide quick assistance, create a welcoming atmosphere that enhances the entire closing experience.

10


LABOR DAY A celebration of social and economic achievements of the American workers.

Observed the first Monday in September, Labor Day is rooted in the late nineteenth century, when labor activists pushed for a federal holiday to recognize the many contributions workers have made to America’s strength, prosperity, and well-being. It’s a good reminder that the success of our communities, our businesses, and our country is built by people who show up every day, work hard, take pride in what they do, and contribute their time and talents. We believe it is important to recognize hard work not just on Labor Day, but throughout the year. Every accomplishment we have as a company is made possible because of the dedication and commitment of our employees. Your hard work, loyalty, perseverance, and willingness to give your best truly matters. We are incredibly grateful for the role each of you plays here. Your efforts help us grow, serve our customers, overcome challenges, and continue building something we can all be proud of. Thank you for your hard work, your loyalty, and everything you contribute. We are exceptionally fortunate to have such a dedicated team. This Labor Day, we hope you take the opportunity to relax, recharge, and spend time with the people who are important to you. All our best, First Integrity Title Company 11


TURN THE LEAF ON SUMMER... A FRESH COLLECTION OF SEASONAL AND LUXURY POSTCARDS IS READY FOR WHAT’S NEXT. We have a variety of new postcard designs available for both print and mail or digital! All postcard designs can be found on our website or by emailing marketingsupport@firstintegritytitle.com! 12


The Best

D EVI L E D EG GS

CO MPLIMENTS OF: KELLY K LUSCZINS K I, G RAP HIC DES IGNER

INGREDIENTS: • 12 Eggs

• 2 TSP Yellow Mustard

• 1 ½ TBS White Vinegar

• Paprika

• ½ cup of Mayonnaise

• Parsley

THE EGGS:

DIRECTIONS:

1) Boil a dozen eggs for 12 minutes, then place them in an ice bath for at least 10 minutes. Once fully cooled, remove them from the ice bath and peel. THE FILLING: 1) Cut each egg in half and put the yolks into a bowl. 2) Mash the yolks until they are smooth and combine with 1 ½ TBS of white vinegar, a large dash of paprika, ½ cup of mayonnaise, and 2 TSP of yellow mustard. Mix until fully combined. 3) Put in a piping bag and fill each egg with the yolk mixture. 4) Top each egg with a small dash of paprika and parsley. PARTY FAVORITE: *Top eggs with different ingredients for a deviled egg flight. (My favorites: BLT, Salmon Lox, & Pickled Beet)


HEALTH

14


WELLNESS Did you know that all employees and their immediate family members have 24/7 access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP)? Life can be unpredictable, whether you are dealing with everyday stress, navigating personal challenges, or looking for financial and legal advice.

WHAT EAP OFFERS: • Mental Health Support: free, confidential counseling sessions (inperson or virtual) for stress, anxiety, grief, or relationship concerns. • Financial Guidance: Consultations for budgeting, debt management, tax planning, and retirement preparation. • Legal Services: Free initial consultations and discounts on legal assistance for wills, estate planning, or family law. • Work-Life Resources: Assistance finding childcare, eldercare, housing options, or educational support.

100% Confidential: Your privacy is strictly protected. HR and management never receive information about who uses the service or what topics are discussed.

How to Access Your Benefits: Phone: 800-316-2796 Website: mutualofomaha.com/eap 15


BRAG

BOARD Have you ever wanted to call out your teammates hard work but didn’t know the best avenue to do so?

The brag board is a great way to give accolades to your coworkers! If you see someone going above and beyond for a customer, we want to know! If a client sends you an encouraging “well done!” email, we want to see it! Send your good news and positive feedback to FitcoBrag@firstintegritytitle.com to be featured on the next Brag Board!

16


Tina Bonham Service Desk & Eneida Responded to dates and deadlines Harmening

as well as any questions in a very Want to extend my sincere gratitude timely manner. to Service Desk team and Eneida -John Steeby, Corcoran Perry & Co Harmening for going above and beyond with onboarding Penny Michael Jenney Esparza and Lucero Teran. They were Michael has both quick hires and both teams were demonstrated amazing at getting them onboarded courteous manners and on targeted start dates. I appreciate went above and beyond you ALL and hope that you guys have to find a solution a great day. for a frustrated -Yvette Predovich, First Integrity Title client. He clearly represents how Jill Remigio your great firm is I just wanted to thank you for all of able to work with your efforts last night with the file integrity and up against a CIC doc deadline. The respect. Thank fact that you watched your emails you very much all evening and were able to meet for your wonderful deadline by getting the docs out just staff with his services. before 10pm is outstanding!!! You have -Ruth A Yu no idea how appreciative everyone is in the transaction. Anne is floored by Briellen Kirsch your level of care for this file. Thank Great team, you for going so above and beyond!! transactions always flawless! You are such a hard worker and most -April Schmidt, Guardian Real of all a great human. I hope you have Estate Group a wonderful day. I sure appreciate you! -Gina Galati, First Integrity Title

Julie Hellvig Ashley Williams

Julie Hellvig is absolutely wonderful, I love working with her! -April Schmidt, West + Main Homes

Julie Hellvig was fantastic and I highly recommend her to any real estate agent. -John Campbell, HomeSmart Realty

Laura Garcia

Great experience, very professional and smooth closing. -Fabiola Gallego, United Wholesale Mortgage

Huge shoutout to Ashley Williams for jumping in to support our sales team when we needed it most! She has gone above and beyond to keep things moving and make sure nothing falls through the cracks. She saw a need, jumped in without hesitation, and has truly been a lifesaver! Ashley’s attitude, leadership, and willingness to help wherever needed are exactly what makes our culture so special. We are incredibly grateful for her! -Heather Spalding, First Integrity Title

Sonya Edwards

First Integrity Title was wonderful to work with, very helpful and efficient. -Debbie Meyer, Cornerstone First Mortgage 17


Megan Stearns

Billy Mueller and I are in a meeting with these two TMS clients. Al and Mike are singing your praises. They just love you and working with your team and your intimate knowledge of this industry particularly from the perspective of a mortgage broker. They spent about 5 minutes showering praise on FIN, and you are a huge part of that. Great work, Megan! Thank you for going above and beyond and doing the little and big things that set FIN apart from the rest. -Ryan Buckley, FIN Title

Lisa Schweitzer

The team at First Integrity Title delivers the service necessary for my clients and with a sincere approach to help! -Brent Paine, Your Castle Real Estate, Inc Lisa did a fantastic job - wish all were like her! -Tiffany Peterson, Real

Angela Rank

Israel Navarro

Izzy Navarro went above and beyond to get us to the finish line on this closing! He was proactive, communicative, and truly committed to making sure everything came together. Highly recommend him for anyone looking for a title agent who genuinely cares and gets the job done. Thank you, Izzy! -Glenda Estrada, LoanDepot.com, LLC Izzy Navarro is a superstar escrow manager. -Pablo Picasso Serrano, REAL365 LLC Izzy truly cares about his business partners! I truly appreciated his excellent communication, responsiveness, and commitment to making everything close on time. If you’re looking for an escrow officer who genuinely cares about his clients and delivers exceptional service, I highly recommend Izzy. Thank you for making this experience such a positive one! -Jacqueline Felix, EMG Real Estate

Cameron Deline Angela is a rock star! Her patience, work ethic They did a great job [and] were very responsive. and communication skills are top notch. I will definitely work with Angela and First Integrity in -Caroline McPherson, Axos Bank the future. Cameron and Kim were great! -Tracy Hulsey, RE/MAX Alliance -Linda J. Andrus, Zakhem Real Estate Group Angela is over the top responsive and very Anne Poggenpohl helpful with complicated issues!!! Anne consistently goes above and beyond -Belinda Seville, Guide Real Estate to provide outstanding service. Her communication, professionalism, attention to Angela Rank is da BOMB!!! detail, and dedication make every transaction -Camille Courtney, Courtney Associates smooth from start to finish. She is a true asset Beth Baltz to First Integrity Title, and I always appreciate Beth and Nicolina have my business for life! the exceptional care she gives to both my -Tarah Kuna, Coldwell Banker Residential clients and our team. Brokerage -Claudia LaGuardia, Distinct Real Estate LLC Sandra Atteberry

The team we’re working with is amazing and has made the under contract/closing stage of our transaction so much less stressful. -Katina C. Farrell, Homes By Katina Exceptional and trustworthy every single time. -Shana Yates, Solshine Realty

Everything was timely, consistent and reliable. Anne and the team were great! -Ian A. Leprino, REMINGO

Ingrid Pizzuto

Ingrid Pizzuto and Chris Walker are exceptional to work with. -Chelsea Harold, Golba Group Real Estate


Melanie Panton

Jennifer Zimmerman

Angela & Melanie are amazing to work with. They typically answer questions before I even ask. They spend time making sure the clients are comfortable and understand the documents and process. THANKS for knocking it out of the park as usual!!! -Kimberly Brown, Distinct Real Estate LLC Coldwell Banker Realty

Your responsiveness was always great & exactly what was needed. A very smooth transaction. -Stuart F. Wright, WK Real Estate

Melanie Panton is the best. I trust her implicitly! -Jennee Schwartz, LoKation Real Estate

Jennifer Zimmerman & Jill Remigio Jennifer Zimmerman and Jill Remigio are the BEST team in title! Pam Giarratano is the best rep there is, always available, always willing to help! Myesha is the best notary, always delivering a flawless closing! -Nicolette Thomas, Compass Colorado

Katie Brandenburg

Katie Brandenburg and Team 390 are the best. All my many questions were answered immediately. We did a RON Closing for the first time and it went better than I could have hoped for. Katie guided me and my sellers through it with the utmost professionalism. -Kirk Steinbock, Kinfolk Home Loans Katie and Do are great! -Kayla Givens, eXp Realty, LLC

Samantha Kochiovelos

I am so grateful to have a closer who is solution oriented and incredibly helpful. -Chelsea Harold, Golba Group Real Estate

Jennifer Zimmerman and her team are the best and go above and beyond for their clients. -Jennifer Kiss, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

Jennifer Zimmerman is the best. She is extremely knowledgeable, customer centric and just great at what she does. Hands down, the best of the best! -Karen Koons, RE/MAX Momentum

Elena Jobson

I would like to specifically thank Elena, as she handled a VERY difficult/last-minute problem with ease and incredible professionalism. Can’t thank Elena enough! -Madison Tonn, Real Estate of Winter Park Clearing the title defects that were inherited from the past three transactions handled by a different title company in advance of the listing was the most valuable part of your service and is something I will share with my colleagues. That aspect alone put our minds at ease and made my clients understand why the title insurance policy is invaluable in Colorado real estate transactions. Additionally, our Closer was very professional and reassuring throughout the transaction. -Kristel Acre, Kristel Acre Realty

Rachel Chewning

Rachel was extremely patient with a difficult Samantha is awesome she gets the job done. situation. She was easy and gracious even She is very good at what she does. My closings though the situation was not. are always smooth and clean. Chey who works -Molly Hollis, Gather Realty with her is also very good they do such a great job. Katie Brandenburg -Lisa Yoshimura, Resident Realty & Susan See

Bella Fernandes

Bella and Laura are the best!! -Jonah Villanueba, HomeSmart Realty

Thank you, Katie and Susan!! We enjoy working with you and your team! You’ve blown us away with your level of service, thank you so much for what you do! -Adrian Soto, Front Range State Bank


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
The Connect | Volume 17 by firstintegritytitle - Issuu