Samuelson Insurance Agency: Cheers to the next 100 years

On Wednesday, February 25, Samuelson Insurance Agency celebrated its 100th anniversary at the Duneland Falls Banquet Center. Founded in 1926 by William Samuelson, the agency marked 100 years in business surrounded by clients, elected officials and community partners — many of whom have grown alongside the company itself.

“It’s about the people who showed up, did the work, and took care of this community. Take care of people, and the rest will follow,” said Owner and President James Hazzard. “100 years doesn’t happen because one person gets it right; it happens because generations of people get it right.”

The evening began with food and cocktails before remarks from Portage Township Trustee Brendan Clancy, Economic Development Director and Portage Township School Board President Andy Maletta, Portage Mayor Austin Bonta and Hazzard.

Hazzard, the great-grandson of the agency’s founder, said the celebration was about honoring the foundation laid long before him.

“Today is a day to honor 100 years and pay recognition to all the people that came long before me to make Samuelson Insurance what it is,” he said. “We want to handle the legacy in a way that makes the previous generations proud. We want to be known for being kind, honest, and a part of our community. Agencies don’t last 100 years because of a name on a building. They last because of the people inside of them. I’m honored to lead us forward into our next 100 years.”

Vice President Mike Homolla pointed to the endurance behind the achievement and the agency’s impact beyond insurance.

“It’s a culmination of all the people that came before us and their ability to keep the wheels turning through thick and thin,” Homolla said. “Providing insurance services is great, but the philanthropic work we do with the school systems, township, and the city is huge. Being able to see that we’re able to help in ways other than insurance, just by being that community partner, really means a lot.”

The agency is older than the city of Portage itself. Director of Sales & Marketing Greg Lach said the milestone carries weight.

“Tonight is a culmination of 100 years and everything that came before us,” Lach said. “I’m proud of everything that’s been accomplished before, and I’m a small part of something that’s lasted since before Portage was even a thought. You get to see every little bit and piece of everything that is part of Portage and every surrounding community.”

Mayor Bonta emphasized the agency’s long-standing investment in the city.

“This is a celebration of one of the most timeless businesses in the city of Portage. It’s a company that’s been there for people’s businesses. It’s been there for their homes, their farms, their vehicles, and ultimately, it’s been there for the township. It’s been there for the city and for our schools. They have invested back in the city, keeping the city strong, because they see that long-term relationship of making sure that they support the community that supports them. We’re really proud to have them here in the city of Portage,” said Bonta.

After the speeches, a commissioned painting created for the anniversary was unveiled to the crowd, with prints available for guests to take home as a commemorative piece. The painting was done by Mitch Markovitz, well-known for his South Shore series of artwork.

The night concluded with a social hour and fellowship, as attendees lingered to celebrate a business that has been part of Portage for 100 years – and will likely still be standing in another 100.

For more information, visit samuelsonagency.com.