Simmons Heating-Cooling-Electrical Inc. and its Simmons Solar Power Systems division has been selected as a SunPower Authorized Dealer by SunPower Corp., a Silicon Valley-based manufacturer of high-efficiency solar cells, solar panels, and solar systems.

Dealers in the program have completed regular training in the specifications and installation of SunPower products, a news release said.

"SunPower Dealers are selected for their commitment to providing customers with superior service and the best available solar technology," said Cole Peyron, SunPower regional sales manager. "We are very pleased to welcome Simmons as a member of our network. Together, SunPower and SunPower Premier Dealers are raising the bar in the solar industry with higher value products and services.

The program is a first-of-its-kind nationwide initiative to support a network of solar power system dealers that sell, install and service SunPower products, the news release said. SunPower is currently affiliated with more than 600 dealers worldwide.

"Our relationship with SunPower continues the tradition of aligning our company with the premier manufacturers in the United States," said Derek Cole, vice president of operations. "Together, this will enhance our solar power systems division and bring a great end product to our clients who are looking to make the switch to solar power."

Established in 1953, Simmons serves clients covering 20 counties in North and South Carolina, including Moore County, providing residential, commercial, and industrial sales and service in the heating, air conditioning and electrical trades. In 2008, Simmons had more than $7 million in sales from its three offices in Scotland, Robeson and Cumberland counties.

The local office can be reached at 295-6219.

Insurance Society Honors Terry Riney

The Society of Certified Insurance Counselors (CIC) recently recognized Terry Riney, of Terry Riney Agency Inc. in Pinehurst, with a certificate honoring his 30 years of participation in advanced education.

Making CIC history by being among the first group of CICs to reach this 30-year milestone, Riney earned the designation though a series of examinations and has maintained his CIC designation by annual attendance at an approved CIC continuing education program, a news release said.

"The professional dedication and commitment represented by Terry Riney sets the standard within our industry," said Dr. William T. Hold, president of the Society of CIC. "This 30-year accomplishment signifies a career of active involvement in advanced education. Terry's emphasis on professional development positively reflects on the insurance profession as a whole."

The Society of CIC is a member of the National Alliance for Insurance Education and Research. This not-for-profit organization serves more than 70,000 participants annually throughout all 50 states, the U. S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico.

The National Alliance is comprised of the Society of CIC, the Society of Certified Insurance Service Representatives (CISR), Certified Risk Managers International (CRM) and the National Alliance Research Academy.

These members of the National Alliance offer a wide variety of programs, publications and professional designation opportunities in the insurance and risk management industries.

Seminar Wednesday For Home Buyers

Kelli Bennett, senior mortgage loan specialist with Key Mortgage LLC, will offer a free seminar for home buyers who wish to learn more about the first-time home buyer tax credit and understand how it provides an outstanding opportunity for them.

The seminar will be held from, 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7, at the Key Mortgage office at 780 NW Broad St., Suite 610, in Southern Pines.

For more information or to reserve a seat, contact Bennett at 693-0040 or by e-mail kelli@keymortgagellc.com.