Mar_April 2022 GCFM

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MARCH/APRIL 2022

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CONTENTS

F E AT U R E S March/April 2022

C B A S TA F F John McNair President & CEO john@cbaofga.com Lori Godfrey Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff, Government and Regulatory Relations lori@cbaofga.com Kristi Greer Senior Vice President Professional Development kristi@cbaofga.com

Left: Advocating for Community Bankers: Bryan Fiveash, Lori Godfrey, Haydon Stanley Right: Celebrating Women Volunteers, Page 15 2

State of Association

3

Flourish

professional development

t h e l at e s t

5

Getting to Know Rep. Noel Williams, Jr., Cordele

10

CBA Board Member Derek Williams Elected ICBA Chairman-Elect

11

PAC Events

s pot l i g h ts

15

Celebrating Women Volunteers

17

Rising Tide

21

Beating the CECL Deadline

s tay connected

@CBAofGeorgia

23

Education Buzz

24

CBA’s 54th Annual Convention & Mini-Trade Show Keynote Speakers

21

Professional Developement Events

36

CBA’s Preferred Service Providers

37

Celebrate Community Banking Month

38

Scholarship Deadlines

41

Lifetime Service Awards

member services

Lindsay Greene Senior Vice President Member Services, Marketing lindsay@cbaofga.com Lisa McNair Director of Finance lisa@cbaofga.com Cassie Cornell Assistant Vice President Digital Strategy and Professional Development Marketing cassie@cbaofga.com Becky Soto Assistant Vice President Professional Development and LEAD Board becky@cbaofga.com Connie Shepard Assistant Vice President Professional Development and Member Engagement connie@cbaofga.com

@CBAGeorgia

@company/ cbaofgeorgia

Community Bankers Association of Georgia 1640 Powers Ferry Road SE, Building 28, Suite 100, Marietta, GA 30067-1425 (770) 541-4490 or (800) 648-8215 • Fax (770) 541-4496 | www.cbaofga.com • cba@cbaofga.com M ar c h / A p r i l 2 0 2 2 | G e or g i a C o m m un i ti es F i rs t | 1

VANTAGE POINT

State of the Association As part of my annual letter to the membership, I referenced a motivational quote from mentor of mine: “We don’t give ground, we TAKE ground.” The team at CBA has adopted this philosophy in all that we do, and the results have been impressive. With 2021 now fully in the rear-view mirror, I have decided to take this opportunity to provide a State of the Association summary for all.

FINANCIALS: CBA experienced a very strong year financially in 2021.

The association was either at or better than budget in all revenue and expense areas. Previously taking reserves to fund operations, CBA is now ADDING BACK to reserves!

Under the direction of CBA Treasurer Bran Thompson, Lori and Lisa painstakingly restructured CBA’s entire accounting function and enlisted the services of Mauldin and Jenkins to prepare monthly financials. The result is a much more efficient process for all core accounting and bookkeeping functions.

LEADERSHIP: With 12 active committees and a high functioning Board of Directors, community banker and partner firm engagement in CBA operations and planning is at an all-time high. Well over 100 community bankers and partners are guiding the association’s staff regarding programs, products, services, and advocacy approach. CBA is truly a memberrun organization. As a result, CBA is providing timely and needed services and offerings tailored for Georgia’s community banking industry.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Having modernized the curriculum of core CBA educational programs, Kristi and her team continue to work with the CBA Education Committee, Convention Committee, Innovation Committee and Agriculture Committee to develop new and needed offerings for today’s community banker.

Additionally, most all CBA Professional Development programs have a virtual attendance option; thereby enabling community bankers that may not be able to travel due to distance the option to engage and learn.

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John McNair President & CEO Community Bankers Association of Georgia

INNOVATION: Following the national lead of ICBA, CBA has become the technology innovation leader in Georgia, and for that matter, the entire southeast. Lindsay and the Innovation Committee -Chaired by Chris Stanley- have forged significant relationships with Georgia’s major fintech organizations, educators, and partner firms. The Innovation Committee is highly engaged and is directing CBA’s policies, programs, and partner selection. We closed 2021 with the first annual Fintech Forum- which was an incredible success.

Wait until you see what we have in store for all in 2022!

ADVOCACY: Lori and the Advocacy Committee -Chaired by Neil Stevenscontinue to lead CBA advocacy efforts not only during the legislative session, but year-round. Building on the success of our grass roots Town Hall Talks, we have decided to move away from our annual Day at the Dome trip to Atlanta and add more Town Hall Talk events throughout the year. The format allows for greater engagement between legislators, community bankers, and small business owners. Regarding small business owners, our partnership with NFIB has been invaluable and we plan on continuing it for the foreseeable future.

CBA TECHNOLOGY: CBA’s Cassie Cornell has overhauled the CBA website, upgraded the CBA app, and has implemented a new donation app and function that will allow CBA to conduct fundraising programs year-round as well as feature online bidding as part of CBA’s silent auction at convention. CBA is firmly into the 21st century now!

CBA’s leadership bankers and staff have worked incredibly hard over the past few years to create and association featuring uncompromising advocacy, best in class partnerships, high quality education, and technology leadership. Continuous improvement is at the forefront of our minds every day and the results can clearly be seen for all. Thank you for your support and please let us know how we can serve you better.

FROM THE TOP

Rebecca Romero Rainey President and CEO ICBA

Flourish

Harvard University education professor Dr. Howard Gardner said, “Stories constitute the single most powerful weapon in a leader’s arsenal.” As community bankers, we recognize the truth in that statement, because our stories differentiate us, shape public perceptions and allow us to thrive in our roles as community caretakers.

Right now, an unprecedented number of parties want to either be defined as banks or provide banking services. This competition has mounted over the past couple of years, making our unique stories more important than ever before.

Our community-based missions and customer-first relationships distinguish us in today’s crowded marketplace. That’s why we must keep working at telling the story of who we are. We need to ensure that customers know and understand what makes us different, because what we stand for matters.

Once, when my youngest daughter was about seven years old, a megabank was running a large-scale ad campaign focusing on how it served its “community.” When my daughter heard the commercial, a look of horror washed over her face. She turned to me and asked, “How can they say that? They’re not a community bank!” My first thought

was that she had been listening to too many of my speeches, but at a second pass, I realized it was her experiences with her community bank—fiestas, county fairs, school fairs, holiday gatherings and more—that created that emotional connection for her. Those collective encounters shaped her perception of what it means to be a community bank.

This just goes to prove that it’s not only the stories we tell, but the actions behind them, that make the impact. As relationship bankers, we go far beyond our financial offerings to create a connection with our customers. And we need to find a way to amplify that message.

As you read this issue of Independent Banker, I hope you will consider how you can better tell your stories to demonstrate that we are different— not just in words but, more importantly, in deeds.

In a world that’s so full of noise, the story we’re telling is compelling and resonates with our customers, because it’s one of work centered around human connection, care and community. We have an incredible opportunity to show that what we do matters to the day-to-day workings of the communities we serve. So, let’s arm ourselves with the stories of our leadership to help stake a claim on the future of banking. Our customers deserve it.

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THE LATEST

Getting to Know Rep. Noel Williams, Jr., Cordele Chairman of the House Banks & Banking Committee On the day that Lori Godfrey was originally scheduled to meet with Rep. Noel Williams, Jr. for this interview, he was back home in Cordele supporting his daughter for her Star Student award. Why? Because family always comes first. Rep. Williams was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2018 and sworn-in on January 14, 2019.

In 2022, Rep. Williams was appointed as the Chairman of the House Banks & Banking Committee.

Rep. Williams’ family has been in Cordele for five generations.

Williams graduated from the University of Georgia in 1994 and then got married in 1998 to his wife Laura. He has two children, a son and a daughter, aged 21 and 18. His son is a Junior at the University of Georgia and his daughter is a Senior in high school who plans to join him in the fall.

After graduating from college, Rep. Williams worked for Life of the South in the Atlanta area. In 2002, Williams moved back home to Cordele and has been working for Partners Benefit Group since 2007 as a principle. Rep. Williams currently serves on the Board of Directors for South Georgia Banking Company, Tifton, GA.

When asked why he decided to get into politics, Rep. Williams stated that insurance and politics are both a people business so it made sense. He had always been interested in politics as a child but watched it from afar. He served as the Chairman of the Republican party in Cordele and decided to run for the House of Representatives after Buddy Harden decided not to seek re-election. Like community banking, politics and insurance are all about relationships and relationships are important to him.

When asked what his hobbies are, Rep. Williams said that he likes to exercise, attend Georgia football games, play golf, and hunt. Really all of the things a Southern boy enjoys.

It is nice to have a community banker serving as the Chairman of the House Banks & Banking Committee. He understands the importance of community banks and the value that they bring to their local communities. We look forward to working with Rep. Williams in the years to come.

Rep. Williams with CBA’s Lori Godfrey, EVP, Government and Regulatory Relations M ar c h / A p r i l 2 0 2 2 | G e or g i a C o m m un i ti es F i rs t | 5

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THE LATEST

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Thank you for supporting the community banking industry in 2021 through our first t-shirt fundraiser. Monies raised are used to support advocacy efforts at our state capitol.

CBA’s LEAD Committee has designed a new t-shirt for 2022. Don’t miss the chance to order this one-of-a-kind t-shirt!

Join your fellow bankers by wearing these to increase awareness of our industry brand.

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Special perks when you wear your t-shirt to certain CBA events!

Same soft fabric & style you love from our 2021 PAC/PR t-shirt.

Celebrate Community Banking Month in Style! (April 2022) Share photos and videos wearing your shirts to CBA’s Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter for a chance to be featured in publications! #CBAofGA #CommuniTeeBanking

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THE LATEST

Your Resource for Community Bank Legislative Issues

CBA's PAC/PR Fund

The CBA Political Affairs Committee (CBA PAC) is the only Georgia State PAC exclusively committed to representing the interests of Community Banks. ​ ​The political activities of CBA are a vital function. We are seeking the support of every banker in our Association in raising political funds and assisting in political communications. Please remember the power of the Georgia Legislature shapes our future and can change our profession. Maintaining our unified strength is essential. With your support and participation in the political affairs process, the Georgia's community bankers can have a strong voice and influence in the shaping of our industry.

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THE LATEST

CBA Board Member Derek Williams, Century Bank & Trust, Elected ICBA Chairman-Elect Derek Williams, President & CEO of Century Bank & Trust in Milledgeville, was elected chairman-elect of the Independent Community Bankers of America® (ICBA) for 2022—23. His term began March 3 at the conclusion of the ICBA LIVE national convention in San Antonio.

“Community banks serve an integral role in our nation’s financial system, and I’m honored to represent their interests as ICBA chairman-elect,” said Derek. “I look forward to working with ICBA’s leadership to advance ICBA’s advocacy, education and innovation efforts while promoting the benefits that community banking can bring to consumers nationwide.”

“Derek is a passionate community leader and a staunch defender of our industry,” said ICBA Chairman Brad Bolton, President, CEO and senior lender of Community Spirit Bank in Red Bay, Ala. “His vision and drive are a powerful

combination that has garnered the respect and admiration of his peers. We are fortunate to have his talents and counsel on ICBA’s Executive Committee as we move to affect change and propel our industry forward.”

“I am extremely proud, pleased, and excited to announce that Georgia’s own Derek Williams has Derek Williams been elected chair-elect for 2022 Century Bank & Trust and is slated to become the ICBA national chair in 2023,” stated John McNair, CBA President & CEO. “This is an incredible honor for Derek and his family, CBA, and Georgia’s community banking industry! Read release from ICBA.

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THE LATEST

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Join us for a one-of-a-kind event that is equal parts networking and golf tournament with a friendly competition! This open-air tournament offers a way to connect and raise money for an important cause – CBA’s PAC Fund. Enjoy food, beverages, prizes and support CBA’s PAC.

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THE LATEST

Cheers to CBA’s First Cork Pull PAC/PR Fundraiser

The first Cork Pull fundraiser was held at CBA’s Compliance Officer Bootcamp on St. Simons Island. The cork pull is an initiative from CBA’s LEAD Committee designed to raise capital for the PAC/PR fund. The PAC/PR fund is the fuel that helps Lori Godfrey, John McNair, and the CBA team to promote advocacy for community banks in Georgia.

“Our LEAD committee is always coming up with fun and new ways to support the community banking industry.

And for this group to plan a cork pull for our compliance officers learning week makes it even better,” commented Kristi Greer, CBA SVP-Professional Development. “Special thanks to LEAD Chair Brian Bazemore, President & CEO, The Citizens Bank of Cochran/Community Bank of DublinLaurens County, Dublin. Brian came and set up the wine pull and shared with students how CBA’s advocacy efforts support them directly.”

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SPOTLIGHT

March is Women’s History Month, and we’d like to celebrate the many women serving on CBA committees.

CBA has 14 committees including the association’s Board of Directors.

CBA committees are led by diverse and highly talented community bank professionals from across the state.

This network of volunteers assists CBA with valuable input on professional development programs, advocacy, membership benefits, innovation strategies, products & services and much more.

What do our committee members have to say about volunteering with CBA? One volunteer recently stated, “One of the most rewarding benefits of serving on a CBA committee is the opportunity to join a collaborative environment where you can expand your network, gain different perspectives, and enhance your skill set. It is also where you, as a member, can take an active part in promoting the mission of CBA.” Special thanks to all our committee volunteers. Explore CBA’s wide range of committees and let us know where you’d like to volunteer. You’ll be glad you did!

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SPOTLIGHT

Rising Tide

Jim Reber

President & CEO ICBA Securities

Bonds to own for a rate hike environment.

Community bankers are nothing if not predictable, and I mean that as a compliment. They are bright, enterprising, have a nose for the risk/reward dynamic and a sense of duty and loyalty to their customers and staff. They’re also deathly afraid of rising interest rates.

The last is understandable, speaking as one who has A. worked for a bank when overnight rates were double-digit, B. personally borrowed money for a home at 12%, and C. worked in financial services during the near-death of the thrift industry. We know how low rates can go. What we don’t know is how high they can go, nor for how long.

But what’s a bit curious about this widespread fear is that by a number of measures, community banks in 2022 stand to profit from higher interest rates. This comes from banking regulators, interest rate risk modelers, and even bankers themselves. I suppose the notion of a bond portfolio losing four, five or six percent of its value drives some of this thought process. So, as we haven’t had to endure a rate hike scenario since 2018, we’ll use the rest of this column to remind ourselves which bonds stand a good chance of performing well if higher rates do indeed prevail in the near future.

Old school Certainly, the bonds that fit the most traditional definition of a floater are those which have very short reset periods, are indexed to money market equivalents, and have large or no caps, both periodic and lifetime. The model for such a security is a Small Business Administration (SBA) 7(a) pool.

These securities float based on the prime rate, which is 100% correlated to fed funds. Most SBAs reset monthly or quarterly and have no caps—so wherever prime goes, so goes your yield.

The rub on SBAs, at least from a risk standpoint, is that many of them come with large premium prices of 108, 109 or even higher. This exposes the investor to unwelcome prepayments. Still, the many benefits (have we mentioned 0% risk weighting?) make them attractive to short investors.

It’s not uncommon for them to yield around prime minus 2.75%, which will beat fed funds by about 25 basis points (0.25%). They are true money market alternatives.

Mortgage floaters These days there are few true mortgage-backed securities (MBS) floaters. The ones that do exist usually have an extended period of time with a fixed rate, before they convert to adjustable. This “extended period” can be three, five, seven years or more so they’re really not floaters, yet.

However, the fact that one day they will adjust can help their market value stay relatively stable.

Something new about these is that the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) index is becoming more visible.

SOFR is the U.S. alternative to London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), and it has generally tracked fed funds, so far.

And, since these will have prices closer to par, the investor doesn’t have to take a gigantic bite of prepay risk. Starting yields are wholly dependent on the fixed rate period and other variables, but they deserve a look.

Clip coupons Even if you don’t own a floater, an easy-to-execute trade that will help limit your price volatility is “up-in-coupon” securities. It doesn’t matter if they’re MBS, agencies, or munis: The bigger the stated interest rate, the greater the cash flow and the lower the duration.

The best example of this strategy is a tax-free municipal bond that has a big stated interest rate, or “coupon.” It’s common to see a newly hatched security with a 4% rate, that comes to market at an original issue price of 120 or more. This is a quality to be embraced. For one thing, the fact that the yield is tax-free makes the security less volatile that a taxable bond. If (and when, it appears) interest rates rise, the large interest payments will further help keep the value of the bond from falling off the table.

Do-it-yourself There’s another way to inject floating rate securities into your bond portfolio, and that’s to build them yourself. It’s

M ar c h / A p r i l 2 0 2 2 | G e or g i a C o m m un i ti es F i rs t | 17

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a simple task to buy and own a collection of long-durated municipal bonds—that’s how they typically come to market.

A recent innovation is the ability to execute an interest rate swap to instantly, or at some designated point in the future, turn the munis into floaters.

Interest rate product providers are equipped to price out transactions whereby a community bank can convert a bond, a collection of bonds, or a subsector of your balance sheet into short-duration assets that will see their yields improve every time the Fed has a “policy adjustment.”

Maybe the best news is that these transactions can now be executed in sizes that fit your community bank’s needs.

How many rate hikes might we see this year? That’s the subject of myriad conversations around the board room, water cooler, and ALCOs. I’m pleased to report investments that are built for rising rates can take on a variety of appearances, and are fully accessible to your community bank.

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TRENDS

Beating the CECL Deadline – Without Analysis Paralysis After years of anticipating CECL, January 2023 is within sight. And the compliance deadline won’t be moving.

For many banks, the biggest challenge is simply adopting an unfamiliar process for calculating reserves. Fortunately, regulators have made strides toward minimizing possible disruptions. In fact, they’ve addressed many concerns head on.

Where should banks start?

Regulators believe a bank’s CECL solution should equal the sophistication of its loan portfolio. So they expect different banks to use different solutions to calculate reserves. For banks with fewer losses, overly engineered solutions add no value – one reason solutions based on call report data are popular.

Process complexity can vary greatly among methodologies.

When evaluating solutions, don’t mistake precision for accuracy. No current or past losses to work with? Future loss forecasts more often come from qualitative adjustments than from quantitative adjustments.

Methodologies such as loss rate, remaining life, migration or vintages are less complicated, but generally less precise.

Likewise, other methodologies (i.e., probability of default, discounted cash flows) are more precise, but more difficult to develop. Is it worth the extra work? Many banks say no, preferring to continue using their Q factors to support or defend CECL as they did for their ALLL reserve.

Practical assistance is available Among the varying options for CECL compliance is a solution developed with community banks and their challenges in mind. QwickAnalytics® CECLSolver™ is easy to use and getting started is simple.

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We expect that banks will continue to address qualitative factors. Regulatory statements in regards to assessing the collectability of cash flows have caused many banks to stress — and there’s no need to. We believe banks should continue to utilize qualitative adjustments currently conducted as part of their incurred loss calculation. They’ve been doing this successfully for years. Furthermore, you and your regulators are familiar with and believe in the process.

As for the CECL “forecasting” element, bankers should focus on what might cause future portfolio losses and diminish your ability to collect on loans. Document and quantify your answers, again not mistaking precision for accuracy.

Emphasize being directionally accurate, considering your portfolio plus possible scenarios. If your mortgage portfolio is significant, consider housing prices, unemployment levels, etc. Understand how they’re trending and the potential negative effect of reversals. We can help you update current qualitative adjustments to reflect forward-looking perspectives.

Designed for community banks like yours CECLSolver provides banks with a portfolio-level solution based on call report information — plus the ability to perform more complex loan-level analysis as required. Our approach is to start, monitor and if necessary, adjust.

CECL compliance is as complicated as you want to make it — but delaying the inevitable isn’t the wisest strategy.

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The tool utilizes a weighted average remaining maturity (WARM) focus to automatically display historical losses over WARM periods. This eliminates the need to compile past information, enabling quick, easy analysis of different loss scenarios. CECLSolver also displays loss histories of selected peer groups (UPBR/state/custom) for identical periods. We’ll help you with WARM calculations whether they’re performed by your team (if data is available) or by ours.

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Mark Your Calendars for these Excellent Training Opportunities April 4-7: Mortgage School April 19-21: BSA Fundamentals May 9-11: HR/TD Conference May 22-27: Barrett School of Banking August 22-26: Advanced BSA/AML Officer School September 15-17: Connect – CBA’s Annual Convention October 18-19: Advanced Deposits: Compliance & Audit *NEW CBA continues to provide relevant, timely, and effective education. Find our training calendar on the website or contact one of the “ladies of learning” to discuss your professional development needs and goals.

JANUARY ALLL/CECl TRID Basics (2 days) Credit Analyst Level 1 (2 days) Flood, Appraisals, Applications

APRIL

FEBRUARY Branch Leadership Retail Banking Forum Credit Analyst Level 2 Executive Channel IRA Fundamentals

MAY

Banker Regulatory Forum Branch Leadership BSA Fundamentals Commercial Lending Bootcamp Executive Channel Innovation Exploration Forum Mortgage School Solving CECL Compliance

CBLA 2 CECL Stress Testing Commercial Lending Bootcamp HR Conference + RAP Q2: Compliance TRID Advanced

JULY

AUGUST

MARCH Compliance Officer Bootcamp HR RAP Q1: Compliance GA Deposit Doc CBLA 1 ICBA Live

JUNE

Commercial Lending Bootcamp L.E.A.D. Retreat

SEPTEMBER

Branch Leadership HR RAP

Bank Security Cyber Risk Summit Adv BSA/AML School CBLA 3 Executive Channel

CONNECT: Convention Sept 13-18 Q3: Compliance Retail Banking Forum

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

CBLA 4 Branch Leadership HR RAP Advanced Deposits: Compliance and Audits (2 days) Director’s College 2 2 | ww w. cbao fga.com | Ma rc h / A p ril 2022

Banker Regulatory Forum BSA Update

Executive Channel HR Rap Q4: Compliance

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Education Buzz:

The Benefits of Mentoring Taking time to Reflect. During my 26 years in this industry, I have had several individuals who have poured into me. These people have taken time out of their busy schedules and responsibilities to nurture me. I am forever grateful for the time, energy, and lessons I have gained from these mentoring relationships. So, what are the benefits of mentoring? Lifelong friendships, encouragement, confidence

building, challenging opportunities, growth, learning to stay in your lane, taking risks, staying true to self, and more. When was the last time you took time to sit down and chat with your mentor? Stop and thank your mentor for their honesty and support.

Give your mentor an appreciation treat that supports their learning and confirm their true leadership example. I am forever grateful for my mentors.

High-quality borrowers on demand.

Kristi Greer

Senior Vice President Director of Professional Developent Community Bankers Association of Georgia

2021 BHG borrower:

WA FICO: 736 WA Income: $279,000 Avg Loan Size: $113,900 WA Years in Industry: 20 WA DSCR: 2.5

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BHG, PLEASE CONTACT: Brian Mullett, SVP, Institutional Relationship BrianMullett@em.bhgbanks.com • (315) 400-6192 BHGLoanHub.com/GA

WA = Weighted Average

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Meet the Keynote Speakers at CBA's 54th Annual Convention & Mini-Trade Show

September 14-18, 2022 | Ritz Carlton | Amelia Island, FL

Thursday Morning Stephanie Stuckey—Behind Every Business is a Story Behind every business is a story. And behind every one of those stories is a family and a bank. Bankers are not just loaning money; they are building dreams.

Stephanie will tell her family’s business story. Her story includes the banks who believed in them, seeing more than numbers on a spread sheet, but as real people struggling to build a better life for our families and our stories.

Stephanie explains, “Ours is a story shared by small businesses in small towns across America. And its community banks – not the national chains – that believe in us enough to invest in our dreams.

And those small businesses in small town America have changed the world – from Walmart in Bentonville, Arkansas to Chick-fil-A in Hapeville, GA. And – yes – even Stuckey’s in Eastman, GA.” Stephanie will share the story of how her grandfather founded Stuckey’s, while weaving anecdotes about the close relationship with their community bank providing the capital needed to grow the business.

Brand Revival! Local bank support! How can my community bank advance our business? Join us as we learn the road trips Stuckey’s encountered to help their communities in unique and special ways. Story telling is key to connecting banks with the humanity of what we do. There are stories everywhere and tapping into that can help community bankers be revived bankers and community members. Community banks are restoring family dreams and building communities.

Stephanie Stuckey

Stephanie Stuckey is CEO of Stuckey’s, the highway oasis that’s been serving pecan log rolls and kitschy souvenirs to road trippers since 1937. Founded by her grandfather, W.S. Stuckey, Sr. in Eastman, Georgia, Stuckey’s grew into over 350 stores nationwide by its peak in the 1970’s. The company was sold in 1964 and sadly declined for decades under a series of corporate owners.

Fortunately, Stuckey’s is now in family hands again and making a comeback, with a mission to make road trips fun.

Stephanie received both her undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Georgia. She worked as a trial lawyer, was elected to seven terms as a state representative, ran an environmental nonprofit law firm, served as Director of Sustainability for the City of Atlanta, and taught as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Georgia School of Law. Stephanie purchased Stuckey’s in November of 2019 and assumed the role of CEO at that time. Stephanie’s achievements include being named one of the 100 Most Influential Georgians by Georgia Trend Magazine and a graduate of Leadership Atlanta.

Stephanie Stuckey CEO Stuckey’s

When she’s not running the Stuckey’s candy and pecan shelling plant in Wrens, Georgia or the distribution operations in Eastman, Georgia, Stephanie enjoys traveling by car to explore the back roads of America and pulling over for every roadside oddity and souvenir shop along the way.

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Saturday Morning Keynote Speaker Ray McElroy—To Boldly Go….Stepping out of Ordinary into Extraordinary Through his 20-year motivational speaking initiative, Life Beyond the Game, Ray McElroy, unlike any other, has managed to capture the hearts and minds of youth, organizations and companies nationwide! As an emerging leader in the marketplace, Ray’s amazing and uncanny ability to entertain while delivering a profound message of desire, discipline and dedication has impacted the lives of thousands regardless of gender, age, or profession. Ray’s list of satisfied clients include CITGO, Discover Financial Services, The Chicago Cubs, Christ Advocate Hospital, Precision Payroll of America, and State Farm Insurance; just to name a few. Ray’s fire for seeing individuals, companies, and organizations take their prospective businesses to the next level comes from his athletic background spending six seasons in the NFL from 1995-2001 with the Indianapolis Colts, Detroit Lions, and the Chicago Bears. A native of Chicago and graduate of Eastern Illinois University, Ray also served as Team Chaplain for the Chicago Bears Organization from 2008-2012.

Ray McElroy Life Beyond the Game & Hero Employer Services

In addition to his speaking profession, Ray is devoting his post football career to empowering youth, transforming lives, and making a difference one life and community at a time through his non-profit organization, A Ray of Hope on Earth. Ray puts on youth football camps for at risk, underserved youth. He also runs a mentoring program in Chicago working with approx. 60+ middle school and high school-aged youth per week, and he does all-school assembly programs encouraging youth about the consequences of their choices. Ray also serves as the associate pastor of teaching and outreach at Central Christian Church in Beloit, WI. If that isn’t enough, his newly developed venture is AIM which stands for Activating Intentional Marriages. Through this initiative, Ray and his wife Michelle use their 25 years of marital experience to coach couples in business, churches, and those in professional athletics; equipping them with the tools necessary to take their game to the next level relationally. Whether he is delivering an encouraging word at his church or on game day to NFL players, speaking at school assemblies or youth programs, or challenging businesses on how to boldly go where they haven’t been before, Ray is truly committed to delivering tangible, life-changing results to his audience.

Register Today

Reserve Your Room

Agenda

Donate to Auction Exhibits & Sponsorships

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FULL SERVICE DESIGN-BUILD ARCHITECTURE & ENGINEERING RETAIL & INTERIOR DESIGN & FURNISHINGS CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SITE & MARKET ANALYSIS BRANDING & MARKETING Eclipse Brand Builders is an award-winning commercial design-build firm with unparalleled experience in the financial industry. We partner with financial institutions throughout the Southeast as a single source of responsibility for comprehensive consulting, design and construction services, which we provide with an unwavering commitment to honesty, integrity and helping our clients achieve long-term success.

NEW CONSTRUCTION RENOVATIONS & REMODELS www.eclipsebrandbuilders.com 678.894.4360

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

In cooperation with the CBA of Georgia, Crescent Mortgage is proud to sponsor the reboot of the Mortgage School. This school is targeted at both bankers who want to enter the secondary market mortgage space and those that are already seasoned in mortgage origination. Participants will be able to choose to attend either in person or virtually over two 2-day sessions (totaling 4 days / 32 total hours of instruction). Inperson sessions will be held at Crescent Mortgage headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia. The Mortgage School will focus on the roles and functions within residential mortgage banking.

Session 1: April 4 • 9am-4pm The first module will cover the basic business model of mortgage lending and how the overall industry affects the economy. After laying the groundwork, we will move into loan products and programs. Wrapping up the first module, we will cover the mortgage process from origination to closing. Speakers: Fowler Williams, Skip Willcox Session 2: April 5 • 9am-4pm The second module of the Mortgage School will focus on the various laws, legislation, and compliance that govern the mortgage world. We will be providing an overview of laws pertaining to fair lending, consumer protection, servicing, credit, privacy, etc. We will also be covering how mortgage servicing and secondary marketing play into the day-to-day life of an originator. Speakers: Skip Willcox, Speaker TBD Session 3: April 6 • 9am-4pm The third module moves into ground-level origination. We will begin with a focus on the URLA and taking an effective application. From there, we will cover reading sales contracts, appraisals, and title work. We will build an understanding of the documents, as well as learn common mistakes, red flags, etc. from an origination and underwriting standpoint.

Speakers: Bob Shellenberger, Mark Chapman

Fowler Williams AMP, CMB President & Chief Executive Officer Crescent Mortgage Company

Skip Willcox Crescent Mortgage Company

Session 4: April 7 • 9am-4pm In this final module of the 2021 Mortgage School, we will focus on prospecting and business development. How to fill your pipeline, prospect effectively, sell past rate and price. Using phone, email, text messaging effectively. Cross-selling strategies, etc. Time will also be dedicated to “bringing it all together” and course review and feedback.

Speakers: Brooke Holt, Skip Willcox, Fowler Williams

Choose 1, 2, 3 or all 4 sessions!

Bob Shellenberger Senior Vice President / Correspondent & Wholesale Lending Crescent Mortgage Company

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Compliance Professionals Package: Join before Quarter 1

Each member can send their first attendee complimentary to all four quarterly training sessions plus receive all the benefits above. Detailed electronic manuals are provided one-week prior to each compliance program which incorporates regulatory compliance requirements including the latest federal legislation and guidance from the federal financial institution regulatory agencies. Members may use the link to download and print their own materials.

Banks who participate in the Compliance Professionals Package will receive discounts on registrations for additional Compliance related-professional development opportunities including (these are listed in the order offered for 2022): • Compliance Officer Bootcamp, St. Simons Island (4-day school) – March • Georgia Deposit Documentation – March • BSA/AML Fundamentals – April • TRID: Advanced (1-day workshop) – May • Advanced BSA Officer School, St. Simons Island (4-day school) – August • NEW: Advanced Deposits: Compliance and Audits (2-day workshop) – October • BSA/AML Update - November • And more

LEARN MORE AND JOIN!

2022 NEW Topics - Quarterly Education Programs Include: Q1: How to Ensure Compliance with Deposit Regulations North GA - March 22, 2022 Macon - March 23, 2022 Tifton - March 29, 2022 Statesboro - March 30, 2022 Q2: Protect Your Customer – Protect Your Institution *TBD - May 3, 2022 Macon - May 4, 2022 Tifton - May 10, 2022 Statesboro - May 11, 2022 Q3: Fair Lending, UDAAP, and CRA Tifton - September 20, 2022 Macon - September 21, 2022 *TBD - September 27, 2022 Statesboro - September 28, 2022 Q4: To Be Determined – *TBD - November 29, 2022 Macon - November 30, 2022

CBA’s Swaggin’ Wagon Sporting a Fresh Look #OleSwags #CBASwagginWagon

Thanks to the Swaggin’ Wagon Sponsors

BANK COMPENSATION CONSULTING

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

April Farlow has spent over 15 years motivating audiences to get out of their comfort zone, speak up and represent their values. As a corporate trainer, April has taught over 20,000 individuals and honed her skills to motivate hard-to-reach audiences. She has ranked in the top 1% of facilitators out of 3,000 for Dale Carnegie Training.

April delivers! On topics such as vision development, self-confidence, presentation skills, and leadership, she has led to measurable behavioral change impacting the bottom line in multiple industries. Organizations who have heard from April include UPS (United Parcel Service), CDC (Centers for Disease Control), Federal Home Loan Bank Atlanta, Home Depot, Kroger Company, Spanx, Chick-Fil-A, Wal-Mart, Magic Wand Foundation, Abbot, and Mitsubishi Electric.

LEARN MORE & REGISTER TODAY!

SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE

Keynote Speaker April Farlow

CBA Group Rate is available now through Monday, May 23, 2022. Please call, 800-342-0212, and reference the Community Bankers Association of Georgia to book your room.

Closing SBA loans keeps doors open.

Small businesses count on your expertise.

You can count on ours.

Your customers have never needed capital more than they do right now. Plus you need to offset narrowing margins by increasing noninterest fee income.

SBA/USDA lending is the perfect answer. And ICBA recommends just one provider to make the process hassle-free: Holtmeyer & Monson. Give customers exactly what they need, at no net cost to your bank.

Call 800.340.7304 to start www.holtandmon.com

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ICS and CDARS are now called ®

®

CDARS and ICS deposit solutions are now IntraFi® Network Deposits .

SM

And all of our funding products are called IntraFi Funding .

SM

IntraFi Network Deposits can help your institution manage its balance sheet and provide its customers with access to millions in FDIC insurance.

And, we still offer our full range of wholesale funding solutions. IntraFi Funding offers flexible funding solutions to help banks of all sizes meet planned or unexpected needs, regardless of their liquidity position.

Same great products.

New names.

IntraFi.com Use of IntraFi Network Deposits and IntraFi Funding are subject to the terms, conditions, and disclosures set forth in the applicable program agreements, including the IntraFi Participating Institution Agreement. Network Deposits, IntraFi Funding, and the IntraFi hexagon are service marks, and IntraFi, ICS, and CDARS are registered service marks, of IntraFi Network LLC.

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Choose 1 or All 3 Sessions!

Instructor: Jeffery Johnson Bankers Insight Group

REGISTER TODAY!

The purpose of the CLB is to assist community banks to grow their own Commercial Lenders internally over an extended period. Candidates will be taught vital skills required to be successful in Commercial Lending by properly weighting credit risk versus an acceptable return for the financial institution. The overall concept of the CLB is exposing candidates to specific topics in Commercial Lending and allowing time to practice the knowledge gained from that topic before the next session.

During the following sessions, candidates will be able to share their experience and ask questions about the actual application of techniques.

April 27-28: SESSION ONE Day 1: Review Current Banking Environment and Know Sources to Stay Updated on the Banking Environment: Know the Rules of Banking Before You Play the Game of Banking by Reviewing Key Regulatory Guidance Governing Commercial and Commercial Real Estate Lending Day 2: Review Accounting Principles and the Requirements Under Generally Accepting Accounting Principles to Produce Reliable Financial Statement: Detail Review and Analysis of Financial Statements and Tax Returns May 18-19 : SESSION TWO Day 1: Credit & Financial Ratio Analysis to Determine Financial Strength and Understanding Various Borrowing Causes and Matching with the Proper Loan Structure Utilizing Financial Impact Analysis, Asset Conversion and Fixed Asset Conversion Cycle Day 2: Cash Flow and Global Cash Flow Analysis Utilizing Methodologies Commonly Utilized in the Banking Industry and Utilizing Information Gained to Forecast Future Performance and Sustainable Growth Rate June 8-9: SESSION THREE Day 1: Writing an Effective Credit Memorandum Utilizing All Concepts Reviewed in the Commercial Lending Bootcamp Day 2: Credit Administration Issues including: Loan Grading, Loan Review, Problem Loan Management, and Identifying Trouble Debt Restructurings

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

RAP Sessions • Conference • Legal Hot-Line • And More!!

Get a jumpstart on 2022 by securing your place in the starting lineup. Plan to take advantage of HR/TD R.A.P Sessions in 2022. They are strategically scheduled in March, July, October, and December. The R.A.P Sessions will be facilitated by CBA Team members and CBA Associate Members that possess a strong HR background with knowledge in topics such as employee recruitment, retention, engagement, performance, HR law and other Human Resource topics. These sessions will also offer ample opportunity for networking and learning from other community bank human resource associates.

The HR/TD Conference is set on the beautiful Jekyll Island at The Westin from May 9 – 11. Another benefit of the league is access to a law team to pose questions. Be a part of a league of Human Resources professionals and continue growing knowledge to support your community bank.

Hotel Information CBA Group Rate is available now through Monday, April 18, 2022. Please click here or call, 912-635-4545, and reference Community Bankers Association of Georgia to book your room.

Learn more and register today!

Empowering You To Serve Your Business Customers Better Than You Do Today If you’re looking for ways to help merchants pay, get paid, optimize and grow, Fitech by Deluxe specializes in the payment technology and business solutions to help you do just that.

From startups to well-established businesses, our strategies, our products and our solutions are designed to amplify the productivity of the customers you serve and to maximize your profitability.

As former bankers, merchant services insiders and payments industry experts, we understand the challenges you face, and we deliver meaningful services to grow your non-interest income portfolio.

• Point of sale, ecommerce and software integrations • HR & payroll solutions • Flexible, scalable programs built for every vertical • Unmatched service and support

Leverage our solutions to gain a competitive edge in today’s competitive digital marketplace!

Sarah Humphrey, Director of Sales shumphrey@fitech.com 254.485.0552 FI_00212

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

CBA’s New & Exciting Professional Development Innovation Bundle

Innovation touches every area and person in your bank, employee and customer alike. So how do you keep up without having to play catch up?

Our NEW Innovation Exploration Bundle is an express route for your innovation journey. With micro learning, forums, networking, vendor resources, in-person and virtual training, and bank visits to see the latest innovations in action, you won’t want to miss out on this bundle.

Don’t miss our first event Innovation Exploration & Retail Banking Forum Meeting Together April 20 Forum What is included in the bundle?

• 2 - One-day Sessions - April 20 & TBD • 1 - Conference (October or November - Coming Soon) REGISTER TODAY! • 4 - Micro Learnings (virtual) • Foundations in FinTech SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE • Regulatory Scrutiny of BAAS Partnerships (May TBD) • Implementing Deposit Programs (July TBD) • Implementing Credit Programs (October TBD) • Bankers Helping Bankers Platform Access (NEW platform to cut our research time for looking at technology tools/platforms) • Reduced pricing on CBLA, Cyber Summit, CONNECT (Convention) - for the bank’s Innovation bundle employee only • 1 - $150 Coupon towards a CBA Professional Development Program (cannot be used for above listed programs) • 1 -Complimentary Webinar: FedNow Faster Payments, Future, Feasibility Topics Covered: CBA is working with a variety of subject matter experts, associate members, fintech and innovation resources to develop up to date and beneficial educational opportunities to support our community banking industry. We strive to offer tools to support your strategies, values and goals to remain independent and relevant in the banking industry.

Making the Leap to Digital | Keeping Branches Visible | What’s your bank’s landscape? | Leveraging Technology Innovation in Action | Foundations of FinTech | and much more!

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Inspired by CBA’s LEAD Committee, the Community Bank Leadership Academy is designed specifically for the future community bank leader. This series of four sessions will benefit the attendees through individual selfdiscovery, personal and professional growth and career development. Each participant will walk away with their own personal development plan. The workshops are designed to bring continuity and sustainable accomplishments which will allow each participant to build positive influence, team connections, and ongoing learning resources. The Academy aims to support Georgia’s community banks in the development of its people so that these bankers will become impactful leaders of influence - for the bank, themselves, and their communities. Participants who consecutively attend & participate in all four sessions in a calendar year will receive a Certificate of Completion.

The “Tool Belt” Leaders choose to professionally grow their knowledge. This series will encourage not only workshop participation but also ongoing selfdevelopment. The sessions are designed to build upon each other so that each leader can create action plans for successful practice in their banks. You will see value plus change.

​Session I: March 8-9, 2022 Winning Together: Becoming the Leader Your Team Needs & Wants Session II: May 17-18, 2022 Leadership Impact & ​ Mindset Training Session III: August 9-10, 2022 More than Words, Communication Session Session IV: October 4-5, 2022 ​Utilizing the Tool Belt​ in Your Bank

“Leadership is getting results in a way that inspires trust! I learned this during our first session with April Farlow.” — Marty Green, Sr. Vice President, Family Bank

Stay on top of the latest innovation news and events. CBA has partnered with the four major fintech organizations—ATDC, Fintech Atlanta, Georgia Fintech Academy and TAG. The Innovation Circuit blog includes events from these organizations, thought leadership articles, ICBA news, partner webinars and much more. Check it out!

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CBA’S 2022 PREFERRED SERVICE PROVIDERS DIAMOND LEVEL

ICBA Securities

Jim Reber | jreber@icbasecurities.com | 901.762.5884 Independent Community Bankers of America

Scott Brown | scott.brown@icba.org | 334.328.5731 James Bates Brannan Groover LLP

Dan Brannan | dbrannan@jamesbatesllp.com | 404.997.6023 SHAZAM

Alex Jernigan | jjernig@Shazam.net | 229.220.0064 PLATINUM LEVEL

Genesys Technology Group, LLC

David Saylor | david@genesystg.com | 770.729.4139 Harland Clarke

Christine Ahlgren | christine.ahlgren@harlandclarke.com | 678.500.5330 Warren Averett

Lisa Berry | lisa.berry@warrenaverett.com | 205.769.3388 Wipfli Mary Boortz | mboortz@wipfli.com | 715.858.6677 GOLD LEVEL

SILVER LEVEL ACG

Phil Winn | Phil.Winn@acgworld.com | 678.458.9899​ BCC-USA

Bankers Healthcare Group

John Gianacaci | JGianacaci@BCC-USA.com | 609.915.9168

Crescent Mortgage

Shea Gabrielleschi | shea@shcpfoundation.org | 901.529.4773

Eclipse Brand Builders

Ryan Sower | ryan@executiveinsuranceagency.com | 770.474.2355

FITECH

Ryan Busenitz | Ryan.Busenitz@kasasa.com | 678.595.0625

Holtmeyer & Monson

Melissa Wallace | melissa.wallace@qwickrate.com | 678.797.4062

Brian Mullett | bmullett@bhg-inc.com | 315.663.1121 Skip Willcox | swillcox@crescentmortgage.net | 478.357.4441 Michael Smith | msmith@eclipsebrandbuilders.com | 678.890.1140 Matt Mingenback | mmingenback@fitech.com | 316.518.8850 Arne Monson | amonson@holtandmon.com | 800.340.7304 IntraFi Network

Danny Capitel | dcapitel@promnetwork.com | 770.630.6796 Mauldin & Jenkins Ron Mitchell | rmitchell@mjcpa.com | 229.446.3600

CRA Partners

Executive Insurance Agency, Inc. Kasasa

QwickRate

BRONZE LEVEL

AgoraEversole

Chis Bates | chris@agoraeversole.com | 601.366.7370 Bahr Consultants, Inc.

Newcleus Bank Advisors

Hank Bahr | hank@bahrconsultantsinc.com | 865.694.6098

Point to Point Environmental

Greg Herring | gtherring@darnelrecovery.com | 770.786.4500

JR Llewellyn | jr.llewellyn@newcleus.com | 678.427.1015 Mark Faas | mfaas@p2penvironmental.com | 678.565.4435 Ext 151 STS Group

Chris Nelson | cnelson@stsgrp.com | 205.567.3613 Travelers

Diana Baker | dcbaker@travelers.com | 678.317.7882

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DARNEL, Inc.

Interested in becoming a Preferred Service Provider?

The Preferred Service Provider packages offers Associate Members the option of upgrading to package of your choice. A few benefits include early access to advertising, exhibiting and sponsorship opportunities, simplified budgeting and of course – increased exposure! All packages are reviewed by CBA’s Member Services Committee. To learn more, please contact Lindsay Greene at 770.541.0376.

MEMBER SERVICES

#ILoveMyCommunityBank #BankLocalGA #GoLocal

Let CBA Help Your Bank Celebrate!

April is Community Banking Month and CBA and community banks across Georgia are recognizing the unique spirit that makes community banks the foundation of their communities in cities and towns throughout the state.

“Community Banking Month recognizes the significant role community banks play in stimulating their local economies,” stated John McNair, President & CEO of CBA. “Now is the perfect time to recognize the significant impact community banks are making across Georgia.”

CBA has produced banner ads in a variety of sizes for your bank’s website.

For more information, contact Lindsay Greene at (770) 541-0376, or visit the Community Banking Month section on the CBA website.

BANKING CHANGES. OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU NEVER DOES.

• • • • •

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE FREE RESOURCES FROM CBA:

Press release for member banks to distribute to local media Ways to Celebrate Community Banking Month

Community Banking Month Employee Fact Sheet Community Banking Month Customizable Op Ed Banner ads for your website

1964

2011

2021

Travelers becomes one of the first domestic markets to write Directors & Officers Liability insurance

Travelers CyberRisk coverage is introduced to the market

Travelers distributes more than $4 million to ICBA members participating in the policyholder dividend program

Throughout our long history, we’ve stayed focused on keeping community banks on the cutting edge. We do this with industry-leading specialists, expertise and offerings – all backed with local banking knowledge.

Learn more at travelers.com/business-insurance/financial-institutions travelers.com Travelers Casualty and Surety Company of America and its property casualty affiliates. One Tower Square, Hartford, CT 06183 This material does not amend, or otherwise affect, the provisions or coverages of any insurance policy or bond issued by Travelers. It is not a representation that coverage does or does not exist for any particular claim or loss under any such policy or bond. Coverage depends on the facts and circumstances involved in the claim or loss, all applicable policy or bond provisions, and any applicable law. Availability of coverages referenced in this document may depend on underwriting qualifications and state regulations. © 2022 The Travelers Indemnity Company. All rights reserved. Travelers and the Travelers Umbrella logo are registered trademarks of The Travelers Indemnity Company in the U.S. and other countries. CP-9620 New 2-22

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MEMBER SERVICES

CBA’s Memorial Scholarship Applications Due April 15th!

The Community Bankers Association of Georgia (CBA) is proud to offer the 2022 Julian & Jan Hester Memorial Scholarship and the J. Steven Walraven Scholarship!

The Hester Scholarship is open to Georgia high school seniors who will be entering a Georgia college, university or technical school (two year program or more) in the fall semester of 2022. The scholarship is named after the late Jan Hester, daughter of Lalia and the late Julian Hester, long-time CEO of the CBA. The four winning recipients will be awarded a $1,000 scholarship.

CBA’s Leadership Division proudly assists with this initiative.

The Walraven Scholarship is awarded in the amount of

$500 to a bank employee who desires to continue their education while working full-time at a CBA member bank. The scholarship is named after the late J. Steven Walraven, an active community banker who exemplified professionalism and community involvement. To compete, employees must write a short essay on how community banking has impacted their life and how it will enable them to give back to their community.

Applications for either scholarship should be returned to the bank no later than Friday, April 8, 2022. All completed applications should be submitted by the bank to CBA no later than Friday, April 15, 2022. Only complete applications will be eligible. A panel of independent judges will review the applications and winners will be announced in late April 2022.

Please visit www.cbaofga.com to download the scholarship applications and encourage participation from your community. For more information, please contact Lindsay Greene at lindsay@cbaofga.com.

At Stokes Carmichael & Ernst LLP, we have been bringing “The Power of Legal Knowledge®” to the challenges faced by the financial community in the areas of credit and collections, banking litigation, fraudulent conveyance litigation, bankruptcy representation, defense of lawsuits, and loan workouts since we opened in 1972.

Our clients appreciate the “Real World Legal Solutions®” that we bring to the myriad legal matters facing banks today.

We welcome the opportunity to put our experience to work for you. Please contact us to discuss how we can help you optimize recoveries for your bank.

Stokes Carmichael & Ernst LLP scelaw.com | mje@scelaw.com 404.352.1465 x441

THE POWER OF LEGAL KNOWLEDGE®

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MEMBER SERVICES

A Scholarship Designed for Adult Learners Working at a Georgia Community Bank The McNair Family Scholarship recognizes and honors the achievements of Nicholas (Nick) R. Cimino. The scholarship will be awarded once per year to an adult learner who is currently employed at a Georgia community bank and plans to work towards an associate, bachelors, or trade degree. An adult learner is someone two years removed from high school and working at least 25 hours per week at a Georgia community bank. The award is for $1,000.00 and will be paid directly to the institution of higher learning to offset student expenses (tuition, study materials, and expenses).

Nick Cimino was born in 1936 and lost his father at an early age. The youngest of two children, Nick was required to go to work after school to help support his mother and older sister- who were also working. When Nick graduated high school, funding for college was unavailable. A naturally talented artist, Nick took a job as a graphic designer and worked until he was drafted by “I hope I inspire someone the Army. After an honorable discharge (1961), Nick went back to work in graphic design. He later decided to use to go back to school no matter the G.I. bill to obtain further education how long it takes.” and make a career change. In 1964, Nick enrolled in night school to pursue a ~ Nick Cimino college degree. The following year, he married the former Maryann Costaldo.

Nick and Maryann started their family with the birth of Lisa (Cimino) McNair and two additional children followed. The endeavor to balance work, family and school was a challenge but perseverance prevailed. After eight years of night school, Nick graduated in 1972 with a bachelor’s degree in marketing from LaSalle University (Philadelphia, PA).

Nick went on to have a successful career in sales and marketing with AMP Incorporated and retired in 2000 as a Global Account Director for the Consumer Appliance Division. During his tenure, Nick achieved many awards including AMP’s U.S. Marketing Manager of the Year (1987) and the U.S. Sales & Marketing President’s Excellence Club (1996). Nick and Maryann are comfortably retired, have three adult children, and three beautiful granddaughters.

APPLY TODAY M ar c h / A p r i l 2 0 2 2 | G e or g i a C o m m un i ti es F i rs t | 39

TARGET YOUR AUDIENCE Check out our Advertising & Sponsorship Options

If you want to target top decision makers in Georgia’s community banking industry, you will find the CBA offers numerous ways to help you accomplish your goals and stretch your marketing dollars. Show your support for CBA and promote your business at the same time. If you have questions, please contact Lindsay Greene at lindsay@cbaofga.com or (770) 541-0376.

Georgia Communities First Magazine

Published six times a year, Georgia Communities First provides coverage of community banking industry trends and developments both on a state and national level.

CBA Today eNewsletter Advertising

Published weekly, CBA Today has a distribution of over 5,000. This digital newsletter includes information on upcoming association events, educational opportunities, associate members, as well as state and national industry news.

CBA Website Advertising

CBA’s website, www.cbaofga.com, is the source of information for all things CBA. Ad space is available on a monthly basis and can link to your home page or the destination of your choice.

So many new programs… so many ways to stand out with sponsorships. Learn more!

Results that transform It’s not enough to know how you measure up to the competition.

You have to take action.

That’s why Wipfli created the financial & operational advisory subscription, providing you each quarter with the analysis and strategy you need to secure your future.

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Learn more at wipfli.com/foasb-cba

MEMBER SERVICES

Celebrate Employee Milestone Anniversaries Lifetime Service Awards Community Bankers Association of Georgia (CBA) is proud to honor bankers who have reached a significant milestone in the banking industry with the Lifetime Service Awards. CBA will honor those who are planning to retire in this calendar year with 30 or more years of service in the community banking industry. The presentation will be made during a special event at the employee’s bank or at CBA’s Annual Meeting & Trade Show.

Each recipient will be honored by CBA through the following: • An engraved plaque • A press release and photo shared with their bank for their local media • A feature on CBA’s website and in the CBA Today eNewsletter • Honorees with 50+ years in the banking industry will receive a customized gold and diamond lapel pin ​ ​If you know a community banker who will reach the milestone of 30, 40 or 50 years of banking experience this year and has a proven record in excellent community involvement, please nominate the banker by using the online form on CBA’s website.

Nominations should be submitted by the bank’s President and/ or CEO and should include detailed information on the individual’s accomplishments. Contact Lindsay Greene for additional details or call CBA at (770) 541-4490.

EXECUTIVE INSURANCE AGENCY, INC.

Call Us for All Your Collateral Insurance Needs!

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VSI Flood Creditor Placed Collateral Protection

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REO GAP Blanket Tracking Services

Executive Insurance is a Preferred Service Provider of the CBA of Georgia, and has been working with community banks in Georgia since 1980.

We are totally committed to the future of community banking and consequently are setting the standard in service, knowledge and innovation in this very important area. We encourage you to call on us for a comprehensive review of your specific needs.

Mr. Ryan Sower • P.O. Box 480 • Stockbridge, GA 30281-0480 770-474-2355 • 800-772-1404 • www.executiveinsuranceagency.com M ar c h / A p r i l 2 0 2 2 | G e or g i a C o m m un i ti es F i rs t | 41

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