CBA of Georgia recently welcomed Becky Soto as Assistant Vice President in the Professional Development team. Becky has over 15 years’ experience working with community banks and appreciates the important role community banks play all across our state and country. She has extensive knowledge in Retail Banking serving as a Teller, Assistant Manager, and working in Retail Administration providing back room support to multiple Financial Centers.
Becky spent several years working as a Training Specialist providing educational support to all areas of the bank. Most recently she worked in the Financial Department of Oconee State Bank, handling Accounts Payable and as Internal Control Specialist providing bank-wide internal audit support. She currently serves as Chair of the Oglethorpe County Board of Education and is active as both an alumni and facilitator for the Leadership Oglethorpe Program.
“We are beyond ecstatic for Becky to join our team at CBA. Her passion, skills, knowledge and willingness to learn will allow us to continue raising the bar on professional development offerings for our bankers," said Kristi Greer, SVP, Professional Development. "As an assistant vice president for professional development, she will serve as a program leader which will build on our effective & efficient adult learning processes such as needs assessments and program evaluations that will in turn ensure CBA of GA is offering the best education opportunities in our state. Becky will serve as staff liaison for CBA’s L.E.A.D. board of directors and representatives while coordinating all L.E.A.D. initiatives.” Read the full press release.
Becky spent several years working as a Training Specialist providing educational support to all areas of the bank. Most recently she worked in the Financial Department of Oconee State Bank, handling Accounts Payable and as Internal Control Specialist providing bank-wide internal audit support. She currently serves as Chair of the Oglethorpe County Board of Education and is active as both an alumni and facilitator for the Leadership Oglethorpe Program.
“We are beyond ecstatic for Becky to join our team at CBA. Her passion, skills, knowledge and willingness to learn will allow us to continue raising the bar on professional development offerings for our bankers," said Kristi Greer, SVP, Professional Development. "As an assistant vice president for professional development, she will serve as a program leader which will build on our effective & efficient adult learning processes such as needs assessments and program evaluations that will in turn ensure CBA of GA is offering the best education opportunities in our state. Becky will serve as staff liaison for CBA’s L.E.A.D. board of directors and representatives while coordinating all L.E.A.D. initiatives.” Read the full press release.
Wells Fargo Fined $3B for Consumer Abuses; Highlights Distinction for Community Banks
On Friday, February 21st, Wells Fargo settled with the Justice Department and the Securities and Exchange Commission to pay $3 billion to settle potential federal criminal and civil charges where the bank’s aggressive sales goals led to widespread consumer abuses, including millions of accounts opened without customers’ consent.
Media coverage referenced Wells Fargo’s “community banking division” stating “Top managers within Wells Fargo's Community Bank division were aware of the "unlawful and unethical" practices as early as 2002, and many of the practices were referred to as "gaming" within the bank, the Justice Department said.”
“Continuing to educate customers, communities and the media about the difference between community banks and other financial institutions is more important than ever,” explained John McNair, President & CEO of Community Bankers Association of Georgia (CBA). “Georgia’s community bankers formed CBA 52 years ago to help community banks differentiate their business model from large, out of state mega banks like Wells Fargo and others. Should any of our members need assistance with media inquiries, CBA stands ready, willing and fully able to assist as needed."
The ICBA website provides resources that community banks can use to promote the difference between national megabanks and community banks that benefit local communities. See more from ICBA.
On Friday, February 21st, Wells Fargo settled with the Justice Department and the Securities and Exchange Commission to pay $3 billion to settle potential federal criminal and civil charges where the bank’s aggressive sales goals led to widespread consumer abuses, including millions of accounts opened without customers’ consent.
Media coverage referenced Wells Fargo’s “community banking division” stating “Top managers within Wells Fargo's Community Bank division were aware of the "unlawful and unethical" practices as early as 2002, and many of the practices were referred to as "gaming" within the bank, the Justice Department said.”
“Continuing to educate customers, communities and the media about the difference between community banks and other financial institutions is more important than ever,” explained John McNair, President & CEO of Community Bankers Association of Georgia (CBA). “Georgia’s community bankers formed CBA 52 years ago to help community banks differentiate their business model from large, out of state mega banks like Wells Fargo and others. Should any of our members need assistance with media inquiries, CBA stands ready, willing and fully able to assist as needed."
The ICBA website provides resources that community banks can use to promote the difference between national megabanks and community banks that benefit local communities. See more from ICBA.
CBA is Your Legislative Advocate: Video
CBA's top priority is to serve as your legislative advocate at the capitol. Without CBA's efforts, SB157 would not have passed through the general assembly, bringing massive benefits to communities across the state. In this video, hear how important it is for your local legislators to hear your voice and hear how legislation can impact you and your bank.
CBA's top priority is to serve as your legislative advocate at the capitol. Without CBA's efforts, SB157 would not have passed through the general assembly, bringing massive benefits to communities across the state. In this video, hear how important it is for your local legislators to hear your voice and hear how legislation can impact you and your bank.
In order to achieve our goals, we will need the help of your institution, Board members, officers, and employees. Be sure to contribute to the CBA Political Action Committee and Public Relations (PAC/PR) Fund so we can make your voice heard. Your contributions are greatly appreciated and will go towards the only Georgia State PAC exclusively committed to representing the interests in community banks. Click here for contribution forms. For more information, contact Lori Godfrey.
Georgia’s community bankers do great things in their communities every day. Here is the latest on community outreach and news from CBA Members:
- Tippins Bank, Claxton, recently received the Business of the Year award at the Claxton- Evans Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet. In addition, Andrea Sapp was awarded the Distinguished Service Award.
- The Student Council for The Citizens Bank of Laurens County, Dublin, recently prepared and distributed goodie bags for over 50 residents at The Dublin Place.
Dan Duchnowski has joined Planters First Bank, Perry, as Chief Deposit Officer/Chief Marketing Officer.
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Caroline Nelson has joined Bulloch First, Statesboro, as Vice President of Commercial Lending.
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Abby Donaldson, Bulloch First, Statesboro, has been promoted to Assistant Vice President.
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Connie Hensley Barton, Heritage First Bank, Rome, has been promoted to Assistant Vice President and Loan Operations Manager.
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Jamaal Almond has joined Providence Bank, Alpharetta, as a Commercial Lender.
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Edgar Chapman, Senior Executive Officer at Talbot State Bank, Woodland, recently celebrated 55 years in banking.
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Think CBA First for Your Professional Development Needs!
Be sure to think of CBA first when it comes to your training and Professional Development needs. Here are some upcoming CBA events:
Be sure to think of CBA first when it comes to your training and Professional Development needs. Here are some upcoming CBA events:
FDIC Proposed Rule: Brokered Deposits
Today’s deposit products include a vast and quickly evolving array of deposit placement arrangements, including but not limited to, brokered certificates of deposit, brokerage sweep accounts, prepaid card programs, health savings accounts, and deposit products involving online or mobile parties. This evolution of deposit placement arrangements has resulted in the FDIC proposing changes to its current regulations in order to keep up with the changes in the banking industry and how consumers interact with financial institutions. Read the full article. Guest article from James-Bates-Brannan-Groover-LLP, a Diamond-Level Preferred Service Provider.
Today’s deposit products include a vast and quickly evolving array of deposit placement arrangements, including but not limited to, brokered certificates of deposit, brokerage sweep accounts, prepaid card programs, health savings accounts, and deposit products involving online or mobile parties. This evolution of deposit placement arrangements has resulted in the FDIC proposing changes to its current regulations in order to keep up with the changes in the banking industry and how consumers interact with financial institutions. Read the full article. Guest article from James-Bates-Brannan-Groover-LLP, a Diamond-Level Preferred Service Provider.
CBA Provides Alternative Training Solutions!
South Georgia Bank, Glennville, wanted to train multiple employees at one time and called CBA First! Brooke Wall and CBA’s Professional Development Director, Kristi Greer, worked together to meet this need. 25 employees learned from CBA Associate Member John Sillay, Adams-Hemingway, Wilson & Rutledge on topics including how to ensure your commercial accounts are set up correctly with proper documentation.
"We have been searching for a way to broaden our educational offerings to a larger segment of our staff," commented Bran Thompson, CEO of the bank. "Our Internal Auditor, Brooke Wall, reached out to Kristi Greer at CBA with our concerns and within a few days, Kristi proposed an 'On Site' training solution that allowed us to include 25 staff members. The results were fantastic and an indicator of how CBA is committed to working with its members to accommodate their training needs."
If you are interested in any in-bank training, or other alternative training solutions from CBA, please contact Kristi Greer at 770-541-4495.
South Georgia Bank, Glennville, wanted to train multiple employees at one time and called CBA First! Brooke Wall and CBA’s Professional Development Director, Kristi Greer, worked together to meet this need. 25 employees learned from CBA Associate Member John Sillay, Adams-Hemingway, Wilson & Rutledge on topics including how to ensure your commercial accounts are set up correctly with proper documentation.
"We have been searching for a way to broaden our educational offerings to a larger segment of our staff," commented Bran Thompson, CEO of the bank. "Our Internal Auditor, Brooke Wall, reached out to Kristi Greer at CBA with our concerns and within a few days, Kristi proposed an 'On Site' training solution that allowed us to include 25 staff members. The results were fantastic and an indicator of how CBA is committed to working with its members to accommodate their training needs."
If you are interested in any in-bank training, or other alternative training solutions from CBA, please contact Kristi Greer at 770-541-4495.
Scenes from South Georgia Bank
Don't Miss Out: Register Today for CBA's Retail Banking Forum
Tuesday, March 3, 2020 | Idle Hour Country Club, Macon
The Retail Banking Forum provides a platform and an opportunity for retail banking officers to exchange ideas freely and examine pressing issues in today's ever-evolving regulatory, cost-conscience, and results-driven environment. The agenda for each session is based on input from participants in the forum group and the facilitator. Also, subject matter experts will be brought in to cover specific pressing forum topics. Click here for the flyer. Register here.
Tuesday, March 3, 2020 | Idle Hour Country Club, Macon
The Retail Banking Forum provides a platform and an opportunity for retail banking officers to exchange ideas freely and examine pressing issues in today's ever-evolving regulatory, cost-conscience, and results-driven environment. The agenda for each session is based on input from participants in the forum group and the facilitator. Also, subject matter experts will be brought in to cover specific pressing forum topics. Click here for the flyer. Register here.
Practice Your Golf Swing: Cash, Cruises, Airline Tickets and More Could Be Yours!
It may surprise you to find out that a hole in one is achieved somewhere in the world every 3,500 rounds on average. CBA is offering an amazing line-up of prizes for those who get the prized Hole in One.
Mark your calendar for CBA’s Spring Golf Tournaments April 15th at Doublegate Country Club in Albany, and April 23rd at The Georgia Club in Statham.
What Can You Win?
Harland Clarke is sponsoring the $10,000 Hole in One Cash Split at both tournaments. Associate Members: claim your sponsorship of one of these great prizes, only $200 each.
Learn more about these tournaments and the TopGolf event in Atlanta on April 14th. Proceeds from these events go to the CBA Political Action Committee (PAC) and Public Relations (PR) funds. Since CBA maintains the only state PAC working exclusively for Georgia’s community banks, the funds provide Georgia’s community banking industry a voice in state politics. Learn more and register.
It may surprise you to find out that a hole in one is achieved somewhere in the world every 3,500 rounds on average. CBA is offering an amazing line-up of prizes for those who get the prized Hole in One.
Mark your calendar for CBA’s Spring Golf Tournaments April 15th at Doublegate Country Club in Albany, and April 23rd at The Georgia Club in Statham.
What Can You Win?
- $10,000 Cash Split: $5,000 to Golfer and $5,000 to CBA PAC; Hole 11, Albany and Hole 3 Silver, Statham
- 7-Day Caribbean Cruise for 2; Hole 16, Albany and Hole 3 Red, Statham
- Two round trip tickets on American Airlines anywhere in Continental U.S.; Hole 2, Albany, Hole 8 Silver, Statham
- Club Glove Golf Travel Bag and Rolling Duffel – Hole 6, Albany and Hole 8 Red, Statham
- $250 Pro Shop Gift Certificate on Hole 6 Silver, Statham
Harland Clarke is sponsoring the $10,000 Hole in One Cash Split at both tournaments. Associate Members: claim your sponsorship of one of these great prizes, only $200 each.
Learn more about these tournaments and the TopGolf event in Atlanta on April 14th. Proceeds from these events go to the CBA Political Action Committee (PAC) and Public Relations (PR) funds. Since CBA maintains the only state PAC working exclusively for Georgia’s community banks, the funds provide Georgia’s community banking industry a voice in state politics. Learn more and register.
CBA Welcomes New Associate Members
CBA would like to welcome new Associate Members which were recently approved by the Board of Directors. Throughout the year, CBA’s Board reviews and approves quality vendors who provide products and services to CBA members. For more information on becoming an associate member, click here or contact Lindsay Greene.
CBA would like to welcome new Associate Members which were recently approved by the Board of Directors. Throughout the year, CBA’s Board reviews and approves quality vendors who provide products and services to CBA members. For more information on becoming an associate member, click here or contact Lindsay Greene.
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Acxell
Mr. Phil Gonzalez East Brunswick, NJ Risk Management/Bank Consulting Consultants and Builders, Inc. Mr. Kurt Diedrich Peachtree Corners, GA Building Designers |
Magazine: CBA Introduces 2020 Preferred Service Providers
The January/February issue of Georgia Communities First magazine features introduced CBA’s 2020 Preferred Service Providers. Each of these businesses are strong supporters of the community banking industry and can help your bank become more profitable and efficient. All Preferred Service Providers (PSPs) have been reviewed by CBA’s Member Services Committee, which is a committee comprised of bankers from across the state. We invite you to take a look at these companies if you are not already doing business with them!
Interested in becoming a Preferred Service Provider? The Preferred Service Provider packages offers Associate Members the option of upgrading to the package of your choice. To learn more, please contact Lindsay Greene at 770-541-0376.
See the full listing in CBA's latest issue of the reformatted Georgia Communities First magazine, now exclusively digital and issued bi-monthly. Check out the January/February 2020 issue.
The January/February issue of Georgia Communities First magazine features introduced CBA’s 2020 Preferred Service Providers. Each of these businesses are strong supporters of the community banking industry and can help your bank become more profitable and efficient. All Preferred Service Providers (PSPs) have been reviewed by CBA’s Member Services Committee, which is a committee comprised of bankers from across the state. We invite you to take a look at these companies if you are not already doing business with them!
Interested in becoming a Preferred Service Provider? The Preferred Service Provider packages offers Associate Members the option of upgrading to the package of your choice. To learn more, please contact Lindsay Greene at 770-541-0376.
See the full listing in CBA's latest issue of the reformatted Georgia Communities First magazine, now exclusively digital and issued bi-monthly. Check out the January/February 2020 issue.
CBA of Georgia Sponsors the Community Bankers School
July 12-17, 2020 | Illinois Wesleyan University | Bloomington, IL
Sponsored by ten state community-banking associations, the Community Bankers School (CBS) is an intensive program designed for today’s community bank professional. The purpose of this school is to impart knowledge participants can use every day in community banking. CBS is available to community bankers nationwide, making it The School for community bankers in the country. For more information, contact Kristi Greer. See the brochure.
July 12-17, 2020 | Illinois Wesleyan University | Bloomington, IL
Sponsored by ten state community-banking associations, the Community Bankers School (CBS) is an intensive program designed for today’s community bank professional. The purpose of this school is to impart knowledge participants can use every day in community banking. CBS is available to community bankers nationwide, making it The School for community bankers in the country. For more information, contact Kristi Greer. See the brochure.
Webinar: Credit Unions & How To Respond
Tuesday, March 3, 2020 | 2:00 pm
As part of their Wake Up campaign, ICBA is hosting a webinar on March 3 at 2 p.m. led by our policy and advocacy experts who will show how you can fight back against credit unions. The webinar will cover the plethora of abuses credit unions' tax-exempt status affords, their abandonment of their mission, and much more. Registration is free for ICBA members. Register here.
Tuesday, March 3, 2020 | 2:00 pm
As part of their Wake Up campaign, ICBA is hosting a webinar on March 3 at 2 p.m. led by our policy and advocacy experts who will show how you can fight back against credit unions. The webinar will cover the plethora of abuses credit unions' tax-exempt status affords, their abandonment of their mission, and much more. Registration is free for ICBA members. Register here.
Balance Sheet Academy: Portfolio & Balance Sheet Management
April 20-21, 2020 | Memphis, TN | Presented by ICBA Securities, a Diamond-Level Preferred Service Provider
The Balance Sheet Academy advanced seminar is designed to expose seasoned community bank portfolio and balance sheet managers to advanced products and concepts. The objective of this seminar is to enable the attendees to consistently outperform their peers. Attendees will learn how the changing economic data impacts market interest rates from Vining Sparks' Chief Economist. Register here.
April 20-21, 2020 | Memphis, TN | Presented by ICBA Securities, a Diamond-Level Preferred Service Provider
The Balance Sheet Academy advanced seminar is designed to expose seasoned community bank portfolio and balance sheet managers to advanced products and concepts. The objective of this seminar is to enable the attendees to consistently outperform their peers. Attendees will learn how the changing economic data impacts market interest rates from Vining Sparks' Chief Economist. Register here.
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Harland Clarke is a leading provider of customer engagement solutions that help connect businesses and people how, when, and where it matters. The company offers payment tools such as checks and cards; lifecycle marketing solutions; critical communications; and promotional products for businesses.
To learn more, contact Ryan Busenitz at (678) 595-0625 or visit www.harlandclarke.com. |
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Here are some of the latest national news stories relevant to community banking and the financial services industry:
- GA DBF’s Kevin Hagler Appointed to FDIC Advisory Committee of State Regulators
- FHFA seeks feedback on FHLBank membership
- FDIC issues guide on fintech-bank connections
- FDIC recognizes Money Smart users for America Saves Week
- CFPB issues proposed rulemaking on collection of time-barred debt
- USDA seeks comments on information requirements for farm loan programs
- USDA approves state and tribal hemp production plans
- ICBA offers resources for Coronavirus response
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