May/June 2020 Georgia Communities First Magazine by Community Bankers Association of Georgia

Georgia Communities First Official Publication of the Community Bankers Association of Georgia

MAY/JUNE 2020

PPP Loans Making a Difference

INSIDE: Resources for COVID-19

Annual Convention & Mini-Trade Show 2020 Scholarship Winners

Upcoming Professional Development Programs

PLUS: • Solutions for Success • Committee Chair Feature • Preferred Service Provider Feature

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CONTENTS

F E AT U R E S May/June 2020

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 One South Bank, Macon

Community BankersThe Financial Industry’s First Responders

trends

Who Cares?

p ro f es s i o n a l d e v e lo p m e n t

15 Solutions for Success

17 CBA’s Compliance Officer Boot Camp Advanced Commercial Lending CBA’s Lifetime Service Awards

t h e l at e s t

CBA Resources for COVID-19

s p ot l i g h ts

Lindsay Greene Vice President Member Services, Marketing and Communications lindsay@cbaofga.com

19 CBA’s Annual Convention

PPP Loans Making a Difference

11 Marketing Committee Chair: Sylvia Enix

23 Save the Dates member services

13 Preferred Service Provider Spotlight: Diana Baker, Travelers

24 Kicking the Can 27 Technology That’s Right for the Times 28 New Associate Members

Cassie Conklin 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

29 2020 Scholarship Winners 31 CBA’s Preferred Service Providers

s ta y connected

Tammy Maass Vice President, Accounting tammy@cbaofga.com

Lisa McNair Director of Finance lisa@cbaofga.com @CBAofGeorgia

@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 ay/ J u n e 2 0 2 0 | G e org i a Co m m un i ti es F i rs t | 1

VANTAGE POINT

Community BanksThe Financial Industry’s First Responders Staggering, frustrating, amazing, tragic, overwhelming, euphoric, heartwarming, heartbreaking, exhaustive, and humbling are just a few words to describe the last few weeks. I could use some others as well; however, my editor (Lindsay Greene) would ultimately cut out for sure. Suffice it to say, through it all one thing stood out - and stood out so clearly that the media, the public, Congressional representatives and even the President himself recognized- the vital role of the community banking industry. Over the past few weeks, I have been contacted by many of our Congressional representatives, state legislators and even received a call from the White House. Here in Georgia, our own Governor Kemp spent considerable time as part of a live stream call with almost 300 community bankers. All the outreach was to offer sincere gratitude for Georgia’s community banks. While the nation’s largest banks – many of which exist only because of taxpayer bailouts – sat idly by on the sidelines or, even worse, secured immense chunks of the precious funds for their largest customers, community banks worked around the clock to navigate the program complexities and provide vital funding for main street businesses. Like all First Responders, community bankers ran TOWARDS the crisis, solved problems, and made a difference in people’s lives. As a feature article in this publication, Lindsay reached out to many community bankers and asked them to provide several success stories of customers they have helped. Based on the overall Georgia PPP numbers, it is staggering to consider that there are over 131,000 similar stories in our state. Combined with the fact that the total loan volume for Georgia is around $14 billion, one can only imagine how many of our fellow Georgian’s lives have been positively impacted by your efforts. Nationally, the PPP figures are beyond imagination. By the time round 2 is over, roughly 4 million loans will have been made for over $650 billion.

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John McNair President & CEO Community Bankers Association of Georgia

As Georgia and our country gradually begin to re-open, it is important to recognize our critical role. We must continue to stay vigilant in our efforts to protect our most vulnerable citizens, friends, and neighbors from the impact of the virus. At the same time, we as community bankers must also be engaged like never before to help individuals and businesses re-establish their financial wellbeing. This joint mission will be challenging and difficult; however, like all First Responders, community bankers will undoubtedly find new and innovative ways to solve problems and positively impact people’s lives. From a CBA staff perspective, we are in awe of what you have accomplished. Friends, neighbors, and even absolute strangers have approached all of us - frustrated by the lack of assistance from their larger banks – asking for a community bank alternative. While larger banks were repeatedly excoriated in the media and on national television, community banks were lauded and applauded for their participation in PPP. Although the public shaming and political pressure did spark greater involvement in round 2 by larger banks, the secret was out - community banks are very different than large banks. On behalf of all of us at CBA, it is such an honor and privilege to serve and represent the Georgia’s community bankers- the financial industry’s First Responders!

FROM THE TOP

Who Cares?

Ron Quinn President & CEO Peach State Bank & Trust, Gainesville 2019-2020 CBA Chairman

This question is easily answered if you are a community banker located in Georgia. Over the last few weeks with the passage of the Cares Act and the Paycheck Protection Program by the United States Congress, Community Banks have rallied their troops into a force never before seen in our Country or our state. Georgia Community Banks have closed over 125,000 loans totaling approximately 15 billion dollars as of mid-May. We have all heard the famous saying, “Life is 10% of what happens and 90% of how you react to it.” Community bankers have proven that attitude is everything. These unexpected difficult times, brought on by Covid-19, are NOT what defines us, but our response to them are. I have been proud to witness Bankers and Banks throughout our great state come together to figure out a relief program filled with many unanswered questions at the onset, to implementing solutions to help support our local business, their staff,

and the necessary funding to keep them viable, during these uncertain economic times. We know that positive, supportive, and authentic relationships are the foundational building blocks to anything and everything that we all want to achieve. Georgia is blessed to have a network of strong, passionate, and caring Bankers that constantly demonstrate the ability to work together, no matter what obstacles come our way. Working to make our communities stronger and making Georgia the number one state in which to do business for seven consecutive years. We may not be able to choose the path we walk on, but we can always choose the way we walk it. In the words of our late president, John F. Kennedy, “One person can make a difference, and everyone should try.” We CARE!!!

Technology Showcase

Save the date(s)

for the CBA Technology Showcase, a virtual event sponsored by William Mills Agency. This event is a complimentary CBA member exclusive. Technology vendors in all areas will showcase innovative solutions in three 90-minute sessions over three days.

Mark your calendars and we'll see you there! June 16th (10:30AM) – Lending and Compliance Technologies June 23rd (10:30AM) – Digital Engagement Technologies June 30th (10:30AM) – Core, Data and Intelligence www.cbaofga.com

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we wisely manage each matter in the best interests of all. We also work to ensure that our knowledge of your policies, procedures, general operations, strategic goals, and higher level business plans remains up to date and that our recommendations on any issue help you implement same with best practice in mind. Our ongoing representation is designed to serve as an integrated resource for your institution, and to be a right hand on any particular topic, regardless of its scope, at any time. Our goal is to bring our skill sets, experiences, and resources alongside you, and help your bank reach its ultimate potential.

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THE LATEST

CBA Resources for COVID-19 The coronavirus has created both a health and economic burden that must be dealt with head on. CBA is ready, willing and able to support your banks any way possible. Please check out the following resources to better help your bank and your community.

CBA Bankers Connect with the New S.T.R.E.A.M. Tool for Remote Training CBA’s community bankers have been participating in CBA’s new S.T.R.E.A.M. (Stream Training Remotely = Enhanced Access for Members) virtual online tool for professional development and the feedback has been very positive. S.T.R.E.A.M. offers bankers an efficient way to connect with class instructors as well as their banking peers across the state. Click here to view all of CBA’s offerings and simply look for “STREAM” to see which programs are available digitally.

Rescheduled Training During COVID-19 In order to best serve your customers, CBA member banks are evaluating current staffing and operational needs of their respective institutions. As a result, CBA decided to reschedule Professional Development classroom events during March and incorporated live streaming education opportunities for April & May. During June, we will offer both in-person/classroom events and live virtual (using STREAM) options for our programs to help our bankers choose what is best for them. To find the latest information on program offerings, click here or contact a professional development associate, education@cbaofga.com or 770-541-4490.

Pandemic Support & Preparedness CBA is hosting a Disaster & Pandemic Support & Preparedness page on our website for the lastest updates, news, and resources related to COVID-19 and community banking in Georgia. See the latest.

Vendor Partner Assistance for CBA Banks Several of of CBA’s Preferred Service Providers and Associate Members are offering reduced fees or enhanced services to help our community bank members get through this tough time. Learn more.

PREFERRED SERVICE PROVIDER

Helping CBA Members Order PPE Items Opening your branches, means providing personal protective equipment (PPE) for staff and customers. CBA Associate Member WebbMason has sourced many popular items in a portal for CBA members and items include masks, acrylic dividers, sanitizers, floor decals, signage and more. Product certifications can be provided upon request. Each item listed in the portal specifies the timeline for delivery and items will shipped directly to the bank. Click here for more info. If you have a specific request or need a different quantity, WebbMason can research for you. M ay/ J u n e 2 0 2 0 | G e org i a Co m m un i ti es F i rs t | 5

SPOTLIGHT

PPP Loans Making a Difference Since the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) launched in early April, Georgia’s community bankers rose to the occasion, helping thousands of small business customers. “Our members worked countless hours during April to help the customers secure aid,” stated John McNair, President & CEO of Community Bankers Association of Georgia (CBA). “I could not be prouder of what members accomplished in support of Georgia’s economy and the economies of so many communities. Each PPP loan represents tens, or even hundreds, of jobs preserved in this time of crisis.” According to Ron Quinn, President & CEO of Peach State Bank & Trust in Gainesville, GA, “Once the details of the Payroll Protection Program Stimulus Loan were approved and announced, we knew we were ready to help. Our lenders, loan assistants and loan processors have worked around the clock, whether it be from their desk at work or from home. To date the bank has helped over 300 small businesses and non-profits in the community get thru this pandemic time in our history – but it’s not about the numbers. The gratitude from our customers made it worth every minute.” According to the Small Business Administration, community banks approved about 60 percent of first-round PPP loans. Nationally, banks under $1 billion – a group that represents just 6 percent of all banking assets – provided their communities with nearly 20 percent of first-round PPP loan dollars. In Georgia, over 131,000 small businesses loans were made for a total of $14 billion in PPP funding, according to the SBA. Nationwide, the number of approved loans is 2,750,904 for total dollar amount of $194,759,656,546. Lenders under $10B approved 1,090,992 loans for total dollar amount of $62,820,630,848. Nationwide, the average loan size was $70,798. When Congress authorized the second round of $310 billion in PPP funding, it chose community banks as the exclusive provider for $60 billion. Congress reserved $30 billion of that amount for banks under $10 billion. “Congress recognized that community banks had proven to be the most dependable PPP providers for the small businesses,” Mr. McNair commented. “They stood in the gap for our country’s small businesses while the largest banks were turning them away.” “The Community Bankers Association of Georgia is proud to be the exclusive association for Georgia’s community banking industry,” stated Mr. McNair. “Since our organization represents Main Street banks, and not Wall Street banks,

our community banks are designed to more effectively and efficiently execute a program like this as well as facilitate small business lending overall. PPP is a wonderful example of the what the men and women who work in Georgia’s community banking industry do every day.” The following are just a few of examples of thousands in our state of “Community helping Community.” Peach State Bank & Trust Gainesville, GA Asset size: $270 million Ron Quinn, President & CEOO Habitat for Humanity of Hall County Gainesville GA Habitat for Humanity of Hall County was founded in 1989 by a group of concerned citizens who believed that every man, woman and child should have a simple, durable place to live in dignity and safety, and that shelter in a decent community should be a matter of conscience and action for all. Habitat is a hand-up, not a hand-out program, helping hard-working, low income families purchase their own home. This selfsufficiency builds self-reliance that spreads to work, family and community life, today and for future generations.

Habitat has 22 full and part time employees fully committed to the mission. Alison McElvery, Executive Director, added “I am committed to ensuring they remain financially stable through the COVID-19 pandemic.“ When the CARES Act was signed and the PPP was announced in late March, Ms. McElvery reached out to Ron Quinn, President and CEO of Peach State Bank. Ron and his team provided essential financial services and expertise for them and the families they serve. This responsive service allowed Habitat to provide payroll to their deserving employees, reassuring them and allowing them to focus on what is most important, caring for their families and for the Habitat homeowners who needed our help in these uncertain times.

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SPOTLIGHT Ms. McElvery added “Prior to moving to Gainesville, I enjoyed a successful career at one of the largest financial services firms in the world. Reaching out to one of these firms would not have been difficult. But bigger isn’t always better and a strong banking relationship requires trust and responsiveness. Peach State has been with Habitat before and during this pandemic, helping us take care of what matters most - our people. I am confident that they will be with us after, when we return to our mission of bringing people together to build homes, communities and hope.”

The Collegiate Grill Downtown Gainesville, GA If you happen to be traveling to the mountains and stop by Gainesville, Georgia on the way, you could easily miss the best burger of your life. And if you were to ask any of the locals, they could direct you to exactly where to go - The Collegiate Grill located right in Downtown Gainesville. This little diner originally opened in 1947 and quickly became part of the fabric of downtown, known for burgers, slaw dogs and delicious milkshakes. George and Margene Brown managed the business. Back in the day Mrs. Brown was well known for taking all orders with no note pad – just a really good memory. Today, the Collegiate is owned and operated by Jeff and Donna Worley who bought it in 2008 and have continued the tradition of great food and service. “I believe the Collegiate is a landmark here in Gainesville and I consider myself more of a steward than an owner.” Jeff has been around the Collegiate since he was 12 years old “I just have great memories here”. Several years back, the State of Georgia recognized The Collegiate Grill in an article “The Greatest Burger Joint in Each State”. They were also voted “Best Burger in Hall County” for the last 4 years. With the recent Coronavirus pandemic they were concerned for their business and what closing the doors for an unknown period of time would do to them. Mike Underwood, Peach State Bank, actually reached out to the Worleys immediately with very detailed instructions on how to prepare and apply for the Payroll Protection Program. In a very short but highly organized process, The Collegiate Grill quickly secured PPP funding to allow the business to operate at a reduced capacity with very limited impact to their highly valued staff.

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Deep Roots Gainesville, GA When John Baxter and Ben Filchak met and became friends in kindergarten, they had no idea it would end up being not only a lifelong friendship but also a business partnership. John started cutting lawns for neighbors when he was in his early teens. As he continued his journey through high school and college, he had the dream to one day be a business owner. After graduating from North Georgia College and State University in 2010 with a Business Management degree, he decided to start an official business. Within a month, Deep Roots Landscape was established. Ben joined John on many projects throughout high school and college. As he was getting ready to graduate, the two began to think about what the company could be. Ben officially joined Deep Roots as a partner in 2011. Today, they own and operate a very successful full-service landscape company with nine crew members (maintenance, installation and turf treatments) servicing over 200 customers a week and currently employ around 30 employees. John not only banks with Peach State Bank both personally and for his business but is on their Future Leaders Board as past Chairman. When all the news about the Coronavirus started to come out, John and Ben began to assess their potential needs to get through this situation. They quickly reached out to their bank and were able to receive the needed information to move forward with the PPP loan. “It was a great feeling to know that we have a bank that is so responsive and stands behind us to help us through the tough times “added Baxter. First Peoples Bank Pine Mountain, GA Asset Size: $190 million Jane Lawson, COO Jenny Jack Farms Pine Mountain, GA Jenny and Chris Jackson, owners of Jenny Jack Farm in Pine Mountain, Georgia have been offering direct market sales of seasonal diversified vegetables for over 15 years. “We are very grateful to First Peoples Bank for the PPP loan. They were in direct communication with us from the minute we applied, eagerly assisting us with the details of the process, and making sure to the best of their ability that we

SPOTLIGHT had every chance of being funded in this first round of loans,” explained Jenny Jackson. “Fortunately, because so many more folks are shopping with us in lieu of extra grocery store stops, our business is currently in a stable place. The PPP loan has softened our anxiety and given us the confidence we need to maintain our current growth and keep each employee working.” First National Bank of Coffee County Douglas, GA Asset Size: $245 million Stephen Lewis, Senior Lender Holt’s Sweet Shop Douglas, GA

THANK YOU Georgia Community Bankers!

Holt’s Sweet Shop is a family run business specializing in donuts, cakes, cookies and more for over 50 years. Garrett Spivey, President of Holt’s Sweet Shop, is a 3rd-generation baker. With 43 employees, the PPP loan from First National Bank of Coffee County was a lifeline during a tough economic time in the counties they serve. Holt’s currently has four locations and a fifth location is underway.

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Meet CBA’s Marketing Committee Chair:

SPOTLIGHT

Sylvia Enix

Sylvia Enix, Director of Marketing, Persons Banking Company, Forsyth. CBA invited Enix to participate in a Q&A so you can learn about her bank, how her role on the committee helps other CBA members, and more. How long have you been in banking? Since 1992 or 28 years Sylvia Enix CBA’s Marketing Committee Chair Persons Banking Company, Forsyth

With 11 standing committees, CBA offers member community banks a way to strengthen their association firsthand. These committees provide CBA valuable feedback and guidance on the needs, challenges and opportunities of Georgia’s community banks. In this issue, we are pleased to feature the chair of the Marketing Committee,

What makes your bank different? For over 100 years, it has and will always be the goal of Persons Banking Company to ensure our customers receive the best banking possible. We take pride in providing services and products that not only make us stand out among competition but also make a positive difference in our customers’ daily lives. We’re able to provide these services by working with the best staff, vendors and leaders in our communities. It is always our goal to grow with our communities.

How does the Marketing Committee help CBA members? The CBA Marketing Committee has three major initiatives which include: a) Improving communication with CBA member banks; b) Assisting member banks with bank marketing; and c) Increase media presence regarding the importance and benefits of community banking. We can be a great resource for any marketing questions members may have - i.e. digital and social media, vendor or Best Practices, etc. Marketers are very creative und fun! Tell us about your hobbies or interests outside of work: I love practicing yoga and traveling with my husband and fur babies. If you are interested in serving on CBA’s Advocacy Committee, please contact Lindsay Greene.

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SPOTLIGHT

Preferred Service Provider Spotlight:

Diana Baker, Travelers In this issue, CBA is pleased to feature Diana Baker, Managing Director Southeast Territory, Travelers. CBA invited Diana to participate in this Q&A so you can learn more about this Preferred Service Provider and a little more about Diana. Diana Baker, Managing Director Southeast Territory

private motor policy in the United States in 1897, to being one of the first domestic markets to write D&O insurance in 1964, to providing coverage for the Apollo mission to the moon in 1969. Even now, dealing with the ever-evolving cyber liability insurance market. Our specialist underwriting skills, expert knowledge of our customers’ risks and an inhouse team of claims professionals help us achieve our goal of providing first-class service in everything we do. We are always assessing evolving risks and looking for the right solutions to address the dynamic risk landscape.

Tell us about Travelers and your role with the company: The success that Travelers has built in the insurance industry reflects more than 160 years of experience and is best characterized by an ability to adapt to changing times while always remaining committed to our customers. We offer insurance and risk mitigation services to help banks address a variety of exposures, including D&O, EPL, fiduciary, cyber, bankers professional liability, financial institution bonds, and property/casualty coverages. As an organization, we work hard at what we do: we analyze information, assess risk and measure results. My role is to take the time to understand the unique needs of my customers and develop the best solution. From simple to complex risks, all underwritten individually with attention to detail, my goal is to ensure that our insurance products meet the needs and priorities of clients. How do you help Georgia’s community banks? We put our wisdom to work. We take the time to understand our customers and help them find the right solutions. Above all, we know that the true test of an insurance company comes when mishaps and unforeseen events occur. From assessing a customer’s claim to staying with them every step of the way during the process, we are there for Georgia’s community banks. We have underwriters located in Georgia to support bankers, their agents and the Community Bankers Association of Georgia.

Diana with Megan Raines and Amy Barnes, who are both well-known with Georgia’s community bankers

Interesting facts about you – education, family, hobbies I have been helping banks with their insurance needs for over 40 years. I have a BS degree in Finance from Clemson University, along with Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter and Associate in Fidelity and Surety bonding professional designations. I am a mother of two and became a grandmother for the first time in 2019! Along with my husband, our favorite hobby is spending time with our grandson, Malakai, who turned 1 in January. What do you do for fun outside of work? Spend time with Kai! I can’t think of anything more fun these days. I also enjoy going to football games and getting together and doing things as a family.

What’s new? Any hot products? We strive to provide innovative insurance products. That’s always been the case at Travelers, from the first-ever

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TRENDS

Solutions for Success: Did they cover this in Management Training? How will bank processes be affected? The need for a robust Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Program has become an imperative. Taking careful note of lessons learned regarding people, processes and technologies are key components to success when combined with the ability to turn them into best banking practices. Having the flexibility and courage to discard outdated processes, policies and procedures that are out of touch with the current environment will pave the way for new and innovative capabilities for the future. How will bank technology be used in new and innovative ways? The Solutions for Success series features timely issues and best practices from CBA Associate Members. CBA recently met with Lisa Small, CERP and Lisa Berry, CRCM, CCBCO, Warren Averett CPAs & Advisors, to ask a couple questions pertaining to the new normal in light of COVID-19. What banks are experiencing in light of the COVID-19 pandemic is unprecedented. It isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t something learned in a management training class or that a wise old banker told us to anticipate. Banks and their customers are in uncharted waters. The last pandemic was in 1918 with the Spanish flu, but banking has changed quite a bit since then. To adapt business models to the current crisis, banks need to redirect their people, processes and technologies to embrace the new normal. At least for now, the old ways are gone, and the new ways are brand new to all of us. What are some questions banks will have to ask themselves as they navigate this uncharted course? How will the interactions between bankers and their clients change? Social distancing may be part of our interactions in a teller line and among bank employees for a while. Our social interactions have been altered, like shaking hands and standing six feet apart. Plexiglass at teller windows now protects against multiple safety concerns as opposed to the original intent behind them. How do bank employees find new ways to greet customers warmly and help them feel comfortable walking back into the branches? Banks will need to re-think how they advertise. Advertisements made previously, showing crowds of people or close contact, may now be disturbing to audiences. Showing how your bank is adapting and reflecting social consciousness will further empower your brand.

Customer confidence has been shaken to its core, but the good news is that bank services, albeit with lobbies temporarily closed, are available just like grocery stores and pharmacies. Technologies that have historically taken months or years to implement are being re-imagined and implemented in hours and days. Human-to-human contact can never be replaced in a community bank. The question we all must ask is: how do community banks continue to embrace new technologies, while maintaining the human element that sets them apart? When youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re thrown a curve ball, you choke up on the bat, change your stance and adapt to the situation. Our community banks are doing, and will continue to do, just that! These are uncharted waters, but we can help you navigate through them. Warren Averett is one of the largest accounting firms in the southeast with service offerings that go far beyond tax and audit. Our hundreds of trusted advisors offer forwardthinking insight, serve as strategic partners, help establish the new normal and keep businesses and their teams safe during the journey. For more information about how businesses can respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and the services that Warren Averett offers, please visit warrenaverett.com.

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

CBA’s Compliance Officer Boot Camp This three- and half-day seminar will provide comprehensive insight on what you should be doing and how to do it to be an effective Compliance Officer. Combining lecture, written materials, breakout sessions and mini workshops, the Compliance Officer Boot Camp is a must whether you are new to compliance or have been moving through the motions of compliance for years. Register here!

Advanced Commercial Lending School This three-day school is specifically designed to introduce experienced lenders to more advanced commercial and industrial lending. Topics covered will include: Identifying risks, regulatory expectations on loan portfolio management during a pandemic, how to structure loans after performing a detailed liquidity analysis, understanding cash flow analysis using the Uniform Cash Analysis Method, how to calculate a borrower’s sustainable growth rate, loan structuring, debt structuring, evaluating environmental due diligence and specialized lending products such as: asset-based, acquisition, development and construction, municipalities and government units. Plus, networking opportunities Learn more here.

Celebrate a Lifetime of Service Will you or someone at your bank be celebrating a milestone this year? Let CBA help you celebrate! 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 pays tribute to bankers reaching a milestone of 30, 40 or 50 years in the community banking industry. The presentation will be made during the 52nd Annual Convention & Mini-Trade Show. The 2020 deadline to submit honorees is Friday, August 28, 2020. As part of the recognition, honorees receive a commemorative plaque, and CBA will feature the honorees in various CBA publications, as well as provide a press release. Honorees with 50 or more years of service also receive a customized gold and diamond lapel pin. If you or someone in your bank is celebrating 30, 40 or 50 years of service as a banker during this calendar year, please contact Lindsay Greene, (770) 541-0376, or visit CBA’s website. M ay/ J u n e 2 0 2 0 | G e org i a Com m un i ti es F i rs t | 17

GENESYS TECHNOLOGY GROUP

Bank Contract Negotiators Core Evaluations Renewal Negotiations Online & Mobile Evaluations Card Portfolio Profitability

Bank technology consulting that pays for itself. Visit | genesystg.com

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Bank to the Future

VIEW AGENDA

Given the current environment, a decision on CBA’s LEAD convention scheduled for the Ritz Carlton in Amelia Island, Florida needed to be made by the end of April 2020. After consulting with CBA’s Executive Committee and CBA staff, the decision has been made to cancel the June 2020 LEAD convention. We collectively felt this was in the best interests of our member banks and partner firms. Considering the gradual re-opening of both Georgia, Florida, and other states, we have enhanced the agenda for our Annual Convention scheduled for September 2427, 2020 at the Hilton Sandestin in Miramar Beach, Florida to include dual track programming for our bankers. CBA conventions are known for finding the right mix of high-quality professional development programming with a fun and comfortable environment. This year, perhaps

DIRECTOR’S COLLEGE

more than ever before, we believe it is important to come together as Georgia’s community bankers and share our knowledge, experiences and friendship with each other. Lifting up our communities is what we do every day and this year’s convention will provide each of us with the opportunity to do the same for one another. The agenda offers something for everyone – motivational keynote speakers, a Director’s College, networking at the Thursday night fundraising party, learning about new products and services, numerous break-out sessions, and the Chairman’s Dinner and Banking on the Future Celebration. We sincerely hope you will attend the convention. Please contact your CBA team with any questions.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

David Salyers

Pete Smith Dare to Matter: Shake, Rattle, and Roll Your Way to Significance

David Salyers was one of the original two marketing executives at Chickfil-A. He spent 37 years in the Chick-fil-A Marketing Department and most recently served as a Vice President before his recent retirement. Having worked at Chick-fil-A his entire career, he saw the principles of servant leadership and compassion play out in the growth of more than 2,300 Chick-fil-A restaurants around the country. Chick-fil-A, one of America’s most successful, powerful and beloved brands, is a multi-billion dollar company built almost entirely on culture. Chick-fil-A has experienced over 50 consecutive years of sales growth and is at, or near, the top rankings of U.S. brands across all sectors. David has invested his entire career working in and helping to build a culture only to be described as remarkable.

Pete Smith is an international speaker and coach in the fields of leadership, management, personal growth and development. His energetic, edgy, and interactive style is complimented by his ability to provide practical takeaways that actually work, while having a little fun in the process.

WATCH THE VIDEO

M ay/ J u n e 2 0 2 0 | G e org i a Com m un i ti es F i rs t | 19

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

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THANK YOU TO OUR EXHIBITORS! ACG • Ameris Mortgage • Ascensus • ATM Response • Banc Consulting Partners • Bankers Healthcare Group BFS Group • CashTrans • CBIZ • Crescent Mortgage • DeNyse Companies • Eclipse Brand Builders EconoCheck • FITECH • Genesys Technology Group • Gulf Coast Business Credit • Harland Clarke Holtmeyer & Monson • ICBA Securities • Intercept Consulting Group, Inc. • Kasasa • Pentegra Point to Point Environmental • Progressive Communications • Promontory Interfinancial Network • QwickRate • SBA Works • SHAZAM • STS Group • Travelers • Vsoft Corporation • Warren Averett • WebMobile Fusion For more information on sponsorships, please contact Lindsay Greene at (770) 541-0376. M ay/ J u n e 2 0 2 0 | G e org i a Com m un i ti es F i rs t | 21

Straight Talk About Valuable Marketing For 25 years, The Eversole Group has served the CBA of Georgia as its Preferred Service Provider for community bank marketing and advertising. During these years, many member banks have enjoyed the results provided by our traditional advertising services. But four years ago, we realized that we needed to partner with a proven social media provider. On January 1, 2020, The Eversole Group merged with Agora Company, forming AgoraEversole, LLC, retaining the CBAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Preferred Service Provider status. Now, AgoraEversole can provide comprehensive marketing services under one roof. Tried and proven. Dedicated to community banks and driven to provide value and results for our clients. Call us today. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll help you communicate with those who need to hear your message. Marketing has never been more important.

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Traditional Web Design SEO Social Media Digital Ads

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

SAVE THE DATES!

Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Bank Secrecy Act at the beach! CBA's 13th Annual Advanced BSA Officer School includes roundtable discussions, BSA Hot Topics & Trends, BSA exam manual, To Bank or Not Bank â&#x20AC;&#x201C; High Risk Customers, Products and Services, Understanding MRB in Georgia; CBD, Hemp and Marijuana, regulatory updates, banker panel and much more! Register today and enjoy all of this at the beautiful King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort in St. Simons Island!

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MEMBER SERVICES Jim Reber

Kicking the Can

President & CEO ICBA Securities

Congress and the Fed are on a spending spree. If you ultra-busy community bankers have been able to catch some of our policymakers commenting on the waves of fiscal and monetary stimulus rushing toward the U.S. consumer, what you heard essentially translated into an elaborate game of Kick the Can. Please note that I said “elaborate” and not “elegant.” Here are some popular sound bites from these commentaries: “The amount of debt that we’re adding up is a matter of genuine concern.” “We are deploying these lending powers to an unprecedented extent, enabled in large part by the financial backing from Congress and the Treasury.” “Our country’s highest priority must be to address this public health crisis.” All of which sound good, and each of which are undoubtedly true. As is this: We’re going to have one large bill to pay sometime in the future. It came from Foggy Bottom In barely a six-week period in March and April, we saw three different bills enacted, each providing assistance to individuals and the domestic economy. The three have an aggregate price tag of about $2.8 trillion. Congress and the administration have not yet advanced any bright ideas about how this spending is actually going to be repaid. For context, here is some color on what $2.8 trillion entails: • It’s equal to the annual gross domestic product of France. • It’s greater than any annual U.S. budget up until 2008. • It’s twice the amount of all the individual income tax payments in the U.S. in 2017. And more may be in store as the government tries to keep our economy from completely shutting down. Still, to summarize, we’ve just taken a big jump in deficit spending to finance our way of life until we can go back to our normal routines.

Fed’s bag of tricks Not to be outdone, the Federal Reserve has supplied a set of monetary responses and more to come. Some of these moves have not only rebuilt its colossal balance sheet but have far surpassed its previous buying binges. As of the end of April, its total assets were up to around $6.6 trillion. That number never exceeded $4.5 trillion even during the succession of quantitative easings (QE) in the past decade. Of course, we learned last time that the counterweight to the buying spree is the increase in reserves in the banking system. The finance textbooks will tell you that an increase in the money supply will cause prices to rise, as inflation is the residue of “too much money chasing too few goods.” But since inflation never really picked up during the prior rounds of QE, and since it sure looks like monetary stimulus is currently needed to keep the economy from collapsing, deficit hawks have completely thrown in the towel at the present. Thirty-year Treasury bonds with yields below 1.50% have further empowered lawmakers to borrow-and-spend, and we’ll figure out how to finance it later. What’s of value The list of Fed activities is too lengthy to go into much detail, but let’s just say it is taking its role as Lender of Last Resort quite seriously. It has invested in, or provided financing to, several investment sectors that it had never done so in the past. This includes corporate bonds and municipal loans. More fundamental to community banks is that it has again cut overnight rates to just about zero and has invested in a lot of mortgage-backed securities (MBS). This includes more generic MBS like the 30-year fixed rate pass-throughs, but it has also increased its holdings of 15-year pools and, for the first time, bought multifamily MBSs. The Fed’s objective is to enhance liquidity in that space, and it appears to be effective.

FUNDING OPTIONS ICBA Securities and its exclusive broker-dealer Vining Sparks can assist your community bank in building an efficient collection of funds. A recent Strategic Insight “Defending Your Bottom Line” explains some strategies to maintain reasonable interest margins. For your copy, visit icbasecurities.com or contact your Vining Sparks sales rep.

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Between mid-March and mid-April, prices on many of these pools rose by almost three points (3%), while Treasury notes with comparable durations were essentially flat. Not that anything in this market is going to have nominally attractive yields, but there are some pockets of relative value. MBSs that the Fed are not buying, such as jumbo pools and collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs), have not yet followed the prices on the Fed’s pools. The aforementioned liquidity facility to support municipalities is concentrated on short (two years and less) duration credits. Therefore, longer (e.g., more than 10 years) munis should remain the highest yielding sector that’s of interest to community banks. I think we’d agree that we’re not having an especially fun time at the present, but it surely appears to your correspondent that our policymakers are using all the toys in their sandbox. Some of these will hopefully prove to be popular (and effective) at maintaining sufficient activity in the financial sector until normalcy returns. Then we can all look forward to dealing with the extendedplay game of Kick the Can 2020.

Are You Ready for What is Next? Staying ahead of the curve has never been more important. CBA has an impressive line-up of programs this summer and fall to help our bankers be prepared for the ever-evolving way of doing business. In addition to our popular and interactive virtual professional development programs, CBA is planning to move forward with these upcoming programs: Compliance Officer Bootcamp • Cyber Risk Summit • Advanced BSA Officer School Advanced Commercial Lending • Directors’ College Annual Convention & Mini-Trade Show Target these audiences with customized sponsorships and consider advertising in CBA’s magazine, website, or popular e-newsletter–all offer maximum exposure for your company. For more information, contact Lindsay Greene at (770) 541-0376 or email lindsay@cbaofga. com.

VIEW 2020 SPONSORSHIP MENU

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High-performance tools. For high-performance community banking. With QwickRateÂŽ, your bank can access tools and services that larger banks have long enjoyed. Community banks all over Georgia count on us for non-brokered CD funding and investing, performance analysis and regulatory tools. Now they can also stem credit losses with our loan review and credit risk management tools. Contact Melissa Wallace today to learn more and sign up for your 6-month free trial of QwickAnalyticsÂŽ.

Premier online source for non-brokered CD funding and investing

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Schedule a private tour of our solutions at www.qwickrate.com. Sign up for 6 months of free access to QwickAnalytics at www.qwickrate.com/cbaofga.

Melissa Wallace 678.797.4062 melissa.wallace@qwickrate.com 800.285.8626 www.qwickrate.com

TRENDS

Technology That’s Right for the Times For community banks, 2020 has been “interesting” to the extreme – causing an abrupt shift in business priorities, bringing unexpected interruptions and prompting bankers to pivot their focus to immediately helping small business customers with PPP loans, all while still preparing for critical concerns such as shoring up liquidity and managing portfolio credit risk. QwickRate® has been helping community banks address challenges like these for decades by creating time-saving solutions, typically only available to bigger banks, and making them affordable and easy to access. This article provides a perspective on what community banks are experiencing right now, and how they’re using technology – QwickRate’s CD Marketplace and IntelliCredit™ solutions in particular – to navigate today’s unprecedented situation. Adding non-brokered CD funding Since the great recession, historically low interest rates have given businesses an incentive to incur more debt and tap existing credit lines. As a result, community banks focused on having diversified funding sources at the ready. When the COVID-19 outbreak shocked the government into unprecedented relief for small businesses, the banks’ quest for immediate liquidity became even more acute. For over 30 years, the QwickRate CD Marketplace has served as a dependable source of non-brokered institutional funding and investing. Banks rely on QwickRate to extend their deposit-generating capabilities -- to fund loan portfolios, avoid repricing local deposits or satisfy regulators’ requirements to diversify liquidity. Now the surge in Paycheck Protection Program loans and other factors have prompted institutional subscribers to maintain a more active presence in the Marketplace. In fact, participation has been robust in March and April and the same is expected for May and June. Urgency, of course, is paramount for distressed businesses that can’t make payroll and bankers who want to provide immediate help. This makes QwickRate’s online Marketplace more than merely convenient. It speeds direct connections to institutional investors in all 50 states, while automated QwickTools™ condense process time and eliminate the need for endless faxes and phone calls. Rate-setting tools are also available to help banks better manage the cost of funds.

Last year QwickRate introduced IntelliCredit, a new division led by industry credit specialists, to deliver a technology solution that would help bankers better identify emerging credit risks in their portfolios. The ability to spot impending problems at the earliest opportunity, before credits meet the Criticized/ Classified threshold, is key to effectively mitigating portfolio credit risk. The IntelliCredit Portal assesses credit degradation at both the individual loan and portfolio levels. Further, the tool can segregate and monitor portfolios affected by COVID-19, not unlike any other concentrations or loan sub-types. This takes credit risk management from chronicling the past to probing the future! IntelliCredit enables banks to make loan review an integral component of day-to-day credit risk portfolio management. Designed for internal loan review processes or third-party vendor reviewers, Smart Loan Review efficiently uses realtime portfolio analysis to deliver samples that reflect broader credit portfolio performance. It also features real-time clearing of exceptions. Throughout the ebb and flow of changing economic conditions, QwickRate has offered community bankers a growing family of technology solutions to serve their best interests.

For more information, contact Melissa Wallace at (800) 285-8626 or melissa.wallace@qwickrate.com

David Ruffin

Principal, IntelliCredit QwickRate® Preferred Service Provider

Shawn OBrien

President QwickRate® Preferred Service Provider

Focusing on emerging credit risk in the loan portfolio No one knows the extent of the current COVID-19 crisis. However, it’s a given that residual – and likely very deep and prolonged – credit quality issues will be left for the banks to manage. One lesson learned in the last crisis, proven by empirical data, was that those who were late in identifying their weaknesses always incurred greater losses.

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MEMBER SERVICES

WELCOME NEW CBA ASSOCIATE MEMBERS! CBA would like to welcome new Associate Members who were recently approved by the CBA Board of Directors. Throughout the year, CBA’s Board approves quality vendors who provide products and services to CBA members. Make sure your vendors are CBA members - please refer any potential Associate Members to Lindsay Greene at lindsay@cbaofga.com.

All Covered Mr. Dave McOlgan Gurley, AL Cyber Security Services Avertium Mr. Alex Bulischeck Knoxville, TN Cyber Security Services CE Solutions Group Mr. Gene Kirby Greensboro, GA Consulting Community Lending Partners Mr. William Mullally Atlanta, GA Financial Services

FINSYNC, Inc. Mr. Tucker Mathis Atlanta, GA Payments Freeman Mathis & Gary, LLP Mr. Brad Adler Atlanta, GA Legal Services Haberfeld Ms. Jamie Orth Lincoln, NE Retail Banking Strategies

Simon Meyer LLC Ms. Molly Vincent Buchanan, GA Consulting Thompson Hine LLP Mr. Sean Gordon Atlanta, GA Legal Services Vision Mr. Stephen Nikitas Bolingbrook, IL Advertising/Marketing

PPDocs, Inc. Mr. Shannon Phillips Arlington, TX Legal Services

EXECUTIVE INSURANCE AGENCY, INC.

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Mr. Ryan Sower • P.O. Box 480 • Stockbridge, GA 30281-0480 770-474-2355 • 800-772-1404 • www.executiveinsuranceagency.com

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MEMBER SERVICES

CBA is pleased to announce the winners of the 30th Annual Julian & Jan Hester Memorial Scholarship. The 2020 scholarships were open to Georgia high school seniors who intend to enter a Georgia college, university or technical school in the fall semester of 2019. Applications were submitted to the association through CBA member community banks. Only four $1,000 scholarships are awarded each year. The scholarship is named for the late Jan Hester, daughter of Lalia and the late Julian Hester, long-time CEO of the CBA. The scholarship program began in 1990 and is based on academic merit, not financial need. To compete, students must write a short essay on the characteristics of a community bank, and the continuing benefits they offer to their communities. Each winner receives $1,000 to the Georgia college, university or technical school of their choice.

Garrett Donalson Mercer University

Yash Jani Mercer University

Applicants were required to write an essay on community banking and what it means to their community. These essays can be found on the Hester Scholarship webpage. “CBA is proud of these students and wish them well as they continue to further their education,” stated John McNair, President & CEO of CBA. “Each winner demonstrated outstanding scholastic achievement and community service. This was no easy task for the judges, who took their responsibility very seriously. The quality of applications was extraordinary with students who excelled in academics, athletics, community involvement and more – really an impressive group of high school seniors.”

Ashni Patel University of Georgia

CBA also extends appreciation to the panel of judges which included Dr. Marguerite Brickman, University of Georgia, Athens; Trudy Eller, American Commerce Bank, Breman; Elyse Kellert, CBIZ Benefits & Insurance Services, Inc., Atlanta; Chantaria Mack, STS Group, Atlanta; and Kyle Ray, First Bank of Dalton.

Bryanna Whitaker Mercer University

CBA Bank Director’s College Thursday, September 24, 2020 Hilton Sandestin, Sandestin, FL M ay/ J u n e 2 0 2 0 | G e org i a Com m u n i ti es F i rs t | 29

CBIZ Offering CBA members tailored programs to minimize risk and manage employee services Customized Insurance & Risk Management

mitigates key industry exposures including board liability, M&A, cyber, contracts, Fintech and fast-changing technologies

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simplifies human resources management process with single-source access to your employee data

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provides solutions to help manage your plan

For more information contact: Kris St. Martin, Bank Services Program Director 763.549.2267 | KStMartin@CBIZ.com

CBIZ Banking Practice www.cbiz.com/Banking

STS Group Chris Nelson | cnelson@stsgrp.com | (205) 567-3613

AgoraEversole Craig Eversole | craig@agoraeversole.com | (601) 977-5225

Travelers Diana Baker | dcbaker@travelers.com | (678) 317-7882

Bahr Consultants, Inc. Hank Bahr | hank@bahrconsultantsinc.com | (865) 694-6098

Wipfli/PKM Mary Boortz | mboortz@wipfli.com | (715) 858- 6677 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. M ay/ J u n e 2 0 2 0 | G e org i a Com m un i ti es F i rs t | 31

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