May_June Georgia Communities First Magazine by Community Bankers Association of Georgia

CBA SOLUTIONS ISSUE | SUMMER PROGRAMS | TOPGOLF FUN

MAY/JUNE 2021

POWER OF CHANGE

THE

CBA’s 53rd Convention & Mini-Trade Show

15 Million Award-Winning Connections

Harland Clarke’s dedicated professionals become an extension of your team, delivering seamless, best-in-class experiences during M&As, digital banking conversions, and other change events. Get the award-winning support you need, when you need it, to create positive engagement that delights your customers and strengthens your brand.

1.800.351.3843 | contactHC@harlandclarke.com

CONTENTS

F E AT U R E S May/June 2021

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

Community Bank Spirit!

CBA’s 53rd Annual Convention

Making a Meaningful Difference

t h e l at e s t

solutions

22 2021 Preferred Service Providers 30

Associate Members

trends

Town Hall Talks

Topgolf Showdown

Georgia Community Bank Shirts Cover the State

s pot l i g h ts

Munis for the Many

CARES Act USDA Loans Produce Quick Revenue

15 Breakout Sessions 17 Mini-Trade Show & Exhibitors 19 Agenda 21 Convention Sponsors

@CBAofGeorgia

37 How Smart Can You Become? 39

Education Buzz

Human Resource Professionals Conference

Advanced BSA/AML Compliance School & Executive Channel

Credit Analyst Part I & II

@CBAGeorgia

Lisa McNair Director of Finance lisa@cbaofga.com Cassie Cornell Assistant Vice President Digital Strategy and Professional Development Marketing cassie@cbaofga.com

professional development

11 Convention Speakers

s tay connected

Lindsay Greene Senior Vice President Member Services, Marketing lindsay@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 Tyler Eck Government and Regulatory Relations Associate tyler@cbaofga.com

@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 1 | G e or g i a C om m un i ti es F i rs t | 1

VANTAGE POINT

CBA’s 53rd Annual ConventionChristmas in June! I LOVE community bank conventions! I estimate I have been to almost 100 during my career. I have been to conventions on both coasts, the New England states, the heartland states, Hawaii, and several in Canada. Regardless of the convention venue (and I have been to some very nice venues and some, well…not so nice…y), the states in which the bankers are from, or even the time of year, I have found one common theme for all- the esprit de corps of community bankers is second to none. For me, community bank conventions always feel like Christmas- without the cold weather of course! Prior to the event, I experience a build-up of anticipation for what is to come. I look forward to the opportunity to engage with long-time friends and to learn about what has happened in their lives over the past year. It is wonderful and special to share stories of success and to console one other over life’s challenges. Thinking back just a few short months ago to our last convention, the sense of camaraderie and belonging was strong amongst all attendees. Clearly, being together at convention provided the opportunity everyone needed to rekindle old friendships, make new ones, and laugh, learn, and cry with one another. I expect much of the same in June; however, with an added dose of optimism and certainty. The Georgia economy is robust, our community

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John McNair President & CEO Community Bankers Association of Georgia

banks are strong, and all those that want a vaccine will surely have been able to receive one by June. Certainly, a lot to be thankful and excited for! Along with the overall great environment, CBA’s convention features incredible speakers and facilitators keying on several important areas of interest including fintech, noninterest income, culture, and our all-important and popular director’s program. Additionally, several committee chairs felt it was important to have in-person committee meetings while at convention. The Associate Member, Innovation, Advocacy, Member Services, and Education committees will all meet during the day on Wednesday, June 2nd. Overall, CBA’s convention committee led by incoming CBA Board Chair Debra Weil and incoming LEAD Committee Chair Brian Bazemore developed an outstanding program for all to enjoy. Combined with the event being held again at CBA attendees’ number 1 rated convention venue, I believe that CBA’s 53rd Annual Convention will be one that all look back on with great fondness. Thank you again for your collective commitment to making CBA the pre-eminent banking association in Georgia! I am looking forward to seeing everyone in a few short weeks.

FROM THE TOP

David Lance President & CEO Greater Community Bank 2020-2021 CBA Chairman

Making a Meaningful Difference… The Community Bankers Association of Georgia is focused on providing members with valuable resources. In this issue, we want to highlight Associate Members and Preferred Service Providers. These key partners offer many solutions that include mortgages, fintech, cyber security, website management, and accounting services. They also serve as program instructors, as well as sponsor, advertise, and volunteer at many CBA events. My bank board recently completed our compliance training for the year presented by CBA and John Sillay. The Board was complementary of the efficiency and depth of the training. For those of you who have not had the opportunity to work with CBA’s Kristi Greer, SVP of Professional Development, she is a superb resource and does a fantastic job creating custom training programs that are beneficial and can be provided on-site at your bank. With industry technology evolving at lighting speed, our partners stand ready to provide members with professional services. I encourage you to engage with these key partners at the upcoming CBA 53rd Annual Convention & Mini-Trade Show, June 2-6, at the Ritz Carlton in Amelia Island, Florida.

As we reflect on 2020, we have all had to make changes in our day-to-day operations in order to meet the needs of our communities. That is why the focus and theme for this year’s conference is The Power of Change. I encourage you to study the convention agenda as there are many interesting and important topics to choose from including Revenue Generation, Fintech, Change Management, How to Build a Better Board and Sequential Marketing, just to name a few. This year’s opening keynote speaker is Galen Emanuele, a motivational speaker that will impact the way you communicate and drive the culture of your team. There will also be breakout sessions for three audiences – CEO’s, Bank Directors and Leadership. Each will provide innovative ideas to take back to your community and better serve your customers. In many ways, the unique circumstances of this past year helped unite my bank to realize our purpose to improve the lives of our customers and team members and, together, better our communities and society. We are working together to create a deep sense of belonging where our team members can make a meaningful difference. I look forward to connecting with you at this year’s event to hear your successes and celebrate the accomplishments of our industry.

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Corner GENERAL COUNSEL

legal news and updates for cba members

Have a topic you would like to see covered in “General Counsel Corner?” Email us at generalcounselcorner @ jamesbatesllp.com

cbahotline

@ jamesbatesllp.com

David B. Anderson

Attorney (478) 336-5517

danderson@jamesbatesllp.com

Corrie E. Hall

Attorney (478) 749-9949

chall@jamesbatesllp.com

Scott D. Shipley

Attorney (404) 987-7961

May/June 2021

11TH CIRCUIT CLARIFIES WEBSITE LIABILITY UNDER THE ADA By David B. Anderson, Corrie E. Hall and Scott D. Shipley

Many financial institutions have received letters from plaintiffs’ attorneys alleging that their websites are not accessible to disabled persons. These letters typically claim that the financial institution’s website is in violation of Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”), which mandates that disabled persons shall not be denied the enjoyment of a “place of public accommodation”. These claims are premised on the assumption that financial institution websites are “places of public accommodation” under the ADA and that banks are liable for noncompliance with the ADA. Until recently, the United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit (the “Eleventh Circuit”), which has jurisdiction over federal cases in Alabama, Georgia, and Florida, had not given clear guidance on this issue.

intangible barrier to the visually impaired plaintiff because the plaintiff was still able to shop at Winn-Dixie’s physical store and had been doing so for years.

Following the Eleventh Circuit’s ruling, your financial institution should consider the services offered on and the capabilities of its website. At this point, the key question that must be considered is whether your financial institution’s website could operate as an intangible barrier to the bank. Depending on the functions and capabilities of the website, the answer may be clear-cut or it could be more of a grey area. Accordingly, we recommend that any decision regarding website-based services be carefully considered by management, your institution’s Board of Directors, and legal However, the Eleventh Circuit did not stop its counsel. Further, we strongly recommend that analysis there. In Gil, the visually impaired your institution ensure that disabled persons plaintiff alleged that Winn-Dixie’s website was have equal access to all services provided by an intangible barrier to Winn-Dixie’s grocery the institution on its website and at its physical store, which is a place of public accommodation. locations. The Eleventh Circuit held, among other things, that (i) Winn-Dixie’s website had limited Should you want to discuss this case, the functionality; (ii) there was no point-of-sale issues raised in this article, or have questions capability through the website; and (iii) the pertaining Title III ADA liability and your plaintiff was not prevented from physically institution’s website, please contact us and we shopping in the store by the website. Based will be glad to assist you. on the foregoing, the Eleventh Circuit held that Winn-Dixie’s website did not act as an On April 7, 2021, the Eleventh Circuit, in Gil v. Winn-Dixie, finally addressed this issue headon. The Eleventh Circuit held that a website is not a “place of public accommodation” under the ADA. In reaching this conclusion, the Eleventh Circuit focused on the fact that websites are not tangible, physical places, and that intangible, non-physical places like a website are not included in the ADA’s list of places of public accommodations. Rather, the ADA’s list includes places such as zoos, museums, restaurants, etc.

sshipley@jamesbatesllp.com

PRESENTED BY GEORGIA’S LAW FIRM: OFFICES MACON + ATLANTA + ATHENS

“General Counsel Corner,” a recurring column featuring legal news and information of interest to CBA members, is brought to you by James-Bates-Brannan-Groover-LLP. Visit us at GeorgiasLawFirm.com

THE LATEST

Announcing the 2021 CBA Town Hall Talks. The Town Hall Talks are a multi-location, grassroots alternative to the Day at the Dome. Bankers, Preferred Service Providers, Associate Members along with bank customers are invited to engage with legislators at several locations across the state. The events will be styled like a “Town Hall,” where legislators participate in a Q&A panel as well as an open forum discussion. Mark your calendar - more details and information to come.

SAVE THE DATES!

September 9th – Calhoun October 7th – Albany

November 9th – Augusta or Savannah November 16th – Augusta or Savannah

Special thanks to our Premier Sponsors: Harland Clarke, ICBA, ICBA Securities, James-Bates-Brannan-Groover LLP, SHAZAM, Warren Averett and WIPFLI. Additional sponsors include: Eclipse Brand Builders, FITECH, and IntraFI.

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THE LATEST

APRILTee’d 28, 2021 | ATLANTA Bankers and Partners It Up for a Good Cause!

What could be better? A nice spring day, golf, food, refreshments, prizes, networking, all while raising money to support CBA’s PAC fund. The Atlanta Topgolf PAC/PR Showdown was definitely a Win-Win for all! Participants who wore their CBA Community Banking t-shirt were in for a big surprise as they received a Swag Bag full of PARTY OF FORE nice items, compliments of CBA partner companies.

Congratulations to the winners and thanks to everyone who participated.

PRIZE SPONSOR

PAR PARTNERS

GENESYS TECHNOLOGY GROUP

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PAR PARTNER & SIGNAGE

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THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! STS Group United Bankers' Bank Wipfli Signage - Both DeNyse Companies Prize Sponsor - Both The Independent Bankers Bank Par Partners - Augusta Banc Card of America Newcleus

Par Partners - Atlanta DeNyse Companies Executive Insurance Agency FITECH Genesys Technology Group Mauldin & Jenkins Point to Point Environmental Player of the Year - Both Eclipse Brand Builders, LLC Warren Averett, LLC Player of the Year - Atlanta Kasasa

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THE LATEST

THANK YOU!

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Considering BOLI for your bank? Considering Supplemental Benefits to attract and retain top talent?

Already have BOLI/Benefits? Request a free, independent audit of your BOLI/Benefit plans!

BFS Group, a leading expert in the BOLI industry, is a national firm with an exclusive focus on community banks. BFS Group supports the management of all BOLI portfolios with the primary goal of providing unparalleled customer support, increasing the bank’s bottom line, increasing shareholder value and funding meaningful benefits for all bank employees. BFS Group is directly appointed by all major BOLI carriers which enables us to design BOLI portfolios that can be tailored to the bank’s specific goals and objectives. We are also endorsed by the CBA of Georgia, as well as many other state and national banking associations throughout the country.

John Gianacaci Regional Managing Director (609) 915-9168 jgianacaci@bfsgroup.com

Already have BOLI? Request a free, independent BOLI audit from BFS Group. 1 0 | ww w. cbao fga.com | Ma y / J une 2021

SPOTLIGHT

CBA’s 53rd Convention is just a few weeks away! CBA’s Convention Committee and CBA Staff have been busy ensuring a convention experience like never before! New ideas, new connections, an additional day of programming, networking and more. This year’s convention has something for everyone from General Session topics to a variety of breakout sessions. See old friends and meet new ones during the Thursday Night PAC Fundraiser, the Ultimate Beach Party, networking breaks with Exhibitors, or at the Chairman’s Reception & Dinner.

Here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store for you!

GENERAL SESSION PRESENTATIONS:

Creating a “Yes, And” Culture of High-Level Performance & Engagement Galen Emanuele

Everything Has Changed! We May Not Return to “Normal” Philip Smith President, Gerrish Smith Tuck, PC

General Session: Digital Evolution: Best Practices, Understand the Process, Creating a Digital Roadmap Terry Ammons Partner for FinTechs/ Financial Services Companies, WIPLI

Intentional Inclusion & Diversity Leslie Schreiner CPA, CDP Director of Diversity & Inclusion, Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta

Highlighting Kathryn Bunn, VP, Fintech, Atlantic Capital Bank & Kris St. Martin, Vice President, CBIZ

Marcie Montoya Principal, Strategic Advisory Services Leader, WIPFLI

Creating Brand Advocacy, Ritz Carlton Speaker

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SPOTLIGHT GENERAL SESSIONS (cont’d) Why Innovate? Why Fintech?

Moderated by Scott Mills, President, William Mills Agency Charles Potts, SVP and Chief Innovation Officer, ICBA David Saylor, President, Genesys Technology Group plus a Banker Panelist

Mills

Potts

Regulator Debrief/Recap and Legal Update with Q/A Moderated by Michael White, Partner, James-Bates-Brannan-Groover LLP and Lori Godfrey, CBA

Saylor

Conversation with the Regulators

Moderated by Corrie Hall, Partner, James-Bates-Brannan-Groover LLP and Lori Godfrey, Chief of Staff, Executive Vice President, Government and Regulatory Relations

Leading Change Through Culture Mr. Brandon Kinsey Co-Founder, Kinsey Management LLC

Regulators from FDIC, Georgia Department of Banking & Finance, OCC, Federal Reserve invited

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SPOTLIGHT

Breakout Sessions - Your Convention, Your Way! Choose from different speakers and topics each day for a one-of-a-kind, personalized experience!

THURSDAY

• Directors: How to Build a Better Board Mr. Philip Smith, President, Gerrish Smith Tuck, PC Success for your organization may very well begin or end at the board of directors level. • Revenue Generation Panel Join your fellow bankers to discover services to increase revenue and non-interest income. Panel Moderator – Dan Speight, Planters First Bank Panelists - Jim Reber, ICBA Securities Skip Wilcox, Crescent Mortgage Matt Mingenback, FiTech Arne Monson, Holtmeyer & Monson Ryan Busenitz, Kasasa

FRIDAY

• Digital Evolution Using a Case Study & Panel Mr. Terry Ammons, CPA, CISA, CTPRP, Partner, WIPFLI We will take a deeper dive into Digital Evolution Best Practices, the Process, and Digital Roadmap by looking at a case study. • Director’s Topic: High Performance Investment Portfolios Mr. Jim Reber, President & CEO, ICBA Securities We will compare and contrast a high-yielding portfolio to a lesser one, and discuss the risks inherent in any portfolio, especially one with a higher-than-average yield. • Cybersecurity Director Briefing: Latest Threats, Director Risks and Safeguards Mr. Kris St. Martin, Vice President, CBIZ | Ms. Tiffany Garcia, Director, CBIZ As a bank executive, staying on top of cyber threats allows you to ask the right questions of your team, satisfy regulators concerns of executive engagement and lower your personal risk in the event of a data breach. • Faster Payment Systems Mr. Manish Nathwani, Senior Vice President, Product Development, SHAZAM Manish makes complex technical subjects understandable for all audiences. As chair of the 2021 U.S. Payments Forum Steering Committee, he is a catalyst when it comes to new payments solution technologies.

SATURDAY

• Sequential Marketing — Why it’s a Must in Today’s Business Development Mr. Keith Brannan, Chief Marketing Officer, Kasasa It’s an age-old truth: humans love stories. So it’s no surprise that sequential marketing is so big right now. Read more. • Talent Acquisition Shouldn’t be a Gamble: Strategies to Stack Your Talent Deck; Deep Dive with Bank Case Study Mr. Brandon Kinsey, Co-Founder, Kinsey Management LLC As a bank leader, the single most important job you have is getting the right people into the right roles. M ay/ J u n e 2 0 2 1 | G e or g i a C om m un i ti es F i rs t | 15

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SPOTLIGHT

Partners for Change Mini-Trade Show A long-time tradition at CBA conventions, the popular Mini-Trade Show is changing it up this year, offering more time for bankers and providers to connect. Join 30 of the country’s top financial services providers for the “Partners for Change” Mini-Trade Show and learn about new offerings to help your bank become more efficient and enhance the customer experience. Visit with CBA partners on Thursday and Friday during breakfast and during extended breaks. Register for incredible prizes at each booth while taking in valuable information. CBA will have a bingo-style card for exhibitors to stamp. Visit all 30 booths by noon on Friday to be eligible for the $500 cash prize, compliments of Crescent Mortgage.

Download and explore the CBA App for access to all CBA has to offer including Events, News, Publications, and Photos! Scan this code with your phone's camera and click the link to download or click the buttons above to download the app Access the convention app on your computer by clicking here.

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Helping your bank fight elder financial abuse in your community

Georgia’s seniors need your help! Make a meaningful impact by sponsoring the protection of vulnerable senior housing residents in your community. Contact us to learn about partnership opportunities within your bank’s footprint.

shcpfoundation.org 877-232-0859

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CONVENTION

POCKET AGENDA

FRIDAY JUNE 4TH 7:30 AM - 8:00 AM

Breakfast

8:00 AM - 8:15 AM

Kick Off

8:15 AM - 9:15 AM

Digital Evolution: Best Practices, Understand the Process, Creating a Digital Roadmap - Terry Ammons & Marcie Montoya, WIPFLI

9:20 AM - 10:10 AM

Breakout Session A: Digital Evolution Using a Case Study & Panel, Terry Ammons & Marcie Montoya, WIPFLI

9:20 AM - 10:10 AM

Breakout Session - Director’s Topic: High Performance Investment Portfolios - Jim Reber

General Sessions held in the Talbot Ballroom

WEDNESDAY JUNE 2ND 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Joint CBA Board Meeting & LEAD Committee Meeting

1:00 PM - 1:50 PM

Associate Member & Member Services Committee Meeting

1:00 PM - 1:50 PM

Education Committee Meeting

10:10 AM - 10:55 AM

Partners for Change Mini-Trade Show Break

2:00 PM - 2:50 PM

Advocacy Committee Meeting

2:00 PM - 2:50 PM

Innovation Committee Meeting

10:55 AM - 11:45 AM

Breakout Session: Faster Payment Systems - Manish Nathwani-SHAZAM

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Convention Registration

10:55 AM - 11:45 AM

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Exhibitor Set-Up

6:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Board and LEAD Reception

Breakout Session: Cybersecurity Director Briefing: Latest Threats, Director Risks and Safeguards - Kris St. Martin & Tiffany Garcia

11:50 AM - 12:35 PM

6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Board and LEAD Dinner

Breakout Session: Faster Payment Systems - Manish Nathwani

12:35 PM - 12:40 PM

General Announcements

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

CBA Ultimate Beach Party

THURSDAY JUNE 3

7:30 AM - 8:00 AM

Breakfast

8:00 AM - 8:15 AM

Convention Kick Off

8:15 AM - 9:15 AM

"Creating a 'Yes and ' Culture of High-Level Performance and Engagement" Galen Emanuale

SATURDAY JUNE 5TH 7:30 AM - 8:00 AM

Breakfast

8:00 AM - 8:15 AM

Kick Off

8:15 AM - 9:20 AM

Conversation with the Regulators - FDIC, GA State Banking Department, OCC, Fed

9:20 AM - 9:35 AM

Regulator Debrief/ Recap and Legal Update with Q&A - Michael White

9:35 AM - 10:25 AM

Leading Change Through Culture Brandon Kinsey

10:25 AM - 10:35 AM

Break

10:55 AM - 11:45 AM

Breakout Session: Sequential Marketing — Why it’s a Must in Today’s Business Development - Keith Brannan

9:15 AM - 9:30 AM

Stretch and Pictures with Galen Emanuale

9:30 AM - 10:15 AM

Everything Has Changed! We May Not Return to “Normal” - Phillip Smith

10:15 AM - 11:00 AM

Partners for Change Mini-Trade Show Break

11:00 AM - 11:45 AM

Breakout Session: Directors: How to Build a Better Board - Phillip Smith

11:00 AM - 11:45 AM

Breakout Session: Revenue Generation Panel - Panel: Matt Mingenback, Arnie Monson, Jim Reber, Dan Speight, Skip Wilcox

10:50 AM - 11:25 AM

11:50 PM - 12:35 PM

General Session - Intentional Inclusion & Diversity - Leslie Schreiner (FHLB) & Highlighting Kathryn Bunn & Kris St. Martin

Breakout Session: Talent Acquisition Shouldn’t be a Gamble: Strategies to Stack Your Talent Deck; Deep Dive with Bank Case Study - Brandon Kinsey

11:30 AM - 12:20 PM

Creating Brand Advocacy

12:20 PM - 12:30 PM

7-Minute Spotlight - Clayton Braswell

06:30 PM - 07:30 PM

Reception

07:30 PM - 08:30 PM

Chairman’s Dinner

12:35 PM - 12:45 PM

General Announcements

8:00 PM - 10:00 PM

PAC/PR Fundraiser Evening Event & Silent Auction

08:30 PM - 11:30 PM

Chairman’s Party

M ay/ J u n e 2 0 2 1 | G e or g i a C om m un i ti es F i rs t | 19

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SPOTLIGHT

THANK YOU TO OUR PREFERRED SERVICE PROVIDERS DIAMOND PROVIDERS

PLATINUM PROVIDERS

GOLD PROVIDERS

SILVER PROVIDERS

BRONZE PROVIDERS

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS GOLD SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

GENERAL SPONSOR

INDIVIDUAL EVENT SPONSORS GENESYS TECHNOLOGY GROUP

In-Room Gift Thursday Night

Mini-Trade Show Grand Prize

60-Second Commercial

Thursday Promo Items

Saturday Keynote Speaker Introduction

Friday Promo Items

Convention Totes

Thursday Night Hosted Bar Co-Sponsors

Bottled Water

Friday Breakfast

Convention Swag Item

In-Room Gift Friday Night

Friday Cash Prize, Thursday Breakout 7-Minute Spotlight, and Sessions Coffee Break Kids’ Welcome Kits

CyberSecurity Director Breakout

WiFi Wednesday Saturday

Convention Signage

Saturday Breakfast

Snack Bags/Welcome Refreshments

Ribbon Sponsor & Selfie Station Board Appreciation Reception & Dinner Co-Sponsors

Friday Breakout Sessions Coffee Break

Photo Booth

Saturday Promo Items

Thursday Night Desserts & Coffee Co-Sponsors Saturday Cash Prize

Name Badges & Wednesday Committee Meetings

Ultimate Beach Party Co-Sponsors

For more information on sponsorships, please contact Lindsay Greene at (770) 541-0376.

Chairman Reception & Banquet CoSponsor, 60-Second Commercial, Board Gift & Meeting Refreshments

Charging Station & Saturday Night Entertainment Co-Sponsor

Thursday Night Opening Event - PAC Fundraiser, Chairman Reception & Banquet Co-Sponsor, Thursday Keynote Speaker introduction, 60-Second Commercial

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CBA IS YOUR SOURCE FOR PARTNER SOLUTIONS

CBA 2021 PREFERRED SERVICE PROVIDERS

It’s our pleasure to introduce you to CBA’s 2021 Preferred Service Providers. Each of the businesses below 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!

DIAMOND PROVIDERS Harland Clarke | Check Printer/Customer Engagement 704.526.7910 | www.harlandclarke.com Ms. Janine Ciranni | janine.ciranni@harlandclarke.com

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; and marketing services such as deposit and loan acquisition programs, digital marketing, performance analytics and promotional products for businesses. It deploys these solutions holistically, across print, phone, and digital channels, ensuring that the customers of its world-class client base enjoy a consistently superior experience. Harland Clarke is a Vericast business (www.vericast.com).

ICBA Securities | Securities

James-Bates-Brannan-Groover-LLP Legal Services

Mr. Dan Brannan | dbrannan@jamesbatesllp.com 404-997-6023 | www.jamesbatesllp.com

The Banking & Financial Institutions Practice Group’s mission is to provide affordable consultative solutions to clients in the banking and financial services industry. Our attorneys routinely advise financial institutions on a wide range of complex legal and regulatory issues, as well as industry best practices. The firm’s clients include publicly and privately held community banks, insurance companies, finance companies, investment companies, private equity funds, private investors, check cashing processors, and consulting companies in the financial institutions area.

901-762-5880 | http://www.icbasecurities.com Mr. Jim Reber | jreber@icbasecurities.com

SHAZAM | Debit Network Program ICBA Securities provides a full suite of investment products and Mr. Alex Jernigan | jjernig@shazam.net services for community banks through its exclusive broker, Vining 229-861-3802 | www.shazam.net Sparks. Included are traditional fixed-income securities, interest rate proucts, whole loans, M&A and valuation services, and investment SHAZAM pioneered the PIN-debit point-of-sale transaction, still advisory services. Vining Sparks also has state-of-the-art asset/ used worldwide today. We’re the only nationwide independent, liability and bond accounting products. ICBA Securities, a whollymember-owned debit network, processor and core provider owned subsidiary of the ICBA, provides a full calendar of educational supporting community banks. Since we don’t answer to shareholders, events for community bankers and investment professionals. ICBA we can reinvest profits in technologies our clients need as they serve Securities is endorsed by 32 affiliated state banking associations and the next generation of consumers. SHAZAM ensures our clients is the only broker/dealer owned by the community banking industry. have the products and services they demand and expect in a cost effective way. Founded in 1976 and headquartered in Iowa, we’re a leader in payments and financial technology, with a simple mission: Strengthening community financial institutions. Independent Community Bankers of America Trade Association Mr. Scott Brown | scott.brown@icba.org 334-328-5731 | www.icba.org

ICBA is dedicated exclusively to representing the interests of the community banking industry and its membership through effective advocacy, best-in-class education, and high-quality products and services. 2 2 | ww w. cbao fga.com | Ma y / J une 2021

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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CBA IS YOUR SOURCE FOR PARTNER SOLUTIONS

PLATINUM PROVIDERS

Warren Averett, LLC | Regulatory Risk Management Ms. Lisa Small | lisa.small@warrenaverett.com 770-396-1100 | www.warrenaverett.com

Warren Averett has grown substantially over the last few years to become one of the largest accounting firms in the Southeastern region, ranking among the top 30 firms in the United States. With more than 800 employees and 340 CPAs across 15 offices, Warren Averett offers depth and experience in financial services, with services that span beyond audit and tax to include wealth management, staffing and recruiting, technology consulting, financial outsourcing, retirement plan administration and investments. Our Banking Services Group is made up of 50+ professionals serving a variety of financial institutions, from community banks, state banks, public banks, de novo banks and insurance organizations. We go beyond the typical audit, accounting and tax return functions to find unique ways to improve your overall operational efficiencies.

Wipfli | CPA Firms

Mr. Sonny MacArthur | sonny.macarthur@wipfli.com 404-588-4200 | www.wipfli.com

Wipfli LLP ranks among the top 20 accounting and business consulting firms in the nation. For 90 years, our financial institutions practice has educated, advised, and assisted financial institutions in the successful navigation of the complex and ever-changing environment they face. Let our professionals assist you with your regulatory compliance, profit improvement, risk management, strategic planning/board development, IT services/cybersecurity, HR consulting, and audit and tax needs.

Thinking about updating your branch to a more efficient design while improving the customer experience? STS can help. We provide consulting for branch remodels and new branches across Georgia and the Southeast.

We are a CBA Gold Level Preferred Service Provider.

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CBA IS YOUR SOURCE FOR PARTNER SOLUTIONS

GOLD PROVIDERS ATM Response | Armored Cash Logistics

FITECH | Merchant Services

Mr. Clayton Braswell | cbraswell@atmresponse.com 770-231-7425 | www.atmresponse.com

Mr. Matt Mingenback | mmingenback@Fitech.com 662-801-7578 | www.Fitech.com

ATM Response is an armored car company providing custom cash logistics and ATM maintenance solutions for Financial Institutions throughout the southeast. Founded in 1982 and based in Suwanee, Georgia, ATM Response offers a wide range of service offerings including Cash Delivery from the Federal Reserve, ATM Maintenance Programs and ATM Balancing and Replenishment.

FITECH is a merchant services provider that was founded to serve community banks exclusively. With their relationship first approach, FITECH has been able to assist community banks in being more competitive with merchant services resulting in growth for the bank and adding many benefits for their business customers. GENESYS TECHNOLOGY GROUP

Bankers Healthcare Group, Inc. | Financial Services Mr. Brian Mullett | bmullett@bhg-inc.com 315-671-4127 | www.bhg-inc.com

Genesys Technology Group | Bank Consulting Mr. David Saylor | david@genesystg.com 770-729-4139 | www.genesysbanking.com

Genesys Technology Group impacts your bottom line. We Since 2001, Bankers Healthcare Group has provided loan products understand that you are making an investment by utilizing our to a network of over 1,000 banks, nationwide. BHG has underwritten services. Technology is one of the largest drains on your balance over $20 billion in funding requests and worked with tens of thousands sheet and your choices in the market today are extensive. Genesys of healthcare and other professionals throughout the United States. assists community bankers in making wise technology decisions and BHG’s loan program has become a secure, innovative opportunity for encourages bankers to look at their technology holistically. A global banks to achieve asset growth and portfolio diversification. view of your technology leverages your buying power and through solid vendor management principles your bank is better positioned

Crescent Mortgage Company | Mortgage Services Mr. Skip Willcox | swillcox@crescentmortgage.net 478-272-5202 | www.crescentmortgage.com

Founded in 1993, Crescent Mortgage has been the premier provider of secondary mortgage offerings for Community Banks. As a Community Bank owned, top 25 national wholesale and correspondent lender, we are “totally committed to exceeding the expectations of our customers.” Loan products include Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHA, VA, USDA, Jumbo and one-time close construction to permanent financing. We offer Wholesale and Correspondent lending options, contract processing, free training, as well as free access to loan origination, compliance, and automated underwriting systems. Crescent will help you increase your profit and reduce your risk in mortgage lending.

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to maximize the return on its technology dollar. Genesys specializes in technology evaluations and renegotiations. Simply put Genesys saves your institution time and money, thereby providing immediate impact to your bottom line.

Holtmeyer & Monson | SBA Lending

Mr. Arne Monson | amonson@holtandmon.com 800-340-7304 | www.holtandmon.com

Holtmeyer & Monson provides banks with comprehensive, outof-house services and the high level of expertise required for SBA lending. The Company helps community banks offer small businesses access to capital while benefiting from a profitable source of noninterest fee income. Holtmeyer & Monson covers every stage of the process – from loan packaging and closing, to securitization and sale, through portfolio servicing. Based on its full-service capabilities and credibility, institutions can be confident that their SBA lending credits will be handled expertly, efficiently and with the highest levels of safety and soundness.

CBA IS YOUR SOURCE FOR PARTNER SOLUTIONS

IntraFi Network | Financial Services

Mr. Danny Capitel | dcapitel@promnetwork.com 770-630-6796 | www.promnetwork.com

STS Group | Bank Supplies/Equipment

Mr. Chris Nelson | cnelson@stsgrp.com 256-260-7963 | www.stsgrp.com

Promontory Interfinancial Network is now IntraFi Network. Having STS Group understands customer service is top priority. With focus on built the largest bank network of its kind, we’re a trusted ally service, STS Group has experienced tremendous growth, becoming to community banks that never competes with banks for their the Southeast region’s strongest provider of financial security, ATMs, customers and that helps them to attract and maintain valuable and branch automation equipment. With their involvement in CBA, customer relationships, grow reciprocal deposits, manage FBA, and ABA, their reputation of outstanding service continues to liquidity and generate fee income, diversify funding, and reduce spread throughout the region. collateralization. Work with the market leader to grow profitability and increase franchise value. IntraFi Network’s innovative balancesheet management solution — known as IntraFi Network Deposits (formerly CDARS®, ICS®, and IND® deposit solutions) — empowers institutions to increase profitability, grow franchise value, manage Travelers | Insurance Services liquidity more easily, and serve customers better. Ms. Diana Baker | DCBaker@travelers.com 678-317-7882 | https://www.travelers.com

Point to Point Environmental | Environmental Consulting Mr. Mark Faas | mfaas@p2penvironmental.com (678) 565-4435 | http://www.p2penvironmental.com

P2P Environmental is an environmental and geotechnical firm who provides full-service environmental due diligence assistance for commercial and industrial property transactions including Records Search with Risk Assessments (RSRA), Transaction Screening Reports, Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESA) and Phase II ESAs. Point to Point Environmental will fast track your project so that there are no delays in closing.

Travelers knows financial institutions. With dedicated policies for financial institutions, Travelers offers a range of insurance protection, including D&O, cyber, professional liability, financial institution bonds, ID fraud expense reimbursement and a full portfolio of property/ casualty coverages. Choose either standalone coverage or a suite of coverages. Travelers has the flexibility to adapt to you and your business.

#1 Source for Top-Performing Loans Gain exclusive access to our secure, state-of-the-art loan delivery platform and learn how more than 1,200 community banks have earned over $700MM in interest income as a BHG partner.

Visit the BHG LOAN HUB today bhgloanhub.com/GA

BHG-FQ_CBA-GA_LH_half-Horiz.indd 1

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CBA IS YOUR SOURCE FOR PARTNER SOLUTIONS

SILVER PROVIDERS ACG | ATM Services

Mr. Phil Winn | Ms. Tracy Dobson Phil.Winn@acgworld.com 770-442-9800 | www.ACGWorld.com

ACG is Atlanta based and has proudly served Georgia Community Banks for over 30 years. ACG has been a CBA endorsed member for more than 15 years! Re-Manufactured ATMs look and perform like a new product; they are environmentally friendly and a costeffective way to upgrade and expand your fleet. ACG is the largest ATM re-manufacturer in the world. If your fleet needs an update, we offer wraps, canopies, custom screens and full-service turnkey deployment. ACG is the US Master Distributor for ATEC Teller Cash Recyclers. A TCR can increase revenue, improve customer and teller satisfaction, decrease risk, decrease costs, and improve your brand! ACG is one of the largest suppliers of parts world-wide. Proper service eliminates downtime, maintains compliance, protects your brand, extends equipment lifespan, and increases ROI. AntiSkimming Security Solutions: The ECS series of products provide best-in-class protection at your ATM.

BFS Group | Compensation & Executive Benefit Plans Mr. John Gianacaci | jgianacaci@bfsgroup.com 609-915-9168 | www.bfsgroup.com

CRA Partners | Compliance

Mr. Shea Gabrielleschi Shea.Gabrielleschi@shcpfoundation.org 877-232-0859 | www.shcpfoundation.org

CRA Partners offers a compliance solution powered by the Senior Housing Crime Prevention Foundation. Since our inception in 2000, we have helped banks across the country earn meaningful CRA credit for ensuring safe senior living environments through our turnkey crime prevention program, Senior Crimestoppers. Senior Crimestoppers protects low- to moderate-income seniors living in senior housing facilities, HUD communities and state veteran’s homes from theft, abuse and neglect. Our flexible funding options make it simple for banks to get involved through a community development loan, community development investment, or a grant – it all depends on your bank’s CRA needs.

Eclipse Brand Builders | Building Designers/Consultants Mr. Michael Smith | msmith@eclipsebrandbuilders.com 678-890-1140 | http://eclipsebrandbuilders.com

Eclipse Brand Builders is an award-winning design-build firm specializing in facility consulting, marketing, architecture, interior design, engineering, and construction management services for financial institutions in Georgia and throughout the Southeast. From small renovations to large new construction, our team has the experience necessary to make your next project a success!

BFS Group is a national leader in providing BOLI products, services, administration, and consulting. With over 525 community bank clients and 12 Regional offices throughout the country, BFS Group supports the management of all BOLI portfolios with the primary goal of providing unparalleled customer support, increasing the bank’s bottom line earnings and enhancing shareholder value. BFS Group also delivers unmatched expertise in the design, implementation, and servicing of executive & director Non- Qualified Benefit plans to Executive Insurance Agency, Inc. reward, retain and attract key individuals. Property & Casualty Insurance

Mr. Ryan Sower | ryan@executiveinsuranceagency.com 770-474-2355 | www.executiveinsuranceagency.com

CBIZ | Insurance Services

Mr. Kris St. Martin | kstmartin@cbiz.com 763-549-2267 | https://www.cbiz.com

With increased regulatory enforcement, cyber threats and board of director litigation, the banking industry faces significant exposures. Managing risk through best practices and insurance are key factors to safeguard you and your customers’ assets. CBIZ risk consultants leverage their financial institution knowledge to provide comprehensive risk solutions designed to safeguard your institution. CBIZ is a leader in bank services including insurance, insurance reviews, payroll, outsourced credit analysis, accounting, tax, audit, cyber risk consulting, retirement plans, employee benefits and valuation. 2 8 | ww w. cbao fga.com | Ma y / J une 2021

Founded and family-owned since 1980, Executive Insurance Agency provides comprehensive insurance solutions for financial institutions needing customized protection for collateralized loans and mortgages. These products include Blanket VSI, Collateral Protection, Flood, Guaranteed Asset Protection “GAP”, as well as both Blanket and Creditor Placed Mortgage.

SPOTLIGHT

Kasasa | Retail Banking Strategies

Mr. Ryan Busenitz | ryan.busenitz@kasasa.com 678-595-0625 | www.kasasa.com

Kasasa® is the innovative leader in branded, community-powered banking products proven to drive profit and growth for community financial institutions. Based in Austin, Texas with 420+ employees, Kasasa is committed to driving results for more than 907 community financial institutions by attracting, engaging, and retaining consumers. Kasasa does this through branded retail products, world class marketing, and expert consulting. The company reinvented checking and is now reinventing lending through its latest patentpending offering, Kasasa LoansTM.

Mauldin & Jenkins | CPA Firms

Mr. Ron Mitchell | rmitchell@mjcpa.com 229-446-3600 | www.mjcpa.com

Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC provides a full range of services including audit, tax, internal audit, risk management, compliance, loan review, information technology and consulting advice to publicly and privately held financial institutions throughout the Southeast. For 100 years, M&J’s financial institution expertise has represented a pool of resources that allows us to customize services to meet your institution’s specific needs. Our goal is to build relationships and continue our tradition of success one satisfied client at a time.

Newcleus | Compensation & Executive Benefit Plans

Mr. J.R. Llewellyn | JR.Llewellyn@newcleus.com 678-427-1015 | www.newcleus.com

Newcleus is the premier benefit plan and financing strategy provider in the banking industry. Our size and tenure allow us to provide our clients and advisors with the best products, services, administration, and regulatory compliance support available. Our proprietary MINTS platform currently services over 45,000 policies for more than 750 financial institutions throughout the U.S.

QwickRate | Funding

Ms. Melissa Wallace | melissa.wallace@qwickrate.com 678-797-4062 | www.qwickrate.com

QwickRate’s value-added solutions include: premier CD Marketplace for non-brokered funding and investing with over 3,000 institutional subscribers; IntelliCredit™ Portal to identify emerging portfolio- and loan-level credit risk and for technology-enabled loan reviews; and QwickAnalytics® for bank research, analysis and regulatory tools such as CECLSolver™ and Credit Stress Test.

BRONZE PROVIDERS

AgoraEversole | Advertising/Marketing Mr. Chris Bates | chris@agoraeversole.com 601-366-7370 | https://agoraeversole.com

AgoraEversole offers comprehensive marketing services and solutions to community banks across Georgia. Digital marketing services offered include the GetSocial social media program, Website Design, SEO (Search Engine Optimization), Digital Advertising, and other related marketing services. The traditional program serves needs for newspaper, radio, collateral pieces, etc. Serving almost 100 banks across 15 states, AgoraEversole is your ideal partnership to grow your brand and market share!

Bahr Consultants, Inc. Insurance Risk Management Consulting

Mr. Hank Bahr | hank@bahrconsultantsinc.com 865-694-6098 | www.bahrconsultantsinc.com

Bahr Consultants, Inc. is a “fee only” risk management and insurance consulting firm that specializes in analysis of financial institutions insurance exposures. The focus is on the Financial Institution Bond, Directors & Officers Liability, Cyber Liability, Bankers Professional Liability and Property/Casualty insurance exposures for banks. Founded by W.H. (Hank) Bahr in 1988, Bahr Consultants provides insurance reviews as recommended by the Ga. Dept of Banking, and can assist banks in obtaining competitive insurance pricing and proper insurance coverage through the bid process.

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THANK YOU ASSOCIATE MEMBERS!

When Georgia’s community bankers are looking to do business, they look to CBA Associate Members first. Members have been approved by CBA’s Board of Directors and these companies offer competitive products and services designed to help community banks succeed. What’s more, CBA Associate Members support the association with their sponsorships, advertising, informative articles, and participation in CBA programs. We salute this group of professionals and offer our sincere gratitude! Abrigo

acxell Adams and Reese LLP Adams, Hemingway, Wilson & Rutledge, LLC

Cabretta Capital

Farmer Mac

CalTech

Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta

Capital City Home Loans

FEMAC Security Solutions

Captive Solutions & Options, LLC

Finosec

Carr, Riggs & Ingram, LLC

First Liberty

Cash Transactions, LLC

First National Bankers Bank FIS

Alston & Bird LLP Ameris Bank AmTrust North America Apiture Arctic Wolf Networks Ascensus Atlanta Media Services, LLC

CE Solutions Group Community Lending Partners Compliance Core LLC Computer Services, Inc. Consolidated Banking Services, Inc. Consultants & Builders, Inc. Cornerstone Commercial Mortgages, LLC

CRS Data

Banc Card

Darnel Quick Recovery, Inc.

Banc Consulting Partners

Dart Appraisal DeNyse Companies

BBVA Compass - Correspondent Banking BDS Technology, Inc. Bennett Thrasher Berman Fink Van Horn P.C.

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Georgia Department of Community Affairs Georgia Rural Investment Fund Gerrish Smith Tuck, PC GT Solutions Haberfeld

Balch & Bingham LLP

Barret School of Banking

GEC, Inc.

Gulf Coast Business Credit

Atris Technology

Bankers-Insight Group, LLC

Fiserv

Drew Eckl & Farnham, LLP

Hamilton Mortgage Corp HC3 Hutchins Clenney Rumsey Huckaby, P.C. IBT Apps

Econocheck Elliott Davis Engaged Banker eXperience LLC

ICI Consulting, Inc.

Evans, Simpson & Associates, Inc.

Igler and Pearlman, P.A. Integration 4.0 Inc

Intercept Consulting Group

Performance Trust

Technology Association of Georgia

Piper Sandler & Co.

The Independent Bankers Bank The James Paul Group

J. Outlaw Consulting Jack Henry Banking

Prime Contractors, Inc. ProBank Austin ProcessMaker

Kinsey Management Lee & Mason Financial Services, Inc. Lee Davis Law, LLC Loan Guarantee Insurance Services Logue Advisory Group Martin Snow, LLP Maxwell McNair, McLemore, Middlebrooks & Co., LLC Miller & Martin PLLC Moore, Clarke, DuVall & Rodgers, P.C. MPA Systems National Bank Products, Inc. National Loan Acquisitions, Inc. Nelson Mullins NFP Executive Benefits Nichols, Cauley & Associates, LLC Novus Architects NXTsoft Oculus Software/BNControl Oinkching Inc. Olsen Palmer LLC PaymentsFirst PCBB Pentegra Retirement Services Performance Solutions Inc.

Promontory MortgagePath ProText Raymond James and Associates Reich & Tang S&P Global Market Intelligence Safe Systems SBA Funding Depot, LLC

The Plateau Group, Inc. Thompson Hine LLP Thompson, O’Brien, Kemp & Nasuti, PC TJS Deemer Dana LLP Troutman Pepper TSYS, A Global Payments Company United Bankers’ Bank Upgrade, Inc USDA - Department of Rural Development VSoft Corporation

SBA Works SecureWorks Securian Casualty Company Securitas Financial Services, Inc. ServisFirst Bank Small Town Girls Play Big

WebbMason Marketing WebMobileFusion INC William Mills Agency

York & Associates, LLC

South State Bank, N.A. Southern Bank Equipment & ATMs Southern Financial Systems LLC

Logos represent CBA Preferred Services Providers.

Spectrum Financial Network, Inc. Stackfolio Steve H. Powell & Company Stokes Carmichael & Ernst LLP StoneCastle Strategic Resource Management (SRM) Sugar Creek Capital, LLC Talus Pay

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TRENDS

Munis for the Many

Jim Reber

President & CEO ICBA Securities

Taxable municipal bonds have appeal for nearly all community banks. I have some good news for community bank portfolio managers who have grown weary of some or all of the following conditions that have persisted since 2020: • call option exposure • declining portfolio returns • paltry yield spreads • erratic cash flows

between 3% and 7% of total new issuances. In fact, the only year that taxable munis exceeded 2020’s volume was 2010, and that was purely a function of the narrow window for issuing Build America Bonds (BABs), a type of taxable munis only available for issue in 2009-10.

Chances are, your bank’s portfolio has been affected by at least some of these conditions over the past year. The wild ride in interest rates kept producing surprises for the bond portfolio, and, in truth, about the only thing positive to be said is that prices rose—then declined—over that period. So, banks’ positions have lost value in 2021, but current investment yields have improved, which illustrates the mixed blessing.

CROWD PLEASERS - Now to the afore-promised good news. If your community bank isn’t much invested in munis, taxables could bring some welcome relief to the issues mentioned in the first paragraph. As supply has grown and the interest rate curve has steepened throughout 2021, taxable munis can serve a number of purposes, not the least of which is respectable return. An investor can also now realistically hope for an issue that’s reasonably proximate to its footprint.

Over time, one of the enduring determinants of investment performance is sector weighting. More specifically, the more a bond portfolio consists of municipal bonds, the more likely it will have above-peer yields. According to Vining Sparks, as of Dec. 31, 2020, municipal bonds made up 53% of topquartile community bank portfolios. At the other end of the spectrum, the bottom quartile was only 9% invested in munis. Historically, the amount of munis a bank owns in large part has been determined by a bank’s need to avoid tax liability. Some depository balance sheets have simply not had room for bonds, muni or otherwise. Others haven’t been profitable enough to worry about that option. Still others, such as S Corps, which pass through their earnings to their shareholders, don’t benefit from tax-free earnings. SUPPLY SHIFT - Fast forward to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. Corporate tax rates were reduced around 40%. That was good news for bottom lines, but it lowered the effective yields on all tax-effected assets, such as traditional munis and bank-owned life insurance. Since that time, banks have shed about one-fifth of their tax-frees. Another subtle, but significant, feature in that legislation was to no longer allow muni issuers to “pre-refinance” their outstanding debt into other, new tax-free issues. These older bonds could only be refinanced into taxable issues going forward. That has had a major impact on the types of munis being issued in the current environment. In the 2020 calendar year, fully 30% of municipal bond issues were of the taxable variety. This is a decade-plus high-water mark. Less than 10 years ago, taxable munis were but a blip on the new issue screen. They’d constitute somewhere

Speaking of returns, a high-grade general obligation taxable muni will out-yield a bank-qualified (BQ) issue at any point on the yield curve. As of this writing, a 10-year AA-rated BQ bond will have tax-equivalent yield of about 1.85%, whereas a similar-duration taxable will be about 2.10%. There are a number of reasons for this, including the relative lack of supply of BQ paper. Also, it bears mentioning that S Corp banks, if they’re able to have tax-free income, will recognize higher tax-equivalent yields than their C Corp brethren. What’s the downside? Just like any other taxable security, municipal bonds will have a higher degree of price volatility than tax-frees. However, the additional price risk is less than it used to be back in the era of 36% marginal rates for C Corps. It’s anyone’s guess what the impact of higher marginal tax rates will be to the tax-free muni market, but on the face of it, higher rates should be supportive of taxeffected assets. In the meantime, the growing supply of taxable munis should continue to produce attractive yields. The supply, both in absolute dollars and for a given issue (which isn’t limited to $10 million per issuer per year that BQs are), should produce more than adequate liquidity. The benefits and availability of taxable munis should appeal to the many community banks looking for the right combination of risk and reward. Jim Reber (jreber@icbasecurities.com) is president and CEO of ICBA Securities, ICBA’s institutional, fixed-income brokerdealer for community banks.

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TRENDS

CARES Act USDA Loans Produce Quick Revenue When Congress approved the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act in March 2020, media attention was focused on direct payments to citizens and the SBA’s PPP loan program, and rightly so. Banks suddenly found themselves dealing with a glut of deposits while figuring out a new SBA program on the fly. And as if that weren’t enough, they had to do it exclusively through digital channels, while relocating their loan operations to employees’ spare bedrooms and kitchen tables. Banks were so busy adjusting to COVID-19, many didn’t have time to research how the CARES Act also included profitable government guaranteed loans through the USDA’s Business and Industry program. Qualified lenders, which include federal and state-chartered banks, farm credit banks and credit unions, can receive a 90% government guarantee on approved loans. Qualified rural businesses must have been in operation on or before Feb. 15, 2020. Eligible areas include towns or cities anywhere in the U.S. with a population of 50,000 people or less, including some suburban areas surrounding larger cities. The borrower’s headquarters may be in a city, but the project must be located in an eligible rural area. If you’re an experienced USDA lender, you already know that these loans go to more than just farmers and ranchers. At Community Lending Partners, we’ve placed CARES Act loans from borrowers that include a river boat tour operator, a defense industry aircraft engineering firm, an automotive parts manufacturer and an agricultural equipment producer. CARES Act loan funds can be used for wages, salaries, employee benefits, administrative expenses, insurance, principal and interest payments on loans, and rent or lease payments. Like the PPP program, the goal is to provide a lifeline to rural businesses that have been negatively affected by the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, so they can survive and eventually recover. Like other government guarantee programs, lenders may sell off the guaranteed portion of these loans to quickly inject earnings into their balance sheets. Lenders typically see 30% annualized returns. That makes these CARES Act loans a win-win deal, because participating lenders assist rural communities while also stabilizing and growing their institutions.

Here are more details about USDA B&I loans through the CARES Act: • The maximum term of the working capital line is 10 years, andtheratecanbesetbythelenderusingeitherafixedratefor the term or an adjustable rate (must be annual or quarterly). • The maximum loan amount to one borrower is $25 million. Lenders should utilize a cash flow analysis to calculate the loan amount requested. The calculation is roughly 2.5X the last year’s operating expenses. • The maximum loan amount of the B&I CARES Act Program Loan for working capital purposes may not exceed 12 times the borrower’s total average monthly costs of eligible working capital loan purposes less the total amount of any SBA PPP loans, or other federal emergency assistance received. Many of the loans we have placed at Community Lending Partners have borrowers that are utilizing both the CARES Act working capital loans and applying for the more traditional USDA B&I loan. The program is available until September 2021. Please contact your local USDA state office for more information or feel free to contact me for additional details about this important program for rural businesses and bank balance sheets. Community Lending Partners works with community lenders to assist in placing government guaranteed loans nationally. CLP joined the CBA in 2020, and we welcome the opportunity to speak with your bank at your convenience.

William T. Mullally CEO Community Lending Partners

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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

Benefits, Payroll & HRIS

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

Retirement Plan Services

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 3 6 | ww w. cbao fga.com | Ma y / J une 2021

TRENDS

How Smart Can You Become? The father of Behavioral Economics and 2002 Nobel Prize winner, Daniel Kahneman said, “Intelligence is not only the ability to reason; it is also the ability to find relevant material in memory.” So if you want to increase your intelligence, improve your memory. But how? Think of your brain as a memory warehouse and your recall as a forklift. When you want to retrieve a relevant reference, you send your recall forklift into your vast brain warehouse to find it. The good news is your brain warehouse is practically infinite. But that’s also the bad news, because your brain stores so much data, the challenge is retrieving what you need, when you need it, especially under pressure. There are three levers you can pull to make your recall forklift faster and more accurate: The physical lever, the cognitive lever, and the emotional lever. The Physical Lever Your brain thrives on hydration, nutrition, sleep, and exercise. If you want a better memory – a faster and more accurate recall forklift – stay hydrated, give your brain plenty of nutrients, sleep more, and do cardio exercise. Hydration increases blood volume and carries nutrients to the brain. I’m not an MD, so I cannot recommend specific nutrients for brain function, but a quick search will give you a good list (Hint: Killer B’s and O-3’s). And if you don’t believe sleep effects memory, I would suggest that you don’t yet know how quick and precise your recall can be. Sleep washes away toxins and consolidates bits of data, like defragging a computer. Exercise is the least intuitive. How can your brain, trapped inside your skull, benefit from cardio? Your brain loves oxygen and exercise delivers oxygen to it by the truckload. Exercise also activates Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF). BDNF is like MiracleGro for your neuropathways. The Cognitive Lever A sixty-foot stage with flashing lights, loud music, and dancing bears is easier to find in your cavernous brain warehouse than a small, plain box. We assume simplifying a reference will make it easier to recall, but the opposite tends to be true. Creating an animated and outrageous

story about the thing we want to remember makes it easier for the recall forklift to find it when we need it. This is called elaborative encoding. The cognitive lever is a collection of memory techniques, tips, and tricks, including elaborative encoding, mental models, mnemonics, and even something called a Memory Palace. The Emotional Lever GWARRFFS are monsters that block memories. GWARRFFS is an acronym for Guilt, Worry, Anxiety, Regret, Resentment, Fear, Frustration, and Shame (but it can be any negative emotion). GWARRFFS release neurochemicals like cortisol and adrenaline in your brain that shut down your prefrontal cortex. In other words, the monsters attack your forklift. There are many ways to slay the GWARRFFS. Two of the best ways are writing and walking in the woods. Really. Writing forces clarity of thought. Clarity kills GWARRFFS. And walking (or running) in nature releases good neurochemicals and inhibits the release of bad ones. How smart can you become? The upper limit is hard to know, but one thing is certain: you have not yet reached your potential. Go forth and improve yourself, your teammates, your clients, your communities, and the world.

Lon Langston Founder Engaged Banker eXperience

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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. CBA Today eNewsletter Advertising 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 Website 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’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.

Upcoming Sponsorships: • Advanced BSA/AML Compliance School | August 23 – 27, 2021 • Credit Analyst - Level 1 | June 29-30, 2021 • Avoid Loan Loss - Principles for Loan Officers & Administrators Commercial Loan Documentation | July 22, 2021

PROVIDING MERCHANT SERVICES FOR OVER 600 COMMUNITY BANKS PARTNERSHIP BENEFITS • PROACTIVE/ FACE TO FACE/ LOCAL SERVICE • DEPOSIT GROWTH • LOAN GROWTH • CLIENT RETENTION • STATE OF THE ART TECHNOLOGY

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Contact Banc Card today to see how partnering with us can benefit you and your business clients. 3 8 | ww w. cbao fga.com | Ma y / J une 2021

bmartin@banccard.com

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Education Buzz: Learning & Growth Solutions In our last issue, we asked you to consider several questions: • What are your talent development and employee engagement strategies? • What new skills and competencies do your banker’s need? • How can The Community Bankers Association support your needs? As you continue to participate in our professional development opportunities, we want to encourage you to avoid leaving out the learning transfer piece. Sometimes, we “have

Did you know? COMMUNITY LENDING PARTNERS

to” attend training and sometimes we “want to” receive training. When we choose a learning solution, we normally choose a posture to take action after receiving the knowledge. The term for this is learning transfer. Take 10 minutes after the course and write down three things you will do as a result of your learning. Then take action and share it with your team. Overtime, you will see progression of your own personalized return on investment. Your CBA team believes in ongoing knowledge building and we are here to serve our bankers and associate members with training. Call us with your learning needs.

Kristi Greer

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

Qualified USDA CARES Act borrowers can recieve a government guarantee

90%

Like other government guarantee programs, lenders may sell off the guaranteed portion of these loans to quickly inject earnings into their balance sheets. Put revenue on your balance sheet today!

Bill Mullally

bill@communitylendingpartners.com Phone: (470) 355-2188 USDA CARES Act loans assist rural communities while stabilizing and growing your community bank. Community Lending Partners is a proud member of the Community Bankers Association of Georgia.

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Travelers is delivering $4.4 million in dividends to qualifying policyholders. Are you in? If your bank is a Travelers policyholder, you’re currently enjoying outstanding Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) benefits. If you’re not, you might want to consider the following reasons why you should be insuring with Travelers:

•

Travelers ICBA Insurance program’s Policyholder Safety Group Dividend plan has been paid for 18 consecutive years. The most recent program year produced policyholder dividends of $4.4 million – for a total of nearly $65 million in dividends paid over the past 36 years. Industry-leading risk management solutions and insurance protection tailored to community banks. Financial strength you can rely on.

To learn more, talk to your independent agent or broker or visit travelers.com.

travelers.com Travelers Casualty and Surety Company of America and its property casualty affiliates. Hartford, CT 06183 © 2020 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-9143 Rev. 2-20

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All property casualty coverages may not be available in certain areas; certain lines of coverage may not be eligible for dividend payout. Dividends are not guaranteed and are subject to the approval of the company’s board of directors.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Human Resource Professionals Conference

Jekyll Island or Live Virtual STREAM • Thursday-Friday, May 13-14, 2021 Keynote - The Role of the Innovative CPO: Transforming HR by Playing in the White Space The Role of CPO is rapidly evolving. No matter your current role in HR, you have the opportunity to play in the vast white space within the people operations field and drive innovation from the ground up in your organization. In this presentation, we will cover the role of today's CPO, with specific focus on: • Becoming an Enterprise Change Leader • Defining Talent Strategy • Creating Culture, Place and Purpose (including D&I) • Driving Performance Enablement • Bolstering Executive Accountability This discussion will be interactive. So come prepared to challenge yourself and your colleagues to lead outside of the box! About the Speaker: Caitlin Shetter is a People Operations executive and attorney with significant experience in global business management and Human Resources leadership. Caitlin has been praised as an innovative problem-solver, strategic partner and leader. She has deep experience supporting the CEO and Board of Directors, including compensation planning, executive succession and organizational design, as well as rich experience coaching senior leadership and functional teams to drive organizational growth and effectiveness. Caitlin currently serves as Head of People at Variant in Atlanta, where she oversees total talent while working with the Leadership Team to re-engineer the long-haul trucking industry. Prior to that, Caitlin drove significant growth as Vice President, Head of People at Spanx Inc., where she transformed performance management and created and led a purpose-driven talent development program that fostered leadership in all Spanx employees. Caitlin has also led as a Human Resources professional at Starbucks Coffee Company, Walt Disney World, and VF Corporation.

Ms. Caitlin Shetter Head of People, Variant, Atlanta

In addition to her extensive experience in Human Resources, Caitlin is an attorney with expertise in corporate defense and labor and employment law and has practiced as a trial attorney at two global law firms, Jones Day and Alston & Bird. She also served as a judicial clerk for the Honorable Charles Wilson of the U.S. Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CLICK HERE

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Correspondent Banking Fed Funds Management Servis1st Access Online Settlement Services Credit Card/PCard Program

Holding Company Loans Reg O Loans - Stock Loans Participation Loans De Novo & Escrow Services

Tim Finney

Correspondent Sales Manager Senior Vice President - Georgia 478.952.6497 tfinney@servisfirstbank.com 2500 Woodcrest Place Birmingham, AL 35209 855.881.0364 correspondentbanking@servisfirstbank.com 4 2 | ww w. cbao fga.com | Ma y / J une 2021

Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Congress has passed legislation that includes comprehensive BSA Regulatory Reform. In addition, the growing complexity of the OFAC sanctions and the increased number of individuals and entities is center stage. And let’s not forget the changing landscape of bank the cannabis industry.

Lead Facilitator: Dianne Barton, Performance Solutions Inc.

The BSA/AML Compliance School is a comprehensive four-day program will focus on the latest changing BSA topics above as well as other BSA/AML priorities, and offer tips and tools to develop and manage an effective BSA program. Topics this year include: National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) BSA Implications, Ransomware and BSA Key Initiatives, DOJ Enforcement and Elder Abuse, and more… This comprehensive four-day program will: • highlight the latest changing BSA topics, as well as BSA/TF priorities • offer tips and tools to develop and manage an effective BSA program • review real-world situations and develop take-aways that can be implemented back at your banks

The Executive Channel – Supporting Internal Mentoring

Wow! CBA is honored to witness our C-suite bankers participate in the first executive level forum to support bank management. These bankers committed to their own learning also exhibited a heart for their peers by sharing knowledge and experiences to promote resiliency in the community banking industry. Succession planning has been a hot topic for years in this industry and we must choose to go beyond just writing a policy. Our Executive channel participants encouraged each other to bring a co-worker to the next session in order to support mentoring and building up their workforce. Be looking for the next forum opportunity so that you don’t miss out on ways to remain agile in our industry.

LEARN MORE HERE

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Part 1

Training the Credit Analyst Level 1 is a course designed to address the needs of credit analysts with little or no experience in this position. It is also designed for credit analysts and/or commercial lenders (including branch managers) with no formal training in accounting and credit analysis.

Part 2

Training the Credit Analyst Level 2 is a course designed to address the needs of credit analysts who successfully completed TCA Level 1 or have a minimum of 2 years of experience as a credit analyst or commercial lender. This course will reinforce the credit skills of current credit analysts and commercial / consumer lenders in all aspects of credit analysis.

Instructor: Jeffery Johnson Bankers Insight Group

Choose Part 1, Part 2, or Both! In-Person or Live Virtual STREAM

Strategy. Simplified. Strategic planning for today’s financial institution. Get started at wipfli.com/fi-sp

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