Palmetto Banker 2020-2 by SCBA

PALMETTO SOUTH CAROLINA BANKERS ASSOCIATION

Spring Issue 2020-2

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Contents

Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Message

The Covid 19 Pandemic

S CBA Staf f President & CEO............................. Fred L. Green III Executive Vice President & CFO...... Donna S. Taylor Senior Vice President....................... Carolyn L. Bradley

Meet FDIC Chairman Jelena McWilliams

Young Bankers Division Conference

Director, Advertising & IT............... M. Caroline Snijders Administrative Assistant................... Bonnie E. Nelson

Palmetto Scholarship Winners

The Palmetto Banker is a publication of the South Carolina Bankers Association. The magazine exists to serve its members by communicating news of interest, education and SCBA activities. Items from members are welcome, however the editor reserves the right to refuse copy. With the exception of official announcements, the SCBA disclaims responsibility for opinions expressed and statements made in articles published in the Palmetto Banker.

Senior Vice President....................... E. Anne Gillespie Senior Vice President & Counsel..... A. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neil Rashley, Jr., Esq.

2009 Park Street I PO Box 1483 Columbia, S.C., 29202-1483 803.779.0850 I Fax: 803.779.0890

www.scbankers.org

MI SSION DRIVEN LENDING

Partnerships Matter.

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How can we partner with you? Contact us to learn more.

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President’s Message

MANY HOURS. MANY ACCOMPLISHMENTS.

Thanks. MANY

My letter in the last edition of the Palmetto Banker mentioned we were entering a period of tremendous uncertainty. Cases of COVID-19 were spreading and some communities were dealing with “shelter-in-place” orders from their Mayor. I also mentioned even with this chaos, our bankers were continuing to focus on taking care of their teammates and their customers. To say a lot has changed since then might be the understatement of the year! Let’s look back over the last 3-4 months.

On Sunday, March 16, we were celebrating our granddaughter’s second birthday when Governor McMaster issued an order closing all schools in our state. At around the same time, the Federal Reserve, in an off-cycle FOMC meeting, reduced the fed funds rate 100 basis points to the lowest level in history. Our then SCBA Chairman-elect, James Bennett, called me that night and suggested we have a call with all banking members to talk about these changes and get a feel for what everyone was doing. On the first call of about 20 we would later have, we asked members if any were considering modifying their lobby office hours. I think to most everyone’s surprise, Art Seaver volunteered that their bank was moving to a drive-through/appointment model by the end of the week. What was a surprise to many was the norm to all within a week. We all had to quickly adjust to this new environment and begin working remotely. That following Saturday morning I was on a call with Ted Pitts, the CEO of the South Carolina State Chamber of Commerce and Greg White, the South Carolina SBA Regional Director. We were discussing a bill that was gaining traction in Congress that would have an immediate and significant impact on the banking industry, their small business clients, and the SBA. So that our members could be better prepared for the anticipated activity, we worked with SBA and our community banks to get them approved as an SBA 7A lender. Around two thirds of our community banks had never participated with the SBA. On Friday, March 27th, President Trump signed into law the CARES Act and our world as we knew it changed again. Treasury issued the initial guidance and an early application form for PPP on March 31st. That Friday, April 3rd at 12:01 AM the SBA E-Trans system opened for the submission of applications and it immediately crashed. Although extremely frustrated (this might be the second most understatement of the year), our bankers persevered and began working in shifts 24/7 to help their small business customers get their PPP loan submitted for approval from the SBA.

Fred L. Green III, President & CEO SCBA

Less than two weeks later the entire allocation of PPP funds were exhausted and the SBA stopped accepting applications. Our bankers had thousands of customer applications that were not able to get through the system. However, Congress approved a second allocation which went live on April 27. Once again the E-Trans system crashed immediately. Our bankers, though, persevered again, began working 24/7 shifts, and eventually were able to take care of all their customers applying for a PPP loan. Let’s fast forward from there. In the latest update issued by SBA, South Carolina banks closed $5.7 Billion in PPP loans in a little over 90 days. Our bankers helped 63,000 small business customers survive which allowed them to continue to pay their employees. Even more impressive, is that these loans helped maintain and protect over 650,000 South Carolina jobs which represents over 25% of the entire workforce in our state. Earlier this week, I was honored to participate in a panel discussion with First Reliance, Congressman Tom Rice, and about 20 bank customers that were able to participate in the PPP program. Almost everyone said that without the program and without their bankers their business may not have survived. Many also said their businesses are now rebounding and some were even adding new employees. I have never been more proud to be a banker and never more proud of our industry. We moved mountains in days, dealt with tremendous uncertainty and risk, all in a leap of faith. We kept customers in business and they made payroll so that their employees could support their families. Although our staff at the SCBA weren’t on the front-lines like all of you, we tried our best to support your efforts. I felt like we were all in it together, and we really were. Bankers who compete fiercely were very generous in offering help and advice and sharing experiences with each other. We all became closer as a community by this experience. Over time, these last several months and everything we were able to accomplish will fade in everyone’s memory. We wanted to somehow memorialize this period for future bankers because, they too, will be called to help in future crises. We dedicate this edition of the Palmetto Banker to those that worked tirelessly to help their customers during these difficult times.

Thank you all for what you do. S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 • PALMETTO BANKER

MEET CHAIRMAN JELENA MCWILLIAMS Jelena McWilliams was sworn in as the 21st Chairman of the FDIC on June 5, 2018. She serves a six-year term on the FDIC Board of Directors, and is designated as Chairman for a term of five years. Ms. McWilliams was Executive Vice President, Chief Legal Officer, and Corporate Secretary for Fifth Third Bank in Cincinnati, Ohio. At Fifth Third Bank she served as a member of the executive management team and numerous bank committees including: Management Compliance, Enterprise Risk, Risk and Compliance, Operational Risk, Enterprise Marketing, and Regulatory Change.

FDIC Chairman McWilliams Visits With South Carolina Bankers On June 10, the SCBA members were able to hear from and interact with the FDIC Chairman, Jelena McWilliams on a special conference call. She discussed the health of the banking industry and the vital role we play in helping our customers during the pandemic. Although unable to meet with us in person because of the COVID-19 social distancing restrictions, Chairman McWilliams said she looks forward to visiting South Carolina in the future. 6

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Prior to joining Fifth Third Bank, Ms. McWilliams worked in the U.S. Senate for six years, most recently as Chief Counsel and Deputy Staff Director with the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, and previously as Assistant Chief Counsel with the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee. From 2007 to 2010, Ms. McWilliams served as an attorney at the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, where she drafted consumer protection regulations, reviewed and analyzed comment letters on regulatory proposals, and responded to consumer complaints. Before entering public service, she practiced corporate and securities law at Morrison & Foerster LLP in Palo Alto, California, and Hogan & Hartson LLP (now Hogan Lovells LLP) in Washington, D.C. In legal practice, Ms. McWilliams advised management and boards of directors on corporate governance, compliance, and reporting requirements under the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. She also represented publicly- and privately-held companies in mergers and acquisitions, securities offerings, strategic business ventures, venture capital investments, and general corporate matters. Ms. McWilliams graduated with highest honors from the University of California at Berkeley with a B.S. in political science, and earned her law degree from U.C. Berkeley School of Law.

Working Together During the Covid-19 crisis, we have witnessed first-hand the teamwork of the South Carolina banking community. We have seen competitors and partners alike share ideas, resolve common challenges, and demonstrate a willingness to help each other when we needed it the most. Thank you, bankers of South Carolina, for your camaraderie and commitment to our Industry; we are truly honored to be a part of such a dedicated banking community.

Peter Shand President PShand@BDCofSC.org 803.744.0305

Rob Evans Senior Vice President SBA Lending Officer REvans@BDCofSC.org 803.744.0308

Nat Green Senior Vice President SSBCI Lending Officer NGreen@BDCofSC.org 803.744.0309

Ted Crosson Vice President SBA Lending Officer TCrosson@BDCofSC.org 803.744.0312

A Leader in Small Business Lending

BDCofSC.org

C O R O N AV I R U S :

The Pandemic that changed life for all Americans proved our bankers are essential for all of our communities in South Carolina.

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We had a lot of folks that didn’t get through because we hit our capacity limitation, said Stephen Stone, president and CEO of Coastal States Bank. With a limited amount of funds and everybody trying to get it at once, it put institutions in a very difficult position.

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Stone said COASTAL STATES BANK, which has a presence on Hilton Head Island and in Bluffton, Savannah and the Atlanta metro area, was able to grant “north of $100 million” in loans to businesses during the hectic two-week period. 8

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Elephant’s Trunk owner Cathy Stone closed her shop for 18 days — a s tint that included their important Easter season — after Gov. Henry McMaster issued a stay-home order in late March. Stone reopened her store April 21, limiting customers to three at a time and stocking up on Clorox wipes, masks and gloves for employees. She said she has held onto all 10 of her regular employees while also paying rent and anticipating a pile of invoices that are due. With sales down now and limited for weeks to what she could do over the phone and by curbside pickup,

Stone said she has lost a lot of sleep contemplating the 34-year-old business’s future. Stone has been with her bank, TD Bank, since her first year in business when the bank was still called Carolina First. She consulted with other toy stores in the American S p e c i a l t y To y R e t a i l A s s o c i a t i o n and called her bank when she first heard about the PPP program. When TD was ready to take applications, she said, her banker called her back “right away.” “I was at the front of the line,” she said. S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 • PALMETTO BANKER

Door to Door Floors in Lexington is a locally-owned floor covering company that sells to commercial and residential customers across the Midlands. They have five employees and have been small business customers of TD Bank for 18 years. Prior to the PPP online application process going live, Erica Smith, Store Manager for the Corley Mill location of TD Bank, reached out to Door to Door Floors and many of her small business customers to provide them with the PPP application and a list of possible documents that might be required by SBA. Erica and her team wanted to ensure their small business customers would be prepared and a step head once the website portal went live. Erica was in constant communication with Paul Prince, president of Door to Door Floors, to ensure he had the most 10

current updates regarding the PPP process, the correct paperwork was in place and to help guide him through this difficult time. Erica was able to help Door to Door Floors secure a PPP loan during the first round, which was crucial to Paul protecting his team’s jobs. Erica was even willing to help one of Paul’s friends, who was not a customer of TD Bank, during this process. Erica reached out to the friend to provide guidance on what documents were needed to complete an application, as well as answer additional questions he had during the application portal process. “We believe that all of our customers – large and small – deserve our best customer service, and it is encouraging to know that our banker and bank share our values.” – Paul Prince, President Door to Door Floors, Inc.

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At Habitat for Humanity, their mission is to bring people together to build homes, communities and hope. When COVID-19 hit, their business as usual was turned upside down, like so many other companies. As a non-profit, they count on donations, fundraising, volunteers and their ReStore to help serve their families. With all of that shut down indefinitely, they questioned how they would survive. Stephen Soisson, Interim Executive Director for Habitat for Humanity of Horry County, met with Mark Smaizys at TD Bank, to discuss their options. Mark serves of the Board of Directors for Habitat and understands first hand the important role the organization plays in the community. With his professional approach and attention to detail, Mark immediately put Stephen’s mind at ease.

Mark not only provided Habitat with their options, but he also walked them through the entire process, making sure all of the required paperwork was in place. He continued to keep them updated throughout the processing phase and was able to deliver that special phone call – letting Stephen know their PPP loan had been approved! Habitat for Humanity of Horry County is back to work, and as they prepare the meet the upcoming challenges like so many others, they are grateful they have business challenges to look forward to. “Our staff, our board, our families, our loyal customers, our community, everyone combined, we cannot thank Mark enough for his personal attention and his tireless efforts in helping our mission to continue right here in Horry County.” – Stephen Soisson Interim Executive Director, Habitat for Humanity of Horry County

Josh Ridings, owner of Carpet One in Spartanburg, was looking to purchase his business in 2018. He met with John Verreault and Mallory Winter with TD Bank, and they understood his needs and guided him through the entire process. That same level of care and support was once again evidenced during the recent PPP loan process. Mallory, along with Relationship Manager Jim Rohrer, was able to ensure that Josh was clear about the application process and that he had every document in place prior to the online portal opening. Mallory and Jim made themselves available at ANY time to talk with Josh about his application — before he applied and even during the processing phase.

and running a small business is extremely challenging during these dif ficult times. Mallory and Jim’s help in securing the PPP loan gave him the peace of mind he needed, though. According to Josh, “The service I have received has been second-to-none, especially during the PPP process. I am super fortunate to have the relationship I have with you and TD bank. I can’t say thank you enough!” – Josh Ridings, Owner Carpet One Spartanburg

For Josh, raising a young family

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As of mid-May, we helped fund nearly $90 million to over 1,600 local businesses.

Bryan Lenertz, VP in Myrtle Beach getting one of the first PPP loan documents signed for dispursing.

Lobbies closed with walk up service since some of our offices didn’t have drive thrus.

Anderson Brothers Bank’s Journey through PPP Beginning mid-March, each morning key bank leaders met to monitor the crisis and discuss actions that would ensure our customers continued to experience the reliable ABB services they have come to expect. Our priorities focused on the health of our employees, customers and communities as well as maintaining critical areas of service such as ACH and wire processing, teller services, call center, etc. It was our goal to instill that this was a potential health issue, not a banking crisis and to minimize any financial impact on the bank. When the PPP program was signed early April, ABB’s leaders jumped at the chance to become a leader in helping keep our local businesses and their employees afloat. The Small Business Administration Paycheck Protection Plan was rolled out Friday, April 3. The old saying about keeping bankers hours was far from the truth

that weekend for a group of dedicated bankers we now call Team Rusty. They were committed to get as many PPP applications approved before funds ran out and were ready to begin as soon as SBA opened up the portal. As we, all know there was an overwhelming amount of banks doing the same thing, which quickly crashed the site. This did not phase this group of bankers as they kept watch throughout the day and into the late hours that Friday for any possible signs of access to get over 300 received applications approved as quickly as possible. In the early hours that Saturday morning word was received the site was back up and this team of magnificent seven (team Rusty) quickly assembled at around 7AM and worked throughout the day until around 11PM that evening. By Sunday evening, they had approval of 338 applications with around $34M.

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Over the next weeks, loan officers and employees from the front lines to back office departments across the bank were taking new applications, preparing packages, calling business owners to get documents signed and funds disbursed. This was not unnoticed by other business owners that were having issues with getting larger banks to call them back or approve their applications. Over the next few weeks, before funds were exhausted, ABB was able to process over 1,300 applications for over $80 million in loans. Meeting this high demand for community assistance boosted ABB across a momentous milestone of $1,000,000,000 in total assets. As we stood ready for the next release of PPP funds, the community outreach for help was astonishing. We had already submitted 1,548 applications and were continuing to take new ones for the anticipated new

Hemingway May 1, 2020 - 1st of the month at the Hemingway drive thru. We hear Mr. Neal Anderson was out directing traffic!

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Professional, tireless, swift, available, committed, are just a few words to describe Bryan Bo, VP at Anderson Brothers Bank. Thank you for getting my business funded with the SBA stimulus money so quickly.

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Johnny Floyd, VP in Mullins, getting some PPP closing documents ready for disbursing.

Emily Wallace making sure everything is clean and sanitized for the Mullins Main Street/Corp office.

funds released. When SBA opened up the portal for the next round on Monday April 27, everyone was prepared and eager to begin round two and by the end of the week another 247 applications were submitted to SBA for PPP funds. As stage one of PPP process, gathering applications and distributing funds to borrowers is slowing, we are preparing for stage two with applications for loan forgiveness from our PPP borrowers. As of Friday May 22, 2020, we have funded 1,552 PPP loans for nearly $87 million. As we did with the PPP loan applications, our team will develop a straightforward, comprehensive

One of our employees, Erika McCrackin’s children helping to put out the sidewalk signs.

forgiveness application process for our customers. The world is slowly re-opening and we are cautiously joining by reopening our lobbies o n We d n e s d a y M a y 2 0 . To accommodate extra precautions, extensive cleaning of all our lobbies, monitoring employee temperatures and daily disinfecting, lobbies will be open to a limited number of customers from 9:00 to 4:00. Drive thrus will maintain current hours from 8 : 3 0 a m t o 5 : 0 0 p m . We w i l l continue to monitor events closely and hopeful we can return to normal hours in the upcoming weeks.

Social distancing, Bryan Lenertz, VP in Myrtle Beach.

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Sneeze guards installation before lobbies begin opening up.

Our triumph and achievements could not have been as successful without all the employees, back of fice staf f and of ficers working together to achieve this accomplishment. The PPP has provided us with a challenge to excel and serve. We are grateful and humbled to have played an important role in a program so vital to our customers and communities we serve. Our mission is to create value for our employees, customers and communities. Mission accomplished…and continued.

The first weekend of round 1, Luke one of the Team Rusty group – Luke taking PPP application information

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A day after closing their PPP loan, Butch and Debbie Chavis of School Cuts Screening and Embroidery said, “My wife and I would have come through this COVID pandemic fine but we could not afford to pay the salaries of the 9 other employees we have. Keep in mind, these employees are like extended family to us and we care for them deeply. Sadly, we had cut their hours in half because there is not enough work to keep them working. This morning we had a staff meeting and I got to tell them, ‘Because of what CresCom Bank has done, you will be paid for 40 hours this week, next week and the next several weeks.” The staff cheered. I then charged them, “When you go to cash your check at CresCom this week, express your gratitude to the teller for what the bank did so you could have a paycheck.

Good Morning Ms. Bass, I just wanted to take a minute to express my appreciation to you again for your professionalism, and desire to help me with my business loan package. You guys at CresCom Bank are great. I will be moving some accounts over to you. Meanwhile if there is anything else that I can do to help you, let me know.

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Sincerely, Jesse Smith, Franchisee Liberty Tax Smith Insurance Agency, Inc. S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 • PALMETTO BANKER

Oneal Staples at Ameris bank with Jon Dukes, President, Nautical Boat Club of SC: Irmo, Lexington, & Mt. Pleasant

Nautical Boat Club in Mt. Pleasant, SC celebrated its twoyear anniversary in April of 2020. Without the help of Ameris Bank to obtain a PPP loan, we may have never made it to celebrate this milestone. As a startup business, cash flow is critical. My business was on track with our 2020 projections after the local boat show in January 2020. However, our sales would diminish to nothing over the next 60 days as the Covid19 restrictions were implemented. We needed short term help with cash flow to weather the initial stor m and maintain our employees so that we would be ready to go as soon as the restrictions began to lift. I have been working with Oneal Staples at Ameris bank for our borrowing needs for many, many years. He and his Ameris Bank team did everything they could to help me apply for the PPP loan quickly and efficiently so that I was funded as part of Phase One of the program. This timing was critical as it allowed us to keep all of our employees without a lapse in payroll. As a startup business, we couldn’t have done it without the help of Ameris Bank and the PPP program. 16

Darryl Frick, a partner with Steel Hands Brewing, poses with Marvin Robinson of Ameris Bank.

Steel Hands Brewing With the help from Ameris Bank and PPP we were able to bring back employees (22+) before we opened, to plan and facilitate the reopening – this got us a jump on other breweries. In addition, the PPP aid: • Helped in fully staffing up upon reopening (even when possibly not required) to better serve customers and get the staff reacclimated to working again • rent relief enabled us to buy raw materials and replenish old beer in the market due to on premise closings • made the taproom loses more manageable • enabled us to hire new folks

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$2.5 million in PPP loans approved for 47 businesses through Arthur State Bank April 15, 2020 | The Union Times Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans totalling more than $2.5 million have been approved for local businesses through Arthur State Bank. In a statement released this (Wednesday) afternoon, Arthur State Bank Chairman and President Carlisle Oxner III said that as of this morning “we have gotten 47 loans by SBA (Small Business Administration) which total $2,519,000 in Union County.” The loans approved for businesses in Union County amount to approximately 10 percent of the loans approved through Arthur State Bank in the communities it serves. “Bankwide, we have over $20 million approved so far,” Oxner said. In addition to its main branch on Main Street in downtown Union

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and its other branches in the Union area, Arthur State Bank has branches in Columbia, Rock Hill, Spartanburg, Woodruff, Greenville, Lexington, Clinton, and Chesnee.

“ We ’ r e a l s o d o i n g t o n s o f mortgage refinancings so our loan officers right now are pretty overwhelmed but they are getting it done and we are very proud of them.”

Oxner, in an interview with The Union T imes, said that Arthur State’s loan officers have been steadily working, including working overtime, processing the loan applications that have been coming in since the beginning of April.

The PPP is part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act signed into law on March 27 by President Donald Trump. The CARES Act is a nearly $2.2 trillion aid package to fight the COVID-19 Pandemic and includes approximately $349 billion for the PPP which provides payroll assistance for America’s nearly 30 million small businesses, and select nonprofits, in the form of 100% guaranteed loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

“We got our first application on April 1,” Oxner said. “We had to wait a week for guidelines as they kept changing, but within a week it all came together. For a government program like this to come together in a week’s time is pretty quick. “Our loan officers worked weekends and some even worked on Easter Sunday to get those loans approved,” he said.

Since becoming law, community banks like Arthur State Bank have been the main PPP lenders to small businesses across the United States.

I am crying! These kids think I am crazy. LOL. Thank you all for all the work that I know went into making this happen. — Darla Carroll, Little Miracles Montessori West

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Glitches, technical issues, long hours, weekend work hit bankers as they navigate payroll protection program A federal loan program for small businesses thrust bankers across South Carolina in a race against the clock as thousands upon thousands of applications flooded desks and never let up. In recent weeks, these bankers encountered website glitches, technical issues, and long hours with little sleep as they scrambled to catch up on the backlog in time. The state’s initial $3.8 billion share of the payroll protection program ultimately helped 22,933 businesses across the Palmetto State pay staff and keep the lights on during the ongoing COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. But banks were unable to whittle down the application stack before the pot of money ran dry on the evening of April 16, not even two weeks after the program began. As a result, about 4,000 South Carolina small businesses that sought a combined total of $500 million in assistance did not benefit from the first batch of funding. These owners will have to hold out hope that they can score help from the next wave of federal relief, which has already been approved by the House and Senate. Leaders in the state banking industry say they’ll be the top priority. “I’m pretty confident the banks are gearing up to start processing

those first,” said Fred Green, President of the South Carolina Bankers Association. “If the (U.S. Small Business Alliance) doesn’t change the documents or requirements, the banks will immediately begin processing those.” The number of not-yet-processed PPP loan applications came out of a survey conducted recently by the Bankers Association, which represents 70 banks throughout the state. The list includes national chains with a footprint in S.C., small local finance fir ms, and 45 banks headquartered in the state. These workers did all they could to help every business that applied, Green said. “We had teams working 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from the third of April until the money ran out,” he said. “I’ve been in constant contact with hundreds of them. Some have been working 12-14 hour days trying to get as many applications done as possible. They were getting home at 2 in the morning, getting a few hours of sleep and going in and starting all over again.” It didn’t help that the roll-out of the federal loan program was plagued by technical and technological issues at the onset. The website for the U.S. Small Business Alliance couldn’t handle the traffic and would glitch often, Green said. The federal agency also made last minute changes to the paperwork

and requirements, even after thousands of applications had already started pouring in. The problems slowed the process considerably right out of the gate. On that first day, it took some banks, statewide, more than 12 hours to get a single application processed correctly and over to the SBA, Green recalled. Still, bankers stuck with it. The long hours they put in to process these applications weren’t requirements imposed by bank management, Green said. Instead, it was an act of determination and desperation by bankers to help as many small businesses as possible at a time when many owners are laying off employees and struggling to pay bills. Many of these bankers have been working with these business owners for years. They watched them start. Watched them grow as the economy picked up following the Great Recession. Now, they refuse to sit back and watch idly as they hurt. “I’m proud of these bankers,” Green said. “The bankers said: ’These are my customers and I want to try my best to help them.” Of the loan recipients nationally, the majority of the businesses, 74%, received less than $150,000. The average loan size: $206,000. Several businesses across the nation, 67,216, received more than $1 million in federal assistance. Of that number, 4,412

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businesses received more than $5 million.

collected more than 390,000 from small business clients.

An Associated Press investigation found that at least 94 companies t h a t d i s c l o s e d re c e i v i n g a i d since the program opened April 3 were publicly traded, some with thousands of employees and market values well over $100 million.

“Our bankers have never stopped,” Molina said in a phone interview. “Everyday they are working night and day, every weekend. We are doing everything we can to support our small businesses.”

Nine of the loans were for the maximum $10 million possible, including one to a Califor nia software company that settled a Securities and Exchange Commission investigation late last year into accounting errors that overstated its revenue. WHERE’S THE MONEY? Many business owners The HeraldJournal surveyed in downtown Spartanburg Wednesday hadn’t received a dime, despite applying weeks ago. Other expressed confusion over the paperwork. In an interview last week, Gregg White, director of the U.S. Small Business Association’s South Carolina District, said that any business owner with questions about their application or loan status need to contact their bank. To gain more insight into the issue, The Herald-Journal contacted several banks. One of the nation’s largest, Bank of America, which has 2,300 branches, received more than 10,000 loan applications every hour when the money from the Payroll Protection Program first became available on April 3, according to spokeswoman Carla Molina. By Wednesday, the Charlottebased bank company had

Truist Financial Corp., a company with more than 2,049 branches nationwide that earned its new name after BB&T merged with SunTrust last year, forwarded a statement that CEO Kelly King sent out to customers. “Small business owners, in p a r t i c u l a r, a r e f a c i n g h a r d choices, and there are no easy solutions,” the message on the company’s website reads. “You have poured your hearts and souls into building your businesses, and the sheer volume of requests we’ve received tells us there are millions of businesses that still genuinely need support. Please know we’re taking extraordinary steps to help you navigate this unprecedented crisis.”

note that not all of these workers are qualified to handle small business loans like these. But the ones that are, also had to continue doing other aspects of their job in addition to whittling down the ever-growing stack of applications. The bank’s lobbies have also been closed due to the coronavirus, so communicating with small business owners about the paperwork to ensure everything was filled out correctly had to be done via telephone calls. Sometimes more than one. “To say it’s been a challenge would be an understatement,” said Arthur State Bank CEO Danny Cook. “It was a mountain to climb. It was a lot to do in a very short amount of time.” He also mentioned some of the “frustrating” problems that plagued the program early on. After the system went live April 3, and after applications began pouring in, the SBA made tweaks to the form that had to be submitted.

He said that the bank received 100,000 applications in the first 48 hours once the program opened. “Due to the overwhelming demand and unprecedented number of loan applications we’ve received, there remain many clients we haven’t been able to help from the first round of PPP funding,” Kelly wrote.

Cook said Arthur State Bank wound up securing loans for 276 small businesses across the Upstate and Columbia.

This loan posed a challenge to small banks. Arthur State Bank has 20 locations throughout South Carolina, most of which can be found in the Upstate.

They are determined to help as many as they can, even if it means 14-hour workdays, little sleep, and poring over applications over the weekend.

While they have fewer clients than the national chains, they also have much fewer employees, 176. It’s important to

“I think it will go a lot smoother next time,” Cook said. “we are going to do the very best we can to meet the needs of customers.”

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Now that the kinks have hopefully been untangled, and now that his staff is familiar with the process, Cook said bankers stand ready for round two.

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Bryan McIntyre, Manager of Business Banking, First Citizens Bank, Columbia (on left) with Broad River Paint and Body owner, Scott Upton (right)

...“Thank God for First Citizens Bank!” Scott was amazed that Bryan, their Business Banker, reached directly out to them regarding the SBA process and that we (First Citizens Bank) would bend over backwards to get them through that process to the point they didn’t have to do much at all. He continued to praise Bryan and how helpful he was in completing the application, getting it through underwriting, and getting them the funds within a few days. He mentioned knowing of other body shops that use other financial institutions and have not heard a word from their bankers to try and help them. He indicated many of them are laying off workers or closing their doors because the work is scarce and the SBA funds are gone. Scott said because of Bryan and First Citizens Bank, they are going to be able to keep their doors open and pay their employees, which means everything to their business and employees’ families. I thanked him for sharing that experience and asked him to spread the word and let us know if there was anything else we could do for them. — Stephen Z. Hearne, Vice President, Senior Physical Security Consultant Corporate Security, First Citizens Bank

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May 12, 2020 Dear Fred, As South Carolina President, I would like to take a moment to provide you with an update on how Bank of America is helping our clients, our teammates and our communities. In particular, I wanted to provide you with the latest on our support of small businesses in our state through the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). As of Friday, May 8, we have received SBA approval for loans to more than 294,000 small businesses for more than $26 billion in relief under the program. In South Carolina, we have funded 3,540 loans totaling $251.2 million. Bank of America was the first major financial services institution to begin executing on the PPP on April 3, and continues to take and process applications through the program. According to SBA data for phase 2 of the program, Bank of America is the number one PPP lender. Of our SBA applications to date, • 98% are for companies with fewer than 100 employees. • 80% are for companies with fewer than 10 employees. • 95% are for less than $350,000. • 83% are for less than $100,000. • 23% are from low-to-moderate income (LMI) neighborhoods. I also want to reinforce that while no fees related to the PPP have been received from the SBA, net proceeds related to PPP fees will be dedicated to support small businesses and the communities and nonprofits we serve. In addition to lending through PPP, we continue to provide support to clients, communities and our own teammates, including 1,500 right here in our state. We are working closely with our clients and local leaders on building the path forward, consistent with our long-term commitment to the success of our state as well as the well-being of all who live and work here. Thank you for your strong partnership to address any needs in South Carolina. Best regards,

Kim Kim A. Wilkerson, Managing Director President, South Carolina South Carolina Market Executive

“

I am proud to say that Bank of America is open for business to serve all who rely on us, working hard, providing employment for more individuals inside our company and inside our local communities – and maintaining a singular focus on how we can and will help us all move forward in this critical time. Across our state, we must all continue to care for and support each other, share information, tools and resources so we can move forward.

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PPP Teams/Manning/June 2020: Laci Thompson, Renee Ward, JT Duke, Will Buyck, Barry Ham, Kendall Stewart

PPP Teams/Manning/June 2020: Will Buyck, JT Duke

PPP Teams/Sumter/June 2020: Chris Lee, Josh McGregor, Stephen Williamson

PPP Teams/Manning/June 2020: Kendall Stewart, Laci Thompson, Renee Ward

PPP Teams/Sumter/June 2020: Chris Lee, Stephen Williamson, Josh McGregor

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First loan closed. To Lorretta Swartzentruber, owner of Swartzentruber Bakery.

—Andy Timmerman President & CEO Abbeville First Bank

Note

f r o m a c u s t o m e r t h at

Oconee Federal

wa s a b l e t o h e l p w i t h t h e i r

PPP

loan:

“I just wanted to write you and thank you for your assistance with the ppp loan that we received. This loan did more than help us financially get through the covid 19 pandemic. It gave me peace of mind and security knowing my employees were going to get paid. It lifted a huge weight from us all knowing we were going to be ok. As a small business owner in these types of crisis, having a bank and a banker that are more like neighbors is a huge relief. Thank you and your team for helping us through all of this!!” Email

from a customer of

D e d i c at e d C o mm u n i t y B a n k :

Hey Jim. I just want to thank you again for your help. You truly showed me the value of local banking relationships. You have my commitment that I will not forget you stepping up. I’ll stand by for next steps and to get your people whatever they need. Mike 28

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Our top priority has been safety of customers and employees. The bank has told employees to work remotely if they are able, but banking is an essential business and Beacon remains open to clients who need access to financial services. Heading into this, the banking industry really is well-positioned to help. As for Beacon ... we just want people to know that we’re here to help the community, help our customers. Our customers that are impacted by this, we want them to know we will work with them and help them get through.

”

– Brooks Melton President and CEO Beacon Community Bank S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 • PALMETTO BANKER

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When Gov. Henry McMaster announced that restaurants had to close dine-in restaurant service on March 18, Beacon Drive-In owner/operator Steve Duncan knew he was in unchartered territory. The Beacon, a Spartanburg landmark known for its chili cheese a plenty, mounds of onion rings and world famous sweet tea, opened in 1946 and many of its 53 employees have been there 25 to 40 years. The possibility of having to layoff dedicated staff … men and women whom Duncan called irreplaceable was causing sleepless nights. “At the Beacon we have specialists, it’s not like a restaurant where someone slaps on a headset and stands at the drive-thru, our employees are e x p e r i e n c e d . We c o u l d n o t afford to lose them,” Duncan said. “But more than that, I didn’t want anyone to lose their job, their family’s income.” When Duncan learned about the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program,

he knew he had to act fast. And he was thankful he banked at Carolina Alliance Bank, a community bank, where staff knew him and understood his business. “At Carolina Alliance, they know me and helped me,” Duncan said. “I don’t have a finance department or a legal department, it’s all me, and they took the time to help me through the process. They were even able to pull information from previous transactions. I could not have done it without them.” Coleman Edmunds, Carolina Alliance Bank Senior Vice President, Retail Banking Executive, knew how important the PPP was for Duncan. And for the overall Spartanburg community as the more people who are able to stay gainfully employed, the better for all. “You just didn’t want to let them, or anyone, down,” Edmunds said. “This meant a lot to Steve and I wanted to make sure that his SBA PPP funds were secured so that this Spartanburg landmark

can continue on for generations to come. “This was the same level of commitment that we made for many of our other customers in this same situation.” The Beacon has continued to stay open, and while they have seen sales dip they have been able to operate as normal as you can, during a pandemic. Duncan is still having some sleepless nights but is reassured that his staff is intact and working. “I had a responsibility to Carolina Alliance and my staff to try to get a PPP loan,” Duncan said. “I am just grateful that I had a relationship with a community bank that understood our obligation to employees, and to maintain our finances. “Coleman, and everyone at Carolina Alliance, treated me like a business partner and not like a business person. Without them, I am convinced that I would not have gotten a PPP and I would have had to layoff staff. I’d be in very different situation today.”

Carolina Alliance Bank, a Division of Park National Bank, is a community bank with seven locations in Upstate South Carolina and Western North Carolina.

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Paul Himmelsbach, Grand Strand Business Owner Justin Lee, CCNB

Laurence, I am taking a moment away from dealing with the impact of the Coronavirus to pay the utmost compliment to one of your employees. Being a principle and partner in a number of Grand Strand businesses, Himmelsbach Communications, Shaftesbury Glen, Benitos Brick Oven, & LHWH, I was at my wits end to how we were going to deal with the impact of the Coronavirus shutdown. My first contact was with Justin Lee as he has been my go to guy as related to my businesses. From that moment on he was honest, reassuring and most of all one of the best communicators I have encountered in my 45 years of doing business here on the Grand Strand. He navigated us day by day through the complicated PPP process and as many other companies throughout America are still waiting for relief we are fully funded across the board. Justin is a credit to CCNB and it makes me so very glad to be a client and shareholder in CCNB. All the best & stay safe, Paul Himmelsbach 34

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Robert P. Hucks II, CCNB

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Thank you, Rhonda, Jarred, and Donna for your tireless efforts to assist us and all of the other small businesses in our area. Your community service is second to none!!! Maybe fits the bank’s name!!!!!

—Joey Werner, Owner Partner Palmetto Air Solutions LLC

During this time when businesses have been required to be shut down, Community First has gone above and beyond the service you will find from any other bank. Not only were they fast to respond to emails, but I got multiple calls from the CEO of the bank to help out. That is service you will not find from any other bank! With the government shutdowns and everything else that has happened this year, banks are getting slammed. You would never guess that working with Community First Bank. Every email and phone call I had with them was very positive. Richard was extremely pleasant on the phone and made sure everything was taken care of with me. Coming from a small business owner, you can rest assured that Community First isn’t only worried about their large account holders but they also have the small business owners and EVERY customer in mind. Community First provided me with the best customer service from a bank I have yet to experience. Thanks Richard Burleson, Carol Wilson, Katie Melton, and many others!!! —Travis Kreuzberger / Facebook Post, May 7, 2020

“

Community First Team: Thank you so much!!! I am sorry I missed your call. I have been outside cutting grass at my center. Since we closed I had to suspend certain services and lawn maintence was not essential. After spending the last hour pushing a mower I am re-thinking that decision :) I have really been worried that I would not be able to re-open my childcare center, but now have hope again. I can not thank you enough! I look forward to hearing from my local branch soon to get the needed paperwork completed. Have a great day and stay safe and healthy, Donna Collins, Owner/Director Homestead Academy childcare center

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COUNTYBANK APPROVES MORE THAN $60 MILLION IN PAYROLL PROTECTION PROGRAM LOANS

Greenwood, S.C. — Countybank has taken a significant leadership role in helping Upstate businesses deal with the financial implications of the COVID-19 crisis by approving more than $60 million in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans for a total of more than 600 loans processed, supporting businesses in more than 25 industries. The bank has uniquely supported businesses of all sizes, even with loans as small as $750. Countybank’s goal has been to process loans as quickly as possible so local businesses and franchises can continue conducting business during the financial turns of COVID-19.

“As a community bank, we were able to efficiently serve and support our business customers and get them the funding they need through the PPP during COVID-19,” said R. Thor nwell Dunlap III, President and CEO of Countybank. “By being proactive and committing more than 20 percent of our workforce to this effort, we are fulfilling our mission to meet the needs of our customers and communities.” “We are proud to be part of a loan funding opportunity that helps our local business customers receive the financial support they need, and we recognize the importance of PPP in regard to keeping businesses afloat during

these difficult times,” said Ken Harper, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Countybank. “We have always said Countybank puts people first, and this was a dramatic way for us to put our company values to work when our customers needed us the most.” Countybank began reaching out to customers before PPP applications opened and worked with small businesses directly to submit applications on their behalf, resulting in a smooth and highly successful process during times of economic uncertainty.

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I am thankful and blessed to have such a wonderful resource as Countybank at my fingertips. Not only did they help me navigate the PPP funding pretty easily, but they actually got me funded allowing me to bring back my furloughed workers – and they are so happy to be back. I don’t know how they did it so quickly, but I will assume it took a lot of hard work and determination. A sincere thank you to all that helped.

”

—Donna Adams, Countybank customer and Owner of Allegra

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Brad Leviner, First Bank, Branch Manager, Cheraw; Jeff Faulkner, Owner, PeeDee Outfitters; John S. Long, Regional Executive, First Bank, Cheraw

When the Coronavirus first appeared, we were extremely concerned for our business. We had to close for several weeks in April but customers had already begun to stay home before that. When PPP funding was announced, we contacted John Long at First Bank and he assured us he would let us know when and what we needed to do. He did exactly that. With the help of John and Brad Leviner we were able to receive much needed funding very quickly. This dedication to service is evidenced in all aspects of business we conduct at First Bank, Cheraw. With stores in Cheraw, SC, Rockingham, NC, and Albemarle, NC, First Bank is a perfect fit for our company. They have always demonstrated the same outstanding service in all locations and gone above and beyond to meet all our banking needs. WE LOVE FIRST BANK! – Jeff Faulkner, Pee Dee Outfitters

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After we were able to help them receive PPP loan funding, the UW began holding forums for partner agencies in the Augusta area that addressed such items as fundraising, operational support and meeting the immediate needs of our community. Within that framework, they began to discover agencies that have struggled to get PPP applications going. After sharing their experience obtaining PPP funding through First Community Bank, these underserved businesses came to us for help. So far, we have helped the Family Counseling Center of the CSRA, a nonprofit mental health agency located in Martinez, Georgia, and Senior Citizens Council of the CSRA, a nonprofit that works to keep seniors active and engaged in the community through a variety of services and activities. Without the United Way’s program and First Community’s ability to serve the smallest businesses in our community, these businesses would have had to close their doors and not be able to continue their service to the community.

The PPP loan process was so fast with First Community Bank! I cannot thank them enough for getting our paperwork done so quickly. This has been a refreshing experience when these days incompetence/apathy seems to run rampant in so many facets of our society. Your institution is really on the ball. from: Spotts Tractor in Prosperity, SC

•

Jason Barrs, owner, applied and was approved for PPP loan funding through Kabbage, but Kabbage put an incorrect loan amount into the system so that Mr. Barrs would only receive 10% of his approved amount, not even enough to cover one month of his payroll expenses.

•

After discovering Kabbage’s error, Mr. Barrs reached out to his banker, Alan George to ask for help. Alan helped him reach out to Senator Lindsay Graham’s office for help. The result was that his Kabbage application was nullified with the SBA and we, First Community Bank were able to process a PPP app for him that resulted in a PPP loan funded in the amount his original request.

• He thanked us for saving his business, and said he would have never thought about calling the senator’s office for help.

After working with First Community to receive PPP funding, Hollow Creek was able to stay open and answer the governor’s call to use their facilities to make hand sanitizer to distribute across the state. The Hollow Creek team worked 14-hour days for two weeks to produce and deliver more than 1,374 gallons of hand sanitizer. And they “would do it again in a heartbeat if it means we can serve our state and serve our community.” S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 • PALMETTO BANKER

Because of the support we received through the Payroll Protection Plan, The Jessye Norman School of The Arts was able to continue our mission of providing free art classes to our community. We were able to remove some of the economic uncertainty faced by our 22 employees at the height of the Covid-19 crisis. We were able to quickly shift our focus from providing on-site and in-person classes to live streaming classes, recorded lessons, private music lessons through skype and face-time, as well as live, online homework support. (We survey parents and students and support any technology gaps.) While the process was not without pain, our staff and faculty adapted quickly, developed new tools, and new confidence. Since going online, our reach has increased, and our partnerships continue to expand. We are offering senior classes and support, continuing to commission work for local artists, and we’re working with other organizations to ensure that the arts continue to be a source of creativity, inspiration, and comfort as we all find our way forward.

• Streaming Classes daily through facebook • Online Classes recorded on facebook and youtube • Staff and Faculty Economic Security for 22 staff and faculty • Senior Classes and Support for technology, wellness, and art • Artist Support by commissioning performance and visual art • Working with a Consortium of arts organizations to support gig artists through grant relief Without PPP, and without the support of First Community Bank, we almost certainly would have faced staffing furloughs. It gave us the cushion we needed to keep things going. We tried applying for the PPP loan through two other large banks and were unsuccessful in even completing the application. We were finally successful because we had a local relationship with our local banker. James walked us through the process every step of the way, and continues to stay engaged to ensure that we follow through on loan forgiveness. We could not have done it without him. Thanks for supporting our community, and thanks for supporting our arts and education community.

– Gary M. Dennis, Executive Director, The Jessye Norman School of The Arts

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“

I can’t imagine how busy you must have been dealing with very stressed and worried clients whom I am sure weren’t always friendly. Yet you always treated me like I was your only customer. I can honestly say it has been one of the best customer service experiences I’ve had in my 20+ years of small business operations.

— KEN FINLEY, FINLEY PHYSICAL THERAPY & SPORTS TRAINING

The help/effort rendered by Jill esp at this opportune moment is indeed an excellent projection of your Bank’s motto of helping the small business in the hours of need. Just wanted to take this moment and thank one and all at this location especially Jill for having worked on my application day and night.

— RUKMANI, 7-ELEVEN FRANCHISEE

Across my 54-year career I’ve never seen a bank be more proactive and responsive. Jennifer and the team at First Horizon called me personally when this issue was coming out of the White House and the next morning all the forms were in my controller’s office. The loan they helped us secure is not only saving our business, but it’s allowing me to continue to keep my employees on payroll.

— BILL HALL

Since I became an executive of CBX Global, I had to deal with a long list of challenges from Hurricanes, earthquakes, market challenges, trade war, and now a pandemic. I feel proud to be surrounded by one of the best teams in the whole industry, Partners like you, and excellent customers (keep growing!).

— JOSELIN RAMOS, CBX GLOBAL

The Atlanta Branch Rainbow Push Coalition Board has asked that I communicate to our members of the organization about my process and level of service received during my PPP Loan. I will most definitely tell them about my First Horizon experience and I will recommend people open accounts if there is a First Horizon in their state. I just wanted to say thank you ROBIN for helping me keep my business afloat.

— KENNETH J. HARPER JR., HARPCO BENEFIT ALLIANCE

”

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Neil Oliver, Relationship Banker, delivering a PPP check to Tony Morelli, CEO of Morelli Heating and Air Conditioning.

Tom Ewart delivering Dr. Griffin’s PPP loan check to him.

Paul Saunders delivering a PPP check to Harry Kanos, Owner of Starfire Grill restaurant.

Customers Say It Best! First Reliance Bank has saved over 17,000 jobs by processing over 661 PPP loans to businesses totaling $57 million dollars and average loan size of $38,000. Our team worked quickly by partnering with fintech companies who provided platforms to make it easy for our customers and the bank to process the applications. To n y M o r e l l i , C E O o f M o r e l l i Heating and Air Conditioning located in North Charleston received his funding a few weeks ago. Tony said, “I want to extend my great appreciation on how your team, took care of me with the SBA PPP loan process. Your care and professionalism in communicating with me on the process was extraordinary. Your team guided me throughout the changing and confusing process as SBA rolled out pertinent information to us all. I feel, without your team’s help, I wouldn’t have been able to secure the loan. The value you placed with our long business relationship and in 44

helping me with this process is the main reason why I bank with First Reliance and why I will continue to put my trust and banking needs solely with you. Again my sincere thanks for a job well done.” Another bank customer, Dr. Joe Griffin, DMD’s office was not able to be open other than for emergencies for dental patients. “The PPP loan really helped during the weeks we were closed and allowed us to keep our employees paid during this time. I really don’t know what we would’ve done without it. We’re ready to get back to helping our dental patients and happy to be back in business.” Tom Ewart, Florence Market President helped Dr. Griffin through the application process and the questions he had. “Dr. Griffin has been a long time customer of the bank. We wanted to help him and all our customers through these uncertain times. That’s what we’re here for,” said Tom Ewart.

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Pamela Rhoads, VP, Customer Experience First Reliance Bank

Long-time customer Harry Kanos, Owner of Starfire Grill restaurant worked with Paul Saunders to process his PPP loan. “We were able to do business, and keep all our staff employed, but we had to do it a different way when we couldn’t serve customers in the restaurant. We still were down catering services as other businesses that were closed weren’t ordering in and we served about half our nor mal volume through take out services,” said Harry. “We appreciate our Relationship Banker, Paul Saunders help in answering all our questions and helping us get our PPP loan. We’ve had this restaurant a long time and have developed relationships with so many of our patrons. This is a business we built over many years. We’re just happy to be opening back up even with social distancing restrictions. I want to thank First Reliance Bank for supporting us through this. I knew I could trust them to help us.”

Royal Auto: long time hard working customers of Optus Bank had to pause their auto repair business due to COVID-19. Optus Bank provided them with funds to restart and reopen the business.

Optus Bank had the privilege of serving Kadenia Williams-Javis, MBA, RTRP, Proprietor and CFO, Javis Financial Services, LLC, Columbia with credit and banking services to help grow her successful Javis Financial Services business into a new facility. Ms. Javis shares the financial empowerment mission of Optus Bank and lives it by helping her clients live better financial lives.

Chesnut Cottage: Successful entrepreneur Mary Sparrow decided to revive an iconic business in Columbia. Optus Bank and the City of Columbia partnered to provide her with financing. When COVID-19 vaporized her revenues, Optus Bank stepped in with PPP loan.

I want to thank the hardworking team at Optus Bank for their commitment to #SmallBusiness Anchor Shred & Recycle Company LLC—we have received funding from #COVID19 #SBAPPP Dominik Mjartan, President, truly “walks the walk.”

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“

HomeTrust Banker Napping After Long Days and Nights

HomeTrust Bankers in masks working during COVID and PPP Dana Stonestreet, President & CEO, in mask while working during PPP rush

Mr. Stonestreet, The staff of Life Directions wishes to thank you for taking time to help us with our PPP loan. By 3:30 today, they had called and informed what we needed to do and fixed the loan papers to sign and we had a confirmation by 4:00 PM. I have always appreciated HomeTrust Bank as my banker and I keep all of my funds and other accounts with you ... this is one of the reasons why. Have a great weekend and thanks again. CustomerDickens, Financial Officer

”

At HOMETRUST, we made all the operational pivots required to service our customers but our most impactful decision was to directly contact individual customers to see what assistance they need. Our amazing retail employees made approximately 30,000 outbound calls, resulting in more than 20,000 valuable conversations with our customers. Additionally, we mailed at least 2,500 personal, hand-written notes to customers. Our direct contact helped many customers learn to manage their finances digitally. We issued over 1,800 debit cards and enrolled over 1,000 customers in mobile banking as part of our customer contact initiative. Our goal is to make sure our customers feel supported and helped despite these trying times. During a call with a customer in Greenville, we discovered that his wife had fallen and injured her foot. The branch staff signed a “Get Well” card with a handwritten note to let her know the HomeTrust team was thinking of her. We simply wanted to provide that extra support for someone who had even more reason to feel frustrated during a time when so many people already feel isolated. Her husband came to the branch to thank the staff. Standing beside our customers in both good and bad times is what we do. It’s the little touches – like phone calls to customers who come to the bank every week to get out of the house from staff they already know – that sets HomeTrust apart in good times and bad.

— Dana Stonestreet, Chairman, President and CEO, HomeTrust Bank

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From operations to the front lines, these Carolina Bank employees were vital in processing 500 PPP loans for $57 Million.

Tegy Matthews (left), with Emily Nance

Charlie Abbott with Lauren Stafford

“

I got my PPP Loan approved by the SBA through Palmetto State Bank and Jose Vergara. PSB received my completed app and my supporting records today and had an SBA approval number within 2-3 hours.

”

Thanks again Jose...I appreciate all of the help today getting it done and I hope that all of our LBS families who this ultimately benefits will look at PSB (Palmetto State Bank) for their banking needs.

“

– J. Willis from The Little Brown School

To: Keith Stansell, Financial Advisor

Keith, Your support of our CARES PPP Application shows us to continue using our creativity and design skills which lead to great products such as this Charcuterie Board. Seventy of us thank you and your support staff at Pinnacle for being our partner during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

”

– James C. Meadors, Owner, Meadors Inc., Charleston, SC

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My banker Bobby Warrick and the kind folks at ServisFirst Bank were truly amazing at helping me and my business navigate the SBA PPP Loan Process and its many ongoing changes. My retail store had been closed for several weeks already, and he made me and my employees a priority, getting my most important asset, my employees, back on their feet and funded with the payroll that was so desperately needed. Countless reassurance phone calls from Bobby and Tom Trouche that they had my back and would take care of me helped me to focus on other pressing concerns. Also, many extra man hours on Bobby’s part becoming educated and working to assure the application was imputed into the system properly was a thankless act. “When is the last time your banker called you at 9:00 pm working on your behalf?”

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My sincere appreciation to Bobby Warrick and the entire team at ServisFirst Bank. Once again “They Earned My Business” in a very difficult time!

– Chip Ervin, Owner/Operator Grady Ervin & Company Charleston, SC

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My husband and I have owned our small retail business for 31 years. We have 17 employees that depend on each and every decision we make to earn their living and feed their families. When the pandemic hit, our business, as well as many, many others, took a deep hit with sales plunging 70%. Our employees were not getting the hours nor commissions, they need to make a living. Our Governor issued Stay at Home orders for our state which shuttered our doors for a month. To say we were worried is an understatement. What would happen to our employees? Our business? Our family? When the Paycheck Protection Program was first announced we gathered our documents and applied the very first day applications were accepted through the online portal of our bank. Because our bank was one of the big banks, we had no one to talk to able to handle our needs, or track our application. The first round of PPP funding came and went without funding for our application. Our stores were shuttered, our employees were on unemployment, and we were worried we would not receive funding if, and when, the second round of funding was approved by Congress. After trying unsuccessfully to find a status of our application with our big bank, I remembered speaking with Phil Wahl who was recommended to me by one of our landlords. I connected with Phil again, he accepted our application, and was able to get us approved the very first day of the 2nd round, with funding shortly thereafter. These funds were a lifesaver, not only for our employees, but for our business in general! They gave us the bridge we so desperately needed to pay our employees, while slowly re opening our retail locations.

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It took another week or two to hear from our big bank via email. I thanked them, and told them our needs were met with a local community bank! Community banks support the community in which they are located. We will be forever grateful to Security Federal for helping us through such an unprecedented time.

– Lynn Garrick, Just Beds, Inc. Aiken and North Augusta, SC and Augusta, Evans and Grovetown, GA

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Security Federal Bank called and asked if I was interested in applying for a PPP loan. At the time, I was banking at another financial institution, but I needed assistance with a PPP loan. The process of completing the application and receiving approval was smooth and organized. Staff members at Security Federal were knowledgeable, professional and very helpful and I am thankful and grateful for their support. In addition, I look forward to furthering our banking relationship.

– Melissa Oden, CEO

The Place at Shadow Oaks and The Place at Pepper Hill, Aiken

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Without the help of Security Federal Bank, my restaurants may not still be open. Between Security Federal’s help with the PPP loan, and the incredible support of the community, we have been able to survive.

– Bhavna Patel, Scholtzsky’s, Lexington

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We are so thankful for Security Federal Bank being willing to help our small business submit the loan request for the PPP in such a timely manner. It was a life line that has kept our business above water, enabled us to keep our staff continuously working, and help us get back on our feet during the COVID-19 outbreak. We are so thankful to now be a customer of a local bank — and thankful we are now a customer who has a face and a name to our bank!

– Jenny Elliott, Shoppe3130 North Augusta

” An interview on Fox Business about Security Federal Bank helping Bill Dukes and the Blue Marlin in Columbia.

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South Atlantic Bank is proud to have processed more than 700 PPP loans for our customers. It’s been our privilege to help support their businesses and employees. Mary Jo Rogers, executive vice president and chief lending officer, said after closing a PPP loan for a local business owner, “Mark Saunders was my first customer and I was his first banker when we were both starting out. Twenty-nine years later, the relationship is still going strong!”

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This has been a mighty tough month for all of us, and while most are struggling with not enough work, I wanted to give a shout-out to David Rhodes, Denise Brown and the whole crew at South Atlantic Bank for doing just the opposite. Having a 350-billion-dollar stimulus program dropped in your lap with less than a week to prepare isn’t exactly business as usual, and they (along with everyone else in the banking community) really stepped up to the plate to help the rest of us. Thank you, and we’ll remember it! – Ryan Swaim, Dunes Realty

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From the first day I became a client at South Atlantic Bank it struck me how much they really cared. This is especially true in this time of crisis and I am very proud that SAB has my back. John Rowe, my banker, and his team worked around the clock to get our PPP loan processed and funded which enabled confidence that we can weather this storm and still take good care of our employees even while having to close during the pandemic. Thank you!

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– Dr. Micheal Munn, Ross and Munn Orthodontics

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Thank you to South Atlantic Bank’s Charleston team for helping ‘The Carolina Girl’ throughout the small business grant program. This COVID-19 relief program will allow our family-run business to continue to operate and pay our employees while we all weather this storm. This would not have been possible without the help from Ken Pickens and his team. We were granted funds in the first round within days and we will be forever grateful for Ken’s assistance throughout this process! Thank you again from Captain Bob and our whole team! – Courtney Elizabeth, The Carolina Girl

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South State meets customer needs through PPP assistance Recognizing that the COVID-19 pandemic created an unprecedented healthcare and humanitarian crisis for the customers and communities South State serves, South State bankers quickly stepped in to help deliver SBA Payment Protection Program assistance. Responding with excellent customer service, knowledge and expertise, the bankers worked tirelessly to ensure they helped as many businesses as possible—both customers and non-customers. “We feel very fortunate to be able to provide assistance during this time of need, said Robert R. Hill, Jr., South State Corporation president and chief executive officer. “Our company was born out of the Great Depression, and we stood ready then, as we have today, to serve as a source of strength to help individuals, businesses and communities as they recover— both personally and financially.” Mike Coggin, S.C. Upstate division president, says his team quickly rallied together when they saw the flood of Paycheck Protection Program loan applications coming in from businesses. Even a national holiday didn’t stop them from being available to help customers. “It certainly wasn’t planned, but Good Friday was ‘go time’ for us,” Coggin recalls. “Our entire Commercial team worked around the clock on that weekend to deliver for our customers.”

Chelsea Black, branch manager at the Bluffton Oak Forest location, processed paperwork for more than 100 PPP loans. She pulled team members from all areas of the bank to pitch in during Easter weekend. “Together we all worked tirelessly to make sure we helped as many as we could,” she says.

livelihoods was incredibly impactful and rewarding,” she adds.

South State received dozens of positive comments and tokens of appreciation from businesses that received PPP funds, showing their appreciation for the bankers who helped them save their shops, keep food on their employees’ tables and bring peace of mind.

“ We a r e g r a t e f u l t h a t o u r customers have chosen us as their bank, and it’s our obligation to give them our very best effort,” he says.

Kevin Blackwood, Piedmont regional president, and his team were able to build new relationships by providing exceptional service to those seeking PPP loans. Several business owners decided to move their accounts to South State, commending their banker for not hesitating when the task of obtaining PPP funds required them to work nights and weekends. One owner commented that South State’s contribution will be part of the reason that their community recovers from the pandemic. Black says hearing from satisfied customers makes the long hours worthwhile. “In hard times like these, being there to help anxious business owners support their employees and their own

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Reflecting on the collective effort of South State’s bankers, Coggin is appreciative of how his team rose to the occasion as business owners placed their trust in them.

South State Bank is proud to have helped more than 10,000 small businesses receive more than $1 billion in Small Business Administration Paycheck Protection Program loans.

Senior FSR Alisha Underwood and Angela Cottingham, branch manager of the Surfside Beach branch, accepted notes of appreciation from grateful business customers on behalf of their team members. Regional president Dale Zeglin, commercial bankers Barrett Slaughter and Clark Crist, loan assistants Charlene Hatfield and Jacquelyn Johnson, tellers Rita Kennedy, Paula Kelly and Danielle Sheldon, senior teller Maria Slate, and FSR Teri Broughton played an integral role in assisting businesses with their PPP loan applications.

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Thank you for treating us as well as you have, and for making us feel like we actually matter as a customer to any bank.

You made the entire process straightforward and easy, you kept us informed of status and updates, and you answered most of our questions before we even asked them.

My faith in banks has been restored to a great extent by this experience.

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Sandra Martin, Owner, Gene’s Restaurant, Chester and Jim Bennett, President & CEO Spratt Savings Bank, Chester, SC.

When I first heard about the program, I made an initial decision for our bank to not participate. Since we were not a certified SBA lender, it sounded like something that would be more trouble than it’s worth. Then I got a call from Sandra who had heard about the program on the news. She runs a small restaurant down town which had just closed it’s doors to the public. And while they were trying to do curbside service, that was just not working. She had pretty much explained to her staff that layoffs were coming. However, her employees were still showing up even if they weren’t getting paid. Sandra said she had been using her savings to pay them but that was running out. So, she asked if we were doing these PPP loans. At that point, I decided that we were going to have to figure out how to make these loans available to our customers. Over the next few

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days and nights (and with the help of Fred, Neil, and others there at the SCBA) I got approved by the SBA as an originator and got up to speed on the program. When we finally were able to do these loans, Sandra’s restaurant was the very first one we funded. Since then, our community bank has closed over 100 of these loans affecting over 600 jobs! One thing I am proud of is the fact that more than half of those loans are under $11,000. This means that we have helped a great number of small businesses. And, because our staff worked many late nights, we have not turned away a single customer! — Jim Bennett, President, CEO Spratt Savings Bank, Chester SC

The South Carolina Synovus team has put in 6000+ hours working on the PPP and making sure that every application was submitted with accurate and complete information. We worked around the clock, with teams on alternating 12 hour shifts during the most crucial times of data input. Our team was dedicated, efficient and sensitive to the needs and anxieties of our customers. While it was exhausting, sometimes intimidating and other times frustrating, the Synovus team stepped up, volunteered and never complained. We shined. And it is so rewarding knowing that we played a small part in keeping small businesses going, our communities viable, and our customers informed all along the way.

Jerry Tekac has an elderly individual who owns a small business and has been self-quarantined for over a month, due to being considered more high-risk. She didn’t have the resources to help her complete the application and all the other necessary documents while being at home. Jerry took it upon himself to drive to her house, where he greeted her over her backyard fence and helped walk her through filling out the application appropriately, while also collecting the right documentation. Jerry then took the information, scanned it in, completed the underwriting/ validation, attached the mapping spreadsheet and was able to get the client into the e-trans queue. — Charleston, SC

....That’s all we did for at least 8-10 days and most of that time we were short an employee. So, 3 of us working 45hour weeks thru lunch and in the evenings. We had a brand-new teller who started in the middle of this all, Lindsey Atkinson. She ran the drive-thru with very little direction or input from us. And she did a GREAT job. She referred a new customer to Billy from the driver-thru. The customer turned out to be from an affluent family and has so far moved 5 accounts to Synovus. At least 80-90 hours (not counting Lindsey’s hours) with at least 33 new accounts opened. At least 20 of those were new customers to the bank. Our BSS came in 2 Saturdays just to get us caught up on documentation. We devised a system. I (DeAnn Grayson) would be the point of contact for the customer, Billy Flint would open the account, and Melina Huskey kept track of documentation needed. We made a spreadsheet with everything needed for each customer—debit card, checks, online banking, etc. We are still working off that spreadsheet to keep in touch with the customer. We are also getting several new personal accounts, equity lines, and mortgages from the new customers. — Meeting Street, Charleston, SC

I was able to talk with a customer multiple times during the first phase to help him process his loan. He was impressed because it was a Saturday afternoon and his bank was calling him. We were able to help him based on the SBA guidelines to get funding. Later he realized that some changes were made to the PPP guidelines which made his company eligible for additional funding. His concern was that he had already processed the loan and it was too late. After taking additional steps and forwarding document to management it was determined that we could complete a modification for the client and get him what was needed to keep his business going. Based on our service he has referred new clients to us and speaks highly of Synovus to everyone. — Lee Belcher S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 • PALMETTO BANKER

During the recent chaos in the world, Pete reached out to us to let us know that Synovus would be a lender with the SBA loan. The Friday that it opened up to apply, he was in constant contact with us and gave us his personal cell phone number if we were not able to reach him. On Saturday when we were notified to submit further information and we had questions, he was there to help us through. The following Monday Jerry Tekac reached out to us to let us know what we were missing and to help us through the rest of the application process. He was so extremely helpful and was there through every step to make sure we were submitting our application properly with the correct documents. I’m quite sure the process would not have gone as smoothly if it was not for his guidance. We can’t thank him enough for having the patience he had with us with all of the back and forth questions. Jenn at the Goose Creek branch was so helpful and flexible with us to get a new account set up. We had a few bumps trying to get it open, but she definitely went above and beyond. — Goose Creek Customer

I want to give kudos to my RB, Cara Airey. She worked the first weekend with P3, and she also continued to work on the P3 team to answer customer emails. She did this, while still taking care of customers. She went over, and beyond and didn’t complain during this challenging time. Mark Raines was the only Retail Market Manager/Leader in SC to be on the P3 underwriting team. I think he also deserves kudos. He was still taking care of his customers while working night and day on the P3 team. He helped me, so I could help my customers. I will forever be grateful to him for that. Working from home day, and night while still helping his customer’s, and running a branch is going over and beyond in my opinion! — Tiffany Matthews, Myrtle Beach, SC

Every email, phone call or text from anxious, desperate and ultimately grateful people—sometimes just needing someone to vent frustrations or to confirm they were not forgotten. One longtime customer had last minute issues because of an EIDL. Working with a member of the team whose normal function is in our SBA Lending division, we were able to resolve that issue and identity and correct a math error subsequently preparing them for submission and funding in the second round. — Karen Eckford, Camden, SC

As soon as the “batch file” was accepted on Friday (5/1), I spent a couple hours calling all my customers with the good news that their loans were going into the “ready for closing” stage. Those were some of the best calls I have ever made in my 39 years of banking. However, one call stands out. I reached out to a gentleman that has been one of my prospects for a couple years and he trusted us with his PPP loan request after his bank never responded. The approval meant so much to him (being able to keep his employees on his payroll) that he wept. It was very touching and reminded me of why we have been working 72 hours a week. — Doug Matney, Charleston, SC

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FROM: Rovina Andrade, Loan Officer/ Senior Vice President – Mt. Pleasant

I can only imagine the herculean effort the Bank of SC team made to facilitate the SBA loans. We are very fortunate to be among the lucky few [to receive the funds], and it is a reminder how fortunate we are to work with such a great bank and with such great people. The Bank of South Carolina has always been somewhat of a mythical creature to me, and somehow ya’ll lived up to that reputation under the most trying circumstances. Thank you!

– Convenience Store Owner

Oh, you don’t know how much I love you for this. I’ll never say anything bad about Clemson ever again!

– Interior Designer

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I am literally crying tears of joy. You are one amazing lady and I am one grateful person. Thank you with all my heart, you have literally given me a life line! You are such a gift that I am so grateful for!

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– Boutique Owner

FROM: Helen Mixon, Loan Officer/ Senior Vice President – Summerville

Thanks again for your hard work in getting these loans processed and out to us and the businesses in need. The loan for us, was just in time to save 14 jobs at our ENT practice from temporary or potential long-term unemployment.

– Medical Doctor

I’m not sure you know how much you are appreciated, but most of all, you should know how much I appreciate how you have always been there to help me. God bless you.

– Cardiology Practice Manager FROM: Chase Talbert, Loan Officer/ Vice President – West Ashley

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I still can’t believe the bank was able to get us funding! We will definitely have to do something to give back. God is so good. Thank you.

– Plumbing Company Owner

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FROM: Hugh Lane, III, Loan Officer – Downtown Charleston

I want you to know how very much I appreciated your efforts in making the PPP loan happen for my law firm. You were delightful to work with and I am thrilled that you are back home and working in the Bank. I was very close to your grandfather and over the years I looked to him for direction on many things. I am also devoted to your wonderful father. So, needless to say, it is wonderful to now be working with you. You are a true legacy. All the best and many, many thanks!

– Attorney

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“When you own a business, you have a responsibility to take care of your employees because they are the straw that stirs the drink.” That is what William S. “Tripp” Gaillard of Gaillard Insurance said to me as we discussed his business and the effects that Covid-19 could have on it. He described sitting with two of his employees in their homes, working to convince them that it would be a good decision to leave their current job and join him in a new insurance business. It is easy to see why Tripp has such a good team at Gaillard Insurance; the caring attitude he displays to his employees is passed on to their customers. It is businesses like this that make the SBA-PPP Loan program so vital. “In times like this,” Tripp said, “It’s the kindness of a friend that is remembered in the end, it is a debt that is a pleasure to repay.” It was a pleasure to help him. — Greg Shuler, Vice President, Branch Manager, The Citizens Bank

Banker Darrell with Craig Clark of Subway

...Suzanne Galloway of Midnight Rooster

...Robbie & Dale Parker of Westwood BBQ

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...Joann DeLong of The United Way

...Pam Flowers of Pam’s Restaurant

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TCB Banker Paul Robbins and Tony Walton of Barrier Reef Fiberglass Pools LLC, practicing social distancing at his PPP loan closing.

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TCB Banker Darrell Cassidy presenting PPP proceeds to Denise Cooper with Rubicon, Inc. We are so happy to be able to help our businesses! #TCBCommunityCares

Service to our community took a new turn this year as Covid-19 had a tremendous impact on local businesses. The Peoples Bank was able to offer Small Business Administration (SBA) loans that helped many employers make payroll as the pandemic had significant effects on the operation of their businesses. As of June 4, 2020 we assisted with 294 Payroll Protection Program loans totaling 23 million dollars helping over 3500 employees keep their jobs.

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Nakia and the entire Peoples Bank team were amazing in helping us get our small business loan during the Covid-19. We are so appreciative of their dedication in making sure our business could remain open and survive the pandemic. They truly take care of their customers and do everything they can to meet your needs! Forever grateful! – The Raines on Main Family

Being able to get the PPP loan through The Peoples Bank gave us relief from worrying about having to close our businesses due to the crisis. The Peoples Bank made the process very easy and simple which helped out tremendously. We are very grateful to the bank for all of their help. – The Bikas Family George’s Drive In The Clock of Anderson

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United Community Bankâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team of more than 500 bankers rallied around the clock to help process over 10,700 PPP loans to fund over $1 billion. Pictured here are team members leaving our Greenville corporate office location at 2:00 AM after working hard to support our customers. 66

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Local customer, Scott P., knew how busy our bankers have been helping local businesses in Anderson, SC, so he dropped off donuts as a pick-me-up. Our team was grateful for the snack, but even more appreciative of the kind words that Scott had attached.

I just want to express my gratitude to your bank branch in Greenville, SC and Michelle Seaver and her team at East North Street. During the coronavirus chaos, at a time when things have been very hectic, she and her team continued customer service to me and my business at a high level. It means so much to not be forgotten even during the most difficult of times. I will never bank anywhere else.

– Barton A.

Thank you for your quick response and guiding me through the process. It is very refreshing to meet someone who does business with the little guys and truly cares for their well-being and success. We will not forget you nor UCBI. Proud to be a future new member of the UCBI family.

– Ralph W.

The customer service and the speediness of applying for the PPP was heartfelt from our local United Community Bank office! It’s helping get our employees back to work and off unemployment and will probably save our 41 year old business. Thanks UCB for all of the personal attention given thru this process!

– Nick C.

OMG THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! I’m crying right now I’m so relieved. Its perfect timing, my rent is due tomorrow! I simply cannot thank you enough for all of your help and for you staying on top of this. You are amazing!!

– Local Salon Owner S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 • PALMETTO BANKER

Dr. Richard Morrow, a private practice urologist in Lexington, found himself in the same position as many small-business owners when COVID-19 began. For 42 years, he ran his practice by getting to know families through house calls, shaking hands and face-to-face diagnosis. He preferred these patient relation skills to treating a chart number. So, as the pandemic grew throughout the state, Dr. Morrow—like many small-business owners —took a financial hit from the changing times. Kristen, his office manager, suggested he reach out to his local Wells Fargo to see if he could apply for a PPP loan. Jamie Baxley, a

premier banker at the Lexington Place branch, walked Dr. Morrow through the application process and helped him understand the rules. More importantly, he kept the private practice informed and made sure to see the application process through to completion. Dr. Morrow was approved for a loan, preventing any employee to be furloughed or let go. “You hear many times that large banks don’t care about the little guys,” Dr. Morrow wrote in a letter. “… Mr. Baxley understood he could make a difference, and that’s all it takes. [We] are grateful to Wells Fargo and Mr. Baxley for taking care of us like family.”

In Columbia, the owner of a local pizza restaurant called Wells Fargo’s Sparkleberry branch just after the first round of PPP funding finished. The smallbusiness owner was disappointed that he didn’t get to apply for a loan and asked Premier Banker Robert Suss to keep him updated on future opportunities to apply. When the new round of PPP funding became available, Robert reached out to the small-business owner and walked him through the submission process. Robert talked to him frequently in the days to follow, keeping the customer updated on documentation needed, next steps, etc. The customer told Robert he really appreciated his guidance and information he received during the process. 68

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The North Rivers Market branch in North Charleston showed their customers that they are, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Proud to be Essential.

As Wells Fargo has had to adjust branch operations and transition to drive-thru services only, customers and team members have experienced increased traffic. To help customers have a seamless drive-thru experience, Wells Fargo worked with vendors to supply off-duty officers, many of whom work an additional 20-30 hours on top of their regular 40-hour workweek to support Wells Fargo team members and customers. The team at the Simpsonville branch showed their appreciation to Sgt. Matt Wolfe for his hard work and gave him a goody bag filled with water, Gatorade and snacks. S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 â&#x20AC;˘ PALMETTO BANKER

Y oung B ankers D ivision

2020 Young Bankers Annual Conference MARCH 6-8, 2020 | The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee | Greensboro, GA

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The 2020 Young Bankers Division Annual Conference proved to be one of the best in recent years! The Annual Conference provides a fantastic opportunity to make new friends, establish, cultivate and maintain relationships and learn about the critical issues facing bankers and the banking industry today. On March 6-8, close to 200 bankers, associates, spouses and guests gathered at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, Greensboro, GA for educational presentations, business development and fellowship. One of the most important initiatives of the SCBA is to facilitate peer-to-peer interaction for our member banks and business-to-business interaction for our banks and associate members. The business sessions and special activities throughout the 2020 Conference created an opportunity for just that. Chair Betsy Steifle, Bank of Travelers Rest, was delighted to present a conference with a diverse and varied array of speakers able to talk on a range of important topics. Over the weekend attendees had access to top industry thought leaders, shared ideas with peers, received strategies for solving challenges and gained insight to help influence positive change within their organization. Steifle said, “With the changing horizon of the marketplace, having industry leaders available for discussion on top trends in the economy and technology is a valuable resource. These types of relevant topics are tangible and can be taken back and shared with senior staff in our organization.” The acquisition and dissemination of knowledge is vital to our efforts, our industry and the future of South Carolina. Attendees heard from experts and professionals ranging from a Homeland Security Special Agent to an incredible American hero. These speakers included Special Agent Jantzen N. “J.” Blackmon, Homeland Security Investigations; David “Dave” DeFazio, partner at StrategyCorps; James J. “Jim” Edwards, Jr., CEO of United Bank and Chair-Elect of the ABA and Dale S. Sheller, Senior Vice President in the Financial Strategies Group, The Baker Group. The keynote speaker for the 2020 Conference was First Lieutenant Patrick Cleburne McClary III, USMC, Retired, known to thousands as “Clebe McClary.” On Saturday morning, Martine Helou, Executive Director of Palmetto Foundation for Prevention and Recovery led an inspirational prayer breakfast. Building a strong network and cultivating relationships is equally as important as the educational components of this Conference. The SCBA planned special events for attendees on Saturday afternoon that included a sporting clays outing, a garden to glass event, playing a round of golf or relaxing at the beautiful Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee.

The Conference concluded with dinner and a “Casino Night” on Saturday evening. Attendees dressed in their best roaring 20’s — glitz and glamour, fritz and frills, flappers and fedoras. Many pressed their luck at Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, and Texas Hold ‘em Poker! JB Schwiers, President and CEO of GrandSouth Bank said, “The difference between average and excellence will be found in the quality of your people. We have a commitment to recruiting, hiring, motivating and retaining the best bankers we can find. Part of that strategy is to always have strong depth in your team with young bankers that have great potential. I believe you should be obligated to helping them develop and have a real opportunity to rise to the top. The Young Bankers Division Annual Conference and the South Carolina Bankers School is an important part of the development process for us.” One of SCBA’s Associate Members, Lindsay Joyner, a lawyer with Gallivan White Boyd who practices financial services litigation, had this to say, “I have attended the Young Bankers Conference for seven years. This year’s Conference speakers were the best yet, providing timely information on the rapidly changing economy as well as ways to leverage technology in this industry. I always enjoy the opportunity the Conference provides for me to build relationships with bankers and other associate members from across South Carolina as I seek to better understand the issues being faced in the banking

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industry so that I can develop strategies to best serve them should they ever need my assistance. I also really enjoy the opportunity to kick back and relax with those who I have gotten to know through my years of attending this Conference and to meet the new up and coming leaders of their banks. So often we are busy or moving in so many directions, it is nice to take time and catch up, especially while dressed up in a flapper costume playing Blackjack with money I am not afraid to lose!” Allison Cranford, TD Bank, N.A., was elected to serve as Chair of the Young Bankers Division Board for the 2020-2021 SCBA year and she is excited to announce the 2021 Conference will be held at The Omni Grove Park Inn, Asheville, NC, March 19-21, 2021. Mark these dates on your calendar and make plans to send your emerging leaders. Our goal is to educate and empower tomorrow’s banking and business leaders while also encouraging personal, professional and community development. What makes the Young Bankers Division and the SCBA unique is the ability for each to compete fiercely by day but to come together and interact socially by night with each other to share ideas, challenges and opportunities.

A special thanks to our many sponsors—this event would not be possible without your support!

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Y O U N G

B A N K E R S

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A N N U A L

C O N F E R E N C E

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We understand that many students today find themselves burdened by tremendous debt upon graduation. The Palmetto Scholarship has awarded thousands of dollars to students statewide over the years through money raised at our Scholarship Golf Tournament and the SCBA Education Foundation. By offering the Palmetto Scholarship to children of bank employees and part-time employees who are also students and meet criteria, the South Carolina Bankers Association seeks to help students pursue higher education while also helping lay the foundation for the next generation of South Carolina’s leaders. We are pleased to announce that we were able to award $70,000 in scholarships to deserving students this year.

Palmetto Scholarship Winners

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Thank you to you and the Young bankers for choosing Sophia as a recipient for the Palmetto Scholarship. The $1000 dollars will be very helpful for books and tuition. I am proud during these challenging times to be a banker and a position to help the businesses in my community, and proud that the banking community has the support and guidance from the SC Bankers Association.

”

Regards, Ken Washburn Vice President/ Financial Services Officer of Security Federal Bank 76

S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 • PALMETTO BANKER

AMERIS BANK Rachel Anderson, child of Teresa Anderson Scott Samson, child of Brian Samson ANDERSON BROTHERS BANK Payton Barnhill, child of Tina Barnhill TJ McCoy, child of Tim McCoy BANK OF AMERICA Hannah Elia, child of Vincent Elia Adam Baker, child of Charlotte Baker Cassey Nicholl, child of Cheryl Nicholl Kasey Peterson, child of Michelle Peterson Chamberlin Glover, child of Felicia B. Bell Sophie Steele, child of Terry Steele Mims Stewart, child of Melissa Albergotti Joe Lassiter, employee of Bank of America BANK OF CLARENDON Brynne Baxley, child of Lisa Reed BANK OF TRAVELERS REST Kayelin Talley, child of Christopher Talley Kailyn Wilkey, child of Kathy Wilkey BANK OF YORK Abby Good, child of Beverly Good CAROLINA BANK AND TRUST Caroline Falcone, child of Brian Falcone COASTAL CAROLINA NATIONAL BANK Ryan Riedinger, child of Marjorie Riedinger Eugene Rocco Utley, child of Maura Utley COMMUNITY FIRST BANK Kathleen Champagne, child of Jennifer M. Champagne COUNTYBANK John Ross Cooper, child of John Wesley Cooper Morgan Roberts, child of Christopher Roberts CRESCOM BANK Carley Blackwell, child of Christy Blackwell – Winner of $2,500 CresCom Scholarship Riley Cook, child of Maury Cook – Winner of $2,500 CresCom Scholarship Shane Peters, child of Helen Peters ENTERPRISE BANK OF SOUTH CAROLINA Lauren Allison Arabis, child of Deana Bailey FIRST CITIZENS BANK Boyce McCool, child of Gerald McCool Kamryn Walker, child of Jonathan Walker Evan Groth, child of Steven J. Groth Morgan McCrary, child of Vicki McCrary Delta Pennington, child of Dori Pennington

FIRST COMMUNITY BANK Riley Branham, child of Charlie Branham Rachel Hair, employee of First Community Bank Andrew Lyon, child of John Lyon FIRST PALMETTO BANK Amya Thrash, child of Sheila Thrash FIRST RELIANCE BANK Allie Kyber, child of G. Neal Kyber Isaac Smith, child of Catherine Smith Will Kenan, child of Kemper Kenan Jordan Whitfield, child of David Whitfield GRANDSOUTH BANK Milli Barbrey, child of Traci T. Barbrey SECURITY FEDERAL BANK Sophia Washburn, child of Ken Washburn SOUTH ATLANTIC BANK Austin Siau, child of Daniel Frank Siau Rhyan Morgan, child of Amanda Morgan Olivia Suggs, child of Tiffany Platt Suggs SOUTH STATE BANK Eli Goodwin, child of Marty Goodwin Wallace Townsend, child of Frank Townsend LeighAnn Faulkner, child of Robert Faulkner Sidney McLaughlin, child of Ellen Cammer Jade Huang, child of Nancy Cox Ashley Walker, child of Christie Walker Amy Petrolawicz, child of Lee Petrolawicz Taylor Grace Pearson, child of John Pearson Kaila Gleaton, child of Tammy Ballenger-Gleaton SOUTHERN FIRST BANK Hew Kneeland, child of Matt Kneeland Delaney Dowling, child of Mike Dowling TD BANK, N.A. Jenna Sulkowski Sulkowski, child of Daniel Sulkowski McKenna King, child of Kelly King Jacob Koenemann, child of Mary Koenemann Aditya Pradhan, child of Preeti Pradhan Andrew Hunt, employee of TD Bank, N.A. Jess Grillo, child of Amber Beck Vedanti Patel, employee of TD Bank, N.A. THE BANK OF SOUTH CAROLINA Jonathan Stone, child of Traci Stone THE CITIZENS BANK Julianna Keller, child of David Keller THE PEOPLES BANK Ryleigh Davis, child of Nakia Davis Andrew Warren, child of Katherine (Kitty) Warren UCBI Madeline Durrell, child of William Durrell

S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 • PALMETTO BANKER

2 0 2 0

a l m e t t o

Abby Good and her mother, Beverly Good, of Bank of York

c h o l a r s h i p

i n n e r s

Andrew Hunt accepting his scholarship check, with his supervisors Erin Roach and Grant Summerford, all of TD Bank

Andrew Warren with his mom, Kitty Warren of The Peoples Bank

Caroline Falcone with her father Brian Falcone, SVP and Vera B. Herbert, VP of Carolina Bank

S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 â&#x20AC;˘ PALMETTO BANKER

2 0 2 0

Delta Pennington accepting her scholarship check with her mother Dori Pennington, of First Citizens Bank

a l m e t t o

c h o l a r s h i p

i n n e r s

Eli Goodwin, son of Marty Goodwin of South State Bank, with his scholarship check

Delaney Dowling and Art Seaver, President & CEO of Southern First Bank

Hannah Elia with father Vincent Elia of Bank of America

Isaac Smith with his mother Catherine Smith of First Reliance Bank

Jacob Koenemann with his check. His mother is Mary Koenemann of TD Bank.

Jade Huang with mother Nancy Cox of South State Bank S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 â&#x20AC;˘ PALMETTO BANKER

2 0 2 0

a l m e t t o

c h o l a r s h i p

McKenna King with her mother Kelly King of TD Bank

Cassey Nicholl with mother Cheryl Nicholl, of Merrill Lynch

Carley Blackwell receiving her scholarship winner email while away for the summer

i n n e r s

Kemper Kenan of First Reliance Bank and his son Will

Jonathan Stone and his mother Traci Stone, Drive-In-Teller, The Bank of South Carolina

John Ross Cooper and his father John Cooper of Countybank 80

S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 â&#x20AC;˘ PALMETTO BANKER

Kathleen Champagne with father and mother Jennifer Champagne, of Community First Bank

2 0 2 0

a l m e t t o

c h o l a r s h i p

Kailyn Wilkey with parents, check presentation from Kelley Moss of Bank of Travelers Rest

Kayelin Talley with parents, check presentation from Kelley Moss of Bank of Travelers Rest

Mims Stewart with mother Melissa Albergotti of Bank of America

i n n e r s

Madeline Durrell with her scholarship check. Her father is William Durrell of UCBI.

LeighAnn Faulkner and her father Robert Faulkner of South State Bank

Madelyn Baxley with mother Lisa Reed from Bank of Clarendon

Julianna Keller with her parents Jamie and David Keller, of The Citizens Bank

S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 â&#x20AC;˘ PALMETTO BANKER

2 0 2 0

a l m e t t o

c h o l a r s h i p

i n n e r s

Morgan Roberts with her father Chris Roberts of Countybank

Neal Kyber of First Reliance Bank and daughter Allie

Payton Barnhill with mother Tina Barnhill of Anderson Brothers Bank

Ryleigh Davis with her father Nakia Davis of The Peoples Bank

Sophia Steele Receiving Her Scholarship Check

Wallace Townsend and father Frank Townsend of South State Bank

David Whitfield of First Reliance Bank and his daughter, Jordan

Rachel Anderson with mother Teresa Anderson of Ameris Bank

Riley Cook with mother Maury Cook of CresCom Bank (United Bank dba CresCom)

S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 â&#x20AC;˘ PALMETTO BANKER

2 0 2 0

a l m e t t o

c h o l a r s h i p

i n n e r s

Traci Barbrey on behalf of daughter, Milli Barbrey, with Sam Peden, John Wood, and JB Schwiers of GrandSouth Bank

Shane Peters acceping his check with his mother Helen Peters and Jerry Jenerette of CresCom Bank

Taylor Grace Pearson and her father, John Pearson of South State Bank

TJ McCoy with parents. Father Tim McCoy is with Anderson Brothers Bank.

Ryan Riedinger with his mother Margie Riedinger of Coastal Carolina National Bank

Olivia Suggs with mother Tiffany Suggs of South Atlantic Bank S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 â&#x20AC;˘ PALMETTO BANKER

2 0 2 0

a l m e t t o

c h o l a r s h i p

i n n e r s

Rachel Hair, student and employee, with Ted Nissen and Drew Painter of First Community Bank

Jessica Grillo and her mother Amber Beck with TD Bank, NA

Sophia Washburn and father Ken Washburn of Security Federal Bank

Adam Baker Receiving his Scholarship Check

Austin Siau with father Danny Siau of South Atlantic Bank 84

S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 â&#x20AC;˘ PALMETTO BANKER

Morgan McCrary with mother Vicki McCrary, James Bennett and Sharon Bryant all of First Citizens Bank

2 0 2 0

a l m e t t o

c h o l a r s h i p

Amya Thrash, her parents Sheila and Michael Thrash, and Sammy Small of First Palmetto Bank

i n n e r s

Kamryn Walker accepting her check with her father Jonathan of FCB via face time because she is away for the summer

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Riley Branham, with her father Charlie Branham of First Community Bank S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 â&#x20AC;˘ PALMETTO BANKER

2 0 2 0

a l m e t t o

Boyce McCool, son of Gerald McCool of First Citizens Bank

Hew Kneeland receiving his check from Art Seaver, President and CEO, with his father Matt Kneeland of Southern First Bank

c h o l a r s h i p

S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 â&#x20AC;˘ PALMETTO BANKER

i n n e r s

Andrew Lyon & his father, John Lyon of First Community Bank

KC Peterson, daughter of Michelle Peterson of Bank of America, celebrating with her sister

Kaila Gleaton with her mother Tammy Ballenger-Gleaton of South State Bank 86

Eugene Utley, son of Maura Utley of Coastal Carolina National Bank

Lauren Arabis with Reid Pollard, President & CEO, and her mother Deana Bailey of Enterprise Bank of South Carolina

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