Georgia Communities First Magazine - Spring 2013

Offi

cial

Pub

licat

ion

of th

e Co

mm

unit

y Ba

nker

s A

ssoc

iati

on o

f Geo

rgia

SP

RIN

G 2

01

3

Member:

2013 Day at the Capitol

Spring Regional Luncheon Meetings

Educational Events Galore!

Celebrate Community Banking Month!

Inside

CBA i s . . . Pass ion . Purpose . Power.

Driving Success35th Annual Leadership Division Convention & Mini-Trade Show

StokeS LazaruS & CarmiChaeL LLPattorneyS at Law

Our firm has provided legal services for the banking community in the areas of credit and collections litigation, fraudulent transfer litigation, bankruptcy representation, and bank loan workouts since our inception in 1972.

We pride ourselves on “Real World Legal Solutions®.” We welcome the opportunity to discuss how we can help you optimize recoveries.

Stokes Lazarus & Carmichael LLP80 Peachtree Park Drive, NE

Atlanta, Georgia 30309Tel. 404-352-1465

The Power of Legal Knowledge®Visit us online at www.slclaw.com

Spr ing 2013 | Georgia Communit ies F i rst | 1

Carolyn Brown President & [email protected]

Steve Bridges Executive Director of Legislative & Regulatory [email protected]

Shera Banks Marketing [email protected]

Donna Coutant Education & Special Events [email protected]

Teresa Day Receptionist /Administrative Assistant [email protected]

Lindsay Greene Vice President Marketing & Member Services [email protected]

Amanda Lee Education [email protected]

Tammy Maass CFO [email protected]

Jodi Swilley Vice President Education & Professional Development [email protected]

Charlie Watts Lobbyist

Nick Wilborn Operations Assistant [email protected]

Peake Wilson Vice President [email protected]

GEORGIACommunitiesFIRST F E A T U R E S

SPRING 2013

Community Bankers Association of Georgia1900 The Exchange, Suite 600, Atlanta, GA 30339

(770) 541-4490 or (800) 648-8215 • Fax (770) 541-4496www.cbaofga.com • [email protected]

StokeS LazaruS & CarmiChaeL LLPattorneyS at Law

Our firm has provided legal services for the banking community in the areas of credit and collections litigation, fraudulent transfer litigation, bankruptcy representation, and bank loan workouts since our inception in 1972.

We pride ourselves on “Real World Legal Solutions®.” We welcome the opportunity to discuss how we can help you optimize recoveries.

Stokes Lazarus & Carmichael LLP80 Peachtree Park Drive, NE

Atlanta, Georgia 30309Tel. 404-352-1465

The Power of Legal Knowledge®Visit us online at www.slclaw.com

page 4 | Day at the Capitol

page 6 | Spring Regional Luncheon Meetings

page 8 | Leadership Division Convention

page 21 | Community Banking Month

3

4

7

12

13

22

25

29

30

31

32

CBA STAFF

Scan with your smartphone to view our website.

S T A y C O N N E C T E d

I N S I d E

Day at the Capitol - A Huge Success!

Message from the President/CEO's Desk

Leadership Division PAC/PR Golf Tournaments

Century Bank of Georgia Partners with Agencies to Donate $5,000 to Bartow and Gordon Counties Recovery Efforts

Leadership Division Tours Children's Healthcare

Educational & Networking Opportunities

April & May Compliance Program to Cover Recent CFPB Mortgage Final Rules

Evolving Banking Strategies in the Age of Universal Commerce

It's Time for Improved Efficiency and Reduced Operating Costs

How Banks Can Safely Embrace Bring Your Own Device

Plans That Bind

Thursday, April 18Stonebridge Golf & Country

ClubAlbany

Tuesday, April 16Athens Country Club

Tuesday, April 9Brickyard at Riverside Golf Club

Macon

Wednesday, April 10Forest Heights Country Club

Statesboro

·

·

·

·

Tuesday, April 30Cartersville Country Club

·

Cover photo: Rendering of newly renovated Lobby of the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort, Amelia Island,FL

2 | www.cbaofga.com | Spring 2013

But I will say that this schizophrenic approach to policymaking has negative consequences. Despite entreaties to ensure equal access to credit, the alphabet soup of regulations hampers the ability of community banks to devote their resources to making loans. Additionally, words from Washington to reach out to underserved borrowers who pose “reasonable” risks often fall on deaf ears to the examiners who come to town to open up the books. In other words, you’re damned if you do and damned if you don’t.

So what’s the secret? How can policymakers promote lending decisions that do not pose excess risk but also support loans to homebuyers who might not be perfect on paper?

Well, here’s one way: Support the relationship lenders out there who meet face-to-face with borrowers to determine their qualifications and potential risks. Instead of driving these folks out of business with strict standards that don’t mesh with their business model, let’s encourage the community bank system of

symbiotic relationships with customers and communities.

In other words, before Washington policymakers develop their diagnosis and prognosis on how to restore health to our nation’s financial system, maybe they should step back first and figure out what not to do. Maybe doing no harm should be their first priority.

F I N E R P O I N T S

Primum non nocere

This Latin phrase might be more relevant to community bankers than they realize. Translated to “first, do no harm,” it is widely affiliated with the Hippocratic Oath that guides how physicians approach their profession. The policymakers who form the regulatory framework for our industry—who craft policies designed to influence how community banks do business—could learn a lot from it.

The community banking industry’s advocacy regimen for less restrictive regulatory policies is pretty straightforward. Simply put, the cost in time and treasure of over-regulation is choking off community banks’ ability to attract and sustain capital to serve their customers and communities. While getting policymakers to stem the relentless heartbeat of regulation is a perpetual challenge, the problem of excess paperwork and red tape is easy to grasp.

But what is sometimes lost in the policymaking shuffle is that not only is the stream of regulations from Washington seemingly endless, it is often contradictory. Community banks are under the knife to obey safety-and-soundness guidelines that restrict access to credit and, at the same time, to dutifully throw out life-saving sustenance to underserved communities. Case in point is the current effort to define a qualified mortgage. If defined too narrowly, community banks will be forced to cut off credit to avoid the risk of litigation while facing the unintended consequences of disparate impact in the name of fair lending. The policy priorities of strict credit guidelines to minimize potential losses and of opening up the lending spigot to ensure equitable access to credit are at odds, and community banks are stuck in the middle. There is a joke in there somewhere about clowns to the left and jokers to the right, but I’m not going to make it.

B y C a m F i n e P r e s i d e n t & C E O ,

I n d e p e n d e n t C o m m u n i t y B a n k e r s o f A m e r i c a

Member:

Regulators Should, First, Do No Harm


Spring is in the air, which means the 2013 Georgia Legislative Session is coming to an end. My sincere thanks to the many bankers and associate members who joined us at the Annual CBA Day at the Capitol – we were delighted with the participation. You will find highlights from this

well-attended event on page 4.

Please take a moment to browse through this issue of Georgia Communities First and learn about the many exciting events the CBA is hosting over the next few months. We’re expecting terrific attendance at the Spring Regional Luncheon Meetings, which will be held in April in Macon, Statesboro, Athens, Albany and Cartersville…we are sure to be in a location near you. We’ve had a positive response to the PAC/PR golf tournaments being held in conjunction with the Spring Regional Luncheon Meetings. This is a great time to network, enjoy the course and support a good cause.

While registrations for webinars continue to increase, we’re still seeing a great deal of interest in the face-to-face programs. We recently hosted the popular Commercial Lending School and registrations continue to roll in for the Consumer Lending School. The new Southeastern Bank Chairman’s Summit

in May at The Ritz-Carlton Lodge in Greensboro offers an interactive format you won’t want to miss. While the Compliance remains a “must” for our banks, we’re happy to see the return of the Marketing Conference for community banks in October.

Don’t forget about the best networking of all at the two annual conventions! “Driving Success” is the theme for the 35th Annual Leadership Division Convention & Mini-Trade Show, June 20 – 23, 2013, at the newly-renovated Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort.

We are extremely excited about the 45th Annual Meeting & Trade Show, September 11 – 15, 2013, at the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort in Destin, Florida. With a terrific line-up of speakers, financial service providers, and educational topics, you will want to register right away.

I look forward to seeing you at an upcoming CBA event. As always, do not hesitate to contact me if I can assist you in any way.

Message from the President/CEO's desk

Carolyn BrownPresident & CEO

SAVE THE DATE!

LOOK FOR MORE DETAILS ON OUR WEBSITE

www.cbaofga.comCBA i s . . . Pass ion . Purpose . Power.

45th Annual Meeting & Trade ShowWednesday - Sunday, September 11 -15, 2013Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, Destin, FL


The Community Bankers Association of Georgia (CBA) hosted the 24th

annual Community Banking Day at the Capitol on Wednesday, February 20, 2013. Starting in 1990, the annual event honors community bankers and state elected officials, as well as emphasizes the important role Georgia's community banks play in their communities. The attendees filled the Capitol halls to see their lawmakers at work and enjoyed a legislative briefing in the historic Georgia Freight Depot.

Guest speakers included State Attorney General, Sam Olens; Senate Banking and Financial Institutions Committee Chairman John Crosby; House Banks and Banking Committee Chairman Greg Morris; and, Commissioner Rob Braswell, Georgia Department of Banking and Finance. Following the briefing, bankers joined their legislators in the Freight Room for a luncheon and the opportunity to discuss important legislation impacting community banking.

“The CBA Community Banking Day at the Capitol is the only event specifically dedicated to making the voice

of Georgia community bankers heard,” said Carolyn Brown, President & Chief Executive Officer of the CBA. “The CBA is active in the political process through lobbying efforts, but nothing is more important to the political process than constituents meeting with their lawmakers. The Association is appreciative of the participation from bankers, associate members and legislators in this annual event.”

Day At The Capitol 2013 - A Huge Success!

Community bankers and associate members gather on the Capitol steps.

(l-r): Dan Oliver, President & CEO, Vinings Bank, Smyrna and 2012-2013 CBA Chairman; Steve Bridges, Executive Director of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs, CBA; Harriet Isenberg, Isenberg & Hewitt, PC and sponsor of the 2013 Day at the Capitol; Carolyn Brown, President & CEO, CBA; Commissioner Rob Braswell, Georgia Department of Banking and Finance; and, David Moore, Vice President, Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA).

SNLBanker helps you stay ahead of it all,

providing a single streamlined source for in-

depth intelligence that’s real and reliable. It’s

the only bank reporting system that integrates

data from any internal system, including the

core processor, general ledger, budget and

CRM systems with external data sources to

give all key stakeholders a 360˚ view of their

institution.

SNLBanker gives you a true understanding of

critical business drivers like risk, customer

relationships and efficiency with a minimal

investment of your resources.

Current banking challenges demand an integrated solution.

MaxiMize PerforMance. reduce risk. increase efficiency.

› Learn more at www.SNLBanker.com.

SPECIAL OFFER for members of the Community Bankers Association of Georgia:Put SNLBanker to work for your bank — request a free demo. Contact Julie Jones at

[email protected], 434.951.4419 to schedule your complimentary 30-minute demonstration.

Credit Quality

Income Statement by Organization

Nielsen P$YCLE ® Segmentation

Cash Management

Pricing pressures.

Changing regulations.

Inefficient reporting processes.

Information overload...

SNLBanker helps you stay ahead of it all,

providing a single streamlined source for in-

depth intelligence that’s real and reliable. It’s

the only bank reporting system that integrates

data from any internal system, including the

core processor, general ledger, budget and

CRM systems with external data sources to

give all key stakeholders a 360˚ view of their

institution.

SNLBanker gives you a true understanding of

critical business drivers like risk, customer

relationships and efficiency with a minimal

investment of your resources.

Current banking challenges demand an integrated solution.

MaxiMize PerforMance. reduce risk. increase efficiency.

› Learn more at www.SNLBanker.com.

SPECIAL OFFER for members of the Community Bankers Association of Georgia:Put SNLBanker to work for your bank — request a free demo. Contact Julie Jones at

[email protected], 434.951.4419 to schedule your complimentary 30-minute demonstration.

Credit Quality

Income Statement by Organization

Nielsen P$YCLE ® Segmentation

Cash Management

Pricing pressures.

Changing regulations.

Inefficient reporting processes.

Information overload...


CBA's 4th Annual Spring Regional Luncheon Meetings

Make Plans Now to Attend!

The CBA is pleased to host the 4th Annual Spring Regional Luncheon Meetings in five convenient locations throughout the state. During these informative meetings, industry

experts will provide updates on the status of banking in Georgia, current trends, and strategies for growth in the future. Plus, you will have time to network with other community bankers and CBA associate members.

Bankers Only Peer Group Meeting

Back by popular demand, the Bankers Only Peer Group Meeting will be held for bankers to network with each other and discuss topics of their choice prior to lunch. These sessions will be moderated by team members from

the accounting firm Nichols, Cauley & Associates, LLC, a CBA associate member. Register today! Seating is limited!

Kevin O’KeefePrincipal, Investment

Banking, Sandler O’Neill + Partners,

L.P, Atlanta

Peter Finnerty, Jr. Principal, Investment

Banking, Sandler O’Neill + Partners,

L.P, Atlanta

Dan OliverPresident & CEO,

Vinings Bank, Smyrna; 2012-2013

CBA Chairman

Jessica BennettProduct Manager

H. D. JacobsSenior Product Expert

J. P. O’SullivanAssociate Director of Financial Institutions

“What the Numbers Tell Us About the Performance of Banks in Georgia.”

The State of the State

presented by

Financial Growth and Strategies For Community Banks

~ Thanks to our Sponsor ~

Bankers Only Peer Group Meeting10:30 am – Registration10:40 am – Meeting

Luncheon Meeting11:25 am – Registration/Networking11:45 am – 1:15 pm – Luncheon Meeting / Presentations1:45 pm – Golf (Macon and Albany Only)

Member Price: Lunch only: $55 per person Lunch & Golf: $150 per person

Non-Member Price (Prepayment is required.)Lunch only: $85 per person Lunch & Golf: $200 per person

Thursday, April 18Stonebridge Golf & Country

ClubAlbany

Tuesday, April 16Athens Country Club

Tuesday, April 9Brickyard at Riverside Golf Club

Macon

Wednesday, April 10Forest Heights Country Club

Statesboro

·

·

·

·

Tuesday, April 30Cartersville Country Club

·

2 Hours

CPE Credits

Available!

Added This Year: Leadership Division PAC/PR Golf Tournaments

SCHEDULE/PRICING

SPEAKERS


Leadership Division 2013 PAC/PR Golf Tournaments

Brickyard at Riverside Golf Club Stonebridge Golf & Country ClubThe first tournament will be held at the Brickyard at Riverside Golf Club in Macon on Tuesday, April 9, 2013.

The Brickyard at Riverside is widely-recognized as one of the finest golf venues in the entire state.

The Brickyard at Riverside is honored to be recognized as the 15th Best Golf Course in Georgia by Golf Digest and host of the Annual Brickyard Collegiate Golf Championship.

The second tournament will be held at the Stonebridge Golf & Country Club in Albany on Thursday, April 18, 2013.

Stonebridge has consistently been recognized by Golf Digest as a private golf course that must be played and when opened in 1997, was rated the 10th best golf course in the United States and Canada.

Designed by Robert C. Walker, the course features a traditional design style and plays 6913 yards from the championship tees.

Skip Franklin, Corey Harwell, and Chuck Harwell won Second Place in last year’s Cordele tournament.

Jeff Miller, Jarrod Prickett, Sam Drennen, and Jeff Dickerson won First Place in last year’s Athens tournament.

About PAC/PR Sponsorships Still AvailableThe Annual Leadership Division PAC/PR Golf Tournaments are a great way to network with other community bankers and benefit a good cause. Proceeds go to the CBA Political Action Committee (PAC) and Public Relations (PR) funds. The funds provide Georgia’s community banking industry a voice in state politics. The CBA maintains the only state PAC working exclusively for community banks.

Beverage Cart: $1,100 (or 2 sponsors at $550 each) Golf Prizes (1st & 2nd Place): $600 19th Hole - Awards Presentation: $750 Sponsor a Hole: $150

All prices are per tournament. Sponsorships are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Call today to reserve yours! Contact Peake Wilson at (770) 541-0379 / (800) 648-8215 or [email protected].

Schedule 1:45 p.m.

Shotgun Start

Cost$150 per person

and includes attendance at the Spring Regional Luncheon


Start Your Engines!Start your engines and get ready for the ride of your life at the Community Bankers Association of Georgia’s (CBA) 35th Annual Leadership Division Convention & Mini-Trade Show, June 20 – 23, 2013, at the newly re-imagined Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort in Amelia Island, Florida.

This year’s convention theme, “Driving Success,” offers a roadmap for success for you, your bank and your community. Both community bankers and financial services providers will benefit greatly from attending.

In addition to great speakers and a fabulous location, attendees will hear from colleagues about the CBA Leadership Division (LD) initiatives, such as Children’s Healthcare fundraising, hosting golf tournaments to collect for CBA’s PAC/PR funds, and the drive to improve Economic Education through community outreach. The Saturday evening “Victory Lane” Chairman’s Family Dinner features activities for the kids and the announcement of the Big Bucks Bonanza Winner – it could be YOU!

Topics Include:

• Rev Up Your Earnings: Alternative Ways to

Enhance Revenue

• Staying the Course: Regulatory Update; Legislative Review; and, ICBA Update

• Accelerating Your Bank’s Growth Through Technology

• Spinning Your Wheels Over Real Estate Evaluations

• Much more!

35TH ANNUAL LEADERSHIP DIVISION CONVENTION & MINI-TRADE SHOWDRIVING


THE OMNI AMELIA ISLAND PLANTATION RESORT

AMELIA ISLAND, FLORIDA | THURSDAY-SUNDAY | JUNE 20-23, 2013

Fueled By InspirationThe spectacular Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort has recently completed an incredible $85 million renovation. The jewel of the expansive resort “re-imagination” features a custom infinity edge adult pool just off the lobby cascading down to the splash-friendly family pool with two nearby hot

tubs, a poolside bar and expanded new dining options - all with ocean views.

The resort offers three golf courses, designed by Pete Dye, Bobby Weed and Tom Fazio. Guests can enjoy an appointment at the Spa and Salon at Amelia Island Plantation, shopping in the village or dining at one of many restaurants on location.

CBA rates include complimentary daily resort fee, self-parking, internet access, on-property transportation service, use of the health & fitness center, resort beach access and more.

Get Into GearThe CBA is known for its one-of-a-kind Mini-Trade Show offering bankers and exhibitors the opportunity to network in a time-efficient setting. Bankers can get up to speed on the latest products and services designed for community banks. Immediately following the Mini-Trade Show, the CBA will host a 30-minute refreshment “Refueling” break featuring networking and great prizes! The Mini-Trade Show is limited to 30 booths to secure your place now.

THuRSDAY, JuNE 20TH

Afternoon Convention RegistrationLD Board Meeting Exhibitor Set-up

FRIDAY, JuNE 21ST

Morning General SessionMini-Trade Show

Rev Up Your Engines Refreshment Break with Exhibitors

Afternoon Golf Tournament

Evening At Your Leisure

SATuRDAY, JuNE 22ND

Morning Dawn Breakers’ SessionGeneral Session LD ReportsICBA ReportKeynote Address

Afternoon At Your Leisure

Evening Victory Lane - Chairman’s Family Reception & Dinner

SuNDAY, JuNE 23RD

Departures

STARTING LINE

Register Today and Make Your Hotel Reservations! To register, call any CBA team member or go online, www.cbaofga.com. For hotel reservations, contact the hotel directly at (888) 261-6161. Be sure to mention you are with the CBA convention to obtain the discounted rates ($219/night for resort view; $259/night for ocean view) for single/double rooms. The group rate is available until Monday, May 20, 2013, or until the CBA block is full. To reserve your hotel room online, please visit http://www.omnihotels.com/FindAHotel/AmeliaIsland/MeetingFacilities/CBA6.aspx.

Prizes Galore! Attend and be entered to win a cash prize on

Friday and Saturday, an iPad from ServiceFirst

Bank or two Super Tickets to the Petit Le

Mans in October at Road Atlanta.

(Tentative Agenda)


35TH ANNUAL LEADERSHIP DIVISION CONVENTION & MINI-TRADE SHOW

ACG, Inc.Dan Swain

banc-serv Partners, LLCBrad Crawford

BankSmartJim Wilkson

CFS, Inc.Mike Conlan

CRS DataJason Pruitt

CSRA Business LendingRandy Griffin

DeNyse CompaniesTim Luther

Ellie Mae, Inc.Cedric Kalvesmaki

Executive Insurance AgencyRyan Sower

GACHAJessica Rios

High CottonJeffrey Reeves

MarquisMike Bartoo

PuLSEMark Reda

Renasant MortgageCarol Martin

REPAYWilliam Brakebill

SHAZAMJames Ghiglieri

Total System Services, Inc. (TSYS)Eddie Cawthorne

TravelersDiana Baker

Triad Financial ServicesKeith Stayer

Individual Event Sponsors

Board Appreciation Reception Hotel Keys Cards In-Room Gifts

Tote Bags Convention Signage

Platinum Elite Sponsor

Platinum Sponsors

Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsor

Spon

sors

Exh

ibit

ors

Registration PacketSaturday Break

35TH ANNUAL LEADERSHIP DIVISION CONVENTION & MINI-TRADE SHOW

HIGHLIGHTS:

412-13-15371-AD_7.5x10_v01mk_OL.indd 1 2/19/13 2:07 PM


Highland Commercial Bank Partners with Reworx and Nobis Works for

E-Recycle Event

Highland Commercial Bank, Marietta, and Reworx (a division of Nobis Works)

teamed up to recycle electronic items for Cobb County residents. In a five-hour period, 165 units, or approximately 5,795 pounds were gathered. This event helped divert electronic equipment from landfills, and helped Nobis Works provide jobs for people with disabilities and other barriers to employment. Highland Commercial Bank thanks everyone who contributed to this event and looks forward to providing this service again in the near future.

Employees from Highland Commercial Bank, Marietta, at the successful E-recycle event.

Century Bank of Georgia Partners with Agencies to Donate $5,000 to Bartow and Gordon Counties Recovery Efforts

Century Bank of Georgia, Cartersville, partnered with United Way and American

Red Cross to donate $5,000 to the recovery efforts for those in need following the tornado in Bartow and Gordon Counties.

"We live in a great community that supports each other especially during times of need,” said David Caswell, Century Bank of Georgia President and COO. "Century Bank of Georgia wanted to give back to two of the communities that have supported us over the years during this time of recovery,” said Caswell.

The partnership of Century Bank of Georgia and the American Red Cross of Northwest aided community residents and businesses in raising $32,000. Those wanting to assist can donate to the recovery account of their choice by visiting any Century Bank of Georgia location.

Your next strategic move...CBA Compliance Program

Contact [email protected] for more information.

Membership Benefits:One complimentary registration to attend quarterly classes across the state • Extensive manuals • Newsletters • Toll-free resource hotline • CPE credits • Discount pricing to

attend other CBA compliance seminars/schools • Networking with Georgia community bank compliance professionals

125+

CRIcpa.com | blog.cricpa.com

financial institution clients

ALABAMA | FLORIDA | GEORGIA | KENTUCKYLOUISIANA | MISSISSIPPI | TENNESSEE | TEXAS

provides simplified solutions to your bank’s audit and tax needs. We believe in the highest level of service delivered by experienced auditors. Our planning sessions and timely request lists improve our efficiencies and service levels. And we consider that a clear formula for success.

CRI

In February, members of the Community Bankers Association’s Leadership Division (LD) toured

the Hughes Spalding facility, part of the Children’s Healthcare Organization.

Each year, the CBA’s LD raises funds for Children’s Healthcare benefiting many facets of the organization. Touring the facilities is just one way to see how the funds are making an amazing difference in the lives of children all over the state. "Hughes Spalding is a place that certainly speaks to our mission-based work,” said Lucy Klausner, Senior Development Officer for Children’s Healthcare. "The work we do for the surrounding community is invaluable; and, we could not do this work without generous funders like you and your Association.”

If you would like to donate to Children’s Healthcare through the CBA, please email Peake Wilson at [email protected].

Pictured from left to right are: Clell Deaver, Atlantic Capital Bank, Atlanta; Peake Wilson, Community Bankers Association; and, Katherine Kay, Georgia Commerce Bank, Atlanta.

Leadership Division Tours Children’s Healthcare

Community Banking Company of Fitzgerald Raises Over $3,700 For Children’s Healthcare

A special Thank you goes out to J. Corey Gibbs, President & CEO of Community Banking Company

of Fitzgerald, the bank and the Fitzgerald community for raising over $3,700 in February for Children’s Healthcare. The CBA Leadership Division’s 2013 fundraising goal for Children’s Healthcare is

$30,000, and Corey, along with his friends, neighbors and customers, certainly proved

the goal can be reached.

If you are hosting a fundraising event and would like to share your stories, please contact Peake Wilson.Contact [email protected] for more information.


Georgia’s community bankers are taking the lead in communities across the state with financial literacy

programs aimed at small children, high school students, adults, and senior citizens.

As April approaches, the Leadership Division of the Community Bankers Association of Georgia (CBA) wants to help our members help their communities. Financial Literacy Month provides numerous opportunities to reach out to schools, youth groups, senior centers, and other organizations, to promote wise money management.

For the month of April, the CBA invites you to arrange presentations to organizations in your community. Keep the CBA informed and let us know what you are doing for your community! The Association will collect data on: 1) how many financial literacy presentations your bank is making; 2) the type of groups involved (Boy Scouts, seniors, schools, church, etc.); and, 3) how many people (both youth through age 17 and adult) are being reached by your bank.

Each year, the CBA has used the number of overall economic education contacts reported by each division as a primary criteria in the selection of the Leadership Division of the Year, and in naming an individual banker as the Leadership

Division Representative of the Year. The winners are announced at the CBA’s Leadership Division Convention & Mini-Trade Show.

The goal of the CBA Leadership Division is to end Financial Literacy Month with a news article about the success of the financial literacy outreach in April. For questions or more information, please contact Peake Wilson at (770) 541-0379 or [email protected].

Following are a few financial literacy resources which can also be found under the “Resources/Financial Literacy” tab of the CBA website, www.cbaofga.com:

• Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. “Money Smart”: www.fdic.gov/consumers/consumer/moneysmart

• Federal Trade Commission “Money Matters”: www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/moneymatters

• Independent Community Bankers of America: www.icba.practicalmoneyskills.com

• Georgia Council for Economic Education: www.gcee.org

• Jump$tart Coalition: www.jumpstart.org/jump$tart-clearinghouse.html

• Junior Achievement: www.ja.org

• National Endowment for Financial Education: www.nefe.org

• EverFi: www.everfi.com

April Is Financial Literacy Month

If you need it to run a community bank, we’ve got it!

So you’re like a community banker’s Swiss Army knife?

Grow your bank with us.

www.icba.org

Money Smart Week® is a public awareness campaign designed to help consumers better

manage their personal finances. This is achieved through the collaboration and coordinated effort of hundreds of organizations across multiple states including businesses, financial institutions, schools, libraries, not-for-profits, government agencies and the media. These groups come together once a year to stress the importance of financial literacy, inform consumers about where they can get help and provide free educational seminars and activities throughout the week. Programming is offered to all demographics and income levels and covers all facets of personal finance from establishing a budget to first time home buying to estate planning.

What is a Money Smart Partner? A Money Smart partner is an organization that has registered on the website and actively participates in Money Smart. Organizations are considered partners upon agreeing to one or more of the following:

• Provide educational materials, instructors, or a seminar for consumers

• Provide facilities to host events, sponsor events or promotional materials

• Leverage resources to publicly support or endorse Money Smart Week

To learn more about becoming a partner, please visit www.moneysmartweek.org.


If you need it to run a community bank, we’ve got it!

So you’re like a community banker’s Swiss Army knife?

Grow your bank with us.

www.icba.org


Affordable, Professional Training, When and Where You Choose!

APRIL 2013

4/2 Conducting Bank Business on Personal Mobile Devices: Impact & Risks

4/4 ACH Rules Update 2013

4/9 Updated Guidelines for OREO

4/10 SAFE Act: Tracking, Renewing & Compliance

4/11 Compliance Rules the Front Line Must Know

4/15 Escrow Rule Changes for High-Priced Mortgages: Deadline June 1, 2013

4/16 UDAAP: Civil Money Penalties & Examiners' Findings on Unfair, Deceptive, or Abusive Acts or Practices

4/18 Maximizing Recoveries on Charged-Off Loans

4/23 The Agricultural Economic Landscape: Interpreting the Indicators

4/24 Mobile Remote Deposit: Why, How & Best Practices

4/25 Notary Essentials & Legalities for Community Banks

4/30 HR Danger Zones: Regulations, Requirements & Best Practices to Keep You Out of Trouble

MAY 2013

5/2 CFPB Guidance on Handling Consumer Complaints & Inquiries

5/3 How to Properly Complete & File Financing Statements: Including UCC Article 9 Rule Changes Effective July 1, 2013

5/7 The ALLL for Directors

5/8 Endorsement Decisions: Authority & Liability for Consumer & Business Checks

5/9 FFIEC Guidance on Cloud Computing: Considerations for Community Banks

5/14 Line-by-Line Loan Review Consumer, Commercial & Residential

5/15 Vendor Compliance Issues: Risk Management, Contracts & Accounting

5/16 Legally Handling ATM & Debit Card Claims Under Regulation E

5/21 Real Estate Valuation: Beyond the Basics

5/23 Achieing a Successful IT Exam

5/29 Handling ACH Origination Exception Issues 5/30 When is an Item Payable? Stop Payments, Return Items & More

JuNE 2013

6/4 Compliance Rules Lenders Must Know

6/6 Real Estate Loan Workouts, Foreclosures, Short Sales & Deficiency Judgments

6/11 Collecting Decedents’ Accounts

6/13 Call Report Preparation: RC-R Risk-Based Capital

6/18 Accepting Powers-of- Attorney on Deposit Accounts

6/19 Regulatory Issues & Update for the Credit Analyst

6/20 Ability to Repay Part 1 - New Rules that Impact Your Policies & Products: Deadline January 10, 2014

6/25 Detecting Counterfeit Items & Fradulent ID for the Frontline

6/27 Bank Opportunities with Small Businesses: Growing Deposits, Loans & Fee Income

The CBA recognizes your schedule may not always allow you to leave your office to participate in a face-

to-face program. One way to help you with this challenge is to participate in one or more of the over 100 webinars offered by the CBA each year! The webinars cover a variety of topics designed for the frontline to the board room! Industry experts from across the nation with long-term, real-life, hands-on experience are selected to lead the webinars. For those who cannot attend the "live” broadcast, a web link training option

is available to access at your convenience. The web link consists of a recording of the live broadcast along with

speaker handouts. The web link is available for six months from the date of the webinar and may be shared with other employees at no additional fee. Plus, a complimentary CD Rom is included. Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits

are available to participants. To learn more about the topics being offered in 2013 and the

various training options, please visit the CBA website or contact the CBA Education Department.

RegisteR today!

2013 CBA WEBINARS

Note: Dates/Topics subject to change.

Bottom Line“It has saved our bank numerous times.”

In the early ‘80s, Mr. Heitkamp and ValueBank Texas were looking for a network partner that understood the needs of a community bank. PULSE was the perfect fit. Over the years, ValueBank has utilized many of our innovative products and services to help them grow. When it comes to fraud detection, they rely on DebitProtect®. It provides early warnings on fraudulent card activity, which has helped them significantly reduce their fraud losses. That’s good for ValueBank’s bottom line.

“If you’re not using DebitProtect, you better take a good look at it.” To take a good look at DebitProtect and hear what else Mr. Heitkamp had to say, go to:pulsenetwork.com/debitprotect-cba©

2013

PU

LSE


Bottom Line“It has saved our bank numerous times.”

In the early ‘80s, Mr. Heitkamp and ValueBank Texas were looking for a network partner that understood the needs of a community bank. PULSE was the perfect fit. Over the years, ValueBank has utilized many of our innovative products and services to help them grow. When it comes to fraud detection, they rely on DebitProtect®. It provides early warnings on fraudulent card activity, which has helped them significantly reduce their fraud losses. That’s good for ValueBank’s bottom line.

“If you’re not using DebitProtect, you better take a good look at it.” To take a good look at DebitProtect and hear what else Mr. Heitkamp had to say, go to:pulsenetwork.com/debitprotect-cba©

2013

PU

LSE

Influence Your future!Join more than a thousand community bank colleagues from across the nation at ICBA’s 2013 Washington Policy Summit.

You will engage with your Members in Congress, influence important issues of public policy and hear firsthand from the nation’s top banking and financial leaders. The time is here. The time is now. register today. Wednesday, April 24 – thursday, April 25Omni Shoreham Hotel, Washington, DC For more details and to register visit: www.icba.org/WPS13

Guest Speakerrep. Jeb Hensarling (R-TX)Chairman, House Financial Services Committee

Guest Speaker (invited)Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH)Chairman, Financial Institutions and Consumer Protection Subcommittee, Senate Banking Committee

ICBA Policy Summit Ad.indd 3 2/8/13 3:03 PM

f your goal is to target top decision makers in Georgia’s community banking industry, you

will find the CBA offers numerous advertising and sponsorship opportunities throughout the year.

Advertising in the Georgia Communities First magazine, CBA Today eNewsletter, Georgia Financial Directory, or

on the CBA website will keep your name in front of bankers on a regular basis.

Sponsorships at the CBA offer a world of benefits including recognition before, during and after a CBA event. Combine advertising and sponsorships to enjoy even greater savings!

For more information, contact Lindsay Greene at [email protected].

I Love My

Community Bank Is Back

Allows Customers to Share

Their Love of Their Banks

The ICBA’s annual "I Luv My Community Bank” campaign has returned. This national marketing and communications campaign celebrates the love that customers have for their community banks. The campaign will run in conjunction with Community Banking Month in April. Testimonials and submissions from consumers will be accepted at www.iluvmycommunitybank.com and on the ICBA Facebook page from now until April 12. The top 10 testimonial finalists will be chosen by a panel of judges and announced on ICBA’s Facebook page on April 15, where bankers and consumers will be able to vote for their favorite through April 30. The top five winners, chosen by Facebook votes, will be announced on May 1 and they will receive one of five $500 gift cards, courtesy of ICBA.

Influence Your future!Join more than a thousand community bank colleagues from across the nation at ICBA’s 2013 Washington Policy Summit.

You will engage with your Members in Congress, influence important issues of public policy and hear firsthand from the nation’s top banking and financial leaders. The time is here. The time is now. register today. Wednesday, April 24 – thursday, April 25Omni Shoreham Hotel, Washington, DC For more details and to register visit: www.icba.org/WPS13

Guest Speakerrep. Jeb Hensarling (R-TX)Chairman, House Financial Services Committee

Guest Speaker (invited)Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH)Chairman, Financial Institutions and Consumer Protection Subcommittee, Senate Banking Committee

ICBA Policy Summit Ad.indd 3 2/8/13 3:03 PM

Leadership, experience, technology, innovation, strength, and satisfaction…these are the expectations of our correspondent banking clients. As one of the leading correspondent banks in the country, we are uniquely qualified to deliver on these expectations. We understand this business inside and out. We know where it’s been, and where it’s going. Let us put our expertise to work for your bank today.

1-800-644-3330 • bbvacompass.com/correspondent

Cory Burdette • VP - Senior Correspondent Officer - 678.230.9299

T. Ray Sandefur • SVP - Credit Services

Michael Burnap • SVP - Customer Service

Bob Freeman • EVP - Correspondent Banking

Specializing in Correspondent Banking yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

All loans and accounts subject to approval, including credit approval. BBVA Compass is a trade name of Compass Bank, a member of the BBVA Group. Compass Bank, Member FDIC.


April is Community Banking Month; and, the Community Bankers Association of Georgia (CBA)

and community banks across Georgia are recognizing the unique spirit that makes community banks the foundation of their communities in cities and towns throughout the state. Annually, community bankers across the country have come together during this month to inform the public of the important economic and social contribution their banks make in their hometowns. Governor Nathan Deal recently proclaimed April 2013 as Community Banking Month in Georgia.

"The 220 community banks in Georgia are passionately committed to serving their customers and their communities," said Dan Oliver, President & CEO, Vinings Bank, Smyrna, and 2012-2013 Chairman of the CBA. "They spend countless hours and provide invaluable resources throughout the year to make their communities a better place to live and work. Community Banking Month gives the CBA and its community bank members across the state a chance to thank their customers and celebrate the communities they so proudly serve."

"Community banks are an integral part of the economic, financial and civic fabric of hundreds of towns and cities in Georgia,” commented Carolyn Brown, President & CEO of CBA. "Community banks continue to work hard every day to improve the quality of life in their communities because they are part of their community — a uniqueness only community banks can bring to the table. We appreciate Governor Deal taking the time to meet with representatives from the CBA to recognize the significant impact community banks are making across Georgia.”

Governor Nathan Deal Proclaims April as Community Banking Month

(Left to right) Charlie Watts, CBA Lobbyist; Steve Bridges, CBA Executive Director of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs; Joe Gore, President & CEO, First State Bank, Wrens, CBA Board Member; Dale Morris, President & CEO, First National Bank of Coffee County, Douglas, CBA Vice Chairman; Governor Nathan Deal; Dan Oliver, President & CEO, Vinings Bank, Smyrna, CBA Chairman; Carolyn Brown, CBA President & CEO; Charlie Curry, President & CEO, First State Bank of Randolph County, Cuthbert, CBA Chairman-Elect; and, Ed Cooney, President & CEO, Affinity Bank, Atlanta, CBA Treasurer.

Free Community Banking Month Materials

Now AvailableAgain this year, the CBA is offering FREE promotional items, which are available for download at www.cbaofga.com.

• Press release for member banks to distribute to local media• Signed proclamation from Governor Nathan Deal declaring April 2013 Community Banking Month• Community Banking Month promotional ideas• Community Banking Month employee fact sheet

Let us know how your bank plans to celebrate Community Banking Month with your customers and in your community. Post on our Facebook page or Linkedin group page. Contact Lindsay Greene at (770) 541-0376 or [email protected].


Don’t Miss These Educational & Networking Opportunities!

Tuesday, May 7, 2013The Ritz Carlton Lodge

1 Lake Oconee Trail | Greensboro, Georgia 30642(706) 467 - 0600

Sign up today! For too long, the role of the Chairman of the Board of a financial institution has generally

been undefined. This Summit will help answer those questions. This NEW program is an open forum dialog discussion among bank Chairmen from across the state. This format allows an opportunity for you to pick up techniques and trends used by other Chairmen to lead their organizations.

The Chairman's Summit will be facilitated by Philip K. Smith of the legal and consulting firm Gerrish McCreary Smith. Jeff Gerrish, Chairman of the Board of Gerrish McCreary Smith Consultants, LLC will also speak at the Summit.

For more information and to register, visit www.cbaofga.com or contact the CBA Education Department at [email protected]. Please note the deadline to receive the CBA discounted hotel room rate is Friday, April 19, 2013, or until the room block is full. We encourage you to make your hotel

reservations as soon as possible. We look forward to seeing you at the beautiful Ritz-Carlton Lodge at Reynolds Plantation!

The Southeast Bank Chairman's Summit

It’s back! The CBA is pleased to announce the only marketing conference designed specifically for community banks will be held October 3 & 4, 2013, at Lake Lanier Islands.

Digital Marketing | Social Media| Mini-Expo | Branding | Loan Growth |Media Relations |

Much More!

Community Bank Marketing Conference

October 3 & 4

For more information, contact Lindsay Greene at [email protected] or (770) 541-0376.

Boot CamPCREDIT RISK

May 1 | May 8 | May 15 | May 22

Register Today!

Weekly Webinar Series


This education and networking luncheon forum is designed specifically for community bank Special

Assets Professionals.

Having an experienced, capable Special Asset Professional to manage and oversee the bank's special assets and to stay current on industry standards and best practices is extremely important during these challenging times.

One way to stay abreast of industry standards and best practices is to network with other Asset Servicing

Professionals. GRASP is designed to promote networking opportunities and offer additional benefits to CBA members involved in the origination, perfection and servicing of collateralized assets, loss mitigation and special assets. GRASP is chaired by M. Todd Westfall, Esq. of Howick, Westfall, McBryan & Kaplan, LLP. The CBA invites you to register today for one or all of the remaining forums. To learn more about the guest speakers and topics, visit www.cbaofga.com or contact the CBA Education Department at [email protected].

Thursday, May 16, Thursday, August 15, and Thursday, November 14, 2013*

Maggiano's Little Italy at Cumberland Mall, Atlanta

* Dates and location subject to change.


ServisFirst Correspondent Banking.Our name is our mission statement.

Richard LaneServisFirst Bank Senior Vice President Correspondent Banking 478.733.0756 [email protected]

B I R M I N G H A M • D O T H A N • H U N T S V I L L E • M O N T G O M E R Y • P E N S A C O L A

Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender

205.949.0302 www.servisfirstbank.com

www.servisfirstbank.com | Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

COATED78c58m

The CBA, in partnership with Ray Stanford of SIO Law Group, offers the Southeast Financial Workplace

Law & Compliance Program (WPLC) in conjunction with the Southeastern Financial Consortium (“SEFICON”). This popular program is designed for financial human resource (HR) professionals and others with responsibility for the workplace.

2013 will continue to be a year of regulatory action with new layers of workplace requirements for community banks. The CBA believes this program provides a useful business advantage for community banks at a time when questions demand prompt, appropriate, and accurate answers.

On May 16 in Macon and May 23 in Atlanta, the Southeast Financial Workplace Law & Compliance Program presents a one-day workshop entitled "The Administration’s 2013 Agenda for the US Workplace."

The workshop speakers will discuss the Executive branches new legal mandates in the context of traditional HR functions: staffing, compensating,

managing, separating, and administering a workforce.

Please SAVE THE DATES for the 2013 forums, workshops and annual conference and make plans now to attend these events. The CBA also invites you to become a member of this cost-saving program and to take advantage of sending one person complimentary to the

2013 programs. To learn more about how to become a member and to register for the forums, workshops and conference, please contact Jodi Swilley at [email protected] or Donna Coutant at [email protected] or visit www.cbaofga.com.

Southeast Financial Workplace Law & Compliance Program“Noon-Time” Webinar Forums Plus Two Workshops and One Annual Conference Planned in 2013

2013 Southeast Financial Workplace Law & Compliance Program Schedule

“Noon-Time” Webinars:

February 26, March 26, April 23, June 25, July 23, August 27, October 22, November 26, December 17

“Face-to-Face” Workshops:

Workshop I: Thursday, May 16-Brickyard at Riverside, Macon;

Thursday, May 23-SIO Law Group, Atlanta

Workshop II: Thursday, December 5, Idle Hour Club, Macon

Thursday, December 12, SIO Law Group, Atlanta

Annual Conference

Thursday-Friday, September 26-27, Atlanta


The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) recently released final rules for High Price Mortgage

Loans (HPML) Escrows and Restrictions; Ability to Repay/Qualified Mortgages; Appraisals for HPMLs, and Mortgage Servicing. The CBA in partnership with our compliance provider, Professional Bank Services (PBS), is pleased to announce training plans to cover the details of these changes.

During April & May, senior consultants from PBS will hold two-day training seminars across the state in five convenient cities. The CBA invites you to register today for this one-of-a-kind program designed specifically for community bankers.

The CBA also encourages you to renew your CBA Compliance Program membership prior to April 2013 in order for you to send one person complimentary to one of these two-day programs and to the 3rd and 4th quarter compliance programs. The 3rd and 4th quarter

compliance programs will be held in September and December in five cities. The 3rd Quarter topic is “The Bank Secrecy Act (BSA)” and the 4th Quarter topic is “Georgia Deposit Documentation.” To learn all about the many benefits of this cost-saving program and to become a member, visit www.cbaofga.com or contact the CBA Education Department at [email protected].

April & May Compliance Program to Cover Recent CFPB Mortgage Final RulesTwo-Day Program Held in Five Convenient Locations Across the State

April & May Compliance Program Schedule

Monday-Tuesday, April 22-23 - Rome

Tuesday-Wednesday, April 23-24 - Duluth

Wednesday-Thursday, April 24-25 - Brunswick

Tuesday-Wednesday, May 14-15 - Albany

Wednesday-Thursday, May 15-16 - Macon

Is your bank hosting a fun event or honoring someone in your community? Send us your news and you could be featured in a future issue of

Georgia Communities First magazine!


The CBA is proud to present the Lifetime Service Award to bankers who have devoted 30 or more years of service to the banking industry and who have been heavily involved in their community. The Association is extremely grateful to these individuals who have served as a role model to the banking community. Honoring them is a small token of CBA’s appreciation for their efforts to the banking industry.

As part of the recognition, honorees receive a commemorative plaque, and the CBA will feature the honorees in various CBA publications, as well as the local media. Honorees with 50 or more years of service receive a customized gold pin.

If you or someone in your bank is celebrating 30 or more years of service, please let the CBA know in order for us to recognize you and /or your staff at future events and in our publications by August 1, 2013. Email Peake Wilson at [email protected] for more information.

Lifetime Service Awards

Commercial Lending School (4 ½ days)Monday-Friday, March 11-15, 2013The Julian Hester Training Center

at CBA Headquarters, Atlanta

The Southeast Bank Security Management Conference (2 days)

Tuesday-Wednesday, March 26-27, 2013The Westin Buckhead, Atlanta

The Southeast Bank Chairman’s SummitTuesday, May 7, 2013

The Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Greensboro

Consumer Lending School (4 ½ days)Monday-Friday, May 13-17, 2013The Julian Hester Training Center

at CBA Headquarters, Atlanta

The BSA Officer School (3 days)Tuesday-Wednesday, May 21-23, 2013

The Julian Hester Training Center at CBA Headquarters, Atlanta

CBA's 2013 Schools & Conferences

Note: Dates and locations are subject to change. Additional schools and conferences may be added to the 2013 calendar. For the most current listing, visit www.cbaofga.com or contact the CBA Education Department at [email protected].

The Subchapter S Corporation Conference Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Bryan Cave Law Office, Atlanta

Advanced BSA Officer School (3 ½ days)Tuesday-Friday, July 30- August 2, 2013The King & Prince Golf & Beach Resort,

St. Simons Island

4th Annual Bank Directors’ CollegeTuesday, August 14, 2014

4th Annual Southeast Financial Workplace Law & Compliance Conference

Thursday-Friday, September 26-27, 2013-Atlanta

Information Technology Security Conference (1 1/2 days)Thursday - Friday, October 10-11, 2013

Savannah, GA

8th Annual Compliance School Monday-Thursday, October 21-24, 2013

Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa, Young Harris


Providing credit and risk management

solutions to hundreds of community banks

across the country

sageworksanalyst.com

866-603-7029

Thanks to You - CBA Education Foundation is Fully Funded

Special thanks to Pat Blanchard, Vice Chairman, First Bank of Georgia, Augusta, and CBA of Georgia Education Foundation Chairman as well as all who contributed to the CBA Education Foundation.

Through the Julian & Jan Hester Memorial Scholarship Program, the Association has been awarding at least four $1,000 scholarships annually to deserving Georgia high school students since the Scholarship Program was started in 1991.

"Reaching this aggressive goal of $360,000 to fully fund the Education Foundation means the Scholarship Program will be completely self-sufficient, giving support to generations of Georgia’s students in the future,” commented Carolyn Brown, President and CEO of the CBA. "Julian and Jan Hester exemplified involvement in their community and it is rewarding to know we can continue to honor their memory. We are extremely appreciative of Pat’s efforts over the years as Chair of the Education Foundation and to all of the banks and organizations who supported this lasting tribute.”

T h e J u l i a n & J a n H e s t e r M e m o r i a l S c h o l a r s h i p , p r e s e n t e d b y C o m m u n i t y B a n k e r s A s s o c i a t i o n o f G e o r g i a , i s y o u r b a n k ’ s o p p o r t u n i t y f o r F R E E p u b l i c i t y . T h i s s c h o l a r s h i p i s o f f e r e d t o G e o r g i a h i g h s c h o o l s e n i o r s p l a n n i n g o n e n t e r i n g a G e o r g i a c o l l e g e , u n i v e r s i t y o r t w o - y e a r o r m o r e t e c h n i c a l s c h o o l i n t h e f a l l s e m e s t e r o f 2 0 1 3 .

T h e J . S t e v e n W a l r a v e n Scholarsh ip i s des igned for fu l l - t ime communi ty bank employees cont inu ing t h e i r e d u c a t i o n a t a G e o r g i a c o l l e g e o r u n i v e r s i t y .

T h e d e a d l i n e f o r a l l b a n k s t o s u b m i t t h e i r a p p l i c a t i o n s t o C B A i s A p r i l 1 2 , 2 0 1 3 .

f o r C B A ’ s M e m o r i a l S c h o l a r s h i p s

Contact Lindsay Greene ([email protected]) for more information on either of these scholarships or visit www.cbaofga.com.

Deadline Approaching

A L O S T A R B A N K . C O M

MEMBER FD IC

Stacy Brantley

SVP, Morris Bank

Dublin, GA

A L O S T A R B A N K . C O M

Here’s what can happen when a bank has the right tools for the job.

Warner Robins Supply Company, a 65-year-old building materials retailer in Georgia, sought to position the company for strategic growth, but needed capital. Dublin, Georgia-based Morris Bank knew that with AloStar Bank by their side, capital was a tool they had in the tool box. At AloStar, we say we strengthen the banks and build the businesses that grow America. In the case of Morris Bank and Warner Robins Supply, we did both. It simply came down to having the right tools for the job.

Meet more bus inesses A loSta r i s g rowing th rough the i r 10-week cha l l enge a t

10 DEALS IN 10 WEEKS.COM

8 6 6 . 2 1 9 . 9 0 3 5


The lines between in-store commerce, eCommerce and mobile commerce are blurring. In short, consumers are embracing the vision of Universal Commerce, or the new economic environment where

increased information and access to sophisticated technology are transforming today’s commerce.

The byproduct of Universal Commerce is the ability to seamlessly blend and coordinate payments across online, offline and mobile channels. For consumers, this means a seamless payment experience on any device, at any time.

Financial institutions (FIs) not only engage directly with consumers who purchase and use their financial services, they engage with small businesses to offer services and merchant-branded payment products. To remain competitive, they need to adapt but also work to enable the commerce strategies

of their small business customers. FIs recognize that customers seek an experience that fits their individual needs and works seamlessly across channels. Creating a uniform, integrated experience incorporating in-person, online, mobile and electronic banking and payments can translate into the type of customer loyalty that all Georgia banks are looking to secure.

These strategies should revolve around small businesses, their customers and protecting the security of both.

EVOLVING BANKING STRATEGIES IN THE AGE OF UNIVERSAL COMMERCE

Small BusinessesFIs must economically and efficiently capitalize on the potential of processing for small businesses. For institutions that don’t already offer a small business services program, the time is now to begin identifying viable options. Banks in particular have an opportunity to actively participate in the payment side of Universal Commerce and integrate their own service offerings into solutions for business customers.

Catering to Small Business CustomersIn today’s banking and payments landscapes, non-cash payments are a significant component of most businesses’ receivables. As a result, FIs would be best served offering small business customers a full range of products, including e-commerce and mobile commerce solutions. Mobile technology in particular can give any FI an edge over its competitors and increase customer loyalty.

Data Security FIs should consider what a smart card implementation might mean to businesses and look into options for issuing new chip-based credit and debit cards to their customers. Specifically, implementing technologies like chip-based security can protect transactions for both physical cards and virtual wallets. Tokenization strategies have also gained popularity in recent years. Taking a layered approach to fraud and security offers the most effective consumer protection.

Looking ForwardUniversal Commerce now provides the FI community with opportunities to assert themselves in the Georgia marketplace. Improved small business customer services will yield higher productivity with other bank lines. Banks can obtain market share with merchant acquiring services, building loyalty and driving revenue in the process.

Neal Korzekwinski Senior Vice President of Strategic Partner Sales and ManagementFirst DataA CBA Associate Member


Over the last several years many banks have been forced to focus on addressing loan problems and increased regulatory requirements. Consequently, they haven’t been able to focus on reducing

operating costs, improving workflows, and technology utilization for better operational performance. In order to compete, community banks need to cut costs and be able to operate more efficiently so their staff can focus on enhancing their customer service and grow the bank without adding staff.

Every community bank has opportunities for improved operational efficiency and potential for reduced operating expenses. In many cases the bank already has access to technology that can automate or streamline some of their workflows without substantial cost. Outside experts can provide the bank fresh insight on opportunities to improve operational workflows, suggest updated technology that will improve operational performance, and assist with evaluating and negotiating with existing or new vendors for improved pricing.

In most cases, banks are able to maintain their existing processing vendor relationships, but may change some of their operational processes and implement some newer technology at the time their contracts are professionally renegotiated. It’s not uncommon to see banks decide to use the newly negotiated cost

IT’S TIME FOR IMPROVED EFFICIENCY AND REDUCED OPERATING COSTS!

savings to adopt new technology, like mobile banking or eStatements, which may not have been previously affordable. A few banks have decided to scrap their old technology environment and implement newer, integrated solutions and actually spend less money in their new environment than they would have with their older, less efficient processing platforms.

Often bank executives don’t know the intricacies of data processing fee structures and competitive pricing in the processing vendor space. Sometimes ¼ or ½ of a cent on line items being charged by vendors can have thousands of dollars of impact over the life of a processing contract. When all of the processing services a bank utilizes are professionally negotiated, the overall impact can be tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in savings a year! Recently, community banks ranging from $85 to $500 million in size have

saved between $40,000 and $200,000 a year as the result of BankSmart’s services – and those savings carry on every year throughout the term of their new contracts. If your processing agreements expire within 24 months, hiring an experienced, professional consultant with a combination of real life community banking experience, professional and productive relationships with processing vendors, and a strong knowledge of vendor capabilities and competitive pricing can be - as one banker put it

- “transformational” for your bank.

Jim WilksonPresidentBankSmartA CBA Endorsed Member Company


Banks and other financial service firms are embracing Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), as it allows senior executives and employees to use for work and pleasure the mobile devices, service

providers and operating platforms of their choice.

While BYOD programs can increase productivity, they can also present challenges to maintaining control over corporate data. Banks using or evaluating a BYOD plan should consider security issues and industry regulations such as Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS) or GLBA, which could affect how employees may use their devices.

Your IT department should assess the interoperability of the various devices that may be used by employees to ensure they can send and receive data without any negative impact to the corporate network. IT should know which types of phones support the virtual private network (VPN) specifications required for a secure connection. IT, or your mobile device management company, should understand the security requirements for the devices and their operating systems, as well as which applications are secure and approved for access on the devices. When personally owned computers connect to the company network either inside the office or through

HOW BANKS CAN SAFELY EMBRACE BRING YOUR OWN DEVICE

a VPN, users bypass security systems that protect the network from outside threats. If an employee connects her personally owned device that has malware on it to the corporate network, that malware could migrate to the network. This is because network protections are typically configured to focus on preventing access from external computers and pay no attention to the traffic between two computers already inside the network.

Banks should never allow a personally owned device (mobile phone, laptop, tablet) or any USB stick to connect to a USB port on a company computer or to a company network cable or connect through the VPN or any wireless channel. If there is malware on any of those devices, it could infect the company network.

However, BYOD can work safely. Virtual systems can be deployed, allowing employees to interact on their

personally owned computers with corporate applications and data without being directly connected to the company network.

To address the countless regulations, c o n f i g u r a t i o n s , compliance risks and chose a BYOD program that would best suit your organization, it’s

wise to work with an information security specialist. For more info, visit www.secureworks.com/1/CBAGA.

Dale Gonzales,Product StrategistDell SecureWorksA CBA Endorsed Member Company


Practically speaking, a plan of reorganization may contain virtually anything. Under a plan, a debtor may attempt to discharge debt, value collateral or even establish findings of fact that normally require a trial. This is

so because the confirmation procedure calls for a debtor to propose a plan, and leaves it in the creditors’ hands to object. If the creditor does not object, the creditor may be bound to all of the terms of the plan.

The Bankruptcy Code allows a plan of reorganization to have a broad effect on creditor claims. “The provisions of a confirmed plan bind the debtor and each creditor, whether or not the claim of such creditor is provided for by the plan, and whether or not such creditor has objected to, has accepted, or has rejected the plan.”1

Orders of confirmation of a Chapter 13 bankruptcy plan are considered final judgments. The binding effect of a confirmed plan extends to any issue litigated among the parties and to any issue that was necessarily determined by a bankruptcy court in deciding to confirm the plan.

Some courts will limit the effect of confirmation of the plan, and will not allow a debtor to accomplish through plan confirmation something that would otherwise contradict the Bankruptcy Code or violate due process rights2. However, other courts will only revoke a confirmation order once it is entered for fraud, and hold that failure to object to the plan is the equivalent of acceptance of the plan3. In the Eleventh Circuit, a plan of reorganization will be binding, even if it contains provisions that do not comply with the Bankruptcy Code.4

There is a strong bias in the Bankruptcy Courts to enforce confirmation orders if a creditor had notice

PLANS THAT BIND

of a plan’s terms and failed to object. Any issues contained in a plan that may conceivably impact a creditor’s rights must be addressed before the plan is confirmed. Afterwards, it may be too late.

111 U.S.C. § 1327(a).

2In re Bethoney, 384 B.R. 24 (Bankr. D. Mass. 2008).

3In re Szostek, 886 F.2d 1405 (3d Cir. 1989).

4Universal Am. Mortgage Co. v. Bateman (In re Bateman), 331 F.3d 821, 822 (11th Cir. 2003) (indicating that a secured creditor, who has failed to object to the plan or to appeal from it, cannot collaterally attack a confirmed plan even though it may not comply with the mandatory provisions of the Code).

Vania Smith AllenAssociateMacey, Wilensky, Kessler & Hennings, LLCA CBA Associate Member

Watch for CBA's 2013 Georgia Financial Directory!All CBA members receive one complimentary copy.

Official Publication of the Community Bankers Association of Georgia

Order your copy today! Additional copies are $45 for members;

$75 for non-members


ACG | Currency Counting Program Phil Winn | [email protected] | (770) 442-9800

Banc Consulting Partners | Executive Benefits/BOLIBrian Miller | [email protected] | (770) 485-8559

banc-serv Partners, LLC | SBA Loans, Packaging, Sales & ServicingBrad Crawford | [email protected] | (317) 664-5247

BankersEdge | Online /DVD Training ProgramNora Ebersbach | [email protected] | (314) 542-6493

BankSmart | Bank Operations/Vendor ManagementJim Wilkson | [email protected] | (813) 774-8000

Computer Services, Inc. | Web@Work Portal for Directors/EmployeesBill Evers | [email protected] | (800) 545-4274 ext. 19224

Corporation Service Company | UCC/Lien SearchesCeila Corradin | [email protected] | (800) 927-9801 ext. 3439

CRS Data | CRS Data Banker Suite Real Estate InfoDave Russell | [email protected] | (865) 584-8017

Dell SecureWorks | Managed Internet SecurityJamie Kirkland | [email protected] | (404) 486-4481

The Eversole Group, LLC | Marketing ProgramCraig Eversole | [email protected] | (601) 977-5225

Executive Insurance Agency, Inc. | VSI ProgramRandy Sower | [email protected] | (770) 474-2355

First Data | Internet Banking & Mobile BankingMike Amerson | [email protected] | (865)288-7259

FIS | Free ATM Network | Credit/Debit Card ProgramSteven Roberts | [email protected] | (770) 209-8484

ICBA Securities | Quality Investment ProductsJim Reber | [email protected] | (901) 762-5884

Harland Clarke | Check Program/Financial SolutionsRyan Busenitz | [email protected] | (787) 923-3402

IMPACT Financial Services | Overdraft Privilege ProgramBob Flowers, Jr. | [email protected] | (770) 477-9452

PULSE | Debit Network ProgramMark Reda|[email protected] | (800) 854-2210

Sageworks | Cash Flow AnalysisJessica Ballard| [email protected] | (866) 603-7029 ext. 602

SHAZAM | Debit Card/EFT ProcessingMark Fucci | [email protected] | (866) 644-9314

SNL Financial | Financial Industry DataJulie Jones| [email protected] | (434) 951-4419

Southwest Financial Services, Ltd. | Flood Determination Insurance & Appraisal ManagementStephanie Bennett | [email protected] | (513) 621-6699

Staples | Office Supply ProgramJason Warholak | [email protected] | (404) 664-4543

TransFirst | Merchant Services ProcessingDonna Burns | [email protected] | (731) 772-1425

Travelers | D & O/Institutions Bond ProgramDiana Baker | [email protected] | (678) 317-7882

Triad Financial Services, Inc. | Consumer Loan ProgramKeith Stayer | [email protected] | (800) 522-2013

UPS | Overnight Delivery ProgramBrooke Carter | [email protected] | (404) 699-6503

VINtek, Inc. | Electronic Lien & Title (ELT)Robert Christini |[email protected] | (215) 599-2435

William Mills Agency | Public Relations FirmWilliam Mills | [email protected]/(678) 781-7200

When it’s time to research new service providers or rethink current ones, your first call should be to the CBA of Georgia. Each of the Endorsed Member Companies below has already earned the seal of approval from the CBA members. Many offer special pricing to CBA members. Explore the revenue-enhancement opportunities with these vendors and improve your bottom line!

IT ALL ADDS UPCBA Endorsed Member Companies

Superior Products … Significant Discounts

Give us a call at (770) 541-4490 or (800) 648-8215 or visit CBA online at www.cbaofga.com.

1900 The Exchange, Suite 600Atlanta, GA 30339www.cbaofga.com

freedom of choice

Choose an EFT Network Invested in YouWhile some would like community financial institutions to have fewer choices and less control,

SHAZAM believes that community financial institutions must remain in control of their own futures.

SHAZAM is owned and operated by community financial institutions. We understand who you are and what you believe in. We’re here for you, providing the cost-effective technology that makes you more effective.

You do have a choice in EFT networks. Choose the only EFT network invested in your success.

www.shazam.net (800) 537-5427

Documents

Georgia Communities First Magazine - Spring 2013