12 MAY / JUNE 2019 can have the best idea in the world, but if you can’t capitalize it and convert it from a good idea into positive action, then you’re not going to get traction. “Equally important, IBA members are oftentimes the pillars of communities, no matter how small or large that community is. To have banker presence on local boards – sharing their expertise, and applying their intellect and experience – those things are making Indiana go. “I am profusely appreciative. Alex Haley said, ‘Find the good and praise it.’ I’m here to praise the good that the Indiana Bankers Association membership is doing on a dayin-and-day-out basis.” Last December you announced the Next Level Trails program, providing for hiking, biking and riding trails throughout the state. Why are you promoting this initiative? “This is another example of responding to the people that we serve. There was a pentup desire to improve quality of life in terms of connecting with the outdoors. Trails were organically popping up all over the state, but they were dots and lines in a hodgepodge. Looking at a map, you would wonder, Continued on page 14. A capacity crowd attended the 2019 Indiana State of the State address in January. down, and the needle exchange program is working. “Looking at this holistically, we’re also seeing other numbers recede. For infant mortality, we still have a ways to go, but the trajectory is bending down. It’s because of some measures we’ve put in place to help educate targeted ZIP codes around the state. “In terms of modernizing and being transparent in the way state government interacts with businesses and people, we’re continuing to make progress. We’re providing great government service for exceptional taxpayer value. “I’m proud of what we’re doing and the team we have in place. The team is the frontline, implementing these plans that are informed by the very people we serve.” How can the Indiana banking community be of assistance with the Next Level Agenda? “Bankers already are helping. Just last year the Indiana Bankers Association and membership throughout the state provided assistance to the Indiana Economic Development Corporation to update legislation regarding the Capital Access Program. “That was a big step forward because, for small businesses, that funding is the fuel they need. You Gov. and Mrs. Holcomb pose with “First Dog” Henry, a seven-yearold miniature schnauzer. Henry can be followed on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @FirstDogHenry.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTg3NDExNQ==