HB HOOSIER BANKER MAGAZINE indiana.bank PLUS! Legislative Session Midway Recap MARCH / APRIL 2021 Community Banking In the age of COVID-19
Honor the shining stars of banking in your community by nominating the leaders, past and present, who have helped lead your institution to excellence. This prestigious distinction, IBA’s highest honor, celebrates exceptional bankers throughout Indiana’s history who have left their mark in Please consider the current and past presidents, CEOs, directors and others who have played an integral part in the success of your institution at the local level, as well as in the Indiana banking community. Now through April 30, 2021, the Indiana Bankers Association is accepting nominations for the 2021 CLASS of the IBA Leaders in Banking Excellence. For more information about the annual IBA Leaders in Banking Excellence awards and nomination process, please contact Rod Lasley at the IBA, 317-387-9380, rlasley@indiana.bank BankingCommunity Service Civic Involvement
DIRECTORS & STAFF HOOSIER BANKER MAGAZINE indiana.bank IBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Officers Michael S. Zahn, Chairman ...............................................First Federal Savings Bank, Huntington Garry D. Kleer, First Vice Chairman.............................................................. First Bank Richmond Jamie R. Shinabarger, Second Vice Chairman..........Springs Valley Bank & Trust Company, Jasper Lucas White, Immediate Past Chairman...........................The Fountain Trust Company, Covington Amber R. Van Til, President and CEO............................Indiana Bankers Association, Indianapolis Constituent Directors Michael K. Bauer, ABA Membership Council. ................................ WesBanco Bank, Wheeling, WV Michael H. Head, ICBA State Director. ................................First Federal Savings Bank, Evansville John Corbin, Non-Indiana Headquartered Bank Director .Huntington National Bank, Columbus, OH Emily Boardman, Future Leadership Division President......................... Crossroads Bank, Wabash At-Large and Regional Directors David M. Findlay, At-Large ......................................................................Lake City Bank, Warsaw Kent A. Liechty, At-Large ...............................................................................First Bank of Berne Benjamin J. Bochnowski, North Region ....................................................Peoples Bank, Munster Joseph D. Carlson, North Region..........................................Community State Bank, Royal Center Jeffrey W. Gump, North Region ........................................... Farmers and Merchants Bank, Laotto Jessica Carroll, South Region ............................... The New Washington State Bank, Charlestown Gregory Inman, South Region.......................................Scottsburg Building and Loan Association John M. Kennedy, South Region ...................................................... Greenfield Banking Company IBA FUTURE LEADERSHIP DIVISION ADVISORY BOARD Emily Boardman, President……............................................................. Crossroads Bank, Wabash Jon-Myckle D. Price, Vice President............................Security Federal Savings Bank, Logansport Greg Barnes Jr........................................................................................ STAR Bank, Fort Wayne Michael J. Clampitt.................................................................................North Salem State Bank Jason L. Ernst......................................................................................Terre Haute Savings Bank Gavin Fisher ............................................................... Community First Bank of Indiana, Kokomo Nashelle Frazier. ............................................................................... Fifth Third Bank, Cincinnati Brock C. Goggins........................................................................ German American Bank, Jasper Kyle Goodwin............................................................................................... DeMotte State Bank Christopher Griffith ........................................................................ First Harrison Bank, Corydon Ryan Hart ...............................................................................................Lake City Bank, Warsaw Zach Hockersmith...................................................Hoosier Heartland State Bank, Crawfordsville Heather Lucas .........................................................................The National Bank of Indianapolis Amanda Morris-Feldman ...................................................First Federal Savings Bank, Rochester Billy Winter...................................................................................Bippus State Bank, Huntington Melodie K. Yarnell ......................................................................Jackson County Bank, Seymour IBA STAFF Amber R. Van Til ........................................................................................... President and CEO Paul W. Freeman, CAE .......................................................................... Executive Vice President Rod Lasley ............................................ Executive Vice President-Operations & Member Services Dax Denton ............................................................Senior Vice President - Government Relations Eric J. Augustus ...............................................................Vice President - Government Relations Christina M. Bennett, CMP ....................................................Vice President - Meetings & Events Laurie A. Rees ...................................................................Vice President - Education & Training Laura Wilson ........................................................................... Vice President - Communications Josh Myers ........................................................Assistant Vice President - Member Engagement Emily Brooks ..............................................................................Member Engagement Specialist Lizzie Ketzenberger .............................................Executive & Government Relations Coordinator Susan Clark ......................................................................Events & Products/Services Assistant Marcy Borden, CMP ....................................................................Education Meeting Coordinator Elizabeth DeHaven ......................................................................Education Meeting Coordinator Timothy Fry .....................................................................................................Staff Accountant Tracy Kubly ................................................................................................Technology Manager MISSION: To advocate for and sustain an environment in which banks can succeed. VISION: To provide exemplary service to members as the premier state bank trade association in the country. VALUES: In fulfilling our mission, we will: n Maintain the highest ethics, integrity and respect for others; n Serve with professionalism, innovation and resourcefulness; n Instill passion, positive attitude and enthusiasm; n Remain mindful that the success of the IBA is judged by the success of its members. Publisher: Amber R. Van Til Editor: Laura Wilson Advertising: Rod Lasley Design/Print: The Westcott Group Inc. Submissions: HB@indiana.bank Advertising: Media kits are available at indiana.bank. Advertising is reserved for members and associate members of the Indiana Bankers Association. Deadlines: Editorial and ad space reservations are due the first of the month preceding publication. Subscriptions: Subscriptions are provided free of charge to members and associate members of the Indiana Bankers Association. About: The flagship publication of the Indiana Bankers Association, Hoosier Banker is distributed to all banks and thrifts headquartered in Indiana, IBA- member banks headquartered out-of-state and IBA associate members. Publication Disclaimer Hoosier Banker (ISSN 0018 473X) is published bimonthly by the IBA Service Corp., a subsidiary of IBA Holding Company Inc., that is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Indiana Bankers Association. Material published in Hoosier Banker and on the IBA website is the property of the IBA. All rights reserved. Contact IBA Email IBA staff using first name initial and last name, plus “@indiana.bank” – example: jdoe@indiana.bank Indiana Bankers Association 8425 Woodfield Crossing Blvd., Suite 155E Indianapolis IN 46240-7321 317-387-9380 Vol. 105 No. 2
Hoosier Banker 5 CONTENTS 10 COVER STORY Community Banking in the Age of COVID-19 20 ARTICLE SPOTLIGHT Midway Recap of the 2021 Legislative Session Dax Denton and Eric Augustus, IBA FEATURES 6 Vantage Viewpoint Amber R. Van Til, IBA 7 Chairman’s Report Michael S. Zahn, First Federal Savings Bank 9 IBA Calendar of Events 34 State Deposits in Indiana Financial Institutions 48 COVID-19 Turns 1 Robert S. Nichols, ABA 52 Community Banks Rebeca Romero Rainey, ICBA FLD FOCUS 22 Put the Spotlight on Leadership Josh Myers, IBA INDIANA BANK & THRIFT STOCK UPDATE 24 Stock Analysis Michael A. Renninger, Renninger & Associates LLC AG BANKING 26 Midwest Agricultural Banking School 2020 Brady Brewer, Purdue University PSP SHOWCASE 28 2021 Indiana Housing Community Fund Keith Broadnax, Cinnaire Corporation HUMAN RESOURCES 30 Teleworking and Travel Time Debra A. Mastrian, SmithAmundsen LLC IBA INSURANCE SOLUTIONS 32 ATM Loss Alert! Chuck Maggard, IBA Insurance Solutions DIRECTORS / SENIOR MANAGEMENT 36 Forbearance Expiry Expectations Andrea F. Pringle, The Baker Group 44 Liquidity Strategies Greyson E. Tuck, Gerrish Smith Tuck PC 46 How Are Banking Strategies Evolving? Shane Ferrell, CSI COMPLIANCE CONNECTION 38 Investing in a CEDC Brett J. Ashton, Krieg DeVault LLP PRODUCTS & SERVICES PROFILE 40 Flood Zone Determination Rod Lasley, IBA FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT 42 FedNow: The Future of U.S. Payments? Shane Bauer, Bankers' Bank CLOSING NOTE 58 IBA Board Review Emily Boardman, Crossroads Bank DEPARTMENTS 21 From the Board Room 25 Taking It Easy 33 Honorable Mentions 41 Anniversary Milestone 49 In Memory of 49 Banking on Community 50 Associate Members’ Corner 53 Bankers on the Move 57 IBA Staff Milestones 57 Banking Center News 57 Advertisers Index 10 20 22 In This Issue Banks navigate COVID-19 as essential businesses. Midway Recap 2021 Legislative Session
6 MARCH / APRIL 2021 Is it “new normal” yet? We toss around that phrase as if we can predict what it means and when it will begin. It’s tempting to hope that the new normal will look like the “old” normal. Probably, though, the new normal will be more of a hybrid. Some businesses are examining how they might be more efficient, cost-effective and attractive to new hires if they continue to offer a degree of the work-from-home flexibility that has now become familiar. Medical offices may be promoting more online consultations, schools may consider hybrid options, houses of worship may blend online services with in-person gatherings – all options are open for discussion. We have the encouragement of vaccines leading us to the new normal, though the target date for herd immunity keeps jumping around. We’re grateful that at least it’s on the horizon. For now, let’s stop for a moment and consider how much we’ve all been through. This March represents the one-year anniversary of living with COVID-19 in the United States. Anniversaries are generally either celebrated, when the triggering event is joyful, or instead commemorated, when the anniversary marks a sad occurrence. In this case, we can use the familiar word “hybrid,” because beyond the sad memories of the past year, there’s a dose of happiness, too. This past year we lived through unthinkable circumstances, demonstrating once again that the Indiana banking community is strong, resilient and committed to the betterment of others. In this issue of Hoosier Banker, we have devoted our cover story to banking in the age of COVID-19, offering samples from member banks about how they creatively managed to stay connected with customers and communities throughout the pandemic. Whether through major initiatives or small gestures, the emphasis was on nurturing relationships. The key to banking is relationships, after all. Whether in-person or through digital/socially distanced means, community banks provide financial services to their customers by fostering close relationships and actively engaging in their communities. Community banks are community helpers, continually assessing local needs and assisting through donation of time, talent and treasure. Being relationship-based is woven into the fabric of community banking, because community bank customers are more than clients to bank associates – they are neighbors, friends and members of the same community. Within Indiana, there are more than 30,000 banking professionals serving their fellow Hoosiers from 2,000+ branches and offices across the state. Efforts made in the past year by the member banks of the Indiana Bankers Association include working long hours to process Paycheck Protection Program loans on behalf of businesses. In our state, not VANTAGE VIEWPOINT Don’t Miss Out! only did banks help bring nearly $10 billion in support to Hoosier small businesses in 2020, but this year through Feb. 28, Indiana banks have assisted in securing more than 34,000 loans totaling $2,567,058,549 in funding. As we move forward with a new normal for PPP loans, there are some changes from last year, as the Biden-Harris Administration endeavors to increase lending and promote equitable access to relief. We’ve been communicating with you regarding details of these changes and will continue to do so as new developments take place. In the meantime, as the vaccine rollout continues, it will become easier for you to meet with clients to help them with their many banking needs. It also will become easier for the IBA to resume the in-person activities that we all enjoy and benefit from. The first in-person event on our calendar is the IBA Annual Washington Trip, scheduled for July 18-20. Yes, we’re going to D.C., and there will be much to talk about. Because we have a new administration, new regulators and new lawmakers, your voice is needed now more than ever. Please plan to join us as we advocate for the industry. There’s more to come, too, with the events shown in the Don't Miss Out box below, plus the Mega Conference, Oct. 11-13, and the Banking on Women Conference, Nov. 3-4. Please check out our online calendar at indiana.bank/calendar for updates about additional events and opportunities. Your IBA staff is eager to see you again, in person, as we navigate the new normal together. HB Amber R. Van Til President and CEO Indiana Bankers Association avantil@indiana.bank @grbanker Annual Washington Trip July 18-20 Join the chorus and make your voice heard on industry issues at our nation’s capital. Annual Convention Aug. 15-17 Bank leaders convene, connect and conduct IBA business in scenic French Lick. FLD Leadership Conference Sept. 21-22 Emerging leaders build skills and strengthen networks at this premier FLD event. For event updates, visit: indiana.bank/calendar
Hoosier Banker 7 Just as we begin to think that certain banking challenges are going away, it feels like they’re simply morphing into a new set of issues. While we all looked forward to leaving the problems of 2020 behind, there are plenty of new concerns in 2021 to attract our attention. Legislatively, 2021 is turning into another interesting year. As of this writing, we’re at the halfway point of Indiana’s legislative session, and we’ve seen some surprisingly fast developments. In Indiana this is a budget year, meaning that it’s a long legislative session instead of short. This year’s agenda also includes the issue of redistricting, always a complicated topic. Plus this year’s session is taking place during a pandemic, adding more complications. There is good news, though, and we have seen positive developments in Indiana. By the close of the midway point of session, Gov. Eric Holcomb had already signed into law two bills of importance to the Indiana banking community. One bill that he signed was HEA 1056, Recording Requirements, a priority of the Indiana Bankers Association. This bill fixes the second-witness requirement to record instruments that arose from the interpretation of a language change in SEA 340 from 2020. Additionally, it retroactively applies to all instruments recorded after July 1, 2020. It’s extremely rare for legislation to be passed and signed into law this early in session. Notably, HEA 1056 was drafted as an emergency declaration, so it became Indiana law on Feb. 18, the day it was signed. Usually, new legislation does not take effect until July 1 of the year signed. The second bill that Gov. Holcomb recently signed into law was SEA 1, Civil Immunity Related to COVID-19. The IBA, along with other business trades and entities, advocated in support of this bill. SEA 1 provides welcomed protection against COVID-19-related lawsuits and, like HEA 1056, became law on Feb. 18, the day it was signed. These are encouraging developments, but our work is not done yet. The pandemic makes grassroots advocacy all the more critical this legislative year. Consider for a moment how the IBA Government Relations Team – Dax Denton and Eric Augustus – normally conduct business in downtown Indianapolis. During most years, they spend countless hours indoors at the Statehouse, waiting for or meeting with legislators for sit-down talks or hallway conversations. This year, however, social distancing measures make this form of in-person connection all but impossible. The dilemma is that advocacy is highly reliant on relationship-building, much easier done in person than remotely. This is where the banking community can help. Think about who you may know in the Indiana legislature – neighbors, business contacts, acquaintances from your children’s school events – who you could volunteer to be in touch with as needed. Legislators appreciate helpful insights, especially from known and trusted sources. Even if you don’t personally know legislators, your grassroots engagement is still impactful. Every message sent to lawmakers is tallied, whether by email, phone or traditional mail, so voicing industry opinion makes a difference. Please be on the lookout for IBA action alerts as we continue through the rest of session, as your input may be needed. IBA VoterVoice at indiana.bank/votervoice is a useful tool, and the weekly IBA Insighter e-newsletter conveniently summarizes current topics. Of course, we also look to the national level, and your help is needed there, too. We have good news this year, because we’re resuming the IBA Annual Washington Trip in July. That event is a powerful opportunity to meet with the policymakers who directly impact the business of banking. There will always be new topics and issues to deal with, but we also have a strong community of engaged bankers who are part of the solution. Thank you for all you do. HB CHAIRMAN’S REPORT Centier Bank • @CentierBank • Feb. 3 Centier associates in Mishawaka made a donation to @ CallieCares, a South Bend-based nonprofit which delivers care packages to families with sick children in the hospital. Find out more about the good work they do at http://facebook.com/ CallieCares #commUNITYbanking #SouthBend Riddell National Bank • @RiddellNatlBank • Jan. 26 @UnitedWay success by 6. Real men read. This morning CEO Steve Kidwell read “The Gruffalo” to Ms. Moore’s Staunton Elementary kindergarten class via Zoom. @indianabankers #communitybanks @UWWV @ICBA 1st Source Bank • @1stSourceBank • Dec. 26 As a thank you for their tireless work, several teams within the 1st Source family came together to donate gift cards and stainless steel coffee mugs to the Goshen Hospital emergency department! It’s wonderful to see our healthcare heroes honored and thanked this holiday season! First Harrison Bank • @FirstHarrison • Dec. 23 We recently took some of the donated items we collected in our 15 Days of Giving to Maple Manor and Sellersburg Health Center. Thanks to all those that donated to the effort! The Farmers Bank • @Mybankforlife • Dec. 17 The employees of TFB teamed up to make the Holidays special for kids in foster care. A group of Farmers Bank employees who recently attended an IBA Banking on Women Conference organized the event for the bank. Follow IBA Twitter @indianabankers NOTABLE QUOTES Bank Community Service on Twitter Michael S. Zahn Chairman Indiana Bankers Association President and CEO First Federal Savings Bank, Huntington
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Hoosier Banker 9 View full calendar and register online at indiana.bank/calendar, or click on the icons above in HB Digital. IBA Center for Professional Development | 8425 Woodfield Crossing Blvd., Suite 155E | Indianapolis, IN 46240 | 317-387-9380 ONLINE Build knowledge via webinars or on-demand. CLASSROOM Learn with peers in a classroom setting. SCHOOLS Deepen understanding through multi-day learning. EVENTS Experience a variety of IBA gatherings. CONFERENCES Convene and connect at signature IBA events. Calendar of Events CALENDAR UPDATE Outside Calling School April 7 HMDA Seminar April 8 FLD Virtual Day at the Statehouse April 9 Financial Analysis and Cash Flow Bootcamp April 13-15 Branch Management Series: Session 2 - Leading, Developing and Engaging the Team April 20 Essentials of Banking: Session 1 - Banking 101 April 21 Universal Banker Certification Program April 22-23 Retail Banking Forum May 4 BSA Officer Forum May 5 CBC Session 2 May 11, 12, 13 Tech Shop May 20 Security Officer Forum May 25 Senior Lender Forum June 2 • Group 1 June 3 • Group 2 BSA/AML Compliance School June 15-16 Emerging Leaders Digital Program June 16 Banking Essentials Session 2 June 17 • IBA Center CFO Forum June 17 • Group 1 June 18 • Group 2 Marketing Forum June 22 IT Forum June 23 • Group 1 June 24 • Group 2 Auditing Reg E June 29 Branch Manager Forum July 13 Leadership Development Program - Session 1 July 13-15 Emerging Leaders Digital Program July 14 Cannabis Banking July 14 Annual Washington Trip July 18-20 HR Forum July 20 Training Director Forum July 21 Risk Management Forum July 22 Consumer Lending School July 27-28 Construction Loans Administration and Monitoring Aug. 3 CRE Appraisal Review and Interpretation Aug. 4 Stepping Up to Supervisor Aug. 5 Annual Convention Aug. 15-17 Leadership Development Program - Session 2 Aug. 24-26 Commercial Lending School Aug. 23-27 Advanced Agricultural Lending Conference Sept. 14-15 CBC Lending Compliance School Sept. 14-17 FLD Leadership Conference Sept. 21-22 Cybersecurity Conference Sept. 29-30 Mega Conference Oct. 11-13 Banking on Women Conference Nov. 3-4 Midwest Ag Banking School Nov. 29-Dec. 2 NOTE: For the latest information about IBA event dates, locations and format, please visit: indiana.bank/calendar
10 MARCH / APRIL 2021 COVER STORY Banking In the age of COVID-19 The month of March marks an anniversary to commemorate. It was in March 2020 that businesses, schools, houses of worship and other spaces/places shut down. What was initially to be a two-week hiatus has now stretched into a full year of various degrees of closure and social distancing, as the world learned to live with COVID-19. Through it all, banks have continued to function as essential businesses. While 12 months ago all banks in Indiana closed their lobbies to foot traffic – still serving visitors by appointment – today the banking landscape reflects an array of responses to the pandemic. Whether lobbies are open or closed, however, there are common threads among all banks. They all serve clients through a number of options, including drive-thru, digital tools and other forms of alternative delivery, and they all remain committed to the customers and communities they serve. This issue of Hoosier Banker salutes the Indiana banking community for implementing creative solutions to stay connected with customers despite social distancing. Whether through major initiatives or small acts of kindness, Indiana banks continue to make their customers feel valued and appreciated. Following are some examples of community banking in the age of COVID-19. 1st Source Bank, South Bend, initiated curbside banking to lessen wait time in drive-up lanes. A staff member approaches a waiting vehicle, gathers information and documents, directs the client to a designated parking spot, and goes into the banking center to begin the transaction. The associate then returns to the client in the parking area to complete the transaction. Other connecting efforts include: a customer appreciation week at a branch known for its popcorn days, with staff bringing packaged popcorn and gummy bears to clients in drive-up lanes; holiday home delivery of poinsettias and cards to clients; serving drive-up customers with umbrella in hand on a rainy day to speed up wait time; personalized service through car-side meetings; and hundreds of personalized letters, cards and treats sent to customers throughout the year. Alliance Bank, Francesville, engaged in a number of client appreciation activities. An outdoor event last August, organized by a bank intern, featured giveaway bags of bank swag, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes; additionally, coolers filled with ice cream treats and bottled water provided refreshments. The first visitor to arrive at the event was a loyal customer who has been with the bank for 65 years. Other year-round offerings have included: socially distanced prize giveaways; gift boxes of blankets, mugs, coasters and beverages/popcorn to new homeowners; and the creation of customized digital banking tip videos to offer step-bystep electronic banking guidance. Bank of America, Chicago, created a Client Assistance Program to provide options for customers facing financial challenges, either An associate of 1st Source Bank prepares to hand-deliver holiday goods to a customer. Alliance Bank created a series of digital banking videos featuring Rhonda Hull, electronic banking administrator. To view the playlist, click on the photo in HB Digital or visit “Alliance Bank Digital Banking Tips” at youtube.com.
Hoosier Banker 11 with personal accounts or businesses. Each customer in the program works individually with a banker to develop solutions. Concerns addressed include loans, credit cards and cash flow issues that may involve fee waivers, deferrals/postponements of payments, and loans or lines of credit. Additionally, the bank has put risk-management measures in place, such as opening financial centers 10 minutes early to accommodate the elderly or those with disabilities requiring special accommodations. Bank of America also addressed community needs above the $250 million it provides annually in philanthropic commitments through measures including: an additional $100 million commitment to local communities to purchase medical supplies, food and other priorities; pledging $250 million in capital and $10 million in philanthropic grants to community development financial institutions to help support low- and moderate-income communities; and the donation of more than 40,000 face masks, hand sanitizer and gloves to not-forprofit partners that serve low- to moderate- income families. Bath State Bank transformed its popular Santa Day into a socially distanced event during the holiday season. A total of 83 vehicles stopped at the bank on Dec. 4 for a twohour, non-contact Santa Day. Approximately 500 luminaries lit up the area as numerous happy faces stopped to see Santa, receive a homemade sugar cookie and jumbo candy cane, and grab a sack of reindeer feed and a bank ornament. Santa received 101 letters during the drive-thru event. Centier Bank, Merrillville, has been helping clients at Hellenic Assisted Living Facility, Elkhart, by having associates travel to the location to assist with banking needs. The bank also assembled goody bags to give out at the holidays. Additionally, Centier Bank engaged in community events including: helping with the Education Virtual Walk/ Run event in Mishawaka last October; hosting a drive-in winter wonderland park for children and families of Chasing Dreams Inc., as well as children and grandchildren of bank associates; converting its “Centier to You” financial education series to a virtual format; engaging followers of Facebook in threads of support for area restaurants and other businesses; and providing registration assistance at a Michiana vaccination event. Citizens State Bank, New Castle, initiated quarterly mini client appreciation days to give simple tokens of gratitude to customers. For Valentine’s Day, staff passed out cards and chocolate kisses. Each branch was given a supply to distribute at their discretion. One branch, for example, wrapped the kisses in goody bags with bank “We Appreciate You” stickers, while other branches used drive-up tubes to distribute the treats. Currently, these quarterly mini events replace each market’s annual customer appreciation days to adapt to pandemic circumstances. Community First Bank of Indiana, Kokomo, made customers feel special last Halloween season with socially distanced trick or treat bags in branches. The bank also launched an online library of free financial education resources, created additional website resources for online/mobile bankBath State Bank upheld its longstanding Santa Day tradition in drive-thru format. Pictured with Santa is Michelle Brier. Twelve associates of Centier Bank volunteered at a vaccine event in January to help register recipients for inoculation. Shown are Amber Pulford (left) and Katlin Gaffron. Curbside banking signs at Citizens Bank, Mooresville, instruct customers on how to receive service in the comfort of their vehicles. Behind a protective partition, Mandi Sexton of Citizens State Bank, New Castle, hands out a valentine. Citizens Bank, Mooresville, used curbside banking to ease the processing of longer financial transactions that are less conducive to drive-thru, with the benefit of bringing banking to customers in the comfort and safety of their own vehicles. To implement, the bank created signs specifying where to park for curbside service. Each sign lists a branch-specific phone number for the customer to call. A staff member answering the call talks with the customer to determine the customer’s identity and what sort of service is needed, then goes to the car to assist.
12 MARCH / APRIL 2021 ing, purchased gift cards from business customers to give away to new checking account customers, made donations and sent handwritten thank you cards to each local nonprofit that entrusted the bank to process their Paycheck Protection Program loans, and hosted a drive-thru community shred day. First Bank Richmond provided COVID-19 relief resources to customers, including: curbside service for transactions such as loan closings, change orders and opening new accounts; advanced technology with the addition of ATMs that accept cash/check deposits and provide higher withdrawal limits and detailed receipts; fee waivers on NSF and overdrafts between March and September 2020, as well as some ATM fee waivers; deferred payments for several loan customers and high approval rate for borrowers requesting assistance; social media contests to promote local agencies and eateries, along with donations and gift card purchases; support of local restaurants by purchasing lunches for employees; and signage at all locations in support of health care and first responders. First Federal Savings Bank, Evansville, adopted a valet banking service that allows customers to enjoy face-to-face banking experiences from the safety and convenience of their driver’s seats. Rather than having to set appointments, the customer simply drives to the bank, parks and calls the phone number on the sign to be greeted outside by a banking representative. Signs display a #BFF hashtag, incorporating part of the bank logo with a Banking Friend Forever theme. Additionally, during the holiday season, bank staff helped spread cheer by hand-delivering greeting cards and baked goods to customers and local businesses. First Federal Savings Bank, Huntington, engaged with clients in several ways including: sending more than 200 boxes of homemade candies from a local small business to customers for the holidays; providing employees with weekly lunches from restaurant clients; and hosting a “swipe to win” contest in January to give one individual and one commercial customer an opportunity to receive $500. Additionally, in 2020 the bank funded 360 applications for Paycheck Protection Program loans, totaling over $40.5 million. First Federal continues to support community initiatives, such as donating $10,000 to the Scholarship Granting Organization of Northeast Indiana to provide grants to children within the private education system in Huntington, as well as contributing $50,000 to Huntington, Allen and Kosciusko counties to provide aid for community-based organizations facing challenges because of COVID-19. First Financial Bank, Cincinnati, created a mortgage coach program to address social distancing challenges with the residential real estate market. Since the market has been active, buyers need to act quickly to get into the homes they want to purchase, making it important that their financing be ready to go. Social distancing has added an extra wrinkle to the traditional mortgage application process. To help buyers stay on track, First Financial Bank launched a digital coaching program, using software to help clients select a mortgage product to meet their financial needs. Instead of coming into a bank branch with printed documents in hand, homebuyers can submit documentation via a secure app, keeping the homebuying experience moving forward while maintaining social distancing. First Savings Bank, Jeffersonville, has remained committed to a customer relationship focus throughout the pandemic. Examples include: hosting summertime outdoor customer appreciation days, with tents set up with social distancing practices, masks, gloves and sanitizer for customers to safely walk through a line to choose a gift, register for a prize drawing (keeping the pen after touching) and grab a to-go lunch and dessert; handing out more than 2,000 hand sanitizers to customers in the drive-thru; providing lunch to 15 children in need during a second-wave shutdown at Undeterred by rain, staff of Community First Bank of Indiana greet customers and community members outdoors for a drive-thru shred event. In support of health care and first responders, First Bank Richmond displayed signage at all locations, plus provided signs to local businesses and customers upon request. Staff of First Federal Savings Bank, Evansville, are ready to provide valet banking services. Shown from left are Brittany Salmon, Mikayla Loveless, Andrea Hill, Mischell Ryder and Angela Russell. Amanda Stroup of First Federal Savings Bank, Huntington, presents a donation check to Orion McCormack of the United Way of Huntington County.
Hoosier Banker 13 the Clarksville Community School system; purchasing lunch from local restaurants every Friday for a month for branch office staff; helping process Paycheck Protection Program loans in 2020 to 642 customers, providing $180,569,250 in funding; and creating photo collages to send to customers and post on social media. The Friendship State Bank partnered with business neighbor SuperATV to reopen its eight bank offices with high-quality barrier shields in place. SuperATV, based in Madison, is a manufacturer of parts and accessories for all-terrain and utility vehicles. Upon the outbreak of COVID-19, the company shifted use of its equipment and expertise to crafting protective barrier shields. The Friendship State Bank purchased SuperATV shields for teller windows and offices at each of its locations in order to reopen lobbies safely last spring, along with implementing social distancing protocol, mask-wearing and diligent sanitation. Additionally, the bank has provided holiday treats, installed coin counting machines, hosted outdoor community events and helped clients navigate through the Paycheck Protection Program loan process. Garrett State Bank sponsored a drive-thru Santa event at Garrett Middle School on Dec. 11 from 9 a.m. to noon. Visitors were asked to remain in their vehicles and wear a mask for safety, and free photos and treats were available for all. One 5-year-old visitor commented that “it was the best day ever” because he got to see and talk with Santa Claus. Additionally, earlier in the year the bank showed support for graduating seniors from Garrett High School by teaming with a graphics company to print and distribute congratulatory yard signs. German American Bank, Jasper, created a colorful opportunity to connect with clients during a Customer Service Week recognition in October. Each team was asked to submit photos holding signs to “show some love” for customers, demonstrating their dedication to providing excellent service during unprecedented times. Photos were posted to the German American Facebook page throughout the week, with both team members and customers interacting and posting messages of encouragement. Home Bank, Martinsville, orchestrated a show of appreciation for teachers and others returning to school. Home Bank invited community members to post photos of their sneakers on social media with the hashtag #kickoffschoollife. More than a dozen individuals participated by posting colorful photos and giving kudos to teachers. Additionally, the bank remains engaged in community service in multiple formats, including helping to sponsor a fundraising Rally in the Valley virtual 5K run/walk for Stability First, an organization which empowers men and women to rise out of poverty, addiction and homelessness. A photo collage from the Marengo branch of First Savings Bank, Jeffersonville, features (clockwise, from top left) Whitney Gabhart, Rochelle Richardson, Amanda Asher, Tracy Byrd, Shelby Cecil and Amy Patton. Behind the safety of a SuperATV barrier, Faith Lafary of The Friendship State Bank prepares to greet customers at the Versailles branch. Santa and a visitor wave at a drive-thru event sponsored by Garrett State Bank. German American Bank team members create a message of caring during Customer Service Week. Shown from left are: Justin Reed, Madi Giesler, Leanna Graves, Martha Mitchell, Whittney Huff and Brittany Massey. Home Bank posted a Facebook photo of a red sneaker to “kick off” the #kickoffschoollife campaign honoring the return to school.
14 MARCH / APRIL 2021 Hoosier Heartland State Bank, Crawfordsville, developed a connection plan to call and talk with thousands of customers, beginning conversations with a simple greeting: “We care about you, and we are here for you. Is there anything that we can help you with?” Additionally, the bank remains connected with its customer base through curbside service for account openings and loan closings, including Paycheck Protection Program loans. HHSB also directed some of its community service to pandemic-related needs, such as food insecurity, mental and behavioral issues, and the financial needs of struggling nonprofits. Among other community efforts, the bank has formed a partnership with the Montgomery County Community Foundation. Horizon Bank, Michigan City, decorated branches indoors and out to welcome customers back after lobbies reopened, with photos of decorations posted on the bank’s Facebook page. The bank also coordinated delivery of meals, snacks and treats to show appreciation to law enforcement and to medical workers, in addition to other donations and assistance. At year-end 2020, Horizon Bank donated $5,000 to the food pantry of Sacred Heart Parish, LaPorte, which has served 315 households and 3,115 individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Huntington National Bank, Columbus, Ohio, has been supporting small business clients through multiple endeavors, including production of “small business drives America” videos. The video series highlights small businesses in a five-state area, with specialties ranging from selling surfboards to fresh flowers, to running food establishments, to providing construction services, aviation training and more. Videos showcase business owners telling the story of their ventures and demonstrating how they maintain safety protocol throughout the pandemic. Each video ends with a tagline statement to support the featured business “and local business everywhere.” An example of an Indiana-based video is Rosie’s Place restaurant/bakery in Carmel. Indiana Trust Wealth Management, Mishawaka, produced a video to share with clients and contacts, providing hope and thanking frontline workers for their courageous service in confronting COVID-19. The video has been circulated via e-blast, blog and social media, and also picked up by WNIT-TV in a series of public television spots. Indiana Trust also has been sponsoring local and regional nonprofit initiatives, with employees additionally making contributions and donating service. In December, Indiana Trust donated $50,000 to food banks in northern and central Indiana impacted by the pandemic, with funds split equally between the Food Bank of Northern Indiana, South Bend, and the Second Harvest Food Bank of East Central Indiana, Muncie. Jackson County Bank, Seymour, sponsored Not Every Hero Wears a Cape, a campaign through Schneck Medical Center bringing “bottomless” baskets of supplies – refilled whenever emptied – to local healthcare, police, fire, EMS and other frontline workers. JCB also partnered with the Schneck Foundation and donated matching funds on Giving Tuesday, helping to raise $121,000 for the purchase of sanitizing units for the hospital. Additionally, the bank made donations to local food pantries from Jeans Day fundraisers, raising more than $5,000 over six months. Hoosier Heartland State Bank staff members display items collected for “freedom box” care package items to send to troops. From left are: Sandy Webb, Kader Lillard, Kathy Addler, Chasity Surface and Blake Jasheway. Cheerful hearts and flowers create a welcome back message at the Wanatah branch of Horizon Bank. Debbi Bourgerie of Rosie’s Place explains in a Huntington National Bank video how her business safely provides a sense of community. To view, click on the photo in HB Digital or visit: huntington.com/ landing-pages/business-banking/support-local. INDIANA TRUST SALUTES THE UNSUNG HEROES IN THE BATTLE AGAINST COVID-19 An Indiana Trust Wealth Management video salutes unsung heroes in the battle against COVID-19. To view, click on the photo in HB Digital, or visit the company website at indtrust.com. Marvin Veatch, president/CEO of Jackson County Bank, displays signage for the Not Every Hero Wears a Cape campaign.
Hoosier Banker 15 Kentland Bank developed the Farmer’s Lunch Program for Harvest 2020 in appreciation of its farming customers and their hard work and dedication to feeding America and strengthening the agricultural industry. Bank staff assembled more than 100 bagged lunches for farm customers, their spouses and workers, then delivered the meals in Kentland Bank thermal lunch bags. Recipients had a choice of ham, turkey or roast beef sandwiches, along with toppings, cheese, condiments, bagged chips, fruit and water. Agricultural customers appreciated the food during busy harvest season, but the true value of the program was in the resulting conversation and comaraderie. Lake City Bank, Warsaw, joined Grace Village Retirement Community for its Giving Tuesday campaign in December by matching donations up to $2,500. In total, $9,700 was raised for Grace Village to help offset COVID-19-related costs such as: biweekly testing for staff; weekly testing for residents; and personal protective equipment for staff Selena Gregory (left) and Courtney Jones of Kentland Bank pack lunches for delivery to farm customers. Shown at the check presentation from Lake City Bank to Grace Village Retirement Community are (from left): Sondrea Berelli, Grace Village CFO; Nate Conley, Lake City Bank VP; Justin Kimbrell, Grace Village CEO; and David Findlay, Lake City Bank president and CEO. including N95 masks, face shields, goggles and gowns. Lake City Bank continually supports Grace Village, the only not-for-profit nursing care facility in Kosciusko County, through its branch located within the facility. Mutual Savings Bank, Franklin, made sure that customers could safely apply for Paycheck Protection Program loans by setting up outdoor tents for drive-up processing. Inclement weather did not deter staff – who wore hats and rain gear in addition to face masks – from meeting clients at their cars. Mutual Savings also demonstrated appreciation in celebration of its 130th anniversary with donations to local small businesses and nonprofits, such as United Way chapters and Boys & Girls Clubs, as well as distributing customer goody bags of lip balm, pens, mints and notebooks. Despite rainy, cold weather, staff of Mutual Savings Bank meet customers in the parking lot to assist them in applying for PPP loans. The National Bank of Indianapolis pivoted throughout the pandemic to stay connected with clients. The bank’s annual complimentary educational event for nonprofits went virtual, serving more organizations than would have been possible in person. The National Bank of Indianapolis also helped clients obtain more than 1,400 Paycheck Protection Program loans in 2020 and arranged for payment deferrals. During the holidays, bankers helped lift spirits by telephoning clients living in retirement homes, as well as those with little or no family contact. Managing the web of complex issues and regulatory constraints that surround banking today has never been more challenging. So the deep expertise of our banking team has never been more vital. Make life easier. Call us today. New Albany 812.945.2311 Louisville 502.423.0311 monroeshine.com CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS Audit & Assurance BSA & ACH Compliance Outsourced Internal Audit SEC & SOX Compliance Loan Review IT Risk Management Consulting Services Merger & Acquisition To brighten the holidays, The National Bank of Indianapolis sent poinsettias to clients’ homes and offices.
16 MARCH / APRIL 2021 The Napoleon State Bank created “hoteling” offices to meet in safe circumstances with customers when in-person meetings were needed. At each bank location, designated offices were set aside for employee meetings with customers. Though some employees were relocated to different spaces to implement the plan, the result was the ability to limit building exposure while focusing intense sanitizing procedures on the hoteling offices. The bank also used the parking lot and drive-thru for loan closings and transformed its annual customer appreciation food event to a customer appreciation giveaway, purchasing and giving away over $8,000 in gift certificates to local business customers. The New Washington State Bank, Charlestown provided community support through various efforts, including: assembling goody bags for local hospital staff to help boost morale; supporting the Borden/ Henryville School Systems with a monetary donation to provide Wi-Fi for students; organizing a canned food drive/contest among branches, collecting more than 5,500 canned goods and nonperishable items for a local food pantry; and gathering hygienic items, snacks and gently used purses from employees to benefit local homeless women. The bank also sponsored a therapy dog for students in the animal science pathway of the Public Service Academy at New Washington Middle/High School. Old National Bank, Evansville, launched a social media #EveryoneTogether campaign last June to recognize and celebrate small business success with Paycheck Protection Program loans. A number of businesses were featured, including two in Indiana: Mental Health America of Vanderburgh County and Edge Mentoring. The #EveryoneTogether hashtag also extended to racial justice messaging, and the series concluded in July with a post highlighting the efforts of Old National team members during the extraordinary year. Each post included a tagline: “Cultivate Good. Always.” Owen County State Bank, Spencer, produced and posted on Facebook a video that served both as a salute to drive-thru tellers and an opportunity to explain to customers how the bank has adapted to keep clients and staff safe throughout the pandemic. Several tellers from different branches were featured in the video, giving guidance regarding social distancing measures to keep customers safe, as well as the benefits of online banking. Peoples Bank, Munster, initiated You First Corner to inform and engage communities with personal finance tips and to support area small businesses. You First Banking Corner focuses on the personal side of banking, including how to maximize short-term growth or how to choose the right retirement account. You First Business Corner underscores the business side of finance and highlights topics addressing the importance of organization, establishing a checklist of necessities, and ways to set up oneself and one’s business for success. The Peoples State Bank, Ellettsville, donated $10,000 to the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County to benefit the newly created LEARN Fund, which helps ensure Monroe County families have the resources needed for children to learn effectively. The bank also donated $1,000 each to seven food assistance programs in local schools to help struggling assistance programs provide food for children experi- "Harold Cash" the therapy dog was sponsored by The New Washington State Bank for use at a local school. Students may earn certification as handlers to take Harold to visit other schools, nursing homes and health care facilities. Old National Bank ran a social media post about an area chapter of Mental Health America with a statement of appreciation: “Thank you, Mental Health of Vanderburgh County, for working to bring Everyone Together!” Tracy Snodgrass of the Ellettsville location of Owen County State Bank explains to customers how they are being safely served by bank personnel. To view the video, click on the photo in HB Digital or visit facebook.com/owencountystatebank. You First Corner, created by Peoples Bank, is featured biweekly on the bank’s Facebook and LinkedIn pages. To view a sample, click on the photo or visit facebook.comibankpeoples. Shown at the donation of The Peoples State Bank, Ellettsville, to the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County are Johnny Lindsey, bank president, and Tina Peterson, foundation president and CEO.
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