Pub. 7 2018 Issue 2

The CommunityBanker 6 Chairman’s Message M E S S A G E A Win is a Win By Lyn Hayth VACB Chairman Bank of Botetourt I am sure by now most of you have celebrated and thanked your representatives - those whom had the fortitude - for voting in favor of the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief and Consumer Protection Act, and given a fresh review of the benefits your bank will enjoy with the passage of S. 2155. As Rebeca Romero Rainey, ICBA President & CEO, said, “This landmark law … is the culmination of comprehensive efforts by ICBA and community bankers to advance our Plan for Prosperity polices.” I would add that the passage of S. 2155 was assisted by the tireless efforts by both our association and Steve Yeakel, our President. Steve has spent an enor- mous amount of time and effort supporting these efforts, especially with both Senator War- ner and Senator Kaine, both co-sponsors of S. 2155. In addition, I cannot thank our VACB Board and member banks enough for their tireless efforts and legislative visits, sometimes on very short notice. As Rainey noted, “the need for common-sense regulations is not finished.” We will take the “win” a victory to celebrate no doubt, but we have more to accomplish before we can see a better banking landscape. Should I mention Credit Unions? How about “Too Big to Fail” as opposed to “Too Small to Matter”? One size does not fit all, but our regulators sometimes seem to have just one playbook. However, there is encouragement with the current and planned transitions at the head of bank regulatory agencies. I would also draw special attention to the current VACB offerings as to educational and training opportunities that continue to bring value to our member banks. We are in the process of offering the next playbooks in the series of Performance University programs, in addition to the Essentials of Banking sessions and the upcoming Summer Compliance Confer- ence. I would be remiss if I did not recognize and mention the VACB Endorsed Providers and our Associate members as well. Banking is about relationships, not only with our customers but also with our providers. Let the VACB motto, “One Mission, Community Banking” be part of your strategy. To quote Babe Ruth, “Yesterday’s home runs don’t win today’s games.” So keep up the good fight! Finally, please mark your calendar for this year’s Annual Convention and Trade Show, October 14 -16, at Hotel Roanoke. Our convention will feature an exciting lineup of strong speakers, programs and activities that you will find of great benefit while enjoying your visit to the Star City. I’m certainly excited about the changes and challenges that lay ahead of us in community banking here in Virginia and am confident that the VACB will continue to work and to posi- tion itself to be a staunch advocate for change and enhancement for its member banks. “The secret to winning is constant, consistent management.” —Tom Landry