by: Valeria Anderson-Boudaka, ICBA National Director, Famers State Bank of Canton, Canton, SD

Hello to the great community bankers of South Dakota! It was great to catch up with so many of you at the ICBSD Retreat this summer. As always, it was an amazing event put on by Megan and Hannah.

We were lucky enough to have Brad Bolton, ICBA Immediate Past Chairman and President of Community Spirit Bank from Red Bay, Alabama join us. What an inspiring man he is! In addition to getting an update on ICBA advocacy, Brad stressed the importance of keeping our association’s independence. Brad told us about how the Community Bankers Association of Alabama merged with the Alabama Bankers Association over ten years ago. Brad told us the many ways about how this changed the organization. The most noticeable change was that small, independent banks lost their voice. He reminded us to protect our board, especially the leadership seats of our board. I’m so thankful we have strong bankers guiding the ICBSD. I know that Josh, Jodi, Michael, and Brian will be nurturing our independence through the governance of our association.

After hearing Brad talk about how his bankers association lost the family touch that was at the Community Bankers Association of Alabama, I made sure to notice and appreciate the family atmosphere at our retreat. I know a lot of our banks are run this way as well- family first. That is what sets us apart from the large banks and help us retain team members. Adam Carolla simply said it best, “If you want to have a good life, you should focus on your family, on your business, on your dog, on your fun, and you’ll have a good life.”