We Thank Thee

For flowers that bloom about our feet;
For tender grass, so fresh, so sweet;
For song of bird, and hum of bee;
For all things fair we hear or see,
Father in heaven, we thank Thee.
For blue of stream and blue of sky;
For pleasant shade of branches high;
For fragrant air and cooling breeze;
For beauty of the blooming trees,
Father in heaven, we thank Thee.

– Ralph Waldo Emerson

The RMA Wisconsin Chapter began its’ new fiscal year as of September 1, 2019.  At that time, I became the new President for the RMA Wisconsin Chapter.  I am honored to take on this role to continue my service on the board and give back to the banking community.  I joined the RMA Wisconsin Chapter board of directors in 2012.  The Chapter has experienced amazing growth during that time offering a greater number of educational classes, roundtable discussions and other industry social and educational events throughout the state.  These events are not only designed to provide training for bankers but to also provide a networking format for bankers to get to know their peers.

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New financial calculator:   $50.00

Box of pencils:   $5.00

CECL software program:   $15,000

Institutional Knowledge:   PRICELESS 

Community based financial institutions are a tremendous asset to the areas they serve. Typically, the financial institution is a pillar of the community through the volunteer hours of the staff, financial contributions to local organizations and professional expertise. Business bankers in these communities work closely with their customers to understand their financial needs and help them plan for a successful future. Many times, the banker and business owner have additional shared interests within the community that furthers the professional and personal relationship. 

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This September will be the 37^th running of the Chequamegon Fat Tire 40, an annual mountain bike race between Hayward and Cable, WI. Entrants consist of both the competitive set and avid riders who consider this sort of thing fun.

I began mountain biking in college when mountain biking was considered a fringe sport. The sport includes the challenge of technical trails and time riding in the woods, which I have continued to enjoy. I have had my share of bumps and bruises (to both my pride and my body) over the years resulting from this sport.

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Loan covenants are an essential part of commercial lending.  They provide a framework of understanding for the borrower to meet the requirements of the lender.  The covenants can include financial reporting requirements, performance-based covenants and operating covenants.  The first two are considered affirmative covenants while the last is generally considered a negative covenant.  The loan covenants are included within the loan agreement as a part of the overall loan documentation.  The specific requirements for the delivery of financial reporting or the testing of loan covenants should be explicitly included in the loan agreement and consistent with the approval of the credit facility.

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