2007 Annual Convention is Just Around the Corner!

The annual IBA convention is only a few weeks away and it is not too late to register! The event again will feature an outstanding lineup of speakers, as well as a full exhibit hall, outstanding meals and entertainment! The three days from September 16 through 18 are jam-packed with opportunities for networking and learning.

Convention begins with a reception and dinner to relax and get reacquainted with each other. Enjoy Bravo Broadway featuring Broadway stars Doug LeBreque and Lisa Vroman. The event is sponsored by United Missouri Bank.

Monday morning begins with the Ag Breakfast and speaker Dr. Michael Swanson, Ag Economist for Wells Fargo. Join us at the opening general session to hear from former Congressman Jim Leach and ABA Chairman Earl McVicker as well as an address from David Gergen, advisor to presidents.

Join us Tuesday morning for breakfast and share your opinions on the direction of IBA legislative policy. We will then hear from the IBA Executive Committee and then Ken Schmidt, former director of communications for Harley-Davidson Motor Company, will speak.

At the end of the day, don’t forget to stop by the silent auction to bid on the outstanding packages that are available with all proceeds going to benefit Iowa Public Television.

We are looking forward to this year’s convention! For more information or to register, visit the IBA’s website at www.iowabankers.com, click on Annual Convention!

Consumer Education Brochures to Become Available

You’ve seen the media reports and taken the questions about the turmoil in the credit markets.  Because consumer concern is likely to continue, the IBA is launching a four-pronged communications plan to help you.

We’ve created a series of statement stuffers to educate consumers on how to protect themselves. You may order these pieces and personalize the statements for your institution.

We’re also in the process of creating a web site for consumers, www.mysmartfinances.com.  The site will list trusted information from government agencies, banker experts and others. Also, the statement stuffers will be able to be viewed and ordered online. Look for more information about this site in the coming week. We will aggressively promote this site to the media to show the public that bankers are focusing on consumer concerns.

By the middle of September we will air radio commercials on the Hawkeye sports network and the Cyclone sports network reminding consumers to look to their local community banker for mortgage products and expertise.

We will sponsor a two-day mortgage lending workshop, on September 27-28, in Des Moines, for our members looking to broaden their mortgage lending knowledge.

The IBA believes it is important for you to know how your Association is supporting your efforts to meet this challenge in your community.  Be sure to contact us at 800.532.1423 with questions or suggestions.