Pub. 1 2012 Issue 6

Aug/Sept 2012 23 l e a d i n g a d v o c a t e f o r t h e b a n k i n g i n d u s t r y i n k a n s a s means talking to and meeting with lawmakers in between votes, and asking about their needs, not just ours. We also want to encourage novice banker advocates to take the first step in establishing a connection with their elected leaders. To help on both fronts, ABA is producing a series of brief videos on building effective relationships with members of Congress. The se- ries — which includes not just “how tos” but also “why tos” — walks viewers through advocacy essentials, beginning with why bankers should get involved in grassroots advocacy and how to set up a successful bank visit. Additional videos will be added over the next several months, so please be on the lookout for them. Never underestimate your power as a constituent. You have a great story to tell about what your bank is doing for its customers, communities and local economies. And by providing first-hand accounts of your work and its challenges — not the least of which is a hefty stack of compliance directives — you are enabling your lawmaker to cast informed votes on issues that affect you. Learn more and view our new grassroots advocacy training videos at aba.com/grassrootstraining. © 2012 American Bankers Association. All rights reserved. Reprinted with permission. E-mail Frank Keating at keating@aba.com An Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association ® Registered mark of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association Would you like an easy way to learn which health insurance plan is best for your needs and budget? Yes, I’m interested. No, maybe later. In just 8 minutes , AskBlue breezes you through a fun and friendly process that offers a personalized summary of the kind of insurance plan that matches your needs and budget. Simply answer AskBlue’s basic questions about your life, your medical needs and your budget. Do you want a clearer understanding of health insurance? Yes, that would be helpful. No, thanks anyway. AskBlue explains how copays, deductibles and premiums work together to control your costs – in everyday terms. You’ll learn so much, so fast! Why wait? Logon today! bcbsks.com/askblue A.1105 We want bankers who are already involved to develop deeper relationships with their representative and senators, and their staffs in Washington and back home.