Pub. 4 2015 Issue 7

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 8 Major League Baseball Hall of Famer, George Brett, drew a large group to the opening day of the conference. His personal experiences were delivered in a meaningful presentation that was well received. KBA officers from left to right; KBA Chairman Robert Leftwich, Impact Bank, Wellington; KBA President Chuck Stones; KBA Past Chairman Kelly Mason, First National Bank in Pratt, Pratt; KBA Treasurer Ron Johnson, Community National Bank, Seneca; and KBA Chairman-elect Jim Hoskins, Baxter State Bank, Baxter Springs. KBA’S CEO & SENIOR MANAGEMENT FORUM AND ANNUAL MEETING Scott Carrithers, Jeff Laudermilk, Mark Schmelzle and Bob Siebert compete in the Annual Golf Tournament with the Broadmoor Hotel in the background. T he Kansas Bankers Association’s CEO & Senior Management Forum and Annual Meeting was held August 6th through 8th at the beautiful Broadmoor hotel in Colorado Springs, Colorado. This was the KBA’s 31st year to hold the annual conference at this majestic historical property that is nestled at the base of the southern edge of the Rockies. KBA Board Chairman Kelly Mason welcomed the attendees in his opening remarks. He recognized the planning committee, officers and KBA staff. Doug Wareham, KBA’s EVP of Government Relations spoke briefly about KBA’s BankPAC (political action committee) and encouraged those who hadn’t yet donated to do so. Tom Hoenig, FDIC Vice Chairman, talked about the regulatory burden placed on community banks, and several options that are being considered to help alleviate some of that burden. Following Mr. Hoenig was R. Daniel Blanton, the ABA Chairman-elect. Mr. Blanton encouraged attendees to “up build our communities” by advocating for our industry by sharing our stories and passion for serving our customers with our elected officials in Washington. Mr. Blanton spoke on the Shelby Bill, and briefly highlighted Rob Nichols who has taken over as the ABA’s new President and CEO with the impending retirement of Frank Keating. Mr. Blanton concluded his talk by stating: “The future of community banking really is bright. This industry has to survive. It is needed.” Major League Baseball Hall of Famer George Brett rounded out Thursday afternoon by delivering a powerful motivational message to a packed West Ballroom. He shared highlights and anecdotes from his career with the Kansas City Royals, along with his takeaway reminder to be honest and reliable in your career and life. Thursday concluded with an opening reception on the Mountain View Terrace that was enjoyed by