RCB News Archives - Page 2 of 6 - River City Bank

Blog Category: RCB News

River City Bank Announces Officer Promotions

Monday, November 20, 2023

River City Bank is proud to announce the promotions of Angie Beard to Senior Vice President, Senior Personal Banker, and Kathi Watson to Vice President, Mortgage Loan Officer.

Angie Beard has been an integral part of River City Bank since 2006, joining the team as one of its first employees. Over the past seventeen years, her contributions have played a significant role in the company’s success. With over 40 years of community banking experience and a lifelong resident of Rome and Floyd County, she has established herself as a highly trusted and respected banking professional.

Ms. Beard serves on the board of directors as Treasurer for the Heart of the Community Foundation, is actively involved with the Rome Floyd Chamber, and was recently voted by her peers as the 2023 Best Banker in the “Best of Rome” awards presented by the Rome News Tribune. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, playing with her six grandchildren, and taking trips to the beach. 

Kathi Watson joined River City Bank in 2008, serving in several key positions before joining the mortgage lending team in 2017. Having excelled throughout her fifteen years with RCB, she is best known for delivering exceptional and personable service to clients looking to purchase or refinance their homes.

Ms. Watson serves on the board of directors as 2nd Vice President of the Coosa Valley Fair Association, is a board member and Secretary for the Exchange Club of Rome, and the Fine Arts Director of the Coosa Valley Fair. She is a member of the Rome Board of Realtors Association and was recently voted by her peers as the 2023 Best Mortgage Lender in the “Best of Rome” awards presented by the Rome News Tribune. In her free time, Ms. Watson enjoys knitting, DIY projects, crafts, furniture refinishing classes, and giving back to her communities through volunteer service.

“Both Angie and Kathi exemplify our “Expect More” standard for community banking,” stated Jamie Tallent, President and CEO of River City Bank. “Their dedication to providing personalized service and building meaningful relationships with our customers is truly commendable, and we are pleased to recognize their longtime commitment to River City Bank through these worthy promotions.”

Holiday Fraud Prevention

Monday, December 18, 2023

With the holiday season upon us, it is crucial to remain vigilant against scams and fraud. Protect yourself and your loved ones this season by reviewing the fraud prevention tips below.

Fraud Trend Spotlight: Vishing And Smishing
Voice phishing, or vishing, is a tactic where criminals utilize phone calls to trick victims into providing personal or financial information by posing as their financial institution or other trusted organizations. The same idea goes for smishing, where messages are sent out as scam SMS texts or via various messaging apps, such as WeChat, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and others. In both instances, criminals will look to build a rapport with their victims to encourage or coerce them into sharing sensitive details.

Legitimate services like Voice Over IP (VoIP) may be used by criminals to conduct such schemes. The use of VoIP makes it easier for bad actors to create fake numbers that are nearly impossible to track. In some instances, services may have capabilities to allow actors to create numbers local to the victim’s location to make them look more realistic. Actors may also use a method known as Caller ID Spoofing to display a number or identity of an individual or organization that the user already knows and trusts.

To prevent yourself from becoming a victim, education is critical to prevention. Below are some recommendations to adopt to minimize the effect of social engineering and scams.

  • Stay alert when receiving texts or phone calls from random numbers.
  • Check phone numbers from the actual store, financial institution, or delivery website. In addition, verify a suspicious caller by hanging up and calling a number from the website of the supposed organization.
  • Do not click any links from texts you randomly receive.
  • Take any questions regarding orders or deliveries you conducted to the phone number from the company website or from the initial confirmation email the cardholder received after placing the order.
  • Never reveal one-time passcodes to anybody when no cardholder-initiated transactions or inquiries occur.
  • AI Voice creation has come a long way in the last year. If you receive a phone call from a family member who is in immediate danger and they are requesting a ransom or personal information, please attempt to call your family member or other individuals involved with this family member to be sure they are safe.
  • Urgent and Authoritative behavior are common fraud techniques used to make the victim fall into a state of fear or anxiety.

Additional Precautions During the Holiday Season Include:

  • Only use legitimate sites when shopping online (when an offer is too good to be true, it probably is.)
  • Cardholders should always use a secure network.
  • Be leery of skimmers (use Near Field Communication whenever possible.)
  • Limit what information you share online. Your security questions associated with your accounts can be guessed with personal clues shared by the consumer.
  • Always review and check your statements and credit reports.

Education can be the key to preventing fraud. Stay safe and enjoy your holiday season with peace of mind! 

*This article was published by FIS in December 2023.

Beneficial Ownership Information

Wednesday, January 10, 2024

 An Introduction to Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting

In 2021, Congress enacted the Corporate Transparency Act. This law creates a beneficial ownership information reporting requirement as part of the U.S. government’s efforts to make it harder for bad actors to hide or benefit from their ill-gotten gains through shell companies or other opaque ownership structures.

New Federal Reporting Requirement for Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI)

As of January 1, 2024, many companies in the United States were required to start reporting information about their beneficial owners, i.e., the individuals who ultimately own or control the company. They will have to report the information to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). FinCEN is a bureau of the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Who Has to Report?

Companies required to report are called reporting companies. Reporting companies may have to obtain information from their beneficial owners and report that information to FinCEN.

Who Does Not Have to Report?

Twenty-three types of entities are exempt from the beneficial ownership information reporting requirements. These entities include publicly traded companies, nonprofits, and certain large operating companies.

How Do I Report?

Reporting companies will have to report beneficial ownership information electronically through FinCEN’s website: https://boiefiling.fincen.gov

  • The system will provide the filer with a confirmation of receipt once a completed report is filed with FinCEN.

When Do I Report?

  • If your company was created or registered prior to January 1, 2024, you will have until January 1, 2025, to report BOI.
  • If your company was created or registered on or after January 1, 2024, and before January 1, 2025, you must report BOI within 90 calendar days after receiving actual or public notice that your company’s creation or registration is effective, whichever is earlier.
  • If your company was created or registered on or after January 1, 2025, you must file BOI within 30 calendar days after receiving actual or public notice that its creation or registration is effective.
  • Any updates or corrections to beneficial ownership information that you previously filed with FinCEN must be submitted within 30 days. FinCEN cannot accept reports before January 1, 2024.

What penalties do individuals face for violating BOI reporting requirements?

  • A person who willfully violates the Beneficial Ownership Information reporting requirements may be subject to civil penalties of up to $591 for each day that the violation continues.
  • That person may also be subject to criminal penalties of up to two years imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000.
  • Potential violations include willfully failing to file a beneficial ownership information report, willfully filing false beneficial ownership information, or willfully failing to correct or update previously reported beneficial ownership information.
  • For additional information regarding penalties, visit https://www.fincen.gov/boi-faqs.

Where Can I Learn More?

You can find guidance materials and additional information by visiting the following:

*This article was published in December 2023 by the U.S. Department of the Treasury Financial Crimes Enforcement Network

Ella Givens Joins River City Bank as Marketing & Community Relations Manager

Tuesday, February 28, 2023

River City Bank is pleased to welcome Ella Givens as Marketing and Community Relations Manager. In this role, Ella will support the strategic marketing initiatives for River City Bank through digital and print media, as well as community and public relations.

“I am excited to have Ella join our River City Bank team,” said Jennifer Selman, Senior Vice President and Director of Marketing. “She is a strategic thinker and is highly collaborative, which makes her a great cultural fit.”

A Rome native, Ella has a passion for people and is active in our local community. She is a member of the Rome Floyd Chamber’s Young Professionals and enjoys volunteering with local civic and non-profit organizations. 

Jamie Tallent, President & CEO, stated, “We are delighted that Ella has joined our team here at River City Bank. She is an excellent addition to our company. Ella will be an integral part of our marketing team and the timing of her hire is planned precisely with our continued expansion efforts across North Georgia.”

Ella attended The University of Alabama’s Culverhouse College of Business where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Marketing. In her free time, she enjoys art, home improvement projects, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends. 

Sierra Mantooth Joins River City Bank as Branch Manager

Tuesday, February 20, 2024

River City Bank is pleased to announce the addition of Sierra Mantooth as Branch Manager of the Bank’s Rome location. In this role, she will be responsible for providing financial solutions for clients as well as managing and developing the retail team.

A Rome native, Sierra attended Georgia Highlands College where she graduated with her bachelor’s degree in Business Management. She has a passion for connecting with people and is recognized for her team-oriented mindset. “I am thrilled to be returning to River City Bank,” said Sierra. “The culture, customers, and my colleagues are what I love most. In this new role, I’m excited to help our clients reach their financial goals by guiding them to the right products and services at River City Bank.”

“We are proud to welcome Sierra back to River City Bank,” stated Jamie Tallent, President and CEO. “Sierra’s strong background in retail banking, commitment to customer service, and active involvement in our community make her an excellent candidate to lead our retail team in Rome.”

Sierra and her husband, Justin, reside in Rome with their two-year-old son, Easton. She never meets a stranger and in her free time, Sierra enjoys spending time with family and discovering exciting activities for her son to enjoy in Rome.

River City Bank Announces Retirement of C. King Askew as Chairman of the Board

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

RCB Financial Corporation, the holding company of River City Bank, announces the retirement of C. King Askew as Chairman of the Board effective May 21, 2024. Mr. Askew has served as Chairman of the Board of Directors since the inception of the bank in 2006, playing an instrumental role in shaping River City Bank’s growth and success over the past 18 years.

Mr. Askew’s retirement marks the conclusion of nearly two decades of remarkable service and visionary leadership to River City Bank. His dedication to River City Bank’s mission and core values has been the driving force behind its continued success. Under his leadership, the Bank achieved significant milestones, experiencing remarkable growth and success as a community bank in North Georgia.

“We extend our sincere congratulations and heartfelt appreciation to King for his dedication and years of service on the Board,” stated Jamie C. Tallent, President & CEO of River City Bank. “He has led our Board and Company with unparalleled vision, resourcefulness, empathy, and discipline and has been instrumental in guiding us through challenging times. King’s mark on River City Bank will continue to shape how we run our business, care for our people, and pursue our vision for the future.”

Reflecting on his tenure, Mr. Askew expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community and the bank. “It has been an honor to lead River City Bank and work alongside our talented team to fulfill our commitment to our customers, communities, and shareholders,” said King Askew. “I have seen firsthand what this company can accomplish, and I am confident their best chapter lies ahead.”

A retirement reception honoring Mr. Askew is planned for Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at 3:30 pm at River City Bank. Members of the community are invited to stop in and congratulate Mr. Askew.

Scott Smith Appointed Chairman of River City Bank’s Board of Directors

Wednesday, May 22, 2024

River City Bank is pleased to announce the appointment of Scott Smith as the incoming Chairman of its Board of Directors, effective May 21, 2024. This appointment follows the retirement of longstanding Board Chairman, C. King Askew. Additionally, Smith will assume the role of Board Chairman for the Bank’s holding company, RCB Financial Corporation.

Since joining River City Bank’s Board of Directors in 2015, Smith has proven to be a strong leader and sound decision-maker, focusing on the company’s strategic vision, which makes him the ideal candidate to lead the Board and continue to drive the Bank’s success.

Expressing his enthusiasm for his new role, Scott Smith stated, “I am honored to have been elected to serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors. River City Bank holds a special place in the heart of our community, and I am committed to upholding its legacy of excellence and service. As we move into the next phase of the company’s growth strategy, I look forward to working closely with the Board, leadership team, and staff to ensure that we continue to meet the evolving needs of our customers and contribute to the prosperity of the communities we serve.”

Smith is the managing partner of the law firm of McRae, Smith, Peek, Harman & Monroe, LLP and sits on the firm’s Executive Committee. He is a graduate of the University of Georgia and Mercer Law School. Smith serves on the Boards of the Community Foundation for Greater Rome, where he currently serves as Chairman, and the Boys and Girls Club of Northwest Georgia. He is a 2018 recipient of the Heart of the Community Award.

Jamie Tallent, President & CEO of River City Bank and Vice Chair of the Bank’s Board of Directors, expressed confidence in Scott Smith’s ability to lead the Board effectively. “We are fortunate that Scott has been a member of our Board for almost 10 years. His diverse expertise and insight will be of tremendous value, and I am confident he will provide invaluable guidance in leading us to achieve the strategic goals of our Company.”

River City Bank Announces New Personal Bankers

Monday, July 1, 2024

 

River City Bank is pleased to announce the addition of two new members to its Rome retail team. Ivey Maxwell and Jerri Knowles join as Personal Bankers, further strengthening the team’s ability and commitment to serving the Rome and Floyd County community.

In addition to cultivating meaningful customer relationships, their responsibilities will include processing banking transactions, opening deposit accounts, and providing tailored financial solutions to help customers achieve their financial goals. As Personal Bankers, they will be instrumental in growing core deposits from retail and business clients through personalized, customer-focused service.

Ivey Maxwell brings nearly a decade of community banking experience to River City Bank. Throughout her career in Rome, she has consistently shown a strong dedication to serving the financial needs of both consumers and businesses alike. She is an active member of Legacy Church and in her free time, she enjoys traveling, going to the lake, watching the Atlanta Braves, and spending quality time with her family and dogs.

Jerri Knowles is a Rome native with over 35 years of community banking experience. She has a proven track record of building strong relationships with customers and delivering tailored solutions to meet their financial needs. Mrs. Knowles is actively involved in our community, currently serving as treasurer for the Etowah GYSTC. She and her husband, Jay Knowles, are members of Pleasant Valley South Baptist Church where she sings in the choir. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, reading, listening to podcasts, going to the beach, and cheering for the Atlanta Braves.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ivey and Jerri to our Rome retail team,” stated Jamie Tallent, President and CEO of River City Bank. “Their expertise in community banking and dedication to excellence align perfectly with our mission, and I am confident that they will make outstanding contributions here at River City Bank.”

National Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Protect Yourself Online

Monday, September 30, 2024

October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. At River City Bank, our team is dedicated to keeping our customers informed about the latest scams and cybersecurity threats to help you stay safe online. Protect yourself online from cyber attacks with these tips from the American Bankers Association Foundation.

Although the internet has many advantages, it can also make users vulnerable to fraud, identity theft and other scams. According to a 2018 Gallup Poll, one in four Americans has experienced cybercrime. The American Bankers Association recommends the following tips to keep you safe online:

  • Keep your computers and mobile devices up to date.  Having the latest security software, web browser, and operating system are the best defenses against viruses, malware, and other online threats. Turn on automatic updates so you receive the newest fixes as they become available.
  • Establish passwords. A strong password is at least eight characters in length and includes a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
  • Watch out for phishing scams. Phishing scams use fraudulent emails and websites to trick users into disclosing private account or login information. Do not click on links or open any attachments or pop-up screens from sources you are not familiar with.
  • Recognize and avoid bogus website links. Cybercriminals embed malicious links to download malware onto devices and/or/ route users to bogus websites. Hover over suspicious links to view the actual URL that you are being routed to. Fraudulent links are often disguised by simple changes in the URL. For example: www.ABC-Bank.com vs ABC_Bank.com
  • Keep personal information personal. Hackers can use social media profiles to figure out your passwords and answer those security questions in the password reset tools. Lock down your privacy settings and avoid posting things like birthdays, addresses, mother’s maiden name, etc.  Be wary of requests to connect from people you do not know.
  • Secure your internet connection. Always protect your home wireless network with a password. When connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, be cautious about what information you are sending over it. Consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) app to secure and encrypt your communications when connecting to a public Wi-Fi network. (See the Federal Trade Commission’s tips for selecting a VPN app.)
  • Shop safely. Before shopping online, make sure the website uses secure technology. When you are at the checkout screen, verify that the web address begins with https. Also, check to see if a tiny locked padlock symbol appears on the page.
  • Read the site’s privacy policies. Though long and complex, privacy policies tell you how the site protects the personal information it collects. If you don’t see or understand a site’s privacy policy, consider doing business elsewhere.

*This article was published by the American Bankers Association. 

Matt Robbins named President & CEO

Matt Robbins

Friday, November 1, 2024

River City Bank announced today that Matthew R. Robbins has been named President and Chief Executive Officer of the bank and its parent company, RCB Financial Corporation (collectively, the “Company”).

As President and CEO, Robbins will be responsible for steering the strategic vision of the bank, driving operational efficiency, and fostering a culture of excellence and community focus. His leadership will also center around initiatives to drive sustainable growth, enhance the customer experience, and support the bank’s commitment to innovation and local partnerships.

Robbins joined River City in October 2023 as Chief Banking Officer, bringing over 15 years of broad-based community banking experience with extensive expertise in commercial banking, retail banking, mortgage banking, credit administration, financial technology, and executive leadership. A graduate of the Louisiana State University Graduate School of Banking, he received special recognition for outstanding performance in Bank Management. Robbins also holds a Bachelor of Science in Consumer Economics from The University of Georgia, where he played on the university’s baseball team for four years.

“On behalf of the Board, we are thrilled to have Matt lead River City Bank into the future,” said Scott Smith, Chairman of the Board of Directors. “His impressive track record in community banking and his dedication to customer and community success align perfectly with our mission. We have full confidence in Matt’s ability to guide River City Bank forward as a community partner and trusted financial resource.”

Robbins is a 2014 graduate of Leadership Rome and a 2012 graduate of Leadership Calhoun-Gordon County. He actively serves on the boards of the Rome Area Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the Calhoun-Gordon County Community Foundation, and he is a Champion Board Member for Extra Special People, Inc. (ESP). Earlier this year, Robbins was honored with an induction into the Calhoun – Gordon County Sports Hall of Fame.

Robbins expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating, “I am honored to step into this role and work alongside a talented team of bankers that is dedicated to the people and businesses in the communities we serve. Community banking is about serving the unique needs of our neighbors, and I look forward to building on River City Bank’s rich history to further strengthen our presence in North Georgia.”

Robbins is a native of Calhoun, Georgia where he resides with his wife, Keri, and their three children: Ryan, Greer, and Beau. They are passionate Georgia Bulldog and Braves fans and enjoy snow skiing in their free time.