United Bank of Iowa

The NFL and WNBA drafts were widely watched this year, with a homegrown State of Iowa flavor to both. How exciting for those Iowa players, our local sports fans, and the Iowa pride it generated throughout the state and nation. There are many more Philadelphia Eagles and Indiana Fever fans west of the Mississippi than ever before.

Speaking of Iowa pride, the American Bankers Association reported recently that United Bank of Iowa is the #1 Ag Bank in the state, based on ag loan volume, for the 20th consecutive year. I am certainly proud to work with the ag team here at UBI and serve some of the top producers in the nation. We are proud of our loyal customers, local ownership and strong commitment to rural Iowa.

I would be remiss if I did not mention all the cybersecurity issues in the news. It is a sad state when trusting Iowa folks fall victim to such unscrupulous actors. These actors encourage you to avoid direct contact with depository institution personnel, if possible, and lie to them if confronted. Fraudsters are using even more threatening techniques, making it challenging at times to assist you with preventing fraud. I implore you to trust your family, friends, and bankers when confronted by situations that don’t seem right.

This was the 30th year of the Whitey Thompson Hike-Bike-A-Thon. This event continues to grow and it is amazing when you think of all the OABCIG students this event has assisted through scholarships. The first event 30 years ago raised $3,700; this year the donations are currently over $86,000, a new record! I am so proud to work for the bank that manages this event year in and year out. For those wondering who Whitey Thompson was, he was a United Bank of Iowa Director and local businessman with a community-minded spirit. His vision and passion for youth continues to live on 30 years later.

We hosted another anniversary event recently in Odebolt to celebrate our 30th year in the Odebolt and Kiron communities. The UBI staff served a delicious dinner and it was wonderful to see such a great turnout. I really enjoyed visiting with the Odebolt and Kiron customers and having the opportunity to thank them for their business.

Jean Burns and Julie Hahn will be retiring in July of this year. Congrats to Jean on a 40-year career with UBI. She started at an entry level position, held many positions through the years, and currently serves as the Ida Grove Office Manager, as well as being one of our top lending personnel. Julie, who has nearly reached the 16-year milestone, started as a Teller at our Storm Lake office and currently serves as the Alta Office Manager. Jean and Julie will be missed around the bank by their coworkers and customers. I sincerely wish them a happy retirement.