The beginning of another year is upon us. The year 2009 was one that challenged everyone. Businessmen and women from all industries coped with declining revenues, increased costs and much uncertainty about the future. As we head into 2010, many questions remain. Will the economy improve? Will unemployment levels subside? What will happen to health care costs if the Administration’s proposed reform is approved? Will companies continue to be forced to consolidate to survive?

These are but a few of many more questions that I am sure we all think about. From the banking industry perspective, 2010 will continue to be pivotal to the long-term future of our industry as critical legislative and regulatory reform is debated in Washington D.C., as a result of the financial industry crisis that began in late 2008. The ultimate impact of potential overregulation is significant and everyone who works in the banking industry across the country has a stake in the outcomes.

Thank you for all your support during 2009. On behalf of all my colleagues at Centrix Bank, we appreciate your relationship and look forward to achieving great things together in 2010!