I have said many times that any success enjoyed by the MBA can, invariably, be traced to banker participation. Over the past two decades, I have seen this demonstrated time and again in many different circumstances.

If we have a successful conference, seminar or school, you can bet that bankers have been involved in planning or conducting it. Our consumer education programs succeed only when bankers take the time to work with senior citizens, students or others in their local communities. If an MBA-sponsored product or service is successful, it is because bankers have been willing to help in tailoring the product or service to real needs of real bankers. In program after program, activity after activity, Mississippi bankers contribute in countless ways – not all of them immediately visible – to our association’s successes.

Our industry is now involved in state and local elections. MissBankPAC, the MBA-sponsored political action committee, is busy tracking races and giving financial support to worthy candidates. Operated by a committee of bankers, and governed by banker input, MissBankPAC will support dozens of candidates for legislative seats. Their action is our industry’s unified voice in the electoral process. This will make a difference when votes are counted.

Come January, the successful candidates will come to Jackson for the 2008 Regular Session of the Legislature. After important organizational votes – including the election of leadership, the adoption of procedural rules – leaders in both the Senate and House will appoint committees, and the legislative process will begin. Literally hundreds of pieces of legislation will be introduced. Many of them will affect the banking industry. While many factors will determine the fate of each bill, the biggest factor – without question – will be the willingness of voters to stay informed and voice their opinions to their legislators.

The MBA has always been blessed with great banker leaders who provide vital direction and leadership to our association. This is very important to us. But probably more important is the support these leaders give to others – bank employees, officers and directors across the state – to become engaged on issues.

Bankers at all levels, in all locations across Mississippi form our industry’s grassroots. These grassroots will be the key to electing good Senators and Representatives who will listen to banking’s concerns and consider our views when they vote on legislation. It is the role of the MBA leadership and staff to keep our grassroots informed and motivated on important issues. Bank employees, officers, directors and shareholders must step up to protect the well being of their institutions, their industry, their communities and their state.

While we can do a lot to monitor developments, advocate positions and keep bankers informed, the key will always be – as it always has been – our grassroots.

Thanks to those of you who are involved at the grassroots level. You are making a difference. If you are not involved, contact the MBA and we will show you how you can become involved.