The Headache: Community bank efficiency ratios are deteriorating, FDIC reports.

Our Question: Why? And what can be done to reverse the trend?

Come see what other bankers think, and add your own views

The Headache: Washington wants to see more small-business lending.

Our Question: President Obama proposed transforming $30 billion in TARP funds into a separate, new "Small Business Lending Fund." How would your bank respond if this proposal were passed by Congress?

Come see what other bankers think, and add your own views

The Headache: Coping with bank examinations in a troubled industry environment

Our Question:  Examinations have been a trying experience in this environment for most community banks. In your own recent exam, were there any steps that your bank took that helped ease the understandable tension?

 Come share your ideas and views, see what other bankers have tried

The Headache: Considering FDIC's proposed pre-paid assessments

Our question: How will your bank pay for the proposed FDIC prepayment, if it is approved?

The Headache: Marketing in a new media world

Our question:  What is your bank doing? Does it work? What will you try in the future?

The Headache: Controlling "people costs"

Our question:  What is your bank doing to contain personnel costs?

The Headache: Handling directors and officers liability insurance in a troubled and litigious atmosphere with prices rising and availability subject to change.

Our questions: What changes has your bank made (or plan to make) in D&O protection for the year ahead?

Come share your ideas, pick up a few!

The Headache: Getting fresh ideas about profitability, cost cutting, and more

Our questions: Has your bank tried a formal employee suggestion program? How well does it work? What’s the best idea to have come from it?

Come share your ideas, pick up a few!