BELZONI – Guaranty Bank & Trust Company is pleased to announce that Mary Reeder has been promoted to VP Branch Support Manager.

With 40 years of career banking experience, Mary brings a wealth of operational and branch management experience to Guaranty Bank. In her new role, she oversees branch support and is ultimately the driving force of customer experience consistency across all Guaranty Bank locations in Mississippi and Tennessee

A Batesville native, Mary cut her teeth in community banking in 1985 and continued to rise into various officer positions, from compliance and operations to lending. Mary joined the Guaranty Bank team in 2014 as Branch Manager for the Batesville locations. Her continued education in banking includes the American Institute of Banking Courses among numerous seminars and training classes on banking and real estate.

She’s an active member of Shady Grove Baptist Church and the Batesville Rotary Club. Among other honors and civic club positions, she was the 2020 recipient of the Panola Partnership Bobbie Jean Pounders Ambassador Award. She and her husband, Darrell, live in Sardis.

“Mary’s dedication, leadership and commitment to excellence make her the perfect fit for this role,” stated Gretchen McNeal, SVP Director of Administration. “We are excited to see her thrive with continued success in our organization.”

Guaranty Bank is proud to announce that Gretchen McNeal has been promoted to SVP, Director of Branch Administration.

A tenured employee for more than 25 years, Gretchen will lead the Regional Retail Managers, enhancing communication across all Guaranty Bank locations in Mississippi and Tennessee. Her ultimate leadership role is ensuring consistency and customer service excellence, embracing Guaranty Bank’s mission of providing a cutting-edge community banking experience.

“Gretchen’s impact on the growth of Guaranty Bank cannot be overstated,” said Hue Townsend, CEO and President of Guaranty Bank. “Her mastery of systems and solution-focused approach has propelled our success, earning the trust and admiration of all of our teammates.”

A native of Hollandale, Mississippi, Gretchen’s career path in banking began upon high school graduation while working as a teller with the Bank of Hollandale.

Gretchen is a graduate of Delta State University where she also received her Master’s in Business Administration. She was named Operations Specialist at Guaranty Bank in 1999 where she would continue to grow professionally and assume the role of Operations Manager.

Having served in several positions throughout her illustrious career at Guaranty Bank, Gretchen is an Accredited ACH Professional and a recognized National Checks Professional (NCP) under the National Checks Payments Certification Program (NCPC). As a dedicated team member, she also champions financial literacy for those in need of assistance in the community.

Gretchen is married to Rodney McNeal; they have two daughters, Tyra and Tayla.

Guaranty Bank is proud to introduce our new Providing Access to Homeownership (PATH) Program – created to help support underserved customers and communities. It is based on geographic location and is designed to increase home ownership in eligible census tracts. Here are some of the highlights of this product.

• Conventional loan

• Choose from below market interest rate OR closing cost credit

• No income limits

• Not restricted to first time home buyers

• Expanded credit parameters

• Up to 97% financing available

• Can be used in conjunction with HomeReady and HomePossible

• Priority underwriting approval

• Eligible for Purchase and Refinance (including Cash Out) for Primary Residences

The Guaranty Bank PATH Program is an integral part of our commitment to enriching each community within our footprint. Serving hopeful homeowners with education, support, and a pathway to achieving their homeownership goals is part of our vision for the future of community banking.

Contact your local Guaranty Bank mortgage loan officer for more details and property eligibility.

Guaranty Bank

Company NMLS# 405570

gbtmortgage.com

662-449-1296

New guidelines and increases to the Homebuyer Equity Leverage Partnership (HELP) Grant.

We are proud to offer the Homebuyer Equity Leverage Partnership (HELP) program. This program offers down payment and closing cost assistance to low-income, qualified first-time homebuyers. Let’s work together to explore whether HELP is right for you.

Benefits and requirements:

• Only first-time homebuyers are eligible for the program. Some exceptions apply.
• HELP funds up to $20,000.00 per homebuyer.
• Household income limits apply (must not exceed 80% of the area median income).
• Homebuyers are required to complete a Homebuyer Counseling Program.
• Homebuyers must contribute $500 of their own funds toward the required down payment or closing costs.
• Homebuyers are required to sign a five-year retention agreement.
• Can be used in conjunction with Conventional, FHA, USDA, and VA loans.
• Minimum 620 credit score.
• Additional qualifying guidelines apply.

*Program subject to change without notice. Subject to underwriting terms and conditions and some restrictions may apply.

Apply now: www.gbtmortgage.com

Guaranty Bank Launches Construction of New Full-Service Office in Ridgeland

RIDGELAND – A new chapter in banking convenience and innovation is unfolding in Ridgeland, Mississippi, with the groundbreaking of Guaranty Bank’s latest project. Located strategically at 405 West Parkway Place, off Highland Colony Parkway, this new build-out marks a significant expansion of the bank’s presence in the area.

On the morning of December 6, the Ridgeland Chamber of Commerce, Madison County Business League & Foundation, esteemed representatives from Dean Architecture, P.A., Peoples Construction Corporation, Concord Companies, along with local city dignitaries, united with Guaranty Bank executives to celebrate the commencement of the new office.

Nicky Cobb, Market Branch President of Guaranty Bank, shared insights into the expansion, which will span 17,500 square feet. The new facility is designed to offer an exceptional banking experience, incorporating the latest technological advancements. Key features include two state-of-the-art drive-thrus, each equipped with Interactive Teller Machines (ITMs), enhancing customer service and efficiency. The completion of the construction is eagerly anticipated by the end of 2024.

This venture builds upon Guaranty Bank’s initial investment in Ridgeland, dating back to 2019, when a temporary office was established on Crescent Boulevard. Today, this site operates as a thriving full-service bank branch. The new build-out represents a leap forward in the bank’s dedication to the community, offering a comprehensive range of banking, Wealth Advisory, and Mortgage Group services under one roof.

Cobb emphasized the significance of this expansion: “With our tremendous growth in Ridgeland, this new build-out is a testament to our ongoing and future commitment to Ridgeland and its community. We are grateful for the unwavering support of our customers and are excited about the prospects of many more years of success and partnership in Ridgeland.”

Guaranty Bank, with this innovative full-service branch, is set to redefine banking convenience and customer service, further cementing its position as a trusted financial partner in the community.

Guaranty Bank is unleashing the festive spirit again with our 13th Annual Holiday Toy Drive, which will run from December 1^st through the 15^th!

Our toy drive started 13 years ago when Guaranty Bank partnered with a local radio station hosting a toy drive for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. We’re talking gifts galore in 2010, and since then, our toy drive has evolved into this epic extravaganza involving the entire Guaranty Bank team. This program has become a favorite for employees and customers, and we look forward to its success again this year.

Here is the wish list of items from St. Jude:

• Barbies/Action Figures
  • Multicultural variety of Barbies, Ken dolls, and accessories, especially the career set Barbie with accessories
  • Action figures that make patients feel like the superheroes they are!

• LEGO kits
  • Small, medium, and large LEGO kits

• Infant/Toddler
  • Light up toys or toys with sounds featuring Disney characters, Fischer Price Little People sets, Peppa Pig toys, Baby Alive, and Paw Patrol items

• School-Age
  • Star Wars and Minecraft toys
  • STEM toys like the Imaginext or robotics building toys always bring smiles to the kids of St. Jude
  • LOL dolls with accessories for that extra dash of cheer

• Teens and up
  • LEGO kits of iconic statues or places provide endless hours of fun
  • Art supplies like Sketchbooks
  • When the weather is nice, flying a drone is always a great activity
  • Tech goodies like earbuds, chargers, sound-canceling headphones, and Bluetooth speakers – teen essentials!
• Toiletry items:
  • Shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrushes, bar soap, lip balm, skin care products, unscented lotion, razers, hand sanitizer, small manicure sets, Q-tips, kids’ band-aids, baby wipes, pacifiers, baby bottles, Teething toys, assorted diapers, and pull-ups. Travel or personal size are good.

*Just a gentle reminder: the hospital cannot accept stuffed animals, handmade Items (e.g., blankets and knit caps), food, candy, cloth baby dolls, porcelain dolls, bubble mixtures, used items, and ride-on toys.

Families at St. Jude count on generous donations from donors like you to sprinkle a bit of magic onto their hospital stay. Share the Christmas spirit by dropping off toys for ages baby-teen at any Guaranty Bank location!

BELZONI, MS, October 17, 2023 – Guaranty Capital Corporation (“Guaranty”), the holding company of Guaranty Bank & Trust Company (“Guaranty Bank”), and Lafayette Bancorp, Inc. (“Lafayette”), the holding company of Oxford University Bank (“Oxford University Bank”), announced today the signing of a definitive merger agreement pursuant to which Guaranty will acquire Lafayette. The transaction has been approved by the board of directors of each company, is expected to close in the first quarter of 2024, and is subject to customary regulatory and shareholder approvals.  Upon completion, Oxford University Bank will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Guaranty.  Guaranty expects to merge Oxford University Bank with and into Guaranty Bank, with Guaranty Bank surviving, in the second or third quarter of 2024, subject to regulatory approval.

Founded in 2000, Oxford University Bank has established itself as a reputable full-service bank, with three well-positioned locations, two in Oxford and one in Pontotoc, and ranks 4^th in Oxford deposit market share. As of June 30, 2023, Lafayette had total assets exceeding $245 million. This strategic acquisition marks a significant milestone for Guaranty’s growth strategy and reaffirms our commitment to providing exceptional financial services to our valued customers in the Oxford market. Post-acquisition, the combined companies will have approximately $2.6 billion in assets with 39 branches across Mississippi and Tennessee. 

Hue Townsend, President and CEO of Guaranty Bank, commented, “We are pleased to partner with Oxford University Bank, a well-respected bank serving the Oxford and Pontotoc communities. Our shared values, centered on delivering a community bank experience, allows us to leverage our collective strengths and resources to provide even greater support and opportunities.”

“We are excited about this new journey with Guaranty Bank,” said David Guyton, CEO of Oxford University Bank. “Oxford University Bank is a community-focused financial institution with a Certified Development Financial Institution (CDFI) designation, just like Guaranty Bank. This strategic partnership reinforces our dedication to serving that community. Together, we will continue prioritizing the well-being and success of our customers and the community we call home.”

Guaranty was advised by Keefe, Bruyette & Woods as financial advisor and Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP as legal counsel.  Lafayette was advised by Olsen Palmer LLC as financial advisor and Butler Snow LLP as legal counsel.

About Guaranty Bank & Trust Company

Founded in 1943, Guaranty Bank has remained independent and locally owned, delivering extraordinary service and products to clients in Mississippi and Tennessee. We commit to our vision daily, offering a cutting-edge community bank experience through dedicated high performance, people development, and open communication. When we execute these pillars of our vision, we deliver an experience like no other bank. Over the last few years, Guaranty Bank has shown exceptional growth by managing risk while increasing capital above market rates. Our consistent 5-Star rating by BauerFinancial for 24 consecutive quarters attests to our substantial capital, adequate liquidity, superior asset quality, and strong earnings. For more information about Guaranty Bank, visit www.gbtonline.com. 

About Oxford University Bank Established in 2000 in Oxford, Mississippi, Oxford University Bank continues to operate from its headquarters in the same location. The bank was founded with the objective of making a difference by delivering exceptional service, providing a full suite of modern financial services, and offering a personal touch to all members of its communities. For additional information about Oxford University Bank, please visit www.oubol.com.

In today’s rapidly evolving financial landscape, businesses face numerous challenges, with cybercrime being a significant concern. Among the various forms of financial fraud, check fraud continues to be a prevalent threat. As we recently addressed in an urgent email to our bank business customers, it is crucial to stay vigilant and take proactive measures to safeguard your business against these malicious activities. In this blog post, we will delve deeper into check fraud, discuss how to spot potential red flags, and outline the necessary steps to take if you suspect fraudulent activity.

Understanding Check Fraud:

Check fraud is an umbrella term that encompasses a range of deceptive practices involving checks to unlawfully obtain funds from businesses. Fraudsters utilize various tactics, such as forging signatures, altering check amounts, or creating counterfeit checks resembling legitimate ones. These criminals often prey on businesses, where larger transactions and higher check volumes can make detection more challenging.

Spotting Check Fraud:

1. Missing Check Numbers: Regularly review your issued checks and ensure no check numbers are missing. Fraudsters may target unused check numbers to create counterfeit checks.
2. Altered Check Information: Check for any signs of tampering, such as changes to the payee’s name, check amount, or date. Be cautious of faded or irregular ink, erasures, or visible corrections.
3. Suspicious Endorsements: Investigate any checks with suspicious endorsements or signatures that appear inconsistent with the payee’s usual signature.
4. Unrecognized Transactions: Regularly monitor your account for unfamiliar transactions, particularly checks with unusually large amounts or those not initiated by your business.
5. Duplicate Checks: Keep track of your issued checks to identify any duplicates that may indicate unauthorized transactions.
6. Unusual Check Origins: Be cautious of checks received from unknown sources or unexpected individuals, especially if they claim to represent legitimate companies.

Responding to Check Fraud:

1. Act Promptly: If you suspect check fraud, take immediate action. Notify your bank and the involved parties, including the payee and any relevant authorities.
2. Record Details: Document all relevant information related to the fraudulent check, such as the check number, amount, date, and any accompanying documents.
3. Communicate with Your Bank: Inform your bank about the suspected fraud and provide them with the necessary details. Banks have a 24-hour timeframe to resolve check fraud cases.
4. File a Police Report: Report the fraud to your local law enforcement agency, providing them with the evidence and information you have gathered.
5. Secure Your Accounts: Temporarily close or restrict the affected account until the issue is resolved, and implement additional security measures, such as Positive Pay services.
6. Educate Your Team: Ensure that your staff is aware of check fraud risks and knows the proper procedures to follow in case of suspicion.

Protecting your business from check fraud requires vigilance, education, and proactive measures. By staying informed about the latest fraud trends and implementing security practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to fraudulent activities. Remember that early detection and swift action are crucial in minimizing the impact of check fraud on your business. As your trusted bank, we are committed to assisting you in this endeavor, providing the necessary support to keep your finances safe and secure. If you have any concerns or questions regarding check fraud or account security, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Together, we can strengthen the resilience of your business against financial threats.

Guaranty Bank & Trust Company to Acquire First American National Bank

BELZONI, MS – Guaranty Capital Corporation, the holding company for Guaranty Bank & Trust
Company (“Guaranty Bank”), announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to
acquire First American Bancshares, Inc. and its banking subsidiary, First American National
Bank.
Founded in 1964, First American National Bank is a full-service bank with 11 locations,
strategically located across Northeast Mississippi with more than $384 million in total assets.
This transaction aligns with Guaranty Bank’s North Mississippi and West Tennessee footprint.
The combined company will have approximately $2.4 billion in assets with 36 branches across
Mississippi and Tennessee.
Hue Townsend, President and CEO of Guaranty Bank, commented, “As we embark on this
exciting partnership with First American National Bank, we remain committed to our core values
of community, high performance, and financial empowerment. Together, we build a foundation
that fosters growth and cultivates relationships by combining our expertise and resources. We
will shape a brighter financial landscape with a shared purpose and create opportunities that
propel us all toward a prosperous future.”
“We are excited about joining the Guaranty Bank team as their banking culture maintains the
principles all our customers are accustomed to for more than half a century,” said Tommy
Chamblee, CEO of First American National Bank. “With this partnership, our customers will
gain access to a wider array of product offerings and expand our geographic locations. The
combined strength of the banks will enhance our proven ability to grow and support
entrepreneurialism in our communities, while strengthening the benefits to our customers and
employees.”
The transaction has been approved by the Board of Directors of both companies. It remains
subject to customary shareholder and regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the
fourth quarter of 2023.

The Bank Advisory Group, LLC, and the Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP law firm advised Guaranty
Bank in the transaction. Gerrish Smith Tuck, Attorneys and Consultants served as First
American National Bank’s financial and legal advisor.

About Guaranty Bank & Trust Company
Locally owned and operating since 1943, Guaranty Bank delivers extraordinary service and
products to Mississippi and Tennessee. We live through our vision daily by providing a cuttingedge community bank experience through high performance, people development, and
communication. When we execute these pillars of our vision, we deliver an experience like no
other bank. Over the last few years, Guaranty Bank has shown exceptional growth by managing
risk while increasing capital above market rates. We are proud to be recognized by
BauerFinancial as a 5-Star bank for 24 consecutive quarters. This superior rating reflects our
substantial capital, adequate liquidity, high-asset quality, and good earnings. For more
information about Guaranty Bank visit www.gbtonline.com.

About First American National Bank

First American National Bank was founded in 1964 by Dr. Kelly and Martha Segars in Iuka,
Mississippi, where the headquarters continue to operate. From its inception, they have been
committed to promoting community growth, and continue to live by that commitment for five
decades. They are known for their dedication to quality, strength, and integrity. First American
National Bank continues to focus on each community’s needs and its citizens’ financial services
by providing stability and security without losing the personal touch. For additional information
on First American National Bank, please visit www.fanb.bank.

Guaranty Bank HELPing make homeownership dreams happen!

We are proud to offer the Homebuyer Equity Leverage Partnership (HELP) program. This program offers down payment and closing cost assistant to low-income, qualified first-time homebuyers. Let’s work together to explore whether HELP is right for you.

Benefits and requirements:

• Only first-time homebuyers are eligible for the program. Some exceptions apply.
• HELP funds up to $15,000 per homebuyer.
• Household income limits apply (must not exceed 80% of the area media income).
• Homebuyers are required to complete a Homebuyer Counseling Program.
• Homebuyers must contribute $500 of their own funds toward the required down payment or closing costs.
• Homebuyers are required to sign a five-year retention agreement.
• Can be used in conjunction with Conventional, FHA, USDA, and VA loans.
• Additional qualifying guidelines apply.

*Program subject to change without notice. Subject to underwriting terms and conditions and some restrictions may apply.

To learn more about the HELP Grant, please contact Guaranty Bank’s mortgage department:

 mymortgage@gbtonline.com