14 Red Flags for Elder Financial Abuse

Senior Fraud Awareness Day – May 15, 2025 Our aging loved ones deserve to live with dignity, security, and peace of mind. Unfortunately, seniors are often targeted by scammers and even trusted individuals who exploit them financially. That’s why Senior Fraud Awareness Day is a crucial reminder to stay informed and alert. Why This Matters Elder financial abuse is one of the most underreported — yet fastest growing — crimes in the U.S. Caregivers, family members, and...



AMERICA SAVES WEEK 2025

Planters First Bank is a proud participant in America Saves Week, an annual national campaign that encourages and empowers individuals, families, employers, and communities to check in on their finances. The campaign focuses on several important topics that make up your financial landscape with a realistic economic approach, including saving for emergencies and unexpected expenses, leveraging automatic savings, retirement, and reducing debt. It also covers more niche topics like talking...



ICBA and Planters First Bank: Community Banks Power Local Communities

In honor of Community Banking Month in April, Planters First Bank and the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) are highlighting community bank efforts to power local communities and fuel economic prosperity for Americans nationwide. “At Planters First Bank, being a true community bank means more than just handling finances—it means being there for our neighbors, day in and day out,” said Kandi Clem, Marketing Support Officer. “Middle Georgia is our home, and we’re...



Planters First Bank Promotes Davis Potts to Branch Manager of Warner Robins

We are excited to announce the promotion of Davis Potts to Branch Manager of our Warner Robins banking center at Planters FirstBank. With a dedication to customer service and a deep understanding of the financial needs of our community, Davis is ready to lead the team in continuing to deliver exceptional banking experiences. Davis began his career at Planters First Bank as a Bank Management Trainee, gaining valuable experience across multiple areas of banking, including operations,...



Celebrating National Consumer Protection Week

Planters First Bank is committed to your financial safety and awareness, not just during National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) from March 2-8, 2025, but all year round. NCPW is a collaborative effort among government agencies, consumer protection groups, and community banks like ours to empower individuals with knowledge about consumer rights and fraud prevention. Tips to Avoid Fraud: Watch for Money Laundering Schemes – Be cautious if someone asks you to move money through...



Celebrating 129 Years of Service and Impact!

Since our founding on February 27, 1896, Planters First Bank has been dedicated to making a lasting impact in Middle Georgia. For 129 years, we have provided personalized financial solutions, built strong relationships, and supported the growth of our communities. Our legacy is rooted in trust, innovation, and a commitment to helping individuals, families, and businesses thrive. As we celebrate this milestone, we thank our customers and communities for their trust and partnership....



Promotion of Shane Bell and Kent Jordan to Market Presidents

Planters First Bank Announces Promotion of Shane Bell and Kent Jordan to Market Presidents Middle Georgia—Planters First Bank is pleased to announce the promotions of Shane Bell to Market President for Crisp and Dooly Counties and Kent Jordan to Market President for Warner Robins. These leadership appointments underscore the bank’s commitment to strengthening its presence and continuing its tradition of exceptional service in the communities it serves. Shane Bell – Market...



Announces Executive Promotions

Planters First Bank Announces Executive Promotions: Chris Howe and Rose Phillips to Executive Vice President, Courtney Tomlinson to Executive Assistant/PM Middle Georgia – Planters First Bank is proud to announce the well-deserved promotions of Chris Howe and Rose Phillips to Executive Vice President, as well as Courtney Tomlinson to Executive Assistant/PM. These leadership advancements reflect the bank’s commitment to recognizing and fostering talent from within, ensuring continued...



Protect Yourself from IRS Impersonation Scams

With tax season around the corner, scammers are on the prowl, targeting unsuspecting taxpayers with fraudulent schemes. Recently, there has been an alarming increase in scams where criminals impersonate the IRS, particularly through text messages, in an attempt to steal sensitive personal information. The Scam: What’s Happening? Scammers are taking advantage of the IRS’s announcement regarding automatic payments for those eligible who did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit (also...



Planters First Bank Announces New Agricultural Division

Middle Georgia—Planters First Bank is proud to announce the launch of its new Agricultural Division, a dedicated initiative to support the agricultural communities across Middle Georgia. Leading this effort is Wayne Sangster, a highly respected figure in the agricultural lending community, who has joined as an Agricultural Lending Specialist. Joining him is Cathy Sangster, who brings over 15 years of experience and deep agricultural knowledge as the new Agricultural Administrative...



We’ve Moved! The Solution Center and Treasury Team Are Now in Ocilla

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news—our Solution Center and Treasury Team have relocated to the Ocilla branch at Planters First Bank! This move is all about making it easier and faster for us to provide you with the exceptional service and expertise you’ve come to know and trust. With both teams now under one roof, we’re ready to support you with all your banking and treasury needs. Whether you have questions, need expert guidance, or are looking for financial solutions,...



2025 Data Privacy Week Champion

Data Privacy Week is an annual expanded effort from Data Privacy Day -- taking place from January 27 - 31, 2025. The goal of Data Privacy Week is to spread awareness about online privacy among individuals and organizations. This year’s theme is “Take Control of Your Data”. All your online activity generates a trail of data. Websites, apps, and services collect data on your behaviors, interests, and purchases. Sometimes, this includes personal data, like your Social Security and...