A banking veteran of 36 years, Mr. Stephen W. Whatley recognized and embraced the need for a community bank that understands and values the needs of customers today. With that, he embarked on his mission to assemble a group of organizers that shared the same vision and in turn opened Southern States Bank. "I'm very enthusiastic, I'm very optimistic about our future, because I think there is a strong demand, maybe as strong as there has ever been, for independent banks that are locally owned by the communities that they are in and have input and representation from local boards that actually have authority, " said Steve Whatley in February 2007. The optimism greatly spread as Mr. Whatley and organizers raised in excess of $31 million in capital and in August 2007 Southern States Bank, The Common Sense Bank, opened offices in Anniston and Opelika simultaneously. Less than a year later, in February 2008, a third location was opened in Birmingham. Southern States Bank, we believe the most important thing is our relationships with our customers. We are a true community bank that understands the importance and value of providing our customers with the products and services that best meet their banking needs. Staffed with seasoned bankers you know and trust, we are committed to carrying out our mission of providing our customers with the best service they should expect from their bank. Headquartered in Anniston Alabama, Southern States Bank has two additional banking facilities located in Birmingham and Opelika. With a strong executive management team, in addition to a diverse and involved Board in place, we have also engaged Advisory Board representation in each market to help facilitate local decisions and community involvement. Southern States Bank, The Common Sense Bank, it is our mission to provide our customers with an excellent banking experience by engaging customers in a rewarding relationship, delivering products and services tailored to meet their needs while enhancing and maintaining shareholder value. Jay Florey Pumroy, Partner, Wilson, Dillon, Pumroy & James LLC " Board Chairman Henry Turner, Executive Director, Alabama Minority Business Opportunity Center. Stephen Woods Whatley, President and Chief Executive Officer, Southern States Bank Henry Turner, Executive Director, Alabama Minority Business Opportunity Center.