Interstate Bank Announces Leadership Transition: Danny Skarda Retires, Blair Berg Elected as Chairman and CEO
In a significant leadership transition, Interstate Bank has announced the retirement of Danny Skarda, who has served as Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer for over four decades. Blair Berg, the current Chief Financial Officer, has been elected as his successor and will officially assume the role on September 30.
A Legacy of Leadership: Danny Skarda
Danny Skarda’s retirement marks the end of an era for Interstate Bank. A third-generation banker, Skarda has dedicated more than 45 years to the banking industry, managing institutions across New Mexico, Montana, and Texas. His tenure as CEO began in 1981, during which he played a pivotal role in shaping the bank’s culture and operations. Known for his commitment to team development and mentorship, Skarda emphasized the importance of people in the banking industry, stating, “You’re only as good as your people, and we’re pretty darn good.”
To honor his contributions, a retirement reception was held on September 26 at Interstate Bank’s Amarillo office, where colleagues and community members gathered to celebrate his achievements and bid farewell.
Introducing Blair Berg: A New Chapter Begins
Blair Berg steps into his new role with a wealth of experience, having served as Interstate Bank’s Chief Financial Officer for the past five years. With 18 years of industry experience, Berg holds a degree in accounting and business administration from Texas Lutheran University. His leadership skills, critical thinking, and dedication to community service have made him a respected figure within the bank and the broader financial community. In addition to his professional responsibilities, Berg is actively involved in his local church, serving as Chairman of the Finance Committee at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church.
As he prepares to take the helm, Berg is poised to continue Interstate Bank’s tradition of personalized banking services while fostering growth and innovation. Under his leadership, the bank aims to maintain its commitment to the local communities it serves.
Interstate Bank: A Trusted Institution
For over 60 years, Interstate Bank has been a cornerstone of the Texas Panhandle, providing a range of financial products and services, including personal and business accounts, loans, and cash management services. With locations in Perryton and Amarillo, the bank has built a reputation for its customer-centric approach and dedication to community involvement. For more information about their services, visit Interstate Bank’s website.
NWTHS: Heart and Vascular Center First in Amarillo to Implant Device to Treat Symptoms of Heart Failure
In a groundbreaking development for cardiac care in the Texas Panhandle, the Northwest Texas Healthcare System (NWTHS) Heart and Vascular Center announced the successful implantation of the Barostim Baroreflex Activation Therapy device. This innovative therapy is the first of its kind approved by the FDA to treat heart failure through neuromodulation, harnessing the power of the brain and nervous system to alleviate symptoms in patients with systolic heart failure.
A New Hope for Heart Failure Patients
The Barostim device is designed for patients who may not receive adequate symptom relief from traditional medications. The procedure, performed by Dr. Bradley Trinidad, a vascular surgeon, and Dr. Prakash Desai, a cardiologist/electrophysiologist, represents a significant advancement in heart failure treatment.
Dr. Trinidad emphasized the importance of providing cutting-edge medical technology to patients, stating, “Providing the latest and most innovative medical technology for patients with heart failure is important to us. This is in line with our standard as the area’s regional cardiovascular center.”
How Barostim Works
Unlike other heart failure therapies that involve hardware implanted in the heart or blood vessels, Barostim works by electrically stimulating baroreceptors located in the carotid artery. These natural sensors communicate with the nervous system to regulate heart, kidney, and vascular function, ultimately reducing the heart’s workload and improving its efficiency. This innovative approach aims to restore balance to the autonomic nervous system, offering new hope to those suffering from heart failure.
First United Bank Welcomes New Leadership in Lending
First United Bank, a subsidiary of Plains Bancorp, Inc., is excited to announce the addition of two new Vice Presidents to its lending team in Amarillo. Brayden Ruthart has been appointed as Vice President of Commercial Lending, while Bianca Ramirez takes on the role of Vice President of Mortgage Lending. Both will be based at the Amarillo Colonies Banking Center.
Brayden Ruthart: A Return to Roots
An Amarillo native, Brayden Ruthart graduated from the University of North Texas in 2014. With nearly a decade of experience in financial institutions across North Texas, he is eager to return to his hometown to serve the community. Outside of his professional role, Ruthart is committed to volunteer work and cherishes time spent with his family.
Bianca Ramirez: A Community Advocate
Bianca Ramirez, originally from Hereford, graduated with a Business Administration degree from Amarillo College in 2018. She is actively involved in the Amarillo Association of Realtors and the Amarillo Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. In addition to her professional endeavors, Ramirez enjoys playing sports and is a dedicated mother of three.
First United Bank operates 17 banking centers across 13 West Texas markets, with total assets exceeding $2 billion. For more information, visit their website at www.FirstUnited.BANK.
TTUHSC Named a 2024 ‘Great College to Work For’
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) has once again been recognized as one of the best colleges in the U.S. to work for, earning a special designation as an “Honor Roll” institution. This recognition comes from a recent survey conducted by The Great Colleges to Work For program, which evaluated 216 colleges and universities.
Consistent Excellence in Workplace Culture
TTUHSC’s inclusion in the Honor Roll, awarded to only 42 institutions, highlights its commitment to fostering an exceptional work environment. This marks the third consecutive year TTUHSC has achieved this prestigious status. The university excelled in five categories: job satisfaction and support, compensation and benefits, professional development, shared governance, and faculty experience.
TTUHSC President Lori Rice-Spearman, Ph.D., expressed pride in the recognition, stating, “We are committed to fostering an exceptional work environment comprised of individuals who embody our core values, and the Great Colleges to Work For recognition reflects this.”
28th Annual Chamber Barbecue Cook-Off is October 3
The Amarillo Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for the 28th Annual Good Times Celebration Barbecue Cook-Off, set to take place from 5-8 p.m. on October 3 at the Tri-State Fairgrounds. This beloved community event will feature 100 cooking teams and sponsors serving up delicious barbecue, accompanied by live music and awards for top competitors.
A Celebration of Community and Cuisine
Attendees can enjoy mouthwatering barbecue with all the trimmings and ice-cold beverages while networking with fellow community members. Tickets are available for $30 in advance or $40 at the gate, granting access to all-you-can-eat food and drinks.
Special thanks go to presenting sponsors Reed Beverage, Tyson Foods, and United Supermarket/Market Street/Amigos, along with nearly 100 other sponsoring teams. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Amarillo Chamber of Commerce website.
USDA Launches Assistance Network to Support Financially Distressed Farmers and Ranchers
In a timely initiative, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has launched the Distressed Borrowers Assistance Network, aimed at providing personalized support to financially distressed farmers and ranchers nationwide. This initiative was announced during the Farm Aid Festival in Saratoga Springs, N.Y.
Tailored Support for Agricultural Producers
Through Cooperative Agreements, the network will connect distressed borrowers with individualized assistance to help stabilize their financial situations. The USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) has also announced significant changes to Farm Loan Programs, set to take effect on September 25, 2024, to enhance access and delivery for borrowers.
Producers are encouraged to reach out to their local FSA farm loan staff to explore the range of loan options available to support their agricultural operations. For assistance, producers should contact their local USDA Service Center.
In conclusion, the recent developments across various sectors in the Texas Panhandle highlight a community committed to growth, innovation, and support for its members. From leadership transitions in banking to advancements in healthcare and community celebrations, these stories reflect the resilience and dedication of the region.