[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 150 (Tuesday, August 24, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E926]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       IN RECOGNITION OF THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF FIRSTSTATE BANK

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                            HON. MIKE ROGERS

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, August 24, 2021

  Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
50th anniversary of FirstState Bank.
  In late 1968, Mr. J.B. McCord, Gen. Robert Duke, Mr. J.O. McCain and 
Mr. Don Hogan worked with attorney Mr. T. Reuben Bell to create a local 
bank to serve their community.
  FirstState Bank first opened in 1971 as First State Bank of 
Lineville. A few years later, the bank changed to First State Bank of 
Clay County. As the bank grew, another location was added in Wedowee 
and the name was changed to what it is today, FirstState Bank.
  The original organizers include: Mr. J.B. McCord, Mr. Bill Ogle, Mr. 
L.D. Walker, Mr. Bernard Spurlin, Mrs. Bessie McCrary, Mr. Robert 
Howell, Ms. Nina Faye Bonner, General Robert W. Duke, Mr. Grover 
Bearden, Mr. W.W. Young, Mr. Don Hogan, Mr. Lester Proctor, Mr. Charles 
Taylor and Mr. J.O. McCain.
  Johnny Appleby was the first employee hired by the bank and worked 
there until his passing in 2019.
  Today, FirstState Bank is thriving under the leadership of President 
and CEO Steve Foster.
  The bank serves both Clay and Randolph Counties.
  Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing the 50th anniversary of 
FirstState Bank.

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