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Tompkins Bank of Castile launches online application portal for PPP funds for businesses

By Press Release

Press release:

Tompkins Bank of Castile has launched its online application portal for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) second round of funding for businesses, and is now accepting applications from businesses located within its geographic service areas who do not yet maintain an active business checking or loan account with Tompkins.

“We are very pleased to be able to offer this SBA (Small Business Administration) funding,” said Tompkins Bank of Castile President and CEO John McKenna. “Our team understands how challenging these times have been and we are glad we can help members of our community access these vital funds.”

New business customers must visit a Tompkins branch location to apply for a business checking account prior to the submission of their PPP application through the portal. Minority and women-owned businesses are encouraged to apply.

To learn more about the application process or to submit an application for PPP Funding, please visit the online portal here (same as link above).

ESL Federal Credit Union named a Training Top 100 winner by Training Magazine

By Press Release

Press release:

ESL Federal Credit Union, which has a branch in Batavia, is honored to announce that for the 15th consecutive year, Training Magazine named the locally owned financial institution to the list of Training Top 100 winners for 2021.

ESL ranked #17 on the list, which includes other well-known companies such as Edward Jones, Mastercard and Visa Inc., as well as regional companies Paychex and ConServe. Top 100 companies were measured on several qualitative and quantitative factors including training program and scope, tuition reimbursement, training infrastructure and delivery, evaluation and metrics, and business outcomes resulting from training.

The list can be viewed at Training Magazine’s website, traingingmag.com.

“We are truly honored to be named for 15 consecutive years to the prestigious Training Top 100 list in recognition of our unique learning and development programs,” says Maureen Wolfe, senior vice president director, Human Resources & Community Impact.

“To deliver a superior customer experience for all, we must also ensure a superior experience to all employees, and make the necessary investments into our training and development programs. We know this investment in our employees pays dividends, and sets the foundation for a thriving workplace.”

For companies today, investing in internal training is vital to attracting, retaining, and developing talent. Promoting a superior employee experience is a key initiative for ESL. Even amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, ESL continued its commitment to deliver learning and development programs to employees.

Changes in 2020 included modifications to in-person learning environments, where required, to meet COVID safety precautions and shifting its in-person class offerings to online formats. The year also brought the launch of several new online and self-directed options for employees, including the introduction of Employee Learning Week, and Business Writing online coursework.

The company touts historically low turnover in recent years, in part because of growth and development opportunities available to all employees. Last year, 78% of all jobs were filled from within, and 83 percent of leadership positions were filled internally.

ESL invests significant resources to provide valuable learning solutions to its workforce. Every employee of the organization has the opportunity to further his or her skillset through coursework offered each year. Courses include topics such as leadership development, diversity and inclusion, mentoring, and specific Microsoft Office program skills. Employees also can also receive up to $5,250 of tuition aid each year for undergraduate or graduate coursework.

The March issue of Training magazine profiles the Top 5 companies and provides information about the training efforts of all 100 organizations. The list of 2021 honorees includes learning-focused organizations – such as United Wholesale Mortgage at No. 1 and MasTec Utility Services at No. 2.

About ESL Federal Credit Union

With more than 100 years of locally owned history, ESL Federal Credit Union serves as a full-service financial institution to more than 378,000 members and 11,800 businesses. Founded in 1920, the company provides personal banking, business banking, mortgage services and wealth management services through its locally based 22 branch network, telephone, mobile, online and live chat center.

The Rochester-based financial institution employs more than 870 people in the Greater Rochester area and holds more than $8.2 billion in assets. Since 1996, ESL has paid out 26 consecutive Owners’ Dividends to its members totaling more than $185 million. Since the creation of its Community Impact initiative in 2018, ESL has reinvested more than $40 million in grants throughout the community. The company has appeared on the Great Place to Work® Best Small & Medium Workplaces list for 10 years since 2010. ESL Federal Credit Union is headquartered at 225 Chestnut St., in Rochester, and can be found online at www.esl.org. Connect with ESL on Twitter (@ESLFCU) and Facebook.com/ESLFCU.

Published report has Tops Markets merging with Price Chopper/Market 32

By Mike Pettinella

According to an online story today in USA Today, Williamsville-based Tops Markets, with 162 grocery stores in New York, Pennsylvania and Vermont – including stores in Batavia and Le Roy – has agreed to a merger with Price Chopper/Market 32.

The megadeal of the two independent grocery chains would double their reach in the Northeast. Currently, Price Chopper, with headquarters in Schenectady, has 130 stores and 18,000 employees.

Tops, meanwhile, has 14,000 employees.

Scott Grimmett, chief executive officer of the new company, was quoted as saying “this merger marks a major step forward and collectively elevates our ability to compete on every level.”

USA Today reported that Grimmett will lead the merged company out of Schenectady, while Tops chairman Frank Curci will serve on the board of directors of the new parent company and as a consultant to assist in the transition. John Persons, Tops Markets president and CEO, will lead the Tops Markets business.

The transaction reportedly is expected to close in the coming months, subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Other Tops stores in this area are in Albion, Arcade, Attica, Avon, Dansville, Medina and Warsaw.

'Majestic Circus': Batavia native helped create a new virtual game company

By Virginia Kropf

A Batavia native with a talent for entertaining has taken the activity to a whole new level.

Kevin Noonan is one of the founders of a novel virtual entertainment experience called Majestic Circus that provide friends, family or colleagues with some friendly and safe competition online.

He has loved to entertain since he was a teenager growing up in Batavia.

The son of retired Genesee County Judge Robert Noonan and Marcia Noonan, Kevin started entertaining at birthday parties for Chris Fix at the YMCA in Batavia and summers at Camp Hough.

He graduated from Batavia High School in 1998, and then attended the University of New Hampshire for two years.

His father encouraged him to “go for it” and join Carnival Cruise Lines, where he soon worked his way up to cruise director. At age 20, he met his wife, 18, on the ship. She was from London and a dancer on the ship. 

When Carnival undertook the largest renovation project ever on a cruise ship and created the Carnival Sunshine, Noonan was their cruise director. He cruised the Mediterranean Sea with them during 2012 and 2013.

In 2019, Noonan and his wife and son moved to Mexico for a year, where he directed entertainment for Iberostar Resorts and was responsible for 17 resorts in five countries.

When he decided to move his family back to the States last March, he wanted to come back to Batavia.

He soon realized the coronavirus pandemic was going to affect the cruise industry, so he started brainstorming on a new endeavor with other entertainers who were out of work.

The result was Majestic Circus, which Noonan founded with three of his friends. The company has since restructured, leaving Noonan and James Dunn as cofounders.

In a press release Feb. 5, Majestic Circus is described as a one-of-a-kind entertainment company, which has reimagined fun, giving players an opportunity to host a virtual game night guided by ringmasters.

Noonan said it took four months to build games and set up the company. They launched in the middle of September on Facebook.

They had recruited a total of 22 entertainers, whose combined followers on Facebook and Instagram are more than 400,000. For their launch, Noonan said they simply posted their logo with no explanation.

“People were very curious,” he said. “On the first day we launched, we had more than 100,000 hits. “We’ve had a lot of success so far.”

One corporate event had 700 people playing. Another had 2,500 playing from 38 different countries. 

The minimum to play is four. The games are extremely suited for up to 16 players at home, Noonan said. They can all be in the same room or in 16 different countries.

“Since our founding, Majestic Circus has been focused on providing players with a unique and fun entertainment experience that is unlike any other,” Noonan is quoted in the press release. “Whether your group is together or thousands of miles apart, our live experiences can be enjoyed virtually with our talented ringmasters to guide you while you play.”

Games are family-friendly and good for all ages. Players can join from anywhere across the globe via video conferencing. No two experiences are ever the same, with multiple games and categories to select from in each round. 

Their initial experience is called “Get it!” and “Know it!” They suggest players think of “Get it!” as a game of fetch, as players embark on a high-energy scavenger hunt, right in their own home or office.

“Know it!” is a knowledge-based experience where players will compete in a series of games across four rounds. As rounds change, so do the rules.”

Majestic Circus will also be introducing a new experience to the mix called “Partner Up!” so fans can engage in a new adventure. This is set to be released later this month.

Majestic Circus is also offering players a special Valentine’s Day deal with discounted booking prices, starting Feb. 12 and running through Feb. 16. More details are available at www.majesticcircus.com, and on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Top photo: Batavia native Kevin Noonan hams it up in Centennial Park, near his Batavia home. Noonan is cofounder of a unique virtual entertainment experience called Majestic Circus, which is rapidly growing in popularity across the country.

Inset photo left: A couple plays Majestic Circus online in the comfort of their home.

Submitted photos and logo image.

Ken Barrett Collision Center in Batavia donates refurbished vehicle to Oakfield mom

By Press Release

Submitted photo and press release:

Recently, a deserving Oakfield, recipient experienced a life-changing event --  the presentation of a vehicle to provide them independence and the ability to work and take care of their family.

This was thanks to the Ken Barrett Collision Center and car donor GEICO, along with the National Auto Body Council Recycled Rides program.

The presentation was held at Ken Barrett Collision Center in Batavia.

The deserving recipient was selected by Community Action of Orleans & Genesee County. The recipient received a 2015 Chevy Trax.

A hard-working single parent to a 7-year-old, she works 36 hours a week to support her child and herself, while receiving no government support, including child support or housing.

For the recipient, the gift of a vehicle was not an easy task. She didn’t have a driver's license and had to accomplish many tasks, including taking her five-hour course, getting in practice time with friends’ vehicles, and ultimately signing up for and passing a road test.

The recipient has goals of continuing her education and becoming a surgical technician in a hospital or surgical center.

With a vehicle, her life and the life of her son are sure to change for the better. The possibility of continuing education and getting a job outside of Oakfield is a huge step for her.

About National Auto Body Council Recycled Rides

This is a unique program in which businesses representing all facets of the collision repair industry team up to repair and donate vehicles to individuals and families in need of reliable transportation.

Since the inception of the program in 2007, members of the National Auto Body Council have donated more than 2,600 vehicles valued at more than $36 million. Additional partners in the NABC Recycled Rides® presentation included 1-800 Charity Cars.

GCEDC board approves LandPro package

By Press Release

Press release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) Board of Directors accepted an application for incentives for a $7 million capital investment development project on 14 acres of land on West Saile Drive and Call Parkway in the Town of Batavia at its Feb. 4 board meeting.

LandPro Equipment LLC proposes to acquire and develop a 14-acre parcel on which it would build a 50,000-square-foot facility for a full-service John Deere Agriculture and Turf Dealership. The facility would primarily be used for operations and training, with a portion of the facility used for retail.

The project proposes to create up to five new jobs and retain approximately 60 jobs in Genesee County.

“We are encouraged to see more companies growing in Genesee County with the goal of expanding their operations and increasing training capacity,” said GCEDC President and CEO Steve Hyde. “Genesee County has the workforce talent and developable properties aligned to accelerate a company’s facility construction and successful operations.”

A public hearing will be scheduled, as LandPro Equipment LLC is seeking property, sales and mortgage tax abatements totaling approximately $731,000. It is anticipated that with every $1 of public sector investment will generate a return of $7 of private sector investment.

LeRoyan named fiduciary officer for ESL Trust Services

By Press Release

Submitted photo and press release:

ESL Trust Services LLC, a subsidiary of ESL Federal Credit Union, recently named Lauren Whiting as fiduciary officer.

In her new position, Whiting will coordinate the legal and financial paperwork associated with trust accounts and work closely with administrators of the estate.

 

Whiting holds more than seven years’ experience working with estate law, most recently working with Nixon Peabody LLP, as an associate attorney.

Whiting received her juris doctor from Michigan State University College of Law, and her bachelor’s from Grand Valley State University. She is a member of the Monroe County Bar Association, a board member of the Estate Planning Council of Rochester and membership chair of Greater Rochester Association for Women Attorneys.

Whiting also volunteers her time with several organizations and is on the advancement committee of Volunteers of America.

She is a resident of Le Roy with her husband and daughter.

2021 Soybean and Small Grains Congress to be virtual, preregister by Feb. 8

By Press Release

Press release:

Due to the ongoing uncertainty related to the coronavirus pandemic, Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Northwest NY Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Team has decided to transition the 2021 Soybean and Small Grains Congress into a virtual conference scheduled for Feb. 10 and 11.

The conference will be held using Zoom. Preregistration is required. 2.5 DEC Points are available and CCA Credits are also available.

Cost: $45 per person, includes both days. $30 per person, if enrolled in NWNY Team. Preregistration is now open on the NWNY Team’s website, https://nwnyteam.cce.cornell.edu/.

Registration closes Feb. 8.

Topics to be discussed include:

Feb. 10 (10 a.m. - noon) DEC Check-in: 9:30 - 9:55 a.m.

  • 10 - 10:30  a.m.   Soybean Weed Control Updates

                             Michael Hunter, Cornell Cooperative Extension, NNY Team

  • 10:30 - 11 a.m.   Precision Planting Wheat

                              Dennis Pennington, Wheat Systems Specialist, Michigan State University

  • 11 - 11:30 a.m.   How to Grow 140 Bushel Wheat

                             Dwight Bartle, Wheat Producer, Brown City, Michigan

  • 11:30 a.m. - noon   Soybean Cyst Nematode - Tracking and Managing the New Threat to NY Soybean Production

                             Jaime Cummings, NYS IPM Program, Cornell University 

Feb. 11 (10 a.m. - noon) DEC Check-in: 9:30 - 9:55 a.m.

  • 10 - 11 a.m.     Getting Your Best Soybean and Wheat Yields

                             Dr. Shawn Conley, Soybean & Wheat Specialist, University of Wisconsin

  • 11 - 11:30 a.m.    On-farm Soybean Research Networks: What are We Learning?

                             Del Voight, Soybean Specialist, Penn State Extension

  • 11:30 a.m. - noon     NY Small Grains Updates

                             Mike Stanyard, Cornell Cooperative Extension, NWNY Team

To view the full conference agenda and to register online, visit : https://nwnyteam.cce.cornell.edu/  

Questions, contact: Brandie Waite at: (585) 343-3040, ext. 138

The Northwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Team is a partnership between Cornell University and the Cornell Cooperative Extension Associations serving dairy, livestock, and field crop farm businesses and supporting industries in these nine northwest New York counties: Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Niagara, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne and Wyoming.

Zambito Realtors joins Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices global real estate brokerage network

By Press Release

Press release:

IRVINE, Calif. – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, one of the world’s fastest-growing residential real estate brokerage franchise networks, is pleased to announce the addition of Zambito Realtors to its esteemed network. The company will add three offices and 35 agents to the global brokerage network, now operating as Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Zambito REALTORS® and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Western New York Properties.

“We decided to join the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network because of its unique technology and marketing tools that will give our agents access to more when assisting clients in looking for theirnext home, more data, more properties and more neighborhood information,” said Rita Zambito, owner of Zambito Realtors.

“Taking our local expertise and adding the global network and reach that only Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices can offer us, our agents and our clients will have anunbeatable advantage in the marketplace.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Zambito Realtors to our network,” said Chris Stuart, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. “Zambito Realtors has long been Western New York’s hometown real estatecompany and I know their service to the community will expand moving forward.

Zambito agents represent the same Berkshire Hathaway principles of trust, integrity, stability and longevity. Theirleadership’s mission to uphold the integrity of their professionals through building lastingrelationships with their clients creates the long-term success we are looking for.”

With their brand transition, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Zambito REALTORS® and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Western New York Properties agents gain access to Berkshire HathawayHomeServices’ active referral and relocation networks, and its “FOREVER Cloud” technology suite, a powerful source for lead generation, marketing support, social media, video production/distribution and more.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices has aligned with best-in-class technology platforms to deliver world-class support to its network members far into the future.

The brand also provides global listing syndication, professional training and ongoing education and the

exclusive Luxury Collection marketing program for premier listings. Its Prestige Magazine showcasesnetwork members’ premium listings with a strong lineup of feature stories covering topics that appeal to high-end real estate consumers.

Zambito Realtors has been and will continue to offer insight and guidance for all types of real estate transactions, from single-family homes, multi-family homes, vacant land, commercial listings, farms with specific expertise in equestrian properties.

Gino Blefari, chairman of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, also welcomed the company to the network, “Zambito Realtors demonstrates a commitment to their community beyond their business, which is a wonderful example of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices mission to be dedicated toour clients and continuously improve their lives.”

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network represents real people with big dreams and different realities. It's a legacy brand that understands the realities that come with the complex real estate journey. Not as agents and salesmen, but as partners and trusted advisors. From the first home to the last home and everything in between.

For more information, visit: bhhswny.com

About Zambito Realtors

Located in the heart of Orleans County, Zambito Realtors have a wealth of experience. With expertise in selling residential, waterfront, multi-family, commercial and foreclosure properties in the surrounding areas. The office covers Orleans County and surrounding Niagara, Erie, Monroe and Genesee counties.

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is one of the world’s fastest-growing residential real estate brokerage franchise networks, with more than 50,000 real estate professionals, nearly 1,500 offices throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe and the Middle East, and more than $119 billion in real estate sales volume.

The network, among the few organizations entrusted to use the world-renowned Berkshire Hathaway name, brings to the real estate market a definitive mark of trust, integrity, stability and longevity. Visit www.berkshirehathawayhs.com

Cornell to offer beginning farmers educational series via Zoom, first -- starting a livestock farm

By Press Release

Press release:

There are many aspects to consider when starting a livestock farm, such as land, what to sell, and how to sell it. Cornell Cooperative Extension’s specialists Nancy Glazier and Joan Sinclair Petzen are offering a beginning farmer educational series via Zoom beginning 7-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 24; second session is Wednesday, March 10.

The two sessions will cover resource assessment, business planning, basic bookkeeping and budgeting. Time will be available each evening for discussion. Follow-up sessions will be held biweekly if there is enough interest.

The goal of workshops is to provide livestock farms the right tools to get started.  

The cost of the workshops is $20 per person or farm couple. Preregistration is required by Feb. 17. Register online, or by calling Brandie Waite at (585) 343-3040, ext. 138. For workshop questions, please call Nancy Glazier at: (585) 315-7746 or email nig3@cornell.edu.

Tompkins Financial Corp. reports record fourth quarter earnings

By Press Release

ITHACA -- Tompkins Financial Corporation (NYSE American: TMP) reported diluted earnings per share of $1.61 for the fourth quarter of 2020, up 15 percent compared to $1.40 reported in the fourth quarter of 2019.

Net income for the fourth quarter of 2020 was $24.0 million, a $2.9 million increase over net income reported for the same period in 2019.

For the fiscal year ended Dec. 31, 2020, diluted earnings per share were $5.20, down 3.2 percent from 2019. 2020 net income was $77.6 million, down from $81.7 million, for 2019. Results for 2020 were negatively impacted by economic stress resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, which contributed to the $16.3 million provision for credit losses recognized during the first quarter of 2020.

President and CEO Stephen Romaine said, "2020 was a challenging year on many fronts, which makes it particularly rewarding that earnings for the fourth quarter reflect the best fourth quarter results in our Company's history. Favorable results were largely driven by improved net interest income, insurance commissions and wealth management fees, all of which were up from the fourth quarter of 2019.

"Despite the positive earnings trends for the quarter, our results for the full year were negatively impacted by the pandemic and related economic restrictions, which have continued to negatively impact customers. We continue to support our customers through our loan payment deferral program and funding of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program. At year end, we believe that we had adequately reserved for potential credit losses in the loan portfolio, though a great deal of uncertainty remains.”

SELECTED HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE YEAR-END 2020:

  • Total loans of $5.3 billion at Dec. 31, 2020 were up $342.8 million, or 7 percent over Dec. 31, 2019. The increase over the prior year-end included an outstanding principle balance of $291.3 million of PPP loans that were funded during the second quarter of 2020.

  • Total deposits of $6.4 billion was an increase of $1.2 billion, or 23.5 percent over Dec. 31, 2019.

  • The ratio of Total Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets improved to 14.39 percent, up from 14.26 percent at Sept. 30, 2020, and 13.53 percent at Dec. 31, 2019.

    NET INTEREST INCOME
    Net interest income was $57.8 million for the fourth quarter of 2020, compared to $53.2 million reported for the same period in 2019. For the full fiscal year, net interest income was $225.3 million, an increase of $14.7 million or 7 percent from 2019.

    Average loans for the year ended Dec. 31, 2020 were up $398.0 million, or 8.2 percent compared to 2019. The increase in average loans includes $465.6 million in loans originated under the Small Business Administration's ("SBA") Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP") in the second quarter of 2020. Asset yields for the year ended Dec. 31, 2020, were down 47 basis points compared to 2019, which reflects the impact of reductions in market interest rates in 2020, and the addition of the lower yielding PPP loans originated in the second quarter. While PPP loans were a significant contributor to average loan growth for the year, increases in residential real estate loans (up 5.7 percent from 2019) and commercial real estate (up 5.6 percent from 2019), also contributed to the growth in 2020 average loan balances.

  • Average total deposits for 2020 were up $1.0 billion, or 20.1 percent versus 2019. Average noninterest bearing deposits were up $349.9 million or 24.9 percent compared to 2019. Average deposit balances benefited from $465.6 million of PPP loan originations during the second quarter of 2020, the majority of which were deposited in Tompkins checking accounts. For 2020, the average rate paid on interest-bearing deposit products decreased by 38 basis points from 2019. The total cost of interest-bearing liabilities for 2020 declined by 52 basis points to 0.60 percent from 2019.

    Net interest margin was 3.12 percent for the fourth quarter of 2020, down compared to the 3.44 percent reported for the fourth quarter of 2019, and 3.26 percent for the third quarter of 2020. The decline in net interest margin during the fourth quarter, when compared to the third quarter of 2020, was mainly due to a decrease in overall asset yields. The decrease in average asset yields was due to lower securities yields, as well as a slight shift in the composition of average earning assets, with a greater mix of lower yielding securities and interest bearing balances, and a decrease in average loan balances reflecting lower PPP loan balances. The decrease in net interest margin was partially offset by lower average funding costs.

As a result of its participation in the SBA's PPP, in the fourth quarter of 2020, the Company recorded net deferred loan fees of $4.5 million, which are included in interest income. For the fiscal year, net deferred loan fees from PPP loan originations were $9.2 million.

NONINTEREST INCOME
Noninterest income represented 24.6 percent of total revenues in the fourth quarter of 2020, compared to 25.2 percent in the same period in 2019. Noninterest income of $18.8 million for the fourth quarter of 2020 was up 4.8 percent compared to the same period in 2019. For the full fiscal year, noninterest income of $73.9 million was down 2.1 percent from 2019. Total fee based services for the year ended Dec. 31, 2020 were $64.6 million, a decrease of 2.7 percent compared to 2019. The reduction in fee based income in 2020, when compared to 2019, is largely related to the pandemic-related travel and business restrictions, which reduced card services fees and service charges on deposit accounts.

NONINTEREST EXPENSE
Noninterest expense was $46.4 million for the fourth quarter of 2020, up $505,000, or 1.1 percent, over the fourth quarter of 2019. For the full fiscal year, noninterest expense was $185.4 million, up $3.5 million, or 2 percent, over 2019. The increase in noninterest expense for the year ended Dec. 31, 2020 was primarily attributable to normal annual increases in salaries and wages, which were up $4.4 million or 3.9 percent over 2019.

INCOME TAX EXPENSE
The Company's effective tax rate was 20.4 percent for the fourth quarter of 2020, compared to 19.8 percent for the same period in 2019. The effective tax rate for the year ended Dec. 31, 2020 was 20.4 percent, compared to 20.5 percent reported for 2019.

ASSET QUALITY
Provision for credit losses for the fourth quarter of 2020 was $6,000 compared to a negative $1 million for the same period in 2019. Provision expense for the year ended Dec. 31, 2020 was $16.2 million, compared to $1.4 million for 2019. The first quarter of 2020 included provision expense of $16.3 million related to the impact of the economic conditions related to COVID-19 on economic forecasts and other model assumptions relied upon by management in determining the allowance. Net charge-offs for the fourth quarter of 2020 were $630,000 compared to net charge-offs of $479,000 reported in the fourth quarter of 2019.

The allowance for credit losses represented 0.98 percent of total loans and leases at Dec. 31, 2020, up from 0.97 percent at Sept. 30, 2020, and 0.81 percent at Dec. 31, 2019. Nonperforming loans and leases totaled $45.8 million at Dec. 31, 2020, compared to $33.8 million at Sept. 30, 2020 and $31.4 million at Dec. 31, 2019. The ratio of the allowance to total nonperforming loans and leases was 112.87 percent at Dec. 31, 2020, down compared to 154.68 percent at Sept. 30, 2020 and 126.90 percent at Dec. 31, 2019. Nonperforming assets represented 0.60 of total assets at Dec. 31, 2020, up from 0.44 percent at Sept. 30, 2020, and up from 0.47 percent at Dec. 31, 2019.

Special Mention loans totaled $121.3 million at the end of the fourth quarter of 2020, in line with the quarter ended Sept. 30, 2020, and up compared to the $29.8 million reported for the fourth quarter of 2019. Total Substandard loans increased during the quarter to $68.6 million at Dec. 31, 2020, compared to $45.4 million at Sept. 30, 2020, and $60.5 million at Dec. 31, 2019. The increases in nonperforming loans and leases and Substandard loans were mainly related to the downgrades of credit in the loan portfolio related to the hospitality industry. Included in the nonperforming and Substandard loans and leases are 17 loans totaling $17.8 million, that are currently in deferral status.

During 2020, overall credit quality was supported by several plans initiated by the Company in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. As previously announced, Tompkins initiated and participated in a number of credit initiatives to support customers who have been impacted by the economic conditions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. The Company implemented a payment deferral program to assist both consumer and business borrowers that may be experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19. Weekly deferral requests for the month of December were down 98.5 percent from peak levels the Company experienced in late March. As of Dec. 31, 2020, total loans that continued in a deferral status amounted to approximately $212.2 million, representing 4 percent of total loans. Of loans that had come out of the deferral program as of Dec. 31, 2020, about 94.4 percent had made at least one payment and only 0.13 percent were more than 30 days delinquent.

As previously noted, the Company participated in the PPP, which provides borrower guarantees for lenders, as well as loan forgiveness incentives for borrowers that utilize the loan proceeds to cover employee compensation-related expenses and certain other eligible business operating costs, all in accordance with the rules and regulations established by the SBA. The Company began accepting applications for PPP loans on April 3, 2020, and had funded approximately 2,998 loans totaling about $465.6 million when the initial program ended. As of Dec. 31, 2020, approximately 1,484 PPP loans originated by the Company, totaling $244 million, had been submitted to the SBA for forgiveness under the terms of the PPP program, of which approximately 1,212 loans totaling $171.1 million had been forgiven by the SBA as of Dec. 31, 2020.

Romaine added, "Our deferral program and our participation in the PPP program are examples of how Tompkins has remained committed to supporting our clients and communities during these challenging times. Through year end, we had supported approximately 6,800 customers with these programs. We are also pleased to be participating in the latest round of PPP financing and as of January 28, 2021 had submitted 1,007 PPP loan applications totaling $143.9 million to the SBA for approval."

CAPITAL POSITION
Capital ratios remained well above the regulatory minimums for well capitalized institutions. The ratio of Total Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets improved to 14.39 at Dec. 31, 2020, up from 14.26 percent at Sept. 30, 2020, and 13.53 percent at Dec. 31. The ratio of Tier 1 capital to average assets was 8.75 percent at Dec. 31, 2020, compared to 8.85 percent at Sept. 30, 2020, and 9.61 percent at Dec. 31, 2019. The Dec. 31, 2020 Tier 1 capital to average assets ratio was negatively impacted by balance sheet growth associated with the PPP loans originated in the second quarter of 2020.

ABOUT TOMPKINS FINANCIAL CORPORATION
Tompkins Financial Corporation is a financial services company serving the Central, Western, and Hudson Valley regions of New York and the Southeastern region of Pennsylvania. Headquartered in Ithaca, Tompkins Financial is parent to Tompkins Trust Company, Tompkins Bank of Castile, Tompkins Mahopac Bank, Tompkins VIST Bank, Tompkins Insurance Agencies Inc., and offers wealth management services through Tompkins Financial Advisors. For more information on Tompkins Financial, visit http://www.tompkinsfinancial.com

Local union members join in protest against Walmart

By Howard B. Owens

walmartprotestjan2302021.jpg

Protests were held at several Walmarts around New York today, including Batavia, over concerns that Walmart has reportedly pressured GE-Savant to lower prices for lightbulbs, forcing the company to move a LED light factory from Ohio to China.

Press release:

On Saturday, Jan. 30, at Walmart stores at four locations in New York state, a coalition of labor and community groups will hold a protest as part of a national consumer awareness campaign informing the public of Walmart’s two-faced stance as a champion of “Made in America” products. 

LED light bulbs that are sold at Walmart are currently made by IUE-CWA workers at the GE-Savant Systems LLC lighting plant in Bucyrus, Ohio. GE-Savant recently announced that they intend to move the LED residential light bulb product line out of the facility to China, permanently laying off 80 workers, and putting the future of the plant in jeopardy.

The GE-Savant facility is one of the only residential lighting plants left in the USA, nearly all other residential light bulbs are now made in China.

Walmart’s website and TV ad campaign says “We are committed to American renewal. We believe we can create more American jobs by supporting more American manufacturing.” The coalition is calling on Walmart to live up to this promise. 

“This should be easy for Walmart,” said IUE-CWA International President Carl Kennebrew. “Walmart’s brand of LED Bulbs that now carry an ‘Assembled in the USA’ label are scheduled to be moved to China.

"Walmart can tell their supplier (GE-Savant) to cancel plans to ship them overseas. If Walmart is serious about supporting American manufacturing, this is how they can show it.”

“This is only the beginning,” said Ron Herrera, president of the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO. “Americans are waking up to the power of their spending dollar. When we choose to buy American, we are purchasing a product of the highest quality while investing in our communities and in our fellow Americans.

"Walmart must be part of the solution and invest more in our great nation and its people. The bulbs currently manufactured in Bucyrus, Ohio should continue to be made in Bucyrus, Ohio.”

USDA suspends past-due debt collections for Farm Service Agency loans

By Press Release

Due to the national public health emergency caused by coronavirus (COVID-19), the U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the temporary suspension of past-due debt collections and foreclosures for distressed borrowers under the Farm Storage Facility Loan and the Direct Farm Loan programs administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA).

USDA will temporarily suspend non-judicial foreclosures, debt offsets or wage garnishments, and referring foreclosures to the Department of Justice; and USDA will work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to stop judicial foreclosures and evictions on accounts that were previously referred to the Department of Justice.

Additionally, USDA has extended deadlines for producers to respond to loan servicing actions, including loan deferral consideration for financially distressed and delinquent borrowers. In addition, for the Guaranteed Loan program, flexibilities have been made available to lenders to assist in servicing their customers.

Today’s announcement by USDA expands previous actions undertaken by the Department to lessen financial hardship. According to USDA data, more than 12,000 borrowers—approximately 10 percent of all borrowers—are eligible for the relief announced today. Overall, FSA lends to more than 129,000 farmers, ranchers and producers.

“USDA and the Biden Administration are committed to bringing relief and support to farmers, ranchers and producers of all backgrounds and financial status, including by ensuring producers have access to temporary debt relief,” said Robert Bonnie, Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of the Secretary.

“Not only is USDA suspending the pipeline of adverse actions that can lead to foreclosure and debt collection, we are also working with the Departments of Justice and Treasury to suspend any actions already referred to the applicable Agency. Additionally, we are evaluating ways to improve and address farm related debt with the intent to keep farmers on their farms earning living expenses, providing for emergency needs, and maintaining cash flow.”

The temporary suspension is in place until further notice and is expected to continue while the national COVID-19 disaster declaration is in place.

USDA’s Farm Service Agency provides several different loans for producers, which fall under two main categories:

  • Guaranteed loans are made and serviced by commercial lenders, such as banks, the Farm Credit System, credit unions and other nontraditional lenders. FSA guarantees the lender’s loan against loss, up to 95 percent.
  • Direct loans are made and serviced by FSA using funds from the federal government.
The most common loan types are Farm Ownership, Farm Operating, and Farm Storage Facility Loans, with Microloans for each:
  • Farm Ownership: Helps producers purchase or enlarge a farm or ranch, construct a new or improve an existing farm or ranch building, pay closing costs, and pay for soil and water conservation and protection.
  • Farm Operating: Helps producers purchase livestock and equipment and pay for minor real estate repairs and annual operating expenses.
  • Farm Storage Facility Loans are made directly to producers for the construction of cold or dry storage and includes handling equipment and mobile storage such as refrigerated trucks.
  • Microloans: Direct Farm Ownership, Operating Loans, and Farm Storage Facility Loans have a shortened application process and reduced paperwork designed to meet the needs of smaller, nontraditional, and niche-type operations.

Contact FSA

FSA encourages producers to contact their county office to discuss these programs and temporary changes to farm loan deadlines and the loan servicing options available. For Service Center contact information, visit farmers.gov/coronavirus. For servicing information, access farmers.gov.

St. Paul Lutheran School teams up with Applebee's for 'Carryout for a Cause' fundraiser tomorrow

By Press Release

Press release:

In order to earn funds for tuition assistance, St. Paul Lutheran School of Batavia is “hosting” a Carryout for a Cause Fundraiser through the local Applebee’s.

The event will run all day on Wednesday, Jan. 27 (11 a.m. until close at 10 p.m.).

Supporters simply have to order To Go, online via applebees.com or the Applebee’s mobile app and use Promo Code “DOINGOOD” at checkout.

Orders must be placed for pick-up at the restaurant, located at 8322 Lewiston Road, Batavia.

View the menu here.

More information on St. Paul Lutheran School’s fundraiser here.

Carryout for a Cause is a takeout-only fundraiser where supporters order their Applebee’s favorites online at applebees.com or via the mobile app on a designated day. In return for promoting this “event” to their supporters, the nonprofit organization like St. Paul's earns 15 percent of sales, before tax and gratuity. 

More information on the Carryout for a Cause fundraiser, in addition to all community support programs, can be found at tlcneighborhood.com. To request a “Carryout for a Cause” event, groups can submit here and will receive a response in 2-3 business days.   

T.L. Cannon Companies has a long history of giving back to the communities they serve. The foundation of its business is commitment to the community and making a positive impact on the neighborhoods it serves. In 2019, the organization provided more than $1.6 million in support of local charities and organizations, and more than $26.4 million since 2008.

About T.L. Cannon Companies

T.L. Cannon Companies is a private owner/operator of 59 Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar restaurants in Upstate New York, Connecticut and Sayre, Pennsylvania. In 2020, the company was recognized within the Applebee’s system for the eighth time as “Applebee’s Neighbor of the Year” for their support and involvement in the neighborhoods they serve. For the past thirteen consecutive years, the company was awarded the New York State Restaurant Association’s “Restaurant Neighbor Award” for their community-based programs. In 2015, T.L. Cannon was recognized at the national level for the industry with the National Restaurant Association’s “Restaurant Neighbor Award” for their support of community.

STAMP reportedly on Samsung's shortlist for $13 billion chip manufacturing plant

By Howard B. Owens

South Korean technology company Samsung is reportedly eyeing WNY STAMP, along with two locations in Texas, for the construction of a $13 billion chip manufacturing plant.

Citing The Wall Street Journal (paywall), The Hill reports, Samsung aims to become the leader in the $400 billion industry and needs a plant in the Uniited States to make that happen.

Sen. Charles Schumer was in Alabama in August to discuss a congressional push to increase semiconductor manufacturing in the United States as a matter of national defense. The National Defense Authorization Act has not yet been funded.

The Hill reports that Samsung is looking to negotiate with federal officials for financial incentives to build the plant in the United States because it would be cheaper to develop its product in other parts of the world. 

Reportedly, Samsung’s goal is to have a chip-making plant operational by October 2022 and to employ 1,900 people.

Chamber announces 2020 award winners, virtual ceremony date to be determined

By Press Release

Press release:

The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its 49th Annual Awards Ceremony and the 2020 award recipients. Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic the celebration will look much different this year.

The event will be a prerecorded virtual event with release date yet to be determined. It is very important to the Chamber to continue to honor businesses and Geneseeans especially during this most trying time.   

We are honored to announce the 2020 award recipients:

This year’s honorees are:

Business of the Year -- Pellegrino Auto Sales       

Agricultural Business of the Year -- L&M Specialty Fabrication LLC   

Special Service Recognition of the Year -- Rochester Regional Health/United Memorial Medical Center                   

Geneseean of the Year -- Tammy Hathaway

Hawley rallies alongside Assembly Minority colleagues to pass COVID-19 economic recovery plan

By Press Release

Press release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley announced today with his Assembly Minority colleagues the “Jump-Start New York” plan for economic recovery.

It's a comprehensive package of legislative proposals that would restore the power of the Legislature by reining in Gov. Cuomo’s executive powers and focus New York’s available financial resources toward economic recovery for “nonessential” small businesses that have lost income due to the governor’s pandemic restrictions through direct aid grants. 

“This package of legislation does exactly what we need to be doing right now in our state, getting the Legislature back to work for the communities they represent and helping the small businesses and families within those communities that have suffered for far too long under onerous restrictions imposed by the governor using his expanded powers,” Hawley said. 

The program’s funds would be drawn from unallocated settlement funds and capital programs such as START-UP NY, and additional stimulus would be made available by making small businesses eligible for the Film Tax Credit.

Additionally, these small businesses would be granted a 180-day grace period to remedy regulatory violations without being fined and also be granted an extra 180 days to file their sales taxes. The legislative package would assist “nonessential” businesses located within the governor’s Red and Orange Zones by prompting a reevaluation of the businesses that could open, while maintaining proper social distancing practices.

In addition, Jump-Start New York would give targeted relief to farmers and renters who have had their incomes impacted by Gov. Cuomo’s restrictions during COVID-19. Landlords who have gone without income would receive a tax credit to help offset their losses, while farmers would see regulatory expenses and requirements loosened and eligibility standards for funding broadened.

The package would also assist farmers and rural business owners in general by expanding rural broadband access, which would help them expand their markets among other benefits.

“Focusing available financial resources on our small businesses that have been struggling to remain operational is just common sense, so I’m hopeful we see ‘Jump-Start New York’ get passed for the sake of the small business owners and their employees who have had their lives upended this last year,” Hawley said.

ESL credit union distributes $15M in additional Owners' Dividend payout

By Press Release

Press release:

ESL Federal Credit Union today announced it has distributed $15 million to members in an additional Owners’ Dividend payout for 2020. 

Today’s distribution supplements the advance Owners’ Dividend payout of $20 million issued to members in June 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Totaling $35 million for the year, this marks ESL’s largest Owners’ Dividend ever.

“With this additional $15 million Owners’ Dividend payout to members and the $20 million payout from back in June, the $35 million paid in total to members for 2020 upholds our commitment to sharing our financial success with our members,” said Faheem Masood, president and CEO, ESL Federal Credit Union.

“The trust and loyalty of our members throughout our 100 years of serving Greater Rochester allows us to pay out this additional $15 million and supports our purpose of helping our community thrive and prosper in what has been an unprecedented and uncertain time for our community.”

With this latest distribution, ESL has now shared more than $185 million with its members over the program’s 25-year history.

The individual Owners’ Dividend payout amounts ESL members receive are based on established Owners’ Dividend criteria. For more information about the criteria, please visit www.esl.org/about-us/the-esl-difference/owners-dividend.

Qualification for the Owners’ Dividend is subject to eligibility requirements, and payment of the Owners’ Dividend is not guaranteed.

About ESL Federal Credit Union

With more than 100 years of locally owned history, ESL Federal Credit Union serves as a full-service financial institution to more than 374,000 members and 11,400 businesses. Founded in 1920, the company provides personal banking, business banking, mortgage services and wealth management services through its locally based 22-branch network; telephone, mobile and online banking; and live chat center.

The Rochester-based financial institution employs more than 860 people in the Greater Rochester area and holds more than $8 billion in assets. Since 1996, ESL has paid out 26 consecutive Owners’ Dividends to its members, totaling more than $185 million. The company has appeared on the Great Place to Work® Best Small & Medium Workplaces list for 10 years, since 2010. ESL Federal Credit Union is headquartered at 225 Chestnut Street, in Rochester and can be found online at www.esl.org

Good news for farmers and their workforce: feds streamline and modernize H-2A visa program

By Press Release

Press release:

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today issued a statement applauding the Department of Labor’s final rule modernizing the H-2A visa program:

“This final rule streamlining and modernizing the H-2A visa process will go a long way in ensuring American farmers have access to a stable and skilled workforce, all while removing unnecessary bureaucratic processes," Secretary Perdue said.

"USDA’s goal is to help farmers navigate the complex H-2A program that is administered by Department of Labor, Department of Homeland Security, and the State Department so hiring a farm worker is an easier process. These modernizations make the Federal government more responsive to our customers, ensuring American agriculture continues to lead the world for years to come.”

Background

The final rule will streamline the H-2A application process by mandating electronic filing of job orders and applications. These elements are designed to bring the H-2A application process into the digital era, by harnessing the power of the FLAG electronic filing system to share information with other federal agencies like the Department of Homeland Security while also sharing information with the State Workforce systems and domestic farmworkers.

Additionally, the final rule will provide additional flexibilities to cut down on unnecessary burdens on the agricultural employers that use the program. These flexibilities include the ability to stagger the entry of workers into the country over a 120-day period and allowing agricultural employers the flexibility to file a single application for different dates of need instead of multiple applications. 

Jacobs announces SBA webinar tomorrow on the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant

By Press Release

Press release:

Congressman Chris Jacobs (NY-27) is announcing a webinar hosted by the Small Business Administration (SBA) to discuss the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant.

“I first want to commend the SBA for their tireless work to support our small businesses and our communities," Jacobs said. “One of my top priorities since taking office has been to deliver economic relief to support millions of American small businesses.

"When we passed the most recent COVID-19 aid package, not only did we deliver $284 billion to support the Paycheck Protection Program, but we also enacted additional provisions such as the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits, and Venues Act that continue to represent our commitment to a strong American comeback."

This legislation allocated $15 billion to the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program, which offers up to $10 million in grant funding to eligible organizations. The webinar will take place on Jan. 14th at 3 p.m. EST, and will cover eligibility, accessibility of grants, and the application process. 

Please be advised this webinar will fill up fast, if additional sessions become available an update will be provided.

To register for the webinar, visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/shuttered-venue-operators-grant-webinar-registration-136050549857?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery  

In addition, the Paycheck Protection Program is currently open to both first time recipients and applicants seeking a second draw. The funding is being distributed through Community Financial Institutions.

To be eligible for a second loan, a borrower must meet the following criteria:

1) Received a first-time loan and has or will use the full amount for authorized uses;

2) Has no more than 300 employees, and

3) Can demonstrate at least a 25-percent reduction in gross receipts between comparable quarters in 2019 and 2020.

For more information on the Paycheck Protection Program, please visit: https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options/paycheck-protection-program.

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