Informative ‘Coffee & Comment’ Session Scheduled for Local Businesses

Lebanon, Tennessee  (November 14, 2008) — CedarStone Bank and the Eastern Middle Tennessee Association of REALTORS® (EMTAR) are hosting the first of a series of informational sessions for local businesses called “Coffee & Comment.” The event will be held on Tuesday, November 25 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. in the Baird Chapel at Cumberland University. The session is free of charge and open to the business community. Seating, however, will be limited; reservations are suggested. Coffee and muffins will be served.

According to Bobby Wood, President and owner of RE/MAX Carriage House, and President of EMTAR, “The real estate industry is the heart and soul of the national and local economy. It is important for individuals affiliated with our industry to be informed and motivated to lead us to an improved economic future.” Adds Bob McDonald, President and CEO of CedarStone Bank, “Though there is uncertainty in the economy now, there are many positive elements in the overall economic conditions. I think it is important that we discuss those.”

Speakers at the Coffee & Comment session include experts in three important fields. Greg Gonzales, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Financial Institutions, will give an update on the state of the banking industry and recent developments to insure the soundness of financial institutions. Bill Bryson, a financial consultant with AXA Advisors, will speak on the historically strong performance of the stock market and how history will likely repeat itself. Max Melnikov, PhD, Professor of Economics at Cumberland University, will talk about the strong elements of the local economy.

Business people interested in attending the first Coffee & Comment should RSVP to Debbie Whited, CedarStone Bank, by calling (615) 547-5584 or emailing dwhited@cedarstonebank.com.