Alan Fleming The Small Business Assistance Corporation (SBAC) recently held its annual Luncheon to recognize and pay tribute to its volunteers, financial supporters, economic development associates, lending partners and small business borrowers. "Your service to SBAC and the Small Business Community has made a difference," said SBAC Chair Marie Murphy. Murphy said that since its inception, SBAC has made 1,210 loans totaling over $90 million. She said the organization is now offering the "Green Solutions" Loan Program to promote and support emerging eco-friendly "green business" initiatives.

The SBAC Small Business Banker of the Year award was presented to Alan Fleming of First National Bank.

Fleming currently serves as the Division President for First National Bank. He has been with First National Bank since June, 2002 and was part of the original group of bankers involved with opening First National Bank. Allen is an active community volunteer who currently serves on the Loan Committee for Small Business Assistance Corporation and is the Chair- Elect for 2009. He is also involved with the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and was past Treasurer of the Treutlen House, a home for boys in Effingham County.

Joe-Ellen Hassan at the Georgetown Veterinary Hospital. The 2008 "Michael Bunn, Sr., Rising Star Award" went to Joe-Ellen Hassan and Concetta Hassan, owners of Georgetown Veterinary Hospital, Inc.

It was always Dr. Hassan's intention to own her own clinic and in 2006 with the assistance of an SBA 504 loan and SBAC Microloan she and her mother opened Georgetown Veterinary Hospital. The SBA 504 loan allowed them to construct a 3,750 square foot veterinary facility in the Georgetown section of Savannah at 21 Brasseler Boulevard. Georgetown's revenue grew by 50% from 2006 to 2007 and the Hassans anticipate a banner year ending for 2008.