By By Janet Little Cooper
More than 100 people converged on United Bank Tuesday evening for the bank's grand re-opening gala, which included the Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours.
The bank's unveiling kicked off at 5 p.m. with a welcome and announcements made by the bank president Bob Jones.
"Mr. Jones is going to acknowledge the contractors and sub contractors who helped us achieve the renovations in his opening remarks," United Bank's marketing director, Nick Smith said in an interview prior to the event.
After the opening remarks guest were treated with live entertainment and a lavish spread of heavy Hors D'oeuvres as well as a tour of the new facility.
"Tours will be given of the second and third floors, where representatives from each department will be on hand to describe what takes place in that particular area," Baggett said. "Guests will also have a complimentary map showing the floor plan of the facility enabling them to move around at their own pace."
Tours of the newly renovated Agri-Finance building located at the back of the bank were also a part of the gala event.
"We are really proud of the Agri-Finance building renovations," Baggett said. "We have a whole new staff over there and now new facilities to go with them. They are doing very well over there."
Officers and staff from all of the United Bank branches were on hand at the grand re-opening.
"This is not just about Atmore," Baggett said. "The entire bank as a whole is excited about the remodeling. They are all happy to be a part of it. We are also excited about finally being able to host the Business After Hours again and at the same time show off the new facilities."
Areas of interest for the guest were the changes implemented in the first floor lobby such as the Internet caf/, children's area, and the Gallery.
"We are glad to see our customers enjoying the changes in the lobby," Baggett said. "We are real excited about the new children's play area and are proud of it. It has been put to good use already. Customers are also utilizing the Internet caf/ as well and seem to be enjoying the coffee and the use of the computers. Another popular spot in the lobby is in a corner where we will feature local artist drawings, paintings or pictures. We currently have photographs by Wesley Channel on display. From what I understand we have a pretty good little waiting list going for that spot already."
United Bank underwent extensive remodeling efforts after being heavily damaged in Hurricanes Ivan and Dennis.