Florida Bank Creates Mortgage Banking Unit

Florida Bank Group Inc., Tampa, Fla., has created a new mortgage banking unit, Florida Bank Mortgage. The company has hired Randy Freese to lead its residential mortgage efforts. "In response to the recent developments in the mortgage origination market, we believe that community banks are well positioned to expand into this market by virtue of the relationship of trust we enjoy with our customers," Mr. Freese said. Florida Bank Mortgage will offer mortgage services statewide in Florida.