Community banks across the country report that deposits are increasing, retail and business customers are joining, and lending has risen. A survey of community bankers nationwide by the Independent Community Bankers of America and Aite Group, LLC concluded that of the 743 responses 55 percent saw deposits rise. New retail customers increased by 57 percent, and new business customers rose by 47 percent. Loans have increased at 40 percent of the banks responding, but 73 percent of respondents reported an increase in loan delinquencies and charge-offs since the start of the banking crisis. The Business Journal will be reporting on the performance of San Fernando Valley area community banks and larger banks serving the region in the March 16 issue. Linda Coburn