Connecticut Banking, 1Q 2013

First Quarter 2013

WHEN SANDY HIT, BANKS WERE READY CBA ANNOUNCES 2012-2013 OFFICERS GET TO KNOW JOHN PATRICK, 2013 CHAIRMAN OF THE CBA NEW LEADERS HONOREES

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First Quarter 2013

WHEN SANDY HIT, BANKS WERE READY CBA ANNOUNCES 2012-2013 OFFICERS GET TO KNOW JOHN PATRICK, 2013 CHAIRMAN OF THE CBA NEW LEADERS HONOREES

COVER STORY

When Sandy Hit, Banks Were Ready............................................ 10 Like All Good Neighbors, Connecticut’s Banks Stepped In After Disaster

CONNECTICUT BANKERS ASSOCIATION

10 Waterside Dr. Farmington, CT 06032-3083 Telephone: 860-677-5060 • Fax: 860-677-5066 Chairman John J. Patrick, Jr.

Second Vice Chairman Stephen P. Reilly

First Vice Chairman Chandler J. Howard

President & CEO Lindsey R. Pinkham

Chairman, President & CEO Farmington Bank President & CEO Liberty Bank, Middletown

President & CEO Northwest Community Bank

Executive Vice President & Treasurer Thomas S. Mongellow First Senior Vice President & Secretary Colleen E. Clancy

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FEATURES

CBA Announces 2012-2013 Officers.................................... 4 Get to Know John Patrick, 2013 Chairman of the CBA......... 6 Connecticut’s Banking Industry Responds in Times of Trouble............................................................ ....9 New Leaders Honorees...................................................... 24 Meet the Future of Connecticut Banking

Connecticut Banking is an official publication of the Connecticut Bankers Association and is published quarterly by

The Warren Group Design / Production / Advertising www.thewarrengroup.com custompubs@thewarrengroup.com With the exception of official association announcements, the Connecticut Bankers Association and The Warren Group disclaim responsibility for opinions expressed in Connecticut Banking. This publication is intended and designed to provide accurate and authoritative information, not to provide legal, accounting or other professional advice.

CONNECTICUT BANKING Editor

Colleen E. Clancy

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a trademark of The Warren Group Inc. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher. Advertising, editorial and production inquiries should be directed to: The Warren Group, 280 Summer Street, Boston, MA 02210. Call 800-356-8805.

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Banks in the News..................................................................... 14 Bankers in the News.................................................................. 20

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Connecticut Banking Magazine • First Quarter 2013

CBA Announces 2012-2013 Officers

T JOHN J. PATRICK JR.

CHANDLER J. HOWARD

STEPHEN P. REILLY

he members of the Connecticut Bankers Association recently elected its officers for its 20122013 term ending November 2013.

Named chairman of the association was John J. Patrick Jr., chairman, president and CEO, Farmington Bank.

Patrick has been with the bank since 2008. He began his banking career as a college student working nights in the processing department of Connecticut Bank and Trust. Thirty years later, with extensive experience managing a broad array of banking services, he is leading the growth and expansion of a premier community bank in Connecticut. Patrick currently serves as chairman of the Board of Vantis Life Insurance Company, director of Hartford Health Care and director of the Central Connecticut State University Foundation, Inc. He graduated from Central Connecticut State University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, went on to the New England College of Banking at Williams College, and received a graduate degree in banking and financial services from Bentley College.

Named first vice chairman of the association was Chandler J. Howard, president and CEO, Liberty Bank, Middletown. Howard has been with the bank since 2007. He began his banking career as a teller at People’s Bank in 1974. During his career, he has worked at banking and nonbanking institutions, including First City Fund Corporation, Connecticut Innovations, Bank of America, Fleet Bank and People’s Bank. He graduated with a master’s degree in finance from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a bachelor’s degree

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from the University of Connecticut.

Known for his involvement with community organizations, he has received numerous awards, including the Hartford Courant’s Tapestry Award for his personal and corporate commitment to fostering diversity; the Champion of Children Award from the Village for Families and Children; the Corporate Leader of the Year Award from the Christian Activities Council; and, most recently, the Whitney M. Young Service Award from the Boy Scouts. He is always a strong, visible supporter for the United Way. Named second vice chairman of the association was Stephen P. Reilly, president and CEO, Northwest Community Bank, Winsted. Reilly has been with the bank for 16 years. Previously, he was employed by Union Trust Co. He graduated with honors from ACB’s National School of Banking and is a graduate of the University of Connecticut with a bachelor’s degree in marketing. He is well known in the community and involved with numerous community organizations including United Way, Torrington Rotary Club, Northwest CT Chamber, Northwestern Community College, Charlotte Hungerford Hospital, CT Community Bankers Association, and was chairman of the FISH/ Susan B. Anthony Golf Tournament, the Rotary Junior PGA Golf Classic and the 2010 United Way Annual Fundraising Campaign.

The other elected officers include: Past Chairman Martin J. Geitz, president and CEO, Simsbury Bank President and CEO Lindsey R. Pinkham continued on page 8

TWINKLE, TWINKLE, RISING STAR. WE’RE SO PROUD. YOU’LL GO FAR. Liberty Bank salutes employees Laura Bertekap and Donna Flynn who were just named New Leaders in Banking by the Connecticut Bankers Association and Connecticut Banking Magazine. You’re a credit to the bank and we’re so glad to have you on the team!

Laura Bertekap

Assistant Vice President Risk Management

Donna Flynn

First Vice President Small Business Solutions

Make a Statement.

SM

MEMBER FDIC. EQUAL HOUSING LENDER.

facebook.com/liberty

Connecticut Banking Magazine • First Quarter 2013

Get to Know John Patrick, 2013 Chairman of the CBA and ultimately have a negative impact on consumers and business to get credit.

Tell us about your banking career?

My banking career began in 1979, working second shift in the lock box department at Connecticut Bank & Trust.

From there I moved into consumer credit, where I held a variety of positions. Over the course of my early career I worked for several community banks that are all now part of larger regional banks due to acquisitions. I held positions in every area of the bank except for finance and IT. Prior to coming to Farmington Bank in 2008, I spent 14 years at Banknorth and its predecessor Glastonbury Bank and Trust, and succeeded Gil Soucie as the president in 1998.

Like many bank executives, you serve on many boards – how do you find the time?

Serving on boards is an important aspect to being a community bank CEO and sets the tone for others in the company to give back to the community.

I believe as a community bank, we are successful because the community supports us with their business and it is incumbent on us to make sure we give back to the community in a meaningful way. One of the things I am most proud of with my colleagues at Farmington Bank is the tremendous amount of human capital, through volunteer hours that we give to the community. Selfishly, as a CEO, I take away ideas about how other executives operate and manage their business. I find serving on a board a truly rewarding experience.

You recently were named chairman of the CBA – what are your goals for 2013?

My goals as chairman for the CBA are aligned with the organization’s strategic plan. I feel we need to continue with our public outreach and demonstrate that the banks in Connecticut are drivers of economic growth and we need to work in

Tell us about the bank’s ongoing branch expansion.

In 2008, we formulated a strategic plan to grow our company and diversify the deposit and revenue base. A portion of the plan outlined a growth strategy for our retail branches that would use technology and a non-traditional look and feel to reduce the size of the branch. Since 2009 we have opened seven new offices and will open two more this year in Newington and East Hartford.

JOHN J. PATRICK JR.

I FEEL WE NEED TO CONTINUE WITH OUR PUBLIC OUTREACH AND DEMONSTRATE THAT THE BANKS IN CONNECTICUT ARE DRIVERS OF ECONOMIC GROWTH. partnership with business, consumers and government to make our state stronger economically. Additionally, while we should be an industry that is regulated, in my opinion, the resulting regulation from Dodd-Frank and the CFBP has put considerable and unnecessary expense burdens on banks. Combined with margin compression and a growing expense base this could cause industry consolidation 6

Where do you think future areas of profitability will be for banks?

I believe future profitability for banks will still come from traditional sources – taking in deposits and making loans in our community. What we need to work on as an industry is to continually look to reduce our expense base through process improvement and efficiency. For example, why do we still have three or four different customer touch points in a branch?

Why can’t a customer service individual perform all services for a customer, from taking a deposit, to taking a loan application? We need to constantly look at our business model and make refinements and adapt to our customers life style.

How will banks deal with the regulatory burden, in both hard and soft costs?

The cost of regulation over the past several years has skyrocketed. Many believe you need scale and size to survive.

This will be the most challenging question boards will need to deal with over the next couple of years, as it is inevitable that capital levels will also be required to be higher. Many are predicting a significant wave of consolidation; others believe we must pass on the increased cost to our customers.

There continued on page 8

Connecticut Banking Magazine • First Quarter 2013

2012-2013 Officers continued from page 4

The CBA also elected others to its Executive Committee. In addition to the chairman, first vice chairman, second vice chairman, past chairman and president, the Executive Committee consists of nine at-large members and the co-chairs of the CBA’s Legislative Committee:

Edward O. Handy, president, RBS Citizens, CT and RI

Get to Know John Patrick

For at-large seats with terms expiring in November 2015: Michael J. Casparino, president, Northern Connecticut, People’s United Bank, Bridgeport David A. Lentini, chairman and CEO, Berkshire Bank-CBT Region, Hartford Gerald P. Plush, president, Webster Bank, N.A., Waterbury

is no easy answer, and each bank must tackle this issue strategically, as I don’t see the regulatory burden being reduced.

For at-large seats with terms expiring in November 2013: Richard J. Cantele, president and CEO, Salisbury Bank and Trust, Lakeville Kevin C. Merchant, president and CEO, Jewett City Savings Bank B. Michael Rauh, president and CEO, Chelsea Groton Bank, Groton

Legislative Committee Co-Chairs: Rheo A. Brouillard, president and CEO, Savings Institute Bank and Trust, Willimantic Charles F. Howell, president and CEO, The Wilton Bank

For at-large seats with terms expiring in November 2014: William H.W. Crawford, president and CEO, Rockville Bank Kevin J. Cunningham, president, Bank of America-Connecticut, Hartford

Renominated to the professional staff headquartered in Farmington: Thomas S. Mongellow, executive vice president and treasurer Colleen E. Clancy, first senior vice president and secretary u

continued from page 6

Is it still important to reach out to Washington on banking legislation, since it seems so dysfunctional?

I believe it is absolutely important to reach out to Washington on legislation.

As I mentioned, the extreme burden of regulation will have an economic impact on consumers and businesses’ ability to ultimately get credit. Lawmakers need to know and understand the consequences.

We need to go to Washington with stories backed by data and fact; otherwise complaining about regulation will fall on deaf ears. We all know that banks contribute a significant amount of their income to community organizations, more cost equates to less profit equates to less money being given back. I encourage all bankers to discuss this very real scenario with their congressmen and senator. u

Congratulations Jocelyn Mitchell On being recognized as our Connecticut Bankers Association New Leader Honoree On behalf of our directors, officers and employees, we join the CBA in appreciating your leadership and dedication to Simsbury Bank, its customers, staff and shareholders.

Take Your Banking Personally

sIMsBuRyBank.CoM MEMBER FDIC

Jocelyn Mitchell, AVP, Sr. Market Manager, Simsbury Bank

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First Quarter 2013 • Connecticut Banking Magazine

Connecticut’s Banking Industry Responds in Times of Trouble

T

he tragedy that occurred on Dec. 14 at the Sandy Hook Elementary School broke our hearts and the heart of the nation. Twenty children and six educators were lost to their families, friends, neighbors and the world. It is times like this when Connecticut’s banking community collectively demonstrates our industry’s compassion for the communities we serve. As we watched and waited over that anxiety-filled weekend, Newtown Savings Bank’s President and CEO John Trentacosta and bank employees were quickly and quietly working with the United Way of Western New England to establish what is now known as the Sandy Hook School Support Fund.

Donations were dropped off, mailed to or sent electronically to the bank. It has been reported that, as of this writing, over $8 million has been raised by this fund alone.

In the days that followed, we heard from many member banks that they too would coordinate their fundraising efforts to the Sandy Hook School Support Fund and other community organizations in Newtown. Donations soon poured in from customers and bank employees alike. Whether it was Quinnipiac Bank & Trust, or Bank of America, which exercised its national fund-raising reach, bankers just wanted to help. We continue to hear from members like Dime Bank,

9

Chelsea Groton Bank, First County Bank and Liberty Bank – to name but a few – regarding their corporate donations, foundation donations and employee donations to the Sandy Hook School Support Fund.

Many banks have matched or double or even tripled their employee’s generosity.

While we recognize that the banking industry is not the only industry involved in the healing process, appreciation is in order for Connecticut banks and bankers.

Whether it’s a super storm named Sandy or a Halloween snowstorm, Connecticut’s bankers are here for their customers and communities. u

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First Quarter 2013 • Connecticut Banking Magazine

WHEN SANDY HIT, BANKS WERE READY

By Laura Alix When a natural disaster hits, most people probably don’t think of their hometown brickand-mortar bank as a refuge or safe haven, but it makes sense. The bank serves a vital role in the community and, as such, it most certainly has a vested interest in the community’s well-being. And the bank probably has generators, too.

“After a natural disaster, the first thing people are looking for is power, water and cash, so it’s kind of a natural response for people to start looking for an ATM or a place where they can find cash, and when you don’t have power, that can be complicated,” said Melissa Shuffield, a spokesperson for JP Morgan Chase Bank.

So in response, Chase Bank, which calls the storm-battered tri-state area home, expanded credit for its commercial customers, helped small businesses process payroll when their power went down, and

even sent a mobile banking trailer to the Rockaways and Nassau County in New York.

But aside from basic needs like cash, credit and electricity, many of the Connecticut banks that stepped up in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy offered a little something more.

“I think most people were happy to have some place to go. A lot of people just wanted to come in and talk about what had happened. It was kind of a social gathering place after the storm,” Chelsea Groton Bank President Michael Rauh said. continued on page 12

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Connecticut Banking Magazine • First Quarter 2013

When Sandy Hit continued from page 11

Indeed, banks across Connecticut’s shoreline opened their doors to their communities, with or without power. When it was safe to do so, they cashed checks, forgave overdraft fees and late fees on loans, and offered simple creature comforts – a hot cup of coffee, maybe, or a bit of friendly conversation.

“We had people come into our lobbies just to sit and read the paper and feel the heat,” said Margaret Livingston, president of Guilford Savings Bank.

Often, banks had power or generators when many residents did not, and they were only too happy to avail those luxuries to locals who lost electricity in the storm.

“We asked our branches to put out coffee for everybody. If anybody needed to make photocopies or charge cell phones or laptops, they were welcome to do that,” Rauh added.

Fairfield County Bank President Dan Berta told a similar story.

At those branches that still had power, people were free to come in and charge their phones and laptops.

Doing What They Do Best But mostly, the banks did what banks do best. Connecticut’s community banks were ready for the power outages, downed ATMs and people in need of cash to purchase food, gas, potable water and other much-needed supplies. Community banks have a special advantage in this situation.

“In some locations where we had no power, we’d let customers

in one at a time. We knew the customers, so we could cash that check and take the risk,” Berta said.

Rey Giallongo, CEO and board chairman at First County Bank, said his bank stationed branch managers and assistant managers at those locations that closed, so they could direct customers to the branches nearby that were open.

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First Quarter 2013 • Connecticut Banking Magazine

The staffers also collected night deposit bags from banks without power, brought them to open branches for processing, and then hand-delivered them back to their rightful owners so local businesses could stay afloat.

Milford Bank branches cashed checks outside of its normal hold rules for people who needed the money right away and waived various fees for those affected by the storm, president Bob Macklin said.

Prepared, Just In Case Greg Shook, president and CEO of Essex Savings Bank, said that since the storm was at the end of the month, it did not create any problems with late fees on loans at his bank, but they were nevertheless prepared to accommodate that problem should it arise.

He said the bank also obtained a list of nearby gas stations that were still operating and distributed it to branch managers, so they could provide that information to customers. Additionally, the bank had handy a list of emergency shelters and other resources for people dealing with the fallout from Sandy.

“You could call the town hall, but you might find the line busy,” Shook said.

“We were just being helpful neighbors and doing anything we could think of along those lines.”

Anticipating that some homeowners might need an immediate credit source to pay for damages not covered by their insurance, some banks offered quick turnarounds on a low-interest, nofee loan in smaller amounts intended to replace a ruined refrigerator or a destroyed dishwasher.

“It’s a very simple, fast turn-around time on an unsecured personal loan up to $10,000 to help with whatever they needed for storm-related losses,” Rauh said of the special loan product that Chelsea Groton Bank rolled out during Sandy’s wake.

Special Services and Personal Service Fairfield County Bank, which also deals in insurance, deployed its army of insurance agents to work with customers dealing with storm damage. And indeed, the need was great.

“We saw claim volume from this 13

storm more than double over what we saw in last year’s snow storm and Irene,” Berta said.

Livingston said she and her team had learned a few lessons from Irene, so they started planning for the storm on the prior Friday night. Knowing their employees would not be exempt from the storm’s toll, the human resources department processed payroll early, so staff would be paid on time.

Guilford Savings Bank also harnessed the power of social media and text messaging, setting up a private Facebook page to coordinate efforts among the bank’s management and a public Facebook page to better serve customers.

Connecticut was not hit as hard as New York and New Jersey, and the shoreline and Fairfield County have been pretty well cleaned up at this point, but these banks, and others, have contributed to ongoing charity efforts, both nationally and at home. Livingston said her head of marketing, an alumnus of Staten Island’s Williams College, took up a collection for supplies for a shelter

there, filled a U-Haul truck with clothing and other supplies, and drove it to its destination less than a week after Sandy hit.

“I think that’s the hallmark of a community bank or a mutual bank,” Giallongo said. “We had an assistant manager sitting in an unheated branch for five days. That’s a testament to the service that we try to provide.”

Though cash is certainly important, the banks that stepped up after Sandy left her mark upon the state offered something a little less tangible, but no less important: conversation, information, and the sense that normalcy would soon return.

As Berta neatly summed up, “It’s the little things like going to the bank and seeing familiar faces and sharing stories.

In many cases, maybe the bank is where you learn what’s going on.” u Laura Alix is a staff writer for The Warren Group, publisher of Connecticut Banking magazine.

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Connecticut Banking Magazine • First Quarter 2013

BANKSintheNEWS

Office Lending Head Brian Charlebois; Betsy O’Connor, Bridgeport Alliance for Young Children; and Bridgeport Regional Business Council CEO Paul Timpanelli.  Chelsea Groton Bank premiered a freshened logo, a new radio, print and online ad campaign, and tailor-made loan products and services to appeal to its broad-based business and retail customers to emphasize and illuminate the many ways its customers benefit from the bank’s focus on mutuality, or shared trust, purpose and respect. The bank further plans to roll out updated signage and décor, state-of-the-art telecommunication equipment and more.

 Bank of America employees gathered to collect monetary donations, as well as turkeys and holiday food items, for FoodShare and the Food Bank of Lower Fairfield County, for Turkey Tuesday.

In addition to Turkey Tuesday, employees across the state focused on hunger initiatives throughout the month by volunteering at local soup kitchens, stocking pantry shelves and donating food to various food drives.

Chelsea Groton Bank announced its employees contributed $34,286 to the 2012-2013 United Way campaign. Chelsea Groton made a 50 percent match to employee contributions and donated $17,143. Overall, $51,348 in employee pledges and corporate matches will be invested in the community through the United Way of Southeastern CT. Thirty-two non-profit organizations received grants from Chelsea Groton Foundation, Inc., including disabled veterans entering the University of Connecticut’s Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Disabled Returning Veterans, who will receive new laptops, courtesy of Work Vessels for Veterans.

Bank of America volunteers partnered with the CT Fund for the Environment and with Save the Sound to clean up debris from Hurricane Sandy and clear the boardwalk at Silver Sands State Park in Milford.

Chelsea Groton Bank employees raised $2,000 for Noank Group Homes and Support Services by holding a basket raffle. The funds will be used to support the organization’s three therapeutic group homes for girls.

 Local organizations benefitted from a recent Bank of Fairfield checking promotion that enabled new checking customers to designate a donation to a local charity. Shown at the check presentation are, from left: Donna Twist, executive director, Norma F. Pfriem Breast Care Center; Bank of Fairfield Director of Development Bob Hojnacki; Tina Varick. Evelyn Kennedy Center; Kevin Simmons, assistant executive director, Wakeman Girls and Boys Club; Operation Hope Executive Director Carla Miklos; Bank of Fairfield President Bob Palermo; and Joe Carbone, president and CEO, The Workplace.

Chelsea Groton Bank employees, led by Waterford Branch Manager Anne Ogden, decorated a tree for the Ninth Annual Festival of Trees. Auctioned in December, the tree raised $360 to benefit the New London Community Meal Center.

 Berkshire Bank celebrated its partnership with Connecticut Bank and Trust with a customer appreciation week. The celebration included a variety of special events, promotions, and giveaways, including Berkshire Bank team members popping up throughout the community with unexpected surprises.  Collinsville Savings Society made the second of five yearly installments in support of the Canton Historical Museum. Pictured, from left: Don Scott, Carol Barlow, Gary Roman, Marge Harmon, Dennis Cardello, Lorinda Pane and Charlie Whitney.

 BNC Financial Group, the holding company for The Bank of New Canaan, The Bank of Fairfield and Stamford First Bank, held the grand opening of its Bridgeport loan offices, where donations to Family Services Woodfield, Good Schools Bridgeport and the Bridgeport Alliance for Young Children were made. Pictured, from left: Dawn Hatcher, Family Services Woodfield; Mayor Bill Finch; Heidi DeWyngaert, Fire Chief Brian Rooney; Joshua Thompson, Good Schools Bridgeport’ BNC Financial Group Bridgeport

 Dime Bank supported the Kids’ Christmas Annual Toy Fund by providing assistance and a $250 donation. Several Dime Bank “Blue Crew” members donated their lunch hour and wrapped over 100 toys, which were handed out at 14

First Quarter 2013 • Connecticut Banking Magazine

Pelletier, commander, Disabled American Veterans, Hardware City Chapter 8; Kinson Perry, area manager, external and legislative affairs, AT&T (platinum sponsor); and Jadwiga Panus, vice president and branch manager, Farmington Bank.

the Annual Kids’ Christmas Party. Picture are John Keating, Erica Gee, and Lynn Roberts, Dime Bank; Liz Hall, KIDS Christmas; and Gale Ennis, Dime Bank.

Dime Bank raised money for two local, non-profit fuel assistance programs through the sale of Dime Bank logoed ceramic piggy banks.

The bank donated $5 for each bank sold.

Farmington Bank was recognized as the number-one small business lender by the Small Business Association (SBA) of Connecticut. For SBA’s fiscal year 2011-2012, Farmington Bank approved 57 loans, totaling $8,628,000.

Dime Bank began its collaboration with Our Piece of the Pie, a nonprofit agency that helps young people attain a mix of educational, employment, and personal skills. Students go through eight weeks of financial education modules. Upon completion, students are awarded a Dime Academy diploma.  The Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut presented its highest award to Fairfield County Bank in recognition of its philanthropic commitment to arts and culture.

Farmington Bank partnered with Junior Achievement to educate students about financial fundamentals. Lou Golden, far left, president of Junior Achievement of Southwest New England, and John J. Patrick Jr., far right, chairman, president and CEO of Farmington Bank, flank two dozen Farmington Bank employees who taught classes recently at Holmes Elementary School in New Britain.

Farmington Bank’s West Hartford branch office hosted the WTIC Holiday Store Benefitting The Salvation Army. The community was invited to donate non-perishable food items, clothing, unwrapped toys and monetary donations. Pictured at the recent event are James Gordon, director of public relations and marketing, Southern New England Division of The Salvation Army; Roshan Patel, assistant vice president and branch manager of Farmington Bank’s West Hartford office; Ray Dunaway; and John Patrick, chairman, president and CEO of Farmington Bank. 

First County Bank Foundation marked a milestone of more than $5 million in grants to area nonprofits over its 11-year history. Pictured, from left: Karen Kelly, senior vice president, chief marketing officer, First County Bank; Judy Levine, executive director, Cause Effective; Katherine Harris, president and COO, First County Bank; and Rey Giallongo, chairman and CEO, First County Bank. 

First County Bank officers gathered with business leaders to launch First County Advisors (formerly the Trust and Investment Department).

Pictured is guest speaker Philip Orlando, CFA, senior vice president and chief equity market strategist, Federated Investors. 

Farmington Bank celebrated the opening of its first South Windsor branch banking office. Three South Windsor-based community groups received donations from the Farmington Bank Community Foundation. Pictured at the check presentation are, from left: John Wadhams, director, Wood Memorial Library; John J. Patrick Jr., chairman, president and CEO, Farmington Bank; and Paul Oates, board president of Wood Memorial Library. Also receiving donations were the South Windsor Historical Society and the South Windsor Food & Fuel Bank.

First County Bank mobilized after Hurricane Sandy to help the Food Bank of Lower Fairfield County by donating 2,300 pounds of much needed items.

First, 112 turkeys (1,650 pounds) were delivered in time for Thanksgiving and then, more than 670 pounds of non-perishable items from the annual employee food drive. Pictured, from left: Maria Sturges, First County Bank; Greg Palmer, Palmer’s Supermarket; Michael Victor; and Nunzio Golia, Palmer’s Supermarket.

Farmington Bank was a presenting sponsor at The Golden Kielbasa Veterans Open charity golf tournament, which raised $10,000 for the New Britain Chapter of the Disabled American Veterans, Purple Heart Homes and for the placement of American flags in the veteran’s section of the city of New Britain’s Fairview Cemetery.

Pictured, from left: Mayor Timothy O’Brien, New Britain; William Kochanowski, commander, Northwestern Veterans, T.G.M. Memorial Post (event host); John Gallina, co-founder, Purple Heart Homes; Ron

First County Bank volunteers teamed up with President and COO Katherine Harris and Popeye to take part in the Stamford Balloon Parade Spectacular, known as the secondlargest helium balloon parade in the country.

Pictured: First County Bank employee at the 2012 Stamford Balloon Parade Spectacular. continued on page 16 15

Connecticut Banking Magazine • First Quarter 2013

BANKSintheNEWS

continued from page 15

First County Bank hosted its first seminar for business owners discussing the importance of fraud prevention and detection called “Prevention is a State-of-Mind.”

Attendees learned that combating account takeover is a shared responsibility between businesses and financial institutions.

Left: Peter Rugen, senior vice president, information security officer, First County Bank. Right: John Bonora, first vice president, director of operational risk and compliance, First County Bank.

First Niagara Bank sponsored the 2012 Survey of Connecticut Businesses, produced by the Connecticut Business & Industry Association and the University of New Haven’s Center for Family Business, which illustrated the challenges, concerns and growth prospects for this important sector of the state’s economy. Jim Bzdyra, First Niagara’s senior vice president of commercial banking for the New England region, addressed attendees at a press conference announcing survey results. 

First Niagara co-hosted the “Fill-A-Truck” donation drive to gather supplies to help residents of Staten Island rebuild after Hurricane Sandy.

First Niagara also donated $100,000 to the American Red Cross in support of its Hurricane Sandy disaster relief efforts, created a bank-wide Red Cross donation account for customers, and established a “YouFirstNeighbor” loan program, allowing impacted customers to quickly receive unsecured, low-interest home improvement loans.

The Governor’s Prevention Partnership, a statewide nonprofit building a strong workforce through leadership in mentoring, recently presented the First Niagara Bank Foundation with a Leadership Award for its support of mentoring programs in Connecticut, during the annual Governor’s Luncheon. During the luncheon, First Niagara announced its continued support of GPP with a $100,000 contribution to fund 2013 mentoring initiatives. Pictured, from left: Jill Spineti, president and CEO, GPP; Janice C. Perkins, director of government relations, Connecticare, acting co-chair, GPP; Jim Bzdyra, New England regional senior vice president, commercial banking, First Niagara; and Gov. Dannel Malloy, co-chair, GPP. 

First Niagara received the 2012 Eagle Award for Top Dollar 7(a) Lender in Connecticut. Pictured, Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) presents the Eagle Award to First Niagara’s Chris Earle.

Jewett City Savings Bank announced a special $1,000 gift to be shared by five local food pantries. The donation was in response to a special “trade a token” campaign, with the bank committing to a $1 food pantry gift (up to $1,000 total) for each paper token returned. The free tokens were featured in special mailings, newspaper ads and online. The bank added an extra $1 for each new “like” received on its Facebook page. 

The First Niagara Bank Foundation sponsored the Connecticut Science Center’s newest permanent attraction, the Interactive Humanoid Robot exhibit. As part of its sponsorship, First Niagara hosted a Customer Appreciation Day at the center with discounted admission for customers and employees. Pictured: First Niagara Retail Banking Director for New England Marlene Piche.

Liberty Bank and 28 local Rotary Clubs raised over $141,000 to provide Thanksgiving food for needy families. The drive collected $116,303 in donations from employees, customers, and the public. The Liberty Bank Foundation provided $25,000 in matching funds for a total of $141,303. 

The First Niagara Bank Foundation was presented with the Visiting Nurse Association of South Central Connecticut’s 2012 Corporate Partnership Award.

Pictured: VNA Board Chairman Robert Motley; First Niagara’s David Ring; and VNA President and CEO John Quinn.

Liberty Bank hosted a threeweek children’s book drive at its 44 locations, collecting over 4,000 new and gently used books for donation to Branford-based Read to Grow, a nonprofit dedicated to early childhood literacy.

16

First Quarter 2013 • Connecticut Banking Magazine

Bank customers to decide how the foundation awards $50,000 in grant money to local charitable organizations. Last year the foundation awarded grants to 35 local charities under this program.

Burns, Brooks & McNeil, Litchfield Bancorp and Northwest Community Bank jointly sponsored the BLN Golf Tournament to benefit four local charities. A total of $25,000 was raised for The Susan B. Anthony Project, Fish, The Open Door of Winsted and The Communtiy Kitchen of Torrington Inc. This is the 12th year that the BLN Golf Tournament has taken place, contributing a total of $244,000 to these agencies over the years. 

The People’s United Community Foundation announced it awarded $610,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations throughout the communities it serves in Connecticut, New York, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine for the fourth quarter of 2012.

Ninety-five organizations received funding in support of programs that ranged from basic needs services and affordable housing projects to education and job training programs. 

Rockville Bank Foundation donated $25,000 on behalf of its customers to the Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross to help with the organization’s ongoing, local disaster relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. Pictured, from left: Rick Trachimowicz, president, Rockville Bank Foundation, head of human capital and organizational development, Rockville Bank; Marino Santarelli, COO, Rockville Bank; Joe Kuzma, senior development director, American Red Cross - Connecticut Chapter; Bill Crawford, president and CEO, Rockville Bank; Ray Lefurge Jr., chairman of the board, Rockville Bank; and Michael Bars, vice-chairman of the board, Rockville Bank. 

The Naugatuck Savings Bank Foundation awarded a $15,000 grant to Hidden Acres Therapeutic Riding Center, a nonprofit therapeutic equestrian riding center, serving children and adults with special needs.

Pictured, from left: Jayne Kelly, Naugatuck Savings Bank; Mary Simon, Hidden Acres; Carlos the horse; Liz Hocking, Hidden Acres; Sean Sears. 

Naugatuck Savings Bank committed to being the title sponsor of the Cheshire half marathon, 5K and kids run for the next three years. The event will be called the Naugatuck Savings Bank Cheshire Half Marathon and 5K. 

Salisbury Bank announced its 27th annual “We Believe” toy drive, collecting new unwrapped toys at all eight branches for local children. 

Naugatuck Savings Bank announced the grand opening of its new Wallingford branch, its 19th branch and the debut of a new open branch design concept featuring Personal Teller technology. Naugatuck Savings Bank is the first bank in Connecticut to deploy two uGenius Personal Tellers, powered by the uGenius Video Banking System. In addition to traditional bank hours, personal tellers are available for extended hours on Saturday, along with before and after typical bank hours on weekdays. Personal tellers give customers the ability to interact with a live teller through two-way video. Bank customers may conduct typical transactions through personal tellers, including making deposits and payments, transferring money, cashing checks and more. The new Wallingford branch marks Naugatuck Savings Bank’s fifth branch opening in two years. The new branch will be staffed with consultative personal bankers who can serve customers’ needs with everything from a new checking account to a mortgage or business loan. The branch also features a computer café and an investment center.

Savings Bank of Danbury congratulated John Lucas, winner of the raffle held at the Danbury Chamber’s Business to Business expo, who won a $100 gift certificate. Pictured, from left: John Bach, assistant vice president and branch manager, Bethel office; winner John Lucas, Cycling Sports Group, Bethel; George Herring, vice president, retail sales. 

Hady Andino was the winner of Savings Bank of Danbury’s recent iPad Sweepstakes. Pictured: Jessica Guaman, teller manager, Hayestown office; winner Hady Andino; Farley Santos, assistant branch manager, Hayestown office; and Lawrence DeSouza, float teller.

Savings Bank of Danbury Foundation awarded Ann’s Place a $6,500 grant. The grant will be used to fund the Men Together prostate 

The Naugatuck Savings Bank Foundation announced the Fourth Annual Community Awards Program, allowing Naugatuck Savings

continued on page 18

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Connecticut Banking Magazine • First Quarter 2013

BANKSintheNEWS

continued from page 17 Savings Institute Bank & Trust was a major sponsor of the Last Green Valley’s Walktober Autumn Celebration: an event comprised of more than 150 guided hikes, strolls, bike rides, paddles, horse rides and special events throughout 35 picturesque towns in northeastern Connecticut and south central Massachusetts.

cancer support group. Pictured: George Colabella, development director, Ann’s Place; Wilda Hayes, executive director, Ann’s Place; and Paul Dinto, director, Savings Bank of Danbury, immediate past president, Ann’s Place board of directors.

The Savings Bank of Danbury Foundation awarded Voice for Joanie a $1,000 grant. The grant will be used to purchase iPads with speaking programs for clients. Pictured: Kathy Romagnano, executive vice president and COO, Savings Bank of Danbury; Shirley Fredlund, founder and volunteer executive director, Voice for Joanie; and Frank Ruiz, vice president, board of directors, Voice for Joanie.

Thomaston Savings Bank Foundation, Inc. reconfirmed its financial commitment to the people within the communities it serves and announced total grant distributions exceeding $267,000 for 2012. Grants in excess of $2.8 million have been awarded since the foundation’s inception in 1997. Stephen L. Lewis, president, Thomaston Savings Bank Foundation, Inc., and president and CEO, Thomaston Savings Bank, addresses the audience at the annual Thomaston Savings Bank Foundation’s Grant Award night at the Thomaston Opera House. 

Congratulations to Ellen Sullivan, winner of Savings Bank of Danbury’s raffle prize from the “Best of Brookfield” Business Expo! Ellen won a Garden Gift Basket featuring a gift certificate to Shakespeare’s Gardens. Pictured presenting Ellen with her basket is Maria Bahia, assistant branch manager, Savings Bank of Danbury’s Brookfield office.

Thomaston Savings Bank was awarded the U.S. Small Business Administration’s 2012 Eagle Award for being a top SBA lender.

Thomaston Savings Bank approved 19 loans, totaling $1.91 million. 

The Savings Bank of Danbury Foundation awarded Renewal House a $1,500 grant to support the program’s residential facility. Pictured are Kathy Romagnano, executive vice president and COO Savings, Bank of Danbury, and Bob Peckham, president of the Renewal House board of directors and investment executive with Infinex Financial Group at the Savings Bank of Danbury.

A donation of $2,500 was presented to each of Thomaston Savings Bank’s branch areas to support area fuel banks, which provide heating assistance to many in need throughout the winter months.

Union Savings Bank Foundation continued its support for local organizations by awarding $3,000 to Gifts of Love, a nonprofit organization that provides more than $300,000 in goods and services to local residents each year. 

Employees at the Savings Bank of Danbury participated in their annual Thanksgiving Fruit Basket program.

44 fruit baskets were delivered to the Salvation Army-Danbury Corps, a 13 percent increase in baskets over last year. Participating in the project were Donna Bogannam, Linda Smith, Rita Farhat, Kathleen Hansen and Kathy Mohr.

Union Savings Bank celebrated the relocation of its Federal Road, Brookfield, branch with a ribboncutting event. 

The Union Savings Bank Foundation distributed $221,592 to 29 non-profit organizations across western Connecticut that provide health care, promote educational achievement and address human service needs.

The Savings Institute Bank & Trust Company Employees’ Caring & Giving Program awarded its third quarter grants to 11 charitable organizations. The program has made donations totaling over $150,000 since its inception in 1998. For 2012, employees pledged to donate more than $17,400 to assist organizations that address issues such as families in need, hunger and homelessness, helping the elderly and assisting individuals with disabilities or special needs. 

The Union Savings Bank Foundation awarded $5,000 to Catholic Charities of Fairfield County. Pictured, Michele Conderino, director of homeless services, Catholic Charities of Fairfield County, and Jessica Castro, assistant vice president, senior branch manager, Union Savings Bank.

18

First Quarter 2013 • Connecticut Banking Magazine

Union Savings Bank employees and their families helped support the fight against juvenile diabetes by participating in the 2012 Walk to Cure Diabetes held at White Memorial. Bank president and CEO Fran Dattalo served as honorary chair.

Christian Community Outreach Ministries received a 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee donated by Union Savings Bank. Pictured, from left: Michele Martin, senior vice president, marketing manager; Marie O’Neill, executive vice president, marketing; Rev. Wanda Payton, Christian Community Outreach Ministries executive director; Rev. Meredith Payton, Christian Community Outreach Ministries president; and Fran Dattalo, Union Savings Bank president and CEO. The U.S. Small Business Administration recognized Union Savings Bank as a 2012 Eagle Award recipient. Pictured, from left: Sen. Richard Blumenthal, presenter of

the awards; Ron Pekrul, vice president, manager, commercial lending, Union Savings Bank; and Moraima Gutierrez, assistant district director, Connecticut District Office.

Webster Bank played a key role in the construction of 74 units of permanent supportive and affordable housing for veterans and at-risk veterans and their families. 

Webster Bank was named Connecticut’s top bank for law firms by the Connecticut Law Tribune.

Webster Bank received the Beautiful Business Award from the city of Waterbury Litter Control and Beautification Commission.

Windsor Federal Savings donated $5,000 to the Jewish Federation Association of Connecticut in order to further the educational goals of awareness and history of the Holocaust and genocide, via the Identity project in Bloomfield schools. u 

The 2013 Class of New Leaders in Banking!

Thomaston Savings Bank proudly congratulates Patrick Quinn, AVP/IT Manager on being named by the Connecticut Bankers Association and Connecticut Banking magazine as one of the “New Leaders in Banking” for 2013.

Congratulations!

860.283.1874 | www.thomastonsavingsbank.com

Thomaston Savings Bank

Committed to Community

19 Thomaston Savings Bank Mortgage AD for Connecticut Banking – February 2013 issue

Member FDIC

Connecticut Banking Magazine • First Quarter 2013

BANKERSintheNEWS David Lentini

Sheryl McQuade

Susan Chamberlain

Gary J. Roman

Charles J. Boulier III

Debbie Clancy

Diane Knetzger

B. Michael Rauh Jr.

Bill Lidestri

Neil M. McDonnell

Robert Greatorex

Lisa M. Berube

Aitza Cabrera

Michael Victor

Jay Clark

Inder Koul

Avi Patel

Kim BondesonCiccarello

Jamie Smith

Valerie J. Arch

Ginger Fennell

Tony Scafariello

Dana Silva

Robert Voets

Shawn L. Gregory

Margaret Powers

Mary Chase

Berkshire Bank CBT Region announced the retirement of David Lentini. He will remain active as head of its Connecticut Advisory Board. Berkshire Bank CBT Region will be led

by Sheryl McQuade, senior vice president of commercial banking and Susan Chamberlain, who was recently named first vice president of retail banking to oversee branch operations.

Gary J. Roman joined Collinsville Savings Society as president and CEO, responsible for conceiving and initiating short and long range plans and objectives to ensure the Bank’s sound condition and continued growth.

Naugatuck Savings Bank announced Charles J. Boulier III was named president and CEO, concluding an 18-month-long transition that saw former CEO Mark C. Yanarella retire from daily operations.

William C. Calderara was named president and CEO of Naugatuck Valley Savings and Loan.

Bank of America Merrill Lynch named Debbie Clancy senior vice president and senior client manager of business banking for

the Southern Connecticut market, where she will support small and mid-sized commercial clients by delivering strategic, integrated financial advice and solutions.

BNC Financial Group, the holding company of The Bank of New Canaan, The Bank of Fairfield and Stamford First Bank, promoted Diane Knetzger to senior vice president.

B. Michael Rauh Jr., president and CEO, Chelsea Groton Bank, was elected to the board of directors of The Providence Mutual Fire Insurance Company. Bill Lidestri joined the bank as senior vice president and director of operations and technology. Fifteen Chelsea Groton Bank employees, who have served the bank for periods of five to 30 years, were honored at a service ceremony. The senior management team, including President and CEO Michael Rauh, was there to congratulate the award recipients, eight of whom have been with the bank for 15 years or more.

Neil M. McDonnell joined Darien Rowayton Bank as executive vice president and CFO. Dime Bank announced the appointment of 20

a new corporate officer and mortgage loan underwriter. Robert Greatorex is responsible for underwriting residential loans in the newly developed centralized underwriting department.

Essex Savings Bank announced the addition of Lisa M. Berube as assistant vice president and branch manager of the Chester office.

COCC’s shareholders elected Reyno A. Giallongo Jr., chairman and CEO of First County Bank, to serve on its board of directors for a three-year term.

First County Bank promoted Aitza Cabrera to assistant branch manager of the New Canaan branch. Michael Victor, First County Bank’s New Canaan branch manager and assistant vice president, was promoted to regional manager, responsible for seven of the bank’s branches in lower Fairfield County.

First Niagara Bank’s senior vice president of retail planning Jay Clark served as an industry expert panelist, discussing “Integrated Sales and Marketing to Drive Profitability” at the 2012 BAI Retail Delivery. Inder Koul was

First Quarter 2013 • Connecticut Banking Magazine

Barbara Bishop

Steven Essex

Amanda Goewey

Cynthia Harbach

Diane E.R. Johnstone

Spring Bagnall

Conrad Jones

Martin Morgado

George Stambouloglou

Reid W. Fraser

David Weston

Ralph Johnston

Mike Urgo

Gary W. Burdick

Robert Francolini

Cheryl Guillot

Thomas J. Mango

Matthew Morrell

Raymond A. Cirisoli

Sergio G. DaSilveira

Kristen E. Lessard

Richard J. Mishley

Jeffry K. Pierce

Cindy Cipriano

Mellissa Erdtmann

Marci Neri

Thomas G. Parisot

named senior vice president and CIO. Avi Patel was promoted to chief marketing officer.

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Liberty Bank promoted Kim BondesonCiccarello to vice president of small business solutions. Jamie Smith was appointed assistant vice president.

Naugatuck Savings Bank hired Valerie J. Arch as a cash management specialist.

Ginger Fennell was promoted to vice president of risk management and investments. Tony Scafariello is the branch manager of the new Wallingford branch.

Dana Silva joined the bank as vice president and controller, overseeing the accounting department. The bank awarded its quarterly customer service commendation to Robert Voets, assistant vice president and security director. The SARF Award (Safety & Security, Accuracy, Responsiveness and Friendly, Personalized Service) is given every quarter to the employee who best represents the bank’s engrained culture of giving customers the service and dedication they deserve, every day. continued on page 22

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Connecticut Banking Magazine • Fourth Quarter 2012

BANKERSintheNEWS

continued from page 21

Judith Zeigler

Rhonda M. Leone

Michael B. Paparella

Jim Smith

Jerry Plush

Jordan Arovas

Jennifer Buchholz

Joe Cox II

Martha Finkel

Daniel FitzPatrick

Peter Mosbacher

Rick O’Brien

Ray Halsted

Janice Kelley

Mary-Lynn Kinney

Michael B. Paparella

Shawn L. Gregory joined Newtown Savings Bank as vice president and senior commercial lender. Margaret Powers was promoted to chief lending officer. Added to her current responsibilities managing the consumer lending division, she will have executive oversight for the commercial lending and credit functions.

Rockville Bank announced Mary Chase will manage the new full-service banking center, scheduled to open in late January in West Hartford Center. The banking center will be located in the same building as the U.S. Post Office, which will continue to operate there.

Salisbury Bank announced the appointment of Barbara Bishop as a mortgage advisor in the residential lending department of the bank, responsible for the origination of residential mortgage loans. Steven Essex, vice president and trust officer at Salisbury Bank, was appointed to the board of directors of PLAN (Planned Lifetime Assistance Network), a non-profit organization which provides pooled trust and individual trust administration services for families with special needs. Amanda Goewey was appointed a mortgage advisor in the residential lending department. Cynthia Harbach, commercial credit analyst, was named employee of the quarter for the third quarter of 2012. Senior Vice President and Trust Officer Diane E.R. Johnstone received the Certified Trust and Financial Advisor (CTFA) designation from the Institute of Certified Bankers, a subsidiary of the

Al Falco

American Bankers Association. Salisbury Bank & Trust Mortgage Advisor Spring Bagnall was designated a Five-Star Mortgage Professional by Connecticut Magazine.

commercial banking team as a commercial relationship manager. Matthew Morrell joined the bank as vice president, mortgage sales manager.

Savings Bank of Danbury announced Conrad Jones joined the bank as vice president of commercial banking. Martin Morgado has been appointed executive vice president. He is a member of the bank’s executive management team and serves on the bank’s ALCO Committee. George Stambouloglou joined the bank as vice president and business development officer.

He is a graduate of the Connecticut School of Finance and Management and will be responsible for all phases of new business development.

TD Bank named Assistant Vice President Raymond A. Cirisoli the store manager of the Saugatuck store. Assistant Vice President Sergio G. DaSilveira was named the store manager of the downtown Stamford store.

Assistant Vice President Kristen E. Lessard was named store manager of the Brittany West store in New Britain. Assistant Vice President Richard J. Mishley was named the store manager in Redding. Jeffry K. Pierce was named vice president and business development officer in Small Business Administration Lending.

Reid W. Fraser joined Savings Institute Bank & Trust as vice president and commercial lender. David Weston and Ralph Johnston, wealth management division, SI Financial Advisors, were cited as five-star professionals. Mike Urgo has moved from his position as branch manager at Savings Institute Bank & Trust’s Stonington office to mortgage loan consultant.

Thomaston Savings Bank announced Cindy Cipriano, branch manager of the Waterbury branch office, was promoted to assistant secretary. Small Business Commercial Lender Melissa Erdtmann was promoted to assistant vice president. Human Resources Generalist Marci Neri was promoted to assistant secretary. Attorney Thomas G. Parisot was elected to the board of directors.

Parisot is a partner at the law firm of Secor, Cassidy & McPartland, P.C. in Waterbury and Southbury. Judith Zeigler, branch manager of the Bethlehem branch office, was promoted to assistant secretary.

Simsbury Bank announced Gary W. Burdick joined its team as senior vice president and chief commercial banking officer. Robert Francolini rejoined the bank as vice president and managing director of residential construction lending. Cheryl Guillot joined the bank as a mortgage loan officer. Thomas J. Mango joined the 22

Union Savings Bank hired Rhonda M. Leone as vice president and construction lending manager.

Windsor Federal Savings announced Michael B. Paparella joined as vice president of commercial loan and business development.

Webster Bank’s Jim Smith, chairman and CEO, received the distinguished Lifetime Achievement Award from the Hartford Business Journal. This honor recognizes business leaders who are making a positive impact on future generations through their community outreach activities; teaching others by example; and providing the leadership and guidance that will create Hartford’s future business leaders. Jerry Plush, president and COO, was elected a board and executive committee member of the Connecticut Bankers Association.

This is in addition to being chairman of the board of directors of Junior Achievement of Southwest New England and a member of the board of trustees for CPBN. Jordan Arovas is now senior vice president and manager of specialty banking. Jennifer Buchholz was appointed executive vice president and chief

human resources officer. Elzbieta Cieslik, CPA, was appointed senior vice president and general auditor. Joe Cox II, senior vice president, senior investment manager at Fleming, Perry, and Cox Financial Advisors, a Webster Financial Company, has been named a Five-Star Wealth Manager in the Connecticut area and was featured in the December issue of Connecticut Magazine. Al Falco was appointed senior vice president and senior private banker. Martha Finkel is now senior vice president and senior relationship manager, commercial banking; Danielle Altieri is now vice president and branch manager; Greg Rossetti is now senior vice president and tax director; and Desiree Wolfe is now senior vice president, consumer product management. Daniel FitzPatrick was appointed executive vice president, private banking. Jackie Jamsheed was appointed senior vice president and director of operating risk management. Annette Larabee, Michael Healy and Jeffrey Taylor are all new vice presidents and relationship managers.

Peter Mosbacher, senior vice president of

23

community development, served as a panelist regarding community development lending, addressing the creativity, collaboration and the ability to balance multiple organizational priorities in these challenging economic times. Rick O’Brien, senior vice president and regional president for Western Connecticut, received the 2012 Humanitarian Service Award from the Boys and Girls Club and Family Center of Bristol, recognizing his dedication, sacrifice and accomplishments in humanitarian service to the community that includes helping others and making the community a better place to live.

Windsor Federal Savings announced Ray Halsted was promoted to senior vice president and senior lending officer. Janice Kelley, director of human resources, was promoted to senior vice president. MaryLynn Kinney was promoted to executive vice president. She continues as CFO and treasurer. Michael B. Paparella joined as vice president of commercial loan and business development. u

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NEW LEADERS HONOREES

MEET THE FUTURE OF CONNECTICUT BANKING In conjunction with BankWorld, the largest banking conference and expo in the Northeast, held in January, the Connecticut Bankers Association and The Warren Group honored the following 10 up-and-coming bankers in Connecticut. Nominated by their peers and chosen by an independent review committee, these are the best and brightest. Here are their stories.

vital need in our local economy and I find it very rewarding to work for an organization that supports my local community.

What do you consider your biggest success?

Without question, my biggest success is the family I’ve made with my husband. Specific to banking, my biggest success would be when I was awarded with an internal customer service award for being an “auditor with a heart.”

LAURA M. BERTEKAP Age: 41 Title: Compliance Officer and AVP Bank: Liberty Bank Bank location: Middletown Town of residence: Wallingford How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

My great-aunt was a personal banker at Union Trust in Wallingford for 40 years and when I was a young girl, she brought me in to visit. As soon as she showed me the back of the ATM (a Tabby machine in those days), I was hooked. There were so many fascinating moving parts: wires, canisters, money and computers, all behind the tidy screen – I knew I wanted to be “backstage” when I grew up. After 22 years in the industry, it’s just as captivating.

What do you consider your biggest success?

My biggest success in life has been raising my son as a single parent.

He is now a college graduate, living and working in Boston. I am very proud of the adult he has grown up to be.

How do you see technology changing the banking industry over the next 10 years?

I think technology will continue to be the main focus in the delivery of services to our customers at their convenience. The pace at which innovation is demanded by consumers and businesses is likely to accelerate beyond our current comprehension. Large, long-term bank technology providers will be competing with smaller, more innovative providers who are unencumbered by organizational bureaucracies that greatly impact time to market.

MARGARET BLUNDON Age: 50 Title: AVP and Business Intelligence Manager Bank: Chelsea Groton Bank Bank location: Groton Town of residence: Niantic How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

Many years ago when I was in the market for a new job, one that I could build a career from, my best friend’s mom suggested that I apply at the community bank where she was employed.

Within a few months of working for the bank I knew this was an area that would continue to provide a diverse and challenging environment for me for years to come. Community banks serve a

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

I adore movies and my dream job would be running a movie theater.

What’s your favorite vacation spot?

I love any vacation I can take with my family; but my favorite vacation spot will always be Walt Disney World.

How do you see technology changing the banking industry over the next 10 years?

Community banks need to embrace technology changes and look for ways to use technology to help them streamline efficiencies.

I see more banks looking to integrate various software systems seamlessly to create efficiency and reduce errors. The use of predictive analytics and CRM software will become necessary as banks look to deepen their relationship with their customer.

On the customer facing side, banks need to continue to find balance between the customer demands for banking whenever and wherever while mitigating risk.

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

I am quite passionate about gardening, especially wildlife and environmentally friendly gardening and have always wanted to be a professional landscaper. I enjoy working in my own yard and helping my friends and neighbors with their landscaping.

What’s your favorite vacation spot?

Any place that has sun, sand, salt water and warm weather.

continued on page 26 24

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DAWN E. DECRISTOFARO

JOHN M. DELGADILLO

DONNA L. FLYNN

Age: 35 Title: Vice President and Commercial Loan Officer Bank: Chelsea Groton Bank Bank location: Groton Town of residence: Ledyard

Age: 42 Title: First Vice President, Small Business Leader Bank: First Niagara Bank location: Manchester Town of residence: Vernon

Age: 48 Title: First Vice President Bank: Liberty Bank Bank location: Middletown Town of residence: Manchester

How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

In early 1998, I began working for a local mortgage company and then I had heard that Chelsea Groton Bank was hiring. I had an interview with one of the branch managers for a customer service representative and then another interview with the commercial lending department for a commercial loan representative. After both interviews, the position in commercial lending seemed more diversified and was more appealing to me. I love being a community banker, as I can assist the local businesses with their financing needs.

How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

I started in banking 17 years ago as an assistant manager of a training program. I came to love the banking industry. We not only provide solid solutions to our customers, but I have the ability to impact employee development through coaching, and am part of the greater success of the organization.

How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

Approximately five and a half years ago, I was looking for a change. I’ve always worked for large financial institutions. I received a call from a head hunter with an opportunity to develop cash management for Liberty Bank. It was the best decision I’ve made.

What do you consider your biggest success?

My biggest success would be the satisfaction of helping a customer expand their business from leasing to owning their own property. This customer was referred to me by one of my banking partners and they were looking to expand their wellness business. They had been working with another institution for an extended period of time but were not provided with a response in a timely manner.

How do you see technology changing the banking industry over the next 10 years?

Technology has already changed so much since I started in banking in 1998. Now you can make transfers via the apps on your cell phones, pay bills online, etc. With technology changing every day, I think that it will continue to evolve to make banking easier and allow for remote access.

What do you consider your biggest success?

Piloting and rolling out the small business program with First Niagara in New England. Being able to lead a region to new heights – our success is reflected in our growth and goal achievement of 325 percent in 2012 versus 2011.

How do you see technology changing the banking industry over the next 10 years?

I see it positively affecting both consumers and small business. We are reaching out to customers in a more streamlined fashion – providing greater accessibility for our customer base with added convenience and solutions for their needs.

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

Sales consulting and training – helping people attain their full potential.

What’s your favorite vacation spot?

Cruising through the Caribbean!

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

I would probably be utilizing my organizational skills at a small business.

What’s your favorite vacation spot?

I would have to say that my favorite vacation spot would be Honduras, for the beautiful beaches and picturesque scenery.

26

What do you consider your biggest success?

Developing cash management sales and operations from the ground up. In addition, the appointment of my newest role of a implementing small business banking division for the bank.

How do you see technology changing the banking industry over the next 10 years?

Technology will be the main focus for all banks.

Our customers want information immediately and they want to choose how and when they get it. I also believe that at some point digital wallets will take over the payment industry.

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

I would be a forensic investigator.

What’s your favorite vacation spot?

This isn’t a typical answer; however, my favorite vacation spot is my home!

continued on page 28

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27

TO LEARN MORE, SCAN CODE WITH YOUR SMARTPHONE

role as chief risk officer and chief internal auditor at the Connecticut Mutual Holding Company. I have stayed in community banking because I believe in the role community banks play in local economies in terms of small business lending, contributions, and employee volunteerism. I am so fortunate to work for an organization that values its employees and the communities that we serve.

MAURA MALO Age: 41 Title: Chief Risk Officer and Chief Internal Auditor Bank: Connecticut Mutual Holding Company Bank location: Litchfield, Winsted and Collinsville Town of residence: Litchfield How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

I started in banking right out of college as a safety and soundness examiner for the FDIC. After 10 years there, I knew I wanted to take my training and background to a community bank and was fortunate to obtain a position as internal auditor at Litchfield Bancorp. This position blossomed into a

What do you consider your biggest success?

My biggest success is being part of a senior management team responsible for guiding the organization while never losing sight of what matters to me the most – my husband and two beautiful daughters.

How do you see technology changing the banking industry over the next 10 years?

Technology is changing at a very rapid pace; however, as a community bank we cannot be always be an early adapter. We need to keep abreast of the changes but also understand the needs of our customer base.

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

I have always wanted to own and manage a bed and breakfast.

What’s your favorite vacation spot?

Our favorite vacation spot is York Beach, Maine. We have ventured to Disney World and other spots but at the end of the day the family votes to return to Maine.

28

JOCELYN MITCHELL Age: 46 Title: Senior Market Manager/AVP Bank: Simsbury Bank Bank location: Granby Town of residence: Canton How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

During my 24-plus years in banking, I have had the opportunity to work for many institutions, from large regional banks to small community banks. Most of my career, however, has been in community banking. I am drawn to the unique way a community bank is able to engage with its

customers, service their needs, and become a vital part of the community.

What do you consider your biggest success?

I am most proud of being able to accomplish two things during my career: The first is helping my customers get financially fit and achieve financial security; the second is being recognized as a fair, ethical and strong servant leader.

What do you consider your biggest success?

In 2008, we virtualized our entire network core over the span of a weekend. When we opened Monday morning, there were no calls from employees, as everyone was able to access their system and programs without issue. Although a major undertaking, the initiative was transparent to our employees, enabling them to provide service to our customers without interruption.

How do you see technology changing the banking industry over the next 10 years?

Technological advances are made every day that make banking faster, less expensive and more convenient. These advances will open our borders and allow community banks to service their customers both near and far. This will offer customers the best of both worlds: the capability to do their banking remotely while helping to support their community.

How do you see technology changing the banking industry over the next 10 years?

We are operating in a more complex and competitive environment than ever before. Technology will continue to have a tremendous influence on the delivery of financial services – how we interact with our customers, how we deal with the regulatory environment and manage our workflow and processes.

It is technology’s role to help the bank respond to all the challenges and achieve high performance.

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

I would most likely be working in the financial services industry in some advisory capacity. I enjoy helping people keep their financial fitness and achieve financial security.

What’s your favorite vacation spot?

Any place with a lake and mountains! I particularly love northern New England.

PATRICK D. QUINN Age: 35 Title: Assistant Vice President and IT Manager Bank: Thomaston Savings Bank Bank location: Thomaston Town of residence: Thomaston How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

I have been at the bank for 10 years, and have never looked back. I am proud to work for a bank that consistently demonstrates its commitment to the communities in which it does business, its customers and employees.

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

It is difficult to imagine not working as a community banker. I have been a lifelong resident of Thomaston, and being a part of this community is very important to me. Working at Thomaston Savings Bank has enabled me to live, work and contribute to my community in a meaningful way.

What’s your favorite vacation spot?

I enjoy traveling, but if I were to pick one spot as a favorite, I would have to say it would be Maine.

Enjoying nature and its quiet is often times a great diversion from everyday life.

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What do you consider your biggest success?

I believe my biggest success is finding a career that I love. I often find myself telling my friends and family that I feel so lucky to be able to do something I enjoy every day.

I’m constantly presented with new tasks that require me to be both creative and calculated, which makes for a day that flies by.

in this genre because I can make a difference. As a lender at First Niagara I am a trusted advisor to my customers and working with them to achieve their goals.

What do you consider your biggest success?

My family and my self contentment are my biggest successes. From a business perspective, I take a great deal of pride in the loyalty of my customers and my referral sources.

ALLISON STANDISH PLIMPTON Age: 48 Title: Vice President Bank: First Niagara Financial Group Bank location: Manchester Town of residence: Glastonbury How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

I started in community banking as part of a transition into the banking world from investment banking (bond trading). I felt that there were more local job opportunities in the banking industry than in the investment world where the preponderance of firms were in New York City. However, over the years I have realized that I stayed

How do you see technology changing the banking industry over the next 10 years?

With the advancement of technology, all banks will increase efficiencies and thus our ability to service our customer’s needs in a more expeditious manner.

MIKE STORIALE Age: 25 Title: E-Marketing Manager Bank: Guilford Savings Bank Bank location: Guilford Town of residence: Cromwell

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

I would be a retired soccer player. In all seriousness, if I left the banking industry now I would look to find a position in the nonprofit world, where my marketing and finance background would hopefully prove to be valuable.

How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

I came to community banking somewhat by accident. Following college, I worked in various marketing positions, and ended up being referred to Guilford Savings Bank by a friend. I never thought I’d end up in banking, but found it to be a great industry within which to work.

What’s your favorite vacation spot?

Breckenridge, Colorado – or anywhere out of cellular range.

How do you see technology changing the banking industry over the next 10 years?

Technology is going to change banking in a huge way over the next 10 years. Having a brick-andmortar location or even a physical ATM on every street corner is starting to matter less and less to a large portion of consumers.

With new technologies available to everyone in the industry, every bank can compete on the same level. I think we’re going to see an interesting melding of two worlds in the coming years: the world of new technology that offers the ability to perform nearly every banking transaction from a smartphone, and the world of personalized customer service that everyone was accustomed to long before technology was a driving force.

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

Marketing is truly my passion, so if I were not in community banking I would like to think I’d be in marketing elsewhere. As a child, I always wished I could try a sampling of a hundred different professions just to see what they were like. I believe marketing is the closest thing to that dream, as every industry needs marketing professionals.

What’s your favorite vacation spot?

Having lived in Rome for a short time, Italy still holds a big piece of my heart. I love everything about it, but most of all I love the history that is quite literally on every corner. I remember walking into a building there and thinking “This building has seen so many things. It’s older than my country.” It’s a great place to be.

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