What are the two greatest opportunities Bank
of Belleville envisions that will increase the
bank customer base and community profile
in 2009?
One notable high point occurred in 2008 when the readers of the Belleville
News Democrat voted Bank of Belleville as the “Best Financial Institution.” A
consistent high level of service by experienced professionals created buzz in the
community resulting in this award.
We continued our annual tradition of sponsoring the popular horse-drawn
trolley for Belleville’s downtown holiday shoppers. Our staff once again worked
after hours several November evenings to create “Santa’s Bank” for the annual
Gingerbread Contest. It was one of the many edible creations that are displayed
in businesses during the holiday season in downtown Belleville. The tradition
recalls Belleville’s heritage with many buildings in the mid-1800s featuring
Victorian “gingerbread” architecture. In December, we were the lead sponsor for
the first annual “Gingerbread Cookie Walk.” Approximately 200 residents and 24
merchants participated along the route, including Bank of Belleville, supplying
each walker with a unique cookie creation. By all reports, it was a huge success.
Further evidence of our asset and manpower growth was the need to expand
our facility. We added offices, work stations and much needed storage. As we
look forward to 2009, we look to continue to cultivate our growing referral base
and build our core customer base. We plan to be the best small community
bank on “Main Street” in mid-America.
— Kevin M. Pesko, President