BauerFinanical Inc. of Coral Gables, Fla., announced that Citizens Bank of Effingham has earned its highest 5-Star Superior rating for financial strength and stability.

In making the announcement, BauerFinancial President Karen L. Dorway said, “It is heartening to know that there are still well run community banks, like Citizens Bank, that have risen above the calamity that has befallen so many others.”

Bauer's 5-Star Superior rating is based on the overall financial picture of the bank and indicates that Citizens Bank is one of the strongest banks in the nation. In fact, this represents the ninth consecutive quarter that Citizens Bank has earned this highest honor.

“It gives me great pleasure to announce that there are still banks, like Citizens Bank, that continue to build a sense of security in this insecure world,” continued Dorway. “Residents in and around Effingham County have the privilege of banking with a true community bank that has stuck to true, common-sense banking values. They can sleep soundly in the knowledge that they are banking with one of the strongest banks in the country.”

“We’re honored to be recognized for our strength, stability and safety, especially during difficult economic times for our nation's economy,” said Michael T. Lee, president and CEO of Citizens Bank.

“This superior rating is a tribute to the conservative financial philosophy of our bank's management and board of directors. Citizens Bank maintains a very strong capital position plus we adhere to prudent banking policies which assure our customers of a strong margin of security.”

About Citizens Bank:
Founded in 1998, Citizens Bank is a locally-owned community bank with headquarters in Springfield. As of June 30, 2008, the bank reported total assets of $225 million, total deposits of $198 million and net loans of $187 million. Citizens Bank has offices in Rincon, Guyton and Port Wentworth in addition to its Springfield location. For more information, call 754-0754 or log onto www.citizensbankofeffingham.com.
 
About BauerFinancial:
Based in Coral Gables, Fla., and recognized as the nation’s leading independent bank rating and research firm, BauerFinancial has been reporting on and analyzing the performance of U.S. banks and credit unions since 1983. No institution pays for its rating, nor can they elude it. Consumers may obtain star-ratings by visiting www.bauerfinancial.com.