Alice Frazier, BCT President & CEO
My tradition of writing a New Year’s letter to our clients is similar to the gift above. It’s an opportunity for us to reflect upon the many achievements of 2023. However, and more importantly, it is an opportunity for me to express my gratitude for your continued trust and loyalty to this locally owned community bank.1
Early in 2023 it became apparent that not all banks are alike in ensuring they invest the deposits entrusted to them by their clients into safe and sound loans to consumers and businesses that results in the growth of local economies. From our founding in 1871 to now, we remain committed to being a stabilizing force within the communities we serve. Our commitment to building trust and long-term relationships with our clients, one at a time, has resulted in continued growth. This year we surpassed $800 million in assets, achieving another milestone.
The financial health and strength of our bank is as important to us as it is you. In the banking industry we have our own Good Housekeeping type of seal of approval that is issued by Bauer Financial. Bauer Financial rates banks in five categories and then awards a star rating. BCT continues to be a 5 Star Bank, acknowledging our quality financial strength.
This year also brought BCT several awards and recognitions for which I am both amazed and proud. Without hesitation I can say none of these superlatives would be possible without your support plus the tireless efforts of our employees who provide exceptional, personalized services for you. Below are a few of those recognitions.
2023 Recognition:
- TOP 200 COMMUNITY BANK in USA (American Banker)
- BEST BANK (Journal-News Reader Poll)
- BEST FINANCIAL PLANNING SERVICE (Journal-News Readers Poll)
- BEST LOAN SERVICE (Journal-News Readers Poll)
- BEST MORTGAGE COMPANY (Journal-News Readers Poll)
- BEST BANKS TO WORK FOR (American Banker)
While these awards are appreciated, I am most gratified by our ability to support the local community through our BCTCares Foundation. Food insecurity is a growing problem in our local communities that concerns us hence our commitment to the annual Pack the ‘Pack campaign which raised, with your help, $65,000 for our four local partners who provide food backpacks to local children and their families. Overall for 2023, BCTCares Foundation provided $100,000 to twelve nonprofit organizations focused on assisting with ending food insecurity. By supporting this direct need in our communities, we are fulfilling our role of neighbors helping neighbors and sincerely appreciate the good work of these local nonprofits.
For over 152 years, BCT has served our community with a resolve of providing financial services that help our neighbors in practical, meaningful ways. As we look to the next 152 years, I am committed to ensuring BCT builds upon our successes with new and innovative services that will simplify your financial life and that of your family and business. If you have any interesting and helpful ideas, let me know. I’m always looking!
To you and yours, I wish you a Happy New Year and a 2024 filled with peace and success.
Sincerely,
-Alice-
1 Bank of Charles Town (BCT) is a subsidiary of Potomac Bancshares, Inc., traded on the OTC Pink Sheet under the symbol of PTBS. Potomac Bancshares, Inc. is also headquartered in Charles Town, WV.