Branch manager Martice Smith and Jed Metzger, Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce CEO/President, with employees of the First National Bank, prepare to cut the ribbon, officially opening the newest branch.
Dean Brown | The Lima News
LIMA — The First National Bank of Pandora held a ribbon cutting for its new office at 2580 Eastown Road. The bank was originally chartered in 1919 in Pandora. The newest building was opened in January, but the ribbon cutting gave the bank and the community a chance to celebrate.
Martrice Smith, branch manager, said, “I am grateful to be a part of something that believes in what we say. We just don’t talk, we do it. Just being able to be an impact in the community is huge for me.”
At its inception, the bank focused on three things. It needed to be owned by members of the community who are living and working in the community. There needed to be strong and consistent economic resources in the area.The final pillar of the bank was to depend on community loyalty, high-grade citizenship, morals and rewards.
Community banks play an important role in supporting local economies and communities by providing access to financial services and supporting local businesses and individuals. The bank’s commitment to the community was evident. The bank presented the Ohio SPCA with a check for $500.
Jason Asaro, from the Ohio SPCA, said, “This shelter and this organization has meant so much to me the three years I’ve been a part of it. We truly could not do it without the help coming from the community. Thank you truly. Truly thank you for helping us help the animals.”
Reach Dean Brown at 567-242-0409
