One Year Later, California General Bank, N.A. is Still the Newest Bank in Southern California

PASADENA, Calif., March 9 /PRNewswire/ -- California General Bank, N.A., (www.calgenbank.com) a community business bank celebrates its one-year anniversary on March 9, and is the only bank to open in Southern California in 2009 and thus far in 2010. During the same 14-month period only two banks have opened in the entire state.  "While many other banks are working through various problems, California General is well capitalized, has no bad loans and is a willing lender," said William A. Hawkins, president and C.E.O.

Located in Pasadena, California General Bank focuses on small business and mid-sized businesses, including commercial real estate, professional groups such as dental and medical practices and law firms in the San Gabriel Valley. The bank offers business loans, lines of credit and other basic financial support with a heavy emphasis on personal service not available in larger banks.

"During our first year the bank has grown to approximately $60 million in assets from $20 million. We're busy making all types of loans to good businesses," Hawkins said.  "Our early success comes from an experienced staff from the community we serve. We are involved and we give back to our community," he said.  "Five of our board members have served as chairmen or presidents of community banks; five are well-known business and professional people from the community and two are former mayors.  We are all anxious to do our part in helping our community and businesses grow and prosper; that's what good banks do!" he said.

SOURCE California General Bank, N.A.