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| Alpine Bank Becomes First Business to Go ‘Carbon Neutral’ Through Canary Tag Program (November 13, 2008) |
The Aspen branch of Alpine Bank has chosen to purchase Canary Tags to offset its carbon emissions – a first in the Aspen community. The branch purchased 128.2 tags, offsetting 128.2 tons of CO2, and is currently the only business to go “carbon neutral” through the city of Aspen’s Canary Tag program.
Canary Tags are the first municipal carbon offset program in the United States. Each tag costs $20 and represents an offset of one ton of CO2 through renewable energy and carbon mitigation programs.
“Alpine Bank has been working hard to reduce the company’s overall environmental footprint, and we are happy they were able to use our local program to make a difference,” said Kim Peterson, director of the Canary Initiative.
The Alpine Bank Aspen Branch calculated its 2007 “carbon footprint” in order to determine how many tags to purchase. Alpine Bank as a company has committed to environmental leadership. The bank has goals to reduce energy and paper use by 20 percent by 2012, as well as water consumption by 10 percent and courier fleet fuel consumption by 25 percent.
“We believe Alpine Bank’s substantial commitment and our ongoing passion for resource efficient banks can set an example for action and stewardship within our communities,” said Pete Yang, vice president of Alpine Bank Aspen. “Although all Alpine Banks are in the process of contracting for 100 percent green electricity by the end of the year, only the Aspen location has offset its natural gas emissions as well.”
Alpine Bank was also recently awarded “Gold Leader” by the State of Colorado for its environmental management systems. They are the first financial institution in the state to attain this recognition.
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| Alpine Banks Receive Prestigious State Environmental Leadership Award (October 27, 2008) |
On Tuesday, October 21st, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, in cooperation with the Pollution Prevention Advisory Board and the Colorado Environmental Partnership, designated Alpine Bank a “Gold Leader” for its environmental leadership. Alpine Bank is the first financial institution in Colorado to be recognized with this award by the State for its environmental commitment and continuous improvement.
About the Environmental Leadership ProgramThe Environmental Leadership Program (ELP) is a statewide environmental recognition and reward program administered by the Department of Public Health and Environment’s Sustainability Program. The ELP program offers benefits and incentives to members that voluntarily go beyond compliance with state and federal regulations and are committed to continual environmental improvement.
The awards consist of three tiers, Bronze, Silver and Gold. This year’s ELP awards program welcomed 15 new Gold Leader members, who join 18 past companies and organizations designated as Gold Leaders.
About Alpine Bank’s Environmental EffortsThree years ago Alpine Bank formalized an employee grassroots effort called the Green Team. The Green Team’s first projects were aimed at recycling and eliminating paper waste. These efforts quickly evolved into a comprehensive Environmental Management System. Since 2006 Alpine Bank earned and maintains “ISO 14001” certification – the universally recognized standard for environmental management.
In line with the State of Colorado, Alpine Banks have adopted the following goals to “Green the Banks” by 2012:
20% reduction in energy use
20% reduction in paper use
10% reduction in water consumption
25% reduction in courier fleet fuel consumption (targets are measured against baseline year 2006)
For more information about Alpine Bank’s environmental efforts, visit online at www.alpinebank.com and click on Green Team. |
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| Alpine Banks of Colorado Ranked National Top Performer (July 7, 2008) |
The American Banker’s Association (ABA) ranked Alpine Banks of Colorado eighth nationally as a ‘Top Performer’ in the June 2008, ABA Banking Journal magazine. The Banks were rated in the “non-S banks and thrifts greater than $100 million in assets” category. Alpine Bank is the only Colorado bank ranked in the top 25 for 2008 in this category, and has moved up substantially from 38th in 2007.
Recently, the ICBA (Independent Community Bankers of America) also listed Alpine Bank as one of their ‘Top 20’ performers.
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| ALPINE BANK Named a Top Performer - Washington, D.C. (June 25, 2008) |
Washington, D.C. (June 25, 2008)— ICBA Independent Banker, the award-winning national magazine of the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA), highlighted Alpine Bank as a “Top 20” industry earnings performer.
Alpine Bank was recognized for posting one of the 20 best year-end earnings performances in 2007 for ICBA member banks with more than $500 million in assets.
"Community banks are integral to the economic and civic fabric of thousands of towns and cities across America,” said Cynthia L. Blankenship, ICBA chairman and vice chairman of Bank of the West, Irving, Texas. “In addition to offering quality financial products and services, community banks like Alpine Bank spend countless hours and resources helping their communities thrive. ICBA congratulates Alpine Bank for serving its community so efficiently and effectively.”
Alpine Bank was identified in ICBA Independent Banker’s annual year-end ranking of ICBA members based on the standard industry performance measures of return on average assets and return on average equity. The magazine compiles its annual member rankings in its June issue from the latest available year-end FDIC call report data.
Separate performance rankings are listed for Subchapter S corporation community banks and Subchapter C corporation community banks among five asset categories. For details, visit the online news and media center at www.icba.org and click on Top 20 Best Performers.
ICBA Independent Banker is the flagship magazine published by ICBA. The monthly magazine is the only nationally distributed publication that exclusively covers the community bank marketplace.
About ICBA
The Independent Community Bankers of America, the nation’s voice for community banks, represents nearly 5,000 community banks of all sizes and charter types throughout the United States and is dedicated exclusively to representing the interests of the community banking industry and the communities and customers we serve. For more information, visit
www.icba.org.
About Alpine Bank
Established in 1973, Alpine Bank specializes in serving our Western Colorado markets. We are a locally owned and operated $2.5 billion dollar asset organization. With 37 bank locations, we are able to make local decisions to create solutions for our customers. We take pride in our substantial commitment to our communities and the environment. Visit us online at www.alpinebank.com.
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| Alpine Bank Opens Three Springs Banking Office (March 25, 2008) |
Alpine Bank today announced the opening of its second location, Alpine Bank at Three Springs, located at 175 Mercado Street. Niall Byers has been appointed Branch Manager of the new Three Springs Alpine Bank. Niall, a graduate of Fort Lewis College, joined Alpine Bank in 2004. He is a board member for Durango Nature Studies, and is an active member of Kiwanis. “Alpine Bank takes pride in developing strong community partnerships, Three Springs is quickly becoming a community that provides a place to live, work, shop and play, and Alpine Bank is excited to be a part of it,” said Byers.
Alpine Bank has been giving back to the communities it serves for 35 years, in honor of that tradition, for every new account that is opened during the month of April Alpine Bank will donate $50.00 to the Mercy Health Foundation’s Breast Care Center campaign.
To celebrate the opening of the Three Springs location, there will be a community Grand Opening celebration on Friday, April 18, 2008, from 4:30 – 6:30 PM. The staff at Alpine Bank Three Springs hopes that you will celebrate with them on the 18th as there will be food, drinks and drawings for some great prizes.
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| Latin-American Communities to Benefit From Alpine Bank’s Loyalty Check Card Program (November 26, 2007) |
Alpine Bank is pleased to announce the newest addition to its Loyalty Visa Check Card collection – the Americas Card. Alpine Bank and several local nonprofits are partnering together with the new card to help the Latin-American communities in Western Colorado improve their quality of life and learn the importance of helping others.
Each time the card is used, Alpine Bank donates 10 cents on behalf of their customer’s loyalty to local organizations that embrace and support our growing Latin-American communities. Some of the organizations that have signed up to participate in the program include:
- Catholic Charities of Colorado
- The Buddy Program
- Aspen Film Fest
- Aspen Valley Ski Club
- Club Rotario Roaring Fork
- Alpine Legal Services
- Roaring Fork Family Resource Centers
Nonprofits supporting Latin-Americans on the Western Slope that wish to benefit from Alpine Bank’s Americas Loyalty Check Card may contact Abraham Baeza to learn more about the program and how to participate.
Alpine Bank is a $2.2 billion asset organization chartered in 1973 with headquarters in Glenwood Springs, Colo. With 36 western and southwestern Colorado banking offices, Alpine Bank serves over 100,000 customers providing retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage, and electronic banking services.
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| Alpine Bank Announces Officer Promotions (November 26, 2007) |
Alpine Banks in Mesa County would like to congratulate the following persons on their recent promotions:
Jo Applegate
Executive Vice President, Communications Center
Jo started with Alpine Bank 31-years ago, just after the third Alpine Bank location opened in Basalt. She learned virtually every aspect of banking in her 14-years there. She then transferred to Aspen, on to Rifle to open their first bank, then to Glenwood Springs, and now, she oversees Alpine Bank’s communications center at the Downtown location.
Jo was born and raised in north central Missouri and attended college at Northwest Missouri State in Maryville, MO. She also attended the New Mexico School of Banking and Commercial Lending School in Norman, OK. She and her husband, Butch, recently married off their daughter. At home, she enjoys seeing their five llamas, seven cats, and dog through their senior years.
Aaron Miller
Executive Vice President, Downtown Grand Junction
Aaron originally hails from Dubois, WY. He graduated from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, AZ in 1999 and has since received additional credentials from the Graduate School of Banking at University of Colorado in Boulder. Aaron started with Alpine Bank, succeeding through the management training program. He specializes in commercial lending and business development at the Downtown Grand Junction location.
Aaron plays an active role in the community where he is past president and current board member of Habitat for Humanity of Mesa County, and also serves on the board of Community Hospital Foundation and the Mesa State Maverick Club. He is an avid sportsman who enjoys hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, and golfing in his spare time.
Sonya Foster
Vice President, Central Marketing
Since joining Alpine Bank in 1994, Sonya has trained in many departments of the bank. She currently oversees the campaign and advertising strategies for bank-wide initiatives for the marketing department. She graduated from the School of Bank Marketing and Management at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL. Sonya is active in the Grand Junction community as a board member of the Mesa County Literacy Advocates, member of the Mesa County Communications Officers’ Association, and works with the Mesa County School District and Mesa County Libraries on various committees. In her spare time she enjoys hiking, biking, cooking, reading, and spending time with her husband, Billy, and their numerous pets.
Mark Martin-Williams
Assistant Vice President/Manager, Fruita
Mark originally hails from Glenwood Springs, CO. He received a bachelor’s degree in English literature from Colorado State University and an MBA from the University of Colorado at Denver. Mark manages the Fruita location and is very active in the community. He currently serves on the Fruita Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Home Care of the Grand Valley, is vice president of the Mesa County Libraries Board, and is on the steering committee for the Fruita Recreation Center. Mark has a lovely wife, Jenny, and is the proud father of three young girls, all under the age of five. In his spare time he enjoys the Colorado outdoors by hiking, biking, and golfing.
Brenda Cappo Brock
Assistant Vice President/Manager, Horizon Drive
Brenda was born and raised in Glenwood Springs, CO. She attended the University of Colorado at Boulder and graduated with a bachelor’s in business administration with an emphasis on finance. Brenda is the new manager of the Horizon Drive location. She currently serves on the Western Colorado Chapter of the American Red Cross Board of Directors, and the board of Grand Valley Young Professionals.
Trevor Johnson
Assistant Vice President, Downtown Grand Junction
Trevor joined Alpine Bank in May 2005, after graduating at the top of his class from Mesa State College. He attained a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration on marketing. Trevor originally hails from Basalt, CO, where he enjoyed his hobbies - skiing in the winter months and playing golf every day during the summer. Trevor is currently attending the Stonier Graduate School of Banking at the University of Pennsylvania. He serves on the boards of Grand Junction Housing Initiatives and Mesa County Business Education Foundation.
Kevin Chesney
Banking Officer, Communications Center
Kevin grew up in Fruita and attended Mesa State College after high school. He started with the Alpine Bank team in the communications and customer care center over 2 years ago. Kevin is also a successor of the bank’s management training program. He enjoys restoring classic cars, building models, and spending time with his wife, Renee, and their two children.
Kjerstin Hill
Banking Officer, Internet Banking Dept.
Kjerstin was born in Tacoma, WA. Growing up, she lived in many places across the western states. She joined the Alpine Bank team as a teller in 1996. Her technical and organizational talents led her to her current position as product development specialist for Alpine’s internet banking products and services. She also develops and maintains of Alpine Bank’s website.
Kjerstin is a volunteer for Mesa County Search and Rescue. She is married to husband of 13 years, Shawn, and has two Basset Hounds. Together, they enjoy climbing, hiking, riding ATVs, and off-roading.
Alpine Bank is a $2.2 billion dollar organization chartered in 1973 with headquarters in Glenwood Springs, CO. With 36 western and southwestern Colorado banking offices, Alpine serves close to 100,000 customers with retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage, and electronic banking services.
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| Alpine Bank Announces New Three Springs Location (October 1, 2007) |
Alpine Bank is expanding its presence in Southwest Colorado with the opening of a new location in Three Springs - Durango’s only traditional neighborhood development located in the Grandview corridor. Alpine Bank at Three Springs will meet the increasing needs of the bank’s growing client base by promoting a variety of products and services. Alpine Bank will open its doors in the heart of the Three Springs commercial district at 175 Mercado Street, Suite 119 in early spring 2008.
“Alpine Bank takes pride in developing strong community partnerships, Three Springs is quickly becoming a community that provides a place to live, work, shop and play, and Alpine Bank is excited to be a part of it”, said Regional President, Mike Burns.
Alpine Bank is a $2 billion dollar organization chartered in 1973 with headquarters in Glenwood Springs, CO. It has 35 banking offices serving over 100,000 customers with retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage, and electronic banking services.
Alpine Bank was recently awarded the National Philanthropy award for large businesses in Colorado. Alpine Bank has received local and national recognition for its creative philanthropic programs in the communities they serve. In 2006 Alpine Bank was awarded ISO 14001 certification, recognizing Alpine Bank as an international green business. ABC World News Tonight, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the American Bankers Association have highlighted the Bank’s community efforts.
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| Alpine Banks of Colorado (September 10, 2007) |
Glen Jammaron has been promoted to the position of President of Alpine Banks of Colorado J. Robert Young, Chairman announced today. Jammaron is a 22-year veteran with Alpine Banks, having joined the bank in 1985 upon graduating from Western State College. He has served a wide variety of executive positions with the banks, including Branch President, Head of Central Operations and as a long-term board member.
Jammaron succeeds Dave Scruby, who has been named President of Alpine Banks, Central Operations. Central Operations is the largest group within the Alpine Bank system, employing 130 people in locations in Rifle, Denver and Grand Junction. In his new role, Scruby will direct the banks expanded technological initiatives, online banking, the call center, as well as virtually all support divisions of the bank.
In making the announcement, Young also announced the banks’ record growth in earnings, deposits, and assets for the first six months of 2007.
Alpine Bank is a $2 billion asset organization chartered in 1973 with headquarters in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. With 35 western and southwestern Colorado banking offices, Alpine Bank serves over 100,000 customers providing retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage, and electronic banking services.
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| Alpine Bank Aspen Welcomes President Scott Gordon Back to His Former Roaring Fork Valley Home (July 25, 2007) |
It was just 8 years ago that then Alpine Bank Aspen Vice President, Scott Gordon, left his mountain home in the Roaring Fork Valley to cultivate the flourishing market in Steamboat Springs. Under his successful leadership, the bank grew to over $100 million in total assets. Now, it’s time for him to return home to his roots and continue the footprint of success Alpine Bank Aspen has forged.
“Our staff and customers are really excited for Scott’s return,” says Aspen Regional President Steve Briggs. “He is a great leader and all around a good person. Our customers will be very well taken care of by Scott.”
Gordon began his banking career in 1983 and moved to Aspen in 1988. He joined Alpine Bank Aspen in 1992 and will celebrate is fifteenth year of employment with Alpine Bank this year.
During his tenure with the Bank, he was:
Regional President-Steamboat Springs 1999 – 2007
V.P./Manger-Alpine Bank Carbondale 1997 –1999
Vice President-Alpine Bank Aspen 1992 – 1997
Gordon, who will be in Aspen full time beginning late August, is thrilled to be returning to the area.
“The people of the Aspen/Snowmass area hold a special place in my heart. I look forward to reconnecting with friends, clients and beginning my involvement in the community via civic and non-profit groups. Alpine Bank has a rich history of supporting the community so community involvement is second nature to me.
My families’ passions for cycling and skiing will keep us active and engaged in the outdoor lifestyle of Aspen/Snowmass.”
Gordon’s wife of twenty years, Dawn, and two boys, Bryce 16 and Brett 13 will join him in their return to Aspen/Snowmass.
Alpine Bank is a $2 billion asset organization chartered in 1973 with headquarters in Glenwood Springs, Colo. With 35 western and southwestern Colorado banking offices, Alpine Bank serves over 100,000 customers providing retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage, and electronic banking services.
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| Alpine Bank Telluride Remodel to Attain LEED Certification (July 24, 2007) |
Alpine Bank’s Green Team efforts are continuing on a successful path with the anticipated receipt of a LEED certification for its Telluride location remodel.
“One of the objectives of the Alpine Bank Green Team is to create a sustainable and healthy working environment, leaving as little of an environmental footprint as possible. This remodel was the opportune time to take advantage of meeting that objective and to set a standard for future location remodels in our other communities,” says Alpine Bank President Andrew Karow. “We worked in concert with our internal LEED Accredited Professional, Chad Mapp, and other local caring businesses to make sure we met the LEED requirements. The result is a beautiful building our customers and employees can feel good about being in.” Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Green Building Rating System™, or LEED, is considered the national benchmark for high performance green buildings. The Rating System is organized into five environmental categories; Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, and Indoor Environmental Quality. It is a performance-oriented system where credits are earned for satisfying each criterion. Different levels of green building certification are awarded based on the total credits earned; Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.
To meet the rigorous standards of LEED certification, Alpine Bank enlisted a full time employee, Chad Mapp, to oversee the process.
“The decisions we make when constructing or renovating a space have a profound impact on our natural environment, economy, health, and productivity,” says Mapp. “I am proud to be involved with a team that recognized this as an opportunity to build green and maximize both economic and environmental performance.” Located centrally in downtown Telluride, Alpine Bank receives LEED credit for its dense pedestrian traffic and easy access to two forms of public transportation, the Galloping Goose and via gondola to Mountain Village. The Bank encourages employees to take alternate forms of transportation with incentives and accommodates employees by providing shower facilities. For customers, the bank provides adequate bike and ski rack storage while conducting business.
Energy conservation is also key in earning LEED credits. Alpine’s new, highly efficient lighting system will save an estimated 35% in lighting electrical power without compromising lighting quality. This savings is in comparison to a conventional baseline system built to current energy code. In addition, the ceiling has been raised so that 90% of all regularly occupied spaces will have superior natural day lighting and views to the outside.
All eligible equipment and appliances are ENERGYSTAR rated. The boilers are 90+% efficient, greatly reducing natural gas consumption. And, the HVAC system is estimated to save a minimum of 30% in energy consumption with zero use of ozone depleting (CFC-based) refrigerants, versus a conventional baseline system build to current energy code.
Currently Alpine Banks of Colorado is in the process of gathering estimates to provide renewable energy credits to offset all of its locations. Telluride, specifically, would target a minimum of 50% of the electricity to be provided from renewable sources through a purchase agreement with Renewable Energy Choice.
The project utilized high efficiency SLOAN Optima Solis 0.5 gpm lavatories and Kohler Highline 1.1gpf low flow water closets in the restrooms. This resulted in an incredible 43.49% water savings over previous usage.
The Bank’s interior was designed to incorporate materials with recycled content including the ceiling tiles, furniture fabrics, Herman Miller chairs, and a break room countertop made of recycled glass aggregate. The carpet is CRI Green Label Plus certified for superior indoor air quality with 25% recycled content. Stone for the vault and teller line was recovered locally. Low VOC, or Volatile Organic Compound, paints, coatings, and adhesives to ensure indoor air quality were utilized as well. VOCs are harmful gases that release after manufacturing.
Deconstruction is not overlooked when seeking LEED credits either – an estimated 50% of demolition and construction waste was diverted from the landfill through donations to charities, and recycling efforts.
This great remodel would not have been successful if it weren’t for many local Telluride contributors. Alpine Bank would like to extend a hearty ‘Thank You’ to the following partners:
RLA Architects, Inc. – Architect, Dallas K. Reynolds
Mericana Corporation - General Contractor, Ray Bailis, VP
EnLighten - Lighting Consultant, Chris Myers
ME&E Engineering, Inc. – Mechanical Engineer, Dustin Sullivan, P.E.
Design Infinity – Interior Designer, Laura Cerny
EcoSpaces LLC – Sustainable Building Products, Joanna Kanow
Telluride Stone Co. – Natural Stone Products, Gary Herr In addition to Telluride, there are currently two new Alpine locations under construction that will seek LEED certification as well, Ridgway and South Rifle.
To learn more about Alpine Bank Telluride’s “green” remodel, contact Alpine Bank Telluride President Andrew Karow (970. 369.5399, or andrewkarow@alpinebank.com), or speak with LEED Accredited Professional Chad Mapp (970.625-7298 ext. 1344, or chadmapp@alpinebank.com).
Alpine Bank is a $2 billion asset organization chartered in 1973 with headquarters in Glenwood Springs, Colo. With 35 western and southwestern Colorado banking offices, Alpine Bank serves over 100,000 customers providing retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage, and electronic banking services. |
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| Alpine Bank Rolls Out Low-Cost Online Investing Service with ShareBuilder (April 2, 2007) |
Alpine Bank is teaming up with ShareBuilder, America's fastest growing online brokerage firm, to offer a cost effective online investing service. ShareBuilder is a low-cost way for the new investor to invest a set amount of money automatically every month.
For new investors, ShareBuilder eliminates the financial barriers to getting into the market and is simple and automatic. ShareBuilder also appeals to more sophisticated investors. They find that the service acts as a supplemental method to accumulate core holdings for their long-term objectives.
Key Features of ShareBuilder
- Customers can decide how much to invest –$25 a month or $100 a month – whatever amount fits their budgets.
- No account or investment minimums
- Customers can choose the stocks in which they want to invest, how much they want to invest and how they would like to fund their accounts.
- Investment options include one-time stock purchases or recurring fixed amounts at pre-selected intervals.
- Low transaction fees
Alpine Bank ShareBuilder
Customers can access their ShareBuilder account at www.alpinebank.com and choose to invest in over 7,000 stocks and Exchange-Traded Funds on a regular basis. Customers, who open a new ShareBuilder account and purchase one security, will receive a $40 bonus into their ShareBuilder account**.
About ShareBuilder
ShareBuilder (www.sharebuilder.com) is an online brokerage designed to make investing in the stock market simple and affordable. With no account or investment minimums, customers can choose from three automatic, dollar-based investing programs. ShareBuilder focuses on serving mainstream investors, with core values centered on responsible, conservative, long-term wealth building- “Saving, not trading”.
Individual transactions start at just $4* per investment, or customers can choose from two subscription-based programs that offer multiple stock purchases at even lower costs per transaction and advanced portfolio tools.
With an Automatic Investment Plan you can:
- Invest any dollar amount on Tuesdays exclusively online
- Schedule investments on a weekly or monthly basis
- Select from our list of over 7,000 stocks and ETFs
Investment and funding instructions can be edited up to 5:00 pm ET on the Monday before your purchase. Real-time buy and sell transactions are also available through market and limit orders. Real-time trade fees apply to all sales.
Investments in securities:
| Are Not Bank Guaranteed |
Are Not FDIC Insured |
May Lose Value |
*See web site for complete information, including full fee schedule. Does not include real-time trades.
** You must open a new ShareBuilder account and purchase at least one security to receive this offer. Please note the $40 credit will post to your account approximately 4-6 weeks after the first transaction executes. Not valid with IRA or Education Savings Accounts. Not valid with any other offers. ShareBuilder reserves the right to terminate this offer at any time. Limit one per unique customer or custodial beneficiary.
© 2006 ShareBuilder Corporation. ShareBuilder is a registered trademark of ShareBuilder Corporation. Patent Pending. ShareBuilder Securities Corporation, a registered broker dealer, is a subsidiary of ShareBuilder Corporation and Member NASD/SIPC. ShareBuilder is not affiliated with Alpine Bank. |
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| Colorado Mountain College Students to Receive Education Support Through Alpine Bank’s Loyalty Check Card Program (February 6, 2007) |
Alpine Bank is pleased to announce the newest addition to its Loyalty Visa Check Card collection – the Colorado Mountain College (CMC) Card. CMC and Alpine Bank are partnering together with the new card to help students overcome financial barriers and help better their lives through higher education.
“Colorado Mountain provides a vital educational role in every community they serve,” said J. Robert Young, Chairman of Alpine Banks, “Our partnership with them over the past thirty-plus years has resulted in a win-win situation for the community, the college, and the bank. We are proud to support the college with their continued efforts to provide needed educational opportunities to the greater community.”
Each time the card is used, Alpine Bank donates 10 cents on behalf of their customer’s loyalty to the CMC Foundation for general scholarships that will benefit nontraditional students. Though the average full-time CMC student is of traditional college age (18 to 21 years old), the majority of the community college’s students attend part-time. The average part-time CMC student is a 36-year-old woman who holds at least one job, in addition to taking two classes.
“We are extremely grateful to Alpine Bank for their leadership in this Loyalty Visa Check Card program,” said Alexandra Yajko, CEO of the CMC Foundation. Funding scholarships for nontraditional students will make it possible for more people to take classes to upgrade their job skills or open doors to a new career.
“These students don’t always have access to the same financial assistance as traditional-age students, so these scholarships will be most welcome.
“This program is just one more way Alpine Bank has partnered with CMC in meeting the learning needs of western Colorado over the past several decades, and we are honored by their generosity,” said Yajko.
Alpine Bank started the Loyalty Visa Check Card program in 1997 to reward customer loyalty and to benefit students, teachers, and schools needing classroom support. Thus the original Classroom Credits card was founded. The program is highly embraced by education supporters and since its inception has benefited thousands of students by contributing back to various educational initiatives across western Colorado. In fact, over $ 1 million in funding has aided our local classrooms and schoolchildren.
In 2004, the program was expanded to feature three new card categories that support local nonprofit groups and projects: Arts – provides a unique opportunity to help fund arts and culture in our communities; Community – benefits organizations that meet, support, and strengthen human needs; and Environment – helps local groups protect the ecosystems that are important to our daily lives. These card choices have contributed an additional $100,000 (and growing) to local efforts in just two years of their existence.
Alpine Bank is a $2 billion asset organization chartered in 1973 with headquarters in Glenwood Springs, Colo. With 33 western and southwestern Colorado banking offices, Alpine Bank serves close to 100,000 customers providing retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage, and electronic banking services.
Colorado Mountain College is a two-year, comprehensive community college that, through its 11 sites on seven campuses, serves the educational needs of a population spread across 12,000 square miles in north-central Colorado. The college provides liberal arts and science certificate and associate degree programs, basic and lifelong learning, and customized business training. CMC prepares Colorado’s workforce through apprenticeships, internships, and experiential learning in beautiful mountain settings. The college’s mission is Learning for Life.
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| IBC Scholarships Available for High School Seniors (January 30, 2007) |
Alpine Banks of Colorado, in conjunction with the Independent Bankers of Colorado, is pleased to announce an offering of at least two $1,000 scholarships for the 2007-2008 school year to deserving high school seniors.
The requirements for the scholarship competition are:-
A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above
- Acceptance to a Colorado university, college, junior college, or community college as a full time student
- Have an account or their parents have an account/relationship at Alpine Bank for at least six months
- Complete the application and essay question, and submit it to Alpine Bank by Friday, March 16, 2007
Application forms are available at any Alpine Bank, or online at www.ibcbanks.org(then click events, scholarship program, and then application). Interested students can send or deliver their completed forms to Alpine Bank by the March 16, 2007 deadline.
The scholarships are for $1,000 and may be used for costs of attending a Colorado university, college, junior college, or vocational/trade school. The scholarship awards are not based on financial need but on the quality of the application, the student’s references, and meeting the identified criteria.
Committed to supporting its community, Alpine Bank is a $2 billion asset organization chartered in 1973 with headquarters in Glenwood Springs, Colo. With 33 western and southwestern Colorado banking offices, Alpine Bank serves close to 100,000 customers providing retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage, and electronic banking services.
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| Mortgage Lender Joins Alpine Bank Team (September 26, 2006) |
Alpine Bank would like to welcome Micah Page to their family. Micah specializes in mortgage loans and works with primary and second homeowners in Telluride and the surrounding areas.
Raised in Telluride, Micah graduated with a degree in Political Science from the University of Colorado, Boulder. Before moving back home to Telluride, he spent the past eight years working in corporate software sales. “Working with executives and project teams at some of our country’s largest corporations provided me a great foundation for managing complex business transactions.”
Micah enjoys spending much of his spare time enjoying beautiful, outdoor Colorado by trail running, hiking, and skiing. This winter, community members will see Micah as a volunteer ski coach for the Telluride Freestyle Ski Team. Other community involvement includes working with the association of realtors.
“Having just returned from the San Francisco Bay Area, I'm very excited to be back in Telluride and a part of the Alpine Bank Mortgage Division,” says Micah. “I've always taken an enormous amount of pride in the level of service that I provide to my clients and I believe this will be an enormous benefit to our customers.”
Alpine Bank welcomes our community to stop in and meet Micah. He can be reached at the Telluride bank location, by phone at 369-5402 –wk: 708-9703 – cell, or by email at micahpage@alpinebank.com.
Alpine Bank is a $2 billion dollar organization chartered in 1973 with headquarters in Glenwood Springs, CO. It has 32 western slope banking offices serving close to100,000 customers with retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage, and electronic banking services.
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| Alpine Banks of Colorado Finalist for U.S. Chamber Corporate Citizenship Award (August 31, 2006) |
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The Business Civic Leadership Center, a 501(c)3 affiliate of the United States Chamber of Commerce, today announced that Alpine Banks of Colorado, headquartered in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, has been honored as a finalist for a Corporate Citizenship Award. Alpine Banks of Colorado is a finalist in the category Corporate Stewardship, Small/Mid-size Business.
The Corporate Stewardship Award is the most prestigious award in the field of corporate citizenship and recognizes businesses that integrate economic performance with a sustained contribution to community and social progress.
“The companies that are being recognized in the Corporate Stewardship category tell the real story of American business,” said Stephen Jordan, BCLC vice president and executive director. “The best companies succeed because they tailor every aspect of their business to serve their customers, investors, employees, and communities as effectively as possible.”
Nominated by Mesa County Valley School District #51, Alpine Banks of Colorado is being recognized for a combination of factors that reflect its social contributions and economic performance for the past year.
"We are honored to be a finalist for such a prestigious award," said Bob Young, Chairman, Alpine Banks. "We are likewise grateful to Mesa County Valley School District # 51, who nominated us. Ethical leadership and corporate stewardship are two of the core values that comprise our corporate mission. We are gratified that others recognize our efforts to demonstrate these traits in our community service," he concluded.
A committee of eminent Americans, chaired by Harvard University professor Michael Porter, will select the 2006 Corporate Stewardship Award winner.
The winner will be announced on November 8 at BCLC’s 7th annual Corporate Citizenship Awards Dinner at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in Washington, DC. U.S. Chamber President and CEO Thomas J. Donohue and Secretary of Commerce Carlos Gutierrez will present the award. The celebration will be held in conjunction with the U.S. Chamber Board of Directors’ fall dinner.
BCLC is the U.S. Chamber’s resource and voice for businesses’ social and philanthropic interests. Its mission is to advance the positive role of business in society. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region.
Alpine Banks of Colorado is a $2 billion dollar organization with 32 western
slope banking offices serving close to 100,000 customers with retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage, and electronic banking services. They employ more than 500 people in 8 western slope and southwest counties.
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| Alpine Bank Among Winners of Colorado Parent 2006 ‘Colorado Best Companies for Working Families’ Recognition Program (August 7, 2006) |
Colorado Parent™, the go-to-source for parents, has announced Alpine Bank as 5th place winner in the large company category of its 2006 "Colorado's Best Companies for Working Families" recognition program. The program highlights innovative organizations that help employees manage a healthy balance between work and family. This is the seventh consecutive year Alpine Bank has been recognized as one of "Colorado’s Best Companies for Working Families."
A panel of community leaders chose the most family-friendly organizations from the Colorado companies that submitted nomination forms. The judges selected the top five companies in four categories: large companies (with 500 or more Colorado employees), medium (with 100-499 employees), small (with less than 100 employees) and nonprofit organizations. Criteria included flexible work arrangements, childcare assistance and support, adoption benefits, extended leave for new parents, subsidized health and wellness benefits and community involvement.
Of Alpine Bank’s 500 plus employee base, the majority of both officers and employees are women. In order to attract and hold onto these important workers, Alpine Bank offers one of the most comprehensive benefit plans in Colorado. Many of these benefits are geared specifically for working mothers. For instance, both full and part-time employees are given medical, dental, life and disability insurance. In addition to insurance, a flexible spending account allows each employee up to $4,000 per year pre-tax for additional medical costs and $5,000 per year for dependent care costs.
Paid volunteer time is given each employee to enable them to work in their children’s classrooms, help with eldercare, or participate in community service activities. Full-time employees are given three full days per year (or 24 hours) to be used all at once or two or three hours at a time.
To encourage employees to take time with families and have time to relax and enjoy themselves, three work weeks (15 days) vacation is given to every full-time employee after one year. Five days can be sold back to the bank after two weeks have been taken off. In addition to vacation time, personal/sick time is also provided. (6 days per year) Part-time employees are given vacation and sick time on a pro-rated level.
Alpine bank also aids employees with dependent children in college, technical or vocational schools. $1,500 per year per student is allowed.
Additional employee benefits include:- First time home-buyers are offered loans at 100% LTV at reduced interest rates.
- $1200 per year Wellness Allowances are offered to employees to help them stay fit and healthy, including environmentally "fit".
- Interest free computer loans are also available to employees.
- Flextime, Job Sharing and Home Work opportunities abound at Alpine Bank.
- The bank funds an Employee Stock Ownership Plan, which has a vesting period of seven years.
- Each employee receives a potential year-end bonus based of profit performances.
The Colorado Parent winners are leading the way in making Colorado a great place to work and raise a family. They will be profiled in Colorado Parent magazine's October 2006 issue and will be honored at a special awards luncheon on Wednesday, Oct. 4 at The Brown Palace Hotel from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. All the companies that participated in the recognition program will be listed in the October 2006 issue of Colorado Parent.
Alpine Banks of Colorado is a $2 billion dollar organization with 32 western slope banking offices serving close to 100,000 customers with retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage, and electronic banking services. They employ more than 500 people in 8 western slope and southwest counties.
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| Alpine Bank Achieves Globally Recognized Environmental Certification (July 17, 2006) |
Alpine Bank is pleased to announce its most recent achievement of attaining ISO 14001:2004 certification for implementation and continued progress of their Environmental Management System (EMS). Alpine Bank joins a small, elite group of businesses in the United States that has earned ISO 14001:2004 certification. Thus far, the Bank appears to be the first in their industry in the USA to pioneer such an honor, and possibly the only one worldwide.
According to reports from the ISO Survey Certifications publication*, there were only 4,759 total ISO 14001 certificates issued yearend 2004 in the USA. These reported numbers reflect certificates issued in all industry sectors. North America hosts 6,743 of the 90,569 certificates issued globally as of yearend 2004.
Alpine Bank’s Green Team spearheaded a pro-active approach to managing
environmental issues within its geographic control. Every Alpine Bank employee and officer represents the Green Team, and each understands the important role they play in lessening their environmental footprint in the workplace.
Alpine Bank Vice Chairman Dave Scruby says, “How we as individuals and as business help sustain our environment is essential to our future. The Alpine Bank Green Team is truly a passionate, grass-roots effort started over a year ago by employees. I believe we are doing what is right and ethical for our long-term health and quality of the natural environment. With the Green Team’s leadership, we can honestly say we are making a difference.”
With the assistance of environmental consultant, John Gitchell of Sustainable Business Solutions, Alpine Bank created their EMS, a framework made of internal policies, guidelines, location and department action plans, and most importantly – systems to measure progress. All employees and officers are encouraged to share Alpine’s environmental initiatives and policies with community members and other businesses. Alpine Bank commits to resource efficient products, services, and practices; pollution prevention; renewable resources; continuous improvement through actions; regular performance audits; and community outreach, awareness, and education.
About ISO 14001:2004 Certification
International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 14001:2004 is primarily concerned with environmental management. Businesses must minimize harmful effects on the environment caused by its activities and must achieve continual improvement of its environmental performance.
Accredited ISO auditor, KPMG Performance Registrar Inc., reviewed Alpine Bank’s EMS and recommended the bank for certification. Employees were also
questioned during the audit to show their understanding of the bank’s EMS.
In mid-April of 2006, the Aspen City Council also presented an award to Alpine Bank for efforts to lessen their environmental footprint. The quarterly Green Tree award essentially marks recipients as all-around “Green” businesses and is given to organizations for meeting specific environmental standards.
Alpine Bank asks our communities and local businesses to join in our efforts to do their best at sustaining our environment. To learn more about our environmental efforts and energy saving tips, please visit us online at www.alpinebank.com.
Alpine Banks of Colorado is a $2 billion dollar organization with 32 western
slope banking offices serving close to 100,000 customers with retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage, and electronic banking services. They employ more than 500 people in 8 western slope and southwest counties.
* http://www.iso.org/iso/en/prods-services/otherpubs/pdf/survey2004.pdf
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| Alpine Banks of Colorado Achieves Multi-Billion in Assets (July 11, 2006) |
Alpine Bank Chairman J. Robert Young announced to shareholders the Bank has reached its goal of $2 billion dollars in assets. It was just less than 4 years ago, Alpine Bank exceeded assets of $1 billion dollars.
"Seventeen years ago, we reached the $100 million mark. Thus, in 17 years, our asset base has increased more than 20-fold. While we will undoubtedly establish a goal and timetable for $3 billion in assets, we are extremely grateful for the many customers, loyal employees, and board members who make this possible," says Young. "While we will continue to grow, we will also remember the same core values and community service that makes this success possible."
Alpine Bank has 32 western and southwestern slope banking offices serving close to 100,000 customers with retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage and electronic banking services. They employ more than 500 people in 8 counties.
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| Celebrate World Environment Day! (May 24, 2006) |
Alpine Banks of Colorado wishes to invite you, our customers and communities to celebrate World Environment Day on June 5, 2006. Celebration activities include…
- Day of June 5th, customers and community members may stop into any of the 32 Alpine Bank locations to enjoy refreshments, and those wearing green will receive an awareness gift for their observance and acknowledgement.
- Week of June 5th, a cell phone recycling event will be held at each location during the week of June 5th. Persons wishing to recycle their unused, inactive cell phones, can drop them off at their nearest location and Alpine Bank will cover recycling costs.
- Month of June, local environmental nonprofit groups will benefit from additional monies donated by Alpine Bank’s Environment Loyalty Check Card. Alpine Bank will double the Environment Card transaction donations (.20 per transaction) during the month of June.
World Environment Day will be celebrated annually through a grass roots Alpine Bank employee effort, the Alpine Bank Green Team. All Alpine Bank officers and employees are members of the Green Team and have a responsible role in the workplace to lessen their environmental impacts. A Green Team committee oversees an environmental management system that serves as a framework for continuous environmental improvements.
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| Mesa County Valley School District and Alpine Bank Mortgage Partner to Support Positive Behavior and Safe/Drug Free School Programs (May 24, 2006) |
Now, through September 30, 2006, Alpine Bank Mortgage will match the appraisal amount for new or refinanced mortgages (up to $350 per mortgage closed). Mortgagees may designate which MCVSD school they wish their donated appraisal amount to benefit. Donated funds will specifically benefit Positive Behavior Support (PBS) programs or the school’s Safe & Drug Free program.
About the benefiting programs
PBS is a structure geared to reduce behavioral incidents and increase academic achievement by developing and teaching school-wide behavioral expectations, then acknowledging students for appropriate behavior. It promotes consistency, common language and goals and increases school climate for both staff and students. Thirty District 51 schools will participate in PBS in the 2006-2007 school year.
Safe & Drug Free Schools programs are aimed at preventing student violence and substance abuse. Programs within each school provide resources to foster a safe and drug free learning environment and support academic achievement.
BR> Alpine Banks of Colorado is a $1.9 billion dollar organization with 32 western slope banking offices serving close to 100,000 customers with retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage, and electronic banking services. They employ more than 500 people in 8 western slope and southwest counties.
View the Partnership Newsletter by clicking here.*
*You must have Adobe Acrobat Reader to view this newsletter. If you do not have Adobe Acrobat Reader click here to download. |
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| Bob Young – Recipient of Athena Award (April 28, 2006) |
| J. Robert Young, Chairman of Alpine Banks of Colorado, was honored as the 2006 Athena Award recipient at the Glenwood Springs Chamber Resort Association's Annual Awards Luncheon. Athena International celebrates individuals who strive toward the highest levels of professional accomplishment, provide valuable service devoting time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in the community, and assist women in reaching their full leadership potential. Less than 5% of all Athena recipients are men. Alpine Bank, started in 1973, is a locally owned bank employing over 500 people and serving 32 locations on the western slope of Colorado. |
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| City of Aspen Awards Green Tree Award to Alpine Bank (April 11, 2006) |
The City of Aspen has awarded Alpine Bank their prestigious Green Tree award for meeting specific environmental standards. The quarterly award essentially marks recipients as all-around "Green" businesses who are consistently making efforts to lessen their environmental footprint. The award was presented to Alpine Bank at the Aspen City Council meeting on April 10, 2006.
Businesses wishing to be considered for the Green Tree award must show environmental commitment in at least 5 "Green Leaves" categories. The categories include commitment to counter global warning, conscientious purchasing, conservation, green building, recycling, toxic materials awareness, and unique efforts. Alpine Bank displayed efforts in 6 "Green Leaves" categories. To learn more about the Green Tree award, visit the City of Aspen online at www.aspenpitkin.com/depts/44.
Alpine Bank asks our communities and local businesses to join in our efforts and do their best at sustaining our environment. To learn more about our environmental efforts and energy saving tips, please visit us online at www.alpinebank.com.
Alpine Banks of Colorado is a $1.85 billion dollar organization with 32 western slope banking offices serving close to 100,000 customers with retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage, and electronic banking services. They employ more than 500 people in 8 western slope and southwest counties.
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| Alpine Bank Commits to Reducing Environmental Impacts (March 22, 2006) |
Alpine Banks of Colorado and its employees are implementing bank-wide systems, standards and practices to improve business performance and help sustain our beautiful environment and fragile ecosystems.
Leading the environmental charge, the Alpine Bank Green Team consists of senior managers and employees representing all Alpine Bank regions and internal departments.
Alpine Bank Vice Chairman Dave Scruby comments, “I'm so proud of the employees of our bank that continue to do more than just get a pay check, whether raising money for tsunami or hurricane victims, helping with local causes, or, as in this case, caring about our environment and quality of life ."
The Green Team has partnered with consultant John Gitchell of Sustainable Business Solutions, Inc. to establish an environmental management system (EMS) as a framework for continuous environmental improvements.
To build a successful EMS, the Team first developed an environmental policy that defines the banks’ environmental vision. The Green Team identified and prioritized the company’s environmental aspects and impacts, and implemented environmental action plans to address highest priorities. Monthly meetings help track and report progress, and identify new opportunities.
Alpine Bank is working toward “ISO 14001” certification – the internationally recognized standard for environmental management. In April, an accredited 3rd party audit firm will review the bank’s environmental program for certification.
"Within a short stretch of time, environmental improvements have become a core business strategy for Alpine Bank. To our knowledge Alpine Bank will be the first financial institution in the Colorado / Rocky Mountain region to earn ISO 14001 Certification - which speaks volumes about the level of commitment within the bank. It’s exciting to see our community leaders step up with spirit, and actions that help protect our western quality of life," says Gitchell.
Improved building performance, energy conservation, paper reduction, and recycling efforts are among the bank’s current priorities. One of the larger projects showing immense results is being taken on by the Downtown Grand Junction Alpine Bank location. All overhead light fixtures will be replaced by year-end in the ten story building. The new RT5 volumetric recessed lighting will reduce the current 920 fixtures to 680, saving over 2,300 light bulbs. A net savings of over 100,000 operational watts adds up to almost $8.00 per hour in energy savings.
Alpine Bank asks our communities and local businesses to join in their efforts and do their best at lessening their environmental footprint. To learn more about our environmental efforts and energy saving tips, please visit us online at www.alpinebank.com.
Alpine Banks of Colorado is a $1.85 billion dollar organization with 32 western slope banking offices serving close to 100,000 customers with retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage, and electronic banking services. They employ more than 500 people in 8 western slope and southwest counties. |
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| Alpine Bank Telluride welcomes new President (March 12, 2006) |
 Alpine Bank Telluride is pleased to welcome President Andrew Karow to the family. Karow will oversee business development and customer relationships in the Telluride area, respectively, giving Regional President Tom Kenning the opportunity to further develop the new Alpine Bank markets in Ouray, Ridgway, and Montrose.
Regional President Tom Kenning says, “The staff is really excited to be working with Andrew and I am at ease knowing our customers will have a seasoned, outgoing and trusted financial advisor to take care of their individual needs.”
Originally from Racine, Wisconsin, Andrew earned his undergraduate degree in Economics from the University of Wisconsin in 1990, Master of Business Administration from the University of Denver in 1996 and Graduated from the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin in 2001.
Andrew’s banking career started with Alpine Bank in the Vail Valley in 1996. After opening the Avon location, he served as Branch Manager in Vail from 2000-2006.
“It was great to ski Vail for the last 15 years, but I'm ready for a change to the steeps of Telluride! The people here have made a great impression on me. I look forward to meeting the members of our community and welcome your comments, questions and suggestions,” says Andrew. “In addition to the very friendly disposition Alpine Bank customers and employees have; I know this will be a great community in which to raise my family and operate a service-oriented business. Tom Kenning's leadership has built a solid organization here at Alpine Bank. I am truly privileged to work side by side with the bankers here at Alpine Bank in Telluride and look forward to serving the people of the community.”
Andrew and wife, Katie, enjoy skiing, mountain biking and sailing. Katie is a licensed real estate agent specializing in mountain resort properties. They have a beautiful 2 ½ -year old daughter, Morgan.
To contact Andrew Karow for comments, questions, or suggestions please call him directly at 970-369-5399, or email andrewkarow@alpinebank.com.
Alpine Banks of Colorado is a $1.85 billion dollar organization with 32 western slope banking offices serving close to 100,000 customers with retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage, and electronic banking services. They employ more than 500 people in 8 western slope and southwest counties. |
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| Alpine Bank goes for different kind of green (February 21, 2006) |
Alpine Bank is used to handling green, but being green is another matter. That may be about to change.
The Glenwood Springs-based bank is pursuing international certification in its environmental management practices. It's a standard that a few companies, like the Aspen Skiing Co., which has pursued its own aggressive green policy, have gone after.
But it's an unusual step for a bank, where the bottom line is usually the bottom line.
"It appears to be something that would be very healthy for us," said Dave Scruby, a vice president of the bank who has been involved in the effort. "It isn't real wild and crazy that's going to affect our shareholders. It's things that are going to help environmentally and help the bank in so many ways. We decided this is a good time to be business leaders."
The bank is working with a consultant to create an environmental plan for the bank's 32 branches intended to lessen its impact on the planet. The plan includes efforts like recycling and lowering paper use, to energy-efficient lights and building design.
John Gitchell, owner of Fort Collins-based Environmental Business Solutions, said he encouraged the bank to seek the international certification to add credibility to its environmental commitment. Alpine Bank is seeking what's called the ISO 14000, the environmental management certification through the Swiss-based International Organization for Standardization.
"It's pretty widely used and widely accepted as kind of the gold standard for environmental management," Gitchell said.
Over 760,000 organizations in 154 countries have been certified, including 2,620 in the United States. But Gitchell said he knows of no other American bank that has been certified.
"A bank is often kind of a pillar or center for a community," he said, "and a lot of banks tend to be organized around a lot of community leaders, so I think a really neat aspect of Alpine Bank taking this on is, there's a whole lot of influence a bank can have in a community. The fact that Alpine Bank is taking this on is really encouraging and could have a broad community impact."
The bank has established a "Green Team" of employees interested in looking at the bank's environmental practices and seeing where there's room to improve. The 27-person team spans the bank's Steamboat Springs-to-Durango region and just about every department.
"We're in this beautiful place in western Colorado," said Kathye Martini, an internal auditor at Alpine Bank's Carbondale branch and a leader of the Green Team. "I know personally I'd like to preserve it. It's great that Alpine Bank supports that, because our success is based on our communities and the natural resources we have here."
The idea stemmed from an employee comment, Scruby said. At a regular chat between executives and employees, an employee at the Snowmass Village branch wondered why the bank wasn't more environmentally conscious.
"It was my big mouth," said operations supervisor Clare Fuller.
"I thought we could be looked upon as a bank moving forward environmentally," she said. "Why not get on the bandwagon?"
Scruby said when she asked the question, he couldn't come up with a good answer. As he looked into it, he said, he found what was good for the environment was also good for the bank.
"In the long run, almost everything is going to save us money," he said. It also paid off for employees to see buy-in from executives, he said.
"And, I think it's a positive reflection on us. As a business leader, I think that really bode well with our fellow businesses," he said.
The bank is adding a recycling program, cutting down on its paper usage and switching to recycled paper. It used to shred just its confidential documents. According to a new plan, everything will get shredded and recycled. It's switching to energy saving lights and properly disposing of burned-out bulbs. It's reducing its use of chemicals and switching to more earth-friendly cleaning products. And it's looking at more energy-efficient building designs for new buildings.
The bank's environmental practices will be audited each year to see how well the policy is being put into action.
"It's a pretty rigorous standard," Gitchell said. "Basically the certification says you have your environmental program in order and it's functioning as a system. You're continually improving and you're addressing things that need to be addressed according to what your priorities are."
The initial push for the plan started in mid-2004. Green Team members have been meeting since August. They hope to be certified by mid-2006.
"I think it's a great step for us," Martini said. |
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| Alpine Bank Recognized by the American Red Cross for Hurricane Katrina Efforts |
Jean Hermanson, Executive Director for the American Red Cross, Western Colorado Chapter, recently presented a special award to Alpine Bank Chairman Bob Young at Alpine Bank’s annual employee recognition event. The award represents the immense community and Alpine Bank employee support for Hurricane Katrina efforts. Donations nearing $400,000 were raised and contributed to the American Red Cross.
“This award is to recognize the commitment Alpine Bank has not only to our local communities, but to others who are truly in need of support”, states Hermanson. “We are grateful to have caring organizations like Alpine Bank spearhead such gratuitous loyalty.”
“There is no doubt in anyone’s mind that the American Red Cross holds the longevity and experience to react and assist in a disaster like Hurricane Katrina. Our employees and communities stepped forward to contribute to a cause that affected us all”, said Young. “This award is accepted on behalf of our generous communities and employees”.
The American Red Cross, Western Colorado Chapter, offers immediate emergency assistance throughout a 10-county area. In addition, they provide health and safety educational programs, and training to interested community members. Volunteers are essential to the program’s success. Also essential are the financial contributions that provide tools and supplies enabling the American Red Cross to quickly and efficiently react to victim needs in the event of a disaster.
To offer a donation or learn more about volunteer efforts, contact Jean Hermanson at (970) 242-4851, or by email at chapter@arcwcc.org.
Alpine Banks of Colorado is a $1.75 billion dollar organization with 32 western slope banking offices serving close to 100,000 customers with retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage and electronic banking services. They employ more than 450 people in eight western slope and southwest counties.
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| Alpine Bank of Colorado acquire First National Bank Telluride (January 1, 2006) |
Final agreements to acquire First National Bank Telluride were official as of 12:01 a.m. on January 1, 2006. The cash transaction for $36 million includes the Telluride, Ouray, Ridgway and Montrose Bank locations. First National Bank officers and employees have joined Alpine Banks’ staff. The four new Alpine Bank locations will continue to operate under the leadership of President Tom Kenning, who will be joining the Alpine Bank Board of Directors.
With the addition of the four new locations, Alpine Banks of Colorado reflects positive growth as a $1.75 billion dollar organization. They have 33 western slope banking offices serving close to 100,000 customers with retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage, and electronic banking services.
Customers and community members are invited to join the new banks for their Open House events scheduled for this month: Alpine Bank Ouray, located at 917 Main, will celebrate their Open House on January 11, with a Pre Ice-Fest Chili-Cook Off in the bank lobby from 9:00 – 5:00 p.m.;
Alpine Bank East Montrose, located at 1400 E. Main Street, will host their lobby event from 1:00– 5:00 p.m. on January 13; Alpine Bank Ridgway, 133 N. Lena, will host the Ridgway Chamber Business After Hours at the bank from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. on January 19; and Alpine Bank Telluride, 120 S. Pine Street, will host their Open House on January 25 from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. in their bank lobby.
First National Bank was chartered in 1992 in Telluride when long time Denver banker Charles Ferguson recognized the town’s need for a second local bank while attending the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, which is produced by his son Craig Ferguson. With many local shareholders, the bank has enjoyed exceptional success. Chairman Ferguson says: “In Alpine Bank we have found an organization that truly cares about its communities and its people, and that’s a perfect match for us and the values we hold as an organization. With the additional products, services and loan capabilities Alpine Bank brings to us, we’re better able to meet the growing needs of our customers in today’s dynamic business environment. We know the success we have enjoyed is due to our loyal customers and dedicated staff. With Alpine Bank we have the right organization to serve our customers going forward.”
Alpine Bank Chairman Young says: “Charlie Ferguson and his leadership team have done an outstanding job serving all the First National Bank stakeholders. They have set the bar high. We feel a tremendous sense of responsibility to their employees, customers and communities.”
Alpine Bank Vice Chairman Dave Scruby says the First National Management Team: “Has grown their bank with great skill and a commitment to their customers that makes them a great match for us. We can learn much from them and we’re glad President Tom Kenning and his staff are on our Alpine Bank Team.”
Alpine Bank was chartered in 1973 with headquarters in Glenwood Springs, CO.
Alpine Bank Chairman J. Robert Young, named Colorado’s Outstanding Philanthropist in 1995, has led the Bank’s community involvement activities. Alpine Bank has received local and national recognition for its creative philanthropic programs in the communities they serve. The Bank was 2001 Colorado Company of the Year as named by Colorado Biz Magazine and the University of Denver Daniels College of Business as well as a six-time winner of the Best Companies for Working Families Award from Colorado Parents Magazine. The Bank’s community efforts have been highlighted by ABC World News Tonight, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the American Bankers Association. |
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| Alpine Bank of Colorado to acquire First National Bank Telluride (October 24, 2005) |
Alpine Bank Chairman J. Robert Young today announced that Alpine Bank has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the First National Bank Telluride. The cash transaction for $36 million includes the Telluride, Ouray, Ridgway and Montrose Bank locations. Pending regulatory approval, the transaction should be completed before the end of 2005. First National Bank officers and employees will join Alpine Banks’ staff; there will be no officer or employee job cuts.
First National Bank was chartered in 1992 in Telluride when long time Denver banker Charles Ferguson recognized the town’s need for a second local bank while attending the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, which is produced by his son Craig Ferguson. With many local shareholders, the bank has enjoyed exceptional success with assets over $150 million today. Chairman Ferguson says: “In Alpine Bank we have found an organization that truly cares about its communities and its people, and that’s a perfect match for us and the values we hold as an organization. With the additional products, services and loan capabilities Alpine Bank brings to us, we’re better able to meet the growing needs of our customers in today’s dynamic business environment.
We know the success we have enjoyed is due to our loyal customers and dedicated staff. With Alpine Bank we have the right organization to serve our customers going forward.”
Alpine Bank Chairman Young says: “Charlie Ferguson and his leadership team have done an outstanding job serving all the First National Bank stakeholders. They have set the bar high. We feel a tremendous sense of responsibility to their employees, customers and communities.”
Alpine Bank Vice Chairman Dave Scruby says the First National Management Team: “Has grown their bank with great skill and a commitment to their customers that makes them a great match for us. We can learn much from them and we’re glad President Tom Kenning and his staff are on our Alpine Bank Team.”
Alpine Bank is a $1.5 billion dollar organization chartered in 1973 with headquarters in Glenwood Springs, CO. It has 29 western slope banking offices serving over 75,000 customers with retail, business, trust, asset management, mortgage, and electronic banking services.
Alpine Bank Chairman J. Robert Young, named Colorado’s Outstanding Philanthropist in 1995, has led the Bank’s community involvement activities. Alpine Bank has received local and national recognition for its creative philanthropic programs in the communities they serve. The Bank was 2001 Colorado Company of the Year as named by Colorado Biz Magazine and the University of Denver Daniels College of Business as well as a six-time winner of the Best Companies for Working Families Award from Colorado Parents Magazine. The Bank’s community efforts have been highlighted by ABC World News Tonight, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the American Bankers Association.
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| Alpine Bank waives ATM Fees for Hurricane Katrina Victims (September 14, 2005) |
As Hurricane Katrina relief efforts continue, western Colorado is reaching out by providing housing assistance to many displaced families and individuals. Alpine Bank would like to further help those that have been relocated to our communities by waiving ATM transaction fees.
Qualifying ATM, debit, credit, and Red Cross/FEMA cardholders may access their accounts without paying a transaction fee by using any of Alpine Bank’s 43 ATMs. Fees will be waived starting Friday, September 16, 2005, and will continue through August 1, 2006.
For further information, contact Sonya Foster at (970) 254-2019.
Alpine Bank is a $1.5 billion dollar community bank with 29 retail offices, employing more than 425 in 8 western Colorado counties.
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| Snowmass Samaritans and Alpine Bank pledge additional matching funds for Hurricane Katrina Relief efforts (September 2, 2005) |
Due to the ongoing devastation of Hurricane Katrina and continued emergency relief efforts, Alpine Bank will contribute an additional $15,000.00 to the previously pledged $10,000.00.
Snowmass Village Samaritans Richard and Susan Goodwin have also pledged up to $25,000.00 to further match community donations collected by Alpine Banks of Colorado.
To make a donation, donors can visit any Alpine Bank location or make a donation with a credit card online at www.alpinebank.com.
All donations will be forwarded on to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund.
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| Alpine Bank wins National Marketing Awards (August 1, 2005) |
Alpine Banks of Colorado is pleased to announce their recent accomplishments awarded by the American Bankers Association (ABA) Marketing Network 2005 Advertising Awards. Two awards were given recognizing the Alpine Bank “Alpine Swines” Project for Literacy campaign.
The “Alpine Swines” were elected “Best of the Best” and “Judges Special Recognition” by the ABA judging panel. The ABA received close to 400 entries nation-wide. From those, judges awarded 1 Best of Show, 1 Best of Humor, 2 Judges Special Recognition, 9 Best of the Best awards and 44 Certificates of Excellence. Judging was based on various media categories, including multimedia. An awards reception will be held on September 7, 2005 in Miami, Florida at the national ABA Marketing Network Conference.
The summer of 2004 posed a fun and innovative fundraising project to benefit literacy for Alpine Banks of Colorado. Fifteen larger than life fiberglass swine were professionally painted by local artists and then paraded across the western slope for Alpine Bank communities to enjoy. Posters, trading cards, information booklets, and replica piggy banks all followed suit to reestablish the importance of literacy to both adults and children. The “Swines” were auctioned off at the end of the year with proceeds benefiting local literacy nonprofit groups and projects.
For more information about “Alpine Swines”, contact Sonya Foster at sonyafoster@alpinebank.com.
Alpine Bank is a 1.4 billion dollar community bank with 28 locations,
employing more than 425 in 8 western slope and southwest counties.
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| Corsentino wins 2004 Athena Award (April 30, 2004) |
Sue Corsentino brings strength, commitment and compassion to everything she does, says her friend, Ginger Watts.
On Thursday, Watts and other business and community leaders honored Corsentino for those qualities by presenting her with the 2004 Athena Award. The award is given in communities across the United States, Canada and Russia to women, and a few men, who are strong role models and mentors for women in business and professional careers.
Corsentino is the 11th Athena recipient in Glenwood Springs, and seven previous winners presented the award to her during the Glenwood Springs Chamber Resort Association’s 17th annual awards luncheon, held at the Hotel Colorado. “I really feel very humble to be up here with these women who have done so much,” Corsentino said in an impromptu speech. She said later that she was totally surprised to receive the award.
“I was totally blessed to fall into Glenwood Springs, and to be able to raise my sons here. Coming from the south side of Chicago, it was really something,” she said, holding a giant bouquet of flowers presented by her sons Dominic and Kirk LaGiglia, both of Denver, who made a surprise appearance at the event.
‘Brings out the good’
She recalled two employers who served as “incredible mentors” in her career: Alpine Mortgage owner Molly Downs, who she called “the most special woman in the world,” and Alpine Bank owner Bob Young, who she called “the most philanthropic man.”
In her 17 years at Alpine Bank, Corsentino climbed the ladder of corporate success without stepping on anyone else, Young wrote in a nomination letter. She is now the vice president for marketing for Alpine Banks from Glenwood Springs to Battlement Mesa.
Watts, the 2003 Athena winner, said Corsentino is gracious with her own success, and enjoys watching her co-workers succeed.
In nominating her, co-workers said Corsentino “exudes sincerity and conscientiousness in all she does,” “has the credibility to motivate others,” and “brings out the good in others.” She is a relentless community volunteer, organizing the senior volunteer days at Alpine Bank, when bank employees do tasks at the homes of senior citizens, winning the Kiss-A-Pig contest for YouthZone in 2000, serving as a chamber ambassador, and serving on the boards for LIFT-UP, Literacy Outreach, the Downtown Development Authority and Transportation & You. Corsentino sees all this as her own gain.
“I’ve had the opportunity to help other people. I’ve been so blessed. I just can’t believe it. Thank you so much,” she said. More... |
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