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Make a Donation through Coinstar at Asheville Savings Bank and help the Survivors of the Haiti Earthquake
Contact: Alicia Hammonds, Publicis
317-639-5135, alicia.hammonds@publicis-usa.com
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (January 20, 2010)—Asheville Savings Bank (ASB) and Coinstar are making it easy for people to donate money to the victims of the Haiti earthquake through a special UNICEF fund.
To make a donation at the Coinstar machine, select Donate and choose the Haiti Fund logo. Each donor will receive a receipt for tax purposes. Your donation will help those in need receive essential supplies. For questions or concerns please contact your local Asheville Savings Bank location.
Asheville Savings Bank locations with Coinstar machines are as follows:
Enka-Candler
907 Smoky Park Hwy, Candler, NC 28715
828 667-4200
Marion
162 North Main St., Marion, NC 28752
828 652-3141
800 619-1682
Reynolds Office
5 Olde Eastwood Village Boulevard, US 74 East, Asheville, NC 28803
828 298-8711
Skyland
1879 Hendersonville Rd., Asheville, NC 28803
828 687-0774
West Asheville
1012 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806
828 254-1778
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 13 offices with 167 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. It is the oldest, locally managed, independent financial institution in Buncombe County. On September 30, 2009, the bank had assets of $749 million.
Asheville Savings Bank and OnTrack
Host a Children’s Financial Literacy Poster Contest
Contact: Alicia Hammonds, Publicis
317-639-5135, alicia.hammonds@publicis-usa.com
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (January 19, 2010) – Asheville Savings Bank (ASB) and OnTrack Financial Education and Counseling are partnering together for the 2010 Be Money Wi$e National Financial Literacy Poster Contest for students in grades 3-5. The winners of the local contest will be entered into the national campaign sponsored by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC). The 2010 theme is “$mart Money Choices = A Brighter Future,” since starting young is one of the keys to financial success.
The contest is designed to educate young children and students on financial literacy and money management. Creating their own posters will allow students to channel their creativity, as well as illustrate their financial knowledge.
“It is a simple, creative way to introduce new financial concepts, while allowing students to be hands-on,” said Celeste Collins, OnTrack Executive Director. “This contest encourages kids to think about financial responsibility at an early age and promotes ideas that are foundational for their financial future.”
Judges will look for expression of the theme, artwork style, content and creativity in all poster submissions. Prizes will be awarded on both a national and local level. Local winners will be announced on April 27. The first place winner will receive $100; second place: $75; and third place: $50. The award presentation will also feature an appearance by mascot Dime-a-saurus.
The national winners will receive a T-shirt, an award plaque, a $500 savings bond and an all-expense paid trip with a parent or guardian to Washington, D.C. The winner will be officially recognized as part of National Financial Literacy Month celebrations in Washington, D.C. in April.
Students in grades 3-5 can submit their poster by Feb. 19 at any Asheville Savings Bank location.
For more information on the NFCC’s Annual National Financial Literacy Poster Contest, please visit their Web
site, www.MoneyWisePosterContest.org. To learn more about your local contest, visit your nearest Asheville
Savings Bank.
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 13 offices with 167 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. It is the oldest, locally managed, independent financial institution in Buncombe County. On September 30, 2009, the bank had assets of $749 million.
About OnTrack
OnTrack Financial Education & Counseling, formerly Consumer Credit Counseling Service of WNC, is a community-based non-profit agency dedicated to helping people manage their money and credit better. Since 1973 OnTrack
has been providing professional, confidential money management counseling, education programs and debt
repayment plans. OnTrack’s service area includes Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Clay, Cherokee, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Swain, Transylvania, Watuaga, and Yancey
Counties. For additional information or to schedule an appointment call the OnTrack in Asheville at 255-5166 or
toll free 1-800-737-5485 or www.ontrackwnc.org.
Asheville Savings Bank Announces New Location of Branch in Mars Hill
ASB moves location to historic bed and breakfast and offers innovative dialog banking
Contact: Alicia Hammonds, Publicis
317-639-5135, alicia.hammonds@publicis-usa.com
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (October 23, 2009)—Asheville Savings Bank (ASB) is proud to announce the new location of the Mars Hill branch to 105 Main St., a historic bed and breakfast that will be renovated and open for business in spring 2010. This new location will offer ample parking for customers, two drive-up lanes for banking transactions and a drive-up ATM, as well as additional interior space for serving the customers of Madison County.
“Asheville Savings Bank is delighted to have the opportunity to relocate our Mars Hill Banking Center to this building that holds so much significance to the history of the Mars Hill community. The renovations will be completed with as few changes to the exiting building and property as possible in order to create efficiency and ease for our customers, while maintaining the character of the building.” said Suzanne DeFerie, President & CEO.
While final architectural plans are not yet completed, ASB intends to initiate dialog banking at this location, a new way of transacting business that doesn’t require teller lines and desks; thus, allowing the building to maintain its original design.
Dialog banking involves “cash recyclers,” which eliminate tellers from directly handling money. This provides a safer banking environment and allowing bank employees to interact more with customers and assist them with anything from basic transactions to loans all at one station. Overall, this style of banking provides a more customer friendly environment.
“We are excited to be one of the first banks in Western North Carolina to offer Dialogue Banking. The setup will add convenience for customers and eliminate long teller lines. Although, renovations need to be made to the historic home and the property surrounding the house, Asheville Savings Bank is doing everything possible to maintain the integrity and charm of the house, right down to the rocking chairs on the front porch,” DeFerie said.
For more information or to set up an interview with Suzanne DeFerie please contact Lisa Alford at 828-250-8499 or lalford@ashevillesavings.com.
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 13 offices with 167 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. It is the oldest, locally managed, independent financial institution in Buncombe County. On September 30, 2009, the bank had assets of $749 million.
Asheville Savings BanK UVEST Financial Advisor Continues Education
Jim Laughlin attended LPL Financial conference to stay abreast of trends in the industry
and better serve the community
Contact: Alicia Hammonds, Publicis
317-639-5135, alicia.hammonds@publicis-usa.com
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (Aug. 31, 2009)—Jim Laughlin, Asheville Savings Bank's (ASB) UVEST financial advisor, recently attended focus09, a leading financial services industry conference hosted by LPL Financial. The conference is one of the industry’s largest educational events and took place in San Diego from Aug. 16 to Aug. 19.
Laughlin attended the conference to learn new strategies and skills, expand knowledge in numerous product areas, and gain valuable knowledge to help him continually improve the service to ASB clients.
Laughlin participated in business sessions, technology training and continuing education classes at the event. Influential speakers addressed current events and financial industry trends and included George W. Bush, 43rd president of the United States; Richard Ketchum, CEO of FINRA; and Ron Insana, CNBC senior analyst.
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 13 offices with 178 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. It is the oldest, locally managed, independent financial institution in Buncombe County. On June 30, 2009, the bank had assets of $743 million.
Area Residents Targeted in Phone Scam
ASB Reminds Consumers to Never Give Personal Information Over the Phone
Contact: John Dietrich, Asheville Savings Bank
828-250-8402, jdietric@ashevillesavings.com
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (May 26, 2009)— Asheville Savings Bank (ASB) has been made aware of a phone scam targeting area residents to gain personal information. The phone scam has several variations and uses both a live person and automation. Customers have been told their account has been compromised and additional information such as debit card numbers and other personal information is needed.
ASB advises consumers to avoid providing these callers with any information. Supplying this information can lead to identity theft. The amount of information they currently have is not enough to do any harm. If you have received one of these phone calls and gave out your information please contact your bank.
To avoid being a victim of this phone scam and other solicitations, please hang up if:
- You don't know the person to whom you are talking.
- An unknown caller asks you for your Social Security Number, credit card numbers, bank account numbers or date of birth.
- You receive a call asking you for personal information to win a prize.
- You are called and asked to verify information about your credit cards. If the caller claimed to be a bank representative, hang up and call your bank directly using a valid number from a telephone book or the bank's web site. Remember that Asheville Savings Bank will never call you and ask for your personal information over the phone.
Criminals using phone scams are looking for unsuspecting individuals who will give them important information such as Social Security Numbers, dates of birth, credit card numbers or bank account numbers. Once they have your information, they use it to make fraudulent purchases, obtain credit or access bank accounts.
For more information please visit www.ashevillesavings.com or call your local branch manger.
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 13 offices with 173 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. It is the oldest, locally managed, independent financial institution in Buncombe County. On March 31, 2009, the bank had assets of $724 million.
Asheville Savings Bank Hires New CFO, Bill Richmond
Contact: Alicia Hammonds, Publicis
317-639-5135, alicia.hammonds@publicis-usa.com
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (May 12, 2009)—Asheville Savings Bank (ASB) would like to extend a warm welcome to Bill Richmond, as the new chief financial officer (CFO). Richmond has more than 25 years of extensive experience in banking and accounting. Throughout his career, he has gained knowledge in strategic planning, investor relations, investment management, budget development and financial modeling.
As the CFO, Richmond’s responsibilities include managing bank investments and accounting, as well as overseeing the financial and regulatory process.
Richmond graduated from the Darden Graduate School of Business at the University of Virginia, where he received his master’s degree in business administration. He is also a Paul Harris Fellow of Rotary International. A Tennessee resident, Richmond married his high school sweetheart. In his free time, Richmond enjoys investing, technology, working around his home, reading and spending time with his dog, Chance.
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 13 offices with 180 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. It is the oldest, locally managed, independent financial institution in Buncombe County. On December 31, 2008, the bank had assets of $705 million.
Asheville Savings Bank Welcomes Lisa Alford as Marketing Coordinator
Contact: Alicia Hammonds, Publicis
317-639-5135, alicia.hammonds@publicis-usa.com
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (April 29, 2009)—Asheville Savings Bank (ASB) welcomes Lisa Alford as the new marketing coordinator. Alford has more than 15 years of diverse experiences in marketing and design. Throughout her career, she has held positions as an entrepreneur, graphic designer, associate creative director and senior designer.
As the marketing coordinator at ASB, some of Alford’s responsibilities include coordinating and implementing communication projects while maintaining budgets, schedules and tracking for all media campaigns. Alford has worked with clients ranging from local not-for-profit groups to large international corporations in several different industries.
Recently new to North Carolina, formerly from Ohio, Alford uses her free time to volunteer in various animal rescue groups, including, Mid-Atlantic Great Dane Rescue, Great Dane Friends of Ruff Love, and Asheville’s Brother Wolf Animal Rescue. Her Great Dane, Lucy, is also being certified as a Therapy Dog. Once certified, Alford hopes to take Lucy to visit the pediatric floors at Mission Hospital.
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 13 offices with 180 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. It is the oldest, locally managed, independent financial institution in Buncombe County. On December 31, 2008, the bank had assets of $705 million.
Asheville Savings Bank Welcomes Four Experts to the ASB Mortgage Teams
Contact: Alicia Hammonds, Publicis
317-639-5135, alicia.hammonds@publicis-usa.com
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (March 04, 2009)—Asheville Savings Bank (ASB) has added four experts to the ASB mortgage loan team, Michael Ledford, Glenn Kavanagh, Bunny Smith and Joseph Wilson. As a Mortgage Loan Originators, they will provide the community with helpful knowledge about ASB mortgages.
Ledford will be working at the Hendersonville branch as the Mortgage Loan Originator and has more than 10 years of experience in the financial industry. He earned an MBA from Webster University and was born and raised in Buncombe County.
Kavanagh brings 18 years of experience to the main Asheville branch. A graduate of the University of South Carolina, he has lived in Asheville for two years. In his spare time, Kavanagh enjoys photography and traveling.
The youngest Mortgage Loan Originator, Wilson graduated from Western Carolina University and is a native of North Carolina. He is a member of the McDowell County Board of Realtors and enjoys golfing, soccer and tennis.
Since changing her career from nursing to finance, Smith has more than 18 years of experience in the banking industry. She enjoys gardening, walking and is an active member of the North Asheville Baptist Church.
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 13 offices with 180 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. It is the oldest, locally managed, independent financial institution in Buncombe County. On December 31st, 2008, the bank had assets of $705 million.
Asheville Savings Bank Welcomes Chris Fowler and Deborah Neal to the ASB Team
Contact: Alicia Hammonds, Publicis
317-639-5135, alicia.hammonds@publicis-usa.com
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (March 04, 2009)—Asheville Savings Bank (ASB) would like to welcome Chris Fowler and Deborah Neal as they join the ASB team as Assistant Vice President Banking Center Managers. Fowler and Neal will be responsible for banking center management and business development.
Fowler brings more than eight years of experience to the ASB Marion branch. A native of North Carolina, he earned an MBA from Gardner-Webb University and enjoys golfing, skiing and bowling in his spare time.
Neal’s interest in the financial industry began as a summer floating teller while in college. Now she has more than eight years of experience in the field and is an active member in the Rotary Club of Hendersonville and the Hendersonville Chamber of Commerce.
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 13 offices with 180 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. It is the oldest, locally managed, independent financial institution in Buncombe County. On December 31st, 2008, the bank had assets of $705 million.
Asheville Savings Bank Welcomes Karen Carpenter and Scott Workman
to the ASB Team
Contact: Alicia Hammonds, Publicis
317-639-5135, alicia.hammonds@publicis-usa.com
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (March 04, 2009)—Asheville Savings Bank (ASB) is proud to announce the addition of Scott Workman and Karen Carpenter to the ASB team as Banking Center Managers. In their new positions, Carpenter and Workman will be responsible for cultivating branch growth and development while providing financial planning for community members.
Carpenter has joined the Reynolds branch in Asheville and brings with her more than eight years of experience in the banking industry. Carpenter and her husband moved to Canton earlier this year.
A native of North Carolina, Workman has nine years of experience in financial services. Workman is involved in the local community and is a supporter of the United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County.
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 13 offices with 180 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. It is the oldest, locally managed, independent financial institution in Buncombe County. On December 31st, 2008, the bank had assets of $705 million.
Publicis Indianapolis and Asheville Savings Bank Earn Merit Award from Service Industry Advertising Awards
Contact: Alicia Hammonds, Publicis
317-639-5135, alicia.hammonds@publicis-usa.com
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (February 12, 2009)— Publicis Indianapolis and Asheville Savings Bank (ASB) have earned the Service Industry Advertising Awards (SIAA) Merit Total Ad Campaign for work produced for the ASB mortgage promotion. The advertising pieces included print and outdoor ads along with posters and other in branch materials.
The SIAA is a national industry association that recognizes excellence in marketing and advertising in service industries. More than 250 advertising agencies and 900 service institutions participated in the SIAA awards.
“We’re thrilled to be recognized for our work by the Service Industry Advertising Awards,” said Tom Hirschauer, president and general manager of Publicis Indianapolis. “Our team is extremely proud of the work we’ve done on behalf of ASB and the services they market to their customers.”
About Publicis
Publicis Indianapolis is part of Publicis USA and Publicis Group, a unit of Publicis Worldwide, the original advertising network of Paris-based Publicis Groupe S.A., which is the world’s fourth largest communications group. For more information, please visit publicisindianapolis.com.
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 13 offices with 180 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. It is the oldest, locally managed, independent financial institution in Buncombe County. On December 31st, 2008, the bank had assets of $705 million.
Dime-a-Saurus Makes Debut During the Traveling Moneyville Exhibit at The Health Adventure
Contact: Alicia Hammonds, Publicis
317-639-5135, alicia.hammonds@publicis-usa.com
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (January 27, 2009) — In partnership with OnTrack, a charitable organization that provides financial education and counseling, Asheville Savings Bank is sponsoring the “Common Cents for Kids” program. It is a high-energy and interactive program providing basic financial education and includes a dinosaur mascot named Dime-a-Saurus, or Dime for short. As part of the program, Dime visits local schools to teach children the importance of saving money and the difference between needs and wants.
To put the “Common Cents for Kids” program into practice, ASB is offering children ages 12 and under a Dime-a-Saurus savings account. The savings account includes a Dime membership card, deposit book and educational materials all year long. As an extra incentive, kids will receive a toy prize for every $50 saved.
Dime’s first public appearance will take place during the traveling Moneyville Exhibit at The Health Adventure, a childern’s health and science museum, Saturday Feb. 7. Admission to the museum will be just 10 cents from 9 to 11 a.m. for kids 12 and under. While touring the town of Moneyville, kids will also get a chance to meet Dime, win prizes and open Dime-a-Saurus savings accounts.
Who: Children 12 and under
What: Moneyville Exhibit and Dime-a-Saurus
When: 9 to 11a.m., Saturday Feb. 7
Where: The Health Adventure, 2 S Pack Sq., Asheville, NC 28801
For more information visit www.ashevillesavingsbank.com or www.dimeasaurus.com
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 13 offices with 180 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. It is the oldest, locally managed, independent financial institution in Buncombe County. On December 31st, 2008, the bank had assets of $705 million.
Asheville Savings Bank Promotes Vikki Bailey to Market Executive
Contact: Alicia Hammonds, Publicis
317-639-5135, alicia.hammonds@publicis-usa.com
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (October 20, 2008)—Asheville Savings Bank (ASB) is proud to announce the promotion of Vikki Bailey to fill the newly created market executive position at the Hendersonville branch location. Bailey has served in numerous executive roles and brings more than 30 years of experience at ASB to her new position.
As market executive, Bailey will be responsible for market growth and development in all Henderson County branches and all office regulations and procedures. She will also be ASB’s representative in various community business and civic organizations. With Bailey’s extensive experience in customer service and management, she will be the main contact for community business development.
“Over the years Vikki has had great success in every position she was charged. We are confident her skills and superior customer service will continue the bank’s growth and be a huge asset to the Hendersonville location,” said John Dietrich, Executive Vice President and Director of MarketPlace Banking and Marketing for ASB.
Originally from Arden, Bailey currently lives in Mills River with her husband.
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 13 offices with 180 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. It is the oldest, locally managed, independent financial institution in Buncombe County. On August 30th, 2008, the bank had assets of $677 million.
Asheville Savings Bank Launches Stability Themed Advertising Campaign
Contact: Alicia Hammonds, Publicis
317-639-5135, alicia.hammonds@publicis-usa.com
ASHEVILLE, N.C.(October 14, 2008)—In the midst of a global financial crisis, many consumers and business owners are left with concerns about the safety of their money and the ability to acquire future loans. With 13 banks failing since May, according to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), Asheville Savings Bank (ASB) is taking steps to ease the minds of area clients with a declaration of stability themed advertising campaign.
The campaign launched Oct. 13 and includes radio, print, and television spots with a clear message that ASB is secure and safe with the capital to continue its responsible and fair lending practices. The campaign offers information on the bank’s initiatives to give a safe place for customer deposits, such as the increase of FDIC coverage to $250,000 and providing Certificate of Deposit Account Registry Service (CDARS) which protects CDs up to $50 million with FDIC insurance.
“ASB has a 73-year history of making sound financial decisions and providing a secure place for people to bank. The purpose of this campaign is to inform the community that ASB is still dedicated to the same goals and high standards,” Suzanne DeFerie, ASB President and CEO, said.
For more information on ASB please visit www.ashevillesavingsbank.com.
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 13 offices with 180 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. It is the oldest, locally managed, independent financial institution in Buncombe County. On August 30th, 2008, the bank had assets of $677 million.
Jarrod Perkins Joins Asheville Savings Bank as MarketPlace Manager
Contact: Alicia Hammonds, Publicis
317-639-5135, alicia.hammonds@publicis-usa.com
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (September 16, 2008)— Jarrod Perkins has been announced as the new MarketPlace Manager for Asheville Savings Bank (ASB) downtown location on Church Street. In his new position, Perkins will serve as the community and customer liaison.
Perkins has over eight years of experience in the banking industry as a loan officer, assistant manager, personal banker, teller and bank manger. His skills in the financial industry are an asset to ASB.
As a MarketPlace Manager, Perkins will be responsible for counseling new and existing customers to find the perfect product or account. Perkins will take an active role in cultivating customer relationships and overseeing the branch’s policies and procedures.
“Asheville Savings Bank is looking forward to the continued success and additional growth that Jarrod will bring to the downtown branch,” said John Dietrich, Executive Vice President and Director of MarketPlace Banking and Marketing for ASB. “We are confident that Perkins’ background has sufficiently prepared him to take on the role of MarketPlace manager.”
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 13 offices with 180 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. It is the oldest, locally managed, independent financial institution in Buncombe County. On August 30th, 2008, the bank had assets of $677 million.
Asheville Savings Bank Welcomes Melissa Phelan as Marketing Manager
Contact: Alicia Hammonds, Publicis
317-639-5135, alicia.hammonds@publicis-usa.com
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (September 16, 2008)—Asheville Savings Bank (ASB) welcomes Melissa Phelan as Marketing Manager. Phelan brings with her a 12-year career in the banking and finance industries, working through several positions and earning promotions in her career.
As a marketing manager, Phelan will be responsible for seeking new ways to maximize sales opportunities, enhancing and designing innovative ways to meet customer expectations, and managing the overall execution of banking marketing tasks.
As a previous manager of personal and business banking, Phelan’s experience and industry knowledge serve to expand the expertise of ASB.
As a North Carolina resident, Phelan has volunteered with several community focused organizations such as the American Red Cross, the YMCA of Western North Carolina and Mission St. Josephs Healthcare Foundation. Phelan has also worked with the Greater Asheville Chamber of Commerce, which continues the efforts of ASB to participate in community awareness.
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 13 offices with 180 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. It is the oldest, locally managed, independent financial institution in Buncombe County. On August 30th, 2008, the bank had assets of $677 million.
Asheville Savings Bank Plants Seeds for Growth in the Community
Contact: Claire Chappell, Publicis
317-644-8101, claire.chappell@publicis-usa.com
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (July 7, 2008) - In an effort last weekend to increase environmental awareness, Asheville Savings Bank (ASB) distributed flyers with seed paper to fans at the Tourists games, Asheville’s minor league baseball team. The flyer contained special offers for new customers including a $50 refund for opening “The Best Checking” account and a $250 discount on closing costs for a mortgage.
ASB has been at the forefront of community leadership in Asheville. Their concern for local assistance ranges from children services to healthy environmental awareness. The plantable seed paper will give an eco-friendly boost to the community and provide Asheville residents with the means to play their part in the “green” movement.
“We’ve always put ourselves out there to be a leader in our community,” said John Dietrich, senior Executive Vice President and Director of MarketPlace Banking and Marketing for ASB. “Hopefully the people of Asheville will grow to recognize that and become more apt to making healthy changes — whether it’s toward the environment or for their financial lifestyles.”
If you missed out and want to join in on planting seeds across Asheville, ASB representatives will also be passing out the flyers at the North Carolina Apple Festival during Labor Day weekend.
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 13 offices with 165 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. Asheville Savings is an independent and locally managed bank that is committed to treating each customer with a high level of superior customer service. On April 30, 2007, the bank had assets of $620 million.
Asheville Savings Bank Lights Up the Night at McCormick Field
Contact: Claire Chappell, Publicis
317-644-8101, claire.chappell@publicis-usa.com
Asheville, N.C. (July 1, 2008)—Asheville Savings Bank (ASB) recently partnered with the city of Asheville’s minor league baseball team, the Tourists. This partnership brings together two high-profile community organizations that have an invested interest in the community. On Friday, July 4 ASB will co-sponsor the fireworks show at McCormick Field, home of the Tourists, and will exclusively sponsor another fireworks show on Saturday, July 5.
ASB has been recognized for its community involvement with groups such as the YMCA of Western North Carolina, Asheville Red Cross, United Way of Asheville and the Y.W.C.A.
“We’re thrilled to partner with such a high caliber athletic team,” said John Dietrich, Executive Vice President and Director of MarketPlace Banking and Marketing for ASB. “The Asheville Tourists share our passion and commitment to the community, and joining them in the holiday celebration is something our organization is really looking forward to.”
The Asheville Tourists, field team for the Colorado Rockies, was acquired by Palace Sports & Entertainment in June of 2005. Since then, the Tourists have started groups such as the Kid’s Club and Baseball Buddies to provide fans with opportunities to get to know and learn from positive role models.
“Due to Ted E. Tourist, from whom the team was named after, and his great passion for the community, we offer sponsorship opportunities in order to maintain our leadership role as a service provider within the Asheville area,” said Larry Hawkins, General Manager for the Asheville Tourists. “The fireworks displays are only a smaller portion of what this partnership will provide for Asheville.”
For information or to purchase tickets to the game, call (828) 258-0428 or visit www.theashevilletourists.com. For more information about ASB and its long-standing history in the Asheville community, visit www.ashevillesavingsbank.com.
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 13 offices with 165 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. It is the oldest, locally managed, independent financial institution in Buncombe County. On April 30, 2007, the bank had assets of $620 million.
Asheville Savings Bank Promotes Darlene Beach to Customer Service Manager at Black Mountain Marketplace
Contact: Claire Chappell. Publicis
317-639-5135, claire.chappell@publicis-usa.com
BLACK MOUNTAIN, N.C. (June 2, 2008) Darlene Beach has been promoted by Asheville Savings Bank to customer service manager (CSM). She joined the bank in 2003, and currently works at the Black Mountain office.
As a veteran CSM, Beach handles work in consumer lending, deposit accounts, service recovery, and assists in office operations. With ten years of experience under her belt, she is highly qualified for such a position.
With her vast knowledge of the industry, she is an integral part of the operations at Asheville Savings Bank.
A native of North Carolina, Beach says her greatest accomplishment is raising her two sons. She has been married for 30 years, and currently resides in Old Fort. She was a co-chair of the Alzheimer’s Walk, as well as a volunteer for the United Way Day of Caring.
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 12 offices with 165 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. It is the oldest, locally managed, independent financial institution in Buncombe County. On April 30, 2007, the bank had assets of $620 million.
Asheville Savings Bank Adds Executive Management to Better Serve the Greater Asheville Community
Contact: Jen Whaley, Publicis
317-644-8112, jennifer.whaley@publicis-usa.com
Community banking values meet tenured experience
ASHEVILLE, NC. (May 6, 2008) Asheville Savings Bank names four new executives that will enable the company to better serve the greater Asheville area by providing advancements in the areas of leadership, lending, market place banking, small business banking and technology.
The new executives include:
Richard Duff, executive vice president and chief lending officer
Duff came to Asheville Savings Bank from Dadeland Bank where he served as senior vice president and senior lending officer. He has more than 35 years of commercial lending and loans experience.
Fred A. Martin, senior vice president and chief information officer
Martin previously served as a technical consultant specializing in the financial industry at Wachovia and other financial institutions. He has 15 years of experience as a technical consultant.
John Dietrich, senior vice president and marketing director
Dietrich previously served as the Senior Vice President and Marketing Director for First Indiana Bank in Indianapolis. He has 17 years of financial marketing experience.
“I am thrilled to welcome Richard, Fred and John to our team here at Asheville Savings Bank,” said Suzanne DeFerie, president and CEO of Asheville Savings Bank. “Each person brings years of experience and the unique dedication to support and build successful communities.”
About Asheville Savings Bank
The first branch of Asheville Federal was opened in May of 1960. A merger occurred in the 1980’s with McDowell Savings and Loan Association in Marion which is now their Marion office. The banks name officially changed to the present Asheville Savings Bank in 1993. Asheville Savings is an independent and locally managed bank that is committed to treating each customer with a high level of superior customer service. Asheville Savings Bank has 13 branches and services the Asheville community and neighboring cities.
North Carolina Bank Hires Indianapolis-Based Publicis and Optimedia as Agency of Record
Contact: Joshua Hall, Publicis
317-644-8116, Joshua.hall@publicis-usa.com
Asheville Savings Bank new business win marks string of new clients for one of the city’s largest advertising, public relations and media buying firms
INDIANAPOLIS (February 18, 2008) Asheville Savings Bank of North Carolina has chosen the Indianapolis offices of Publicis and Optimedia as its full-service advertising agency of record. Together, Publicis and Optimedia will provide strategic, research-based solutions for advertising, creative, public relations, and media planning and buying.
In recent months, Publicis and Optimedia have won new business with the Indiana Pacers, Indiana Fever, Indiana University Kelley School of Business at Indianapolis, Reston, Va.-based national consulting firm O'Meara, Ferguson, Whelan and Conway (dba. RSI Catholic Services), and Symphony Bank. The agency also announced that it will continue to represent the former First Indiana Bank, which is now M&I Bank.
John Dietrich, the former director of marketing for First Indiana Bank, informed Publicis and Optimedia that he wanted to hire the agency to assist him with his new role as senior vice president and marketing director for Asheville Savings Bank shortly after accepting the position. He cited the “big agency” resources and nimble, entrepreneurial spirit as keys to what he looks for in an agency.
“I move fast and I need an agency that can keep up,” Dietrich said. “Publicis and Optimedia have the speed to take advantage of can’t-miss opportunities, but more importantly, they are strategic thinkers who deliver results.”
Jay Schemanske, director of Optimedia, said his agency has the tools and proprietary research needed to maximize media planning and buying in any city, regardless of geography.
“We couldn’t be happier to be working with Asheville Savings Bank and John Dietrich,” Schemanske said. “Asheville is a competitive banking market and we have the ability to truly differentiate Asheville Savings Bank, not only through excellent creative and public relations, but through media planning that extends the effectiveness of campaigns well beyond the actual budgets.”
Publicis and Optimedia will launch their first campaign for Asheville Savings Bank with advertising and promotions for “The Best Checking,” a checking account product that offers free ATM transactions, no minimum balance, and a 5% APY interest rate.
About Asheville Savings Bank
The first branch of Asheville Federal was opened in May of 1960. A merger occurred in the 1980’s with McDowell Savings and Loan Association in Marion which is now their Marion office. The banks name officially changed to the present Asheville Savings Bank in 1993. Asheville Savings is an independent and locally managed bank that is committed to treating each customer with a high level of superior customer service. Asheville Savings Bank has 13 branches and services the Asheville community and neighboring cities.
About Publicis
As part of Publicis Groupe, one of the world's largest advertising and media services companies, Publicis Indianapolis provides a wide range of corporate communication and media services, including creative advertising, media and campaign planning, marketing, and public relations.
Suzanne DeFerie Selected As President of Asheville Savings Bank
DeFerie Becomes the First Female Bank President of an Asheville-based bank
ASHEVILLE, NC (February 28, 2008) Asheville Savings Bank has promoted Suzanne S. DeFerie from her position as executive vice president and chief financial officer to president and chief executive officer. DeFerie will make history as first female bank president of an Asheville-based bank.
DeFerie will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of Asheville Savings Bank. DeFerie will be an integral leader in the development and expansion of the bank’s team and overall business plan.
"The Board is excited to have chosen Suzanne DeFerie as president and chief executive officer of Asheville Savings Bank," said John Cross, chairman of the bank’s board of directors. "Suzanne has been with Asheville Savings Bank for more than 15 years, and we are confident she will only build on our successes with additional growth and a continued passion to bring more products and services to our customers."
DeFerie has held numerous executive and management-level positions within Asheville Savings Bank and the international accounting and consulting firm, Deloitte & Touche. She is a native of North Carolina and is extremely passionate about the community she serves.
“I am very proud to have been associated with Asheville Savings Bank for many years,” said DeFerie. “I am invested in this organization and in the people who make it a success. I am eager to expand the bank and our offerings to assist our customers with their economic growth and prosperity.”
DeFerie is involved with the United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County, Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity, American Red Cross and was a nominee in 2007 for the YWCA Women of Influence Award and a 2007 Diamond Award winner for the Western Carolina Business Journal. She has also served as president of the Asheville Breakfast Rotary. DeFerie graduated from Appalachian State University.
About Asheville Savings Bank
The first branch of Asheville Federal was opened in May of 1960. A merger occurred in the 1980’s with McDowell Savings and Loan Association in Marion which is now their Marion office. The banks name officially changed to the present Asheville Savings Bank in 1993. Asheville Savings is an independent and locally managed bank that is committed to treating each customer with a high level of superior customer service. Asheville Savings Bank has 13 branches and services the Asheville community and neighboring cities.
Amy Marshall Joins Asheville Savings Bank as Market Place Manager, Assistant Vice President
Contact: Jen Whaley, Publicis
317-644-8112, jennifer.whaley@publicis-usa.com
FLETCHER, N.C. (February 22, 2007) Amy Marshall has joined Asheville Savings Bank as market place manager, assistant vice president at the new Fletcher office, which opened for business on February 6.
Marshall is responsible for the cultivation of client relationships at the Fletcher office as well as the acquisition of new business accounts and small business loans. She also handles customer questions and strives to offer the best solutions to customers needs.
“Asheville Savings Bank is expanding and our customers will benefit through new leadership, more products and convenient services,” said Marshall. “I am extremely excited to join local charity organizations and to build relationships with local community members.”
Marshall has 15 years of experience in management, sales and customer service. She has held management positions for Nationwide Security’s Mortgage and Total Mortgage Solutions.
About Asheville Savings Bank
Asheville Savings Bank, chartered in 1936, has 12 offices with 165 employees in the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, Madison and Transylvania in western North Carolina. It is the oldest, locally managed, independent financial institution in Buncombe County. On April 30, 2007, the bank had assets of $620 million.
