Beacon Bank Earns Highest Rating for Safety and Soundness

May 2008:  Bauer Financial, Inc. of Coral Gables, FL, the nation's leading independent bank rating and research firm, is proud to announce that Beacon Bank, Shorewood, MN has achieved its highest 5-Star rating.  The 5-Star rating is based on the overall financial picture of the bank and indicates that Beacon Bank is one of the strongest banks in the nation.

"The times are changing and fewer banks are qualifying for this top rating, but our rigorous standards remain," boasts Karen L. Dorway, president of Bauer Financial.  "You should be proud to know your local bank, Beacon Bank, can claim this highest honor and be confident to call it your bank."

Bauer Financial, Inc., the nation's leading independent bank rating and research firm, has been reporting on and analyzing the performance of U.S. banks and credit unions since 1983.  No institution pays for its rating, nor can they elude it.  Consumers may obtain star-ratings by visiting www.bauerfinancial.com.