Archive for month: August, 2026

Citizens State Bank of Loyal Appoints Joshua Burgess as President and CEO

Joshua Burgess

In accordance with Citizens State Bank of Loyal’s leadership succession plan, the Bank’s Board of Directors has appointed Joshua Burgess to serve as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Bank. This appointment is effective immediately, following the unexpected passing of former President, Travis Holt on July 22, 2026.

Burgess brings more than 20 years of banking and executive leadership experience to this new role. Previously he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer for CSB Loyal, where he served within the Bank’s leadership team to guide strategic initiatives, support the Bank’s growth, and ensure a seamless transition of leadership.

A native of the Neillsville-Marshfield area, Burgess has served in leadership roles within both national banks as well as agriculturally focused community banks. His experiences include employment with Associated Bank, Wells Fargo, United Prairie Bank and recently serving as Chief Banking Officer at Commerce Bank in Southern Minnesota. His extensive experience and strong ties to the communities served by Citizens State Bank of Loyal have positioned him well to lead the organization into its next chapter. Joshua had a deliberate goal upon joining Citizens State Bank of Loyal and returning to Wisconsin a year ago: to come home to the greater Clark and Wood County area and work alongside Travis Holt in anticipation of his upcoming retirement.

“I am honored to serve as President and CEO of Citizens State Bank of Loyal,” said Burgess. “Having grown up in this area, I understand the importance of a strong community bank and the role it plays in helping families, businesses, and our local communities succeed. We have an outstanding team, a strong financial foundation, and a clear vision for the future. I look forward to building on that success while continuing to put our customers, shareholders, and communities first.”

The Board of Directors also recognizes the dedicated leadership team and employees who continue to serve customers every day. Citizens State Bank remains a well-capitalized institution with strong liquidity, sustained profitability, and a long history of prudent financial management. These strengths ensure the Bank remains well-positioned to support the community with confidence for years to come.

For 24 years Travis served the Bank with exceptional vision and integrity. Travis will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to his family, his profession, and the people he served. As a trusted banker, he devoted his career to helping individuals, families, and agricultural businesses achieve their financial goals. His steady guidance, genuine care for others, and dedication to his community, earned the respect and friendship of many, leaving a lasting legacy that will be remembered for years to come.

Alan Billings, formerly serving as Lead Director, now serves as Chairman of the Board. Said Billings,

“Travis’s untimely death called on the Board to implement the Bank’s leadership succession plan which Travis and the Board had previously approved. The Board has utmost confidence in Joshua Burgess, President and CEO. Joshua’s vision and banking acumen will propel Citizens State Bank of Loyal securely into the future to continue to serve the Bank’s customers and communities as in the past.”

At the direction of Joshua Burgess, the Bank’s mission remains unchanged:

“To help our customers and local communities achieve financial success through our customer-oriented service, diverse financial products, and professional advice while creating superior shareholder returns and exceptional employee career opportunities.”

CSB Loyal is a $300 million dollar independently owned community financial institution, serving communities and rural areas in Central Wisconsin. Founded in 1909, CSB Loyal has been financing the Ag industry for over 115 years. With office locations in Loyal, Granton, Neillsville, Spencer and Marshfield, we are proud to be Central Wisconsin’s community owned, community-minded bank.

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McMahon Joins First State Bank as Vice President Business Banker

Lucas McMahon

First State Bank is proud to welcome Lucas McMahon as Vice President, Business Banker. In this position, McMahon will be responsible for cultivating new business relationships and supporting existing clients with customized financing and banking solutions designed to help businesses grow and succeed.

McMahon brings extensive experience in commercial and agricultural banking, having served as Vice President of Commercial and Agricultural Lending and previously as a Credit Analyst. His background provides a strong blend of lending expertise and financial analysis, enabling him to deliver strategic solutions to meet the unique needs of business customers.

“Lucas brings a strong combination of lending knowledge, leadership experience, and a genuine passion for helping businesses succeed,” said Jason Wery, EVP, Chief Banking Officer at First State Bank. “His knowledge of commercial and agricultural banking, coupled with his analytical background, positions him to help our customers identify opportunities and achieve their long-term goals.”

Lucas currently resides in Pulaski with his wife, Sirena, and their two children, Lincoln and Madelyn. He enjoys snowmobiling, side-by-side riding, jet skiing, and golf.

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Beth Kmiec Promoted to Senior Vice President – Director of Wealth and Fiduciary Services at First Business Bank

Elizabeth “Beth” Kmiec, JD

First Business Bank announces the promotion of Elizabeth “Beth” Kmiec, JD, to Senior Vice President – Director of Wealth and Fiduciary Services within its Private Wealth team.

Beth is a seasoned executive and a distinguished leader in the trust and estate planning industry.

With close to 20 years of experience, Beth has demonstrated a consistent track record of driving business growth and excelling in client service. Her expertise encompasses Trust Administration, both personal and corporate, Asset Management, Estate Planning, and Investments. At ClearPoint Federal Bank & Trust, she served as Chief Fiduciary Officer and Executive Vice President, contributing significantly to the company’s success. Prior to that, Beth honed her skills at J.P. Morgan, where her roles included Senior Trust Officer and Vice President, showcasing her ability to manage complex client needs with finesse and professionalism.

Beth holds a law degree with a focus on Tax Law/Estate Planning from Loyola University Chicago School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Psychology from the University of Notre Dame. She also shares her expertise as an adjunct professor at the University of Wisconsin Law School. Her commitment to community service is evident through her volunteer work, notably as a Board Member for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Dane County.

First Business Bank’s Private Wealth team helps business leaders, investors, and families protect the legacy of their hard-earned wealth. Over the past two decades, the team has expanded to include highly trained, experienced professionals holding designations such as Attorney (JD), Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA®), Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA®), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Private Wealth Advisor (CPWA®), and Master of Business Administration (MBA).

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National Exchange Bank & Trust Opens New ITMs in Fond du Lac and Waupun

National Exchange Bank & Trust is pleased to announce the addition of two new eBankers, also known as Interactive Teller Machines (ITMs), in Fond du Lac and Waupun, which are scheduled for installation in late August and early- to mid-September. These ITMs will replace the existing ATM at the bank’s West Johnson Street location in Fond du Lac and at the west-side ATM Kiosk in Waupun.

The bank will host eBanker events to celebrate and encourage community members to try the upgraded banking technology. Staff will be outside on-site to welcome customers and help with transactions for a smooth, convenient experience. As a thank-you for trying the new eBankers, employees will hand out full-size candy bars and cheese.

Event Dates & Locations

Customers can try the eBanker at the Fond du Lac – W. Johnson Street office from Aug. 25-Sept. 4, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and at the Waupun kiosk, 900 W. Main St., from Sept. 10 – 23, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

National Exchange Bank & Trust’s VP/Operations & Project Management, Desirae Jimenez, had this to say about the opening, “We’re excited to bring eBankers to our Fond du Lac W. Johnson Street and Waupun kiosk locations. As technology continues to shape how people bank, we’re proud to invest in solutions that make banking more convenient while preserving the personal service our customers know and trust. eBankers combine the flexibility of self-service with access to our local team, creating an experience that reflects both where banking is headed and who we are as a community bank.”

National Exchange Bank & Trust is an independent bank with convenient locations throughout Southeastern Wisconsin. For more information, visit the bank’s website at nebat.com.

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Q2 2026 FDIC Numbers Confirm Strength in Wisconsin Banks

Wisconsin banks continue a strong performance midway through 2026 with total assets up 11.99% year over year from June 30, 2025, to June 30, 2026. While concerns about the rising cost of living remain top of mind, total deposits were up 11.52% for the same period (up 3.23% quarter over quarter). Year over year lending strengthened with volumes increasing in commercial and industrial loans, residential real estate loans, and farm loans. The Q2 net interest margin improved (3.68%) from both the prior quarter (3.58%) and the prior year (3.40%). Wisconsin banks continue to be well capitalized with strong liquidity.

Notable indicators include: 

  • Residential real estate loan volume showed impressive quarter over quarter results (17.29%), after a decrease last quarter, and grew year over year (7.24%).
  • Farm lending increased quarter over quarter (17.01%) and year over year (12.96%) as farmers continued working through planting season.
  • Commercial lending increased both quarter over quarter (6.44%) and year over year (14.01%) as commercial customers adjust to global economic changes.
  • Assets in nonaccrual status saw a decrease quarter over quarter (-0.36%) but an increase year over year (19.77%) as borrowers adjust to economic pressures. Despite this annual increase, assets in nonaccrual status remain less than a half-percent of total assets held by Wisconsin banks.

Statement on the release of second-quarter 2026 Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) numbers from Rose Oswald Poels, president and CEO of the Wisconsin Bankers Association:

“Wisconsin banks remain a steady source of liquidity for customers through the mid-point of this year, despite ongoing economic challenges and geopolitical uncertainty. Capital levels at Wisconsin banks are also strong, positioning the industry well to protect against any potential losses. Strong deposit levels are encouraging as these resources allow Wisconsin banks to make loans back out in their communities to consumers and business owners. The industry continues to be a reliable source of trusted financial partnership and a safe place to deposit money.”

 

FDIC-Reported Wisconsin Numbers (Dollar Figures in Thousands)   

  6/30/2026 3/31/2026 QoQ Change 6/30/2025 YoY Change
Net loans and leases $132,498,572 $125,789,875 5.33% $118,240,283 12.06%
Total deposits $144,063,676 $139,554,168 3.23% $129,185,941 11.52%
Commercial and industrial loans $22,333,602 $20,982,991 6.44% $19,589,002 14.01%
Residential real estate loans $40,571,452 $34,589,905 17.29% $37,831,063 7.24%
Farm loans $5,872,319 $5,018,472 17.01% $5,198,432 12.96%
Total assets $182,591,921 $174,807,303 4.45% $163,045,364 11.99%
Assets in nonaccrual status $756,199 $758,922 -0.36% $631,375 19.77%
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North Shore Bank Southside Dining Week Returns

North Shore Bank today announced the return of North Shore Bank Southside Dining Week, a week-long celebration of the vibrant restaurants, rich cultural traditions and locally owned businesses in Milwaukee’s south side neighborhoods. Now in its sixth year, North Shore Bank Southside Dining Week will take place from Sept. 27 – Oct. 3, inviting residents and visitors to explore neighborhoods across the south side while enjoying limited-time menu specials, exclusive dishes and special offers from participating restaurants.

The Southside Dining Week Preview, presented by Mastercard®, will kick off the week-long celebration on Sunday, Sept. 27 from 12 – 4 p.m. at Zócalo Food Truck Park. The event offers food and drinks, family-friendly activities, and live performances. Attendees can RSVP for free.

New this year, the Southside Dining Week Preview will include interactive cooking demos and free samples from participating restaurants while supplies last.

“We’re proud to shine a spotlight on the culinary talent and cultural diversity of Milwaukee’s south side neighborhoods,” said Alfredo Martin, assistant vice president and community engagement manager at North Shore Bank. “Now in our sixth year, we’re adding new restaurants and an even bigger kickoff celebration to introduce the community to these local businesses. North Shore Bank Southside Dining Week shows that food is one of the best ways to bring people together.”

North Shore Bank Southside Dining Week, organized and presented by the community bank, will feature fan-favorites, including Braise Restaurant, Centraal Grand Café & Tappery, doh’p Wood-fired Fare, El Atorón, Guadalajara Restaurante, La Esperanza Restaurant y Taqueria, LuLu Cafe & Bar, Rollup MKE, Steny’s Tavern & Grill Milwaukee, Transfer Pizzeria, Tres Hermanos Restaurant, El Tlaxcalteca Restaurant, Cafe El Sol, Benny’s Pizza, Restaurante El Local, Vientiane Noodle, Guelatgetza Restaurant & Food Truck, Thai Barbque, Carnitas de Rafa Restaurant, La Casa De Alberto and more, with additional restaurants still encouraged to sign up to participate.

Participating neighborhoods include: Silver City, National Park, Mitchell Park, Clarke Square, Walker’s Point, Harbor View, Jones’ Island, Burnham Park, Muskego Way, Historic Mitchell Street, Clock Tower Acres, Layton Park, Forest Home Hills, Lincoln Village, Baran 14-Time Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Top Workplace Winner Forbes Best-In-State Banks 2026 – Seven-Time Champion Newsweek’s America’s Best Regional Banks 2026 – Third-Time Winner Park, Bay View, Fernwood, Jackson Park, Southgate, Polonia, Alverno, Harder’s Oaks, Mount Olive, South Point, Morgandale, Saveland Park, and Tippecanoe.

For a complete list of participating restaurants, menus, and details, visit SouthsideDiningWeek.com

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Mia Acevedo Joins Horicon Bank as Wauwatosa Branch Manager

Mia Acevedo

Horicon Bank is pleased to announce the appointment of Mia Acevedo as branch manager of its Wauwatosa location in The Mayfair Collection.
Acevedo brings extensive banking and leadership experience to the role, along with a strong background in operations, customer service, and relationship management. Most recently, she served as a senior operations associate, where she processed financial transactions, performed
reconciliations to ensure accuracy and compliance, and supported quality control initiatives. She also developed and delivered training programs designed to strengthen team performance and improve operational efficiency.

In previous roles, Acevedo held leadership positions within the banking industry, where she gained extensive experience in team development, regulatory compliance, and customer relationship management. Throughout her career, she has built a reputation for delivering exceptional service, fostering strong customer relationships, and driving both team success and organizational growth.

“Mia’s experience, leadership, and passion for serving customers make her a tremendous addition to our team,” said Fred C. Schwertfeger, president of Horicon Bank. “Her customer focused approach and strong banking background make her an excellent fit for our Wauwatosa branch. We are proud to welcome her to Horicon Bank and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our customers, team members, and the community.”

As branch manager, Acevedo will oversee daily branch operations, support employee development, and continue Horicon Bank’s commitment to providing personalized service and strengthening community relationships in the Wauwatosa area. “As a new member of the Horicon Bank team, I am excited to use my business banking experience to build relationships, support local businesses, and help expand Horicon Bank’s presence in the Milwaukee and Wauwatosa communities,” said Acevedo. “I look forward to connecting with customers and becoming an active part of the community.”

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From the Fields: I Believe in the Future of Agriculture

By Amy Austin

Each summer, Lake Ridge Bank’s Ag Team dedicates countless hours volunteering at county dairy breakfasts, local fairs, meat animal auctions, and many other agriculture-related events. Through these experiences, we have the opportunity to support the next generation of agricultural leaders and the future of farming. As summer comes to a close, it’s worth recognizing the bright future represented by our youth involved in agriculture.

Many of us in agricultural banking grew up on farms, showed livestock at county fairs, or spent time in 4-H and FFA. While there’s often discussion about whether today’s youth work as hard as previous generations, what I continue to see tells a different story. Our youth involved in agriculture are developing the same strong values, work ethic, and sense of responsibility that have long been the foundation of our industry.

Take county dairy breakfasts, for example. While many community members are just arriving, 4-H members have often been hard at work for hours, helping set up, serve food, clean tables, and represent their clubs.

The same is true during fair season. Whether showing livestock or exhibiting projects, our youth invest months of planning, budgeting, preparation, and daily responsibility for just a few moments in the spotlight. Along the way, they gain valuable lessons in financial management, sportsmanship, leadership, and the reality that hard work often leads to rewarding results.

As ag bankers, community members, parents, and volunteers, we should be proud of our youth in agriculture. They are learning how to set goals, overcome challenges, and contribute to something bigger than themselves. No matter where their paths lead, they give me great confidence in the future of agriculture and our rural communities.

Austin is AVP ag and business portfolio specialist with Lake Ridge Bank in Evansville. She also currently serves on the WBA Agricultural Bankers Section Board of Directors.

 

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IncredibleBank Welcomes Erin Jacobson as Middleton Market Manager

Erin Jacobson

IncredibleBank is pleased to announce Erin Jacobson as Market Manager of its Middleton location. With 25 years of banking experience and a career spanning retail banking, business lending, and cash management, Jacobson brings extensive leadership experience to IncredibleBank’s growing presence in the Madison area.

Jacobson began her banking career as a teller and advanced through roles including personal banker, branch manager, multi-branch leader, business lender, and cash management officer. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Madison, she also spent six years working in the banking industry in Santa Monica, California.

Throughout her career, Jacobson has led branches through periods of growth and transition, built service-focused teams, expanded consumer and business relationships, and developed strong partnerships with local businesses and community organizations.

“Erin’s breadth of experience is a tremendous asset to our Middleton team,” said Sergio Nascimento, Market President at IncredibleBank. “She has worked with customers and businesses from nearly every side of banking, and that perspective, combined with her ability to lead strong teams and build meaningful relationships, makes her an ideal person to help grow our presence in the Madison area.”

As Market Manager, Jacobson will lead market strategy, team development, and community engagement for IncredibleBank’s Middleton location. She looks forward to expanding the bank’s presence in the Madison area while supporting a team focused on innovation, collaboration, and exceptional customer service.

“I’m excited to join IncredibleBank and help grow our presence in the Madison area,” said Jacobson. “The opportunity to work with a team that values innovation, collaboration, and strong customer relationships is what drew me to this role. I look forward to getting to know our customers, building new relationships, and becoming even more involved in the community.”

Community involvement has been an important part of Jacobson’s career. She has served on Chamber of Commerce boards, held ambassador roles, and supported several nonprofit organizations throughout her career.

Outside of work, Jacobson enjoys spending time with her husband and their two children, ages 15 and 17. She enjoys being outdoors and boating and can often be found supporting her children at their sporting events.

 

About IncredibleBank™
IncredibleBank, headquartered in Wausau, Wisconsin, is a full-service community bank offering personal banking, business banking, mortgage lending, and cash management solutions. Recognized nationally as an SBA Preferred Lending Partner and one of the top motorcoach lenders, IncredibleBank combines innovative technology with personalized service to deliver an Incredible Customer ExperienceSM. With 17 branch locations across Wisconsin, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and Cape Coral, Florida, we help individuals and businesses achieve financial success. Learn more about our checking accounts, loans, and business services at incrediblebank.com.

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608-441-1200

4721 S Biltmore Ln.
Madison, WI 53718

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