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Forward Bank Announces Three New Leadership Hires

Forward is excited to welcome three dynamic leaders — Jeri Koester, Brent Arndt, and Butch Wiegel — who bring a shared passion for innovation, service, and community. Each of these individuals has built a reputation for excellence in their respective fields and now joins Forward to help shape the future of our organization. Their collective experience and leadership will strengthen our ability to deliver exceptional service, drive strategic growth, and continue building what’s next for our customers and communities.

Jeri Koester has joined Forward as Chief Information and Technology Officer. A seasoned technology executive, Koester brings deep expertise in digital transformation, cybersecurity, and enterprise IT strategy. She will lead Forward’s Cybersecurity, Data, Digital, IT, and Project Management teams, helping the organization remain secure, scalable, and customer-focused.

Brent Arndt has been named Vice President / Retail Director. With more than 18 years in the banking industry, Arndt will oversee the Retail, Cash Management, Non-Profit Banking, and Private Banking teams. His leadership will focus on mentoring staff and enhancing the customer experience across Forward’s retail footprint.

Butch Wiegel joins Forward Insurance as Vice President / Director of Large Commercial Insurance. With 15 years of experience in commercial insurance, Wiegel will support business clients across Northern and Central Wisconsin with tailored strategies and trusted guidance.

“The best leaders don’t just join organizations, they join movements,” said Dave Clark, President of Forward. “Jeri, Brent, and Butch each bring a passion for people, innovation, and community. Their leadership will help us build what’s next for our customers and the communities we serve.”

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Premier Community Bank Announces the Retirement of Kim Nero

Kim Nero

Premier Community Bank is pleased to announce the upcoming retirement of Kim Nero, Assistant Branch Manager of the Tigerton branch. Kim has dedicated an outstanding 27 years to Premier Community Bank and an impressive 48 years to the banking industry.

To celebrate Kim’s retirement, community members are invited to stop by the Tigerton Branch on Friday, November 7, to enjoy snacks and treats and congratulate Kim on her many years of service.

Kim’s career with Premier Community Bank began in October 1998 when the bank – then Marion State Bank – expanded to Tigerton with a new branch located inside a gas station, a unique venture that also introduced the first ATM to the community. Over the years, Kim served as a Customer Service Representative, Personal Banker, and most recently Assistant Branch Manager, always known for her friendly service and genuine care for customers.

“I am honored to have been one of the original employees of this newly opened office in 1998, and 27 years later, I leave it with pride – proud of Premier Community Bank, proud of this little office, and proud to have met and helped so many customers,” Kim shared.

“Kim has been an integral part of our Tigerton branch since the very beginning,” said Tom Pamperin, President and CEO of Premier Community Bank. “Her knowledge, kindness, and dedication to her customers and community have made a lasting impact. We are truly grateful for her years of service and wish her the very best in retirement.”

Premier Community Bank extends heartfelt gratitude to Kim for her years of service and commitment to the Tigerton community. We wish her all the best in this exciting new chapter.

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PremierBank Pledges Support for BASE Fort Atkinson Playground With Five-Year Commitment to Capital Campaign

PremierBank is pleased to support Phase One of the Fort Atkinson Badgerland After School Enrichment Program’s (BASE) Future Home Capital Campaign with a $100,000 pledge over five years. This commitment funded the new PremierBank Playground, now open at BASE’s new location in Fort Atkinson. Final touches were completed in late September, and the playground officially opened to children with a ribbon-cutting celebration on October 1.

“Dedicated play space is especially valuable when school is out, giving kids the opportunity to stay active,” said Alicia Norris, Executive Director of BASE Fort Atkinson. “This new, state-of-the-art playground provides a safe and engaging place to learn, play, and grow. We are deeply grateful to PremierBank for their generous support in making this playground possible.”

In March 2025, BASE Fort Atkinson officially kicked off their Future Home Community Center project at 1233 Janesville Avenue in Fort Atkinson, WI, after purchasing the property earlier this year. The new, standalone facility allows the organization to expand and serve our community, providing space for early childhood education, dedicated programming for youth, a teen center, a community gym, a commercial kitchen, and an outdoor playground.

“PremierBank is honored to partner with BASE on their Future Home Capital Campaign,” said Russ Turk, President and CEO of PremierBank. “The new PremierBank Playground represents the first step in a larger vision to provide children and families with spaces that encourage growth, learning, and connection. Supporting projects like this is at the heart of our mission to strengthen the communities we serve.”

Through its support of BASE’s Future Home Capital Campaign, PremierBank seeks to support the organization’s ability to meet the growing demand for childcare in our community. For many working parents, childcare represents one of their most significant household expenses, and having access to reliable, high-quality care is essential for family stability and success. Beyond addressing this critical need, the vision for the new BASE facility extends even further by serving as a comprehensive community hub for growth, learning, and engagement. By providing space for early childhood education, youth programming, and family enrichment, the facility will not only benefit the children and families it serves directly but also enhance the quality of life for the entire community.

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Matt Longmeyer Promoted to Chief Information Officer at First Bank

Matt Longmeyer

Tim McFarlane, President at Bank First, is pleased to announce the promotion of Matt Longmeyer to Chief Information Officer. Matt joined the Bank in 2013 as an Information Technology Intern and quickly demonstrated his technical skill and leadership ability. After becoming a full-time Information Technology Specialist in 2014, he advanced through several roles, most recently Senior Vice President – Technology Director. In recent years, Matt has played a key role in shaping Bank First’s technology strategy, expanding team capabilities, and strengthening its product and project management functions. In his new role, Matt will continue to lead all facets of Information Technology, Business Systems, Project Management, Digital Transformation, and Cybersecurity.

“Matt’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping our technology strategy to enhance how we serve both customers and employees,” said McFarlane. “His strategic vision, collaborative approach, and focus on strong vendor partnerships have played a key role in aligning our systems with operational goals and driving continuous improvement across the bank.”

Matt holds a Bachelor of Business Administration, a Master of Business Administration, and a Master of Science in Cybersecurity, all from UW-Whitewater. He is also a graduate of the Graduate School of Banking at UW–Madison, where he earned a Certificate of Executive Leadership. Beyond his role at Bank First, Matt serves on the Manitowoc Public School District Foundation Board.

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National Bank of Commerce Partners with UW–Superior on a New Baseball and Softball Facility

National Bank of Commerce (NBC), the area’s largest locally owned, full-service community bank, is proud to announce its partnership with the University of Wisconsin–Superior as the naming rights sponsor for the university’s new baseball and softball facility. The venue will be named National Bank of Commerce Park, and through this partnership, NBC becomes the official partner of Yellowjacket athletics.

The state-of-the-art facility will feature both a baseball and softball field, shared spectator seating, and a community-focused fan experience with concessions and gathering areas. The university is working closely with both the State and Universities of Wisconsin to finalize the project timeline, with a targeted completion by the 2027-28 academic year.

“At NBC, giving back to the community where we live and work is at the heart of what we do,” said Brad Roden, CEO of NBC. “Partnering with UW–Superior is a natural fit because we want to see the university thrive and continue to bring young people to our region, which in turn helps Superior grow. National Bank of Commerce Park will be a place where students, families, and the community can come together, and we are proud to help make that vision a reality.”

“This partnership with National Bank of Commerce reflects our shared commitment to creating opportunities and building community,” said Renée Wachter, chancellor of UW–Superior. “National Bank of Commerce Park will provide our student-athletes with first-class facilities while strengthening the connections between campus and community. Together, we’re investing in experiences that inspire pride today and possibilities for tomorrow.”

This partnership builds on NBC’s long history of supporting local education, athletics, and community growth. By partnering with UW-Superior, NBC continues to demonstrate the power of a community bank and its dedication to creating lasting impact in the region.

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One Community Bank Hosts Annual Free Community Event: Badger Tailgate

One Community Bank is proud to serve our clients, support our colleagues and invest in our communities. OCB held its fifth annual Badger Tailgate at its Waunakee location on Saturday, October 4th. There was an excellent turnout of clients, community members, and colleagues.

“We had an awesome time at the Badger Tailgate! It is always great to see everyone come together to cheer for the Badgers and enjoy some great food, entertainment, and family time,” said Chris Zellner, Market President at One Community Bank – Waunakee.

This family friendly event featured free fresh grilled food and free beverages provided by Octopi Brewing. Bucky Badger and the UW-Madison Alumni Band joined the event filled with Badger pride. The first 100 guests received a complimentary Badger shirt from OCB. The game was live streamed on a jumbotron provided by Bishops Bay. Kids enjoyed balloon art and other activities.

Thank you to Bishops Bay, Octopi Brewing, Waunakee Chamber, and Waunakee Remodeling for helping make this event possible.

This event raised funds for the Waunakee Early Childhood Fund and for the Waunakee Student Financial Assistance Program. The Waunakee Early Childhood Fund is dedicated to addressing financial challenges that affect teacher retention and the quality of early childhood education in Waunakee. The Waunakee Student Financial Assistance Program is committed to ensuring that all students can participate in their school communities regardless of their family’s financial situation.

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Community State Bank Strengthens Burlington Market with Award-Winning Lender Bakshis

Barb Bakshis

Community State Bank added one of the area’s most experienced bankers to its team in welcoming longtime Burlington resident Barb Bakshis as its new Senior Vice President |Business Banking. Bakshis brings 35 years of banking experience to Community State Bank. She will be onboard in the Burlington office in late October.

The 2024 Racine County Economic Development Corporation Lender of the Year served as a community banker in Burlington for over 20 years.

“I deal with businesses of all sizes and I can recognize the economic impact those businesses have on their communities,” Bakshis said. “Community State Bank is committed to the communities it serves.”

Bakshis works out of the CSB Burlington office located at 308 Bridge St., just a short drive from her 150-acre farm where she calls home.

“Living and working in the same community certainly has its advantages,” Bakshis said. Bakshis will work closely in the Burlington office with CSB VP | Market President David Schalk and Michael Fohey, CSB VP | Residential Real Estate.

“Barb is well-respected in this community,” said David Schalk, CSB VP| Market President (Burlington).  “This allows us to get an experienced lender who’s been in the community for a long time with relationships established with some of the most reputable local businesses.”

“Barb brings with her years of valuable experience in the Burlington area, where she has built strong relationships and a deep understanding of the local business landscape,” said Robert Pieroni, EVP | Chief Lending Officer | Market President.

“As we continue to grow and strengthen our presence in the Burlington area, Barb’s expertise and community insight will further enhance our ability to serve local businesses with excellence and care.”

Pieroni is a two-time RCEDC Lender of the Year, honored for two straight years in 2020 and 2021. Community State Bank VP | Market President (Waterford) Jay Cashmore won the award in 2025. With Bakshis’ arrival, a CSB lender has captured the award in four of the last six years. Bakshis serves the community in many ways, in multiple volunteer and leadership roles. She is on the Board of Directors at Experience Burlington, co-chairs the annual Burlington Christmas Parade and is a member of Racine County Leadership Committee. Bakshis is a trustee for the Burlington Catholic School Board of Directors and a trustee at her church, St. Charles Catholic Church in Burlington. Bakshis enjoys time on the farm with her husband Mike. When Barb isn’t banking, she’s relaxing at their Wisconsin cabin, hunting and spending time in her greenhouse.

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Community State Bank Offering Commodity Loan During Government Shutdown: Program Helps Local Farmers in Critical Post-Harvest Season

Facing continued uncertainty of the government shutdown, Community State Bank is offering a helping hand during a time of need. Area farmers unable to access loan assistance through local Farm Service Agency offices can now apply for a commodity loan through Community State Bank. As a fifth-generation farmer, Community State Bank’s Brian Lois can relate to the difficulties facing the local agriculture industry.

“Community State Bank recognizes the importance of farmers having as many tools in their toolbox as possible,” said Lois, CSB Assistant VP | Agriculture Relationship Manager. “We understand the farm economy because we live it everyday.”

A commodity loan can assist farmers at a crucial time as they head into the post-harvest season. Farmers often utilize the loans for pricing and tax planning strategies. When commodity prices are low, farmers store grain and wait for prices to improve in spring or summer. For more information, contact Lois at (262) 878-3763 ext. 1280 or email at blois@csb.bank or CSB Senior VP | Market President (Union Grove) David Moyer at (262) 878-3763 ext. 1205 or
dmoyer@csb.bank.

Note: Individuals or operations considering a CSB Commodity Loan should consult their tax professional to understand how this loan or any related financing may affect their individual tax situation.

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Waukesha State Bank Promotes Aryanah Viar To Bank Manager

Aryanah Viar

Waukesha State Bank, a 14-branch independent community bank in Waukesha County, is pleased to announce the promotion of Aryanah Viar to Bank Manager of its Muskego office, located at S69 W15273 Janesville Road.

“Aryanah has shown outstanding leadership, enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for serving our customers,” stated Heather Pfalz, Waukesha State Bank Senior Vice President – Retail Banking Manager. “Her positive energy and commitment to building strong relationships make her a perfect fit to lead our Muskego team and continue supporting the financial needs of the community.”

Aryanah started her career with Waukesha State Bank in March 2025 as Team Supervisor of the W. Sunset Drive office in Waukesha, bringing with her seven years of customer service experience, including two years in relationship banking. Since joining the bank, she has quickly made an impact by supporting her team, developing strong customer relationships, and demonstrating exceptional motivation and a willingness to learn.

In her new role as Bank Manager of Waukesha State Bank’s Muskego office, Aryanah will oversee all aspects of daily operations, including business development, personnel management, customer service, lending, relationship management and community involvement.

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Capitol Bank Welcomes Theresa (Esa) M. Anzivino as VP General Counsel & Chief Compliance Officer

Esa M. Anzivino

Capitol Bank announced that Theresa (Esa) M. Anzivino has joined the bank as Vice President, General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer. Esa brings over 15 years of legal experience to the Bank with a background in various general litigation matters, including commercial cases, bankruptcy cases, and disputes related to regulatory and statutory compliance.

Anzivino will utilize her extensive skills and experience to ensure Capitol Bank’s continued compliance with federal and state laws and regulations, which, in turn, will help the bank remain a trusted institution for its customers and community partners. Esa will also be the Bank’s first in-house general counsel and serve as a resource in a variety of legal matters.

“Welcoming Esa to the team has been a big strategic step forward for the Bank. We’re looking forward to incorporating her background and skills into the team and continuing to enhance the benefit we can provide to our clients.” said Ami Myrland, President.

Outside of the office, Esa loves spending time with her spouse, Craig, and their daughter, Zoey, and son, Cameron. She enjoys reading, watching true crime documentaries, exploring Madison’s amazing restaurant scene, and discovering new places through travel.

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608-441-1200

4721 S Biltmore Ln.
Madison, WI 53718

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