DARIEN, IL – March 17, 2010 - Citizens Financial Bank is proud to announce the winner of the “If I Were President” Essay Contest for students in the Darien / Downers Grove area.

There were 175 entrants in the contest and the winner was:

• Luke Grischow -- Grade 7-8 Group -- Lakeview Junior High

Luke’s prize included a $100 savings bond and a $30 book store gift card.

Paul Windsor, Principal, Lakeview Junior High School, said, “I was excited when I heard that Citizens Financial Bank planned to continue the essay contest again this year. Companies that support local schools and their programs in our communities should be applauded. When it comes to quality public education and programs for young people, private support and involvement make a big difference. When local businesses support our schools, they serve as a link between schools and the community.”

Corrine Ganiec , Darien Banking Center Manager said, “Citizens has been an active member of the Darien/Downers Grove communities.” She adds, “Our If I Were President contest is just one example of our commitment to the schools and students in Darien and Downers Grove. We felt that every one of the essays we read was worthy of praise.”

William Jochum, Vice President and Regional Sales Manager, said, “All of our Banking Centers are encouraged to actively participate and support community activities.” He continued, “Citizens strongly believes that the best way to serve the needs of the communities where we have branches is to have our staff contribute their support and time to those educational and business organizations that have common goals. That exemplifies what we mean by Personal, personal and Personal, business banking”

Citizens Financial Bank, a $1.1 billion dollar independent bank, serves the financial needs of individuals, families and businesses through its network of 23 Banking Centers located throughout Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana. Citizens Financial Bank was founded in 1934 and is headquartered in Munster, Indiana. www.mybankcitizens.com