Bloomsburg, PA – Tabitha McCormick, Vice President at First Columbia Bank & Trust Co., completed coursework and graduated with honors from the 2016 PA Bankers Association Advanced School of Banking on July 29.            

Tabitha, a CPA, Certified Fraud Examiner, and Certified Forensic Accountant, joined First Columbia Bank & Trust Co in April 2014 after twelve years in public accounting (ten years with her own practice, Cornerstone Accounting).  She is currently the manager of the e-Banking & Customer Support department.  This department handles online and mobile banking, bill pay, debit cards, remote deposit capture, merchant services, and customer inquiries made by e-mail and telephone. 

The PA Bankers Association Advanced School of Banking is a three-year program designed for professionals looking to continue their educational experience and prepare to lead at senior level positions within their organization. The program consists of college-level coursework and includes lectures, group projects, computer simulations, case studies, peer presentations, independent study and home extension studies.          

The Pennsylvania Bankers Association, located in Harrisburg, is the state’s leading banking trade association representing an expansive and diverse membership. The Association offers extensive continuing education programs, government relations representation on behalf of the industry, and provides numerous products and services for banks and their employees.

 

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August 2, 2016 - CCFNB Bancorp, Inc. Reports Second Quarter 2016 Earnings

Bloomsburg, PA – CCFNB Bancorp, Inc. (OTC Pink: CCFN), parent company of First Columbia Bank & Trust Co., has released  its unaudited financial statements for the second quarter of 2016. 

Net income, as reported under U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, for the six months-ended June 30, 2016 was $3,489,000 compared to $3,407,000 for the same period in 2015.  Earnings per share for the six months-ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 were $1.62 and $1.57, respectively.  The return on average assets and return on average equity were 1.06% and 8.28% for the six months-ended June 30, 2016 as compared to 1.07% and 8.72% for the same period of 2015.

The net interest margin, tax effected, on interest earning assets was 3.32% at June 30, 2016 as compared to 3.37% as of June 30, 2015.

Total assets amounted to $670.0 million at June 30, 2016 as compared to $647.3 at December 31, 2015.  Since the end of 2015, net loans, not held for sale, increased $8.9 million while investment securities decreased $7.4 million.  Over the same time period, loans held for sale decreased $1.8 million.   Total deposits increased $19.7 million while short term borrowings decreased $1.6 million since the end of 2015. 

When compared to December 31, 2015, stockholders’ equity, excluding accumulated other comprehensive income, increased $1.5 million to $84.9 million as of June 30, 2016. The current level of stockholders’ equity equated to a book value per share of $39.75 at June 30, 2016 as compared with $38.66 as of December 31, 2015.  For the six months-ended June 30, 2016 cash dividends of $0.715 per share were paid to stockholders as compared to $.70 for the same 2015 period.  CCFNB Bancorp, Inc. remains well capitalized, with an equity-to assets ratio of 12.7% as of June 30, 2016 and 12.8% at December 31, 2015.

Note: This press release may contain forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Actual results and trends could differ materially from those set forth in such statements due to various factors.  These factors include operating, legal and regulatory risks; changing economic and competitive conditions and other risks and uncertainties.

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Bloomsburg, PA - The 6^th Annual First Columbia Teen Star Musical Competition was held on Sunday, May 22^st at Bloomsburg University. From show tunes to original pieces, this year’s finalists came prepared to take the listener on a musical journey.

Liz Bodenman, a senior from Central Columbia High School and a first time finalist, sang two Broadway tunes to captivate the audience and win the vocalist crown. Seth Barrett, a sophomore at Southern Columbia High School, claimed the instrumental title with the deep, rich tones of his bassoon playing. Bodenman and Barrett each received $1,500 as the top awards. Second place finisher, Kaili Hannon, a Junior from Benton Area High School, earned $750 with her emotional vocal performances, and Central Columbia’s Maiah Farley, a freshman, placed third and won $350 with her powerful, clear vocals. The other eight finalists each received $100.

The audience of more than 800 was also able to participate in the selection process by text messaging their vote for the fourth finalist, Kaili Hannon, to advance to the final round.  This voting format added an element of suspense to an already exciting show and really bolstered crowd enthusiasm.

First Columbia Bank & Trust Co. sponsors Teen Star to support the area’s musically talented youth, and ticket proceeds, totaling $4,750, are being donated to the music departments of the 12 finalists. Lance Diehl, President & CEO explains, “While American Idol may be ending, we’re happy to say that Teen Star is still going strong! This is such a fun event for the finalists and our community.” Diehl added, “Each year these young musicians amaze us with their incredible talent, courage, and poise.” Over the past six years, First Columbia Bank has awarded nearly $30,000 in prize money to finalists and raised another $30,000 from ticket proceeds for the high school music departments at area schools.

Learn more about this annual event on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/firstcolumbiateenstar.

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May 10, 2016 - CCFNB Bancorp, Inc. Reports First Quarter 2016 Earnings

Net income, as reported under U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, for the quarter-ended March 31, 2016 was $1,684,000 compared to $1,684,000 for the same period in 2015.  Earnings per share for the quarter-ended March 31, 2016 and 2015 were $.78.  The return on average assets and return on average equity were 1.03% and 8.01% for the quarter-ended March 31, 2016 as compared to 1.05% and 8.33% for the same period of 2015.

The net interest margin, tax effected, on interest earning assets was 3.32% at March 31, 2016 as compared to 3.39% as of March 31, 2015.

Total assets amounted to $649.0 million at March 31, 2016 as compared to $647.3 at December 31, 2015.  Since the end of 2015, net loans, not held for sale, increased $6.6 million while investment securities decreased $4.2 million.  Over the same time period, loans held for sale decreased $2.4 million.   Total deposits increased $10.8 million while short term borrowings decreased $12.2 million since the end of 2015. 

When compared to December 31, 2015, stockholders’ equity, excluding accumulated other comprehensive income, increased $933 thousand to $84.0 million as of March 31, 2016. The current level of stockholders’ equity equated to a book value per share of $39.12 at March 31, 2016 as compared with $38.66 as of December 31, 2015.  For the quarter-ended March 31, 2016 cash dividends of $0.355 per share were paid to stockholders as compared to $.345 for the same 2015 period.  CCFNB Bancorp, Inc. remains well capitalized, with an equity-to assets ratio of 12.9% as of March 31, 2016 and 12.8% at December 31, 2015.

Note: This press release may contain forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Actual results and trends could differ materially from those set forth in such statements due to various factors.  These factors include operating, legal and regulatory risks; changing economic and competitive conditions and other risks and uncertainties.

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May 4, 2016 - Columbia County's Teen Star Dream Team Has Been Chosen

Bloomsburg, PA – Twelve high school vocalists and instrumentalists have emerged as finalists in the 6^th Annual First Columbia Teen Star Musical Competition. The finalists who are headed to the finale on May 22nd at 2:00 PM at Bloomsburg University’s Haas Center are:

1. Sheila Brassard – Sophomore, Vocalist, Southern Columbia High School
2. Hannah Temple – Junior, Vocalist, Millville Jr/Sr High School
3. Kallie Koch – Freshman, Instrumentalist, Benton Area High School
4. Liz Bodenman – Senior, Vocalist, Central Columbia High School
5. Hannah Ledezma – Junior, Vocalist, Bloomsburg Area High School
6. Seth Barrett – Sophomore, Instrumentalist, Southern Columbia High School
7. Rhys Kauffman – Sophomore, Vocalist, Central Columbia High School
8. Megan Osborne – Junior, Vocalist, Central Columbia High School
9. Stephen Miller – Junior, Instrumentalist, Berwick Area High School
10. Maiah Farley – Freshman, Vocalist, Central Columbia High School
11. Kaili Hannon – Junior, Vocalist, Benton Area High School
12. Gina Abraczinskas – Senior, Vocalist, Central Columbia High School

Teen Star is an American Idol®-like musical competition among high school students across Columbia County. First Columbia Bank & Trust Co. sponsors this award-winning community event to promote the performing arts among the young people of the community and to support the music programs in area schools.

At the final event, 12 talented teens perform for the audience and a panel of judges from the music and entertainment industries. This year, the audience will again have an opportunity to text their vote for one of the finalists. In 2015, the finalist the audience saved won the top Instrumentalist spot.  Maria Valles, Marketing Director, says, “Last year, giving our audience the opportunity to vote was a fun and engaging way to include them in the show, and we look forward to the suspense and excitement it is certain to bring this year.” 

At the finale, two Teen Stars will be chosen – a Teen Star Instrumentalist and a Teen Star Vocalist—and each will win $1,500.  In addition, all ticket sale proceeds are donated to the finalists’ high school music departments.

Lance Diehl, President and CEO of First Columbia Bank, offered, “We are excited to be back with our 6^th year for the Teen Star competition and are encouraged to see how this program has taken hold in our schools and our community. Teen Star has become our Bank’s signature community event.”  Diehl added, “Over the past six years, I can’t even tell you the number of times people from our community have stopped me in the street or called just to say how much they appreciate the Teen Star program and what it offers for our schools and our young people. It is very rewarding, and we are grateful to be able to host such events for the community we serve.”

Over the past six years, several hundred high school musicians have stepped up to audition. Since the show’s debut in 2011, the Bank has awarded $25,000 in prize money and donated more than $25,000 in ticket proceeds to the music programs at local schools. The success of the Teen Star program was also the catalyst for the Bank’s recent $200,000 tax credit donation to fund a Tech Theater Production program at each area school, significantly enhancing their sound and lighting capabilities for concerts, plays and musicals. 

Tickets to the event are $5. Tickets are available at any of First Columbia Bank’s 13 community banking offices or at the door the day of the show.

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April 29, 2016 - First Columbia Bank Helps Keep Seniors Safe

Bloomsburg, PA – CCFNB Bancorp, Inc. (OTC: CCFN), parent company of First Columbia Bank & Trust Co., has released  its unaudited financial statements for the fourth quarter of 2015. 

Net income, as reported under U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, for the year-ended December 31, 2015 was $6,908,000 compared to $6,834,000 for the same period in 2014.  Earnings per share for the year-ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 were $3.20 and $3.15, respectively.  The return on average assets and return on average equity were 1.07% and 8.41% for the year-ended December 31, 2015 as compared to 1.08% and 8.73% for the same period of 2014. The net interest margin, tax effected, on interest earning assets was 3.34% at December 31, 2015 as compared to 3.36% as of December 31, 2014.

Total assets amounted to $647.3 million at December 31, 2015 as compared to $639.1 at December 31, 2014.  Since the end of 2014, investment and restricted securities decreased $1.6 million while net loans, not held for sale, increased $16.7 million.  Over the same time period, loans held for sale increased $308 thousand.   Total deposits increased $6.5 million while short term borrowings decreased $1.2 million since the end of 2014. 

When compared to December 31, 2014, stockholders’ equity, excluding accumulated other comprehensive income, increased $3.2 million to $83.1 million as of December 31, 2015. The current level of stockholders’ equity equated to a book value per share of $38.66 at December 31, 2015 as compared with $37.00 as of December 31, 2014.  For the year-ended December 31, 2015 cash dividends of $1.41 per share were paid to stockholders as compared to $1.375 for the same 2014 period.  CCFNB Bancorp, Inc. remains well capitalized, with an equity-to assets ratio of 12.8% as of December 31, 2015 and 12.5% at December 31, 2014.

Note: This press release may contain forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Actual results and trends could differ materially from those set forth in such statements due to various factors.  These factors include operating, legal and regulatory risks; changing economic and competitive conditions and other risks and uncertainties.

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January 15, 2016 - First Columbia Marks Support for BU Athletic Scholarships

Bloomsburg PA – First Columbia Bank & Trust Co. reaffirmed its commitment to Bloomsburg University with a five-year annual sponsorship agreement, which will benefit athletic scholarships. As the University’s exclusive Gold Plus Sponsor, and in recognition of its long-standing support for the school, First Columbia’s logo has also been added to the gymnasium floor of Nelson Field House.

First Columbia President and BU graduate, Lance Diehl, noted, “While this is a great way to advertise the First Columbia brand, having our logo here means so much more. To us, it is a symbol of our ‘Husky pride.’  Bloomsburg, and our surrounding area, is fortunate to have an institution of higher learning centered here. The University creates local education opportunities for our youth and boosts local commerce, both of which make for a stronger, more vibrant community.”    

Director of Bloomsburg University Sports Information, Athletic Marketing and Promotions, Tom McGuire, added, “We continue to be grateful for engaged business partners like First Columbia who see the long-term value of investing in the University’s students and athletes.” 

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October 27, 2015 - CCFNB Bancorp, Inc. Reports Third Quarter 2015 Earnings

Bloomsburg, PA – CCFNB Bancorp, Inc. (OTC: CCFN), parent company of First Columbia Bank & Trust Co., has released  its unaudited financial statements for the third quarter of 2015. 

Net income, as reported under U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, for the nine months-ended September 30, 2015 was $5,198,000 compared to $4,852,000 for the same period in 2014.  Earnings per share for the nine months-ended September 30, 2015 and 2014 were $2.40 and $2.23, respectively.  The return on average assets and return on average equity were 1.08% and 8.49% for the nine months-ended September 30, 2015 as compared to 1.03% and 8.32% for the same period of 2014.

The net interest margin, tax effected, on interest earning assets was 3.35% at September 30, 2015 as compared to 3.33% as of September 30, 2014.

Total assets amounted to $652.5 million at September 30, 2015 as compared to $639.1 at December 31, 2014.  Since the end of 2014, investment and restricted securities increased $4.1 million while net loans, not held for sale, increased $9.7 million.  Over the same time period, loans held for sale increased $98 thousand.   Total deposits decreased $9.0 million while short term borrowings increased $11.6 million since the end of 2014. 

When compared to December 31, 2014, stockholders’ equity, excluding accumulated other comprehensive income, increased $2.6 million to $82.8 million as of September 30, 2015. The current level of stockholders’ equity equated to a book value per share of $38.36 at September 30, 2015 as compared with $37.00 as of December 31, 2014.  For the nine months-ended September 30, 2015 cash dividends of $1.055 per share were paid to stockholders as compared to $1.03 for the same 2014 period.  CCFNB Bancorp, Inc. remains well capitalized, with an equity-to assets ratio of 12.7% as of September 30, 2015 and 12.5% at December 31, 2014.

Note: This press release may contain forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Actual results and trends could differ materially from those set forth in such statements due to various factors.  These factors include operating, legal and regulatory risks; changing economic and competitive conditions and other risks and uncertainties.

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October 8, 2015 - First Columbia Bank Hosts World Cup Champion, Carli Lloyd

Bloomsburg, PA- First Columbia was honored to host 2015 World Cup winner and Olympic gold medalist, Carli Lloyd on Monday, October 5^th.  Held at Bloomsburg University, the event drew more than 1,500 customers, employees, students, and guests from the community.

First Columbia Bank President and CEO, Lance Diehl, who organized the appearance explained, “We were most fortunate to have secured Carli Lloyd for a visit to our area. She shared her amazing journey from being cut to being the MVP of the World Cup.” Maria Valles, the bank’s Marketing Director, added, “It was a compelling message that we were happy to bring to our community and, in particular, to our young people. We all know how important strong role models are, and Carli is certainly one of them. She reinforced that with focus and a lot of hard work, they can achieve whatever they set out to do.”

Before the start of the event, three lucky youngsters from the audience received a “Golden Ball Ticket.” These Carli Lloyd fans were welcomed to the stage during the presentation where they each received an autographed poster and photo opportunity with the World Cup champion. After Carli’s presentation, she opened the forum up for a question and answer session with the audience. She graciously fielded a dozen or more questions ranging from training techniques to where she sees herself in twenty years.

Although Carli has enjoyed incredible success, her story of how defeat, perseverance, and hard work paid off sent a powerful message that resonated with many in the audience.  In addition to the inspiring message this event offered to young people, one hundred percent of the ticket proceeds, totaling more than $5,000, will be donated to the local high schools’ soccer programs. Unique events like this are just one of many ways First Columbia shows its continued support and commitment to the schools, the students and the community that it serves.
 

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September 14, 2015 - First Columbia Bank Helps Re-Stock Local Diaper Bank 

Bloomsburg, PA - In response to an article in the Press Enterprise recently requesting donations of diapers for the Good Shepherd United Methodist Church’s Bundles of Blessing diaper giveaway, employees dedicated one of their semi-monthly Dress Down Days to this community organization.   Each participating employee had the privilege to enjoy a relaxed casual dress code for the day in exchange for a donation to this worthwhile program.  Employees donated almost $300 in diapers and monetary donations to help restock the shelves in time for the church’s next diaper distribution. 

Since its start two years ago, Bundles of Blessings has given away over 84,000 disposable diapers to local families.  Each month about 5,500 diapers are given away at the monthly distribution.  FCBT employees recognized the importance of helping those families facing financial difficulties get the help and support they need to help with the care of their children.

First Columbia Bank employees regularly dress casual on Fridays in support of numerous charitable organizations throughout our market areas.  They are committed to getting involved in community events that foster stronger relationships and make a difference to the businesses, individuals and communities they serve.

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September 10 - First Columbia Bank Presents World Cup Champion, Carli Lloyd

Bloomsburg, PA – First Columbia announced today they are hosting 2015 World Cup winner and Olympic gold medalist, Carli Lloyd, at an exciting customer event to be held at Bloomsburg University’s Haas Center on Monday, October 5^th.

Carli Lloyd was initially secured by the Millville Community Foundation to speak to students at the Millville Area School earlier this day. Subsequently, First Columbia Bank was fortunate to be able to arrange a second appearance for Carli since she was already planning to be in the area. Lance Diehl, First Columbia Bank President and CEO, who is also a member of the Millville Community Foundation, explained, “We are proud to host Carli’s visit to our area. Her journey from a small town soccer player to the top of the world’s soccer stage has been truly amazing, and we are excited that she will be able to share her inspirational story with our community and our young people in particular.”

Although Carli has enjoyed incredible success, it is her story of how defeat, perseverance, and hard work transformed her into the best female soccer player in the world that will resonate with young athletes, and really with anyone working toward a challenging goal.

Tickets will be available to customers at any branch office of First Columbia Bank from Thursday, September 17^th until Monday, September 28^th, or until tickets have been sold out. As seating is limited, tickets will be limited to two per customer. The cost is $5 each. The Bank plans to donate 100% of the ticket proceeds to the local high schools’ soccer programs as a way of showing its continued support and commitment to the community.

The October 5^th event at Bloomsburg University’s Haas Center will begin promptly at 4:45 p.m., with doors opening at 4:00 p.m. Additional information will be posted on the bank’s website at www.firstcolumbiabank.com.

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August 5, 2015 – New First Columbia Bank Customers Give Boost To Community

Millville, PA – First Columbia Bank today announced a $3,000 donation to the Millville Community following a recent new customer outreach. The Millville Volunteer Fire Department, the Millville Park Commission, and the Little Fishing Creek Area Swimming Pool each received $1,000 to support their respective community organizations.

As the only other bank in Millville closed its doors earlier this year, the Millville branch of First Columbia Bank invited new customers with a special promotion that committed a bank donation to each of the three local organizations for every new customer account opened from the beginning of the year through June.

Over the period, the bank welcomed several hundred new retail and business customers who were in need of a new bank.

Connie Yoder, Vice President and Branch Manager of the Millville office, offered, “We were honored to be able to give back to these important organizations that work so hard to make Millville a desirable and safe place to live. It is our hope that this promotion reinforces among the people who live here that First Columbia remains firmly committed to this community.”

Customer Service Representative and life-long Millville resident, McKayla Johnson, added, “Personally, it has been very rewarding to welcome all these new customers, many of whom I know. And, being able to offer them the kind of local banking experience they need and value is what truly sets us apart from so many other banks.”

Pictured from left to right: Maria Valles, FCBT Marketing Director; Brandi McDonald, President, Little Fishing Creek Area Swimming Pool; McKayla Johnson, FCBT Customer Service Representative; Jon Brown, President, Millville Fire Company; Dr. Jean Johnson, President, Millville Park Commission; Connie Yoder, FCBT Branch Manager.

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August 4, 2015 – CCFNB Bancorp, Inc. Reports Second Quarter 2015 Earnings

Bloomsburg, PA – CCFNB Bancorp, Inc. (OTC: CCFN), parent company of First Columbia Bank & Trust Co., has released  its unaudited financial statements for the second quarter of 2015. 

Net income, as reported under U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, for the six months-ended June 30, 2015 was $3,407,000 compared to $3,212,000 for the same period in 2014.  Earnings per share for the six months-ended June 30, 2015 and 2014 were $1.57 and $1.47, respectively.  The return on average assets and return on average equity were 1.07% and 8.72% for the six months-ended June 30, 2015 as compared to 1.02% and 8.31% for the same period of 2014.

The net interest margin, tax effected, on interest earning assets was 3.37% at June 30, 2015 as compared to 3.36% as of June 30, 2014.

Total assets amounted to $635.5 million at June 30, 2015 as compared to $639.1 at December 31, 2014.  Since the end of 2014, investment and restricted securities decreased $3.8 million while net loans, not held for sale, increased $4.7 million.  Over the same time period, loans held for sale increased $356 thousand.   Total deposits decreased $3.3 million while short term borrowings decreased $2.2 million since the end of 2014.

When compared to December 31, 2014, stockholders’ equity, excluding accumulated other comprehensive income, increased $1.6 million to $81.0 million as of June 30, 2015. The current level of stockholders’ equity equated to a book value per share of $37.75 at June 30, 2015 as compared with $37.00 as of December 31, 2014.  For the six months-ended June 30, 2015 cash dividends of $0.70 per share were paid to stockholders as compared to $0.685 for the same 2014 period.  CCFNB Bancorp, Inc. remains well capitalized, with an equity-to assets ratio of 12.8% as of June 30, 2015 and 12.5% at December 31, 2014.

Note: This press release may contain forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Actual results and trends could differ materially from those set forth in such statements due to various factors.  These factors include operating, legal and regulatory risks; changing economic and competitive conditions and other risks and uncertainties.

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July 11, 2015 - First Columbia Bank & Trust Co. Banker Completes ABA Stonier Graduate School

Bloomsburg, PA – Brandon Ortman, Vice President/Commercial Lending officer of First Columbia Bank & Trust Co. recently graduated from the American Bankers Association Stonier Graduate School of Banking in Philadelphia.

Held at the University of Pennsylvania the week of June 4-11, 2015, this was the school’s 80^th year of excellence in banking education.  Stonier, ABA’s national graduate school of banking is an intensive three-year program for bank executives.  Students are from the United States and international banks of all sizes, as well as state and federal regulatory agencies and other financial services organizations.

Since its inception in 1935, more than 20,000 students have followed a curriculum of more than 45 courses and enjoyed networking opportunities with more than 600 fellow students. Between sessions, students keep up with trends by completing additional extension and online coursework. The program culminates with the Capstone Strategic Project, where students develop comprehensive business projects for their financial institutions.

A 1998 graduate of Bloomsburg University, majoring in Finance and Economics, Brandon began his banking career in 1999 and has held various positions, including branch manager and commercial lender. Brandon serves as Treasurer of the Columbia Child Development Program, sits on the boards of the Columbia Child Development Program and the Columbia County Traveling Library Authority, and volunteers at numerous community events.

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June 4, 2015 - First Columbia Bank Works to Keep Music Alive

Bloomsburg, PA – At the 5^th Annual First Columbia Teen Star Musical Competition that was held on Sunday, May 31^st at Bloomsburg University, First Columbia reaffirmed its commitment to supporting area youth by announcing a $200,000 donation.

In addition to donating $5,500 in ticket sale proceeds from this year’s Teen Star finale, First Columbia Bank & Trust Co. surprised the crowd by announcing it will donate $200,000 to support the music programs at area schools. During the show, under the guise of filling time while the judges deliberated, the Bank’s Executive Vice President & CFO, Jeff Arnold, suggested they give the audience a lesson in Tax Accounting. What intentionally began as a dry, bank-like video ended with President & CEO, Lance Diehl, happily announcing the Bank’s $200,000 planned donation to the schools.

First Columbia Bank is making this donation through the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program, which allows certain businesses subject to PA state tax to direct money, in the form of tax credits, to approved education initiatives. The EITC program requires that initiatives be approved by the PA Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED), and they must offer an innovative new program to students. The Bank’s donation will be used to introduce a newly created Tech Theater Production curriculum and purchase related sound and music equipment.  The funding must also flow through a non-profit organization, and First Columbia engaged the services of Donna Eyerly from The Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce to obtain approval for the program and oversee the distribution of funding. In the months leading up to this announcement, the Bank and Chamber Foundation held several roundtable discussions with school administrators and music teachers to identify the most meaningful and impactful way to utilize such funding. The Bank also tapped the music expertise and services of Paul Smith, a music professor and manager of Technical Services at Susquehanna University. Paul has been working with the schools over the past six months to assess their equipment needs and build a new Tech Theater Production curriculum.  To date, one half of the $200,000 donation has been distributed to the schools. The remaining $100,000 is expected to become available at the end of July. The schools that will be receiving a $28,000 portion of the donation include Benton High School, Berwick High School, Bloomsburg High School, Central Columbia High School, Millville High School, and Southern Columbia High School. While the Columbia Montour Area Vocational Technical School does not have a music program, the Bank was happy, under the guidelines of the approved program, to direct $10,000 from this funding to the school’s broadcast studio. Lance Diehl, President & CEO commented, “Each year I am amazed by the talent I see not only at Teen Star, but also at the high school concerts, plays and musicals. These are all such important creative outlets for our young people, and it is our hope that this new equipment and curriculum will further enhance their experiences and support their performances.”

First Columbia Bank has been participating in the state’s EITC program for over a decade as a way to redirect a portion of its tax bill to locally based education initiatives. The tax credit amount is equal to 90 percent of the contribution made in two consecutive tax years. The amount of EITC funding the Bank applies for each year varies depending on its financial situation, and is subject to approval by the PA Department of Community & Economic Development. In past years, the Bank’s EITC funding has been directed to scholarships, early childhood education initiatives, financial literacy, The Nicholas Wolff Foundation for Environmental Education (Camp Victory), and Bloomsburg University’s High School STEM program.  Executive Vice President & CFO, Jeff Arnold added, “The EITC program is a great way for local businesses to have a meaningful impact on our community. The program has been very successful and continues to be viewed positively by the State’s Legislature. If they are not already doing so, we encourage other local businesses to take advantage of this opportunity to get involved and support local education initiatives. We would be more than happy to talk with local businesses about the process and our experience.”

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June 3, 2015 - 5th Teen Star is the Most Exciting Yet

Bloomsburg, PA - The 5^th Annual First Columbia Teen Star Musical Competition was held on Sunday, May 31^st at Bloomsburg University. The bank celebrated this milestone year with a new voting format, creative performances, and a big announcement.

Andrew Miller, a senior from Berwick and returning finalist from last year, played two original piano compositions to captivate the audience and win the instrumentalist crown. Sydney Panikkar, a freshman at Central Columbia High School, claimed the vocalist title with her bold and unique use of a vocal “looper” recording device that made her a complete one-girl chorus. Panikkar and Miller each received $1,500 as the top awards. Second place finisher, Hannah Ledezma from Bloomsburg Area High School, earned $750 with her emotional vocal performances, and Southern Columbia High School’s Adam Mommo placed third and won $350 with majestic classical clarinet playing. The other eight finalists each received $100.

New this year, the audience participated in the selection process by text messaging their vote for the fourth finalist to advance to the final round.  This new voting format added an element of suspense to an already exciting show and really bolstered crowd enthusiasm. In fact, the finalist chosen by the audience went on to win the first place instrumentalist title.

First Columbia Bank & Trust Co. sponsors Teen Star to support the area’s musically talented youth, and ticket proceeds, totaling $5,500, are being donated to the music departments of the 12 finalists. Additionally, the bank surprised the crowd by announcing it will donate $200,000 to the area schools through the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program, which allows the bank to direct money, in the form of tax credits, to approved education initiatives. This funding will be used to introduce a new Tech Theater Production curriculum and purchase related sound equipment.  Lance Diehl, President & CEO explains, “The Teen Star event is a fun and meaningful way for us to advocate for keeping music alive in our schools. These young musicians amaze us each year with their incredible talent, and we hope that the new equipment from our donation will help them hone their skills even more.” Over the past five years, First Columbia Bank has awarded $25,000 in prize money to finalists and raised more than $25,000 from ticket proceeds and donations for the high school music departments at area schools.

Learn more about this annual event on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/firstcolumbiateenstar.

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May 7, 2015 - Teen Star Musicians Show Passion and Persistence

Bloomsburg, PA – Twelve high school vocalists and instrumentalists have emerged as finalists in the 5^th Annual First Columbia Teen Star Musical Competition. The finalists who are headed to the finale on May 31^st at 2:00 PM at Bloomsburg University’s Haas Center are:

1. Hannah Ledezma – Sophomore, Vocalist, Bloomsburg High School
2. Adam Mommo – Senior, Instrumentalist, Southern Columbia, High School
3. Kaili Hannon – Sophomore, Vocalist, Benton High School
4. Sydney Panikkar – Freshman, Vocalist, Central Columbia High School
5. Seth Barrett – Freshman, Instrumentalist, Southern Columbia High School
6. Yazmine Cooley – Senior, Vocalist, Berwick High School
7. Savannah Scherer – Senior, Vocalist, Southern Columbia High School
8. Andrew Miller – Senior, Instrumentalist, Berwick High School
9. Sarah Goble – Senior, Vocalist, Benton High School
10. Shanea Johnson – Sophomore, Vocalist, Millville High School
11. Cecelia Cook – Freshman, Instrumentalist, Southern Columbia High School
12. Rhys Kauffman – Freshman, Vocalist, Central Columbia High School

Fashioned after the popular TV show American Idol®, Teen Star is a musical competition among high school students across Columbia County. First Columbia Bank & Trust Co. sponsors this award-winning community event to promote the performing arts among the young people of the community and to support the music programs in area schools.

At the final event, 12 talented teens perform for the audience and a panel of judges from the music and entertainment industries.  This year’s guest judges include returning judge, Paul Smith of the band Gentleman East, former member of The Badlees, and Event Technical Services manager and adjunct faculty member at Susquehanna University. The Bank is also pleased to welcome, Dr. Charisse Baldoria, international prize-winning pianist and music professor at Bloomsburg University.  Returning to judge the show is also Aaron Kelly, musician, and our area’s local American Idol® contestant who finished in 5^th place in Season 9.

At the finale, there will be two Teen Stars selected – a Teen Star Instrumentalist and a Teen Star Vocalist—and each will win $1,500.  In addition, all ticket sale proceeds are donated to the finalists’ high school music departments. To mark the fifth year of the Teen Star program, the Bank also has a special announcement planned during the show.

Lance Diehl, President and CEO of First Columbia Bank, offered, “We are excited to be back with our 5^th year for the Teen Star competition and are encouraged to see how this program has taken hold in our schools and our community. It has really evolved into our Bank’s signature community event.”  Diehl added, “Over the course of five years, we have seen many inspiring stories of perseverance. In fact, this year we have a number of contestants who made the finals after trying out two, three, even four years in a row. Clearly, their perseverance is as strong as their passion for music, and that is just amazing.”

Over the past five years, more than 200 high school musicians have stepped up to audition. Since the show’s debut in 2011, the Bank has awarded $20,000 in prize money and donated more than $20,000 in ticket proceeds to the music programs at local schools. In 2014, the Teen Star program also became an award winning show, receiving the Independent Community Bankers of America Grand National Award for community service. Teen Star was lauded for its creativity and impact on the area’s local schools.

Tickets to the event are $5. All proceeds are donated to the music departments at the finalists' high schools.  Tickets are available at any of First Columbia Bank’s 13 community banking offices or at the door the day of the show.

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April 21, 2015 - CCFNB Bancorp, Inc. Reports First Quarter 2015 Earnings

Bloomsburg, PA – CCFNB Bancorp, Inc. (OTC: CCFN), parent company of First Columbia Bank & Trust Co., has released  its unaudited financial statements for the first quarter of 2015.

Net income, as reported under U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, for the quarter-ended March 31, 2015 was $1,684,000 compared to $1,584,000 for the same period in 2014.  Earnings per share for the quarter- ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 were $0.78 and $0.73, respectively.  The return on average assets and return on average equity were 1.05% and 8.33% for the quarter-ended March 31, 2015 as compared to 1.01% and 8.25% for the same period of 2014.

The net interest margin, tax effected, on interest earning assets was 3.39% at March 31, 2015 as compared to 3.34% as of March 31, 2014.

Total assets amounted to $637.5 million at March 31, 2015 as compared to $639.1 at December 31, 2014.  Since the end of 2014, investment and restricted securities decreased $2.8 million while net loans not held for sale decreased $484 thousand.  Over the same time period, loans held for sale decreased $398 thousand.   Total deposits increased $3.0 million while short term borrowings decreased $6.0 million since the end of 2014.

When compared to December 31, 2014, stockholders’ equity, excluding accumulated other comprehensive income, increased $950 thousand to $80.4 million as of March 31, 2015. The current level of stockholders’ equity equated to a book value per share of $37.57 at March 31, 2015 as compared with $37.00 as of December 31, 2014.  For the quarter-ended March 31, 2015 cash dividends of $0.345 per share were paid to stockholders as compared to $0.34 for the same 2014 period.  CCFNB Bancorp, Inc. remains well capitalized, with an equity-to assets ratio of 12.8% as of March 31, 2015 and 12.5% at December 31, 2014.

Note: This press release may contain forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Actual results and trends could differ materially from those set forth in such statements due to various factors.  These factors include operating, legal and regulatory risks; changing economic and competitive conditions and other risks and uncertainties.

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January 27, 2015 - CCFNB Bancorp, Inc. Reports Fourth Quarter 2014 Earnings

Bloomsburg, PA – CCFNB Bancorp, Inc. (OTC: CCFN), parent company of First Columbia Bank & Trust Co., has released  its unaudited financial statements for the fourth quarter of 2014.

Net income, as reported under U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, for the year-ended December 31, 2014 was $6,834,000 compared to $6,818,000 for the same period in 2013.  Earnings per share for the year- ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 were $3.15 and $3.13, respectively.  The return on average assets and return on average equity were 1.08% and 8.73% for the year-ended December 31, 2014 as compared to 1.10% and 9.05% for the same period of 2013.

The net interest margin, tax effected, on interest earning assets was 3.36% at December 31, 2014 as compared to 3.32% as of December 31, 2013.

Total assets amounted to $639.1 million at December 31, 2014 as compared to $624.0 at December 31, 2013.  Since the end of 2013, investment and restricted securities decreased $4.7 million while net loans not held for sale increased 5.7% or $21.5 million.  Over the same time period, loans held for sale decreased $9.3 million as the volume of originations decreased and several residential loans, originated in 2013, were reclassified to loans held  portfolio.   Total deposits increased $13.0 million while short term borrowings increased $1.8 million since the end of 2013.

When compared to December 31, 2013, stockholders’ equity, excluding accumulated other comprehensive income, increased $3.1 million to $79.4 million as of December 31, 2014. The current level of stockholders’ equity equated to a book value per share of $37.00 at December 31, 2014 as compared with $34.71 as of December 31, 2013.  For the year-ended December 31, 2014 cash dividends of $1.375 per share were paid to stockholders as compared to $1.35 for the same 2013 period.  CCFNB Bancorp, Inc. remains well capitalized, with an equity-to assets ratio of 12.5% as of December 31, 2014 and 12.1% at December 31, 2013.

Note: This press release may contain forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Actual results and trends could differ materially from those set forth in such statements due to various factors.  These factors include operating, legal and regulatory risks; changing economic and competitive conditions and other risks and uncertainties.

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