RIDGEWOOD, NJ, December 20, 2004 — Saturday, December 4th, proved to be an unusually festive December's day for Ridgewood, New Jersey, as Citizens Community Bank of Ridgewood opened its doors for a combination Grand Opening/Holiday party.

The mayor of Ridgewood, David T. Pfund, helped cut the ribbon at 8:45 am, and the line of people waiting to get in proceeded through the doors and into the Opening Day festivities. The first 100 people to enter the bank received a commemorative CCB mug, with "mystery money" of varying amounts tucked inside. From there it was on to a day-long swirl of tasty refreshments, free raffles every hour, a chance to win a trip for two to the Caribbean, which will be selected in a drawing in March, and entertainment for all, including a magician, clown, puppet show and balloons for the kids, and live music, caroling, and more for the adults. The music was especially festive, as the Ridgewood High School band provided several talented live ensembles.

Throughout the day, the atmosphere reflected a kind of homecoming celebration. Citizens is the only one of Ridgewood's many banks to be totally focused on the community. The President and senior management of the bank were all in attendance at the party, and will be in the bank's headquarters at 171 East Ridgewood Avenue on each and every business day. Unlike many other banks, the Citizens team makes its own decisions, and does not have to defer to a corporate hierarchy in some other state. And as a result, they can keep the benefit to the community uppermost in their daily considerations.

Visitors to the bank on December 4th also had the opportunity to take advantage of some excellent Opening Day specials. Free checking accounts, very competitive rates on CDs and high-interest checking accounts, and other financial instruments were all available for immediate sign up. In fact, the bank will continue to offer these very special rates and programs for weeks to come.

Even Santa Claus got into the act, dropping by for a photo-taking session in the late afternoon. It was all part of the plan to become known as Ridgewood's hometown bank, providing- genuine, personal, and caring service. This new attitude puts an emphasis on getting to know the customers and always making them feel wanted.

Citizens Community Bank of Ridgewood is located at 171 East Ridgewood Avenue. They are open six days a week, with late-night hours on Thursdays and Fridays. For information, contact 201- 670-8484.