May 2008: BAUERFINANCIAL, Inc. of Coral Gables, FL, the nation’s leading independent bank rating and research firm, is proud to announce that First National Bank and Trust Company, Beloit, Wisconsin has once again achieved its recommended rating. The rating is based on the overall financial picture of the bank and at 4-Stars, First National Bank and Trust can consider itself one of the strongest banks in the nation. This quarter represents the 25th consecutive time that First National Bank and Trust has earned the recommended status.

“The times are changing and fewer banks are qualifying for a recommended rating, but our rigorous standards remain,” boasts Karen L. Dorway, president of BAUERFINANCIAL. “You should be proud to know your local bank, First National Bank and Trust, can claim this honor and be confident to call it your bank.”

First National Bank and Trust was established in 1882 and has been a tradition in the Stateline area for 125 years. It operates through eleven conveniently located offices in Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. First National Bank and Trust can also be found on the internet at www.bankatfirstnational.com

BAUERFINANCIAL, INC., Coral Gables, Florida, the nation’s leading independent bank rating and research firm, has been reporting on and analyzing the performance of U.S. banks and credit unions since 1983. No institution pays for its rating, nor can they elude it. Consumers may obtain star-ratings by visiting www.bauerfinancial.com.

For more information on First National Bank and Trust Company, or any other U.S. bank or credit union, contact Karen Dorway directly at 800.388.6686 or e-mail her at kdorway@bauerfinancial.com.

BAUERFINANCIAL, INC. 2655 LeJeune Road, Penthouse One, Coral Gables, FL 33134.

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