Byron Bank named one of

“West Michigan’s 101 Best & Brightest Companies to Work for”

An exceptional culture distinguishes community bank stand-out.
Byron Center, Mich., – April 30, 2009 - Byron Bank (OTCBB: OKFC), (http://www.bankatbyron.com/), a subsidiary of OAK Financial Corporation, today announced they have been named one of “West Michigan’s 101 Best & Brightest Companies to Work for” by the Michigan Business and Professional Association. This marks the second consecutive year that the bank has been recognized for this award.
“Being chosen to be part of this elite group has real significance,” said president and ceo Pat Gill. “The ‘101 Best and Brightest’ honorees are chosen following an in-depth, independent evaluation of our culture, our human resource practices and our values. A critical part of the evaluation is conducted through interviews with team members. That means the evaluators get the straight, unfiltered story of what it's like to be part of our company.” Gill continued, “Given the job-related uncertainty and anxiety that many people are experiencing, this year's award is even more meaningful.”

An awards ceremony will be held on Thursday, May 7, at The Pinnacle Center in Hudsonville. All the winners will be recognized at that event. In addition, 10 companies will receive "Elite Awards" for specific accomplishments and one company will be named the "Best of the Best."

Founded in 1921, Byron Bank has more than $840 million in total assets and operates 14 full-service banking offices in Kent, Ottawa and Allegan counties. The Bank also serves business customers across West Michigan through its Mobile Banking courier service. Insurance and investment services are provided by the Bank’s subsidiaries, Byron Insurance Agency and Byron Investment Services. The bank’s parent company, OAK Financial Corporation, is publicly traded under the symbol OKFC.


Contact: Jodi Sevigny
Vice President – Marketing, Byron Bank
(616) 588-7412
jsevigny@BankAtByron.com