Poulsbo Farmers Market 2024

Despite the windy weather, our Bank team proudly supported the Poulsbo Farmers Market, embracing the market’s commitment to keeping local dollars within Kitsap County and supporting local farms and businesses.

At the event, staff members—Kelly Garcia, Vice President & Branch Manager, Chelsie Calara, Professional Banker Lead, Lynette Reynolds, Professional Banker, and Arnie—were thrilled to connect with community members, showing our dedication to strengthening ties between market-goers and local enterprises.

To learn more about the Poulsbo Farmers Market and its valuable initiatives, please visit their official website: Poulsbo Farmers Market.

New Beneficial Ownership Information 2024

IMPORTANT: Starting on January 1, 2024, a new rule by the U.S. Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) in relation to the Corporate Transparency Act requires that owners of LLCs and Corporations file Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) with the U.S. Treasury within 90 days of registering their business. The business owner(s) is responsible for filing this electronically on FinCEN’s website. Businesses that formed before January 1, 2024 have until December 31, 2024 to file BOI. Any business that forms after January 1, 2025 will have 30 days to file after the date of formation. Failure to file can be up to 2 years in prison or a $10,000 fine.

 Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting: FAQs

What is beneficial ownership information?

Beneficial ownership information is identifying information about the individuals who directly or indirectly own or control a company.

Why do companies have to report beneficial ownership information?

In 2021, Congress passed the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) as part of the U.S. Government’s efforts to make it harder for bad actors to hide or benefit from their ill-gotten gains through shell companies or other opaque ownership structures.

How do I report BOI?

The form is found on FinCEN’s BOI e-filing webpage. https://boiefiling.fincen.gov/

What companies are required to report BOI to FinCEN?

LLCs, Corporations, or other entities created by filing a document with the secretary of state or similar office under the law of a State.

Is there a requirement to annually report BOI?

No. Companies are required to file an initial BOI report and only update when beneficial ownership information changes.

 Additional Resources

Additional FAQs: https://www.fincen.gov/boi-faqs
Where to e-file: https://www.fincen.gov/boi
Small Business Resources: https://www.fincen.gov/boi/small-business-resources
Small Entity Compliance Guide:   https://www.fincen.gov/sites/default/files/shared/BOI_Small_Compliance_Guide.v1.1-FINAL.pdf
Laws and Regulations: https://www.fincen.gov/boi/Reference-materials

$10 Billion Lost to Fraud in 2023

In 2023, more than $10 billion was lost to financial fraud across the country, impacting countless lives. While our bank has robust security measures in place to protect your money, it’s important to stay informed and vigilant. Learn how to identify, prevent, and report common scams by visiting the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions’ resource page here. Protect your financial future with these valuable insights and tips to avoid becoming a victim of fraud.

Proud Sponsor of The Coffee Oasis Annual Hope Gala

Liberty Bank is proud to once again sponsor The Coffee Oasis 11th Annual Hope Gala. Since 1997, The Coffee Oasis has been a source of hope and opportunity for youth in Washington state and in our local communities. Over the years, thousands of young people have found safety, healing, and a sense of home through their programs. The 11th Annual Hope Gala took place on September 13, 2024, with attendees from the Bank including Chelsie Calara (Gary), Professional Banker Lead, and Melissa Johnson (Justin), Loan Coordinator.

Let’s come together to support the vital work of Coffee Oasis and help create a stronger, more compassionate community for our youth.  Learn more by visiting their website at https://thecoffeeoasis.com/.

Liberty Bank Promotes Matt Hadlock to Information Security Officer

Liberty Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of Matt Hadlock to the position of VP & Information Security Officer (ISO).  This promotion comes in recognition of Matt’s exceptional contributions to the company over the past three years and his recent achievement of becoming a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).

Since joining Liberty Bank, Matt has demonstrated a strong commitment to the company’s information security protocols, working diligently to protect sensitive data and maintain compliance with industry standards.  His expertise and dedication have been instrumental in strengthening the company’s cybersecurity measures. 

“Matt’s promotion to ISO reflects his outstanding skills and leadership in the field of information security,” said EVP & Chief Risk Officer, Rhonda Morris.  “We are confident that Matt will continue to play a key role in safeguarding our company’s information assets and guiding our cybersecurity strategy.”

Matt continues to support the community by volunteering his time as audio engineer for Bainbridge Performing Arts.

Liberty Bank congratulates Matt on his promotion and looks forward to his continued success in his new role.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to work at Liberty Bank,” said Matt.  “The trust and support from Rhonda, senior management, and the board has been invaluable and it shows that the bank places a high priority on cybersecurity.”

Liberty Bank Sponsors 2024 Celebration of Leadership through Leadership Kitsap

Liberty Bank proudly sponsored the 2024 Celebration of Leadership, organized by Leadership Kitsap. Galina Georgieva, VP Relationship Manager II at the Bank, is a distinguished alumni and current Board member of the non-profit organization.

Leadership Kitsap is dedicated to fostering and empowering educated, prepared, and engaged community leaders. For more information about this impactful organization, please visit their website at leadershipkitsap.org.

Since day one…

During our 15^th Anniversary, we want to celebrate these two outstanding team members. 

Let’s begin with Denise Nicolet, SVP & Senior Relationship Manager. Throughout her tenure, Denise has consistently gone the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction.  Denise’s ability to connect with clients on a personal level, anticipate their needs, and provide tailored solutions has earned her not only the admiration of her colleagues but also the loyalty of countless customers. 

“Denise is a true asset to our team,” said Andy Leikin, EVP & Chief Credit Officer.  “Her positivity, professionalism, and attention to detail make Denise a role model for all of us.”

We proudly honor Danielle Hampton, Credit Analyst, for an outstanding 15-year journey of commitment and excellence in customer service.  Since day one, Danielle has been an integral part of our team, embodying our values and exceeding expectations at every turn. 

“Danielle is more than just an employee; she is the heart and soul of our organization,” said Rick Darrow, CEO & President.  “Her passion for serving our customers goes above and beyond, and her dedication to our company’s mission is truly inspiring.”

From the earliest days of Liberty Bank’s inception to present, Denise and Danielle have been a beacon of professionalism and dedication.  Their unwavering commitment to providing exceptional customer service has not only shaped our company culture but has also set a standard of excellence in the industry. 

As Liberty Bank celebrates this milestone, we extend our deepest gratitude to Denise and Danielle for their exemplary service over the past 15 years. We look forward to many more years of collaboration and achievement together.

Paws Fur Gala 2024

Liberty Bank proudly served as a Vader Level Sponsor for the 2024 Paws-Fur-Gala, celebrating another successful year of supporting pets and their people.  PAWS of Bainbridge Island & North Kitsap advocates for, educates, and provides direct services to nurture the bond of companionship between pets and their owners, promoting the health and well-being of both.  For more information, visit PAWS of Bainbridge Island & North Kitsap.

Welcome Melissa Johnson to Liberty Bank

Let’s extend a warm welcome to Melissa Johnson, the newest addition to our LB Team!  Melissa is returning to the Kitsap area, her hometown, alongside her husband Justin.  With over 20 years of experience in guiding and surpassing customers’ expectations in the mortgage loan process, Melissa joins us as our Loan Coordinator.

When Melissa isn’t at work, she indulges in outdoor adventures, loses herself in books, and making bean-to-bar chocolate.  “I’m excited to be back in Kitsap County, working for a local bank that has an impact in the community”, says Melissa.

Being raised in Kitsap provides Melissa with a chance to reignite her passion for assisting our community.  “We’re thrilled to have her on board”, said Andy Leikin, EVP & Chief Credit Officer. 

Jewel Box Theatre Gala 2024

Liberty Bank remains steadfast in its support of Poulsbo’s beloved local theater, The Jewel Box.

Not only did Liberty Bank proudly serve as a Spotlight Sponsor, but several of our dedicated staff members generously volunteered their time for the Gala event. Among them were Galina Georgieva, our VP & Relationship Manager; Chelsie Calara, a valued Professional Banker; Kelly Garcia, our VP & Branch Manager; and Lynette Reynolds, another dedicated Professional Banker. Although not pictured, Rhonda Morris, our SVP & Chief Risk Officer, also contributed as a member of the JBT Gala Committee.

The theater achieved a remarkable new fundraising record, a testament to the community’s unwavering support. Liberty Bank recognizes the vital role community involvement plays in sustaining cultural institutions like The Jewel Box, and we are honored to have played a part in this successful event.