Chelsea Groton Bank Earns Highest Honor
for Financial Strength and Stability

February 2006: BAUERFINANCIAL, the nation’s leading independent bank rating and research firm, is pleased to announce that Chelsea Groton Bank, Norwich, Connecticut has achieved its highest 5-star superior rating for financial strength and stability. This rating indicates that Chelsea Groton Bank is one of the safest banks in the country, and has been for 47 consecutive quarters. What’s more, having attained this highest rating consistently for ten years or longer, Chelsea Groton Bank has garnered a spot in the even more impressive group of Exceptional Performance Banks.

“Earning a 5-Star rating is in itself an outstanding achievement - evidence of consistently sound management, financial strength and performance,” said Karen L. Dorway, president of the research firm. “Earning 5-Stars 47 consecutive times is really something to be proud of,” she continued. “When a local bank achieves the 5-Star rating, it is a reflection of not only the bank, but the community it serves and its commitment to that community. Mr. Duncan C. Stoddard, Chelsea Groton Bank’s CEO, should be very proud of his 5-Star team and their accomplishment.”

Chelsea Groton Bank was established in 1854 and has been committed to the needs of its neighbors and friends in New London County for 152 years. Currently it operates through 14 conveniently located offices in Groton, Mystic, New London, Niantic, North Stonington, Norwich, Pawcatuck, Salem, Sprague and Waterford. Chelsea Groton Bank can also be found on the internet at www.chelseagroton.com.

Chelsea Groton Bank: “Feel Good About Your Bank.”

BAUERFINANCIAL Inc., Coral Gables, Florida, is the nation’s leading independent bank rating firm. It has been reporting on and analyzing the performance of U.S. banks and credit unions since 1983. No bank pays for its rating, nor can any bank elude it. Consumers may obtain free star-ratings by calling 800.388.6686 or visiting www.bauerfinancial.com.

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For more information on Chelsea Groton Bank, or any other U.S. bank, contact Karen Dorway directly at 800.388.6686 or e-mail her at kdorway@bauerfinancial.com.