Pacific Crest Savings Bank, headquartered in Lynnwood, Washington, stands strong in the current economic environment, receiving a 5-Star Superior rating from BauerFinancial, Inc., the nation’s leading independent bank rating and research firm. The 5-Star rating is based on the overall financial picture of the bank and indicates that Pacific Crest Savings Bank is one of the strongest banks in the nation.

“In a climate where it is increasingly difficult to shine, Pacific Crest Savings Bank proves it can be done,” remarks Karen L. Dorway, president of the research firm.

“We are proud to have been selected as a 5-Star community bank,” said Sheryl Nilson, president and CEO of Pacific Crest. “We have always been, and continue to be, dedicated to providing the best products and services for our clients, and operating in a financially responsible manner.”

Pacific Crest Savings Bank has nearly $147 million in assets as of June 30, 2008, and remains one of the few locally owned independent premier savings banks in Washington State. After selling their Mortgage division in 2006, they now focus on savings, and began offering enhanced banking products and services in 2007. To learn more about Pacific Crest, visit www.paccrest.com or www.vphr.com.

BAUERFINANCIAL, INC., headquartered in Coral Gables, Florida, is the nation’s leading independent bank rating and research firm, and 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. To learn more visit www.bauerfinancial.com.