2009 Message To Shareholders

Stronger

Our 2008 message to our shareholders opened with a reference to the unprecedented challenges faced by the financial industry, and the economy in general. Now, one year later, we must report that these challenges persisted in 2009. But thanks to our ongoing commitment to our core values, Standard Bank continues not only to survive, but to grow stronger.

We continued to reduce operating costs, while increasing our focus on our customers and their needs. Upgrades in technology, from our new website to our first imageenabled ATM, simplified processes for our customers and helped us to communicate more effectively. New branches were opened, and another reopened after extensive remodeling, while plans moved forward for the reconstruction of our branch in Evergreen Park.

In November of 2009, the Standard Bank community was saddened by the loss of Donald L. Schultz, a member of our Board of Directors since 1980. Don was the owner of Schultz Gas Service in Lansing and SGS and EZ Self-Storage in Lynwood. He proudly served his country as a U.S. Marine in combat during the Korean War. Always a gentleman, his wisdom, knowledge and values will be greatly missed.

On January 12, 2010, our Board of Directors welcomed Mary A. Laraia. After a distinguished career in financial services, which has included senior executive positions with Bank One, First Chicago, and First Chicago NBD Corporations, she is currently a senior fellow at the Aspen Institute. Additionally, Ms. Laraia has served on numerous non-profit boards and government task forces. Her talent and experience will be a great asset to Standard Bank.

Your executive team remains grateful for the trust that our customers and shareholders have placed in Standard Bank. We thank our directors and staff for their commitment to the bank’s ongoing success and our communities for their support. Finally, we again pledge to remain your safe, secure, community bank long into the future.

Sincerely,

Timothy J. Gallagher
Chairman

Lawrence P. Kelley
President, Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chaiman

Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender

. Standard Bank's internet account access features make use of a private network, intended for authorized users only. We have confidence in the security measures we employ; however, this is not an invitation for individuals to attempt unauthorized access. Standard Bank reserves the right to monitor, record and prosecute any individuals who attempt unauthorized use of this system.