GAYLORD, MICH., March 4, 2009 - Northwestern Bank, the largest independent community bank in northern Michigan, has announced the promotion of Deb Lamberson to manager of its 711 West Main Street office.

Deb has over 20 years of local banking experience and has been with Northwestern since 2002, most recently as assistant manager. She will manage operations at the Main St. office, as well as open accounts and provide installment loans, home equity financing, and other consumer loans. Deb is a long-time resident of the Gaylord area.

Northwestern Bank was chartered in 1955 and is now the largest independent community bank in northern Michigan. A growing financial institution with over $800 million in assets, the bank is one of the leading mortgage, consumer, and commercial lenders in the region. Based in Traverse City, Northwestern Bank offers complete banking, investment and trust, and employee benefit services from 27 offices throughout northern Lower Michigan. Northwestern is committed to an "I can do that!" approach to service, which empowers employees to make decisions on the spot to meet customer needs and exceed their expectations.

For further information, call Tim Hall at (989) 731-9107 or e-mail thall@nwbank.com.