KB News

Credit Starts Small

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 15:55:40 GMT

Credit Starts Small: How Everyday Habits Shape Long-Term Financial Strength

When people think about credit, they often picture major milestones such as buying a home or financing a vehicle. In reality, strong credit does not begin with large transactions. It begins with small, consistent habits.

Credit is built gradually.

One on time payment.

One responsible balance decision.

One thoughtful financial choice at a time.

Small actions compound.

Paying a bill by its due date may feel routine, but that consistency builds your payment history, the largest component of your credit score. Keeping balances manageable influences the amount of current debt portion of your profile. Allowing accounts to remain open and active strengthens your length of credit history.

Even decisions about applying for new credit or managing different account types contribute to the overall picture lenders review.

Credit health is not determined by a single moment. It reflects patterns.

That is encouraging news. It means improvement does not require dramatic change. It requires steady attention. Setting up automatic payments, reviewing statements regularly, and monitoring your credit report are simple actions that can protect and strengthen your score over time.

Strong credit creates flexibility. It can influence interest rates, borrowing options, and long-term financial opportunities.

At Kentland Bank, we believe financial confidence grows from understanding. When individuals and families recognize that credit starts small, they gain the power to shape meaningful financial progress through everyday choices.

#CreditEducation #FinancialLiteracy #CommunityBanking #KentlandBank

Promotions Announcement

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 16:11:11 GMT

Meet the Team Members Advancing at Kentland Bank

Kentland Bank is proud to announce the recent promotions of four outstanding team members across the organization. These promotions recognize individuals whose dedication, leadership, and commitment to service have played an important role in the bank’s continued growth and success.

The promotions span several key areas of the bank, including customer service, operations, lending, and management. Together, these advancements strengthen Kentland Bank’s ability to deliver relationship-focused banking and personalized service throughout the communities it serves.

These promotions reflect Kentland Bank’s ongoing commitment to recognizing talent, supporting career development, and building a strong future for both the organization and its customers.

Kentland Bank remains dedicated to fostering career growth for all employees and ensuring that talent and dedication are recognized and rewarded. For more information about career opportunities at Kentland Bank and its commitment to employee development, visit www.kentlandbank.com/careers .

Brittney Greer

Vice President, Relationship Development Officer

Matthew Smith

Vice President, Loan Officer

Tonda Manuel

Vice President, Loan Officer

Colleen Huff

Assistant Vice President, Loan Officer

Character, Recommitted.

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 20:14:59 GMT

Our Legacy, Recommitted: Character

January offers a natural pause. Not to reinvent who we are, but to reflect on what guides us and intentionally choose it again.

At Kentland Bank, character has always been foundational to how we operate as a community bank. As part of Our Legacy, Recommitted, we are taking time to refocus on this core value, not because it has changed, but because it continues to shape how we serve our customers, support our teams, and build long-term trust.

This is not about redefining character. It is about recommitting to it.

What Character Means at Kentland Bank

At Kentland Bank, character is defined as upholding trust and respect in every relationship between staff and customers, therefore maintaining the integrity of Kentland Bank .

This definition sets a clear expectation for how we conduct ourselves every day. Character guides how we interact with customers, how we work together internally, and how we represent the bank in the communities we serve. It is the standard that protects our reputation, and the confidence people place in us as their trusted financial partner.

Character in Everyday Banking

Character is not theoretical. It is lived out in daily decisions and interactions.

It shows up in honest conversations, thoughtful problem-solving, and a willingness to do what is right, even when it takes more time or effort. It is present when challenges arise and when consistency matters most.

At Kentland Bank, character is reflected in reliability, transparency, and care. These moments may not always be visible, but they shape how customers experience our bank and how trust is built over time.

Recognizing Character in Action

Why Character Matters to Our Culture

A culture grounded in character creates trust at every level.

When trust and respect are present, collaboration is stronger and accountability feels supportive rather than punitive. Teams operate with confidence because expectations are clear and integrity is consistent.

Character allows us to hold high standards while remaining people-focused, creating an environment where employees feel supported and customers feel confident in their banking relationship.

Carrying Character Forward

Recommitting to character is not a one-time reflection. It is an ongoing choice.

As we move forward, character will continue to guide how we serve our customers, support one another, and show up in our communities. It remains the foundation of our relationships and the integrity of Kentland Bank.

This is how trust is built over time.
This is how consistency becomes culture.
This is our legacy, recommitted.

Promotion Announcement

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 19:13:21 GMT

Kentland Bank Announces Senior Leadership Promotions Within Loan Division

Kentland Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of two experienced lending leaders into senior leadership roles, reinforcing the bank’s commitment to disciplined credit oversight, strategic growth, and relationship-based lending.

Craig Hooker has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Chief Loan Officer, and Trace Nims has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Senior Lender.

These leadership advancements reflect Kentland Bank’s continued investment in experienced professionals who bring strong credit judgment, operational leadership, and a deep understanding of customer and portfolio needs.

Craig Hooker, Senior Vice President, Chief Lending Officer

Trace Nims, Senior Vice President, Senior Lender

Together, these promotions strengthen Kentland Bank’s loan leadership structure and reinforce the bank’s commitment to responsible lending, community stewardship, and long-term growth. By investing in experienced leaders with deep operational knowledge and strong customer relationships, Kentland Bank continues to position its lending team to serve individuals, businesses, and agricultural customers with consistency, integrity, and sound financial guidance.

Our Legacy, Recommitted.

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 16:57:27 GMT

January has a way of making people pause. Calendars reset. Goals are written down. Words like resolution, fresh start, and new beginning show up everywhere.

At Kentland Bank, we see this season a little differently.

The start of a new year is not about becoming something new. It is about taking a moment to intentionally recommit to what already defines us. It is a chance to reflect on the values that guide our decisions, shape our culture, and anchor the relationships we have built over time.

That is what Our Legacy, Recommitted is about.

Why Recommitment Matters

Recommitment is not a response to change or challenge. It is a leadership choice.

Strong organizations do not rely on momentum alone. They pause, reflect, and reaffirm what matters so that growth does not come at the expense of integrity. Over time, even the best values can fade into the background if they are not named, practiced, and reinforced.

Recommitting is how values stay alive.

At Kentland Bank, our core values are not abstract ideas or aspirational statements. They are expectations. They guide how we treat one another, how we serve our customers, and how we show up in the communities that trust us.

This recommitment is an opportunity to slow down just enough to say: This still matters. This still guides us. And we choose it again.

A Legacy Built Over Time

Legacy is not built in a single year or a single decision. It is built through thousands of everyday moments.

It is built when employees take extra time to help a customer understand their options. When teams support one another during busy seasons. When leaders hold themselves accountable to the same standards they expect of others.

Legacy is shaped by consistency.

Kentland Bank’s legacy has been built through relationships rooted in trust, accountability that strengthens confidence, and a commitment to excellence that reaches beyond our walls. These values did not appear overnight, and they are not tied to trends or timelines. They are the result of people doing the right thing, year after year.

Recommitting to our legacy is about honoring that history while continuing to move forward with intention.

The Values That Guide Us

Our legacy is grounded in four core values that shape how we operate and how we serve.

Character defines how we show up, especially when things are difficult. It is about honesty, respect, and protecting the integrity of every relationship.

Accountability ensures we take ownership of our actions and follow through on commitments. It keeps our standards strong and our trust intact.

Relationships are at the heart of community banking. They guide how we connect with one another, with our customers, and with the communities we serve.

Excellence reflects our commitment to growth, improvement, and impact. It challenges us to do better every day, not just for ourselves, but for those who rely on us.

These values work together. They are not separate silos. They reinforce one another and shape the culture that makes Kentland Bank what it is.

Values Lived Through People

Values only matter when they are lived.

Across Kentland Bank, these principles come to life through the people who consistently lead by example. Their actions may not always be visible, but their impact is felt.

This series intentionally highlights Legacy Award recipients, not to elevate individuals above others, but to provide real examples of what our values look like in action. These recognitions reflect behaviors we strive to see across the organization and serve as reminders that our culture is built by people, not policies.

By sharing these stories, we reinforce expectations, celebrate consistency, and acknowledge the quiet leadership that often goes unseen.

Service as the Expression of Our Values

Our values do not stop at the bank doors.

Service is how character, accountability, relationships, and excellence extend into the communities we serve. It is how values become visible beyond our internal culture.

From volunteering and supporting local initiatives to showing up for community events, service reflects who we are when we engage with the places we call home. It is not about recognition. It is about responsibility.

Recommitting to service is a reminder that our role goes beyond financial transactions. We are partners in the communities we serve, and our values shape how we fulfill that role.

Looking Forward With Intention

This recommitment is not a one-time reflection or a January-only conversation. It is a starting point for continued focus throughout the year.

As we move forward, these values will continue to guide decisions, shape priorities, and influence how we support one another. Recommitment creates clarity. It ensures that as we grow and adapt, we do so without losing sight of what matters most.

The goal is simple but meaningful: to remain consistent, intentional, and grounded in the values that define Kentland Bank.

Our Legacy, Recommitted

Legacy is not about looking back. It is about carrying forward what matters.

As this year begins, we recommit to living out our values through everyday actions, thoughtful service, and principled leadership. We recommit to the standards that have built trust over time and to the people who continue to bring those values to life.

This is not a new direction. It is a reaffirmation.

Our legacy continues because we choose it, again and again.

Tips to protect your Online Banking

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 17:51:04 GMT

5 Tips to Protect your Online Banking

Your bank account is at the center of your financial life. From paying bills and depositing checks to sending money to family, most of us depend on online banking every day. Protecting it should be just as much of a habit as locking your front door.

At Kentland Bank, we take cybersecurity seriously. Our systems and security measures are designed to protect your information and keep your accounts safe. However, the strongest protection happens when we work together. By staying informed and practicing good online habits, you can add another important layer of defense to your financial security.

Did You Know?

The Federal Trade Commission reported that consumers lost more than 10 billion dollars to fraud in 2023, the highest amount on record.
Phishing remains the most common online scam, with nearly one in four people receiving a fraudulent email or text attempting to steal personal information.
Using Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) can block over 90 percent of automated hacking attempts.

These numbers show just how important it is to stay alert and take simple precautions to protect your online banking accounts.

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, which makes this a great time to review the ways you can help protect your personal and financial information online.

Here are five practical steps that can make a big difference:

Tip 1: Use Strong, Unique Passwords

A strong password is the foundation of online security. Weak or reused passwords are one of the main reasons cybercriminals gain access to accounts.

Avoid using common words, birthdays, or personal details.
Combine uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
Never reuse passwords between banking, shopping, or email accounts.
Use a trusted password manager to securely store and create complex passwords.

Why it matters: Many data breaches involve stolen passwords from unrelated sites. If you reuse that same password for your bank account, a criminal could access your finances in seconds.

Tip 2: Monitor Your Account and Report Suspicious Activity

Keeping an eye on your account can help catch fraud early before it becomes a bigger problem.

Set up text or email alerts to receive notifications about transactions or account changes.
Review your statements regularly, even for small transactions that seem unfamiliar.
Contact Kentland Bank immediately if something looks unusual.

Extra Tip: If you ever lose your debit card or suspect it has been stolen, report it right away. Quick action can help prevent unauthorized charges and protect your funds.

Tip 3: Be Very Careful with Emails, Texts, and Links

Phishing scams often look very convincing, using familiar logos or language to trick you into sharing personal information.

Do not click links or download attachments from unexpected messages.
Be cautious of urgent language like “Act now” or “Your account will be closed.”
Remember that Kentland Bank will never ask for your full account credentials through email, text, or phone.

When in doubt, go directly to our official website or call us using a trusted number.

Why it matters: Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, but you can outsmart them by pausing before clicking. Taking an extra moment to verify a message can save you from major financial stress. Our team is here to protect you when you are unsure.

Tip 4: Keep Devices and Software Up to Date

Every update on your phone, computer, or tablet includes important security improvements that help protect your personal data.

Turn on automatic updates when possible.
Use reliable antivirus and anti-malware software.
Avoid downloading apps or programs from unknown sources.
Replace outdated or unsupported operating systems, as they may no longer receive security patches.

Pro Tip: Regular updates not only keep your device secure but also improve performance and stability.

Tip 5: Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Multi-Factor Authentication adds another layer of protection to your account. It requires a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone or an authentication app.

Common MFA methods include:

one-time passcode
biometric verification (facial recognition or finger print)
an authenticator app

Even if a criminal gets your password, they cannot access your account without the second verification step.

Why it matters: MFA significantly reduces the risk of account takeovers, one of the fastest-growing types of cybercrime.

Cybersecurity Checklist

Use this quick checklist to strengthen your online safety today:

Create strong, unique passwords for every account
Turn on Multi-Factor Authentication wherever available
Set up account alerts for withdrawals and logins
Update your devices and software regularly
Be cautious with unexpected emails, texts, or phone calls
Review account activity and statements each month
Report any suspicious activity to Kentland Bank immediately

Completing these simple steps helps keep your financial information secure and gives you peace of mind every time you bank online.

Additional Resources

If you would like to learn more about protecting your identity and financial information, these trusted sources offer helpful guidance:

IdentityTheft.gov – steps to recover from identity theft
AARP Fraud Watch Network – prevention tips and scam alerts
FTC Consumer Advice – articles and resources to keep your information safe
Cybersecurity is not about being perfect. It is about being prepared. By following these five steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of fraud and feel confident in your online banking experience.

Kentland Bank is committed to protecting your financial information and helping you make informed choices.

Stay tuned throughout Cybersecurity Awareness Month as we share more tips on spotting scams, securing devices, and learning how banks protect your data behind the scenes.

Kentland Bank

Today. Tomorrow. Together.
Helping Communities Grow

What Is Cybersecurity, Really?

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 14:54:38 GMT

What Is Cybersecurity, Really?

A Simple Guide for Everyday Life

Cybersecurity might seem like a complicated topic, but at its core, it is about protecting what matters most in our digital world. Just like we lock our doors at night or shred sensitive documents, cybersecurity is how we guard our personal, financial, and private information from falling into the wrong hands.

Today, nearly everything we do is connected to the internet - shopping, banking, working, learning, even turning on the lights in our homes. As convenient as this technology makes our lives, it also opens up more opportunities for scammers, hackers, and cybercriminals to try and take advantage of us.

This guide breaks down what cybersecurity really means, the risks it protects against, and the steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.

What Cybersecurity Really Means

Cybersecurity is the practice of defending your devices, networks, and online information from unauthorized access or criminal use. It applies to your smartphone, computer, tablet, smart home devices, and anything else that connects to the internet.

Cybersecurity includes:

Securing your personal and financial data
Protecting your online identity
Keeping your devices free from viruses and malware
Staying safe while using Wi-Fi, email, social media, and apps

Whether you are checking your bank balance, sending photos to family, or logging into your email, cybersecurity is what helps keep that activity safe and private.

Why Cybersecurity Affects Everyone

Cybersecurity is not just a concern for big companies or government agencies. Every person who goes online is a potential target. Cybercriminals often go after individuals because it can be easier and faster to exploit personal accounts.

Cybercriminals are looking for:

Credit card numbers
Social Security numbers
Bank account login details
Email and social media passwords
Personal information that can be used for identity theft

It only takes one click on a bad link or one reused password to open the door to serious problems. That is why cybersecurity is everyone's responsibility.

Common Cyber Threats

Understanding the types of cyber threats out there can help you recognize them more easily:

Phishing - Fake emails or texts that trick you into clicking a link or sharing personal info. They often look like they are from a company you trust.
Malware - Malicious software that can damage your device or steal information. It can come from downloading a fake app or opening a risky email attachment.
Ransomware - A type of malware that locks your files or device until you pay a ransom. Paying does not always mean you will get access back.
Social Engineering - When someone uses manipulation or lies to trick you into giving up information. This can happen over the phone, email, or even in person.
Public Wi-Fi Attacks - Using unsecured public networks can allow hackers to see what you are doing online or steal your login details.
Credential Stuffing - When hackers use stolen passwords from one site to try to log into other accounts that use the same credentials.

Simple Steps to Stay Cyber Safe

You do not need to be a tech expert to protect yourself online. Here are some basic but powerful habits everyone can practice:

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Avoid using the same password on multiple sites. Create long passwords with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Consider using a password manager to help keep track.

2. Turn On Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Whenever possible, add an extra layer of security like a text message code or authentication app in addition to your password.

3. Think Before You Click

If something seems off, it probably is. Do not click on links or open attachments in messages from unknown senders.

4. Update Devices and Apps

Install updates regularly to patch security flaws. Outdated software can be an easy target for hackers.

5. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Tasks

If you must use public Wi-Fi, avoid logging into bank accounts or entering personal information. Use a personal hotspot or a virtual private network (VPN) when available.

6. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

Check your bank, credit card, and other important accounts often. Report any suspicious activity right away.

7. Learn to Spot Scams

Stay informed about new scam tactics. Be cautious with emails, phone calls, and texts that seem urgent or ask for personal info.

What to Do If You Think You Have Been Hacked

If you believe someone has gained access to your accounts or personal information:

Change your passwords immediately
Contact your bank or credit card company
Report identity theft to IdentityTheft.gov
Consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with the major credit bureaus
Run antivirus scans on your devices

Acting quickly can help minimize damage and give you better control over the situation.

Where to Learn More

Want to dive deeper or get up-to-date tips? These trusted resources offer helpful information:

OnGuardOnline.gov - Safety tips from the U.S. government
IdentityTheft.gov - Step-by-step help if your information is stolen
CISA.gov - Alerts and tips from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency
FTC Consumer Advice - Fraud and scam education
Kentland Bank Protect Yourself Page

A Quick Note from Kentland Bank

While cybersecurity is a broad topic, we also want to share how we help protect our customers every day:

We use secure encryption to protect your data
We monitor for fraud and suspicious activity 24/7
We train our staff to recognize and prevent security risks
We will never contact you to request full login credentials or sensitive personal info

If you ever have questions about a message you receive or want to verify if something is legitimate, contact your local branch or use the number on your account statement. We are always here to help.

Cybersecurity is something we all benefit from when we stay informed and alert. It starts with awareness and grows with good habits.

This Cybersecurity Awareness Month, let us all take steps to protect what matters most.

Visit our Protect Yourself page anytime for more tips and updates.

Promotions

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 20:00:03 GMT

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Kid's Night | Rensselaer Farmer's Market

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 19:59:53 GMT

Investing in the Future: Kid’s Night at the Rensselaer Farmers Market

Community spirit was in full swing at this year’s Rensselaer Farmers Market Kid’s Night, and Kentland Bank was proud to be part of the fun. Our booth quickly became a favorite stop for families as kids lined up to play our “Pick a Piggie Bank” game. Each child walked away with a prize and maybe even a new favorite bank, while also learning about the importance of saving in a playful, memorable way.

It was heartwarming to see so many young faces light up with excitement as they dropped in to play, laugh, and learn. For us, moments like these represent more than just a fun evening. They are a chance to connect with families and show children that saving can be simple, rewarding, and fun.

At Kentland Bank, we believe in investing in the future, starting with the youngest members of our community. From their very first piggy bank to long-term financial goals, we are proud to stand as a trusted partner in helping families grow financial confidence every step of the way.

We are grateful to the organizers of the Farmers Market for creating such a welcoming space and to all the families who stopped by to share a smile with us. We look forward to joining many more community events and continuing to share financial tips that are approachable for all ages.

If you would like Kentland Bank to be part of your next school or family event, we would love to hear from you.

KB News

Credit Starts Small

Credit Starts Small: How Everyday Habits Shape Long-Term Financial Strength

Promotions Announcement

Meet the Team Members Advancing at Kentland Bank

Brittney Greer

Vice President, Relationship Development Officer

Matthew Smith

Vice President, Loan Officer

Tonda Manuel

Vice President, Loan Officer

Colleen Huff

Assistant Vice President, Loan Officer

Character, Recommitted.

Our Legacy, Recommitted: Character

What Character Means at Kentland Bank

Character in Everyday Banking

Recognizing Character in Action

Why Character Matters to Our Culture

Carrying Character Forward

Promotion Announcement

Kentland Bank Announces Senior Leadership Promotions Within Loan Division

Craig Hooker, Senior Vice President, Chief Lending Officer

Trace Nims, Senior Vice President, Senior Lender

Our Legacy, Recommitted.

Why Recommitment Matters

A Legacy Built Over Time

The Values That Guide Us

Values Lived Through People

Service as the Expression of Our Values

Looking Forward With Intention

Our Legacy, Recommitted

Tips to protect your Online Banking

5 Tips to Protect your Online Banking

Did You Know?

Here are five practical steps that can make a big difference: ﻿

Tip 1: Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Tip 2: Monitor Your Account and Report Suspicious Activity

Tip 3: Be Very Careful with Emails, Texts, and Links

Tip 4: Keep Devices and Software Up to Date

Tip 5: Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Cybersecurity Checklist

Additional Resources

Kentland Bank

Today. Tomorrow. Together. Helping Communities Grow

What Is Cybersecurity, Really?

What Is Cybersecurity, Really?

A Simple Guide for Everyday Life

What Cybersecurity Really Means

Cybersecurity includes:

Why Cybersecurity Affects Everyone

Cybercriminals are looking for:

Common Cyber Threats

Simple Steps to Stay Cyber Safe

What to Do If You Think You Have Been Hacked

Where to Learn More

A Quick Note from Kentland Bank

Promotions

This is a subtitle for your new post

Kid's Night | Rensselaer Farmer's Market

Investing in the Future: Kid’s Night at the Rensselaer Farmers Market ﻿

Here are five practical steps that can make a big difference:

Today. Tomorrow. Together.
Helping Communities Grow

Investing in the Future: Kid’s Night at the Rensselaer Farmers Market