Carolyn Livengood column: First National Bank celebrates 45 years

0 Comments | Oakland Tribune, Dec 6, 2008 | by Carolyn Livengood

This year marks the 45th year that First National Bank of Northern California has been serving as a family bank for the thousands of clients who visit its 13 branches from Colma to Half Moon Bay.

"From day one, it was a labor of love," said Michael Wyman, First National's board chairman. "We were part of something very new and different."

First National was conceived in 1962 when six businessmen talked about forming an independent, community-oriented bank that would serve the needs of people in San Mateo County. T. Galt Atwood, Harry Carusis, Lawrence Vannucci, Gerald Mincher, Elton McGraw, and Ricco Lagomarsino became the founding board of directors when First National Bank of Daly City was first chartered on Feb. 28, 1963.

The bank's current chief executive, Thomas McGraw, is the son of Elton McGraw. Board member Lisa Angelot is the granddaughter of Lagomarsino.

The bank officially opened on May 3, 1963, at 150 San Pedro Road in Daly City. It moved to a permanent main branch at 6600 Mission St. in April 1964.

The bank featured many firsts, including a drive-up and walk-up window. In the 1990s, its name was changed to First National Bank of Northern California.

Due to its success, First National opened other branches over the years. Its administrative offices are now at 975 El Camino Real in South San Francisco. In 2002, it formed FNB Bancorp, the holding company that provides the bank with competitive and strategic options.

Throughout the years, it has followed the values of its founders: honesty, integrity and outstanding personal service

Believing in being a good neighbor, First National is involved in and provides financial support for youth recreation, health care, public safety and education. Many of its employees also volunteer their time.

"Because superior service is our focus, our customers tend to stick by us, many from the beginning," said Tom McGraw. "And several of our employees have also been with the bank for many years, the longest since 1967."

For branch locations and hours, visit www.fnbnorcal.com or call 650-583-8450.

Daly City Lions host holiday party: Daly City Gateway Lions Club welcomes everyone to its Vern Berkowitz Holiday Party today from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Doelger Senior Center, 101 Lake Merced Blvd., Daly City. (Doors open at 11:30 a.m.)

Berkowitz, a longtime Lion, died in 2005.

The event includes lunch, entertainment and a white-elephant sale. Please bring canned goods for the North Peninsula Food Pantry & Dining Center of Daly City and old eyeglasses for those in need.

Cost is $7 per person at the door. Proceeds benefit various charities. Questions? Call Robert Brizuela at 650-755-7188 or Shirley Zeff at 650-755-8596.

Free Gaelic Christmas concert in Millbrae: Irish singer, songwriter and author Mary McLaughlin will perform a free Gaelic Christmas program, including the songs and culture of Ireland, at 7 p.m. on Dec. 10 at the Millbrae Library, 1 Library Ave.

Born and raised in Northern Ireland, McLaughlin moved to the United States in 1997. She has been performing, teaching, and recording original and traditional songs (in both English and Gaelic) for many years. She's appeared on more than 12 recordings.

Questions? Call 650-697-7607 or visit www.millbraelibrary.org.

South San Francisco tastes good: The 23rd annual "Taste of South San Francisco," which featured buffet-style samples of food, beverages, and desserts from 41 local establishments, was a "smashing success," said Maria Martinucci, head of the SSF Chamber of Commerce.

Around 250 guests attended the culinary delight on Nov. 6. The event was hosted by the chamber and chaired by chamber member Jim Metz.

Aegis Living, Basque Cultural Center, Best Western Grosvenor Hotel, Carcione's Fresh Fruit, Cypress Teriyaki, El Charro Restaurant, Houlihan's Restaurant & Bar, Taqueria La Morena, Magnificent Gifts, Palm City, Raymond's Sourdough, Thai Satay and Yoko's were among the many participants.

Major sponsors included Dudley Perkins Co., Lum Optometry, San Francisco Ford Commercial & Fleet, San Mateo Credit Union, Sanrio, and See's Candies.

"The chamber also wishes to thank the many businesses that donated raffle prizes," said Martinucci.

Trivia challenge raises money for Project Read: Project Read of North San Mateo County raised $46,334 at its 16th annual Trivia Challenge, held Nov. 7 at the South San Francisco Conference Center.

"The proceeds, a 24 percent increase from 2007, are the most raised since the first challenge," said program manager Holly Fulghum-Nutters. "We are extremely grateful to the community for supporting Project Read, which offers free one-on-one tutoring to English-speaking adults in North San Mateo County."

Alisa Clancy, radio host of "Morning Cup of Jazz" on KCSM, emceed the event, which was attended by 420 guests.

"Information Central" captured first place after beating 40 teams, the largest number of participants to date. The team -- comprised of Nancy Dutton, of Pacifica; Matthew Juhl, of Fremont; and Andy Sedik, of SSF -- received an engraved 2008 Champion trophy.