January 24, 2022
"My work is a direct expression of my own internal world: My feelings, emotions, experiences, memories. It’s a visual depiction of what I think and what I’m going through. It’s a direct effort to communicate and have my work communicate with me."
January 24, 2022
Christina O'Brien accepted the position of Senior Business Credit Analyst
January 18, 2022
Dustin Ellis has accepted the position of Customer Care Specialist.
January 10, 2022
“One day, when I was studying abroad in Australia, a stranger took up a conversation with me on the bus. We chatted about our shared love for endurance challenges, and he told me he and a friend rowed across the Atlantic Ocean together once. It was one of those sentences I couldn’t unlearn, and I knew then I wanted to do the same."
January 10, 2022
"I’m really happy in my current role as an auditor, so I haven’t felt the need to move positions within the bank. Working this job has afforded me the unique opportunity to work at the main office, although I do periodically visit all the branches and the operating center."
January 9, 2022
January 7, 2022
"For me, SBSI is so special because of the value it places on its employees and their families. I have three boys and an amazing wife that works as a nurse at one of the local hospitals. Our schedule can often become a challenge, especially over these last two years where the pandemic has frequently forced the schools to move to remote learning, but the bank has been so accommodating."
January 6, 2022
In an interview series from 2021, Stephanie and three of her clients spoke with us about how riding horses impacted their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Originally published as four separate posts on our Facebook and Instagram, you can now read their stories here.
January 4, 2022
Crysta Frost has accepted the position of Financial Services Administrative Assistant.
January 4, 2022
“My Place Teen Center is the brainchild of Westbrook community members. In 1996, many people came forward and requested that local officials assist them in finding a way to mitigate the rise of teen suicides and substance use disorder. In 1998, Mission Possible Teen Center opened. The need was clearly high and the space too small, so we moved to a former church in 2004 which continues to serve as our home location."
January 4, 2022
"I’ve learned through all of this that if you really love something, you can do it. Find out who your people are, keep your support system close, and be who you are without fear. I don’t let what happened to me define who I am. I don’t let it change how I choose to live."
January 3, 2022
Kenzie Lyons has accepted the position of Customer Relationship Associate.
January 3, 2022
Ash Muise has accepted the position of Customer Relationship Associate.
January 2, 2022
“When I was 20-something, I remember walking around the store in search of gifts for my family for Christmas... No object on a shelf felt meaningful enough for me gift to those I loved. Most of the items, I thought, would end up as burdensome trash stuffed in the attic only to be thrown away the following year. I wanted to create something that would last a lifetime, and these little wooden ornaments I make do just that."
December 29, 2021
“I’ve wanted to own and run my own dance school since I was a little girl. So after college, I moved to New York City to continue my training in hopes of dancing full-time. After a back injury sidelined my professional career, I knew it was time to move home and open my own studio. I opened Drouin Dance Center in 2005, leasing just 2,500 square feet in the Dana Warp Mill in Westbrook."
December 22, 2021
Priscilla Gallant has been with us since 1953, Robert Felker since 1951 and Priscilla Lamb since 1952.
December 22, 2021
“The Golden Rooster was first established in 1967 and was a popular lunch spot in this area. My family bought the business in 1985, and I’ve kept it going since then. I’ve been here about 36 years now and working here brings me a lot of happiness."
December 20, 2021
"Being a part of the community is important to us and being recognized for this award is so humbling. We are honored to serve others and so grateful to have been selected as one of the winners of the Heartbeat of the Community Award."
December 15, 2021
"I think small businesses are really the framework of the community in which they reside. In a way, they become a necessity, because they provide more than just services or products. They become part of the essence of the area, and people rely upon these businesses to create a sense of connection and bring people together.”
December 15, 2021
"Being here has changed my life for the better. It runs through my veins, and I am so thankful to have been introduced to this bank and to have heard those 6 little words 'have you ever thought about lending?' a little over 15 years ago.”
December 14, 2021
Tanya Carlin has accepted the position of Customer Care Specialist.
December 14, 2021
"We're happy to be able to continue on the legacy of Happy Wheels and provide a space for people to meet. It is the people, truly, that make this place so great and this effort so worth it. You’d be surprised how many people would come here from hours and hours away just to skate and drive home later that day."
December 13, 2021
"Everything I do is for the betterment of the bank and our community. I love the people I work with and we’re always lifting each other up and helping one another. I bring 35 years of experience in the mortgage business, and I love being able to pass on my knowledge."
December 8, 2021
"I’m third generation, and if someone is going to help the business carry on, it’s going to be in my lap. I love the legacy my grandfather left behind and I find the work fulfilling. I mean, I grew up here. It’s been a constant throughout my life. Even as a little kid, I was here a lot, so it’s really important to me." - Robert Roberge
December 6, 2021
"In 1994, I had the opportunity to buy a store in Westbrook and I was there 5 years before I lost the lease. Again, I was left wondering what I should do. So I went to my dad with a proposition. I asked him what he would think if we tried to fix up the barn and do business there, and without hesitation, he told me to go for it. And in 1999, we opened, and since then, sales have been growing and we love to see that."
December 6, 2021
"The relationships I have built and the people I spend 40+ hours a week with have made a big impact on my life. They’ve given me institutional knowledge, industry knowledge, and have even taught me the occasional life lessons here and there. I will carry all of their knowledge with me for the rest of my life."
December 6, 2021
"Serving our community is so important to us. It’s what we do. Our café is set up for everyone to feel comfortable in — in a way that reminds them it’s not just any coffee shop, but one they can call their own.”
December 3, 2021
Lyric brings innovative productions to the local community, giving local artists an opportunity to perform, create and collaborate. Deeply invested in youth, they also host a children’s workshop series that helps children learn the importance of creative expression.
December 1, 2021
“As a kid, I always dreamed of owning my own bowling center. When the opportunity to purchase the business came about, me and another employee decided to do it. I’ve been the owner since 2010, and it’s just been a privilege to keep this place open."
November 24, 2021
"I think people really like the fact we’re open in the winter. A lot of places shut down once summer ends and tourists leave. It’s not a real money maker, but at least it's a bright spot on Old Orchard Street in the middle of winter."
November 22, 2021
"We’re so grateful for our community. To us, they are an extension of our family. We want to be the place where families, friends and neighbors can get together for good food. We’re all about helping each other out, and believe in helping others as much as we can."
November 22, 2021
On a warm fall day in 1976, 15-year-old John Apte waited anxiously at his family’s airport in New Hampshire for a chance to take his first ever solo flight. After placing a slab of lead under his seat, John’s father gave him the go-ahead and he took off to the skies. At that moment, feeling more alive than he ever had before, he knew he had a future in aviation.
November 22, 2021
Patrick Sullivan has accepted the position of Customer Relationship Associate
November 19, 2021
"What makes our place so special is that it’s not just about getting your nails done. It’s a therapeutic experience. It’s an opportunity for customers to come in and get some pampering time. It’s a place where they can meet up and connect with people.”
November 17, 2021
Dyer Library has been a customer of the bank since the 1800’s, and the Deering family had a long connection to the bank over several generations. Many of them worked in different leadership roles locally, even serving as Board of Trustee members. The family took a liking to the library because they saw it as a community hub where well-to-do men and women were philanthropic in their community.
November 16, 2021
“Running is hard. There’s nothing really quite like it."
November 15, 2021
In 1978, at the mere age of 17-years-old, Sonny Cimenian travelled alone to the United States in search of a better life for himself. Without a dollar to his name and unable to speak English, he knew then he would have to work harder than ever before if he was going to succeed.
November 11, 2021
“My mom and dad bought this place in 1976. Dad was a mechanic and worked here every day of his life. Mom did too. But sadly, dad passed away two years ago. He was the kindest, most giving person I knew, and losing him has been so, so hard. Mom still owns this business, and it’s family-run, but it’s not the same without him. I wish he could have been here to see this award."
November 11, 2021
On October 22, Best Buddies Maine hosted a Gala in an effort to raise funds for their program initiatives. The event, which brought in over $205,000, had more than 300 people in attendance and brought in $30,000 more than the last in-person Gala hosted in 2019.
November 10, 2021
“The most poignant thing we bring to the community is joy. Because of COVID, We were void of joy for so long. Being able to open those doors and see people in the building happily playing and learning… it’s so special.”
November 9, 2021
"Before I started working at the bank in 2006, I lived in Biddeford but worked in Massachusetts. My commute had me driving 5 hours a day. After a while, it was starting to take a toll on me, and I knew something had to give.
November 8, 2021
In 1902, a small park centered around a roller skating rink and merry-go-round opened in Old Orchard Beach, serving refreshments and salt water taffy to lively beach-goers. Nearly 119 years later, Palace Playland continues to hold a special place in the hearts of visitors and locals alike.
November 5, 2021
“I don’t want to just be slinging coffee, putting bagels in people’s hands, and sending them on their way,” she said. “Who we are, the heart and soul of our business, is our customers. We’re more than just purchases. We’re people.”
November 4, 2021
CourageLIVES, an organization devoted to supporting survivors of human trafficking in Maine, will be hosting an online auction set to begin November 5, in an effort to raise funds for their cause.
November 3, 2021
Despite COVID, we continue to grow as a business. To us, community means being willing to help others in whatever ways possible. Someone who truly needs help may not even want to ask for it, but you can truly change someone’s life by offering yourself and your services.
November 2, 2021
“I got through it. I survived. I’m here,” said Sally Frongillo, a crossing guard for the town of Old Orchard Beach.
November 1, 2021
“The initiative of helping teenagers learn adult skills is one of our most important,” he said. “A lot of them end up working at Saco Scoop and it's their first job. It’s a place for them to learn how to strike up conversation, speak professionally to adults and multitask. Their vitality is just as important to us.”
November 1, 2021
“As a kid, I loved finding the ‘magic’ book. Oh, I loved it. I still love finding the ‘magic’ book."
October 29, 2021
“To me, community means a group of people that work together for each other's sake. A group that understands each individual person can bring something to the whole that makes the whole more complete,” he said. “And taking care of each other, of course, that’s super important.”
October 28, 2021
For Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which takes place in October, organizations such as Caring Unlimited hope to bring more attention to the issue and provide resources to those who may be seeking help.
October 25, 2021
“We want to do what’s right. Every step of our business model ensures we operate with integrity, and in a way that others can look up to."
October 25, 2021
On the corner of Elm Street and Pearl Street in Biddeford, you’ll find Tran’s Market: A store offering Asian and American food products well-known to locals for its uniqueness and affordability.
October 22, 2021
"We’re very grateful to be able to touch so many lives and we’re proud to be a part of such a stand-out community."
October 8, 2021
“I’ve lived in Biddeford for over 30 years, so I know the potential that this little city..."
October 4, 2021
Krysteana Scribner has accepted the position of Social Media Marketer.
October 1, 2021
You always find your way back Home.
September 15, 2021
Remember when our worlds existed without technology in the palms of our hands?
September 13, 2021
Lisa Bowdler is celebrating her 20 Year Anniversary at SBSI!
September 13, 2021
Mikhaela Helm has joined SBSI as an Assistant Manager – Customer Care.
September 13, 2021
Heather Emery has accepted a Retail Loan Processor position.
September 9, 2021
“I tried to qualify in the Maine Amateur many times and didn’t make it.”
September 3, 2021
Pat Leland is celebrating 5 Years at SBSI!
September 2, 2021
I was a Cub Scout for one year and was never assigned to another den. I thought that might be it for me, but I was reconnected to scouting when my oldest boy joined the Boy Scouts in 1988.
September 1, 2021
“Find something that lights your soul on fire and go for it.”
August 30, 2021
We are pleased to announce that John Boucher has joined SBSI as a Deposit Support Specialist.
August 27, 2021
A new phone scam, referred to as the Delayed Disconnect Phone Scam, has recently started growing in popularity throughout Canada.
August 19, 2021
Photography provides me a quiet escape; allowing me to clear my mind and recharge my energy.
August 11, 2021
It’s about time we’re “on the map”! All joking aside, it’s humbling to be recognized.
August 5, 2021
Jocelyn Sheltra has accepted a full time position as an Information Services Technician.
August 4, 2021
The resiliency of these young athletes is inspiring.
August 3, 2021
It almost felt make-believe how perfect the day was.
August 2, 2021
When I got bored of traveling the world for a living, I decided to retire at 60.
July 29, 2021
I’ve been a mystery fan since I was a little kid; I enjoyed Alfred Hitchcock, Rod Sterling and the Twilight Zone, John McDonald, Travis McGee, The Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew.
July 26, 2021
I’ll figure out a way to make it work. I’m determined; just because I don’t know the answer right now I’ll find it. I don’t give up.
July 2, 2021
We have been notified that there has been increased volume of callers spoofing SBSI phone numbers. These callers may attempt to explain that you are past due or provide other fraudulent claims and try to connect you with a representative.
April 8, 2021
Tony Leblanc is celebrating 20 years with SBSI!
March 5, 2021
Si es para nosotros, es para nosotros : If it’s for us, it’s for us.
February 8, 2021
I worked for over 30 years in Asia and returned home to Maine in the summer of 2019. I got involved in Southeast Asia by working for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which manages US foreign aid, starting in Thailand in 1990 and then Cambodia in 1992. I was involved in Rule of Law and Governance programs by day, but in my spare time I got really interested in Cambodia's traditional silk weaving. So I started helping a nearby weaving village improve their designs and environmental impact.
February 4, 2021
“I don't get to spend as much time on the farm as I used to, but what really gives me purpose is seeing the joy and wonder that's created for people of all ages.”
February 3, 2021
“For a long time it felt like I was holding sand that was slipping through my fingers. There’s hope now, and everything is starting to feel more real.”
February 2, 2021
We are pleased to announce the following promotions:
January 21, 2021
The timeless message of kindness and empathy is as important today as it was 30 years ago.
November 27, 2020
She started sneaking her Dad’s schoolbooks when she was a little girl to teach in her imaginary classroom.
August 3, 2020
Mark B. Black. He’s described by his great nephew, John Black, as a tall, bald, imposing figure of a man. He served on the board at SBSI in the 1940’s and 50’s.
March 16, 2020
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) warns individuals to remain vigilant for scams related to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).
