Every American success story begins with a dream and we believe the story of American Enterprise Bank of Florida is a true example of a success story. Our story begins with the underlying belief that everyone has a dream. It is supported by the knowledge that the American Dream is more than a possibility because of the freedom and privileges shared by the citizens of our great nation.

The American Dream is alive and well in our community. The American Dream is valued and celebrated as an example of all things good. And because of the American Dream, each of us has the potential to be successful in whatever venture we choose. Diligence, perseverance and hard work are but a few of the ingredients necessary to enjoy the fruits of success.

We believe we have all the ingredients needed to become the best bank in our market because we have the guidance, support and experience of our Board of Directors. We also have dedicated and committed shareholders who work as partners with each of us to promote the bank and who share in our dream. We recognize that our community is a wonderful place to live and work. We are both honored and grateful to serve the customers of our community.

American Enterprise Bank of Florida is a new community bank, but not really. While we opened the bank's doors in February 2004, our staff has been a part of our community for years. We have lived and worked in the community and enjoyed its many resources. This is our hometown. We know it. We serve it. We love it!

We have worked in large regional and national banks. We have met and served many wonderful customers over the years. But for us, we have a different calling. We believe that the community bank is a business of the heart. We know this based on years of experience and practice.

We are different and we like that about ourselves. We are innovative and creative. We know that most customers bank with a person, not the bank. We recognize our people as our most important asset. We pride ourselves on the integrity, spirit and experience of our staff. We love what we do and it shows. We take our responsibility to heart and we are committed to providing excellence in service.

Our President, Bennett Brown, deliberated and contemplated many hours before making the decision to open American Enterprise Bank of Florida. Bennett comes from a family immersed in banking and family-owned businesses. He knows firsthand the difference people make.

He painstakingly selected individuals from all facets of banking and walks of life. Some of our staff members have also been business owners, so we know how important a good banking partnership is to our customers. We understand that when you have a question you need an answer. We value and appreciate our customers. You can trust us. Our reputation speaks for itself.

So on a lazy afternoon on a hot summer day, a dream began. A man with nearly three decades of banking history in our community sat down with a piece of paper and a pencil and created the rough draft of a business plan. He carefully chose a group of business leaders from our community and asked them to form what is now known as our Board of Directors. And together they sought shareholders who would be business partners with the bank.

When the time was right for the team which is now known as our staff, Bennett carefully selected individuals who represent the very best in community banking, people who love the work they do and recognize that a customer has many choices available when choosing a bank. The fact that a customer chooses a bank with American Enterprise Bank of Florida is an honor.

Our story is a simple one, but one that is steeped in patriotism, dedication and pride. We are proud to share our story with you and to have you be a part of our success. We are honored that you consider American Enterprise Bank of Florida when attending to your financial needs. You see, our story does not end here. This is just the beginning.