NAPA, CA--(MARKET WIRE)--Sep 25, 2008 -- Charter Oak Bank (OTC BB:CHOB.OB - News) has been awarded the "Best Places to Work in the North Bay" by the North Bay Business Journal for the third consecutive year. One of only 3 companies in the Napa Valley to win the award, a significant achievement for a company less than four years old. The award is based on employee feedback, as well as the Business Journal's extensive review. A Charter Oak Bank employee commented, "Employees are free to share various thoughts and ideas which are taken seriously. The staff is also valued and appreciated for the work they do."

The Charter Oak staff and board members are involved in over 50 community organizations, including several board memberships, and give over 2,000 hours of service to our Community annually. The Bank provides at least 20 days off per year in addition to flexible work schedules to accommodate school and child care schedules. Benefits also include 80% medical/dental/vision for the employee and 50% for dependents; bank-paid life insurance, 401K matching, and an employee assistance program.

Charter Oak Bank was created for business and personal customers, who feel they can rely on a locally owned bank, where decisions are made on site and profits are used to promote the strength and vibrancy of the Napa Valley. With over 350 years of combined Napa Valley banking experience, the Charter Oak team can often put together solutions unparalleled in the Napa banking community, while offering a personalized banking experience and adding value to our customers' businesses.

Brian Kelly, President and CEO, says. "This is truly an honor. The 'Best Places to Work' award validates that our staff is the backbone of our organization, and that the values and commitment to the community, that we set up as the foundation of the bank, are highly regarded."

     Brian Kelly
     President & CEO
     Charter Oak Bank
     600 Trancas
     Napa, CA 94558
     707/265-2000
     http://www.CharterOakBank.com