House Republican Press Release

August 29, 2007

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Rep. Noujaim: New East End Sovereign Bank Office will Enhance Economic Growth, Create Jobs

Sovereign Donates $2,500 to Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Waterbury as Part of Ceremony

Sovereign Bank’s opening of its newest location at 105 Meriden Road in Waterbury will enhance the vitality of the East End neighborhood, create jobs for residents and contribute to economic growth in the city, said state Representative Selim Noujaim, the guest speaker at Tuesday’s grand opening ceremonies.

“Economic development is critical to the vitality of the East End and to the entire City of Waterbury,” said Representative Noujaim, R-Waterbury, who presented a citation from the Connecticut General Assembly to Community Banking Manager Michael Mucciacciaro during the ceremonies. “The new Sovereign Bank office is located on a site once occupied by an old dilapidated building that was a safety hazard for the neighborhood. I am very pleased that the bank is providing new employment opportunities for residents and contributing to economic growth in Waterbury. I wish them continued success in our city, elsewhere in Connecticut, and throughout the northeast region.”

“We’re very excited to be moving to our brand new office on Meriden Road,” Mr. Mucciacciaro said. “This new Community Banking Office underscores our commitment to providing Waterbury with the state-of-the-art financial tools it needs for success and to working with community leaders and local businesses to achieve our goals. With this relocation, Sovereign Bank continues to demonstrate their commitment to the growth of Waterbury.” Sovereign Bank made a $2,500 donation to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Waterbury as part of the ceremony.

“Please accept our sincere congratulations and wishes for great prosperity and success to the entire Sovereign Bank family. It is our honor to join the people of the East End in welcoming you to the neighborhood,” the citation stated.

The citation was introduced by representatives Noujaim, R-74^th District, Anthony J. D'Amelio, R-71^st District, Jeffrey J. Berger, D-73^rd District, Larry B. Butler, D-72^nd District, David Aldarondo, D-75^th District, and state senators Sam S. F. Caligiuri, R-16^th District, and Joan V. Hartley, D-15^th District.

In addition to Representative Noujaim, Waterbury Mayor Michael Jarjura and Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Waterbury Executive Director Robert Generali also participated in the grand opening ceremonies.

Including Mr. Mucciacciaro, Sovereign’s Waterbury East End Community Banking Office includes nine team members. The full-service office offers retail and business banking as well as investments. The new branch will have one drive-up ATM and one walk-up ATM.