By Yelany Rodriguez….
After announcing the winners for the firstever “Get Fit and Famous” program a few months ago, employees at First National Bank in South Miami have been more motivated than ever. Two particular employees showed outstanding enthusiasm and dedication.
The most recent winners, Mercy Prieto and Carol Forsythe will receive six personalized 30-minute fitness sessions, thanks to Fitness Together of South Miami that has partnered with Community Newspapers and First National Bank.
“We are very proud of both of our winners for July,” said Veronica Birch Flores, Executive Vice President who selects the Staffer and Officer of the Month. “Both are special in so many ways. They are the complete package; great contributors personally and professionally.”
Mercy Prieto with more than 30 years of banking experience has been responsible for Business Banking and Merchant Credit Card Service at First National for the past three years. Her main goal is to provide superior customer service and cost savings to clients.
“It is such an honor to be recognized as the Officer of the Month. I’m looking forward to my fitness session with Mr. Baumann,” Prieto said.
“Mercy is a long-time friend and colleague, our having worked together 26 years ago at another community bank,” said Ms. Flores. “When I left that bank, I took Mercy with me! I knew then she was very special and conscientious, so I’m most happy to have worked with her again for the last three years,” she added.
Carol Forsythe, Accounting Clerk now with First National Bank for four years, said, “It was a pleasant surprise being name Staffer of the Month. I would like to thank the management and officers of the bank for selecting me.
“I feel very proud to have my efforts recognized and rewarded in this fashion. As a consequence, I’m motivated to continue performing to the best of my ability to our organization goal of providing superior customer service to all clients. I am looking forward to enjoying my fitness sessions,” she added.
Ms. Flores commended Ms. Forsythe for her “hard work and dedication that never goes unnoticed. Carol is a wonderful and lovely lady, always bright and positive. She can be counted upon to bring a smile to anyone’s face,” she added.
Owner Scott Baumann of Fitness Together said that allowing community to share the success of the employees brings light to “the importance of living an active and healthy lifestyle. We recognize that the most difficult part of an exercise program is getting started, finding the time and being held accountable for it. With our lunch-time ‘Express Sessions,’ First National Bank winners can get started under the supervision of a professional trainer, get a fast and effective workouts and be back at their desks for a productive afternoon.
“Having a training appointment with someone who is genuinely concerned with your health and fitness makes all the difference in the world,” commented Baumann.
First National Bank of South Miami, 5750 Sunset Drive, South Miami is reached at 305-667-5511. For more information, visit www.fnbsm.com.
Fitness Together, 5829 SW 73 Street, South Miami, is reached at 305-665-3694. For details visit www.fitnesstogether.com.
