FIRST NIAGARA BANK SUPPORTS COLUMBIA MEMORIAL’S ANNUAL HOSPITAL BALL

Hudson, NY. First Niagara Financial Group has renewed its support for Columbia Memorial Hospital by purchasing a $5,000 table sponsorship for this year’s Hospital Ball. This year’s Ball will take place at The Point in Catskill on June 4^th. Proceeds from the evening will support a number of important hospital renovation projects and help purchase new technology and equipment for the hospital.

“First Niagara believes in the importance of being a good corporate citizen,” said Douglas Thorn, Regional President of First Niagara Risk Management. “This is a great opportunity for First Niagara to continue its support of Columbia Memorial Hospital, one of this area’s most vital assets. By giving to Columbia Memorial, we are also giving to the community, and that is a priority for us,” Thorn continued.

“The hospital’s many friends and supporters understand that having a strong local hospital benefits the entire community,” said Betsy Gramkow, Executive Director of the Columbia-Greene Hospital Foundation. “Individuals, community organizations and companies like First Niagara play a major role in the hospital’s success.”

“Since its debut 23 years ago, the Ball has become a very important annual fundraising event for the hospital,” Gramkow continued. “Sponsors and guests enjoy a wonderful evening knowing that they are supporting Columbia Memorial and ultimately, the entire community. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

For more information about this year’s Hospital Ball, or to join First Niagara as a sponsor, please contact the Columbia-Greene Hospital Foundation at 518.828.8362 or visit www.SupportColumbiaMemorial.com.

First Niagara Financial Group, Inc., through its wholly owned subsidiary, First Niagara Bank, N.A., has more than $30 billion in assets, $18 billion in deposits and 300 branches across Upstate New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut and Massachusetts. First Niagara Bank, N.A. is a community-oriented bank providing financial services to individuals, families and businesses. For more information about First Niagara, visit www.fnfg.com.