Paragon Participates in Annual Food Drive

MEMPHIS, Tenn. [Oct. 19, 2007] - Paragon National Bank (OTCBB: PGNN.OB) today announced that it is participating as a title sponsor and its four branches will serve as donation centers for this year’s Food Bank Student Food Drive. 

Donations of non-perishable food items can be made at any of Paragon’s four locations between now and November 15.  Branches are located at:

• Paragon Place – 6300 Poplar Ave.
• Fountain Place – 5400 Poplar Ave.
• Saddle Creek – 7600 Poplar Ave.
• St. Francis (Loewenberg Building) – 6500 Park Ave.

“Giving back to the community is one of Paragon’s guiding principles,” said Robert Shaw, Paragon’s President.  “The Food Bank serves a vital need in the Memphis area and we encourage both our customers and the community-at-large to stop by and make a donation.”

The Student Food Drive is a food drive conducted by Mid-South area high school students to benefit the Food Bank.  In addition to collecting food for those in need, the drive promotes volunteerism and community involvement, and gives students the opportunity to set a “real life” example of how to get things done through teamwork. 

The food goes to The Food Bank for distribution to its 325 member agencies throughout the Mid-South.  These agencies include food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, youth programs, rehabilitation and residential centers, senior programs, daycares and schools.

The Food Bank, established in 1981, is the distribution center for wholesome food and other grocery items to any eligible charitable program that is feeding hungry and needy people free of charge.  The organization is one of 208 members of America’s Second Harvest – The Nation’s Food Bank Network.  The Food Bank has distributed more than 200 million pounds of food in its 26-year history.

Paragon National Bank is one of the Memphis region’s newest full-service banks. Paragon provides small and mid-sized businesses, their owners, and executives with a complete package of banking solutions delivered online and through a variety of technologically advanced solutions. Organized at a time when large and distant banks had taken over familiar Memphis institutions, Paragon enjoys the distinction of local ownership, authentic community engagement, and a staff of experienced banking professionals.