OCEAN BANK SUPPORTS
THE YOUTH ETHICS INITIATIVE, INC.

MIAMI, FL – March 1, 2006 -- As part of Ocean Bank’s continued support of our community’s youth, the local Bank recently contributed to the Youth Ethics Initiative, Inc., a non-profit 501 ©(3) organization. Wil J. Blechman, M.D., Co-chair of the organization visited with Ocean Bank President Jose A. Concepcion to discuss the program.

“Since Ocean Bank’s inception in 1982, we have been deeply committed to helping our community’s youth,” said José A. Concepción, Ocean Bank President and CEO. “By supporting the Youth Ethics Initiative, Inc., we are helping to prepare our youth to better deal with the ethical dilemmas they may face.”

“Ocean Bank has contributed to the organization in 2005, when it helped to support a Youth Ethics Conference at the Miami Beach Convention Center,” said Dr. Blechman. “We are already planning the 4th Annual Youth Ethics Conference and are pleased to once again count on the bank’s help.”

High school students are responsible for planning and implementing the conference, which will once again take place at the Convention Center. More information about the program is available on their website YouthEthics.org.

Ocean Bank is seriously committed to supporting organizations that are making a difference in the youth of our community. It has made substantial contributions to the Education Fund, Florida Memorial University, Florida International University and the United Negro College Fund among others.

Ocean Bank is the largest independent commercial bank headquartered in Florida, with more than $5.6 billion in assets and $4.8 billion in deposits. Chartered in 1982, Ocean Bank operates a network of 21 branches throughout Miami-Dade and Broward counties. The community bank has received numerous awards and accolades from the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, The Beacon Council and the Florida Department of Education among others for its support of South Florida’s communities. For more information logon to www.oceanbank.com.