LBT in the News

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 Lamar Bank and Trust, the only locally owned and operated bank in Barton County, is thrilled to announce plans for a new branch in Lockwood, Missouri. This will be the bank’s first expansion beyond its single branch in Lamar, where it has proudly served the community since 1925. Scheduled for completion in 2025, this expansion marks a historic milestone for the bank as it grows beyond its single-branch roots to serve even more customers.

“For nearly a century, we have been dedicated to serving the financial needs of our community, building lasting relationships, and empowering our customers,” said Pat O’Neal, President & CEO. “Our decision to expand to Lockwood reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting the growth and prosperity of our neighboring communities. We’re confident that Lockwood will view us as more than just a bank—we’re a dedicated partner in schools, community events, and local initiatives.”

The new branch in Lockwood will offer the same personalized service and innovative banking solutions that customers have come to expect from LBT, led by Jenni Oeltjen, Vice President and Lockwood Community President. With 25 years of comprehensive banking experience, Oeltjen brings unparalleled expertise and a strong commitment to serving the Lockwood and Dade County communities.

Ground has officially broken on the Lockwood branch, estimated to be completed later this year. As construction progresses, additional details about the grand opening will be shared.
 
For Immediate Release - February 3, 2025
 
 

Lamar Bank and Trust (LBT) is pleased to announce the promotions of two valued team members, Ciara Garfield and Crystal Wolfe. They have both demonstrated outstanding dedication and growth during their time with the bank.

With 10 years of service at LBT, Ciara Garfield began her journey in 2014 as a part-time teller while attending college. She quickly transitioned into the role of Human Resources Assistant / Loan Assistant in 2017. Through hard work and commitment, Ciara has developed a strong foundation within the bank and steps into her new role as Human Resources Officer and Loan Department Assistant Manager.

Crystal Wolfe’s journey with LBT spans nearly nine years. She started as a Customer Service Representative in 2016 and advanced to the role of Accounts Payable/Operations Assistant in 2022. With 17 years of experience in the banking industry, Crystal found her passion for marketing when she joined the bank’s Marketing Committee, leading to her promotion to Marketing Officer and Director of Marketing and Communication.

Both Ciara and Crystal expressed their gratitude for the opportunities and support provided to them by LBT. “I am thrilled for the future and excited to contribute even more to the success of LBT,” Ciara shared. “It’s been a pleasure to work here, and the guidance and encouragement I’ve received have played a significant role in my growth. I truly appreciate the trust the bank has placed in me.”

Crystal reflected on her career path, saying, “LBT has offered me a wonderful environment for growth. When I first started, I was encouraged to join the Marketing Committee, which sparked my passion for marketing. It has allowed me to harness my creativity while working to support the bank’s marketing goals. I’m excited for this new opportunity and look forward to playing a key role in the continued growth of LBT.”

Pat O’Neal, President & CEO, expressed his enthusiasm: “Could not be more pleased with the contributions of Ciara and Crystal. Congratulations to both of them on their deserved promotions and responsibilities.” Both promotions reflect Lamar Bank and Trust’s commitment to nurturing talent and providing employees with opportunities to grow professionally while continuing to provide excellent service to the community.
 
For Immediate Release - January 31, 2025
 
 

Lamar Bank & Trust announced the retirement of Danny Little, a long-time board member and past president, and the appointment of Mike Pittsenbarger to the board of directors. This transition is pivotal as the bank approaches its milestone 100th anniversary in March, marking a century of dedicated service to the community.

Danny Little has been a dedicated member of LBT for 47 years, serving as a past president and providing invaluable guidance and insight throughout his tenure. His contributions have been instrumental in shaping the bank's success, and his legacy will remain a part of its foundation.

Stepping into Danny’s position is Mike Pittsenbarger, CPA and owner of his own accounting firm in Lockwood, MO. With extensive financial expertise and a strong connection to the local community, Mike brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the board.

“Danny has been a part of this bank either as an employee or director since 1978. He has been instrumental in many of our accomplishments, and for that, we are thankful. At the same time, we are excited to get started in Lockwood. The addition of Mike to our board of directors only increases that excitement. His business knowledge and familiarity with the community will be an asset to our board and bank,” said Pat O’Neal, President & CEO of LBT.

For Immediate Release - January 24, 2025


Lamar Bank and Trust Company (LBT) is pleased to announce the addition of Jenni Oeltjen as the new Vice President and Lockwood Community President. With 25 years of comprehensive experience in all areas of banking, Oeltjen brings a wealth of expertise and a solid commitment to the Lockwood and Dade County communities. 

Pending the required regulatory approval, the bank plans to construct a new full-service banking facility In Lockwood. Groundbreaking is anticipated before year end with an estimated completion during the summer of 2025. 

“I am excited to bring my 25 years of banking experience and focus on hometown banking back to Lockwood and Dade County,” said Oeltjen. “For nearly 100 years, LBT has steadfastly committed to the Barton County area. I look forward to continuing the relationships I have built with members of this community and growing new ones.” 

Oeltjen began her career in the fall of 1999 as a part-time teller with Bank of America and quickly advanced through various positions, gaining invaluable experience in teller services, customer service, branch leadership, and consumer lending. After the Lockwood branch of Bank of America was acquired by Arvest in 2013, Jenni took on the role of Branch Manager, a position she held until 2017, when she became the Community Bank Lender. 

Pat O’Neal, President & Chief Executive Officer of LBT, expressed his enthusiasm for the new addition and highlighted the bank’s strong ties to the community. “We are 100% confident we have picked the right community to open our first branch facility,” said O’Neal. “I have always admired Lockwood as what I perceive as a very tight-knit community. We are confident that Lockwood will see us as more than a bank—they will notice our participation in the schools, community events, and community projects.”  

“Jenni Oeltjen is the perfect person to lead us through this process,” O’Neal continued. “Her knowledge, experience, and community involvement are what we are all about at Lamar Bank and Trust. We are thrilled to welcome her to our team, and we know she will be a valuable resource for our customers and the communities we serve.” 

For Immediate Release - October 10, 2024