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As basketball fans gear up for March Madness, it’s a good reminder that even the most talented teams rely on a solid game plan. Financial success works the same way. Preparation, discipline, and trusted guidance can make the difference between reacting to challenges and being ready for them.
The last five to six years have made one thing clear: uncertainty is inevitable. From COVID to significant shifts in the prime rate, change has become a constant. This uncertainty has forced many Americans to live paycheck to paycheck. In many instances, it is based on necessity; however, some could be avoided through discipline and delayed gratification. Setting aside at least three months of earnings helps to avoid being caught flat-footed when uncertainty inevitably arrives. To support this game plan, set up a liquid account for savings commonly referred to as an emergency fund, so that you can access money quickly.
From a hopes and dreams standpoint, having a game plan can help you achieve long-term goals. This game plan creates financial flexibility, ultimately leading to your enjoyment. Whether you are looking to remodel your home, buy a new home, or invest in rental property, financial preparation allows you to accomplish these goals.
At Coulee Bank, we can assist you with a wide range of financial needs. Our role is to help you build a game plan that prepares you for uncertainty while positioning you to move forward with confidence.
~Dirk R. Gasterland, CEO
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Our tellers are often the first and most frequent connection customers have with Coulee Bank. This feature highlights the people behind the counter who make every interaction count. Executive VP and Market President, Jodi Ehrenberger, says this about La Crosse Teller, Barb L.
Barb is exceptional in every customer interaction. She is warm, attentive, and truly takes the time to get to know each person she serves. Barb builds strong, lasting relationships with our customers by asking thoughtful questions and genuinely listening. She makes every client feel valued and cared for.
Barb has a tireless work ethic and consistently goes above and beyond. Her dedication to outstanding service is evident — she has even received flowers from grateful customers thanking her for the care and attention she provides. She handles transactions accurately and efficiently, and she is incredibly knowledgeable in retail banking procedures. Whenever assistance is needed, Barb always knows the right steps to take.
A shining example:
Barb doesn’t just complete transactions — she creates meaningful connections. Customers frequently express their appreciation for her kindness and dedication, and many specifically seek her out because of the trust she has built with them. Her positive attitude, attention to detail, and genuine care make a lasting impact on both our customers and her coworkers.
Build a banking relationship with the team in La Crosse.
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👀 Keep an eye out!
There’s a little Easter Egg 🥚 hidden in this month’s newsletter. Find it, and you could win an umbrella that's perfect for spring showers.
To enter the drawing for the umbrella, email marketing@couleebank.net, and let us know which article you found the easter egg in. One winner will be selected and notified via email on 3/13/2026.
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Business Banker Feature: Ben Monnens, a Trusted Business Partner
With a passion for people, numbers, and community, Business Banker Benjamin Monnens in our Minnetonka branch has spent the past five years helping local businesses grow alongside Coulee Bank. What started as an unexpected career path has grown into a role focused on building strong relationships with small, family-owned businesses.
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Defend Your Digital Bracket
As the tournament kicks off, scammers are looking to "press" for your personal information. Whether you’re filling out a bracket with friends or following the scores, here is how to keep your data in the win column.
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Community Starts Within: Celebrating the People of Coulee Bank
At Coulee Bank, community banking is more than a tagline; it’s how we show up every day for our customers, our communities, and each other. Our success is deeply connected to the people behind the work, and Employee Appreciation Day is a meaningful opportunity to recognize the dedication, care, and energy our employees bring to everything they do.
| | | We are incredibly grateful for all of our employees. They work hard and make significant contributions that enrich our company culture. This month, we recognize Brianna Kane, Business Banking Assistant St. Paul, MN. | | | | Brianna Kane is a Business Banking Assistant in our St. Paul branch. As a lifelong history enthusiast, she pursued a degree in anthropology at St. Cloud State University, where she gained hands-on field experience excavating a site at the Little Elk River Mission Preserve. Her passion for research carried beyond the field, as she wrote a paper and presented it at a student research colloquium, earning second place—just behind a graduate student. | | | International Women's Day | | |
In recognition of International Women’s Day, we’re sharing reflections from women across our bank, including advice they would give their younger selves and quotes that inspire them.
Advice to younger self: "Don’t chase success. Chase freedom & happiness. Be patient with your career. You don’t have to have it all figured out immediately; enjoy the journey."
~Emilie Watson
Advice to younger self: "Your path will not be linear, and that is okay. You will forge a path that you will be proud of."
~Sarah L.
Advice to younger self: "I’d tell my younger self to lead with curiosity and kindness; they open more doors than you can imagine. Don’t measure your worth against someone else’s definition of success; build a life that reflects your own values. Never settle for anything that asks you to shrink. Be brave enough to do things alone, and grateful for the moments you get to do them with others. Say yes to travel, exploration, and lifelong learning. And listen, really listen, to people’s stories. They will soften you, strengthen you, and guide you."
~Amy Bauer
Inspiring quote: "It’s a practice, not perfection. You don’t have to master it overnight. Even noticing when you’re sweating the small stuff is progress. Every time you pause and decide, 'This isn’t worth my peace,' you’re building a calmer, fuller, more intentional life."
~Annie Peterson
Advice to younger self: "Seek knowledge whenever the opportunity presents itself; do not let the fear of failure stop you from trying something because even in failure, you learn and grow; and lastly, life goes by quickly, so embrace it fully. You are creating memories for yourself and those around you, always."
~Melissa Mathena
Advice to Younger Self: You got this, now go out and GET IT! Really—go get it! Whatever it is you want, with hard work and determination, you can make the most of what you have been blessed with in this life. You go, girl!
~Emily
Inspiring Quote: "Live in the present—I feel like a lot of people’s lives are spent looking forward to bigger events, when we should really focus on enjoying the moments in between, because that’s when most of our life actually happens."
~Eva Peters
Advice to Younger Self: "Find happiness within yourself. Do not look for people or things to make you happy. As long as you look elsewhere, true happiness will not be attainable."
~Maureen S.
Advice to Younger Self: "At work, pay attention to what coworkers and other departments around you are doing. Pitch in and ask to help others. It will broaden your knowledge base and potentially put you on a better path in the organization."
~Kim Metcalf
| | A big thank-you to our amazing customers for trusting us with your banking needs! We’re so grateful for your loyalty and support. Here’s to many more years of growing together! | | |
Customer Spotlight: Moltron Builders an Industry Leader in Construction
For more than three decades, the Buckner family has built its reputation in the construction industry on trust, strong relationships, and doing things the right way. Moltron Builders, formally established in 2007, continues that legacy with a clear focus on long-term growth, disciplined execution, and delivering projects on time and within budget.
| | Coulee Bank commits to workplace excellence and nurtures growth and support within the communities we consider home. We volunteer, empowered by the belief that we can create positive change! | |
Spreading a little cheer in Rochester! ❤️
Our Coulee Bank Rochester team had the joy of writing and delivering handmade Valentine’s Day cards to a local senior living community. 💌
Small gestures can make a big difference, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to connect, give back, and brighten someone’s day.
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March Food Drive: March 1st – April 6th
Coulee Bank is proud to host a food drive supporting Neighbors, Inc. in the Twin Cities and Rochester Women’s Shelter, helping meet essential needs in our communities. Neighbors, Inc., which has served Dakota County since 1972 through a choice-based food market, is currently in need of the following items:
- Pancake mix
- Syrup
- Masa flour
- Canned meat
In Rochester, the Women’s Shelter relies heavily on snack items, including:
- Crackers
- Pudding cups
- Fruit cups
- Pretzels
- Microwave Popcorn
- Muffins
They can also use other individually packaged snacks to support residents throughout the day. Please remember to check expiration dates before donating. Together, we can support our neighbors with care and compassion.
*Stay tuned for another food drive in May that includes the Wisconsin region.
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Happy Birthday to our amazing Coulee Bank team members!
Here’s to another year filled with success, laughter, and great teamwork. Wishing you all the best on your special day—let’s celebrate!
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Happy Workiversary to our amazing teammates!
It’s been an incredible journey with each of you. Your dedication, teamwork, and positive energy make all the difference. Here’s to many more years of success and growth together!
| | Disclaimer - All content contained in this newsletter is for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon to make any financial, accounting, tax, legal or other related decisions. Each person must consider his or her objectives, risk tolerances and level of comfort when making financial decisions and should consult a competent professional advisor prior to making any such decisions. Any opinions expressed through the content in this newsletter are the opinions of the particular author only. | | | | |
