"We are honored to be named a Top Workplace in Middle Tennessee," said Chris Holmes, FirstBank president and chief executive officer. "This recognition is a reflection of the great work being done by FirstBank associates across the company, not only in providing topnotch service to our customers, but also in making our branches and offices great places to work."

"Maintaining our culture and creating a rewarding work environment for our associates are among our top priorities as we continue to grow and offer our financial services and products to customers in new areas," Holmes said.

In the past year, FirstBank has opened new branch offices in historic downtown Franklin, expanded into North Alabama with the opening of a branch in Huntsville and a loan production office in Florence, and announced plans to open a branch on West End Avenue in Nashville. In addition, FirstBank has signed an agreement to acquire Northwest Georgia Bank, which will increase the bank's presence in the Chattanooga area market.

About FirstBank

FirstBank, a wholly owned subsidiary of First South Bancorp, Inc., is the third largest Tennessee-based bank, with 45 banking locations across Tennessee and Alabama, and mortgage locations across the Southeast. The bank serves every major metropolitan market in Tennessee and, with $2.5 billion in total assets, has the resources to provide a comprehensive variety of financial services and products.

FirstBank follows a community-banking model which began in 1906 when the charter was issued for Farmers State Bank, in Scotts Hill, Tenn. As Tennessee's leading community bank, FirstBank is committed to its role as a leader in the communities it serves. That commitment is reflected by the Ayers Foundation Scholars program, a scholarship fund established by FirstBank Chairman and sole shareholder James W. Ayers to advance higher education for young people in Tennessee.