BELFAST — She’s the best: And you can bank on that.

Christine Beacham is from Liberty and has lived in the Midcoast for 16 years. Originally from North Carolina, she attended Elon University before transferring to UMaine Orono and graduated with a degree in journalism.

“From journalism to banking,” Christine said. She started with the then MBNA wave that rolled over the Midcoast for a few years. In 1996, she began her career with Key Bank. She served as the Camden branch manager for three and a half years, before taking over the manager’s position at the Belfast branch last June.

One of the reasons I sought out Christine for an interview was because I consider the Belfast branch of Key Bank one of the most beautiful lobbies I have ever had the pleasure to visit. Forget the modern and rich interiors banks try to impress you with, this branch has a character all its own.

The branch occupies the corners of Church and Main streets in Belfast. On the outside it looks pretty typical, but walk in the doors and you are swept back to a bygone era. The branch is rich in brass teller cages, walnut counters and trim.

“I think the branch is typical of branches located in small towns,” said Christine. “There’s lots of character in these historic buildings.”

Christine was quick to point out the sticker that is placed on one of the cages windows.

“It’s signed by J. Edgar Hoover, so it’s been there a long time.”

Christine thinks Belfast is going to be a good move for her.

“I really enjoy Belfast," she said. "The other day, I sat in my office and watched the high school band march down the street. I thought how cool is that? I’m looking forward to becoming more and more part of the community."

Christine has a husband, Todd, two stepsons, Sean, 16, and Patrick, 14, “who are both starting hockey season,” she said with pride.

She also has a daughter, Karinna, five, who has just discovered horses. She loves them, she learning to be around them and she helps care for them and cleans the stables. It’s a start.

“I truly believe Key Bank has a wonderful business model for a community bank," she said. "We’re a relationship bank. We believe in developing long term relationships. Plus we have the technology to offer up to the minute banking (online) and keep that personal feel. The people who work here are exceptional. It’s just an amazing team.”