How to choose

your local guide

how to choose...

Article Index Hospice ........................................................ 2 Audiologist .................................................... 3 Real Estate Agency ....................................... 4 New Car Dealer ............................................. 5 Funeral Home ............................................... 6 Final Resting Place ....................................... 7

Tire Store ...................................................... 8 Medicare Coverage ....................................... 9 ATV, Motorcycle Dealer ............................... 10 Bank ........................................................... 11 Health Plan ................................................. 12

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A2 | Saturday, September 24, 2016

How to your local Choose guide

HOW TO GUIDE

How to Choose... a Hospice

When people talk about end-of-life care, there’s a common desire – to be at peace with their decisions.

It’s no surprise, because the end of life can be one of the most vulnerable and challenging times you or your loved one will face. Concerns for the comfort of a loved one with a lifelimiting illness, worries about the impact on family members, and anxiety about the grieving process all weigh heavily on your soul. That’s why choosing a hospice – the right hospice – can make all the difference!

It’s important to know the differences in hospice care, because there is a difference. When you’re looking for a hospice, what you’re really looking for is a partner – a partner who’s going to be there for you and your loved one – every step of the way. You need a partner you can trust – someone who’ll provide your loved one with the same type of tender care you give them.

But, what makes a hospice “good” or “bad’? And how do you make such an important decision in the midst of your family’s pain and sorrow? The reality is that unless you’ve used the services of a hospice before, you probably feel very overwhelmed and lost when it comes to the choice.

While every hospice is different, there are some characteristics you can look for that will give you the best chance of finding a great hospice. For example:

The right hospice partner will have decades of experience in end-of-life care, including pain symptom management. You’ll want a hospice with a proven track record of expertise; one that’s immersed in and dedicated to the community they serve. The best hospice is the one whose staff is able to spend quality time with patients and provide critical personal care.

Their staff should each have the heart of a servant, dedicated to giving your loved ones whatever they need – whenever they need it, 24/7 365 days a year. THAT’S TRADITION YOU CAN TRUST! The right hospice partner understands the emotional ordeal the family is facing and, as a result, responds to their needs in a gentle and respectful manner.

Their goal will be to take away as many burdens as possible, so you can spend quality time with your loved one. Even though this is an overwhelming time in your

lives, the right hospice should always strive to instill a sense of calmness whenever possible. THAT’S COMPASSION YOU CAN COUNT ON! The right hospice partner is one whose focus is always on human beings – not dollars and cents.

They will not refuse services to anyone who qualifies, regardless of their ability to pay. For their staff, hospice work is so much more than just a job. They believe in their heart they were divinely led to provide this special kind of care, and doing anything else just doesn’t feel right. THAT’S DEDICATION YOU CAN DEPEND ON!

ing for life’s final chapter, helping them find peace – physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Tradition you can trust.

Compassion you can count on.

Dedication you can depend on.

THAT’s Serenity HospiceCare!

What DO you look for when it’s time to call hospice? A trusted reputation. Spiritually-based devotion.

A “mission over money” attitude.

Choosing a hospice is one of the most important decisions you and your loved ones will ever make, so trust your family to the area’s resource for expert care and counsel-

“Peace Of Mind When It Matters Most” How is Serenity HospiceCare Different?

It is important to know the particulars of hospice care, because there is a difference.

Established in 1989, Serenity HospiceCare is the most experienced local hospice, providing the best possible care for the whole person: physically, emotionally and spiritually. Decisions about your care are made right here, with you, not by an out-of-state corporation. Our board of directors is made up of people who live, work and worship in the counties we serve.

Non-Profit (Serving All, Regardless of Ability to Pay) Free-Standing • All Care Provided by Nurses • Spiritually-Based • 24-Hour Crisis Response “Hospice isn’t really the end of life. For my dad, it was the

“When my dad was diagnosed with colon cancer, a co-worker told me Serenity HospiceCare were the ones I needed to call. There’s so much more they can do and can offer. Without Serenity HospiceCare, my dad would not have been able to live as good a life as he did.

Just knowing Serenity HospiceCare is in our community helping families just like mine brings joy and comfort to me. In my eyes, Serenity HospiceCare is the only hospice care.”

bill’s daughter

(573) 431.0162 (800) 876.0162 • SerenityHC.org “Serving all, regardless of ability to pay.”

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HOW TO GUIDE

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Saturday, September 24, 2016 | A3

A4 | Saturday, September 24, 2016

HOW TO GUIDE

How to Choose a Real Estate Agency

How to Choose - your local guide

How to your local Choose guide

Reputation is a company’s biggest asset.

So when the time comes to buy or sell a home you want to pick a reputable realtor and real estate agency. A good real estate agency will act in your best interests. That’s why it’s essential to find a high-quality real estate agency. Ask your family, friends and neighbors for recommendations. Their experiences will guide you toward a reputable agency.

What do people say about their services?

Once you have a list of possibilities, do some research.

Find out how long the agency has been in business. Ideally, you want people who know your community.

If the real estate agency is merely a side business, it might not give you the best results.

Buying and selling homes is a full time job. Look on the Internet and read customer service reviews. They should also have an impact on your overall impression of an agency.

Once you have narrowed your list, contact some businesses and ask questions. You should know about their listings, fees and commissions.

Choose an agency that has connections with the community, a sharp understanding of

neighborhoods that interest you, and solid contacts with other realty companies.

This assumes major importance when you’re selling your current house, because the agency usually handles the sale while the realtor helps you find your new one.

Larger agencies have more opportunities to network and sell your home. They also usually have more agents, which can translate to more and faster sales.

Be prepared to ask an agency the following questions if you are selling your home: -- How will you advertise my home? -- Will you use the Internet and newspapers?

-- How many pictures of my house will appear online?

-- On which sites will my home be featured?

-- Do you have other homes that have recently been sold in this price range?

-- How long has the agency been selling homes in my neighborhood?

-- What makes your agency unique?

The Road to Your New Home Nash Realty has been involved with the buying and selling of homes in the Parkland Area and adjacent communities for over 30 years. Since inception, we have been an important part of the local community and we will continue to serve all of the area’s real estate needs for years to come.

Our locally Cary Combs owned Broker / Owner company offers five office locations to better serve you. We also specialize in combining old fashioned service and communications with a modern up to date website in order to better We appreciate the opportunity to help you in your transactions. Feel free to contact us any time. assist both buyers and sellers.

The two biggest financial decisions you will make in your lifetime are buying and selling a home. Protect your investment and peace of mind by choosing the best and most trustworthy real estate agency you can find.

5

Locations Locations to to Serve Serve You! You!

Farmington 573-218-9599

Park Hills 573-431-5000

Potosi 573-438-7653

Bonne Terre 573-358-1050

Terre Du Lac 573-358-5599

Visit us online at ... www.nashrealtyinc.com

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Saturday, September 24, 2016 | A5

HOW TO GUIDE

How to Choose... a New Car Dealer

How to your local Choose guide

Finding a dealer you can trust is a great way to lessen anxiety when purchasing a new car, especially if you have never done it before.

With Crown Motors, the whole experience will become a simple, low-pressure transaction. Crown Motors is a refreshing contrast to unscrupulous dealers who may try to overcharge customers.

All good car dealers make the entire process of buying a car simple and straightforward.

Choose the Right CaR Selecting the right automobile for your needs and lifestyle is essential. Large families may need an SUV or van to fit everyone into the vehicle. But college students buying their first car would probably be happy with a compact car such as coupe.

The savings on gas will help ease your finances while you are in school.

purchasing a smaller car with a good MPG (miles per gallon) rating. Anyone in a cold climate might look at various vehicles with either all-wheel or frontwheel drive.

discounts on the car you want.

During specific times of the year, you might be able to get a great deal on a new car. It is particularly true during year-end sales.

Choose the DealeR

Of course, you should test-drive a car before purchasing it.

When you begin your negotiations, remember that price isn’t everything. Service should play a role as well.

You are building a long-term relationship with this dealer and manufacturer. It is not worth getting a less-than-satisfactory experience just to save a few dollars.

Once you have settled on a car model, check into area car dealers. Finding several dealers who sell the brand of car you want is usually best. The competition for your business will help you negotiate the total cost of your car.

Along with the car model, there are numerous options to consider. You might get a car with a navigation system, moonroof, GPS and satellite radio, just to name a few.

At Crown Motors, we NEVER charge Administration or Doc fees. We also provide complimentary oil changes and car washes with all new vehicle sales.

Make sure that you feel comfortable with the dealership.

Buying a car is an expensive, long-term commitment. It is always better to find a car salesperson who is informative and friendly. It will make your transaction as simple and comfortable as possible.

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A6 | Saturday, September 24, 2016

HOW TO GUIDE

How to Choose... a Funeral Home

How to your local Choose guide

Making funeral arrangements can be burdensome, especially when that process involves a close family member.

The difficulty begins with our need to deal with our own feelings of grief, while trying to figure out just how our loved one might have intended for us to proceed with this tribute that honors their life. All of us can and should help our families by writing down as much information as possible regarding the funeral service we want. Regrettably, only about 1 out of 3 will take the time to provide their family with the few basic guidelines they will need for that process to take place.

Of all of those decisions that should be made ahead of time, the most important is selecting a funeral home that can provide the care and support that will best benefit your family. Choosing that funeral home may be as simple as following a family tradition or staying within the local neighborhood. Other considerations might include: Reputation and experience of owners and staff; integrity and trustworthiness of ownership and staff; cost of services and goods provided; general appearance and care of facilities; and encountering a caring, considerate approach that includes a mature and professional attitude, along with a willingness to serve.

Aren’t they all about the same?

No. Consider the issue of professionalism. As you do, it is important to remember that a competent funeral home’s staff will work with you throughout the visitation and service. They will also follow up and assist you with the required authorizations and legal documents that will need to be filed. Choosing a funeral home that has a proven track record for completing those requirements properly and in a timely manner

will eliminate some unwanted frustrations and headaches.

Who can help me with this decision? Local clergy members, law enforcement personnel and your beautician or barber may be among those who would have helpful knowledge or opinions.

Non-biased funeral directors, (they do exist), are also a great resource.

What about cost? Where cost is an issue, simply visit those funeral homes under consideration, ask to speak to a funeral director or the owner. An open discussion of the cost of the services is always beneficial. The Federal Trade Commission mandates that funeral homes must provide you with a General Price List, which includes an itemization of services. Never assume that an advertised price will meet all of your expectations. Research and know the facts.

Is preplanning a good idea?

While many funeral homes still rely on third party professional salespersons to initiate pre-need contracts, it appears that the public is less and less in favor of this process. Speaking directly with a funeral director who is on

staff will insure that the services you request are the services that are provided. In addition, since funeral directors are seldom, (or never), compensated through commissions, he or she can often provide lower cost options.

These plans are typically transferable.

How important is it to prepay for the funeral services that I have planned? Each situation is different. Pre-paying for the funeral service that you have just planned is important and can provide savings by covering future cost increases. Your funeral director will arrange for this by placing your pre payment funds in a trust or by purchas-

ing a single pay life insurance policy. For those who already have adequate life insurance or other means available, pre paying may be of lesser importance.

Generally speaking, while everyone should consider advanced funeral planning for themselves, it is not always necessary to prefund those plans.

Ask yourself a simple question.

Is my community a better place because of my funeral director? If the answer is, “Probably not:” or, “I’m not sure:” Then it may be time to reconsider your choice.

Remember, supporting businesses who are strongly involved in the community where we live, helps strengthen our community.

C.Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Homes own and operate our own crematory ensuring your loved ones never leave our care. In addition we own and operate Hillview Memorial Gardens and Mausoleum in Farmington which allows us the opportunity to offer special pricing when pairing funeral services with cemetery purchase.

Funeral Planning Quick Reference Guide Legal information needed when arranging a funeral:

Symbolizing Trust & Caring Service since 1906

Full Legal Name Date of Birth Place of Birth Education & Occupation Social Security Number Parents Names Military Discharge Papers

Information needed to help complete obituary: Nicknames Immediate Family Members Names Hobbies & Areas of Interest Church Membership Awards Lodges & Organizations Military History

Personal attention is given to each family.

Our experienced and caring staff is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Newly remodeled and expanded lounge facilities!

Bonne Terre

Desloge

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(573) 431-2686

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www.czboyer.com

Items to consider when preparing for a funeral: Type of Service Music Selection for Service Minister Conducting Service Floral Choices Pictures to be Displayed Cemetery Information

The lists above contain information and items that will in most cases be needed when preparing to arrange a funeral service for a loved one. Whenever possible this information should be gathered ahead of time and kept safe until needed. If you would like a Free Funeral Planning Guide please contact C.Z. Boyer & Son, Inc. at one of our four convenient locations or online at www.czboyer.com 00 1

HOW TO GUIDE

How to your local Choose guide

How to Choose... a Final Resting Place

Saturday, September 24, 2016 | A7

No one likes to think about choosing a final resting place. It is a daunting task that is often overlooked when planning a person’s funeral. of promptly? As you make these observations and others you feel are necessary, inquire about who owns and maintains the property.

Does the owner/manager have experience and a good reputation?

Whether pre-planning for yourself or a family member, this end-oflife choice has a lasting impact.

The decisions made will leave a legacy for the deceased and help the living go beyond the grieving process. Here are some thoughts to consider when choosing a final resting place.

One of the first things to think about when selecting a final resting place is family. If you have a large number of family buried in a certain cemetery, then that would be a good place to start. If you do not have a family attachment or there is no space available, then you would need to begin to search what options are available in your area.

location is preferable, so loved ones can pay their respects as often as they would like easily. Once you have found that location, if time permits, visit the cemetery over the course of several months paying close attention to the care given in maintaining the property. Is it mowed often? Are roads kept in good condition? Are downed limbs and other debris taken care

In many cases even well-kept cemeteries may not have long term plans in place for the care and maintenance of the property.

Long term planning for upkeep and improvements are important.

One way to ensure that plans are in place is to choose a perpetual care cemetery. A perpetual care cemetery is a cemetery where a portion of all property sales is placed in a special fund designed to care for the long term financial needs of upkeep, maintenance, and improvements.

As you explore your options for a final resting place take your time and do your homework. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Look into the history of the person or company that owns the cemetery you

When purchasing a grave space, you are purchasing cemetery property. In much the same way as conventional real estate, location is essential. A convenient

are most interested in. Spend time talking to the property manager so you can feel at ease with your decision. Just remember if you have the opportunity to make this decision for yourself it can relieve an emotional and financial burden your family will face in the future.

C.Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Homes, Inc., Hillview Memorial Gardens and Mausoleum offers your family all of this and more...

• Peacefully situated 1/2 mile off “OO” Hwy on Westmeyer Road in Farmington, MO • Endowed care where present and future care of the cemetery is provided for.

• Continuously family owned.

• Backed by 5 generations of knowledge and funeral experience.

• Convenient office locations in Farmington, Park Hills, Desloge, & Bonne Terre.

hillview

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A peaceful setting just south of Farmington on Westmeyer Road

573-756-5257

Graves spaces start at $800 with no interest financing starting at $80 down.

Hillview Memorial Gardens and Mausoleum “Family owned & operated since 1906”

Caring Experienced Professional 00 1

www.czboyer.com

A8 | Saturday, September 24, 2016

HOW TO GUIDE

How to Choose... a Tire Store

How to your local Choose guide

There are a number of factors to consider when selecting a tire store. After all, tires are a significant investment, and considering the longer treadlife of most tires on the market today, they are also a long-term decision. Here are some tips tires are a long-term you should consider.

1. Selection

Tire size is only one factor in the selection process. Think of it like buying a pair of shoes. If you go to the store to buy work boots, and they only have dress shoes in your size, does that solve your problem?

By having a good selection, a tire store can help you get the tires that meet your needs, whether that’s wet traction, quiet ride, long treadlife, etc.

2. Service

You want a store with knowledgeable employees who listen to what is important to you. If you tell them the most important factors to you are good wet traction and a quiet ride, they should direct you to tires that fit those criteria. And since

investment, service after the sale is especially important.

Do they offer road hazard protection? Do they have a program for regular rotations and balancing? In short, if you have some sort of problem with the tires, will they be there to help resolve it?

3. Technology

Installing the tires is only one part of the equation. Proper balancing and alignment are critical to getting the most out of your tires. Balancing technology has improved greatly over the years. Is the tire store using modern equipment?

Improper alignment can ruin a set of tires, not to mention having a negative impact on the way your vehicle handles. Not all tire stores offer alignment services.

By selecting a store that offers alignment, you can have your vehicle’s alignment checked and, if needed, get it corrected at the same time your tires are installed.

4. Price

Everyone wants a good deal.

Some tire stores are large enough to buy direct from the

manufacturers. This allows them to price their tires more aggressively. Additionally, some stores offer financing options that make the purchase a little easier on your budget. If you find a lower price elsewhere but the store is lacking in these other categories, ask if the store offers price matching.

locations are equipped with the latest technology for balancing and alignment as well as other vehicle services. And when it comes to price, Plaza Tire Service has relationships with all the top manufacturers, allowing us to provide the best value to our customers. That’s Plaza Tire Service – A Real Tire Store!

At Plaza Tire Service, our tagline is “A Real Tire Store”. What we mean by this is that we lead the way in selection, service, technology and price. Plaza Tire Service has over one hundred thousand tires in stock. Our associates are knowledgeable and well-trained.

They regularly get specialized training from manufacturers so they are equipped to answer customer questions.

Plaza Tire Service

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Saturday, September 24, 2016 | A9

HOW TO GUIDE

How to your local Choose guide

How to Choose... a Medicare Coverage

From Traditional Medicare To Medicare Advantage Plans To Medigap Policies, You Have Plenty Of Options As you approach 65, you face an important milestone: You will become eligible for Medicare. Keep in mind, it’s important to understand the ins and outs of Medicare before you sign up. Making the wrong choices can lead to the wrong coverage or it can be expensive.

Supplemental Health Insurance Overview

Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance)

If you are diagnosed with a serious illness or are involved in an accident, traditional health insurance programs such as Medicare and Workers’ Compensation may not pay for all the services you need.

Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care.

Are you prepared financially if something did happen to you?

Supplemental insurance might be provide that answer. As its name implies, supplemental insurance provides you with another layer of protection, on top of existing policies you probably already have, such as health and life insurance. It can help you pay for care and services existing policies may not cover.

What is Medicare?

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people who are 65 or older, certain younger people with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a transplant, sometimes called ESRD).

The different parts of Medicare help cover specific services:

Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) Part B covers certain doctors’ services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services.

Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage Plans) A type of Medicare health plan offered by a private company that contracts with Medicare to provide you with all your Part A and Part B benefits. Medicare Advantage Plans include Health Maintenance Organizations, Preferred Provider Organizations, Private Fee-for-Service Plans, Special Needs Plans, and Medicare Medical Savings Account Plans. If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan, most Medicare services are covered through the plan and aren’t paid

for under Original Medicare. Most Medicare Advantage Plans offer prescription drug coverage.

Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage) Part D adds prescription drug coverage to Original Medicare, some Medicare Cost Plans,

some Medicare Private-Fee-forService Plans, and Medicare Medical Savings Account Plans.

These plans are offered by insurance companies and other private companies approved by Medicare. Medicare Advantage Plans may also offer prescription drug coverage that follows the same rules as Medicare Prescription Drug Plans.

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A10 | Saturday, September 24, 2016

HOW TO GUIDE

How to Choose... an ATV, Side x Side,

How to your local Choose guide

or Motorcycle Dealer

Whether you are a novice or an experienced pro, finding a good dealer will put you zooming down the right path.

Not only do ATV, Side x Side, and Motorcycle dealers offer machines for purchase, they can also act as an information resource and community hub.

1. DECIDE ON THE TYPE OF ATV, SIDE X SIDE, OR MOTORCYCLE

area, this might give you an idea where the best and closest are to visit. Let the type and style of machine you want guide you toward the right dealer.

When you are in the market to purchase any of these, your first step is to figure out which style of machine you want. There are many styles of all these types of machines but most dealers specialize in only 1 or 2.

Do they offer new and used equipment? Do they have in house financing? Ask about their hours of operation and maintenance/service process.

A Sport Bike has a sleek look.

Suzuki, Kawasaki, and Yamaha make sport bikes.

Tour bikes are best for long trips.

These classic-looking bikes feature comfortable seats and space for drinks, bags and other items.

They usually have large bodies and engine displacements. All of these manufacturers offer some type of touring style bike. They also offer off-road bikes for the outdoor adventurer or off-road racing.

2. RESEARCH DEALERS Start researching dealers by looking online. Especially if there isn’t a local dealer in your

vice. Look closer at dealers with strong customer service reputations.

As with any business, read these reviews carefully. Understand that normally, more unhappy customers leave reviews than happy ones. Satisfied customers are enjoying the afternoons riding their machines.

Note any dealers who are unavailable for your call. If a company is difficult to contact, that is a warning sign.

4. VISIT THE DEALERSHIP

3. CHECK THE REVIEWS

If you find a machine you like, speak with a salesperson. Focus on how he or she is talking to you. Note their knowledge level, kindness, honesty and quick service.

Once you have a list of prospective dealers, check customer reviews. It will tell you about the quality of customer service you will receive from customers who have had experience dealing with the company before you shop there.

Reviews also inform you about the reliability of products in the store. Avoid any dealership that has shoddy products, too high of prices or bad customer ser-

Once you have narrowed your list, it is time to visit locations and begin shopping.

The most essential quality is trust. If you don’t feel like you should trust the dealership or salespeople, walk away.

5. CHOOSE YOUR DEALER

inspect their bikes. Sometimes, a dealership will permit a trusted mechanic to check the vehicle before you purchase it. If you have chosen a good shop, they will accept your request.

Once you have found a good dealership and a machine that fits your needs, that is in excellent mechanical condition (if used), you can feel at peace with your purchase.

6. SAFTEY TIPS — Purchase an ATV, SxS, or Motorcycle that fits your strength, size and experience. Never let a child ride an ATV, SxS, or Motorcycle designed for an adult.

— Wear a helmet designed for ATV, SxS, or Motorcycle riders.

Always insist that all members of your crew wear their helmets.

— Follow safe towing practices when moving your ATV, SxS, or Motorcycle.

— Ask for permission before riding on private land.

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Saturday, September 24, 2016 | A11

HOW TO GUIDE

How to your local Choose guide

How to Choose... a Bank

You work hard for your money. But do you work as hard at selecting the individual or institution that watches your money? How your money is handled may influence where you choose to house your funds.

Not all banks are the same. Do you value quality customer service? Is a convenient location important to you? Are modern technological banking services a must-have for your busy life? A community bank may be the place for you to call home.

COST OF SERVICES

Community banks hold customer service as a highly regarded necessity. Good customer service extends to the topic of fees and services offered. Most locally owned banks offer the same array of services, from online bill payment to debit and credit cards or other electronic transactions, at a much lower cost than big banks. Studies show that small financial institutions also offer, on average, better interest rates on savings and better terms on credit cards and other loans.

Ask to look at a fee schedule to determine if the benefits match the cost.

GROwInG YOuR LOCaL ECOnOmY

Small businesses, which create the majority of new jobs, depend heavily on local banks for financing. Although small and midsized banks control less than one-quarter of all bank assets, they account for more than half of all small business lending.

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Meanwhile, big banks allocate relatively little of their resources to small businesses. The 20 largest banks devote only 18 percent of their commercial loan portfolios to small business.

Ask around. You may be surprised how many local businesses are backed by community banks.

LOCaL DECISIOn-makInG

At local banks loan approvals and other key decisions are made by people who live in the community, have face-to-face relationships with their customers and understand local needs.

Because of this personal knowledge, local financial institutions might be able to approve small business and other loans that big banks may reject.

Looking for a loan? Take heart that your local loan officer and management team make the decisions that impact your community.

Ask to take a look at your institution’s financial statements or check out bank ratings on www.FDIC.gov.

COmmunITY COmmITmEnT

The success of a community bank is ultimately tied to the success of its community. The more the community prospers, the more the local bank benefits.

This is why many local, hometown banks are heavily involved in their communities. In contrast, big banks are not always tethered to the places where they operate. Often, they use a community’s deposits to make investments in other regions or on Wall Street.

Most banks offer a variety of services. Whether you need to finance a home purchase, open a checking or savings account, get an auto loan or talk about financing a new small business, take the time to shop around.

A positive experience with a trustworthy financial institution just may help you sleep a little better at night.

Ask to speak to a representative about local involvement in the community.

SuppORT pRODuCTIVE InVESTmEnT

The primary activity of nearly all community banks is to turn deposits into loans and other productive investments. Big banks devote a sizeable share of their resources to trading or other Wall Street activity that may generate big profits for the bank, but provide little economic or social value for the communities they serve. Community banks focus on more stable and local investment options. These sound investment practices promote the importance of future success not only for the financial institution but for the community as a whole.

Since 1954, First State Community Bank has been known for its friendly service, community involvement and sound lending decisions. FSCB is owned and operated by First State Bancshares, Inc., a financial services holding company based in Farmington, MO. FSCB is a full-service financial institution, with a variety of loan and deposit products and services. The bank also owns First State Insurance Agency (FSIA), a full-service independent insurance agency. Investment and brokerage services are available through First State Financial Management, Inc. (FSFM), a wholly owned subsidiary of First State Bancshares, Inc.

Bank NMLS #412605 www.fscb.com

A12 | Saturday, September 24, 2016

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