Among the most important functions of any bank is to provide quality products and services to accommodate its customers. One bank can be differentiated from another by the type of services it provides which are divided among several categories. Checking, savings, money market accounts, and mutual funds are usually offered. Customers can get assistance with investments as well as obtain some types of insurance. Home mortgages, student loans, and business loans generally are also available. Bank-provided payroll and tax services can help businesses. Each product offered depends on the individual bank; as a result, customers must choose their banks carefully. To help consumers feel comfortable and confident doing business with their banks, the various products and services typically offered by banks will be examined in the coming months.

HICKORY BANK is pleased to welcome you to our weekly financial column. In the weeks ahead, we will share recommendations on how to manage, conserve, and grow your wealth. We are a customerowned bank that takes great pride in providing a highly experienced and motivated professional staff to serve our local communities. Since our bank's earliest days, our primary mission has been to build longterm banking relationships with our clients. We have five convenient branches to serve you. Please call 434-2210 for more information. Congratulations to our Red Raiders for winning the East Coast Football Championship!