celebrating 90 years of community banking · bring your receipts, credit applications, insurance...
TRANSCRIPT
MEMBER FDIC
MEMBER FDIC
MEMBER FDIC
Prairie du Sac Office • 555 Park Avenue
lobby:
Monday - Thursday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Friday 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
drive-up:
Monday - Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Visit Us At
Celebrating 90 Years of Community Banking
VAL 24-Hour Telephone Voice Response System
(608) 643-5098 or (800) 685-9404
Web Site
www.bankpds.com
Telephone Number
(608) 643-3393
Prairie du Sac555 Park Avenue
Sauk City865 Phillips Boulevard
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE
PAIDPermit No. 1
Prairie du Sac, WI 53578
MEMBER FDIC
MEMBER FDIC
MEMBER FDIC
Rebate Requires A Tax ReturnSome taxpayers will benefit by receiving not only tax refunds from filing their 2007 income tax returns, but also a tax rebate from Uncle Sam. Most single taxpayers will receive a rebate of $600 and married couples will receive $1,200; plus an additional $300 per child for children under age 17. Unfortunately, some high-income filers won’t qualify. Many seniors
with social security benefits of at least $3,000 can qualify even if they don’t pay any income tax. Such individual taxpayers are eligible to get at least $300 while married couples can get $600.
The IRS has recently announced they will move fast on the tax rebate checks. The checks will start going out in early May once the IRS finishes processing the millions of tax returns filed around April 15. If direct deposit is indicated on the 2007 tax return, the IRS will use that information to electronically deposit the rebate. The amount of the rebate will be computed on the basis of information contained in the 2007 Federal tax returns. The IRS will calculate the amount of the rebate check so no other action is required except filing a 2007 federal income tax return.
Thus, to receive a rebate, seniors and others who aren’t normally required to file a tax return must fill out certain sections of Federal tax form 1040A. For taxpayers filing only to receive the tax rebate, the IRS has a special way to fill out a simple version of this form. This simple tax form reports only the total amount of qualifying income from Form 1099-SSA and personal identifying information so the IRS can issue the payment. The return must be signed, dated and mailed to the designated IRS service center or can be taken to the nearest IRS office for filing.
For those who need assistance with filing for your rebate, there are volunteer organizations like VITA or AARP. You can also call the tax department at North Central Trust Company in La Crosse at (608) 782-1148 or obtain advice from other tax professionals.
www.bankpds.com • Member FDIC
ME
MB
ER
FD
IC
ME
MB
ER
FD
IC
ME
MB
ER
FD
IC
MEMBER FDIC
MEMBER FDIC
MEMBER FDIC
Spring 2008
5
Sauk City Office • 865 Phillips Boulevard
lobby:
Monday - Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
drive-up:
Monday - Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
E-mail Address
Mailing address
P.O. Box 130
Prairie du Sac, WI 53578-0130
DARWIN F. ISAACSON, CPA, PFS has been with North Central Trust Company, located at 230 Front Street North in La Crosse, Wisconsin for 17 years and serves as Executive Vice President. North Central Trust Company offers financial and
estate planning, company retirement plans, investment accounts, trusts and other financial services. Securities are not FDIC insured, no bank guarantee, may lose value, not a deposit, not insured by any Federal Government Agency. He can be reached at (608) 782-1148 or by email at [email protected].
Continued on page 2
“Giving Back”: Bank Celebrates Community Banking Month
SHRED FEST, Friday, April 18, 2 to 5 p.m.
Bring your receipts, credit applications, insurance forms checks,
business records and anything else you want shredded!
Community Banking Month is a great time to remember the terrific place Sauk Prairie is to raise a family, shop and work. The Bank of Prairie du Sac is profiling individuals both inside and outside the Bank who “give back” to the community. Their work is part of a “Giving Back” display in the Bank’s lobby during the month of April. Come see some of the many individuals who help make our community great.
Know a hometown hero? Join us in recognizing the many individuals who help make our community great. Nominate your own “Hometown Hero” as part of Community Banking Month. For more information and a nomination form, visit www.bankpds.com or stop by the Bank. Winners will be announced at Dairy Day on Friday, June 20.
You are invited to the Bank of Prairie du Sac’s main location to celebrate Community Banking Month on Friday, April 18. Enjoy refreshments and register to win a Visa® Gift Card.
Take part in our SHRED FEST between 2 and 5 p.m. on Friday, April 18 in the parking area of our main location. Papers piling up? Junk mail getting to be too much? Don’t rip them up and throw them away. Dispose securely to protect your confidentiality. For more information, call (608) 643-3393 or visit www.bankpds.com.
Construction Loans:Ease of Use, Low Fees
With rates at 5% and an APR* of 5.831%, look to the Bank of Prairie du Sac for a great rate and a smooth process.
• Six-nine month, interest-only loan • Easy transition to long-term loan • Draws and disbursements handled locally*APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Rate effective as of March 11, 2008. Based on loan amount of $300,000 for six months, interest payable monthly on advances made. Full balance plus any unpaid interest will be due at maturity. 1-4 unit owner occupied. All rates, points and program(s) are subject to change at any time. All loans are subject to credit approval.
Construction loans with the Bank of Prairie du Sac have long been touted among customers as low in overall fees and simplifying the building process. Recently we talked with some customers to get their perspective.
Service means a lotBill and Mary Ann O’Brien have been residents of the Sauk Prairie area since 1968 and decided in early 2007 to build their dream home in Sauk City. “We were working with another bank where we had a home equity loan to buy a lot,” says Mary Ann. She and Bill informed the bank that they wanted to begin building and took a vacation planning to begin construction upon their return. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen that way. “The banker hadn’t done anything,” says Mary Ann. It was then that she called the Bank of Prairie du Sac.
Bill says they completed the loan application one day and the very next day Vice President Linda Oelke-McNamer called to tell them they were approved. “How easy can it be?” says Mary Ann.
Linda Oelke-McNamer with Mary Ann and Bill O’Brien
What It Means To Be A Community Bank by Steven C. Ploetz
As another April rolls around, I want to take a moment to reflect on Community Banking Month and what it means to be part of a
community bank. The Bank of Prairie du Sac has been part of my life for a long time. My father Charlie became CEO of the Bank in 1976. He impressed upon me the ideals that continue to be part of everything we do as a community bank.
Protect our customers’ financial well being As a community bank, we are keenly aware of the role we play in lives of families and businesses as a caretaker for their futures. We take this responsibility very seriously, taking care to provide straight-forward banking. We look out for our customers, protecting their interests and privacy at all times.
Invest in the communityThe Bank of Prairie du Sac, as a community bank, should be a source of community re-investment, helping to ensure our institutions and charitable organizations are sound. We give back every day through contributions of time, talent and treasure, and are dedicated to providing a strong future for the people of Sauk Prairie.
Continued on page 2
Ask CecyQ
Cecy Haines is a financial representative practicing in Prairie du Sac, WI. She offers financial and
estate planning, mutual funds, retirement plans, stocks, annuities, long-term care and life insurance
as a registered representative of Commonwealth Financial Network—a member firm of FINRA/SIPC.
Securities are not FDIC insured, no bank guarantee, may lose value, not a deposit, not insured by any
Federal Government Agency. She can be reached at (608) 644-2712 or at [email protected].
Farmers UpdateManaging the MarginThe Bank of Prairie du Sac presented “Managing the Margin” on Tuesday, February 26 at the Cedarberry Inn in Sauk City to more than 20 area farmers.
Dick Wolkowski, of UW Madison’s Cooperative Extension Soil Science, presented managing tillage, soil compaction and getting the most for fertilizer dollars. “Farmers need to adjust soil management to remain profitable,” says Wolkowski. “Adaptation is critical.” He discussed the different yields under varying tillage practices, and suggested limiting field traffic to reduce compaction. Finally, with the cost of fertilizer, he stated that most crops respond to first units applied and that one should weigh whether more fertilizer will result in increased yields to cover costs.
Mike Hogan, of Stewart-Peterson Group from West Bend, presented timely information on grain and dairy marketing. Hogan’s message addressed the changing times in agricultural markets, stressing
that volatility is here to stay. He suggested some possible tools and resources available that will help maximize opportunities and minimize risks.
“Strategy is the key,” according to Hogan. He suggested hedge accounts to offset moves in the cash market.
The Bank of Prairie du Sac has a full line of agricultural banking products to meet an agriculture producer’s needs. For more information, contact Noel McCormick or Tommy Brennan.
A
Ask CecyWhen should I start planning for my retirement?
The short answer is now. However, generally speaking five years out is a critical time to plan by gathering information and deciding what you want your retirement to look like. Then you need to determine what income you will need. That will require you and your spouse, if you have one, to sit down and determine what will your expenses be? Once you have a firm idea, then you need to look at your assets and determine where the income will come from. Do you anticipate pension income or Social Security? Do you have an employer retirement plan or IRAs? Do you have savings ear-marked for retirement? Once you have finished your data gathering, call your financial advisor; they can walk you through the process to come up with a firm plan.
Want to know more about investments? Retirement planning? What is an IRA? How to go about “rolling over” a 401(k) from a previous employer or more?
Ask Cecy Haines, the Investment Representative at Park Avenue Investments, located in the Bank of Prairie du Sac, 555 Park Avenue, Prairie du Sac, WI 53578. This column will be a regular feature. Your questions are encouraged.
Please send your questions to:
Ask CecyBank of Prairie du SacPO Box 130Prairie du Sac, WI 53578
or e-mail them to: [email protected]
Note: Questions will be answered as time and space allows.
Got Milk?Dairy Day Friday, June 20
Wisconsin natives know dairy. It’s inherited at birth, the ability to discern sharp from mild, whole from 2%, even locally grown from imported. There’s a cheesehead in all of us. As part of Dairy Day, the Bank of
Prairie du Sac is celebrating dairy in a big way.
Join us in honoring our community’s “Hometown Heroes”, who will be formally recognized at noon (for more information about “Home-town Heroes” or to nominate someone, visit www.bankpds.com or the Bank). Enjoy lunch, courtesy of the Bank, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.,
including Culvers Frozen Custard. Lots of fun activities will be available for the kids, such as a petting zoo, jump house and games. Door prizes will be awarded throughout the day. Bring the kids for a “Got Milk” photograph, courtesy of
Sauk County Dairy Promoters.
2 3 4
Tommy Brennan, vice president, Bank
of Prairie du Sac, poses a question to
Mike Hogan, Stewart Petersen
What It Means To Be A Community BankContinued from page 1
Construction Loans Continued from page 1 Business Services With YOU in Mind
Remote Deposit and Online Cash Management Services now available
What if a business can have the best of both worlds, the personalized service of a community bank and all the bells and whistles of a mega bank? The Bank of Prairie du Sac can do that.
“We have an online product competitive with mega banks,” says Roxi Maier, vice president. “Not only does it have online banking, it has online bill pay and online cash management. Customers can transfer funds, request stop payments and set individual access rights for their staff, among other features. We also have remote deposit, enabling a company to deposit checks without leaving the office.”
The difference, however, between the Bank of Prairie du Sac and the competition, is the personal service that a hometown bank offers, low fees and the experience and stability that comes from working with one of the top rated banks in the United States. “Our business checking accounts are customized,” she says. “We work with each business to find the right balance to keep their service
optimized and their expenses low.”
Our business lending program features experienced lenders who also provide customized solutions to enable businesses to reach their goals. “We offer flexibility,” says Mike Jones, senior vice president.
The Bank of Prairie du Sac works with large multi-company customers and one-person entrepreneurial enterprises, offering a full range of services for every need. For more information about eBusiness, business checking or to learn more about our business lending program, call the Bank at (608) 643-3393.
Back Row (left to right) Gina Wyttenbach, Kim Shields, Diane Moseman, Laurie Huerth and Barbara Young. Front Row (left to right) Jackie Sliter and Roxann Grinde
Salute to Loan Services
Provide stabilityCommunity banks are some of the most highly capitalized and regulated institutions in the United States. As your local Bank, independently owned and operated, you can have confidence in our financial stability and ability to withstand challenging economic times. As an organization rated A+ in strength, part of less than 1% of banks in the United States with this distinction, the Bank of Prairie du Sac is a cornerstone on which our community can rely.
Service comes firstCommunity banks are staffed by neighbors, family and friends all trained and ready to meet your needs. At the Bank of Prairie du Sac, your satisfaction is our number one priority. Let us know how we can help you.
Locally owned, local decisionsOur customers are more than a number. We look for customized solutions to meet your needs.
State-of-the-art technology Finally, it is important to note that as a community bank customer, one need not give up the technological advances found at national financial institutions. We have the latest in banking technology and continually work to provide our customers with the latest efficiencies to improve their banking experience.
As part of the Community Banker’s ATM network, free services are available at more than 300 ATMs across the state. Our Internet banking solutions have capabilities to meet the needs not only for personal banking, but also for multi-company organizations. We’ll even help show you how.
Thank you for your business.
She describes the process as very smooth. “Between Linda and the title company, they took care of everything,” she says. “She even brought goodies to the construction crew on a hot July day.”
Beginning construction in late April, the O’Briens were living in their new home at the end of August after moving seamlessly from a construction loan to a traditional fixed rate mortgage.
They were also very impressed with the Bank’s fees. “They seem to be extremely reasonable,” says Mary Ann.
Choosing Local Can Mean Fewer HeadachesWhen Cindy Drew and her husband David of Prairie du Sac decided to build their new home, they chose a local financial institution. “We have worked with a number of other financial institutions, including nationally known mortgage firms,” she says, “but having someone trustworthy to work with the contractor and manage the draws was important to us to help the process go smoothly,” says Cindy. They chose the Bank of Prairie du Sac to finance the construction of their home in Westwynde.
Lower Overall FeesAn important factor in her family’s decision to choose the Bank of Prairie du Sac is the low overall fees for the construction loan. “The Bank of Prairie du Sac has a very competitive fee structure for construction loans,” says Butch Passehl, vice president. “We tend to be less expensive than the competition.”
Good customer serviceCindy sites prompt phone call returns from the mortgage team at the Bank of Prairie du Sac. She describes Butch, her lender, as “very patient and helpful and answered the many questions I had throughout the process.”
Overall the Drews are pleased with shopping local. “We deliberately chose to keep our money with a local bank,” she says. “We would recommend the Bank of Prairie du Sac to others—by all means.”
Know a Hometown Hero?
Nominations are being accepted as part of Community Banking Month. For more information, visit www.bankpds.com
MEMBER FDIC
MEMBER FDIC
MEMBER FDIC
Prairie du Sac Office • 555 Park Avenue
lobby:
Monday - Thursday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Friday 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
drive-up:
Monday - Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Visit Us At
Celebrating 90 Years of Community Banking
VAL 24-Hour Telephone Voice Response System
(608) 643-5098 or (800) 685-9404
Web Site
www.bankpds.com
Telephone Number
(608) 643-3393
Prairie du Sac555 Park Avenue
Sauk City865 Phillips Boulevard
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE
PAIDPermit No. 1
Prairie du Sac, WI 53578
MEMBER FDIC
MEMBER FDIC
MEMBER FDIC
Rebate Requires A Tax ReturnSome taxpayers will benefit by receiving not only tax refunds from filing their 2007 income tax returns, but also a tax rebate from Uncle Sam. Most single taxpayers will receive a rebate of $600 and married couples will receive $1,200; plus an additional $300 per child for children under age 17. Unfortunately, some high-income filers won’t qualify. Many seniors
with social security benefits of at least $3,000 can qualify even if they don’t pay any income tax. Such individual taxpayers are eligible to get at least $300 while married couples can get $600.
The IRS has recently announced they will move fast on the tax rebate checks. The checks will start going out in early May once the IRS finishes processing the millions of tax returns filed around April 15. If direct deposit is indicated on the 2007 tax return, the IRS will use that information to electronically deposit the rebate. The amount of the rebate will be computed on the basis of information contained in the 2007 Federal tax returns. The IRS will calculate the amount of the rebate check so no other action is required except filing a 2007 federal income tax return.
Thus, to receive a rebate, seniors and others who aren’t normally required to file a tax return must fill out certain sections of Federal tax form 1040A. For taxpayers filing only to receive the tax rebate, the IRS has a special way to fill out a simple version of this form. This simple tax form reports only the total amount of qualifying income from Form 1099-SSA and personal identifying information so the IRS can issue the payment. The return must be signed, dated and mailed to the designated IRS service center or can be taken to the nearest IRS office for filing.
For those who need assistance with filing for your rebate, there are volunteer organizations like VITA or AARP. You can also call the tax department at North Central Trust Company in La Crosse at (608) 782-1148 or obtain advice from other tax professionals.
www.bankpds.com • Member FDICM
EM
BE
R F
DIC
ME
MB
ER
FD
IC
ME
MB
ER
FD
IC
MEMBER FDIC
MEMBER FDIC
MEMBER FDIC
Spring 2008
5
Sauk City Office • 865 Phillips Boulevard
lobby:
Monday - Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
drive-up:
Monday - Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
E-mail Address
Mailing address
P.O. Box 130
Prairie du Sac, WI 53578-0130
DARWIN F. ISAACSON, CPA, PFS has been with North Central Trust Company, located at 230 Front Street North in La Crosse, Wisconsin for 17 years and serves as Executive Vice President. North Central Trust Company offers financial and
estate planning, company retirement plans, investment accounts, trusts and other financial services. Securities are not FDIC insured, no bank guarantee, may lose value, not a deposit, not insured by any Federal Government Agency. He can be reached at (608) 782-1148 or by email at [email protected].
Continued on page 2
“Giving Back”: Bank Celebrates Community Banking Month
SHRED FEST, Friday, April 18, 2 to 5 p.m.
Bring your receipts, credit applications, insurance forms checks,
business records and anything else you want shredded!
Community Banking Month is a great time to remember the terrific place Sauk Prairie is to raise a family, shop and work. The Bank of Prairie du Sac is profiling individuals both inside and outside the Bank who “give back” to the community. Their work is part of a “Giving Back” display in the Bank’s lobby during the month of April. Come see some of the many individuals who help make our community great.
Know a hometown hero? Join us in recognizing the many individuals who help make our community great. Nominate your own “Hometown Hero” as part of Community Banking Month. For more information and a nomination form, visit www.bankpds.com or stop by the Bank. Winners will be announced at Dairy Day on Friday, June 20.
You are invited to the Bank of Prairie du Sac’s main location to celebrate Community Banking Month on Friday, April 18. Enjoy refreshments and register to win a Visa® Gift Card.
Take part in our SHRED FEST between 2 and 5 p.m. on Friday, April 18 in the parking area of our main location. Papers piling up? Junk mail getting to be too much? Don’t rip them up and throw them away. Dispose securely to protect your confidentiality. For more information, call (608) 643-3393 or visit www.bankpds.com.
Construction Loans:Ease of Use, Low Fees
With rates at 5% and an APR* of 5.831%, look to the Bank of Prairie du Sac for a great rate and a smooth process.
• Six-nine month, interest-only loan • Easy transition to long-term loan • Draws and disbursements handled locally*APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Rate effective as of March 11, 2008. Based on loan amount of $300,000 for six months, interest payable monthly on advances made. Full balance plus any unpaid interest will be due at maturity. 1-4 unit owner occupied. All rates, points and program(s) are subject to change at any time. All loans are subject to credit approval.
Construction loans with the Bank of Prairie du Sac have long been touted among customers as low in overall fees and simplifying the building process. Recently we talked with some customers to get their perspective.
Service means a lotBill and Mary Ann O’Brien have been residents of the Sauk Prairie area since 1968 and decided in early 2007 to build their dream home in Sauk City. “We were working with another bank where we had a home equity loan to buy a lot,” says Mary Ann. She and Bill informed the bank that they wanted to begin building and took a vacation planning to begin construction upon their return. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen that way. “The banker hadn’t done anything,” says Mary Ann. It was then that she called the Bank of Prairie du Sac.
Bill says they completed the loan application one day and the very next day Vice President Linda Oelke-McNamer called to tell them they were approved. “How easy can it be?” says Mary Ann.
Linda Oelke-McNamer with Mary Ann and Bill O’Brien
What It Means To Be A Community Bank by Steven C. Ploetz
As another April rolls around, I want to take a moment to reflect on Community Banking Month and what it means to be part of a
community bank. The Bank of Prairie du Sac has been part of my life for a long time. My father Charlie became CEO of the Bank in 1976. He impressed upon me the ideals that continue to be part of everything we do as a community bank.
Protect our customers’ financial well being As a community bank, we are keenly aware of the role we play in lives of families and businesses as a caretaker for their futures. We take this responsibility very seriously, taking care to provide straight-forward banking. We look out for our customers, protecting their interests and privacy at all times.
Invest in the communityThe Bank of Prairie du Sac, as a community bank, should be a source of community re-investment, helping to ensure our institutions and charitable organizations are sound. We give back every day through contributions of time, talent and treasure, and are dedicated to providing a strong future for the people of Sauk Prairie.
Continued on page 2
Ask CecyQ
Cecy Haines is a financial representative practicing in Prairie du Sac, WI. She offers financial and
estate planning, mutual funds, retirement plans, stocks, annuities, long-term care and life insurance
as a registered representative of Commonwealth Financial Network—a member firm of FINRA/SIPC.
Securities are not FDIC insured, no bank guarantee, may lose value, not a deposit, not insured by any
Federal Government Agency. She can be reached at (608) 644-2712 or at [email protected].
Farmers UpdateManaging the MarginThe Bank of Prairie du Sac presented “Managing the Margin” on Tuesday, February 26 at the Cedarberry Inn in Sauk City to more than 20 area farmers.
Dick Wolkowski, of UW Madison’s Cooperative Extension Soil Science, presented managing tillage, soil compaction and getting the most for fertilizer dollars. “Farmers need to adjust soil management to remain profitable,” says Wolkowski. “Adaptation is critical.” He discussed the different yields under varying tillage practices, and suggested limiting field traffic to reduce compaction. Finally, with the cost of fertilizer, he stated that most crops respond to first units applied and that one should weigh whether more fertilizer will result in increased yields to cover costs.
Mike Hogan, of Stewart-Peterson Group from West Bend, presented timely information on grain and dairy marketing. Hogan’s message addressed the changing times in agricultural markets, stressing
that volatility is here to stay. He suggested some possible tools and resources available that will help maximize opportunities and minimize risks.
“Strategy is the key,” according to Hogan. He suggested hedge accounts to offset moves in the cash market.
The Bank of Prairie du Sac has a full line of agricultural banking products to meet an agriculture producer’s needs. For more information, contact Noel McCormick or Tommy Brennan.
A
Ask CecyWhen should I start planning for my retirement?
The short answer is now. However, generally speaking five years out is a critical time to plan by gathering information and deciding what you want your retirement to look like. Then you need to determine what income you will need. That will require you and your spouse, if you have one, to sit down and determine what will your expenses be? Once you have a firm idea, then you need to look at your assets and determine where the income will come from. Do you anticipate pension income or Social Security? Do you have an employer retirement plan or IRAs? Do you have savings ear-marked for retirement? Once you have finished your data gathering, call your financial advisor; they can walk you through the process to come up with a firm plan.
Want to know more about investments? Retirement planning? What is an IRA? How to go about “rolling over” a 401(k) from a previous employer or more?
Ask Cecy Haines, the Investment Representative at Park Avenue Investments, located in the Bank of Prairie du Sac, 555 Park Avenue, Prairie du Sac, WI 53578. This column will be a regular feature. Your questions are encouraged.
Please send your questions to:
Ask CecyBank of Prairie du SacPO Box 130Prairie du Sac, WI 53578
or e-mail them to: [email protected]
Note: Questions will be answered as time and space allows.
Got Milk?Dairy Day Friday, June 20
Wisconsin natives know dairy. It’s inherited at birth, the ability to discern sharp from mild, whole from 2%, even locally grown from imported. There’s a cheesehead in all of us. As part of Dairy Day, the Bank of
Prairie du Sac is celebrating dairy in a big way.
Join us in honoring our community’s “Hometown Heroes”, who will be formally recognized at noon (for more information about “Home-town Heroes” or to nominate someone, visit www.bankpds.com or the Bank). Enjoy lunch, courtesy of the Bank, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.,
including Culvers Frozen Custard. Lots of fun activities will be available for the kids, such as a petting zoo, jump house and games. Door prizes will be awarded throughout the day. Bring the kids for a “Got Milk” photograph, courtesy of
Sauk County Dairy Promoters.
2 3 4
Tommy Brennan, vice president, Bank
of Prairie du Sac, poses a question to
Mike Hogan, Stewart Petersen
What It Means To Be A Community BankContinued from page 1
Construction Loans Continued from page 1 Business Services With YOU in Mind
Remote Deposit and Online Cash Management Services now available
What if a business can have the best of both worlds, the personalized service of a community bank and all the bells and whistles of a mega bank? The Bank of Prairie du Sac can do that.
“We have an online product competitive with mega banks,” says Roxi Maier, vice president. “Not only does it have online banking, it has online bill pay and online cash management. Customers can transfer funds, request stop payments and set individual access rights for their staff, among other features. We also have remote deposit, enabling a company to deposit checks without leaving the office.”
The difference, however, between the Bank of Prairie du Sac and the competition, is the personal service that a hometown bank offers, low fees and the experience and stability that comes from working with one of the top rated banks in the United States. “Our business checking accounts are customized,” she says. “We work with each business to find the right balance to keep their service
optimized and their expenses low.”
Our business lending program features experienced lenders who also provide customized solutions to enable businesses to reach their goals. “We offer flexibility,” says Mike Jones, senior vice president.
The Bank of Prairie du Sac works with large multi-company customers and one-person entrepreneurial enterprises, offering a full range of services for every need. For more information about eBusiness, business checking or to learn more about our business lending program, call the Bank at (608) 643-3393.
Back Row (left to right) Gina Wyttenbach, Kim Shields, Diane Moseman, Laurie Huerth and Barbara Young. Front Row (left to right) Jackie Sliter and Roxann Grinde
Salute to Loan Services
Provide stabilityCommunity banks are some of the most highly capitalized and regulated institutions in the United States. As your local Bank, independently owned and operated, you can have confidence in our financial stability and ability to withstand challenging economic times. As an organization rated A+ in strength, part of less than 1% of banks in the United States with this distinction, the Bank of Prairie du Sac is a cornerstone on which our community can rely.
Service comes firstCommunity banks are staffed by neighbors, family and friends all trained and ready to meet your needs. At the Bank of Prairie du Sac, your satisfaction is our number one priority. Let us know how we can help you.
Locally owned, local decisionsOur customers are more than a number. We look for customized solutions to meet your needs.
State-of-the-art technology Finally, it is important to note that as a community bank customer, one need not give up the technological advances found at national financial institutions. We have the latest in banking technology and continually work to provide our customers with the latest efficiencies to improve their banking experience.
As part of the Community Banker’s ATM network, free services are available at more than 300 ATMs across the state. Our Internet banking solutions have capabilities to meet the needs not only for personal banking, but also for multi-company organizations. We’ll even help show you how.
Thank you for your business.
She describes the process as very smooth. “Between Linda and the title company, they took care of everything,” she says. “She even brought goodies to the construction crew on a hot July day.”
Beginning construction in late April, the O’Briens were living in their new home at the end of August after moving seamlessly from a construction loan to a traditional fixed rate mortgage.
They were also very impressed with the Bank’s fees. “They seem to be extremely reasonable,” says Mary Ann.
Choosing Local Can Mean Fewer HeadachesWhen Cindy Drew and her husband David of Prairie du Sac decided to build their new home, they chose a local financial institution. “We have worked with a number of other financial institutions, including nationally known mortgage firms,” she says, “but having someone trustworthy to work with the contractor and manage the draws was important to us to help the process go smoothly,” says Cindy. They chose the Bank of Prairie du Sac to finance the construction of their home in Westwynde.
Lower Overall FeesAn important factor in her family’s decision to choose the Bank of Prairie du Sac is the low overall fees for the construction loan. “The Bank of Prairie du Sac has a very competitive fee structure for construction loans,” says Butch Passehl, vice president. “We tend to be less expensive than the competition.”
Good customer serviceCindy sites prompt phone call returns from the mortgage team at the Bank of Prairie du Sac. She describes Butch, her lender, as “very patient and helpful and answered the many questions I had throughout the process.”
Overall the Drews are pleased with shopping local. “We deliberately chose to keep our money with a local bank,” she says. “We would recommend the Bank of Prairie du Sac to others—by all means.”
Know a Hometown Hero?
Nominations are being accepted as part of Community Banking Month. For more information, visit www.bankpds.com
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Prairie du Sac Office • 555 Park Avenue
lobby:
Monday - Thursday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Friday 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
drive-up:
Monday - Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Visit Us At
Celebrating 90 Years of Community Banking
VAL 24-Hour Telephone Voice Response System
(608) 643-5098 or (800) 685-9404
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www.bankpds.com
Telephone Number
(608) 643-3393
Prairie du Sac555 Park Avenue
Sauk City865 Phillips Boulevard
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Prairie du Sac, WI 53578
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Rebate Requires A Tax ReturnSome taxpayers will benefit by receiving not only tax refunds from filing their 2007 income tax returns, but also a tax rebate from Uncle Sam. Most single taxpayers will receive a rebate of $600 and married couples will receive $1,200; plus an additional $300 per child for children under age 17. Unfortunately, some high-income filers won’t qualify. Many seniors
with social security benefits of at least $3,000 can qualify even if they don’t pay any income tax. Such individual taxpayers are eligible to get at least $300 while married couples can get $600.
The IRS has recently announced they will move fast on the tax rebate checks. The checks will start going out in early May once the IRS finishes processing the millions of tax returns filed around April 15. If direct deposit is indicated on the 2007 tax return, the IRS will use that information to electronically deposit the rebate. The amount of the rebate will be computed on the basis of information contained in the 2007 Federal tax returns. The IRS will calculate the amount of the rebate check so no other action is required except filing a 2007 federal income tax return.
Thus, to receive a rebate, seniors and others who aren’t normally required to file a tax return must fill out certain sections of Federal tax form 1040A. For taxpayers filing only to receive the tax rebate, the IRS has a special way to fill out a simple version of this form. This simple tax form reports only the total amount of qualifying income from Form 1099-SSA and personal identifying information so the IRS can issue the payment. The return must be signed, dated and mailed to the designated IRS service center or can be taken to the nearest IRS office for filing.
For those who need assistance with filing for your rebate, there are volunteer organizations like VITA or AARP. You can also call the tax department at North Central Trust Company in La Crosse at (608) 782-1148 or obtain advice from other tax professionals.
www.bankpds.com • Member FDIC
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Spring 2008
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Sauk City Office • 865 Phillips Boulevard
lobby:
Monday - Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
drive-up:
Monday - Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
E-mail Address
Mailing address
P.O. Box 130
Prairie du Sac, WI 53578-0130
DARWIN F. ISAACSON, CPA, PFS has been with North Central Trust Company, located at 230 Front Street North in La Crosse, Wisconsin for 17 years and serves as Executive Vice President. North Central Trust Company offers financial and
estate planning, company retirement plans, investment accounts, trusts and other financial services. Securities are not FDIC insured, no bank guarantee, may lose value, not a deposit, not insured by any Federal Government Agency. He can be reached at (608) 782-1148 or by email at [email protected].
Continued on page 2
“Giving Back”: Bank Celebrates Community Banking Month
SHRED FEST, Friday, April 18, 2 to 5 p.m.
Bring your receipts, credit applications, insurance forms checks,
business records and anything else you want shredded!
Community Banking Month is a great time to remember the terrific place Sauk Prairie is to raise a family, shop and work. The Bank of Prairie du Sac is profiling individuals both inside and outside the Bank who “give back” to the community. Their work is part of a “Giving Back” display in the Bank’s lobby during the month of April. Come see some of the many individuals who help make our community great.
Know a hometown hero? Join us in recognizing the many individuals who help make our community great. Nominate your own “Hometown Hero” as part of Community Banking Month. For more information and a nomination form, visit www.bankpds.com or stop by the Bank. Winners will be announced at Dairy Day on Friday, June 20.
You are invited to the Bank of Prairie du Sac’s main location to celebrate Community Banking Month on Friday, April 18. Enjoy refreshments and register to win a Visa® Gift Card.
Take part in our SHRED FEST between 2 and 5 p.m. on Friday, April 18 in the parking area of our main location. Papers piling up? Junk mail getting to be too much? Don’t rip them up and throw them away. Dispose securely to protect your confidentiality. For more information, call (608) 643-3393 or visit www.bankpds.com.
Construction Loans:Ease of Use, Low Fees
With rates at 5% and an APR* of 5.831%, look to the Bank of Prairie du Sac for a great rate and a smooth process.
• Six-nine month, interest-only loan • Easy transition to long-term loan • Draws and disbursements handled locally*APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Rate effective as of March 11, 2008. Based on loan amount of $300,000 for six months, interest payable monthly on advances made. Full balance plus any unpaid interest will be due at maturity. 1-4 unit owner occupied. All rates, points and program(s) are subject to change at any time. All loans are subject to credit approval.
Construction loans with the Bank of Prairie du Sac have long been touted among customers as low in overall fees and simplifying the building process. Recently we talked with some customers to get their perspective.
Service means a lotBill and Mary Ann O’Brien have been residents of the Sauk Prairie area since 1968 and decided in early 2007 to build their dream home in Sauk City. “We were working with another bank where we had a home equity loan to buy a lot,” says Mary Ann. She and Bill informed the bank that they wanted to begin building and took a vacation planning to begin construction upon their return. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen that way. “The banker hadn’t done anything,” says Mary Ann. It was then that she called the Bank of Prairie du Sac.
Bill says they completed the loan application one day and the very next day Vice President Linda Oelke-McNamer called to tell them they were approved. “How easy can it be?” says Mary Ann.
Linda Oelke-McNamer with Mary Ann and Bill O’Brien
What It Means To Be A Community Bank by Steven C. Ploetz
As another April rolls around, I want to take a moment to reflect on Community Banking Month and what it means to be part of a
community bank. The Bank of Prairie du Sac has been part of my life for a long time. My father Charlie became CEO of the Bank in 1976. He impressed upon me the ideals that continue to be part of everything we do as a community bank.
Protect our customers’ financial well being As a community bank, we are keenly aware of the role we play in lives of families and businesses as a caretaker for their futures. We take this responsibility very seriously, taking care to provide straight-forward banking. We look out for our customers, protecting their interests and privacy at all times.
Invest in the communityThe Bank of Prairie du Sac, as a community bank, should be a source of community re-investment, helping to ensure our institutions and charitable organizations are sound. We give back every day through contributions of time, talent and treasure, and are dedicated to providing a strong future for the people of Sauk Prairie.
Continued on page 2
Ask CecyQ
Cecy Haines is a financial representative practicing in Prairie du Sac, WI. She offers financial and
estate planning, mutual funds, retirement plans, stocks, annuities, long-term care and life insurance
as a registered representative of Commonwealth Financial Network—a member firm of FINRA/SIPC.
Securities are not FDIC insured, no bank guarantee, may lose value, not a deposit, not insured by any
Federal Government Agency. She can be reached at (608) 644-2712 or at [email protected].
Farmers UpdateManaging the MarginThe Bank of Prairie du Sac presented “Managing the Margin” on Tuesday, February 26 at the Cedarberry Inn in Sauk City to more than 20 area farmers.
Dick Wolkowski, of UW Madison’s Cooperative Extension Soil Science, presented managing tillage, soil compaction and getting the most for fertilizer dollars. “Farmers need to adjust soil management to remain profitable,” says Wolkowski. “Adaptation is critical.” He discussed the different yields under varying tillage practices, and suggested limiting field traffic to reduce compaction. Finally, with the cost of fertilizer, he stated that most crops respond to first units applied and that one should weigh whether more fertilizer will result in increased yields to cover costs.
Mike Hogan, of Stewart-Peterson Group from West Bend, presented timely information on grain and dairy marketing. Hogan’s message addressed the changing times in agricultural markets, stressing
that volatility is here to stay. He suggested some possible tools and resources available that will help maximize opportunities and minimize risks.
“Strategy is the key,” according to Hogan. He suggested hedge accounts to offset moves in the cash market.
The Bank of Prairie du Sac has a full line of agricultural banking products to meet an agriculture producer’s needs. For more information, contact Noel McCormick or Tommy Brennan.
A
Ask CecyWhen should I start planning for my retirement?
The short answer is now. However, generally speaking five years out is a critical time to plan by gathering information and deciding what you want your retirement to look like. Then you need to determine what income you will need. That will require you and your spouse, if you have one, to sit down and determine what will your expenses be? Once you have a firm idea, then you need to look at your assets and determine where the income will come from. Do you anticipate pension income or Social Security? Do you have an employer retirement plan or IRAs? Do you have savings ear-marked for retirement? Once you have finished your data gathering, call your financial advisor; they can walk you through the process to come up with a firm plan.
Want to know more about investments? Retirement planning? What is an IRA? How to go about “rolling over” a 401(k) from a previous employer or more?
Ask Cecy Haines, the Investment Representative at Park Avenue Investments, located in the Bank of Prairie du Sac, 555 Park Avenue, Prairie du Sac, WI 53578. This column will be a regular feature. Your questions are encouraged.
Please send your questions to:
Ask CecyBank of Prairie du SacPO Box 130Prairie du Sac, WI 53578
or e-mail them to: [email protected]
Note: Questions will be answered as time and space allows.
Got Milk?Dairy Day Friday, June 20
Wisconsin natives know dairy. It’s inherited at birth, the ability to discern sharp from mild, whole from 2%, even locally grown from imported. There’s a cheesehead in all of us. As part of Dairy Day, the Bank of
Prairie du Sac is celebrating dairy in a big way.
Join us in honoring our community’s “Hometown Heroes”, who will be formally recognized at noon (for more information about “Home-town Heroes” or to nominate someone, visit www.bankpds.com or the Bank). Enjoy lunch, courtesy of the Bank, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.,
including Culvers Frozen Custard. Lots of fun activities will be available for the kids, such as a petting zoo, jump house and games. Door prizes will be awarded throughout the day. Bring the kids for a “Got Milk” photograph, courtesy of
Sauk County Dairy Promoters.
2 3 4
Tommy Brennan, vice president, Bank
of Prairie du Sac, poses a question to
Mike Hogan, Stewart Petersen
What It Means To Be A Community BankContinued from page 1
Construction Loans Continued from page 1 Business Services With YOU in Mind
Remote Deposit and Online Cash Management Services now available
What if a business can have the best of both worlds, the personalized service of a community bank and all the bells and whistles of a mega bank? The Bank of Prairie du Sac can do that.
“We have an online product competitive with mega banks,” says Roxi Maier, vice president. “Not only does it have online banking, it has online bill pay and online cash management. Customers can transfer funds, request stop payments and set individual access rights for their staff, among other features. We also have remote deposit, enabling a company to deposit checks without leaving the office.”
The difference, however, between the Bank of Prairie du Sac and the competition, is the personal service that a hometown bank offers, low fees and the experience and stability that comes from working with one of the top rated banks in the United States. “Our business checking accounts are customized,” she says. “We work with each business to find the right balance to keep their service
optimized and their expenses low.”
Our business lending program features experienced lenders who also provide customized solutions to enable businesses to reach their goals. “We offer flexibility,” says Mike Jones, senior vice president.
The Bank of Prairie du Sac works with large multi-company customers and one-person entrepreneurial enterprises, offering a full range of services for every need. For more information about eBusiness, business checking or to learn more about our business lending program, call the Bank at (608) 643-3393.
Back Row (left to right) Gina Wyttenbach, Kim Shields, Diane Moseman, Laurie Huerth and Barbara Young. Front Row (left to right) Jackie Sliter and Roxann Grinde
Salute to Loan Services
Provide stabilityCommunity banks are some of the most highly capitalized and regulated institutions in the United States. As your local Bank, independently owned and operated, you can have confidence in our financial stability and ability to withstand challenging economic times. As an organization rated A+ in strength, part of less than 1% of banks in the United States with this distinction, the Bank of Prairie du Sac is a cornerstone on which our community can rely.
Service comes firstCommunity banks are staffed by neighbors, family and friends all trained and ready to meet your needs. At the Bank of Prairie du Sac, your satisfaction is our number one priority. Let us know how we can help you.
Locally owned, local decisionsOur customers are more than a number. We look for customized solutions to meet your needs.
State-of-the-art technology Finally, it is important to note that as a community bank customer, one need not give up the technological advances found at national financial institutions. We have the latest in banking technology and continually work to provide our customers with the latest efficiencies to improve their banking experience.
As part of the Community Banker’s ATM network, free services are available at more than 300 ATMs across the state. Our Internet banking solutions have capabilities to meet the needs not only for personal banking, but also for multi-company organizations. We’ll even help show you how.
Thank you for your business.
She describes the process as very smooth. “Between Linda and the title company, they took care of everything,” she says. “She even brought goodies to the construction crew on a hot July day.”
Beginning construction in late April, the O’Briens were living in their new home at the end of August after moving seamlessly from a construction loan to a traditional fixed rate mortgage.
They were also very impressed with the Bank’s fees. “They seem to be extremely reasonable,” says Mary Ann.
Choosing Local Can Mean Fewer HeadachesWhen Cindy Drew and her husband David of Prairie du Sac decided to build their new home, they chose a local financial institution. “We have worked with a number of other financial institutions, including nationally known mortgage firms,” she says, “but having someone trustworthy to work with the contractor and manage the draws was important to us to help the process go smoothly,” says Cindy. They chose the Bank of Prairie du Sac to finance the construction of their home in Westwynde.
Lower Overall FeesAn important factor in her family’s decision to choose the Bank of Prairie du Sac is the low overall fees for the construction loan. “The Bank of Prairie du Sac has a very competitive fee structure for construction loans,” says Butch Passehl, vice president. “We tend to be less expensive than the competition.”
Good customer serviceCindy sites prompt phone call returns from the mortgage team at the Bank of Prairie du Sac. She describes Butch, her lender, as “very patient and helpful and answered the many questions I had throughout the process.”
Overall the Drews are pleased with shopping local. “We deliberately chose to keep our money with a local bank,” she says. “We would recommend the Bank of Prairie du Sac to others—by all means.”
Know a Hometown Hero?
Nominations are being accepted as part of Community Banking Month. For more information, visit www.bankpds.com