
Bank News & Financial Literacy
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National Financial Awareness Day: Take Control of Your Financial Future
Every year on August 14, we celebrate National Financial Awareness Day – a day dedicated to understanding the importance of financial literacy. More than just numbers and spreadsheets, financial awareness affects nearly every aspect of our lives. Yet, too many people struggle to manage money effectively, leading to stress and long-term financial instability. Improving your finances doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Small, consistent actions can lead to significant changes over time. Below are some practical steps to help you get started:Read More about National Financial Awareness Day: Take Control of Your Financial Future -
Avoiding Timeshare Resale Scams
Selling a timeshare can be challenging, and scammers often exploit this difficulty. These fraudsters pose as legitimate resellers or real estate agents, claiming to have buyers or guaranteeing a sale at a great price. They use fake credentials, websites, and documents to appear credible, sometimes even having prior knowledge about the timeshare. Once they hook you, scammers request upfront payments for fees like closing costs or taxes—typically via untraceable methods like wire transfers. Once paid, they may demand additional funds for unforeseen expenses, ultimately leaving victims with no sale and having lost hundreds or thousands of dollars.Read More about Avoiding Timeshare Resale Scams -
Are You a Business?
There was a time when a “business” was almost exclusively a bricks and mortar structure—a place where employees were required to be physically present every day, and somewhere customers needed to personally visit to access the goods or services they sought. While this does not seem too long ago for the more “experienced” among us, there are now entire generations that would find that kind of world not only quite strange but also very inconvenient. Regardless of age, however, I’d venture to say that most consumers today would generally agree with that statement—at least on the convenience front.Read More about Are You a Business? -
Smart Tips to Help Your College Student Manage Their Finances
Helping your child transition to financial independence in college is a significant step. For many students, this is their first experience managing money, and the learning curve can be steep. With the right tools, guidance, and encouragement, you can set them up for success. Here are some practical tips to get started.Read More about Smart Tips to Help Your College Student Manage Their Finances -
Business Real Estate - Buy vs. Build
When it comes to expanding or launching a business, one of the pivotal decisions to make is whether to buy an existing commercial property or build a new one from scratch. Both options have their own set of advantages and considerations. Below, we explore the key factors to help you make the right choice for your business.Read More about Business Real Estate - Buy vs. Build -
Thanks For Your Service!
Wisconsin Bankers Association Recognizes New Richmond Banker Tom Mews for Board Service. Tom Mews, president of FNC Bank, New Richmond, was recently recognized by the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) for his service to the industry.Read More about Thanks For Your Service! -
Who Really Does Banking
It’s easy to assume that everyone has some sort of banking institution they use to handle their finances. Truth be told, there are about 5.6 million households (4.2%) that don’t have a bank account or access to banking services, according to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).Read More about Who Really Does Banking -
It Really Doesn't Hurt to Ask
Undoubtedly, you’ve been in a class, attended an informational gathering, or participated in an orientation meeting where the presenter requests that you ask any questions you may have while learning about the new subject or process. Invariably, you are given the assurance that “there are no dumb questions”. While I’ve proven that statement wrong on occasion, what I have found is that other folks in the room almost always do have the same question(s) you’d like to ask.Read More about It Really Doesn't Hurt to Ask -
Explore the Impact of Owning a Home vs. Renting
June is National Homeownership Month, the perfect time to reflect on how owning a home can shape your future in more ways than one. If you're weighing the pros and cons of buying versus renting, here are a few key benefits to keep in mind.Read More about Explore the Impact of Owning a Home vs. Renting -
Customer Spotlight: Sportsman's Bar & Grill
For nearly three decades, Sportsman’s Bar & Grill has served as a community hub in Somerset, offering delicious food, a welcoming atmosphere, and a slice of the town’s rich history. Located at 217 Main Street, this beloved establishment is not only the oldest business in Somerset but also one with a story as rich as its menu.Read More about Customer Spotlight: Sportsman's Bar & Grill -
Credit & Debit Card Fraud: What You Need to Know
Credit and debit card fraud has become an unfortunately common issue in today’s digital age. According to a Federal Reserve survey, debit card fraud accounted for 39% of all fraud losses in 2024. These losses can occur from physical card theft, the misuse of card information online, or techniques such as skimming. Recognizing red flags and understanding fraud methods can go a long way in protecting yourself and your financial assets.Read More about Credit & Debit Card Fraud: What You Need to Know -
The Worm in Your Apple
We live in an amazing technological age. The answer to almost any question you might have can be found in your pocket. Artificial intelligence is advancing at lightning speed and has already moved from merely taking over menial tasks to the point where its capabilities are expanding the frontiers of humanity’s knowledge daily. You can’t read an article about AI without mention of a day when it will be able to “think” for itself.Read More about The Worm in Your Apple -
The Vital Role of Small Business in Our Communities
Small businesses are the heartbeat of our local communities, driving both economic vitality and social connection. As we celebrate Small Business Month, it’s the perfect time to highlight their importance and the incredible impact they have on our lives every day.Read More about The Vital Role of Small Business in Our Communities -
The Advantages of a Commercial Construction Loan
For entrepreneurs and business owners, expanding operations often means constructing new spaces or renovating existing ones. A commercial construction loan can be the solution you need to fund these improvements while keeping your finances in check. Here are key advantages to choosing a commercial construction loan for your business:Read More about The Advantages of a Commercial Construction Loan -
Budgeting Your Way to Success
This month is Financial Literacy Month, the perfect time to reflect on your financial habits and take meaningful steps towards financial wellness. Learning to handle your finances effectively begins with a commitment to change and an openness to better habits. A solid budget or spending plan is the foundation of financial success. Why? Because it tells your money where to go instead of wondering where it went. Let's break this down into steps.Read More about Budgeting Your Way to Success -
Volunteer? Anyone? Anyone?
I’m willing to bet you’ve been in a situation where it has fallen to you to round up volunteers for a charitable cause, a school or workplace event, a sports team, etc. With credit to the economics teacher seeking a student response in 1986’s “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” (a must-see if you haven’t, worth watching it again if you have--it holds up), it can be a lonely place. It is also the most accessible way to make a difference; most everyone can do it at some level. Those who can’t participate are likely to need the services volunteers make possible.Read More about Volunteer? Anyone? Anyone? -
Community Banking Month - Community Banks vs. Credit Unions
April is Community Banking Month, a time to honor the spirit of community banks and our commitment to the neighborhoods we serve. Community Banks are more than just places to keep your money safe; we are essential to the backbone of our cities and towns, helping local economies thrive and fostering meaningful relationships with residents and businesses alike.Read More about Community Banking Month - Community Banks vs. Credit Unions -
The Benefits of Building a Home
Building a home is a milestone that offers unparalleled opportunities. Whether you're designing your first house or upgrading into your dream space, constructing your own home comes with many distinct advantages.Read More about The Benefits of Building a Home -
Small Towns Have Main Streets - SO WHAT?
Anyone who has grown up or lived in a small town knows that its main street is the center of the universe there—every location is identified by its proximity to that road: “It’s a block north of main behind the pharmacy” or “it’s on main right next to the bakery.” It’s easy to think that the concept of “Main Street” is an antiquated notion, and that it’s all about having the latest concept come to the outskirts of your town.Read More about Small Towns Have Main Streets - SO WHAT? -
Teaching Teens the Importance of Good Credit
March is National Credit Education Month—the perfect opportunity to discuss an essential life skill with your teenager: building and maintaining good credit. While likely not top-of-mind for most teens, understanding credit early can lay the foundation for financial independence in the future. Guiding them at this stage ensures they’ll enter adulthood with the tools to make informed financial decisions.Read More about Teaching Teens the Importance of Good Credit
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