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October 2010

Fall has officially arrived, and with it the unofficial start of the holiday season. While it may seem far away, you should start planning ahead now to alleviate some of the stress that accompanies this exciting and busy time of the year.

We are all more aware of every dollar we spend these days, so make a goal for this holiday season to still have money in your savings even after the decorations are put away and the first bells of 2011 ring.


Here are some tips to keep the "Ghosts of Holidays Past" from haunting you in the form of a credit card payments next year:

Develop a budget and stick to it: Write a list of everyone on your gift list and determine how much you want to spend on each person after determining what you can afford.  You should also include costs for cards, postage, gift-wrapping, holiday meals, parties, travel, and any other miscellaneous items. Bring your list when you hit the stores, as it is easy to shop impulsively during this time of year.

Shorten your gift list: Is it really necessary to buy everyone on your list a present?  Consider sending a thoughtful holiday card or e-mail, or even writing a family newsletter to update everyone about the past year.

Get creative with your gift giving: Handmade gifts and personalized coupons can be the most thoughtful gifts.  Think about your own talents as well as what the person may need.  For example: knit a blanket or sweater, bake some cookies, create a photo album of your favorite pictures, make a music tape with their favorite tunes, or give them a coupon for a special dinner at your house, babysitting time, or even a house cleaning - the list is endless.

Secret Santa/White Elephant: If you have a big family or lots of friends, suggest this fun and less expensive gift-giving method. Not only is it cost-effective, but always brings more involvement and fun!

Click below for more helpful hints for your holiday season:
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River City Bank
228 North 2nd Avenue
Rome, Georgia 30165
Telephone: 706-236-2123
Fax: 706-236-2125


OnCall 24/7 Customer Info:
706-234-6655

Lost or Stolen Debit Card:
 800-500-1044

Lost or Stolen Credit Card:
 800-854-7642

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Retail Banking
Carolyn Brearley, Branch Manager
Direct:  706-236-3541

Angie Beard, VP Private Banking
Direct:  706-236-3522
 

River City Ramblers
Sue White, Coordinator
Direct:  706-236-3554


Trust and Brokerage
Roger Goss, Senior Vice President
Direct:  706-236-3560

David Tomlin, Financial Advisor
Direct: 706-236-3561

Marketing & Community Relations
Kristen Vardy, Senior Vice President
Direct: 706-236-3540