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Banks are different than they used to be. I started in the banking business in 1973 and loaned money to farmers who have since paid off their farm loans and are successful. In 1992 we were bought out by a regional bank that I couldn't work for at all. A few of us chartered a new bank in Northern Kentucky to serve the local farm community. We have been able to serve the local farmers and realize a slim profit margin. Wherever you are located, the secret to having a good relationship with your bank, is to look for the old school bankers who remember the folks that made them what they are. Do not look for the absolute lowest interest rate for your loans. Do not look for the absolute highest rate for your cds. You will find those folks will charge you fees that cost you more in the long run, nor will they be understanding should you suffer a bad year. Please don't think I am trying to ask for your business as regulators will not allow us to lend out of our immediate area. Support your local home town bank. As an old banker, I still cater to the old farmer who's word is as good as gold. He can merely sign his name, and the loan will be repaid as agreed. He has dedicated his life to his word. If you are fortunate enough to have a local independent bank, please consider those folks. I fear for the good farmers in my community when I and other old bankers die. Perhaps, I am too sensitive to this issue, but as a farmer and a banker, or vice versa, I felt the need to comment on this issue,
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