Dear Valued Customer:

Let me begin by thanking you for the confidence that you have had in The Bank & Trust. We know that our financial strength is important to you, especially in light of the turmoil surrounding the financial markets today.

As you may know, The Bank & Trust will soon be 100 years old. We're very proud that the conservative and sound decisions that we've made through the years have enabled us to become one of the largest banks and investment companies in West Texas and one of the strongest and best capitalized banks in the United States.

There have always been many opportunities to participate in crazy schemes that offer promises of quick and easy profit. Subprime lending is the most recent example of one of these "opportunities" and we chose to say NO. We believe that the reliability of old fashioned hard work is always preferable to quick and easy.

As a result, the loan quality of The Bank & Trust is at its historical best and our balance sheet and capital are the strongest they've ever been!

We work very hard to provide you exceptional service, competitive pricing, personal banking, and unmatched financial strength. We understand, in times like these, the safety and security of your money is at the top of your mind and that financial strength is the most important asset we can offer.

Nothing makes us more proud than when one of you says "The Bank & Trust is MY Bank". That's why we work hard to run it the way you would. We appreciate you banking with us and we stand ready to serve your banking and investing needs.

Sincerely,

Sid Cauthorn
President & CEO

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