First Citizens Bank to Open New Branch in Newport

November 5, 2001

NEWPORT, N.C.— First Citizens Bank will open a new 4,700-square-foot branch on Tuesday, Nov. 13, at the intersection of U.S. Highway 70 East and Howard Boulevard in Newport.

"This branch represents First Citizens' continued commitment to the people and businesses of Newport and Carteret County," said Area Executive Bruce Caldwell. "It will provide customers with easier access to our wide array of banking services and help us meet the financial needs of the community. For more than a century, First Citizens has been putting customers first, and we want people to know we're here to stay."

The new office will replace the existing branch at 255 Howard Blvd., which will close on Friday, Nov. 9. Seven employees from the existing branch, including Financial Services Manager Winston Reese, will work at the new office.

The public is invited to attend a grand-opening ceremony to dedicate the office on Thursday, Dec. 6, at 4 p.m. Chamber of commerce members and local elected officials are expected to join bank representatives for the ribbon cutting.

The building is constructed in a Georgian-influenced classical style with a brick and stucco exterior—similar to the design used consistently on First Citizens' new branches throughout its markets.

Customers of the branch will have the convenience of three drive-through lanes and an ATM drive-up lane. Office hours will be Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

In conjunction with its opening, the new branch will have a special promotion on checking accounts. Visitors to the branch can register to enter a drawing for two $500 savings bonds. Entrants do not need to be present to win. Winners will be drawn at 4 p.m. on Dec. 6.

First Citizens Bank has been serving customers in Newport since 1952. First Citizens has seven branches in Carteret County.

Founded in 1898, First Citizens operates 356 branches in 204 cities and towns in North Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia. Headquartered in Raleigh, the bank has $11.52 billion in assets. First Citizens Bank is committed to providing superior financial services to individual customers and small to mid-sized businesses. For more information about First Citizens Bank and its services, visit firstcitizens.com or call toll-free 1-888-FC DIRECT (1-888-323-4732).

For more information, contact:
Frank Smith
First Citizens Bank
(919) 716-4121