Bank offers free shredding

First Community Bank will host Shred Fest 2007 from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at 165 S. Randall Road, Elgin. This document shredding event will take place in the bank's parking lot.

Accurate Document Destruction is providing a shredding truck equipped with a television monitor so participants can watch the document shredding process. The shredding service is free, and participants can register for a chance to win a free home office paper shredder.

This shredding event, open to the public, will focus on the importance of identity protection.

"Shredding documents with personal information is one of the best ways to protect your identity," said Joyce Lueth, senior vice president and cashier. "Identity theft is a growing crime. First Community is sponsoring Shred Fest 2007 to provide an opportunity to safeguard your identity. This is one of the many ways we continue to shield our customers and community members from identity theft and fraud."

Documents brought in for shredding can include bank statements, old tax returns or any other paper documents that contain personal information. Staples and paper clips can be shredded. Anything heavier, such as binder clips, should be removed prior to shredding.

For details, call (847) 622-8800 or visit www.firstcombank.com.