2003 Sterling Savings Bank annual report.

Institution: Sterling Savings Bank

Assets: $6.7 billion, serves 134 locations throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana

Agency: Hanna & Associates, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

The annual report serves as the primary corporate regulatory disclosure resource for investors. It is Sterling's annual opportunity to provide insight into the company's goals, how management presents the business, the mission, annual accomplishments, Sterling's Hometown Helpful philosophy, as well as customer feedback on the bank. The banking staff and investor relations team use the annual report as a tool for providing the "personality" of the company.

While it does not emulate the advertising or promotional materials used within the bank, it is often referred to as the tool that "tells the story of Sterling Savings Bank."