"We're very proud to have Kevin represent us in Lake Stevens," said Jim Weddle, the firm's managing partner. "The people of this community have grown to rely on our firm for their investment needs, and I am confident Kevin will continue our outstanding tradition by providing one-on-one service to our clients."

Lockard said he is enthusiastic about taking over the office. "I joined this firm because I was impressed with its commitment to individual investors," he said. "Now I'm looking forward to meeting with the individuals here to help them meet their financial goals."

"The decision to change firms was a difficult one," Lockard said. "However, I was attracted by the opportunity to work with individuals on a one-on-one basis and help them achieve their long-range financial goals."

Edward Jones provides financial services for individual investors in the United States and, through its affiliate, in Canada. Every aspect of the firm's business, from the types of investment options offered to the location of branch offices, is designed to cater to individual investors in the communities in which they live and work. The firm's 12,000-plus financial advisors work directly with nearly 7 million clients to understand their personal goals—from college savings to retirement—and create long-term investment solutions that emphasize a well-balanced portfolio and a buy-and-hold strategy. Edward Jones embraces the importance of building long-term, face-to-face relationships with clients, helping them to understand and make sense of the investment options available today.

Edward Jones, which ranked No. 5 on FORTUNE magazine's "100 Best Companies to Work For" in 2012, is headquartered in St. Louis. The Edward Jones website is located at www.edwardjones.com, and its recruiting website is www.careers.edwardjones.com. Member SIPC.