Lines of Communication - Updated January/February 2010

16
of Communication January/February 2010 Volume 26 • Number 1 Lines Visit us at the Great Northeast Home Show January 29-31 See Page 5 for details.

description

Revised version of Lines of Communication, January/February 2010

Transcript of Lines of Communication - Updated January/February 2010

of Communication

January/February 2010 Volume 26 • Number 1

Lines

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Show

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2 | January/February ‘10

An extension of the home buyer tax credit could make this the perfect time for you to

buy the home of your dreams. Now, fi rst-time homebuyers and current homeowners

can apply for the tax credit if they have a contract before April 30, 2010 and close on

the home before June 30, 2010.

Capital Communications partners with a team of mortgage professionals to help

make it even easier for our members to fi nance a home and understand the available

incentives. We’ll walk you through the entire mortgage process, helping you determine

what you can comfortably spend on a home and helping you identify any potential

stumbling blocks you might have along the way. Apply online or call our Lending Team

at (518) 458-2195 or (800) 468-5500.

Watch for more information about upcoming homebuyers workshops.

a new homeYour New Year could start with

Whether you have

already started

searching for a new

home or are just

starting to think

about your options,

we can help.

January/February ‘10 | 3

LINEScontents

Lines of Communication is published bimonthlyexclusively for Capital Communications Federal Credit Union members.

MELISSA FECK Vice President Corporate Services ED BEHAN ED BEHAN Marketing Manager Marketing Manager MELINA IACOVONE MELINA IACOVONE Marketing Coordinator Marketing Coordinator WILLOW L. DANNIBLE Editor LAURA L. REYNOLDS Designer

The Supervisory Committee is the members’ representative. Please address any situations you feel were not handled to your satisfaction by the Credit Union to: Supervisory Committee, P.O. Box 11279, Albany, NY 12211-0279.

2 Home buying incentivesTax credit extended

4 Car Buyers HelplineConfused by rebates?

5 Home Loans Visit us at the Great NortheastHome Show!

6 Annual MeetingMarch 24, 2010, The Century House

7 A year of educationWorkshops planned for 2010

8 Touch-24 enhancementsNew audio response technology!

9 MoneyThis year, resolve to save more

10 Youth SavingsIt’s never too early to start saving

11 Young AdultsCollege timeline

12 CAP COM Financial ServicesWe do taxes!

13 Our FoundationMaking the holidays brighter

14 & 15 TOP employeesAnnual employee awards

On the cover Congratulations to our 2009 TOP Employees. From left are Bob Bascom, Kim Donah, Paige Clawson and Joanne D’Ambrosio. See page 15 for more about these honored employees.

Dear Members,

With the holiday season behind us, you may be looking at 2010 with some trepidation. While the economy has rebounded from a year ago, we will continue to face challenging times ahead. If you are overwhelmed by bills and your cash fl ow seems to fall short each month, please remember that we are here to help. A Five-Minute Financial Checkup – even over the phone – may provide the options you need to consolidate debt or reduce your monthly bill payments. Or, talk with us about refi nancing your mortgage or car to a

better rate or term to help you save money each month. Our staff is carefully trained to help you make the most informed decisions and to help position you and your family for a successful future. I am happy to announce that we will welcome mortgage professionals to our team early in 2010. Th e expansion of our lending capabilities is just one example of our commitment to provide our members with unmatched service. We work hard to design

products and programs that do more than meet your needs; they make a positive diff erence in your life. Here are some examples: • College Bound will help guide your family through the college planning and application process. Our Young Adult Checking Account (ages 15-22) off ers free ATM access worldwide.* • Th e professionals at Car Buyers Helpline can save you time and money on your next car purchase – from helping you choose the right car for your needs to negotiating the best price possible. Our staff ’s years of experience will ensure you are aware of all possible rebates and incentives. Plus, we’ll do all of the legwork for you! • Our advisory team at CAP COM Financial Services can help you with some of your most complicated fi nancial planning, including retirement, estate planning, life insurance, long-term care, tax planning and investing. Th ey even work Saturdays by appointment for your convenience! See Page 12 for more information. Whatever your needs are in 2010, we are ready to help. You know you will receive the best service possible from people who live and work in your community and truly care about you and your family. Give us a call and we’ll get started.

Sincerely,

Paula A. StoperaPresident/CEO

*Capital Communications will reimburse members with a Young Adult Checking Account (ages 15-22) for any ATM surcharge or foreign transaction fee. Members ages 15-17 must have a parent/guardian as a joint owner.

PRESIDENT/CEO’S MESSAGE

By Paula A. Stopera

We like to say “our service says it all” and our members

know they can trust that promise as

members have for the past 57 years.

4 | January/February ‘10

One of the biggest challenges of buying a new car can be understanding what manufacturer rebates you can take advantage of and how that could change the price of the car. You may see an advertisement in the paper for a vehicle with multiple rebates but, when you go to the dealership, you may end up paying more for the car than you expected. Most auto makers offer multiple rebates and you may or may not qualify for them all. In addition, some manufacturers offer cash incentives to the dealers and you most likely won’t even be aware of them. An incentive for the dealer to sell the car, dealer

cash can be used to reduce the price of the car, sweetening the deal for the consumer. But, it can also be kept by the dealer. The Car Buyers Helpline team is your personal car buying consultant. We’ll do the research for you and help you identify qualifying rebates. We’ll give you the bottom line numbers so it’s easier for you to understand. From helping you choose the right car to negotiating the deal for you, we’ll be there for you every step of the way. Give us a call today; we will be happy to answer any questions youmay have.

Confused by manufacturer rebates?

Thank you, Car Buyers Helpline!“I was completely impressed with how prompt you were to always return my calls and how patient you were EVERY time I would change my mind. You were always very informative and very honest, I appreciated that! … I would ABSOLUTELY use the Car Buyers Helpline again and without hesitation!” – Alexis M.

4 | January/February ‘10

The complete home loan package

Your loan is more than just money; it’s your dream home, your renovation, your college tuition or the key to your fi nancial freedom. So, when you come to us for a loan, we do more than help you with your application. We’ll help you fi nd the right loan option and walk you through the process.

• Refi nance to lower your rate or shorten your term and save money over the life of your loan• Unique four-year draw period on Home Equity Loans • Free automatic weekly or biweekly payment options • Minimal closing costs* – you may not even need to come in to a branch to close• Apply online, in person or over the phone

Your new home purchase or renovation project could qualify for a tax credit under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Visit our online Resource Center to learn more about eligibility requirements. Click on the “Personal” tab and then “Resource Center.”

* New York State Mortgage Tax and county fi ling fee will apply. Additional closing costs will apply to home purchases.

January/February ‘10 | 5

Join Capital Communications and HGTV designer Vern Yip at the Great Northeast Home Show

The host of HGTV’s popular program Deserving Design and one of the judges on HGTV Design Star, Vern Yip will present two seminars on “Design Trends” at the 30th anniversary of the Great Northeast Home Show presented by the Times Union. We are proud to be part of a weekend featuring 500 exhibits and more than 50 educational seminars for existing and new homeowners. Visit timesunion.com for more information on how you can enter to win a design consultation with Vern! Or, enter in any of our branches for a chance to attend a “members only” meet and greet with Vern. Visit our booth at the home show and watch for more information on our Web site or in the Times Union newspaper about three seminars to be presented by Capital Communications during the Home Show.

Homebuyers SeminarLet us help demystify the home buying process in today’s market – from mortgage prequalifi cation to closing. These tips will help you get into your dream home!

Home Equity SeminarWhether you’re looking to remodel, pay for college, consolidate debt or tighten your budget, the equity in your home can put you in a better fi nancial position. Learn how!

Mortgage Refi nance SeminarWhy refi ? Refi nancing is still a great option for homeowners. If you’re still not sure if it’s worth it or where to begin, we can help you compare rates, terms and repayment options so you can maximize how your home can work for you.

Design

a better financial picture

January 29-31 Empire State Plaza Convention Center Albany, NY. Fri. 4-9 p.m.Sat. 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.Sun. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

6 | January/February ‘10

Th e Credit Union will hold its 2010 Annual Meeting at Th e Century House on Wednesday, March 24. Th e Business Meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m. followed by a complimentary reception. Please RSVP to (518) 458-2195 ext. 3113 by March 17. Elections for three open seats on the Credit Union Board of Directors will be held that evening. Th e Nominating Committee has put forward three candidates for the open three-year terms. (See candidate bios below). Other nominations can be made by petition and must be submitted by February 12, 2010. Petitions require signatures of one (1) percent of the Credit Union’s membership or a

maximum of 500 signatures. If you would like to be nominated by petition, please submit a signed certifi cate stating that you are agreeable to the nomination and will serve if elected. You must also provide a resume or biography including your education and experience. To obtain a blank certifi cate, call (518) 458-2195 ext. 3247 or visit capcomfcu.org. Nominations will not be accepted from the fl oor during the Annual Meeting and there will be no balloting if there is only one nominee for each vacant position. Th e nominations received from the Nominating Committee and from petition will be posted in the Credit Union’s offi ces and on our Web site at least 35 days before the Annual Meeting.

Dan Johnson has been a member of the Credit Union since 1967 and has served on the CCFCU Board of Directors since March 1993. He has served on the Supervisory Committee along with numerous other committees and is a longtime board member of the NYS Telephone Credit Union Association. Johnson retired from Verizon in 2000 after 37 years of service. He was active with the Boy Scouts of America and is an avid golfer.

Jim Thomas has been a member of the Credit Union since 1974 and has served on the Board of Directors since March of 1988. He recently retired from Verizon after 32 years of service. He has served on the Supervisory Committee and as chairman of the CAP COM Financial Services Board. Also a board member of “Rebuilding Together,” and a former VFW Post Commander, he volunteers with the American Heart Association and has run marathons in every U.S. state.

2010 Annual MeetingWednesday, March 24 | The Century House Restaurant, Latham, NY

Paula A. Stopera joined the Credit Union in 1980 as a Membership Offi cer and was promoted through the organization to become President/CEO in 2004. She also serves as Chairperson of the Capital Communications Cares Foundation. She is a member of the New York State CEO Council and the New England Telephone Credit Union Advisory Council, is President of the New York State Telephone Credit Union Association and is a trustee for the New York State Credit Union League’s Legislative and Political Action Committee. She received the 2008 Outstanding Professional Award from The Credit Union Association of New York and is one of the Albany-Colonie Chamber’s Women of Excellence.

Editor’s note: Paula Stopera’s bio in the printed version of the Lines of Communication had an incorrect reference that has been corrected here. Paula is the President of the New York State Telephone Credit Union Association.

January/February ‘10 | 7

WorkshopsCapital Communications has planned several informational workshops for 2010 on topics that matter to you. Doors open a half hour before each workshop; reservations are required. For more information or to RSVP contact Candace Stazio at [email protected] or call (518) 458-2195 ext. 3168. Unless otherwise indicated, workshops are free.

AARP Driver’s Safety ProgramDriver’s safety for drivers 50 and older (AARP fee applies).May 4 & May 5June 1 & 2August 24 & 259 a.m. - 1 p.m.Training Center, 18 Computer Drive East, Albany

Basic Budgeting for AdultsEstablish a budget and learn how to stay within those parameters.January 14February 9October 76-8 p.m.Training Center, 18 Computer Drive East, Albany

Budgeting Youth – Money & Me Summer CampWeek-long, hands-on workshop for teens (ages 14-18) about money management.July 26-309 a.m. until noonTraining Center, 18 Computer Drive East, Albany

Car Buyers WorkshopA professional car buyer will present tips on buying a new or used car.April 6, 6-8 p.m.The Century House, LathamApril 27, 10 a.m. until noon Training Center, 18 Computer Drive East, Albany

College PrepA guide for high school sophomores and juniors who are just starting to prepare for college.February 235:30-6:30 p.m. College Fair6:30-8:45 p.m. WorkshopCentury House, Route 9, Latham

College ExperienceHigh school seniors learn what to expect in the fi rst year of college.March 166:30-8:15 p.m.Century House, Route 9, Latham

College AdmissionsTips for high school seniors and their parents about the admissions process.October 56:30-8:30 p.m.Century House, Route 9, Latham

College Bound Essay WritingHigh school seniors will learn how to craft a successful college admissions essay.July 14July 21September 14September 21September 28October 13October 20October 27November 3November 106-8 p.m.Latham Branch($60 discounted fee applies)

Dollars & Sense Budgeting: High School Edition A budgeting class for teens ages 14-18.April 7October 266-8 p.m.Training Center, 18 Computer Drive East, Albany

Dollars & Sense Budgeting for Young Adults A budgeting class for young adults ages 18-22.June 8September 236-8 p.m.Training Center, 18 Computer Drive East, Albany

Fraud and Internet ScamsProtect yourself from fraud and online scams.Watch for more information

Homebuyers WorkshopReview the mortgage process and your options.Watch for more information

Online Bill PaymentLearn how to set up and use this convenient program.February 3May 12September 286-8 p.m.Training Center, 18 Computer Drive East, Albany

See Page 12 for upcoming workshops presented by CAP COM Financial Services.

January/February ‘10 | 7

Mark your calendar for these upcoming workshops!Basic Budgeting for Adults – January 14Online Bill Payment – February 3 College Prep Workshop – February 23College Senior Night – March 16

8 | January/February ‘10Capital Communications will unveil enhanced Touch-24 automated phone access on January 6, 2010 allowing you to access your account with speech recognition capabilities. Our phone numbers will not change, but when you call Touch-24 beginning January 6, you’ll be given the option to proceed using touch-tone or speech. Here are just a few tips to help you navigate the system.

Touch-tone accessTo access Touch-24 via touch-tone: choose 1 and then enter your account number and PIN. As you use the touch-tone system you’ll be prompted to fi nd what you are looking for with menus. Please note: there is no longer an “expert mode” that relies on you knowing a specifi c transaction code to continue. Th e enhanced system works similarly to the former “menu mode.”

Tips:• Access your account – Press 1 in the Main Menu and then 1 to “inquire about your account.” You’ll be able to choose the account you’d like to inquire about.• Press 8 to repeat menu options.• Press 9 to return to the previous menu.• Press 0 to transfer to a member service representative.

Speech RecognitionTo access Touch-24 via speech recognition, just wait for the system to proceed. Choose a quiet place to conduct your transactions and speak clearly. Please note: Th e system will need to confi rm your correct member ID before allowing you to enter your PIN. Once you have entered the voice system, you will be able to follow menu prompts or go directly to the option you need based on voice commands.

Here are some common voice commands: “Agent” – transfer to a member service representative during regular business hours “My Accounts” – inquire about your account “Go Back” – return to previous menu “Help” “PIN Change” “Repeat” – repeat the menu “History” – check account history “Balance” – check account balance

Visit our Web site or any branch for a complete user’s guide.To use Touch-24, simply call (518) 458-8986 or (800) 634-2340. Access your account 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Justsaythe word!

January/February ‘10 | 9

Member noticeEffective February 1, 2010, we will make the following changes to our Check Hold Policy:

• Checks with an aggregate balance of $2,000 or more, deposited on accounts that are open 31 days or longer will be subject to a check hold.

Checks with an aggregate balance of $2,000 or more will be subject to a two-day hold with $100 available on the next business day, and up to $4,900 available after two business days. Any remaining balance over $5,000 will be held for an additional fi ve business days.

• Accounts where the previous 90-day relationship balance is less than $100 will be subject to a seven-business-day check hold with $100 available on the next business day and the balance available after seven business days.

If you have any questions, please contact the Credit Union at (518) 458-2195.

Debit Card HoldersIf you do not enter a PIN, transactions may be processed as either a VISA Debit Card transaction or a transaction on the NYCE or CO-OP networks. Merchants must provide you with a clear method of choosing to make a VISA Debit Card transaction if they support this option. Certain protections and rights applicable only to VISA Debit Card transactions as described in your cardholder agreement may not apply to transactions processed on the NYCE or CO-OP networks.

If your New Year’s resolution was about reining in your spending, we have some tools that can help. Create a budget and stick to it with FinanceWorks in Connect-24, our home banking platform. Powered by Quicken, this unique tool can help you manage your spending and give you a big picture look at where your paycheck goes. Just click on the FinanceWorks tab in your Account Access screen to get started. Th e program will automatically pull in your Credit Union accounts and you can add information for your accounts at more than 5,000 fi nancial institutions. Th e program creates charts to show you exactly where your money is being spent, anticipated expenses and how closely you’ve stuck to your budget. Bring your debt in focus with a Five-Minute Financial Checkup. A Credit Union representative can take a look at your account to make sure you have the right products for your situation. A simple refi nance could help save you money each month. If you want to see what your debt looks like before you call us, use our online fi nancial checkup tool. Click on the “Personal” tab, then click on “Resource Center.” What are you iSaving for? If you have a long-term savings goal in mind, use our online calculator to determine how much you need to save each month to meet it. If you fi nd a scenario you can commit to, click iCommit and we’ll set an iSaveSM up for you! Th e money will be deposited automatically into your iSaveSM using direct deposit, so you save it before you have a chance to spend it. We have a variety of savings products that can help you regain control of your fi nances. Let us know how we can help you meet your goals!

“This year I will save more”

If you use your VISA® Debit Card at KeyBank ATMs, you will notice a surcharge of up to $3 in most cases. When prompted, you will need to accept the charge from Key-Bank at the ATM in order to proceed with your transaction. Capital Communications is committed to offering surcharge-free access for our mem-bers at KeyBank ATMs. We will reimburse KeyBank’s fee each night so that you can continue to use these ATMs without being charged a surcharge. Alternatively, you can use your VISA Debit card at more than 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs in New York State including ATMs owned by Capital Communications and those in the SUM and COOP networks. One may be more convenient than you realize! Visit capcomfcu.org and click on “Locations/ATMs” and choose “Branch/ATM loca-tor” to fi nd the one that is closest to where you live or work. If you have questions or would like more information, give us a call at (518) 458-2195.

KeyBank ATMs are still surcharge free

10 | January/February ‘10

Reading ProgramRead up to fi ve books before April 2, 2010 and receive $3 per book up to $15! Submit the name of the book and a picture or essay signed by your parent or guardian by April 2.

Ages 4-8: draw a scene for each book Ages 9-12: 50-word summary per book Ages 13-17: 100-word summary per book

Visit capcomfcu.org for more information or contact Willow Dannible at (518) 458-2195 ext. 3635 or e-mail [email protected].

Our spring workshops can help you prepare for college. For more information or to RSVP, contact Candace Stazio at (518) 458-2195 ext. 3168 or [email protected].

It’s never too earlyto start savingWhether your child is 12 days or 12 years old, it’snever too early to start saving for college. Th e sooneryou start saving money to help pay for this majorexpense, the more money you’ll be able to rely onwhen the time comes. Once you receive a Social Security Numberfor your newborn, you can open a Youth Savings Account at Capital Communications. Set up aCertifi KID with direct deposit and save a manageable amount from each paycheck. A little bit really adds up. Without considering dividends, if you save $25every two weeks, you’ll have put aside more than$10,000 after 16 years. Use a 529 Plan to help your savings grow as themarket continues to rebound. Save for a child, grandchild or even yourself. Call us to fi nd outhow you can get started.

For your education

College Prep WorkshopFebruary 235:30-6:30 College Fair6:30-8:45 WorkshopCentury House Restaurant, Route 9, LathamFor high school sophomores and juniors and their parentsProvides guidance on choosing the right school, preparing the application and interview process and fi nding funding.

College ExperienceMarch 16, 6:30-8:15 p.m.Century House RestaurantRoute 9, LathamFor High school seniors and their parentsLearn what to expect in your fi rst year of college and college funding options.

Dollars and Sense Budgeting (ages 14-18)April 7, 6-8 p.m.Training Center, 18 Computer Drive EastTeaches teens how to distinguish between wants and needs as well as create a budget and stick to it.

Dollars and Sense Budgeting (ages 18-25)June 8, 6-8 p.m.Training Center, 18 Computer Drive EastBudgeting tips for young adults as they make the transition to fi nancial independence.

Art GoedekeScholarship Deadline: February 17Members through age 25 with plans to pursue an undergraduate degree in Computer Science/Information Technology can apply for the Art Goedeke Scholarship. Answer the following question with an essay of 500 words or fewer and send it with:• Completed entry form (available online)• Copy of your college application or a tuition bill

“Social networking has become a popular method of communication for young adults. How do you think it will change the way we interact with each other?”

Mail your application to: CCFCU, 18 Computer Drive East, Albany, NY 12205, attn: Art Goedeke Scholarship. For more information, contact Carie Sala at (518) 458-2195 ext. 3671.

Davis ScholarshipWatch for more information about our $2,500 Weidner “Ed” Davis Scholarships. Deadline: May 1, 2010.

January/February ‘10 | 11

Junior Year: The process begins

February 23 College Prep Workshop

April – Aug College Visits

July – Nov College Essay Writing WorkshopsJuly 26 - 30 Money & Me Summer Camp

Senior Year: The homestretch

October 5 College Admissions Workshop

January Submit FAFSA as early as possible

March 16 College Experience Workshop

April Financial planning packages offered

Apply for the Weidner “Ed” Davis Scholarship

May Choose a college High School Graduation!

May – Aug Secure funding

August College begins

Let us know how we can help! Contact College Specialist Kim Donah at (518) 458-2195 ext. 3106.

Teen product checklist

Young Adult Checking Account*

VISA® Debit Card

Young Adult VISA (if credit qualifi ed)

Connect-24 home banking

iDeposit-24**

*Members ages 15-17 must have a parent/guardian as a joint owner.**Must meet eligibility requirements. Some restrictions and limits may apply.

Enjoy the journey.The transition from high school to college begins early junior year. We have

a dedicated staff that is ready to help your family with College Bound, a

comprehensive program of products and services available to our members.

College Bound includes admissions counseling services, FAFSA preparation,

scholarships, student loans and also workshops on essay writing, college

preparation, college admissions, the college experience and budgeting. Let us

know how we can help! Contact College Specialist Kim Donah at (518) 458-

2195 ext. 3106.

12 | January/February ‘10

CAP COMFinancial Services (518) 782-0209 | (800) 688-1045 | Fax (518) 782-5433

www.capcomfi nancial.com

You might not know that CAP COM Financial Services, LLC off ers low cost tax preparation services. In fact, we prepare hundreds of personal income tax returns for Credit Union members each year. Our Tax Division is staff ed to off er year-round tax services to all Credit Union members, because tax questions, tax amendments and notices from the IRS can come at any time of year. Let the tax professionals at CAP COM Financial Services help you get all the deductions you are entitled to and give you advice that can help you lower

next year’s tax bill. Once your return is completed, we’ll fi le it for you, using IRS E-fi le®, making the process even easier.Our Tax Division is conveniently located at 21 Aviation Road, Albany NY 12205, directly behind the Main Offi ce of Capital Communications. We can also accommodate Credit Union members who do not live in the Albany area through the mail and with a scheduled phone appointment. For more details or to schedule an appointment with one of our qualifi ed tax professionals call (518) 782-0209or (800) 688-1045.

Let us help you with your taxes

LPL Chief Market Strategist gives economic update

Upcoming Workshops

February 4“Roth IRA 2010: America’s newest tax break”10-11:30 a.m. and 5:30-7 p.m. Training Center, 21 Aviation Drive, Albany

March 4“21st Century Retirement:Strategies for managing retirement income.”10-11:30 a.m. and 5:30-7 p.m. Training Center, 21 Aviation Drive, Albany

To receive an invitation or to RSVP, call (518) 782-0209.

Jeff rey Kleintop, Senior Vice President and Chief Market Strategist for LPL Financial, provided an economic update in November. Nearly 300 Emerald Circle and Investors’ Advantage members attended our Fall Emerald Circle Luncheon at Wolferts Roost Country Club. “We don’t believe the powerful market performance of the last eight months is over just yet but, looking forward, we expect a challenging second half of 2010,” Kleintop said. Kleintop is responsible for market forecasting and helping to defi ne the tactical allocation of the advisory platform at LPL Financial. For more information about our Emerald Circle Group, call us at (518) 782-0209.

At left, CAP COM Advisors stand with Jeffrey Kleintop at a luncheon for Emerald Circle clients. From left are James A. Faranda, Chief Investment Offi cer John M. Shartrand, Jeffrey Kleintop Chief Market Strategist for LPL Financial, Steven A. Massey and Herb Warden. At right, Kleintop speaks during his presentation.

CAP COM Financial Services - Securities and annuities products offered through LPL Financial and its affi liates, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Advisor. CAP COM Investment Services is a division of Capital Communications Federal Credit Union. CAP COM Financial Services and Capital Communications Federal Credit Union are not registered broker dealers and are not affi liated with LPL Financial. Financial planning, tax preparation and insurance services offered through CAP COM Financial Services, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor. Not NCUA Insured May Lose Value No Credit Union Guarantee

January/February ‘10 | 13

It’s all about givingWhile 2009 was diffi cult for many of our neighbors and friends, the Capital Communications Cares Foundation remained committed to providing memories along with fi nancial and in-kind assistance. Our holiday giving eff orts helped families in need experience the magic of the season. Th e Foundation has provided a healthy, traditional Th anksgiving dinner to more than 1,000 families since it was established in 2003. In 2009, 150 baskets were delivered to area organizations for distribution to families in the Capital Region, including St. Catherine’s Center for Children, Marillac Family Shelter, Visiting Nurses Association, St. Paul Center for Women and Children, Albany HeadStart and to the City of Cohoes. In December, visits to Marillac Family Shelter and also the Commission on Economic Opportunity’s Stepping Stones I School in Lansingburgh ended the Foundation’s year of giving. Children at Marillac Family Shelter received a visit from Santa and gift courtesy of the Foundation. Santa also paid a visit to Stepping Stones I School and the Foundation donated 200 winter coats for children at the school. We are proud to have reached a milestone in 2009, with more than $1 million in monetary and in-kind donations to Capital Region organizations and families in need. To fi nd out how you can help us make a diff erence, visit capcomfcu.org and click on the “Foundation” tab.

FoundationCapital Communications Cares

14 | January/February ‘10

TOP ServiceLynn KrugMain Offi ce Greeter14 years of service

I am more careful with my expenditures. I now plan meals for each day when I go grocery shopping, saving extra trips that would put additional items in my cart.

TOP SupportDave DeeringIS Operations Administrator22 years of service

Coupons, coupons, coupons! In this economy using coupons is a no-brainer. Conservatively, I feel my family saves $5,000-$10,000 a year using coupons, which is almost like having a part time job.

TOP ServiceJoanne D’AmbrosioTraining Specialist 14 years of service

It hasn’t been easy, but fi guring out what is a “NEED” versus what is a “WANT” is a good start!

Employees in the SpotlightHow have you

been able to

STRETCH your

budget in thiseconomy?

The Credit Union believes in recognizing employees for their outstanding efforts on behalf of our members and staff. Managers are recognized with the Leadership Award and staff members are recognized with a TOP Award.

TOP SupportJean DudleyStrategic Research AnalystSix years of service

I pay more attention to my spending everyday and use FinanceWorks to track how I’m doing.

TOP SalesCori MilbyBranch RepresentativeNine years of service

I bring my breakfast to work and no longer have a tab at the local bagel shop.

Visit capcomfcu.org and tell us how you’ve stretched your budget by January 30, 2010. We’ll post the best on our Web site and let members choose their favorite. If your idea wins, we’ll deposit $50 into your account. See our Web site for more details.

Whataboutyou?

Mobile banking coming soon! You asked for it and we listened. Watch for more information online and in the next

newsletter about our new mobile banking platform, allowing you to do your banking

on your hand-held wireless device. It’s one more way we can make it easier for you to

do your banking when and where it’s most convenient for you.

January/February ‘10 | 15

Best Place to WorkCapital Communications is proud to have been named one of The Business Review’s “Best Places to Work” in the Capital Region for the sixth consecutive year. “We strive to create a corporate culture that encourages productivity and a good work-life balance and this award lets us know that we’ve been successful,” said Capital Communications President/CEO Paula Stopera. “By taking care of our employees’ needs fi rst, we can allow them to focus on our members. Our service says it all.” The award acknowledges the Credit Union’s achievements in creating a positive work environment that attracts and retains employees through a combination of benefi ts, working conditions and company culture. The Credit Union has been recognized for all six years that The Business Review has sponsored the award and has been designated a Circle of Excellence Company.

JANUARY1 Credit Union ClosedNew Year’s Day2 Credit Union Reopens

18 Credit Union ClosedMartin Luther King Jr. Day

19 Credit Union Reopens

FEBRUARY15 Credit Union ClosedPresidents Day

16 Credit Union Reopens

Calendar

of Events

Statutory Lien NoticeExcept as otherwise provided by federal law, Capital Communications Federal Credit Union has the right to impress and enforce a statutory lien against a member’s share and dividends in the event the member fails to satisfy a fi nancial obligation to the Credit Union. The Credit Union has the authority to enforce this statutory lien right without further notice to the member. A member’s fi nancial obligations include, but are not limited to, outstanding loan balances, NSF (insuffi cient funds) checks and related fees.

Each year, Capital Communications recognizes exemplary employees who epitomize the essence of our Credit Union’s culture and commitment to our members. We are proud to recognize these TOP performers for 2009.

Kim made an incredible impact on many families during 2009 with her extensive work on the College Bound Program. Her sincere interest in every member makes Kim someone our members want to work with over and over again!

Credit Union staff vote by secret ballot to honor one employee for exemplifying the Credit Union’s high service standards. Paige’s commitment to the members illustrates how she goes above and beyond her standard responsibilities. She is a true role model for providing top notch service.

Employee of the YearPaige Clawson

TOP SalesKim Donah

Bob has provided extensive project assistance to several departments during 2009 while continuing to lead the Foundation’s community eff orts. His enthusiasm, dedication to excellence and reliability is greatly recognized.

Joanne provides service with standards that never waiver. Her experience in operations combined with her execution of training programs have assisted the Credit Union in achieving high scores for employee product knowledge, which is regarded highly by members and employees alike.

TOP ServiceJoanne D’Ambrosio

TOP SupportBob Bascom

2009 TOP Employees

16 | January/February ‘10

PHONE NUMBERSCCFCU Phone (518) 458-2195CCFCU Toll Free (800) 468-5500CCFCU Fax (518) 458-2261Touch-24 (518) 458-8986Touch-24 Toll Free (800) 634-2340

HOURS OF OPERATIONLobby:Mon — Wed: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.Thurs & Fri: 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.Sat: 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Drive Thru:Mon — Wed: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.Thurs & Fri: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.Sat: 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Waterford Branch:Thurs: 2:30 - 4 p.m.Fri: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Early drive thru hours18 Computer Drive East, Albany4 Century Hill Drive, LathamMon — Fri: 7:30 a.m.

BRANCH AND ATM LOCATIONS

Albany (Main Offi ce and mailing address)18 Computer Drive East • Albany, NY 12205-1168

Clifton Park 1744 Route 9

Cohoes219 Ontario Street

Colonie 341 New Karner Road

Glenmont 384 Bender Lane

Latham 4 Century Hill Drive

Niskayuna 582 Balltown Road

North Greenbush Route 4

OTHER ATM LOCATIONS

Clifton Park Food Court, Clifton Park Center

Waterford260 Hudson River Road

Other Surcharge free optionsSUM NetworksKeyBank* ATMs in New YorkCOOP ATM

To fi nd the ATM nearest you, visit capcomfcu.org and choose “Locations/ATMs” on our home page. Then, click on “Branch/ATM Locator.”

*CCFCU will reimburse members within 24 hours for all

surcharge fees at KeyBank ATMs.

capcomfcu.org

PRSRT STDU.S. Postage

PAIDAlbany, NYPermit #186

18 Computer Drive East Albany, NY 12205-1168

Happy New Year 2010!

The complete home loan package See Page 4