College planning pays off
Capital Communications has unveiled a mobile banking platform for hand-held wireless devices that will allow you to do your banking wherever and whenever it is convenient. Check your account balances, make transfers or pay bills while you are on the go at capcomfcu.mobi. All mobile devices are supported* and you’ll have real-time access to your: • Account balance and history • Transfers • Bill Payment It’s fast, easy and convenient and it’s just as secure as our Connect-24 online banking platform. No confidential information will be stored on your phone or in the application. Just point your mobile device to our Web site at capcomfcu.mobi and use your member number and password to get started. If you are already using Connect-24, you don’t even need to enroll in mobile banking to start. *Data charges may apply. Check with your wireless carrier.
capcomfcu.mobi
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contents LINES
PRESIDENT/CEO’S MESSAGE By Paula A. Stopera
2 Car Buyers Helpline Finding the right car 3 Home loan options A new 30-year Home Loan 4 Convenience services Taking banking to new levels 5 Upcoming workshops From home buying to online banking, CCFCU’s workshops help you 6 College planning pays off Helping teens and parents navigate admissions and college life 8 Card program ranked high Five stars for our VISA® Credit Card 9 CAP COM Financial Services Life insurance and estate planning 10 Our Foundation Scholarship, Big Benefit Raffle, annual golf outing and Literacy Run 12 Peace of mind Checking Account Line-of-Credit On the cover: An illustration of the college journey facing many young Credit Union members. (By Mike Hayes)
Lines of Communication is published bimonthly exclusively for Capital Communications Federal Credit Union members. MELISSA FECK Vice President Corporate Services ED BEHAN Marketing Manager MELINA IACOVONE Marketing Coordinator ELI FANNING Editor LAURA L. REYNOLDS Designer WILLOW L. DANNIBLE Marketing Associate 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.
Spring always brings a flurry of paperwork and important decisions for families who have children going to college. With two college-age children, I know first-hand just how difficult the transition from high school to college can be for families – both emotionally and financially. Two years ago, we created our College Bound Program to meet the needs of many members who were turning to us for help with this process. This comprehensive program guides families step by step through this difficult and often confusing process. I am proud that we have been able to help hundreds of students and their parents prepare for college. In this issue, you’ll read about South Colonie High School graduate Alexandra Hart and her I am proud that we have been able to help parents, Kenny and Clare. They are longtime Credit Union members and a prime example of the kind hundreds of students of families we help guide through this important, and their parents exciting and, often, confusing time. prepare for college. We can help with a variety of services like college preparation for high school sophomores and juniors, assistance with the college admissions process and the admissions essay, help choosing the right school, finding the right financial aid package and workshops that prepare teens for every step of the college journey. (See page 6 for our workshop schedule.) We’ve developed convenience products designed specifically to aid young adults when they are away from home – real-time mobile banking, online banking with secure Connect-24 access, Free VISA Debit access and the ability for parents to transfer money into their account in an emergency. We have a variety of loan products at competitive rates and knowledgeable staff members that can help families choose the right products for their situation. And if college is still a few years in the future for your children, contact CAP COM Financial Services to see what you can do to start planning now. We often tell young parents, “Start Smart. Start Now.” It is never too early to start making an investment in your child’s future! Sincerely,
Paula A. Stopera President/CEO
Love your Credit Union? Tell your friends and family about us and the service we provide. Help us to grow membership in your Credit Union, today! Ask your friends to visit capcomfcu.org and click, “Join now!”
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Finding the right car Credit Union Car Sale Saturday, April 24 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Main Office 18 Computer Drive East, Albany Several local dealers will be on site to offer members their best deals on late-model previously owned vehicles.
Car Buyers Workshops No matter where you are in the car buying process, we can help. Attend one of our free Car Buyers Workshops for tips on buying your next car.
April 6 6-8 p.m. (Doors open at 5:30 p.m.) Century House Restaurant Latham, Route 9
I loved using the Car Buyers Helpline. I don’t know a thing about the car market, and I’m not very good at negotiating either. It was a big relief to know that you were expert in both of these areas, and were using knowledge on my behalf. I think that without you I would have been a lamb among hungry wolves. - Nancy H., Car Buyers Helpline customer It’s members like Nancy who inspire the team at the Car Buyers Helpline. Your Credit Union membership brings with it the advantage of the Car Buyers team of experts. We not only locate vehicles and negotiate a price on your behalf, but we can also help determine which one best suits your needs. We have the ability to “build” any new vehicle with our software. And we’ll help you understand the features that come with each model, the cost of options, and even the available color combinations. Once you’ve narrowed down your vehicle options, we will find out its availability, rebates, and purchase price or monthly lease payments. It really is that simple! You could spend hours on the Internet and in showrooms learning about different car makes and models. But as a Credit Union member, you don’t have to – we do all the work for you. Contact us today. We’ll outline how we think we can benefit you. Then you can decide. The only thing you have to lose is a chance at a great deal.
April 27 10 a.m. until noon Main Office Training Center, 18 Computer Drive East, Albany
Contact the Car Buyers Helpline (518) 458-2195 • (800) 468-5500 dpearson@capcomfcu.org
For more information or to RSVP, contact the Training Department at (518) 458-2195 ext. 3168 or training@capcomfcu.org.
carbuyershelpline.com
Dave Pearson Car Buyers Helpline
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New low-rate Home Loan
Branch Representative Priscilla Bombard with Credit Union Member Michael Lashmet
Shopping for a home equity loan Michael Lashmet began his search for a 15-year home equity loan at Capital Communications. At the end of his first meeting, Branch Representative Priscilla Bombard was confident that Michael would find what he needed at the Credit Union. “I sat with Michael at the beginning of his search,” Priscilla said. “I told him he’d be back.” Michael cited a low interest rate, the convenience of the North Greenbush Branch and attentive service as reasons he chose the Credit Union. But those weren’t the only reasons. Michael is an 18-year veteran at Defreestville Fire Department, which has 55 volunteers and covers half of North Greenbush. The fire department responds to about 400 fire and emergency medical service calls each year. They also conduct elementary school fire safety training lessons and the Credit
Union has donated savings bonds to boost those efforts. The bonds are used as incentives for children to get excited about fire safety lessons like stop, drop and roll. “The rate was good. They are convenient. The service was great. And I always appreciated that they supported the fire department,” Michael said. Mortgage and Refinance Center If you are buying a new home or looking to refinance your mortgage, call Capital Communications today. A member of our Lending Team will listen to your needs and find the best loan for you. Then, we’ll walk you through the entire process, from preapproval through closing. Apply online at capcomfcu.org, call us at (518) 458-2195 or (800) 468-5500 to set up an appointment, or start your application over the phone.
We recently unveiled a new lowrate 30-year Home Loan that is ideal for many homeowners and aspiring homebuyers. The loan features a low rate* for the first five years, which can help lower existing mortgage payments and free up cash. Use this loan to refinance an existing mortgage(s) or purchase a new home. • Loans amounts available from $10,000 to $417,000 • Five-year draw period • Capital Communications will hold and service the loan • Free weekly or bi-weekly payment options • Low closing costs** • Easy to apply, and quick turn around To apply call us today at (518) 4582195 or (800) 468-5500. * Annual Percentage Rate. Mortgages in New York State only. All Line-of-Credit loans require a minimum initial advance of $5,000 and a minimum limit of $10,000. The rate quoted is based on a loan to value up to 80% in first mortgage position. Other rates/terms available. Sample payment for 4.25% is $5.07 per $1,000. Rates are effective 3/1/10 and are subject to change without notice. **New York State Mortgage Tax and county filing fee will apply. Additional closing costs will apply to home purchases. Credit Union membership required.
Homebuyers
Workshop
If you’re thinking that this is the year to buy a new home, we’ve got the answers you need. Date: Time:
Thursday, March 25 6-8 p.m. (Doors open at 5:30 p.m.)
Location: Main Office, 18 Computer Drive East To RSVP, contact our Training Department at (518) 458-2195 ext. 3168 or training@capcomfcu.org.
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Banking convenience at your
capcomfcu.org • (518) 458-8986 Access your account wherever you are, whenever it’s convenient for you with one of our online convenience services. Whether you need to simply check your balance, transfer funds, make a payment or apply for a loan, our secure online Connect-24 and Touch-24 phone access are always available, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. NEW! Mobile Banking: Get real-time access to your account from your hand-held wireless device. There is no charge to enroll in this brand new service!* Visit capcomfcu.mobi. Touch-24: We’ve added audio response capability to our touch-tone phone account access system, making it easier for you to conduct routine account transactions at any time. See Touch-24 FAQs on page 5. FinanceWorks: A free online money management tool that can monitor all your accounts. iSaveSM: Turn your savings into something more with this online savings vehicle. Use our online calculator to let us know how much money you need and how much time you have to save for, and we’ll set up a customized savings plan for you! *Data charges may apply. Check with your wireless carrier.
How to ensure your payments are safe By Mary Radley Director of Risk Management Fraudsters are cunning and seem to always manage to find a way to commit crimes against innocent victims. We recently became aware of a forgery ring in the Capital Region that was obtaining envelopes containing bill payments that had been placed in the U.S. Postal Service mail boxes. To keep your payments safe, we suggest that you use your free Online Bill Payment service through Connect-24. You will also save time spent going to the Post Office and the expense of postage; plus you enjoy the peace of mind that your payments will arrive safely. Please contact any of our friendly Member Service Representatives for details or assistance. Or, find out how we can make it easier for you by visiting capcomfcu.org.
Important Dates MARCH 16 Credit Union Open Late At 9:30 a.m. for a company-wide staff training event 24 Annual Meeting Century House Restaurant Meeting: 5:30 p.m. complimentary reception to follow RSVP: (518) 458-2195 ext. 3113 by March 17 APRIL 24 Car Sale 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Main Office, Albany Local dealers on site. MAY 29 Credit Union Closed For Memorial Day 31 Credit Union Closed For Memorial Day
Touch-24 FAQ We hope you are enjoying the convenience and ease of our enhanced Touch-24 phone line access and new speech recognition option! Here are a couple of reminders about our new system. Please listen carefully to the menu options and speak clearly: From the main menu, you can: • Access your account by pressing 1 or saying “my accounts” • Get a summary of account balances by pressing 3 or saying “balance” • Hear rate information by pressing 4 or say “rates” To make a transfer, press 1 for account access and then press 2 or say “transfer.” If you have any questions, please feel free to call us at (518) 458-2195 or (800) 468-5500.
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*
Workshops
Capital 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 the Training Department at training@capcomfcu.org or call (518) 458-2195 ext. 3168. Unless otherwise indicated, workshops are free. Homebuyers Workshop Review the mortgage process and your options. March 25 6-8 p.m. Training Center 18 Computer Drive East, Albany
Online Bill Payment Learn how to set up and use this convenient program. May 12 6-8 p.m. Training Center 18 Computer Drive East, Albany
Car Buyers Workshop A professional car buyer will present tips on buying a new or used car. April 6 6-8 p.m. The Century House, Latham or April 27 10 a.m. until noon Training Center 18 Computer Drive East, Albany
AARP Driver’s Safety Program Driver’s safety for drivers 50 and older (AARP fee applies). June 1 & 2 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Training Center 18 Computer Drive East, Albany
AARP Driver’s Safety Program Driver’s safety for drivers 50 and older (AARP fee applies). May 4 & May 5 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Training Center 18 Computer Drive East, Albany
Money & Me Summer Camp This week-long summer camp uses a hands-on approach to teach teens ages 14-18 the basics about money and how to make it work for them. July 26 - 30 9 a.m. to noon each day Training Center 18 Computer Drive East, Albany Workshop RSVP Training Department Call: (518) 458-2195 ext. 3168 E-mail: training@capcomfcu.org Include in your RSVP: Name Address E-mail and phone number Number of attendees
*See Page 6 for College Bound workshops. *See Page 12 for upcoming workshops presented by CAP COM Financial Services.
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College Bound
The College Bound Program offers unique products, services, workshops and staff dedicated to helping families through every step of the college process from FAFSA forms to first-year orientation through graduation. “We can help you find the right loans and financial planning strategies for your needs. We help families plan and pay for college,” said College Bound Specialist Kim Donah. “I invite members and nonmembers to attend our workshops or meet with me to discuss college planning.”
The Weidner “Ed” Davis Scholarship: Scholarships are awarded annually to graduating high school seniors and undergraduates pursuing a degree. The deadline is May 1, 2010. See page 10 for more information.
Loans and scholarships The program offers Home Equity Loans and Academic Advantage Loans up to $50,000, if credit qualified. The Credit Union can also find federal loans like Stafford Loans and PLUS loans for parents and graduate students.
admissions1 consultants and partners Mimi Hajjar: 15-plus years in high school guidance and admissions at Boston University.
College Bound Specialist
Kim Donah (518) 458-2195 ext. 3106 kdonah@capcomfcu.org
Allison J. Schultz: Experienced consultant and former assistant dean at Georgetown University’s undergraduate business school.
Workshops College Experience Tuesday, March 16 | 6:30-8:15 p.m. Century House Restaurant Route 9, Latham High school seniors and parents learn about ways to pay for college and what to expect during the first year.
Dollars and Sense Budgeting (Ages 14-18) Wednesday, April 7 | 6-8 p.m. Training Center 18 Computer Drive East Teaches teens to create a budget and stick to it.
Essay Workshop (Discounted fee for members) Wednesday, July 14 and July 21 6-8 pm Latham Branch, 4 Century Hill Drive Learn how to craft a college essay that gets noticed.
For more information, contact the Training Department at training@capcomfcu.org or (518) 458-2195 ext. 3168 or RSVP online at capcomfcu.org. Doors open a half hour before each workshop. Unless noted, workshops are free.
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College planning
pays off “I think the Credit Union’s college planning has aided my college experience. Kim [Donah] made it so much easier to plan, get loans and get everything situated,” said first-year college student Alexandra Hart.
Alexandra Hart at the University of New Haven.
As a senior at Colonie Central High School, Alexandra Hart had targeted the forensic science program at the University of New Haven. By the spring of 2009, she had been accepted to the program and with her parents, Kenny and Clare Hart, began creating a financial plan. “I was clueless as to the whole process,” Kenny recalled. “Alexandra is the oldest of three kids and I didn’t have an idea about the college loan process. Capital Communications has so many useful programs and seminars out there. I thought, ‘I’d be foolish not take advantage of it.’” The family attended the Credit Union’s College Experience seminar, scheduled this year for Tuesday, March 16 at The Century House in Latham. The seminar led to a meeting with College Bound Specialist Kim Donah, who Kenny calls
“the Credit Union’s college guru.” The meeting dealt with tuition, fees, loans and payment processes and ultimately gave the family a financial plan. “I think the Credit Union’s college planning has aided my college experience. Kim made it so much easier to plan, get loans and get everything situated,” said Alexandra, who was recently elected vice president of the class of 2013 at UNH. Alexandra is one of many success stories from the Credit Union’s College Bound Program. “While figuring out how to pay for college is a major cause of stress for families, there is much more to the admissions process,” Kim said. “We counsel members on aspects of the whole college admissions process and guide them through each step.”
Ask the experts The Credit Union’s lending experts and educational consultants help families make decisions that lead to success at college and beyond. Q: Paying for college is daunting, what’s the best first step? A: Students and parents should work together to develop a college affordability plan. The plan should identify schools that are academic and financial matches. This process takes introspection and time. Many families consider state schools, schools that offer academic scholarships and schools that offer a sliding scale based on family income for financial aid packages. – Mimi Hajjar and Allison J. Schultz, admissions1 Consultants Q: How can I help my child budget money in college? A: Members can open Checking Accounts for children age 15 and up. As a joint owner, you’ll have account access to help teach basic budgeting. With online access, you can monitor college spending and make funds available in an emergency. Plus, our Young Adult Checking Accounts comes with full reimbursement of any ATM surcharge or foreign transaction fees. – Carie Sala, Youth Program Coordinator Q: My child is still very young, what can I do now to prepare? A: Once your child has a Social Security Number, you can open a Savings Account. Set up a CertifiKID or College Savings Account and use Direct Deposit to save with each paycheck. Talk to a CAP COM professional about setting up a taxadvantaged 529 Savings plan. – Kim Donah, College Bound Specialist
Earn cash for reading Children ages 4-17 can read up to five books by March 31, 2010 and receive $3 per book up to $15! Visit our Web site for more information or contact Willow Dannible at (518) 458-2195 ext. 3635 or wdannible@capcomfcu.org.
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®
Our VISA Credit Card earns top rating Capital Communications was recently awarded a five-star rating for fair and ethical credit card practices by Credit Card Connection, a Web site that provides independent analysis of credit union credit card programs. The rating system includes stars for interest rates at or below 18 percent, no balance transfer fees, late fees $25 and under, no annual fee and no penalty rate increase for late payments. In addition, the Credit Union also recently eliminated the credit card’s over-the-limit fee. “We are honored to be recognized by Credit Card Connection. And, we are always seeking ways to improve card services to benefit members. These are just a few simple ways we are doing that,” said Card Services Manager Lena M. Wilkins. A new federal law known as the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility, and Disclosure Act was enacted in May 2009. The act created new rules intended to make it easier for card holders to manage their account. For Credit Union members, these changes include a redesigned billing
statement and a consistent monthly payment due date, which will be the 22nd of each month. Go ahead, compare the card you use most to our Capital Communications VISA Credit Cards. Make the switch today!
Apply online today for a Capital Communications VISA Card at capcomfcu.org
Managing your IRA account Capital Communications makes it easy for you to manage your IRA retirement savings online with our IRA Center. Visit our Web site at capcomfcu.org and click on the “Online Services” tab. Then choose “IRA Center.” Please note: Payments from your IRA are subject to federal income tax withholding, unless you elect no withholding. You may change your withholding election at any time prior to your receipt of a payment. To change your withholding election, contact us for the appropriate form.
Withholding from IRA payments, when combined with other withholding, MAY relieve you from payment of estimated income taxes. However, your withholding election does not affect the amount of income tax you pay. You may incur penalties under the estimated tax rules if your withholding and estimated tax payments are insufficient. Please consult a tax professional for advice. If you are interested in making changes to your IRA withholding election, contact our IRA Department at (518) 458-2195 or (800) 468-5500 extension 3932.
CAP COM Financial Services
(518) 782-0209 | (800) 688-1045 | Fax (518) 782-5433 www.capcomfinancial.com
Life insurance truths Many assume that comprehensive life insurance is too expensive, yet low-cost plans are often available for a few dollars a pay period through CAP COM Financial Services. That’s just one of many truths behind common misconceptions about life insurance. Such misconceptions can leave individuals and families in difficult financial circumstances after the death of a loved one. VantisLife Insurance Company has outlined other common misconceptions and related facts. “I have enough insurance.” Most employer group policies provide coverage during the period of employment, leaving many vulnerable after employment ends. Nearly all group plans provide a limited death benefit of up to two times your annual salary, which leaves many underinsured. “I’ll worry about life insurance when I get older.” It’s often more cost-effective to buy life insurance as a young person. The cost of
Another side of estate planning
buying insurance tends to increase as one ages. Buying a policy while young and healthy assures affordable coverage if you develop a serious health condition later in life. “My spouse has a good income, even if I don’t have coverage, it wouldn’t have a major impact on my family.” It takes four to five years before financial circumstances return to normal following the death of a spouse, according to reports from widows and widowers. One to two years after a spouse’s death, half the widows and a third of the widowers were just getting by financially. “My children don’t need life insurance.” Getting coverage for children protects their insurability should they develop a health condition later in life that could drive up coverage costs. Contact CCFS at (518) 782-0209 for a life insurance consultation.
Workshopsplanning April 15 Investment Fundamentals* 10-11:30 a.m. and 5:30-7 p.m. Training Center, 18 Computer Drive East
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May 13 Roth IRA 2010: America’s newest tax break** 10-11:30 and 5:30-7 p.m. Training Center, 18 Computer Drive East
To receive an invitation or to RSVP, call (518) 782-0209. *Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the investment company, variable annuity contracts and sub-accounts carefully before investing. The prospectus contains this and other information about the investment company, variable annuity contract and sub-accounts.You can obtain fund, contract and underlying subaccount prospectuses from your financial representative. Read the prospectuses carefully before investing. **Investors should discuss tax-related strategies with a qualified tax advsior.
Estate planning ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes once you are gone. But there is another, less well-known side to the process: Appointing others to handle your financial and medical affairs if you become incapacitated. Without advance planning, a court is often left to make critical and highly personal decisions ranging from management of investments to end-of-life medical care. Fortunately, an attorney can help make arrangements that allow your affairs to be managed by people you choose. Below are two key concepts for making such arrangements. Power of attorney: A legal document that gives another person authority to act on your behalf with regard to legal, business or financial affairs if you become incapacitated. Health Care Directives: A living will is a directive presented to a doctor that explains the care you wish to receive (or avoid) if you are incapacitated by a terminal illness or serious accident. A health care proxy allows you to designate someone – a proxy – to make medical decisions for you. This material first appeared in LPL Independent Investor and was prepared by Standard & Poor’s. It is not intended to provide specific investment or tax advice. For legal questions, please consult your legal advisor.
CAP COM Financial Services - Securities and annuities products offered through LPL Financial and its affiliates, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Advisor. CAP COM Financial 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 affiliated 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
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Capital Communications Cares
Foundation Pictured are 2009 scholarship winners. In front from left, Lauren Schultz, Stephanie LoGuidice, Marissa Mastrianni, Mollie Danahy and Lisa Meyer. Standing from left are Credit Union Board Member Harold Horning, Christopher Longo, Matthew Kelly, Sean Murphy, Ryan Hotaling, President/CEO Paula Stopera and Scholarship namesake Weidner “Ed” Davis.
Scholarships help college dreams come true In 2010, the Foundation will once again select 15 local students to receive $2,500 scholarships* for college. The Weidner “Ed” Davis Scholarships add up to $37,500 in awards for members who are graduating high school seniors or are pursuing an undergraduate degree. Applicants must be 25 or younger to be eligible. To apply, visit capcomfcu.org and download the application form, or call to have an application faxed or mailed. The application calls for an essay of no more than 500 words. Submit your essay with: • A word count total printed on the essay page • A completed application form
Join us at the Literacy Run/Walk The Foundation is a Patron Sponsor for the Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County’s Literacy Run/ Walk. The event raises money to help literacy volunteers teach reading skills. We hope you’ll join us at the 2010 Run/Walk on Sunday, May 2 at the Rensselaer Technology Park, off of Route 4 in North Greenbush. Race Day 9 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 10 a.m.
Schedule Children’s Run 1 Mile Youth Race 5K Race
For more information or to register visit lvorc.org
• A copy of your tuition bill, acceptance letter or other correspondence indicating acceptance. Essay question What are the major characteristics that you think young adults need to be successful in today’s world? Deadline is May 1, 2010 Your scholarship application must be postmarked or delivered in person no later than noon on May 1, 2010. For more information contact Foundation Coordinator Bob Bascom at (518) 458-2195 ext. 3609 or rbascom@capcomfcu.org.
*To be eligible for the scholarship, you must be a member of Capital Communications Federal Credit Union when you submit your application. You must also be at least a graduating high school senior through age 25 and must be studying or planning to study for an undergraduate degree. Credit Union employees, volunteers and their family members are not eligible. Essays must be 500 words or fewer. If an essay is longer, judges will only read the first 500 words. All applications must be received by the deadline of May 1, 2010.
Save the Date Join us at Wolferts Roost Country Club in Albany on Monday, June 14 at 10 a.m. for the Capital Communications Cares Foundation 15th Annual Charity Golf Tournament. • Registration for sponsors begins March 1 • Registration for other golfers begins April 1 For more information, call Foundation Coordinator Bob Bascom at (518) 458-2195 ext. 3609
Capital Communications Federal Credit Union
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Tickets are only $25 each!
Benefit Raffle
Children of Credit Union employees at the 2009 Take Your Child to Work Day sign a thank you card for soldiers.
All proceeds benefit the Capital Communications Cares Foundation. Formed in 2003, the Foundation’s mission is to nurture our community by supporting community health and wellness; financial literacy and education; children and underprivileged families.
Tickets are available from any Credit Union Associate and online at capcomfcu.org Winners will be drawn at noon on May 13, 2010 at the Credit Union’s Main Office in Albany.*
*Winners are responsible for all applicable taxes. Ticket holders need not be present to win. You must be 18 years old or older to purchase a ticket. Seek advice from a tax advisor for tax deductibility. Void where prohibited by law. The odds of winning depend on the number of tickets sold. A maximum of 3,000 tickets will be sold. The Foundation will stop selling tickets the sooner of midnight on Saturday, May 8, 2010 or when all 3,000 tickets are sold. The $10,000 winner will be drawn first on May 13, 2010 followed by the $5,000 winner and then the five $1,000 winners. By purchasing a ticket you authorize that your name and/or photograph can be published in Credit Union and Capital Region publications. ID#GC 01-204-499-07635.
Supporting soldiers overseas Twice a year, the Capital Communications Cares Foundation reaches out to Credit Union members who are serving overseas in the U.S. military by sending gift packages. The Foundation hopes to send some of the comforts of home to these dedicated soldiers by purchasing items such as board games, coffee, music CDs, DVDs, magazines, Pop Tarts and candy to ship out in care packages. “Our hope is to make the days a little bit brighter for the soldiers serving overseas,” said Foundation Coordinator Bob Bascom. “If you have a family member who is serving in the military, give me a call or send an e-mail so that we can reach out to him or her.” Contact Bob at (518) 458-2195 ext. 3609 or send an e-mail to rbascom@capcomfcu.org to nominate a soldier for a care package.
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Unclaimed funds in New York Don’t abandon your cash.
Checking Account Line-of-Credit Protection and peace of mind A Checking Account Line-of-Credit can help you protect your Checking Account from being overdrawn. As long as you don’t go beyond your credit limit and your monthly payment is current, you’ll save yourself costly fees. This is an unsecured Line-of-Credit Loan (maximum limit is $5,000) that works with any of your Capital Communications Checking Accounts. Please note: The minimum payments on our Checking Account Line-of-Credit loans will now be based on the credit limit as follows: Line-of-Credit limit $0.00-$1,000 $1,001- $2,500 $2,501-$5,000
Minimum monthly payments $25 or the balance, whichever is smaller. $50 or the balance, whichever is smaller. $100 or the balance, whichever is smaller.
If you have any questions or would like more information about our Checking Account Line-of-Credit, please contact the Credit Union at (518) 458-2195.
Membership notification of abuse and action Abuse can involve any Credit Union employee, volunteer or member. Should an abusive action include another Credit Union member while on Credit Union property, the Credit Union may suspend the services of any party involved. As defined by the Credit Union Board of Directors, abuse includes but is not limited to, physical abuse, verbal abuse, harassment, physical damage to Credit Union property or physical damage to the property of an employee or volunteer. Should any action be taken, written correspondence will be sent to the individual’s address of record, both by certified and regular mail. For more information, contact Gary Bliss at (518) 458-2195 ext. 3107.
When was the last time you made a deposit or withdrawal? If money is left dormant in an account for more than five years, it becomes the property of the state. Reclaim your abandoned account as soon as possible! The Credit Union will be contacting members with accounts that meet the state’s requirement for abandoned property in July. We will also be contacting members with bank checks that have not been cashed in three years, as there are specific requirements for replacing the check. If you are not sure of the status of your Credit Union account, contact an associate at (518) 458-2195 or (800) 468-5500, or send an e-mail to memberpro@capcomfcu.org. Here are some tips to keep your account from becoming abandoned property. • Keep your accounts active. More than half of unclaimed accounts are dormant Savings Accounts that have had no activity for five years. Make small deposits or withdrawals every year to keep your account active. Please note: If an automatic debit or credit is the only activity on your account, it will still be considered dormant. • Take another look. Check out the convenient products and services your Credit Union offers to help make banking easy! • Keep accurate records. Record all bank accounts, stock certificates, insurance policies, utility and rent deposits. • Leave an address. Notify all financial institutions when you move. • Let someone know. Tell a family member, trusted friend or advisor where you store your records. • Cash checks promptly. Make sure you cash all checks for utility deposits, dividends, insurance, wages and any other refund you receive as soon as you can.
Employees Spotlight The Credit Union believes in recognizing employees for outstanding efforts in support of members and fellow employees. In January, the Credit Union recognized two managers with Leadership Awards and three staff members with TOP Awards. Leadership Award Julie Carnevale Branch Manager New Karner Road Branch 17 years of service
TOP Support Linda Haverly Operations Floater Main Office 30 years of service
Leadership Award Ed Behan Marketing Manager Clifton Park Branch 1 year of service
TOP Service Ricki Proctor Client Services Associate Latham Branch 9 years of service
TOP Sales Priscilla Bombard Branch Representative North Greenbush Branch 3 years of service
Member Company Spotlight In 1884, Charles Freihofer, the son of German immigrants, opened a bakery in Philadelphia. In a few years, Freihofer’s Baking Company was growing, and his brother and three sons joined the company. In 1912, they built a commercial baking plant in Troy with a 70-foot long traveling bread oven and they began leaving their fresh baked “Pan Bread” or “French Bread” on the doorsteps of Troy residents. Since then, four generations of the Freihofer family have maintained Charles Freihofer’s commitment to the freshest, purest ingredients and his dedication to his customers. Today, Freihofer’s is part of the Bimbo Bakeries USA family, the home of all the fresh baked brands America has loved for generations.
Member Discount: Use a Capital Communications VISA® Debit or Credit Card at a local Freihofer’s Bakery Outlet and get 10% off the total purchase. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount. Visit capcomfcu.org for a complete list of discounts* available to Capital Communications members.
We welcome Freihofer’s to our growing list of member companies! Spotlight your company. Contact Eli Fanning at efanning@capcomfcu.org. *Offer details vary by vendor. Effective date of program is 2/1/10. Credit Union does not endorse, recommend, or guarantee the products or services of Member Companies. Previous purchases excluded. Program subject to change or cancellation without notice.
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PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Albany, NY Permit #186 18 Computer Drive East Albany, NY 12205-1168
PHONE NUMBERS CCFCU Phone (518) 458-2195 CCFCU Toll Free (800) 468-5500 CCFCU Fax (518) 458-2261 Touch-24 (518) 458-8986 Touch-24 Toll Free (800) 634-2340
HOURS OF OPERATION Lobby: 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: Thurs & Fri: Sat:
8 a.m. - 5 p.m. 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Waterford Locations: Thurs: 2:30 - 4 p.m. Fri: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Early drive thru hours 18 Computer Drive East, Albany 4 Century Hill Drive, Latham Mon — Fri: 7:30 a.m.
BRANCH AND ATM LOCATIONS
OTHER ATM LOCATIONS
Albany (Main Office and mailing address) 18 Computer Drive East • Albany, NY 12205-1168
Clifton Park Food Court, Clifton Park Center
Clifton Park 1744 Route 9 Cohoes 219 Ontario Street Colonie 341 New Karner Road Glenmont 384 Bender Lane Latham 4 Century Hill Drive Niskayuna 582 Balltown Road North Greenbush Route 4
Waterford 260 Hudson River Road Other Surcharge free options SUM Networks COOP ATM To find the ATM nearest you, visit capcomfcu.org and choose “Locations/ATMs” on our home page. Then, click on “Branch/ATM Locator.”
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