lines of communication - nov/dec

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Lines of Communication November/December 2010 Volume 26 • Number 6 Inside: Helping first-time homebuyers | 2 Our members call us CAP COM. Now, it’s official! | 7 opens! Brunswick Branch Our new Brunswick Branch team is ready to help members | 6 Priscilla Bombard Branch Associate Robin Longo Branch Associate Mary Lou Doney Branch Associate

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Page 1: Lines of Communication - Nov/Dec

Linesof Communication

November/December 2010 Volume 26 • Number 6

Inside:

Helping first-time homebuyers | 2

Our members call us CAP COM. Now, it’s official! | 7

opens!Brunswick Branch

Our new Brunswick Branch team is ready to help members | 6

Priscilla Bombard Branch Associate

Robin Longo Branch Associate

Mary Lou Doney Branch Associate

Page 2: Lines of Communication - Nov/Dec

Lynn Huba said to her husband, Walt: “We should look into refinancing.” That conversation led to action as mortgage interest rates recently neared record lows. The couple’s refinancing strategy reduced monthly costs, which helped pay for a stunning kitchen makeover. “The CAP COM refinancing plan left us with about the same monthly payment and brought our dream kitchen to life. It was a no-brainer,” Lynn said. The Hubas rolled their previous mortgage and the cost of the kitchen renovation into a low-rate, 15-year Home Loan. The new monthly payment matched their old mortgage payment. “The loan process at CAP COM was easy and well organized. The Lending Department was very knowledgeable,” Lynn said. “It’s a great investment. And, it’s the kitchen we’ve always wanted.”

Refi delivers dream kitchenLatham couple refinances with a CAP COM Home Loan

Money Saving Home Refinancing Workshop!In less than an hour, you’ll get helpful insider tips from our mortgage professionals. Learn how you can save money while rates are at near-record lows. Our licensed mortgage professionals will reveal such tips as understanding cost-to-benefit ratios for refinancing and learning what types of debt to fold in with your new loan. Attend and be entered to win a $50 Lowe’s® gift card.*

Nov. 18, 2010 | 6:15 – 7:15 p.m.Main Office | Doors open at 5:45 p.m. Save your seat! RSVP today:Call: (518) 458-2195 ext. 3168E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.capcomfcu.org

Back by

popular

demand!

*No purchase necessary. CCFCU and subsidiary employees, volunteers and their families are not eligible. Prizes $20 and over in value may require the issuance of a year-end 1099 form from CCFCU. If the winner does not claim the gift card by Dec. 18, 2010 it will be forfeited. You must be present to win.

Walt Huba joined by his dog, Hudson, in his remodeled kitchen.

It’s easy to apply! • Online at www.capcomfcu.org • Ask at any branch • Call (518) 458-2195 ext. 2924 or (800) 468-5500

Page 3: Lines of Communication - Nov/Dec

Many of our members are talking with us about refinancing their mortgage. Interest rates are at historic lows and saving money is a necessity for many families. The good news is: Many of our members are finding that CAP COM can help. Give us 10 minutes and we can sketch out a refinance plan that could help you save. Call or drop by a branch and start the conversation today! As you’ll read at left, Latham residents Lynn and Walt Huba recently worked with CAP COM to discover a refinancing strategy that produced significant monthly savings. With one of the best Home Equity programs in the Northeast and our newly expanded Mortgage Department, which now includes MorPAC, Mortgage Processing Assistance Center, Inc., we can offer refinancing strategies to fit a variety of needs. The Hubas choose to shift their monthly savings toward a new, low-rate Home Loan,

which brought a long-awaited kitchen remodeling project to fruition. As Lynn tells us: “The CAP COM refinancing plan left us with about the same monthly payment and brought our dream kitchen to life.” Also in this issue, you’ll read about milestones in the Credit Union’s history. In November, we are not only celebrating the opening of our 10th

branch in Brunswick, but also the kickoff of our shortened (yet familiar) name: CAP COM Federal Credit Union. Our members have called us CAP COM for more than two decades. Now, it’s official! The Credit Union’s history dates back to 1953, when the Capital District Telephone Employees Federal Credit Union was chartered in downtown Albany. In 1984, after three decades of steady growth, we changed our name to Capital Communications Federal Credit Union. Not long after, our members began using the shortened name, “CAP COM.” While our banking services have grown and our name has evolved, the core principle of the Credit Union has remained the same: An unbridled commitment to making sure that everything we do benefits every member, every time, every day. So, as we celebrate new milestones, we remain committed to keeping you on the right course and meeting your changing financial needs.

Sincerely,

Paula A. Stopera President/CEO

Give us 10 minutes and we can sketch out a refinance plan that could help you save. Call or drop by a branch and start the conversation today!

LINEScontents

Lines of Communication is published bimonthlyexclusively for CAP COM Federal Credit Union members.

CANDACE STAZIO 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.

2 First-time homebuyers Buy and borrow wisely with help from CAP COM’s mortgage experts.

3 Youth options Kids get paid for report cards. PLUS: Awards and scholarships for teens.

4 Great insurance rates Members can save money and get expanded protection from Travelers.

5 Workshops Dates for member workshops. PLUS: Holiday schedules for our branches.

6 Brunswick Branch opens! Our 10th branch and shorter name are two of our many milestones.

8 Our Foundation at work Strides walk draws big crowd. PLUS: Get your 2011 Calendar of Dreams.

10 CAP COM Financial Planning for a happy retirement. PLUS: Long-term care planning.

11 Car Buyers Helpline Car buying expert Dave Pearson on holiday deals and leasing.

12 Our gift to you Discover our great Certificate rates.

PRESIdENt/CEO’S MESSAGE

By Paula A. Stopera

November/December ‘10 | 1

Get your Calendar of dreams Our $25 calendar helps the CAP COM Cares Foundation and offers a chance to win between $25 and $250 each day. Buy online at www.capcomcares.org.

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Full Moon

Credit Union Closed New Year’s Day

Credit Union Closed Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday (Observed)

“Navigating and understanding the many steps of the college fi nancial aid process can be

overwhelming for parents and students. Through our College Bound Program, we have products, services and resources to help you. Please call me ... I can answer the questions you have, and will work closely with you to support you through the fi nancial process.”

- Kim Donah

College Bound

Specialist

Our comprehensive College Bound Program prepares students for the road

ahead. With fi nancial literacy camps like Money & Me, scholarships and

educational workshops, we offer guidance and advice as our members

travel through early life stages.

Page 4: Lines of Communication - Nov/Dec

2 | November/December ‘10

Helping first-time homebuyersBuying a first home is a smart investment if you borrow wisely and target homes within your price range. The CAP COM Mortgage Department can help you build a prudent home-buying plan, beginning with realistic mortgage expectations. First-time homebuyers often start by shopping for a house, but it’s frequently wiser to begin by meeting with a CAP COM mortgage expert. “We’ll help you get preapproved for a mortgage with an affordable monthly payment. And, we can outline all the steps you should take to prepare for buying a home,” said Chris McKenna, Vice President of MorPAC.

Start your search After you’ve been preapproved for a mortgage that fits your needs, it’s time to start looking for a home with your realtor. Once you’ve targeted a home, we’ll help you get final mortgage approval and step into life as a homeowner. “We’ll help you get an accurate appraisal to assure that the property is worth as much as your expected mortgage. An independent appraisal is a critical piece of a smart home-buying decision,” McKenna said. Call, go online or drop by a branch to get started today!

Chris McKennaVice President of MorPACChris is CAP COM’s mortgage expert. He is dedicated to administering mortgages that are serviced locally.

CAP COM Mortgage Department(518) 458-2195 ext. 2924web.capcomfcu.org/homeloans

MorPAC is an independently incorporated and separately operated subsidiary of CAP COM Federal Credit Union. CAP COM Federal Credit Union shall not be held liable in relation to any information or advice provided by its independent subsidiaries.

Page 5: Lines of Communication - Nov/Dec

The Credit Union’s Making a Difference Awards are given each year to local middle and high school students who show outstanding commitment to community service and volunteering. The awards celebrate teen members who embody the credit union philosophy of “people helping people.”

Awards*First Place $1,000 Second Place $ 500 Third Place $ 300

Nominate a teenNominations can be made by a parent, grandparent, teacher or friend; or teens can nominate themselves. Nomination packets should include:

• A letter explaining how the nominee is making a difference in the community. Include the nominee’s full name and contact information and the nominee’s role within a community service organization.

• Send in a signed verification form along with your letter. Find the forms online at www.capcomfcu.org by clicking on the “Personal” tab and then “Teens and Young Adults.”

Mail completed nomination packets to: CAP COM Federal Credit Union Attn: Carie Sala 18 Computer Drive East, Albany, NY 12205

• Entries must be received by Feb. 1, 2011. We will announce the winners at our Annual Meeting next spring. For more information, call Carie Sala at (518) 458-2195 ext. 3671. You can also e-mail [email protected].

*Award money will be deposited into an 18-month CertifiKID in the winner’s name. Penalties may be issued for early withdrawals. CCFCU and subsidiary employees, volunteers and their families are not eligible.

Recognizing CAP COM teens who make a difference

November/December ‘10 | 3

“Everyone, no matter how young they are, can change the world. Every little act impacts someone. Maybe I will inspire younger kids to volunteer and maybe they will make the world a better place.” - Elyse Wohl 2010 First Place winner Making a Difference Award

New Youth Account prize: VISA® Gift Card

Open a new Youth Account or add a CertifiKID to an established account by Dec. 15, 2010 and be entered to win a $250 VISA Gift Card.1

CAP COM’s Youth Account options are aimed at young people from birth through age 17. Adult Credit Union members can open Youth Accounts for children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Call, go online or visit a branch to open a Youth Account. Our Great Grades Program allows youth members through high school to earn $10 per quarter (up to $40 per year) for report cards they are proud of. Kids can earn while they learn!

Art Goedeke Memorial Scholarship

This $2,000 scholarship is for a member (under age 25) planning to pursue a degree in computer science or information technology. Award selection is based on a review of candidate essays written in response to a prepared question. Visit us online or call Youth Program Coordinator Carie Sala at (518) 458-2195 ext. 3671 for more.

Kids meet Santa!

Visit the branches below on Saturdays in December from 10 a.m. and noon to meet Santa Claus. Reservations are not required.

Clifton Park Branch Dec. 4 Brunswick Branch Dec. 11 Main Office Dec. 18

Contact Willow Dannible at (518) 458-2195 ext. 3635 for more.

1No purchase necessary. Must be 18 or older to enter. CCFCU and subsidiary employees, volunteers and their families are not eligible. Gift Card winners are responsible for using cards before expiration date. If not used before expiration date, the gift will be forfeited. Prizes not claimed within 30 days of written notification will be forfeited. One entry per person.

Page 6: Lines of Communication - Nov/Dec

4 | November/December ‘10

Our Risk Management Team helps members stop scammers. Recent scams include fraudulent check offers tied to wire transfer requests. Many times, cash is wired before a fraudulent check deposit is detected. Here are tips for avoiding scams: • Never provide personal or financial information in response to an e-mail, text message or phone call.• Do not open unsolicited e-mails. • Never buy items marketed by spam e-mail or click on links in an unsolicited e-mail.• When selling items online, do not accept high bids from buyers who offer check payment tied to a partial refund. • Check www.capcomfcu.org or call (518) 458-2195 ext. 2200.

Preventing scams

Get started with a free quote • Visit web.capcomfcu.org/insurance • Ask at a branch location• Call (800) 842-5936

Great rates from travelers for membersA new partnership with Travelers provides CAP COM members a chance to save money and expand their insurance protection. Auto Insurance: Enjoy low group rates and an array of basic features and options to enhance protection. We also offer boat and yacht insurance. Home and Condo Insurance: Get quality coverage with many standard features and options to enhance your protection. Renter’s Insurance: A renter’s personal possessions are not covered from loss by a landlord’s insurance. Get covered today! Flood Insurance: Many people find out too late that their property insurance does not cover flood damage. Protect high-value items like a basement furnace. Umbrella Liability Insurance: Get $1 to $5 million of extra liability protection.

CAP COM Federal Credit Union does not warrant, guarantee or insure any service or product offered by any insurance company. CCFCU and Travelers are separate entities.

Mobile Banking just took a big leap forward. The CAP COM iPhone® App is now available at Apple’s App Store. Our App allows iPhone users to: • View account balances • Make transfers and pay bills • Find the nearest branches or ATMs

Mobile Banking optionsOur Mobile Banking gateway at www.capcomfcu.mobi supports all hand-held wireless devices.* Simply point your Internet-capable device to the website for real-time access to your account.

*Data charges may apply. Check with your wireless carrier.

iPhone App arrives

Our VISA Gift Cards make great holiday gifts. And, we’ve lowered the card purchase fee to $3! Our Gift Cards are versatile, convenient and safer than cash. Ask about buying a Gift Card at any branch.

VISA® Gift Cards

Director of Insurance Services Willis Reed

Insurance is underwritten by The Travelers Indemnity Company or one of its property casualty affiliates, One Tower Square, Hartford, CT 06183. Coverage, discounts, repair options and billing options are subject to state requirements and availability, individual qualifications and/or the insuring company’s underwriting guidelines.

Page 7: Lines of Communication - Nov/Dec

CAP COM hosts informational workshops on topics that matter to you. Doors open a half hour before each workshop; reservations are required. Unless otherwise indicated, workshops are free.

College Essay Writing Learn to craft an essay that gets noticed. Limited seating for each session. Reserve your spot today!

Nov. 3 & 10 | 6-8 p.m. Latham Branch 4 Century Hill Drive $60 fee

WorkshopsWorkshop RSVP • (518) 458-2195 ext. 3168 • [email protected] • www.capcomfcu.org

Include in your RSVP: Name Address E-mail and phone number Number of attendees Tell us how you heard about our workshops

Back by popular demand! Money Saving Home Refinancing WorkshopIf you’re thinking that this is the time to refinance, we’ve got the answers you need.

Nov. 18 | 6:15-7:15 p.m. Doors open at 5:45 p.m. Training Center 18 Computer Drive East, Albany

November/December ‘10 | 5

Important DatesNOVEMBER 11 ClosedVeterans Day

16 Opening at 9:30 a.m. Branches open late due to company-wide staff training.

24 Drive thrus open late Drive thrus open until 5:30 p.m.

25 ClosedThanksgiving Day

dECEMBER 24 Closing at 2 p.m. Christmas Eve Day

25 ClosedChristmas Day

31 Closing at 4:30 p.m.New Year’s Eve Day

jANuARY 1 ClosedNew Year’s Day

17 ClosedMartin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday

tEENS ANd YOuNG AduLtS

Leadership Awards Candace Stazio Marketing Manager Clifton Park Branch 2 years of service

Jim Faranda Senior Financial Advisor CAP COM Financial Services Latham Branch 21 years of service

tOP SalesLisa Chirchirillo Branch Representative, Clifton Park Branch 3 years of service

tOP ServiceKim Donah College Bound Specialist, Latham Branch 6 years of service

tOP Support Jordan Colaruotolo Junior System Administrator, Main Office 3 years of service

CAP COM believes in recognizing employees for outstanding efforts in support of members and fellow employees. In September, the Credit Union recognized two managers with Leadership Awards and three staff members with TOP Awards.

Employees Spotlight

Lisa

JimCandace Kim

Jordan

Director of Insurance Services Willis Reed

Page 8: Lines of Communication - Nov/Dec

6 | November/December ‘10

We are excited to bring our distinct brand of member service to the heart of Rensselaer County. The Brunswick Branch located at 799 Hoosick Road (Route 7) is now open! (See map at right.) Before CAP COM puts up branches, we put down roots. We are proud of partnerships with Seton Health, the Brunswick Little League and Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County, which help support the Brunswick community. And we look forward to working on more community projects soon! Stop by and see us! Visit our Brunswick Branch in November and enter to win1: • One of four Gift Baskets ($100 value) • Flat-screen TV grand prize ($800 value)

1953Charter No. 8658 The newly chartered Capital District Telephone Employees Federal Credit Union accepts 43 applications and $6,901 in deposits at its Albany office on State Street.

CAP COM Federal Credit Union is celebrating new milestones and harnessing fresh momentum. As we celebrate the opening of our 10th branch and our shorter (yet familiar) name, we highlight a few of our milestones. From our downtown Albany origins to what is today one of the largest and most respected credit unions in the Capital Region, CAP COM’s guiding principle has remained the same: An unbridled commitment to making sure that everything we do benefits every member, every time, every day.

Milestones & momentum

opens!Brunswick Branch

Carie Sala Youth Coordinator & Public Relations Administrator

Barb Borter Brunswick Branch Manager

Page 9: Lines of Communication - Nov/Dec

November/December ‘10 | 7

We are rolling out a new look and a shorter (yet familiar) name: CAP COM Federal Credit Union. Look for our new logo and familiar name at branch locations, on printed materials and on our website. “Our members have called us CAP COM for more than two decades. Now, it’s official. Though we have shortened our name, our industry-leading service remains unchanged,“ said President/CEO Paula A. Stopera.

Main Office and member companies The Credit Uniont headquarters move to 18 Computer Drive East in Albany. New member companies such as The Desmond Hotel and the Town of Bethlehem boost membership.

First branch Our first satellite branch opens on Century Hill Drive off Route 9 in Latham. The Latham Branch leads to a period of Credit Union branch expansion. Our website debuts at www.capcomfcu.org and soon becomes a full-service personal banking platform.

Branching outToday, our branches feature a kids play area, a computer station and photocopier, a free coin machine, and coffee and tea station. Our distinctive brand of friendly service is found in 10 branches in Albany, Saratoga, Schenectady and Rensselaer Counties. (See Page 12 for our branch list.)

New Brunswick Branch

Initial growth As the Credit Union completes a merger with Troy’s Gardenway FCU, it takes on a new name: Capital Communications Federal Credit Union.

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Our members call us CAP COM.

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1Sweepstakes Rules: No purchase necessary. Must be 18 or older to enter. CCFCU and subsidiary employees, volunteers and their families are not eligible. Prizes $600 and over will require the issuance of a form 1099-MISC from CCFCU. All prizes not claimed within 30 days of written notification will be forfeited. You may also enter by mailing a 3 x 5 card with your name and address to: CCFCU, 18 Computer Drive East, Albany, NY 12205-1168, Attn: Marketing Department. One entry per person.

Now, it’s official!

Page 10: Lines of Communication - Nov/Dec

8 | November/December ‘10

FoundationCAP COM Cares

A team of more than 470 CAP COM members, staff and volunteers joined with thousands of walkers in Albany during the 15th Annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk in mid-October. The Credit Union was again a proud flagship sponsor of the walk, which aims to boost awareness, education and fund-raising for breast cancer research. Our team raised nearly $40,000 this year, adding to the $750,000 raised during the Credit Union’s 15-year partnership with Strides. “The event is a cornerstone of our Foundation’s work. We remain committed to supporting the women and families who face breast cancer,” said President/CEO Paula A. Stopera. As in previous years, CAP COM debuted a keepsake stuffed animal to inspire survivors. “Zoe,” a zebra fitted with a small pink shirt, symbolizes a celebration of life. We’ll see you next year!

The CAP COM Team prepares for the walk.

Walk on!Strides walk draws big crowd and CAP COM raises nearly $40,000 to fight breast cancer

A survivor holds Zoe.

President/CEO Paula A. Stopera inspires the crowd.

CAP COM makes Strides!

Page 11: Lines of Communication - Nov/Dec

November/December ‘10 | 9

With your help, our Foundation makes the holidays brighter for families in need. Since 2003, we’ve provided complete Thanksgiving meals for 1,200 families, while giving more than 1,500 children a warm winter coat, a visit from Santa Claus and a holiday gift. Also, hundreds of homeless families have received decorations to help brighten their temporary home at the shelter. The Foundation is preparing for another season of giving in partnership with groups including the Marillac Family Shelter, St. Catherine’s Center for Children and the Visiting Nurses Association.

Holiday giving

Five teachers at local schools recently received a gift from our Foundation to help support their students as part of our CAP COM Cares for Classrooms Program. The program is designed to support teachers who are promoting teamwork and community service in their classrooms. The Foundation awarded $250 VISA® Gift Cards to: Penny Bonanno, of Southgate Elementary in Loudonville; Kate Smith, of Watervliet Elementary; Sheri Frueh, of Van Schaick Grade School in Cohoes; Tina Cascone, of the Thomas O’Brien Academy of Science & Technology in Albany; and Bethenny Kourt, of the Clarksville School.

Supporting teachers

2011Calendar

ofDreams

Proudly established by CAP COM Federal Credit Union

CAP COM CaresFoundation

Proudly established by CAP COM Federal Credit Union

CAP COM CaresFoundation

Proudly established by CAP COM Federal Credit Union

CAP COM CaresFoundation

Proudly established by CAP COM Federal Credit Union

CAP COM CaresFoundation

If your three-digit calendar number is drawn in the New York State Lottery Daily Evening Numbers

drawing, you WIN!

Nearly all of our calendar sales revenue is used to help those in need who live in our community.

Calendars are only $25.

For eligibility of charitable donation, please check with your tax advisor.

Makes a great gift for the holidays!

The passion and inspiration of CAP COM Cares Foundation is to provide financial support for community health and wellness initiatives, financial literacy and education programs, and causes

that support children and underprivileged families.

Supplies are limited. Buy one at any branch, online at www.capcomcares.org or contact Jim O’Connell at (518) 458-2195 ext. 3631 or

[email protected].

You have 365 chances to win up to

$250!

Watervliet Elementary’s Madison and Jeffrey Clermont hold our VISA® Gift Card and stand with teacher Kate Smith and Assistant Principal Todd Giagni.

A survivor holds Zoe.

President/CEO Paula A. Stopera inspires the crowd.

CAP COM makes Strides!

Page 12: Lines of Communication - Nov/Dec

CAP COM10 | November/December ‘10

Financial Services (518) 782-0209 | (800) 688-1045 | Fax (518) 782-5433www.capcomfinancial.com

Not NCUA Insured May Lose Value No Credit Union Guarantee

WORkSHOPRoth IRA 2010: America’s Newest tax Break*Discover the benefits of a Roth IRA conversion.

Nov. 16 | 10-11:30 a.m. & 5:30-7 p.m.Training Center 18 Computer Drive East, Albany

To RSVP, call (518) 782-0209 or send an e-mail to [email protected].

*Investors should discuss tax-related strategies with a qualified tax 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 CAP COM Federal Credit Union. CAP COM Financial Services and CAP COM 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.

This article was originally prepared by Standard & Poor’s Financial Communications and is not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations for any individual. Consult your Financial Advisor if you have any questions.

Planning for a happy retirementRetirement can be a time of great enjoyment. But to get there, you’ll need to have an adaptable plan to guide you through the end of your career. Meet with one of our Financial Advisors and we’ll help build a strategy for late-career retirement planning:

“Together, we can build a sustainable late-career retirement plan. Call for an appointment today.” – Jim Faranda, Senior Financial Advisor

Jim Faranda Senior Financial Advisor, CAP COM Financial Services (518) 782-0209 ext. 4032 • [email protected]

Long-term care

Long-term care insurance can protect your assets if you need extended care. It also allows you to choose the facility that you may enter and the level of care you will receive. CAP COM Financial can help build a long-term care insurance plan to protect you and your family. Begin considering this insurance once you reach age 40. The earlier you purchase long-term care insurance, the less you’ll pay for it. In some cases, premiums are tax deductible, though we advise that you consult a tax advisor.

• Review payout options like an annuity or lump sum for your employer-sponsored retirement account. • Build a health insurance plan and contact the U.S. Social Security Administration to assure your benefit statement and personal information are accurate. • Adjust your asset allocation with an eye toward drawing income out of your portfolio. Also, set a withdrawal rate to help ensure that your money lasts. • Determine your required minimum distribution (RMD) and develop a strategy to reduce your tax burden. • Name a health-care proxy and power-of-attorney representative to take charge of your health and financial affairs, in case you are unable to do so. • Use estate planning tools (e.g., trusts or a gifting strategy) that could reduce your taxable estate and pass along more assets to your heirs.

Page 13: Lines of Communication - Nov/Dec

November/December ‘10 | 11

(518) 782-0209 | (800) 688-1045 | Fax (518) 782-5433www.capcomfinancial.com

Q: I’ve heard there are good car deals during the holiday season. Is that true?

A: Many dealers see a dip in car-buying activity after Thanksgiving due to busy holiday schedules and cold weather. The low temperatures combined with gift shopping, travel plans and holiday events often keep buyers away from dealerships. But, dealers are still eager to sell cars. In some cases, that means buyers can get a great deal. The experts at the Car Buyers Helpline can find end-of-year deals while you take care of your holiday obligations. We’ll take the time to find you the right car and the best deal. Then, we’ll work together to determine if you should act before the New Year.

Of course, we can help you get a great deal on a new or previously owned vehicle at any time. But, it never hurts to look when dealers are motivated to sell. Also, Car Buyers can help you look into leasing options. We’ll negotiate a great monthly lease payment and low out-of-pocket costs. It couldn’t be any easier. Give us a call for a free consultation! Contact the Car Buyers Helpline (518) 458-2195 • (800) 468-5500 [email protected] www.carbuyershelpline.com

Send in a car buying question to Car Buyers Helpline Manager dave Pearson. E-mail your question to [email protected] with the subject, “Ask dave.”

Ask dave

* Annual Percentage Rate. 0% financing will apply for three months from date of disbursement. For example, a loan disbursed Nov. 15, 2010 will have a promotional period through Feb. 15, 2011 when it would convert to the interest rate at the time of the application. Payments are required each month during the promotional period. ** Annual Percentage Rate. All rates quoted are for individuals with excellent credit and sustainable income who select our Automatic Payment Plan. Rate applies to a new Auto Loan with a 3-year term (2008-2011). Sample payment for 3.49% is $29.30 per $1,000. Rate is accurate as of Oct. 18, 2010. The Credit Union will not be held liable in relation to any car buying information or advice provided by Car Buyers Helpline. Car Buyers Helpline is a subsidiary of CCFCU.

Our 0%APR* Auto Loan makes financing your car FAST! Our top-notch Lending Team makes it EASY!

Discover rates as low as 3.49%APR** at our Auto Loan Center on our website. Choose convenient loan features like automatic weekly or biweekly payments to help pay off your loan faster!

Make it FASt and EASY! Step 1: Call, visit a branch or apply online to get preapproved for an Auto Loan today! Step 2: Call the Car Buyers Helpline and get a great deal. Step 3: Get your Auto Loan check. Pay the dealer. Drive away!

Contact Lending Support at (518) 458-2195 ext. 2924 or (800) 468-5500. You can also visit a convenient branch location or our Auto Loan Center at www.capcomfcu.org.

Mind the GAP!We also offer Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP) to forgive your remaining outstanding loan balance after a total-loss settlement.

• Review payout options like an annuity or lump sum for your employer-sponsored retirement account. • Build a health insurance plan and contact the U.S. Social Security Administration to assure your benefit statement and personal information are accurate. • Adjust your asset allocation with an eye toward drawing income out of your portfolio. Also, set a withdrawal rate to help ensure that your money lasts. • Determine your required minimum distribution (RMD) and develop a strategy to reduce your tax burden. • Name a health-care proxy and power-of-attorney representative to take charge of your health and financial affairs, in case you are unable to do so. • Use estate planning tools (e.g., trusts or a gifting strategy) that could reduce your taxable estate and pass along more assets to your heirs.

Car Buyers Helpline is an independently incorporated and separately operated subsidiary of CAP COM Federal Credit Union. CAP COM Federal Credit Union shall not be held liable in relation to any information or advice provided by its independent subsidiaries.

Page 14: Lines of Communication - Nov/Dec

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: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Thurs & Fri: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sat: 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 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 Albany (Main Office and mailing address)18 Computer Drive East • Albany, NY 12205-1168

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

NOW OPEN! Brunswick799 Hoosick Road

OtHER AtM LOCAtIONS Clifton Park Food Court, Clifton Park Center

Waterford (Limited branch hours)260 Hudson River Road

Other surcharge-free options SUM Networks COOP ATM

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

WEB BANkING www.capcomfcu.org Secure online banking

www.capcomfcu.mobi Mobile device banking

12 | November/December ‘10

Our gift to youDiscover CAP COM’s great Certificate1 rates.

With terms from three to 60 months, our certificates can match your savings strategy. Make your money work for you. Start today! Visit our website or ask a Branch Associate to learn more.

1 Certificate requires membership in the Credit Union. Certificate dividends are compounded daily and posted quarterly. A penalty may be imposed for early withdrawals. Fees and other conditions may reduce the earnings on some accounts. Other rates and terms may apply based on product/service relationship with the Credit Union.

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Member Company SpotlightThe Desmond Hotel and Conference Center offers colonial charm and a business-friendly environment. The Desmond features 323 guest rooms, a renovated fitness center, a spacious conference center with 12 meeting spaces, and the Scrimshaw Restaurant, which is a AAA Four Diamond Restaurant.

Member discountUse your CAP COM VISA® Debit or Credit Card at The Desmond and enjoy: • $5 off a Scrimshaw brunch. Excluding holidays. • Get a 10% discount off the regular Friday, Saturday or Sunday night room rates (subject to availability). Find a full list of discounts* on our website.

During the holiday season, we often stop for a moment and reflect on what is important to us. We can find that moment in the bustling excitement of a Thanksgiving dinner or a holiday celebration; or in the quiet solitude of a winter snowfall. We want to take this opportunity to let you know how thankful we are for the trust you place in us every day to manage your finances responsibly and with integrity.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, staff and committee volunteers that make up our family at CAP COM Federal Credit Union, we extend our warmest wishes for a safe and happy holiday season and a prosperous New Year.

*Offer details vary by vendor. Effective date of the program is 2/1/10. Credit Union does not endorse or guarantee the products or services of Member Companies. Previous purchases excluded. Program subject to change or cancellation without notice.

Holiday reflections Our gift to you

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PRSRT STD U.S. Postage

PAID Albany, NY Permit #186

18 Computer Drive East Albany, NY 12205-1168

Refi delivers dream kitchen

Lynn and Walt Huba, of Latham, refinanced and saved with a low-rate CAP COM Home Loan. the extra money helped bring their dream kitchen to life. discover more inside!