York, PA – First Capital Federal Credit Union hosted blood drives February 4 & 5, 2010 at two of its branches.  On Thursday, the American Red Cross blood mobile was at the South York branch located at 2602 Course Road, York.  And on Friday, it was at the Main branch located at 1601 Kenneth Road, York.  “With blood donations typically low in winter months, we felt this was the best time to set up the drives, said Tara Houser, Marketing Director.  “But now, after the tragic earthquake in Haiti, the need for blood is even greater.”  The American Red Cross is providing first aid, food and water as well as blood and blood products to those in need.  Nearly 50 First Capital employees, members and neighbors came out to give.  

The American Red Cross takes blood from a donor!

York, PA - First Capital Federal Credit Union and its members are doing their part to keep children warm this winter.  Today, we dropped off more than 75 hats, scarves and mittens to the Children’s Home of York.  During the holidays, members and staff placed the cold weather gear on ‘Hat & Mitten’ trees located in the lobbies of our West and East branches.  First Capital has been donating hats and mittens to the Children’s Home of York for nearly 15 years.

Tara Baylor, Business Development Representative, places hats, mittens and scarves into a box to take over to the Children's Home of York.

York, PA - From ‘going green’ to ‘growing and giving green’, First Capital will prove it’s all about the green with our entry in this year’s Annual York Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, to be held Saturday, March 13, 2010.  The parade will start at 1 p.m. with approximately 100 entries taking part and around 10,000 people in attendance.  Entries will range from bands, Irish dance groups, floats, and antique and decorated vehicles to clowns, individuals and family groups, organizations, and media entries.  And, in a press conference on January 20, 2010, the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade Committee announced Paul Kilker, Owner & President of GGS Information Systems, will serve as this year’s Grand Marshal. 

First Capital’s Marketing Director, Tara Houser (middle), presents a check to the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade Committee for First Capital’s sponsorship of the parade.

York, PA – In honor of First Capital Federal Credit Union’s 55^th Anniversary and its 2009 ‘green’ initiative, First Capital ran a year-long contest to give away a ‘green’ vehicle, a scooter.  To be in the running for the scooter, a member had to take a loan with First Capital during the 2009 calendar year.  At the end of the year, five semi-finalists were randomly selected from the nearly 2,000 members who had received a loan, and invited to a Scooter Giveaway Party held January 14, 2010 at First Capital’s Main Branch.  The semi-finalists’ names were all placed in an environmentally-friendly bag and selected one by one.  The first four members whose names were pulled, received VISA gift cards ranging in value from $25 - $100, the grand prize winners, Judy and Raymond Potts, were the lucky members to win the scooter.  Judy said she’s never won anything and was so excited to be chosen.  “The event was a huge success for the Credit Union,” said Tara Houser, Marketing Director.  “We really wanted our members to enjoy themselves and know that First Capital lives its tagline, ‘First for Loans, First for You!’”

Judy & Raymond Potts pose with their new scooter!

York, PA – Employees at First Capital Federal Credit Union are lending a helping hand to the homeless this Christmas.  First Capital held a Silent Auction during its Holiday Party on December 8, 2009.  And, thanks to our sponsor companies and other local businesses, we had more than 50 items to bid on.  Donations ranged from luggage and restaurant gift certificates to artwork and centerpieces.  In all, the Silent Auction brought in $1,665.00 and on December 18, 2009, we donated it to York’s Helping Hand for the Homeless.  Cynthia Kemp, Executive Director of York’s Helping Hand for the Homeless, stopped by our Main Office to pick up the check.  She says the money will be used to help provide shelter to those left homeless this winter. 

Linda Thompson, HR Manager and Cynthia Kemp, Executive Director of York’s Helping Hand for the Homeless hold check for $1,665.00.

York, PA – Christmas is a time for giving and employees of First Capital Federal Credit Union certainly got into the spirit.  Instead of giving presents to each other, employees chose to adopt two families from the Bell Family Shelter, a 30-day emergency shelter serving homeless families in York County.

“It’s really a wonderful reflection on our employees that we are able to adopt two families this year,” says Linda Thompson, Human Resources Manager.  “We are living our mission statement of putting the financial wellbeing of our members and dedication to our community FIRST."  Today, Melodie Kirkland, Program Coordinator, stopped by our Main Office to pick up the presents for the families.  They will be delivered to the families in time for Christmas.

Linda Thompson, HR Manager at First Capital FCU, Melodie Kirkland, Program Coordinator at Bell Socialization Services, Inc. and Santa’s helper, collected presents for two families at the Bell Family Shelter who were adopted by the staff of First Capital FCU for Christmas.

York, PA – On November 17, 2009, 30 people joined First Capital Federal Credit Union for a Financial Freedom Seminar (FFS) at our new South York Office, located at 2602 Course Road.  During the seminar, Tara Baylor, Alicia Venable and Sue DeStephano discussed Savings and Debt Management, what makes up your Credit Score and the value of it, and closed by offering guests the opportunity to obtain their credit score for free.  The group had many questions which staff took time to answer after the hour long seminar.  First Capital offers the Financial Freedom Seminar quarterly to both members and non-members alike.

Sue DeStephano, VP of Lending, discusses credit scores with the attendees!

York, PA – A special treat for some employees at First Capital Federal Credit Union.  First Capital challenged the staff at each of its three branches to bring in the most sales during the Enterprise Car Sale held October 16 & 17, 2009.  During those two days, 8 cars were financed through the Credit Union and most of those buyers came from the East York Office.  On November 17th, to say thanks for a job well done, the Senior Managers treated the employees at the East York branch to a cookout complete with hot dogs, hamburgers, bratwursts, potato salad, crab salad and chips. 

The Senior Managers cook lunch for the staff at the East York branch!

York, PA – Did you know the Articles of Confederation not only served as our country’s first Constitution, but that it was also adopted by the Continental Congress in York in 1777?  On November 15, 2009, First Capital celebrated the Articles of Confederation with the York County Heritage Trust from 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm at the Colonial Court House on West Market Street. 

Patriotic activities included a flag raising ceremony with musical performances by the Central York Middle School Fife & Drums; Debating the Articles of Confederation, a reenactment presented by the members of the York Bar Association; an award presentation and the reading of the first place Articles of Confederation Essay Contest winners; as well as light refreshments and the musical stylings of The Elmwood String quartet. 

First Capital’s Marketing Director attended the ceremony and helped present the awards.  First Capital FCU was a proud sponsor of the contest.

York, PA – On Thursday, November 5^th, the 101 the Rose (WROZ-FM) Hunger Care-A-Van made a stop at First Capital Federal Credit Union.  As part of their annual food drive, The Rose’s Michael C. Anthony broadcast live from the lobby of our Main Office.  During the 5 pm – 7 pm hours, Michael C. invited listeners, First Capital staff, and members to bring donations of non-perishable food to their table.  And in just two hours, 415 lbs. of food was collected for the York Rescue Mission.  And, a $100 VISA Gift Card, donated by First Capital, was awarded to one lucky person who donated food at First Capital.

Showing off the amount of food collected at First Capital!

York, PA - First Capital Federal Credit Union is proud to announce that Amber Renick, a First Capital employee, has been chosen as the 2009/10 Youth Ambassador for the York Chapter of Credit Unions.  She will represent the Chapter in the state finals next May in Atlantic City, New Jersey.  Ms. Renick competed against Angela Brown from White Rose CU.  As the winner, Ms. Renick will receive a $500 savings bond.

Ms. Renick is a Member Service Officer at First Capital FCU and has been with the Credit Union for a year and a half.  She is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree in Business from Penn State York.  In her free time, Ms. Renick enjoys traveling, reading, and creating art.

Amber Renick and Angela Brown stand as they wait to see who has become the new Youth Ambassador.

York, PA – In an effort to celebrate International Credit Union Day and garner excitement for our Ultimate Tailgate Used Car Sales Event through Enterprise, First Capital came up with a theme combining the two events, “SCORE BIG with First Capital and Enterprise…Your Money, Your Choice, Your Credit Union.”  To celebrate, on Thursday, October 15^th - International Credit Union Day, the staff wore jeans and their favorite sports paraphernalia.  Members tried their luck at the First Capital wheel of fortune and munched on tailgate-themed foods like nachos, pretzels, football shaped cookies and brownies the staff provided as part of the celebration.  On Friday, October 16^th, staff once again wore jeans and their favorite sports jerseys and served chips and pretzels to all those who came into the Main Branch.  The idea was to get members revved up about our Enterprise Car Sale while showing them we care.  Not only did we offer them a great rate on an Enterprise car, those who bought also received $200 in their account or a GPS navigation system.  Additionally, staff members paid $5 to wear jeans both days, raising a grand total of $200 for the March of Dimes…a win-win for everyone!

First Capital staff show their team spirit while garnering excitement for the Enterprise Sale.

York, PA – Management and Board Members of First Capital Federal Credit Union, along with several York County officials and staff of the York County Chamber of Commerce, cut the ribbon to officially open First Capital’s new ‘green’ branch on Thursday, September 17, 2009.  After the ribbon cutting, the nearly 100 business leaders in attendance were invited inside to enjoy hors d’oeuvres and cocktails.  Many took time to read the various signs outlining the green amenities incorporated in the building and then toured the building to see the geothermal wells and rainwater capture system up close.  Near the end of the evening Dennis Flickinger, First Capital’s President/CEO, thanked everyone for coming and awarded one lucky person a goody bag filled with First Capital merchandise and a $50 VISA gift card.  In addition, First Capital staff handed out environmentally friendly water bottles to folks as they left the building. 

Cutting the ribbon for the new 'green' South York Branch

York, PA – During United Way’s Day of Action on Friday, September 11, 2009, Managers at First Capital Federal Credit Union did their part to help out the community.  The managers were divided into two teams.  The first group was comprised of Tara Houser, Ed Fadely, Linda Thompson and Sue DeStephano.  They were assigned the task of painting the classroom for the boys involved in the Children’s Home of York STRIVE Program.  The STRIVE program provides highly structured treatment for adolescent males aged 14 to 18 who have a history of substance abuse or dependence.  The other group, consisting of Becky Braun, Kevin Linden, Lisa Day, Sharon Miller, Lori Murphy, Wendy Spangler, and Wendy Tawney, assisted in painting the trim in three bedrooms of the main house.  The staff was very appreciative of First Capital’s help.

Ed Fadely, Sue DeStephano, Linda Thompson, and Tara Houser take a break from painting to pose for a picture!

York, Pa – In addition to the wedding night sponsorship on August 9, 2009, First Capital FCU also had the opportunity to sponsor the fireworks at the York Revolution game on Saturday, August 15, 2009.  Dennis Flickinger, President/CEO, threw out the first pitch.  He then had the opportunity to speak to the crowd after which First Capital hats were thrown into the crowd.  But, it was Tara Houser, Marketing Director, who had the most dangerous role…she pushed the plunger to start the fireworks display after the game.

Dennis Flickinger, President/CEO of First Capital, throws out the first pitch!

York, Pa – After last year’s resounding success sponsoring York Revolution’s Wedding Night, First Capital Federal Credit Union immediately signed on to do it again.  The wedding was originally scheduled for August 15, 2009 but the couple chosen to get married was unable to make that night, so the wedding was moved to Sunday, August 9, 2009.  On Sunday, First Capital staff watched as Candy Seitz and Walter Reed said their “I dos” at the York Revolution stadium.  Not your typical wedding, it actually took 22 years and the promise of an outrageous wedding ceremony for Seitz to accept Reed’s proposal.  But, what makes this even more special is that Reed is in need of a new heart.  Because of a genetic condition, Reed needs to receive a heart transplant in the next eight months to a year. In the meantime, he has become Penn State Hershey Medical Center's first patient to receive a German-invented device that will keep his heart pumping regularly until a suitable donor can be found.  After the ceremony the couple enjoyed a ride in the limo and joined the reception already in full swing in a suite at the stadium.  After the second inning Tara Houser, Marketing Director for First Capital FCU, went onto the field and presented the couple with a wedding present.  Houser says, “It was such a touching story.  I’m proud First Capital chose to sponsor the wedding night and could be there to watch as the couple began the next phase in their lives.”  First Capital plans to sponsor the wedding night again next year.

Mr. & Mrs. Walter Reed

York, PA – On June 26-28, 2009, volunteers from First Capital Federal Credit Union helped staff York Hospital Auxiliary’s Book Nook Bonanza 2009.  This year’s Book Nook offered more than 250,000 books, hundreds of magazines, and an entire room of VHS, DVD, albums and tapes for sale at low prices.  The three-day annual event was held at the York Suburban Middle School and raised thousands of dollars to benefit York Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.   

First Capital employees volunteer their time to work at the Book Nook Bonanza 2009.

York, PA – First Capital Federal Credit Union staff go casual for a cause.  Now through August 3rd, employees are permitted to wear jeans every Friday, as well as Thursday, July 3^rd and Monday, August 3^rd, for a one-time donation of $10.  Many employees took advantage of the offer and $465 was collected.  That money was given today to the Bell Family Shelter, a 30-day emergency shelter serving homeless families in York County.  “I can only imagine how beneficial this is going to be to those who need assistance,” says Linda Thompson, HR Manager.  “Our employees’ generosity will help those in need with even the simplest things that we take for granted; it could be bus tickets, over the counter medical supplies, bed sheets or even baby formula.”

Linda Thompson & Dennis Flickinger present a check for $465 to Marcella Kinard. The money will benefit the Bell Family Shelter.

York, PA – Enterprise Car Sales presents Tara Houser, Marketing Director for First Capital Federal Credit Union, and Margie Adelmann, President of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Central PA Chapter, with a check for $1,000.  Ms. Houser was one of 20 community leaders selected to be part of the York Multiple Sclerosis Leadership Class of 2009.  The Class was asked to conduct a fundraising campaign to benefit the National MS Society and today, Enterprise Car Sales presented a check for $1,000 to Ms. Houser and Ms. Adelmann.  Ms. Houser was honored with the esteemed MS Leadership Award at a reception at the Yorktowne Hotel on March 30, 2009.

Tara Houser, First Capital FCU & Margie Adelmann, National MS Society, receive $1,000 check from representatives from Enterprise Car Sales!

York, PA – In May, First Capital FCU helped sponsor “Mack Madness”…a fundraiser honoring the life of McKenzie (Mack) Schneider.  McKenzie was just 3 years old when she passed away on February 28, 2009 from Leukemia.  And, on May 24, 2009, more than 700 people came out to celebrate her life with a day of live music, a chicken barbeque dinner, fun kids’ activities and a silent auction.  The event was held at the Party Pals at the Grove in York County.  In all, $25,000 was raised for charity.  The money was divided between the York Area Down Syndrome Association, The National Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and The Ronald McDonald House in Hershey.  First Capital was a proud sponsor of the event providing mugs and pens to those who came.  The event was such a huge success, Mack’s family has already agreed to hold the event again next year.

Sue DeStephano, VP of Lending, talks to First Capital members and fundraiser attendees!

York, PA- During the month of May, members and employees of First Capital Federal Credit Union collected donations for our troops serving overseas.  And, on June 3^rd, First Capital donated those items to Becky Bair, Volunteer Leader of Support Our American Recruits (SOAR).  SOAR is affiliated with the York-Adams Chapter of the American Red Cross and was started in 2001 as a support group for family members and loved ones of military personnel to provide a place for people to come together and support one another.  The group also supports the troops by sending care packages to those from York and Adams County who are serving overseas.  In all, First Capital collected several boxes of donations ranging from toothbrushes, toothpaste and other toiletries to Slim Jims and Oreos.  “I was very pleased with the amount of donations that came in,” said Tara Houser, Marketing Director, “It just shows our members and employees believe in the philosophy of people helping people.”

Becky Bair, Volunteer Leader of SOAR, receives First Capital's donations for our troops.

York, PA – On June 3rd, First Capital Federal Credit Union’s Marketing Director, Tara Houser, took part in the 2009 Women Build for Habitat for Humanity.  Ms. Houser along with others in the Women’s Business Network – White Rose Chapter and several Soccer Moms made up the morning’s work crew.  Work began at 7 am.  And, it was our job to frame the house.  And, we ‘nailed’ it.  But, there were several men on site to guide us in the framing process.  When we left at 11 am, one wall was up and another was being constructed.  The project manager plans to have all of the walls of the home up by the end of this week.  Then, work on the roof begins.  Construction on the home, located at 81 Allen Lane in Dover, began on Saturday, May 2^nd and the home is expected to be completed at the end of July.  Ms. Houser says, “It was a great experience and one with which I hope to get more of the staff of First Capital FCU involved.”

York, PA - During the months of April and May, Marketing Director, Tara Houser taught 2^nd graders about how a community works.  They learned about the different roles people play, how a business is run and how money flows through the community.  As a volunteer for the Junior Achievement program, Tara worked with 22 children at Trimmer Elementary School.  That’s in the West York School District.  Tara says, "It was a great opportunity to help children learn, as well as to spread the word about First Capital."

Sue DeStephano, Tara Baylor, and Alicia Venable have also been involved in educating our youth.  For the past two months these ladies have visited Dallastown, Red Lion and Susquehannock High Schools.  There, they’ve presented the Financial Education Seminar to teens.  The program has been very well received and First Capital hopes to visit more schools in the future.

Tara Houser, Marketing Director, poses with the 2nd grade students in Ms. Mummert's class at Trimmer Elementary School. Tara volunteered there as part of the Junior Achievement program.

York, PA - First Capital's very own Kaitlin Olewiler and twelve other young people from around the state competed for the title of 2009 Credit Union Youth Ambassador of Pennsylvania, during the Pennsylvania Credit Union Association Annual Convention & Exposition on Friday, May 15, 2009. 

Kaitlin did an outstanding job on her speech, but it was Laura Huggins of the Harrisburg Chapter and Belco Community Credit Union, who took home the state title.

Kaitlin, we commend you on a job well done.

Kaitlin Olewiler, First Capital FCU Employee & York Chapter of Credit Union's Youth Ambassador, gives her speech during the PCUA Convention & Exposition.

York, PA – On May 6, 2009, First Capital FCU participated in the annual Business and Technology Expo held at the York Expo Center.  Our “It’s Easy Being Green” booth was designed in conjunction with TKS Architects and Henderson Construction Services, the architect and builder of our new ‘green’ branch.  From the carpeting to the tables, the products that were used to construct the booth were all elements being used in the new branch.  In keeping with the green theme, the booth also showcased the scooter First Capital will give away at the end of the year.  The scooter giveaway is part of our going green initiative and our 55^th Anniversary Celebration.  Also during the show we handed out organic apples and evergreen saplings to anyone who stopped by.  To make the day even better, First Capital was awarded an Honorable Mention for the Best-in-Show category! 

Dennis Flickinger, President/CEO & Bill Pacacha, VP of Member Relations proudly show off our award-winning booth.

York, PA – On Saturday, April 4, 2009, several staff members of First Capital FCU took part in a Bowl for Kids’ Sake event at Colony Park Lanes East.  Thanks to generous donations, the two teams raised more than $750 for Big Brothers Big Sisters, a mentoring program for children ages 6 through 18.  Every year participants of Bowl for Kids’ Sake raise money for the program and then bowl alongside their co-workers, friends and family in this fun and exciting afternoon.  The afternoon was made even better when First Capital Member Service Representative, Tracey Hufnagle bowled a 238, the highest women’s score for our session.

Staff members bowl to help kids!

York, PA – Tara Houser, Marketing Director for First Capital Federal Credit Union, was one of 20 community leaders selected to be part of the York Multiple Sclerosis Leadership Class of 2009.  The MS Leadership Class program honors executives for their outstanding contributions to the civic, business and cultural betterment of the Central Pennsylvania area.  The Class was asked to conduct a fundraising campaign to benefit the Central Pennsylvania Chapter of the National MS Society which in turn helps the more than 5,700 people living with MS in the area.  Ms. Houser raised $870 for the National MS Society and the Class raised nearly $10,000 total.  At an awards reception at the Yorktowne Hotel on March 30, 2009, Ms. Houser and the other members of the Class each received the esteemed MS Leadership Award. 

York, PA- Six credit unions in York County, including First Capital, teamed up for the Member Madness III Used Auto Sales Event March 20 & 21, 2009.  The event, held in the Toyota Arena at the York Expo Center, not only featured more than 100 Enterprise Cars for sale, but also gave members an opportunity to give blood and a chance to win a car.  The car was given away at the end of the event.  It went to Sandra and Barry Halpin, members of White Rose Credit Union.  In all, 30 cars were sold during the two-day event.

First Capital's booth at the Enterprise Car Sale

York, PA - - On February 6, 2009, millions of people across the country wore red to support the Go Red for Women movement. The movement was founded by the American Heart Association to fight back against heart disease and stroke, the number one killer of American women. Many First Capital staff members showed their support by wearing red…and I managed to catch a few of them on camera. Thanks for your support!

Staff members dress in red to support the Go Red for Women movement!

York, PA – First Capital Federal Credit Union and its members are doing their part to keep children warm this winter.  On December 22nd, Ken Welsh added more than a dozen hats, scarves and mittens to our Hat and Mitten tree.  Four local families knit and purchased the warm weather gear to donate to First Capital.  First Capital has already taken about 30 hats, mittens and scarves to the Children’s Home of York and has collected at least 30 more to give to the Home in January.  First Capital has been donating hats and mittens to the Children’s Home of York for more than 10 years.

Ken Welsh hangs a scarf he donated on the Hat & Mitten Tree. The warm weather gear will be donated to the Children's Home of York.

York, PA – Employees at First Capital Federal Credit Union are lending a helping hand to the homeless this Christmas.  During our Holiday Party on December 17th, we held a Silent Auction.  We had dozens of items to bid on which were all graciously donated by our sponsor companies and other local businesses.  Donations ranged from a Garment Bag from Bailey Travel to two Gift Certificates to the Culinary Institute’s Student-Run Restaurant.  In all, First Capital brought in $867 and donated it to York’s Helping Hand for the Homeless.  Cynthia Kemp, Executive Director of York’s Helping Hand for the Homeless, stopped by our Main Office to pick up the check.  She says the money will be used to help provide shelter to those left homeless this winter.

Dennis Flickinger, President/CEO presents a check for $867 to Cynthia Kemp, Executive Director of York's Helping Hand for the Homeless.

York, PA - Christmas is a time of giving and employees of First Capital Federal Credit Union have certainly gotten into the spirit.  Instead of giving presents to each other, employees have kept up their annual tradition and adopted a family from the Bell Family Shelter, a 30-day emergency shelter serving homeless families in York County.

 “Our adopted family consisted of a mother and three children.  But, our employees really stepped up, purchasing even more than what was on their Christmas wish lists,” says Linda Thompson, Human Resources Manager.  “It’s always great to see our employees come together to make the holidays brighter for those in need.”

Today, Marcella Kinard, Director of Shelter Services, stopped by our Main Office to pick up the presents for the family.  They will be delivered to the family in time for Christmas.

Marcella Kinard, Bell Family Shelter, accepts presents from Linda Thompson, HR Manager & Dennis Flickinger, President/CEO.

York, PA - Giving to The United Way of York pays off for one First Capital employee.  Business Services Manager, Wendy Tawney, just won a 2008 Chevy Malibu.  Her name was pulled in a drawing during the United Way's campaign celebration.  Tawney says she has given to the United Way campaign for 20 years.  She doesn't look at the prizes, she just gives to help others.

York, PA - On Friday, December 5, 2008, 35 First Capital Federal Credit Union employees paid $5 to wear blue jeans to work.  The $175 collected will benefit the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots Program and the Children’s Home of York.  In addition, First Capital is also collecting toys for Toys for Tots and hats and mittens for the Children’s Home of York at each of its three branches.  This is just First Capital’s way of helping make the holidays brighter for children in York County.

York, PA - On November 14, 2008, dozens of First Capital Federal Credit Union Employees helped raise money for the March of Dimes.  Under the Blue Jeans for Babies campaign, employees paid $5 and received a specially designed button/sticker that entitled them to wear jeans or casual clothes for the day.  In all, First Capital raised $210.00 for the March of Dimes.  The March of Dimes mission is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects and infant mortality.  The annual Blue Jeans for Babies campaign takes place in offices throughout the country.

York, PA - First Capital Federal Credit Union is very proud to announce that Kaitlin Olewiler, a First Capital employee, has been chosen as the 2009 Youth Ambassador for the York Chapter of Credit Unions.  She will represent the Chapter in the state finals next May in Hershey. Ms. Olewiler competed against Andrew Doerr from Heritage Valley FCU.  As the winner, Ms. Olewiler will receive a $500 savings bond.

Ms. Olewiler is a Lending Services Assistant at First Capital.  She graduated from York Suburban Senior High School in 2004, and is currently a senior at York College of Pennsylvania, majoring in Behavioral Science.  She is also a member of the Senior Honor Society. 

Congratulations Kaitlin and Good Luck!

Kaitlin Olewiler, 2009 York Chapter of Credit Unions Youth Ambassador and Dennis Flickinger, First Capital's President/CEO

York, PA - During these uncertain economic times, many people are questioning the strength of their financial institutions.  First Capital Federal Credit Union is proud to announce it has received a 5-star rating from BauerFinancial, the nation’s leading independent credit union and bank rating firm.  A 5-star rating is the highest rating any credit union or bank can receive.  It indicates superior strength and safety.  For more on the rating system, visit www.bauerfinancial.com.

York, PA - On November 4, 2008 some special guests made a stop at First Capital Federal Credit Union.  As part of their 10 towns in 10 days tour, The Rose “Breakfast Club” (WROZ-FM) broadcast live from the parking lot of our Main Office located on Kenneth Rd. in West Manchester Township, York County.  During the 6 am – 10 am hours, Dennis Mitchell and Michelle Cruz invited listeners, First Capital staff and members to bring donations of non-perishable food to their RV.  All of the food and money raised benefited the York Rescue Mission.  In all, the York Rescue Mission received more than $300 in cash and dozens of food items.  First Capital also donated a $100 VISA Gift Card that was awarded to one lucky person who made a donation.

Left to right: Paul Gorog, Executive Director, York Rescue Mission; Tara Houser, Marketing Director, First Capital Federal Credit Union; Dennis Mitchell, 101 the Rose Breakfast Club; Michelle Cruz, 101 the Rose Breakfast Club.

York, PA – On October 4 & 5, 2008, First Capital Federal Credit Union was busy cookin’ up some new business.  Volunteers manned a booth at the Women’s Show which took place at the York Expo Center.  First Capital’s theme for the show was Recipe for Success.  The booth was decorated for Fall with pumpkins and gourds and had a cookbook, recipe box and recipe cards on display.  The giveaway items were recipe card holders and kitchen utensils with recipe cards listing our 4th Quarter promotions attached.  The giveaway items were a big hit with those attending.

Picture (left to right): Lori Hoskin, Wendy Tawney, Kay Zaleski

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  On October 8th, the staff of First Capital Federal Credit Union, York, wore pink in an effort to bring awareness to our members about the fight to cure this disease.  Management also provided pink ribbon pins, emory boards, and mints to the staff as part of the recognition.

Picture (left to right): Wendy Tawney, Sue DeStephano, Tammy Bailey, Helen Eisenhart, Linda Thompson, Wendy Spangler, Neela Joshi, Lisa Lutz

York, PA – First Capital Federal Credit Union celebrated International Credit Union Day on October 16th with a Bake-Off Contest.  Staff members made their favorite dessert and members got the chance to sample each and vote for their favorite.  So many members told employees how much they enjoyed the food and what a great idea it was.  One member enjoyed her dessert so much that she even called in for the recipe when she got home.  The goodies ranged from chocolate chip and peanut butter cookies to caramel apple salad and chocolate cupcakes with peanut butter icing.  The contest winner at each branch received a First Capital umbrella. 

York , PA – During United Way’s Day of Action on Thursday, September 4, 2008, Managers at First Capital Federal Credit Union did their part to help spruce up the community. The managers were divided into two teams. The first group was comprised of Sharon Miller, Becky Braun, Bill Pacacha and Sue DeStephano. They were assigned to Kingston House, a housing facility for low income elderly and/or the disabled, on West King Street. There they painted the managers office, the community room and the entry way. Those at Kingston House were very appreciative of First Capital’s help and even said they had planned to hire a painter for the job, but now that money could be spent on another part of the building. Six other FCFCU managers volunteered to do some housecleaning at the Jewish Community Center of York. Dennis Flickinger, Kevin Linden, Linda Thompson, Wendy Tawney, Wendy Spangler and Lori Murphy cleaned all the exterior windows of the JCC while meeting a number of the Center’s daycare participants. The children shared their gardening and cleaning skills while learning about the window-washing process from the volunteers.

Photo (left to right): Sharon Miller, West York Branch Manager; Becky Braun, Internal Auditor/Compliance Officer; Sue DeStephano, VP of Lending; Bill Pacacha, VP of Member Relations

Enough that members and employees alike joined us on a bus trip to Atlantic City, NJ on Sunday, September 7, 2008. First Capital Federal Credit Union sponsored a bus trip to the Tropicana Casino & Resort for a fun-filled day of gambling. We also enjoyed a musical performance by “The Sounds of the Temptations” and a buffet lunch at the casino. The trip went very smoothly and we hope to provide more opportunities like this in the future.

York , PA- First Capital Federal Credit Union officially broke ground on its new South York branch, located at 2602 Course Road in York Township, at 1:30 this afternoon. Local dignitaries, senior managers and board members took part in the festivities. Dennis Flickinger, First Capital’s President/CEO welcomed everyone to the ceremony and spoke about First Capital’s vision for the future. Stewart Cluck of TKS Architects followed him with an overview of the ‘green’ features the new branch will utilize. He also spoke about how First Capital is leading the way in York County’s ‘green’ movement with the first targeted Gold LEED rating certification. Cluck was followed by Stewart Olewiler III, Board Chairman, who spoke about First Capital’s involvement in the community. Representative Ron Miller rounded out the speakers by telling guests how excited he was to see the end results and how proud he is to have First Capital in York County.

The groundbreaking ceremony concluded with local dignitaries, senior managers and board members posing with a shovel for a photo. Everyone was then invited to enjoy refreshments and was given a First Capital ‘green’ bag to take home with him or her.

The new South York branch is scheduled to open in early 2009.

Photo (left to right): Bill Pacacha, VP of Member Relations; Lori Murphy, South York Branch Manager; Fred Cluck, Henderson Construction; Sue DeStephano, VP of Lending; Ed Fadely, VP of Administration; Jeremey Sterner, VP of IT; Kevin Linden, VP of Finance; Tom Clippinger, Board Vice Chairman; Dennis Flickinger, President/CEO; Frank Zeak, Board Member; Stewart Cluck, TKS Architects; Stewart Olewiler III, Board Chairman; Doug Hoke, County Commissioner; Chris Reilly, Vice President/County Commissioner; Rep. Ron Miller, 93 rd District

York , PA : Earlier in the year, First Capital Federal Credit Union decided to sponsor a York Revolution baseball game. We were given several dates to choose from, but the one that stood out was the Wedding Night, August 23, 2008. It was months later the bride and groom’s names were announced. Without our knowledge, or theirs, the York Revolution selected one of First Capital’s employees for this honor.

On Saturday, Kelly Chocinsky, a Member Service Representative at our South York office ( 951 S. Queen St., York), married her fiancé, Adam Staub, at the game. Dennis Flickinger, First Capital’s President/CEO had the honor of throwing out the First Pitch. He also presented a gift to the couple during the game. Marketing Director, Tara Houser, helped set off the fireworks by pushing the ceremonial plunger.

York , PA -Celebrating another milestone! In less than two months, First Capital Federal Credit Union has given out another ONE MILLION dollars in Freedom Checks. Freedom Checks, created in November, are blank checks members can sign over to their auto dealer when they purchase a car. The check then activates the members’ pre-approved loan. “It’s amazing how this product has taken off in the last several months,” says Sue DeStephano, VP of Lending. “This is an exciting product and we’re glad our members are taking advantage of it.”

First Capital Federal Credit Union is a $93.5 million asset-size, credit union with 19,000 members based in York, PA. Founded in 1954 as S. Morgan Smith Credit Union, First Capital has merged and grown, and continues to work closely with 400 companies and organizations throughout York County and across the country.

York , PA - As many of you’ve heard, IndyMac Federal Bank based in California was taken over Friday by federal regulators. The impact from the bank failure is that some customers have more than $100,000 in their accounts and exceed the FDIC deposit insurance coverage. The FDIC states it will cover the losses above $100,000, but only at 50% of the excess amount. For someone with $200,000 in an individual account, they will get their $100,000 plus 50% of the second $100,000, or $150,000. They will lose $50,000!

What makes us different from the banks or even other credit unions in the area; we provide ALL of our members with Excess Share Insurance. First Capital Federal Credit Union is ONE of 13 credit unions in the state and the ONLY one in York County to offer this benefit. What it means is that First Capital provides $250,000 of additional private insurance on accounts that exceed the maximum level of insurance coverage provided by the National Credit Union Administration. ESI requires a financial institution to meet high qualifying standards to obtain the additional coverage. And we have been offering it since February 1997!

At First Capital, members are automatically insured up to $350,000 per account and at no cost! A quick example: a couple with (two) individual accounts and a joint account are insured up to $400,000 with the NCUA and an additional $1,000,000 with ESI, for a total of $1.4 million. A bank can not offer private insurance.

Dennis Flickinger, President/CEO says, “Truly, it pays to belong to First Capital, if for no other reason than peace of mind!”

York , PA -Celebrating a milestone! First Capital Federal Credit Union has given out ONE MILLION dollars in Freedom Checks. Freedom Checks, a new product for First Capital, are pre-approved checks members can sign over to their auto dealer when they purchase a car. That way there’s no need to worry about financing; your loan is already secured. To celebrate the monumental occasion, today First Capital gave the lucky member who helped us reach the one million dollar mark , a $50 gift card to Weis and a party complete with cake and balloons. “It’s just our way of showing our members how special they are to us,” says Sue DeStephano, VP of Lending, “This is an exciting product and we’re glad our members are taking advantage of it. We hope many others will too, after all, we’re only getting started!”

York , PA- First Capital Federal Credit Union is very proud to announce that Jami Myers is the $500 college scholarship winner for 2008.

“Jami has a very bright future ahead of her,” says Dennis Flickinger, President/CEO. “We are happy to be able to offer a program that will help superior students like Jami accomplish their educational goals.”

Miss Myers is an A student from Dallastown Area High School. She will enter Shippensburg University this summer. Jami will pursue a degree in elementary education and hopes to become an elementary school teacher when she graduates. Miss Myers is active in the school’s marching band and swim team. She is also an active member in her church choir and youth group. She volunteers at a local soup kitchen, collects canned goods for the homeless and has built homes with Habitat for Humanity.

Congratulations Jami and Good Luck!

First Capital Federal Credit Union raises hundreds of dollars to help in the fight against cancer. On June 14 th and 15 th, the credit union took part in York’s Greatest Yard Sale held at the York Fairgrounds. This year, First Capital employees not only helped work the yard sale, but sold items donated by staff members and committed the money raised to the York Cancer Center. Today, Linda Thompson, Human Resources Manager and Tara Houser, Director of Marketing, gave a check for $442.45 to the York Cancer Center. “Cancer has touched the lives of many families, friends and members, that’s why the First Capital employees have committed to making this an annual event…to help those in need in their battle with this disease,” says Thompson. ““It’s all about people helping people.”

It’s thanks to the quick thinking by two First Capital Federal Credit Union employees a woman wanted for at least one other drive-off in the area, has been arrested. Around 7 p.m. on April 17, 2008, Gidget Smith and Tracey Hufnagle noticed a girl pull into the FCFCU parking lot on Kenneth Road in West ManchesterTownship, and remove the license plate from her car. Gidget and Tracey became suspicious when she then drove over to Rutters to pump gasoline into her car. The two quickly called Rutters to warn them of a possible drive-off. A Rutters employee went out to talk to the girl and she pulled up to the doors as though she was going to pay for the gas. After the employee went back inside, the girl left without paying. What she didn’t expect, however, the employee followed her and got her license plate number when she stopped to put her license plate back on. The employee called police and we’re told police caught the woman a short distance away. It’s that kind of teamwork that makes all the difference.

Great job by our own First Capital Watch Dogs!

2007 York, Pennsylvania Leaders

You only have to know two words; "Who's Who," to know which businesses in York are recognized most often among area residents. Now in its second year, the Who's Who in York Business leaders have been announced and…

For the 2 nd year in a row, yours truly –
First Capital Federal Credit Union has been voted as the Who’s Who in Business York 2007 for York Credit Unions!!

This distinguished annual program, and the associated recognition that goes with it, is the result of months of research conducted through telephone surveys. Polk-Lepson Research Group of York, an independent market research firm asks the questions and then compiles the responses from a random sample of households all across the York County.

Created to celebrate local business leadership, The Who's Who program seeks to reward local businesses for developing strong and memorable relationships with their customers.

First Capital FCU would like to thank the York community for voting us the 2nd year in a row as, your “Who’s Who York” Credit Union! We have loved serving York County for the last 53 years and look forward to many more years to come!