Freedom Staff Make Gas Mask Dash

Dash Part of U.S. Army Aberdeen Proving Ground’s 100th Anniversary!

Freedom’s Edgewood base is located at the U.S. Army’s Aberdeen Proving Ground Edgewood area. So it was a short drive for staff to take part in an Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG) 100th Anniversary Celebration event — the Gas Mask Dash!

The U.S. Army Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC) sponsored the Dash, which was open to the public. Participants could either run a 5k or walk 2 miles. The glorious weather on April 27 made taking part a pleasure!

Freedom was on site to provide Freedom backpacks to attendees, and to provide information and support!

Participants were also treated to a bit of gas mask history, with a display of masks over the years. Even a Navy goggle mask and a K9 mask were there for viewing.

What a wonderful way to celebrate 100 years!

Going Green in Bel Air

Freedom Staff Contribute to Arbor Day Efforts

Freedom staff at Department of Natural Resources tree planting event, Arbor Day 2017 — **From L to R, Rachel Schmidt, Holly Downey, Susan Tannahill, Michele Young, Sharon Mellor, and Mike MacPherson**

Freedom staff pitched in this Arbor Day, planting trees as part of our continuing effort to better our community. The Department of Natural Resources Arbor Day event allowed us to help plant the trees and shrubs that earned Bel Air the “Tree City” designation.

Two hundred of the trees planted on April 14 were donated by Freedom as a result of our “go green” electronic statement campaign of 2016. We donated trees to the DNR on behalf of those members who eliminated paper waste by going electronic. Rather than plant many saplings, we decided to plant fewer, larger trees to increase the odds that they survive and thrive.

Rachel Schmidt_Arbor Day 2017 — **Rachel Schmidt wrapping a sapling in protective mesh**

Rows of planted trees_Arbor Day 2017 — **Rows of saplings planted during the Arbor Day event**

Standing-group-shot-Arbor-Day-2017_resized_web — **Freedom staff pitch in to mulch around a newly planted tree**

Annual Meeting a Great Success

Members Enjoy Annual Meeting at Ripken Stadium

Freedom’s 2017 Annual Meeting was April 11 at Ripken Stadium. Prior to the meeting’s start, members enjoyed music provided by the C. Milton Wright Jazz Band. A hors d’oeuvres buffet and drinks were served. In addition, several staffed “stations” situated throughout the venue provided members more information about our offerings and answered questions, particularly about electronic services. Upon entering the event, members received a ticket for door prize drawings and a card that could be marked at each of these five stations.

Proceedings

As the Annual Meeting began, members met members of our Board of Directors and Supervisory Committee. Next, those in attendance reached a quorum to approve the notes from last year’s meeting. Following the formalities, Board Chairman, Mike Kaiser, and President/CEO, Michael MacPherson, each made brief remarks. Mr. MacPherson gave an overview of Freedom’s state of affairs, he discussed our mission and plans for the future. This discussion was followed by a new video providing a general overview of the Credit Union — who we are, what our values are, and what we can do for members. The evening’s business concluded with a question-and-answer session between members and the President/CEO.

Freedom's Web Strategist Rachel Schmidt — **Freedom’s Web Strategist Rachel Schmidt enjoys refreshments at this year’s annual meeting**

Patrice-Ricciardi Bob-Wheland at 2017 Annual Meeting — **Left to right, SVP of Business Banking Robert Wehland , Business Development Specialist Patrice Ricciardi**

Prizes

As a gift to all in attendance, members received a plush Freedom throw blanket. Members enjoyed replenished refreshments throughout the evening’s proceedings. To wrap up the evening, Mr. MacPherson drew random winners for each of 10 door prizes. Prizes were gift cards worth $25 apiece from a variety of local stores and restaurants. Finally, all full participation cards were collected and Mr. MacPherson drew a winner for the grand prize of $100!

New Faces

Several new attendees came out to enjoy this year’s annual meeting. We love to meet our members, and hope to see more next year! Please remember that our Annual Meetings are open to all members, and always take place in the evening. These meetings provide a great opportunity to learn about Freedom and get your questions answered while enjoying a great evening out!