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!

Freedom Loses Long-Time Advocate

In Memory Of Hugo Biermann, 1940 – 2017

Hugo Biermann, former Freedom board member and chairman of the board, who was active in various committees, passed away January 7.

Retired Colonel Biermann was 77 and a resident of Bel Air. He was a 1958 graduate of Woodstown High NJ. He earned an AA Degree in Applied Science from Salem County Technical Institute, and in 1974, he graduated with a BS Degree from Wilmington College.

He retired in 1997 with 34 years of service as a civilian employee of the Department of the Army. He also served as an officer with the Army Reserve with 29 years of service. He and his wife Elaine had two children, six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Hugo served as a volunteer on Freedom’s Credit Committee from 2000 to 2004. He was a member of the Board of Directors from 2004 through 2009. He served on the Supervisory Committee as Chairman from 2004 to 2006. He was a long-time member of Freedom.

Recap: 2016 Annual Meeting of Members

63rd Annual Meeting of Members Held on April 12, 2016

Freedom held its 63^rd. Annual Meeting of Members on April 12 at the McFaul Center in Bel Air. To begin the evening, attendees received a small gift and mingled over refreshments.

Starting the meeting, cadets from the Maryland National Guard, Freestate ChalleNGe Academy presented the flag. This was followed by employee Jay Jones’ fantastic rendition of the national anthem. Who knew Freedom had such multi-talented employees?

In a Board of Directors overview, Mike Kaiser, Board Chair, briefly touched on the Credit Union’s annual report, “Belong To Something Special”, and reviewed last year’s activities. Mr. Kaiser also thanked members, volunteers and employees for contributing to the Credit Union’s success. Following Mr. Kaiser, Board Director George Heidelmaier, talked about 2015’s sponsorships, donations and employee volunteerism. Nick Pindale, a member of the Supervisory Committee, reported on the Credit Union’s financial condition. Additional Board members Ben Casole, Vice Chairman; Jim Church, Secretary; Tony Belcastro, Director; Ronnie Davis, Director; Lisa Ermatinger, Director; Rick Gerety, Treasurer; and Kirk Kinder, Director also participated.

In his keynote speech, Mike MacPherson, President/CEO, traced the history of Credit Unions to Germany in the mid-1800s. Mr. MacPherson noted Freedom continues to operate by the Credit Union principles of “People Helping People” and “Not-For-Profit, Not-For-Charity, But for Service.” After his presentation, Mr. MacPherson and Mr. Kaiser answered questions from members in attendance.

Following the business at hand, 12 door prize winners were chosen. Prizes consisted of gift cards, ranging from restaurants to Amazon online. In a nod to spring, prize recipients also took home small plants in cheerful ceramic pots.

Board Business Summary:

This year’s Nominating Committee slate of candidates for the Board of Directors was approved–Jim Church, Richard Gerety and Kirk Kinder were each re-elected to a three-year term.
Officers were appointed for the 2016/2017 year. Mike Kaiser returns as Chair. Richard Gerety will serve as Vice Chair. Jim Church will serve as Secretary and Tony Belcastro will serve as Treasurer.