A Special Thanks to all and Especially to John

We at Keesler Federal cannot thank our credit union “family” members enough for their help in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The special relationship which exists between credit unions in helping each other in times of need has always been there, but it is amazing to see how quickly this support system springs into action. Even though the entire phone system along the Mississippi Gulf Coast was destroyed during the storm, the offers of help through alternative means quickly began to come in. One of the first people to call was John Davis, President/CEO of Pen Air FCU in Pensacola. Since John had gone through Hurricane Ivan last year, he knew the importance of not only providing support operationally but also in helping the employees and volunteers of Keesler. He and John Ochs, his EVP/COO, were able to deliver much needed cash to support office openings; he provided space at his offices in Pensacola for us to establish a remote processing center; he loaned us his motor branch to provide member services in Waveland where our office sustained major damages; and he arranged for the collection of clothing and other needed items for employees of Keesler Federal. We have had over 100 employees and volunteers whose homes or apartments were either totally destroyed or are uninhabitable. I would like to also thank three other individuals who have personally provided tremendous support for us. Charles Elliott, President/CEO of the Mississippi Credit Union Association, has been very helpful in interfacing with CUNA, the CUNA Foundation and other Leagues. Arty Arteaga of the Defense Credit Union Council has also been very helpful in providing support. I would also like to thank Greg Cook, Business Consultant with CUNA Mutual, as well as his associates. Other organizations or groups which have provided great assistance are Payment Systems for Credit Unions; CUNA Mutual; the CEOs and Staffs of EECU in Ft. Worth and Community First Credit Union in Jacksonville; the CEOs of Singing River and Central Sunbelt credit unions in Mississippi; the CEOs of Service, Andrews and State Department credit unions; Delta ECU; The Loan Link Center; Southeast Corporate; Symitar; CUSC Shared Branching; and Credit Union 24. Hopefully, I have not overlooked anyone or any other organizations. All of us at Keesler Federal are eternally grateful to all of you who have helped us during this trying ordeal. Thanks for your concerns, prayers, and support. Scotty Broome President/CEO Keesler Federal Credit Union Biloxi, Miss.