Winter 2026 RRCU Chronicle

Winter 2026 CEO Report

Dear RRCU Members,

What a year it has been for RRCU—not only for our members, but for our board and employees as well. We are proud of the progress we’ve made together at RRCU. 

One of the most significant milestones was the successful transition to a new, state-of-the-art banking system. This upgrade replaces technology that served us for over 40 years and positions us to deliver even better service for years to come. It was a major undertaking that required significant time and resources to implement, and we appreciate your patience and support throughout the process.

With this foundation in place, we are excited to focus on enhancing your experience in 2026 and beyond. Here are some of the improvements you can look forward to:

• Enhanced Debit Card Features: Enjoy greater control with options to turn your card on or off, report a lost card, or set travel advisories—all from your mobile app or online banking.
• Instant Digital Debit Cards: Access your card instantly through your mobile wallet, wherever you are.
• Improved ITM Functions: This year, you’ll see features like contactless transactions, viewing your last five transactions, and simplified authentication.
• Personalized Support: Our new chat feature is now available in online banking and the mobile app that makes it easier to get answers and complete transactions.
• Streamlined Holiday Loan Process: Faster, simpler applications to help you when you need it most.
• Greenlight Debit Card Integration: Soon, managing and transferring money to your children will be easier than ever, right from our mobile app.

These are just a few of the exciting enhancements we’re implementing to serve you better.

Thank you for being a valued member of RRCU. Your trust and loyalty are the foundation of our success, and we look forward to continuing to grow with you.

Sincerely,
Brad Bailey
President/CEO 

Poteau (OK) Grand Opening

We’re thrilled to announce that our newest branch in Poteau, Oklahoma is officially open! On December 5, 2025, we celebrated with a ribbon cutting alongside the Poteau Chamber of Commerce, marking an exciting milestone in our mission to serve more members across the region.

Stop by and see us at 2208 N. Broadway, Poteau, OK 74953. Meet our dedicated team and discover how we can help with everything from savings and checking accounts to loans and financial planning. We’re here to make your financial journey easier, smarter, and more rewarding.

Your goals matter—and now, we’re even closer to help you reach them.

Spanish Translation Now Available

RRCU’s website now includes a Spanish translation toggle, making it easier for Spanish‑speaking members to access important information online. This complements the Spanish option already available with the Online and Mobile Banking platforms. We’re also beginning to introduce in‑branch translation tablets so associates can assist members in real time when bilingual staff are not available. Together, these tools help us serve our community more quickly and effectively.

Board of Directors Nominees

Frank Buchanan - Member for 23 years; Mr. Buchanan graduated with a BSE degree from Southern Arkansas University and has an MIS degree from Texas A&M University, Texarkana.  Mr. Buchanan has served as Chairman on the credit union’s Supervisory Committee for 13 years. Mr. Buchanan retired from the education field after 35 years teaching and administration in Texarkana, AR, Ashdown, AR and New Boston, TX.  Mr. Buchanan serves on the New Boston Zoning & Development Committee, New Boston Noon Lions Club, the New Boston Gideon Camp, and is active in his church.   Mr. Buchanan and his wife, Janet, live in New Boston, Texas.

Selena Jefferies - Member for six years, Selena Jefferies is a Certified Public Accountant and Senior Lecturer of Accounting at Texas A&M University–Texarkana, where she teaches in the College of Business and has served as a Faculty Senator and Chair of the Budget Committee. She holds an MBA in Management (2025), an M.S. in Accounting (2009), and a BBA in Accounting, Magna Cum Laude (1997), all from TAMUT.

Ms. Jefferies has over 25 years of experience in financial oversight. She previously served as Audit Manager at Wilf & Henderson, P.C., CPAs and continues to operate a private accounting consulting practice for small businesses. She has served on the credit union’s Supervisory Committee for more than five years and holds the Certified Credit Union Supervisory Committee Member (CCUSC) credential.

An active community leader and graduate of Leadership Texarkana, Ms. Jefferies has held Treasurer roles with several local nonprofit organizations, is a past President of the Texarkana Chapter of CPAs, and currently serves on the Leadership Council of the Texas Society of CPAs. She resides in Texarkana, Texas, and is a musician, Master Gardener, and mother of two daughters.

David Walls - Member for 33 years; retired educator, served as principal, coach, and teacher for 37 years.  Mr. Walls has served as Asst. Vice President at Atlanta Federal Savings & Loan; served as Branch Manager at Security Savings, Atlanta, Texas.  Mr. Walls graduated with a Master’s degree from Texas A&M University-Commerce and holds a Superintendent Certification.  Mr. Walls is currently a sales agent with Superior Realty.  Mr. Walls and his wife, Lou, live in Texarkana, Texas, have a daughter, Amy Barber, a son, Matthew Walls, two grandchildren, Bailey and Brooks, a great grandson, Briggs, and are members of Highland Park Baptist Church.

Celebrating Vicki Westmoreland: A Legacy of Service at Red River Credit Union

By Vickie M. Bryan, Chief Operating Officer

After more than four decades of devoted service, we celebrate Vicki Westmoreland—a leader, mentor, and unwavering champion for our members—on her retirement from Red River Credit Union.

From Teller to Trailblazer

Vicki Westmoreland began her career with Red River Credit Union in May 1984 as a part time teller, quickly transitioning to full time as she proved herself indispensable on the front line. In 1990, she was promoted to Head Teller, and five years later became Department Supervisor—roles in which her natural leadership and steady hand set the standard for operational excellence. Seven years after that, she found her calling in Member Service, advancing to Manager and then Assistant Vice President, where members routinely sought her out by name for help they trusted.

In 2010, Vicki Westmoreland expanded her impact as a Loan Officer and, two years later, stepped in as Branch Manager at our Highway 59 location. Ultimately, she returned to her true passion—leading our frontline and service teams—as Director of Teller Operations and Member Services, the role she holds today.

Vicki Westmoreland guided Red River Credit Union through major changes with calm, clarity, and a steadfast focus on members. Known for her open-door leadership and practical coaching, she was a trusted mentor and friend who made Summerhill feel like home.

Honoring Vicki’s Retirement

We recently gathered to celebrate Vicki Westmoreland’s 41 years of service at Red River Credit Union. The event, held on December 30 at Summerhill, was filled with heartfelt stories, laughter, and gratitude for the incredible legacy she leaves behind. It was a wonderful opportunity for colleagues and friends to express appreciation and wish her the very best in her next chapter.
 

Life Insurance with RRCU Financial Services

As we head into 2026, many of us are committing to healthier habits, better budgeting, and fresh starts. But there’s one resolution that brings peace of mind all year long: reviewing your life insurance. Life changes fast and your coverage should keep up. Whether you’re starting a policy or updating an old one, a quick check-in now can protect the people you love most later.
Let RRCU Financial Services help you make 2026 the year you secure your family’s future.

Mortgage Lending: New Year, New Home?

With RRCU’s mortgage loan products, buying or building a new home can be easier than you think!

Down Payment Assistance:
The “Help Grant” becomes available January 1st. This grant provides up to $20,000 for qualified members (based on income and first-time homebuyer status). These funds can be used for the down payment and/or closing costs for first-time homebuyers whose income falls at or below the area median income for their county.

Home Equity Lending:
Take advantage of the equity you have in your home for home improvements, debt consolidation, etc. Both 1st and 2nd liens are available. Contact one of our loan officers for more information!

Construction Financing:
RRCU’s construction financing options offer a one-time close product that saves you on closing costs by consolidating both construction and permanent financing into one loan. We allow 12 months for construction and then modify it into a permanent loan when construction is complete. If you are planning on building a new home in 2026, come see one of our loan officers to answer specific questions and help arrange the financing of your dream home!

Contact us today:
Email: MortgageDept@rrcu.com
Phone: 903-735-3003

Commercial Services: New Year's Resolutions for your Business?

With RRCU’s Commercial Services, operating your business has never been easier! 

Bills and Get Paid
Send invoices and receive payments all from your RRCU online account. Autobooks has the tools to create a professional invoice and send to your customers in minutes. With the tap-to-pay option, your customers can pay their invoice using debit or credit card, depositing directly into your commercial checking account.

Simplify Payroll
Managing payroll can take time away from growing your business. Make payday a breeze with RRCU’s Commercial ACH Control. No longer will you need to print paper checks. With direct deposit, money is deposited into employee accounts electronically on your payday. 

Point of Sale Solutions
Get more done than ever before with card payments, cash, and ApplePay Point of Sale systems. Manage your business, create reports, and make a sale from anywhere using Clover’s mobile app and virtual terminal technologies.  Take your business online with Clover’s eCommerce capabilities.

Lending*
Outgrown your office space? Need a new vehicle or equipment? Contact a member of the lending team to discuss our commercial lending suite of products. From commercial real estate to auto and equipment, line of credits, and much more, let RRCU kickstart your new year.

Contact us today: CommercialServices@rrcu.com or 903-735-3000.

*With approved credit.

RRCU Fraud Fighter's Handbook

No one wakes up and says “Today, I want to become the victim of a scam.” It sounds silly right, but what if someone posts a message on social media that references wanting a relationship? Maybe a few weeks later the person receives a message from an interested party. Doesn’t sound quite as silly now. In today’s world, scammers will use any tool available to swindle individuals out of their hard-earned money. We hate to see our members become victims, which is why we use every tool in our arsenal to protect them. We also know that sometimes an educated member is the best tool for fighting back against scams. Even though we are here for you, protecting yourself can be just as important as the Credit Union protecting you. 

Today, let’s talk about Romance/Sweetheart Scams. The one that no one wants to admit to, but one in which many fall victim. In romance scams, a criminal uses a fake online identity to gain a victim's affection and trust. The scammer then uses the illusion of a romantic or close relationship to manipulate and/or steal from the victim.¹

The scammer wants to establish a relationship as quickly as possible, endear himself/herself to the victim, and gain trust. Scammers may propose marriage and make plans to meet in person, but that will never happen. Eventually, they will ask for money.
The criminals who carry out romance scams are experts at what they do and will seem genuine, caring, and believable. Con artists are present on most dating and social media sites.

Scam artists often say they are in the building and construction industry and are engaged in projects outside the U.S. That makes it easier to avoid meeting in person—and more plausible when they ask for money for a medical emergency or unexpected legal fee.
If someone you meet online needs your bank account information to deposit money, they are most likely using your account to carry out other theft and fraud schemes.

Protect Yourself

• Be careful what you post and make public online. Scammers can use details shared on social media and dating sites to better understand and target you.
• Research the person’s photo and profile using online searches to see if the image, name, or details have been used elsewhere.
• Go slowly and ask lots of questions.
• Beware if the individual seems too perfect or quickly asks you to leave a dating service or social media site to communicate directly.
• Beware if the individual attempts to isolate you from friends and family or requests inappropriate photos or financial information that could later be used to extort you.
• Beware if the individual promises to meet in person but then always comes up with an excuse why he or she can’t. If you haven’t met the person after a few months, for whatever reason, you have good reason to be suspicious.
• Never send money to anyone you have only communicated with online or by phone.

¹FBI, Romance Scams, https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-frauds-and-scams/romance-scams

Community Corner

2025 Awards

We are excited about the recognition and support for RRCU and the following branches: 

• ALT Magazine's Readers' Choice 2025 - "Best Credit Union"
• Texarkana Gazette's Readers' Choice 2025 - "Best Credit Union" and "Best Mortgage Services"
• Bowie County Now Readers' Choice 2025 - "Best Credit Union"
• Cass County Citizen's Journal Readers' Choice 2025 - "Best Credit Union"