In this episode, host Janet Michael visits the Capon Valley Bank branch in Stephens City to discuss the value of community banking in today's digital age. Melba Thorne shares insights on personalized banking, financial literacy, and how a century-old institution maintains its commitment to local communities.

About Capon Valley Bank

History: Serving communities since 1918, starting in Wardensville, West Virginia
Locations: Five branches across Hardy County (WV) and Frederick County (VA)
New expansion: Sixth branch opening May 2026 on Winchester's north side (across from Texas Roadhouse on Ezra's Lane)
Parent company: Highland Bank Shares (sister bank to Grant County Bank)

Banking Philosophy

"Big bank products with hometown service"
Focus on personal relationships over sales quotas
Loan decisions made locally (no waiting weeks for out-of-state approval)
Treating customers as individuals, not numbers
Goal: "The Chick-fil-A of banking" - knowing customers by name

Services Offered

Personal Banking:

Checking and savings accounts
Home equity lines of credit
Auto loans
Rewards checking with "UChoose Rewards" program
Roundup savings program (automatically rounds purchases to nearest dollar and saves the difference)

Business & Commercial Banking:

New construction lending (residential and commercial)
Commercial lines of credit
Small business startup loans
SBA loans
Agricultural loans
Investment property financing (including Airbnb properties)
Land loans
Renovation loans

Financial Tips

Credit Score Protection:

Limit credit inquiries when car shopping (no more than 2 pulls from dealerships)
Multiple credit pulls can dramatically drop your credit score
Get pre-approved from your bank before visiting dealerships
Target credit score: 680+ (many banks require 700+)

Credit Score Factors:

Too many credit cards can hurt your score
Maxed out credit cards negatively impact your score even if paid on time
One missed payment can drop you below 700
Medical issues, divorce, and life events are considered with context

Smart Money Habits:

Build emergency savings for "rainy days"
Use roundup savings programs to save without thinking about it
Monitor your credit score regularly through banking apps
Don't spend everything left over after paying bills

Community Involvement

Cram the Cruiser: Annual toy drive in December for Toys for Tots (collects 300+ toys per branch)
Partnership with local police and fire departments
School volunteer programs and event support
Sponsorship of local fairs and festivals (Newtown Heritage Weekend, etc.)
Active chamber of commerce participation
Community Leadership Program graduate

Technology & Convenience

Full online banking platform
Mobile banking apps
Online account applications available
Educational learning center on website with product videos
Still encourages in-person visits for personalized service

Contact Information

Website: caponvalleybank.com
Phone: 540-868-1140 Direct line to local branch (no call centers!)
Commercial Lending: Fred Brooks, Commercial Loan Officer

Resources Mentioned

Educational videos and learning center at caponvalleybank.com
Credit score monitoring apps
SBA loan programs