Sign of the Times, Indiana CU's Message Earns It Publicity

It was a simple message below the marquee meant to bring humor to an otherwise serious situation, climbing gas prices.

"We're now offering gas loans," stated the sign that also offered the time and temperature.

And, while it didn't generate any business to speak of, it helped officials learn something very important: People read message boards.

"You wouldn't believe the number of calls we've had from friends, members and people in the community saying tongue in cheek that they'd be up to apply for one," said Duane Nelson, President/CEO of United Federal Credit Union.

He said the message was posted after an informational meeting with his marketing manager about upcoming promotions. "Gas prices are putting a pinch in people's pockets, which is a very serious matter," he said. "We just thought we could add a little levity."

Nelson said the sign would probably run for another week before "running its course on the humor side."

The SEG-based CU has $212 million in assets and is located about 15 miles north of South Bend in a community of about 5,000 people.

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