Worth Noting

Privacy Now Calif. Ballot Initiative

SACRAMENTO, Calif.-A ballot initiative addressing privacy issues has again been introduced in California. The initiative, which is more restrictive than legislation that has the backing of the state's credit unions, is being backed by a consumer group calling itself "The Californians for Prvacy Now." The initiative is a year away from going before voters. A privacy bill (SB 1) in the state legislature, which nearly passed similar legislation in the last session, has already passed the state Senate and is now awaiting committee assignment in the state Assembly. The bill is sponsored by Sen. Jackie Speier (D-San Mateo), and would require CUs and other financial institutions to obtain clear permission from consumers before sharing private information with third parties.

Louisiana CUs Plan Media Buy

HARAHAN, La.-More than $250,000 has been raised by Louisiana's credit unions to sponsor a public awareness campaign update. The Louisiana league, based on input from an advisory group, is working on revisions to TV and radio ads. The ads, which will focus on generating new members for credit unions, will encourage the public to call an 800-number or log onto the campaign website to find the credit union that is right for them. The first run of ads, which will air during shows such as "Friends," "Jeopardy," "Oprah," and local news, will begin airing prior to Memorial Day, with the second phase of advertisements airing in October and November.

Discovery Early Bird Expires April 4

MADISON, Wis.-Discounted registration rates for CUNA Mutual Group's Discovery Conference 2003 will end Friday, April 4. The 8th annual Discovery Conference will be held June 25-28,at the Boca Raton Resort & Club in Florida. Those registered by April 4 will receive a discounted rate of $750, with further discounts available when three or more attend from one institution. Rates increase to $850 on April 5.

For info: www.cunamutual.com, or (800) 937-2644, x6891.

MPFCU's Don Major To Retire

AUBURN HILLS, Mich.-After 32 years of service, Don Major, president and chief executive officer of Motor Parts FCU, is retiring effective April 11. Heidi Kassab, currently executive VP, will succeed Major. During Major's career, MPFCU was named the fastest growing credit union in the metro-Detroit area by Crain's Detroit Business four times between 1995 and 2002. Major, 59, was named CEO in 1984. During his career Major taught Volunteer Achievement Program courses for the Michigan league, and was active in a variety of volunteer roles.

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