Worth Noting

In NY, $500K In Scholarships

LATHAM, N.Y.-Credit unions in New York, along with the state league, awarded more than 510,000 in scholarships to members who graduated high school this year and were beginning their college studies in the fall of 2004. The New York State CU League's program offers scholarships based on students' outstanding academic, leadership and extracurricular achievements.

Interest-Free Loans For Teachers

STAFFORD, Va.-Apple FCU has struck a deal with local school officials to provide interest-free loans up to $2,500 to first-year teachers in exchange for the use of two classrooms to set up an in-school branch. The new branch has already signed 150 new members since opening in June. The branch is also being used by employees in other area school districts which are part of the credit union's field of membership.

Ex-Employee Gets 11 Years

MONTEREY, Calif.-A man who was fired from his job at Monterey CU was sentenced to 11 years in prison last week for his failed attempt to rob the credit union branch here last March.

Douglas Chase, 34, entered the credit union with a loaded 12-gauge shotgun and a backpack full of ammunition and cut tape, then grabbed the supervisor who had fired him from his job. But the supervisor and two other employees were able to wrestle Chase to the floor and hold him until police arrived. Chase was convicted on two counts of assault with a firearm and one count of attempted robbery.

MCUN Draws 440 To Meeting

BRAINERD, Minn.-The Minnesota Credit Union Network (MnCUN) drew some 440 people to its annual Fall Conference at Madden's Resort & Conference Center here. In all, 46 CUs and 27 service organizations were represented. "Fall Conference is a great chance for our member credit unions to enjoy a weekend at the lake, while at the same time, taking advantage of the educational sessions and networking opportunities available," said Neil Christy, Vice President of Education & Credit Union Development.

The conference featured seven breakout sessions and general sessions covering creating a succession plan, member satisfaction, habits of success, and an economic look at the future of credit unions. John Wodele, most widely known for being former Gov. Jesse Ventura's key advisor, was the keynoter.

HACU Offering New HSAs

JACKSONVILLE, Fla.-HealthAmerica Credit Union said it has begun offering the newly authorized Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). The accounts allow qualified depositors to save, tax-free, for approved medical expenses. Employers may also establish HSAs for their employees.

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