US Federal Credit Union Helps Residents Relive the Old West

NORTHFIELD, Minn. - Thanks to U.S. Federal Credit Union, a new band of cowboys will ride into town here as part of an annual "Defeat of Jesse James Days" event. Slated for September 10, the event celebrates when citizens of Northfield foiled a robbery attempt by Jesse James and his gang in 1876. As part of the festivities Hollywood cowboy stars from yesteryear will be on hand for a pair of panel symposiums, discussing their work on stage and screen with colorful anecdotes, live music, and memories they've shared with some of the biggest names in entertainment history. US Federal Credit Union Vice President Marketing & Business Development Marty Kelly says the event is more than just a sponsorship- with a new branch in Northfield he wanted the credit union to be heavily involved in the community event. "We came up with the entire idea [of Hollywood cowboys] and pitched it to the Northfield group that coordinates the Defeat of Jesse James Days," said Kelly. "We told them we'd take care of everything if they found us a venue, promoted this in their materials and made us major sponsors of the weekend celebration, which draws more than 100,000 individuals." Kelly credits his father for the inspiration. "My father has collected old films since before I was born. He's amassed a rather impressive collection, and has gotten to know many cowboy stars from old movies and is good friends with more than a few," said Kelly. "So we thought it would be great to invite a group of them, many of which have played James Gang members in film or on television out here for a special event". The symposium has been designated as a Defeat of Jesse James Days `button event' and requires the additional purchase of a special event button ($3.00) for entry. Buttons allow free or reduced cost access to numerous other events over the weekend. To help promote the event US Federal Credit Union has posted WANTED posters all over Northfield and event tickets and buttons are available exclusively through its Northfield branch. -mdigiovanni@cutimes.com