I want to express my objection and displeasure over the extremely poor choice of the word "bail-out" used in the article regarding the First City Credit Union-SCE Federal Credit Union merger. [The article was posted on CUTimes.com on June 2.]
While it was the reporter's choice and not mine and that it wasn't a quote from me, it nevertheless showed a lack of concern over the negative connotations that the word conjures up with readers. If you are looking for sensationalism, then you got it!
I understand that the editors refused to amend the article to delete reference to this word. All I can imagine is that this shows your arrogance and in ability to admit that you were wrong. I have lost a lot of respect for your publication and realize now that your reporters cannot be trusted to do the right thing.
Dennis J. Huber
President/CEO
SCE Federal Credit Union
Irwindale, Calif.
Editor's note: Credit Union Times stands behind its reporting.
Call to Support 'Finance Radio'
Every Sunday, CUNA is doing something absolutely remarkable for the credit union movement. Yes, in addition to their prayers for all of us, they are also teaching financial values and sharing life-changing information during the hour-long program, "Home and Family Finance Radio."
Each week, Paul Berry, the show's host, chats with a variety of experts discussing a wide-range of issues that are at the forefront of family life, basic issues such as fraud, building credit, managing a checkbook and even establishing a trust. The contribution this show makes to financial literacy is indeed priceless.
In my humble opinion, Mark Wolff, CUNA's senior vice president responsible for the show, is making an outstanding effort for all credit unions by ensuring that the show's discussion truly embraces the values we all share as America's credit unions. If you haven't already done so, take the time to listen. Visit www.cuna.org/initiatives/hff_radio.
As a credit union development educator and public relations professional, I consider "Home and Family Finance Radio" as truly an effective medium for strengthening the perception of credit unions across America. We talk a lot about a credit union national branding campaign, well, maybe "Home and Family Finance Radio" is one way we can all contribute to that process.
But, are we really doing so? Despite the value associated with its content, I'm fearful that we are all missing opportunities to promote the show and its value to our members. Perhaps we might be a bit more creative in finding ways, such as through our own Web sites and member publications, to urge consumers to tune into this treasure chest of financial information.
We are strongest when we work together. Since CUNA has given our industry "Home and Family Finance Radio," maybe now, we in turn, can help grow its audience. Let's do our share to bring our radio program to every home and family throughout America.
Walt Laskos
Director, Public Relations
WesCorp Federal Credit Union
San Dimas, Calif.
