LOS ANGELES — Thanks to First City Credit Union, downtown Corvina streets were once again filled with music from the popular Bluesapalooza/Thunderfest event.
In danger of cancellation, due to cuts in city funding, the credit union stepped in as the event's primary sponsor.
"Bluesapalooza/Thunderfest was a fantastic experience for us," said Debbi Minero, First City CU's West Covina branch manager. "It was a lot fun, and was a great way to get our name out to the community. Our name and logo were on everything, including all banners, ads, tickets, programs, and the stages. Plus, we had three booths there to meet and greet attendees and take account applications."
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First City was also provided with a supply of event t-shirts, which were given to anyone who applied for the credit union's newly-launched Visa Platinum credit card. Some 35 credit card applications were submitted that day, and of a number new memberships have opened since that can be directly attributed to the event, according to Minero.
"The city of Covina approached us last summer, and told us that the event would be cancelled, unless they found a major sponsor," said First City CU Director of Communications Tom Thompson. "We certainly hadn't budgeted for such an expense, but we saw it as a great opportunity. So we juggled some of our advertising and marketing dollars around, and I'm happy and proud to say that we were able to help."
According to Minero the outpouring of support and appreciation from attendees was overwhelming.
"So many people came up to our booth and thanked us for saving the event," said Minero. "We've also received letters, including several from members who live in the area. That's especially nice. It makes all of our hard work worthwhile."
The event drew over 35,000 blues and car enthusiasts from all over Southern California.
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