A local television station WJXT-TV recently shared with viewers how credit unions make a difference in the business lending arena.

During an interview with The Morning Show on WJXT-TV, Kathy Heister, co-owner of the new St. Augustine Aquarium in St. Augustine, Fla. explained the role 121 Financial played in helping to open the doors to her new facility. 

Despite her aquarium not being the typical business model of a restaurant or a trucking firm, the Jacksonville, Fla.-based credit union found a way to help her realize her dream with a loan through the SBA. David Marovich, vice president of business services at the $494 million credit union walked the hosts through the loan process Heister went through to build her new facility.

He explained that his credit union makes loans to many different types of small businesses, from industrial tank cleaners to golf courses, and that his division works closely to help various business get established financially.

The big hit of the television segment was when Heister brought out her starfish from the portable saltwater tank. The television host and Marovich volunteered to handle the fish so they too could be seen on TV.