The $1.6 billion, 150,000-member NusendaCredit Union has begun rewarding new members and newmortgage holders with a free night in one of several noted NewMexico hotels.

The federally chartered, Albuquerque, N.M.-based credit unionwill award the free night in one of the hotels and resorts owned byHeritage Hotels and Resorts – which the credit union identified inan announcement as the largest, independently owned hotel chain inthe state – when members open a checking account or close a homeequity loan or mortgage.

“We are excited to announce this first-ever partnership withHeritage Hotels & Resorts,” Nusenda Credit UnionCEO TerryLaudick said. “As a credit union serving this state since 1936,we are dedicated to New Mexico communities. We hope this promotionwill encourage people to discover new aspects of New Mexico'sunique culture and beauty.”

The hotel properties include four resorts in Santa Fe: TheEldorado Hotel and Spa, Hotel Chimayo de Santa Fe, Hotel St.Francis and Lodge at Santa Fe, according to the announcement.Albuquerque hotels included The Hotel Albuquerque and Nativo Lodge,and Hotel Ecanto de Las Cruces.

“We are thrilled to partner with Nusenda Credit Union on thisunique opportunity,” Heritage Hotels & Resorts, Inc. Founderand CEO Jim Long said. “We hope to drive both new interest andcustomers to our properties throughout the state and also encourageour customers to bank with Nusenda Credit Union to be eligible forthis promotion. As Nusenda Credit Union and Heritage Hotels &Resorts both celebrate all that represents New Mexico, we believethis partnership will only enhance the experience we can offer ourcustomers.”