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For Immediate Release Contact: Patrick Harris Director of Media Relations Ohio Credit Union League pharris@ohiocul.org 800-486-2917

ZENITH08 Welcomes Ohio CU Leaders to Columbus

Convention features prestigious keynoters, dozens of education sessions, and networking opportunities

Dublin, Ohio (April 22, 2008) – Nearly 700 credit union leaders from Ohio and 300 exhibitors will descend on Columbus for the state’s annual credit union convention, ZENITH08, April 24 - 25.  The state’s largest gathering of credit unions boasts an agenda attractive to credit union CEOs, staff, board members, and guests.  The range of educational topics include enhancing technology for member services, benefits and drawbacks of mergers, “greening” your operations, tapping key members, and capitalization. 

A new feature of ZENITH08 is Speed Networking, an opportunity for credit unions of similar asset size to discuss issues in a facilitated, one-on-one setting.  Similar to speed dating, the time controlled format opens the door to further dialogue and promotes sharing of success stories and best practices.  Also new is a consumer focus group that will analyze what everyday Ohioans think and understand about credit unions and the philosophy behind cooperative financial institutions.

“This is undoubtedly the premiere event for Ohio credit unions,” said Paul Mercer, President of the Ohio Credit Union System.  “ZENITH creates an amazing atmosphere conducive to sharing best practices, and when participants return home they are re-energized and better prepared to address their members’ needs.” 

Renowned entrepreneur Angie Hicks, who started Angie’s List, will discuss growing a small business at Thursday’s Grand Session.  Former National Wegner Memorial Award winner Carol Schillios and Paul Hazen, President/CEO of the National Cooperative Business Association, will address ZENITH08 attendees on Friday.  State and federal regulators will host intimate sessions to update credit unions on the priorities of the overseeing agencies.

ZENITH will also serve as the final destination of the 2008 Credit Unions for Kids: Marching Miles for Miracle Kids, a fundraiser for the nine children’s hospitals serving Ohioans.  Ohio Governor Ted Strickland will welcome the marchers to ZENITH after their 19-day trek from Toledo to Columbus.  This is the second year for the statewide credit union fundraiser which hopes to raise $100,000.  Donations are still being accepted at www.marchingmiles.com.

Attendees will also enjoy a live taping of the Home and Family Finance radio show, nearly 100 exhibits in the ZENITH08 expo hall, and “Big Picture” sessions discussing the past, present and future of Ohio credit unions and how small and midsized credit unions thrive in today’s financial services market.

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The Ohio Credit Union League, with offices in Dublin, is a state trade association representing 438 credit unions. Credit unions are not-for-profit financial institutions owned and democratically controlled by their members. Ohio credit unions provide savings, loans, and other consumer financial services to their 2.6 million members. To learn more, visit www.OhioCreditUnions.org.