CHICAGO–More than 500 credit union representatives turned out for the second annual “Illinois Credit Union Day” at the Chicago White Sox’s home field, U.S. Cellular Field.
The event, which is aimed at raising awareness of the Illinois credit union movement, also was attended by members of the Illinois Third House and the Illinois Legislative Chicago White Sox Caucus.
Joe Lyons, called a “true supporter of credit unions” by the Illinois CU League, threw out the ceremonial first pitch prior to the game. Lyons, a resident of Chicago, is a well-respected former state lawmaker and volunteer board member of Credit Union 1 for more than 25 years. He most recently served as Illinois State Representative representing the 95th House District from 1996 – 2013, including as assistant majority leader. Shortly thereafter, Lyons began working with the ICUL staff, where he has been serving as a key advocate for Illinois' credit unions at the Illinois General Assembly.
Among the other VIPs who attended the game were approximately 20 state legislators, Illinois State Comptroller Leslie Munger and Illinois State Treasurer Michael W. Frerichs, as well as Cornerstone Credit Union League CEO Dick Ensweiler. Illinois credit unions were also highlighted with a welcome message on the stadium’s main scoreboard during the second inning of the game.
“This event was a tremendous opportunity to highlight Illinois credit unions,” said Tom Kane, ICUL president/CEO. “With more than 100 million members, credit unions will continue to utilize high profile opportunities like this to tell their story of how they make a difference every day in the lives of their members and consumers.”