DESTINATION — The Greenbrier For 477 executives, volunteers and vendors associated with defense credit unions, all roads led to The Greenbrier Resort during the second weekend of August 2013, and the Golden Anniversary Conference of the Defense Credit Union Council. The Greenbrier, nestled on 6,500 acres in the majesty of the Allegheny Mountains, is located in White Sulfur Springs, West Virginia, some 250 miles from Washington D.C. Offering all the amenities associated with Southern Hospitality, the 721-room luxury resort boasts a heritage dating back to 1778. Whether serving the U.S. Army in 1942 as a 2,000-bed hospital, where for four years some 24,148 soldiers were admitted and treated within its surgical and rehabilitation centers, or providing bunker space for 30 years as an Emergency Relocation Center for Congress in case of war, Project Greek Island or more commonly known as The Greenbrier, has truly earned a distinction of being, “America's Resort.” Now, for the next several days, its noble distinction will continue to be heralded as defense credit unions crown The Greenbrier host of their 50th Anniversary Conference.
(2)
SUNDAY — August 11, 2013 Besides marking the golden anniversary of the Defense Credit Union Council, 2013 also serves as a milestone for the VADM Vincent Lascara Golf Tournament—its 20th anniversary. Players gathered early this morning for breakfast hosted by the CUNA Mutual Group. 104 golfers—most ever for the annual event— made up this year’s field, and making it extra-special was a foursome of the Vice Admiral’s sons and grandsons, one of whom, Brett Lascara, just happens to be a PGA-rated player! The tournament was held on The Greenbrier's Meadows Course, and despite the rain greeting the players for their tee-off, the day very quickly became a memorable affair. The skies cleared shortly after the shot-gun start and more important, the tourney was able to raise $520 from the sale of mulligans for the National Intrepid Center of Excellence satellite centers serving troops suffering the effects of traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress and related injuries. The NICoE was selected as this year’s recipient of all monies raised during the conference, from the sale of mulligans and DCUC’s silent auction to the Board’s pledge. Totals exceeded $31,000. From my perspective it’s fair to say that the $520, generated by the purchase of mulligans, truly demonstrates the charitable hearts of those playing and should not be confused with the range of handicaps reflective of the field! The CUNA Mutual Group also generously sponsored the Awards Luncheon that followed the tournament as well as the gift certificates for those who found themselves in one of the winning circles: First Place—The Marine FCU foursome of Craig Chamberlin, Chuck Collins, Bob Dickerson, and Ike Johnson (3)
Eighth Place—The Schofield FCU foursome of Gary Yonamine, Ariel Chun, Robert Taone, and Larry Tanaka
Nineteenth Place—Chad Bennett (AFFN) and Henry Bowman, Donald DeMesme and Derold Emory from Andrews FCU
Men's Longest Drive— Zack Elliott (Fort Bragg FCU)
Women's Longest Drive— Raelynn Radway (MAC FCU)
Men's Closest to the Pin— Steve Ducoff (Ent FCU)
Women's Closest to the Pin— Ariel Chun (Schofield FCU)
MONDAY — August 12, 2013 A foggy mist caressed the hills of White Sulfur Springs on Monday morning as we all scurried for a bite of breakfast and cup of coffee before heading to the overseas sub-council meeting. For others, the morning was spent setting up booth presentations for the Grand Showcase scheduled to open with a ribbon cutting at 12:15. With another sold-out showcase of 30 vendors filling Colonial Hall and with much fanfare, Ms. Patty Kimmel, DCUC Board Chair, proudly cut the ribbon as music of the 60s nostalgically filled the air. Immediately, attendees flooded the showcase floor to greet old acquaitances, get their cards stamped by vendors for one of the many drawings and delight in a lunch of hot dogs and hamburgers. (4)
Two and a half hours later, everyones attention turned from the showcase to their military representative for a panel discussion featuring Mr. Bill Hawbecker (DFAS), CPT Emma Parsons (Army), Ms. Elise Newton (Navy), Mr. Phil Westcott (Marines), and Mr. Jim Sisson (Air Force). Lease renewals with banks on DoD bases seemed to dominate the discussion as it was suggested that renewals had the potential to bleed over to credit unions and had to be watched closely. The most valuable point made during the 65-minute session was the importance of knowing your on-base liasion officer and and meeting with him/her on a quarterly basis. The presentation of the Military Saves Award capped the session which saw Pacific Marine Credit Union and NavyFed cited for their accomplishments at MCRD San Diego and Parris Island, South Carolina respectively. As we headed into the home stretch of the opening day activities, we were offered nine corporate partner breakout sessions, from which we could attend three. The sessions, scheduled to last 35 minutes, offered a wide-range of topics and discussions, from digital wallets and virtual branches to auto lending and mobile banking services. Finally, it was time for the Chairman's Reception, sponsored by the Armed Forces Financial Network. Originally scheduled for an outdoor terrace, the reception was moved indoors due to a threat of rain, which eventually made its presence known. The reception capped the day's activities, not only by providing a substantial array of dietary delights and a full-service bar, but also by offering all of us the perfect setting to catch up with one another, share family stories and many tall-tales from the office as well.
(5)
TUESDAY — August 13, 2013 Rain greeted us on Tuesday morning as we made our way to the official start of the golden anniversary gathering. But first, we all partook of a hearty breakfast of bacon, sausage and eggs. Ms. Patty Kimmel, CEO of Belvoir FCU and Board Chair of DCUC took command of the day’s proceedings. She called everyone to order by observing a longstanding tradition at DCUC's annual meetings. Ms. Kimmel invited everyone to join her in honoring our flag and nation. The West Virginia Army National Guard Honor Guard presented the National Colors and Ms. Victoria Huggins, daughter of Terrill Huggins, a 37-year veteran of the National Guard and based at Fort Bragg, did a tremendous job in leading everyone in singing our National Anthem. We all recited the Pledge of Allegiance and bowed our heads for an invocation offered by the Board Chair of Mid-Missouri Credit Union, Mr. James Woods, before seeing the Colors retired. Next up, Ms. Kimmel introduced the MC for this year's Golden Anniversary Conference, Mr. Arty Arteaga, who each day provided introductions, information, helpful guidance on the agenda, and an assortment of both compliments and humorous remarks as only Mr. Arteaga himself can offer. After Mr. Kenneth Watts, West Virginia Credit Union League President and CEO officially welcomed and greeted us to the Mountain State, we all watched a video as Mr. Arteaga saluted and paid tribute to each branch of the Armed Forces. Next, we heard from the Honorable Michael Fryzel, Board Member at the National Credit Union Administration. In his remarks, Mr Fryzel encouraged Defense Credit Unions, saying, “The path will not always be smooth, and it may not always be straight, but you and the industry as a whole must hold close to your vision. Keep thinking big, keep thinking long term and keep your eye on a better future.” Mr. Ernest Gregory, Former Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army (FM+C) followed as keynote speaker. Mr. Gregory offered an enjoyable and inspiring message, challenging us to follow the example of all those we serve. (6)
“Just as our military fight for each other in order to prevail, and in so doing, protect and preserve our freedom, you, too, must fight for one another so credit unions can prevail and in so doing, continue to serve those who serve our country.” Lieutenant General Kevin P. Byrnes (R), and Credit Union National Association President and CEO, Mr. Bill Cheney followed. We then adjourned to the Showcase for a lunch buffet where we also had another opportunity to visit the vendor booths as well as place our bids for the silent auction. After lunch, we heard from Mr. John Lass, SVP, Strategy & Business Development at CUNA Mutual Group who centered his remarks on the value of “Cooperative Member Centricity.” Two hot market sessions followed, one presented by Mr. Dave Throndson of the LaMacchia Group and the second by Allied Solutions’ Mr. Dan Chaney. As the afternoon wound to a close, we all convened one last time in the Showcase for a social reception during which we selected the winners of the 50/50 and the American Flag Quilt drawings. We also concluded the silent and live auction for the original watercolor painting of “Regis” an American Eagle, where we heard Mr. Arteaga demonstrate his exemplary skills in auctioneering. Scott Credit Union was awarded the portrait with a winning bid of $3,000.
Dinner on Tuesday evening offered us the opportunity to dine with vendors and colleagues at a restaurant of our own choosing, either at The Greenbrier or within one of the local restaurants in the community of White Sulfur Springs.
(7)
WEDNESDAY — August 14, 2013 Today’s the day we’ve been waiting for, as today officially marks the 50th anniversary of DCUC. The celebration will take place tonight at the 50th Anniversary Gala Dinner. However, before we all raise our glasses, there’s a full day of presentations on the agenda waiting to be made. After awaking to sunny skies and enjoying a light buffet breakfast, we all headed back into the main conference room to hear two general presentations. The first executive to grace the podium was Mr. Dan Berger, President/CEO of the National Association of Federal Credit Unions. This was Mr. Berger’s first presentation as CEO at our conference after receiving the reigns of leadership from Mr. Fred Becker Jr. Ms. Mary Martha Fortney followed with the second presentation of the morning. Ms. Fortney is President/CEO of the National Association of State Credit Union Supervisors. After taking a short refreshment break, we all returned to finish off the morning with a series of educational workshops. Three concurrent sessions were offered twice, giving us the opportunity to hear two of the presentations. The three topics were: A Preview of the 2012 Military Financial Capability Study; Social Media—Managing the Risk; and Change is a Jungle—How the Current Business Environment Impacts the Change Personalities on your Team. As the clock struck noon, we all adjourned and gathered for the Military Awards Luncheon where three DCUC members were honored as Credit Union of the Year. Service Credit Union and its branch in Grafenwoehr, Germany, was singled out by the Army; Navy/Marine Corps honored NavyFed and its support facility in Bethesda, Maryland; and the Air Force hailed 1st Community FCU on Goodfellow AFB, Texas, as its Credit Union of the Year.
(8)
Service CU was recognized for their outstanding commitment to community financial education and combating predatory lending, as well as their 24/7 worldwide access and full range of high quality, low-cost financial products and services. Navy FCU at the Naval Support Activity Bethesda was awarded for its support of the financial needs of the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center personnel providing sound financial products, Wounded Warrior bedside notary services and emergency relief loans for those affected by Hurricane Sandy. 1st Community FCU was honored for their exceptional base involvement to include their new, onbase full-service branch, a remote transaction kiosk, ATMs, financial education in conjunction with the Airman and Family Readiness Center, free Notary Public service, special loan products for those recalled to active duty, and financial support of activities affecting military personnel. After lunch, DCUC held its annual business meeting in the underground bunker once reserved for members of congress as an evacuation site in the event of a nuclear war. While the setting was historic, designed for times of survival and war, tranquility prevailed throughout the business meeting that saw Ms. Denise Floyd, President/CEO at Fort Sill FCU, re-elected as Representative-at-Large and Mr. Craig Chamberlin, President/CEO of Marine Credit Union, elected to the board, filling the seat of Mr. Dave Davis, President/CEO of Pacific Marine FCU who decided not seek re-election.
(9)
After the meeting, all were divided into groups and escorted on a tour of the once top-secret bunker. Finally the time had arrived. We all dressed in our best and gathered together for the Golden Anniversary Gala Reception and Dinner in Colonial Hall. What a delight it was to be among so many friends and peers under a ceiling draped by the majesty of Old Glory.
As we all raised our champagne glasses, sponsored by CO-OP Shared Branching and embossed with the 50th Anniversary Logo, a series of toasts were offered, first by Ms. Kimmel, “To the United States of America.” Next came, “To the Defense Credit Union Council,” by Ms. Floyd; “To our troops and their families,” by Mr. Simmons; and finally, “To the ladies,” by Mr. Arteaga. The meal of shrimp and beef filet was exquisite, complimented by the big-band sound of The Andrew Thielan Orchestra. Before everyone took to the dance floor, Mr. Arteaga presided over the induction of four distinguished credit union executives into the DCUC Hall of Honor. The Hall of Honor was established thirteen years ago as a means of recognizing individuals whose contributions and inordinate support of the credit union movement added great value to the Defense Credit Union Council and defense credit union community. This year’s inductees were Mr. Robert Morgan, Ms. Jean Yokum, Mr. Randy Smith, and Ms. Sharon Ichord.
Mr. Robert Morgan was the president/CEO of ABNB FCU for twentyeight years and sat on the DCUC Board for seventeen years, serving as the Navy/Coast Guard Representative and holding almost every position on the board to include Chairman. Morgan also sat on the Armed Forces Financial Network Board for over ten years. Morgan’s involvement in the credit union community extends to decades of service for the Virginia Credit Union League and the Tidewater Chapter.
(10)
Ms. Jean Yokum was selected for her lifetime dedication to military credit unions. Initially employed as a teller with Langley FCU in 1953, she rose through the ranks to become President/CEO, where she served for thirtythree years. Yokum also served on the DCUC Board for twenty years and is a past chairman. Throughout her almost sixty years with the defense credit union community, Yokum worked tirelessly to create and promote better products and services for Langley FCU’s members and reach out to underserved communities. She has received numerous awards in recognition of her dedicated work, including NAFCU’s CEO of the Year and being inducted into the Credit Union Executives Society Hall of Fame.
Mr. Randy Smith, the immediate past President/CEO of RandolphBrooks FCU (RBFCU), was honored for his more than twenty years of service to RBFCU. Under his leadership, the credit union expanded from $295 million in assets to more than $5 billion, and from 64,000 members to almost 400,000. Having served in the U.S. Air Force, Smith brought with him a deep understanding of the challenges military service members and their families face. He used this knowledge to provide RBFCU members better products and services to make their lives easier. Smith was very active outside the credit union community volunteering with the Children’s Miracle Network, the United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, and the Alamo Colleges Foundation. Even with his broad range of service, he never lost his focus on serving the military membership, leading fundraising efforts to construct Fisher House locations in San Antonio.
Ms. Sharon Ichord is the immediate past President/CEO of Mid Missouri CU. Ichord started her career with Mid Missouri CU in 1975 as a phone operator and retired in August 2013. During her tenure as President/CEO, she oversaw the expansion of the credit union from one facility to five facilities with a sixth branch in the design process. In addition to her work with the credit union, Ichord has been very active with state and national credit union associations to include chairing DCUC’s Hall of Honor selection Committee for the past ten years.
(11)
THURSDAY — August 15, 2013 Surprising so, last night’s festivities did not drain all of our energy. After a good night’s sleep, we all awoke to the final day of the Golden Anniversary Conference. Greeted by areas of fog and spotty sunshine, we all gathered for the final presentation, one that we quickly found to be memorable, moving and inspiring. I could not think of any better way to cap off a celebration marking 50 years of service to those who serve our country than by hearing the personal story of Mr. Peter Lemon, a Veteran of the US Army and a Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient.
All of us in attendance were moved; not only by Mr. Lemon’s heroism and valor, but his message as well, one that we would bring home with us to share with others. “True heroism is all about the decisions we make,” he said. “Never take your freedoms for granted . . . Stand tall with pride in being an American.” On that high note, our observance of the Golden Anniversary Conference drew to a close. We bid each other farewell, only to set our gaze on Dallas, Texas, one year from now, and what promises to be another grand conference devoted to celebrating our achievements, hearing from the experts and being inspired by those who serve our country.
(12)
POWERPOINT PRESENTATIONS Panel Discussion with Military Crystal Room Representatives Strategies for Success: Deliver an Engaging Mobile Experience Lou Byfield, Mobile Product Strategy, FIS/AFFN Making Faster Decisions – Applying Military Lessons to Business Lt. Col. Brian Doyle, USAFR, Genworth Mortgage Direction Guidance for “Otherwise Impermissible” Investments under 701.19 Chris Burns-Fazzi, Burns-Fazzi, Brock Introducing Sprig – a Virtual Branch Nina Kopp, CO-OP Shared Branching The 2014 Quadrennial Defense Review –Implications and Expectations Lieutenant General Kevin P. Byrnes, (R), USA State of the Credit Union Industry Mr. Bill Cheney, President/CEO Credit Union National Association The Battle for the American Consumer Mr. John Lass, Senior Vice President Strategy & Business Development, CUNA Mutual Group The Ever-Evolving Retail Branch: What Does it Look Like And Who’s Visiting? Dave Throndson, Vice President of Business Development, LaMacchia Group NAFCU Legislative Update Mr. Dan Berger, President/CEO Hall National Association of Federal Credit Unions NASCUS Update Ms. Mary Martha Fortney, President/CEO National Association of State Credit Union Supervisors 2012 Military Financial Capability Study – A Preview W. G. “Bud” Schneeweis, Director, Military Financial Readiness Program, FINRA Foundation Social Media–Managing the Risk Kristen Tatlock, Vice President COMPASS 4 CUs Change Is A Jungle: How the current business environment impacts the Change Personalities on your team Terry E. Wright, Major, USAFR, IWS
(13)
(14)