ATLANTA-It's summertime and Georgia Federal Credit Union's platinum and classic VISA card portfolio is practically bursting at the seams. "The response to this simple promotion has just been phenomenal," said GFCU Vice President of Marketing Kim Wall. "We are very committed to our credit card portfolio, and really why would we push our members away by selling that relationship?" Playing up the "Let our platinum card take you away" theme, the $228 million credit union kicked off its platinum card debut with a branch lobby decoration contest. Each of the 10 branches was provided one giant inflatable palm tree, dozens of Hawaiian leis, mini inflatable palm trees and one platinum VISA poster. With a branch-spending limit of just $50, the employee innovative spirit took it from there. From pink flamingos in front of the branch to hammocks and Hawaiian shirt Fridays, employees went all out and generated a surprising amount of member interest. "One of the biggest benefits of the introduction of our platinum VISA credit card has been the increased awareness of our VISA program in general-including the renewed interest in our classic card as well," said GFCU Vice President of Lending Debbie Gonsuron. According to Wall, in only two months, so far the number of VISA applications has almost tripled. In addition, the outstanding credit card portfolio balance has already exceeded $9.4 million. The creativity expressed by each branch made it too difficult for judges to select only one winner -so everyone was treated to lunch of their choice. "It was great that we could do something special for the employees," said Wall. "They had the most fun with this promotion and some have even told us that they are keeping the decorations up until the end of summer!" [email protected]