WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – This year's International Credit Union Day theme of "Credit Unions: The Heart of Our Communities" has prompted some creative, fun credit union events. Historically set aside as an occasion to reflect on credit union achievements and to promote the credit union philosophy of "people helping people" ICU Day has grown into weeklong festivities for some credit unions. A week before ICU Day, President Bush sent a letter stating his support of the day: "I send greetings to those observing International Credit Union Day. America has more than 10,000 credit unions. These credit unions play a vital role in the financial health of families and in the growth of communities across the country. By providing fair loans, sound fiscal advice, and quality consumer services, credit unions have helped millions of men and women meet their credit and savings needs and realize their economic potential." President Bush noted that "credit unions' commitment to excellence demonstrates the character of America." Detailed coverage of various ICU Day festivities will be found in an upcoming issue of Credit Union Times.