WASHINGTON – The American Association of Credit Union Leagues (AACUL) held its 2005 Annual Meeting Jan. 26-29 in Palm Desert, Calif. The four-day conference at the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa began with meetings of AACUL's various task forces such as the political involvement & grassroots task force, and state issues advocacy task force. Day two's agenda was divided between separate sessions focused on topics for league service corp. executives and those for governmental affairs/political action specialists (GAPS). Among the topics covered were the federal and state level tax threat, the legislative outlook for the 109th Congress (CURIA, Reg Relief, bankruptcy reform, predatory lending, Social Security and tax reform), the state legislative outlook, and political action (budgeting for candidates, FEC compliance, issue advocacy, and campaign schools.) Friday's general session was designed for all participants. NCUA Board member Deborah Matz delivered the keynote address in the morning followed by various speakers who addressed topics such as community development programs, community outreach and involvement, perspective from the states with a presentation by NASCUS Chairman Roger Little, and a presentation by David Chatfield, president/CEO, California and Nevada Credit Union Leagues, on "State Showcase: 2005 Public Advocacy Program." Before the 2005 annual meeting adjourned on Jan. 29, AACUL held its business meeting including the election of officers.