THREE RIVERS, Mich.–Arbor Financial Credit Union provided an “unforgettable surprise” to a member named James, a proud Vietnam veteran, lifelong mechanic, and Three Rivers resident, who was selected as the grand-prize winner of Arbor’s special 90th Anniversary $9,090 Drawing.
Members were automatically entered based on the Arbor services they use, the more services, the more entries; and James’ name rose to the top from more than 114,000 entries.
“I don’t usually win things,” he laughed as Arbor staff gathered to celebrate the announcement.
‘I’m Like a Houseplant’
James joined Arbor in 2022 after hearing about it from his grandson. A mechanic by trade and by heart, he worked a decade beyond retirement simply because he loved what he did. Today, his hobby is restoring tractors of all kinds, more than 30 of them, in fact.
“I’m like a houseplant – I stay where I’m planted,” he joked, a sentiment that reflects the steady, rooted way he approaches life and his finances, the credit union said.
“When James arrived at the Three Rivers branch, he was welcomed with warm smiles from the Arbor team, including Branch Manager Randi,” Arbor CU stated. “The visit quickly turned into a cheerful celebration, complete with photos and plenty of excitement as staff congratulated him on his big win.”
Began as Teachers CU
Arbor CU added that as it marks its 90th year it continues to honor the spirit of community that began back in 1935 with nine Kalamazoo teachers. Today, Arbor serves more than 40,000 members across the region with 12 convenient branches.
