Press Release

Consumers Credit

Date:4.07.2010

COLDWATER, MI—

Consumers Credit Union is supporting local area communities by sponsoring Kevin Collins and the Kuungana Drum and Dance Company, part of the 2010 Tibbits Entertainment Series.

Consumers Credit Union is America’s top-rated credit union which is headquartered in Kalamazoo, MI. With more than $300 million in assets, Consumers has experienced 20% average growth for 25 consecutive years. Established in 1951, Consumers serves individuals and businesses through 12 branch offices and more than 200 ATM locations in Kalamazoo, Portage, Lawton, Coldwater, South Haven and Holland.

In 2007 the Coldwater branch office was opened with Tina Graybill as the office manager for this location. A lifelong resident of Branch County, Tina has more than 20 years of banking experience. Previously she worked as a Branch Manager and Loan Officer for Key Bank National Association and Coldwater Banking Center, a Division of Sturgis Bank & Trust. She is active with the Branch Area Chamber of Commerce and Coldwater Noon Exchange Club.

By sponsoring the event, Consumers ensured this top quality entertainment would be available to hundreds of school children and the public who otherwise might not have the opportunity to participate in cultural events.

Kevin Collins is a name many in the area may recognize as he's performed in the schools, at churches, festivals and even the Branch Area Careers Center numerous times over the past seven years. In April, as part of Tibbits Young Audiences' school programming, Collins will appear at a half a dozen schools with his drums and charismatic presentation. He teaches the African culture while instilling great lessons on hard work and self esteem. 

There will also be a performance by his Kuungana Drum & Dance Co on April 16. Costumes, dance, rhythm and drums evoke the traditions of West Africa. Audiences will see, hear, and feel the music and energy of Kuunganaas it  shares its love for African music and culture through lively, participatory performances. .

This event is part of Celebrating Cultural Connections and includes an opportunity to see and learn about many different cultures in the Tibbits Art Gallery prior to the show at 6:00pm.Tibbits Young Audiences, Young Michigan Dances and MSU Extension are pleased to be part of this presentation.

Kevin Collins and the Kuungana Drum and Dance Company is the last event of the 2009 – 2010 Entertainment Series. Tickets are available at www.Tibbits.org, at Tibbits offices at 93 West Chigago Street or by calling 517-278-6029. The performance starts at 7pm, April 16, 2010. Tickets are $9 for adults and $7 for students.