MINDEMOYA—The grand opening of the new Espanola and District Credit Union (EDCU) in Mindemoya was held last Wednesday, bringing together Island employees, board members and community members in celebration.
“The Bondi family (the new building’s owners) have gone out of their way to fulfill all our requirements and make this wonderful location a reality,” commented Lindsay Liske, chief executive officer of the EDCU, following the ribbon cutting ceremony. “We are excited about this new location and our staff and customers have really been enjoying it.”
Mr. Liske explained that a study several years ago on creating a Mindemoya branch had an “overwhelming response” which led to the idea.
“There has been a lot of work that has gone into this and we couldn’t be happier,” commented EDCU board chair Bill Hickey. “We went out to tender and both the concept and location was perfect.”
The new building that houses the EDCU is owned by the Bondi family (Mike Bondi and his parents Sam and Yvonne), designed by Ian Whittington and built by John Deforge of Southshore Builders.
Featuring high ceilings and an elegant décor, the new EDCU location is predicted to be a hub of the community with its brick exterior and large clock, located next to the Island Foodland.
“We think that the building and new EDCU location will be a great addition to Mindemoya,” Mike Bondi told The Expositor. “It is another element to draw people to the community. The building also completes the corner and it’s a one stop shopping area complete with Cindy’s Fashions, which is housed in this building as well.”
“It is a great addition to the community and will hopefully attract new businesses to the township,” commented Central Manitoulin Mayor Gerry Strong. “I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate the board and staff on all their hard work on their new location.”
“I really like the new location,” said Mindemoya EDCU member services representative Lorie Leeson. “It is very nice and I am excited to work here.”
Board member Pentti Palonen was also on hand following the ceremony to speak about the new location.
“I think it (the building) is great,” Mr. Palonen said. “It’s really amazing how modern the complex is. The location is also good and it will be great for the aging population because it is right off the main street and on the ground floor, making it very accessible.”
EDCU board members were also on hand for the ceremony and celebration. Board members include Murray Haner, Jim Gilpin, Pentti Palonen, Joellen Sloss, Margaret Cranston, Brian Cairns, Ron Kenny and Bill Lewis.
The hours of operation for the Mindemoya EDCU are 10 am to 4:30 pm from Monday to Thursday and 9:30 am to 4:30 pm on Fridays. For more information, call 705-377-4635.
