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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pioneer Services receives American Bankers Association award for financial education

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (Oct 14, 2008) Pioneer Services was recently recognized by the American Banker's Association (ABA), receiving first place for its financial education campaign thanks to a combination of free online materials and in-office consultations. Established in 1972, the awards recognize those who have displayed excellence in their materials, and are some of the most coveted in the banking industry.

"We have been providing free financial education to military families for several years, and know it has helped thousands of them take control of their finances," said Tom Holcom, president of Pioneer Services. "Being recognized by the ABA for our efforts is an incredible honor, and reaffirms our commitment to offering these materials to every service member, customer or not."

The judges were impressed with Pioneer Services' in-office programs, such as a free credit report review by a Certified Credit Report Reviewer, and Break the Debt Cycle training. The company's free online materials were also noted, as more than 30 articles on numerous topics, financial calculators, and information on how to effectively prioritize and reduce debt are available on two sites, PioneerServices.com and PioneerMilitaryLoans.com.

"The award confirms our commitment to providing military families the tools they need to make smart financial decisions," said Holcom. "Our associates have taken time to become Certified Credit Report Reviewers, Accredited Financial Counselors, and subject matter experts on personal finance issues for military families. Pioneer Services earned this award thanks to their hard work and dedication to changing lives, one military family at a time."

Others receiving recognition in one of 10 categories included Wells Fargo, ING Direct, M&T Bank, Bank of America, and Commerce Bank of Kansas City, Mo.

Pioneer Services, the military banking division of MidCountry Bank, provides financial services, personal loans, and award-winning financial education to members of the Armed Forces. For more than 20 years, Pioneer Services has been a leader in military lending, and supports military families and communities through a variety of partnerships, programs, and sponsorships.

For more information visit www.PioneerServices.com. For loan information, visit PioneerMilitaryLoans.com.

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Scott Cahill
Public Relations, Pioneer Services
media@pioneerservices.com
ph: 816-448-2300
fax: 816-561-9333

All loan applications subject to our credit policies. No official US military endorsement is implied. MidCountry Bank is a member FDIC.

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