At credit unions, interest on commercial loans "drop off the tax rolls," Headlee said. "The tax exemption was meant to help poor people get credit and not subsidize a commercial loan."

Meanwhile, the 70-member Utah Bankers Association this week began broadcasting three new advertisements on television and in movie theaters celebrating customers and nonprofits. The ads will cost $100,000 to air, Headlee said.

This year is the association's 100th birthday, and although the ads do not directly mention the milestone, the bankers association says the new ads are part of a celebration of the 100 years and have no relation to the battle with the credit unions.

The commercials show urban and rural scenes, including J.C.'s Diner in Garland, Box Elder County; Lambs Cafe in Salt Lake City; and the Ballet West Academy practicing in the Capitol Theatre.

"This is our Utah," the voice-over in one of the commercials announces. "For over 100 years, Utah banks have been at the heart of our community, serving the hard work, creativity and ambition of all Utahns. This is our Utah."

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E-mail: lhancock@desnews.com