AMES, Iowa — A local family is relieved after getting news that despite their debt of $17,000,000,000,000, they have been approved by their bank for a new line of credit.
Bill and Marina Oberson, residents of Ames since 1989, said they are “just completely thrilled” by the news. However, they said they are not terribly surprised, given their years of business with First National Bank of Ames as well as their close friendship with bank manager Harriet Reed.
“The approval process seemed to take forever,” Marina said. “We’re behind on so many bills and we were worried we might start getting harassed by a collection agency.”
“Business is slow,” Bill said. “We’ll get back on our feet. There are just a few things we need to buy first.”
Reed, who worked in the bank’s loan department before being promoted to manager in 2007, said she has no doubt the Obersons will make good on their debt.
“They’re a very nice couple,” she said. “And they have very big hearts.”
The Obersons said the first thing they’ll do is pay interest on their debts, but they’d also like to splurge a little. They are thinking of getting a new doghouse for Skittles, their golden retriever. Bill is also planning a surprise weekend in Minneapolis for his two daughters, Melissa and Sara.
“Minneapolis is only three hours away, but we’ve never been there,” he said. “The girls could do the roller coaster at the Mall of America.”
“Or we could just buy the Mall of America,” Marina said. “There’s always that option.”