Mike Welch's July 25th publisher's column on the lack of controversy at credit union conferences was right on. In my personal opinion, the reason so many conferences are now "sterile" and civilized, with less spirited discussion of issues, is because volunteers are disappearing from leadership roles and the paid staff are replacing them. For example, state credit union leagues have seen a major drop in volunteers on their boards. It is almost impossible for a volunteer to be elected to the CUNA Board. It seems to me that the resultant board and committee groups of paid staffers, almost completely devoid of those emotional volunteers, are inclined to be careful and conservative as they build their credit union careers. No risk taking or involvement in issues that are not "safe." Larry Myers Vice Chairman JAX Navy FCU Jacksonville, Fla.