<p>I read Mike Welch's January 23rd weekly publisher's column with a big smile on my face. It captured the difficulties of a CEO in today's economy and environment. I am happy to say that I have an excellent relationship with my board of directors. I believe that the reason for that is twofold. First, there is a mutual respect. I cannot take direction from a board that I do not respect and know that they are continuing to grow and develop, and they shouldn't keep a CEO about whom they have nagging questions. Secondly, both the board and I understand that we both work for the member. That understanding means that while we differ over tactics, we both have the same goals and motivations at heart. George Scheeler, CEO Freedom Federal Credit Union Rocky Mount, N.C.</p>