I have just read Mike Welch's column, "GAC Again Setting for [Mostly] Highlights" in the March 3rd issue of Credit Union Times. Thank you for your comments regarding the "debate" between Ken Fergeson and Jim Blaine. I was anxious to read Welch's column, trusting that he would share his overall opinion of the GAC and more specifically of the debate. I feel it is too easy to criticize and play Monday morning quarterback concerning individual issues or opinions expressed at a conference the magnitude of the GAC. But my reaction to Blaine's comments was so strong that I even sent CUNA President/CEO Dan Mica a letter with my thoughts on the debate after I returned from the GAC – and I rarely send letters of this nature. I expressed to Mr. Mica that I was "embarrassed for Mr. Blaine and the entire credit union industry," and that I found "his arrogance and crass comments were counterproductive to what I expect we were trying to achieve." After I sent my letter I started thinking (sometimes I do too much of that) that I may be alone with my comments, but I see that I was not. Thank you for reinforcing my feelings on this issue. In fairness I should state that Mr. Mica responded immediately to my letter, and I am satisfied with his response and comfortable that this will not happen again. John Benoit President/CEO NorthCountry FCU S Burlington, Vt.

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