A lot has been made about what credit union shared branchnetworks should do with credit unions that convert to banks. I saylet them stay in the networks. Why shouldn't other types offinancial institutions be allowed entry into shared branchingnetworks? Let's think about this for a few moments. Moreparticipants equals more transactions equals more fee income. Thisformula seems positive. Here's another question to ponder. If weparticipate with banks on a worthwhile effort like shared branchingdoesn't that afford us the opportunity to build alliances? Perhaps,with alliances comes the recognition that credit unions have morein common with banks than we have differences. Does this possiblylead to a reduction of the trash rhetoric regarding credit unions'tax status? You might be surprised! Look how quickly bankers tookup the cause for credit unions to have more choices with respect tocharter conversions. Wasn't it surprising how quickly they suddenlywanted to help out credit union management in their efforts to dealwith NCUA on this sensitive matter? I can think of several goodcorporate citizens in my hometown who just happen to be banks. Iknow they share many of the same consumers that my credit uniondoes business with. Why not make my member's life easier whentraveling and at the same time let him handle his business with thelocal bank as well? See. it really doesn't hurt to be neighborlyand share! Rick Stout Senior Vice President Charter Oak FCU Groton,Conn.