NEW YORK-There's nothing like home field advantage, and for John C. Gibardi, chairman of the New York State Credit Union League, New York City was exactly the place he wanted to be as he initiated the beginning of the end of his official duties as League chairman. "I can finally say, `Welcome to New York,'" Gibardi kidded as he officially opened the League's 85th Annual Meeting and Convention this past week. In recognition of Gibardi's work as chairman, a testimonial reception was held in his honor on the second night of the convention. Gibardi, who is president and CEO of Entertainment Industries FCU in Manhattan, requested that proceeds from the reception be donated to the New York Credit Union Foundation, which funds projects and programs that support small credit union initiatives, financial education, professional development and international partnerships through quarterly grant disbursements from the Community Investment Fund. All totaled, the event raised $24,000 for the Foundation. Remarking on his tenure as chairman, Gibardi-in an interview with Credit Union Times-said, "One of the most important things that we [the board of directors] accomplished was to develop a forward-thinking strategic body that would plan for the future, not just for today." One of the things Gibardi will miss most from his role as chairman is the interaction with his peers on a state and national level. "We all talk credit unions-which is a very rewarding and fulfilling experience." And, in terms of lessons learned that he takes away with him, Gibardi focused on the importance of maintaining balance when dealing with various opinions. "Your capacity [as chairman] is more as facilitator to stimulate the discussion, to stimulate the course of action," he said. "There has to be a meeting of the minds, and when the collective decision is made, you have to make sure that it is in the best interest of the League, which in turn helps and supports our credit union members-which is ultimately what it's all about." That ability to maintain balance is one of the strengths incoming Chairwoman Vicky Matteson, president and CEO of Jamestown Area Community FCU in Jamestown, N.Y., believes she can bring to the job. "I'm not afraid to take on challenging issues or to speak my mind about how I feel," Matteson told Credit Union Times. "Yet, it's critically important that the chairman look at the whole picture. When we leave the boardroom, I'll make sure we're united in what we do." "I'm excited about meeting the challenges we're facing right now and for the next couple of years," Matteson continued. "And, I'm honored and thankful that the board and League management have faith in my abilities." [email protected]