BROOKLYN, N.Y. — The $1 billion Polish and Slavic Federal Credit Union appeared to take another step away from its recent past of board infighting and litigation when it opened a new branch in Garfield, N.J. The 32-year-old CU has 70,000 members and now has 11 branches.

The credit union has suffered in recent years from board infighting, litigation and difficulty finding steady leadership but has gradually been turning the corner. The branch expansion represents some of the fruit of the increased stability.

"This is just the beginning of what promises to be a truly eventful year for our credit union," said CEO Bogdan Chmielewski at the branch opening on March 20. "Whereas others are trying to overcome foreclosure troubles and other financial woes, we are determined to expand. We're excited about our growth potential, and we bet on a proactive approach to expanding our footprint. PSFCU's committed to meeting the needs and wants of our loyal membership, and we want to be where they are, provided there is a good prospect of financial success."