There are three unrelated topics in my potpourri file on which some observations may be of interest: * First topic: Kudos to all those responsible for obtaining the new Internet designation, dot-coop, or more correctly, .coop. Obtaining a new domain is no small task. It has been estimated that there...

One of the biggest challenges facing credit unions today is the desperate need for educated volunteers. It is a topic that is rarely openly discussed. I often ask credit union groups, "What is one of the greatest strengths of credit unions?" Almost always, the reaction is total silence. Surprisingly, even...

There comes a point in every major controversy when it is time to finally make a tough decision to resolve it. The Overhead Transfer Rate (OTR) is an annual process that has been controversial ever since it became a method for dipping into the NCUSIF. However, since the OTR was...

When CUNA's Renaissance Commission initiative was first announced, I thought it was a good idea with a lot of promise for credit unions, and I said so in this space. Now I am not so sure. Since my initial positive feelings that all credit union interests could come together (didn't...

Credit unions are making headlines because credit unions are generating news like never before in their long history. As publisher of the largest and most widely read credit union publication, for example, it takes a Herculean effort on our part to report each week on all the newsworthy developments involving...

As an individual takes on more responsibility and handles it well, he or she can expect to eventually be rewarded with a fatter paycheck. That's the way it works, for example, with credit union CEOs. As the credit union gets larger and more complex, the CEO has every right to...

Not long ago credit unions were debating whether or not they should be offering credit cards. Today the focus has shifted away from controversy over offering credit card programs, to selling those CU credit card portfolios lock, stock, and barrel to a third party. The argument back then was that...

Credit unions and all those involved in any way with them have never experienced more uncertain times. Since the horrific tragedy of September 11th, everything has changed. Attitudes, priorities, goals, purchasing decisions; personal safety; transportation; and much more are undergoing constant review. It is painful to look back. It is...