Long-term directors can still do the job

<p>I usually enjoy Mike Welch’s publisher’s column even if I don’t always agree with all of his views. For instance, I do take exception to his views on long-time directors in his column of January 30th. Many of the directors on our board have served 20-plus years. We may be getting a bit old, but I feel we make every effort to stay in tune with the times and that our members are given the best possible service. We have eight branches, a member service center, a Web site with online financial services including bill payment. We have tried to recruit younger members to serve by having an associate director program which provides those who are interested in becoming directors a chance to see how the board works and see whether they are willing to put in the necessary time required to serve. One of our former associate directors is on the board, and we have two waiting for their chance to serve. We are a progressive and forward thinking board that is fortunate to have an outstanding CEO and executive management team, and a hard working, dedicated staff that knows that the main reason we exist is to serve our members. Just because we may be getting a bit old doesn’t mean we stop thinking or looking for better ways to serve our members. As a matter of fact, we have a director emeritus program which gives us an opportunity to have someone on the board who served for a long time and to draw on his or her broad experiences. Although the director emeritus doesn’t vote, he is heard. I just want Mike to know that us old folks still are able to do a good job. Ray Orlowski Chairman, Board of Directors Harborstone Credit Union Tacoma, Wash.</p>