I, like many of my peers, owe a great deal of gratitude to former NCUA Chairman Dennis Dollar for all the reasons Mike Welch cited in his April 28 column "Momentum Key as NCUA Awaits Dollar Replacement". I can't possibly write it any better than Welch did. Dollar's passion, leadership, diplomacy and understanding of the role of regulator are unprecedented. My relationship with the outgoing Chairman was cemented further during my brief attempt of being his replacement. He welcomed me into his NCUA office with open arms, and couldn't have been more enthusiastic, encouraging and hospitable. In the hour or two that we met discussing this opportunity, it was so evident to me how dedicated and how much he loved his job. His adoration for the credit union movement as a whole, was equally obvious. Although I opted to remain at Montauk Credit Union for the reasons I explained to him, and all those involved, Dollar was completely understanding and appreciative. The credit union movement will miss this gregarious, energetic and fair man. I feel however, that I have made a friend forever, who shares many of the same passions as I. Louis Jimenez President/CEO Montauk CU Woodside, N.Y.