So, this is it.  On January 7, 2024, my time on the Portland Oregon Executive board will end.  I was hired at the Post Office in 1984 as an LSM clerk. I was first elected to office in 1990. I held office off and on until 2004 and have served on the board for 20 consecutive years.  My Postal career ended in retirement in 2022.  Firstly, my gratitude must go to my wife Maria, Thomas, and all our children for their support and tolerance of my Union work over the years.  I have had the pleasure of working with many different local stewards and officers.  I have much gratitude for several of these fine officers and stewards.  I was schooled early on by the likes of Bob Tunstall, Jim Lewis, Larry Perez and Darrell Strobel, all who have passed on.  Names like Patty Olson, Brian Dunn, Brian Dunsmore and Bill Martin have, and are still teaching me. 

 Speaking of bills, these past years working with Bill and Debbie Battle have been some of the best years of my Union career.  They were there to help when help was needed, point me in the right direction when I was off course and most of all, they are great friends.

 Without the support and friendship of these people, and many others, I would not have had the opportunity to have a career with this local. The knowledge, guidance, help and friendships that has been provided and passed on by all these individuals, and others, is immeasurable. 

  None of this would have been possible without the support of the membership.  My interaction with the members, stewards and officers has and will continue to be one of the highlights of my life. I truly believe I have a Union family.  Thank you to all the members past and present for your support of our Union and me.  Please provide the same support to our new President and his executive board. 

 I wish all our members and their families a happy and safe holiday season.  It is important during this time of year that we remember that our families must deal with peak season as much as we do.   The most important people are those right in front of us in our homes.  Take care of your family, yourself, and your co-workers during this time.  I am sure the old saying “kiss your family goodbye and tell them you will see them after New Years” still applies to many employees of the USPS.

 It would be an extensive gratitude list for all that I have received.  I will just leave with a simple THANK YOU! 

Joe Cogan – Retiree