I’ve been involved with COE since the very beginning of the organization in 1984, and was involved with CATIA well before that. For several years I served as editor of the COE newsletter. In 1989 I had the privilege of being elected to the COE Board of Directors and served as Secretary for three years. I very much admired the capabilities and sincerity of my coworkers on the board, who included Bill Abramson, B.J. Fries, Steve Lynn, Heidi Kress and Joe Red. They each brought to the board their own unique talents and perspectives, but worked concertedly to advance and strengthen the COE organization – as did all those who served as board members and committee volunteers since COE was founded.
I’d be remiss if I did not mention that I was especially saddened to hear of B.J. Fries’ recent passing. He was a fine gentleman who was a hard-working supporter of COE and a member of the board for many, many years. Although we met only a couple of times each year, I considered him a friend and hope that he also thought of me that way.
Best regards to all those COE volunteers that I’ve come in contact with over the years. Hopefully we can get together in Seattle and share many wonderful memories, create some new ones, and plan just as wonderful a future! Thanks -- Phil J. |