It is with deep sadness that I write about my longtime friend and staunch unionist Richie O'Connell. Richie passed away on October 6^th after battling various illnesses over the past few years. Richie was a past president of this association and was instrumental in bringing New Jersey into the picture on the National level. His dedication and commitment to letter carriers, particularly the New Jersey letter carrier was second to none.

He was very proud of his state and did his utmost to keep New Jersey involved in all areas of the NALC. It was his commitment to all letter carriers that was responsible for elevating Richie to the office of Secretary Treasurer of the NALC. He went to Washington, but never forgot his New Jersey roots and was always eager to come home and visit with the local branches at various functions and state conventions. Some of his proudest moments came at our annual Congressional Breakfast where Richie would speak on the accomplishments of the New Jersey State Association. Whenever Richie was at an NALC event, he would be introduced as “New Jersey's favorite son”. He meant a lot to this state and we are all indebted to him for his efforts on our behalf.

On a personal note, Richie was a friend and confidant. He was always willing to listen and offer advice when asked, I will surely miss him. And who can ever forget Richie's famous jokes, particularly his "tomato" joke in which I was the focus of his humor. Our union needs more people like Richie. On behalf of the New Jersey State Association, I'd like to extend my condolences to Richie's family. We will never forget him and may he rest in peace.

This has been a very eventful year for us. With Postal Reform being addressed, our legislative activists were busy communicating with Congress and making our issues known to them. We had yet another successful Congressional Breakfast in Washington and several local legislative meetings were held throughout the state. Elections were held at our State Convention and we welcomed a new board member, Carol Ann Rasmus from Branch 67 onto the executive board.

We were involved with the New Jersey gubernatorial elections and were instrumental in getting a pro-union Governor elected. As you know, Jon Corzine was an outstanding Senator in our state and supported us on virtually every one of our issues. I'm sure he'll continue to support us on the local front as well.

I'd like to take this time to commend the letter carriers in our state who donated to COLCPE, our political action fund, and to those who signed up to become NALC E-Activists. Your involvement is crucial to the future of the Postal Service and the NALC. Thank you for a job well done. I'd like to encourage those of you who haven't been involved to do so. Contact your branch president or shop steward for more details on these issues, or visit our website at NJSALC.com. Your future depends on it.

In closing, my best wishes to you and your families for a very Happy Holiday season and for a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year!