Congratulations on a wonderful career and for all the good you have done for we historians. I cannot recall how many times over the past forty odd years you have helped me, beginning with my first monograph about computing, Before the Computer, then with various sequels. You were knowledgeable, prompt and effective. And on top of that, you are a great guy! Now for some free retirement advice as a thank you for your prior help. #1. turn off your alarm clock for the first 30 days so that you can learn when your body wants to go to bed at night and wake up in the morning. #2 Do not volunteer to do anything for 90 days unless you already have a retirement plan; if not create one. The shrinks say that if you are not busy you will die; we don't want that. #3. Our parents taught us the power of NO--it's a beautiful word that you should use to liberate yourself from THE calendar. Retirement can be one of the most productive times of your life to enjoy and to help so many other people. Go for it. Jim -- James W. Cortada Senior Research Fellow Charles Babbage Institute University of Minnesota jcortada@umn.edu 608-274-6382