[Ed Csoltko]

I was also caught in the high-tech layoffs with Motorola. I was planning to stay until 65, but Motorola began their layoffs and it finally got to me. At one time I had over 22 employees in my department. Every time Motorola hit my department. Finally it got down to two employees and myself. I figured I was next because you don't need a manager for two people. Last February Motorola forced me into retirement at 61. I've seen many friends in the high-tech industry laid off during the past year. Many are still worrying about the next layoff, and are saving their coins. Times are tough. But:

We need to hear from everyone once in awhile. Check in and say "Hello". If you got the time, come to a monthly meet for coffee. Remember, you don't have to have a Cobra, it's the friendship we have. If you have a computer, and most of us do, email or posting on the forum is cheap and it only takes a minute to check in with everyone.

I hope for the best for eveyone out there. Time will turn everything around. So hang in there. If anyone would like to meet in the evenings for coffee, just post a message. There are alot for Starbucks around. If anyone wants to get out for a cruise for a couple of hours, I always got a spare seat.

Hopefully some of us can meet this Saturday for lunch. It looks like its going to rain, the Cobras might have to stay in their garages.