John,
I have worked for the group for only a year, but it has given me a year to appreciate what you have done for advanced internet technology and for goofs in general. Every day I am astounded by the intelligence I am surrounded by and, even if some may not realize it, you are the reason they are here. In some way, each person in the WebAhead lab is a little pieces part of you, or your dream. I get to operate in an open creative environment where I can get instant gratification for my writing. I have all kinds of creative licence that I would certainly not have anywhere else. I was very nervous about joining IBM in the first place. My dad has been with IBM for over 25 years and I thought that I wanted to do everything ABSOLUTELY OPPOSITE of that. I didn't want to get involved with Blue suit starched shirt IBM, no way!

But this group was different, I could tell, and I took advantage of the learning environment that it provides me. I learn something new every day - about MY job, about other people, about their jobs, and about Internet Technology -- and it seems to me that that is what you wanted us to do -- and I can say that after a year here, I have a major leg up on a LOT of people. In case no one tells you -- thank you for letting this group drop your name to expedite some other tedious process, thank you for believing in the group, thank you for hiring people like Rooney to inspire me (yes, Rooney -- yes,inspire), and thank you for not hiring a hit on David Singer, who's brain amuses me - good luck with your new... identity. Have fun with your "retirement" - I hope you continue to do the things that please you, and inspire you also!