I just returned from the Kentucky Postal Workers Union convention held in Lexington, Kentucky.  Gary Fox, long-time president of the KPWU decided not to run for reelection, but in reality he "retired" from active union work.  

You need to know that Brother Fox was the definition of an active and committed postal unionist.  He served his local and state organization with dedication and expertise for more than two decades.  He will be missed by all of us in the labor movement.

Gary was more than a union brother to me.  He is a friend and confidant.  Over the years we communicated on a regular basis about all things union, expecially about APWU matters.  Gary loved his union but was never afraid to stand up and speak out when he thought things were going astray or when decisions were made that damaged the membership.  You cannot ask for someone to do more than that because we need voices of reason.

He was also instrumental in keeping the Tri-State Association (Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana) the strongest of it's kind in the entire APWU.  This association has benefited the members of the three states for almost 30 years.  Gary served on the Board of the Tri-State Stewards School and was one of our instructors each year.  He did an outstanding job.

We want to thank his family for supporting him in his union work.  They are the reason he was able to keep active for so long.  Now they will have Gary around much more often and I am sure his grandchildren are very happy.

It is extremely difficult to replace talent and dedication like Gary.  I will miss him not only as a union brother but as a long-time friend.  I want to wish him the happiest, longest, and safest retirement!!! Thank-you my friend.

Michael Macho of Radcliffe, Kentucky was elected to replace Gary.  I know him to be a good union person and know he will give it his best effort.  Ohio will surely support his efforts.  Others elected in Kentucky include Denny Palmer as Vice-President, Clyde Trent as Secretary/Treasurer, Denny Wolfe as Clerk Craft Director, Brian Allen as Maintenance Director, Clyde Hawkins as MVS Director and Art Campos, John Hunt, Matt Sosh, and David Smith as Area Representatives.  Congratulations to all.

Terry Grant, President OPWU AFL-CIO