You might be surprised to learn that I was once a cover model for a widely circulated publication. You'll be less surprised to learn that the publication in question was the Marsh-McBirney Flo-Mate Instruction Manual and the image of me is a bit hard to recognize. So, what got me thinking about this? After more than 25 years and many thousands of units sold we are retiring the Model 2000 Flo-Mate. It's been a reliable workhorse for so many of you but frankly it's also in need of an upgrade. So while we say goodbye to the Flo-Mate, we say hello to the Hach FH950. You're going to love this thing. Why? Here's a few features you've been asking for:

• Step by step user interface simplifies programming
• Delivers real time data, and downloads direct to PC
• Automatically calculates total discharge based on USGS and ISO methods
• Real-time velocity graphed on color display
• Electromagnetic sensor co-developed by Hach and Larry Marsh

So, check it out. We started shipping this week.

Speaking of retiring... I'll take this opportunity to announce the retirement at the end of this month of a long-time Marsh-McBirney and Hach employee, Tom Mulleady. Many of you will recognize Tom's name (and probably his voice) - as he has served as Customer Support Manager for quite some time. Tom has worked for us for over 18 years - originally from 1974-1981 as Marsh-McBirney's first sales manager. He returned in 2001 to head up Customer Service.

Tom is a tireless supporter of our customers and their specific needs. I have learned a lot from him over the years and will miss having him at the helm in Customer Service. That said, I am also delighted that his responsibilities will be assumed by Ian Morrison. While Tom's shoes will be tough to fill, I have no doubt that Ian is the one to do it.