The smartest move in a 40-year career in sports journalism was jumping at the chance to join The Advertiser staff in 1987.

(Dumbest? Probably passing on a chance to cover a fight in the Philippines. Who knew it would be forever known as the Thrilla in Manilla.)

Of course there are the mementos, yellowing clips (Oregon Journal, 1969-71), a pica pole (Pacific Daily News, Guam, 1972-78), a Eugene Emeralds coffee mug (Register-Guard, 1978-87), a closet half full of Advertiser aloha shirts.

Most precious of all, great colleagues, a special mention to those who did marvelous jobs balancing careers and families.

Good luck to the staff of the new Star-Advertiser. And warmest aloha to those not making the cut, and perhaps starting new careers.

May your memories sustain you.