December 13, 2004

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NATIONAL MEDIATION BOARD

Contact: NMB Public Information Line -- (202) 692-5050

Re: NMB Mediator loses life in Accident

Washington, D.C. -- We are saddened to relay the news that a valued co-worker and member of our NMB family, Sam Cognata, lost his life in an automobile accident near Fredericksburg, Virginia, on Friday evening, December 10, 2004.

Sam was a top-flight mediator, a great friend and co-worker, and a wonderful husband and father. He will be missed by all.

The Cognata family is planning a memorial service in Fredericksburg, Virginia, on Saturday, December 18, 2004. More information, as it becomes available, can be obtained from the NMB by calling 202-692-5000.

We are sure everyone joins us in sending thoughts and prayers to the Cognata family.

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