The Surprise Announcement Is Sad... But The Transition Seems To Have Gone Off Rather Well

It came as a surprise... and a sad one at that. Mid-morning Tuesday, EAA Communication Boss dick Knapinski put the word out that there was to be an unscheduled announcement at the Brown Arch on the grounds of Wittman Field... the rumor mill went into over-drive but the prevalent story was that Tom was ready to hand ALL the reins over to new EAA President and CEO, Rod Hightower.

And that's what happened. For whatever reasons the announcement came with so little warning, Tom Poberezny made it clear that he was ready for the next stage in his life, that he was inordinately proud of the work that he and so many others had done, and that EAA was in good hands for the future. We'll let the video speak for itself,but we admit to great sadness at the announcement as far as the aviation world is concerned and some true feelings of happiness to see Tom enjoy the prospect of a new future.

We've enjoyed working with him... even when the conversations were tough ones (and I appreciate his willingness to take on some of those tough talks), and the plain fact of the matter is that he is leaving EAA better off... and that the rest of the sport aviation world owes him some serious thanks and our best wishes for his future... Barely 65, he has a great life ahead of him and after he has a chance to detox a while, I predict we'll hear from Tom quite a bit... and that's as it should be.

To Tom... with all due and proper respect, we wish you the best... and look forward to working again with you long into the future. It's been an honor and a privelege.

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