Well, as some of you have probably already heard, read on the Internet, or finally were able to get that magic eight ball to reveal, my time in the Driver's Seat here at CLASSIC TRUCKS has come to an end. For me, the journey was an unforgettable one, to say the least, and in my 15-plus years in the business, the last five with CT alone undeniably taught me more, opened my eyes more, and grounded me more than the entire decade preceding.
To harness any possible speculations or rumors, let me explain, if I may. This past August, the group in which CLASSIC TRUCKS is part of-Street Rodder, Rod & Custom, and Custom Classic Trucks-did a little restructuring. Among other things, an opening was created on R&C, and I was given the opportunity to take over as editor. Despite what many of you might assume, it was not a simple or even an easy decision to make. For one, I'd become quite comfortable in the Driver's Seat here, but beyond that, even though most magazines are getting hit hard in these tough economic times, CT has done rather well. For me, that spelled job security-to have that AND enjoy what you do for a living in this day and age, well, it's a win-win situation. However, something inside me took all the focus off the comfort and security and directed more on "challenge"
Five years ago, I was challenged to do something with CLASSIC TRUCKS, and for the most part, I believe I did. While there's still plenty of challenge left in the classic truck market, there was a whole lot more presented to me when the deal with Rod & Custom was offered up. That little voice inside was telling me that if I chose the secure comfort road, I'd always be wondering "what if" and regretting the decision to not accept that huge challenge. Suffice it to say, the non-gambler has taken that turn in the road where the signs, if there are any, are hard to read, and where it will lead, I really don't know-I'm hoping it's as smooth and enjoyable as it's been on this last leg of my journey with all of you.
Filling my shoes, which are really his hand-me-downs in the first place if you think about it, is someone many of you are already very familiar with: Jim Rizzo, or Riz as most refer to him. Yep, good ol' Riz will be assuming the position as it were, which is beyond comforting for me, as I know I'm leaving things in good hands. It's been quite a while since he's sat in the editor's chair, and even though I don't think he rides a bicycle, I know that it won't take long till it seems like he never left in the first place.
And don't worry, you haven't heard the last of me! I've still got a ways to go with Dirty, and as long as Riz lets me, I'll continue with the project on a semi-regular basis. Until next time, I wish you all a fond farewell-I hope everyone enjoyed the ide as much as I did!