In August 1994, I saw a classified ad in the local newspaper. It read something like this: "Managing editor needed for bus mag. Good working environment." Seeing that I was unemployed and likely to stay that way unless I developed some curiosity about editing jobs with bus mags, I called about the listing and a few days later was hired as senior editor at SCHOOL BUS FLEET magazine.

School buses? Why would anyone publish a magazine about school buses? What have I gotten myself into? I asked myself these questions repeatedly as I got started with my new job. Then I found out that the company, then called Bobit Publishing, also put out magazines about nail salons, security alarm installers and limousines. Hmm, I thought, maybe school buses aren't so bad after all.

Now, 13 years later, my initial apprehension about working for a school bus magazine seems not just inappropriate but almost bizarre. Covering the school bus industry has been a wonderful experience and has allowed me to meet hundreds of dedicated professionals, many of whom have become good friends. Now, I can't imagine not being a part of this industry, although that will soon change.

If you haven't already guessed, this is my going-away speech, inadequate as it is. Friday will be my last day at SBF and its parent company, Bobit Business Media. Next week I will throw myself headlong into a new business venture — creating an online job board for the transit industry. Eventually, it will be located at www.TransitTalent.com. If you remember, visit the site when it's up and running in a couple of months and let me know what you think.

In the meantime, be assured that SBF is left in capable hands. Tom McMahon, managing editor, will be promoted to executive editor and will take over the editorial helm. He'll be assisted by Claire Atkinson, associate editor, and Kelly Roher, assistant editor. I'm confident that Tom, Claire and Kelly will do a fantastic job in my wake.

Also, I'm not completely severing my ties to SBF. In the months ahead, I will be doing some freelance writing for the magazine and will serve on the editorial advisory board. You can't get rid of me that easily!

So, I guess this is not goodbye. It's more like, see ya later.

Thanks for making this such a great industry.

Best,

Steve