A tribute to a retiring colleague
Veteran newspaperman Tom Green closed out his career last night in The Spokesman-Review newsroom, capping a distinguished career as a first-rate reporter and editor.
Tom and I have been friends and colleagues since 1987, having worked together at the Wichita Eagle and the Spokesman-Review. I was an assistant editor when Tom joined the Eagle in 1987 as its aviation writer. The aviation industry was a huge employer in Wichita for decades and covering that topic was considered a prime beat at the newspaper. He later became an editor of national and international news and we worked together for several years in that subject area.
Tom is a Spokane native and a Ferris High School grad, so when an opening developed at the Spokesman, he was eager to join us and return home. He eventually became our lead editor of national and international news and continued to excel in that role.
Tom is without a doubt one of the smartest, most passionate journalists I've ever had the good fortune to work with and know. Tom's knowledge and recall of history, politics, business and sports is both uncanny and inspiring. Most newsrooms are full of unsung heroes who go about their work with style and commitment, characteristics that Tom demonstrated every day. I was Tom's direct supervisor for a few wonderful years in Wichita and cannot recall anyone who was more supportive and loyal than he.
Tom and I share many interests, including college basketball. I remember when we worked in Wichita he occasionally would mention this little-known school on the West Coast that was becoming a program to be reckoned with on the national scene. I humored him, of course, then became a believer when I moved to Spokane 13 years ago and immediately bought season tickets for Gonzaga basketball. You were so right, Tom. As you usually are.
Tom is a Yale graduate, a credential that is somewhat uncommon in most newsrooms. I've always believed he ended up at Yale because he couldn't get admitted to Ball State, my alma mater. I think he recovered very well and made a name for himself as a superb journalist and wise friend. Enjoy this next chapter, buddy.
-30-
