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Farewell to a friend

One aspect of my job that I always look forward to is touring a trade show with Peter Young.

There’s never a shortage of people who stop and talk to Peter, glad to see his smiling face and friendly demeanor.

I’ve known Peter for the 11 years I’ve worked at SP&T News — Peter has worked here for seven more than that as a sales manager and in more recent years, publisher.

Trade shows are, you might say, his natural habitat. He relishes meeting people, stretching his legs as he roams the aisles, eager for new business opportunities and the next conversation. Whether it’s shop talk, a chance to catch up with old friends, or maybe to arrange to meet for a steak and a beer at the end of the day, Peter is always game for a chat.

It was a particularly bitter sweet at the most recent CANASA Security Canada Central show in Toronto, Peter’s last major event as the publisher of SP&T. Peter is retiring at the end of this year and it’s going to be tough to see him leave. Everyone wanted to talk to Peter at that show, if only to confirm that, yes, it’s true, Peter is actually retiring, and to shake his hand and wish him well.

We’re going to miss having Peter around the office. He is, most of all, a good sport. Peter can take a joke (and dish them out) and he’s always willing to help out in any way he can. Whether it’s transporting carloads of magazines, banners and bric-a-brac to an industry function, showing up at 7 a.m. to set up a booth or MCing entire events, he’s willing to pitch in. Much of this magazine’s success is also down to Peter, who has tenaciously sold advertising space and other revenue-generators that have helped us grow over the years.

I’ve had the privilege of meeting lots of fascinating and hard-working people in the security industry. People who have opened my eyes to new perspectives, wowed me with their insights, and frankly, showed me some really cool stuff. This is our annual Hall of Fame issue where we spotlight the accomplishments of security professionals who have demonstrated dedication to their industry and helped others to succeed as well. Congratulations go to Joanne Rowe, Richard McMullen and Roger Miller — three people who richly deserve that recognition.

Peter Young is our unofficial fourth Hall of Famer this year. We wish Peter and his family all the best as he looks forward to the next chapter of his life.

This story appeared in the November/December 2018 issue of SP&T Magazine.