I agree with that decision. I know from experience what it is like in the CLE region and I truly feel that a off the street captain would have a terrible time adjusting. Its hard enough getting used to 121 operations and a new plane and being in charge, but throwing ALL the challenges of the Northern ops on top of that truly would be too much to tackle. There are just so many other things you have to REALLY think about that you dont consider when flying in warmer regions. It makes it MUCH harder. Spending some time in the right seat to see how things go is a safe and sound decision.