I think a lot of people missed the fact that the REIT deal was not really about the whole leaseback situation. Unless you read the fine print and understood it, you voted to allow it.
But what you missed was the fact that in that fine print, everyone gave up their shares of stock to the Windstream entity that controlled everything. You also gave the board members the right to not have to bring a vote to the shareholders when a major decision was needed.
That's right! You gave up your voice in the company and agreed to let Tony and the boys make the decisions that affect you without your vote being needed!
When was the last time you received a notice to cast your vote?? I'll tell you. Probably about 3 or 4 years ago when all of the top brass and peon managers were saying how important it was for you to cast your vote in favor of the REIT.
Remember That? I bet you do now!