I really can’t believe that GT is celebrating five years of existence. It seems like such a short time ago since Fran first brought up the idea to me.
I remember several long phone conversations with Fran. We discussed distribution, circulation, auditing, the post office and other topics. I had been in publication distribution for a long time and had known Fran even longer. I was happy to help him in any way I could.
During one of his business trips to Chicago, Fran called me (in advance for once) and we agreed to meet at the Rosewood in Rosemont, IL to seriously discuss GT and my involvement. I really thought my involvement would be minimal and short-term. As the meeting progressed, I could see Fran’s excitement and seriousness firsthand. I started to see a clearly defined role for me. I remember sitting across from Fran and realizing that GT was going to happen and I was going to be a part of it. Immediately after I left the Rosewood, I called longtime friend and coworker Louie Atsaves. I previously had told Louie the basics, and he knew of Fran through my many stories. We didn’t think there would be much of a role for me at GT, but now I was telling him there was a need for both of us. On Fran’s next visit to Chicago, Louie and I met Fran for dinner and to officially sign on with GT.
After that call, I headed to downtown Chicago. A few friends were celebrating a birthday at the Hotel Allegro. As I entered, they chided me for being late (knowing I am a stickler for punctuality). I explained that I just came from a great meeting and that I thought GT was going to be pretty big. Little did I know that was going to turn out to be an understatement.
Everything about GT has grown during the first five years. The press run, the staff, the distribution areas, the subscribers, the website, the quality and the events all have increased. One thing that hasn’t grown is Fran’s ego (although some might say it was pretty big to start). Fran is one of the hardest-working people I know, and that ethic is shared by the entire GT staff. Fran and GT will never sit on its laurels. So, while I sit here and congratulate the GT family for five great years, I am also very excited to see what the next five years will hold. If the first five are any indication, it is going to continue to be one fantastic ride.
-John Wroblewski, distribution specialist
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Nov 22, 2024Waldorf Astoria Residences New York Announces Partnership with Bang & Olufsen
Waldorf Astoria Residences New York recently announced a partnership with Bang & Olufsen. The contemporary residences sit atop the legendary hotel, currently nearing the end of its expansive restoration.
Sponsored Content
Extraordinary Egypt
ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME JOURNEY INTO THE ANCIENT WORLD OF THE PHARAOHS
Daily
Nov 21, 2024Hotel Saint Augustine to Open in Houston’s Museum District Neighborhood
Hotel Saint Augustine, expected to softly open in Houston this December, is a design-savvy boutique hotel from Austin-based hospitality group Bunkhouse. The hotel will officially debut January 2025.
November 2024
Nov 21, 2024Immerse in an Invigorating Thermal Journey at Scandinave Spa Whistler
The glittering green pines and burst of jasmine lake beyond almost made me forget about the aches in my legs that slowly developed after the promised hour-long hike ran into the third hour. And, oh, there were my hips, showing up to remind me I was no longer in my 20s. I didn’t mind, though, because the vision that surrounded me during our guided walk through Garibaldi Park to Cheakamus Lake in Whistler, British Columbia, with Mountain Skills Academy and Adventures proved worthy of a thousand postcards.
Sponsored Content
United Airlines First to Purchase Sustainable Aviation Fuel for ORD
Chicago O’Hare International Airport will soon receive sustainable aviation fuel, all thanks to United Airlines, which became the first airline to purchase SAF for use at the airport, one of the largest in the United States. Neste, a producer of SAF, will provide up to 1 million gallons of its Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel. The first supply arrived in August.
Daily
Nov 21, 20245 Can’t-Miss Black Friday, Cyber Monday Hotel Deals
Plan to shop on Black Friday and Cyber Monday? Add these deals from hotels around the country to your shopping list.
Château des Fleurs Review
eFlyer Reviews
Nov 20, 2024eFlyer Deals
Nov 20, 2024Save Up to 50 Percent Off HX Expeditions
The world’s largest and first expedition cruise company offers up to 50 percent off select 2024/2025 voyages this Black Friday. You can save on select HX voyages to Antarctica, Galapagos, Alaska, the Northwest Passage, Greenland, Svalbard and South America, as well as the brand’s new Audubon Voyages.
Sponsored Content
Experience Next-Level Travel with Condor Airlines’ New A330neo Fleet
Condor Airlines completely renewed its long-haul fleet, featuring its new Airbus A330neo. Designed to elevate your travel experience, the A330neo is equipped with cutting-edge technology and offers unrivaled comfort, ensuring an exceptional journey for every passenger. With its striking signature striped livery, the A330neo not only promises a memorable flight but also enhances the start of your vacation from the moment you step aboard.
eFlyer Deals
Nov 20, 2024Xanterra Launches Thankful for Travel Sale
Xanterra Travel Collection’s Thankful for Travel Sale is finally here! This travel company’s sale, through Dec. 2, offers the biggest savings on national park stays, yacht-style cruises, historic train rides, legendary resorts, and walking and biking tours.
ShareThis