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