I have an old friend who always says…”If it’s free…it’s for me!”

Today is YTB’s last Red Carpet Day of 2009. Just like all the other Red Carpet Days that came before it, YTB offers a free lunch. It wasn’t a big deal back in the beginning when the company was located on the top floor of an old bank building in downtown Alton, IL with a handful of people showing up to meat Coach, Scott, and Kim. The handful grew into a dozen, and then a hundred, to today – when well over one thousand people show up to tour the YTB Home Office to kick the tires and see if this company is for real.

There’s something about Red Carpet Day that cements the company as “the real deal” when you have a chance to actually see the facility and the people who work there. I remember being blown away at the various departments and the organization of the layout. It was also a real treat to personally meet some of the Home Office Team that I had been communicating with either via support tickets, e-mail, or phone conversations. Many in the home office staff have been there for years and over time you develop relationships with them. To have a chance to put a face to a name enhances that relationship.

While the office buildings may have changed, the home office staff has expanded, and the number of people who experience Red Carpet each event has certainly grown over the years – one thing has remains the same.

They still offer a free lunch.

While I know there are those who follow the old quote “There’s no such thing as a free lunch” there is one small catch. After lunch, it’s time to put your business hat on and listen to the CEO of YTB Marketing (and newly appointed Chairman of the Board) Scott Tomer as he explains the YTB business model to new prospects.

One of the things I love about Scott is that he lays it out from the very beginning – that if the YTB model doesn’t make sense, do him and everyone else a favor and don’t join. There’s no “rah rah” or “motivational talk” from Scott. The model is laid out in black and white, without any sugar coating – and many of the worn out myths and misconceptions about MLM and Network Marketing are brought up and challenged for those who care to listen to someone who not only has practical experience but has had a considerable amount of success in the model.

I remember the first time I heard Scott tell people not to join. I woke me up – because I had never heard anyone say something like that before. Today, I understand not only why he leads with this, but find it extremely effective. I see to many newcomers in the Direct Sales industry either beg, or tell someone that they need this in order to save them from financial ruin. YTB just like any other job, opportunity, or investment is a choice. If you want to come along for the ride – great – let’s get to work. For those who are unsure or don’t like Direct Sales, that’s fine too. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea and not everyone is comfortable with being paid based on results. For Scott and myself, we’re going to continue down this path regardless of your perceptions. Just like you, that’s our choice. I don’t need any convincing because I’ve already taken great vacations, I’ve already made both travel commissions and marketing commissions, and I’ve already seen that this model works when you work it the right way.

What Red Carpet is designed to do is help both the newcomer and the existing IBC or Rep understand that real people run this company. There is also a real home office with real customer service people who are there to answer questions and offer training and support. It certainly helps to see it live and in living color.

While it’s a little late to make the free lunch today. Red Carpet will be back in full force in 2010. When the schedule comes out for the spring, I’d highly recommend that you find a date and go. It’s one thing to be part of YTB, but when YTB becomes part of you at Red Carpet, it’s a whole new ballgame. Not only is it enlightening, it’s interactive and fun, and if nothing else, there’s a free lunch in the deal.

Take a look for yourself.

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By the time you read this, our family will be in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. I’ve come equiped with my  “What part of NO do you not understand?” T-shirt which I purchased the last time we were in port here. (For those of you who have been here, you know why we need a shirt like this.) We’ll spend a relaxing day at Bamboo Beach Club since the kids wanted some beach time. (And still too young for Dunn’s River Falls)

Tomorrow is a big day in Grand Cayman. We’ll do a couple of excursions including swashbuckling on a Cayman Pirate Adventure in the morning and then spend the afternoon at Dolphin Discovery and the Cayman Turtle Farm.

Later that evening, we will dine and celebrate my daughters 8th (going on 18) birthday aboard Carnival Destiny.

This particular ship has been the top pick for a number of our clients since it was refurbished and started sailing it’s 4 and 5 day itineraries to the Caribbean from Miami. When Ronda and I were awarded Team MVP by our Directors at Convention and given a Carnival Gift Certificate as a way to say thanks for all we do, I pretty much immediately knew when and were we wanted to go.

Of course, you can’t have a proper birthday party without family involved. So we invited extended family to come along for the party on the World’s Most Popular Cruise Line. (They know a really good Travel Agent who got them one heck of a deal.)

So while you enjoy RPM and Red Carpet Day, we’ll be stuck down here in the Caribbean – thousands of miles away. (And lovin’ every minute of it.)

I’ll probably hit the internet cafe a time or two, but don’t be looking for any posts during the week. Like our newsletter that went out yesterday, this was written and scheduled last week before we left.

To keep you entertained – check out our favorite cruise tune this trip. I’m a classic rock and roller, but Michael Franti and Spearhead’s new tune “Say Hey (I love you)” gave me happy feet the first time I heard it. It’s got a create Caribbean beat and will certainly give you the itch.

So until I get back around the way – Enjoy!

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As the day progressed yesterday the hotel here at the Renaissance began to fill up. We’ll most likely see another huge wave as people come in for the General Sessions Friday and Saturday. This years Convention is certain starting to hit it’s stride.

So far, I’ve been extremely impressed with the quality of the classes we’ve participated in for YTBU. I think part of what we’re seeing here is a result of having some of our Directors polish their presentations the last few months for YTBU at Red Carpet. I’m a real stickler for quality presentations with my background both in theater and radio. I look for quality information as well as a polished presentation. While YTBU has been good in years past, it’s been elevated to a new level this year in both cases.

While mixing with everyone else here, Ronda and I have been stopped countless times for our work both here and for our newsletter. The appreciation and gratitude has been both rewarding and humbling. When news broke about my interview with George Dooley in Travel Agent Central late yesterday afternoon the entire convention was a buzz. When you combine that with “PJ” sightings here, it turned from buzz to laughter over the attempts to mud up the tone and posture of this convention. Once again, our critics who have always been on the outside looking in continue their malicious attacks against something (and someone) they can’t control.

The further we dive into this years convention with thousands showing up here in St. Louis, quality information being dispersed, and quality articles being written in trade publications about YTB and it’s members; the nastier the tone on the outside gets.

You need to remember that this years convention wasn’t suppose to happen. California took care of that with last years stunt about YTB being nothing more that a “gigantic pyramid scheme”. Combine that with what some claim is a model that’s designed to fail you’ve got yourself a sure bet that the house of cards will tumble.

Or so they think.

Instead, what they have found is a model, Founders, and members who are far more seasoned and resilient to malicious and slanderous attacks. I know it’s cliche but what our company has been through in the last year has built an incredible amount of character. As I meet everyone here this year, I see a resolve that I didn’t see last year. Because of the persistence to hold on to our beliefs, our dreams, and our goals we’re all here to celebrate and congratulate each other this year. Has it always been easy? Have we handle everything flawlessly? Of course not. But because we focus on the solution not the problem we’ve been able to overcome the obstacles that have been thrown in our way. That’s what separates the winners from the losers.

This years convention has an attitude and swagger that I haven’t seen in years past. That’s not to say that we’ve never had that, but it’s different this year. In years past, it was more talk. This year, you can see it in the walk. It’s a posture and firm resolve that I’ve not seen before with a very certain and distinctive change in attitude.

The last YTBU class Ronda and I went to yesterday talked about how the perception has changed over the course of the year from that of an “opportunity” to a “business” presentation. The class struck a cord with us, because both Ronda and I have talked about it between ourselves and I’ve written about it here. Because of what we’ve been through, we’ve all raised the bar when it comes to seeking out team members to that of business partners. In years past, having a travel website was more of a novelty, everyone wanted one.

Because of the changes (thanks to California) what we now have is a Internet e-Commerce Business that caters to the professional. Combine that with millions of people who through no fault of their own, have been laid off or downsized, and are now looking for another alternative. George and I talked about how the rules and regulations change because of the franchise model we are implementing in California and eventually make company wide.

I’ve always said that if you work YTB like a hobby, it will pay you like a hobby. However, if you work YTB like a business, it will pay you like a business. Those that have fallen off in the past year were the hobbyist, and that’s by no means meant to be a slam on them. Not everyone is looking for or has the desire to run a business. They may have other opportunities, a family, or other interests that they may want to pursue and focus on. Those that are here in St. Louis however see the same thing that Ronda and I saw 4 years ago, an Internet e-Commerce business.

We saw a very compelling video during this class that I wanted to share with you here. Take some time to review it and see if it makes sense to you. Also take some time to think about how YTB currently answers the many changes this video points out when it comes to technology and e-Commerce. If you can’t find the answer now, not to worry. With some of the blockbuster announcements coming both Friday and Saturday during the General Sessions, you will.

Off to class!

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I like to read other blogs, particularly other blogs that promote self improvement, responsibility, and discipline. If I’m going to spend my time reading, I would prefer to read something that enriches me rather than tears me down. Nick Pagano is a Level 2 Director up in Detroit, Michigan who I’ve gotten to know a little better over the last couple of trips up to Wood River and Red Carpet Day. I had the pleasure of having dinner with him and a select number of other Directors and Corporate Heads during my last trip to Wood River and upon my return I subscribed to his blog.

One of the coolest aspects about YTB is a willingness to share our experience and information with each other no matter who their upline or downline might be. Nick has provided insight on success that I admire. I’ve heard some of the stories he’s written before while reading other books and blogs. It’s refreshing to see someone who understands and appreciates the same principles about life and success as I do.

I received his latest entry yesterday and enjoyed it so much I wanted to share it here.

Confidence is a critical piece of the puzzle when it comes to success. If you you don’t believe you can do something, your own limitation will prohibit you from accomplishing it. Yet, self-confidence will enable you to achieve goals and dreams that others would consider impossible. (Even when others yell at you that you can’t.)

Nick provided 10 key things you can do to help you gain more self confidence while at the same time improving your image with others. By following this very simple and easy list, you’ll find your self-confidence soaring to new heights.

1. Dress Sharp

As evidenced by the show, clothes don’t make the man or woman, but they certainly affect the way they feel about themselves. No one is more conscious of your physical appearance than you are. When you don’t look good, it changes the way you carry yourself and interact with other people. Use this to your advantage by taking care of your personal appearance. In most cases, significant improvements can be made by bathing and shaving frequently, wearing clean clothes, and being cognizant of the latest styles.This doesn’t mean you need to spend a lot on clothes. One great rule to follow is “spend twice as much, buy half as much”. Rather than buying a bunch of cheap clothes, buy half as many but select high quality items. In the long run this decreases spending because expensive clothes wear out less easily and stay in style longer than cheap clothes. Buying less also helps reduce the clutter in your closet.

2. Walk Faster

One of the easiest ways to tell how a person feels about herself is to examine her walk. Is it slow? tired? painful? Or is it energetic and purposeful? People with confidence generally walk quickly. They have places to go, people to see, and important work to do. Even if you aren’t in a hurry, you can increase your self confidence by putting some pep in your step. Walking 25% faster will make to you look and feel more important.

3. Good Posture

Similarly, the way a person carries herself tells a story. People with slumped shoulders and lethargic movements display a lack of self confidence. They aren’t enthusiastic about what they’re doing and they don’t consider themselves important. By practicing good posture, you’ll automatically feel more confident. Stand up straight, keep your head up, and make eye contact. You’ll make a positive impression on others and instantly feel more alert and empowered.

4. Personal Commercial

One of the best ways to build confidence is listening to a motivational speech. Unfortunately, opportunities to listen to a great speaker are few and far between. You can fill this need by creating a personal commercial. Write a 30-60 second speech that highlights your strengths and goals. Then recite it in front of the mirror aloud (or inside your head if you prefer) whenever you need a confidence boost.

5. Gratitude

When you focus too much on what you want, the mind creates reasons why you can’t have it. This leads you to dwell on your weaknesses. The best way to avoid this is consciously focusing on gratitude. Set aside time each day to mentally list everything you have to be grateful for. Recall your past successes, unique skills, loving relationships, and positive momentum. You’ll be amazed how much you have going for you and motivated to take that next step towards success.

6. Compliment other people

When we think negatively about ourselves, we often project that feeling on to others in the form of insults and gossip. To break this cycle of negativity, get in the habit of praising other people. Refuse to engage in backstabbing gossip and make an effort to compliment those around you. In the process, you’ll become well liked and build self confidence.  By looking for the best in others, you indirectly bring out the best in yourself.

7. Sit in the front row

In schools, offices, and public assemblies around the world, people constantly strive to sit at the back of the room. Most people prefer the back because they’re afraid of being noticed. This reflects a lack of self confidence. By deciding to sit in the front row, you can get over this irrational fear and build your self confidence. You’ll also be more visible to the important people talking from the front of the room.

8. Speak up

During group discussions many people never speak up because they’re afraid that people will judge them for saying something stupid. This fear isn’t really justified. Generally, people are much more accepting than we imagine. In fact most people are dealing with the exact same fears. By making an effort to speak up at least once in every group discussion, you’ll become a better public speaker, more confident in your own thoughts, and recognized as a leader by your peers.

9. Work out

Along the same lines as personal appearance, physical fitness has a huge effect on self confidence. If you’re out of shape, you’ll feel insecure, unattractive, and less energetic. By working out, you improve your physical appearance, energize yourself, and accomplish something positive. Having the discipline to work out not only makes you feel better, it creates positive momentum that you can build on the rest of the day.

10. Focus on contribution

Too often we get caught up in our own desires. We focus too much on ourselves and not enough on the needs of other people. If you stop thinking about yourself and concentrate on the contribution you’re making to the rest of the world, you won’t worry as much about your own flaws. This will increase self confidence and allow you to contribute with maximum efficiency. The more you contribute to the world the more you’ll be rewarded with personal success and recognition.

Dr. Blueman
www.drblueman.com

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Do You ZamZuu?

Sigh…here we go again. I’m guessing at this point that we’re just going to keep pushing this notion about YTB being some sort of “pyramid scheme” going until a court, or other legal authority rules in favor of it. I think most are just happy saying it enough times to themselves thinking that if they do, it will actually come true. (There’s no place like home….there’s no place like home….there’s no place…..)

Once again, we have someone (who happens to be the State of Illinois) who thinks that in order for anyone to have a chance to recruit others into the YTB opportunity, business, what ever you choose to call it, you need to pay to play. I contend, just like I have all along, that nobody pays a single red cent for the “opportunity to recruit others”. Instead they pay for a booking engine, a product, to sell travel, services, and goods. What they do with that product and how much money they make using that product depends on how serious they are about marketing with it.

Some could contest that Jerry Brown has stated that he has put an end to to the elaborate scheme based on his press release last Thursday. However, for as many times as I’ve read the actual settlement, the word “pyramid” was only mentioned once, we denied it, and it was never challenged or brought up again by the State.

Instead, the settlement outlines what we’ve been doing all along; that nobody is required nor does anyone pay to become a Rep, Independent Marketing Representative, or what is now stated in the settlement as a “Website Seller”. You are also free to become a Website Seller without becoming a Website Owner or a Website Owner without becoming a Website Seller.

Contrary to what some of the papers and media have been reporting, YTB is still doing business in California. In fact, Scott and Lauri Tomer we there for two meetings this past weekend. Why Scott would visit so soon after YTB ended, or from being banned I couldn’t tell you.

Maybe ego’s need to be stroked and the media is just looking for a juicy headline…hummmmmmm.

I’ve never seen a week when more Google Alerts and Trade Publications mention YTB more than it did last week. Not even at Convention last year when the carefully crafted suit was filed in hopes that is would make everyone scurry home instead of enjoying what we came to see. (One heck of a show and some good fellowship with like minded friends.) I even went back to check my e-mail on the Google alerts and it wasn’t even half as many as last weeks all time high. Reading the headlines and a couple of the stories associated with them, I just have to shake my head and wonder what this fascination is with our company.

Bottom line, I have to believe that it’s “fear” based on pure ignorance. (False Evidence Appearing Real) Ignorance by the way does not mean that you’re stupid by the way, it simply means that you don’t know what you need to in order to make a sound choice or decision. I have to also say this is my “belief” because I certainly don’t, nor would I ever want to “think” like some of these poeple think. It’s just not a makeup that suits me (or anyone) favorably. Most of the focus is based in that green stuff we call money. They say that money is number one cause for divorce, and for good reason. Most poeple don’t know what to do or how to feel about money. It’s an item that has far to many limiting beliefs attached to it.

When it comes to YTB and money, you certainly don’t have to pick sides of who you’re pulling for or you’re hating here. You can, and most do, pick both.

On the one side, they hate the greedy rich people who conned everyone out of their money and are now living the high life in big mansions, driving exotic cars and flaunting it in front of everyone. Then there’s the other side, the “victims”, the people who got their pockets picked that these crusaders are trying to protect and keep safe.

This protecting that they do, reminds me of a story about a man many, many years ago who decided it might be best to actually teach people to fish, rather than give them a fish so they can eat for one day. But that might have to wait for another time and another post. (Although teaching is what I’ve been doing with this blog for many, many years for those who want to listen.)

So here we are, right back where we started again. California behind us, and able to continue doing business with some better clarification on what makes them “feel better” about who we are and what we do. Now it’s time to find out, and we do have a much better idea of what Illinois concerns are, to help them with their issues surrounding who our company is and what our company actually does.

By the way, and I’ll leave you with this before I head up to Wood River this morning for Red Carpet.

While it was mentioned back in August that Illinois was co-operating with California during it’s investigation of YTB, did you know that Illiniois didn’t bother to contact YTB once during the entire 9 month process? Heck we didn’t even know what was filed in the suit until Friday when we they fixed thier fax and sent it to us. (Apparently they only had one in the office that was broken.)

We did get in touch with them on Friday, and we’ll have our first sit down with them shortly concerning what they believe. I know…it might have helped during the California proceedings…but that’s not how this whole thing is designed to work here. The plan is to keep the words “pyramid” and “deceptive” in the public eye long enough that it bleeds the company dry via legal costs and loss of recruiting numbers to put us out of business.

Or at least that’s the hope. ;-P

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A couple weeks ago, I warned about how bad Royal Caribbeans 4th quarter numbers would be. The morning I wrote it, the financials had not been out yet, but later that day we came to find out fourth-quarter earnings tumbled 98 percent. No big surprise as the entire industry is struggling in this economy, but when you combine it with poor business decisions it’s clear that those decisions are starting to catch up with them. Terminating entire agencies, upping commission thresholds for others who they’re suppose to be supporting, combined with the mega ships they’re building and can’t afford has the company cutting back in other areas that has many either concerned or just downright upset.

Having someone like me miffed is one thing, but when you get an entire state upset over how you conduct your business is another. The 49th state in the Union, who happens to be celebrating it’s 50th Anniversary of Statehood this year is now “worried” over Royal Caribbeans decission to take an entire ship out of circulation starting 2010. Serenade’s removal next year will decrease tourists by 42,000 passengers, and is estimated to drop revenue by some $55 million.

I can’t think of another destination that is more pristine than Alaska. Every client I have ever booked for Alaska has come back with comments of breathtaking views and once in a lifetime experiences. Other than the Caribbean it’s the most popular destination we sell at BandBVacations.com. With Alaska’s 50th anniversary this year there are more folks than ever looking at this destination for their family, even with the drastic time change (here on the east coast) and the higher cost of this cruise experience.

So why would Royal Caribbean drop Alaska?

Taxes. (A $50 per passenger tax that was put into effect back in 2006.)

One company’s loss is another company’s gain. Princess is the cruise line of choice not only passengers, but it’s been voted Best Cruise Line in Alaska by the readers of Travel Weekly magazine. (The last 5 years no less.) Princess has introduced a special new lineup of cruisetours that offer passengers the extra convenience of roundtrip travel from Seattle and due to the economy, unprecedented low fares. These new options make planning an Alaska land/sea vacation easier than ever by including all travel once the passenger gets to Seattle, including airfare between Seattle and Anchorage, as well as a free stateroom upgrade.

“Since 2009 is the 50th anniversary of Alaska’s statehood, this is the perfect year to visit the 49th state,” said Charlie Ball, president of Princess Tours. “And with these special cruisetour packages, we’re making a visit to the heart of Alaska more convenient than ever. All our passengers need to do is plan their travel to and from Seattle. We take it from there, so visitors can simply enjoy this incredible opportunity to visit Alaska’s top attractions, including Glacier Bay and Denali National Park.”

The new Alaska Wilderness Sale cruisetours include the line’s famed Voyage of the Glaciers sailings between Vancouver and Whittier — featuring calls at Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway with daylight cruising of Glacier Bay National Park and the 16 glaciers of College Fjord. Passengers can choose departures on either the 2,670-passenger Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess or the 1,970-passenger Coral Princess and Island Princess.

In addition, passengers will enjoy Direct to the Wilderness rail transportation right from their ship to the Denali area, giving them extra time in the heart of Alaska’s wilderness. Cruisetour options include two nights at Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge and one or two nights at Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge. The packages also include an overnight stay in Seattle.

Princess’ 2009 Alaska season runs from May 9 to September 14, and features a total of 130 Alaska sailings — including the signature Voyage of the Glaciers sailings, Inside Passage routes from Seattle and San Francisco, and a small ship experience on 14-day Connoisseur voyages to some of the state’s less-visited ports. In addition, Princess will again take more passengers to the ice-filled wonder of Glacier Bay National Park than any other line, with 81 cruises scheduled for this season.

I can’t think of a better time or way to visit Alaska. The low fairs, combined with the states 50th anniversary makes it a win win for anyone looking for a trip of lifetime.

As a side note, I’ll be somewhat out of touch with this blog the next two days. I’ve been invited up to the YTB Home Office for a Directors Meeting Tuesday and Wednesday and from the looks of the schedule, along with flying up and back, I don’t know how much time I’ll have to dedicate here. (In other words, don’t look for comments to be posted until late in the evening.)

You can be assured that most of what will be discussed will be found in this weekends Newsletter. Of course, I’ll update what I can here for everyone, but as you know, most of what myself or YTB puts out is taken out of context and twisted into something it’s not, so be sure to check here or via our newsletter to get the facts from someone who was actually there. (Remember one of my favorite quotes: “Don’t believe a word you hear unless you can verify it on your own to be true”.)

It will be good to see and be around so many friends again, some whom I’ve not seen since the National Convention this past summer.

Hope to see you Thursday!

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Do You ZamZuu?

I had an opportunity last week to visit the home office of YTB International, Inc. Back in December, the company moved to a brand new location in Wood River, Illinois for Phase II of a three phase process. It was the second move in as many years and needed to be done in order to keep pace with the company’s growth and long term vision of being the number one Internet Travel Company in the world. After this visit, I would have to agree with this vision and am not only confident that YTB Travel Network will be number one in the next few years, but am also very proud to be a key part of YourTravelBiz.

After more than two years with the company, the company has always exceeded my expectations in what it said it was going to do and provide to those of us out in the field. Making it easier and better for those of us who want to build and create a future for ourselves if we just plug into the systems they have laid out for us. I can think of several improvements and advances over the years that have far exceeded expectations. This visit to the new home office was no different.

I have to admit, as I came up on the building, it was not what I had expected. Nobody told me that the renovations for Phase II only consisted of work done on the inside of the building. The outside was simply a shell of the old K-mart that had been abandoned some 10 years before. It wasn’t until I walked inside the building that I started to get a taste of the type of work that had been done and why people were so excited about what was being built. Here is a taste of what I found.

The main lobby was open and very modern. A couple of large LCD displays were found behind the front counter to display pictures of previous events from the National Convention, Coach’s Birthday Bash, and other Regional Trainings and events across the country. Another display produced a quad display of security cameras around the front, side and hallways inside the building. A large YTB International, Inc. logo is proudly displayed as you walking into the lobby area. (Just in case you didn’t know where you were.) The front counter was a white oak, and the floors covered in an ivory marble.

The entire complex was very modern and quit festive, including a couple of surf boards propped up in the windows of several of the Department Heads, one which included “Surfer Girl” just inside Sandy Pippins office, who happens to be not only YTB’s first employee, but has grown with the company as Vice President of Corporate Administration.

As the tour began, I realized just how many people at the home office actually support us out in the field. The facility is separated into different sections totaling 190 employees who specialize in departments which include, Representative Support, Travel Support, Travel Documentation, Travel Fulfillment, Travel Credentials, Marketing, IT, Legal, Payroll, Association and Corporate, and even a specialized department for those of us who speak Spanish. All these people dedicated to helping those of us out in the field to answer questions and provide the best support possible. To top it off, you got a strong cense that these people not only enjoy what they do, but are happy and eager to help us. And why not, the same Christmas Bonus is up for grabs this year for these employees as last year, tripling the end of the year bonus if they hit the magic number of 152,269.

After the tour, a lunch was served at the Gateway Center, just south of the home office. After the luncheon we had a chance to meet with Chairman of the Board ‘Coach’ Lloyd Tomer, YTB Travel Network President J. Kim Sorensen, and YourTravelBiz CEO Scott Tomer. We also heard from Andrew Cauthen, who joined the YTBI team in November 2004 as Chief Operating Officer of the YTB subsidiary. He was subsequently named President of YTB in October 2006, and on March 1, 2007 was named CEO of YTBI. John Clagg, our newly appointed Treasurer, also serves as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of YTBI as well as its subsidiaries. He joined the Company in December 2003. Eric Smith, Chief Information Officer, the keeper of YTB’s massive IT infrastructure who joined the company in 2001. Ted Lindauer, Vice President of Legal and Regulatory Affairs and General Counsel, who has worked with the company since it’s inception in 2001, but recently closed his California practice to come work with YTB full time in the summer of 2006. The YTB management team is unified in one vision – commitment and support to it’s RTA’s and Reps.

After listening to each of these Department heads, I’m more confident than ever that YTBI is here for the duration, and committed to supporting myself, and my growing team. As I grow, YTB grows with me. YTB has increased its corporate staff from fewer than 30 employees in 2004 to 190 as of March 8. Plans include doubling this support staff to 400 by the end of 2007, and a total of 750 by year end 2009. With only one quarter of the new home office being finished at this point in time, that leaves another 100,000 square feet to house this support staff.

I thought I saw something in this company more than two years ago. In reality, it’s actually better than I thought it would ever be. YTB has always had a way of exceeding my expectations and I’m thrilled to see what’s happening to this company. Now more than ever!

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