Current employees, former employees, family members, clients, suppliers and friends gathered at GBI to usher in the holidays at the Third Annual Holiday Open House.  Guests feasted on a buffet of tasty hors d’oeuvres, food and drinks, while exchanging stories and basking in the spirit of the season.  Many of the GBI Team brought other family members to share this special time, providing a great opportunity to meet and get to know the GBI extended family a little better. 

And there were some firsts, too…  This is the first year GBI has had co-op students, so both Paul Carhuatanta and Brian Myers were in attendance “tipping glasses” with the veterans.  Mark Mills and Steve Taylor, both new at GBI this year, were seen mingling through the crowd.  Harold Anness, a special guest and close friend of Michelle Bevan’s, finally attended after 2 years of missing the party because “I didn’t get an invitation” (sure Harold…).   After a few hours of soaking up the ambiance and some mild pressure from Michelle, Harold promised that he would never miss again.

The “look of love” was also beaming on a few faces.  Bryan Stevenson’s fiancé, Bridgett, was persuaded to show off her beautiful, new engagement ring to everyone who was near.  The love-struck look in Justin Dutro’s eyes should have been a clue that in a couple of days he would be announcing his engagement to Ellie Schmalz, but we all missed it.  John and Ondrea Francy found a special gift under the Christmas tree, much to their enjoyment.

We extend a sincere thank you to all those who took time to share the holiday with us.  If you were unable to attend, we missed you.  We look forward to seeing everyone again in 2006 on the first Friday in December, so mark your calendars!  Until then, we wish you a happy and prosperous new year.