Leisure Group Travel Enhances Foothold in Southern U.S. with New Editorial, Sales Representation

Two Industry Veterans Join Firm

Willowbrook, Illinois (November 3, 2010) – Leisure Group Travel, America’s Leading Group Travel publication and website, is expanding its presence in the Southern region with the addition of two key staff members.

Dave Bodle, a 25-year publishing veteran and former publisher of the Carolina Explorer, Virginia Explorer and Tennessee Trails group travel publications, has joined the firm as Senior Editor.  In his new role, Bodle will be responsible for helping guide the magazine’s editorial direction in the Southern United States.

“We’re excited to add Dave’s expertise at Leisure Group Travel,” states Randy Mink, Managing Editor.  “His knowledge of the Southern group travel market is second to none, and as we expand our regional coverage in 2011 to cover each Southern state, it couldn’t come at a better time.”

Additionally, Bodle will contribute a marketing-themed editorial column in each edition of the magazine.  Columns will be based on his two decades’ experience working with tour planners.

“This opportunity to provide tour and destination insights into the Southeast is very exciting to me,” he said. “Showcasing what makes this region special will be a delightful task.”

New Sales Structure

Cheryl Rash joins the company as Regional Manager, Southeast Region.  A four-year group travel industry veteran, Rash comes from Bus Tours magazine, where she was a consistent top producer.

“Cheryl’s experience in the field will help her in developing effective marketing programs for our clients in the Southeast region”, states Jeff Gayduk, publisher of Leisure Group Travel.  “She’s a dynamic personality who understands the business.”

Rash’s responsibility includes the states of Kentucky, South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia and Alabama.

Additionally, Ellen Klesta, who’s celebrating her seventh year at Premier Tourism Marketing, and 15^th year in the travel industry, takes over responsibility for sales and marketing in the state of Virginia.  Ms. Klesta currently manages the Mid Atlantic territory for the firm with a solid track record of sales and customer service.

“As the industry starts to see a turnaround, we’re repositioning our company to better work with clients to develop their group business,” states Gayduk. “This starts with Leisure Group Travel and extends to our family of niche market publications, websites and e-newsletters covering the student, sports, reunion and religious market.  Our goal is to be the total solution provider, with each product backed by trackable results.”

About Leisure Group Travel

Since 1994, Leisure Group Travel has been helping group travel planners organize better trips.  The magazine’s industry-leading print and online circulation includes tour operators, bus companies, bank travel clubs, religious travel groups, travel agents and independent, niche and affinity group planners.  For more information on Leisure Group Travel magazine, visit www.leisuregrouptravel.com, call 630.794.0696, or email advertising@ptmgroups.com.