The character we're featuring today is no other than our very own Gail. We've had the honor to employ her for 21 years at the Clearwater Travel Plaza. Gail is our goofy gal. We can always count on her for a good laugh, loyalty, and a positive attitude. She met her husband in high school, and has been married for 38 years. They proudly call two children and six grandkids theirs. Gail is known for her wit, charm, and sense of humor. Keep reading to get a glimpse of her zest for life.
Favorite Menu Item:
The Prime Rib Kicker- it's juicy prime rib piled on a grilled onion cheddar bun smothered with fried onions and pepper jack cheese. Yummmmm.
Why did you decide to join the Clearwater Travel Plaza team?
The location is close to home and I really enjoy being able to pick on, nicely of course, our customers.
How did you hear about CTP?
I saw an ad in the newspaper years ago, and thought I'd see what the organization was all about. I was working for a local cabinet manufacturer at the time, the wear and tear on my body was starting to take a toll on me. I decided a new job would be a good change of pace.
Describe a typical or memorable day:
My main goal is to make my workplace fun. I really like to entertain our customers. Most of the professional drivers know me by name. I've worked the various shifts, and they always point out facts. Most often, they hear about things before I do! I'm a spunky social butterfly.
What is your favorite thing about CTP?
We all get along like family, I enjoy the camaraderie.
Fun fact about yourself that might surprise others?
I make fleece blankets. Each year, I donate a blanket to the silent auction for the Walk for Hope and Golf for Hope events hosted by CTP.
What do you like on your pizza?
The Full Nelson - made with traditional red sauce piled high with Canadian bacon, pepperoni, Italian sausage, diced onions, green peppers, fresh mushrooms, green olives, black olives, and Mozzarella cheese blend. The more toppings the better!
Do you have a favorite season?
Christmas is my favorite time of year. I love the joy and excitement it brings to my kids, grandkids, and enjoy our time together.
What superhero power do you wish you had?
Wonder Woman, so I really could do everything.
Favorite thing about Minnesota?
The seasons.
Hobbies/talents/interests:
Baking and making fleece blankets are two things I enjoy doing in my free time.
Who is the most influential person in your life?
My mom, who taught me to work hard for what you want in life. I grew up on a farm with six brothers and three sisters. Life back then isn't what it is today, hard work was a different kind of hard work.
What kind of music do you listen to?
Country.
What other languages do you speak?
I've always wanted to learn Swedish and Finnish, as my dad speaks both fluently.
What is the most incredible view you've ever seen?
The lake view at my grandparents' cabin.
If you could choose one amenity to add to CTP, what would it be?
I think it would be really neat to expand upon a restaurant in the Fuel Center. I'm a bit partial because that's where I spend the majority of my time. At any rate, we already have so much to offer our customers it's hard to think of anything more needing to be added.
Have you ever met anyone famous?
There are lots of tour buses that stop at CTP, I've never met anyone in person. Although, I'll never forget the one time Neal McCoy's gang was here and I received a CD. I still have it!
What would be the title of your autobiography?
Grandma Gail's Adventures.
Do you have a favorite board or card game?
I received the Game of Life as a Christmas gift and have enjoyed it ever since. I played it as a kid growing up and now have fun playing it with my grandkids.
What is one piece of advice you would give others?
"Treat others as you would treat yourself."
What excites you the most?
Fridays!
The staff that we employ all have such unique personalities, bringing Clearwater Travel Plaza to life. When you need a recharge, good laugh, or really delicious food, you can always count on us to deliver all of that and more. We're famous for all sorts of things, but we are most proud of our people.
