THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Wednesday, October 26, 1994 TAG: 9410250088
SECTION: VIRGINIA BEACH BEACON PAGE: 03 EDITION: FINAL
LENGTH: Medium: 66 lines
John Martin doesn't watch the NFL on television. He doesn't have to. He's at a game - somewhere - every weekend watching the Redskins, the Cowboys, the Eagles . . .
It's mixing business and pleasure, says Martin, a Norfolk native, Granby High grad and owner of Great Atlantic Travel and Tour, known especially for its trips to sporting events.
In the fall, it's football and he shuttles thousands of fans back and forth to stadiums everywhere. ``You end up being a tremendous NFL fan,'' he says.
Right now he's also busy planning for the future. People are very interested in the Carolina Panthers, coming in '95, and the Olympics, coming to Atlanta in '96.
They're also interested in the near future. He's already filled 26 buses for the Dallas/Philadelphia game in December.
Full name: John Pershing Martin Jr.
Hometown: Norfolk
What brought you to the Beach? The inception of Great Atlantic Travel and Tour in 1981.
Birthdate: July 12, 1944.
Occupation: Owner, Great Atlantic Travel & Tour.
Marital status: Happily married to my best friend, Jan.
Children: Michelle, 25; Jonathan, 10; Zachary, 3.
What is your idea of a perfect day off? Fishing and hunting (for something to do).
Last smart thing you did: Invested heavily in World Cup Soccer '94.
Last dumb thing you did: Attempted small home repair task. I'm no Bob Vila.
Favorite meal: Anything Italian and all seafood.
Favorite movies: ``Planes, Trains & Automobiles'' - definitely an education film for anyone in the travel business.
Favorite song: Monday night football song by Hank Williams Jr. - especially when I have 600 to 800 clients in the stands.
Last book read: Real workaholics don't have time to read books.
Hobbies: Real workaholics don't have hobbies. However, I do work out regularly at Wareings and snow ski out West when time permits.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I wouldn't be so hot-headed.
If you could change one thing about your spouse, what would it be? Not a thing. She is perfect.
Secret vice: Late night ice cream.
Favorite restaurant: Five 01 City Grill, Aldo's, Il Giardino, Rudees, Mahi-Mahs.
Your favorite night on the town: Dinner and socializing at the above restaurants.
Favorite TV shows: ``David Letterman'' and any NFL game.
Favorite sport: NFL and World Cup Soccer.
Last vacation: Acapulco, Mexico.
Pets: A pet could not survive with my 3-year-old.
Worst job: Loading trailers for a trucking company.
Of what achievements are you most proud? My family and the success of my business - as I did it my way.
What would you like on your epitaph? This trip is over. No ticket required. ILLUSTRATION: Staff photo by DAVID B. HOLLINGSWORTH
by CNB