This past Friday, we celebrated as our esteemed Innkeeper of 22 years, Paul Wagoner, passed the torch to Austin Francalancia. Paul will be retiring after more than two decades of managing the Grant Street Inn. We did not yet know how lucky we were that fateful day in 2004 when we met Paul. Originally thought of as management potential for our Kirkwood apartments, he ended up a resident at the The Kirkwood and manager at Grant Street. Previously, Paul had worked at the Trilogy Gallery in Nashville, Indiana. He also served in the Navy, attended the U.S. Naval Electronics School, and graduated from Purdue University (though we won’t be holding that last one against him).
Paul has become synonymous with life at the Inn; he is a favorite of many guests and a fountain of knowledge when it comes to all things related to Bloomington’s beloved and iconic boutique hotel. That’s why we have full faith in his hearty endorsement of Austin Francalancia, who is set to take charge as our new Innkeeper at the end of July. Austin is an IU alum with a robust background in communications, production, and community enrichment. Austin is a self-proclaimed “Bloomerang,” having returned to Bloomington after moving away post-graduation. His love for the town is one of the many qualities that make him a good fit.
Though it saddens us greatly to have to say goodbye to Paul Wagoner, we are grateful for all the wonderful years of service he has given us, and we wish him and husband Dennis Ramsey many years of travel and relaxation. Here’s to long histories and future endeavors!
