Today’s Lesson In Chicago
The 10 AM meeting was scheduled in Chicago. I am not comfortable in a congested urban space, but will do what is necessary for the good of the company. The traffic gods were favorable and our departure time of 9AM allowed just enough time to exit off of I94 at Fullerton. We found a free parking spot for the vehicle on a residential street. Driving, and the search for parking in the city often feels as if I am in a Blade Runner movie. Bumper to bumper traffic, driving by animal instinct, paying dearly to park in a city managed garage–that is how it usually is. All the while the clock is ticking. Not enough time to be late.
Our meeting with the principals of a partner company could not have gone better. The exchange was free and open. Bottlenecks were described and solutions suggested. Working with another company is similar to a marriage. No relationship prospers without cultivation. Exchange of words, and gestures of good will are the price that one pays up front. The benefit comes afterward. Is not something to be learned as long as ego can be set aside, and the other parties issues are taken at face value?
The host company offered to treat us to lunch afterward. I would never decline this sort of invitation. We walked several blocks to a recently opened Bar B Que restaurant on Western. The menu did not disappoint. And the conversation was as pleasing as the meal.
Passing a number of small independently owned shops as we walked to our lunch destination, mention was made of a Chicago sign ordinance. A vinyl or painted sign is limited to no more than 25% of the area of a store front window,–upon pain of a fine. Apparently inspectors come around and write up a ticket for the shop owner who is found to be in violation. I looked around and it seemed like a target rich environment.
Another feature of life in the big city.
