By Edward M. Bury, APR, MA (aka The PRDude)
Anniversaries can be more than just a date on the calendar. They can provide a reference point for not just what has transpired over a period of time, but what may lie in the future.
What follows are thoughts and images on two 25-year anniversaries celebrated this month — both quite different, both notable.
First, let’s shine the silver anniversary spotlight on The Grossman Group, an outstanding independent communications firm based in Chicago that concentrates its services on internal communications. This video offers insight into the firm, which was founded by David Grossman, Fellow PRSA, APR, ABC, a leading national figure in public relations and author of books and blogs designed to guide business leaders on the value of incorporating viable and strategic communication practices.
From a full disclosure perspective, I have known Mr. Grossman for some two decades, and both of us served on the Universal Accreditation Board. Without question, he is an acknowledged leader in the profession today.
Below are two images I took from the Grossman Group’s 25th anniversary reception May 21 held in the agency’s way-cool offices housed in a dazzlingly remodeled former manufacturing building in Chicago’s vibrant and ever-evolving Fulton Market neighborhood. I enjoyed meeting other Grossman Group team members, reconnecting with friends from PRSA Chicago, and savoring some truly delicious hors ‘d oeuvres.
Feeling a bit fatigued (perhaps my condition was enhanced by the excellent champagne served?), I left the reception early and did not hear all of Mr. Grossman’s comments to those assembled. I’m confident he delivered a compelling presentation on the role his firm has made to advance ethical communications over the past 25 years, and what’s ahead in the next quarter century.
It’s pretty clear from this “monument” in the Grossman Group office that there’s a reason to celebrate.
An “aerial” view of those assembled during the celebration as Mr. Grossman addressed those who joined the reception.
Now, let me focus on the second “anniversary story” of this post, one that certainly is much more personal. In May of 2000, Susan and I closed on the vintage two-flat home shown below. We’ve been told the architectural style is American Craftsman, and for decades prior to our ownership the stucco structure was known as The Peterson home.
We believe the home was built in 1907, when the Avondale neighborhood of Chicago emerged as a stable, middle-class community just north of the more famous and affluent Logan Square. With its corner location, full-length front porch, bay windows, and white trim, the home certainly stands out on our block and retains its original character. But as noted in this 2021 post, a detached structure on the property had to be replaced.
Needed repairs and upgrades have been made over the years — new roof, gutters, windows, boiler, appliances, and more — to keep this major investment sound, comfortable, and eventually salable at a significant profit. But until then, we maintain that this modest structure simply is our home — as well as the residence of our cats and a roster of (mostly) wonderful tenants who occupy the second-floor rental apartment.
What do I find most enjoyable about our home? Well, we have a vintage clawfoot tub that provides an ideal venue for a bath. However, as detailed in this 2018 post, I spend many enjoyable hours outside.
Let me conclude with this thought: Reaching a significant time-focused accomplishment indicates that in most cases life delivers ups and downs, delivers both positive and negative memories and events. I would ascertain that Mr. Grossman and his team have faced challenges over the years. Susan and I certainly have had to address issues related to our home.
Yet, these were met, and we charge ahead, undaunted.
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