A Good Sign For The USA

Since I was a kid, I loved watching tv shows about how things are made. Mr Roger’s was famous for it. He would take his young viewers to all types of places where things would be fabricated. Seeing the finished product is never really enough for the curious mind. There are far too many questions to be answered. For so many of us, the ways the products we use and consume are created remain a mystery. Recently a good friend of the family, Russ Hassman  invited us to his sign making company, National Sign. What I love about his product is the fact that his creations are the icing on the cake of the American dream. When his company produces a sign, it usually represents the hopes and aspirations of someone’s business venture. Like all the corporations that he makes signs for, he too once started with the humble hope for success. When seeing his employees at a company picnic, it came as no surprise as to why this American dream is being realized. His team members are truly invested in the company and in turn, he is truly invested in them. It all makes sense and as I walk through the building noticing there are clues to its success everywhere. The first and immediate observation is its open environment. There seems to be no covert mission here as ideas and action come together in a space designed for open communication. The executive’s drawing board is only an arms length away from where the finished product will come to fruition. The recipe for success is born in a team that seems to respect each other from the top down. The company picnic is in full swing as it celebrates Octoberfest. No matter that it’s June; things here seem to go by the beat of their own drum anyway.  None of the employees even give a crooked stare at the head honcho attired in his party lederhosen. Another sign of the company’s the good nature. Children and friends are welcome to come inside and see bits and pieces of the creative process. It’s a photographer’s playground. Back outside, a staff member brings out his crafted Octoberfest sign and is applauded by his coworkers. The oompah music plays on and co-workers link arms. As the merriment continues, the next generation of American workers plays games. These children will continue the dream. I leave feeling enlightened and encouraged. Today I have learned never to underestimate the magic that happens in unadorned looking industrial parks all around our county. Tiki Taki Tiki Taki, Hoy Hoy Hoy!