Common Sense Isn’t That Common Anymore
Special thanks to Copywriter Derek Fair who did an excellent job filling in last week writing the Weekly Report while I was on jury duty. He got lots of great feedback from readers, including me, once I finally was able to access an electronic device. If you recall, I served jury duty last week and citizens who serve on juries in the Commonwealth are prohibited from possessing a cell phone, a laptop, an Apple Watch, or any other electronic device. At least they had magazines in the jury room. It’s been a long time since I read Style Weekly. (I’d forgotten how good it was.)
Despite being called into three different jury rooms, I was “dismissed” from all three potential cases. On two occasions, I was the first name called. In another courtroom, I was the second named whacked. I was never asked a single question. I was rejected based solely on my appearance. My guess is that defense attorneys don’t like old dudes who wear custom-made suits.
Seven hours of waiting, reading, and walking in and out of courtrooms. One court sat in recess for 90 minutes, while the judge took a conference call. This wouldn’t have been so bad if it was any other time than lunch hour, but because we were to remain in the jury room, we couldn’t eat or drink anything. And the lawyers, sheesh. I heard some of the dumbest questions I’ve ever heard in my life.
“So let me get this straight. You say you were injured in an accident last month?,” asked the attorney in a crumpled JCPenney suit. “Yes,” said potential juror #23. “And when was that?,” he asked. “Last month.”
I guess “common sense” isn’t that common anymore.
Monday, January 13 – Hungry To Learn
Monday morning, we enjoyed Panera bagels as Communications Manager Kent Brockwell held his first Breakfast & Brain Meeting to share 2019 VA1 Tourism Summit insights. During the three days of hyper-focused workshops, seminars, and group work a few weeks ago, Kent gathered new tips and tricks on how to market to mothers, utilize print and radio, put customers reviews front and center. As you can tell by the look on my face, I was a little excited to get started.
Tuesday, January 14 – Taking Care Of Business
Tuesday morning, Director of Account Services Kaitlin Thomas and I traveled to Vera’s Fine Jewelers to discuss 2020 plans. It was good to see Mike and Vera and get a head start on marketing plans for the 25th Anniversary year. It’s been a great partnership and we are proud to tell everyone that we have been their agency for the last 14 of those 25 years. Don’t forget, Valentine’s Day is coming up soon and if you’re looking for something better than candy or flowers, join their community on Facebook to get some great gift ideas.
Wednesday, January 15 – New Year, Same Us
On Wednesday, we had our 2020 New Year’s Mixer at Morton’s Steakhouse. Our first one of the year was a huge success and the Madison+Main-iacs had a great time mixing and mingling with friends, clients, and partners in the biz. I know you’re sad you missed it. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, so you can be invited to the next one we are likely throwing in April.
Thursday, January 16 – From Books To Cases
Kent “#DustyBooksMatter” Brockwell headed south on Thursday morning to dig through the stacks at Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia’s research library. If you didn’t know, Lucy Corr in Chesterfield County is celebrating its 50th year of service this year and we are helping them with their big celebration. Big thanks to librarian Liess van der Linden-Brusse for helping us take a stroll through history and learn a little more about Miss Lucy.
Also on Thursday, our client CowanGates’ new website went live! Give it a glance, especially if you’re in need of the best legal representation in Richmond. Yes, they are a client of mine and yes I am a client of theirs. Check out the new website and if you have any thoughts, comments, or suggestions — send them to me here.
Friday, January 17 – Your Vote Counts
Several of our clients and partners are in the runnings for Virginia Living Magazine’s “Best of Virginia Readers’ Survey” awards. We would love if you’d take a second to help them win. To make voting even easier, we’ve included our “suggested selections” from the Top 20 lists and a link for you to voice your vote.
- Favorite Distillery: A. Smith Bowman Distillery, Fredericksburg
- Annual Charity Event: VCU Massey Cancer Center Massey on the River
- Veterinary Hospital: Sycamore Veterinary Hospital, Midlothian VA
Just as a reminder, there’s still time to cast your vote for our friend Roger Cassem from HCB2 (Hitting Cancer Below The Belt) to make it into the Packers Fan Hall of Fame. Check out his story on WTVR Channel 6 and be sure to help him win. Hopefully, his Packers can pull off another win this Sunday against the 49ers. #GoPackGo
A Few of Our Favorite Events
Virginia Council of CEOs Quarterly Luncheon
422 Westhampton Way | Richmond, VA
January 22, 2020 | 12 – 1:30 p.m.
Virginia’s unemployment rate (2.6%) is the second-lowest since 1969. The single biggest issue for most small businesses is workforce. The companies that do succeed in finding talent are doing it in creative and systematic ways. Come out and get tips from myself, Jane Holmes (RTS Labs), Mark Smith (Midas of Richmond), and Carrie Todd (Entercom Media) on how to stay ahead in the war for talent. The luncheon is free for members and sponsors, but has a fee of $95 for guests. Register today!
Virginia Spirits Roadshow: A. Smith Bowman Distillery
1 Bowman Drive | Fredericksburg, VA
February 8, 2019 | 12 – 5 p.m.
Come join us for the Virginia Craft Spirits Roadshow at A. Smith Bowman Distillery! Tickets will include all samples of artisan spirits as well as craft cocktails from numerous Virginia distilleries; while guests can mix, mingle, and engage with Virginia distillers firsthand! Purchase any bottles you enjoy to take home — they’ll even store them at their concierge station while you enjoy the event. Save money by purchasing your tickets at the advanced promo prices vs. the day of: $20 for one general admission, or $35 for two general admission tickets.
Got an upcoming event you want to share? Can we come? Send us the deets!
“What is common sense isn’t common practice.”
— Stephen Covey