Posted 3 years ago in Trending
3 MIN READ – Each month, Chicago Loop Alliance highlights a different Street Ambassador who provides enhanced hospitality services, fosters a consistent pedestrian experience, and keeps State Street safe, clean, and beautiful seven days a week. This month, meet Vincent Accurso, Galewood resident and member of Chicago Loop Alliance’s Clean Team.
How long have you worked as a Chicago Loop Ambassador?
Three years.
What’s the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is working with people. I really love helping people, so this job gives us the direct contact with the public, and thereby I am able to provide some great interactions to people who occupy the Loop. I’ve had the chance to meet some amazing people while patrolling. I’ve also learned a lot while engaging in those interactions.
What’s the most challenging part of your job?
The most challenging part of the job is working in all of Chicago’s extreme temperatures. We have some pretty hot, humid days, and we also have some extremely cold days. Although I’m used to the highs and lows, it can be quite a challenge. But with plenty of water, and/or hand-warmers, I typically get through it with no problem.
What’s your favorite thing about State Street?
My favorite thing about State Street is our wonderful Gateway area. It’s located at the very beginning of our special service area, and at my favorite side of State Street: the north side. I always look forward to the maintenance and management of the space as the summer approaches.
What’s your funniest memory from work?
My funniest moment at work was inside a local Starbucks. One winter morning, I was standing in line, getting a hot chocolate. There was a customer standing in front of me making his final purchase, before I was to place my order. Once my order was placed, the cashier told me to have a good day, and that my order was already paid for. I was shocked because I did not pay. I kindly told her that I didn’t pay for the coffee yet. She pointed to a gentleman at the exit, who happened to be the same guy who was in front of me and said, “I know you didn’t pay, but he did.” He looked at me with a smile and said, “I see you almost every morning. Thank you for what you do.” I would have graciously declined his gratitude, but he quickly walked away, and the Starbucks employee continued servicing the long line.
What’s the most common question you get asked?
The most common question I get asked is for directions, specifically the location of Millennium Park. I usually work second shift, so I get a sense that they’re typically tourists asking those questions because most of the city residents know exactly where the Millennium Park is.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love to spend time at home with my wife, watching movies. We have our different tastes in movies, so I bite the bullet with her picks, so she can watch my own personal preference afterward.
How do you feel your work helps make the Loop “Everyone’s Neighborhood?”
Every place and space we clean in the Loop is to make the space accommodating for everyone. When snow falls, and we remove the snow from the curbsides and sidewalk areas, that benefits everyone. This is what makes the Loop a place for everyone, and makes the Loop Everyone’s Neighborhood.
