Inbox

Making Room for More “Century Club” Members

We hear from representatives of 100-year-old sign companies in April’s mailbag.

Published

1 year ago

April 11, 2023

Signs of the Times Staff Signs of the Times April 2023 Issue

More to Celebrate

I read your article about sign companies that had reached 100 years. You missed one of your readers. Us! Seiz Sign Co. was founded in Hot Springs, AR in 1908. Attached is a photo [at right] taken in 1909. Notice how tech we were … the company had a telephone and the number was 921. We enjoyed your article and photos (see ST, March 2023). — David Hamilton, Seiz Sign Co., Hot Springs, AR
The sign company I worked 36 years for in Baltimore [Belsinger Signworks] made it to almost 102 years when it closed two years ago. A great legacy and a great ride. My first real job out of high school! I continue my almost 40-year sign journey with one other coworker of those 36 years at a great, larger sign company nearby. This trade truly gets in your blood, lol! — Norm James, Baltimore

It’s a Lifestyle

[I want to read about] other signshops/people who hang out together and what they do. Some play musical instruments, some do other artwork together, maybe some just drink together. — Louise DiGiacomo, Signs of Art Graphic Design, Philadelphia

Here to Learn

I enjoy the knowledge-based articles each month. Keep up the great work. — Earl Walker, Image360 Tucker, Tucker, GA
What are some “go to” shipping supplies we should have on hand if we want to “up” our level and keep our products safe and professional looking? And who are some cost-effective suppliers for these items? — Anita Morrish, Image360 San Antonio West, San Antonio
Absolutely appreciate this column and the connection and sharing of ideas, information, etc., with other industry professionals! — Derek Atchley, Atchley Graphics, Columbus, OH
How is ChatGPT viewed as a benefit to your firm? — Tim Ward, Sign Solutions, Frederick, MD
Assuming that everyone was affected in some way by 2020 events … I would be curious to know how most companies have chosen to recalibrate their business model, facilities, processes, personnel and supply chain interactions. Is there an overarching solution, or is everyone doing something different to survive? — Keith Davis, KRD Design, Chester Springs, PA

REACH OUT! We always love to hear from you. Send your Inbox letters to us at editor@signsofthetimes.com.

Introducing the Sign Industry Podcast

The Sign Industry Podcast is a platform for every sign person out there — from the old-timers who bent neon and hand-lettered boats to those venturing into new technologies — we want to get their stories out for everyone to hear. Come join us and listen to stories, learn tricks or techniques, and get insights of what’s to come. We are the world’s second oldest profession. The folks who started the world’s oldest profession needed a sign.