The Economic Development Corporation has its offices at 301 East Pine Street which is the same building that Broadway Across America has it’s offices. The ground floor lobby was packed and I walked past every one out the back doors where Pine street had been blocked off for the event. I walked around searching for Terry, who had invited me. I was distinctly under dressed in my blue jeans and polo shirt. I was in a crowd of black suits. I decided this bull was a good focal point so I texted Terry and let her know I would be sketching the bull. I had just started the sketch when a police officer approached me from behind. He said, “Are you an invited guest?” I told him, “Yes.” The then told me, “You will have to go back to the lobby where they will check your name off the list and give you a wrist band.” Just then Terry walked up and explained that I was with her. She offered to get the wrist band while I continued to work.
I was introduced to several people who said they would like to help me get more exposure for the work I am doing. When I was introduced to one member of the EDC she knew me since I had sketched a flash mob event at Lake Eola and she had been there. Such a small world. We laughed about the insane events of that day. When I finally got a pulled pork sandwich everyone else had already eaten so there was no wait. All of the BBQ joints in town were here and it was a great opportunity to taste and compare. Suddenly it began to pour. Everyone huddled under the huge tent and the din of conversations grew loud. I was ready to try a second sandwich when I realized all the food tents were isolated away from the big tent. I would have to make a run for it. I decided it wasn’t worth getting soaked to get another bite to eat. Cupcakes on the other hand were in the main tent so I tried a couple.
A colleague of Terry’s sat at our table and the two of them counted business cards. They talked about business and its inherent back stabbing. Then the rain died down to a drizzle. He offered us a ride back to Terry’s car. Terry and I drove off to a surprise birthday party at Redlight Redlight.