The west loop is marked by quiet and clean streets, new and renovated 3-5 story condominiums, lofts and offices - most of them converted from the warehouses and fresh food markets that once dominated this part of the city. People walking with their kids, or with their dogs. The scene looks like the architectural renderings you see for new real estate developments.

Colorful vertical banners mark the parking lots and guide the way to the building’s front entrance. Two steps into the lobby, and the scene looked like the opening of an independent film screening, art exhibition, or album listening party.

There was a bustling coffee stand where young professionals and college students were gathered and talking in small groups. Nearby, more people were congregated and socializing, waiting for the auditorium doors to be opened.

What was clear in my first few minutes in this building, was that this space had been carefully and meticulously designed for this crowd. And the people assembled in here this morning looked like they knew they were in a space that had been designed particularly for who they were, what they liked, and how they lived.

As the seven-person band led the audience in song and the house lights were dimmed, gentle clouds began to stream from a fog machine behind the front stage. Overhead, track lightning and stage lightning complete the concert-like atmosphere.

The journey continues on Racine Avenue and Adams.

Intro Theme Music: Victory Lap by QSTN ft. Mecca:83
Background Music: www.bensound.com/

Pick up your copy of the companion book at https://godinchicago.com/

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