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During Turbulent Times, ATG and its Members Demonstrate Resilience through Collaboration 

Reflections from a Busy Guy in an Empty City

The last five months have been among the most challenging we have experienced in our lifetimes: The pandemic’s impact on public health has been heretofore unimaginable, as has been the impact on the US and global economies. Next came the senseless murder of George Floyd, a brutal attack that many view as emblematic of the racism that still permeates our culture. In the months since, we have seen peaceful protests as well as, sadly, acts of violence and destruction such as those we recently experienced in Chicago. And finally, the political divide that seems to widen every day. For some, it is increasingly difficult to disagree without becoming disagreeable.

Like many of you, I have kids at home trying to navigate myriad issues that have upended their lives: Will I be going back to school or continuing remote learning? Will I be able to reconnect with my friends or will I continue to be isolated? How can I best manage relationships with my siblings and parents in close quarters day after day? What does my future look like? As parents, what kind of legacy are we leaving for our generation and the generation that follows?

And like you, I am trying to manage not only the logistical but also the emotional issues that come with the pandemic. I dearly miss the constant personal interactions that have always energized my professional life. I miss seeing ATG staff and member-agents in our offices. I miss interacting with our members at the events that have come to define the collegiality that makes ATG unique.

Most days, I am one of just a few people in the Chicago office and even in the Loop. Some days, I feel like I have entered a lost civilization. I half expect to see tumbleweeds blowing down Wacker Drive. Or Arnold Schwarzenegger advancing on LaSalle Street as The Terminator. Working from home is a challenge. For those who live alone it is lonely. For those who have big families it is crowded and distracting. And for all of us, whether in the practice of law or in the business of serving the profession, many days present anxiety-producing experiences. How do we best serve customers and clients? How do we stay connected, but safe? Regardless of your view of the need to wear facemasks and maintain physical distance, there are practical landmines to avoid in all circumstances. Plus, economic uncertainty and health concerns loom.

But despite the challenges there is much to appreciate. On a personal level, for many of us, these past several months have been a time to connect more deeply with loved ones. To reach out to friends and family who need a helping hand or a kind word. And professionally there is much to appreciate. From the outset of the pandemic I have marveled at the leadership and teamwork evident at so many levels at ATG. I am awed by the work I see from senior leaders, managers, and most especially our front-line employees who serve customers and fellow employees each day. I am similarly filled with admiration at the innovative and dedicated manner ATG members have jumped into the breach to ensure that clients, embarked upon the largest financial transaction of their lives, can feel comfort in having a trusted advisor at their side as they navigate these challenging circumstances.

The economic downturn brought on by the pandemic is a reality that cannot be ignored. Even still, ATG order volume has rebounded, at least temporarily. It’s a reflection of pent-up demand, low interest rates, and of course the elusive trait that best defines the American experience: Optimism.

Despite the challenges there are many reasons to remain optimistic about the future of ATG. We continue to retool to deliver exceptional service while maintaining safe conditions for our members, employees, and other stakeholders.

I wish you all the best health and happiness as we continue to collaborate to successfully navigate these uncharted waters. I look forward to the day when we can see each other face to face and celebrate the great company we built together.

Very truly yours,

Peter J. Birnbaum
ATG President and Chief Executive Officer

[Last update: 8-11-20]

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