At City Works, we’re all about making someone’s day better.

Today, we’re going behind the scenes with two of the friendly servers that make it all happen, Jim Shedd and Susan Blackburn. They each bring something special to the table, pun intended, so let’s get to know them a little better.

Meet Jim Shedd:

Where are you from?
Inverness, Illinois

What do you enjoy about your job?
I love working at City Works because of the incredible team atmosphere. Coming from an HR background, I’ve always valued the idea of ‘having each other’s backs,’ and that’s exactly what we have here. Whether it’s front or back of the house, everyone is supportive and genuinely enjoys working together.

What do you do when you are not at work?
When I’m not at City Works, I’m working as a children’s theater educator and director. I also direct productions with adults. My background is in education, and I’m passionate about mentoring young adults and guiding them creatively. Our next musical is Les Misérables in January at the Al Larson Prairie Center For The Arts, so if you’re in the area, I’d love to get you some tickets!

Current favorite drink?
Well, it’s fall so Old Fashioneds, ciders and brown ales. I loved tasting our seasonal Spiced Pear Spritz too. Yum!

What is something that people probably don’t know about you?
Oh man, I’m a Pisces so I share it all. FUN FACT: In the game Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon, I’m one degree away. I acted alongside him in the film Stir of Echoes when I was a kid.

Favorite TV/Movie Quote?
Anything Simpsons or The Office. I like to walk around when I’m in a good mood at City Works and shout “Everything’s coming up Milhouse!”

 

What’s your favorite item on the City Works menu?
The Smokehouse Burger. I think it’s so flavorful. My buddy John in the kitchen makes the best burgers.

If you could only have one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Simple answer: sushi. Last meal answer: escargot, Caesar salad, beef Wellington, and my homemade checkerboard cake for dessert.

Share a moment of personal triumph.
Over the past few years, I’ve been focused on improving my physical and mental health. I truly believe in the importance of checking in with yourself and doing the inner work. It’s been a journey, but it’s brought me a lot of peace. I’m proud to say I’ve learned to love and appreciate myself in the process. (Classic Pisces, I know. I’m an open book! LOL)

What has been your most memorable experience at Bottleneck Management so far?
I organized a for-fun March Madness bracket for the team so while we served and watched the games we could talk smack to each other. I got a lot of us involved and our 1st and 2nd place winners had never watched a game of college basketball in their life.

What’s your go-to karaoke song?
Semi-Charmed Life by Third Eye Blind. You gotta pick a song that gets the whole bar singing!

If you had a superpower, what would it be?
To touch someone with my hand when they’re sad or sick and make them instantly feel better.

What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Embrace your failures and look at it as learning.

What’s your favorite thing about your city?
Chicago has the best food in America. Don’t believe me? Watch The Bear.

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Meet Susan Blackburn:

Where are you from?
Atlanta, Georgia

What do you enjoy about your job?
Everything! I love the pace, action and interaction with my guests and coworkers. It’s fun, social and I love my coworkers, managers and customers!

What do you do when you are not at work?
Relax, watch TV, hang out with my cat and cook dinner.

Current favorite drink?
Miller Lite and Diet Coke or are you talking bout work drinks? Golden Honey Margarita is the best seller! (I’ve never had one)

What is something that people probably don’t know about you?
That’s a tough one. My life is an open book. They know EVERYTHING about me!

Favorite TV/Movie Quote?
From the original Terminator, ”Hey buddy you gotta dead cat in there?…”

 

 

What’s your favorite item on the City Works menu?
Cheddar Burger! It is the best burger I’ve had anywhere, and I’ve had three bad ones in other restaurants. The Cuban Sandwich is a close second.

If you could only have one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Beef stroganoff. I make a killer stroganoff. Or cheese and onion enchiladas, or steak and baked taters!

Share a moment of personal triumph.
Running a 10K race (6.2 miles) and finishing in 45 minutes!

What has been your most memorable experience at Bottleneck Management so far?
Bartending the day after Christmas which was a Holiday. Crazy busy!

What’s your go-to karaoke song?
Either Madonna or Manic Monday by the Bangles.

If you had a superpower, what would it be?
Magic like Bewitched. Then my house might be cleaner!

What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Get out of this business?? Just kidding. Stop talking so much but I’m not built that way!

What’s your favorite thing about your city?
Living in the suburbs. Never go downtown. Sure not the weather. I still love my life here!

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Jim and Susan are just a glimpse of the incredible team at City Works. Next time you’re there, say hello!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for mouth-watering food shots and a behind-the-scenes peek at the team.