I am not a car guy. I know where the gas goes, and that's about it. So I have plenty of experience with other people taking care of my car. I have now had an unbelievably contrasting experience, all within a couple hours and one block on Capitol Drive.
It started when I looked at how dirty my car was. So I went to Jimbo's, where we have been taking cars for dozens of years.
I paid the $18 or so and left after my car was done. While driving, I noticed the back window smeared and the dashboard unwiped. Normally I'd just do it myself, but not this time. I turned around and told the lady about it.
After about five minutes this big guy, pants dragging on the ground, came walking out slower than molasses and never said a word. He went to the back and wiped the window with obvious lackluster enthusiasm. Then he leaned into the car and gave the dash a couple of quick wipes. Then he turned and left. Didn't say a word. Not "sorry." Not " is that OK?" Nothing.
So I left.
Then I went to Lindems Auto Repair, across the street and one block west of Jimbo's.
I had a list of things I wanted done. I wasn't sure about the list, but it was based on things other people had told me. Like the guy where I get my oil changed had tried to sell me a transmission oil change. I figured I'd have Lindems do it.
Well these people gave me a ride home and went to work. They called a few hours later, telling me things were done, how much it cost and announced they'd pick me up in five minutes.
I got back to the shop and Ark, the owner, and his wife, Anna, explained all the costs. There was no charge for the transmission fluid. Ark said the fluid was clear and unless I was a leadfoot, the fluid should never need to be changed.
When was the last time some repair guy told me I didn't need something he could have charged me for? I can't remember it ever happening.
One place was rude and officious and the other place was cooperative and courteous and made sure that I understood everything that had happened. One has lost my business forever, the other has become my forever auto repair place.
Nothing like great customer service.
With a history in Milwaukee stretching back decades, Dave tries to bring a unique perspective to his writing, whether it's sports, politics, theater or any other issue.
He's seen Milwaukee grow, suffer pangs of growth, strive for success and has been involved in many efforts to both shape and re-shape the city. He's a happy man, now that he's quit playing golf, and enjoys music, his children and grandchildren and the myriad of sports in this state. He loves great food and hates bullies and people who think they are smarter than everyone else.
This whole Internet thing continues to baffle him, but he's willing to play the game as long as OnMilwaukee.com keeps lending him a helping hand. He is constantly amazed that just a few dedicated people can provide so much news and information to a hungry public.
Despite some opinions to the contrary, Dave likes most stuff. But he is a skeptic who constantly wonders about the world around him. So many questions, so few answers.
