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Eat samples.. buy nothing.. is that bad/rude/stealing?
Sometimes, I go to Whole Foods thinking I want a particular product and then I don't end up buying it (it's out OR more often: I realize that it is going to cost $5 for a box of cereal...) but in the process of roaming the store, I try their samples.
This kind of happens every couple of times I go there... so maybe once a week I end up making purchases, but once a week, I leave without buying what I was looking for (and driving to a more affordable location).
What do you think--especially if I do frequent there (weekly, if not bi-weekly)--is it rude to sample without making a purchase?
(I will say it is really helpful to sample because it is so expensive, so I can decide if it is worth the $7.99 for a loaf of cinnamon bread)
Not at all GraceW. I think of the samples as the marketers planting seeds. I guess I have gardening on my mind on this cold soggy January night. Costco has the right idea. They are generous with their samples and very often I end up buying what I sampled another time. And/or recommending the item to a friend.
I think the problem with Whole Paycheck and some other supermarkets I go to once in awhile is all the employees standing around staring at you as you take a sample. In my experiences the gazes of these bored employees are not friendly. There was a small but upscale market I used to go to, (they since went belly up), where I used to shop almost daily for their wonderful dinner specials early in the evening. One night a week I would stop there shortly before they closed after a looong commute to see if they had any leftover specials. On the nights they didn't i would take a sample from the bakery, use the bathroom and leave. Shortly before they went out of business I realized the bakery workers were whispering and giving me the stink eye. I happened to be in the store one morning only an hour after they had told their employees they were going out of business. The owner was expressing his regrets to a customer and glared at me as I walked by. They never realized how much I spent there on other trips and begrudged me a small square of coffee cake I guess.
My local TJ's does a nice job of watching the samples without making people feel they shouldn't take one. But I really can't seem to leave TJ's without buying something. Or many things.0
depends on the store. you can see it in the workers' eyes. the tired desperation.
I've taken all the samples i could eat, after walking through busted glass to get to a Whole foods. Then again, I was making less than minimum wage... "servin' my country" eh?
Costco--you've already paid for the samples.
Whole Foods--they're rich.
small timers are a different story -- only sample if you have 50/50 of buying or more.0
re: Chowrin
How do you know if you want to buy the food being sampled without sampling it? So often I've sampled food at stores and found it completely not to my liking. I wouldn't have know that without trying it first. Other times I discover that I really do like what they're sampling and I happily buy it. That's the point of sampling.
When I worked in that business, my mantra was just let me get a sample into your hands. The food will speak for itself. If you like it, I just created a new customer. If you don't like it, well no harm done. I felt it was a relatively cheap form of marketing.
Now I will admit, I no longer take cooked food samples at TJ's. I've never yet had one I've liked so I assume I'm wasting time and food but taking the sample.0
re: rockycat
You know the samples that you'll never buy: the vitamin water (people pay money for what?)
You know the samples that you're on the edge about: "real" diet coke (not new coke)
Often enough, I'm poor enough that even something I like, may take me years to buy it. Which isn't good for the small-time operator....0
Timely topic for me. This past week I found myself in a shopping plaza that is no longer geographically convenient to me and walked into a Whole Foods that I used to frequent regularly. I wasn't intending to buy anything, but I had a few samples of cheese and crackers and decided it would be poor form to just walk out, so I bought some bananas, which we did need (just not at their prices).
As for Costco, they have great samples, but I could never see going into my Costco without intending to buy anything so it's never an issue for me there. I'm sure there are people who go in there at noon just for samples, since you could certainly make a meal out of them (which I have done, but only in the course of my regular $100+ weekly shopping).
At Trader Joe's, other than the free coffee samples, the only other samples I usually get are labor intensive, served by a TJ employee who cooks, apportions ,and plates them, and also tells you about them in a generally helpful and friendly manner. I think I would take huge stones to just walk out after eating that.0
Samples are part of doing business and are factored into the cost/price ratio of any established store. I shop at Whole Foods and TJ's and look forward to tasting something new when I go. If it's something I like or need, then I'll probably buy it, if it's a good price. If the store offers something free, they have already written it off as an expenditure and will make it up somewhere. Small mom and pop stores are different. But you shop there for different reasons too.0
I think its fine as long as you are not "piggy" about grabbing samples-as I sometimes see at Stew Leonards.
Eat samples.. buy nothing.. is that bad/rude/stealing?
I have read about people who admit to belonging to Wholesale Clubs, like Costco, and going there on their lunch hour, solely for the purpose to eat the free samples for their meal.....bad, yes.....rude, yes....stealing, no.
I would further add....pathetic, yes0
re: fourunder
here is an interesting article on "Seniors going to lunch" at.....COSTCO. I think this is a little extreme; who wants to eat all that overly processed stuff anyway?
re: ospreycove
I know you have spent time in Bergen, although I do not know how long it has been since you have been in the area......In Hackensack, across from the courthouse, they opened a Costco Warehouse directly across from it about 15 years ago....since it is the closest one to my residence, I shop there most often and have gotten to know many employees over that time. The running joke is that's where all the Courthouse staff and lawyers come for the free food at lunchtime. Unbelievable.0
re: fourunder
four......Been many years now I am inS.W. Florida and the Seniors are very evident at lunchtime in our COSTCO.....LOL0
re: ospreycove
they are even worse in South Fl!!0
re: fourunder
hey, lawyers get munchies too!
... what's fun is the millionaires kibbitzing about the optimal time for sample-scooping at Costco. [also, the optimal time for purchases.] They're millionaires -- they Optimize!0
If you take one of something you think looks or sounds good, but it's not all you thought it would be, then it's perfectly good form to walk away..you don't like it; it would be loopy to spend money on something you don't like.
If you *do* like it, don't keep cruising back past the table to snag more...if you like it enough to circle back for seconds, you should buy it.
Walking through the store just to fill up on samples is bad form.
If you don't want to buy something at that moment, why on earth would it be "rude"? Unless you think you're purposely trying to get over on someone, in which case that's always rude.0
Quite often the manufacturer/vendor/broker is supplying/crediting the retailer for the cost of the product demoed/sampled/given away. Often times even the labor cost of the demo person is also provided. This is a form of advertising!!...They WANT you to try the product....They KNOW everyone is not going to buy! They are advertising their product!! ~~~ It is neither bad, nor rude to accept a sample that is being OFFERED to you. ~~ Stealing???? Ridiculous!!!0
I would equate it to a non-customer using a restroom. Conveniences (and extras) are there for actual customers.0
re: ediblover
You mean I should never go into a hotel restroom when I am in the city if I am not a guest staying in that hotel? Then why would they have public restrooms? Presumably their guests all have their own restrooms in their own rooms.0
re: PeterL
For the guests of the guests? Or if they're in the lobby and don't want to return to their room? It's not cheap to stock toilet paper, hand towels, sanitizer soap and so on. I can see in an emergency, but not as a regular habit. To me, "public" means the taxpayers are funding your rest.0
re: coll
As a former outside salesman, I was always looking for a good place to "take care of business." The finest in my sales territory was the Hotel Galvez in Galveston, always spotless. There , I gave them some free pub. I was there once a fortnight, and returned in the evening for the excellent happy hour and view of the Gulf. If I had to stop at a fast food place for the restrooms, I always bought an iced tea, not wanting to be a freeloader. Now, at my local HEB grocery, they have an in store chef doing demos, employeeed by the store. I sometimes buy and some not, to them, it seems more about selling the saces and wine that go along with the meat preperations. If I like it I buy it.0
re: James Cristinian
Well as an outside salesman myself, I have my favorite spots and know what you mean. Mostly use my customers facilities (and I have preferences there), but also libraries, public buildings, McDonalds or KMart etc (one of my first trainings included this info, and not to ever use gas stations ;-), anyway places you can run in and out quickly. I depend on the kindness of strangers! and try to be invisible when I do so. Hey I can always grab an egg cream or a cup of coffee to cover the cost.
You know there are a lot of business costs that people don't consider, and we're covering a few of them here.0
re: James Cristinian
Totally apropos of absolutly nothing, doesn't HEB rock?! Wish I could go more often without the 8 yo in tow so I could hang out at the cooking kisok and check out more of the recipes and browse the cool stuff.
If there weren't cheese samples I'd never buy a lot of new cheeses. I'm not going to risk 10$ on a cheese I end up hating. Although it's not likely that the word hate and cheese would ever come out of my mouth at the same time. Ok, well, perhaps "I hate that cheese is so expensive." :)0
re: ediblover
I see this one as a "catch more flies with honey" type situation. Honestly, I can think of many times (although not always) I've popped in somewhere out of necessity, and on my way out, maybe picked something up, even if it's a soft drink, because I felt I should.
Being bullied into it, is another thing. Once, however, in the middle of nowhere, I had to go into this little ice cream place where the owner flat out refused to let me anywhere near the bathroom until I'd coughed up the money to buy one ridiculously over-priced (and not worth it) ice cream, before I even looked around the place. We were scrambling through purses and coin catchers while I danced, pretty much. Had I not been in pain, I would have walked out.
A little hospitality goes a long way, and guess which place is likely to have people turn heel before actually becoming a customer. Unless people are known to hang out in your bathrooms conducting illegal activities, I do not see the deal here. And I don't see a bathroom as an "extra", if you are allowed to access the rest of the building freely.0
The only time I've experienced an odd reaction to trying the samples but not buying was at Wegman's. A store I only visit once in a while but truly enjoy.
Set up in the produce dept (which was odd) was a display offering thinly sliced tenderloin of beef cooked in a mild sauce. served on a wheat cracker with some sort of spicy dip. It was the beef they were promoting. I had no plans to buy the beef but I was hungry. When I didn't pick up a package of the tenderloin from the display case situated beside the sample the "sales person" made a remark. Something like "we aren't offering these samples just so you can have a quick lunch lady!" In the fist 3 seconds my brain just froze but then I smiled and thanked him for his hospitality and then shared his sharp remark with the meat dept. a few moments later while visiting the butcher. I wasn't turned off to the entire store for the experience but I wasn't leaving without reporting the kind of service representation they were offering that day. Samples are meant to encourage sales, but that doesn't mean immediate sales (imho).0
re: HillJ
Now, that was rude. The sales person, I mean.0
re: HillJ
I would have laughed (at the sarcasm).0
re: ediblover
I laughed later...0
re: HillJ
This happened at Wegman's? You could have had that guy fired.0
re: Bob W
Yep, Wegman's and I was surprised as well. I wasn't looking to get anybody fired just taking my store experience to the butcher was enough QC for me.0
re: HillJ
Seriously, what if you didn't like the food? Are you supposed to buy it anyway?0
re: coney with everything
coney, does a salesperson EVER hold that perspective? Customers do...but people charged with selling can't. Doesn't mean the interaction should be respectful. I would have preferred HUMOR..had the salesperson teased me I would have blown it off. Rudeness doesn't fly.0
re: HillJ
perhaps they should have shot you with a tracking device to ensure you didn't leave the store without buying, lol.
Someone's a liiitttttlllle too invested in their samples.0
In this particular case I'm going to say no. You are offered the samples, and then decide if you want to buy or not. It's a grocery store not a restaurant.
intention may be everything here as well. I'd say it's a little classless to go with the intention of eating food for free but if you really are interested and then decide not to buy it based on cost, or calorie / nutritional info I see nothing wrong with that choice.
That said I knew a girl who worked at an ice cream / yogurt shop and there were some repeat offenders that would come in only to ask for several samples and then leave without buy. That is rude not stealing since samples are free but that is rude.0
re: Sandwich_Sister
there's an ice cream parlour in the d.c. area that limits you to two free samples and then, after that, if you pay a dollar you can taste up to ten more samples. it's a pretty good system.0
re: monpetitescargot
oh thats a good system. My friend worked at a sherman oaks cali place where aspiring models and actors would come in. and taste around 5 to 12 samples and then leave without buying anything.0
re: Sandwich_Sister
re: monpetitescargot
Kind of like wine tasting at many of the Napa wineries.0
re: PeterL
I haven't seen a free tasting in Napa in a decade!0
re: Sandwich_Sister
I'll second that on serial offenders. If I were the manager, I might refuse them samples, saying, "you come in frequently, but do not purchase, so you cannot sample anymore". What they are doing is just plain rude. But, there are shameless people in this world.0
Had a friend whose Ex would pick up the girls for visitation and take them to Costco immediately. The samples (not ever the $1.50 hot dog and beverage) were lunch. Every Saturday. Every Sunday, just before bringing them home.
That, to me, was stealing, tacky rude and pathetic. No wonder she didn't get custody.0
I worked in the food court in college, and the raiding of the condiment counter got so bad that we literally removed it, and handed them out only after receiving payment. This was only after we watched a fraternity send in pledges to "restock the fridge", ie-take back BAGS of packets.
Now, my side job is at Williams Sonoma, and we regularly have samples. It should be noted that just taking one or two of something is not a problem; even if you have no intention of buying it. It's free! We want you to eat it! The people who bring their kids, or who don't and just GRAZE....them we take issue with. That's not sampling. That's just rude. Ditto to employees of the Tiffany's around the corner. You sell 100000 dollar jewelry for a living. Buy your own damn lunch and leave us alone.0
re: Nocturnalbill
I would take exception to your comment about children, if I understood you correctly. I let my child take samples because her taste in food matters as much as anyone else's in the family. I absolutely have bought foods she has sampled because she liked them so much. And I have not bought foods I might otherwise have considered because she has said she wouldn't eat it. I would do the same for the Spouse.
Now, I'm not saying I let my child make lunch of the samples. It is unfair, however, to assume that a child is merely snacking.0
re: rockycat
Please note that the comment about kids was followed by the comment grazing. It was not meant that your kids can't sample. Just don't tell them that handfuls are the proper way to sample, followed by multiple return trips.
Believe me, I wholeheartedly approve of making sure the kids will like what you're buying....hell I am selling 26 dollar peppermint bark...lol0
re: Nocturnalbill
So how you "take issue with" it? Do you refuse to give them samples? I'd like to see how you do that. And the Tiffany employees don't benefits proportionally from how much jewelry they sell. Tiffany makes the profit.0
re: PeterL
Bet they have some kind of commission.0
re: PeterL
It's fairly simple, I point you out to my manager, she takes you aside and tells you that you are no longer welcome in the store, as you are not a customer, just a freeloader. Frankly, if you do nothing but walk into my store, take samples (not a sample, but a buffet style raid), and leave, you're not a customer, you're shoplifting. Samples are for customers. As I stated before, if you're at least semi-interested, you'll take a bit and move on, possibly buying, possibly not. If you're the grazer, you're in multiple times in the same day. Regular employees know the grazers.
If you're the employee of another store, a phone call to the manager of that store will usually fix that problem.
And it's a safe bet that Tiffany's employees make a decent salary. Yes the company makes the majority, but they work there not at Zale's for a reason. The idea that they're poor minimum wage slaves (as we are), is a bit ludicrous.0
Offering samples is part of the cost of doing business and is a busines expenses. I am eager to try new things. I do not feel obligated to buy anything from any store. I feel that If I give a store my regular business then there is no issue with my sampling without buying. I do so at TJ's and Whole Foods which I frequently shop at.0
Frankly, I think only YOU can answer that question. I'd find it hard to believe that you don't know ahead of time before you grab a sample whether or not you're interested in buying the product. Let's face it - most of us do know ahead of time that we're not going to be buying it. So there's your quandary. If you feel truly guilty about it, then stop gulping down the samples.
I have to say the only folks I find truly gross are the ones who consider places like Costco a "free lunch". I've actually seen families in Costco pushing their kids up to the various sample areas & insisting they grab & eat as many as possible.
Pathetic, sad, & - in my opinion - bad/rude/stealing. But, as it's a marketing ploy, there really is no restitution.0
re: Breezychow
I disagree that "you don't know ahead of time before you grab a sample whether or not you're interested in buying the product. Let's face it - most of us do know ahead of time that we're not going to be buying it". I REALLY do not know if I will buy the product, however, if I am interested in sampling I MAY buy. But I feel no pressure whatsoever to buy because it's offered as a sample. I take one sample and am happy. I don't "make a meal" out of sampling and do not go to a store specifically to have lunch/dinner. That's just plain rude and pathetic.0
I've seen the people getting the "free lunch" from samples at Costco myself. But honestly, who am I to judge, plus, this is a place where SOMEONE has a paid membership to get in the door, right?
When I was down on my luck, I admit to the fact that I had a loose, rotating schedule in my mind of who had good happy hours (meaning: free food) and what night "Ladies' night" was at various bars. I got my dinner off of one drink and numerous happy hour free eats many nights back then, but I really was broke. So I just think, whatever their issue, it's not up to me to judge whether or not it's legit, or what their reason might or might not be. I'm lucky enough to be able to afford to buy all my food now, so I just ignore them.0
re: rockandroller1
I agree; first, as others have mentioned, free samples are part of doing business and those businesses are writing off this expense at the end of the year. Second, I don't consider taking samples stealing or being rude. If you put an unmanned sample station out, there is no limit to what people will eat. Granted, it may not be in the best taste, but it's not rude. If stores want to limit the amount of samples people eat, they need to hand them out one by one and specify there is a limit. Stealing is finding an open bag of M&M's on a shelf and just help yourself or finding the deli counter, open a loaf of bread and make a sandwich to eat while you walk around the store.
On another note, with the way the economy is, more people will be eating free samples; the stores should know this and make allowances or stop giving out samples. Also, if I pay for a membership and shop at some stores where i spend money regularly like Costco, Sam's, etc. I've already paid for my sample or a couple of them.0
re: Cherylptw
I agree with everything you said.0
re: rockandroller1
You don't have to show your ID to get in these places though (at least that I know of) so you can just go in, have a meal and then not even be able to buy it even if you liked. That is definitely crossing the line into being piggy. And it sounds like what is going on in a lot of these scenarios.0
re: coll
Costco in my area makes it a bit difficult to walk in without a card. Of course, it can be done. But I suspect the amount of people making a meal with free samples (with or without a membership) is infinitesimal when compared to the amount of people going to Costco, or the amount of people on the planet. I simply can't muster the energy to give them any thought at all, much less pass judgment.0
re: coll
wtf? obv. never shopped at a costco. I've been to four, and they require (have a person at the door) id.0
re: Chowrin
We're anxiously awaiting the opening of a nearby Costco, all I know is BJs unfortunately. They have free lunch and anyone can wander in. Probably why the old ladies preparing the food there are so cranky. The only thing you need ID for is to check out at the register.0
re: coll
Oh the Costco employees at the location we visit (Hazlet, NJ) has an employee checking for membership cards once you enter and once you leave. My peeve is their need to slash a black marker through your receipt as you leave. What the heck is that for? Many times I have asked them to mark the blank backside so I could actually read the receipt or submit it later. Checking my items in a micro second, okay...such is life...but the marker??? Anyone else experience this in another location?
See now if your palm was stamped when you rec'd a sample.....hahaha...maybe I should just let that one go...0
re: HillJ
Same here in the L.A. area. Most of the time they barely glance at the items in the cart before automatically marking the receipt. The lines are bad enuf but, if they really took the time to examine every item and compare it with the receipt, the lines would be horrendous. Also, one of the posted reasons for the checking is, in essence, to make sure the customer isn't being cheated. Ridiculous!0
re: mucho gordo
They are looking to see if you were charged on the receipt for 2 or 3/multiplesof an item and then they will look in the cart that you have 3 of something.
Then you can't walk out and subsequently return, telling them you were charged for 3 when you only bought one.
If they see no multiples, they slash and you go. The slash shows someone looked at the receipt.
(one time, over Christmas when I was making a large Costco purchase, I didn't keep a running total in my head of how much it would cost. I paid, was walking out and they caught that I was charged for two bags of dog food instead of the one that I purchased. $23 difference, which was refunded in cash on the spot)0
re: Cathy
Unless the checker is highly skilled, it has been my experience that, because of the long lines, they barely glance at what's in the cart and don't take the time to count, locate the item on the receipt and compare. There's no problem if there are only a few items in the cart but, if it's full.....................0
re: mucho gordo
That is why those carts are stopped at the door, to count MULTIPLES which are on the receipt.
It is why sometimes large carts also go through without being looked at.
It is why a cart with a few items in it is stopped.0
re: mucho gordo
I've only been to Costco a few times with a friend who had a membership, but have been to BJ's many times with my own membership. At BJ's they don't usually check people entering the store (though I think I've seen notices stating that they can/might). They do check receipts as customers leave, usually just making sure the number of items in the cart matches the number on the receipt. Costco uses the marker to show that the receipt has been reviewed/used, so you can't just take an old receipt and fill your cart with the same items. I've seen some Costcos use a highlighter instead of a sharpie. My BJ's uses a hole puncher to mark the top of the receipt through the printed store logo.0
re: mpjmph
They are NOT looking at items, unless multiples are on the receipt.0
re: Cathy
I see...the quick glance in the cart tells them if there are multiples. Sometimes they do an item count and compare the total on the receipt. The possibility of reusing an unmarked recipt by an unscrupulous customer hadn't ocurred to me before although an alert checker would see the date was wrong.0
re: HillJ
At my BJs they punch a tiny hole in it, I would be mad if I couldn't read my receipt too.
I feel like they used to check items more carefully, really dig through the cart, maybe there were complaints. They just glance at the cart quickly, well another senior citizen has a job so it's all good. (Not making fun of seniors! I'm almost there myself and hoping I'll be able to find employment if need be)0
re: coll
When I'm checking out the register is manned by two people focused entirely on my order. One person to tally up my purchases into the register, the other loading my cart. Then, as we have discussed, another employee marks my receipt while checking my cart as I'm exiting the store. I'd prefer they didn't mark my receipt at all but the blank backside is doable for my needs. But I have just come thru trhe checkout line, checked by two employees, so how could multiples be at issue? They would already be caught at time of purchase, no?0
re: HillJ
No. It was a busy time, noisy, and the guy must have accidentally scanned the 20 pound bag of dog food twice. You can't hear beeps. They caught it at the door, reading the receipt. I didn't read the receipt and just knew it would be a large purchase. It was $23 over, which I would not have caught until I looked at the receipt the next day, after I had gotten home, unloaded the car, put things away, started snacking...
Obviously, multiple scanning happens with other people also.0
re: Cathy
Cathy, I always look at my own receipt before existing the store to make sure I was charged correctly. Beeps aside, I wouldn have caught the error myself. But, busy time in a hurry I can see your point.0
re: Chowrin
In Michigan and maybe other states as well, the pharmacy legally has to be open to everyone, so you could get in by saying you were filling a prescription
It annoys me, though, that sometimes when samples are being offered of something I might actually want to buy, I can't get close to the table because of the browse-for-lunch-bunch.
But I have no idea how to improve that...I'm sure Costco would like me to sample something as there's a chance I will buy it, but the moochers mean they will never see my money.0
re: coney with everything
come earlier. the sample hordes show up at noon, and samples come at 11. at least where I'm at.0
re: coll
At the Sam's (similar to Costco) you have to show your membership card to enter.0
I think I probably buy what I sample less than 5% of the time - most of the time, the samples are of types of food I don't usually buy or eat. However, occasionally, the sample convinces me to purchase something, like recently when I sampled some bad ham and realized that even though it was a local brand it wasn't sweet, and promptly bought one.
The samples are there as advertising - they're trying to entice you into impulse purchases. I think it would be crass to go to a store specifically to eat samples without buying, but if you are there for a normal errand, sampling isn't rude, even if you don't buy anything that time.
I think Costco's a bit different because you've already paid a membership to go there.0
Why do you think the samples are there?0
If you are legitimally shopping with the intention of buying then you are not obligated in the least to feel guilty or make a purchase.
I do the same thing at fresh market. Especially during the holidays when they have hot cider. Some days they are out of things, crowded etc. Other days i spend big money.0
No, as long you have some intention of buying things at the store you are at.
However, we have a farmer's market in front of my office once a week (on hiatus now until the spring). I have coworkers who will go down just to chow the samples with no intention of buying anything.
That's not stealing, but it shows a total lack of tact and class.0
re: Raids
I don't think anyone has said this so far. Stores big and small will not do sampling when they think it is not profitable to do so.
A very long time ago, ahem, in college I was a sample person for a short time at Price Club (which is like Costco). We were employees of an outside vendor. Most people took one sample and moved on. Others (mostly old men) made meals there. There is a commercial depicting a man dressing in costumes to dupe the sampler into giving them another taste. It rings true (obv. to a lesser degree). My point? People know what/when they are doing wrong. It may not be illegal, but you have a personal code. Do what feels right to you so you will not have to feel poorly later.
Please be kind to service people. Hi and Thank you make long days bearable.0
I never go into a store that sells food without buying anything, so even if I don't buy the food they're handing out, I will buy something.
But I am super picky about samples. I never try "unmanned" samples because I've seen too many gross things (in the olive oil aisle at WF, for example) that if an employee isn't controlling the hygiene, I don't want to try it. I'd rather just buy the whole $16 bottle of EVOO than risk eating some toddler's half-chewed, flu-contaminated bread.
I also don't take things I know I am unlikely to have an open mind about (gluten free bread, processed foods). So I guess if I have no intention of buying it, I won't try the sample.
Your cinnamon bread is an example where the sample might be useful. . If it's made with natural ingredients and no preservatives or dough conditioners, it's likely to be tasty, but whether it's worth $7.99 a loaf to you, well, that's where the sample can help.0
re: Isolda
I agree with everything you just wrote.0
I started doing wine and liquor tastings shortly after I moved to TX back in 2008. It was a great way to get paid $20/hr. to "people watch" in various areas of the Metroplex, and had to remove all the open product from the premises (i.e. "leftovers" :) )
The tastings were paid for by the distributor, and TABC regulated pours. At the liquor stores I had many more "freeloaders" than at places like Whole Foods, Market Street, Central Market or World Market, but I remember one occasion around Halloween when parents dragged their kids through Central Market with no intention of buying anything but just fill up on all of the free samples.
With wine my goal was to sell a case an hour. Tastings were normally 3 hours. Most often I exceeded that goal. I think my record was 131 bottles in a 3 hour tasting. BUT, if sales were down, I'd call the person who hired me before opening another bottle of wine. We had to purchase the wine from the store where we were demoing it. I didn't want to spend more money if we weren't getting results.
I don't feel guilty at all about sampling and not buying. At Costco I'll even hope they will do a demo of something before I buy enough for a small army and find that I don't like it. At Central Market I've often purchased items thanks to tasting samples and getting recipes. I bought a locally made sauce/dressing thanks to a tasting and accompanying recipes. Never would have considered it without the tasting.
I would never think of eating samples as stealing, but there is good and bad etiquette to "eating for free". If you don't regularly patronize a place and yet look for free samples, that is bad. I have a place that has a great "happy hour" with $4 margaritas and free quesadillas & nachos. I'll go there after work, but I'll also have dinner there or brunch as well.0
I think the point of samples is to get people who might not normally buy the product to try it and find they do like it. So, it's fine to sample, even if you're not planning to buy it. I've had my mind changed. And, it might not be that trip but I'll remember it for the future. If stores offered samples only to people who plan to buy the item, why would they bother? They've already sold it w/out.
I've seen people take multiple samples and I think it's wrong. One woman parked her kids in front of the sample person at TJ's for her whole shopping trip and they wolfed down everything before other customers could get some. And, they poured themselves cups of milk that were out for coffee. That's bad/rude/stealing, imo. I take one sample, my kids can have one sample. If they want more, we buy it to eat at home.0
re: chowser
Heh...and how much stuff have you bought that the kids ate the sample, said "yeah, Mom, buy this, it's good!" then got it home and pitched it because they wouldn't touch it.
(rolls eyes)0
re: sunshine842
sunshine, that is my son to a tee!0
re: sunshine842
I'm that sucker that Barnum talked about.;-)0
re: chowser
Agree with everything.0
re: chowser
That is disgusting behavior, and reaches far beyond anything to do with sampling.0
I don't sample because I have to weave my way through the carts and jerks that are stuffing their faces with samples. And WHY do you have to stand in the middle of the aisle to shovel it in?!0
re: OH2FL
Why don't the people providing the samples encouraging customers to take a sample on move on. Who needs others breathing all over the samples or crowding around a small, hot oven on a cart?0
re: HillJ
I've waited to weigh in on this topic, BUT I was the 'sample supervisor' for the 4 Connecticut Costco locations from 1993-2003.
#1 the demonstrator is there to sell, not just give out samples, she/he is not supposed to move people along, but engage them in conversation and sell the product. Sales figures are kept and a non-producing demonstrator will not hold their job long.
#2 The demonstrators at Costco are shopped by an outside mystery shopping company every month. Rudeness or deviation from standards will also result in a lossof job.
#3 Children may not take samples at Costco. The demonstrator should insist that the parent take the sample and hand it to the child. This helps relieve insurance liability for things such as an allergic reaticon.
#4 People are pigs, and that sums it up, they grab at something for nothing even if they are not interested.
About 20 years ago a did a demo at Price Club for eyeglass wipes. The demo company warned us that there was only one sample per customer, no exceptions. A Price Club member wanted 2, and I refused, both explaining the company rules and pointing out the sign on the table "One sample per person" The customer went to the Price Club manager, who then came to me and told me to give the customer another sample. i explained that I could lose my job, as there might be a secret shopper observing. The manager then told me to pack up the demo and leave the store, Price Club did not care about manufacturer's rules, but their members could have as much free goods as they wished.
The demo comapny and the manufacturer ending up suing Price Club for breach of contract and settled for almost 2 million dollars. Price Club was later bought by Costco and they were more compliant with manufacturer's rules.0
re: bagelman01
I just had to say: awesome story.0
re: Raids
I really don't see how the Demo company and Manufacturer were harmed to receive those damages, settlement or not...based on one incident of a manager who made a mistake interpeting company policy ....or making ill advised personal response.0
re: fourunder
The demo company has a contract with the store, for which they presumably pay, and the store breached the contract by throwing the demo company out of the store.
Therefore, the demo company is entitled to reliance damages - the return of whatever fees paid to the store, the transportation costs, cost of merchandise purchased to be sampled at the store - anything it takes to put the demo company back in the position that it was in before in contracted with the store.0
re: fourunder
It's a good thing you're not a judge. You certainly don't have all the facts and a full understanding of contact law. (BTW...I do have a Law degree).
The manufacturer shipped goods on a guarranteed basis to Price Club. Curtailed Demo equals lower sales, and returned merchandise. Money was spent on advertising in the magazine sent to members as well in general media in the area. Demonstrator had to be paid for full shift. When the manager sent the demo packing, he actually shut down all demos being run by the particular demo company in the location on that day.
As a piece of further information. Costco now owns the demonstration company that does all demos except road shows, but the demonstrators are not Costco emplyees, they work for a company called Club Demonstration Services.0
re: bagelman01
Your right, I didn't have all the facts.....because you didn't supply them,......or maybe, you just acted inappropriately to the customer and you should have been thrown out.
BTW...I don't need to know contract law, that's why I pay my attorney, ....but I do know this much. Any lawsuit has to qualify to move forward, and before it ever reachs a courtroom, it is strongly suggested that parties come to a compromise. I don't think most Demo companies and Manufacturers would risk doing business with Price/Costco for the long term....on a questionable incident that may or may not move forward..... in/for the short term.
Your explanation did sound impressive though.0
re: fourunder
Twenty years ago, Price Club was not that huge a player in the market. The jurisdiction where the complaint was filed allowed a claim to be made for damages in excess of $15,000 without a specific amount sought. Most lawsuits, 93% is a recent figure, never reach a courtroom, and less than 1/2 of those actually continue to a verdict (as opposed to a settlement).
I was not the first outside demonstrator steamrolled by this particular manager. The owner of the manufacturing company had had enough of the superior behavior of Price Club managers.
The customer is not always right, and some customers (in this case Price Club) were not worth having.0
re: bagelman01
Thanks for the additional info bm01 - really interesting stuff. Takes me right back to Contracts.
Fourunder, if you think *that* is a stupid, unjustified lawsuit, I have some really bad news for you. ;-)0
re: bagelman01
People (many, not all, of course) ARE pigs. I do demos and we don't even give out samples anymore, just coupons. You can tell by the way people behave that they have no interest in the product itself, they just want something for free. At least pretend to be interested in what you're grabbing and ask a question or two, you might just learn something.0
re: coll
coll, there's a special place in heaven for professional demonstrators! Hopefully with fluffy slippers, a nice meal and a neck rub!0
re: HillJ
Oh there's lots of neck rubs: I do dog food demos now so the clientele can be very pleasant. It's the puppy parents that are bad. No boy, no! I'm totally qualified to do people food and might even venture into it someday....not at a warehouse place though. Unless all the customers were you!0
re: coll
This piggy behavior is why I only take samples if I think I am genuinely interested in buying the food. It really nauseates me to watch a horde of people breathing all over samples, touching them, letting their kids touch them, smacking as they eat, talking with their mouths full and spewing out particles onto the food and one another.
If you were doing demos involving food samples, I'd advise a hazmat suit.
Yeah, I sound like a curmudgeon, but honestly, there's a reason why we need manners!0
re: Isolda
It really nauseates me to watch a horde of people breathing all over samples, touching them, letting their kids touch them, smacking as they eat, talking with their mouths full and spewing out particles onto the food and one another.
If you were doing demos involving food samples, I'd advise a hazmat suit.
So maybe my phobia about eating free samples isn't so irrational after all.0
re: bagelman01
hi bagelman01, thanks for the recount on personal experience. Anyone paying a membership to Costco know the samples expectations for sales...some folks are rude no matter what..and likely to be in many areas of life. I wasn't aware of a law suit but I'm not surprised by the rules, the misuse, the miscommunication or the powers that be fighting it out. If we were all capable of being a civil society, life would be sweeter...
Question: Without free samples would food items sell less? I'm quite sure I've purchased new products out of curiosity without ever tasting it at the store countless times in my life. The only time I approach a sample cart is if there is no or nearly no line, no rush to grab or if I have a legit question. Not all of my experiences are wonderful but I don't make a point of taking it out on the sales person. I can't imagine what a day of sampling is like at Costco. I'm surprised the law suit didn't end sampling there. What was the outcome?0
re: HillJ
The action was against Price Club long before they were bought by Costco and it was settled. The biggest change in sampling at Costco is that Costco now owns the demo company, and can dictate policy, even if the demo workers are not C ostco employees, the supervisor has to answer to the store managers.
The average increase in a food item's sales due to a tasting demo can be more than 30% on the day of the demo and 10%+ in the coming 6 week period.
I have tried many food items at Costco demo tables that I never bought before, but are now on my shopping list.0
re: bagelman01
And since we're discussing results, what is the percentage of duds and food sampled that turn the public off upon tasting a sample? Do those foods become discontinued?0
re: HillJ
Not all foods carried in a warehouse club are demo'd. But all items must have sufficient turn to keep their shelfspace.
If you are looking at the merchandise in a Costco and see an asterisk on a price sign, then this is an item that has been reduced in price or is being discontinued. Sometimes, it only means that the particular size/packaging is changing and the new shipment will be at a differnt selling price.0
re: bagelman01
Are poor performers reported by demonstrators via intake response from customers or just by "the numbers"0
re: HillJ
With the wine tastings I not only had to report what was sold, but both good and bad feedback from customers. Sometimes I'd be pouring a wine that wasn't a good value, or other times it was a wine that didn't suit the majority of customers. Also, I'd get feedback from store personnel about typical traffic patterns in the store. Sometimes moving a future tasting an hour earlier or later made a big difference.
I'd often be looking in the customer's shopping cart even before I'd offer them a taste. I'd open up the conversation like 'ohhhh, how are you going to prepare {insert ingredient]?' People love talking about themselves and if they are a foodie about their cooking. I'd let them tell me and then say 'I think this wine would be great with that!' If the wine I was pouring definitely wouldn't work, I'd be honest but I'd always have some good pairings I could suggest.0
re: Barbara76137
Fascinating Barbara and smart upsell! I'm always interested in how feedback is acquired. Numbers alone just don't tell the whole story, right. In my small business we place a feedback card on the backside of the tip envelope and have started to cover our office wall with the responses (good, critical and bad). Some of the feedback has been so beneficial to our menu plans.0
re: HillJ
I know the demo companies that hired me were good about relaying the feedback to the distributor (client). I'd get a call for another tasting and the time would be adjusted or we'd also not do tastings at some locations. I would also relay both positive and negative feedback about store personnel. If the beverage manager at a particular store was good or bad, the client was informed. Why should the client be paying for a tasting where the retailer isn't trying to make it increase sales?0
re: Barbara76137
Or waste their time, over the long term, on duds. Feedback is essential there. Very interesting advice, B. Thank you.0
re: HillJ
Mix of sales results, criteria observed by secret shoppers and general management (demo company) observations and decisions.
Individual customer feedback has little weight unless the demonstrator has done something particularly offensive.
Most individual customer complaints have to do with the demonstrator not 'helping' a customer with non-demo items. Customers don't want to understand that the demonstrator is NOTa Costco employee and is being paid that shift ONLY to push a particular product. The demonstrator is not supposed to tell you which aisle detergent is in, or lift that airconditioner into your cart, that job belongs to Costco employees. Standard answer to customers regarding non-demo items: "sorry, I don't work for Costco, please look for an employee wearing a Costco name badge" this does generate complaints, but they are given no weight unless the demonstrator was truly nasty or used offensive language.0
re: bagelman01
Oh, I was (trying) to confine my question to the response on the part of customers sampling the product when/if they did not particularly like it and how those responses were captured.
I've witnessed plenty of interaction at Costco btwn demonstrators and members that had nothing to do with the sampling as you've described tho.0
re: HillJ
sometimes. had a real dud demo on naan at costco. really was being prepared badly.0
re: bagelman01
costco mac and cheese. good stuff! but if you've had kraft, you would cringe before buying ... as kraft is blech!0
re: bagelman01
Thank you for that great perspective on sampling.0
re: bagelman01
Interesting. I know that the demonstrators in the Costco we go to usually pay no attention to who takes how many samples and, unless you ask them a question, they don't try to sell the product.
I'll never understand how anyone can make a meal out of those dinky little morsels.0
re: mucho gordo
My experience and observations are similar to yours. Unless there is a product being pushed for the holidays, e.g. David's Cookie's, selling their Assortment of Cheesecakes.....more often than not, it's a frozen pizza, hamburger, Swiss Miss Hot Chocolate. Apple Juice or Proggresso Chicken soups. These workers are supplying a sample....no real effort is made to sell any particular product at the time of demonstration.0
re: fourunder
Exactly. Now, once in a while they'll have a true product demo as oppposed to someone just handing out samples.0
re: fourunder
Well at my Costco there certainly are efforts to sell the products. The demonstrators provide a stream of consciousness dialog about the product. It's not hard sell, but it's a sell.0
re: mucho gordo
dinky little morsels.
Standard for sample size at Costco is two bites0
re: bagelman01
As measured how??? Usually the demonstrator just scoops up a spoon/forkful and that's it. If the sample is cheese, for example, and on a toothpick, 1 piece is given.0
re: mucho gordo
Maybe the Demo company should be sued by the Manufacturer ....for Curtailed Demo0
re: fourunder
You'd have to talk to the lawyer bagelman about that.0
re: mucho gordo
examples of measurements:
Soup/beverage 1.5-2 ounces
Raviloi/Potsticker/Meatball--cut in half
Cake--about a 1.25" square
Hard Cheese--about 1" x 1/2" piece
Penne w/sauce--3 pieces of the pasta0
re: bagelman01
It seems you're contradicting your '2 bites' statement. Half of a ravioli or meatball can't possibly be 2 bites. Same with the cheese. 1 piece that size can't be 2 bites.0
re: mucho gordo
That is the standard used by CDS who perfoms the demos at Costco.
Individual bites may vary0
re: bagelman01
On 2nd thought, it seems to me the objective would be to give as little a sample as possible so that one can't make a meal out of it easily.0
re: mucho gordo
weekdays they sell like a banshee. weekends, they only talk if they aren't completely inundated.0
Depends on your original intent - if you go into a shop just so you can specifically sample/already know you aren't buying anything, then yes, that's rude.
Taking multiple samples is also rude - if you like it enough to go back for another sample, buy the item! This is a supermarket, not a free buffet and it's suppose to be a SAMPLE, not an impromptu appetizer or mini-portioned entree. Sheesh. I agree with the other posters, people are pigs. No wonder Americans struggle with obesity.0
I was just thinking about this yesterday. I was in Whole Foods and they were handing out nice-sized samples of chorizo. I took a sample. It was deliciuos. I also knew I was never going to buy any. I had no use for it. My husband won't eat it and I'm not so sure it's good for me to eat large quantities of chorizo myself. Still I REALLY WANTED another sample. I felt guilty though since I wasn't going to buy any. It just just so good.
I ended up restraining myself. After reading this thread I'm thinking I should have just taken a second sample. I spent an awful lot of money that day and I doubt the store really could have begrudged me a little extra chorizo.0
I was in Harvey Nichols in London wandering aimlessly about and found myself (surprise!) in the wine and spirits department. It was about 11:30am on a weekday. I thought to myself 'I wonder if they have any interesting gins?' (because they did have some exotic looking bottles around the place) and before I knew it I had been presented with a row of 3 little cups with about half a measure of gin in each. (the 3 gins being the ones I expressed an interest in, I believe had my interest extended to 10 gins I would have been offered 10 cups).
Now, when I entered the shop I'd had no intention whatsoever of buying gin, there just happened to be a rather fine and unusual selection available. There was no overt sales pressure - just a bemused, knowledgable and slightly bored chap asking if I wanted to try another one.
Was I stealing when I was first offered a sample and said 'yes'?
Was I stealing when I took the second? Third? (I didn't actually finish any of them).
In the end I found that comparing gins was highly educational and I did buy 2 bottles I'd not intended to when I started sampling them - but had none of them piqued my interest would that me my problem or that of the shop? The bottles were already open for sampling purposes - they could not have been sold.
Surely the whole point is try it - if you like it, buy it. Or make a note to buy it later.
Of course, next time in London I know where to go for free booze!0
re: Peg
Right on, Peg! I have had a similar experience in a cheese shop. Boy what an educational experience that can be. And samples be thy middle name among some top notch cheesemongers. But I would always defer to the generosity of the shopkeep. I can't imagine walking into a shop that prides itself on doing one, two, threes things very well with a grab attitude. Would ruin the whole experience!0
re: HillJ
I was accompanying a friend on a 3 hour drive and she decided to stop at a roadside winery. I had no intent of buying anything and didn't think she did either, but we wanted to look at their various decorations and wine-related gifts. The person working there was engaging and encouraged us both to try some samples. I went so far to tell her that I wasn't going to be buying anything that day, but she didn't mind, possibly as we both lived close to the main winery location and had mentioned going there for dinners etc. She made a smart choice, we sampled a few different ones and based on our likes she came up with more samples that seemed to fit our taste. We had a good time trying these out (the store was empty so we weren't monopolizing her) and based on our tasting and conversations about them my friend walked out of there with a full case of wine. Good selling on the demonstrator's part.0
re: Firegoat
Firegoat, what a lovely experience. Win-win (boy isn't that refreshing) for all involved.0
re: HillJ
When you start being negative, it's time to stop doing demos. You always get one uplifting experience per shift that keeps you going through all the muckiness.0
re: coll
I'm so happy to hear you say that coll. I'd never stop doing something I enjoy based on the attitudes of someone else. Especially when it comes to pleasures like food.0
re: Firegoat
It's wonderful they had such a generous and engaging person to pour the wine for you. That's the way it should be and the fact that you left with wine shows you how it can be done appropriately.0
re: HillJ
Here's a slightly different question: is it rude to REFUSE a sample? My husband is very adventurous about cheese, but I'm not. He always finds himself in a conversation with shopkeepers at small stores, and when I'm with him, they always cut two samples and offer us each one, but I always refuse because I just don't like cheese. Sometimes they offer the extra one to him, but it always makes me feel bad. I certainly love that stores like this exist and are so interested in giving customers opportunities to try something new, but at the same time, I'm not going to put a piece of cheese in my mouth and gag!! (And, yes, my husband almost always buys something he's sampled, so we're definitely not going in just for grazing purposes.)0
re: erin_grogan
Declining is not rude done politely, right. But, if you wish to take the owners perspective into account and you know going into that shop that you will be offered samples and will decline you might ask your husband or state for yourself to the shopkeep that only one of you is a cheese lover so the slices offered are based on actually eating and not potential waste. I see nothing wrong with being honest.0
Maybe this dilemma can be summed up with the Italian phrase "Fare una brutta figura", for which there is no exact translation. Literally it means "To make a bad figure" it basically means to give a bad impression, rudeness or not having civil attitudes. This applies to those who take a handful of free samples or have little regard for others. It is all a matter of how you see yourself and the form that follows the function of "How you see yourself. Non fare una brutta figura!!!!!!0
re: ospreycove
more.....*entitlement perceptions*0
If the samples are bad, does that mean they have to pay me for eating them? ;)0
I have a phobia about food samples ... won't eat them for love or money (yes I know this is totally irrational, which is why it's a phobia).
I wish Costco would quit the food samples, all they do is stress me out. I try to steer well clear of the sampling stations.0
re: redfish62
You and me both, buddy!0
re: invinotheresverde
Make that three. I don't know how clean those gloved hands really are, I can't abide the number of grabby grubby fingers clutching at processed foods and the vacant eyed stares of the people waiting for a pizza to get cut up into little pieces is disturbing at best.0
re: mtngirlnv
What bothers me most about this thread is how quick people are to label other people as "piggy," "grabby," "grubby," "vacant-eyed" or in other ways gluttonous.0
re: Ruth Lafler
But it makes us feel better about ourselves.0
re: Ruth Lafler
No kidding, Ruth. In fact, it is often dismaying to read these sorts of threads in which hounds start to intimate a moral inferiority (laziness, pigginess, grubbiness, slovenliness, etc.) possessed by anyone who does not behave/eat as they do. It's particularly funny to see this on the thread about class, given that many of the responses are performing the issues described in the article under discussion.
As for this discussion of eating samples, I cannot believe some of the vitriol directed at those who partake in the samples and dare not buy anything. There is something intriguing about this rush to protect the corporations (WF, Costco, TJ) through individual management-- as if there aren't larger issues at stake. Meanwhile, the smaller, individual shops (such as my cheese-monger) have a very different approach to samples, which are more often part of the purchasing exchange, so a bit different.
All that said, I do think that buying aside, there is a matter of etiquette in taking samples and that involves not crowding a station and preventing others from trying. It also involves trying to keep things as hygienic as possible.0
re: Lizard
How dare force your bourgeois morality upon others by speaking out against crowding! What a blatant attempt to privilege the Western capitalist notion of "personal space." And to presume that cultures that permit and encourage crowing are unhygienic! For shame!
He he.0
re: Raids
You all right there, Raids?0
Well I've learned a great deal from this thread. Thnks to the OP for opening the diaolgue! I'll most certainly approach samples and sampling with more thought going forward.0
Thanks to everyone who chimed in. All of the comments kind of made me--also--double think if and when I will ever sample again. The OP was with respect to WHF, not COSTCO, but I think maybe if it is something exceptional--maybe--I'd sample. If it is something I've tasted before or not some uber organic-divine-creation then I will just save it for others.0
I remember an ad that ran on TV in the UK about 10 years back for Sainsbury's supermarket. An office worker tells his coworker he is going to Sainsbury to get lunch and the coworker asks him to fetch him a sandwich while there. So worker #1 gets to the deli counter and is offered a slice of cheese, then a slice of meat, then a couple of olives, then a sample of different meat, and so on. He realizes after standing at the counter and being offered all these samples that he is now full and returns to the office. Of course he forgets worker #2's lunch. Sainsbury's were positively suggesting that customers should sample.0
Sometimes when the sample person isn't looking I dump a bunch of items into my purse.0
Folks, this thread is getting both angry and off-topic in different places, so we're going to lock it now.0


text:
Help Keep Kids Warm this Winter
Plum District Austin partners with Coats for Kids to help families in need prepare for winter
November 8th, 2011 | 3:25 PM
After Austin's sweltering summer, most of us are ready to welcome winter with open arms — finally, a break from the endless 100-degree days! For many Central Texas families, however, cold weather can bring new challenges. Buying new coats for growing kids is costly and often falls to the bottom of a long list of expenses. Thankfully, Austin has Coats for Kids!
Celebrating its 25th year, Coats for Kids is an annual community project that collects and distributes warm winter coats to eligible children and teenagers in Central Texas. Last year, Coats for Kids distributed 35,157 new and gently used coats to young people in Central Texas. Where do all these coats come from? From people like you: Austin moms who love their community!
Each year Austin moms (and dads!) work with their local schools to help facilitate coat drives to support Coats for Kids, bringing in thousands of coats. This year's Coat Drive Competition (sponsored by the Junior League of Austin) officially kicks off November 11 and goes through November 30!
This year, Plum District is excited to partner with Coats for Kids to provide an online donation opportunity for all schools participating in the Coat Drive Competition. This is the perfect option to get friends, family, neighbors, grandparents, etc. involved!
Why should you get your school involved? Plum District will be donating $500 to the PTA of the school with the most online donations! The best part is that Plum District Austin will also give 10% of sales during the Coat Drive Competition back to Coats for Kids!
Register your school today! Once you're registered, you'll receive additional information on how to conduct your own coat drive and collect coats and online donations. What a great tradition to bring to your school!
By Laura Loudamy | Posted in Good Deeds
It's Mobile Monday – Shop Today, $10 Plum Dollars Tomorrow
$10 Plum Dollars Back on Tuesday, November 8th at 12:00pm PT When You Shop on Our New Mobile Site Today
November 7th, 2011 | 12:00 AM
Did you know that two thirds of moms shop with their smart phones? With today's mom being more mobile than ever it only makes sense that Plum District have a mobile site that makes Mom's life easier! Today we are thrilled to announce the official launch of our new mobile site. And to make things even sweeter if you shop from your mobile phone today and buy anything on our site (yes, anything!) we will deposit $10 Plum Dollars in your account on Tuesday, November 8th at 12:00pm PT. Now clicking through a deal from your email just got a whole lot easier!
Rules and Restrictions -
- Use your mobile device with web browsing that supports HTML5 and purchase anything on the site to earn your $10 Plum Dollars
- $10 will be deposited into your account by 11/8/11 at 12:00pm PT.
- Only good for purchases made 12am to 11:59pm PT Monday 11/7/11
- One $10 credit available per customer
- $10 will not be retroactively credited for any other purchases from any other devices
- For any questions or inquiries please contact firstname.lastname@example.com
Make Your Holidays Picture Perfect
Plum District and Shutterfly are teaming up with the best photographers in your area for an extra-special deal.
October 31st, 2011 | 11:03 PM
The holidays are right around the corner, and that means it's time to round up your brood for the annual holiday card. At Plum District we understand that capturing your picture-perfect family is important and that's why we've teamed up with Shutterfly to help make this yearly chore as seamless as possible.
Starting today until November 14, we will be bringing you fantastic deals from the finest photographers near you. These talented shutterbugs are offering can't-be beat photo packages that you won't want to pass up. With more than 50% off most deals, you'll get that fantastic family shoot and stay on budget. But that's not all — we'll give you a $20 promotional discount gift to spend on Shutterfly holiday cards!
So how do you find these amazing deals NOW? It's as quick and easy as saying, "Cheese!" Just locate a photography deal baring the Shutterfly tag and you're on your way to amazing savings.
When you make your purchase you will receive two unique Plum District vouchers — one for your photography session and one to save $20 on your purchase of holiday cards on Shutterfly.
Visit Shutterfly for tips on how to make sure your family photo day is a singing success, then learn how to design and style your holiday card.
2011 truly is the year of the picture-perfect holiday card!
By Paul Kursky, Brand Marketing Manager | Posted in In The District
She's Back … Erin Condren is in the House!
Get your holiday cards and gifting done early this year
October 25th, 2011 | 6:05 PM
Plum District wants you to give you a head start on your holiday gift-giving before your pumpkin is even carved! Starting today the punchy, popular Erin Condren collection will be featured on Plum District for a full five days! Get $50 value on Erin's site for just $25 through this exclusive Plum District deal, curated especially by moms, for moms. Check out the deal!
Fabulous finds for your paper-obsessed best friend, the teacher who likes to plan in style, or maybe your mother-in-law who dreams of a calendar adorned with your kids pictures month after month. You can even check something off your list – holiday cards! Make your holiday cards stand out from the rest and order your personalized one of a kind Holiday cards today.
Surprise your BFF with this super cute notepad!
Spice up your child's teacher life and show your appreciation by gifting this retro planner.
Make sure every grandparent sees their grandchildren's face every day with this photo calendar.
Make your season EXTRA jolly with these fabulous holiday cards.
Plum District Thinks Pink
Raising awareness about a disease that touches all of us
October 19th, 2011 | 11:40 AM
It's hard to believe October is already in full swing. Fall, to me, is all about colors – the leaves are changing, orange and black inspired Jack-O-Lanterns are everywhere you turn, and pink ribbons are proudly displayed all over the city in support of Breast Cancer Awareness month. From charity runs to pink ties to billboards, the "Think Pink" logo and what it stands for reminds us all of the brave women who have battled this serious disease.
The Plum District family believes it is very important to take a moment to acknowledge and reflect on an illness that has affected all of us in some way or another; whether you have gone through treatment yourself, or have seen your mother, sister, aunt, grandma, teacher, cousin, or best friend go through it.
I saw the devastating effects of breast cancer when my Great Aunt Eva passed away when I was 11 years old. She was diagnosed in her 50s and passed away when she was only 64. She was my mom's favorite aunt and one of the happiest people I have ever known. Even in sickness, she always knew how to make others smile and feel important. She left us far too soon and I miss her dearly.
Although great strides have been made in cancer research since Aunt Eva passed away, there is so much more we need to do in the race to find a cure. So what can you do? Raise awareness, educate yourself, and – most importantly – get regular mammograms. If you have gone through treatment, it is important to remember you are not alone. As women, it is important to support and talk to each other. Communication is a powerful tool!
Feel free to share your story with Plum District. I would love to hear about your experiences and what you have been doing to raise awareness.
For more information check out www.breastcancer.org.
By Megan Gardner - CEO | Posted in Plum Community
High Five – Today is Monday Funday!
We are going to deposit $5 Plum Dollars into your account tomorrow for every Plum Deal you purchase today!
October 16th, 2011 | 11:59 PM
Who says Mondays can't be fun? At Plum District we have decided to pronounce today "Monday Funday!" To celebrate this joyous occasion we are going to deposit $5 Plum Dollars into your account tomorrow for every Plum Deal you purchase today! So shop around, buy a deal (or two) you love, and we'll do the rest.
Plum District' s Terms and Conditions for Earning Your $5 Plum Dollars
- Promotion available Monday 10/17/11 12:00am PDT through 11:59pm PDT only.
- Plum Steals do not qualify for $5 Plum Dollars.
- For each deal you purchase we will deposit $5 Plum Dollars in your account. If you purchase multiple vouchers for one Plum Deal, you'll receive multiple $5 Plum Dollar bonuses in your account.
- Please allow up to 24 hours for your Plum Dollars to be deposited.
- Not valid for cash or cash equivalent.
- Deals cannot be put on hold during offer period. All sales are final.
- Offer is not transferable or valid for resale.
- For all questions and concerns regarding promotion please email email@example.com.
- Limited quantities available.
Woohoo! $10 Target GiftCard with $40 Purchase
Who doesn't love shopping at Target?!
October 11th, 2011 | 5:40 PM
Who doesn't love shopping at Target?! At Plum District we aim to delight, so please accept our gift of a $10 Target GiftCard® when you make one purchase of $40 or more Wednesday through Sunday. All you have to do is find a deal with a purchase price of $40 and up, enter the promo code plum10, fill out your address, and we will send you your $10 GiftCard in 20 business days.
Plum District' s Terms and Conditions to Earn Your $10 Target GiftCard
- Promotion available Wednesday 10/12/11 12:00am PDT through Sunday 10/16/11 11:59pm PDT only
- Plum Steals are not eligible for gift with purchase.
- Only 1 GiftCard per person and per household
- No adjustments are allowed on previous purchases or on purchases made with this discount.
- Your Target GiftCard will be delivered in 10-14 business days
- The plum10 promo code may not be used more than one time by an individual.
- Not eligible for use on deals offered through Facebook.
- Cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. Discount applies to Eligible Purchases ("Eligible Purchases") which are active deals only; not applicable towards taxes or shipping.
- Not valid for cash or cash equivalent.
- Deals cannot be put on hold during offer period. All sales are final.
- Offer is not transferable or valid for resale.
- Cost of an eligible deal must be $40 or more. Offers with a "value" of $40 or more are not eligible. For all questions and concerns regarding promotion please email email@example.com.
- Limited Quantities available
Target disclaimer-
Your GiftCard® can be redeemed for merchandise or services at Target stores in the U.S. or Target.com, and cannot be redeemed for cash or credit except where required by law. No value until purchased. For balance information, visit www.Target.com/GiftCards or call 1-800-544-2943. To replace the remaining value on a lost, stolen or damaged card with the original purchase receipt, call 1-800-544-2943. See GiftCard terms and conditions.
The San Francisco Team Supports Breast Cancer Awareness
Lisa Barnes shares her story of survival and why she is proud to support awareness
October 10th, 2011 | 2:13 PM
Written by Lisa Barnes, San Francisco District Consultant
Seven years ago my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. I clearly remember the phone call from my dad telling me that the tumor was malignant. After calmly telling me the diagnosis, I simply handed the phone to my husband and walked outside. Words failed me, and I cried. At the time, we lived over 6,000 miles away, and the feeling of helplessness was overwhelming. I worried about my mom, I worried about myself, and I prayed like I never had before.
Fortunately, she beat breast cancer and I am proud to say that my mother is a survivor. I love that when I call her every morning she still asks "Lisa, did you have breakfast?" Used to drive me nuts, but now I realize it's the little things that are important.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. For those women and men who have been diagnosed, have survived, or have journeyed with a family member or friend through their diagnosis – you know that every day is a day of awareness. That is why I am so proud that our San Francisco Bay Area Team at Plum District is partnering up with Breast Cancer Connections to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
For the entire month of October, the Plum District Bay Area team will donate 2% of all deals purchased on www.plumdistrict.com to the Bay Area branch of Breast Cancer Connections.
Please show your support by passing on the information, and/or sharing a Plum District Deal with your friends and family.
Breast Cancer Connections is a nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive, personalized information and support to empower people touched by breast cancer. Their free programs serve a range of needs, whether emotional, informational, or access to care. From newly diagnosed to survivorship, compassionate staff and volunteers offer support every step of the way. For more information, visit www.bcconnections.org.
Spend $20 and Earn a $5 SUBWAY® Card Thursday – Sunday
Plum District is giving you the gift of fresh food fast when you purchase a deal on our site
October 5th, 2011 | 6:23 PM
We know that you're a busy mom with lots of places to go and kids to feed. So we want to thank you for taking the time to shop on Plum District. Plum District is giving you the gift of fresh food fast when you purchase a deal on our site. Just purchase a $20 (or more) Plum Deal, enter the code plumgift at checkout, fill out your address, and voila — we will send you a $5 SUBWAY® card!
Plum District' s Terms and Conditions to Earn Your $5 SUBWAY® Card
- Promotion available Thursday 10/6/11 12:00am PDT through Sunday 10/9/11 11:59pm PDT only
- Plum Steals are not eligible for gift with purchase.
- Only 1 gift card per household
- No adjustments are allowed on previous purchases or on purchases made with this discount.
- Promotion code is only available for one time use per user.
- Your SUBWAY® Card will be delivered in 10-14 business days
- The plumgift promo code may not be used more than one time by an individual.
- Not eligible for use on deals offered through Facebook.
- Cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. Discount applies to Eligible Purchases ("Eligible Purchases") which are active deals only; not applicable towards taxes or shipping.
- Not valid for cash or cash equivalent.
- Deals cannot be put on hold during offer period. All sales are final.
- Offer is not transferable or valid for resale.
- Cost of an eligible deal must be $20 or more. Offers with a "value" of $20 or more are not eligible. For all questions and concerns regarding promotion please email email@example.com.
SUBWAY® Terms and Conditions-
SUBWAY® is a registered trademark of Doctor's Associates Inc. and is not a sponsor or co-sponsor of this promotion. Cards are issued by Value Pay Services LLC and may only be used for purchases at participating SUBWAY® restaurant. Unless the card is registered online at www.mysubwaycard.com, remaining balances on lost, stolen or damaged Cards cannot be replaced or refunded.
The Family that Eats Together
Here's some Plum District Food for Thought on Why Eating Together Matters
October 4th, 2011 | 4:57 PM
Does your family dine together? Did you as a kid? How important is it in your home to eat together? In today's world, we are constantly connected to each other via technology, but how often do we really connect? For a busy family, with varying schedules, one thing is for certain – we all have to eat! So why not make mealtime a special time with your family. Food for thought:
- Children who frequently eat meals with their families tend to do better in school as well. A 1994 Lou Harris-Reader's Digest national poll of high school seniors showed higher scholastic scores among students who frequently shared meals with their families. And a survey of high-achieving teens showed that those who regularly eat meals with their families tend to be happier with their present life and their prospects for the future.
- In a study of American teenagers funded by the Council of Economic Advisers to the President (2000), they found a strong association between regular family meals (five or more dinners per week with a parent) and academic success, psychological adjustment, and lower rates of alcohol use, drug use, early sexual behavior, and suicidal risk.
- Another University of Minnesota study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that children who ate family meals consumed more fruits, vegetables and fewer snack foods than children who ate separately from their families.
Hear why Plum District's own Karyn Agosto cherishes family meal time-
Food is 100% the glue that holds my family together. You've never met more women that talk about recipes than my mom, aunts, grandmother, and extended family. Sunday lunch in the Grimaldi household was "the meal" growing up and is still just as important today. You just never missed it! We'd all head to church as a family in the morning – some happier than others to be up early on a Sunday. My mom would start her meal preparations before we left the house. To this day, I still love walking through the front door after mass and the smell of the yummy, "cooked with love" food hitting me in the face.
My mom always had food on the table during the week too, and if you were anywhere within a 25-mile radius of our dinner table, you were expected to be home to eat with the family. My friends all knew the rules too. I didn't even have to explain it to them that I must be home by 5:00, and to be honest, I think some were even a little jealous. Sports practice, a class assignment, or being kidnapped were about the only reasons we could get out of the family dinner. My mom worked a full day, would run here and there with us after school, and yet dinner was always ready – except for Friday night pizza night. My mom is no Julia Child, but there is a reason for the curves I have today (thanks Mom :)).
There were and still are lots of laughs and funny stories that take place during mealtime. Many meals were spent trying not to laugh at our picky baby sister as she choked down something she didn't like or hid food under her napkin. Mom's rules – we must eat at least one of the vegetable options on the table and no, salad did not count. We always asked to "be excused." I will never forget the night my mom told my 19-year old brother he couldn't have dessert after not finishing his meal. Some meals were also spent not talking to each other. Likely, because my mom told me I couldn't go out that night or because my dad grounded me from my car. Nonetheless, I was still there, with the family, sulking my way through dinner.
Now that my husband and I have a one year old who is eating table foods, the family meal has taken on a whole new meaning. I finally understand why my parents wanted us home for dinner. I now see get how hard it is to have meals ready each night for the family. And I so appreciate how good my mom was at both her job and taking care of her family. The meal truly is what brings you together.
Today people are never disconnected from their social "friends," but we can't find the time for a quality conversation with family members. Thirty minutes at the dinner table really makes a huge impact on your family. It wraps up the day nicely and gives your child a daily tradition that they can depend on. It's not always easy, but whether they like it or not, someday, I want my children to say, "we ate dinner as a family."

subset: commoncrawl


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A Bathing Ape x Schott – One Star Riders Jacket
A biker jacket isn't just for rebels, especially when BAPE and Schott NYC come together to present their take on the silhouette. As a piece of their larger Holiday 2013 Collection, A Bathing Ape x Schott's One Star Riders Jacket features a 100% black leather body with … READ MORE
A BATHING APE x Yoshifumi Egawa – "A SKATING APE" Collection
A BATHING APE turned to one of the pioneers of Japanese streetwear scene, Yoshifumi Egawa, for their latest collaboration effort. Egawa is affectionately known by his nickname, Yoppi or Yops, worked closely with veteran graphic designer, SK8THING, on this A SKATING APE collection. The rather large collection … READ MORE
AAPE by A Bathing Ape Store | The Venetian Macau
AAPE by A Bathing Ape, the younger, hipper version of its parent company, has opened up in the Venetian Macau fronting the Moonface Logo and the brand's characteristic silver, space-aged interiors. Created for young men aged 15 to 25, this new AAPE store is stocked with signature merchandise of … READ MORE
Mr. BATHING APE – 1st Camo Sneaker
The old saying that "the more things change, the more they stay the same" is perfectly suited to describe this new 1st Camo Sneaker from Mr. BATHING APE. Partly based on old designs from A BATHING APE's archive, it features the classic 1st Camo print on its … READ MORE
If you are a fan of A BATHING APE, NIGO, vintage collectibles, rare toys, or all of the above, this might be the perfect chance to fulfill your dream. In celebration to the 20th anniversary of A BATHING APE, they are opening up the much talked about … READ MORE
Beats By Dr. Dre x BAPE – 20th Anniversary Limited Edition Solo HD Headphone
On your ears and on the scene, the makers of Beats by Dr. Dre are hitting us with a limited edition solo HD headphone set in celebration of the 20th anniversary of cult-famous Japanese street-lifestyle brand A BATHING APE. The Beats by Dr. Dre x NOWHERE/A BATHING APE piece … READ MORE
UNIQLO UT Names NIGO As Its New Creative Director
UNIQLO of Fast Retailing Co. Ltd has released an official statement naming NIGO as the creative director for its U.T. line. Having left his own Japanese street wear brand, A Bathing Ape, this past April, NIGO's venture into Japanese lifestyle brand UNIQLO will be a welcome change for … READ MORE
Star Wars x A BATHING APE x MEDICOM TOY – VCD Darth Vader + Stormtrooper Baby Milo Toys
When it comes to figures and toys, Tokyo-based toy manufacturer, MEDICOM TOY, is the go-to company for high quality products. Star Wars and A BATHING APE have worked independently with MEDICOM TOY on numerous occasions, and now they are ready to launch the triple-brand collaboration items. Created … READ MORE
A Bathing Ape – Fall/Winter 2013 Editorial | By Sense Magazine
For its Fall/Winter 2013 looks, A Bathing Ape once again hired the talented stylists of SENSE Magazine to feature their collection in the best light. Wearing staple goods of camo print puffy jackets, cargo pants and denim jeans, the model showcases the form-fitting silhouettes and clean lines … READ MORE
A BATHING APE – Alpha MA-1 Flight Jacket | Available Now
It has been a long time coming ever since the first sample appeared on a Japanese magazine spread a few months ago. But finally, the much anticipated Alpha MA-1 Flight Jacket from A BATHING APE is available here Stateside. Made to the exact specification of the original … READ MORE
A BATHING APE Type 1 BAPEX Watch – Silver/Green | Available Now
The A Bathing Ape Type 1 Bapex is an annual favorite, offered up by the Japanese brand with a variety of styles and colorways that never disappoint. Inspired by the iconic Rolex Submariner, the watch is the perfect blend of BAPE camo style with the functionality needed … READ MORE


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Italian: 1971 was considered to be one of the greatest vintages of the 20th century for Italian wine. Excellent growing conditions during 1971 produced a small crop of rich, full bodied wines that have aged gracefully and will last for many years. In Piedmont, Barolo and Barbaresco are outstanding with a high level of consistency. Barbera d'Alba and Barbera d'Asti were also excellent.
In Tuscany, the best results were in Chianti where 1971 was officially rated a 5-star vintage. Many of the wines have shown exceptional ageing qualities. It was also a good vintage for Brunello.
Bordeaux: 1971 was a very good wine vintage whose only failing was to be overshadowed by the outstanding 1970 vintage. The crop size of the 1971 vintage was very small making wines a rarity. Well-stored examples of wine are likely to remain mature for a few more years.
Sauternes and Barsac: Sweet wines such as Sauternes and Barsac were outstanding in this year and will last for many decades to come.
Vintage Port: Port lovers should opt for 40 year aged Tawny ports. Not a declared year.
32 products found.
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Righetti Luigi
This unique red wine from the Valpolicella area is made by grapes dried up to three months before being pressed. The technique of fermenting these semi-dried grapes makes a very strong wine, velvety in texture, filled with burnt plum flavors, and slightly higher in alcohol. Amarone is great with a rich meal of strong meats and aged cheeses.
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Price: £119.00
Stock: 1 in Stock
Terre del Barolo Reserva Speciale
From the Outstanding 1971 vintage, the Terre del Barolo has a very mature appearance. On the nose, sweet, nutty, figgy nebbiolo aromas. On the palate this is very mature wine, delicious, integrated and open palate with some nice sweet black-figgy-pruney fruit and a nice depth and balance. Ready for drinking now
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Price: £95.00
Stock: 1 in Stock
Marchesi di Barolo
Made with the Nebbiolo grape, Barolo is considered to be one of the finest types of wine in the world and is often refered to as 'the King of wines'. 1971 is one of the all time classic vintages for Barolos
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Price: £99.00
Stock: 2 in Stock
Berteletti Fratelli
Cherries on the nose with woody, tobacco and slightly floral tones. Full and delicious on the palate with fruits and some minerals present and pleasing tannins.
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Price: £94.95
Stock: 1 in Stock
Cantina Consociate Raggi
Still a wine of great character, and one that will give a tremendous amount of pleasure. Very lively on the nose, with tons of earthy, funky, animal notes, some undergrowth, lots of lovely red cherries and a healthy dollop of beef stock, along with sweet toffee and toast scents. The palate attacked with super fresh acidity, more red cherry flavours, haw flakes and some honeyed dates. Nicely aged, but this still had a sense of structure and firmness of tannin underlying it until the finish, where the energy from the acidity gave out a bit, and the wine dipped with a shortened show of sappy cherry and smoke. …
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Price: £69.95
Stock: 2 in Stock
From the outstanding 1971 vintage, this wine shows the magic of an aged Barolo. It starts with a beautiful Piedmontese nose of chocolate, damp wood, soy sauce and spice surrounded by deep, slightly heady aromas of dried dates, cherries and figs, all wreathed by classic notes of rose and tar. The palate is still just about right - still bright with acidity, but with tannins that had softened out, it showed lovely earthy flavours specked with wood spice, smoky tar and flowers floating around a delicious mouthful of sour cherries as the wine moved into a nice fresh finish that ended with a touch of savoury earth and soy notes ringed with a little halo of rose petals. …
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Price: £89.95
Stock: 6 in Stock
This is a sweeter style liquor style of wine is drinking well but will keep for further years. The Cannonau (also known as Cannonao, Cannonadu or Canunau) is the most popular wine from the island of Sardinia. It's mostly produced in the centre of Sardinia, even if we can find production of this famous wine in all the island. The grapes used for this Sardinian wine is the Cannonau. (At least 90 % of this grapes has to be used to be certified as original Cannonau). Cannonau is a very "strong wine" so it should be used with elaborate red meat and some types of cheese.
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Price: £52.95
Stock: 1 in Stock
Pauillac 1er Grand Cru Classe, Level vts, label intact, slightly stained
Château Lafite Rothschild 1971 proves that Lafite Rothchild's wines always live up to its reputation, and it is the most consistent of first growths.
According to Jamie Goode (of wineanorak.com): "...the 1971s have consistently been undervalued. Thirty years' on, only the best of the vintage will still be at anything like their peak. But it's worth remembering that back in '71 Bordeaux wines were still made for long ageing. Yields have become considerably higher in recent years, and it's arguable that even the best properties no longer make such long-lived wines."
"Has an aroma like an aged Burgundy, with cherry and spice; flavor is mature, soft, very elegant. …
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Price: £595.00
Stock: 2 in Stock
Pauillac 1er Grand Cru Classe
*** 87 Points - Wine Journal ***
"It is ten years since I last encountered this '71. It unexpectedly has a deeper colour than the '70, the nose certainly more mature than before, forsaking that mint aroma for meatier, dried blood/ferrous notes. The palate is medium-bodied without the weight and depth of the '70, but still quite fresh and well-defined at first, though a little "frayed" towards the leafy finish. Fine. " Neil Martin, Wine Journal 2008
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Price: £325.00
Stock: 1 in Stock
Angelo Ballabio
This wine is from a small commune in the Lombardy wine region which is located in north central Italy and currently has 15 DOC's, 3 DOCG's and 13 IGT designations. Lombardy wine region has a diverse terrain but is considered a "cool" continental climate. Many of the wine areas are located near some of Lombardy's major lakes including Franciacorta near Lake Iseo and the Garda Bresciano and Garda Mantovano regions near Lake Garda.
more >>>
Price: £34.95
Stock: 1 in Stock


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HOPEWELL � Longtime Hopewell Town Highway worker Lee Schutt was on his way to buy parts for vehicle repairs Tuesday when the town pickup truck he was driving was crushed under the impact of a big rig carrying six tons of grain at the intersection of Route 96 and Payne Road in Farmington.
HOPEWELL � Eliminating 90 percent of landfill waste by 2028 is the goal behind a proposal Ontario County Administrator John Garvey pitched to the county�s Environmental Quality Committee on Wednesday.
CANANDAIGUA � Four local students have taken their summer vacation and their passion for paleontology and created a unique collection that�s generating some cash.
You don�t need to go far to get bitten by a tick.
Week in ReligionAmericans who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) are significantly less likely than their non-LGBT counterparts to consider themselves religious, according to a new Gallup poll.
By Melissa CrawleyMore Content Now
August 14Word of the Day, This Day in History, Number to Know, Website of the Day, Today�s Featured Birthday and Daily Quote.Word of the Day
I was in the hallway of Woodcliff Hotel and Spa the first time I mentioned it. My husband and I had just been upgraded from a regular room to the Orient Suite � a difference of about $200 a night � and I made my confession right there by the...
What's the ideal post-workout beverage: Coconut water? A sports drink? A protein shake? We give you the run-down.
LATROBE, Pa. � Ben Roethlisberger has already been where EJ Manuel wants to go.More than once actually.
- Events Calendar


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Use code HA26E7 details >* To Save 10% on orders $249 or more. Use promotion code HA26E7 during checkout. Discount does not apply to shipping charges, delivery surcharges, duties or customs fees and cannot be combined with any other offer. Promotion cannot be used on previous orders. This promotional offer may be modified or terminated at any time. Offer expires 11/29/2014 at 11:59pm ET.
Fabulous Favor, Tasty Treat
The Silver Celestial Mint Tin is a great favor for your star inspired event. This 3 1/2 x 2 3/4 inch aluminum mint tin holds approximately 1/2 oz of peppermints and is the perfect favor for your celestial theme.
Reviewed by 1 customer
Best Uses
Using these for a convention favor


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The work of two young local artists, Timothy Harding and Jennifer Jones, will explore deconstructivist ideas relating to architecture as well as personal reflection at The mod.shop Gallery on Alpha Road. Harding's deconstructive projects interact with the contrast of constructed environments they occupy while Jones' pick apart the emotions and reactions she faced after her father's death. Both artists explore pencil drawing on white backgrounds that seem to expand the gallery's space and simultaneously showcase the drawings' subtle serenity. This summer, D magazine selected Jones as part of the New Dallas 9, a group of artists who believe in the universal voice of local art. The exhibition is open until December 11. For more information, call 214-604-6362 or visit modshopinc.com.
Tuesdays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Starts: Nov. 27. Continues through Dec. 11, 2009


text: American Baby Magazine: 6 Issues Free September 17, 2009 By Madame Deals Leave a Comment Get a FREE subscription to American Baby magazine. You will get 6 free issues. The best part is, they didn't ask for a credit card! You may also like:Free Samples for Expectant ParentsFREE Subscription to BabyTalk Magazine!Good Housekeeping – Free TrialFREE Introduction to Baked & Delicious Magazine! $20 Value! Just pay $4.95 shipping!


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Results 1 - 4 of 4
byHeartland, October 4, 2013
And it's responsive, so that it scales to look great on any size device.
The development team/support staff are great to work with. They go above and beyond in listening to users' requests and helping with any problems.
You will not be disappointed in this incredible extension!
byHeartland, August 31, 2011
byHeartland, August 17, 2011
However, it is free, powerful and beautiful. I wish the reviewer before me who gave it 1 star would have contacted the developer before posting the review, because it has the GCalendar view and the Google view as it has for several iterations. I'm using it on 1.7, and it works great!
byHeartland, February 25, 2010
After looking for an extension to customize my contacts EXACTLY the way I wanted, I realized the only exact approach would be my own, and this tool let me do it. And that's only the beginning. If you need data entered, displayed, edited, chartered, mapped, calculated, manipulated, searched, etc., this is the extension for you! The extension is free; support if you need it is reasonable!


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|Search Term: Add A Term (This Search Box Keeps Your Color Settings)
Expanded Search Colors
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Love My Dress Wedding Blog
As Featured On "Here Comes The Sun ∼ Wedding Day Style & Photobooth Fun..."
perfect bound
As Featured On "15 years of martha stewart weddings"
Style Me Pretty
Tickled Pink Brides
As Featured On "Wedding Favors"
Polka Dot Bride - The Australian. . .
As Featured On "Australian Garden Wedding Shoot"
trendsetting wedding
As Featured On "Traditional Meets Modern Chicago Wedding"


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Featured Entry
Bands We Like
If you call GWAR's Brent Purgason to chat about his band, you're presented with not one potential interview subject but two.
The first is Purgason himself, who has played guitar...
Artists We Love
Up On Sun
In spring of last year, Stephen Rose shot an email to Jen Long and Matt Flag about an idea he had. Each of the three headed independent labels that release...
Hi Tucson!
Reefer Madness
Kottonmouth Kings
For about as long as music recordings have existed, give or take 30 years, people have been using songs to pay tribute to weed. In 1929, Louis Armstrong and...
Earlier this month, news circulated widely that a metal group called Unlocking the Truth have inked a record deal worth $1.7 million with Sony Music Entertainment. Loads of outlets picked...
Hear This
Local Wire
Jason KillingsworthMinibosses
Where would Minibosses be without Samus Aran and Jimmy Page? On the day of its release in 1987, pre-teen Aaron Burke picked up Metroid, an action game for the...
Show Preview
facebook.com/boyfrndzBoyfrndz is scheduled to perform Sunday, March 30, at Last Exit Live.Pushing any kind of artistic endeavor through to the finish line is a process destined to involve evolution. Practically...
Sean Lennon via Windish AgencyCibo Matto is scheduled to perform on Friday, February 21, at Crecent Ballroom.Admit it: You've always longed for a music video that, in sum, features shots...