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Disclaimer: JAG is (or was...) owned by some other people, like Bellisario who unlike certain other people -coughs- Stargate -coughs- gave us a better ending...still kinda sucky (stupid coin toss!)
Spoilers: Anything through Seasons 2-10.
Rating: M - this one section is in italics, so if you don't want to read it, you can just skip over it if that is your wish.
This is my first attempt at a JAG fanfic, and whilst I love JAG (especially the Harm/Mac pairing), I missed a lot because of the way Prime (the station it aired on) treated it, they would air a few episodes, then switch nights and times...then take it off for two months, then put it back for a few weeks...repeat for 5 years! In fact, in Australia the final episode aired in about August of last year, two years after it aired in the US! All I can say is I am very thankful to Anikas on youtube for uploading so many episodes, especially ones with lots of Harm/Mac shippy goodness, they got me up to speed and into a good shippy mood, hence the following.
However, because of this, I'm not sure what events happen when, like the whole Mic (what WAS she thinking!?) and Renee thing, then Webb. And who is Dalton? You can see my dilemma here. So any and all mistakes are mine. Consider this happening in season 8 or 9, and is most definitely AU. PS I know about the whole '4 thing'...I figure 4 is still a change.
I hope you enjoy my first foray into the JAG world.
Dropping his worn canvas bag on the floor, Harm leant against the front door to his loft and let out a deep sigh. After nearly 5 months TAD (two months longer than anticipated due to a active flight status shortage) to a ship in the mid Atlantic, he was just glad to be back on solid ground and, if he really thought about it, he realised that flying was still a passion, he had lost the drive to do it as a career. The minute he had stepped off that carrier, he had handed his wings in. He was nudging 40, and as the CAG had mentioned, he was old enough to be the father of some of the younger pilots, the time felt right to hang his wings up. He was going to miss it for sure, but he still had 'Sarah'. But it was time for the next chapter of his life to start. A chapter that hopefully would contain a certain Marine. Whilst it was too late to call tonight, as it was nudging midnight, and seeing as it was Christmas Eve he knew that Mac would probably be safe and sound, rugged up in front of the fireplace…maybe even tucking Chloe in, Harm already knew he would be up at first light to surprise Mac, and the Roberts' on Christmas Day. Though he had no presents for any of them, not even for little AJ or the twins, he knew they would be happy knowing he was back safe and sound after 5 months away from home.
Stepping inside his loft, Harm set his bag on the floor and quickly shed himself of his gloves and coat leaving them draped over a chair and, without bothering to turn the light on, made his way towards the open kitchen, hoping that the beer he had left in the fridge was still drinkable. The first odd thing he noticed was the half-eaten meatlovers pizza that was sitting on the bench, the second was the empty tubs of ice-cream in the trash. Opening the fridge up, he was surprised to find it relatively well stocked, milk, yoghurt etc all yet to reach their expiration date. Furrowing his brow, Harm looked around the loft and started to see other signs of recent human habitation, a jacket on the couch, an open newspaper on the side table, his mail stacked neatly according to relevance, bills, promotion, personal and junk. Swallowing, he stalked through his loft, trying to find some clue as to the mystery inhabitant was, it could have been Mattie, or even Jen, but they both had their own place, and had no reason to keep, leave and eat food in his loft.
Slipping into his bedroom area, he flicked the light on, so as to make sure that someone wasn't hiding in his bathroom. Almost immediately his gaze was drawn to the bed, a rather obvious human sized lump in his bed, clearing his throat softly from the top of the step, he attempted to wake the intruder without coming any closer. When that failed, he tiptoed to the side of the bed and gently tugged on the quilt which was obscuring the occupants face, slowly revealing the face of…Mac?
Harm pulled back, frowning…why would Mac be sleeping in his bed? Looking closer, he noticed her fist curled by her face, a tissue clenched tightly in her fingers, a pillow hugged tightly to her chest with other arm. His gaze snapped towards her face, taking in the red nose and the tear streaks on her face.
"Oh Mac…" he whispered softly, brushing a lock of her hair away from her face and smiling softly when she turned her head in sleep, leaning into his touch.
"Mac?" he asked, raising his voice slightly, as his fingers brushed over her cheekbones. "Sarah?" the last had the desired reaction, her eyes slowly blinking open, confusion evident in their chocolate depths as they suddenly opened wide.
"Harm?" she questioned tiredly, still clutching the pillow tightly to her chest. "Are you real?" she added softly, almost wistfully.
"I'm real Mac." He assured her, he couldn't hide the concern that was in his voice. "How come you're here?" he asked, running his hand through her hair.
Mac shifted on the bed, pulling the pillow closer to her body. "I missed you…despite how angry at you I was…" Mac paused, close to tears once again. "I missed you." She repeated quietly, a hint of sadness in her voice.
Harm closed his eyes, before he slid onto the bed. "I'm sorry Mac…I was just everything happened so fast, I didn't know how to cope with it. And I did the only thing I knew how too…I walked away, like a coward."
"But you're only a coward with me…aren't you?" she questioned, her words an eerie echo of those spoken on a ferry as they sailed under the Sydney Harbour Bridge, only a few years ago. Harm looked into her eyes for a second, before dragging them away to stare at a rumple in the quilt.
"We've put this talk off for too long." He said, after an eternity of silence. "We should have…after last time…you know, talked."
"Harm, our relationship is full of what if's and if only's, this is just another one to add to the pile."
"Relationship?" he questioned, his eyes still not meeting hers.
"Yes Harm, however bizarre it may be, we do have a relationship…work partners, friends and maybe something more…the lines are so blurred when it comes to us, sometimes I don't know where I stand with you." Mac told him honestly, still curled under the warmth of the blanket.
"I thought you knew…" Harm whispered in response, his eyes showing pain when he turned to meet Mac's gaze and, not for the first time, took his breath away with the love and devotion in them…this time mixed with sadness.
"No-one wants to be a mind-reader Harm. I may have had an idea…but sometimes we need to be told. And there has always been complications with us…your father, Renee, Mic…with all that, sometimes I would doubt…I would wonder."
By now, the tough as nails fighter pilot, was close to tears himself, knowing how much he had hurt the woman that he cared about so much…loved so much. "Mac…I'm so sorry I hurt you…" he wanted to continue but was silenced by Mac, who cut in on his words
"I know Harm…but I need to know something." Her face was serious, and Harm was already hearing the warning bells going off in his head, but he need anyway. "Are you ready to let go?"
A million images flashed through his head, every single 'moment' in his life, all his mistakes, all his missed opportunities, all his failures. And one thing slowly became clear to Harm, he didn't want to fail at this, he didn't want to miss this opportunity, and he certainly didn't want to screw it up. Because screwing up would mean hurting Mac…and he couldn't do that. He couldn't live with himself if he hurt her like that. Because he cared for Mac. He loved her, honest to god, I'll take a bullet for you love. Closing his eyes he leant back against his bed, exhaling as he went, he knew he was ready, he was ready to let go…but admitting that and doing that were two entirely different things.
Smiling gently, he tilted his head to look at Mac, still clutching her pillow, still snug under his doona. She looked…beautiful, perfect in his eyes, almost angel like as she blinked up at him, her lips slowly being tugged into a smile as he returned the gesture, before reaching over to gently trace her jaw. "I'm ready to let go Mac. I just…I don't know how."
Smiling through unshed tears, Mac slid up the bed, careful to keep the pillow over her lap, as she pulled Harm into a hug. "I'll be right here beside you flyboy, you're not the only one that needs to know how to do this." She whispered against his hair, soothing him with long, languid strokes of her hands.
"This would be easier without the pillow…" he whispered back, gently tugging at, as Mac pulled back.
"Harm…I…I have to tell you something." She told him softly. "Or maybe I should just show you." She added, her voice dropping to an almost whisper like volume. Closing her eyes for a minute, she took a deep breath before she removed the pillow. Her breathing almost stalled in her throat as Harm's eyes left her face to trail down her body, finally coming to rest on her belly, rounded by the child that grew within. He swallowed thickly, his voice caught in his throat as he reached out to gently touch the material of the Navy shirt that she wore. He stopped short of actually touching her, as his eyes flicked up to meet hers. "Yours." She stated simply, revealing the obvious.
Harm had already known this, from the moment she had removed the pillow he had known. The tears, the ice-cream, her needing to be here…and in an instant his mind flew back to nearly 5 months ago.
He was casually throwing everything that would spoil into his bin when he heard the knock at his door. Sighing, he dropped the bag onto the floor and made his way to the door, flicking the chain off he opened it to reveal his partner, Mac, her eyes blazing as she stared up at him.
"Why?" she stated, pushing past him and stared around his apartment.
"Orders." He replied, shrugging simply as Mac seemed to deflate in front of him, her shoulders slumping as she faced him. "C'mere." He whispered, stepping closer to her and opening his arms in invitation. Mac nearly flew into his arms. It had started off simply, brushing a lock of hair away from her eyes, wiping away a tear. And suddenly, Mac's lips were on his own, caressing, sucking, probing. Within minutes she was pulling his shirt over his head as she pulled him towards his bed. His own hands were not idle over, running over her skin as he pulled her clothes off, leaving a trail behind them before they crashed onto bed, half undressed and mouths still fused to each other as they hungrily sought each other out, tongues wetly sliding past each, tears mingling and hands desperately pulling at clothes.
-M scene to follow-
It was Mac that set the pace the first time, it was hard, and fast, and furious, straddling him as she wrapped her arms around his torso with her head buried in his neck as she continued to slide over him, the stretch that he caused was just a little too much, the pain just enough to remind her that this was real. She sobbed into his shoulder when she came, white light flashing behind her eyes as her whole body convulsed around his, feeling his back arch and the final upward thrust of his hips as he came with her, his arms holding her to him as he tenderly stroked her hair, and soothed her muscles. The second time was controlled by Harm, his hands stroking softly over her body, his lips trailing after as he slowly, and methodically turned her into a 5"9 quivering pile of goo. He learned every nuance of her body, and when his mouth had breathed a hot fire over her already burning core, she had damn near come on the spot. When he thrust into her the second time, he had dropped his head to her collarbone, kissing and licking at the soft skin, calming himself down, before beginning to slowly build his thrusts, angling them just right, making sure that she came again, his blue eyes a husky midnight shade as he continued to pound into her. She had held on her fingers gripping his arms, then sliding around to his neck as she felt the pressure begin to build in her stomach, her back arching and her hips meeting his thrust for thrust before finally stilling and his hips quivered and tried to push further into her, his hot, warm semen flooding inside her, and in the midst of his ecstasy his hand worked between their bodies, rubbing her over sensitized clit hard until her legs gripped him even harder and he felt her muscles clench around his softening dick, her scream muffled in his shoulder.
-end scene-
He had pulled out of her, and pulled her over on the bed…away from the wet spot they had created, he nuzzled into her shoulder, holding her to him…as if she may float away if he let go. He had laid his head down, resting on her shoulder and watching her chest softly rise and fall, his hand splayed across her belly, their legs tangled together intimately and he had fallen asleep like this. "Why?" he had whispered before he closed his eyes, his breathing slowly evening out. Mac had held him to her for an eternity, the occasional tear still leaking out.
"Because I love you." She had finally whispered into his hair, knowing from the shallow rise and fall of his chest
When she woke the next morning, he was already gone, the messed bed the only indication of what had happened that night. Her clothes were neatly folded, a note on top said she was free to use whatever was in fridge. At the bottom he had simply signed 'Harm'.
He had written a week later, email of course, chatting as if nothing had happened that night. He had been funny, open, teasing her even in print, but with every email and no mention of what happened, Mac had despaired, breaking down in a flood of tears in the middle of a trial. Bud, who was sitting second chair, had rushed to get Harriet, who led her straight to the girls bathroom and had a little heart to heart. Poor Bud had been left to explain to the judge why the prosecutor was now locked in a toilet, crying into some toilet paper. Harriet meanwhile had got the whole story from Mac, between heart wrenching sobs. It had been her who had first tentatively suggested that Mac might be pregnant, her increasing appetite, her tears over nothing…Mac had stilled for a moment, mentally counting backwards, before her gaze had snapped to Harriets', her answer evident in her eyes. Harriet had simply held onto Mac as a fresh wave of tears burst forth, trying to calm her as best she could whilst Mac had mumbled, 'my miracle' and 'damn him!' into her shoulder.
-end flashback-
"I was so…upset with you when you left. I tried to hate you Harm, god I tried so hard…but the minute I saw my…our…baby on the ultrasound machine, the little heart beating away." Mac paused, shaking her head for a minute. "I fell in love with you all over again."
"You…uhh…" Harm stuttered, shocked at her open admission.
"Yes I do Harm…I won't say it was from the moment I first met you. I don't even know when it happened, it was more like I just woke up one morning and realised that I didn't just 'love you', but was also 'in love' with you." Mac shrugged, she hadn't explained that very well, but neither of them were very good at talking about their emotions.
"I uhh…I mean…I do, er." Harm struggled to get the way he felt out, Mac however was having none of it, her finger came to rest over his lips, instantly shushing him.
"You don't have to tell me now, I don't want to force you into saying Harm. When you feel like telling me, tell me. But don't ever feel like you have to be pressured into saying it." Harm nodded in response to her words, tears threatening to spill from his eyes as he drew her into his embrace.
"I do too…you know." He whispered against her hair, his hands stroking her back through the material of the shirt. "I feel the same way…" he added as his hands worked up and to gently cup her face, his thumbs tracing over her lips gently, before covering them with his own, caressing her lips with his own, his tongue poking out to trace their lines, asking her for entrance, which she granted, opening her mouth slightly. It wasn't like last time, it was soft and gentle, loving, her hands smoothing over his skin, running through his hair…oh…so slowly, her nails scraping at the surface slightly. This time, their eyes didn't leave the others…they closed only to blink, his bright blue eyes slowly darkening to a midnight blue, her soft brown eyes darkening to an almost black hue.
Neither noticed how far it had gone until Mac's fingers were tugging his shirt free of his pants, and his were unbuttoning her shirt. "Mac…" he mumbled against her lips, trying to stop the low moan that escaped when her hands delved under his shirt. "I don't…I mean…is it okay?" he asked hesitantly, dropping his hand to cover her swollen belly, his fingers sweeping over the bump so softly…so gently, it brought tears to Macs eyes.
"Yeah…" she managed to choke out between sobs.
"Hey what's wrong?"
"Nothing…nothing is wrong…I'm just a little emotional at the moment." She swiped the tears away and gave him a reassuring smile, well what she hoped was reassuring.
"You know what, it's past midnight…I'm tired, and all I want to do is hold you in my arms." Harm told her earnestly, one hand splayed across her belly, the other reaching up to softly wipe away the last of her tears, smiling softly when she nodded. "I'll just get changed." He added softly, brushing across her lips gently.
Mac was already snuggled under the doona when Harm returned, wearing a pair of navy flannel pants with (and Mac had to giggle at this) white anchors on them. Pausing as he slipped in under the covers, an eyebrow raised in silent question he realised what it was that she was laughing at, he simply shrugged his shoulders and smiled sheepishly. It took some shifting, but once they were finally comfortable, Mac on her side, a pillow under her leg, and with Harm snuggled against her back, his warm breath washing over her skin, one harm stretched under her pillow, the other slow inching under her shirt to rest on her abdomen. Hearing her sigh, and feeling her body relaxing against his was perhaps the most perfect thing that he had heard…and felt in his life, until that moment. Suddenly, as if someone had switched a light on, Harm realised what he had to do to let go, properly…with things the way they were now, he was clinging on by his finger nails, and he knew that if he wanted everything that was being offered to him, he had to grab it with both hands. And that meant letting go. Of his fear, of his past…everything. He pulled Mad closer to his body.
"Mac?" he whispered into her ear, the hand on her belly stroking softly over her skin.
"mmm?" she answered tiredly, snuggling into his arms, enjoying the warmth and security that they provided her.
"I'm in love with you too Sarah." It was surprisingly easy actually, to let go. Especially when he had so much to grab hold off, Mac…a baby, his future. He already knew that if he did falter, if he did make a mistake, Mac would be there to guide him. And he would be there for her.
"Merry Christmas Harm." She finally said, and he realised something else as well, and he guessed it was rather symbolic in a way, his life had been put on hold on Christmas Eve, with his father going MIA, but last night and early into today, Christmas Day. He had got it all back, everything. He could stop running now, stop hiding from himself, he could start living his life now, because now he had something to hold on to. He had, for his whole life been holding onto a memory, something that had been barely there…a whisper…now he had a future to hold on to.
"Merry Christmas Mac." He responded quietly, kissing her softly behind her ear. Smiling against her hair, Harm snuggled against her, tangling his legs with hers, he was going to hold on to this with everything he had…and when he had his Marine in his arms, their baby in her belly, he was going to love every moment of holding on to this.
All done...maybe. If I have time, and my muse feels like it, might see if I can write up some Harm whumping by Harriet, AJ...Sturgis...oh my! lol. Hope you enjoyed, and would love...I repeat...LOVE to know what you all thought of it.


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MOBILE phones. We use them first thing in the morning, driving, on the toilet, at the dinner table, in bed. We can't get enough of them.
But now, a checkout worker has refused to serve a customer on her phone, sparking furious debate: Is it OK to use your mobile at the check-out?
The incident happened at a London supermarket, when 26-year-old Jo Clarke made a call to her brother while waiting in line at the checkout.
"I was standing at the foot of the (cash register) waiting to bag my shopping up, yet the lady on the checkout was just staring at me," Miss Clarke, who works in corporate real estate, told The Daily Mail.
"When I stopped my conversation and said 'Is everything okay?', she said: 'I will not check your shopping out until you get off your mobile phone.'
"I ended my call swiftly, and said to the lady on the checkout, 'Apologies, I didn't realise that it was Sainsbury's policy that you are unable to use your phone at the checkout', to which the checkout worker replied: 'You learn something new every day'."
Miss Clarke complained to the service desk at Sainsbury's over the incident and was told there was no such policy, as well as being reimbursed with vouchers for the store. However she swears she won't shop there anymore.
The incident has sparked plenty of debate online, with commenters divided on the issue.
"It was plain bad manners, there are self-serve checkouts for a reason. No wonder this country is in turmoil if we forget to use basic manners &reward the use of them" wrote Melissa Mackenna of Glasgow.
While others said "It's not your duty to make small talk with a checkout assistant? I was sure these comments would be pro-phones! Oh well. There's not enough time in the day for small talk. By all means don't be rude to the assistant but there's nothing wrong with being on the phone?!"
The issue also raised the hackles of Australian checkout workers. Karen Ritson, who works at Big W, said people chatting on their phone at the checkout was her pet hate.
"I think it's the height of ignorance. It really is. You're trying to engage with the customer even if it's just 'Hi how are you?' And they're chatting away and they throw the money at you and you think 'oh you pig'."
"I feel like saying 'Get off that phone before I serve you', but I'm not allowed to do that ... I wish we could, but you can't tell people get off the phone."
Ms Ritson said customers use mobiles through the checkout around two or three times per shift, and even more on the weekend.
"I just find it rude as you're doing them a service; it's not rocket science that they should appreciate that service," she said.
"Nothing is so important you can't wait five minutes."
Alayna Cole, 19, who works at Coles said mobile phones are often part of the "tearoom" discussion at her work, although there are plenty of different ways customers can be rude to workers.
"I'm trying to do a job, I'm a person. I'll say 'Hi how are you going?' And they won't say anything back. It might be because they're on the phone or it might be talking to the person next to them or they might just be staring at the wall behind me," she said.
However Ms Cole said it's not always the case, with some customers making an effort to apologise for being distracted.
"I've had a customer come in on the phone and come back five minutes later to apologise."
"If you have a good heart you find a way to make it not rude even though you are on the phone, you still say hello or you apologise," she said.
Australian Retailers Association spokesperson Russell Zimmerman said common courtesy is required from both sides of the equation.
"From a retailer's perspective, in this day and age when business is hard to get hold of, I would be reluctant to not serve a customer on that issue," he said. However he also added that if shoppers do get an urgent call, there is a right way to handle it.
"It's common courtesy to set the ground rules. You've got to judge the situation individually, the consumer has to be mindful of the sales assistant but the assistant has to be mindful that the consumer may need to take a call."
Do you use your mobile phone at the check-out? Tell us your views in the comments below.
208 comments on this story
- Weary of Sydney Posted at 03/07/2013 3:31pm
Arrogant people simply don't have the brains to realise how irritating and rude they are. The woman's a spoilt self-important snob who had her rudeness pointed out to her, was compensated despite not deserving a cent, then still had to whinge. Got a newsflash for ya lady - get rid of your phone, there isn't a single person on the planet who wants to talk to a person like you.
- Daz of Melbourne Posted at 03/07/2013 3:31pm
Good on the check out lady. That just shows the person on the phone doesn't respect the job that she's doing.
- dave of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:31pm
you are getting paid, deal with it.
- Jayna of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:32pm
When I worked in retail, I remember being SO MAD at myself for serving customers who were on their phone, because I was too chicken not to. It's been quite a few years since I was in retail, but I haven't forgotten. I will never, ever ignore a person who is serving me. I will always ask how they are. They are PEOPLE. More of this. Deny them service until they put it down. If you are someone who does this - you have no idea how rude you are being! Power to the check out people!
- Robert of Tasmania Posted at 03/07/2013 3:32pm
We have a business and we tell customers we will serve them when they have finished on the phone or to step aside for someone else.
- Skye C of hobart Posted at 03/07/2013 3:33pm
I've had to be on the phone while being served. HOWEVER: I'll always quickly apologise to the sale assistant, and give them eye contact when handing over payment and thank them afterwards...usually with a 'IM SO SORRY IM ON THE PHONE RIGHT NOW....UGHHHHH' look on my face. Sales assistance are there to help and serve you. To not apologise the fact you are not acknowledging their work is just rude.
- laura of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:33pm
maybe if checkout operators didn't ignore you to chat with their favourite customer in front of you and take ages doing their shop ring up, or worse talk to each other whilst serving you, we wouldn't think it was ok to use our phones. I would never START a call at the checkout, but if i was on one when i got there, i would still make a point of talking to the operator, and not completely ignoring them. there are ways to do this politely.
- Phone Hater of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:33pm
It's the height of rudeness, get off the damn thing and concentrate on what you are there for. You can always make or take that call when you are walking back to your car.
- colin brame of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:35pm
It is about time that common decency and manners came back, yes it is rude to be on the phone and expect someone to be a mind reader trying to serve you. You have fronted the store so be considerate of the staff working there. Mobile phones are a drug these days, not a helpful tool that they were designed for.
- Dan of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:35pm
Don't call them 'pigs'. Pigs are much better behaved. Same goes for wankers who use their phone on the bus/train; no one cares about your sad life or who you caught your VD from. Show some respect for yourself (and others).
- Jaryd of Melbourne Posted at 03/07/2013 3:35pm
Yes. Get off the phone and show some respect to the people who are assisting you at whatever store you are in. They are not your servants and you should never treat them like they are beneath you, which is exactly what you do when you show them that they are so unimportant that you can't get off the phone. And no, I don't work in retail. I just have manners.
- Mark of Brisbane Posted at 03/07/2013 3:35pm
I don't use my phone when making a purchase, its a bit rude I think. That said, my number 1 pet peeve is when you are in shop trying to get help and the assistant walks away to answer the shop phone. Why is the person on the phone more important than the person in the shop trying to buy something? It just staggers me how often this happens.
- Cranky of the internetz Posted at 03/07/2013 3:35pm
Just buy a hip mounted mobile phone jammer from China...cone of silence for 20m around you :)
- Sydneygirl of sydney Posted at 03/07/2013 3:36pm
It is simply good manners to, at the very least, put your call on 'hold' while at a checkout. Bakers Delight refuses to serve customers who are on their phones. If you don't know what good manners are then perhaps it's time to learn.
- giggley of Bris Vegas Posted at 03/07/2013 3:36pm
I am sure that if the checkout chick had been on her mobile phone chatting while Jo Clarke was trying to pay for her shopping it would have been a different tune being sung by Jo!
- skelly of Sydney Posted at 03/07/2013 3:36pm
I so agree. This is a no brainer. Would you like someone to chat away on a phone while you serve them, then have them throw money at you as if you don't exist. No one would. It's just plain ignorance and I wish stores would man up an put a no-phone policy in place, and enforce the basic manners that people just dont seem to have. Good on this assistant for standing up for what is clearly ignorant arrogant behaviour. And how this girl can complain is beyond me. If you don't know by now, you have no courtesy or respect and need to learn basic consideration.
- Cranky X Gen of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:36pm
Of course its rude to be on the phone while being served by somebody at the checkout! Just as it is rude to be on the phone while getting a manicure, during a travel consultation, an appointment with your accountant or during a gyno examination. Where is the common sense and common decency? We live in a society for goodness sake. As soon as robots can perform these functions, feel free to use your phones, in the meantime get some bloody manners people.
- Joe of Sydney Posted at 03/07/2013 3:37pm
You should communicate with the check-out person before they start scanning, and when you're paying/leaving. In between, when the person is focusing on scanning and bagging everything, you can talk on your phone. It's like getting your car serviced; they're both services, one just is more common the other and takes places faster.
- John of Brisbane Posted at 03/07/2013 3:37pm
I own & run a company & we do have a policy of we will not serve customers who are on the phone, even as far as if we are in discussion & the customer takes a call we walk away & start doing other things we do not have time for the rudness of people, they can take there business elswhere as far as I am concerned, we treat you with respect & we expect the same. They are not curing, it is OK to let your phone ring without answering it. You got a phone for your convenience don't let the phone become your master. Business is tough but ethics are tougher.
- Observer of Sydney Posted at 03/07/2013 3:37pm
She was being rude, talking while at the check out. These are human beings who are slowly being replaced with machines. Then everyone complains how automated we are and there is no customer service. It's important to say hello, how are you and acknowledge that there is a real person in front of you. Whether you are getting in a cab, getting on a bus or being served at a shop....stop and let that person know that their good service means something or people are just not going to care and then we will have people going on about how rude customer service is these days. It doesn't take much to excuse yourself to the person on the phone for a few moments and then resume your conversation once you have gotten through the service desk. You were shown up for what you really are and upstart, rude individual and now everyone knows what a twat you are. Shame on her for going to the manager. I hope the woman at the cash register didn't get fired.
- Alan of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:38pm
I find the "we" offence. This article patronises everyone, but not all of us are addicted and obsessed with these gadgets. Many of us don't have one or only a simple pre-paird. Second, yes, I'm annoyed too when waiting in line and you've all those "busy" and "important" people in front of you trying to unload a trolley single handed, and then hold up the check-out because they can't manage to get the money out. I believe the supermarkets has acted wrong in even rewarding that ignorant customer. Obviously the girl at the check-out did not mention the word "policy". I find people being constantly on the phone, even in banks, doctor's surgeries or post offices, public transport or simply at the supermarket ignorant and addicted and without manners. I wonder how they coped with life before the mobile was invented. One of my biggest pet hates is people trying to board public transport and then don't have their fare or card handy because they're busy on the phone, hold up the bus whilst trying to scramble the fare together, but don't even have the courtesy to end the call. I've missed connections because such addicts. Or those who discuss loudly business matters no one is interested in.
- Amy of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:39pm
Manners just don't seem to be used anywhere anymore. I am guilty of using my phone a lot more than is probably needed, but the person serving you is still a person and deserves to be acknowledged as one.
- Joe of Melbourne Posted at 03/07/2013 3:39pm
If i happen to be on the phone when its my turn at the checkout i will always hang up or put the phone down until the operator is finished. I think it is highly rude and leaving who ever i am speaking with hanging for a couple of minutes or calling them back is just manners.
- Sandj of Cottesloe Posted at 03/07/2013 3:40pm
It is just bad manners. If someone is servng you, no matter where it is... you should treat people with respect.
- Andrew of Regional NSW Posted at 03/07/2013 3:40pm
I work in retail sales. I won't serve anyone who is on the phone, and if you answer your phone while I am talking to you or serving you I will walk away from you. I've got better things to do, like serve the next customer.
- Frank of Ingle Farm of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:41pm
well done to the check out girl People are just rude these days and think the world revolves around them Should be more of this tpe of thing including in restaruants etc
- Liz of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:41pm
It's rude. Plain and simple. Before mobile phones, you wouldn't just continue chatting to whoever was with you at the checkout, completely ignoring the person trying to attend to you. However, as soon as it's through a phone connection, people think it's okay. Well, it's not. I sometimes answer the phone when in the queue but will tell the person who's calling that I have to go and will ring them back later before I reach the front of the queue.
- Mrs Morris of Hills District Posted at 03/07/2013 3:41pm
In my opinion is a common courtesy of respecting people include those check-out person who serve you. If you think is such a bother to engage other then use the self check-out as your option. Unless that mobile phone call is a life and death matter situation for you to stay on - which I would not think so!
- Crazymumwhohatesshopping of alloverSydney Posted at 03/07/2013 3:43pm
As a busy mum - usually have the kids with me at check out - even if my phone rings (Could be my parents who are disabled in their home) - I don't have any spare hands to answer the phone at the checkout. I am trying to: unload / reload trolley, hold one child from touching lollies display, hold other child in the trolley, be friendly with checkout chick, find my credit and rewards cards in my wallet, and make sure she packs fruit / frozen / meats separately. I wish I had a spare hand to answer my phone - might be someone offering to the do the grocery shopping for me... lol :-)
- We're all busy of At the checkout. Posted at 03/07/2013 3:43pm
Dear Karen Ritson from Australian check-out workers, Yes you are doing us a service but incase you haven't noticed you are also getting paid. SO if I don't wish to engage with you, or I choose to talk on my phone. Just suck it up and be thankful you have a job.
- Kaz of Ipswich Posted at 03/07/2013 3:44pm
I agree with the check out operator - "Nothing is so important you can't wait five minutes."
- ? of here Posted at 03/07/2013 3:44pm
No, I certainly don't. It means that you are a self centred, inconsiderate, arrogant pig.
- Terry of Sydney Posted at 03/07/2013 3:45pm
Totally agree with the check out operator. It is rude. I know of a number of businesses some are even take away food outlets that have signs up advising that they will not serve you if you are talking on or using a mobile phone. Like driving, it could be very dangerous ordering your fish & chips while using a mobile phone........
- Andrew of Gold Coast Posted at 03/07/2013 3:45pm
It does work both ways however. I've been to the Woolworths Express lane where the cashier spent the whole transaction speaking to the person beside them. The only words I got from them was the amount I needed to pay. If they're not going to end their conversation am I expected to end mine?
- aussie bob of Brisbane Posted at 03/07/2013 3:45pm
let's look at it this way, If I was working a checkout while talking on my mobile phone, using a hands free devise so I could still easily perform my task would you as a customer think I was being rude? It must go both ways.
- James of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:45pm
Talking on your phone at the checkout is rude. It is the height of arrogance. There is nothing more annoying than listening to a one sided conversation at close quarters, especially next to strangers. Texting and scrolling through your phone while waiting in line is fine and can actually reduce awkwardness in the line, but talking on your phone is just plain rude and shows ignorance or a complete lack of care.
- Jason of Adelaide Posted at 03/07/2013 3:46pm
"Nothing is so important you can't wait five minutes." Hahaha you know, if my clients didn't call I would never walk through a check out while on the phone. Invariably when I do do this it's because (major tech catastrophe) has occurred and I'm rushing out to go fix it. If I had two hands free to do self service, I'd probably do that.
- JT of qld Posted at 03/07/2013 3:46pm
People need to disconnect from their phones, it's rediculous, i stopped in starbucks in the city the other day and looked aqround, everyone was on their phones staring at them like robots, it's rediculous. People need to go back to the real world and actually interact with each other instead of constantly being hooked to technology, i don't get it.
- Scott of Australia Posted at 03/07/2013 3:46pm
Absolutely agree with the retailer here. Everyone who works in the service industry will surely agree. We work hard at delivering a positive experience, whatever you are purchasing from us. The least you can do is acknowledge it. The phone call, or the person on the other end, wont mind waiting..
- Keith of Adelaide, South Australia Posted at 03/07/2013 3:46pm
It goes to show the self absorbed society a lot of people are falling into. Have respect for the human being that is serving you. Have respect for other human beings period! They are doing their job and being polite to you so make the time and effort and be polite in return. Be sincere when you say THANK YOU! Life exists away from your 'smart' phone, your apps and social media contacts.
- A Dempsey of Sunshine Coast Posted at 03/07/2013 3:48pm
That is rude, also people on the phone on public transport.
- Not that Important of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:48pm
Totally rude to expect to be served whilst on the phone. If the call is that important, finish it before going into the store or if you are in the store, let it go to message bank. We have a no service policy if you are on the phone in my business. If a customer comes into my store & I am on the phone, I end my call immediatley.
- Sally of brisbane Posted at 03/07/2013 3:48pm
If I am on the phone when I reach the checkouts, I do try and get off the phone, if I canât finish the call I would normally apologise & acknowledge the person behind the check out. I would not be offended if someone refuses to serve me while I am on the phone, unless obviously they were rude about it themselves.
- Craig - Bowen Hills of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:49pm
I manage a shop and have signs asking customers to refrain from using their phone and explain that if they choose to take a phone call they are also chosing to move to the back of the line,, It's only fair on my staff and the other customers who are polite enough to not use their phone while interacting face to face with another human being.
- 18yo Keiran Humpherson of Australia Posted at 03/07/2013 3:49pm
I used to work at Liquorland, recently quit as i'm going overseas, and this sort of this happens fairly often. My colleagues and i hate it when people come to the register on their phone and either throw money at us or a bit of plastic. It's plain rude and there should be a policy put in place for workers to not serve someone while on the phone. I have served a few people who as soon as they get to the register they say to the other end of the line that they will call back and apologize to me. This definitely makes me want to give them the best possible service and engage with the customer. It's a matter of etiquette and manners.
- Chris of Bunbury West Aust Posted at 03/07/2013 3:49pm
As a manager in customer service I have encouraged my staff to do exactly this. It is the height of rudness to ignore the hard working person behind the counter. All to often people treat you like dirt, the same ones no doubt that complain when thier idea of recieving good customer is not realised. Its about time the workers stood up to be counted, they are people with feelings too.
- Roy Fox of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:50pm
Some people have become obsessed with their mobile phone..."oh my God'...I missed a call. Personally I refuse to go out to dinner with anyone who insists on having their mobile phone with them and takes calls or 'texts' during dinner. It is, in my opinion, the height of ignorance.
- DexteR of adelaide Posted at 03/07/2013 3:50pm
This happens to everyone. I often have clients take phone calls when in meetings with me I just sit back and smile. I charge $200 per hour so if you want to talk on the phone I will happily sit there and make money:)
- Laura of Melbourne Posted at 03/07/2013 3:50pm
There's no excuse for being rude, and it's nice to have some reciprocal respect; sales staff shouldn't really answer the phone in front of a customer. If the call is that important, individuals should step away and out of the queue to allow other people to be served. If not, call the person back after the transaction is complete.
- Random internet guy of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:50pm
Mobile phones are such a joke, everyone has been convinced they have to be contactable everywhere all the time, as they are all so important. I have a mobile phone a cheap non smart (savant?) one and turn the damn thing off when at work and on public transport, I hate being contactable and very rarely use it.
- pat of Eudunda Posted at 03/07/2013 3:50pm
No way , , just plain rude .
- Paul Williamson of Adelaide Posted at 03/07/2013 3:50pm
News flash: You are not that important. You're call can wait!
- Wade from Adelaide of Adelaide Posted at 03/07/2013 3:50pm
Do you know what is the height of rudeness? When I go up to the express counter and all the staff are chattering amongst themselves and ignoring the customers! There should be a mutual respect, but also the staff need to remember that it's the customers that really pay their wages. If one of your customers has a call he's on, should he not be able to buy from your store until he's finished the call? It could be classed as rude, but in the same way of thinking, just sitting watching TV while watching a cleaner you've paid scrub your floors is rude.
- Frank of Ingle Farm of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:50pm
should be done more often Its a pain standing there waiting till they finish call before they even think about paying Must cost the company a lot of money in lost time when girl has to saty at till longer than necessary many times
- Al of Melbourne Posted at 03/07/2013 3:51pm
What if you are in conversation with someone else at the checkout. Should that conversation be halted so that meaningless pleasantries can be exchanged? I agree that it is slightly rude and she was only on the phone to her brother but it may have been an urgent or important call.
- Bring back the good manners of Brisbane Posted at 03/07/2013 3:51pm
It takes very little to treat people with respect, including those who serve you at the checkout. You know that when you're at the checkout they're going to ask you how your day is (with varying levels of enthusiasm, granted) and at some stage you'll have to discuss payment and throwing cash or a card at someone because they're not worthy of your good manners or respect is not uncommon. I used to work on checkouts during uni, and when customers were rude, I would always say 'thank you, you too.' when they hadn't bothered to say anything at all. 9 times out of 10 the guilt tripped worked. Or, I gave all the change in coins even when I had a register full of notes, packed bread under a mountain of cans etc. It didn't bring out the best side of me!
- JohnG of Woy Woy Posted at 03/07/2013 3:51pm
The absolute height of bad manners. Seems to be a generational thing. I certainly wont serve anyone until I have their undivided attention, and if they don't like it ? yep you guessed it.....
- MM of Melbourne, Australia Posted at 03/07/2013 3:51pm
I love Jo Clarke. We need her on public transport systems, in restaurants, in university lectures and tutorials (and that's for starters) - oh, and picture theaters, plays and more! Let's clone Jo !!! Give her a pay rise immediately !!! Touché Jo and others like her. Employers get with the program - 'man' up! Or, 'woman' up !!!
- Johnny of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:52pm
There is nothing wrong with this form of multi tasking especially if you have been waiting to be served for 10 minutes because the supermarket does not have enough checkouts open. Frankly a nod of recognition should be enough.
- Dan of Nowhere Posted at 03/07/2013 3:52pm
Its the absolute height of rudeness and a perfect illustration of the lack of manners most people have nowadays. And before you think I'm some old fuddy-duddy I'm 33.
- People are so rude of Melbourne Posted at 03/07/2013 3:53pm
It's just plain rude...have some respect people. (No, I don't work in a retail environment).
- John From The City of Queanbeyan Posted at 03/07/2013 3:53pm
I've seen checkout staff deliberately stuff up transactions for mobile phone users to get them off the phone and to actually engage. I agree their use in checkouts is the height of retail rudeness and I fully support any worker who makes life difficult for these rude arrogant people.
- Flossy of Queensland Posted at 03/07/2013 3:54pm
I completely agree that it is rude to talk on your phone while being served at a checkout. As a customer we expect that the person on the other side of the counter is completely focused on giving us good customer service and doing their job to the best of their ability. Why is it that we cannot be courteous in return and for little more than five minutes of our busy lives? Are we really that ignorant? If I am in the queue behind someone on the phone I hope that the cashier will be brave enough to stand up to that rude person and tell them to step aside until they have finished their oh-so-important conversation. And how ridiculous that the customer who complained should then be given vouchers as a reward for their bad manners!
- Bobby of Melbourne Posted at 03/07/2013 3:54pm
To all the check out chicks complaining, you'll understand when you have a real job. Work comes before small talk. I'm doing my job - you do yours.
- FuzionMan of Sydney Posted at 03/07/2013 3:54pm
What about cashiers who answer calls and talk on the telephone while they are processing payment for customers? This happens all the time! Now... how is it that nobody's saying that's just as rude?
- JG of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:54pm
Ignorant is the right word. But it applies equally to shop assistants who try and serve you while they are on the phone (or having a conversation with another assistant).
- Craig of Sydney Posted at 03/07/2013 3:55pm
Hey your a checkout chick get over it, if i get put in that situation i'll just leave the stuff at the checkout and walk away, im paying you to do a service i dont want to be ur friend. I have abandoned shopping at the till in the past when the checkout chick was more interested in talking to her friend one isle over on the next till, again im PAYING u for a service.
- Fitzy of Ashgrove Posted at 03/07/2013 3:56pm
Could not agree more! People are so self absorbed these days. It is common courtesy to address the person you are dealing with in a retail environment and when you are on your phone you are nothing but a snob just like the poster dave whose intellectual comment was "you are getting paid, deal with it.".
- Tarzmahal of Adelaide Posted at 03/07/2013 3:56pm
Rude? Shop assistants are paid to make small talk because it keeps the customer happy. If shutting up and putting a sale through is what the customer wants, then do that instead. I have worked in retail for 10 years. Any check out attendant that finds mobile phone usage offensive needs to remember why they're there. The customer is always right and you are there to make their shopping experience as pleasant as possible. And you know what? Being a working/studying mum has taught me that sometimes that phone call can't wait 5 minutes just in case I might offend the the check out attendant. Plus lets face it, I'd rather they remain on the phone then make awkward small talk. If I hear one more joke from a customer about how their savings account should be called 'spendings' (yeah I've heard it before, in fact multiple times a day, it's NOT funny) I'm going to neck myself.
- Trish of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:57pm
NO !!!!!!!!! People have gone mobile-crazy....using them whilst driving, in cafe's at check-outs, Please we do not want to listen to your private conversations. Turn the damn thing off and show some manners!
- Coookie of The Valley Posted at 03/07/2013 3:58pm
What's there to debate? Being rude is being rude. Just because everyone has a mobile, doesn't mean that it's acceptable to use it whenever and wherever you want. Once again, manners are as rare as common sense.
- Jess of Essendon Posted at 03/07/2013 3:58pm
Its about the customer. That's why retail is dying and online thriving ... you forget who the customer is
- Linda of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:58pm
Mobile phones are controlling people's lives where they think they will miss out on something when in actual truth they miss out on what is going on around them because they are distracted by it. Good on those who work in customer service for refusing to serve them until they get off the damn things. We survived without them before they became a fashion necessity & people have panic attacks over not having it with them. Have to ask if they are not suffering from mental health issues by not being able to cope without a phone on hand on at all times. I have mobile phones because they are intrusive where people will call you at any time of day for trivial things, maybe they need to get a life.
- Mick of Posted at 03/07/2013 3:59pm
Years ago working as a male "checkout chick", a customer with a massive trolley load was on her phone and failed to acknowlegde me. I pressed on and did my job, since you don't have much power to complain in the lowest of the low jobs in society. I was 3/4 of the way though packing her groceries when she says "what are you doing, I brought my own bags" (although she hadn't given them to me). She abused me, made a scene, and muttered under her breath about how useless I was as I unpacked and repacked every item in her trolley. So after that I'd refuse to do anything for someone on a phone until they acknowledged me first. I'm sure the worker in this story had a similar reason for her actions
- Thomas Rogers of Brisbane, Australia Posted at 03/07/2013 3:59pm
I'm all for the check out lady, if I was there, I would have clapped for her! Being on the phone whilst someone serves you is saying, whether consciously or subconsciously, "you are not important enough to converse with or appreciate". Haven't worked retail since Uni days but hate it just as much.
- GlendaSings of Canberra Posted at 03/07/2013 3:59pm
I have taken calls my phone at the checkout on a few occasions - when it's a call I've been waiting for (tradesman, my boss) or my kids. In every case, I've asked the caller to wait, and apologised to the cashier, then returned to the call - and then again, asked the caller to wait while I pay the cashier. I think that it's OK when it has to happen, but you should definitely take the time to acknowledge the cashier and apologise.
- Daniel of Muchea Posted at 03/07/2013 3:59pm
I run on a system i'll always try my best to answer my phone, when i'm at work i will note down all my missed calls and call them back at a later time that i'm not busy
- MJ of Posted at 03/07/2013 4:00pm
I think a big part of your opinion on this is whether you've worked in retail before and experienced it. I only worked in retail while I was studying, but I still remember how rude it is when people just ignore you. These days, being the customer, I just say to whoever I'm talking to, 'oi, I'm at the checkout, call you back in two minutes' and hang up. The saddest part is the emphatic thanks that some retail employees give when I do this. They shouldn't have to thank someone just for treating them with everyday courtesy and respect.
- Caroline of Brisbane Posted at 03/07/2013 4:01pm
I've used my phone at the check-out but I've usually tried to end the call or tell the person on the other end to hold one as i'm being served and then i'll apologise for being on the call. They might be serving us but there people a smile or a hello goes a long way, then again the check out people that look as though they could give two sh!ts about serving me they usually get a very bright annoying hello from me - customer service is a fun game for both.
- JMO of Newcastle Posted at 03/07/2013 4:01pm
When the checkout operator pays for my time and is responsible for my life then they can make a judgement about what I should be doing with my phone. Until then, how about they mind their own business and do the job they are paid to do.
- Dave of Melbourne Posted at 03/07/2013 4:02pm
It is rude. If you're chatting on the phone at the checkout, you're basically telling them that they're beneath you and not worthy of your time. Meanwhile they're just trying to make some money like the rest of us. I usually try and avoid the self-checkouts, I dont want people to be replaced by robots.
- jimmy p of Posted at 03/07/2013 4:03pm
Is this serious? Haha, checkout workers aren't in the job to do their community a service, they're there earning a living like everyone else who works. The customer isn't there to chat with the checkout worker. They're there to buy things, not to put their life on hold. If you want more respect, be an efficient worker. I hope she got fired
- Paul of Perth Posted at 03/07/2013 4:03pm
Just because you are paying for a service does not mean you can't have manners. I have gone through checkouts numerous times with a mobile phone, but each time I have apologised up front and ended the conversation. It's just good manners, or have we all forgotten what that is? No I'm not some old fuddy duddy... I am a young father with respect for others around me, no matter what their occupation.
- Moo of Posted at 03/07/2013 4:04pm
TRUE STORY: I was in the checkout, waiting to be served and my mobile rang. I quickly answered it to say I was busy, but it was my Mum ringing to say my Dad just passed away. I was speaking in a hushed voice to my Mum and just as I reached the checkout the assistant said to me "Can you please get off that phone because it's VERY RUDE". I told my Mum to hold on and told the assistant that it was a call to say my Dad just died and to get the hell over herself. I walked out without my shopping. Don't just ASSUME every person on their mobile is deliberately being ignorant.
- SS of Posted at 03/07/2013 4:05pm
It is the way of the world today. No manners. People who walk around with a phone attached to their ear are feral. Those who think it is ok are also feral. It is called manners people something that your parents if they where not also feral would have taught you.
- Michelle of Sydney Posted at 03/07/2013 4:06pm
I went to the convenience store this morning and the cashier was on her mobile arranging a quote for a new fence. She scanned the oj and put her hand out for the money. No hi, hello, how are you. Barely any recognition. Actually I would also like a pack of smokes, she said to the phone 'hang on,' put it down and then served me while looking really annoyed that I'd disrupted her conversation. I also used to be a checkout chick, what made the job bearable was interacting with customers. The things you hear are fantastic. Especially from the older customers. You get your regulars, and you can hear someone's life story in six minutes while you scan their dog food and toilet paper. Granted those people probably need professional help, but sometimes the checkout person is the best they can afford. A checkout person isn't a machine, they are a person and they deserve recognition and at the very least, eye contact, a smile and a thank you.
- Vicki of Sydney of Posted at 03/07/2013 4:06pm
Newsflash - No one else wants to hear how self-important you are, let alone get stuck near you in line!! Totally rude manners & inconsiderate! A lady behind me in the checkout queue was using her phone, yattering about her life at the top of her lungs & then asked me if she could go in front as she was very busy & needed to be elsewhere in a hurry - I said "no" - she was angry - I didn't care; I'd heard enough from her by then!
- Pacolli of Perth Posted at 03/07/2013 4:07pm
A little respect goes a long way, it seems that Australians are losing the ability to be polite and respectful and Bobby of Melbourne you seem to fall into that category. What a rude thing for you to say. Cashiers are working in a service industry that has no control over rude, belligerent and disrespectful customers, there's been many times when I have wanted to take someones phone out of their hands and turn it off, a few minutes to pay your bill and get out of the store is all it takes. And no Bobby I am not a cashier, I'm a busy Mum who hates being held up in line waiting for someone to get off their phone and show respect to the person who is serving them. What a terrible example that store has set by giving that rude and ignorant woman vouchers. Bring back the good old days of decent manners.
- Me Too of Ascot Posted at 03/07/2013 4:07pm
It's perfectly acceptable to refuse to serve people who are too rude to get off their mobile phone. I wish refusing service was the norm and offenders were sent to the back of the line. Workers in customer service deserve basic respect and simple manners and are not paid enough to be on the receiving end of lazy bad behaviour.
- Puh-lease of Posted at 03/07/2013 4:07pm
So NOW retail people want to engage with us? Funny, I actually call people when I'm being served so I can have an excuse to ignore the bored look on the retails assistants face whilst they gossip to their co-worker about their love life. Amazing.
- mmg of Around Here Posted at 03/07/2013 4:08pm
My phone is always on silent [vibration on] so that I can choose to answer it if I want or ignore it without drawing attention to myself. If it is important, a message will be left and I will get back to whoever it was in due course. Sometimes I don't notice the vibration but that is no big deal either as the same applies - if it is important a message will be left.
- Matt of NSW Posted at 03/07/2013 4:08pm
Unless it's an important phone call it's rude. Treating a person like they don't exist and throwing money at them without acknowledging their presence is demeaning and borderline sociopathic. Responses here are quite revealing.
- Toni of NSW Posted at 03/07/2013 4:09pm
I totally agree, unless someone is dying on the other end of that phonecall, it can wait. I won't serve anyone if they are on their phone, I think it's the height of rudeness. But the same goes for people who serve me and have conversations with others or are on the phone, I always like to make a sarcastic comment if that happens. We just need to have some common decent manners. Treat others the same way as you would like to be treated.
- Some person of Posted at 03/07/2013 4:11pm
I built a Faraday Cage around my shop for the sole purpose of blocking mobile phone signals, people just think its a dead spot, which I suppose it is :). A few observant people have asked what's the mesh around the shop for and I say "oh its modern art"
- Sarah of Melbourne of Posted at 03/07/2013 4:12pm
So the customer was rewarded with vouchers for their rudeness? What a joke.
- Sam Spade of Perth Posted at 03/07/2013 4:12pm
Moo - I'm betting you did NOT know that you father had passed when you picked up the phone. If you knew he was dying, why were you shopping?
- Lawrence of chatswood Posted at 03/07/2013 4:14pm
Should we all get used to be multi-tasked? but need to be in style and not to bother other too much.
- Rob of Adelaide Posted at 03/07/2013 4:14pm
Part of the reason this story is really big in the UK - not sure why it's taken off here - is the UK still have a HUGE class culture. A checkout girl, even if she's a PhD student Olympic gold medallist in the rest of her time, is a servant. Servants don't tell masters what to do. It's why the UK is such a toxic place to live, and why we all move here.
- Am of Sydney Posted at 03/07/2013 4:16pm
With the growing popularity of self serve checkouts in supermarkets (including Sainsburys), she should be glad to have a job and just serve the customers. "Thank you for shopping at Sainsburys." Self serve checkouts can often be a lot more polite than people.
- YES TO MANNERS of Posted at 03/07/2013 4:16pm
The height of rudeness! Just ask the person on the call to hold or you will call them back. I have done that when standing in line, i will say, i'm about to be served, i'll call you back. Simple Manners!


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This section covers the basics of the job search process with insights on career planning and how the Michael Page team can assist you in finding your next role.
Taking the time to match your skills, personality and aspirations to a potential job is crucial in finding a role that will suit you. Working in a job you love greatly increases your chances of long-term career success and satisfaction, so it's important to make the right decision.
A succinct, detailed career plan is one of the most useful tools you can use to identify where you are, where you want to be and how to get there.
The role of a recruitment consultant is to facilitate the best possible match between you and a potential employer.
As a recent university graduate, taking the first steps toward a new career is an exciting and rewarding experience, provided you are prepared, focused and flexible in your approach. Here are some practical suggestions to help you make a smooth and successful transition from school to the workforce.
An increasing number of employers are using social networking sites and online search engines to research job applicants. Similar to your resume, your online profile creates an image of you to a potential employer, so it is critical to make sure you make a good impression on anyone who discovers you online. Consider these tips to help manage and protect your online reputation.
Finding a new job can be extremely challenging – and lengthy, even for the most experienced professional.
There are many different factors at play during a hiring process as every job application, interview and rejection/success will be unique.
Employers are increasingly using social media channels to screen potential new employees. Whether you're an avid user of social media or not, it will likely play a role in your job search.
Today's job seekers are increasingly using blogs and personal websites to further market their expertise and enhance their online brand.
Internships provide a great opportunity to gain commercial experience and learn new skills. Participants who stand out and display a genuine capacity for a role may be able to turn their interning experience into a job offer.


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Carhartt CHB610DTCS
Carhartt Ironside - Clear Anti-Fog Lens with Black Frame
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dweebnoun [ C ]uk /dwiːb/ us /dwiːb/ US slang disapproving
› a person who is physically and socially awkward and has little confidence:
What a dweeb! Why doesn't she dump him?
Thesaurus: synonyms and related words
(Definition of "dweeb" from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus © Cambridge University Press)
(Definition of "dweeb" from the Cambridge Academic Content Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)
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Word of the Day
friendly and pleasant to be with


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Independent Bank
- CCedar Springs Community Library is paid-in-fullcedarspringspost.com
- Shelby County Mortgage Market Sees 14 Percent Gain in Maymemphisdailynews.com
- CDistribution wire burns, causes power outagecedarspringspost.com
- Banister joins Independent Bank's Lapeer teamthecountypress.mihomepaper.com
- CHometown Happeningscedarspringspost.com
- Kevin Neumeyer joins The State Bank as commercial lending market managertricountycitizen.mihomepaper.com
- C5th annual quilt show for librarycedarspringspost.com
- Local Mortgage Market Closes Out Strong 2016memphisdailynews.com
- TSmall towns, big deeds: Tuscola toy drives carry ontuscolatoday.com
- MApple cider & doughnuts anyone?mcp.mihomepaper.com
- TTri-County Bank moves into Tuscola County, banking returns to Kingstontuscolatoday.com
- Mortgage Market Up 13 Percent in Septembermemphisdailynews.comMemphis , New York , Shelby , Lower Austria
- CMeet Randy VanDuyn: New Red Flannel Festival Presidentcedarspringspost.com
- CSand Lake Bank robbery suspect arrested after crashing carcedarspringspost.com
- Robber in high-speed chase 'deliberately' crossed center line before fiery crash, FBI saysmlive.comMichigan , Kent , Northland , Sand Lake , Grand Rapids
- Vehicle pursued by police crashes, at least one injuredmlive.com
- Guaranty Bank buying into Denton growthbizjournals.com
- Mortgage Market Sees 8 Percent Gain in Junememphisdailynews.com
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John Denver - Country Roads - Live In England 1986
Release Date: 08 March 2010 | Certificate: To Be Announced
£7.59 includes FREE UK Postage (other delivery options available)
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The late, great country legend John Denver is captured here live in performance from his 1986 tour of the United Kingdom. Tracks include 'Farewell Andromeda', 'Take Me Home Country Roads', 'Sunshine On My Shoulders', 'Calypso', 'Eagle And The Hawk', 'Dreamland Express', and many more.
Release Date: 08 March 2010
Certificate: tba - To Be Announced
Region 0
Sound: Dolby Digital
Production Year: 1986
Main Language: English
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Catalogue No: EREDV798


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Call our experts: 888.808.FINE
Shop Personalized StationeryCarlson Craft Wedding Invitations Customize any Address Stamp to match your style!
Select a quantity and printing method. Changes are easily made later.
This layered invitation highlights the city of Boston by featuring the city skyline printed in navy ink and accented by a clover green border. An indigo backer card adds an extra touch of depth to complete the look.


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Developed for anglers that enjoy the longest "in-the-zone" drifts possible. Center Pin fishing is not a new phenomenon but it is being rediscovered throughout the steelhead world. Imagine 100-yard (or longer), drag-free "drift" at an even depth. This style of fishing takes a rod with good length and balance. It also requires a medium action and full-flexing power to handle big fish in strong currents, but not so stiff the longer lever pulls your hook free. At 13 feet and a four-piece design for ease of travel, there is no better Center Pin rod available. Let's "free spool!"
PIN Rods feature:


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It only takes a minute to get started. Fill out our uncomplicated sign up form and login to the site.
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Adopted April 2012
Position Statement
The Geological Society of America (GSA) supports planetary exploration to advance research concerning the evolution of Earth; to deepen and expand human understanding of our place in the universe; to reinforce science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education and effective training of the next generation of scientists; to increase U.S. competitiveness in science and technology development; and to enhance the quality of life through technological innovation.
This position statement (1) summarizes the relevance and benefits of planetary exploration to national and international leadership in science and technology research, development, and education; (2) describes workforce development and the key role that geoscientists play in both historical and future exploration missions through continued civilian exploration programs; and (3) provides recommendations for policy decisions related to the importance of science support for both U.S. and international collaborative space exploration missions to the Moon and to other solar system bodies beyond Earth.
Early planetary exploration missions (including the first human explorations on the Moon) were initially designed as demonstrations of technology development and global leadership in space. While science was a tertiary objective, the underlying science was inherently geologic and geophysical in nature. Through 50 years of space exploration, planetary exploration missions have supported a growing population of planetary scientists along with an increasing appeal to students, especially those in geology classes. Over this time, the U.S. and other nations have launched many successful exploration missions to planets, moons, comets, and other objects throughout the solar system, including returning samples of solar wind particles, asteroids, and comets to Earth. Today, planetary missions are designed to collect data to better understand the history and workings of the entire solar system, to gain insight into the formation and evolution of Earth and the other planets, to understand how life began on Earth, and to determine whether extraterrestrial habitable environments and life forms exist (or ever did exist) elsewhere in the solar system or beyond.
To support these missions, planetary scientists engage in both terrestrial field studies and Earth observation to examine geologic features and processes that are common on other planets, such as impact structures, volcanic constructs, tectonic structures, and glacial and fluvial deposits and landforms. Geochemical studies include investigations of extraterrestrial materials now on Earth, including lunar samples, tens of thousands of meteorites, cosmic dust particles, and, most recently, particles returned from comets and asteroids. It is clear that planetary exploration has successfully stimulated research across diverse geoscience topics and disciplines.
While most of the U.S. electorate know of and take pride in space program accomplishments, few reflect on or know about the fundamental scientific research conducted during exploration and the importance of geoscientists in determining new knowledge that bears directly on our understanding of the Earth's formation as well as that of other objects throughout the solar system. It is a natural extension of the basic goals of GSA to expand geosystems knowledge to encompass our solar system as well as the many planets now being discovered around other stars.
Exploration of other planets in the solar system requires major national and international initiatives, significant funding levels, and long timelines for mission planning and collaborative research. For scientists, the funding cycle is much shorter than typical mission cycles, and in particular, graduate student and career-development timelines are much shorter than mission timeframes. Therefore, the growth and continued development of a robust workforce capable of conducting complex space missions and analyzing the scientific data returned from such missions does not depend on individual missions as much as it depends upon a consistent, sustained program that educates and develops planetary scientists. Public expenditures and investments are often controversial, yet planetary exploration has a proven record of benefits that include stimulation of the general economy through public and corporate investment, educational investment in STEM, and technology spin-offs to industry.
The GSA membership includes many geoscientists who count planetary science studies as part of their research portfolio or who have entered the geosciences because of inspiration from the Apollo missions and spacecraft exploration of other planets. The involvement of GSA members in planetary exploration supports collaborative research and stewardship of extraterrestrial bodies like the Moon, the planets and their satellites, near-Earth objects, and other small bodies throughout the solar system. With the realization that planetary exploration requires significant levels of government funding, GSA should support planetary exploration through informed advocacy in focused, responsible, and collaborative ways.
The Geological Society of America recommends the following:
To facilitate implementations of the goals of the position statement, The Geological Society of America recommends that its members take the following actions:
Position Statements adopted by GSA Council may be used freely in their entirety by members in public policy discussions on the scientific issues to which they pertain.
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The room was exceptional. Very clean. Great atmosphere. There was a kitchenette with a microwave, toaster, dishes, etc. Also had a gas fireplace. The courtyard was very nice and quiet. Great location. The Inn is well maintained.
Getting you more information on this room
Getting you more information on this room
"The Heron is the large room I believe with the Jacuzzi tub, will try to book in advance to get this room next..."


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The Master Flow 12 in. x 6 in. Duct Board Insulated Register Box - R6 helps you connect round pipe or insulated flexible duct to a grill or air register with ease (pipe, duct, grill and air register not included). This box is pre-wrapped with R6 fiberglass insulation to offer you an easy installation and provide high thermal efficiency. This box is compatible with a variety of collar sizes for your convenience.
- Use to connect round pipe or insulated flexible duct to an air register or grill (pipe, duct, air register and grill not included)
- Insulation lining helps absorb system noise and helps control condensation
- R6 fiberglass insulation helps provide high thermal efficiency
- Pre-wrapped and ready to install for easy installation
- Seal seams with code-approved mastic, sealant or duct tape (mastic, sealant and duct tape not included)
- Versatile box works with multiple collar sizes (not included)


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Blog Directory
Browse the Blog Directory
Browse blogs from wide range of categorized blogs on our blog directory. Whether you are looking for niche blogs, personal blogs, Canada blogs, Games blogs, Role-playing blogs you can find them all in our blog directory.
Submit your Blog
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Canada Role-playingBrowsing Canada Blogs » Games Blogs » Role-playing Blogs
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Search within these results:
Flash of Steel is a blog centered on strategy and war games - issues of design, marketing, media and more.


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Andaman Nicobar islands is one of the few territories in the list of union territories in india. Andaman and Nicobar islands are a group of islands in the bay of bengal with the andaman sea. The capital city of Andaman Islands is the city of port blair. The total area is approximately 8,249 square kilometer. The capital of nicobar islands is car nicobar.
The estimates population of Andaman & Nicobar Islands is 380,500 with a density of 46 people per square kilometer. The union territory of andaman & nicobar islands does not have a chief minister elated by the people and only has a lieutenant governor appointed by the president of india under the guidance of the union ministry.
The only major source of income to the territory of andaman is from tourism and road agriculture. Tourism plays an important role in the development and power of the Andaman & Nicobar territory of islands.
Radhanagar beach in the Havelock Islands, Ross and Smith Island beach,Laxmanpur Beach in Neil Island, Lalaji Bay beach in Long Island,Guitar Island Beach, Wandoor Beach in Port Blair, Aamkunj Beach in Rangat, Karmatang Beach in Mayabunder, Merk Bay beach in North Passage Island, Butler Bay beach in Hut bay island, Pathi Level beach in Diglipur, Cauurina Beach in Diglipur, Lamiya bay beach in diglipur, Raman Bageecha beach in rangat, Stewart Island beach, Avis Island beach in Mayabunder, Bharatpur beach in neil Island, Corbyn;s cove beach in port blair, Limestone Caves in Baratang island, Mahatma gandhi marine national park, Mount harriet National park,The great nicobar biosphere reserve, Kaala pathar beach in havelock island, Ray hill in mayabunder, Austin creek in mayabunder, Katchal island in nicobar, Cellular jail in port blair, Anthropological museum in port blair, Samudrika Naval Marine Museum in Port Blair, Sri Vetrimalai Murugan Temple in Port Blair are the must visit places in Andaman Nicobar Islands.
For more info on these Places to visit in Andaman Nicobar Islands follow the link-


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Sculpt hair into high-shine styles with this versatile glossing and conditioning balm. Featuring high-fixing polymers, hair is left nourished, polished and with a smooth, sleek, lacquer effect.
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Smooth a small amount of product onto wet hair before blowdrying. Alternatively, apply to dry hair to tame fly-aways.


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David Koma is one of the most promising young designers to emerge from the London fashion scene in recent years. Born in Georgia (the Caucuses, not the U.S. state), and a graduate of the prestigious Central Saint Martins design school in London, Koma founded his namesake label in 2009. And the U.S. has become the No. 1 market for his graphic, architectural, yet body-conscious aesthetic.
Koma's sculptural party dresses have been worn on the red carpet by Emily Blunt, Jennifer Lopez, Gwyneth Paltrow, Miley Cyrus and more. And for spring 2015, he has moved into more tailored, sporty pieces inspired by the graphic lines of Mondrian.
His look is so hot in L.A. that he's traveled here two times in as many weeks -- for a trunk show at Neiman Marcus and a dinner hosted by Pacific Palisades boutique owner Elyse Walker and her Forward website, which was attended by Ciara, Jenna Dewan-Tatum, Camille Belle and others.
I sat down with Koma, 29, during his recent visit to talk about how he's differentiating his own collection from Mugler (he's been creative director of the rebranded house of Thierry Mugler, owned by beauty behemoth Groupe Clarins, since December 2013), the demands on young designers for constant newness, his love of anatomy and TV's Dr. House.
How is it working on David Koma in London and Mugler in Paris?
At the beginning, it was a bit tough. But now, I'm quite enjoying it. I spend three days in London, three days in Paris and have one day a week off. I take the Eurostar, and my favorite train is the 5:40 a.m. because it's dark and I can sleep for another 2 or 2 1/2 hours and still be in the office by 10 a.m. in Paris.
Thierry Mugler, whose brand you have inherited, was known for creating the super-woman look of the 1980s and '90s with his structured suits and bustiers, sometimes incorporating industrial elements such as car tail fins, nuts and bolts. But he's moved on from fashion into costume and stage design. Do you ever speak to him?
No, but I think we're going to meet soon. I have much respect for his legacy and the house.
How do you distinguish your own brand from Mugler?
The Mugler girl is a bit more grown-up with strict tailoring. The David Koma girl is more playful and about texture and color. It's only been a year that I've been doing Mugler, and I'm sure with more seasons to come, more differentiations will emerge. From the beginning, I didn't go a lot into the archives, though we have more than 7,000 archival pieces, which is amazing. But I wanted to base Mugler more on a vibe.
What's your design process like? Do you sketch?
I love sketching but, unfortunately, nowadays I don't sketch a lot. The more business grows, the busier you are and the approach becomes very different. You need to learn how to edit, delegate and communicate to your team. And your team needs to know you well or it's a lot of wasting time. I have three designers at David Koma, and a total of 11 staff full-time. And I have a bit more at Mugler.
As a young designer, do you feel pressure to create newness every season to make headlines and get noticed?
Obviously, press is incredibly important. But if everything isn't working, and your sell-throughs aren't good, newness and freshness don't matter.
It almost seems like there are two different worlds designers need to cater to -- the world of fashion watchers and the world of fashion buyers and wearers.
Yes, and if you're a great designer, you can handle both. But the tempo is getting a little hard-core because of resort and pre-fall. It's too fast and too much. If you have two shows a year, you can prepare them, research, edit and present your concept at a top level. But when you do four to eight collections, it's more difficult. I'm happy I don't feel desperate. I just want to enjoy my work and do my best.
You've been getting a lot of exposure on the red carpet because your dresses are sexy. And let's face it, most actresses want to look sexy. Do you design either collection with the red carpet in mind?
I don't design especially for red carpet or celebrity. It's based on whatever concept I think is right for the brand. What links my dresses to celebrities is my love of the female form, my understanding of anatomy and my respect for the natural beauty of women. Without me trying hard, I think they are just getting it and feeling good in the dresses. I haven't done a lot of long gowns for the Golden Globes or Oscars, but maybe it would be interesting to try.
Did your interest in anatomy come before fashion?
I graduated from school in Russia early, at age 15. And in London, you can't apply to university until you're 18, so I had a few years. So I studied at the art academy in St. Petersburg, classical painting, drawing and anatomy. They taught us that before you can draw a person, you have to be able to draw bones, so you can't draw a face before you can draw a skull. We had lessons where we looked at a lot of bones, and even dead bodies. It was a very scientific approach to art. And I've stayed fascinated with anatomy. I love the TV show "House," and I'm also very interested in plastic surgery. I've watched a lot of documentaries about it. Those procedures are much more intense than cutting a dress though!
What artists inspire you?
Caravaggio because of his use of light and shadows and drama. But at the same time, I'm obsessed with pop art, like Mondrian and Kandinsky, and I love Niki de Saint Phalle.
How is the U.S. market for you?
It's the best, talking for my own line. Without having a strategy, but just releasing the collection and getting feedback about where it's working, we've had an amazing response from New York to Chicago to L.A. and Texas. From big department stores like Neiman Marcus to online boutiques like Forward by Elyse Walker, there have been equally good sell-throughs. I even thought about moving to New York at one point, but not yet.
What sizes do you sell most?
We do from size 6 to 14 (British sizes), but there is a lot of demand to increase the sizing. But it needs to be the correct product for it. There's no point to increase sizing if the dress doesn't look good.
What's next for your own brand? Accessories? Bringing on outside investors?
We're self-financed and quite happy to be. At Mugler, we're going to launch bags soon, ideally next season. And at David Koma, hopefully not long after.
What's your biggest challenge now?
To keep going and growing both the businesses at the same time, and keep myself fresh and excited. There are a lot of good things to come.


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I know I keep saying this, but work was crazy today.
However, it was crazy because I was busy getting everything done before I leave for Charlotte tomorrow morning! Literally, the only thing I remembered to photograph today was this beauty…
Una ensalada monstruosa from one of my fave cafes in Madison, containing:
- spinach
- tabbouli
- cucumbers
- carrots
- green peppers
- banana peppers
- cottage cheese
- garbanzos
- hardboiled egg
- beets
- broccoli salad
- sunflower seeds
- cucumber yogurt dressing
And of course, a glorious Sun Bun to go along with it all.
Since my blogging will be sparse over the next five days while I live it up Charlotte-style, I thought now would be the perfect time to update y'all on my Things I Will Do in 2010 list. Here we go, here we go, kick it!
(1) Pay off my credit cards.
I am one month away from paying off CC#1 and about six months away from paying off CC#2! Woowoo!
(2) Run two 1/2 marathons at a sub-1:50 pace.
(3) Travel somewhere.
Check! I'm off to Charlotte this weekend and then, if all goes according to plan, Banff, British Columbia (Canada – never been) in June! I don't want to be greedy, but if I can smush one more trip before 2011, I will be a VERY happy camper :).
(4) Put an additional $2000 in savings.
Let's just say, I am about 1/4 of the way there.
(5) Study Spanish.
Check! Classes started last Tuesday, yo!
(6) Write a story + get it published.
I haven't thought about this one once. Must. Get. On. That.
(7) Cook one new recipe a week.
I have done rather well with this one!
Week One: Spicy Thai Tempeh with Cashews
Week Two: Butternut Squash Casserole + Pumpkin Pie Hummus
Week Three: Sweet Potato + Parsnip Pancakes
Week Four: Pumpkin Pancakes
And with that, I'm off to watch Lost (last season premiere!!!). See y'all in Charlotte :)!


text: As the title says, I am wondering what Server Control panels people use. I have been using Virtualmin for a while not but am growing to dislike the way it does things so I was wondering what everyone else uses. Normally I would stick with pure command line but I am not the only one who does the control panel things so I can't rely on the other person with me to know the commands and what not. So yeah, what do you use?


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Small business and individual planning attorney with broad range of experience in all areas of individual, corporate, partnership and estate planning with an emphasis on effective tax planning.
Practive includes particular emphasis on effective planning through entity selection, estate and liability planning, business, real estate, planning and individual tax planning matters. Client base includes a substantial number of individuals and closely held businesses, and practice for personal clients includes a broad range of business law with a heavy emphasis on tax planning.
Specific areas of extensive experience (among others) include: estate planning, wills, trusts and gift tax planning; probate; Subchapter S taxation, corporate and partnership acquisitions, sales, structure and planning; reorganizations and recapitalizations; real estate (primarily acquisitions, exchanges, leasing, risk and liability planning); corporate tax; partnership tax. Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust and Probate law.


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The supposition about Murray Perahia in recent years has been that his fascination with Bach, both on disc and in his recitals, would temper his performing style, adding some rational Classicism to an essentially Romantic, poetic approach.
But there were flaws in that view. One was that as appealing as Mr. Perahia's early Schumann and Chopin recordings were, he had also established himself by the early 1980's as a thoughtful Classicist in his series of Mozart concerto recordings. Bach may have pushed the bar farther back into music history, but that side of Mr. Perahia's personality was there all along.
The other problem with this expectation was illuminated on Monday evening, when Mr. Perahia played music by Beethoven, Schumann and Brahms at Carnegie Hall. As it turns out, Mr. Perahia has by no means forsaken Romanticism, but he has skewed his approach, giving up some of the lyricism that was once his trademark in favor of tempestuousness.
This is by no means an unorthodox or objectionable approach for the music at hand, and to a great degree Mr. Perahia made it work for him. But there were times when it was difficult not to wish he would reconsider. His driven, impetuous approach to the outer movements of Beethoven's Sonata No. 16 in G (Op. 31, No. 1) caught the music's virtuosity but shortchanged its inherent humor. That said, his notably more relaxed account of the second movement had an elegance and lightness of touch that recalled his interpretive persona of the 1980's, and there were parts of the Schumann ''Fantasiestücke'' (Op. 12) that did so as well.
But in Schumann's more fiery music, and in much of Brahms's Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel (Op. 24), Mr. Perahia thundered through, pushing against the edges of his considerable technique in ways that were sometimes exciting, sometimes reckless and occasionally both. When this approach worked, as in Mr. Perahia's forceful but controlled account of the closing fugue, in the Brahms, it was irresistible. When it didn't, it seemed as though Mr. Perahia's nervous energy might tear the work apart.
On the bright side, of course, this beats bland predictability. But that was never Mr. Perahia's style.Continue reading the main story