http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534 I am writing a story about how shoppers' experiences shape their future habits.&nbsp; A study earlier this year found that one third of shoppers who were upset about a problem at a store will tell an average of four people about their experience.&nbsp; It also said half of those questioned avoided a store in the past because of someone else's negative experience. What do you think?&nbsp; How much can bad customer service, rude salepeople or refusing to return an item hurt a store?&nbsp; What is the worst shopping experience you've had or heard of others having?&nbsp; Has it cased you to stop shopping at that place?&nbsp; I'm also looking for local shoppers as sources for the story, so if you have a shopping experience you'd be willing to share with our readers, you can e-mail me at: rschuster@bakersfield.com. I am writing a story about how shoppers' experiences shape their future habits.&nbsp; A study earlier this year found that one third of shoppers who were upset about a problem at a store will tell an average of four people about their experience.&nbsp; It also said half of those questioned avoided a store in the past because of someone else's negative experience. What do you think?&nbsp; How much can bad customer service, rude salepeople or refusing to return an item hurt a store?&nbsp; What is the worst shopping experience you've had or heard of others having?&nbsp; Has it cased you to stop shopping at that place?&nbsp; I'm also looking for local shoppers as sources for the story, so if you have a shopping experience you'd be willing to share with our readers, you can e-mail me at: rschuster@bakersfield.com. en-us Wed, 30 Aug 2006 09:07:51 PDT <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" size="2">Best Buys treated my daughter so badly over a return item (that she had the receipt for) that I don't even bother reading their ads in the Sunday paper. I will never shop there.&nbsp;<br /> On the other hand, because of great customer service I always buy my music at World Records even though their price isn't the lowest.<br /> Bottom line ?&nbsp;It is <strong>all</strong> about how you are treated.</font></p> http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23126 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23126 <p><font face="Comic Sans MS" size="2">Best Buys treated my daughter so badly over a return item (that she had the receipt for) that I don't even bother reading their ads in the Sunday paper. I will never shop there.&nbsp;<br /> On the other hand, because of great customer service I always buy my music at World Records even though their price isn't the lowest.<br /> Bottom line ?&nbsp;It is <strong>all</strong> about how you are treated.</font></p> My wife purchased some imitation crab from the display case at Albertsons at Stockdale and Coffee.  When I opened it at home an hour later to make a salad, it was obvious to me from the smell that it was rancid.  It also felt slimy.  My wife returned it to the store.  The person behind the display counter claimed he couldn't smell anything (he must have a sinus problem).  He also claimed it didn't feel slimy (he was wearing gloves).  Then he pointed to the expiration date on the package.  He ultimately admitted the expiration date was what he put on the package based upon the sale date and not on the date the product was unfrozen (it comes to the store in large frozen blocks and he didn't know when it had been removed from the freezer).<br /> <br /> What irritated us most was that he wanted to argue about it instead of immediately dumping what was in the display and giving us a refund.  I wondered how many people got a little ill from that batch.  Remembering the slogan... It's Joe Albertson's Supermarket, but the <em>fresh? </em>meat department was his, we vowed to never go back to that store. http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23131 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23131 My wife purchased some imitation crab from the display case at Albertsons at Stockdale and Coffee.  When I opened it at home an hour later to make a salad, it was obvious to me from the smell that it was rancid.  It also felt slimy.  My wife returned it to the store.  The person behind the display counter claimed he couldn't smell anything (he must have a sinus problem).  He also claimed it didn't feel slimy (he was wearing gloves).  Then he pointed to the expiration date on the package.  He ultimately admitted the expiration date was what he put on the package based upon the sale date and not on the date the product was unfrozen (it comes to the store in large frozen blocks and he didn't know when it had been removed from the freezer).<br /> <br /> What irritated us most was that he wanted to argue about it instead of immediately dumping what was in the display and giving us a refund.  I wondered how many people got a little ill from that batch.  Remembering the slogan... It's Joe Albertson's Supermarket, but the <em>fresh? </em>meat department was his, we vowed to never go back to that store. I used to work at an office supply store (one of the big chain stores, not a locally owned one). The store had been out of a very common item for months, and there was no indication of when we were getting more. At least two or three customers would come in asking for it per week, and I kept mentioning it to the store manager, and was continually blown off. Finally, two customers came in looking for it, and were (understandably) angry when I told them that we were out, had been out for months, and had no idea when or even if we were getting any more. They started telling me that it was unacceptable, that the store should be more responsive to the customer's needs, yadda yadda yadda, and I stopped them cold by saying &quot;What can I say? We suck. Might I suggest going to (the other chain store) and see if you have better luck with them?&quot; After the shock wore off, they thanked me (and seemed to honestly mean it), and said that they hoped that the store would carry their item again so that they could spend their money there.&nbsp;<br /> .<br /> Unfortunately for me, a co-employee was standing within earshot and reported my comments to the store manager. When I was called into his office, he tried to give me a dressing down. I turned it around on him, and told him that the store was losing money because of his stocking problems, not my customer relations. I said that people come back to the store because they appreciate my honesty, and because I try to get them what they need. He ended up mumbling something about &quot;just don't do that again&quot; and I left his office. When it comes down to it, I'll take honesty over defending a faceless corporation any day of the week..... http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23135 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23135 I used to work at an office supply store (one of the big chain stores, not a locally owned one). The store had been out of a very common item for months, and there was no indication of when we were getting more. At least two or three customers would come in asking for it per week, and I kept mentioning it to the store manager, and was continually blown off. Finally, two customers came in looking for it, and were (understandably) angry when I told them that we were out, had been out for months, and had no idea when or even if we were getting any more. They started telling me that it was unacceptable, that the store should be more responsive to the customer's needs, yadda yadda yadda, and I stopped them cold by saying &quot;What can I say? We suck. Might I suggest going to (the other chain store) and see if you have better luck with them?&quot; After the shock wore off, they thanked me (and seemed to honestly mean it), and said that they hoped that the store would carry their item again so that they could spend their money there.&nbsp;<br /> .<br /> Unfortunately for me, a co-employee was standing within earshot and reported my comments to the store manager. When I was called into his office, he tried to give me a dressing down. I turned it around on him, and told him that the store was losing money because of his stocking problems, not my customer relations. I said that people come back to the store because they appreciate my honesty, and because I try to get them what they need. He ended up mumbling something about &quot;just don't do that again&quot; and I left his office. When it comes down to it, I'll take honesty over defending a faceless corporation any day of the week..... <p>John T's emplyee&nbsp;wasn't eyeing you with the motive you think, pretty boy.&nbsp; How big was that cigar?&nbsp; Did Bill Clinton endorse it?</p> http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23137 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23137 <p>John T's emplyee&nbsp;wasn't eyeing you with the motive you think, pretty boy.&nbsp; How big was that cigar?&nbsp; Did Bill Clinton endorse it?</p> <p>While bad/rude treatment does hurt the store, it never seems to hurt it as much as it should.<br /> .<br /> </p> <p>Most infamous would be the former George's Photo Shop in Thousand Oaks (Ventura County).&nbsp; The owner would actually start arguments with customers for no reason, growling at them, &quot;whaddya want to buy <u>that for???&quot;<br /> <br /> </u>This went on for 12 years.&nbsp; How he stayed in business, I have no idea.&nbsp; It's not like he was the only photography store in town.<br /> </p> http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23138 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23138 <p>While bad/rude treatment does hurt the store, it never seems to hurt it as much as it should.<br /> .<br /> </p> <p>Most infamous would be the former George's Photo Shop in Thousand Oaks (Ventura County).&nbsp; The owner would actually start arguments with customers for no reason, growling at them, &quot;whaddya want to buy <u>that for???&quot;<br /> <br /> </u>This went on for 12 years.&nbsp; How he stayed in business, I have no idea.&nbsp; It's not like he was the only photography store in town.<br /> </p> Twice in less than ten years I purchased a Sears Kenmore range for my daughter.&nbsp; Both times, when the oven went out in less than five years we were told it would cost more to repair the range than replace it.&nbsp; I called customer service and was told my problem was I hadn't purchased the extended warranty.&nbsp; I explained&nbsp;my oven was&nbsp;original to my home making it more than 22 years old and aside from some minor repair a few years ago, it has given me no trouble.&nbsp; I was then told appliances were no longer made for that type of longevity.&nbsp; I took that to mean Sears was no longer in the business of selling a quality product but had gone on to the more lucrative business of selling extended warranties.&nbsp; http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23143 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23143 Twice in less than ten years I purchased a Sears Kenmore range for my daughter.&nbsp; Both times, when the oven went out in less than five years we were told it would cost more to repair the range than replace it.&nbsp; I called customer service and was told my problem was I hadn't purchased the extended warranty.&nbsp; I explained&nbsp;my oven was&nbsp;original to my home making it more than 22 years old and aside from some minor repair a few years ago, it has given me no trouble.&nbsp; I was then told appliances were no longer made for that type of longevity.&nbsp; I took that to mean Sears was no longer in the business of selling a quality product but had gone on to the more lucrative business of selling extended warranties.&nbsp; What is it with camera shops. I have the exact same story about San Jose camera. It's like they are all stuck up and only want to talk to you if you are a professional buying more than $1000 worth of stuff.<br /> <br /> I recently had very bad service at Applebees in the marketplace. It was dead in there and we got seated after the 2 other groups that got there after we did. Everyone looked slow and confused. I really wonder about the management there. I certainly won't go back. It's not like the food is all that great either. I guess that's what you can expect from crapplebees. http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23155 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23155 What is it with camera shops. I have the exact same story about San Jose camera. It's like they are all stuck up and only want to talk to you if you are a professional buying more than $1000 worth of stuff.<br /> <br /> I recently had very bad service at Applebees in the marketplace. It was dead in there and we got seated after the 2 other groups that got there after we did. Everyone looked slow and confused. I really wonder about the management there. I certainly won't go back. It's not like the food is all that great either. I guess that's what you can expect from crapplebees. Hey Mattloch,<br /> <br /> Similar to your story, I worked for Ole's Hardware in Covina while going to college. They would have sales fliers every other couple of weeks advertizing 48&quot; flouescent tubes for 49 cents - a great&nbsp;price known as a loss leader. We would run out of&nbsp; them early the first day and then offer rainchecks, which were rarely redeemed, but the customer's butt was already in the store, so mission accomplished.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> Not only did this piss off the customers, it wasn't much fun to work there fielding the same questions and complaints. Once in a position to do the ordering for a sale, I stocked up bigtime on the lights. Management noticed too late and hauled my butt upstairs for a major chewing-out. When I played dumb and they had to sheepishly&nbsp;point out how the chain's sales policy found it profitable&nbsp;to operate in a dishonest fashion, the chewing-out turned into a weak plea not to do it again.<br /> <br /> Score one for minimum wage versus the system...&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23157 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23157 Hey Mattloch,<br /> <br /> Similar to your story, I worked for Ole's Hardware in Covina while going to college. They would have sales fliers every other couple of weeks advertizing 48&quot; flouescent tubes for 49 cents - a great&nbsp;price known as a loss leader. We would run out of&nbsp; them early the first day and then offer rainchecks, which were rarely redeemed, but the customer's butt was already in the store, so mission accomplished.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> Not only did this piss off the customers, it wasn't much fun to work there fielding the same questions and complaints. Once in a position to do the ordering for a sale, I stocked up bigtime on the lights. Management noticed too late and hauled my butt upstairs for a major chewing-out. When I played dumb and they had to sheepishly&nbsp;point out how the chain's sales policy found it profitable&nbsp;to operate in a dishonest fashion, the chewing-out turned into a weak plea not to do it again.<br /> <br /> Score one for minimum wage versus the system...&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A local body shop in town does excellent work on repairs, but you hate sending your vehicle there if you can help it, their customer service is atrocious. <br /> <br /> If you ask questions, they get so defensive&nbsp; and&nbsp; that It turns the customers off. http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23169 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23169 A local body shop in town does excellent work on repairs, but you hate sending your vehicle there if you can help it, their customer service is atrocious. <br /> <br /> If you ask questions, they get so defensive&nbsp; and&nbsp; that It turns the customers off. Back when I used to shop at Albertson's (and you're about to see why I don't shop there hardly anymore), you'd have to watch them like a hawk.&nbsp; They were <em>always</em> trying to pull some trick on you.<br /> .<br /> Such as one time&nbsp;a huge sign at the end-of-the-aisle platform advertised a giveaway price for Brawny paper towels -- and what was actually stocked there was nothing but Bounty.&nbsp; I'm sure a high percentage of shoppers grabbed tons of the &quot;Brawny&quot; without noticing -- and were rung up at the full-boat Bounty price.<br /> .<br /> Or the annual &quot;buy one turkey, get one free&quot; special near Thanksgiving.&nbsp; I checked out, and was told, &quot;uhhh, the special doesn't apply to <em>young</em> turkeys&quot; (which I was buying).&nbsp; I showed them the ad, and it said <em>all</em> turkeys of the listed brands.&nbsp; Nailed them, again.<br /> .<br /> <br /> Or the product on the shelf immediately above the jaw-dropping low price tag <em>being a different size, not the size that's on sale.</em>&nbsp; Every time I shopped there, I'd catch them in something.<br /> .<br /> Less deceptive, but still annoying, was their practice of affixing gaudy, prominent marked-down tags to a shelf -- <em>which only reduced the price 1 to 4 cents.<br /> .<br /> </em>I'm sure they're glad to be rid of me.<br /> http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23174 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23174 Back when I used to shop at Albertson's (and you're about to see why I don't shop there hardly anymore), you'd have to watch them like a hawk.&nbsp; They were <em>always</em> trying to pull some trick on you.<br /> .<br /> Such as one time&nbsp;a huge sign at the end-of-the-aisle platform advertised a giveaway price for Brawny paper towels -- and what was actually stocked there was nothing but Bounty.&nbsp; I'm sure a high percentage of shoppers grabbed tons of the &quot;Brawny&quot; without noticing -- and were rung up at the full-boat Bounty price.<br /> .<br /> Or the annual &quot;buy one turkey, get one free&quot; special near Thanksgiving.&nbsp; I checked out, and was told, &quot;uhhh, the special doesn't apply to <em>young</em> turkeys&quot; (which I was buying).&nbsp; I showed them the ad, and it said <em>all</em> turkeys of the listed brands.&nbsp; Nailed them, again.<br /> .<br /> <br /> Or the product on the shelf immediately above the jaw-dropping low price tag <em>being a different size, not the size that's on sale.</em>&nbsp; Every time I shopped there, I'd catch them in something.<br /> .<br /> Less deceptive, but still annoying, was their practice of affixing gaudy, prominent marked-down tags to a shelf -- <em>which only reduced the price 1 to 4 cents.<br /> .<br /> </em>I'm sure they're glad to be rid of me.<br /> I had a small Nikon digital camera that recieved a bump which cracked the glass over the lcd screen.&nbsp; I could tell that it was something that could be popped out and replaced.&nbsp; I took the camera to Henly's in Bakersfield and told them I would like to order a new glass.&nbsp; I was quickly told that this wasn't possible and a new camera was suggested.&nbsp; I then asked if it could be sent in for repairs.&nbsp; To their credit they did tell me that repairing it would probably cost more than it was worth.&nbsp; However, I took this to mean more than it was worth as a trade-in.&nbsp; After paying $25.00 to have it sent to a service facility, I learned that it would cost me more to have the glass replaced than I could buy an identical rebuilt camera online.&nbsp; I told them to just send it back.&nbsp; Then I got to thinking (surprising for me), I could purchase an underwater case for it, remove the old glass and keep the whole camera sealed in the case.&nbsp; In the process of searching for a case online, I located a camera store that had the replacement glass which Henly's told me I couldn't purchase.&nbsp; For less than the price it cost me to have Henly's send it into a service center for an evaluation, I was able to purchase the glass.&nbsp; When the glass arrived, I found it to be simply a matter of pealing a backing off of the glass and pressing it into place.&nbsp; Henly's could have charged me the $25.00, ordered the glass, installed the glass in about 2 minutes, made a profit, and made me a happy customer.&nbsp; Instead I was BS'd into believing the glass wasn't available.&nbsp; Henly's made nothing on the shipping transaction (I think) and lost a previously loyal customer. http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23205 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23205 I had a small Nikon digital camera that recieved a bump which cracked the glass over the lcd screen.&nbsp; I could tell that it was something that could be popped out and replaced.&nbsp; I took the camera to Henly's in Bakersfield and told them I would like to order a new glass.&nbsp; I was quickly told that this wasn't possible and a new camera was suggested.&nbsp; I then asked if it could be sent in for repairs.&nbsp; To their credit they did tell me that repairing it would probably cost more than it was worth.&nbsp; However, I took this to mean more than it was worth as a trade-in.&nbsp; After paying $25.00 to have it sent to a service facility, I learned that it would cost me more to have the glass replaced than I could buy an identical rebuilt camera online.&nbsp; I told them to just send it back.&nbsp; Then I got to thinking (surprising for me), I could purchase an underwater case for it, remove the old glass and keep the whole camera sealed in the case.&nbsp; In the process of searching for a case online, I located a camera store that had the replacement glass which Henly's told me I couldn't purchase.&nbsp; For less than the price it cost me to have Henly's send it into a service center for an evaluation, I was able to purchase the glass.&nbsp; When the glass arrived, I found it to be simply a matter of pealing a backing off of the glass and pressing it into place.&nbsp; Henly's could have charged me the $25.00, ordered the glass, installed the glass in about 2 minutes, made a profit, and made me a happy customer.&nbsp; Instead I was BS'd into believing the glass wasn't available.&nbsp; Henly's made nothing on the shipping transaction (I think) and lost a previously loyal customer. <p>I've been to five bike shops in last six or seven weeks, three here and one in Carpenteria one in Ventura and I have never seen such lousy attitudes and lack of enthusiasm.  I brought a friend with a pocket full of money to the stores on the coast and told the employees that he was going to buy a bike that weekend so all they had to do was smile and sell.  I had the feeling we were older than the average customer [maybe paranoid] and kind of blown off by both places. No sell.  Here the only bright spot I've found is Sam at Action Sports.  Hire employees that happy to see the  customers and know their products and you can put most shops out of business.</p> http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23207 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23207 <p>I've been to five bike shops in last six or seven weeks, three here and one in Carpenteria one in Ventura and I have never seen such lousy attitudes and lack of enthusiasm.  I brought a friend with a pocket full of money to the stores on the coast and told the employees that he was going to buy a bike that weekend so all they had to do was smile and sell.  I had the feeling we were older than the average customer [maybe paranoid] and kind of blown off by both places. No sell.  Here the only bright spot I've found is Sam at Action Sports.  Hire employees that happy to see the  customers and know their products and you can put most shops out of business.</p> <p>Whenever I receive poor service at a restaraunt, I really don't say much, the smal of zero tip will say it all.&nbsp; However, there have been a few times when the service is so outstanding that I ask to speak to the manager.&nbsp; This usually shakes up the waiter or waitress until they find that I wanted to tell the manager what great service I had received.&nbsp; Sadly this hasn't happened all that much.&nbsp; I find that most people tend to only be vocal in complaining and seldom will seek out an opportunity to praise someone.&nbsp; They don't know what they are missing</p> http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23216 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23216 <p>Whenever I receive poor service at a restaraunt, I really don't say much, the smal of zero tip will say it all.&nbsp; However, there have been a few times when the service is so outstanding that I ask to speak to the manager.&nbsp; This usually shakes up the waiter or waitress until they find that I wanted to tell the manager what great service I had received.&nbsp; Sadly this hasn't happened all that much.&nbsp; I find that most people tend to only be vocal in complaining and seldom will seek out an opportunity to praise someone.&nbsp; They don't know what they are missing</p> Ahh, yes, bike shops are like camera shops -- especially on the urban coast.&nbsp; There's a snob factor in play, I believe.<br /> .<br /> Locally, Snider's treatment was acceptable if a little unenthusiastic.&nbsp; Their preparation of our new bike was thorough and diligent enough.&nbsp; They haven't lost us, yet.<br /> .<br /> Shop at bike shops or camera shops on the urban coast, though, and you'd better bring an attitude imported directly from hell.&nbsp; You're gonna need it.<br /> .<br /> As for giving praise when it's due, I do so quite copiously when it's deserved.&nbsp; McDonald's on White Lane and Gosford got praise recently for amazing speed and pleasant service, and America's Tire Company on White and Ashe deserve every plug that I can give them.<br /> http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23219 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23219 Ahh, yes, bike shops are like camera shops -- especially on the urban coast.&nbsp; There's a snob factor in play, I believe.<br /> .<br /> Locally, Snider's treatment was acceptable if a little unenthusiastic.&nbsp; Their preparation of our new bike was thorough and diligent enough.&nbsp; They haven't lost us, yet.<br /> .<br /> Shop at bike shops or camera shops on the urban coast, though, and you'd better bring an attitude imported directly from hell.&nbsp; You're gonna need it.<br /> .<br /> As for giving praise when it's due, I do so quite copiously when it's deserved.&nbsp; McDonald's on White Lane and Gosford got praise recently for amazing speed and pleasant service, and America's Tire Company on White and Ashe deserve every plug that I can give them.<br /> anglo<br /> <br /> It's kinda funny. When I first started reading your post about lousy bike shops, I was going to tell you to go try action sports. Sam is a good guy. He used to be down at Lengthwise. I like to go in to action sports and look at all the crazy expensive bikes. http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23220 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23220 anglo<br /> <br /> It's kinda funny. When I first started reading your post about lousy bike shops, I was going to tell you to go try action sports. Sam is a good guy. He used to be down at Lengthwise. I like to go in to action sports and look at all the crazy expensive bikes. Outrageous prices, but I would really like to have one.  I guess if I told them upfront that I was interested in one of their $5,000 models they might at least act like they were interested.  I've owned a couple of good businesses and really pushed customer service and made sure praise given in front of others when due.  Owners should spend as much time as possible seeking customers opinions concerning service. http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23297 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23297 Outrageous prices, but I would really like to have one.  I guess if I told them upfront that I was interested in one of their $5,000 models they might at least act like they were interested.  I've owned a couple of good businesses and really pushed customer service and made sure praise given in front of others when due.  Owners should spend as much time as possible seeking customers opinions concerning service. This isn't strictly retail but I just worked 9 hours..and an hour of commute and decided to stop by Winco for the first time.&nbsp; I wandered for about an hour..picked up some things I hadn't seen in other stores (like Henry Weinhardt Orange Creme Soda) and went to check out.&nbsp; It came to 48 bucks and change.&nbsp; I got my ATM card out and found that they don't&nbsp; take &quot;charge&quot; so I'd need a pin #.&nbsp; Well, I don't ever use that card that way so I asked if they took checks and he said yes.&nbsp; I found&nbsp;I didn't have my checkbook with me.&nbsp; I dug for cash but only had about 35 bucks on me.&nbsp; I asked if they took regular charge cards...nope..no charge at all.&nbsp;&nbsp; I asked &quot;do you have that posted in the front of the store?&quot;&nbsp; He pointed to a sign on the register.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; I'd say that 's a little late for most folks ya know.&nbsp; I told him that the whole situation was ridiculous because I use that card in every grocery store and retail store in Kern County.&nbsp; He was sooo sorry but that's the policy.&nbsp; I told him he could tell his manager that I will NOT be coming back!&nbsp; He won't of course..but I had to say it.<br /> <br /> My first time there..and I hate those big box type grocery stores anyway...but I will not set foot inside that store again.&nbsp; I must have walked 5 miles on my tired feet..all for nothing.&nbsp; <br /> <br /> They didnt just lose the 48 bucks..they lost all future sales with me. http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23301 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23301 This isn't strictly retail but I just worked 9 hours..and an hour of commute and decided to stop by Winco for the first time.&nbsp; I wandered for about an hour..picked up some things I hadn't seen in other stores (like Henry Weinhardt Orange Creme Soda) and went to check out.&nbsp; It came to 48 bucks and change.&nbsp; I got my ATM card out and found that they don't&nbsp; take &quot;charge&quot; so I'd need a pin #.&nbsp; Well, I don't ever use that card that way so I asked if they took checks and he said yes.&nbsp; I found&nbsp;I didn't have my checkbook with me.&nbsp; I dug for cash but only had about 35 bucks on me.&nbsp; I asked if they took regular charge cards...nope..no charge at all.&nbsp;&nbsp; I asked &quot;do you have that posted in the front of the store?&quot;&nbsp; He pointed to a sign on the register.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; I'd say that 's a little late for most folks ya know.&nbsp; I told him that the whole situation was ridiculous because I use that card in every grocery store and retail store in Kern County.&nbsp; He was sooo sorry but that's the policy.&nbsp; I told him he could tell his manager that I will NOT be coming back!&nbsp; He won't of course..but I had to say it.<br /> <br /> My first time there..and I hate those big box type grocery stores anyway...but I will not set foot inside that store again.&nbsp; I must have walked 5 miles on my tired feet..all for nothing.&nbsp; <br /> <br /> They didnt just lose the 48 bucks..they lost all future sales with me. By the way..I used this name with picture so the world would know who it is that's FURIOUS with Winco.<br /> <br /> Besides..the californian won't fix this weird profiile thing so I can go pictureless with nancyII or pictured with Nancyg.<br /> Apparently this isn't my week. http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23302 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23302 By the way..I used this name with picture so the world would know who it is that's FURIOUS with Winco.<br /> <br /> Besides..the californian won't fix this weird profiile thing so I can go pictureless with nancyII or pictured with Nancyg.<br /> Apparently this isn't my week. I confess.... Sears and their Discover card. Back in the early 80's, I received their brand new Discover Card. The first statement I received had an annual fee (I think it was $39). I was not told about the annual fee and pitched a fit (fee reversed and I closed account). To this day, I will never own a Discover card. Then, there was Santa Barbara Pizza (North Chester). They ticked me off, so I never called them again for like 5 years. Subway sandwiches at North Chester at the Von's shopping park would not give me a party platter with 2 hours advance notice -although they had only 3 customers in the store at the time (I asked). I called the Subway on Roberts Lane and Olive Drive with no problem - and have used them ever since. Customer Service is #1. And for all you who work in service oriented jobs, beware of the disgruntled customer! http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23304 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23304 I confess.... Sears and their Discover card. Back in the early 80's, I received their brand new Discover Card. The first statement I received had an annual fee (I think it was $39). I was not told about the annual fee and pitched a fit (fee reversed and I closed account). To this day, I will never own a Discover card. Then, there was Santa Barbara Pizza (North Chester). They ticked me off, so I never called them again for like 5 years. Subway sandwiches at North Chester at the Von's shopping park would not give me a party platter with 2 hours advance notice -although they had only 3 customers in the store at the time (I asked). I called the Subway on Roberts Lane and Olive Drive with no problem - and have used them ever since. Customer Service is #1. And for all you who work in service oriented jobs, beware of the disgruntled customer! Word of mouth can help or really hurt a business.&nbsp; Maybe they aren't thinking that just one disgruntled customer can lead to a whole family or circle of friends not using a business.&nbsp; These days, when there are competing businesses (same companies) are on just about every corner, people will just go to the next one as Bako mentioned above.<br /> <br /> Supremarkets are a dime a dozen...Winco certainly doesn't have a monopoly on THAT business.<br /> <br /> I also won't ever go back to the KFC on Brundage.&nbsp; I got food there once and they had no plastic utinsels.&nbsp; It's hard to eat mashed potatoes and gravy with your fingers.&nbsp; All they said was &quot;sorry, the crew walked out and we had to fill in.&quot;&nbsp; I asked &quot;why didn't you tell me you didn't have utensils when I ordered?&quot;&nbsp; The next time, the chicken strips had been there long enough they could have qualified for jerky.&nbsp; Nope..done with that one. http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23316 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23316 Word of mouth can help or really hurt a business.&nbsp; Maybe they aren't thinking that just one disgruntled customer can lead to a whole family or circle of friends not using a business.&nbsp; These days, when there are competing businesses (same companies) are on just about every corner, people will just go to the next one as Bako mentioned above.<br /> <br /> Supremarkets are a dime a dozen...Winco certainly doesn't have a monopoly on THAT business.<br /> <br /> I also won't ever go back to the KFC on Brundage.&nbsp; I got food there once and they had no plastic utinsels.&nbsp; It's hard to eat mashed potatoes and gravy with your fingers.&nbsp; All they said was &quot;sorry, the crew walked out and we had to fill in.&quot;&nbsp; I asked &quot;why didn't you tell me you didn't have utensils when I ordered?&quot;&nbsp; The next time, the chicken strips had been there long enough they could have qualified for jerky.&nbsp; Nope..done with that one. Customer service is the absolute key to my shopping choices. <br /> <br /> What bother's me is a specialty place, like a Ford Mustang shop, where you have to go even though the owner is so rude that I would like to permantly remove him from my list. Actually, we did that after selling the Mustang.<br /> <br /> Good customer service is why I go El Portal Restaurant. I love the way they call me Amigo. http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23320 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23320 Customer service is the absolute key to my shopping choices. <br /> <br /> What bother's me is a specialty place, like a Ford Mustang shop, where you have to go even though the owner is so rude that I would like to permantly remove him from my list. Actually, we did that after selling the Mustang.<br /> <br /> Good customer service is why I go El Portal Restaurant. I love the way they call me Amigo. Two nights ago, my husband and I were dining at a local restraint.  The waiter took our orders and returned with our (non alcoholic) drinks.  They weren't what we ordered.  He apologized and we told him no problem we'd be happy to try what he brought while he returned with our ordered drinks.  Our food was then delivered by the manager.  He asked us if everything was OK, we said yes every thing was great.  When the bill arrived it was for the drinks only and said "managers comp".  We asked why and were told by the manager that we didn't complain about the drink mix up, then he saw us praying before our meal, something he didn't see often in restaurants.  It just shows that sometimes Customer Service begins with the customer's attitude. http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23323 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23323 Two nights ago, my husband and I were dining at a local restraint.  The waiter took our orders and returned with our (non alcoholic) drinks.  They weren't what we ordered.  He apologized and we told him no problem we'd be happy to try what he brought while he returned with our ordered drinks.  Our food was then delivered by the manager.  He asked us if everything was OK, we said yes every thing was great.  When the bill arrived it was for the drinks only and said "managers comp".  We asked why and were told by the manager that we didn't complain about the drink mix up, then he saw us praying before our meal, something he didn't see often in restaurants.  It just shows that sometimes Customer Service begins with the customer's attitude. <p>dg:&nbsp; Now that is cool.&nbsp; I was at the Elephant Bar with my wife.&nbsp; We were given one of those vibrating pagers.&nbsp; When a couple that came in several minutes after us had their pager go off first, I asked the people at the counter why we were passed up.&nbsp; The response was,&nbsp;&quot;I guess your pager didn't work.&quot;&nbsp; When I pointed out that there were only three groups waiting and maybe somebody could have asked why nobody stood up when our pager should have activated, I got a blank stare.&nbsp; We&nbsp;did get an appetizer as a managers comp though.&nbsp; The food and service after we did get seated were both great, and we will return again.<br /> <br /> In regards to praying before a meal.&nbsp; Have you ever been interrupted by a waiter or waitress?&nbsp; For the most part I have found that, once they realize you have your head bowed and your eyes closed they wait, but there have been times when water was poured during our prayer.</p> <p>Most of what I have seen here is complaints about service.&nbsp; Yours is a praise about service.&nbsp; You should post the name of the restaurant..</p> http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23326 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23326 <p>dg:&nbsp; Now that is cool.&nbsp; I was at the Elephant Bar with my wife.&nbsp; We were given one of those vibrating pagers.&nbsp; When a couple that came in several minutes after us had their pager go off first, I asked the people at the counter why we were passed up.&nbsp; The response was,&nbsp;&quot;I guess your pager didn't work.&quot;&nbsp; When I pointed out that there were only three groups waiting and maybe somebody could have asked why nobody stood up when our pager should have activated, I got a blank stare.&nbsp; We&nbsp;did get an appetizer as a managers comp though.&nbsp; The food and service after we did get seated were both great, and we will return again.<br /> <br /> In regards to praying before a meal.&nbsp; Have you ever been interrupted by a waiter or waitress?&nbsp; For the most part I have found that, once they realize you have your head bowed and your eyes closed they wait, but there have been times when water was poured during our prayer.</p> <p>Most of what I have seen here is complaints about service.&nbsp; Yours is a praise about service.&nbsp; You should post the name of the restaurant..</p> Coincidently it was California Pizza Kitchen. http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23328 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23328 Coincidently it was California Pizza Kitchen. dg:&nbsp; Thanks for the recommendation.&nbsp; To think I was only 20 ft away from another good experience.&nbsp; I have not yet been there yet, but it is on my list. http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23331 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23331 dg:&nbsp; Thanks for the recommendation.&nbsp; To think I was only 20 ft away from another good experience.&nbsp; I have not yet been there yet, but it is on my list. Have you ever told friends to stop shopping somewhere you had a bad experience?&nbsp; Have you ever stopped shopping somewhere after a friend told you of a bad experience they had there? http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23332 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23332 Have you ever told friends to stop shopping somewhere you had a bad experience?&nbsp; Have you ever stopped shopping somewhere after a friend told you of a bad experience they had there? <p>I had a similar experience as yours at Chili's.&nbsp; We called ahead and were told there was no need to be put on the waiting list because there was no one waiting.&nbsp; When we arrived seven minutes later the wait was 45 minutes.&nbsp; When I told the person at the door, we were told that sometimes the person in the back who takes the calls fails to check the front and is going on old information.&nbsp; They seated us immediately.</p> http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23333 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23333 <p>I had a similar experience as yours at Chili's.&nbsp; We called ahead and were told there was no need to be put on the waiting list because there was no one waiting.&nbsp; When we arrived seven minutes later the wait was 45 minutes.&nbsp; When I told the person at the door, we were told that sometimes the person in the back who takes the calls fails to check the front and is going on old information.&nbsp; They seated us immediately.</p> dqrealish,<br /> I'd be really impressed if your prayers were for a free meal. In fact, I'd invite you to be my guest at Santa Anita. http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23334 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23334 dqrealish,<br /> I'd be really impressed if your prayers were for a free meal. In fact, I'd invite you to be my guest at Santa Anita. Yes, yes, yes.&nbsp; My mother-in-law was notorious for buying gifts and not including the receipt.&nbsp; Often the clothes she bought the kids were the wrong size.&nbsp; After returning an item for the third time without a receipt, K-Mart on 34th Street put me on a Shoplifters Alert List!&nbsp; I never visited that store again and was not unhappy to see it close!&nbsp; http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23335 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23335 Yes, yes, yes.&nbsp; My mother-in-law was notorious for buying gifts and not including the receipt.&nbsp; Often the clothes she bought the kids were the wrong size.&nbsp; After returning an item for the third time without a receipt, K-Mart on 34th Street put me on a Shoplifters Alert List!&nbsp; I never visited that store again and was not unhappy to see it close!&nbsp; <p>I searched the manager down at Chili's and at Macaroni Grill.&nbsp; Both times were to issue praise for the great service the waitresses had given us.&nbsp; When I did this at the Macaroni Grill they had only been open 3 days.&nbsp; It's fun to watch the waitress squirm when you ask to speak to a manager, then watch the look on their faces when the manager tells them why you asked for the manager.&nbsp; Once I asked for the waitress to go get the manager and return with him please.&nbsp; I told the manager, with the waitress standing right there, that she was one of the best waitresses I had ever encountered.&nbsp; She was speachless, but she couldn't stop grinning.&nbsp; I believe actions like these will increase the efforts of people who serve.</p> http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23336 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23336 <p>I searched the manager down at Chili's and at Macaroni Grill.&nbsp; Both times were to issue praise for the great service the waitresses had given us.&nbsp; When I did this at the Macaroni Grill they had only been open 3 days.&nbsp; It's fun to watch the waitress squirm when you ask to speak to a manager, then watch the look on their faces when the manager tells them why you asked for the manager.&nbsp; Once I asked for the waitress to go get the manager and return with him please.&nbsp; I told the manager, with the waitress standing right there, that she was one of the best waitresses I had ever encountered.&nbsp; She was speachless, but she couldn't stop grinning.&nbsp; I believe actions like these will increase the efforts of people who serve.</p> <p>Schuster, yes to both.&nbsp; I'm always poised to pounce on anyone who mentions shopping at Albertson's.&nbsp; (Or giving to Goodwill.&nbsp; I send them on to the Salvation Army.&nbsp; Unenthusiastic ingratitude is bad enough in retail.&nbsp; It's <em>really</em> an insult when you're <em>donating</em> something.)<br /> </p> http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23337 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23337 <p>Schuster, yes to both.&nbsp; I'm always poised to pounce on anyone who mentions shopping at Albertson's.&nbsp; (Or giving to Goodwill.&nbsp; I send them on to the Salvation Army.&nbsp; Unenthusiastic ingratitude is bad enough in retail.&nbsp; It's <em>really</em> an insult when you're <em>donating</em> something.)<br /> </p> <p>Robb:&nbsp; Impressing you is not my goal.&nbsp; Humbling myself in grattitude is why I pray in a restaraunt.&nbsp; Not boasting about it is why I post annon.</p> http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23338 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23338 <p>Robb:&nbsp; Impressing you is not my goal.&nbsp; Humbling myself in grattitude is why I pray in a restaraunt.&nbsp; Not boasting about it is why I post annon.</p> Hardliner:&nbsp; I have notice that poised to pounce in you quite often.&nbsp; Have you ever been poised to lift up someone? http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23339 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23339 Hardliner:&nbsp; I have notice that poised to pounce in you quite often.&nbsp; Have you ever been poised to lift up someone? Too bad. We could have made a bundle on the ponies... http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23341 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23341 Too bad. We could have made a bundle on the ponies... Lots of times, Anny.&nbsp; Scroll up.<br /> .<br /> As a matter of fact, I did it again just last night.&nbsp; I just told someone that their service has been perfect every time and that he has never let me down.<br /> http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23342 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23342 Lots of times, Anny.&nbsp; Scroll up.<br /> .<br /> As a matter of fact, I did it again just last night.&nbsp; I just told someone that their service has been perfect every time and that he has never let me down.<br /> Schuster:&nbsp;<br /> <br /> I have had several people comment on how great my spa / waterfall looks, then I show them up close the exposed rebar rusting in two places.&nbsp; I tell them about how the job was supposed to be accomplished in a few weeks but took several months.&nbsp; I tell them how I was promised an additional item because of the slowness of the completion, but didn't receive the item that I was promised.&nbsp; I tell them about the lies the contractor told the BBB and show them pictures to prove they were lies.&nbsp; I won't go into the name here because this will probably end up in court.&nbsp; However,&nbsp;&nbsp;if you are planning on getting a pool from any company locally that uses&nbsp;plastic cement to make imitation boulders, you may want to rethink that.&nbsp; Additionally, you may be interested to know that plastic cement, at least in my spa, will start deteriorating under water.&nbsp; I have&nbsp;have sand and grit on me&nbsp;every time I sit in the spa.&nbsp; I have changed the minds of several people who have taken the tour of my spa. http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23344 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23344 Schuster:&nbsp;<br /> <br /> I have had several people comment on how great my spa / waterfall looks, then I show them up close the exposed rebar rusting in two places.&nbsp; I tell them about how the job was supposed to be accomplished in a few weeks but took several months.&nbsp; I tell them how I was promised an additional item because of the slowness of the completion, but didn't receive the item that I was promised.&nbsp; I tell them about the lies the contractor told the BBB and show them pictures to prove they were lies.&nbsp; I won't go into the name here because this will probably end up in court.&nbsp; However,&nbsp;&nbsp;if you are planning on getting a pool from any company locally that uses&nbsp;plastic cement to make imitation boulders, you may want to rethink that.&nbsp; Additionally, you may be interested to know that plastic cement, at least in my spa, will start deteriorating under water.&nbsp; I have&nbsp;have sand and grit on me&nbsp;every time I sit in the spa.&nbsp; I have changed the minds of several people who have taken the tour of my spa. Hardliner:&nbsp; Made you smile to do that, didn't it? http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23345 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23345 Hardliner:&nbsp; Made you smile to do that, didn't it? <p>It certainly did.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23346 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23346 <p>It certainly did.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> Hardliner:&nbsp; You know it probably added a little bounce in the step of the person who received the praise for the rest of the day. http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23348 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23348 Hardliner:&nbsp; You know it probably added a little bounce in the step of the person who received the praise for the rest of the day. I certainly hope so, because that was my intention.<br /> .<br /> I appreciate the point that you're trying to make.&nbsp; Spreading a little more cheer and a little less negativity would make the world a better place.<br /> <br /> Can't argue with that.<br /> http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23349 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23349 I certainly hope so, because that was my intention.<br /> .<br /> I appreciate the point that you're trying to make.&nbsp; Spreading a little more cheer and a little less negativity would make the world a better place.<br /> <br /> Can't argue with that.<br /> Hardliner:&nbsp; YOU HAVE A GREAT DAY! http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23352 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23352 Hardliner:&nbsp; YOU HAVE A GREAT DAY! <p>You too.&nbsp; And thanks for reminding us all how a little pleasantry can go a long way.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23355 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23355 <p>You too.&nbsp; And thanks for reminding us all how a little pleasantry can go a long way.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>You're welcome Hardliner:&nbsp; Speaking of pleasantry going a long way.... I was pulled over by a police officer one evening as I was going west on the street where The Rice Bowl is ( I think it might be 19th ).&nbsp; Anyway, I had been one street over when I realized that I was on the wrong street, so I made a left turn, came south one block and made a right turn a few blocks from the Rice Bowl.&nbsp; Just as I was pulling into the parking lot, that ominous red light appeared behind me.&nbsp; The officer followed me into the parking lot.&nbsp; When he approached, he asked if I knew why he had pulled me over.&nbsp; He seemed angry.&nbsp; When I told him I had no clue, he told me it was because I had made a right turn with signaling and then changed lanes without signaling, again in a rather sarcastic and angry tone.&nbsp; Then he asked if my signals work, again rather angrily.&nbsp; Let me illuminate the fact that this was in the evening.&nbsp; The only cars that I had seen on the three streets since turning off of Union were mine and the patrol car.&nbsp; After he asked if my signal worked, I said, as politely as I could, &quot;yes, I guess I just forgot to use them&quot;.&nbsp; At that point he started writing me a ticket,&nbsp; he even seemed to be writing furiously.&nbsp; About 1/2 way through the ticket he stopped and grumbled something.&nbsp; Then he started tapping his pen on the paper trying to get it to work (it had run out of ink).&nbsp; I calmly said, &quot;I have one&quot;&nbsp; I pulled an ink pen from my center console and handed it to him.&nbsp; Talk about taking the wind out of someone's sails.&nbsp; He stood there dumbfounded, took my ink pen and wrote warning across the ticket.&nbsp; After all of this had finished, he started to walk away.&nbsp; I had to say, &quot;Excuse me officer, may I have my pen back?&quot;&nbsp; Just being nice to someone who was obviously upset about something, made the difference.&nbsp; Looking back, I probably should have let him keep the Bic pen.</p> http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23356 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23356 <p>You're welcome Hardliner:&nbsp; Speaking of pleasantry going a long way.... I was pulled over by a police officer one evening as I was going west on the street where The Rice Bowl is ( I think it might be 19th ).&nbsp; Anyway, I had been one street over when I realized that I was on the wrong street, so I made a left turn, came south one block and made a right turn a few blocks from the Rice Bowl.&nbsp; Just as I was pulling into the parking lot, that ominous red light appeared behind me.&nbsp; The officer followed me into the parking lot.&nbsp; When he approached, he asked if I knew why he had pulled me over.&nbsp; He seemed angry.&nbsp; When I told him I had no clue, he told me it was because I had made a right turn with signaling and then changed lanes without signaling, again in a rather sarcastic and angry tone.&nbsp; Then he asked if my signals work, again rather angrily.&nbsp; Let me illuminate the fact that this was in the evening.&nbsp; The only cars that I had seen on the three streets since turning off of Union were mine and the patrol car.&nbsp; After he asked if my signal worked, I said, as politely as I could, &quot;yes, I guess I just forgot to use them&quot;.&nbsp; At that point he started writing me a ticket,&nbsp; he even seemed to be writing furiously.&nbsp; About 1/2 way through the ticket he stopped and grumbled something.&nbsp; Then he started tapping his pen on the paper trying to get it to work (it had run out of ink).&nbsp; I calmly said, &quot;I have one&quot;&nbsp; I pulled an ink pen from my center console and handed it to him.&nbsp; Talk about taking the wind out of someone's sails.&nbsp; He stood there dumbfounded, took my ink pen and wrote warning across the ticket.&nbsp; After all of this had finished, he started to walk away.&nbsp; I had to say, &quot;Excuse me officer, may I have my pen back?&quot;&nbsp; Just being nice to someone who was obviously upset about something, made the difference.&nbsp; Looking back, I probably should have let him keep the Bic pen.</p> I always get a chuckle out of those cashiers who tell me, after using my Vons card or my Albertsons card, how much I saved today.&nbsp; I always ask, &quot;Please tell me where the&nbsp;savings was deposited.&quot; http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23357 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23357 I always get a chuckle out of those cashiers who tell me, after using my Vons card or my Albertsons card, how much I saved today.&nbsp; I always ask, &quot;Please tell me where the&nbsp;savings was deposited.&quot; My favorite make-em-chuckle lines:<br /> <br /> &quot;Would you like your milk in a bag?&quot;&nbsp; &quot;No, please leave it in the bottle.&quot;<br /> <br /> &quot;Would you like your beer in a bag?&quot;&nbsp; &quot;No, I drink it from the can.&quot;<br /> <br /> &quot;Do you need help out with that?&quot;&nbsp; &quot;Ten dollars would be helpful, if you can spare it.&quot;<br /> <br /> &quot;Do you want a box?&quot;&nbsp; &quot;No, I don't like fighting.&quot;<br /> <br /> &quot;Would you like paper or plastic [bag]?&quot;&nbsp; &quot;Burlap, thanks.&quot;<br /> http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23360 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23360 My favorite make-em-chuckle lines:<br /> <br /> &quot;Would you like your milk in a bag?&quot;&nbsp; &quot;No, please leave it in the bottle.&quot;<br /> <br /> &quot;Would you like your beer in a bag?&quot;&nbsp; &quot;No, I drink it from the can.&quot;<br /> <br /> &quot;Do you need help out with that?&quot;&nbsp; &quot;Ten dollars would be helpful, if you can spare it.&quot;<br /> <br /> &quot;Do you want a box?&quot;&nbsp; &quot;No, I don't like fighting.&quot;<br /> <br /> &quot;Would you like paper or plastic [bag]?&quot;&nbsp; &quot;Burlap, thanks.&quot;<br /> Slight variations:<br /> <br /> Would you like your milk in a bag?&nbsp; Isn't that where it orginally came from?<br /> <br /> Would you like your beer in a bag?&nbsp; She can buy her own.<br /> <br /> Do you wanna box for that?&nbsp; Nah, but I'll arm wrestle you for it. http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23373 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23373 Slight variations:<br /> <br /> Would you like your milk in a bag?&nbsp; Isn't that where it orginally came from?<br /> <br /> Would you like your beer in a bag?&nbsp; She can buy her own.<br /> <br /> Do you wanna box for that?&nbsp; Nah, but I'll arm wrestle you for it. <u>anonymous</u>. we must frequent the same restaurants, yeah you need a prayer at these places if you are going to eat the food, it is Reagan's revenge at these places. http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23386 http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/schuster80/4534/#c_23386 <u>anonymous</u>. we must frequent the same restaurants, yeah you need a prayer at these places if you are going to eat the food, it is Reagan's revenge at these places.