Ready for an Outer Banks Weekend, 10/11/2024
Oct 11, 2024
Starbucks
A simple lesson I learned in the customer service world is "get rid of friction points". For example, customer sign-up should be easy and seamless. By the way, except when my kids want money, I love Venmo. Customers are more apt to pay immediately because they don't have to wait for an invoice or mail a check.
Starbucks is a major brand with over 38,000 locations. You'd think they'd have the system down to a science. It's probably a bad sign when I place my order (coffee with cream) and they give me a funny look. Then they poke me to make sure I'm not computer generated. After thoroughly describing my drink the cashier sends my order to the barista who adds it to her orders just behind the iced, upside-down, caramel macchiato. With two straws! When this happens I find myself a seat because I know I'm going to be there a while. One time I waited so long I missed my birthday. Apparently, the cashier is not trained to pull the small lever on the coffee urn.
This is another reason to shop local. Front Porch Cafe takes your money and hands you a cup. Freakin' genius.
Chocolate!
I just read this blog post by Seth Godin where he describes the potential failures of making chocolate and mentions that we (the audience) can support an exceptional chocolate company in Western North Carolina that's recovering from the flood.
Eating chocolate. My favorite way to support businesses.
THINGS TO DO
Cantina Penny Draft Party, 10/14/24
Alas, it's that time of year for some of the businesses on the Outer Banks to shut down. Especially when they're exposed to the elements on a daily basis. The Coastal Cantina will be emptying the kegs and as a supportive community we need to provide assistance. It's the American thing to do.
Hay Rides and Pumpkins
Need a little entertainment for the kids? Stop by Grandy's Farm Market for hay rides and pumpkins. And pies. Especially the pies.
Gas Cans!
I have a small obsession with finding a good gas can. So many are complete crap. Allegedly built to prevent spills, many of them inherently leak. What's the point? So, when I find one that passes the test I am immediately ecstatic. I think this is a sign of old age.
A gas can must be easy to fill, easy to dispense, and not leak. Without being overly complicated.
I found one of these 5 gallon cans and it achieves all the above while adding a short, dispensing hose that allows you to direct the flow to the differing angles you may experience. My only beef is it can be a little difficult to add fuel treatment to the tank before adding gas, but I can make it work.
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Small Print
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Have a great weekend,
John Van Lunen
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