I'm responsible to/for, I go where I want, anytime I want, with whomever I want, or not at all. Kind of liking that right now
GG, I have a tennis friend who has been married twice but doesn't even want to be in a relationship again. He is a good tennis player but is now more interested in golf. He used to make good money in insurance and real estate, but now he is content to just glide through life.
He would like to spend 3 months in Florida this winter, he wants to experience that. He is thinking of Dec 1 to Feb 28. He is not particular about the place he is in. He wants to play lots of golf and if it is included in the price he could pay more. He would like to pay $1000 to $1200 a month. Preference is inland but on golf side, can be central or north Florida. He is very sociable, late 60s, a character that people like....outspoken but that can be a good quality . Likes to see new places and wander around, not in to bar scene or partying.
I can find a prefab park where he could have a nice unit for $1000 a month, but the people there aren't dynamic or sports minded enough. If you check vacation rentals all you get is $1000 a week places and places that sleep 4 or 8. How does someone go where there are other people he can play golf with and socialize.
btw......I recall a golder color too, more metallic, I think this Acura was more of the boring tan color...probably sold at a discount.
I was once talking about our incredible computer guy we have at the warehouse. He is a genius, his I.Q. must be off the charts, he knows computers and all related equipment inside and out, he is a hard worker, 100% honest and trustworthy, he always goes out of his way to help others, he has even become an excellent sales person even though he is like a fish out of water doing selling. And, he just completed a course in accounting.
He lives about 50 miles West of Toronto. Unfortunately the book business is downsizing and they can't afford to keep him on. Someone once mentioned their company was always on the lookout for good people...I think it was Explorer that said that.
Actually aubergines come in many colors so be careful what you wish for:
The main difference is that in Europe you can go into a showroom and ask for a nice aubergine colored car, in the US and Canada it would be more proper to ask for a nice Eggplant colored car...so, yes, there is a difference.
Obama had better give them a call and tell them to lower the price. Starts just below $30 grand and optioned out this thing is over $40 grand. Lots of nice cars out there at that price.
The Chevrolet Impala, long the standard-bearer for mediocre cars from Detroit, has made an amazing turnaround.
Yes it has.
And just for fun I went back to check the Consumer Reports ratings for various models cited in the article and lo and behold the Impala is at the top of the food chain. Whoopi! What is surprising though, is the rather dismal scores for the Buick and the Cadillac that are supposed to be identical. What gives?
s the rather dismal scores for the Buick and the Cadillac that are supposed to be identical. What gives?
I believe they lost points because of the difficult to use media centre. The Impala kept it simple probably for an older demographic, and so it is easier to use. But, then that makes you wonder how valid the scores are....so the car with less technology wins because it is simple to use.....does that really make for a better more interesting car?
Yup, I don't care how good it is...I couldn't put out $40 grand for an Impala.
You don't have to unless you want to. The top-of-line Impala 2LZ with tech package, 19" wheels, navigation, Bose and all the accoutrements can be had for around $36K. Unfortunately, you may have to pay an extra $891 for the White Diamond Tricoat paint color.
By the way, the Impala's technology is more sophisticated and simpler to use than the XTS.
As a car buyer, not a sales person, if I wanted a vehicle in a certain color and if the manufacturer charged more for that color, I would probably have to pay more for the vehicle in that color.
However, if a dealer simply charged more for a vehicle in a certain color I would balk. First I would attempt different dealers. If that did not work, I would either pay the difference, buy a different color, not buy, or look for a different vehicle.
There is nothing inherently wrong for a dealer to attempt to sell at a higher price for any reason. It is simply the market at work.
jwm...you'll get no argument from me. I don't choose to be alone. And, it's my fervent hope, that the situation is temporary. But, I'm far from lonely.
I've had two long term relationships in my life....one with my former wife (which also produced a great son), and one that just recently ended with my former GF.
I didn't want my marriage to end. That was all her.
On the other hand, I put an end to the relationship with the GF.
People ask me all the time..."what happened". Not wanting to get into minute details, I always tell them...."the first 99% of the time, the relationship was great...it was that last 1% was killer, though."
Driver...I know you like Florida. I've spent a lot of time down there, mostly in Orlando doing work with Lockheed, and in Miami working with Alienware. I really don't care for the state....not even in the winter time.
It seems the economy really hit FL harder in '07-'09 than anywhere else (well...maybe Detroit is the exception). It became depressing seeing large blocks of businesses and neighborhoods starting to turn into decay and neglect.
If/when I retire (got a long ways to go yet), it will probably be somewhere in the Gulf. I've actually toyed with the idea of Puerto Rico, which has all the benefits of living on U.S. soil, with fewer drawbacks (but no U.S. voting rights).
It would be easy if I were still single as my opinion would be the only one that matters. However, as you guys know, you give up quite a bit to maintain the single lifestyle.
My AC unit in my Boston townhouse stopped working. Went online, found an HVAC guy referred by Home Advisor.com; he showed up the very next day. Diagnosis? Blocked condensate pipe and low Freon levels. He cleaned the drain and charged the system with 10 lbs of R22 Freon. Total cost $648.
Two days later the AC system stopped working. Called the HVAC guy again, he showed up a week later, this time with bad news. The outdoor condenser unit is shot. To make a long story short, it will cost $3,000 for a replacement. No objection yet until he said the replacement unit is a 4-ton Payne R-22 Dry System.
What's that I asked? He said that since the old unit used R-22 Freon he could not replace the outdoor condenser unit with the new R-410 Freon mandated unit. So in other words it is illegal to install a new AC system with the old R-22 Freon but because of cost the EPA allows companies to manufacture the old systems but they must ship them dry, i.e. without Freon. The installer then can use either the old or the new Freon, which sounds like a scam to me.
If I were to go with a new R-410 condenser I would have to replace everything (inside and outside the condo) and the cost would balloon up to $7,500. Since this is a rental unit I saw no reason to spend the extra money if I can get away with it for another five years.
Bottom line--did I commit a crime to install the banned R-22 Freon condenser and has anyone had this experience lately? And what are the major differences (if any) between the old and the new Freon systems other than improved efficiency?
I hope you are shopping around. They should be able to replace the entire system for less than $5K and then get some rebates from NStar or National Grid.
I think you're getting the "it was 95 last week" price.
I would not call that color "Aubergine", which is French for eggplant. It would have to have considerably more black mixed in with the purple. Still, I guess Chevy and Macco can call it anything they like since no one is likely to complain except those pesky French Canadians.
By the way, Chevy is introducing some "wild" colors (their nomenclature, not mine) on some of their entry level models like Spark and Sonic, as their research has show that more personalized colors are very important to the millennials. One color being introduced is called Plum (a kind of darker magenta) and another is Pink (yucch!)
Shouldn't pink just be reserved for Mary Kay salespeople and mid-70s pimp Caddies? I've seen quite a few oddball colors on the 2000 and up version of the VW Beetle. I doubt any will stand the test of time.
Now give me a mint green 57 Thunderbird or mid-60s Amphicar and I can get behind those colors.
If you got the R-22 unit you did nothing illegal & probably made a good choice. I spoke with a HVAC client today and he reports they will likely quit making the R-410 unit by 2016. When exposed to normal household chemicals like hairsprayand others the R-410 seeps out of the copper tubing in all brands. Makers do not admit this but reps agree "off the record". My guy said he installed 175 R-410 units in 2011 & 2012 and over 125 have leaked enough to have to recharge.
EPA did not allow making or importing R-22 for the year of 2012 and this caused the price to greatly increase due to limited existing supply.
But if it's rental then tenants pay the utility bills, so "pay for itself" doesn't really apply, unless he can increase rent to reflect better comfort and lower utility bills.
What year was your current system installed? I'm sure since it's R-22 that a fairly high efficiency new system will pay for itself in a few years.
The original 10-SEER Carrier unit was installed in 1990. The Payne (a subsidiary of Carrier) replacement unit is rated at 13-SEER, the highest efficiency rating for an R-22 Dry System.
Dino is right. Since this is a rental unit I am less concerned about efficiency in the short run. As an empty nester, I am hoping to give up my suburban home and return to my city condo within five years. At that time I will make all the necessary upgrades including a new kitchen and bath. That's the plan anyway.
However, if a dealer simply charged more for a vehicle in a certain color I would balk. First I would attempt different dealers. If that did not work, I would either pay the difference, buy a different color, not buy, or look for a different vehicle.
When I was in the car business, I cannot remember ever charging more for a car because of color. I don't even remember "contemplating" selling a car for more because of color. I do remember selling a few cars for less because of an unwanted or outrageous color to reduce my inventory of that color.
There are a few manufacturers make cars in certain paint finishes and/or colors only at additional cost such as Diamond White or Pearl White, but those higher costs are reflected in the MSRP.
Dealers who attempt to make higher profits on cars that are painted in a color that is "hot" or in shorter supply usually end up hurting themselves in the long run by turning off their customers who in turn won't buy from that dealer again.
Dealers who attempt to make higher profits on cars that are painted in a color that is "hot" or in shorter supply usually end up hurting themselves in the long run by turning off their customers who in turn won't buy from that dealer again
Where were you a few days ago when someone thought it was fair to charge whatever the traffic would allow, more for a car in a color in high demand?
Did you go to Disneyland?
btw....I agree, a dealer can charge what he wants based on anything, even color....I just don't really want to buy a car from such a dealer. If that's his way of thinking, then I am not going to get along with him at some point. Discounting a car that won't sell because of it's color is fine, no problem.
Why would Mike go across the country to see something that is worse than what he has around the corner? We have Disney World in Florida , better than Disneyland. :P
BTW, on pricing this is the issue. Sometimes it sounds really great on paper to take advantage of momentary market inequilibrium by outlandish pricing short-supplied cars, like those huge ADMs on early Priuses, Solstices and Minis. As you said, there is a danger of hurting the business down the road due to lost reputation. It doesn't have to play out that way, many people have short memories, but it may. If I were a dealer, I'd tread carefully, times have changed, information spreads much faster and wider. Charging full sticker for a hot car is OK, if that's what market commands, adding some stupid overpriced accessories - not so great, but well, still within bounds (I wouldn't buy, but heck somebody may), especially if it's just one car in the showroom, but putting a flat out ADM - risky. It was SOP in the past, but in ere of internet and social media, the news of "gouging" dealer could spread like fire and make a lot of damage to the business.
BTW, same applies to a gas station owner marking up gas after a natural disaster, or a grocer charging high markup on batteries. All is needed, it's a picture posted on Youtube or Facebook and those quick profits may turn into nightmare.
Your example of a gas station owner marking up gas or a grocer marking up batteries after a disaster now, THOSE are good examples of price gouging. People desperately NEED these items in order to survive.
In 1990 Mazda hit the ball over the fence with their new Miatas. I knew a couple who paid 2000.00 over MSRP and were tickled to do so. At that time, that was the MARKET. If you wanted a new Miata, that is what it took to buy one. No reputations were hurt because that was the market everywhere.
The difference being, nobody NEEDED to own a Miata. They WANTED to own one.
MSRP is Manufactures SUGGESTED retail price. Most ars sell for that number or less but some (not many) will sell for more.
Is selling that Miata for 2000.00 over MSPR "taking advantage of the market"
You bet! Just like losing money on a poorly bought used car works the other way.
Having said that, I know I wouldn't get caught up in a market frenzy for a Miata, Prius or Mini but many do. It's their choice and their money.
You mean "Disney World" and no, we went to "Universal Studios Orlando" instead. Got to "Wizarding World Of Harry Potter," "Transformers: The Ride," "Shrek", "Men In Black", "Revenge Of The Mummy", "Disaster", "Spider-Man", several roller coasters (The Rocket especially where I left my liver and spleen) and my grandson went on several other rides "alone" (thank you very much). We also saw "Twister" one of the older shows.
Very costly - hotel, tickets, meals, tips, gas and tolls were over $2600 for 3 nights. I'll admit we went first class, but still I think $850+ a day is a bit much. I took him shopping and bought him clothes, sun glasses, sneakers, etc.
The Harry Potter and Transformer 3-D rides were the best - it's amazing what special effects the can film in 3-D - it's all because of those glasses they give you to wear. It rained every day but we had express tickets which saved us hours of standing in lines. The 2 parks were jammed every day. Food was outrageously priced, needless to say. The hotel (Portofino Bay) was quite nice. I tried to get into the Hard Rock but they were sold out at the club level.
I've probably told this story before, but why not? My Uncle ran a Dodge dealership right when the original Viper came out. Naturally, the first ones were not going out at sticker price. I can't remember specifics but I believe a Viper was 50k and dealers were looking for 75k plus. My Uncle unloaded his for quite a bit under that because it was sitting for a while. The other dealers were pissed at him for it. He explained the car did nothing sitting on the showroom floor !
I put gouging in quotation marks, i.e. I don't believe it, either. But it is not my opinion that matters. I'm talking perception in new media world. Nobody needs Miata, of course. However, a prospective customer walks in the showroom and sees ADM on Miata, takes a picture, makes a Facebook entry, his friends pick it up and bad opinion spreads like fire. It doesn't matter, whether they are "right" or "wrong". All people see and hear is don't trust XYZ Dealer because they gouge customers.
And again - I'm not saying that WILL happen, I'm saying the risk of such bad opinion spreading today is much higher than ten years ago. Perhaps that's one of the reasons why you don't see ADMs anymore, at least I have not in a while.
"Having said that, I know I wouldn't get caught up in a market frenzy for a Miata, Prius or Mini but many do. It's their choice and their money."
Isell--
As painful as it could be to have been an earlier adopter of those cars, think about those poor saps who paid big dealer mark-ups to be one of the first to own a PT Cruiser. Just a few years later Chrysler couldn't give them away. One of my colleagues--who hails from Detroit and is a Big 3 supporter--acknowledged that he was thrilled to finally unload his cruiser about 6 months ago--a real money pit. Same goes for the new Beetle, although it's decline was less precipitous and VW hasn't abandoned it altogether. I must admit that I have yet to see one of the new "more masculine" Beetles on the road. Are they selling? Selling to men?
The period of exclusivity is short, but the period of pain and suffering can linger for months, even years. I have no problem with dealer mark-up because of market demand--that's business. Personally, I would never pay more than MSRP because I can wait, but I think I understand the motivation to have something--if only briefly--that few others have. The only way to perpetuate that sense of uniqueness, though, is to buy something that is truly exclusive (like the Aston Martin I saw on I-94 near Chicago on a road trip a few days ago) or to own a auto pariah like, say, a Yugo. I rarely saw Yugos even though I lived in a large city for part of their brief manufacturing tenure.
The one pariah I can think of now is that awful Nissan Murano convertible. Anyone here want to be part of that exclusive club? It's supposed to appeal to women. Kirstie?
We have Disney World in Florida , better than Disneyland.
Sorry about mixing up the Disneys....should have just said Wally World. I have been to both but the last time was about 30 years ago, so I just call them Disneyland interchangeably...had no idea anyone would get offended at mixing them up. I guess it's like mixing up Ireland and Scotland.
If a particular model is in short supply then the dealer can take advantage of the market situation. I don't trust my first BMW dealer any more because when I ordered my 2008 328 Cabriolet for November delivery he said I had to pay full list price because the dealer was only allowed 2 cars a month. I didn't have much choice so I went ahead. Since then I have found out that dealer sells cars at full price all the time....manager said they only take $1500 off a current year car when newer models come in.
Knowing that I probably would have shopped around. I believed him because the story sounded plausable. Since my last experience with this dealer, they have lost their credibility with me. They would be last on my list of dealers to check.
So, I think you are right dino, a dealer can lose customers by trying to take advantage.
You mean "Disney World" and no, we went to "Universal Studios Orlando" instead.
Sorry about the mix up...getting Disneyland and world mixed up is like not knowing the capital of the USA.
Glad you had a good time and your grandson will have great memories.....but, you deserve a gold medal for going on those rides. I have no idea why people do that!
Actually, I had no idea how "bad" it was going to be. When I got buckled in with my grandson, we started out and, in 10 seconds, we were going completely VERTICAL - like straight up, not 45 degree angle, a 90 degree angle VERTICAL.
The ride lasted about 4 minutes, and I prayed for it to end every single second of the 4 minutes. Like I said, I had no idea how bad it was going to be - hope someone finds my liver and spleen!
That's when I let my grandson go on all the roller coasters or rides like that all by himself while and I sat and sipped a diet coke.
But the other rides were great - Potter and Transformers. And, like I said, once in a lifetime - no more - for that kind of money!!!!
"...I prayed for it to end every single second..."
A few years ago we went to Universal and my son talked me into going on one of those wild roller coasters. One anxiety reduction technique I learned is to laugh when you're nervous. Needless to say I was howling all during the ride.
When we were leaving I heard a woman behind us say to her boyfriend "why were you so scared? That old guy was having a ball!"
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
In 1990 Mazda hit the ball over the fence with their new Miatas. I knew a couple who paid 2000.00 over MSRP and were tickled to do so. At that time, that was the MARKET. If you wanted a new Miata, that is what it took to buy one.
This is most certainly true and goes a long way toward explaining why my first one was a '91, bought late in March in the middle of the week on a rainy evening. Great car -- very decent price.
I didn't buy a Datsun 240 until '73 for many of the same reasons. Got somewhat screwed anyway that time, but I was much younger then.
A few years ago we went to Universal and my son talked me into going on one of those wild roller coasters.
You have to understand one thing - this Rocket Coaster runs through many parts of the front of the park and is well hidden. If I knew I was going to go completely vertical 10 seconds into the ride, you couldn't get me on that thing for all the tea in China, as the adage goes. But because I had no idea what I was getting into, I was like a lamb being brought to slaughter. Let me tell you - I was slaughtered and quartered and then left for dead!
>The ride lasted about 4 minutes, and I prayed for it to end every single second of the 4 minutes. Like I said, I had no idea how bad it was going to be - hope someone finds my liver and spleen!
At least you didn't fall out like the unfortunate lady at Six Flags. Terrible that she wasn't fastened in correctly or whatever went wrong.
My Dad, my grandson and I went out for our last dinner together this evening before my grandson flies home to California tomorrow afternoon. It was the worst experience I have ever had in a restaurant.
We were escorted to our table and our waiter introduced himself to us. He took our orders and about 20 minutes later another waiter brought us our appetizer which was a "bloom" of fried onions. We sat there waiting for plates, forks, napkins, etc., for 10 minutes, but no one came with any of the above-mentioned items. I finally left the table after informing another waiter we needed help (who also never returned) and sought out the manager. I asked him if he thought it was appropriate to serve food before plates, napkins and flatware were brought to the table - and then have to sit and wait over 10 minutes and have no one respond to repeated requests. He responded "NO" of course and got us the items I requested. Of course the appetizer was cold by then and they did not offer to get us a fresh appetizer.
When the entrees were delivered, my Dad took several bites of his steak and had to spit out the bites because the steak was so tough - just plain impossible to chew and swallow. I tried to get a waiter's attention, but to no avail. So I gave my Dad my steak, which was a little more tender - but not much - so he would have something to eat. Meanwhile, I had no dinner because of that. The manager never returned to our table to make sure we were being taken care of and our waiter didn't return until the end with our tab.
I was so furious that I got up, put cash on the table to cover the bill and handed the waiter a quarter - saying "...this is much more than you or any of the other servers deserve..."! I then walked out and when I got home, I told my story on their Facebook page. Needless to say, that Coral Springs restaurant will never see me again!!!
Wow, totally unacceptable. I wouldn't have paid for that steak. I know I would have been really upset. My wife and I love to eat out and in the odd chance we have a bad meal we both feel cheated. Luckily, here in Jersey no shortage of great restaurants.
Last night my wife and other members of the family took me to Fogo De Chao in center city Philadelphia for my birthday, I'm still full from all that amazingly seasoned meat. We all loved it, but for someone watching their salt intake maybe not the best place!
At least you didn't fall out like the unfortunate lady at Six Flags. Terrible that she wasn't fastened in correctly or whatever went wrong.
What a tragedy, I've been on rides like that refused to start because someone wasn't fully secured, I hope they find out exactly what happened to prevent problems in the future.
Ibf a particular model is in short supply then the dealer can take advantage of the market situation. I don't trust my first BMW dealer any more because when I ordered my 2008 328 Cabriolet for November delivery he said I had to pay full list price because the dealer was only allowed 2 cars a month. I didn't have much choice so I went ahead. Since then I have found out that dealer sells cars at full price all the time....manager said they only take $1500 off a current year car when newer models come in.
Uhh, that's called the law of supply and demand... not the law of "taking advantage". Big difference.
You write the car you wanted was in short supply. Whatever excuse the sales manager gave, you were still going to pay MSRP. Probably full sticker if you went to another dealership. So why so irrate? At least you weren't charged extra for the color of car you chose.
I'd also like to register my disappointment in you mixing up the Disney's. I've never been so offended. :mad:
I'd also like to register my disappointment in you mixing up the Disney's. I've never been so offended
Yes, jipster, definitely a disappointment - especially since *driver has a condo near Tampa which is only 60-70 miles from Disney World.
But, we also have to consider the source, right?
I know *driver apologized for his "senior moment" regarding the mix-up, but for those of us who live here in Florida and depend upon the taxes the vacationers pay while visiting Orlando, we need to make sure future tourists know where these parks are:
Disneyland - Anaheim, California Universal Studios Hollywood - Hollywood California Knottsberry Farm - Orange County, California Disney World - just outside Orlando, Florida Universal Studios Orlando - Orlando Florda Busch Gardens - Tampa, Florida Sea World - Orlando, Florida Area SeaWorld West - Orange County, California
Future Tourists, if you have any further questions as to where to spend your vacation at Disney or Universal Studios Orlando, email "*driver" in Toronto, Canada!!!
Sorry about the mix up...getting Disneyland and world mixed up is like not knowing the capital of the USA.
Just so there is no confusion about the U.S. capital, it is Washington, D.C. The D.C. stands for District of Corruption.
In the House vote last week to stop the N.S.A. from collecting info on all of us, the vote narrowly failed..about 207 to 215 with 12 more who did not vote.
The vote was not along party lines, but along the lines where the defense dept. related businesses had contributed the most money over the past few years.
Those voting to continue the snooping collected an average of about $40,000. in contributions and those voting to stop the snooping received an average of $18,000. over the same period. Follow the money.
That was a horrible restaurant experience, and I have to tell you about the one we had on Friday. We have been to this retaurant twice in the last few months and it was excellent...I gave it 5 out of 5 on Trip Advisor where I am a Top Contributor.
We went with another couple who were really looking forward to this fabulous dinner we had told them about.
We have had 2 wonderful meals at CT in the last 3 months, but the meal we had on Friday July 26th was a bad experience. We went with friends and we had really built up CT because we were 2 for 2, perfect 5 out of 5 each time.
The meal started off nicely with a delicious salad with raspberry vinagarette dressing, and fresh bread with cranberries....so far very pleasant.
My wife specifically asked what sides came with the Trout with cream and dill sauce. She was specifically told it comes with potatoes. She is not a big fan of rice so she chose the Trout. The rest of us (3 people) also chose Trout. When the dishes were delivered they all had rice as a side dish. My wife was very disappointed (she would prefer the potatoes to the Trout and would have ordered a different dish if she had known) and asked that the rice be exchanged for potatoes. She was told the kitchen was completely out of potatoes. As if that wasn't bad enough, we observed about 5 minutes later, the table next to us got their orders, and on all 4 dishes had potatoes!
Being given wrong information, and then not fixing the problem, and then being lied to are past the point of salvaging the dinner, but it got worse.
Dishes were removed from the table very slowly, many people who finished eating after us had their plates cleared before us. The trout was OK but the sauce didn't do much for it, seemed like a cream sauce from a can. The meal could have been brightenned up with Strawberry or Pineapple Salso or something more lively. On previous visits the vegetables were a medley of various items...this time 2 spears of asparagus (some got 3).
Then the desserts were presented after the meal. We had excellent chocolate cheesecake and a Triple Chocolate cake on the previous visits, these desserts didn't even look appetizing. One of us opted out on the desserts, and 3 of us chose Blueberry Cheesecake. The waitress took our orders and then returned to tell us there was only one cheesecake left. So 2 of us chose Cherry - Raspberry pie. I would say the pie was one step better than one of those $1.99 A&P Jane Parker pies people used to buy. Just filled with a jam concoction, and sugary. My wife said the cheesecake was not good at all.
We felt sorry for our waitress who was a student and she was way overworked trying to look after too many tables and not being taught properly how to do her job. She was very pleasant and was trying, but, she was overwhelmed. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------- This place used to be empty on weekends, then they started a 2 can dine for $40...gourmet meals, and they are packed now. I think now they are too full of their own success and are taking short cuts. They built up their business and now they are going to ruin it. Kinda like any car dealership who would charge more based on color
I recommended CF to many people and now I will have to warn them not to go. It is too bad, it really shows how careful a restaurant has to be if they want to keep their customers coming back.
Uhh, that's called the law of supply and demand... not the law of "taking advantage". Big difference.
If it makes your conscience feel better, call it the "law of supply and demand". Just joking....I actually think we came to somewhat of an agreement. In my case the dealer may be honest, saying he can only get 2 Cabriolets a month so I have to get my order in fast and the car sells at full MSRP, or he might be BSing me. Judging from past experience I can't trust the dealer, so in my mind I will call it "the law of taking advantage", at least until it can be proven otherwise.
I'd also like to register my disappointment in you mixing up the Disney's. I've never been so offended You are a funny boy. I am really sorry, I hope this won't be grounds for customs not to permit me into the country ever again. I am truly sorry if I have offended anyone, including Mike and Mickey.
Comments
Yes, but you will have to pay an extra $250 because they are selling out fast!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
GG, I have a tennis friend who has been married twice but doesn't even want to be in a relationship again. He is a good tennis player but is now more interested in golf. He used to make good money in insurance and real estate, but now he is content to just glide through life.
He would like to spend 3 months in Florida this winter, he wants to experience that. He is thinking of Dec 1 to Feb 28. He is not particular about the place he is in. He wants to play lots of golf and if it is included in the price he could pay more. He would like to pay $1000 to $1200 a month. Preference is inland but on golf side, can be central or north Florida.
He is very sociable, late 60s, a character that people like....outspoken but that can be a good quality
I can find a prefab park where he could have a nice unit for $1000 a month, but the people there aren't dynamic or sports minded enough. If you check vacation rentals all you get is $1000 a week places and places that sleep 4 or 8. How does someone go where there are other people he can play golf with and socialize.
btw......I recall a golder color too, more metallic, I think this Acura was more of the boring tan color...probably sold at a discount.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I would agree completely, BUT, if you find the right person life will be the best of all.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Yes, but you will have to pay an extra $250 because they are selling out fast!
Driver, is aubergine available only with certain models? I don't see it in the color palette on the Chevy website.
An interviewer on CNBC just asked the Consumer Reports guy if the white house called them up and ordered them to give GM cars better reviews. Ha ha.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Yes, it is available, but you have to see Maaco.
Or you could buy this 2004 Chevy:
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
That's funny. I guess if Obama can get involved in court cases he can get involved with the auto magazines.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
He lives about 50 miles West of Toronto. Unfortunately the book business is downsizing and they can't afford to keep him on. Someone once mentioned their company was always on the lookout for good people...I think it was Explorer that said that.
If anyone knows anything about that let me know.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
You too funny. By the way, this is the Canadian aubergine. I was more interested in the European hue.
Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm...the European "hue".
Actually aubergines come in many colors so be careful what you wish for:
The main difference is that in Europe you can go into a showroom and ask for a nice aubergine colored car, in the US and Canada it would be more proper to ask for a nice Eggplant colored car...so, yes, there is a difference.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
Yes it has.
And just for fun I went back to check the Consumer Reports ratings for various models cited in the article and lo and behold the Impala is at the top of the food chain. Whoopi! What is surprising though, is the rather dismal scores for the Buick and the Cadillac that are supposed to be identical. What gives?
Chevy Impala (V6).....95
Audi A6.....................93
Lexus LS460L............92
Avalon Limited...........85
Cadillac XTS..............79
Buick LaCrosse (V6)...74
Yup, I don't care how good it is...I couldn't put out $40 grand for an Impala.
Even if it was aubergine colored;
It just doesn't move me.....................
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I believe they lost points because of the difficult to use media centre. The Impala kept it simple probably for an older demographic, and so it is easier to use. But, then that makes you wonder how valid the scores are....so the car with less technology wins because it is simple to use.....does that really make for a better more interesting car?
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
You don't have to unless you want to. The top-of-line Impala 2LZ with tech package, 19" wheels, navigation, Bose and all the accoutrements can be had for around $36K. Unfortunately, you may have to pay an extra $891 for the White Diamond Tricoat paint color.
By the way, the Impala's technology is more sophisticated and simpler to use than the XTS.
2018 430i Gran Coupe
However, if a dealer simply charged more for a vehicle in a certain color I would balk. First I would attempt different dealers. If that did not work, I would either pay the difference, buy a different color, not buy, or look for a different vehicle.
There is nothing inherently wrong for a dealer to attempt to sell at a higher price for any reason. It is simply the market at work.
I think we got distracted due to driver's shenanigans.
The dealer is not charging more for a specific color. He's giving less of a discount for the unpopular color (I think jip phrased it liked this.)
Having said that if the OP was placing a factory order, all colors should cost the same (obviously metal/fancy colors would cost a bit more.)
I've had two long term relationships in my life....one with my former wife (which also produced a great son), and one that just recently ended with my former GF.
I didn't want my marriage to end. That was all her.
On the other hand, I put an end to the relationship with the GF.
People ask me all the time..."what happened". Not wanting to get into minute details, I always tell them...."the first 99% of the time, the relationship was great...it was that last 1% was killer, though."
Driver...I know you like Florida. I've spent a lot of time down there, mostly in Orlando doing work with Lockheed, and in Miami working with Alienware. I really don't care for the state....not even in the winter time.
It seems the economy really hit FL harder in '07-'09 than anywhere else (well...maybe Detroit is the exception). It became depressing seeing large blocks of businesses and neighborhoods starting to turn into decay and neglect.
If/when I retire (got a long ways to go yet), it will probably be somewhere in the Gulf. I've actually toyed with the idea of Puerto Rico, which has all the benefits of living on U.S. soil, with fewer drawbacks (but no U.S. voting rights).
It would be easy if I were still single as my opinion would be the only one that matters. However, as you guys know, you give up quite a bit to maintain the single lifestyle.
Two days later the AC system stopped working. Called the HVAC guy again, he showed up a week later, this time with bad news. The outdoor condenser unit is shot. To make a long story short, it will cost $3,000 for a replacement. No objection yet until he said the replacement unit is a 4-ton Payne R-22 Dry System.
What's that I asked? He said that since the old unit used R-22 Freon he could not replace the outdoor condenser unit with the new R-410 Freon mandated unit. So in other words it is illegal to install a new AC system with the old R-22 Freon but because of cost the EPA allows companies to manufacture the old systems but they must ship them dry, i.e. without Freon. The installer then can use either the old or the new Freon, which sounds like a scam to me.
If I were to go with a new R-410 condenser I would have to replace everything (inside and outside the condo) and the cost would balloon up to $7,500. Since this is a rental unit I saw no reason to spend the extra money if I can get away with it for another five years.
Bottom line--did I commit a crime to install the banned R-22 Freon condenser and has anyone had this experience lately? And what are the major differences (if any) between the old and the new Freon systems other than improved efficiency?
I think you're getting the "it was 95 last week" price.
Or you could buy this 2004 Chevy"
Driver--
I would not call that color "Aubergine", which is French for eggplant. It would have to have considerably more black mixed in with the purple. Still, I guess Chevy and Macco can call it anything they like since no one is likely to complain except those pesky French Canadians.
By the way, Chevy is introducing some "wild" colors (their nomenclature, not mine) on some of their entry level models like Spark and Sonic, as their research has show that more personalized colors are very important to the millennials. One color being introduced is called Plum (a kind of darker magenta) and another is Pink (yucch!)
Shouldn't pink just be reserved for Mary Kay salespeople and mid-70s pimp Caddies? I've seen quite a few oddball colors on the 2000 and up version of the VW Beetle. I doubt any will stand the test of time.
Now give me a mint green 57 Thunderbird or mid-60s Amphicar and I can get behind those colors.
Gogiboy
EPA did not allow making or importing R-22 for the year of 2012 and this caused the price to greatly increase due to limited existing supply.
What year was your current system installed? I'm sure since it's R-22 that a fairly high efficiency new system will pay for itself in a few years.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
2018 430i Gran Coupe
The original 10-SEER Carrier unit was installed in 1990. The Payne (a subsidiary of Carrier) replacement unit is rated at 13-SEER, the highest efficiency rating for an R-22 Dry System.
Dino is right. Since this is a rental unit I am less concerned about efficiency in the short run. As an empty nester, I am hoping to give up my suburban home and return to my city condo within five years. At that time I will make all the necessary upgrades including a new kitchen and bath. That's the plan anyway.
When I was in the car business, I cannot remember ever charging more for a car because of color. I don't even remember "contemplating" selling a car for more because of color. I do remember selling a few cars for less because of an unwanted or outrageous color to reduce my inventory of that color.
There are a few manufacturers make cars in certain paint finishes and/or colors only at additional cost such as Diamond White or Pearl White, but those higher costs are reflected in the MSRP.
Dealers who attempt to make higher profits on cars that are painted in a color that is "hot" or in shorter supply usually end up hurting themselves in the long run by turning off their customers who in turn won't buy from that dealer again.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Where were you a few days ago when someone thought it was fair to charge whatever the traffic would allow, more for a car in a color in high demand?
Did you go to Disneyland?
btw....I agree, a dealer can charge what he wants based on anything, even color....I just don't really want to buy a car from such a dealer. If that's his way of thinking, then I am not going to get along with him at some point. Discounting a car that won't sell because of it's color is fine, no problem.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Why would Mike go across the country to see something that is worse than what he has around the corner? We have Disney World in Florida , better than Disneyland.
BTW, on pricing this is the issue. Sometimes it sounds really great on paper to take advantage of momentary market inequilibrium by outlandish pricing short-supplied cars, like those huge ADMs on early Priuses, Solstices and Minis. As you said, there is a danger of hurting the business down the road due to lost reputation. It doesn't have to play out that way, many people have short memories, but it may. If I were a dealer, I'd tread carefully, times have changed, information spreads much faster and wider. Charging full sticker for a hot car is OK, if that's what market commands, adding some stupid overpriced accessories - not so great, but well, still within bounds (I wouldn't buy, but heck somebody may), especially if it's just one car in the showroom, but putting a flat out ADM - risky. It was SOP in the past, but in ere of internet and social media, the news of "gouging" dealer could spread like fire and make a lot of damage to the business.
BTW, same applies to a gas station owner marking up gas after a natural disaster, or a grocer charging high markup on batteries. All is needed, it's a picture posted on Youtube or Facebook and those quick profits may turn into nightmare.
2018 430i Gran Coupe
Your example of a gas station owner marking up gas or a grocer marking up batteries after a disaster now, THOSE are good examples of price gouging. People desperately NEED these items in order to survive.
In 1990 Mazda hit the ball over the fence with their new Miatas. I knew a couple who paid 2000.00 over MSRP and were tickled to do so. At that time, that was the MARKET. If you wanted a new Miata, that is what it took to buy one. No reputations were hurt because that was the market everywhere.
The difference being, nobody NEEDED to own a Miata. They WANTED to own one.
MSRP is Manufactures SUGGESTED retail price. Most ars sell for that number or less but some (not many) will sell for more.
Is selling that Miata for 2000.00 over MSPR "taking advantage of the market"
You bet! Just like losing money on a poorly bought used car works the other way.
Having said that, I know I wouldn't get caught up in a market frenzy for a Miata, Prius or Mini but many do. It's their choice and their money.
It is NOT "gouging"!
You mean "Disney World" and no, we went to "Universal Studios Orlando" instead. Got to "Wizarding World Of Harry Potter," "Transformers: The Ride," "Shrek", "Men In Black", "Revenge Of The Mummy", "Disaster", "Spider-Man", several roller coasters (The Rocket especially where I left my liver and spleen) and my grandson went on several other rides "alone" (thank you very much). We also saw "Twister" one of the older shows.
Very costly - hotel, tickets, meals, tips, gas and tolls were over $2600 for 3 nights. I'll admit we went first class, but still I think $850+ a day is a bit much. I took him shopping and bought him clothes, sun glasses, sneakers, etc.
The Harry Potter and Transformer 3-D rides were the best - it's amazing what special effects the can film in 3-D - it's all because of those glasses they give you to wear. It rained every day but we had express tickets which saved us hours of standing in lines. The 2 parks were jammed every day. Food was outrageously priced, needless to say. The hotel (Portofino Bay) was quite nice. I tried to get into the Hard Rock but they were sold out at the club level.
Definitely worth one trip with the grandson!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
And again - I'm not saying that WILL happen, I'm saying the risk of such bad opinion spreading today is much higher than ten years ago. Perhaps that's one of the reasons why you don't see ADMs anymore, at least I have not in a while.
2018 430i Gran Coupe
Isell--
As painful as it could be to have been an earlier adopter of those cars, think about those poor saps who paid big dealer mark-ups to be one of the first to own a PT Cruiser. Just a few years later Chrysler couldn't give them away. One of my colleagues--who hails from Detroit and is a Big 3 supporter--acknowledged that he was thrilled to finally unload his cruiser about 6 months ago--a real money pit. Same goes for the new Beetle, although it's decline was less precipitous and VW hasn't abandoned it altogether. I must admit that I have yet to see one of the new "more masculine" Beetles on the road. Are they selling? Selling to men?
The period of exclusivity is short, but the period of pain and suffering can linger for months, even years. I have no problem with dealer mark-up because of market demand--that's business. Personally, I would never pay more than MSRP because I can wait, but I think I understand the motivation to have something--if only briefly--that few others have. The only way to perpetuate that sense of uniqueness, though, is to buy something that is truly exclusive (like the Aston Martin I saw on I-94 near Chicago on a road trip a few days ago) or to own a auto pariah like, say, a Yugo. I rarely saw Yugos even though I lived in a large city for part of their brief manufacturing tenure.
The one pariah I can think of now is that awful Nissan Murano convertible. Anyone here want to be part of that exclusive club? It's supposed to appeal to women. Kirstie?
Gogiboy
Sorry about mixing up the Disneys....should have just said Wally World. I have been to both but the last time was about 30 years ago, so I just call them Disneyland interchangeably...had no idea anyone would get offended at mixing them up. I guess it's like mixing up Ireland and Scotland.
If a particular model is in short supply then the dealer can take advantage of the market situation. I don't trust my first BMW dealer any more because when I ordered my 2008 328 Cabriolet for November delivery he said I had to pay full list price because the dealer was only allowed 2 cars a month. I didn't have much choice so I went ahead. Since then I have found out that dealer sells cars at full price all the time....manager said they only take $1500 off a current year car when newer models come in.
Knowing that I probably would have shopped around. I believed him because the story sounded plausable. Since my last experience with this dealer, they have lost their credibility with me. They would be last on my list of dealers to check.
So, I think you are right dino, a dealer can lose customers by trying to take advantage.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Sorry about the mix up...getting Disneyland and world mixed up is like not knowing the capital of the USA.
Glad you had a good time and your grandson will have great memories.....but, you deserve a gold medal for going on those rides. I have no idea why people do that!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Actually, I had no idea how "bad" it was going to be. When I got buckled in with my grandson, we started out and, in 10 seconds, we were going completely VERTICAL - like straight up, not 45 degree angle, a 90 degree angle VERTICAL.
The ride lasted about 4 minutes, and I prayed for it to end every single second of the 4 minutes. Like I said, I had no idea how bad it was going to be - hope someone finds my liver and spleen!
That's when I let my grandson go on all the roller coasters or rides like that all by himself while and I sat and sipped a diet coke.
But the other rides were great - Potter and Transformers. And, like I said, once in a lifetime - no more - for that kind of money!!!!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
A few years ago we went to Universal and my son talked me into going on one of those wild roller coasters. One anxiety reduction technique I learned is to laugh when you're nervous. Needless to say I was howling all during the ride.
When we were leaving I heard a woman behind us say to her boyfriend "why were you so scared? That old guy was having a ball!"
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
This is most certainly true and goes a long way toward explaining why my first one was a '91, bought late in March in the middle of the week on a rainy evening. Great car -- very decent price.
I didn't buy a Datsun 240 until '73 for many of the same reasons. Got somewhat screwed anyway that time, but I was much younger then.
You have to understand one thing - this Rocket Coaster runs through many parts of the front of the park and is well hidden. If I knew I was going to go completely vertical 10 seconds into the ride, you couldn't get me on that thing for all the tea in China, as the adage goes. But because I had no idea what I was getting into, I was like a lamb being brought to slaughter. Let me tell you - I was slaughtered and quartered and then left for dead!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
At least you didn't fall out like the unfortunate lady at Six Flags. Terrible that she wasn't fastened in correctly or whatever went wrong.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
We were escorted to our table and our waiter introduced himself to us. He took our orders and about 20 minutes later another waiter brought us our appetizer which was a "bloom" of fried onions. We sat there waiting for plates, forks, napkins, etc., for 10 minutes, but no one came with any of the above-mentioned items. I finally left the table after informing another waiter we needed help (who also never returned) and sought out the manager. I asked him if he thought it was appropriate to serve food before plates, napkins and flatware were brought to the table - and then have to sit and wait over 10 minutes and have no one respond to repeated requests. He responded "NO" of course and got us the items I requested. Of course the appetizer was cold by then and they did not offer to get us a fresh appetizer.
When the entrees were delivered, my Dad took several bites of his steak and had to spit out the bites because the steak was so tough - just plain impossible to chew and swallow. I tried to get a waiter's attention, but to no avail. So I gave my Dad my steak, which was a little more tender - but not much - so he would have something to eat. Meanwhile, I had no dinner because of that. The manager never returned to our table to make sure we were being taken care of and our waiter didn't return until the end with our tab.
I was so furious that I got up, put cash on the table to cover the bill and handed the waiter a quarter - saying "...this is much more than you or any of the other servers deserve..."! I then walked out and when I got home, I told my story on their Facebook page. Needless to say, that Coral Springs restaurant will never see me again!!!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Last night my wife and other members of the family took me to Fogo De Chao in center city Philadelphia for my birthday, I'm still full from all that amazingly seasoned meat. We all loved it, but for someone watching their salt intake maybe not the best place!
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
What a tragedy, I've been on rides like that refused to start because someone wasn't fully secured, I hope they find out exactly what happened to prevent problems in the future.
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
Uhh, that's called the law of supply and demand... not the law of "taking advantage". Big difference.
You write the car you wanted was in short supply. Whatever excuse the sales manager gave, you were still going to pay MSRP. Probably full sticker if you went to another dealership. So why so irrate? At least you weren't charged extra for the color of car you chose.
I'd also like to register my disappointment in you mixing up the Disney's. I've never been so offended. :mad:
Yes, jipster, definitely a disappointment - especially since *driver has a condo near Tampa which is only 60-70 miles from Disney World.
But, we also have to consider the source, right?
I know *driver apologized for his "senior moment" regarding the mix-up, but for those of us who live here in Florida and depend upon the taxes the vacationers pay while visiting Orlando, we need to make sure future tourists know where these parks are:
Disneyland - Anaheim, California
Universal Studios Hollywood - Hollywood California
Knottsberry Farm - Orange County, California
Disney World - just outside Orlando, Florida
Universal Studios Orlando - Orlando Florda
Busch Gardens - Tampa, Florida
Sea World - Orlando, Florida Area
SeaWorld West - Orange County, California
Future Tourists, if you have any further questions as to where to spend your vacation at Disney or Universal Studios Orlando, email "*driver" in Toronto, Canada!!!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Just so there is no confusion about the U.S. capital, it is Washington, D.C. The D.C. stands for District of Corruption.
In the House vote last week to stop the N.S.A. from collecting info on all of us, the vote narrowly failed..about 207 to 215 with 12 more who did not vote.
The vote was not along party lines, but along the lines where the defense dept. related businesses had contributed the most money over the past few years.
Those voting to continue the snooping collected an average of about $40,000. in contributions and those voting to stop the snooping received an average of $18,000. over the same period. Follow the money.
Probably just a coincidence. (NOT)
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
We went with another couple who were really looking forward to this fabulous dinner we had told them about.
We have had 2 wonderful meals at CT in the last 3 months, but the meal we had on Friday July 26th was a bad experience. We went with friends and we had really built up CT because we were 2 for 2, perfect 5 out of 5 each time.
The meal started off nicely with a delicious salad with raspberry vinagarette dressing, and fresh bread with cranberries....so far very pleasant.
My wife specifically asked what sides came with the Trout with cream and dill sauce. She was specifically told it comes with potatoes. She is not a big fan of rice so she chose the Trout. The rest of us (3 people) also chose Trout. When the dishes were delivered they all had rice as a side dish. My wife was very disappointed (she would prefer the potatoes to the Trout and would have ordered a different dish if she had known) and asked that the rice be exchanged for potatoes. She was told the kitchen was completely out of potatoes. As if that wasn't bad enough, we observed about 5 minutes later, the table next to us got their orders, and on all 4 dishes had potatoes!
Being given wrong information, and then not fixing the problem, and then being lied to are past the point of salvaging the dinner, but it got worse.
Dishes were removed from the table very slowly, many people who finished eating after us had their plates cleared before us. The trout was OK but the sauce didn't do much for it, seemed like a cream sauce from a can. The meal could have been brightenned up with Strawberry or Pineapple Salso or something more lively. On previous visits the vegetables were a medley of various items...this time 2 spears of asparagus (some got 3).
Then the desserts were presented after the meal. We had excellent chocolate cheesecake and a Triple Chocolate cake on the previous visits, these desserts didn't even look appetizing. One of us opted out on the desserts, and 3 of us chose Blueberry Cheesecake. The waitress took our orders and then returned to tell us there was only one cheesecake left. So 2 of us chose Cherry - Raspberry pie. I would say the pie was one step better than one of those $1.99 A&P Jane Parker pies people used to buy. Just filled with a jam concoction, and sugary. My wife said the cheesecake was not good at all.
We felt sorry for our waitress who was a student and she was way overworked trying to look after too many tables and not being taught properly how to do her job. She was very pleasant and was trying, but, she was overwhelmed.
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This place used to be empty on weekends, then they started a 2 can dine for $40...gourmet meals, and they are packed now. I think now they are too full of their own success and are taking short cuts. They built up their business and now they are going to ruin it. Kinda like any car dealership who would charge more based on color
I recommended CF to many people and now I will have to warn them not to go. It is too bad, it really shows how careful a restaurant has to be if they want to keep their customers coming back.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
If it makes your conscience feel better, call it the "law of supply and demand".
Just joking....I actually think we came to somewhat of an agreement. In my case the dealer may be honest, saying he can only get 2 Cabriolets a month so I have to get my order in fast and the car sells at full MSRP, or he might be BSing me. Judging from past experience I can't trust the dealer, so in my mind I will call it "the law of taking advantage", at least until it can be proven otherwise.
I'd also like to register my disappointment in you mixing up the Disney's. I've never been so offended
You are a funny boy. I am really sorry, I hope this won't be grounds for customs not to permit me into the country ever again. I am truly sorry if I have offended anyone, including Mike and Mickey.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250