Rants – I love them and I love people who rant. Lewis Black, Dennis Leary (circa 1994) and my personal favorite Dr. Cox are all stellar ranters who make me laugh and in my opinion (flawed as it is) make sense. And let’s face it – all people rant. All of us are eager to share stories of terrible experiences, be it awful customer service, poor food quality, crappy movie viewings or some other slight to us as consumers.
I consider myself a ranter. I also consider myself someone who recognizes the need to reward instead of just ranting. As someone who has worked with the general public for 6+ years, I am hyper aware of poor customer service and experiences. That being said I also have developed an eye for the opposite. People and places DO go beyond what is expected. And they should be rewarded – if no where else than at least on the Flyer. That may not pay the bills, but as an employee of the public and as a manager of people I can tell you it means a lot to those who receive compliments instead of complaints.
I present to you “You’re Not a Bitch – You’re Bitching”
Where: Starbucks – next to Northwest Arkansas Florist (you know the painted horse)
Who: Brad, LittleBear and Jody
Why: I know it’s cool to hate on Starbucks. I know we have a local coffee shop in town that is really good. I also know that Starbucks is on my way to work. Brad and LittleBear (yes that’s his real name) are ridiculously friendly. I have been in line many times and they remember customer’s names and drinks. They always smile and if someone does not know what a drink is or asks for something by the wrong name they help them out. I have witnessed both of them explaining the difference between a cappuccino and a latte – with no air of cockiness or boredom. Jody is the manager. She has hired and kept a group of people who are consistently pleasant and helpful. So thank you to Jody, Brad and LittleBear for making spending a daily $4 a lot more awesome.
January 31st, 2008 at 3:16 pm
I totally agree. Those guys are way nice and patient; thanks for acknowledging them.
January 31st, 2008 at 4:52 pm
I can back her up on that. Those folks are super friendly. I like going there and I don’t even drink coffee.
January 31st, 2008 at 7:40 pm
I love the idea of a “props” column. Nice work.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:15 pm
I’m sure the people who work there are nice.
I’m sure the product is fine. I just don’t want Fayetteville to turn in to Anytown USA. I’m down with some local flavor.
Check it–> http://www.delocator.net/
February 1st, 2008 at 4:34 pm
maybe arsagas should steal lil’ bear from them.
February 1st, 2008 at 5:45 pm
and also drinks that don’t taste differently every time a different person makes them.
February 2nd, 2008 at 1:33 pm
starbucks employees are great!! its the company and their management practices that are questionable.
starbucks is a great example of a company that hides behind their fake green facade. do alittle googling and you can read for yo’self!! illegal firings, spying on employees, and more!!!
February 2nd, 2008 at 8:05 pm
http://www2.arkansasonline.com/news/2008/jan/29/restaurant-chain-nibbling-servers-tips-credit-card/
Check out what chains in our area did….
February 3rd, 2008 at 11:37 am
Susana: Fortunately, they decided not to go through with it. Check it out: Good News for Bonefish Grill Wait Staff
February 3rd, 2008 at 10:43 pm
Jarsh,
Yes, I saw that, but to even demoralize people like that is inexcusable.
Disgusting.
WHY!? I’d rather pay higher menu prices than take the money out of the hands of the wait staff!
February 5th, 2008 at 10:23 pm
As far as local goes I definetly think each town needs them but, on the flip side each and every town should be equipped with a Starbucks of their own because the consistency and friendliness with such awesome support from their management says something in its self. So…..GO JODY, BRAD, AND LITTLE BEAR AND THE REST OF THE FABULOUS STARBUCKS TEAM!!!!!!
February 6th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
On the flipside, the starbucks on the UA campus always provides slow service and consistently bad coffee. The Arsaga’s on campus is generally inconsistent in taste too, but savior MIKE makes the best coffee, is always friendly, and decorates the cabinets! More people should go the Arsaga’s route, at least on campus. The Starbuck’s by the flower shop is great though!