Does your lumber company or supplier offer any perks?
My main lumber and millwork supplier has season tickets to the Astros. My sales reps calls several times during the season offering the tickets. Considering the seat prices, this is a $220.00 gift / thank you for your business perk each time I receive the tickets.
They have two four seat sections. One is in the Club Section, one level up from the field, exclusive (you must have club section ticket to enter), upgrade food, restaurants having tables with field views, waiters at each seat section, etc.
The other section is my favorite, it is 5 rows up from the visitors dugout. I can tell if the players shaved before the game, and I would be a closer throw for the third baseman than if he were throwing to first, but he never throws to me.
They also give me a “short walk to the Minute Maid Park” parking pass.
Today (Sunday), we sat in the dugout section. I took my wife, 7 year old son and a friend of my son. We watched the Astros beat the Pirates 7-2. I took some pics from our seats, but the wife has the camera. Will post later.
They have also bought and started offering Texans Football tickets. So far the 4 tickets, have included a parking pass with all food and drinks covered.
They also do a great job with lumber and millwork.
Edited 4/24/2006 12:22 am ET by txlandlord
Replies
We get these from my wifes employer. They come from a film/paper supplier. Comerica in Detroit. Good spot, ump doesn't get in the way. My local yard has some down the left field line in Cleve. I'm in with a group for a few games at the Jake, 9 rows up-end of dugout and 10 back, just right of the plate. There may be no bad seats in these new stadiums, but there are certainly "better" . I love baseball, most customers know I'll go anytime. Been lucky with "bonus" seats.
Play ball.
A great place for Information, Comraderie, and a sucker punch.
Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.
Quittin' Time
Looks like great seats Calvin. I asked the wife for the pics I took yesterday.
Enjoy the game very much.
First pitch to the Astros (Biggio) and boom...1 - 0. I think the HR tied Biggio with Ricky Henderson for all time lead off HRs. Stros scored 4 in the first. Biggio went 4 for 4 / HR double and two singles. Morgan Ensberg is batting a league leading .430 (+ or -). He also had an HR, and later missed a 3 run HR by three feet. Noticed that our starting lineup had only two players batting under 300, and one of the two was at .295.
Scoring runs may get Roger Clemens back in the rotation. He is enjoying golf at present, but may join the team in May. Roy Oswald pitched. He is probably their best starter now, a continuation of last year. I wanted to stay through the ninth to see Lights out Lidge, but they brought in another to close. The Astros are currently in first place. Hats off to the White Sox for their Series victory. They were great and we did not show up. Clemens was a disappontment in the World Series. He also did not do well in the World Championship Series.
I like the relatively new Minute Maid Park, much more baseball friendly that the Astro Dome. The games are a lot more fun when the score runs and win, but $7.00 for a beer?
Being on the other side of that one......
We don't give out much. The owners are just too tight.
I've given out maybe 20 carpenter's pencils in the past year. And I had to steal those from the plant manager's car. (-:
I've worked here 5 years, and just got my first company hat a couple of weeks ago. (Right after they told me they were outsourcing my job to Costa Rica)
We do give out girly calenders every year. But I have to fight to get a half dozen of them to give to customers.
Last week they gave me 4 baseball tickets. They said I could give them to DW or to customers.
I gave 'em to a customer. DW wastes enough of my money at the ballpark already...
Hey guys, don't worry about it. It's only the homeowner thats paying for those perks
Those Company hats; ballcaps or sombreros?
I've given out maybe 20 carpenter's pencils in the past year. And I had to steal those from the plant manager's car. (-:
I've worked here 5 years, and just got my first company hat a couple of weeks ago. (Right after they told me they were outsourcing my job to Costa Rica)
Read your response to the wife, we were LOL.
How is the transition to Softplan / Home Designer going?
"How is the transition to Softplan / Home Designer going?"
Pretty well. Had a little trouble with my first customer. My second customer was a young couple that were a lot of fun and wonderful to work with. They paid me more than I billed 'em for and thanked me profusely.
My 3rd customer is also a young couple. They're also a lot of fun, and seem to genuinely appreciate what I'm doing for them. I'm afraid that they're WAY over their budget. But they don't want to downsize the house yet.
I just landed a 4th customer that should be an interesting challenge. It's an older couple trying to remodel an 1890s farmhouse that was built by the guy's Father.
They want to cram a whole lot of stuff into a small space without adding onto the house, make the place look more or less original, and add on an attached garage that looks like it belongs there.
Piece of cake, right ??? (-:
I'm not smiling - It's just gas
They want to cram a whole lot of stuff into a small space without adding onto the house, make the place look more or less original, and add on an attached garage that looks like it belongs there.
Piece of cake, right ??? (-:
Sounds like a situation where you need the protection policy of a limited number of review sessions and changes.
That last one is the kind of work I do. The design process can take 3-4 times as long. You have to create the as-is model accurately first. That can involve creating walls and such - anticipating how deep floor joists are, etc.. Gotta get that accurate first or the whole thing multiplies errors going forward.Then to fit the extras in, you spend hours staring at the screen - bouncing back and forth between SP and BT;)
Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!
The lumberyard I most frequenmt gives stuff like ball caps and pencils freely for the asking. They also try to get me to display yardsigns. I think that is tacky, so I put it on my trash trailer which is sometimes on site.
They also took me on a trip to the Andersen window factory back in 2000.
They used to spansor a contractor's appreciation night oncve a year which was like the JLC live in miniarture with lots of manufacturers reps, then a big dinner and a show which combined an educational lecture like Corbonds "Walls that work" along with a comedy routine/For some reason, they stopped that deal and started doing one that is open to the public with no entertainment and hotdogs and soft drinks for food. probably trying to compete with HD on their own level, LOLThey have also given me things like plans protectors, calculators, an estimation attache' notenbook...
Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!
I went on one of those trips to Andesen Window and Morgan Door back in about '87. My boss was supposed to go, he saw the tickets and said, "Gee, Wisconsin and Minnesota in February....... Tom, you're going!"
Had a fun group, a lot of younger guys, we (they) mercilessly abused the Morgan hospitality suite (calling the hotel's front desk for more beer at 3:30 AM, inviting ladies of questionable character back to the suite and/or their rooms). Fun trip, I even learned some things.Oddly enough, the scheduling and perks on those trips was rumored to change drastically after our visit north.
"...you spend hours staring at the screen..."
I've definitely been there. I described it to one customer as "Concentrating at the screen until drops of blood formed on my forehead".
"bouncing back and forth between SP and BT"
I try to avoid doing that. I close down BT and try to just focus on SP. I even put on headphones and play music to try to drown out distractions.
But then I start humming, and annoy DW and the boys...
Just be happy I'm not YOUR kid
Zounds like your musical talent rivals mine! LOL
Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!
The lumber yard in Wash. gave out the typical pencils as most do. but what was really nice about theirs was that they were cedar and sharpened easily and the were day-glow colors. Easy to find in the beach sand when you dropped them. If you knew the right people(my son dated the managers' grand daughter) they gave out reasonably decent tape measures that lasted about a month or two until the sand wore off the number or they clogged to the point that they wouldn't retract anymore. Probably went through 10 tapes on that one home alone. Still have 4 or 5 left. Thank you, Levee Lumber
Though I never did get a good deal on materials.
I just landed a 4th customer that should be an interesting challenge. It's an older couple trying to remodel an 1890s farmhouse that was built by the guy's Father.
They want to cram a whole lot of stuff into a small space without adding onto the house, make the place look more or less original, and add on an attached garage that looks like it belongs there.
Yeah, all those 1890's houses with 3 car attached garages. About the only way that is going to look natural is if they're connected by underground tunnel. Or if the garage REALLY looks like part of the house (but the door side will still give it away).
jt8
"The difference between greatness and mediocrity is often how an individual views a mistake..."-- Nelson Boswell
"add on an attached garage that looks like it belongs there."a carraiage house attached to the house with a portico (hope that's the right word) closed in to make a breezeway?portico=one of thoise covered area's that you got into/outof the carraige.
bobl Volo, non valeo
Baloney detecter
Well, I might have my architecture mixed up, but I thought the portico was on the front of the house. Guests pulled their carriages up and got out under the portico. The family drove their carriage around back to the carriage house (detached garage).
jt8
"The difference between greatness and mediocrity is often how an individual views a mistake..."-- Nelson Boswell
Most of the houses I've seen with a portico, its been on the side. For some reason, I really love that look.I've yet to see an attached carriage house. Who wants the smell of horses in the big house?
Portechere?
Bueller? Anyone?
Like bobl mentioned - I was kind of thinking of a carriage house. It would look O.K. in a rural location, I think. But I'm away from working on the garage. I've still got to figure out how to change the stairs and make them work. Right now they have a 2' 4" wide stairway in a 7' long hole that goes up to the 2nd floor. It's REALLY steep and has little headroom. But there isn't much room to make the run longer or wider. Other than that, it's a piece of cake.(-:
Marriage is the chief cause of divorce.
"We do give out ... calenders every year."and none for your friends at BT?
bobl Volo, non valeo
Baloney detecter
Heck, I can't even get enough to keep one for myself. A couple of years ago I stuck one up on the wall in my office. It was stolen in less than a week. Heck, it's not like I've ever gotten any company freebies from anyone else from BT...
Anyone who disagrees with me is cordially invited to take a flying leap.
A couple of years ago I stuck one (girly calender) up on the wall in my office. It was stolen in less than a week.
I think you hung it in the wrong place. Most of the ones I have seen at businesses are hanging in the bathroom above the toilet.
Hey big man, that ain't true about no freebies from BT members, LOL!
I gave each one of ya a bunch of pencils at Laurel!
Don't say I never gave ya anything :-)Jason Pharez Construction
Framing Contractor
Oops - I forgot about them pencils. I think that's the only freebie I've ever gotten from a BT member.
If Wile E. Coyote had enough money to buy all that Acme crap, why didn't he just buy dinner?
I hear ya.
If I ever get some more shirts made up I'll send ya one.
I still have pencils though!Jason Pharez Construction
Framing Contractor
"I think that's the only freebie I've ever gotten from a BT member."oh, comeon, you get crap here all the time.
bobl Volo, non valeo
Baloney detecter
By the way thanks for the pencils I use them everyday and they remind me of the good deed and you guys.
I tried to call you the other day as I was driving the trailer around and getting it maintained and work has picked up consideralbly and wondered if the same was happening for you?
ANDYSZ2
I MAY DISAGREE WITH WHAT YOUR SAYING BUT I WILL DEFEND TO THE DEATH YOUR RIGHT TO SAY IT.
Remodeler/Punchout
Edited 4/26/2006 1:12 pm by ANDYSZ2
Dayum Andy, ya tried calling me? I didn't realize it--sorry!
Glad you like the pencils; my old crew asks for them every time I come out to visit...lemme know if ya need more--I got em! Or if you're going to the other Andy's Fest, maybe drop me your street addy and I'll send ya a bunch to give to everyone in my absense.
Work is slowly picking back up, but now I'm having the old problem of finding help. Go Figure! You know how it is, I'm sure.
Been doing a lot of punchout on other framers' work-- a little drywall, too. Got me thinking about ya....."What would Andy do?"
Be cool bro.Jason Pharez Construction
Framing Contractor
I have basically decided that I am going to be a one man show.It suits me and I don't have to make any excuses. I can always get my son to help on the weekend or something but its not needed.
I have been giving some serious thought into diversifying into energy improvements as a full contractor.Like grouping different subs into a package where we can upgrade H/A , plumbing window packages, insulation ,alternative fuels(wood furnaces) etc.
Thinking about going back to school to learn some engineering and other related subjects and tying it all together.I think the time has come to make more with my brains then my back.
Probably not going to a fest unless its alot closer to home, but I am running thr Driver Ed for the Porsche club this weekend and I'll do a bunch of networking then.
How is your wife doing?Did she resolve the reoccurring issue?
I will probably be taking a trip down to Fla this summer with my daughter and would enjoy hooking up for early dinner or something.
I'll try and call tomorrow to say hi.
ANDYSZ2I MAY DISAGREE WITH WHAT YOUR SAYING BUT I WILL DEFEND TO THE DEATH YOUR RIGHT TO SAY IT.
Remodeler/Punchout
I hear ya man, and I might have missed your call if ya tried...I was running a help wanted ad and had already gotten too many calls! E-mail with your phone # so I'll know when it's you and not some telemarketer.
The wife's doing fairly well now...she still has one or two rough days a month, but so far no more hospitalization--like there's a whole lot more they can do LOL.
If you get down here this summer, you've got to lemme take ya'll out...there are some GREAT restaurants here on the coast, especially if you like fresh seafood.
Stay well, and good luck with your business expansion!Jason Pharez Construction
Framing Contractor
My lumberyard gives me free delivery and quickly makes good on any mistakes. I don't do a tremendous amount of business with them, though, and appreciate the service they give me.
My shingle supplier and my copper supplier each take me out to lunch about once a month.
Horse & car racing are both popular here. Last year I was given box seats at Churchill Downs for a big race. Had a death in the family and couldn't go. This year I was offered a box at the Indy 500, but I turned it down since I'm not a big fan. I've also turned down several NASCAR tickets. Now, if they come up with some NBA playoff tickets, I'm there.
Turning left for 3 hours doesn't exite me. A cross over dribble leading to an ally oop does.
http://grantlogan.net/
Here's the seats I offered to Smitty and Dieselpig for Wednesday's Tribe v. Red Sox. Last Sept. we sat here. Scouts sat a few rows up.
Hey batter batter batter............A great place for Information, Comraderie, and a sucker punch.
Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.
Quittin' Time
Nice. the wife says she will give the camera for uploading the shots I took.
I need to be an Astros fan, but tthe Indians have my favorite pro logo...love the cool looking Indian. I need a hat.
My experience isn't with lumberyards, but it's close. I work for an architecture firm so we have architectural reps coming in to our office all of the time. There's always someone willing to give you something if you spec enough of their material.
Two people from the office were at the Andersen Window plant in Minnesota for a couple days a few weeks ago. One of the project architects has had lighting factory tours in Connecticut and California.
Visa lighting took a some of us to a Cubs vs. Brewers game in Milwaukee last august. There were also a couple of offers for White Sox tickets.
We're at a point where we have lunch and learn presenetations almost every week.
My future father-in-law works in plant maintenance for a steel mill that is a huge customer of Mobil Oil. Mobil was giving out passes (including parking, continental breakfast, lunch, and garage area access) for fast friday practice (day before pole qualifying) for the Indy 500. I can't wait for that one. I'll try to get a few good pics when I'm there.
my wife was an interior designer working at an arch/build/design firm. One of the carpet companies she spec'd alot paid our way to Vegas for a trade show. Only had to crack the wallet open maybe twice the whole three days. The best night was the $250 meal and $100 a seat cirque-de-sol show. I guess they must have really appreciated the business.
Depending on the company profits you get stuff. Where do you suppose the profits come from?
Edited 4/25/2006 11:03 am by booch
Obviously I pay for the perks in some way, but they make the choice to offer. Some companies, as evidenced by the post, do not.
Aside form the perks, they have the best pricng and service of all lumber comanies I have used. My salesman / rep is the best salesman / rep I have ever encountered in all of business history including all phases (not just lumber).
The luimber company is a builder friendly yard, stocking long lengths and many other common builder use items not readily avaliable at many yards, and this is the Houston, Texas area.
They run about 25 trucks with several runs for each truck, yet treat me as if I was the most important builder they serve. Of course, we always pay our bill.
Again, the choice is theirs to give me the perks. Price and service, that is about all I expect. I would use them if the perks were not provided. I did not mention the bar--b-ques / crawfish boils and peal em and eat em shrimp events.
Pics form our seats at Minute Maid Park.
Astros 7-2 victory over the Pirates, Sunday April 22, 2006
My 8 year old son and I after an Astros HR.
Biggio on Third.
Enserg at the plate. He started the game leading the league in hitting at .414 and went 2 for 4 with an HR.
Arguably Astros best pitcher delivers, young Oswald from Missippi.
Sorry, wife took the cheap camera insteead of the Sony.
Edited 4/26/2006 1:05 pm ET by txlandlord
No baseball tickets or anything like that, but our lumberyard does have a couple 'contractor days' a year with dealer reps, door prizes, and a couple free meals. Even gave us free beer last time. About five years ago, the lumberyard arrainged to have about 16 of us area carpenters go on a Marvin Window factory tour. Marvin sent a company plane to the local airport, flew us up to the plant Warroad,MN. Learned a lot. They fed us well, put us up in a motel for a night and flew us back the next day.
Mike