Saturday, January 22, 2011

The Unrewarding "Big Lots Buzz Club Rewards" Incident


Harvey Pekar understands the Art of Checking Out

Yesterday Amy and I hit the Parkville Big Lots store off Perring Parkway (Big Lots Store #5103) to see what bargains lay in store for our fiscally conservative thrift agenda, with Amy heading straight for the food aisles (natch!) while I predictably made a beeline for the two huge DVD bins (today's special - all $3 dollar movies were now 2-for-$5 dollars!).

On my last Big Lots shopping spree at the Dundalk store (Big Lots Store #1595), I scored some good foreign films (the French thriller Red Lights, Wong Kar-Wai's Ashes of Time, and the Iranian arthouse film Secret Ballot), and today I found another Audrey Tautou collaboration with director Jean-Pierre Jeunet (Amelie), A Very Long Engagement, the Oscar-nominated Brazilian drama Central Station (directed by Walter Salles of The Motorcycle Diaries fame), the wickedly hilarious Matthew Broderick-Reese Witherspoon comedy Election, and Saturday Night Live: The Best of Commercial Parodies (which included personal fave "Colon Blow" but, alas, no "Shimmer Floor Wax/Dessert Topping"!) - all for $10.

But before we could check our items out, we made the mistake of allowing a woman to get in front of us with a shopping cart overflowing with sundry items. Thus began a descent into a sort of living Hell known as the "Big Lots Buzz Club Rewards Incident." Apparently, people can join Big Lots' "Buzz Club Rewards" program so that they earn points for purchases of certain items and ultimately get something free after so many purchases. It all starts with registering online, reading through a veritable slew of rules and disclaimers, and getting a card which, of course, this woman did not have on her. So naturally, this turned into a time-insensitive encounter in which the woman (aka "Time Vampire") railed against the cashier, demanded to see the manager, and (oblivious to the ever-growing line of shoppers behind her) started screaming that "I should get this free!" even when the manager interceded and told the lady she had to register online and he couldn't do anything for her until she had done so. In other words, she was working the Bargain Bullying Technique to see if Making a Scene would get the manager to back down. It didn't. But the spat went on for a good 15 minutes before she finally (and angrily) stormed off, threatening to take her business elsewhere.

"What's the big deal?" I muttered to Amy under my breathe (not wanting to chance the ire of She Who Must Be Satisfied, aka "Bargain Bitch," who was still arguing with the poor manager). "I mean, aren't things cheap enough at Big Lots that you don't have to barter over further discounts?"

"There is an art to shopping when it comes to picking the right checkout line and the right checkout opportunity," I continued, adding, "And we missed it!

Harvey Pekar has documented this art in his American Splendor comics collaboration with R. Crumb, though in his case his "Complicated Hassle with the Cashier" experience involved getting behind Old Jewish Ladies in Checkout Lines:


Harvey Pekar on Old Jewish Ladies in Checkout Lines

Paul Giamatti reprised Pekar's checkout dilemma in the "Old Jewish Lady" scene from the live-action film American Splendor:


The Big Lots lady we encountered wasn't Jewish, but she sure had a lot of chutzpah!

Not to mention a lot of time on her hands.

As our nation debates whether civility between polarized politicians will return to the U.S. Congress in the wake of the recent Tuscon massacre, it's obvious that civility in checkout lines is still a work in progress.

Related Links:
"Justice - Wait for It - on the Checkout Line" (WSJ, 8/19/09)

Labels: , ,

116 Comments:

Blogger Survey said...

Big Lots! Customer Satisfaction Survey
Survey

12:06 PM  
Blogger gujrati moj said...

Hello, My Dear friends Hi!! Hope you all are doing well. Are looking for the Big Lots Survey at www.biglotssurvey.com?

And Do you want to know about What time does Big Lots Store Open? and What time does Big Lots Store Close?

Big lots customer service Number and Big Lots Store Locations Near Me.

If you don’t know so don’t worry my friends, cause Here we have explained all Big lot survey, Big lots rewards,

that would help you to save your time and fuel. There is no necessary to go visit Big Lots Store yourself.

big lots survey number

big lots transaction number on receipt

biglotsurvery

3:10 PM  
Anonymous No Bake Recipies said...

dgcustomerfirsthere you can win up to $1000 by taking Dgcustomerfirst survey and also
kohlslistens provide you a chance to get free money, prizes, and rewards.so get ready and take the survey

7:46 AM  
Anonymous Natasha_Wilson said...

Visit Dailyusrveyguides.com for More intresting articles! Thanks

1:00 PM  
Anonymous Natasha_Wilson said...

Visit Dailysurveyguides.com for More interesting articles! Thanks

1:02 PM  
Anonymous Eva Green said...

I like it when people come together and share views. Great site, continue the good work! Boots Opticians
Europcar

8:53 AM  
Anonymous Smart Surveys said...

beautiful Teddybear ! This is really a great post. Thank you for providing this information.Earth Fare

8:55 AM  
Blogger Survey said...


Big Lost Survey

11:44 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

hey i loved your site layout and especially the way you wrote everything. I must say that you keep posting this type of information so that we may see the latest news.
surveyforcustomers

12:09 AM  
Blogger KrogerFeedback said...

Well, don't forget to take part in Kroger feedback survey. Krogerfeedback survey is conducted at the ooficial kroger feedback website which is krogerfeedback.com
www.krogerfeedback.com 50 fuel points

12:51 AM  
Blogger Emma watson said...

Well, don't forget to take part in Kroger feedback survey. Krogerfeedback survey is conducted at the ooficial kroger feedback website which is krogerfeedback.com
www.krogerfeedback.com 50 fuel points

12:24 AM  
Anonymous talktowendys said...

Hey Your site is awesome and full of information. I have read you posts they are so informative. Keep Posting wonderful content. Visit talktowendys

11:38 PM  
Blogger https://giftcardbalance-check.com said...

Eastern Mountain Sports Gift Card Balance – Check Online By Phone

https://giftcardbalance-check.com

4:14 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Very good write-up. I certainly love this website. Thanks for Sharing CiCi's Pizza

HuHot

Smartsurveys4u

6:11 AM  
Blogger branding services pakistan said...

Hey, you keep your site content amazingly. The way of presneting and providing information is Best. I have bookmark your site to read more posts, Kindly keep posting amazing Content.
Regards, Best Branding comapny in pakistan

11:52 PM  
Blogger Survey said...

Are you finding a shoe store for buying new shoes? Then the Payless shoe store is best for you. They are giving a chance
to win Payless Coupon by completing the Payless survey through its
official website www.tellpayless.com

11:10 AM  
Anonymous WurfelIT said...

Hey, your site is amazing. I found your site via Google, and its interesting to read it. I have bookmarked your site for future readings. Love from, Best Branding company in Pakistan

11:17 PM  
Blogger Kiran Habib said...

Hey, blogger, you have an awesome website and its content. I am also a blogger as well as SEO Expert In Dubai and I personally feel your site is worth reading to learn new things. I found it very informative for me.

12:39 PM  
Blogger James Sand said...

Hey I loved the way you shared the valuable information with the community. I would say that please continue these efforts and we want to hear more from you.
SEO Expert In Pakistan

1:14 PM  
Blogger umeranees said...

This comment has been removed by the author.

10:43 PM  
Blogger Umer Anees said...

I really appreciate your site and its content. Your postings are so good and informational. I personally read them out and they are so influencing.
Umer Anees

8:45 AM  
Blogger ReviewitbySaba said...

interesting...
If you want to visit Pakistan.. do Visit Hunza with Hunza Tour Packages we provide the best Tour services in Pakistan

6:39 AM  
Blogger James Richard said...

Hey Thanks for sharing this valuable information with us. This nice sharing of knowledge will help us in solocareer

1:33 PM  
Anonymous johnsteve said...

Hey guys !! If you want to get perfect information about whatever you need or like your survey site so, just please click here ..we are providing you very much clear and perfect information about it..so please click here https://surveyguides.info/

12:07 AM  
Blogger johner288 said...


What a great information you shared with us, I am inspired by the method for the stage. It kept joined me regularly. Keep doing awesome. Thanks for sharing this blog article.

Web Site

2:20 AM  
Anonymous sweezart said...

http://takesurvey.info/jimmy-johns-feedback-survey/

2:21 AM  
Anonymous rappen said...

http://takesurvey.info/bahamabreezesurvey-bahama-breeze-feedback-survey-at-www-bahamabreezesurvey-com/

4:09 AM  
Blogger SEOTOP said...


The topic of this post is very interesting for me. I am very much impressed after reading this post and I must appreciate your effort in sharing this post with us here.
Best SEO Services

6:08 AM  
Blogger jack said...

Hey, i really appreciate your site. You have posted good content which I personally read and liked so much.SEO ireland

12:47 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

sup lessons dubai

2:52 AM  
Blogger S. Harris said...

Very informative blog. Please take some time to visit mine 10 Best Leather Repair Kits for DIY Renovation Projects

8:23 AM  
Blogger customers said...



Hannaford Survey

12:50 AM  
Blogger khadija said...

"I loved the post, keep posting interesting posts. I will be a regular reader...

hairclinic.pk

7:15 PM  
Blogger summan said...

"I loved the post, keep posting interesting posts. I will be a regular reader...

hairclinic.pk

6:23 AM  
Blogger wardah said...

"I loved the post, keep posting interesting posts. I will be a regular reader...

hairclinic.pk

7:10 AM  
Blogger summan said...

"I loved the post, keep posting interesting posts. I will be a regular reader...

hair transplant in lahore

5:53 AM  
Blogger summan said...

"I loved the post, keep posting interesting posts. I will be a regular reader...

hair transplant in karachi

5:45 AM  
Blogger Wajiha Sajid said...

"I loved the post, keep posting interesting posts. I will be a regular reader...

hairclinic.pk

4:43 PM  
Blogger wardah said...

"""I loved the post, keep posting interesting posts. I will be a regular reader...

hair transplant pakistan

8:09 AM  
Blogger wardah said...

I loved the post, keep posting interesting posts. I will be a regular reader...

Rent a car from Saifal Muluk lake

8:10 AM  
Blogger wardah said...

I loved the post, keep posting interesting posts. I will be a regular reader...

Rent a car from Islamabad to Kashmir tour

11:05 AM  
Blogger wardah said...

I loved the post, keep posting interesting posts. I will be a regular reader...

SEO Company London

1:26 PM  
Blogger khadija said...

"I loved the post, keep posting interesting posts. I will be a regular reader...

rent a car islamabad

6:24 AM  
Blogger khadija said...

"I loved the post, keep posting interesting posts. I will be a regular reader...

https://www.seomagician.co.uk"

12:26 AM  
Blogger wardah said...

I loved the post, keep posting interesting posts. I will be a regular reader


https://talkwithstranger.com/

6:44 AM  
Blogger Abdul Hanan said...

Really it is a very nice topic and Very significant Information for us, I have think the representation of this Information is actually super one. . new metro city

11:36 AM  
Blogger Abdul Hanan said...

Really it is a very nice topic and Very significant Information for us, I have think the representation of this Information is actually super one. . On-Page SEO Optimization

10:39 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

Appreciating the hard work you put into your site and detailed information you offer. It’s nice to come across a blog every once in a while that isn’t the same out of date rehashed material Buy Generators

10:32 AM  
Blogger Mohsin Malick said...

Very nice article, very informative and provides alot of insight of the project. new metro city

6:36 AM  
Blogger Neutral News said...

Very nice article, very informative and provides alot of insight of the project. new metro city

5:18 AM  
Blogger scoot said...

The Entertainer (The ToyShop) Customer Satisfaction Survey Have you purchased any product from an Entertainer store recently? Are your kids happy with ...
The Entertainer Customer Survey

12:03 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

With Google Play services, your app can take advantage of the latest, Google-powered features such as Maps, Google+, and more, with automatic platform ...
google play services app download

3:24 AM  
Blogger williams said...

lexMLS login, the portal works with your contacts to provide ... Not just on the web but in the industry's best mobile home search application.
Flexmls Portal Login Online

9:44 AM  
Blogger Aamir Khayam said...

https://rootsandzest.blogspot.com/2013/09/jim-kowalski-1946-2013-rest-in-peace.html?showComment=1569951797013#c3418303930352848838

1:44 PM  
Anonymous Branding in Pakistan said...


I blog frequently and I really appreciate your content. Your article has really piqued my interest
sportswears
Pakistani Organic Brand

6:33 AM  
Blogger Private Worker said...

Very Informative topic I liked it very much. You have covered the topic in detail thumbs up
Escorts Services in Pakistan

1:51 PM  
Blogger Eaccountant said...

This blog is useful as well as informative. Keep sharing such blogs I really like your postsERP solution

9:18 AM  
Blogger Seo services said...

This comment has been removed by the author.

1:50 AM  
Blogger Seo services said...

This comment has been removed by the author.

1:53 AM  
Blogger shed said...

Your blog is great! I really enjoyed reading it, it has helped me very muchshedbaseuk.co.uk

7:45 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

UK CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SURVEY

10:50 PM  
Blogger Unknown said...

Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana Benefits

12:22 AM  
Blogger Advanceroofingservices said...

Appreciating the hard work you put into your site and detailed information you offer. It’s nice to come across a blog every once in a while that isn’t the same out of date rehashed materialRoofing Bronx

6:13 AM  
Blogger Advanceroofingservices said...

Appreciating the hard work you put into your site and detailed information you offer. It’s nice to come across a blog every once in a while that isn’t the same out of date rehashed materialRoofing Bronx

6:14 AM  
Blogger HamzaandHamzaLawFarm said...

Hi There, love your site layout and especially the way you wrote everything. I must say that you keep posting this type of information so that we may see the latest news Family lawyer In Lahore

12:59 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

PSB Loans In 59 Minutes- Saksham Yojna Applicant Detail

3:43 AM  
Blogger Saad Ali said...

247 Developers provide the finest SEO services to help you reach the high ranks on a search engine. Working on Google guidelines, we develop result-oriented SEO campaigns for our clients including complete on-page and off-page optimization. That is how 247 Developers provide Best SEO Service in Pakistan.
Visit Now

1:55 AM  
Blogger Let's Create Design said...

This comment has been removed by the author.

5:44 AM  
Blogger Bahria Peshawar said...

Very Informative topic I liked it very much. You have covered the topic in detail thumbs up Bahria Town Peshawar Prices

7:48 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Ever thought about opinions on net neutrality about net neutrality opinions without even thinking for a second realizing the fact about it.

12:16 AM  
Blogger Saad Ali said...

Visit Now: https://247developers.com/seo-services/

7:09 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Ganga Gram Yojana website - http://pradhanmantri-yojana.in/

5:04 AM  
Blogger Advanceroofingservices said...

This comment has been removed by the author.

10:10 AM  
Blogger Bahria Peshawar said...

Very Informative topic I liked it very much. You have covered the topic in detail thumbs up,Hi There, love your site layout and especially the way you wrote everything Bahria Town Peshawar Location

10:15 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

The main reason behind the taking of this survey to get an idea about how comfortable customers are at the Co-op stores. Co-op Your Store, Your Say Survey

1:31 AM  
Blogger shed said...

I have recently started a blog, the info you provide on this site has helped me greatly in blogging. Thanks for all of your work and time Plastic Shed Base

9:32 AM  
Blogger InfluencerHub said...

Hi There, love your site layout and especially the way you wrote everything Digital Marketing Agency In Tampa

5:58 AM  
Blogger Atif Zaman said...

Professional people provide comfortable and incredible services really excited..
https://www.yourcar.pk/

2:04 AM  
Blogger camberley car said...

Hi There, love your site layout and especially the way you wrote everything. I must say that you keep posting this type of information so that we may see the latest news taxis in camberley

10:25 AM  
Anonymous Play squash academy said...

Get connected with best squash academy for learning Squash. we offers summer camp courses and trainers from top class squash players. Connect with us and get the training information now.
https://playsquashacademy.com

7:11 AM  
Anonymous MyzeroDeals said...

This dietary supplement with its unique formula puts your level of ketosis through the roof. Your goal weight and your ideal body type in now only a couple of weeks of consistent use away. atkins products cheap

12:09 AM  
Anonymous https://surveyguide.onl/ said...

https://surveyguide.onl/

ACE Hardware – ACE Hardware’s Customer Satisfaction Survey
ACE Hardware has placed an online survey acehardwarecsat.survey.marketforce.com for its customer to know the customer review about them last visited

1:20 AM  
Anonymous https://my-surveys.com/ said...

https://my-surveys.com/

Hungry Jack’s Survey To Win MyHJExperience Coupons
MyHJExperience | Hungry Jacks Survey After your last visit to Hungry Jack’s Restaurant, share your visit experience input at the My Hungry Jack’s Experience Survey and Get a Free Coupon Code. The principle goal to begin this Hungry Jack’s Survey at www.myhjexperience.com is to get authentic

1:24 AM  
Blogger Muhammad Kashif said...




Thanks for your sharing. you can also check this site for best deals on Rent a Car in Islamabad

6:35 AM  
Anonymous Rent A Car Islamabad.pk said...


I was reading your contents and writing and found a lot of information. Keep posting such contents for us. Car Rental Islamabad

6:30 AM  
Blogger Noone said...

well, I just love the site and idea, really inspiring ideas for me. Like working on various topics with such a catchy name. people mostly use some blog word or kind of it for this. I love your innovation.
total system solution
https://www.totalsystemsolution.com

11:21 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

LennysSurvey: How about getting the chance to receive a Free Deli Sandwich on your next purchase at Lennys Grill & Subs just by taking Lennys Grill & Subs Survey

Tell Portillo’s Survey

5:47 AM  
Anonymous Pvchal112 said...

click here

Welcome to the Krispy Kreme Employee Benefits login guide! This post is attempting by the employeebenefits.onl to give you detailed guidance about the benefits of the Krispy Kreme employees offered by the company.

Here, I am going to explain to you how to Krispy Kreme Sign In yourself in the Krispy Kreme Employee Login Portal to receive your benefits if you are an employee of the Krispy Kreme company.

Read the post to know all about the KK Employee Benefits Login Portal and the steps to log into the site kkbenefits.com.

10:04 AM  
Blogger Barret said...

We Provide the Best tour services in Pakistan. Click here to view
Hunza Tour Packages and Naran Tour Packages

4:51 AM  
Blogger IUJOIJK said...

www tellpayless com survey

11:22 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

new york giants gloves

joker batting gloves in best quality around the world in cheap price

5:43 AM  
Blogger ATS Consultantx said...

Hi Thank you for sharing this wonderful article. You describe all the points so well.
Greetings from ATS Consultantx! We provide the E Filing Tax Portal under the supervision of professional consultants. Which allow to salary individuals or others to register and file their tax returns with an easy and affordable slant. The purpose of this affords to help taxpayers in order to mitigate their fear about FBR and empower them as responsible citizens of Pakistan.
E Filing Tax Portal
Salary Tax Calculator
Business Tax Calculator
Rental Tax Calculator
Register NTN
File My Return
Benefits for filer
ATS Services

4:31 PM  
Blogger Zaf said...

Hello! I just would like to give a huge thumbs up for the great info you have here on this post. I will be coming back to your blog for more soon.
Self Drive Rent a Car Islamabad

7:22 AM  
Blogger internetworld - https://oilyskin22.blogspot.com/ said...

otc-network-card-activation

Once you receive your new OTC card, activate your card by calling 1-888-682-2400 and enter your Card Number and your
ArchCare Advantage Member ID when prompted.You can also activate your card by visiting activationmycards.com/otc-network-card-activation

my otc

4:59 AM  
Anonymous couponsaving said...

I really appreciate your site and its content. Your postings are so good and informational.

4:05 AM  
Blogger Tarpaulins Shop said...

Waterproof Tarps are best suitable for Outdoor items due to their thickness. They are made from a special kind of material that gives them thickness and their designs also differ from other types of tarpaulin due to their thick edges. They are water-resistant and protect against heavy rain and storms. Heavy Weight Tarpaulins are available in blue, white, and green colors. There are thick holes at the edges where you can insert ropes or shock cords to fix them at a fixed position.

10:13 AM  
Anonymous Barron Skincare Brand said...

Browse the best skincare cleansers, moisturizers, serums, makeup and anti-aging products for hydrated & healthy skin. Recommended by dermatologists. Barron Skincare Brand

2:23 PM  
Blogger Unknown said...

Our Economy Tarpaulin are highly popular for Agricultural and gardeners use. Our Economy Tarpaulins Are Lightweight And Easy to Use.

8:46 AM  
Blogger activation card said...




mymilestonecard com activate

11:51 AM  
Blogger World News said...

I am thankful for this Content to gave me much awareness regarding my area of work. I also want to make some increase to this platform which must be in the knowledge of people who are really in need. Thank you so much for sharing with us. It was very informative blog

1:28 PM  
Blogger Freeappforyou said...

thanks for share this information with us CHAUFFEUR SERVICES

9:42 AM  
Blogger areyan008H said...

[ Plenti Card Activation ] plenti.com/activate-card-n

10:34 AM  
Anonymous Couponsavinguae said...

This is really a great post. Thank you for providing this information.

5:48 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

W offer thes best Hunza valley tour packages

3:25 AM  
Anonymous Peter Brown said...


Great Blog. Your article is amazing and inspiring. Keep writing and inspiring.

12:08 PM  
Anonymous Couponsavinguae said...

Nice post It really interesting to read. I hope keep posting more articles.

6:23 AM  
Blogger Royal Car Rentals said...

Thanks for sharing your content here. We are here to help you to Rent a Car Islamabad.

7:28 AM  
Blogger Hennry Nelson said...

https://fightfornagalim.com/nagaland-hornbill-festival-december-2022/
Check out here the news of nagaland hornbill festival of 2022 and much more
https://fightfornagalim.com/

2:45 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

JEEM Marketing Management, a prominent digital marketing agency in Dubai, excels in SEO, Local SEO, Social Media Marketing, Email Marketing, and PPC. Our content strategies enhance search engine rankings, and we offer expert services in Content Marketing, Web Design, Web Development, Mobile Marketing, Digital Consultancy, and Reputation Management. With a proven track record in the industry, we're the trusted partner for businesses seeking digital success in Dubai's dynamic marketing landscape.

5:05 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

In a dynamic and competitive marketplace, the significance of a strong and memorable brand cannot be overstated. Jeem Marketing Management is your go-to branding agency in Dubai, dedicated to helping businesses create, refine, and elevate their brand identities. As a leading creative branding company in the UAE, we understand the transformative power of branding and its profound impact on your business. With Jeem Marketing Management, your brand's journey to recognition, resonance, and success begins right here in Dubai.

6:07 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

At Global Scrap Trading, we provide reliable and secure demolition services, placing a strong emphasis on precision and safety. Our team adheres to rigorous protocols, ensuring well-controlled and environmentally responsible demolition processes. Our flexible solutions cater to a variety of project sizes, from small-scale deconstruction to extensive demolitions. Count on us for services that prioritize compliance, seamlessly combining efficiency with a steadfast commitment to sustainability.

6:36 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Thanks for sharing useful information. We would also like to read about Single Status Certificate in Pakistan .

2:11 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Facilitate your legal union with the convenience of Online Marriage, streamlining the process for couples. Navigate the dissolution of marriage with the Khula Procedure in Pakistan, ensuring a legal and considerate approach to marital separation. These streamlined processes prioritize accessibility and adherence to legal protocols.

12:41 AM  
Blogger orbeezgunreview said...

This is what i wanted to hear from you and the same thing i apprecite if you take time and read my blogs on Orbeezgunreview

2:48 PM  
Blogger Karim said...

Yes, this is right and that's the reason the norther areas of pakistan are safe to travel and if you are unable to find best tour operators then check exploria's https://www.exploria.pk/tours/hunza-tour-packages/ which are afforadabl.

4:37 PM  
Blogger TelePort ManPower & Consulting said...

Yes. When it comes to shopping, it is an art to spent less and buy more.
manpower recruitment agencies in Pakistan for Saudi Arabia

6:56 AM  

Post a Comment

<< Home