2 Cents Worth of Feedback
-- Gifts & Decorative Accessories, 7/3/2007 5:23:00 PM
2 Cents Worth of Feedback — Week of 10/22/2007
It really IS about the economy. Last week we asked readers what they think has the most negative impact on retail. A clear majority, at nearly 68 percent, voted that "economic conditions like mortgage meltdowns and spiraling gas prices" have the most negative impact. A slight 2 percent said that "natural disasters like wildfires, droughts and other extreme weather conditions," had the most impact, while another 12 percent believe "retail downturns are cyclical and not related to any one thing."
One reader from blazing southern California, who had just returned to her home following mandatory evacuation, offered additional opinion.
Cynthia Webb writes:
I think the downturn is a mix of all of the above, (economic conditions, downturns are cyclical, natural disasters) plus the effect of this war and administration. I live in San Diego, which is a very military town, and even the staunchest republicans admit it [the war] is a disaster. But we are all aware of the money being thrown down the tubes and the economic impact of that, plus the debt that it is bringing on us all.
Even still there are more hummers on the road, driving us all to hell in a gas sucking glory.
On a side note of the war, especially in San Diego, it is interesting to see how many more amputees there are -- some very active, many young -- and what impact that will have on society in general. Vietnam really had an large impact on the expansion of disabled access.
I ramble; just got back home from fire evacuation.
Thanks for your email newsletters,
Cynthia Webb
2 Cents Worth of Feedback
In response to the poll question of August 29, Sandra Pringle wrote:
If I won the lottery, I would build my 10-year dream.. . . a Christian retreat and outreach center, called The Hills of Bethsaida, so that I could provide for those in need, spiritually and physically.
Included in this complex, would also be a Christian/gift center, and I would somehow produce gifts using my own verse and poetry, which I have sold for years, to other gift manufacturers. I would have those items for sale, along with my two books already written, plus new.
I love writing poetry, and I would like to send books of poetry to schools, to young children, to inspire them and teach them the value of words, the power of words and the blessing of our words.
I think that the granting of money to any person is a gift, and also a test. God will eventually answer my prayers, and when He does, I plan not to fail Him. I will use it to glorify His name in the gifts I would create, and also in those I would purchase from others.
I would like to think of The Hills of Bethsaida as a place where anyone could come, relax from the hectic schedules of the world, and just be still for however long they wish to be there.
If they wanted to participate in the Christian messages which would be available, fine. If not, fine as well. The Holy Spirit would dwell there in that place, and they would be comfortable.
People need such a place to go, I feel, and I would love to make it happen.
I pray for all those who win these big lotteries, that God would have them use their newfound riches for good will among all men.
The purpose to live is to give. This is the way I see it.
God bless,
Sandra Lewis Pringle
2 Cents Worth of Feedback
Two weeks ago, we asked readers what kind of product they wanted to see more of at market. Overwhelmingly, poll-takers voted "stuff for men." The results inspired comment from Maine-based rep Andy Enright:
For the complete story, go to:
http://www.giftsanddec.com/article/CA6440329.html
2 Cents Worth of Feedback — Celebrities
Last week’s poll asked readers whether or not American culture puts too much emphasis on the comings and goings of celebrities, and readers answered with an unequivocal YES! (See the second comment below.) A robust majority of more than 72 percent answered that the amount of attention celebrities are paid “gets on their nerves.” Meanwhile, a combined 15 percent said it was either a “guilty pleasure” or “harmless fun,” and another 12 percent said they just don’t care. Who’s this Brangelina anyway?
http://www.giftsanddec.com/article/CA6422011.html
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