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Michael A.

3
Level 3 Contributor

Contributor Level

Total Points
1,264

About Me

I have lived here in Aurora, Colorado since 1989 and loved it ever since.

How I Can Help

35 retail and customer service experience. Clerical, shipping and receiving, along with much more. Have written for interoffice communications and newsletters!

Interests

CPU activities, wargaming, video gaming, foreign languages, history studies, geography, etc

14 Reviews by Michael

  • Family Dollar

4/22/15

I had taken the advice of my girlfriend, Ashley, to shop at places like this to save money. Although some deals were not bad, I didn't realize a total savings from it. The major grocery chains charge pretty much the same price as this place did. The selection was similar and the prices reflected no specific savings whatsoever. It is a dank little store and the staff was friendly and professional enough, but it was cloying in there and I had a hard time breathing.

Overall, it wasn't a bad experience, but Family Dollar needs to upgrade in several areas if they are expected to survive and continue business.

  • xFinity

4/18/15

Comcast has to be one of the worst things on this planet! They are greedy, inept and shortsighted. First, they break into the market and swallow every damned thing they can. They wanted Time Warner. As if they had to get any bigger of a monopoly. Then, they were instrumental in stirring up the works regarding 'net neutrality'. Fortunately, the FCC had enough brains to figure out that Comcast and similar companies (Comcast isn't the only one, just a great example) were simply trying to bilk the public... again! Their customer service sucks like gravity! They are arrogant morons! Those mockingbirds generally try to act superior to the customer and their needs, when, in fact, a great deal of their call center CSR's don't really know what they are doing. When they run out of B. S. and cannot think of anything else, they put you on friggin' hold forever, meanwhile they are attempting to find a supervisor or someone, or, something that might know what is going on and what they are doing. At least... what they are supposed to do. There are many things about those creeps that leave a lot to be desired. Even their advertising in my mails tell me that they want it all. As far as I'm concerned, they won't get any of it. Many other people feel the same way.

Just like the way David Letterman and others exposed the audio conversation with a CSR at Comcast arguing with a customer about 'why he wanted to cancel his service'. If anyone remembers, the snotty and pushy CSR couldn't understand why the customer wanted to cancel his service. Maybe it's just me, but doesn't that sound like a desperate plead, much like a love affair going sour? It almost sounds like that CSR was pleading like a lover, "Please don't leave me!" Why are they so desperate? Well, let's look at some facts!

I have know people personally that have dealt with Comcast and were not happy with their service. One, is arguing about knowledge. Many of the CSR's act like they know everything, when in fact, a lot of times they are incorrect. Another is attempting to cancel service without a squawk. Though many CSR's might be professional and accept the request and follow through on them, some are just chodes and they make up about I estimate 40% or more.

A friend of mine was supposed to meet with them for a job at a local government run employment office. He had to take the bus, which costs $2.25 just to get on and it is due to increase soon too! Also, it was hot that morning. He did everything and showed up on time and all that. When he got there, the woman said to him, "Oh. The Comcast recruiter didn't show up. She just called an hour ago." What? That was enough for my buddy. He had already applied a year before for them just to be told that he didn't have the tech skills to work there. Again. This is a man that has dealt with computers and technology since the 1980's. Needless to say, he decided to go elsewhere, got into another company in the same league and is now a mid level manager there. In a way, he was glad that Comcast rejected him. He has a much better job and greater pay than Comcast offers for the same work. I have also heard from one kid that worked for them that Comcast expect you to sell as well. So right there, I can clearly see that if they have a quota to sell, they must most certainly have an incentive to keep customer since that would equate to a loss. In American business, that is an ultimate sin. Still, that doesn't excuse them from being so greedy (their rates do still suck!), inept, arrogant, overbearing and down right dumb and pushy.

I only watch digital TV since I am so damned busy. However, if and when I decide to pay for television, phone or online service, it most certainly won't be through these clowns. And that is exactly what they are... corporate clowns! They support political candidates that are good for them, but no good to anyone else. If another business goes out of business, let it be Comcast. 'Gangsters of the West!'

  • Safeway

4/14/15

In recent times, I noticed that Safeway stores were well kept and organized, but they lacked certain things, as well. One is that there were many items that are common in King Soopers, Albertson's and elsewhere, but Safeway either rarely carried the item in question, or not at all. I'm talking about items that are commonplace. For whatever reason, Safeway doesn't always go as far as they could merchandise wise. Prices also leave much to be desired at times. The local grocery chain, King Soopers, always has bargains and much lower prices. Why they must charge more than Soopers is beyond me since they deal with the same basic vendors and suppliers. Why the difference? I understand that they are union, granted. But so are many of the other chains and they still can offer better deals. They also need to introduce sublet businesses that are geared toward cuisine and other services. Their staff is basically friendly and nice, though I have met a few grouches in my time.

Recommended for overall service, quality and reputation. Format of stores and prices could use adjusting.

  • KingSoopers

4/14/15

I have dealt with King Soopers for decades and can say that I have experienced the good, bad and indifferent over the years. Though it has evolved into a different store over time, it is still a formidable centerpiece of the community. Not only a great place to shop with the best prices around (Safeway, Albertson's and otherwise might need to offer some of the same deals), great customer service and pretty clean and organized stores. Though there are some items I would like to address.

Why does it seem that the specialty foods section is non existent these days? Where I shop, real deli and specialty items are not what they used to be. They offered more variety, as opposed to the generalized items being sold now. Also, if they lowered their prices on produce, then more people would buy that and be healthier. Would like to see a better selection in luncheon meats. There is only one kind of pastrami! Would like to see more choices. If some incentives, real incentives, were placed either at a particular store or company, that would also increase their patronage.

Also, am glad that they employee union workers. They do a great job and are worth every penny! The management is usually pretty decent too.

  • Burger King

4/14/15

I have been a fan of Burger King since I was a kid since I had fond memories of it, the food was good and the service was good, as well. That has all changed for me now! It started with a series of things, such as slow and apathetic service, meal quality and sometimes, the dining area could have used more attention. Many little things, such as not even asking if we would like ketchup, or just being gloomy, or, speaking in another language in front of American customers (by the way, have these people been documented yet?). One issue that came up was when I came to the counter and the person taking the order was being talked to in Spanish by one of her male coworkers. She smiled and maintained character, though it was hard since the jerk kept talking despite anything else. I think that the little low life has not had any upbringing! She finally got my order and change, all correct. Then I had to wait seven or eight minutes for the damn food. When I got there, I asked for ketchup (something that little miss 'chatterbox' had a hard time doing since she was speaking with the same damned guy again. I got what I wanted, at least I think I did, and went out the door. Fortunately, I looked inside and saw the shock of my life. My french fries had a rechargable 4 quantity, AA battery pack inside. Couldn't believe that one! I went inside and had the thing in my hand. I simply said, "Ah ma'am. This was in my order with the french fries!" I was adamant, but not rude. She simply took them back and said, "Sorry!" How sorry she was is left to question. I simply left and didn't ask for a manager or anything, nor did I make a complaint to corporate either since it probably would've fallen on deaf ears anyway. If not, the very best that would happen is that she'd lose her job. I didn't want that, so I left that one alone. That was over three years ago. From time to time, the service and the food has been rather good, I must admit. However, there were other times that little things did add into the mix. It ranged from the simple things, like the food again (guess it depends on the cook, whatever), knapkins, straws and otherwise often being out, counters that were messy, et cetera. Have had many complaints from others too! That is normally the food, which seems to be a gamble at best. To the fact that sodas have tasted 'moldy'. The service was sub standard and it really, at times, seems that the personnel could care less about their jobs.

If these workers want $15 per hour, they better start proving that they deserve it! If management wants to keep their jobs, they should supervise their employees better (that is why they are called 'supervisors', isn't it?) If the Jardel Corporation wants to remain in business, they had better take this s#*$ seriously! All the damned money they make, a person would figure that they would show some 'tacit concern' at the very least. Guess those fools are too busy trying to relocate in Canada for tax purposes. Burger King is an American business and entity, both. If the trend continues, especially with other fast food chains, then I fear for the quality of life in our country!

  • CicisPizza

4/13/15

Cici's Pizza had been opened after the Hobby Town USA store closed in the same location years ago. It was nice and I have received good deals there. People were at the very least, friendly and helpful. However, I must say that they need to improve on the wait line and it is usually so crowded that you almost take a number. There bathroom was so-so. They need to update their arcade for it only had two very old and aging machines. Recently, their prices have had something left to be desired.

Though they are pretty good, they are not great! I recommend this restaurant for people whom don't mind a youth orientated atmosphere and decent prices!

  • Walmart

4/13/15

I have shopped at Wal Mart ever since they built one right across the street from where I live. It was a convenient location and it started out pretty good then. Much of what I cannot find now, was available then. They even had a cool snack bar, which later became a McDonald's, which later became the Money Center. At any rate, it has been transformed into a Super Wal Mart, though I must admit, I liked the old one much better. Still. Not a bad place to shop.

I decided to buy some CPU stereo speakers. I was on a very limited budget, so I needed to shop around. Wal Mart had the best deal at $5.88 for the speakers in question. Tax brought that up to $6.28 total (free shipping to the store). Initially, the item was destined to be delivered on my birthday, March 10th. I followed the status of my shipment. The estimated date of delivery was altered for March 11th. No problem. Then, I get another email stating that they were going to have it ready for pick up on March 10th. No problem. Was ready to pick it up that day. Then, I was informed that the item had just arrived at Commerce City (a main distribution hub) on March 10th in the morning and that it was still destined for pick up that day. I checked again later that day and they let me know that it was on 'delivery' status for the store and wouldn't be available again until March 11th. I waited and went to the store on the 11th. Had to wait for the only person at the service desk to address my situation. When I gave him the ticket, he said nothing and scanned the paperwork over and over again. It wouldn't scan, so he did a manual input, then asked me all sorts of questions about the product and such. Finally, it looked like he found my order and went to the back to retrieve the item. I waited for some time and feared that he couldn't find them stuff. After a good five minute, he was back and I got my box after he scanned that too.

Although I am not disappointed by a far margin with Wal Mart, still, the shipping always seems like a ping-pong match! Back and forth. Have been told this by several people that this is not uncommon. However, it would be nice to get some certainty when it comes shipping and receiving and such. Outside of that, I am please with them as a whole.

On a personal note, I am very pleased that Wal Mart announced that they are giving universal raises. They finally realize that we folks need to make money to spend it and it is only fair considering how things are these days! Kudos for that as well for other companies, such as Target, TJ Maxx and Marshall's have all come to the same conclusion and realize that following Wal Mart's lead is the right and logical thing to do. Wal Mart may have a lot of negative items stacked against them, but they do many positive things too and that should not be overlooked. Also like the fact that in 2005 that they helped their employees during Hurricane Katrina. They said, "No matter where you go, anywhere there's a Wal Mart, you will have a job!" Really dig that one too! Rock on!

Keep the faith!

  • Barnes & Noble

4/13/15

Though it was a while back when I went to them, they had what I needed. Specifically, I was looking for a Portuguese course book and such. Though there wasn't a tremendous selection even for languages like, Spanish, French, German, Russian and Japanese, still, I had hope. Fortunately, they had a series called 'Living Language'. It was a Portuguese course book, along with a very useful dictionary and CD's that complement the coursebook. I have used those ever since and it is all due to the fact that they carried what others didn't, such as B Dalton, etc,. Over the years, I picked up other things, such as calendars at Christmas, and so forth.

The staff and the atmosphere is recite! Great selection, reasonable prices and overall a great experience. Highly recommended!

  • JacksonHewitt

4/13/15

Initially, way back when, my mother and I filed with H & R Block. They were nice and I liked their coffee. However, I was young back then and didn't know the ins and outs of taxes and always scoffed at how much my simplistic filing cost me for I didn't make all that much either. Since the 1990's and up until last year, I filed my own taxes. Totally accurate and legal! No problems there. Then a storm came into my life and things have become rather chaotic at best. I could not direct deposit my return since I no longer had a bank account or any feasible way to receive my money. I also needed rather quickly as well. Tried to go to H & R this year, but they can no longer do 'rapid refund' anymore. Their services did include getting a debit card for the return, but I would have to wait for the card and the return would take another three to four weeks to finally process. Simply didn't have enough time to do that, so I went to Jackson Hewitt. The tax consultant was very nice and accommodating. She then went over my paperwork and asked many imperative questions. After going through that, the lady found a deserved deduction for me and it resulted in the distribution of much more than I figured. About three times what I figured personally. That was terrific!

The service was great, I felt at ease with the people there, the office was nice and clean, easy to get to and no great waiting periods nor hassles. They set me up with extras, such as a $50 WalMart gift card, which was very useful since I have had spring cleaning to perform. The money helped me get back on track and afford very little, yet welcomed, extras, though nothing fancy.

Jackson Hewitt has it 'going on'!

Thanks for so much!

  • Amazon

3/24/15

I have been dealing with many companies and Amazon is perfect! Each time I have ordered from them, the results were as expected or even better in some cases. They get the right people for the right thing and their system works. Quite often, they will give a delivery date which in most scenarios, is earlier than expected. That is fine with me! The sooner, the better!

I personally think that Amazon beats EBay in many ways, along with many others. Have had disappointment before, not with Amazon. Rest assured, I shall return when I need something else in the future.

Tip for consumers:
Look for anything. Though they don't always carry your item, their reference system is superior to others! Definitely worth a look and try, both!!

Service
Value
Shipping
Quality
  • Home Depot

3/24/15

Though I have shopped and worked there in the last two decades, I can say that they weathered the storm when home improvement stores went belly up about fifteen years ago. Most of the time I am satisfied with my purchases, though some of their prices are debatable. At any rate, I like the fact that they let me shop in peace. However, when it comes to finding something, I am confident that some of their associates could use more education. I do know that the job is tough enough, granted. They do need a much better directory than they currently have. Maybe something electronic in the front door would be useful.

Pound per pound, not a bad place.

  • Best Buy

3/17/15

Though a very organized outfit, they have something to be desired with prices! Why should it cost me $200 to just have a membership for computer repair. They used to charge $75 for the same exact thing. Guess they need to make money. Also, their return policies stink. I dreaded ever having to return something for they act like as if you kicked their dog or something. I don't need that and I especially don't need to pay higher prices on things either!

  • LivWell

3/17/15

I have frequented other dispensaries and have been impressed by many things and depressed by many things. One thing that stands foremost is quality. In most cases, the money was well spent, even if it was a little pricey. Been to Denver and Aurora and have had a taste of much. Another issue is price. Although I must say that prices are more what they should have been when grass was illegal. However, it is still a concern. Though I didn't mind paying $200 for good stuff (I paid twice as much when I had a regular connection prior to Amendment 64's passing into law), still, that too is steep enough. Watching a budget is not an option, but there is an answer…LivWell!

LivWell was never really an option for I like to remain in the general area where I reside. However, I saw that they had a special and many reviews emphasized them completely. Though there were various criticisms, the main focus was price. I agree with that and must refute some of the ‘sour grapes' whom find fault with them. They are legit and well enough run. I felt completely at ease there. When I went there, it was clear that there building was not ‘high rent'. That doesn't matter to me when I know I am getting a square deal, so per se. It was neat and clean, though their hallway was a bit cramped for many people had to wait their turn. You are allowed to enter either the medical or recreational sections. When I was allowed after a fifteen minute wait, I was met by a very friendly and knowledgeable budtender. I explained that I was looking for a good sativa strain and she brought out Golden Goat, which is a 50-50 sativa/indica hybrid and has a 23.8% THC rating. That was fresh and the container was a white plastic deal that looks like one they use for facial cold cream, which is great! All in one, and what I ended up paying was well worth the RTD trip across town to the West Evans Avenue location. I felt vindicated that they got pretty much what I wanted and at a great price.

Total damages were the initial $89.99 for the ounce (well worth it!), plus tax, which brought the total to $109 even. I have no problem paying that since normally I would pay twice as much elsewhere. Sure, those other places are located in nice buildings, many that look costly and have many good features. However, I would rather compromise walking into a palace and paying way more than necessary for the privilege. My second trip was the same price for 303 Kush. Mind you, it is only 17% in THC as opposed to others, but that too was great for the price. Though the selection for that level of purchase is very narrow, still, they do provide a great product for a great price. Their customer service is not bad at all, at least in my experience.

Overall, I endorse LivWell and hope that they can continue to give us a discount on quality product, along with decent treatment and all else.

  • Weedmaps

3/2/15

I have taken the time to review many aspect of the marijuana industry in Colorado and have found that it is Nirvana for the most part, there are still things that need to be addressed. One is why do the reviews only seem to be of a positive nature. I see things like "Best buds on earth", "Friendly staff", and, "What a price! I'm coming back." Dude! Reviews like that are much of what is there. Hardly to I see real objective and reliable points of criticism. Maybe it is perhaps so many of the patrons are using product before getting to the dispensary. So being negative or scrutinizing is not even on the agenda with these folks. However, I have seen critical reviews before and those should be looked at as well. They range from, dispensary was hard to get to or in a weird location, to, buds were dry and didn't get me all that high, or, price was ridiculous and product was inferior. And what happens if an employee is dubbed 'ineffective'? Are they taken aside and talked to by management? Do they lose their jobs? Are they coached and trained to do a better job? Many times when I have dealt with budtenders, they seem to be interested in selling you the highest priced item possible, don't have true knowledge of the product, often bait and switch items, or, simply don't have things organized or in stock. Many times I feel that they simply want to get the line down and sell, not really concerned about individual customer satisfaction, which is really what the marijuana industry needs to strive for collectively.

Weedmaps gives you basics in locations, buds and universal pricing. What they fail to tell you is that a great deal of the fantastic bud is always out of stock and difficult to get. That leaves the common strains that most people do not want for sale. If the customer doesn't want it, they try to go around it saying that it is a sativa 'a party bud' or an indica 'a great pain reliever'. Much of the time, that is as far as they know. If I have a question about a bud I want, they offer something else since I pick the best strains that they may never have. This site gives simple information and reviews that I feel do not truly reflect the nature of what the public really wants. There really isn't a way to know whether the dispensary in question has a good reputation, follows laws and protocols, offers reliable information, is fairly priced, has acceptable product, or even their security measures. There are so many things that Weedmaps misses that I am very surprised that so many rely on it for any type of information. Outside of where it is, when it is open, and the true stock that they carry, it is just that... a map!

Weedmaps needs to hire objective critics to venture out into dispensary land, experience the service, try the product and write a factual review for the same. Until then, they are only a navigation site with a lot of reviews that revolve around fluff!

Michael Has Earned 11 Votes

Michael A.'s review of Home Depot earned a Very Helpful vote

Michael A.'s review of Weedmaps earned a Fraud Buster vote

Michael A.'s review of Weedmaps earned 6 Very Helpful votes

Michael A.'s review of Barnes & Noble earned a Very Helpful vote

Michael A.'s review of KingSoopers earned a Very Helpful vote

Michael A.'s review of Burger King earned a Very Helpful vote

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