Community Mercantile offers ambiance in new setting / LJWorld.com

Archive for Monday, February 25, 2008

By Eileen Roddy

February 25, 2008

When I arrived in Lawrence in 1997, I enjoyed visiting the Community Mercantile Co-op (popularly known as The Merc) on the corner of Ninth and Mississippi streets. Folks shared tables and engaged in friendly conversation over hot tea and coffee served in ceramic mugs in the small, low-key eating area. Staff called regulars by name and went the extra mile to meet customers' needs. I made friends, met many local characters and felt welcomed and "at home."

This intimacy disappeared with the move to the present premises at the corner of Ninth and Iowa in 2001. Food and beverages were located at the store's rear, and the impersonal seating area was near the entrance beyond the cash registers. Hot food and drink, served on paper plates and cups, was often cold after waiting in long grocery lines.

In response to requests from members and increased sales, major renovations, including a new, extended dining area and deli, were undertaken in 2007. The newly designed "green cafe" opened in December.

The bright, airy space at the store's front southwest corner has seating for 54. The light yellows, creams and light earth-tone colors are enhanced by natural light from the large windows and the subtle low-voltage supplemental lighting powered by 100 percent renewable energy sources (a combination of hydroelectric and wind-generated power). Strategically placed fresh plants and flowers add to the brightness, and work by local artists is well-displayed. In keeping with the "green design," all eating surfaces are crafted from renewable materials, including the tabletops, which are made from Kansas sorghum stalks.

"The place smells so clean and fresh," said Dollie Bittenbender, a retired instructor at Haskell Indian Nations University. She and her friend Joy Leslie enjoyed hot chocolate from paper cups after their shopping trip.

They like the new space.

I tried a Lucky Irish Breakfast teabag from a limited Republic of Tea selection. Barista Jordan Geiger told me it's possible to have any tea from the wide selection of loose teas, blended locally by Annie Lin, available in the bulk section at the back of the store. Having high-quality loose tea in a paper cup didn't appeal to me. Sula Teller, the food services director, said a new shelf is being built to house ceramic mugs and a hot water machine. It will be conveniently placed nearer the cafe entrance.

Marcia Price, whose great-grandparents were among the first settlers in Lawrence in the 1800s, was delighted to hear about the ceramic mugs.

"I consider myself a latte connoisseur, and latte just doesn't taste right in paper cups," she said.

Price inherited some of her ancestors' pioneer spirit. She was part of a women's group which could be considered the beginnings of the co-op movement in Lawrence.

"In the late '60s and early '70s, Molly VanHee organized us to sell and exchange eggs, milk and the excess produce from our vegetable gardens. We met in what was then a small field east of the Kansas University campus," she said.

"I've been a Merc member from the very beginning," Price added. "I think it's important to have a place to get high-quality, locally produced food."

As we chatted, her husband, Robert, a retired KU professor, heated his lunch in the microwave at the back of the cafe.

Hot food and beverages can become tepid when the line at the cash register is long. On several occasions, I've been behind five or six people paying for general merchandise, and my tea's been cold by the time I've paid.

I shared this concern with Teller and general manager Jeanie Wells, and suggested having a separate register for cafe customers. They assured me they'd do their best to respond to customers' requests and ideas.

The Community Mercantile is now a thriving business with a professional air. Sales have more than doubled since the 2001 move, and the new extended deli and dining space has an up-market, classy take-away food ambiance. The more personal and friendly atmosphere of earlier days seems to have diminished, and one hopes the Merc Board, staff and customers will continue to work hard to recover that important aspect.

Ambiance: 5

Coffee: 3

Tea: 2

Service: 2

Eileen Roddy, born in Ireland, is a freelance writer who lives in Lawrence. She is a graduate of the Citizen Journalism Academy.

Discussion

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25 February 2008
at 8:22 a.m.

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Marion (Marion Lynn) says…

Poor service.

Bad tea.

Mediocre coffee.

Lots of “ambience”.

I can't wait!

Does the place have a tin roof and if so, is it rusted?
25 February 2008
at 8:34 a.m.

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Stain (Anonymous) says…

The new Merc is lovely and the food I've had was wonderful. I love strolling through there and looking at the fresh vegetables and beautifully wrapped items, and smell that great Merc smell! I've gotten so that I dread going to the ordinary grocery store, but when I stop at the Merc it's pure pleasure. Their many flavors of hummus are addictive. The help is friendly.

The Casbah Market downtown is lovely too. I hope they make it. Good selection of healthy bulk munchies. They have terrific, interesting food at their little cafe and it's reasonably priced too.
25 February 2008
at 10:46 a.m.

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snap_pop_no_crackle (Anonymous) says…

How's the roof over at Pretentious Cow these days?
Oh, wait, it went out of business. Never mind.
25 February 2008
at 11 a.m.

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dorothyhr (Dorothy Hoyt-Reed) says…

Oh, poor Marion. The Merc is locally owned, and we just can't have that in America! Everyone must be under one of the few major corporations left. How else can we control these peons? They are so arrogant, these hippies who want to buy locally.
25 February 2008
at 11 a.m.

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Confrontation (Anonymous) says…

If Eileen Roddy has nothing better to do than to complain about every business in town, then why doesn't she open her own? She could have the perfect tea, perfect service, perfect ambiance, and the perfect coffee. Someone sure thinks highly of herself.
25 February 2008
at 11:45 a.m.

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RedwoodCoast (Anonymous) says…

“The Community Mercantile is now a thriving business with a professional air. “
––––––––
The “professional air” is what turns me off. Look for the contrived smiles and lack of “coop” anywhere on their sign. I guess that's just too hippie for them.

I love the Merc, but I just don't like what people have done with it. I have an aunt in west Lawrence who has been in town for 30 years. She says the newly remodelled Merc “just isn't 'Merc'.”

I agree that the seating area needed to be revamped, but seriously, the deli is an expansionist regime if I've ever seen one in a grocery store. Yeah, the place is earthy, but a tight-fiting-clothed, urban flowers in a planter on the sidewalk earthy. It sure is classy and refined.
25 February 2008
at 12:40 p.m.

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OldEnuf2BYurDad (Anonymous) says…

“The “professional air” is what turns me off. Look for the contrived smiles and lack of “coop” anywhere on their sign. I guess that's just too hippie for them.”

I'm interpreting this to mean that slick, clean and nice isn't grunge enough to be truly off-the-mainstream. That's how this post comes across. “Bring back the tie-dyed girls who don't shave their legs and use Navajo hair tampons.”

If fewer leftists weren't complete posers, I might join them. But I'm not going to wear dreds and old flannel (year 'round) just to prove I'm alternative enough to be in the cool kids club. I drive a Chrysler and wear no-iron shirts… and still occasionally shop at the Merc (if heaven has no Marcon pies, then send me to hell). If I'm a member of the community, and the place is called “The Community Mercantile”, then I should feel welcome to show up in my slacks from JC Penney's and buy a pie and some bison steaks without being concerned about not being “green” enough to shop there.

What would you have them do, Redwoodcoast? Dumb-down the look so your conscience can be clear? Do you hear the judgemental pretentiousness in your post?

25 February 2008
at 12:59 p.m.

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RedwoodCoast (Anonymous) says…

Yeah, it's judgemental. It's my opinion, dude. They've strayed from the roots of what a coop is. I'm not advocating for your caracatured version of “tie-dyed girls who don't shave their legs and use Navajo hair tampons.” That's a pretentious, judgemental comment if I've ever heard one, dude. What I'm saying is that those “tie-dyed girls who don't shave their legs and use Navajo hair tampons” have become moms and professionals who have decided that the image of the Merc needs to parallel their own personal development, dude.

I'm not saying “dumb-down” the look, as if it is too intelligent and refined for me. I just feel like it is fake, contrived, and well, just pretentious. They advocate local natural foods, but this comes across in a refined gourmet attitude that personally, I find just a little too ostentatious for my tastes, dude. And maybe you missed that other comment I made in my post. Dude, you know the one… “I love the Merc.”
25 February 2008
at 1:46 p.m.

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Jayhawker1 (Anonymous) says…

My wife drinks chai lattes
25 February 2008
at 1:47 p.m.

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RedwoodCoast (Anonymous) says…

Cool, I think the sherry and cooking wines has more to do with proucuring a liquor license. Unfortunately, Kansas still has archaic alcohol laws. In other states you can buy a nice bottle of wine or a good six-pack with your groceries.

And I completely agree with the relegation of the bulk department to the back recesses of the store. It belies the Merc's roots as a bulk buyers' club. Very telling of the “New Merc,” which is what it is. A professor of mine was talking one day about a Bob Dylan show he went to. “Here is a guy who's playing a guy, whose playing a guy…” The New Merc is playing a role of the Community Mercantile Cooperative. Oh those founding forehippies…
25 February 2008
at 1:47 p.m.

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Jayhawker1 (Anonymous) says…

sven, is your middle name Nancy?
25 February 2008
at 1:52 p.m.

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rumor_man (Anonymous) says…

http://www.dreamgreenhomes.com/aboutu…

The link didn't work its_getting_warmer. Try mine now.

What was your degree in Cool?
25 February 2008
at 1:54 p.m.

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rumor_man (Anonymous) says…

Cool,

Did you sketch these plans on toilet paper?

http://www.dreamgreenhomes.com/plans/…

Rumor Man
25 February 2008
at 1:55 p.m.

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Jayhawker1 (Anonymous) says…

Looks like something that belongs on toilet paper…
25 February 2008
at 1:59 p.m.

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Jayhawker1 (Anonymous) says…

Thought I saw some corn on those drawings…

25 February 2008
at 2:01 p.m.

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RedwoodCoast (Anonymous) says…

Ad hominem and polemic. Can we get back on topic?
25 February 2008
at 2:03 p.m.

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rumor_man (Anonymous) says…

The merc hasn't been the same since it moved.
25 February 2008
at 2:04 p.m.

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Confrontation (Anonymous) says…

I sure wish we had a Whole Foods Market. Do you think the people would act just as snobby in one of those? I go to the Merc for their organic produce, but I absolutely hate the attitudes of the other shoppers. It's as if they think they deserve to be honored and worshipped for being a Merc member. Don't get in front of one of the “members” with your cart. They'll roll their eyes, grunt, or just shove their way past you. The employees are much nicer. When will South Park have an episode on “Smug” in the Merc?
25 February 2008
at 2:13 p.m.

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RedwoodCoast (Anonymous) says…

The Merc has become a Country Club of coops. It is a coop, which means that members should get some sort of say in what goes on. However, when I worked there, there were definitely those particular members who were approaching it with an elitist country club snobbish attitude. I do like the employees, but I don't like the depersonalization and homogenization that the management has promoted in employee behavior and in the name of customer service. They're becoming what they were reacting against in the first place.
25 February 2008
at 2:19 p.m.

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deskboy04 (Anonymous) says…

After reading this I am going to go to McDonalds and have a Big Mac!
25 February 2008
at 2:28 p.m.

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RedwoodCoast (Anonymous) says…

I guess my beef with the Merc can be analogized as a close relative who is making some decisions that you think are not flattering or wise. In some way, you are defined by your relatives, so it drives you crazy when you have a relative that might make you look bad. The philosophy of the New Merc disagrees with what I believe in, and since I was employed there at one time and since I still like the concept of the place, it just drives me crazy to see it hanging out with people I see as bad influences.
25 February 2008
at 2:42 p.m.

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Marion (Marion Lynn) says…

This thread is all the proof that anyone needs to show that if you even *question* anything about The Gawdalmightyallthatisgoodandgreen Merc, they will come after you rather than dealing with the questions!

All Hail The Merc!
25 February 2008
at 3:05 p.m.

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Marion (Marion Lynn) says…

The Gentle Readers will take note of the frequency of Ad Hominem attacks as compared to the number of posts which deal with the topic of discussion.

Interesting, what?

Kill not only the message but the messenger!

25 February 2008
at 3:10 p.m.

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snap_pop_no_crackle (Anonymous) says…

snap writes:

poor

widdle

mawion

.

All

the

bad

old

cyberthugs

beat

him

up

&

take

his

lunch

money

.
25 February 2008
at 3:57 p.m.

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kansas_o_kansas (Anonymous) says…

I'm not shopping anywhere that requires a “membership” fee to get the best deals.
25 February 2008
at 4:11 p.m.

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ralphralph (Anonymous) says…

This is a real question, not a smart-a.. remark:
How do you have something 'powered by 100 percent renewable energy sources (a combination of hydroelectric and wind-generated power)' and how can you tell?
Do they have a windmill on the roof? Does the Columbia River pass by in the rear?
I don't get it … A little help for an old, dumb guy?
25 February 2008
at 5 p.m.

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Pywacket (Anonymous) says…

Cool~ a serious cook or chef would never dream of purchasing anything labeled “cooking sherry” or “cooking wine,” (usually produced by companies such as Reese) which are harsh and inferior products. If you're going to cook with wine, make it real wine—burgundy, sherry, sauvignon blanc, or port.

If the people at the Merc have a true appreciation for food, that would explain why they would avoid carrying such inferior products, regardless of whether they'd need a liquor license. (I do not think they would need one for products specifically labeled “cooking wine,” but I'm not sure.)

Okay… carry on.

For my money, the Merc started becoming pretentious with its first move—to 9th St. When it was on 7th, they were friendly and low key and not self-congratulatory about how correct and hip they were. They were just another little neighborhood store. I don't like the atmosphere as much now, but they carry a few things that I would have a hard time finding elsewhere, so I still go in.

For those beating up on Eileen—especially Confrontation, whose comments were unnecessarily obnoxious~ do you make similar comments about movie critics or other restaurant critics?

Eileen is quite aware that she can get perfect tea at home—and she's written about that. She, like other tea or coffee drinkers, don't wish to be stuck at home all the time. I, for one, am happy to read her reviews, knowing that if a cuppa passes her rigorous standards, it will probably pass my (equally) high ones.

Do you have a chip on your shoulder about reviewers or critics in general? Do you think Roger Ebert thinks too highly of himself because he reviews movies and writes commentaries? Sheesh.. Somebody needs to get over himself, but it's not Eileen.
25 February 2008
at 5:22 p.m.

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jumpin_catfish (Anonymous) says…

We shop there from time to time but working families are far more interested in the bottom line. When I had all the kids to feed this store simply was not an option. Many of the products I get at the merc are becoming available as Dillion's and HyVee at lower prices. Oh, ambiance is… OK I guess but I don't need to get all touchie feelie when I shop.
25 February 2008
at 6:30 p.m.

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snap_pop_no_crackle (Anonymous) says…

snap writes:

cool is assisting marioni to attract traffic to his 'forum' by using misleading cybersquatting site names.
25 February 2008
at 6:45 p.m.

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OldEnuf2BYurDad (Anonymous) says…

“I don't like the depersonalization and homogenization that the management has promoted in employee behavior and in the name of customer service. They're becoming what they were reacting against in the first place.”

Redwood: Just because it's a co-op doesn't mean that sound business practices don't apply. “Homogenization… in employee behavior” is what you MUST have in an organization like that.

Becoming what they were “reacting against”? Are you joking? The Merc was created to be a “reaction *against*” something? Even if you did once work there, this cannot be a true statement!! The Merc is about “being” something, not “not being” something.

I'm not trying to bash you, but with every post you make my complaints even more true. Some don't want the Merc to be for the community. They want it to be for them. You complain against elitism and exclusivity… but that is precisely what you are arguing for!

By the way: anyone can buy and sell cooking wine. It's not considered drinkable because of the high salt content, so nearly every store sells it. Look at Dillons or Checkers. There is no liquor license issue with that.
25 February 2008
at 7:24 p.m.

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Marion (Marion Lynn) says…

Interesting, don't you think, that even when I am not around and not posting that the Ad Hominem attacks continue?

Further, it is to be noted that there has been little if any response to the claims of the author of the article that the tea and coffee served at The Merc are sub-standard.

25 February 2008
at 7:24 p.m.

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Calliope877 (Anonymous) says…

I miss the Merc when it was on the corner of 9th and Mississippi — though it was quite as big.
Now that building is a Cork and Barrel, and the guys that work there are buttheads…I go to the one on 23 street instead.
25 February 2008
at 8:03 p.m.

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Calliope877 (Anonymous) says…

Sorry, I meant “wasn't quite as big.”
25 February 2008
at 9:55 p.m.

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Confrontation (Anonymous) says…

“For those beating up on Eileen-especially Confrontation, whose comments were unnecessarily obnoxious~ do you make similar comments about movie critics or other restaurant critics?”

I'm not going to apologize for dissing your girlfriend. Eileen is not an expert on anything, other than complaining about tea. If she were an expert critic, then I would consider valuing her opinion.
25 February 2008
at 10:13 p.m.

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Multidisciplinary (Anonymous) says…

Marion, tin roof. Too funny :D

Hawk..the stroll post may be the winner of the day.

Chai tea, Dillon's carries two brands that are both great. Both are from the northwest, (Oregon and Wa.)

Hyvee doesn't carry one yet.

If you really want coffee and tea, I ask, “Why haven't you moved to the Seattle region? A little coffee stand/shack on nearly every corner of a parking lot, every main road. My thought was that this could go over in Lawrence.
25 February 2008
at 10:35 p.m.

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George_Braziller (Anonymous) says…

Wow! Sixty-three comments, most of them trashing other people who posted about an opinion piece about tea at the Merc? Do you people not have a life? If you hate the Merc so much then don't go there, divert your eyes as you drive by, burn your shoes if you should happen to set foot on any square foot of land that is near it, rip your hair and beat your chest in public. Then the thread moves on to insult of the author and the person she may (or may not) have a relationship with? I was waiting for someone to say something brilliant like “your mamma wears army boots.”
25 February 2008
at 11:36 p.m.

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merrill (Anonymous) says…

An additional cash register has been placed at the deli.

I don't drink coffee or latte sooo one can only assume that situation has improved as well. Problems most always surface on remodel projects only to be worked out through customer comments.

Food does taste good and business in the deli appears to be very good.

The Merc is busy no question about it. With all the meat problems the Merc does offer home grown meat and supports local growers. They sell a ton of Central Soy Tofu and local milk.

Two week ends ago they posted record sales.
26 February 2008
at 2:32 a.m.

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Multidisciplinary (Anonymous) says…

They sell records? How hippie is that?
26 February 2008
at 5:35 a.m.

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none2 (Anonymous) says…

I think it is great that we have the Merc. I guess I don't understand why the tone of some of these comments are so negative without any positives. Sure it isn't perfect, but what is? Merc's are not common in this nation, and we are lucky to have this jewel in our community.

If you feel the store's employees are too friendly, then you can always get even more of it at HyVee where the smiles are glued on, the prices are high, and the lighting reminds you of a surgical room. I don't care for that HyVee fakeness, but most people do. If you don't agree, look at the HyVee parking lot. On the other hand, you can always shop at Checker's where there is no fake attitude, and the prices are more affordable. They have decent crowds, but you won't meet many foo foo people there. There is also the politically incorrect Walmart grocery store.

Lawrence has the full gamut of grocery experiences. So there is no reason to trash the Merc. Be happy you have SO MANY options. That is what makes it all great.

That being said I will state that I personally really like the Merc. I think it is great how they have grown & improved over the years. I admit that I do not shop there often as it IS expensive. Lots of times when I do go people there always mistake me for a member. I'm not a member as I could never see mush benefit to it. Unless you have a large family, what benefit there would be to buying in bulk once a month (or however frequent they have membership discount days)?

I do miss their old logo with the juggler; it was really nice. I also think that the new layout of the store makes the place look a lot bigger. Also the store smells better. I cannot stand the smell of coffee, so it is nice that you can now go through the produce section and actually smell the produce without getting slapped in the nose with that pungent, overbearing stench. I know a lot of people are addicted to this awful stuff, but it is nice to be able to avoid the smell of it now if you so choose. The old arrangement didn't keep me from going there, but it definitely put me in a bad mood.

Also I never understood why they have such a large section of vitamins, lotions, lubes, gels, etc. However, if that is what sells & generates a lot of revenue, then all power to them.

I don't think it gets much coverage, but the fact that the Merc offers various classes is a real plus too. I've never attended any, but It sounds great — like the Indian cooking classes.

Anyway, thought I may have made some criticisms, I hold by my statement that I like the Merc. I have known them when they were on 7th, on Mississippi, and now at their current location. They have done nothing but get better over time. Keep up the improvements!

26 February 2008
at 8:23 a.m.

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Stain (Anonymous) says…

I love the Merc. Period. Nobody has ever been snobby to me there. The help is friendly. The food is awesome. The bulk food section is not “relegated” anywhere it is on the perimeter of the store, and it was on the perimeter before. People who know how to shop know that in any grocery store you go around the perimeter which is where the fresh stuff is: meat, produce, dairy - and the processed stuff is in the center. It isn't as if it's a long walk to the bulk section! What is wrong with people?

I have only one complaint about the Merc (in addition to that I wish I could afford to do all my shopping there but I can't): Too much packaging, still. I was there with another person who ordered a tiny cream puff to eat in the cafe with coffee. They put this tiny cream putt on a little doily, and put that inside a clear clamshell box, and taped a label on it, and all that just to take it all off and eat it. Maybe we did not make it very clear it was to be consumed on the premises. It should have come on a plate, the kind you wash. What a waste.

The best food costs more but there is more nourishment in it. If you want food with lots of fillers, it costs less, but there's really less there.
26 February 2008
at 8:51 a.m.

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Stain (Anonymous) says…

The food co-op I belonged to in the seventies (in another town) was run in the basement of a church. It consisted of bags and boxes of bulk foods and a few tables to sort it all out. A member had to work there a certain number of hours, or pay a markup. It was “open” once a week. It was a true co-op in every sense of the word and that is why it failed when it got too big. That sort of extreme socialism is sustainable only when the group is small enough so that you know everybody's name, or at least their face, and a person feels a commitment to the group as well as the concept.
26 February 2008
at 11:57 a.m.

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Marion (Marion Lynn) says…

Bad tea. $1.50.

Poor coffee $1.25.

Ambience….priceless!
26 February 2008
at 2:05 p.m.

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snap_pop_no_crackle (Anonymous) says…

Mereeun (Mereeun Lynn) seys: Bed tea. $1.50. Puur cuffffee-a $1.25. Embeeence-a:.preeceless. Bork, bork, bork.
26 February 2008
at 2:22 p.m.

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Pywacket (Anonymous) says…

Sorry to disappoint you, confrontation, but Eileen is not a friend of mine—I just know her through her LJW work. And she carries a lot more cred than you do on the subject of tea. It's amusing how hostile you sound toward the writer of a casual article about tea. (And toward any reader who dares come to her defense.)

Cool~ Do you think it would be “affected” to turn one's nose up at Hamburger Helper, too? Don't take my word for “cooking wine” being an inferior product that nobody would take seriously. Ask some cooks (other than your mama, of course).

Your comment about there being no “cooking wine” substitute for sauvignon blanc or port is beside the point. Or maybe it makes another one—that anyone who would use cheap “cooking” wine probably wouldn't know a good sauvignon blanc from Boone's Farm.

No contradiction exists between the Merc selling organically raised, superior meat and “failing” to carry nasty, cheap, sodium-enhanced “cooking” wine. Now, if they carry over-processed “near meats” like Spam, then maybe they should consider making shelf space for the kind of “cooking” wine you're looking for.
26 February 2008
at 3:58 p.m.

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Confrontation (Anonymous) says…

“It's amusing how hostile you sound toward the writer of a casual article about tea. (And toward any reader who dares come to her defense.)”

You were the one who freaked out and became “hostile” when I dissed her review. If you can't stand the heat, you know the rest.
26 February 2008
at 4:20 p.m.

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Confrontation (Anonymous) says…

So, cool, you had to post here and send me the same thing in a private message? Silly kid. If you would learn to read, you'd see that I didn't say that Py was being hostile towards the reviewer. Also, I don't care what you think about my critique of a critic. If Ms. Superior Tea Roddy can't handle the criticism, then she shouldn't write critiques.
26 February 2008
at 5:18 p.m.

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Marion (Marion Lynn) says…

Got curious and checked on a price:

Good Nature Family Farms ground beef:

The Merc: $3,89 lb.

Hen House: $3.69 lb.

Similar discrepancies on other products which I can get to later, in the region of 5-20% higher at The Merc.

26 February 2008
at 5:20 p.m.

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merrill (Anonymous) says…

The Merc is busy busy busy and busier than ever. That is the true story. They had to grow and were lucky enough to find excellent management at each step of the way with membership money, bank loans and philanthropists for support. Face it The Merc has staunch supporters.

There can be unfriendly help in most any business but obviously the majority of staff are friendly. The Merc seems friendly enough to me. Management of any business understands that in general the help must be friendly towards customers. Many times it's like a real life social experience while shopping. Merc member days are fun although a lot of hard work for staff.

The Merc also has an excellent outreach program and donates food items to various events. They strive to educate about nutrition. The Merc cooking classes are extremely popular.
26 February 2008
at 5:26 p.m.

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George_Braziller (Anonymous) says…

Considering that there isn't a Hen House in Lawrence what's your point? Driving 30 miles to save $.20 a pound on a chicken? You'd spend more than that on gasoline.
26 February 2008
at 5:33 p.m.

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OldEnuf2BYurDad (Anonymous) says…

Marion's comment about prices is interesting. I've always considered The Merc to be a Lawrence success story, but if a “community coop” isn't beating “for profit” prices, then is it a success?

I don't expect good prices on the specialty stuff (organic, free range, free trade), but if two products are identical, then the not-for-profit should be able to do better than that. I realize that the big-box stores get volume advantages, but I also realize that they have to make their shareholders rich as well. This seems odd.

I mean, part of the benefit should be that “the man” isn't “sticking it to us”. But if “my brother” is “sticking it to us” worse than “the man”, then wouldn't we rather have “the man” “stick it to us”. This smacks of Orwell's “Animal Farm”.
26 February 2008
at 6:43 p.m.

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Marion (Marion Lynn) says…

Well, I put together a “Secret Shopper” squad of three who will be reporting back to me with real-world price comparisons on identical or similar products.

I'll get back to you with the report in a few days.
26 February 2008
at 7:03 p.m.

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RedwoodCoast (Anonymous) says…

While I worked at the Merc, there was this push by management for profit, profit, profit. Of course, it is a business establishment, and of course it needs to make money. But the warm fuzziness that I had when I started working—that of providing a service to the community—turned into a feeling that I was somehow being told push products rather than provide them. I just felt dirty. It felt contrived and insincere. It just wasn't what I thought the Merc was about when I came into it.

I want to reiterate that I do love the Merc. Granted, I do have my disagreements with the direction it has taken in the past 4 years, but it is a Lawrence success story, and people should support it. There really is no other place like it in the entire state.
26 February 2008
at 8:20 p.m.

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Stain (Anonymous) says…

Merc members get a profit-sharing bonus at the end of the year.
26 February 2008
at 8:58 p.m.

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Potawatomi (Anonymous) says…

Marion, why are you such a tattle tale? Don't be a hater. Be a congratulater.
26 February 2008
at 10:29 p.m.

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merrill (Anonymous) says…

The Merc has owner day specials , member day specials
and a number of items in the store called ” basics” which are priced at way under margin. Like any other grocery store if you shop specials as so many people do things work out not so bad. For example a Organic Valley mild Cheddar is 7.98 per lb at the Merc while at Whole Foods it is 11.98 per lb. (identical product). It's all about shopping smart no matter where you shop. The mild cheddar is a Merc “basic” item.

Plus as was mentioned a profit sharing bonus check during the year.

Also sometimes The Merc pays local suppliers more to help sustain local business people. They are not necessarily selfish by any means. Also The Merc does things such as feed lunch to the Van Go students once in awhile.

26 February 2008
at 10:47 p.m.

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Marion (Marion Lynn) says…

I can sure wind'em up, can't I?

Pavlov had nothing on me!
26 February 2008
at 11:27 p.m.

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TheEleventhStephanie (Anonymous) says…

Yeah. Peter Frampton.
27 February 2008
at 12:36 a.m.

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Marion (Marion Lynn) says…

Merrill, when I get my reports from the “Secret Shoppers” which will include documentation, we'll compare results so you *will* have your docs ready, won't you?

Cut-and-paste is not going to get it this time.
27 February 2008
at 1:39 a.m.

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Multidisciplinary (Anonymous) says…

I did a comparision of Walmart vs other's once. The biggy was that Dillon's at Wakarusa was a LOT cheaper for many medical things. Like $3.00 less on keto strips than Wally's ( the current rush for them by the Atkins people), and nearly $3.00 less than Wally's for Boost, a very necessary food drink for those doing chemo, etc.
Wally staff said they would tell their stock mgmt man.(The pharmacy doesn't control on the shelf items prices in the pharmacy section.)
Watched for weeks, the price increased $.30 , but Dillon's didn't. How's that for scalping the sick.

Bring back the market in north lawrence, who needs lawn ornaments? They should charge for just smelling an enclosed old vege market.
27 February 2008
at 2:05 a.m.

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doesnotplaywellwithothers (Anonymous) says…

cool

Is you or is you not a licensed professional and what field?

As an infrequent reader I seem to see your numerous posts on every topic over and over again.you must be an expert on everything.i have learned to skip thru anything you write.

if you are an architect why do you slam other architects and their work? With as much time to post you must not be very busy in your field.

Succesful people do not need to degrade others to bring themselves up.
27 February 2008
at 3:56 a.m.

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MacHeath (Anonymous) says…

I have an idea…If you don't like The Merc, don't go there.
Buy your large boxes of Twinkies, and 90-roll packs of Charmin at Wal-Mart, and be happy.
I like something other than Twinkies, on occasion.
As far as ad hominem attacks on Marion (ack, puft)…Its really just too easy.
27 February 2008
at 5:05 a.m.

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sdinges (Anonymous) says…

Who knew that there were such strong feelings about the Merc - and tea?!

Personally, I like the Merc's new set-up. I am always pleased to shop at the Merc, but it -is- more expensive, so I don't go if I'm watching my grocery budget. I'm a member… but I don't know that I've ever looked down on non members, or hit them with my shopping cart or whatever it is members supposedly do at the Merc (I'm not even sure how I'd tell if someone is a member or not). But then… I also shop at HyVee, so apparently I'm some kind of grocery super snob.

I just love the Merc's cooking classes. They are fantastic. If you want to improve your cooking or know someone who needs to, it's a nice, friendly atmosphere, you get to enjoy great food while you learn, and get exposed to new ingredients and recipes. They're great for beginners and experienced cooks. I would recommend them to anyone, alone or with friends.
27 February 2008
at 7:03 a.m.

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snap_pop_no_crackle (Anonymous) says…

snap writes:

Does the marioni secret shopper team of three consist of Nick Danger, outingbulkerbiz and swampfox1951?

27 February 2008
at 7:05 a.m.

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Multidisciplinary (Anonymous) says…

snap!
You're taking your meds this morning, we're so proud of you. ;-)
27 February 2008
at 11:47 a.m.

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just_another_bozo_on_this_bus (Anonymous) says…

The general contractor on this project was MarLan, not Doug Compton and First Management, his company.

Nevertheless, the use of a major contractor rather than using smaller contractors (many of whom are also members of the Merc) shows that major decisions of this kind are now determined by what is most convenient for management, even if it means overall project costs are greatly increased. And while there is a “veneer” of green in this remodel, for the most part, the same “non-green” materials and techniques were used that you'll find in any large grocery store in town.

This was the inevitable result of expanding the Merc from a coop with a few hundred members to one with several thousand while adopting an organizational model that turns all effective control over to management, with minimal input from the board and the members they represent.

But for those nostalgic for the old days, there are new coops organizing in both North and East Lawrence.
27 February 2008
at 8:28 p.m.

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RedwoodCoast (Anonymous) says…

I second that opinion, Bozo. It's like that old saying, “I love my country, but I can't stand my government.” I would also say that the board is partially to blame. I recall one person who attended a board meeting relating to me that certain members of the board couldn't understand why the Merc deli just couldn't compete with the likes of Tellers and Pachamama's. Seriously, it is a grocery store with a deli, but it has become more of a deli with a grocery store. And should that really be a primary goal of a natural foods cooperative grocery store?

I do still love the place. I put a lot of hard work and long hours into that place while I was there. I know the current management has, too, but I thought the emphasis on providing local and natural foods in a sustainable manner had been seriously eroded by people who were pushing way to hard to generate dollars.

I still advocate spending money there, but do it to support the Merc and eat healthy and local food rather than making particular managers happy because their profit margins are looking good.
27 February 2008
at 9:48 p.m.

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clyde_never_barks (Anonymous) says…

Bozo - you throwbacks just crack my $h*t up. “there are new coops organizing in both North and East Lawrence.” Classic! Maybe you should all go back to living in your coop housing on the compound too.
28 February 2008
at 1 a.m.

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Marion (Marion Lynn) says…

Bozo, are you Clark?
28 February 2008
at 6:57 a.m.

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snap_pop_no_crackle (Anonymous) says…

snap writes:

marioni, are you trying to out somebody? You've failed at that before.

BTW,

still

having

a

wonderful

internet

life

.
28 February 2008
at 8:33 a.m.

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Marion (Marion Lynn) says…

Remember the “coop” living arrangement at 1614 Kentucky all those years ago?
28 February 2008
at 8:55 a.m.

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clyde_never_barks (Anonymous) says…

Yes, I do.

15 June 2008
at 4:18 p.m.

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snap_pop_no_crackle (Anonymous) says…

cool, are you spending today making new posts on every story you've ever posted on?BTW, the cyber******ing website cool is plugging is part of a certain odious local 'forum' where you can see stellar examples of juvenile personal attacks. If that's what you're all about, I'd recommend going through proxify dot com if you want to check it out.
15 June 2008
at 4:21 p.m.

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Marion (Marion Lynn) says…

Well, The Merc may have “ambiance” but little or no financial sense.They sent me my dividends or refund check; whatever they call it and it was for around $.14.(fourteen cents) inside an envelope which cost around $.85 to mail plus the cost of printing the check.I thought that this was interesting as I haven't bought anything at The Merc for like two years.I'm not going to cash it; it's way to absurd to let go, so I might frame it as a reminder of liberal weeds-and-seeds silliness.
15 June 2008
at 5:12 p.m.

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geekin_topekan (Anonymous) says…

Marion (Marion Lynn) says: Remember the “coop” living arrangement at 1614 Kentucky all those years ago?+++You mean Terra,Mark,Boog,Brenna,Niomi,Kurt and Keith?Wow,that was many moons ago!I think Clark and Bran were there too.Now,someone said something about Twinkies?
15 June 2008
at 5:12 p.m.

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hwarangdo (Anonymous) says…

Ya'll sound like a bunch of old women.If you'd read the Merc statements with your refund check, you'd see that they are required BY LAW to issue the checks - no matter how small. Like paying taxes. Same thing.Personally I was around in the 70's when the Merc began to take shape. It has come a long way. If the current Merc doesn't please some people, who cares?Some people just like finding fault with everything and everyone, especially if it might involve “liberals” whatever the heck that means.For those of us who shop at the Merc regularly, most of us just like buying good food and supporting what the Merc stands for (for those of you who care about that, just go read their statements of mission). We like shopping where we can see how many miles a certain item has been trucked in (oil, oil, oil), whether it is certified organic and FRESH (as opposed to a certain grocery which boasts organic produce that is very old and wilted … like certain politicians and their supporters).One other thing - although certain foods are imported here simply because that's where those foods are grown - like tea, coffee, spices, tropical fruit, etc., one might be interested to know that much of America's food sold in the average grocery store is imported. Why is that? Why is our gov't paying farmers not to grow food that can be sold right here? Check out the source of frozen green beans sold at Dillons - they are from CHINA. Now, if you know anything at all about the heavy metal pollution in the major rivers in China, that might be a bit scary. One cannot see the sky in Bejing most of the time because of the smog, and the rivers are dead, as well as the soil. Personally, I'd rather buy produce from a local farmer IF it wasn't produced with toxic petro-chemicals that further deplete oil supplies.But that's just my opinion, and I'm sure there's always a snappy comeback from the anti-liberals. Frankly my dear, I don't give a dime what all this anti-Merc, anti-liberal, anti-everyone, anti-left, anti-hippie, anti-human being stuff. But it passes the time, doesn't it? And keeps the right-wing watch-dogs busy … By the way, there's a liquor store right next to the Merc for those of you who need a refill.
15 June 2008
at 6:35 p.m.

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Marion (Marion Lynn) says…

geekin:I am referring to the '69-71 time frame.
15 June 2008
at 7:18 p.m.

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geekin_topekan (Anonymous) says…

OOOhh!A little before my time.
15 June 2008
at 7:31 p.m.

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Marion (Marion Lynn) says…

Yeah; Riscoe, Johnson, Weissmiller, etc.
15 June 2008
at 7:45 p.m.

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Marion (Marion Lynn) says…

And The Merc has the “ambience” of the sit-down areas of the old Seven-Eleven stores!LOL!

15 June 2008
at 7:58 p.m.

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Marion (Marion Lynn) says…

By the way, being “rejected” by The Merc is kinda like receiving a medal.
15 June 2008
at 9:23 p.m.

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George_Braziller (Anonymous) says…

Blah, blah, blah. Marion if you hate it so much then don't shop there and quit your verbal vomit.
15 June 2008
at 9:47 p.m.

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Marion (Marion Lynn) says…

Hey, George!There is nothing at The Merc which cannot be purchased for less elsewhere.svengalli:”Their money is green”Woo Hoo!From mould, maybe.
15 June 2008
at 10:16 p.m.

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thebcman (Anonymous) says…

hey marioni .. my dog wants to know where in lawrence he can buy his mr barky vegetarian dog biscuits for less than what the merc is selling 'em for.
15 June 2008
at 10:28 p.m.

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Haiku_Cuckoo (Anonymous) says…

my dog wants to know where in lawrence he can buy his mr barky vegetarian dog biscuits for less than what the merc is selling 'em for.==========He's a dog. Buy him Milk Bone biscuits, he'll never know the difference!What's that? Your dog is a vegetarian?! No he's not. Dogs are carnivores. Every time you buy a box of vegetarian dog biscuits Mr. Barky laughs at you! Since your dog apparently possesses remarkable communication skills, ask him what he would like to eat. I'm certain he'll respond by saying, “a big juicy steak.”
15 June 2008
at 10:38 p.m.

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hwarangdo (Anonymous) says…

Whatever would some of you do if you couldn't bash the Merc every minute of your day?!Imagine the TIME!Yes, dogs are carnivores but they'll eat anything. Everyone likes big juicy steaks … until mad cow that is … don't forget the dog food problem awhile back. Even Korea doesn't want US beef.Thank you George B. for what many of us already think :)Peace! (can we still say that?)
15 June 2008
at 11:04 p.m.

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Marion (Marion Lynn) says…

thebcman (Anonymous) says: hey marioni .. my dog wants to know where in lawrence he can buy his mr barky vegetarian dog biscuits for less than what the merc is selling 'em for.”Marion writes:”Vegetarian dog biscuits”?What?You do not like your dogs?Dogs are *NOT* vegetarians, you dummy!You are trying to impose human misdirected values on critters which have very specific nutrition requirements.You should not be permitted to take care of dogs.You can starve yourself by being a “vegetarian” if you like but you do not have the right to impose your sick and deluded “weeds-and-seeds” on our Canine/Lupine freinds.You are committing animal abuse and should be prosecuted.I hope that your post was a joke.
15 June 2008
at 11:18 p.m.

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Multidisciplinary (Anonymous) says…

thanks cool, now I'm craving a pepsi><–I once knew a family who decided they would make their own special dog food. They got a 'great recipe” etc. The dog lost all his hair, the vets didn't know what was wrong.

16 June 2008
at 1:20 a.m.

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Boston_Corbett (Anonymous) says…

Worth repeating:cool (Anonymous) says: …YES, i did submit a proposal for the Merc remodel. . .
16 June 2008
at 1:23 a.m.

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Boston_Corbett (Anonymous) says…

worth repeating:doesnotplaywellwithothers (Anonymous) says:cool: . . .Is you or is you not a licensed professional and what fieldAs an infrequent reader I seem to see your numerous posts on every topic over and over again.you must be an expert on everything.i have learned to skip thru anything you write.if you are an architect why do you slam other architects and their work? With as much time to post you must not be very busy in your field.Succesful people do not need to degrade others to bring themselves up.
16 June 2008
at 8:21 a.m.

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snap_pop_no_crackle (Anonymous) says…

girlfriendissofunnywhenhe'sbeingallrighteous&judgmentalandstuff.BTW,stillhavingawonderfulinternetlife.
23 June 2008
at 3:21 p.m.

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MarkyMark (Anonymous) says…

I see this discussion started way back in February and now continues on in June and since I've just seen it, I really want to comment since I'm very familiar with the merc. As usual there are several sides to this story, and I guess I'd like to discuss the so-called mission statement of the merc. About that statement, you might want to ask the many fired or harrassed into quitting ex merc employees how they feel about the “mission,” ask them how the working conditions are, how the pay is, how they were denied earned benefits, and how they were treated by management.There's this funny idea that the merc is good, noble, and close to the gods just because it's the merc. Well it isn't anymore. While it may have started on a mission, that was lost long ago in the push for ever higher profits and a basic dislike of pesky employees. I remember one employee meeting where madam GM informed us we were just costing the merc too much, there we were working hard and eroding their profits. What she didn't say was how they'd solve that problem…it's called getting rid of people however you have to do it.Merc prices are so problamatic aren't they, and the staff and management know it, and they knowingly mark the stuff up and laugh about it. And you might be surprised to know how much stuff is delivered by the big bad Sysco, et al, and how much of that bad Sysco stuff is used in the deli…and how the only time local meat is used in the deli is when it's no longer salable to the public.There is more, much more, but I'll put the rest in my memoirs…the worst of it is not the all for profit mentality, the ever bigger sales totals greed, in effect simply ripping people off, the worst is the way they treat people. It's not just employees, really they find the customers pretty pesky too.