As a 20 year veteran of the hospitality industry, I had thought I was in the position where I simply could not be surprised by a confrontational person in a restaurant, especially when I was the guest. While sitting at a hi table, I was approached by an employee, Sean Kearns, who informed me that I would need to purchase something in order to remain in the shop. Noticing the empty tables around me, I was taken back by the situation. I responded that I was awaiting the arrival of my girlfriend and once she got there we would purchase something. Sean explained that was unacceptable, as I had already been there for 40 minutes. I needed to purchase something immediately. At this point I began looking around for the crew from PUNKED. Sean explained that he was following the directions of his corporate office which clearly stipulates that in order for a patron to use internet service, they MUST be a paying customer. Now I suppose that is a reasonable position, as it is a business and as such the bottom line is a concern. Keeping that in mind, I reiterated that once my girlfriend arrived I would be purchasing something, as I do each time I visit. Sean said that wouldn't do. I suggested that he was being ridiculous, it shouldn't make a difference if I spend $$ now, or as I walk out the door. A purchase is a purchase, and as a paying customer I'll spend my $$ when I want to. As if the situation wasn't foolish enough, Sean now insisted I leave. He proceeded to pull my power cord from the outlet, saying that I ""Could not use their electricity."" I said that my computer had a long battery life and that I'd be staying. Sean proceeded to stand over the table in a very confrontational manner and insist that I leave. It was at this point my girlfriend arrived, and I figured it best to end the situation before it got ugly.\r
While this kid's lack of professionalism was comical, it least he's right where he should be, standing behind a counter saying, ""Large or small?""
Pros: Free internet
Cons: Silly, non-revenue producing employees.
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