This Is America, Hot Dogs Should Be Readily Available

Beer, peanuts & hot dogs (and making babies in trucks). That's what MLB baseball games are for.

The Angels switched their concession company from Aramark to Legends this season, and their performance to begin this year would have made Joe Blanton blush.


I had no issue eating hot dogs that were sitting in warm water for hours at a bikini bar, so I don't care how it's prepared, just give me my damn hot dog. On time.
I had the pleasure of waiting 15 minutes for a hot dog after I paid for it at the second game of the season. I thought I'd share my feelings with them shortly after.
----------------------------------------------------------
April 2
You have probably already received 100s of messages about your new concessions company, Legends, but I needed to contribute.

I attended the first two games of this season and both times I have been disappointed. Very long lines, slow service and food wasn't even ready.

Where in an American ballpark is a hot dog not ready?

Last night I ordered 4 hot dogs for my family around 7pm at the Grand Stand in the club level. It's not like I ordered 20 hot dogs, I ordered 4; and that amount should be readily available for any individual.

I got 3 right away, but had to wait for the 4th. I waited 10 minutes in front of the workers... I finally had to leave because I had someone waiting for me at gate 4 for a ticket.

I had to go back to the concessions stand to pick up the hot dog, so I don't know the exact timing, but 15 minutes for a single hot dog is unacceptable.

I had the same long line experience on opening night.

I won't be buying any food at the stadium until I hear that there has been significant improvement by the Legends group.

Oh how I miss Aramark already.
----------------------------------------------------------

Garbage Tacos To Go, Please

America was built on great ideas and with hard work, and as a Mexican-American, I like to consider the taco a tribute to that.

The taco might have been invented in Mexico, but America has taken it to a whole new level. That with food trucks, "fusion" restaurants putting their own spin on them, or at home concocting a taco while inebriated assembling all its parts from leftovers in the refrigerator.

This gave me an idea, why can't I make my own taco at a restaurant with food that people are done with and have no desire to take it home. I asked Yardhouse that exact question.

Enjoy.

---

Good Morning, YH.

I want to preface this by stating that I love your dining establishment. I always enjoy the food, beer and service.

I wanted to bounce an idea by you, or if I could get a secret passcode to allow me to order an item. I was at your Brea location last Saturday with a group of friends. I noticed many of the group members didn't finish their plates. That saddened me.

It probably wasn't due to the food quality, I think they were full from libations. That is when it hit me: what if I can get all the items in a tortilla, and take a "garbage" (for the lack of a better term) burrito to-go? There was a plate with rice and beans, one with some lettuce, and another with meat. It would have been perfect!

I brought this up to the waitress, and even told her I'd pay $9 for the burrito. I hate wasting food, and I'm sure you do as well. So why not save the food, AND make some money on it.

That burrito would have been mighty tasty later that evening, or in the morning (to recover from my, ahem, "headache.")

Please let me know if I can get a green light from one of your locations for this, and pass along the passcode to use for this.

Like I said, I will pay for it. I just hate seeing good food go to waste.

Please consider this as a real request, this is not a joke.

I look forward to hearing back from you. Thank you, Jon

---

Guest Relations

10/18/13

Dear Mr. Castillo:

It is great knowing how much you enjoy dining at Yard House.

We understand how upsetting it can be to see food go to waste and appreciate your interest in having us offer a leftover-based taco to combat this.

While we cannot incorporate every idea or suggestion presented to us, we do have a recommendation that you may find acceptable. With your dining companion's permission, we would be happy to package up their leftovers for you.

We appreciate the time you took to contact us.

Sincerely,

Justin Yard House Guest Relations

---

10/18/13

Thanks for the response, Justin!

But can I get a tortilla from the kitchen at a small cost to make the burrito? See, Wifey doesn't let me buy tortillas because she is #TeamNoCarbs so I can never make a burrito at home.

So I need to have a tortilla provided to me by your restaurant.

What is the cost of the tortilla, and is there an additional fee for a chef to wrap the burrito for me?

This makes me very happy.

Look forward to your response.

Regards,

Jon

---

Three Days Went By Without a Response, So I Followed Up With J-Man

---

Just wanted to follow up on this since I will be going again this weekend.

Here is my latest response that I am following up on:

But can I get a tortilla from the kitchen at a small cost to make the burrito? See, Wifey doesn't let me buy tortillas because she is #TeamNoCarbs so I can never make a burrito at home.

So I need to have a tortilla provided to me by your restaurant.

What is the cost of the tortilla, and is there an additional fee for a chef to wrap the burrito for me?

This makes me very happy.

Look forward to your response.

Thanks!

---

10/21/13

Dear Mr. Castillo:

Thank you for replying.

While we can not bring leftovers back into our kitchen, we would be able to provide you with some tortillas (pricing would need to be discussed with the management team there in Brea as we traditionally do not sell just the tortillas by themselves).

Please be aware, we only have one size tortilla and they are smaller, street taco sized.

We hope this information proves helpful and we look forward to serving you again soon.

Sincerely,

Justin Yard House Guest Relations

---

10/21/13

Awesome, Justin!

Tacos are just as good as burritos! Final quest': do you know what brand of tortillas the restaurants use?

Also, I don't want to corner this just to Brea, as I visit the Costa Mesa one too. So they'd be down to sell me the tortillas as well, right?

Thanks again J-Man!

---

A follow up the next day

Afternoon, Justin.

Sorry, also do you know what kind of tortillas: corn or flour? Probably corn since they're street. But you never know.

And just following up, do you know what brand of tortillas the restaurants use?

Also, I don't want to corner this just to Brea, as I visit the Costa Mesa one too. So they'd be down to sell me the tortillas as well, right?

Thank you,

Jon

---

10/22/13

Dear Mr. Castillo:

Thank you again for replying.

Any of our restaurant should be willing to do this for you.

I wish I could be more help regarding the brand of tortillas we use. Unfortunately, we would consider this proprietary information and can not share it. Sorry for any disappointment this may cause.

We can share that we offer both corn and flour.

We appreciate the time you took to contact us and look forward to serving you again soon.

Sincerely,

Justin Yard House Guest Relations

---

10/22/13

Thanks man - no worries about the brand, totes understand!

I'll send you guys pictures of the creations I get from my "table tornado tacos." What a name, right? Maybe you can share with your team and create a cork board of my pics.

Stay shaka,

Jon

---

---

Sadly, to-date, I haven't made table tornado tacos, but I will in the near future and send them J-Man's way.

Although not a win, I am proud to know I have served the public to get an establishment to admit how awesome we are... and tacos. Mainly tacos.

Winging - Hooters Style

When Hooters opened by Angels stadium I instantly become a frequent visitor; living walking distance to the new restaurant it made the establishment a regular on my schedule. A meeting place for friends, a birthday party destination, or the place to enjoy wings before & after Angels games.

Like Buffalo Wild Wings learned from me, dessert coupons from wing places don't fly well with me.
I recently voiced my concern to them... my love for this place will never die.

(The Anaheim location actually holds a special place in my heart, not because I used to go there so often, but because I made some magic in their parking lot... but that's a story for another day).
_________________________________________________

Original message to Hooters in Contact Us area of their website (8/23/2012)

Hello My Beloved Hooters,

I am writing you with a bit of disappointment. I am a proud Hoot Club member that appreciates the emails and updates of the goings on of the restaurant.

My anniversary of the Hoot Club membership has come up and I was blessed to get a free dessert coupon. However, I don't go to Hooters for desserts :(

I go to your beautiful restaurants for the delicious wings (or anything with your wing sauce) and beer. In my lifetime I have never ordered a dessert from yourmenu, and frankly didn't know a dessert menu existed.

Do you have the statistics of how many people order dessert? I am just curious why I am getting sent a dessert coupon when you can offer so much more at the same price.

I hope you understand where I am coming from. I'm not a dessert person so I don't know that I can use the coupon. I'm more of a salt guy, and definitely a wings guy.

If there's anything you can do, it would be greatly appreciated. Hope to hear from you soon, as I will be at your beautiful establishment next Friday for my fantasy football draft (what a Friday, am I right?!?! Football, Hooters and Beer = Heaven).

Thank you for your time and God Bless America.

Wingingly Yours,

Jon 

_____________________________________________________

Message from Hooters Support (8/25/2012)

Dear Mr. Castillo:

We at the Hooters Hotline received your comments regarding your Hooters Email Club Coupon. We genuinely apologize for the dissatisfaction and appreciate your taking the time to write us.  Feedback such as yours helps us identify ways to improve in our continuous quest to deliver the ultimate Hooters guest experience.

Because we want to share your remarks with our restaurant, we have forwarded your message to the appropriate contacts for direct follow up with you.  Our desire is to make Hooters your choice once again for terrific food, beverages, and fun.

Thank you, Mr. Castillo, for sharing your comments.  We apologize again and look forward to making your next Hooters visit a pleasant and memorable one.

Should you like more information about us, please visit us on the Web at www.hooters.com.

Sincerely,

Kay
Hooters Hotline...We give a Hoot!

P.S. Please retain the ticket number located below. This will help us locate your information should you need us again.

8001773888

_____________________________________________________

Follow-up message to Hooters Support

Thanks Kay,

I appreciate taking the time to show your loyal customers that you care about our feedback. It really means a lot... being ignored is the worst feeling in the world. 

Can't wait to receive a follow-up. Do you think it will be before Friday? Also, do you have the statistics about the dessert ordering? In my line of business I do a lot of data analysis and I am curious to know what the statistics are... surely each location reports their sales through a POS system and you have a corporate report to monitor what is selling well, right?

This type of stuff interests me since I'd like to think one day I can open a restaurant for kicks when I'm a lot older. I would change my name to Gordon and yell at everyone in the kitchen: "this tastes like 5 day old play doh!" "what you consider food, I consider guano!"

I would work 7 days a week and spend all my time there, eating and drinking all our inventory. Then I can get on TV with the real Gordon Ramsey on Kitchen Nightmares. 

But I digress (dreams). 

Again, thanks for the time and I hope to receive that follow-up soon...

Stay Saucey,

Jon

_____________________________________________________

Message from Marketing Director (8/30/2012)

Hi Jon,

Let me first apologize for not getting right back to you.  I am the Marketing Director here at West Coast Hooters and have been traveling all week so I haven't been able to respond.  A manager at Anaheim Hooters said he tried to reach out to you, as well, and has 10 free boneless wings ready for you on your next visit. Did you receive anything from him? 

I appreciate you taking the time out to write to us and provide your feedback.  Our Hoot Club offers a few different kinds of coupons depending on the occasion.  We do have great desserts but I can understand not everybody likes them. 

This time of year we actually have some great deals going on that you can take advantage of, including Countdown To Kickoff specials.  I attached the specials so you can take a look.  Also, on Monday, our Labor Day special is 20 boneless wings for just $9.99.

The manager over at Anaheim Hooters will reach out to you again today.  Enjoy your wings and thanks for being a loyal guest!

Jessica XXXXX

Director of Marketing

______________________________________________________

Email Correspondence with the Anaheim General Manager (8/30/2012)

From: Hooters of Anaheim <ahmhooters@hootwinc.com>


To: "djtwanza@yahoo.com" <djtwanza@yahoo.com>

Sent: Thursday, August 30, 2012 8:38 AM
Subject: Boneless wings for dessert

Hi Jon,

My name is Scott XXXX, I am the General Manager here at Hooters of Anaheim. I am very sorry to hear that we did not respond to you in a timely manner. That is unacceptable and I apologize. I see that you are fan of Hooters and our wings sauces. I would be more than happy to give you 10 boneless wings for dessert. Please ask for me when you arrive tomorrow. I am looking forward to meeting you.

Scott XXXXX

General Manager

_________________________________

From: greg johnson [mailto:djtwanza@yahoo.com]

Sent: Thursday, August 30, 2012 12:43 PM

To: Hooters of Anaheim
Subject: Re: Boneless wings for dessert

Hi Scott,

No worries! I wasn't upset, I was just hoping to see if I could get a response prior to tomorrow, thanks for reaching out. And thank you very much for the offer! I really appreciate that! I will ask for you when I arrive (will be the football draft group).

Thanks again Scott! If you've been a GM there since 2009 I have a funny story to share with you regarding that year.

Regards,

Jon

_________________________________

I have not been the GM since 2009. I actually got here last year in September. I am always up for hearing a funny story. Looking forward to hearing it tomorrow night.

Scott

_________________________________________________

_________________________________________________

I'll be visiting the restaurant tomorrow night and update with photos soon.

(And possibly sharing the story I will be sharing with the GM tomorrow evening).

#Winging

- Note: last names hidden for privacy

Grand Openings - 7-Eleven

The wonderful mini-market, 7-Eleven, puts together great grand openings for their new locations. Problem is they cater to non-working and/or people that work directly in the area. Well, the new 7-Eleven near the apartment was due to open, but while I was work.

No Lakers girls, no samples, no trying to find the 7-Eleven twitter account owners for prizes ... *sad face* I had to talk to Mr. Eleven himself.
____________________________________________________________

Sent to 7-11 "Contact Us"

To Whom It May Concern:

"Today is Make Up Your Own Holiday Day!", "We think so too! RT @krutchgirl: Its a slurpee kind-a day...☺ #ILoveFridays," "ELITE 8." Those are the kind of tweets going on for the Southern California 7-11 twitter feed.

Who or whomever runs that twitter has time to write such uninspired comments, however, cannot answer my real question.

I don't know how many times I have to ask, "when will the new 7-11 off of Chapman in Fullerton, CA open?"

Is it too much to ask for a response? Is my excitement for a store opening that annoying?

If I were running a franchise I'd like to let the public know about a store opening instead of keeping them in the dark.

Am I wrong for wanting to know the date of opening? Is it a secret?

I thought it would be easier to send a quick tweet asking about the store opening, but I've yet to receive a response.

Instead, I've been forced to using the "contact us" on this website.

So please, please tell me you can provide the date of the new 7-11 off of Chapman in Fullerton, CA. Please.

Snack Master,
Jon
____________________________________________________________

From: "Appia, Janey"
To: castillo_jon@yahoo.com
Cc: "7-11 Customer Relations" <7-11custrel@7-11.com>

Dear Mr. Castillo:

First, let me apologize for not responding to your email sooner, but I
was actually waiting for a response from our division office. I
received an email today that the store on Chapman was opened on April
4th.

Thank you again for your interest in 7-Eleven, Inc.

Janey Appia
Manager, Consumer Affairs

____________________________________________________________

Re: FW: Case #: 1103301233
Friday, April 15, 2011 3:14 PM
From: "Jon Castillo"
To: "JaneyAppia"
Cc: "7-11 Customer Relations" <7-11custrel@7-11.com>

Hi Janey,

That is okay - it at least saved me a few dollars in the mean time. I am a snack master and 7-11 is my proverbrial art store to my snacking artistry.

This is great news, though. So I can properly plan my spending, is there a list of items available at this location that I can review? I know what you're thinking, I can just go to the store and find out myself.

Problem is, I have OCEU disorder (obsessive compulsive excel user). Have you seen that show Extreme Couponing? I plan out my purchases much like they do, but I focus on smaller markets.

That's what is great about the 7-11 opening near my apartment! I no longer have to go to grocery stores.

I have a great relationship with Frito-Lay, as I helped them make the Tapatio Dorito chip available in bigger bag sizes.

Also, I am not sure if you can answer this, but do I get charged more if I make a concoction with the food items? For example, I thoroughly enjoy the nacho station, but sometimes I like to add hot dog to them (similar to a chili cheese dog).

Would I get charged extra to do something like that in the store?

Again, thank you for responding and look forward to your responses.
I am going to get started on my new template for the store, please let me know if you'd like me to send it to you, should someone would be able to populate the available item information on it.

Snackirely,
Jon
____________________________________________________________

7-Eleven Customer comments
Thursday, April 14, 2011 5:50 PM
From: "Kyte, Judith"
To: castillo_jon@yahoo.com

Thank you for letting us know of your pleasure with our new 7-Eleven in Fullerton on Chapman and Victoria.

Please stop by Friday, April 22nd and celebrate the official Grand Opening with us. Lots of samples and fun activities.

Judi Kyte
Field Consultant

714-869-6092
____________________________________________________________

Re: 7-Eleven Customer comments
Friday, April 15, 2011 3:27 PM
From: "Jon Castillo"
To: "JudithKyte"

Hi Judi!

A grand opening! How awesome! I heard it already has opened, but I will wait until the 22nd to go to the new store!

How long does the grand opening celebration go on for? Meaning when will the samples and fun activities take place?

I am so glad it is on the 22nd for two reasons:
1. I get paid on the 20th, so I'll have plenty of money to buy my favorite snacks!
2. It's Friday! Meaning I will have my boombox to provide extra entertainment for the other customers that go to the grand opening.

I have the latest hit single by Rebecca Black all set for that day now! Have you heard it, "It's Friday's?"

I also have some musically talented friends: rapper, guitar players, DJs, etc. Should I invite them as well?

Will the person that operates the Southern California - Orange County 7-11 Twitter be at the grand opening as well? I would like to discuss with them why they ignored me on Twitter when I asked them about the grand opening.

I think my Twitter content is pretty great so I got a little upset they didn't respond.

I received another email regarding the opening (since I sent my request a couple of times on the site), but maybe you can answer my question to them as well... are you able to provide the list of snacks available in the new store?

It is easier for me to maintain my spending by entering this information in a template (similar to how people do it on Extreme Couponing). It's rather hard for me to go to every aisle and do it manually (and I dont think the store wants me loitering for hours). Let me know if this is possible.

Oh I am so excited! Are there any coupons that I can take advantage of?

SnacKingly Yours,
Jon
____________________________________________________________

From: Kyte, Judith
Subject: Re: 7-Eleven Customer comments
To: castillo_jon@yahoo.com
Date: Friday, April 15, 2011, 3:34 PM

Everyone is welcome but DJ and radio remote is already scheduled. Festivities are from 11am to 3 pm. Lots of samples. See you there!
____________________________________________________________

From: Jon Castillo [mailto:castillo_jon@yahoo.com]
Sent: Friday, April 15, 2011 05:43 PM
To: Kyte, Judith
Subject: Re: 7-Eleven Customer comments

Hi Judi,
:( :(

But what about the working force? I will be at work during that time... and work away from Fullerton.

I can't take advantage of samples, music and activities?

Can I get a raincheck on the samples?

- Jon
____________________________________________________________

From: Kyte, Judith
Subject: Re: 7-Eleven Customer comments
To: castillo_jon@yahoo.com
Date: Friday, April 15, 2011, 5:08 PM

I will let the Franchisee know. There are flyers with coupons. I will make sure you get some of the good stuff. E-mail me if you don't get flyers.

____________________________________________________________

Re: FW: Case #: 1103301233
Tuesday, April 19, 2011 8:30 AM
From: "Jon Castillo"
To: "JaneyAppia"

Hi Janey,

Just following up to see if you had some news on the email I sent you...

I am pasting it in the body of this email as a reminder. Let me know, thank you!
____________________________________________________________

From: Jon Castillo [mailto:castillo_jon@yahoo.com]
Sent: Tuesday, April 19, 2011 12:57 PM
To: Kyte, Judith
Subject: Re: 7-Eleven Customer comments

Thanks Judi,

Thank you very much. Coupons are good - are flyers being sent to local Fullerton residents or is it acquired at the store?

Also, can they set a samples plate aside for me since I won't be making it during the celebration?

- Jon
____________________________________________________________

From: Kyte, Judith
Subject: Re: 7-Eleven Customer comments
To: castillo_jon@yahoo.com
Date: Tuesday, April 19, 2011, 11:06 AM

At the store. Tell staff my name. I'll let them know
____________________________________________________________

From: Jon Castillo [mailto:castillo_jon@yahoo.com]
Sent: Friday, April 22, 2011 10:23 PM
To: Kyte, Judith
Subject: Re: 7-Eleven Customer comments

Dear Judi,

Well my fears were confirmed. I went to the store immediately after work, and got there around 6 PM. I purchased some beverages and let the cashier know about our discussion, he kindly smiled and said there was nothing there for me.

Another worker overheard our conversation and asked if I wanted to purchase pizza at a discount. I kindly declined, and asked if she knew about something being held for me per Judi Kyte's instructions.

Nothing. No coupons. No samples. No leftover scent of the Lakers girls. I left with beverages, less money in my pocket, and not even a receipt to show for it.

Would you kindly deliver on the "good stuff?" Let me know. I will even take a Fullerton Chapman/Victoria 7-11 shirt and wear it with pride, even after a letdown experience.

Thanks Judi, I hope my weening faith is just a temporary feeling.

Good Night,
Jon
____________________________________________________________

From: Kyte, Judith
Subject: Re: 7-Eleven Customer comments
To: castillo_jon@yahoo.com
Date: Saturday, April 23, 2011, 10:20 AM

I'm sorry. There were so many people at the event and everyone was crazy. Are you planning to go to store this weekend? I will be there Mon am
____________________________________________________________

From: Jon Castillo [mailto:castillo_jon@yahoo.com]
Sent: Sunday, April 24, 2011 11:21 PM
To: Kyte, Judith
Subject: Re: 7-Eleven Customer comments

Hi Judi,

Unfortunately, I was not able to go to the store again this weekend.

Should I just give you my address then? I cannot go tomorrow morning because I work the normal monday through friday grind.

There has to be some stuff laying around the store, or promotional items that corporate always offers, right?

Let me know, I just want a little taste of happiness.

- Jon
____________________________________________________________

From: Kyte, Judith
Subject: Re: 7-Eleven Customer comments
To: castillo_jon@yahoo.com
Date: Monday, April 25, 2011, 6:57 AM

That's good and I'll mail coupons.

(Editor's note: this was my favorite response. "That's good," what the hell is that referring to and what does it mean?!?!?)
____________________________________________________________

From: Jon Castillo [mailto:castillo_jon@yahoo.com]
Sent: Monday, April 25, 2011 3:49 PM
To: Kyte, Judith
Subject: Re: 7-Eleven Customer comments

Thanks Judi,

xxx E. Wilshire Ave., Apt x
Fullerton, CA 92832

Feel free to throw in any extra goodies.

- Jon
____________________________________________________________

From: Kyte, Judith
Subject: RE: 7-Eleven Customer comments
To: "Jon Castillo"
Date: Monday, April 25, 2011, 5:20 PM

Requested coupons be mailed to you.
____________________________________________________________

RE: 7-Eleven Customer comments
Monday, May 2, 2011 9:41 PM
From: "Jon Castillo"
To: "JudithKyte"

I got them today, Judi! (2 free big gulps and 2 free taquitos!)
Hey, do you know where I can get a slurpee 2gb usb drive?

____________________________________________________________

Re: 7-Eleven Customer comments
Tuesday, May 3, 2011 6:20 AM
From: "Kyte, Judith"
To: castillo_jon@yahoo.com

I don't know about a Slurpee drive. Enjoy
____________________________________________________________

Final thoughts:
I call this one a baby win - the amount of emails I sent to only receive 2 big gulps and 2 taquitos is not a very high percentage. Oh well, complainers can't be picky.

Birthday Coupon Turned Right

Buffalo Wild Wings. When I say that restaurant name, what do you immediately think of? Wings, right?

And what's the last thing you would think about? Fudge cake, right? Well I was a little upset when I received a "birthday" coupon for free dessert. Enjoy.

__________________________________________________________

4/18/11 9:03:00 PM via the Buffalo Wild Wings Contact Us

To Whom It May Concern:

Cake, cake, dessert, cake.
Why is cake thrown down our throats when it's our birthday? I am very appreciative of what I have in my life: my rally monkey, my Angels beer koozie, my wrestling mask and my Lakers blanket.

But why does everyone insist that we eat cake for our birthdays? I guarantee whomever is reading this is getting a little uneasy thinking about the time the office has collectively surrounded you, and a cake, to sing you happy birthday.

I go to Buffalo Wild Wings for the wings (and the beer helps), I do not go there for dessert. I am very appreciative the the Birthday coupon for a free dessert, however, I enjoy BWW for it's fried chicken delights.

That being said, do you think I can get something else free other than cake? I mean, I crave cake every now and again, but it's not something I think pairs particularly well with buffalo wings.

I was looking over your menu and I am willing to take on an item that is of equal or lesser value than the free dessert. The fudge cake is 4.99, so by that logic I can take home a dry rub or sauce (and I'll be saving you money because they are cheaper - yay for savings!).

Or I am more than happy to dine on some fries, chips & salsa, buffalo chips, whatever is 4.99 or less.

Please let me know if this is possible, it would be the greatest gift you guys can give me! I don't like cake because it reminds me of 50 Cent... he scares me *sad face*

And please open Brea! (I can help, I'm Mexican)
Love,
Jon
__________________________________________________________

Buffalo Wild Wings Birthday
from Buena Park
to castillo.jon@gmail.com
date Wed, Apr 20, 2011 at 7:40 AM
subject Buffalo Wild Wings Birthday

Hello Jon
I read your comment and if you want I can offer you 6 free wings
instead of the cake. Just bring this e-mail with the birthday cake
coupon and give it to a manager and we will take care of it for you.
Thank you
John Bishop
District Manager
__________________________________________________________

from Jon Castillo
to Buena Park
date Wed, Apr 20, 2011 at 8:17 AM
subject Re: Buffalo Wild Wings Birthday

Good Morning John,

Thank you very much! This is awesome news, I guess great Johns do think alike!
I look forward to my visit to BWW Buena Park to enjoy the wings!
I think I'll do the wing challenge in your honor (my cousin did it last successfully on Saturday, but he threw up when he got home. His reasoning was that there was "no way" he was going to let them digest. Guess he couldn't handle the "after burn").

Have a Great One,
The other Jon
__________________________________________________________

---------- Forwarded message ----------

From: "Markos Dragas"
Date: Apr 19, 2011 6:52 AM
Subject: Re: Sharing Guest Feedback
To: "Matt Dragas"
Cc: "louisdragas@socalwings.com" , "wdragas@socalwings.com" , "Heather Duncan"

This guy made me laugh. We should give him a shirt or something...

Thanks,

Markos Dragas
President, the Dragas Group
Partner, Fire & Vine
President/Partner, SoCal Wings
__________________________________________________________

from Matthew Dragas
to castillo.jon@gmail.com
date Wed, Apr 20, 2011 at 4:18 PM
subject Fwd: Re: Sharing Guest Feedback

Jon,

I would love to offer you a chance to come back to the restaurant for $25 of wings and a free T-shirt. Please print this out and give it to the manager.

PS. Thanks for making the whole office laugh. :^)-

Matt Dragas, MBA
COO SoCal Wings and Dragas Subsidiaries
297 N State College
Apt 2095
Orange, CA 92868
949.677.3426 Cell
__________________________________________________________

from Jon Castillo
to Matthew Dragas
date Wed, Apr 20, 2011 at 4:25 PM
subject Re: Re: Sharing Guest Feedback

Dear Matt,

I think I love you.
Thank you so much! I will kindly take you up on that offer!

And you're welcome, glad I can help with some stress relief through laughter.
Look forward to devouring the wings and wearing my shirt with pride.

If you're around the restaurant when I'm there I'll even buy you a beer.

Cheers,
Jon
__________________________________________________________

The victory pose.

And the victory evidence (receipt on top of free shirt).

"This Isn't Build-A-Burger"

Burgers are at the top of my list for an All-American meal. I've never taken my Southern California delight, In-N-Out, for granted.

That's why I believe I should be able to order a 6x6 at any time... I appreciate the beauty of 6 beefy, juicy beef patties in one burger.

Just let me order it without having to build it...

___________________________________________________
February 13, 2011 8:35 PM
Sent to In N Out via "contact us"

To Whom It May Concern:

Could you please provide a list of In N Out's in the Fullerton (Southern California) region other than the location off Harbor Blvd.?

What I am looking for is the locations that are willing to serve me bigger than a 4x4 size. I tried to order a 6x6 yesterday at the Harbor Blvd. location in Fullerton and they informed me that "we don't do that here."

Why not? I have seen pictures on the internet where they do three times that amount. The reason I want to be able to order a 6x6 is because two double doubles don't satisfy me.

I finish those two delicious hamburgers and want more, immediately. Instead of going through all that bread I thought to myself "what easier way than ordering a 6x6?"

Not only am I saving the time it takes to put together three separate hamburgers, I am also saving bread that can be used to feed the ducks.

Please kindly let me know what locations I can order a beautiful 6x6 and I will forever be grateful.

Love your burgers and look forward to handling 6 of the best hamburger patties in one burger.

Thank you,
Jon
___________________________________________________
From: Customer Service
Date: Mon, Feb 14, 2011 at 7:12 PM
Subject: Regarding your inquiry at the IN-N-OUT Burger® Web Site.
To: castillo.jon@gmail.com

Dear Mr. Jon Castillo:

Thank you for your e-mail. We recognize customers like you have made us the company we are today, and we sincerely value your comments and interest.

In response to your inquiry, In-N-Out Burger® is firmly committed to maintaining the quality and presentation of the food we serve. It is with this commitment in mind that we have set serving sizes for our burgers, and the largest burger we prepare is a 4x4. However, you are welcomed to order a 4x4 and two cheese patties on the side.

We are sorry for any disappointment and will share your comments with our management team.

Thanks again for taking the time to contact us, and for giving us an opportunity to respond. We hope you will consider giving us the continued privilege of serving you in the future.

Sincerely,

Andrea
Customer Service
___________________________________________________
From: Customer Service
Date: Mon, Feb 14, 2011 at 10:17 PM
Subject: In-N-Out Burger®
To: castillo.jon@gmail.com


Dear Mr. Jon Castillo:

As a follow up to my previous e-mail, I would like to encourage you to order from our "not-so-secret menu." An easier way to order may be to order your delicious 4x4 and a Flying Dutchman. The Flying Dutchman is similar to our Double-Double but does not have a bun or any condiments. It only has two meat patties with two slices of cheese. This is the same suggestion I made earlier, but I thought it may be easier to order by name.

If you are interested in seeing our "not-so-secret menu", please select our "MENU" option from our website and a hyperlink for our "NOT-SO-SECRET MENU" appears near the bottom of the page, on the right-hand side.

If you are unable to access this information, please call our toll free Customer Service line at (800) 786-1000. We would be happy to provide the information.


Thank you again for contacting us and for providing us an opportunity to respond.

Sincerely,

Andrea
Customer Service
___________________________________________________
from Jon Castillo
to Customer Service
date Tue, Feb 15, 2011 at 10:15 AM
subject Re: In-N-Out Burger(R)

Thanks Andrea,

I understand you have a secret menu and I knew of the flying dutchman.

Problem is I have this thing about being scared of the Dutch every since they destroyed my world cup team. Later, I had a Dutch friend key my car for no reason at all. Then when I confronted her about it, she sent her mini-doberman pincher on me.
Anyway, the reason In N Out exists is because people want a quick, delicious meal without having to cook on their own.

Your idea of building my own burger doesnt sound too enticing. Actually, it might work. I think it's called Fuddruckers, where you build your own burger. Funny that I came to that solution all on my own through this reply.

Guess ill tell all my friends about this... so in summary: 1. In N Out is not a build a burger place and wants you to do it on your own by giving you the tools to do so. 2. America is slowly dying.

Sadly yours,
Jon
___________________________________________________
from Customer Service
to castillo.jon@gmail.com
date Tue, Feb 15, 2011 at 4:00 PM
subject Regarding your inquiry at the IN-N-OUT Burger® Web Site.

Dear Mr. Jon Castillo:

Thank you for your e-mail, and for giving us an opportunity to respond.

We respect your feelings and will share your comments with our Executive Management and Company Owners. We hope you will consider allowing us the privilege of serving you in the future.

Sincerely,

Marianne
Customer Service
___________________________________________________

from Jon Castillo
to Customer Service
date Tue, Feb 15, 2011 at 4:16 PM
subject Re: Regarding your inquiry at the IN-N-OUT Burger(R) Web Site.

Thanks, Marianne.

When you present my comments to them can you also include the following links that show how happy customers are when you make bigger than 4x4s?

http://www.badmouth.net/in-n-out-the-20x20/
or
http://la.foodblogging.com/2006/01/20/the-75x75/


I want that happiness.

Hungrily yours,
Jon
___________________________________________________
from Customer Service
to castillo.jon@gmail.com
date Tue, Feb 15, 2011 at 9:25 PM
subject Regarding your inquiry at the IN-N-OUT Burger® Web Site.

Dear Mr. Jon Castillo:

Thank you for your response. We hope you won't hesitate to contact us if we can ever be of assistance in the future.

Sincerely,

Liz
Customer Service
___________________________________________________
from Jon Castillo
to Customer Service
date Mon, Apr 4, 2011 at 6:40 PM
subject Re: Regarding your inquiry at the IN-N-OUT Burger(R) Web Site.

Hi Liz,

I finally got a chance to build my own 6x6!

I've attached pictures of my adventure.

The presentation wasn't too nice when I received the "flying dutchman," but hey, what can we expect from a burger from a ghost ship. Wait, why is it called a flying dutchman? Is it after that Ghost Ship? Maybe that explains how the "flying dutchman" was thrown into the box. I guess the spreading out of the burgers and cheese all over the container is an interpretation of a ship spread across the sea.

Do the ghost pirates haunt In-N-Out locations that are near the ocean? I hope I didn't piss off some ghost pirates by eating a flying dutchman. I saw how they harassed Jack Sparrow, those dudes were scary.

You know, I don't like to disqualify myself from a potential job, but my burger building skills were not too good. I don't think I can do it for In-N-Out... look at the picture, horrid.

Do you think you can send me a new keyboard and camera? After I built the burger my hands were quite greasy... and that was after washing them and cleaning them with bug-off. I had to take pictures to show you and then use my computer to write this.

I have about 4 people in my posse that want the ability to order a 6x6 without having to build it on their own. How many people do you think I need to gather to get it available again?

I ate the 6x6 with relative ease... wish that ease could be associated with ordering on too...

Your Animal-Style Fanatic,
Jon

___________________________________________________
from Customer Service
to castillo.jon@gmail.com
date Tue, Apr 5, 2011 at 8:45 AM
subject In-N-Out Burger®

Dear Mr. Castillo:

Thank you for your e-mail and for sharing your pictures with us.

We realize that our loyal and dedicated customers, such as yourself, have helped to make us the Company we are today and we are very sorry for any disappointment. Because we are firmly committed to maintaining the quality and presentation of the food we serve to our customers, we now have set serving sizes for our burgers, and the largest burger we will prepare is a 4x4.

Although we have no plans to change our menu, we are happy to share your comments with our management team.

Thanks again for taking the time to contact us.

Sincerely,

Heather I.
Customer Service
___________________________________________________
from Jon Castillo
to Customer Service
date Tue, Apr 5, 2011 at 9:53 AM
subject Re: In-N-Out Burger(R)

Thanks Heather,

I understand the presentation part. Like I said, when I created my own it didn't look pretty.

But why did the Flying Dutchman have the presentation that it did when I purchased it? Also, you didn't say why it's called that. Is it really named after the ghost ship?

Man, just thinking about that 6x6 I had makes me happy. I seriously should have gone double flying dutchman and made an 8x8.

How about this - can we have a secret code word I can use at the restaurants and I get to order bigger than 4x4? We can put the burger in the Animal Fries box so no one sees and get jealous.

Cheesingly Yours,
Jon

P.S. Cheese wrapper from the 4x4 was amazing
___________________________________________________
from Customer Service
to castillo.jon@gmail.com
date Tue, Apr 5, 2011 at 10:19 AM
subject Regarding your inquiry at the IN-N-OUT Burger® Web Site.

Dear Mr. Jon Castillo:

Thank you for your e-mails.

In order to thoroughly investigate and most effectively address your comments and inquires regarding our Flying Dutchman, we hope to speak with you personally. Please call us at our toll-free, Customer Service line: (800) 786-1000. We are available 7 days a week, between 8:00am - 1:00am (PST). If this is not convenient, please e-mail us back with your phone number and the best time to reach you. We will arrange to contact you then.

Thank you again for your e-mail. We hope to speak with you soon.

Sincerely,

Heather I.
Customer Service
___________________________________________________
from Jon Castillo
to Customer Service
date Wed, Apr 6, 2011 at 4:13 PM
subject Re: Regarding your inquiry at the IN-N-OUT Burger(R) Web Site.

To Whom It May Concern:

Okay - No problem, I will call. I don't understand why you can't answer via email, though.
How long will the call be? I think I have enough minutes loaded on my cell phone to discuss this...

Jon
___________________________________________________
from Customer Service
to castillo.jon@gmail.com
date Wed, Apr 6, 2011 at 6:53 PM
subject Regarding your inquiry at the IN-N-OUT Burger® Web Site.

Dear Mr. Jon Castillo:

Thank you for your response. We understand that your time is valuable and apologize for any inconvenience. However, in order to better address your questions we would appreciate speaking with you directly. Thank you again and we hope to hear from you soon.

Sincerely,

Maggie
Customer Service
___________________________________________________
from Jon Castillo
to Customer Service
date Wed, Apr 6, 2011 at 10:20 PM
subject Re: Regarding your inquiry at the IN-N-OUT Burger(R) Web Site.

Sounds great, Maggie.

Will it be okay when I call? It seems like we have a lot of people on this case. I think I was just talking to a Heather... then a Liz before that.

Will whomever answers the phone know my questions/concerns?

Do I need to enter a code or anything? A not so secret reference?

Thanks,
Jon
___________________________________________________
from Customer Service
to castillo.jon@gmail.com
date Thu, Apr 7, 2011 at 12:52 PM
subject Regarding your inquiry at the IN-N-OUT Burger® Web Site.

Hi Jon,

Thanks for your continued interest. When you call, any of our experienced representatives will be able to assist you. We look forward to hearing from you!

Thanks,

Brian
Customer Service
___________________________________________________
The call:

___________________________________________________
This was just a battle. I promise to win this war. I'll have pictures up in the future of me making a 6x6 on the ordering counter.

Don't Ever Leave Me, Tapatio Doritos

If you know me, you know I am THE snack master.

One top of that list, are nacho cheese Doritos with Tapatio all over them. And Frito-Lay has recently released both in a bag for me, no Tapatio bottle required now.

I was excited, to say the least.

______________________________________________________

Monday, March 22, 2011 9:46 PM

To Whom It May Concern:

Being taken back to an old place that contains fond memories is priceless, and when it does happen, you never forget it.

When I opened up my 99-cent bag of Tapatio-flavored Nacho Cheese Doritos I was a bit skeptical. I squirted lemon into the bag and shook it around. I waited a few seconds, then took a whiff of the result.

I was immediately taken to the park I grew up in... the palatero man selling popsicles... laughing with my cousins with chile and lemon all over our finger tips. The soccer grass stains on our clothes... the shadow boxing with our parents.

These chips took me there... whomever or whoever came up with the concept for these delights needs to get a raise. I commend you for taking this step.

I remember the flaming-hot doritos, those were amazing as well... not on the level of these new chips... but don't make the same mistake and make these disappear. Instead of dessert, I now eat these chips in bed.

You know what it's like to have crumbs in bed when you wake up? Yes, you guessed it, I get pissed that those little pieces of heaven didn't make it into my mouth.

Now, please, please! Make these chips available in a bigger bag size. The 99-cent bags do NOT do these chips justice. Keeping these chips locked up in their 99-cent state would be like keeping Jack Kerouac off the road.

Too much passion and love to be left out of people's possession.

Please make my fears disappear. As I fear these chips will disappear and that they won't be available in a bigger size.

Take me back to the park, over and over again. I want to be that kid again: with tapatio, nacho cheese doritos and lemon on my fingers. It will even force me to take my laundry back to my Mama... only she can get those chile/lemon stains off my clothes.

Sincerely,
Jon Castillo
______________________________________________________

A Message from Frito-Lay Consumer Relations - RE: Doritos, Reference #011405520A
Tuesday, March 22, 2011 12:15 PM
From: "noreply@fritolay.com"
To: castillo_jon@yahoo.com

Hi Jon,

Thank you so much for sharing such nice comments about Doritos Tapatio . It's always a pleasure to hear from our consumers, especially when you tell us how much you enjoy our snacks. Fans like you keep us energized to provide you with the highest quality, best-tasting snacks on the market.

Again, we appreciate you writing to us and hope you continue to enjoy great-tasting snacks from Frito-Lay.

Best regards,

Janet
Frito-Lay Consumer Relations
011405520A
______________________________________________________

Tuesday, March 22, 2011 10:07 PM

To Whom It May Concern:
I can understand the use of your canned statements. My company uses them too... except I find them rather rude and misleading. For instance, the support lady that uses them here sent the canned statement to something totally unrelated to the comment. This would have been fine if it was cleared up, but the email our support lady sent it from was a "no reply" similar to what you sent me. Instead, I was called and had to explain the canned statement as well as go through the issue the customer had. This is double work.

While I appreciate you responding, I think the best way to do this would respond as well as include the answers to my questions. Or at least point me in the right direction.

Oh no, see, I've done double work now and will be causing a third level. 1. Me writing again to get my questions answered. 2. Your "customer relations" team reading another one of my emails. 3. Customer relations panicking and trying to find a canned statement to respond to this inquiry.
  
Please answer my question through email, as I had to ship my phone to Mexico for my cousin to use.

Thank you,
Jon
______________________________________________________

A Message from Frito-Lay Consumer Relations - RE: Doritos, Reference #011411279A
Friday, March 25, 2011 9:15 AM
From: "noreply@fritolay.com"
To: castillo_jon@yahoo.com

Hi Jon,

Thank you for taking the time to write to us again and I truly apologize for unanswered questions in your previous e-mal. I'm sorry that Doritos Tapatio is only available in 7-5/8 oz package and we can not guarantee that the product will be sold in larger bags. The product is only available in the West and so far no plans to expand it other areas. We can not guarantee how long the product will be available. However, I'm advising our sales and marketing teams of your interest in this product.

When you take into account the tremendous variety of consumer preferences, not every product does equally well and may not be available everywhere.

Thanks again for sharing your comments with us. I hope that one of our other snacks will satisfy your taste buds and be sure to watch for our exciting new future flavor introductions.

Best regards,

Janet
Frito-Lay Consumer Relations
011411279A
______________________________________________________

Friday, March 25, 2011 8:58 PM

*Please forward to Janet 011411279A*
Thanks for getting back to me regarding the availability of these chips, including the bag size and how long they will be for sale.

It's okay that you didn't answer my question the first time. I ask my colleagues questions at least four times before I get a response.

Any way, can you define what "West" is? I went to the 7-11 near my work in Newport Beach, CA but couldn't locate them. Maybe you can send me the latest sales for all the "West" stores? That way I know what stores carry them, and how far East I can go in the West before I get scared of not having my chips.

And thank you so much for passing this information onto sales and marketing. I think you should also bring up that if pushed east it could replace the taco. I know a lot of people out east that complain about the lack of a good taco. This will easily appease that audience.

I can't emphasize this enough: please let me know how I can help push sales and marketing to keep this chip alive, and make it available in a bigger size. Please provide contact information for both and I will work with them to push this chip nationwide (and at no charge, well, maybe some tapatio doritos *smiley-face wink*).

I have a team ready to push this forward in the east as fast as possible. My father-in-law owns a screen printing business and I am ready to start pressing shirts to start the "keep the tapatio doritos alive campaign."

Along with my team, I have a recipe book we can push as well. Starting with my favorite delight: tapatio dorito breaded chicken.

Thanks again Janet, and please let me know about all this.

Stay Crunchy,
Jon

P.S. Maybe you can give me your @fritolay.com email address so I don't have to keep going to the contact section of FritoLay.com *smiley face wink with a halo above it*
______________________________________________________

Wednesday, March 30, 2011 6:38 PM

(Editor's note: at this point I hadn't received a response back, so I resent the previous message)

I am not sure if you got my last email, so I am sending this again...
[Insert contact from Friday]
______________________________________________________

A Message from Frito-Lay Consumer Relations - RE: Doritos, Reference #011419158A
Thursday, March 31, 2011 11:15 AM
From: "noreply@fritolay.com"
To: castillo_jon@yahoo.com

Hi Jon,

Thank you for writing to us. We are sorry you cannot locate the Doritos Tapatio chips in your area. This is a new item and distribution is forthcoming in some areas. Our sales numbers for all areas are confidential and only available to PepsiCo associates.

While we appreciate your interest in promoting this product, however, we're unable to accept unsolicited company assistance. We are already working with agencies that provide these types of services, and additional services are not needed at this time.

Thank you again for contacting Frito-Lay.

Best regards,

Kim
Frito-Lay Consumer Relations
011419158A
______________________________________________________

Thursday, March 31, 2011 12:35 PM

Thank you for getting back to me regarding the location of the chips and promotion of them.

Regarding the sales figures, sorry, I didn't actually mean the numbers. But rather where they were sold. Can you just give me the stores they are available at? I normally don't go out on my lunch breaks, but this will give me motivation to take my allotted lunch time to retrieve these goods.

I tried to get my promotion team to do this but it's taking a rather long time. Just think about it like this, giving me the stores that have them will promote sales! Double win!

And no problem on the promotion acceptance. *wink* I wasn't actually looking for compensation. I can be the Banksy of Tapatio Doritos promotion. We will be an underground team called the "acceptance" (in a French accent) that will be pushing the product.

We will make the McDonald's McRib enthusiasts look like amateurs.

I actually will probably film this and make a documentary on it too... probably call it "Enter into the Liquor Store" and it will probably win an Oscar unlike the Banksy documentary.

Alright, I have to go... I have a meeting with the screen printer regarding shirts for this.

But let me know about those stores when you have a chance.

Crunchly Yours,
Jon
______________________________________________________

A Message from Frito-Lay Consumer Relations - RE: Doritos, Reference #011419976A
Thursday, March 31, 2011 1:15 PM
From: "noreply@fritolay.com"
To: castillo_jon@yahoo.com

Hi Jon,

Thank you so much for sharing such nice comments about Doritos Tapatio.

Please visit our website at www.fritolay.com and click on 'Where to Buy' (at the top of the page) to find out if a store near you carries this product.

Again, we appreciate you writing to us and hope you continue to enjoy great-tasting snacks from Frito-Lay.

Best regards,

Linda
Frito-Lay Consumer Relations
011419976A
______________________________________________________

Thursday, March 31, 2011 1:36 PM

Doritos, Reference #011419976A

Thanks again - I will try the where to buy on the site. Can I export to an excel template from there?

And one more thing after that, what size of shirt does everyone wear in the offifce there? I plan to send you some shirts for the Tapatio Doritos promotion.

Keep the chip alive.

Thanks,
Jon
______________________________________________________

A Message from Frito-Lay Consumer Relations - RE: one of our products, Reference #011420420A
Thursday, March 31, 2011 3:15 PM
From: "noreply@fritolay.com"
To: castillo_jon@yahoo.com

Hi Jon,

The Frito-Lay website is the property of the marketing department, and cannot be copied. Regarding the shirts, we appreciate the thought, however, we are not allowed to accept gifts from outside sources.

We consider you a valued consumer and hope you will continue to enjoy snacks from Frito-Lay.

Best regards,

Kim
Frito-Lay Consumer Relations
011420420A
______________________________________________________

Thursday, March 31, 2011 3:54 PM

Reference #011420420A

I understand.
Don't worry, I'll send them anonymously *wink* If you can't keep them at least give them to people down with the cause *wink*

Thanks,
Jon
_____________________________________________________

A Message from Frito-Lay Consumer Relations - RE: one of our products, Reference #011420595A
Friday, April 1, 2011 7:15 AM
From: "noreply@fritolay.com"
To: castillo_jon@yahoo.com


Hi Jon,

I appreciate you wanting to send us the shirts, but please don't. It would get me in trouble as our emails are monitored.

Have a great weekend,

Kim
Frito-Lay Consumer Relations
011420595A
_____________________________________________________

This is the shirt I'm sending out on Monday to Frito-Lay, PO Box 660634, Dallas, TX 75266-0634 (I'll get one printed for you for 5.99, let me know):