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Buying a vehicle should be an enjoyable experience. More often than not that happy feeling of getting a new one or a pre owned one soon disappears after we walk into the dealership. I'm from out of town and Sears had a vehicle I was interested in. Brian sent me a narrated video of the vehicle and subsequently I bought it. Normally I do not buy vehicles online but since I've known Brian, for quite a while, I have great trust in him. He arranged everything so when I arrived I was in and out very quickly and was on my way with none of the 2 to 3 hour ordeals at other dealerships. The enjoyable experience is there knowing that Brian is there to help advise you from beginning to end, so you'll never feel you're by yourself.
Brian was the best! He was extremely patient as we tried to figure out exactly which car we wanted. 10/10. The most exceptional service!
I had a great experience at Sears! Brian was a wonderful salesman, and he helped me find the car that was right for me. Kelly was kind and easy to work with in finance, and each person that I worked with in the service department was so personal and accommodating. I came back to pick up my car the day after it was serviced, and the team remembered my name without me having to introduce myself. I was impressed!
Our Salesman Brian Podgorski was so wonderful. Very informative, knowledgeable and extremely friendly. We loved working with him. He made our experience fun and exciting. He shared our excitement of our new car and was genuinely an all around great guy. This was the smoothest experience I've ever had purchasing a vehicle, we will happily come back. Kelly in finance was also very kind, helpful and made the experience as smooth as well. You have excellent employees!
Brian was wonderful helping us out! He was always available if you had a question. Would definitely recommend going to him if you are interested in purchasing a car. Great guy!
When I say I had the best experience ever had at a dealership, believe me! From the online inquiry to walking in the front door, I felt the professionalism across the board. He had a very welcoming personality and I was impressed with the knowledge Brian displayed when asking questions about the few vehicles we were there to see. He listened to our wants and needs and actually delivered on every expectation. Throughout the process he was very attentive and communicative. Even after the purchase, Brian followed up to see if my wife and I had any concerns or issues and to see if we're still happy with our purchase. I could tell I was more than just a customer and that he actually cares about the business and the people he works with. I would recommend Brian to anyone and will definitely be back to do business again.
Really enjoyed working with Brian on buying my Mercedes, He had great knowledge of the car and food good care of us during the process. I would definitely recommend him to others.
Brain and Aaron made the lease experience terrific. They both provided great and welcoming service. Brian is an extremely reliable and knowledgeable sales representative. Thank you Sears Imported Autos!
Brian was great to work with from start to finish. He is extremely knowledge about the different vehicles. Brian is very easy to talk to and work with! Jennifer in finance was also excellent and easy to work with.
Could not be happier with our experience at Sears Auto. We had stopped by quite a few months before our purchase. I expected to be hounded like other dealerships (ie... phone calls, emails etc...) However, our salesperson Brian was terrific. He contacted us once after the initial visit by phone, and emailed to say thank you for stopping in," if you need me I'm here" When we were ready to buy, he was right there helping us decide what was a best fit for us, answered all our questions and was very patient. Thank you!
Brian is the best there is. Very friendly and helpful. I was in and out with my beautiful new car in under an hour. Great customer service from Sears Imports once again!
Brian did an excellent job retaining our business. He was knowledgeable, professional, personable, and a pleasure to work with on the leasing of our new MB.
I was helped by Brain Podgorski. What a great salesman, couldn't have asked for a better first experience! Brian is hard working, extremely personable, and great at explaining the steps of finding and buying a car. He made me feel that I was in good hands and that he, and Sears Imports, would take care of me. If your looking for a new place to shop for cars go to Sears and ask to see Brian!
Sears Imports did a great job overall. Brian was very professional and courteously answered questions throughout. The purchase day experience with the signage and ribbon on the car was a very sweet touch.
Brian had a big bow on the windshield of Jane's new E 450...Nice touch to a nice buying experience. We ordered a 2019 and switched to a 2020 and Brian kept us updated...the wait was worth it. Brian's customer service was terrific...Gary
Brian and Sears made the buying experience super easy for our buying experience and helped us secure financing without having to sit around and wait. Will definitely spread the word.
Brian was great to work with. Everything was as described. I arrived to the dealership from out of town after a long delay at the airport, Brian got me in and out quickly. Would buy from this dealership again. Thanks Brian! Brian
This was my first car purchase. Brian Podgorski was a great salesman to work with. It was quick and easy and I love my new e350!
I am totally impressed with the level of professionalism from Sears Imports and my sales expert Brian Podgorski. I am from out of town and Brain and the Sears team made the purchasing experience seamless! Thank you!
This is the best dealer to purchase the car. Since the time I stepped in, they were very attentive and provided detailed information about the car. It helped me decide on the purchase easier. No unwanted pressure from sales rep. Overall very pleased with the experience.
Over all great experience. I would recommend dealing with Brian at Sears without hesitation. The only thing I thought strange is that the vehicle (2016 preowned BMW M6) was not delivered with a full tank of gas.
After looking for months for just the right SUV, we decided to check out the Mercedes GLC300. It checked all the right boxes, but now the challenge was finding the color, features and price that met our needs. We were able to find just the right combination at Sears Imported Autos and were able to quickly set up a time with Brian to see the car, test drive, then finalize the purchase. We found Brian and the rest of the staff to be very professional, non-pretentious, upfront and responsive at every step of the process. We would definitely recommend him and the dealership to anyone looking for a car. When we are in the market again, it will be the first place we look. Thanks. We are loving our first Mercedes!
I purchased a Mercedes GLC at Sears Imported Autos three years ago from Brian Podgorski. The buying experience with Brian and the years of customer service from the service department has been so positive. The service department truly treats you like royalty! I recently decided I wanted a slightly larger vehicle, so it was no doubt I would go back to Brian to purchase the Mercedes GLE this past week. He made the trade in process so simple, and he answered all of my questions honestly and knew everything there is to know about the car. I had test drove another car (Jaguar F-Pace) from a different dealership, and the salesman could not answer half of my questions. This is why it was a no-brainer to me to stick with Sears and Brian as my salesman. He genuinely cares about his customers and their car buying experience. Not to mention he had me in and out of the dealership in record time since he knew I had other engagements. You will not be disappointed working with the Sears team- the only downside is it will ruin every other car buying experience if you decide you want anything besides a Mercedes!
Brian has been so fantastic with both of my car purchases. Made me feel welcomed the second I stepped foot and made the process super quick and simple. Thank you so much for all your help!
The entire process was very smooth and painless- from test driving to financing. The easiest and the friendlist process I have experienced. Brian was very professional and super easy to work with! I recomend him to anyone looking for a new car! Thank you Brian very much!
Brian is the best person to work with, he is so caring and an amazing person. He make you feel as if you are the only customer that he is working with. Brian answered all my calls and all of my questions, i have never felt so comfortable with any sales rep as i am with Brian. What more can i say about Brian he is the best!!!! Thank you for making my car buying process so smooth.
Right when I stepped foot in the dealership, I was greeted by kind and friendly people. I worked with Mr. Brian Podgorski on getting a deal done on a used CLA 250. He was very helpful and I would highly recommend you work with this man!
This was my first experience purchasing a vehicle from out of state. I worked with salesman Brian and he was great!! . He was thorough during the sale, inspection, detailing and the final follow ups even after the sale. Never pressured. Gave me all options. Provided photos and videos to reassure me every step of the way. The financial services at Sears were easy to deal with as well. This Mercedes was a gift for the wife and needless to say she was very happy. Dealer and Brian are highly recommended! A+
Brian was by far an amazing sales man! There are a couple scratches on the car and Brian has scheduled them to be repaired at my request. He followed up the next day after purchasing the vehicle to make sure everything was going smoothly. Great services and atmosphere. Thanks Brian!
Although I wasn't buying a Mercedes, Brian was informed and answered questions about the features of the used car that I purchased. The sale was handled efficiently, inspiring confidence.
Brian worked tirelessly to find a limited production vehicle with the specs I wanted for the price I wanted, and provided a fair value for my trade-in to make the deal work for both of us. He helped me to better understand the features and benefits of various packages which in turn helped me to refine my needs and wants. In a nutshell, he found what I wanted.
Brian did a great job with the sale of our car to the dealer and our lease of a new car! He was efficient and understood my needs!
Our experience with buying a car at Sears Imported Autos was second to none. The CPO vehicle that we bought was in great condition, and the facility was just as great. The best part though were the people. Our sales person Brian was great to interact with. He was very knowledgeable regarding the vehicle and was very patient with answering the many questions that we had. He was also great to just chat with when we had a bit of down time. The same applies to our finance person Kelly. She was not your typical dry finance person. We found her very personable and super helpful with any questions that we had. I've already decided to make Sears Imported Autos our first stop when looking to purchase our next vehicle.
We had an excellent experience working with Brian. He quickly responded to our questions and was very accommodating with our busy schedules. We appreciated the above and beyond effort given to us.
Have nothing but great things to say about my experience, the service my dad and I was spectacular. Would recommend this service to anyone I know.
Brian was fantastic, I worked with him several times over the course of a year and even though he knew I wasn't ready to purchase he put effort into finding the right fit. Buying the vehicle was easy even though there were some complications.
I didn't have a lot of time last Wednesday to get the new-to-me car and get home in time for the school bus, but Brian went out of his way to accommodate my needs so everything went quickly and smoothly. I was impressed that he had everything organized when I got there and remembered details about my purchase. Jenny in financing was also lovely and super-organized. Everything went perfectly! I love my new vehicle, too.
My wife and I were looking to replace our ML 350 with another Benz SUV. I had a few email exchanges sharing our needs and Brian, our sales consultant, responded quickly to requirements. Sears was able to give us a great selection of competitively priced vehicles to consider before our appointment. During our appointment, Brian was able to provide us an exceptional experience. Brian was an excellent listener and found solutions to fit our needs without wasting our time. I never picked up a pretentious luxury car dealership vibe, which I have encountered at other luxury car dealerships. Nor did we e receive a low brow hard selling salesman vibe, that you find at many other dealerships. I highly recommend Sears Imported and Brian for your next car purchase.
Brian took good care of us in dealing with our recent purchase. I'd recommend him to anyone thinking about buying a vehicle from Sears Imports.
Brian and David made it easy. They walked me through the options and available discounts. No haggling. I would recommend them to anyone looking for a Sprinter van.
If you want to buy the car of your dreams, I recommend going to Brian. He was so knowledgeable and genuine when working with me. 10/10 would do business again.
Had the pleasure of working with Brian, who was pleasant and helpful through the entire process. from start to finish he was positive, friendly and knowledgeable.
Brian stayed with us from start to finish and carried on through some financing challenges. Maintained a positive and professional approach in spite of those challenges and got us a great car
Been searching for a new car for months and I had the pleasure of working with Brian. Fast response to my questions within 30 minutes. That's something that is UNCOMMON these days. Thanks again, forgot to mention in previous post.
This was our second CPO Mercedes purchase from Sears. Brian did a great job of finding the perfect vehicle for us with all the options we wanted. He was very knowledgeable and helped us to understand the current options and changes since our previous purchase. He was easy to work with and very professional.
Very smooth process, excellent communications. Car was very well preped and seemed brand new. Nice extra touches: ribbon presentation, new winter mats, full gas tank.
Inquired about a Sprinter van for our business use and Brian showed me a very informative walk-around. Process was a breeze, will definitely purchase another!
From the moment I reached out to Ruth and Brian; I received nothing but the best service I have ever experienced. They made the whole process extremely easy and enjoyable. Almost all of the transaction was done via email; which made it even better. When I went in to get my new GLA, I was met by Ruth and Brian and felt like I really mattered. Also, Kelly in Finance - was super nice and very easy to work with. The whole experience was 100% top-notch and I would recommend the whole team at Sear's to anyone interested in a vehicle. And, I totally love my new GLA. Thank you again Brian and Ruth and Kelly!
The buying experience was Fantastic. The Sales Professional was professional, patience, upfront, accommodating, and knowledgeable. The Business Manager answer all of my question. Thank you Both...
Brian worked tirelessly to find my perfect GLE! He made sure the vehicle was spotless and freshly detailed before I even asked. Brian's process was a breeze, he laid out all the paperwork, reviewed specs and numbers with me so that a non-sales person could understand. Answered all my questions, and above all else, responded within minutes! That is excellent customer service that will make me a repeat client for life. Thank you for all you do!
Found a 2016 Porsche Macan S on dealer web site. Set up an appointment to look at it. Brian was prepared for our visit and professional in all of the negotiations. I asked Sears to run through a maintenance check. The front brake pads were getting thin so they replaced them. Finally, at closing there was an offer of a protection package but no hard sell when we turned it down. The whole process was straight forward and simple.
We enjoyed working with Brian. He was very knowledgable about the vehicle, took time answering all our questions and made the buying experience relatively easy. He was very accomodating to our schedule and let us take the time we needed to decide without feeling pressured. Overall it was a very stress free and professional buying experience.
Brian was very responsive as we reached out to him about a newly acquired used vehicle the dealership had posted on the internet. He was willing to accommodate our short notice request to look at the vehicle and helped us to move quickly on our buying decision. We visited the dealership thinking we would take a look at the vehicle and get some information. His knowledge about the vehicle and assistance with getting an appraisal on our trade helped us to feel comfortable making our purchase decision. Thank you for your great service Brian!
Brian was very helpful, knowledgeable, and patient during the whole process. We love the new vehicle. Dealership facilities and employees, made the whole experience great.
Was terrific working with Brian. He understood and listened to my needs and we found the perfect vehicle. I would highly recommend. Pricing was very reasonable compared to other Mercedes dealers. Financing was fast as well. Excellent experience overall. Highly recommend
I had a wonderful experience that was driven by the customer support and experience Brian created. He was extremely helpful and was very attentive to all of my questions and concerns.
Although we didn't make a deal on the car I was looking at, Brian was knowledgeable, and not the pushy type, but very helpful. I believe he was honest about what he could offer me for my trade, and had a fair price on the car I was looking at. I take a lot of the blame for being to attached to my corvette. I would most defiantly give them another try ,if I saw another car I liked.
Brian Podgorski was great! I came in to ask about a certain car. Unfortunately it was already sold. Went for another one. I test drove it. My schedule that day was tight. My trade-In appraisal took about 10-15 minutes while we discussed purchase price and financing. Was offered to fill out the credit app online there that only took 5 minutes. Then I left for a few hours to take care of usual work things, came back late afternoon. Car was ready and prepped. I signed some docs. Then a 30 minute intro to the car. Great Day!
I have been a Mercedes only for 20 years and have to say Sears imports hired the right guy this time by the name of Brian👍. My god he made my entire car purchasing experience painless, fast, efficient , and pleasurable. He went to bat for me on securing the best price of my 2018 GLE 350 4 magit in black, had all the paperwork in place, vehicle stage and all fellow workers on deck to complete the transaction. If you are needing a salesperson that truly cares about your happpiness and buying process Brian Podgorski hands down was 10 stars all the way. What a wonderful experience this was and he made it so delightful. I will be recommending both Sears and him to all my acquaintances who are looking for a new Mercedes.👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
If all you're looking for is lowest price, Sears will be competitive, but probably not the cheapest. If however you're looking for a dearlership that values and supports its clients, then I highly recommend Sears, and Brian Podgorski in particular!
Nice and easy. My salesman had excellent communication and was quick to respond. Nice people to work with. Great experience. We will be coming back.
I tend to buy cars that are not readily available in every market, so I end up going long distance when necessary to find a car that I want. I found this 560SEL at Sears and could not be happier with the purchase process. At 800 miles away they provided me with any photograph I needed [I looked through 124 pix] and Brian answered every question I asked. If he didn't know the answer, he got the answer. I flew to the dealership and everyone there was friendly and answered my remaining questions. The transaction was fast and I was on my way back to Kentucky - an 800 mile test drive. It was flawless. The car was as advertised and was as smooth as a new SEL throughout the trip. Put simply, we conducted this over three days and I could not be happier with the transaction.
Most of us have dealt with the typical salespeople at a dealership before. Brian and the Sears Imported Autos staff were completely different. Genuine, knowledgeable, and no pressure, it was quite a refreshing experience. Looking forward to working with them in the future.
Brian Podgorski and his team were awesome to work with. Brian made the entire buying process as seamless as possible. He is a great communicator and very knowledgeable of the product he is selling. Needless to say, I am now a proud owner of my first Mercedes! Reach out to Brian and tell him "Mike sent you" :-)
Brian Podgorski and the entire staff was great to work with. No pressure sales. Worked well with my Credit Union. Nice job preparing the car for me when I picked it up.
I began my journey to purchase a new car on Tuesday. Sears imports has been my family's dealership for as long as I can remember. my grandfather bought all his Mercedes there and my dad the same. I grew up loving Mercedes, I saw the 2016 C300 online and saw the price and knew I just had to have it. Brian was my dads salesperson so naturally I asked him for Brians number and got the ball rolling I told him what car I was interested in and he happily assisted me in purchasing the car. It took Brian and I one day to get everything done and keys in my hand. I came in on Thursday and Brian happily and enthusiastically told me about what I would love about the car. Brian is a professional, honest and efficient salesperson. He is great at his job and cares about his customer first and foremost. I will never buy another car without Brian and his expertise. I appreciate Brian and his commitment to providing the best service in the Auto industry there is. Thank you again Brian for all you've done.
I saw a Honda Accord for sale online at Sears Imports so I inquired. Brian Podgorski contacted me the same day and was very helpful in all aspects of the buying process. He was nice enough to work around my schedule and bring the car to me for the test drive. Great experience overall and I would definitely recommend him to others. Thanks again Brian!
Stopped in to look at another manufacturers car. Luckily I worked with Brian Podgorski. He gladly showed me that car and others. His knowledge and experience radiate!!! I didn't think I was going to buy a Mercedes but after driving a few different models I was convinced. The Best Or Nothing!
Brian was my sales person. When I arrived he had done his research and presented the exact car I was looking for. Throughout my experience Brian and everyone else at the dealership had but one thing on their minds ... how can we help you, how can we make your experience even better. I would highly recommend Brian to anyone looking to buy a Mercedes. A special thanks to Matt for showing me the ins and outs.
For the first time in my adult life, I wanted a vehicle that I felt good in---rather than the latest stripped-down model that got me from point a to point b. I've had my eye on the GLK 350 for years now--always saddened a bit that they were no long made (and not totally loving the model that replaced them). Knowing that this would likely be my last chance to scoop one up with some original factory warranty, I reached out to Sears. The vehicle I had my eye on was gone already--but another comparable one was sent my way by Brian Podgorski. He offered to make a trip in on his day off to meet with me, and walked me through all of my questions (of which there were many). If he didn't know the answer, he found it for me quickly. He was even able to help me navigate through turning in my leased car (which still had a number of months left on the lease). The rest of the staff was helpful and kind, and though I felt a bit ill signing my life away to a car payment (just kidding....kind of), I know I'm in a wonderful vehicle. I look forward to working with the staff at Sears in the future, and would highly recommend Brian!
Sears auto has very competitive pricing and the vehicle quality has been great(this is our second vehicle from them). They also have a very streamlined and professional purchase process.
We were treated well by Brian Podgorski in the way of being available in our schedule and his knowledge of the auto industry. We were treated like royalty the day we picked up the vehicle. Red carpet treatment!
This is a nice dealership with friendly staff. Car buying was a little slow but that could be because they detailed the car that day. The detail work was just ok but nice they got it done. Brian answered my questions and was very professional.
Last weekend I drove my 20 year old Toyota onto the Sears Imported Autos lot - let's just say it was time for a new car. Having done research online in advance, I knew that I wanted to test drive one of the certified used GLK350's. The receptionist connected me with Brian Podgorski. Mr. Podgorski was approachable, friendly, and knowledgeable. I haven't had the best experiences with car salespeople in the past, so Brian was fighting a bit of an uphill battle at first - but his honesty won me over. After test driving two different vehicles, we settled on a fair price and I made my purchase. Best vehicle I've driven in my life. Already looking forward to my next purchase at Sears.
This is may first Mercedes vehicle purchase which was prompted by the wonderful recommendations the dealership received from my brother and sister who each own Mercedes.
Brian was so wonderful to work with! As soon as I made an inquiry online, he responded to set up a test drive. He was very knowledgeable, and the test drive was so fun! Every part of the buying process went smoothly and Brian was very attentive and communicative. We will definitely visit him again for our next purchase.
I have never had such a pleasant car buying experience. Ever. I have been very pleased with all my interactions with this dealership from Brian's first response to my initial web inquiry, his follow up call to check on me and recently his very prompt response to my e-mail regarding the car I eventually purchased. The delivery experience amazing. It felt more like a new car delivery even though I was buying a used car. Jennifer did a great job handling the paperwork and explaining the warranties and extras without applying the kind of high pressure tactics I've experienced else where. She deserves more kudos for getting me the promotional financing rate which beat the rate I had from my lender. Max did a great job helping me learn about my car and I appreciate that he and Brian invited me back again for a refresher. That's nice because it was all so overwhelming.
We had an excellent experience at Sears imported Autos when purchasing our new Mercedes GLE350. Brian Podgorski our sales representative went out of his was to help find a vehicle that met our needs. Once we made our decision to purchase the car everyone was very attentive and made sure the vehicle was ready for delivery. We are very happy with the service we received from Brian and the support staff.
Everyone is great to work with and really makes doing business with them straightforward and simple. They provide a way to handle the process in whatever way is needed (on-line, in person, over the phone). Top notch service.
Brian P was absolutely willing to work to get this car deal done painlessly, efficiently, and perfectly. If Brian responds to your email, you are lucky!
Sears imported autos has a great selection of cars and Brian is super nice and helpful with the whole car buying process. Highly recommend him to anyone that needs help finding the right car!
The process was so easy. From finding the cars I'm interested in online, to scheduling a test drive, to driving the car off of the lot. Everything was 5 star service from Sears and my sales representative Brian and everyone I encountered along the way. I will definitely be a repeat customer in the future.
Brian was great to work with. He was prompt and courteous, always making sure I was taken care of. The process was low stress and relatively easy. I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking a new car.
I can't say enough great things about Brian, Jen and the staff at Sears Auto. They made our car buying experience truly enjoyable. We NEVER felt pressured or hurried to make a decision. I not only recommend Brian and Sears Auto.......I will go out of my way to send friends and colleagues there. Thanks again Brian and Jen for making our experience enjoyable and Brian for your service to our country. Darin and Ivy
Purchasing a vehicle can be a painful experience, but Brian and his team have mastered the art of making it enjoyable and memorable. Brian knows his Mercedes "stuff" from A to Z and he answered all of our questions and chose the perfect vehicle for us. Jennifer explained our warranty options and ran us through the paperwork in a matter of minutes and turned us over to Angela. Angela knows everything there is to know about operating a Mercedes ... and I mean everything! She even connected our phone up for us , so we can enjoy hands-free communications. You need more stars to do justice to the folks at Sears Imported Autos.
Brian and literally ALL the staff at Sears Imported Autos were professional, focused and friendly. The experience of buying Mercedes Products has always been a bit intimidating at times, but this time it was special.! My sincere thanks to Brian and all of those whom I had the pleasure of meeting. It was a "Great Experience" and I would recommend Brian and Sears to anyone and at any time.
This is the second car that I've purchased from Sears and the second time working with Brian Podgorski. Brian goes the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction and I couldn't ask for anything more. Thanks Brian!
Brian is great. He called I told him what i wanted over the phone and everything was ready to go when I arrived. The car and the credit approval. All I had to do was drive and sign. The full experience was under an hour. If you want great service, great deals, and a nice car please go see Brian.
Thank you Brian. I felt treated very special. Sears, the best customer service in Mn??I had been looking for a certain used model Mercedes for a couple yrs. I was looking at Sears website and was elated when the vehicle popped up. I was contacted immediately by Brian. Within 3 hrs. of going to see the vehicle, I was the proud owner. I had done business with Sears in the 80's and in the 2000's. The customer service, from sales, finance, service, parts and office staff, Sears has never wavered. I've dealt with many dealers over the past 35 yrs. None compare to Sears. Mr. Sears, you left a legacy of kindness, integrity and honesty. ??
This is our second MB purchase in as many months with a total of three now ranging from an SLK250, to an E350, to our latest, a GLS450. All high quality automobiles, from a reputable dealer, and awesome staff. Salesman Brian Podgorski is to be commended for his high level of service to ensure customer satisfaction. Great job Sears Imported Autos!
I was purchasing from out of state so there was much correspondence via email, voicemail, and text messages. Brian was always quick to respond and eager to answer any questions or concerns that I had. He helped me get the exact vehicle that I wanted, and I could not be any happier with my new GLC!
I just bought my 4th M-B from Sears and continue to be extremely pleased with everyone there. Manager Kent Martinka and salesperson Brian Podgorski both exceeded my expectations - which is saying something since my past excellent experiences with Sears has set my expectations high. Kelly made it a very smooth transaction handling all the paperwork for my trade in and my purchase.
Bryan messaged me back on Facebook marketplace almost immediately. He was very polite and knowledgeable on the truck. We were able to negotiate a fair price for the vehicle without any issues. Great guy to work with and I highly recommend him in the future. The waiting room was stocked with drinks, snacks, and reading material. Anytime Bryan had to step away to grab the keys for the vehicle or speak with management during negotiations another employee asked us if we were being helped.
I had a great experience with Brian from Sears Imports. Being out of state Brian made sure that I felt comfortable and was genuinely honest throughout the process. He even went as far as picking me up from the Bus station and taking me to the dealership. Brian made me feel comfortable and answered any questions I had. I highly recommend doing business with him and I plan on going through him for any purchases in the future!
Brian did an excellent job throughout the buying process. He was friendly, knowledgeable, and made the entire experience seamless. I was in and out in under an hour. I would highly recommend Sears Imports.
Having purchased a MB here previously, we knew the quality of the product, the caliber of the dealership, and its employees. Brian Podgorski assisted us in finding the right E350 sedan to meet our needs. Thanks to everyone at Sears Imports!
Brian was great to deal with. I didnt want just the standard car and and Brian patiently listed to what I wanted and took the time and energy to not only walk me through the different options but was able to get me the exact car I was looking for.
Brian was very easy to talk to and answered all my questions. Very friendly and personable. He is very knowledgeable and patiently answered my questions comparing each vehicle so I could make an educated decision.
Brian was laid back and knowledgeable. The experience was painless. The selection of low mileage late model Mercedes was surprising. Overall I would do it again.
Honest, caring approach. I sell yachts for a living. This was fun. I would hire Brian in a moment. He made it easy and enjoyable.
Brian Podgorski is no nonsense and to the point kind of sales person. And, that is exactly the type of person we needed. We didn't want any of the typical sales-type of jargon that wastes so much time in this type of transaction. He moved us along without any shenanigans and answered all our questions to the point and resolutely. This guy knows cars and will be recommended highly. I also had an exceptional experience w/Bill Blume as I stopped in the next day for a few questions, battery low on the keys and a windshield issue I hadn't noticed until I was driving it home. He answered by questions and was very professional. Very impressed.
I've always driven Mercedes but never went to a dealer because I had a few bad thoughts about buying from a dealership. I stopped by to ask a couple questions after going far north to look at a Mercedes SUV that I found on craigslist. I was frustrated and decided to get off the highway, knowing I couldn't afford a SUV off the lot. Boy was I wrong. I meet Brian, he instantly made me feel comfortable. Brian explained everything to me, letting me know that my thoughts for years was wrong about dealerships. Brian spent about 2 hours with me. By the time I left there this man had me laughing and feeling like I could someday have a new one off the lot. Brian worked so hard with me and kelp it so real with me that today I feel like I have a new friend. I loved his uplifting sprit and how he worked so hard for me. Thanks Mercedes and Brian for the best service ever. Dorsey H. JR I almost forgot to tell you that I ended up driving away that same day in my new SUV and thanks to Brian I still had a couple thousand dollars in my pocket. Bottom line-forget what you thought about dealerships. If you're looking for a nice ride and not get ripped off, go see Brian Podgorski at Sears Imported Autos. I'm so glad I did. Everyone I had contact with made me feel welcome even though I was eating up all their snacks. Lol
Brian over at Sears Imported Autos was my go to guy for the purchase of my first Mercedes-Benz. He was great and put up with all my questions and requests. The car buying experience itself went well also with minimal wait and I felt a very straightforward process. I definitely recommend purchasing here.
This was our first purchase from Sears Imported Autos, but we will certainly be back! The buying experience was exceptional, especially the relaxed, helpful, accommodating attitude of our salesman Brian.
We visited this dealership with the intention of purchasing a vehicle we found online. However, when we arrived, the vehicle had already been purchased, much to our dismay. We did not leave empty-handed, though! We received personal time and attention from Brian, who assisted us in finding another alternative to meet our needs that has actually surpassed our expectations! All our future vehicle purchases will be from here.
Car buying is not my most favorite thing to do, I normally go look on Sundays so I don't have to deal with sales people. But on this Saturday my family and I had a little time to spare so we went looking knowing that we would have to deal with sales people. I drove around the lot looking for a couple vehicles I had seen online. I didn't see one in particular so I called the dealership. I was lucky to get Brian Podgorski on the line. He was very knowledgeable about the product and not only that but he was very knowledgeable about the vehicles he had on the lot!! His knowledge and his no pressure sales style worked well for us. I would encourage you to stop in and see Brian if you are heading in to Sears Imports. Thanks Brian, great job.
I am a Chicago-area resident so dealt with the dealership through Brian Podgorski primarily via email. Brian was responsive and anxious to be helpful. He picked me up at the airport for transport to the dealership - a much appreciated gesture. The actual transaction was easy and quick. My car was waiting and Angela Walberg was very knowledgeable about the various important aspects of the car's operation. Of course, I'll need to find time to scan the 367 page operator's manual, but she got me up to speed so that I could be on my way. Overall a very good experience and I would happily recommend Sears, Brian and Angela to prospective buyers.
WOW- I cannot say enough good things about my experience with Sears. I chose to drive 230 miles from Fargo because the dealership there is so difficult to work with and I had heard great things about Sears. I'm so glad I did! I emailed the sales manager Aaron Thursday night and thanks to the quick response time from him and Brian in sales, I was able to pick up my vehicle Saturday morning. Brian was awesome to work with. He understands the importance of customer service and goes above and beyond to make sure you feel super special. Jen in finance made sure the paperwork went quick and smoothly and Angela was super helpful and patient showing me all the bells and whistles on my vehicle. From personally picking me up at the car rental place to the big red bow on my vehicle this place is top notch! I will be recommending Sears Auto and Brian specifically to all my Fargo friends who want a pleasant car experience for once!
I hadn't ever bought a car through a dealership before and when I found a car I wanted I called and filled out the financing forms online. Brian helped with any questions and concerns I had and within an hour I was ready to go. The next day I went to sears and went through everything with Brian and he was friendly and helpful throughout the entire process. Within 45 mins I was driving away in a new car. It was an effortless process and the service was great I will definitely be a return customer.
Having never purchased a Mercedes- Benz before I had plenty of questions and Brian was more than happy to answer my questions an make sure I was completely comfortable with my purchase. Thanks Brian and Kelly for the first class treatment!!
Brain from the start was very professional and has a great personality..He has very good product knowledge and answered all my questions while on a test drive..I would recommend Brian for your next new or used vehicle purchase...
Brian was helpful in regards to setting up times to view cars as well as being in contact about the status with vehicles. Brian was also accommodating to request and not pushy as a salesman to get a quick sell. He was personable and friendly but also professional in his duties.
Sears had exactly the car I wanted for a good price, and my Sales Associate Brian allowed me to have an easy, expedited, experience that got me in-and-out in no time. Brian was knowledgeable and friendly. I would recommend your dealership and Brian Podgorski without hesitation!
Brian Podgorski is a great sales representative. The location is clean neat and professional. Highly recommend. The cars are in good shape and well maintained.
I had the pleasure of working with Brian what a great guy !!! Excellent customer service, professional,kind ,honest and very organized . I have never had such a great experience while purchasing a car. This is now my home and i will be referring all my friends and family to Brian. Thanks for your exceptional service Brian !! Millie H.
Brian has been great to deal with as I look for a new vehicle. Very knowledgeable, willing to work late to answer customer questions and keeps the level of bs (that is so common in the car sales industry) down to a minimum! These attributes make for a pleasant experience. Thanks, Brian!
I had a 2002 CLK55 AMG a while ago and was treated with great respect by the service department even though I didn't buy it there and it was an older car. Currently Brian Podgorski is working to locate a car for us. He is the definition of a person who is knowledgeable, loves his work and a professional in every way.
Brian was great and easy to work with. Always answered our questions as we waited for our new car to arrive. Very happy with our new car
Went out of their way to accommodate us. Even picked us up at the airport when we flew in from Arizona to pick up the vehicle we had purchased. Highly recommend.
My salesperson Brian was professional/friendly, a good listener, timely responded, and what he did not know he timely found answers to my questions/concerns. He had a nice personal touch. Upon having an issue come up after getting the vehicle home (150 miles away) Kent (Sales Manager) was willing to offer an agreeable resolution in a timely manner without us needing to drive the vehicle back to the dealership. This experience told me this is a classy place that does things right!
I actually enjoyed my experience here. I first was looking at new but then ended up having to review used options. The salesmen, Brian Podgorski, was extremely patient and helpful. He earned my trust when I asked for recommendations and he offered a car well below my stated budget. I ended up buying elsewhere but will go back here when I'm looking again.
This is the second time we got a Mercedes Benz from Sears Imports. The dealership had the perfect car for us every time. Brian Pordgoski has a great knowledge of the vehicles and made great recommendations. He and his team presented a perfect vehicle in terms of great features and value. My wife wasn't with me but she falls in love with our new car! Thanks Brian and Sears Imports! We'll definitely come back for our third Mercedes.
Very pleased with my decision to work with Brian for my new vehicle. Extremely happy with the level of service, attention to detail, respect for my needs and budget, and quick application and approval process.
Sears went out of their way to get me the vehicle I wanted and delivered it in the time I wanted. Brian was highly committed to helping me accomplish my goal and finding and delivering the car.
After going to Feldmann, this was a 180 degree difference! Brian showed me all the options available, explained in detail the trims, etc. It was his ability to find exactly what I wanted that made it easy to purchase a car. I had been looking for a vehicle for SIX months! Brian found me a car in two days! My only complaint is we made an appointment to do the paperwork but it was not made clear the car would not be available. I had to return a second time that day but Brian worked hard to get this done!!
Met with Brian on a Smart Fortwo. He was very knowledgeable on all things Smart, I did not feel pressured at all through the process. When it came to purchase day, the place was packed and I did have to wait a bit, but their lounge was a perfect place to wait. Overall a great expierence.
Brian did an excellent job of detailing the assets of the '14 X-1 without overselling it or trying to pressure us. As it turned out, all it took were two weeks of assaying various vehicle options for us to revisit the X-1 that Brian had test driven with us very early on in our car search. He gave reasoned "pros" without running down the competition and we decided that he was also repping the best vehicle for us. It was a pleasure dealing with him.
We worked with Brian in sales who was very helpful. And we were very impressed with their quick and easy buying process! The dealerships attention to detail was like no other! Thanks again!!
Thankful to have had Brian as my salesman. Very timely with follow through and know if/when I need help in the future he'll be there to guide my way. - Nicolette
Today I purchased a 2014 Mercedes CLA250 from Brian Podgorski at Sears Imported Autos. Brian was so helpful and easy to work with. The entire experience from the time I walked in until the time I left was excellent. Brian was very professional, answered my questions, was patient with me as I was making my decision, etc. I highly recommend Brian. Thank you!
I was a first timer for buying a car and Brian was more than helpful. He really listened to what I wanted and felt comfortable driving. It took a couple days and a few test drives for me to make a decision. He was never pushy and fun to work with. I love my Mercedes and it was a great experience!
It was enjoyable throughout. Every specific detail I wanted was met. Brian was gentle with me and approachable. Kept me udated frequently as the purchase was going on
He was terrific. We will be back to purchase our next vehicle from Brian. Thanks for everything. This is our sixth Mercedes and we loved the experience.
We worked with Brian, he was the best sales person to work with. He was patient and understanding of our needs, has taken the time to find us what we want. I would recommend him to anyone.
Very good experience. Sales person easy to deal with and very helpful throughout entire process. Would recommend Sear's to anyone looking for a new or used vehicle.
It was a great experience buying the car from Sears Imports. Our salesman, Brain Podgorski was fantastic. The car we bought was found in New York. In no time at all we were driving it. The people at Sears went out of their way to find us the car we wanted.
Not only was my sales professional excellent to work with during the purchasing of my new car, he went above and beyond after the purchase to ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction. Even though I met Brian only once, he makes you feel like you have been friends for years. I will definitely recommend his services!
I couldn't be happier with my salesman Brian Podgorski and the overall experience with Sears! Brian is so nice and helpful! I felt like I knew him for years! He was very informative and he truly cares about what he does and it shows!!! Sears is a class act! Everyone I have met there and dealt with so far have been great! I was truly pleased when the GM came and personally congratulated me on my purchase and thanked me for my business. I am more than happy with my car, and will definitely be returning to Sears in the future. Thank you Sears for being a great dealership!!!
Found the car we were looking for. Brian was awesome in meeting our needs in getting the deal right. Great experience would definitely shop here again. Kelly was also awesome to work with in finance.
I was very pleased dealing with Brian Podgorski my salesman. From the very first phone conversation right to the final handshake. He was very personable, knowledgeable, and eager to answer any questions I needed answered. Very glad to have met, and had him as my sales professional. Will definitely check with them for any future needs
Brian Podgorski was patient and informative with my purchase. Staff was friendly, polite and courteous. If you're in the market for a MB that is CPO, I'd recommend that you visit Sears Imports for a purchase.
I've purchased a lot of cars in my life and many other high ticket items like boats and homes. Brian Podgorski provided by FAR the best buying experience I've ever had. Follow up, attention to detail, and enthusiasm 2nd to none! This guy is a truly gifted sales person. I'll be back in 36 months to buy my next C class from Brian!
Brian podgorski assisted me in buying a new SUV after an accident. Service was fun and engaging, while quick and prompt. Kelly at financing made signing the papers a breeze. Vehicle was prepped and parked out front by the time I was done. Highly recommended Brian!
John was a wonderful good experience sales I was really enjoyed working with him what a great person I met and paying from him a vehicle
John was fantastic! Informative, not too pushy, helpful, and patient. In particular, he was really wonderful with my teenage son, who was most enthusiastic and eager to be a MB owner. It was a pleasant buying experience overall because John was great to work with.


text:
With one juicy mouthful of crispy, juicy, subtly spiced chicken, I forget all about my mental daily calorie tab. Succulent and crunchy at the same time fried chicken is a winning summer favorite. Making the chicken creates a mess, but it is well worth it to elicit smiles on my boy's faces. [click to continue…]
{ 4 comments }

subset: commoncrawl


text:
|White Plains, N.Y.
|High School:
|Valhalla High School
|House Affiliation:
Sophomore (2011-12)
Finished eighth in the NCAA championships and tabbed second team All-American honors ... Went 9-6 at the 2012 Ivy League championships, good for sixth place … Named second team All Ivy … Was Harvard's best entrant in the foil competition at the NCAA Northeast Regional's placing fifth.
Freshman (2010-11):
Earned 10 victories and finished 14th at the NCAA Fencing Championship ... Finished eighth at the Penn State Garret Open in his first collegiate competition (Nov. 14) ... Went 9-6 and finished in a tie for eighth overall at the Ivy League Championship (Feb. 12-13) ... Placed 13th at the Northeast Regionals (March 13).
Before Harvard:
Was the runner-up at the 2009 Junior National Championships in 2009 … Took third in the Senior Team National Championship in 2009 … Finished second at the 2008 Senior Team National Championships … Won the sabre at the 2009 Division II National Championships and was crowned the North Atlantic Sectional Champion in 2009 … Member of the National Honor Society … National Merit Scholarship Finalist … Brother, Doug, competed on the Harvard track and field team and graduated in 1999.


text:
You may save up to 15 listings. Please note that this listing will be over-writing your oldest saved listing.
The 1999 Jeep Wrangler! Comfortable and safe in any road condition! Jeep infused the interior with top shelf amenities, such as: a tachometer, skid plates, and more. It features a standard transmission, 4-wheel drive, and a 4 liter 6 cylinder engine. Our knowledgeable sales staff is available to answer any questions that you might have. They'll work with you to find the right vehicle at a price you can afford. Stop by our dealership or give us a call for more information.
Price may exclude tax, title, tags, governmental fees, any emissions testing charges and any finance charges (if applicable). Unless otherwise stated separately in the vehicle details, price does not include documentation, processing, administrative, closing or similar fees. Current mileage may vary due to test drives and vehicle relocation.


text:
Would KMA benefit from a bio' of the legendary strategist?
Sadly, I do not have the time or energy to undertake my 'grand project' for KMA/SOSZ at the moment, it is however a hiatus; I'm not in the habit of shirking a challenge.
In the meantime, I shall attempt to produce a bio' of Sun Wu for the benefits of KMA users.


text:
Fully vector – Easy to edit text (link to free fonts included in help file) – Fonts: Arial (Windows 7) All text can change – EPS files, Ai files
Note: The 3D wall signs are for preview only should you need any further assistance, don't hesitate to contact me. Please take a moment to rate this item (: Please rate the file on GraphicRiver, if you like it. Thanks u so much


text:
SIRTE, Libya, Oct. 20 (UPI) -- U.S. President Obama praised the Libyan people for rising up against the regime of Moammar Gadhafi after he received word the fallen leader was killed Thursday.
"Today we can definitely say the Gadhafi regime has come to an end," Obama said in a statement from the Rose Garden.
He said the National Transitional Council government's announcement of Gadhafi's death "marks the end of a long and painful chapter" in the country.
The council's military chief, Abdul Hakim Belhaj, confirmed Gadhafi died of a gunshot wound to his head in his hometown of Sirte, the Tripoli Post reported. His body was transferred to a hospital in Misurata for medics to confirm the body's identity.
Gadhafi was alive and unharmed when he was captured after National Transitional Council troops took over Sirte Thursday, interim Prime Minister Mahmoud Jibril said. He was wounded in his right arm during a gun battle that broke out as NTC troops tried to put him into a vehicle -- and during further shooting as the vehicle drove off, he was hit in the head.
Gadhafi died before the vehicle could reach a hospital in Misrata, Jibril said.
After more than 40 years of a tyrannical, brutal rule, "the Libyan people rose up and demanded their rights," Obama said.
"This is a momentous day in the history of Libya," Obama said. "The dark shadow … has been lifted."
"We have been waiting for this moment for a long time. Moammar Gadhafi has been killed," Jibril said.
Pan-Arab television station al-Jazeera aired cellphone video of a bloodied, shirtless man who appeared to be Gadhafi lying on the ground. A photograph shown by al-Jazeera also showed an open-eyed seemingly lifeless body of a man identified as Gadhafi.
The NTC also reported Gadhafi's son, Saif Gadhafi, was killed, but provided no details, CNN said.
Al-Arabiya showed image it said was another Gadhafi son, Mutassim Gadhafi, who reportedly died in the fighting involving his father.
Gadhafi's son Saif and Defense Minister Aboubakre Younis Jabr were killed by rebels near Sirte, the Tripoli Post reported Thursday. Saif al-Islam, Gadhafi's second son, was wounded in the leg by rebels and transferred to a hospital in Misurata, where he died soon after, the Post said.
National Transitional Council officials said Jabr was killed at the time of Gadhafi's capture.
Three other sons have reportedly fled Libya -- Saadi to Niger and Muhammad and Hannibal to Algeria, along with Gadhafi's second wife, Safiya, the Post said.
There were unconfirmed reports that Gadhafi was wounded when NATO warplanes hit a convoy that included the former despot, The New York Times said.
In a statement issued after the attack, NATO officials said, "At approximately 08.30 local time today, NATO aircraft struck two pro-Gadhafi forces military vehicles which were part of a larger group maneuvering in the vicinity of Sirte."
A NATO spokesman told the Financial Times the military alliance was looking into reports that Gadhafi was part of the convoy.
"We cannot confirm or deny it," the spokesman said.
Ali Aujali, the NTC ambassador to the United States, told CNN he wasn't interested in how Gadhafi was killed, despite the murkiness surrounding the details.
"For me, it is better for him to be killed than captured alive," Aujali said.
News of the former strongman's death came as the NTC claimed Gadhafi's hometown of Sirte had fallen. Car horns tooted and guns fired in celebration in Tripoli and Benghazi, where the rebellion against Gadhafi began in February, as residents rushed into the streets to celebrate, The New York Times reported.
"I cannot express the depth of my happiness," one man told CNN in Tripoli at Martyrs' Square, which once was Green Square, the site of many of Gadhafi's fiery speeches during his four decades of iron-fisted, often cruel, rule. "In the end, the devil is gone."
At U.N. headquarters in New York, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon spoke of the reports of Gadhafi's death, saying scenes of celebrations and grief would be played out over the next few days.
"Yet let us recognize immediately that this is only the end of the beginning," Ban said. "The road ahead for Libya and its people will be difficult and full of challenges."
When Gadhafi brutalized Libyans after they began protesting his regime earlier this year, the United States, its allies and Arab nations "stopped Gadhafi's forces in their tracks," Obama said.
Obama praised the work of the NATO-led operation that, among other things, closed Libyan airspace and targeted military sites.
Speaking at a town hall meeting in Plymouth, N.H., Vice President Joe Biden said the NATO coalition "got it right. Gadhafi is gone -- one way or another, he is gone."
In this case, America spent $2 billion total and didn't lose a single life, Biden said.
Obama urged Libya's interim government to build an "inclusive and tolerant" new government which would "stand as an ultimate rebuke" to Gadhafi.
He also urged Libyans to work with the international community to secure dangerous materials and respect the rights of all Libyans.
Obama reassured the Libyan people the United States and its allies would help them on their "long and winding road" to democracy.
"You have won your revolution," he said.


text: Vincent Bailly studied at the School for Decorative Arts of Strasbourgh from 1985. He began his professional career illustrating for publishing houses like Nathan, Coprur and Le Crédit Mutuel. His first comic album was the first episode of the 'Coeur de Sang' series, that appeared at Delcourt. He took on a collaboration with Edifa Jeunesse publishers in 1997, for which he did the monthly comic 'Qu'as-tu vu, Lulu?' in the juvenile Maxilien magazine. He also worked for Terres Lointaines magazine. He started the 'Angus Powderhill' series along with writer Luc Brunschwig in 2001.


text:
Designers from around the world are submitting creative designs for kim61 in logo design - custom.
CRozBoards is a new retail concern. Also an Ecommerce website and a boarders community blog for Dirtsurfing, Skateboarding, and Mt. Boarding. We Sell: Boards, gear and accessories as well as provide the latest information for upcoming events, people and places of interest pertaining to these sports.
Open for Ideas (but prefer word statements instead of phrases)
Desired Color Scheme:
Max. 2 Colors. Used Metal (single or combinations) steel, copper (rust), bronze, pewter, silver, gold, platinum - Solid Colors: greys, blacks, slate/dark blues
Desired Style:
Edge, semi-vector (less is more), unusual, masculine, artistic and professional.
Accepted File Formats:
ai, eps, jpeg, psd or pdf
The Logo you design will be used for a variety of commercial uses: Web, Pring, Branding, etc. This logo must look great on a website, apparel, gear and print media (Ads, Stickers, Posters...).
Payment: Total Contest: 350.00. Breakdown: Logo & Corp Pkg. 300.00 and Original Sticker: 50.00. Payable. Half upon completion of contest and half upon our receipt of CD containing all files listed for this contest and a signed transfer statement of all intellectual property ownership rights (We will provide you the form via email).
Logo: CRozBoards: Original. must be legitimate for commercial use.
Style: Gravity Sports: Edgy, Semi-Vector, etc
but NOT trendy.
Corp Pkg: Letterhead, Envelope, Business Card (Front & Back) and Complimentary Notecard.
Original Sticker: Approximate dimensions: 2x4 in. - use the shape that complements your logo design.
Files: Must be Editable for Biz Card, Letterhead and Complimentary Notecard updates.
Styles & Inspiration: See example fonts: Death Rattle & Skeksis for inspiration purposes only - samples of what interests us.
***NOTE*** To view a similiar type business, click on the following link: <a href=\"http://xtreme-xperience.com/msgboard/viewtopic.php?t=45\">http://xtreme-xperience.com/msgboard/viewtopic.php?t=45
Fonts: Clear and Readable in small sizes.
This contest was originally listed in multiple categories:
- Logo Design
- Stationery Design
Find out how a design contest works or learn more about our logo design services.


text:
buldag necesitaba un nuevo diseño de papelería y lanzó un concurso de diseño en 99designs.
Un ganador ha sido elegido entre 30 diseños de 7 diseñadores freelance.
Looking for a a complete stationary package for a cool consumer electronic brand, extensively branded etc.
The style should convey a young, exciting and in-the-moment feel if possible.
Revolutionizing Portable Entertainment
Desired Color Scheme:
open for suggestion. - should be somewhat consistent with our site design colors
Desired Style:
Web 2.0 style, reflective, gradient overlays, etc.
Accepted File Formats:
Layered Photoshop, EPS, PDF and original source. Please include fonts. MSWord Template for letterhead
Name of the company is "Mvix(USA), Inc.".
Logo and other writing elements, use: MvixUSA - (see capitalization)
The Phrase is "Revolutionizing Portable Entertainment", you need to incorporate that into the design. The style should convey a young, exciting and in-the-moment feel if possible.
Check out the site: http://www.mvixusa.com (for ideas about our product)
We are currently redesigning our site to a web2.0 appeal
Primarily colors of use: FLOCK BLUE (75%), light GREEN (20%), RSS ORANGE (5%). The light green color is something like this: http://www.xpanity.com/
Download current logos here:
We are also interested in making small modifications to our logo.. in the Web2.0 style... the color may change to Flock blue and black (maybe)... but the rounded corners and design style remains same. Any ideas? Will throw in a bonus of $100 for small creative changes to our logo. (Some logo examples, we like: http://farm1.static.flickr.com/60/1…801_o.jpg)
I'd like a Web 2.0 style stationary. Round, Reflective, shades.
The stationary package will have the following:
1) Letterhead
2) Envelops - all 3 standard sizes
3) Business Card Template
Envelop Sizes:
++ Catalog Envelop: 9" x 12"
++ #10 Regular (4 1/8" x 9 1/2")
++ A-8 5.5" x 8.125"
The letterhead and business cards should both follow standard sizing. We are however expecting vectors so that we can easily reshape as required.
Use both the header and footer areas on the letterhead/envelops.
I personally like Vertically-placed text/logos on edges... its not a requirement... but merely an idea.
should have our logo, address, URL, phone and fax nos.
Addr: 3917 Old Lee Hwy, Suite 11-B, FAIRFAX VA 22030 (USA)
Also, will need a MSWord template for our letterhead - for using it digitally.
Full copyright ownership of the designs must be transferred to Mvix(USA), Inc. if you win this contest. Winning designer is likely to be recruited for our ongoing marketing collateral work.


text:
This was the big addition to the room. The Malm dresser from IKEA.
We went shopping in Aaron's art studio to get it, which required a lot of rearranging in there for him, but it was his idea so he didn't mind.
I won't lie--not a huge fan of this piece of furniture.
I don't mind how it looks--clean lines and all that.
But the quality is sadly lacking.
It's IKEA and the truth is, $100 furniture just doesn't have the smooth gliding drawers, the heft, the drawer bottoms NOT made our of cardboard, that we all appreciate in well made furniture.
But we're making the most of what we've got and this is it.
Besides, it's big, it fits the space, has 2 drawers for each kid and most importantly, it got the clothes out of the closet and allowed me to re-organize to my crazy pregnant heart's content.
It also allowed for some redecorating.
I'll give you a tour.
First, the dresser top.
Being that the room is for boys and girls, I have gone with a woodsy, foresty motif in here.
We all love being outdoors and trees and such, so it works.
Observe the vintage books about trees and insects.
Vintage books make great decorating accessories.
I've been collecting these animals for my kids since they were born. They usually get one in their stocking and sometimes in their Easter basket of for their birthday. Each one is marked with a date and name on the bottom so that when they have their own babies, I can pass them along.
I am kind of freakishly sentimental about things like that.
I love the idea of passing things on.
And these are the kind of toys you can save for the next kids and the next and the next.
All the forest animals have been gathered for out dresser top.
And do you see the birds in the picture above? I love them!
Moving Lilly's kitchen from this spot meant wall space opening up.
I went shopping in our poster collection and found this one we bought on a trip to Chicago about 10 years ago.
Not kidding.
Vintage reproduction of a Chicago railway sign.
Perfect combo of vintage, bright colors and woodsyness for their room.
When I hung it, William came in and said, "Mommy, that poster looks great!"
And James said, "and I like how you used different color tacks in each corner."
Kids care about their environment--and it doesn't have to be all cartoon Transformers and Dora the Explorer just because they are kids. Give them real, beautiful things.
There is also some other art that I made for them.
This collage shows more of the woodsy motif and also the color palette I chose for a boy/girl room.
Turquoise, orange, pink and splashes of red.
Bright, cheerful and so us.
The collage is made on part from photocopied pages of a favorite vintage book.
A Child's Garden of Verses by Robert Louis Stevenson.
It is illustrated by Alice and Marin Provensen and it is one of my TREASURES.
Found it at a used book sale for like a $1. (see more of their work here)
I also like to display a vintage toy or 2. Remember this one?
It kind of works still, but mostly I love the colors and the art.
Here's her wall of art.
Another collage made by me with photocopied art from another favorite children's book and illustrator. (his books are so amazing)
Her birth announcement framed, red polka dot bird hook and a ceramic cuckoo clock from a garage sale. She has a lot of bird stuff cause I love to put a bird on it!
What would a room in my house be without a garland?
(or bunting or pendants or flags or whatever the heck you want to call them. i love them and they make me really happy)
Made from paper, not sewn, for all you non sewers out there. Yes, you too can have a garland.
On Lil's side the garland has more pink papers, on the boys' there is more turquoise.
I also gave the boys a spot to display their Lego creations.
Right now it s makeshift, just the shelves on the top of Lilly's kitchen, but we're going to put up a few more real shelves so they can display their other treasures too: pine wood derby cars, vintage Star Wars glasses etc.
The main reason for all the moving about and reorganizing was really the closet.
3 kids, all their clothes and most of their toys in one closet was a bit of a disaster.
The clothes especially.
We had them in baskets that were hard for anyone but my oldest to access.
Nothing stayed neat or the least bit orderly.
Thus the dresser.
Now there are just a few hanging clothes and everything else goes in the dresser. The kids can find their own underwear and jammies, baseball uniforms and play clothes.
It is a better system.
That, I think is the key to having kids share a room.
1. They can't have a ton of stuff.
For example, my kids don't have a lot of clothes--I would love to buy them more, but they won't fit and truthfully it's not in the budget.
And really, they don't need a ton of clothes anyway.
2. Toys must be organized in some fashion
A lot of those baskets up top are empty. We still have space for things as we need it. Others are filled with toys they don;t use often, like the musical instruments.
They know dress up clothes, or weapons go in the baskets on the floor and so they can clean up themselves.
Their massive collection of tiny, Playmobil people and parts are organized by theme into different bins.
They are not supposed to take them all out at the same time.
I know, I'm a toy nazi.
But when you've got knights, pirates, animal trainers and construction workers all strewn across the floor at the same time, you'd turn into a toy nazi too.
4. Get those Legos organized
If you have little boys, chances are you have Legos.
Legos are the bane of my existence. My boys have a gazillion because their daddy had a gazillion and he saved them all.
In a tribute to my neurosis, I organized them all by color and they are stored in these plastic bins from Target under the bed. (hey, it keeps me off meds. get off my back)
It actually does work.
When they want to build a fire station, they pull out the red box and build away.
It's easier for them to clean up by themselves too.
I'm all about helping them do things themselves, have you noticed?
No really, I mean it. It's a reality check and it will move you.
Time for me to work on our bedroom and the baby's corner.
The crib is up. Do you know how hard it is to find turquoise crib sheets?
The hunt is on.
PS. Forgot to tell you the best part. Money spent on room redo: $0!!!
Shopped my house.
I didn't spend countless hours at my parent's house last Saturday watching HGTV for nothing. I learned stuff.


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Course Code: EL-LEAD2-HR-TRNKY
Hours: 1
Type: Online Course
Content Expiration Date: 1/31/2020
Learning Objectives:1. Classify the distinctions between management and leadership.2. Integrate key leadership methods and tools into your daily work.3. Design an Action Plan for working with your manager.
Outline:I. Introduction A. Course Contributors B. About This Course C. Learning Objectives II. Management vs. Leadership A. Meet Rebecca And Nathan B. Interactive Assessment C. Comparing Management And Leadership D. Traits Of Leaders E. Leadership Styles F. The Managing Leader vs. The Micromanager G. Let's Review: Management vs. Leadership H. Section Summary III. Leadership Methods And Tools A. Stepping Into The Leadership Role B. Managing Up C. Four Rules to Minimize Conflict D. Action Plan For Working With Your Manager E. Let's Review: Leadership Methods And Tools F. Section Summary IV. Conclusion A. Summary B. References C. Congratulations
Instructor: Julia Jackson
Julia Jackson is the Director of Coaching and Training at Turnkey Strategic Relations headquartered in San Diego, CA. Her areas of expertise include leadership development, team dynamics, communications, conflict management, change management, career mobility and process improvement. Julia received her Technical MBA from the University of San Francisco and her Bachelor's Degree in Economics. She also completed a program at Coach University, with advanced curriculum in corporate coaching. Julia is certified as a coach by the International Coach Federation and a facilitator of the Coaching Clinic Program for managers.
Julia has over 15 years of experience working with clients in fast-paced environments. She has held numerous corporate roles as a Consultant, Regional Manager and Business Director, which included overseeing $20M major account client portfolios. Julia also led technical teams within large-scale IT consulting projects for Accenture and ADP. These included Fortune 500 clients in the technology, telecommunications, finance, insurance, and hospitality industries. She also ran a vertical division as a Program Director and Professor at a business college.
Julia's consulting roles allowed her international experience, working in the US, Canada, and Europe. This led her to volunteer as a consultant to the United Nations in Chile, where she made recommendations on technical proposals for the Economic Commission. She was also a founding coach for a non-profit dedicated to coaching entrepreneurs in Africa.
She has enjoyed being on the Board of Directors for non-profits, including the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD). Julia co-created and led Women in Leadership programs for the Organizational Development Network. Her professional associations also include the San Diego Professional Coach Alliance and Toastmasters International. Having written a workshop series to assist job seekers, Julia has facilitated at dozens of EDD and non-profit locations.
Disclosure: Julia Jackson has declared that no conflict of interest, Relevant Financial Relationship or Relevant Non-Financial Relationship exists.
Target Audience:The target audience for this course is: intermediate level General Staff.
Relias Learning will be transparent in disclosing if any commercial support, sponsorship or co-providership is present prior to the learner completing the course.
Relias Learning has a grievance policy in place to facilitate reports of dissatisfaction. Relias Learning will make every effort to resolve each grievance in a mutually satisfactory manner. In order to report a complaint or grievance please contact Relias Learning at firstname.lastname@example.com.
All courses offered by Relias Learning, LLC are developed from a foundation of diversity, inclusiveness, and a multicultural perspective. Knowledge, values and awareness related to cultural competency are infused throughout the course content.
To earn continuing education credit for this course you must achieve a passing score of 80% on the post-test and complete the course evaluation.
Course Delivery Method and FormatAsynchronous Distance Learning with interactivity which includes quizzes with questions/answers, and posttests.
Relias strives to measurably improve the lives of the most vulnerable members of society and those who care for them by providing online analytics, assessments and learning across healthcare. The product of a merger between Silverchair Learning, Essential Learning, and Care2Learn, Relias delivers a breadth and depth of content unrivaled by its competitors. We provide flexible e-Learning solutions to meet your needs: Relias Academy for individuals, Relias Learning Management System for organizations, Enterprise solutions for large organizations and partnerships. Relias Learning is based in Cary, North Carolina. For more information, visit www.reliaslearning.com.


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Fears of a new chapter in the Final Fantasy XIII saga bringing another 40-80 hours of battling the same old beasts were put to rest this evening, as art director Isamu Kamikokuryo showed off a series of decidedly different mythical beasts for Lightning Returns, from gigantic dragons to decaying undead.
While I rather enjoyed Final Fantasy XIII-2, I must admit battling the same creatures from the first game over and over again left the whole affair feeling a bit stale. Judging from the concept art released thus far, Lightning Returns won't suffer that same problem.
In fact, that Red Dragon picture up top seems to indicate a much more dynamic battle system than the initial presentation indicated. Removing the Dragon's horns disable the breath weapon? Are we going to be targeting specific body parts? Is Lightning a one-woman monster dissection unit?


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BEIJING (Reuters) - Three Chinese astronauts returned to Earth on Wednesday, touching down in north China's Inner Mongolia after a successful 15-day mission in which they docked with an experimental manned space laboratory.
The Shenzhou 10 spacecraft, China's fifth manned space mission since 2003, completed the final trial docking with the Tiangong (Heavenly Palace) 1, critical in Beijing's quest to build a working space station by 2020.
China Central Television showed the re-entry of the capsule, dangling from an orange parachute, and its landing on flat grasslands shortly after 8 a.m. China time.
China successfully carried out its first manned docking exercise with Tiangong 1 last June, a milestone in an effort to acquire the technological and logistical skills to run a full space station that can house people for long periods.
The Shenzhou 10 was commanded by Nie Haisheng, with Zhang Xiaoguang and female astronaut Wang Yaping also on board.
The astronauts began emerging about 90 minutes after landing, helped out of the nose of the capsule by workers in white jumpsuits and into waiting chairs, smiling and waving to the TV camera.
"It's good to be home," Nie told CCTV. "Space is our dream. The motherland is always our home."
Wang gave a 50-minute televised physics lecture last week on the effects of weightlessness, widely viewed by middle school students around the country.
"This mission made me realize two dreams: my dream of flying to outer space, and my dream of being a teacher," she told CCTV. "If you have a dream, you can succeed."
The Global Times, a tabloid published by the same company that puts out the official Communist Party newspaper the People's Daily, echoed some criticism among the public about the expense of China's space programme.
"Currently, China's passion to develop space technology mainly lingers at the government level. Some even blame the government for political vanity and question whether the money couldn't be spent improving people's livelihoods," the paper said in an editorial, published before the landing.
The mission went "perfectly", Wang Zhaoyao, director of China's manned space programme, said at a news conference in Beijing.
China is still far from catching up with the established space superpowers, the United States and Russia, which decades ago learned the docking techniques carried out by the Shenzhou 10.
China must still master launching cargo and fuel via space freighters and recycling air and water for extended manned missions, state media have said. Plans call for a working space lab, the Tiangong 2, to be put into orbit in two years.
Beijing insists its space programme is for peaceful purposes, but the U.S. Defense Department has highlighted China's increasing space capabilities and said Beijing is pursuing a variety of activities aimed at preventing its adversaries from using space-based assets during a crisis.
Reporting and writing by Terril Yue Jones and Michael Martina.; Editing by Nick Macfie


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Sep 9, 2014
Commercial Aquaponics
Ok, so maybe you aren't quite ready for a commercial aquaponic system but it's a good to take a virtual tour and see how these commercial systems differ from the DIY backyard aquaponic systems. Here...read more
Sep 8, 2014
DIY Aquaponics System Design and Build
The best way to learn aquaponics is to start building your own DIY Aquaponics system. With a little ingenuity you'll be able to utilize inexpensive stuff around the house to build a very small test...read more
Sep 8, 2014
What is Aquaponics?
Aquaponics is the integration of aquaculture (fish farming) and hydroponics (growing plants in water) in a water-circulating, soil-less system. The natural bacteria in the ecosystem converts waste from...read more
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Have Questions?
Contact NSF International
- e firstname.lastname@example.com
- p +1 734.769.8010
Toll Free USA
NSF Develops Standard for Water Treatment Devices That Remove Emerging Contaminants
NSF has certified 56 water treatment devices to the first American National Standard developed to address consumer concerns of pharmaceuticals and other contaminants in drinking water
ANN ARBOR, Mich. - Global public health and safety organization NSF International has developed the first American National Standard that validates the effectiveness of water treatment devices that are designed to reduce trace levels of emerging contaminants in drinking water. The standard, named NSF/ANSI 401: Drinking Water Treatment Units - Emerging Compounds/Incidental Contaminants, addresses the ability of a water treatment device to remove up to 15 contaminants from drinking water. Types of contaminants include some pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter medications, herbicides, pesticides and chemicals used in manufacturing such as bisphenol A (BPA).
NSF has certified 56 products to NSF/ANSI 401 at varying levels, providing home water treatment options to consumers concerned about these contaminants. The first manufacturers to achieve NSF/ANSI 401 certification for one or more of their water treatment devices include 3M Purification Inc., Access Business Group LLC, Amway China Co., Aquasana Inc., Electrolux Home Products, Everpure LLC, General Electric Company, Kaz USA Inc., Kemflo / Filbur and Whirlpool Corporation. To view the list of all 56 certified products, visit NSF International's online listings.
While not a public health issue, the contaminants covered in NSF/ANSI 401 have been detected in drinking water supplies at trace levels and can affect some consumers' perception of drinking water quality. In fact, an independent survey conducted on behalf of NSF International indicated that 63 percent of Americans are concerned about pharmaceuticals and other contaminants in their drinking water.
The new standard sets requirements for water treatment and filtration devices that reduce up to 15 individual contaminants, which have been identified in published studies as occurring in drinking water.
Prescription Drugs
- Meprobamate: a compound found in anti-anxiety drugs.
- Phenytoin: an anti-epileptic drug.
- Atenolol: a beta blocker drug.
- Carbamazepine: an anti-convulsant and mood-stabilizing drug.
- Trimethoprim: an antibiotic medication.
- Estrone: a prescription birth control drug.
Over-the-Counter Medications
- Ibuprofen: an over-the-counter pain reliever and anti-inflammatory medication.
- Naproxen: an over-the-counter pain reliever and anti-inflammatory medication.
- Herbicides and Pesticides
- DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide): a pesticide and common active ingredient in insect repellents.
- Metolachlor: an organic compound that is widely used as an herbicide.
- Linuron: an herbicide often used in the control of grasses and weeds.
Chemical Compounds
- TCEP (Tris(2-chloroethyl)phosphate): a chemical compound used as a flame retardant, plasticizer and viscosity regulator in various types of polymers including polyurethanes, polyester resins and polyacrylates.
- TCPP (Tris(1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate): a chemical compound used as a flame retardant.
- BPA (Bisphenol A): a chemical compound used as a plasticizer.
- Nonyl phenol: a collection of compounds often used as a precursor to commercial detergents.
Products covered in the standard include several types of point-of-use (POU) and point-of-entry (POE) products such as faucet mount, under sink, counter top, plumbed-in, refrigerator, pour-through, mouth drawn and hand squeezed sports bottle type filtration systems, POU reverse osmosis systems and traditional filtration systems.
Earning certification to NSF/ANSI 401 demonstrates that the product has been independently tested and verified to reduce specific contaminants. Each product was also evaluated to verify compliance with material, design and construction, performance, product literature and labeling requirements.
Background the development of NSF/ANSI 401: NSF led the development of the American National Standards for all materials and products that treat or come in contact with drinking water. In 1990, the U.S. EPA replaced its own drinking water product advisory program with these NSF standards. Today, all major plumbing codes require certification to NSF standards for pipes and plumbing components in commercial and residential buildings. As an American National Standards Institute (ANSI)-accredited organization, NSF continues its 43-year leadership in developing water standards with the development of NSF/ANSI 401.
Members of NSF's Joint Committee on Drinking Water Treatment and the NSF Task Group on Endocrine Disrupting Compounds and Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products developed the standard in cooperation with other industry, academic and regulatory experts. This included extensive review of scientifically published literature about these compounds and their occurrence and detection in drinking water. The standard was developed in accordance with the requirements set forth by ANSI, a private, non-profit organization that administers and coordinates the U.S. voluntary standardization and conformity assessment system. This process ensures balanced input from public health/regulatory officials, users/consumer representatives and industry representatives.
Certified water treatment devices are authorized to use the NSF mark on product packaging and marketing materials and are listed on NSF International's website.
For more information on the NSF/ANSI 401 standard or NSF's Drinking Water Treatment Programs, contact firstname.lastname@example.com or visit NSF's drinking water webpage. You can also email firstname.lastname@example.com, email@example.com, email@example.com and email@example.com (China) for additional information.
Editor's note: To schedule an interview with NSF Drinking Water Expert Rick Andrew, contact Kelly Ingerly at +1 734-827-6850 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
About NSF International: NSF International is a global independent organization that writes standards, and tests and certifies products for the water, food, health sciences and consumer goods industries to minimize adverse health effects and protect the environment (nsf.org). Founded in 1944, NSF is committed to protecting human health and safety worldwide. Operating in more than 155 countries, NSF is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and is a Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization Collaborating Center on Food Safety, Water Quality and Indoor Environment.
In addition to developing and certifying to drinking water standards, additional NSF services include food safety and quality programs; management systems registrations; sustainability standards development, claims and product verification; training, consulting, auditing, GMP and GLP testing, certification, R&D and regulatory guidance for the pharmaceutical and medical device industries; and testing and certification programs for bottled water and beverages, dietary supplements and consumer products.


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Tuna are kings in the ocean. Their silver scales glint as they speed through the water. They are top predators and can make short work of other shoals of fish when it comes time for feeding. The majestic bluefin's value is astronomical. In January 2013 a single fish, weighing 222 kilograms, sold at Japan's fish market for a staggering $1.8 million dollars.
Tuna can travel thousands of kilometres in their lifetime, but they can't outrun the fishing boats any more, unless we can give them ocean sanctuaries where they can have time to recover their numbers.
The increasing demand for the world's favourite fish gives no incentive to scale back the rampant overfishing. Nor are tuna the only victims – sharks, turtles, seabirds and other marine life are casualties of some of the giant nets and many thousands of hooks out there hunting down tuna. There are techniques that aren't so damaging – like the pole and line method. Many fishermen are making a good and, crucially, sustainable business out of operating in this way.
If we change our buying habits and support sustainable fishing practises like this, we can change the story of tuna.
Tuna is not just one type of fish – there are many species of varying colour and size, widely distributed across the oceans of the world. There are seven important commercial species of tuna and many more smaller related species. However, our appetite for tuna – for sandwiches and sushi – is pushing some species of the fish closer and closer to commercial extinction.
Populations of all three species of the magnificent bluefin tunas, the most iconic and commercially valuable of all tuna species, are on the brink of collapse. Atlantic bluefin is listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as Endangered and southern bluefin as Critically Endangered. Pacific bluefin has less than 5%, of its population left, similar to southern bluefin. And yet we keep fishing them!
Bigeye are following their bluefin cousins with an IUCN rating of Vulnerable – just below Endangered. And yellowfin and albacore are hot on their tails at Near Threatened with all populations in decline and some already overfished. Even in areas like the Western and Central Pacific Ocean, where they were plentiful just a few years ago – tuna are now in trouble. If they are to avoid going the way of the bluefins, then we need to dramatically reign in the tuna fishing industry and make ocean sanctuaries in key areas to help the fish populations recover.
The last and most plentiful of the big seven – skipjack – is caught more than any other type of tuna. It's the one most likely to end up in catfood and cans.
While skipjack is not yet overfished, if the current rate of catch continues it will be. In addition, the methods used to net skipjack all too often catch young yellowfin and bigeye as well, threatening these species further.
Numerous other marine species are hooked and netted across the oceans in the hunt for tuna. More than 100 million sharks, and tens of thousands of turtles are killed every year as bycatch.
And as with all fishing fleets, advances in technology mean bigger and bigger ships – floating tuna factories – are now able to take as much tuna in two days as some countries can take in a year.
Of course the pirate fishing fleets are always on standby to steal from any countries waters. Often they transfer their illegal catch far out at sea into "legal" processing boats, effectively laundering their stolen fish and making it almost impossible to trace. We can easily stop this practise by banning the transfer of fish at sea and insisting boats come into port, where the catch can be checked and verified.
Some legal fishing companies are almost as bad as the pirates when it comes to tuna. A "sweetheart deal" sounds like something you would want – right? Not in this case. It means countries and rich multinationals offering a fraction of the value of the tuna catch in return for licenses to fish in the waters of coastal states. Sometimes they pay as little as five percent of the value of the fish. It's just wrong.
The first part of the answer is always cut down the number of boats on the water – starting with the biggest and baddest. There are simply too many boats chasing too few fish. Make sure those remaining are using methods that don't have bycatch issues – like pole and line.
Secondly – create oceans sanctuaries. We need to protect the tuna populations that are left, and give them time to recover. A network of sanctuaries across 40 percent the world's oceans will give all marine species that healing time. Strategically placed sanctuaries that defend the breeding and spawning grounds of the tuna will bring a new generation of the kings of the sea.
The last part of the answer is always in your hands. Don't buy endangered tuna. Don't let your local supermarket or restaurant sell it. If you see tuna in a tin or on a menu, ask where it came from and how it was caught. If you can't be sure it was caught well, from healthy stocks – then don't buy it. Save this page in your smartphone if you have one – and show your local retailers this story.
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It keeps thousands of people in jobs, ensures Yorkshire's moorland stays diverse with wildlife and contributes more than £2bn to the national economy.
But as gamekeepers across the region mark the Glorious 12th and the start of the grouse season today, a new group set up to fight for the survival of shooting on the moors of North Yorkshire has urged people to recognise the multitude of benefits it brings.
The North Yorkshire Moors Moorland Organisation (NYMMO) brings together keepers from 12 North Yorkshire estates, including Danby, Rosedale and Westerdale, Sleights and Goathland and Thimbleby, who felt their livelihoods - and way of life - were being threatened, both by misinformation and the possibility of a ban in future.
They are now working to promote the benefits that managed moorlands bring, not only to the moors and wildlife, but also to communities and the rural economy that is helped by the shooting parties. It is a picture replicated across the country, from Scotland to the Peak District.
NYMMO coordinator Tina Brough said: "There seems to be more and more bad publicity about shooting, and following the hunting ban, people were thinking 'will we be next?'. We want to promote the good side of moorland management before it gets to that point."
Shooting, and preparing for a shoot, is just a small proportion of a keeper's role. Trapping predators such as stoats and foxes allows ground nesting birds such are the red-status lapwing, curlew and merlin, to thrive, and the NYMMO plans to survey wildlife on the moors in an attempt to show that once-threatened species are benefitting from moorland management.
"People have the misconception that we kill everything just to keep grouse but that's not true," Miss Brough said. "If game keepers weren't there the moors would not be sustainable."
At Thimbleby Estate, near Northallerton, heather burning is key to moorland management.
In May, 200 acres of heather moorland in the Peak District were destroyed after an accidental fire spread. Moorland management, which includes creating firebreaks, was not in use.
Thimbleby head keeper David Dickinson said: "If we didn't burn, a summer fire would run for miles and miles. It would be a disaster. People seem to think moorland management is all about wealthy people shooting, but it's so much more than that.
"It's about creating a healthy moor that can be the best it can be - and also an environment where a wide range of people can get enjoyment from it. On shoot days we have ladies beating, students helping us when they're off college - it's a big part of the community."
Meanwhile, a row between Sir Ian Botham and Chris Packham over whether grouse shooting should be banned saw the former England cricketer label the BBC wildlife presenter an "extremist".
More than 80,000 people have signed a petition calling for shooting to be outlawed.
Sir Ian, wholives in North Yorkshire, is a supporter of the shoot while Mr Packham has backed the petition, and the pair engaged in an angry clash over the issue on BBC Radio 4's Today programme.
Mr Packham said the shoots damage bird of prey populations while Sir Ian suggested the presenter should not be allowed to publicly take sides because of his status as a BBC employee.
At the same time, a report by government conservation agency Natural England has concluded that England's uplands could support more than 200 breeding pairs of hen harriers, but the bird of prey's numbers are being kept down by illegal persecution.
The RSPB recently pulled out of the Government's hen harrier action plan because it felt the plan was not delivering the "urgent action and change in behaviour" needed to bring the bird of prey back from the brink of extinction in England.
The wildlife charity also raised concerns about the "environmental damage" caused by practices it says are used by grouse moor managers, such as draining and burning habitat and killing mountain hares to reduce disease in grouse.
It has called for the licensing of the industry, which it argues would drive up standards and ensure grouse moors complied with the law or risk losing their right to hold shoots.
The renewed debate comes as early hopes for a relatively good grouse shooting season, with better chick survival than the "calamitous conditions" last year, were undermined by adverse late weather during the nesting period.
The Moorland Association, whose members own and manage 860,000 acres of heather moorland in England and Wales for red grouse, said there could be pockets of poor grouse numbers on some moors and shoot days being cancelled.
But chairman Robert Benson said that there were still "positive outcomes" on land managed for grouse shooting, with 18,000 acres of peatland habitat restored across northern England.