Discussion Forum: Thread 350986

 Author: MiniRoz View Messages Posted By MiniRoz
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 12:41
 Subject: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
 Viewed: 391 times
 Topic: Buying
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MiniRoz (516)

Location:  USA, Virginia
Member Since Contact Type Status
Jan 22, 2023 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: Fig n’ BrickBerry Jam
I received an order with several minifigs, two SW polybags, and two trans windows.
The moment I opened the mailer, I felt like I’d walked into a dive bar circa
1984. The cigarette smell was so strong that, when I put the items outside to
air out, my hands smelled like smoke after several washings. Additionally, the
clear trans parts have that yellow tobacco film.
I contacted the seller, and they told me they store their Lego in a “non-smoking”
bedroom (reminds me of peeing in a pool analogy), but that he would accept a
return once he receives the items I ship back at my expense.
1. Is there an effective way to thoroughly clean and remove odor from figs, polybags,
and parts without ruining them?
2. While there is nothing in this seller’s terms regarding cigarette smoke, are
there rules or at least a universal agreement that this should be disclosed?
3. Piggybacking on number 3, should a buyer be responsible for shipping cost
to return said stank items?

I understand that parts can be both new and wreak of smoke, but should there
not be some rule regarding this sort of thing? If I were a fishmonger and used
my back office to sort and pack new parts with my fishy fingers, I can’t imagine
any buyers would find that acceptable, but at least that smell doesn’t permeate
LEGO as much. Maybe not the best analogy because secondhand fish smell isn’t
a health hazard, but you get where I’m going.
 Author: Cob View Messages Posted By Cob
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 13:58
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
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 Topic: Buying
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Cob (3598)

Location:  USA, Missouri
Member Since Contact Type Status
Nov 18, 2014 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: Cob's Brick House
1. Is there an effective way to thoroughly clean and remove odor from figs, polybags,
and parts without ruining them?

Dawn soap and water
 Author: randyipp View Messages Posted By randyipp
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 21:43
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
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 Topic: Buying
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randyipp (3558)

Location:  USA, New Hampshire
Member Since Contact Type Status
Dec 24, 2004 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: Addicted to Building
In Buying, Cob writes:
  1. Is there an effective way to thoroughly clean and remove odor from figs, polybags,
and parts without ruining them?

Dawn soap and water

This has never once worked for me, the only thing that has ever worked is letting
them air out, sometimes for years.
 Author: Akir View Messages Posted By Akir
 Posted: Dec 3, 2023 07:01
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
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 Topic: Buying
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Akir (143)

Location:  Austria, Steiermark
Member Since Contact Type Status
Dec 28, 2020 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: Some Old Bricks
In Buying, randyipp writes:
  In Buying, Cob writes:
  1. Is there an effective way to thoroughly clean and remove odor from figs, polybags,
and parts without ruining them?

Dawn soap and water

This has never once worked for me, the only thing that has ever worked is letting
them air out, sometimes for years.

I got a stinky batch some time ago, and tried with dish soap and water, let it
soak over night, then brush with a toothbrush. I was surprised myself, but it
worked. I still have them in a separate box though, kind of waiting for the smell
to return, but so far it seems ok. No idea what exactly did it, or how thoroughly
they were becigaretted before I got them...
 Author: PlanetEarthToys View Messages Posted By PlanetEarthToys
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 14:02
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
 Viewed: 78 times
 Topic: Buying
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PlanetEarthToys (139)

Location:  USA, Arkansas
Member Since Contact Type Status
Aug 24, 2021 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: Planet Earth Toys
In Buying, MiniRoz writes:
  I received an order with several minifigs, two SW polybags, and two trans windows.
The moment I opened the mailer, I felt like I’d walked into a dive bar circa
1984. The cigarette smell was so strong that, when I put the items outside to
air out, my hands smelled like smoke after several washings. Additionally, the
clear trans parts have that yellow tobacco film.
I contacted the seller, and they told me they store their Lego in a “non-smoking”
bedroom (reminds me of peeing in a pool analogy), but that he would accept a
return once he receives the items I ship back at my expense.
1. Is there an effective way to thoroughly clean and remove odor from figs, polybags,
and parts without ruining them?
2. While there is nothing in this seller’s terms regarding cigarette smoke, are
there rules or at least a universal agreement that this should be disclosed?
3. Piggybacking on number 3, should a buyer be responsible for shipping cost
to return said stank items?

I understand that parts can be both new and wreak of smoke, but should there
not be some rule regarding this sort of thing? If I were a fishmonger and used
my back office to sort and pack new parts with my fishy fingers, I can’t imagine
any buyers would find that acceptable, but at least that smell doesn’t permeate
LEGO as much. Maybe not the best analogy because secondhand fish smell isn’t
a health hazard, but you get where I’m going.

i like it when the kids smash crayons & jelly into the backs.. that's always
fun to clean out.

good luck
 Author: jennnifer View Messages Posted By jennnifer
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 14:56
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
 Viewed: 78 times
 Topic: Buying
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jennnifer (3588)

Location:  USA, Illinois
Member Since Contact Type Status
Sep 8, 2009 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: Old Grey Bricks
In Buying, MiniRoz writes:
  I received an order with several minifigs, two SW polybags, and two trans windows.
The moment I opened the mailer, I felt like I’d walked into a dive bar circa
1984. The cigarette smell was so strong that, when I put the items outside to
air out, my hands smelled like smoke after several washings. Additionally, the
clear trans parts have that yellow tobacco film.
I contacted the seller, and they told me they store their Lego in a “non-smoking”
bedroom (reminds me of peeing in a pool analogy), but that he would accept a
return once he receives the items I ship back at my expense.
1. Is there an effective way to thoroughly clean and remove odor from figs, polybags,
and parts without ruining them?

Most plastic parts clean up easily with Dawn and some fresh air. However, they
can't really be considered New at this point. Tires, instructions, cloth,
and packaging are nearly impossible to fix.

  2. While there is nothing in this seller’s terms regarding cigarette smoke, are
there rules or at least a universal agreement that this should be disclosed?

Yes, absolutely they should disclose the smokey smell. A bedroom? Really? No,
there are no official rules. This is an open marketplace. That sort of thing
is only enforced from buyer feedback.

  3. Piggybacking on number 3, should a buyer be responsible for shipping cost
to return said stank items?

Some packages end up very smokey from just a mail courier. If you are certain
the seller is at fault (sounds like they are), then insist on a refund or full
shipping return. Leave appropriate feedback as a service to other BrickLinkers,
and then wear any retaliatory feedback with pride.

Good luck,
~Jen

  
I understand that parts can be both new and wreak of smoke, but should there
not be some rule regarding this sort of thing? If I were a fishmonger and used
my back office to sort and pack new parts with my fishy fingers, I can’t imagine
any buyers would find that acceptable, but at least that smell doesn’t permeate
LEGO as much. Maybe not the best analogy because secondhand fish smell isn’t
a health hazard, but you get where I’m going.
 Author: MiniRoz View Messages Posted By MiniRoz
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 15:53
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
 Viewed: 66 times
 Topic: Buying
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MiniRoz (516)

Location:  USA, Virginia
Member Since Contact Type Status
Jan 22, 2023 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: Fig n’ BrickBerry Jam
In Buying, jennnifer writes:
  In Buying, MiniRoz writes:
  I received an order with several minifigs, two SW polybags, and two trans windows.
The moment I opened the mailer, I felt like I’d walked into a dive bar circa
1984. The cigarette smell was so strong that, when I put the items outside to
air out, my hands smelled like smoke after several washings. Additionally, the
clear trans parts have that yellow tobacco film.
I contacted the seller, and they told me they store their Lego in a “non-smoking”
bedroom (reminds me of peeing in a pool analogy), but that he would accept a
return once he receives the items I ship back at my expense.
1. Is there an effective way to thoroughly clean and remove odor from figs, polybags,
and parts without ruining them?

Most plastic parts clean up easily with Dawn and some fresh air. However, they
can't really be considered New at this point. Tires, instructions, cloth,
and packaging are nearly impossible to fix.

  2. While there is nothing in this seller’s terms regarding cigarette smoke, are
there rules or at least a universal agreement that this should be disclosed?

Yes, absolutely they should disclose the smokey smell. A bedroom? Really? No,
there are no official rules. This is an open marketplace. That sort of thing
is only enforced from buyer feedback.

  3. Piggybacking on number 3, should a buyer be responsible for shipping cost
to return said stank items?

Some packages end up very smokey from just a mail courier. If you are certain
the seller is at fault (sounds like they are), then insist on a refund or full
shipping return. Leave appropriate feedback as a service to other BrickLinkers,
and then wear any retaliatory feedback with pride.

Good luck,
~Jen

  
I understand that parts can be both new and wreak of smoke, but should there
not be some rule regarding this sort of thing? If I were a fishmonger and used
my back office to sort and pack new parts with my fishy fingers, I can’t imagine
any buyers would find that acceptable, but at least that smell doesn’t permeate
LEGO as much. Maybe not the best analogy because secondhand fish smell isn’t
a health hazard, but you get where I’m going.

Thanks, Jen! Sage advice. The seller is definitely a smoker, and I appreciate
they were honest about it. They seemed genuinely shocked that cigarette smoke
somehow made its way into the one room in their house that’s “non-smoking”. The
door to that room isn’t the impenetrable force field they think it is.
They are a new seller with only a few orders, so I think they may soon realize
they need a new game plan.
It’s funny you mention retaliatory feedback bc I left neutral feedback for the
first time last week, and the dude went bananas. He left me negative feedback
and said I’m ungrateful that he refunded my order when it hadn’t shown up after
over two months, and he had no way to confirm it was shipped. That’s exactly
why I’ve never left neutral or negative feedback before. Hell hath no fury
like a seller with neutral feedback! I requested it be removed by BL, but they
messaged me saying they aren’t currently responding to any requests until they’ve
restored everyone’s accounts, so I pretty much groveled to get him to remove
it. I really do wish I’d read your advice about wearing it with pride, bc I’ve
only made the feedback system worse by removing the neutral feedback. Sigh…
 Author: jennnifer View Messages Posted By jennnifer
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 15:58
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
 Viewed: 63 times
 Topic: Buying
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jennnifer (3588)

Location:  USA, Illinois
Member Since Contact Type Status
Sep 8, 2009 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: Old Grey Bricks
In Buying, MiniRoz writes:
  In Buying, jennnifer writes:
  In Buying, MiniRoz writes:
  I received an order with several minifigs, two SW polybags, and two trans windows.
The moment I opened the mailer, I felt like I’d walked into a dive bar circa
1984. The cigarette smell was so strong that, when I put the items outside to
air out, my hands smelled like smoke after several washings. Additionally, the
clear trans parts have that yellow tobacco film.
I contacted the seller, and they told me they store their Lego in a “non-smoking”
bedroom (reminds me of peeing in a pool analogy), but that he would accept a
return once he receives the items I ship back at my expense.
1. Is there an effective way to thoroughly clean and remove odor from figs, polybags,
and parts without ruining them?

Most plastic parts clean up easily with Dawn and some fresh air. However, they
can't really be considered New at this point. Tires, instructions, cloth,
and packaging are nearly impossible to fix.

  2. While there is nothing in this seller’s terms regarding cigarette smoke, are
there rules or at least a universal agreement that this should be disclosed?

Yes, absolutely they should disclose the smokey smell. A bedroom? Really? No,
there are no official rules. This is an open marketplace. That sort of thing
is only enforced from buyer feedback.

  3. Piggybacking on number 3, should a buyer be responsible for shipping cost
to return said stank items?

Some packages end up very smokey from just a mail courier. If you are certain
the seller is at fault (sounds like they are), then insist on a refund or full
shipping return. Leave appropriate feedback as a service to other BrickLinkers,
and then wear any retaliatory feedback with pride.

Good luck,
~Jen

  
I understand that parts can be both new and wreak of smoke, but should there
not be some rule regarding this sort of thing? If I were a fishmonger and used
my back office to sort and pack new parts with my fishy fingers, I can’t imagine
any buyers would find that acceptable, but at least that smell doesn’t permeate
LEGO as much. Maybe not the best analogy because secondhand fish smell isn’t
a health hazard, but you get where I’m going.

Thanks, Jen! Sage advice. The seller is definitely a smoker, and I appreciate
they were honest about it. They seemed genuinely shocked that cigarette smoke
somehow made its way into the one room in their house that’s “non-smoking”. The
door to that room isn’t the impenetrable force field they think it is.
They are a new seller with only a few orders, so I think they may soon realize
they need a new game plan.
It’s funny you mention retaliatory feedback bc I left neutral feedback for the
first time last week, and the dude went bananas. He left me negative feedback
and said I’m ungrateful that he refunded my order when it hadn’t shown up after
over two months, and he had no way to confirm it was shipped. That’s exactly
why I’ve never left neutral or negative feedback before. Hell hath no fury
like a seller with neutral feedback! I requested it be removed by BL, but they
messaged me saying they aren’t currently responding to any requests until they’ve
restored everyone’s accounts, so I pretty much groveled to get him to remove
it. I really do wish I’d read your advice about wearing it with pride, bc I’ve
only made the feedback system worse by removing the neutral feedback. Sigh…

Well, it's actually very understandable on your part. I know it is more difficult
for a member with a seller's account to withstand neutral or negative feedback
from buying. It doesn't show up in your shop, but is in your overall feedback
score. Savvy members can tell the difference but you never know. So, I don't
think anyone will blame you for trying to keep your record spotless. I know I
have personally refrained from leaving honest feedback for a seller who I knew
would ding me for telling the truth.

Take care!
~Jen
 Author: iprice View Messages Posted By iprice
 Posted: Dec 2, 2023 05:13
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
 Viewed: 58 times
 Topic: Buying
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iprice (1289)

Location:  United Kingdom, England
Member Since Contact Type Status
Apr 15, 2018 Contact Member Buyer
Buying Privileges - OK
In Buying, jennnifer writes:
So, I don't
  think anyone will blame you for trying to keep your record spotless. I know I
have personally refrained from leaving honest feedback for a seller who I knew
would ding me for telling the truth.

Take care!
~Jen

Every one of my Negative feedbacks are retaliatotry remarks from BAAAAAAD sellers,
including one that sent me items stinking of smoke as in original post. Rather
than accept that they are to blame, every single one of them marked me down.
And BrickLink don't care.

I would say that it's worth a retaliatory feedback if the seller really is
being a douche - let it serve as a warning to other buyers. You take the hit
for being honest, but hopefully help others.
 Author: peregrinator View Messages Posted By peregrinator
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 16:31
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
 Viewed: 60 times
 Topic: Buying
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peregrinator (878)

Location:  USA, New Jersey
Member Since Contact Type Status
Jan 21, 2003 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: Faber Family Bricks
In Buying, MiniRoz writes:
  It’s funny you mention retaliatory feedback bc I left neutral feedback for the
first time last week, and the dude went bananas. He left me negative feedback
and said I’m ungrateful that he refunded my order when it hadn’t shown up after
over two months, and he had no way to confirm it was shipped. That’s exactly
why I’ve never left neutral or negative feedback before. Hell hath no fury
like a seller with neutral feedback! I requested it be removed by BL, but they
messaged me saying they aren’t currently responding to any requests until they’ve
restored everyone’s accounts, so I pretty much groveled to get him to remove
it. I really do wish I’d read your advice about wearing it with pride, bc I’ve
only made the feedback system worse by removing the neutral feedback. Sigh…

I'm not quite sure I agree with your leaving neutral feedback in this case
(but then I don't know all the details, like whether getting a refund was
straightforward), but if I left a neutral and got negative retaliatory feedback,
that neutral would fast become a negative.
 Author: zorbanj View Messages Posted By zorbanj
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 16:54
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
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 Topic: Buying
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zorbanj (882)

Location:  USA, New Jersey
Member Since Contact Type Status
Dec 14, 2003 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: ZorbaNJ's Bricks
In Buying, MiniRoz writes:
  
Thanks, Jen! Sage advice. The seller is definitely a smoker, and I appreciate
they were honest about it. They seemed genuinely shocked that cigarette smoke
somehow made its way into the one room in their house that’s “non-smoking”. The
door to that room isn’t the impenetrable force field they think it is.
They are a new seller with only a few orders, so I think they may soon realize
they need a new game plan.
It’s funny you mention retaliatory feedback bc I left neutral feedback for the
first time last week, and the dude went bananas. He left me negative feedback
and said I’m ungrateful that he refunded my order when it hadn’t shown up after
over two months, and he had no way to confirm it was shipped. That’s exactly
why I’ve never left neutral or negative feedback before. Hell hath no fury
like a seller with neutral feedback! I requested it be removed by BL, but they
messaged me saying they aren’t currently responding to any requests until they’ve
restored everyone’s accounts, so I pretty much groveled to get him to remove
it. I really do wish I’d read your advice about wearing it with pride, bc I’ve
only made the feedback system worse by removing the neutral feedback. Sigh…

My opinion, if you aren't satisfied with your order and the seller does what
you ask of them within a reasonable amount of time, leave no feedback. Fixing
mistakes eventually adds up and a subpar seller either wises up or stops selling.

BTW, both neutral and negative feedbacks ding the seller's feedback percentage,
which is why sellers don't like to get either.

Regarding your "scented" order, I would have asked the seller to explain
why he thinks you should have to pay for return shipping when you didn't
get what you asked for.
 Author: popsicle View Messages Posted By popsicle
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 15:36
 Subject: (Cancelled)
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popsicle (6716)

Location:  USA, Washington
Member Since Contact Type Status
Feb 21, 2006 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: ConstrucToys
(Cancelled)
 Author: Tloftus View Messages Posted By Tloftus
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 16:57
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
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Tloftus (54)

Location:  USA, Indiana
Member Since Contact Type Status
Mar 23, 2021 Contact Member Buyer
Buying Privileges - OK
In Buying, MiniRoz writes:
  I received an order with several minifigs, two SW polybags, and two trans windows.
The moment I opened the mailer, I felt like I’d walked into a dive bar circa
1984. The cigarette smell was so strong that, when I put the items outside to
air out, my hands smelled like smoke after several washings. Additionally, the
clear trans parts have that yellow tobacco film.
I contacted the seller, and they told me they store their Lego in a “non-smoking”
bedroom (reminds me of peeing in a pool analogy), but that he would accept a
return once he receives the items I ship back at my expense.
1. Is there an effective way to thoroughly clean and remove odor from figs, polybags,
and parts without ruining them?
2. While there is nothing in this seller’s terms regarding cigarette smoke, are
there rules or at least a universal agreement that this should be disclosed?
3. Piggybacking on number 3, should a buyer be responsible for shipping cost
to return said stank items?

I understand that parts can be both new and wreak of smoke, but should there
not be some rule regarding this sort of thing? If I were a fishmonger and used
my back office to sort and pack new parts with my fishy fingers, I can’t imagine
any buyers would find that acceptable, but at least that smell doesn’t permeate
LEGO as much. Maybe not the best analogy because secondhand fish smell isn’t
a health hazard, but you get where I’m going.

i don't know if you have tried (Pooph™ takes “stink” out of the equation)
literaly that's what it's called Pooph, i use it for all kinds of uses
that smell or any bad odors. it's at walmart,amazon and such place just
google it. and for the other method is you can go to any auto parts store or
walmart and get one of those odor eliminator bombs for your car about $5 a can,
toss the smelly items in your car and bomb the car and polybags car and polybags
smell great and of course for the loose items Dawn and warm water and let air
dry. sometimes i think outside the box and it gets me in trouble the wife says
lol
 Author: SylvainLS View Messages Posted By SylvainLS
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 17:14
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
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 Topic: Buying
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SylvainLS (47)

Location:  France, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Member Since Contact Type Status
Apr 25, 2014 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store Closed Store: BuyerOnly
BrickLink Discussions Moderator (?)
In Buying, Tloftus writes:
  […]
and for the other method is you can go to any auto parts store or
walmart and get one of those odor eliminator bombs for your car about $5 a can,
toss the smelly items in your car and bomb the car and polybags car and polybags

Why? Do you think the bomp will notice and won’t work if you’re not using it
in a car? 
 Author: peregrinator View Messages Posted By peregrinator
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 17:47
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
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peregrinator (878)

Location:  USA, New Jersey
Member Since Contact Type Status
Jan 21, 2003 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: Faber Family Bricks
In Buying, Tloftus writes:
  toss the smelly items in your car and bomb the car

Yes, I did this with some smelly French cheese and mustard and it turned out
great
 
 Author: SylvainLS View Messages Posted By SylvainLS
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 17:59
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
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SylvainLS (47)

Location:  France, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Member Since Contact Type Status
Apr 25, 2014 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store Closed Store: BuyerOnly
BrickLink Discussions Moderator (?)
In Buying, peregrinator writes:
  […]
Yes, I did this with some smelly French cheese and mustard and it turned out
great

This is not cheese! At best, it’s a “milk preparation.”
 Author: 1001bricks View Messages Posted By 1001bricks
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 18:09
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
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 Topic: Buying
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1001bricks (53415)

Location:  France, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Member Since Contact Type Status
Sep 6, 2005 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: 1001bricks
In Buying, SylvainLS writes:
  In Buying, peregrinator writes:
  […]
Yes, I did this with some smelly French cheese and mustard and it turned out
great

This is not cheese! At best, it’s a “milk preparation.”

Milk?! I thought it was made of plastic. It has the same taste anyway.
 Author: wildchicken13 View Messages Posted By wildchicken13
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 18:25
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
 Viewed: 33 times
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wildchicken13 (879)

Location:  USA, Illinois
Member Since Contact Type Status
Aug 11, 2014 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: Wild Chicken
In Buying, 1001bricks writes:
  Milk?! I thought it was made of plastic. It has the same taste anyway.

American cheese isn't even real cheese
 Author: macebobo View Messages Posted By macebobo
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 18:54
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macebobo (2664)

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In Buying, wildchicken13 writes:
  In Buying, 1001bricks writes:
  Milk?! I thought it was made of plastic. It has the same taste anyway.

American cheese isn't even real cheese

Quite true, literally. The FDA calls it “pasteurized processed American cheese
food.” True cheese has to be more than 50% pressed curds of milk.

Personally, I prefer a good Havarti or Monterey Jack for my burger and grilled
cheese sandwiches.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a5W2pDT-jGI
 Author: peregrinator View Messages Posted By peregrinator
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peregrinator (878)

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In Buying, macebobo writes:
  In Buying, wildchicken13 writes:
  In Buying, 1001bricks writes:
  Milk?! I thought it was made of plastic. It has the same taste anyway.

American cheese isn't even real cheese

Quite true, literally. The FDA calls it “pasteurized processed American cheese
food.” True cheese has to be more than 50% pressed curds of milk.

Personally, I prefer a good Havarti or Monterey Jack for my burger and grilled
cheese sandwiches.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a5W2pDT-jGI

I've been using pepper jack for grilled cheese (on rye)
 Author: SylvainLS View Messages Posted By SylvainLS
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SylvainLS (47)

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In Buying, wildchicken13 writes:
  In Buying, 1001bricks writes:
  Milk?! I thought it was made of plastic. It has the same taste anyway.

American cheese isn't even real cheese

I spent a couple weeks in Canada¹ a (young) lifetime ago. I often went to the
same bar/diner for dinner.
Once, I had a bagel with… er, I can’t remember what they put on it exactly, some
kind of meat and veggies.  Well, it wasn’t bad but there was some very light
yellow paste on the bread.  It had no real taste except “fatty.”
So, a few days later, I asked for a bagel again but, if possible, without “butter”
(see, I can be nice and use words I don’t think).
The waitress told me it wasn’t butter, it was cheese….
I answered “okay, then can I have one without ‘cheese’?”

That being said, there certainly are good American cheeses out there (after all,
there’s French expat who need their dose ) but I doubt you’ll find them at
Costco

–––
¹ In Québec!  “Je me souviens,” well, they sure don’t remember about food!
 Author: wildchicken13 View Messages Posted By wildchicken13
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wildchicken13 (879)

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In Buying, SylvainLS writes:
  there certainly are good American cheeses out there

In the U.S., "American cheese" generally refers to Kraft singles or
the like. They're usually sold at supermarkets, pre-sliced into thin squares.
Sometimes, the slices are even individually wrapped in plastic.

Apparently, it's made by mixing together various cheeses, similar to the
way hot dogs are made by mixing together various animal parts.

But yes, you can find real, good-quality cheese in America, perhaps even at Costco.
Just not Kraft singles, Velveeta, Babybel, Cheez Whiz, Easy Cheese, etc.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_cheese
 Author: SylvainLS View Messages Posted By SylvainLS
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SylvainLS (47)

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In Buying, wildchicken13 writes:
  In Buying, SylvainLS writes:
  there certainly are good American cheeses out there

In the U.S., "American cheese" generally refers to Kraft singles or
the like.

Oopsies 😅

😮‍💨 Marketting gobbling up a simple expression again.

Thanks for the info


  […]
Babybel

I’m sorry to say it but I’ve to be honest: Babybel is made by Bel (duh)… a French
company.
(They make La vache qui rit / The Laughing Cow too, and Kiri….)
 Author: wildchicken13 View Messages Posted By wildchicken13
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wildchicken13 (879)

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In Buying, SylvainLS writes:
  Oopsies 😅

😮‍💨 Marketting gobbling up a simple expression again.

Thanks for the info

Inside the U.S., "American cheese" = Kraft Singles, etc.
Outside the U.S., "American cheese" = cheese from America

  I’m sorry to say it but I’ve to be honest: Babybel is made by Bel (duh)… a French
company.
(They make La vache qui rit / The Laughing Cow too, and Kiri….)

Babybel is pretty popular in the America. You can find it at Costco.
 Author: yorbrick View Messages Posted By yorbrick
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yorbrick (1196)

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  Inside the U.S., "American cheese" = Kraft Singles, etc.
Outside the U.S., "American cheese" = cheese from America

Here "American cheese" usually means the singles that are for low quality
cheeseburgers or the stuff sprayed from a can. Or used as a joke for poor quality.
I know there are small producers of some very decent cheese in the US but that
doesn't travel, so we only really get the poor quality milk protein derived
products that can barely be described as cheese.
 Author: wildchicken13 View Messages Posted By wildchicken13
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wildchicken13 (879)

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In Buying, yorbrick writes:
  Here "American cheese" usually means the singles that are for low quality
cheeseburgers or the stuff sprayed from a can. Or used as a joke for poor quality.
I know there are small producers of some very decent cheese in the US but that
doesn't travel, so we only really get the poor quality milk protein derived
products that can barely be described as cheese.

I'll "refine" my statement a bit more (no pun intended):

In the English-speaking world, "American cheese" generally refers to
a specific type of processed cheese, such as Kraft Singles.

In other parts of the world, such as France, "American cheese" generally
refers to any cheese produced in or imported from the U.S.

I think the French would have a hard time calling "American cheese" cheese.
Some may not even recognize it as cheese. SylvainLS thought it was butter!
 Author: SylvainLS View Messages Posted By SylvainLS
 Posted: Dec 3, 2023 11:02
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SylvainLS (47)

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In Buying, wildchicken13 writes:
  […]
SylvainLS thought it was butter!

Precision: I didn’t think it was butter, I thought it was what passed for butter
in these, er, food-challenged lands and magnanimously called it “butter” as to
not imperil Franco-Canadian relations

(Butter has some taste.  Margarine has some taste.  That spread didn’t.)

I could also talk about that detestable habit of serving beer icy (literally!
one was so cold (and watery, cue the “making love in a canoe” reference) that,
after a minute of being served, a thin coating of ice detached from the bottom
of the glass and turned around to float on the surface) and spongy veal (so tender
you could cut it with a spoon… but, frankly, seemed like I was eating a disaggregated
sponge).
Those two were in a big hotel in Montréal.

As for the USA in particular, I only had a short sojourn in New York, and, except
for that obsession with icy drinks, food there was okay (I remember a perfectly
cooked salmon steak and good turkey sandwiches). But then, is New York America?
They spoke French in a restaurant I went to


(Anyway, all that is mostly¹ banter.  De gustibus et coloribus non est disputandum.

¹ Mostly, not completely, because there’s some things you shan’t do with food
and some things that can’t be called food! )
 Author: wildchicken13 View Messages Posted By wildchicken13
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wildchicken13 (879)

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In Buying, SylvainLS writes:
  Those two were in a big hotel in Montréal.

A few years ago I spent a few days in Montreal. One night, I had dinner at the
restaurant in my hotel (don't remember which) and I ordered a steak. It was
very good (by my American standards) and when I mentioned this to the waiter,
he said they lose money on that dish because they don't want to charge customers
the full cost of the meat (nor sacrifice on quality by choosing a cheaper cut).

So, even hotel food in Montreal is better than American food. I've never
been to France, but I'm sure French food is even better.
 Author: 1001bricks View Messages Posted By 1001bricks
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1001bricks (53415)

Location:  France, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
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  So, even hotel food in Montreal is better than American food. I've never
been to France, but I'm sure French food is even better.

Frankly yes - but maybe apart steaks (or meat not in sauce), T-bones and such
which are crazy where you live. Habits, cultural differences. In our home we
rarely (maybe once every couple of months) have steak.

Ah, tonight is pot-au-feu (beef stew) here, yum yum !
 Author: popsicle View Messages Posted By popsicle
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popsicle (6716)

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In Buying, wildchicken13 writes:
  In Buying, SylvainLS writes:
  Those two were in a big hotel in Montréal.

A few years ago I spent a few days in Montreal. One night, I had dinner at the
restaurant in my hotel (don't remember which) and I ordered a steak. It was
very good (by my American standards) and when I mentioned this to the waiter,
he said they lose money on that dish because they don't want to charge customers
the full cost of the meat (nor sacrifice on quality by choosing a cheaper cut).

Don't recall the eats there, sure it was good. But the Montreal area does
have more than it's share of fantastic Jazz joints, along with plenty of
culture and interesting history. Enjoyable place to visit.

  
So, even hotel food in Montreal is better than American food. I've never
been to France, but I'm sure French food is even better.

Wow! Impressive

As posted upstream "simply smile knowingly at such ignorance"
 Author: 1001bricks View Messages Posted By 1001bricks
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1001bricks (53415)

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In Buying, popsicle writes:
  In Buying, wildchicken13 writes:
  In Buying, SylvainLS writes:
  Those two were in a big hotel in Montréal.

A few years ago I spent a few days in Montreal. One night, I had dinner at the
restaurant in my hotel (don't remember which) and I ordered a steak. It was
very good (by my American standards) and when I mentioned this to the waiter,
he said they lose money on that dish because they don't want to charge customers
the full cost of the meat (nor sacrifice on quality by choosing a cheaper cut).

Don't recall the eats there, sure it was good. But the Montreal area does
have more than it's share of fantastic Jazz joints, along with plenty of
culture and interesting history. Enjoyable place to visit.

YES! It's during the free open air summer Montreal Jazz festival that I discovered
live (and a few meters from them) those fantastic guitarists, Strunz & Farah,
highly recommend them, for example:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ycIuJNp8sQ
 Author: popsicle View Messages Posted By popsicle
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popsicle (6716)

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In Buying, 1001bricks writes:
  In Buying, popsicle writes:
  In Buying, wildchicken13 writes:
  In Buying, SylvainLS writes:
  Those two were in a big hotel in Montréal.

A few years ago I spent a few days in Montreal. One night, I had dinner at the
restaurant in my hotel (don't remember which) and I ordered a steak. It was
very good (by my American standards) and when I mentioned this to the waiter,
he said they lose money on that dish because they don't want to charge customers
the full cost of the meat (nor sacrifice on quality by choosing a cheaper cut).

Don't recall the eats there, sure it was good. But the Montreal area does
have more than it's share of fantastic Jazz joints, along with plenty of
culture and interesting history. Enjoyable place to visit.

YES! It's during the free open air summer Montreal Jazz festival that I discovered
live (and a few meters from them) those fantastic guitarists, Strunz & Farah,
highly recommend them, for example:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ycIuJNp8sQ

What year were you there?

Thanks for the music tip and link, really appreciate such. I'm heading out
just now for my workout down at the shore (in the rain) and look forward to
listening when I get back. I'll let you know how it moves me... Thanks
 Author: 1001bricks View Messages Posted By 1001bricks
 Posted: Dec 3, 2023 13:45
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1001bricks (53415)

Location:  France, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
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In Buying, popsicle writes:
  In Buying, 1001bricks writes:
  In Buying, popsicle writes:
  In Buying, wildchicken13 writes:
  In Buying, SylvainLS writes:
  Those two were in a big hotel in Montréal.

A few years ago I spent a few days in Montreal. One night, I had dinner at the
restaurant in my hotel (don't remember which) and I ordered a steak. It was
very good (by my American standards) and when I mentioned this to the waiter,
he said they lose money on that dish because they don't want to charge customers
the full cost of the meat (nor sacrifice on quality by choosing a cheaper cut).

Don't recall the eats there, sure it was good. But the Montreal area does
have more than it's share of fantastic Jazz joints, along with plenty of
culture and interesting history. Enjoyable place to visit.

YES! It's during the free open air summer Montreal Jazz festival that I discovered
live (and a few meters from them) those fantastic guitarists, Strunz & Farah,
highly recommend them, for example:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ycIuJNp8sQ

What year were you there?

91/92 I guess??


  Thanks for the music tip and link, really appreciate such. I'm heading out
just now for my workout down at the shore (in the rain) and look forward to
listening when I get back. I'll let you know how it moves me... Thanks

It can make you travel a lot in your head.
Travelling without moving, but that's from Jamiroquai

I know (all good) 6 first albums I guess:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strunz_%26_Farah
 Author: popsicle View Messages Posted By popsicle
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popsicle (6716)

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In Buying, 1001bricks writes:
  In Buying, popsicle writes:
  In Buying, 1001bricks writes:
  In Buying, popsicle writes:
  In Buying, wildchicken13 writes:
  In Buying, SylvainLS writes:
  Those two were in a big hotel in Montréal.

A few years ago I spent a few days in Montreal. One night, I had dinner at the
restaurant in my hotel (don't remember which) and I ordered a steak. It was
very good (by my American standards) and when I mentioned this to the waiter,
he said they lose money on that dish because they don't want to charge customers
the full cost of the meat (nor sacrifice on quality by choosing a cheaper cut).

Don't recall the eats there, sure it was good. But the Montreal area does
have more than it's share of fantastic Jazz joints, along with plenty of
culture and interesting history. Enjoyable place to visit.

YES! It's during the free open air summer Montreal Jazz festival that I discovered
live (and a few meters from them) those fantastic guitarists, Strunz & Farah,
highly recommend them, for example:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ycIuJNp8sQ

What year were you there?

91/92 I guess??


  Thanks for the music tip and link, really appreciate such. I'm heading out
just now for my workout down at the shore (in the rain) and look forward to
listening when I get back. I'll let you know how it moves me... Thanks

It can make you travel a lot in your head.
Travelling without moving, but that's from Jamiroquai

Interesting mix of styles, even genres. Nice Latin flavor to much of it, which
"moves" me, or enjoy Though not exactly my groove, thanks for sharing.

It must've been a fantastic experience, to enjoy your music live with
other fans at that venue especially.
  
I know (all good) 6 first albums I guess:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strunz_%26_Farah
 Author: 1001bricks View Messages Posted By 1001bricks
 Posted: Dec 3, 2023 16:02
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1001bricks (53415)

Location:  France, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
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  Thanks for the music tip and link, really appreciate such. I'm heading out
just now for my workout down at the shore (in the rain) and look forward to
listening when I get back. I'll let you know how it moves me... Thanks

It can make you travel a lot in your head.
Travelling without moving, but that's from Jamiroquai

Interesting mix of styles, even genres. Nice Latin flavor to much of it, which
"moves" me, or enjoy Though not exactly my groove, thanks for sharing.

Thank you. Some are different, worth a try if you've got time


  It must've been a fantastic experience, to enjoy your music live with
other fans at that venue especially.

Yes, 30 yrs, Summer in Montreal, free festival, sitting down in a locked up street,
maybe 20 feet from the musicians - with a wunder fine girlfriend, driving a Jeep,
practicing archery; good times - for sure
 Author: popsicle View Messages Posted By popsicle
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 19:26
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popsicle (6716)

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In Buying, wildchicken13 writes:
  In Buying, SylvainLS writes:
  there certainly are good American cheeses out there

In the U.S., "American cheese" generally refers to Kraft singles or
the like. They're usually sold at supermarkets, pre-sliced into thin squares.
Sometimes, the slices are even individually wrapped in plastic.

Apparently, it's made by mixing together various cheeses, similar to the
way hot dogs are made by mixing together various animal parts.

But yes, you can find real, good-quality cheese in America, perhaps even at Costco.
Just not Kraft singles, Velveeta, Babybel, Cheez Whiz, Easy Cheese, etc.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_cheese

+1

As one that really appreciates quality cheeses, Costco does have quite a few
excellent offerings from around the world, as well as some very nice American
aged cheeses brands such as Cello.

Having lived throughout northern Europe for some 15 years, believe me when I
say, I've had my fill of food snobbery, and simply smile knowingly at such
ignorance, nowadays.

-popsicle
 Author: peregrinator View Messages Posted By peregrinator
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 19:31
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peregrinator (878)

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In Buying, wildchicken13 writes:
  In Buying, SylvainLS writes:
  there certainly are good American cheeses out there

In the U.S., "American cheese" generally refers to Kraft singles or
the like. They're usually sold at supermarkets, pre-sliced into thin squares.
Sometimes, the slices are even individually wrapped in plastic.

Yes, this is "American cheese" BUT Monterey Jack is the REAL American
cheese (that is, it's real cheese and it's American).
 Author: rtzx9r View Messages Posted By rtzx9r
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 20:19
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rtzx9r (1056)

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In Buying, peregrinator writes:
  In Buying, wildchicken13 writes:
  In Buying, SylvainLS writes:
  there certainly are good American cheeses out there

In the U.S., "American cheese" generally refers to Kraft singles or
the like. They're usually sold at supermarkets, pre-sliced into thin squares.
Sometimes, the slices are even individually wrapped in plastic.

Yes, this is "American cheese" BUT Monterey Jack is the REAL American
cheese (that is, it's real cheese and it's American).

Aldi US stores have a great cheese selection year round and it is very reasonably
priced.

And while we’re on crappy US condiments.. US yellow mustard is worse than Kraft
“cheese”.
 Author: wildchicken13 View Messages Posted By wildchicken13
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 20:42
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wildchicken13 (879)

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Store: Wild Chicken
In Buying, rtzx9r writes:
  And while we’re on crappy US condiments.. US yellow mustard is worse than Kraft
“cheese”.

Indeed, America is not known for high-quality food. In my experience, the best
"American food" is usually either imported or borrowed from other countries.
 Author: toontexas View Messages Posted By toontexas
 Posted: Dec 2, 2023 13:22
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
 Viewed: 39 times
 Topic: Buying
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toontexas (2174)

Location:  USA, Texas
Member Since Contact Type Status
Nov 30, 2008 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: Texas Bricks
In Buying, wildchicken13 writes:

  
Indeed, America is not known for high-quality food.


Did someone mention steak, or brisket?
 Author: wildchicken13 View Messages Posted By wildchicken13
 Posted: Dec 3, 2023 08:55
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
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 Topic: Buying
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wildchicken13 (879)

Location:  USA, Illinois
Member Since Contact Type Status
Aug 11, 2014 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: Wild Chicken
In Buying, toontexas writes:
  Did someone mention steak, or brisket?

Good point. (And I noticed you are registered in Texas).

I'll "refine" my statement a bit more (no pun intended): I was referring
more to the preparation of the food than to the ingredients themselves.

For example, I purchased a jar of Maille Dijon mustard from a supermarket in
the U.S. It says "Product of Canada" on the label, but Maille is a French
brand and Dijon is a city in France.

Mustard grows well in cooler climates, though, so the U.S. (and France) import
a lot of their mustard seed from Canada. The recipe is French, though.

American mustard (like Heinz yellow mustard) is based on German mustard. The
Heinz brand is named for Henry John Heinz, who was born to German immigrants.

Even the hamburger, a quintessentially American food, is not really American:
It's named after the German city of Hamburg.

And American cheese is made by mixing together various different types of cheese,
similar to the way Americans are made by mixing together different types of people.
 Author: 1001bricks View Messages Posted By 1001bricks
 Posted: Dec 3, 2023 11:10
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
 Viewed: 30 times
 Topic: Buying
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1001bricks (53415)

Location:  France, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Member Since Contact Type Status
Sep 6, 2005 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: 1001bricks
  And American cheese is made by mixing together various different types of cheese,
similar to the way Americans are made by mixing together different types of people.

Can't confirm, I've never tasted American people.
 Author: wildchicken13 View Messages Posted By wildchicken13
 Posted: Dec 3, 2023 11:39
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
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 Topic: Buying
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wildchicken13 (879)

Location:  USA, Illinois
Member Since Contact Type Status
Aug 11, 2014 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: Wild Chicken
In Buying, 1001bricks writes:
  Can't confirm, I've never tasted American people.

Have you ever tasted a Canadian?
 Author: 1001bricks View Messages Posted By 1001bricks
 Posted: Dec 3, 2023 11:46
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
 Viewed: 30 times
 Topic: Buying
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1001bricks (53415)

Location:  France, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Member Since Contact Type Status
Sep 6, 2005 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: 1001bricks
In Buying, wildchicken13 writes:
  In Buying, 1001bricks writes:
  Can't confirm, I've never tasted American people.

Have you ever tasted a Canadian?

Sorry, I can't post Pamela's first name in forum.
 Author: axaday View Messages Posted By axaday
 Posted: Dec 1, 2023 21:33
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
 Viewed: 63 times
 Topic: Buying
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axaday (7527)

Location:  USA, Oklahoma
Member Since Contact Type Status
Jun 28, 2005 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: Axaday
It isn’t worth the trouble. Send it back. Smokers really need to learn that their
stuff is not welcome on Bricklink and eBay. I don’t think they notice the smell.

In Buying, MiniRoz writes:
  I received an order with several minifigs, two SW polybags, and two trans windows.
The moment I opened the mailer, I felt like I’d walked into a dive bar circa
1984. The cigarette smell was so strong that, when I put the items outside to
air out, my hands smelled like smoke after several washings. Additionally, the
clear trans parts have that yellow tobacco film.
I contacted the seller, and they told me they store their Lego in a “non-smoking”
bedroom (reminds me of peeing in a pool analogy), but that he would accept a
return once he receives the items I ship back at my expense.
1. Is there an effective way to thoroughly clean and remove odor from figs, polybags,
and parts without ruining them?
2. While there is nothing in this seller’s terms regarding cigarette smoke, are
there rules or at least a universal agreement that this should be disclosed?
3. Piggybacking on number 3, should a buyer be responsible for shipping cost
to return said stank items?

I understand that parts can be both new and wreak of smoke, but should there
not be some rule regarding this sort of thing? If I were a fishmonger and used
my back office to sort and pack new parts with my fishy fingers, I can’t imagine
any buyers would find that acceptable, but at least that smell doesn’t permeate
LEGO as much. Maybe not the best analogy because secondhand fish smell isn’t
a health hazard, but you get where I’m going.
 Author: rab1234 View Messages Posted By rab1234
 Posted: Dec 2, 2023 18:30
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
 Viewed: 58 times
 Topic: Buying
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rab1234 (2191)

Location:  USA, North Carolina
Member Since Contact Type Status
Jun 15, 2018 Contact Member Seller
Buying Privileges - OKSelling Privileges - OK
Store: Blockbusting Bricks
I’ve only had smokey bricks a couple of times, but soaking in vinegar overnight
and then washing with dawn actually worked. They’ll smell like vinegar for a
little while, but just let them air out. If you bought from a bricklink seller
though, I’d just return them and leave a negative feedback for them regardless.

In Buying, MiniRoz writes:
  I received an order with several minifigs, two SW polybags, and two trans windows.
The moment I opened the mailer, I felt like I’d walked into a dive bar circa
1984. The cigarette smell was so strong that, when I put the items outside to
air out, my hands smelled like smoke after several washings. Additionally, the
clear trans parts have that yellow tobacco film.
I contacted the seller, and they told me they store their Lego in a “non-smoking”
bedroom (reminds me of peeing in a pool analogy), but that he would accept a
return once he receives the items I ship back at my expense.
1. Is there an effective way to thoroughly clean and remove odor from figs, polybags,
and parts without ruining them?
2. While there is nothing in this seller’s terms regarding cigarette smoke, are
there rules or at least a universal agreement that this should be disclosed?
3. Piggybacking on number 3, should a buyer be responsible for shipping cost
to return said stank items?

I understand that parts can be both new and wreak of smoke, but should there
not be some rule regarding this sort of thing? If I were a fishmonger and used
my back office to sort and pack new parts with my fishy fingers, I can’t imagine
any buyers would find that acceptable, but at least that smell doesn’t permeate
LEGO as much. Maybe not the best analogy because secondhand fish smell isn’t
a health hazard, but you get where I’m going.
 Author: zzed View Messages Posted By zzed
 Posted: Dec 3, 2023 10:45
 Subject: Re: Cigarette Smoke - Try to salvage or Return?
 Viewed: 36 times
 Topic: Buying
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zzed (97)

Location:  USA, Indiana
Member Since Contact Type Status
Jun 11, 2019 Contact Member Buyer
Buying Privileges - OK
For things like cloth capes or paper instructions, I seal them in a plastic bag
with a half cup of baking soda for a week. The powder doesn't need to actually
touch the items.