I love the internet.
Just when I think I understand an issue, some intelligent, sensitive person
posts a contrary view that completely changes my frame of reference, and
convinces me that my preconceived (or ill-conceived?) opinion was wrong!

When, before, I thought it best to allow all gift certificates to "time out"
and become worthless, I now must agree with Audra's eloquent position
(below).  It really is reasonable to allow gift certificates to be redeemed
AT ANY TIME.  Think of these facts: your gift shop prices will always
continue to inflate, but a 10-year-old gift certificate will not (it is not
a zero coupon bond, after all); libraries accept overdue books decades after
they are checked out (kind of the same principle, only in reverse).

But most importantly, before Disneyland switched to a one-price admission,
an "E" ticket purchased in 1960 was good in 1975.  Since all life in
southern california revolves around disneyland, we must at least assume that
they have the right idea.  The least the museum community should do is
consider the "E Ticket Model" of full-face value redemption at any time.

If I were in charge of the gift certificate program at a small museum, I
would have the certificates nicely printed and sequentially numbered.  You
could leave the denomination blank, but only sell them in increments of $5
or $10, or whatever.  Then, when each one is sold, record the particulars in
a tracking log (certificate number, face value, date sold, validation by,
etc.).  Then simply track them as outstanding checks.  Simple.

jim carucci

-----Original Message-----
From: Audra Oliver [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Thursday, December 07, 2000 1:24 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Gift Certificates

As a consumer, I'd say you should honor a gift certificate whenever it is
presented.  After all, you've had the money in the bank earning interest.
You're not out anything by redeeming it years later.  You only gain by the
consumer's delay.  It certainly isn't a discount coupon of some sort.  I
have to say, that by stressing that the certificate was expired you'd offend
me.  You might say in a very, very friendly manner, something about them
having it for quite a while. I think you should act incredibly happy that
they were finally able to visit and redeem your certificate.

Their friend bought it.  It hasn't cost you anything to "store" their money
for however long they've had it.  Sorry listers but this response hit a
nerve with me.

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